Washington Wizards Blog

Comment from datonypony
Time July 22, 2010 at 1:56 AM

SportWiz will you have updates on Seraphin any time soon?

Comment from JWALL
Time July 22, 2010 at 7:48 AM

If there is one team that can possibly pull off a Chris Paul trade is Orlando. They have that expiring VC contract which would could make the deal doable. The only thing is I believe the Hornets are going to want draft picks as well as Jameer Nelson. I know Superman has already told ownership that he wants CP.

I notice that Josh Howard is still listed on the Wiz roster as a FA. Most teams when they don’t pick up an option on a player they don’t list that player still on their active roster. Umm? Could it be? Maybe? You don’t think so.
Why not?

Comment from JWALL
Time July 22, 2010 at 7:55 AM

The commish would probably have to deal with a lot of angry owners if CP somehow lands in LA with Kobe and Gasol. What would the rest of the league say then?

Comment from maggicman11
Time July 22, 2010 at 8:19 AM

Had the weirdest dream last night…
We traded Gil for Yao
signed sun yue, and signed Lin from dallas’ SL team. we had our own chinese national team in DC! lol.. Ted would make Flip play them all together at times. Yao, Yi, Lin, and Yue. lol.. everyone in chinatown bought season tickets!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 8:31 AM

lol….Sometimes owners need to just sit back and sign the checks….Money may be power, but it definitely isn’t knowledge….LOL….

some of these situations remind me of pdiddy……can’t sing a lick, go get singers in your record, say a few hooks, and promote the record as yours, or act like he can sing…..Owners weren’t always trying to be the face you saw first or voice we always heard. Go get a “buffer” so they won’t seem like “idiots” sometimes. imo, there are a lot of “insecure” individuals, when you feel that you must not only be the owners, but also be the face we see, and the voice that we hear all of the time…just my opinion.

Comment from neal
Time July 22, 2010 at 9:04 AM

magicman, maybe you should reduce the rice in your diet.

Comment from SportzWiz
Time July 22, 2010 at 9:33 AM

JWall so is oberto and Singleton. All nba.com rosters are setup that way.

Comment from SportzWiz
Time July 22, 2010 at 9:34 AM

Seraphin was going through non-contact drills during mini-camp. No update regarding him otherwise.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 22, 2010 at 9:50 AM

Thanks for the KS update — can’t wait to see him.

Singleton would be great if we can fit him in. He’d be a good mentor for Booker too.

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time July 22, 2010 at 10:58 AM

Tom M. – Regarding the #10 for the Wizards: I believe that the number was retired during the 2008-2009 season in honor of Earl Monroe.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 11:13 AM

Next contest:

Guess the name of the next book by Dave Berri

1) Can I get a Win
2) Is a win really a win
3) All of my formulas Win
3) When am I going to stop using the word Win, in the title of my books

LOL…..

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 11:56 AM

AB had a mini interview with Russ…he’s walking on foot, should be fully recovered by training camp (estimate).

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 22, 2010 at 12:17 PM

Whose going to pee in their pants if Javale makes TEAM USA?

I think it’s going to be between Tyson Chandler and Javale for the 2nd Center Spot. (I’m giving Brook Lopez the first spot).

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 12:51 PM

You mean we have to have a reason to pee in our pants…oops…lol….

I’m glad for the young man. He has a majority of the masterminds at his disposal, and no pressure to perform. I hope he sops it all up like a biscuity w/ gravy

Comment from maggicman11
Time July 22, 2010 at 12:56 PM

dcbutler- I think i saw him in the “all i do is win” remix video! maybe thats the next title.. lol..

Comment from maggicman11
Time July 22, 2010 at 12:58 PM

Neal- I think your right, but too late. i already had take out for lunch. =)

Comment from maggicman11
Time July 22, 2010 at 1:02 PM

as for Owners being seen and heard, i think its a marketing tool. Teams want to be marketable and recognizable around the world. sometimes the team itself isnt good enough to do it so the owners need to make controversial comments or just get in the media somehow to bring attention to their team.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 22, 2010 at 1:22 PM

draftazoid: “I think it’s going to be between Tyson Chandler and Javale for the 2nd Center Spot. (I’m giving Brook Lopez the first spot).”

Well yeah… given that those are the only 3 Centers on the roster!

Comment from millie mill
Time July 22, 2010 at 1:27 PM

Kevin Seraphin Individual Wizards Workout
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePdlkX1tnhc&feature=fvsr

Comment from maggicman11
Time July 22, 2010 at 1:30 PM

Brooke Lopez is Definitely the starter. I think Javale has an advantage just bcuz he is younger and can make a longer commitment.. plus his potential is MUCH higher than Chandler which can allow him deveolp into a better player. if i want to win today id go with chandler, but since they are building a program, id be surprised if Javale didnt make it. I also think Derrick rose will replace Chauncey Billips for that same reason.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 1:47 PM

lol…@maggicman, he can use the soundtrack on his site….lol…

If Seraphin’s NBA career is measurable by the amount of times that we are sharing his U-Tube career, he’s an automatic all-star

Brooke, then Javale….Tyson may be picked, but he is more like the 1.0 version of Javale.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 1:49 PM

It seems like Tyson stays on IR more than he stays on the court…too risky to have him on the team.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 22, 2010 at 1:52 PM

How’s your French?

http://www.rtl.fr/fiche/5945678022/nba-kevin-seraphin-j-ai-vraiment-des-chances-de-jouer.html

At about 7:15 in he says (in French) — “my first choice of team to play for was absolutely Washington”

He talks about Wall in positive terms. Then says that The Wiz want him to concentrate on defense first.

He says that *many* NBA teams were in touch w/ him and his agent to express interest: Oklahoma, Cleveland, Portland, Atlanta “at first, and then several others as well”

Then, naturally, the interviewer asks him about Miami. Seraphin chuckles and says “we are going to kick their butts.” Actually, that’s not what he said. He said what everybody says: “they should be awfully good but we’ll have to see.”

He goes on to say that Washington has him on a program — I assume workouts and so forth.

Can’t wait to see this kid in action.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 1:58 PM

ROFL….I rest my case….LOL…

Can we get him on a floor with his current peers please…LOL

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 2:00 PM

btw-Tom,

Have you heard from any of the kids?

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 2:05 PM

Why in the world are they still showing the “opening” of usa training camp on NBATV?

Need fresh film.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 2:15 PM

Paul and Carmelo want to go to NY with Amare…..Paul to meet with owners of Hornets next week….

A new NBA is opening…..please get some legit bodies around Wall.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time July 22, 2010 at 2:41 PM

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 12:51 PM

You mean we have to have a reason to pee in our pants…oops…lol….

- – -
um, maybe you should check on the TYPE of surgery you had … i hope your medical staff weren’t the same people that worked on gil’s knee …

re: superfriend teams

i love them! i am rooting for cp3 to join amare and melo in nyc 2011. do the knicks fans deserve them? yes, because we’ll have the heat/knicks rivalry again. you can argue that the lakers have kobe/gasol/bynum and the thunder have westbrook/durant/green and these two groups can certainly challenge the wade/james/bosh trio.

if pro basketball talents continue to elevate to levels unseen, we’ll start seeing 3 legitimate superstars on each of the 30 teams. the previous “big 3s” (i.e., gil/caron/butler; cassell/allen/robinson) have nothing on these new versions. parity is what makes organized pro sports great – and this “clusterization of talent” theory works in my mind.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time July 22, 2010 at 2:43 PM

lol – i meant (gil/caron/antawn)

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 22, 2010 at 2:43 PM

Hornets owners are going to laugh (well, maybe laught before and after the meeting) in Chris Paul’s face.
Chris Paul has almost “zero” leverage with the Hornets.
He has two years left on his contract before he can opt out, ala Carmelo Anthony.

He has $31million left for the two years. After this year, if the new CBA does not change, he will most likely get the same offer Melo has of a 3 year $65million extension. (tough to pass that up).

Why would the Hornets want to trade their Cash Cow? Trading a superstar never favors the team losing the superstar.

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 22, 2010 at 2:50 PM

Chris Paul is just going to have to suck it up for 2 years until he hits free agency like Dwade, Lebron, Bosh, Amare, Dirk and Pierce this year.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 2:54 PM

Outside of CP3, what do the hornets have? No need in keeping him, if he doesn’t want to be there, and the whole league knows it….the longer they wait, the less leverage the owners have, but there is no rush.

15 Mil a year is below avg for a superstar these days…lol…

LOL @ Wiz fusion.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 3:09 PM

ON twitter,,,”from wizznutzz-do 1hr special to raise $ for New Orleans then blow up levees RT@KingJames cp3 do what’s best for you and your family….”

rough crowd….not cute, but I chuckled a lil…

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time July 22, 2010 at 3:39 PM

as good as cp3 has been, one knock on him is durability. he’s like larry hughes in terms of missing time season after season.

while i understand draftazoid’s sentiment on leverage, i don’t think it matters as much these days. and you can blame sports agents for becoming too powerful for their own good. i reference the haynesworth issue a month ago where he was forgetting about his guaranteed money’s obligations and demanded out nonetheless. while the skins front office stayed firm, i really believed it was negative commentary from albert’s teammates that got him to shape up a bit with his complaining. haynesworth knew that no team would want him if continues to sulk like an overgrown baby (and he is overgrown).

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time July 22, 2010 at 3:40 PM

as good as cp3 has been, one knock on him is durability. he’s like larry hughes in terms of missing time season after season.

while i understand draftazoid’s sentiment on leverage, i don’t think it matters as much these days. and you can blame sports agents for becoming too powerful for their own good. i reference the haynesworth issue a month ago where he was p*ssyfooting his guaranteed money’s obligations and demanded out nonetheless. while the skins front office stayed firm, i really believed it was negative commentary from albert’s teammates that got him to shape up a bit with his b*tching. haynesworth knew that no team would want him if continues to sulk like an overgrown baby (and he is overgrown).

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 22, 2010 at 4:34 PM

Hey Wiz-fusion,
NFL players force their way to trades all the time. They take massive punishment physically.
The NBA is not the same. I don’t recall any player forcing a trade. Does any one know of an NBA player that has forced a trade, much less a trade when there is 2 years left on a contract.
Even Melo has backed off demanding a trade. He knows that Denver is holding all the cards. (Denver is holding a piece of paper that will pay him $65million smackers).

I would like to see CP3 hold out and not report for training camp. It would be interesting to see if ESPN kills him or defends him. And what about the city of New Orleans? Will they put him in the same camp as LBJ in Cleveland.
Now I want to see him hold out. It would be very entertaining.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 22, 2010 at 5:05 PM

I am *so not interested* in where Chris Paul does or doesn’t want to play, or where Carmelo Anthony does or doesn’t want to play. Or what LBJ tweets on the subject.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 22, 2010 at 5:26 PM

What I learned from the Seraphin workout:

That is one BIG young man!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 6:28 PM

Sorry Tom,

Can you please provide your personal email account, so that we can gain your utmost approval in regards to what we blog about. I know the sale of the blog, to your company is imminent, and we don’t want to pee off the formula gods.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 6:33 PM

ESPN, just put up a chart showing how all of the hornets (about four of them) were traded to other teams after playing with them for xxx amount of years

none of top five picks have stayed N.O. for six seasons prior to being traded:

Baron Davis, Mourning, Larry Johnson, Kendall Gill, JR Reid, Paul entering his sixth……hmmmm, I wonder what our stat is

Comment from Rick
Time July 22, 2010 at 6:52 PM

I like that Seraphin video. He’s got a lot to work on, but there is a spark. His shooting mechanics are no good. his off-hand does some crazy stuff. But he shoots with good arc (many bigs have a flat shot) and he has nice touch. His footwork seemed pretty good too when we was doing the post-up drop steps. He also looks out of shape, but that will change easiest of all I hope.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 22, 2010 at 7:55 PM

dcbutler — “I” am not interested doesn’t mean *you* shouldn’t be interested. Be interested in whatever you want to be interested in.

But I can’t motivate myself to care about CP3’s desire to move teams (not that it’s hard to understand, btw) nor about Carmelo (not that he’s expressed any desire to move from Denver).

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 7:58 PM

Thank you for your Blessings…LOL…May more formulas be in your immediate future

In other NBA News, the lakers are going after Theo Ratliffe and Matt Barnes….WHERE’S our tenacity at??? Ok, I digress.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 8:14 PM

For AB Fans…ie Getabig, gotabig, notoriousbig

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/wizardsinsider/2010/07/despite-foot-injury-andray-bla.html?wpisrc=nl_buzz&wpisrc=nl_buzz

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 8:22 PM

Celtics sign marquis daniels for 2.5 million???????????

what a waste.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time July 22, 2010 at 8:33 PM

@ draftazoid

look no further than the wiz to see how players “forced” a trade elsewhere because the team was sucking.

let’s turn back the clock to about 5 months ago …

oh yes – how about butler and jamison saying “stuff” to the media about how they shouldn’t be here if there is nothing going on? grunfeld obliged and pulled off 2 big trades. antawn is now stuck in cleveland and caron’s contract is very tradable – meaning he doesn’t have a lot of stability on where he may be in late february 2011 if the mavs don’t achieve what cuban wants them to achieve.

going back to your nfl point – one of the reasons why players force to be traded is because salaries are NOT GUARANTEED – only signing bonuses are guaranteed. guys like, say, chris brown, was underpaid from what he produced and he has to “force himself out of a bad contract” so that he can get the money he thinks he deserves. nba contracts, however, are all guaranteed.

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time July 22, 2010 at 8:46 PM

dcbutler357 – Thanks, I saw the Post story on Blatche today. I’m glad that he is continuing to do whatever workout he can while his foot mends. What’s your status?

BTW, I think that the Cavs should sign DeShawn Stevenson just to annoy the heck out of LeBronze when the Heat plays in Cleveland. I apologize if I have posted that thought before.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 8:53 PM

No problem, thanks for asking. Soft caste for a month then another apparatus for 8 weeks then rehab. six month injury at the least.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 22, 2010 at 8:54 PM

dcbutler — Theo Ratliff is 37, but he’s still a better player than Armstrong. Or he was last year anyway. Who knows, he may prefer to play for the Lakers over the Wizards?

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 22, 2010 at 8:57 PM

Gotabig — that’s a great idea that Cleveland should sign DeShawn!! I think he’s still under contract in Dallas, but you can be sure they’d trade him. Does anyone have Dan Gilbert’s email address?

dcbutler — I think there’s room at the weight bench right next to Andray. Keep on keeping on!

Comment from neal
Time July 22, 2010 at 9:04 PM

Jamison and Butler didn’t force trades. Those trades were EG’s (and maybe Leonis’s) idea, although he was probably aware that the players also wanted to go.

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time July 22, 2010 at 9:36 PM

dcbutler357 – Does your occupation allow you to keep working during the rehab?

Comment from ChenierFan
Time July 22, 2010 at 10:15 PM

This Chris Paul thing is very troubling. The Hornets have to trade the guy because obviously he will not be giving his best effort.

After James merged with other all-stars to form an instant contender it looks like Paul wants to do the same. What James did could set a very bad precedent for the league.

This trend could spell doom for small-market teams, (like it does in MLB).

So the question is, David Stern, what are you going to do about it? Your pretty good at suspending players who don’t pull the corporate image (see..Gil). This time you’ve got a real problem on your hands. It is more than just corporate image at stake here. But maybe, you do want to see the glamour teams win every year with the small-market teams acting as a high-level development league for them.

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time July 22, 2010 at 10:29 PM

yeah they did not force a trade and the AJ to the Cavs trade was made becaue they thought AJ could help the Cavs and win him a ring.. Caron still wants to play here i read that in the post from his own mouth “i would love to play in DC again” but thats all in the past no need to cast them in a bad light just did not work out here!

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 22, 2010 at 10:43 PM

Seraphin is involved in non-contract drills….. Thanks SportzWiz. Thanks for the Video Millie Mill I really enjoyed it. His shooting mechanics seem to be much better the closer he is. He just needs to use the same mechanics he uses closer in on his outside shot. He will be fine.

Andre is walking and should be ready for training camp…..Thanks DCB. Sounds like the whole “family” may be together from the start

Draftazoid… I have decided not to wear pants on the day that TEAM USA is announced to avoid an embarassing moment such as you describe

Mr. Mandel…. lol… just an observation. Every time somebody brings up somebody to bring in…. if you like him we get the review…. if you don’t like him we still get the review BUT with the disclaimer… “but he is better than Hilton Armstrong”. LOL… cracks me up. I think the consensus of most of the bloggers here is that Most players in the NBA are better than Hilton Armstrong and probabaly some that have been out of the NBA for 10 year are better than Hilton Armstrong No more disclaimer needed LOL

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 10:44 PM

text from matt barnes:

Its official I AM A LOS ANGLES LAKER. I wanna thank u for all ur patients and understanding. This is a dream come true!!! Good lookn Kobe

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 10:50 PM

LOL…@TOMM,

Getabig, yes i can continue to work. Since they invented telework/blackberry.etc, a person could be in the bahamas, and still be on the clock….

I think EG still has some maneuvering going on. We don’t have our final roster yet, imo. Besides, Dec marks the beginning of trading new signees….i think

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 22, 2010 at 10:50 PM

That being said…. Watch that bum come in and average 25 and 15 with 3 blocks LOL

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 22, 2010 at 10:54 PM

DCB… Ernid “did say” he was still looking for a wing player. I can’t remember if he said “veteran” wing player or just wing player? But I’m expecting at least one more move

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 22, 2010 at 10:55 PM

However if the wing player he has in mind is Morrison I’d just as soon stand pat.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 22, 2010 at 10:56 PM

Ernid? never said I could type

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 11:04 PM

I honestly hope Ted is looking at other GM Options.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 22, 2010 at 11:06 PM

We could haved waited until training camp to sign Hilton Armstrong…..I guess EG owed someone a favor…lol…

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 22, 2010 at 11:24 PM

This is the time of year Ernie is expected to “shine”. Everyone knows his draft skills are a little questionable, but, this time of year is supposed to be his forte. The Yi for Ross thing I thought was a good move, but, Hilton Armstrong? He gave us Oberto last year and follows that up with Armstrong this year. I can almost understand Oberto last year….. we had no money. We don’t have that excuse this year. With the deep draft and so many promising young guys going undrafted I thought “for sure” a few of them would hit our summer league. Nope… Hilton Armstong was his best attempt. Oh well. Only a year.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 22, 2010 at 11:32 PM

Actually… lol… we could have waited until Hades froze over to sign him

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time July 23, 2010 at 12:13 AM

@ neal and W4L

so, if you tell your mom you want to leave the house because you want to be independent (and because you’re 60 years old) and she finally kicks you out, don’t you think that your actions, a forceful one, prompted how she ultimately acted?

grunfeld always has 2 options with players: either trade them (releasing them is kinda like trading them because they’re no longer wizard assets) or keep them. when his “star” players started to yap a bit much about wanting to leave for a better situation (i.e., caron) and with jamison pulling the double-sworded technique so that he doesn’t look like the bad guy (i.e., telling the media he’ll stay because he’s the captain – yet he would like an opportunity to get a ring because he’s not young anymore), grunfeld had enough pressure to make the moves.

if neither caron nor antawn made one peep to the washington post about the “bad situation” they were in back in february 2010, then i would say there was no “forced trade” scenario when they got traded. however, since they did express something akin to wanting to leave for greener pastures, i’d classify that as a forceful trade action. grunfeld didn’t need additional reasons from those 2 guys to pull off the trades – he looked at the pollins and decided that reducing the luxury tax to zero was the best course of action and it was coincidental that those actions also helped caron and antawn get the hell out of dodge.

bottomline is that you can’t think of forced trades literally in the nba. but, if you think about how players manipulate the gm with how they say certain things to the media so they get traded (like what chris paul is doing right now), then you’ll have the equivalent of forced trades. caron and antawn didn’t need to come out and say explicitly “i want to get traded” for the situation to be a forced trade situation.

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time July 23, 2010 at 1:34 AM

if i told my mother i wanted to move out why whould she have to kick me out ? just saying… but no saying that it was a bad situation was just pointing out a fact that it was.. twan is old been that way for awile now and Caron was doing what he could but was hurting his self and the team by doing too much.. this move was more of a gift to EG than to Caron or AJ because he dumped huge money and got alot of cap space by doing so i could just as easy say that EG forced the trade by wanting to go in another direction and at the same time geting a high draft pick but that would not make it far to him.. it was just the right move for all partys well till LBJ left the Cavs then AJ got the shaft lol

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 23, 2010 at 2:56 AM

The RASBERRIES to Caron and Antawn ! When Flip got here they didn’t listen to a word he said… just kept playing the old sandlot ball they had been since they got here… it was time for them to go.

New Owner… totally different team.

not so sure I agree with all the moves Ernie has made to date, but, I’m at least hopeful for one more competent wing player before we to go training camp.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 23, 2010 at 3:03 AM

I liked Martin and Hudson’s games in SL both on the offensive… but more on the defensive side. It seems we are trying to build a defense first team that can score in bunches. I hope Lester and Cartier get their chance. They are both very good on both sides of the ball. Worked very well together once or twice in SL too

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 6:55 AM

wiz4l,

Will there be a pt III?

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 23, 2010 at 7:00 AM

Great News On McGEE:
From ESPN’s Sekou Smith who attended the last scrimmage yesterday:
“After Durant, I think the star of the 10 minutes was McGee. The last-minute addition to the roster was active. He had a block, a couple of interior shot-contests and a few strong rebounds, two of them offensive and one of those a huge put-back dunk off a Durant miss. McGee did go 0-for-2 from the line though.”

The whole article is here:
http://hangtime.blogs.nba.com/2010/07/22/thursday-scrimmage-impressions/

BLOWING UP BEFORE OUR EYES (and Coach K’s)

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 23, 2010 at 7:08 AM

Saturday night is the Team USA Showcase game with:

July 24 Las Vegas
2010 USA Basketball Showcase
10 p.m. ET
ESPN2

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 7:48 AM

Go get ‘em, JaVale. Very nice.

Thinking about a wing player for the Wiz, I note that Matt Barnes (who wasn’t coming here in any case) has signed with the Lakers, causing Ron Artest to tweet:

“Ron Artest: Matt is tougher than nails Tougher than a penguin on steroids Tougher than richard Simmons trying to take off his spandex Twitter”

Ron has a career after basketball, that’s for sure!

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 7:53 AM

The Bulls will sign Kurt Thomas to back up Noah. He is BTHA (anyone know what that stands for?)

(Thomas is even older than Ratliff, btw!)

Comment from Phemy
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:00 AM

…yeah, go get em Big Daddy Wookie! Make your mother proud ;>

What do you guys think of Shannon Brown? If we need another 2? He should be around 24, so not that old. Question is how much he will cost… but I don’t think the lakers will keep him after they got Barnes.
But eh, he will probably get overpaid by the nets, clips etc. anyways…

Ahhhh just let the season start already. Or the World Championship if JaVale is on the Squad. To bad Nowitzki (and Kaman) will not play for Germany :/

Schönen Tag euch allen,
Greetz

Comment from millie mill
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:07 AM

Enough about Caron and Antwan. They are not with the Wizards anymore and neither will ever win a championship unless the move to Miami in the next six years.

Miami Heat team is so stacked just beating them will be like winning a championship in it’s self. I really think the Heat have a chance to have the best regular season record ever.

Martin and Hudson should both make the team. They should at least go to preseason with the team.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:11 AM

Shannon Brown benefitted from playing on a good team. He doesn’t really do that much, and certainly not consistently. Athleticism but not much else. I’d rather have an athletic undrafted rookie to develop (Mikhail Torrance for example).

Of course Brown would be BTAM, and he’s also BTHA !

Comment from Phemy
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:22 AM

… so we’d rather get Rudy Fernandez, am I right?
To bad we got no real trade value to get him…

And I have no idea what btam and btha stands for!

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:38 AM

BTHA

if you re-read the context of Tom M’s post, BTHA should stand for “better than his age”

Comment from neal
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:39 AM

An article in the Post this morning said Thornton is switching to PF. I guess except for Booker our SF’s are yet to be named.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:41 AM

@ millie mill

having a stacked team doesn’t mean they’ll win championships. look at the yankees and red sox – aren’t they stacked every year?

i think playoffs are a pretty good lock for the heat, but that’s about all i can vouch for with team superfriends.

Comment from millie mill
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:52 AM

What do you guys think about Nick Young playing Small Forward? He said that he added weight just in case there are minutes at the small forward position.

http://www.csnwashington.com/07/15/10/Wiz-Extreme-The-Clock-Is-Ticking-For-You/landing_v3.html?blockID=271912&feedID=6356

@wizards_fusion
I think basketball is a little different than baseball in regards to having a stacked team. There is only one batter or pitcher at a time in baseball. Basketball have five scores at a time.

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 23, 2010 at 9:39 AM

I think Nick saw that he is the man waving the white towel on the bench because of the Wall, Gilbert and Hinrich 3 guard rotation if he stays exclusively as a shooting guard.
I would love to see Nick try to battle for rebounds on a nightly basis. His head is at elbow height for most bigs when rebounding. He will take alot of punishment. Can Nick rebound?

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:27 AM

How about we package all of our excessive stuff in a bundle and ship it somewhere and get what we need instead of continuosly putting people in positions that they can’t perform in…

Are the wiz having financial problems???? If so, I hope we can keep the blog. NY can’t play the 2, now we expect him to be a three….Thornton isn’t big enough to play the four….i’ll be glad when we can move forward, without the excess baggage.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:44 AM

B asic T elecommunications A ccess M ethod
Black to Africa Movement (BTAM)

British Toy and Hobby Association
Beauty Professionals and Beauty Therapist Association (BThA)

Also, in the military or govt, each agency will use the same Acronym and each one will stand for something different….ROFL….

lol..sometimes playing riddle me this will put you further behind the eight ball…lol…

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:50 AM

Sad………

Stephen Jackson’s home robbed, wife held at gunpoint
Thu Jul 22,2010 8:49 PM ET By Matt Moore
Don’t mention the word “punk.” Don’t throw around the word “thug” like it somehow excuses this. The NBA world (and the comment section of this blog) is perpetually hammered with unfair accusations about the histories of its players. There’s simply no excuse for making light of, or justifying the terror that Stephen Jackson’s family went through today.

The Charlotte forward’s home was robbed today, with his wife at home. Intruders got past the gated community where he lives and held his wife at gunpoint. They eventually locked her in a bathroom before escaping the premises. From WSOCTV 9 in Charlotte:

According to a police report, the men held her at gunpoint while they took valuables from the home, including several Louis Vuitton wallets, jewelry, a stun gun and a 9 millimeter handgun. The suspects then locked her in a bathroom, police said.

Stephen Jackson, regardless of his past crimes or behavior, was a victim today. His wife was a victim, his family were victims. There’s no justification for what they’ve gone through today, though there will inevitably be reminders of Jackson’s history with gun possession and battery. The player called by Tim Duncan as “the ultimate teammate” will not receive the same benefit of compassion that another citizen would merit, and that’s the way the world is. It doesn’t make it any less unfortunate that he and his family had to go through this today.

We’ll keep you updated as the story develops.

Comment from millie mill
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:51 AM

I know BTHA stands for Better Than Hilton Armstrong. I have no clue what BTAM stands for.

Comment from Phemy
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:59 AM

.. better than Adam Morris. Alright, we figured it out

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:07 AM

all the way from Germany, go Phemy

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:10 AM

hmmmmmm, we couldn’t find a way to throw a plug in there for Dave Berri

MWBTAM-More Wins if Better Than Adam Morrison
AWWBTHA-Always Win When Better Than Hilton Armstrong…

lol…

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:26 AM

hmmmmmm, EG ranked 18th…wouldn’t that mean we would be in the hunt for the lottery each year

http://www.bulletsforever.com/2010/7/22/1582794/ranking-ernie-grunfeld-among-his

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:32 AM

Technical Issue:
How do you add your picture on the Blog? Thanks.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:33 AM

ROFL….Maybe we should just play without a small forward…heck the NBA is changing anyway…play with three guards or 2 power forwards

slim pickings?:

Therefore, that leaves only Josh Howard, Rasual Butler, Devin Brown, Marquis Daniels, Antoine Wright and Keith Bogans remaining from that original list. There are other options of course, such as (deep breath) Rodney Carney, Joe Alexander, Michael Finley (shudder), Devean George (shudder), Joey Graham, Stephen Graham, Trenton Hassell, Jarvis Hayes, Dominic McGuire, Tracy McGrady (shudder), Adam Morrison (shudder), Sasha Pavlovic, Bobby Simmons, Jerry Stackhouse, Ime Udoka, Damien Wilkins, Quinton Ross and, of course, Cartier Martin, but …

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:34 AM

for pictures you have to use avatar? i don’t see it up top….

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:48 AM

That was a pretty good article on Ernie. Some of it I agree such as de-valuing the draft by trading away two top 5 picks.
The article failed to mention that Ernie picked up $6million from Chicago on the Kirk Hinrich trade because Ernie was smart enough to make that into two trades (Seraphin pick up). So if we stay under the cap then having more cap space means nothing. Kirk will actually cost the Wizards $11million for 2 years instead of $17million.

Comment from millie mill
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:48 AM

Re-post/Cut and paste from way back about how to add a picture…..

Go to gravatar.com and sign up for a free account using the same email that you used to sign up on this blog (note: For the people that have more than one email account if you don’t remember what email you made make a post and I will send you an email to the email listed to let you know.)

2.You will receive an email from gravatar.com, login using your name here as your nickname (note: it will only accept lowercase so in my case I used sportzwiz) and make a password which I believe has to be both letters and numbers.

3. Upon submitting that information you will be directed to another page. On the next page hit the “add one by clicking here” link. This will allow you to add your personal avatar.

4. You can select an image from your computer or the web. Choose the option that you would like to use. You will then have to attach it.

5. After attaching the picture you will have to crop it so that it fits into the avatar size. To crop your photo drag your mouse over the picture.

6. After you save the photo make sure it is g rated.

7. You will be taken to one final page where it says “Choose an image (below) to use for the selected email (above) or add a new one”. Click on the picture and then hit confirm. It will take approximately 10 minutes before it shows up on all of your posts.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:51 AM

thanks millie mil, i was about to paste that post.

draftazoid, they mentioned it, but not in the same light, that you did it. all of the costs haven’t been revealed yet (buyout and seraphin salary)

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:52 AM

wow, the gravatar was from halloween 2008….

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:56 AM

okay, who’s missing besides seraphin(only ten players):

Player 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15
Gilbert Arenas $17,730,694 $19,269,308 $20,807,922 $22,346,536 $0

Kirk Hinrich $9,000,000 $8,000,000 $0 $0 $0

John Wall $5,144,280 $5,530,080 $5,915,880 $7,459,924 $9,697,901

Yi Jianlian $4,050,500 $5,403,366 $0 $0 $0

Andray Blatche $3,260,331 $3,520,661 $0 $0 $0

Al Thornton $2,814,196 $3,914,546 $0 $0 $0

Nick Young $2,630,503 $3,695,857 $0 $0 $0

JaVale McGee $1,601,040 $2,462,399 $3,494,144 $0 $0

Trevor Booker $1,240,560 $1,294,920 $1,385,280 $2,350,820 $3,420,443

Hilton Armstrong $0 $0 $0 $0

TOTALS: $47,472,264 $37,614,969 $20,807,922 $22,346,536 $0

Read more: http://hoopshype.com/salaries/washington.htm#ixzz0uWOLssHf

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 23, 2010 at 12:13 PM

Thanks Millie Mill and dcbutler357 for the avatar help.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 12:22 PM

Oh Lawd………..Stewie?…LOL…

Comment from doclinkin
Time July 23, 2010 at 12:25 PM

okay, who’s missing besides seraphin (only ten players):

Hamady N’Diaye. A 2nd rounder thus not guaranteed in the salary calculations.

We’d only need to sign one other player to be legal. Probably a SF.

Personally I’d be happy if it were Josh Howard at a reasonable contract.

Comment from doclinkin
Time July 23, 2010 at 12:25 PM

Plus Seraphin of course.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 12:34 PM

I really don’t understand why we would sign josh howard, he won’t be avail until mid-season, plus at this point it would be better for him to go to a contender….UNLESS we do a sign/trade…lol

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time July 23, 2010 at 12:38 PM

“Maybe we should just play without a small forward…heck the NBA is changing anyway…play with three guards or 2 power forwards” – dcbutler357

I like the way you think dc. The pro game is all about matchups, but it’s just a matter of forcing the other team to match with you rather than you trying to match with them. If the two PFs can beat up on the other team’s SF and PF, then the opposition would have to match up. However, if the two PF couldn’t defend the SF/PF, we’d be in trouble. Given the athleticism of many NBA players, I think that you could play two PFs at times during the game and have an advantage. Using three guards to create the same type of mismatches could work also.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 12:47 PM

What “buyout” are you referring to, dcbutler?

Seraphin will cost @ $1.5m this year.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 12:48 PM

Booker is faster than wall and only 6′7″, hopefully he will be our SF at the start of training camp(we played him at PF in SL). Maybe if we could use thornton, ny and someone else, to pick up another sf, then just go sign waste players (ernie’s specialty)

I really like Ellis at GS, 11 mill for four years, that could be a steal. Go sign the center from duke, and call it a day.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 12:49 PM

We have to buyout his french team.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 12:53 PM

W/ Seraphin, Armstrong and N’Diaye, our payroll is @$51m for 12 players. If we have to cut our round 2 pick from the deepest draft in many year, that is a meaningful criticism of Ernie. But I think H will be on the roster all year. If I had to predict, he’s a guy I have confidence in because of his intelligence and motivation.

Ernie says we are looking for another wing player. Depending on who’s out there, it would not surprise me if we added 2 more players to get to 14.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 1:00 PM

Ah, right, dcb — we spend $500K on that, the max an NBA team can pay, and it also costs him $250K. The buyout is $750K.

Monta Ellis? You want to get $44m/4 years in hock to an undersized, non-productive chucker? You’re joking, right? What a *terrible* idea. If we *must* have that kind of guard (and sure don’t), you could get Ramon Sessions for 1/4 the price.

We want an athletic, defensive-minded 2 guard. Cartier Martin would be ok, and so would Hudson. But that’s a training camp issue. If we sign anyone, it’ll likely be a 1-year deal for a veteran.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 1:13 PM

Oh, I thought the total owed to ellis was 11 million…my bad, scratch that thought.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 1:17 PM

i’m really high on Hudson, I think he will make us forget all about NY…..I think i’m really sold on 3 guards or 2 PFs, since we seem like we can’t find a 3 anywhere on this planet.

Booker has to step up and really make a difference.

Comment from dlts20
Time July 23, 2010 at 2:03 PM

McGee shining on Team USA

http://hangtime.blogs.nba.com/2010/07/22/thursday-scrimmage-impressions/

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 2:13 PM

ok, nbatv is showing the same TEAM USA practice all week??? i’m paying extra for the same pictures….ugghhhh

Comment from neal
Time July 23, 2010 at 4:24 PM

J. Howard is 30 years old. Apart from his tendency to get hurt and negative impact on team chemistry, we would be better off with a young guy with some potential who might be with us for the long haul. As several of us has said, if we get enough young guys with some potential one or two is bound to blossum unexpectedly.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 5:03 PM

Anyway, Josh Howard isn’t going to be ready to play until January. I can’t imagine he is in the picture at all.

dcbutler — I like Hudson too. I’ve been following him ever since he was a Junior in college. He’s old for the stage he’s at in his career, but I am *hoping* he makes it with the Wizards. I think he is just a terrific basketball player.

Comment from arterimal
Time July 23, 2010 at 6:38 PM

Anyone know any podcasts wizards related, or washington sports in general(not redskins fan)? I use zune software btw, havent found anything on there…..

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 7:28 PM

WOW!! How did this man become a GM?

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ap-timberwolves-kahnfined

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:26 PM

no part III… i don’t know what to talk about half the time so i just wait till some one throws me a bone and i run with it lmao… on the other hand i hate idea of trying to buy a vet 3.. i would more or less give a undrafted guy a shot and see what he can do than to pay way too much for a guy who will do about the same thing in the long run might as well take all the chances we can now rather than later

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:32 PM

None of us know what to talk about, expecially during this time of year. It’s sit and wait time.

Comment from tyrone2000
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:33 PM

Neal your statement about Josh howard is not true. Howard was a productive team player and he helped the Wizards to be competitive in the games he played. If he did not get hurt the Wizards probably would have made a run at a playoff spot.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:44 PM

tyrone2000 — I’m sorry, but respectfully that seems really a round the bend statement. Howard played a total of 90 minutes for the Wizards, that’s it. And, no, he didn’t play fantastically or anything. And in the previous year or so his production had dropped off quite a lot.

The idea that he was somehow going to propel us into being significantly better makes no sense at all.

Anyway, he isn’t going to play much of next season, and when he does start playing, he is going to be working himself into game shape. He makes no sense at all for a young Wizards team that is *starting over* and building with youth.

To be honest, I’m not sure anyone is going to sign him this Summer. Maybe next Winter when he is healthy again.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 8:46 PM

ok, so signing Howard for half a season, then waiting on him to get in game shape another 10 games will do us how much good. Plus, the fact that he has allegiance to us because we got him from Dallas is just emotions. If he were to acknowledge his wrong doings I would feel a lil better, but him acting like he was a victim doesn’t sit too well. Besides, he’s getting older, time for him want his ring before it’s too late also.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 9:31 PM

Ok, so NY is 6′6 and Thornton is 6′7 and their salaries are about 5.5 mil combined and the options after this season are team and qualifing offers. I’m ready to move them out….I guess both can be made into SFs???

And when I say SFs, I’m referring to SFs that can play with Wall…

Comment from tyrone2000
Time July 23, 2010 at 9:40 PM

Sorry, but I saw Josh howard completely different from you guys. I thought he brought a winning attitude with him that rub off on the players that were left. Only about 4 games but I saw what I saw and it had nothing to do with his time in Dallas.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 9:50 PM

Lakers are starting the season at 92 million in salaries….how much is a championship really worth??

btw-boston at 77 mil and okc at 49 and miami at 48 (i’m sure not final)………..IBD if we aren’t at 48 ourselves…..

all figures are from hoopshype

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 9:51 PM

Beauty/Art is to the eyes of the beholder…..

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:06 PM

His allegiance to us is based on the FACT that we got him out of Dallas, nothing else. That’s what has to do with Dallas. His “legacy” has to do with his time in Dallas, thus far. Once JHowards emotions settle down, he will do with a team closer to a championship.

This is a new era, and what we are trying to do and where we are going is the opposite (somewhat) of what we need from JHoward. Pretty much we are looking for “fillers” for our bench, until we get what we are looking for…i.e. the signing of HA and even looking at Adam Morrison.

We can disagree on this, but I don’t feel we need JHoward, we can get someone to fill the three and start now, rather than almost wait until next season. Once Booker is acclimated, he will/could make an awesome three. He has the speed and the power, just has to get the mindset. Just picture Gee, but maybe quicker, once he gets it together.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:10 PM

Nick was a 3 in college, dcbutler, and he played mostly 3 his rookie year w/ the Wizards. Al was a 4 in college but is a 3 in the league. He is bigger than Nick — 15 lbs heavier, and with a longer standing reach — although they are about the same height.

Al is a below-average 3 in the league — and to tell the truth I don’t understand why. He is a reasonably efficient shooter and he seems to be a very smart guy who you would expect to grasp and improve on his problems. He doesn’t get to the line, he doesn’t rebound, he doesn’t get you assists, and in the end he doesn’t really help you win.

On the other hand, he is a *much* better player than Nick Young! Nick too is a reasonably efficient shooter (especially helped by his ability to hit the 3 and the fact that he shoots a lot of them), but he has Al’s defects in spades. Nick is a terrible rebounder, doesn’t see the floor and therefore gets no assists, gets to the line at a very low rate (which makes no sense given his athleticism and his high FT%), and in general has a low basketball IQ, and it ain’t improving. He’s a bad defender over all and very bad off the ball. He plays on instinct only and hasn’t improved to speak of in his years in the league.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:18 PM

LOL…Okay, ship them out.

I guess because both of them would rather shoot jumpers instead of take it to the rim…from what I recall.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:20 PM

“Allegiance to us” — ? That was a quote *from Howard’s agent,* who is trying to get his guy a job. These are professionals; they play ball *for money.*

“He brought a winning attitude with him” — I haven’t the faintest idea what you are talking about, but as you say you saw what you saw.

You *do* understand that we are not signing any more veterans to multi-year deals this Summer, right? You do understand that we are *rebuilding* based on youth, right? You are aware that Josh Howard is 30 and that he is injured and won’t play ball until some time next year, right?

So if he is no help this season, and we’re not acquiring guys for more than this season… please explain how he fits with the team’s strategy?

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:49 PM

dcbutler — Oh, I think that’s the plan. This is almost certainly their last year as Wizards. We certainly won’t be giving Nick a qualifying offer. He’s not worth what we pay him now, let alone a million $ more. And I can’t imagine us picking up Thornton’s option.

Of course they could both become much better players and change our minds. Doesn’t seem likely, but if so — great.

Btw, with Seraphin, N’Diaye and Armstrong, our payroll is @ $51m for 12 players. I’m assuming we will keep N’Diaye and develop him. Part of Yi’s salary is paid by $$ NJ gave us, ditto Hinrich’s w/ the Bulls’ $.

We are @$6m below the cap. We can easily sign a wing player and maybe 2. I’d be happy if Hudson were one of them. I just looked at his SL stats, and they are outstanding. In his first 79 minutes (1st 4 games), he had only 1 TO. He shot great all week, going 12-25 on 3-point attempts. The only game where he had *any* bad stats was the last one where he played 33 minutes as our point guard and had 5 turnovers and 7 fouls. Even there he made up for it with 9 assists and 5-10 on 3 pointers. I love this kid!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:51 PM

I know this is going to wake up some key boards, but getting rid of Gil’s salary will line us up to really swing for the fences…..

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 10:54 PM

Let’s face it troops, we will need more all-stars than one to get us to the NBA promised land, and I would sure love to have an all-star that will do what’s necessary on and off the court, than one that screams louder and louder for attention, until they get their voice taken from them…but I digress, everyone should get a second chance (the thing is, this is like his second or third second chance).

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:13 PM

If we were we trade Gil for an expiring salary we wouldn’t use the salary space to acquire a big-time FA. I think Ted has reiterated several times that he doesn’t intend doing that.

He intends to build our core through draft picks and trades for young talent. When we’re in a place where one FA can put us over the top, it’ll be different. But, as you say, we’re *a long way* from there.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:24 PM

At this point, i don’t think we would ONLY trade him for an expiring contract. We have basically gotten rid of the major contracts, besides Gil and Heinrich. We can start “solidifying” our base. There’s only so much time to build around wall….imo

Comment from neal
Time July 23, 2010 at 11:54 PM

Actually, I thought Howard played well for the little time he was with us.

But like most of you are saying, we need to be looking at 20-year olds, not 30-year olds. They won’t play as well as Howard now, and we’ll lose some games because of that, but we’re looking for one or two to blossum into long-term assets. Losing a few games now is the price we pay for trying young guys instead of veterans, so that we can win more games later.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:06 AM

DCB… I hope you are healing quickly and feeling well. I love how you keep the blog “jumping” all day long

These days I can’t wait to get on to read the current thread.

Gil is going to help us one way or the other this season. Either he is going to play like the all star he is or we are going to trade him for an expiring contract and maybe more. To make the Eddie Curry deal (which I like btw) it would take something extra… like draft picks.

I really liked Hudson and Matin’s games this SL. You guys see their #’s, but, what I saw was Tenacious defense with a capital TENACIOUS I wasn’t so keen on Martin last year, but, I don’t know? He must have been eating his wheaties in the off season. I sure like him Now.

Doc??? you like Josh Howard? Really? That really surprises me. We are going to get “maybe” 20 healthy games out of him next season. That’s if he doesn’t get hurt again.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:11 AM

Hey Neal… before I forget…. I forget who said the initial Chineese thing, but, the… “Maybe you should cut down on the rice in your diet” comment was HILARIOUS

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:14 AM

AND… he came back with… Sorry already had Chineese food for lunch… Wow I laughed at you Two.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:14 AM

Actually… With… not At

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:21 AM

Tom… before you give me the Lester speach.. I know… I already have him penciled in. It’s really Cartier I want to see get a chance. I think he could be really good for us.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:24 AM

speach? spelling is optional I trust?

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:25 AM

This might not be what some of my fellow bloggers want to hear, but if CP3 ends up going to Orlando and John Wall and Javale McGee have an outstanding year (I’m on my knees) then my prediction is:

Carmelo Anthony comes to the Washington Wizards.
This can only happen if both Wall and McGee blow up (I believe Wall will but I am just hopeful for Javale).

If CP3 goes to New York then case closed. Carmelo goes home to Madison Square Garden.

Will Ted Leonsis take the chance of bringing Carmelo here? Or will he stick to his game plan. The going rate today is to have 3 Stud players.

That would be really interesting if Carmelo initiated talks with Ted and Ernie. My guess is that Ted will not pass on a very, very good basketball player like Carmelo, especially if he initiates the contact.

What a great offseason for the NBA and for Wizards fans! We get to cheer on Javale and check out what everone is talking about this summer. We get to ponder on who EG is going to sign. We debate and get mad at each other. Lol!
This is definitely the best offseason in the history of the NBA.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:31 AM

DZ.. love ya man

You are a true Wizards fan. You dream higher than I do lol. And… that’s saying something You go Bud!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:38 AM

Carmelo is from B-More, but went to school for one year in Syracuse. I wonder what he considers home?

I’m with you draftazoid, I don’t think everything is going to be centered around rookies, more than one all-star is going to be needed, it’s going to have to be a group effort (young and veterans in the mix). It may or may not be Melo, but there’s going to be a veteran in the mix somewhere when it’s all said and done. No matter what Ted says/thinks.

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:53 AM

My main argument for signing Melos is:

“Mr. Leonsis, you said that you want to build through the draft, my question is how can we have a great Small Forward if we dd not draft one?
Carmelo Anthony has said he wants to play with a great point guard. We have one. What are you going to do?”

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:59 AM

Look at any championship team and you will not find a “home-grown” championship team. Someone has to come from another team. That’s the nature of the business. As good as OKC is going to be, rest assured that they’re final piece will come from a free agent or trade. Someone has to show/teach younger players. Usually it’s done on the court, moreso than off the court. OKC is a ron artest away from it all. that mentality has to come from a wiley veteran.

I’m not worried whether it’s melo or another star, but one of our key components is coming from something besides the draft. I don’t expect a first-year owner to have the answer. Some lessons are learned from books, and some are learned from OJT…..eom

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:59 AM

CAN YOU IMAGINE THE VERIZON CENTER IF WE HAD BOTH JOHN WALL AND CARMELO ANTHONY?

WE WILL BE ROCKIN!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 1:03 AM

BTW-The capitals aren’t a total example, because they choked…lol….i give them props but the fact of the matter is that they couldn’t handle the playoffs the way that they handled the regular season… a different mind-set is needed for each step of the journey.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 1:05 AM

Sorry draftazoid,

I’m not really caring who the player is, as long as we go get the “proper” fit.

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 24, 2010 at 1:05 AM

If I am an opposing Coach and I saw the quickness and awesome athleticism from the Wizards summer league I would be really concerned.
The one thing that Wall, Javale and, to a lesser extent, Booker and Hudson is that the Wizards are athletic and fast as ……….
If the Wizards figure out how to stay in the transition game this year they are going to give the NBA fits.
I just read where Brook Lopez is having a tough time at Team USA tryouts. They are blaming it on him just having Mono. I doubt that. I think it is because of what Steph Curry said, paraphase, “we want to run!.”
Brook Lopez doesn’t run. Javale Runs baby!

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 24, 2010 at 1:14 AM

The one thing I cannot wait to see is how good our back court is gong to be. I am really excited about our 3 man rotation. We got shooters in Gilbert and Hinrich. Hinrich is an All NBA Defensive player (alot of people discount that). Flip has pretty much called John Wall the best defensive point guard without even playing a game. If Gilbert can follow and not let emotions take over then we can have a real special back court.
This is going to be a real test for Flip on how he brings Gilbert to play the style we need.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 2:14 AM

Washington Wizards rescinded Cedric Jackson’s qualifying offer, but not Cartier Martin’s.

Qualifying offers can be rescinded without needing a player’s permission up until today. After today, the player must give their consent.
Sham Sports. This is another sign that the Wizards are considering keeping Martin. Basically, the qualifying offer allows the team to match any contract offered by another team to Martin. If no contract is offered, Martin can play out next season at his qualifying offer and become an unrestricted free agent in 2011

Question: who in the heck is Cedric Jackson?

Comment from datonypony
Time July 24, 2010 at 4:38 AM

Cedric Jackson is the chap who shot the game winning 3 last season against the pacers I believe!

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 24, 2010 at 7:46 AM

Jackson had a 10-day at the end of the season.

Keeping a qualifying offer in place for Martin pretty much means that we’re inviting him to training camp — good.

On the other hand, between him and Hudson — Lester outplayed him pretty decisively. Heck, we could keep them both and not sign any other wings; I’d be happy with that.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 24, 2010 at 7:50 AM

Like Lester Hudson? You’ll like these 2 interview w/ him:

http://www.celticstown.com/2009/09/14/ill-never-back-down-the-chronicles-of-lester-hudson/

http://www.celticstown.com/2009/09/24/i-just-want-to-play-my-heart-out-the-chronicles-of-lester-hudson/

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 9:19 AM

ok sports junkies, the NFL is reporting to training camp. This is when my fiscal new year begins. Time for me to face reality, no matter how many channels cable has, if it ain’t a sports channel, it aint a channel…lol…but since I have this lil situation, and the mrs is “assisting” me…lol…I have to watch lifetime for a few hours. There is another tv, but gotta take one for the team…lol… (heck, lifetime even has multiple channels…)

Okay, back to the main story, Football, then basketball, hockey, then baseball playoffs(a lil)….That’s my fiscal year for sports

Comment from neal
Time July 24, 2010 at 9:25 AM

C. Anthony can make $18.5M in Denver this year. You guys want to pay him enough to leave?

I agree, we’ll need a stud or two via FA eventually, but not until the rest of the team is ready to compete for a championship. Till then, I hope our coaches are good at developing young players.

I’m cool with keeping Hudson and Martin, but I don’t know what other young wing players are out there.

Lottery 2011, here we come!

Comment from maggicman11
Time July 24, 2010 at 11:12 AM

dcbutler- i dont think Melo considers DC home. he is from B-more, and i know its right up the beltway, but he doesnt appear to see it that way. other players from the area like Durant and beasley spend there offseason in DC playing in summer leagues and out at night clubs. never seen carmelo at barry farms.. i know that has no barring on if he would come to the wizards, just saying

Comment from JWALL
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:08 PM

I am in support of resigning Josh Howard at a cheaper contract for 2 years. Regardless of whether he comes back mid-season should not be a reason to not sign him. Many of you are against resigning him but that is ok by me.
I still see us as rebuilding. When you are rebuilding not every player is a rookie. You need some experienced players on your roster who want to be a part of the rebuild. Even if their stay is possible short term.
Trevor Booker could learn a lot from Josh Howard playing aginst him and with him as he adapts to the small forward position. Players like Gil, Kirk and maybe a Josh Howard bring a good range of experience to the team.
Even for you HA haters he will be of help to us if it is just spelling Javale who stands to play a good 30-35 minutes a game if he can stay out of foul trouble.
HA chose to play for the Wiz when they offered him a one year deal. there were 3 other teams that wanted his services as well.
Some of you are blogging like we are preparing to go to the playoffs next year. It may happen but unlikely it will. So we can possibly get a top 5 pick next year who can be our SF of the future we never know.
But in the meantime we have $10 million left in cap space.
If anybody other than EG is on the hot seat it is Flip because he has more athletic player s to utilize and I hopehe does a better job of coaching than he did last year.
Oh by the way i like Al Thornton as player on our team to. Like I said earlier in other posts John Wall will make players on this team better and more valuable.
Let’s work with what we got as we try to improve our team.

Comment from JWALL
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:28 PM

In hindsight I wish we would never let Alonzo Gee go. But EG blew that opportunity. The players that the Wiz have added to their roster need to be given the opportunity to jell together as a team before continuing to pass so many judgements of how someone was with another team.
Believe me if things don’t work out according to what the new ownership has requested form EG and Flip then they are out of here. They should know that.
Like I said in earlier post back in June don’t be surprised if the Lakers win it all again in spite of the changes in the NBA.
If I had one wish that would be to witness the young Wiz pull some upsets on some of the top teams that come into our phone booth this season.
With that i would like to see Miami win the NBA championship so it will cause many to realize that what LBJ did was follow his hearts desire. What is wrong with that? Being the top player on a team is not about who is the best.
Bill Russell needed Satch Sanders and Wayne Embry and Sam Jones needed John Havilicek and Bob Cousy needed a KC. Jones and Bailey Howell needed Don Nelson like Larry Bird needed Kevin McHale and Robert Parish and Magic needed Kareem who needed James Worthy and A.C Green who needed Michael Cooper and Byron Scott and Norm Nixon and Kurt Rambis.
Everybody has a role to play and that what we hope one day that our Wiz do win they win some titles.

Comment from JWALL
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:34 PM

You guy’s know that if doclinkin can support a resigning of Josh Howard at a cheaper contract that it means that Josh Howard when he get’s healthy can help this team whether it is this year or next.
Man I am glad I support giving somebody a new beginning, another chance.
Where would this world be if it were not for 2nd and 3rd chances…………………………………..

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:47 PM

Maggic,

Madison Square Garden was mentioned as Melo’s home….

Also, the key pieces should be established, then you get the complimentary players. You don’t fill a home with a bunch of items, then try to find room for true art. There will be young players to develop as long as there’s a NBA. If you can get key pieces now, go for it…..who said that it takes a certain amount of time to build a team? It can take one transaction, or it can take six years, it just depends on who’s running the show.

I could care less about another chance. A veteran player should be set for life. If they aren’t they need to take a financial mgmt course. Has anyone noticed all of the vets that don’t have rings, taking less pay to get a ring. It’s not because of the money, anyone that’s been in this league for three years or more and used their money wisely is more than likely set for life and maybe their kids children also (if done right). Second chances is definitely not the issue. Getting a championship is the issue.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 12:52 PM

In closing, I don’t have a problem (or maybe I do, but it’s my problem) with how we are building our “championship” team. Getting in a position to get the right players is based on what we do with Gil or how Gil returns. His salary is a huge portion of our expenses….HOWEVER, the lakers almost double our salary, and they are champions…so while we are only bloggers, there IS more than one way to build a championship, the wiz have chosen a route that they have chosen. Whether we like it or not….BEST OF LUCK AND BLOGGING FULL SPEED AHEAD

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 24, 2010 at 3:30 PM

We seem to only want one-year contracts for vets this Summer. Why?

Because a new Collective Bargaining Agreement is coming, and by all accounts it will lead to lower player salaries. Given how much salaries have jumped in the last few years, I’m fine with that. For that reason, teams that have kept their powder dry will look good in a year or so.

But even if we were in the market for a 2-3 year deal — why would we sign Howard this Summer? In fact, I doubt any team will sign him this Summer. Much more likely that teams will be interested in him after the first of the year when he is ready to come back. In fact, that may turn out to be better for him, who knows? Somebody may *need* him.

In the meantime, I’m not sure why he is even a subject of conversation for us. He put in 90 minutes as a Wizard; he is an unrestricted free agent — as relevant for any team in the NBA as he is for us.

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 24, 2010 at 3:31 PM

JWALL, you should not want us to get the #5 pick in next years draft. EG will just trade it away.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 24, 2010 at 3:40 PM

jwall — we don’t have $10m in salary cap space, even though that’s what Hoopsworld says we have. Right now our payroll is $48.46m for 10 players. But that doesn’t include Seraphin or N’Diaye. That adds $2m, leaving us with @$7.6m to work with and needing 1, or maybe 2 players.

We have a TPE that would enable us to trade for a player without giving anyone up. That’s a nice card to keep as we go into the season; you never know who will pop up. We had 2 of them, but one went in one or another transaction. If we sign a 1-year veteran minimum player (e.g. a wing), we keep open the possibility to be opportunistic in a trade. I doubt we’ll let go of that flexibility; it’s very valuable.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 24, 2010 at 3:42 PM

draftazoid — I don’t think Ernie will be trading any high draft picks any longer. That’s not the Ted Leonsis way.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 3:55 PM

Well, after so many years of blogging, we can be considered experts in the field….lol…whatever that means…lol…

In regards to EG, We have to keep in mind that he may be the GM, but he was ordered (for the lack of a better word) to assemble a “win champioship now” team, which entailed trading draft picks for veteran players. (SOMEONE MAY WANT TO BRONZE ME DEFENDING EG, It won’t happen but so much )

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 3:59 PM

BTW-Watching McGee on USA team. He’s being taught the basics and playing with players that are the best at every position will help him elevate his game. He is also being taught his role as a big man, and when/where to set screens. One thing I would like out of him is to stay SET when screening. He is so ready to run towards the basket, that he doesn’t stay set long enough….hopefully someone will enlighten him.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 5:15 PM

Roster charge for having only 11 things on the cap – $473,604

applied to chicago

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 5:20 PM

total picture of chicago until kurt thomas is officially signed

There follows a breakdown of Chicago’s 2010/11 salary situation. Note: figures do NOT include Kurt Thomas, who has not officially signed yet, and whose salaries does not actually exist yet.

(Incidentally, in the interests of fairness, we should all call Kurt Thomas “Kirk” from now on.)

Carlos Boozer – $14,400,000
Luol Deng – $11,345,000
Derrick Rose – $5,546,160
Kyle Korver – $5,000,000
Ronnie Brewer – $4,750,000
C.J. Watson – $3,600,000
Joakim Noah – $3,128,536
Omer Asik – $1,721,000
James Johnson – $1,713,600
Taj Gibson – $1,117,680

Martynas Andriuskevicius – $854,389
Roster charge for having only 11 things on the cap – $473,604

Total: $53,649,969
Cap room to $58,044,000 salary cap: $4,394,031

Entering this offseason, the Bulls had cap holds on Brad Miller ($18,375,000), Hakim Warrick ($3,600,000), Acie Law ($2,940,844), Joe Alexander ($2,763,600), Ronald Murray ($2.388.000), Jannero Pargo ($2.388.000), the #17 pick ($1,302,600), Devin Brown ($854,389) and Martynas Andriuskevicius ($854,389). The #17 pick was traded, as as deals were consummated and the need for cap room opened up, the cap holds on these players were renounced in turn. Andriuskevicius’s cap hold still exists for the simple reason that they have not renounced it yet, and doing so gains them nothing until they need it. It will be a formality soon, however.

(If you don’t know what a cap hold is, but would like to, click here.)

Once Kirk Thomas signs, the roster charge will be removed. Therefore, while his salary must be added to the cap number and subtracted from the cap space, the cap hold must be subtracted from the cap number and added to the cap space. If we therefore assume that Kirk signed for $1.5 million – which is in keeping with K.C. Johnson’s reported amount of being “just above the veteran’s minimum,” and works in accordance with the Bulls’s preference for very rounded numbers – then the amount of cap space decreases to $3,367,635 (58,044,000 – 53,649,969 + 473,604 – 1,500,000).

Renouncing Andriuskevicius, as and when it happens, means also adding another $473,604 roster charge. Yet because Andriuskevicius’s cap hold is larger than this roster charge, this move will open up a further $380,785 in cap room, bringing the Bulls total maximum post-Kirk cap room to $3,748,420.

(The amount of the roster charge can NOT be included into the salary of the 12th player, therefore this is the maximum amount of cap space remaining if the Thomas estimate is accurate.)

After the cap space is used up, the Bulls can continue to sign players to the minimum salary using the Minimum Salary Exception. That exception is non-exhaustive, and can be used for as long as a team has open roster spots. Therefore, it is feasible, sensible, and perhaps even likely, that all of that amount goes to one player.

Here’s hoping it’s not Tracy McGrady,

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 5:26 PM

A whole NEW TERM is Cap Hold……..i’m not even trying to understand it, but here’s what ours looks like…players I havent heard of in years…

Player Previous salary Type Cap hold
Anthony Peeler $1,750,000 120% $2,100,000
Chris Whitney Minimum salary Min $825,497

Why the wiz have 12 players already:
http://www.shamsports.com/content/pages/teams/wizards.jsp

our TOTAL SALARY PICT????:
http://www.shamsports.com/content/pages/data/salaries/wizards.jsp

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 6:05 PM

Heat free agent Yakhouba Diawara has signed in Italy with Enel Brindisi.

never even heard of this cat

Comment from datonypony
Time July 24, 2010 at 7:14 PM

He was a defensive specialist with the heat.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 7:25 PM

Okay, according to the timeline below. We can keep Gil until 31 Dec 2011. 2012 will be another year that Gil makes the news.

September 2003: Arrested for driving without a license and carrying a concealed weapon. Suspended for 1 game, fined.

28th May 2006: Arrested for disobeying police when wading in to help teammate Awvee Storey, who was being arrested for blocking traffic. Allegedly saying ?You can?t arrest me. I?m a basketball player. I play for the Washington Wizards, and I?m not going to leave my teammate,? which was fun. Charges later dropped against both.

24th December 2009: Admitted to bringing four guns to the Wizards’ arena, a violation of oh so many rules. A week later, it emerged that Arenas and team mate Javaris Crittenton had had a stand-off of sorts with two of the weapons in the locker room, a violation of about 146 more rules (NBA only has 145 rules…lol…)

Comment from tyrone2000
Time July 24, 2010 at 8:34 PM

The main issue with me about the rebuild through the draft is that losing is contagious. I am not sold on the three year plan. We have to stop the bleeding first. John Wall is a great start, but if he is conditioned to lose it will be a tremendous challenge for him to turn it around. That is why the Wizards need to fill their roster with 50% veterans.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 24, 2010 at 9:20 PM

Is that what happened in OKC, tyrone? Losing was contagious; they sucked for years (as Seattle and then OKC), so they couldn’t rebuild with youth and they never did get to be any good?

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 24, 2010 at 9:29 PM

dcbutler — the sham sports link includes our right to Martin, but it doesn’t include N’Diaye. So 12 but not 12 who are sure to be with us on opening day.

I’ll say it again: if we *don’t* sign N’Diaye, and we came out of the deepest draft in many years w/ no round 2 player (and you can see already that there are some that look quite good), then that’s on Ernie and is a significant mistake.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time July 24, 2010 at 9:51 PM

diawara made himself a name while being a “defensive” specialist with the nuggest actually – the heat was like his second team in the nba

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 9:56 PM

I think the way the roster thingy works is that if a player was with you in a previous year, and you don’t renounce their rights, then it’s looked at like they are still with you, even if they are not actually with you(haven’t actually signed a contract)…..who invented that?????

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 10:31 PM

LOL…McGee went on an 8-0 run by himself, blocked a shot by Odom and then Chauncey gave him some more knowledge after a timeout. If he isn’t the “breakout” player on this team, i would be surprised. Resign him NOW!!!

Comment from draftazoid
Time July 24, 2010 at 10:32 PM

Javale: You the Man!
In a two minute period Javale had an assist, 2 buckets and a blocked shot.
Go Javale!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 10:42 PM

Nice showing by McGee. didn’t like him standing at the free throw line watching while on d(on his last play before going out), but all in all he’s getting invaluable training.

Better resign him early or you might lose him

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 10:49 PM

Oh ok, we have him for two more seasons after the upcoming season. Good!!

Billups may have shot himself off the team.

Comment from wbott23
Time July 24, 2010 at 10:51 PM

Javale is the best center out of the three. He got 6 pts 2rb and a block and a steal in like 6 mins. Come on we have to be excited about this young player. Tyson and Brooks just can match Javales athleticism.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 11:10 PM

Cool McGee starting the second half. Word is that McGee won’t make the team, but due to shortage, can’t let him go just yet.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 11:31 PM

Love looks good, and may make the team before Javale, but he’s benefiting more from the guard penetrating, moreso than his own abilities.

Comment from neal
Time July 24, 2010 at 11:37 PM

Grifon, I think it was dcbutler that had that dream. He also needs to be careful about what he smokes before going to bed.

I agree with you tyrone2000. The danger of having all rookies is their getting used to losing. It will be a fine line between getting a lot of young players to see who pans out and staying aware of the danger you point out.

Some of you guys that watched the summer league tell me your impression of Booker. Not much has been said about him.

Comment from datonypony
Time July 24, 2010 at 11:45 PM

Booker does a lot of dirty work. He set some real nice picks, and sets some bone jarring picks. He has a mind of defense even though I didn’t get to see him match up with post players too well. He is athletic obviously, and has a workable jump shot.

He did not rebound as much as I expected, but from what I saw he boxed out well, and often drew fouls on opponents when rebounding due to his better position.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 24, 2010 at 11:56 PM

Booker played the 4 during summer league, I want to see him play the three against other NBA teams (during training camp and exhibitions) before I rate him.

Javale not getting that much burn tonight. Chandler looks to be the starting center. Lopez can be the banger, when needed. Javale did try an underhanded layup that got blocked (some things he just needs to take out of his arsenal) and he got beat on the baseline for a layup, but he’s playing against some of the best.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 25, 2010 at 12:18 AM

Okay, who/whom has heard of the cap holds. These keep teams from being fined for not having 12 people on the roster…lol…

On a serious note, these can also be used during trades (i.e. keith van horn a few years ago)

check out san antonio’s cap hold list(talk about blasts from the past):

Player Previous salary Type Cap hold

Keith Bogans Minimum salary Min $854,389
Robert Horry $3,630,000 200% $7,260,000
Roger Mason $3,780,000 130% $4,914,000
Glenn Robinson Minimum salary Min $854,389
Damon Stoudamire Minimum salary Min $854,389
Nick Van Exel Minimum salary Min $854,389
Jacque Vaughn Minimum salary Min $854,389

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 25, 2010 at 12:31 AM

Lakers Cap Holds:

Player Previous salary Type Cap hold
Shannon Brown $1,990,000 130% $2,587,000
Horace Grant Minimum salary Min $854,389
Ron Harper $2,200,000 130% $2,860,000
Didier Ilunga-Mbenga $959,111 200% $1,918,222
Jim Jackson Minimum salary Min $854,389
Karl Malone $1,500,000 120% $1,800,000
Adam Morrison $5,257,229 Max $13,603,750
Ira Newble Minimum salary Min $854,389
Josh Powell Minimum salary Min $854,389
Mitch Richmond Minimum salary Min $854,389
John Salley Minimum salary Min $854,389
Brian Shaw Minimum salary Min $854,389
Shammond Williams $1,750,000 120% $2,100,000

Indiana Cap Hold:

Player Previous salary Type Cap hold
Tyus Edney Minimum salary Min $854,389
Tim Hardaway Minimum salary Min $854,389
Luther Head Minimum salary Min $854,389
Lari Ketner Minimum salary Min $854,389
Terry Mills Minimum salary Min $854,389
Andre Owens Minimum salary Min $854,389
Brent Scott Minimum salary Min $762,195
Mate Skelin Minimum salary Min $762,195
Rik Smits $13,250,000 Max $18,928,700
Zan Tabak $1,210,000 130% $1,573,000
LaSalle Thompson Minimum salary Min $854,389
Earl Watson $2,800,00 120% $3,360,000

Our current cap hold:

Player Previous salary Type Cap hold
Cedric Jackson Minimum salary Min $854,389
Cartier Martin Minimum salary QO $1,029,389
Fabricio Oberto $1,990,000 120% $2,388,000
James Singleton $1,030,189 120% $1,236,227

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 2:16 AM

Tom… thank you for the Hudson interviews. I liked him in SL. I truely can’t get enough of the Quadruple Double thing I, as mentioned before.. and in the interviews. I love his defense. Defense seems to the way we are going. Hamady…. fits that role. I expect him to be on our team as well. Cartier also displayed a good feel for defense. He should be a good fit as well. I’m counting on nothing as Ernie and I have never seemed to see eye to eye

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 2:22 AM

Heinrich = defense too

About time we got a little tougher

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 2:27 AM

Cartier can score and defend… and from what you guys have said…. he is a “lock” for training camp. GREAT. I want to hear the same thing about Lester and Hamady. We truely have a very good core now. Let’s keep them.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 2:37 AM

I loved watching JaVale play on team blue tonight

He is going to be… heck he already Awesome.

Nice that Mr Wall and Mr McGee already have developed a raport

OK.. came “something” start already

I’m ready to see what happens next… ie the vet wng.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 2:41 AM

can not came… keyboards fight me

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 2:52 AM

Just a prediction from a fan that has endured Wes:

At some point next season…. JWall (maybe the blogger too lol)…Gilbert….Trevor… Andre… and JaVale are going to make some noise with a truely good supporting staff…. Hudson, Heinrich, Cartier, Seraphin (I hope), and N’daiye (C’mon Armstong… show me something )

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 25, 2010 at 7:51 AM

Aaahhh, nice to see the enthusiasm!

Comment from neal
Time July 25, 2010 at 8:34 AM

Cap holds? I give up on trying to understand this salary cap. I trust the new collective bargaining agreement will simplify it.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 25, 2010 at 10:21 AM

I would compare it to cooking the books…lol…and these things can be traded too…..imagine that. we trade gil to san antonio and they use robert horry’s 7 mil cap hold as part of the trade….and he’s been out of the league for what, 5 years…lol…all he has to do is sign it, and he can get free $$…….

As long as a player doesn’t “OFFICIALLY” retire, sign with another team, get waived, etc they are part of the cap hold……loop holes are now clogged

New trade ammo???

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 25, 2010 at 4:47 PM

It’s 100 degrees here — but I hear it’s raining in DC. Supposed to rain hard here tonight; can’t wait for something to break the heat. That’s a small “h” there — not the Heat.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 25, 2010 at 4:55 PM

The National Weather Service has continued the Heat Advisory for D.C.; it remains in effect until 8PM tonight. The high temperature today is forecast to be 99 with a heat index of 107. Severe weather is a good possibility this afternoon & evening as a cold front passes through & interacts with the hot & humid air – please be attentive for possible warnings. The Reeves Center (2000 14th St. NW) will be open again as a cooling center from 12 – 6 PM. Temperatures tomorrow and Tuesday are forecast to return to summertime normals

National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, effective from now until 8PM. A line of storms, currently located in West Virginia, will be moving over the D.C. area between appx 4PM and 5:30PM. These storms have the potential to be severe.

Tornado Warning for SE Montgomery County, MD. including Chevy Chase, MD (on DC border)

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 25, 2010 at 5:59 PM

It rained hard here briefly just a little while ago, and got dark. still dark but the rain has mostly stopped. The temperature dropped, and I’m hoping it’ll stay down for a while.

On another note, Rasual Butler re-signing w/ the Clippers, so there’s another wing player who won’t be a Wizard. I’m hoping they *all* sign — so we can be “stuck with” Lester Hudson!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 25, 2010 at 6:26 PM

I think we mis-understood EG, or we aren’t on his level. When he said “we are looking for a small forward”, in EG’s language, that meant______________(you fill in the blanks)

Comment from neal
Time July 25, 2010 at 8:14 PM

Actually, I think he said “we are pursuing several players”. To me that means he’s made offers. Probably low-balling until someone bites.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 25, 2010 at 8:32 PM

I don’t remember that statement, neal. I remember an interview after Wall’s first practice with the Wizards in which Ernie said “we need another big” and “a wing player” — and then went out and signed HA.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 25, 2010 at 8:36 PM

neal — I also don’t think it’s a matter of low-balling offers. Most guys want to sign a contract for more than one year (especially w/ a new CBA coming up), and that’s not what we’re offering it seems.

As long as an agent thinks his guy might get a multi-year deal, he isn’t going to be in a hurry to deal with the Wizards. As the Summer drags on, we’ll see who can and can’t get such an offer. Our guy will come from among those who can’t.

On the other hand, Rasual Butler *is* signing for one year — but he is re-signing with his current team. That’s a lot easier to swallow. No moving your family, etc.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 25, 2010 at 8:47 PM

unless we make some trades, we only have a few spots open on our roster, which doesn’t have the 56th or whatever pick yet…..

Current Roster

Gilbert Arenas
Hilton Armstrong
Andray Blatche
Trevor Booker
Kirk Hinrich
Yi Jianlian
Cartier Martin
JaVale McGee
Kevin Seraphin
Al Thornton
John Wall
Nick Young

ok, i doubt if we carry 15 players (need to leave a spot open for teams that are over the limit). we can take a player and maybe some draft picks for letting them unload? So we have 2 spots open (Hudson and 2nd rd????)

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 25, 2010 at 9:42 PM

Now I’m really puzzled as to why we signed HA so quickly. Looking at all of the angles, there really wasn’t a reason to sign him just yet…..we had 11 players, plus training camp and we had players on the cap hold list to reach our Non-Season roster quota.

Hindsight Is 20/20, but EG blew a call (again). If we keep our 2nd round pick, he’ll probably be in d-league or at the end of the bench. We could have kept Hudson and Martin, and had a few slots open to grab some baggage from a couple of teams and snatch some draft picks with it. We shall see how EG works it……

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 9:47 PM

That’s my personal preferance DCB. Hudson and N’daiye

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 9:50 PM

I question signing Hilton Armstrong now, later, or at all

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 9:51 PM

lost all power to the earlier storms. We will see how long my laptop battery lasts lol

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 25, 2010 at 9:55 PM

lol…..hey grif.

a couple more posts and you’re done…lol….i got

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 9:57 PM

Probably DCB probably

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 25, 2010 at 9:57 PM

continued from previous post

…i gotta get me another hobby, I have another week off from work and I’m not going to be on this blog all week…LOL….Plus it’s going to be pretty quiet on here for a minute

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 25, 2010 at 9:58 PM

I’m starting to get upset at myself as it is….there is no way in the world that i should know what a cap hold is and how to use it….LOL….I’m getting pretty lame.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 9:59 PM

OR…. I’m going to look really silly running the car in the driveway to recharge it

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 10:00 PM

I’m telling you that Tom Mandel is a bad influence on us all LOL

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 25, 2010 at 10:03 PM

ok, it’s ten oclock, even if I don’t have anything else to do, I’m going to fake it….lol….have a good night

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time July 25, 2010 at 10:05 PM

nite Bud… see ya soon

Comment from neal
Time July 25, 2010 at 10:10 PM

Grunfeld said that in his interview.

Cartier Martin isn’t under contract and N’Diaye will get a non-guaranteed one at best, so we have only 11 reasonably sure names on the roster. EG isn’t through. He has more patience than I.

You’re right, Tom, but I had one-year contracts in mind when I wrote “low-balling”.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 26, 2010 at 7:33 AM

I see what you mean, neal. And you’re right — that is a kind of “low-balling.”

As I’ve said now almost a dozen times, if we don’t keep N’Diaye, and therefore have come out of this *deep draft* with no round 2 keeper, then that’s a definite ding on Ernie’s imagination and deal-making.

Hey dcb — have you looked at what you’re boy Stephenson did in SL? He shot about 70% !!

And, without anybody noticing it, Parakhouski had a solid SL in Orlando as well. Had 21 rebounds in 75 minutes, didn’t turn it over, shot .529. Not on anyone’s camp roster that I know of — why?

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 26, 2010 at 7:49 AM

Hoopsworld article on the FAs that are left.

http://www.hoopsworld.com/Story.asp?story_id=16900

The writer points to the guy I’ve said over and over again was the big we should have signed. Aaarrrgh:

“Josh Boone – One of the more intriguing bargains on the free agent market is Boone. The former UConn big man quietly ranked 27th in the NBA in rebounding rate last year. Even Shaquille O’Neal, Kendrick Perkins, Troy Murphy, Tyson Chandler, Chris Anderson and Al Horford didn’t rebound such a large portion of missed shots. Boone only played 16.6 mpg with the Nets in ‘09-’10, but he is conditioned enough to see that number grow this year. Some team will be pleasantly surprised when it adds Boone.”

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 26, 2010 at 8:05 AM

Boone is a MUCH better player than Armstrong. He’s got enough years in front of him that I’d have signed him to a multi-year contract for not much money and not worry about backup Center again for many seasons!

I might be interested in J.R. Giddens at the wing. Still young. I liked him out of college.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 26, 2010 at 8:06 AM

The only consolation right now is that it’s still early. the other side of the story is that as tom stated, if we get rid of our 2nd round pick, it’s sad. But if we don’t get rid of him, we will probably have to get rid of Martin or Hudson, or both. Dleague still counts toward your overall roster (i.e. i believe on the same level as i.r.)

The nets can match offers for Boone, correct?

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 26, 2010 at 8:22 AM

dcb — I can’t quite figure out whether Boone is restricted or not. The hoopsworld doesn’t mention that — and does in the case of at least one other guy. NJ might not have tendered him his qualifying offer.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 26, 2010 at 8:25 AM

fyi

By not being waived yesterday, Joey Dorsey just earned $213,597. He’ll earn double that if not waived on or before November 1st.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 26, 2010 at 8:57 AM

Tom,

Josh Boone was listed as RFA on nba.com’s listing.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 26, 2010 at 9:03 AM

okay, we have about two/three new posts in one day….lol….from feast to famine.

see ya’ll on the heinrich interview at noon

Comment from neal
Time July 26, 2010 at 9:07 AM

Someone explain to me what we did for Cartier Martin that we didn’t do for Cedric Jackson. I don’t think we can make Martin a restricted FA.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 26, 2010 at 10:25 AM

we gave Martin a QO, qualifying offer. Jackson was on our roster at the end of last year, i think

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 26, 2010 at 10:43 AM

Joey Dorsey — he is a good player. A tremendous rebounder especially. If he does wind up being waived, he’d be a very good pick up for us.

Josh Boone — he is listed on the nj roster at hoopshype as having a qualifying offer of @ $3m. I guess they’d be able to match, and obviously the qual. offer is the minimum.

neal — I think that, yes, Cartier Martin is a restricted FA. I.e. I think that’s what the qual. offer means.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time July 26, 2010 at 11:12 AM

Josh Boone’s Wikipedia page — http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Josh_Boone — says he’s unrestricted. I’m guessing this page is maintained by his agent’s staff, so…

Also, although the hoopshype nj salaries page lists him on the roster, in fact the salary total does *not* include his qualifying offer.

The Nets site lists 14 players with uni numbers and also lists Boone, Trent Hassell, Jarvis Hayes and Chris Quinn w/o uni numbers and marked as Free Agents.

I think Boone is unrestricted.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time July 26, 2010 at 11:20 AM

hilarious comments in this article:

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/424061-the-coaches-get-a-report-card-grading-all-30-nba-sideline-chiefs#page/1

Doc Rivers called the Clippers’ new head coach “kerosene” when both balled in San Antonio because the reserve often entered the game to slow the opposing role player, who was torching Del Negro. It makes sense then, that Del Negro struggled to get consistent defensive efforts from his Bulls’ squads.

FLIP SAUNDERS (Washington Wizards)- He will probably stay home the next time a traveling gun show heads to D.C. His work in Detroit suggests he belongs on the B list. The nerve-wracking embarrassment of a freak show he chaperoned in our nation’s capitol last year says otherwise.

John Wall, a top-flight athlete and potential franchise changer, gives the Wizards and Saunders a much-needed chance at redemption.