The rookie, the fans, and the fun in Philly

Join Doug Smith for a live Q&A at noon today, as the Raptors prepare to take on the Philadelphia 76ers.

You know the one thing I like about Super Dog?

She/it dislikes the cold as much as I do so walks are shorter and more infrequent. Good Super Dog.

And it allows me more time for stuff like this …

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Lots of questions here and there about DeMar DeRozan and where he is in the development of an NBA rookie, lots lately on why he doesn’t play in the fourth quarter very often.

The reason? From this angle?

He’s not ready.

Yes, he’s been better lately shooting jumpers and he’s looking a wee bit more comfortable offensively and he seems to be a bit more aggressive rebounding, although there’s still lots and lots of work to do in that regard.

Watch him closely sometimes. He’s going to the offensive glass but sometimes mis-timing jumps and he’s not a very good rebounder in traffic at the other end, either. His tendency to leak out drives coaches batty.

Defensively, he still gets caught up in screens too often and loses his man every now and then.

But, all in all, he’s coming along. Those are typical rookie gaffes and not at all unexpected.

I think the 20 minutes a night he's playing is about right, he’s getting those minutes when the little, predictable rookie mistakes he makes won’t kill his team and he’s better today than he was on opening night.

And, frankly, you can’t argue with success.

There may be those clamouring for more of him in the fourth quarter of games but the way the Raptors are playing over the last dozen games shows that whatever they do rotation-wise works.

The kid, a hard-working and studious 20-year-old who spends a lot of time with coaches going over video of offence and defence, is being handled quite well, in my opinion.

There may be a time to stretch him out; that time has not arrived yet.

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So I’m glancing over the statistics and I notice – professionally trained observer that I am – that Jason Kapono hasn’t played more than 19 minutes in a game in a month, he hasn’t made more than one three-pointer in a game in a month and it got me thinking:

Maybe the trade for Reggie Evans is a wash.

The Raptors are getting some assistant coaching and cheerleading out of Reggie; not sure what all Jason – who I presume remains one of the top quotes around – is giving the Sixers.

The edge in sartorial splendidness, however, must go to Kapono.

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Chat today at noon, okay?

I’ve got some stuff to do, a story for Sunday to finish off and, apparently, a driveway to shovel this afternoon and could use the extra hour.

Oh, and we’ll be here for the game, too, right about 7 p.m.

I will say your attendance numbers have been good of late, now that they’re winning and all. We were close to 700 for the chat the other day, I see, and somewhere north of 2,200 for the game.

Way to go, folks.

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I’m sure many of you have seen the stuff about the last all-star balloting and how Tracy McGrady is still among the West starters in fan voting and, if the game was held tomorrow, Allen Iverson would line up to start for the East.

To which I will just say; Fans are nuts.

This is all on them.

Why in the world anyone would sit with a ballot or a laptop or a mobile phone or whatever method of voting they choose and punch, click, text either of those names is absolutely stunning to me.

After all, Steve Nash or Tony Parker or Chris Paul are on the ballot alongside McGrady, why in the world would any vote for Tracy over any of them.

And Iverson? Well, that’s equally stupid.

I don’t imagine the NBA will change the process, it is a lark after all and I guess taking it seriously just creates personal concern best left to matters of real importance – like when I’m going to go shovel the drive again.

But it does make me question the intelligence of some people and whether or not there needs to be a change.

I’m thinking maybe they use the fan vote for, I don’t know, something like 75 per cent of the final total and use either coaches or a panel of us to take up the other 25 per cent.

I wonder what’s going to happen if Nash, who is about 2,000 votes behind McGrady, doesn’t catch the currently idle Rocket.

Will McGrady show up, despite languishing at home, having walked out on his team to sit and wait for a trade?

How embarrassing will that be for everyone concerned?

The best thing possible is that the Rockets find a way to finalize whatever McGrady deal they’ve got going and ship him to the East, where his vote total will leave him out of the starting lineup.

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Things I miss not being in Philly: Seeing My Man Jasner.

The Palm.

Running into Ed Pinckney and Gary McLain one night in said steakhouse and listening to stories. Same with Billy King, who was a regular and a really, really good guy.

Oh, and Yeungling. Ah, Yeungling.

And the fans. Oh, the fans,

We used to sit courtside, right beside the Raptors bench and, let me tell you, they were a funny bunch.

In one game, back in the 16-66 year, they were often in rare form.

One night, this leather-lung about four rows back yells:

“Hey, Butch, your team’s five years away from being five years away.”

Later, in the same game if I recall correctly, Reggie Slater, one of the good guys, is as the table to check in. Another voice, loud:

“Reggie! I saw your game … on a milk carton.”

That’s pretty good.

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Speaking of Philly, here’s one of the stories in one of the papers this morning.

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Just because I want to, and because I’m sure dozens of you haven’t slept since Tuesday wondering, here’s a Pops update.

Nothing.

He’ll clear waivers today, there isn’t a team out there who wants to make a claim and the best money for him, I’m told, remains in Europe.

I think there’s waning interest on a 10-day deal here because, really, what’s the sense?

Anyway, figured you’d want to know.

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You know, of course, that the African Cup of Nations starts Sunday and the Black Stars open against Togo on Monday.

Just making sure you were up to date.

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One last public call for mail. Haven’t looked closely but think there’s room left to send the questions – and, please, I beseech you, no game-specific, “why did they do this” stuff, it’s not really timely.

Thanks.

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Comments

[Doug]

If McGrady moved to the East he would not be in the forwards group against Lebron and Garnet - he'd be against the guards like DWade and AI.

Blogger's note: Right, misread it; the fix isn't up yet, I guess

[Boko]

Fan votes ... ahhh ... By definition, half the fans are below average in intelligence, so what should we expect? This all reminds me of my high-school football coach. He had the entire team elect a captain the day before our first game. Then he told us, that's one vote. The other vote was his, and the assistant coach was the tie-breaker. That all taught me a valuable lesson in when and wear to apply the strict rules of democracy. The NBA seems to need to learn the same lesson ...

[Dave]

Doug, for the mailbag or just for here, but a question about DeMar DeRozan, or some observations anyway: I want to preface by saying I'm a minor fan of his and I'm a fan of the pick - he's who I would have taken at 8th if I made the big bucks and I'd be happy with that.

On to the point: I'm trying to figure out where the difference comes between players like DeMar, Jason Richardson, Rudy Gay and a guy like Vince Carter. Those 3 guys have all had "jaw-dropping athleticism" used to describe them at one point, are all within an inch or two of V.C and all have a vertical jump supposedly again within an inch or two. They're amazing athletes but subjectively they don't seem to come close (at least, in the early years). Is it just me? Is it just the "smoothness" that V.C goes about things with (maybe the same smoothness that is dangerously close to nonchalantness)? Is it just a "thing" that is reserved for players like V.C, Dr. J, and a small number of other players known by their initials?

Blogger's note: I am going to move this to the mail; it probably deserves a longer answer than I could give here.

[DougG]

"After all, Steve Nash or Tony Parker or Chris Paul are on the ballot alongside McGrady, why in the world would any vote for Tracy over any of them."
.

My understanding is he is huge in China and the fans over there are very loyal.

[Phil]

Is Pops on the team of coloured superstars? (Black Stars?)

I know he is British, just the two so close to each other seems a little insinuating...although I have little idea who the real Black Stars are.

Blogger's note: The Black Stars are Ghana's national football team, a personal fave

[Chris]

Is there any where to order raptor jerseys online other than the NBA store?

Blogger's note: No idea. People? Can you help?

[Pablo E]

Re: Three things...
I like it the way it's now, but, if you want a small change, add "And one thing I'd like to forget". I'm sure there is at least one eye-burning moment, even in the best of games.
Keep the great work.

[AS]

3 days without a Doug Smith article in mother star sports... have u been demoted to internet grunt or just being lazy? :P

Blogger's note: I wish. Just took a trip out.

[Dallas]

Hi Doug,

I'm just wondering, in your opinion, how much of the Traino playing Jose - Jack together is for better basketball, and how much of it is the coaching staff hoping it works so that it makes getting minutes for both Jack and Jose easier?

Seems to me the reason Jay has given in the past about the extra ball handler is puzzling when now we also want Hedo to have the ball in his hands as much as possible. I suppose one could say they are the better long range bombers, but Beli and Wright could do some of that and maybe provide the defense that based on his off/def subs seems to realize is an issue. And the results haven't really been all that positive, at least to me anyway. If Jack or Jose make for the best 2 guards, why don't we play them there? If the coaching staff feels it's the best lineup, why only go to it late? and have Banks get some more burn at back up pg?

If the plan is for Derozan to eventually be the 2, which I believe is the case, and we plan to keep Marco, this can't be looked as a sustainable situation, looking ahead to next year. With both Jose and Jack under contract for a while, if any part of of is to placate players as opposed to winning basketball games, or even if it's just to try and please the players when we can do so and not be in danger of losing the game, I can't see how that's positive. No one said coaching in the NBA was easy.

I know some may think this is 100% about putting the best lineup on the floor to close games, and in no part about finding a way to get players with big contracts minutes, for the sake of getting them minutes. But I think if we're in a situation where that part of it factors in I think that's an undue burden for Triano. Would it not be, form a resources point a view, not a "this player is garbage point of view", better to alleviate the coaching staff from that perceived responsibility and either stand behind him and say play the best lineups and the players will just have to deal with it, or to make a trade to alleviate the issue.

From my perspective, I like the job Jack and Banks have done in José's absence. I see a hole at back up sf, and we will likely be without a draft pick next year, and have a lot of money already under contract. If there's a log jam at pg, is that not reason enough to look to make a move to even out the roster?

I don't think he's a liability as some have suggested, and I think your observation about how no one else can makes that kick out to Bargs that netted us six big points is correct, but you have to give something to get something.

Let me say, if it wasn't for the need some for some reason to play the Jack and Jose at the same time, then I'd be super content with the production we get out of the 13 mil or so we spend on the pg spot (not counting Banks)
going forward no matter who starts. My concern is if the situation is presenting some hurdle for the coach in regards to putting the best lineup out there to close games for basketball reasons. Many stats show that the 2 pg line up is actually one of our poorer lineups on both offense and defense. I just get the feeling they keep throwing it against they wall hoping it sticks to make their lives easier in regards to minute distribution.

I know you may take a shot at my for suggesting a Jose trade, like the millions of others you've seen, but some of your colleagues have, and would you have the same opinion of their acumen?

Cheers

Blogger's note: It's really quite simple and I'll say it once again -- sighing -- I don't think they should, or will, trade Jose and I disagree with anyone who suggests otherwise.

[Dallas]

In regards to Chris's question, I've had success ordering from Centre sports via telephone. Quick and painless, and likely the best selection. But lacks the ability to view and select like a website does. But if you know what you want, it works.

Centresports Store

Phone: (416) 815-5746

Store hours of operation:
Monday-Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Cheers

[Peter]

Raptor's Jersey's online: You might want to try ebay. If you're looking for an "authentic" jersey, be very careful about what you buy online.

[bel]

Do you know why Shawn Marion didn't come back to the Raptors? Were the Raptors not interested or did Shawn prefer to play somewhere else?

Blogger's note: Equal parts

[DS]

I respect ur opinion about Demar but the other night while watching the Orlando game (I think) a good observation was made by Devlin, that when Demar scores in double figures the team is like 12-0. Clearly T.O needs a little production from the 2 spot and if there could be a bit more consistency we could win a few more games. So basically Demar needs to develop quicker to give us a real shot.

[James C.]

It took a little while but I believe we have a slightly taller version of Fred Jones with Demar Derozan. Besides the over the basket athleticism and their below average defensive abilities, both are challenged on their mid range and 3pt shooting (their technique are also so similar). Of course Doug you're going to say we've to be patient and let him develop but the fact of the matter still is that Colangelo screwed up again by not taking Brandon Jennings. Imagine what a game changer we could have with Brandon coming off the bench for the Raps??!!

[Fred]

remember when Vince was voted in as a started and EVERYBODY in the media and even some players forced his hand on giving it up for some dude named Michael Jordan. (2003?) I can see the point, but then why have fans vote the starters?

If Iverson and McGrady remain in first, will the same media folk surround them and say Steve Nash or Chris Paul deserve the start and every other Eastern guard is more worthy than AI?

Bigger question, will the two players accept that they shouldn't have been voted in and be gentlemen and step aside?

[Paul]

what is the latest on Reggie? (sorry for asking, but I haven't heard anything since the turn of the decade).

Blogger's note: Nothing new. Trust me, when there is, you'll find out

[Jim]

Yes there is a number of sites that sell sports jersey's. Replica's, personal made jersey's, different coloured jersey's....they are every where just look through Google - too many to list.

[James]

Doug,

I am with probably part of the minority, yourself included, that believe that Derozan is right on track with where his development should be. He is showing signs of his future impact, but he is probably a few more years away from being where the team wants him to be. As the team is currently constructed, he would never be considered a primary option on offence, and would be more than likely the 4th or 5th scoring option anyways.

My main comment is, alot of people are trying to compare him to V.C. based on him athleticism, which could be fairly accurate, but as an overall player, and career trajectory, I think that would be very naive, and unfair to Demar. Who would best compare him to style-wise, and a best guess at careen trajectory? In terms of his development, as being drafted on pure raw talent, I tend to look more to the career of Marvin Williams so far. Would that be a fair assessment?

Cheers

J

[Dan W]

Here is Matt Bonner's blog based on finding the perfect sandwich. It's kind of of funny and interesting if you enjoy sandwhiches.
http://www.nba.com/spurs/features/100104_sandwich_pg2.html

[Jim]

"Defensively, he still gets caught up in screens too often and loses his man every now and then".
So does Jose Calderon and he gets paid 8 million to do so. Double D will be a good player, you can see it in his make up. Bargnani had the same make-up when he was a rookie so did Jose Calderon - it is just a matter of learning some things and feeling comfortable with it to expand his talents, then apply them consistantly. He will be a all-star one day...Book it!

[Tiger]

Sometimes the imp in me likes to see a train wreck (figuratively speaking, that is).
The funniest thing would be if Houston decides to eat McGrady's contract and put him on waivers and he goes past the all-star break unclaimed, but tops the balloting.
So who does he represent? Maybe they make him dress in a white numberless uniform to represent purgatory.
(But I suppose he'd represent Houston, a last-touched rule kind of thing.)
My bigger worry would be the NRA stuffing ballot boxes.
Which wouldn't be funny in the least.

[Rob.V]

Iverson and McGrady should absolutley start. Maybe this way the league would actually realize that they need to fix the problem.

I wont go on as huge a rant as yesterday however again, Stern is so worried about the leagues (and his) image however to anyone who takes the sport of Basketball seriously (like Doug and me..and others I'm sure) this is an absolute embarrassment.

Anyone who follows the NBA realizes that it's NOT the fans fault, nor is it the players. It's simple, get the system right.. and you wont have these ridiculous scenarios. It's embarrassing for EVERYONE!

The fans vote should only count towards say the "sentimental" vote i.e a Jordan of the past. Let us vote in one player in both the East and West (that may include a player previously not selected by the so called "experts").

As currently structured it also puts the players in an awkward position of having to chose between what's right.. and their fans.

But to be clear, this is NOT the fans fault. Fans will never be as in tune as GM'S, coaches, or media. For the league to assume this is silly!

[Dallas]

Blogger's note: It's really quite simple and I'll say it once again -- sighing -- I don't think they should, or will, trade Jose and I disagree with anyone who suggests otherwise.

I read your stuff every day Doug, I know you don't, and when someone's says that with no idea what the trade is for, I question the logic, of such blanket positions, unless the player is an MVP caliber. but - sighing- I digress. I get the feeling that at times just becasue a reader disagrees, you take it as we're being a jerk. You called me Eric a long while back and I felt that was uncalled for. Does it annoy you to be disagreed with?

Anyway I was hoping to get your opinion on whether playing them together is at all about just finding a way to get guys minutes than for reasons of a better lineup on the floor. Maybe by being so overly verbose in my post that question was lost. If you feel like answering, I'd like to hear what you think about that question.

Thanks again,
Cheers

Blogger's note: He plays them together because he believes that gives the team the best chance to win. Pure and simple.
And I have no problem being disagreed with; it happens with great regularity but, and I've said this before, I think a lot of poeple -- not you specifically -- don't accept other points of view, they want validation for theirs.

[greg]

if you want to know how smart fans are on average, particularly south of the border, take a look at the comments section of any sports story on espn.com, if they vote i would say T-Mac being in the game as a starter as well as A.I. makes a lot of sense.

[George]

I feel that the Jose-Jack backcourt is more of a trust thing with Triano. He expects Jack to make better decisions than Wright, Belinelli, DeRozan, or Weems. With Jack handling the ball, Jose can be the spot-up shooter, which back-fired last game but I can see Triano wanting to run that more often than not. Not a fan of it, but still see those two with the front court starters as the best five to close out a game.