A typically mixed bag of mail

Well done, again, Irregulars.

Some serious stuff, some chances at snark and cynicism and enough non-basketball to keep me truly entertained.

Anyway, have at it and don’t forget to be back here at 8 p.m. for Game 1 of the Bulls-Heat.

See you then.

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Q: Not much do ask about Raps cause future is so wide open (BC? Jay? Trade a point guard or big? draft position? Oh yeah, is there going to be a season?)

So here is a question about you, since you have started the internet love-fest, and have admitted to being a grump at times, are there times in IGBT (or weekly questions or afternoon Q&A,) that you went "Oops, perhaps I am being a little hard on the buggers or have maybe I am reading it the wrong way"?

 

 

Bruce M, Winnipeg

A: Nah, no regrets.

Well, maybe a few when you consider you miss nuance in the written word and sometimes misconstrue things but, in some ways, I guess it’s part of my charm.

(I keed, I keed).

But yes, sometimes I have and have had a twinge or regret and then someone says something terribly nice or horribly bad that’s impossible to misunderstand and I shake my head and think, “yeah, it takes all kinds.’

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Q: Hey Doug, would you agree with me that the best series/the most exciting series to watch so far is the OKC and Memphis series?

Thanks

 

 

Ray F, Toronto

A: Sure, since it’s the only one to go seven games, has had some compelling individual performances, close games and that triple-OT gem.

For all the good games we’ve seen in the post-season, I think in a lot of ways the series have been a bit ho-hum.

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Q: Doug. Did you hear Lebron's apology to Cleveland... Your thoughts?

 

Jeff M, Saint John

A: How’s a day late and a dollar short sound?

I think we all know why he did what he did and in some ways it’s entirely understandable; the issue was always how he did it and he’ll never be able to apologize enough for the narcissist lunacy that was The Decision.

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Q: Hi Doug. I know about you and pucks, but I was wondering what your take was on the Twitter controversy with Sean Avery supporting gay marriage and a sportscaster seemingly getting fired for opposing it. I'm not asking your opinion on gay marriage (none of my business) but just what you thought of the whole situation.

On a side note, do you think situations like this will be addressed in the NBA's negotiations this summer? I know that most (if not all) NBA players have good behaviour type clauses in their contracts (even though it sure doesn't seem they are enforced). I was wondering if someone as image conscious as David Stern would want to strengthen these types of provisions in the new agreement.

 

 

Sohail G, Collingwood

A: I think the situation was, in many ways, sad. I may not agree with what you say but don’t I have to defend to my death your right to say it? (I can’t remember who I stole it from but it’s not a bad quote).

Anyway, I’ll tell you right off I support same-sex marriage, always have always will, but I will also respect those whose opinions differ. I think Irregulars will know that I’m quite capable of agreeing to disagree.

But, I also think that every athlete, coach, writer, broadcaster, whatever, should probably read my man Cathal’s piece here because I can’t say it any better. And it’s funny, like his stuff generally is.

Oh, the NBA already organizes media training sessions for its players that deal with social media and its dangers and there are rules in place about when players can’t “tweet” during games. I think that’s doing enough, now it’s up to players, coaches and executives to use their brains.

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Q: Hello Doug! So, while you're still riding that musical wave begun by Super Son and his schoolmates' performances, here's a question that's rooted in the inspiration music can provide - like the one before the Memphis game. Now, the performance of national anthems can become almost embarrassing if not devoid of meaning when they're performed to an almost empty arena; perfunctory and routine. Like the trip to the washroom after a long drive before the game begins. But sometimes, we get what happened Friday night where, what Al Green started with his stirring performance, the Grizz and their fans seemed able to grab hold of and use some of that energy or emotion or both to get an unexpected win. So, finally the question: for the teams remaining in the playoffs, (Miami, Chicago, Dallas and do Oklahoma, too, please since Memphis has 'been done'!) imagine a deciding game situation and choose a performer with a connection to that city whose stirring performance of the national anthem would elevate team and fans to victory! (And if you would be so kind, for an absolute fantasy for Raptors' fans, in a Game 7 NBA Finals at ACC (say, in 2014) who would you have sing the Canadian national anthem? Yeah, somehow they got homecourt advantage, too!!!)

Thank you.

 

 

Lorie P, London

A: Wow, this one sent me into a tizzy. I’m not all that knowledgeable on hometowns so it required some searching.

But, search I did and I’d be fine with:

Dallas

Well, I know people who are going to be entirely miffed if I don’t say the Dixie Chicks so …

Actually, I’m having a hard time coming up with someone else and given their war thing, why not tweak ‘em just a bit. Maybe Dubya will be at the game? Of course, Stevie Ray Vaughan would have been No. 1.

Chicago

We’re not getting Muddy Waters or Mahalia Jackson, are we? Or the Blues Brothers? I’ve got nothing else, I’m afraid. I’m also sure an Irregular or two can help out?

Miami?

Hmm. Has to be Gloria Estafan, no?

Oklahoma City?

Someone told me I had to go with The Flaming Lips. I wouldn’t know them if they were playing on the front porch but what the heck.

Toronto?

If they didn’t put Neil Young at centre court on a stool in a spotlight, I’d be ticked.

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Q: Doug, issues of effort aside, do you think the physical abilities that make a great offensive player necessarily translate to making that person a great defensive player, or are there some abilities that are unique to one end of the court? For example, if Charles Barkley or Adrian Dantley (to choose two all-time great scorers with "non-standard" physical characteristics) had decided to basically ignore offense and dedicate 100% of their effort to D, I'm sure they would have been better defenders than their peers but could they have been all-time great defenders?

 

Mike D, Parts Unknown

A: I knew a wrestler from your town once. Evil guy.

I think talent transfers and if players like the ones you mentioned focused as much attention on the other end of the court as they did on offence, they would have been just as dominant that way.

And it is only the true greats who are able to do it at both ends because the effort, intensity and attention to detail necessary to be a great offensive and defensive player at the same time is tough to muster.

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Q: Hey Rockie. Watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat. Oops wrong hat. Wrong Rockie, I know.

If you could pull any rabbits out of your hat, what might they be? Besides something lightly charred, what would it be?

A point guard who passes?

A forward who rebounds?

A GM with more that 4 weeks left on his contract?

A teachers pension fund manager who knew basketball?

 

 

Bob E, Kanata

A: I’ve checked with the neighbours Boris and Natasha and we’ve come up with this, in order of least important to most:

Someone other than a dude with a singular fiduciary interest in a sports conglomerate.

A new point guard.

A 3 with myriad skils.

An undistracted general manager.

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Q: Hi Doug, a draft question. Both Canadian kids Thompson & Joseph are in the draft - there's a June 5th deadline- can they still pull out and go back to Texas or are they not NCAA eligible?

Thanks

 

 

Enio P, Vaughan

A: Nope, they’re in and there’s no turning back. It’s an NCAA deadline that they had to deal with and when it passed, there was no going back to school.

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Q: Dougie. From the pristine shores of Lake Simcoe, and the fresh, clear air view from Orillia, it appears that, barring Rose tinted glasses influence, we are headed for a Heat vs. Mavericks final. Do you think that it will be the first time in history, Doug, that support will be so overwhelming for one team with Cuban ownership?

 

Frank K, Orillia

A: He is a polarizing sort, isn’t he?

But yes, I can imagine the casual fan, and even those diehards who have allegiances to other teams, will be able to look past his excitable nature and the fact he’s got a team with a payroll that actually dwarfs Miami’s and cheer for the Mavs.

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Q: Hi Doug, congrats on the BBQ. I own a Webber and love it however Napolean is amazing. I was watching OKC-Memphis game on the dish in the hotel. If you could pick one player off of both rosters for the HOTHC who would it be?

I am going to pick James harden. I love the beard. Have fun grilling! (Imagine that with a thick Jamaican accident.)

Take care

 

 

Simon A, Jamaica

A: Can you grill jerk chicken?

Yeah, I’d be okay with Harden, that’s for sure. Know who else I like – besides the Durant-Westbrook-Conley-Gasol quartet? I like Sefolosha because he can defend a whole lot of spots. And Battier, too.

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Q: Hey Doug. Danny Ainge announced just days after the Celtics were beaten by the Heat that next year they may bring Paul Pierce off the bench to limit his minutes and have him as their 6th man. And said the move will provide more opportunities for Jeff Green. Many great Celtics players have come off the bench at one time during their time with Boston, (McHale comes to mind).

In your opinion is Ainge still trying to sell the Green for Perkins trade as the right move for Boston?

Thanks!

 

 

Martin H, Kingston

A: He might be but I also tend to think it was the right move. Green’s younger, more versatile and, likely, will be more affordable. The Celtics didn’t lose to the Heat because they didn’t have Kendrick Perkins, they lost mainly because they simply did not execute well enough in the dying minutes of Games 4 and 5.

Now, a move to bring Pierce off the bench is a bold one and I’m not sure it’s the right one yet so we’ll see how that develops and what Doc Rivers has to say about it.

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Q: Hi Doug. Thanks for the excellent coverage and thoughts on the post-season -- loved it so far.

Going through your list of all time big men, I noticed both Kareem and Hakeem had moves that were considered "theirs" (the Sky Hook and the Dream Shake).

Do you see anything similar in today's players? Anyone have a signature move that is uniquely "them"?

 

 

Kerry O, Waterloo

A: Since I saw this question, it’s been in the back of my mind and, frankly, the answer is no. Players do amazing things with their speed, agility and athleticism but I cannot think of a guy in the league today with a signature move that no one else uses.

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Q: Hi Doug! Besides the many talents you demonstrate to the Irregulars on an irregular basis - star Star sports reporter, entertaining blogger, informative Q & A man - what other 'strengths' do you have (other than being a fine crooner on a stool at the end of a long evening)? Are you an awesome cook?

Musical? Fashionista (I keed!) It doesn't have to be a top five list, either!

 

 

Tim H, Windsor

A: I’m telling you, if they had a Hall of Fame for lying on the couch clicking through channels, I’d be a first ballot Hall of Famer, my man. First ballot!

Oh, and if shirking yard work were an Olympic sport, they’d have to add a wing to Casa Doug for all the gold medals.

I have all kinds of hidden skills.

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Q: During the lead up to last years draft, the Raptors seem to have a lot of interest in Cole Aldrich. Not only can he not get in a game for the Thunder, he cannot even get in uniform. From the people you talk to, What is the general option about him at this point. A bust? A slow developing 5 that is not earning his rookie his rookie scale? Could the raptors pick him up during the off season and add him to the group other team high draft picks that were stuck low in the depth chart?

 

Kevin F, Toronto

A: I think you might be over-remembering Toronto’s interest in Aldrich, but that’s neither here nor there.

Right now, he is what he is: A kid very much learning the game and it’s impossible to say after one season whether he’s going to be a bust, a journeyman or a rotation player.

And given that Toronto’s going to get another young player with whatever draft pick comes to town, the last thing I think they need is another kid. So I’m taking a pass.

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Q: Doug. With the myriad contests run out of your Blog this year, have you ever given a thought to having a contest for the 2012-2013 season (after the lockout) with the winner being guest commentator/scribe for the IGBT? I think it would be a huge hit for the fan base, you'd just have to weed out the crazies with an essay contest or something like that.

Thank you

 

 

Sam R, Mississauga

A: No, I’ve never thought of that, actually. And I know my bosses haven’t either and turning over this space – or that space – is not something I think we’d consider.

No disrespect intended but we do a pretty good job at being interactive as it is and I kind of like to have my hand on the tiller.

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Q: I know you don't like these sorts of questions based on extremely hypothetical scenarios...but whatever.

Given how well Marc Gasol has played for the Grizz you have to imagine that the team would be willing to pony up the cash to keep him around. They must be willing to keep that core together at all costs, no?

Do you see the Raps being able to offer Memphis anything to take him off their hands?

Just humour me.

 

 

Colin K, Ann Arbor

A: I think you’ve answered your own question and, since I seem to do this every week (and I don’t mean that to be critical, it’s one of those things that bears repeating, there is no way to even think about wasting time guessing until we see the specifics of whatever new collective bargaining agreement emerges.

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Comments

[JHP]

Good Morning

I believe over the past few weeks you have revealed one of your many talents. Delaying any form of response to the draft or upcoming trades. Let's see..

- wait to after May 8th
- wait to after May 17th
- wait till they (re)sign coach
- wait till they (re)sign GM
- wait till they sell/or not MLSE
- wait for a new CBA

Well played and the list as stated should take us well past BQ season :-)

Blogger's note: Actually, I've been rather steadfast in my belief that it's ridiculous to speculate until we know who is in the draft and who's picking where. The answer to the latter comes Tuesday night.

[Matthieu]

Hi Doug,

Re the quote on liberty of expression, I had thought it came from the French philosopher Voltaire, until I read this interesting bit in wikipedia:

The most oft-cited Voltaire quotation is apocryphal. He is incorrectly credited with writing, “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” These were not his words, but rather those of Evelyn Beatrice Hall, written under the pseudonym S. G. Tallentyre in her 1906 biographical book The Friends of Voltaire. Hall intended to summarize in her own words Voltaire's attitude towards Claude Adrien Helvétius and his controversial book De l'esprit, but her first-person expression was mistaken for an actual quotation from Voltaire. Her interpretation does capture the spirit of Voltaire’s attitude towards Helvetius; it had been said Hall's summary was inspired by a quotation found in a 1770 Voltaire letter to an Abbot le Roche, in which he was reported to have said, “I detest what you write, but I would give my life to make it possible for you to continue to write.”Nevertheless, scholars believe there must have again been misinterpretation, as the letter does not seem to contain any such quote.

Interesting stuff, kind of.

[coachd]

Hi Doug,

"A: I think the situation was, in many ways, sad. I may not agree with what you say but don’t I have to defend to my death your right to say it? (I can’t remember who I stole it from but it’s not a bad quote)."

You "stole" it from the French writer and philospher Voltaire. In fact, it's an idea that is too often forgotten in this day and age.

[ditch]

Definitive American national anthem performance: Bleeding Gums Murphy. People, it's an anthem not a dirge.

[Boko]

Voltaire wrote "Think for yourselves and let others enjoy the privilege to do so, too". Then later, Evelyn Beatrice Hall wrote, "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it" in describing Voltaire's attitude.

[Boko]

I should've read to the end of my research before posting ... "the probable source for the quotation was a line in a 6 February 1770 letter to M. le Riche: ``Monsieur l'abbé, I detest what you write, but I would give my life to make it possible for you to continue to write.'' is by Voltaire himself.

[Richard Y]

Good morning Doug,

The rain unfortunately is keeping me inside and not doing yard work :o).

I think Sam R and others have highlighted a need for someplace or way for irregulars to connect directly. Through your blog, many of us have enjoyed the quick wit and reparte, the sense of community and opportunity to meet others of similar or at least compatible interests. While we will always come here, there is also interest for people to say hi to each other without going through a moderator no matter how great he may be.

At one time there was a facebook group for your fans, does that still exist? Or is there some other way for people to connect, other than posting a message like: "Lorie, send me an email at richardyun@hotmail.com" ?

[Art H]

Hi Doug.... Regarding Lori's comment on inspirational anthem singers: those of us of a certain age, and I include you in this group I am afraid, will remember the insanity of the Broad Street Bullies and was it Bessie Smith singing the anthem in Philly before their games. Can you add another list of the most over the top anywhere anthem singers?

[Lorie]

Hello Doug!
And in the words of emperor who inspired your barbeque: "A people which is able to say everything becomes able to do everything." Then again, there's Mae West's take on it "I believe in censorship. I made a fortune out of it." The Flaming Lips are amazing! You apparently got some decent advice as this was named their tune "Do You Realize" the Official Rock Song of Oklahoma recently! Check this out: http://youtu.be/fk76rsV71S0 Think they could nail the anthem quite adequately, too. Chicago? How about two native sons: Eddie Vedder and Tom Morello. Together.That might be a wee bit unforgettable, if not a downright legendary performance. And perhaps even inspire someone other than Rose to score. And just a random thought: Can we proclaim The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show the Official Cartoon around here? Just seems a natural fit. Cheers!

[doug]

Chicago performer doing the national anthem...Jimi Hendrix's inspiration and all other guitarists worth their salt...Buddy Guy....

[doug]

oh and another thing I forgot to mention...Toronto sports fans amaze me at times...they whine and complain over Bosh leaving, or how this city can't attract elite athletes in any sport...I don't know if anyone is noticing, and shame on sports fans for not doing so...but we have right now here in Toronto the best everyday player in the game of baseball today...he can play defense, has a rifle of a arm, is a leader and can hit, and hit with power, he's a hitting machine....Jose Bautista, so quit whining and go watch this guy play, when other players and managers marvel at a peer then you know that player is something special....and Jose is...

[Jay]

Yes... you can most definitely grill jerk chicken. I recommend Grace jerk paste (not sauce) if you like the spicey; the PC brand has some taste but remains largely tame. I just did jerk shrimp skewers with pineapples and red peppers. Yummm!

[Lee]

"I disagree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it"?

François-Marie Arouet (21 November 1694 – 30 May 1778), better known by the pen name Voltaire, was a French Enlightenment writer, essayist and philosopher known for his defence of civil liberties, including freedom of religion and the right to a fair trial. He was an outspoken supporter of social reform.

[p c]

hey doug, your blog has been excellent lately. your missives about the spurs/lakers/and celtics were top shelf.

jj cale singing the national anthem in oklahoma city would be something else.

i know this year's draft seems to lack the superstars but there does seem to be a healthy amount of role players and glue guys. great defenders/rebounders/shooters etc. i've been thinking that it would be great for the raptors to grab another mid to late first round pick.

@richard was hammering a trade-the-pick-philosophy if something creative and smart appears on the trade front and i think i would also be okay with this if we were to get another first rounder back in the trade. obviously depending on where we land in the lottery. to have a three or four or five pick to me seems no different than having a ten or eleven or twelve pick. i wonder what that difference is worth(?).

[Shawn L]

Dirk's fall away jumper that is unguardable should be considered a signature move...

[Steph]

@ Doug, the poster, great point. Jose Batista is worth recognizing and celebrating.
..
As a regular reader and poster I have to say that the blog is better during the Raptors off season. The topics are more varied, the irregular posters are discovered and the depth of knowledge one can find is amazing.
..
Thank you Doug Smith for making this possible.
..
It sure would be nice to meet the irregulars. I see where Richard has reached out to Lorie, as I'm sure most irregulars would. I'm in the London Ontario area and would love to meet irregulars. Like Doug, a pub, a shared interest and a few friends makes the world a better place.

[ditch]

Kate "When the Moon Shines Over the Mountain" Smith sang for the Broad Street boys. Any relation, Doug?

Blogger's note: I wish

[Dave in BG]

Boris and Natasha. Nicely done.
I understand that Sherman and Mr. Peabody have a view on this topic also :)

[Lee Z]

When it comes to music stuff, I trust my buddy Mike to come up with the goods. Here are his picks: Miami: Paula Abdul is the default choice as she is a part owner of the team, but I'd say Jimmy Buffet. Florida Keys is close enough, isn't it?

Chicago: Take your pick of blues artists, but I'd want Buddy Guy.

Dallas: There is probably a "New Country" artist from Dallas, but Charley Pride is my choice.

Oklahoma City: Garth Brooks is probably the best known, but I'd love to hear Wanda Jackson belt it out. She has a new CD, where Dylan contributed some liner notes.

Toronto: No doubt they'd ask Diana Krall, but I think David Clayton Thomas would do a great job.

[Matthieu]

Still talking about music, I remember this discussion a couple of weeks ago on great b-ball songs and I've just bumped into this one (yeah, I'm in a copy and paste mood today):

Playing to survive
Aiming to win anyway they can

Yo, yo Pass the ball, final casting call
First of all, verbal basketball off the glass, smash your jaw
Too fast for y'all you might take a nasty fall
Trying to stick with the prehistoric passenger (Foul Ball)
All breath, no physical contact
Bounce back, demonstrate invincible bomb raps
Not no hustler no player or speakin no crime crap
I'm vocally trying to score before my time lapse

Uh! Full court press, hands in your chest
Runnin' cause I'm a rebel with the ghetto conects
No fouls just checks, make a brother sweat
Word for y'all to earn my reject
Get it out of here, attack from the rear
Ya'll niggas aint nothin but some bitch ass queers
I'll be in your ear, increase the fear
Rippin with the shears as the crowd just cheers

Bring on the opposition cause my position is to shut you down
As the basketball pounds on the concrete floor
Envisioning moves to freak brothers
Every which way Dominating like Doc J.
Pass me the rock, I know just what to do with it
It's real vivid, I pivot, through the lane
Three hundred and sixty behind my back
I take your monkey ass to the rack like Jerry Stack

I'm saw by most recruiters and heavily recommended
Stickin your best shooters they lower verbal percentage
It's takin its toll, 24-second clock control
Stoppin this obstacle, impossible
I was the number one ?? project in the city
Prospect, now thats something that you can believe
So be it, whether pro or collegiate
The hit but don't miss Prime time the offense, switch

Y'all can't ball, Y'all can't ball
Yo ref, where's the tech? Man, make the call
The game is gettin tight verbal victories in sight
What counts is what you write not concerned about the hype
My rhymes go baseline so why you tryin to take mine?
Last man tried just died inside the paint line
I bank rhymes, got a call so I flex
I'm on the foul line with a few verses left
When my flow hits the net, the next brother flex

I put my foot in the pavement with the brothers I'm raised with
Play with and break dance back in the days with
And still in the game with 12 points, 4 assists
Get up in the game, in your face like swish
Crash the boards with metaphors in the air like a concord
Aiyyo what you out for? Yo I'm out for the whole score
22 flat seconds for me to win
I can't win for losin with this cheatin ass ref

[Clip from Laker game]

My squad's supreme so I don't need Clyde or the dream
Next time you play the game boy pick a better team
Your choice is short when you on a concrete court
But my mental cohorts is bout to change the whole sport
Give me the pill boy, crossover with the skills
Wrap around pass, fly right past your grill
Take off from half court, in some J5 shorts
The rap band with the man when my words play sports

Comin' through your lane, with pure skills so stand clear
Vocal charge is a mirage, I still stand here
Damn near, make your shit look soft like Pam Grier
Fans cheer for the paragraph Bill Lambier

Show me the rock, so I can show these fool what I got
(He's heating up) Fuck that, I'm flaming hot
Verbally take you to the blacktop, and wreck shop
Turn my game up a notch, pass me the rock
1 on 1, 3 on 3, 5 on 5, horse, 21
It really don't matter cause son you'll still get done
Yo you should know better than try to barter with this globetrotter
Militious, vicious dunks, I'm Vince Carter

And it's the high draft pick, flashin it
Still can penetrate and slightly overweight
But whatever it takes my shot can elevate
No pain, no gain for the brothers with no game

Sorry Doug, that's hip hop but good one (Jurassic 5, The Game)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TIsU9v1ND4

[sam]

@Leez....Diana Krall is a left coaster I believe. Toronto Singers are many - Could do know worse than Jim Cuddy/Greg Keelor from Blue Rodeo.

Looking forward to the Bulls - Heat.

[max]

No matter how rational and well-articulated the argument presented would be, I'm of the feeling that continued employment at the star would be unlikely if you fell in with the opposing gay marriage camp.
When simple words presented without malice are firing offense...
That's just sad.

[jimmy]

G'aft Doug,

You will want to check this article out:
http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/43035414/ns/sports-nba/

[J]

"obviously depending on where we land in the lottery. to have a three or four or five pick to me seems no different than having a ten or eleven or twelve pick. i wonder what that difference is worth(?)."

People would do well to remember that if there really is no difference, then why would another team give up anything valuable to move up. This logic only works if another team deems there to be a significant difference, and then I would want to know why they think so and we do not.

[J]

@Max:

"When simple words presented without malice are firing offense...
That's just sad."

But it wasn't simple words. Goddard kept pushing the issue, pretty much daring his employers to fire him. I agree that intolerance of differing opinion is just as bad as some offensive speech, but his employer wasn't obligated to tolerate his continued behavior. As a semi-related topic, I don't know how the Canadian version differs, but many people misconstrue the U.S. constitutional right of freedom of speech as covering all speech, when it's only meant to protect against state censorship, and not censorship by private entities.