Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 15, 2009 at 7:53 PM

I’ve been watching some workout sessions on YouTube w/ Curry, and he looks unbelievably good.

Price had knee surgery about 15 months ago; don’t think he is altogether recovered. He was projected in the lottery. If he comes the whole way back, he’ll be a bargain for someone.

It’ll be very interesting to see footage of Jennings.

Comment from wizbulletman0
Time June 15, 2009 at 9:00 PM

drool….love this workout

I dont know why i love it, probably because it has some top players.

I will say it again, i dont want us to draft Curry because we really dont need a PG like Curry. He is a combo guard and we already have a few of those (ARenas, Critt, and James).

Also I really like Critt, even in the abysmal season we had and he did not look like a great backup PG but we saw flashes.

The only PG i would consider is Rubio which would be a interesting combo with GIl at the other guard spot.

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time June 15, 2009 at 10:37 PM

The best combination would be Gil and Slick. Forget Rubio. Slick will beat anyone one-on-one and Gil’s offensive presence will almost guarantee a one-on-one for Slick.

Comment from datonypony
Time June 16, 2009 at 4:22 AM

I don’t like Rubio, if we do pick him, we better trade him. I didn’t like what I saw at the olympics, I don’t like how he and his Agents are doing all that “I refuse top paly for this… etc” Honestly, who the hell does he think he is.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 7:19 AM

Youtube has a number of pre-draft workout videos with Stephen Curry. IMO, this kid is likely to become a very good NBA player. He’ll be available at #5, and I hope we draft him.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 7:27 AM

Back one post, a new blogger — Babakism — suggests we trade Nick Young and our 2d round pick for a pick that would get us Dejuan Blair.

That could be a pretty good trade. Obviously, we don’t know how good Blair will be, but he has been a monster in the NCAA, and that is at least some indication. And we wouldn’t be giving up much.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 7:31 AM

I forgot to add: we probably couldn’t make that trade, because Nick has next to no trade value.

Maybe if we threw in Andray too? But, he doesn’t have much trade value either.

Comment from dmac
Time June 16, 2009 at 7:31 AM

As I stated at the end of the previous post this should be a great workout day. I know Sam Cassell will be excited with the likes of Curry, Jennings, Price and Flynn.
A Fox sportswriter has Flynn coming to the Wiz with the fifth pick. Nobody has said much about Johnny but he is going to be a nightmare with the right team. The kid can flat out play.
Fellow bloggers there is a must read:
Pick up the August edition of the SLAM magazine with MJ on the cover. It has the SLAM best 50 players.
Most of all it has an article on page 65 about the Wiz tititled CAPITAL OFFENSE (As this season proved, the Washington Wizards may still be the most frustrating franchise in the NBA. Just ask the Wizznutz.) Articles is written by James Morris of Wizznutz.com
Article photos of an injured Gil on the bench, Rasheed, Muresan, Jeff Malone and MJ.
You can also check http://WWW.SLAMONLINE.COM
It is the August 2009 issue.

Comment from dmac
Time June 16, 2009 at 7:36 AM

The correct website for James Morris is Wizznutzz.com

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 7:55 AM

I would be unhappy if we picked Flynn that high. I love the kid — his intensity, his attitude, everything — but his NBA upside seems pretty limited: backup point guard at best.

Why people want to rate him above, for example, Teague or (especially) Lawson, I don’t know.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 8:02 AM

SportsWiz challenged me to come up with 5 guys we might take with out Round 2 pick — guys that might turn out well long term.

First point to make is that our pick, #32, is probably more valuable than a late first round pick, e.g. #26-30. Why? Because the talent level is about the same: there are plenty of exceptions, but at this level the pick is a long shot to make a difference in the NBA. #32 is “probably more valuable” because you don’t have to guarantee a 2d rounder’s salary.

So… it’s an important pick.

Comment from dmac
Time June 16, 2009 at 8:08 AM

All I can say after reading the article about the Wiz in August 2009 edition of SLAM magazine is that it is time for a new beginning. It is time to let the past go. I pray that Flip is our deliverer who will lead us to the promise land of NBA franchise success.
I hope EG listens to Flip.
Some of of you may or may not remember that Michael Jordan did not really want to draft Kwame, Tyson or Eddy. MJ really wanted to draft a skinny kid from europe name Pau Gasol. But MJ felt like he would be laughed out of town for not drafting one of the high school kids.

Comment from dmac
Time June 16, 2009 at 8:10 AM

I will make my picks shortly Tom for the 2nd round.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 8:57 AM

Ok, so who might we / should we pick? As you’ll see, I’m favoring 2′s:

1. Marcus Thornton — Draftexpress has a new mock draft where we pick this shooting guard out of LSU. I haven’t seen the guy, but doc and others here think he is a real prospect, and his numbers are very good; he has been a very productive sophomore — at the same level as Harden for whatever that tells you.

2. Jermaine Taylor — small college 2 guard who was the Portsmouth MVP and shot up the 2d round projections with some even giving him a chance at the bottom of round 1. DraftExpress now has him going #33. All the same, before him I’d probably take…

3. Danny Green — the guy’s been consistently productive and was a key player on a national championship team. Why he isn’t rated higher I don’t know.

4. Paul Harris — another guy whose stock is rising right now. He could be a big-time defensive guard in the league.

5. Ahmad Nivins — Somewhere in this draft, just maybe, is a clone of Leon Powe: a reliable rotation big who does everything pretty well, has strong intangibles, has improved over his college years, and demonstrates basketball IQ. Is Ahmad Nivins, out of St. Josephs, that guy? I don’t know. Draftexpress has him going last in round 2.

Bonus pick: Jonas Jerebko — A lot of people like this Swede. His numbers don’t really tell you much. DraftExpress now has him sneaking into Round 1. No way I’d pick him there, but maybe w/ #32. For one thing, Ernie could stash him in Europe for a year. He might want a guy he could do that with.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 9:39 AM

Iam excited about Curry, he really has looked good! Cannot wait for the updates from Sportzwiz….

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 9:56 AM

Take a look at Curry:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EvXh35QON3k&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giOC6udzTy0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-FLrN0MJfE&feature=related

This kid will be in the NBA for 10 plus seasons

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:42 AM

Yeah, he is impressive isn’t he? He is deceptively strong, sneaky quick, and his shot is lightning quick and accurate. He also has a very high basketball IQ, is incredibly motivated to learn (see some of doclinkin’s posts about him), and is an intense competitor.

Comment from millie mill
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:00 AM

Nine days to go and I’m still very excited about the Draft.

I would pick James Harden if available (only because we are weak at the two). It looks like Harden is going to be drafted higher than us so I would be more than happy with Curry.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:03 AM

I must admit I thought he was great in college, however I was not so warm on him in this years draft. However after seeing his workouts, and hearing other teams and officials talk about him. He is the sleeper in this draft, he reminds me of Caron when he slipped in the draft and CB3 turned out okay huh? I really think we should take this kid, playing with this team, he would add a lot to this team and bench, he would be a great combo guard and our non 3 ppt shooting backcourt of the past would be no more. By the way did you see the video of his put back dunk above?

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:04 AM

talking about Curry of course…..

Comment from millie mill
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:06 AM

Neal, Saw your message from the last post. It’s still on for the ESPN zone Draft night. I think there is about five people that said that would like to come. I’ll send out another message next week.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:08 AM

I also may join my fellow bloggers on draft night as well

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:40 AM

Some tidbits from the Post:

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/wizardsinsider/2009/06/pointguardpalooza.html

Some from the Examiner:

http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/sports/48115287.html

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:43 AM

It would be a 125 mile drive for me to come to draft night festivities, but… I’m thinking about it!

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:54 AM

Neal I am 3,000 miles away, so do I get 2 drinks, lol

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 12:00 PM

The Post article links to Jennings riff on Rubio — which is really hilarious.

And I love this from the Examiner article: ‘Curry told reporters after working out for New York that head coach Mike D’Antoni had told him he didn’t think they can draft him, “because Allan Houston doesn’t want to be the second-best shooter in Knicks history.”‘

Now I’m worried that everyone will pass on Rubio, and Curry won’t fall to us!

Comment from millie mill
Time June 16, 2009 at 12:10 PM

They will pick Rubio before us because of hype.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 12:16 PM

Also as I understand this, Curry has been working out in DC since he declared for the draft, hmmmm

Tom I think Curry will be there the only team that scares me is Sac Town, with Westphal there they need all the guards they can get to play his style of basketball. However in that market they need to make a splash to put fans in the seats, with that being said I agree with Millie that Rubio will be there choice!

Can you imagine Curry and Zero in the back court?, WOW! Guys this kid really looks like the real deal, he has improved his vertical and he is getting stronger and already has a gift for a shot, gotta take this kid if he is there!!!

Comment from neal
Time June 16, 2009 at 12:36 PM

You got it jeffmalone.

We sure have come a long way from Blair Griffin being the only capable kid in the draft. Turns out there are a bunch.

I also hope we don’t take Rubio. I suspect he’s not as good as the hype. Curry sounds good.

What I really want is for us to trade that pick and an onerous Wizard contract for an underpaid established star.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 12:49 PM

Neal you have to see this clip:

http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/sports/kings/archives/2009/06/brandon-jenning.html

Yes Tom you are correct, Jennings may not end up being a Wizard, however I will be watching summer league action just to see the Rubio vs Jennings match up, love the swagger of Jennings, lol.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 12:54 PM

Hey SportsWiz any updates?

Comment from millie mill
Time June 16, 2009 at 12:59 PM

1. Los Angeles Clippers/ Blake Griffin (no brainer)

2. Memphis Grizzlies / Ricky Rubio (I think they will pick Rubio and trade Rubio and the another player or players for a vet)

3. Oklahoma City Thunder/ Hasheem Thabeet (best chance to getting the block shooting big man the always wanted)

4. Sacramento Kings/ Stephen Curry (I see Stephen Curry taken at #4 because he can run the point and help Kevin Martin with scoring)

5. Washington Wizards/ James Harden (Because we need help at the two guard position)

All and all I can only see the Thunder taking Harden at #3 only if they feel they need a guard more than a center. Most teams will draft size first. If the Thunder pass on Thabeet Sacramento will pick him up leaving us with Curry.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 1:04 PM

Millie you are correct and the OKC has many needs, however I do believe if Thabeet is there they pick him, however I think Thabeet may go to the Grizz. The Kings need an athletic young wing player, they have the bigs however no slashers so Harden may be the pick.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 1:09 PM

If Rubio is taken among the first 4 (whether to keep or to trade), then we get either Harden or Curry — unless, bite my tongue, it’s Thabeet who falls and both those guys are gone.

In that case, it’s *really* hard to know what to do — you can’t pass the guy up to take someone like Evans. At the same time, how many raw Centers can we develop?

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 1:10 PM

I can’t think of an “underpaid established star” — whom do you have in mind?

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 1:14 PM

I have Rubio falling to number 3, and Curry our pick at number 5. He and his agent have made it clear that Rubio wants to play in a larger market and the way Memphis botched Gasol and Navarro. No way he goes there! Not to mention Memphis has a log jam in the backcourt, as far as OKC need a point they take Rubio. That leaves Sac, to me they hold the key to how the rest of the draft will shake out, I hope they take Harden and it makes sense with the pick they really need to become more athletic in the backcourt, which leaves the Wizards with Curry in there lap!

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 1:26 PM

Here is something on draftexpress you guys *will NOT like reading*

While plenty of media outlets are speculating about a potential deal between Cleveland and Phoenix, we’ve heard some talk of a possible trade between Cleveland and Washington actually. The deal would essentially be a cost-cutting move for the Wizards, sending Antawn Jamison and filler (Mike James) to the Cavs for Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic. Wallace seems likely to retire, and Pavlovic is on a non-guaranteed contract for next season. It’s not clear whether the Wizards would need to surrender the #5 pick. Jamison is attractive to the Cavs since he’s exactly the type of combo forward they were missing to match up with Orlando’s Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 1:27 PM

Basically, if you sign Jamison for a huge amount of money, then the next year you have to dump him to save money, you deserve to be fired. That makes me think this is an idle rumor.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 1:29 PM

Hey Tom, I saw that posted today under there blog section. I know the Cavs would love to have Twan, however I think the likley hood of him geting traded to the Cavs, I put it at best 10%.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 1:30 PM

Once again Tom I agree with your post

Comment from millie mill
Time June 16, 2009 at 1:40 PM

I don’t think that will happen. (I hope)

Comment from wizbulletman0
Time June 16, 2009 at 1:44 PM

EG is not stupid. He aint trading Jamison in a “cost cutting move.” It would make no sense.

Cleveland is really desperate and nobody should be helping them out because they have no trade assets of any use.

If they land a 37 year old shaq, they think he is the piece that will get them a title. Trust me, LeBron and him wont win a title. Shaq would fill the lane up and everything will get screwed up. So go trade for shaq, not win a title and watch LEbron leave.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 2:08 PM

love this mock draft

http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-mock-draft/2009/

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 2:10 PM

And another DraftExpress rumor, this time about us and rubio:

“In the unlikely case that Rubio slips past Sacramento, it appears that Washington will not hesitate to pick him if they feel like he’s indeed the best player on their draft board. The prevailing sentiment at the moment is that Rubio is not in a position to return to Joventut, and that he may have lost some of the leverage he once had by keeping his name in the draft and suing his former team.”

Comment from millie mill
Time June 16, 2009 at 2:43 PM

Have Rubio been in any draft workouts??

Comment from millie mill
Time June 16, 2009 at 2:47 PM

jeffmalone1990,

If Memphis Grizzlies picks James Harden with the second pick it would be hard to see Harden and Mayo fighting for playing time.

Mayo can play the point. Neither can play the 3.

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time June 16, 2009 at 2:55 PM

Rubios agent said he did not want him to play in Washington but thats not the same thing as the player saying it but still makes you wonder if this guy is not going to be another Yi Jianlian mess

BTW thanks SportzWiz i got my jersey and if you run into dave please tell him i said thanks for all his help too

Comment from wizbulletman0
Time June 16, 2009 at 2:55 PM

Yeah i was about to say that, no way memphis picks him. They already have too many guards and Mayo and harden is not going to work.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 3:06 PM

Guys I am not saying that the Grizz would take a guard, I think Thabeet for them.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 3:08 PM

Also guys the Grizz have some players they could move as well, like Gay for instance. You never know, and they are not all that happy with there bigs, but anyway I will leave that for the Grizz message board.

So guys only Tom and I agree that if Curry is there we should take him?

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 3:13 PM

http://www.nba.com/wizards/photogallery/photos_090616_1.html

http://www.nba.com/wizards/news/workouts_090616.html

Comment from millie mill
Time June 16, 2009 at 3:25 PM

Jeff,

I know it’s not you that’s saying Harden will go to the Grizz. I don’t see Thabeet either. I think the Grizz likes Marc Gasol. Now, Mike Conley not so much.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 3:27 PM

should be fun to see Millie

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 3:28 PM

Rubio will not be working out for any teams Millie

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 3:29 PM

SportsWiz thank you for posting the pic above, (look at the form on the Curry’s shot, sweeeeeeeet)

Comment from millie mill
Time June 16, 2009 at 3:40 PM

If the Wizards pick Curry I think J-Critt will be out of the rotation. Unless someone gets hurt. Like Jeffmalone said it will be fun to see.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 3:47 PM

Ok guys let’s have some fun with this, if the Wizards take Curry who do the Wizards trade or let go???

Comment from Rick
Time June 16, 2009 at 4:02 PM

if the wizards pick curry, then nick young is certainly expendable. mike james and j critt are already expendable (but who wants them?). i imagine juan dixon is already off the map.

maybe we can get rid of james or etan and young but we’d probably have to unload our second round pick as well.

i suppose this is all true if we pick james harden as well. the only real big option still seems to be Hill (but he seems to be slipping in many eyes?).

There is no obvious good option to me. I still think Ernie is going to trade down and try to bring in some immediate veteran help.

Comment from Rick
Time June 16, 2009 at 4:07 PM

did you guys seem the rumors about the spurs potentially interested in the 5th pick? i would love to see Manu play the 2 spot

Comment from millie mill
Time June 16, 2009 at 4:09 PM

No one, right away. J-Critt would be a good third option and Mike James has an expiring contract.

Mike James and Etan Thomas expiring contracts will be very valuable come mid-season if the Wizards feel they can make a real push in the playoffs. Using those two contracts as bait can give the Wizards a nice player in a mid-season trade. Especially since the year of Lebron is coming.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 4:12 PM

Rick not exactly the whole story from reports, the Spurs contacted the Wizards about the 5th pick, and I believe the Wizards brass said it would take Manu to get it(RUMOR) of course.

Also Rick whomever we draft will on some level shake up the current roster in some way. So I would love if we could trade James and keep Curry,IMO. And somehow keep JCritt as a change of pace guard and allow him to compete for minutes in camp.

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time June 16, 2009 at 4:22 PM

Tom M. re. Blatche workout – “Admittedly, it is hard to keep in mind that there are guys in this draft who are older than Andray — not a lot but some.

Still, if we are going to get excited over a one-on-none workout by a 4th year NBA veteran, that tells you he hasn’t achieved much yet.”

You actually went back to a previous blog TODAY and posted that!

Blatche finally has a real NBA coach and it looks as though they are interested enough in him to devote some time. Maybe, just maybe, the guy can get some serious minutes at his natural position under new coaching. If he does, you’ll have to eat your keyboard.

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 4:42 PM

GABBO… You’re smoking crack!
& I for one, will GLADLY eat my keyboard… I hope I have to.
Blatche is Blatche…

& Tom, wrong again about player assessments, this time with Flynn. He’s a STUD. His workouts have moved him far UP the board & you somehow have the discernment to think he’s “a backup at best”?

Doc please jump in & tell Tom how he should feel about Flynn!

In love Tom, in love…

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 5:03 PM

Getabig — I’ll be the happiest guy in the room if Andray works out. Really I will. I didn’t see he wouldn’t for that matter — only that he hasn’t yet. And his numbers in ’08-09 were *very similar* to ’07-08, so I can’t conclude he was held back by Tapscott.

Anyway, this is his year — Nick’s too. If they turn into good players, that’s terrific.

M2 — as I said, I just love Flynn. He is a *great kid.* His interviews make that obvious. I hope he turns out well. His college numbers don’t make that likely, but I hope he does all the same.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 5:11 PM

It’s *really fun* to watch Curry. He looks like an NBA player right now.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 5:14 PM

Try to imagine what this time is like for these young kids; that’s really been on my mind. It must be incredibly intense, incredibly emotional, both fun and scary. The draft is real human drama.

dmac — where’s your list of 2d rounders?

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 5:19 PM

http://www.nba.com/wizards/news/workouts_090616.html

Check out the video of Curry….wow

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 16, 2009 at 5:32 PM

B.T.W. thanks again Sportswiz…………..:!:

Comment from Rick
Time June 16, 2009 at 5:33 PM

Blatche has a better chance of becoming an NBA all-star than anyone we could take with the fifth pick. He has all the tools and the biggest upside by far. And as you’ve mentioned, he is pretty much the same age as they are. Ultimately he will go down as another amazing 2nd round pick by EG.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time June 16, 2009 at 5:39 PM

If the Wizards get stuck with the worst case scenario (no Harden and no Curry at 5), the team can dangle Rubio to suitors. Since this draft is talent rich only in the top 5 or 6 players, I’m sure there are teams drafting below the Wizards that will want Rubio. I wouldn’t freak out about it. Maybe an excellent deal comes through where the Wizards can rid player salaries that currently hurt the team.

Although Grunfeld is always looking to improve salary considerations for the Wizards (aka doing his job as GM), there are certain transactions he can’t make even if he wants to. I sense the Jamison/Butler trade scenarios are definitely off the table because the owner wants to witness at least one more year of the trio in action. If the team is going to implode, it’ll be next offseason or earliest, in February, but not right now. I don’t brush off any trade scenario because anything can happen in the NBA; however, I have to think that loyalty comes into play when thinking about Arenas and Jamison – no matter how much money they’re making.

For those that want more inside information about today’s workout, read the Steinberg Bog:

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/dcsportsbog/2009/06/quotes_from_pointguardpalooza.html

It is excellent inside reporting.

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 5:46 PM

2nd round options:
If Budinger, Collison or Thornton slip (but I don’t think they will)

Kids I like that will be available:
Summers, Gibson, McNeal & Green

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time June 16, 2009 at 5:55 PM

I don’t know what people are expecting of Blatche this season, but all I want to see is for him to eliminate the “bonehead” type plays.

Blatche is nearly impossible to guard in the low block when he does his head/pump fake and then a quick spin move and leans toward the basket and finger-rolls the ball for an easy 2. If he does this 5 times a game, he’s guaranteed 10 points. Blatche can make free throws, so he’s not a big liability if he gets fouled. I’m hoping if Blatche positions himself in the painted area correctly, he’ll naturally get more rebounds.

I do believe Blatche needs better one-on-one coaching. I’ve seen Unseld Jr work with Haywood and that’s it. I don’t even know which former assistant was responsible for Blatche. I do agree with GABBO that better player development is needed for Blatche to maximize his potential. I also agree with Tom M. that I don’t believe Tapscott held him back. Blatche has been the biggest anomaly since draft day and he’s still a big unknown. No one wants this kid to fail; we just want him to do damage to other teams and not to his own.

Comment from ta1ent
Time June 16, 2009 at 6:05 PM

Blatch could be the next KG if he can improve his post game and mid range jumper.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 6:22 PM

Rick — I have no idea who in this draft will become an all star other than being pretty sure that Blake Griffin will. But… Andray? You are dreaming.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 6:25 PM

wiz_fusion — you know, if a guy wants to “maximize his potential” he will find the resources and assistance he needs. They aren’t hard for an NBA player to find.

If he doesn’t want to max, he really doesn’t need to, and all the coaching in the world won’t get the job done.

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 7:05 PM

Tom I love it when you make perfect sense!

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 16, 2009 at 7:56 PM

(I know… it’s so rare!)

Comment from Rick
Time June 16, 2009 at 8:15 PM

tom you are a wise man. that comes with age. andray is only 22!

i’m not saying andray will ever be a lebron james type all-star. but when he plays with confidence, he looks like a jermaine oneal type all-star to me. 15 pounds of muscle and i’ll bet he makes the squad in a few years. he also needs jamison to fade a bit and assume a more prominent role on this team or another one to do it. but no, i dont believe i am dreaming.

Comment from Rick
Time June 16, 2009 at 8:19 PM

as for blake griffin, he might be really good. or he might be tom gugliotta good. or he might be a greg oden bust. i’m not convinced about him yet.

Comment from neal
Time June 16, 2009 at 8:19 PM

I agree with GABBO about McGuire. He’s been a very pleasant surprise for a 2nd round pick and he has great team energy. But I don’t expect him to develop enough offensive ability to beat out others for the starting spot at either the 2 or 3 position.

I still think the jury’s out on Blatche. I’m less interested in his shooting than his conditioning. He’s really good when he’s really energetic, but he seems to coast sometimes. Haywood did that until he got real serious about conditioning.

Stay on the phone, Ernie.

Comment from tyrone20000
Time June 16, 2009 at 9:35 PM

Once again I got to put my 2 cents in on Blatche…the guy is slow and never shows up in big games. That pump fake shot that wizards_fusion writes about works against other below average NBA players in the 1st quarter while playing against mostly lowly western conference teams. Unless he improves his foot speed, quickness, bball IQ, boneheaded plays every other play, will to win, and on the ball D he is just another below average NBA player. I’d say D-league player but he does play in the NBA.

Comment from tyrone20000
Time June 16, 2009 at 9:52 PM

Hey Rick, are you Blatches agent?

Comment from neal
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:18 PM

That’s pretty hard tyrone. If nothing else, you’ve caused me to watch him more closely next year. I don’t think he’s that bad. Among other things, my impression was that his foot speed is at least average for a big guy.

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:44 PM

Andray Blatche’s highest level of organized basketball competition prior to the NBA was HIGH SCHOOL. After high school Andray had Eddie (I play small-man basketball and I haven’t any idea of how to get the big man involved in the game) Jordan as his coach for two years (first year doesn’t count due to injury) and then Ed (I have no idea what’s going on and no understanding of what I’m supposed to do) Tapscott as his coach for one year. In other words NO COACHING after high school. Any progress that Andray has made has been due to his own efforts.

A young guy who has Andray’s basketball skills might figure that he can make it on skill alone (hey, why not, he’s been in the NBA for 4 years already and he’s only 22 years old). I believe that Andray has come to understand after the past three years that he won’t be a big success relying on his skills alone and that he needs to work hard to be a first-class NBA player. Finally, I believe that he has started to do that during this off-season.

It’s obvious that a lot of us see Blatche’s tremendous upside that could be realized with the appropriate coaching and opportunity.
It’s also obvious that a lot of us see his potential and are frustrated by what appears to be his lack of enthusiasm, desire, dedication, etc.
Tyrone20000, and a few others, can’t see that potential and focus on the liabilities.

I firmly believe that Andray has determined to demonstrate that he can be a force and contribute to a successful Wizards 2009-2010 season. He has as many skills for a man his size as anyone else I have seen. He just has to understand that he doesn’t have to display all of those skills on every play. I liked what SportzWiz reported about what the coaching staff was drilling him on…the quick inside move; the 15-18 foot jumper; running the court and shooting.

If he works on his stamina and strength and then gets the court time he will be a positive contributor to the Wizards. Only time will tell, but I like his chances.

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:45 PM

t200000 well said…
Always encouraging when someone actually has Blatche figured out.
He’s fools gold & more than half the Wiz fans are still trying to come to grips with that.
Amazing!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:45 PM

Hello everyone,

Good dialogue!! I can’t wait until we get our new players and hit training camp

One thing that I will remind everyone is that the system that is put into place, will determine what our needs will be. I.E. when Eddie Jordan was here, the system was designed for “gil” when gil went down a new system was needed….then the system was “designed” for Caron and AJ, now we have a new system that will be in place. Will the system require more offense from the bigs, will it be designed for AB’s strengths, will we NOT need a scorer at the 2 or 3, and McGuire can start? Many questions are up in the air….exciting times are back and I DO see a run at the playoffs and into the playoffs (with a healthy team)

One other thing, maybe we have a deep enough team that can handle a few injuries and keep’s on ticking like clock-work (u can’t totally replace a Gil or Haywood, but u get the point)

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:49 PM

Blatche has nice coordination for a big fella (I guess he’s “big”?) but lets not confuse that with athleticism (defined: higher, faster, stronger) because you shouldn’t have to watch him play another season to have to access that.
Foot speed… Really? Decent footwork… Maybe?
He can’t jump over a slice of bread & he lumbers up court like he’s wearing abnormally heavy ankle weights…

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:51 PM

M2 – “He can’t jump over a slice of bread”…I believe he led the Wizards in blocked shots. He must have a tremendous wingspan to do that if he can’t jump.

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:52 PM

Gabbo I definitely see his “potential”… He’s actually just about reached it though. Not with you on Dray my man, not at all with you on Dray!

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:54 PM

That’s okay M2, we don’t have to agree. We just have to support the Wiz. One of us will be posting an apology at some point during the season. I’d like to think that it will be you.

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:55 PM

Great wingspan, nice anticipation…
Blocking shots isn’t always about leaping ability.
Blocking shots is actually one of Drays positives.
Decent skill-set.
Solid shot blocker but other than that a below average defender.
Can knock down the mid range most of the time.
Also has the ability to pump & go (albeit soft as hell) to the hole.
That’s as good as it all gets for Dray….
He is what he is… Stop dreaming.
Did you hold out this same type of hope with Kwame?

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:56 PM

I HOPE & PRAY that it’s me… But I have a pretty good track record assessing talent.

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:59 PM

MJ’s super ego crushed Kwame.

MJ was a superlative basketball player, but a terrible GM.

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 10:59 PM

While I have you… Slick isn’t gonna get much better either. His entire life he’s been just good enough to play at the next level but NEVER a star with the qualities of a STAR. Sorry… Love Slick but after his initial deal, he’s an NBA journeyman that shines from time to time but never quite gets it fully.

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:01 PM

Kwame’s a bum… I suppose a great kid, but a bum. No consistent dog in him whatsoever. Some cats are just built that way. MJ crushed Kwame my a$$ …

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:02 PM

Kwame has had every opportunity in the damn basketball world. He’s a bust!

Comment from M2
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:03 PM

MJ was, is, & will always be a terrible GM though, I’m back on track with you there!

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:05 PM

M2, my friend, you are picking on my two very favorite Wizards (and I know that you know that).

Slick is one of the best at breaking down his defender in a one-on-one situation. He is a scoring machine in the right offense.

I’ve said enough about ‘Dray.

I’ve been around long enough to have been disappointed by a lot of players, but with the right coaching ‘Dray and Slick will not disappoint.

Old man needs sleep…blog tomorrow. Take care.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:47 PM

The Andray discussion was quite entertaining. I’m holding onto what SportzWiz reported about his “work out” with clenched fists lol.

The “one” thing that might really complicate the draft is I don’t think Rubio has even been to court yet to get his case heard about his buy-out. Getting pretty late in the day for not even having been to court yet. Will he pay the “whole” thing to play in the NBA? I’m not sure how fast the courts are over there, but, I doubt that kind of case could be decided here in 8 days?

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time June 16, 2009 at 11:56 PM

ps… I don’t want Rubio. I want someone before us to be able to take him so Curry or Harden are there for us.

Tom… it may be a shock. Drink a lot draft night (unless you are driving back to Lewes that night.. then please don’t drink much lol). We may pick Curry (to our elation) only to have him traded away. I’ve heard too many Knick scenarios to not at least give it some credit. Truth… I hope we keep him. If Ernie can figure a way to free up a roster spot and still keep him I’m all for it

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time June 17, 2009 at 12:02 AM

Jeff… Great seeing you again Bud! Thank you very much for the Curry videos and the sports articles. Very good stuff.

You are a Wizards fan in California…. have the name of a famous Wizards player… you have to be instant Karma for us

Comment from Babakism
Time June 17, 2009 at 12:28 AM

Several things here………..
Jamison is not a power forward……………he is a small forward
If someone steps up who is good enough to start at PF Jamison can move to the 3 and butler to the 2. Besides the fact Jamison is one of the premier scorers in the league who still has juice left in the tank, the chemistry of the Big 3 and Haywood must not be overlooked……….

Everyone keeps saying this is a point guard heavy draft……….
Brandon Jennings
Stephen Curry
Tyreke Evans
Jeff Teague
Jrue Holliday………………..
NOT POINT GUARDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Don’t get me wrong there are still alot of PGs available, just not those guys.
We don’t really know what to expect with Rubio, however Johny Flyn might be the best true point guard in the draft. He has a good assist average and can score. Most importantly he is a tough leader with alot of heart. The 5 pick is way to early to take him though

I think Curry would be a horrible pick. Outside shooting is nice but curry is way to small to play D on anyone but a point guard. I think the only reason we are saying we are going to draft Curry is because we are trying to bait the knicks to trade with us.

The one thing everyone keeps overlooking is the fact that we have NO point guard. Mike James is not a point gaurd and neither is crittendon. Gilbert says he is going to become a true point guard and wants to lead the league in tripple doubles this year and I beleive him. But the fact still remains barring Gilberts transformation we don’t have a point guard. Antonio Daniels was the perfect compliment to Gil because he was one of the top 10 PURE point guards in the league. Not 10 best but from the standpoint of pass first leading the team. He could play backup to Gil and they could share time on the court together.

Comment from wizbulletman0
Time June 17, 2009 at 1:00 AM

Woah, Jamison is a PF. Him at SF would be a disaster, same offensive numbers but would get absolutely MURDERED on D.

Ok moving on.

I think Flynn >>>> Curry

Why?

Flynn is probably the most athletic PG in this draft. And he is not a tweener like Curry. Curry has a great IQ as everyone knows and a world class shot. But, he is not nearly as athletic nor as quick as Flynn.

Flynn plays alot bigger than his listed 6’0 and can get by anyone who is guarding him, has an improving Jumper that was not bad at Syracuse, and can get in the lane anytime he wants.

Curry is better than Jennings though because he is just a wild PG and might be too sparatic and is not ready for the league yet, even playing ball in Italy.

Flynn averaged good scoring and assists numbers at Syracuse so its not like he isnt a distributer.

Overall I think we should trade down or just Take Flynn at 5 if Rubio and Harden are gone.

In the worst case scenario, where we are stuck with selecting someone and Rubio and Harden are gone take Flynn. If you can trade down with say NY and dump salary and give them Curry and they get Flynn, do it.

Guys that are still intriguing me are Evans and Derozan.

HELL NO to Hill.

Comment from Babakism
Time June 17, 2009 at 2:27 AM

And Jamison excels on defense at PF???????????? Jamison is the true definition of a tweener. Either position he plays he will get beat at something. at least if his man gets by him you have a shot blocker behind him cause jamison aint blockin nobodys shot

Comment from wiz123
Time June 17, 2009 at 2:34 AM

playing Jamison as a SF you’s take away one of his biggest strength – rebounding.

Comment from dmac
Time June 17, 2009 at 6:02 AM

First of all that was some great blogging the last couple of days. Awesome.
Can someone send the transcripts of these blogs to Andray. I think that may be what he needs when he reads how most Wiz fans want him to do well, but are tired of the inconsistency.
As Jamison and Butler have said in the past that if he really works at it he could be a great player in the league. Right now I believe that if Andray were to read these recent blogs, make an appointment with Tom Mandel for a reality session, hire Rick as his agent, have Butler and Jamison split time being his chaperone, listen and obey Coach Flip and most of all do not read the latest Slam issue with MJ on the cover and the article about the Wiz being a Capital Offense without old school adult supervision. Why? Dray is liable to call up past Wizards like Kenny Green and ask why did they take you instead of Karl Malone.
As far as Jamison is concerned he should be listed as a forward. He is neither a PF or SF he just plays the game to the best of his abilities. What is a tweener anyway is that a combo meal? Most of all if they trade AJ it better not be to Cleveland so he can hit the game winning 3 and knock us out of the playoffs.
Like I said if we can’t get something just as valuable or more for any of the Big 3 then we stand still and with what we got. If you draft Harden or Curry we can’t go wrong. Especially with Curry we will be a better 3 point threat than Orlando with Arenas, Jamison and Curry spreading the offense at the end of the game. It would be so awesome even Tim Legler would want to get involved.
We may not have the first draft pick but we are the franchise that everybody is courting and waiting to see what we do at 5. Believe it or not we are in a power position. The thing is it is time for us to get the benefits and start a new era that brings us back to the Bullets of 78 and 79 and the Fat Lady. This past year was just a bad storm that will pass over. As a diehard Bullets/Wizards fan I stand behind them just like if it was one of my misbehaving children. I will write my blogs of discipline but then I would let them know that I still love them. Just change those colors. See what it did for the CAPITALS. They did not win it all this year but I believe they will knock the door down next year. Why can’t we.

Comment from dmac
Time June 17, 2009 at 6:06 AM

Why not bring back Rasheed Wallace instead of a ready to retire Ben Wallace?

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 17, 2009 at 7:00 AM

dmac — we want to get rid of ben’s $14m in salary; that’s the only reason anyone would make such a trade.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 17, 2009 at 7:09 AM

Getabig — I guess I should have realized that Nick and Dray were your favorite Wizards, but I didn’t. It’s good in that case that you defend them so vigorously!

Your point about Dray’s background is a good one — and it’s the only real reason I am happy that kids have to go to school now before being drafted. And would even be ok w/ it being 2 years instead of 1.

But, you can’t necessarily make up for this kind of problem. In the end, if he wasn’t developed in his teens, you can’t always change that in a guy in his 20s who has millions of dollars coming in every year.

You express yourself as if you have inside knowledge of what Andray has decided he has to do — or even more of what his ability is to actually discipline himself to execute such a life decision. I don’t have that, so lets just say that if he *does* commit himself in that way, sure, he has tools to be quite a good player.

But, he hasn’t shown that so far, so it’s kind of a long shot.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 17, 2009 at 7:15 AM

As for Nick, this is his season. He’s been in the league 2 years, and he has played more than most rookies get to play because of injuries, etc. Yet, he looks pretty much like the same guy who stepped on the court as a rookie.

He does know the offense a little better so that he is in the right place a little more often. And he did show some intensity on defense during the last 3d of last season — the best sign so far that he can develop into a competent NBA player.

Comment from millie mill
Time June 17, 2009 at 8:24 AM

Wow that was very nice Tom:!:

Comment from doclinkin
Time June 17, 2009 at 9:50 AM

? Testing testing. I posted two messages on this piece last night, looks like they’re gone right now. Maybe I’m being censored…

My two comments:

Johnny Flynn will be a solid pro. He has fewer instantly NBA-ready skills than other players in the draft, but he’s got deep reserves of energy, passion, competitiveness, and solid knowledge of the game. Players like that tend to improve. What he has over most of the players in this draft though is a certain leadership quality, poise, people like him and want to do what he does. And what he does is compete. Adding him to a squad instantly improves attitude and work ethic. Born leader.

On Blatche: he’s the best graduating senoir in this year’s draft. Okay he reshirted (literally) his freshman year with an injury, but he’s poised to make some real improvements now that he’s begun to mature just a little.

Course he needs to begin to work out in the weight room a little harder. Maybe this guy can inspire him:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzczOMJoOXQ

(Javale working on his core strength).

Comment from Rick
Time June 17, 2009 at 9:53 AM

Nick looks like he added some muscle from the vegas summer league videos. And he was scoring at will, of course there is no defense in that league.

I would gladly be Andray’s agent. First thing I would do would be to setup a website for him. He does a lot of good things in the community and needs some good publicity. Yes, he has made some teenage mistakes and still goes out on the town a lot looking for his wife, but that seems to be all anyone talks about. Not the basketball camp he runs, or the charity events he attends.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 17, 2009 at 10:11 AM

Great to hear that stuff about Andray, and yes he needs someone to set him up a website and get some coverage for those good activities — why don’t you approach him about it, Rick? He needs a Twitter account and a Facebook page too.

doc — you’re not saying we need to have NBA rookie expectations of Andray, are you? He’s young, but he has played in the league and against NBA competition. I can’t think of anyone who came into the league right out of high school and only started to get good 4 years later — who’m I missing?

Agree with everything you say about Flynn. Those things will lead to a long career in the NBA — and to success in the rest of his life too! He is a *great* kid. But they don’t mean he’ll ever be a productive starting point guard. We’ll see.

Comment from dmac
Time June 17, 2009 at 10:41 AM

Tom i disagree on bringing Big Ben from Cleveland to dump his salary and get a hair cut. I just don’t want AJ going to Cleveland not unless EG told you something we don’t know.
Rick we got to get u that agent job for Dray.
Tom will u have time to do some psych evaluations with Nick and Dray?
Tom what Doc is saying is that Dray has just graduated form the NBA apprenticeship on job training program for High School players looking for a permanent job and team to stay with or go to.
All I can say is like Doc, Johnny Flynn is going to make somebody very happy. He is like a muscular version of AI who actually plays the point.

Tom for number two picks: 5 choices
1- Austin Daye- Gonzaga
2- Rodrique Beaubois
3- Josh Heyfelt- Gonzaga
4- Dante Cunningham- Villanova
5- Jermain Taylor- Central Florida

Comment from M2
Time June 17, 2009 at 10:46 AM

Jermaine O’Neal

Comment from millie mill
Time June 17, 2009 at 11:32 AM

Tom,
I was going to say the same thing. Jermaine O’Neal!!!
After 4 years Jermaine O’Neal numbers were worst than Blatche.

Doc,
Nice video on Mr. McGee!!

JaVale needs a nickname. What do you guys think it should be?

Comment from millie mill
Time June 17, 2009 at 11:57 AM

I think Caption America would be a good nickname because of the saluting thing he dose.

http://captain-america.us/articles/captain_america.jpg

Comment from Babakism
Time June 17, 2009 at 12:31 PM

You don’t start a deffensively defficient player because he is a good rebounder, you do it because Jamison is a SCORER. Even with Jamison starting at PF he still splits close to half his minutes playing SF anyways. Remember when we had Jarod Jeffries playing “SG”but he usually deffended the 4 spot jamison the 3 and butler the 2????

Why do we need to have more 3 point shooting???? Gil, Caron, Jamison, Nick, James, if he’s healthy with his head on straight thrown in Deshawn can all shoot the 3. Thats one of our biggest problems is we get a lead and get happy and we bring the ball down court, might make a pass or 2 but never get the ball within 17 feet of the basket and then jack up a 3. Because its usually Gil or Jamison and sometimes Caron they will go in a decent percentage of the time so nobody cares. But thats not how you win basketball games. You gotta take the ball to the hoop and drive. People think you have to have a big man like tim duncan to put his back to the basket and score inside. FALSE, penatration and slashing to the basket is just as effective at attacking a defense. The last thing we need is a bunch of guys chillin out at the 3 line.

Jermaine Oneal’s numbers were worse than Blatche his first 4 years in the league. However, that is because he played less minutes. If you break the numbers down to a per minute average they are about the same. The difference is jermaine came into the league at 6-11 220lbs of skin and bones and after 4 years added 40 lbs of muscle. Andray Blatche is still the same 6-11 245 pounds of flab he was when he came into the league. The determining factor on Blatche having a good year will be the first time you watch him shoot free throws. If you can see stretch marks and or vains on those arms or shoulders the future looks good lol

Javale looks kinda like Gumby whenever he stretches out for an oop or dunk. Gumby is not a very good nickname but perhaps it can inspire one lol

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 17, 2009 at 1:00 PM

Hey Griff

Yes it is great to see all of the blogging family back as we get closer to the draft. I am excited about the new coaching staff and the health of our team. Also I believe this draft will give all the fans a true indication of what we will look like under Flip and the make up of our team. And I have to admit after reading all of the comments, we have some great fans!

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time June 17, 2009 at 1:11 PM

dmac — I don’t want that trade for Wallace either. I was just saying what I thought would be someone’s reason for doing such a trade.

Great point about Jermaine O’Neal having been drafted out of high school and developing slowly.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 17, 2009 at 1:39 PM

Millie, lol…I like that for McGee aka Captain America aka G.I. Javele right?

Comment from millie mill
Time June 17, 2009 at 1:53 PM

I like G.I. Javale!!

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time June 17, 2009 at 2:59 PM

I like that one as well Millie….

Comment from doclinkin
Time June 17, 2009 at 3:30 PM

JVMcG al ready has two highly useable nicknames:

Caron calls him Lemonhead. Since he looks like the logo from the lemonheads candy:

http://theepochs.files.wordpress.com/2008/03/lemonhead.jpg

And his gamer tag (and youtube and twitter, and flicker, etc, etc) is:

bigdaddywookie.

The BDW. Big Wook. Wookdaddy. That works for me.

Comment from Babakism
Time June 17, 2009 at 7:50 PM

he looks nothing like a wookie and he better add a few pounds to that frame before he starts calling himself Big Daddy anything lol

Comment from imawizkid
Time June 19, 2009 at 6:15 PM

With the 5th pick in the 2009 NBA draft the washington wizards pick POINT GUARD stephen curry!!!!!!!!!!!!!! thats hows its gonna go down stop being curry haters hes a great PG and a very very very good shooter love him or hate him hes gonna be a wizard