Who will be the next ex-knick to win a title?
December 30, 2007 – 8:20 pmA disturbing pattern has occurred to me over the years. Players not good enough to be Knicks have gone on to play minutes for other teams that go deep into the playoffs. Not anywhere is this more apparent than with the San Antonio Spurs. Forget Matt Carroll and Charlie Ward, although both wore Knicks jerseys before trading them in for Spurs ones. The Spurs’ signing yesterday of Demarr Johnson doesn’t even surprise me anymore when you consider what the future has had in store for some of these former Knicks. Just consider this:
DeMarr Johnson– signed yesterday with the Spurs after playing for Denver for a few years, DeMarr was cut by the Knicks.
Jackie Butler– Isiah balked when Butler asked for decent money for his services. Butler signed with the Spurs instead and rode the pine with them last year, was cut after the spurs won the 2007 NBA championship. Butler is currently not on an NBA roster.
Nazr Mohammad–traded to the Spurs for Malik Rose, Nazr started at center for the 2005 NBA Champion Spurs and played for the Pistons the following year.
Ime Udoka– Currently a San Antonio Spur. Formerly cut by the Knicks.
Matt Barnes– A key player for the revamped Warriors that knocked out the Mavs. Definitely cut by the Knicks.
Kurt Thomas– Key part of the Suns team that SHOULD HAVE BEAT the Spurs and won the title, the summer of the Horry “hip check” injustice that featured Tim Donaghy as one of the three officials that dreadful day. Thomas was sent packing from the Knicks after a feud with Stephon Marbury. The Knicks received Nate Robinson and a damaged-goods Quentin Richardson in exchange for the defensive specialist currently with the Sonics.
Tim Thomas– a member of the Phoenix Suns in 2006. played a key role against the Lakers in playoff victory. Traded to Chicago in the Eddy Curry deal, a deal that incidentally isn’t looking as good this year.
Shandon Anderson– won an NBA title with the Heat after being bought out by Isiah Thomas
Michael Doleac– despite great high screen-and-roll chemistry with Stephon Marbury, Isiah Thomas shipped Doleac off the island. Doleac washed ashore with the 2006 NBA champion Heat.
Trevor Ariza– was definitely headed for more playoff action with the Magic this year and probably still is now that he is Laker.
Antonio McDyess–injured during his tenure in New York, McDyess is still contributing quality minutes for the Detroit Pistons, consistently in the top tier of teams in the east.
Channing Frye–the blazers are the hottest team in the league having won twelve in a row.
My point is not that these players were the key to championship success–most of these players are roll players I admit–but rather that these players were singled out by this Knicks organization as factors preventing success, players that simply had to go. How can so many of these players that are perceived as losers by the knicks go on to win often immediately after departing New York? Think about it, the past four years, the ONLY knicks with any playoff battle stories are the players Isiah voted off the island.
So far this season, odds are once again looking good that another ex-knick will win an NBA title before any current knick sees a playoff series.
Just bloggin’. I am a knicks fans that is simply tired of missing the playoffs. Last year was an awful ending to a promising, exciting year. This year is a horrible beginning to a… well, put it this way: the Knicks can’t even successfully lose. Despite all the embarrasing blowouts, there are still three teams that are better than the Knicks at tanking games right now, Minnesota, Memphis and Miami. Still 50 games to go, but what exactly does a Knicks fan cheer for at this point? Either you got a 32-win season, or lots of lottery ping-pong balls and no promises of the top pick. Either way, that’s not much to cheer about right now.
71 Responses to “Who will be the next ex-knick to win a title?”
Great post Knicksdefense…good to have you back.
My money is on Antonio with the Pistons.
My sleeper is Ariza.
When are the trades for us going to start happening?
Isiah said 2 weeks!!!
By DaVonn Jefferson on Dec 30, 2007 at 8:49 pm
REPOST REPOST REPOST
Some Trade Scenarios: Please Be Advised!
Mike
Your case for Wallace makes more sense than your proposed trade for Shaq.
While I don’t think Curry may ever be the dominant force, Isiah, “Lord of the Flies,” Thomas, thinks he’ll be, I do believe he’ll be a quality NBA big with the “Proper/Right” coaching, which most certainly isn’t coaching by Zeke.
Shaq seems to be in such a state of decay. He is not in Curry’s position where he has to share the paint in a failed experiment, ala the Curry and Randolpho experiment. He is just not playing as well, call it what you will perhaps the officiaiting in the game has changed to the point where his style of play is no longer allowed.
I would rather try to trade Zach and perhaps Balkman for the following package. If not then I would consider this package. The following package is probrably more realistic. I don’t know if that is at all feasible though.
By Black and Blue on Dec 30, 2007 at 9:05 pm
Starburyfan
We miss you!
Good question,which ex-Knick?
Based on the month of December Channing Frye.
I gonna go with McDyess/Detriot also.
By D L T Knicks on Dec 30, 2007 at 9:12 pm
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/31/sports/basketball/31araton.html?ref=sports
By knicksdefense on Dec 30, 2007 at 9:23 pm
A good New Year to you KnickD
I figure the frontrunners are Ariza and McDyess.
While Frye is quickly becoming a darkhorse.
By Black and Blue on Dec 30, 2007 at 9:26 pm
WELCOME BACK BLOGZILLA! Great post as usual! Game of the Night: Celtics vs. Lakers.
Time: 10pm Where: NBA LEAGUE PASS
Intersting report to share with my Defender Familia. I jumped over to Alan’s Dust Bowl at Newsday a few moments ago and read some interesting comments from Mak and Trane regarding our Friday conversation with Joey V. Mr. Trane refered to US as the Righteous Few (or something to that affect) and actually insinuated that we treated him badly and ignored the fact that he was rasing clothes for the homeless. Now, in truth, not is not accurate nor honest. Many Defenders engaged him intellectually and honestly, and I will admit there was a little hyperbole, but if I recollect correctly, it was Joey V. that responded in a very nasty and negative way to Steady’s post, but Trane failed to mention that fact. Now, MAK, we know what to expect from him, and what is this thang he’s got with Peaceman and African and our ability to write. It is really sad these two gents have this penchant for misrepresenting what we do on Knickdefense and act like we are bunch of blind followers serving GOD ISIAH, fanatics, lunatics, hoodlums, and ignorant bruhs and sistas.
Don’t get it twisted Defenders, I’m not angry or mad or shocked for that matter. But their predilection for half-truths and their kibitzer profile is just so interesting….It takes ALL KINDS Defenders, and I just found their depictions baseless and amusing…
Keep it POPPIN!
By cooleyhigh on Dec 30, 2007 at 9:40 pm
To answer your question Blogzilla, I think it will be Treva Ariza. The Lakers are primed and built to make a serious run at the title this year. That Laker TEAM is 12 deep. Black Mambe got his wish. Sometimes you have holla, kick, and scream to get the attention of management.
By the way, DVJ, are you wearing your Black Mamba Jersey and Jock Strap? I’d love to read tonight’s game wrap-up by you…The game should a blast.
POST CORRECTION: Game is on NBATV! I apologize for the misinformation.
I’m Audi!
Keep it POPPIN!
By cooleyhigh on Dec 30, 2007 at 9:47 pm
Yooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The short shorts are back!!!!!!!!!!!
By DaVonn Jefferson on Dec 30, 2007 at 10:12 pm
You know what really bothered me or bothers me about the media hyped Knick Protest?
It’s basically that it makes a specatacle of the team, in a classless way.
I think all here know where I stand in terms of my criticism and tacit support for the things Zeke has done wrong and the things he’s done pretty decently.
And no doubt that the team is in a deep morass but why am I going to go out of my way to contribute unconstructive additional humiliation for the mere purpose of getting my name or face on the copy of tabloid sports coverage.
There’s no place for that sort of circus. That’s why I stepped away from the Fix when he went with that “wacky” label.
That is also why I am tired of the coverage by papers like the Daily News, or Post.
I want something better for the team, and it is not just limited to better coaching and player development but it extends to coverage and reporting of the team and the organization.
DVJ
You are a warrior, you get mad props for being out there bruh.
TDBank DVJ (Is that correct?)
Good to have you positive vibe here.
There’s to much negativity surrounding the Knicks and this place is an oasis of at the very least contemplative and challenging discussion as to how the teams plight might be righted and or fixed.
Good night fellas.
By Black and Blue on Dec 30, 2007 at 10:21 pm
Cooley,
MAK is a ZERO who used to talk about his lust for people to urinate
on him. Go to Berman’s archives and you will see his twisted nature.
To anger him…misspell the word “piss.”
Trane is not twisted, he’s just confused. A lot of times he posts good stuff
only to later start putting his foot in his mouth! Trane is a victim of
getting his lunch money taken too many times as a Child!( by a kid who looked like Zeke)
Time to get back to the LA game!
By Peaceman on Dec 30, 2007 at 10:31 pm
UH OH,
Ron Artest will have surgery! From Real GM!
Mak to go to Pee on me Rehab! From Sick Fix!
By Peaceman on Dec 30, 2007 at 11:05 pm
What is needed at this time is a sense of direction for the Knicks. I think when Dolan comes out and say publicly what the status is, the team will see a reversal of fortunes. let’s look at the possible scenarios as to the cause and effects of Dolan’s direction
1. IT goes:
That seems to be what the MSM is crying for and it doesn’t look like the most likely scenario. In either case, that will probably signal the playing careers of some players. JJames will be gone. Q, Milik and Marbury will likely be bought out and I don’t think any team will touch Marbury. Too much negative rep. Curry will likely be traded. The Ron Artest trade won’t happen. The team will go into full rebuilding mode.
2. IT Moves upstairs
3. IT stays as coach.
These 2, I believe will have the same effect. It will tell the players to either put up and play or be sent packing. The team can also safely tank in order to get some draft picks next year.
In any case some direction is needed.
The season can still be saved
LGK
By Jazz on Dec 30, 2007 at 11:07 pm
The Celtics are to much!!
They have to many players that can control
the game at anytime.
Nice try by the Lakers but not even the
greatness of the Mamba can bring the Lakers back
tonight.
Boston is right up there with the Spurs and the
Pistons.
I still think the Pistons will beat them in
the Eastern finals but you never know.
By DaVonn Jefferson on Dec 31, 2007 at 12:06 am
B&B - you read what I wrote to you. You can believe what you read. Or you can believe what others say about me. Your call . . . and I invite you to read everything I write. On any blog. I stand by it all. I told Joe I agreed with the criticism here (there are more important things to protest), but didn’t think it was civil or deserved. (And yes, it was righteous in the extreme.) Based on what I read, that’s supported in the threads (”hyperbole” is a euphemism, but I’ll buy it). Based on what I read he was attacked for his point of view, not for how it was presented. And no, I saw no references to the clothing drive until after I posted. I believe the only true Trolls are those who are offensive to individuals and disruptive to the site. It’s not about a point of view. It was originally developed on the Fixer site to isolate and get rid of Mark. Not because of what he believes. Because he was a cancer. Those are the Trolls. Not guys we don?t agree with.
By Trane on Dec 31, 2007 at 12:23 am
Trane, you a crack head!
By Susy on Dec 31, 2007 at 12:25 am
Cooleyhigh,
Good recon Cooleyhigh!! Very useful post. Steady had always taken a neutral stance on the veiled Trane allowing him to be dealt with by African. He was. Orange and Blue and ChuckFM are the few Defenders feeding the Trane. I engaged him neutrally once as he looked to connect on some coincidental levels. The NYKs (or a trip to Africa) just happens to be one of those coincidences. The veiled Trane inspired the concept “Veil of Hypocrates” coined here. There was an exchange between Starburyfan and Steady when it looked like Starburyfan was doing the two-step in posting here AND the old place. Statesman joined and asked if Steady “questioned the serving of two masters.” Starburyfan knows what’s good. Before the exodus, Trane ATTACKED the soon-to-be-Blogzilla when he proposed creating what this blog has become. Starburyfan is laughing now.
It was immediately clear that the veiled Trane had and continues to have a longing for the company of others. The veiled Trane is a lonely soul–a traveling consultant living in suitcases and eating solitary meals in hotel rooms. The veiled Trane wishes the whole “wacky” and F U response by Khan did not happen. That way, Trane could continue to have his comfort zone and adult exchanges with NYK fans (in furtherance of his “hobby”). PUUUHLEEEZE. The guy thinks he invented the English language and TRIES to insult one’s intelligence by appearing like he’s a good-natured, well-meaning “friend”. The veiled Trane reminds me of the suburban hip-hoppers who like the game, try to live the game, can even quote some lyrics or poetry. However, at the root of it all, the Tranes thrive on their privilege and try to use it to shape the world to their liking. W is a Trane. So is DickC. I would not quickly co-sign on anything coming from the keys of veiled Tranes. In fact, the Trane name will go down in infamy like ABS and the HOF coach–saboteurs and hypocrits. Don’t bother correcting the profile you have cloaked here–just comiserate with the company you keep or that feeds Tranes.
Trane was caught red-handed at sabotage. The community dealt with the Trane. Still, Trane did not go away or re-cloak under a different name like Markette (Could be Marzak though). Trane is crying for attention and can’t believe that those people here at KnicksDefense are NYK fans, from NY or on a blog. You can be on whatever continent there is right now Trane, a hyena can not outrun its spots. You are a hypocrit. Your call for support or to engage Joe V Lately civilly is just the next (get this Force MDs) prima facia evidence of that opinion. Joe V Lately was asked about the sense of making a clothing drive linked to trying to get someone fired from his job. Joe V Lately is a Trane whop wants to lead. According to DVJ, Joe V Lately led nothing and noone on Sunday. He may have gone to pick up his prize for his leadership and organizing talents.
In the absence of Anti-, I hereby assign the Tranes on this blog to Anti-’s Dog House. Trane posts will be skip passes out of bounds. And if there was no hypocrisy in Trane’s New Year wishes as there has been in past posts, I would be tempted to let that post stay on my court. However, I’m Steady bloggin’.
KFLL
By Steady on Dec 31, 2007 at 12:31 am
Steady, I don’t believe I’ve ever engaged Trane. Or are you saying he’s the same as Tom? I’m not sure what you’re talking about. :/
By Charles Follymacher on Dec 31, 2007 at 12:53 am
Isiah On The Firing Line
December 31, 2007 - 12:20 am
New York Post -
Isiah Thomas has made it through 2007, but even his players were wondering how long he can last in 2008 after a 100-83 loss to the Bulls yesterday.
“You can’t help but think about it,” center Eddy Curry said of Thomas’ possible firing if the team doesn’t turn it around. “We’re trying to win games. But I think it’s definitely in the back of some people’s minds.”
The Knicks put a fitting ending to the year at Madison Square Garden, falling to 8-21 in another uninspired game.
Though Curry said the players are wondering about Thomas’ future, they don’t want to see him fired.
“We’re really trying and we hope our owner knows that we’re trying,” said Curry, who came off the bench for the first time since Dec. 28, 2005 in Orlando. “We don’t believe that it’s (Thomas’) fault that we’re losing like this. We just, for whatever reason, can’t run that corner.”
By DaVonn Jefferson on Dec 31, 2007 at 12:55 am
In the absence of Anti-, I hereby assign the Tranes on this blog to Anti-’s Dog House. Trane posts will be skip passes out of bounds. And if there was no hypocrisy in Trane’s New Year wishes as there has been in past posts, I would be tempted to let that post stay on my court. However, I’m Steady bloggin’.
WriteOn!
By Susy on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:07 am
Like I said, civility is a lost art . . . but I certainly have no problem with Starburyfan and, to my knowledge, that’s mutual. (For the record, I?ve already said it was a mistake to push Mark here. But it was never meant to disrupt this site, only to show him to be the coward he is. Intention, honorable — if the method was thoughtless, I’m at least glad it never happened. As for the rest, Steady . . . irrelevant, in the extreme. It?s just too bad you don?t have something worthwhile to worry about.)
By Trane on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:10 am
ChuckFM,
Don’t sweat it. Trane is that same veiled one who engaged you about the value of MSG and the NYK as a franchise. He did an I told you so like Tom just did. I know you’ve got da skills, you can look around the topic related to NYK being rated by Forbes. You can correct me if I’m wrong. I’m fairly certain about this Trane. Like I typed, this ain’t no biggy. We have more important issues at hand here at our Knick fan community. We have to resolve the Monty in our midst.
KFLL
By Steady on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:11 am
DVJ - please tell me Eddy said “TURN the corner”, not “RUN the corner” there?
By PaulNoize on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:15 am
Susy,
A very fine DNA print. Very telling. Those would have been Anti-’s words. You’ve been around for a bit to know that signature statement.
KFLL
By Steady on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:19 am
True
By Susy on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:23 am
Orange and Blue has already made the point. You are welcome. Blogzilla is the ultimate host as you may already know. Our NYK WILL prevail.
KFLL
By Steady on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:31 am
Steady is Exhibit A. This started out about a trade for Wallace ? nothing more, nothing less - and turned into an assassination. I read a lot about ?haters? here. But I?m learning some are invested in the attack. You need a better enemy.
By Trane on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:43 am
ARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Dec 31, 2007 at 7:33 am
Lives
My sentiments exactly on your post # 27.
With regard to the topic of Trane, all I will say is that yes I have engaged the blogger under that cloak. Our interactions have been civil and respectful, and both of us have established our points of disagreements– for example: a) why I choose to believe that their is more merit in a trip to the playoffs instead of a conscession to subject the remainder of the season to the lottery; b) why I made my decision to leave the fix and why Trane stayed behind. I believe Trane’s apology to be sincere regarding the Mark incident where he tried to draw that blog cancer over hear. I also sort of understand his plea that he would like us to be more civil towards the likes of Joey V simply b/c he has a difference of opinion as to whether we should take action and join in the MSM spectacle style coverage of this current Knick season.
To that end my GTFOH directed at Joey V was more symbolic than personal. Perhaps I should have clarified it. But really if Joey V understood the tenor and nature of the bloggers at this sight and the firm principles we defend-knicks”DEFENSE”- then he wouldn’t have tried to lure us to his “protest”, a no show, with mere bobbles of fan frustration. We are already party to that but I believe most of us believe spectacles to be classles ploys by people with more power of persuasion that only works to sell cover and does nothing for constructive criticism and assessments of the teams plight.
Trane
I am diplomatic by nature simply b/c I tend to believe that the less things there are to be riled up about, the less things there are effecting your health. That doesn’t mean I’m all tie dyed, and hippyish.
By Black and Blue on Dec 31, 2007 at 9:11 am
Did anyone notice that the big travel prone center on the Bulls yesterday looked alot like a certain Knicks Blogger/Knicks Beat Writer from Newsday.
LOL!
By Black and Blue on Dec 31, 2007 at 9:22 am
Steady @#27: oooooh yeeeahhh! ok, i remember that bit now. ok. sure. right. well, whatever man. i’d forgotten all about that one. tom’s folly aside, i’m getting much better at the skip pass.
moving on (or back as it were) to the topic at hannd…. i’m goin with mcdyess.
By Charles Follymacher on Dec 31, 2007 at 9:33 am
(whoops, i meant steady @ #21)
By Charles Follymacher on Dec 31, 2007 at 9:34 am
DEE-FENDERS,
Steady, may I Co-Sign at #16, TWO-TIMES!!!
‘Trane Not’, Trane conjures Coltrane, a Genuine & Transparent individual, the antithesis of ‘Trane Not’.
‘Trane Not’–’You can fool some of the people…..
Peace & Blessings
By STATESMAN on Dec 31, 2007 at 10:51 am
A Newsday article by Ken Berger seems to suggest that it is not only Eddy Curry who is disgruntled with his recent benching in yesterdays LOSS against the Chicago Bulls.
“If you thought the players were furious with Thomas’ decision to play Stephon Marbury 34 minutes against the Clippers on Nov. 14 after he’d left the team in Phoenix, wait until you see how they respond to Curry’s benching….
Curry’s teammates have witnessed his decline and are furious about it. Imagine how angry they would’ve been yesterday if they’d heard Thomas’ postgame news conference, in which he blamed turnovers, poor guard play, missed layups, errant jumpers and everything short of Ben Wallace’s Afro for their fourth straight loss and 10th in 12 games….
But his players believe that Thomas brought the wrong guy here in Randolph. They don’t blame Randolph; he is what he is, and it’s not his fault. But eventually, someone is going to have to take the hit for ruining Curry. With every loss, with every 20-point deficit, with every new lineup and discombobulated substitution pattern, we get closer to that day.”
I wonder if all the wheeling and dealing wich the ABS HOF coach did with the Knicks lineup isn’t sort of being repeated with Thomas’ execsive trading- and mind you not merely trading for pieces that fit a complete all encompassing vision for the team but trading for pieces one, Thomas, only imagines will be able to fit on the team.
I am now officially on Aficans side with his assessment that the Z-Bo trade has done more harm than good.
But that of course is not to say that other unfortunate distractins haven’t occurred this year- Mebury’s revolt, and Thomas’s terrible coaching, management, and development of the players he has on his roster.
By Black and Blue on Dec 31, 2007 at 10:56 am
Folly, I been meaning to tell you, I went away for a while and when I came back you seemed to be more comfortable in your virtual skin and a nice contributing member to the community. I did not have the time to respond to your last comments before I skipped KD for a while, but whatever I was going to say seems unnecessary now. I’ll rely on my peeps to set me straight if I am wrong, but I see some good type coming from your keyboard.
Wht made me think of it was that I accidently clicked your name and ran into your interesting website. I really like the pics of Romo’s girls. Jessica ain’t never look so good.
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Dec 31, 2007 at 10:57 am
Good Am Defender! I am hopeful this morning finds all of you and yours well and in the best of spirits. I have never specifically written a post that engaged or responded to anything you have ever written Trane. I would always run the break wihtout the ball touching the floor and use the backboard for my layup. But, after reading you responses, it is clear why others have referred to you as veiled and your personality type ‘The Veiled Hypocrates.’
Trane, the statements presented below are your words typed by your hands. And your hyprocrisy is visble for all to see. There is certainly a differrnce between understanding in the abstract and agreement. Even a busy gent like yourself should know the difference. And yes Trane, the word Hyperbole is a less offensive synonym also known as a euphemism. I chose that word because we on Knickdefense.com often exaggerate and use colorful language for the purpose of effect.
Prima Fascia evidence is the following statement by O &B/B & B in response to your post for understanding and clarity,
“To that end my GTFOH directed at Joey V was more symbolic than personal. Perhaps I should have clarified it. But really if Joey V understood the tenor and nature of the bloggers at this sight and the firm principles we defend-knicks”DEFENSE”-then he wouldn’t have tried to lure us to his “protest”, a no show, with mere bobbles of fan frustration.”
It is clear Trane, under the guise of civility and the cloak of decency, you do not always render what you claim to require, and that’s okay Trane, because none of us are perfect or flawless, and we too don’t always embrace the Golden Rule in every situation. We’re ALL HUMAN! But understand clearly Trane, many on this THREAD see through the expansive vocabulary, the expensive suit, shirt, tie, the polished shoes, the Burberry overcoat, and the multiple stamps on your passport. There are many here that can make a similar pronouncement (a transitive or intransitive verb, but you knew that Trane); Defenders like Steady, Peaceman, African, O & B, Blogzilla, BRONX, MODI, LIVES, Anti, Harlem, Post-Up, Folly, Barf, DVJ, Jay Bee, and a host of other Defenders are not defined by their vocabulary or wardrobe or by the means in which they earn their Daily Bread. Those things do not define WHO WE ARE, they are just what we do and what we have been blessed to acquire. So Trane, if your looking for civility, honest and respectful exchange, leave the sarcasism, haughty, and counterfeit behavior over on Alan’s Blog. You are always welcome here Trane as long as you keep it real. That’s BLOGZILLA’S WAY! Just remember Trane, most DEFENDERS can detect when a poster is faking right, but going left. In BLOGZILLA’S HOUSE, that shot gets blocked everytime…Have a pleasant New Year Trane and be careful wherever you are.
Trane in his own words on Alan’s Blog:
“At the same time, I certainly understand – in the abstract - some of the criticism Joe met with on Defenders. I won’t be protesting Sunday, and not only because I’m on another continent. There already aren’t enough minutes in the day to do the work I have, which includes a heavy slate of pro bono jobs. Blogging is amusement. But a protest is too time-consuming for something as trivial as sports. But I’m glad Joe married his protest to a clothing drive (something the Defenders conveniently ignored).”
Joe - you didn’t deserve the attacks. But you must have known you would raise the ire of the righteous (who didn’t seem too concerned about a conflict with social issues when there was talk of a counter-protest - oops). I hope we’ll always welcome all opinions here. With civility, and respect. Joe certainly wasn’t shown a lot of either.”
Trane on Knickdefense.com:
“B&B - you read what I wrote to you. You can believe what you read. Or you can believe what others say about me. Your call . . . and I invite you to read everything I write. On any blog. I stand by it all. I told Joe I agreed with the criticism here (there are more important things to protest), but didn’t think it was civil or deserved. (And yes, it was righteous in the extreme.) Based on what I read, that’s supported in the threads (”hyperbole” is a euphemism, but I’ll buy it). Based on what I read he was attacked for his point of view, not for how it was presented. And no, I saw no references to the clothing drive until after I posted. I believe the only true Trolls are those who are offensive to individuals and disruptive to the site.”
Defenders you know COOLEYHIGH got nothin but LOVE for his Defender Family. Enjoy the day and keep it real Defenders!
“To thine own self be true, and to no other be false.”
Keep it POPPIN
By cooleyhigh on Dec 31, 2007 at 11:14 am
Bruised O&B is preaching the truth. I feel bad about wanting Zeke gone and writing negatively about Steph, but this situation remains unnecessary and unacceptable. I may be sending you IT’s e-mail address which I believe I have so you guys can give him a piece of my mind. HaHaHaHa. I know I have his assistant’s address somewhere around here.
Bullheaded. Chicago Bullheaded.
All those “Chicago” Boys (Zeke, Aquirre, Chandler, Q, Curry, Crawford) in NYC and they can’t get it together. Zeke has lost his team. Time to let go since you refuse to do better. What the hell are Williams, Hanners and Malone telling this cat. Stop kisses Zekes azz. He’s not firing anybody. I think there is a Garden Moratorium on firing employees. (LOL)
I apologize guys, but if something good doesn’t happen, I’m gonna have to find a new non-paying extra-curricular or extra-professional activity. My sister, a die hard Bulls fan, just left from her holiday visit to Chi-town. Yesterday I had to send her butt downstairs to watch the game. She got on my last nerve. Die Hard. And she useta run what ws known as the PUSH Classic for Jessie Jackson, so she has rubbed shoulders (more like their knee to her head) with these guys (Zeke, Magic, Oakley, etc.). Whatever. She would not let it go and was going to come on KD and talk trash until she read how sad we sounded. She concluded we already knew what the real deal was and it was no need to rub it in.
I love my sis to death.
Hey Cooley, I am glad you had so much fun with the family. They’re the beginning and the end. I know you were the host with the most. What did you guys cook?
I am so disappointed, the only thing keepin’ me in the discussion mix is my respect for the Defenders. Otherwise, I really would find something else to waste my emotional and intellectual energy on until IT steps aside physically or mentally steps up. We are standing in front of a six game losing streak starting with San Antonio. Crazy. Just Crazy.
HAPPY NEW YEARS DEFENDERS.
PEACE & BLESSINGS
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Dec 31, 2007 at 11:15 am
COOLEYHIGH IS VERY SPECIAL.
My love to you and all the Defenders. I wish you a better team to experience in ‘08.
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Dec 31, 2007 at 11:21 am
Welcome Susy. Happy New Team Year.
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Dec 31, 2007 at 11:25 am
Google Alert - new york knicks Mon 12/31/2007 2:52 AM
FREE THROWS: A new year, and new life for old foes
Sunday’s NBA Capsules
A Crowd Is Present; Accountability Is Not
Marbury misses another Knicks game
Gordon scores 25 as Bulls rout Knicks
By Syd on Dec 31, 2007 at 11:32 am
Happy New Year Defenders. Let’s hope that our team get their shit in order for 2008, even if it means tank the current season.
Reading your posts, and my admiration for this blog remains constant. Good stuff. Still decontaminating the house, despite the constant threat of bugs. WriteOn.
Cooley, I’m still here. Still a Knicks Fan for life. Will take these beatings with pride. I will never submit to “Toby”.
African, you stay one step ahead. When Zach was putting up good numbers, you said we need to get rid of him. Respect.
What’s up Steady. Diggin yo’ style bruh. Keep doing whacha do. Take no prisoners.
Still believing in the IT, the GM. As coach, he is having too many Pistons flashbacks with this 3-guard lineup. I’ve said it since August: we need a conventional lineup. More Balk/jeffries/Chandler, less Nate/Jones/Q. He is stubborn and a survivor. Got to admire that.
Again, have a happy and prosperous 2008. Peace.
By HarleminMD on Dec 31, 2007 at 12:07 pm
DEE-FENDERS,they saying the team would be better w/o Zach? Would Curry be in shape, rebound, or play D, if Zach was not here. And while Eddy was
The PLAYERS w/ their ‘It’s not my fault mentality’, are attempting to throw Zeke under the bus to cover for their own short-comings. I wrote in
a post the other day that they would attempt to protect their reputations as opposed to BALLING. This is what losers do.
Yes, Isiah has made many mistakes, but he is not the reason for Curry being out of shape and not rebounding, Q having a horrible year,
Crawful not playing D, and taking wild shots,and N8 being N8. These guys are living up to their losers’s reputation. Let’s point
fingers instead of saying ‘I’ve F&CKED UP ALL YEAR.
It appears that now Zach is the culprit. What a bunch of Bi-atches!! Zach is a black hole, but Zach comes to play every game. He has
short-coming on the defensive side, but this does not stop him from rebounding. As I read the Zach vs. Curry post, I asked myself, ‘Are
in this funk, who would play inside w/ Lee? Would you want Lee battling Bigs by himself? If Zach was not here, would Q hit the uncontested 3.
Two years ago, (Q’s 1st year here), Zach was not around and Q’s shooting was just as bad as lthis year. Would Crawful take better shots w/o Zach?
His track record says HELL NO. I am sure there is someone amongst us who would argue differently. W/o Zach would Steph have his issues, yes he would. Zach being a newcomer is not one of the boyz. Unfortunately these guys were really impressed w/ 33 WINS last year. Last year is being used as
a point of reference. Wow!! Isiah is not the only one playing Monty at the Garden. The blow-outs have hinted, and now this confirms to me
that this team does not have the mental toughness to compete w/ other professional teams.
What the ‘Throw Isiah Under the Bus Losers’ do not realize is that when Isiah leaves, a new GM will come in and DISCARD their azzes as well. They
will be here JUST a few months longer then Isiah. Other Malik as a role player, none of these guys have done Jack anywhere.
Steph, not much, Q one year w/ Suns, and before that w/ Clips, Jamal & Eddy. Isiah has built a HOUSE ON SINKING SAND!!
Peace & Blessings
By STATESMAN on Dec 31, 2007 at 12:17 pm
I see no contradiction between the two quotes, and stand by my description here of what I said there. Hence, no duplicity or deceit. You know what, though . . . life?s too short.
See you at Brooks Bros. NOT.
By Trane on Dec 31, 2007 at 12:18 pm
Lives, thanks. I don’t think I’ve actually changed much myself (i think it’s more that you guys are finally used to me, like that annoying tv jingle you find yourself humming after sufficient exposure. y’all know whuts good: i’m harmless to Defenders, poisonous to trolls), but whatever it is, I do feel pretty comfy. This is my Knicks bloggin home, i don’t stray.
Re my site, it’s really not much more’n an online scrapbook of sorts. I’ll prolly pay more attention to it in the new year once I’ve cleaned a few projects off my plate.
Anywayz, things aren’t lookin good for the home team. It’s the cycle of things. Boston/New England seems to be the centre of the sports world these days. This is their time in the sun. This, like all things, will pass. Just wish it were sooner than later.
Now that I’m getting accustomed to the zeke/dolan show, i don’t think there’s anything much for me to do now than to suck on a serenity prayer and hold on for dear life. This too shall pass, this too shall pass.
May all your efforts come to fruition in the new year my brothers!
By Charles Follymacher on Dec 31, 2007 at 12:55 pm
Force MDs (Harlem, Bronx, Modi, Cooleyhigh)–
We’re giving away salty nuts–leave them on the jet plane. Was not sure we’d see them back this way again. Salty nuts don’t go well with Remy, Henny and the Crown. Dr. Harlem, “Pass da Courvoisier” and they can fuhgetabout “Toby”.
Lives,
Here I was thinking we had a 3-card Monty. By your count, it looks like we have a 6-card Monty. No wonder we can’t get a solid lineup. Could you use your connects and have somebody read the NBA script to tell us what’s good on the Megamillion? I’d rather conjure thoughts on way we can lose if that’s going to be the script in 2008. So far, Monty is not showing the aptitude of a playoff coach. Re: the ChuckFM non-response, I co-sign based on the body of work. You may have let a skip pass go out of bounds with his veiled insinuation that Steady, BARF, African, Statesman and you were temporarily absent and possibly due to some mild protest. When you came back and reported on the Lives way with the young fellas, shaping their minds, etc., ChuckFM retuned his receptors and expressed his mea culpa. Noone called out his Folly. He retuned his frequency on his own. He has even defended the community in the absence of African and Anti- (the Gatekeepers). He has even exchanged in friendly banter with African. ChuckFM is serious about his bloggin’ experience and contributes usefully to our community. Just bloggin’.
Cooleyhigh,
Great profile my brother–true and true. I’m rearranging to make 118 a definite. Hopefully we can see a miracle on 7th Street. Looks like the Force MDs should be in full effect.
KFLL
By Steady on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:11 pm
re zach vs curry, i have moved from thinking african was on another planet to finally understanding how the argument made sense from the standpoint of disrupting the reasonably successful chemistry they had developed last january. i looked at the numbers and i cannot lie, there was something there last year.
however, that team, while poised to grow stronger, still wasn’t built to go deep into the playoffs as it was tho. so zeke fooled around and messed with the chemistry/rhythm and traded away frye, who was doing well as a rook (check those early jan scoreboards, yo). it was a mistake to disrupt that, tho i don’t think you could fault zeke too much — who knew that keeping essentially the same team and bringing in a 20-10 guy would create this much disruption?
on paper, you tend to think this move can be successful. but it all depends on if you can get these heads to get with the program. i think zeke has/had an inflated view of his ability to motivate/coach this gaggle of soft heads.
from the point of view of where to go NOW, i’m really wary of trading away zach to keep curry b/c the whole scheme depends on the other guys getting their heads right to play the way they used to. is there a coach out there that can put these humpty-dumpties back together again? was last year’s 5,6 week stretch a perfect storm fluke thing? can one guy really f*ck things up this much if there really was a solid foundation there? i reeeally doubt zach’s the culprit.
so for me the choice boils down to building around a set of soft heads who can crap out any time (cept Lee) vs. building with a guy, who for all his faults, is a clear and consistent net positive on the court and a true warrior. i’m takin the safer bet.
By Charles Follymacher on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:24 pm
Defenders: Happy New Year. May the new year bring us a more competitive
and energetic team. KFL
By Post - up Prince on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:32 pm
Happy New Year’s mi hermanos…both old and new contributors, ya’ll have been great. When I think of how bad the Knicks current season is, what makes it easier to stomach is knowing there are a strong collective of free thinkers communing and sharing in the times…both good and bad.
Great 2007…Lets make it a better 08.
By BARF on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:39 pm
Trane, I figured you would not and could not… And, you’re absolutely right Trane, life is usually too short for the conflicted… By the way, you’re right again about see you at Brooks Bros.Not I prefer to have my THREADS Tailor-Made; There’s something about ORIGINALITY that gets my juices flowing…Plus I LOOK GOOD
You see what I mean John Q, I’m always FALLING SHORT…Please pray for me
Have a good year Trane and ALL the best to you and yours in 2008… Isn’t civility a wonderful thing!
Harlem, you have NYC running through your veins and you cut your teeth on those mean streets…TOBY, never..
LIVES, you too, so you know what’s good for your HEAD and your HEART. Each and every one of you DEFENDERS are SPECIAL to me. Ladies and gents, you’ve heard me say this here before, I am striving daily to live in a State of Constant INEFFABILITY…Steady As It Goes, you know what’s good…An intellectual Charlie Salami or an astute Joe Bag-A-Doughnuts can always spot a Tony Bologna.
Lastly, the Celtics are the TRUTH; Doc’s got these guys committed to Defense and playing together as a TEAM. To be undefeated in back to back games is impressive, despite the weakness in their schedule early on. Like Parcell’s use to say, you’ve got to play the team that takes the field, so you play to win…The Pistons and the Celtics are the CREAM of the CROP in the Eastern Conference. If they should meet in the Eastern Finals and each TEAM is Healthy, I’d try to make it my business to see one of those games up close and personal, because there will be some BBALLING GOING ON…
At this juncture, I will retract my Pre-Season Prediction about the Celtics and humbly admit, “I WAS VERY WRONG…”
MEA MAXIMUS CULPA!
I’ll check back in on you Defenders later.
Keep it POPPIN!
By cooleyhigh on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:43 pm
Steady, I’m sure Lives was referring to a big, long point-counterpoint exchange we were having over somethingortheother a while back. And I wasn’t doing a “veiled insinuation” i asked straight out, point blank if they were protesting. i was used to more frequent interaction from them so when we went a good stretch w/o any, i wondered out loud. no harm, no foul.
I’ve been doing that from, like, the first week i’ve been here. it’s not new. keep tryina tell you.
I don’t hate the guy. I’ve been scratchin my head wondering why he had such a seeming hateon for me. lookit, i’m a counter-puncher. i try to give at least as good as i get, but i don’t try to “start” stuff other than (respectfully) stating a counterpoint. but, after my clear beginning, i guess i didn’t stay “with the program” enough and i guess some folk wondered about my true colors. fair enough. i’m just bein me. i’ve never been great with respecting group dynamics, but people get it after a while. i’m glad my body of work has eased concern in that department. this is a good community. i intend to stay a part of it.
By Charles Follymacher on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:45 pm
oh, and my point remains…
yes, i agree with af about using zach in a trade…but its more a move to get back to what we had last year and building around it than it is that i think that the team is “better without zach”.
i stand by my comment that the team is a “bunch of bitches” and have let the media coverage affect their work on the court. yes, zach was not “the perfect addition” to the team but the rest of the team lacked the identity or the professionalism to be able to absorb a talent like zbo’s.
the trade brought over arguably the best player on the roster and it turned out to be a “bad thing”…
yes the coach is to blame because he doesn’t use his one advantage (depth) and the gm is to blame because he disrupted the chemistry (from a lowly 33 win season) but the players have really dropped the ball.
wide open shots, no resiliency, bitch votes, AWOL and a spiteful local media…passing the buck, admitting confusion and openly questioning coaching decisions…
such a lame 07 for the Knicks.
good luck, Zeke. I think you need it.
Enjoy the day guys!!
By BARF on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:51 pm
BARF,
Mi hermano serio–Prospero Ano de salud y prosperidad.
I co-sign on fiddy above. The fellas all turned into ABS.
When in doubt, you go with what ya know! This should not be all so dramatic but it is the NBA.
KFLL
By Steady on Dec 31, 2007 at 1:58 pm
Steady, a most prosperous next year to you my brother.
Artest Faces Elbow Surgery, Leaving Kings Further Depleted
SACRAMENTO, Calif., Dec. 30 (AP) –Sacramento’s Ron Artest could face possible surgery this week to remove chipped bone fragments in his right elbow, a team spokesman said.
Artest missed his second straight game Sunday against the Phoenix Suns. The Kings are 2-8 without him in the lineup, and went winless in their four-game homestand.
He is averaging 19.1 points, 6.1 rebounds and 4.3 assists in 19 games this season. An eight-year veteran, Artest missed the first seven games this season while serving a suspension. He also didn’t play in a Nov. 21 game in Phoenix because he was visiting his ailing daughter.
The shorthanded Kings have also been without leading scorer Kevin Martin (strained groin) for the last 12 games, and injured point guard Mike Bibby has yet to play this season.
By BARF on Dec 31, 2007 at 2:24 pm
Warriors need a point guard to spell Davis down the road
The Warriors, once again, are in need of a reserve point guard now that they’ve learned Troy Hudson is possibly out for the season after unavoidable hip surgery.
In Hudson, the Warriors hoped to address one of their notable weaknesses — a backup for starting point guard Baron Davis, who has a history of injury and is playing a lot of minutes already this season. That need has suddenly resurfaced now that Hudson is expected to go under the knife in the coming days.
So, how can the Warriors refill this hole?
By BARF on Dec 31, 2007 at 2:27 pm
Will Isiah start dealing with the open-minded Stefanski?
Sixers’ Stefanski begins to make mark
PORTLAND, Ore. - This is Eddie Stefanski’s 76ers debut. The honeymoon is over. Never mind all the handshakes, all the meetings with the players, the coaches, the chairman, the marketing staff, the public and community relations staffs. This, trading Kyle Korver to the Utah Jazz for the expiring contract of guard Gordan Giricek and a future first-round draft choice, is his first true stamp on the franchise.
Never mind that Stefanski isn’t thinking that way at all.
“I just feel like I was doing my job,” he was saying before yesterday’s 97-72 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.
On the surface, Stefanski appears to have done marvelously well. If he chooses not to re-sign Giricek, he can have roughly $10 million of salary-cap space this summer, an asset with which he will have some real flexibility to wheel and deal in the free-agency and trade markets. At this point, no NBA team has more potential space.
The draft choice becomes viable starting in 2009 and can be used at any time through 2014, with different levels of protection during each of those seasons. The pick is not the one the Jazz acquired from the New York Knicks; it essentially will fall somewhere between No. 16 and No. 30.
The salaries were an easy match, with Giricek at $4 million and Korver at $4.4 million. The Jazz is now responsible for the two remaining guaranteed seasons on Korver’s contract: $4,781,818 and $5,163,636; he can opt out of the final season.
Stefanski has made no commitment to Giricek, either in terms of a possible new deal or in playing time.
“Going forward, we’ll both know if [Giricek] is a guy we want to keep,” he said.
He also said, “We have to do more things, to add more pieces to the puzzle . . . How much more we do depends on how we’re playing and how much interest other teams have.”
The Sixers, after a struggling start, had won 8 of 11 overall and four of five on the road when the deal went down Saturday.
“I’m all ears,” Stefanski said. “We do have chips people like.”
By BARF on Dec 31, 2007 at 2:33 pm
Wait, wait, wait….are we talking about getting rid of Zach?
If so, I hope you guys can give me some trade scenarios.
Why is Zach the problem here?
Why do we not get rid of Curry?
Are you kidding me?
By DaVonn Jefferson on Dec 31, 2007 at 2:34 pm
Happy New Year fellow long time sufferers. Have a happy and healthy celebration this evening (and watch out for 5-0 if you have to drive).
Cooley I’m prayin’ for ya man. (#48) lol.
By JohnQ on Dec 31, 2007 at 2:43 pm
DVJ, I think the point is, although Curry’s contract is easier to move, Zach would yield more in return…AND…we already know what the Knicks roster plays like without Zach.
So do you trade the only center we have (who is also underperforming and lessening his trade value) for scraps or do you trade the consistent PF (on a team with more PF’s) who’s value is largely unchanged?
I’m thinking we need bodies. Zach will get us bodies (hopefully to fill needs) in return. Curry won’t get us much…look around at the league and tell me which team’s could use him. Now, look at their rosters and tell me who you want want back and would fill our needs.
I think if you like at the league and their rosters like this you will see that more teams could use Zach as opposed to Curry.
Now if we could move Zach for a piece that complements Curry the trade is not a waste.
Now whether or not our GM is thinking along those lines…I doubt it. Happy New Year DVJ
‘Impatient’ Wallace in no rush to break up faltering Griz
No one envisioned an 8-21 start to the Wallace/Marc Iavaroni Era. Even so, Wallace said the organization will remain grounded and avoid knee-jerk moves in chase of a quick fix.
“I don’t feel pressured or compelled to make a deal,” Wallace said. “When you’re in that frame of mind, you make mistakes. We like our talent. … I’m at heart an impatient guy. But there’s a process.
“I’ve been through difficult times. The most important part of getting through this is everybody staying together. … Under no circumstances can you become desperate. You’re going to end up in a more difficult spot than you are already in. I don’t want to push a panic button. We haven’t seen this team together for a long period of time. It would be premature for us to say who this team is.”
Wallace referred to injuries to 7-footers Pau Gasol and Darko Milicic and rookie point guard Mike Conley. Each has missed several games because of their respective ailments.
By BARF on Dec 31, 2007 at 2:45 pm
After reading these comments, I change my mind AFRICAN. Curry’s weak.
“We’ll keep moving in this direction
Has it been two weeks already?
Almost.
Isiah Thomas sidestepped a tough question two weeks ago, noting it would be fair to ask whether something needed to be done to address his status as head coach if the Knicks did not improve over the next couple of weeks. They are 1-4 since then.
So the question was alertly raised yesterday after practice.
“We’ll keep moving in this direction,” Thomas said.
And what direction is that?
“Me as the coach,” Thomas said.
I know a lot of us were thinking south right before the actual answer was offered.
Really, it’s not a surprise to find out that Knicks president Isiah Thomas has no intentions of dumping Knicks coach Isiah Thomas, but it’s a good way to check the man’s resolve.
He isn’t walking away from the sidelines and heading back upstairs to orchestrate the rebuilding from the front office.
Knicks owner James Dolan is going to have to fire Thomas, who’s failed to inspire. And with an 8-21 record, the players know there are not a lot of alternatives left.
Maybe a blockbuster trade?
It seems like something needs to happen. Nothing else has worked.
“We’ve tried everything. We’re trying to get wins,” Zach Randolph said. “He’s doing the best he can. It’s up and down. It’s frustrating, but he’s doing the best he can.”
Eddy Curry believes the status of Thomas is in the back of everyone’s mind.
“It’s not in the back of my mind,” Randolph said. “It really ain’t. I don’t know. It might be on some guys’ minds, but I just want to win and do the best we can do. We can’t give in. It’s too early.”
Jamal Crawford acknowledged the questions about the future of Thomas are unavoidable.
“When you hear it everywhere you go that’s difficult,” he said. “But me personally, seeing how he keeps us prepared, I know that it’s not him.”
On the injury front, Crawford believes he’ll be ready for Wednesday’s game against Sacramento. He did not scrimmage yesterday, but was shooting with a padded glove on a bruised right hand. Crawford swears he connected on 42 of 45 attempts.
Layups?
“No,” he said. “Mid-range. Just inside the arc.”
Curry was defending.
Bad joke. Sorry.
Stephon Marbury went the distance in practice. He still isn’t allowed to speak with the media. That might happen on Wendesday postgame. Thomas is letting Marbury decide whether to play or not, depending on his emotional state.
The conditioning is still a work in progress.
“He looked good,” Thomas said. “He got winded a couple of times. But the good thing about these kinds of athletes is they’re able to bounce back quickly.”
Curry was on the receiving end of a verbal shot from Thomas, who responded to the centerpiece saying there’s nothing he can do about the decision to bring him off the bench.
“If anything, I’ve shown I’m going to try to play the best people,” Thomas said. “The people who play the best, that’s who you want to play. Now to his credit, he did come in and have a good game yesterday. He had 12 points and eight rebounds. It shows me, while he may not like the bench, it definitely had an effect on his rebounding effort. If he continues to rebound, then the minutes are there.
“From that position, we need rebounding and some shot blocking. And if you can’t get the shot blocking, then you definitely need the rebounding. But you can’t get 16 points and two rebounds. That doesn’t work.”
No argument here.
By BARF on Dec 31, 2007 at 3:13 pm
BARF
It’s impossible to argue with your points. You make perfect sense in that theory.
I don’t know if we should trade Zach man.
What do we need that he can get us?
The elements I think we lack are
a) perimeter defense
b) consistant outside shooting
c) leader on offense (PG)
d) down low defense
a) Artest takes care of our first problem
b) maybe we can get an outside shooter with that zach trade
c) We can take care of that in the draft this year
d) maybe we can get a down low defender in the Zach trade as well.
So let’s start putting together some trade scenarios shall we?
Let’s not forget that we need a coach before anything!!!
By DaVonn Jefferson on Dec 31, 2007 at 3:13 pm
Curry’s rightfully being singled out.
He’s got to be the one to step it up.
Next experiment is seeing if Steph’s return will help.
Lives, next, I’d like to see JCraw off the bench. If they can play the season out and make a run…then I’ll be looking forward to the off season and all the changes that it could bring.
By BARF on Dec 31, 2007 at 3:21 pm
I’m finding it difficult because I don’t know if teams would want Zach or not.
I see a trade with Philly that would work.
A trade with Atlanta that would work.
But I don’t know if they would trade for Zach.
By DaVonn Jefferson on Dec 31, 2007 at 3:22 pm
Checking in. Atlanta’s riding higher than in recent times so I doubt that they would move anyone we would want.
Stay strong defenders. We are struggling and suffering but this can’t continue for much longer.
I’m not much of one for coveting OTP but we’re still coming up short. However, before any trade could be made, we have to find out what we have.
The kids must play!!
By Jay Bee on Dec 31, 2007 at 3:49 pm
DVJ, after reading all the Curry comments and wondering how he can be confused about his role…it really bothers me.
His flaws are far from secret and reading his comments (unless they have been irresponsibly reported, which, of course, is a possibility) he seems to not understand what his problem is. That, is a problem.
Still, Zach would yield more in a trade.
If you trade Curry, can you possibly think you’ll get enough in return to complement Zach and Co?
But if you trade Zach (after his positive few month run in NYC)… I think we could get enough of a package in return to bring this team back to where they were last year and better…
How funny would it be if Zach is traded and the only piece left is FJones. I dont know man. I’d prefer to run the season out and give the reigns to Stephon (as per Jimmy on COSELLOUT) and look forward to dealing the expiring contracts for younger, healthier bodies.
By BARF on Dec 31, 2007 at 4:00 pm
DVJ, yeah I dont know either….not for sure at least. But within the right system and team concept, there’s no doubt in my mind that Zach is useful. You put him out there with a strong point guard…and a strong SF like Artest…with a center playing close to the rim who can get up there and block shots…
Andre Miller
Green, Young
Iguodola’ll make you Holla (Clyde)
Zach
Dalembert
Would be interesting…but what would we get back in return?
There are teams out there that could use…or restructure their team around Zach…
Memphis:
Stoudemire/Conley
Miller
Gay
Zach
Gasol
…I don’t know for sure. Its more important to think about getting some NEEDS back in return for a player like Zach, who could help someone down low.
But we definitely need some two way (meaning ALL STARS or LEADERS) in return.
Um, Charlotte traded their number…6 (?) pick for JRich. That’s the kind of deal that we need.
Trade the upcoming draft pick (which by the looks of it should be high) in return for a player who’s experienced…a leader…plays both ways…
and is redundant on his current team’s roster.
Anyone out there like that?
By BARF on Dec 31, 2007 at 4:07 pm
For Sonics’ West, clouds are clearing
Delonte West, sitting on the bench waiting for his prickly plantar fasciitis to heal in his right foot, didn’t get any more comfortable watching teammates Earl Watson and Luke Ridnour shine, at times, in the position.
“It’s not like you’ve got a vet and you’re bringing in a rookie and there’s a pecking order,” said West, who’ll play off the bench again tonight when the Sonics (9-21) host Philadelphia. “You have three quality guards that have all started and proven their worth in this league. It being my contract year, I had a lot on my mind that I had to just put aside and play.”
West, who was acquired in the draft-day trade of Ray Allen in June, started 125 games in three seasons with Boston. He was expected to be a key contributor for Seattle after a short evaluation process during training camp, but injuries kept him out of the rotation.
By BARF on Dec 31, 2007 at 4:18 pm
Trading Zach vice Curry would spell disaster!!
I know people are thinking that eliminating Zach would automatically make Curry revert to last season’s form…
I think not.
Too much has happened since last season.
I’ve never been a big fan of Zach, but he’s just what this team needs…..someone with a “warrior” mentality
I believe if he’s playing for a coach he truly respects and in a system conducive to his abilities, he could and would be more of a team player. But considering the current state of the Knicks and him being as competitive as he is, he feels the need to try to do too much.
I for one can work with that.
Curry, with all his subliminal bulshit, “I wonder how much longer coach is gonna be around” bullshit, is tryna play a game cause he wants Zeke, the man that took a chance on him and his suspect “heart”, literally and figuratively, gone soonest.
He’s a big, fat, unmotivated baby that’s content to just tread water.
Again, I’ve never really been a fan of Zach, but he’s definitely the lesser of the two evils.
I can live with his ills.
By bronxboy in Md on Dec 31, 2007 at 4:54 pm
Good stuff fellas.
Steady, thanks for the recap at #44. I’m kinda glad that I haven’t been able to catch up with my reading.
I also wish I had time to do a year in review. I think enough happened that we could use a year in review. It’s been a pretty good year: Built up and tore down the FI’s spot; Fixed the New Day and got Brokeback so we broke off; Established A settlement of Defenders at the home of Starburyfan/Anonymous/Blogzilla/KnickDefense; made lots of friends; killed trolls coming from under MSM bridges; led a protest against “wacky” disrespect and won some customer service; watched the Knickerbockers turn to Knickerslackers in front of the Coach?GM who made them rich; Saw Dolan just serve mad ego to the fans and the maddening MSM; laughed, cried and nearly died and so much more.
BARF, your reasoning and analysis are always top of the line. At this minute, I am feeling you guys on Marbury mainly because Zeke has no idea how to solve the human issues beyond the court. I note that one of the reports of players miffed that Curry is sitting before Zach indicates that Zeke is losing but trying not to lose his players. Remember that half-ass reasoning from Zeke about starting Curry in Orlando because he wanted to see the team that jelled together last year. That sounds like some players making excuses and can’t get along garbage. And how can he tell us that he played the best players against Chicago. He’s punch drunk, but I co-sign on everyone’s assessment of the bitching-losing Knickerslackers. They need to jjoin a crying contest, because they give more effort whining than they do on the court.
So what the hell, Marbury-Jones start. But please not Marbury-Crawford. But we know Zeke and he doesn’t have the guts.
Curry is a “put bad word here.” THe mutherfuther is a nice guy, but how do you all of a sudden get eight rebounds in less minutes than you usually get five? How do you claim there is nothing you can do to get your ass off the bench when you have had every chance to stay in the starting lineup? And I’m not buying that Zach-Curry is a failed experiment? You need to go back and look at the games where they both got double doubles. I don’t mean the score, I mean the games. It has potential, but the players failed period. For this to work under these conditions Zach and Eddie would have had to be committed early in the summer like the newbloods were? Curry is a wus. He can play this game. He could be the man. Howard is a one dimensional beast with more effort than talent. Shaq is a shell of himself and his strategy of work my body, work my body into shape during the season has caught up with the old man. Ben Wallace ain’t diddly but a defender. Who else is left to play center in this Conference?
I think anybody who blames Zach for Curry’s shortcoming has lost their mind. I know not every player can play together, but why should Curry be given the post all to himself? And if he could or would rebound couldn’t he like anticipate where Zach’s shots are falling short and hustle a little for offensive boards. I mean God, don’t you remember the days of the reboundingd centers who would throw these mean outlet passes to the guards.
I have no simpathy for Curry because his effort in the CHicago game shows that he is a liar. He has not been trying his best. Where are his parents. They need to talk to his azz. But for now he needs to be a sixth man. He would be one of the best sixth weapons in recent (the past week) history.
I’m co-signing on most of States comments at #41 and almost anything BARF types today unless you are so advised. I need something to drink. Hey force MDs send some of that REMY my way please. I want to be like the Knicks — funked-up on New Years.
We are facing a funkin’ six game losing streak assuming the we cna beat an Artest-less Sacramento. You gotta be kidding me.
But you want to here some funny shyte? I am still praying for a fairytale (not as in Brokeback stories) ending to this drama. Steph becomes Starbury, gets focused and becomes the number one scoring option, taking over the team; Curry works his way back into the starting line-up by the post-season and there is a post season. The lineup of Steph-Jones-Jeffries-ZBo-Lee startles the league after running off a 8 game winning streak starting against Phil on Jan 25th and another long one beginning on February 19th. Yeah it’s funny, (a comment meant only for true Defenders and I will ignore the trolls) but I am a believer. (Note that I am crazy but not a fool).
Later folks.
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Dec 31, 2007 at 4:57 pm
Steady, I talked to my source about the 2008 Megamillions section in the NBA script and I was advised that there was a writer’s strike and those pages have yet to be completed. I hope to get a copy of the Final Draft before the end of the season. I did hear about a secret meeting between Charles Dolan and Stern where they spoke about a deal giving NY the Number 1 and sending Jimmy to Charm School in exchange.
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Dec 31, 2007 at 5:16 pm
@ Lives…
“I think anybody who blames Zach for Curry’s shortcoming has lost their mind.”
Thank you very much, brother.
By bronxboy in Md on Dec 31, 2007 at 5:18 pm
Passin’ the Remy to my brother from another mother, Lives…..
By bronxboy in Md on Dec 31, 2007 at 5:19 pm
happy new year to all the kings of the f’in hill
By barf on Jan 1, 2008 at 12:03 am