NBA stuff - talk Raptors and other teams

[asif9t9]

Mo won't get booed. You only get booed if it was your decision to leave TO.

With Yi, it's not that the Chinese government wants him in a big market to make money off him. They want him to play on a team where he'll improve and make a name for himself. On the Bucks, he'll play behind Villanueva and just be a project. But the Chinese want him to be ready for the Olympics in Beijing. They'd rather he not even be in the NBA and practice with them than rot on the bench like Darko ended up doing.

Interesting how Yi is featured on the front page of the Bucks website.

[dr1ft3r]

Nice project for ex-raptor asistant coach jim todd who is with the bucks now. his specialty is coaching big men.

[cyberscorpi0]

http://media.collegepublisher.com/media/paper851/stills/42f738d4e3c46-93-1.jpg



Maceo Baston Lands Back in Toronto

The Raptors announced Tuesday they have signed forward Maceo Baston to a two-year contract.

The restricted free agent signed in Toronto after the Indiana Pacers did not match the offer sheet signed by Baston and the Raptors on July 11th.

Mike Ulmer was at Tuesday's press conference and reports back on how Baston is feeling to be back in Toronto and some old friends that are also new teammates.

[asif9t9]

The talk about Baston reminds me of the all the Leaf talk about 4th line players and minor leaguers. This guy is a 6'10" PF. At C, he's behind Bargnani and Rasho. At PF, he's behind CB and Jorge. Obviously during the year, there are matchups and injuries. But this guy is probably not the difference maker. Besides, he played in the NBA last year with Indiana and showed nothing, whereas Anthony Parker made a name for himself with defense and 3pt shooting.

[Caz]

I think it could be a good pick up.
I agree he isn't the difference maker but he is team oriented which is what the Raptors are going for. He gives the team more depth up front.

[ptwonline]

Where guys like this come into play is if there are injuries or specific matchup problems.

However, he seems to fulfill a similar role as Kris Humphries: extra big man off the bench that can provide some energy. I wonder if this means that they are trying to package Humphries off to somewhere else, since almost $2M/season is not really what you want to pay guys to sit and do nothing.

[Alan]

Apparently there are BIG RUMOURS coming out that the Celtics have acquired KG from the T-Wolves for Big Al Jefferson, Ratliff's expiring, Rondo and more pieces.
(a few sources for this info as well --> Al Jefferson's buddy posts on the Celtics board on RealGM website, who relayed this info out, and which is also being reported by some more news outlets
http://msn.foxsports.com/nba/story/7073708

Going to be a lot of parity in the Atlantic this year.

[asif9t9]

ESPN is just saying that talks have been resurrected. If this happens, Boston becomes a favourite right away.

On the other hand, is Boston giving up enough? Jefferson and Rondo? Ratliff is just salary cap filler.

[ptwonline]

ESPN is just saying that talks have been resurrected. If this happens, Boston becomes a favourite right away.

On the other hand, is Boston giving up enough? Jefferson and Rondo? Ratliff is just salary cap filler.

Two young players (one of them pretty good) and a large expiring contract are not bad. It's not like the old days where you traded assets for assets. Now salary cap flexibility is critical because it allows you to sign free agents. Having someone else take one of your big, inadvisable contract usually costs your team a first round pick in the mid-late teens.

Getting KG would make the Ray Allen trade make much more sense, since Allen likely has only a couple of top years left before a rapid decline.

[Alan]

Having someone else take one of your big, inadvisable contract usually costs your team a first round pick in the mid-late teens.

Getting KG would make the Ray Allen trade make much more sense, since Allen likely has only a couple of top years left before a rapid decline.

I completely agree with you. For example, remember when Embry traded a semi-productive Jalen Rose PLUS a first rounder (albeit a late pick though) for the expiring contract of Craptonio Davis?!

Seeing as it's not complete yet, if I was Minny, I'd force the Celts to take the bad contract of Troy Hudson as well.
Maybe a trade like KG, Hudson for Big Al, Ratliff, Rondo plus GERALD GREEN and a protected 1st rounder or something?

[asif9t9]

Looks like I was right. Jefferson AND Gerald Green. Rondo wasn't enough. Telfair and Ratliff are just filler. I think Jefferson and Green are TWO solid young players, who Minny can use to convince fans they got something in return (unlike Zo and the Williamssssessss).

[sp3GT]

I just read on yahoo, that the trade might not happen because KG might not want to play in Boston.

But if it does it will be crazy with Pierce, Allen and KG.

[asif9t9]

KG didn't want to play in Boston back duing the last trade deadline. But he must want to play now, with Pierce AND Allen. When the Wolves had three good players (Cassell and Sprewell), they were a 60-win team.

[Tokic_o]

KG nd boston....if it works out then the Atlantic Division is going to shape up as one competitve one.....with the raptors, nets, and celtics...i'd like to see the next season asap haha

[WLS ZMZM]

KG heading to Boston... yikes... pierce and allan and KG... it seems the celtics will now be pulling away from the rest of the division.. look out folks this one is going to be interesting!!

[cyberscorpi0]

It's official:

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h149/cyberscorpi0/Boston.jpg


Aug 1, 2007 10:35am ET

Celtics Acquire Kevin Garnett

In USA TODAY, Howard Ulman reports “Kevin Garnett gives Boston a new Big Three that brings the Celtics much closer to what their old Big Three delivered — an NBA title. The Celtics, who have 16 championships but have gone without one for more than two decades, obtained the former MVP and 10-time All-Star on Tuesday in a 7-for-1 deal — the NBA's biggest trade for one player. Boston sent the Timberwolves Al Jefferson, Ryan Gomes, Gerald Green, Sebastian Telfair and Theo Ratliff, two first-round draft picks and cash considerations.”

[asif9t9]

Two young players (one of them pretty good) and a large expiring contract are not bad. It's not like the old days where you traded assets for assets. Now salary cap flexibility is critical because it allows you to sign free agents. Having someone else take one of your big, inadvisable contract usually costs your team a first round pick in the mid-late teens.

Getting KG would make the Ray Allen trade make much more sense, since Allen likely has only a couple of top years left before a rapid decline.

Still think Jefferson and Rondo were enough?

[ptwonline]

Still think Jefferson and Rondo were enough?

Well, I never expected it to be KG for those two players alone. There had to be some filler to match salaries, Ratliff's expiring contract was pretty much a given, and also some draft picks.

The T-Wolves got a lot of players, but aside from Jefferson they aren't all that great. However, with that many young players one of them might come through to be a decent NBA player. I'm guessing it will be Gomes, not Green.

Rondo would have been better than Telfair since the T-Wolves need a future PG pretty badly, and Telfair isn't very good.

Two first round picks sounds steep, but in the NBA a lot--and I mean a LOT--of 1st round picks end up as busts because of the small rosters and high competition for those few spots. Typically anything in the teens and beyond is a complete crapshoot, and sometimes even in the top-10 picks it is that way.

This deal actually puts Minnesota in a much better position than they had before. Ratliff's expiring contract plus a couple of other expiring contracts will leave them room to re-sign young players or to bring in some more established talent through free agency in a couple of years. And assuming one of those other young players plus Jefferson works out, that's 2 young players they will have plus a couple of extra draft picks.

Meanwhile, Boston has about a 2-year window in which to win. Maybe 3 if Allen doesn't drop off too much. However, with so much money tied up in 3 players they will pretty much have bottom-of-the-barrel players making up most of the rest of their roster and an injury to one of their big 3 could pretty much finish their chances.

[asif9t9]

Our only hope in the Atlantic is if Rondo doesn't have the PG skills to lead his team. But he did look good last year, as a playmaker. He can't shoot, but he won't need to. I can't imagine one of KG, Allen or Pierce (who's damn good on his own) always being left open.

[ptwonline]

Our only hope in the Atlantic is if Rondo doesn't have the PG skills to lead his team. But he did look good last year, as a playmaker. He can't shoot, but he won't need to. I can't imagine one of KG, Allen or Pierce (who's damn good on his own) always being left open.

Well, they are getting a lot of hype, but remember that there is still only one ball, and having 3 great offensive players means that one or maybe all of them may get underutilized. The same reason the Spurs have Ginobilli coming off the bench instead of starting.

Also consider that come playoff time, matchups are critical. Boston will have 2 pretty big holes in their line-up (PG and C) and their bench will be weak. That will be very exploitable especially by deep teams like Toronto and Chicago.

Boston got a LOT better, but it's not exactly automatic.

[BiG-ED]

^ exactly
look what happened to denver when AI arrived, they went into the shitter cuz they couldnt all be superstars with the rock. its a time will tell kind of deal

[Caz]

I totally agree, there is a huge drop off after the big 3. They will have to find a Bruce Bowen style PG and a Center that only wants to rebound because there isn't enough ball to go around. The key for the Celtics is to find quality roll players that just play and keep their mouths shut.

[dr1ft3r]

Mon Dec. 31 Raptors @ Hornets. First game against MoPete
Sun Mar. 30/08 Hornets @ Raptors. First game back at toronto for MoPete.
http://www.nba.com/schedules/?team=raptors

[bluntman]

Geez, I think this guy should have stayed a Raptor...

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2994735

[dr1ft3r]

Gameday! Go Raps!

[chinsterr]

Going to the home opening tonight with gf --- sporting two bosh jerseys :)

They better WIN !!!!!!!!!!!

[dr1ft3r]

If Bosh can stay healthy...its gona be a good season.

[chinsterr]

I think Boston is way over-hyped. The bookies have them taking the whole thing !

Kobe leaving lakers?

Man, the teams this year look quite different.

[FLIPDADY]

50 win season!!

I think the Raps have a lot of confidence going into this season. After all they'll be defending their Atlantic Division title.

As long as everyone stays healthy we should be in great shape.

[sauga_kid]

+1 on the "As long as everyone stays healthy" Bosh worries me, being one of the conerstones of the franchise, the knee can't be an issue or the team has to ride on Bargnani and not too sure if he's ready for that yet, but we'll see...LET'S GO RAPTORS!

[asif9t9]

Don't let the injury thing worry you. Bottom line is you can say that phrase about any team and any player. Watch TJ get injured, and then Jose can't handle the starting role, and then Darrick Martin finish the year as our starting PG on the way to a lottery pick.......haha

But seriously, we have a good team. We should role through the year. And then it all comes down to the playoffs. Playoff wise, we are not improved over last year. We needed Mo to stop Vince (games 5 and 6), but now Mo is gone. Kapono would never be able to stop Vince. Delfino...not sure. Hopefully we can win just playing "our game".

[sauga_kid]

Forget that, if Darrick Martin (A.K.A. The Dancepack Reserve) becomes our star PG, I'll officially give up being a Raps fan, lol. True enough we have a decent team but be real, Mo Pete (A.K.A. Black Eye P a la rumors of STD) didn't really stop Vince, Vince just didn't feel like playing as he sometimes does ie. last few years in T.O. Nonetheless, I'm looking forward to the year despite how far we end up making it in the playoffs (but we will make it!)

[dr1ft3r]

Good start to the season! VC is next.

[chinsterr]

awesome game !

AND I caught a free t-shirt ... "Go Red, Go Raptors!"

[asif9t9]

I hope they're not still giving away NJ Net red shirts. That was embarassing.

But a good win. I like how Sam can put in so many different lineups and eventually find one that works. CB sat for the last 6min.

[rsquared]

awesome game !

AND I caught a free t-shirt ... "Go Red, Go Raptors!"

Were you sitting in Sprite Zone?

[dr1ft3r]

Its gonna be tough for sam to find the right rotation...

CB sat because his conditioning is still not up to par due to minor injuries in the preseason. Not because he played poorly. Even though he had a good game.

[chinsterr]

Were you sitting in Sprite Zone?

sect 321, near the back

seats were mehhhhhhh ---- probably the worst I've ever had , but I got to say that the atmosphere made up for that.

[cyberscorpi0]

Salami & Cheese Baby!

Great 1st, 2nd and 3rd Quarter game. And the Ilmago 4 points play was Priceless!

[chinsterr]

And the Ilmago 4 points play was Priceless!


Yup, it really got the crowd going again and definitely a clutch play for the raps.

[WLS ZMZM]

nicely done... the Dino's looked good last night.... great start to win the home opener!! LETS GO RAPS!!

[dr1ft3r]

Raps/Nets on raptorsTV! GO RAPS!

[monkeyboy]

i need to get raps tv lol but it's being subscribed by my dad so i need to convince him to get it lol

guess is down to fan 590

[sauga_kid]

One problem that I have with Raps TV, if any of you have HD, why the hell doesn't Raps TV broadcast in HD? Unless its being fed from a US station, say like ESPN, Raps TV HD isn't HD...boo on them.

[chinsterr]

I have Raptors TV and it is NOT HD althought it is on a HD channel :(

very very disappointing

[cyberscorpi0]

OH MY BOSH!

That 3 point shot from Downtown IZOD center New Jersey was Awesome!!!

[dr1ft3r]

We're killin it! almost up by 40 in the fourth!!

[Tokic_o]

NOOOOO!! We were so close!...damn ray allen, but wow that was an entertaining game

[dr1ft3r]

Can't feel that bad after the way they played in the first half. tough loss though.

[Tokic_o]

hearbreaking, especially after TJ Ford's shot mangg

[chinsterr]

No one was covering Ray Allen the whole night ! ><

[thr33scompany]

No one was covering Ray Allen the whole night ! ><

**Wakes up from the dead**

That's not true.. juan dixon/delfino/parker were all over Ray Allen .. and he's just that good to make shots.. sure the raps had a bad shooting night..but just think.. the raps still had a chance to win the game in the end. so yeah it sux the raps didn't pull out a win but you gotta feel good about the overall effort.... even if the raps are playing bad.. they still have a chance to win the game.. on the other hand.. if the leafs are playing bad.. they lose 7-1 or something.. lol.

GO RAPS GO!!!

[chinsterr]

**Wakes up from the dead**

That's not true.. juan dixon/delfino/parker were all over Ray Allen .. and he's just that good to make shots.. sure the raps had a bad shooting night..but just think.. the raps still had a chance to win the game in the end. so yeah it sux the raps didn't pull out a win but you gotta feel good about the overall effort.... even if the raps are playing bad.. they still have a chance to win the game.. on the other hand.. if the leafs are playing bad.. they lose 7-1 or something.. lol.

GO RAPS GO!!!

Well said.

Ray Allen did have the hot hand yesterday, even when someone was in his face.

It was expected that Boston would fade near the end of the game, esp. when they ran all 3-stars almost the whole time. But you got to admit, KG outclassed Bosh in OT for sure --- Bosh is still learning :)

[WLS ZMZM]

while there shooting was atrocious last night there defense was really good... you can't complain when you lose a game with less then 3 seconds on the board... just too bad that bargnani and bosh had such a rough first half.... these two really make the difference!!

[thr33scompany]

Well said.

Ray Allen did have the hot hand yesterday, even when someone was in his face.

It was expected that Boston would fade near the end of the game, esp. when they ran all 3-stars almost the whole time. But you got to admit, KG outclassed Bosh in OT for sure --- Bosh is still learning :)

I do admit that KG had Bosh's number in OT...Bosh had 3 lessons in a row on how to score in the post. Each move was different. As for the last play of th game.. It's hard enough to guard against a team with one all star in the dying seconds of a game.. but to have 3 (all-star) options on the floor to win the game??? damn..Can't be mad.. It was a very exciting game..

Don

[WLS ZMZM]

the raps just need to take that loss with a grain of salt, they played a good game against a team with 3 all-stars, so there is really nothing to be ashamed about... besides.... they showed that they aren't going to be a roll over to defend their title... and they are most definitely a better team then last year.. so they are going to make it interesting... I say GO RAPS GO!!

[Tokic_o]

^^^ True, the Raptors did play well and I believe we will have an even better chance against the Celtics next time. Anyways, out with the old in with the new. Tomorrow we get our first look against Yi!

[dr1ft3r]

But you got to admit, KG outclassed Bosh in OT for sure --- Bosh is still learning :)
I have to disagree. It's not that bosh is still learning...KG will outclass almost anyone in the world on his worst day. Bosh held his own


I do admit that KG had Bosh's number in OT...Bosh had 3 lessons in a row on how to score in the post. Each move was different.

In those three moves bosh had 5 fouls so he couldn't defend agressively.

[chinsterr]

I do admit that KG had Bosh's number in OT...Bosh had 3 lessons in a row on how to score in the post. Each move was different.



In those three moves bosh had 5 fouls so he couldn't defend agressively.

KG also had 5 fouls too , so it can be said that he wasn't really playing aggressive either.

[dr1ft3r]

What do you guys make of YI? I think Bosh and barngiani will eat him up. A loss to the bucks will be a total letdown.

[chinsterr]

What do you guys make of YI? I think Bosh and barngiani will eat him up. A loss to the bucks will be a total letdown.

Over-hype and will probably run into foul trouble early !

He is no Yao, at the moment --- which means no threat.

Averaging 26pts in the ChineseBA = 6pts in the NBA (or less).

[Tokic_o]

Yea I think Yi has quite a long way to go in terms of his growth as a NBA player. But I must admit he has showed potential in his last game against the Bulls with 16pts and 6rebounds IIRC. If we lose to the bucks that would be dissapointing.

[chinsterr]

Yea I think Yi has quite a long way to go in terms of his growth as a NBA player. But I must admit he has showed potential in his last game against the Bulls with 16pts and 6rebounds IIRC. If we lose to the bucks that would be dissapointing.

but the bulls haven't been themselves lately... and this is weird, because everyone seemed to have high hopes for them.

LOL it is typical for the raptors to lose to some of the worst teams in the league and then beat some of the best --- reasons why I never bet with/against the raps.

[asif9t9]

Yo, I was at the game on Sunday afternoon, sitting near the hallway where the players run in and out of the court (Sec 117). At the end of the game, Paul Pierce tosses his headband into the crowd and it whizzed right over my head. I was like, DAMN! Then....his wristband came flying at me, right into my hand. All sweaty. Wicked. It has stitched on it, "34 The Truth". That's his nickname, for anyone that doesn't know. So cool. But I need to wash it. lol Made up for not getting any pizza (they reached 95 pts. if they went into a second OT, it would have been pizza for sure).

Regarding tonight, this a big game, because it comes off a loss. Great teams win those next games. No doubt Jim Todd, the Raps old assistant coach, would have some ideas on how to stop the Raps. Plus, they get to watch the Boston game to see exactly how Boston got us off our game. Does Smitch have his own plan? Do we just hope our shots fall tonight?

[Tokic_o]

lol i hope we don't just HOPE that our shots fall. Moreover, open shots created by our gaurds.

[asif9t9]

Hey, listen to Smitch's explanation for why we lost. "We didn' shoot da ball!"

That simply means, "we weren't hitting out shots". Smitch is a stats guy, though he doesn't admit it. Basically, the team usually hits 45% or whatever, but in this game they hit 36%. Smitch figures they just need to do the same thing, but this time, a few more shots will fall and we'll win.

I understand his theory. Basically, always play your game. And if you play your game, you'll win more times than not. But that kills us in the playoffs, or if the other team takes time to prepare. They stop "our game" and the guys are left not knowing what to do.

[chinsterr]

... I don't know what to say ...

[cyberscorpi0]

What the HELL Happen?!?!

Bosh only 1 pt?

Mason perfect 10 of 10 shooting!

[dr1ft3r]

Boy was i wrong about Yi.

[chinsterr]

Boy was i wrong about Yi.

I think we all were

[sauga_kid]

Turnovers, enough said!

[cyberscorpi0]

Hope the Raps wake-up from this Nightmare! We'll see what's up tonight (vs Magics) . . .

[Tokic_o]

May i say, inconsistent? damn they better get things straight tonight!

[chinsterr]

LOL it is typical for the raptors to lose to some of the worst teams in the league and then beat some of the best --- reasons why I never bet with/against the raps.

I rest my case !

[chinsterr]

I hope no one watched that game ...

YIKES, 3-game loosing streak --- there goes the rap's confidence !

[Tokic_o]

The strategy of Sam Mitchell, I will never understand! Why in the world does he take off Calderon when he was the PG who lead the whole comeback and randomly put Ford back in? Not like Ford wasn't good, but he has been sitting for a while and Calderon was performing well. Its not like Calderon did anything wrong. Mitchell is getting on my nerves, his strategy is not working and he clearly made a big mistake by replacing Calderon which caused the Raptors to lose right away.

[sauga_kid]

Totally agree, Mitchell has been getting on my nerves for the longest time. Winning coach of the year doesn't help any either, I don't think he deserved it at all. The teams success had more to do with the players and the team that Colangelo built and not his coaching, he's been doing these stupid line chages for the longest time with no rhyme or reason. It always kills me that he'll take the guy with the hot hand off! He needs to go!

[cyberscorpi0]

This should be the new starting line-up (in my opinion):

Center: Nesterovic
PF: Bosh
SF: Delfino
SG: Parker
PG: Ford

Bargnani needs to come-off the bench to re-energize the team and Kapono needs to see the Big picture before shooting the hell out of the Ball game.

[WLS ZMZM]

I agree with you scropio.... that starting lineup makes the most sense.... Bargnani is not ready to be in the starting 5.... We need Nesterovic's experience....

[ptwonline]

Bargnani is being put into the starting line-up because let's face it: that is the future. It hurts the Raps now, but hopefully will pay dividends for years to come.

Rasho has not played well the past couple of games either. The Raps really needed a pick-me-up with Bosh and Bargnani struggling early in games, but Rasho wasn't able to give it.

Calderon really should have been in at the end of last night's game vs the Magic, but Ford is the future too and so I guess Mitchell wants him to learn to handle those end of game situations. Sometimes he has done quite well. Sometimes he doesn't. We tend to remember the ones where he hasn't.

The rotation is still a work in progress. I don't think Mitchell is really sure of the best way to rotate Kapono, Delfino, Humphries, Nesterovic, and Garbajosa yet. Once he gets that down and a more standard rotation is set, I think the Raps will be a lot better. Last year they didn't really get it down until the end of December.

Garbajosa and Parker really need to pick their games up.

As for Mitchell being COTY...don't forget, he is the one that got a group of mediocre (overall), unknown players to play strong team ball and succeed far beyond what they were expected to do. It's getting the players to buy into that team concept and having that work that got him the COTY.

[sauga_kid]

True enough when you say that a group of mediocre players played strong team ball, but I believe that minus Mitchell, they still would have played well with one another. All the credit should go to Colangelo for forming such a great team and seeing their potential (as he did in forming the suns). If anything, inserting a knowledgable coach who understands rotation and utilizing your hot players and your franchise players, would have advanced the Raps further.

[Tokic_o]

I Totally agree with Sauga_Kid, I really think Mitchell needs to reconsider his substitution strategy. I was watching the game through FSN and even the commentators never understood Mitchell's last minute move which resulted in our loss.

[ptwonline]

Anyway, I suspect that either Kapono or Bargnani will go to the bench for Delfino or Rasho, respectively. This should balance out the offense a bit. I think what happens when you have so many shooters on the floor is that everyone wants their shots and takes them instead of keeping the ball moving.

Notice how the ball is staying on the perimeter the past couple of games? As Mitchell says, perimeter shots should come from the inside out, meaning you work inside to create shots outside. The Raps have gotten away from that and right now just come to the arc and bomb away. Hopefully that will improve as Bosh gets healthier and bargnani gets better in te post

[WLS ZMZM]

I really think you throw any half witted coach into mitchell's position and he'd be able to coach the raptors, from what I know... you should always go with the hot hand, and only when it gets cold do you make the change, kills the pace of the game...!! Mitchell has his moments of glory, but let's be realistic, if it wasn't for Colangelo we wouldn't have signed players like Delfino, or Ford, I mean think back to before last year when Colangelo pulled the trigger for Ford... everyone was trying to figure out what was going on and why were giving up on Villanueva.. and now the man is considered Genius the team we have is in part to Colangelo being as great a GM as he is.. he built the suns and he will build the Raps....

[dr1ft3r]

It's still early. Sam is still trying to find the right rotation.

[chinsterr]

It's still early. Sam is still trying to find the right rotation.

Its just the beginning of the season !!!!

Need I remind everyone of Dallas AND Phoenix both loosing their first 6 games of the season last year ?

[dr1ft3r]

Its just the beginning of the season !!!!

Need I remind everyone of Dallas AND Phoenix both loosing their first 6 games of the season last year ?

what did i say?

[chinsterr]

what did i say?

oops , i forgot "+1"

:)

[dr1ft3r]

oops , i forgot "+1"

:)

lol we're on the same team dude. Go Raps!

[chinsterr]

AP and Bosh .. CLUTCH !!!!!!

[cyberscorpi0]

Talk about a Wild Card. Jamario Moon has been my best player in the last 2 games. Hope he continues his productive ways (Defense=points+rebound) in the Utah-Jazz game.

http://www.nba.com/media/act_jamario_moon.jpg

[WLS ZMZM]

good game last night.... the raptors were firing on all cylinders... and were really looking good as a team!! ONIONS BABY ONIONS!!!!

[Tokic_o]

lol i hope Moon continues to play as he is. We really broke the game open in the 2nd half. good game!

[Tokic_o]

On the topic of the Raptors and the NBA, anyone see VC roll his ankle yesterday? I found it quite comedic:
http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/sp/getty/75/fullj.getty-76075474nb020_celtics_nets.jpg
Note: Pierce stands there smirking at the ground:chuckle

He got an extension this offseason....deja vu?
http://www.nba.com/media/raptors/carter_170_021102.jpg
http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20071111/capt.2d8776e194aa4c8e854ad86c397725f7.celtics_nets _basketball___era106.jpg

On a side note, someone told me it looks like he was smiling/laughing in this pic:
http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20071111/capt.151e1efe30ab482b8dea447d9d4f2c59.celtics_nets _carter_hurt_basketball_era105.jpg


PS. I hope noone finds any offense in these comments + pics :)

[WLS ZMZM]

all I will say is BOOOOOO Carters a bum!!

[cyberscorpi0]

"Tokic_o" great compilation Bro!

I call that injury "VINTAGE VC"

[dr1ft3r]

:bang
What was TJ thinking that last paly?

[asif9t9]

I thought maybe that was the play, but Smitch said in the presser that he was surprised our guys (ie. TJ) wanted to jack a three with 17sec left. I mean, with all those players covering TJ, weren't Kapono or Parker open?

Andrea sucked tonight. I'm so scared this guy will be a one dimensional scorer.

[Tokic_o]

i'm speechless. Totally dissapointed in TJ Ford's decision on his last shot. He had time and shooters around him so why would he try to shoot eventhough he tried 2 times already and wasn't able to shoot? C'mon I know he was confident after his last 3 but he was way overdoing it.

[Kevin@nextmod]

What a boring game. Seriously i almost fell asleep. I hope fridays game won't be like this or i'm going to flip out as i paid so much to watch it.

[sauga_kid]

Once again, way too many turnovers kills us

[WLS ZMZM]

ouch that was a rough one the game went back and forth, but was really boring the Raps really need to stop turning over the ball so much that really seems to be there issue so far and its a CONSTANT one... and the Celtics just to continue to breeze through their opponents

[asif9t9]

The problem are the missed open shots, especially by Andrea and CB. And then there are the forced shots, where Delfino or Kapono try to create their own shots with slowmotion crossovers. The Raps almost always hit shots where a guy receives a pass and goes up for the shot. No dribble. No thinking. Just shoot.

[cyberscorpi0]

Great Game tonight vs Pacers.

Parker got everybody going with that Downtown 3point shot (with few seconds left in the closing 3rd).

Glad Mitchell stayed with Calderon in last few minutes in the 4th.

Go Raps Go!

[Tokic_o]

I wonder if Mitchell stuck with Calderon at the end becuase of pressure from the fans. Some reason I think thats the main reason, either way i'm glad of the results!

[sauga_kid]

That was an alright game, not very exciting though. CB had a quiet 20+ points, definite highlight was Parker's 3 point shot from 3/4 of court length. Wasn't as exciting as the Boston/Heat game, right down to the wire. Wifey was at the game and she said people were ready to tall it a game when the Heat tied it all up, but guess all games can't be exciting. Anyways, chalk another win up for the Raps!

[Kevin@nextmod]

I was at the game today.....freakin awesome game.... exciting..... That shot from parker was truely for sure a highlight... Everyone was so pumped up... My first raptors game at front row... can hear there plays and see ther faces in person.

[dr1ft3r]

how much did you pay for front row? curious.

[dr1ft3r]

We need rasho bad lol

[asif9t9]

We could not have expected to beat Dallas going into last night's game. But it hurt to see us squander such a big lead. I don't blame anyone in particular. It's our transition D which keeps killing us. Other teams are always just pushing the ball up the court for easy buckets.

[Tokic_o]

The Raptors played great ball for 2 quarters and slept the other 2. Sad how we always lose to Dallas.

[dr1ft3r]

Thats more like it. raptors win! raptors win! bosh 20 and 19

[Tokic_o]

What a grind it out game. Glad we won. lol you could tell they were so tired they were dying just running up the court :chuckle

[asif9t9]

Hate to say anything after a loss, but Memphis, who usually averages 106pts/game, missed so many WIDE OPEN three pointers.

No doubt though, when both CB and Andrea play well, we'll win.

[sauga_kid]

Dayum, that's more like it, CB was a man on a mission (or he just couldn't wait for his turkey, either way). Back to 500, a little break then we have to take on the Man Child and the Cavs and the running Bulls, hopefully we can pick up at least one if not both.

[dr1ft3r]

Sucks about Garbo. Hope he comes back strong next season. Maybe even in time for the playoffs.

[Tokic_o]

I'm in love with Calderon! lol I hope Mitchell continues to give him minutes even when ford is back :) Hope nothing serious with Bosh's injury =/

[cyberscorpi0]

http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/sp/getty/ee/fullj.getty-76075785rb013_toronto_rapto.jpg

Jamario Flies in
NBA.com Rookie Rankings

Jamario Moon's hot start to the 2007-08 season isn't going unnoticed. Jamario finds himself ranked second behind Kevin Durant in NBA.com's Rookie Rankings. Bryan Colangelo spoke to NBA.com about the rising rook and how the Raptors unearthed a gem in Moon.

[Tokic_o]

Did anyone notice when Moon dunked last night he jumped around a lot like a monkey? :chuckle. Hes a great player! I love his intensity. Compared to Graham(when he returned last night) I wish Graham would play like Moon and be as aggressive.

[asif9t9]

Did anyone notice when Moon dunked last night he jumped around a lot like a monkey? :chuckle. Hes a great player! I love his intensity. Compared to Graham(when he returned last night) I wish Graham would play like Moon and be as aggressive.

I can't believe you just said that.

[Tokic_o]

I don't understand? lol why you think I'm biased against Joey or something?

[dr1ft3r]

I think about the monkey part :chuckle


Goin to the game tomorow!!

[Tokic_o]

wow nice! what tickets you get?

[dr1ft3r]

baseline prime sect 113.

i hope bosh and bargs play. lol

[Tokic_o]

wow very nice! how much?

[dr1ft3r]

150 on the ticket but i got it for season ticket holder price.

[Nick]

went to the game yesterday...yay, free pizza today! i hope Jamario Moon gets rookie of the year! =]

[chinsterr]

going to the game also

bargs is going to play

I just hope bosh and lebron play !!!!!!

[dr1ft3r]

Nice. Ford should be back too. What section chinster?

[chinsterr]

Nice. Ford should be back too. What section chinster?

306 row 3 ..

GF suprised me with them. Not the best seats, but im sure we'll have a good time :)

[sauga_kid]

I'm pretty sure Bosh is a no go for tonight, hopefully they have enough fire to pick up the W. Enjoy the game, haven't been out to one yet this season, first one next week, get to see Dirk and Terry when they come to town.

[dr1ft3r]

I'm pretty sure Bosh is a no go for tonight, hopefully they have enough fire to pick up the W. Enjoy the game, haven't been out to one yet this season, first one next week, get to see Dirk and Terry when they come to town.

Delfino killed it! a tip for you Sauga kid, when you see the beachballs come, grab it and dont let go. lol i just batted away $750. guy infront of me grabbed it :bang

[cyberscorpi0]

No CB4!
No Little Engine!
No Ilmago!

NO PROBLEM!
(Great game last night vs. Bobcats.)

[asif9t9]

You could tell when that game started that they'd win. One of those games where all shots were falling. Amazing since they didn't have any go to guy under the hoop. It seems almost pointless when they'd post up their "big", which last night was Hump and Rasho. But those guys did well, basically trying a couple of steps before kicking out. When CB and AB get the ball down low, they feel so much pressure to have to score. Almost like they decide they're going to shoot before they make their move. It's better to take what the defense gives you.

[Tokic_o]

What an entertaining game to watch last night! Calderon is on fire, I really like his game and how controlled he is. Looking forward to the Pheonix game lol hope CB4 is back.

[asif9t9]

Word on the Fan 590 that both Bosh and Bargnani are confirmed out for the Phoenix game. I guess TJ is a gametime decision, which basically means that even if he plays, he won't be much more useful than DMart.

[cyberscorpi0]

JAMARIO MOON'S NICK NAME POLL:

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h149/cyberscorpi0/Jamario2.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h149/cyberscorpi0/Jamario.jpg (http://www.nba.com/raptors/)

[S.F.W.]

I like the name I saw in the Star, Jamario Speed Wagon

[Tokic_o]

^^^ lol mazdaSpeed loving :chuckle

[S.F.W.]

actually the name comes from the old rock band REO Speedwagon..

[dj_chinaman2097]

I'm not into basketball, but I went to my first Raptors game tonight against Steve Nash and the Phoenix Suns. The Raps weren't aggresive on defense or fast enough to keep up. Barbosa was always left open for 3s.

It was an ok experience. By the way, Section 118, row 4...FREE!

[Tokic_o]

We score 120 and we lose. Only Nash does that to us :chuckle

[cyberscorpi0]

The Raps lost the game, but the effort was there. It was a positive outcome for TJ though.

It will be a tough game tomorrow against the BIG 3.

[cyberscorpi0]

You gotta love it when Chuck brings out the "Salami & Cheese" with 4:20 in the 4th. Great game against Rockets today.

Welcome back CB4!

My 3 star version for the RAPS:
-Humpries (1 Star)
-Delfino (2 Stars)
-Bosh (3 Stars)

[asif9t9]

I'm afraid the Moon might have come back down to earth.

Good on Sam for getting Moon outta there quickly. Props to Rasho and Hump. They were better against the slower Yao, than they were against KG.

Now the only issue is TJ. He's started to get frustrating.

[Tokic_o]

Welcome back CB4!! He played great for us and gave us the win after 2 miserable losses.

I personally prefer Calderon over Ford, becuase Calderon is more controlled. Although I udnerstand Mitchell thinks TJ has a lot of potential and Calderon is at his peak, TJ has his "ego" spurts in the game that really ruin the Raptors.

[cyberscorpi0]

http://www.nationalpost.com/sports/161361.bin?size=404x272

Video
http://img.youtube.com/vi/JEjIKgpM7Qc/default.jpg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEjIKgpM7Qc)

Stupid foul from an idiot player like Atlanta's Al Horford should be banned in the NBA.

TJ Ford was my best player for tonights game. Hope the little engine's OK.

[S.F.W.]

I don't think Horford is an idiot player. It was a hard foul, he didn't want to hurt TJ.

[RallyPlaya]

Yeah Hope the Guys Ok, Sam Mitchel Was Literally In Tears, Calderon Gotta Step IT Up Now

[sauga_kid]

We got Dirk tonight, what are people calling with TJ out? Hope its a good game, gonna be the first for me this season.

[Tokic_o]

Although Al Harford might not have purposly hit Ford like that, I still think that was horrible judgement on his part. He had zero to no chance of a clean block on Ford at that moment, so if he was going to foul, just bearhug the guy! IMO that was really uncalled for. Hope all is fine with Ford.

[cyberscorpi0]

I can sum-up tonights game against Dallas in 1 word, "REVENGE".

My 3 star players for tonights game:
J. Calderon (1 Star)
C. Bosh (2 Stars)
K. Humphries (3 Stars)

[asif9t9]

Hump had to be the first star.

I was at the game, and the turning point was definitely when DMart stole the ball from Dirk and went in and got flagrantly fouled. Big play at the end of the third Q.

[cyberscorpi0]

Hump had to be the first star.

I was at the game, and the turning point was definitely when DMart stole the ball from Dirk and went in and got flagrantly fouled. Big play at the end of the third Q.
I with you with Hump Bro. My interpretation with the stars rating was the more stars awarded, the better. Therefore, I will correct myself:

1st star = K. Humphries
2nd star = C. Bosh
3rd star = J. Calderon

[cyberscorpi0]

Toronto vs. Indiana

Raps played awful in the 1st half, but they fought really hard in the 3rd and 4th quarter. Mainly due to:

1st Star - J.Kapono (Career High 29 Pts)
2nd Star - K.Humpries
3rd Star - Bosh/Calderon

Go Raps Go!

[RallyPlaya]

I Love the Raps Cities Best Team Jamario Moon Should Go For the Dunk Competition @ The All star Game

[Tokic_o]

too bad the raptors have been dissapointing these last few games out. hope they recover after their 5 day break!

[asif9t9]

Agreed. What a depressing way to go into a break. Losses to teams we should have beat, in Portland and especially Seattle.

[dr1ft3r]

Raptors bench owned the champs!!

[cyberscorpi0]

The Raps are back in the "W" column. Hopefully, TJ will be ready soon. Jose is an awesome PG, but he also need a breather. Dixon is not a real PG, some times He's ON and more often He's OFF.

[asif9t9]

Funny how there's been no activity in this thread since December. Raps have been really bad lately. One of those "average" teams. Even last nght's game wasn't pretty. If we play like that against teams better than the Sixers (most teams), we'd lose.

[cyberscorpi0]

Funny how there's been no activity in this thread since December. Raps have been really bad lately. One of those "average" teams. Even last nght's game wasn't pretty. If we play like that against teams better than the Sixers (most teams), we'd lose.

Losing has a lot of influence on the posting.

I use to post consistently when they were winning. But nobody really wants to talk about Raptors losing.

[lamerking]

I'm going to the Raptors-Pistons game on Tuesday....hopefully TO will be able to rebound from the last game against Detroit. They just seem to be difficult go take down.

[cyberscorpi0]

I'm going to the Raptors-Pistons game on Tuesday....hopefully TO will be able to rebound from the last game against Detroit. They just seem to be difficult go take down.

Offensive REBOUND is the Key ;)

[S.F.W.]

The Rap's are really missing Ford and Garbo. I like the new set they ran last night, isolating Bosh on one side, and PG high. Makes Bosh go to the rim, which he needs to do..

[Tokic_o]

I think the Raptors really need to learn how to close out their games better. Honestly, in a lot of the recent games they've played and lost, they've had a good chance (if not the lead) going into the last quarter or so. They just don't close the game out properly and ruin it for themselves.

[asif9t9]

I'm going to the Raptors-Pistons game on Tuesday....hopefully TO will be able to rebound from the last game against Detroit. They just seem to be difficult go take down.

Hate to say it, but there's not much chance of the Raps beating Detroit. Pistons have pwned us the last couple of years, even though we're supposed to be better. But hey, I was at the Dallas game a few weeks ago, and I was actually trying to give away the tickets because I figured they'd be down 20 by the time I got to the arena. But they won.


The Rap's are really missing Ford and Garbo. I like the new set they ran last night, isolating Bosh on one side, and PG high. Makes Bosh go to the rim, which he needs to do..

Not sure if I saw any new play last night. All CB needs to do....needs to learn how to do....is to catch the ball and immediately make his move. Before the double-team. No sizing up his defender. Just go. If the defender moves the right way, use the spin. Know where your teammates are at in case you have to pass out. But CB is at his all-star best when he forces refs to make calls.

[cyberscorpi0]

You gotta love the double OT win by the Raps (Toronto vs Portland).

"Toronto's Jamario Moon said he has been asked to be a participant in this year's slam dunk contest, as part of the 2008 All-Star Weekend in New Orleans."

http://www.nba.com/media/act_jamario_moon.jpg

http://assets.espn.go.com/media/apphoto/ef9d17f3-8907-4f78-aa99-19495fb9b925.jpg

http://multimedia.thestar.com/images/7c/08/97d0aa7d435cbe0ce6c9c9ba5fbf.jpeg

http://www.sportsnet.ca/basketball/2008/01/12/moon_dunk_getty_260.jpg

[dr1ft3r]

Game of the year yesterday

[ptwonline]

Those are some great Jamario Moon photos! I love the look on AP's face as Moon makes that block--it's like "I have seen the light, and I will repent!"

Anyway, considering how much they've lost through injuries and considering that they are getting next to nothing from Bargnani, it's a testament to the job the Colangelo and Mitchell have been doing that the team is still over .500. Calderon is terrific, but the make-up of the Raptors means they need more penetration from the PG spot, and that's where the quickness of Ford is better than Calderon's efficiency. On a team with more slashers, Calderon would be even better than he is now.

Go Raps!

[cyberscorpi0]

Great Win for the Raps tonight (vs Kings)! It was raining "3's" at ACC with Delfino's Career High 26 pts.

http://www.nba.com/media/act_carlos_delfino.jpg

[FLIPDADY]

Good bounce back victory after that loss to the Pistons.

CB4 and Delfino do it again!

[asif9t9]

Next two games are important. Atlanta and Philly. That could put us 5 games over .500 going into our next so-called statement game against Boston.

[cyberscorpi0]

Great Win for the Raps last night. Another stupid fragrant Foul by the Hawks!

"Anthony Johnson appeared to intentionally elbow Jose Calderon in the back of the head and was ejected with a Flagrant 2 foul late in the second quarter of Friday's game.

http://s63.photobucket.com/albums/h149/cyberscorpi0/th_rapshawks03.jpg

http://s63.photobucket.com/albums/h149/cyberscorpi0/th_rapshawks05.jpg

[FLIPDADY]

WTF happened last night?

We could of handed Philly their asses.

[Fuman]

WTF happened last night?

We could of handed Philly their asses.
I missed the game... I can't believe the raps lost.
http://www.nba.com/raptors/ <-- the front page image seems to be poking fun at bosh; makes him look like a cry baby

[RallyPlaya]

What Happened Was They Got Destroyed like 34-16 in the Third Quarter Almost Came Back But Missed Key Shots in the last 2 min. Just a Bad Game For Them They Should Bounce Back All I Really Care Is How they play in the playoffs Because there 99% Making it.

[faibs]

WTF happened last night?

We could of handed Philly their asses.
tahts what happens when we bust out the bench for most of the game.

[FLIPDADY]

Jose with the hot hands!

Check out the stats on NBA.com.

Raps should have lost this game.

[Tokic_o]

:chuckle Calderon should make the all star team....his stats after TJ got injured are Steve Nash numbers

lol 15-21 from 3 and above 50% from the field kept us in the game and gave us the win :)

[FLIPDADY]

See the points in the paint?

Boston owned them there.

[dr1ft3r]

Bargs finally doin somethin!

[S.F.W.]

They killed us on the boards, but their bigs couldn't defend our shooters. Perkins, Davis, and Scalabrine just are too slow. Big win, and agreed nice to see Bargs bust out. I also really like seeing that he had 7 boards, and 7 assists, very important

[faibs]

They killed us on the boards, but their bigs couldn't defend our shooters. Perkins, Davis, and Scalabrine just are too slow. Big win, and agreed nice to see Bargs bust out. I also really like seeing that he had 7 boards, and 7 assists, very important

the only disappointing part of that is the fact that 7 first half boards. 0 second half:(

[cyberscorpi0]

Very proud of Ilmago finally back on track . . . hopefully.

Great win for the Raps last night.

Calderon is my Best Player again! Hope he makes the allstar consideration from Doc.

[cyberscorpi0]

"Ilmago" is still Alive!

Great game from all players last night. I can describe the game in a word "Whooping!"

Calderon deserves to be in the All-Stars

Go Raps Go!

[Unoriginalusername]

i was there last night, row 13... great game and now free pizza :)

[cyberscorpi0]

i was there last night, row 13... great game and now free pizza :)

You guys got free Pizza early in the 4th! I was hoping they will break the 100 mark in the 3rd.

[RallyPlaya]

Raps Are Killing it Out There There 4th in the East. & the Nets Have lost 9out of their last 10 games. JKidd has even Demanded a Trade Looks Like We Get the Last Laugh at VC

[WLS ZMZM]

the Raptors need to be more consistent... they shouldn't have lost the other night in Washington, but way to rebound and crush them last night. Calderon definitely deserves an all star spot....but at least Moon and Bargnani are going..... and finally Andrea seems to be waking up from his slumber!!

[dr1ft3r]

JOSE CALDERON SNUBBED!!! wtf?? and joe johnson made it??

[FLIPDADY]

Looks like the Lakers are picking up Gasol from Memphis! Would have been nice to have him playing along side Calderon.

We'll see how they do tonight against Kobe's Lakers.

[Tokic_o]

Looks like the Lakers are picking up Gasol from Memphis! Would have been nice to have him playing along side Calderon.

We'll see how they do tonight against Kobe's Lakers.

Didn't do too good :chuckle lol kobe was good, but I gotta say a big part of the Lakers win was the ability of the other Lakers to score. Thats something they don't always do lol

Bright side, Bargani played well today. Hope he keeps it up.

[cyberscorpi0]

The Little Engine is Back!

Glad to see him DUNK the Ball too.

Chuck brought the "Salami & Cheese" with 3:40 in the 3rd. That's gotta be a record!

http://www.tjfordlive.com/files/b255d318d515a91e10cbd22d05d05a925dbad12d.jpg

[faibs]

The Little Engine is Back!

Glad to see him DUNK the Ball too.

Chuck brought the "Salami & Cheese" with 3:40 in the 3rd. That's gotta be a record!

http://www.tjfordlive.com/files/b255d318d515a91e10cbd22d05d05a925dbad12d.jpg

pretty sure it was around 5:40;)

[FLIPDADY]

Shaq to Phoenix for Shawn Marion? What are the Suns thinking?

http://www.nba.com/nba_news/oneal_trade.html

[S.F.W.]

I read that a few places. Such a bad deal for the Suns.

[dr1ft3r]

its the best deal the suns could make since marion wanted to be traded

[FLIPDADY]

I read that a few places. Such a bad deal for the Suns.
Yeah Marion has wanted out for a while now. The Suns get the short end of this one since Shaq is still injured.

[Caz]

The knock on the Suns has always been that they can't win without a big man, I think Shaq fills that roll and then some. Amare Stoudemire should see less double teams and if he sees them he can dish it off to Shaq for an easy dunk. I can't wait to see how gased Shaq is going to be for the first while trying to keep up with the speed of the suns.

[sauga_kid]

+1 on that thought of the suns not being able to win without a big man, and Shaq definitely fills this spot. In terms of the big Diesel keeping up with the run and gun style of the suns, I don't think its going to be an issue as I beleive that the Suns game is going to change with the introduciton of Shaq. We may be seeing them playing some traditional ball with a few run and gun plays for Amare worked in. It will definitely be interesting to see how they turn out. Good move on the suns (short term wise) for a push for that ring, provided Shaq can recover.

[FLIPDADY]

Jason Kidd to the Mavs?

That's some good news for the Raps for tonights Nets game.

[cyberscorpi0]

Best part of the game was "Let's Go Raptors! VC SUCKS!" by the crowd.

Calderon is getting better and better every game.


http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:mBXn2lnY2U3-SM:http://cache.viewimages.com/xc/354889.jpg%3Fv%3D1%26c%3DViewImages%26k%3D2%26d%3D 17A4AD9FDB9CF193B3EA2C03450C9486FE1CD10ED641237C28 4831B75F48EF45 (http://cache.viewimages.com/xc/354889.jpg?v=1&c=ViewImages&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF193B3EA2C03450C9486FE1CD10ED641237C 284831B75F48EF45)
Jason Kidd and
Malik Allen to Dallas

For:
Devin Harris, swingman Jerry Stackhouse, center DeSegana Diop, Devean George and Maurice Ager.

[Notorious MS3]

With Kidd now in the west, Jose Calderon should be going to the all star game. I really can't think of a better point gaurd in the east.

[Tokic_o]

Devean George apparently won't go to NJ. Now the drama begins :chuckle

[tweak_s]

Best part of the game was "Let's Go Raptors! VC SUCKS!" by the crowd.



lol I was at the game tonight... that was quite the funnys.

[RallyPlaya]

I Personally think NJ Got the the better of the deal. longterm kidd can play maybe 3 more seasons at best. While the Nets acquired Harris and Diop both very contributing players plus 2 first round draft pics in the long run that will really benifet the team. Harris avg 14 pts and 5 assists btw.+ keep in mind with the deal stackhouse will go back to dallas as that is part of the agreement they will buy him out with the cash dallas gave them and in 30 days stachouse is back in dallas. With Kidd Dallas can go for the Championship IMO

[asif9t9]

That would be crazy if Devean George held up the trade. But NJ's biggest problem will be trying to get rid of VC. The guy can't lead the team, and that makes him not worth the big ticket they're paying him. I can't imagine who would want to trade for him.

[cyberscorpi0]

But NJ's biggest problem will be trying to get rid of VC. The guy can't lead the team, and that makes him not worth the big ticket they're paying him. I can't imagine who would want to trade for him.

The problem is, no body want a whinny cry baby on their team. That's why New Jersey is stuck with VC-SUCKS ;)

[ShortBus]

i think vc just realized how big of a douchbag he is last game. kidd didn't want to play with him, george doesn't have the cred kidd does but even he doesn't want to play in jersey (even with rj on jersey). not only is jersey the arm pit of america, they are the arm pit of the nba now too.

[sauga_kid]

So Dallas and NJ pulled the trigger, Kidd is a Mav once again!

[FLIPDADY]

So Dallas and NJ pulled the trigger, Kidd is a Mav once again!
Nice to see him back where he started. I guess both teams had to iron out some issues to make this deal happen.

[FLIPDADY]

Damn I missed a great game! Bosh sits down for the night with 40 points!

[S.F.W.]

yeah, a really nice game fro the dinos.

[FLIPDADY]

Blowout!

110-127

[WLS ZMZM]

Juan Dixon officially gone to the Pistons for center Primoz Brezec... Buh bye Juan.. now you really won't get any minutes... should have thought about that before crying

[dr1ft3r]

I don't think Juan is crying about getting traded to detroit.

[Tokic_o]

Would Juan prefer playing time, or a legimit chance of winning a championship? hmm....I think he'd prefer the latter right now.

[FLIPDADY]

Does he play back-up for Chauncy?:chuckle

I see him doing the same role as he did in T.O.

What do you guys think about the Cavs deal?

[sauga_kid]

Cavs deal is a very good move imo. I think the move will bump Clevland up in the East to around the 3rd or 4th position and give them a legitimate chance in the East. In terms of Juan going to the Pistons, meh, was always indifferent about him, he does as much on the court as Darrick Martin or Joey Graham, now those are two guys they should've unloaded since they get all of 3min. of PT.

[FLIPDADY]

Sweet game today. Big time payback for Friday's loss.

[RallyPlaya]

It Was a Good Game it was over in the 4th with 8 min left. I liked Brezic's play, played a bigger role than Dixon. & Bargnani had a great game he should play more consistently like he has lately. IMO the bottom line is the Raps have to get 3rd spot, they have a bad chance of beating the now loaded Cavs they stay in the 4th or 5th spot

[Azi]

can we even be seeded in the 3rd spot? im pretty sure we cant (unless we beat boston). i think the top 3 are the division leaders. and i doubt that we can beat boston. so i think 4th or 5th is as good as we are gonna get. and i doubt that the cavs will beat detroit. our best option is to lose, and meet orlando. but i doubt that will happen. it looks like we are gonna be meeting the cavs.

[RallyPlaya]

No actually there is a rule in the NBA that the top 3 teams of the divisions are at least guaranteed 1 0f the top 4 positions. So that being Sayed Raps can go over Orlando get 3rd spot and face either Washington, NJ, Indiana or Atlanta. Gonna be hard to get the 3rd spot though

[WLS ZMZM]

Nice game way to avenge that embarassment of the other night Primoz looked PRIMO!!!! hows the bench look Juan?? :chuckle Dino's were really good last night and Bargs came into quite the groove If the raps can play the way they did last night and have everyone running on all cylinders the post season should be interesting. Ford looked good with his passing

[Tokic_o]

Hope the raptors start being more consistent. They've been really inconsistent for basically the whole season. Eventhough they always seem to have these come back revenge games, I don't think they should have lost the 1st game to begin with. just my opinion

[WLS ZMZM]

you are most correct that first game was embarassing.... but I really liked how aggressive Primoz was... good start he looked good... and at 7'1" he can't really hurt being on the team

[cyberscorpi0]

Raps in the "W" column again!

[courtesy of RAPTORS.com]
Miami, Fla. -- Toronto forward Andrea Bargnani was shaken up early in the third quarter of the Raptors' game against the Miami Heat on Wednesday night, after a nasty collision under the basket.

Bargnani, the first overall pick in the 2006 NBA draft, was driving the right baseline with 9:57 left in the period when he went airborne near the basket. He collided with Miami forward Alexander Johnson, who was called for a flagrant foul on the play.

The back of Bargnani's head slammed on the court. He remained down for about three minutes, before walking to the Raptors' bench assisted by medical personnel from both teams.

Even after the hit, Bargnani returned to the court to make the two free throws, doing so even while Heat team neurologist Dr. Allan Herskowitz was being summoned to the Raptors' locker room, where Bargnani met him after the second foul shot.

Heat team dentist Dr. Larry Brown was also brought in to examine Bargnani, who entered the game averaging 10.3 points.



http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h149/cyberscorpi0/RAPSHEAT01.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h149/cyberscorpi0/RAPSHEAT03.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h149/cyberscorpi0/RAPSHEAT09.jpg

More Pics Here. (http://www.createforum.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?p=176&mforum=4maycioncrew#176)




.

[RallyPlaya]

Yeah hopes hes Ok that looked like a bad fall right on his back and his head nit the floor too .... I Think hel be good and back in a few days xrays came in negative...

[Fuman]

down 9 with 7 min to go.
i think we lost =(

[dr1ft3r]

What an ugly road trip.

[sauga_kid]

I'm tired of watching the Raps give up the game, they always mount the comeback, tie it up and then give up. The only one playing lately is Kapono, with Bosh out, the Raps look like $hit. I don't know what's going on with Bargnani, he's not showing up to the games, his shot selection is that of an elementary school kid and his confidence is out the door, he needs to pull it together.

[WLS ZMZM]

so how about that game the other night against atlanta??? Talk about getting robbed.... this isn't the first time the hawks clock guys have screwed up... the Raps deserve that win.. even though they gave the hawks three good looks in the last 11 seconds... which allowed them to tie it up

[asif9t9]

Raps are floundering all the way to the playoffs. Unbelievable how bad this is going now.

[WLS ZMZM]

the Raps will be fine..... they just have to shake off what's happened to them as of recently....

[RallyPlaya]

Honestly i thinks it good they lost this way they can hopefully grab the 6th spot and Face Orlando a team i think they can take ..... Cleveland vs. Toronto will be hard Lebron will slaughter the Raps in 6 games IMO and hel score the last 12 pts in all their wins

[WLS ZMZM]

well another pathetic turn out for the RAPS.... is Ford even there lately?? what a lousy turn over last night... and poor Rasho... he keeps playing his heart out...

[TheProfessor]

Raps finally win one. Hopefully this will help to get their confidence back up. Now it's on to Wince Carter tomorrow night. I'll be at the game so they had better come out to play!

[asif9t9]

I can't help but cheer for Villy. I mean, the guy is as lazy as they come and I wouldn't want him as a cornerstone of my team. But he just looks like such a nice guy, and when he lights it up, he can't be stopped. Reminds me of Antoine Walker.

We can only hope Bargnani turns out like Antoine Walker one day.

[TheProfessor]

With respect to Bargs, I'm not holding my breath. If I had my way, we'd trade him and Ford in the off season for some decent talent.

I think Bargs has been given plenty of time to 'adjust' to life in the NBA, he's just a bust IMO. Sure he has some good nights, but he has more bad ones.

[RallyPlaya]

I Know many of you have hatred for Vince Carter... he did ditch the team and it was unfortunate because the Raps are a Top 5 Team in the East Now.... ive been a Nets Fan since The K-Mart, Kittles Days and he honestly VC was playing his heart out his ankle is injured and he is leading the team with Kidd's Departure.... the nets are out of the playoffs for the first time in 6yrs and i hope they can turn around for next year.... All in all VC's not bad on NJ hes on decline and i see RJ Stepping up..... The Raps i believe can take any team except #1 and #2 Boston & Detroit.... but playoff time anything is possible & Proffesor u picked a good game to go to its Gonna be intense with all the VC hatred u guys get the last laugh this year

[FLIPDADY]

Playoffs = New season!

Go Raps!

[x_o_k_x]

Vince Carter still my best player, to bad he left Raptors, I was pissed off..

[FLIPDADY]

I still have his Mr. Bigg bobblehead from when he was in T.O. but looks more like JYD.

You think it'll be worth something?

[TheProfessor]

Proffesor u picked a good game to go to its Gonna be intense with all the VC hatred u guys get the last laugh this year

I know, but I think all the hatred towards VC is overplayed. Let it go people, let's show that we as fans can move on.

I agree about VC playing pretty good right now, I'm glad to see he's stepped up with Kidd's absense.

As for the Raps being able to beat anyone but the top two, I have to tell you that King James scares the crap out of me during the regular season, I really don't want to see him during the playoffs.

[TheProfessor]

Okay, so the game last night was amazing, and this morning I got tickets to the first play off home game!!!!! Our seats are right beside where Colangelo stands during the games.

[b.rabbit]

Do you guys agree with The Toronto Star's Dave Feschuk?

Title of the article: "Memo to Bosh: Shut up and win".
Link: http://www.thestar.com/Sports/NBA/article/413882

[RallyPlaya]

Well the guys correct about the importance of getting 6th spot as the have a good chance against orlando.... getting 7th would mean a probable defeat by Detroit.... what this guy is wrong about is Bosh's calls to fans. Bosh is just trying to get everyone pumped up and forget about the leafs focus on the raptors he wants to get a crowd like the Golden st. Warriors had in 07..... Bosh is a great Leader for the raptors in that sense

[TheProfessor]

I agree with the author to a certain extent. The Raptors have not given fans much to cheer about lately, and it is up to them to get the crowd involved, not the other way around.

[RallyPlaya]

Raptors have Locked 6th Spot in the East and Will 100% Face the Orlando Magic.... This IMO is the best outcome for the Raptors... i believe the raps will take it in 6 Games