NBA Chat with Eric Pincus 9/6/11

Efren23

Do you think the nets if deron Williams decide not to sign with or just if they think he won’t sign with them would sign and trade him to the clippers Minnesota pick ? What do you think and do you think this is a possibility because I like derin better than Paul because chris paul can’t guard Westbrook and rose but deron has better chance not only that but Eric gordon good defender so is deandre and I’m sure Blake will come along!!!!

Eric Pincus

Possible but that’s too far off and way too dependent on the decision-making of Williams. He may say New Jersey is great – he may push to move elsewhere. We need the new CBA rules. It’s just a situation the Clippers have to monitor among many.

Mardy from BKLYN

If the league gets their way – and the formation of more superstar trios becomes impossible – it will NOT create parity – it will mean that the Heat will win most, if not all, championships from the time they get it together onward. The ONLY way to have parity in the league now will be to allow more trios to form. The precedent has been set, there’s no way to go back.

Eric Pincus

Who says the league doesn’t want power trios? The HEAT made for great ratings, attendance and interest. I’m not with you on that. I believe the NBA in general wants that as well. Some parties may not but that to me is the minority.

Xavier

Greetings from Singapore! Do you really think Andrew Bynum can be the new franchise player for the Lakers? If you look at their history it seems they get one every decade but Bynum doesn’t seem to cut it

Eric Pincus

I’ve seen Andrew play elite stretches of basketball. If he can mange the knee and keep growing, it’s possible. Regardless a franchise big is going to need a franchise guard to balance the game.

jcarloyu

3 should have at least 3 season mvp trophies.kobe was robbed few years back.

Eric Pincus

I don’t fully understand your question but Kobe has said his concern is not regular-season MVP but NBA Finals MVP.

jcarloyu

what rank do you think kobe will end his career in scoring if these season will be cancelled or shortened? and what rank do you think he will end if these season push thru?

Eric Pincus

If he stays healthy and goes another handful of years, the sky is the limit.

Mark

I wish the Lakers would hire SHAQ to teach Bynum and Co. how to 1) seal his man and 2) set up and get better position closer to the hoop. Many times I would see Bynum and Gasol sometimes set up way away from the hoop.

Eric Pincus

Yeah, don’t see that on any level.

art

Hey Erik, would a Green Bay Packers model of fan-owned franchises work for the NBA? If so, how would it affect future CBAs?

Eric Pincus

Actually “Eric” but I don’t see a fan-owned franchise happening in the NBA any time soon.

Henry

the clips are in an interesting spot. the media has opined on 2 scenarios: (1) trade kaman for a SF, leaving jordan as the center and still missing a strong PG, (2) trade EJ (and others) for CP3, leaving a hole at both SF and SG. both scenarios “hope” for a strong draft at SF. i don’t know if either scenario gets them into title contention.

Eric Pincus

#2 isn’t happening. The Clippers aren’t trading Gordon. They know they can’t win with a big two – they need the third piece in the core. They may trade Kaman for a small forward. They may try to trade their Minnesota pick for a star like Paul (but not Gordon). They may just wait to use the Minnesota pick for themselves to land a stud, young three.

Cesar

hi eric, metta just said that he´s hearing positive things and he´s excited cuz we might have a complete season or lose very little time. i know it´s coming from ron-ron, so im not making a big deal out of it. what do u think?

Eric Pincus

I do think the NBA likes to manage expectations and then over-deliver. It wouldn’t surprise me if they paint the doomsday picture and then come in as heroes by saving the season. Then again speaking to sponsors, agents and people affiliated with the NBA – just about everyone is expecting a partial season at a minimum. I’m hopeful but skeptical we start on time.

Jhayee

if the nets land david west now,do they have the cap space to go after howard next year??

brook lopez,Dan Gadzuric,Travis Outlaw for josh smith,Marvin Williams??
tnx..

Eric Pincus

We’re reliant on the new rules but the Nets invest say $11 million a year into David West, they’d have some cap room this summer and some the next . . . but it’s dependent on Deron Williams opting out. They might be able to get West and Howard but at the cost of their point guard.

It’s a tough question but remember, there are ways to gain more cap space including trading guys like Anthony Morrow, Jordan Farmar, Travis Outlaw and Damion James and John Petro.

I don’t want to say outright it’s not possible because that’s not entirely true. I don’t see the Nets going for West and Howard and Brook Lopez – they’d need two of those three to go with a high-level guard (preferably Williams).

bob

do u think malone is a better pf than dirk despite not having a ring?

Eric Pincus

Malone gets it on longevity – Dirk gets it on ultimate achievement in winning the title. They’re both revolutionary at their positons. I really favor rings so I’d probably go Dirk but by a very small margin.

Dan

How’s the boxing workout doin for Drew Bynum? Heard his coach is Freddie Roach.

Eric Pincus

Right – I haven’t caught up with Andrew for some time. Players scatter during the offseason and can be difficult to reach.

Alex

Can you try to explain to me the appeal of Durant as the NBA’s newest golden boy, from a media perspective? I find his game boring–he’s one dimensional and not particularly efficient at his one dimension (scoring) and his constant flopping from all spots on the floor are a disgrace to the sport.

Eric Pincus

Durant is a fun player in my view. He’s still learning but he’s a dangerous scorer. I don’t see him as boring. It’s all subjective I imagine. I can’t speak for other media. He’s one of the players I look forward to watching as he matures and learns how to turn his individual gifts into ultimate team success. Look at how well his team has done the last couple of years. I think that’s where the appeal lies.

Jhayee

if you are otis smith and dwight howard want to be traded.. who are the player you want in return??

tnx…

Eric Pincus

Who would I “want” in return – how about Derrick Rose? Kevin Durant? LeBron James? What’s realistic? It really depends on who has the leverage when the time comes.

Erik

Can this years first round picks start out playing in the d league affiliates even if the NBA is still locked out? At least they can develop their skills there and it would be more interesting to watch d league bball. Thanks Eric

Eric Pincus

From what I understand, no. I can’t swear to that – it’s a gray area but that’s my understanding.

Sports Fan

Howard and Paul should start their own big 3 by teaming up and playing for Jordan’s Bobcats. Paul is from NC and Howard, GA. Bringing both players closer to home/their families Bobcats become an instant contender by sparking interest form other quality free agents to team up with them. Maybe add a David West and or bring back Tyson Chandler. They will become the team to beat. Hummm.

Eric Pincus

Don’t see it – based on market size.

Keith C. Powell

Good am Eric…Eric you have both the ear of the Owners & the Union, give us your master plan for the new CBA for the NBA. Thank you

Eric Pincus

There will be some level of compromise – one that favors the owners more than the players. No hard cap but more restrictions. I’d get rid of the sign and trade. Most importantly I’d get it done before games are lost but alas I’m not in charge.

justin

Baron Davis for Memo Okur, Raja Bell. Who says no? Helps both Teams. Yes Gambling on Davis money is risky but Utah lacks depth at pg. Harris/Davis thats a pretty great combo..NO?

Eric Pincus

I mean, um . . . kinda. I just don’t see the Jazz wanting Baron that badly. You’re basically talking a salary dump from the Cavaliers and I’m not sure they do that either. It’s an ugly scenario either way.

justin

Utah trades Millsap/Bell for Jose Calderon? Then Resigns Ak to play the 3 and back up the 4 if ever need.

Eric Pincus

If I’m Utah I don’t trade Millsap/Bell for Jose Calderon. I just don’t.

hil316

Hi Eri, whats the deal with Eric Gordon
criticism of the clippers lately. Will he resigned with the clipps?

Eric Pincus

From what I understand Gordon mentioned that he didn’t aspire to be a Clipper when he was growing up. I haven’t actually heard/read the quotes but that’s what’s been suggested to me. If I’m incorrect then my apologies.

Gordon, from my experience, is not extremely talkative but he’s very open and honest when he does. I don’t think it was meant maliciously but is a reflection of how he felt coming up.

I see him staying with the Clippers beyond his current contract given that he’ll be a restricted free agent. I do know he’s fond of Indiana. I won’t swear he’ll be a career-long Clipper but he should be there for some time.

justin

Al Jefferson, Bell for Terrance Williams, Chase Budinger,Courtney Lee, G. Dragic, plus 1st rounder

Eric Pincus

Are you a Rockets or Jazz fan? If I’m Houston I consider a move for Jefferson but that’s too much – not Budinger and Lee and Dragic AND a first.

David Wally V

E, Ramon Sessions > Daniel Gibson.. IF LA can do this I would rather have Sessions with Blake and Fishy teaching them the ropes.. no Triangle offense right…

Eric Pincus

Perhaps but while Sessions may be more of a traditional point guard he doesn’t have a lot of range. Gibson can light it up from outside which is going to be necessary regardless of what system is run given the primary options of Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum. I’d say Gibson is the better fit frankly. I’m not sure the Lakers go with either given their investment in Derek Fisher, Steve Blake and eventually rookie Darius Morris. Waiting may be the choice.

Shahin O.

Hey E! I read ur article on weak PG agency. I assume CP3 is going to NYC. Can/should the Lakers lure D-Will or hope D.Morris pans out? And what’s the bigger obstacle to Dwight in LA? Jim Buss’ man-crush on Bynum or Otis Smith’s delusion of keeping Howard? Maybe we’ll try for Dwight next summer

Eric Pincus

That’s a mighty assumption there regarding Paul and the Knicks. I’m not assuming anything like that just yet. Obviously if the Lakers have a shot at Williams, they’re not going to hold off because of Darius Morris.

Jim Buss would trade Bynum for Howard I’m told so I don’t think your assumption there is correct. And there’s no reason just yet for Smith to deal Howard so there’s no real issue of delusion going on.

It’s a waiting period on a lot of fronts before these sort of issues get addressed but open the door with fewer assumptions.

vegasvic

Yo what’s up Eric!!!

True or false? Will Blake Griffin average 28pts, 12 rebs, 4 assists, 2 blocks and be one of the top 3 NBA players one day?

Eric Pincus

I don’t see Blake ever averaging anything close to 2 blocks a game. He has great potential in general. I look forward to seeing his game mature.

Kurt

Great PG article. Derek is usually in great shape but CBA work takes time and his age is an issue. Is Derek working out and what kind of shape is he in?

Eric Pincus

CBA negotiation is not keeping Fisher out of the gym. Let’s just leave it at that.

dwb

Eric do you like the Clippers chemistry? Obviously Blake and DJ are fast friends, but what are your thoughts on the camaraderie compared to successful squads in your experience?

Eric Pincus

I liked the team’s chemistry – more-so when Baron was moved. The Clippers are still missing a piece but this is a group that wants to play well and win together. That doesn’t mean they will but I see them on the uptick.

Dylan Stevenson

If you were the Lakers GM how would you go about resolving the problems at PG?

Eric Pincus

I address it here today http://www.hoopsworld.com/solving-problems-whats-the-answer-at-point-guard-for-the-l-a-lakers/ an honestly the answer would be wait. I don’t like any obvious immediate answers. If Lamar Odom can bring back a high-level player – be it Andre Iguodala – or even Monta Ellis (though less of a fit, the talent upgrade alone makes it worthwhile) – then they should. It’s easier to get a backup power forward than it is a player like Andre or Monta.

Otherwise – opportunities will arise beyond this summer (whatever that means with the lockout).

jdub

Love the site. Love ur atrticles. If there is a season, and the season is resolved, how do u feel like the tension would be between the players and the owners?? And lastly, if the season is shortened, whom do you predict of winning the Larry O’Brien trophy considering The conditioning of each team, the chemistry, and possible player trades that might occur (for example, clippers get an iguodala or a sf they yearn for)

Eric Pincus

If there’s resolution – there’s no tension. There’s just basketball. The title goes to one of the usual suspects – Mavericks, Lakers, HEAT, Celtics, etc.

Mark

I think its a bad idea for NY to even attempt to get a 3rd max guy. The 2 they have make more than any of HEAT stars and NY won’t be able to add any other guys like UD or MM. How can you bake a better cake with the same recipe and inferior ingredients? Thoughts?

Eric Pincus

I don’t agree with the notion. Look what the Celtics did once they got KG, Allen and Pierce. What about the HEAT who got to the Finals in year one with their big three. If NY can get a max player – the right max player – then do it and fill in the gaps.

Trevor

What do you think of a hedo for beasley or Maggette? improve perimeter play for orlando? Is there a market for meer to improve the roster assuming Gil returns to somewhat of his former self?

Eric Pincus

I can’t see why the Wolves want Hedo. I don’t see Maggette helping much anymore frankly. I’m not sure how the Magic improve dramatically but that doesn’t mean they won’t find some moves to try.

Mark

Can Bayless be a starter? If you were to trade one of the Bigs would it be Amir or Davis?

Eric Pincus

I just haven’t seen Bayless play consistently enough to be an NBA starter. Long-term Davis is probably better than Amir but today you can argue you’ll know exactly what you’ll get out of Johnson.

Mark

A lot of people are optimistic about the Warriors. Even more seem to think Curry is a Star. I don’t think either….Do you? Why?

Eric Pincus

I’m high on the Warriors and Curry. I’m not sure they’re a playoff team this season.

Mark

Would you entertain the idea of trading Pau?

Eric Pincus

Of course but for the right return . . . which would be a very short list.

Efren23

Do you think the nets if deron Williams decide not to sign with or just if they think he won’t sign with them would sign and trade him to the clippers Minnesota pick ? What do you think and do you think this is a possibility because I like derin better than Paul because chris paul can’t guard Westbrook and rose but deron has better chance not only that but Eric gordon good defender so is deandre and I’m sure Blake will come along!!!!

Eric Pincus

The sign and trade may go away in the new CBA – that would eliminate that option if that came to pass. Paul or Deron – I mean get either and we’ll talk. I don’t think it’s time to be picky here.

Mynor

Hi Eric,

Once the lockout is over, wouldn’t it be wise for the lakers to trade for some youth, if they don’t do it soon, things might get ugly in LA.

I was thinking trade Bynum and odom for iguadola, jrue holiday and hawes. That way the sixers make room for t. young, and Lou Williams can take over at the point, and the lakers get much younger.

Eric Pincus

The Lakers won’t trade for youth and sacrifice their chance to win – if it makes them better now and later, they’d consider it. Bynum isn’t going out in a package like that and the Sixers aren’t even offering something like that (especially with Jrue).

Josh

Eric,

Do you think it would be wise for the Jazz to use this year as a stepping stone for upcoming years? Trade guys like Jefferson/Milsap/Harris for picks and young talent? Hopefully get a Kybongo or Teague in the draft next year…

Eric Pincus

I’m not high on the current Jazz roster. They do need to think long-term rebuild but I wouldn’t just move Millsap or Jefferson for the sake of moving them. The return has to be right.

Clint

Jazz own Warriors pick in 2012 draft but it’s top 7 protected. Your take on the Warriors for next year finishing with a record that is better than a top 7 pick?

Eric Pincus

I expect the Warriors to win in the 35-42 range

Andy

Haywood+ RoddyB for JSmoothe? Hawks get a C and a replacement for Crawford, Mavs add youth, versatility and a backup for Dirk… who says no?

Eric Pincus

I’m not sure that’s the right deal for Atlanta. Is Haywood good enough? He’s pretty expensive.

Dylan Stevenson

I liked your article on the Lakers PG problems/solutions. Wouldn’t be easier to get a shooter to open the middle? What options do the lakers have at getting a “sniper”

Eric Pincus

Not a lot of snipers available – it’s a weak free agent market. LA may look to see if Goudeleock can help first. I had mentioned Daniel Gibson in that role if he’s available but also note he’s a bigger investment and I’m not sure LA goes there either.

ryan

seems like there is a heightened sense of urgency to get a new cba together soon. Are the recent meetings or anything you’re hearing creating encouraging signs for a season that starts on time?

Eric Pincus

Not really but there’s always hope that something changes.

Dylan Stevenson

Will the Lakers address their need at backup center (please no more ancient centers!). What are the chances of them going after a Jeff Foster?

Eric Pincus

Reasonably high in that he’s solid, knows Mike Brown and may be willing to come. It depends on a variety of factors. I won’t say he’s the one. We’ll see.

Dylan Stevenson

Do you see there being a huge free agent/trading frenzy when the NBA lockout ends? Do you see the Lakers making several moves or standing pat?

Eric Pincus

You’ll see the free agent frenzy in the sense that whoever isn’t with a team will need to sign up but no, I don’t expect a lot of major trades if the window between lockout resolution and start of season is short. I don’t expect much either from the Lakers as far as player movement. A backup center and another guard may be it.

Jim

Would the Clippers benefit from a new SF or Gary Vitti?

Eric Pincus

Well obviously they need a three. And injuries have been a constant issue for the Clippers through the years. Vitti is well-respected but it’s not like he can control things – like Bynum’s knee injuries, Kobe’s recent knee woes, etc.

D B

Do you have a favorite Laker play or moment that you could share with us?

Eric Pincus

Anything DJ Mbenga ever did as a laker

Efren23

Better fit for clippers chris Paul or deron Williams and y

Eric Pincus

Technically Deron might have the better outside shot but I don’t think you can go wrong with either player. Paul is a beast as we saw in the playoffs vs. teh Lakers.

Joe

I hope Clipps don’t end up with both Iggy and a star PG like CP3. That would be too many ball dominant players. I would rather them get a shooter like Granger of Manu and then have CP3. Also, do u think the Clipps would have to absorb Okafor in such a deal? Can they really afford that?

Eric Pincus

You’re saying they get both Iguodala and CP3? Oh and also that it’s a bad thing? Hmm . . .

At this point the Clippers need the talent and it’s going to be very, very difficult for LA to get any of those players. Granger isn’t available. They’d like Manu if the Spurs will take Kaman. I’m not sure how Okafor would fit into the mix but obviously you get into salary matching issues which may or may not work depending on the new CBA and who LAC was to send out.

Joe

What would you prefer the Clippers do? Get a starting caliber SF or a true PG?

Eric Pincus

Unless it’s an elite pg, I’d go small forward. Mo Williams is solid enough until then.

Dylan Stevenson

Are the Lakers planning on using that Vujacic TPE? Or are they letting that expire for cap room? I would try to pry OJ Mayo or Daniel Gibson with the TPE

Eric Pincus

If the lockout isn’t resolved in time (December), the exception may expire. Mayo makes a tiny bit too much to be had for the trade exception.

Edward

If Eric doesn’t see himself as a long term clipper, wouldn’t it be better to trade him and win now. I’d rather give Blake the help he needs. Maybe Deron Williams for Eric Gordon. then he can be closer to home.

Eric Pincus

You’re reading into things too deeply.

John Marsh

How valuable are the 12th-15th roster players to a team?

Alex Kennedy

It depends on the situation. Some teams keep veterans on the end of their bench who can be strong presences in the locker room and offer support. Other teams use those slots to develop projects who may be contributors down the road. I would say it really depends on the team’s coaching staff and front office. Those roster spots are used differently around the league. With that said, I think they are important and serve some purpose, otherwise they wouldn’t be on the payroll.