The BigFooty 2014/15 NBA Season Preview

[OrdinaryJoel]

Oh god that Boozer gif is brilliant!

 

[Primetime Pricey]

Hey Lads, been away for a bit, but I'll do the Knicks.

Primetime Pricey, Axel Foley feel free to chip in if you don't want to do your own. I already have a paragraph in my head describing the euphoria i feel knowing that Felton won't be running the point. (or running at all).

I would also like to get in before Hans so my preview doesn't look like total arse piss.

I'll chip in.

As following... WE ARE s**t AND A DISGRACE.
The end.

PS Boston can EAD

 

[peternorth]

I'll chip in.

As following... WE ARE s**t AND A DISGRACE.
The end.

PS Boston can EAD

THis post MUST be in the review

 

[Messenger]

The Minnesota Timberwolves - Yet another rebuild


Out: Kevin Love (Cleveland)

Dante Cunningham (free agent)

Alexey Shved (Philadelphia)

Luc-Richard Mbah a Moute (Philadelphia)



In: Zach LaVine (pick #13 UCLA)

Glenn Robinson III (pick #42 Michigan)

Andrew Wiggins (via Cleveland, pick #1 Kansas)

Anthony Bennett (Cleveland)

Thaddeus Young (Philadelphia)

Robbie Hummel (free agent - 1 year, 900k)

Mo Williams (Portland - 1 year, 3.75m)



The Wolves are still suffering the aftershocks of the stewardship of David Kahn, a man hired in the finest Timberwolves tradition of being the friend of someone owner Glenn Taylor trusted.

Kahn had the balance wrong; he spoke of building a championship team, of being a team famed for player development but his deeds pointed to working for a man far too concerned with the bottom line to own an NBA franchise. His nadir came in the frenzy of trading that finished the Kurt Rambis era; a cascade of 2nd round pick trades designed to yield cash sufficient to pay out the two years Rambis was owed. That frenzy yielded, ever so briefly, the draft rights to both Chandler Parsons and Nikola Mirotic.

The drafting failures are well documented, Johnson over Cousins, Flynn over Curry. Of the players Kahn drafted only Rubio looks to be a genuine NBA player. Love and Pekovic were Kevin McHale’s parting gifts.

Kahn’s most destructive came to completion this week. David Kahn looked at Kevin Love and didn’t believe. He once described him as perhaps someone capable of being third fiddle on a playoff team. He tried to sign David Lee in preference to keeping Love on his rookie scale. And when the contract negotiations hotted up, Kahn kept the five year max in his pocket for Rubio (who will never deserve it).

Love got paid, but got the ETO; he is a guy seemingly good at bearing a grudge. Flip Saunders and Rick Adelman mended the relationship but the truth is the moment he signed that contract, he was gone. The shame is we had two good seasons of his prime; he will never be loved like KG, but he will be missed.



Now the Wolves enter their tenth season since making the playoffs as far away from post season action as the day they traded KG.

The Love trade is the most the Wolves could hope for; the last two #1 draft picks and a capable power forward. Wiggins is the real prize and represents the best haul possible in the circumstances. It trades a superstar for potential, but I’d certainly take that over the KG haul and the Wolves organisation specialise in selling pipe dreams.

Depth Chart


PG: Rubio, Williams, Barea

SG: Martin, Brewer, LaVine

SF: Budinger, Wiggins, Muhammad

PF: Young, Bennett, Hummel

C: Pekovic, Dieng, Turiaf


A team shorn of its one superstar - they can roll out a competent starting five, but one that isn’t going to worry any of the good teams.

For better or worse this is Rubio’s team now, Mo Williams promises to be a better back up PG than Barea and capable of playing with the first unit as required. If Barea is moved on, expect Brewer to play as a ball handler (brb, hyperventilating).

At SG, Martin is a defensive liability but helps provide the floor spacing that will give Rubio room to move. LaVine may be a sneaky chance to play more minutes here than expected. Reviews out of Summer League made much of his inability to finish at the hoop, but praised his off ball movement and ability to keep opposing guards in front of him.

Budinger is constantly injured, so the question of how many minutes Wiggins can handle as a rookie is important. He is certainly going to get more playing time than he would’ve in Cleveland. I’d expect Brewer to play minutes at the three if Budinger is out for any significant time.


Young is a good power forward in his prime but his stats suggest he is no better a defender than Love (although he did play for the Sixers last year). Bennett looked in better shape at summer league, so despite what was a horrific rookie season there is hope. No minutes at SF this season, he’ll be a power forward in Minnesota. Hummel is a no mistakes type of player, but if he is playing four you are going super small ball and I think he’ll wish he was in Spain by Christmas. Shabazz Muhammad has the height of a three but the physique and mentality of a power forward, I think he is more likely for the small ball line ups.

Pekovic stomp.

Dieng had a great run at the end of the season and has done good work with the Senegal national team recently. With all the talk of athleticism and vertical leaps, they have a solid centre. And then Rony.


Cap wise, the Love deal isn’t the liberating trade you’d think. The standard problem in Minnesota is not the heartbreaking Amare style cap killer, but the large number of overpayed role players. Martin (6.8m), Barea (4.6m), Brewer (4.7m) and Budinger (5.0m). Sigh


Wolves are on the hook for 11 contracts totally 69mil in 15/16 with 20mil comprising the player options of Young, Brewer and Budinger. Factoring in a generous contract deal for Rubio (55m/4yr) and having those three all opt out (unlikely), the Wolves could have a max salary slot up their sleeve next summer

We’ll likely see a fast paced team trying desperately not to get sucked into half court slog a thons. A mixture of skill, inspiration and a liberal sprinkling of bad luck. Because Timberwolves.


It will be fun. A little bloody, but fun.


My prediction - 30 wins.

 

[AxelFoley]

I'll chip in.

As following... WE ARE s**t AND A DISGRACE.
The end.

PS Boston can EAD

 

[Apple iCup]

Roster:
Damian Lillard
Wesley Matthews
Nicolas Batum
LaMarcus Aldridge
Robin Lopez
Steve Blake
Chris Kaman
Dorrell Wright
Will Barton
Thomas Robinson
Joel Freeland
C.J. McCollum
Allen Crabbe
Victor Claver
Meyers Leonard
Diante Garrett

Off-Season Moves:
Incoming:
Steve Blake
Chris Kaman
Diante Garrett

Outgoing:
Maurice Williams (Minnesota Timberwolves)
Earl Watson (Retired)
TBD

Free Agents:
Steve Blake (Golden State Warriors)
Chris Kaman (Los Angeles Lakers)
Diante Garrett (Utah Jazz)

Drafted:N/A

Depth Chart:
PG: Lillard, Blake, Garrett
SG: Matthews, Barton, McCollum, Crabbe
SF: Batum, Wright, Claver
PF: Aldridge, Robinson
C: Lopez, Kaman, Freeland, Leonard


Notes:
As the current roster stands, there are currently 16 players on payroll, meaning someone will be waivered before October. Unless Portland is trying to keep its doors open for a trade of some sort, I would say those on the endangered list are Leonard, Crabbe, Claver, McCollum and Barton

Though on paper, the acquisition of Blake and Kaman seems great stat-wise, I’m glad that the core is still together and a majority of last season’s list is still around. The heart, love and honest approach this team had for each other was shown on many occasions, one that sticks out is the Blazers come-from-behind road-win against Golden State, after the Bogut’s elbow to Freeland and the Matthews/Williams ejection.


Player Notes:

Point Guards:
Damian Lillard – Currently, this offseason Damian is playing with Team USA and despite the risks that can occur--like Paul George’s unfortunate injury--that participating is in Lillard’s best interest.

There is one thing that Dame’s game lacks, which everyone can agree on, defence. Though playing for the USA Men’s team will not give him insta-game on the defensive end, one could only assume this will add a few tips & tricks to his Arsenal.**

Between Damian’s time off after the elimination by the powerful Spurs and his time trying out for the FIBA World Cup, Damian resumed work with Oakland native Gary ‘The Glove’ Payton. A player that is so hungry to improve their game (especially early in their career) is always a plus.

**Most of this was written two days prior to Lillard getting cut from the team. Dame being cut from the USA team won’t bruise the point guard’s ego nor his basketball. Just notch that one down as another chip on the shoulder to motivate his already stellar career.

If you need clutch, who are you going to call? Lillard. And yes, still blowing my load over the Game 6 shot. So moist.


It doesn’t matter where in the arena he shoots it.



Steve Blake – The Third Coming. When I got notified that Blake was returning to Oregon one thing occurred—semi-chub. Blake’s game has evolved since he was starting Point Guard for a Blazers roster that—I believe—fell well short of its potential [Roy, Aldridge, Batum, Oden, Fernández, Przybilla, Bayless, Outlaw, Webster, Frye, Rodríguez etc]. Despite the fact there is still areas for improvement, I believe this current roster is far superior to that mentioned above.

Blake’s game has matured like a fine wine since his time under Nate McMillan. It will be interesting to see how Steve adapts and is utilized into the Terry Stott’s system. Regardless of how I’m intrigued, I don’t see any mishaps with this off-season move.


Diante Garrett – Honestly I cannot comment on Garrett, which is a shame and now my pre-season review looks s**t and no credibility. Thanks Olshey for making me look like a flog. Perhaps someone from the Jazz side or someone who saw a few Utah games could give some insight.


Shooting Guards:
Wesley Matthews – The hustle and heart from Matthews brings a grin from ear-to-ear when I watch him play.

Early in the season Matthews had an inbounds play set for him that was utilized quite a bit in the season. It took up to late January for opposition teams to take notice of it. From top of the key, I think this play had--something that felt like a 100%--high success rate


Though people spoke of Matthews’ defense, I had not seen it in the eyes of experts. Wes’ job against Harden in the 1st round of the Playoffs just solidified what I had failed to see in prior seasons.


Will Barton – The Thrill is someone I find to be an offensive asset off the bench. Why? Unlike Matthews, Batum and Lillard who prefer to make a majority of their shots from mid-3pt range, Barton likes to cut backdoor and aggressively drive to the basket, which adds another form of attack from an already powerful offensive team.

Although he is explosive off of the pine, Barton does demand a lot of the ball, which can be a double-edged sword. The Pro being his aggressiveness, but he can get flustered at times and turn the ball over. Composure is something that he to work on.

Eg. Though in Game 2 (I think it was) in the Spurs series, The Thrill seemed shaky and made some silly errors which resulted in the ball being stripped. However he was able to redeem himself in the games that followed and cooled down a little.

Before someone gets dizzy with what I am about to say, Will isn’t Kawhi Leonard and I am NOT comparing their basketball abilities. But I do feel as though Bartons 2014 Playoff campaign will benefit him like Leonards 2013 Playoff series did him.

I made a conscious effort to focus on the Summer League this past July, specifically Barton, McCollum, Freeland and Robinson. In this I saw a lot more defensive intensity, better ball-control/security and consistent offensive execution from Will.

Hopefully these will rollover into the 2014-15 season. Especially the defense, as we all know Portland needs more D.


C.J. McCollum – Still has development time up his sleeve another offensive asset. Though we haven’t seen C.J. at his best and this is one of those situations where you’d wish you could have ‘hindsight’ regarding his career. I still think that McCollum would be a great role player for any roster given the opportunity.

Though it would be sad to let him go, I believe he is a great trade asset if Portland was to bundle some players for a Veteran shooting guard.

With Matthews and Baton a roadblock for any major minutes increase, and the fact that Portland lacks in defensive production off the bench. I think it would be wise to try and acquire a Corey Brewer-eque defender. But sometimes you have to make do with what you have.

Despite what I’ve said, I still like the kid’s game.


Allen Crabbe – Good outside shooter. But that’s all I really see out of Crabbe. Portland gave up a bit for him, which makes me curious as to what they see in him, however I still only see Allen as a ‘garbage time’ player


Small Forwards:
Nicolas Batum – I was rather critical of Nicolas after Portland had exited that 2014 Playoffs (see Portland Thread if you really can be bothered). Not because I was out for blood, it was just that quite a few things came to mind that irritated me. One that comes to mind was Batums lack of aggressiveness during the first half of a Rockets game. It was put on record that Mo Williams had given him quite a few words of ‘encouragement’ to pull his head out of the sand and stop playing so passively.

Each player has a roll and I you don’t want a selfish player who falls out of the well-oiled machine, but there were many times (especially early in the season where Portland as a team was virtually hitting every three-pointer it jacked up), Batum would pass up an opportunity to drive open lanes. The guy is great with his lay-ups and even better with his double-clutch moves


Dorell Wright – Like I have mentioned in the Portland thread, I like Dorell Wright and he should get a minutes boost, otherwise it is a waste.

His catch and shoot ability is great, I do get annoyed when I see him put the ball to the hardwood, where he could put up his shot as his shot off of a dribble effects his jumper. However he does have a good ability to drive to the rim and cash it in.

Catch and Shoot…even if the pass isn’t in your favour.


Victor Claver – Waiting for Claver to do a Fernandez. I might come across as a hater, but it’s just that I haven’t seen him play that much (excluding when Aldridge, Robinson and Freeland were all out with injuries).

Anyone who can make it into the league and plays for a national team (especially the Spanish team) shouldn’t be sneezed at though. A good example is; I was frustrated with Mills’ lack of minutes while at the Blazers and now look what he has been able to achieve and rightfully get the praise for.

I don’t see Clavers situation changing this season.


Power Forwards:
LaMarcus Aldridge – Coming off of another career season, LaMarcus selfishly turned down his invitation to represent the United States in the 2014 FIBA squad and for all the right reasons.

In contrast to my opinion with Lillard participating in the tournament, I believe rejecting his call to the USA team is the right thing to do. This is Aldridge’s final year of his current contract and he wants to focus on his 2014-15 campaign.


Thomas Robinson – It’s hard to believe that Portland was able to get a second chance from the 2011 draft class so early, after getting Lillard and Leonard. I still don’t know why he was overlooked by two teams (more so the Kings).

Robinson still has a lot of work, but he is a big man (we have all heard how big men take longer to develop) that shows potential and a willingness to work.

I think that LaMarcus taking T-Rob under his wing will fast-track his growth and feel as though his game is modelled loosely off of LA. Kind of like a young Zach Randolph. He can only get better and will be a great player once given the chance, Portland or elsewhere.

I pick this as Portland’s Play of the Season for 2013-14.



Joel Freeland – Even though Freeland played the 5-spot most of last season, I figured I would categorise Joel to what he is ‘traditionally listed as’. I’m also aware that I put him down as Centre in the depth chart. This is purely because he will get more minutes than Leonard.

The British Bulldog had an outstanding impact off the bench out of the gates, last season. Unfortunantly injuries saw him sidelined for most of the 2013-14 campaign. He showed stability and consistency both offensively and defensively on the low block, that neither Leonard nor Robinson could match.

T-Rob obviously has a higher ceiling than Freelands, but he doesn’t always meet it.

Freeland you could count on to do something game-in, game-out, especially on the offensive glass, which is essential to the Blazers gameplan.


Centres:
Robin Lopez – What can I say about Lopez? WOW. I know he isn’t your All-Star center like his twin brother, but wow. I rolled my eyes as soon as I found out that Portland got Lopez, when the Blazers failed to acquire DeJuan Blair.

I slept on his career-high season that previous year (didn’t watch too many New Orleans games that year). So much so, that I went to a mate and said “This will be Portland’s worst move this off-season, he is a scrub”. WRONG. Like Matthews and Aldridge, also out of contract at the end of the 2014-15 season.

RoLo was a beast against the the Houston towers of Howard and Asik with his hustle off the glass. Though when he does box out, he bends over just a little too much, allowing an opponent to get an elbow/forearm into his back, keeping him down to get the rebound.

Yes, I know he can't get every board, but it does allow the opposition get boards without committing an over the back foul.

Batum and RoLo's pick and roll chemistry is like sex on the court, they read each other so well, you'd think they have played since high school.


Chris Kaman – One could only assume that Oshley and Kaman’s previous relationship at the Clippers was a massive contributor to Chris’ arrival at Rip city, along with former Laker teammate Blake joining him, his statement on where Portland is at and how he believes he can be solid contributor to the team that lacks in big man experience…oh and don’t forget the hunting.

Hopefully Kaman’s on court presence isn’t the only thing that he can bring to the table. Development of young big men like Leonard and Robinson could potentially benefit from this.


Meyers Leonard – Rehashing my notes from my post-season wrap-up on the Portland thread.
Scrub. You can tell by the way he pouts on the bench, he thinks he deserves a bigger role. Regardless of his belief, he doesn't. In fact he is far from it. You get the vibe he doesn't focus on the game from the pine and come the time to get his number called by Stotts, he looks rusty and his mentality lacks.

Then you get the games where you can see his potential and it's as transparent as Glad Wrap. But that doesn't happen often.

A lot of people ask for Leonard to get a chance and say that he has a lot of potential, but this inconsistency and brain-meltdowns are not just from his games in the NBA, but his time at the University of Illinois.

Mark it down, Leonard along with Austin Rivers are busts of the 2011 Draft Class. Or perhaps he can prove me wrong and Kaman can help the young fellow out.


Predictions:
Conference Placing: 4th
Division Placing: 2nd
Win-Loss Ratio: 56-26

All-Star Weekend:
LaMarcus Aldridge (All-Star Game)
Damian Lillard (All-Star Game/Skills Challenge)
Wesley Matthews (3pt Shootout)

Standings:
Eastern Conference:
Chicago Bulls
Cleveland Cavaliers
Washington Wizards
Charlotte Hornets
Miami Heat
Toronto Raptors
Atlanta Hawks
New York Knicks
Brooklyn Nets
Orlando Magic
Detroit Pistons
Indiana Pacers
Boston Celtics
Milwaukee Bucks
Philadelphia 76ers

Western Conference:
San Antonio Spurs
Los Angeles Clippers
Oklahoma City Thunder
Portland Trail Blazers
Golden State Warriors
Dallas Mavericks
New Orleans Pelicans
Houston Rockets
Memphis Grizzlies
Denver Nuggets
Phoenix Suns
Los Angeles Lakers
Sacramento Kings
Minnesota Timberwolves
Utah Jazz

 

[Apple iCup]

Sorry StevieDewar, I was going to inbox it to you, but I figured if it was a joint preview, it would look messy and be way too long. Plus there is the possibility that we may differ in opinions. Hope you're still keen to do one.

 

[Look2Me4Guidance]

Great write up! Blazers 4th? I love the enthusiasm son!

 

[peternorth]

agreed. looking forward to more of the same quality in other teams write ups.

hard act to follow!

 

[Apple iCup]

Great write up! Blazers 4th? I love the enthusiasm son!

I dont find a 4th seed in the West to be a stretch in any form. A fifth seed finish, plus what you'd imagine is a +2 addition in Chris and Steve. Then there is the fact that only Dallas and Clippers made big moves over the offseason.

 

[fidstar]

I still like the Warriors for the 4th seed if the Aussie can stay healthy.

 

[stewie griffen]

Loving the efforts guys

Started work on my Bulls one this afternoon, will hopefully get it online before the end of the week

 

[Look2Me4Guidance]

I dont find a 4th seed in the West to be a stretch in any form. A fifth seed finish, plus what you'd imagine is a +2 addition in Chris and Steve. Then there is the fact that only Dallas and Clippers made big moves over the offseason.

I disagree, but we'll see in April!

 

[Son of Skeletor]

Their M.O.

More grind than a delicatessen run by Britney Spears dancers.


Put on your blue suede walking shoes (coz you're outta here)

F Ed Davis (Lakers)
F James Johnson (Raptors)
G Mike Miller (LeBron's Magical Mystery Tour)


Can't help falling in love (with these sexy new arrivals)

G Vince Carter (Mavs)
G Beno Udrih (UFA)
G Jordan Adams (pick #22)
F Jarnell Stokes (pick #35)


Returned to Sender (failed departures)

"Please welcome your new Principal Skinner... Principal Seymour Skinner!"

Depth Chart

PG Conley / Calathes / Udrih
SG Lee / Allen / Carter/ Adams
SF Prince / Pondexter / Carter
PF Randolph / Leuer / Stokes
C Gasol / Koufos


Where they've been:

2010 40-42 (DNQ)
2011 46-36 (lost to Thunder in 2nd round)
2012 41-25 (lost to Clippers in 1st round)
2013 56-26 (lost to Spurs in WCF)
2014 50-32 (lost to Thunder in 1st round)


Where they're going:





Where they're really going:

In all likelihood, back to the playoffs for a fifth consecutive season.


STRENGTHS

Defence - ranked in the top 10 for the past four seasons. They defend the paint, rebound well, force turnovers and avoid fouls - tick, tick, tick & tick.

Style - the grinding style of the Griz (ranked dead last in pace in both 2013 & 2014) has traditionally held up well in the heat of the playoffs.

Ball Control - because Memphis play inside out, under control and boast two big men with soft hands, they generally avoid careless turnovers

Rebounding - Griz are relentless on the glass, ranking #7 in defensive rebounding and #2 in offensive boards. They eat caroms for breakfast. Then porridge.

Continuity - the core (Gasol, Z-Bo, Conley & Allen) have been together since 2010. Memphis know who they are, and what they have to do.

Pounding the paint - more than half of all NBA teams probably don't have one legitimate post option. The Griz boast two post artists par excellence -

"Hey Z-Bo, remember Hasheem Thabeet?"



Weaknesses

Age - three key members of their team (Z-Bo, Allen and Vinsanity) are in their twilights, while their current starting small forward is no fresh prince.

Small forward - Prince's expiration date has been scribbled out and the package is starting to smell. Quincy Pondexter is next cab off the rank. Rudy who?

Big man depth - Koufos is a solid reserve, but the cupboard is pretty bare after that. Jon Leuer is a nice shooter who plays no D - the anti-Grizzly.

Offensive potency - if Z-Bo or Carter get injured or begin showing their age, there's a distinct lack of shot-making creativity on the roster beyond them.

Shooting - they improved to 19th in 3pt shooting % in 2013/14, but were still dead last in 3pt makes.. and have since lost Miller. No pressure Vince.

"What outside shooting?"


Final thoughts

Memphis did really well to salvage their 2013/14 season after Gasol's injury initially put them well behind the eight-ball in the ultra-competitive West.

After starting a pedestrian 10-15, the mid-season additions of Courtney Lee and James Johnson gave the Grizzlies a surprise second-wind, while Gasol's return coincided with a dramatic return to form, as Memphis closed the regular season by winning 40 of 57 games before giving the Thunder all they could handle in the playoffs.

Coach Dave Joerger was on the ultimate hiding to nothing following in Lionel Hollins's esteemed footsteps, destined to be kicked if the Grizzlies fell down (as he was and they did early) or knocked for having a successful roster handed to him on a platter. It says something for him that he was very much in demand by the time Memphis's season came to a close - in Minnesota to be precise.

Loopy owner Robert Pera made the strange decision to authorise his departure, meaning the perennial playoff team would have been looking for their third head coach in 12 months. He then made the even stranger decision to about-face and instead give Joerger an extension. I think we might be looking at the NBA's answer to George Steinbrenner here people.

So, what does 2014/15 hold in store for the men in Beale St blue? I think their depth has taken a bit of a hit, losing Johnson, Miller and Davis, all of whom played key bench roles on last year's team. Small forward (Johnson) remains a weak spot for the Griz, as does shooting (Miller). Davis never really set the world on fire in Memphis but he was a) the primary back-up for Z-Bo, and b) the primary piece they received in the Rudy Gay trade. To let him walk to LA for a measly $1 million seems a strange decision at first glance.

"I'm pretty popular in Canada - the Grizzlies still play there, right?"


On the plus side, Carter should give them an offensive boost off the bench that Memphis have lacked since the days of O.J. Mayo. Vince enjoyed something of an Indian summer in Dallas, and at the very least will be expected to replace Miller's (sorely missed) outside shooting. Even though his days of playing above the rim are long over, Carter still has the nous to be able to create his own shot, a skill the Griz need almost as much as his outside shooting.

While the Grizzlies' roster does not scream 'excitement', with genuine two-way players at the head (Conley) and the heart (Gasol) of the team they will remain formidable for the forseeable future.

However with Z-Bo and 'Junkyard Dog' Allen turning 33, the stale Prince soon to be 34 and Vinsanity fast approaching the tender age of 38, time is running out for these Grrrrrrrrizlies. Will they ultimately regret ditching the likes of Gay and Kyle Lowry, or passing over Kevin Love to draft O.J. Mayo in 2008, or eschewing the chance to add James Harden or Steph Curry in favour of drafting Hasheem Thabeet in '09? Sadly, I think they will.

For the Grizzlies by the Mississippi, in 2015 -




Predictions:

Record: 47-35
Playoffs: Out in first round
Trades: Robert Pera to trade Dave Joerger to Brooklyn for Lionel Hollins
Trades II: Robert Pera fires John Hollinger, hires Bill Simmons

 

[Footypie32]

And now...



Please welcome your reigning NBA Champions, the San Antonio Spurs!

Howdy partner:

In: Kyle Anderson, Nemanja Dangubic, Bryce Cotton, JaMychal Green
Ettore Messina, Becky Hammon

Hasta luego:

Out: Nando De Colo, Othyus Jeffers, Malcolm Thomas


Coming off a fairytale season in which they got to avenge their narrow defeat the year before, the biggest question that remains is, are they still hungry?

In typical Spurs fashion they made minimal roster changes this off-season, so you would imagine that the team chemistry should be as strong as ever and that is exactly what the Spurs rely on.

The Spurs offence became a thing of beauty to basketball purists last season and I expect this season should see it hung in an equally beautiful frame. Their passing game is phenomenal, meaning they can always find a free shooter at any point of the game, making opposing defences panic as they scuttle to find their man. Adding a young forward like Kyle Anderson should only take it too another level. Just imagine:

Diaw
Duncan
Anderson
Ginobili
Parker



However, it's no good having a team of great passers if there is nobody that can take the shot. Luckily, the Spurs are also a team with plenty of hot hands. Diaw, Bellineli, Mills and Green all shot above .400 from beyond the arc last year. Ginobili and Leonard are also capable of getting hot during games and Tony Parker continues to add the 3pt shot to his game.

However, the biggest changes so far are on the coaching staff, bringing in Ettore Messina from Italy and also creating history with Becky Hammon as the first full-time female coach in NBA history. Messina should be a natural fit for the Spurs. He preaches movement on the offensive end, whether it be side to side or in and out, to make the defence work and create holes. He strongly believes that any organisation should put their principles before personnel, which again shows why he should fit in so well at the Spurs.

Hammon meanwhile, was a 6 time WNBA All-Star for the New York Liberty and San Antonio Stars. While she has only recently been 'officially' made a full time assistant with the Spurs, she has in fact been working with the team for most of last season while she was in rehab for a strained ACL. So you could say she has already done her internship and built a report with the players and coaches alike.

So now the Spurs can also boast the sexiest coaching staff in the NBA...



There's not a whole lot to write about the Spurs, because in reality we should just be expecting more of the same. The biggest issue will once more be the managing of the big three's minutes and the continual improvement of their second unit. Players like Kawhi Leonard, Patty Mills, Marco Bellineli, Jeff Ayres, Corey Joseph and Aaron Baynes should take invaluable experience away from last seasons Playoff series, and in all likelihood, could challenge many of the starting fives out East.

The Rise and Rise of Kawhi Leonard:
Since coming into the squad in a trade that involved the popular George Hill, Leonard has continued to develop at an electrifying pace. His ability to read the play on defence is as good as any of his more experienced team mates, allowing them to play more help D, while he picks up the oppositions best perimeter scorer. Popovich is starting to trust him more and more on the offensive end as well as he becomes a more accomplished shooter. Despite this, Pop claims that he did not call a single play for his young star during last seasons Playoffs, with most of his points coming through sheer hustle and being in the right spot at the right time.
The 2014/15 season though will be his biggest test. The spotlight will be on the reigning Finals MVP more than ever and we will get to see just how well Kawhi deals with the weight of expectation.

Depth Chart:

PG: Parker/Mills/Joseph
SG: Green/Ginobili/Bellineli
SF: Leonard/Anderson/Daye
PF: Duncan/Baynes/Ayres
C: Diaw/Splitter/Bonner


Season prediction:

It would be a brave man that thinks the Spurs will not once again win at least 50 games. Their ability to ride the high and lows of the regular season is unmatched. They will once again finish top of their division and will probably only be challenged by the Thunder for top place in the West. And baring injuries, should make their way back to the NBA Finals for a 3 straight time.

Prediction: 59-23

Thankyou for you time.

 

[stewie griffen]

Roster

Cameron Bairstow
Aaron Brooks
Jimmy Butler
Mike Dunleavy
Pau Gasol
Taj Gibson
Kirk Hinrich
Doug McDermott
Nikola Mirotic
Nazr Mohammed
Joakim Noah
Derrick Rose
Tony Snell

Incoming
McDermott, Bairstow, Gasol, Mirotic

Outgoing
Booze Cruise, Amundson, Brewer, James, Jimmer

Depth chart
Rose/Brooks/Kirk
Butler/Snell
Mike D/ Dougy
Pau/Taj/Mirotic/Bairstow
Noah/Nazr

Roster Description

Cameron Bairstow – Cam comes in as a second round draft pick (49) from New Mexico and adds an Aussie connection to the Bulls not seen since the days of Luc Longley (apart from scrubs like Schenscher Footypie32 and faux tough man Anstey peternorth) . He’s a tough and physical player with effort and hustle, exactly the type of guy that Thibs likes. Of course our frontcourt is pretty set, so exactly how much court time he gets remains to be seen, well that and we all know how much court time rookies generally see under Thibs. He had a solid summer league, and has some post presence, although he can be shaky from range, but he did improve his shot as his college career progressed.

Aaron Brooks - He’s bounced around a few teams over the years, showing a bit for Houston before being traded to Denver for Jordan Hamilton, averaging 9ppg and 3apg for the season. He put up some numbers when Lawson was out injured and will probably serve as the third point on the roster, altho tbh I would mind seeing more of him than Kirk He’s a reasonable option from deep, with a career 37% shooting from 3.

Taj Gibson – Another of the bright points of last season, Taj bumped up his scoring production in per game, per 36 mins and per 100 possessions, with a huge bump in his defenisive win shares. As I mentioned in the section on Pau it remains to be seen how we use him going forward, but he should be seeing around the same minute levels this season. I suspect that he will be on the floor with Pau and the second unit a fair bit to hide Pau’s defensive foibles, and then close the game out defensively, much like last season. From his shot charts he’s decent around the rim, and he has developed his baseline jumper. If he’s taking mid range shots, he’s money from above the foul line tho, something that we saw more of last season as well.

(taj is out of sync as i inserted his shot chart first)



Jimmy Butler – Buckets had a reasonable year last season, apart from his shooting woes. A FG% of 39.7 and 3pt% of 28.3% is shaky in anyone’s books, both numbers were almost 10% down on his previous season. All that said he was solid from the left corner. The absence of Rose and trading of Deng forced him to create more of his own offense and as a result his numbers plummeted. With Rose back and the other additions to the roster I’m sure we’ll see an improvement in his shooting this season as he benefits from a lot more open looks. A beast defensively as evidence by his spot on the All Defensive NBA 2nd Team, averaging 1.9 steals and contributing to Chicagos defense holding opposition wings to 41% shooting. He missed 15 games with a variety of ailments and was named to the USA select team which he skipped due to a groin injury.




Mike Dunleavy – An absolute godsend last season, where he went from reserve to starting 61 games after Rose went down. Look for him to slide back to the bench and be a key member of our second unit.







Pau Gasol – I’m still yet to decide how we can utilise Pau best. My personal preference would be to utilise him off the bench and play more at the 5 and insert Taj into the starting lineup but I feel that Thibs will probably start Pau for the first 6 or 7 minutes, use him heavily in the second and third quarters and finish off with Taj, much like Boozer last year. This may change depending on matchups, teams like NY and Cleveland will stretch the floor, so we may want Taj for defensive purposes.

It’s going to be interesting to see the evolution off the offense with Pau in the lineup and how Thibs can utilise him. The obvious result should be a lot of pick and pop with Rose to get some open mid range looks for Pau. He’s a fantastic passer for a big; something that will fit will with Jo in the lineup as well and should result in open looks for cutters and catch and shoot guys. The obvious concern in signing him is his age and injuries, given he missed 22 and 33 games the last 2 seasons, however even with his issues last season he averages 17 and 10 with LA last season.

Defensively…. I think Zach Lowe put it best… ‘Both were turnstiles on defense last season, but Gasol should perk up playing for a good team under a new coach, and he’s better than Boozer on that end simply by being three inches taller — and by not being Boozer.’

Kirk Hinrich – for the love of god no. Will play backup at the 1 and 2, he always gives effort, which I suppose is good enough for a back up.

Doug McDermott – I wasn’t a huge fan of the trade to bring him in. I stated at the time that I felt we paid overs to bring him in, although his play at summer league started to convert me. Hopefully he can bring that standard into the season and earn 10-12 minutes a game early in the season. Say what you will but the boy can score and has deep range. The obvious question marks will be defense and athleticism, hopefully these downsides can be hidden in a Thibs defensive system.



Nikola Mirotic – Now this is where it gets intriguing. He’s a great 3 point shooter in the Euroleague, shooting at 55% from the floor and 40% from deep in his time with Real Madrid. How will this translate to the NBA tho? He’s effective off the dribble going either side, has a nice step back jumper, is athletic, good touch in the paint and is above average defensively. Whilst there is a logjam in our frontcourt at the moment, Jo and Pau both have been banged up in the past and there is the possibility to play Mirotic at the 3 in spurts. Realistically tho, what can we expect to see, most likely something in the order of 18-20 mpg and scoring around 10 a game. Regardless, a guy who can shoot the ball that well can really stretch the floor and open up the paint for the likes of Rose and Butler, and should operate similar to Pau in the pick and pop. I’m really excited to see him in action and he should grow into his game as the season progresses.



Nazr Mohammed- He’s big, and he hasn’t retired. Yeah that’s about all we need to say.

Joakim Noah – Had a great year, making the All NBA first team and All Star team, being deservedly named DPOY and named to the NBA All Defensive First team. In the last couple of years he’s improved his shot from the 45 to a reasonable clip. Apart from that, there’s not really a lot to say that you don’t already know. Hopefully he can stay healthy and the frontcourt additions can reduce his workload back closer to 30mpg during the regular season.

Derrick Rose – Last year we (ok Bulls fans) were excited for the return of Derrick, needless to say things didn’t really finish up as planned. This time around however, Rose has been able to ease himself back into playing. Last season he looked rusty in all aspects of his game, whilst during the playing time he has seen with the USA team he looks a lot closer to his old self. Fingers crossed for a big year, although its likely we’ll have to sit him in patches to get him through a full season.

Tony Snell – Had a solid if unspectacular rookie year. I’m looking for him to improve on his shooting, much like Jimmy, with the other additions to the roster freeing up some open looks for him. He showed decent percentages from deep in the left corner and top of the key, actually his left side of the floor shooting as a whole is pretty reasonable. The plus minus numbers as a whole weren’t great last season, with the Bulls giving up 3 points per 100 possessions and scoring 5.8 points fewer worse off with him on the floor. Again this numbers should correct with a more complete roster, and I’m looking for him to take steps forward on the defensive aspects of his game as he becomes more comfortable with the NBA game.

Expectations-

I think a lot of us suffered from expecting too much from the squad last season, of course that was exacerbated by Rose going down. If we can stay healthy I don’t see why a 60 win season isn’t possible, particularly in a weakened East. I do expect Rose, Pau and Noah to miss games, whether through injuries or general soreness, and given that we have quite a few new guys on the roster things will take time to settle into a groove. Lebron leaving brings the Heat down to the middle of the pack, Cleveland will be in a similar position to us with adjusting guys to the roster, Washington have lost a key piece in Ariza , Atlanta will be solid as always and Indy’s chances died with PG going down. Toronto will show natural improvement, Detroit actually has an actual coach and Brooklyn will be in the playoff mix. Overall I think that barring any major injuries we should be a top 2 squad, but I’ll go conservative and suggest a 56-26 season for 2nd seed.

*I reserve the right to edit and add gifs, vids and vines for comic effect

 

[peternorth]

Their M.O.

More grind than a delicatessen run by Britney Spears dancers.


Put on your blue suede walking shoes (coz you're outta here)

F Ed Davis (Lakers)
F James Johnson (Raptors)
G Mike Miller (LeBron's Magical Mystery Tour)


Can't help falling in love (with these sexy new arrivals)

G Vince Carter (Mavs)
G Beno Udrih (UFA)
G Jordan Adams (pick #22)
F Jarnell Stokes (pick #35)


Returned to Sender (failed departures)

"Please welcome your new Principal Skinner... Principal Seymour Skinner!"

Depth Chart

PG Conley / Calathes / Udrih
SG Lee / Allen / Carter/ Adams
SF Prince / Pondexter / Carter
PF Randolph / Leuer / Stokes
C Gasol / Koufos


Where they've been:

2010 40-42 (DNQ)
2011 46-36 (lost to Thunder in 2nd round)
2012 41-25 (lost to Clippers in 1st round)
2013 56-26 (lost to Spurs in WCF)
2014 50-32 (lost to Thunder in 1st round)


Where they're going:





Where they're really going:

In all likelihood, back to the playoffs for a fifth consecutive season.


STRENGTHS

Defence - ranked in the top 10 for the past four seasons. They defend the paint, rebound well, force turnovers and avoid fouls - tick, tick, tick & tick.

Style - the grinding style of the Griz (ranked dead last in pace in both 2013 & 2014) has traditionally held up well in the heat of the playoffs.

Ball Control - because Memphis play inside out, under control and boast two big men with soft hands, they generally avoid careless turnovers

Rebounding - Griz are relentless on the glass, ranking #7 in defensive rebounding and #2 in offensive boards. They eat caroms for breakfast. Then porridge.

Continuity - the core (Gasol, Z-Bo, Conley & Allen) have been together since 2010. Memphis know who they are, and what they have to do.

Pounding the paint - more than half of all NBA teams probably don't have one legitimate post option. The Griz boast two post artists par excellence -

"Hey Z-Bo, remember Hasheem Thabeet?"



Weaknesses

Age - three key members of their team (Z-Bo, Allen and Vinsanity) are in their twilights, while their current starting small forward is no fresh prince.

Small forward - Prince's expiration date has been scribbled out and the package is starting to smell. Quincy Pondexter is next cab off the rank. Rudy who?

Big man depth - Koufos is a solid reserve, but the cupboard is pretty bare after that. Jon Leuer is a nice shooter who plays no D - the anti-Grizzly.

Offensive potency - if Z-Bo or Carter get injured or begin showing their age, there's a distinct lack of shot-making creativity on the roster beyond them.

Shooting - they improved to 19th in 3pt shooting % in 2013/14, but were still dead last in 3pt makes.. and have since lost Miller. No pressure Vince.

"What outside shooting?"


Final thoughts

Memphis did really well to salvage their 2013/14 season after Gasol's injury initially put them well behind the eight-ball in the ultra-competitive West.

After starting a pedestrian 10-15, the mid-season additions of Courtney Lee and James Johnson gave the Grizzlies a surprise second-wind, while Gasol's return coincided with a dramatic return to form, as Memphis closed the regular season by winning 40 of 57 games before giving the Thunder all they could handle in the playoffs.

Coach Dave Joerger was on the ultimate hiding to nothing following in Lionel Hollins's esteemed footsteps, destined to be kicked if the Grizzlies fell down (as he was and they did early) or knocked for having a successful roster handed to him on a platter. It says something for him that he was very much in demand by the time Memphis's season came to a close - in Minnesota to be precise.

Loopy owner Robert Pera made the strange decision to authorise his departure, meaning the perennial playoff team would have been looking for their third head coach in 12 months. He then made the even stranger decision to about-face and instead give Joerger an extension. I think we might be looking at the NBA's answer to George Steinbrenner here people.

So, what does 2014/15 hold in store for the men in Beale St blue? I think their depth has taken a bit of a hit, losing Johnson, Miller and Davis, all of whom played key bench roles on last year's team. Small forward (Johnson) remains a weak spot for the Griz, as does shooting (Miller). Davis never really set the world on fire in Memphis but he was a) the primary back-up for Z-Bo, and b) the primary piece they received in the Rudy Gay trade. To let him walk to LA for a measly $1 million seems a strange decision at first glance.

"I'm pretty popular in Canada - the Grizzlies still play there, right?"


On the plus side, Carter should give them an offensive boost off the bench that Memphis have lacked since the days of O.J. Mayo. Vince enjoyed something of an Indian summer in Dallas, and at the very least will be expected to replace Miller's (sorely missed) outside shooting. Even though his days of playing above the rim are long over, Carter still has the nous to be able to create his own shot, a skill the Griz need almost as much as his outside shooting.

While the Grizzlies' roster does not scream 'excitement', with genuine two-way players at the head (Conley) and the heart (Gasol) of the team they will remain formidable for the forseeable future.

However with Z-Bo and 'Junkyard Dog' Allen turning 33, the stale Prince soon to be 34 and Vinsanity fast approaching the tender age of 38, time is running out for these Grrrrrrrrizlies. Will they ultimately regret ditching the likes of Gay and Kyle Lowry, or passing over Kevin Love to draft O.J. Mayo in 2008, or eschewing the chance to add James Harden or Steph Curry in favour of drafting Hasheem Thabeet in '09? Sadly, I think they will.

For the Grizzlies by the Mississippi, in 2015 -




Predictions:

Record: 47-35
Playoffs: Out in first round
Trades: Robert Pera to trade Dave Joerger to Brooklyn for Lionel Hollins
Trades II: Robert Pera fires John Hollinger, hires Bill Simmons

before your simpsons reference i was no s**t reading the first two paragraphs in a sports announcer/voice over voice from any simpsons episode.

 

[peternorth]

Cameron Bairstow – Cam comes in as a second round draft pick (49) from New Mexico and adds an Aussie connection to the Bulls not seen since the days of Luc Longley.

ahem

 

[stewie griffen]

How could I forget Anstey.... lol

 

[peternorth]

How could I forget Anstey.... lol

quite an easy thing to do!

 

[Footypie32]

Ahem...

 

[PP34]

Barring Rose being injured again (please no) there's no reason why the Bulls can't make the finals. Defensively superior to the Cavs I'm going to guess, they'll have some great ball movement with Noah, Gasol and Rose on the court together, and they're very deep. While everyone looks at the 2008 Celtics and the 2011 Heat as proof that a team like the 2014 Cavs can gel quickly, we all forget that there wasn't anyone quite as good as this Bulls team there to challenge them in my opinion.

Putting my Cleveland hatred aside, they'll probably win a title but this won't be the year I don't think.

Gotta feel for the Timberwolves. They've indeed gone backwards. Both the Wolves and the Knicks have been huge disappointments in the past few years, and have basically gone back to where they were originally. The Knicks obviously have Carmelo, but is that really an improvement?

 

[peternorth]

Ahem...

View attachment 75962

haha!! piatkowski!!!

 

[stewie griffen]

Barring Rose being injured again (please no) there's no reason why the Bulls can't make the finals. Defensively superior to the Cavs I'm going to guess, they'll have some great ball movement with Noah, Gasol and Rose on the court together, and they'rtarte very deep. While everyone looks at the 2008 Celtics and the 2011 Heat as proof that a team like the 2014 Cavs can gel quickly, we all forget that there wasn't anyone quite as good as this Bulls team there to challenge them in my opinion.

Putting my Cleveland hatred aside, they'll probably win a title but this won't be the year I don't think.

Gotta feel for the Timberwolves. They've indeed gone backwards. Both the Wolves and the Knicks have been huge disappointments in the past few years, and have basically gone back to where they were originally. The Knicks obviously have Carmelo, but is that really an improvement?

Right now the Cavs and Bulls are the two faves for the conference finals, and deservedly so. We saw how Miami struggled early when they first put together their Big 3, and given the new additions to both our and Clevelands rosters I'd expect slowish starts from both.

We should matchup a lot better with Washington this time around, Nene and Gortat were just too much to handle and DJ couldnt contain Wall. Having Rose and Pau for that matchup is huge. Mirotic and Pau will help match up the Hawks with their shooting prowess.

Rose being back just changes everything

 

[PP34]

Washington are interesting but I seriously doubt Pierce will have enough left to make them that much better this season. Admittedly I didn't watch much of Brooklyn at all last season, but I only saw him getting worse.

Huge years needed from Wall and BEal.