The Morning After The Night Before, XLI

Zany game, isn’t it? Can’t make a shot or get a rebound one night, can’t miss the next and win the battle of the boards. Maybe Sam’s right, maybe it is just a matter of making shots. Everyone feel better today? Some love out there for Bargs. Sure. Today. Until the next time.

Oh, and you all went out into the night and gave your tickets to someone who could really use a slice of pizza today, right?

Here’s our regularly-scheduled stuff.

Three Thing I Learned

Coincidence? I think not.

RICHARD LAUTENS/TORONTO STAR

Pizza!

Did you notice that the two best three-point shooting games, and the two best scoring nights in a month (at Boston, vs. Washington) came when Bargnani got it going? No matter his shortcomings, he’s got to play because on nights he’s even okay from the field it just opens up so many more shots for everyone. Teams have to guard him when he’s on the floor and that creates space.

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Good things happen to good guys

From our department of late bloomers, we give you Roger Mason. Watching him drill three after three last night was cool. Here’s a good guy who kicked around a few years, stuck with it and is now playing a big role on a good team.

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One more Bargs

I swear on one move I saw him dribble with his head up. And the shot fake, two-dribble pull up jumper he hit in the third quarter was a sweet move.

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Okay, here’s why sometimes this job doesn’t suck.

Me and Sun No. 2 are in a cab to the airport in Washington the other morning and we strike up a conversation with the nice man driving. Small talk, mainly, ‘til he asks us what we do and we tell him we’re sportswriters.

"Have you ever heard of Oscar Robertson,” he asks?

Duh, sure, the greatest ever in the opinion of some.

Well, it turns out the driver had some stories. Great stories.

went to high school with Oscar and this might be the best cab ride ever.

The conversation, as I recall it unfolding.

"Oscar was the greatest, went to school with him,” says driver.

"When did you know he’d be great?”

"About the eighth grade, he could shoot your ass off then.”

"Did you play with him?”

"Nah, I was on the reserve team, he was varsity all the way. Did you know he had a brother?”

"Nope, didn’t know that.”

"Yeah, Bailey. Was a good player, too. Uncoachable, though, never made it.”

Wow, I’m thinking, this dude is cool. And then there’s more.

"You ever heard of George McGinnis,” Mr. Driver says.

"Um, yeah, of course. Who hasn’t?”

"Played with him, too; ran him off the playground when he was a kid, clumsy guy, couldn’t play. Guess we were wrong.”

Man, this is cool, I’m thinking.

"You guys see the movie Hoosiers?”

"Who didn’t?”

"I was at that game. Just like in the movie, Milan won, 32-30 and Bobby Plump hits the shot. We called Bobby “Country” back then. Wore a white T-shirt under his jersey. Country could shoot.”

Now we’re at the airport and all I want the dude to do is drive us around for a few hours telling stories.

"I’m retired now, my wife retired from the state department five years ago and I’m driving this cab ‘cause I’ve got to keep our marriage together. Gotta get out of each other’s hair.”

I know that the gentleman, a Mr. Proctor, will never see this but, man, did he make my day.

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Quick hit to the mailbag for a stats thingy:

Nik Wood of Ottawa wonders:

Another blowout win for the Raptors has me wondering if there is some sort of team record for blowout wins in a season. These guys seem to only win by 20 or more. How many have they had?

Interesting you ask. These dudes have now won four games by 30 or more points this year; they won three by 30 or more all of last season. The 39-point win against Washington tied the greatest margin of victory ever in a game (the last was against Atlanta on April 12, 2002).

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A quick tour of the web finds Ivan Carter’s take on Wednesday’s blowout.

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Okay, I’m going to say this once and only once. If the Nets, Portland and Dallas do that mega-deal involving Kidd it may end up that Jamaal Magloire is thrown in as cap ballast and waived.

If that happens, DO NOT SUGGEST THE RAPTORS SIGN HIM.

It is NOT GOING TO HAPPEN.

EVER.

NEVER.

Thanks for listening.

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Mail’s in, again

Q: Hey Doug, it's been bugging me for a while, and I figured I'd go straight to the source.  After each game, you put up the title, The Morning After The Night Before XL (This is 40 in Roman Numerals BTW); but the raptors played 44 games! What happened to the other 4 Mornings After the 4 Nights Before???

Louis K, Richmond Hill

A: Maybe I slept in? Or called ‘em something else? I do know I didn’t start until about Game 3, or Game III, as I recall.

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And, finally, you can forget about watching TV tonight to find out who the all-star reserves are. I’m going to tell you now:

East

Chauncey Billups, Jose Calderon, Chris Bosh, Antawn Jamison, Rip Hamilton, Caron Butler and Paul Pierce.

West

Steve Nash, Chris Paul, Carlos Boozer, Dirk Nowitzki, Marcus Camby, Brandon Roy, Amare Stoudemire.

You’re welcome and good day.

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Remember, it's mailbag day tomorrow. Send 'em here to give me something to do while watching games this evening.

The Morning After The Night Before, Whatever 40 is in Roman numerals

If it’s not Mo Pete, it’s Anthony Parker. Someone, it seems, is going to cause a beat grunt’s stress level to rise substantially whenever we’re in Washington.

JOE GIZA/REUTERS

This one's dedicated to Mo Pete.

Oh, and getting the midnight call from Air Canada that the 9 a.m.' s been cancelled is a real treat, too; but I digress.

Of course, unlike Mo’s circus shot last season, AP’s heave didn’t end up in raucous celebration after an overtime win. But after the way they played, it was probably a just and fair result last night.

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Three Things I Learned

It’s Damon Day

Juan Dixon looked more like a point guard last night than he has in a long time. Great dish to Hump for one dunk and a nifty lead pass in transition to Bosh for another.

But it’s not enough. Today’s the day Damon Stoudamire can sign somewhere and I’m told by Someone Who Knows that Boston may no longer in the mix.

Not sure what that means in the big picture but Toronto’s still in the race. Of course, with Devin Harris hurt in Dallas and Tony Parker on the limp in San Antonio, there are a couple of other big-time teams in the hunt for a point guard.

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Which one is this?

Seven minutes, four missed shots, two rebounds, a foul. Hello, Bad Joey.

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Hold off on the Bargs love

Seventeen minutes, 1-for-6. Maybe that game a week ago in Boston was the aberration. But, Bargnani did have six rebounds – two offensive – so there’s something to build on. But it’s the ones he didn’t get, by forgetting to find the man he was supposed to block out, or by forgetting to actually go after a ball, that was the reason he didn’t play in the second half after getting his fourth foul.

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Quickly to the mail bag:

Q: Tough loss but the 3rd quarter was hideous; Raps did not deserve to win. Just a quick question about the Raptors' chemistry.

When Parker shot went in the bench seemed... well, sorta ho hum glum (especially compared to the mayhem that ensued after Mo Pete's Hail Mary last year).

Between Rasho, Kapono, Barnani, Delfino and Baston, they’re not exactly the spunkiest dinosaurs i've ever seen.

Maybe the guys on the bench aren’t having as much fun because they aren’t playing? (Kapono after the Boston win looked borderline bored). Short version of the question: is there a chemistry problem, or are they just a low key bunch?

John L, Thornhill

A: Bang-on observation. It didn’t look like jubilation at the time and seeing Parker’s shot on TV (it was No. 1 on the ESPN Top 10 this morning), there was happiness but no one seemed over-joyed.

I don’t think there’s a chemistry problem, these guys do genuinely like each other, but they are certainly not the most, um, excitable bunch.

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Now a little public service:

Check out my friends at Canada Basketball here to find out about a significant wheelchair basketball tournament around our parts this weekend.

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More mail and an update:

Q: Just read your comment on the Black Stars taking on Nigeria. I would be willing to make a bet with you if that ever takes place, after growing up in Nigeria, I will live and die by their team.

On to basketball, other than the Mighty Mouse, are there any other veteran point guards out there that the Raptors are looking at? Maybe some that are looking for a contract

Thierry M, Sudbury

A: Fine Sir, unless it’s sanctioned by our government, which apparently has nothing better to do like fix our schools or roads or social ills, gambling is illegal. As I may have mentioned before.

Anyway, on to the guards thing. The only other ones out there are the currently unemployed teeny-tiny Earl Boykins, 30-something Randy Livingston, who’s tearing up the D League and, Earl Watson would like out of Seattle but not sure what Toronto could give to get him.

Of course, Portland’s got about four PGs – Steve Blake, Jarrett Jack, Sergio Rodriguez and the rookie Taurean Green (not to mention Brandon Roy who actually runs the team) – so maybe that’s a place Bryan Colangelo’s looking.

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We beat grunts love the Kiss Cam in various arenas. Stumpy, in particular, has been known to heckle those surprised couples who don’t want to kiss.

But even Stumpy would have given the dude in Washington a break last night. Camera catches two 20-somethings in the crowd and wants them to canoodle or something, growing increasingly hostile when they don’t kiss. Dude turns to the camera and mouths: “She’s my sister.”

Guy got a pass.

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Here’s how the Washington Post played last night’s déjà vu game.

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Another dip into the mail:

Q: I have to say I was surprised, if not shocked, to hear say that it would be 'very cool' to see Darrell Walker sitting next to Byron Scott at the ASG. Now while at the time, we didn't have Chuck, Grange (TM) and yourself giving as much insight into Walker as we get about Sam Mitchell these days via your daily blogs, but I always pictured him as a villain in Toronto for his treatment of McGrady during his early years.

Now, I'm convinced T-Mac would have left Toronto regardless, but i'm sure Walker's seemingly personal vendetta against him (benching him after a windmill drunk, not playing him while having a 16 win roster, etc.) probably didn't have Tracy eager to do the organization any favors, like for starters, letting Grunwald know that he had no interest in signing an extension so he could be traded instead of being lost for nothing (like he did with Orlando).

So putting that blip aside then, got any stories that would make us happy to see Walker by Byron Scott's side?

Marino F, Richmond Hill

A: Well, not sure how old you are or how long you’ve been around these parts but D Walk did coach ‘em to 30 wins in Year 2 and that did give the folks a few things to be happy about.

Oh, and he finally got Benoit Benjamin out of the NBA. Great end to Ben’s career. He’s loafing through a drill, Darrell’s all over him and finally Ben snaps, says something along the lines of “bleep you, you bleep-bleeped, bleeper.”

That’s about 1:10 one afternoon, by 1:30, after Darrell runs him out of the gym, Isiah’s got him on waivers.

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So, I asked Sam after shootaround when, and why, he decides to play zone defence every now and then.

His answer:

"It’s just a game-by-game decision, who’s on the floor and how we’re doing. If I look out there and see matchups I’m not crazy about, I may play some zone.”

My thought:

Oh, you mean when Jason Kapono’s out there.

Dribs and drabs on a rainy D.C. morn

So, Byron Scott coaches New Jersey to the NBA Finals twice and gets whacked. Now he’s in New Orleans and likely to coach the Western Conference in next month’s all-star game?

That’s a rather big turnaround, no?

It’ll be cool for Byron to coach, it’ll be very cool for some of us to see Darrell Walker sitting next to him.

D Walk may not have been the greatest coach in the world when he was in Toronto (he might not have been the greatest coach in Toronto when he was in Toronto) but he wasn’t a bad guy and it’ll be nice to see a lifer get a weekend in the spotlight.

Best Darrell story: He would run rather, um, light practices. Guys were injured, guys weren’t that good, and Darrell’s not a workaholic. The media hotline we use to check practice generally says stuff like, “practice at 11, media encouraged to be there by 12.”

Well, with Darrell, we have expected to hear, “practice is at 10, media encouraged to be there by 9:45.”

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So, am sitting in this establishment Monday night in D.C., about to tuck into another Yeungling and perhaps an appetizer and check out Oklahoma-Oklahoma State on the tube. Comely waitress wanders over, clicker in hand, and switches from basketball to the State Of The Freaking Union! With the volume up.

This is an industry town for sure.

Oh, and if we’ve got any American readers, can I just ask one question: Can you elect some dude or dudette with a wee bit of personality this time around? Man, Dubya is as far from dynamic as you can get.

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You’ve got to scroll through a whole bunch of Gilbert Stream of Consciousness to get to it, but Agent Zero takes what looks like a wee shot at Jamario Moon in his latest blog.

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Know how we all talk about defensive “stoppers” and the like? Well, Sam says they don’t exist and makes a pretty good point.

Here’s Free Form Sam from practice Monday:

"You’re not guarding guys one-on-one in the NBA, you’re not guarding LeBron James one-on-one.

"Understand something, a great offensive player? I’m not worried about you, I’m looking through you to those other four guys and where they are. I’m not looking at you.

"I can beat you.

"I didn’t worry about one guy guarding me most nights. It was those other three, four guys behind him. Was it a shot-blocker? Were they in help position. Where were they? Did I have a shooter on this side so if I beat my guy, I know this guy was going to have to stay so I have a driving lane?

"You’re not guarding guys in the NBA today, with the rules, one-on-one. I can’t put my hands on you, how am I going to guard you? Derek Harper would put that claw on you and make you go where he wanted you to go. He wouldn’t let you go. That’s why they changed the rules.

"You can’t guard guys one-on-one.”

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Let’s get into the mailbag

Q: On Jan. 27 I receive an email from a friend. At the end of this email it states 1-0, for him of course. Yes, he made it into your mailbag, and was even the weekly ding ding ding winner (a very prestigious honour).

A few of us are heading to New Jersey on April 5th for the game. I'm completely over VC, but it is still very fun to be loud, annoying, and obnoxious and yell obscenities at him. I would be bitterly disappointed if he happened to be traded by that point in time. What are the chances he's with the Nets on that day?

I know you said earlier he is going to be hard to move, and the more likely on his way out is Kidd. But are the Nets really going to pay this guy for another three years? Surely, they can find someone stupid enough to take on his contract.

Mike S, Georgetown

A: Tie game.

But only ‘cause of the topic.

I sure looks now like you’ll see Vince but not Kidd. And if you go next year you’ll see Vince and not Kidd. And if you go the year after you’ll see Vince and not Kidd.

With a $60 million contract and diminishing skills and a lessening impact on games, I cannot see a GM out there bailing out Rod Thorn. Maybe in the last year of his deal, Carter can get traded but until then? No way.

For all the dirt on what’s going on with the Nets, here’s what Dave D had to report today.

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Today’s Washington Post report will be wildly interesting to the Dave Hopla lovers back home.

And, once again, I don't think his departure from Toronto has anything to do with any perceived failings in the shooting department. Here are the numbers: Last year, Toronto shot 46.3 from the field and 77.8 from the line; this year it's 45.7 and 81.0. Last year, Washington shot 45.0 from the field and 76.5 from the line; this year, it's 44.9 from the field and 79.5 from the line.

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Oh, Black Stars 2, Morocco 0!

We’re on to the Final Eight of the Nation’s Cup. Get Mali or Nigeria on Monday. Wonder if it’s Nigeria if I can get wee wager going with Masai Ujiri?

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Let’s check the mailbag one more time.

Q: From the cozy confines of snowless Victoria, it seems that not even the balmy breezes here can match the warmth that flows towards Bryan Colangelo. This makes sense to me. He's assembled an exciting team of international players with limited egos that everyone can get on board with.

But no one's perfect, right? What are Mr. Colangelo's biggest three blunders since taking over the helm of The Good Ship Dinosaur?

Chris R, Victoria

A: It’s all in degrees, there really haven’t been any huge blunders, I don’t think.

I’ll give you three things they probably could have done without:

Fred Jones, although he turned him into Juan Dixon.

Maceo Baston, good guy but it’d be nice to have that roster spot and te little bit of money.

Not convincing Garbo, somehow, to take last summer off.

That’d be about it right off the top of my head.

All-time question, all-time team; and Bargs likes his rest

I’m going to go right to the mail ‘cause this one’s really good and sure to spark some discussion.

Q: This is my first time writing to your all-sarcastic blog, so please, I wonder, give me a top 5 lineup, active or inactive that would dominate the basketball world for all-time. Be free to make fun of me and any of my questions in any way you feel like.

Matt F, Mississauga

A: Make fun? Man, this is one of the greatest questions ever. Can you imagine the bar conversation you could have on this one? In fact, I may try to start one some night this week.

Here’s a stream of consciousness answer:

You’ve got to take Bill Russell, right? But that means leaving out Wilt and Shaq? Oh yeah, and you’re bypassing Kareem and Hakeem, too? If you don’t have Oscar Robertson on that team it’s not a team worth having and if you take Michael and Magic, what do you do with Larry? Is it Tim Duncan or George Mikan or maybe Malone? If you’re looking at point guards, though, how can you not say Isiah or maybe Stockton?

Red Auerbach’s gotta coach, right? Or Phil?

I guess you just blur the backcourt positions a bit and you take Magic and Michael and The Big O with Duncan and Russell and you never, ever lose a game. And then you get a big old box of cigars and let Red have his fun.

Is that a good enough team for you?

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Sure, they are just Games 44 and 45 of 82 and nary a Raptor is likely to publicly admit it, but Tuesday and Wednesday are statement games for sure.

Back-to-back with Washington? Half-game lead on the Wizards in the middle of the East? White-hot from going 8-2 in their last 10?

Yeah, now we find out a bit of what these guys are made of.

Games set up badly – if you want to sweep a home-and-home you always want to start at home but these guys have already won at Boston, San Antonio and New Orleans so it’s not as if the road really kills them.

It’s going to be a good test of their defence, too. Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison are precisely the kind of multi-talented forwards these guys have a hard time guarding.

It’s not often you get really jazzed about regular season games at this time of year but these two are special.

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Spent an entirely delightful day with the good folks of the Ontario Basketball Association on Sunday for their symposium on where the game is today and where it’s got to go.

Aside from coming away thinking Maurizio Gherardini and Masai Ujuri should take their comedy act on the road – and catching up with national women’s team coach Allison McNeil – the feeling is that the game in the province is in good hands.

I think they know they have to teach the kids skills more than anything, they’ve got to get aspiring great players in the gym more often and everyone seems to be going in the right direction.

Was a good day of good discussion.

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So, Chris Webber’s coming back, likely to Golden State, as my friend Janny Hu reports, where he can torment Nellie a little bit more and as I’m watching the ESPN the other day and seeing Our Man Jalen doing his schtick it strikes me that The Rose is probably on the phone trying to resurrect his career today.

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Here’s a stat for you:

In games after three days rest, Andrea Bargnani averages 15.7 points per game and shoots 44 per cent from the field.

In games with one days rest, he averages 7.9 points per game and shoots 37 per cent.

As a comparison, Chris Bosh averages 20 points a game with three days rest and 23.3 with one day off.

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Speaking of the Wizards, here’s how Sunday’s loss to Milwaukee played in the papers down there.

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Manjit in Ajax wonders:

Is there any coaching staff in the league that could challenge the Raps coaches in a game of 4-on-4? Sam Mitchell rebounding; Alex English scoring; Mike Evans at the point; and Jay Triano to knock down perimeter shots?

That’s a pretty good team.

I’d like to see a round robin against Detroit (Michael Curry, Terry Porter, Dave Cowens and maybe Flip Saunders can run the point) and Lakers (Brian Shaw, Kurt Rambis, Jim Cleamons and a hobbled but tough Phil Jackson).

Maybe we could get that in the all-star game.

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You’ve got to give Canada Basketball some props for this one.

Sunday was Family Literacy Day and the group’s got a bunch of things going on in conjunction with ABC Canada.

There is nothing more important than reading – and reading about basketball can be pretty cool – so I’m going to suggest you check out Canada Basketball’s website to see what their reading initiative is all about.

And read. Read lots. Get your kids to read. A lot.

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Let’s get into the mailbag for a couple:

Q: A Basketball 101 question for you: Can you please explain the idiosyncrasies of the loose ball foul? I get most of the other finer points of the game, but I try to call the loose balls (i.e. who they are going to get called against), I'm almost always wrong!

Stephen B, Burlington

A: I guess the easiest way to explain it is it’s a foul committed when no team has possession of the ball. On a rebound, for instance, when someone pushes off; when someone goes to intercept a pass and knocks someone over.

It’s there to distinguish between an offensive foul (which is not a team foul; nor does it create free throws) and a run-of-the-mill foul.

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Q: Do you think this year's dunk contest might be a popularity contest instead of a real talent show? Fans are allowed to vote who they think should win, and I know that there are people who are neutral and will vote for who they thought was most impressive, but there will be people who are bias and will vote for their favourite out of the four regardless of what they showcase.

Sam C, Kingston

A: Yes, that’s what’s going to happen and that’s precisely why I think Jamario Moon will win because no one does the internet better, and more zealously, than Raptor fans.

Sunday's special delivery

Another full week of queries. Glad I don't have a life and can spend a huge chunk of Saturday and Sunday morning answering them.

Q: I'm having a hard time getting this through people’s heads, maybe you can help. A message to all fans:
It's not about which point guard starts or finishes the game. It doesn't matter who scores and who assists. The only thing that matters is that at the end of the game this team gets a W instead of an L. SO STOP COMPLAINING!!!!!!!!!

Phew, now I feel better.

Mark M, Toronto

A: Ding! Ding! Ding!

I should start every single mailbag with this letter.

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Q: How great was that game (Wednesday) night?  Forget the turnovers, difference in offensive rebounds, or the Celtics shooting percentage.  The final minutes of the game were ridiculously exciting and at the end of it a hush came over the entire crowd and I was left standing and cheering like that guy in those Proline ads. A couple profanities were thrown in my direction, some in Spanish, but I just assumed they were praising Jose. I never felt all that threatened, and I was wondering which arena in the league you think is the most hostile to opponent's fans?

Mark E, Boston

A: I’d put Detroit right at the top of the list. I only get to the western cities once a year so can’t really attest to the venom out there but I’d put Sacramento on the list, too.

Other Eastern cities: Maybe Cleveland, and the folks in New York, when the Knicks are good, can be vociferous.

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Q: Doug, there's obviously plenty of basketball to be played. That said, I really do think that 'Tier 2' of the Eastern Conference has been established for this season, and that seeds 3 through 6 will be some permutation of the Raps, Cavs, Magic and Wiz. The rest of the East is playing for the right to sneak in and face Boston or Detroit.

>Do you agree with me that this four-team 'Tier 2' is a lock for the middle seeds? If so, how do you like the Raps' chances against those three possible first-round opponents?

Mike D, Toronto

A: I absolutely see it like that, I don’t think anyone below those four can creep up – although you’ve got to think Chicago will finally make a trade to make them better – and no one’s catching Boston or Detroit.

And I think the Raptors can beat – or be beaten by – any of those four teams. I think they’d like to get Orlando first, Washington second and Cleveland third but they would feel confident – justifiably – against any of them.

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Q: I don't get to watch the games down here in SoCal, but I do follow them live on NBA.com and yahoo NBA, and occasionally catch them on the radio over the net. That being said I only can judge player performance so much, mostly by stats sheets. It doesn't appear that poor Kapono gets much of a chance to contribute. Has he played himself out of favor or is it just bad luck because others are playing better?

Scott S, Orange County, Calif.

A: Kapono’s probably not getting as many shots as many thought he would but it’s a matter of others playing better some nights and getting more minutes. But I assume there will be a night or two like the one in Indy when he had 29 points and virtually won the game himself.

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Q: A Basketball 101 question. In the Celtics game, there is almost one pass Toronto almost threw the ball away. But AP was able to get a pushing foul from Celtics. I remember before the foul happened, there was only three seconds left for the shot clock. But when the ball was inbounded, the shot clock was reset to 13. Why did the officials put more time to the shot clock?

Leroy C, Waterloo

A: You must have blinked. On a reset following a foul, the shot clock is set at 14 seconds.

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Q: Doug am I crazy for thinking that the free-agent frenzies of the previous decade are going to become extinct? Considering the amount of NBA talent that skipped on paydays or took 'make-good' contracts this year due to a few select overpaid contracts (see: Rashard Lewis) you have to believe that patience and cap management will reign in the traditional stupidity of free agent spending.

I don’t know what the numbers are but I would imagine it would be something like 1:5 or 1:10 contracts at or exceeding mid-level being anything but a total flop.

With the glut of mid-level types (especially restricted - Calderon and Delfino included) one has to assume that an increased supply decreases demand.

Ryan L, Calgary

A: I agree you’re going to see a lot more shorter term contracts for free agents and I think both sides might like that. Owners, if they had their way, would like nothing more than two-year deals so they don’t lock up money long-term and as we’ve seen with the likes of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, players are willing to take shorter deals so they can get more of them over the course of their careers.

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Q: Hey Doug, it's your friendly neighbourhood Londoner back again. Your pleading for e-mails tugged a heartstring so I'll give it a go. What are your thoughts on the possibility of us acquiring a big man this off-season are? I have read somewhere recently that Fran Vazquez may consider playing for Toronto. What’s the deal with him and Orlando and would they consider moving him with some other piece for say Graham-Dixon?

Leon R, London, UK

A: Ah, London, full of friendly neighbourhood sorts, I’m told.

Vasquez is an interesting one. I’m not sure, despite his lofty draft status, that he’s going to be an impact player in the NBA if, or when, he comes.

My Spanish spies say he’s okay, but nothing special.

I do think the Magic will be amenable to a trade but their most glaring need right now is a point guard and Toronto doesn’t have one to offer.

As for an off-season big man acquisition? I’m pretty sure that’ll be on the top of Colangelo’s list as he goes shopping with his mid-level exception. I’d bet he addresses his PG issue first between now and the trade deadline and, if he can’t pull off a second deal, he goes looking for bigs in July.

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Q Doug, what's the cheapest shot you've ever seen in a game?

Craig W, Halifax

A: Wow, tough one. Personally witnessed? Involving the Raptors? Hmm, the one that comes to mind is Bruce Bowen sliding his foot under Vince Carter when Carter was in the air taking a jump shot. Had to be six, seven years ago?

I’m sure others will eventually come to mind but that’s the one with this team I recall quickly.

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Q: Two questions, somewhat to do with TV broadcasts:

First, have we reached the end of 'niceness' yet? Why is everyone 'nice?' Every time Chuck or his broadcasting cohort mentions this, that or the other NBA player, coach, manager or whomever, the inevitable gets tacked on: "And you know what? He is the nicest guy you could ever meet, a true gentleman," etc. ad nauseum. You could play a drinking game with this schtick, it's gotten so cliched. Is nobody out there not nice? I'm tired of nice!

Second,I’d like to start keeping a tally of every time that the Raps are down by 15 near the end of the third or beginning of the fourth and Chuck says, inevitably, "there's still a lot of time left." They inevitably lose, of course. Chuck's cursing them when he says that! Stop it!

Don R, Stratford

A: Nice of you to write.

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Q: With all this all-star talk, let’s throw in something from the left field. Let me be the first to vote for a 1-on-1 competition during the skill competition. From reading your insight into the Raptors practices, it seems players (sometimes even coaches) like to do a little 1-on-1 at the end of practices. I am pretty sure this is common to most NBA team ‘cause even player from my church basketball team does this often. Can we count on you to get this on the discussion topic for next year All-Star Game?

Ronald C, Toronto

A: Believe it or not, the people who organize all-star weekend don’t usually ask me what should be part of the festivities. Besides, I’m too busy trying to get Anthony and Candace Parker and Sam in the guy-girl-old dude shooting contest next year.

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Q: When Chris Bosh came into the league, he was compared to both Jermaine O'Neal and KG. It looks like he's become a better player than O'Neil already. But what separates KG from CB4? They're physically similar, and though Bosh might have a slightly better offensive game, he's light-years behind KG defensively.

Joe L, Toronto

A: Intensity and experience. That’s the difference. I don’t imagine we’ll see another KG for a very, very long time.

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Q: Every chance that I get to see the Raptors play I don't see Rasho playing a lot of minutes. With the way Bargs is playing I would like to see Rasho get starter minutes. Otherwise they should trade him and his $8 million. What are your thoughts?

Patrick C, Ottawa

A: There will be a time in the playoffs when they will need the defence and experience that Rasho brings and fans will be glad he didn’t get traded.
That said, he’s looking fine now in a limited backup role, which is a good one for him.

I presume his name will be bandied about in trade talks but, unless they get someone with his experience back, they need to hang on to him for the playoffs, when games get tougher and slower and you need a solid big defender.

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Q: Doug, doesn’t it seem like Jamario fails to recognize that a lot of defenders cannot handle his first step? Do you think this is a confidence taking it to the hoop issue that can be changed without Sam having to taser him??

Eric P, Mississauga

A: It’s got something to do with confidence and it’s got something to do with the fact the easiest play is generally a jumper. Sam with a taser? Wow, wouldn’t that be something? He’d be hitting us, and players and the odd fan. Very cool.

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Q: The way Chris Bosh has been playing of late, he deserves to be considered one of the best players in the NBA. Let's focus more on his position though. Besides Kevin Garnett, do you think Chris Bosh is the best power forward in the East? I certainly can't think of anyone else who comes close to him... well maybe Rasheed Wallace when he's at his best but he's way too inconsistent. Bosh will also get the honors of being the player of the month for January if he keeps this up.

Philippe A, Ottawa

A: I’d say right now he’s definitely the second-best power forward in the East and third-best in the league (behind KG and Tim Duncan). Rasheed would be in the conversation if he tried to dominate games like the other three every night.

Player of the month? I’m certain he’ll get consideration and it’d be a perfect set-up to his inclusion on the Eastern all-star team on Thursday night.

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Q: With all this talk that's been circulating around the alleged PG controversy in Toronto, what do you think the chances are that Bryan Colangelo try to resign Jose before the end of the season? Colangelo has already publicly stated that he would match any offer for Jose, so why not try to seal the deal before that even happens?

Marianne D, Toronto

A: Couple of reasons. I’m sure Jose’s agents think it’s in his best interest to wait to see what’s out there this summer and, under the convoluted NBA salary cap rules, extensions for guys like Jose can’t be signed during the season.

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Q: What's Kapono's trade value like?  While we seem to have three players with his skill set (Parker, Delfino and of course him). I'm sure there are teams who could use a 3-point specialist of his ilk.  Put him in a package with Joey perhaps?

Fergal M, Kingston

A: I’m not sure they’re even thinking about seeing what the market is like for the second-best three-point shooter in the league this year. I agree there’s a glut of players with pretty much the same skills – and that might mean his name does come up when teams come calling – but I think right now they’d rather hang on to him. Parker’s age is a factor, as is the fact Delfino will be a restricted free agent this summer.

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Q: Yo Doug, love the blog. A paint question and comment. A fairly frequent occurrence this year is to have the Raps lost the stat battle on points in the paint. When someone is fouled in the paint and makes the foul shots, do those count as points in the paint? Or are foul shots just not field goals and not counted? Not that we get to the line enough to tip the balance, but just curious.

I remember watching Sonics local broadcasts many moons ago with Kevin Calabro, a great play-by-play guy. And now that I think of it, he's bald, too. What's with follicly-challenged play by play guys? Swirsky? Shulman? Anyway, the points in the paint were sponsored by Dutch Boy, a surprise, surprise, paint company. Yo, MLSE sponsorship team - get Debbie Travis on line 2.

Wayne L, East York

A: Nah, it’s just baskets that count as points in the paint, not free throws.

Now, you want MORE SPONSORSHIP? Man, you should send MLSEL a resume.

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Q: Doug, just looking at the last minute of the Raptors-Celtics game, I counted 5 fouls committed by KG (including a nice elbow screen on Calderon on the last play). Which 5 players currently playing get the most star calls?

Greg W, Toronto

A: If you ask the players, or the refs, no one “gets” calls. The perception, which is the reality as a wise man once said, is different.

I’d guess the list would be just as you’d think: LeBron, Wade, Kobe, KG and McGrady when he plays.

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Q: What exactly is the kicked ball rule? I've seen a few players get burned on it when the ball smacks off their leg while they've been facing the other way and didn't see it coming.
So if a player doesn't have a good look with the shot clock expiring can he just wing it off an opposing player's foot to get a fresh 14?

Joel S, Toronto

A: If you saw that, it was a blown call. It’s supposed to be any time a defender deflects, kicks or contacts a ball with his foot. If, as you say, an offensive player deliberately throws a ball off a defenders’ foot, that wouldn’t be called.

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Q: Hi Doug, it's been a while since you humbled one of my trade ideas and me being a glutton for punishment, I thought I'd send along another - if Joel Przybilla is apparently being offered around, should the Raptors be interested? I remember a few years back there was interest in signing him, but it never happened. I see him as a serviceable big off the bench who can teach Bargnani a few things about playing gritty.

Bill L, Toronto

A: There was indeed some interest in Joel Przybilla a couple of years back but Rasho arrived and it dissipated quickly. He’s got three years and about $20 million left on his deal but he is the kind of shot-blocking, rebounding presence these guys could use.

I’d presume if Bryan’s talking to Kevin Pritchard in Portland about, say, Sergio Rodriquez, the name Joel Przybilla would enter the conversation.

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Q: PJ Brown is a veteran who would seem to be the type of player who could provide some rebounding help. The problem is he's sitting at home even though teams are offering him deals. Aside from him willing to play, what kind of money would it take to get him? Have you heard what teams are offering him?

Damian W, Calgary

A: I haven’t heard for sure, but I imagine teams are offering him the veteran’s minimum, which is just over $1 million for a guy with his experience. I can’t imagine anyone throwing a multi-year deal at him.

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Q: Now, trust me, you are my boy, but for a guy with so much self proclaimed sardonic whit and snark you sure seem to miss it when it hits you in the face. Of course I am referring to a question I posed to you in last Sunday’s mailbag about the Raptors needing a physical presence and suggesting the 'Great One' should bring back Laimbeer, or Mahorn.

Just in case the riggers of the road have left you a little absent minded. It's obvious that I did not intend to insinuate we need an enforcer rather a physical presence. Someone who has an edge on a team that has no edge and no real physical presence. This is a common commodity among championship teams. Ben Wallace, Rasheed, Robert Horry, heck even Udonis Haslem.

Jef M, St. Catharines

A: Whew! And here I thought you were being serious. As the Great Man says, d’oh!

A physical presence never hurts, but the dude has to be able to play, too. I’m a big Kurt Thomas fan in that role, actually. And maybe if Garbo comes back, he’s that man.

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Q: With talk about finding the "Bryan Colangelo of hockey" for the Maple Leafs, I was wondering if there is a "John Ferguson of basketball" in the NBA. Some youngish GM with little GM experience, and meddling ownership. Does such an unfortunate soul exist?

Francesco P, Richmond Hill

A: You know what? I looked over the list of GMs and owners and can’t find a youngish one. I guarantee you, though, that Elgin Baylor of the Clippers wished Donald Sterling would mind his own business.

The young guys like Kevin Pritchard in Portland are being left to their own devices. I’m sure there are “creative differences” between owners and GMs in a few cities, it’s just that they don’t get out in public too often.

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Q: Hey Doug, got a cap question that I'm tired of surfing for. FAQ it is not. Thought I'd let you or one of your underlings take a crack at it. What happens when a player is suspended for the rest of the year?  He isn't getting paid any money, right? So does his 'salary' (that is not occurring) count towards a team's salary cap?

Hudson P, Windsor

A: Dude, my underlings are in my imagination, unfortunately.

Even in the case of suspension, when the guy’s not getting any money (like, say, Ron Artest) his salary still goes against the cap.

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Q: Despite a constantly jammed upper deck, it always appears on TV that the Raptors don't draw much of a crowd because of the many unused red, gold and platinum seats visible to viewers.

Are the rows of empty seats in the lower bowl a case of unsold tickets that are overpriced, or are they more a case of corporate seasons tickets going unused?

Either way, its a shame that there are thousands of fans that would love to be down there supporting the team but either cant afford it, or don’t have the chance to buy the good seats.

Dave G, Toronto

A: You’re checking too early in each half. Those platinum seats get filled up, but only after the high-rollers get back from their cushy suites a few whistles into the half.

And the reds? Behind the baskets? Those are generally the seats that determine whether the game’s going to be a sellout or not. If they’re filled, the rest of the arena is, too.

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Q: What the hell is this plus/minus business in basketball? What is this, hockey? Can you share your wisdom and explain?

Navin V, Toronto

A: It’s a made-up stat that’s now in vogue because the league puts it in boxscores on nba.com. Personally, I think it’s mostly useless but I’m sure I’ll hear from people who don’t.

And it is what you’d think it is. Add up points scored when Player A is on the court against points given up and you got that guy’s plus-minus.

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Q: Two questions:
1: Could you update us on the draft situation? Do the Raps have any picks?  Did they trade them away? Do they have anyone else's?

2: What is the all-star game worth to players? To me the game is a joke, I never watch, and it seems like the voting is a popularity contest, rather than an actual measure of player's skill.

Michael M, London

A: They have their own first-round pick right now but their second-round pick went to San Antonio for the great Giorgos Printezis. There are a couple of options remaining on second-round picks from New Orleans as part of the Aaron Williams deal way back when.

The all-star game? The game itself takes on a traditional form. A show for three quarters and things get serious. The players tired of all the extracurricular stuff they've got to do on the weekend, media, appearances, etc., but the game's sort of a respite from the other stuff and they don't mind actually playing, as far as I can discern.

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Q: I have a question regarding Hump. The Araujo for Hump trade was without a doubt a good move for the Raps. Does that mean a bad move for the Jazz? Does Kevin O’Connor, or whoever the GM was at the time, get any slack for that move? Thanks a bunch

Matthew M, Scarborough

A: That trade, when it happened, was nothing-for-nothing so I can’t imagine anyone thought O’Connor made a bad move. And even today, with Hump playing a bit here and Araujo in Russia, I don’t imagine Utah fans are the least bit upset.

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Q: I understand that you were the author of Damon Stoudamire's biography, 'Airborne.' Given that fact, and with all the talk about Stoudamire possibly joining the Raps if he is released by Memphis, what was the reason Stoudamire left Toronto in the first place. My recollection of the events surrounding the trade to Portland aren't very good, and I was wondering if you had any inside scoop for us.

Derek R, Toronto

A: Well, not sure if the possibility is legit – it’s Boston or Toronto as you see in today’s paper – but there is a slim chance he comes back.

The reasons he left? Lots of ‘em. His benefactor, Isiah Thomas, was gone; the team was wretched; ownership was a mess; he wasn’t going to re-sign as a free agent; they figured they could get something for him.

Lots of a legitimate reasons, at the time.

The Morning After The Night Before, XXXVIII

That was a bit of a stinker, no? Sure, they win by 31 and everyone goes home happy, the memories of 112-85 are forgotten. But it really wasn’t a gem.

Anyway, gotta be quick today, it’s basketball day for Super Son pretty soon.

Three Things I Learned

A tough play

Watching Andrea Bargnani have Mo Williams on his back on the baseline early, it struck one as a perfect opportunity for the big guy to take the little guy in the post and punish him. Then, when Williams fell down and was lying at Andrea’s feet, it looked like there was a clear path to the basket.

But instead of simply stepping over him and driving, the Big Soph stood, hoisted a 17-foot airball and angst ruled.

So goes the education of a young player.

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Bucks change coming?

You probably didn’t see him, and likely wouldn’t have recognized him if you did. But Milwaukee GM Larry Harris was in the building last night and he couldn’t have liked what he saw. It looked like a total give up by the Bucks in the third quarter.

Word around the league is that Harris is on thin ice; games like last night certainly can’t help his cause. Here's how the game looked from the Milwaukee perspective.

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Rasho’s quick hands

Do you think Rasho’s the king of the tap-back offensive rebound? Did it twice Friday night, giving the Raptors the kind of extra possessions they usually give up rather than get.

I’m telling you know, if Rasho’s still here come playoff time, he’s going to be hugely valuable. He’s got the size, experience and savvy to help anchor halfcourt defences and that’s what you need in the post-season.

I asked one of the zillion ex-Raptor assistants on the Milwaukee staff what he thought of Rasho and the answer was quick: “Smartest guy on the team.”

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On to other things

You people are great. In the mailbag yesterday, I joked that I needed a research tandem and what do I get? A handful of offers. All of ‘em are greatly appreciated, you fine folks, but it’s not in the Star’s budget and it’s certainly not in mine.

But if I do need help, I know I can ask.

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Got an e-mail shortly after the game from Noah in Toronto, suggesting something that’s been suggested here before but something that should be said more often.

All you fans reading this, go to your pocket, dig out your ticket stub, walk outside and find someone down on their luck.

Give them the ticket, point ‘em to Pizza Pizza and tell them to go have lunch on you.

You’ll feel better. And so will they. And that promotion will have actually done some good.

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Quick trip to the mailbag

Q: Since so many of you talked about the Celtic game, I also want to express my view and have your thoughts. The Raps really played great to win the game, but just don't get overjoyed. You won't have many games that you can shoot over 70% from the 3 and you can seldom win giving up so many offensive boards and points off turnovers to get out with a W. And House could have won that game with that open look while Allen could have tied it with the buzzer beater. So they got some luck on this one! But we do have to give credit for them for staying close. But if we meet the Celtics in the playoff, it’s hard to beat them 4 times to advance. Your thoughts?

Yiu W, Markham

A: It’s going to be hard to beat Boston four times in seven games regardless of what happened on Wednesday night. But if they do shoot 70 per cent from the three and are perfect from the line four times, they will win that series.

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Remember, there’ll be a bonus mailbag tomorrow. A perfect way to spend a Sunday morning, I think.

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Speaking of mail …

Q: Do the Raps still have that three-point streak? If so, how many games is it at now. I remember Chuck Swirsky used to always mention it each game but that was a few years ago when they had nothing else good to talk about.

Peter H, Elgin

A: Oh, they most certainly do. It’s at 738 and counting after Friday night.

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And one more before we’re off to Mississauga Monarchs house league basketball for Super Son’s weekly game.

Q: Representing for the ladies here! Just hoping you could enlighten us on any trade rumours you've been hearing (both for the Raps and the rest of the league).

Marianne D, Toronto

A: Love the representing the ladies, thanks.

Rumours are pretty quiet right now, the big one floating out there was the Nocioni-to-New Jersey talk earlier in the week. And with Jermaine O’Neal hurt and Kobe happy in L.A., those are two big names you might not be hearing about anymore.

I guarantee you there will be all kinds of rumours about the free-falling Nets. Check out how my man Dave D’Alessandro summed up last night’s debacle.

I bet the next big rumour surrounds Tracy McGrady and I bet it’s got Chicago as his destination.

But don’t worry, when we get some juicy ones, you folks will be the first to know.

A very hefty mailbag, again

You crazies are at it again. More questions than you can shake a stick at. So many that we’ll have another bonus mailbag sometime on the weekend ‘cause I like nothing better than answering your queries (well, that’s a fib, but maybe it makes you feel a bit better).

Anyway, here we go:

Q: I see the your amiable desire to bring the Mighty Mouse back to Toronto, but I still believe that Sam Cassell would be a better upgrade to man the point for the Raptors. What's his contract situation, and could BC and Sam Mitchell work out the possibility of getting his service? Another thing, Doug, in your 13 years covering the league, what do you think is the Raptors' chance of having an NBA championship banner raised in our home turf, if we were able to keep Billups (1), Carter (2), McGrady (3), and Camby (5), to play along side with Bosh (4)?

By the way, for a guy "who asked too many questions," I don't really know who Diana T. of Mississauga is. Maybe we can be a tandem doing investigative or research works for you ... and if she concurs, a case each of your favorite adult beverages would be enough to compensate us.)

Rikki C, Burlington

A: Sammy’s contract is worth about $6 million this and expires, which makes him quite attractive on the market, I’d think.

As for that lineup, I don’t know if it’d would have won an NBA championship but in the East, it sure would have played for a couple.

Oh, and you and Diana both sent in very long, question-filled questions a week or so ago, as I recall. The comment was a bit of a joke. Research tandem? I can always use a researcher or two. And if the cost is adult beverages, well, so be it.

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Q: Hello again Doug, I have so many thoughts and questions rattling around my brain, so here are two topics I’d like your opinion on that have had me wondering and stewing for a long while:

Is there an approximate age or years of experience that an NBA player typically reaches his peak? And is it different dependent on position? I guess what I'm asking is, when we can reasonably anticipate the combo of TJ/CB/Bargs (and Calderon?) to be able to collectively take the Raptors from playoff guests to legitimate contenders-at least in the East? Or is it a matter of years of experience playing together?

And, I have no respect for the Celtics. Their arrogance and trash-talking style is infuriating. Seeing scrubs like James Posey, Tony Allen, Eddie House and Kendrick Perkins (who is suddenly a tough guy?-I laugh) acting so irreverently makes my blood boil. I think for that reason, more than any other, I am so thrilled that the Raps beat the Celts on their court. Good for Doc for calling them out after the game in NY. If the Raptors players acted that way, I'd be happy about their record, but I certainly wouldn’t be proud of their conduct.  As for Paul Pierce – who was part of the problem in years previous – management needed to bring in not one, but 2-top caliber players to bail him out, and he still has the gall to behave like he does? Please. Contrast him with Bosh, who, after being surrounded with largely unproven players, was able to power the Raptors into taking a huge leap forward last year. I’d take the Raps guys over the Celts punks any time.

Diana T, Mississauga.

A: Hey look, Rikki. It’s Diana. Those are some cool thoughts rattling around in that brain of yours.

I don’t know that there’s a number of years, I do know anecdotally that it takes centres and point guards longer to learn the nuances of the game. If I had to put an age on it, I’d say five or six years in the league has player about to enter his prime and that could last another five or six years. And I think it takes about three years, maybe four, for true cohesion – the kind the Spurs have, or the Pistons – to develop around teammates.

Interesting comments on the Celtics, too; I assure you they are shared by many around the league.

On the Bosh-Pierce? I think Bosh is more of a leader in the locker room and on the court and probably less interested in numbers than Pierce might be. That being said, I’m not around Pierce every day and am just going on my own opinion from far afield and the opinion of people around the I know to be trustworthy straight-shooters.

And, as a beat guy having to cover a team every day, I think I’d take these guys over those guys every day of the week.

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Q: When was the last time the Raptors scored on every free throw?

David P, Ottawa

A: You know what I could use? A research tandem. Wonder if there are any enterprising people out there to do it.

Well, after exhaustive research involving the Raptor media guide, we find out the last time the Raptors made every free throw they shot in a game was way back on April 4, 2006. That night they made 28 straight against – ta-da!! – the Bostons.

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Q: Toronto's exciting win over Boston, your words: "the Raptors wouldn't have been in a position to win had it not been for a balanced offence that worked just as the team envisioned when the roster was assembled.

That win was great, and a statement game for sure. But what kind of statement did it make? How will the Raptors decision makers assess this win? Let's call the 19 turnovers the ugly and the 71.4% three point shooting the good, and say that both are polarized extremes of our typical game--the anemic rebounding being the bad, and unfortunately far too typical.

Come playoffs, I just don't see us winning games in this fashion, and strong teams will elicit the ugly from us more than the good. A bona fide back-up point guard (and/or TJ) will help, but we're never going to look this good throughout an entire play-off series against a top team. Let's say Bargs one day becomes as good a rebounder as Dirk (and nothing is for sure): will that be enough? So, what kind of statement do you think was made last night?

Marc Z, Halifax

A: Sometimes things are just what things are. It was a big win over the best team in the league on their court after being down seven in the fourth quarter. Nothing more, nothing less.

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Q: Love your blog (and Grange's too). Plus the back and forth between you and Grange. But here's a Damon Stoudamire question:

Why wait for him to arrange a buyout and then hope he signs with Toronto? Why not just go try and make a trade for him now? A swap of Juan Dixon and Joey Graham for Stoudamire works under the cap.

John J, Toronto

A: They have talked trade, maybe Memphis wants too much, maybe Toronto doesn’t want any salary obligation to Stoudamire past this season, maybe they want to waive him in April if T.J.’s back.

I know Stoudamire’s people would rather he get bought out so he can be a free agent this summer and maybe that’s playing into it a bit.

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Q: Totally agree with Mighty Mouse joining the team; this could be crazy if he returns and finish his career here. My questions: How many great players can come back from another team to the original team (the one they got drafted or signed) and finish their career there?

Is The Hump a trade-able player along with Dixon? Or is it better to have Joey and Dixon as a package?

Ken C, Toronto

A: You’re going to have to give me a few days on the first one, my man, that’s gonna take some research. On the second, Hump’s not tradeable unless he’s in a package that brings back a better big man.

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Q: Hi Doug, Love your blog. Makes me feel like one of the guys sitting at the bar with a beverage discussing the game. Well done.

One of the great things about NBA League Pass is that I get to watch every single Raptor game. The bad thing about League Pass is that I always get the other team's feed. The Celtics' commentators are THE WORST!! The worst, biggest homers in the league. It's disgusting. (Clyde Frazier with the Knicks is the best.)Last night however, I heard them quoting items from your blog!! Three time, at least!

Well, here's my question for you. I get the feeling that the C's are like the Gary Carter Mets. Lots of love right now, but if they don't get a ring this year they will implode with Pierce's "I was the star here first" selfishness. Could KG actually hold them together for a multi-year run?

Mark M, Sun Prairie, Wisc.

A: Sun Prairie? Is that anywhere near Neena (better known as the Town LaBumbard Built)?

Interesting comparison to those Mets but if there’s anyone who can demand teamwork and accountability for years, it’s Garnett. He’s got what I think is the most forceful personality in the league.

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Q: Hypothetically: You're Bryan Colangelo (congrats on the big raise by the way!) and you've cooked up two trade possibilities, each involving the same players on our side. That being said, you're either getting back a strong rebounder for the front court, or a decent backup to Calderon at the point, depending on which trade you choose to execute. Both players are probably going to be good bench players, but not starters. Which trade do you make and, more to the point, what do we need more at this point? Rebounding help or a competent backup PG?

I haven't had a question make the 'bag in some time, so I'm hoping you show me a little love here.

Mike D, Toronto

A: Me? Colangelo? I ain’t got that fashion sense, my man.

Okay, you haven’t told me what I’m giving up but I’ll play along. Right now, in one deal, I get the guard help first. That’s a more pressing need because if Calderon even misses two games, I don’t want to watch ‘em. The front court? Maybe Good Hump returns and you’ve still got Maceo Baston in a pinch.

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Q: Seeing a game like (Wednesday’s) makes one wish that the Raptors could play more than the two games in the 9 or 10 days that they are currently scheduled. What effect do you see with such long layoffs between games? I am sure the guys like having some extra time for themselves and might get a little bit healthier. Isn't there something to be said for getting on a roll and staying on it though? Would SMitch rather the games be a little more consistently scheduled?

Ari S, San Ramon, Calif.

A: All things being equal, I think they’d like to get in a rhythm of a game every other day. But to rest nagging injuries and the like, a couple of stretches of two or three days off between games at this time of year is quite welcome.

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Q: I completely agree with you that Il Mago will be just fine. He was better than Disco Dirk in his rookie season and while he's taken a bit of a step backwards this year, he seems to be coming around lately. My question is in regards to Anthony Parker. Do you see him continuing to develop? In your opinion, could he ever be a Rip Hamilton type of go-to guy?

Gabriel M, Mississauga

A: At 32 years old, I think what they want from Parker now is maintaining the level of play he’s at. I think it’s too much to expect him to turn into a Hamilton-esque player at this point in his career.

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Q: It's my second time for this question and I really hope you can answer this. After watching Raptors win last night against Boston. I have to say Bargnani's one of the keys to the win. He's also one of the reasons why they got on the roll last year. Why don’t the Raptors get a former NBA centre to teach him to be a centre more effectively just like the Magic got Ewing to teach Howard?

There were rumours saying the Raptors discussed about this idea. Is this true? Do you know any names they talked about and who do you think it's a good one?

Michael M, Markham

A: Specialized coaching is over-rated. You can’t expect Hakeem Olajuwon, for instance, to teach the Dream Shake to Bargnani, just as you’ve never seen Andrew Bynum shoot a sky hook despite the presence of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. And Patrick Ewing hasn’t taught Dwight Howard to be arguably the most imposing physical specimen in the league.

Bargnani’s getting good coaching, Sam knows all the little tricks defensively he needs to learn and Alex English scored 25,000 points in the league and knows how to get the offensive message across.

Time, people, time is going to make Bargnani what they want, not the magic elixir of some former player who wouldn’t have the same skill set as Bargnani does.

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Q: What’s with you and Ghana in the African Nations Cup?

Nick J, Toronto

A: What’s not to love about the Black Stars? And there are Raptor fans in Ghana and I’m just returning the love. Oh, and Ghana 1, Namibia 0 on Thursday!

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Q: Who pays a player's salary when he's down due to injury (e.g. Ford)?

Ron F, Toronto

A: The same people who pay it when he’s playing, the deep-pocketed folks at Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.

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Q: Hey Doug, here’s a question from the proud hometown of Steve Nash. This organization for the last year or so has been selling the concept of improvement from within to the fans. Apart from Bargnani (who is obviously nowhere near his ceiling) and maybe Jamario Moon, who else do you figure has room for growth?

It seems to me that Bosh, Calderon, Parker, Kapono, and maybe even Delfino are all close to maxing out their potential as NBA players. Is TJ Ford an X-factor as far as internal growth is concerned?

Zachary E, Victoria

A: I’ll gently disagree that any of them have really maxed out their potential. Maybe Parker. But Delfino can certainly be better, so can Humphries and definitely Ford. There lots of room for improvement.

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Q: We're hunkered down in the frozen north dreaming of beach volleyball. If I squint that snow could almost be white coral sand.

First a Bball 101 question. When a team receives a shot clock violation does that count as a team foul?

Second, what's up with Mo Pete? His numbers are down almost across the board. What's the thought on him in N.O. No comparison between AP and him. Delfino has pretty much the same minutes as Mo Pete coming off the bench and numbers that are pretty similar. All in all I'd say the Raptors must be pretty happy to have let him walk away.

Richard P, Whitehorse

A: First, no, a shot clock violation is nothing more than a turnover.

Second, Mo’s doing just fine, actually. While his numbers are down, I think that can be attributed to his teammates, guys like Chris Paul and David West and Peja; he’s not high on the option list in New Orleans but he’s still a dangerous shooter. Oh, and his team’s got one of the best records in the West, too.

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Q: I think Bosh is among the top five low post players in the game. It amazes me that the Raptors never immediately re-post him when he kicks it out. The double and triple teams he gets down there would never be able to get back to him before he could make his move. Shaq and Duncan always get re-posts. Why don't the Raptors do it?

Tom M, Vernon, B.C.

A: They could re-post more often but a lot of Bosh’s kickouts come on an angle to the top of the key or the free-throw line, which makes it hard to make that second pass.

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Q: The mailbag simply wouldn't be complete without the requisite request for your top 5 mid-season MVP candidates. Personally, I wouldn't put KG as No. 1 because of all the help he's got in Boston, especially when the Cavs without LeBron are dead last in the league.

Geoff A, Toronto

A: Not sure when you wrote this, but the Cavs aren’t quite that.

As for MVP candidates: I’ll give you KG first (he’s the guy making the best team go), Chris Paul would get some love, as would Kobe, LeBron would have to be in the discussion and, you know what, I’d say Brandon Roy would probably be in my top five today.

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Q: Hey Doug, love your blog and always wonder how you find the time to write it. Anyways as with many other Raptor fans I am worried about the Raptors rebounding. A team built on three-point shooting needs a rebounder and the Raps also need an inside presence.

What do you think of Brendan Haywood? I know that just his name would turn some away but he's rated eighth on John Hollinger’s centre ranking, ahead of even Camby. He contributes for the limited minutes he plays and would allow Bargs to come off the bench and play more of his game which is definitely not the C. Also his contract is not that bad either making 5.5M a season till 09/10.

Robert P, Toronto

A: Brendan Haywood’s okay, not great, not horrible. Just all right. Maybe he’d help here, he’s taller and can be more consistent than Humphries but that acquisition wouldn’t be one to shift the balance of power in the East.

Oh, and Bargnani ain’t coming off any bench behind Brendan Haywood, I can guarantee you that.

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Q: Great blog, never miss a day of it even during slow days when the topic veers from basketball. Anyway, here's a question I don't think anyone has asked yet.

Going over Raps present and past and even with the NBA, which GM/coach combination has been the most effective and on the other side worst. (They don't need to like each other so much that they exchange Valentine notes).

Peter M, Toronto

A: We’re witnessing the best right now, with Colangelo and Mitchell and there was a time, very early in the process, that Grunwald and Lenny Wilkens worked well together so I’d put them second and, for about 18 months, Grunwald and Butch worked well together.

The worst: I’d say that’s a tie between Grunwald and KO and Babcock-Mitchell with Isiah-Brendan Malone third.

In the NBA? That’s a tougher one ‘cause I don’t know the intricacies of relationships too well. I’d say R.C. Buford and Gregg Popovich would be high on the list of best, with Kevin Pritchard and Nate McMillan in Portland seem to be on the same page. Not sure about a worst but Isiah the President and Isiah the Coach sure haven’t been doing each other favours in New York.

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Q: This is my first time writing in so here it goes. If you could pick one player you could start a franchise with, who would that be? This player has to be on an active roster. Mine would be LeBron James or Dwight Howard.

Calvin H, Milton

A: Both fine picks and I’d have to agree with James as the guy. But Chris Paul would get a whole lotta love from this corner.

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Q: So for the dunk contest, I can see Jamario coming out in a old school dinosaur Carter jersey, ripping it in half, wiping his feet with it and then getting on with the show. That would be money in the bank. no chance, eh?

Chris C, Halifax

A: Nah, no chance.

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Q: How much longer do you see the Hornets staying in New Orleans? A young exciting team with a winning record can barely draw 10,000 fans for a home game, and with the Sonics more than likely heading to Oklahoma City where does that leave the Hornets?

Dwayne D, Vancouver

A: You’re right that attendance in New Orleans is troublesome, especially with such a good young team. But I think they’ll be there for at least a few more years, maybe five or more, before there’s any serious talk about them moving. And where would they go? As much as I’ like to say your hometown, I’d put Vegas, St. Louis and San Diego ahead on the preferred list.

And who knows, maybe the league goes back to Seattle if the Sonics leave, us beat grunts would be all for that.

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Q: With the formation of NBA China (let's call it the C-League for the lack of a better name), we can see how the law of large numbers prevailed (large wad of cash and largest population in the world is a potent mix). However, I have a few questions:

Is the league treating the C-League as a minor league for farming (a la NBDL)? Or will it be more autonomous, more like the unaffiliated European leagues? On one hand, I can see NBA teams signing Chinese prospects and groom them in the C-League. However, calling up the players across the Pacific on less than 24 hours notice is almost inhumane and definitely unproductive.

>Will the rosters be open to foreigners, or will they contain mostly Chinese players? While the game will be potentially more exciting when foreigners are allowed on the rosters, there is always the chance of former stars treating it as a retirement home. Just like the MLS is to European football (the REAL football, known as soccer only in US and Canada).

\While the league has talked about global expansion for years, the focus was mostly on Europe. Did this C-League surprise anyone? How is the potential of European expansion affected? Our European friends will be disappointed!

Cindy W, North York

A: We’ve been calling in the C League, too. Very cool.

It’s going to be quite autonomous and I don’t think you’ll see too many North Americans in it, and the ones who are will have very little legitimate chance of making it to the league.

I think they’re still working out the logistics of rosters and how they’ll be put together but I’m betting it’s mostly Asian who make the teams.

We’ve been hearing talk of an increased NBA presence in China for years so I don’t think this joint venture caught anyone by surprise. But I also do think it’ll have any impact on European players, or leagues.

Finally, it's here

Miss me?

Lots of time in Logan Airport so lots of stuff in here. Some of it interesting, I bet. Also had time with Mr. Grange ™ to scour the boxscore closely, we’re still trying to figure out how a team that gave up 10 offensive rebounds in the fourth quarter and trailed by seven in the same period managed to win. Oh yeah, making every shot you look at helps.

Anywho …

Three things I learned

A breakthrough? Or a tease?

You don’t think the Raptors know what the biggest problem with Andrea Bargnani has been. The kid was really, really good in Boston (the zero rebounds in the second half’s a tad troubling) and now the question is: When will he be good again?

ADAM HUNGER/REUTERS

Shots were falling (and plenty of them). Jose Calderon and Carlos Delfino made 8 of 9 threes.

Here’s Chris Bosh on that very subject:

"I just want him to keep going. If he can get two good ones in a row, he can really start to build on it and get his confidence back.”

No doubt the kid played his best game in months against the Celtics, let’s see what he brings against the Bucks.

Do you think it’s coincidental that Bargnani’s best games this season have come against some of the East’s better teams?

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A talkative lad

If James Posey chats as much when he’s playing as he does when he’s watching, I can’t imagine he’s got time to score points or make plays. The injured Celtic kept up a running - and quite colourful - commentary Wednesday in Boston, busting on anyone in a red jersey. Funnily enough, every time a Raptor made a wide open three in front of the Boston bench (and that was pretty often), he got a tad quiet.

And I’m not sure it’s good form to wear a gaudy Miami championship ring on a Celtic bench.

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It’s your number. Know it

A spy sitting down by the Raptor bench last night swears that on at least two occasions, Sam had to rather forcefully remind Jamario Moon of what play the Raptors were running. Now, half the guys in the league forget plays on a regular basis (I swear Kevin Willis spent 2 1/2 seasons in Toronto and never knew a play) but Moon’s forgetfulness stood out for one big fact: Every time Sam had to remind him of the play, it was a play for him.

And, with apologies to Paul Harvey, here’s the rest of the story:

You know, sometimes you just gotta let Sam be Sam.

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A classic from Mike D. in Toronto:

Just a thought. Now that Jamario Moon is officially in the dunk contest, wouldn't it be great if he put in a little twist and jumped over a cow? Then again all the animal rights activists would be up in arms. At least there is no pressure for him.

(You get it, Moon jumps over the cow?)

I asked Jamario about this last night. He’s heard it before and figures if he can find a company with a cow as a symbol or logo, he could make some cake off it, too.

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A couple of links for you to keep up to day with what’s going on. Here’s how Boston saw Wednesday night’s thriller and here’s what’s going on in Milwaukee, where the Bucks host the Pacers tonight before heading our way.

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They have yet to erect a plaque in the visitor’s locker room to commemorate one of the great moments in Raptor history.

It’s four years ago now, Sam’s first year and he tries to chase Rafer Alston and Loren Woods off the bench he’s so mad at them. After the game, Rafer tells me and Stumpy he doesn’t think he’s cut out for the NBA and might retire.

Enterprising journalists that we are, we write that down, march over to the most quotable dude in the room and tell Jalen Rose what Rafer said.

Jalen doesn't blink an eye, just says, "that’s strong" and wanders off.

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This may mean nothing, but Grant Hill returned this week after missing seven games after having an appendectomy.

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Once more into the mail:

I know Sam says Jimmy's and Joe's are more important than X's and O's. But what if a team has two Joes? Is Bargnani a true centre? Hardly.

He's clearly more a Nowitzki-like 4. If we did not have Bosh he would be our PF. So what to do?
In the standard locked-in NBA patterns, there is NOTHING to do that would help: Bargnani is a guy with no good place on a team with Bosh.

So...how about some out-of-the-box thinking? Why not make other teams adjust to our having TWO 4's? Yes, we would experience problems with defensive match-ups; Yes, rebounding would be an issue, but IMAGINE OTHER TEAMS HAVING TO ADJUST TO US!

Your thoughts?

Are there precedents in NBA, as there are in college/university, for teams being very creative so as to capitalize on the players they actually have, rather than forcing guys into molds that are "given" in the dominant NBA schemes?

Charles N, Mexico-Toronto

A: Well, I recall two seven footers named Duncan and Robinson playing beside each other rather successfully. One was a power forward, one was a centre and you could argue both had the skill sets of centres.

And there were the twin towers in Houston of Hakeem Olajuwon and Ralph Sampson in Houston that worked out all right.

How ‘bout we do this: We call Bosh and Bargnani both “bigs” or “posts” instead of centre and/or power forward. After all, last night the Celtics used a power forward (Kevin Garnett) to guard a centre (Bargnani) most of the night and a centre (Kendrick Perkins) to guard a power forward (Bosh). A lot of times, this whole centre-power forward thing is semantics and people get too caught up in it.

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We’re standing courtside before the game and there’s this little fellow who looks vaguely familiar chatting with Alex English. No, it wasn’t the athletic director from South Carolina, it was the one and only Ernie DiGregorio, who I grew up watching in Buffalo. Ernie (No) D now works for a casino near Boston as a host and does one of those goofy timeout gigs during games.

No sure what they were talking about but there were 28,610 career NBA points in the chat (of course, 25,613 were Alex’s) and the players should have been listening.

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Think back two years and two days, Jan. 22, 2006. Remember?

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You nutty readers have filled up the mailbag again, it’ll probably be another double-dose this weekend but if you’ve got a pressing question, click here to send it along.

Be back later

Late night and early flight has conspired to delay your usual morning bon mots.

Air Canada-willing, will be up and about in these parts by noon but gotta run to Logan now. Hope there's an adult beverage place that's got the Black Stars game on.

Of Bargs and Boston

You know, this Bargnani hate is really getting out of hand.

The inbox is over-flowing with vitriol aimed at the kid, who some want benched entirely, who some want sent to the D League, who some want sent home.

You gotta chill. All of you.

Yes, his last few games have been dreadful and he’s too soft, in my opinion, but it’s not like he’s got no skills at all.

Check out the first 18 games of this season, when he averaged about 12 points a game and had three of over 20? Or the last two playoff games of last year? The kid can play.

His shooting looks screwed up right now, he seems to always wrong-foot himself or something, and it sure looks like his confidence is shaken but there’s enough in his short history to suggest that’s not a permanent problem.

He’s been better longer than he’s been bad and that has to be promising. Maybe, like Sam and Rasho and Bosh and the rest of ‘em tell us almost every day, he’ll be fine in time.

Look at it this way: They’ve got nothing out of him for the last month and they’ve won five of seven and are three games over .500.

Imagine what it’ll be like when it finally clicks back in.

And I think it will. It’s painful some nights but the background suggests he’ll get it together.

End of rant.

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This halfway-through-the-season stuff is all over the place.

The good folks over at TSN have asked a bunch of us – me and Mr. Grange ™ representing the beat brigade – to assess a bunch of things that need assessing.

Check here to see what we thought.

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To all of you who wondered, here’s why I think Damon Stoudamire’s a good fit, if he gets his buyout and takes Toronto over Boston, which is no sure thing.

He’s a veteran who’d be playing for a contract and that’s a huge impetus. That’s why he wants a buyout rather than a trade, he wants to get a new deal this summer, I’m told.

He’d be a huge upgrade at backup point guard and we’ve seen the second unit struggle mightily at times since T.J. went down.

And you can’t worry about what happens when T.J. gets back. The absolute earliest you’re going to see Ford, in my opinion, is after the all-star break and who knows how long it’ll take him to get back into real game shape. In fact, we may not see him at all this year (that possibility exists, although I will repeat that no one knows for sure).

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We’ll open the mailbag for one:

Q: Hi Doug. Have you and others admitted you were wrong about the Celtics yet? I certainly was (but I'm not paid for my expertise :). Regardless, I was interested to learn in your recent column that the Celtics have the league's best defence. Is this the reason why many others (e.g., ESPN, etc.) thought they would dominate the Atlantic? I doubt it. Moreover, has the 'Big 3' been the entire source of the Celtics success or how much need we attribute to Rondo and others? Thanks for your thoughts.

Andy K, Waterloo

A: I’ve admitted my mistake many a time. I’m not sure it was solely defence that led others to think they’d dominate; after all, neither Pierce nor Allen were known for being stoppers.

I’m still not sold on Rondo (although Perkins has been solid all year) so it’s Garnett, Pierce and Allen buying into a true team concept that’s had a greater impact than any of the bit players.

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If you can get past about six billion stories on Tom Brady’s ankle, here’s what’s up with the Celtics in the pages of the Boston Globe today.

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When I look at Cliff Fletcher, I don’t see Wayne Embry.

That’s all.

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Mad Max out in Mississauga loves his lists. Here’s one of a couple of missives I got:

I have to say I like my lists. What would you say the current ex-raptors all star team would be, Billups, VC and T-Mac would cover the guards and SF, but for big men I can only think of Bonner and Charlie V, which would mean our ex-Rap all-star team looks remarkable comparable to the Nets.

Okay, current ex-Raptors?
Well, centre’s easy, there’s that fellow Camby out in Denver who’s pretty good. PF? How ‘bout we take Donyell as our four? Or Sean Marks?

- Could be an easy one for the Black Stars tomorrow. They get Namibia, who got whacked 5-1 by Morocco in their Nation’s Cup opener.

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And don't forget the mailbag's open, just for you.