NBA stuff - talk Raptors and other teams

[Alan]

LETS GO RAPTORS!! 40 mins boyss

[FLIPDADY]

LETS GO RAPTORS!! 40 mins boyss
Got my beer and nachos ready!

Go Raps!

[TheProfessor]

Go Raps Go, this is gonna be a great series, let's just hope the Raptors bench comes out to play!

[Alan]

Heres to hoping for a huge game from our PG, Forderon!!

[RallyPlaya]

Yeah Im Ready for this Game to i Got a Flight to Philly @ 5 Tday but im still defnly gonna Watch this Game Games Gonna be close and intense Go Raps Go

[TheProfessor]

Well, that was pretty painful to watch. The only bright side is that despite the fact the Raps were shooting 38% they were somewhat close a few times. If Orlando plays like that every game there's no chance for the Raps.

[FLIPDADY]

First half Orlando was shooting 80%!

Good to see Kapono making some 3's though.

[b.rabbit]

I thought Kapono was underused by Mitchell. They could've used him a lot on the perimeter, but then his D is sketch.

[TheProfessor]

Wow, last's nights game was amazing! My throat is killing me from all the screaming and chanting. I know most of you guys were probably at the AA meet, but you missed an awesome game. Howard was definately affected by the crowd chanting and booing.

Can't wait for game four tomorrow.

[sauga_kid]

Definitely a good game, was listening to it on the way to the meet and caught the "game in an hour" when I got back. Despite all the criticism TJ gets, he definitely showed up along with Calderon. Half way to making this a new series...Let's Go Raptors!

[TheProfessor]

TJ may have had a lot of points, but I can tell you that he was still hogging the ball, and you could see the frustration on the other Raptors players faces.

[sauga_kid]

They don't call him MeJ Ford for nothing:chuckle

[RallyPlaya]

Big Win by the Raps...... Tmrow is a must win as well and the 2nd game was a heartbreaker.... i still think the Raps can take this in 6 games

[BLKOUT]

I thought Kapono was underused by Mitchell. They could've used him a lot on the perimeter, but then his D is sketch.

Kapono is always under used! Mitchell needs to play him a lot more, he is the 3-point champ, come on Mitchell!

Calderon needs to start and have TJ come off the bench.

[TheProfessor]

Calderon needs to start and have TJ come off the bench.

Not gonna happen, TJ has already demonstrated that he is not willing to come off the bench and be a contributor.

I really hope Colangelo decides to trade his ass in the off season, and that we get someone reasonable in return.

[cyberscorpi0]

Let's Go Raptors! "Superman Sucks". Let's Go Raptors! "Superman Sucks".

Let's repeat this awesome performance by the Players & the FANS tomorrow!!!

[Tokic_o]

45 minutes!!!

GO RAPTORS GO!!

[b.rabbit]

Love how the Raps fans are taking a page from the Habs fans..instead of chanting "Ole" they're chanting "Jose" in the same style!

WOOT! LET'S GO RAPS! 2 in a row!!!

[sauga_kid]

Dammit, there goes the season:flaming Had a bad feeling coming out the gates when friggin' Bargnani picked up 2 fouls in a matter of 20 seconds...20 seconds, what was he thinking:complainSeems like the Raptors made the trip out to Orlando but forgot to bring Bargnani along, what a bust. So I guess its time to rebuild/restructure for the 08/09 season. Any thoughts on what moves should be made? My take...first move, get rid of Mitchell. Like I said before COY last year was not a reflection of him as a coach but rather the amazing moves of Colangelo. Second move, package up Garbo and Graham. Garbo is losing his value with every day that goes by and there aren't many days left until we can't even get a cup of Gatorade for him...and Graham, he's just Graham and is useless to us even though he's built like a truck and is good on that rare occasion he isn't suffering from VC syndrome. Three, if a good offer comes up for Bargnani, ship him out...he was an extremely huge disappointment this year. He seemed so dejected for a good portion of the season, his self esteem went out the door faster than Alonzo Mourning refusing to play for Toronto. Keep the one two punch of TJ and Jose in the backcourt, hold onto Delfino and Kapono, continue to build around Bosh. Rasho, Moon and AP are great players and worth keeping as well. The Raps are a well rounded team, what we're lacking is a wingman to Bosh, the Pippen to the Jordan (not that Bosh is anywhere near Jordan but you get the idea). Hopefully Colangelo can come up with something over the offseason and get us past the first round next season. Until then, its been a decent run. All I know is that I hope that the Lakers get eliminated soon cuz I'm tired of everyone hanging off of Kobe's right nut. Both the Lakers and Kobe are over-rated and under-hated:bang...for the last time in this season...Let's Go Raptors!

--#1 Laker Hater--

[--StayFly--]

sam mitch gettin fired and the raprots are getting the sun couch

[S.F.W.]

I disagree with canning Mitchell, don't think he was the problem. Packaging Garbo and Graham, and get what back? A bag of basketballs?
I think if they can, they need to move Ford, he shouldn't have been starting and is unwilling to play off the bench.
Keep Bargs, it's too early to give up on the guy, he's 20 years old and 7 feet tall. He has good instincts, just needs work. I heard he is going to be working with John Lucas this offseason to improve his inside game, and overall toughness.

[sauga_kid]

Mitchell still continues to switch up the lines at the wrong times ruining the flow of the game and doesn't utilize the talent that we have. I just don't think he's cutting it but that's me. As for the bag of basketballs? I'd take them, but only if they were Spaldings and nothing less. Ford gets too much hate in Toronto, Jose only put up 2pts the other game and nobody said boo, but when Ford doesn't produce, the jug of haterade comes out. I say keep the both of them, best guard combo in the L. I'd be willing to keep Bargnani, I'm not giving up, but like I said, if a nice offer came up, I'd definitely consider it. Hopefully we'll improve next season and not plummet to the Miami Heat level.

[--StayFly--]

where was moon in the 4 qr

[sauga_kid]

I think Garbo got bored and was helping him stretch his groin

[--StayFly--]

I think Garbo got bored and was helping him stretch his groin

:gone

[RedRaptor]

Fire Smitch. Trade Me J Ford. Bring in some help to grab the rebounds and a secondary scorer to help Bosh out. You can tell by the 4th quarter, Bosh was gassed after play so much the whole series.

The only time the Raps won a playoff round was when they had secondary scoring...Carter and McGrady.

What a disappointing post season...

[sauga_kid]

I totally agree, the raps got murdered in the paint, 55-37 RBS. We need some bigs to help CB4 out.

[b.rabbit]

Sam Mitchell's gotta go. And I think TJ Ford needs to go as well.

Mitchell gets outcoached way to easily and he doesn't call timeout until it's too late. I also don't think he utilized his bench as well as he could have. Essentially, the Raptors were playing as if they were learning their new team all over again but this time in the post-season. That doesn't make any sense.

For example, why is he not starting Nesterovic when he has the hot hand. He had double digits for I don't know how many consecutive games. He gets the job done. Sure he's slow, but he scores and he rebounds. Mitchell's gotta play him more than Bargs. Bargs watches the play too much, he doesn't react until it's too late (and usually results in a foul).

Ford, should dump him 'cuz he's not a team player. No matter how many times you'll hear from him that he's all about the team. His actions speak louder than his words. When he's back up to Calderon, you can see it in his body language that he's not happy coming off the bench. He should be thanking Calderon for giving him his starting job back.

Graham, he could be a lot better if the coach used him more. Humphries, he could've made a difference against Howard. They're both physical. Put physical man against physical man. It may have made a difference.

Kapono, don't understand why Mitchell didn't use him more during the season. Maybe because he had sketch defense, but I was surprised to see him on the court with so many minutes.

I dunno, I think the Raptors could've made this a better series if Mitchell knew how to use his players.

I hope Colangelo will work his magic once again and make this team better for next year. At least he knows what he's doing, unlike the Maple Leafs.

[TheProfessor]

It will be really interesting to see what BC does this off season. I really want to get rid of Ford also but I wonder about his 'worth' on the market. He's been injured twice this past season and demonstrated that he's not a team player. He's definately got talent but I don't think the Raps can expect to command too much for him.

I think Jose takes over the starting role with Delfino as the back up (he used to play PG and he handles the ball quite well).

Bargs has definately got to go as well. His stats actually got worse in his second year, not a good thing considering the amount of time spent on grooming him for life in the NBA.

Mitchell definately needs to go. Never have I seen a coach make subsitutions based solely on the timing of a game and not based upon who's got the hot hand. The PG's were subbed in at set times throughout the regular season which is ridiculous. Any why mess with the starting line up for the first two playoff games?

The Raptors failure this season was a team effort. Each player had stretches of brilliance but none could play consistantly well throughout the season.

[cyberscorpi0]

Officially Eliminated last night;) Raps needs to re-group big time next season. I'm pretty sure there will be a lot of player movement in the off-season.

I still believe in Colangelo.

[Caz]

This team is average at best in a very weak conference, they got into the 6th seed with a .500 record. I hope people didn't think they were going to make noise in the playoffs. It is a work in progress, there will be lots of new faces again next year. They are 2-3 years away from being a team that can go deep in the playoffs.

[thr33scompany]

Is it just me or does anyone else think that Bosh played "scared" or out of character?!?? The primary option for the raps is bosh.. if bosh is hesitating on isolation plays and even on hand-offs.. you know he's shook. I'm disappointed in Bosh's play during the playoffs. If people are going to say that he was tired... who isn't?!?!? it's the playoffs... suck it up. If Bosh was so scared of Dwight Howard, get the damn guy in foul trouble... This guy isn't going to take any charges... dont just try to dribble around him and nicely lay it off the glass.. geez..

Not to put all the blame on bosh... if bosh has the ball.. someone PLEASE CUT!!!!
This serious was just ugly!! what a disappointment.

I guess i'll be waiting next year for Garbo and Bargs to show up...

[Tokic_o]

It will be really interesting to see what BC does this off season. I really want to get rid of Ford also but I wonder about his 'worth' on the market. He's been injured twice this past season and demonstrated that he's not a team player. He's definately got talent but I don't think the Raps can expect to command too much for him.

I think Jose takes over the starting role with Delfino as the back up (he used to play PG and he handles the ball quite well).

Bargs has definately got to go as well. His stats actually got worse in his second year, not a good thing considering the amount of time spent on grooming him for life in the NBA.

Mitchell definately needs to go. Never have I seen a coach make subsitutions based solely on the timing of a game and not based upon who's got the hot hand. The PG's were subbed in at set times throughout the regular season which is ridiculous. Any why mess with the starting line up for the first two playoff games?

The Raptors failure this season was a team effort. Each player had stretches of brilliance but none could play consistantly well throughout the season.

Cannot agree with you more. I just hope we can get something decent with TJ's value on the market...I don't think hes worth much now.

[TheProfessor]

Well, BC said on TV yesterday that he has no plans of getting rid of mitchell and any reports indicating as such are false.

[Alan]

The one thing that people have to understand is that this team was NOT meant to be a contender immediately, rather a team ready to compete in a few years time. It's kind of obvious that the team overachieved two years ago, and this year, we came back to reality with all of our weaknesses exposed.

The team is in huge need of a upgrade at the two or the three spots. I love AP but man, everyone can see that he has lost a step or two on his much heralded man-on-man D from last year.

We only have THREE legit starters, and two of them play the same position (Bosh and Forderon). It's gonna be a huge off-season with Jose being a RFA, and BC saying that he will match anything offered by another team.

I would love to keep both PG's, but realistically, Jose and MeJ are our two most interesting assets (Bosh and Bargs are untouchables). There is absolutely NO way that BC will trade Bargs away. What for? That the Euro experiment was a failure? He's only 22 right now, and he's being forced to play a position he never has, so give it some time before the BUST label is given.

Maybe other team's stars want out, and we can package one of the PG's (MeJ hopefully), along with Rasho's 9M expiring deal, to get back a star at the 2 or 3. I'm drooling over seeing the prospects of Corey Maggette on the team; a bonafide slasher who gets to the line 9 times a game and can rebound. The Clippers probably think he isn't in their plans since Al Thornton's emergence.

Anyways, people probably disagree with my sentiments about AP etc, but this is awesome debating haha. It's gonna be a LOOONG and INTERESTING offseason folks!!

[TheProfessor]

Well, not sure if you guys have heard, but Chuck Swirsky has left the Raptors organization for personal reasons. He will be doing radio play by play in Chicago. According to MLSE he left 'for the right reasons' and on a good note and they wish him the best.

Why couldn't it have been Leo who left (hate him).

[S.F.W.]

Well, not sure if you guys have heard, but Chuck Swirsky has left the Raptors organization for personal reasons. He will be doing radio play by play in Chicago. According to MLSE he left 'for the right reasons' and on a good note and they wish him the best.

Why couldn't it have been Leo who left (hate him).

That really is disappointing, they just said a few weeks back they were going to keep him.

[LockOut]

It wasn't their choice... Chuck left to be closer to home/family, back in Chi-Town. I don't think Chuck would be canned anywhere that he went! haha... He's a great announcer, very knowledgeable (in all things sports related, not just ball), and a great radio host. Chicago's a lucky place to be getting him. Maybe it'll make the team better? :chuckle
Anyone hear any rumours on who's coming to replace him?

[TheProfessor]

Ami, as LockOut said, it was totally Chuck's decision. He just became a Canadian citizen too a few months back.

Jack Armstrong is also not likely to be commentating on any games next season as he was employed by SportNet who have said they won't carry Raptors games next season.

[b.rabbit]

Calderon says he wants to start...

PG controversy?

[Alan]

No controversy. Bye bye MeJ!

[LockOut]

No controversy. Bye bye MeJ!
+1... I really don't think that he'll be around next year, he hasn't been the same since he got injured... and he just doesn't make good decisions in the clutch.

[TheProfessor]

In Chuck Swirsky's online blog he said that with the new developments of Calderon wanting to start, he can see TJ being traded and that he is still worth a reasonable amount to other teams despite his health issues.

[Alan]

Who knows what BC is thinking. Maybe this is just a huge smokescreen to trade Jose. Maybe his intentions are to actually keep TJ, and this is just a huge ruse to get the maximum return for Jose. (however, im a Jose fanboy) lol

[aylkoo]

I say trade TJ for Nash, that way, Nash doesn't have to play that many minutes, and Jose will have an MVP to learn from. Since D'Antoni is gone anyway, Nash should come to TO!!

[RallyPlaya]

I Say get rid of Bargnani..... never liked him the most unreliable player on the Raps..... and trade Tj Ford see what you can get in the market for those two

[LockOut]

I say trade TJ for Nash, that way, Nash doesn't have to play that many minutes, and Jose will have an MVP to learn from. Since D'Antoni is gone anyway, Nash should come to TO!!
If you can get Nash for TJ, you must be the best GM EVER!!!! Not going to happen...

[BLKOUT]

There is no way that a trade of TJ Ford for Steve Nash would happen, not as a straight trade anyways. I would love to see Nash here!

Bargnani, I am up in the air on this guy, he has showed that he can play, but not all the time. I say trade him! lol

[LockOut]

I say give him one more shot. I think he's got it in him. Bulk him up a bit, and he'll do fine. Not a superstar, but...

[iconicrocket]

No way any GM will trade Nash for TJ. But then again, KG did go from Minnesota to Boston, so I wouldn't count it out altogether.

[BLKOUT]

I thought Kapono was underused by Mitchell. They could've used him a lot on the perimeter, but then his D is sketch.

EXACTLY!! Kapono needs to play more, a lot more!

[Alan]

EXACTLY!! Kapono needs to play more, a lot more!

If we play him more, whose going to be defending? Bargs and Jose are pretty damn bad defenders, and Bosh is realistically above average. Basically the team will score, but give those points right back lol.

[aylkoo]

Bosh really needs to work on his post moves ... can't just rely on his jumpshot all the time.

The thing I don't get is, Raptors are terrible at rebounding, but Mitchell has Bargnani at the 3-pt line, and then Bosh at the free-throw line for his plays ... WHAT THE FRIG IS THAT?!?! They need a guy like Oakley to get tougher man, to be aggressive and push some bodies around. Look what Detroit did to Howard ... that's what we need ... SOME MUSCLE

[sauga_kid]

Game one down and the results I was hoping for. Pierce played big, as did Garnett and Allen, this big three is simply amazing! If the Celtics keep up their play like this, I see the taking it 5, maybe 6. All I know is that Kobe cracked in his first finals without the big diesel by his side. Here's to hoping that the PGA tour can due away with the Fakers!

---Your Resident #1 Laker Hater---

[S.F.W.]

Great to see the Celtics win. I really want to see KG get his ring. Their challenge will be the middle 3 games in LA. They really need to win one of those games.

[aylkoo]

KG definitely deserves it, after all those years playing on a bad team ... Ray Ray needs to step up and make his shots, if he does that, then the Celtics will have a good chance in LA

[TheProfessor]

I really want to see all of the big three get the ring, they all deserve it IMO. That and I really dislike Kobe.

Did anyone else know that Bosh was doing interviews for Jay Leno at the finals? You can watch the video on YouTube.

Also, Jamario Moon won the NBA dunk competition (each day for the past month two dunks went head to head and were voted on by the fans). Well, Apollo 33 took the whole damn thing! You can watch the vids on NBA.com.

[asif9t9]

I know it's so ghey, but I love stories like when a guy gets injured but comes back like that. Like wrestling!! haha

For all those years, I was forced into cheering that VC was better than Paul Pierce. But any Raptor fan knew at the time, Paul Pierce has always been better. Way better. One of the many great things, since VC left, is I can now cheer for Pierce.

Funny thing about KG is he gets all the credit. Like his arrival turned around the Celtics. Celts are nothing without their money player, Paul Pierce.

[b.rabbit]

Paul Pierce getting carried to a wheelchair and then getting wheelchaired into the dressing room, and then coming back after like what..3 minutes?

WHAT THE HECK WAS THAT?! pft...

[sauga_kid]

^:loco

[--StayFly--]

:loco

[sauga_kid]

My call for tonight is Lakers by 12. Coming off two loses, building some momentum at the later stage of game 2 and heading back to Lalaland just might give the Fakers what they need to pick up a W. If my prediction is incorrect, I will be that much more happy. The way I see this series is, Boston will take the middle of the 3 games in lalaland with the Fakers taking the first and last. The PGA tour will return to Boston to close it out, Pierce will get MVP and Kobe will make his way to Colorado to find another unsuspecting hotel maid to have his way with in order to drown his sorrows.

---Your Resident #1 Laker Hater---

[sp3GT]

I think Lakers will win tonight, I must say that in game 2 the fouls called on them were ridiculous.

[sauga_kid]

You must admit though, it was quite funny to see Kobe almost in tears that he wasn't getting the calls. But to be fair as well, you can't just drive 2-3 times the entire game and expect to get the calls, it doesn't matter who you are. You gotta continuously go in to draw those calls and Kobe was simply shut down, even the Zen master said so in his post game interview.

[Takumi616]

BOSTON FTW!!!!! :bana2

[TheProfessor]

Lakers had to win last night, there's no way they'd recover from being down three games to none in the series.

I think Boston will bounce back for tomorrow's game.

[sauga_kid]

My prediciton is unfolding as called. I agree with the Prof, the Celtics will bounce back and Pierce and Garnett will have huge game 4's.

[Takumi616]

Boston will take the series in 6 games......

[sauga_kid]

And so it continues, friggin' amazing game last night, the PGA tour brought its A game and showed everyone why they deserve the championship. Recovering from a 24pt deficit was simply amazing. That's the one word I would use to discribe the Celtics "Amazing" So for all the Laker bandwagoners, this is your stop, thanks for coming out and as Chuck Swirsky would say "Brake out the salami and cheese, this game is over".

[TheProfessor]

And so it continues, friggin' amazing game last night, the PGA tour brought its A game and showed everyone why they deserve the championship. Recovering from a 24pt deficit was simply amazing. That's the one word I would use to discribe the Celtics "Amazing" So for all the Laker bandwagoners, this is your stop, thanks for coming out and as Chuck Swirsky would say "Brake out the salami and cheese, this game is over".


Actually, Chuck would have said "Get out the salami and cheese mama, this ballgame is over" :)

The Celtics deserve it on so many levels. It has literally been a fairytale season for them. I'm happy for the team and hope they can close it out with a strong effort.

[sauga_kid]

Damn, that was an amazing game! To see the defense shut down the Fakers like that was awsome. Kobe came out gunning in the first but that was it, so much for being a "leader." All the Celtics put in their contributions and it was a championship well earned. One of the plays that I loved most was seeing House's alley to Allen I believe it was...so great to see the bench pull off plays like this and to watch the Celtics continue to demoralize the Fakers despite their 30+pt lead. I think this was getting to Odom to the point where he looked like he was about to explode on KG but KG just laughed it off cuz he knew he had his ring and nothing could stop that. Celtics win Celtics win...ubuntu!

[TheProfessor]

Yeah, Odom was getting seriously frustrated, but good for him for at least showing some emotion and fighting. Kobe just gave up.

I'm very happy for the Celtics, they deserved.

Hopefully this will shut up all the people in the Western conference (how many teams did they have wtih 50+ wins again).

[aylkoo]

Can't believe they let Garbo go ... that sucks ... he would have been good for us next year, that's if he's fully recovered from his injury.

Guess he wants to play for Spain more than the Raps ...

[sauga_kid]

Can't believe it? Man, I can't believe it took them so long to get rid of him. He was just eating up a spot on the roster. Colangelo has something planned, can't wait to see the team next year.

[TheProfessor]

Agreed, Garbo will never be the same and he's certainly not worth the 4.5million they were going to have to pay him. He basically screwed the Raptors over by wanting to play for Spain last summer even though the Raps didn't.

I think Colangelo will pull some pretty major moves after the end of this month, and hopefully one will be shipping T.J. off and signing Jose.

[b.rabbit]

Anyone hear about the trade talks?

Ford to the Suns for Diaw

or

Ford, Nesterovic and another player to the Pacers for O'Neal.

[dr1ft3r]

Yea. i hear ford, raho, draft pick for oneal....jermain that is. not bad i think

[asif9t9]

I want this trade so bad. Some people just want an "athletic wing". But that sounds like someone who is just okay. Like Corey Magette. We need someone who can take the pressure off CB. A star. If the best star BC can get for a broken down TJ is Jermaine O'Neal, I say do it.

[sauga_kid]

Boris Diaw is also an option that the raps are entertaining

[TheProfessor]

My fear with JO is that he'll be injured for half the season. Granted the Raps run the same risk with TJ, but at least we have Calderon. In addition to Rasho, TJ and the 17th pick, they're now saying that the Raps would have to throw in one more player to balance out the salaries....I think that's too much to give for a 29 year old who may or may not be healthy.

[sauga_kid]

Agreed, despite all the hate that TJ gets from T.O. he has done quite a bit for the organization and works well as a part of the 1-2 backcourt threat (arguably the best guard combination in the L). Rasho played big for what he is in the closing games of the season and The Prof is right, if it comes down to having JO go down or Ford, I'll take Ford because at least Calderon is around as well is Rasho and our 17th pick. We'll see I guess.

[RedRaptor]

They'll have to throw in another player just to match salaries since JO will make $21 million this year and $23 next year. The only thing that concerns me about this trade is giving up the 17th pick. However, its almost a fact that the back half of the NBA draft doesn't yield many players who last very long in the league.

This is a high risk, high return type of deal. BC should go ahead with this. This will really get CB4 pumped up and take A LOT of pressure on him. The poor kid has NO help. I'm not a fan of Diaw.

JO had a knee injury last season causing him to miss quite a few games. But apparently the knee has been rehabbed and he is healthy. Remember that he missed 30 games the season before for smacking some dumb arse Pistons' fans around. :)

We're not losing much in Ford. He's not a team player and his attitude kills team chemistry. If we are able to get JO for him...I'd be very happy.

[LockOut]

I agree with RR on the fact that we're not losing much in Ford. Yes, him and Jose are a killer 1-2 punch at the 1-guard, but neither of them want to be the #2 in the 1-2 punch, so it's not even an issue. One of them is going to go, and I would rather give Jose the chance than TJ, personally.

[sauga_kid]

RR is right, its a high risk, high return deal. Looking at numbers, Ford is a 12-3-7 career player with only 4 years in the L, JO is an 11-8-1 player with 12 years in the L. Provided JO is 100% rehabilitated, I say do it, for the reason that RR points out that it will take some of the pressure off of CB. Only thing is that we will be losing that 17th pick and Rasho (along with his big contract which is good). There are pros and cons to the deal but I have faith in BC to do what's good for the team.

[RedRaptor]

The good thing about getting JO is, if he has a decent year he is major trade bait for next season. Despite the fact that he will earn $23 million in 2009-2010, the Raptors can easily deal him since the team that picks him up will get $23 million off the cap. Thats the same year that Lebron is a UFA, so you can bet teams like the Knicks will pony up draft picks to pick up JO and his expiring contract (remember the Jalen Rose deal where the Raps give the Knicks their 1st rounder to get Jalen off the books).

[TheProfessor]

Ultimately it all depends on JO's health. I have no issue in giving up Ford (so long as it's not for nothing), and while Rasho did play quite well during the final stretch of the season last year, he's still getting old and was fairly sub par in most games prior. The 17th overall pick doesn't worry me too much as this really isn't a deep draft year. Apparently the Raptors last 16th pick was Joey Graham, so I don't think we have too much to worry about.

Either way, it's good to see and hear that the Raps are starting to get the ball rolling with improving the club for next season.

[TheProfessor]

With respect to the trade, has anybody heard or have a feeling as to who will back up Jose at the point? I think Delfino should be given a chance, he used to play point and has shown that he's quite comfortable handling the ball. In a back up role I think he'd do fine.

[zmtomako]

i thought we were going to bring ukic in this year?
or thats the plan anyways...

[p-o-g-i]

That's what i was under the impression as well. I would love to see how Roko Ukic adjusts to the NBA game. If it's anything like his euro play, he will be very servicable...

[p-o-g-i]

Just to add from the Jermaine O'Neal thread.................



My prediction for this coming year IF this deal goes through and Jermaine becomes a Raptor:

60-70 games, 14 ppg, 8-9 rpg, 1.5 bpg, .450 fg%, .700 ft%

[sauga_kid]

i thought we were going to bring ukic in this year?
or thats the plan anyways...

My understanding is that they wanted to leave him over seas for another year or so to get seasoned a little more as oppose to bringing him over and being a bust because of difficulties transitioning and growing at the same time.

[zmtomako]

but with TJ supposedly gone now, what else could we do for a backup PG?

and what does this JO trade do for Bargnani? move him to SF, or just ease pressure off him so he can quitely develop playing as the 6th man?

im actually waiting for BC to stir up some more moves... i mean like, we have depth, but our starters are honestly not better than our bench..... AP and moon are good (and i like them), but mediocre starters at most... and delfino and kapono are about the same level as those guys...

[TheProfessor]

I also heard that the Raps want to give Roko one more year to develop. I think Bargs will be coming off the bench (and rightfully so IMO).

[LockOut]

but with TJ supposedly gone now, what else could we do for a backup PG?
We've got Derrick Martin! :chuckle :loco

[RallyPlaya]

We've got Derrick Martin! :chuckle :loco

Im 99% sure Derrick Martin retired...
my fav team is the Nets.... and they are making big changes with getting Yi for Jefferson... they also got to Solid Players form the draft y-day.... The plan is too free up Space to get Lebron James in 2010 as Jay-Z (Nets Owner) is moving the Team to Brooklyn and him and Lebron are Good friends.... i can't wait... crazy thing is there new 627 Million dollar stadium Barclays Centre is being planned and organized by my dad in some aspect as my dad works for Barclays Toronto

[06Touring3]

"Kobe, tell me how my ass tastes!"

[LockOut]

"Kobe, tell me how my ass tastes!"
HAHAHAHAHA I heard that on the radio yesterday, and that is f'n hilarious. Nothin' like a rip-roarin' drunk 7 foot monster rapping about his former team mate and now pretty much biggest rival...

[p-o-g-i]

but with TJ supposedly gone now, what else could we do for a backup PG?

and what does this JO trade do for Bargnani? move him to SF, or just ease pressure off him so he can quitely develop playing as the 6th man?

im actually waiting for BC to stir up some more moves... i mean like, we have depth, but our starters are honestly not better than our bench..... AP and moon are good (and i like them), but mediocre starters at most... and delfino and kapono are about the same level as those guys...

I’m sure in terms of a back- up PG, they will just pick up something cheap in free agency (probably some vet or cast- off).. unless of course another deal comes through.

As for what happens to Bargnani, I think the addition of Jermaine could only help in the mentoring of Andreas. Yes it will push him to the bench, but it will also take some pressure off him. Anyhow, who says Jemaine will play a full season?!?!? If he goes down with an injury, Bargnani will just step right in.

I believe Anthony Parker and Carlos Delfino are very underated. Parker could definitely hold his own at the 2 spot….. he doesn’t complain and does whatever is asked of him. Delfino is very serviceable as he proved last year when he covered some PG duties to back up Jose when TJ was down. I wouldn’t say that he can do it on a regular basis, but that shows how talented this guy is. Yes, he is a streaky guy…

[aylkoo]

I agree, I think Parker can definitely hold his own at the 2. The questions is whether or not he will be back. Some Greece team offered him some crazy number (I think 35 million) for 3 years, as opposed to making 4 million with the Raptors next year, so he might not even be back. I like Parker though, and Delfino, I think BC is doing a good job keeping the good players on the team.

As far as Derrick Martin, the guy retired in the middle of the season last year, was kept by the Raptors to be an assistant of some sort, but he was still with us.

Bargnani I think will do better next year, less pressure. The dude can play, just needs to take better shots. 90% of the shots he took last year was off balance, didn't even have his feet set yet, shooting bricks all season ...

[BLKOUT]

"Kobe, tell me how my ass tastes!"

HAHAHAHA!!! I love that comment.

Looks like a deal has been reached with Calderon...He is our Steve Nash!

[p-o-g-i]

Anyone else read in the Toronto Star the other day how Carlos Delfino is not in the Raptors plans for next year? I find that a little weird as they have made a qualifying offer to him a restricted free agent.

That same article also informs that Roko Ukic should be in uniform for Toronto next year... so that would solve the back- up PG position.

[p-o-g-i]

Looks like once again Bryan Colangelo got the job done and signed Jose Calderon to a long- term contract. As well, signed on are Roko Ukic (much anticipated) and Hassan Adams. Second round draft pick Nathan Jawai is expected to sign shortly, much to the surprise of many.

The last addition to get the team to the league minimum of 13 players is expected to be a young point guard.

More and more it looks as if Carlos Delfino could be on the way out :(

[TheProfessor]

The last addition to get the team to the league minimum of 13 players is expected to be a young point guard.



Why would they bring in yet another young PG when they already have Calderon and Ukic? I don't see them filling that final spot with another PG.

[p-o-g-i]

Why would they bring in yet another young PG when they already have Calderon and Ukic? I don't see them filling that final spot with another PG.

I agree. I was thinking along the same lines as you...... but then after taking a step back, I thought what would happen though if either Jose or Roko go down with an injury?!?!?!? Who would help comer the point?

[zmtomako]

doesnt hurt to have a 3rd PG i guess...

it'd be more useful than having like a 5th forward hahaha

this team looks good, but i have doubts whether or not we can compete with the top teams in the league... we need another legitimate all-star caliber scorer (ahem bargnani) to help bosh out...

Oneal, yea maybe, but thats only if he doesnt get hurt again and can play at the same 20/10 level he was once capable of...
and i'd still like to see calderon as a pass 1st PG rather than him putting up 20pts a game

[Alan]

doesnt hurt to have a 3rd PG i guess...

it'd be more useful than having like a 5th forward hahaha

this team looks good, but i have doubts whether or not we can compete with the top teams in the league... we need another legitimate all-star caliber scorer (ahem bargnani) to help bosh out...

Oneal, yea maybe, but thats only if he doesnt get hurt again and can play at the same 20/10 level he was once capable of...
and i'd still like to see calderon as a pass 1st PG rather than him putting up 20pts a game

Jose has always been the pass-first PG that you envisoned lol. The one knock on him on offense is that he likes to defer from shooting, even though he is one of the better shooters in the league. Jose loves to pass, and I think avg's of around 13-15ppg and 10 dimes are realistic.

[Alan]

We need to seriously upgrade our wing positions. I think Kapono could be the starter in place of Moon, with him coming off the bench with the instant spark of energy. It would be pretty redundant with Barney and JK coming off the bench with the exact same strength in the 3pt shot. Now with JK in the starting lineup, JO and CB can work with one-on-one coverage as teams will be scared to double.

[p-o-g-i]

... i'd still like to see calderon as a pass 1st PG rather than him putting up 20pts a game

Definitely.... I think that's why everyone fell in love with Jose's game. He is that proto- typical pass first type of PG..... but also proven to be a clutch performer. Yes, he is not as quick as TJ Ford, but he's still quicker then the majority of the PG's in this league.

What boggles my mind is how the Knicks offerred Chris Duhon a starting position if he were to sign with them. I believe that is what the pre- season and practices are for... to battle it out and determine through work ethic and results on who "deserves" playing time.

Then again, a starting position doesn't always guarentee playing time (ie. Rafael Araujo).

[TheProfessor]

It'll be wierd to have only one strong PG this upcoming season. We were spoiled last season where you could take one out and still have a pretty potent PG on the floor. There was never really a drop off in capabilities. Now when Jose is out Ukic will be average at best I'm sure (not his fault, he needs time in the NBA and who better to mentor him than Jose).

[zmtomako]

well with JO as the starting Center, i would see (or like to see anyways) kapono starting since both moon and JO are "athletic" and more or less defensive

[TheProfessor]

If Kopono can play like he did in the playoffs, he deserves the starting spot. Moon needs to learn that he's got to drive to the hoop and stop attempting so many 3pt shots.

[zmtomako]

yea i really liked the way kapono played against orlando (he did what he was signed to do... not the regular season crap that he put up, being put on the bench and having no 2nd PG with TJ down was definitely an issue)

moon on the other hand... if he doesnt start driving more this year, he'll never do it... and he is going to lose that athleticism soon since he'll be 28 alrdy next year

[p-o-g-i]

From the latest reports, the organization will give both Moon and Kapono every opportunity to earn the starting small forward position. But if Kapono could play the way he did in that Orland series on a regular basis, he would Reggie miller-esque. No offence to Jamario of course.


It'll be wierd to have only one strong PG this upcoming season. We were spoiled last season where you could take one out and still have a pretty potent PG on the floor. There was never really a drop off in capabilities. Now when Jose is out Ukic will be average at best I'm sure (not his fault, he needs time in the NBA and who better to mentor him than Jose).

Hopefully Roko Ukic could be another Jose Calderon type of story. No one has really heard of him, but becuase of the Euro style of play that they bring it would be very welcomed. I've heard nothing but good things about Roko so far.

[LockOut]

I've heard nothing but good things about Roko so far.
That's cuz you're in TO and TO never badmouths their own.... hahaha

I havne't heard anything about him, so I'm not saying that he's not good...

[p-o-g-i]

That's cuz you're in TO and TO never badmouths their own.... hahaha...

Well put :chuckle

Well I'll just be happy if his assist-to-turnover ratio is not high. As long as he can control the rock and get the ball to the scorers... then I'll be satisfied (considering of course that this is his first NBA season).

Since there's basically no chance of Jamal Magloire re- signing with Dalls, anyone else would like to see him in a Raptors uniform?!?!?!?!?

Besides the fact that he is from Toronto, I think he was a legitimate big man. He was great in New Orleans and was better then average in both Portland and Milwaukee. Once he went to New Jersey and then Dallas..... I don't know what happened. I don't know if it was a lack of playing time, loss of motivation, the change of scenery...... but he basically fell off the map.

I still think he could be a serviceable big man though in the NBA.

[S.F.W.]

Magloire is borderline serviceable, but I think a)it would cost too much to sign him and b)where would he play ?

[p-o-g-i]

I could see Magloire as a back up centre to O'Neal. Yes, that should be Bargnani's role, but he could also back up Bosh. Competing in the Eastern conference, basically all 4 of those individuals could play either power position. Again, that's strictly speaking in the perspective of the Eastern Conference.

[Alan]

Isn't Jawai a part of the Raptors-Indy trade? He's a big banger who will probably fill out the 5 with Bargs.

I don't think the Raptors want anything to do with Magloire. The fella hasn't done sheet since that one all-star appearance like 6 years ago lol.

[p-o-g-i]

Isn't Jawai a part of the Raptors-Indy trade? He's a big banger who will probably fill out the 5 with Bargs.

I don't think the Raptors want anything to do with Magloire. The fella hasn't done sheet since that one all-star appearance like 6 years ago lol.

Jawai is part of the Indy trade, but some reports suggest Colangelo wants to sign him on this year, while others say to have him develop over seas for 2 or so years.

The Raptors have no interest in Magloire. It was more of a personal opinion; there is no grounds behind my comments to suggest that the Raptors are interested in Magloire. Colangelo already commented on this possibility last year when New Jersey released him right before Dallas signed him... and he stated that he has no intereset whatsoever in terms of signing the 6'11" big man from Eastern Commerce....

[aylkoo]

Was never a big fan of Magloire anyway, only reason we would want him is because he is from TO ... his game isn't that great, had one or two good years and then it was downhill from there ...

Bargnani better step up this year, wouldn't want to have another wasted first round pick on our hands ... friggin Araujo

[LockOut]

So apparently Bosh's younger brother just joined up for the Raps' summer league. I don't know anything about him, but pretty cool anyways.

[p-o-g-i]

Chris Bosh's younger brother Joel played 4 years at Alabama. He's 22 years old, 6'7", 185 lbs. He plays small forward. I wouldn't look too much into this, unless he has a very impressive summer league...... which no one really expects.

Here is more info on Joel:
http://bamastatesports.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/bosh_joel00.html

[LockOut]

Haha, I wasn't reading anything into it... Just heard it this morning, thought it was pretty funny. I also this that it's pretty hilarious that his "Favorite Athlete" on the site is Big Bro :P

[TheProfessor]

Now that the 9th is here we are finally getting the deals made official.

- JO to the Raps for 'Mee J Ford'
- Matt Devlin named as Chuck Swirsky's replacement
- ACC getting new state of the art scoreboards capable of HD
- Hassan Adams signed to two year deal

The Jose Calderon deal is scheduled to be announced at 3:30pm today.

[p-o-g-i]

"Me J Ford"..... hahaha.... that's classic!

Hassan Adams was a role bit player with New Jersey a couple of years afo, but he averaged over 20 ppg in Italy last year. What does the equate to the NBA...... I dunno????

[LockOut]

Raps just announced the JC signing... "Per team policy, financial considerations were not disclosed"

[p-o-g-i]

i don't know who else watched the Jermaine O'Neal press conference, but I'll admit I was a bit surprised.

While he was with Portland and Indiana, I followed his game, but never really had a chance to watch any of his pre or post game interviews.... not even after the "incident in Detroit". Anyhow, I think he has a really positive attitude and is looking to get a fresh new start. Yes, he could be just saying all of this for the cameras, but I believe him. It's sounds like all the time he decided to take off from last season to rehab his knee is paying off. I can see him having an outstanding season; I'm not worried about that. I'm just worried about him holding up for more then one season (ie T.J. Ford's tenure with Toronto... outstanding first season with us.... then what happend...)

[p-o-g-i]

Anyone else think Baron Davis got punked by signing with the Clippers..... just to see Elton Brand bolt for the 76ers and Corey Maggette bolt for the Warriors....... :chuckle

[S.F.W.]

Anyone else think Baron Davis got punked by signing with the Clippers..... just to see Elton Brand bolt for the 76ers and Corey Maggette bolt for the Warriors....... :chuckle
Big Time! I feel kind of bad, because I love watching Baron play. That said, Elton Brand is the new Carlos Boozer(remember he punked off Cleavland).

[aylkoo]

i don't know who else watched the Jermaine O'Neal press conference, but I'll admit I was a bit surprised.

While he was with Portland and Indiana, I followed his game, but never really had a chance to watch any of his pre or post game interviews.... not even after the "incident in Detroit". Anyhow, I think he has a really positive attitude and is looking to get a fresh new start. Yes, he could be just saying all of this for the cameras, but I believe him. It's sounds like all the time he decided to take off from last season to rehab his knee is paying off. I can see him having an outstanding season; I'm not worried about that. I'm just worried about him holding up for more then one season (ie T.J. Ford's tenure with Toronto... outstanding first season with us.... then what happend...)


P-o-g-i, I had the same feeling. Looks like he has the team first attitude, which is what we need. He said all the right things, will be good to have his toughness here. Was never a big fan, but after the press conference, I was pretty impressed, fairly articulate guy too.

[LockOut]

Yea, he was definitely a better talker than I was expecting. I guess it's just an (unfair) assumption that I made beforehand, but I was impressed, at least with the highlights that I saw.

[p-o-g-i]

Yea, he was definitely a better talker than I was expecting. I guess it's just an (unfair) assumption that I made beforehand, but I was impressed, at least with the highlights that I saw.


... after the press conference, I was pretty impressed, fairly articulate guy too.

Exaclty... I completely agree. I was impressed and found that refreshing. Depending on the players you watch, you can get that feeling that basketball is a street sport.

[p-o-g-i]

Big Time! I feel kind of bad, because I love watching Baron play. That said, Elton Brand is the new Carlos Boozer(remember he punked off Cleavland).

Oh yeah... and then Cleveland hoped that Drew Gooden would be a good replacement for Boozer... but where is Boozer now..... traded off to Chicago.
So I guess you could say in the end that Boozer's departure paved the way for Ben Wallace. Albeit, Ben Wallace is a serviceable player.... but Boozer is in his prime right now.

Hopefully the Clippers can still get somethign done with Josh Smith (or Okafor). Could you imagine a fast break with Baron Davis and Josh Smith?!?!?! Knowing the Clippers luck, either the Hawks will match the Clippers offer.... or Smith won't even sign an offer sheet :chuckle

[p-o-g-i]

....Jawai is part of the Indy trade, but some reports suggest Colangelo wants to sign him on this year, while others say to have him develop over seas for 2 or so years.
....

It's confrimed as the Toronto Raptors have signed forward- centre Nathan Jawai (JA-why) to a 2- year contract today.

Little background knowledge:

- 6'10"
- 280 lbs.
- 2008 ROY of Australian league (NBL) averaging 17.7 ppg and 9.6 rpg in 30 games
-MVP of 2008 NBL All Star game 24 pts and 12 rebounds

[aylkoo]

Andrew Bogut? 60 to 72 million over five years? Has Milwaukee lost their mind?!?! And to pass on Okafor to sign Bogut for that much?

Someone's gonna get fired over this decision ... someone BETTER get fired over this decision

[zmtomako]

well okafor i still see as more of a PF than C.... while bogut is a C for sure.... that could be a reason...

but honestly, Diop was signed for like 5.5mil/yr... that just shows how "valuable" and how much a big 7 footer can earn in the NBA

[aylkoo]

but c'mon, 12 to 14 million a year for Bogut, 5 maybe, 12 to 14 for what he has shown so far is just ridiculous.

[p-o-g-i]

Unfortunately that's the going rate for a big man who 11.9 ppg, 8.5 rpg, and shoots .530 from the field. Yes, his free throw percentage is garbage.... but he also has only been hurt once so far for his 3 year career. He's not spectacular by any means, but he is effeceint.

The Diop deal boggles my mind.... for a guy who has never averaged more then 4 ppg. I agree with the above statement..... big men are a commodity that you can't get by without.

[zmtomako]

Diop makes guys like Rasho look really under paid

[cyberscorpi0]

Latest addition to the Raptors Roster . . .


July 16, 2008

Raptors Sign Roko Ukic

The Toronto Raptors announced Wednesday they have signed guard Roko Ukic (pronounced RO-ko OO-keech) to a three-year contract. Per team policy, financial details were not disclosed. Ukic was a second-round selection (41st overall) by the Raptors in the 2005 NBA Draft.

Ukic, 6-foot-5, 210 pounds, played in Italy last season with Lottomatica Virtus Roma. He averaged career highs of 11.5 points, 2.4 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.1 steals in 19 Euroleague contests. He shot .545 from the field and .824 from the charity stripe. He had a high of 23 points versus Partizan Igokea and eight assists on two occasions (at Real Madrid and at Panathinaikos).

In 34 regular season Italian League outings, Ukic again posted career bests with averages of 11.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.7 steals. He shot .599 from the floor and .748 at the foul line. He totaled a high of 27 points at Tisettanta Cantu. Toronto played against Ukic and Lottomatica during the Raptors’ NBA Europe Live ‘07 visit to Rome. Ukic had 10 points and nine assists in 38 minutes as the Raptors won 93-87.

Ukic, 22, began his professional career in 2000-01 with KK Split (Croatia). He played four seasons with KK Split before moving to Spain and Tau Ceramica Vitoria for the 2005-06 season. He spent the 2006-07 campaign with FC Barcelona. He helped his teams to the 2006 and 2007 Spanish National Championship (King’s Cup).

Ukic is a member of the Croatian National Team and is competing in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Athens, July 14-20.

http://gallery.photo.net/photo/6682141-lg.jpg

[p-o-g-i]

Latest addition to the Raptors Roster . . .



http://gallery.photo.net/photo/6682141-lg.jpg

Sweet!!!!! I'm a huge fan of his. A 6'5" PG with handles is a great commodity.

[b.rabbit]

Shaq to the Raptors?

http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Breaking-news-Shaq-traded-to-Raptors-;_ylt=AhoUo9HO.0Ji04bsmPPUj6BShgM6?urn=nba,94979

hahaa...

[FLIPDADY]

Good one...Jamario would have to give up his number.

[p-o-g-i]

If Shaq ever came to the Raptors, we would have to trade away half the team just to match his salary... hahaha. Sorry big man, but I don't think too many Torontonians would be happy with that.

[p-o-g-i]

Anyone else read in the Toronto Star the other day how Carlos Delfino is not in the Raptors plans for next year? I find that a little weird as they have made a qualifying offer to him a restricted free agent......

I know it happened last week, but it looks as if Carlos Delfino is now headed to Europe. He signed a reported 3-year $30 million deal with BC Khimki.
I knew that unfortunately he would not fit into Toronto's plans due to teh salary cap, but even Detroit lucked out as the Pistons were making a pitch to bring Delfino back.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080718/SPORTS03/80718082&s=d&page=2#pluckcomments

[RallyPlaya]

I Met Jamrio Moon @ Walmart last Saturday..... Really nice guy to talk to... he had a charity bbq event held there

[p-o-g-i]

I Met Jamrio Moon @ Walmart last Saturday..... Really nice guy to talk to... he had a charity bbq event held there

Yeah i heard he was there at the Heartland Wal Mart. My Dad gave me a ring to head over there for pictures/ autograph... but unfortunately I just didn't have the bandwidth. My time was stretched as it was with the move. The only Raptors I ever got to meet and talk to in person were with Jose Calderon at a Blue Jays game last year, and Menke Bateer (anyone remember his brief stint) when he made a public appearence at Pacific Mall... haha, go figure... someone from China in Pacific Mall... hahaha.

[aylkoo]

Hey if anyone hears of any other appearances, post earlier!!

Met Kapono, Calderon, and Parker at a Raptors autograph session. My wife also met Bosh and Colangelo ...

http://inlinethumb26.webshots.com/40921/2818375560029372799S425x425Q85.jpg

http://inlinethumb43.webshots.com/35050/2046629840029372799S425x425Q85.jpg

http://inlinethumb52.webshots.com/38963/2924739310029372799S425x425Q85.jpg

http://inlinethumb39.webshots.com/40742/2421913510029372799S425x425Q85.jpg

http://inlinethumb23.webshots.com/40534/2742064970029372799S425x425Q85.jpg

[TheProfessor]

I watched a MLS TFC game with Joey Graham last year (we were both in the MLSE private box with a bunch of other people). He was/is a really cool down to earth guy.

My brother in law just got a job with the Raptors/MLSE so I'm hoping I can milk that this season. Group TM3 Raptors game anyone (seriously, I can likely get us a discount if we do a group).

[aylkoo]

Group TM3 Raptors game anyone (seriously, I can likely get us a discount if we do a group).

That's sweet!! I'm there!!

[LockOut]

My brother in law just got a job with the Raptors/MLSE so I'm hoping I can milk that this season..
How did he land that? I'm looking for a new job, and that would be amazing to get in there... haha

[sauga_kid]

My brother in law just got a job with the Raptors/MLSE so I'm hoping I can milk that this season. Group TM3 Raptors game anyone (seriously, I can likely get us a discount if we do a group).

I had a buddy who use to work for them too, the perks were great but the pay wasn't all that, after a while, the lack of pay outweighed the perks and he ended up leaving. TM3 Raps game? I'm down!

[RallyPlaya]

^^^ I Would be Down for a TM3 Raptors game as well...i cant want to see the JO CB4 Combo @ Work live....lets get some good tickets maybe lower ball....ive sat @ the 12$ tickets and they are horrible!!!

[TheProfessor]

Alright, once I get some specifics from him I'll post em up. If we can get enough people together we can get a reduced group rate. He just started with them this week. He interned there last summer while in University and I guess they liked him enough that when they had an opening this year they gave him first dibs. The pay isn't great, but it's not bad either, especially for somebody who just finished university.

[p-o-g-i]

......

My brother in law just got a job with the Raptors/MLSE so I'm hoping I can milk that this season. Group TM3 Raptors game anyone (seriously, I can likely get us a discount if we do a group).

I would be so all over this :bana2

[TheProfessor]

Okay guys, I'll definately keep this in mind as we get closer to the new season. Once the schedule is released we can figure out which game we'd all want to go and see. There are a lot of new/fresh teams this year so there shouldn't be a problem picking one. I'll also try and get some rates for us so we can decide which section we want to be in.

[visco9]

sweet, really excited to see O'Neal and Bosh dominating the paint and the boards. Open up out outside shooters. GO RAPS

[Alan]

Willie Solomon welcome to Toronto lol

we got our 3rd PG --> kind of weird, thought one of Lucas or Danny Ewing were gonna take the 3rd PG slot.

[p-o-g-i]

....kind of weird, thought one of Lucas or Danny Ewing were gonna take the 3rd PG slot.

I thought as well that they would pick up a 3rd guard though the summer league action, but you know how management loves euro experienced players (especially euro experienced vets).

So as it stands, here is our current roster:

NUM PLAYER POS HT WT DOB FROM YRS
8 Hassan Adams F 6-4 220 06/20/1984 Arizona 1
7 Andrea Bargnani C-F 7-0 250 10/26/1985 Italy 2
4 Chris Bosh F 6-10 230 03/24/1984 Georgia Tech 5
8 Jose Calderon G 6-3 210 09/28/1981 Spain 3
14 Joey Graham F 6-7 225 06/11/1982 Oklahoma State 3
43 Kris Humphries F 6-9 235 02/06/1985 Minnesota 4
Nathan Jawai F-C 6-10 280 10/10/1986 Midland Coll. TX (J.C.) R
24 Jason Kapono F 6-8 215 02/04/1981 UCLA 5
33 Jamario Moon F 6-8 205 06/13/1980 Meridian CC (MS) 1
Jermaine O'Neal C-F 6-11 260 10/13/1978 Eau Claire HS (SC) 12
18 Anthony Parker G-F 6-6 215 06/19/1975 Bradley 5
Willie Solomon G 6-1 185 07/20/1978 Clemson 1
Roko Ukic G 6-5 183 05/12/1984 Croatia R

[sauga_kid]

NUM PLAYER POS HT WT DOB FROM YRS
8 Hassan Adams F 6-4 220 06/20/1984 Arizona 1
7 Andrea Bargnani C-F 7-0 250 10/26/1985 Italy 2
4 Chris Bosh F 6-10 230 03/24/1984 Georgia Tech 5
8 Jose Calderon G 6-3 210 09/28/1981 Spain 3
14 Joey Graham F 6-7 225 06/11/1982 Oklahoma State 3
43 Kris Humphries F 6-9 235 02/06/1985 Minnesota 4
Nathan Jawai F-C 6-10 280 10/10/1986 Midland Coll. TX (J.C.) R
24 Jason Kapono F 6-8 215 02/04/1981 UCLA 5
33 Jamario Moon F 6-8 205 06/13/1980 Meridian CC (MS) 1
Jermaine O'Neal C-F 6-11 260 10/13/1978 Eau Claire HS (SC) 12
18 Anthony Parker G-F 6-6 215 06/19/1975 Bradley 5
Willie Solomon G 6-1 185 07/20/1978 Clemson 1
Roko Ukic G 6-5 183 05/12/1984 Croatia R

Adams and Calderon are both wearing number 8?

[Alan]

yeah that's what it says on the Raptors official site hahha

it's good for the chinese population, we love our 8's man

[LockOut]

Hahaha, Chinese or not, I'm pretty sure that the scorers will hate it :chuckle

[Alan]

haha, man, my mom hates it if i wear my Bosh jersey (#4 !!!) lol

[aylkoo]

too bad there is no jersey number 84 or 48 ... lol

[p-o-g-i]

Adams and Calderon are both wearing number 8?

That's Adams old # from when he last played in the league.
Hmmmmmm, I wonder who will have dibs on this jersey #?????? hahahaha... like I really need to ask :chuckle



On a seperate note, it looks as if the Ron Artest to Houston deal is nearing completion. If he can stay in line and not be a distraction, he would definitely improve this team to one of the top 3 teams in the West. Great pick up for Houston!!!!

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3510261

[p-o-g-i]

Anyone else see the China vs. Spain game the other day!?!?!?!?!!? What a fantastic game, right from start to finsih!!!! It was a see- saw battle all the way through, that ended in overtime. Here are some of the details, highlights, and lowlights.....

_____ 1 2 3 4 OT TOT
China 18 28 15 11 3 75
Spain 20 17 10 25 13 85

LIU Wei 19pts
SUN Yue 4PF, 2pts
YI Jianlian 9reb
YAO Ming 9reb, 5PF, 11pts
WANG Zhizhi 15pts

GASOL Pau 8reb, 29pts
FERNANDEZ Rudy 8reb, 21pts
NAVARRO Juan Carlos 8pts
CALDERON Jose Manuel 6rbs, 1ast, 2pts
LOPEZ Raul 0pts, 0ast, 2reb
GASOL Marc 5reb, 8pts
GARBAJOSA Jorge 3reb, 0pts

For the Raptors fans:
NAME MIN FG 3PT FT REBOUNDS AS PF ST TO BS PTS
NAME MIN M/A FG % M/A % M/A % OR DR TOT AS PF ST TO BS PTS
CALDERON Jose Manuel 22:41 1/6 17 0/2 0 0 0 2 4 6 1 1 1 2 0 2
GARBAJOSA Jorge 17:48 0/4 0 0/3 0 0 0 1 2 3 2 1 0 1 0 0

[p-o-g-i]

Gold Medalists
Player (NBA Team) Team
Carmelo Anthony (Denver Nuggets) United States
Carlos Boozer (Utah Jazz) United States
Chris Bosh (Toronto Raptors) United States
Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers) United States
Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic) United States
LeBron James (Cleveland Cavaliers) United States
Jason Kidd (Dallas Mavericks) United States
Chris Paul (New Orleans Hornets) United States
Tayshaun Prince (Detroit Pistons) United States
Michael Redd (Milwaukee Bucks) United States
Dwyane Wade (Miami Heat) United States
Deron Williams (Utah Jazz) United States

Silver Medalists
Jose-Manuel Calderon (Toronto Raptors) Spain
Rudy Fernandez (Portland Trail Blazers) Spain
Jorge Garbajosa (Toronto Raptors 07 – 08) Spain
Marc Gasol (Memphis Grizzlies) Spain
Pau Gasol (Los Angeles Lakers) Spain
Raul Lopez (Utah Jazz 02 – 05) Spain
Juan Carlos Navarro (Memphis Grizzlies 07 – 08) Spain

Bronze Medalists
Carlos Delfino (Toronto Raptors 07 – 08, Detroit Pistons 04 – 07) Argentina
Manu Ginobili (San Antonio Spurs) Argentina
Andres Nocioni (Chicago Bulls) Argentina
Fabricio Oberto (San Antonio Spurs) Argentina
Luis Scola (Houston Rockets) Argentina

[TheProfessor]

Give credit to Spain for making it such a close game, and without Jose to boot.

I'm really pumped for the 08/09 season, can't wait. Now that my bro in law works for the Raps I'm going to try and go to more games than my usual 3-5 per season.

[aylkoo]

I'm really pumped for the 08/09 season, can't wait.

Me too, I think we have a pretty good team this year ... hopefully we can get past the first round!!

[redman]

can't wait for the season to start

[FLIPDADY]

Gonna see a lot of games this season. Hopefully Bosh's success in the Beijing will make him a stronger force on the court.

[Aitch]

^^ Bosh looked like he's packed on some muscle!

[p-o-g-i]

The trade rumour is probably dead by now, but I thought I would throw it out there to see what people thought.....

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=aw-livingstonworkout091208&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

Heat And Bulls Discuss Trade

"......In fact, Miami has been exploring a lot of possibilities, including, three sources told Yahoo! Sports, recent discussions with the Chicago Bulls on several trade scenarios that included Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks for unsigned restricted free agent Ben Gordon, Larry Hughes and possibly Joakim Noah. Yet, those talks died within the past seven to 10 days and sources said there was no indication they would be restarted."

[aylkoo]

This period of dead basketball is KILLING me!!!!!! Get to the regular season already!!!!!

[zmtomako]

not to mention nba 2k9 and live 2k9 arent out yet to help with the cravings....

[Go_Habs_Go]

I'm curious to see how Nash and the Suns do this year. I hope they can pull it together with Shaq! If he avoids injuries and gets hot around the playoffs...maybe, just maybe, then can do some damage...oh well it's the same thing every year with the Suns, lots of promise but no execution in the playoffs.

But hey at least Nash gives us something to cheer for!

GO NASH!!!!!! :)

[aylkoo]

I have only played the demo version of 2k8, was debating whether to get live 09 this year or 2k9. I know that the live 09 has the real-time update feature this year, which is pretty cool ... will have to check the 2k9 to see what's new ...

Any opinions on which to purchase this year?

[p-o-g-i]

I came across this article involving Jamaal Tinsley of the Indiana Pacers:

http://blogs.indystar.com/pacersinsider/archives/2008/09/dc_not_an_optio.html

"....Don't expect Tinsley, who is supposedly healthy, to be at the team's media day on Sept. 29 or the first day of training camp the next day. Anybody that has followed the NBA this offseason knows the Pacers don't want anything to do with Tinsley anymore....."


I can't believe how public this has gone out in terms of having this guy on the team!?!?! I know they traded for TJ Ford (who is definitely an upgrade), but he's technically still on the team so alot of this should have been kept internally until he actually is traded/ waived/ released. I know he's injury prone, but he's still a professional athlete and a human being.

Yes, professional sports is business.... but I just couldn't help but wonder how Jamaal feels about all this negativity regarding himself.

[zmtomako]

some times you wonder how players can stay motivated, hard working and loyal to the team and fans when these kinda things happen...

[p-o-g-i]

FInally, looks like the Stephon Marbury/ New York Knicks marriage is about to come to an end:

http://www.newsday.com/sports/basketball/ny-spknix235854514sep23,0,276067.story

Looks like the plan is to plaice Stephon Marbury on waivers. Chances are he'll clear waivers as no team is insane enough to pay Starbury the $21.9 million he's owed for the final year of his contract. Once he clears waivers, the Knicks will work out a buyout so he can become a free agent.

I know he's past his prime, but he still has some juice in him. I can see him helping a team, like Miami, who is in desperate need of a point guard.

[06Touring3]

Does miami even have anyone familiar on their squad anymore besides Wade? Is white chocolate sill playing for them (Jason Williams)?

[zmtomako]

the clippers signed jason williams...
heat still has haslem and wright from their team 2 years ago besides wade

[faibs]

I'm curious to see how Nash and the Suns do this year. I hope they can pull it together with Shaq! If he avoids injuries and gets hot around the playoffs...maybe, just maybe, then can do some damage...oh well it's the same thing every year with the Suns, lots of promise but no execution in the playoffs.

But hey at least Nash gives us something to cheer for!

GO NASH!!!!!! :)

would be nice if he and a few others actually played for their country during international competitions...

[aylkoo]

Discussion on NBA 2K and Live

http://www.hoopsvibe.com/nba/flagrant-foul/nba-2k-vs-nba-live-ar49000.html

[S.F.W.]

Discussion on NBA 2K and Live

http://www.hoopsvibe.com/nba/flagrant-foul/nba-2k-vs-nba-live-ar49000.html

interesting article. Looks like 2K for me this year.

[zmtomako]

yea im gonna stick with 2k as well...
i dunno how reliable the DNA thing is going to be in the 1st year... and i still think gameplay and AI is better for 2k as well

[p-o-g-i]

Does miami even have anyone familiar on their squad anymore besides Wade? Is white chocolate sill playing for them (Jason Williams)?

I know he comes with some baggage, but you can't count out the 2nd pick in the draft Michael Beasley. I can see his stats being similar to Kenyon Martin's in his rookie season.

[Alan]

Anybody check out the new black jerseys yet? I thought i heard there was going to be an official release either this Thursday or the next.

There were some pics leaked of a Calderon one. Black, with TORONTO on the front, and the Canadian red trim on the sides, and a maple leaf on the back instead of the claw.

[p-o-g-i]

Anybody check out the new black jerseys yet? I thought i heard there was going to be an official release either this Thursday or the next.

There were some pics leaked of a Calderon one. Black, with TORONTO on the front, and the Canadian red trim on the sides, and a maple leaf on the back instead of the claw.

Sweet!!! Can't wait to see a pic of it.

[b.rabbit]

I think I heard this morning that the Raptors unveiled it today? I could be wrong though!

In any case, I think it would look sweet. Black, with red side trims and the Canadian logo above the player's name = Cool! :bana

[Alan]

yeah it's on the raptors website! i think they look hot. Gotta cop a JO one probably.
Almost have the entire set haha.
Bosh, Jose, Barg so far, JO next :)

[b.rabbit]

I just took a look at the new uniforms. I like it a lot! Red and Black really go well together. I also like how they've put "TORONTO" back on the front of the away uniforms.

[zmtomako]

kinda looks like the canadian national team jerseys though, no?
but i still like it... and wer canada's basketball team anyways so its ok hahaha

[p-o-g-i]

http://www.sportsline.com/nba/story/10996674

I can't believe Jason Williams announced his retirement already. He's only played 10 seasons. I know he's on the tail end of his career at the age of 33, but he still had the legs on him to keep moving till his late 30's. I know he was a little eratic in his early years in Sacremento, but with Memphis and Miami... his game really came together. What boggles my mind is how he just signed on with the LA Clippers within the last couple of weeks..... ?!?!?!?!

I'll always remember him though for his "elbow pass"..... sweet!!!!

Check out this tribute:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9__nILRaXg&feature=related

[RallyPlaya]

Wow I Want To See These New Jerseys

[aylkoo]

Apparently, the Raptors are the only team that have been approved for wearing a warm-up hoodie in warm-up. Saw one at Upper Canada Mall, looks pretty nice, but thought kind of weird to wear hoodie for warm-up.

[p-o-g-i]

Apparently, the Raptors are the only team that have been approved for wearing a warm-up hoodie in warm-up. Saw one at Upper Canada Mall, looks pretty nice, but thought kind of weird to wear hoodie for warm-up.

Agreed. If the hood is on, I feel like my vision just got narrowed... and if it's off, it would sway around too much as I run. But hey.. that's just me...

[p-o-g-i]

http://www.nba.com/raptors/news/jamalsampson_pressrelease.html

"The Toronto Raptors announced Monday they have signed free-agent power forward-centre Jamal Sampson.......

...... Sampson, 6-foot-11, 235 pounds, is a five-year NBA veteran who has spent time with Denver, Sacramento, Charlotte, the Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee......

..... Sampson has appeared in 72 career NBA games, averaging 2.0 points and 3.4 rebounds......"

I know abolutely nothing about this guy's game. I've heard the name mentioned around, but I've never seen this guy play before. But if he's anything like his cousin Raplh Sampson, I'll be more then happy. I'm pretty sure the majority of you guys will not remember him, but he played in the 80's on the Rockets and Kings. Seviceable centre who did a little of everything.

[aylkoo]

I'm pretty sure the majority of you guys will not remember him, but he played in the 80's on the Rockets and Kings. Seviceable centre who did a little of everything.


Ralph Sampson, of course, the twin towers with Olajuwon. I agree, if Jamal has even half the athleticism as Ralph, he'd be great for backup centre.

[Alan]

I read something that Jawai had some cardiac problems, and the Raptors are holding him back until results come back, which is probably why Sampson was signed.

[Alan]

Are you ready for some pre-season action?
SO EXCITED lol. cavs and raps woot

[aylkoo]

It's about FRIGGIN time ... Going to the game on Wed!! :)

[Alan]

damn you lol, im jealous.

http://www.realgm.com/boards/viewtopic.php?f=32&t=841927

Some clips from the Ottawa Scrimmage they had on the 4th. Bargs looks buffer, and i think they said he was at 262 right now

[aylkoo]

ODEN IS A BEAST!!!!

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=Sj9en6BXcHc

[zmtomako]

it'd be interesting to see what kind of numbers oden and aldridge will put up together...

... though that makes me not want to draft either one of them until the later rounds in my fantasy pool...

[Alan]

i think Oden and LaMarcus are going to be awesome lol

Aldridge takes a lot of 15 foot jumpers, so Oden will get his space. Damn the man looked like a beast last night.

[zmtomako]

i still think superman howard is more dominant
... that or oden needs more conditioning to get back into game shape

oden is a beast, but howard is just a MONSTER

[LockOut]

My company has season seats to the Raps, and I have a list of basically the lower tier teams in front of me. Anyone have suggestions on what teams to go see?

[zmtomako]

what do u have as the "lower tier" teams?

if its up to me, all raps games are good games to see hahaha

[LockOut]

Oh, they're going to be good... But I meant that basically all the Orlando, Detroit, Cleveland, Boston, LAL, NO, etc. games are gone.

I had the option for Portland, but I can't go. I settled on Charlotte, Dallas, Minnesota and Indiana. Should be a good year.

[cyberscorpi0]

Raptors vs. 76ers. I'll be cheering "GO RAPS GO" @ ACC this Sunday!

It will be interesting to see the new look Philly 76ers.

[p-o-g-i]

ODEN IS A BEAST!!!!

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=Sj9en6BXcHc

nice find.
can you imagine if Oden plays like this the entire season!?!? I realy hope that last year's injuries are now a thing of the past....

[p-o-g-i]

i still think superman howard is more dominant
... that or oden needs more conditioning to get back into game shape

oden is a beast, but howard is just a MONSTER

I agree, at this point Dwight Howard is a more dominating force then Greg Oden, but they do have 2 completely different games at this point. As of right now, Greg's game is more about fundamentals (a la Tim Duncan).

[zmtomako]

oden definitely has better athleticism than duncan...
oden seems to have a good game and body for it, but definitely has no range at this point

[aylkoo]

Very few 'back to the basket' centres in the NBA now, nice to see that Oden will show some post moves ... Oh the good old days of McHale and his post moves, they were awesome. Even Barkley said he was the most difficult person to guard ...

[p-o-g-i]

Very few 'back to the basket' centres in the NBA now, nice to see that Oden will show some post moves ... Oh the good old days of McHale and his post moves, they were awesome. Even Barkley said he was the most difficult person to guard ...

I agree.. Kevin McHale was an awesome PF (of course when he wasn't hurt). Good you imagine the possibility of how many (more) championships the Celtics could have won if Bird, Mchale, and Parrish stayed healthy.... ?!?!?!?.

Sir Charles is one of my favorite players of all time. He was generously listed at 6'6" as he was really closer to almost 6'5". Yes he talked alot, but he was able to back up talking smack. I was hoping that Larry Johnson was going to be the next coming of Barkley, but I think LJ may have even retired before Barkley did.. hahah.

[aylkoo]

Anyone else got NBA 2k9 for xbox360 and find that the game is freezing when you try to develop players during association mode?

[zmtomako]

i was just freezing in 2k9 for ps3 while trying to play online...
... totally irrelevant post by me... well, not totally, but yea...

[Alan]

bring on minnesota haha

anyone kind of sad Hoffa got cut a few days ago by Minny. That would have been nostalgic lol

[zmtomako]

to this date i still wonder why he was ever drafted so high...

[Alan]

I don't blame Babcock entirely for the pick, Hoffa was Embry's idea. Babcock took the job and only had I believe 2 weeks to scout, and Embry told Babcock that Hoffa was the main man lol, and what a disaster.

just imagine if we had drafted AI2, Josh Smith, or hell, even JR Smith

[b.rabbit]

if weren't for Hoffa, we wouldn't have Humphries! ;P

[zmtomako]

im happy with our team now...
BC seriously... amazing job...

my questions and concerns for the raptors this year

1) can JO stay healthy
2) can moon please start driving
3) can calderon keep up playing heavy minutes every night
4) can bargs finally emerge as a consistent player and at his potential level
5) on a similar note, is this going to be joey grahams breakout year
6) can someone pass the ball to kapono so he can shoot more
7) can ukic adapt quick enough to the NBA game

[Alan]

i wish last nights game was broadcasted. JO finally blows up, i think 20 - 9 and 5 blocks. him and both = CN and Skylon Towers lol

tonight, vs the Lakers in LA. 10:30pm start time ET

[p-o-g-i]

IMO, I think Rafael Araujo could have done alot better under a different coach/ coaching staff/ mentors. As a rookie, he really didn't get much guidence other then go out there and use your body. Yes, you can't teach size..... but no one really sat down with him to go over basic big man fundamentals. I would like to see what a coaching staff like New Orleans with Byron Scott, or (at that time) Phoenix with Mike D'Antoni. Those guys know how to get the most out of their players.

Sam is a great coach in his own right, but his strategy is more towards let the players work it out for themselves.... give them the freedom and see what they can do. Araujo is the kind of player that needs to be coached and shown discipline and direction. He's an X's and O's kind of player.

[p-o-g-i]

1) can JO stay healthy
I doubt it. I predict him playing 65-70 games this year... but will be ready for the playoffs :)
2) can moon please start driving
Tell me about it, the only thing more irretating(?) is watching Yao Ming go in uncontested... to watch him to a layup.... WTF?!?!?!
3) can calderon keep up playing heavy minutes every night
I think so. I just hope he doesn't get burnt our for the playoffs.
4) can bargs finally emerge as a consistent player and at his potential level
I can see him playing a 6th man role.... similar to how Toni Kukoc was with Chicago.
5) on a similar note, is this going to be joey grahams breakout year
I see him leaving Toronto with no ill feelings, but being very productive with another team. This would be like a Chauncey Billups situation all over again... hahah... j/k.
6) can someone pass the ball to kapono so he can shoot more
I thought Kapono would be good, but I never thought he would have the potential to be this good (or at least what I've see so far). I wonder how he could do with some major minutes...????
7) can ukic adapt quick enough to the NBA game
I have not doubt in his abilities whatsoever. He's always asking questions, which is great. This guy loves to learn and is still no where near his prime...

[Alan]

BREAKING NEWS!!!
The game wasnt supposed to be broadcast, but in fact, will be on RAPTORS TV at 10:30pm

vs the LAKERS in Los Angeles


RAPTORS TV - ExpressVu Ch 415!!!

[MRT_MS3]

For people that have Rogers Cable, I heard that 25 Raptors game will air in TSN2 which you have to order through rogers and only 2 games will in Raptors TV. :flaming

[b.rabbit]

Star dimming, O’Neal sees bright times in Toronto

http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=AiyFEoX9UV3eG4iunVDtnd5ShgM6?slug=jy-onealraptors102308&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

[p-o-g-i]

http://www.nba.com/raptors/news/jamalsampson_pressrelease.html

"The Toronto Raptors announced Monday they have signed free-agent power forward-centre Jamal Sampson.......

...... Sampson, 6-foot-11, 235 pounds, is a five-year NBA veteran who has spent time with Denver, Sacramento, Charlotte, the Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee......

..... Sampson has appeared in 72 career NBA games, averaging 2.0 points and 3.4 rebounds......"

I know abolutely nothing about this guy's game. I've heard the name mentioned around, but I've never seen this guy play before. But if he's anything like his cousin Ralph Sampson, I'll be more then happy. I'm pretty sure the majority of you guys will not remember him, but he played in the 80's on the Rockets and Kings. Seviceable centre who did a little of everything.

So much for that.....

I know it happend just a couple of days ago, but FYI- this dude got waived already.

I vote to take a chance on Austin Croshere :chuckle

[zmtomako]

a roster of 13... lets just hope no big injuries hit us this season

[aylkoo]

Mighty Mouse is available, maybe he would like to come back and back up Jose ...

[p-o-g-i]

Mighty Mouse is available, maybe he would like to come back and back up Jose ...

I would be all for that if Roko Ukic wasn't on the roster. I can see Roko being a quality backup down the road. If Damon were to come on board now and play some quality minutes, it may discourage Roko.

[p-o-g-i]

http://www.nypost.com/seven/10272008/sports/knicks/knicks_cut_ewing_jr__135547.htm

I thought Ewing (Jr.) had some decent skills. Yeah, he's not a starter by any means, but I thought he was a decent 7th-8th man.

[FLIPDADY]

Great start to the new season!

We got some good numbers from the 2 big guys.

[b.rabbit]

Great start to the new season!

We got some good numbers from the 2 big guys.

Great game! Looking forward to seeing the potential this team has! I hope O'Neal can stay healthy!

[sauga_kid]

Agreed, provided JO can stay healthy and put up the numbers he did tonight, he'll prove to be a really good pick up!

[zmtomako]

actually scared me for a sec in the 1st quarter when we couldnt buy a bucket...

but seriously, raptors are still no good at boxing out stopping guys like Dalembert from getting OREBs

[Kevin@nextmod]

Fun game to watch tonight. I was so excited and pumped watching it.

[b.rabbit]

Fun game to watch tonight. I was so excited and pumped watching it.

I can't wait for the home opener!

[LockOut]

I can't wait for the home opener!

It's goign to be awesome. I'll be there, in costume! Hahaha... it should be a fun game... never been to one on Halloween before. Look for me, I'll be the retro cop :chuckle

I was really impressed with Roko last night. He sure gave Jose a good rest (I think he played 16+ minutes), and definitely could hold his own. The big 2 played really well. JO's dunk on Dalembert was incredible.

[b.rabbit]

I thought this was funny.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-S_soY5Jg_Q

[aylkoo]

It's goign to be awesome. I'll be there, in costume! Hahaha... it should be a fun game... never been to one on Halloween before. Look for me, I'll be the retro cop :chuckle

I was really impressed with Roko last night. He sure gave Jose a good rest (I think he played 16+ minutes), and definitely could hold his own. The big 2 played really well. JO's dunk on Dalembert was incredible.


I'll be there too, the place better be ROCKIN'

Not dressin up though ... will look for a retro cop ... :)

Roko looked good, very crafty with the ball, that behind the back dribble on the break is a very good sign!!

[b.rabbit]

That was an awesome home opener, in terms of the game. Lots of antsy moments in there, the game was close all along.

The game came down to the wire, we got OT, and we even got free pizza for the Raptors scoring over 100 points.

To top it off, I was on the jumbotron! W00T! First time ever!!! That was the highlight of my night!

GO RAPS GO!

Oh and I got a black Calderon jersey! I love those new 3rd jerseys!

[aylkoo]

What a game!! What a way to start the season, BIG BLOCK by O'Neal ... Got no voice today.

Good crowd, hope every game will be this loud!

[Alan]

Nice, did you pick up the swingman? How much by any chance? 125?

Let's get ready for Milwaukee tonight!!!

[b.rabbit]

Nice, did you pick up the swingman? How much by any chance? 125?

Let's get ready for Milwaukee tonight!!!

Yeah, I picked up the swingman and it was close to $125.

However, if you plan on getting a Calderon, you'll have to get a blank jersey and then they'll put on the numbers and letters for Calderon. For some reason, Adidas didn't make any Calderon jerseys (I never found out why). So, I'd hold back and buy later if you wanted a Calderon. The stitching of the "8" is a little different from say, Parker's "8" in his "18".

[jaimie08mazda3]

hmmm raptors are 3-0, so far so good people. i see a good team this year. same with the leafs. young team's are good teams.

[Alan]

Yeah, I picked up the swingman and it was close to $125.

However, if you plan on getting a Calderon, you'll have to get a blank jersey and then they'll put on the numbers and letters for Calderon. For some reason, Adidas didn't make any Calderon jerseys (I never found out why). So, I'd hold back and buy later if you wanted a Calderon. The stitching of the "8" is a little different from say, Parker's "8" in his "18".

Good to know, yeah, my white Calderon jersey was made when I was at the game lol. At half-time, i went to the concession stands,and he told me it would be done by start of the 4th Q. Comparing it to my Bosh and Bargnani jerseys (from Foot Locker and the NBA store, the stiching on mine looks exactly the same)

[b.rabbit]

hmmm raptors are 3-0, so far so good people. i see a good team this year. same with the leafs. young team's are good teams.

Even though the record states we're 3-0, which is a great thing, the Raptors could've easily been 0-3 as well with how close each game has been.

Raptors need to start better and they also need to hold the lead better.

However, on the bright side, I'm liking what I see from JO so far! His presence on the inside is being noted! Did you see him stuff Jefferson last night?