NBA Chat With Lang Greene 2/20/13

Lang Greene is a NBA Writer for HOOPSWORLD covering the Atlanta Hawks and Eastern Conference. Lang’s chat gets started at 8pm EST every Wednesday.

  1. Prismelk

    What happened to (all) stars joining the dunk contest? I mean D12 (I think) is the last all-star to join the said contest. Thanks!

    • Lang Greene

      What’s up Hoop Freaks? Happy 50th Birthday Charles Barkley!!!! Not much activity on the trade front, but the rumor mill is definitely churning as we approach the trade deadline. There are a lot of names at play and I’m told there could be some surprise additions to the party. We shall see … Let’s go …

      Well, Blake Griffin performed in the contest recently but I see your point. Back in the day before there were so many media streams to get your name out there the dunk contest was the prime event for guys to become household names. Over the years the momentum of the event shifted, media access exploded and the fans have become a bit more demanding.

      At the end of the day I believe it is all cyclical. All the NBA needs is a group of 4-5 young future All-Stars to go at it and care … and the event will rise again.

  2. Prismelk

    Why is Westbrook considered better POINT GUARD than Parker? Thanks!

    • Lang Greene

      Depends on who you talk to … depends on what you’re looking for in a floor general. Westbrook is definitely more explosive than Parker, but Tony is a Finals MVP and three-time, I said three-time NBA champion. Parker has had the better career to date and is likely headed to the Hall of Fame … Westbrook has some catching up to do – in terms of legacy building.

  3. Kevin Owens

    I’m sorry man, but why in the hell are they starting this LeBron comparison to MJ again? Why they keep looking over Kobe’s accomplishments? LeBron is a freak of nature, but to me he’s not on Kobe’s level just yet!

    • Lang Greene

      Simple … the changing of the guard has taken place. LeBron is now recognized (by most) as the best player in the game today. So that’s who the media will compare to the greatest of all-time. When Kobe was on top there was no shortage of Kobe and MJ comparisons. It’s just par for the course.

  4. APHX10

    Pootie Tang Lang!!

    DeMarcus Cousins…in my opinion the Center that the Lakers need. I see him having the same hunger, passion, emotion as Kobe does. I can see him leading that team and maturing under Kobe’s mentoring. Your opinion?

    • Lang Greene

      Do you really think DeMarcus Cousins is ready (mentally) to help a team contend for a title? I would like to see him get the Sacramento Kings to .500 before I deem him the Lakers’ missing piece in Kobe’s final years.

  5. Lucas

    How have you been keeping sir Greene? Are the Hawks in full rebuilding mode now that J-Smith is on the trade block. If he’s gone, do you still see them as a contender in the East?

    Thanks for your time as always, have a good one.

    • Lang Greene

      Not so sure Josh Smith is going anywhere. I’m at the arena tonight and I don’t get the vibe he’s being dealt. I could be way off base though …

  6. Alex in Burbank

    Lang, do you know what’s wrong with Alex Kennedy’s chats? Every time his chat comes, it never happens on time. Or it just never happens at all. Is there a reason for this? Perhaps, he’s a busy man and can’t make them? I was just wondering. Thanks!

    • Lang Greene

      Not sure. Alex is a very busy guy and has a lot of responsibilities for the site …

  7. Mr. Ballistik

    Do you think Josh Smith can be the primary offensive option on a contender? Of the realstic destinations, which team(s) do you think he could help the most?

    • Lang Greene

      No. I don’t think Josh Smith is dynamic enough to be a true lead guy offensively. Honestly, on a title contending team Josh should be slotted in the 2-3 role. Look at the defending champion Miami HEAT … a guy like Chris Bosh, a multiple time All-Star performer, is playing third fiddle.

      Houston is a team that comes to mind. They need a power forward. But I don’t believe they’re interested.

  8. Steve

    Hi Lang,
    How many rebounds per game could Charles Barkley have gotten with Dwight Howard’s body? I’m thinking around 20 and he could have scored 30 a night easily too. Chuck was a BAD MAN!

    • Lang Greene

      Respect to Charles Barkley. Definitely one of my favorite players of all-time. I get these sort of questions a lot, but I’m not sure having a bigger body would automatically equate to more success on the floor for Charles. In many cases, Barkley’s lack of size pushed him to play with the tenacity he is known for.

      Like people used to say, what if Allen Iverson was 6’5 … I always counter and say, his work ethic and overall game would have been a lot different …

  9. Ron Jeremy

    Lang,
    I think Josh Smith needs to go to an uptempo, run and gun offense, maybe like Denver.

    Would a free-flowing run system help him use his skills best?

    • Lang Greene

      A team like Denver would showcase his skills, but the Nuggets have no interest. I’m with you though … a Western Conference type offense would undoubtedly benefit Josh Smith. The less you’re in a halfcourt offense the better Smoove would be offensively.

  10. Steve

    Lang,
    Have you watched the young guys for the Thunder?
    They have some nice assets they can use to upgrade theirmrotation for a championship run.

    Should we look for them to trade for a veteran PG or SF?

    • Lang Greene

      The young guys on the Thunder definitely have a place in the league long term, but how many rookies or second year players truly make strong impacts on title contending teams? At the end of the day it is a veteran’s league when it comes winning time. Jeremy Lamb and PJ will have to bide their time and learn while watching.

  11. Howard, Dwight

    Why is everyone so down on me?
    I didn’t bring any of this drama to LA, I just want to win.
    That’s all I care about.
    Hell yes, I want my full salary despite being only 50% healthy.

    • Lang Greene

      Sometimes you have to be careful what you wish for big fella. Bigger market usually equals higher expectations, more pressure and lots of daily hoopla. Like Biggie said “Mo Money, Mo Problems”

  12. Cain

    My fave players in the NBA are Paul George, Damian Lillard and Demar Derozan. They are all young and inconsistent, how do players work on consistency?

    • Lang Greene

      A lot of it comes down to experience. Younger guys are still finding out about their respective games … finding out their limitations as players … still finding their niche. It takes a while for guys to play to their strengths at the pro level consistently. For years these guys were the top dogs coming through the ranks … now they have to really put in the gym work to stay on top. NBA is a different beast.

  13. Deven

    Hi Lang. Finish this sentence: After the trade deadline passes, Josh Smith will be playing for. . . .?

    • Lang Greene

      the Atlanta Hawks.

      Just my gut feeling. I don’t believe Atlanta is getting the type of packages they want in return. And if that is the case why trade him just to do it. They are poised for another playoff appearance as things stand … why not ride it out?

  14. Tim Grover

    What do u think about the rumor that weezy hooked up with chris bosh wife?

    • Lang Greene

      Man, can you guys give Chris Bosh a break? What has the guy done to get this slander, lol … I mean, I understand the photo bombs but the other stuff isn’t my cup of tea to speculate on.

  15. Prismelk

    Three (3) questions:

    1.) Who is the best player to never win any MVP award?

    2.) Who is the best player to never been named an All-star?

    3.) Who is the best dunker to never win a dunk contest?

    Thanks!

    • Lang Greene

      Off the top of my head … so be gentle

      1. Dominique Wilkins, Patrick Ewing, Scottie Pippen, Kevin Durant, etc
      2. Josh Smith is my active player choice
      3. James White. No matter what you saw this past Saturday night, White was a dunking legend in his prime. You Tube that man.

  16. Prismelk

    Michael Jordan. Kobe Bryant. LeBron James.

    Who has the most haters? Who is hated the most and why? Thanks!

    • Lang Greene

      Kobe has more haters than LeBron because Bryant is the closest thing to MJ’s legacy and fans get defensive when it comes to defending their heroes.

  17. Radu

    Hi Lang,
    A question unrelated to the trade deadline:

    7 games series:
    2003-2004 Detroit Pistons vs. today’s Miami Heat
    2004-2005 San Antonio Spurs vs. today’s Miami Heat

    What do you think? I have the Heat getting pummeled badly in both, but maybe I’m just suffering from old man “they don’t make ‘em like they used to” syndrome…

    • Lang Greene

      1. Give me the current Miami HEAT
      2. Give me the 2005 Spurs, although I think it would go 7

  18. Jason

    Could a trade of Jsmoove for Okafor and JCrawford make some sence for both teams. Al can go to PF and they gain a talented scorer.

    • Lang Greene

      No. Hawks had Jordan Crawford and traded him midway through his rookie season. No way Atlanta takes that type of deal for Josh Smith

  19. jaimeson

    Here’s a new dunk contest idea. Have these guys play a game of horse with just dunks. Follow the guy ahead of you. Maybe give 2 tries. If “horse” is too long call it “jam”. Could even have judges with scores if need be, But not necessary. Can’t have these guys missing 3-5 attempts before the making dunk. This was bad and I wasn’t disappointed in who they selected cuz these guys can jump out the gym. I expected something tho.

  20. LA in LA

    I hear your Hawks are coming hard after Dwight Howard.
    So my 2 questions are:

    1)Would they be offering Horford or Josh Smith as the trade piece? It’s an interesting dilemma: Smith want’s more money than he’s worth, but is a great friend of Howard’s and would motivate him to stay longer. On the other hand Horford is (Imo) the better player and on a good contract for a few more years. Either can play PF next to Gasol.

    2) If you were Ferry, who would you trade for Howard?

    • Lang Greene

      1. The offer would likely center around Al Horford and Jeff Teague. But that window is closed. Lakers aren’t making that deal so answered this one for fun
      2. If I was Ferry I wouldn’t trade for Dwight Howard

  21. Mutangclan

    Hey Lang man, lots of Josh Smith stuff I’m sure, but one deal that hasn’t seem to be approached yet and I’m surprised, is Al Jefferson for Josh Smith. ATL has wanted a legit C forever so Horford could play PF, and Utah needs a good SF (Marv did not work out, he’s better on the bench). Both teams can see how it looks, and then maybe make an attempt to resign. If not, both teams are in the same spot they would have been anyway.
    I want Josh Smith in Utah!!

    • Lang Greene

      Two things here … Josh Smith can’t play small forward full-time and Enes Kanter isn’t ready to assume the full-time center spot in Utah just yet. That’s why I don’t see this deal having any sort of traction. Throw in the fact Derrick Favors is Utah’s future at power forward and it just puts the nail in it further

  22. Alex in Burbank

    Who says NO. Lakers get Andrew Bynum, Sixers get Iguadala, Magic get Howard.

    I’m kidding! LoL

    But seriously, are the Lakers stuck with Howard this season, then lose him or will they trade him before Thursday?

  23. mojart

    i know this is just a rumor…what you think about this trade…EG and aminu for klay thompson, barnes and either beidrins or jefferson contract?warriors is in a win now mode…so this make sense….thanks

    • Lang Greene

      Klay Thompson has star potential but Eric Gordon is basically a finished package, a true 20+ per night threat. The problem is EG’s knee problems. Big risk if you’re Golden State.

  24. dealer dell

    Ur thoughts on ANTHONY DAVIS game 2 to 3 years from now?superstar?all star?who would have a better future lillard or davis?

    • Lang Greene

      I think Anthony Davis will be a 17/9/3 type of guy. Possibly an All-Star.

      But, personally, I’m not to high on the guy. Some of his actions are questionable to me … speaking from a media perspective.

  25. DK

    are the lakers making the playoffs, they look bad?

    • Lang Greene

      I wouldn’t put any of my hard earned money on the line betting against Kobe Bryant.

  26. Jay

    Sam Presti is one up the better GMs in my opinion and always looking to improve his team. I think the first half of the season proved they are not as dangerous as they were with Harden. Can you see Eric Maynor and Kendrick Perkins being shopped somewhere in a package deal?

    • Lang Greene

      I can definitely see Eric Maynor being shopped for an asset. I’m not sure if the kid is 100 percent back from that awful knee injury. Doesn’t look as explosive.

  27. Marco

    Considering Jeff Green’s drastic improvement over the past few weeks, should the Atlanta Hawks rekindle their interest in a jeff green package (plus bass/lee, Melo, and some first rounders for Josh Smith?

    • Lang Greene

      Does Jeff Green really make the Hawks better? To me this is a lateral move and one I’d pass on if I were a GM.

  28. Badax33

    Lang, what’s happening?

    What kind of trade deal can my Celtics make for Rondo? I love Rondo, but think having him the best player with his obvious faults takes away from the team.
    I had suggested Rondo to the Kings for Jason Thompson, Francisco Garcia (or other filler) and 2 first round picks (this year’s and maybe one protected).

    Am I selling low or does the injury to
    Rondo kill his trade value?

    I think we can compete for a banner with the current team if we improve our rebounding and interior defense.

    • Lang Greene

      Danny Ainge has told Rajon Rondo’s camp he won’t be traded at this year’s deadline.

  29. CJ

    With Josh Smith all but gone do you accept a package of Monta Ellis, Larry Sanders and a pick if you’re the Hawks.

    • Lang Greene

      You have Lou Williams so bringing in Monta Ellis is basically a redundant type of move. Both are undersized two guards who puts up points in a hurry. I don’t see how this move benefits Atlanta long term.

  30. Q-Man

    What’s good Lang how are you and the family? school is going well, thanks for asking. Here another 3

    1. What would it take to make Atlanta a major sports market
    2. Every body wants to trade Josh but he has a better variety of skills then Big Al and seem more passionate about the game
    3. Would you trade Big Al for Al Jefferson and pick ( Jefferson is nasty on that block and Big Al like shoot jumpers)

    • Lang Greene

      What’s good 3Q?

      1. Got to change the perception of the fans here. Land a major guy … in his prime.
      2. I think Al and Josh have the same passion they just express it differently. I think Josh is more dynamic and athletic than Al, but Horford has the more consistent game.
      3. I actually like Al Jefferson to team with Al Horford for an awesome inside-out frontcourt combo.

  31. blah blah blah

    bill ingram once said david west would be a perfect fit for houston…… Do you agree? I don’t. if Daryl Morey was smart he would go after milsap. Hes younger, plays better defense, and less injury prone. Yeah West might have the veteran presnce, but last time i recall West has never even made it to the NBA finals. what do you think?

    • Lang Greene

      I agree with Bill and have also said this in the past. David West would be the perfect addition in Houston. But they went younger with Thomas Robinson.

      Look at the impact West had on the Pacers when he arrived. A true stabilizing veteran presence.