It doesn't appear the League-run Hornets are going to throw enough money at Eric Gordon to keep him after this season. Is it possible for us to re-sign Batum today, then max Gordon this summer? I don't know how much cap space will be available after this season, but Camby's coming off the books and Felton are coming off the book, Crash likely to sign elsewhere, and having two productive SG's on the roster (both tradeable) provides them with options. May we have enough dollars left over to sign an upgrade at PG or a solid center who can defend/rebound?

What are the Blazer's chances of having the salary cap space this summer to sign him or Daron Williams? It appears Dallas is looking to trade the Matrix for more expiring contracts to create the space to sign both Howard and DWill. Outside of overpaying for one of them, how could we possibly compete with a market like Dallas in recruiting free agents? Are there any Eugenites who have the answers for this or is this a question for the the team President (former Uncle Phil exec)?

It's a shame once again, but it appears Melo will be Western Conference player of the Week. But don't be too upset, our schedule was the reason, three games instead of four. Wouldn't it be ironic if LMA continues his tear and ends up getting the nod for Second Team All-NBA? He seems to find a variety of ways to score, when his shot is not falling from 8-18 feet, he getting out on the break or hanging around the rim when his teammates clang from the outside.  What a transformation!

There is no doubt the early touch fouls kept Rex out of rhythm from the start of the game.  It was apparent he tried to make things happen in that second quarter, but it just wasn't happening.  My concern is the "looking-over-your-shoulder effect" that may ensue now that guys are getting healthy (the same may happen with Marty once Nic has been activated).  Moreover, If Bayless struggles during this road trip, Sarge will not hesitate to limit his minutes (what a waste of talent!).  Now that Blake and Rudy are starting to log more minutes, as well as knocking down big shots, and Roy will be back soon, Bayless' growth as a player will plateau and perhaps be stunted. 

IMO, if the staff and mgnt are going to wait until the team is healthy (not counting season-ending injuries) and maintain loyalty to the likes of Blake/Outlaw/Rudy, other pieces need to be moved in order to prevent having too much depth and chemistry issues in the future.  That being said, it appears Pendergraph/Cunningham would not take it as a slight if their minutes were cut as long as the team continues their winning ways.  However, Bayless and his competitive nature would absolutely take it as a slight.  He has the type of personality and drive that will never settle.  He believes he can be a star in this league if given the opportunity and we has seen glimpses this season.  With that in mind, I think it would be a huge mistake to move him.  Bayless is the kind of player the Blazers will regret getting rid of because he will make it his mission to punish anyone that stood in his way to be great (Me vs. the World mentality).

If I were KP, I would say screw the fans opinions, I like the growth I have seen from Webster, Bayless, Pendergraph, and Cunningham.  Unless, there is an opportunity for an uneven trade (not likely, only seems to happen for big market teams, i.e. L*AL/BOS), we will see how the season plays out.  No true Center, no problem.  Sarge and his staff are defensive game planning brilliantly to compensate. 

It truly is a nice dilemma to have for the staff and front office.  That must be why they get paid the big bucks!     

What do you think the chances are that Riley and his staff can land Yev's little bro?

By all indications, this could be one of the best recruiting classes ever.  Lots of *** & even **** recruits will soon be part of Beaver Nation.  I don't want to get my hopes up, but since the extension for Riley was offered and accepted a week ago, things just continue to look up for the future of this program!