Only 51 days till the draft...
by Jordan Sams on May 4, 2009 5:11 PM PDT
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PrintMan, I forgot how slow the off-season is (sad face). We're still a ways away from free agency, trades, the summer league, and the draft, but it's never too early for a couple mocks.
The draft is my favorite event of the off-season, and as we all know, the Sixers are searching for a future point guard. Let's see who the "experts" have us taking.
Binary Basketball -- PG Ty Lawson
Draft Empire -- SG Wayne Ellington
RealGM -- PG Jonny Flynn
Draft Depot -- SG Terrence Williams
NBA Draft Prospects 2009 -- PG Nick Calathes
Ridiculous Upside -- PG Jeff Teague
NBADraft.net -- PG Tyreke Evans
Draft Express -- PG Jeff Teague
Favorite: Ty Lawson
Least Favorite: Tyreke Evans
Don't forget to check out Tanner's breakdown of the point guard prospects -- he's the real draft "expert" here at Liberty Ballers. Direct all your draft questions his way.
Now tell me who you would like to see drafted.
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PG
Just about any of the PGs except Calathes. I didn’t get to see him as much but he didn’t look good against PSU and UF underachieved during the season. Flynn is really fun to watch.
Kath?
I've heard comparisons to Nash.
Who doesn’t like the sound of a 6’5’’ point guard with a high b-ball IQ and a smooth jumper? Here’s his scouting report via nbadraft.net from 2006.
Strengths: Calathes is a true point guard who continuously makes his teammates better. He runs a team like an NBA veteran. He is an exceptional passer, always putting the ball in the right place for easy baskets, and often sending passes to where his teammates should be on the floor, in a sense coaching them with each pass. He has a great shooting stroke and can hit consistently from three. He is very shifty and can get into the paint when he needs to. He plays a very composed game, and visibly pushes himself more when he makes mistakes. He was named Mr. Basketball of Florida as a junior in high school.
Really want to do I know?
That was just my gut reaction to Calathes. Given that report is from 06, it’s tough for me to put much stock in it as it relates to right now, but maybe he’ll be awesome in the NBA and Billy Donovan is just messing up at UF.
Kath?
If you're asking who compared him to Nash.
It was David Thorpe, who also compared Marreese Speights to Amare (after I did of course).
at the time i wrote that
the boards had teague in the top 10 so i figured we had no shot at him…. now that he’s slipped back i write somethin up about him in the next couple days
I'm not a huge fan.
Maybe you can change my mind. I have my heart set on a true point guard, who shoots threes and free throws well.
If Flynn or Lawson aren’t available I want either Jrue Holiday or Tyreke Evans. If Flynn or Lawson are there and we re-sign Miller I would probably want Holiday over them.
Holliday, yes.
Evans, no. He might be a good player, but is he a true point guard?
Holliday I’m a fan of though. Is taking him at 17 a reach?
Holiday
did nothing to show he is capable of playing the point this season in what was expected to be one of the best freshman’s year. nor he is he tall enough to play the 2. He laid an egg then made a terrible decision to go pro when he could’ve proved something at the point at UCLA now that Collison is gone. I don’t want him, let him be a bust on somebody else’s team.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 8:14 PM PDT up reply actions
Teague to the rescue!
I think Teague would be a solid pick. I think like thadd within a few years he will be a solid player.
Choices
1. Jonny Flynn
2. Eric Maynor
3. Ty Lawson
That’s if we don’t sign Miller. If we do for a couple years, or if we trade for a PG, here are the top choices:
1. Wayne Ellington
2. Tyreke Evans
3. Jonny Flynn
I love T-Will but I don’t think he gives us anything that Iguodala doesn’t, and at 6’6, his upside on this team is a really good reserve. Ellington is legit, and he’d fit in nicely to the SG spot at 6’5 with a beautiful jump shot. Flynn has everything you want in a point guard and he’s tough enough to handle bigger guards in the post.
In terms of Tyreke Evans, kid can flat out score. And if we’re looking for a scoring 2, here he is. Aside from Blake Griffin, Evans and Flynn are the two with the best chance at being “stars.” I don’t put as much stock into that as some people, but we need a scoring guard that can break his man down in the half court. Plus he can play a little point, even though his strength is definitely at the 2.
If we’re looking at a center, it’s a pretty weak draft for them after Thabeet and Hill. And I really really don’t like BJ Mullens. But guys in the second round with some value (if we acquire a 2nd rounder), are Josh Heytvelt (6’11 238 from Gonzaga) and Garret Siler (6’11 305 from D-II Augusta State). Heytvelt is probably best suited to play the 4, but Siler is a true center, and a load at that. He really impressed at the Portsmouth Invitational as one of the few non D-I guys there. He could turn out to be a gem as his offensive game is really developing and he’s a monster on the board. Heytvelt has all the talent in the world but never really put it together statistically or on the court.
I’m beyond excited.
Does Evans have a jumpshot?
I’m looking for shooting, shooting and more shooting.
In a weak class it seems like there are plenty of solid point guards.
yes
He’s streaky but he’s got range. He’s not Ellington, but his game is more well-rounded than Wayne’s because of his ball-handling ability. He can take over the game on both offense and defense, whereas ellington will primarily be a shooter in this league. Hence why I want Ellington over Evans because our needs suit Ellington’s skill set. Evans is a flashy game changer than can finish at the rim, and would be an asset on the fast break, but Ellington would be a bigger asset in the half court stretching the defense, along with his ability to run the break which he did well with Lawson and Green at UNC. Interestingly enough, both guys are Philly kids.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 8:04 PM PDT up reply actions
27% from the COLLEGE three
that’s not streaky that’s just bad
by Tanner Steidel on May 4, 2009 8:06 PM PDT up reply actions
playing the point
which is not his natural position, changed his approach to the game, especially from the outside. He had games with 3 or more trey’s three times during the season. Watching him, he can hit from anywhere, its just his shot selection that is questionable. He can get hot.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 8:09 PM PDT up reply actions
he actually shot better when he played point
he started off the year playing the 2 and shot 6 for 33 from beyond the arch during that stretch… he would just be another player who can get the basket and score but cannot be counted on to bury threes or any type of outside shot
by Tanner Steidel on May 4, 2009 8:16 PM PDT up reply actions
small sample size
we’ve heard that plenty of times. I’m not saying he’s a good shooter, and I’m not saying I want to draft him. He CAN shoot, in high school he shot 48% from beyond. So the talent is there, which is why I said he is streaky.
But like I said before, I’d much rather have Ellington on this team.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 8:22 PM PDT up reply actions
Shooting guard
is what we need in my opinion. I think we can make do with a point guard but WE MUST HAVE some one who can shoot and put Bill Green on the bench replacing Rush this coming year.
And the shooting guard must be able to shoot the 3 very well. I cannot stand watching another year of sub par 3 pt shooting.
Personally
I’d rather them take one of my point guards I mentioned above in the first round and found a way to trade for a 2nd rounder and took either Dionte Christmas (Temple), Marcus Thornton (LSU), Jermaine Taylor (UCF), or personal favorite Jerel McNeal (Marquette). In terms of pure shooting ability its gotta be Christmas or Taylor, but if I had to pick the best player out of this group in 5 years, I’d go with McNeal. Call it a man crush, but I see him play and watch him want it more than everybody else.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 8:08 PM PDT up reply actions
i love mcneal’s drive to make to sure he wins and his desire to be the best that he can possibly be… great heart in that man right there
by Tanner Steidel on May 4, 2009 8:18 PM PDT up reply actions
So we got two personal sleepers?
McNeal from MikeBourn and Christmas from The Legend. Oh and can’t forget Ben Woodside who is John’s pet cat.
I wish I knew more about the prospects to have sleeper to pimp. Don’t worry, I’ll be doing a lot research after the playoffs.
let me get in on the sleeper pick
i’m takin alex ruoff out of west virginia as a nice sleeper… think of a lesser brent barry i think he could be a solid contributor in the nba
by Tanner Steidel on May 4, 2009 9:39 PM PDT up reply actions
And Tanner's on the board.
None of these guys will be attainable unless the Sixers buy their way into the second. They better.
i could see that
but i think his toughness is in question. as a senior, he wet the bed his last few games, especially against dayton in the tourney, costing me an elite 8 team in the process. plus i hate wvu and bob huggins. Christmas is no sleeper for people around philadelphia, and Ben Woodside is destined for Europe.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 9:49 PM PDT up reply actions
o they is plenty hatred coming from this guy
towards wvu (i also had them in elite eight)… the thing with ruoff is that he may not even be drafted… cheap undrafted free agent anyone? this all being the sake of picking a sleeper though the guy has a knack of not showing up (0 points, yes 0, against louisville on senior day)
by Tanner Steidel on May 4, 2009 9:52 PM PDT up reply actions
love it
and yes, I’d love Ruoff as an undrafted free agent. Along with guys like Ryan Toolson (SG – Utah Valley), Ahmad Nivins (PF – St. Joe’s), Wink Adams (you’d know something about him Jordan), and Aaron Jackson (PG – Duquesne), I love giving undrafted guys a shot, seeing what they produced in college and hoping they fight for a roster spot instead of wasting one on a guy like Kareem Rush.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 10:04 PM PDT up reply actions
I know all about Wink Adams.
I had a class with him. I’d love for him to get a shot — just not with the Sixers. He’s not a good fit for us.
I love Wink
And I am totally jealous you had a class with him. I always played with UNLV in College Hoops 2k7. Joey Darger, Joel Anthony, Curtis Terry, Wink, Kevin Kruger, Wendell White, Michael Umeh, Gaston Essengue……I loved that team. I’m still waiting for Beas Hamga to make a difference for you guys. He’s a 5-star prospect if he can be a student. Is he gone or is he still around?
And I love the addition of Derrick Jasper for you, I think he and Bellfield will carry you this season, unless of course Hamga gets his crap together.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 10:13 PM PDT up reply actions
I'm pretty sure Hamga is gone.
Not familiar with Jasper. I’m a huge fan of Bellfield though.
And yeah, that team with Kruger and White was sick — very fun to watch.
Curtis Terry was our Bill Green. Everybody hates him down here.
actually
I got that impression about Terry, I felt the same way when playing with him in college hoops. haha but the guy I hated the most was Corey Bailey. Purely a video game hatred.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 10:22 PM PDT up reply actions
and jasper
is a transfer from Kentucky. 6’6 point guard, you’ll like the way he plays, although he is beyond putrid from the line (46% for his career)
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 10:26 PM PDT up reply actions
if that guy could develop into a half decent free throw shooter look out folks
by Tanner Steidel on May 4, 2009 10:35 PM PDT up reply actions
60% would suffice
But he’s leaving points on the court. He really is a machine down low though, even after he was playing on one leg, he still had some vintage Arinze throw-downs.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 10:36 PM PDT up reply actions
being at maryland
college basketball is a way of life… but ever since my junior year of hs i’ve been an avid follower of college almost as much as the nba
by Tanner Steidel on May 4, 2009 10:14 PM PDT up reply actions
everybody still bitter about gus gilchrist there?
especially how he ended the season at USF. A good friend of mine goes to UMD so I keep up more closely with them. I hated Greivis but I love Bowie and Milbourne and I’m pretty high on Tucker and Gregory. My friend loves Jin-Soo Kim, I obviously haven’t seen him play too much.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 10:17 PM PDT up reply actions
haha jin soo kim is the crowd favorite
he’s not good though… i love greivis as a college player i see him doing nothing in the nba (europe bound)… i always see cliff tucker and dino gregory at the bars i give em a what’s up everytime… and i will shoot gus gilchrist if i ever see him in public
by Tanner Steidel on May 4, 2009 10:20 PM PDT up reply actions
that's awesome
I wish I went to D-1 school, but “academics” got in the way (not taking a shot at maryland, just to be clear, it’s just not for my major). I’d be all over the basketball team, like a groupie. For Jin-Soo, if he’s 6’8 and he can shoot, there’s a place for him in college basketball. Presuming gary can teach him, he could be solid as an upperclassman.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 10:24 PM PDT up reply actions
you would be just like me
i got to the umd/duke game a full 16 hours early and took shifts with my boys to ensure front row seats (which we got for every game) and i was the first one on the court when we stormed against unc (it was my old facebook pic)
by Tanner Steidel on May 4, 2009 10:30 PM PDT up reply actions
Unfair
d3 schools suck. although it at least allows me to be impartial, because I watch the games and fall in love with (or despise the) players or coaches and enjoy the sport rather than obsess over the outcome. It’s healthier that way, although not as rewarding (not that watching the sixers lose painfully is rewarding)
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 10:35 PM PDT up reply actions
I've never been able to get into college sports.
It’s weird. I think I just follow the NBA, MLB, NFL and the reality show Big Brother so closely that I don’t have room for college. The most I’ve ever followed college basketball was 2007 when I thought the Sixers were gonna draft Oden or Durant.
you should start
college basketball is a good time. lose big brother, reality shows are the worst thing to happen to man in years.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 10:43 PM PDT up reply actions
i only follow ncaa hoops
i could never get into football (games take too long, way too many players)… but the nba and college hoops rule my life with nfl and the red sox (not mlb) on the side… and LOST
by Tanner Steidel on May 4, 2009 10:45 PM PDT up reply actions
AS long as he can shoot baskets
and 3 pt shots. Ideally it would be a point guard that can shoot 3’s!
Check this out.
In the past five drafts, here are some of the point guards taken after pick 17:
Delonte West
Jameer Nelson
Monta Ellis
Nate Robinson
Jarrett Jack
Rajon Rondo
Jordan Farmar
Aaron Brooks
Ramon Sessions
Mario Chalmbers
Point is, there’s gonna be talent available.
wow,
that is a great list. Alot of hope for us next year if we can snag one of those type talents!
A good point is atleast we don’t need a forward!
Oh come on jordan – that’s just beneath you to go with such fallacious logic. The past does not predict the future in the draft. And this is seen by many as one of the weakest drafts in a long time.
Chad Ford and One other espn wonk call calathes the best passer in the draft.
UF wasn’t talented this year (or last) compared to previous years and he broke the team assist record both years.
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 6:56 AM PDT up reply actions
I still think we'll look back and find at least one or two point guards after our pick.
That turned out to be good. It almost always works out like that.
There are missed picks in every draft, yes, that’s mostly because scouting and drafting in the NBA is a pretty broken hit or miss science (except for a few teams that seem to be quite good no matter where they draft, ala the spurs) but that doesn’t mean it will continue to happen and I don’t think it’s something you can count on. The weaker the draft the weaker the later picks, unless rob babcock is picking for every team before the sixers
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 8:08 AM PDT up reply actions
You still have a better chance nabbing an impact G than F/C late
http://www.phillyarena.com - Philly sports forum/blog
Weak draft, yes.
However; there are a lot of solid point guards. And I bet we could look back at every draft in the past 20 years, there are at least one or two steals after pick 17. It’s just up to the Sixers to take ’em.
Too bad...
Houston got rid of Rafer Alston because I would want Stefanski to try and get Aaron Brooks because I think he would be perfect for our offense. That could be with a little bias there since he played for my Ducks.
Evans a shooter? I think not!
ty Evans is a scorer , a big guard, but def not a good shooter. drafting him as a freshman would mean the sixers taking another louwill. he would work in out getting out and running but thats about it . he’s not a good shooter
Espn states 11 point guards for 1st round
“Currently, we have a whopping 11 point guards ranked as first-round prospects, with five of them — Rubio, Stephen Curry, Brandon Jennings, Eric Maynor and Holiday — ranked in the lottery. But given how different all of the point guard prospects are, every executive I talk to has them ranked differently based on their own philosophies about what makes a great point guard.
So while Rubio, Curry and Jennings look like locks for the lottery, other players like Teague, Ty Lawson and Jonny Flynn could all work their way up. Head-to-head workouts between the point guards will be huge in determining the final order.
You know one of them is going to fall.
Eliminate Curry, Jennings, Rubio and Maynor and who would you want the most? I think I’d go with Lawson.
i'd take lawson over anyone
except rubio and jennings
by Tanner Steidel on May 4, 2009 9:55 PM PDT up reply actions
I'm getting chills just thinking about draft night.
I really hope the Sixers remain in the Vegas Summer League so I can get the first look at our new rookie :)
same
I love me some NBA draft. I called both Young and Speights the past two drafts, but I don’t think this one is nearly as clear cut. It all depends on who’s off the board and what we do with our free agents. I’d kill to see some summer league ball.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 9:51 PM PDT up reply actions
If you can get out here and get a cheap hotel room.
I think I paid 150 bucks to see all 10 days last year. It’s a pretty good deal. One ticket gets you access to 6 games, so in 10 days you can see anywhere from 40-60 games for 150 bucks.
Plus, anyone who comes, I’ll be glad to meet up with.
And
I forgot to mention that if Chase Budinger is available, I’d put him on the same level as Ellington if not higher. I just don’t think he’ll reach us. But if he’s around, scoop him up quick because as a number 2 option, he’s deadly.
But this is why I disagree with the thought that we need a 2-guard with our first round pick. Where do they play? Once Brand gets back, he’s the 4, Thad and Dre are the wings. Unless they bounce Sammy and play Brand at the 5, which would open up a SG spot, our first round pick would never have an opening in the starting lineup as long as Young and Iguodala are here. The other option is to do what DepressedFan suggested and move Iguodala to the point, and draft either Ellington or Budinger or Evans as the 2-guard. And maybe get AJ Price, JEREL MCNEAL, Tyrese Rice, or Tony Douglas in round two to groom as a future point guard or at least backup. I would love that, it just doesn’t seem something the FO would have the balls to do. But Eddy the Shot Stefanski knows all and will make it happen.
Love the idea of Iggy at the point.
However; it would never happen. I think the only shooting guards the Sixers should even consider at 17 are Ellington and Budinger. I like Evans, just not for this team.
I don't think I want Budinger
Especially if there is still a good PG on the board. He just has never impressed me that much. That could be because he was hyped like crazy coming into College and didn’t live up to that. I would take his teammate Jordan Hill though if we were to get rid of Sammy and he somehow fell.
no chance hill falls out of the top 5
he is a monster though. Chase has all the tools and disappointed for most of his collegiate career until the second half of last season. he really put it together and was very effective down the stretch. I really like the way he plays, plus it would be nice to have two Chase’s in philly. the first one I’d say isn’t working out too badly.
by Michael Levin on May 5, 2009 8:13 AM PDT up reply actions
Buddinger has reported ‘motivational issues’ – people don’t believe he likes playing basketball as much as he sees it as something he’s good at so he does it.
I question he’s dalliance with the draft EVERY YEAR – all staying in school has done has hurt his draft stock
That’s worrisome to me – plus I question his defensive athleticism
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 8:36 AM PDT up reply actions
People said that about Rudy Gay
and he’s turned out to be quite a player, albeit in only a few seasons. He’s a twat, but he can play. And Budinger hasn’t had nearly as much pub as Gay had about his mental makeup, so I’m not too worried about that. But once again, this only would work if ‘Dre plays the point or Chase stays on the bench. I still don’t envision him falling to us anyway.
by Michael Levin on May 5, 2009 9:49 AM PDT up reply actions
Budinger had a lot of pub his freshman year, his sophmore year, but every year he chose not to enter the draft, people became less interested, not to mention that Arizona is no longer really a relevant national program, so they just don’t get the coverage.
Gay also has more natural athleticism than Buddinger I’d bet.
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 10:00 AM PDT up reply actions
Well at least you have a rational reason
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 3:22 PM PDT up reply actions
3 more steals from him...
And I beat Joe and win the realGM league.
http://www.phillyarena.com - Philly sports forum/blog
but where would they play?
stay on the bench until thad or iggy gets traded? Point guard is a more pressing need, especially if they can shoot. Get a 2nd rounder, take Dionte, McNeal, Marcus Thornton or Jermaine Taylor to be our 2-guard off the bench that can shoot.
I agree with that.
It all depends who’s there. I just feel that Ellington is too good of a shooter to pass up. A lot also depends on whether Miller returns or not.
hope miller's gone
at this point, I’d much rather see us draft a point and move on as a young team with Brand bringing the bulk of the scoring upfront as well as veteran leadership. drafting a point guard allows us to stay young while at the same time improving by riding next year on the backs of Thad’s improvement, Brand’s health, and Iggy’s consistency. (see Mario Chalmers at Miami with D-Wade carrying them and Mario just asked to give him the rock)
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 10:29 PM PDT up reply actions
I agree.
Which is why we should have traded Miller at the break. Best case scenario is a sign-and-trade.
cross your fingers
I’d have a baby if we traded him to portland for Bayless and trash contracts. That would be a great option, then we could either trade bayless to move up in the first round and get a pick in the 2nd, or keep him and draft Ellington.
by Michael Levin on May 4, 2009 10:32 PM PDT up reply actions
I believe the trade at the deadline was.
Miller and Reggie Evans for Steve Blake, Raef Lafrentz and Sergio Rodriguez. Not the best of trades, but we probably should’ve done it.
replacing Outlaw for Blake was rumored
But who knows what was really out their.
Any trade that would have moved Evans big salary would have helped the team.
http://www.phillyarena.com - Philly sports forum/blog
lot of family ties to Cuse
I’d be thrilled with Jonny, but I think devo is crazy for declaring, despite rumors that Boeheim wanted him gone anyway. Honestly though, if Arinze learns to shoot 60 from the line, he’ll be an NBA player. his ppg would go up 4 a game. Next year if he’s healthy, he’s a 15, 12, and 2 blocks guy. shooting 65% from the field. beast.
by Michael Levin on May 5, 2009 8:23 AM PDT up reply actions
What skills do they need from a PG on this team
Every PG in the draft has relative strengths and weaknesses.
Prioritize these PG skills:
-shooting for 3
-overall scoring ability
-star potential
-defense against quick pg’s
-size/strength (defense against bigger guards
-ability to finish inside
-ability to run the break
-pure 1/2 court pg skills
http://www.phillyarena.com - Philly sports forum/blog
For the Sixers needs, assuming Miller gone and no trades...
My ranks:
1 shooting for 3
8 overall scoring ability
4 star potential
2 defense against quick pg’s
7 size/strength (defense against bigger guards
6 ability to finish inside
3 ability to run the break
5 pure 1/2 court pg skills
http://www.phillyarena.com - Philly sports forum/blog
1 – pure 1/2 court pg skills
2 – shooting for 3
3 – ability to run the break
4 – overall scoring ability
5 – defense against quick pg’s
6 – star potential
7 – ability to finish inside
8 – size/strength (defense against bigger guards
I love all 3 of Flynn, Maynor, and Lawson. In terms of prioritizing these, Maynor possesses the least star potential, but he’s probably the smartest of the three, and would do well orchestrating the offense in the half court. I still rank them Flynn, Maynor, Lawson, but there is a strong possibility none of them fall to us. I see Lawson make too many mental mistakes that he makes up for with his speed but won’t be able to in the pros. Flynn is the total package for me, despite being undersized. And I just like the way Maynor plays, his height could be an asset if he develops a low post game like Andre Miller.
by Michael Levin on May 5, 2009 8:20 AM PDT up reply actions
I would not rank overall scoring so high
They should have good scorers with Thad, Iguodala and Brand all at or above 18 pts/game. Speights and Lou will also be able to score in bunches.
They need a shooter who can help spread the floor to keep defense honest. but a true scorer will be less important moving forward.
Then again, you can never have too much scoring, unless players are selfish.
http://www.phillyarena.com - Philly sports forum/blog
yes
but in the half court, you saw how many times this season andre miller had to take control for a few possessions because the offense was stagnant (without Brand, obviously). I like a point guard that can score a bit so they’re dangerous in the triple threat. I usually wouldn’t put shooting for 3 so high, but on this team it needs to be a priority.
by Michael Levin on May 5, 2009 9:46 AM PDT up reply actions
Not only was brand absent but there was no reason to worry about the offensive threat from the 5 – the sixers half court offense was atrocious this season – no doubt – but brand and a dveloping speights are just as important to that as a ‘scoring’ point guard…guys who draw doubles.
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 9:48 AM PDT up reply actions
Scoring was really absent from the front court in general. Thad was the only player at the 4 or 5 who could score consistently (the word consistently is what keeps Speights off the list), and he isn’t actually a 4.
Speights can score consistently – he just can’t defend worth a damn – and the sixers don’t call a lot of plays for rookies…speights has range out to 19/20 feet (actual range sam, not delusional range) and a post up (low) game
His defense is pathetic though
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 10:05 AM PDT up reply actions
But the team was 27-16 when Speights scored 8 pts or more
You can rationalize that somewhat by saying he gets points in scrub time… but overall when they got contributions from him it really helped the team win. Consistent offense from Speights was a game-changer this year- even when he did not rebound or defend well.
http://www.phillyarena.com - Philly sports forum/blog
agree
I hated having a black hole at the 5 this season. But having a point guard that can’t score the basketball is similar. What made the Magic so hard to defend the last few games was that we couldn’t double them because Hedo and Lewis could beat their man one-on-one (even though Hedo had a horrible series shooting), and they’d pass out of the double team to another weapon. Having 5 legitimate scoring threats makes the team even more dangerous.
by Michael Levin on May 5, 2009 10:06 AM PDT up reply actions
Thinking back on it...
The Sixers sometimes Evans, Dalembert/Ratliff and Roy Ivey on the floor at the same time. Think about that. Consider what an offensively pathetic lineup that is. God I hope Speights and Jason Smith can play some center.
Also agree with TK below — the need a point guard whose scoring the opponent has to respect when they don’t have the ball in their hands. That’s why I felt that the idea of getting Sergio Rodriguez as the “point guard of the future” for Miller in a mid-season trade was so ridiculous.
About those impotent line-ups
That’s one area where Lou has gotten a bad rap. He sometimes was thrown out there with horrible offensive players and told to “go be the scorer.”
Its impossible to be an effective PG when you have to be afraid of giving the ball to 2-3 of your teammates. That was part of the reason Andre Miller had a bunch of games with few assists and a ton of shots. Sometimes this team has no one who can score- and no Post threat or spot up shooters.
that’s why increased offense from Brand, Speights, Smith, Thad and maybe another shooter is so key for next year. Miller had great value as a scorer who can create his own shot. That will be less important if the team overall develops other efficient weapons.
http://www.phillyarena.com - Philly sports forum/blog
exactly
Our second unit was basically told to hold the ball and use a lot of clock so the starters can get rested. It was awful to watch Lou, Ivey, either Thad or Iggy, Evans, and Theo try to contend. We really didn’t have a backup small forward this season since Rush was a waste and we traded Carney. Get a few weapons on the bench that can do something and all of a sudden the starters don’t have to sweat on the bench too. Smith and Brand healthy will help big time but we do need a backup athletic wing.
by Michael Levin on May 5, 2009 12:03 PM PDT up reply actions
Thad and Iguodala can split the minutes at SF
When Thad was starting at PF they were lacking in SF depth. But shift him to starting SF (and Iguodala at SG) and they have good depth. They could still upgrade at SG, but Lou adn Green are decent as back-up SG’s.
http://www.phillyarena.com - Philly sports forum/blog
but
since they both start, they can never be on the bench at the same time. Because if they are, then its either a 3 guard lineup, or the least athletic lineup of all time. Sign Leo Lyons as an undrafted free agent (although he may get picked after his nice PIT performance), or somebody like Robert Dozier (Memphis), Lorrenzo Wade (SDSU), or Alonzo Gee (Alabama). There’s a bunch of graduating seniors that are athletic enough to be backup wing players, and I’d rather us pickup a rookie FA than sign someone like oh, i don’t know…kareem rush?
by Michael Levin on May 5, 2009 8:44 PM PDT up reply actions
but I'm not sure which pg in the draft best fits this profile
Maybe Maynor or Lawson?
http://www.phillyarena.com - Philly sports forum/blog
Why not both?
I love the idea of Jonny Flynn or Ty lawson being the point guard of the future. In order to be the best they can be, I think they need to learn from one of the best in certain aspects – andre miller.
I think it would be a huge loss if we just let miller go. he is arguably the most underrated player in the nba. the nights that no one on the sixers can buy a bucket, miller steps in and carries the scoring load. his shot fake is second to none. his experience and toughness are undeniable, and I would credit a great deal of lou williams’ progress to andre miller.
But for the draft between Lawson and Jonny Flynn, it’s a toss-up. Gun to my head, I’d take lawson because his speed and quickness would already be among the nba elites. Either way if one of them is taken, their jersey will be purchased with confidence.
I’m not sure where he’d fall in the draft, but I also like the idea of Willie Warren from OU.
He’s arguably the oldest player and shouldn’t be signed for more than 2 years – 3 max – and he’s going to demand a lot of money
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 12:04 PM PDT up reply actions
agreed
yea i just think he was under appreciated in philly
by guitarmouse35 on May 5, 2009 12:13 PM PDT up reply actions
Got any facts to back that up? Cause I think he was appreciated more than he should have been by many…
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 12:20 PM PDT up reply actions
I'm gonna agree with John on this one.
At one point Miller was extremely underrated by Sixers fans. I don’t believe that’s the case anymore. Underrated as far as the average NBA fan — yes, Sixers fan — no.
Willie stayed in school
And Lou Williams hasn’t progressed much and isn’t close to a similar player to Andre. In terms of Miller, that’s why a sign and trade is preferable. Expiring contract and a pick would be ideal, but probably too optimistic.
by Michael Levin on May 5, 2009 12:06 PM PDT up reply actions
thank you for that correction sir to willie.
and yes you are correct lou and andre are not the same players, i just think having a vet like miller can pay dividends
He’s on the wrong side of 30 and his career slide will start soon probably…but yeah – let’s sign him to a long term deal right?
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 12:21 PM PDT up reply actions
And he’ll want more
Let’s look at it rationally
Next year is ‘integrate elton brand and new coach year – more progress from Young and Speights needed’ – not likely a title year
Year after – assuming everything goes perfectly – you’re contending that year hopefully – and miller is how old?
And by then his value is much lower – he’s got strong value and a good young roster full of quality assets that needs a vet point guard for a year or two – portland – i say that’s the ideal -
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 12:28 PM PDT up reply actions
I can’t claim credit for it – it wasn’t my idea
Problem would be making contract money work – and can we get them to take sam.
What’s their feeling on oden (no don’t trade for oden but i’d rather have pryzbilla than sam, i’d rather have anyone than sam) – maybe outlaw – they have a lot of point guards – maybe webster
who really knows – it’s a talk worth having
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 12:32 PM PDT up reply actions
definitely
haha yea i think homeless guy (sammy d) needs to go too. hopefully he has taken his last random top of the key shot as a sixer.
I’d love to have outlaw come off the bench for my team, and pryzbilla is a rebounding machine.
I’m just really excited for the draft, the talk of lawson or flynn playing for the sixers is giving me hope.
side note – isn’t korver a free agent after this year? that’s one of the things I understood but didn’t exactly like that stefanski did. korver gives you 3’s and can actually make free throws.
by guitarmouse35 on May 5, 2009 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions
http://slamonline.com/online/nba/2009/05/sheed-to-retire/
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 3:36 PM PDT reply actions
8M?
Hey, I’d gladly give him that if it was part of a sign and trade for Sam…
http://www.phillyarena.com - Philly sports forum/blog
More than the MLE so he’s talking to teams with cap room then right?
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 3:45 PM PDT up reply actions
Pistons and Oklahoma City?
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 3:59 PM PDT up reply actions
I’ve never found slam online particularly reliable (they make chad ford look like gospel) – and i doubt it’s anything more than posturing and he’ll play for the best offer next year
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 4:14 PM PDT up reply actions
Offer him 25 million for one year – and insert a clause that he loses 1 million dollars for each technical he draws in the regular season
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 5, 2009 4:14 PM PDT up reply actions
Kyle Korver
Does anyone think trying to get Korver back is a bad idea?
He provides strengths for some of our weaknesses. 3pt shooting and free throws.
Sure he won’t be a go-to guy down the stretch, but he can provide a spark off the bench and will actually make free throws to close out games instead of clanking both of them (sorry andre).
The team has an early termination option.
Just a thought.
If available – he’d be worth getting back – trading himi was a bad idea for the completeness of the team..but it helped them get Brand.
If he’s available and if he’s willing to come back
However – he’s not the utmost priority – he’d be a luxury addition after dealng with more important issues
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 6, 2009 8:10 AM PDT up reply actions
Draft Express has Maynor going right after Teague at 18 right now – so they think he’d be available as well…have an interview with him up on their front page now
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 6, 2009 11:40 AM PDT reply actions
Throwing random names that occur to me as I read various articles of guys who might be available this off season
Farmar anyone?
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 6, 2009 12:12 PM PDT reply actions
oh really?
I didnt think he was a free agent after this year. I’m working on a post with some noteable players who are free agents after this year, or could possibly be.
by guitarmouse35 on May 6, 2009 12:32 PM PDT up reply actions
I don’ think he’s a free agent either – but he’s slipped behind Shannon Brown in the rotation in LA and ‘looks unhappy’ – so maybe he’d be available in the off season in a trade
"Someone created the box score," Morey says, "and he should be shot."
Blocked shots — they look great, but unless you secure the ball afterward, you haven’t helped your team all that much.
by jemagee on May 6, 2009 12:47 PM PDT up reply actions
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