A New Confidence Found Behind The Mask

"Andrea played well. I asked him, ‘Who was that masked man?’ Andrea seemed like he had a lot more confidence in the things that he did. " That is a quote of Sam Mitchell and I could not agree more.  Confidence has been a very fragile thing for Andrea in his short NBA Career.  Maybe like in the movie "The Mask" by putting on that mask Andrea Bargnani transforms him into a more confident guy.  Many mentions of Rip Hamilton when seeing the new look Bargnani. Hamilton did try to take his mask off and had a bad game and thus the mask went back on for good. To me Andrea was looking more like Bill Laimbeer the former Bad Boy Piston now WNBA head coach.  Sam Mitchell would not complain if Bargnani added a little bit of Bill inside him he wouldn't mind. Hamilton's mask is a little more attractive then the one Andrea had but if it works screw the way it looks.  The reason why for Andrea may not be clear as to where his confidence came from. But the rest of the team that is a no brainier. Chris Bosh, he himself did not do a lot, but his team mates we're confident playing with just his presence on the floor. 

Look not further then Jamario Moon for the proof.  Four hi-light worthy dunks for the fans and a better defensive effort and 14 rebounds for his coach and team. That is the perfect Moon night.  Calderon had a double double, Rasho Continue to step it up, More controlled T.J Ford and everyone just seemed to do what they are expected to do. After the road trip from hell the Toronto Raptors got the perfect match-up to make all right in their world.  But only one freebie per NBA Team. Actually there will be another freebie coming but not yet. Next 3 games are 3 quality teams and all have reason to think the Raptors are the underdog to them.  Raptors have to get ready for the playoffs and what better way to do it. Answering challenges like this down the stretch will go a long way in determining what Raptors think of themselves and what the fan base does as well.  Clearly Chris Bosh is a key part to what makes this collection of players work. He will be a factor in not just how he plays but how his team around him plays. The often measure of a "great" player is how his team plays around him. Does he make his team better?  Steve Nash has to M.V.P Trophies based on the philosophy. 

Chris Bosh is not in the running for that award but game in game out it becomes clear to all that watch he is the Raptor's M.V.P.  That is not something that could always be said for Vince Carter in his time in Toronto. They never chanted M.V.P for Vince at the A.C.C.  Fans have for Bosh and it is well deserved.  He has come such a long way and you have to appreciate the leader he  has become.  He took the mess that Vince Carter left and turned it into something through hard work and working with management not against it. Carter is now having the things that made him fall from grace in Toronto are now happening in New Jersey. Many feel that he was a big reason in why Jason Kidd wanted out of New Jersey. Toronto fans have to smile and say that the Nets should have known better. The Raptors can now laugh off the horrible trade that sent Vince to Jersey. They can see it now as a good thing for if not for it then we may not have Bryan Colangelo.  He along with his superstar and his coach can take pride in what Bosh has been able to do.

The Toronto Raptors set 5 team Records Last night:

• Least Points allowed in a half
• Least Points allowed in a game (3rd lowest total in NBA History in Shot Clock Era)
• Largest lead ever in Team History
• Largest Margin of Victory
• Lowest amount of field goals allowed (20)

Here is something I never thought I would say. It may be a one night event but Philadelphia fans showed more class then the folks at the ACC. Allen Iverson returned to Philadelphia last night to a hero's welcome. Iverson is truly on of the toughest athletes in pro sports. He gives his body to the game and thus gave his body for many years for Philly Fans. They had the intellect to understand that and appreciate that. While in Toronto when the Raptors were taking the boots to the Heat. Fans at the ACC were chanting for Pizza. They booed the Raptors when they committed a turnover that ended the fans dream of pizza . THIS IS STUPID. IT IS A SLICE OF PIZZA. GET OVER IT. This is the second time this issue has been a factor at the ACC. Fans that are TRUE basketball fans don't care if they get a free piece of somewhat quality pizza. They would be happy seeing team history. These people that cheer about Pizza need to get a clue. The Raptors need to end the embarrassment that this promotion has become. If Raptors win you get Pizza cut and dry. If not that get rid of the promotion altogether. May not be popular but it is better then letting your fan base embarrass your organization. The fact the ACC is full every night is great. But it is not great when fans who spend far more to go to a game then the cost of a pizza slice , It seems silly that these people to get bent out of shape over something that likely cost less then it did to park at the game. In short GROW UP PEOPLE. True fans are embarrassed by your behavior. 

Just wanted to make you aware of the new DINO NATION BLOG group on facebook.

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=15079925900

This is your chance to have more of an impact on what you read and be part of the process that makes this blog.  You can also get to know the others like you that read the blog.  So if that interests you by all means come join me on facebook.

NCAA TOURNEY starts today. I have not figured out how exactly I will work NCAA Stuff but check back at some point if you have the Madness.

Ready For His Close Up?

Chris Bosh this season has been showing the world he has a funny side. The UTUBE videos and a much more fun loving guy that seems to have got use to his place as an NBA STAR. Well not that we don't love the videos and off the wall humor but it is time to get to work. The Raptors need the player that is a hard nose competitor that hates to lose. Bosh has not lost that on the floor and it is a good thing. The greatest challenge of the young superstars career lies ahead. His team has looked anything but like a playoff team let alone a contender without him. In Fact in his entire Career the Raptors record with out him in the line-up is embarrassingly bad. This season they are 4-11 without him. That is a huge reason the Raptors find themselves just 1 game above .500. He is the key to so many things for this basketball team. The only player that can draw a double team on offense. The team's emotional leader on defense. The fact that Raptor fans expect him to come back and fix everything that is wrong is based in these things. I understand that Chris Bosh will not be in the running for the M.V.P this year. I don't think he should be that is not what I am saying. What I am saying is if they take the term to mean value to his team, few players in this league mean more to the teams they play then Chris Bosh does to the Toronto Raptors. Maybe some day he will be in the running, Nothing about Chris Bosh surprises me much anymore. He has come such a long way from that shy quiet kid out of Georgia Tech. In his own words(from his interview on The Hour on CBC) when he came here no one cared "We Had Vince Carter" no one was worried about him. I wonder if you could find a Raptor fan that doesn't now though?

The truth is so a very tough job lies ahead for Bosh. People that are basketball minded understand that it will not just magically fix everything by Chris Bosh returning. This is what fans expect though. The challenge of meeting such unrealistic expectations may be to much to ask. However Bosh will except any challenge that is put in front of him. Besides that you have to think sitting and watching his team get knocked around would be motivation enough. The Raptors leader must step up to the plate and lead this team. Thankful the challenge at first is not a hard one. It will allow Bosh a bit of a chance to breath in this first game. Once that is done there will be few more opportunities this season. The would be playoff opposition will be next in the Cleveland Cavs and King James with his new court. A chance to convince Raptor Fans that falling back to sixth place is not required. Make no mistake about it though this is a key moment for Chris Bosh in his career. If he should not be successful the damage to his reputation would be felt. Not to say Raptor Fans would turn on him and Boo him like they have with others in the past. It would bring questions of how good he actually was and was he a REAL leader for this team. I have no reason to think Chris Bosh will have to deal with that though. I BELIEVE IN CHRIS BOSH.

I also think he can help a lot of people in bad need of it. Sam Mitchell now has back-up to express his words. Bosh has always been a Mitchell supporter and you have to think that he will do his best to help his coach get his message through. What that message for T.J Ford will be is anyone's guess. I do know this much though, from what Bosh and Ford have said about the relationship they have, Bosh may be the only one that can get T.J turned around beyond T.J himself. The other thing I can be 98% certain of is that T.J Ford will take less shots. When there is no Chris Bosh in the line-up T.J Ford thinks he is the next best player on this team. I am not saying he is right but that is what he thinks. Bosh returning will put T.J back in his place to some degree. The 2 people that need Bosh the most are Mitchell and Ford.

The effect on Andrea Bargnani is yet to be determined. It will mean one of two things. A return to the bench or a shift back to the 5 spot on the floor. I am not thinking the bench is going to happen despite over the past few days suggesting that it should. I really feel bad for Rasho Nesterovic he has done great work with Bosh out. The other person that has stepped it up in Bosh's absence has been Anthony Parker. If I were Bosh I would just tell Parker this " KEEP IT UP".  He seems to be to much of a team player at times. He needs to start getting his as far his offense goes. Same goes for Jason Kapono who in the last couple has looked more like what Bryan Colangelo had in mind bringing him in from Miami. 

In the NBA the Rocket Red Glare has finally fizzled as the Boston Celtics put a hurting on the streaking Rockets. How they respond will determine a lot of what we think about Houston going into the Playoffs. We also had the first March Madness game and you can scratch Coppin State off of your brackets. Mt Saint Marys reward in having to face the North Carolina Tarheels. But did you know by winning that game it earned the 1 million dollars. Well not the players the school. Charles Barkley once said that NCAA FOOTBALL and BASKETBALL were the last forms of slavery in the United States of America. I agree with Sir Charles. CBS paid a billion dollars for the right to this tournament for the next 25 years. These kids deserve some kind of piece of that pie. A free education is great and all but these players are generating huge amounts of money off these kids backs. They need to go on strike. Imagine what would happen if all NCAA Basketball players organized themselves and decided to walk out the day before the Tournament starts or in Football before the Bowl Season. I am sure Charles Barkley would gladly represent the kids as Union Leader. Just something to think about next time you watch these college kids perform. 

Last night a podcast was added on Today's Topic Of the Bosh Return so if you missed it here is the link:http://dinoblogger.podbean.com/  that is the link to the main podcast site.

Here is what the MAN himself had to say about his return: http://www.chris-bosh.com/content/blogcategory/1/26/

Face Of Frustration

The morning after a complete meltdown for T.J Ford and Sam Mitchell. When you ask both will tell you that they never read the papers or the Internet.  It could be true but when you see the frustration that exploded last night you have to wonder. That is no excuse for what happened. Ford took his frustration with himself and turned it on the referees and took his team out of a game they were in and in desperate need of winning it.  Sam Mitchell needed to pull Ford out of this game long before the volcano that was building in T.J exploded. I have supported both Mitchell and Ford but it was clear that both screwed up and I will say it. How did it ever get to this point. It is a whole lot of things that involve a whole lot of people. Starting with of course Sam Mitchell and T.J Ford.

I have heard for as long as I can remember that Sam Mitchell is not a great Tactical Coach. I never debate that point at all. I do say that because of the way his team plays hard for him I am willing to forgive a lack of knowledge as a play caller. The thought being that motivation is not as easily learned as play calling in my opinion. However the whispers about Sam Mitchell having lost his teams attention are concerning. The key is though has he lost his superstar in Chris Bosh. If he has then all could be lost for Mitchell. If not though the return of Bosh should help Mitchell get the team back on his side. Listening to what he is preaching. If Sam has lost his ability to motivate this ball club he is truly a lesser coach and not effective.  This is truly a watershed moment for Sam Mitchell as a head coach. If you like Sam you hope he can break through. If you don't you have already said I told you so many times this year.

Ford has had a season that would frustrated almost anyone. He started it playing some of the best basketball he has ever played in the NBA. However his team did not match that level of play. He would then try to make a good play by drawing a charge and he would get another stinger like the one that he suffered in  the playoffs. He would work his way back to health. He would fully look recovered in Atlanta only to be sent crashing to the floor and injured again. While he was out Jose Calderon would take over and play to a level even higher to where Ford was. A long and frustrating recovery would bring Ford back to Toronto after some thought even Ford himself that his career may be over and he would retire. He would comeback and be forced to accept a back-up role. He has battled to make up for the loss of Bosh which would happen not long after his return. That lead to more problems and it exploded last night in T.J's rage last night. T.J Ford is a very interesting guy when you think how quiet and well mannered he is off the floor. When he steps on the floor there is a person that is full of fire and rage. That rage and frustration can come out in many ways. The key to Ford in all aspects is to balance that fire with the intellect he has to play basketball. Ford is a highly intelligent player if you think he is not you are wrong. But he is also a highly emotional player and emotion is nothing to do with logic. The return of Chris Bosh may be that calming influence that Ford is in desperate need of. If anyone can get through to T.J it could be Bosh. It is one of the many things that Bosh will have on his plate when he returns. Getting his friend in T.J back on track may not even be number one on that list.

Defense would be I would think. Bosh alone can not fix the defense of the Raptors.  However he can be a big part of the road back to respectable. The Raptors will settle for respectable and they were at that point earlier in the year. The lesson learned from last year's playoffs vs. Nets should have been that defense in the playoffs matters. So in these last 15 games finding it will be most important. No matter who the Raptors will face in the playoffs without a better defensive effort it will not matter cause Raptors will have no chance.  Bosh clearly adds a solid part to the mix but defense is really about 5 parts working as 1. Trust needs to be re-established and people need to come together as a unit. Bosh will need to get his team to all buy in to what Sam Mitchell has been selling since day 1 of training camp DEFENSE. 

Andrea Bargnani may actually be the root to Sam Mitchell losing his team. I said at the time I was against Andrea being put into the starting line-up. It went against the core values of what Sam Mitchell has always been about. He has always said that if players work than they will earn what they get as far as playing time and starts. Well Andrea had earned nothing and Sam Mitchell's credibility has taken a blow with his team I think. That could explain a lot of what has been going on. It was not a good idea to force feed Bargnani into the starting line-up. He is an emotionally fragile player and that isn't going to be fixed by giving him things he has not earned. Bargnani lacks confidence and it really is becoming a growing issue in his development. The fact Chris Bosh and Bargnani have both had injury issues at different times has not helped build chemistry between the two players. Bargnani needs to step up and show he has some toughness in him. The shot he took in Miami I thought would spark that. But I was wrong he is back to being the same Andrea that lacks confidence and rebounding. 

This only scratches the surface of what has been going wrong. Moon is starting to lose his luster and needs to start to get it as I talked about yesterday in this blog. He too may be part of the Sam Mitchell problem. A guy that Sam wants to succeed because he sees some of himself in Jamario Moon. But he can not be blinded by that and needs to honestly address if Moon deserves to start any longer. Kapono is finally starting to be a factor. But Delfino is a better defender and would likely be the choice to replace Moon. 

The little flicker of hope in this time of trouble. Anthony Parker and Rasho Nesterovic. They have played like the old pros that they are. Both have raised the level of their play with Bosh out and they now need to maintain it as Bosh returns. Things are bad for the Raptors but as bad as it is the truth is they have lost nothing yet and if they can turn it around can save this season from becoming a huge disappointment for most Raptor Fans. But the room for error is now gone. No more mistakes can be hidden the time has come to look in the mirror and decide what you are going to do to make this team better. That is the challenge for ever Raptor Player and Coach. Bosh will no doubt make sure everyone answers that challenge.

NEW POD CAST ON BOSH RETURN 

( This will be included in tomorrow's blog due to late hour )

Podcast Link:http://dinoblogger.podbean.com/2008/03/18/cb4-return/

15 Minutes Is Running Out For Moon

The story of Jamario Moon is a great one that would warm even the coldest heart. He has went from nobody to somebody almost overt night. He got there by playing hard defense and impressing his coach Sam Mitchell enough to give him a chance. He would run with it and the guy who started the season as a undressed reserve was a starter. It was hard to believe but it happened and he had earned it. The fairy tale would continue as an opportunity to compete in the dunk contest in New Orleans would be offered to him. He would go and lose to a cupcake and superman. The ride for Moon has been wild. Sam Mitchell has in his own humorous way has tried to keep moon grounded. Once when Moon was in a media scrum he said walking by don't let your time run out Jamario. This in reference to the expression of 15 minutes of fame. Moon has had more than 15 minutes but his days as a starter could be coming to an end.

You see Sam Mitchell's frustration with the man that reminds Sam a lot of himself. He too had to take the long road to the NBA and can understand what it is like for Jamario Moon. However Sam Mitchell Favorite or not it may just be time to show Mr. Moon to a seat on the bench. The reason Moon is suppose to be in the starting line-up to provide defense and rebounding. The occasional dunk is good too. But his defense has been less than impressive, his rebounding is down and he takes far to many long range shots and not enough jams and drives. A trip to the bench may be a solid reminder to Moon of his job on this team.

Another starter that should not be there is Andrea Bargnani. I have heard that old song about you need to play him to help his game grow. Well I have yet to see growth and you have too start to show more if you want to stay in my starting line-up. When Bosh returns I would seen Mr. Bargnani to have a seat beside Mr. Moon. Rasho Nesterovic has shown to me he deserves to remain in the starting line-up. Bargnani just night in and night out does not bring enough that I can live with him starting any longer. Rasho is doing more and provides what the Raptors need. Bargnani is not a bust but he is not getting the job done and it is about earning what you get. Chris Bosh has earned ever minute of floor time in his NBA Career. Andrea should have to do the same.

The issue of these 2 guys starting has to not sit well with players on this team. They always say the right things and act the right way but you have to think it bothers guys like Delfino and Nesterovic and Kapono. What is not an issue is the fact that Jose Calderon has earned himself some time to work through his issues and remain a starter. He played to well and to consistently not to be given that chance. Sam Mitchell will go with the better of his 2 point guards down the stretch regardless of what name is called at the start. Ford has been just as inconsistent as Jose since returning. Both point guards will be glad to see a returning Chris Bosh on Wednesday. 

I have to say the starting this season I was excited at the Raptors acquiring Maceo Baston. I am a Michigan Fan like Chuck Swirsky and maybe that is why I thought Maceo would do more. The reality is he has become in effect the NEW Pope Sow. Hardly used and glued to the bench. He more than anyone must look at the Jamario Moon rise and say what is wrong with me. But another famous Mitchell line is this one " Last time I checked everyone still gets paid on the 1st and 15th". So Maceo getting that NBA paycheck can still be nice despite not getting a chance to play. You have to think that there is a issue as to why. Sam Mitchell bases a lot of what he does on how players practice. Safe to say Baston has not got it done in practice. Thankfully Allen Iverson isn't here or he may never get on the floor. Just kidding but if your name is Maceo Baston and not Allen Iverson you need to show more and can't afford to take practice lightly.

Ex-Raptor Rafer Alston who was not exactly a Sam Mitchell favorite had a big day. He had 31 points and his Rockets continue to skyrocket on a 22 game winning streak. Rafer has finally found his groove in the NBA. I always liked Alston and am happy to see that he has been able to re-establish his career in Houston. He along with Tracy McGrady are two former Raptors living large these days. The Raptors are in the exact opposite area that Houston is in. No they haven't lost 22 straight but if you ask them and ask fans it sure feels like it. I have said it several times over the last little while, Chris Bosh has a lot of work to do when he returns. CB4 SAVE US. YOU ARE OUR ONLY HOPE!!!

Bosh Has Work Ahead

When Chris Bosh returns I do not have the answer for you. However when he does he will have much work to do. He has always been widely accepted as this team's leader and franchise player. He will have that role of leader put to the test. The Raptors since his injury have not been the same. The team that rolled through the first year and a half without an controversy has some now. Jose Calderon has not been the same since T.J Ford's return. Ford since Bosh went down has tried to play the role of team leader and scoring leader. But that has lead to frustration from the fans and it is starting to be more importantly with his team mates. However most of all the Raptors improved defense is long gone and entered the witness protection program. There are just a few of the major issues that will face Chris Bosh when he returns. He watched first hand as the Denver Nuggets laid the smack down on his team.

The thought of some is that when Chris Bosh returns the Raptors problems will wash away. Some of them will but not all. The first and foremost thing that will be helped is the Raptor Offense. There is not anyone that draws double teams on defense with no Bosh. The return of Bosh and the defense against him should be good news for guy like Jason Kapono and Carlos Delfino. They will get more chances at open looks. Anthony Parker has to continue to take the shots that come is way and with Bosh back they will be easier.  T.J Ford and Jose Calderon both will have Bosh to run the pick and roll offense with. It will also make Ford more confident in being a passer and taking less shots. While Jose should see more chances to take shots and make them.

The major problem is the defense though and just Bosh along does not solve that. What he will add is some help on the glass and another shot blocker to the mix. But the breakdowns the Raptors are having are far more serious. Perhaps Bosh can bring back an accountability and pride. It will take a team refocused on the task of defending your individual man. Trust that your help will be there but not dependence on it. The most important thing is to get on the glass. Many times this season the Raptors have played great defense and not been rewarded for it. The reason is the lack of rebounding. Second chance points have killed the Raptors in some games. They must complete the job by getting rebounds. However lately the perimeter and transition defense has been awful. Layups and three points shots can build team's confidence in a big way. The easier you allow teams to get points the more confident they become. Sam Mitchell has said this "You let a good player in this league make a few shots and then he starts feeling it and your dead." That may not be the direct quote but that is the basic idea of what he said. Allen Iverson started  7 for 7 in the last game. That can't happen if you expect to win.

Bosh I think enjoyed last season more then anyone. He had suffered long and hard and finally got his team to the post season. They will be going back unless a major meltdown happens. However the goal this year was not just to get back but to win. A round or a couple but some playoff success. The defense this team is playing in the playoffs will get you swept away faster then you can blink. Bosh has about a month to figure out how to make his team a playoff ready force. He is the hope to get this thing back on track. This is a test to the leadership he has and a challenge to take on. Bosh has always answered challenges but this may be the biggest one he has faced. He is the man from which much is expected and much of the praise you get is to come through in times like this. Fans can chant M.V.P but if you don't keep it up you will be getting booed before you know it. But being the Franchise Player and a 3 time all-star gives you a lot of rope with fans. Because ultimately they see him as the biggest part of the team's success and future. So no time to cheer for Georgia Tech or make a wager on March Madness there is to much work to be done.

That may be true for Bosh. However for myself it isn't. I wanted to throw out a final reminder about are NCAA POOL as part of facebook. You and your friends are invited to take on the Dino Nation Blogger and all those who read this thing. So here is the link:

http://apps.facebook.com/cbssports/groups/group/11199

Also as the tournament is going on I will be adding my 2 cents on what is going on. Perhaps some Raptor angles to it. But basically it will deal with the tournament and this pool. I will title this section MARCH MADNESS and if you are not an NCAA Fan and only want you Raptor Fix you can stop reading when you see that bold title. If there is one player I am hoping could end up a Raptor it is Roy Hibert. The Georgetown track record of big men in the NBA is an impressive one. Hibert is a big that could help the Raps on the glass. It is not something he has excelled at in college but in the pros he can develop the skill with his great size. I am not one for checking out mock drafts this early in the year but I don't need to see one to know the Raptors would need to get very lucky or make a trade to move up to get Hibert but I still would like to see him as a Raptor. I once wanted a little guard from Texas but instead got Chris Bosh. That worked out pretty well. Ford would end up a Raptor anyway and that is just how life can work out for you. No question Bosh was what the Raptors needed and he has been far better than even the most optimistic would have thought coming out of Georgia Tech as a freshman. T.J wants to be on that level and struggles to get there. He takes a lot of heat and I do for supporting him.  But that is o.k he can take it and so can I. We all have players we love and cheer for. If you don't then you are missing out on what being a sports fan is all about. The key is not to get blinded by you love for a player. To understand that even if they put on a superman costume there real is no superman in basketball. Every player has off nights and off seasons. Support the guys you choose to support. That is what makes sports fun and if you get to much into contracts and money more than the people those numbers represent you are missing out. Players have flaws and you need to understand what they are but still support them despite them.  This is true of each and every player in any sport you choose.  If you have that kind of unconditional support of a player I respect that. So here is hoping the Raptors can stop the bleeding and get a win in Sacramento tonight. Raptor Rewind and Podcast later as well as some thoughts on the NCAA Tournament as the brackets will be announced about 6pm eastern.

Ford and Mitchell Always Cause Debate

If you feel the need to get into a knock down drag out debate. Find a Raptor Forum and have a strong opinion on T.J Ford Or Sam Mitchell. The fact that Sam Mitchell and T.J Ford have a relationship that extends back to the time they both spent with the Bucks. I don't think this was a huge national secret. Does it mean that Sam Mitchell has a blind spot towards T.J Ford? Some Raptor fans suggest that it does. But realistically does this debate old any water? I am willing to say a little bit. I mean to have been there when T.J Ford had his original injury with the Bucks Mitchell being a human being as to have been touched by Ford's recovery and return to the NBA. However to suggest that it impacts on him to this day would also suggest he has a bias against Jose Calderon. That is where the theory gets flawed. I think Sam Mitchell respect Jose Calderon and I point back to game 6 in last year's playoffs for the evidence. Jose was the point guard when it mattered most. If there is a Ford Bias where was it on that night. Sam Mitchell also has never been a guy that plays favorites. He benched Vince Carter, sent Jalen Rose to the Bench and sent Rafer Alston packing. It real comes down to this ultimately..... DO YOU RESPECT SAM MITCHELL? A lot of Raptor fans do not.  I am not among them.  I think he has done a reasonable job and fought through some tough times and remains true to his values and I for one respect that. I try to do the same in this blog. It would be easy to turn my back on Sam Mitchell and T.J Ford but I stay true to my values and support them. It does not mean that I can not say they have flaws. Sure they do. 

But so does Jose Calderon but that fact is far less written or talked about. That is likely due to the fact that he is a very easy guy to like. Ford and Mitchell are not as fan friendly as they both have a personality that can be taken in a negative way. Jose is a very easy guy to like. In fact I like him it is possible to like Jose and T.J. Not to common maybe as it seems to be a very divided issue like a quarterback debate in football. Jose was the Back-up Quarterback that seemed to be the favorite of the fan base. He got the chance to be the starter thanks to an injury and took the ball and ran with it. Make no mistake if not for Jose the Raptors would be in a bad spot. He stepped up to the challenge and was able to fill in for Ford and to an excellent job and can take pride in the fact that the Raptors are going to playoffs as a result of the job he did. He offers a very different and safer style than T.J Ford does. There are many ways to play the point guard position and there is no right answer. Steve Nash, Chris Paul, Deron Williams and Jason Kidd are all great point guards but all play the game in a different way. Ford and Calderon is as much a debate over styles as it is over who should start. I hope the debate goes on for years cause that will mean Calderon and Ford are both still here. I think they are both key parts to the future.

Chris Bosh is slowly making his way back from injury. Fans are even a bit divided on this issue. Some think we have not heard the whole story on Chris Bosh's knee. It would not be the first time a Toronto Sports Franchise had lied about an injury. However I have always found the Raptors to be pretty good in this regard. No Upper or Lower Body injuries and no back injury that turns into an arm injury. Bosh is taking the careful approach and wants to be ready for the playoffs. After all when this season started many people said the Raptor season would be judged based on the playoffs and how they perform. So it makes sense that the Raptors would want it's biggest weapon at full strength. So the talk that Bosh is more injured than people think is not exactly easy to see.  People have tried to read into things and jump to conclusions. But I will not do that and just hope when Bosh comes back he is ready to hit the ground running.

Raptor Fans can agree on this point I think though. Anthony Parker has been the Raptor M.V.P during the Bosh injury. He is picking up his game and becoming a scoring threat. The hope will be he can maintain that when Bosh returns. Parker can be a bigger part of the puzzle if he takes the control. He is the best of the Raptor options at the 2 or 3. He makes solid choices when he gets the basketball and is able to mix drive and shoot better than anyone on the Raptor roster. A better Parker is a better Raptor Offense. 

When you add all of what is going on together. The Raptors are going to come out a better team on the other side of this Bosh injury. Parker has becoming a legit scoring option. Andrea Bargnani also has been able to score more. T.J Ford has been able to get his confidence back. All these things will help the Raptors as they move towards the post season. The idea is to peek when it matters most. Houston is hot right now winners of 20 games in a row but that does not get them anything right now. Just like the Mavericks great regular season it can all go up in smoke. The idea is to have the best Raptor team at the end of April and even though it may not be obvious there are good things going on despite the losses that will help the Raptors when it matters most. So relax and understand the things that matter most. Like who is in the game at point guard at the end of games not the start. If Raptors can get some good out of games they were expected to lose anyway that can't be such a bad thing as well.

Parker, Rasho and Humphries

I am just as guilt as everyone else of not giving enough love to the Raptor role players. Anthony Parker has taken his game to a new level and is game in and game out defensive effort often goes without much thought or praise. He was a star in Europe and since coming to the NBA he has been a solid rotation player as a starter for the Raptors. He may not be the biggest star even in his own family. Parker's Sister Candice is going to be the first pick in the WNBA and likely will be the face of that league for years to come. She was a star at Tennessee which is a far cry from her brother's college of Bradley. But the Bradley Brave has taken the long route to the NBA and he is now rounding into for as a key contributor for a winning team in the NBA. The biggest key for Anthony will be to continue the play he has displayed when Chris Bosh returns. He has stepped it up and become a key scorer and this must continue when Bosh returns. If he can do that than the Raptors are a better offense for it. There is no reason Anthony Parker should not average 16-20 points within the Raptor offense. Sam Mitchell should make plays that will feature Parker as the number one option. I am confident in his ability to know when to drive and when to shoot more than any of the other Raptor Options at the wing positions. He has shown an aggressive nature that guys like Jamario Moon could learn from. Moon to often will take a jump shot far to often than he will drive to bucket with aggression. Parker is a far better shooter but still understands the value of mixing it up. Moon needs to learn that people want him to shot. If you are a team facing the Raptors one of the best scenarios you could hope for is a long Jamario Moon jumper.

Next man who deserves an amount of praise is Rasho Nesterovic. Often over looked but always a professional Rasho has been in the words of former teammate Tim Duncan "Rasho is Awsome". I agree he is but in that same boring effective way that Tim Duncan is.  He is however a effective defender and when given the chance can be just as effective on the offensive end of the floor. Nesterovic has shown the numbers he can get with more time on the floor and being a bigger part of the game plan. It seems that Rasho is likely to be moving on after this season as he would be an easy answer to add some salary to a trade for Bryan Colangelo. However Colangelo does understand that Rasho is a key part to the team he has put together and under a different contract number may want to hang on to the big man. Rasho has an option that will pay him a huge sum of money and it is unlikely he would pass that up. However the idea on a little long term security may be attractive if he could get a deal that would pay him a little more money but spread out over a few years. Rasho gets his money and the Raptors get some cap room. It is a long shot but it could be something you would at least want to offer to him. He seems happy in Canada and was so much so he had his child born here. Something that was good news for the Canada's National team in about 18 years. I think it is unlikely Rasho will stay but he is showing you a reason why you may want to consider it as of late.

Kris Humphires is likely part of the best ever trade in Raptor history. Given up on by the Utah Jazz he was traded for Babcock mistake Hoffa. I am not even saying the last name because there is no need. Some are known by one name for stardom like Magic, Larry, Sir Charles and than there are people like Hoffa that are remembered for wrong reasons like Sam Bowie. He was the guy picked #1 in Micheal Jordan's draft year. But back to Hump, he was signed to an new contract extending his time with Raptors before this season. Proof that he is held in high regard by the Raptor management. He has taken his second chance in Toronto and run with it. Sure he is very rough around the edges. I can also guarantee you that he will never lead the team in assists like Rasho Nesterovic did the other day. But I am fine with Kris Humphries trying to get his. After all he goes through stretches where he will not play. He never complains and when that #43 is called he goes out and be it 2 minutes or 22 minutes he gives you all he has got. It is easy to forget that Kris was a star at Minnesota with the Golden Gophers. The Big Ten Freshman of the Year. However he unlike Chris Bosh would have been bettered served to return to college for his sophomore year. However Kris was fortunate to be able to remain in the NBA and learn on the job. Some kids that make that mistake do not end up so lucky. See Gerald Green for proof of the fact that entering the NBA Draft to early may not be such a good idea. Other than adding to his Slam Dunk Legend he build in High School by winning an NBA Dunk off not much else has been good for Green. Kris Humphries can take pride in the fact he has a contract rather than a dunk contest trophy. That means a little more and gets you a check on the 1st and 15th.

Raptors are in Oakland tonight and if you are part of the late night crew that stays up you can expect a full Raptor Rewind complete with sleepy podcast. If not it will be here with your morning cup of coffee. While on the West Coast Trip the Blogs will be little later then you may be use too. But I am living on West Coast Time even though I am writing in the East Coast.  After all it is only 12:35 pm Oakland time. So Till later take care and rest your neck muscles for tonight's game vs the Warriors.

Raps Try To Manage The West

There is no excuses Raptor Fans you have been told about this trip for well over a month. Just like that project in school that you might have forgot about it does not matter the due date is what it is. The Raptors can not ask for an extension form the NBA till Chris Bosh is healthy.  He is not expected to be in the line-up tonight against the Lakers and still no clue as to when he will be. Raptors will face a motivated Laker squad that dropped a contest to the Kings. There have been few games that the Lakers have not looked dominant since trading for Pau Gasol. Still No Andrew Bynum for the Lakers and that should make them even tougher to deal with. So it could be worse for the Raptors. That being said this is not a easy start to the west coast trip. However it likely is the toughest challenge so why not have it first. The Raptors may catch a break when they get to Denver as Allen Iverson is a question mark for the Nuggets as he deals with an injury. The Kings are banged up to with Ron Artest in and out of the line-up. But even the most optimistic of Raptor supporters are saying the Raps can get 2 out of 5 on this trip. The reality of getting none is real without Chris Bosh if he does not return as part of the trip.

That is not a lot of motivation to stay up late and watch the Raptors. Truth is the west coast road trip separates the casual fans from the diehard fans. If you can stay up late and watch the Raptors when they are expected to have little chance to win you have the DNA of a true Raptor Fan.  So when you go to school or work the next day with heavy eyes and frustration of a loss take heart in the fact that you are part of the true and strong breed of Raptor Fan. This season has brought into the fold a lot more fans that were gone for awhile waiting to jump back on the bandwagon. These people are the same ones that were saying this team was going to win 50 games. They will not be happy with the result of the Raptor season. However it is part of a process. In my travels around the Internet and watching T.V I heard this said "At this point every playoff game and series is a important step in the development of this team and it's players. The more competitive games they play and series they play the better at this point". That may not be a direct quote but I agree with the thought of the statement. Raptors are not ready for prime time and the chances they get to play impactive games can only help this team grow. Challenge individuals to perform under pressure and deliver.  I mean last season the Raptors could have drawn the easy match-up with the Wizards and got an easy trip to the second round. But playing Jersey taught them more and it was worth it.  There is talk that Raptors would much better off to face the Magic. However to go against Lebron James and the Cavs would be the better series growth wise. It all comes down to how you see things. Honestly the Raptors are not at the point of a true contender in the East. So it would be better for the future of this team to have the tougher road through Cleveland. Still you want the Raptors to win and Magic are the best chance at that but if that doesn't work out don't lose heart in facing Cleveland the reality is that Lebron James is always going be a force you will always have to deal with in the Eastern Conference sooner or later. 

So if the Raptors don't exactly do well on this west coast trip. Remember when all are freaking out around you it really isn't all that bad.  Raptors are minus the best player on the roster and are not fighting life and death to make the playoffs. In the West everyone is battling in on of the closest races in pro sports I can remember in a long time. From top to bottom the west is tough. I have a beef to with the media pointing to the Raptors as the example of what is wrong with the balance between the East and West. Yes it is true if Toronto was located where Vancouver is on the map they would not be in the post season. However Toronto is not the Problem with the Eastern Conference. They are over .500 and a decent to good basketball team. The problem with the East is the teams far below the .500 mark that are still in the race. Philadelphia, Chicago, Milwaukee and Atlanta. They are the the ones to blame not the RAPTORS. Even New Jersey was a playoff team for most of the season. Pathetic and shameful but again Raptors are not the issue. So put the blame where it belongs.

Dino Nation Blog News

I just wanted to say that I am deeply grateful that so many of you have made my blog a part of your world. I work at this like it is a job to me and take it as such. Yes it is not a perfect publication and it does at times have it's share of mistakes from time to time. But it is a adjustment for me to be a writer. My background is in radio and T.V. I am no longer able to work in that forum because I am responsible for care of a disabled family member. So this is how I try to stay doing what I am trained and love to do. The blog takes abuse sometimes for what is said and it is more than your right to do that and in fact sometimes I write in with the hopes it will spark debate and conversation.  I have no problem with anyone questioning what is said. I just get frustrated with people that take it to a personal level. It is not really needed. I can easily take it but I feel the need to point out that I put in hours a day into it being produced and on that alone deserve some element of respect. 

I have recently added the Podcasts to the mix and I hope you all enjoy them as well I think you will find them of equal if not a better quality than the blog itself. The best things you can do for me is enjoy my work and beyond that make others aware of it. Eventually it would be nice to have a larger audience for my work. 

I also use ADSENSE from google as a way of getting a very minor profit from my efforts. I understand if some people do not agree with the use of advertising and there is far to much of it on the Internet. But understand that it is just a small attempt at getting something for all the time and effort that goes into this project. I can tell you it is not a quick way to get rich for me. Far from it. 

So please if you enjoy this blog share that love with other folks that you think will enjoy it as well. I understand this last section was all about Me and it will be far from a regular feature. But I wanted to take a opportunity to share some thoughts on the Blog and it's motivation and Future. You all are what makes this blog worthwhile and are the reason it continues everyday. You all can also be part of it's growth and feel a small part of it's success.

Andrea Balboa???

Andrea Bargnani took a big step in the eyes of many Raptor fans last night. I hate to admit this but there still is a very hockey influence to the Toronto Raptor Fan base. Those people have a new found respect for Andrea Bargnani now I would think. The guy took a shot picked himself off the ground spit out some blood and drained two free throws. It was a watershed moment in the career of Andrea Bargnani. To this point he had the label of "soft" and was not thought to be tough. But this night will change some minds about that and it did change this blogger's mind. I think even his team will look at Andrea with a new found respect after the events of last night. The major issue still remains the same for Andrea though he must become more consistent. However this display will allow him some space to grow with fans I would think. They have been very hard on him and so have I for that matter. But If he is willing to take a shot like he did and get up and show some grit I am willing to giving him a little rope as far as his development. Bargnani would have preferred to not have a shiner and loose teeth to gain this respect from everyone but he has made a major step in his NBA career. I don't think he realizes how many fans he may have earned himself last night. But I am confident it was a lot. Andrea"Rocky"Bargnani? OK maybe not but he did show a little of the Rocky Character in him. 

This being said a concern I had after the T.J Ford injury in Atlanta is once again in the front of my mind. The Toronto Raptors can not continue to get pushed around. Charles Oakley in a suit would make me feel much better than Derek Martin. I understand Oakley can't play anymore in the NBA. He was on the T.V show PROS VS JOES on Spike T.V which is the true sign your career is over. But we need an Oakley type Enforcer. I know that is a hockey term but I can't think of a better word for what this guy needs to be. A guy that sits on the bench and when Sam calls his name his one mission is 6 HARD fouls. I always hear what a tough guy Joey Graham is suppose to be and let's face it not like he is playing much so how bout him? He is to nice a guy to be that kinda thug. O.K maybe Brezec the newest Raptor. He may think he is a thug gangster but looking at his body I am not convince he is tough enough to do it. Kurt Thomas who landed in San Antonio would have been a good fit in this role. He can even still play a little basketball. He maybe to old but a name to think about to fill this role. I just know that the Raptors need to stop getting pushed around by other NBA Teams and they need a real legit tough guy. If he can rebound even better he could fill 2 important roles for this team.

We are on paragraph number three and just are mentioning the fact the Raptors actually won. Thank God the losing streak is over. Now the Raptors can be NBA CHAMPS AGAIN. I get amazed every time by the wild swings in fan reaction over wins and loses it is truly amazing. I am happy the streak is over if for nothing else that fans can take a rest at playing G.M and trading T.J Ford and Firing Sam Mitchell. But all this being said the true test is what happens vs. Washington. The other thing that was clear was Miami is bad VERY BAD. Pat Riley took his entire team and threw it under the bus after the loss. It is going to be an interesting off-season in south beach. I won't feel a bit sorry for Riley though he screwed Stan Van Gundy and this is his Karma not unlike Alonzo got his ring thanks to Rob Babcock and now Zoe is history. Karma is a great thing. But like I was saying beat the Wizards and Sonics and build some momentum  for a very tough road swing West.

By the way that whole cheering for the Cavs idea. I say well done Raptor fans. Lebron dropped 50 on Knicks. It is no doubt due to his new found supporters in Toronto. Keep it up Lebron and hopefully we see you in the Conference Finals. That would be the scenario if Raps can beat the Magic than they likely face Boston and the Winner of a Detroit vs Cleveland. But getting a little back to reality Lebron James has more than lived up to his hype and honestly when I first heard the name Lebron James I never thought he could match the hype but he did and continues to do so. He truly is earning his crown. I have often hinted that the Knicks could eventually steal Lebron from Cleveland some day. If I am right that was a heck of a coming attractions video at MSG last night. Just ask Spike lee he was impressed. Almost as impressed as he is by getting another mention in the Dino Nation Blog. He is the only Knick Fan I will ever like. that is right I like Spike!!!

Chris Bosh may be back vs. Washington hopefully but as I stated last night if he doesn't play vs. Wizards he will not play till the west coast trip. They need a health Chris Bosh for that road trip where Raps will be underdog in 4 of the 5 games. That is going to be a tough test and if they still remain in 5th or better after that trip you can make them a lock to finish 5th or better in my mind. But the Raptors really have not hit a stride this year and the best time to do that would be April. Ask Portland what that long win streak got them now? Not much and in the west it doesn't even buy them playoff security. Speaking of streaks the rockets keep rolling without Yao. A mature Tracy McGrady wow that is a surprise. But he still has NEVER won a playoff series. Even Cousin Vince has won a couple. T-Mac needs to get it done or no streak or amount of points will matter. If not he will be labeled a LOSER. Many Raptors fans would have no problem with that. What is the point? As Much as we live and die with the day to day of the regular season. In the end all that matters is if you get in the playoffs and what you do when you get there. That is the first step in becoming a contender understanding when it matters most and coming up with the goods in those times. Remember to listen to HOOPS on the Fan 590 it is a great show and I always call in myself and contribute to a great show with Eric Smith, Paul Jones and "THE COACH" Jack Armstrong. 7pm On Fan 590 and Raps TV.

Enough is Enough

That is what Dwyane Wade could be saying. But as far as Raptors go there is no time to worry about Miami and it's free fall to the basement. There is a 3 game losing streak to be snapped. A new player to deal with too in Shawn Marion.  Last time the Raptors and Heat hooked up was just before the Shaq trade. They also had a healthy Chris Bosh and a long a waited return of T.J Ford. Things were much more positive in Raptorland.  These days the Raptors fans are in a rage and in search of someone to blame. The number one candidate is T.J Ford. The good feelings of his return are long in the past for Raptor fans. Last night his 7 turnovers just added fuel to the fire. Sam Mitchell has also been taking heat as well. Than flying under the Radar of Raptor Fan Rage is Andrea Bargnani. In short things are bad. But this could be the last game till Chris Bosh returns and that is a very good thing. The problem is when losing happens everyone sees the warts and flaws. Winning makes things seem better than what they might actually be.

The good news is the rebounding issue was addressed by the team despite the loss last night. Same effort needs to be made tonight. The Heat are in bad shape and the Raptors must make the effort to get them to quit. The next 3 Games are very important to get the bugs out before heading to the west coast. On that trip of 5 games Raps would only be the favorite in 1 out of 5 games. If Raps can rebound and take the next 3 games they can at least head into the trip on solid footing.

The dream of getting back to the 3rd seed took a serious blow last night. Raptor fans may now end up finding themselves cheering for the Cleveland Cavs.  Why? To get the Orlando Magic in a 4 vs 5 match up. Even without home court advantage I would select the Raptors in a 7 games series vs the Magic.  I think it is the best match-up the Raptors could draw in the first round of the playoffs. 

Washington is a distant 6th place but if the Raptors do not get the ship back on course could make a run at them to get a higher seed in the playoffs. But all this talk of match-ups and all can be left for another time. I think will will end with the famous words of Al Davis Raiders owner in the NFL " Just Win Baby ". The other stuff will take care of itself.

Raptor Rewind Post Game and You can Still Join are March Madness pool Links can be found in the blogs below.