A little light reading for you

A heavy, heavy mailbag today, which will give you something to read while I’m hanging around the Air Canada Centre at various camps and workout sessions trying to get my head around the draft.

And then, hopefully, finding an adult beverage or two.

Have fun

Q: What is your opinion on Chris Kaman vs. Rasho Nesterovic. A friend and myself differ on who is a better centre. I say Rasho has the basketball smarts and enough moves to be the better player. While Kaman does put up bigger numbers, he is also a less consistent player, despite his athletic edge. If you were GM of the Raptors and the Clippers offered Kaman straight-up (assuming contracts were equal in price and length) would you pull the trigger? Where does Rasho rank among NBA centres?
And what is his likely fate once his contract expires with the raps?

Ricky D, Toronto

A: Let’s see, Kaman’s six years younger, quicker and an equal for to Nesterovic at both ends. He’s finally coming into his own as a good, young big man so I’d take him over Rasho all the time. And I like Rasho and his game.

If the Clippers ever made that offer, I’d take it in a minute.

I’d put Rasho about middle of the pack among NBA centres and I think when his contract’s done, he might be able to get one more deal for two or three years to play as a backup somewhere and teach the game to a promising youngster.

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Q: Quick question (and not entirely a swipe at Bargnani, because I'm still reserving judgement until this season), but why do GMs "love" 7 footers with range? I understand the shooting and spacing and mismatch potentials, but it seems to me, that I'd just as soon have a dagger tossing 6'7" shooter outside who can slash and defend the players that normally play out there.
I can only think of one successful example (Dirk), and as good as he is, he doesn't look like a total game changer, and he seems to have more driving skills then AB or Darko, etc. Are there other examples, or are 7 footers with range a pipe dream that GMs get hooked on but doesn't generally work out? Interested in your thoughts...

Sasha F, Toronto

A: General managers and scouts are always looking for someone who does something no one else does, or at least something very few others do. A 7-footer with legit three-point shooting range is a pretty unique combination that can cause matchup problems.

I can’t think of a specific 7-footer with those kinds of skills, though.

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Q: I always hear everyone talk about what a good GM Brian Colangelo is. For a while I thought so too. Then one of my friends (who hates the Raptors) asked me, "What has Brian Colangelo done in any organization that was so great?"
Then he got me thinking........he was right! I still can't come up with an answer so maybe you can help me out. What has B.C done in the past that was so outstanding? What he he done to get so much respect around the league?

Mark M, Toronto

A: Well, he turned around Phoenix from a 30-win team to a conference title contender by shrewd moves (Nash, Bell, Stoudemire, Marion); he took a Toronto team that had won 24 games the year previous and made some bold moves (Ford for Villanueva) and key additions (Parker, Garbajosa, Nesterovic for Bonner) and changed the culture around the organization The Raptors missed the playoffs for five years before he got here, they’ve been them in each of the last two.

That enough?

Oh, and he's been the NBA's Executive Of The Year twice. That enough?

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Q: Looks like Canada Basketball is starting to make some decent moves to get the program back to respectability.
My questions: Any Canadians have a shot at being drafted this year? If not (which I realize is likely) are there any in the next couple years that might make it?

Darren K, Kitchener

A: Can’t see a Canadian NBAer on the horizon in the next five years.

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Q: I have been anticipating this off-season (i.e. Bargnani's development, the Ford/Calderon dilemma and the draft) as I believe it is a pivotal one for the long term success of the franchise. I am interested in your thoughts on Chris Duhon. I believe he is an unrestricted free agent and I think he would be an excellent backup to Ford or Calderon. I would also like to know if you think Calderon can become at least a passable defender? If we draft a guard or small forward, we will be hard pressed to find a legit interior presence who can compliment Bosh and provide help when Calderon, assuming he is our PG in October, inevitably allows penetration.

Omari J, Pickering

A: Chris Duhon would be an adequate backup, I guess; but they could do better, I think. If they’re going to go that route, I’d take Roger Mason Jr. over Duhon as a relatively cheap free agent backup.

Yes, Calderon can become a passable defender, it just takes work. He turned himself into a good shooter from a bad one so why couldn’t he do that on the defensive end, too?

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Q: Conventional wisdom suggests that building a solid NBA team (which can contend for a championship) is a long-term strategy i.e. you begin with a solid nucleus, manage the cap well, add good role players -and given time to gain experience and familiarity with each other- you hope that's enough to translate into a winning team.
But every so often, a team is able to make the giant leap from very bad to very good, such as the Celtics this year. My question is, how often do these type of opportunities present themselves?
Under what 'perfect storm' of circumstances would the Raptors find themselves in such a position? It obviously can -and does- happen. I would imagine that of all people, BC (being the guy who engineered the Nash trade back on '04) is more aware of this fact than most other people.

Terence G, Mississauga

A: The perfect storm would be dealing TJ for a swingman who has a breakout year, almost at all-star potential; getting a player with the No. 17 who can crack the front-court rotation behind Bosh and Bargnani and ahead of Rasho and seeing Bargnani develop a low-post game and rediscover his three-point shot.

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Q: I was wondering if you think Marreese Speights would be a good pick for the Raptors in the draft. He is an athletic 6'11 big man with good range who could help us in the front court. I am still curious if his post moves are good. If his post moves did develop well and he played solid post defence he would be a great compliment to Bosh's "outside" game. Also if the Raptors did draft him or another big man project like JaVale McGee would they consider taking the route of getting a former great NBA Big man to train their prospect like L.A. did with Bynum-Kareem and Orlando did with Howard-Ewing.

M J

A: Speights is moving up the draft lists of people I talk to and may be on the Raptors radar. They’ll have him in Saturday to work out, too. And I’ll be able to tell you more after that.

Oh, and I don’t see a change in the coaching staff for the coming season.

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Q: In one of your non-blog things (what'd you call those: "articles"?), you mentioned that John Lucas Jr. was "the son of the former Raptors consultant."  When did senior get fired/not-re-signed? Is this part of TJ being on his way out? Have there, or will there, be any more coaching (I mean assistants...this is not a "Fire Sam" email) changes?  On that front, do the Raptors still have the smallest coaching staff in the league (someone mentioned this a couple of years ago when we had three assistants)?

Paul M, Toronto

A: John’s contract to “consult” expired May 1 and has no bearing on the TJ situation at all. And, no, I don’t think there will be any coaching changes and having three assistants and Eric Hughes on the staff, it’s the same size as the majority of the league.

Q: Hey Doug, Why do teams promise to draft players? It doesn't make sense. What is the advantage of promising a player you will be pick them before draft night?

Aftab R, Brampton

A: Mainly so the player won’t go work out for another team, which then might want to trade up to get him.

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Q: Here's a list for everybody, and I apologize if it's already been listed before. But anyway. Who do you think are the most skilled raptors of all time? What I mean is b-ball IQ, offense/defense, passing, intangibles.?
In not particular order I would have to include guys like Oakley, Mark Jackson, and Garbajosa.

Patrick K, Binghampton

A: Add Alvin Williams, Muggsy Bogues and Dell Curry to that list.

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Q: I just read your summary of the Garbo situation in the blog and you make it sound like the buyout was more a Raptor initiative than Garbo's. I bet the fact that Garbo wants to play for his country in the Olympics more than anything, and was in fact listed on their roster, did more to precipitate the buyout than the Raptors seeking financial flexibility or roster space. (I'm sure they would have happily used his expiring contract as trade ballast. Now, if I'm not mistaken, it amounts to some insignificant cap space.) I like Garbo, and understand patriotism, but would you be as forgiving of Chris Bosh if he was coming off a significant injury and the Raps told him not to play for the U.S. Olympic Team and he reacted similarly to Garbo, putting national interests ahead of his NBA team obligations?   

Richard E, Toronto

A: I would be absolutely as forgiving of Bosh or anyone in the same situation. But I don’t think it’d ever come to that, Garbo and his desire to play for his country and in his country surpassed any other national-team desire of any American-born player I’ve ever come across. Bosh included.

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Q: Thank you for highlighting the positives of Garbo's buyout. I'm very excited to watch him play for Spain without worrying about how an injury could impact the Raptors season, like I feared every second he played during last summer's EuroBasket tournament.
Now that the Raptors have a job opening for a grizzled, glue guy, Euro-vet, are there any indications Colangelo is targeting Ramunas Siskauskas? It's been a pleasure to watch him compete for his Lithuanian national team and win back-to-back Euroleague titles in 2007 with Panathinaikos Athens, and this year with CSKA Moscow. He'd be a great fit and like Anthony Parker when he signed with Toronto, it looks like Siska has accomplished all he can in Euroleague play. What contract--in terms of years and money--do you think it would take to bring him to Toronto?

Peter A, Vancouver

A: I love Siskauskas’s game but talking to the people whose international basketball knowledge I respect, I don’t think there’s any kind of money or deal that would bring him to the NBA now. And aside from in general conversations about international tournaments and the like, I’ve never heard his name mentioned in Toronto.

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Q: Three questions for you, at least one of them serious. First, now that Corey Maggette is opting out and becoming an unrestricted free agent, how much do you think he will cost and what's the likelihood he ends up in Raptors red?  Secondly, what do you think about bringing Oakley back as a special assistant coach, just to toughen em up?  Finally, is there a number I can call or a petition I can sign to get Hump his minutes back?  Didn't seem he did anything to deserve the benching and no one exactly stepped up.

Dave W, Toronto

A: Considering Maggette’s opting out of $7 million a year, I’m guessing it costs $8-9 million to start on a five-year deal and that’s a pretty hefty price tag.

I got the impression talking to him the other night that Oak’s got a pretty cushy life and is quite enjoying it. I don’t think he wants to be anything more than he is.

Hump is, was and, until they make a move, the fourth big man in the rotation. He’ll get those minutes.

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Q: Hey Doug. If the Raptors draft a center who right away shows more promise at that position than Andrea, where does that leave Andrea? Would you make him a sixth man or trade him. I just don't see him ever becoming the rebounder the Raptors need.

Dan W, Newmarket

A: If they draft a centre this year, that guy is not likely to be anywhere close to being a starter so it’s status quo for now. If, two years from now, let’s say, he’s better than Bargnani, then you might see some moves. But it’s not something that’s going to happen right away.

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Q: Doug, Now that we're fully into the silly season I've got a question about perennial trade-rumour favourite Corey Magette - well not so much about him as about his salary. Let's say he opts out of his contract meaning he is an unrestricted free agent on July 1. Can Toronto still work out a sign and trade with the Clippers in that scenario or are we out of luck unless we figure out a way to sign him as a simple FA (which would be a problem given our proximity to the tax)?

Sam S, Toronto

A: Oh, yeah, they can do a sign-and-trade.

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Q: Hey Doug, here's hoping third time's a charm. You mentioned that your odds on TJ moving are 80-20, I'm assuming that the 20 part is Calderon going in a sign/trade. What could we expect to make Bryan pull the trigger on Jose going that he wouldn't get for TJ? Also, I feel like Kapono could potentially be a killer someday. He just seems to have that intensity about him where he'd love to throw some nails in a coffin. Don't you think it might be wise to do what they did with Barney and just throw him out there and get through the growing pains? He was dead-eye Dick in the playoffs. Methinks he'd look great in a Lakers jersey.

Andrew I, Halifax

A: Actually, of that 20 per cent, I’d say it’s five per cent they move Jose and 15 per cent that they start the season with the two of ‘em and move T.J. during the season. But I think he’s gone long before that.

As I’ll mention in a question further down, Kapono’s going to have a chance to start. It’ll be up to him to win the job.

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Q: Great Blog! While I generally agree with your cantankerous musings, I must disagree with one point regarding AP. I think he's one of the most consistent and talented players on the team who arguably plays the best defense. He's one of the better 3pt shooters in the league and definitely 2nd best on the team (except when Kapono's slumping)...why should he get lumped in with the rest? It's not exactly his fault they completely forget about him on offense while we all sit here and watch Jamario jack 3s.

Matt M, Yarmouth, NS

A: Cantankerous musings? Thanks! A new name for the blog!

I think the concern with Parker’s inconsistency arises from his periodic reluctance to either drive the ball, come of curls and get shots up quickly and his penchant for not having great defensive nights.

But you’re right, of the four, he was by far the most consistent.

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Q: I'm still pretty new to basketball but I was just reading that Zach Randolph has 3 years and $16 million left on his deal. I was just wondering was the extension he got at the time considered reasonable or was everyone in shock when it happened?  I'm pretty sure that LeBron fella isn't making that much

Joseph C, Toronto

A: I don’t know if “shock” was the right word, he’d put up some good numbers in Portland and seemed to be on the verge of being a dominant player.

And, don’t worry, when his time comes, LeBron’s going to get that and more.

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Q: Who, or what, determines who receives the Finals MVP award? I'm looking at the box scores and it easily could've gone to KG or Ray, but why did Pierce get it? Not saying he didn't deserve it or anything, but how is it determined?

Sam C, Kingston

A: It’s a nine-member panel of media members who were covering the final. I didn’t get a vote but I would have given it to Pierce, too. Garnett was too up and down and while Allen was good, he didn’t dominate games like Pierce did.

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Q: So, we keep saying that the number 3 spot needs an upgrade, number 3 needs an upgrade, number 3 needs an upgrade.
For some reason, Kapono seemed like he was the best player on our team in the playoffs.
Dude was hitting.  Perimeter defense wasnt as any worse that anyone else.   He is an accurate shooter that spreads the court and creates space in the middle.
Why so much hate Doug?  How many minutes do you think he is worth on upper level team.

Atif K

A: If you’re talking about an upgrade in athleticism, Kapono is not it. Not even close.

But I do know he’ll be given every opportunity to win a starting job when training camp opens, mainly off his resurgent playoff performance. The only thing we don’t know is who he’ll be competing against.

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Q: With Juan Carlos Navarro going back to play in Europe, does it become official now that the NBA will have a very tough time attracting the top European talent to come over to play to the US? If a top European team is willing to give Navarro 24 millions for 4 years, would there be a another team in Europe willing to pay Calderon for example 8-9 millions per year? Why in the world would the top talented european players would come to play to the NBA when they can get equal or nearly equal money, play closer to home and not to have to worry about a US Dollar going downhill? Think also of Tiago Splitter and other Europeans selected in the draft not willing to come to the NBA for a rookie salary.

Juanes S, Edmonton

A: Very good question and very good points. In fact, I think you’ll see lots of players deciding to stay over there and that’s why teams thinking of drafting Europeans are making sure beforehand that the guy will come.

No one wants a Fran Vazquez situation on their hands.

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Q: A non-Raptors, non-draft related question: How are the Celtics looking for next year? Who's back? Who's gone? etc.

Tim H, Windsor

A: Sam Cassell’s a free agent and is likely gone; James Posey can opt out of his team, I’m hearing he will but he’ll re-sign in Boston; Tony Allen’s a free agent and they may not be able to keep him. Many expect P.J. Brown to re-retire. But the five starters are all back.

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Q: Everything we here about Miami indicates they have no interest in Beasley and desperately want Rose in the backcourt with Wade.  Could this be a ploy by "basketball mastermind" Pat Riley? Could he be downplaying interest in Beasley with hopes that the Bulls bite on Rose, thus letting Beasley drop to no. 2? Or has Beasley's stock legitimately fallen since the end of the college season.

Naweed T, Markham

A: I’ve been telling all of you for weeks, believe very little of what you read or hear around this time of year. Except for what you read here, of course.

So, yes, there is all kinds of posturing and misinforming going on everywhere, Miami included.

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Q: A draft related question and a comment. Bill Walker was in for a work-out but now seems to have fallen off the radar, why? I like his game a lot.
All this talk about Lopez not having range - personally I don't want a centre leaving the key. We need rebounds and defense - not scoring.

Doug S, Peterborough

A: From what I’m hearing, there are concerns about Walker’s knee and whether he’s got a position in the NBA.

And, yes, Lopez does provide those things and would likely usurp Humphries as the fourth big man in the rotation. But he is raw, raw, raw.

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Q: I know you hate trade speculation, and this is probably an exercise in futility.  But what the heck, it's the offseason and there's not much going on.  Here are some FAPs (Frequently Assumed Proposals) on trades involving TJ Ford.  They work under the cap, so let me know which ones you like, which ones are never gonna happen, and anything else:
1. Nene - one extra yearf or an injury prone, but gifted big man.
2. Haslem - not a 5, but he rebounds and defends well and can be the new "Garbo".  Same years and money as TJ.
3. Crawford - imperfect guard for imperfect guard, same # years left and at least he can penetrate and create his own shot.
4. Pryzbilla and Blake (for cap purposes).  Pryz has equal length contract and becomes our best shot blocker and rebounder.
5. Kenny Thomas - take on a shorter deal in return for the talent downgrade, but at least he defends and rebounds.
I HATE the Diaw rumour - don't need another passive, inconsistent big man who has no clear position, especially at the cost of the 1st rd pick when there's some decent talent available in the draft.

S A, Markham

A: This is in now way a suggestion that any of those trade possibilities exist but I’d have it Nene, Haslem, the Portland deal, then Crawford and then Thomas.

But, in any of them, there’d have to be something else coming back.

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Q: I know that a lot of people feel that the raps will select a big in the draft and address a scoring wing player via free agency. Has anyone mentioned Tony Allen with the Raps? It seems to me like his career has taken a few unlucky turns but he has the potential to be a very solid defender and he is a very explosive player on the perimeter.

Matt M, Hamilton

A: Allen’s also always injured, inconsistent when he plays and armed with only the mid-level exception, I don’t imagine the Raptors would want to spend money to sign him.

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Q: I believe the Raps should draft a "big" with their pick as there are so many "bigs" available this year. I like JaVale McGee from Nevada and believe he will still be there at 17 even though much of what I read is that he is a project. In your column this morning Jim Kelly said he would not work out because of passport and "other issues.” Can you enlighten us on those other issues and would the Raps still be considering him?
Thanks,
Paul D, Ajax

A: According to other reports and what I’ve heard myself is that McGee doesn’t want to, or won’t, work out for teams outside the lottery and he may already have a “promise” from some team drafting before Toronto.

So, no, I don’t imagine they’d consider him even on the off chance he was still on the board.

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Q: Do you think the Raptors would be able to keep their 17th pick, make a trade to address the wings and still have a chance (or have enough assets) to get back into the latter part of the first round?  Perhaps around 25 or so.. If they could get a guy like Batum here the Raps would have another young talented prospect for the future. I'd say take him at 17 but I don't think you can justify taking Batum there because they need someone who can contribute right away.  He might become what Joey G could never could.

Mike B, Calgary

A: I’m not entirely sure that whoever they take at No. 17 is going to be able to contribute right away. All the available players have flaws and it’ll take some time to correct them.

As for dealing to obtain another pick? The only way I’d see that being possible is if they want to “buy” one in a trade for the allowable $3 million. But I have to say I haven’t heard that even being whispered about with the people I talk to.

Comments

[Chris S.]

Hey Doug, my question is in regards to Jason Kapono. I noticed last season that when he actually did play he showed he wasn't just a one trick pony (the 3). He showed that he is willing to go to the net and his on ball skills seems decent. I know they would like to see him shooting 3's but I think his game is a little more well-rounded. I know there is questions about his defence but I think he is more of a threat than Parker and he is certainly one of those underutilized players Colangelo was talking about so finally my question, is he capable of being the starting 2 for the Raptors next season? or his he better fitted to the 3?

Blogger's note: Far better as a three; and yes, he's quite capable of starting and will be given every chance to earn the job when camp starts.

[Kevin]

One questions about Brian Colangelo. How much of Phoenix's salary cap hell can be placed at his feet? I have seen Phoenix try to play 7 against 10 in terms of depth through the last few years. They have been unable to retain picks or make free agent upgrades due to cap and luxury tax restrictions.

Blogger's note: It's not cap hell, it's tax aversion. And, yes, he put together much of that roster but the one HUGE salary hit they've got to take for two more years -- the only deal that will hamper them more than any other -- is Shaquille O'Neal, and that's on Steve Kerr. Imagine Phoenix, after this coming season, being out from under Marion's $17 million deal and not having to pay an old centre $42 million over the next two? That's where Bryan had 'em heading.

[Uncle Zeke]

Bryan Colangelo hasn't done a thing without his daddy there to show him the way. Yeah he turned the Phoenix Suns from a 30 win team to a contender. But he's also the one who turned them into that 30 win team. Past gems include moving fan favourite Dan Majerle and a 1st for a washed up Hot Rod Williams. Don't forget that he initially traded Nash away too. He flipped Jason Kidd for Stephon Marbury- nuff said there. He lowballed Joe Johnson and was forced to trade him away. Yeah everyone loved Diaw and the picks at first but now they're trying their hardest to dump Diaw. Imagine the Suns last 2 years with J.J. He dumped multiple picks to save money- one of those picks amounted to Luol Deng!! Then he spends the money he saved by throwing ridiculous contracts at Quentin Richardson, Boris Diaw and Marcus Banks!! What a complete joke!!

Yeah he's done a great job in TO. Came in with huge capspace and a 1st overall pick and turned TO into a team that will be lucky to make the 8th spot in the East next year. Would you trade TO's roster right now for Philly's, Atlanta's, Chicago's or Miami's. Unless your incredibly biased you do that in a second. These are all teams that have passed/ will pass TO on Colangelo's watch.

Please explain how any of the above move show that Colangelo is a great GM. I think it speaks more to how pathetic the Exec. of the year and COY award is (yes S. Mitchell I'm talking to you).

Any response DOug?
Bryan Colangelo is as overrated as JP Ricciardi and we all know how that's turned out.

Blogger's note: My response? I disagree wholeheartedly, as you well knew before you asked? Many of those moves you criticize were ownership driven (Sarver) and financial; sure every GM has skeletons in the trade and draft closet but the simple fact is, the Phoenix team he built wins, and wins a lot.
The "trading" of the roster question is fun, but foolish. The only measuring stick that's worth anything is winning and the fact is Toronto's roster won more than Philly, Atlanta, Chicago or Miami last year. I don't care who's on it, or how it looks on paper, teams are put together to win and Toronto won more.

[bballer]

i read the announcement of colangelo on the board with basketball canada, as well as other luminaries. also, all of the major stakeholders such as adidas, nike and cis will be part of ongoing discussions to grow the game, as well as to change the perception and the culture of the game in canada.

knowing that russia and china is throwing major dollars to develop professional leagues and national teams to rival the leagues in spain, greece, israel and italy. argentina has strong professional representation even though there domestic league is disorganized and oscar is trying to put a strong infrastructure in brazil. canada is even behind england in terms of putting together a contending team with deng, gordon, azuibeke and pops mensah-bonsu in the fold.

So, what do you think bball canada will have to do in order to put a canadian team in medal contention in a future olympics or even the top 10 in the world? what can we as fans of the game do to support our boys?

Blogger's note: That's the toughest question around, how to change Canada's level of success on the international stage.
A short answer -- and I'll get into this much more in the blog when I get a chance, am sorta busy with draft workouts, free agent camps and the national team camp at the moment -- is to have people like yourself, obviously passionate about the game and knowledgeable, teach it to our kids by coaching or whatever, support the national team (men and women) by buying tickets when you can, talking it up, giving the kids who represent the future a reason to want to play for Canada.
We lost a lot of years when Canada Basketball was losing money and prestige across the country, the current group is the strongest management group I can recall in 25 years watching the program and they are going in the right direction. It's going to be hard slogging and I have no idea how successful they'll be but I am confident that the good years for the program are not far off.

[Andrew]

"A 7-footer with legit three-point shooting range is a pretty unique combination that can cause matchup problems.

I can’t think of a specific 7-footer with those kinds of skills, though"

What about Mehmet Okur? Or Rasheed Wallace?

[Kate]

No Canadian NBAers coming up? Oh no Doug, that simply can't be true. I am a Toronto high school teacher and teach a number of future NBA stars. They are so good, in fact, that they don't need to attend my classes! Won't we feel silly when they prove us wrong and are earning millions.

Blogger's note: Ding! Ding! Ding! That's written as someone who tries to show them the folly of their ways, as we all should.

[wood]

Disappointed with the query on BC. Raptor hater? Should KO and Babcock make you happier? Its easy to blame GG for hiring a destructive coach and Babcock on drafting Hoffa and traded VC for some trashes. Its also help nothing to boo TMAC and VC who found no future here (many of us though CB4 would also be gone if not BC).
Seeing Celtics' success, I cannot see any chance for the same to happen here, even with BC.

[Eric]

I agree with Mark M's comments. I'm not surprised that you, Doug, responded the way you did. You didn't really answer the question. That was sort of his point, I think. Colangelo hasn't really done that much, as much as you want to claim otherwise.

Turned Phoenix from a 30-win team into a contender? I guess it depends how you look at it. You could say Greg Popovich turned the Spurs from a 20-something win team to a contender too- ignoring the fact that they had just ONE bad year, and lucked out in the lottery that spring with Tim Duncan. Colangelo's Suns were similar, don't you think? They weren't exactly bottomfeeders like the Atlanta Hawks for 10 years before he took over from his dad. How can he be entirely responsible for that turnaround when they weren't that bad for very long to begin with?

In terms of what he did for the Raptors, yes, he brought in Jorge Garbajosa (who's so good they effectively released him this week), Anthony Parker and Rasho Nesterovic in a year when he had major cap room (and the #1 overall pick) to work with. That's ok- but how can that be great?

Yes, he won EOTY twice- but almost by default, no? Who else was going to win it those years? Someone had to win it. Danny Ainge was on the chopping block 12 months ago and now he's EOTY material- does that mean he's a different man? Or is it that he was underrated last year and overrated this year? I would side with the latter.

You make one decent point in your response to Mark M: Colangelo changed the culture of this team. There are few (if any) others who could've done that. But that has less to do with personnel moves than it has to do with leadership savvy and management charisma. Sure, you can give him credit for that, and he deserves it, but to use that to legitimize the "great moves" he's made is off target. No one has great hair because they have great eyes, so to speak.

Colangelo can hold court in a boardroom, there's no argument. He can make his employees (and beat grunts) feel more important than they would if Rob Babcock was looking at them, too. He has those traits. But in terms of taking a team to the next level AFTER he makes the initial positive impact by wearing fantastic cologne and driving sweet sports cars, well, we haven't seen that yet. Not in Phoenix and not in Toronto. So let's hold back on rewarding the man before he has legitimate, indisputable results to show for himself. I bet he would say the same thing.

[Jeremy]

"If they draft a centre this year, that guy is not likely to be anywhere close to being a starter so it’s status quo for now."

I disagree completely. It's likely that if they pick any of Speights, Hibbert, Jordan or McGee in this centre-heavy draft, their prospect will immediately be better than Bragnani. And the only way they don't address this need is if Colangelo is unwilling to admit mistake. Bargnani is a sunk cost. Let it go, or rather let him go back to the perimeter where he wants to play. I think if the Raptors draft one of these more traditional centres, he could end up starting by the end of the year and the team's other assets, inc. Bosh, will bloom because of it.

[Ruben C]

Sticking with the recent MLSE stategy, I hope the Raps have a horrible start so we can bring Grunwald and Butch....hmmmmmm ok maybe not..! Anyways since the focuse is on management credentials and track record, I just wanted to point out the fact that Wayne Embery did a great job here as Interim GM. His age must be a factor with regards to why he was not hired fulltime. If I'm not mistaken, he is a consultant to BC but i think he took the backseat to Gheradini and that was a mistake in my opinion. I understand BC is Canadian and he frequently dines at Italian restaraunts, drafts an Italian bust, and hires Itlian executives but honestly, i don not think racial standards should impact basketball decisions and some how i feel the italian connection is bias by his regard.

[Dave]

Canadians in the NBA draft. You're probably right, although Devoe Joseph might have a shot in four years. And Ivan Chiralev. The NBA needs him, a 7-footer who can shoot.
I keed, I keed.

[Ovais]

Excellent post, Kevin. Very thought provoking. Yes, the Pied Piper of Phoenix has his own history of flubs. We've seen a few (Fred Jones, Andrea, Jorge) but even the most vicious critic would admit that BC has done alot more good than harm. Babcock paved the way for BC, and he deserves credit for that, but I wouldn't trust him beyond that. BC was exactly what this city needed. Will BC take the Raps to the next level? I dont see them being an elite NBA team next year. Beyond that, who knows?

[tim]

i like how a guy guy, with sooo much accolades like navvaro cant play n the nba, and a guy like moon can, moon has what? 20 points and 8 rebounds like 4 yrs ago??

[Vince]

Can a mid-level exception player have an impact? What about Kelenna Azibuike? Does he fit in that mid-level salary range?

Blogger's note: Fit? If he gets half the mid-level from any team, I'd be stunned after he made about $687,000 last year.

[Jonathan]

I really don't understand all the "hate" for the Raptors, its players or its management. Are you guys acrid from the way the other Toronto organizations are faring, because I can't imagine anyone who is *only* a Raptors fan finding room for so much negativity. Don't call me "easy to please" or "satisfied with mediocrity" as you probably will; those tags are appropriate only for Leafs and Blue Jays fans who refuse to show management enough is enough. Comparing the Raptors to those other teams, or B.C. to J.P., is utterly foolish. Criticizing Garbo's signing because of how his tenure sadly and unexpectedly ended? Ridiculous much?

Yes, B.C. has made questionable moves in the past (Kidd for Marbury, what was he thinking??), some entirely his fault, some due to team mandate, but show me a G.M. with enough seasons in the league who hasn't. Yes, B.C.'s team-building philosophy may run counter to the commonly accepted idea that defense wins championships, but show me another G.M. who's capable of fiscal responsibility and building a contender, and most importantly, was available and willing to come to Toronto. Maybe we should have brought over Dumars. Oh wait, he was stupid enough to draft Darko over Carmelo, and not long before that, picked up Rodney White when J.J., R.J., Gerald Wallace, Tony Parker and Arenas were all still on the board! Thank goodness he wasn't available when the Raptors were looking for a G.M.! Such a shame that the Raptors didn't settle on Dr. J like they should have, with his blank slate and all.

What people forget is how badly the Raptors were floundering as an organization before B.C. There was little to no hope as we had to put up with a downward spiraling team that we ALL knew looked unattractive to top free agents, personnel, etc. Forget about B.C.'s moves or whether we'll win more or fewer games next season; for better or for worse, there is now a sense of legitimacy surrounding the team, and THAT is the most important thing. A G.M.'s job does not begin and end with signing off on roster moves -- he is part talent evaluator, part negotiator, part policy-maker. He is essentially the face of the franchise, as far as other teams and players are concerned. What use is coming up with beneficial trades when other teams refuse to deal with you, or when players don't like the club's culture and refuse to sign? To suggest that B.C.'s reputation should depend more on moves made and not on everything else that makes it all possible in the first place is obtuse.

I have no delusion that B.C. is the best G.M. in the league. Winning Executive of the Year twice is meaningless, as it only means he made the best moves, hires, etc. that particular year, and we all know how seemingly bad executives can all of a sudden win the EOY award, or how a team can go from champion to cellar-dweller. (The only perfect G.M.s are the ones who sit in their lounge chairs confusing their gift of hindsight with natural G.M. ability.) B.C. will have to prove himself year after year, but nobody can deny he is part of the reason for the Raptors' not too distant turnaround and, the team's flaws aside, he refreshingly puts us in position for a positive future. The rest is up to the players.

[Nick M]

Besides the point of changing the culture of the team. Doug did also raise another excellent point about BC, his undeniable respect around the league. That type of respect does not come easy!

[Dan]

Jason Kidd was traded for Marbury, not because BC thought he would be better. But because Kidd was in the papers alot for hitting his wife and BC doesn't want those types of distractions on his team.

[Jonathan]

Jeremy: Was sorta feeling you, until you completely undermined your argument by including Jordan and McGee as centers who could start by season end. Are you so completely blinded by your anti-Bargnani sentiment that you think those two are anything but projects for the future?

[Ro]

Doug what are your thoughts on the Free Agent Camp? Who is looking good? From what i read off of hooplife.ca James White (crazy hops) and Rod Benson were looking good and could very well be on the end of the bench next year.

Blogger's note: Only saw one scrimmage and didn't talk to anyone Sunday night to fnd out who looked best but from what I saw, Benson and Tamar Slay stood out.

[Lucky in Markham]

Colangelo's entire rep, the whole thing, is based on ONE move. The Steve Nash signing. And that was at least partially a lucky break. Don't forget that Dallas had the chance to match the offer and decided not to. Sure BC made it harder to match by going high, but that does not change the fact that PHX would be nowhere without Nash. And that was out of BC's control.

BC also handed out some bad deals like to QRich and Diaw. He throws money around for mediocre players. And when they needed big man help the best he could do is get Kurt Thomas from the Knicks who had just been given an ugly extension that was thought untradeable.

And in Toronto he landed in an ideal spot with a franchise player on a rookie deal, huge capspace thanks to Rob Babcock dumping VC, and the number 1 pick in the draft. That kind of capspace is very rare to have, and what did BC get with it? A couple of solid veteran Euro role players. Even the Nesterovich trade was started by Babcock the year before and it was the small contracts Babs brought in that made it possible once the Spurs were ready to let him go.

As for changing the culture Sam Mitchell and Jose Calderon had a lot to do with that as well, both Babcock moves. BC brought the 'winning the press conference' moment that Jack Armstrong talks about. He is mostly image, with some substance, but not in line with the hype.

We will never know, but its possible the Raps would be in much better shape had Babcock been allowed to deal with Zo as he wanted, done the Jalen trade on his terms, and use the pick and cap space as he had planned. Babs did all the hard work that allowed BC to step into a dream spot and have a 'big turnaround' into a low playoff seed with little upside.

Babs was just bad with the media and followed the advice of McCloskey in drafting Hoffa. MLSE let Babs wash the car and gas it up, but never let him drive.

[Vince]

Thank you Jonathan for eloquently (and undeniably) refuting the unsubstantiated arguments of the few who feel Bryan Colangelo doesn't know what he's doing. You're absolutely right in stating that any GM who has been in the biz for long enough is bound to have a few blemishes on his track record.
The credibility he brings is an immeasurable advantage in terms of trade possibilities (and the value the Raptors get in return).

As for Azibuike, if he's so cheap, why hasn't his name come up around the league? From what I've seen of him, he brings fantastic athleticism, tremendous upside, and much youth to the table. Or is it that low-money players are put on the back-burner until the big names are "taken care of"?

[Gonzo]

Now maybe I am remembering wrong (or just never had it right in the first place) but didn't Kidd get in trouble for beating his wife, essentially forcing BC to move him because the fan base wanted nothing to do with him (Kidd that is).

And hell he turned Starbury into the cap space he used to resign Nash. So points for recognizing and fixing a bad move. As for initially tading Nash, well I recall that Dallas fans were so upset by that deal they were booing him at first, so I don't think he had shown he was a 2 time MVP then...

[Uncle Zeke]

"Many of those moves you criticize were ownership driven (Sarver) and financial"

Doug, you've bought into the spin of the Colangelo apologists hook, line and sinker... Everyone always discounts BC's bad Phoenix moves as being ownership and financially driven. However most GM's in the league operate under the same financial restrictions of avoiding the luxury tax. Very few teams exceed it and very few by much.

What destroys your theory is that Colangelo dumped all those high 1st round picks (that turned into Luol Deng, etc.), then turns around and signs guys like Quentin Richardson and Marcus Banks to big long-term deals. These players, and their contracts, are now seen as terrible and impossible to move. He alienates a supreme talent in Joe Johnson that might have won Phoenix a title in the last 3 years, then throws big money at Boris Diaw. Another bad contract that they now would like to dump. He trades for Kurt Thomas- on a big deal- a contract they later have to send with multiple 1st rounders in order to dump.

What this shows is that BC had plenty of money to throw around- he just did it stupidly and sacrificed multiple high 1st round picks to do it.

Lastly if ownership is so cheap in Phoenix- then why was Kerr allowed to bring in Shaq at 20 million a year for the next 2 years for a contract in Marion that would most likely be an expiring (because Marion could not wait to get out of Phoenix).

Any response Doug? I think this clearly shows that BC had money to spend and just spent it poorly. Myth-busted!!

Blogger's note: Nope, no response. Your opinion is your opinion and you're welcome to it.

[Bo Klymkiw]

The perfect storm looks good except for one thing, - what about a substitute PG to join Calderon? Maybe re-sign Delfino, but to play PG full-time?

Blogger's note: Or Ukic if they work out his buyout or some veteran out there they could get for the minimum or part of the mid-level

[Bill]

Hey Doug,

I was wondering if you could update us on the status of Rokko Ukić. If the Raps are able to trade Ford, are they planning on bringing Rokko over to serve as the team's back up point guard? There has been a lot of talk about how good Rokko is. What are your thoughts on him? Thanks Doug.

Blogger's note:I'm going to have to get to all the questions in the morning blog. Too many for here and too much other stuff to do at the moment.