What is True? Rap Fans Search For Answers

There is a lot of issues with the Toronto Raptors that are off the court. The most important of those is the true status of Chris Bosh. It was expected and reported that Bosh was day to day and would likely miss about a week. Yesterday with that week ending today rumors started to surface that Bosh may be out longer than first thought. A west coast trip of doom on the horizon this is horrible news. The Raptors with Bosh would have been highly challenged to walk away with victories. Four of the 5 west coast foes have winning records and are in the greatest playoff race the NBA has seen in a very long time. Where wins and loses mean huge swings in the standings. Every game is vital in the race in the west. Raptors fans should have legit fear if they are without Chris for this trip. It could start a Raptor free fall. But unlike the west the eastern conference allows you some room to fail. But it is not like the Raps can afford to keep trying to win without Bosh for a long period of time and expect it not to have some impact. Truth is it already has with a lose to Orlando and tonight's game vs Washington is also important as they have marched on with no Arenas and Butler. Jamison and the rest have marched forward and done the best they can just like in last year's playoffs but with better results. So if Bosh is not on the West Coast trip the pressure down the stretch will be a little more intense. All this being said if Orlando is able to hold off Cleveland and Washington passes Toronto it is good news for Raptors. That would mean they get the team they want in the Orlando Magic in round one. No home court advantage but Raps have shown signs this season of being able to get it done on the road. Not lately but they have at times. So when will Bosh return is question # 1 on Raptor fans minds.

The second question is much more confusing than a simple injury. T.J Ford had a meeting with Sam Mitchell and some members of team management. The contents of that meeting are unknown and will likely stay that way.  What has been said is T.J is dealing with some personal issues. What are they is anyones guess but I will not join the parade of speculators. It has been a rough emotional year for T.J Ford and no doubt the people close to him. Those who claim this was a simple basketball matter and it was directly related to the meltdown of T.J firing shot after shot vs Orlando. That would make common sense but I think this is a different issue from that. I will say that ANY athletes personal business is none of my business and I would suggest none of yours. If there is reason to share this information with the public because it will effect T.J and his ability to play for the Toronto Raptors than fine. Same as if I had something in my life that effected me writing this blog than I would share it with you. But if I have an issue that is separate from that than unless I choose to share it you do not have the right to know. This is not the magazines at the supermarket here this is the NBA. Ford's personal life is his own and I respect that and think all should as relates to all players.

The last thing that fans have been talking about is Roko Ukic. He was drafted in the second round by Rob Babcock at #41 if you forgot. He also played against the Raptors this fall in the EuroLive event. I can only assume the fans talking about Ukic did not watch that game because if they did and still think he is anything more than a project 3rd string point guard then I really don't have any answer. He could be a decent maybe even good point guard some day in the NBA. But that day is not coming in the next year and a half. So trading T.J Ford and inserting Roko Ukic would be a very stupid move and Bryan Colangelo is not know for making many of them. You doubt my words and say he is just supporting T.J Ford. I take you back to Jose Calderon in his first NBA Season. He was far from the would be all star you see today. Raptors were so unsure of what he was and where he was at that they traded for T.J Ford. I knew of Jose Calderon before he got here. I had an Internet friend in Spain who follows European basketball. He had said that Jose would be this good but I thought yeah sure the guy is from Spain he s just sticking up for his country. But turns out his evaluation was fairly accurate. I had also asked about Ukic. He said on him that he was a project and a far less talent than Calderon. In my few chances to see Ukic I am on board with his evaluation. What I am certain of though is that Ukic is not ready for minutes in a back up role in the NBA. Sorry to burst anyones bubble out there.

So Raps vs Wiz. Both are banged up and both are jockeying to find the slot that says they get to play the Magic. Lebron James in a 7 game series is not something you want. It is something you try to survive.

UPDATE: I am always looking for ways to make this blog better and here is the LATEST IN THAT. We now will have PODCASTS. you can access them through the following site:

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Hopefully people enjoy this latest edition to the Blog. My background is in Radio and T.V and sometimes and much more at home talking Raptors as opposed to typing Raptors so check it out. Please give me feedback on the content and any problems you have in access to the PODCAST CONTENT.

Questions About More Than Bosh

So Sam Mitchell can you tell me where the defense was last night? Did it go with Bosh to get an MRI? Even before Bosh left the game last night with Knee Soreness. That is the official report too, on a side note I have a stiff shoulder and am without my Cable T.V service. Not that anyone much cares bout my status as I write this blog. Short of 10 broken fingers I think it is safe to say I never have to miss a game or wait there was that whole computer break down thing. But anyway back to the matters at hand. Bosh in his post game press scrum seemed convinced that this was a minor thing and he said it was nothing in comparison to the knee injury that he suffered in training camp in Europe. The concern short term will be his status vs. Orlando on Tuesday, That game is as close as you get to a playoff game in the regular season. The season tie breaker between the Magic and Raptors in the last meeting between the two in the regular season. Bosh would say that he planned on going on the trip which is a good sign but not a guarantee he will play.

Sam Mitchell will say that Bosh or no Bosh the way his team played defense it would not have mattered. Constant beating of players on the dribble and a dependence on help. Jack Armstrong always says that HELP is the weakest word in the defensive vocabulary and he is right. There is no excuse for not being able to guard the Pacers when they are a team of 9 guys missing it's top 3 guys. It is unacceptable. This kind of mental break down games are the major reason the Raptors have not been able to put together any kind of major winning streak. The seem to get 3 or 4 only to drop a game they have no business losing. It has lead to frustration in the fan base and with good reason.

Another thing I have noticed. Andrea Bargnani seems to just seem more in control when Bosh is not going to be in a game. This happened on opening night when Bosh played only minor minutes. For whatever reason Bargnani picks it up when Bosh is out of the picture. Perhaps it is the fact he shifts to the 4 spot. Which ultimately is his natural spot on the floor. It just has happened to many times not to be noticed. If the Raptors ever traded him and he went to a team and played consistently @ the 4 spot I have a feeling you would get a much different and better Bargnani.

The other bright spot if you can have any was the play of Parker. I have always thought that this guy is capable of so much more on the offensive end of the floor and last night was one of those nights where he showed it. Raps will need a lot more of that should Bosh be out any lengthy period of time.

The blessing of things is the soft schedule minus the Orlando game. If Bosh plays against the Bobcats than this was a very minor thing. But I would bet some serious coin that the earliest we see him is Tuesday in Orlando even if he was health enough to go on Sunday. Besides that will leave more minutes for the Raptors new Euro Gangster to extract revenge on the Bobcats.

Brezec the former Bobcat real had much to say about current head coach in Charlotte Sam Vincent and apparently many agree that Vincent is not getting the job done in Charlotte. A bit harsh it may be though as the Bobcats have had no Adam Morrison or Sean May the entire season. Both were expected to be major parts to getting the bobcats on track for the playoffs. A place that the NEW Charlotte franchise has never been.

I continue to be amazed with the Western Conference. Denver Nuggets are outside the Playoffs with better record than the Raptors. Not only that they sit just six and a half out of First Place. It is truly going to be a heck of a finish and playoffs in the Western Conference. Coming into the season there were rumblings the Eastern Conference was getting better. Well you will not here that thought of today at all. But that doesn't mean the East could not win NBA Title. I think a Boston Detroit or even a Cleveland or Toronto might have a shot. Because the road through the East will be far less bumpy to get through than the one in the West and it could play to the advantage of the Eastern Conference Champion whoever that turns out to be.

Today is a key day in NBA as this is the last day teams can sign players and have them eligible for the playoffs. So expect Sam Cassell to be reunited with Kevin Garnett today. also we will fin out what or where Brent Barry will go which is rumored to be right back to the Spurs. He was traded as part of the Kurt Thomas deal and than released by Seattle. Anyone else sick of this nonsense like me. I remember when I guy was traded he actually put on the other team's jersey and played for that team. Salary Cap Era has made simple truths like that come into question. It ultimately just looks bad on the league. Needs to change.

If there is any change in the news on Bosh I will post some kind of update. Till than may you all have less KNEE SORENESS and a good weekend. Try to forget about last night's game it will only prevent you from that good weekend.

Sam Mitchell Is Still Concerned

The Toronto Raptors have won 3 in a row and 5 of the last 6 games. They currently sit 4th in the Eastern Conference and would match up with Lebron James and The Cleveland Cavs in round one. Not exactly an ideal match-up if you consider what James did in last seasons playoffs. But of greater concern in the short term is how the Raptors have started the last few contests. Giving teams big leads in the first quarter is a recipe for disaster. You can get away with it vs. teams that are not good but come playoff time that will not be good enough and the comebacks that the Raps have been able to manufacturer will not be able to happen.

Jose Calderon has taken a step back from his amazing play and that could be part of the reason why the slow starts. However even T.J Ford has come out in the media and said he supports the fact Jose is the starter and would be o.k with it for the rest of the season. But the bigger question is will Sam Mitchell be? Sam Mitchell has a longer history with T.J Ford and if Ford is 100% and this trend continues it would not be shocking as some Raptor fans would make it if T.J was inserted back into the starting line-up. For most teams this kind of uncertainty at the most key position on the floor would be a major issue. But not the Raptors they seem to make these transitions look easy. That comes from the collective team first attitude that this team has.

Chris Bosh is where that starts. It is easy to see that Bosh might also be bias to Ford as the starter. He after all is good friends with Ford and that relationship has grown since Ford arrived from the Bucks. But you can see the effort that he has made to develop a similar relationship with Jose Calderon. Ultimately Bosh wants to win and he wants the best player on the floor to help him do that personal feelings aside.

Ultimately who starts may not matter anyway. T.J Ford was the starter in last year's playoffs but that did not guarantee that he would finish the game on the floor. I can't imagine that Jose is guaranteed anything more than that. Sam Mitchell is very old school in a lot of what he does and he believes in rewarding the people that are producing. He made Jamario Moon a Starter but has no problem giving him the hook should he not live up to that role. Basically the best 5 players in a given game will be on the floor when the game is on the line. The only person that can have any guarantee that he will be on the floor down the stretch in at the key moments is Chris Bosh. He has earned that right.

One thing that is clear the Raps have the best point guard tandem in the NBA. There numbers combined on are truly jaw dropping. What many Raptor fans see as a problem is actually this teams greatest strength. The would be contenders in the east other than Detroit all have questions at the point guard position. Rajon Rondo, Jameer Nelson and Delonte West all fall far short of Ford and Calderon. Even Chancey Billups on his own can not match the production of the 2 combined.

Having said all of this the Raptors must find a rotation of these two that the team is going to be able to get better starts or tough times lie ahead. But they still have about a month and a half to get it all figured out. This stretch of lower ranking opposition gives the team a chance to make mistakes and recover from it. The Playoffs do not allow that nor will quality teams in the regular season. With a big Re-Match with Orlando on the horizon the Raps need to work out the bugs. Losing that game in Orlando puts a serious dent in any hope the Raptors have of making the seed they held in last years playoffs. Which at this point would draw them the Washington Wizards.

Gilbert Areanas has had a lot to say about the Raptors for a guy that has hardly hit the floor this year and it would be fitting if they ended up sending "AGENT 0" packing. You can bet the Arenas Blog would have much more Raptors Smack Talk. He has run down Calderon and Moon and seems to have some issue with the Raptors. Maybe it's because his Wizards have not exactly delivered the goods vs. Toronto with him in the line-up. It would not be as intense as the match-up with Vince last year. But I think for the players it might mean a bit more as they do not have the hate for Vince as much as fans do. However you have to think they have noticed Arenas disrespecting them as individuals and as a team.

But we are putting carts before horses. It will be very tough for Toronto to grasp hold of the 3rd seed. Cleveland despite my thinking that they have made a long term mistake the short term looks good. Although many Cleveland fans last night got a huge scare with Lebron coming up lame with a bad ankle last night. But fear not Cavs fans he did return and was dunking. Proving Lebron even has Monster ankles on the Monster body. Boston has signed P.J Brown and still are hoping to add Sam Cassell. But there maybe a problem as something has went wrong in the buyout negotiations with the Clippers and they may stick it to Sam by cutting him on March 2nd which would make him not able to play for any team in the playoffs including Celtics. Brent Barry is also out there to help some playoff team and he may end up in Dallas with J Kidd and Dirk.

These Buyouts and what not make my stomach turn. I think of one thing, Alonzo Mourning bought out by Raptors and becomes Champion in Miami. It just isn't right. Than there was Gary Payton traded to Celtics only to return a month later. Guys not even in the league getting included in trades it is all to bizarre. David Stern needs to take a serious look at this before the NBA has a serious credibility issue. I mean this is starting to look like the WWE to a degree. What I mean is wrestling has supposed brands and had drafts moving people around only to go back on it a few weeks later and people coming out of retirement for a day, a week or a month. NBA is not Sports Entertainment it is a Sport. They need to start closing these loop holes fast in my opinion.

I close with some random stuff. First off if you listen to hoops on the Fan 590 I am the caller that is James in Hamilton 98% of the time. I love the show and Eric Paul and Jack do an awesome job. If the Blog is just not enough for you than you can get more Raptor Info, Debate and Fun through my personal Facebook Raptor Group

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CHECK OUT MY NEW THREADS

The most frustrating thing about the blog going on the disabled list was the fact that almost daily there were huge deals being talked about and more importantly getting done. In years past it was all talk but this year teams put the talk into action. Some teams made BIG gambles. The West has been a battle all year in the standings that battle has moved to the general mangers offices. Suns made first major move of the post Bryan Colangelo era. Steve Kerr was know as a deadly shooter as a player he went deep on this trade. The window was closing on the Suns and adding an aging Shaq will only make that fact more so. They also had to feel the need to match the Lakers move to get Gasol which has to be one of the biggest steals in history of trades. Raptor fans know bad trades but the one for Gasol is even worse than the one that sent Vince to Jersey. He may be the biggest reason Jason Kidd is a Maverick again. Mark Cuban was feeling the heat like the suns. This move also is a reaction to the Gasol deal. But the irony of why the Mavs let Steve Nash become a Sun is screaming at me. The reason for letting Nash go was he was too old. That he would not be worth his salary by the end of the deal. Well 2 M.V.P trophies later seems the Mavs made an error. So now they take an older Kidd and a guy that is not as good a shooter as Nash. Basically ask yourself would you trade Steve Nash for Jason Kidd straight up? I would pass and thus I think the mavs have made a decision they will regret. The others in Texas also made moves Houston actually gave conference rivals the hornets some depth with Bonzi Wells and Mike James. The Ex-Raptor James seems to always be getting traded. I feel for the guy you can say what you will about his time with the Raptors but he was a good character to have around. Any guy that sings at his post season press conference I love. R Kelly would love to have Mike James Ball skills and James is not heading to American Idol but he is a fun loving guy. But back to business the Hornets gave up Bobby Jackson who will now back up another Ex-Raptor in Rafer Alston in Houston. Jackson played under Rick Adlman in Sacramento and should be a good fit in Houston. Than quietly San Antonio added yet another nice player. Kurt Thomas is a tough dude that rebound and has a decent post game. Add that to adding yet another former Raptor in Damon Stoudaimre. If Tony Parker comes back at close to 100% than Spurs have a shoot at repeating. But the road is long and hard now that almost every playoff team in the West has made a move since opening day to make themselves better. Utah is happy with Kyle Korver a move that went down awhile ago. But he has been good fit in Utah.

The common belief is that the Lakers are the Favorites in the West. Hard to argue when you consider we haven't even seen how Andrew Bynum will add to this. The one thing that may derail the Lakers is a pinky finger. Kobe and his finger have to be a concern cause no Kobe and the Lakers are done. He has committed to toughing it out and playing through the pain but you have to be concerned. The Suns have to worry as well with Shaq. He has a long history of injuries and the Suns are rolling the dice. All things being equal Suns,Lakers and Spurs are on a higher level than the rest of the west. But make no mistake each team has health concerns and that gives hope to the Utah's the New Orlean's and Golden States of the world. Warriors have Chris Webber in toe and will look to keep him healthy for a playoff push. This isn't a cop out but honestly the west is WIDE OPEN.

East is little more clear cut. Boston made no moves and are rolling the dice with Rajon Rondo. If he goes down Eddie House is a huge downgrade. But Sam Cassell still may get bought out in L.A with the Clippers. The desire of Celtics to land Cassell is the biggest reason they fell out of Damon Stoudmire Sweepstakes. Detroit made the minor deal with the Raps but they basically have stood firm with the veteran core that has made them a long standing power in the weak Eastern Conference. Cleveland is the gambler in the East and there seems no in between on what people think of what the Cavs did. Count me in on the negative side. I admit my mistakes like what I was saying about the Shaq trade but this I am certain of the Cavs will regret this deal. Ben Wallace was a bust in Chicago and his big contract is going to cause the Cavs to sink like an anchor. Short term it could help Cavs get to a Conference Final at best. But the long term result is they STILL need a point guard. Delonte West is not the answer and the answer to the question at the point will coast them ALOT. You wait and see the number that Jose Caldron Gets. That will set the point guard market this off season and that is not good news for Cavs. The trickle down effect will make already high demand position even more expensive. I don't care what anyone says Lebron may have agreed about this trade but he still wanted Jason Kidd not Ben Wallace and the rest. If this ultimately coasts the Cavs over the next 2 years it may cost them James himself. That happens and Danny Ferry can dust off his resume. Hey in fact if he hasn't filled out his retirement papers maybe he can get a contract like Kieth Van Horn. Nice work if you can get it.

If there was any huge surprise in the East to me it might be the fact that a guy like Mike Bibby goes to Atlanta and not Orlando. It was made evident by the Toronto Raptors how badly the Magic need a point guard. Superman may not need help but Dwight Howard mild mannered basketball player does need a good point guard. The fact the Raptors made a minor move was expected. Three seven footers is nice to have even if they don't play much like dominant big men. Still you can't teach speed and you also can't teach height. They have height. Raptors next season will have a very interesting roster with many expiring deals and you may see the BIG MOVE by Bryan Colangelo next year. This year the Raptors will just look to find a good match up in round 1 of the playoffs. Orlando would be option A at this point.

But Raptor's need to learn from the letdown of Friday. If they have and run off a big win streak I can live with the loss to the Knicks. Raptor Rewind will recap it all good bad or ugly and in a game with Knicks involved you can expect it all. Vince Carter may have been a good hamstring away from having been playing for the Knicks in this game. However the Knicks did nothing and that may speak to the future of Isiah Thomas who looks to be a dead duck. But he has looked that way for like 2 years. Thomas is on heck of a spin doctor. If does get canned I suggest he hit the campaign trail for U.S Elections as a spin doctor for a candidate he would be a great asset to any politician in fact maybe more than to any basketball game.

But I just want to say I am so happy to be back and hopefully you all are happy to have me back as well. Please share your comments and thoughts on the blog. As well if you choose to support us through adsense I thank you. Now you will have the Blog back everyday towards the drive to the playoffs.

My Bad!!! It Did Happen

So ESPN was right I Was Wrong. I am sorry Dino Nation Blog readers. I messed up. But when you here something like this you think it just can't be true. Like the blog yesterday suggested how many rumors to we here daily weekly that turn out to be complete B.S. But I am a big enough man to say when I made a mistake and on this trade happening I did. There is not much anyone is talking about beyond this move. Raptor chats and forums were lit up with talk of this deal. That should tell you all you need to know when a team that has zip to do with a trade is having it's fans talking about it. There is a impact on the Raptors a little bit though but will touch on that later. First some thought as to why on earth this happened.

Well there are lots of theories to say why. Some provided by the Suns and Heat and others that people have used some good old fashion common sense. The Suns think that adding Shaq will help them in the half court offense. Important why? I mean the Suns could run up and down the floor 3 or 4 times faster the Shaq on a good day. But when the playoffs come the run and gun Suns have been taken down by solid defense and teams forcing them to grind out their offense in the half court. Shaq is a help in that way as you really a gambling if you try guarding him one on one. It is not the gamble it once was but still a risk.  One thing Shaq does have that is under rated but fits right in with sun is great passing ability. The Combo of the Top 2 vote getters for the MVP just 3 years ago is interesting. Oh and by the way the Suns still have Amare Stoudamire who now becomes a nightmare match-up at the power forward. On paper at least it looks impressive. Suns really are rolling the dice though as O'Neal is coming of an injury and Steve Nash has constant back issues. Two years from now Sun fans might regret this trade. Old Superstars that are sucking all your cap space. But win a title before than and they will live with a bad season. Not to mention should this be the end for Shaq at the end of this contract. 20 million in cap space can build you quite the rebuilding project.

So Miami does this basically to unload the large contract of what they see as a declining Shaq. The get a very interesting player back and a young point guard in Banks. But The Matrix in Miami should be interesting indeed. The last 3 years you would think Marion would be happy but not so much. Bitter about not having the spotlight shine on him he even demanded a trade this past off season. Well careful what you wish for cause you just might get it and he has. The time for talking is now over. The time for putting up is now.

Pat Riley by comparing the new combo of Wade and Marion to Pippen and Jordan will certainly add to my prior statement. But those guys have 6 rings. I don't see this duo coming any where close to that. Good news on this is if I'm wrong on this one it will take like 6 to 8 years to find out. I don't know about you but my memory is fuzzy on what happened that long ago. But Riley better be at least in the neighborhood of being right. The scene the other night in Miami when the Raptor blew out the Heat was an ugly one. Empty stands and a team that looked defeated and done. This no doubt was motivation for Miami to make this deal happen as fast as it did.

I mentioned at the start of this a minor Raptor sub-plot to this. Or at least impact on them. They are done with the Suns but still have 3 more meetings with the Heat. One on the second last night of the season. So should the Heat get a spark out of this the Raptors will need to pour water on it. Raps are getting ready to take on the Clippers. The way things have been lately expect the Clipper to make a trade. You want to know when an NBA Trade is going down? Check the Raptor Schedule. The Lakers play Raps and same day have traded for Gasol. Heat lose bad to Raptors and Trade O'Neal. Sam Cassell reunited with K.G in Boston? If they are following the script maybe. But the Raptors have been around some of biggest news lately in the NBA. Not that they were involved accept in the race to get Mighty Mouse. But still they have been traveling through and around some huge NBA News.

Will Bryan Colanglo make some of his own soon? Time will tell. You have to wonder what he thought as all this was going down. He still has to at least glance at his former team every now and than. Suns fans may be doing a take off of a South Park Song. Asking WHAT WOULD BRYAN COLANGELO DO?

So This Is A Basketball Expert?

ESPN is just a huge monster of sports broadcasting in the United States. They are the be all and end all of sports T.V. Ask the NHL how bad it is to not be part of the ESPN radar. Poker is getting bigger ratings. But I am here to say that bigger doesn't mean better. I mean every story,post you read usual can get traced back to a rumor started by ESPN. The latest story they are reporting is that the Suns are looking to deal to get Shaq from Miami. Could this be true? I suppose it might be. But is it likely going to happen? I would say no chance. But hey I am not a basketball EXPERT. I am however a person that studied the media and journalism and know the difference between fact and rumor. ESPN for the pursuit of what media is all about RATINGS is always throwing out story after story of rumors. They once in awhile get it right. I mean every guy can it a shot if they get enough attempts. Even Shaq himself hits the odd free throw. That doesn't make him a good shooter from the line though. Same thing goes for ESPN. In fact sports networks love stats so much I'd love to see the stats on them.

What do I mean. How many trades have they broadcast that never happen. How many evaluations of draft picks do they completely blow. When is the last time you heard them say hey sorry fans we were wrong. They just move on and pay no attention and are on to the next big dirty little secret they can dig up. Basically I think they have become the Tabloid King of Sports Journalism. I mean honestly what is the difference these days. They report trade rumors like I hear accounts of the sanity of Brittney Spears. I honestly don't care. Unless you have real solid evidence that you are will to produce at some point than SHUT UP. I mean it gets old. I am tired of year after year being promised all these things and than getting nothing in return. If they were a girl I was dating they long would have been shown the door. I say this sitting in Canada too. I can only imagine how sick and tired are friends to the south must be. They have it shoved down there throat daily. 

Unfortunately something about doing a story well as opposed to being the first to report it has been lost in today's modern world. Guys like Stephen A Smith who you see up top were evaluating Andrea Bargnani having seen a Highlight Reel if anything at all. I recall he said as much on the broadcast of the draft. However because Bryan Colangelo picked him and not Rob Babcock the experts were o.k with it. I can understand that as a Raptor Fan but still it isn't right. The silly stuff needs to stop. I mean enough already. Call me when you actually have something worthwhile to say based on research and facts.

Than we have the ESPN TRADE MACHINE. Yes you or I anyone that can manage to run a computer and log on the Internet can play pretend NBA GM. Wasn't bad enough you at ESPN starting a rumor a day now ESPN is out sourcing the work to the generally population of the world. Thanks a lot. Now I have to waste my time with morons that trade a bunch of lousy players and say they have the deal that will make Kobe Bryant a Raptor. By the way ESPN sure missed out on that whole Kobe situation huh? Now seems he is happy and they made the trade to get Pau Gasol. Where were the experts on that one? I mean they are so smart shouldn't they have seen that coming? Guess Not. Oh Well Jason Kidd will get moved to Dallas and make you look smart. You hope any way. The job of any good journalist is to report the news not create the news. So is ESPN in the Sports Reporting Business or the creating Sports News Business. I am not saying this is just a ESPN thing. Up here in Canada turn on any National Network at the NHL Trade Deadline you will get the same thing. But it is more entertaining at least you get to watch the 3 networks race around like mice trying to get through a maze. It is great entertainment and having worked behind the scenes at one of those networks on that day you only see 1/10 of the crazy trust me.

Next time someone is tagged with the term expert on sports T.V ask yourself this simple question. If they are such an EXPERT why are they working on T.V. They also have another term INSIDER which is just as silly. I mean seriously you think GM's and Agents do not use these insiders and rumor spreaders to the full advantage. These are not stupid people for the most part. 

Think about your own life. You have a bunch of people in your life and you have some you totally trust and others you know that 5 seconds after you told them they have told the next 5 people they see. I am not bragging here but I was somewhat popular back in my school days. I knew that people would say things based on what I said to them. I learned fast who those people were. I learned even faster how to turn that to my advantage. 

People in Sports are no different. They know the Media is the kid that likes to tell everyone. So they use them to their advantage. Example from not that long ago. We heard many rumors the Damon Stoudamire was going to Boston. A few more that he was coming back to Toronto. Few other teams got mentioned too. But in the end he goes where? To the Spurs the defending World Champions not a bad choice. But you think all the talk that was created was an accident? No way this made the market for Damon so high it was unrealistic. I mean I love Damon a lot but seriously he didn't wake up the next day after Memphis cut him loose and turn into Chris Paul. But Rumor Mill made him more in demand. The people that LOVE the ESPN way of journalism are Agents. ESPN really should be looking for a cut on that agents percentage.

So I encourage you if you ever hear me refer to myself as an expert right in a comment and quote this next line. There are NO SUCH THING AS EXPERTS OR INSIDERS. It is a myth that is created to create a false sense of security in fans to make you believe this person knows of what they speak. I mean this is not to say these people are complete idiots. I am not saying you or I can go to Bristol Connecticut and bang on the door and say hey I am an Insider too. These people do work hard and are put under a lot of stress by the people you never see on T.V. The producers and the people higher than them. They all NEED RATINGS and after a few years the things they learned back in school are not as important as how many people are clicking on the T.V sets. Why is that? 

We just had a Super Bowl that I believe had second Highest Rating in the History of T.V. To get an Ad on that game cost you 2.6 million for 30 seconds. That is a shorter amount of time than it will take you to read this blog. They can charge that high amount of money because of RATINGS. That is why they are so important to T.V and Radio.

Another Thing I saw in a thing that is related to this was someone who posted cursing at Raptors T.V. The reason was they were mad they had picked up quality Raptor Match Ups like games vs the Lakers and the much hated Nets. Well in case you haven't noticed T.V is changing. The NFL Network did same thing this year. They need people to subscribe to the station what better way to do that than high quality match-ups. If you have been paying attention you know what comes next. That's right Advertising. More Subscribers more Advertisers and a higher cost for those ads. Is it fair to fans to have to shell out a few more bucks? Not really but in the grand scheme of things will they if forced too? Yup they will. It is like the story of that awful Hockey Team that shares the ACC. A Leaf Fan has finally wised up and said NO MORE. That's o.k MLSE will take the guy on the waiting lists money for it is worth the same as the guy who left.

Fans never stand a chance because they are not organized and have no plan or collective agenda. There is no unity among fans. Want proof. Try this post who is better Jose Or T.J? You will get all the proof in the world.

This has been a rather lengthy blog but I hope you got something out of it. Which is more than you get from about 80% of what the ESPN's and other Tabloid type Sports Media are throwing at you. I love the Media I really do but they can do much better than what they do now. Fans need to demand it though and truth is to many fans buy what they are selling. I am not one of them. But that reminds me trade deadline we will have constant updates on the trades that go down. Not Rumors of Trades but that actual article like Stromile Swift who is Now a Net. That will make J Kidd Stay. Umm maybe not.

Hope you enjoyed at the very least I feel better getting out my frustration. Feel free to do the same by adding your comments any time even if your frustration is with ME. But if your not and like this blog I like to hear that too. Tell a friend as well cause blogs need hits like shows need ratings.

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Max $Money$ ???

The last time Gilbert Arenas was a free agent he apparently flipped a coin 10 times and Washington won 3 times so he signed there. That makes no sense at all. But than it is rare anything he every will do does. But the one thing he has learned to do is be different in a see of NBA stars there is only one man that can be Agent 0. Last season his injury and that of team mate Caron Butler doomed the team to a first round loss to the Cavs. However things would still be o.k for Arenas he would get the cover of EA Sports NBA LIVE for 08 and hopeful rehab and be ready to fight again this season. A important season as he will be going on the market after this year.

However things would not exactly go as planned. Many have whispered that Arenas was not exactly the most ideal rehab patient. He tends do his own thing and without playing in the Pre-season many wondered how ready he actually was? The answer would end up not ready enough and he would required more work be done on his bad knee. Another season down the tubes for him and the Wizards. But not so fast the Wizards have managed just fine without him. Caron Butler who also missed the playoffs is having a career year. He along with Jamison have lead Washington to being in the mix as far as playoffs go in the East. They also as a group are much improved on defense. Many will say that a Wizards team without Arenas is a better defensive team. He is a lazy defender and looks to just outscore his man rather than play defense on him.

So if you are the Washington Wizards what do you do this off season? Arenas is determined to get max money. The zero number he wore was to represent the number of minutes he was told he would get at Arizona. Now is more about the zero's he wants in his pay check. Not to mention Arenas and his brash attitude making guarantees via his blog and clashing with coach Eddie Jordan at times. They do get along but they don't always seem to be on the same page. In the end the Wizards may be best off to let him walk. Some one will give Arenas his max money. He aside from being a great basketball player is a great personality to have associated with your team. He well sell you a lot of jerseys with that 0 on the back. He will score a lot of points too. But the question of his injured knee and if his best days may be now in his rear view mirror are really out there for debate.

This time it may be the Wizards wanting to flip that coin and figure out what they should do. They really should decide before he returns because once he does they may get distracted by his scoring and ability. But looking at the team without him and based on the demand of max money I would not bring him back. New Jersey Nets felt pressured into keeping Vince Carter and look at how that is working out year one. Caron Butler has become a solid NBA ALL STAR. He may not make the game the proves it but this guy is having an All Star type season. he can be the leader.

There is a song "The Gambler" by Kenny Rogers that says you got to no when to hold'em No when to fold"em and no when to walk away. So take the advice of the country star Washington walk away and fold on Agent 0. It is risky but the key in sports is to know when a player has maxed out his talent and when he may start to slide. Contracts that are large can cripple a franchise should you not get what is expected from him. Miami Heat will tell you point blank should you need conformation. Shaq is the Big Contract now more than the Bog Diesel.

This is not to say I don't like Gilbert Arenas. I think he is great for the league. He in a unique character in a see of politically correct answers and attitudes he is different and stands out. But despite all of that I am not willing to say he is worth max money and the Wizards should resign him. Unlike Gilbert I have to grow my blog and that can't happen without me being honest and direct. I am sure Gilbert can understand that. I am as the kids say keepin it Real. I think the kids say that anyway. I am not hatin on my boy Agent Zero though. Word up. O.K that was enough of that. Nothing more sad than an old guy trying to rap.

Before I put this blog to bed I have something to get off my chest. Will fans please learn the basics before you go posting all over the Internet. When teams are making a trade you need to see both sides of the trade. Sure it be nice if you could just take all your unwanted players and dump them on a team but that is not realistic. Even the Timberwolves got a lot of value for Kevin Garnett despite it not showing at the moment. Very few times are trades made that are completely lopsided and those G.M's on the wrong end of those trades don't last long. Second here this loud and clear. No Team is Trading for an injured Player. Especially one with an injury that can likely reoccur if not careful. Meaning T.J Ford is not getting traded anywhere anytime soon. The old trading he will be doing is where he is living as far as moving back from Houston to rejoin Toronto. Remember only you can prevent fan stupidity one person at a time. Work hard to be a smart fan that knows what you are talking about that is all I'm asking. If you don't know something ask someone. Ask me. I do my best to be knowledgeable but even I turn to others when I don't know and try to find the answer. Your Questions, Comments and Thoughts are always welcomed here. So till Tomorrow be Smart and help educate those who need the help.

The Good Old Days

Vince Carter and his New Jersey Nets lost AGAIN yesterday. Vince really if all is right in the world will not make the All Star Team and does not deserve too. I am not one of the typical Vince Carter hating Raptor Fans. I should point that out off the top. Vince left he moved on I moved on it was a successful break up between us both. I still have old pictures like the one at the top of the blog but I have them to remember the good times. Many point to the hiring of Rob Babcock as the point where V.C wanted out. He had been pushing hard for Dr. J to be the next G.M. Carter was a big fan of the man and respected him. That was the point that Vinsanity truly died. You have to wonder if the loss yesterday marked the end of V.C and the Nets in his mind.

They say the best revenge in life is living well. Well Raptors have done that. They won first ever Division Title without Vince Carter. They cam oh so close to sending Carter packing personally out of last year's playoffs. This year Jersey and the playoffs in the same breath seems like an awful mistake. The Nets look closer to the Knicks that they do the Raptors. You have to wonder if late at night Vince alone doesn't think why did I leave. True is though no one can say what would have been. Would the Raptors still be Vince's team that seems unlikely with the rise of Chris Bosh.  What if in life can drive you nuts. Best not to think about it.

Lately another Ex-Raptor has been talking about a possible chance of a return to his roots. Damon Stoudamire regrets his leaving many years ago. After a storm exit by Isaiah Thomas Young Stoudamire felt he needed to follow his mentor out of Toronto. But that was long time ago and the fans who once booed Damon when he was drafted and when he left may turn that booing to cheering one last time. But the hate for Vince Carter runs far to deep to ever imagine him returning. Not even to have his number retired after his career is long and done. Nothing is impossible in sports but the idea of Vince Carter being a Raptor again seems highly unlikely.

What is much more likely is that he like his cousin T-Mac may be heading for team number three. McGrady left Toronto as well than had a failed time in Orlando and as of late no success in Houston not even a playoff series win. The future of Vince Carter is highly in doubt in many ways. His legacy a confusing one. There are great moments that you will never forget. Like the Dunk contest in Oakland or the time he jumped a 7foot plus French man making the ultimate poster. Deep down Vince is not a bad person. I honestly think that is the truth. But does he love basketball? Does he hate losing? I don't think he does at all. Sure Vince loves what basketball brings him a great lifestyle and some fame. But if that big check he gets was not coming in would Vince be a basketball player. If he had to play for 17 teams or whatever the number is like Jamario Moon to get to the NBA do you think he would?

There was great thought that Vince Carter going to the Nets would make them a contender in the east. But instead the team he left is the contender and the team he is with is a mess. Much like the team in Toronto was when he left. But unlike in Toronto the complete blame can't fall on Vince in New Jersey. His coming prevented Jason Kidd from going. But it would seem that was only a band aid solution as Kidd seems totally through with the Nets and has been sometimes quietly sometimes not suggested he would rather not be there. Carter only can be blamed for the same things he could in Toronto. Other than the long injury time outs that rest remains the same. The laughing when your down 20. The clowning around with other players. Sam Mitchell has said he likes Vince and has no issue with him. That is because he no longer is on Sam's team cause if he was I think Sam would have lots off issues with Vince Carter. But not his problem he is gone and not likely to return.

That may not be case with Raptor Fans though. V.C hate is alive and well. There will no doubt be posts in response to this blog that Vince is a Quitter and those will be the nice ones. However Rap fans have not learned something that Tracy McGrady should have taught them. T-Mac unlike Vince loved the boos in Toronto. He said and he was correct that people boo me because they loved me. That is true. Deny all you like but many of you that hate Vince today once loved him as your own. Hate and Love are a fine line we have all had bad relationships that can illustrate the point. The ultimate way to disrespect Vince Carter is to ignore him and move on.

You can bet if he was asked back into the lives of all of you now he would jump at the chance. He may even retract his statement about dunking being over rated. I guess what I am saying is you won Raptor fans. V.C has lost he is on the team that is a mess. You are cheering for a team going to playoffs for second year in a row. Do I expect anyone to listen? Not at all. But still at some point the Vince Carter era needs to be put to bed. Still to this day he comes up in Chats,Forums, and Blogs. The time is long over. In fact if Joey Graham gets trade there really is nothing left from the trade that sent him to New Jersey.

I can tell you honestly Vince Carter will end up regretting leaving Toronto. But he may never get a chance to go home again. The next stop for V.C? Is there one? Who knows at this point but he is in trade rumor after trade rumor. All I know is one of those teams is not the TORONTO RAPTORS. Not that deep down Carter may wish it was. The grass looks pretty green under all that snow in Toronto.

One argument that use to be made that no longer applies was the salary cap. But hockey has a cap now and still they have many deals although far less spectacular ones. The NBA trades and moves seem more geared to happen in the off season rather than in season. In Fact Bryan Colangelo made the only deal on deadline day last year acquiring Juan Dixon for Fred Jones. Hardly a Block Buster. Compare that to Kevin Garnett trade to Boston or even Ray Allen Trade from Seattle to Boston. Both made in the off season.

But maybe just maybe this season will be different. With the Western Conference tighter than it ever has been with a new leader daily and an Eastern Conference with everyone out to beat Boston. The mood may be set for one of the greatest trade deadlines in the history of basketball. At the very least the most exciting one in years. The Toronto Raptors likely will be part of all the fun as well.

Vince Carter heading out of New Jersey? That could happen. Jason Kidd maybe too. T-Mac leaves the rockets. Ron Artest goes where? Mike Bibby the solution at point guard for who? Just a few of the names you are going to hear as the deadline approaches. To get you set to the lay of the land. Here is my top 5 list of buyers and sellers at the trade deadline. Teams that need too move players the most and teams that need to make a move the most. First The Sellers.

Top 5 Sellers:

1. Philadelphia 76ers: The Sixers have new management and are looking to continue to rebuild. They have guy like Andre Miller that some team will want as a point guard weather it be back up or starting. Biggest name but maybe not only name sixers could move.

2. Sacramento Kings: Mike Bibby, Ron Artest and anyone not named Kevin Martin could be on the way out in Sactown. No more trips and free stays at the Palms Hotel. The time to rebuild is here. Even 2 guys that own a Casino know when it's time to fold.

3. Minnesota T-Wolves: No K.G and you got a terrible record. Time to continue to retool while you still have a job. Ask Rob Babcock what happens when you make a bad trade. Your time is limited. So expect Kevin to be looking to give Minnesota a reason to think he has a plan.

4. Miami Heat: Oh how the mighty have fallen. A aging Shaq and his big contract and a lot of old vets does not a contender make. D Wade needs reason to believe he has not moved to a retirement community. Pat Riley better figure out a way to convince him and fast. The clock is ticking and it better be on more than just the first pick in next year's draft.

5. New York Knicks: I have long stopped trying to figure out the Knicks. But if they were smart they would be sellers. Let's see if they actually are? History tells us no. Besides beyond David Lee is there anyone that would want a Knick at this point? We will find out.

Others with players on EBAY To buy: New Jersey, Seattle, L.A Clippers, Chicago Bulls , Memphis Grizzles , Indiana Pacers.

Top Buyers:

2. Toronto Raptors: They need to improve. They right now might be good enough to win a round. Is that good enough for Bryan Colangelo. I say no. He will say it too. That is why he is as good as he is. Good is never good enough.

4. L.A Lakers: We thought they would be the biggest sellers by selling Kobe but who knew the Lakers would be good? In fact so good that they re looking to buy. A big to help fill the huge void of the loss of Andrew Bynum would be nice. They are one of the many teams that could use a point guard too. Maybe New Jersey has what the Lakers are looking for. But the Lakers are shoppers.

5. Dallas Mavericks: Mark Cuban is a guy that is not afraid to take a risk. He may need to do that to get his Mavs out of the West to a finals. What is that risk and what will it cost. Not sure but you can bet Cuban will be pushing his people to make him happy.

Other Buyers: Suns, Hornets, Orlando, Spurs

So you see there are lots of people that want and lots of people that need. That sets up for a very interesting lead up to trade deadline. In the past we have been disappointed with the lack of action. It may happen again. But with so many teams locked into the clear situations of buyers and sellers it seems that we are almost a lock to have some movement. We wait and see.