CelticsStrong

Celtics Basketball => Game Threads => Topic started by: FLCeltsFan on March 25, 2014, 10:14:06 PM

Title: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: FLCeltsFan on March 25, 2014, 10:14:06 PM
(http://images.footballfanatics.com/FFImage/thumb.aspx?i=/productImages/_424000/FF_424920_xl.jpg) at (http://images.footballfanatics.com/FFImage/thumb.aspx?i=/productImages/_306000/FF_306724_xl.jpg)
Toronto Raptors (39-31) at Boston Celtics (23-47)
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
7:30 PM ET
Regular Season Game #71, Home Game #37
TV: CSNNE, Sportsnet One, NBA-LP 755(DTV), 754(Xfinity)
Radio:  WBZ,  Fan 890
TD Garden

(http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/336623/2587354586_9eb59b3cd9.jpg)

(http://www.sportsecyclopedia.com/nba/boston/00-Celticslogos.gif)
Probable Starters
(http://basketball.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/Rondo_Rajon_bos_1314.jpg)(http://basketball.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/Bradley_Avery_bos_1314.jpg)(http://basketball.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/Green_Jeff_bos_1314.jpg)(http://basketball.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/Bass_Brandon_bos_1314.jpg)(http://basketball.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/Humphries_Kris_bos_1314.jpg)
Rajon Rondo...Avery Bradley...Jeff Green...Brandon Bass...Kris Humphries

Celtics Reserves

Joel Anthony
Chris Johnson
Phil Pressey
Chris Babb
Jared Sullinger
Kelly Olynyk
Jerryd Bayless

Injuries
Keith Bogans (personal) out
Vitor Faverani (knee) out
Gerald Wallace (knee) out

(http://www.insidearenas.com/eastern/pictures/td08900.jpg)

(http://www.sportsecyclopedia.com/nba/toronto/00-Raptorslogos.gif)
Probable Starters
(http://basketball.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/Lowry_Kyle_tor_1314.jpg)(http://basketball.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/DeRozan_DeMar_tor_1314.jpg)(http://basketball.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/Ross_Terrence_tor_1314.jpg)(http://basketball.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/Johnson_Amir_tor_1314.jpg)(http://basketball.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/Valanciunas_Jonas_tor_1314.jpg)
Kyle Lowry...DeMar DeRozan...Terrence Ross...Amir Johnson...Jonas Valanciunas

Raptors Reserves
Tyler Hansbrough
John Salmons
Chuck Hayes
Greivis Vasquez
Landry Fields
Steve Novak
Austin Daye
Julyan Stone
Dwight Buycks

Injuries
Patrick Patterson  (Ulna) out

Game Notes

The Celtics host the division leading Raptors for the 3rd of 4 meetings this season.  The series is tied 1-1 coming into this with each team winning one on their home court so far.  They will meet for the 4th and final time on Friday in Toronto.   

The Raptors are playing in the second of back to back games on the road.  They played in Cleveland on Tuesday night and lost that game by 2 points.  They lead Brooklyn for the Atlantic Division by 1.5 games.  They are the 4th seed and are 1/2 game behind the Bulls for the 3rd seed. 

The Celtics are 5th from the bottom of the league for the lottery.  They are 1/2 game behind Utah for the 4th pick and 1/2 game ahead of the Lakers, who are in the 6th spot.  Both the Celtics and the Raptors lost their last game and are looking to get back into the winning column.

The Celtics have been off since playing the Nets on Friday.  They had a rare 2 days of rest and even rarer, they had 2 days of practice.  They should be rested and ready to play when this game tips off.   The Celtics are 3-7 in their last 10 games while the Nets are 5-5 in their last 10. 

Key Matchups

 (http://i.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/.element/img/2.0/sect/statscube/players/large/avery_bradley.png) vs(http://i.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/.element/img/2.0/sect/statscube/players/large/demar_derozan.png)
Avery Bradley vs DeMar DeRozan
DeRozan is a threat on the offensive end, averaging 22.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. Avery's defense will be needed to keep DeRozan from putting up big numbers in this one.

(http://i.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/.element/img/2.0/sect/statscube/players/large/rajon_rondo.png)vs(http://i.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/.element/img/2.0/sect/statscube/players/large/kyle_lowry.png)
Rajon Rondo vs Kyle Lowry
Lowry is playing very well for the Raptors and is averaging 17.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 7.8 assists, and 1.6 steals  per game this season.   This is Rondo's first game vs the Raptors.  In their last meeting, Lowry scored 18 points with 12 assists matched up against Jordan Crawford. 

Keys to the Game
Consistent Effort- The Celtics must win by being the team that plays harder. They have been playing hard but have lapses during the game. They have to find a way to play hard for 4 quarters and not just 2 or 3.

Rebound - The Celtics must crash the boards to prevent the Raptors from getting extra chances and fast breaks. By crashing the boards, they also give themselves a chance for extra possessions.  In their win vs the Raptors in the last game, the Celtics out rebounded Toronto 58-44, including 19-13 on the offensive glass.  Their 19 offensive rebounds allowed them to score 25 second chance points.  The Celtics must crash the boards once again. 

Get Into the Paint - The Celtics can't depend on their jumpers alone. They have to take the ball to the hoop and win the war in the paint. 

Defense - The Raptors are a good shooting team and so the Celtics must play team defense to keep them from having a high scoring game.  The Celtics must commit to play tough defense if they want to win this game.

X-Factors

Pride vs Position, and Fatigue
The Celtics are playing for pride while the Raptors are playing for playoff position.  Which motivation will be stronger?
The Celtics have been off since Friday while the Raptors are playing in back to back games along with having to travel.  Will the Celtics be rusty or will the Raptors run out of gas? 
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: hwangjini_1 on March 26, 2014, 07:03:21 AM
First of a home and away between these two.

This is the sort of game I hope the celtics play well, give time to the kids, and ultimately fall short. But in any case....

Goooooo celtics,,,,
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: LatterDayCelticsfan on March 26, 2014, 01:33:27 PM
Oh dear, the season just won't end, so we can get our bad lottery luck no. 10 pick and call it a day. Almost makes me want to claim Danny Ainge forfeiting the rest of the season as a BOLD PREDICTION. Anyway, what I will go with is Celtics to collectively go for 3 assists to every turnover, Rajon Rondo to get more blocks than, Jonas Valanciunas, and Brandon Bass to hit a 3.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: LarBrd33 on March 26, 2014, 02:35:08 PM
Come on Boston.  If we finish this season on a 12 game winning streak, we can finish with 35 wins and maybe sneak into the playoffs. 

The rest of the schedule is filled with winnable games.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: nickagneta on March 26, 2014, 02:47:06 PM
First of a home and away between these two.

This is the sort of game I hope the celtics play well, give time to the kids, and ultimately fall short. But in any case....

Goooooo celtics,,,,
C's will go for the win at home tonight but fall short because Toronto is just better than the Celtics. I think you will see more bench player minutes in the game at Toronto because then 2 days later they have back to backs with Chicago in a home and away. I could then see the C's trying to win the first Chicago game and sitting Rondo and Bradley in the 2nd Chicago game to rest them and giving youth and the bench another shot.

Pretty hard not to see 3-4 losses here.

Then we will all see if the tank is on for sure and has reached the level of Stevens throwing games for the greater good or whether he will coach to win and let the draft gods do what they must.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: slamtheking on March 26, 2014, 03:00:14 PM
Come on Boston.  If we finish this season on a 12 game winning streak, we can finish with 35 wins and maybe sneak into the playoffs. 

The rest of the schedule is filled with winnable games.
imposter!!  what have you done with LB33?  ;)
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 06:34:46 PM
LET'S GO CELTICS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 06:35:05 PM
Come on Boston.  If we finish this season on a 12 game winning streak, we can finish with 35 wins and maybe sneak into the playoffs. 

The rest of the schedule is filled with winnable games.
imposter!!  what have you done with LB33?  ;)

LOL
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 07:00:17 PM
so we are the 5th worst team right now. After this major suckage all year and if we blow a top 5 pick none will be too pleased.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Neurotic Guy on March 26, 2014, 07:08:58 PM
Next 4 games are all double impact games as we want Toronto and Chicago to sustain their ever-shrinking lead over Brooklyn.   Difference between 18th and 20th pick (or worse if Nets stay hot and overtake Dallas).  Hope we see 4 straight losses.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: SHAQATTACK on March 26, 2014, 07:31:55 PM
so we are the 5th worst team right now. After this major suckage all year and if we blow a top 5 pick none will be too pleased.


Make me the  "tANK ". GM for the next six weeks "..........I'm not scard or bashful about trying improve the team ......at this point wins are  BAD.....just BAD "........it's the NBA system .....it's like built in help .....to fix a bad team .....

I'm just mad ...... We should be playing the water boys and cheerleaders.

Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Quetzalcoatl on March 26, 2014, 07:46:49 PM
Something about these two teams this year just brings out the worst in both of them.  You would think the Raps were tanking when they play the C's for some reason.  They usually look a LOT better than this.

Next 4 games are all double impact games as we want Toronto and Chicago to sustain their ever-shrinking lead over Brooklyn.   Difference between 18th and 20th pick (or worse if Nets stay hot and overtake Dallas).  Hope we see 4 straight losses.

The fact that we are probably getting the 18th or 19th pick though is a victory in of itself.  I thought we'd be picking like 25th.  The Nets look really good now and if they played like this all season they might even be a 2 seed.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Surferdad on March 26, 2014, 07:50:21 PM
so we are the 5th worst team right now. After this major suckage all year and if we blow a top 5 pick none will be too pleased.
See thread about top 10 picks. Most folks agree you have top-3 then there's a bit of a drop off.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Quetzalcoatl on March 26, 2014, 07:51:42 PM
so we are the 5th worst team right now. After this major suckage all year and if we blow a top 5 pick none will be too pleased.
See thread about top 10 picks. Most folks agree you have top-3 then there's a bit of a drop off.

It's top 4.  Exum is legit
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Surferdad on March 26, 2014, 07:53:35 PM
Sully out of position.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Quetzalcoatl on March 26, 2014, 07:54:45 PM
Man Rondo is throwing out some ridiculously creative passes and nobody can finish
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Tr1boy on March 26, 2014, 08:02:42 PM
Rondo has to pass it to KO more. 
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Quetzalcoatl on March 26, 2014, 08:08:22 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Chief on March 26, 2014, 08:11:43 PM
By far the best lineup. You notice, Stevens hesitates starting or even keeping this lineup in. 
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Chief on March 26, 2014, 08:12:56 PM
By far the best lineup. You notice, Stevens hesitates starting or even keeping this lineup in.

As I typed, Bradley in at pg. A position we all know he can't play. A total tank job.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: PickNRoll on March 26, 2014, 08:15:56 PM
Phantom foul on Olynyk there.  He's gotten the severe rookie treatment all year.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Chief on March 26, 2014, 08:17:50 PM
Chris Johnson= team option!
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: PickNRoll on March 26, 2014, 08:30:01 PM
Nice form, Hump.

http://screencast.com/t/P4peb9brq6c
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 08:31:58 PM
so we are the 5th worst team right now. After this major suckage all year and if we blow a top 5 pick none will be too pleased.


Make me the  "tANK ". GM for the next six weeks "..........I'm not scard or bashful about trying improve the team ......at this point wins are  BAD.....just BAD "........it's the NBA system .....it's like built in help .....to fix a bad team .....

I'm just mad ...... We should be playing the water boys and cheerleaders.



yup
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 08:33:12 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?

yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Quetzalcoatl on March 26, 2014, 08:33:42 PM
The Bobcats are beating the Nets in the 3rd right now, if we lose and the Bobcats win it will go a long way for both our draft picks
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Chief on March 26, 2014, 08:33:51 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.

Ghost town!
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: LarBrd33 on March 26, 2014, 08:34:35 PM
If bradley can keep this up we'll be in good shape innit?
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 08:34:51 PM
By far the best lineup. You notice, Stevens hesitates starting or even keeping this lineup in. 

tank!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Quetzalcoatl on March 26, 2014, 08:35:02 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.

Ghost town!

TPs all around for everyone watching this game. 
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: LarBrd33 on March 26, 2014, 08:35:48 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?

yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.
I remember when Rondo was in his prime.  We were good back then innit.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Chief on March 26, 2014, 08:36:06 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.

Ghost town!

TPs all around for everyone watching this game.

Back at you!
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 08:37:05 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.

Ghost town!

can't blame them. i'm ready for the chinese water torture to end as well but with a top 5 pick. if not there will be hell to pay............
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 08:39:10 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.

Ghost town!

TPs all around for everyone watching this game. 

agreed. only the hardest of the hardcore left watching this crapola now. we are all masochists! lol
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 08:39:59 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.

Ghost town!

TPs all around for everyone watching this game.

Back at you!

yep. i'm hitting you guys with TP's now as well.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Chief on March 26, 2014, 08:40:17 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.

Ghost town!

can't blame them. i'm ready for the chinese water torture to end as well but with a top 5 pick. if not there will be hell to pay............

Bobby Knight said he'd trade a top pick for a young proven NBA player. I am thinking Ainge may do the same.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 08:42:08 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.

Ghost town!

can't blame them. i'm ready for the chinese water torture to end as well but with a top 5 pick. if not there will be hell to pay............

Bobby Knight said he'd trade a top pick for a young proven NBA player. I am thinking Ainge may do the same.

we may have no choice if we blow this tank job. sigh.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Chief on March 26, 2014, 08:44:16 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.

Ghost town!

can't blame them. i'm ready for the chinese water torture to end as well but with a top 5 pick. if not there will be hell to pay............

Bobby Knight said he'd trade a top pick for a young proven NBA player. I am thinking Ainge may do the same.

we may have no choice if we blow this tank job. sigh.

If the Celtics landed Randle and Stauskas I wouldn't complain.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Mr October on March 26, 2014, 08:58:00 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.

Ghost town!

can't blame them. i'm ready for the chinese water torture to end as well but with a top 5 pick. if not there will be hell to pay............

Bobby Knight said he'd trade a top pick for a young proven NBA player. I am thinking Ainge may do the same.

we may have no choice if we blow this tank job. sigh.

If the Celtics landed Randle and Stauskas I wouldn't complain.

I'm down with the scandal for Randle. I'm trying to be comfortable with a 6th worst finish after spending most of the year riding around the 4th worst zone.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Quetzalcoatl on March 26, 2014, 09:06:08 PM
Rondo just cut his forehead, looks like he'll be out for the season now....   ;)
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Who on March 26, 2014, 09:11:36 PM
I really like Valanciunas. I wish the Raptors made more of a point of getting him the ball on offense.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Mr October on March 26, 2014, 09:16:31 PM
I really like Valanciunas. I wish the Raptors made more of a point of getting him the ball on offense.

I haven't seen much of him. How is his defense?
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Who on March 26, 2014, 09:20:03 PM
I really like Valanciunas. I wish the Raptors made more of a point of getting him the ball on offense.

I haven't seen much of him. How is his defense?

It's below average but a lot of that is a lack of experience. It'll come in time.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Surferdad on March 26, 2014, 09:24:21 PM
Man remember when Rondo had a real team around him?  If he had some real players on this team he would be scary.  I can't wait for us to reload.

Also how many people are watching this game right now?  Like 5 or 6?
yeppers. this is the deadest thread all year.

Ghost town!

TPs all around for everyone watching this game.
I shut it off at halftime, he,he.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Neurotic Guy on March 26, 2014, 09:35:00 PM
Nets lose.  Good night for the draft if Raptors hold on.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Mr October on March 26, 2014, 09:39:43 PM
Nets lose.  Good night for the draft if Raptors hold on.

Sweet!
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Mr October on March 26, 2014, 09:41:39 PM
Wow, celtics really worked there way back into this game. Ugg.... I hate rooting for the tank.... Just gotta hang in for 11 more games....
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: SHAQATTACK on March 26, 2014, 09:44:00 PM
Whew

Sitting here sweating out a possible victory...  Sucks wanting loss ...but my heart is in the right place ....a win only hurts


Woo hoo

A BiG L

Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Mr October on March 26, 2014, 09:47:21 PM
Whew

Sitting here sweating out a possible victory...  Sucks wanting loss ...but my heart is in the right place ....a win only hurts


Woo hoo

A BiG L

Amen!

Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: arctic 3.0 on March 26, 2014, 09:53:34 PM
Every battle lost brings us closer to winning the war. Rather Orwellian but I put my faith in the Machiavellian genius that be our fearless leader.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Mr October on March 26, 2014, 09:59:03 PM
Tank count for the night so far....

Celtics lose
Nets lose
Hawks lose .... Soon anyway

bobcats win
Raptors win
Cavs win (Is there anything more pathetic than two sub .400 teams slugging it out for an 8th seed?)

Now we need the big ones. C'mon Utah and Sacramento!!!

Too bad the wizards and pistons lost. Great tank night though.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Tr1boy on March 26, 2014, 10:00:16 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now

Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: SHAQATTACK on March 26, 2014, 10:04:58 PM
Tank count for the night so far....

Celtics lose
Nets lose
Hawks lose .... Soon anyway

bobcats win
Raptors win
Cavs win (Is there anything more pathetic than two sub .400 teams slugging it out for an 8th seed?)

Now we need the big ones. C'mon Utah and Sacramento!!!

Too bad the wizards and pistons lost. Great tank night though.

Thanks for tanking update.

So,  we got to battle the Raptors Friday .......

Helmets on ,  hatches down .....let's get this done. ;D
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Mr October on March 26, 2014, 10:06:08 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now

Many PGs are > Rondo right now. He has a lot of work to do to reclaim his spot as an allstar. Lately he is on par with Ricky Rubio.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: BballTim on March 26, 2014, 10:21:22 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now

  He probably shouldn't get used to it. He's in his 8th year and this is the only year you could say that about him.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: LarBrd33 on March 26, 2014, 10:26:07 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now
Yeah.  Rondo's best days are behind him, but he can still be an effective player in this league if you surround him with superstars.  He can still pass.  He can't shoot worth a lick and his post-prime lack of explosiveness makes him incapable of scoring consistently inside... but he can still pass.

Btw... Rondo got 9 stitches.  Let's say it's a season-ending concussion and call it a year.  Rondo's intangibles are still enough to get us a few too many wins over the remaining 11 games.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: LarBrd33 on March 26, 2014, 10:29:30 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now

Many PGs are > Rondo right now. He has a lot of work to do to reclaim his spot as an allstar. Lately he is on par with Ricky Rubio.
Great comparison... like a slightly more offensively inept Ricky Rubio.

Rondo: 37%/29%/65%
Rubio:  38%/35%/82%

Rondo per-36:  12.6 points, 10.2 assists, 5.7 rebounds, 1.5 steals
Rubio per-36:  10.3 points, 9.7 assists, 5.1 rebounds, 2.8 steals

Pretty even.  Rubio is half a decade younger. 
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Tr1boy on March 26, 2014, 10:39:52 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now
Yeah.  Rondo's best days are behind him, but he can still be an effective player in this league if you surround him with superstars.  He can still pass.  He can't shoot worth a lick and his post-prime lack of explosiveness makes him incapable of scoring consistently inside... but he can still pass.

Btw... Rondo got 9 stitches.  Let's say it's a season-ending concussion and call it a year.  Rondo's intangibles are still enough to get us a few too many wins over the remaining 11 games.

+ 1.

Rondo's inability to shoot nor explode to the basket, gives him only 1 adv right now, and that is passing.  Teams are daring him to shoot while they can help guard everyone else. rondo right now is mainly getting his assist from tick tack inside passes. His inability to explode or penetrate quickly to the basket makes his passes too late to the open man for jump shots

i really don't think his explosiveness will comeback. His body has alot of mileage on it. I mean since he has comeback he haven't seen even 1 explosive play. No dunks, not blowing by guys
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: D.o.s. on March 26, 2014, 10:40:58 PM
(http://melissaeastondesign.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/11_01.jpg)
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Chief on March 26, 2014, 10:44:36 PM
Bass -19.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: LarBrd33 on March 26, 2014, 10:45:05 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now
Yeah.  Rondo's best days are behind him, but he can still be an effective player in this league if you surround him with superstars.  He can still pass.  He can't shoot worth a lick and his post-prime lack of explosiveness makes him incapable of scoring consistently inside... but he can still pass.

Btw... Rondo got 9 stitches.  Let's say it's a season-ending concussion and call it a year.  Rondo's intangibles are still enough to get us a few too many wins over the remaining 11 games.

+ 1.

Rondo's inability to shoot nor explode to the basket, gives him only 1 adv right now, and that is passing.  Teams are daring him to shoot while they can help guard everyone else. rondo right now is mainly getting his assist from tick tack inside passes. His inability to explode or penetrate quickly to the basket makes his passes too late to the open man for jump shots

i really don't think his explosiveness will comeback. His body has alot of mileage on it. I mean since he has comeback he haven't seen even 1 explosive play. No dunks, not blowing by guys
I have to imagine it was a lot easier attacking the basket when you had floor-spreading big like KG on the floor... he always took the opposing big out of the paint, because his entire offense revolved around mid-range jumpers.  Also didn't hurt when he had Ray Allen out there demanding attention beyond the arc... oh... and the fact that Paul Pierce was one of the most versatile and dangerous offensive weapons in the league.  Opposing teams were usually focused on Pierce.  A lot easier to penetrate inside when nobody is waiting for you there and they are more concerned with stopping the hall of fame talent you share the court with.   Sure, I understand that some of his struggles have to do with his injury recovery... but this is also what a lot of people expected in the post-Big 3 era...   Rondo's always been a weak offensive player and now he's getting all the attention.

He still passes well, though.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Chief on March 26, 2014, 10:46:38 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now

Many PGs are > Rondo right now. He has a lot of work to do to reclaim his spot as an allstar. Lately he is on par with Ricky Rubio.
Great comparison... like a slightly more offensively inept Ricky Rubio.

Rondo: 37%/29%/65%
Rubio:  38%/35%/82%

Rondo per-36:  12.6 points, 10.2 assists, 5.7 rebounds, 1.5 steals
Rubio per-36:  10.3 points, 9.7 assists, 5.1 rebounds, 2.8 steals

Pretty even.  Rubio is half a decade younger.

Hide all of this from Kevin Love please!
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Tr1boy on March 26, 2014, 11:03:35 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now
Yeah.  Rondo's best days are behind him, but he can still be an effective player in this league if you surround him with superstars.  He can still pass.  He can't shoot worth a lick and his post-prime lack of explosiveness makes him incapable of scoring consistently inside... but he can still pass.

Btw... Rondo got 9 stitches.  Let's say it's a season-ending concussion and call it a year.  Rondo's intangibles are still enough to get us a few too many wins over the remaining 11 games.

+ 1.

Rondo's inability to shoot nor explode to the basket, gives him only 1 adv right now, and that is passing.  Teams are daring him to shoot while they can help guard everyone else. rondo right now is mainly getting his assist from tick tack inside passes. His inability to explode or penetrate quickly to the basket makes his passes too late to the open man for jump shots

i really don't think his explosiveness will comeback. His body has alot of mileage on it. I mean since he has comeback he haven't seen even 1 explosive play. No dunks, not blowing by guys
I have to imagine it was a lot easier attacking the basket when you had floor-spreading big like KG on the floor... he always took the opposing big out of the paint, because his entire offense revolved around mid-range jumpers.  Also didn't hurt when he had Ray Allen out there demanding attention beyond the arc... oh... and the fact that Paul Pierce was one of the most versatile and dangerous offensive weapons in the league.  Opposing teams were usually focused on Pierce.  A lot easier to penetrate inside when nobody is waiting for you there and they are more concerned with stopping the hall of fame talent you share the court with.   Sure, I understand that some of his struggles have to do with his injury recovery... but this is also what a lot of people expected in the post-Big 3 era...   Rondo's always been a weak offensive player and now he's getting all the attention.

He still passes well, though.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyqwAt-uqu4

Will we ever see the above from Rondo again?   i mean if not, he just becomes a good passing pg.   Is that somebody you give out a near max contract to?
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: LarBrd33 on March 26, 2014, 11:09:02 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now

Many PGs are > Rondo right now. He has a lot of work to do to reclaim his spot as an allstar. Lately he is on par with Ricky Rubio.
Great comparison... like a slightly more offensively inept Ricky Rubio.

Rondo: 37%/29%/65%
Rubio:  38%/35%/82%

Rondo per-36:  12.6 points, 10.2 assists, 5.7 rebounds, 1.5 steals
Rubio per-36:  10.3 points, 9.7 assists, 5.1 rebounds, 2.8 steals

Pretty even.  Rubio is half a decade younger.

Hide all of this from Kevin Love please!
Love is going to be a Laker.  It's the 2nd worst kept secret in Hollywood behind Kevin Spacey's homosexuality.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: BballTim on March 26, 2014, 11:10:07 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now
Yeah.  Rondo's best days are behind him, but he can still be an effective player in this league if you surround him with superstars.  He can still pass.  He can't shoot worth a lick and his post-prime lack of explosiveness makes him incapable of scoring consistently inside... but he can still pass.

Btw... Rondo got 9 stitches.  Let's say it's a season-ending concussion and call it a year.  Rondo's intangibles are still enough to get us a few too many wins over the remaining 11 games.

+ 1.

Rondo's inability to shoot nor explode to the basket, gives him only 1 adv right now, and that is passing.  Teams are daring him to shoot while they can help guard everyone else. rondo right now is mainly getting his assist from tick tack inside passes. His inability to explode or penetrate quickly to the basket makes his passes too late to the open man for jump shots

  This isn't at all true. A quarter or so of his assists are on threes, and probably close to a quarter more are from 15+ feet.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: D.o.s. on March 26, 2014, 11:12:32 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now

Many PGs are > Rondo right now. He has a lot of work to do to reclaim his spot as an allstar. Lately he is on par with Ricky Rubio.
Great comparison... like a slightly more offensively inept Ricky Rubio.

Rondo: 37%/29%/65%
Rubio:  38%/35%/82%

Rondo per-36:  12.6 points, 10.2 assists, 5.7 rebounds, 1.5 steals
Rubio per-36:  10.3 points, 9.7 assists, 5.1 rebounds, 2.8 steals

Pretty even.  Rubio is half a decade younger.

Hide all of this from Kevin Love please!
Love is going to be a Laker.  It's the 2nd worst kept secret in Hollywood behind Kevin Spacey's homosexuality.

Not quite a given with the roster the way it's currently constructed, but a lot can change in two off-seasons.

And, FWIW, I believe that Kevin Spacey thanked his girlfriend, who was present, when he got his Oscar for American Beauty.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 11:15:52 PM
Every game left the starting lineup should be

pressy
bayless
Babb
Johnson
Anthony


small ball anyone???

That should give us what we need.    :D
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Boston Garden Leprechaun on March 26, 2014, 11:17:31 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now

Many PGs are > Rondo right now. He has a lot of work to do to reclaim his spot as an allstar. Lately he is on par with Ricky Rubio.
Great comparison... like a slightly more offensively inept Ricky Rubio.

Rondo: 37%/29%/65%
Rubio:  38%/35%/82%

Rondo per-36:  12.6 points, 10.2 assists, 5.7 rebounds, 1.5 steals
Rubio per-36:  10.3 points, 9.7 assists, 5.1 rebounds, 2.8 steals

Pretty even.  Rubio is half a decade younger.

Hide all of this from Kevin Love please!

lol
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Vox_Populi on March 26, 2014, 11:22:37 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now

Many PGs are > Rondo right now. He has a lot of work to do to reclaim his spot as an allstar. Lately he is on par with Ricky Rubio.
Great comparison... like a slightly more offensively inept Ricky Rubio.

Rondo: 37%/29%/65%
Rubio:  38%/35%/82%

Rondo per-36:  12.6 points, 10.2 assists, 5.7 rebounds, 1.5 steals
Rubio per-36:  10.3 points, 9.7 assists, 5.1 rebounds, 2.8 steals

Pretty even.  Rubio is half a decade younger.

Hide all of this from Kevin Love please!
Love is going to be a Laker.  It's the 2nd worst kept secret in Hollywood behind Kevin Spacey's homosexuality.
You need a show.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Tr1boy on March 26, 2014, 11:23:48 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now
Yeah.  Rondo's best days are behind him, but he can still be an effective player in this league if you surround him with superstars.  He can still pass.  He can't shoot worth a lick and his post-prime lack of explosiveness makes him incapable of scoring consistently inside... but he can still pass.

Btw... Rondo got 9 stitches.  Let's say it's a season-ending concussion and call it a year.  Rondo's intangibles are still enough to get us a few too many wins over the remaining 11 games.

+ 1.

Rondo's inability to shoot nor explode to the basket, gives him only 1 adv right now, and that is passing.  Teams are daring him to shoot while they can help guard everyone else. rondo right now is mainly getting his assist from tick tack inside passes. His inability to explode or penetrate quickly to the basket makes his passes too late to the open man for jump shots

  This isn't at all true. A quarter or so of his assists are on threes, and probably close to a quarter more are from 15+ feet.

Yeah but those are when he is usually in standstill waving guys around screens to get open. Or driving in a few steps before handing the ball off to Bass or someone.
I'm talking about penetrating quickly, collapsing the defense and feeding guys open threes.   He used to be able to do this with Allen, Pierce and KG (18 ft) all around the three pt line.

Now its taking alot more effort or guys once they receive passes don't have as much time and space to shoot (passes are projectable). I mean nobody is buying Rondo's ability to shoot nor finish around the basket.  There is minimal need to collapse to try to stop him

Rondo got 15 assist tonight but the team shot at 40 percent (it's been like this ever since he has comeback). There is something not right about that.  It's not like Rondo is feeding freebees like he used to be able to before. He is working hard for his assist and expecting guys to run around multiple screens, set him i don't know how many picks.    If he got 8 assists, scored more efficiently i bet our overall shooting efficiency would be better.     The team passing also has gone down. Guys like Olynyk used to pass 2-3 a game. These days with Rondo having the ball mainly to himself, he can't utilize this skill.  If you let him and others also facilitate the offense, this opens up the floor more and causes the opposing defense to have to work harder.  Right now its all too predictable if you ask me. 
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: LarBrd33 on March 26, 2014, 11:27:17 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now

Many PGs are > Rondo right now. He has a lot of work to do to reclaim his spot as an allstar. Lately he is on par with Ricky Rubio.
Great comparison... like a slightly more offensively inept Ricky Rubio.

Rondo: 37%/29%/65%
Rubio:  38%/35%/82%

Rondo per-36:  12.6 points, 10.2 assists, 5.7 rebounds, 1.5 steals
Rubio per-36:  10.3 points, 9.7 assists, 5.1 rebounds, 2.8 steals

Pretty even.  Rubio is half a decade younger.

Hide all of this from Kevin Love please!
Love is going to be a Laker.  It's the 2nd worst kept secret in Hollywood behind Kevin Spacey's homosexuality.


And, FWIW, I believe that Kevin Spacey thanked his girlfriend, who was present, when he got his Oscar for American Beauty.
Hah.  Like that means anything.  Reminds me of when people kept pointing out Ellen Page had a "boyfriend"... like it negated the many reports of her being a lesbian.  Thankfully she finally came out.   It's well known in Hollywood circles that Spacey is gay.  I'm just saying that it's the worst kept secret in Hollywood... 2nd worst kept secret is the fact that Kevin Love is going to be a Laker either this offseason via trade or in 2015 via free agency.  Dude was born to play for that team. 

Lakers trade:  2014 Top 8 pick, future picks, Kevin Spacey's "girlfriend" and a trade exception
'Sota trades:  Kevin Love

Book it.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: LarBrd33 on March 26, 2014, 11:37:29 PM
Every game left the starting lineup should be

pressy
bayless
Babb
Johnson
Anthony


small ball anyone???

That should give us what we need.    :D
If I was in Rondo's position... I'd probably just shut myself down.  I know it's one thing to be "competitive"... but Rondo is stuck with this team at least one more season (if we don't trade him).  Our best chance of putting some talent next to him next season is to lose as many games a possible from here on out.  Those top 4 picks are pure gold and right now we're barely hanging onto the 4th worst record.  There's not really anything to gain from winning any of these final 11 games. 
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: BballTim on March 27, 2014, 07:35:31 AM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now
Yeah.  Rondo's best days are behind him, but he can still be an effective player in this league if you surround him with superstars.  He can still pass.  He can't shoot worth a lick and his post-prime lack of explosiveness makes him incapable of scoring consistently inside... but he can still pass.

Btw... Rondo got 9 stitches.  Let's say it's a season-ending concussion and call it a year.  Rondo's intangibles are still enough to get us a few too many wins over the remaining 11 games.

+ 1.

Rondo's inability to shoot nor explode to the basket, gives him only 1 adv right now, and that is passing.  Teams are daring him to shoot while they can help guard everyone else. rondo right now is mainly getting his assist from tick tack inside passes. His inability to explode or penetrate quickly to the basket makes his passes too late to the open man for jump shots

  This isn't at all true. A quarter or so of his assists are on threes, and probably close to a quarter more are from 15+ feet.

Yeah but those are when he is usually in standstill waving guys around screens to get open. Or driving in a few steps before handing the ball off to Bass or someone.
I'm talking about penetrating quickly, collapsing the defense and feeding guys open threes.   He used to be able to do this with Allen, Pierce and KG (18 ft) all around the three pt line.

Now its taking alot more effort or guys once they receive passes don't have as much time and space to shoot (passes are projectable). I mean nobody is buying Rondo's ability to shoot nor finish around the basket.  There is minimal need to collapse to try to stop him

Rondo got 15 assist tonight but the team shot at 40 percent (it's been like this ever since he has comeback). There is something not right about that.  It's not like Rondo is feeding freebees like he used to be able to before. He is working hard for his assist and expecting guys to run around multiple screens, set him i don't know how many picks.    If he got 8 assists, scored more efficiently i bet our overall shooting efficiency would be better.     The team passing also has gone down. Guys like Olynyk used to pass 2-3 a game. These days with Rondo having the ball mainly to himself, he can't utilize this skill.  If you let him and others also facilitate the offense, this opens up the floor more and causes the opposing defense to have to work harder.  Right now its all too predictable if you ask me.

  On nba.com they measure the number of drives per game (from more than 20 ft from the basket to less than 10, not in transition) a player makes, Rondo's among the league leaders. He's not standing around and waiving people around most of the time. The team passing (in any measure of assists) has gone up since Rondo came back, not down. Also, the team scores much more efficiently off of Rondo's passes than they otherwise do. His passing less and shooting more would make us less efficient, not more efficient. And I guess if Rondo's still getting his assists but it's from much harder shots than before you must think we have better shooters now than we did with PP/RA/KG.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Who on March 27, 2014, 10:09:59 AM
2nd worst kept secret is the fact that Kevin Love is going to be a Laker either this offseason via trade or in 2015 via free agency.  Dude was born to play for that team. 
I don't think K-Love is going to go to LA. The team is in a bad way.

I think K-Love is really sick of mediocrity in Minnesota and won't go to LA (even though it probably would be his 1st option otherwise) unless they show they can compete for a title ... which I don't think they can prove. Not with their roster in the state it is in. Not with Kobe coming off a career-threatening injury. Not with Pau Gasol slowing down. With minimal trade assets and cap flexibility (once K-Love signs with Kobe's $25mil extension, those two contracts wiping out almost all cap space).

The team is just in too rocky a situation.

I think LA needs to make a big upgrade somewhere before they can convince a top free agent like Melo or K-Love to join them. They just have too much ground to make up to go from where they currently are (~25 win team) to challenging for an NBA title. Too much ground for one major FA signing to make up for on his own. I think LAL will be looking at 2nd or 3rd tier free agents until they close that gap.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: PickNRoll on March 27, 2014, 07:42:53 PM
can't believe i'm typing this. But lowry > Rondo now
Yeah.  Rondo's best days are behind him, but he can still be an effective player in this league if you surround him with superstars.  He can still pass.  He can't shoot worth a lick and his post-prime lack of explosiveness makes him incapable of scoring consistently inside... but he can still pass.

Btw... Rondo got 9 stitches.  Let's say it's a season-ending concussion and call it a year.  Rondo's intangibles are still enough to get us a few too many wins over the remaining 11 games.

+ 1.

Rondo's inability to shoot nor explode to the basket, gives him only 1 adv right now, and that is passing.  Teams are daring him to shoot while they can help guard everyone else. rondo right now is mainly getting his assist from tick tack inside passes. His inability to explode or penetrate quickly to the basket makes his passes too late to the open man for jump shots

i really don't think his explosiveness will comeback. His body has alot of mileage on it. I mean since he has comeback he haven't seen even 1 explosive play. No dunks, not blowing by guys
Physically, he's about 80%.  Mentally, maybe less.  He's not willing to push it, and I don't blame him.  We haven't seen an explosive play because he doesn't have it yet. At this level, 10% can be the difference between elite and ho-hum.  Give it time.

Also, Spacey IS gay and Rubio couldn't carry Rondo's jock if he had a spotter.
Title: Re: Raptors (39-31) at Celtics (23-47) Game #71 3/26/14
Post by: Mr October on March 27, 2014, 07:55:06 PM
2nd worst kept secret is the fact that Kevin Love is going to be a Laker either this offseason via trade or in 2015 via free agency.  Dude was born to play for that team. 
I don't think K-Love is going to go to LA. The team is in a bad way.

I think K-Love is really sick of mediocrity in Minnesota and won't go to LA (even though it probably would be his 1st option otherwise) unless they show they can compete for a title ... which I don't think they can prove. Not with their roster in the state it is in. Not with Kobe coming off a career-threatening injury. Not with Pau Gasol slowing down. With minimal trade assets and cap flexibility (once K-Love signs with Kobe's $25mil extension, those two contracts wiping out almost all cap space).

The team is just in too rocky a situation.

I think LA needs to make a big upgrade somewhere before they can convince a top free agent like Melo or K-Love to join them. They just have too much ground to make up to go from where they currently are (~25 win team) to challenging for an NBA title. Too much ground for one major FA signing to make up for on his own. I think LAL will be looking at 2nd or 3rd tier free agents until they close that gap.

Yeah, LA is not in a good way these days. They messed up with Dwight Howard. They messed up with the coaching carousel:  hiring mike Brown, passing on Phil Jackson, hiring Mike D'Antoni. No one has faith in the new owner leadership. Jim Buss so far appears to be the Dan Gilbert of the West coast. He wants his fingerprints on the team. They have irritated another star in Pau Gasol. They have killed their cap for the next two years by overpaying Kobe Bryant. One star plus old Kobe plus a handful of role players are not going anywhere in the west. Also don't forget about Nash's 9.7 million.

They will bounce back. But this summer and possibly next will be a tough sell. They have some PR work to do this summer.