Why did the Cavaliers have a media gathering on draft day if absolutely nothing was going to happen? Perhaps the media felt it needed to be present in case Danny Ferry acquired a second rounder. I hope the food and beverages were worth the trip.
As you can see, this corner is going ride Danny Ferry until he significantly improves the roster. We gave him the lowest grade of any Cavalier personnel in 2006-07 - including team, coach and ownership - for a reason.
The fact that he was groomed in the "San Antonio System" does not impress us. His moves to date have been less than stellar.
Damon Jones and Donyell Marshall have not worked out. They were brought to Cleveland to assume the role Ferry himself had in San Antonio - to make open jumpers, and neither has played consistently well in that limited role.
His biggest pick-up - Larry Hughes - has been an investment flop when you consider the price Hughes, a player who flourished in Washington's up tempo, has not been able to be that second scorer the Cavs were hoping to acquire when they threw $12 million a year at him. He has been fragile, as his resume indicated coming in, and has not been a significant contributor in the playoffs.
In Ferry's defense, Hughes was probably the best available player on the market at the time since Ray Allen and Michael Redd opted to re-sign with their respective clubs. Still, it doesn't take much talent to throw ownership's money around.
His draft grade is yet to be determined. Ferry gets kudos for acquiring Daniel Gibson in the second round, but the jury is still out on his #1 pick of two years ago - Shannon Brown.
We would argue there would be much more heat on Ferry if 23 hadn't turned in an MJ-like performance in game #5 at Detroit to steal that series. Fortunately for Ferry and the organization, the Cavaliers can now fall back on "We made it to the Finals for the first time and won 50 games for the second straight year."
That may appease long-suffering fans from a PR standpoint, but those who truly understand the game know this team needs a serious influx of talent if the goal is to win a championship before 23's contract expires.
Chicago will continue to get better, Detroit's management team will not sit still, and there are several other teams in the East with more young talent on their roster than Cleveland.
Get to work Danny.
Friday, June 29, 2007
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Kelly Shoppach & Anderson Varejao
Excellent Backstop
Kelly Shoppach gives the Indians tremendous security - not only behind the plate but in case Travis Haffner is lost through a trade or free agency in '08. The Tribe needs to get him more ABs - perhaps playing him at least half the time behind the dish while moving Victor Martinez to first or DHing Martinez on occasion. Shoppach is a much better defensive catcher with a stronger and more accurate throwing arm. The guy is also currently hitting a ton - albeit in limited action.
It would be wise to sign Shoppach now to a long-term deal - giving the team what very few major league clubs have - depth behind the plate.
Also, if Haffner balks at signing an extension prior to the summer of '08, the Tribe can deal him and feel good about moving Martinez to first/DH and plugging Shoppach in behind the plate full-time. With 500 ABs, he (KS) might be able to give them 20+ HRs and one of the league's better defensive catchers.
Bad Vibes
I am worried. I have had two wise sportswriter friends recently mention to me that the Cavaliers might not re-sign Anderson Varejao if he signs a restricted mega-deal with another team.
That's bad news!
AV is a MUST SIGN for that organization - even if someone offers him a $8-10 million a year deal - which is likely. How are the Cavaliers a better team by letting one of their three best players leave?
They aren't.
He's (AV) extremely young, works hard, rebounds well and doesn't need the ball to be effective. Coaches love him for a reason. Someone will offer him huge money. He's restricted -which means the Cavaliers have no one to blame but themselves if he walks.
Sign him now or match the offer that awaits. Danny Ferry will need to deal Gooden to make cap room for AV - but that's okay. Gooden can be used in a deal to bring in a point guard who can actually make a jumper. AV simply has more market value and is a better player than Gooden or Z - the team's starting 4 & 5, and should be paid accordingly.
If the Cavaliers balk at re-signing him - they will be making another serious management/talent evaluation mistake. They don't have many players with upside - they can't afford to let one walk away.
Now if they work a sign and trade with him and others involving KG - that's another story. Unfortunately, the Cavaliers (read: Danny Ferry & company) don't seem to have the &#@* to reach that deep. We'll see.
I'll keep banging that drum until my arms fall off.
Kelly Shoppach gives the Indians tremendous security - not only behind the plate but in case Travis Haffner is lost through a trade or free agency in '08. The Tribe needs to get him more ABs - perhaps playing him at least half the time behind the dish while moving Victor Martinez to first or DHing Martinez on occasion. Shoppach is a much better defensive catcher with a stronger and more accurate throwing arm. The guy is also currently hitting a ton - albeit in limited action.
It would be wise to sign Shoppach now to a long-term deal - giving the team what very few major league clubs have - depth behind the plate.
Also, if Haffner balks at signing an extension prior to the summer of '08, the Tribe can deal him and feel good about moving Martinez to first/DH and plugging Shoppach in behind the plate full-time. With 500 ABs, he (KS) might be able to give them 20+ HRs and one of the league's better defensive catchers.
Bad Vibes
I am worried. I have had two wise sportswriter friends recently mention to me that the Cavaliers might not re-sign Anderson Varejao if he signs a restricted mega-deal with another team.
That's bad news!
AV is a MUST SIGN for that organization - even if someone offers him a $8-10 million a year deal - which is likely. How are the Cavaliers a better team by letting one of their three best players leave?
They aren't.
He's (AV) extremely young, works hard, rebounds well and doesn't need the ball to be effective. Coaches love him for a reason. Someone will offer him huge money. He's restricted -which means the Cavaliers have no one to blame but themselves if he walks.
Sign him now or match the offer that awaits. Danny Ferry will need to deal Gooden to make cap room for AV - but that's okay. Gooden can be used in a deal to bring in a point guard who can actually make a jumper. AV simply has more market value and is a better player than Gooden or Z - the team's starting 4 & 5, and should be paid accordingly.
If the Cavaliers balk at re-signing him - they will be making another serious management/talent evaluation mistake. They don't have many players with upside - they can't afford to let one walk away.
Now if they work a sign and trade with him and others involving KG - that's another story. Unfortunately, the Cavaliers (read: Danny Ferry & company) don't seem to have the &#@* to reach that deep. We'll see.
I'll keep banging that drum until my arms fall off.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Cavaliers' Off-Season Priorities
Get 23 a quality running-mate. We are going to keep banging that drum until it happens.
Why do I keep hearing that Kevin Garnett is finally available, but I don't hear the Cavs' name in the hunt? Any deal for a big time player would likely have to include Larry Hughes - so bet it. I would work hard to keep Anderson Varejao out of that package and insert Drew Gooden instead. Hughes and Gooden form a good starting point from which to work. Yes, I realizes more would be needed to get KJ. I'm all for it.
I could see the Cavaliers going after Shawn Marion or Leandro Barbosa instead - especially since Ferry and new Suns' GM Steve Kerr are good friends going back to their Cavalier days. I prefer KJ and what he brings to the table. Marion is a nice, athletic player who has had the good fortunte of playing with Steve Nash. Barbosa is intriguing, but I would rather go with the sure thing.
The second order of business is to re-sign Anderson Varejao. He's simply more valuable to them than Drew Gooden and Z. Just check out how often he was on the court down the stretch compared to their starting 4 and 5 the past two years. The Cavs will have to pay him probably more than he is actually worth - but it's a must sign considering he's young, brings much-needed energy to the floor and still has an upside to his game.
Third, get a defensive presence in the middle. The Cavaliers have not had a true shot-blocking presence inside since the days of Nance and Williams some 15 years ago - and they were actually forwards who could protect the paint. Even someone who gives them 20-25 minutes a night inside will do. It would improve their team defensive numbers even more. The present roster is void of that element and it shows.
Finally, I could care less if the Cavaliers don't acquire a #1 pick in Thursday's upcoming draft. They have numerous other more immediate priorities. Trading for a #1 pick is window-dressing right now unless it's a targeted top-10 pick that may be of help right away. I want veteran, quality help for 23!
Why do I keep hearing that Kevin Garnett is finally available, but I don't hear the Cavs' name in the hunt? Any deal for a big time player would likely have to include Larry Hughes - so bet it. I would work hard to keep Anderson Varejao out of that package and insert Drew Gooden instead. Hughes and Gooden form a good starting point from which to work. Yes, I realizes more would be needed to get KJ. I'm all for it.
I could see the Cavaliers going after Shawn Marion or Leandro Barbosa instead - especially since Ferry and new Suns' GM Steve Kerr are good friends going back to their Cavalier days. I prefer KJ and what he brings to the table. Marion is a nice, athletic player who has had the good fortunte of playing with Steve Nash. Barbosa is intriguing, but I would rather go with the sure thing.
The second order of business is to re-sign Anderson Varejao. He's simply more valuable to them than Drew Gooden and Z. Just check out how often he was on the court down the stretch compared to their starting 4 and 5 the past two years. The Cavs will have to pay him probably more than he is actually worth - but it's a must sign considering he's young, brings much-needed energy to the floor and still has an upside to his game.
Third, get a defensive presence in the middle. The Cavaliers have not had a true shot-blocking presence inside since the days of Nance and Williams some 15 years ago - and they were actually forwards who could protect the paint. Even someone who gives them 20-25 minutes a night inside will do. It would improve their team defensive numbers even more. The present roster is void of that element and it shows.
Finally, I could care less if the Cavaliers don't acquire a #1 pick in Thursday's upcoming draft. They have numerous other more immediate priorities. Trading for a #1 pick is window-dressing right now unless it's a targeted top-10 pick that may be of help right away. I want veteran, quality help for 23!
Friday, June 15, 2007
Finals Debacle
Losing two games in San Antonio was expected. Going 0-2 in your own building is unacceptable - especially when you consider the fact the Spurs didn't play particularly well in games #3 & #4. Both games were there for the taking.
The Cavaliers simply picked a bad time to go ice cold from the field - in the NBA Finals. Time after time, shooters missed good, open looks. The help 23 received in the conference finals from Daniel Gibson was not there in the Q againt the Spurs. To sum it up - not one Cavalier played well in the Finals. - including James.
LJ's weakest part of his game - his jumper - was exposed. He lost all confidence in his shot - making him easier to guard. He also had way too many turnovers. At times, he looked like a 22 year old mere mortal, instead of the "chosen One."
If you crave the title and the endorsements, you carry the burden.
LJ needs to understand if he wants to be the first billion $ athlete and a true global sports figure, which he and his handlers have discussed openly, he needs to take care of business first.
He must truly work on his weaknesses in the off-season (shooting, developing a post-up game & playing on the ball defense) before he focuses on trips abroad to widen his image and making more cute commercials.
There wasn't much to "witness" in the Finals. LJ was the best player on the floor only once in the series - in game #3. And even that performance had flaws. Couple that with the realization that outside of James, an argument can be made that the other 11 players on the roster constituted the weakest talent level ever to dress for an NBA Finals, and what followed was a clean sweep (4-0) by a veteran/talented team (Spurs) - not a team for all ages.
Now the glass is half full version - the Cavaliers found one quality perimeter player (Daniel Gibson). He showed no fear of playing on the big stage in May & June. An o-4 sweep at the hands of the Spurs, and media/fan pressure, will also finally force management to realize this is a flawed team and significant roster changes are in order to supply LJ with the support staff necessary to truly compete for a title.
Team Season Grade: A
They won 50 games, received a gift playoff draw, but took advantage of it, reaching the Finals for the first time in franchise history. But remember, there is a huge difference between being a good team - which the Cavs were - and being a championship caliber team.
Mike Brown Season Grade: B
He had them playing solid defense all season long, but was slow to make some needed playoff adjustments and his tendency to burn timeouts early was often costly.
Management Season Grade: C
Danny Ferry's free agent additions the past two years - D. Jones, D. Marshall and, especially L. Hughes, have simply not been worth the investment. This corner was not too fond of the Gooden signing either. He's in the middle of the pack as far as power/forwards go. That money could have been better spent.
At least he (Ferry) didn't give Kevin Ollie and Ira Newble, journeymen players at best, multi-year deals like his predecessor.
The Cavs reached the 50 win plateau in '06 & '07 mostly on 23's shoulders and Mike Brown's ability to convince the Cavs to defend on a nightly basis. Ferry also didn't pull the trigger on any major deals prior to the '07 trading deadline when help was clearly needed. He does get credit for getting what looks like a steal in D. Gibson in round #2. However, that is off-set by the fact that S. Brown, their #1 pick in last year's draft, was non-existent. Injuries played a part, but he (S. Brown) also had numerous DNPs when apparently healthy. It's not like he had all-stars ahead of him. Either the coach didn't like what he saw or he wasn't used properly.
There's room for improvement everywhere you turn. But that's the case with every team but one at season's end!
Writer's Analysis Grade: B-
I had them (Cavs) winning 50+ again and losing to the Pistons in the conference finals at the start of the season. LJ's heroic performance in game #5 versus Detroit made me look bad, but that's fine with me.
I had them (Cavs) taking the Spurs to the limit (seven games), figuring the match-ups favored the Cavs to make it a quality series to watch. I was wrong. The Spurs played like the Spurs always play - methodical, intelligent basketball. They simply don't beat themselves. The Cavs defended adequately, but no one could predict the team going cold from the field from start to finish. And for the first time in a playoff series in '07, James was not the best player on the court - Tony Parker was.
My Finals prediction looked foolish - except for one fact. I had the Spurs beating the Pistons in the Finals before this mess all began back in October. So it wasn't all bad.
The Cavaliers simply picked a bad time to go ice cold from the field - in the NBA Finals. Time after time, shooters missed good, open looks. The help 23 received in the conference finals from Daniel Gibson was not there in the Q againt the Spurs. To sum it up - not one Cavalier played well in the Finals. - including James.
LJ's weakest part of his game - his jumper - was exposed. He lost all confidence in his shot - making him easier to guard. He also had way too many turnovers. At times, he looked like a 22 year old mere mortal, instead of the "chosen One."
If you crave the title and the endorsements, you carry the burden.
LJ needs to understand if he wants to be the first billion $ athlete and a true global sports figure, which he and his handlers have discussed openly, he needs to take care of business first.
He must truly work on his weaknesses in the off-season (shooting, developing a post-up game & playing on the ball defense) before he focuses on trips abroad to widen his image and making more cute commercials.
There wasn't much to "witness" in the Finals. LJ was the best player on the floor only once in the series - in game #3. And even that performance had flaws. Couple that with the realization that outside of James, an argument can be made that the other 11 players on the roster constituted the weakest talent level ever to dress for an NBA Finals, and what followed was a clean sweep (4-0) by a veteran/talented team (Spurs) - not a team for all ages.
Now the glass is half full version - the Cavaliers found one quality perimeter player (Daniel Gibson). He showed no fear of playing on the big stage in May & June. An o-4 sweep at the hands of the Spurs, and media/fan pressure, will also finally force management to realize this is a flawed team and significant roster changes are in order to supply LJ with the support staff necessary to truly compete for a title.
Team Season Grade: A
They won 50 games, received a gift playoff draw, but took advantage of it, reaching the Finals for the first time in franchise history. But remember, there is a huge difference between being a good team - which the Cavs were - and being a championship caliber team.
Mike Brown Season Grade: B
He had them playing solid defense all season long, but was slow to make some needed playoff adjustments and his tendency to burn timeouts early was often costly.
Management Season Grade: C
Danny Ferry's free agent additions the past two years - D. Jones, D. Marshall and, especially L. Hughes, have simply not been worth the investment. This corner was not too fond of the Gooden signing either. He's in the middle of the pack as far as power/forwards go. That money could have been better spent.
At least he (Ferry) didn't give Kevin Ollie and Ira Newble, journeymen players at best, multi-year deals like his predecessor.
The Cavs reached the 50 win plateau in '06 & '07 mostly on 23's shoulders and Mike Brown's ability to convince the Cavs to defend on a nightly basis. Ferry also didn't pull the trigger on any major deals prior to the '07 trading deadline when help was clearly needed. He does get credit for getting what looks like a steal in D. Gibson in round #2. However, that is off-set by the fact that S. Brown, their #1 pick in last year's draft, was non-existent. Injuries played a part, but he (S. Brown) also had numerous DNPs when apparently healthy. It's not like he had all-stars ahead of him. Either the coach didn't like what he saw or he wasn't used properly.
There's room for improvement everywhere you turn. But that's the case with every team but one at season's end!
Writer's Analysis Grade: B-
I had them (Cavs) winning 50+ again and losing to the Pistons in the conference finals at the start of the season. LJ's heroic performance in game #5 versus Detroit made me look bad, but that's fine with me.
I had them (Cavs) taking the Spurs to the limit (seven games), figuring the match-ups favored the Cavs to make it a quality series to watch. I was wrong. The Spurs played like the Spurs always play - methodical, intelligent basketball. They simply don't beat themselves. The Cavs defended adequately, but no one could predict the team going cold from the field from start to finish. And for the first time in a playoff series in '07, James was not the best player on the court - Tony Parker was.
My Finals prediction looked foolish - except for one fact. I had the Spurs beating the Pistons in the Finals before this mess all began back in October. So it wasn't all bad.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Game #3
After game#3's loss, our prediction of a seven-game series between the Cavs and Spurs looks bleak. Last night unfortunately, the Spurs didn't win it as much as the Cavs lost it with horrid shooting. Regardless, this series, and the overall playoff run, is a good learning experience for the Cavaliers.
Thanks to a good playoff draw and 23's superhuman effort in game #5 of the Pistons' series, the Cavs reached the '07 Finals. This should only make them better in the future if they do the right things in the off-season - translated, get James some real help. We've talked about this time and time again since '05.
Let's face it - the only keepers on this current roster include 23, DanielGibson and Andy V. Everyone else is expendable to say the least. How many defending conference champions can say that?
As for the Cavs' loss in game #3 - you can't win if you can't make buckets!
At one point in the fourth quarter, the Cavs were 1-of-15 from beyond the arc while the Spurs were near 50%. Game, set and match!
The effort was there, the defense was solid, but the ball would not drop.
James has had a horrific series shooting the ball - which has made it easier for the Spurs to defend him. Couple that with the zone defense roles implemented several years ago, allowing SA, and ther rest of the league, to run several players at him at will, and you have a frustrated 23.
Still, on a sub-par night, he was the best player on the floor in game #3 - finishing with 25-8-7. His running mate in the post-season, Daniel Gibson, was 1-of-10 from the field after being inserted in the starting line-up. He was due for a bad shooting night. It just came at a bad time. And no, it did not happen because he was inserted in the starting line-up. Anyone who goes there has never laced on sneakers. @##@ like this happens.
The rest of the perimeter players didn't grade out well either, even though they were playing in their comfort zone - at home.
Give Mike Brown credit for posting up 23 all night in game #3 since the jumper had not been falling all series long. Unfortunately, James is not comfortable playing with his back to the basket. Too often he held the ball too long instead of going quickly to the hoop before the double came. He needs to work on that facet of his game in the off-season. We've said this before.
Adding a back-to-the-basket game will help him and the Cavs greatly - especially when the jumper leaves him - which is all too often. Remember, he is a rhythm shooter not a good shooter. There is a huge difference.
Don't despair Cavs' fans. The East does not have a clear, dominant team. The Cavaliers have the best player in the sport on their roster. In the '07 playoffs, Daniel Gibson established himself as a keeper. With some changes, the Cavaliers should be in the hunt again in '08 and beyond.
The question Danny Ferry has to answer is this - doe he tinker and add a couple pieces to the puzzle, including a bonafide point guard that can shoot (i.e. Mike Bibby) and a post player who can defend the goal, or does he make a real splash and get another top-10 player (i.e. KG), who perhaps has only three or four years left in the tank, who James can lean on for real support on a nightly basis. At this point, I vote for plan B.
As for the rest of the series, it is now all about pride. With the pressure off, the Cavs' role players should play better in game #4. But we said the same thing about coming home prior to game #3.
And by the way, let's not whine about Bruce Bowen fouling 23 prior to that final three-point attempt. That's so Cleveland-like. You got beat. Learn from it and move on.
Thanks to a good playoff draw and 23's superhuman effort in game #5 of the Pistons' series, the Cavs reached the '07 Finals. This should only make them better in the future if they do the right things in the off-season - translated, get James some real help. We've talked about this time and time again since '05.
Let's face it - the only keepers on this current roster include 23, DanielGibson and Andy V. Everyone else is expendable to say the least. How many defending conference champions can say that?
As for the Cavs' loss in game #3 - you can't win if you can't make buckets!
At one point in the fourth quarter, the Cavs were 1-of-15 from beyond the arc while the Spurs were near 50%. Game, set and match!
The effort was there, the defense was solid, but the ball would not drop.
James has had a horrific series shooting the ball - which has made it easier for the Spurs to defend him. Couple that with the zone defense roles implemented several years ago, allowing SA, and ther rest of the league, to run several players at him at will, and you have a frustrated 23.
Still, on a sub-par night, he was the best player on the floor in game #3 - finishing with 25-8-7. His running mate in the post-season, Daniel Gibson, was 1-of-10 from the field after being inserted in the starting line-up. He was due for a bad shooting night. It just came at a bad time. And no, it did not happen because he was inserted in the starting line-up. Anyone who goes there has never laced on sneakers. @##@ like this happens.
The rest of the perimeter players didn't grade out well either, even though they were playing in their comfort zone - at home.
Give Mike Brown credit for posting up 23 all night in game #3 since the jumper had not been falling all series long. Unfortunately, James is not comfortable playing with his back to the basket. Too often he held the ball too long instead of going quickly to the hoop before the double came. He needs to work on that facet of his game in the off-season. We've said this before.
Adding a back-to-the-basket game will help him and the Cavs greatly - especially when the jumper leaves him - which is all too often. Remember, he is a rhythm shooter not a good shooter. There is a huge difference.
Don't despair Cavs' fans. The East does not have a clear, dominant team. The Cavaliers have the best player in the sport on their roster. In the '07 playoffs, Daniel Gibson established himself as a keeper. With some changes, the Cavaliers should be in the hunt again in '08 and beyond.
The question Danny Ferry has to answer is this - doe he tinker and add a couple pieces to the puzzle, including a bonafide point guard that can shoot (i.e. Mike Bibby) and a post player who can defend the goal, or does he make a real splash and get another top-10 player (i.e. KG), who perhaps has only three or four years left in the tank, who James can lean on for real support on a nightly basis. At this point, I vote for plan B.
As for the rest of the series, it is now all about pride. With the pressure off, the Cavs' role players should play better in game #4. But we said the same thing about coming home prior to game #3.
And by the way, let's not whine about Bruce Bowen fouling 23 prior to that final three-point attempt. That's so Cleveland-like. You got beat. Learn from it and move on.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Mike Brown
Mike Brown is a young coach who has had back-to-back 50 wins seasons in his first two years in the league. He has dramatically improved the Cavaliers' defense in that time period. That's the good news.
The bad news is he is coaching about as well as the Cavaliers are playing in the first two games of the '07 Finals.
Larry Hughes should not be playing major minutes. He has been totally ineffective at both ends of the court - due to injury and a lack of overall confidence right now.
Brown has an option. Daniel Gibson is playing the best basketball of his young career at the most critical time of the year. He should be playing the bulk of the minutes in Hughes' place. Everyone seems to realize this but Brown.
Coach Brown also got brain lock when he took 23 out after picking up two quick fouls early in quarter one of game #2. The Cavs had little to no chance to stay close with James on the bench for that length of time. Let him play through the fouls and count on his high basketball IQ to kick in and avoid his third personal. By the time he re-entered at the start of the second quarter, the Cavs were predictably down double digits and playing uphill the rest of the night in the Finals on the road. Bad idea Mike.
Regardless, I still expect the Cavaliers role players - all 11 of them- to play much better at home and find a way to win two of the next three games and force a game #6. Let's hope Brown also feels more comfortable at the Q and stops worrying about hurting his players' feelings and starts making better pre-game and in-game decisions. With this roster, the Cavaliers' margin for error is extremely small against the veteran and cerebral Spurs. They don't need Brown adding to the problem.
LJ is not a good shooter. We know this. Like a lot of players, he is a rhythm shooter who is searching for his shot right now. Not asking him to chase Tony Parker all over the floor wouldn't hurt.
One more thing, I never - I repeat never - want to see E. Snow and Anderson V. run a pick and role again in my life. I like both players and what they bring to the table, but that sequence epitomized the futility of the Cavs' two-game stay in San Antonio. Plus, for a basketball purist, it was difficult to watch - similar to seeing someone run their nails down a chalkboard.
All hope is not lost. Home court energy should lead to better play at the Q.
The bad news is he is coaching about as well as the Cavaliers are playing in the first two games of the '07 Finals.
Larry Hughes should not be playing major minutes. He has been totally ineffective at both ends of the court - due to injury and a lack of overall confidence right now.
Brown has an option. Daniel Gibson is playing the best basketball of his young career at the most critical time of the year. He should be playing the bulk of the minutes in Hughes' place. Everyone seems to realize this but Brown.
Coach Brown also got brain lock when he took 23 out after picking up two quick fouls early in quarter one of game #2. The Cavs had little to no chance to stay close with James on the bench for that length of time. Let him play through the fouls and count on his high basketball IQ to kick in and avoid his third personal. By the time he re-entered at the start of the second quarter, the Cavs were predictably down double digits and playing uphill the rest of the night in the Finals on the road. Bad idea Mike.
Regardless, I still expect the Cavaliers role players - all 11 of them- to play much better at home and find a way to win two of the next three games and force a game #6. Let's hope Brown also feels more comfortable at the Q and stops worrying about hurting his players' feelings and starts making better pre-game and in-game decisions. With this roster, the Cavaliers' margin for error is extremely small against the veteran and cerebral Spurs. They don't need Brown adding to the problem.
LJ is not a good shooter. We know this. Like a lot of players, he is a rhythm shooter who is searching for his shot right now. Not asking him to chase Tony Parker all over the floor wouldn't hurt.
One more thing, I never - I repeat never - want to see E. Snow and Anderson V. run a pick and role again in my life. I like both players and what they bring to the table, but that sequence epitomized the futility of the Cavs' two-game stay in San Antonio. Plus, for a basketball purist, it was difficult to watch - similar to seeing someone run their nails down a chalkboard.
All hope is not lost. Home court energy should lead to better play at the Q.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Adjustments
The San Antonio Spurs' "big three" all had good games in game #1 of the 2007 Finals, 23 did not and got minimal help from friends - thus a Cavalier loss followed. That's the simple version of what happened in the series opener.
However, for the Cavs, there were some distressing developments that had nothing to do with talent level, but more to do with missed assignments and coaching.
First, for some reason, Larry Hughes decided to chase Tony Parker over screens instead of going underneath. That was a recipe for disaster - allowing TP easy access to the lane instead of making him take jump shots. The Cavs' big men are not quick enough to show properly and slow down Parker. He must be given room in the perimeter. If Parker makes shots, so be it - much like the philosophy the Spurs employed in game #1 against 23.
Secondly, on too many occassions, Cavalier defenders left their man to double non-scorers, leaving Spurs' three point shooters wide open for good perimeter looks.
This series also begs for Eric Snow's high basketball IQ and defensive prowess to be on the floor. He earned a DNP in game #1 and that was a poor coaching decision. Because of injuries, Hughes cannot stay in front of Parker and his offense is non-existent right now. Coach Brown needs to play a confident Daniel Gibson more and give E. Snow some minutes to try to slow down Parker. That also takes 23 off of Parker and allows him to rest more on defense by putting him back on Bruce Bowen - where he belongs. You can't ask LJ to give you 25-6-6 and also cover the Spurs' best perimeter player half the night.
Those were adjustments that needed to be made in game #1 - not prior to game #2.
However, for the Cavs, there were some distressing developments that had nothing to do with talent level, but more to do with missed assignments and coaching.
First, for some reason, Larry Hughes decided to chase Tony Parker over screens instead of going underneath. That was a recipe for disaster - allowing TP easy access to the lane instead of making him take jump shots. The Cavs' big men are not quick enough to show properly and slow down Parker. He must be given room in the perimeter. If Parker makes shots, so be it - much like the philosophy the Spurs employed in game #1 against 23.
Secondly, on too many occassions, Cavalier defenders left their man to double non-scorers, leaving Spurs' three point shooters wide open for good perimeter looks.
This series also begs for Eric Snow's high basketball IQ and defensive prowess to be on the floor. He earned a DNP in game #1 and that was a poor coaching decision. Because of injuries, Hughes cannot stay in front of Parker and his offense is non-existent right now. Coach Brown needs to play a confident Daniel Gibson more and give E. Snow some minutes to try to slow down Parker. That also takes 23 off of Parker and allows him to rest more on defense by putting him back on Bruce Bowen - where he belongs. You can't ask LJ to give you 25-6-6 and also cover the Spurs' best perimeter player half the night.
Those were adjustments that needed to be made in game #1 - not prior to game #2.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Cavaliers' To Do List Versus Spurs
Far be it for me to offer the Cavaliers' coaching staff advice prior to game #1 of the '07 NBA Finals. But here goes anyway.
Keep Tony Parker out of the paint.
That's easier said than done. In '05-06, Parker scored more points in the paint than any other player in the league. That's impressive for a six foot point guard. Hughes, Gibson and Snow need to stay in front of Parker and force him to knock down perimeter jumpers instead of causing havoc inside.
Make Tim Duncan, who is not a good free throw shooter, beat you at the line.
The Cavaliers need to avoid the urge to double the post thus freeing up the Spurs' perimeter shooters. That means using all your big men and their six fouls on "Big Fundamentals." If he knocks down 16 of 20 charity tosses per game - then so be it.
Win the rebounding battle and get out and run. Do not allow the Spurs' defense to settle in and lock you down. They are the best team in the league at taking away your first and second options in your sets, forcing you into shots you do not want to take.
Post up 23. Use LeBron James in the blocks against the much smaller Bruce Bowen. The Spurs will be forced to double - which will allow the Cavaliers to get open perimeter looks. If the Spurs choose to play it straight up, James must finish inside playing with his back to the basket much better than he did in the regular season.
And last but not least - make your free throws. Simple but crucial.
We still see it 4-3 Spurs based on experience and their "Big Three." But anything is possible, especially if 23 continues his Superman act, Gibson plays well once again and one other Cav steps up and has a quality series.
The Cavaliers match up better with the Spurs than the high octane Suns and Mavs. They (Cavs) built their program based on the Spurs' model. Their GM and head coach came from that organization. They, like the Spurs, emphasize defense first.
On paper, the best player in the series is James with Duncan slightly behind. The problem is the next two top talents wear Spurs uniforms (Parker and Ginobili). That is why the Cavaliers are 5-1 underdogs in Las Vegas, along with a lack of Finals' experience.
That is why the mentor (Spurs) is expected to beat the pupil (Cavs) this time around.
Keep Tony Parker out of the paint.
That's easier said than done. In '05-06, Parker scored more points in the paint than any other player in the league. That's impressive for a six foot point guard. Hughes, Gibson and Snow need to stay in front of Parker and force him to knock down perimeter jumpers instead of causing havoc inside.
Make Tim Duncan, who is not a good free throw shooter, beat you at the line.
The Cavaliers need to avoid the urge to double the post thus freeing up the Spurs' perimeter shooters. That means using all your big men and their six fouls on "Big Fundamentals." If he knocks down 16 of 20 charity tosses per game - then so be it.
Win the rebounding battle and get out and run. Do not allow the Spurs' defense to settle in and lock you down. They are the best team in the league at taking away your first and second options in your sets, forcing you into shots you do not want to take.
Post up 23. Use LeBron James in the blocks against the much smaller Bruce Bowen. The Spurs will be forced to double - which will allow the Cavaliers to get open perimeter looks. If the Spurs choose to play it straight up, James must finish inside playing with his back to the basket much better than he did in the regular season.
And last but not least - make your free throws. Simple but crucial.
We still see it 4-3 Spurs based on experience and their "Big Three." But anything is possible, especially if 23 continues his Superman act, Gibson plays well once again and one other Cav steps up and has a quality series.
The Cavaliers match up better with the Spurs than the high octane Suns and Mavs. They (Cavs) built their program based on the Spurs' model. Their GM and head coach came from that organization. They, like the Spurs, emphasize defense first.
On paper, the best player in the series is James with Duncan slightly behind. The problem is the next two top talents wear Spurs uniforms (Parker and Ginobili). That is why the Cavaliers are 5-1 underdogs in Las Vegas, along with a lack of Finals' experience.
That is why the mentor (Spurs) is expected to beat the pupil (Cavs) this time around.
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Cavaliers & Spurs
Television analyst Steve Kerr, a former Cav, said it best when he stated "This is by no means a finished product" when referring to the Cavaliers in the wake of the franchise's biggest win in game #6 versus the Pistons. He's right on the money.
The Cavaliers are ahead of schedule and have reached the NBA Finals on the back of 23 and the 42nd pick in the 2006 draft - little known and no longer little in stature Daniel Gibson. James should have just completed his senior year in college and Gibson his junior campaign. Instead, they will be playing the San Antonio Spurs for the '07 NBA title.
Can they win?
Yes.
Why?
The Cavs went 2-0 versus the Spurs this season. Don't believe the talking heads who say the regular season matchups mean nothing. The same things was said about the Mavs and Warriors series before it began.
Yes, every one will make a big deal about the Spurs' outstanding defense. They are outstanding at that end.
But the truth is the Spurs will be playing the best defensive team they wil have faced in the '07 post-season in the Cavaliers. They don't defend nearly as well out west.
The Cavs have the approach, size and athleticism, both in the backcourt and the front line, to frustrate San Antonio's big three (Parker, Ginobili and Duncan) enough to make this series very competitive.
Finally, while the Spurs are slightly better defensively, the Cavaliers will have the best single player on the floor - 23. The Spurs will be forced to double James, something they don't like to do. That should again open up open looks for Gibson and company.
This should be a very physical, grind it out series.
Logic dictates the Spurs win because of experience. But I felt that way heading into the Pistons series. Thus the 4-2 Pistons' prediction.
Let's go with Spurs 4-3 this time around.
Why? It's simple.
I have never seen a team win the NBA Championship with one great player and 11 role players. As much as I love 23's immense talents, I have to see it to believe it.
The great championship Laker and Celtic teams of the 80s had numerous Hall of Famers playing. The Sixers that snuck in during the Celtics and Laker decade long running soap opera had Moses "four-four-four" Malone, Doctor J, and plenty of help from others. The "Bad Boy" Pistons that followed had Isaiah, Joe D and company. The Bulls ofcourse had Michael and Scotty. The Rockets had Akeem, Clyde, and friends. The Lakers had Shak and Kobe. The Pistons had a rarity - no Hall of Famers - but the best starting five in basketball.
Which brings us full circle back to the Spurs - who have won titles, first with Robinson and Duncan, and now with Tony and Manu lending a hand.
If the Cavaliers can pull this off - it will be a first.
The Cavaliers are ahead of schedule and have reached the NBA Finals on the back of 23 and the 42nd pick in the 2006 draft - little known and no longer little in stature Daniel Gibson. James should have just completed his senior year in college and Gibson his junior campaign. Instead, they will be playing the San Antonio Spurs for the '07 NBA title.
Can they win?
Yes.
Why?
The Cavs went 2-0 versus the Spurs this season. Don't believe the talking heads who say the regular season matchups mean nothing. The same things was said about the Mavs and Warriors series before it began.
Yes, every one will make a big deal about the Spurs' outstanding defense. They are outstanding at that end.
But the truth is the Spurs will be playing the best defensive team they wil have faced in the '07 post-season in the Cavaliers. They don't defend nearly as well out west.
The Cavs have the approach, size and athleticism, both in the backcourt and the front line, to frustrate San Antonio's big three (Parker, Ginobili and Duncan) enough to make this series very competitive.
Finally, while the Spurs are slightly better defensively, the Cavaliers will have the best single player on the floor - 23. The Spurs will be forced to double James, something they don't like to do. That should again open up open looks for Gibson and company.
This should be a very physical, grind it out series.
Logic dictates the Spurs win because of experience. But I felt that way heading into the Pistons series. Thus the 4-2 Pistons' prediction.
Let's go with Spurs 4-3 this time around.
Why? It's simple.
I have never seen a team win the NBA Championship with one great player and 11 role players. As much as I love 23's immense talents, I have to see it to believe it.
The great championship Laker and Celtic teams of the 80s had numerous Hall of Famers playing. The Sixers that snuck in during the Celtics and Laker decade long running soap opera had Moses "four-four-four" Malone, Doctor J, and plenty of help from others. The "Bad Boy" Pistons that followed had Isaiah, Joe D and company. The Bulls ofcourse had Michael and Scotty. The Rockets had Akeem, Clyde, and friends. The Lakers had Shak and Kobe. The Pistons had a rarity - no Hall of Famers - but the best starting five in basketball.
Which brings us full circle back to the Spurs - who have won titles, first with Robinson and Duncan, and now with Tony and Manu lending a hand.
If the Cavaliers can pull this off - it will be a first.
Friday, June 1, 2007
James' 48
I was wrong. One guy can beat five - at least once in a generation.
I have been complaining for the past two years that LJ didn't have enough help to win a title. In reality he doesn't. However, reality went out the door yesterday as James went off for 48 - scoring 29 of his team's last 30 points in every way imaginable in game #5 versus the Pistons. It was like watching a video game come to life.
First, thank you to Flip Saunders for not taking the ball out of James' hands earlier in possessions down the stretch. I never thought a veteran, Pistons team would allow James to beat them single-handedly. Last year, Detroit made other Cavaliers make buckets. They didn't and the Pistons advanced. Last night, they allowed a great player, playing at his peak, to impose his will. Mistake!
Secondly, the loss of Ben Wallace showed up again yesterday as James was able to get to the rim on a consistent basis. Having only one shot blocker in the paint (R. Wallace) instead of two obviously hurts the Pistons' interior defense. Having two terrific post defenders was a luxury they (Detroit) no longer possess and it showed in game #5. Only James, due to his rare combination of strenght, speed and size could expose that fact.
Third, someone please tell the Cavaliers' coaching staff to save one timeout for the end of the game. The timeout called by the Cavs in the final minute prior to an inbound underneath their own basket nearly cost them the win. Mike Brown has done this before. There's no reason why you can't inbound the ball there since the inbounder was permitted to run baseline after a Billups' second free throw make. Please save your final timeout in case you need it to advance the ball to halfcourt for one final decent look at the basket - as was needed last night with :03 seconds remaining.
Fourth, I hope the multitudes of E. Snow bashers give the veteran point guard the credit he deserves after that performance. In limited action, he forced a pair of C. Billups turnovers down the stretch and defended a much taller T. Prince well when called upon. No, he's not a 30 minute a night player any more and he would have trouble beating a good recreational league shooter in a game of horse, but he has a very high basketball IQ and is still an excellent defender. There's a reason why coaches still put him out on the floor. He will be a head coach in the NBA some day if he chooses to go into that profession after retiring.
Speaking of basketball IQ, S. Pavlovic should spend more time next to Snow and James on the team bus and on flights to and from. He has size, athleticism and can shoot, but he currently lacks the basketball IQ keeping him from becoming a consistent starting #2 guard in this league. He has made strides however in '06-07.
As game #6 approaches, the Cavaliers need to remember the basics in order to secure a trip to the 2007 Finals - like making free throws down the stretch. It went unnoticed in game #4s post-game analysis since the focus was on James' spectacular performance, but the Cavaliers' horrid fourth quarter free throw shooting should have them facing a 3-2 defict if not for Superman's act.
Finally, I have felt for the past two years that James was the best player in the game. Yet after game #4, a person I respect (Charles Barkley), lauded James' performance, but in the same breath mentioned that Kobe Bryant was "the best player in the game."
I beg to differ. James' teams have won more games and he has taken his squads much deeper into the playoffs than Kobe. Yes, Kobe plays out West, where we are told the teams are better. That's the case at the offensive end only. Put James out West, where many clubs give lip service to playing defense, and he might average a triple-double for the season - leaving absolutely no doubt as to how good he truly is and how much better he makes his mates.
Finally, I expect the Pistons to play their best game of the series in game #6. The Cavaliers however should have no excuses after this one. They have the best player on the court and his teammates should be well-rested after watching him but them on his back in game #5. It should be fun to watch.
I have been complaining for the past two years that LJ didn't have enough help to win a title. In reality he doesn't. However, reality went out the door yesterday as James went off for 48 - scoring 29 of his team's last 30 points in every way imaginable in game #5 versus the Pistons. It was like watching a video game come to life.
First, thank you to Flip Saunders for not taking the ball out of James' hands earlier in possessions down the stretch. I never thought a veteran, Pistons team would allow James to beat them single-handedly. Last year, Detroit made other Cavaliers make buckets. They didn't and the Pistons advanced. Last night, they allowed a great player, playing at his peak, to impose his will. Mistake!
Secondly, the loss of Ben Wallace showed up again yesterday as James was able to get to the rim on a consistent basis. Having only one shot blocker in the paint (R. Wallace) instead of two obviously hurts the Pistons' interior defense. Having two terrific post defenders was a luxury they (Detroit) no longer possess and it showed in game #5. Only James, due to his rare combination of strenght, speed and size could expose that fact.
Third, someone please tell the Cavaliers' coaching staff to save one timeout for the end of the game. The timeout called by the Cavs in the final minute prior to an inbound underneath their own basket nearly cost them the win. Mike Brown has done this before. There's no reason why you can't inbound the ball there since the inbounder was permitted to run baseline after a Billups' second free throw make. Please save your final timeout in case you need it to advance the ball to halfcourt for one final decent look at the basket - as was needed last night with :03 seconds remaining.
Fourth, I hope the multitudes of E. Snow bashers give the veteran point guard the credit he deserves after that performance. In limited action, he forced a pair of C. Billups turnovers down the stretch and defended a much taller T. Prince well when called upon. No, he's not a 30 minute a night player any more and he would have trouble beating a good recreational league shooter in a game of horse, but he has a very high basketball IQ and is still an excellent defender. There's a reason why coaches still put him out on the floor. He will be a head coach in the NBA some day if he chooses to go into that profession after retiring.
Speaking of basketball IQ, S. Pavlovic should spend more time next to Snow and James on the team bus and on flights to and from. He has size, athleticism and can shoot, but he currently lacks the basketball IQ keeping him from becoming a consistent starting #2 guard in this league. He has made strides however in '06-07.
As game #6 approaches, the Cavaliers need to remember the basics in order to secure a trip to the 2007 Finals - like making free throws down the stretch. It went unnoticed in game #4s post-game analysis since the focus was on James' spectacular performance, but the Cavaliers' horrid fourth quarter free throw shooting should have them facing a 3-2 defict if not for Superman's act.
Finally, I have felt for the past two years that James was the best player in the game. Yet after game #4, a person I respect (Charles Barkley), lauded James' performance, but in the same breath mentioned that Kobe Bryant was "the best player in the game."
I beg to differ. James' teams have won more games and he has taken his squads much deeper into the playoffs than Kobe. Yes, Kobe plays out West, where we are told the teams are better. That's the case at the offensive end only. Put James out West, where many clubs give lip service to playing defense, and he might average a triple-double for the season - leaving absolutely no doubt as to how good he truly is and how much better he makes his mates.
Finally, I expect the Pistons to play their best game of the series in game #6. The Cavaliers however should have no excuses after this one. They have the best player on the court and his teammates should be well-rested after watching him but them on his back in game #5. It should be fun to watch.
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