It's all about the reaction, and a trip down memory lane

Rainy Black Friday morning here, bet the people who’ve been lined up to shop for hours are feeling quite wonderful.

Hahahahaha.

(I hate shopping, by the way. And crowds. And lineups. And people. Well, maybe not all people.)

Anyway …

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I think we can all agree that one of the more surprising things about last Sunday’s win was the, um, fight these guys showed. There were times when the Raptors have cowered at the sight of the Celtics or at least backed down and there was none of that in that game.

Blow lead, get down late and still come back? Unheard of.

Bargnani going right at KG? Shooting 13 free throws? Creating shooting space by pulling the ball through on tight defence with elbows swinging? Doesn’t happen.

And I guess that’s what makes tonight kind of interesting.

Will they still have that determination on the road? Against a very good team bent on revenge?

This was Jay after practice Thursday:

“The Celtics have tried a lot of times to jump on you early and get into you physically and you’ve got to weather that initial burst, not back down, not show any sign of weakness and then play possession by possession.”

Now, this is one game and all, and it’s not going to determine an awful lot but, still, it’s interesting.

And, aside from the aberration in Washington, the HOTH have shown to be quite competitive on the road – win in Orlando, the Laker game, final three quarters in Utah, first half in Sacramento, stayed with the Heat – and it’s kind of become what you expect.

That’s entirely new.

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Last shot, kids.

Contest. Here. Now. Noon (Eastern time) deadline so get cracking if you already haven’t.

The stakes are high, 10 tickets to Sunday’s game, a box, comfy seats, vouchers for drinks, food and the ride back home and wonderful prelude to the big football game.

I’m told by the Powers That Be that the winner will be informed this afternoon some time and I’ll have a name in the morning.

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If this is a road trip, it must be memories time.

(And it must be a road trip because I can’t find Harpoon IPA or a Legal Seafood in my neck of the woods)

Anyway …

The Gruesome Night.

We all have those moments that stick with us for bad reasons, right? Well, I’ve got the Garbo injury indelibly etched in my mind and it speaks volumes about what kind of guy he is.

Late March, 2007, pretty much a nothing game, a play he could have let develop but, no, Garbo hustles and tries to block a dunk and we all know what happened.

Truly a turning point not only for that season but for the next one or two; I wonder what the future would have been like had that one play not happened.

Now, back then, we sat at the far baseline from where the fall happened by even 120 feet away, you could tell how ugly it was.

Don’t think I’ll ever forget it.

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Skip’s done?

Hey, remember the night Sam – bless his soul – banished Rafer and Lorne Loren Woods to the locker room after they got technicals? Thought Sam might slug them on the bench and that would have been cool, indeed.

Anyway, we’re talking to Rafer after the game (I don’t remember even looking for Lorne, he was so inconsequential to the whole event) and Skip drops this bomb on me and Stumpy, or words to this effect: “I may be done. I don’t know if me and the NBA are made for each other.” Well, a kid quitting or threatening to is pretty big news and we’re wandering around looking for reaction (Sam’s long gone by now) and there’s good old Jalen, who’s always ready with a quip and his relationship with Rafer is, um, strained and we figure he’ll give us something great

Us: “Hey, Jalen, Rafer said he might quit.”

Him: “That’s strong.”

Story written.

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That’s some debut

It’s the start of the lockout shortened 1998-99 season and the Raptors, with this young Carter fellow looking like he might actually be a player, are here to finally open the season.

And sure enough, a guy in his debut with Toronto has a huge game.

Dude by the name of Willis, Kevin Willis.

The Big Fella goes off for 28 points and 16 rebounds as the Raptors win easily.

And a legend is born.

Not quite as legendary as the Carter kid turned out to be but still pretty good.

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What’s up in Boston?

Let’s see what Murph wrote on the big holiday.

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This is a somewhat topical thing out of the mail on a point I was going to bring up:

Oh yeah, probably your last kick at the mail, too. Click here, please.

Q: Hi Doug. Thanks for the IGB Thingy -- I missed seeing the game live the other night and it was a pleasure to read through the blog afterwards and get a feel for the game. (Kinda of missed the other irregulars too ... go figure)

Here's the question. I saw a little news item stating that Marcus Banks wasn't going to be reporting to the Hornets after all and they were still responsible for his contract. Can you find out some more information about that? I liked the guy - he always seemed ready to play and while his minutes were limited - he never seemed to hurt us when he was in the game. It's a shame if things aren't working out for him in the trade.

 

 

Brenda C, Sault Ste. Marie

A: Yes, that is indeed the case with Marcus. By mutual agreement, even before the trade was official, it was decided he wouldn’t report – the Hornets waived the reporting and physical exam requirements of the deal – but they aren’t about to waive him yet, I’m told.

His value now is only as a trade chip with his contract and New Orleans isn’t about to make any kind of move until February after the deadline.

And, yes, he did play kind of okay when he was here in such a limited role but the coaching staff didn’t trust him to have the discipline to run the offence or carry out the defensive assignments they wanted, which is another reason why didn’t play.

Frankly, I will be absolutely stunned if he’s in any team’s camp next year on anything other than a non-guaranteed, minimum-salary contract.

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We’re talking to Jerryd Bayless after practice yesterday and he says he felt great Wednesday because Jay told him just to go out and play, have fun, shoot when you’re open.

He asked when the last time he had that freedom and when he said “college” my eyes widened.

This kid went to Arizona when Kevin O’Neill was there and I know KO pretty well and “freedom” is not something he gives to his players. Yeah, Jerryd admits, maybe it wasn’t in the KO era and then he says this:

“KO is obviously a tough-minded guy but me and KO have developed our relationship better since I left college.”

And I’m thinking, yeah, bet a lot of his former players say that.

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Comments

[Scott]

Definitely one of the biggest "what ifs" in Raptor history is the Garbo injury. He was the dirty work player that those Raptors needed and missed him for the next couple of years. Guys like that are a glue that helps mold contenders.

[Lorne K]

It is "Loren Woods", not "Lorne Woods". Trust me.

[sam]

Is Rafer even in the league any more?

Blogger's note: Nope

[JHK]

I always thought it was Loren Woods... hmm
Didn't like how you could not enter an extension number to a phone number for the contest... I had to put in my cell number.

[painsev]

Morning Doug,

This game with the Celtics will be a good test after the cakewalk last game. If they lose, who cares as long as they play hard and compete. I think that this young squad should be fine. I hope that Derozan can do something. Ray hasn't been playing well of late so he may get an opportunity to try and attack early and make Allen work hard on defense. The Ex factor is Shaq. Coming off a big game the other night they might ride him tonight and put Andrea in early foul trouble. Garnett at the 4 will have trouble with an active Regend ready to pounce. Tough game. Nate usually shows Jose what time it is. We'll see what happens tonight.

[Gavin Davidson]

Great content, Doug. But I don't know how close to home I'd be getting with a $5 taxi voucher. And maybe try to ease up on the skill testing question - my brain hurts now.

[Lorie]

Hey Doug,
So you're in Boston on Black Friday and not doing that Scratch Thing in Filene's Basement (not as gross as it sounds)? Talk about a missed "cultural" opportunity!!! At least tell us you indulged in something fabulously Beantown at Legal Seafood!!! (Their divine swordfish, perhaps?)

Blogger's note: Great chowder and shrimp stuffed with crab; a tradition. And I've been to Filene's Basement, once was quite enough

[John]

While it is not good etiquette to pick on someone after they are gone, it does seem more than a coincidence that so far without CB, the Raptors seem to be better defensively this year. They seem stronger in the middle and do not get outrebounded every game. Miami on the other hand is having the same problems the Raptors had last year, no interior defense and bad rebounding. The common element is... CB4.
He was called the Rue Paul of big men, and while you may or may not agree with everything Shaq says, his opinion is rarely completely out of touch.
Maybe CB and Andrea were closer to the being the same type of player than was recognized? Non physical, perimeter oriented bigs who are not great defenders?

[Raptoronto]

LeBron as a baby...cute but full of "quitness".

http://bit.ly/cIr7U1

[Dallas]

Hi Doug,

We've been in all games but one, where as last year we were blown out on the regular, and were flirting with historically bad defense. I think of our record now, and our record this time last year, they're about the same, and we've had a much tougher sched. Do you agree that this team is playing like it might be even better than last years?

Blogger's note: Lately, they've been good. Tough to say how long it continues

Cheers

[LeeZ]

Doug, it is indeed a sad indictment on our education system (and indeed on the moral fabric of our society) when fans of your blog have trouble answering a piddling little math question! As a point of honour, I calculated it in my head, and it took me all of five seconds! (Did I check my calculation afterward with a calculator? Yes I did. But that's beside the point!) Something to look for in tonight's game: last time they met, Barbosa had a lot of success pushing the ball (even off of Celtic made baskets) for easy transition points. But after the Celts had been burned a few times, they made sure that Nate R. pressured the inbounds pass every time, and that was the end of that. We'll see if the Celts do that from the get-go tonight.

[kelsey]

Thats one thing I liked about Sam Mitchell, straight to the point. lol Rafer quiting league comment and Vince's not sure he will dunk anymore are classic stories in Raptors history.

Garbo was certainly a what if, he was rugged,tough,skilled and solid piece player that NBA teams require.

Bayless looked really good, Im glad that that Triano is giving him this opportunity,

[Zombywoof]

I didn't enter the contest. One game against Atlanta isn't worth years of telemarketing and junk mail from the Mother Corp.

Blogger's note: Well, thanks for sharing that.

[Geoff Read]

Hi Doug,

I'll expect my phone call this afternoon then. Just kidding - I never win anything. Bad luck I guess.

Isn't it Phylene's Basement? I was there this summer - what an amazing store. I bought all the work clothes I'll need for the next few years for something like $300. Still, I'm with you: I hate crowds, I hate shopping, and at times I think I might just be a misanthrope.

I loved Garbo - he was a player you had to like who contributed in all kinds of ways that didn't show up on the scoresheet. His injury was the beginning of the end for what seemed like a promising team at the time. He also, btw, put the lie to the Euro-haters' talk out there that Europeans are too soft to play in the NBA. Just like they're too soft to play in the NHL I guess.

[Pipit]

Garbo is overrated. He's too slow to guard 3's and too small to defend 4's. It is what it is. Even without the injury, he's still be back in Europe after a brief stint in the NBA. He's outside shooting is inconsistent too. Just an overrated guy in Toronto where people values people who do the dirty work. The guy has minimal skill to compete at a high level. Tell me if I'm wrong Doug.

[Pipit]

Doug, what's happening with Bosh? It seems like almost everybody is under this guy right now. Why is it that this kind of behavior didn't leak in Toronto? Is it because he's image was protected before? During his stay here, he had a good guy image but now he's portraying the villain image with all the immature comments and the setbacks on his team mainly blame on him.

[Zombywoof]

Sorry Doug, I guess I'm a little jaded after all these years. It's a great prize for anyone who doesn't get to see a live game often. Whoever wins will have a ton o' fun. Atlanta will be on the tail end of a back-to-back on the road, and they've lost seven of their last ten. Also, they're playing in the afternoon in NYC, so that means they'll hit TO with plenty of time to sample the legendary nightlife in Vegas North. Looks like a winnable game to me. :) Oh, and I worked for the Mother Corp myself back in the early seventies and I loved every minute. It was a great place to work. Now then, lets get down to business and knock the stuffing out of Boston tonight!

[kelsey]

I didnt get to finish earlier comment,

Doug hopefully not celebrating too much of that Murderous holiday they call Thanksgiving.. I know the Native/Indegious people of that land dont feel the same thanks giving!!!

Back to sports

Another test for Raptors, hopefully Rondo sits another game out.

Also wanted to say the Heat are certainly getting the Heat. Bosh is certainly not stepping up but really its the whole team, Lebron and wade are not playing well together, its one take it or the other. Only exception is on fast brakes.

I must say though, I still like Bosh but he really isnt playing like a big man on that team. Media pressure I'm sure that Spolestra wont last if this continues. Man guys on TNT are hammering them.

[Jeff D]

Ok, I believe the contest is over. I'll be sitting at my desk all afternoon waiting for your call Doug. Thanks,

[Scott]

Sorry Pipit, I think you are wrong. Overrated? Depends on how you are rating him. Too many people are stuck on the flash, not being a good basketball team. Every contender has a "hard hat" guy who may be slow and/or small but do things that the superstars don't do. Guys like Oakley, Kendrick Perkins, Ben Wallace, The Regend, Kurt Rambis etc, are slow, small for their position and would not make the NBA on their "skills" alone but are essential on teams. Pieces not individuals win. How are things in Miami?

[GM]

"Blogger's note: Great chowder and shrimp stuffed with crap; a tradition." Yum! Sounds like a wonderful tradition! (I'm hoping that was a typo.)

You know things are going well when Kelsey writes a comment without slagging either Bargnani, Calderon or Colangelo. Thankfully we have Pipit to keep it negative, even if he has to go back a few seasons.

Blogger's note: Typo since fixed. Thanks

[Ryan]

Hi Doug,

Love the blog, it's part of my daily routine.

Regarding the Garbo injury.. I indirectly blame Bosh for the injury. I distinctly remember (I think) the play right before the injury, Garbo’s missed an assignment and the player scored on Bosh…or something like that. Bosh ripped into Garbo and you could tell that he took off to block the dunk simply to shut Bosh up (or to make amends for his mistake)…. Do you recall that since you were there…or was that a figment of my imagination. I wish I could find footage of that game.

Keep up the great work!

Blogger's note: I don't recall that

[Bakedpot8o]

Whil Garbo didnt have great numbers for the Raps, he was a critical part of the team that got the 3rd seed in the east in 2007 playoffs. He was just one of those glue guys that know how to cement team defence, was willing to hustle for loose balls, box out, take charges and do all the dirty work that doesnt show up on the stats sheet. There are a few posters that are slagging his natural ability, but I would speculate that these people either didnt watch alot of Raptor games or dont know basketball period. He was the reason their second unit didnt give up alot of buckets.

To have a succesful team, you have to have some defined role players, that know their role and dont try to go beyond it. I always looked at Chris Humphries as one of those guys that could have been the perfect role player, but bc of his history as a "scorer" (check his high school stats), always tried to do too much with the ball and was a detriment to the team. This year's team has (finally) defined roles for players, and that is a big part of their recent wins. Although Peja muddies the wing situation a bit, I ahve a feeling he and the trade exception will be gone by the deadline.

[Zombywoof]

Hmmm.... GM botches off-season moves, then fires Spoelstra so he can take over and demonstrate more emphatically that he botched it?

Or should I say Boshed it?

[al]

Hey Doug
When you see Jarryd again let him know he can find a Canada Goose parka at LeBaron in Mississauga.