Mail to get you through the morning

Blow leaves into ginormous pile in back yard; drag big-arse tarp out of garage, lay on ground next to pile. Rake leaves onto tarp, haul to curb. Repeat, ad nauseum, for hours. Curse Mother Nature, loudly. Eventually retire to comfort of couch, arise from slumber to finish mail.

And how was your Saturday?

-

Q: Hey Doug. It seems like your reactions to everything are always very toned down compared to us fans. Is that on purpose to keep things in perspective? Or are these your true reactions?

David S, Toronto

A: I’m far more dispassionate than a fan, that’s the primary reason. And if I’ve learned anything in the 15 years I’ve been doing this and the years I covered baseball and football it’s that the one adage that’s more true than almost any other is: Don’t get too high after you win, don’t get too low after you lose.

But, really, my reaction is always going to be muted compared to those of fans. And I think the world – and my in-box – would be a better place if more people lived by that credo.

-

Q: Hi Doug,_I can totally appreciate how a game night story at deadline might get expanded, with some more meat on the bones, for the morning edition. But then shouldn't the expanded version be posted in place of the original, rather than alongside it, to help readers out a bit with their navigation selections?

I also wonder how (or if) your duties/approach as a blogger differ from or influence your duties/approach as a journalist. For example, do you try to more directly "engage" your readers than in the past, even with a game story? Are you also more inclined to get into the "predicting" business with your blog followers than you might have otherwise as a beat grunt?

Keep up the terrific work, as always. And thanks!

P.S. Doug, did you know that the web format The Star has been "BETA" testing for weeks on end is, for all practical intents, purposes and functionalities, identical to the web format long used by dozens of small-town Midwestern newspapers? The larly.difference is, the small-town websites are dead simple to navigate, their content options are crisp and clear, and they're flawless in operation. (Check out www.wcfcourier.com, www.trib.com or www.qctimes.com as examples.) Not sure what your web people are trying to accomplish, but they're sure not re-inventing any wheels here and they're also coming off as fumbling amateurs while they continue to test the patience of your reading public. Meanwhile, here's to 10 million more for you, sir!

David M, Ottawa

A: Sorry, I can’t speak to how or what gets posted through the night but I know someone will see this.

The approach is a balancing act, a difficult one at times, to tell you the truth.

I aim for strictly reporting in game stories that appear on the paper while also providing some kind of context while being more “conversational” in blogs. The “engaging” part comes here, and in the comments. It has dramatically changed the way I do my job and, sometimes frankly, it’s difficult trying to find the right tone in each aspect.

And I try my hardest to avoid making predictions.

-

Q: Doug, with the replay having been expanded this year can you see it in the future being extended to include the dreaded charge/block call? That call can change the momentum of a game especially in the last 2 minutes when replay can be used and its always a tough one to make.

Thanks

Reid B, Guelph

A: I cannot imagine any support for that suggestion, and that includes from me. While block-charge is without doubt the hardest call In the game, I don’t think even video replay would get it right 100 per cent of the time. And three’s almost too much replay in the game now.

-

Q: Which Raptor is the most likely to be reading this right now?

P H, Toronto

A: None, I don’t think. But I do know that “people” associated with some players, coaches and management read the blog regularly and report what’s being written.

The mail bag? Not so much.

-

Q: Doug, Great job at providing fair balanced reporting on the team. Do you think the increased media spotlight on the team over the years (blogs, twitter, game day chats, 4 "national" TV networks, even some clown doing "Grunt TV") has created a hyper-critical fan base? I am amazed at how every game seems to be life or death of the franchise, trade this player or that. It seems the "educated" fan (I use the term loosely) is more invested because of the wealth of knowledge but also more critical. Thoughts?

Steven C, Fredericton

A: The demands for absolute and immediate gratification are so great in every aspect of life today, it’s only logical that it would invade sports. I’m not sure hyper-critical is an apt description, I think hyper-impatient may be.

-

Q: Hey Doug. Suppose there were robots that could be refs, and would be entirely impartial and were GUARANTEED to get every call right. Forget whether or not this would be possible.

Would you be in favour of this? Or do you think the subjectivity of the refs is an indispensable part of the game? For example, having more respect for some players than others.

David S, Toronto

A: No, I wouldn’t at all.

Human failings – of players, coaches, referees, management – are such an integral part of the essence sport that to take that away would, in some small way, diminish the overall experience.

-

Q: Hey Doug, love the blog. Was at Friday Nights game and besides the two HUGE threes JJ made down the stretch, the biggest impression made on me was from the Raptors "extra" coach, Reggie Evans. Boot and all, he was one of the biggest cheerleaders there. And a number of times I saw him go out and talk to guys as they were coming off, sharing his thoughts and observations. I'm sure you've seen much the same. Do you know what the particulars are of his contract?

Scott M, Ilderton

A: Reggie’s got this year and next left on his deal, about $4.9 million this year, a shade over $5 million in 2010-11.

-

Q: Bonjour Doug. If I remember correctly, you had written before the 4-game stretch on the West Coast that the trip would also be interesting in terms of team cohesion and chemistry. What's your assessment of the team in this regard after Friday's win? It was nice to see the whole team going crazy after Turk's three at the end of the first half, so I guess it's quite good.

Kinda similar question: it seems to me that the Raps have the potential to be an excellent team this year. If we take Friday's game, how much do you think they can still improve? The obvious thing to say is that they should be better on the defensive end, but I don't know if it's realistic to expect that from them.

Merci et good luck with your leafs (at least you can get rid of them),

Matthieu B, Biel-Bienne, Switzerland

A: I do sense a growing chemistry between the players, on the court that is, as they become more familiar with each other and, frankly, more trusting in each other. That trust extends to such instances as giving up the ball knowing you’ll get it back and perhaps gambling on defence knowing someone’s got your back.

And I don’t think this team has the skills to be among the top five or six defensive teams in the league but I do think they can improve and that improvement will come with more familiarity and more consistency of effort. How much? Impossible to tell but I do think some will come.

-

Q: Hi Doug!_A question about your "process". Fifteen hour travel days must tax the patience of even the most intrepid traveller. What tools or skills have you developed over lo' these many years to help you navigate so calmly and professionally through the unpredictable obstacles you have to deal with? Things such as flight delays and missed connections, wonky or even non-existent wireless, shortages of appropriately positioned wall sockets and other issues big and small, that threaten to interfere with the smooth running of your day?

Lorie P, London

A: I vent to friends and family. I get frustrated and angry but have found that, as the years unfold and the issues continue to arise, I’m much more able to let things go more quickly, deal with whatever crap has to be dealt with and move on to the things that have to be done.

I guess it’s just because I’m getting older and more used to the troubles that pop up year after year after year.

But, trust me, when things first go wrong, it’s like there’s a big Do Not Bother The Animals sign that comes over my face and people know to stay away.

The mail all the way from Arizona

Well, you folks have done it again.

Loads of questions and lots of good ones; have fun digesting it while you get ready for the big game.

Oh, and don't get used to this being up so early every week, I'm so messed up with four different time zones in the last five days I have no idea what time it is anywhere in North America.

-

Q: Hey Mr. Smith, I am a huge Raptors fan, and when the Raptors lose I am one of those fans that get really frustrated. Does your fan side ever come out and you get really frustrated, or does your impartial journalistic point of view always stay with you.

Andrew H, Sutton West

A: I don’t have a fan side. I may cheer for a story but, frankly, that’s it. I hope for quick games with obvious story angles and some excitement but no buzzer-beaters, especially on deadline.

-

Q: Can you talk a little about scheduling? It seems that the high echelon teams are always playing on Thursday nights. We never are. We always play on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Is that because we share our arena? Or is there some strategy the league employs in deciding who plays on which days?

David S, Toronto

A: They don’t play Thursdays because that’s a night reserved for national TV broadcasts the United States on TNT, which – rightfully so – declined the chance to schedule a team that won 33 games a year ago.

And Fridays and Wednesdays and Sunday afternoons are the best times for arena availability in Toronto.

-

Q: Hi Doug. On Wednesday night, the Suns blow out the Hornets. The Suns play the next night on the road against the Lakers and the Lakers blow out the Suns. The Lakers play the next night in Denver and get blown out by the Nuggets. Rather than the Suns/Lakers and Lakers/Nuggets being the marquee matchups as hyped, the games end up being duds, I think, because of the road team playing on the second night of a back-to-back. What can be done to eliminate or at least significantly reduce the number of back-to-back games to improve the quality of play for both the paying customers and the TV audience (not to mention the effect on players)? Casual fans will tune out of TV games early and an exciting close game is so much better to attend than a one-sided blowout. I know arena availability is an issue, but isn't it in the NBA's best interests to provide the most competitive, entertaining games as possible for everyone? What about extending the season by a couple weeks and keep the same number of games, etc?_

Diana T, Mississauga

A: You make all valid points that the league is aware of, I’m sure, but with the tug of TV and the availability of arenas, sometimes it’s unavoidable. A lot of it really has to do with the national broadcaster, they want the high profile teams and they have to fit other games around those demands.

But instead of extending the season, the answer to me is quite simple: Whack the pre-season by about two weeks, 10 days at the least and that gives you some more time.

-

Q: Doug. When you covered the Raptors during Vince Carter's rookie year, was there a moment when you realized this could be a really special talent at the Raptors hands? It seems like his rookie year was quite a phenomenon, and the buzz was incredible. Also, how were he and McGrady in dealing with you and the fellow grunts, and how are things today with those guys?

Steven R, Clarkston

A: It was early in Vince’s era, actually. There wasn’t a “wow” moment that I can think of – maybe a dunk on the baseline in Indy about 10 games in would come close – but you knew pretty quickly he was going to be good.

Tracy, when he was in Toronto, was so young he was a bit quiet with the media but he did have a great “the ship be sinking” like in a particularly troublesome time that made him stand out.

Vince? I will say this: There has not been a player of his stature in the league and in the public eye who was better with us. He stopped and talked at every practice, every shootaround and after every game. He may not have said much, but he never, ever blew us off.

Same goes for Bosh now, as a matter of fact, so we’ve been pretty lucky.

-

Q: Hey Doug, if you were to see just 5 NBA games live this year, which ones would you attend?

And as a related follow up, in your opinion, what are the top 5 arenas to watch a game for overall experience, based on say the last season and this one?

Josh P, Toronto

A: If I had to pick games, they wouldn’t be in November or December, that’s for sure. But I’d like to see Lakers-Spurs late in the season, Cleveland-0rlando, Denver-Dallas because I think there might be some bad blood there and a Boston-Cleveland game in the final month of the season would be a hoot. Or, and give me maybe Grizzlies-Kings so I can better appreciate good games.

In-arena stuff all seems to meld together, to tell you the truth. But I do like watching a game at Conseco Fieldhouse when it’s full; a game in Phoenix is pretty good and so are ones in Chicago and Houston. If I had to pick a fifth, let’s go with the Lakers ‘cause you’ll see some beautiful – sometimes fake beautiful – people.

An off-day Sunday means a Monday mailbag

Know what? This is a pretty good mailbag, if I do say so myself.

Variety of questions covering a variety of issues and not a single “why don’t they start Wright/Jack/Belinelli” query among them.

Well played.

Don’t forget, we’ll do a regular game-day chat if you like, this afternoon at 3 p.m. your time. You’re all invited.

-

Q: Mr. Perkins had a nice thing to say about you in his column on Friday. Do you think the older scribes envy or are happy that they didn't operate in an era of journalism that requires writers to embrace so many forms of communicating with their readership (not that anyone works at it as hard as you do)? I suppose it's entirely impossible to generalize but I was curious how the older grunts react to your work. There's a vibe and a level of detail that we get from you that enhances our followship (don't know if that's a word) tremendously and would have been stupendous if the same sort of dynamic existed surrounding the Jays in the early-90s and had been offered by a Mr. Perkins or a Mr. Elliott.

Matt G, Ottawa

A: I think there are some veterans – not necessarily in Toronto, mind you – who view this new-age system of “engaging” the readers as a curiosity and I’m sure there are those who are quite glad not be doing it.

That said, the good ones --- like my man Perk, and Griff – have come around to the era, they blog, they answer questions and they are able to get off-beat stories from the present and past in front of the readers where they wouldn’t be able to get them in papers simply because of space constraints.

It’s a great way to humanize a writer, I think. We get a louder “voice” that provides glimpses of our personality and in some ways it’s a shame it didn’t exist 25 years ago because the writers back there were characters and would have thrived letting readers get to know them better.

-

Q: Here is a non-game specific question for you. Considering the significance of the donation made in your name to charity by the Raptors GM, will that make it more difficult to remain impartial in the future? Especially that the $10,000 was donated by him personally, not some giant impersonal entity like MLSE? Don't get me wrong, I think it is absolutely wonderful gesture on his part, recognizing your huge achievement and part that you play in bringing us little urchins so much closer to the Raptors. Does it not make your job to stay impartial a little bit trickier though?

Kyle G, Akureyri

A: Not really. I like to think that I, and Bryan, are professional enough to understand there will be times when criticism is warranted, hard questions are asked and we respect each other enough to realize that’s just part of the job. On both sides.

And, I would also think the readers are smart enough to differentiate between the two. At least the ones I want to connect with would be.

-

Q: Hi Doug, this is a "story time" question. Can you recall an instance where you nearly missed a game, let's say due to transportation issues?

Natalie M, Mississauga

A: Knock on wood – and I’m tapping myself on the head as I type that – I’ve been pretty lucky. Most of my delays and travel snafus have happened on the day before I was supposed to be in a city and I’ve never been stressed too much about missing a game. There have been a couple of times where, making a connection somewhere, I’ve been late out of Toronto and missed it, forcing me to stay in one city unexpectedly and fly into the city of the game the next morning. I remember it happening in Denver on the way to Phoenix a couple of years ago and I can recall spending nights on two different occasions at O’Hare because things were messed up and connections missed.

A couple of buddies on the beat here, who’ve gambled and tried to fly in game-day, have had weather or mechanical difficulties that forced them to miss games and scramble to hire freelancers at the last minute.

But for me? So far, so good.

Of course, I’m pretty sure I’ve now jinxed myself and will miss a game for the first time in 15 seasons some time in the next three weeks. And for that, I thank you.

(I’m joking, of course).

-

Q: Hey Doug. I have a question about 'tempo'. You always hear the word 'tempo' used to describe the flow of a game and how it benefits one team but not the other. Honestly, unless you're watching Phoenix vs. Detroit, is there really a pace of play that benefits one team and not the other?

Aaron J, Markham

A: There is, actually. It’s just more subtle than you’d see comparing the Suns and old Pistons, for instance.

Take the other night in Dallas as a case in point. The Mavs are far better when they’re getting out and running, not necessarily for fast-break layups but so they can find the likes of Nowitzki and Terry before defences can lock in on them.

A team like Boston, on the other hand, likes to work more in a walk-it-up kind of system where they can isolate Pierce or run Allen off a handful of screens, neither of which happens a lot in transition.

Now, “tempo” is not the determining factor in every game, that’s for sure, but teams have certain speeds they play best at and try to get games to that tempo.

-

Q: Hi Doug, kind of a random question but when the Raptors are traveling out of town, do they fly out of the same terminals as passengers (T1/T3) or from a different terminal? Also is the plane the same as any other plane or is it customized in some shape or form?_

Behz R, Waterloo

A: They actually depart out of Terminal 1 but they meet at the charter terminal north of the airport, get a bus to the terminal where they have private lines to clear U.S. Customs and Immigration and security clearance.

The plane? A standard Airbus outfitted with extra-large seats and only about 50 of them so there’s all kinds of room to relax.

-

Q: Your comments about AI in (Sunday’s) blog made me think that where certain players land, controversy occasionally follows, and in this regard, if you were not covering the Raptors, which of this year's NBA teams would you find the most intriguing to report on? And why?

Lorie P, London

A: Hmm, so many choices. New York so I could ask about LeBron and 2010 every day? Portland so I could see a young team try to take the next step? Boston so I could hear Doc every day? Cleveland for Shaq and LeBron, not to mention AP and Jamario?

Nah, you know what? I’d like to follow the Lakers.

Diverse personalities ranging from the old head Derek Fisher to the combustible Ron Artest, Kobe and Gasol and Phil, while in large part condescending, might make for good daily copy.

-

Q: Hey Doug, love your work! You keep bringing more to the table and as a Raps fan since day 1 I just can't get enough ... so great job and please keep up the great work. My question is around Marco and his limited playing time. In the pre-season we heard Colanglo talking about 6th man of the year but so far he is averaging about 12 mins a game. Do you see this continuing or do you think he will start to get more playing time as the season moves along.

Alex H, Oakville

A: I think with the way Wright’s been playing and with the depth they have at the two-three positions, it’s going to be hard for Marco to get much more time than he is now, barring injuries, of course.

And, yes, that will limit any serious chance at a major post-season award but I also think Bryan might have been over-stating things with his pre-season assessment.

-

Q: Writers always consider their audience. When you write do you consider the fact that Raptor brass and even the players can and do read your blog or do you just focus on being like Oak, telling it how it is regardless.

Jeffrey M, Saint John

A: I can’t really write for any targeted readership because it’s very diverse. What you try to do is find a good story and tell it well and hope that it informs and entertains a large segment of the readership.

The regular weekly mail offerings

Something to get you through until the first early Sunday start of the season. Oh, and before you see the next episode of GruntTV.

Have fun.

-

Q: Hey Doug,_do you grunts get to participate in "Take your Kids Day?”

Mary L, Ajax

A: We can, if we had kids in Grade 9 but even then it’d only be to a practice or maybe a shootaround. There is such limited seating and such a demand that the Raptors can’t justify giving credentials and seats to anyone other than legitimately working journalists.

But I have taken a friend’s child to a Take Your Kids To Work Day one time for a practice and I’m sure they were bored to tears. Lots of standing around before the process of interviewing players actually takes place.

-

Q: So it's the morning after the first game and I'm wondering if you think the parade should go down Yonge Street, or if perhaps it should go across Eglinton, the geographic middle of the GTA?

Andy W, Toronto

A: I think it should go down Beale Street.

-

Q: Hi Doug.

At a literary festival I recently attended a question frequently asked of the authors concerns their particular writing process eccentricities - and they all seem to have at least one pretty unique requirement to stimulate and maintain their creative flow. One needed a completely quiet room with a half-filled glass of Glenfiddich. Another had to be wearing a specific item of clothing with her cat sleeping on a corner of the desk. Someone else could only write with a certain brand of paper and another certain type of pencil - but there was a weather variable to be worked in on that one, too...very complicated stuff. (And, even stranger - and certainly harder to live with - we were told that Gustav Flaubert had to shout out every word in his garden...yikes!!)__So, I am curious, Doug. Is there any one (or more!) things that you find are helpful in encouraging the free flow of your own writing process? A particular trick, quirk or idiosyncrasy to keep the "block" at bay? Thanks.

Lorie P, London

A: Given that I do most of my game work surrounded by 19,000 or so screaming fans, the need for solitude to think goes out the window. In fact, sometimes the energy of the crowd helps get the blood racing and the mind going.

And I guess because I write in such different surroundings – loud arenas, sort of loud press rooms, home with the TV going and hotel rooms with the TV going, too – I’d say the only thing I really need is some kind of white noise.

But there is one thing I do. If I’m stuck, I’ll walk around and talk myself through a story because I do think good writing is as much audible as anything, I want readers to “hear” the words as well as see them and read them.

So I’ll wander, talking quietly to myself and not once has anyone suggested I be committed. At least not for that.

-

Q: Sometimes you give us tidbits of the travel schedule for "grunts" and this week's flight schedule seems to have been particularly grueling. ("3:30a.m. wake up call for a 6:00 a.m. flight")

It seems to me that some of the media travel with the team on the chartered flights and some don't. How does that work? Do you get to travel with the team or are you stuck flying commercial all the time? How does it get decided?

Brenda C, Sault Ste. Marie

A: Team employees, those in the radio and television end of things, travel with the team. The few of us who travel regularly – and that’s a dwindling number – fly commercial and stay in far less opulent digs. We may meet up with members of the “official traveling party” for dinner and the like, but we take diverse routes to get there.

-

Q: The recap of Friday's game indicates (actually it clearly stated as much) that the Raptors weren't gritty enough inside. Which makes me think-- 'Gosh I sure wish we had a guy like Reggie Evans to help.' So I'm wondering if there is any update on his status. And if not how long might he be out of the lineup at the most?

TC W, North York

A: Lots of interest in Reggie, especially in light of what he might have done against Memphis. I saw him Saturday, he’s got a boot on but not crutches. No one’s saying anything official but it’s going to be a couple of weeks at least, just judging by the conditioning he’s lost and the fact he’s not walking on his own yet.

-

Q: Quick question for you Doug. When they give out the rings at the champion's first home game of the next season, it is very likely that some of the players who were on the championship team are no longer with the current team. Some may have retired and other have been traded. Just wondering if you recall a time when a traded player just happened to be on the visiting team the night they raise the banner. It would seem strange to get a ring wearing the other team's uniform._Wishing you may treats and few tricks.

Richard Y, Kincardine

A: I don’t recall any specific opening night situations like that but there have been several occasions where a visiting player has received his ring from a former team at his first game back in town. And I’d bet on every occasion they’re warmly welcomed.

-

Q: Looking at Bargs, Rasho, Shaq and Z crowding the floor simultaneously on Wednesday (for at least 2 different stretches), I was trying to think of the last time I've seen 4 real seven footers on the floor at once. I can't imagine it happens too often given the dearth of 7 footers who can actually play! Have you seen it?

Neils H, Toronto

A: I certainly don’t recall it; you’ve had great twosomes like Tim Duncan and David Robinson and, back in the day, Hakeem Olajuwon and Ralph Sampson but four? None that come quickly to my mind.

-

Some mail to waste away the hours

Everyone calmed down from Friday night? Ready to build some angst before Wednesday? Maybe this will distract you for a while.

-

Q: Hi Doug. Curious, what was the pre-season record of the 06/07 Raptors?

I'm reading a fair amount of "the sky is falling" response to our current pre-season record. So I thought, well, maybe the closest comparison would be to the last time there was a wholesale change to the roster. I've tried searching, but can seem to find it. Can you dredge it up?

And based on what you find, is it a reasonable/fair comparison? Seems to me that it could possibly be slow start, but may be potential to grow as the season goes on.

What I don't know is... are the schedules/opponents comparable, etc.

Kate C, Toronto

A: Oh, boy. I’m afraid it’s going to feed in the level of hysteria that’s out there. They went 7-1 in that pre-season, rattling off seven straight wins before losing in Chicago. Beat Cleveland, sans LeBron twice, Boston before the Big Three twice and won over an Israeli club team, but still …

Anyway, the dose of reality comes when it’s pointed out they began that season losing eight of their first 10, including six in a row on a western road trip that’s a lot like the first month they’ll have this time around.

They didn’t get back to the .500 level until Jan. 26, when they beat Boston to go 22-22.

The pre-season record notwithstanding, I can see many similarities. They have a bear of a schedule to start and there’s no reason to think they won’t be far below .500 maybe 15 or 20 games into the season.

And if you think the sky is falling now, wait until the first five-game losing streak of the regular season.

-

Q: Doug, based on BC's comments the Raps expect a significant contribution from Marco Belli off the bench. But he only played about 8 minutes in Friday's game. Why did he not play more? Is he one of the guys who is still not buying into the defensive system - and therefore not playing much until he does?__And I have to say that, overall, the bench has been underwhelming.

Paul M, Ottawa

A: He didn’t play more because he wasn’t playing well and they wanted to give as many minutes as possible to Antoine Wright, who needed them more than Belinelli.

Yes, he has been underwhelming, no question there. Can he be better? I think he can but if he doesn’t play better in practice, he’s going to find himself further down the depth chart.

-

Q: Oh man, Doug, are you ever right about shooting 3's._Did you see_http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/18/sports/basketball/18threes.html?scp=1&sq=30%20years%20three%20point%20shot&st=cse

Wow. I had no idea abt. these %'s and the simple fact that on average a team that cannot shoot 60% 2's (and none can) cannot defeat teams that get up around 35-40% 3's. So the next time Jose is sent to the corner for the three point shot we will all know why!

Q: Is it starting to look as if a poor lot of 3 pt shooters may be our Achilles heel this season?

Charles N, Toronto

A: Oh yeah, the three-point shooting to now has been horrific, 24.4 per cent is simply abysmal. But I’m not sure an eight-game sample is large enough to judge anything definitively.

However, I’ve been inundated with e-mails of people suggesting this team is going to be the worst three-point shooting team ever off that eight-game sample.

So, I will point out that I’d rather look at a career perspective than one pre-season and I can be secure in saying I expect Jarrett Jack (1-15) to be closer to his 322-game percentage of 34 than he is; I expect Andrea Bargnani (8-25 now in eight games) to gravitate to his career 38 per cent effectiveness and I know for certain they will suggest to DeMar DeRozan (3-11) that shooting three-pointers is not in his, or his team’s, best interest.

I can also say with absolute certainty that in the next 10 games Quincy Douby (0-6), Sonny Weems (1-5) and Marcus Banks (2-5) won’t post those numbers because they won’t play enough to get up those shots.

So, yes, they cannot shoot very well right now; if it persists for eight or 10 regular season games, it will be an issue. I don’t think it will.

-

Q: Hey Doug,_how about a top five two way players in Raptors history, based on their time with the Raptors.

David S, Toronto

A: Ah, man, you know I’m going to forget someone on this list for sure, right? So, here goes

Doug Christie

Alvin Williams

Mo Pete

Antonio Davis

Damon Stoudamire

-

Q: Doug, caught a bit of the Orlando-Chicago preseason game on Monday and what stuck out for me was how far down the players now have to sit as they continue to add "Nicholson" seats. The Bulls were practically on the baseline. How do players and coaches feel about being so removed from the game?

Derek B, Toronto

A: I caught a bit of that, too, and all I can say is that it’s a sign of the times. I imagine there’ll come a time when the entire bench, except for perhaps coaches are at or beyond the baseline.

And no player I’ve ever talked to has had an issue about it, really. They’re still “in the game” so to speak.

Here's a bunch of mail to start your day

Well, we culled a wee bit and got this down to about 60 per cent of what appeared last week. Still lots, though.

I bet it’s more than enough to keep you busy until 3 when the in-game portion of a long Sunday unfolds.

See you then

-

Q: There was an article today in the NYT regarding the NBA's launch on its website of a "Video Rule Book". I followed the link and spent way too much time watching video replays (the NBA turned off the audio portion turned so as not to confuse!) illustrating fouls, penalties and all manner of other game violations. Have you had a chance to look at this?

Do you think it is a useful educational tool? Or do you think in part it was designed (and launched at this particular time)to generate some fan understanding of the difficulty of the task at hand for The Replacements Referees?

The article also goes on to say the league has encouraged referees to be "more accessible" to reporters to explain contested calls. Have you ever been able to interview a referee about such a call? Is there any media access to referees post game?

Lorie P, London

A: I have seen it and think it’s quite good, actually. Each year during the pre-season, or right at the start of the season, the referees would hold sessions with the writers and broadcasters in each city to go over the points of emphasis for the coming season, along with any rule changes and what they might mean. We haven’t had that this year – and I doubt we will – but it’s kind of like what they’ve put on line now.

And, yes, referees are supposed to be more available to writers this year but I’ll believe that when I see it. The rule is we have to ask, through the home team’s PR staff, for comment on a rule interpretation from the crew chief. He, or she if it’s Violet Palmer, aren’t obligated to speak but we’re told they are being encouraged to be more open. We can’t, though, as for interpretation of any subjective ruling – like a foul, for instance.

-

Q: I am a HUGE Jose fan, and love the dimes and his unselfish play. He is the ultiamte teammate, and use him as an example for many young players to follow. He has shown he can penetrate and shoot. But can the Raps be a contender if Jose doesn't step it up to be a legit 18 - 20 pt scorer like a Tony Parker? Was his preseason shooting just rust, or do you see him maybe taking a step back in scoring?

Marc I, Waterloo

A: This is classic.

Pre-season shooting rust? He’s shooting a high percentage from the field (51.6-49.7), from three-point range (41.7-40.6) and the free throw line (1.000-98.1) than he did last season. We should all be so rusty.

His assist to turnover ratio (if you take that first game in London out of the mix because it was his first game in five months with a host of new and unfamiliar teammates so I’m giving him a pass on it) is 6-1. He hasn’t committed more than one turnover in any of the last five games.

But, no, he doesn’t have to score 18-20 points a game at all, given the presence of Bosh, Bargnani and Turkoglu. They’ll do the scoring, he’ll do what he does best, set ‘em up and run the stuff.

-

Q: Hi Doug: Really like your idea to lower prices for exhibition games - it would be so great for many, especially in a city like Hartford during such a hard economic time. Incidentally, Hartford baseball fans divide 50-50 between Red Sox and Yankees with a small nod to Sox. Wonder how those Sox fans feel about Yankees advancing to Division Playoffs.

Q: How do coaches get big name players to feel good about sharing best shot opportunities? The Celtics used "player legacy - win a championship before you retire" - a smart technique for older players - two years ago to get their Big 3 to cooperate. But 2 of our Big 3 are younger: what determines how well they'll share? Coaching? The players character? Winning-losing? What a challenge when players have so much reason these days to seek best personal stats.

Charles N,Toronto

A: I hate to sound crass or something but it’s usually very simple: Money and fame.

Most players are concerned about what they’ll make, what their next contract would be and, on many occasions, if a coach says, “Hey, look, you got your money, now how about winning some games as a team?” it will work. Conversely, some coaches will use the old: “Hey, they don’t pay losers, if you want a good deal, get some wins under your belt.”

That sounds a bit cynical, I’m sure, but I’ve heard coaches use that philosophy.

But it’s also character, personality and chemistry.

If you have good men who realize the reason they play games is to win and it doesn’t matter how that’s accomplished, for if you have a group that likes each other and basks in the glory of a teammate as much as themselves, that goes a long way towards instilling the type of “team-first” attitude good squads have.

It’s a huge challenge for coaches, far more than coming up with some variation of the four or five plays that every team in the basketball universe uses and it’s usually what separates good coaches from not-so-good.

-

Q: Doug, good work.

Not sure if you addressed this yet but has BC given you any indication if he would be picking up Belinelli's 2010 option?

I have high hopes for Marco from all of the Youtube clips I have seen of his exploits but I have been somewhat underwhelmed by the little bits of him that I have seen in exhibition play.

Rene L, Winnipeg

A: I spoke to Bryan about this a week or so ago. They do have until Oct. 30 to exercise that option and are currently mulling it over. But because it’s so relatively cheap, $2.372 million, I fully expect they will pick it up. And he has been underwhelming, but it’s only been six exhibition games, I wouldn’t worry too much about it; I think he’ll be fine.

-

Q: I was listening to Kobe being interviewed on the Dan Patrick show last week. Dan asked him what the most significant trade was in the off-season outside of the Lakers, and Kobe said it was Cleveland's acquisition of Anthony Parker. Dan challenged him on this, but Kobe was quite adamant that Parker brought a veteran presence into the locker room, as well as the ability to defend his position, and hit the 3 when required. Kobe said not to understate the importance of that on a championship calibre team.

Interesting.

In your opinion, who were the key acquisitions made that could propel teams over the top?

Mark L, Abbotsford

A: I think AP’s going to be a very solid addition in Cleveland, especially now with questions about how much – or maybe even if – Delonte West will play. So, right now, I’d put him as the key addition in the East.

In the West, I think hands down it’s Richard Jefferson in San Antonio and the one that’s flying under the radar is Antonio McDyess with the Spurs as well.

-

Q: Hi Doug. This question may have been asked 10,0000 times before. Please excuse me if it has. Are the Raptors practices ever open to the public?

Thanks so much for your time.

Sandra R, Ajax

A: I’m not sure if it’s been asked or not, so please don’t worry about that

The answer, though, is no. The one thing they do – and have already done – is host a Read To Achieve shootaround for kids.

The public, and the writers, never get a chance to see a full practice.

-

Q: Hi Doug,I noticed that a number of folks (Matt Devlin, Adnan Virk, Paul Jones, etc) were wearing pink ribbon ties on Sunday's pre/postgame broadcasts on RaptorsTV as part of MLSE's 'Pink Ribbon Weekend'.

Would you happen to know where the ties can be purchased?

Diana T, Mississauga.

A: I’ve asked around and the best I can come up with is if you go to the team’s website and click on the Teams Up Foundation link, there’s a Breast Cancer Awareness auction icon that would be the only place to check.

Almost too much mail to handle

You know what? This mail thing’s almost getting too out of hand. I think I have to start culling or something because it’s almost too all-encompassing.

That said, though, this has to be enough to get you through until for the in-game blog this afternoon at 3.

Oh, and Happy Thanksgiving.

See ya later.

-

Q: Hey Doug, I just wanted to hear your thoughts on what you think of the upgrades done on the ACC and just how different and innovative it actually is.

Also, just to clarify, as a Kobe fan, Demar isn't the only one in the NBA wearing his shoes. Last year, on the Lakers alone, Pau, Lamar, Ariza and Fish all wore a pair. In that picture on your blog right now, Amir Johnson is wearing them as he goes for the swat on Andrea.

Also, if you've got any thoughts about the Eastern Conference playoff, please fill us in because people can't seem to get over the Boston, Cleveland, Orlando shuffle up top. Personally, I really can't see Boston being nearly as good, KG's progress is not nearly what they had hoped for and neither is his tenacity. I really don't like hearing about us being rated as the 7th or 8th best team when I feel like we addressed almost every single weakness aside from a completely proven two-guard.

Andrew K, Markham

A: The upgrades? Not at all innovative and quite like a few other arenas with wide-open atriums to welcome fans. I do think the plaza outside will be a neat place to be if either of the tenants ever do anything of consequence. Other than that, it does shift the focus from the cramped area at the entrance by Union and I guess that’s a good thing.

I’ll take your word on the shoes thing, I’ve never written a single word about it and probably won’t and I’m not ready yet to handicap either conference.

-

Q: We the emergence of all this 2 way communication between the people and journalists has it changed you're job drastically? Do you ever go about you're grunt work differently ie asking questions based on the mood of you're readership or whatever crazy concerns the common people have?

JF P, Trois-Rivieres

A: Drastically? Yes. There’s more of it – like this, and in-game blogs – and it’s far more “immediate” than it used to be but as for asking questions and doing what I’ve done for the past 15 years covering this team, I don’t think so.

I have a much clearer picture now of the oft-violent mood swings of some readers and many fans but I still do what I’ve done, ask questions that have context and will hopefully lead to good stories well told.

There is a tendency among some fans to over-react, things are never as bad as they think nor as good as they seem, I think it’s part of the gig to try to bring overall context to the day-to-day aspect of covering a team.

-

Q: Does Brian Colangelo value Marco Belinelli more highly than most GMs and analysts? Do you think he sees something that others are missing, or is he just off-base? I haven't seen much of Belinelli myself, so I'm curious as to how he works out._

Tim M, Kingston

A: I think Belinelli is a good, young, raw player with some skills and a feel for the game you can’t teach. I think there are probably other GMs who feel that way, they just didn’t get the opportunity to make a deal to get the player.

-

Q: I remember when Jose and TJ were both still here, right after one of them did anything the camera panned to the other one sitting on the bench. Without words, the camera was constantly playing up the rivalry between the two of them.

It's not something I ever hear being talked about, how the camera influences our opinions and perceptions of reality during a sports broadcast. Can you speak to that a bit? Any other instances of propaganda?

David S, Toronto

A: I’m sure the camera influences the opinion of fans and I’m sure it sometimes makes for good television but it does nothing for the people who really matter – the coaches and other players.

But I also know some teams in some sports and their broadcasters are cognizant of not riling up the paying customers with what they show, or talk about. For instance, there was an edict in Phoenix – and I believe it still holds – that the local Suns broadcasters could not have Bryan Colangelo on as a guest once he left.

But as for shaping opinion of decision-makers, it doesn’t happen.

-

Q: I was at that game in 1995,in Saint John and was thrilled to have a Toronto Raptors game in our city. I also realized then that pre-season games are not to be taken seriously by fans, as you so rightly pointed out.

You cannot believe the number of times people have been put on flights to Newfoundland, instead of NB by less than knowledgeable travel agents. We had the World Junior Figure Skating championships here a few years back, and an entire team from some east European country landed in St. John's, NFLD and tried to get a taxi to drive them to Saint John, NB. A distance like from here to Montreal.

Anyway, glad you're back._

Peter G, Saint John

A: There is no question here but it’s a great story I figured I’d share.

-

Q: Wednesday night's game seemed to show a huge inability of a number of the Raptors to sink a free throw. Why don't they make each guy who misses a free throw in a game do half an hour of free throws after practice for a week. Free throws are a gift and decide a number of close games.

Jim A, Cambridge

A: What if I told you they do shoot free throws for half an hour or so after each practice? And that they shoot several times during practice, like after they run a drill, they’ll stop and shoot FTs, they’ll stop scrimmages to shoot free throws when they’re tired.

Yes, many games may be decided when a team misses – or makes – a large number of foul shots; yes, they do work on them. No, they are all not as prolific as, say, Jose.

-

Q: Is Sonny Weems a D League candidate for us?

Steven S, Ajax

A: Well, as a second year player he’s eligible but it’s not something they’re thinking about at all at the moment. And I highly doubt they’d send him away; he’d get more out of getting good coaching and going against NBAers in practice every day than he’d get in the D League.

-

Q: Thank you for all your work with Basketball and the Raptors. You got me through university. When I wasn't studying, which may have been the majority of the time, I was catching up on your blog. Again, thank you.

I have two questions. First, what kinds of PR training do players receive? During CB4's first couple of years he wasn't very articulate. "Ya know..." was redundant in his speech.

My second question: what kind of leash is put on rookies? I remember watching a interview with Barg and it was cut by some pissy lady who said it was over._

Chris L, Waterford

A: Most teams have seminars early each season on media relations and how to conduct oneself. The Raptors usually do it in November on the road where it’s easier for a consultant to get to them. And there is no “leash” at all, actually. I don’t know who “some pissy lady” was but this team hasn’t employed a female who’d be in a position to do that in Andrea’s four years with the team. Not sure what you’re referring to.

A whole lot of mail in here for you

Man, a guy can get a lot of crap done in a 4 1-2 hour train ride.

And it’s going to give you something to do for a little while, too, there’s a lot here to digest.

-

Q: At training camp and during the season, are all media treated equal (ie. same access to players/coaches/management) or is their additional access for 'elite' media? I am sure the Raptors must realize the audience size of each media person and the impact on publicity for the team (ie. through largely followed blogs like yours).

Jeff W, Waterloo

A: Oh, no, it’s equal access for everyone that covers the team and isn’t employed by it.

We all arrive early most days, sit around talking to each other, they throw the doors open and we all descend on the court.

We do a scrum with Jay while the players finish up stretching and shooting drills and then they are available for about a 15-minute period to anyone with a credential that wants to talk to them.

No special treatment for anyone; I guess the closest thing to that would be the fact the team’s television network has unfettered access to practice.

-

Q: Hey Doug, just starting reading your blog, love your work.

I have a question about the cohesiveness of the team. Do you see issues with team chemistry when the regular season starts? Our roster is barely recognizable from last year and it seems logical that it would take more than a training camp for them to get used to playing with each other. (I know Bosh and Jackm a played together in College but that can hardly be considered anymore).

Ryan T, Toronto

A: If by “issues” you mean instances where passes go awry because someone went this way instead of that way or baskets are given up because someone was here instead of there then, yes, there are going to be issues.

But I don’t think there’ll be too many and I don’t think they’ll be too crippling.

And from what I’ve seen of the interaction among the players – and this is like 40 minutes a day after practices and on the benches during that scrimmage – everyone does get along and there seem to be no “divisions” at all. One day you’ll see these two guys sitting chatting after practice, the next day you’ll see one of them and someone else goofing off and so on.

So in that regard, I don’t think there’s any reason to worry.

-

Q: Hi Doug. Question about player grievances. Does the system work like it does in most other companies? IE, the players would be the employees, the assistant coaches would be supervisors, Triano a manager, Colangelo the HR guy and MLSE the company’s owner.

This is something we rarely see reported. Do you ever hear of grievances being filed? What may be considered a common grievance? Who are or have been in the past the most aggressive player (s) in challenging, or ensuring that the contract is upheld to its highest standard? Can a players grievances ever be directed at the league officials?

This is an interesting area that would shed light on some dynamics that we as fans would never know or understand without some insight and understanding.

Thanks as always.

Steph R, Glencoe

A: It’s really not comparable to anything in the corporate world, actually.

And the “grievances” I hear about are players whining about playing time but if there are issues like when the plane will leave after games, what hotels to stay in, what time to depart for a road trip, it’s generally the coach, in consultation with the captains, who make those decisions and there is no formal “process.”

Now, once the league gets involved in things and fines and suspensions are handed down, there is an appeal process set out in the collective bargaining agreement where the union gets involved.

That happens for big issues like the brawl in Auburn Hills, Sprewell choking P.J. Carlesimo, and the like.

-

Q: Hi Doug, 'New Media' related question for you. I notice your stories get sampled/quoted from on different hoops related websites and blogs. How does this sit with you and the folks you work for? Is it a good thing, a bad thing? Are there ground rules for doing this? I would think that on one hand it's flattering but on the other you have people profitting from your work instead of you or the Star.

Marc B, Brampton

A: Not sure if it’s good or bad, just seems to be the way things are these days. Guess it’s good in that if, say, TrueHoop, puts me in that blog it drives traffic to our site.

It’s bad when people take it and read it out of context or put their own “headlines” on it that misconstrue the story and give a false impression.

But, these days, anything you write’s in the public domain so quickly and bouncing around the internet there’s really nothing you can do.

-

Q: Any word yet on how often the in-game blogs will occur? Live @ ACC for home games, at your house/bar with a personal TV, or just some home and some away? I enjoyed taking part last year. If I couldn't catch a game I would always read through the in-game blog to see what was discussed when I got home.

Adam R, Toronto

A: Oh, we’ll be doing them every night from wherever I am. And having done the schedule of travel up until mid-January, I seem to recall there are too many games – none in the pre-season and none at home – that I’ll miss.

But when I’m not on the road, I’m thinking the comfort of Casa Doug will be the workplace.

-

Q: Hey Doug! What are the chances that Marco starts over DeMar DeRozan? And how much potential do you see in DeMar's game?

Zeeshan D, Karachi

A: Very little at the moment. I’m sure Jay will say everything’s still open but the simple fact is this: If they’re going to get DeRozan any minutes, they are going to have to start him and give him 10-14 a night.

Potential? Boundless if he works on his shot and his defence. But potential isn’t worth a thing if he won’t work hard.

-

Q: What do you see as being the Raptors' identity this year? All too often in the past few years it has been murky at best.

Ken W, Kitchener

A: Identity? I know they’d like to be known as a top-10 defensive team; I presume what they will be come is a good offensive team and a middle of the road defensive one.

-

Q: Doug - why does the NBA list players heights with shoes on? For example, DeMar is 6'5.5" and the NBA/raptors list him as 6'7" (with shoes on, I guess?) They appear to do this for all the players.

What gives? Is it for marketing/appearance reasons?

Chris R, Toronto

A: I’d have to say it’s because they play in shoes.

-

Q: I wanted to double-check Alvin Williams is also at training camp and what is his role currently with the team? You didn't mention him when you mentioned the coaching staff.

Michael C, Richmond Hill

A: He’s here, an assistant coach for player development. A step down from the likes of Marc Iavaroni, Alex English and Micha Nori. He and Eric Hughes are the same level.

They work mainly on drills and in practice and aren’t as heavily involved in personnel or strategy decisions.

-

Q: Hey Doug, big Fan, follow your in game blog as I watch games and read everyday. Just had a question in terms of taking this team to the next level. In the summer BC was a guest on the Fan590 talking about how the board was completely behind every move this summer and that they are behind BC if he needed to go ahead to further improve this team. So lets say the Raptors have 35-40 wins by deadline day. Does management give BC the green light to go ahead and make a move for that missing piece regardless of money?

David S, Burlington

A: It’s impossible to say. Sorry. It would depend entirely on who the player was, what the long-term financial commitment was and what, if any, cost there would be in other players.

And I cannot pretend to guess how the board would react but I will say this: Bryan can be extremely persuasive.

A hefty mailbag to end the off-season

All kinds of good stuff here, about the process and the people and the game. Have at it, folks, and then get some rest because tomorrow’s the big day.

-

Q: So, the players are all back in town and the serious workouts, drills, training begins. But I wonder, is there an equally arduous program of pre-season preparation for beat grunts? How do you know when you, too, are "season-ready"?

Lorie P, London

A: Like most finely-tuned, mentally-sharp professional athletes, we never really get out of shape. But we do spend part of the summer taking care of the aches and pains that built up over the last season, hangnails and headaches and the like.

Now, though, with camp approaching (and I think I speak for many of my colleagues) I find myself spending more time working on my skills and getting my mind in the right spot to face a long season.

I get in an individual workout once a day to stay sharp and I’m studying the playbook for the coming season, going over such things as new flight paths, hotel renovations and the latest in fermented energy drinks.

-

Q: Hey Doug, the blog is fantastic, I read it religiously. Just looking for a little insight into the mind of a basketball reporter. What makes a player great as they interact with the members of the media scrum? Who were/are the all-time Raptor greats with the media?

Andy F, Toronto

A: The three things I look for, personally, are honesty, insight and a willingness to answer questions win or lose.

Some of the greats? This list has been out there but it’d include Oak, probably Mo Pete, TJ used to stand and talk right away regardless of the outcome of the game or his role in it and Alvin Williams, when you got him to open up, was excellent.

Under-rated? Antonio Davis, who seldom blew us off and while he didn’t always say truly insightful things, Vince Carter talked every shootaround, post-game and off-day that we asked him to.

-

Q: Doug_Re: your comment about female role models in basketball. Absolutely in agreement here! I would like to add that women's basketball could provide a good role model for the boys and men, too. They play a sound fundamental game which can be very rewarding to do and to watch. I appreciate your coverage of it - do you think that the women's game can ever come to be fully appreciated?

Alfred D, St. John’s

A: No, I don’t think it can. There are pockets of fans but most basketball fans don’t appreciate a game played more slowly and below the rim. Too bad.

It’s not inferior, it’s just different and it can be embraced without having the spectacular athleticism we sometimes see in the men’s game.

-

Q: Hey Doug- here's one for the mailbag, more on the sports journalism side of things than the basketball.

Although I know there's not much hard news to report these days, I'm sometimes shocked at how rare a Raptors article is. Don't you get the freedom to try to go out and 'get' a story? Talk to a player, find an angle, say an update about a player's lifestyle at home in the off-season, etc? Is it your editors or you that gets to decide when a story like that should be in the paper? Do you often go to your editors with story ideas that they shoot down, or would they support whatever you proposed? Have you ever been encouraged to play up an angle that you didn't feel entirely comfortable writing about? Or chased a story despite being warned off it? Thanks for your insight!

Stephen M, Toronto

A: It's rare in the summer, which is actually a bit of August and September, because players are off and don't want to be bothered, a lot of us are off or doing something else to satisfy the bosses. That's why you don't see a lot of basketball -- anywhere -- for large chunks of the summer.

In my case, story ideas are often collaborative, I'll suggest a few, the bosses might suggest one but, often, they give me great latitude to come up with the right story each day. And that's the hardest part of the job sometimes, trying to find interesting pieces to tell well over the long haul of a season.

Encouraged to play up an angle? Not sure what that means but, yeah, over the course of a career I've had my share of chats with editors about substance and style and always work it out.

No sure what you mean by being "warned off" a story. Yeah, there have been people ticked about what I've written or questions I've asked or angles I've pursued but that doesn't mean you don't keep going.

-

Q: Thanks for the update on Joey. Seems like a nice guy.

ESPN has been giving Jose some fantasy love. Nice.

I read your benchmarks for success, what would you consider a failure (first month, must trade, season?) Not being a downer here, just curious for your view.

Bruce M, Winnipeg

A: This team will be measured by where it finishes at the end of the season and what it does in the playoffs.

Yes, there will be blips along the way, losing streaks and, I presume, streaks of poor play. But those will be meaningless until the entire season’s body of work is considered.

-

Q: Hi Doug, With all this pre-season talk, and the Raps hitting up Ottawa shortly, I was wondering if you've heard talk of the Raps coming to Montreal for a pre-season game. Yes, yes, I know that on a pucks level, Montreal is the enemy, but for Montrealers like me, the Raps are our team. I can only imagine that a pre-season game played here would help more to build the fan base.

Any chance the team could be up here for a visit in the next few years, or is the idea just too heretic?

Charlie D, Montreal

A: I would guess Montreal is on the list of cities in Canada they’d like to visit but I also imagine it’s quite far down the list. I’d say it’s behind Vancouver, Halifax, Ottawa, probably Winnipeg, Calgary and Edmonton so I wouldn’t be waiting for a pre-season game in the near future.

Oh, and they need to go back to St. John’s first, too.

-

Q: Hey Doug, I read that Joey Graham signed a non-guaranteed contract. What does that actually mean "non-guaranteed"?

Keep up the good work and thanks!

Ryan M, Burlington

A: It means he has to make the team to get a contract; they tell him they’ll pay him “X” dollars if he makes it but if they cut him, there’s no financial obligation.

-

Q: With more all-star calibre talents on the starting 5, do you see Jay Triano trying to keep at least one of Jose, Hedo, Andrea or Chris always on the floor, especially with the second unit? Or is the second unit strong enough that would allow Jay Triano to rest all four at the same time?

Manny T, Toronto

A: I think he’d probably like to structure his usual rotation to have one of them on the floor but there will be nights with foul trouble and injuries where that’s not possible.

And given the second unit seems to be Jack, Belinelli, Wright, Evans and Nesterovic or perhaps Johnson depending on the opponent, I think they’d be okay going with that five for short stretches.

My goodness, you people are inquisitive

Okay, this is out of control. It’s like a regular season mailbag after four straight losses and the angst level’s off the charts. But, it’s fun, I guess.

Anyway, I’ve got a deck full of three dozen or so dragon boaters and the various spouses and significant others coming by later this afternoon so I better get to the cleaning and fussing.

Have fun, I’ll get back to your comments later and I see a handful of questions that came in overnight Saturday that I’ll get to during the week.

-

Q: I'll make it short and sweet. Based on everything we've seen to this point, is Andrea worth 50 Million?!?!?! I say "hell nah" and you say.

Felix, Markham

A: Nobody’s “worth” $50 million, silly.

Couldn’t tell after his rookie year, no way after his second, who knows after his third but if he continues to do what he did in the second half of last season – when he might have been the third-best centre in the East – and given the salary structure of the league, I think $10 million a season will be a good investment .

-

Q: With rumours of a Russian billionaire buying shares with the Nets, do you see them being big players in the 2010 free agency especially if they are willing to go above the tax limit. I watch a lot of European soccer and the Premier League, there were two prime examples of how foreign billionaires changed the scope and the market of the premier league and European soccer (Manchester City and Chelsea) their willingness to spend extravagant amount of money on star players made it harder on small market teams to sign even mediocre ones.

I know the salary cap system in the NBA dictates what's the maximum a team can spend on a player, but if a rich man doesn't care about paying luxury taxes what would stop him from offering two max contracts to say LeBron and Wade (and team them up with Lopez ,Lee, Harris) which makes their team the top destination for top players with dreams to win a championship and get paid handsomely at the same time (and possibly moving to Brooklyn in 2011 since the money is available). I like the NBA's current system but I’m convinced that if foreign money floods the market the league will suffer. Your thoughts?

Rob H, Victoria

A: No, in the case you make, it’s impossible for any team to simply go out and buy the players they want if they haven’t structured their salary cap situation well enough to have “room” to make two maximum value contract offers. And that’s regardless of the wealth of the owner.

Now, down the road, if any new owner wants to pay a tax, he or she can tell their GM to make as many big-money moves as possible but that has to come through things like trades; not simply because the owner is rich.

The cautionary tale, of course, being that spending doesn’t equal winning, as anyone in New Jersey knows by looking across the river at New York.

-

Q: I am wondering how an NBA coaching staff typically works. What are their lines of responsibility before, during and after a game? (i.e. How is a lead assistant different than the others?). From a Raptors perspective, what does Marc Iavaroni bring to the table besides another Italian name? What are his strengths? Do you think his unsuccessful stint as a head coach at Memphis will make him a better assistant?

Angelo M, Scarborough

A: Nice cheap shot at Marc. Very cheap. Guy played more than a decade in the league (won a title as a rookie starter in Philly in ’83) coached with Mke Fratello, Pat Riley and Mike D’Antoni and has been around the game for almost 30 years.

He is known for being a rather animated assistant, primarily responsible for defensive philosophies (and learning from Riley and Fratello sure didn’t hurt) and will be given that responsibility with the Raptors.

But, yes, his name ends in a vowel.

Yeesh.

Now, as to the other stuff: Their lines of responsibility are, frankly, somewhat blurred. I know you’ll see Iavaroni working primarily with defensive systems and assignments but other than that, the staff is mostly a consensus building team, they discuss things and the more minds and more voices for Jay to pick and listen to, the better.

As for the difference between “lead” assistant and the others, there really isn’t much.

-

Q: Scenario: The raptors are up by 2 points against the Lakers with 10 seconds left in the game. Who do we send in the game to guard Kobe?

Lukasz S, Toronto

A: Depends.

If they run him off the ball, you switch everything to make it difficult for him to get off an uncontested shot.

Not having real knowledge of their individual skills, I imagine in an iso situation, it’s probably Wright or DeRozan, maybe Belinelli Best answer you can get right now.

But whoever it is will be told to try to force him one way or the other to help.

I know you probably think that’s a bailout answer but it’s fact. No one – in the entire NBA – is going to be sent in the game to guard Kobe in that situation. You set up a team defence knowing the ball’s eventually going to get to him. Maybe you start a big on him and “pre-switch” so a swingman gets to him on the inevitable screen but there isn’t “a guy” – again, on any team – to put in specifically in that situation.

-

>Q: Hello Doug, can you provide the latest feedback on the progress of my boy Patrick O'Bryant?

Kawit A, Australia

A: Not really actually. He’s in town working out; saw him in the ACC the other day and they hope he can find some kind of energy and effort that allows him to take advantage of his physical gifts. But, with the presence of Amir Johnson, I think O’Bryant’s probably on quite a short leash.

-

Q: Hi Doug, I am traveling to Ontario on Thanksgiving weekend and I am wondering if there will be any open practices being held. I've been Raptors fan for a long time and this is the first chance I have to actually see a practice or maybe a pre-season game.

Philip P, Steinbach, MB

A: There’s a pre-season game here on the Sunday afternoon of the Thanksgiving weekend, that’ll be your only shot.

-

Q: Doug, I was wondering about how the Referee lockout is going to play out with Canada having tougher labour laws than the US. Who are going to ref the games if the regular referees are still locked out?

Greg W, Toronto

A: This is something I have to look into a bit more on Monday when I’m back it the office. It strikes me the same issue of replacement officials and the Canadian laws came up during a major league baseball dispute with umpires years back and it was resolved.

But the short answer right now is I don’t know for certain.

-

Q: Do you think any team(s) benefit more than another if replacement refs are used?

Matthew S, Vaughan

A: No, I believe it will be consistently inconsistent and equally bad for all 30 teams.

-

Q: I do not understand how firing scouts improves a professional sports franchise's bottom line. How much are these scouts making? Even with high travel expenses and a healthy salary how can the firing of a couple scouts do anything to the Heat or any other team's margins? That's not even factoring in the possibility that once a decade they might find you a 10 million dollar player for 1 million dollars and totally negate the costs in the first place? Are the economics so bad that they just have to make whatever cuts they can, regardless of how meaningless they are, or am I wildly underestimating how much money scout earn? It sounds counter-intuitive to fire scouts when you're trying to trim the budget, since the highest cost is player salaries and they are the most valuable piece for getting savings in that regard.

Jacob A, Toronto

A: Every dollar saved is a dollar saved, I guess that’s how it works. No, it’s not a lot of money but in this day and age, anywhere you can cut without decimating the product may be necessary in some cities.

I have a lot of friends who are, or were, advance NBA scouts who were invaluable sources of information and very good men. But, and this is the argument you’ll get from teams, with every game available every night on video, specific tendencies of opponents are not hard to learn.

And, one of the things advance scouts did was get play calls to put in their reports because they always had courtside seats. Well, in most cities now, those seats are sold to fans and scouts lose their impact sitting at the top of the lower bowl with the writers.

Teams are now likely to “share” NBA scouting by combining on a series of regional employees, which is, I suppose a more cost-effective method.

Now, on college scouting? Losing the full-timers will increase the workload on the remaining staffers and part-timers that teams employ.