Chase in West Palm Beach:
Steve, my Magic dude, what is the most likely thing we hear from the Magic come July 1st?
Steve Kyler:
Welcome in everyone... hope the draft was fun for you... with free agency just a few hours away let me jump right in...
July 1st, you hear that hedo Turkoglu and marcin Gortat get offers from a team other than Orlando. The Magic will be waiting this out, they are not a big money player so they will be waiting to see who falls to them.
Faiz in Chicago:
Will the bulls make a big trade this offseason? they would have to get rid of dengs horrible contract i presume.
Where do you think Ben Gordon is going to go?
Steve Kyler:
Unlikely... they Bulls will make an offer to Ben Gordon, the question becomes does Oklahoma City or Detroit price the Bulls out of the game?... On the trade front, I think they have a deep enough roster to consider deals, but I doubt they make any major changes, especially if they lose Gordon.
Jim O'Brien in Indy:
Steve, it appears I am done in Indiana after this year. I don't have the talent to compete. Is my boss going to do anything to improve this team? My team is slightly above average at best
Steve Kyler:
JO, your not getting the blame so don;t worry... everyone understands you have a young team that has had some tough injuries... you'll get all of this year unless you tank out of the gate.
derek in orlando, fl:
Hey Steve, How interested is Utah in Turk?
Steve Kyler:
Not that I have heard, unless it involved a sign and trade... Detroit, Toronto and Portland are the suitors for Turk - I would say that he is a second or third option... it;s gonna be a tough summer for Hedo.
derek in orlando, fl:
Steve, There are said to be remote possibilities that Magic do S/T Turk. What teams would be on the receiving end of that? And whom might Magic get in returns?
Steve Kyler:
If the Magic do a sign and trade, it would be to a team of Hedo's choosing not Orlando, the Magic also would not take back much... think about the Rashard Lewis deal, Seattle got some second rounders for brokering the deal... don't beleive for a minute the Magic take back $7 or $8 million in salary, if they were open to that they'd give it to Hedo... if a player is involved it would be a minor contract.
derek in orlando, fl:
Current FA talk going on says Magic may get Bass, Dice, and 'Sheed. Would they all be good fits? The finances seem to say only getting 1 or 2 of them is what's realistic.
Steve Kyler:
Brandon Bass is the best fit... Dice and Sheed are gonna cost too much... not sure Dallas lets Bass get away, they can offer him the most money.
derek in orlando, fl:
Is there any talk of Marion, Artest or other significant players who might take big cuts to play with a contender, i.e. Magic?
Steve Kyler:
No one leaves money on the table... Marion and Toronto have an understanding - if Shawn and the Raptors can't reach a deal, Bryan will sign and trade him, so he's gonna get his money... Ron Artest won't be taking a pay cut either, he might sign a shorter term deal to stay in Houston, but its not likely that he takes an exception deal.
derek in orlando, fl:
Assuming Magic land a target big or two, will they move onto acquiring a combo guard or SF backup? Would Arroyo be a fair option to return for the Magic?
Steve Kyler:
Carlos was poison, so no chance he's back in Orlando - he's in Europe because most teams know he's a cancer in the locker room.... scratch him off your list... The Magic will be bargain hunters thats for sure, but keep in mind - PG - Jameer, Anthony Johnson, SG - Pietrus, Redick, SF - Vince Carter, PF- Rashard Lewis, C- Dwight Howard - thats about all you have... they need three or four players, some will come from free agency, some will come from Summer League.
luke_warm in where amazing happens:
Do you think Gortat could be a starter if the Rockets sign him?
Steve Kyler:
Yes... I think with Yao out indifferently, Marcin's value when through the roof... but Houston is not the only team interested, so stay tuned, Marcin will get a lot of attention.
derek in :
Playing around w/ the idea Magic do land Bass or 'Sheed. I think they would want to start, and then the Magic would seriously consider changing their "hybrid 4" lineup. What would the Magic finally conclude?
Steve Kyler:
I think they did that when they got Vince Carter, unless Hedo somehow stays - keep in mind that adding Vince Carter and Rasheed Wallace would be toxic to this Magic team, these guys are not ready for those kinds of egos... Looks good on paper, but in reality, the team likely goes backwards if Wallace and Carter are focal points.
derek in orlando, fl:
Im hearing Linas Kleiza can take a MLE or maybe partal of it. WOuld he not be a great fit for Magic at the 3 and maintaining the "hybrid 4" lineup? MP wins 6th man of the year award too.
Steve Kyler:
Maybe, but Denver wants to keep LK, so as long as they are in the mix they can offer more money.
derek in orlando, fl:
Glen Davis would make a great fit w/ the Magic. He has that low, wide, heavy body for banging and post defending, but is surprisingly athletic and has shown the Magic firsthand his great outside shooting. Any chance Magic pursue him?
Steve Kyler:
The celtics gave him a Qualifying Offer, so they can match anything he receives... that said anything Orlando could offer, Boston would match so it;s not an option.
sunny pacasum in bangsamoro:
who will the rockets trade for TMAC? and who will they get in the FA?
Steve Kyler:
Tracy is not a tradeble asset right now... sources close to the Rockets say the offers received so far are a joke, and that until Tracy proves he can play they are stuck with him... as for Free agents, hard to say... they have a list of guys but with Yao out for the foreseeable future and Tracy out through January at best - who signs up for that? - top shelf guys are gonna pass on Houston.
clint in :
Do you think the Spurs will go after Janerro Pargo again like last year before he bolted over seas? Maybe 2 million with the bianual... George Hill can slide over to back up Jefferson and we wouldn't have to let Mason try and play point again
Steve Kyler:
Unlikely... new Orleans seems like where Pargo lands, although anything possible... if you look at San Antonio right now, they are gonna struggle to get free agents to come because they may not get minutes... also keep in mind that Bruce Bowen could get released - if he does he'll likely be back in San Antonio this summer.
Rasheed in San Antonio, Tx:
If I go ahead and take the MLE with the Spurs will I get another ring and be able to wear my championship belt again???
Steve Kyler:
Likely... The Spurs are stacked, and adding you fits... of all the teams that have been linked to you Cleveland and San Antonio are mature enough to handle what you bring off-the-court - Orlando is too immature for your style... I think Mid-Level is your market value, the question becomes where you want to play?
Josh Meyer in Fort Dodge, IA:
What are the odds of Rubio eventually signing with my Wolves?
Steve Kyler:
Low... they have to trade one of the two - Rubio is never gonna play with Jonny Flynn, so the question is which one stays and which one goes.
Josh Meyer in Fort Dodge, IA:
How close is Rubio to reaching a buyout with DKV?
Steve Kyler:
Not close at all - remember Joventut no longer holds his contract - the Spanish IRS does... Rubio's camp filed a grievance before an arbitrator, who was expected to reduce the buyout from $8 million to $4 million - that has not happened. Rubio's future is not tied to the contract, thats now a financial matter, Rubio opt'd out, now he has a debt - the arbitrator will set what the real value of the debt is, and Rubio will then have to pay it - Joventut is not in the equation.
Josh Meyer in Fort Dodge, IA:
Can you confirm if Mark Jackson is the favorite to replace McHale on the bench in Minny?
Steve Kyler:
I can not confirm it... because Kahn is not talking, but when he announced that McHale was not coming back, people I spoke to said Jackson had been contacted and he had contacted others about joining a possible staff - so Jackson thinks he's a candidate... I think Kahn is looking at his options, I have been told that Sam Mitchell is not an option, that was something Rubio's camp was concerned about.
Josh Meyer in Fort Dodge, IA:
Will my Wolves be active in free agency?
Steve Kyler:
Should be, they have a lot of chips and David Kahn is hell bent to remake the team in his image.
Josh Meyer in Fort Dodge, IA:
Any chance of my Wolves keeping both Flynn and Rubio?
Steve Kyler:
None whatsoever... I have spoken to people close to the Rubio situation and they are not at all open to Ricky sharing time - they want the derrick Rose scenario - all the minutes and touches he can handle... the funny thing is Jonny Flynn's camp has no interest in Jonny sharing time either, they just don't have to say that because Rubio's camp is saying it.
sean in san antonio:
can you give me a mock roster for the san antonio
Steve Kyler:
I can do better than that... here is their actual roster... Gooden wants to come back and so does Udoka
Josh Meyer in Fort Dodge, IA:
Any interesting potential trades on the table for Rubio?
Steve Kyler:
They have gotten a lot of calls, but I am not sold they are seriously considering anything... Kahn won't address it and Rubio's camp is not involved, once teams star talking free agents I think more will surface, keep in mind Dan Fegan, Rubio's agent also represents Shawn Marion so he'll be talking to teams and planting ideas - that much you can bet on.
Josh Meyer in Fort Dodge, IA:
Did my Wolves draft Norel just to please Rubio?
Steve Kyler:
Seems that way, but lets be honest Henk is a solid player too, so it was not a throw away pick, but it was about making sure Ricky felt good about being in the NBA... thats a smart move... solved two needs.
Nat in Ottawa:
Doug Smith of the Toronto Star is suggesting BC has had some talks with other teams re: S&T for marion. Any idea which teams might be interested and what they might offer?
Steve Kyler:
I have talked at length with bryan and Shawn and his camp - the ideal situation is Shawn comes back... its about dollars, if they can not reach a deal Bryan told me he promised Shawn when he traded for him that he'd help him get his next deal - either in Toronto or elsewhere... Bryan is a stand up guy, so I doubt seriously this becomes a problem... as for who wants Shawn, have not heard his name a lot because most think he's coming back to Toronto.
sean in san antonio:
who will be the next number 1 pick next year?
Steve Kyler:
John Wall, freshman - University of Kentucky... Derrick Favors, freshman - Georgia Tech - those are the two top names in the 2010 Class.
gates in chicago:
how about hedo (sing and trade) +any available piece in magic roster for boozer. Magic would find their true PF (Honestly I don't think they need a so called true PF) and Jazz gets rid of a trouble in locker room and gets a clutch guy.
Steve Kyler:
They are not gonna spend that kind of money... Carlos if he does not opt-out might be more palatable because he'd be a one-year player, but the Magic currently have Dwight - $15 million, Rashard - $18 million, Vince -$16 million and Jameer at $7 million - thats $56 million in 4 players, they simply have no assets to acquire Carlos at $12.7 million - their four remaining contract only add up to $11.2 million... a sign and trade means they'd have to send out roughly what they take back... Just too expensive...
Josh Meyer in Fort Dodge, IA:
Do you think Rubio will ever play for my Wolves?
Steve Kyler:
Unlikely... unless they change course and trade Jonny Flynn.... Here is my thoughts - Rubio doesn't want to be there, that was not ideal to start with... he has the most value, he;s the guy you trade and you try and get an unprotected pick next year and grab a better player from the 2010 pool.
Kyle in Oregon:
Hey Steve... Are the Magic still in the running for Sheed and/or Bass?
Steve Kyler:
Considering no one can talk to anyone... sure, ask again in 20 hours... I think both players get offers bigger than Orlando can absorb.
Calvin in Key West:
Hey Steve... It seems as if Hedo is a goner. Is he headed to Utah or Portland and what do we get in return if we get anything? Draft picks? Cash?
Steve Kyler:
As I said earlier, I have been told Orlando would do a sign and trade, but they are not taking back garbage to do it... think Keyon Dooling, if they pick up a sizable trade exception and a player or draft asset they'd do that for Hedo.... taking back a bunch of garbage players so Hedo gets paid is not in the game plan.
Jared in Memphis:
Hey Steve-O! There was a report saying that Otis Smith and the Magic would rather split the MLE among a number of players. Who are they targeting? Sheed still?
Steve Kyler:
Thats what I have heard too... don't count on Rasheed, he;d be toxic in Orlando... the Magic have 9 players under contract, so they need four bodies... also keep in mind they feel like their starting core is set... they will be very opportunistic, especially with veteran free agents at the minimum.
There has been a lot of talk of the Magic paying tax, keep in mind last year there were 7 teams that paid roughly $89 million in tax, meaning each non-tax team gets roughly $4 million - this year, the tax pool looks to be far lower - five teams are looking at a $20 million tax pool, meaning each non-tax team gets $400K, thats not enough to matter... it used to be a huge swing, now it;s not quite the penalty, so you see why the Magic are opne to a minor tax payment, but they won't be a huge tax payer./
William in Orlando:
I really think the Magic needs another PG. Are they thinking the same thing?
Steve Kyler:
They'll add one or two from free agency and see who fits.
Cain in New Zealand:
Will TJ Ford be the likely starting Point Guard for Pacers? Is there any player out their that they could obtain through trade without giving up Granger to become a title threat?
Steve Kyler:
They have TJ Ford... Jamal Tinsley... a qualifying offer to Jarret Jack and Travis Diener - they have point guards, upgrading will require a trade... they are open to it, but they have a ton of salary tied to the spot on it already.
David in Couva, Trinidad and Tobago:
Hedo had an extension (4yrs 36mil),offer from the magic, but still opts out. He may get more money from another team, but with no state tax in FL it may not be as much as he thinks. Maybe a chance at a 2-4 year run at a title in orlando...what gives?
Steve Kyler:
Had not heard those dollar amounts... it's more about the number of years... Turks wants long term security... a four-year deal puts him into the end of his career... he wants those extra years.
Faiz in Chicago, IL:
Do you think the bulls will make a push for bosh this offseason?
will they bring back BG?
Steve Kyler:
Not this off-season... Toronto is not gonna trade Bosh unless they get hammered out of the gate, they feel like they can be a winner as constructed - I think their position changes if they can not get Marion back or injury strikes, but If I were betting, I'd bet Bosh starts the season in Toronto, whether he ends it there depends on their record
colin in oregon:
well looks like houston might have to use their FA money to sign a couple cheap centers or trade mcgrady for them. i'm thinkin houston goes after gortat, zaza,ratliff,mihm, or whoever. your thoughts? if they do sign a couple C's what happens to ron?
Steve Kyler:
We have been told Gortat is on thier board... but I'd ask this question - why go after centers now?... They have no future today - McGrady is not the answer, neither is Yao - they could have a boatload of money next year if Yao helps them out, but if he;s done he's not opting out of his deal.
Why try and band aid a team together, why not say this is who we are, play out the season - trade off the pieces that don't have a bright future, collect a draft pick or two and go for John walla or derrick favors next year and get a future that someone would want to be part of next year?
You have some roster pieces that will win some games, but your not going to get anyone that gets you past the Lakers or the Spurs so your a first round exit team, even if you get a serious addition - not sold band aids help this team - they over achieved last year without Yao they are not in the playoffs.
colin in oregon:
my opinion is the magic should go after a legit PF instead of hedo. someone like wallace,mcdyess,gooden,charliev,milsap, or boozer. your thoughts?
Steve Kyler:
I am not sure they need a named player... where does that guy get touches with this team... they need a Ben Wallace type - someone who can rebound, play defense and bring intensity, but does not need offensive touches.... would love to see Drew Gooden back in Orlando, but its unlikely any of those guys are serious candidates for Orlando.
Shahid in Los Angeles, CA:
Aside from resigning their FA, are the Lakers looking to trade for anyone particular; Nate Robinson, Devin Harris (wishful thinking)? It doesn't appear that Jordan Farmar is their future PG. He seems more like a backup PG than a starting PG.
Steve Kyler:
So the team that won the NBA title needs to make a serious trade?... not gonna happen, they are in retention mode... Farmar has no value so don't hold your breath that the Lakers tinker with a title team that won 65 games.
Cain in New Zealand:
Any trade rumors coming out of Indiana? Any chance that they make a play at Flynn?
Steve Kyler:
No chance they get Jonny Flynn... they have summer league in Orlando next week and limited resources to make additions... they are still trying to find a taker for Jaamal Tinsley
Cubes in :
What's the best way for me to continue fan support while stringing my fanbase on another year? (Roddy Beaubois ain't doin it)
S&T Kidd + ? for Rondo/Allen?
S&T Bass for S&T Gortat?
Sheed with the MLE?
Stack+Damp for Josh Smith/Filler?
Steve Kyler:
Thats tough - your a middle tier team, with a ton of middle tier guys... I think a bold trade will help, but unless someone is doing you favors, your gonna have to take on contracts... and i think until JKidd decides what he's doing thats a hard one to handicap... They are calling Beaubois the French Leandros Barbosa - so I am optomistic he'll fit in.
Justin in Memphis, TN:
What's going to become of Houston now that it looks like Yao will be out of all of next season?
Steve Kyler:
Can you say Lottery team?... Lets face it the Rockets have some exciting young players and they could win some games, but the odds they beat San Antonio, Denver, The Lakers or Dallas in any series seems pretty slim... they could be a 30 win team unless T-Mac comes back and can really play - but who sees that as possible or probable?
Mike in NC:
Bill Ingram said the Jazz are interested in Turk for a sign n trade,Do you think the Magic could get Milsap or Boozer for Turk?
Steve Kyler:
Nope... they won't spend the money... if the Magic sign and trade Turkoglu, it will be like last year's Keyon Dooling deal - some team sitting on a trade exception and a minor asset the Magic want gets the deal... Kyle Korver opting in, likely reduces Utah's interest especially if Boozer sticks around.
Will in Orlando:
Rumors are Orlando is the frontrunner for landing Rasheed Wallace,Do you think he will be in a Magic uniform next year?
Steve Kyler:
No... I think Cleveland or San Antonio gets him... keep in mind the best deal for Rasheed comes through Detroit in a sign and trade, unless detroit wants JJ Redick I just don't see it... also everyone is overlooking the biggest issue - Dwight Howard was pissed at the Magic trade - anyone heard from the Big Fella since the deal went down? - nope, he told some people he needed a few days to cool off before he said something he'd regret - Dwight was unhappy with the amount of touches he got in the playoffs, so now adding Vince Carter and Rasheed Wallace are gonna make him happy?
I'll be stunned if the Magic land Rasheed and if they do expect to hear Dwight Howard wants out of Orlando right after it.
allen iverson, antonio mcdyess, rasheed wallace in not sure yet:
will we end up in charlotte...if not all, which of us could go to charlotte
Steve Kyler:
Not likely... Iverson could be the one... but Dyess and Sheed have a lot of suitors.
donnie walsh in newyork:
we just drafted david lee and nate robinson but with better defence haha
Steve Kyler:
Maybe, but I'd argue you took a step back in two critical areas... experience and talent... neither guy is as talented a player as the guy they are replacing.
Kyle in Hinckley, Ohio:
So is it pretty much a done deal that Charlie Villanueva will join the Cavs? Who else could the Cavs be targeting?
Steve Kyler:
Nothing is done until July 8th... but Charlie wants to be there... if Cleveland can't get Rasheed Wallace, I'd expect him to be the 2nd option.
Matthew in Jackson, WY:
Stat for Rubio and Love. The Suns can
rebuild, and clear cap salary. The Wolves
earn a veteran who'll feet really great
near Big Al!!
Steve Kyler:
Big problem... no cap room to absorb the differences in salary and the salaries are way off base... doesn't solve Minnesota's issues - Amar'e does not stay in Minnesota long term.
Alex in Orlando, FL:
Reports out of Magic camp and what you're saying are very contradictory. If the Magic are aiming for a title, why would they fill their roster with summer league players and lower level FA's all while losing key pieces to the Finals teams.
Steve Kyler:
Lets circle back in two weeks and see where we are... the Magic have their starting five on the roster... they will add some players, but they are not going to add 2 more top shelf players... its just not going to happen.
charlie in im headed to cleveland right:
theres no way i dont land there right? who else is my future team looking to add?
Steve Kyler:
Thats where you want to be... not sold your the Cavs first option.
Bizzy in T.O:
wat u think of Raptrs goin after C.Villanueva??
Steve Kyler:
I think if Shawn Marion walks away it's plausible, but I am not sure either party wants each other.
Jim in St. Croix:
Please tell me the Blazers are going to make a deal soon.
Steve Kyler:
They can start talking to players tonight and I understand they will... they can not actually trigger a deal until July 8th.
Scott in Memphis, Tn:
will the grizzlies spend any $$$ on a PF? if so, who do they have a realistic chance to get?
Steve Kyler:
I have seen reports of interest in David Lee... until they actually do it, I am not sold they will.
Brandon in Huntington, WV:
Are there any ways the pistons can become contenders again through free agency?
Steve Kyler:
Its possible, but I think free agency will help - not sold Michael Curry can coach them to contention... I think you get two or three good free agents, make a trade or two with Richard Hamilton and maybe Tayshaun Prince and see where you are next year... I see another draft pick in their future before another ring.
George in LA, CA:
Hey Bill, You think the Raptors would trade Bosh for Bynum, Farmar, Sasha and 1st round pick + cash?
Steve Kyler:
Bill?... are you serious... it's bad enough you ask if a team would trade an All-Star for cast offs, but it's not like my name is not written in the title... geez.
Bullets fan in DC:
Now that the Wiz have 20 guards, who gets traded so the team has more than 4 big men?
Steve Kyler:
The Wizards now have injury insurance at every spot... I don;t see them trading anyone, I think they have a lot of quality guys and they are one of my favorites to make noise in the post-season... they have to stay healthy, but if Gilbert goes down, I think they can still play.
Danny in Boston:
Does sheed end up in boston?
Steve Kyler:
Unlikely... just don't see how they can match Big Baby and add Sheed, he's not gonna take that kind of pay cut.
Paul in Akron, Ohio:
We all know about Charlie and Sheed, who else could the Cavs get?
Steve Kyler:
I think they need to add some depth, especially at the two guard - I'd go after Anthony Parker or Ema Udoka - both could come cheap.
Erick in Memphis, TN:
Will the Grizzlies get another Power Forward? If so who do you see us getting? And what about a backup point guard?
Steve Kyler:
I am not sold they are going to be overly active... they have the money, but this is a young team and when you look at their draft - I think they are fairly set.
KK in Orlando:
What kind of money is David Lee looking for? He'd be a great fit in Orlando.
Steve Kyler:
He is way out of their price range, and I agree completely - he is exactly what Orlando needs, but he's looking for a $50-$60 million payday, there is no way Orlando takes on that kind of money.
paul in ohio:
do you think (boozer probably won't option out) that detroit will go after charlie v.? as a cavs fan i hope not because they can offer a lot more money...
Steve Kyler:
I am not sure Charlie is a Joe Dumars kind of player... he likes Pitbulls... thats not Charlie.
Dave in Hoboken, NJ:
Any rumors regarding the Knicks? What's their next likely move?
Steve Kyler:
Donnie Walsh has been pepper the media with "never take my eye off of 2010" kinds of things... I know they will meet with Jason Kidd this week and they have their eye on bargains, but don't expect them to be too silly with their money... I think David Lee gets an offer and a deal out of town, same with Lil Nate.
Ray in Charlotte:
which on of these forwards is most likely to be traded for
expiring contracts? andres nocioni, james posey, travis outlaw,
matt harpring, or ryan gomes?
Steve Kyler:
None of the above... all of them are key guys to the coaches in those markets... if they are traded it won't be for ending contracts it would be to improve the talent on the teams... of those I'd bet Travis Outlaw is most likely moved, although Portland denies any interest.
travis in :
with all the free agent hubub i don't want 2 new spendy vets on the blazers, if we got miller/kidd then we'd be fine with webster and batum. same if we got turk then we'd be fine with blake and bayless, do you really think might sign 2 of these guys?
Steve Kyler:
I have been told Portland plans to make a "splash" this offseason, so to me that means more than one free agent.
George in LA, CA:
Who was the biggest surpise player that did not get drafted? - I'd say "Christmas" or "Pargo"...your thoughts.
Steve Kyler:
These are the guys I expected to get drafted in the 2nd round and did not:
Josh Heytvelt
Alade Aminu
Paul Harris
Dionte Christmas
Jerel McNeal
Tony Gaffney
Slava Kravtsov
Jeff Adrien
Jeremy Pargo
Reza in Woodland Hills:
Wouldnt Ron Artest be a perfect fit for denver? I think he would put them in the championship game
Steve Kyler:
maybe... but where does he play?... Denver is packed and for what Ron-Ron would cost, I'd rather have Dhantay Jones
Danny Ferry in :
Who do I need to sign tonight to keep LBJ in Cleveland?
Steve Kyler:
Danny... you can't sign anyone tonight, you can only talk to them... deals can't be signed for another week... who should you come away with an agreement from - Rasheed Wallace would be a good start, but what you do this week won't effect LeBron, its whether he has a ring next summer - thats what you have to get to.
Matt in :
Steve, why do you keep spreading these rumors that Dwight was unhappy with the trade and no one has heard from him since the trade? Read his blog: "I was so happy that we got VC on board here." You are making too much out of this.
Steve Kyler:
Lets put it this way... it's not a huge secret who I am close to... did you think Dwight would post anything negative on his site, when he's telling reporters to give him a few days to cool off?... Don't take my word for it, go ask John Denton and Brian Schimitz if Dwight was pleased at this deal... will he come around to it, sure he will he has no choice, but it does not mean he liked the deal or what that means to his role on the team, especially offensively.
VC in Dallas, Texas:
Are the 76'ers really trying to trade Elton Brand?
Steve Kyler:
Not according to Ed Stefanski... but this is how these things work... Assistant GMs and Player Personnel Directors chat constantly, they exchange ideas and sometimes tentative proposals, once something gets to the point where it might work - the GMs are brought in to take it to the next level... so has someone with the 76ers talked about Elton, I am sure they have, they;d be foolish not too... Ed says they are not entertaining offers, we'll see if he joins the list of can't be trusted.
Jon in Florida:
Ford just said in his chat to hold on because there's "breaking news to report", what is he talking about? Lol, inside scoop pleasseee?
Steve Kyler:
Pistons fired Michael Curry... told you I wasn't sold they had the coach.
Blu in Maryland:
Any chance that the wizards are able to find a suitable back-up post player in free agency? What about McDyess? Or any way Millsap could be lured away from the Jazz with a trade?
Steve Kyler:
Milsapp can't be lured away, the Jazz can match anything offered and likely will .... MyDyess might consider it, he liked Flip Saunders.
VIRGIL in ATL GA:
so now that J crawford is a Hawk is it safe to say Bibs is out. Also what do they do with Marvin. Is there a market for him
Steve Kyler:
I don't buy that - Crawford is a two-guard, if anything I'd wonder when Joe Johnson gets traded?... I think Bibby weighs his offers, but money talks.
Jeff in Boise, ID:
Chad Ford is saying Curry is done in Detroit. Who do you think will replace him?
Steve Kyler:
"This was a difficult decision to make," Pistons president Joe Dumars said in a statement. "I want to thank Michael for his hard work and dedication to the organization. However, at this time, I have decided to make a change."
- Avery Johnson... there is call holding for you on Line 6...
Ryan Anderson in Orlando, FL:
How come nobody is talking about what a great fit I am with the Magic? I can hit the three and now Stan won't have to change the offense when Rashard sits.
Steve Kyler:
I love the addition of Ryan Anderson, in fact I think he's a better fit than Vince Carter...
joel in richmond va:
is da mavs gon make a splash in free agency?
Steve Kyler:
Unlikely... they may get something in return for jason Kidd, but I doubt they make any big moves, they have no cap room, so its about what garbage will they take on.
BD in Little Elm, Texas:
Are the Mavs trying to trade for Chris Kaman?
Steve Kyler:
had not heard that, but it would be a big upgrade.
VIRGIL in ATL GA:
Could the knicks trade for sergio, k thomas and others for N8 and jefferies
Steve Kyler:
They could, not sure what New York would make that deal and I know Sacramento won't pay Lil Nate, they'd be better thats for sure, substitute Sergio for Beno Udrih and you have a deal.
Corey in denver, CO:
Please tell me the HEAT will make any moves to improve this
year.
Steve Kyler:
They are talking, but they too are looking at 2010 as the year to make meaningful moves... I doubt they go long term on anyone this summer.
Sandeep in Augsburg,Germany:
i would like to know where steve francis is?? he told the media after the release of memphis that he still can play and is looking for a new nba team. do you know more about him right now??
Steve Kyler:
Steve Francis has been working out at IMG in Brandenton with Coach Mike Moreau, David Thorpe and Anthony Macri - lets put it this way, no offense to whomever Steve has trained with before, but it's clear he's never been in a program like this... he's been a model student, but when athletic talent fades, what else is left?
Steve just does not have the skills to be a great player anymore, he's got to learn the craft of the game, and I am not sure any team takes him on... I talk with him every time I am down, will be there tomorrow - but honestly, he has worked harder than I expected he would, he has stuck to the program longer than I expected he would and I beleive he deserves a chance - just not sure he'll get one.
Todd in Las Vegas,Nevada:
Do you still think golden state has enough pieces to pull a Amare deal without sending Curry?
Steve Kyler:
I think they could make a deal, just not sold they want to make a deal...
Rick in Melbourne Beach, FL:
Hey Steve, Enjoy the chats. Who is the best fit for the Magic, Brandon Bass, Antonio McDyess, Rasheed Wallace, or someone else? Who do you think the Magic are the most interested in?
Steve Kyler:
Bass and McDyess fit the culture... I think they will be opportunistic on the rest, see who falls their way
Jake in Portland:
Hey Steve, What are the Blazers going to do with Jerryd Bayless? He's just rottening on the bench! For a guy with so much talent, he should be STARTING at PG!
Steve Kyler:
I think a lot of it has to do with free agency... you get an Andre Miller, you may have to give Jerryd up in a sign and trade... but he's the best insurance option they have and he's under contract... he'll get more minutes next year regardless.
Guys, that is it out of time... have a good week... next week's chat will come from Summer League in Orlando, so stay tuned.
