NBA Chat With Eric Pincus 9/11/12

Rico

What can you tell us about the Lakers camp invite Reeves Nelson other than he put up solid numbers at UCLA before being dismissed. What are his odds of making the roster? It looks like he can rebound but can he score from the perimeter? Knock down the 3pt shot? Defense? Thanks.

Eric Pincus

Training camps inch closer – teams are filling up with invites – let’s chat:

Rico – Nelson actually has some talent. He’s a tough player who is going to get some hustle points – and may develop as a complementary player on a good team. He had some “issues” at UCLA which opens up some maturity questions but so far the Lakers’ experience with him (summer league, etc.) has been positive. The tricky part is making the team. He’d have to have an exceptional training camp and that’s a stretch. He’ll likely end up on the D-Fenders in the D-League unless he finds a job overseas.

Azzar Nadvi

Hi eric! so i keep reading people saying kobes first 3 championships are unimpressive because he was “second fiddle” to a dominant shaq. i think that is unfair to kobe. although i agree shaq was the big dawg posting up rediculous number of points and rebounds, kobe did his share averaging 22,29,and 27 ppg 5,6 and 5 APG and 5,7, and 6 RPG during the playoffs of their 3 peat. Would you agree that shaq also needed kobe to 3 peat? would you also agree that to say kobes first 3 championship were unimpressive because he was “piggybacking” of of shaq is a disrespect to kobe? thanks

Eric Pincus

If watched closely, Shaq and the Lakers weren’t winning without Kobe. Kobe wasn’t winning without Shaq. Neither was winning without Phil.

julien wood

Will blazers with addition of lilliard make a run in the playoff and how many years will it be realistically til we are championship contenders.

Eric Pincus

I like Lillard, a lot, but no – I don’t see the Blazers as a playoff team this year. It’s too early to guess when the Blazers will be back in contention. They have a lot to accomplish still.

Azzar Nadvi

So yesterday I made the statement “if shaq had the work ethic of kobe or jordan, his dominance and effectiveness could have not neccessarily been greater, but lasted longer than it did.”
This started a debate in the room. Some saying shaq didn’t need to cuz he was dominant.
My questions are: was shaq as hard working off the court as kobe was/is? Did shaq pay as much attention to staying physically fit like kobe did/does? And if shaq would have worked harder in terms of staying fit and healthy, do you think he would have had a better end tail career than he had and that his dominance would have had even a little bit longer longivity? Thanks!

Eric Pincus

I would say Shaq could have had a better career had he put in more work. I’d agree with that statement but as it is he had a tremendous career. People are who they are – and he accomplished amazing things in his time.

Adam

Pacers fan here. Love the chats and the site. Can’t wait til the season starts. Love our team this year and I see us as #2 seed in the East. Agree/disagree? Pretty deep at every position. Think the 3 guys we just signed make the final roster? Really like the Sam Young signing, good defensive 3. We need a bounce back year from Psycho T.

Eric Pincus

I sent in my NBA rankings to our fine editors here at HOOPSWORLD and I do have the Pacers as the second best team in the East. I want to see Roy Hibbert to keep improving – as some players peak right before free agency. Hibbert has a chance to make the Pacers a special team and management has done a good job putting pieces around him. Hansbrough too could help – although I still think Indiana is strong without a major contribution from T.

Silassie

Hi Eric.

What do you think the starting line up for the clippers will be?

I am presuming the same as last year but with Crawford/Billups at SG.

Do you think L.Odum was a good addition and what position do you think he will play at most often?

Eric Pincus

If Billups isn’t ready for opening night, perhaps Crawford slips into the opening night lineup. Otherwise I expect the same starting group from last year (initially) with Paul, Billups, Butler, Griffin and Jordan.

The Clippers really need a big year out of Lamar. He’ll play four and five mostly – perhaps some three but I anticipate he’ll finish games alongside Griffin. Whether it’s Odom at five or Griffin would probably be determined by defensive matchup.

Odom has a lot to prove but if he can return to form, he’s a good get.

Zeeshan

Say the Bulls do decied to amnesty Boozer, which will be likely if he doesnt have a good year. Do you think the Bulls would go after Josh Smith then? I think yes because Smith will get the money, playing time, and a shot at a championship. Agree or disagree? Thanks! (:

Eric Pincus

I’m not sure what the plan is for the Bulls. I get so many “Boozer amnesty” questions when it’s really premature. If the Bulls keep Taj Gibson there’s no cap room anyway for Smith, even with Boozer amnesty.

Kevin Love

Am i really going to Chicago if we dont make the playoffs?

Eric Pincus

Maybe on vacation?

Jim in Cyber Space

Sam Presti made a choice when he re-signed Ibaka… for an average of 12.5 Mil, don’t you think? I don’t see how Harden get’s a Max deal in OKC now? Which is probably his open market value?
Probably a wise decision. Presti can trade Harden and get another high draft choice and find a reserve 2 that fits his business profile?
It would be way more difficult to replace Ibaka. Super Athletic, long young, has a great stroke on the 17 ft JS. He has quick hops, block almost anything out of the gym.

With Dwight in the WC now. Perkins and Ibaka in the paint makes sense? With all the other pieces, let Harden go, you might be able to afford to re-sign Maynor?

It’s a small market.

Eric Pincus

The Thunder are trying to figure out exactly what to do with Harden and the fact that they’re a small market competing against teams with bigger budgets. The answer is not clear yet – there are arguments on both sides on how to proceed.

Jatt

Do you think it would’ve been better if the Lakers had traded Pau to Boston for Rondo. I know the Lakers wanted to keep the big 2 7 footers but personally i believe they should’ve done it because they needed a point guard and Rondo is the best in the league and besides Pau wasn’t even playing that good at that time. Hopefully he’ll do good this year

Eric Pincus

I don’t think you can argue it’s better to have Rondo right now – given the Lakers have Howard/Nash and can still cash out Pau.

vw rocks

Now that the cavs paid gee, who will be next? Pietrus, martin, arenas or barbosa? Would we see a trade on teams like the jazz and hawks? They got alot of redundant players? Thanks

Eric Pincus

We might see a last minute trade or two near training camps. In many cases teams want to see what they have before dealing – waiting some good 20 games before getting back on the trade market. Then there are a few teams the clearly didn’t accomplish all their goals (Rockets, etc.) and as noted – a few outstanding issues like James Harden. I’m sure those veterans will land on teams – but I could also see them waiting a bit for opportunities that come up after the season starts (injuries can open a spot).

Charlie

Some people seem to believe referring to Kobe Bryant as a second fiddle during his first three championships is a slight, citing his stats and contribution to the Lakers titles. However, this line of reasoning may be missing the overall point. No one could possibly argue Kobe didn’t contribute. Rather highlights the fact Bryant wasn’t the MAIN reason for this success. But when speaking of Jordan, no one could ever argue Pippen, Rodman or Horace Grant ever contributed MORE than Micheal (but were still vital contributors). When you are judging best players of all time, is overall championships the number #1 factor. Or how much influence they had in winning those titles? (Ex. Robin who wins 5 chips more important than a Batman who wins 3)

Eric Pincus

I have problem with the word “fact” Charlie. It’s not a “fact,” but a subjective opinion. Maybe it’s right. Maybe it’s wrong. It’s not fact.

Deven

Eric, why did Grant Hill choose the Clippers over the Lakers, and maybe Miami? His best shot at title could have been with LAL and the HEAT.

Eric Pincus

He followed his heart – this was where he wanted to go. There’s no gotcha reason – this is where he felt most comfortable.

Gerardo Ramírez

Eric, two questions: 1)do you thing the Pacers could top last season and reach te ECF? and 2) if they decides to trade Granger, who do we have to get in exchange to make te difference this season?

Eric Pincus

I see two different paths – trying to get to the ECF – and trading Granger. I don’t see those going together. I wouldn’t be shocked if at some point Danny is moved but I’m not sure the time is now. It’s difficult to get at true read on what the Knicks, Nets and Sixers will be there year but the Pacers have a real shot to be there with a healthy, productive season.

T.J. Wilson

Do you think Omir Asik and Jeremy Lin will make a great tandem for the Rockets? I know its going to take alot of time and patience but can they take that team to new heights in the future?

Eric Pincus

Define “great.” I see the Rockets as a lottery team. I like the acquisitions but Houston needs to keep reworking the roster to get the right combination of players and I don’t think they’re there yet.

DC

What’s up with Darius Johnson-Odom signing? It’s going to be tough
roster decisions. Does Reeves Nelson, in your opinion, have a shot at making the final roster?
Keep up the great work!

Eric Pincus

I would expect Johnson-Odom to get a contract before camp and if he can prove to the staff that he has potential as a defender at the NBA level, there may be a spot for him. The Lakers don’t have a young athlete in the backcourt and DJO is that. We’ll see what comes, I wouldn’t be shocked if he ends up on the team but we’re a ways away from that.

Thx DC.

Angry Tibetan

1)Do you see the hallway series between Lakers and Clippers getting more physical?

2) Who will dunk on who; D12 on Blake or Blake on D12?

3)Does AEG decide on who statues goes up? Why no Clipper yet?

Eric Pincus

I would like to see a playoff series in Los Angeles – preferably WCF (for selfish reasons as a covering journalist who doesn’t travel often outside of LA).

#2 = both.

#3 = I’m not quite sure who decides but it would probably take initiative on the Clippers’ part to get a statue going.

Rice w/ soy sauce

What up E! Enjoy your chat and very grateful that you respond to fans tweets. Which Lakers will have a breakout year?
My guess is Pau. Don’t have to worry too much on defense and if Nash made Gortat look good I can only imagine what he can do to Pau

Eric Pincus

I’m still not sure where Pau fits in here. He didn’t necessarily blend with Bynum in the paint – does the tandem work better with Howard? Does Gasol end up being the primary inside option again or is that now Dwight? It’s really hard to say. The Lakers could use a breakout year from Meeks off the bench – outside shooting is going to be critical on this team.

asaf

Cavs SF position is loaded (Miles, Casspi, Gee, Walton) but their guard depth chart isn’t great (Irving,Gibson,waiters).Can the Lakers get an upgrade in either miles or Casspi for any of their current young guards (johnson-odom, Goudlocke,Morris)? or mabye Blake as A backup for Irving?)

Eric Pincus

I’m not sure how the Lakers have anything to do with what’s going on in Cleveland. I’m not sure how a $4 million, over-30 point guard with two years left helps solve things for the Cavs.

Dave

Eric, I realize that you cover the wrong coast, but how well do you know Brandon Bass’s game? During the ECF, I was impressed by his defense against Lebron (when he was put on LJ), and occasionally Bass shows a real power game. He’s still young and will be going through his first pre-season camp with the C’s, so how good do you think Bass can get?

Eric Pincus

Funny, the wrong coast. Bass can play. He’s not really a great defender from my view – he had some moments but I’m not sure over time he’s going to really bother James. I view him as a marginal starter – probably better suited as the power forward off the bench. If he continues to improve though – he’s certainly a viable starter and a very steady player.

Ray

Hey how long do you think until the bulls become true contenders again? Also does it make sense for them to throw this season to potentially be in the lottery?

Eric Pincus

They get Derrick Rose healthy and suddenly they’re back in contention. They still need a playmaking guard who can shoot with good size.

Pau of Makpit

Hey Mr. Eric! Are you a Laker fan? I got a feeling if the CP3 to the Lakers push thru, Lakers mgt. will still find a way to get DH12 nxt cause it seems like Dwight likes to play w/ a very good PG like CP3 who can distribute the ball evenly bet. him & Kobe. Agree? Maybe the league will be spare of the Dwightmare, so blame it on David Stern.LOL. What do you think of this new Laker team, the 2008 Boston team who figure it right away or the 2012 Miami who took a year before becoming a champion?

Eric Pincus

I gotta say, I’m not sure I follow everything that’s going on here. I will say the Lakers have an impressive roster that should among the few teams in true contention this year.

CAS

Eric,
Part 1: Am I wrong for not being concerned about Nash’s age & lack of defense? I mean who was the last Lakers starting PG to actually play D? Furthermore guard whom? Westbrook, CP3, Rose, DWill, Rondo…? No one can really guard these guys anyhow its not like they put up their season numbers on only playing against Nash. BTW where’s the talk about these guys defending Nash? In regards to age, Nash is a physical conditioned freak – a gym rat, personally age wont affect his IQ, FG% nor assists, it may hamper his PPG but its not like we’re expecting 18ppg from him furthermore Nash has never had players such as Kobe, DH12 and Gasol, I’m going out on limb and predicting 12ppg & 14apg.

Part 2: As the biggest Kobe fan, is it realistic to think at this stage in his career he is smarter than what the pundits put out being that he will allow Nash to run the offense and DH12 to be the 1st option. Kobe can lurk in the background ready to strike when needed! I would love to see Kobe shoot a lot less, average 22ppg, shoot at a higher FG% and refocus on playing defense.

Lets go Lakers!

Eric Pincus

I will say that pairing Howard with Nash is a better fit defensively than Bynum with Nash. We’ll see how Bryant adjusts to the situation. That’s a key question this season – how does it all blend together and naturally Kobe is a big part of that.

paul

Is it just me or is this Mavs team just as talented as the one that won the championship. They have a great mix of youth and veterans that know how to win. I think they might be a dark horse in the west. What is your opinion on this years Mavericks?

Eric Pincus

I see the Mavs as a team with talent but not necessarily one that will be at the top when all is said and done in the West. I would say dark horse is the right term – they shouldn’t be counted out by any stretch.

Rick Levitt

Hey Eric! Always enjoy your chats. As a long time and (miserable these days) Kings fan do you feel the Maloofs are postioning themselves for a sale of the team or relocation?

Eric Pincus

I feel like the Kings are all about the gridlock right now. They don’t seem to want to sell. The Maloofs would like to relocate but to a situation that works well for them. I hope it resolves well. I know Sacramento fans can be a lot of fun – that run back a handful of years ago was a blast.

Roger

Don’t know why but I always got to ask you a question. Which team and why would you give the nod. Team 1: PG Gary Payton, SG Joe Dumars, SF Ron Artest, PF Dennis Rodman, C Ben Wallace. Team 2: PG Allen Iverson, SG Kobe Bryant, SF Tracy McGrady, PF Dirk Nowitzki, C Shaquille O’neal. One team plays great defense, the other scores with ease. We have seen each players prime so who would come out on top?

Eric Pincus

The latter by far. It’s just a better fit. O’Neal and Bryant were at tremendous tandem defensively – Iverson is pesky. I would argue Nowitzki is an adequate team defender. McGrady is athletic and workable. The Payton/Dumars combination would be able to put up some points but there’s nothing whatsoever going on inside with Wallace/Rodman. Too easy to defend.

Lakers#1 Fan

Hey Eric. Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions. Do the Lakers retire Steve Nash’s jersey if he was to win a championship with the team? Does Pau Gasol get his jersey retired?

Eric Pincus

The Lakers don’t retire a player’s number unless they’re in the Hall of Fame. I would argue that Gasol is already a lock based on his international resume in addition to what he’s done in the NBA. Remember, it’s the basketball HOF, not the NBA HOF. Nash is a more difficult question – especially if it’s just one ring.

lakers#1 Fan

Eric, as of right now Time Warner is the only cable provider that will be showing the Laker games. Any word on any of the other providers (at&t, directv, dish) showing the games?

Eric Pincus

It’s still unclear.

Scott

And the GM of the Year is????

Eric Pincus

I’d say Kupchak.

T-Rob

How excited are you that Seattle just agreed on a financing plan for a new arena!? Can I get a “Super..”

Eric Pincus

Super!

Mr. Ballistik

You’re Mike Brown. How do you keep Dwight Howard out of foul trouble against teams with point guards that Nash can’t stay infront of (see three fourths of the league)?

Eric Pincus

I don’t really expect much of an issue there by and large.

Yong

As the Lakers roster is set, Ebanks probably will be the only back-up SF, and Ebanks has yet to prove he can play consistently throughout the season. If Ebanks struggles once the season starts, there is no one else to fulfill that position. Lakers are still considering Matt Barnes or even Mickael Pietrus to see if he could sign with VM?

Eric Pincus

The Lakers are well stocked at small forward. I expect Bryant to log regular minutes there next to Jodie Meeks at the two. Also Antawn Jamison – depending on matchups – can play three as well.

Scott

Any word on MWP staying in shape this offseason? He must know how important it is to come into training camp ready to roll this year.

Eric Pincus

I’ve heard Peace has been working extremely hard this summer and will be in great shape when camp starts – because he’s already in great shape right now a month out.

Scott

Dwight’s recovery? Go.

Eric Pincus

Nearing though still inconclusive on exact timeframe.

Leo

Hi Eric,

I’m very confident in our ability to beat the Heat and Thunder in the half-court…I am, however, worried about transition defense. The Heat and Thunder will run the ball every opportunity they can against us, whether from turnovers or just long rebounds. I’m curious how big of a problem you think this will be, and what they can/need to do to defend against it.

Eric Pincus

Transition defense is about dedication and running. I’m not terribly concerned about it for the Lakers. Some teams will be faster, that’s a given. It’s difficult to win games in transition night after night.

Mashkareem

Guess what? Mark Cuban didn’t get Dwight Howard this summer, but he’s about to get DJ Mbenga! I think the Mavs will go all the way…DJ was the missing piece. Great summer, Mark!

Eric Pincus

I’m very fond of Mbenga. He’s a tremendous guy. Always warm and friendly – I hope he finds a spot this season.

Mashkareem

Eric, of all the youngsters the Lakers will be bringing into the camp, which ones do you think will make the roster? I’m thinking the Lakers will keep at least one spot open in case they will need to sign someone in the middle of the season, won’t you agree?

Eric Pincus

I would argue Sacre and Johnson-Odom have shots – and that might translate to no Andrew Goudelock.

Mashkareem

I hear MWP is has been working out and not only physically is in great shape, but also he’s been working on his outside shots. Have you seen him or heard anything? I think the Lakers should keep him away from 3 point line and have work closer to the basket where he can be much more effective. What do you think?

Eric Pincus

If Peace isn’t at the three-point line then where is he? The Lakers need floor spacing for their post-players and that’s just basic basketball. The Lakers need shooters on the floor to punish teams for sagging with doubles in the post.

Kurt

I don’t think advertising on NBA jerseys would be a big distraction. They could give it a try during preseason. The Tour de France cyclists’ jerseys advertise the team’s sponsor and it doesn’t bother me. What I don’t like is the excessive amount of vibrant paint and huge team logos on the court. Is jersey advertising coming? Do you agree with me on the court paint?

Eric Pincus

It never really bothers me that sort of thing. It’s a matter of personal preference. I know it’s a business and frankly when the game is happening – I’m seeing the game more than the floor and the ads, etc.

Mashkareem

What do you think about Lakers assistant coaches? That’s pretty impressinve bunch. What do you think promped the Lakers to spend so much on assistant coaches? I know one or two of them left on their own, but I don’t think Bickerstaff is that cheap a hire for asistant position.

Eric Pincus

I’m not sure what they’re each getting paid but last year’s staff was not cohesive – at all. The Bickerstaff/Jordan gets are impressive. They’re both very tough – you don’t mess with either. Naturally the team wants the best staff to help the team win. We’ll see if Mike Brown is the right guy for the job. He’ll certainly be the focus of criticism if things don’t work well on the floor.

Mashkareem

Out of curiousity, who’s the best free agent left in the market this summer?

Eric Pincus

Naturally that’s subjective. You can argue Derek Fisher, Leandro Barbosa, Josh Howard, Mickael Pietrus, Michael Redd, Tracy McGrady, Kenyon Martin, Ivan Johnson, Darko Milicic, Josh Harrelson, etc. Check out the list here http://www.hoopsworld.com/2012-nba-free-agents/ – I still need to update for the recent signings over the past week.

Leo

Was that beastly Pau Gasol that we saw in the Olympics just someone who was very passionate about playing for his country, or is that something that we can “somewhat” come to expect this season (and especially in the post-season)?

Eric Pincus

Gasol’s role last year was not the same role he has on the Spanish team. It will be interesting to see if the Lakers can put him in a better place to score this coming season – so that Gasol can contribute to the best of his ability. He seemed slightly like a fish out of water last year.

Mashkareem

It’s so amazing that for almost three years more than 50% of discussions and comments from Lakers fans were about how terrible Jim Boss was. But now all of the sudden since the acquisition of Dwight Howard and Nash, it’s complete silence on the subject. Nobody gave the guy a chance to do something…like a little child who wants a candy and is not willing to wait until after dinner…he wants it now, right now!

Eric Pincus

I find that fans need someone to blame things on and given the lack of track record, Jim Buss was it. Now it looks like they may have to go elsewhere for their negativity. With Luke Walton out – it’s going to be a struggle.

Brad

Now that the Clipper’s have promoted Gary Sacks have you heard any rumblings on who else if anybody they may bring into the front office?

Eric Pincus

I don’t anticipate anyone of name brought into the front office. The Clippers likely continue to develop their basketball operations with internal promotions, etc.

Mashkareem

Eric, I know people always ask you about trading Gasol, and I know the Lakers have no intention of trading him just yet. But let me ask you this that since ther return for Gasol is so marginal because of his age and contract, why not just keep him for the next two years and then let him walk. Use him as much as you can. He’s much better than anything we can get for him and his contract will come off in two years. Don’t you agree?

Eric Pincus

That’s quite an assumption on what Gasol would return. I don’t really agree. If the Lakers were truly looking to move him they’d get a decent package back. It just depends on how this team works – and what the Lakers intend to do before next year’s tax nightmare.

Beto R.

A friend of mine (lakers fan) thinks that cp3 is not worth a max contract, and that he is not a clutch player, I disagree on both of his positions. Can u please give your opinion on the matter. We’ve been debating since the end of the season.

Eric Pincus

Disagree is all with your friend. I’m not sure what his point is – Paul was very clutch for the Clippers this past season. Where he stumbled was at the very end when an injury took away his speed.

SatBchMagicer

In past several decades, Lakers only retired a players #/jersey after he had been actually inducted into HOF, as in ceremony scheduled just past summer for
Wilkes, why then are they breaking that precedent for Shaq who not yet eligible for HOF for a few years? Also, when was the decision made public, what date?

Eric Pincus

I would say the Shaq to the Hall is inevitable so they’re jumping the gun a bit.

Angel

Do you think Dwight will be ready for the season opener?

Eric Pincus

I’m going to say no if forced to say. But I would not be surprised if I’m wrong. If you say yes/no – give the gut answer – there it is. But it’s not one I can say I know – because I don’t think anyone really knows just yet. It’s still being felt out.

Rudy

Eric, what kind of numbers do you see the big 4 putting up next season? You would think Kobe,Howard and Gasol’s numbers would go down, due to less touches, but at the same time that have never played with a point guard even half as good as Steve Nash. So, I think they will still get their touches and even more quality touches, leading to a increase in their FG and 3PT FG%…I wouldn’t be surprised if Kobe and Pau shoot a career high in these two categories and if Howard shoots a career high in FG%. What do you think?

Eric Pincus

If you’re the Lakers – you probably don’t care about who scores specifically – just that they shoot a high percentage. I anticipate this will be a good year for the Lakers but as I mentioned – I’m curious to see how Gasol fits next to Howard. It may be better for all involved than Gasol/Bynum.

Jaleel Thompson

Cam u give top 10 players you would draft when healthy to start a team. Just to be cleaer 10 teams starting from nothing everybody is healthy and advailable

Eric Pincus

If we’re talking current, healthy active players and I need to pick out two at at each specific position? And I’m focusing on winning now – and not down the road?

Not in order: LeBron James, Dwight Howard, Blake Griffin, Derrick Rose, Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Love, Kevin Durant and Russel Westbrook

This was rushed – I probably left someone out – and I cheated a bit with positions.

Oscar

Do u think if Chris Paul signs the big contract with the clippers.. Would see them trading Bledsoe for draft picks and players or do u see bledsoe in there plans for the future?

Eric Pincus

I anticipate that Paul will re-sign and Bledsoe will still be with the Clippers.

Rudy

What kind of shot do you think the Clippers have of winning the championship? I think CP has to have a monster MVP season (like 22-25ppg, 10-12apg and 2.5-3spg) and Blake needs to turn into at lease a poor mans Karl Malone in regards to his shooting (20-22ppg, 10-12rpg, 55%fgs, 72%fts and maybe even attempt 0.5 threes per game to keep the defense honest).

Eric Pincus

I don’t see the Clippers winning it all but they should be in the discussion. They have a lot right in the roster but still a lot to prove. Agreed that Griffin needs to follow Malone’s career path. Karl initially was a power player with no range and no free throws – who gradually became a deadline shooter at his position – while always playing a muscle game.

Aevi

Hello Eric. Reports have come out that Dwight will be studying under Kareem. Because they’re such different style players, and because Dwight has already been in the league for awhile now, playing his style and formed habits and such, in what way do you think Kareem can make Dwight more effective?

Eric Pincus

I’m not sold Kareem is the ideal mentor in general – I don’t feel things really translate from the best players as teachers. You can argue that Bynum learned more from Rambis than Kareem – and that Howard may get more out of working with Darvin Ham.

Ken

Eric best chats around… Do you feel the lakers have any wholes that they need to fill offensively can think of a couple just wanted your take on it?? Thnks…

Eric Pincus

Thanks Ken – I see the Lakers as sound as they’re built. I still think they need an athlete in the backcourt – which could be Darius Johnson-Odom. I see Bryant playing up at forward to open up room in the backcourt given the team’s glut of players.

Bryan

Hey Eric,
I heard that Dwight said he’d like to play with a point guard like Chris Paul or D Williams, I know Nash is a top 5, but viewing a long term plan, do you see the Lakers trying to make a move to try and land Paul next off season to try and ensure Dwight stays. I think he stays not based on who the point guard is, rather, how he enjoys playing with this team.

Eric Pincus

I don’t see any path to Paul for the Lakers.

kyle

How has the new CBA worked out so far? Players and owners happy?
I like the new CBA, any indications of an opt out from either side in 5 years? Hope they avoid a lockout…

Eric Pincus

It’s a work in progress. There are good things and bad. It’s too early to guess opt out/in. Naturally no one wants a lockout.

SatBchMagicer

Eric, read very recently that Dwight is- “working on his free throws”- any idea who he ‘working with’, what the work actually entails?

Eric Pincus

I imagine repetition, repeat and then do it again. With who? Not sure.

Michael

If Lakers use the stretch provision on Steve Nash’s 3rd and final year how much is the cap hit in 14-15 on Nash?

Eric Pincus

I’m going to say, without running it by Larry Coon to make sure I have it absolutely $100%, Nash’s final year of $9.7 mil would be spread out over three seasons. The cap hit would be $3.2 million but since there’s a cap hold for any open roster spots under 13, the Lakers would have about $3.7 million of their cap space eaten up. If Howard has signed an extension and the Lakers have no one else under contract, we’re talking about $31 million on the books – with a cap probably at about $62 million give or take? So $31 million to spend which is a lot but not as much as you might think if you’re looking at two max slots for long-term veteran stars.

Nate

Whats up Eric? How do you think the Nets are gonna do this year? Record? Playoff seeding? Division?

Eric Pincus

The Nets have a real shot to be a force. I’m not ready to say they’re elite but that potential is there.

bob

Where do you have the nuggets finishing in the West. Do any of the nuggets make the all star game? Kenneth Faried to the dunk contest?

Eric Pincus

I see the Nuggets in the 3-6 range in the West. The goal, in my mind, would be the four seed so they have home court against teams like the Grizzlies or Clippers. I’m not sure they can accomplish that but if they do, they should have a shot at the second round. I’m not saying I’d pick them in a series – but that’s a path. Faried is a blast to watch – not sure about dunk contest. I don’t see Denver with any All-Stars this year but I don’t necessarily think that’s significant.

Dbone

Do you think players and coaches have to be TOO accessible to the media? You’re bound to say some that makes you look bad when youre doing interviews every day.

Eric Pincus

I don’t really follow you. I’m not so concerned with the “looking bad” aspect of it. I’m just trying, as a journalist, to get a better understanding of the game and how the team is progressing than playing “gotcha” games. I think the fans crave accessibility and information – which is gotten by media folks like myself. I’d make things more open if it were up to me – but alas, it’s not.

Dbone

What big free agent is now at the top of the lakers agenda? JK

I know you try to be unbiased about your reporting, but is there any player or person you just can’t help but be excited to meet for personal reasons

Eric Pincus

The Lakers are looking at the 2014/2015 classes of free agent for the next star to pair with Howard – assuming things go according to their plan. As far as reporting – who have I been really excited to meet? Hmm – that’s a good question. Probably Jerry West.

vw rocks

With what u said , a trade for kev martinvplus rockets young assets for james harden make sense. With me?

Eric Pincus

Actually not Martin as the key name, but I wonder if Jeremy Lamb is someone the Thunder view as a possible cheaper Harden replacement – should they decide an extension is too much to spend. If that’s Martin + Lamb, perhaps.

Adam

Do you see Sam Young making the Pacers final roster? Could be real value in the playoffs guarding potentially Melo, LeBron, Pierce, J Johnson. Also are you surprised DJ White hasn’t got at least a camp invite from his hometown Pacers?

Eric Pincus

This will have to do for the week – I went a little longer than usual which must mean we’re nearing the season!

Young is a solid player. He can still help a team and it’s possible given the Pacers have only 12 guaranteed contracts. Not sure what’s up with DJ White.