Strong rumours about Lebron and Chris Bosh going to Miami. If this happens the East could be locked up next year
Does this include Dwade resigning with the Heat?
Locked up next year?? How about the next 5-8 years?!! I'd be surprised if this happened though...think it is LBJ and Bosh to Chicago...
I will be beyond shocked if Lebron and Bosh end up anywhere other than Chicago.
I think Rose, Deng, Noah, and Gibson are a stronger supporting cast than Wade and Beasley if I was James and Bosh. The rest of those teams will have to be filled with minimum players, and both teams will hope to strike Wes Matthews gold. Who knows how many Matthews are out there, so the Bulls provide the better supporting cast, especially with the ceiling unkown on Rose and Noah right now.
There was just as much certainty that they were signing with Chicago a few days ago based off of word from World Wide Wes. Who knows what will happen. This could all be posturing to try to see if the Bulls or Heat will do something to improve themselves or get sign and trades done so James and Bosh can both get the extra $30 million.
In my biased opinion towards the Bulls, Bosh would be much better off playing next to Noah. Bosh is not a big presence on defense and Noah would hide that. You have to slow down Howard and/or Gasol to win the championship, and that Miami team might struggle with that. Miami would be basically at the cap after signing Bosh, James, Wade, and keeping Beasley so they would struggle to find a competitive center. Shaq at the veterans minimum is not gonna do it. Bosh will be a nice pick-setter in a pick and roll with either Wade or Rose though.
James, I think, will do fine playing with either Wade or Rose. They would be great on the break and on defense together, and would just find ways to compliment each other in the half court like Pippen and Jordan did with similar skill sets. It's gonna be a fun few weeks.
Quote from: GOMU1104 on June 28, 2010, 08:39:39 PM
I will be beyond shocked if Lebron and Bosh end up anywhere other than Chicago.
In the last 25 years, the biggest pick ups for the Bulls have been Ben Wallace & Dennis Rodman. I'm just not that "Bullish" on Chicago making this happen. It's not in their DNA.
Lebron would be the spot up shooter and Dwade the slasher and both could work together. I'm thinking Bosh would keep his ego in check and be third fiddle. Chicago is not in their future the way I see it.
Too much star power for this to work. As of right now, this is wades team whether lebron is on it or not... How will lebron take not having ''his'' team? Who will take the last shot? This idea looks pretty now, but i'm curious to see how it would work in the long run. I agree, lebron in chi would be a much better fit.
Quote from: GOMU1104 on June 28, 2010, 08:39:39 PM
I will be beyond shocked if Lebron and Bosh end up anywhere other than Chicago.
Joe Johnson is supposedly very interested in Chicago, as well. Chi-town can't take three...unless they can find someone willing to pick up Deng's contract.
Why would you randomly start a thread all by itself based on a rumor with no backing whatsover? I mean, you don't even try to support it.
Now, if you would have said "LeBron and Bosh are both -300 on sportsbook.com for going to Chicago" then that is at least worth someones time. Not "I heard rumors..." For all we know the rumors were started by your mom.
Stephen A. Smith reported it this morning on the Dan Patrick Radio Show, after confirming with two other reliable sources that both lebron and bosh are interested in going to miami. Then again one GM said its a done deal that lebron is going to chicago.... We'll wait and see,
This is more than just a rumour. I heard Jalen Rose saying the same thing tonight and I had heard from some very realiable sources that this is a real possibility. Players want rings.
And why not start a discussion? I thought that was what this was for. boy are you cranky tonight
No one knows anything...it's all still speculation. Taking what Stephen A. Smith says is only like 5% possibility of being true.
Stephen A. also had Lebron to NY last week. Who knows. I am sure they are all looking closely at Chicago and Miami.
Miami has the benefit of South Beach and the ladies..tough for Chicago to sell against that. Yet somehow I really don't see Wade, Bosh and James on the same team. I think James and Bosh to Chicago paired with Rose, Noah, Deng..now that is a pretty formidable team. I'm pretty sure it would still be LeBron's Bulls, whereas if he goes to Miami - he'd not be the clear cut MAN..DWade has too much love down there.
Here's what Chris Brousard and Marc Stein of espn. com have to say about the rumor:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5338472
The final factor will be cash!
Mami could pull it off with Riley pulling the trigger. Wade would have to give up a bit from his max deal to get LeBron. That would be interesting--Wade making more bucks than LeBron on the same team.
It could easily happen---but my guess is that LeBron's prima donna ego will get in the way!
Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 28, 2010, 09:05:06 PM
In my biased opinion towards the Bulls, Bosh would be much better off playing next to Noah. Bosh is not a big presence on defense and Noah would hide that. You have to slow down Howard and/or Gasol to win the championship, and that Miami team might struggle with that. Miami would be basically at the cap after signing Bosh, James, Wade, and keeping Beasley so they would struggle to find a competitive center. Shaq at the veterans minimum is not gonna do it. Bosh will be a nice pick-setter in a pick and roll with either Wade or Rose though.
Everything I've seen says that Miami HAS to drop beasley to make this work.
This team would not win a championship next year without hitting gold with 2nd round draft picks and unsigned free agents.
I'm starting to think, LBJ and Joe Johnson to chicago. Bosh to the Heat.
Quote from: elephantraker on June 28, 2010, 10:07:39 PM
Lebron would be the spot up shooter and Dwade the slasher and both could work together.
Lebron's weakest part of his game is spot up shooting. Chicago makes more sense for James and Bosh because they have a point guard that can distribute. Miami doesn't have that.
This was all put in place when the Bulls hired WWW's Thibideau.
Quote from: LittleMurs on June 28, 2010, 10:12:15 PM
Joe Johnson is supposedly very interested in Chicago, as well. Chi-town can't take three...unless they can find someone willing to pick up Deng's contract.
Anyone who signs Johnson to a max contract will regret it pretty quickly.
Quote from: The Sultan of South Wayne on June 29, 2010, 07:47:32 AMAnyone who signs Johnson to a max contract will regret it pretty quickly.
Anyone who signs anyone but Wade & LeBron to a max contract will regret it pretty quickly.
Quote from: Brewtown Andy on June 29, 2010, 07:54:16 AM
Anyone who signs anyone but Wade & LeBron to a max contract will regret it pretty quickly.
Yeah....you are right. If Bosh was *that* good, why can't he get the Raptors into the playoffs singlehandedly like James or Wade do?
I'd even be a little concerned about Wade too.
Wade is injury prone and that is a concern. Here's another peice of the puzzle-how many teams win a champoinship in the NBA without a Hall of Fame coach? Whos is Chicago going to get? If LBJ and Bosh end up in Miami Riley might take the team
Quote from: elephantraker on June 29, 2010, 09:38:27 AM
Wade is injury prone and that is a concern. Here's another peice of the puzzle-how many teams win a champoinship in the NBA without a Hall of Fame coach? Whos is Chicago going to get? If LBJ and Bosh end up in Miami Riley might take the team
Think Wade gets a bad rap that he is injury prone. Wade has played in 471 out of a possible 574 regular season games in his career, that's a clip of 82%.
Comparables:
LeBron: 95%
Melo: 89%
Bosh: 88%
Joe Johnson: 85%
Amar'e: 76%
QuoteJoe Johnson is supposedly very interested in Chicago, as well. Chi-town can't take three...unless they can find someone willing to pick up Deng's contract.
Can Chicago still get two without finding a taker for Deng's contract? I mean, and still field a team of enough guys (I don't know what the rest of their roster looks like/how many are under contract.)
QuoteThis was all put in place when the Bulls hired WWW's Thibideau.
This would certainly make sense as to why the Nets were so hot and heavy after Thibideau before he signed on in Chicago. It also makes you wonder how much the Nets getting Thibideau might have influenced the potential Chris Paul - LBJ union in NJ.
QuoteThink Wade gets a bad rap that he is injury prone. Wade has played in 471 out of a possible 574 regular season games in his career, that's a clip of 82%.
That's pretty bad for a star combo guard, isn't it? I think you forecast for around 85% when you sign someone that is 6' 10", but you need more than four out of every five from your floor general.
Quote from: elephantraker on June 29, 2010, 09:38:27 AM
Wade is injury prone and that is a concern. Here's another peice of the puzzle-how many teams win a champoinship in the NBA without a Hall of Fame coach? Whos is Chicago going to get? If LBJ and Bosh end up in Miami Riley might take the team
Phil Jackson wasn't a hall of fame coach when he signed on with the Bulls. Pat Riley wasn't a hall of fame coach when he signed on with the Lakers.
The dream trio scenario in Miami would end up being good for Marquette. If they win 4 or 5 rings, James and Wade both get into the "greatest ever" conversations. Wade will always have one more than James, so Wade would end up winning that argument in all likelihood. Then, Marquette will have produced a player in the conversations with Jordan, Bryant, and Magic.
Which, is a reason for Lebron to take D-Rose as his sidekick guard. Rose is younger, still improving, and will not put an asterisk on James' legacy.
Also, I agree that Joe Johnson and Bosh are not max players. I think if they come with James, though, you just pay it. You know you are overpaying, but live with it because you are getting James.
Cleveland has also basically said that they will not sign and trade James away. Toronto and Atlanta are more than willing to do so with Bosh and Johnson. If I am Chicago or Miami, I don't know how I even feel about a sign and trade with Deng or Beasley to bring in those guys. First of all, it is an upgrade, but not that much, especially for Chicago. Is it really worth maxing out the cap for those guys when you already have reasonable alternatives at a cheaper price. Second of all, that would mean Bosh or Johnson would make more than James.
A sign and trade involving Deng or Beasley might be the only way to get two all-stars added to these teams, but takes away both teams' 6th man and scorer off the bench on a stacked team. Those guys would be the Toni Kukoc coming and and scoring on the opponent's second team.
Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 29, 2010, 10:45:22 AM
The dream trio scenario in Miami would end up being good for Marquette. If they win 4 or 5 rings, James and Wade both get into the "greatest ever" conversations. Wade will always have one more than James, so Wade would end up winning that argument in all likelihood. Then, Marquette will have produced a player in the conversations with Jordan, Bryant, and Magic.
Which, is a reason for Lebron to take D-Rose as his sidekick guard. Rose is younger, still improving, and will not put an asterisk on James' legacy.
Also, I agree that Joe Johnson and Bosh are not max players. I think if they come with James, though, you just pay it. You know you are overpaying, but live with it because you are getting James.
I'm not sure that the "legacy" thing matters as much to LeBron as it did with, say, Kobe who ran Shaq out of town to try and win one as 'the man'. If LeBron teams up with Wade and it works, and they dominate the East for the next 5 years, are there really going to be asterisks next to either of their names? That whole argument is a little over-inflated... when was the last time you heard Magic's career knocked because he won all his championships with Kareem? We make it a big deal, because the last best player in the league, Kobe, made it a big deal.
But I do tend to agree... if he goes to Chicago, he steps onto the court immediately as 'the man' on that team. If he goes to Miami, he presumably does so with Wade, a guy who has already carried that team to a championship. LeBron wouldn't be second-fiddle, but I just get the feeling that Wade has so much accumulated star-power in Miami that LeBron, all that he is, couldn't just step in and take over that team. And he's not used to being anything less than THE guy.
Quote from: shiloh26 on June 29, 2010, 11:15:15 AM
I'm not sure that the "legacy" thing matters as much to LeBron as it did with, say, Kobe who ran Shaq out of town to try and win one as 'the man'. If LeBron teams up with Wade and it works, and they dominate the East for the next 5 years, are there really going to be asterisks next to either of their names? That whole argument is a little over-inflated... when was the last time you heard Magic's career knocked because he won all his championships with Kareem? We make it a big deal, because the last best player in the league, Kobe, made it a big deal.
But I do tend to agree... if he goes to Chicago, he steps onto the court immediately as 'the man' on that team. If he goes to Miami, he presumably does so with Wade, a guy who has already carried that team to a championship. LeBron wouldn't be second-fiddle, but I just get the feeling that Wade has so much accumulated star-power in Miami that LeBron, all that he is, couldn't just step in and take over that team. And he's not used to being anything less than THE guy.
Lebron would be second fiddle to Wade. This is not me just being a homer but a Miami Wade/James/Bosh team... who is shooting the last shot? Wade... Wade is clutch. Jordan shot the last shot, Kobe shots the last shot, and Wade would shoot the last shot. And Wade already owns the town.
Quote from: shiloh26 on June 29, 2010, 11:15:15 AM
I'm not sure that the "legacy" thing matters as much to LeBron as it did with, say, Kobe who ran Shaq out of town to try and win one as 'the man'. If LeBron teams up with Wade and it works, and they dominate the East for the next 5 years, are there really going to be asterisks next to either of their names? That whole argument is a little over-inflated... when was the last time you heard Magic's career knocked because he won all his championships with Kareem? We make it a big deal, because the last best player in the league, Kobe, made it a big deal.
But I do tend to agree... if he goes to Chicago, he steps onto the court immediately as 'the man' on that team. If he goes to Miami, he presumably does so with Wade, a guy who has already carried that team to a championship. LeBron wouldn't be second-fiddle, but I just get the feeling that Wade has so much accumulated star-power in Miami that LeBron, all that he is, couldn't just step in and take over that team. And he's not used to being anything less than THE guy.
I was saying it more as a good thing for Marquette. Lebron and Wade would get into the convo for best ever with 2-4 rings in Miami and Wade would win the tie thanks to winning one without James. Then, Marquette would have produced one of the best players ever.
But though Lebron is less concerned about his legacy than Kobe is for sure, I am sure Lebron does care. Kobe is kind of the extreme competitor who wants to conquer Magic and Michael's legacy. Just because Lebron does not share Kobe's attitude does not mean he does not care. When all the pundits are saying Wade is the man, it will bother Lebron.
Also, the Laker frontline will destroy the Bosh-led Miami frontline. As will Orlando's frontline. Miami won't be able to get a strong defensive front line. They can get some midlevel guys or a veterans minimum or undrafted guys, but will it ever be enough to stop Gasol and Bynum? Bosh and James might need Joakim Noah (or someone like him) to win a title. Chicago is the best spot.
agree. without a solid big man LBJ,Wade and Bosh could not handle Gasol & Bynum
Bynum is as overrated as they come.
To think that Bosh and James need Joakim Noah to succeed is beyond ridiculous. IF Bosh, James, and Wade are on the same team next year, regardless of what city it is in, that team dominates. You LITERALLY need nothing from a center other than to CONTAIN (not even stop, just hold to like 15 points and 8 rebounds) the better centers in the league and grab 7 or so rebounds a game. He could score 0 ppg. Literally. Kurt Thomas could get that job done. With those 3 on 1 team they get 75 ppg, 25 rpg, and 18 apg, just from those 3! They don't need an unbelievable pg either. Look at the Lakers. I have all the resect in the world for Derrick Fisher, but he is nowhere near even a top 15 point guard in the NBA. They're doing alright for themselves. If those 3 go to 1 team that team needs about 5 players who between them can average 25 ppg, 12 rpg, and 12 apg and they win multiple championships. There aren't many NBA players who CANNOT average 5 ppg and either 3 rpg or 3 apg if given the chance to play.
Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 29, 2010, 11:34:05 AM
I was saying it more as a good thing for Marquette. Lebron and Wade would get into the convo for best ever with 2-4 rings in Miami and Wade would win the tie thanks to winning one without James. Then, Marquette would have produced one of the best players ever.
But though Lebron is less concerned about his legacy than Kobe is for sure, I am sure Lebron does care. Kobe is kind of the extreme competitor who wants to conquer Magic and Michael's legacy. Just because Lebron does not share Kobe's attitude does not mean he does not care. When all the pundits are saying Wade is the man, it will bother Lebron.
Also, the Laker frontline will destroy the Bosh-led Miami frontline. As will Orlando's frontline. Miami won't be able to get a strong defensive front line. They can get some midlevel guys or a veterans minimum or undrafted guys, but will it ever be enough to stop Gasol and Bynum? Bosh and James might need Joakim Noah (or someone like him) to win a title. Chicago is the best spot.
I think I conflated 'legacy' with being 'the man.' If LeBron wins a bunch of championships in Miami, I doubt he cares what people say about his legacy. The thing that could bother him in Miami is stepping onto someone else's team, which we agree on.
I seriously doubt Joakim Noah can handle the Laker's or Magic frontline either. Therefore, I don't think that Noah is the magic piece that makes a Bulls team with LeBron better than a Heat team with LeBron, Wade, AND Bosh. I'm sorry if that wasn't what you were suggesting, but it starts to sound like blatant homer-ism.
Quote from: elephantraker on June 29, 2010, 11:46:54 AM
agree. without a solid big man LBJ,Wade and Bosh could not handle Gasol & Bynum
What do you guys mean by "handle?" The Celtics "handled" the Lakers frontline for 6 games while they had Perkins... and they DIDN'T have 2 of the 3 best players in the NBA on their team, plus another all-star. Suggesting that that Heat team would be impotent against the Lakers because of Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum is ludicrous.
Quote from: wadesworld on June 29, 2010, 12:03:09 PM
Kurt Thomas could get that job done.
Udonis Haslem could get that job done. Shaq's dead body could get that done.
Quote from: wadesworld on June 29, 2010, 12:03:09 PM
To think that Bosh and James need Joakim Noah to succeed is beyond ridiculous. IF Bosh, James, and Wade are on the same team next year, regardless of what city it is in, that team dominates. You LITERALLY need nothing from a center other than to CONTAIN (not even stop, just hold to like 15 points and 8 rebounds) the better centers in the league and grab 7 or so rebounds a game. He could score 0 ppg. Literally. Kurt Thomas could get that job done. With those 3 on 1 team they get 75 ppg, 25 rpg, and 18 apg, just from those 3! They don't need an unbelievable pg either. Look at the Lakers. I have all the resect in the world for Derrick Fisher, but he is nowhere near even a top 15 point guard in the NBA. They're doing alright for themselves. If those 3 go to 1 team that team needs about 5 players who between them can average 25 ppg, 12 rpg, and 12 apg and they win multiple championships. There aren't many NBA players who CANNOT average 5 ppg and either 3 rpg or 3 apg if given the chance to play.
You win a lot regular season games with just those three players, but you don't win championships. Maybe they can find good players to play with them, but front lines of Gasol/Bynum or even Noah/Boozer would have career series against Bosh/undraft free-agent. Dwight Howard and Rashard Lewis would do well too. Bosh is not a good defender and needs a good defensive player to hide that. He will easily get into foul trouble too leaving a weak frontline.
It's a great core, but does not have the defense to win multiple titles, in my opinion.
And on a Marquette board do we really think you can win post season basketball games consistently without big guys who can get stops? We above all people should know that. Maybe Haslem or Shaq or Kurt Thomas can be the Dwight Burke of the Heat. Those three will win games, but they will not play championship defense.
what difference does it make if you have defensive hacks when three of the best offensive players in the game are flying up and down the floor? with those three, a coach would have to be legally incompetent to allow a game against a gasol or howard-led front line to slow down enough to become a trudging, halfcourt battle. it just wouldnt happen. bynum, howard, boozer, etc wouldnt be able to keep up with the tempo of play or score enough points to keep up.
what does noah do that bosh can't hang with? at the very VERY least those guys at cancel if they matchup. bosh scores more on noah than the other way around, its not like bosh's D is so bad that noah suddenly turns into wilt chamberlain. boozer couldnt keep up enough to see the court in the olympics, let alone against three of the best offensive players on the planet, so you let him get his 15 and 10 when thins occasionally break down, and you still win by 20.
sure gasol is a major matchup problem, but hes one of the best C's in the league, youre going to have that. i dont think that i spend money on a joackim noah type at the expense of putting together LBJ, Wade, and Bosh to try to mitigate the potential havoc of gasol. just outscore him, run him up and down the floor, and body him with Udonis Haslem, Big Baby, Dwight Burke, or Robert Traylor. Again, hes a guy who gets his 15-20 pts, but they dont kill you. He's getting that against anyone outside of Marcus Camby anyway.
Quote from: shiloh26 on June 29, 2010, 12:06:24 PM
I seriously doubt Joakim Noah can handle the Laker's or Magic frontline either. Therefore, I don't think that Noah is the magic piece that makes a Bulls team with LeBron better than a Heat team with LeBron, Wade, AND Bosh. I'm sorry if that wasn't what you were suggesting, but it starts to sound like blatant homer-ism.
What do you guys mean by "handle?" The Celtics "handled" the Lakers frontline for 6 games while they had Perkins... and they DIDN'T have 2 of the 3 best players in the NBA on their team, plus another all-star. Suggesting that that Heat team would be impotent against the Lakers because of Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum is ludicrous.
Perkins and Garnett do play championship level defense. Plus they had Wallace off the bench. The Bulls would provide a situation where Bosh could start next to Noah and then would have Taj Gibson to back him up and then would have another minimum player or veteran like Kurt Thomas backing up Noah. That is a strong front line. Miami, on the other hand, gives you Bosh starting next to a Kurt Thomas-type veterans minimum player with two mininum salary front line players off the bench. Opposing teams will go right at Bosh and make him guard pick and rolls until he fouls out.
At least Chicago can come back with Taj Gibson, which is better than Miami will be able to do, especially if as others are saying that all you need to do is stand there under the basket with James and Rose/Wade. Depth like that is how you win a playoff series and Miami will not have that.
When the Celtics had to play Sheldon Williams, he did not produce against the Laker front line. Sheldon Williams will probably be better than the minimum salary players that the Heat will sign. Big hacks will not be able to the job, unless putting teams in the bonus is a good strategy.
That Heat team would certainly score enough points to win games, but when has that ever won a title in the last 20 years? They could get lucky and find minimum players who can defend, but you don't win titles out scoring teams.
Quote from: MUBurrow on June 29, 2010, 12:32:20 PM
what difference does it make if you have defensive hacks when three of the best offensive players in the game are flying up and down the floor? with those three, a coach would have to be legally incompetent to allow a game against a gasol or howard-led front line to slow down enough to become a trudging, halfcourt battle. it just wouldnt happen. bynum, howard, boozer, etc wouldnt be able to keep up with the tempo of play or score enough points to keep up.
what does noah do that bosh can't hang with? at the very VERY least those guys at cancel if they matchup. bosh scores more on noah than the other way around, its not like bosh's D is so bad that noah suddenly turns into wilt chamberlain. boozer couldnt keep up enough to see the court in the olympics, let alone against three of the best offensive players on the planet, so you let him get his 15 and 10 when thins occasionally break down, and you still win by 20.
sure gasol is a major matchup problem, but hes one of the best C's in the league, youre going to have that. i dont think that i spend money on a joackim noah type at the expense of putting together LBJ, Wade, and Bosh to try to mitigate the potential havoc of gasol. just outscore him, run him up and down the floor, and body him with Udonis Haslem, Big Baby, Dwight Burke, or Robert Traylor. Again, hes a guy who gets his 15-20 pts, but they dont kill you. He's getting that against anyone outside of Marcus Camby anyway.
Ladies and gentlemen, we have a winner.
Take off the rose tinted glasses Bulls fans. If you think that Wade, Bosh, and Lebron can't win championships together, you are nuts.
Hoops, that's an apples to oranges comparison. For 1, in a 1 game situation the best teams don't always win. In a best of 7 series, the best team will win. For 2, there's a huge difference between a 6'6" 220 lb true SF Lazar Hayward guarding a 6'10" 300 lb true C Dexter Pitman than there is a 6'10 Kurt Thomas guarding a 7' Dwight Howard.
For a more apples to apples comparison (but still really not one) it'd be like putting John Wall (best player -LBJ), Evan Turner (2nd best player -Wade), and Derrick Favors (one of the best offensive power forwards -Bosh) on a team with other average roll players and putting them in an open gym (less control/strategy by coaches at the college game) best of 7 series against this year's Duke team. I'd take my chances with the non-Duke team
So yes, with 2 of the 3 best players in the entire NBA, plus a top 15 big, I do think they would win multiple titles with a center who can do absolutely nothing but defend decently and rebound decently. In facet, between Dexter Pittman and Jarvis Vernardo, 2 of the Heats draft picks, I think that'd be just fine at center with those 3. And I think Jermaine O'Neal's still under contract.
Quote from: Hards_Alumni on June 29, 2010, 12:41:32 PM
Ladies and gentlemen, we have a winner.
Take off the rose tinted glasses Bulls fans. If you think that Wade, Bosh, and Lebron can't win championships together, you are nuts.
They of course CAN win one or a few, but it is a beatable team for sure. Very beatable in a 7 game series. Not a hard game plan. Bosh is very overrated but will get a max. Not a good defender down low at all and does not leave much room add defense around that. You guys can think what you want, but it is a risk they would accept by signing there. James and Wade can't outscore another team after the first round.
They will win the Atlantic Division and probably get homecourt in the East. They can run up and down all regular season. If you think they are going to roll the ball out there with three all-stars and beat the Lakers without more upgrades, I don't know who the nuts one is. You must really think that Bosh is a bigger stud than I think I guess. I have never heard anyone say he is a good defender.
The Nets may have just cleared enough capspace for two free agents as well. Interesting move. Should be a fun week.
Quote from: wadesworld on June 29, 2010, 12:48:15 PM
Hoops, that's an apples to oranges comparison. For 1, in a 1 game situation the best teams don't always win. In a best of 7 series, the best team will win. For 2, there's a huge difference between a 6'6" 220 lb true SF Lazar Hayward guarding a 6'10" 300 lb true C Dexter Pitman than there is a 6'10 Kurt Thomas guarding a 7' Dwight Howard.
For a more apples to apples comparison (but still really not one) it'd be like putting John Wall (best player -LBJ), Evan Turner (2nd best player -Wade), and Derrick Favors (one of the best offensive power forwards -Bosh) on a team with other average roll players and putting them in an open gym (less control/strategy by coaches at the college game) best of 7 series against this year's Duke team. I'd take my chances with the non-Duke team
So yes, with 2 of the 3 best players in the entire NBA, plus a top 15 big, I do think they would win multiple titles with a center who can do absolutely nothing but defend decently and rebound decently. In facet, between Dexter Pittman and Jarvis Vernardo, 2 of the Heats draft picks, I think that'd be just fine at center with those 3. And I think Jermaine O'Neal's still under contract.
To your first paragraph, I agree, the best TEAMS win a series. The whole point of what I have been saying is that Miami might not have the best team overall.
Second paragraph, Kentucky had John Wall and Demarcus Cousins is better than Pittman and did not win it. So, if you clear the team, add Evan Turner, and two roll players, I would definately take Duke or Kentucky's team. Even more so in a 7 game series. I think the whole team matters.
Jermaine O'Neal is off the books. He was making like $20 million and is a reason they have all this space under the cap.
Hey, the Heat CAN win, but they are beatable for sure with that team. Unless you think Chris Bosh is better than people are saying.
according to Ian Thomsen at CNNSI it's unlikely that James and Bosh would both end up on the Bulls
"CHRIS BOSH
Max salary for next season: $16.8 million.
Max contract with Toronto (or sign-and-trade): $125.5 million over six years.
Max contract with a rival team: $96.1 million over five years.
For days we've been hearing speculation that James and Bosh will sign with the Bulls. But the numbers don't add up. Assuming that James receives a max salary of $16.8 million -- he should accept nothing less -- that would leave Bosh with a five-year deal worth $76 million. That means Bosh would be giving up $20 million on a max deal over five years and $50 million on a six-year deal via sign-and-trade. Why would he ever leave $50 million on the table?"
Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/ian_thomsen/06/28/free.agency.guide/index.html?eref=sihp#ixzz0sGcINyPL
Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 29, 2010, 12:57:02 PM
They of course CAN win one or a few, but it is a beatable team for sure. Very beatable in a 7 game series. Not a hard game plan. Bosh is very overrated but will get a max. Not a good defender down low at all and does not leave much room add defense around that. You guys can think what you want, but it is a risk they would accept by signing there. James and Wade can't outscore another team after the first round.
They will win the Atlantic Division and probably get homecourt in the East. They can run up and down all regular season. If you think they are going to roll the ball out there with three all-stars and beat the Lakers without more upgrades, I don't know who the nuts one is. You must really think that Bosh is a bigger stud than I think I guess. I have never heard anyone say he is a good defender.
The Nets may have just cleared enough capspace for two free agents as well. Interesting move. Should be a fun week.
I'm pretty sure MJ, Scottie, and Rodman won with Luc Longley.
Bosh might not be the BEST defender in the league, but it isn't as if they guy is invisible. As these guys have all said, the Heat could put out a cheap defensive specialist out there if they are afraid that Pau Gasol et al. are going to shred them.
Quote from: Hards_Alumni on June 29, 2010, 01:19:57 PM
I'm pretty sure MJ, Scottie, and Rodman won with Luc Longley.
Bosh might not be the BEST defender in the league, but it isn't as if they guy is invisible. As these guys have all said, the Heat could put out a cheap defensive specialist out there if they are afraid that Pau Gasol et al. are going to shred them.
And if the Heat find a compilation of Kukoc, Kerr, Harper, Longley, Wennington, Brian Williams, etc., they they will be the favorites. Luc and Bill Wennington were skilled shooters who opposing teams big men had to respect from 12-15 feet making it easier to get to the basket too. Those two also then provided the stand in front of the opposing team's big guy.
The Bulls role players were not a bunch of stiffs. on either three peat. They brought important skill sets to the team. They were set up to beat Orlando defensively on the second three peat and it was a smart move for them. That is what would worry me about the Heat.
Maybe Pippen and Jordan gave the same as James and Wade and Rodman gives superior defense but inferior offense compared with Bosh. It is a good comparison, but there was a lot more to that team than a three man show. The Bulls did not have to play Dickey Simpkins and the Chief Robert Parrish to win it. Those are the players the Heat would have to try to win with. Luc was only a punchline because Ewing, Shaq, Mourning, and Smits always had big advantages over him. He played a nice role though and it would be hard to find someone like him for the Heat after they spend all their cash.
It will also be hard to find role players this year as so many teams have cap space, the money has to be spent somewhere.
Defensive centers don't grow on trees for Buzz to recruit to Marquette and they don't grow on trees in the NBA either.
Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 29, 2010, 01:29:34 PM
And if the Heat find a compilation of Kukoc, Kerr, Harper, Longley, Wennington, Brian Williams, etc., they they will be the favorites. Luc and Bill Wennington were skilled shooters who opposing teams big men had to respect from 12-15 feet making it easier to get to the basket too. Those two also then provided the stand in front of the opposing team's big guy.
The Bulls role players were not a bunch of stiffs. on either three peat. They brought important skill sets to the team. They were set up to beat Orlando defensively on the second three peat and it was a smart move for them. That is what would worry me about the Heat.
Maybe Pippen and Jordan gave the same as James and Wade and Rodman gives superior defense but inferior offense compared with Bosh. It is a good comparison, but there was a lot more to that team than a three man show. The Bulls did not have to play Dickey Simpkins and the Chief Robert Parrish to win it. Those are the players the Heat would have to try to win with. Luc was only a punchline because Ewing, Shaq, Mourning, and Smits always had big advantages over him. He played a nice role though and it would be hard to find someone like him for the Heat after they spend all their cash.
And that is the part I don't buy. There are plenty of cheap players out there to be had who can fill roles. What is often overlooked is the effect that having Lebron, Wade, and Bosh on one team will have on the surrounding players. The focus will be on the "Big 3" which will naturally open up the role player's games. You are talking as if the only players that the Heat will be able to afford would be guys from the Rec Center.
If you were a former stud on the tail end of your career without a ring, wouldn't you jump at the chance to play with those 3 guys? I mean, I would. :)
Quote from: Hards_Alumni on June 29, 2010, 01:36:31 PM
And that is the part I don't buy. There are plenty of cheap players out there to be had who can fill roles. What is often overlooked is the effect that having Lebron, Wade, and Bosh on one team will have on the surrounding players. The focus will be on the "Big 3" which will naturally open up the role player's games. You are talking as if the only players that the Heat will be able to afford would be guys from the Rec Center.
If you were a former stud on the tail end of your career without a ring, wouldn't you jump at the chance to play with those 3 guys? I mean, I would. :)
I think people would go there, but players do have the chance to sign with the Lakers for the minimum every year too. Lebron could sign for the mid-level with LA if he wants a ring for sure. But maybe this will be such a special spot that people will just do it and sign. Who knows.
I guess one way to look at it is if Jordan/Pippen/Rodman as a whole give you about what Wade/Bosh/James give you (Im sure you could argue for one or the other, but that is not the point). I think that Wade/Bosh/James are going to get the equivalent of Dickey Simpkins, John Salley, and the Chief Robert Parrish in their states during the Bulls' second three peat. The Bulls had a better front line than that. Would the Bulls have won with the Chief and Salley up front with Dennis? No idea. Maybe. But it would be a way weaker one than Kukoc, Wennington, and Longley. Those guys were great role players. They made up for Dennis' weaknesses whereas the Heat may not be able to find people to make up for Bosh's weaknesses. Those guys were perfect compliments to one of the best rebounders ever and pulled big guys out of the paint for Pippen and Jordan and Kukoc to get to the basket. That skill might be hard to find. If it was Dickey and the Chief, it's a different story.
Kerr and Harper were no slouches on the perimeter either. Wade will not be able to avoid guarding Kobe and Rose like MJ was able to because of Harper. Harper complimented Jordan and Pippen perfectly on defense. There may not be a former all-star out there to do that. I don't know if those players are out there. Toni came in and made a HUGE difference off of the bench. Can Beasley give you that? Maybe. Maybe better, who knows.
Miami can win for sure. The second three peat was also an old Bulls team whereas James can play 35-40 mins/game probably. But I guess those examples are what I am trying to say. I don't think that these free agents are just out there. If you think they are and will play for under $1 million, then the Heat can pass the Bulls.
However, I do not think you get three all stars and roll the ball out there with just any stiffs. Not in the playoffs.
Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 29, 2010, 01:53:59 PM
I think people would go there, but players do have the chance to sign with the Lakers for the minimum every year too. Lebron could sign for the mid-level with LA if he wants a ring for sure. But maybe this will be such a special spot that people will just do it and sign. Who knows.
I guess one way to look at it is if Jordan/Pippen/Rodman as a whole give you about what Wade/Bosh/James give you (Im sure you could argue for one or the other, but that is not the point). I think that Wade/Bosh/James are going to get the equivalent of Dickey Simpkins, John Salley, and the Chief Robert Parrish in their states during the Bulls' second three peat. The Bulls had a better front line than that. Would the Bulls have won with the Chief and Salley up front with Dennis? No idea. Maybe. But it would be a way weaker one than Kukoc, Wennington, and Longley. Those guys were great role players. They made up for Dennis' weaknesses whereas the Heat may not be able to find people to make up for Bosh's weaknesses. Those guys were perfect compliments to one of the best rebounders ever and pulled big guys out of the paint for Pippen and Jordan and Kukoc to get to the basket. That skill might be hard to find. If it was Dickey and the Chief, it's a different story.
Kerr and Harper were no slouches on the perimeter either. Wade will not be able to avoid guarding Kobe and Rose like MJ was able to because of Harper. Harper complimented Jordan and Pippen perfectly on defense. There may not be a former all-star out there to do that. I don't know if those players are out there. Toni came in and made a HUGE difference off of the bench. Can Beasley give you that? Maybe. Maybe better, who knows.
Miami can win for sure. The second three peat was also an old Bulls team whereas James can play 35-40 mins/game probably. But I guess those examples are what I am trying to say. I don't think that these free agents are just out there. If you think they are and will play for under $1 million, then the Heat can pass the Bulls.
However, I do not think you get three all stars and roll the ball out there with just any stiffs. Not in the playoffs.
I agree with you mostly. I just don't think it will be just 'any stiffs'.
Just wondering your opinion here... who will stand against the Heat in this situation? Just the Lakers?
Quote from: Hards_Alumni on June 29, 2010, 02:00:47 PM
I agree with you mostly. I just don't think it will be just 'any stiffs'.
Just wondering your opinion here... who will stand against the Heat in this situation? Just the Lakers?
Yeah, pretty much. Maybe if the Nuggets keep improving...
Quote from: Hards_Alumni on June 29, 2010, 02:00:47 PM
I agree with you mostly. I just don't think it will be just 'any stiffs'.
Just wondering your opinion here... who will stand against the Heat in this situation? Just the Lakers?
Out West, I don't think the Nuggets or Spurs would beat the Heat in the Finals. I'd have to see how OK City comes out, but I would give them a chance in the next few years. I'd give them a chance against anyone tho. I like what OK City is doing.
But next year, I would put my money on the Lakers in a Lakers/Heat Finals if that played out. Artest/Odom on Lebron, Kobe on Wade, and Gasol/Odom on Bosh. Fisher would not even have to worry about being exposed. The Lakers are far more likely to stop the Heat than the Heat would be stopping them. Gasol and Bynum would have a field day on offense in my opinion. If one of the big three gets into foul trouble, they would still be able to score, but I would really, really worry about the Miami defense.
In the East, Boston might be done. Orlando could give the Heat trouble. Howard would be a big, big concern for them if he improves like someone in his early 20's would. Lewis would be tough for Bosh, but he would be tough for Lewis too. It'd be a tough series for them. I don't know who I would pick because I don't know how good Howard is going to be. I'd give the edge to the Heat in 6 right now, because they are pretty weak defensively on the wing.
Then it depends on the free agents. If Bosh/James go to the Heat, someone is going to get Joe Johnson and a big guy, either Boozer or Amare. If it is Chicago, it would be a tough series for Miama to defend Rose/Johnson/Deng/Boozer/Noah. James and Wade can only guard two of them. Someone would be in pick and rolls all game with Rose and Boozer and might get worn out over 7 games. Plus Thibideau has already schemed ways to stop James and Wade. Itd be another tough series. If the Nets get two free agents, then look at them too. I would have to see the teams play together, but it would be pretty high scoring. It really depends on how good you think Joakim Noah really is. The Bulls would have a better overall collection of players and would be hard to defend against.
The Heat will be top 5 in the league and probably get the most regular season wins, but Orlando, whoever gets two free agents in the East, OK City, and LA will give them trouble. I am sure we all imagine Wade and James having great games and beating those teams, but they will have to win against at least 2 of those teams in a seven game series. It would depend on them getting role players.
That is how I see the league if free agency shakes out with James and Bosh to the Heat.
This would be awesome but this doesn't mean that Chicago can't get Joe Johnson and Amare or any other allstar free agent.
Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 29, 2010, 02:20:47 PM
Out West, I don't think the Nuggets or Spurs would beat the Heat in the Finals.
The Spurs? Too old and broken down. They need an infusion of youth on that team if they are going to win anything before the complete post-Duncan rebuild starts.
Quote from: wadefan#1 on June 29, 2010, 03:14:14 PM
This would be awesome but this doesn't mean that Chicago can't get Joe Johnson and Amare or any other allstar free agent.
It's going to be very competitive. The Bulls can maybe win a title with Johnson and Amare or Boozer too. That would be a lineup that could score enough points to win it. They would be really strong up front with Deng/Noah/Free Agent/Gibson/Veteran big man and could defend the Lakers upfront maybe better than any other team in the league. It really just depends if you think Noah is a borderline all-star or not. Noah has showed up in the playoffs both years he has been in them.
If the Nets get Joe Johnson and Amare or Boozer, they would be almost as competitive, but would lack the difference maker at guard in Rose.
Quote from: Hards_Alumni on June 29, 2010, 12:41:32 PM
Ladies and gentlemen, we have a winner.
Take off the rose tinted glasses Bulls fans. If you think that Wade, Bosh, and Lebron can't win championships together, you are nuts.
Its going to be hard when the Heat will have no money to make a roster.
Quote from: ErickJD08 on June 29, 2010, 03:30:29 PM
Its going to be hard when the Heat will have no money to make a roster.
As others have stated, many old vets will play on a one-year, league minimum salary for a shot at what would seem to be almost guarantee ring. These are guys that would still be able to play and contribute.
No matter if the Miami deal happens or not, if say James & Bosh together go to either NY, NJ or CHI you will see the same thing.
Quote from: RJax55 on June 29, 2010, 03:37:22 PM
As others have stated, many old vets will play on a one-year, league minimum salary for a shot at what would seem to be almost guarantee ring. These are guys that would still be able to play and contribute.
No matter if the Miami deal happens or not, if say James & Bosh together go to either NY, NJ or CHI you will see the same thing.
The veteran minimum exception I think is about $1.5 million. It is the exception that got the Lakers Karl Malone that one year. And you can only do it every other year as far as I know. Otherwise the actually veteran minimum is about $1.3 million, which the Heat literally cannot afford if they sign those three. They can use the mid-level every year if the Heat's owner wants to put up every year.
When has a veteran minimum ever been the difference on a championship team, and a veteran that actually mattered in the starting lineup? I literally cannot think of one.
This roster is not going to just fill up like people think. Taking three max players is a big risk.
Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 29, 2010, 03:50:36 PM
The veteran minimum exception I think is about $1.5 million. It is the exception that got the Lakers Karl Malone that one year. And you can only do it every other year as far as I know. Otherwise the actually veteran minimum is about $1.3 million, which the Heat literally cannot afford if they sign those three. They can use the mid-level every year if the Heat's owner wants to put up every year.
When has a veteran minimum ever been the difference on a championship team, and a veteran that actually mattered in the starting lineup? I literally cannot think of one.
This roster is not going to just fill up like people think. Taking three max players is a big risk.
This is a unique situation and should be treated as such. Veteran minimum exception is also based on number of years in the league.
Good article on Miami: http://www.nba.com/news/features/aldridge.2010.freeagency/index.html?ls=iref:nbahpt1
Quote from: Hards_Alumni on June 29, 2010, 04:06:20 PM
This is a unique situation and should be treated as such. Veteran minimum exception is also based on number of years in the league.
I thought the minimum and the minimum exception is two different things. The minimum a player can make depends on years in the league and does count towards a salary cap.
When a team is over the cap, they can sign a veteran to the veterans minimum exception and does not count toward the cap.
It is a unique situation, but a veteran taking the minimum has never really made the difference on a title. Maybe here it would, who knows.
Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 29, 2010, 04:09:39 PM
I thought the minimum and the minimum exception is two different things. The minimum a player can make depends on years in the league and does count towards a salary cap.
When a team is over the cap, they can sign a veteran to the veterans minimum exception and does not count toward the cap.
It is a unique situation, but a veteran taking the minimum has never really made the difference on a title. Maybe here it would, who knows.
More likely, they'd sign someone to a mid-level exception, which is the NBA average salary for one year and doesn't count against the cap. Karl Malone was signed to the minimum level exception when he joined the LA Lakers...Gary Payton signed the mid level exception (I think).
Here's the update from my NBA front office people (believe what you want):
-Chances are VERY slim LBJ signs in Miami, it's just not happening
-LBJ is either re-signing with the Cavs or coming to Chicago
-Bulls are lukewarm on Bosh. Issue is if they sign LBJ, Bosh, and Noah, it's too many pieces that are the same. Bulls like Joe Johnson more than Bosh, but not at max money. They LOVE Redick, and would love to sign/trade for him, but no way Orlando would take Deng back.
-That said about Bosh, if it means signing Bosh to get LBJ, Bulls will do it.
-Bosh is only going to either Miami, Chicago, or New York. There's no way he goes to Cleveland if LBJ signs there (which could only be via sign/trade).
-If LBJ re-signs with Cleveland, Bulls will look at Amare. If Paul Pierce opts out, they'll go hard after him (if LBJ goes to Cleveland)
There's a lot going on there, but I trust my guys.
Quote from: MUDish on June 29, 2010, 07:12:11 PM
Here's the update from my NBA front office people (believe what you want):
-Chances are VERY slim LBJ signs in Miami, it's just not happening
-LBJ is either re-signing with the Cavs or coming to Chicago
-Bulls are lukewarm on Bosh. Issue is if they sign LBJ, Bosh, and Noah, it's too many pieces that are the same. Bulls like Joe Johnson more than Bosh, but not at max money. They LOVE Redick, and would love to sign/trade for him, but no way Orlando would take Deng back.
-That said about Bosh, if it means signing Bosh to get LBJ, Bulls will do it.
-Bosh is only going to either Miami, Chicago, or New York. There's no way he goes to Cleveland if LBJ signs there (which could only be via sign/trade).
-If LBJ re-signs with Cleveland, Bulls will look at Amare. If Paul Pierce opts out, they'll go hard after him (if LBJ goes to Cleveland)
There's a lot going on there, but I trust my guys.
Hope its true. But Joe Johnson, whether he deserves it or not, will get a max deal. Most likely Knicks because they have a terrible front office. And I don't understand how LBJ, Noah, and Bosh are the same pieces?
Quote from: The Sultan of South Wayne on June 29, 2010, 04:19:36 PM
More likely, they'd sign someone to a mid-level exception, which is the NBA average salary for one year and doesn't count against the cap. Karl Malone was signed to the minimum level exception when he joined the LA Lakers...Gary Payton signed the mid level exception (I think).
Sorry, but LBJ, Wade, and Bosh is not an automatic championship. There are great role players on every championship team. Even with Boston, Rondo became the most important player on the team. Quality players that have quality years left are not going to sacrifice money for championships. They are in the business where they need to cash in on one or MAYBE two good contracts.
I am not saying a Miami team with those three can not win but they need role players too.
LBJ, Noah, Bosh put the Bulls too forward heavy cash wise going forward. If Noah was more of a true 5, it would be less of an issue.
Rose will get max money in a few years, Noah won't get max money but will get Deng like money in a few years as well.
Bulls preference would be paying a shooter or a taller 2 guard. If Ray Allen were about 4 years younger, Bulls (and many others) would be highly coveted.
Quote from: ErickJD08 on June 29, 2010, 07:49:39 PM
Quality players that have quality years left are not going to sacrifice money for championships.
IF this is true (which I am not yet cynical enough to believe) these 15 words are the reason why the NBA sucks.
Quote from: MUDish on June 29, 2010, 08:09:57 PM
LBJ, Noah, Bosh put the Bulls too forward heavy cash wise going forward. If Noah was more of a true 5, it would be less of an issue.
Rose will get max money in a few years, Noah won't get max money but will get Deng like money in a few years as well.
Bulls preference would be paying a shooter or a taller 2 guard. If Ray Allen were about 4 years younger, Bulls (and many others) would be highly coveted.
He is a center. Not sure what other category he would fall under. For a PF, he doesn't really have the offensive skill set to fall under a PF.
Quote from: ATL MU Warrior on June 29, 2010, 08:51:27 PM
IF this is true (which I am not yet cynical enough to believe) these 15 words are the reason why the NBA sucks.
Its like that for every professional sport. Why do you think Peppers is on the Bears? Because they are Super Bowl contenders? Why are the Blackhawks going to lose a bunch of players?
Quote from: MUDish on June 29, 2010, 07:12:11 PM
Here's the update from my NBA front office people (believe what you want):
-Chances are VERY slim LBJ signs in Miami, it's just not happening
-LBJ is either re-signing with the Cavs or coming to Chicago
-Bulls are lukewarm on Bosh. Issue is if they sign LBJ, Bosh, and Noah, it's too many pieces that are the same. Bulls like Joe Johnson more than Bosh, but not at max money. They LOVE Redick, and would love to sign/trade for him, but no way Orlando would take Deng back.
-That said about Bosh, if it means signing Bosh to get LBJ, Bulls will do it.
-Bosh is only going to either Miami, Chicago, or New York. There's no way he goes to Cleveland if LBJ signs there (which could only be via sign/trade).
-If LBJ re-signs with Cleveland, Bulls will look at Amare. If Paul Pierce opts out, they'll go hard after him (if LBJ goes to Cleveland)
There's a lot going on there, but I trust my guys.
Paul Pierce is not a name I had heard. Interesting option, though he is at the end of his career.
Reddick would also be an interesting 2 guard with Rose and James as well.
This week is like Christmas Eve.
Quote from: shiloh26 on June 29, 2010, 12:06:24 PM
I think I conflated 'legacy' with being 'the man.' If LeBron wins a bunch of championships in Miami, I doubt he cares what people say about his legacy. The thing that could bother him in Miami is stepping onto someone else's team, which we agree on.
I seriously doubt Joakim Noah can handle the Laker's or Magic frontline either. Noah, put up 11 and 11 n the season and 15 and 13 on 53% shooting in the playoffs. He's only 25, works his ass off and just put up 15 and 13. He's probably better than you realize, and 10X better than whatever unsigned draft pick Miami would have to start. You realize that Miami would have to have about 3 2nd round draft picks and unsigned free agendas who need to play significant minutes? They would win a lot of games, but I wouldn't perdict a championship.
What do you guys mean by "handle?" The Celtics "handled" the Lakers frontline for 6 games while they had Perkins... and they DIDN'T have 2 of the 3 best players in the NBA on their team, plus another all-star. Suggesting that that Heat team would be impotent against the Lakers because of Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum is ludicrous. I'm not going to suggest anyone is impotent but I think the other thing that isn't being said is that Fisher wouldn't even be able to come close to guarding rose, that match up issue would be the a bigger problem than any imagined liability from Noah. I honestly feel like 3 guys + nobody will have a hard time with the lakers next year in a 7 game series. They would be a better team than the Heat team that won a few years back though. If the bulls have Noah, LBJ, Bosh, Deng, Gibson and Rose they have a huge advantage in terms of talent at guys 4-7 over what Miami would have. Hell Pargo and Warrick at the tail end of the rotation might be better than players 4 &5 on Miami.
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Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 29, 2010, 10:32:26 PM
Paul Pierce is not a name I had heard. Interesting option, though he is at the end of his career.
Reddick would also be an interesting 2 guard with Rose and James as well.
This week is like Christmas Eve.
Pierce will demand way too much for what he's worth. I think we'd be a contender with Boozer and Johnson so there are plenty of options.
If a team can get Joe Johnson and Boozer for under the cap, then that would be great. I am not sure they are worth the max, though. Rose/Johnson/Deng/Boozer/Noah would be a solid lineup though. That team could maybe get out of the east and Boozer would at least have Noah next to him to guard Pau.
If the Bulls strike out, it will be awful. I'd rather see them add a lot of pieces rather than blow money on someone. I'd take Boozer for $12 million and then add a bunch of other pieces if that is all they can do. No need to get crazy.
NY is going to make a big mistake signing Johnson and Amare to max deals. That is a 45-50 win and second round loss team at best. And that basically keeps them out of recruiting other max guys as clearing enough space for another max player is not realistic.
In the end, though, let's get James!
Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 29, 2010, 04:06:51 PM
Good article on Miami: http://www.nba.com/news/features/aldridge.2010.freeagency/index.html?ls=iref:nbahpt1
Great article, I just don't see how this could happen.
Wade "wanted to get box seats and I was able to get him seats at the last minute."
Last minute tickets to a sox game, that's unheard of!
Quote from: HoopsMalone on June 30, 2010, 01:52:22 PM
NY is going to make a big mistake signing Johnson and Amare to max deals. That is a 45-50 win and second round loss team at best. And that basically keeps them out of recruiting other max guys as clearing enough space for another max player is not realistic.
The news today is that the Hawks are going to offer Johnson the max, something near 6 yrs/120 mil. Considering he left Phoenix for a crapload of cash once before, I doubt he passes that up. I think a lot more of these guys, including LeBron, will be staying home than people expected (hoped for).
Johnson is not worth that kind of jack!
Quote from: willie warrior on July 01, 2010, 10:10:15 AM
Johnson is not worth that kind of jack!
Oh he sure isn't, he who disappeared in that Magic series (12 ppg?). And he'll be 30 by the time the contract begins. Oy. But he'll get it somewhere, because NBA GM's are gluttons for punishment and refuse to learn from mistakes in the past. They love overpaying decent players (Elton Brand, Gilbert Arenas even at the time, Rashard Lewis for the cash he makes, Kenyon Martin, the examples could go on forever.) Amare will get a max contract too despite the fact that he can't guard a lamppost and has already had microfracture surgery.
Probably old news by now, but Bulls met with Bosh last night. Meeting with Wade right now as we speak.
Believe it or not, Wade's people contacted the Bulls to set up the meeting. Don't read too much into that though. Odds are still 99.5% he's re-signing with the Heat.
Bulls brass (Reinsdorf, Gar/Pax, Tibs) going to Akron tomorrow. Possible there might be a "big name" going with them as well. I can't divulge who.
Quote from: MUDish on July 01, 2010, 01:16:59 PM
Probably old news by now, but Bulls met with Bosh last night. Meeting with Wade right now as we speak.
Believe it or not, Wade's people contacted the Bulls to set up the meeting. Don't read too much into that though. Odds are still 99.5% he's re-signing with the Heat.
Bulls brass (Reinsdorf, Gar/Pax, Tibs) going to Akron tomorrow. Possible there might be a "big name" going with them as well. I can't divulge who.
My calendar is already full for tomorrow.
Quote from: MUDish on July 01, 2010, 01:16:59 PM
Bulls brass (Reinsdorf, Gar/Pax, Tibs) going to Akron tomorrow. Possible there might be a "big name" going with them as well. I can't divulge who.
Please be Charles Oakley...
Update, Bulls moved their meeting with LBJ to Saturday, in hopes of bringing in their special guest to help close the deal.
Lots of rumors the last few weeks that Scottie Pippen would go to recruit free agents with the Bulls.
Pippen was supposedly at the White Sox game the same day as Wade.
Quote from: JWags85 on July 01, 2010, 01:21:07 PM
Please be Charles Oakley...
Haha, that would be hilarious!
I wonder how MJ would react if LBJ stole his personal bodyguard/friend/lackey.
My guess is that its Bulls' lifetime assistant coach, Pete Myers!
Oakley and LBJ are tight. Oakley has said he thinks LBJ should/will sign with the Bulls.