Blazers Trail

Eastbound & Down: NBA talent abandons the West

Steve Clarke — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 20:59:15 +0000

While nearly all the focus of 2010-11 NBA free agency has centered on the Superfriends of Miami, a compelling side-story has gone mostly unnoticed.

A tremendous amount of talent has shifted from the West to the East with very little coming back.

If you doubt the West has weakened, take a minute to review this summer’s free agent signings and trades to see the evidence of an Eastern exodus.

In fact, it seems the Heat, Celtics, and Knicks have shaped the Eastern Conference into basketball’s version of MLB’s American League. To top it off, New Jersey Net’s billionaire owner Mikhail Prokhorov has vowed to invest huge amounts of money in player personnel over the coming years, suggesting the Atlantic Division might just become the AL East of the NBA.

What does all of this mean for the Blazers? The window of opportunity in the West is wide open.

Here’s a quick snapshot of some of the top players who headed East:

Amare Stoudemire to Knicks from Suns
Darren Collison to Pacers from Hornets
Carlos Boozer to Bulls from Jazz
Leandro Barbosa to Raptors from Suns
Drew Gooden to Bucks from Mavericks
Ronnie Brewer to Bulls from Jazz
Erick Dampier to Bobcats from Mavericks
Anthony Morrow to Nets from Warriors
Anthony Randolph to Knicks from Warriors
Linas Kleiza to Raptors from Nuggets
Jordan Farmar to Nets from Lakers
Kyle Korver to Bulls from Jazz
Ronny Turiaf to Knicks from Warriors

On the other hand, here’s a look at some of the best players who shifted West:

David Lee to Warriors from Knicks
Hedo Turkoglu to Suns from Raptors
Tyson Chandler to Mavericks from Bobcats
Al Harrington to Nuggets from Knicks
Matt Barnes to Lakers from Magic
Josh Childress to Suns from Hawks (via Greece)
Hakim Warrick to Suns from Bulls
Randy Foye to Clippers from Wizards

Not only did the Eastern Conference retain all but one or two of its top free agents, an influx of talent from the west bumped up its overall strength.

To top it off, Carmelo Anthony of the Nuggets and Chris Paul of the Hornets have both voiced their desires to move to teams like the Knicks or Magic, both in the east.

For Blazers fans, it works out quite well that rival players in their conference are heading ‘Eastbound and Down’.

While opponents suffer from a talent vacuum sucking up their best athletes and unloading them on the east coast, the Blazers’ stability bodes well for a fantastic ’10-11 season in the Northwest.

Steve Clarke covers the Toronto Raptors and Portland Trail Blazers for Fanball at JurassicHoops.com and Blazerstrail.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @SteveClarkeNBA or contact him via email at sclarke22@hotmail.com

Rudy Fernandez shenanigans need to stop

Steve Clarke — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 02:58:42 +0000

As reported by The Oregonian’s Jason Quick earlier today, Rudy Fernandez dropped a couple of flaming bags of proverbial poop on the porch of the Blazers.

Among his majesty’s latest ultimatums was a declaration that he will not report to training camp, and would be pleased to accept a team-issued suspension if it comes his way. His goal, as reported by multiple sources, is to obtain his release and return to Europe.

GM Rich Cho’s response to Rudy’s comments can be read here. In essence, Cho said that he will take his time with Rudy’s situation in order to do what’s best for the team’s interests.

While I fully respect Rich Cho’s calculated response, here’s my take on the situation.

Rudy Fernandez is Rudy Fernandez. He’s not Brandon Roy, LeBron James, or Carmelo Anthony. His value to the franchise, as it sits, is minimal to nil.

If he has any trade value whatsoever in the market, now is the time to cash in the chips and get the maximum return possible.

It might be picks, it might be a trade for role players…no matter what it is, it’s probably better than the ‘nothing’ they’ll receive if he rides out a team suspension to ultimately sign overseas…not to mention the bad vibes created amongst agents and players.

While it is easy to appreciate the reasons a team would wait for the trade market to develop, the Blazers have found themselves in a sticky situation with Rudy. If Rudy can return any reasonable yield, Cho owes it to the Blazers to ship him out of town.

Holding the rights to Fernandez is a bit like holding shares in a mining company – the trade value holds some worth to those who see the potential return, but could just as easily vanish into thin air.

Seriously, Rich Cho…cash in this stock while you have a chance.

Blazers need to swap Fernandez now

Steve Clarke — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 22:22:33 +0000

The time has come for Rich Cho to pull the trigger on his first trade, and here’s hoping he gets to it quickly.

A story hit the internet today, published by Marca.com, in which Fernandez discusses his growing discontent with his situation.

In fact, the article itself is entitled Rudy: “Me he sentido muy frustrado”.

Even those of us with an utter lack of Spanish linguistic skills could quite easily figure out the context of the story.

Rotoworld.com translated Rudy’s comments to give us an idea of his state of mind.

Key highlights:

He’s ‘50-50’ on whether he’ll return to NBA, or head overseas this season
He’ll consider staying in the NBA only if he can play for a team which “could assure me some minutes and the team played a way that fits my game”
He says his role with the Blazers has left him “pretty f***** up psychologically”

All these comments lead to one conclusion…it’s time for Rudy to get the heck out of Dodge.

Regardless of the return, Cho’s number one priority right now should be to find a taker for the disgruntled Spaniard.

As a team with a tremendous opportunity to advance deep in the Western conference playoffs, the last thing the Blazers need is a disgruntled guard sucking energy out of the locker room.

It would be a mistake to enter training camp with a sour Fernandez, and Cho’s handling of the situation will prove to be an early test of his management acumen.

This isn’t the first time rumors of Rudy’s departure have surfaced.

The rumor mill earlier this year had Rudy signing with Real Madrid. Those rumors were false, and he’s still under Blazers control…for now.

Reports say Chicago has serious interest in Fernandez, while teams like the Knicks and teams like New Jersey, Cleveland, New York, and New Orleans all seem likely bidders on a 2-guard.

With Rudy’s temperament being what it is, the best deal for the team might be the first fair offer it gets. Regardless of whether that is a mid-1st rounder, a young player with upside, Rich Cho is under the gun to act now.

It seems probable that we’ve seen the last of Rudy in a Blazers uniform. Now, let’s just hope the team is able to get a return on their investment, rather than seeing his value disappear on a flight to Madrid.

CP3 stays in New Orleans, so what’s next for Blazers?

Steve Clarke — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 18:22:58 +0000

For months, the Blazers’ desire to acquire Chris Paul has been one of the league’s worst kept secrets.

The rumors of CP3’s possible relocation to the Northwest reached a fever pitch just weeks ago, when the dynamic guard went public with a trade request.

All the elements of a trade were there.

Blazers roster loaded with desirable assets to trade
Larry Miller’s close ties with Paul
Paul’s trade demand
Blazers’ view of Paul as a player capable of leading the team on a championship run

But today, the likelihood of landing CP3 came crashing down.

As first reported by ESPN’s Chad Ford, the New Orleans Hornets traded Darren Collison to Indiana in a blockbuster deal, landing Trevor Ariza, and cementing “@oneandonlyCP3” as the team’s one and only starting point guard.

So, with Paul off the board, what’s the next move for the Blazers as they look to address their point guard situation? A couple of options are readily apparent.

Option 1: Stand Pat

The obvious move is to retain Andre Miller, accepting him for all his strengths and weaknesses. His contract isn’t horrendous, at under $7 million this season, and he provides predictable results when he’s running the offense.

Under this scenario, the team can gradually build Jerryd Bayless and Armon Johnson’s minutes to groom one as a potential replacement for Miller. With a team option to lock in Miller for ’11-12 at close to $8 mill, they’re on a bit of a tight timeframe to find out exactly what they have in Bayless/Johnson, or to make another major move.

Option 2: Pursue a trade for a different PG

As it stands at the moment, there are a few quality point guards who could likely be had for a reasonable price:

Mo Williams, Cavaliers
Ty Lawson, Nuggets
TJ Ford, Pacers (now a free agent after buyout)
Jose Calderon, Raptors

A package involving Rudy Fernandez, Bayless, and picks might be enough to land one of these guards (except Ford, who they could simply sign).

The question then becomes whether any of these players is really an upgrade for the Blazers. In the case of Calderon, there are financial issues at play, as well.

Regardless of what does or doesn’t get done, the Blazers must be disappointed to find out that they have missed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire a once-in-a-generation talent.

Rich Cho and the Blazers braintrust will undoubtedly address the situation in some manner, but no one would blame them for being a bit frustrated this afternoon.

NBA schedule released: Blazers highlights

Steve Clarke — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 19:13:16 +0000

The 2010-11 NBA schedule is out.

Blazers fans, grab your calendars. (That is, if any of you still use calendars. I’ll personally use my BlackBerry Storm- aka the bane of my existence – to key in a few important dates.)

With the league’s announcement of the 2010-11 full season schedule this afternoon, Blazers fans can plan their fall/winter schedules around the biggest home games.

Most anticipated home games:

The Superfriends of the Miami Heat bring their talents to Portland on Sunday, January 9th at 6pm in what will likely shape into a raucous night at the Rose Garden.

If Blazers fans get their wish, they might be able to watch Chris Paul alley-oop to Greg Oden as Portland gets a visit from the New Orleans Hornets on Fri, Nov 26th at 7pm and Wed, Feb 16th at 7pm. (Or maybe we’ll see Andre Miller dish to Joel Przybilla – either one.)

The 2009-10 champion L.A. Lakers come to Portland on Wed, Feb 23rd at 7:30pm and Fri, April 8th at 7pm, while division rivals the Utah Jazz come to the Blazers’ house on Sat, November 20th at 7pm and Thurs, December 30th also at 7pm.

Staying within the division, the Denver Nuggets drop by Rip City on Thurs, November 18th at 7:30pm and Friday, Feb 25th at 7:30pm, while MVP candidate Kevin Durant travels back to the Northwest on Thurs, November 4th at 7:30pm and April Fool’s Day, Fri, April 1st at 7pm.

I’d recommend you strongly consider taking the ‘Over’ when the Phoenix Suns visit Portland on Opening Night, October 26th at 7pm and again on Tues, Dec 7th.

National TV games:

Blazers take on the Clippers on ESPN on Oct 27th at 7:30pm PST.
Blazers travel to Chicago to play the Bulls on NBA TV on Nov 1st at 5pm PST.
Portland takes on Golden State in the late Christmas Day game, 7:30 pacific.

Biggest challenge:

Probably the toughest challenge the Blazers face in 2010-11 is the 22 back-to-back games the schedulers thrust upon them. Division rivals the Nuggets, Jazz, and T-Wolves have just 19 such sets, while the Thunder were given an unbelievably low number of back-to-backs…17. Looking for another surprise? The champion Lakers have just 15 back-to-back games all season. Hmmm.

Longest roadtrip:

While the Blazers have no 5 game roadtrips, they have a trio of separate 4-gamers.

Craziest roadtrip:

Following the season opener, the Blazers hop on the plane and head out for a 4 game road trip starting in L.A. vs the Clippers, then all the way across the country to New York, followed by back-to-back games in Chicago and Milwaukee.

Longest homestand:

The longest stretch of home-cooking for Portland will go from January 20th-February 1st, with opponents of varying calibers. LAC, IND, SAC, BOS, and SAS will all drop by the Garden to take on the Blazers.

Longest East Coast swing:

The Blazers have a pair of gruelling East Coast trips, the first starting November 28th at New Jersey, followed by visits to Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington. Another 4-game trip to the East takes the Blazers from Orlando to Miami on consecutive nights, followed by stops in Charlotte and Atlanta sandwiching by 2 days of rest.

April promises to be an exciting month with key in-conference matchups. Now, we just have to wait for the fun to begin.

Click here for the full schedule.

2010-11 NBA fantasy first look: Centers

Steve Clarke — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 19:03:40 +0000

We’re over halfway through the world’s earliest positional fantasy rankings for the 2010-11 season. Up next are the men in the middle – ranking the NBA’s top 15 centers. As with the previous rankings, we’ll focus on the fantasy production using standard Yahoo league categories to come up with the top 15.

Remember – it’s early, so injuries and roster changes may change these rankings prior to the start of the season. But if you want to be better prepared than your opponents, here’s a great opportunity to get a head start on your draft plan.

We’ll start by reviewing last year’s top producers, then look at my top 15 for 2010-11.

Last year’s top 15 producers with center eligibility:

1. Chris Bosh
2. Pau Gasol
3. Brook Lopez
4. Dwight Howard
5. Amar’e Stoudemire
6. Tim Duncan
7. Al Jefferson
8. David Lee
9. Carlos Boozer
10. Zach Randolph
11. Al Horford
12. Troy Murphy
13. Nene Hilario
14. Kevin Love
15. Andrea Bargnani

2010-11 Center Rankings:

1. Pau Gasol
2. Dwight Howard
3. Chris Bosh
4. David Lee
5. Amar’e Stoudemire
6. Brook Lopez
7. Al Jefferson
8. Al Horford
9. Nene Hilario
10. Tim Duncan
11. Andrea Bargnani
12. Troy Murphy
13. Marc Gasol
14. Andrew Bogut
15. Greg Oden

Blazers spotlight:

Greg Oden Position: C

Key Fantasy Stats ‘09-‘10: 11.1 Points per game, 8.5 Rebounds, 0.9 Assists, 0.4 Steals, 2.3 Blocks, .605 Field goal %, .766 Free throw %

Projected stats for ‘10-11: 14.5 Points per game, 10.2 Rebounds, 1.8 Assists, 0.8 Steals, 3.2 Blocks, .605 Field goal %, .720 Free throw %

@SteveClarkeNBA’s Fantasy Analysis:

“When he’s on the court, Greg Oden possesses a very rare trait – the ability to single-handedly change the flow of the game. Like observers said about Michael Jordan, Bill Russell, and other greats, Oden is a “magnet for the eyes” – an immense presence whenever he steps on the court.

The problem is, a combination of bad luck, injuries, and an inability to stay out of foul trouble has kept Oden from fulfilling expectations.

He’s worked extremely hard to rehab his wounded knee, and recently announced to media that he is “positive” he’ll be ready to go this season. If there’s one player in fantasy basketball worth putting at the top of your sleeper lists, it’s Oden. Don’t be the fool in your league who grabs Oden ahead of more predictable centers. But if he’s still on the board in the middle of your draft, take a chance on Oden’s upside and give yourself a great shot at winning your league.”

Steve Clarke covers the Portland Trail Blazers for Fanball’s www.Blazerstrail.com and the Toronto Raptors at www.JurassicHoops.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @SteveClarkeNBA or contact him via email at sclarke22@hotmail.com

2010-11 NBA fantasy first look: Shooting Guards

Steve Clarke — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 14:58:55 +0000

Welcome back to the world’s first 2010-11 preseason fantasy rankings. Today, we’ll have a look at the 2 spot – ranking the NBA’s top 15 shooting guards. As with the previous rankings, we’ll focus on the fantasy production using standard Yahoo league categories to come up with the top 15.

We’ll start by reviewing last year’s top producers, then I’ll give my top 15 for 2010-11.

Last year’s top 15 producers:
1.   Kevin Durant
2.   Kobe Bryant
3.   Dwyane Wade
4.   Brandon Roy
5.   Andre Iguodala
6.   Monta Ellis
7.   Joe Johnson
8.   Kevin Martin
9.   OJ Mayo
10.   Stephen Jackson
11.   Ray Allen
12.   Vince Carter
13.   Caron Butler
14.   Manu Ginobili
15.   Jason Terry

2010-11 Shooting Guard Rankings:
1.   Kevin Durant
2.   Kobe Bryant
3.   Brandon Roy
4.   Dwyane Wade
5.   Gilbert Arenas
6.   Monta Ellis
7.   Joe Johnson
8.   Kevin Martin
9.   Andre Iguodala
10.   OJ Mayo
11.   Jason Richardson
12.   Ray Allen
13.   Caron Butler
14.   Vince Carter
15.   Francisco Garcia

Blazers spotlight:

Brandon Roy Position: SG

Key Fantasy Stats ‘09-‘10: 21.5 Points per game, 4.4 Rebounds, 4.7 Assists, 0.9 Steals, 0.3 Blocks, .473 Field goal %, .780 Free throw %

Projected stats for ‘10-’11: 22.2 Points per game, 4.7 Rebounds, 5.2 Assists, 1.1 Steals, 0.3 Blocks, .475 Field goal %, .785 Free throw %

@SteveClarkeNBA’s Fantasy Analysis:

“Roy recently told The Columbian that he is back to full health, working daily this offseason with a personal trainer. If he can simply stay on the court, he’s a very valuable asset to the Blazers and your own fantasy squad.

Early reports say the team may pair him with Nicolas Batum and Wesley Matthews, which might result in PG eligibility, depending on your league criteria. The biggest issue entering 2010-11 for Roy is the risk of injury. For his career, he’s missed an average of 13.5 games per season, so if you grab Roy in your draft, be wise and store a quality backup in case his rigorous offseason conditioning program doesn’t chase away the injury bug.”

Steve Clarke covers the Portland Trail Blazers for Fanball’s Blazerstrail.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @SteveClarkeNBA or contact him via email at sclarke22@hotmail.com

2010-11 NBA fantasy first look: Point Guards

Steve Clarke — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 16:58:14 +0000

So, you’ve had a chance to digest my first look at the top 15 power forwards for the 2010-11 NBA season.

Let’s continue the early prognosticating, this time looking at the little guys. As with the PF rankings, we’ll focus on the fantasy production using standard Yahoo league categories to come up with the top 15 point guards for 2010-11.

We’ll start by reviewing last year’s top producers, then I’ll give my top 15 for 2010-11.

Last year’s top 15 producers:
1. Chris Paul
2. Steve Nash
3. Deron Williams
4. Rajon Rondo
5. Tyreke Evans
6. Jason Kidd
7. Chauncey Billups
8. Derrick Rose
9. Baron Davis
10. Russell Westbrook
11. Mo Williams
12. Devin Harris
13. Aaron Brooks
14. Stephen Curry
15. Tony Parker

2010-11 Point Guard Rankings:
1. Chris Paul
2. Deron Williams
3. Tyreke Evans
4. Steve Nash
5. Derrick Rose
6. Rajon Rondo
7. Russell Westbrook
8. John Wall
9. Devin Harris
10. Jason Kidd
11. Chauncey Billups
12. Aaron Brooks
13. Stephen Curry
14. Brandon Jennings
15. Andre Miller

Blazers spotlight:

Andre Miller Position: PG

Key Fantasy Stats ‘09-‘10: 14.0 Points per game, 3.3 Rebounds, 5.4 Assists, 1.1 Steals, 0.1 Blocks, .445 Field goal %,
.821 Free throw %

Projected stats for 2010-11: 15.5 Points per game, 3.3 Rebounds, 6.0 Assists, 1.3 Steals, 0.1 Blocks, .465 Field goal %, .820 Free throw %

SteveClarkeNBA’s Fantasy Analysis:

“As he enters his age-34 season, Miller looks likely to put up similar stats to last season, scoring a bit more, and increasing his assist numbers. His shot selection should improve at least slightly due to the addition of a complementary player like Wesley Matthews and the maturation of Nicolas Batum, resulting in an increased shooting percentage. Injuries are a risk factor for players in their mid-30’s, so consider this during your draft-day decisions.

From a fantasy perspective, better options will likely exist in early rounds. Like the Blazers, your team would probably love to land a big prize like Chris Paul. And like the Blazers, if you miss out on drafting Paul, you might find yourself with Andre Miller on your roster…unless you can pull off a trade for CP3 (I’m lookin’ at you, Rich Cho).”

Steve Clarke covers the Portland Trail Blazers for Fanball’s Blazerstrail.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @SteveClarkeNBA or contact him via email at sclarke22@hotmail.com

2010-11 NBA fantasy first look: Power forwards

Steve Clarke — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:37:25 +0000

Yes, I know it’s barely even August.

But, if you’re a hardcore fantasy basketball fan like me, there’s no such thing as an offseason.

Winning in fantasy hoops is no different than it is in the NBA itself. Consistent performance comes from hard work.

Let’s take a mental trip to the weight room to prepare for the upcoming season, starting with a ranking of the NBA’s power forwards.

Yes, it’s early, and roster changes can happen. But that didn’t stop me from breaking out the crystal ball to project the fantasy production of the league’s big forwards, with a special focus on Rip City’s own LaMarcus Aldridge.

First, let’s review last year’s top 15 producers at the PF position:

1. Dirk Nowitzki
2. Pau Gasol
3. Chris Bosh
4. Amare’ Stoudemire
5. Tim Duncan
6. David Lee
7. Marcus Camby
8. Al Jefferson
9. Carlos Boozer
10. LaMarcus Aldridge
11. Zach Randolph
12. Al Horford
13. Antawn Jamison
14. Josh Smith
15. Troy Murphy

Now, the Top 15 Power Forwards in 2010-11:

1. Dirk Nowitzki
2. Pau Gasol
3. Amare’ Stoudemire
4. Josh Smith
5. LaMarcus Aldridge
6. Chris Bosh
7. David Lee
8. Andray Blatche
9. Blake Griffin
10. Tim Duncan
11. Al Jefferson
12. Troy Murphy
13 Antawn Jamison
14. Zach Randolph
15. Kevin Love

Blazers spotlight:

LaMarcus Aldridge Position: PF

Key Fantasy Stats ‘09-10:

17.9 Points per game, 8.0 Rebounds, 2.1 Assists, 0.9 Steals, 0.6 Blocks, .495 Field goal %, .757 Free throw %

Projected Fantasy Stats ‘10-11:

18.1 Points per game, 7.9 Rebounds, 1.8 Assists, 1.0 Steals, 1.0 Blocks, .498 Field goal %, .755 Free throw %

SteveClarkeNBA’s Fantasy Analysis:

“As he enters his age-25 season, I look for Aldridge to improve slightly across the board, with a low likelihood of regression. Watch for the big man out of Texas to increase his field goal percentage in ‘10-11, while receiving a solid number of touches in this Blazer offensive attack.

From a fantasy perspective, there are few forwards with performance as predictable as Aldridge. While other owners in your league might gamble on high-risk/high-reward guys like Blake Griffin and Andray Blatche, play it safe and grab the consistent Blazer if he is available in your draft slot.”

Steve Clarke covers the Portland Trail Blazers for Fanball’s Blazerstrail.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @SteveClarkeNBA or contact him via email at sclarke22@hotmail.com

Link-a-Palooza: Blazers rumors & facts

Steve Clarke — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 16:16:32 +0000

Bored at work? Looking to kill a few minutes as you wait to escape the clutches of your jerky boss?

Turn your monitor away from your his/her line-of-sight, grab a coffee, and click on some of the links below for a look at some of the rumors and facts percolating around the 2010-11 Blazers.

The latest Blazers rumors:

The Oregonian and Yahoo report that three eastern conference teams are in hot pursuit of Rudy Fernandez.
A Blazers source confirms that the team is “actively seeking a trade partner” to unload Rudy. Click here if you habla Espanol.
Surprise, surprise: Blazers would “definitely” be interested in bidding on Chris Paul if the Hornets made him available: Brian T. Smith on Twitter.
A decision has not yet been made regarding the future of Patty Mills and Armon Johnson.
Adrian Wojnarowski says it was the one and only Worldwide Wes who engineered Rich Cho’s hiring as Portland’s GM.

The latest Blazers facts:

Blazers hire 3 new assistant coaches, including former Blazer Buck Williams.
Blazers beat out LA Clippers in the pursuit of Ociepka: Brian T. Smith on Twitter.
Tod Leiweke is out as CEO of Vulcan Sports, joining Tampa Bay Lightning ownership group.

Steve Clarke covers the Portland Trail Blazers for Fanball’s Blazerstrail.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @SteveClarkeNBA or contact him via email at sclarke22@hotmail.com