NBA Chat With Stephen Litel 2/21/12

Stephen Litel will stop by on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 8:00pm EST to answer your questions, NBA fans. Get those questions in now.

  1. Derek

    Why aren’t there any ‘Fire Mike Brown’ chants? He looks really lost on offense and though the roster has holes, pushing your SFs and backups through a revolving door doess little to help.
    If only the Lakers had employed Rick Adelman

    • Stephen Litel

      What’s up, everyone? I’m here and ready to answer your questions. I see a lot of good ones in the que, so let’s get to it. If I don’t get to yours, be sure to give me a follow on Twitter @stephenlitel.

      Mike Brown is having difficulty getting everything figured out, but how much of it do you really blame on him? He’s doing a decent job with what he has, but more of the blame has to fall to the front office, which is a mess right now. This is the first year in the post-Phil Jackson era and the entire team is in flux. Brown’s offense would run much more smoothly with a solid point guard and it’s difficult to watch Derek Fisher sometimes, isn’t it? Give it time…and be more upset with the suits upstairs at this point.

  2. Deven

    Hi Mr. Litel. With the Eastern Conference being that weak, do you see any other teams below the top 8 catching up in the standings? If so, who are they and why?

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Deven,

      Taking a quick glance at the Eastern Conference, I really don’t see any teams outside of the current top eight making a push. I think the eight teams are pretty much set, but, of course, now the question is what order. I’ll stay with the current eight of Miami, Chicago, Orlando, Philadelphia, Indiana, Atlanta, New York and Boston.

  3. Evan

    Hey Stephen, as a Nuggets fan I’m really concerned with the team at the moment. Since starting 14-5, we’ve gone 4-11 in our last 14 games. I get that Gallo and Nene being out has a lot to do with that but, still were playing with little to no energy at times currently. We really could use a spark, especially on the offensive end…is there anyway the Nuggets could make a move at the deadline. Maybe pry away O.J. Mayo or Ray Allen away from there respective teams?.

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Evan,

      I hear ya on the Nuggets right now, but stay the course. When they are healthy, they are a great young team and should be given time to grow together. Let Gallo and Nene get healthy and roll with that.

  4. Radu

    Wouldn’t Ray Allen be an absolute perfect fit for Minnesota at this point?
    I know Boston isn’t ready to give up on their big name players yet, but if they do at some point decide to retool for the future, how about Wes Johnson and Pekovic for Ray Allen? Or maybe Beasley and Wes? Would Ray Allen resign if the team made the playoffs this year?

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Radu,

      A player like Ray Allen would be a great fit, ideally, but not the Ray Allen of this season who is starting to look very, very old. I would much rather roll with a younger shooting guard like OJ Mayo that we always hear trade rumors about.

      And, by the way, with how Allen is playing this season, Wes Johnson AND Pekovic would be WAY too much for him, despite the career he’s had. Maybe Beasley alone if Boston was dumb enough to do it, which they wouldn’t be…or Beas and Wes. No Pekovic involved. He needs to stay in Minny.

  5. Aristotle

    Hello Stephen,

    LeBron James… MVP season indeed. But does he choke again in the Finals in the 4th? I’m a Miami fan, and I think we’ll be haunted by last years finals for the rest of the James – Wade era (I do hope I’m wrong).

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Aristotle,

      Yeah, LeBron is having another amazing regular season. He and Wade are great fun to watch.

      As far as the choking part of the question, as much as I’d like to be able to look into my crystal ball and answer that for you, I can’t. Only LeBron can answer that question when the time comes. All he can do at this time is exactly what he is doing…making sure his team has home court advantage throughout. That way, the home crowd can cheer him on when he may be going through one of those “choking” moments and help elevate him over any mental hurdles.

  6. Gil

    Hello, I feel that. as least on paper for now, the Knicks may have the most talented starting five in the league. However, that’s not enough to win a title. How would you rate their bench? What pieces are they still missing, if any?

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Gil,

      I’m really not impressed with the Knicks bench at all and this is something they’ll need to address as soon as possible, whether that’s at the trade deadline or during the off-season. You’re right that they have a fine starting lineup, but that’s not going to cut it.

  7. phil. star

    since lakers is looking for a pg. what about jarett jack? since the cp3 trade he’s average was 15ppg 6apg 3rpg. Do you think he can be a solid starting pg long term?

    • Stephen Litel

      Jack is a fine NBA player. Solid, but nothing spectacular. Is he the missing piece for the Lakers? Nope…they would still need to address more issues.

  8. alan

    Bulls trade: Boozer, Ronnie Brewer
    Bucks Trade: Stephen Jackson, Drew Gooden, Ilyasova
    Bucks lose a headache in jax and pick up some consistent offense in boozer who should fit will with bogut. The bulls gain some scoring, defense and a 5th big man who fits the system. Both teams can shed contracts that neither wants. A pick can go either way to make up value .

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Alan,

      The Bulls say no to this. They would certainly trade Boozer if they could get something more than this, but this doesn’t help them get past the HEAT. They hang up the phone.

  9. Drew

    Thoughts on these trades?
    LA- Scola, Beaz and Luke
    Houston- Gasol
    Minny- K Martin
    Should work for all parties and give them what they all want!
    Or

    Any way that Atlanta would trade Williams to Minny for Wes and there choice of Randolph, Darko or B Miller!

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Drew,

      Without looking at salaries, I’ll assume you already have. If so, this is somewhat of an intriguing trade. It does address a lot of needs for each team. Give David Kahn a call.

      I wouldn’t want any part of Marvin Williams, even if he’s replacing two of the players you mentioned.

  10. Jazzfan

    Who player would you say drives you the most crazy with his inconsistency? Like he shows flashes of being a potential superstar but more often looks just average

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Jazzfan,

      Well, located in Minnesota, this one is easy for me…Michael Beasley. When he’s on, he’s great. When his shot isn’t falling, he’s frustrating because he continues to jack up off-balance shots and stopping the newly found ball movement in Minnesota that has been such a key to their attack. It’s just a tough situation with Beasley because he’s a good guy and means well, but at what point do you have to move on if he can’t find other ways to contribute when his shot isn’t falling?

  11. andrew

    One more question. I read the lakers are in talks to pick up sessions for a first round pick n that theres a good chance it might happen. Please tell me we didnt just pull manny harris out of the d leauge to make this trade happen. R. Sessions has proven hes worth much more than a draft pick right?

    • Stephen Litel

      I haven’t heard anything of this trade, but if it goes down…the Lakers are getting a good one. Sessions is a good player, but as I mentioned in my Jack response earlier, he’s not the “missing piece.” The Lakers would still need to address other spots. As far as the Cavs go, they better REALLY have faith in Harris.

  12. Cain

    How about a trade of Rondo + Allen for Granger + Collison?

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Cain,

      I actually think Indiana says no here. Rondo would be a good fit, but they’re also giving up too much value in return. They can do better than this.

  13. AJ

    Wolves get: Ellis
    Golden State gets: Webster, Williams, 1st round pick (from MEM)

    Minnesota gets that last pieces they need. Warriors get a couple pieces, while also allowing themselves to lose enough to not give up their draft pick.

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi AJ,

      I don’t see this one happening either. If you don’t think Michael Beasley is a good fit, than why would Ellis be? Both are chuckers. However, if these two teams would discuss a trade of Ellis, this is probably about the best the Warriors could get from the Timberwolves.

  14. AirJazzy

    What kind of two guard does Sota need? scoring or defensive minded? Long or strong? Veteran or young? And whatcan they give up without losing their depth or possible break out talent? Thx

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi AirJazzy,

      They need a two-guard who can actually hit shots consistently. They do not need someone to dominate the ball and stop the ball movement. They need a longer shooting guard who can compete on the defensive end. It doesn’t matter if it’s a veteran or a younger player, as long as they can do all of the above. It says a lot if at this point in the season, their most consistent player at the position is Wayne Ellington (who, if you follow me on Twitter, I cannot believe can’t find a way to get off the bench lately.)

  15. Drew

    Would ATL consider Beaz and Ellington plus a 2nd round pick or two for Tmac and M Williams? Would you do it if you are the wolves?

    • Stephen Litel

      Atlanta would absolutely consider it. Minnesota wouldn’t and shouldn’t. My head might explode if this one went down.

  16. Deven

    How have the Spurs won this many games lately, after struggling earlier in the year? And how did they win 61 wins last year with Tim Duncan, TP and Manu aging? What’s Coach Popovichs’ system like?

    • Stephen Litel

      Everyone forgot about the Spurs once again heading into this season, didn’t they? It just goes to show how intelligent basketball players, great coaching and preparation can compete with more athletic and “sexy” teams. Pop’s system? Make the smart and correct play…don’t be flashy…if you do something stupid, you’re gonna sit.

  17. WBT

    What are the likelyhoods of these

    Marvin Williams for Wes and AR

    3 team:
    LAL: Beas/Ridnour/Scola
    HOU: Pau
    MIN: Martin

    Lakers get robbed but does the premise make sense for all? I guess what I am asking is, is it a good building block?

    Would these guys be our answer?

    • Stephen Litel

      Likelihood? Not good.

      I don’t think LA gets “robbed” here, but still think they’d want more. This trade does address a lot of issues for each team though.

  18. Kristina Skiles

    Hey stranger! So what did ya think about that game last night? I dont think I have ever seen such a wierd game! So many turn overs on both sides and the beat up poor love, and what was up with the refs! Also what do you think about Beasly this year? Like to hear your thoughts….

    • Stephen Litel

      Hey Kristina,

      Haven’t seen you at a game for a while…next time you’re around, come say hi!

      Last night’s game was an epic oops moment. Man, Martell Webster made a bad decision at the end of the game and that’s what we’re all stuck with remembering today. It was a hideous game as far as turnovers and sloppy play from both teams and I even tweeted during that this is one of those games that nobody really deserves to win. As far as Beasley, see my answer from earlier.

  19. Jorg Lueke

    Which 2012 free agent SGs or SFs seem like good targets for the Wolves to pursue?

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Jorg!

      Anyone who is capable of doing what I laid out for the position in my earlier answer. Why don’t you tell me who can do all of that?

  20. eddy

    John Salmons is a solid SG-SF who’s a vet, been on playoff teams and still has game. I feel like he might be moved at the trade deadline. My question is, do you think he’ll get moved. I can imagine the T-Wolves, Clippers and Lakers would have some interest.
    T-Wolves need him the most.
    Do you think they could get him for Beasily or a combination of Elington and Randolph/Toliver?

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Eddy,

      Salmons name always seems to come up around the deadline, doesn’t it? He could be an interesting fit in Minny, but I don’t think they would do it for any of the player combos you mentioned above.

  21. Matt

    WHats the deal with the Hornets? Is the league trying to find a “real” owner? I find it hard to believe that there isn’t a rich person out there willing to buy themselves a sports team, even a small market one like NO.

    • Stephen Litel

      Hey Matt,

      I’ve got $5 on me right now…if you have the rest, let’s get a proposal together.

  22. Matt

    I am sure you will get asked about a Beasley getting traded…..but how much does Adelman’s lack of trust in D Williams factor in? Is Adelman just “easing” him in as a rookie, or is he really struggling to grasp the system?

    • Stephen Litel

      Matt,

      Williams is struggling somewhat, but can you blame him…or any rookies who are struggling this year? Your first year playing against the best players in the world and you have to learn everything on the fly with very limited practice time? Who wouldn’t struggle?

      I am not ready to give up on Williams until I’ve seen what he can do after a full season and an off-season to work on some of his biggest weaknesses. THAT’S when you see what a player is really made of.

  23. Matt

    What is Pek’s contract situation? Is he signed for next season?

  24. Matt

    Thoughts on Kobe airing his beef with management publically? I don’t like it and it seems like he is getting away with it because he is Kobe.

    • Stephen Litel

      I actually have no problem with it because I believe he’s correct. It has to be difficult to play and give your all when you’re afraid you may be pulled out of the gym at any time and sent away.

  25. Mark Bacon

    Rondo for Nash. Parts either way to make it work.
    who says no?
    rondo gives phoenix point guard of the future and he can begin to push the pace – which is ruled out with boston ageing squad.
    nash gets play off spot – and gives boston more cap space in the summer – plus with his shooting makes them tougher to guard. thoughts?

    • Stephen Litel

      Boston says no. It’s a lateral move for a much older player.

  26. benny

    Hi Stephen, what do u think of coach MDA on the knicks? I think the only reason he wasn’t fired yet is because of Lin.

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Benny,

      It sure seemed like MDA was on the way out soon without Lin, but good for him for rolling the dice. Now, he earned a bit more time and let’s see how he puts it all together. He has pieces to make some noise and probably will save his job.

  27. Robert

    Hi Stephen,

    With the supposed Gasol talks heating up and Houston being a possible destination for him. Assuming that the reports of Lakers being interested in Beasley. Do you think that TWolves should get in on this trade (if it is to occur)? i.e give up Beasley to the Lakers and receive Courtney Lee from the Rockets?

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Robert,

      Lee would be a nice fit and if all the Timberwolves would have to give up for him is Beasley, I’d do it.

  28. frank

    What are some possible deals Toronto could go after that include Barbosa?

    • Stephen Litel

      Hi Frank,

      Any you can think of. Anything’s “possible.”

  29. Mike

    Who ya got for ROY midway through the season? I personally can’t bring myself to put Rubio over Irving. Rubio has more talent on his team and doesn’t have the insane numbers shooting wise that Kyrie has. Add to the fact that Irving is developing the clutch gene early and I just cant see Ricky as the better rook.

    • Stephen Litel

      Hey Mike,

      Yeah, you pretty much nailed that answer. At this point, you almost have to go with Irving.

      By the way, how weird is it to say the Timberwolves have more talent on their team than another team?

  30. a different matt

    Hey Stephen, quick question on Wilson Chandler… reportedly there was an agreement with his CBA team that if he helped them make the playoffs then he would be given his release… how exactly has this “agreement” benefited Chandler if he still hasn’t received his Letter of Clearance? Couldn’t he just have left the team on his own w/out their blessing and be in the same exact situation?

    • Stephen Litel

      As far as I understand, if he would leave without their blessing…they wouldn’t have to release him from his contract. Therefore, he wouldn’t be able to sign on to play in the NBA until they do so.

  31. Mike

    Anyone willing to trade for Jamison

    • Stephen Litel

      I’m assuming your a Cleveland fan and just want anything to get him out of town?

  32. Ryan

    How about this trade
    Hey Stephen
    Sixers get: Gasol
    Lakers get: Brand, Sessions
    Cavs get: Lavoy Allen Or Sixers First round pick or both?
    What do you think about it or how would you edit it?

    • Stephen Litel

      My edit would be to scratch it out and start completely over….really don’t see how it helps any of the teams, other than the first round picks going to the Cavs.

  33. Ruben

    Hey Stephen, would the Wolves be interested in any combination of trades involving Kevin Martin,and Pekovic?

    • Stephen Litel

      No. As much as they’d love Martin on the team, the Timberwolves would want and need to figure out a way to make it happen without adding Pek into the mix. They’d address one of their areas of need by depleting one of their others. Pek has earned his starting spot in Minny.

  34. eddy

    Kings Get: Johnson and Miller
    Wolves Get: Salmons
    Who says no? Johnson is young and his natural position is SF. (Kings need help at that spot). Miller a crowd favorite reunites in Sac-Town.
    Wolves get their Vet SG who will give leadership and hopefully take them to the playoffs.

    • Stephen Litel

      I understand your logic, Eddy, but Sacramento would want more than this.

  35. Ruben

    How about Pekovic ,and Webstes for Kevin Martin, and Budinger?

    • Stephen Litel

      See above. Pekovic needs to stay. If you can get Martin by any combo of Beas, Johnson and Webster…go for it.

  36. Drew

    Please rate these guys. Martin,Ellis,Mayo,CLee,Morrow,G Henderson. Who would you want and not want.

    • Stephen Litel

      OK, everyone, last question for this week. Hit me up on Twitter to continue the conversation any time @stephenlitel.

      I’m assuming you’re asking me to rate them as far as who I would like on the Timberwolves? If so, I’ll go…

      1. Mayo.
      2. Martin.
      3. Lee
      4. Ellis
      5. Morrow
      6. Henderson

      Great chat this week, everyone! Until next week…