There is reason for optimism. There is cause for hope. Cooler heads and a downtown ESC to start the 2015 NBA season can still prevail.

No, I am not high on Adrianne Maloofs’ hairspray fumes.

The respective parties left Orlando with a framework to a deal. When the meat was added to the bone, the Maloofs decided to pick it apart with their cosmetic veneers.

Unfortunately, their artificial choppers and ample bellies were not invited to the dinner table.

Bad analogies aside, this whole ESC negotiation was inherently flawed from the outset, and not just because George was a disheveled participant.

One self-interested party, the NBA, negotiating on behalf of another self-interested party, the Maloofs, is rife with potential for conflict. To overcome the inevitable contention in order for a deal to be struck, the subordinated party should be granted opportunity to voice any, and all, displeasure.

The Maloofs’ displeasure, and proposed counter terms, however insanely or deal-breakingly deemed, went disregarded for weeks. Ultimately, their revised conditions were indirectly dismissed in the form of a poorly timed, poorly conceived public letter from Mayor Johnson.

This much we know as fact. And this is when the deal went kaplooey.

There is good faith negotiation. There is bad faith negotiation. And then there is fair attempt at negotiation that never transpired because your email got lost in cyberspace, and because your cornered response got lost in a political paper shuffle.

When the NBA owners broached a new deal with NBA players, and before settling on the lesser side of an even revenue split, they asked for elimination of all guarantee contracts and 62% of all basketball dollars! Reduction of player BRI (basketball related income) from 57% to 38% was ridiculously proposed to compensate owners for millions in alleged losses. Insane and deal-breaking at the outset, the owners came to their senses, ratified a hard-fought compromise, and cast greedy eye to more palatable financial future.

Uninvited to this prolonged mess, George was still paying attention.

Well, maybe…

When it comes to ESC tenancy, or pursuit of sashed loveliness, ask and ye shall receive. Or not. But ask nonetheless. Just be willing to bear the consequences for an unabashed display of self-interest, including public backlash from a feverish, yet forgiving fan base, as last night’s attendance tally vs. OKC attests, or back turn from Miss Tennessee proves.

Arggghh.

As Commissioner Stern would say, life is a negotiation.

More significantly, negotiation, life is.

Anyways, I think I speak for everyone in this virtual realm when I say we just want a shiny new downtown ESC for our Kings for the next 30 years, and a suitable venue to win multiple NBA championships.

Is that too much to ask, less the multiple titles part?

No. More precisely, NOOOOOOO!!!!!!!

We are the best fans in the NBA, and deserving of a state of the art facility with ample corridor width and abundant self-flushing urinals. And a team that doesn’t 20-43 suck!

A consistent winner is GM Petrie’s job, Coach Smart’s hyperactive responsibility, and a 2012-2013 roster’s collective ambition.

Until then, here’s how Mayor Johnsons delivers on a new ESC, once and for all:

Animosity, Shamnosity.

It is easy to be petty, to distrust, to shun. It is easy to hold a grudge. It is easy to say, f*ck you Maloofs, you suck elephant testicles. It is easy to hate.

Hate is for losers.

I would appeal to the Maloofs higher nature, to their noble spirit that contradicts the Sin City lifestyle. I think Mayor Johnson will too.

George is not a bad guy, after all. Just ask his Mom.

Eliminate the Middle Man.

This deal never had a snowballs chance in Hades until the two parties sat down together and hashed out the particulars, eye to eye, and principal to principal. The NBA always was a facilitator in all of this, never more than an instigator and financier towards hopeful deal. The Maloofs always had the final say on whether this deal was a ‘go’ or not. They exercised their right to say ‘not so fast’.

Deal? Arms half-court raised? Shovelers to be shoveling? Mortars to be mortaring?

Psyche, construction dudes!

Mayor Johnson miscalculated when he thought a deal was done. He assumed a deal with the NBA equated into a deal with the Kings. He celebrated prematurely. He tried to strong-arm the Maloofs into signing upon the dotted line. It backfired. He skipped a major step along the path to a new ESC, an agreeable partner without reservation.

Mayor Johnson learned the Maloofs can change their mind too. But that’s OK, man. It means their minds can be changed again; this time to mutual benefit.

We Love You (sort of).

George, Gavin and Joe want to be loved. Don’t we all? I do. The Maloofs are unloved and despised by a fringe component of passionate Kings fans, all navigating these boards, apparently. The haters are always the loudest. They are also the minority, again as the OKC attendance tally suggests.

Still, the love does not exist in Anaheim. It exists here. Sacramento loves you, George.

Take off your sports coat, George, kick off your studded loafers, the masseuse is on her way. She’s gorgeous and talented in multitude of ways. Let her massage your neck, and more. She’ll get rid of the ESC stress, the StR angst, and the knot in your neck. That feels nice, right? Its gonna be OK, George. Let’s order a bottle of champagne, let’s envision the pleasures that await…

Let me leave you two lovebirds alone.

Before I leave, sign here.

You get the idea. George wants to feel wanted. He needs to feel wanted. Do what it takes, Mayor Johnson, including the escort section of the Las Vegas telephone book. /humor

The Illusion of Negotiation.

Sometimes all you have to do is listen. Just ask your girlfriend, or your blow-up doll. /humor

I am not so sure the Maloofs were ever completely heard during this ESC negotiation process. In other words, the failure to consummate a deal could lie primarily in the absence of meaningful dialog between the city and the owners.

That doesn’t mean Mayor Johnson needed to agree, or concede to their demands. It means he needed to acknowledge their concerns, the inherent risk in any debt obligation, and alleviate hesitancy with best case, worse case, and most likely revenue projections, all the while seeking common ground.

Is this not due diligence among prudent participants?

Simply registering your concerns entering into a $67 million dollar obligation could mitigate significant obstacles to a long-term partnership.

Just listen, and nod your head. Again, reference your gal pal, real or imagined. She will love you for it, as will George.

Dollars Equals Status.

$67 million dollars is not chump change, fronted or out of pocket. $67 million plus interest is a future obligation, whether or not ticket revenue covers the periodic payment due. There is an opportunity cost, as well. In other words, does the added cost of debt justify the prospective additional revenue less PBP net receipts?

Apparently, it doesn’t. Or this post would not be about ESC frustrations. It would be about our favorable tanking efforts, the struggles of Tyreke, or other pertinent on court issues.

Instead the pertinent question is this:

Does the current revenue to the Maloofs from Power Balance Pavilion exceed the prospective revenue, less the debt coverage required of the new ESC?

If it does, they are not signing. That is all there is to it. Convince them otherwise, Mayor Johnson.

Alternately, if the Maloofs add more upfront towards the contribution of the new ESC, can they reasonably anticipate a greater return than presently forecast?

This is not about your inferiority complex to larger markets, or your lingering animosity to silver spooned inheritors, Kings fans. This is about dollars and cents. Make ‘em add up, Mayor Johnson. Then, the Maloofs will sign.

Moreover, do not hesitate to convey that the more the Maloofs offer upfront, in excess of $67 million (only 18% of new ESC costs), the settlement period on a stock sale is three business days, by the way, the more they establish themselves as more than just tenants, and entitled to be treated accordingly.

If you want real revenue, then pay to play.

WWDTD (What Would Donald Trump Do)?

I am over the Maloofs are broke-as-joke jokes. Boring. Unimaginative. Played out. Next person who cracks a 2% joke must include copy of their bank statement.

Guess what? Adversity is part of life. It’s not what happens to you that counts, its how you respond as a result.

I have been fired, dumped, rejected and punched in the face. I have dealt with more bullshit than all my friends, and I have a few. I am also a condo owner, a fast car owner, and moving/semi-retiring to Honolulu in about ten days. I date woman that look like Rihanna and Miranda Kerr, sometimes in the span of one weekend.

Not bragging, just sayin’… adversity is an opportunity in disguise.

Fair enough, the Maloofs may be nearly broke, but they gave away cool sh*t last night!!!

I believe George just wants to do right. Recoup his losses. Proceed with caution. Make his dead father proud. And this includes a possible long-term union with the city of Sacramento.

I have heard of another guy named Donald Trump that was once on the verge of bankruptcy, buried in debt and bad investments, but he never succumbed to the reality of his circumstances. He envisioned a more prosperous future. His actions were guided by a persistent vision of success and abundance.

If I were Mayor Johnson, I would nudge George towards similar vision, vibrant and lucrative.

Ask yourself, George, what would Donald do?

No, George, not that Donald...

Go Donald! Go KJ! Go ESC!

You are not dead yet.

I am not going to waste anytime offending the masses.

There has been a lot of stale bullsh*t around here lately, with coarse, mindless venom directed towards Maloofs, ad nausea.

Jealousy, excess hostility, and pettiness to boot.

Congrats on that, StR.

I think collectively we are better than that.

Scorn and vulgarity could be laced, balanced, even outweighed with substance, or at least an honest attempt made. Deconstructive venting could be offset with constructive contribution, to the degree that personal insight allows. Or you could just type “F*ck the Maloofs” and wait for your post to turn green.

(Toe fungus, mold and sewer scum are green in color too.)

I don’t like the color green, much. I like blue. And burnt orange. And burgundy. More to the point, I’d rather be honest in feeling and my appraisal, irrespective of consensus view.

The following represents example:

If you look at the Feasibility Concern PDF, and here it is, in all its mundane glory, and read between the lines, the Maloofs want the ESC to open by 2015, approximately two and half years from now.

They raise a list of concerns, rational or not, that would threaten target date from being met. This is a devil’s advocate approach, definitively, anticipating anything and everything that could possibly go wrong. I don’t like this pessimistic outlook, since I am an optimist by nature, but its their right to envision potential obstacles.

The Maloofs want these concerns addressed, point by (semi-irrational) point, and I would imagine that is the impetus behind Mayor Johnson red-eyeing it to NYC.

Attorneys are eager to get in the mix too, and pursue ulterior motive to create billable hours, which is to say, they want to muddy the waters to justify their fees and resultant standoff. This is counsel heeded for better or worse, and the Maloofs bear the burden for adherence to said counsel and any subsequent public scorn.

Yet if I was putting up $73.25 million dollars, and anticipated significant increase in revenue, I would want as much of a guarantee as possible that I would start to realize that increase in revenue by the proposed completion date, not 2016, 2017, or ever at all.

(Construction projects have been known to have been delayed. Even a guy named Burkle can likely attest to this fact.)

The pre-development costs are another issue, of course, but I don’t blame the Maloofs for not wanting to pay. I blame them for effectively hand-shaking in the first place, and not making their true feelings and formal positions known sooner.

But previously or now, if the deal does not offer reasonable ROI on $73.25 million dollars, that is $73,250,000 dollars, per their dubious estimation, then it is their right to make a fuss, and it is their right to seek more advantageous terms.

But that doesn’t mean the Maloofs want, or expect, to be in Anaheim in 2013.

If they are denied favorable concessions, which is the likely course of action, at least they tried. Then they reassess and move forward, whichever direction that may be.

My bet is that they concede, cooperate, and call an awkward half-court ESC announcement, as sequel to an awkward half-court ESC announcement.

Until then, none of this drama means they are implicitly looking to flee south. It means they seek a sweeter deal, fewer obligations and better assurances, and an increase in projected revenue or equity ownership in the ESC, above and beyond naming rights revenue. Whether they are justified to seek a 5% profit margin or a 20% margin is yet another issue, but it is their right to aspire to maximum return.

I may emphasize this is not wishful thinking in my estimation, but reasonable conclusion based on preponderance of circumstances.

(They have to know by now they can neither afford cost nor gain sentiment of peers to move to Mickey Mouse Land. The best they can do is ruffle feathers and seek improved non-material terms. It is a desperate place to be, perhaps, but you play the hand you are dealt, or the hand you dealt to yourself.)

I don’t like the Maloofs, but I empathize with their position: down on their luck, seeking a financial and professional comeback. Lacking in resources, allies, and respect, and wondering what Daddy would do in their shoes, if alive, and not tossing and turning six feet below.

Affliction t-shirts, dumb commercials, tinted hair tips, deceptive dealings and misguided business maneuvering aside, I perceive that the Maloofs have legitimate ESC contentions, having been excluded from the pre-Orlando negotiations.

Moreover, I believe the Maloofs love this team, have a passion for this team, like we do, and genuinely want to witness return to prominence while retaining ownership and court side seats. They acquiesced to acquisition of John Salmons, Chuck Hayes and Travis Outlaw within the last 10 months. Effectively, they agreed to pay $51 million dollars in future salary to a three-headed ball-fumbling monster, a Kenny Thomas cubed and reincarnated. That has to count for something, if just pity, even amongst the most callous of critics.

Regardless, the city and the NBA has protected their own interest throughout this ESC process. Our klutzy clan is just doing same, in their own indomitable style.

George, Joe and Gavin have f*cked up in the past, but that doesn’t mean they can’t try their damnedest to do right today. The Maloofs may have lost their fortune, but their chutzpah remains.

Based on the opening salvo to this post, long live chutzpah.

And long live the Kings in Sacramento, and to a future ESC built on bricks, mortar, and the chutzpah of all those contributory towards its realization.

Psst, George, are you in?

When a rookie enters the NBA, it is typically easy to identify his area for growth. For DeMarcus, it was conditioning and attitude. For Tyreke, it was his jumper and an optimal position. For Jimmer, it is adjusting to the speed of the game and a diminished, playmaking role.

Identifying an area for improvement for Isaiah Thomas proves somewhat more challenging.

As a Kings fan, this is genuine cause for excitement.

If I were to offer quick summation of Isaiah Thomas' strengths and weaknesses, the admittedly bias tally would look like this:

Plusses:

* Speed

* Leadership

* Confidence

* Passing

* Shooting range (i.e. effortless 3-point stroke.)

* Lefty (i.e. unorthodox style proves uncustomary to defenders)

* Pesky Defender (on-ball, off-ball)

* Midrange Game (i.e. pull-up jumper, one-footer floater)

Minuses:

* Size

The positives outweigh the negatives 8 to 1, but it gets even better, long-suffering Kings fans. The sole negative is a strength in disguise.

Being limited in stature, and according to Draft Express, Isaiah measured out at 5’8" and ¾ without shoes, or listed at 5’10" with shoes, which makes him the second shortest player ever drafted into the NBA throughout their measurement history (about 20 years, second only to Nate Robinson who measured one inch shorter), and would seem to be serious impediment to long-term success.

Yet lack of height is a detriment only when it is not compensated through favorably comparable strength, which enables a player to his hold position defensively, beat a player to ideal spot on both ends, play through contact, including the nudges and shoves that throw a lesser player off balance (see Pooh Jeter).

A skilled player that happens to be small, but sturdy in stature has a lower center of gravity, can turn the corner more readily on relatively slow-footed ‘bigs’, split double teams with less space needed, and find passing angles amid outstretched limbs with more regularity.

In short, being short in stature is an invitation to create havoc all over the court, if you can command your space amidst the tallest of timber.

In four games as a new starting PG, Isaiah Thomas is staking his claim with authority (19.5 PPG, 6.5 assists, 4 rebounds, 51% FGs, and only 2.25 TOs in 34.5 MPG).

Diminutive in size, yet sizable in impact.

So there you have it. Lack of height is a strength in camouflage. Hence, Isaiah Thomas has no weakness.

New York has Linsanity. Sacramento has….Thomawesomeness?!? (Hey, they can’t all be gems.)

OK, wait, give me a break Blob, quit being an unapologetic homer…Isaiah is shooting 41%, and the team is 1-3 with him as a starter.

Aren’t you going overboard in your unadulterated praise?

Look, a player with special ability jumps off the TV screen. (At least it does mine, revealing of truth and wisdom. I can’t speak for yours, and you know who you are :p)

Isaiah looks ready to make an impact before he checks into the game. The look on his face definitively says "Put me in the game, coach. No, seriously. Put me in. What are you waiting for? Uh, like now, duh.". Isaiah seems perpetually happy. If you were in a place you knew you belonged, knew you could excel, knew you could succeed to considerable effect, you’d be apt to smile too.

Isaiah had the distinct look of a legitimate NBA player since his clutch play as a Washington Husky, during casual pick-up games during the extended lockout, including the Bench Mob Classic. The last four games as a starter are a continuation of the rationally expected.

Ultimately, lack of height is not a deterrent. It is a chip on the shoulder to spur achievement.

The question thus becomes: How good great can Isaiah Thomas be?

Isaiah Thomas reminds me of Denver Nugget Ty Lawson. Bad-ass and ready to bring it. A sense of belonging, a commitment to force tempo, and no hesitancy to take (and make) a big shot. Able to deliver, and leave defenders grasping at air.

Ty Lawson is the starting PG of a plus .500 team. He has a PER of 18.2. He averages 15/6/3 on 47% shooting.

Can Isaiah be this good someday? Or better? I think he can.

Again, according to Draft Express, Lawson and Thomas are comparable physically and athletically.

At first, the comparison seems slanted unfavorably. Ty Lawson measures 2 inches taller (5’10".25 vs. 6’0".25). But guess what, long-suffering Kings fans? Isaiah has a wingspan 1 inch greater than Ty Lawson (6.1".75 vs. 6’0".75) Isaiah ranks better in agility (10.49 vs. 10.98), and in terms of speed they are virtually even (full court sprint: 3.14 seconds vs. 3.12 seconds). Isaiah concedes nothing to Lawson in any other strength or hops measure.

The conclusion is obvious. There is nothing physically or athletically to prevent Isaiah from being a player as accomplished as Ty Lawson.

Next question: How does this happen?

(1) Continue to nurture advantageous relationship with Coach Smart.

Gaining continued alliance with head coach will pay immeasurable dividends. Heeding words of the man who decides playing time will work to your favor, assuring minutes upon the court to spur growth for balance of the season, whether in victory or defeat. Do best to execute strategy, balancing shot distribution fairly, and playing time will be yours.

(2) Improve shooting percentage over 40%.

Isaiah has the quickness to get himself open for looks. His penetration, crossover and step back are tough to defend against most formidable of opponents. Now, make your shots at slightly higher rate. Isaiah has picture perfect form on his jumper. He has a smooth release, and excellent balance. This bodes well to an elevated shooting percentage near 45% FGs with increased playing time, rookie wall withstanding.

(3) Slow down the best guards in the league.

Isaiah likes to pick up near half-court. He likes to get physical. He likes to fight through picks. Keep doing this. Use your strength, quickness and footwork to harass non-stop.

Cue the post-game ice bath.

(4) Involve as many of your teammates as much as possible.

The Kings have a roster of underachievers not named Tyreke, DeMarcus or Marcus. The more that Isaiah can do to generate easy baskets for struggling teammates, the more he can jump start a subset of teammates who need facilitated assistance.

How good great can Isaiah Thomas be?

As good great as a 5' 8" and ¾ player without an identifiable weakness can be.

P.S. Jimmer rules.

Eight games into a new season and 3-5 record, and our Kings team is at a mini-crossroads, with a new head coach, the loss of a front court starter for 3 to 4 weeks (12 to 15 games), and ball movement that smells like dirty diapers marinated in motor oil and pickle juice.

OK, maybe slightly worse.

The head coach of the Heat does something smart. So does Doc Rivers, the head coach of the Celtics.

To best ensure stability, scoring punch, and 48 Minutes of Hell, or at least mildly unpleasant conditions for daunted opponent, one of the (loosely named) Big Three is on the court at all times. In particular, rarely do LeBron or Wade sit on the bench simultaneously. It is also unusual to see Ray Allen, Rondo and Pierce rest at once (I exclude KG from this trio because he is more of a defensive presence than offensive priority at this stage of his career.)

As Coach Smart strategizes a player rotation to improve spacing, freedom and ball movement, and as he strives to maximize available talent and compensate for the loss of Chuck Hayes, we can anticipate Smart to at least mimic this proven strategy with his own version of the Big Three.

One of Tyreke, Marcus or DeMarcus will be on the court at all times.

And they will all continue to start.

Coach Smart wants to create a family atmosphere. There would be no better way to do the opposite, to create tension and risk alienation, than to tell the Godfather to do the dishes.

Marcus Thornton is not giving up his starting spot to a rookie.

Not only is Jimmer undeserving and unprepared, and yet to have a break out game, Marcus has been the best and most consistent professional on the team so far (16th in the NBA in scoring at 19.4 PPG, 6th among guards; 26.3 PPG on 52% shooting in our 3 wins).

Moreover, Marcus can continue to start while being the focal point of the second unit.

There is a misperception floating around that to improve bench scoring requires a team to bring one of its most capable scorers off the bench.

Instead, Coach Smart will substitute early, and stagger the break times for Tyreke and Marcus, while being sensitive and responsive to slow team starts.

It can work like this: Jimmer enters at the 5:00 remaining mark in the 1st quarter. Marcus sits. Marcus rests for the next 7:00 minutes of game and substitutes back in at the 10:00 remaining mark of the 2nd quarter for Tyreke.

As a result, Marcus is on the floor for almost all of the 2nd quarter, together with back-ups along the front court. He becomes the primary scoring option to help to prevent against scoring lulls.

Interchange Tyreke and Marcus if you like, depending on match-up advantages, and who has the hot hand, but the strategy remains. Tyreke and Marcus rarely, if ever, sit simultaneously. Primary back-ups play (almost always) with a primary scorer.

In this example, Marcus plays 17 minutes in the half, which equals on prorated basis his 35 minute per game average. Tyreke checks in late in the second quarter to accumulate same number of minutes. Jimmer logs one 12-minute first half stint, equivalent on prorated basis to his 25 minute per game average.

Smart basketball in the Smart Era.

What else can we expect with a new coach at the helm, and with a front court in flux? There’s been a lot underperformance at the ‘3’, ‘4’, and ‘5’ positions so far. Is more instability and inferior production destined? Or will one or more than one player emerge to provide winning play?

First, a quick summary analysis with a few ghastly stats included:

DeMarcus is shooting 40%, although he is coming off two consecutive strong games (17 out of last 30 FGs). He has 5 assists against 19 TOs. His target ratio of 1 to 1 as evidence of improved ball handling decisions, is instead 1 to 4. He leads the NBA in fouls. A foul magnet last year, DeMarcus is fouling more often so far this year, up from 4.1 FPG to 4.9 FPG. Cousins has emerged as a beast on the boards, with his slimmed down physique allowing him to react and snag with ferocity, tallying boards with Kevin Love-like aplomb.

JJ Hickson is shooting 37%. His defense has been poor, barring an occasional swat. He lets his man score easily, rarely sends a message he intends to provide resistance, as evidenced by a foul rate of 1.5 FPG. His rebounding has been terrific. At 6.9 RPG, he doubles the rebound total of JT, a supposed board hog. JJ Hickson’s activity level has been impressive. His efficiency level has been just the opposite.

John Salmon has been a disaster. He’s playing out of position, and looks to have lost half of a step from his former King days. Of all players in the NBA playing more than 25 minutes per game, Salmons has the 6th worst PER (player efficiency rating) in the NBA at 8.14. Only Corey Maggette, Jameer Nelson, Stephen Jackson, Michael Beasley and Marco Belinelli have performed worse. ‘Nuff said.

JT has been limited by opportunity and his own skill level. Positively, he seems to have improved his inclination to give away the ball and foul excessively. Ideally suited as 4th big off the bench (10 to 15 minutes), he will be thrust into role of 3rd big (20 to 25 minutes) for the next month. He must perform in competitive stretches, not just garbage time. In 3 wins, JT has been invisible, scoring 2 points and 3 boards on 37% shooting.

What does Coach Smart do with this motley mix of forwards and centers and early season underachievers?

(1) He wipes the slate clean.

DeMarcus and the Grim Reaper of Coaching could no longer co-exist. Travis Outlaw and Donte Greene are two players who especially need to push the reset button on their recent play. A new coach could be catalyst to spark turnaround.

Coach Smart made it a point to emphasize each player would be evaluated anew, with past lapses and transgressions dismissed. He can only hope several players capitalize on second and third chances they are granted to carve meaningful minutes and advance their careers.

If DeMarcus and Donte were at all hindered by a coach that lost belief, faith and patience in them, that obstacle no longer stands in their way.

Coach Smart can also anticipate a statistical reversion to the mean and beyond, for individuals and the team, and that by installing a functional offense that grants freedom and focus, shooting percentages will rise. His players will be inspired to play with energy and hustle that he imparts through enthusiastic guidance.

(2) He juggles his defensive style of play to avoid front line foul trouble.

Perhaps the biggest early challenge facing Coach Smart will be to defend along the frontline without his best post defender, and without getting into major foul trouble midway through the 3rd quarter.

Until Hayes gets healthy, his options are limited to a chronic fouler (Cousins), a bad defender (JJ Hickson), a hyperactive defender who provides zero help defense (JT), and a SG trying to defend SFs (Salmons).

Coach Smart can institute a zone defense to minimize fouls against his team, and double the post to try to slow the toughest post scorers on the schedule this month (Dirk, Al Jefferson, LeMarcus Aldridge, Dwight Howard).

More energy and hustle will compensate for the fundamental shortcomings, but interior defense has to be at the top of his list of potential issues.

(3) He makes Donte Greene his new starting ‘3’.

John Salmons was an acquisition spurred by the former coach and his preference for veteran performers, even those with tendency to monopolize possessions, and coming off his worst NBA season.

Coach Smart has no such allegiance to John. Patience for improved play will not be infinite, nor at the current pace, until February.

Enter Donte.

Unlike Salmons, Donte has the size to defend small forwards. He could benefit from playing around three scorers in the starting line-up, allowing him to concentrate on defense, open looks and simple passes.

Donte gets garbage points in the paint, fills the lane on break, catches and finishes alley oops.

Unfortunately, he has shown no ball handling ability, rebounding skills, or scoring prowess between 3 point line and a dunk. He’s mistake prone and antsy under pressure.

And yet, if he was ever going to develop into a real NBA player, the firing of Paul Westphal may be the best thing that ever happened to the career of Donte Greene.

If Coach Smart can turn Donte into a legitimate performer, then 21 point comebacks, a hug from DeMarcus to his coach, a genuinely happy locker room, and a playoff run in 2012 will be just the "tip of the iceberg" as the Smart Era unfolds.

Out of my bed, sensual and curvy stranger. The NBA is back. Back-to-back-to-back-to-back-to-back. Call you later, or text you, or not. Coffee. Hoops. Joy. Sobriety returns, and so does my favorite spectator sport.

As the female underwear wearing, toupee shamelessly sporting Marv Albert would say…YES!!!!!

The Celtics play awesome defense. They have a no-frills, no-flash PG who loves to defend, to pass.

Unlikeable? Roger that. Bad ass? Rondo that (31 points, 13 assists, 5 steals).

The Celtics have proven veterans at every position on the floor. Their back-up power forward (Brandon Bass) played a better game today in his first game as a Celtic (9 for 13 FGs, 20 points, 11 boards in 28 minutes) than Jason Thompson has ever played in 3 NBA seasons.

Their head coach is a no-nonsense, excuse-free sideline warrior. Coach Doc Rivers glistens on the sideline, vicariously playing the game in a suit and tie.

As a basketball purist for 25 years, I love it. The Boston Celtics don’t make excuses, with Paul Pierce incapacitated. Instead they compete intensely. They do the game of basketball proud. Tommy Heinsohn has every right to bleed green.

The Celtics are everything the Sacramento Kings are not. The Celtics are everything the Kings aspire to be. The Celtics are winners. The Kings are losers, until a new season, dawning in 24 hours, proves otherwise.The Kings enter the new season as the anti-Celtics.

Good luck.

The Kings don’t defend. They don’t take pride on their home court. They don’t make the extra pass. Their head coach bemoans the shortened time period to prepare. He wears age-inappropriate facial hair. He tempts self-fulfilling prophecy by harping upon the shortened training camp.

Get over it, coach. All teams are on an even, disadvantaged playing field.

And besides, Chuck Hayes’ ticker is just fine.

How many games can a team win when it presents itself as the polar opposite of the Celtics, figurative and banner-hanging champions to their core, despite hard fought loss versus the Knicks today 104-106?

We get our first serious clue tomorrow at 7:00 PST.

Time to rock n’ roll, my fellow Jimmer-manics.

We are not the Celtics. Yet, blessedly, on a day blessings are counted, there is more than one way to skin a cat.

Merry X-Mas, StR.com. Let’s win.

In my Blobbed estimation, the Kings will do so 34 times in 66 tries. Not bad. Playoffs here we come.

The wins will come, despite our blundering play caller, and our green-free jerseys. Imagine the possibilities if Doc was at the helm (drool).

The Hayes (Domino) Effect.

David Thorpe, respected ESPN analyst, and the guy who helped a scrawny late first round draft pick transform his game into a 20+ per game scorer (Kevin Martin), said this recently:

In Sacramento Kings history, I'd rank the acquisition of Chuck Hayes as perhaps the smartest move they've ever made.

That’s high praise, no?

Especially considering this is the same team that traded for Mitch Richmond, Chris Webber, Mike Bibby, signed Vlade Divac, drafted Peja Stojakovic, and that said player has modest career averages of 4.5 points and 6 rebounds in 6 seasons.

The esteemed regard with which Chuck Hayes is held by basketball personnel can be further gleaned through visceral reaction when Chuck’s deal was abruptly voided a week ago:

"(The team) realized (in one week of training camp) what an important and respected person Chuck Hayes is." – Coach Westphal.

"We're not going to be able to replace him. He was one of the best defensive frontcourt players in the league and a really unique player we thought would facilitate some offense…it's not going to be the same (without him)." – GM Geoff Petrie

Prayers have been answered. Distressed doctors shunned. Chuck Hayes is back. He is bringing sexy back, minus the sexy. Chuck does not play above the rim, possess an indefensible half hook, or launch wet jumpers from 20 feet.

He just helps you win games, if you are into that sorta thing.

Rejoice. Celebrate. Eggnog inebriate.

Chuckwagon is a more skilled, savvy, experienced version of former King Jon Brockman. Undersized, physical and heady, Hayes will earn his $22.4 million over 4 years in more ways than field goals converted.

I noticed today that the Celtics set amazing picks, led by Kevin Garnett and Jermaine O’Neal. Setting an effective pick is a painful art, a thankless job, and a winner’s weapon. Angles, timing, width and strength are components of a prudent pick-setter. JT and Cousins would rather complain to the refs and commit turnovers, respectively.

Enter a heart-healthy Chuck Hayes.

Pick executed. Marcus Thornton and Jimmer are unguarded as result. Clean looks from 3 point land and in incur. Points follow. Points are good.

The Chuck Hayes effect, aka the domino effect, manifests.

Notice to David Lee, Pau Gasol, LeMarcus Aldridge, Blake Griffin, et al: A red carpet path to the hoop shall not be granted when you play the purple and black.

Sweet post position refused. Deep catches deferred. Foul trouble to JJ and DeMarcus averted. Easy points to opponent refused!

Happy, happy. Joy, joy. Lakers lose! Lakers lose (87-88)!

More presents present themselves:

Carving space in the paint by Chuck Hayes does not mean every rebound falls to his eager mitts.

Yet it does allow smaller teammates to collapse into the paint to gain possession. Jimmer, Tyreke and MT23 will get their hands on more loose balls because Chuck Hayes makes his presence known.

Fast breaks triggered. Dunkage delivered. Layups done.

More break-outs, not blemishes. But oops, scoops, rallies, and satisfying victories in 2012.

Interior passes made adeptly. Instruction barked unabashedly. Inspiration offered consistently.

We have the glitter (Marcus, Tyreke, Jimmer, DeMarcus).

We needed the glue.

We landed the glue, until 2016. His name is Chuck.

Glue plus glitter equals 34 wins, starting tomorrow.

Merry X-Mas to all Kings fans, except that one guy.

• If it is possible to miss a player that never played one game for the team, I miss Chuck Hayes.
• DeMarcus treats the basketball like a red-headed step child.
• Chuck would have brought the unique ability of a player along the Kings front-line who actually values the basketball.
  
• Memo to Tyreke Evans: Its OK to have fun while playing. You don't have to pretend you are on your way to get a root canal by Dr. Jim Gray.
• Memo to Klay Thompson: I have seen Kevin Martin play basketball. You are no Kevin Martin.
• Chuckwagon had a 2:1 assist to turnover ratio last year. Our front line had 5 assists and 15 TOs tonight, or a 1:3 ratio.
• If there is such thing as a moral win, the Dubs scored one. They hung tough without Stephan Curry.
• Get well, Chuck. Find the best heart doctor out there. Heal, then let's deal.
  
• If there is such a thing as a moral loss, score one for the Kings. Sloppy. Porous. Disjointed.
  
• We have a player who swings between both forward spots and camps out at the 3-point line. His name is Donte Greene. Why did we waste $12 million dollars on Travis Outlaw? What was Geoff thinking?
  
• Travis Outlaw is a bad basketball player. He has poor balance. He overruns plays. He camps out at the three point line when easier shots are available. He is not what this team needs.
  
• Our two best players (Reke and Cousins) had 16 TOs? Rust or not, inexcusable. Improved efficiency from high usage players is imperative if this season is not to be a repeat of last. That kind of carelessness wins zero games once it counts.
• I am 100% opposed to a philosophy of a head coach who rewards the player who played the best in previous game (Jimmer) by demoting him to the bench because he wants to experiment with a 2nd round pick (Honeycutt) as his starter in the last pre-season game.
• Coaches may not think starting is important. Players do.
• An offense that includes zero designed plays to get shots for Jimmer needs immediate tweaking.
• Lose the goatee, Coach Westphal.
• Marcus Thornton is underpaid.
• For a high usage player, JJ Hickson showed discerning shot selection, 11 unforced FGAs in 30 minutes.
• JJ Hickson will not make the all-defensive team in 2011-12.
• After getting out-rebounded by the Dubs again, the one-year contract offer to Sammy D just increased by 250K.
• The amount of increase is 250K more than I'd offer.
• It was not pretty tonight but we won, and...
  
• It's OK, we have Hasaan Whiteside.
• It's OK, we have John Salmons.
• It's OK, we just gave $12 million dollars to one of the worst players in the NBA.
• It's OK, our head coach sports odd looking facial hair.
• It's OK, the Lakers have Josh McRoberts.
• It's OK, Marcus Thornton is open.
• BREAKING! Donte Greene just called his agent.
• BREAKING! Donte Greene just fired his agent.
• BREAKING! Donte Greene just hired the agent of Travis Outlaw.
  
• Tyler Honeycutt and Isaiah Thomas are terrific second round draft picks.
• A terrific second draft pick does not mean you are ready for rotation minutes. But it might.
  
• Isaiah Thomas is fearless. Jason Thompson should hang out with Isaiah Thomas.
• The Kings currently have three star level players. When two out of three play well, we have a good chance to win. When all three play well, we can beat any team in the NBA. When only one plays well, we witness the type of game we saw tonight.
• FREE Adrian (Oliver)!
• Warning to KDT (Kings Dance Team): Stay away from Monta Ellis. No really, stay away.
• Unless he can introduce you to Stephan. (Meow, soooo dreamy. Wait! What! Who said that?!?)
  
• The Kings played their first home basketball game tonight in 8 months, when permanent departure seemed imminent.
  
• The NBA is back. Life is good.
  
• So is an electric razor, Coach Westphal.

For all the negative sentiment they have recently received, let's give credit where credit is due.

Yesterday's news, via twitter of Jason Jones, that the Kings are in hot pursuit of Andrei Kirilenko, is a pleasant surprise, whether or not AK47 desires to make Sacramento his new home, or ultimately dismisses the Kings in favor of a more established or lucrative NBA destination.

But there is a larger implication in play than the Kings desire to return to competitive respectability.

The Maloofs are not insufferable brats, after all.

It has been easy in the last 6 to 12 months to make wise cracks about Joe, George and Gavin, their flawed and failed business dealings, their sneaky motives and affinity for Mickey Mouse land, their $5000 bottles of wine, their tacky wardrobes, their foot-in-mouth media quotes, their inherited and squandered wealth.

Admittedly, I have been first to chuckle.

And perhaps, now, in the spirit of the holiday season, and the desire to let bygones be gone, it is appropriate for Kings fans to be little less snarky, and a little more conciliatory.

Let me be the first to volunteer to make nice.

I didn't think Joe, George and Gavin would be willing to spend more than the $53.3 million they spent over the last 24 hours. They have committed formally to a 4-year deal with 28-year old forward Chuck Hayes (21.3 million total), and a 4 year deal with 23-year old guard Marcus Thornton (~$32 million total).

By analysis of most astute NBA observers, this will turn out to be money well spent, through subsequent individual achievement and contribution to team success.

The estimated $13.3 million in dollars outlaid for 2011-2012 ($53.3 total / 4 years), which could be greater if the contracts are front-loaded versus evenly weighted, takes the Kings close to the 80% spending floor of $58 million cap, or $46.4 million.

Prior to the signing MT23 and Chuckwagon, the Kings had a salary obligation of $31.75 million. Add to this total the $13.3 million ($31.75 + 13.3 = $45.05), and the Kings are very close to the required spending floor.

Any shortfall to the minimum, estimated currently at just $1.35 million, would be split evenly among the players on year-end roster, per terms of the new CBA agreement.

In other words, in one fell free-agent signing swoop, the Kings satisfied their spending obligation. And if so inclined, the Maloofs could close their checkbook for the remainder of the forthcoming 66-game NBA season.

And based on their well-publicized financial woes, I figured they would.

I thought the Kings were done throwing cash at significant talent, and as such, crossed Andrei Kirilenko off the top of my wish list.

But neither Geoff Petrie, nor the Maloofs, are done wishing. They are not done strategizing or pursuing. They are not done trying to make their team better.

Upon this realization and as devoted Kings fan for over 20 years, I emphatically declare, ‘right on’.

I have concerns about his passion and toughness (he missed games in Moscow recently because of a broken nose), but I am still a serious fan of Andrei Kirilenko.

As a 6’10", lean and quick 30 year old, AK47 has eye-opening agility and hops, impressive coordination and deceptive reaction time. There is no denying his talent, and his potential to be a terrific complementary fit to our collection of scorers.

Jimmer, JJ Hickson, Tyreke, Marcus and Big Cuz would welcome a new teammate that does not consume shots they would prefer to confidently launch. They would further embrace a new teammate that would forgive their defensive lapses with immediate assistance.

Kirilenko might be the best off the ball defender in the NBA not named Dwight Howard. He possesses incredible tenacity as an on-the-ball defender too. He fills the lane on the fast break like a gazelle chasing down the tastiest of wild beasts.

AK47 possesses a PER (player efficiency rating) differential of 6.7, qualifying for 27th best in the NBA last season. This statistic is significant because it separates the wheat from the chaff, so to speak, and sorts NBA players close to a general consensus of perceived impact on the floor.

In other words, PER differential over the course of a season effectively combines contribution made on both ends of the court. It results in a list of NBA players sorted as to how they actually help you (or not) to win ball games.

What more could a stat geek want?

Statistics are imperfect, to be sure, but this ranking generally supports what an astute, non-statistician can witness with his own two eyes. And that’s why I refer to it.

Defensive PER 2010-11 Conclusion: Andrei Kirilenko does not let opponents score on him too often. He had the 5th best defensive PER, behind Iggy, D12, Luol Deng and LeBron:

.

Source: 82games.com

Total PER 2010-11 Differential Conclusion: Andrei Kirilenko does a lot of the little things on the court, despite his sporadic shooting, to help you win games. He is the most likely player in the NBA to record a quintuple five (5 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 5 steals, and 5 blocks.)

Total PER differential has three unexpected names in Top 30 list below (Andrew Bynum, Rudy Gay, and Lou Williams), who would likely be excluded if minutes were increased. Otherwise, this list is fairly sequenced with those who ball best in the biz:

For fans questioning the ability of AK47, or his potential to make an impact, perhaps his ranking on this list will assuage your concerns. (To put this stat in context, no King had PER differential last season near the 6.7 of AK47. Only two Kings, in fact, had a positive number: Tyreke at 2.0 and Marcus at 1.8.)

Whether Kirilenko signs with the Kings or not, and we should know definitively in the forthcoming days of the free agent frenzy, kudos to the Maloofs for trying. Their words of promise were not hollow, after all.

The Maloofs are attempting to land a major talent at a significant price tag above the spending floor. And for that I commend them.

Joe and Gavin pockets are shallow, as their reduced ownership to 2% in the Palms best exemplifies. Yet they are not consumed with their disconcerting balance sheet. They have authorized spending. They are in aggressive pursuit of improvement through Geoff Petrie guided orchestration.

First, they expressed interest in Tyson Chandler, until he turned sights towards the Big Apple.

Second, they locked down a front court tough guy and back court point-making aficionado on the first day that opportunity allowed.

And now this. A legitimate contract offer to AK47 speculated (by me) at $33 million over 3 years, with team option for 4th season.

Peaches Napear confirms the Kings spending intentions, via twitter:

Team made a great offer (to AK47), now it's wait and see time.

Let's put these current pursuits into a broader context:

The Maloofs are not beyond reproach for their secretive dealings with a scheming suitor to the south. They have work to do, amends to make and loyalty to reciprocate to a community that has been nothing but loyal and supportive for many years. They have trust and confidence to regain that has been significantly eroded.

The drawn out threat to move to Anaheim last spring was an emotionally strenuous time for all Kings fans. And we are not out of the woods. Yet indications and tangible hope for a new arena are strong. Plenty of work remains. Yet collective momentum, influential sentiment and most of finances involved are in favor of a shiny, state of the art home in 3 to 4 years.

Meanwhile, the Maloofs appear to be embracing of these circumstances, striving to do what legitimate NBA owners do.

Grudgingly or not, Stern mandated or not, and ultimately does it really matter, the Maloofs are showing a willingness to make it work in Sactown. After two plus years of cost cutting, they appear committed to return to relevance, aspire to excellence, and gain competitive footing with the best in the NBA.

The pursuit of AK47 affirms this fact.

In lieu of these events, and in eager anticipation of an exciting season, I officially put to rest animosity targeted at our owners, and encourage even the most begrudging of fans to do likewise.

Besides, it’s time to win, baby.

The Maloofs will be cheering with all of us, high fiving and screaming in two weeks. They return to familiar court side seats, to a place they should never have contemplated permanent departure. A new trip is required, however, along the road to redemption.

If recent events are fair indication, they are taking the right steps.

A Yogi (Stewart) once said that when preparation meets opportunity, you experience what may commonly be referred to as ‘luck’. A variation of this saying is that good things happen when a person is both prepared and opportunistic.

December 9th is shaping up as a day that Geoff Petrie can get lucky.

I cringe somewhat when I hear that the Kings should frontload Marcus Thornton’s new contract just to get closer to the 85% spending floor. And postpone spending upon a new key acquisition for later day.

That would be to squander preparation and neglect opportunity.

Geoff knows better.

Of course, a signing bonus to MT23 does not effect the Kings cap space. But the Maloofs are barely in financial position to offer the parking lot attendant a gift card to Jamba Juice, let alone front-load a contract that does not add value to the product on the floor.

They need to spend. And I think they are willing, especially in light of new revenue sharing plan. But they should spend with intent to win, generate enthusiasm, ticket sales and new arena support, not to satisfy minimum cap threshold through an escape clause.

For two years, the Kings have been slashing payroll to put themselves in this position (Partly strategic and partly mandated, the Kings are about $25 million dollar under the cap, and will spend $16 to $17 million to get to the 85% floor by season end). And for 5 months since July 1st, the GMs with whom Geoff will look to exploit have been twiddling their thumbs. Their phones were effectively disconnected, their email accounts suspended, and their ability to maneuver handcuffed.

The handcuffs come off in 7 days.

GMs around the league knew a contentious owner vs. player dispute was coming in June. But they did not know the length of the stalemate that would test their professional patience. Nor had they experienced the waiting and anxiety past Thanksgiving, and the threat of a canceled season. Nor had they become privy to the new CBA agreement now taking final form that will guide future decision-making.

Inordinately idle and now-eager GMs are forming their interpretation of the altered landscape, and plotting their (flawed) strategy accordingly. This combination of excessive downtime and a new play book creates opportunity heretofore unavailable. A shrewd GM can capitalize, not unlike a shrewd GM who swaps an UFA (Top Hat) for a young, dynamic scorer (MT23) at the trade deadline last year.

It is time to get lucky again.

But don’t take my word for it, although isn’t that all you really need? ;) OK fine. Have it your way, Cowboy Ron and his outlaw gang of cowbell ringers. Here’s a direct quote from Geoff Petrie at the media gathering yesterday:

There may be other opportunities now (post-lockout) that you didn’t think would happen or were unaware of, or arise out of other situations that were unpredictable…

OK, so that’s typical Petrie vagueness that can be interpreted in as many ways as Jerry Reynolds has Jerryisms, so let’s cut to the nitty-gritty:

The Kings want Tyson Chandler.

Tyson C. is the perfect veteran addition and defensive presence to a young offensive-minded roster. He’s Sammy D. with leadership ability, a championship ring, and without the delusions of scoring grandeur. I think the Kings would be willing to give Tyson C. a 4 year max contract. But it takes two parties to consummate a deal, and the Kings need an alternate plan(s) if the interest is not mutual.

Chandler feels he will not return to the Mavs, but this may just be posturing for negotiating leverage.

Before exploring other possible acquisitions, let’s address another question in the scintillating saga that is my 2011-12 Kings Season Preview.

Question: Can Coach Paul Westphal get this team ready in two weeks?

Answer: No.

Let me expand on this answer:

N-O.

OK, allow me to elaborate further:

Nyet. Non. Nay.

That was easy. Next question.

OK, let’s give Coach Westphal the benefit of the doubt. It is the season of giving, after all.

Lets forgive last years squandered preseason, with PW seemingly disinterested in building cohesion or momentum, seemingly smug his young and inexperienced team would just ‘turn it on’ once games began for real. Let’s overlook the fact that Donte and Top Hat came into camp in terrible shape, and that Coach Westphal placed little to no urgency or consequence upon their professional negligence. (Donte should have been deactivated. Instead he was given starting role on opening night: 1 for 7 in 27 minutes; then played total of 8 minutes the next three games.)

Lets bypass the fact Coach Westphal made little to no effort to play his two most talented players, Tyreke and DeMarcus together, on strong side of the floor, or in two-man pick and roll. Their lack of chemistry and familiarity lasted most of the season. And lets disregard the fact that Westphal did nothing to nurture the growth of a bright prospect named Omri, declined to grant him one preseason starting role as vote of confidence, favoring free agent forwards like Antoine Wright, later placed on waivers.

Despite a soft schedule the first month, the Kings sputtered. Coach Westphal had no answer, save an endless combination of lineups, substitution patterns, catatonic countenances, and self-righteous post game interviews. Not only were the Kings bad, they were dreadfully boring! A Kings game became the cinematic equivalent of ‘Eat, Pray, Love.’

'Zzzzzzzz........'

After winning 3 of 4 against terrible teams (Cavs, Raptors, Wolves), the Kings lost 22 of the next 24 games. If Tyreke does not make the miracle half-court heave to end the calendar year in 2010, we likely are discussing a new Kings head coach today.

Whatever, right? Let's move on. Reliving the past is a waste of time and energy once lessons have been extracted. Thankfully, it is a new season. Its new and improved roster. It is the same head coach, of course, but opportunity to learn from previous choices.

There’s new assistant coaches, too, which can be viewed as a positive, or raise further issue as to the competency of Coach Westphal. Three assistant coaches are gone (Otis Hughley, Truck Robinson, and Mario Elie), replaced by professional bad-ass Bobby Jackson and former Warrior head coach Keith Smart.

Jim Eyen returns triumphantly. Start printing the playoff tickets.

Schoolin' suckas and sportin' crisp polos since 1943.

A fair amount of turnover should be expected within the assistant ranks, but losing three assistants in short order, concluding them dispensable, yet capable of valuable contribution and hire-worthy a year earlier, makes me wonder if Westphal has the professional acumen to surround himself with the right people.

In recent interview with Peaches Napear, Coach Westphal says he plans to keep things simple due to the shortened training camp. He will add complexity as the season goes along, and players gain comfort.

Makes sense, huh? No disagreement here. Hey, maybe we are getting somewhere. Uh-oh, wait…

Coach Westphal says it could take up to and into the regular season to determine if his players are in adequate game shape. Really? I have a feeling if you asked Pat Riley how long it would take to determine the physical readiness of his players, his answer would be ‘45 minutes into the first day of practice.’

But let’s not nit-pick, nor squander the budding team optimism with belabored head coach pessimism, nor imply that the shortcomings of a head coach take precedence over talent.

And besides, we have Jimmer!

In the lockout shortened ’98-99 season, the Kings team gelled quickly with minimal time together. The talent was so abundant, teamwork so infectious, Donald Duck could have coached them to a .500 record.

Quack, quack, 1-4 flat, quack, quack!

Rolling out the ball may be enough this time too, pending one more home run acquisition by Geoff (in addition to MT23), and if this team can come together remotely as well as ’98-99 squad.

There’s always hope before the first ball is tossed crookedly into the air, and for glory days to be recaptured with a collection of hungry, new faces.

Hope springs eternal when your record is 0-0. Maybe our head coach will surprise us as well.

COMING SOON: The final chapter in the epic trilogy that is the Blob 2011-12 Preseason Preview!!! I take inspiration from the Godfather films, so my final submission will be in SMS. Shout out to the ‘tweeners.

Mysteries solved include:

Can Hassan Whiteside become a rotational player?

Can the Kings add an impact player with their cap space?

Will Jerry and Grant cry at the home opener?

Hells to the jingle bells, yeah.

I am beyond friggin’ psyched and uber-stoked the NBA is back. :) I am as blisteringly pumped as Beavis and Butthead with front row tickets to an AC/DC and Metallica metal-palooza. We went from the possibility of no team in Sacramento, and to no NBA season, to a sounds-right total of 66 games played where the team belongs, beginning on a day when gifts are given. Seems appropriate, huh? My feeling can be summed by the opening salvo from front man of a no-name band I saw at a dark and drunken club with amazing acoustics two weekends ago.

Rock n roll, bitches.

This Kings season shapes up as potentially thrilling, frustrating and ultimately satisfying with a legitimate playoff run likely to occur. Star led teams prepared to play, able to avoid protracted losing streaks and injuries, and possessing of young legs will be formidable contenders for post season admission. Whether our young Kings can qualify depends on affirmative answers to the following questions, which I loosely consider to be the 6 most important queries leading up to holiday tipoff.

The NBA is back.

Where the reformation of a 450 member player union for express purpose of ratification of compromised agreement, err, settlement of lawsuit, along with hard line owner hard-balling, commissioner bullying, and reclamation of sanity and belated cooperation in the spirit of four billion split in revenue pie happens.

Let’s ball.

Question #1: Can Tyreke and DeMarcus improve their efficiency?

It is not an exaggeration to say the Kings have one of the Top 5 backcourt and frontcourt talents in the NBA. Based on pure size, agility and skill, DeMarcus and Tyreke compare favorably with the best in the world.

Harnessing all that oozing talent is the next step in each players developmental curve. Statistical and intangible efficiency by the Kings two likely highest usage players will correspond to team win total more than any other team performance variable.

As a fan, there is reason to welcome this inescapable fact. Tyreke’s foot is no longer bothersome. DeMarcus is no longer bothered by a second portion at the dinner table. Tyreke is healthy. Cousins looks downright lean and mean. Summer pick-up game clips reveal a level of quickness and lift that recall the spryness of his All-American prep days.

Newfound health and fitness equates to agility. Agility equates to an ability to finish at the rim. Agility allows defending without fouling. Agility added to aforementioned size and skill equates to individual and team success.

As we all know, DeMarcus has the size of a center and the agility of a power forward. He is too big for ‘4’s and too quick for ‘5’s. He is unstoppable on most nights, and he knows it. His late season stretch of 20/10 games opened his eyes to what he can do, and inspired him into a productive summer.

In terms of a franchise tag, DeMarcus gets the edge over Tyreke.

This is not to slight Tyreke. He is a freakish talent, and my favorite player not named Jimmer. Yet based on relative strength of position and natural style of play, DeMarcus can do more to impact team success. Tyreke is still deciding if he is a full-time PG, seeking balance between distributing and scoring, and reconciling his introverted personality with leadership traits required of a lead guard. This slight ill-fit between skill and responsibility does not weigh upon Cousins.

DeMarcus has slightly better instincts for the game of basketball than Tyreke. That won’t change regardless of their respective growth and maturity. I am reminded of a quote by a sage Yoda figure, aka Pete Carill, who claims Cousins is the most talented player in Kings history, at the tender age of 20. And this is a coach who witnessed Chris Webber in his prime.

Regardless, teammate comparison is less significant than player efficiency. And both DeMarcus and Tyreke need to do much better.

What to look for: DeMarcus averaged 14 points and 8.5 rebounds and dished out 2.5 dimes last season. But he turned the ball over at alarming rate of 3.3 times per game, led the NBA in fouls at 4.1 per game, and shot only 43%. His point and rebound numbers will increase to neighborhood of 16 and 10+ with ease if he can stay on the court and show improved shot selection and decision-making.

Improved efficiency will be demonstrated with a TO rate of 2.5 per game or less, a shooting percentage of 47% or higher, and a foul rate of 3.5 per game or less. Also look for Cousins assist to turnover rate to be better than 1:1 (last year it was 0.75:1).

With new weapons at his disposal, namely (and presuming) MT23 for a full season, a legitimate finisher in the paint in JJ Hickson, and a lights out shooter named Jimmer, Tyreke should average 7.0 assists or more per game. If Tyreke plays 35+ minutes, has the ball in his hands as much as we expect, and draws the attention he does, his assist total must rise from his career average of 5.7.

Otherwise, he is not doing his job.

No more did we see statistical regression from year one to year two than Tyreke’s plummeting field goal percentage. His lack of confidence in teammates and lack of elevation around the rim, due to injury, resulted in too many long jumpers and a 41% FG rate, following a 46% FG rate in his 20-5-5 rookie campaign. It is worth note that he did boost his 3 point FG% rate from an anemic 26% to a paltry 29% last year.

Let’s look for Tyreke to reestablish himself as a 46% shooter or better, ideally 48 to 50% (based on his dominant ability to get to the rim), and 33% success from beyond the arc, to go with 7+ dimes per game.

Numbers like these will help the Kings win a lot of games in 2011-2012.

Question #2: Can Jimmer play point guard?

Geoff Petrie will tell you the answer to this question is ‘yes’ or else they would not have spent the 10th pick of the draft on him. The question is pertinent because Jimmer is forecast as the first guard off the bench. He will be subbing in for either one of two players who are not natural playmakers. If your three guard rotation is composed of players whose primary instinct is to score, offensive stagnation and isolation play can manifest over selfless ball movement too often.

It remains to be seen if Isiah Thomas can secure spot minutes as tempo changing water bug, a la Pooh Jeter of last season. Isiah’s play in summer pick-up has been encouraging. He gives off the distinct impression of a player who belongs in the NBA.

What to look for: One of the reasons Tyreke is better suited as a PG (or lead guard) than SG is his ability to patiently keep his dribble in traffic, breakdown his defender, and seek to create opportunity within the teeth of the defense.

Will Jimmer show the same amount of poise and skill when faced with similar on-the-ball pressure? Or will he treat the basketball like a hot potato, eager to make a relief pass, and then move weak side, looking for a screen-and-catch for quick release jumper?

Players with so-so handles are hesitant to maintain dribble, even when better judgment dictates. Jimmer has the size and strength to ward off defenders and protect his dribble. His college coach has praised his playmaking skill as underrated. He seems to have an innate instinct as to when to shoot or pass. Jimmer is battle tested as a college player can be, having faced countless defenses designed to stop him. Do not count on him wilting when Derek Fisher tries to get up in his grill.

Yet there is an unknown at play. We know Jimmer can shoot. And arguably shoot like nobody else entering the league in years. But can he make plays for others? Can he facilitate an NBA offense as a rookie? An intriguing question to which we’ll soon have an answer.

Question #3: Can JJ Hickson own the starting PF spot from Day 1?

The last time the Kings had a legitimate power forward who could go for 20/10 on any night, demand a double team, and finish with brute force down low was when Chris Webber had two good knees.

It has been awhile.

Apologies to the Shareef Abdur Rahim Fan Club (membership = URL not found) and the Jason Thompson Fairy, Unicorn and Yeti Research Foundation (membership = SactownRoyalty.com; j/k sort of).

One thing that will be apparent from Day One is the relative fluidity with which JJ plays the game as compared to incumbent placeholders who have logged minutes there.

It is going to be fun, guys. Get ready for Arco Thunder Dunks, er, Power Balance Pavilion Power Plays, er, Bankruptcy Protection Put Backs. Er, just slam it home dammit!

If you are not yet excited by JJ Hickson as a Sacramento King, here’s your chance:

JJ enters into a team dynamic that should allow him to play complementary yet substantial role. I have always contended that the PF position is one that makes for a relatively easy transition, whether from college to the pros, or one pro team to the other. Catch and finish, rebound and defend. Responsibilities are clearly defined. Monitor and control the post on both ends of the court. Stay out of trouble and play within your limits. JJ’s emergence while playing out the string last year demonstrated his ability to excel in this role (19.5 points and 12.3 rebounds on 52% shooting in last month of season!)

With emerging talent at tender age of 23, and bevy of positive signs, why is this a question worth pondering?

Coach Paul Westphal has a recent history of squandering talent, misusing players, ill-defining positions, and generally failing to maximize the potential of his roster.

See dubious disciplinary treatment of Cousins, arbitrary rules for Omri Casppi, coddling of veterans like Carl Landry, experimenting of Jason Thompson as a ‘3’, among other ingenious machinations.

What to look for: With anti-Adelman track record of player development, will PW incorporate JJ into the offense in timely manner? Or will PW discover an illogical basis to exclude him?

Coincidently, will JJ be able to adapt to new conditions and teammates, develop chemistry and teamwork? Or will it take half of a season to unite by which time post season aspirations wane?

Will Tyreke and Co. help to make JJ’s transition smooth? Last season, Tyreke did little to pro-actively involve Cousins in the offense.

Most recently, JJ was booted off the foreign team with whom he signed during the ongoing lockout. Allegedly he was late for practice on consecutive days, although there were reports he experienced home sickness and did not feel comfortable in foreign culture. Regardless, this experience speaks to maturity issues and ability to adapt quickly.

Will he average a modest 8.8 points and 6.1 boards a la JT? Or will he build upon the impressive end to last season, double these numbers and contribute significantly to team wide revival and the broader tangential hopes for new arena to call home?

I am betting on the latter. One month away and we will have The Answer.

No, not Allen Iverson. That’s one answer all Kings fans don't need to hear.

COMING SOON (Part 2): The Heart Pumping, Spine-Tingling Mind-Expanding Conclusion of Blob’s Kings Season Preview:

Question #4 of 6: Can Paul Westphal get this team ready in two weeks?

Question #5 of 6: Can Hassan Whiteside become a rotational player?

Question #6 of 6: Can the Kings add an impact player with their cap space?

I have a theory regarding all of this Salmons 'hate', for lack of a better word since yesterday's draft day trade announcement. His time with the Kings was associated with a lot of losing.  It is not John Salmons per se, it is the team-wide underachieving results while he was a King that elicited a collective and explicit-laced groan from an anticipatory fan base.  

It is true, although, that his style of play does little to endear himself to fans.  His game is not pretty to watch. He does not display any emotion or passion for the game. Not exactly an animated competitor. Often it looks like John Salmons is just going through the motions on the floor, which makes him difficult to root for, but that is just his style of play.  He is not unlike Tyreke in regards to his relatively stoic on-court demeanor.

But I think the predominant factor regarding the trade backlash is that John Salmons was a primary player on a team that sucked really bad.  Our memories of him are connected to a lot of losing!  I will not recount the win/loss percentage out of mercifulness. But to me thats the main source of the animosity more so than an objective evaluation of his skills.  Skill-wise, John Salmons is not bad. 

Here's what Salmons brings to the court for those unfamiliar, or for those who have intentionally blacked out that portion of Kings history from their mind, and rightfully so!

Salmons is a below the rim player who likes to pause and hold the ball off the catch to size up his defender.  And pause, and pause, and pause some more.  

He uses a quick stutter step to get by his man. He looks to get to the hoop aggressively and draw fouls.  He has a patented head and shoulders shake move off the dribble to create space and shoot 12 to 18 footers.  Even though he doesn't jump high, he has an ability to get to the rim and get his shot off.  His 3 point shot has improved over the years. Defensively, he does a good job of keeping his man in front of him, provides decent help defense, and can hold his ground in the post and paint.  He does a fair job of closing out on shooters on the perimeter.  When a man is open on the weak side, the strong side, or any side, don't count on Salmons always noticing him, or rewarding with pass.

All this sounds pretty good, so what's problem?  Well, his career has unfolded primarily within the context of a lot of losing. His culpability in overall team performance is up for debate.  I think he has to be held accountable to a degree, but he has skills that help a team to compete.  I am not trying to put lipstick on a pig, but John Salmons has game.  He's not a bad player, he just hasn't found a role yet within a team that wins consistently.  His career doesn't have to end that way.

Coach Paul Westphal made an excellent point in his post draft video that is worth mention.  Kings opponents last year would frequently hide smaller guards on our SFs (Garcia, Greene Casspi), and away from Tyreke, because they could get away with it.  Our trio of SFs could not exploit the size difference and post the mouse in the house. Salmons will exploit the mismatch.  He has a strong base, and can hold his position on the block, and punish smaller defenders for layups, fouls, and and-one's.  We have not seen this from Omri or Donte with any degree of reliability. This does not mean Salmons is going to get 10 post touches per game, or more than one or two for that matter, but our team will be harder to match up against teams rotating the JJ Barea and Ty Lawson types. 

Enough scurrying adjustment to what the other guy does, let them do the adjusting!  It is time for the Kings to dictate how the game is played.

Further one of the foremost needs for the Kings is a front court player who can handle the ball and initiate offense, and take pressure off the guards on occasion.  Salmons can do this.  Hopefully, the possession does not end with the ball in his hands, and it is up to the coaching staff to see that the basketball does not get stuck where it does not belong.

Do I like this trade?  No, not really.  Retread, 31 years old, limited to no upside. Uninspiring playing demeanor. Dubious leadership skills. But everyone deserves a second chance.  It is a new day, and Jimmer is open in the corner!  If Salmons buys into his new role, as 4th or 5th scoring option and defensive stopper, he can help a lot.  

I would anticipate he will be amenable to his lesser status as a scoring option because John Salmons got paid. And he is paid until the age of 34.  He's not playing for a new contract.  He's not trying to emerge from the Allen Iverson shadow like he was in his first stint with the Kings.  He does not have to prove he is a scoring force. He's had seasons of near 20 points per game.  He's set financially with his third NBA contract.  His priority should be winning and providing veteran leadership.  It is up to Coach Westphal to sell him on this new role, and for Salmons to embrace it, and bounce back from an off-year, at 41% FGs.  

Can he do this? Of course he can.  And I expect he will.

Pass the salt, please.

The angst last year was palpable.  Uncertainty filled the air like smoke from a Red Auerbach stogie.  Within the Kings 'war room', and amongst Kings faithful, doubt converged with hope, conflicting emotions amidst desire that their targeted 2010 draftee would fall oh-so wonderfully, like the bra strap off the shoulder of Kate Upton.  

Anticipatory.  Intoxicating.  Arousing intrigue.  Demanding of undivided attention.  

Repeated and belated thanks, GM David Kahn, for your inability to recognize beauty if it popped off the pages of SI, stripped down to a bed sheet, and reverse cow-girled you into the 2012 NBA Lottery.

Kahn: "Did you notice the unsightly mole behind her right knee cap? Pass."

Kings rookie DeMarcus Cousins may not be able to rock a two-piece like incredible Kate, but as a projected Top 5 NBA center through normal player development and professional maturity, he was figuratively worthy of cover girl status, with temporary belly bulge photo-shopped into six-pack abs.

Wes Johnson? Nice guy.  I like my bank teller to be nice. I appreciate selfless acts of kindness, but it is not the foremost quality I seek out of a high-level professional basketball player.  Wes Johnson is the basketball equivalent of Kate Upton's less photogenic best friend, the one with the fabulous personality.

Kahn selects ahead of the Kings once again of course, but this year is different.  Angst has dissipated.  Cloudy uncertainty has lifted in favor of clear skies and fresh air.  The June 23rd draft is unfolding to be a Day at the Beach, with a cooler full of Corona's, Kate Upton as your seductive playmate, sporting a bikini that redefines the word 'skimpy'. 

When perfection unfolds, all you need to do is savor the moment.  So defines private time with a Victoria Secret stunner, as it does the pending Kings 2011 NBA draft.  

While one may be fantasy, the other is soon-to-be reality.  Granted, adding a near ideal player to your favorite team that you know will be available to perfectly complement existing personnel pales in comparison to quality time with The Perfect Woman, but it at least surpasses building sand castles with Kate's friend and Jerry Reynolds in a purple and black speedo. 

OK, so that might be fun too.

"Nice suit, J.R., is that a Jimmer in your pocket or did you just watch him workout?

Last year I predicted the Top 5 players in the draft a week prior to the event.  At the time I was confident in my prediction.  This year I am about as confident as Jerry Reynolds in said speedo flaunting his stuff at an all access photo shoot.  

Insincere apologies for the disturbing imagery. 

Anyway the countdown to this Thursday is 'on'  and forecasting is fun!  I will therefore take lead from the silver-foxed Adonis, suck in my gut, imagine Jimmer uncontested at the three-point line in effort to "fill out" my sparse attire, and aspire to achieve photogenic results.  

Hoping on a miracle, perhaps, with a hodgepodge of a draft like this one.  So what baby, let's strike a pose!!! 

The draft is uninspiring and challenging to gain predictive grasp pre-Kings pick, especially at 3 through 6, although my lack of focus and present insight could be due to Kate Upton and her 2:00 glimpse into paradise. The top of the draft is conspicuous by its lack of marquee talent and projected stars.  Still, a gem or two is likely to emerge capable of immediate and eye-popping contribution.  Busts, disappointments and D-League assignees will be available too, though without neon signs over head to forewarn participants.  And therein lies the fun. GMs and teams will have to rely upon their analytical prowess and evaluation expertise more than ever since candidates have been unable to differentiate themselves definitively.  Regardless, names will be called, podiums approached, suits worn freshly, and dreams fulfilled.  Here's what to expect and why...

                                                        Blob's Draft Board: The (Meh)nificent Seven

 Pick #1:  The Cavs rebuild will be off to rousing start if they can parlay the #1 and #4 pick into a low post player deserving of consistent double teams, and a PG prospect capable of competing against the Roses and Rondos of the East.  If they can walk away from this draft with a formidable inside-out duo with star potential, they win twice in a month without taking the court. Previous win? See LeBron James NBA Finals performance, as detailed by Adolf Hitler:

The choice between D-Will and Kyrie Irving involves fundamentally solid and athletic players, and similar chance for stardom, so how do the Cavs decide?  Kyrie Irving plays the most important position on the floor as a PG, while D-Will plays the least important as a PF.  His claims at the pre-draft camp that he is a SF was an agent-driven comment based on the roster makeup of the top drafting teams.  Anyone who watched D-Will at Arizona knows that he flourishes as back-to-basket guy (and power dribble face up from within 15 feet).  He strayed out to the 3-point arc occasionally and hit impressive percentage, but that's not his game.  Irving has an ability to make Cavs teammates better immediately through quickness and playmaking, while D-Will will not make teammates better until (1) he is able to consistently draw doubles, and (2) passing effectively out of doubles. 

Irving has high basketball IQ, maturity beyond his years, and in limited sample size proved an efficient scorer. Unless something no one else is privy to is unduly or deservedly emphasized during the Cavs due diligence, Irving is their pick.

1. Kyrie Irving

Pick #2: As much as any GM, David Kahn fancies himself a roster craftsman, and prides himself upon the notion that he has a special insight others lack (see proclamations regarding Darko, and his all-star potential, and Ricky Rubio, and his distorted rationale over his slow development.)  He's out to prove himself in the midst of ridicule and botched drafts, and gain vindication for past mistakes.

If this pick does not get traded, and a trade is still strongest likelihood, I think Kahn would love to select Bismack Biyombo. It is a high-risk move that, if pays off, earns him the kudos he craves.  Never mind that Biyombo has the offensive arsenal of a third world country, Kahn wants to field a respectable team, if not a winning one, and subdue his critics. He needs a homerun this draft, not a single.  Picking the Congo Sensation represents a swing for the fences.

There is logic to this pick: Biyombo is the opposite of DeMarcus Cousins and Al Jefferson, skilled players who play below the rim, with questionable attitudes, and two players Kahn spurned via draft and trade.  In contrast, Bismack is an unskilled above-the-rim swatter, an incredible athletic specimen, and who by all accounts is a lovely person.

Foremost on his mind, Kahn needs Ricky Rubio to succeed.  Desperately.  To that end, he has Kevin Love on the boards to feed him outlet passes.  B-Easy Beasley and Nice Wes are catch-and-shoot wings.  Biyombo protecting Rubio in case of defensive lapses, and to show and trap on pick and rolls, will further ease the rook's transition.  An ability to complement the slower-footed K-Love and Darko has frontline appeal.  Biyombo catching alley oop lobs from Ricky would have the Wolves fans howling.  These types of idealized visions are churning around in Kahn's mind: Is Biyombo the glue that can unify my incompatible mix of disparate parts, and allow me to remain gainfully employed?

I think Biyombo is going to make it in the NBA and have a long career.  If he can learn to catch and finish, and discover a half-hook, he's a 12/12/3 block player.  But, as a rookie can he significantly help to turnaround the NBA's worst team?

David Kahn's receptionist:  "Chris Webber for you on Line Deep Six, Sir."

Kahn:  "Put the call through, receptionist. By the way, who should I pick with the 2nd pick in the draft?"

Receptionist: "Sir...?"

Kahn:  "Never mind, transfer the call,  golly gosh gee-willikers.

Kahn: (Clear throats and lowers pitch of voice) This is David Kahn, and I am a very busy and important man."

C-Webb: "I hear you are going to select Bismack Biyombo with the 2nd pick of the draft..."

Kahn:  "Who told you that?  My receptionist?  What did she tell you, C-Webb? What do you know, C-Webb? Are you and my receptionist in cahoots, C-Webb?  Golly gosh gee-willikers,  I need answers right now, C-Webb, as I am a very busy and important man.

C-Webb: (Long pause) "Good luck".   Click.

Holy Darko, did I just make a case for a player as second pick in draft who could not win a game of H-O-R-S-E against Stevie Wonder?  The blood flow from my brain that journeyed south courtesy of my sweet Kate has yet to make the round trip. 

I like Biyombo, and Kahn does too, but:

2. Derrick Williams

Traded for rights for to Bismack Biyombo and additional assets. 

Pick #3: It may be logical to conclude that having shipped their best player and Top 5 NBA PG in Deron Williams in return for Derrick Favors and Devin Harris, the Jazz will look to add Brandon Knight in hopes that he can replace D-Will, and become player of similar impact over due time.  I have my reservations, however.

GM Kevin O'Connor scouted D-Will, drafted D-Will, and watched D-Will school opponents for many seasons, then soured on D-Will when he said mean and injurious things to Old Man Sloan to cause irreconcilable differences, subsequent resignation, and in general for franchise panties to get twisted into bunch.  D-Will grew weary of Sloan's rigid coaching style, dissatisfied increasingly with the Jazz cost-cutting player moves, and did not conceal his displeasure, nor his capacity to twist said franchise panties.

What does this have to do with who the Jazz pick at #3?  Nothing, nothing at all really, I am just stalling because I have no idea who the Jazz will pick, and I like to inject the word panties into my writing when opportunity arises.  :=)

I just spoke with Kate, who wears panties, occasionally, since her and I are tight like that, both our relationship and her panties, and she informed that the Jazz will bypass Knight for same reason the Kings are a lock to select you-know-who at #7.

Knight does not project as an impact player worthy of #3 status.  He does not distinguish himself with one easily defined skill.  He's long and lean and quick, but not John Wall long, lean and quick.  He can score pretty good, not scintillating.  He might be able to run a team someday, not yet.  In other words, he projects to be like Devin Harris and the Jazz already have a player like Devin Harris, and his name is Devin Harris. 

3. Enes Kanter 

While Enes is completely unproven, he gets the Coach Cali Stamp of Approval, and measures out ahead of Brandon Knight in terms of projected impacted.  Big men with size, agility and fundamentals like Kanter don't come around often, are less abundant than guards like Knight, so Enes gets the nod here. This is a high risk, high reward pick, but O'Connor will not think twice about making bold move, as proven by trading his superstar.

Pick #4, #5, #6:

Jan Veseley will be selected by one of these three teams next up: Cavs, Raptors, and Wizards.  Kawhi Leonard will be selected by one of these teams. And Brandon Knight will be selected by one of these two teams not named the Wizards.  I reserve the right not to specify an order because (1) This is my fan post and I make the rules, and (2) See Rule 1.  OK, that's a cop out, and the mighty and omniscience Blob does not cop out. Besides how you will know what to think on Draft Night if I don't tell you? LOL. (Inside joke reserved for one person on this site who will not find it funny. And that's why its funny.)

By process of elimination we can exclude Knight from consideration at 4th spot, since the Cavs nabbed their PG at top spot, and exclude him from 6th spot since the Wizards nabbed their PG at 1st spot last year.  Progress! Math is fun. Before returning to our draft board, here's a quick math problem for your edification: 1+1 = Don't draft Jonas. 

4. Jan Veseley

5. Brandon Knight

6. Kawhi Leonard

#7 Pick:  And so here we find ourselves basking in the glow of sunshine, the curves of our incomparable Beach Bunny, and witness to a draft board that shapes up as envisioned, with the most desired candidate available for the choosing. No stress. No uncertainty.  No hope conflicting with doubt.  Awww.  A Day at The Beach.

 "Kate, my sweet, can you apply a little more sun lotion to my shoulders? I think you missed a spot."

By any objective analysis, Jimmer Fredette will be on the board at pick #7.  There has been speculation he could go as high as #3 to the Jazz, rather than the actual hopes by Jazz he lasts until #12.  This 3rd pick speculation is without merit.  First a player's place of origin is inconsequential to landing spot.  And while the Jazz recognize the value of shooting, and need shooting as most teams do, and appreciate the polish and appeal Jimmer offers, they cannot afford to bypass a potential cornerstone big man like Kanter. 

The Kings have masked their intentions well since Jimmer's visit, and completed their due diligence, auditioning candidates including Kawhi, Kemba Walker, and paying visit to Jan Veseley's private workout.  They have sent out signals subsequently with information leaks to the media that Jimmer may not be their decisive choice. All this serves as an effective smokescreen to conceal their true intentions, and dissuade Jimmer suitors (Knicks, Dubs) from leap frogging.  Don't be fooled.

 7. Jimmer Fredette

Enjoy the draft.  The day calls for tropical-like conditions.  The water feels great. Jump in.

Kate:  "Wanna join me for a swim?"  

You:  "Jimmertime!!!"

Deceptive Athleticism.  Steady competitor. Brilliant Shooter.  Unlimited Range.  Quiet Confidence.  And the next Sacramento King! 

I have been hunkering down in my B-Lab (Blob Laboratory) lately, that is, in front of my iMac, to study, quantify, qualify and deconstruct the top prospects through combination of You Tube clips, articles, respected commentary and relevant data to separate the wheat from the chaff, the contenders from the pretenders, and the Hakeem's from the Hasheem's. 

My analysis reveals the Kings will select...wait, wait...drama building, wait...tension mounting, wait...boredom setting in, wait...and wait no more! 

Jimmer Fredette with the # 7 pick of the NBA draft!!!  These results have a margin of error of 0.0%.  

Send him to the draft podium, design the 2011-2012 promotional billboards, book the January 2013 appearance at the Arco 2 Groundbreaking Ceremony, replete with logoed hardhat and purple-tinted shovel, and let Jimmermania commence!

The output of my scientific 2011 NBA draft investigation reveals Jimmer to be the most worthy candidate based on optimal fit, immediate and long-term impact, as opposed to position, reputation, or the elusive quality known as 'upside'.  In sum, Jimmer is the best NBA prospect available at #7 while satisfying a foremost need. 

B-Lab Findings

Despite the late season brilliance of MT23, the Kings are being built around the dynamic duo of Tyreke Evans and DeMarcus Cousins.  Reke and Cuz are the most talented players on the roster, and the cornerstones of The Rebuild.  Any core addition must complement their predominant traits.  If there is a common trait shared by the two players, it is their preference to bully their way into the paint, to overpower smaller defenders, to carve a scoring path with muscle and skill.

 

Opposing defenders able to cheat off their man and into help position narrows creases to exploit, and reduces room to operate.  To maximize the potential of our two best talents, we are wise to give them ample space to do damage.  Enter Jimmer, as weak side sharp shooter, spot up marksman, and trustworthy scoring option with minimal airspace required.  Jimmer will keep defenses honest and force opponents to swallow their poison. 

Drink up, mortal victim!

The Kings witnessed the positive impact Marcus Thornton brought to the team with his 3-point range (36%) and dynamic scoring repertoire (21.3 PPG in 27 games).  It is not an exaggeration to say the trade deadline deal made the Kings exponentially more watchable, exciting and competitive.  It has been suggested by many, myself included, that Jimmer duplicates the size and skillset of MT23, albeit a lesser and unproven version, and that the pick would be better utilized to fill another need or position (SF, PF).

Contrary to this line of thought, you can never have too many shooters and cold-blooded scorers.  Witness the NBA finalists Dallas Mavericks as example of team structured around the low/mid post dominance of Dirk as center hub to numerous spokes ready and able to launch from the three-point arc:  The Jason's, Terry and Kidd, our boy Peja, JJ Barea, and DaShawn Stevenson.

Reliable shooters become more indispensable when one of your best players drives relentlessly into the key, in the case of Reke, and needs a dependable safety valve when the bank is not open for business.  Further, when your best post player, DeMarcus Cousins, showed in his rookie season an ability to see over the top of the defense, and to find open wing or corner shooters, it helps when the man on the receiving end knows what to do. Swish!

Jimmertime!

Geoff Petrie's affection for superior shooting can be traced over the years to his acquisition of players who excelled at this one skill:  Ricky Barry, Danny Ainge, Mitch Richmond, Mike Bibby, Jason Williams, Peja Stojakovic, Kevin Martin, Eddie House, Tony Delk, Jon Barry, Omri Casspi, to name a few. 

Adding Jimmer Fredette to this list seems overwhelmingly fitting under present circumstances, although at first I rejected the notion.  In fact, the idea the Kings would draft a 6'2" white kid from BYU was beyond the realm of possibility in my mind, but not because he is a 6'2" white kid from BYU.   I made no qualms over my objection to Jimmer as serious candidate.

A sampling of impressions leading to today:

The best player I have seen in tourney so far is Jimmer Freddette, and he looks too slow and nonathletic to guard at NBA level, or to get to the hoop and finish...

Jerry Reynolds implied the other telecast he likes Jimmer. He said he is bigger and stronger than Mike Bibby when he came in to league. It will be interesting to see where Jimmer goes in the draft. When he goes in for the individual workouts if he proves he is a decent enough athlete, he will go high. If his athleticism (lateral quickness, speed) is sketchy, teams will get nervous....

The player I don’t want is Jimmer Fredette. Dude is too slow to defend, get out on break, and beat anyone off dribble....

I am not saying Jimmer is not going to be a good pro or defy critics with his athletic ability. I just think a projected PG without decent speed, or a projected 6’2" SG with just average speed, has less margin for error. If the Kings even consider taking him at #5, he needs to prove at least average athleticism....

Of course teams like Jimmer. What’s not to like based on his college career? He was fantastic. But there's a big gap between we like him to he is our draft pick....

Yo, yo, waddup wit dat yo-yo head? What's up with the reversal of opinion?  Slight change of tune, eh hombre? What's with the two-sided mouth blabbing, blob!?!  Chill. Settle down, Pookey, err, random reader, NBA aficionado, and gentlemanly scholar. Relax, breathe, and recognize that looks can be deceiving and newly released data, once churned and digested, can be eye opening, and assuage concerns to decisive degree.  

Allow me to explain the evolution of my thought process, my surprising B-Lab findings, and the basis of my boarding pass upon the Jimmer Express. 

As picture illustrates, Jimmer has a wide and somewhat stocky frame. However, his build belies his athleticism.  My initial impressions over his physique led me to imagine he would be a half to full step slow on NBA fast breaks, attempted back door cuts, or potential escape dribbles.  The NBA is a game of inches. Lack of speed and quickness is the difference between lay-up and a swatted shot, between three feet of shooting space and three inches, and between success and failure.

My tempered expectations held. Then, the NBA draft combine occurred.  The results are in.  Key categoric comparisons between Jimmer, his fellow attendees, his future King teammates, and established veterans listed below:

3/4 Court Sprint:

(1) Derrick Rose 3.05

(2) Rusell Westbrook 3.08

(3) John Wall: 3.14

(4) Kemba Walker 3.16

(5) Tyreke Evans 3.17

(6) Aaron Brooks 3.20

(7) Jimmer Fredette 3.21

(8) Jrue Holiday 3.21

(9) Chris Paul 3.22

(10) Marcus Thornton 3.28

(11) Omri Casspi 3.28

(12) Stephen Curry 3.28

(13) JJ Redick 3.29

 

Agility Drill:

(1) Jimmer Fredette! 10.42

(2) Dwyane Wade 10.56

(3) Jrue Holiday 10.64

(4) Marcus Thornton 10.73

(5) Brandon Knight 10.74

(6) John Wall 10.84

(7) Kemba Walker 10.87

(8) JJ Redick 10.94

(9) Russell Westbrook 10.98

(10) Stephen Curry 11.07

(11) Chris Paul 11.09

(12) Derrick Rose 11.69

(13) Tyreke Evans 11.89

 

Clearly, Jimmer Fredette is no athletic slug. He's more Road Runner than Wild E. Coyote. Line him up against the fastest of Kings (Tyreke, MT23, Pooh and Omri) and Jimmer will not get dusted.  In fact he may just lead the pack, and do the dusting.  Even more impressive, ask him to slide laterally against the most athletic guards in the NBA, and sliding he shall do.  His reputation as a defensive slouch at BYU may have been well earned, but he projects as a capable NBA defender.

The results of these agility and speed drills must be tempered with just this fact.  These are drills, not basketball plays. But the correlation should not be discounted, nor the fact that the impressive results address the primary concerns regarding his ability to excel as a pro. I was unable to find any prominent NBA guards who completed the agility drill faster than Jimmer. Video evidence here:

Jimmer Agility and Sprint Drills (4:55 to 6:00):

More Jimmer Agility on Display (2:55 to 3:05):

 

While Jimmer does not possess the length or hops of his soon-to-be peers, he possesses NBA level athleticism. His 6'4.5" wingspan is equal to Beno's, and puts him below the average of 6'6" for an NBA PG.  His 10'9".5 max vertical is mildly concerning, and puts him in the bottom 20% percentile of NBA PGs.  It still puts him among accomplished vertically-challenged company: Chris Paul, Jameer Nelson and Ty Lawson. He is not going to win a dunk contest anytime soon, or ever. But blowing out a candle upon a cupcake sitting atop of the rim while windmill double pumping is not requirement to becoming a NBA star.  

Sorry Gerald Green.

So there you have it.  In unexpected turn, Jimmer displays the foot speed and agility needed to defend, to fill the wings on a break, to pull up early in transition, to curl off picks, and to crossover unsuspecting defenders. Recent reports from individual and group workouts confirm teams and GMs are pleasantly surprised as well (Knicks, Pacers).  Most importantly, Jimmer seems to possess the athleticism to keep pace with teammates, if not lead them, and to play at speed and pace necessary to get consistent quality looks at the hoop.

Jimmer frenzy, friends! 

Jimmer compares favorably with a young Mike Bibby.  As a former #2 pick of the Vancouver Grizzlies, Bibby's transition to the NBA was fairly seamless. He averaged 13 points as a rookie, as high as 21 PPG in '05-'06,  and never less than 13 points over the first 12 years of his career.  He shot 38% from 3 points, 43% overall, with better than 2.5:1 assist:TO ratio. To secure a player of comparable potential and productivity with the 7th pick of the draft represents tremendous value.

Mike Bibby @ Arizona

vs.

Jimmer Fredette @ BYU

 

Fredette and Bibby have the similar body type, and same deft shooting touch. Both use their size and strength to ward off defenders and create space.  Jimmer has more range on his shot.  The Bibster had better penetration skills. The low camera angle on the Jimmer clips also effectively reveals (1) deft dribble crossover that will translate into NBA (2) nice elevation on jump shot, (3) adequate and crafty, if not good, penetration skills,  (4) nice handles in traffic, and (5) opportune passing.  

Why not Kemba, Biyombo or [insert name here]?!

Official B-Lab protocol dictates sizing up a draft in simplest of terms, in terms of impact.  Looking forward or in retrospect, the best players are those with an ability to impact a game and their team with a unique combination of skills. By considering a player in terms of past, current and projected impact, focus shifts to what he can do, versus what he cannot do.  Too often analysis gets muddled with lists of pros and cons, positional focus, and illogical comparisons.  By evaluating a player based on the level of impact he makes on a game today, and determining if the impact will likely translate into the future, chances improve that the best player will be chosen.

Tyreke Evans impacts a game with an ability to get to the rim at will through size and saavy, and his impact was demonstrated through 25+ consecutive victories at Memphis, once responsibility and the ball was placed in his hands.  DeMarcus was a prep state champion and leading contributor of top ranked team at Kentucky with his ability to impact the paint area through aggression, size and fundamentals. Likewise, Jimmer Fredette impacts a game with the constant attention required through his extraordinary ability to make shots.  His immeasurable impact upon the success of BYU program cannot be understated.  The clincher to this equation of projected impact is the display of athleticism to go with the sweet stroke. 

Jimmer will soon become the Kings best shooter since the glory days of Peja-vu, and an exciting and substantive addition to an emerging Kings team.  He immediately becomes the third guard in a 3-man rotation, and penciled in for 20 to 30 minutes per game.  I like Beno and his unheralded efficiency and production, but the arrival of Jimmer makes departure of Beno imminent.

The Blob has spoken.  The June 23rd Sacramento Kings draft future has been foretold. Trust in the wisdom of the Blob. The B-Lab never Be-Lies.   Thank you me for reading this post.  You have just been Jimmer'd.

* Blob Disclaimer * This 100% money back draft guarantee is null and void in the unlikely event Enes Kanter or Brandon Knight slips to the #7 spot.  Past returns do not guarantee future results.  Ice cream tastes good.

Now is the time to increase our efforts, Kings fans!  The Relocation Committee is in full appraisal mode of Sacramento and Anaheim.  Lets continue to offer positive, constructive and persuasive ideas to sway sentiment back to our city!!!

Now is not the time to sit back and wait idly for Major KJ, and to think the future of our franchise is solely in his hands.

If you have not already, please take action and be heard!!!  (If anyone has direct email contacts for the first five names, please add in comments below)   

As originally posted by Ziller, here again is the contact information of the Seven Relocation Committee members:

 

Mickey Arison: guestservices@heat.com

Glen Taylor: http://www.nba.com/timberwolves/wolves/contact_us.html

Clay Bennett: fans@thunder-nba.com (E-mail Title:  PLEASE FORWARD TO CLAY BENNETT. THANK YOU.)

Peter Holt: http://www.nba.com/spurs/contact-spurs-organization

Herb Simon: pacersinsider@pacers.com (E-mail Title: PLEASE FORWARD TO HERB SIMON. THANK YOU.)

Ed Snider: mpreston@comcast-spectacor.com

Greg Miller: gmiller@lhm.com

****

As inspiration, this is the letter I sent to the seven above individuals earlier today:

Dear Sir:

 

You have an important recommendation to make to fellow NBA owners in the coming days regarding the Kings possible relocation request to Anaheim.  I respectfully offer my perspective for your consideration.

I have been a San Diego resident for 7 years.  I have been a passionate Sacramento Kings for over 25 years, having spent 15 years of my youth there.   Thanks to NBA League Pass, I never miss a game.  If the Kings move to Anaheim, I will be a 60 to 90 minute drive to the Honda Center.

As a loyal and passionate Kings fan, you might conclude I would welcome the opportunity to see the team in person.  If the relocation is approved, I can easily afford to make several trips per season to see my favorite players in person: MT23, Big Cuz, Reke and Omri Casspi.  I promise you this will not occur. 

I do not want to see the team move.  I do not want this relocation to occur.  I urge you to deny the Maloofs potential request to move, or at least make it highly prohibitive for them to do so.  The Kings belong in Sacramento. 

I have been a loyal, faithful, and supportive to this team for many enjoyable but lean years. If the Maloofs are allowed to betray that loyalty and support from myself and their entire fan base by deserting a deserving and viable city for NBA basketball, all the goodwill built over the years will be highly diminished. 

I will not begrudge the players, and continue to root for them.  However I will not implicitly support the Maloofs’ decision to act so callously and negligently.  I will not contribute to the Maloofs revenue through purchase of Royals tickets.  Even though I am no longer a resident of Sacramento, please understand that the owner’s decision to turn their back on Sacramento would weigh most heavily on my use of discretionary income.

Anaheim will make the case they can draw from the San Diego market.  San Diego is a baseball and football city.  We love our Padres and Chargers.  San Diego does not and would not identify with the Royals as our team anymore than we identify with Disneyland as our theme park. My friends and sports fan acquaintances have little to no enthusiasm over the prospects of the Royals of the NBA in Anaheim.   

The last game in Sacramento was incredible, particularly the 4th quarter.  Games like the season finale against the Lakers should and can occur for years to come.   Rivalries like this one promote continual interest and intrigue in your league.  The NBA is built on competition.  This deep-rooted passion and enthusiasm should be valued, not destroyed.  Don’t let this rivalry come to end.  Don’t turn your back on Sacramento.

Alternate viable solutions are emerging.  City leaders are mobilizing. New arena momentum is building.  Real optimism over an exciting, talented young Kings team is justified.  Please do what it is in your power of influence to recognize these circumstances, to promote franchise stability, and to take appropriate action in the best long term interest of the Sacramento Kings and the NBA.

Thank you very much for your careful consideration.

 

Sincerely yours,

Sacramento Kings in 2012 and decades to come!!!

 

EMAIL Toteboard:  500 or Bust

 

Relocation Committee Needs to Hear From Us Today

500. Bench_blob

499. LLTG

498 Bald Matt

497. League Pass Addict

496. Edm_7

495. Aykis16

494. Otis29

493. Between the Eyes

492. Rik Smits

491. Kings Fan

490. Chenp22

489. Soccer Bum

488. Phuture Kings

487. Gunrock

486. Section214

485.

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.1.

 

 

 

I was not aware the new Sacramento objective was to settle a $77,000,000 debt obligation ahead of saving the team?  Of course the city can feel justified to interfere with carefully worded letter, but to what end?  This turn of events is unfortunate, makes an acrimonious situation worse, and a relocation to Anaheim more likely. 

If you want to assume the worst in others and see the worst in others, that’s what you are bound to get.   Well played, John Dangberg.   You don't overcome someone else's reticence through implied character slights.  It just makes them more firm and resolute in their position, right or wrong, and unwilling to compromise.  Its fundamental to human nature that the more you push against another, the more they will resist. 

How is a divisive letter productive to help you to achieve your desired result, which is to save the team and protect the obligation due to city?  It doesn't help.  But if you want to express your displeasure, adopt nuisance role, cover your ass politically, satisfy your ego and good-riddance contingency, and stake a claim for the correctness of your point of view, then maybe a pointed letter helps you accomplish your goals. 

And bye-bye team.

If the Maloofs eventually defaulted on their loan, wouldn’t the City immediately pursue every legal course of action to recoup money owed? Of course they would, to the fullest extent of the law, plus damages.  Until then, it is a moot point.  To make demands including ceasing of negotiations based on a hypothetical default is clownish and desperate.  And won’t help to get them to stay.

There's a difference between a justified concern and expressing a justified concern through irrational requests that do not serve your end goal of harmonious business relationship.

It is easy to find flaw and potential flaws with a counter party, to assign culpability for wrongdoings.  It is easy to look to the past and cry foul.  It is easy to get down and dirty, and say he started it.  It takes maturity and vision rise above it and take inspired action for collective good.  These principles of communication apply to business and personal relationships of all kinds.

Those involved in politics and law like the individual who drafted the letter are so entrenched in status quo way of exchange; they think they are justified in their position.  Even if he is, and he isn't, this form of communication leads nowhere desirable.  All you have to do is look at the legal and political system and its record of gridlock, infighting, and squandered resources as blatant indicators of a broken process and ineffective participants.

I don't particularly like the Maloofs, and certainly not fond of their recent actions and inaction, but I don't like them any less for their (Joe's) heated reply. 

There are enough complexities, potential entanglements and financial hurdles to relocation of an NBA franchise to a flooded market that it may very well unravel of its own accord.  The city needs to be opportunistic in this regard, not burn bridges beyond repair. 

 

I have never seen a player turn the ball over like DeMarcus.  Never, ever!  In every way, shape and form imaginable, he gives it away.   He is so giving his nickname should be the Red Cross.  Is he eating buttered popcorn with extra butter during timeouts? Get it, butter fingers, lol.  Actually they were in Chicago last night; could have been the olive oil grease off the deep-dish pizza (yum).

I think DeMarcus needs to hike to top of Mount Kilimanjaro this summer, or some place with snow capped peaks and sit in Zen-like posture until he achieves enlightenment.

The ball is my friend, the ball is my friend, the ball is my friend....Ommm...

Turnovers Per 48 Minutes >  DeMarcus 5.6 (1st or worst in NBA).  Total turnovers - 7th (220)

In addition to 3.3 TO average per game over the season, the last 9 games DeMarcus has been more giving than ever, averaging 5.0 TOs per game over last 9 contests, including a season high 8 give aways in only 25 minutes.  

That's once every 3 minutes on the court!

I wonder how much of this is lack of coaching?  I would say about 30 to 40% could be attributed to a coaching staff that cannot effectively communicate.  A coach’s job is to teach.  And if the student is not receiving the message, then the problem is not just the student; the problem is in the quality of the message.  The message is not being conveyed in a way that it can be received. 

I discovered this first hand through my experience teaching Algebra, Geometry and Science.  Students want to learn and improve, but they have certain styles of learning.  And if a teacher (coach or assistant coach) is not receptive to discovering those styles, stagnation or regression occurs.

I might say something to DeMarcus like this:  Every play you make or attempt to make is a matter of risk versus reward.  Do you agree?  (At this point he will say 'no go away', and it will all make perfect sense.) There are high-risk plays and low risk plays.  The best players, of among you can someday be, make snap second decisions in favor of the play with the best risk-reward ratio. 

A spin move into traffic with a second or third defender in close proximity is high risk.  Holding the ball in front of your defender within easy swiping distance is high risk.  Going to your best move, and doing so repeatedly, until the defense takes it away, is attractive low risk.  Discover ways you can play while making full use of your talents but also reading the riskiness of the play.  Focus on playing in ways to increase potential reward (smart play) while minimizing potential risk (dumb play).  Let’s measure your effectiveness not just by point and rebound totals, but also by smart play versus not so smart plays.

And I would add that when you increase the efficiency, your teammates gain (more) confidence in you.  And when teammates have (more) confidence in you, you get the ball more.  And just like each game is separate entity, each play is a separate entity.  And your own frustration level prevents you from seeing each play as a separate entity.  Positive (or non-negative) body language nurtures like-minded state, which helps you to move on to the next play.  The opposite is also true. 

See each mistake not as opportunity to get frustrated, but as opportunity to learn.   Your growth as a player is as much mental as it is physical.  Playing smart is a skill.  The best players are cerebral players, etc. etc. etc.  Cliches aside, this line of thought needs to be pursued with vigor.   Of course the student needs feel an integral part of this process, with appropriate give-and-take for optimal learning, and not just on the receiving end of a one-sided lecture.

All these ideas may sound simplistic, but that doesn't mean they are being delivered.  I don't think they are.  I think the coaching staff is at a loss how to communicate with DeMarcus.  I think they are too focused on his perceived problems, his perceived temper, his perceived reluctance, and not solution-oriented.  He is being treated like an 11-year-old stepchild whose parents are ready to send him off to boarding school. 

Chris Webber, who has expressed interest in the development of Cousins and a position with Kings, should have adoptive paperwork approved ASAP.

Am I the only one who thinks something is just off about this potential move to Anaheim?  I don’t think it is a Blake Griffin style slam-dunk.  I don’t think it is inevitability. I don’t think all hope has been vanquished.

With each new tidbit of news and commentary, including the latest ICON study delay, the collective mood seems to grow more somber, negative sentiment spreading like an epidemic, and resignation of departure near complete.   To this I say, ‘Go tell Tyreke Evans it is over with 1.5 seconds and down by a point!’

Anything is possible.  Serious discussions are just an exchange of hot air without a laugh track.  I’ll take my news in the form of official press release, not a twitter feed.  I am not sure the Maloofs have decided what to do yet, and if they have tentative plans, they may change their hearts and/or minds at the 11th hour, aka April 18th.

Until official word, I will try to put myself in the shoes of Joe and Gavin and ask myself ‘what would I do if I was them?"  "How would I think and act if I was in the same position?" And knowing what I know about their decision-making process with significant moves in the past, I will try to answer the question "What is their likely course of action?"  After some contemplation, these are the sticking points that stuck:

To make a move of this magnitude, it has to be a no-brainer.  I would not want to leave a city, generate a tremendous level of animosity from a betrayed fan base, and live to regret the decision. I would not want that on my conscience for another 20 to 30 years if I knew in my heart that I might have acted negligently.  There has to be overwhelming list of pros outweighing the cons to turn my back on a city so faithful and supportive, and bonded through shared experience of Kings seasons past.

As such, moving to Anaheim is not a no-brainer decision for the following Blobtastic (c) reasons:

(1) There is not a new building awaiting the Maloofs and the Kings.  The Honda Center was built almost two decades ago.  It is Arco with a facelift.  Or since we are talking SoCal post March 1st, it is PBP with Botox injections. 

Blobtastic Reason #1:  Simply, an old arena is not ideal, and it is not overwhelming motivation to get up and depart. 

If a brand spanking new, beautiful state of the art facility was vacant, open for business, and ready to be christened with a bottle of the $6000 bubbly from the Carls Jr. commercial, I could not blame them.  No such allure waits.

The wealthy like shiny new toys.  The Honda Center is not a shiny new toy.  It is a Tonka truck dragged through the mud, and pissed upon by the family pet.  Sure, it may have been rinsed off in the kitchen sink and presented as playable, but it is not an unopened X-Mas gift wrapped in a purple and black velvet bow.

(2) The Anaheim fans are not waiting with outstretched arms for NBA basketball.  They are too busy texting on their Blackberries in stop-and-barely-go traffic while cupping $5 lattes to welcome the Maloofs with warm embrace.  Further they have two NBA alternatives within reasonable commute. 

If there were a sizeable and long-standing Anaheim coalition rallying to attract an NBA club, it would make the allure that much more tempting.  Rabid fans eager to fill the arena on Opening Night and thereafter would undoubtedly woo the Maloofs, and provide added incentive.  No such group exists.  The Maloofs reception would be far from momentous. 

Anaheim is not Seattle.  Spurned Sonic fans would likely throw a downtown ticker tape parade, give the players the keys to the city, and shower them with affection upon Day One of their arrival.  If the same displays of appreciation could be anticipated in Anaheim, tapping into the Maloofs fundamental desires to feel wanted and loved, then warm-up the moving vans.

Yet will excitement in Anaheim be at fever pitch over the arrival of a team with a five-year lottery run when two-time defending NBA champs are next-door neighbors? Heck no or hell no.  Take your pick.  A largely indifferent to mildly enthused fan base will greet the Maloofs and their team. 

Blobtastic Reason #2: A lukewarm reception is not ideal, and it is not overwhelming motivation to get up and depart.

(3) Ownership of facility.   Last time I checked, profit could be maximized when you can stake majority ownership in business property.  And can proudly call it your own.  Then you are the boss.  You call the shots.  You answer to no one, but the financial indebtedness to your creditors.  You incur more risk as owner, but you reap more gain as profit potential expands and multiple revenue streams flow.

The Maloofs built the Palms casino.  They added a couple of hotel towers at cost upward of 100 million dollars.  Are these businessmen that want to rent and answer to a landlord?  Is this secondary status consistent with their investment history? Do the Maloofs want to play tenant following a decade of runnin' the joint? 

Renting has to be deemed as a step backwards for the Maloofs by several to all within their inner circle.  And while a rent obligation will reduce their expenses relative to a mortgage, the loss of prestige, status and profit potential once the economy inevitably emerges from the recession will be further realized. Other revenue sources including the rumored sizeable TV deal, luxury suites, and corporate sponsors may more than compensate, and renting may be their best option if, in fact, their finances are as precarious as speculated. 

Still, relinquishing ownership of your entertainment and playing facility is a small potatoes move to guys accustomed to lavish buffet spreads.

Blobtastic Reason #3: Renting vs. owning your facility is not ideal.  It does not cater to the collective ego of the Maloofs.  It does not fit their entrepreneurial vision.  It is not overwhelming motivation to get up and depart.

(4) The Kings are about to get good, finally. This team is ready to turn a corner:  two young stars, a promising deadline trade, a pending high draft pick, and a ton of cap space. 

The Kings are close, really close to winning.  Once two more very good players are added to this roster, feasible this off-season, then the rebuild is virtually complete.  The team will take off, not towards a championship at first, but to the playoffs, respectability and wide appeal. 

The Maloofs have always been optimists, even when unjustified.  With the accumulation of young and talented assets, the reason for optimism is real this time, confirmable from Joe and Gavin’s own courtside view, and credible appraisal from trusted GM Geoff Petrie. 

So, if the Kings add a few more wins next year, say, even doubling their win total to near 40, would it even matter?

With a Vegas bettor’s mentality, the Maloofs could wager their last stack of chips that an improved product on the floor will translate into sold out games, new arena momentum, and a swaying of political and public sentiment to critical tipping point.  The Maloofs possibly eek out a small profit next season with an eye towards the real prize: an approved arena deal. 

A seemingly contrary strategy could win favor close to the 04/18 relocation deadline: Time to go all in. Jackpot or bust. Bull’s-eye or bye-bye.  One last show of faith, creative compromise and attempt to cooperate with city of Sactown. Regardless of outcome, no regrets, no apologies, and no villain complex if the dice turn up snake eyes.

Until the on-court product speaks for itself, the current win/loss record (15W-45L) speaks louder, especially at the negotiating table.  Just as trading a player away when he is posting career low stats does not represent ideal time to strike a deal, relocating your team when your team stinks does likely not result in fantastical string of zeros and bountiful dollar signs in the plus column of your relocation terms.  While the deal granted to the Maloofs may be advantageous to current circumstances in Sactown, they would pale in comparison to an offer towards a team with a proven record of success.  

Would the Boston Celtics garner a hypothetically sweeter deal from Anaheim to migrate out West than our Kings to head down South? I think Samueli could find a few more coins between his sofa cushions to persuade a Leprechaun than to lure a lion (Slamson).

It is not inconceivable the Maloofs could postpone an intent to finalize a deal until the team starts to win next season, and alternate cities emerge as legitimate suitors. Over the course of the next 6 to 9 months, an improved product will improve the terms of a relocation bid(s), all the while allowing Sactown to realize what they got before it is gone.

Blobtastic Reason #4: When your product is temporarily defective, that is your team is not very good, counterparties look to fairly exploit this fact towards own financial end and advantaegous terms. 

Yet an improved product is in the pipeline.  Upon its release, the Maloofs will claim superior negotiating leverage. Until then, there is not overwhelming motivation to get up and depart.

This list of Blobtastic reasons is not intended to forecast that the Kings will stay in Sactown, or to suggest that the Maloofs do not already have a deal locked and loaded, and the only formality is the good-bye press conference and flipping off of the not-Arco lights.  They may be gone.  They may stay.  No one knows absolutely until official word comes. 

For every pro-stay item listed above, I am certain that a cynical fan, a Kings pessimist, an NBA realist, or someone more informed than myself can offer a reasonable counterpoint, citing or speculating upon numerous factors, not limited to the new pending CBA, the guaranteed revenue in Anaheim independent of ticket gate, the sense of owner entitlement and lack of owner liquidity as serious stumbling blocks, the potential lure of a big city to pending free agents, and the myopic mentality of public officials, and to conclude upon that basis that departure is imminent. In most cases I would decline to disagree.

What I am convinced of is that the Maloofs have to have genuinely struggled with a decision of this magnitude, and be internally conflicted as individuals and as a family how to best proceed.  Their decision is not cut and dry.  It’s not all about dollars and cents.  Yes, it is primary consideration, but there is more at stake. The Maloofs want to be heroes.  They want to beloved.  They want to make people happy. They want to do the right thing.  They want to sleep soundly at night.  To portray the Maloofs as Greedy Betrayers of a City is unfair, and no less inaccurate than it would be to coldly label Tyreke Evans as a selfish ball-hog or DeMarcus Cousins as an immature brat without acknowledging their tremendous basketball ability and potential for stardom.

 

Blobtastic Reason #5:  In just 10 years, the Maloofs have donated and distributed more than $17,000,000 to a variety of charitable causes through cash donations and in-kind gifts. The Maloofs are good people, striving to make a better life for themselves and others. 

Kings fans are good people too, and passionate basketball fans. The Maloofs share this passion and appreciate our years of support.  This relationship is not an overwhelming motivation to get up and depart.

Win, lose, stay or leave, I intend to keep hope alive, and invite you to do the same: for a better team, for a new arena, for a championship banner, and for a brighter future.   

God Bless the Maloofs, the SACRAMENTO Kings, and dedicated Kings fans everywhere!!!

* UPDATE 03/07 *  The ICON feasibility study is on. 

As diversion from the relocation drama, the uncertainty, and the apprehension Kings fans are all feeling over the future of the team, and pending developments for better or, better (think positive), I offer a quick post on what draws us all to this site in the first place: the NBA and our Sacramento Kings.  Let’s talk, blog, speculate, rationalize and irrationalize over our newest acquisition, and potential core contributor in the days, weeks and seasons ahead:  Marcus Thornton, aka MT23!

His first game was solid, if not spectacular, with 14 points in 25 minutes on 4 for 8 FGs, 3 for 5 three pointers, an assist, a block and a steal.  Beyond the box score and a little relevant perspective follows.

One of the simplest plays in basketball seems to be among the most challenging for the current group of Kings in our so-far 14 win season extravaganza: the post entry pass.  

Beno Udrih struggles to find the proper passing angle, and seems unwilling to make the pass unless the post player, JT Cuz or Sammy, has his defender double suplex pinned and cryogenically sealed.  

Tyreke Evans refuses to make the post entry pass often because, after all, why pass into the post when you can drive into two waiting defenders for a 10.5 degree of difficulty lay-up attempt?  Omri and Donte are not known for their passing wizardry.   Pooh Jetter and Luther Head are serviceable, but are not on the court long enough to matter.  

Our frontline bigs trying to feed from the post?  Hide your eyes and scurry the women and children out of the room.  Someday and hopefully soon, if his accelerated learning curve is an indication, Big Cuz will be a high level threat and efficient facilitator from elbow and free throw line extended.  Until then, nights like last, seven TOs in about twice as many touches, is frustrating to witness.

Enter Marcus Thornton.

Impression #1: The Small Sample Size Institute approves of this impression: MT23 can feed the post with ease.  As a threat to launch from ‘3’, and a wide body with low center of gravity, Thornton repeatedly fed the ball into the post at low passing angle to keep ball within safe reach out of outstretched defenders.  Simple and effective.  And an underrated skill. Play sets initiated with minimal delay into the post lead to player movement and quality shots. Even when his shot is not ‘on’, MT23 can help the offense run smoothly in this regard.

Impression #2: If I did not know any better, I would guess Thornton is a five year veteran, not in his second year with a handful of DNP-CDs: 12 bench warming nights this year, and 9 no-go’s as a rookie.  Yet in 25 minutes with brand new teammates and plays, he displayed poise and presence that all good players possess, a la Reke (most of the time), and not the frenetic level of activity that opposes one’s own skill level, a la JT (much of the time).  

Poise in the context of basketball is synonymous with playing at your own pace and own terms.  Poised players dictate action on both ends of the court.  The Kings as a collective unit need to increase their poise, and MT23 seems ready to contribute.

As further stats-based evidence of poise, MT23 has a low TO (turnover) rate per 40 minutes:  9.25.  The league average is 14.01.  Only Cisco at 7.91 has lower TO rate on the Kings. The Kings range from 12 to 18, with Sammy and Cuz at the high end. Beno and Tyreke are at 12.5 and 14.7, respectively. Whether MT23 becomes a more willing and adept overall passer remains to be seen.  His assist rate leaves more to be desired.  But for a team who gives away too many possessions unforced, don’t expect MT23 to add significantly to this total.

Impression #3: MT23 was relished to the bench in New Orleans by Coach Monty Williams for a lack of defense, allegedly.  What I saw was a player with the makings of an adequate to good defender: quick feet, quicker than Beno, granted not saying a lot,  and strong body, stronger than Pooh and Luther, granted once again, to prevent penetration into lane.   While listed at 6’5", MT23 looks close in height to Beno, or 6’3". 

With the Hornets, his size would be understandably problematic.   With Chris Paul logging the majority of minutes at PG, MT23 would be assigned to defend the SG if they were to share time on the court.  Paul might be 6’0". Tyreke is not as vertically challenged. Tyreke can shift to defend SGs when match-ups dictate to allow MT23 to guard similarly (smaller) sized players. 

Hope for Kings fans:  MT23 is not a bad defender.  In fact, he is pretty good.  He was just asked to defend out of position in his time with the Hornets. 

Impression #4:  The COC approves of the following impression:  Dude can shoot.  MT23 has compact and fluid delivery with little to no hesitation.  His strong base allows him to secure spot, rise over defenders, and release with optimal arc.  His aforementioned poise means he allows himself to concentrate upon the hoop in normal conditions and under duress.  PW will give MT23 the green light over the final 25 games of the season, and he looks eager to take it.   What is the COC?  The Captain Obvious Committee, obviously.

Impression #5: I have heard a few names tossed out there as to whom MT23 reminds them as a player.  Jerry Reynolds mentioned  Bobby Jackson in last nights telecast.  Maybe, but MT23 looks bigger and stronger than B-Jax by 25 pounds.  As an aside, I would imagine B-Jax gave his endorsement of the trade, likely seeing MT23 up close and personal during the pre-draft process.  Another name is Jason Terry.  In terms of instant offense off the bench, perhaps.  But different body types. And Terry has more handling skills.  The Bobcat announcers mention Vinnie "The Microwave’ Johnson.  Slightly before my time, so I will have to defer to a Piston fan or long-time NBA observer for insight.  

When I think of Bull-in-a-China-Shop undersized SG guard with a sweet outside touch, I think of Eric Gordon (6’3" 215 lbs) and Ben Gordon (6’3" 200 lbs).  MT23 is the same size (6’3" 205 lbs) with similar skill.  While I believe a player needs to make a name for himself first and foremost, it only helps to mimic what works for more advanced peers.  Just as Jerry Reynolds insightfully suggested Omri pattern his game after Hedo Turkolu to become a more well-rounded and dynamic contributor,  MT23 may wish to study The Gordons', their pet moves and nuanced tendencies, to elevate his game and chart his career course steadily upward.  

Here's hoping last night was the first step for MT23 towards a long and winning tenure as potent scoring force, poised core contributor, and complementary backcourt running mate to Reke.

Welcome to the Sacramento Kings, MT23!

 

 

I don’t like to see anyone lose their job and do not look forward to the eventual firing of Paul Westphal.  But if the move is to made in the near future, and I think if the Kings record slides in the ghastly direction it is coursing over the next few weeks, say 5-22, or  6-28,  walking papers are inevitable.  And there will be plenty of evidence to support the decision.  Further as the door hits him on the way out it will difficult to say he did not get a fair shake.  Many of these points have been made before on this board, but I want to summarize them and expand on a few ideas I think Geoff Petrie may be pondering as he watches this nightmare of a Kings season unfold. 

 

 

Request Made, Request Granted: Geoff Petrie has made the point that all factors being equal, he makes an effort to acquire players to fit the coaches philosophy and requested needs.  Last year, it was strongly implied that Westphal did not hold the game of Kevin Martin in the highest regard when he declared K-Mart to be the best scorer on the team, but was unwilling to label him as best player.  When Kevin returned from injury, Westphal did not go out of his way incorporate him back into the offense with designated play calls for #23.  The respect that K-Mart earned as a player over 5+ years with the previous coaching regimes did not seem to carry over to the newest regime, excluding Yoda carryover, Coachie Carrill.  

 

 

Coinciding with the backcourt issues, the front court was unsettled with Spencer Hawes in and mostly out of the coaches favor, with his high post skill set clashing with his newly assigned low post role.  Square peg into a round hole.  To quote the  inimitable Homer Simpson,  doh!  Paul Westphal tried to turned Hawes into something he was not, and the end result was a mixed bag of unsteady progression and being jettisoned to Philly.

 

 

Ultimately Petrie bears the responsibility for the trades of K-Mart and Hawes and whether they eventually pay dividends or not.  But I strongly contend that Westphal had significant influence in swapping out two primary pieces of our rebuild for perceived more toughness and frontline help.  Westphal requested tougher players and got them.  Petrie catered to the influence of Westphal and his impeccable standing at the time in effort to help him succeed.  Petrie had the opportunity to show loyalty to his head coach or two draft picks that he at once coveted as players, and he chose the former.  His loyalty is now being severely tested as the team regresses in spite of the coaches wish list being fulfilled.

 

 

 

Plan A, Play B, Plan WTF?!?   Last year there was a stated desire by Westphal to team up Tyreke with a backcourt mate to exploit the size advantage.  The thinking was sound, and to me it still is, to force mismatches by putting a SG with size on the court to force the smaller PG to defend out of the post, to force doubles and create open looks.  Omri and Donte saw time at SG.  Cisco when healthy.  We went 6’6” and 6”7+ across guard line.  Not anymore.  Now we go 6‘6 and 6‘3.  With Luther Head and Beno as primary running mates, attempts to exploit size advantage has been abandoned.  Opposing PGs switch over to Head or Beno, and Tyreke is left with a larger defender on him, such as Kobe and Artest last night, with a larger one waiting behind.  What changed?  Paul Westphal seems less interested in dictating match-ups than scrambling at every turn to respond to the perceived advantage of an opponent.  He is no longer proactive, he coaches out of fear of what the opponent may do. 

 

 

This has been beaten to death, but bears repeating for the umpteenth time:  Jason Thompson was a center towards the end of last season, so how the friggin’ frick did he become a SF?  Did he undergo a reverse growth spurt over the summer?  Did Westphal confuse JT with his little brother?  This plan was mind boggling to me.  Westphal wanted us to believe he needed to get his best players on the court, and the log jam at ‘4’ and ‘5’ necessitated swinging JT to the ‘3’.  I would disagree with this even if Landry did not come to camp overweight and rusty, Sammy D was not oft-injured and could shoot better than 40%, and Big Cuz was not leading the NBA in fouls, but such was not the case.  JT should have either received minutes on his own merits ahead of those guys at his true position, or not at all.  He was set up to underperform, and by virtue the team was as well.

 

 

The JT experiment appears to have been abandoned due to futility.  But this alone, irrespective of anything else Westphal has said or done, is a fireable offense. Every minute JT played at SF was a lost minute, and every game he played there is a lost game on the way to a lost season.  It is close to inconceivable that a head coach could have such a lack of grasp on his own personnel to ask a player to perform that far out of their comfort zone and skill set, all the while trying to sell it as a feasible idea.

 

 

Since You Can’t Do What I Ask, You Can’t Do What You Can: Carl Landry and Omri Casspi have been asked to defend and rebound to gain playing time. Fine. But in the process of asking them to become more well-rounded players, please do not forget what they can do. Score and make plays. By focusing on weakness, Westphal negates strengths.  Instead of catering a system to his players, he asks players to conform to his rigid system, i.e. having the ‘3’ player go stand in the corner and make the 3 pointer even though you are ignored for 22 out of 24 seconds on the shot clock.  More ball movement, motion offense, touches are needed for both these players as potent scoring weapons.  Omri averages 7 FGAs and Carl 11 FGAs per game.  Too low.  Their talents are being underutilized.  Westphal has weapons at his disposal and can’t figure out what to do with them.  This is not competent coaching.

 

 

Out of Timeouts, Out of Ideas:  So if Westphal is not so stellar at inspiring cohesion and teamwork, nor finding an effective starting lineup or logical substitution pattern, maybe he is a competent X and Os kind of coach who can draw up an out of bounds play smartly toward end of quarters and out of timeouts?  S-t-r-i-k-....errr, just a bit outside!  Our out of bounds plays consist primarily of isolating one player with the ball, usually Tyreke, pounding the ball to let the defense set, ready and perfectly able, and then willingly watch as the Kings proceed to make one to zero passes to result in low to mediocre percentage look, assuming a turnover does not occur first.  I don’t have stats to back it up, but rarely do I recall a back door cut, more than one pass being made, an effective screen being set to free up a player for an easy shot.  Basically none of the components that result in a high percentage play are evident once Westphal has opportunity to diagram a play during dead ball.  Conclusively, the strategic message is either flawed or he is unable to communicate effectively.  As the inimitable Homer Simpson would say, double doh!!!

 

 

 

No Point Guard, No Shooting Guard, No Leadership: Westphal contends that within his brilliant system there is not a designated PG nor a designated SG.  Instead there are two guards with similar responsibility within the offense.  I can concede to the fact that our backcourt players possess combo guard skills, and should use those skills to the fullest, but without a designated leader to keep everyone involved and find balance and identify mismatches, 85 points becomes an average team scoring output.  Is Tyreke the player to run an offense?  Beno?  Both?   Roles are so murky and scattered, chaos and confusion have ensued.  One of the biggest failings so far this year is that Westphal seems have little connection with his own players, including his best in Evans.  With little connection between player and coach, there is less connection between player and player.  Last year Tyreke dominated games by getting to the rim, and pushing tempo in transition.  And by being the PG over 90% of the time.  This year Westphal has Tyreke penetrating into congested lane, playing off the ball, on the ball, out of the post, on the wing, and top of the key.  Meaningful strategy either does not exist or has not been implemented.  There is no leadership on the court or off, and the inability to nurture such a role falls squarely upon the head coaches’ shoulders.  I would suggest that to return this team to some level of competence Tyreke needs to assume the role of PG almost all of time he is on the court, and bear the responsibility of creating for others before himself.  Apparently Westphal feels differently, and we have witnessed the anemic results.

 

 

Unwillingness to Take Responsibility:  Someone, perhaps Ziller, made a point in his commentary a few days ago regarding a post game press conference in which Westphal assumed a defensive posture and disassociation from his players, and readily assigning the loss to an inability of team to execute.  A man’s true character is revealed during times of adversity.  While I think Paul is a kind, forthright and thoughtful individual, it was disconcerting that he separated himself from the team so readily.  He is not a blogger nor journalist nor fan on the outside looking in, he is intricate part of the success or failure of the team, and should acknowledge the extent of his role, and his capacity to improve.  How has this team any chance of coming together if their own head coach acts as a disparaging and divisive force to the media instead of a uniting influence?  A struggling team needs a coach to lead and align himself with his players in full support, not attempt to dissolve himself of culpability in effort of self-preservation.  I would respect Paul a lot more if he flatly stated that along with his players, that he and his coaching staff can, and need, to do better.  But so far he would have us belief his coaching performance is beyond reproach.  This does not sit well with me.  

 

 

 

This post is not meant to excuse the players for their performance.  And this post does not suggest a replacement coach will turn this team into a playoff contender overnight.  But there is little denying that Coach Westphal has failed miserably so far, with an upgraded roster, relative good health, an easy schedule, and little relief in sight.  Time is running out.  If the coach cannot produce wins, nor excitement, nor competitiveness, nor a feasible game plan, nor foster hope and optimism among players and fan base, he serves no use.   He has not accomplished any of the above.  We are sitting at an abyss as a team, as low as I can recall given expectations relative to performance since the Dick Motta Era.   If the ascent from the depths of ineptitude to respectability does not begin immediately, Westphal will have plenty of time this holiday season to get his X-Mas shopping complete.  

 

Update:   The ascent began tonight.  More effort and execution like we saw v. Mavs, and maybe Westphal survives the holidays.  Win or lose, that is the kind of basketball Kings fans deserve, and should expect to see.  Heartbreaking to lose, especially when you make 11 for 19 3PGs, but best performance of the year. 

Games like tonight get coaches fired.  The anti-Westphal sentiment has been building steadily over the course of this six game slide, and after tonight it should reach fever pitch.  

 

Cutting your nose to spite your face:  Tonight’s starting lineup was less about strategy or long term permanence, and more about sending a message to his players to play defense, or sit.  Result:  Didn’t work.  Kings allowed 113 points and 52% shooting to a Knicks team averaging 103 points on 43% shooting, playing on second night in a row, while Kings were rested.  

 

New SF starter JT played only 11 minutes, and was a non-factor.  Back to the bench SF Omri played 13 minutes and was a non-factor.  The swap at the SG had better success with Luther contributing 13 points in 21 minutes, and Beno coming on late to score 18 points.  But there is no cohesion among the players, and the game reminded me of a pre-season contest much of the 48 minutes with the revolving door substitutions.  

 

Donte Freed!: We knew Donte would get his chance eventually, and just had to hope he would make the most of it, and he did just that.  I was impressed that Donte did not force the action, or launch quick threes while he was on the court early.  He played with patience, enthusiasm, and looked to find the open man.  He was active on defense with a big steal and offered resistance in the paint.  I was encouraged too that Jerry Reynolds said he was within 1 pound of last years playing weight.  

 

The last three weeks being humbled with DNP-CDs hopefully have sent a message that his NBA career is at crossroads, and he can be out of the league as soon as his contract expires, if he does not take pride in his profession, and responsibility for his development.  Fans can point to tonight’s effort as proof of Westphal’s incompetence, but I am more inclined to conclude the last three weeks allowed Greene to get into NBA shape.

 

The Progress of DeMarcus:  I think it is appropriate to measure young teams and rookies in 10-game increments, and to look for improvement in areas of weakness, and refinement of strengths.  At the 10-game mark of the season, Big Cuz has improved at playing defense on the interior without fouling. His footwork and positioning are better.  He is putting his hands straight up, trying to force players to make plays, and avoiding unnecessary contact.  His instincts are solid.  And his hustle stats in 30 minutes were impressive.  He committed only 2 fouls, had two blocks, 2 steals, and went to floor more than once to scramble after a loose ball. 

 

The negative number was 5 TOs: two travels, two three second violation, one poke away by Turiaf.   In 4 of last 5 games, Cuz has had at least 4 TOs, a total of 19 against only 3 assists! This is an alarming rate, and negates so much a team could or would otherwise do well.    It is difficult to win when a player who does not assist the ball coughs it up regularly, as we have seen with JT the last two seasons.   

 

Cuz gets whistled when he tries to make his move simultaneously with his dribble, because he is unable to keep his pivot foot planted.  (Add the fact that the refs are looking for slimmest hint of a violation to make call against Cousins.)  Until he improves his footwork, he needs to put the ball on the floor before going to his post move.  We saw that in the 4th quarter a couple of times effectively.  

 

Landry in The Paint:  Top Hat is back where he belongs (21/9 on 8 for 13 FGs). Down low to do damage, driving and powering through, to exploit a horrible Knicks interior defense.  Carl seems quicker with his first step and jumping off two feet lately, likely due to slimming down.   Unfortunately he was absent late, and only shot 13 times.  I think this number should have been 16 to 18 FGAs with advantage he possessed.  I am not opposed to the mid range shot as other fans are, and should be taken to set up a power dribble to the hoop.  But Carl is smart enough not to settle for this shot when he knows he can overpower his man.   20/10 games for Carl seem about an average nights work.

 

But as the second best player on the team, Landry needs to exert more leadership.  And do more of the little things to help teams win.  Loose balls, hustle plays, box outs, post defense, smart interior passes.   Landry should not be noticed only when he is scoring the ball.  And the fact that he is a limited rebounder should not prevent him from making other plays to help the Kings win.  If the team is going to turn the season around, it is going to start with the Kings best players, and Landry needs to find other ways to make contributions than just points.

 

Are the Kings the Worst Team in The League? Record wise, no. Philly (2-10), the Clips (1-11) and Rockets (3-8) have poorer records than Kings 3-8.  But based on strength of opponent (weak), and woeful home record (1-5), I would have to say ‘yes’.   

 

There are a few positives as outlined, but right now this team is suffering mightily from lack of leadership off and on the court.   Westphal seemingly cannot inspire this team, nor find an effective combination, nor stick with a combination long enough to give it a chance to succeed.  Tyreke has shown improved playmaking skills, but not improved leadership, nor any leadership for that matter.  And playing at less than 100% certainly hasn’t helped.    The season is only 10 games old.  But if the Kings do not improve significantly, and soon, through improved individual performance, through trade for a new guard, through a coaching change, or all the above, fans may as well be prospecting for the 2011 draft by XMas.  

 

 

That was fun.   

 

PW, how do I say this tactfully, sucks:  The Arco Arena maintenance crew may want to check the coaches office for Asbestos, because whatever the Kings coach is inhaling lately, it sure ain’t healthy.  Something in the ventilation system must be killing brain cells and leading to a case of neurotic substitute-itis.  Worse, the coach had a look of desperation on his face much of the night, and this does not exactly inspire confidence or leadership among a group currently lacking a sense of direction.  He tried everything seemingly without any sense of conviction or purpose.  The assistant coaches appear just as befuddled. 

 

Reekin Fouls:  I get it that you are hesitant to take your best player off the court when you are behind to the worst team in the league on your home court in the 4th quarter after they’ve played the night before. But with 10:00 minutes left in the game, and down 4 to 6 points, logical protocol is pull aside Tyreke, even for 1-2 minutes of play time.  Let him collect his breath and wits, and say “OK you got 5 (fouls), play smart, play your game but be careful, we need you down the stretch, Reke”.  A young player needs to hear those words.  Coach is paid to deliver those words as voice of wisdom and experience.  Westphal didn’t earn his pay tonight.

 

JT at the ‘3’, seriously?  No, seriously?  This will be the title of one of my talking points after every game, until it ends, mercifully.  Or until JT refuses to play there on the grounds of further eroding the value of his next contract.

 

DeMarcus had a nice stretch in the first half, was pulled after a 6 to 8 minute run of aggressive paint play.  And was never re-inserted in 1st half.  Disagree.  Let the rookie rumble!  He can pile up stats, get the crowd and teammates hyped, and generally take over a game.  He was suppose to have an axe to grind against Minny for bypassing in draft, and yet PW did not fuel the fire with extended run.  He sat too long.  And was nonexistent in second half.

The 2nd and 4th quarter line-up of JT, DJ, and Sammy is a frenetic mess.  The spacing and ability to make plays is not there.  If Westphunky wants to contend this defense made it more difficult on Beasley, I would challenge him to review the tape and show one instance where it was particularly effective.  

 

Jerry Reynolds made the contention that Beasley would be bothered more by quickness and size, and I agree, and yet we were unwilling to trap Beasley, and take it out of his hands when there were other offensive stalwarts on the court in the name of Pekovic, Millic and Tolliver and a rookie with a pretty jumper, Wes Johnson, but shooting 35%.  

 

Bad game plan, bad adjustments.  Just bad.

 

Alley Oopin’:  When JT, Sammy, and Darnell are on the court, and to lesser degree DMC and Landry, the man guarding them tends to drop off when on same side of court as Tyreke, and forms a ‘wall’ like Peaches and JR mentioned.  The Kings must devise a counter strategy to all the attention one player receives.  Any suggestions, besides better players?  Until then, the alley ooop is one such counter.   Tyreke and Sammy D ran it well twice tonight.  I expect this chemistry to grow and this play to occur with frequency.  

 

Hey, a positive!!!   

 

Barring a Sammy Slammy,  the bigs need to get to open spots and make themselves available to catch and finish in advantageous position.  This does not happen nearly enough.  JT is horrific at this.  Landry has been awful lately.  DJ is surprisingly good.  DeMarcus will be highly effective with experience and once he gets into better shape.   This team could use a stretch '4' to unclog the lane.  Maybe Donte should gain the weight back  :)

 

Anyway, the league as a whole has a collective strategy to slow Tyreke, which is to shadow him with a second defender with size.  It worked perfectly tonight and cost us a win.

 

 

Cisco the Gunner:  Cisco came out tonight super aggressive on both ends of the court, and was doing a terrific job of dropping down to help out on the post and coming over from the weak side to disrupt.  Unfortunately he was rushing his offense and couldn’t find his range (3 for 12 overall, 1 for 6 from 3 point land).  What was stark about his play in good way was his energy and defensive intensity, especially compared to his teammates. 

 

We need a smaller version of Cisco: an infusion of speed to facilitate ball movement, trapping defense, and more energy at both ends of the floor, to generate enthusiasm and easy baskets.   Head has been a thud since opener. Wright has been a bust(ed).  Pooh apparently hasn’t earned coaches confidence.  Without a dynamic ball handling guard to act as glue and complement to all our size up front, we look like a collection of (talented) parts that don’t fit.

Score:  Kings 89 Wolves 98

Record: 3-4

Due to overwhelming fan requests, and as time allows, I will be doing a post game fan post after all Kings games!  You are welcome ;) I will try to keep it positive and light hearted, unless it is inhumanly possible, i.e. tonight.  I don't do tempered expectations, unabashed homer bias, or advanced stats.   I have my player preferences but will make concerted effort to offer equal fair handed treatment to all participants competent, compelling and confounding alike. Shall we?

 

Something Has Got to Give:  If they did not wear different jersey numbers, I would think JT and Darnell Jackson are the same player.  They hustle, they rebound, they make modest contributions.  And having them both on the court is a redundancy.  Someone please tell me why they are both in the rotation?  Pick one, pick the other.  Pick neither.  But don’t play both, PW.  It’s not fun to watch. And it’s not effective.

 

Reekin’ Havoc: Tyreke is so good, 20/5/5 will soon become a below average game.  I can almost envision him scoring a lay-up three strides before it occurs.  If there is a crack in the lane, it might as well be a red carpet event with security escort, because Tyreke is going to waltz down the path like a celebrity in black tie unscathed and smelling like a rose.  

 

And I think for the first time in his career I look forward to the stop and pop jumper.  Compact form and non-hesitation release looks promising even when shots miss.  The fact he can get open looks at will because of threat of drive means a high percentage continuing is more likely than not.

 

DeMarcus in Crunch Time? I get it, DeMarcus wants to be in the game when the outcome is in the balance.  He can deliver and he will deliver.  I think later this season we will see a stretch of 20/10 explosions.  I believe.  And I believe PW wants to show confidence, and allow him chance to shine.  

 

But did he really deserve to re-enter with 4 minutes left and a modicum of hope?  It is easy to second guess, and one of my many endearing qualities :), but he could not establish anything against Gasol.  He did not play any role in the modest rally.  Gasol is crafty with the size to match.  DMC had a hard time on the opposite end as well.  Sometimes when a rookie is having one of those nights, it is best to let him sit and stew, and return next game with vengeance.  Tonight was one of those nights.

 

JT at the ‘3’?  Seriously?  No, seriously?:  You cannot win in this league when your lineup in bereft of speed and perimeter talent.  Look up and down the roster and the only guy with modest jets was Reke.  (And Omri.) The opponent played a double OT game last night, and our game plan is ‘ground and pound’ instead of forcing the pace with quickness and tempo?  Too much congestion, not enough skill, and our offense grinds to a crawl, and we still can’t keep Zebo from doing what he wants. 

 

Is Rudy Gay (11 for 19, 32 points) maybe a player you might want to try to slow? Let’s see, he is averaging 26 points on 52 % shooting and JT is suppose to do what now?  If the match up could be exploited on the opposite end, I would still disagree.  But not once was Rudy Gay forced to defend the post.  (Well, once and he almost forced a steal.) This is a flawed strategy and dubious coaching.  (I play Omri 40+ minutes, Donte gets a shot, then Reke, then Cisco, before ever putting JT on Rudy Gay.)

 

Thank Goodness for Reke and Cisco or We Lose by 20+ Points:

 

Carl Landry 1 for 4 with 0 rebounds. 

Sammy D with 5 turnovers.  

DeMarcus 1 for 5 with 3 boards, 4 TOs, and 5 fouls.  

Darnell Jackson 1 for 5.  

JT with beastly 6 points and 3 boards.

 

In sum, our front court was collectively ineffective against a tired team.  For a team rested, healthy and at home, not encouraging.  Toughness, talent, and resolve can all be questioned after disappointment.  Coaches and front court players share equally in this defeat. Definitely a step backwards.  This team has a lot of work to do and a lot to prove.  I expect more than we saw tonight and so should all discerning fans. 

Final score:  Kings 91 Grizzlies 100 

Record:  3-3  .500

AWESOME STAT OF THE NIGHT: JT played 16 minutes tonight and committed zero fouls.  It is the first time JT has went foul-less in a game since his rookie year, Nov 11, 2008, also vs. Memphis, the fifth game of his NBA career.  Yes, zero fouls, not a typo, goose egg, donut hole, Houston Rockets win total.  He breaks a foul streak of 158 straight games with his tonight's whistle-free effort.  Congrats JT!!!

Conventional wisdom, which is inconveniently inaccurate, would say that four spots in the King starting line-up, sans PG position, are up for grabs.  At least that is what Paul Westphal would have players believe, since competition breeds maximal effort. And it is what many fans are inclined to assert too, since playing fantasy head coach allows you or I to virtually bench players deemed unworthy in place of personal favorites.

This time of year possibilities reign supreme.  A new NBA season is less than 30 days from tipping, our record is unscathed, there is an imposing new color scheme upon the Arco hardwood floor, and we have a player named Pooh...good times!

So let the good times roll. And let unconventional wisdom take hold. Barring injury or a Carmelo Anthony blockbuster deal, the Kings starting five for the upcoming season shall be, without further ado, competing with impassioned body heart and mind, and occasional wink to Carly of our very own SKDT....

 

Timeout: Is it any wonder JT cannot make a friggin’ free throw?!  I am surprised he even hits the rim with her posing seductively, err standing, behind the basket in the Arco tunnel.  Memo to Kings staff:  Whichever side of the court the visiting team is shooting FTs, have Carly stand there. 

Shake those perfectly shaped pompoms Carly and the SDKT, along with whatever you are holding in your hands. Cue the lights! Cue the music! And cue the one-and-only, spine-tingling, iron-lunged prolonger of syllables, Kings PA extraordinaire, Adam Carrola!

Er, I mean, Scott Moak!

FYI I like Scott. I wish I had his vocal cords.  Even if we lose 50 games this year, at least we have Scott's booming voice and boundless enthusiasm to seem as if we are on the verge of NBA Finals. Or maybe his excitement is over scoring a date with Carly, who thought she was agreeing to go out with a semi-famous TV personality/comedien.  She got wise once instead of telling her jokes over dinner, he caused her ear drums to bleed.

Anyway, the five names that Scott/Adam shall belt out to start the season are:

PG:  Tyreke Evans

SG - Beno Udrih

SF - Omri Casspi

PF - Carl Landry

C - Samuel Dalembert

 

The Kings starting PG, SG, SF and PF are as clear of selections to me as are the three best players on the Miami Heat. The Kings starting center spot is less definitive, but Sammy is the probable guy for at least 5 to 10+ games.

 

Lets look at this bottom-lined, statistically based, and from a head coach justified perspective for semi-indisputable conclusion of above starting line-up.

 

PG:  Tyreke.  Bottom Line:  Best player on team.  By the numbers: 20/5/5 could look modest compared to potential.  25/8/6 is not out of realm of possibility next year or two.  There is rational Tyreke will get less boards with our improved front court.  Well Tyreke is improved too.  More agile from off-season training regime, less hesitant entering second season, Tyreke will get to loose balls, and rebound in traffic. With ball in hands, and more weapons at disposal, assists and points will pile up at an All-Star rate. The mind of PW: The more I play Tyreke, the smarter I look.  The smarter I look, the sooner the Maloofs fed-ex to me my 3 year contract extension.

 

SG: Beno.  Bottom Line: Beno is a better player than Cisco; more productive, more reliable, more consistent. Beno calmly drove the lane in scrimmage to sink game clinching lay-up last night.  Cisco rarely drives the lane calmly. By the numbers:  Beno shot 49% last year, third among all NBA guards, trailing only Rajon Rondo and Steve Nash. The disrespect Beno receives baffles to me.  Cisco is an average 44% shooter.  Per game, Beno makes 4.7 assists.  Cisco makes 1.8 assists.  Points and assists combined, Beno generates 23 points to Cisco's 12 points.  I was not a Math major in college, but that’s almost double. The difference in defensive ability is not as tangible.  The mind of PW:  I need steady production from SG spot, especially with an unproven SF spot.  I need a shot facilitator alongside the dynamic game of Reke. I need a SG I can trust, and keep the offense humming.  I trust Beno more than Cisco. Easy decision. 

SF: Omri. Bottom line:  Omri is a better player than Donte.  More dynamic, better foot speed, and a more focused player.  By the numbers:  Donte as rookie put up 3.8 points on 32% with 1.5 boards.   Omri as rookie put up 10.3 points on 45% with 4.5 boards.  Stark contrast.  Omri is charting statistical course to NBA starter, possible star;  Donte is on track to be solid rotational player, likely back-up. The mind of PW:  Omri was one of my best players the first half of the season.  He showed atypical poise and skill for a rookie.  He came to camp 20 pounds stronger to withstand rigors of long season that wore on him mentally and physically in his first year.  I believe the real player was Lively Omri to start the year, not Exhausted Omri to conclude it. Omri has shown commitment to being the best he can be. In turn, I will show my commitment to Omri by naming him starter. Again, a fairly easy decision. 

PF: Landry.  Bottom line:  Top Hat is our best low post weapon, emerging star, and most efficient team scorer. He creates double teams to keep opposing defenses guessing. He elevates his game in the 4th.  By the numbers: Landry has career TS% of 61.5.  JT has career TS% of 52.9%.  The first number is Top 15 in the NBA; the second number is below average.  JT has TOV (turnovers per 100 plays) of 14%.  Top Hat has TOV of 11%.  Landry touches the ball more, gives it away less, and puts in the basket more often.  Top Hat has a career Offensive rating and Defensive rating of 110 and 105, respectively, a net of positive +5. JT has ratings of 106 and 111, and net of negative -5.  In other words one player helps you win, one not so much.  The mind of PW:  I played Top Hat a team leading 38 minutes/game last year. Advanced stats confirm what my eyes tell me, even if we lack a team statistician.  Again, an easy decision.

C: Dalembert.  Bottom Line:  Promoting team harmony, and deferring to newly acquired vet takes precedence over superior talent and inexperience of top pick.  Sammy D gets nod over DeMarcus, at least for first few weeks.  By the numbers:  Sammy D was 7th in the NBA in blocks and 12th in the NBA in rebounds last year.  Rebounds and denials at the rim have been hard to come by for half of a decade.  Enough is enough.  The mind of PW: As a coach, I do not want to delay the inevitable pairing of the dynamic duo any longer than necessary.  DeMarcus and Tyreke are the envisioned inside-outside force to overwhelm opposition for many seasons.  So why wait?  Let’s give Sammy the respect he deserves as durable 8 year pro.  Further lets have DeMarcus dominate the likes of back-up flotsam like DeAndre Jordan and Dan Gadzuric, build confidence, and not worry about foul trouble. DMC will be the low and high post focus of the second unit.  As the double/doubles mount, and the minutes expand, a move to the starting line-up will naturally follow without veteran animosity. 

 

The Mind of PW Disclaimer: Starting does not guarantee more minutes played than a back-up on any given night.  Starting does not guarantee 4th quarter appearance for any given game.  Head coach reserves right to juggle line-up any time in response to match-up issues at discretion.  Earning a starting spot simply signifies the body of players work has been deemed advantageous to short and long term overall success of team.  Coach decisions are final.  And subject to change without notice.

 

So there you have it, the starting five of your 2010-11 Sacramento Kings!  Carly approves of this message.