Mighty Mouse Redux? (And other gems, of course)

The Raptors remain very much alive in the hunt to obtain Damon Stoudamire.

Someone Who Knows confirms that Toronto joins Boston and Phoenix are the likely locations for Mighty Mouse if he engineers a buyout of his contract from the Memphis Grizzlies.

TORONTO STAR FILE PHOTO

The uniform has changed but Damon Stoudamire could be back in Toronto colours.

Now, before you begin searching the remainder bins for Airborne, be advised that Boston’s still the preferred destination, I’m told.

But Toronto’s right in there.

Stoudamire, behind Mike Conley and Kyle Lowry in the Memphis backcourt, is likely holding out for a buyout so he can become a free agent this summer and get one more deal. He’s got this year and next left on his current deal.

Does he fit here? I’d say like a glove. Loves the city, can still play, would be willing to backup Jose Calderon and would be great insurance if T.J. Ford doesn’t come back at all this season.

But he also fits in Boston and it’s probably going to come down to whether the Celtics want to give him the same, or better, deal than the Raptors can.

When does it all happen? Well, I don’t imagine Bryan Colangelo’s going to let things drag too long so I’d say sooner rather than later.

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Hoo! Boy!

They’re gonna let fans with texting capabilities and internet access vote for the dunk contest winner?

You may as well cut that cheque for Jamario right now. I presume they have the internet in Minnesota, Memphis and Orlando but I guaran-dam-tee you they don’t have the numbers that there are in this area.

If the kid gets his dunks in the basket, he’s going to win.

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Did you know that Jose Calderon hasn’t missed a free throw in 2008? Eighteen straight.

Did you know that he’s not even close to the franchise record? Chauncey Billups made 51 in a row in the three weeks or so he was here in 1998. I knew Chauncey shot a lot when he was here, but wow!

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List time, courtesy of Troy K. from Toronto

Seeing as the Hump, Humpster, or as I like to call him “Would You Believe We Get This Guy in Exchange for Araujo?!” is doing a fine job as a substitute big, that begs the question: is this the biggest “something for nothing” trade that the Raptors have ever made?  Or has there been a better pick-up than this in the past?

What are your 5 all-time best “something for nothing” trades that did the Raps some good?  No need to take it the other way and think of what we got for giving away He Who Shall Not Be Named.

Here we go

Doug Christie from the Knicks for Willie Anderson and Victor Alexander, neither of whom did squat in New York.

Popeye Jones in a three-way with Minnesota and Dallas that cost Jimmy King, who never had a career.

Antonio Davis from Indiana for perpetually injured Jonathan Bender

Hump for Araujo and,

Carlos Delfino from Detroit for two second-round picks.

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Here’s one for you:
Alex English may be the greatest basketball player ever produced by the University of South Carolina.

Dave Odom has announced plans to retire as the Gamecocks coach at the end of this season.

Could Alex head back to his alma mater?

I don’t know, but it’s worth keeping an eye on.

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We’ll hit the mailbag one more time:

Q: My question is with Jamario being picked for the dunk competition and most likely for the Rookie-Sophomore game, will he be the only Raptor playing that game. In other words with Andrea struggling badly do you think he'll get the invite for the Sophomores or will his confidence be further battered by being passed over??

Steven T, Winnipeg

A: The assistant coaches, who select the participants in the Rookie Challenge, have their ballots right now. And since those teams are only eight or nine guys, I cannot imagine Bargnani getting enough support to make it.

Confidence further battered? I can’t imagine how it would be further battered, it looks at an all-time low right now. I think it’d be better for him to get entirely away from basketball that weekend instead of going to New Orleans.

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Speaking of the mailbag, it’s getting a tad empty. Do the usual, goof off from work, click here and send off a missive.

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Caught a lot of the Celtics-Knicks yesterday afternoon. Something of a dog of a game (at no point did anyone ever think the Knicks could win) but the extra-curricular activity was pretty entertaining.

Always thought the Cs were a, um, talkative bunch, seems coach Doc Rivers is not impressed, at least according to today’s Boston Globe.

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This dude does snark well.

While everyone's throwing out one of those Bargnani vs. Roy comments, thought I might as well jump on the bandwagon. I just wanna say I couldn't agree with you more on your comment that they shouldn't compare Bargnani to Roy so soon, especially given that Barney was on a pretty good team that went to the playoffs while Roy didn't. After all, who's this Roy guy anyways? He just averages 17 points, 4 assists and 4 rebounds per contest, led his team to win 13 in a row and will most likely be voted in as an all-star, all while Bargnani should be praised for his aggressiveness when he goes 3-for-13 and grabs 6 boards.

Oh by the way, someone suggested to me that the Raptors should look at a deal involving Bosh for Bonner. After all, Bonner has a ring while Bosh never seems to go far in the playoffs. I said no, but told him to give you a call.

Aaron N, Portland

A: Well played. I guess they teach sarcasm in between rainstorms out there.

We're halfway done

Halfway home. Feels good.

Generally hate those Mid-Season Report Cards but what the heck, why not stir up the zanies and let ‘em chew on these.

(C is the baseline; if you’re having an average year for your skills, that’s what you get)

Jose Calderon: A

I don’t know where they’d be without him, either.

Anthony Parker: C

Been okay, better lately but an average year so far.

Jamario Moon: B

Best story of the year. Maybe best story of ever around these parts.

Chris Bosh: A

You don’t read a whole lot of ‘Trade Bosh’ talk now, do you?

Andrea Bargnani: D

Some good games early, a disappearing act of late.

Juan Dixon: C

Asked to do something he’s not ready for. Is that his fault?

Rasho Nesterovic: C

He’s gonna be valuable around playoff time.

Carlos Delfino: B

Best addition of the off-season.

Jason Kapono: C

Shooting percentage down, but so is playing time.

Kris Humphries: C

Lots of flaws but energy and hustle count.

Joey Graham: C

Average year from average player.

Darrick Martin: C

He is what he is.

T.J. Ford: Incomplete

They miss him more than you think.

Jorge Garbajosa: Incomplete.

If he’s back this year, it’s a huge bonus.

Maceo Baston: Incomplete.

Unfair to mark a guy who never plays.

Sam Mitchell: B

Three games over .500 isn’t bad for all this team’s gone through.

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Here’s one from the mailbag

Q: Whatever happened to the fast-break in the NBA off the defensive rebound?

I remember Russell would grab the rebound for the Celts, outlet pass would almost reach halfcourt, the ball would move up the SIDE of the court and result in incredible layups or bank shots from near lane. How come we never see this anymore? What has changed over the years?

Charles N, Mexico/Toronto

A: Coaching happened.

More correctly: Micro-managing coaching happened.

Way back the day, guards would collect outlet passes and look up for an open teammates. Today, they collect outlet passes and look to the bench to see which play the coach wants called. Once they get that stop sign, things slow to the pace of sludge too often and it’s dribble, dribble, dribble, entry pass into the post, a couple of weak side screens, maybe a jump hook or a pass back out for a three.

That’s why Phoenix is such an aberration, and a delight. They run like teams used to run. But until coaches start trusting their players a little more, things aren’t likely to change.

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It’s Martin Luther King Day today and while it doesn’t resonate as much as it should up here in the general population, it does with the guys I’m around all the time.

Here’s Sam on the great man:

"He was just truly a remarkable individual to do what he did under the circumstances in which he did it, knowing how his life was probably going to turn out and understanding how important life is to all of us … To still have the courage to say the things he said and stand up for the things that he stood up for, it’s just remarkable.”

Sam was just a wee lad when Dr. King was assassinated – the little pup was born in ’63 – but he soon learned how dark those days were.

"I remember my mom, as I got older, my mom and dad talking about when he was assassinated and how things were and how you just felt like it was someone close in your family had just died. People were just devastated.

My mom said for weeks, you just didn’t know what to do with yourself. How to feel, how to think. You just felt like you were fighting for all this progress and it was, ‘where do we go now?’

He had an unbelievable mark on our future. I say to our guys all the time, I’ve said it before, I probably wouldn’t be standing here today if it wasn’t for some of the things he stood for.”

Not to go all serious on you and the world is far from a perfect place when it comes to race relations but it also a far, far better place for having Dr. King in it, even if for far too short a time.

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Yet another trip to the mailbag:

Q: Does Jose carrying around a pink Dora The Explorer backpack in his rookie year ring a bell?  If my memory serves me correctly that was Jose taking part in the Raptors' rookie initiation.  Can you fill us in on any initiation Jamario might be participating in as this year's rookie?

Luka M, Toronto

A: I can’t get my props straight but I believe Jose did carry a Dora backpack (Swiper being my personal fave Dora character) and Garbo spent last season carrying around one that was Spongebob (the best kids cartoon ever, in one man’s opinion. He lives in a pineapple under the sea for goodness sake!).

Moon’s not immune. He’s carrying a nice pink High School Musical backpack around this year.

We gotta figure out what to have Quag 2.0 (the new kid from the Post) carry.

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So, I’m flipping back and forth between the NFL game and the Nets-Suns last night and it seems every time I click to the hoops I get the same commercial, the one for Adidas to win the trip to the all-star weekend.

Quite aside from the apparent lack of commercial inventory at RaptorsTV (the same one was on at every break), don’t you think that if someone’s trying to sell you something they should try to spell words correctly?

Now, I make the odd typo and it pains me every time I see one here or in the paper, but surely in the name of marketing and sales, someone has to realize that the word’s spelled ‘accommodate.’

That’d be two Ms.

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Gotta switch sports now and it’s time to branch out with the absence of Dancing With The Stars. Ghana’s most fervent Raptor fan reports the nation’s Black Stars opened the MTN Nation’s Cup with a 2-1 win over Guinea yesterday.

Check out this lede to the story from the state-owned Daily Graphic:

Sometimes one is tempted to believe that God is a Ghanaian, particularly for the way the Black Stars got their MTN Africa Cup of Nations campaign to a flying start with a late match winner by Sulley Muntari, the most celebrated hero of yesterday's 2-1 victory by the Stars.

I’m pretty sure I couldn’t get away with such, um, descriptive writing. Read the whole story here.

Why, you ask, am I promoting the Black Stars? Well, a guy’s gotta have a team to cheer for, doesn’t he?

Sunday's special mail delivery

Killing time waiting for the Patriots-Chargers and Packers-Giants while Super Son’s off with his peeps and the better half is learning all about CPR, figured I’d clean out the mailbag.

Herewith, then, are some snarky responses to silly questions. And legitimate answers to legitimate queries.

Q: I know things will change after the trade deadline, but as of now which teams will have the cap room to take a run at Jose? How much will they be able to offer? Could you update this post deadline?

Also, what is Moon's contact situation? I've read he will be a free agent this summer with Limited Salary Protection. What does that mean for the Raptors?

Dan W, Charlottetown

A: Since trades are bound to happen and we have no idea what the cap will be next summer, this really is an exercise in futility. But futility is right up my alley so …

Right now, the Sixers, Atlanta and Charlotte will all have the money next summer to offer Calderon something substantially more than the mid-level exception and if he’s interested in going to a team that’s going to win a lot, none of them fit.

The Raptors have an option on Moon for next year that they are certain to exercise so he’ll be under contract for something around $475,000, which might make him the best bargain the NBA.

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Q: Doug I am sick and tired of seeing the Raptors get smacked around the last couple of years and have no one on the team do anything about it! The Oak man has always been my favourite player and it seems since him the only player that has been remotely physical has been Matt Bonner, which is pretty pathetic with all due respect to the Red Rocket.

My question is while I know this team is not built around toughness and rebounding like the team earlier in the millenium (Davis, Oak, JYD, even Willis). Is the great one (BC) doing anything about this? Are we ever going to get a physical nasty player again or are we gonna have to bring Oak, or Wayne Embry, or Mahorn, or maybe Laimbeer out of retirement?

Jef M, St. Catharines

A: You know, this is one of the great myths of all time, that you need someone to smack someone around to win. Tell me who on San Antonio, Miami, Detroit, the Lakers (the champs of the last 10 years or so) fits that bill?

The game’s not the same, there’s no need a Mahorn or a Laimbeer in this era.

Do they need more experience? Absolutely. Do they need an “enforcer?” Nope.

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Q: This is not your typical "get Sam Dalembert" demand to BC... consider it an honest question. Why don't you think he would be a good fit here? He averages a double-double and protects the basket (2.5 blocks). And at 73% from the line he is not a Ben Wallace liability at the end of games. Is it because of his salary? ($10 mill IS quite a bit). Or is it a lack of potential?

Ed C, Toronto

A: Money has almost everything to do with it, he’s got a huge ticket. And he’s good, no question, but he’s on a bad team and you shouldn’t get fooled by guys who put up big numbers on bad teams. Does he start over Bargnani here? Are they ready to give up on the kid yet? Nope. Does that mean Dalembert’s a backup here? Probably. And that’s waaaaaaay too much money over too many years to pay a backup.

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Q: I got a NBA 101 question for you. If Boston continues its dominance, minus a few flops here and there, and finish first in division, how can Raptors finish 3rd in conference. I know there's some kind of rule that relates to their record, but I don't know what it is or where to find it (NBA.com was no help).

Edi R, Oakville

A: You find the answer here.

Division winners are guaranteed a top four seed. Let’s say Boston wins 60 games, the Pistons win the Central with 57 wins and Orlando wins the Southeast with 46 wins. If Toronto finishes second in the Atlantic with 47 wins, they’ll be seeded third and Orlando would be fourth.

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Q: Whoever the wise old sage was who recommended the black third jerseys, I commend him. It's about time they made a move like that, as a young, up and coming team they're missing out on some marketing opportunities by not having another jersey.

My question is, when are they finally going to get rid of the purple Dino logo and just go completely with the red ball/claw thing? I understand the nostalgic value and all, but let's face it, that thing was ugly in the 90's and it's not getting any prettier.

Dan P, Sarnia

A: On behalf of wise old sages everywhere, I say thanks.

I don’t imagine the dinosaur ever entirely disappearing, though they have moved more and more to the claw.

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Q: Just wondering if Greg Oden will be eligible for rookie of the year next season when he actually gets to play a game? And if not, why are Juan Carlos Navarro and Luis Scola eligible this year when they were both drafted some time ago?

Zack R, Etobicoke

A: As I understand it, and no one’s corrected me yet, Oden’s signed a contract and been on a roster which means this is his rookie year. Navarro or Scola are in their first NBA seasons because even though they were drafted, they hadn’t signed and were therefore not, technically, in the league.

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Q: I just read about the new black third jersey. I think the red and black will look really good but you didn't mention which logo they would have on it. So I'm guessing they'll have the current one and not the old one. I always envisioned that a third jersey could have the old retro logo on it. Since the Raps no longer wear purple don't you think a nice black and red combo of the old logo would look great on a black jersey? Maybe it's just me.

Thebe P, Toronto

A: As far as I know, there is no logo, per se, on the black jersey. Right now, it says ‘Toronto’ on the front and there’s a small Canadian flag just below the neck line on the back.

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Q: I commend you on this blog, it's always interesting and fresh, and obviously takes a stellar commitment.

My question is this: Do you see Colangelo (either this year or next) acquiring a savvy veteran to help Bosh with his leadership role on this team? In high school, college and the NBA, Bosh has always been the go-to Guy, and right now the only 'veteran' he's got to look up to is Darrick Martin. Next year Martin will be gone, so I think this team will need a new guy to fill that veteran role. Let's not forget, Bosh is still only 23.

Mark I, Oakville

A: You know what? Bosh is almost a savvy veteran now. I can see Colangelo looking for a veteran big or swingman with some extensive playoff experience at the trade deadline. But by next year, Bosh will be in his sixth season, he will have been in the playoffs twice and he’s becoming the veteran presence you want. He’s an old 23, as a matter of fact.

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Q: Not a Raptors related question, but without concern for contracts and cap, would you do a straight up trade for B. Roy for D. Wade?

Second part - which of the two was the better signing: Nash by the Suns, or Shaq by the Heat? It's easy to choose Nash because he has won two MVPs and nearly a third, while Shaq is wasting away on a bottom feeding Heat team this season, but he did help bring Miami a Championship while Nash has been unable to match that feat.

Jack C, Ajax

A: Without concern for contracts and cap? Hmm, I’d rather have Brandon Roy on my team than Dwyane Wade today.

Who was the better signing? Which team has had the most consistent success (regular season and playoffs) since those two players signed? Wouldn’t you say Phoenix? I would. So I’d say Nash was a better signing and if the Heat have to pay Shaq $60 million more before he retires, that just hammers the point home more.

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Q: Roko Ukic (last week) made a statement regarding the Raps saying that he will talk about this matter at the end of the season. Roko is on loan to Roma from FC Barcelona and he says that the Raps need to speak to them about the buyout. From what I know about the situation is that the Raps can put up the $500,000 and that they reached an agreement Barcelona. So my question is. Roko just needs to make up this decision and pay the remainder of the buyout to come over? Or are there still some technicalities?

Ross T, Toronto

A: That’s exactly how it works. Roko and Barcelona come to an agreement on a buyout price, the Raptors can contribute $500,000 to that total and he has to pay the rest out of future earnings. There are no other issues at play, except for Ukic and Toronto to work out a contract.

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Q: All right, it seems that my last mailbag question (regarding Jose's Bird year and contract expectations) was almost exactly replicated in today's mailbag (Jan 18), right down to my expectations for your response (something to do with Jose's agent). So, here goes another one:

Watching the Suns-Lakers game, I was shocked at severity of the Lakers fans booing of Kwame Brown. He had a craptastic game, but at least seemed to be giving an honest effort. Having lived through the Hoffa years, can you give us your bottom 5 "worst treatment of a player by their home fans"

Ira U, Richmond Hill

A: Okay, you have to realize I only see one, maybe two, road games a year involving specific teams so I don’t have the greatest wealth of experience to go on and I won’t get to five.

I will say Stephon Marbury in New York this year and Jamaal Tinsley in Indianapolis this year would be right at the top of the list. I remember back in the day that Dallas fans use to boo Steve Nash when has playing hurt (’97-98 maybe?) and that was just plain stupid. I’d put Brown on that list twice, once in L.A. and once in Washington.

Oh, and the absolute worst had to be Larry Murphy. (Oh, wait, horrific pucks flashback, sorry).

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Q: Just wondering who is off the books for the Raps at the end of the season? I really don't see BC making any trades by the deadline. I think he'll keep his team the way it is and depending how much money the team has for 2008/2009 (any idea) he'll use that to pick up a banger. Your thoughts about BC trading this year.

Jacques L, Toronto

A: I think a trade this year is more likely than not, there’s a need for a big, another point guard and there are a whole bunch of swingmen on the roster who are the same guy and that glut needs to be eased.

And as it stands now, the only guys who drop off the books are Jose (about $2.5 million, sure to be re-signed), Juan Dixon (about $2.9 million, likely to be gone) and Darrick Martin (about $1.4 million, more likely to be gone). Rasho’s got a player option he’s more than likely to exercise.

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Q: Is Sam your favorite Raps coach of all time?

Chris B, Fort McMurray, Alta.

A: With no disrespect to the gentlemen who went before him, for the total package of personality and success, I’d say yes. But he’s also the longest-serving coach in franchise history and if someone like Butch Carter had lasted four years, he might carry that mantle.

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Q: Why won't the Raps try and get Marco Belinelli? He's not getting any minutes at Golden State and is a talented SG. He could be a great asset in, say, 2 years and would be great for motivating Bargnani. Or would he be too expensive?

Thomas G, Antwerp, Belgium

PS: You ever heard of another Belgian Raptors fan?

A: As a stellar supporter of Stella Artois, I wish we had more Belgian fans who’d send me stuff.

I don’t know that they won’t ask about Bellinelli, they liked him around draft time and I don’t imagine the interest has waned. I would imagine when Colangelo talks to Chris Mullin, Bellinelli is one of the prime topics of conversation. Expensive? He’s on his rookie deal, he’s dirt cheap.

Fashion news and The Morning After The Night Before, XXXVII

Little on the light side today, slow start to the morning but an easy day awaits since The Colleague’s on a jet plane to Philly and I can hang with the family, even take in a little bit of Mississauga Minor Basketball action today. Whoop!!! And Eeee!!!

Three Things I Learned

A new look coming

A year or so, a wise old sage suggested these guys should have a third jersey, that should be black ‘cause that’s cool. Finally, someone listened to me.

The prototypes are done now, it’s a very cool all-black Jersey with red trim and a wee bit of silver and a very nifty tiny Canadian flag on the back at the top above the name.

Right now it says “Toronto” on the front.

But before you race out and give MLSEL more of your money, the jerseys aren’t going to be worn until next season, when they’ll trot them out a dozen times or so.

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That’s why you drive

We all know Sam’s been on Jamario Moon to drive the ball more and Friday night we saw why.

From our perch on press row, had a great angle to see Moon catch a pass about the left elbow with nary a Hawk in his path to the basket. Had a great angle to see him set to take a jumper when you know the dulcet tones of Yelling Sam were rattling around his head. He took the ball down, drove it, when the defender collapsed he dished to Bosh who scored, got fouled and completed a three-point play.

I swear I saw Sam smile.

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Given a chance

Since Andrea Bargnani hardly plays in a fourth quarter – think the last time he got significant crunch time minutes was in San Antonio right after Christmas – many wondered why Sam didn’t leave him in in the first quarter when he gets his obligatory two personals.

Well, he left him in last night and it only took about 90 seconds for him to get his third.

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A visit to the mailbag

Q: Hey Doug, a hockey fan here who nonetheless loves your blog (and is slowly becoming a fan of Dr. Naismith's game because of it) -- particularly the touch of linking to other coverage, it's always a good read.

(Thursday) you mentioned sitting around telling stories with the Detroit grunts about the Kevin O'Neill era. How 'bout sharing some of them every so often? One of the things I love about your blog is that your writing style feels like we're all just sitting around having a beer, and a regular selection of stories would only make an already great blog ridiculously awesome.

You could call the segment, "Stories for Stephen" as a permanent homage to my ingenuity. Or perhaps "Smitty's Stories" as a tribute to your own.  Either way.

Stephen H, Toronto

A: Okay, some of ‘em are not meant for family reading but anything to get you away from the pucks.

It’s the second night of KO’s only season here, Halloween against Washington. If you knew KO, you knew he didn’t suffer fools, or foolish questions, too well. Could be cranky like you’ve never seen.

We’re at shootaround and dude from Raptors TV is working on a rather off-beat story and KO doesn’t do off-beat. Not at all.

Guy asks the coach, “what was your favourite Halloween costume.”

KO, being KO, gives the guy a look that could kill, turns to PR czar Jim LaBumbard and says, “Will the ridiculousness never end?”

Never did find out if KO ever dressed up as a ghost.

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Here’s how Cousin Sekou summed up last night’s affair?

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And here's how Uncle Phil gets us ready for the Sixer game tonight.

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Washington 111, New York 96.

We now return you to your regularly-scheduled Knicks season.

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More mail

Q: Okay, I know Smitch's thing is to go with who ever has shown they came to play in the fourth, but I don’t think the T-Raps can top the Bosh-Delfino-Moon-Parker-Calderon lineup that just tore the Hawks up. How good were those 5 looking together? Everything else equal, is that the lineup you'd throw out there to finish off games?

Sean K, Ottawa

A: They looked excellent, didn’t they? Not sure if it can be done every night, though, because the Hawks were playing small, too. But if there’s a power forward on the court that Delfino can guard, I’d trot that group out without any hesitation.

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Timing is everything

A year ago today, these dudes lost to Utah and fell to 19-22 (I’m sure the inbox was flooded with fire Sam, start Jose, Bargnani’s a bust e-mails).

But that loss was followed by 10 wins out of 12 games before the all-star break as they cemented themselves as a playoff team.

There are 11 games between tonight and this year’s break: at Philly, at Boston, Milwaukee, home-and-home with Washington, Lakers, at Miami, Clippers, Minnesota, San Antonio and Jersey before we all head to New Orleans for the bash.

If they go 7-4, that’d be all right, 8-3 would be excellent.

Then they’d find themselves right in the race for third, fourth and fifth for the stretch run.

A bad night cometh for Horford

We're all done shootaround just now and the topic du jour?

Al Horford, of course.

By all accounts Horford is a fine young man, respectful, a hard-nosed pro basketball player who is likely in for some grief tonight.

As you know, it was Horford who – quite absent of malice – knocked T.J. Ford to the court and to the hospital the last time the Atlanta Hawks met the Raptors and the teams will meet again here tonight. It promises to be something special.

"We just have to use that to our advantage,” Chris Bosh said of the hostile reception Horford is likely to receive. “The fans are going to come out to see it, they’re going to be really up for the game and I hope they’re going to be booing a lot to help us out.”

"He’s not perceived as a dirty player or anything, he’s just a hard-nosed guy that plays hard. He seems to be a good rookie. It’s kind of tough for him but that’s the nature of this business. Sometimes even though you do do some things unintentionally, they act like you did it (on purpose).”

Horford’s immediate acts of contrition – he apologized profusely, spent a couple of hours at the hospital with Ford right after the Dec. 11 game – are another reason none of the Raptor players are going to try to exact any revenge.

"I don’t think anybody else on the team is thinking about it,” said Anthony Parker. “Again, I don’t think there was anything malicious or anything done with intent to hurt T.J. on that play. It was just unfortunate. The motivation to win is still there but it’s not because of that incident.”

Ford won’t be at the game, he’s back in Houston working out, but he’s made his peace with Horford. And that should be enough, said Toronto coach Sam Mitchell.

"Everybody understands it was an unfortunate accident that happened a month and a half ago,” said Mitchell. “All players are disappointed when another player gets injured but that’s just part of the game some times.

"It was an accident, the young man went and apologized, spent two hours at the hospital and if T.J. Ford is okay with it, then the rest of us should be okay with it.”

Horford has an idea of what's coming, too. Check out Cousin Sekou is today's Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

A hefty mailbag, again

Don’t you people have jobs? Full mailbag again and, again, I offer thanks for all the insight you have, probing questions you pose and moments of hilarity some of you provide.

Here we go:

Q: I suspect you will have a pile of these questions this week but in a 25 point blow out over the Kings how can Sam have CB4 and Calderon both still log over 40 minutes of court time on the second of back to backs and in the middle of a four-games-in-five-night stretch?

Mike D, Cambridge

A: Yes, there were a pile of them. Big ol’ heaping pile.

The answer is pretty simple: Coaches are never satisfied.

Here’s a quote from Sam on Thursday:

"I was looking at the game last night and I felt like if we could just go and put them away, I could take him out and leave him out the rest of the game. We were playing well and we were up 18 so if you can stretch the lead to 25, 26, then you can get guys out of the game for good. I was just hoping we could go and put them away.”

And, truth be told, the difference between 36 minutes and 41, which is what both Bosh and Calderon played, isn’t that great. They had Thursday off, too. And they’re young, much younger than, say, I, and recovering isn’t that hard a thing.

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Q: Doug, look forward to reading your blog every day.  This is my first time submitting questions, so I have a few....

Why is it so hard to guard the pick and roll or what makes it so effective? Is it because some guys are too lazy to fight through screens?

Could you shed some light on what the deal is between CB and RealGM with reference to his latest YouTube video?

If I were to waive a magic wand, and make TJ and Garbo healthy from the start of the season till now, how many more wins would this team have?

Seems to me that there are a large number of Raptors fans that attend out of town games, mostly in the border cities.  Have the players ever commented, shown any appreciation for the support, etc. I was amazed at the number of people who made the trek to NJ for the playoffs and how the Raps' game in Seattle sounded like a home game for them. What are your impressions? Other than the sexy teams in the league (Lakers, etc.) how would you rate the fan support for the Raptors on the road?

Diana T, Mississauga

A: Welcome, Diana. It’s a wacky world here. Don’t be a stranger.

Here we go:

Pick and roll: It’s just a really hard play to defend at this level. If you go over the screen, the guard’s got a step on you and good ones turn the corner, get the defence moving and find open men or a path to the basket. You go under and good guards can pull up and shoot. If the big rolls, like Sam’s trying to get Hump to do all the time, he’s generally got a jump hook or a dunk.

YouTube? I’m not sure, it’s easy to do, I think he’s girlfriend might be a budding cinematographer and it’s fun. And those zany RealGMers need the love that he's giving them.

Garbo-TJ? Impossible to quantify so I will. Four more wins, which puts ‘em third in the East.

The zany fans who travel are unquestionably noticed, and appreciated, by the players. And I dunno if it’s proximity of Cleveland, Jersey, Detroit, Seattle or New York but Toronto fans are the most travel-happy of any I’ve heard of. Other teams have fans in visiting cities, but not people who travel to get there.

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Q: I am not a doomsday guy, I like the moves the Raps have made this year, and I am not concerned about our record at this point in the season.

Having said this, after watching 40 odd games, there is one thing that it is apparent to me we are missing from last year - the flop.

Garbo and Mo were amazing at this and never missed the chance to get bowled over.  Not sure if it is due to a lack of toughness or what, but I can recall a couple of times this season that if a charge had been taken at the right time, the outcome of a game could have been different.

Matt L-S, Toronto

A: You say ‘flop,’ they say ‘take a charge.’ Subtle distinction. I don’t know if outcomes of games would change, either. But it’s true, that’s one thing both Garbo and Mo did well; the best guy on this team is Delfino and as a group they don’t draw many offensive fouls.

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Q: Hey Doug, I know teams have had to play 3 overtimes to determine a winner. What has been the most overtimes required to determine a winner and who were the teams?

Carolyn B, Grimsby

A: Indianapolis beat Rochester 75-73 on Jan. 6, 1951 in a game that went six overtimes.

Six overtimes. 148 points total. I didn’t know Kevin O’Neill coached back then.

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Q: First off, I am loving your recent blogs that link us to the other teams coverage; its nice to get their beat grunts' side of things. Keep that up!

On to business... do the raps deliver a HARD foul to Horford tomorrow? Not a dirty foul, just a HARD foul. As you know, we pretty much did nothing at the time of his foul on TJ. A little how-do-you-do as he goes up for a lay-up should be mandatory as far as I am concerned.

Justin Y, Toronto

A: Mr. Grange ™ and I were discussing this yesterday. We don’t think there’s anyone who would. Maybe Rasho? Possibly. Hump might do it by accident. But that’s about it.

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Q: I was just surveying the Raps schedule, and it seemed to me at a quick glance that 50 wins was a real possibility. Then I used Google to determine the strength of schedule, and low and behold, the Raps have had one of the toughest schedules to date, and have one of the easiest going forward. When coupled with the fact that the Raps seem to be finding a real identity at this point, is a top 3 seed in the playoffs a real possibility? Are 50 wins out of the question? Am I just another delusional Raptors fan, or should they just be hitting their peak at the right time with (a little) help from the schedule maker?

Andrew D, North York

A: I got the old abacus out just now. It says they’ve have to finish the season 29-14 to win 50. I got the old crystal ball out just now. It says they can’t do it.

A top three seed, though, might be possible. I can see them finishing with 44, 45, 46 wins and that might be enough to pass either Orlando or Washington, whichever team wins the Southeast and get them No. 3.

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Q: Re: Bargnani - "But at the end of the day, or the end of this season, he’s going to be okay."

Is this supposed to be reassuring? The first overall pick in last year's draft is at best likely going to be a backup-quality role player for this team? I think that our disappointment is more than justified. Thoughts?

Dave B, Toronto

A: I’m not sure how you got “backup-quality role player” from “he’s going to be okay” but if that’s not reassuring, sorry.

He’ll be good, he’ll be a starting centre on a highly-seeded playoff team.

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Q:I admit that it is too early to put Bargnani in the same category as Olowokandi and Kwame Brown but he is clearly not developing as quickly as hoped.

He often looks like he needs a GPS to avoid getting lost at both ends of the floor.

I heard a discussion on the Swirsky show about a Bargnani and a shooter for Chris Kaman and wonder if (assuming LA was willing) you would make that deal?

Tim B, Kaohsiung, Taiwan

A: You’re in Taiwan listening to Swirsky? I’m speechless.

No, I wouldn’t make that deal.

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Q: Yet another impressive game (Wednesday) from Jose against the Kings (17 points, 14 assists, 3 turnovers) and everyone likes to talk about his stellar assist-to-turnover ratio when mentioning his prospects for the all-star team.

It's well known at this point, that only six players have averaged an assist-to-turnover ratio higher than 5 to 1 since the stat has been kept.
One thing that I haven't heard mentioned though, is that Jose is currently the only player in the NBA averaging a 900/500/400 (over .900 free throw percentage, over .500 field goal percentage and over .400 three-point percentage).

In fact, if Jose managed to keep this up, he's become only the 6th player in NBA history to achieve this feat. Nowitzki did it last year (won MVP), Nash did it in 05-06 (won MVP), Reggie Miller did it in 93-94, Bird did it twice, 86-87 (won MVP) and 87-88, and Mark Price did it in 88/89.
No one has ever posted a 5-1 ratio AND 900/500/400.
How can anyone argue that this guy doesn't belong on the all-star team?

Ken H, Toronto

A: You gotta call Jose’s agent.

Now.

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Q: Doug, it’s never too early to be thinking about the draft. What are your thoughts of Kevin Love, DJ White, Brandon Rush and Patrick Patterson. All four should still be available when the Raps pick.

Ryan G, Auckland

A: Unless you work for a draft web site,yes, it is too early to start thinking about the draft.

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Q: Doug, just a tip when you come to China for the Olympics. You should visit Jiyaun a small City in Henan Province about 600,000 people. Well city size scales are different in China. It is without a doubt the hotbed of basketball in China. More courts per capita than anywhere in the world. Would be a great story for you and get you out of Beijing for a day or two to see more of a real China.

My question is obviously I was right that Juan Dixon wasn't the answer little less the resident/coach/player Martin. What does he have on the coach or GM to keep on the roster?
He has made his money, if he is valuable as a coach offer him a coaching position. Jose needs some downtime plus a second leader off the bench would be nice. I'm sure a D League star point guard is better than Juan or Darrick.

Cam M, Shenzhen, China

A: I may take you up that offer in August, thanks

And I don’t know that there is a D League guard better suited for the NBA than either of those two in the roles they have. Randy Livingston’s leading the D League in assists and that’s a name I’m hearing but, really, he’s not going to be a huge upgrade.

I know Colangelo’s working the phones trying to do something for a bonafide NBA player. It just takes time and it’s not like Dixon and Martin are stiffs, they have played, and are playing, on a team that’s 21-18 and won four of five.

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Q: Do you think Moon will win the dunk competition?

Akaash P, Comber

A: Yes.

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Q: Despite the sudden "spurt" of wins the Knicks have been able to accumulate over the past couple of days, the organization is still in shambles (kinda reminds you of another organization, albeit more local *cough* Leafs *cough*). Anyhoo, considering the mess that is the New York Knicks, what’s up with our dear friend Glen Grunwald? What’s his story over there? Can you get any insight as to his role and position in the matter? I can't imagine it being pretty for him but I'm curious to know what effects, if any, there might on him as a result of what’s going on in New York. How's he faring?

Christephor R, Markham

A: Glen’s doing well, had a nice long chat with him last Friday before the game. He’s doing his assistant GM duties, being like the chamber of sober second thought for Isiah. Glen’s one of the all-time good guys and, even in what have to be trying times, he’s keeping his mind on his job and doing it the best he can.

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Q: Long time reader, first time writer. With Calderon filling up the stat sheet as of late and all the attention that he's getting from coaches, fans, beat grunts as a solid starter, his name is certainly out there for All Star consideration. Now if you remember from the beginning of the year, TJ said one of his season goals was to play in the all-star game. I know they say their relationship is great, blah, blah., but TJ has to be feeling some sort of uh, ______(you pick the word). Your thoughts?

Andy U, Richmond Hill

A: My word would be happiness. Or pride. Really. TJ knows this isn’t his year and he’d be nothing but glad his running mate gets to the game.

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Q: Just wondering if BC would trade Rasho and Joey G to the Lakes now that Andrew Bynum is out for 2 months for fuard Sasha Vujacic and centre Kwame Brown. Just a thought!

Jacques L, Toronto

A: I don’t imagine that’s under consideration. If I’m the Lakers, I’m happy to be out from under Brown’s contract at the end of this season, rather than owe Rasho $8 mil next year.

And, really, are Brown and Vujacic an upgrade in Toronto? Not in my mind.

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Q: Hi to "Someone Who Knows" or the Sage of Raptorsland. I'm trying to squeeze in my deadened words into your loaded mailbag, and hoping I could be lucky this time again (though not as quite as that Lee Z of Ottawa)

Few things

1) I like the idea of Il Mago going for a summer clinic to learn the intricacies of being a center, but to see BC working on a deal to bring Kurt Thomas here would likewise benefit Bargnani and other Raptor bigs in terms of low post toughness and defensive smarts that they sorely need.

2) Whatever be the outcome for Jamario Moon's stint in the All-Star Dunk contest, could you influence the other beat grunts to refer to him as the 'MoonJammer' from then on (buying them a bottle of their favorite adult beverages might add to your persuasive... er, coercive power)

3) How's your man, Walter Herrmann, evolving in his new team?  Does BC has any interest trading for him?

4) What's the update of TJ's status?  Will he or won't he be back after the All-Star break?  If not, Sam Cassell could be the missing link to Raptors success in the playoffs, you agree?  Okay, that's it.

Rikki C, Burlington

A: Man, you ask a lot of questions. Do you know Diana from Mississauga by any chance?

I love Kurt Thomas’s game, BC got him in Phoenix and I’m sure when he talks to Seattle, Kurt’s name comes up.

My fellow grunts don’t listen that closely to me, but I’ll ask. Good name, MoonJammer.

My man Walter is buried. Can’t get on the court. Think Pistons like his expiring deal, although they could use a two-guard and Juan Dixon might fit.

TJ’s back home working out, no real word in the last couple of days. Sam Cassell, I bet, is high on everyone’s radar, specifically Boston but his relationship with Sam Mitchell might help persuade him Toronto’s not a bad place.

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Q: With the Noah situation uncomfortable with the Bulls, this is a guy who would have the Raps considering him if he went a year earlier, and while he would not impact this year too much for the future he may be what the Raps need off the bench. So Joey and this year's #1 (unprotected) for him?

Bruce M, Winnipeg

A: If John Paxson suffers a seizure or something. Otherwise, not a chance.

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Q: Doug, I know how much you love trade suggestions, but thats not exactly what this is.

I know that you had said BC was looking at Ridnour from Seattle, I was just wondering what you thought about Nick Collison? I think he'd be a great fit for the Raps as he is a really good rebounder and can bang around, but is pretty athletic and can run the court, fitting more into the Raptors up tempo system.

Dan P, Sarnia

A: Nick Collison, while intriguing, has about $20 million left on his deal after this year so I don’t think there’d be any interest here.

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Q: I'm just wondering, does your business card say beat grunt anywhere?

Lawrence C, Scarborough

A: You think I have business cards?

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Q: I believe Bryan Colangelo has gone on record saying that the Raptors will match any offers that Jose Calderon receives this summer as a restricted free agent.  But then what's to stop a team from presenting a ridiculously high offer sheet just to inflate the cost of keeping Jose on our team?  Or are there rules to prevent such things from happening?

Chi-Hung T, Richmond Hill

A: Any team that makes an offer to Jose has to have that cap room to work with, they can’t just say make him a $10 million offer with $5 million to spend under the cap. Other than that, the most any team can offer is the mid-level exception.

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Q: You know that Kanye "Stronger" song everybody loves to hate - hates to love? I think you should get Sam to "rap" his own version of it for the team but instead of harder/better/faster/stronger use "post it, kick it, swing it, shoot it" based on your blog comments (Thursday) What do you think?

Doug S, Peterborough

A: You want Sam Mitchell to put my words to a rap parody?

If I get residuals, I’m all for it; he’d never go for it.

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Q: Let's look into the future and imagine that both TJ and Calderon are perfectly healthy. Is Calderon really going to go back to playing 20-22 minutes a game? Does that even make sense? He is our number two threat right now and I can't see how this guy is going to be happy playing backup minutes anymore.

Here is an alternative possibility. You have each player run the point for half the game and then have them play about a quarter together with each having a clearly defined role as either the point guard or shooting guard. This allows you to get them 32 minutes a game each and ensures that we take advantage of the fact that they are clearly our second and third best offensive players. Of course, you will be giving up a bit on the defensive side but that can be minimized by trying to get those eight minutes where they are playing together against a smaller lineup. Plus, even if you ideally would not want either one of them guarding a shooting guard, I think that their offensive presence would more than make up for any defensive deficiencies. What do you think?

Zack G, Toronto

A: I’m not sure how he’s going to split the minutes up but Sam’s not going to play TJ and Jose together except in very rare circumstances. Neither is big enough to guard twos and neither comes off screens and shoots well enough to be a two. Both create, rather than react.

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Q: Thanks for your explanation of fouling at the end of close games.  I think I get it now, though I don't enjoy watching 5 minutes of play extend to 30 minutes real time.

I went to the Detroit game a few weeks ago and I was surprised at the amount of marketing that is thrown at you from start to finish. There was a "Spin the vodka bottle" contest.  The highly c-oordinated advertisements on the ring separating the upper and lower seats. The worst I think is the "McDonald's 3 pointer.” I mean really - how can a company sponsor 3 pointers? What are they going to come up with next - the Taco Bell two-pointer! The Burger King Assist ... and the Coca-cola Dribble!

From your experience, is the level of advertising similar in other arenas around the league?  Has the commercialization of the game increased over the years?  Are the timeouts really there because TV channels can show commercials?

Clement M, Toronto

A: From my experience, there are people in the Raptor offices right now dialing Taco Bell, Burger King and Coca-cola to offer them “partnership” possibilities.

The level of commercialization is shocking. Truly. Everything from the Dance Pak to the hallways are sponsored, it seems. But it’s a league-wide epidemic, these guys just go with the flow.

It’s risen incredibly in the 13 years I’ve been around but that’s the way of the world. Everyone has to optimize every chance to make a buck.

Some of the timeouts, two a quarter, are mandatory, which gives the TV folks time to sell some stuff.

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Q: Over the last 10 games or so I have noticed situations at the end of a quarter (or half) where the Raps get possession of the ball with anywhere from 30 to 40 seconds left, and have not elected to use the 2 for 1 strategy. Just doesn't make sense to me. With all the decent perimeter shooters and especially with our trouble of defending the last few seconds of a quarter; why haven’t we taken an early clock shot and then get the ball back to run out the end of the quarter?

Chris S, Toronto

A: I think they could do more two-for-ones and often you’ll hear Sam scream “push it, push it” because he’d like ‘em to, too. But it’s also got to be up to the players to recognize time and score and that’s a failing of this team sometimes.

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Q: With the league enjoying a bit of a renaissance at the 5 spot - good number of skilled, natural centres - how many other teams would be working as hard as Toronto to turn a gifted perimeter player like Bargnani into a centre? Alongside a Howard, or a Kaman would he just be a very tall three? Could a situation like this emerge for the Raptors and would it be desirable?

Kristian G, Toronto

A: Not too many, as you well know. But Bargnani’s skills are better as a five who can stretch a defence. He can’t defend threes in transition, either. We’ve asked Sam a lot about whether Bargnani can be a small forward and it’s not something he sees happening.

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Q: Since you asked: Does Kevin Martin have the skinniest calves and ankles of any pro athlete you’ve ever seen?

No, that would probably be Manute Bol. Keon Clark might be another. Maybe this could be the subject of another top 5 list? My old mind has gone blank on the name of the 7-6 player who was a Mormon, I think, and played a number of years in the NBA, mostly as a back-up. He'd probably be another stick figure for the list.

Richard W, Toronto

A: You’re talking about Shawn Bradley.

You’re welcome.

The Morning After The Night Before, XXXVI

That was rather decisive, wasn’t it?

I imagine when the season began, that’s exactly the kind of game they envisioned, post it, kick it, swing it, shoot it. Works pretty good against a drab team that didn’t really care about defending on the perimeter. Or the interior, as it turns out.

On with the show

Three Things I Learned

Not as bad as it looks

Take a glance at Bargnani’s line last night – 3-for-13, seven points in 26 minutes – and come away unimpressed. Watch him, though, and it was a much better outing that we’ve come to expect Six boards, active on defence, aggressive on offence. And he missed four three-pointers but if there’s one thing we know about him, he’s going to knock down those shots more regularly.

The whole Bargnani thing is really getting out of control right now. The kid’s going to be fine, he isn’t right now, but he’s slowly getting it. Lord knows I’ve ripped him for being soft and uninterested and he’ll have more bad nights and the Trade Bargnani dolts will come out of the woodwork. But at the end of the day, or the end of this season, he’s going to be okay.

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Some pins

Does Kevin Martin have the skinniest calves and ankles of any pro athlete you’ve ever seen?

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Stat line of the year

Eight for 11 from the field, 5-of-7 threes, seven boards, six assists, four steals, one turnover, 26 points.

If Carlos Delfino can play any better, I’d be shocked.

That’s as good a game as these guys are ever gonna get from the small forward spot.

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This is one of the coolest things I’ve seen in a very long time.

Thanks True Hoop over at ESPN. Excellent stuff.

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Mail’s in

Quick dip into the mailbag, and I’m saving some doozies for tomorrow; if you’ve got a doozy, send it here.

Q: I read your Sacto link, they hardly mentioned the Raptors. What do you think: Ron Artest 19 games 26 offensive rebounds 86 defensive rebounds, as a rental player -- paid $7.4 mil a year, cheap for the rest of the year. Would he be attractive for the Raps to give them some toughness and attitude despite his ten cent brain?

Also does any NBA team trade players when they are on the road, that would be really cold. If they do it, what would you say was the coldest trade that you remember. Ciao keep up the good work.

David P, Ottawa

A: While he’d immediately be their starting small forward and exactly the kind of presence they need, his habit of, um, doing nutty things every single year would make him far more of a liability. And far too much of a liability, I think. After all, for all the talent he’s only had one good run in the playoffs and that was in 2004 and he screwed Indiana out of going to the finals with his antics in Game 6 of the conference final with Detroit. Got a flagrant foul that turned the tide of the game.

Trades? Sure, they can deal guys on the road. It’s cold but it’s a cold league. They dealt Vince on the road, Antonio Davis on the road, I believe. Coldest in Toronto, and that’s all I’ve got personal history with, was the day they traded Kevin Willis to Denver when we were in Boston, I believe it was, and Willis never saw it coming. He was hurt and angry.

And dealing Alvin Williams to Boston the eve of the 2000 all-star break – a trade that was rescinded on the Friday of the break – was pretty uncouth, too.

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Chris Bosh is at it again.

I’m not sure if he’s got acting in his future, but he’s on youtube again. Those zany folks over at RealGM (and you know who you are) are gonna be over the moon at this mention.

Not sure, either, about the whole eating thing during the clip and the delivery is not quite Pacino-esque but give the kid credit for putting himself out there.

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Another dip in the mailbag

Q: Last time I asked you which beat grunt gets the most groupies and now my question is regarding competitiveness. In your online stories and responses to questions, I've determined that you and the other grunts (by the way is beat grunt a term of endearment?) have what appears to be a friendly relationship and a lot of fun together.

I guess traveling North America together covering games forges a certain kind of bond. Question is, is there any kind a rivalry among you? (i.e. who writes the better story, whose blog gets the most hits, who Smitchell ridicules the most).

Due to the competitive nature of the organizations you work for I can’t imagine it’s always love.

OJ M, Toronto

A: Groupies??????? You keed, you keed.

As for Grunt World (and it is indeed a term of endearment), there’s all sorts of competitiveness. We all want to be first with the big story but like the old adage says, don’t get too high when you win or too low when you lose. One of the wise old men who taught me this beat business once put it like this: 90 per cent of the stories are tied, you’ll win five per cent and lose five per cent. It’s how you handle yourself that counts.

We do have some laughs – the yucks were flying post-game the other night in Detroit when we were sitting around with some Pistons guys telling Kevin O’Neill tales – and that’s what eases the hell of travel.

But I say again: Groupies???????

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Check out how Sacto covered Wednesday night.

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Hey, you all notice the Knicks have now won three straight? And no Marbury in any of them? Coincidence? Maybe. Maybe not.

But what I’m thinking is they stole one against a worn out Detroit team playing its fourth game in five nights, got Washington on a letdown after the Wizards beat Boston twice and then beat New Jersey ‘cause right now, New Jersey sucks.

If you’re looking for an Eastern Conference team most likely to make a trade and you’re not limiting yourself to Toronto, I’ve got the Nets at the top of the list.

Check out My Man Dave D in Newark today.

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Oh yeah, you wanna get in the already-crowded mailbag? Click here and see what happens. It's the magic of the Internet.

The Morning After The Night Before, XXXV

In a bit of a hurry this morning (like that’s unusual) ‘cause I gotta drive home to see the Sacramentos tonight. Wonder what zany thing Ron Artest will do to entertain us.

Three Things I Learned

Is change coming?

Watching a small lineup provide the kind of energy he wants, might Sam be thinking about using it more often? Sunday it was Jose, Moon, Parker, Delfino, Bosh and last night it was Dixon, Moon, Kapono, Graham and Nesterovic that made a passable attempt at getting back in the Pistons game.

Sam’s quote after the game (“We have a game tomorrow so we don’t have much time to think about it”) seems to hint that he’s at least going to think about, doesn’t it?

This is why they scream

Let’s say the Raptors score with four or five seconds left in a quarter. Look over at the bench and you’ll see coaches screaming at the players to get up on their guys full court. Two reasons: One, it doesn’t allow the opponent to let the ball roll to halfcourt before picking it up and starting the clock, and, two, it may force a bad pass, as it did at the end of the second quarter last night.

It’s not just because coaches like to hear themselves scream.

Just as they expected

A few of us retire to a little bistro after the game for some sustenance and liquids and to dissect what we’d just seen. Alongside me is a Detroit fellow who’s followed this team for some time and I’m barely in my seat when he turns and says: “How about Carlos? See what I mean?”

This is a guy who’d been telling me since the summer that Delfino’s a tease, great for six games, not-so-great for six. And seeing how Delfino had 14 points in the second quarter and none the rest of the game, I had to agree.

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We’ll go quickly to the mailbag:

Q: When do you start starting Delfino over Moon? I think Moon's potential explosiveness can exploit other team’s second units and possibly turn him into less of a jump-shooter. Delfino seems to be able to create his own offence and might be a bit more creative than Moon seems to be against other teams starters. Someone needs to tell Moon that the other team is leaving him open for a jumpshot for a reason.<

Normiyuki H, Toronto

A: See above, although there have been moments in the recent past where I would have agreed with you wholeheartedly. Now? I’m not so sure.

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There is nothing like Sam on a roll. And he got on one pre-game in Auburn Hills, first killing Stumpy for being vertically-challenged (according to Historian Sam all the great wars of all-time have been started by short people), then lighting in to all reporters.

"I don't trust y’all,” was how he started. “Let me tell you what y’all have done to me (since becoming head coach in Toronto). I have become a cynic of people.

"I don't believe one thing people say. I was born a trusting fool, and y'all have educated me to the point to where anytime y’all ask me a question I always think there's something you're trying to do to me.”

Before anyone gets all bent out of shape, he was joking around with us, as he does. And when he does, it’s worth the price of admission. Of course, we get in free.

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From the angry side of the inbox:

This is the first time I couldn't finish watching the game.
Why do you think we Raps fans want Sam fired? He just prays for a win. He doesn't know his players well. He doesn't have any strategy. He just prays his players play well, just well.
Why do you think Sam didn't have Jose, CB4, and Delfino on the court in the 3rd quarter? The 2nd, maybe 3rd unit could make 12-point game from 18 at the end of the 3rd, but that was because the Pistons didn't play well, not because the 3rd unit played well. Sam should have started the final quarter with CB4, Jose, Delfino, AP and Rasho (or Kapono).
Raps up by 24 and 20 against Mavs and Cavs, but they lost the games. Why did Sam couldn't win this game? 11 minutes of 3rd quarter and the whole 4th quarter were garbage time?
Watching the game like this, my blood pressure is going far north.

John P, Belleville

A: Dude, I’ve got some blood pressure pills I’d be glad to share with you because, man, you need them more than I do.

Did you actually watch the game before you couldn’t finish? Did you see the starters get into an 18-point hole and then the small lineup get it back down to eight?

Seriously, man, you gotta chill.

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Oh, and it seems like my man Chris McCosky’s not a big Sam fan, either. Check out his game story.

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Persistent Chaz E. of London (the U.K. kind) provides an opportunity for a list with this query:

"Hopefully this is third time lucky. If you could choose the draft class of 2003 again who would be your top 5 picks in order?”

It was: LeBron James, Darko Milicic, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade.

It should have been: LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh and anyone other than Darko.

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I don’t think they’re showcasing Joey but I do think he’s got some trade value now with his performances in the last few games.

And I’m absolutely certain BC is working the phones more feverishly right now trying to get something done. He’s probably re-visiting conversations he’s had over the last month or so and I’d say it’s 70-30 he gets something done in the next couple of weeks or so.

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Oh, and here’s what they’re saying in Sacto leading up to tonight’s mighty struggle.

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The usual reminder goes here to fill up the weakly mailbag. (That's an intentional typo, by the way). Tomorrow’s the only non-game day of the week so I’d like nothing better than to spend it culling questions from y’all.

Nothing minor league about this idea

Maybe they can call the D League team the Huskies.

I’m not usually a fan of minor league sports – although a day in a small-town minor league ball park can be a great way to spend time – but the thought of D League team around these parts makes entire sense.

Not sure if they put it in Hamilton, or at their fancy schmancy place out in Oshawa, or at Ricoh (my preference would be the Hershey Centre ‘cause it’s close and the offspring and I could see games) but wherever it is, is good.

Two reasons: More basketball, the better; and, talking to BC yesterday, I get the impression he’s really interested in helping develop Canadian basketball content, and not just players. Execs can be trained, other front office types and it’s just a good thing.

I don't imagine they'll play to sellout crowds -- look at how the Marlies have taken the city by storm -- but here's an idea, one proposed with minor league hockey by fellow blogger M. Grange ™.

Make every ticket outside of the ones on the floor $10, general admission, sit where want.

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Mail’s in.

Q: Two questions for you:

1. Do you think Bargnani is feeling the mounting negativity and pressure? I'm not his biggest fan, but I have to give him credit for what appears to be a pretty stiff upper lip.

STEVE RUSSELL/TORONTO STAR

Delfino getting steady minutes and running with it.

2. Carlos seems like a pretty intense dude. Does he get on any of the other players' cases at all, or is he fairly easy going in the locker room? And, think he's going to be ok with continuing to come off the bench for the foreseeable future?

Alex L, Barrie

A: We all know outward emotion, or some say any emotion, is not a Bargnani trait so it’s hard to get a read on him. But I can imagine he feels a bit put out at the criticism he’s getting from all quarters but when we ask him about it, he fully admits he’s not playing well and has to get better. That’s a good first step but doing something about it would a good second step.

Carlos? He’s so quiet it’s scary so I can’t imagine he gets on anyone’s case. He’s playing more minutes, and consistent minutes, than he ever has, I’m quite sure he’s fine with his role right now. And will continue to be. All he wanted was a shot to play regularly and he’s getting it.

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Not sure how this’ll be a factor, but the Kings should have both Mike Bibby and Ron Artest back in the lineup for tomorrow’s game. Just in case you were wagering or somesuch. Not that that’s a good idea or anything.

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I’m told by Someone Who’d Know that they’re looking at a new scoreboard for the Air Canada Centre next year. I think of this only because I was watching the Boston game last night and, I gotta tell you, the video quality on the scoreboard at whatever they’re calling that arena today is the best I’ve ever seen.

Hope they do that here, too.

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Pistons lose two of four on a road trip – including getting spanked by the Knicks and being taken to overtime by Charlotte – and it’s disastrous.

Check out Chauncey Billups and others in the Detroit chronicles today.

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I think this might be the best idea a reader has ever presented. It comes from Jason Howlett of Princeton.

I'm going to give you over one year to pull the strings to make this happen.

Phoenix February 14, 2009 Sam Mitchell, Anthony Parker and Candace Parker in the (all-star weekend) Shooting Star Challenge!

I know it's cities with both NBA and WNBA but why not? Think about the hype with a brother-sister combo and father Mitchell.

Maybe if you want them to win you could kick Sam out and slide in (Dell) Curry or someone who can shoot.

If we offered prizes, I’d send you one. And I’ll get right on this. Can’t see it happening but still …

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Mike Brown gets a two-year contract extension as Cleveland’s coach and only one thing comes to mind: You know LeBron James signed off on the deal before it was done. Word around the league is that nothing happens to the Cavs without LeBron’s approval.

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More mail

Q: Who do you think are the 5 most over rated players and 5 most under rated players in the NBA?

Aftab R, Brampton

A: This is one of the questions that will hopefully spur some comments and open me to ridicule. A perfect one, in other words

So, here goes (I will preface it by saying all these guys, especially the over-rated, bring something to their teams, just not enough)

Over-rated

Tracy McGrady, at least until he wins a playoff series.

Drew Gooden, no specific reason, just that I’m often underwhelmed.

Rashard Lewis, he’s not a max-value guy.

Jermaine O’Neal, he talks a good game, leadership-wise.

Jameer Nelson, how did they give him that contract?

Under-rated

Caron Butler, it’s hard to under-rate an all-star but this guy’s good, when Gilbert Arenas is out, at least.

Travis Outlaw, thought he’d be a great Raptor last summer.

Kevin Martin, all he does is score. And score a lot.

Andres Biedrins, the next West all-star centre.

Chris Kamam, dude’s almost a 20-10 guy.

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And, finally:

"Right now," Wallace is better than Bosh, you argue. One might also point out that, "right now," Bosh is the reigning Eastern Conference player of the week, or that, "right now," Detroit is coming off a humiliating defeat at the hands of the hapless N.Y. Knicks, who held Wallace to 6 points on 3-9 shooting.

Sean S, Toronto

P.S. I'll understand should you choose to ignore this message. After all, you seem to prefer publishing messages that are either (a) full of inane trade proposals or (b) grammatically challenged. Why don't you edit the letters?

A: Nyah, nyah, will so publish it.

The Morning After The Night Before, XXXIV

How 'bout that one? Best one in the arena so far this year? Yeah, I think so, too.

Gotta give 'em credit for taking those gut shots at the end of the fourth and the first overtime and hanging in there.

Anyway, here's today's offerings.

Three Things I Learned

Tough day for Moon

Sure, the four-point play was the biggest gaffe of the afternoon by Jamario but he hadn't been having a good one to that point anyway. In the middle of the first quarter, he's slow to rotate to an open man and I don't recall Sam chewing him out quite as hard and everyone in the arena knew it.

But you gotta give the coach credit. Mitchell didn't take him out of the game immediately, he waited on possession so he didn't show Moon up too much. That's a good, solid coaching move; so, too, was sticking with him through the overtime.

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How much is too much?

This backup point guard thing is getting out of hand.

Calderon had to play the entire second half and both the overtimes because Sam didnt have confidence in either Martin or Dixon to let 'em get even two minutes at the end of the third quarter.

And, have you noticed in the last three games -- notwithstanding the final four seconds of the first quarter yesterday -- that Mitchell has stayed with Calderon until after the second quarter starts, and after the fourth starts, to help them finish quarters better.

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Bargnani's summer vacation

Asked Sam on the weekend about the kind of coaching Bargnani's getting and what they can do to help him out. Mitchell did suggest they might send Bargs to a big man's camp this summer, the one run by the legendary Pete Newell, I imagine, so he can learn the intricacies of being an NBA centre.

Pretty good idea.

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Let's get right to the mailbag for one:

Q: I honestly can't believe you. Maybe you were in the rush to answer as many mailbag entries as you could your were a little cloudy in the noggin.

How can you put 'Sheed above Bosh on the World vs. USA All-Star team? I'll just assume that was an oversight on your part, or maybe you were just enjoying a few extra adult beverages on Saturday night...most of us grown-ups like to imbibe in the spirits over the weekend, I can't imagine you're any different form the rest of us.

A quick note on this afternoon's game, thought it was a nice move by Sam to put out a smaller aggressive defensive lineup in the OT periods to limit Roy's effectiveness, looks like it paid off in the 2nd OT period. What did you think of Bosh with the 4 smalls out on the court to finish the game?

Kristian P, Waterloo

A: Right now, I think Rasheed's probably a better player than Bosh. Maybe that's not the case next week or next month but today? It is.

The four smalls and Bosh was a very good lineup and, in most cases, it'll work well. It's matchup driven but athletic and probably as good as they can get defensively. But most coaches don't want to make any substitutions during an overtime -- don't want to interrupt flow that's on the court -- so the fact the same five guys played those 10 minutes wasn't out of the ordinary in an overtime game.

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You check out the Portland bench? Yes, that is Maurice Lucas working as an assistant and he still looks likes he could, and would, kick anyone's butt if he got back on the court.

He was, to many people, one of the toughest guys to ever play the game.

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Here's how the game looked from the Portland point of view, thanks to Jason Quick.

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Okay, we can do Brandon Roy vs. Andrea Bargnani 'til the cows come home (and we do) but how in the world did Minnesota actually take Roy and trade him for Randy Foye?

That's ridiculous.

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A week or so ago, had a mailbag query on why teams foul at the end of games? Well, I present yesterday as evidence why. Raptors have the ball out of bounds with 25.5 seconds left and instead of defending a possession and allowing the Raptors to run the clock down (like New Orleans did on New Year's Eve), the Blazers foul Bosh immediately and it gives then a chance to eventually tie on the Outlaw four-point play.

That's why you extend games.