NBA Chat With Stephen Brotherston 4/9/12

1. Cain

   Is the only thing stopping the Pacers from being on level with Bulls and Heat, Paul george beoming a consistent 17-18ppg scorer?

   • Stephen Brotherston

     Welcome to the Chat.
     It is great to get a Pacers question to kick things off.

     It is really a treat to see an organization doing thing right and reaping the rewards. As of now, the only thing that might hold back the Pacers is inexperience – and this year’s playoffs should help fill that need in a big way.

     Expect growth throughout much of this roster – not just George – and set your sights on next year and the year after as they will be better. Don’t put it all on George, he is just one guy who is expected to improve.

2. Cain

   How would Eric Bledsoe look as a Pacer next season? He could have a Ty lawson type impact on the Pacers.

   • Stephen Brotherston

     I often hear about how Bledsoe would help some team – still not sure why? A turnover machine who hasn’t proven anything at the NBA level except he still isn’t a reliable backup PG.

     EB is all about potential – the Pacers have guys who are players at PG now – players with potential too.

3. dzei

   how would a demarcus cousins and anthony davis front court fair in the nba???

   • Stephen Brotherston

     Talent wise great. But its questionable if Cousins should be paired with a rookie at this point in his career – probably not the best thing for his development.

4. Mike

   Hey Stephen,
   How would you review the season Ed Davis has had and what type of player he is going to be down the line. My worry is that he is going to be one of those power forwards who takes a really long time to “get it” and make an impact. Or he will be one of those bigs who is only average. I am overreacting, what’s your opinion?

   • Stephen Brotherston

     You should be worried that Ed is taking a while to “get-it”

     We see the glimpses of his college promise but we should be expecting more in his 2nd NBA season.

     Not having the Raptors coaches watch over his summer work outs because of the lockout undoubtedly hurt Ed’s development – but there was nothing anyone could do and its hard to develop skills & strength during a season.

     You are not overreacting – the concern is reasonable. Lockout excuses don’t override concerns – they just suggest he could show a lot more progress this summer. (everyone hopes so anyway)

5. Mike

   Who is the best use of the amnesty on the Raptors roster, Kleiza or Amir Johnson?

   • Stephen Brotherston

     Very unlikely to use Amnesty in Toronto – likely no point.

     Raptors will only use Amnesty if necessary to clear space to sign a star FA – and no one really expects a star FA to sign here. Raptors are looking for their star in the draft and FA will likely be solid young vets that they will be able to fit into the space they have.

6. raps4ever

   Hi Steve, In order for the Raptors, to be in the playoff next year, they need to sign players like Josh Smith PF,Nicolas Batum SF, Goran Dragic PG, back-up C John Thompson, Back-up PG Shelvin Mack or Nate Robinson. Is there any chance to get them?

   • Stephen Brotherston

     Assuming you don’t expect to get ALL of these players?

     Josh Smith would be an amazing pickup – but he’s not a FA yet – tough trade.
     Goran Dragic would fit in nicely if Bayless is gone – worth taking a chance on – he could become the PG of the future and its possible.
     Not sure about the rest as actually being an upgrade – but Little Nate is sure a crowd pleaser and probably gettable.

     Note: Batum would be a nice pickup but Portland isn’t going to let him walk away.

7. maestro

   I know it’s early but I thought I would do a mock draft based on how I believe the lottery will fall:

   1) Hornets ( just have a feeling that with a new owner the nba will reward NO) – Davis (Kentucky)
   2) Bobcats – Robinson (Kansas) (actually think he has the motor to excel in the league)
   3) Portland (have this gut feeling that NJ will end up with the third pick and be able to keep it however I see them trading the pick to Portland for their first pick back and Portland’s 2012 pick) – Drummond (Connecticut)
   4) Wizards – Kidd-Gilchrist (Kentucky)
   5) Raptors – Barnes ( UNC)
   6) Pistons – Sullinger (OSU)
   7) NO- Lilard (Weber State) (Trade with King)
   8) Cleveland – Beal (Florida)
   9) Utah – Lamb (UCONN)
   10) Kings – Jones(Baylor) (Kings wanted Sullinger but trade down once he’s off the board)
   11) NJ (from Portland) – Jones (Kentucky)
   12) Bucks – Zeller (UNC)
   13) Jazz – Marshall (UNC)
   14) Suns – Rivers ( Duke) (overrated yes! Lottery pick just watch)

   Now for the question who replaces Del Negro next year as the Clippers coach.

   • Stephen Brotherston

     I like your draft – Drummond go higher or lower depending on who is picking – big project centers with upside are tough to predict.

     Clippers next coach – we should wait until we see how VDN does in the playoffs – then wait to see who gets fired. BUT – SVG would sure bring a ton of discipline and confidence to that young group of players (Orlando’s loss – maybe).

8. Ben Aldridge

   Who in the NBA would you Compare Jonas Valanciunas to? What Kind of Impact will he have in his rookie year?

   If he is the steal of the draft where would you rank him among the top young nba centers a few years from now Like Roy Hibbert, Demarcus Cousins, Javele Mcgee, Brook Lopez.

   • Stephen Brotherston

     I like Maurizio’s comparison of a young Tyson Chandler with good feet and a better offensive game. Jonas is a natural rebounder and shot blocker – but he showed early in his career good hands on pick-and-roll and is already developing a mid-range jump shot.

     JV is unlike any of your suggestions in some important ways.

     Hibbert was very raw – it took 4 years for him to find his game.
     Cousins & McGee both have the talent but lack the maturity JV has already shown.
     Brook should be compared more to Andrea Bargnani than anyone in your list – very different skill set and mindset.

     JV potential looks higher as of now – but until he actually plays, it’s potential.

9. Mark ryan

   Besides Anthony Davis who would you want the Raptors to Draft this June? What do you see the Raptors doing if MKG or Harrison Barnes arent on the Board?

   • Stephen Brotherston

     MKG probably played himself into #2. Barnes is solid as a top 5.
     Beal is a very intriguing pick – like him a lot.
     J Lamb – if his workouts are good – high potential selection.
     Thomas Robinson is a beast – Raps are deep at PF but Robinson is worth moving some players to fit into the rotation.

     Best player available who looks like a sure thing.

10. Mack

    Would Toronto be able to tyreke in a trade? Would he be a fit?

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Tyreke is the kind of young talent the Raps would make fit if they could land him and there is a chance the Kings are willing to start shaking things up.

      Tough trade to make though.

11. Hugh

    Is tyreke Evans, Isaiah Thomas for rondo a realistic trade?

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Realistic for the Kings – yes!
      Boston would be thinking hard though – a sure thing All-Star for young potential??? That’s going to depend on if the Cs are going to blow it all up this summer or not. That Boston team would be dysfunctional as constructed without Rondo (or a very good pass first PG)

12. Keefe

    hi stephen, 2 questions.
    1. What’s Myck Kabongo’s draft status? is he eligible? Last time I checked his stock is around the late first round, any chance the raptors can trade the 2 2nd rounds/cash for the pick? would love to see a hometown kid playing for the team
    2. should the raptors have a go for tyreke evans? Still think he’s a great talent.

    • Stephen Brotherston

      It looks like Myck is headed back to Texas for another season – AND that’s probably the right decision. He just didn’t have a strong enough freshman campaign to risk coming out early.

      Myck is 19, finished a year of college and he could still change his mind and enter this year’s draft – but that’s not expected.

      Tyreke – if the Kings start floating his name out there as available – YES, the Raps should be all over that opportunity – amazing athlete – star potential.

13. Josh

    Stephen,

    The Jazz have alot of choices this upcoming offseason. If they land with two draft picks I would actually prefer to use the first pick (assuming it is around the 9th pick) on someone like Sullinger, Lamb, Zeller. Then use the second pick (around 12 or 13th) for trade. Why not a trade of Al Jefferson, Devin Harris and the 13th pick for Lowry and Kevin Martin? Jazz get an established PG to run with the youngs while still have a rookie to groom and the Rockets get a vet PG, pick for future, and the big they lack in Jefferson…

    • Stephen Brotherston

      If Kevin O’Connor can pull that off – put his name in for EOY. Great idea, if only the Rockets didn’t see Lowry being the guy who was going to take them all the way. Definitely a good plan though – I’d try it.

14. Kevin

    Hi Stephen,

    Was talking to a buddy of mine about colangelo and would like your take on this. We agreed that the raps should let him go after he finishes his contract next season. He’s a decent GM and there is logic with his moves. However, we thought it would be time for the organization get a new GM with a different vision and approach. Thoughts??

    • Stephen Brotherston

      The very smooth and highly-polished Colangelo is precisely the kind of President MLSE want to have when they meet with Rogers and Bell at future shareholder and Board meetings – the Raptors put Ed Stefanski in place to tone down the risk taking Colangelo was becoming known for in his trades and signings.

      It all seems like a good fit and don’t be surprised if the new ownership re-affirms Colangelo as President after they take over on July 1. The new vision and approach is already in place.

15. Patrick

    Hi Stephen! If the Raptors address their need for a swingman in the upcoming draft, who do you see them targeting in the FA market (trades aside)? Maybe a long-term solution at PG (Dragic?)?

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Dragic is possible, C Lee would be a good target – look to Casey’s wish list for free agent additions. A 25-28 year old proven vet – someone he can put in the rotation day 1 and be an obvious upgrade at both ends of the floor. A draft day deal would fit this model really well – Casey really doesn’t want to get younger.

16. JM

    Any idea what did James Johnson do to get benched?

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Neither Casey nor JJ will answer this question directly but the media table gossip says JJ challenged Casey during practice on something like playing time or role a little too hard and Casey sat his butt down to remind him who’s in charge.

17. jose rizal

    Any chance the lakers sign a guy for their last spot?and is the rage on bynum’s personality a good thing or needs help? Thanks for the chat

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Just remember the Lakers pay double for every player so unless the Coach makes his case for why he has to have someone – not a lot of incentive to add a bench warmer.

      Lakers are loaded – if Brown wants another body, he’ll get another body.

18. Patrick Wilson

    Yesterday, I read a rumor that the HEAT might trade Bosh for an early lottery pick to obtain Thomas Robinson or Jared Sullinger. Does this make sense for the HEAT?

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Financially – it makes a ton a sense – makes even more sense next season but they might try to beat the rush to unload salary – its possible – pretty hard to confirm something like that.

19. Will

    Do you think the Magic have the peices to get Tyreke Evans on draft night?

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Doubtful

20. Ron

    When it comes to going after free agents is there any scenerio where the Raps money is not tied up waiting for the deal to become official? Is there a clear distinction as to what the biggest need is for the Raps in terms of player position? ie: SG or PG

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Raptors are looking for a Star player or someone who could become a star player – more likely in the draft than FA – but outside of PF, they’d like to find a star at any position (and maybe even at PF)

      The good news on signing RFA is teams only have 3 days to respond so your money is not tied up very long anymore.

21. TJ

    Why is everyone so down about the suns? They are in 9 place and get no credit Nash has been great and Michael redd is finding a rhythm and Shannon brown is on fire. But we get no consideration for the playoffs and we just beat the jazz. If we get Aaron Brooks back that’s a pretty good lineup

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Suns are just in a tough spot – very competitive situation where most outcomes do not favor them. But if someone stumbles, the Suns could slip in – they do have good players.

22. Charry

    Pleasant day Stephen! I’m an avid fan and supporter of Raptors. My only wish for them is to get someone who can lead them and have the guts and intelligence of Kobe Bryant or Chris Paul. Among the free agent for this coming summer whom do you think the Raptors need to hire in order for the Raptors be a playoff team? Hopefully, an experienced veteran who has the heart and mental toughness. I want to see them in the playoffs next year.

    • Stephen Brotherston

      It probably will not be just one move or change that lets the Raptors compete for a playoff spot. Casey wants young experienced veterans 25-28 years old because this won’t be a 1-year turnaround – it’s something they want to build on going forward. Look for 3 or 4 changes in the rotation next year.

      This team needs to get back to the playoffs in the worst way.

23. Derek C

    Which would be a more favorable matchup for the Knicks (Miami or Chicago)? It does not look as if they will be able to avoid either at this point, if they make the playoffs at all. They are playing GREAT defense as of late.

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Knicks are playing better – it’s just hard to give them any chance at beating either the HEAT or the Bulls and it won’t matter which – unless injuries open the door.

24. Pound the Rock

    Given Goran Dragic’s recent surge as a temporary starting point guard. Do you think the Raps should make a run at him in the off-season to be the “point guard of the future”? Or could this be similar situation to what happened with Darren Collison filling in for Chris Paul only to fall of a cliff as a starter for the Pacers.

    • Stephen Brotherston

      You have identified the risk and the reality of going after FA in the NBA. It’s kind of like gambling.

25. Steve

    what are the Raptor’s plans for the future to make them into a winning team or will they always just be one injury away from a lottery pick

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Any team has to have depth or its 1 injury away – Raps do need more depth and that is part of Colangelo’s plan.

26. NorthenFan

    I’ve never been one to prone tanking and i like that Dwayne Casey has got the Raps competing every game but it seems like these last few games would be better if let the bench players hash it out i’d really like to get MKG! hows is that looking for the raptors come the draft?

    • Stephen Brotherston

      MKG should go #2 – hope the lottery balls bounce Toronto’s way. Raps could finish anywhere from 4th to 9th (worst)

27. NorthenFan

    I know its a shorten season but what do you think of the level of competition in the east? The 7th and 8th seed in the west wouldn’t be better off in the east standing wise is there a general consensus that the 2 conferences are more balanced now?

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Its an unbalanced schedule (worse this season) and the arguments about which conference is “better” are always purely subjective.

28. Adam K

    Hi,
    I’m doing a informative speech in my college class, about building a championship caliber nba basketball team–the process– any help/tips you can give me?
    Thanks!

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Look at the 2 obvious models – Celtics, accumulate assets, trade for veterans versus OKC, build through the draft.

      Could argue both are the same – the Cs just realized their young assets weren’t going to pan out and changed plans mid-stream.

29. Kb19

    James johnson has really impressed me during this season for the raptors, but i feel like he gets limited touches. Do you think raps should give james a few more touches and run some more plays for him?

    • Stephen Brotherston

      James needs to work on his offensive this off season with the coaching staff – he has the potential to get much better. If you watch – the Raps are giving touches to DD as they see him as the offensive player with the most room to develop further. JJ will have to develop his O after the season.

30. charry

    If you have the privelege of adding a player for Raptors for each position from the free agent for this year, whom you will choose and why? (one for each position)

    PG – Steve Nash, Jason Terry, DJ Agustin, Goran Dragic, Kirk Hinrich
    SG – Eric Gordon, Ray Allen, OJ Mayo,
    Nick Young, Courtney Lee
    SF – Gerald Wallace, Nic Batum, Jeff Green, Andres Nocioni
    PF – Kevin Garnett, Ryan Anderson, Ersan Ilyasova
    C – Roy Hibbert, Spencer Hawes, Omer Asik
    Thank you so much…..

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Just for fun:

      Steve Nash because he’d equal a season of building sellouts – intense.
      C Lee – young vet with the O and the D Casey needs.
      Batum for excitement & potential
      Ilyasova – another young vet having an amazing breakout campaign
      Hibbert – just solid

31. Chris

    Are any teams kicking themselves for not giving agent zero a chance ??

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Not yet anyway. Wait for the playoffs.

32. charry

    Andrea Bargnani and Jose Calderon are both fine shooter and has an average passing ability, but defending they’re really poor… you always see them watching the ball and doesn’t defend as much. Do you think Raptors can correct this problem and train them accordingly? I like James Johnson, Jerryd Bayless, Amir Johnson and Ed Davis, Gary forbes… they are good defensive player. Thanks for your time Stephen

    • Stephen Brotherston

      If we have seen only one thing this season – it is Coach Casey’s defense makes usually poor defenders look pretty good. I wouldn’t worry about Calderon and Bargnani being effective in Casey’s system.

      Every team needs a balance of offensive and defensive talents.

33. jacqui

    Will Jamaal Magloire be back in Raptors uniform next year, heard he think he can play 5 more years. Thanks.

    • Stephen Brotherston

      Jamaal told me he was in the “best shape of his career” at training camp. But anyone who has watched him play knows that wasn’t true. Jamaal works extremely hard, has lost a huge step in conditioning and athleticism, but can still be surprisingly effective in short bursts. He might just make a good big man coach.

      It’s hard to see next year let alone 5 more

34. jon

    Hey stephen is it possible the nets can still trade for howard in the offseason let’s say around draft night. If not what do you think the nets will do to keep deron williams in a net uniform?

    • Stephen Brotherston

      The Nets have gone all-in on Deron. Don’t expect a draft day deal.

      Nets will still be trying to swing a DH trade this summer and re-sign D Will – which is possible – not easy or a sure-thing, but possible.

35. David

    Wow, your analysis of Eric Bledsoe is woefully misinformed. You should really take a look at the last 10+ games. Maybe Toronto is just too far away to get LA games. ..

    • Stephen Brotherston

      I wouldn’t base a player’s evaluation on any 10 game stretch – but that is a hopeful sign that maybe he is starting to get it – but he’ll need to show a lot more to undo the impression he has left so far on me.

      Update:
      Eric Bledsoe in April
      17.5 min, 8.8 pts, 3.3 asts, 2.5 to

      My impression isn’t changed…..

      That’s all for today.
      Thanks for all the great questions and comments.