Of blame and success and, of course, a rant

On the good side for them, think of all the money they’re saving in confetti costs.

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THREE POINTERS

It’s too easy, and wrong

Yes, the two inbounds plays were botched, the pass that Tony Parker intercepted and the five-second call.

But if you want to ascribe blame to one person, it would be a grave mistake. As we’ve said too many times to remember, it’s never one guy; there’s always something else going on that people tend to forget.

Except the people who count, like the coach.

“At that time that’s when you have to have that razor-like focus and get open, set solid screens and come aggressively to the ball. You can’t tiptoe and do that, those are things that are the mark of a young team, a team trying to find itself and that’s who were are.”

So, yes, the Calderon pass that Parker picked off was a bit soft but Lowry kind of nonchalant going to the ball, the screens in both situations were soft and there’s more than enough responsibility shirked to have a discussion.

As there always is.

But that’s not how the world works, I’m afraid; too many people are into much of a rush to find one thing they lose track of the bigger picture.

It is forever thus.

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Historical night

According to the great people at the Elias Sports Bureau and passed on to all by the inimitable Marc Stein, that game Sunday was the first since the advent of the shotclock in 1954 that the first five quarters of a game were either tied or with a margin of one point.

Does that make it the closest game in NBA history?

You could make that point and that’d be pretty cool to have seen it, no?

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Another admission coming?

Yes, that was Gregg Popovich out at mid-court – and I’m taiking right out at the circle – ranting the face of an official during a timeout late in the fourth quarter and, yes, that was an official shying away and swallowing his guts and his whistle and taking it like a chastised child.

Shameful.

And, shockingly, seconds later there was a cheap illegal screen call on Valanciunas.

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Oh yeah, here's the game story that should answer one of your burning questions if you haven't read it yet.

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More?

Heck yeah.

How about some Grey Cup stuff?

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Right after this.

Dean Martin singing about Houston? How good is that?

It’s certainly not my favourite city – it’s far too spread out (there are about four “downtown” areans) – and there doesn’t seem to be a lot to do in the neighbourhood where I stay for games (down by the arena for ease of game-day access) and I’d definitely have in the bottom third of league cities.

That said, it’s Dean Martin!

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Okay, so 34-22 isn’t 29-25 but you get my point, right?

Congrats to the Argos on a rather dominant victory – at no point at any time after about the start of the second quarter did you really think they’d lose.

Now, people, tomorrow there will be what’s known as a “victory parade” in downtown Toronto. It is when a championship team is feted in the streets by adoring fans and always accompanies some significant sporting victories.

It is not to be confused with people honking horns driving the main drag after some first-round single-game playoff victory.

It is bigger than that. Not many have experienced it, just want to let you know.

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The dusting of snow on the ground during Super Dog’s early morning walk was a bit dismaying. Almost enough to make me put the flip-flops away.

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Rant time.

You know, it's all well and good and quite nice that a global icon like Beebs or whoever you spell it appreciates the opportunity to perform for free at the Grey Cup.

Now, if only he was more respectful of his county, I'd take him far more seriously.

I say this not as a writer but as a Canadian: you may not like the policies or politics of the Prime Minister but if he is honouring you in any way you need to respect the office and the nation and you do not ever show up looking like some hillbilly punk.

I cannot for the life of me think of a more disrespectful look and for that he should be ashamed and whatever handler or family member let him dress like that should be ashamed of themselves, too.

That doesn't make me an old grump, it makes me a grown up and a Canadian.

I’m not talking a black tie outfit but in the name of all that’s good in the world, the kid needed to look like a human.

There is no explanation, there are no mitigating factors, there is no way anyone can offer any logical reason for that affront.

The kid should be embarrassed and ashamed.

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That said, he was better at the Grey Cup than The Who was at the Super Bowl, no?

Well, except for the obvious lip-synching, that is.

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Please, someone tell me that I misheard and that Burton Cummings didn’t really blow the words to O Canada?

I know he screwed up the “all thy sons command” line and that’s despicable enough but didn’t it sound like he missed later in the song, too?

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So what do the Argos do now?

I know at least one guy – hello, coach Steve! – who vows to return as a season-ticket holder after a few year’s absence following the success of this season but the real trick will be if they can attract new fans.

And I wonder if they will.

I’d hope that they have their 2013 season ticket program ready to launch today because if they don’t, they will lose a huge opportunity to cash in on the goodwill of the week.

It seemed to be a wildly successful celebration and game and result, now is the time to somehow leverage it with tickets and videos and souvenirs and the like because sports fans tend to have short memories and if they wait until the spring, it will be a huge chance blown.

By the time they start up against next summer, the Blue Jays could very well be the talk of the town; right now, the Argos pretty much have the city to themselves and a championship to crow about.

I hope they do.

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Comments

[Chris]

It is every single game that there are debatable calls, not just this season but perhaps this year is the worst. Admitting the charlotte call is bogus. Are they going to admit the missed goaltending call in Detroit too? Or the calamity of BS yesterday. DD gets fouled more than any player in the league. You could send every game tape in for them to say there were missed calls against him. I think Casey is aging as fast as Obama. But its about time he throw class out the window for a night and blow up on the league because the double standard has reached an outrageous level. The lack ot a solid 3, a frachise player who looks like he's on a heavy dose of psych meds and actually missing Anderson who wouldnt ever dress on contenders makes this a non playoff team. The fact that they are competing in so many games is actually amazing.

[LeeZ]

It's never one guy? I beg to differ, Doug, and so too does the justice system in this country. The verdict is in: it's Fat Bastard's fault, and he has therefore been summarily turfed from office. Just you watch: the Raps will commence a huge winning streak now that the true culprit has been punished!

[Brad B]

Just a comment about Justin B:

There is no way that his handlers would have dressed him that way. JB is one of the most media savvy performers of his generation and I think he knew exactly what type of response his clothing would evoke. That must have been his way of making a political statement by trying to show everyone how much he disrespects the PM without saying so outright (though it's difficult to embarass Stephen Harper, his stiff body language speaks volumes). I doubt he would have shown up dressed like that if it was any other politician.

The problem is that JB is not considering that he is also disrespecting the office which the person he detests represents. That may haunt him later, but anyone over the age of 25 is not his target demographic and they probably wouldn't care less about the photo-op faux pas.

[JPGR]

"Its never one person" which is fine, I agree...but one person can play below average, continuously not succeeding in a game (or group of games) largely being a noncontributing factor to a lose...which is more glaring (as an individual) when the lose is so close...like yesterday's game.
Doug, are you seriously saying, that Calderon's throw-in pick off (at one of the most crucial times of the game) is equal or comparable to being called for a "screen foul" ?. I don't think so! No excuses for 1 of those throw ins let alone two...no excuse,not at at that point in the game, not with a so called leader. For every good game Calderon has,he has a few bad ones. His play against Utah and Pacers was off the wall, he then has been absent since. Just doing a job any second tier PG could do, only we have to pay him 10 million dollars. Same with Bargs 10 million, I agree that the experiment is over. I liked both Calderon and Bargs for years, defended them crucially for years...but the time has come...time for a change. Including the bad throw-in's here are Calderon's numbers for yesterday: he shot 21% from the field hoisting up 14 shots to only hit three of them. He jacked up 5-3pt shots, hitting only 1. Zero t/o' but zero steals and only 2 rerbs. 9 assists are good (his average), but 9 pts and no steals and two measly rebounds and no defense won't cut it. I stopped counting how many times Parker blew by him or Ginobli hit a 3pter while he was scurrying out to a late defense at the 3 point line. Even coach Casey is keeping him on the bench now when it comes to defensive times. Bargs shot, 10.5%, zero% from the 3, he did have eight rebounds tho. Amir Johnson was absent again except for a few flashes, he too, shot 20%, 4 pts, 5 rebs but 2 blocked shots. Amir and Jose were both deep in the minus stat. Together all 3 shot 15.7%....can't happen. That is roughly 27+ million towards the cap dollars tied up in contracts for 3 players shooting a combined 15.7%....between that, and the two untimely throw-ins is why we lost. All three players are inconsistent, this is not just a one game example of poor "D" , poor shooting, disappearing in games and poor decision making. Neither Jose, Bargs or Amir are capable of hitting a last second clutch shot and actually hitting it. When well defensed, these players are lost for shots. Bargs hit 36 pts the other night and still just reached 40% shooting on the year. First time he hit 40% in over two years - not good enough for a "shooter" who doesn't rebound and plays defense occasionally at 10+ million dollars a year. After yesterday's game, I believe he is back down to 34% now. Time for a change...the core moving forward, DD, JV, ED, KL, and I am in to seeing what Ross can be...the others should be traded.

[Tom]

Me thinks the "Angst-O-Meter" is running at an all-time high!!! We're almost at Plaid.

Everyone take a deep breathe and remember, it's only a game.

LeeZ - That was funny!

[JPGR]

BIG ED DAVIS:
I have a been a huge supporter of Davis taking over at PF. He has proven he can play - time to give him a shot as a starter. Thats why they drafted him! I remember how excited Colengalo was that Davis dropped to 13th in that draft, now show that same confidence and start him. Go look at a young Antonio Davis, same build, same playing style at the same time in their respected years. AD never got playing time in his first few years with the Pacers and had to battle for playing time with the other Davis that was drafted the year before Tone was. Pacers moved the other Davis out to Portland in a trade (receiving a young Jermaine O'Neil) and Tone got the nod to start in Indiana and never looked back. In his first few years, AD was a high flying, rebounding defensive player that need to work on his shot - sound like anyone!??!....Give Big Ed a chance. What he does good: Active, strong on the boards, plays defense, 6'10- brings length for changing shots and blocks, most importantly doesn't foul a lot, never has. He lacks offensive punch, however he is not in there for that, he would be your 5th, 4th option at best. Lowry, DD and Val (untill they get a scoring SF) should be the offense 1-2-3 punch. But just like yesterday showed, Davis can get points off of put backs, short jumpers in the paint, being active on the glass and foul shots...Just like Antonio Davis did back in the day. Another guy he can model himself after is Amare Stoudimire...he his living off of garbage baskets and pick and rolls. This is what we drafted ED for, to takeover at the PF spot - so now is better time then any. His (ED's) knock, is that he doesn't bring it everyday. Ed doesn't have to play bad to not get consistent minutes as it stands now, if he doesn't score or rebound within in the first few minutes, he's hooked early. Amir and Bargs fall asleep for log periods of time and coach Casey rides them and leaves them out there. Give Davis more consistent minutes, and he'll preform well...I come from the school of thought that given more responsibility, one will stay focused. When shown confidence from his coaching staff, Davis knows he can make a mistake w/o having to sit immediately...he would prove his spot as a starter. Same things were said about Lowry when he was with the Grizzlies, where he was drafted and played few minutes - goes to Houston, gets a chance as a starters and proves he can play. Ed and Val moving forward gives you strength on defense, protection of the paint, and solid rebounding. Ed will average double digit rebounds easily, if he starts. AB off the bench is better suited for him and his play. Doesn't mean he only gets 20 mins a night, if he plays well he can still get 30+ and play in the stretch....he just plays more against 2nd tier guys for majority of the game.
All we are saying is give ED a chance!

[JHK]

No shot at Bargnani?
He should be embarrassed and ashamed.

[Heatham]

If it is never one person's fault, that must mean it is nobody's fault this team loses year after year. Great logic.

Blogger's note: Not even close, but good try

[Cluck Kent]

Beiber looks like a less intelligent version of Goober Pyle. Confirms everything I don't like about him.

I'm beginning to think that the NBA is using the Raptors as part of their developmental league - better than the D league but not NBA worthy. As one poster pointed out, it's like we're the Washington Generals.

I think Pops said, 'Hey get it together ref and give us a few calls or we're going to lose this game - to the Raptors!

[Moshigh]

Its not just one persons fault. This team is a killer, when your wife makes up Raptor loosing songs in fun its not good. When your wife can say dont waste time on the couch, I will tell you outcome, Raptors loose. Its not good.

Im starting not to like Casey sub patterns, no excuse Ed Davis didnt play at all down the stretch. I dont want to hear " Oh they nearly won " Raptors lost!!!.. Casey has done this before with JV hot as well. BARGNANI IS THE END ALL OF THIS TEAM!!! Sorry he is a good player but not for this team.

Pau I wish---If Bargnani goes to Lakers Kobe chews him up.

Paul Milsap I wish....If any of these other GM's would trade for Bargnani it would be a start for Raptors.

All there is damn excuses...Every game, I hate being the faithful fan of whats looking to be a sad sack team.

I got news for you positive people, its not getting better there is nothing to suggest so, nothing!!!

Blogger's note: So, we can take it that you've made your point, so there's no reason for you to belabour it, right?

[JGun]

In all fairness to the Beebs (although nobody should be wearing overalls like that in public), the meeting with the PM happened in a room at Scotiabank Place in Ottawa where he was rehearsing/doing some event with fans, and not at the PM's office. Logically, someone on his team should probably have given him 10 mins or so to change into something respectable before meeting the PM...or atleast get him to remove his hat.

[doug]

I missed the game yesterday just saw the score later "Raps lose in 2OT" I just shook my head and thought thank good I missed as its better for my health......its just the same old same old with this go back and read this blog from 3 years ago, its the same discussion..it's tiring and quite frankly there is no excuse for it, none,nada,zilch....same goes for Biebers "look" what a complete and utter embarrassment forget his handlers where is his mother , oh wait out writing books...so Rob Ford got what he deserved and him and his brother are still whining and blaming "lefties" for all this....time for both of them too l,look in the mirror....ok cheers...

[Penguin]

I have been an NBA fan since growing up in NYC and seeing Knicks' games in the early 60s at MSG. I have never gotten into the criticism of the refs. That being said, after more than 50 years as an NBA fan I have never seeing the officiating this bad. For me, it is destroying the credibility of the game. Calling or not calling mugging calls, such as this missed one on DD is one thing, but how the ref did not T up Pop for that mid-court rant is way beyond my understanding. The leauge REALLY needs to address this. As for the team, I loved Lowry, but not what I'm seeing is a guy who dribbles too much, holds the ball too long, and doesn't look to make a pass often enough. Bargs is driving me crazy and I can no longer support the view that he will eventually figure it out (as a seven-year pro). Yes, we need him, when he shoots well, and last year proved it, but I wouldn't be sorry to see him go if the right trade can be made. I am joining the many who wonder if this team can ever consistently win with him. Love the way JV is developing and his potential is exciting, as is DD. Hoping Davis can keep bringing it as he did Sunday. The rest are pretty much who they are, which is adequate bench players on a mediocre, at best, team. That includes Jose, who I agree (with a comment above) is becoming too timid late in games and seems unable to go to the basket.

[Nihir Morzaria]

I think perhaps before ranting so strongly, you should look into the circumstances of Justin Bieber's encounter with the PM.

He was at his own concert meet & greet to a room in the arena where they set this up. He didn't go to the PMO, the PM went to his show. He had on his show "costume."

It's quick to jump to conclusions, but perhaps before ranting, it'd be better to know the whole story.

Everything I've read and seen about this kid, shows that he's one of the more respectful stars in the music business. It's easy to get on his case because he's young and sings pop music, but I don't see what the issue was here. Is he supposed to have a suit waiting for him at his concert venue?

--

I hate how everyone just glosses over the fact that some players just don't get calls in the league. That's not how it should work. The refs should be independent from the league and call every foul evenly. Call the foul, not the player.

The Raptors were hosed by the refs on Sunday. Pure and simple. Lowry was called for really horrible fouls, and that 5-second call was BS.

Blogger's note: Don't care what the circumstances are, take the freaking hat off; do the stupid overalls up; get one of your flunkies to run to a mall and buy some real clothes. Inexcusable disrespect anyway you slice it

[deaner]

They should change the name of the Toronto Raptors to the Toronto 649's.........cuz they are going to be a lottery team for the next ten years, oh, and the previous 4 or five already, oh and like 15 of 18 so far in the history of the Raps.

To everyone who thought Lowry was the answer, think again. That lazy ass play last night is exactly the person you get with Lowry, a guy who hustles hard when his stat sheet can be filled, but not on the basic basketball plays. Wonder why Houston was so willing to give him up? There ya go...........

The Toronto 649's..........yes sir, I am brilliant. Also, Beiber should be ashamed, I agree, even though he is worth 500 times what Harper has in his bank account, still, a button up shirt would not have killed him. His handlers are idiots.

Cheers

Deaner

[Yama F - Rant please read.]

Hi Doug,

Going back the 6 or 7 years that I have been reading you, I do not remember one single occasion where you were critical "current" front office people at whatever time. Saying 'the green jersey sucks' or 'the raps should give free tickets for a pre-season game' does not count. I understand you don't want to burn any bridges because you have to feed your family. Keep the "columnist of the town" position going and all. But come freaking on! Vince carter's trade was at the time a great trade for you until Babcock left. Seems like you keep making excuses for the guy until he gets fired and then he's the worst person that ever was in Toronto.

Look, BC's problem in Toronto is that he does not have a 27 year old Steve Nash. You could have thrown anyone with Steve Nash in Pheonix at the time and their record wouldn't have changed. Look at what happened to all the people that left Phoenix; their careers plummeted and vice versa. Of course that makes BC look like a genius when after every trade, the guy going out sucks and the guy coming in does great when he plays with SN.

Sports or not, you gotta keep your journalistic integrity because it is coming through clearly for some who are older than 16 years old.

Best regards,
Yama