Thursday, December 4, 2014
The age of the roster is already proving to be a problem as we're dealing with fatigue especially in the front court of Brook Lopez & Kevin Garnett. When we already lost Joe Johnson early to a torn achilles.
As i pointed in a previous post we were limited on options at the small forward, despite having 3/4 guys capable of starting the position. Once Johnson went down we struggled to put points on the board even more so when we went to the bench.
Not long after this Sergey Karasev started mumbling and grumbling about his role and minutes (much like real life) so i shopped him immediately. The team struggles enough to not need a chemistry issue. Options were limited (due to my stipulation on trading draft picks). We ended up finding a deal with Miami. Karasev & our 2018 2nd round pick for Danny Granger. While some view Danny as being on the decline it was a move that had to be made. Danny can start at the 3 and that allows us to keep Bogdanovic coming off the bench which is an extremely effective floor stretching unit.
So looking at the team stats after the first month. Some surprises some were expected.
| Brooklyn Nets Stats - 2014-15 | |||||||||
| Player | GP | MIN | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | TPG | FPG |
| Deron Williams | 15 | 34.4 | 20.7 | 3.3 | 7.9 | 1.3 | 0.2 | .476 | .414 |
| Brook Lopez | 15 | 31.0 | 14.1 | 9.6 | 0.9 | 0.6 | 1.1 | .481 | .500 |
| Joe Johnson (INJ) | 4 | 27.7 | 12.7 | 2.0 | 2.5 | 0.7 | 0.0 | .415 | .400 |
| Alan Anderson | 15 | 30.7 | 11.9 | 3.7 | 2.2 | 0.8 | 0.1 | .427 | .320 |
| Bojan Bogdanovic | 15 | 25.3 | 9.9 | 3.3 | 0.8 | 0.1 | 0.3 | .459 | .483 |
| Danny Granger | 15 | 20.2 | 9.5 | 1.9 | 0.6 | 0.5 | 0.4 | .438 | .372 |
| Mirza Teletovic | 15 | 21.1 | 9.2 | 5.8 | 0.4 | 0.4 | 0.5 | .442 | .319 |
| Jarrett Jack | 15 | 25.3 | 9.1 | 1.9 | 5.9 | 0.4 | 0.1 | .418 | .324 |
| Kevin Garnett | 15 | 26.3 | 7.4 | 6.3 | 1.2 | 0.7 | 0.5 | .475 | .000 |
| Mason Plumlee | 15 | 20.5 | 4.5 | 7.3 | 0.4 | 0.3 | 0.4 | .509 | .000 |
| Markel Brown | 8 | 8.5 | 2.6 | 0.7 | 0.6 | 0.6 | 0.1 | .533 | .600 |
| Andrei Kirilenko | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Cory Jefferson | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Jorge Gutierrez | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Deron Williams is still performing at a high level which has been huge for us as Brook Lopez continues to struggle. Some games he comes out strong and other games he dissapears all together.
Alan Anderson is having a career year so far. Sure he is playing an extra 8mpg than ever before but he was proving to be effective as a 4th or 5th option. Unfortunately his numbers have slipped slightly since Johnson went down, but he has done enough to fight Granger for the starting SF spot when Johnson returns.
Rookie Markel Brown has impressed in limited minutes especially shooting that three ball. But has also shown flashes as a slasher. Which is great news for us as the roster continues to age.
Onto the Game analysis.
| New Jersey Nets at Philadelphia 76ers | |||||
| Jan 1, | 1ST | 2ND | 3RD | 4TH | SCORE |
| New Jersey () | 28 | 23 | 25 | 27 | 103 |
| Philadelphia () | 22 | 17 | 22 | 29 | 90 |
| New Jersey Nets | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Deron Williams | 37 | 13-24 | 2-6 | 1-2 | 4 | 9 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 29 |
| Alan Anderson | 26 | 3-7 | 3-5 | 0-0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 9 |
| Danny Granger | 30 | 4-9 | 2-3 | 1-2 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 11 |
| Kevin Garnett | 24 | 2-4 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 9 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 |
| Brook Lopez | 30 | 8-17 | 0-0 | 4-6 | 10 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 20 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Jarrett Jack | 28 | 4-9 | 2-4 | 2-3 | 3 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 12 |
| Mason Plumlee | 22 | 4-7 | 0-0 | 0-1 | 8 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 8 |
| Bojan Bogdanovic | 26 | 2-7 | 2-6 | 0-0 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| Mirza Teletovic | 22 | 2-4 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 42-88 | 11-25 | 8-14 | 48 | 26 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 103 | |
| Philadelphia 76ers | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Michael Carter-Williams | 37 | 6-17 | 1-4 | 5-6 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 18 |
| Tony Wroten | 37 | 9-23 | 2-8 | 6-8 | 6 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 26 |
| Luc Mbah a Moute | 35 | 3-9 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 11 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| Nerlens Noel | 37 | 4-6 | 0-0 | 1-1 | 9 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 9 |
| Brandon Davies | 35 | 1-7 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 10 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Henry Sims | 14 | 5-9 | 0-0 | 1-2 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 11 |
| Alexey Shved | 14 | 4-8 | 2-3 | 0-0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 10 |
| Hollis Thompson | 15 | 2-5 | 1-3 | 1-2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 6 |
| Jerami Grant | 10 | 1-4 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| K.J. McDaniels | 12 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 35-88 | 6-20 | 14-19 | 54 | 16 | 1 | 1 | 8 | 90 | |
The Good:
- Stars making their money. Both Williams and Lopez came out and made their prescence felt as they should over a team struggling like the Sixers.
- Defense, although a weak team we held their shooting from the floor and behind the arc at very respectable %s
- Assist numbers, the team is finally playing team ball. Which is something we've been looking for all year so far.
The Bad:
- Fatigue is starting to kill us. Garnett and Lopez could only muster 23 & 29mpg respectively. Granted we deferred to the bench guys for most of the game its not great seeing two key parts of the team already struggling so early in the year.
- Rebound, well what rebounds, how we let Philly take 15off rebounds i will never know. Especially Sims with 10 off the bench.
The Ugly
- Phillys backcourt shooting. For two guys who aren't supposed to be known for their shooting we got abused by them. Sure they shot horrible %s but they made the ones that counted which kept a bad team hanging around.
- FT Shooting... 57% just simply isn't good enough. We're getting the attempts just not converting them which is going to hurt seriously in the long run.
Next game we will be travelling across town for game 2 with the Knicks who are currently leading the divison with a 12-6 record.
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
We had opened the season on a 3-0 record. With wins over Boston, Detroit & blowout over an injury depleted Oklahoma. Next up on the schedule we had the Timberwolves coming into Brooklyn. Also sporting their own 3-0 record.
| Minnesota Timberwolves at New Jersey Nets | |||||
| Jan 1, | 1ST | 2ND | 3RD | 4TH | SCORE |
| Minnesota (3-0) | 18 | 21 | 24 | 26 | 89 |
| New Jersey (3-0) | 25 | 23 | 26 | 20 | 94 |
| Minnesota Timberwolves | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Deron Williams | 38 | 10-23 | 3-5 | 5-6 | 3 | 11 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 28 |
| Joe Johnson | 8 | 0-2 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Alan Anderson | 32 | 4-8 | 1-3 | 1-2 | 6 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 10 |
| Kevin Garnett | 25 | 5-9 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 10 |
| Brook Lopez | 31 | 7-13 | 0-0 | 3-4 | 11 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 17 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Bojan Bogdanovic | 30 | 3-10 | 3-6 | 2-2 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 11 |
| Jarrett Jack | 26 | 4-4 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 1 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 8 |
| Mirza Teletovic | 22 | 2-6 | 0-2 | 0-0 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Mason Plumlee | 21 | 2-4 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 9 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 4 |
| Markel Brown | 6 | 0-1 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 41/94 | 4/14 | 3/7 | 48 | 22 | 8 | 2 | 7 | 89 | |
| New Jersey Nets | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Mo Williams | 41 | 8-22 | 1-3 | 0-0 | 7 | 11 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 17 |
| Corey Brewer | 36 | 6-14 | 0-4 | 1-2 | 4 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 13 |
| Andrew Wiggins | 9 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Thaddeus Young | 32 | 5-13 | 0-2 | 0-0 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 10 |
| Nikola Pekovic | 31 | 8-13 | 0-0 | 1-1 | 13 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 17 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Anthony Bennet | 22 | 4-6 | 2-2 | 0-0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 10 |
| Shabazz Muhammad | 16 | 4-12 | 0-2 | 0-0 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 8 |
| Chase Budinger | 14 | 3-3 | 1-1 | 0-0 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7 |
| Zach LaVine | 16 | 2-6 | 0-0 | 0-2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
| Gorgui Dieng | 14 | 1-3 | 0-0 | 1-2 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Ronny Turiaf | 14 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 37/80 | 7/18 | 13/16 | 50 | 24 | 4 | 3 | 10 | 94 | |
Game Analysis
We started out strong once again with Deron Williams making his prescence felt. Almost returning to his All Star form, hoping he can maintain this level of play. In a huge blow we lost Joe Johnson towards the end of the first quarter. With a team already struggling with depth this will be a huge blow. While Alan Anderson has played well so far he will have to give more on the offensive end. We really struggled to find a line up that could keep us strong without depleting bench options at the same time. It becomes very easy to become a shooting team once the bench players roll out with has been effective so far but it certainly isn't an attribute of a playoff team.
The Good
- Deron Williams continuing his hot start currently averaging 24.8ppg & 8apg on 36mpg
- Lopez slowly finding his feet back under the basket giving us an early option
- Jarrett Jack once again bringing it strong as our 6th man averaging 9.5ppg & 6apg on 24mpg also shooting 58% from the floor
The Bad
- We allowed a back up point guard in Mo Williams a double double.
- Still struggling to maintain a prescence when the starters sit.
- Continuing to allow teams back into games in the 4th quarters
The Ugly
- Joe Johnson tears his Achilles Tendon 9 minutes into the game. Resulting in a 2-4 month abscence.
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Team: Brooklyn Nets
Scenario: 6 Years to return Brooklyn as a title contender
Stipulations: Use only the picks owed to Brooklyn, also including and following rules for the protected picks from Atlanta (15) Boston (17 & 18)
Only one starting caliber player can be signed from FA in the first 3 years.
Shoutout to Redsox for the team and scenario.
Scenario: 6 Years to return Brooklyn as a title contender
Stipulations: Use only the picks owed to Brooklyn, also including and following rules for the protected picks from Atlanta (15) Boston (17 & 18)
Only one starting caliber player can be signed from FA in the first 3 years.
Shoutout to Redsox for the team and scenario.
Roster & Sliders: Sim World http://www.operationsports.com/forums/nba-2k-basketball-rosters/756839-simworld-nba-2k15-experience-xbox-one.html
Draft Classes: http://www.operationsports.com/forums/nba-2k-basketball-rosters/754945-nba-2k15-fictional-draft-classes-cwsapp757-dreece-blindside-xbox-one.html
So looking at the team.
| Brooklyn Nets Depth Chart - 1 | ||||
| STARTER | 2ND | 3RD | 4TH | |
| PG | Deron Williams | Jarrett Jack | ||
| SG | Joe Johnson | Markel Brown | ||
| SF | Alan Anderson | Bojan Bogdanovic | Sergey Karasev | |
| PF | Kevin Garnett | Mirza Teletovic | Cory Jefferson | |
| C | Brook Lopez | Mason Plumlee | Jerome Jordan | |
Immediate Issues:
- Kevin Garnett is in the final year of his deal.
- Long term starter at SF (I'll be dealing with Kirilenko in whichever way he is dealt IRL)
- Serious, serious lack of perimeter defensive options.
Game One & Analysis
| New Jersey Nets at Boston Celtics | |||||
| Jan 1, | 1ST | 2ND | 3RD | 4TH | SCORE |
| New Jersey (0-0) | 25 | 21 | 25 | 31 | 102 |
| Boston (0-0) | 20 | 27 | 23 | 17 | 87 |
| New Jersey Nets | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Deron Williams | 36 | 11/16 | 2/3 | 3/3 | 2 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 27 |
| Joe Johnson | 37 | 8/13 | 3/6 | 3/5 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 22 |
| Alan Anderson | 34 | 5/8 | 1/3 | 2/2 | 2 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 13 |
| Kevin Garnett | 27 | 2/5 | 0/0 | 1/2 | 8 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| Brook Lopez | 33 | 5/14 | 0/0 | 2/2 | 15 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 12 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Bojan Bogdanovic | 16 | 4/6 | 2/2 | 2/2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 12 |
| Mason Plumlee | 17 | 2/3 | 0/0 | 1/2 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 |
| Jarrett Jack | 23 | 2/9 | 0/4 | 0/0 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 4 |
| Mirza Teletovic | 20 | 1/3 | 0/1 | 0/0 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 40/77 | 8/19 | 14/18 | 41 | 22 | 5 | 2 | 9 | 102 | |
| Boston Celtics | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Rajon Rondo | 38 | 6/20 | 1/6 | 3/4 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 16 |
| Avery Bradley | 36 | 5/7 | 1/2 | 0/0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 11 |
| Jeff Green | 38 | 4/11 | 0/0 | 2/3 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 10 |
| Jared Sullinger | 35 | 3/9 | 0/0 | 1/1 | 11 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 7 |
| Kelly Olynyk | 34 | 10/16 | 0/0 | 5/6 | 16 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 25 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Marcus Smart | 13 | 3/8 | 1/2 | 0/0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7 |
| Marcus Thornton | 11 | 2/6 | 1/5 | 0/0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 5 |
| Brandon Bass | 14 | 2/2 | 0/0 | 0/0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Evan Turner | 16 | 1/3 | 0/0 | 0/0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Tyler Zeller | 10 | 0/0 | 0/0 | 0/0 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 36/83 | 4/16 | 11/14 | 42 | 19 | 6 | 2 | 10 | 87 | |
The Good:
- Williams & Johnson getting their points despite a tough Boston backcourt.
- Bogdanovic with some quality shooting off the bench
- Alan Andersons defense on Jeff Green. It was a game time decision to start him over Bogdanovic strictly for defensive purposes. Likely to be the starter for the forseeable future.
The Bad:
- While everybody was passing, no real playmaker emerged
- Unable to pull away until the last 5 minutes, likely due to fatigue as the CPU doesn't sub often enough.
The Ugly:
- Brook Lopez got abused on both ends of the floor. Something that a guy still set to earn $30 million over the next two years should not be doing. Especially against a second year guy in Olynyk.
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Game 1: DeMar goes down with a broken back. Manage to take the win.
Game 2: Holden, bone bruise. Out indefinitely. Loss
Game 3: Win
Game 4: Win
Game 5: Win
Vs Miami.
Game 1: Walker, severe ankle sprain. Loss
Game 2: Win
Game 3: Fatigue sets in, Loss
Game 4: Loss
Game 5: Win
Game 6: Valanciunas is gone too.
Game 2: Holden, bone bruise. Out indefinitely. Loss
Game 3: Win
Game 4: Win
Game 5: Win
Vs Miami.
Game 1: Walker, severe ankle sprain. Loss
Game 2: Win
Game 3: Fatigue sets in, Loss
Game 4: Loss
Game 5: Win
Game 6: Valanciunas is gone too.
Playoffs over.
Couldn't believe it. 2k hates me right now.
Anyway onto the Off Season
Retirements
Tim Duncan - New York Knicks (Hall Of Fame)
Andrei Kirilenko - New York Knicks
David West - Indiana Pacers
Tim Duncan - New York Knicks (Hall Of Fame)
Andrei Kirilenko - New York Knicks
David West - Indiana Pacers
Dwayne Casey retires (Never seen this happen before)
Monty Williams is brought in for 1yr. Stating, "The team was unlucky and the reserves fought as hard as they could. Only to be ousted by healthy teams. But i will bring them back this year. Toronto will have another championship."
We accept the team option on Tremaine Alexander
Chuck Hayes agrees to come back for another season.
Draft Day Trades:
Boston trades: 1st Round Pick 8
Toronto trades: Marquis Teague, 1st Round Pick 17
Golden State trades: 2017 1st Round Pick 20
Toronto trades: Amir Johnson
Toronto trades: Marquis Teague, 1st Round Pick 17
Golden State trades: 2017 1st Round Pick 20
Toronto trades: Amir Johnson
| 2017 NBA Draft (DC4) | |||||
| Pick | Team | Player | Pos | Ht | Wt |
| 1 | Dallas Mavericks | Vatily Andropov | C | 7'1" | 277 |
| 2 | Orlando Magic | Russell Lawson | SG/SF | 6'5" | 215 |
| 3 | Cleveland Cavaliers | Shawn Carter | SF | 6'7" | 217 |
| 4 | Atlanta Hawks | Metrick McGee | SG/SF | 6'7" | 210 |
| 5 | Milwaukee Bucks | Justin Tryon | SF | 6'7" | 231 |
| 6 | Phoenix Suns | Zachary Grinnage | PG/SG | 6'4" | 212 |
| 7 | San Antonio Spurs | J'Vonte Creecy | PG/SG | 6'2" | 188 |
| 8 | Toronto Raptors | Ment Powers | PF | 6'9" | 240 |
| 9 | Los Angeles Lakers | Cabri Coke | SF/PF | 6'9" | 210 |
| 10 | Portland Trail Blazers | Nevil Burns | SG/SF | 6'6" | 207 |
| 11 | Charlotte Bobcats | Tyrese Dawson | C | 6'10' | 272 |
| 12 | Denver Nuggets | Maurice Hardaway | PF/C | 6'10" | 238 |
| 13 | Detroit Pistons | Elijah Harper | PF | 6'8" | 235 |
| 14 | Memphis Grizzlies | DJ McCorvey | SF/PF | 6'6" | 236 |
| 15 | Sacramento Kings | Wydell Jeter | SG | 6'5" | 196 |
| 16 | Toronto Raptors | Antonio Cameron | PG/SG | 6'6" | 189 |
| 17 | Boston Celtics | Sadiq Jones | PG | 6'0" | 177 |
| 18 | Chicago Bulls | Denard Walker | PG | 6'2" | 201 |
| 19 | Denver Nuggets | Enrique Vargas | PF/C | 7'0" | 218 |
| 20 | Toronto Raptors | Chris Sampay | PF/C | 6'10" | 245 |
| 21 | Los Angeles Lakers | Jamal Harper | PF | 6'7" | 257 |
| 22 | Miami Heat | Jay Salah | C/PF | 6'11" | 235 |
| 23 | Utah Jazz | Rafeeq Tolliver | PG | 6'3" | 187 |
| 24 | Indiana Pacers | Myles Adams | PF/SF | 6'8" | 243 |
| 25 | Washington Wizards | Jovan Woodley | SF/PF | 6'10" | 200 |
| 26 | Philadelphia 76ers | Nedzad Zadrevic | SF/SG | 6'7" | 206 |
| 27 | Los Angeles Clippers | Nature Minaj | SG/SF | 6'6" | 190 |
| 28 | Brooklyn Nets | Domonique Maxwell | SG/SF | 6'6" | 215 |
| 29 | Utah Jazz | Luca Tomoni | PG/SG | 6'4" | 209 |
| 30 | Houston Rockets | DeAndre Daniels | PG/SG | 6'2" | 203 |
Free Agency
Wow there is a hell of a pool of talent once again this year. Paul, Howard, George, Curry, Westbrook, Rose. The list goes on.
Heres the movers
Russell Westbrook - Dallas 4yr/78.89mil
Dwight Howard - Brooklyn 3yr/68.34mil
Andrew Bynum - Boston 3yr 19.24mil
Gordon Harward - Milwaukee 3yr/20.44mil
Jeff Teague - Brooklyn 3yr/18.28mil
Chris Paul - San Antonio 2yr/44.58mil
Tony Parker - Indiana 1yr/3.54mil
Deron Williams - Golden State 2yr/26.8mil
Josh Smith - Chicago 3yr/21.58mil
Evan Turner - Oklahoma City 4yr/33.13mil
Kobe Bryant - Sacramento 1yr/4.62mil
Andre Iguodala - Oklahoma City 1yr/6.18mil
Dwight Howard - Brooklyn 3yr/68.34mil
Andrew Bynum - Boston 3yr 19.24mil
Gordon Harward - Milwaukee 3yr/20.44mil
Jeff Teague - Brooklyn 3yr/18.28mil
Chris Paul - San Antonio 2yr/44.58mil
Tony Parker - Indiana 1yr/3.54mil
Deron Williams - Golden State 2yr/26.8mil
Josh Smith - Chicago 3yr/21.58mil
Evan Turner - Oklahoma City 4yr/33.13mil
Kobe Bryant - Sacramento 1yr/4.62mil
Andre Iguodala - Oklahoma City 1yr/6.18mil
That's really going to shuffle some things around with this upcoming season. Which will be released rather slowly. I want to play some games, and i'm also working with Dreece & Sapp on their Draft Classes. But stay tuned things will still be updated.
Before we reveal the draw here's the end of season awards.
| 2016-2017 Season Awards | |||
| Award | Player | Pos | Team |
| Most Valuable Player | LeBron James | SF | Miami Heat |
| Rookie of the Year | Alfonzo Black | PG | Detroit Pistons |
| Sixth Man of the Year | Monta Ellis | SG | Miami Heat |
| Defensive Player of the Year | Anthony Davis | PF | New Orleans Pelicans |
| Most Improved Player | Lorenzo Giordano | PF | New Orleans Pelicans |
| Coach of the Year | Junior Hoffman | Utah Jazz | |
| All-NBA 1st Team | |||
| All-NBA 1st Team | Chris Paul | PG | Los Angeles Clippers |
| Russell Westbrook | PG | Oklahoma City Thunder | |
| LeBron James | SF | Miami Heat | |
| Kevin Durant | SF | Denver Nuggets | |
| Al Horford | C | Atlanta Hawks | |
| All-NBA 2nd Team | |||
| All-NBA 2nd Team | James Harden | SG | Houston Rockets |
| John Wall | PG | Washington Wizards | |
| Anthony Davis | PF | New Orleans Pelicans | |
| Lamarcus Aldridge | PF | Portland Trail Blazers | |
| Ray Ray Francis | C | Brooklyn Nets | |
| All-NBA 3rd Team | |||
| All-NBA 3rd Team | Stephen Curry | PG | Golden State Warriors |
| Ricky Rubio | PG | Minnesota Timberwolves | |
| Paul George | SF | Indiana Pacers | |
| Derrick Favors | PF | Utah Jazz | |
| DeMarcus Cousins | C | Sacramento Kings | |
| All-Defensive 1st Team | |||
| All-Defensive 1st Team | DeMar DeRozan | SG | Toronto Raptors |
| Avery Bradley | SG | Boston Celtics | |
| Anthony Davis | PF | New Orleans Pelicans | |
| Derrick Favors | PF | Utah Jazz | |
| Andre Drummond | C | Detroit Pistons | |
| All-Defensive 2nd Team | |||
| All-Defensive 2nd Team | Victor Oladipo | SG | Orlando Magic |
| Adam Cameron | PG | Orlando Magic | |
| Paul Millsap | PF | Atlanta Hawks | |
| Kevin Durant | SF | Denver Nuggets | |
| Al Horford | C | Atlanta Hawks | |
| All-Rookie 1st Team | |||
| All-Rookie 1st Team | Alfonzo Black | PG | Detroit Pistons |
| Dion Tinsley | SF | Toronto Raptors | |
| Darius Spencer | C | Phoenix Suns | |
| Bill Cheadle | PF | Phoenix Suns | |
| Ekpe N'diaye | C | Atlanta Hawks | |
| All-Rookie 2nd Team | |||
| All-Rookie 2nd Team | Jerrit Crosby | SG | Charlotte Bobcats |
| Che King | SG | Utah Jazz | |
| Ameen Gunn | C | Denver Nuggets | |
| Scotty Horace | PF | Chicago Bulls | |
| Kelenna Davis | SF | Golden State Warriors | |
And i'm gonna add this, i saw Darkwolf do it and found it rather interesting .
| Toronto Raptors Stats - 16-17 | |||||||||
| Player | GP | MIN | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | TPG | FPG |
| DeMar DeRozan | 82 | 3009 | 20.1 | 7.1 | 3.8 | 1.6 | 1.3 | 2.4 | 3.0 |
| Jonas Valanciunas | 58 | 1790 | 16.5 | 7.9 | 0.3 | 0.4 | 1.7 | 1.4 | 2.9 |
| Terrence Ross | 77 | 2424 | 14.0 | 3.9 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 1.9 | 2.8 |
| Kurtis Holden | 82 | 2439 | 12.8 | 6.9 | 3.8 | 0.4 | 1.1 | 1.7 | 3.2 |
| Ashley Walker | 82 | 2918 | 11.0 | 3.0 | 6.1 | 1.9 | 0.3 | 2.2 | 2.1 |
| Dion Tinsley | 82 | 1399 | 8.0 | 3.7 | 1.7 | 0.4 | 0.5 | 1.1 | 1.0 |
| Amir Johnson | 67 | 977 | 7.5 | 3.6 | 0.2 | 0.4 | 0.9 | 0.9 | 1.3 |
| Tremaine Alexander | 62 | 1047 | 6.3 | 4.1 | 0.5 | 0.3 | 1.0 | 0.8 | 0.9 |
| Pierre Jackson | 71 | 859 | 4.3 | 1.0 | 1.2 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 0.8 | 1.2 |
| Draymond Green | 47 | 536 | 3.5 | 1.9 | 0.7 | 0.5 | 0.4 | 0.7 | 0.9 |
| James Ennis | 82 | 713 | 3.4 | 1.5 | 0.4 | 0.2 | 0.2 | 0.5 | 0.9 |
| Marquis Teague | 19 | 117 | 2.4 | 0.8 | 0.9 | 0.0 | 0.1 | 0.2 | 0.6 |
| Chucky Hayes | 55 | 376 | 2.1 | 1.8 | 0.1 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 0.3 | 0.6 |
| Ilkan Karaman | 82 | 774 | 1.8 | 1.7 | 0.2 | 0.3 | 0.4 | 0.4 | 0.9 |
Now onto the playoffs
We made it as the #1 seed once again and also took out the Atlantic Division quite convincingly for a second season.
This seasons play offs look like this
Eastern Conference:
1: Toronto Raptors 56-26
8: Chicago Bulls 43-39
4: Washington Wizards 50-32
5: Miami Heat 49-33
3: Indiana Pacers 50-32
6: New York Knicks 43-39
2: Philadelphia 76ers 52-30
7: Brooklyn Nets 43-39
Western Conference:
1: Utah Jazz 60-22
8: Sacramento Kings 42-40
4: Oklahoma City Thunder 49-33
5: New Orleans Pelicans 45-37
3: Houston Rockets 53-29
6: Denver Nuggets 44-38
2: Los Angeles Clippers 53-29
7: Golden State Warriors 44-38
1: Toronto Raptors 56-26
8: Chicago Bulls 43-39
4: Washington Wizards 50-32
5: Miami Heat 49-33
3: Indiana Pacers 50-32
6: New York Knicks 43-39
2: Philadelphia 76ers 52-30
7: Brooklyn Nets 43-39
Western Conference:
1: Utah Jazz 60-22
8: Sacramento Kings 42-40
4: Oklahoma City Thunder 49-33
5: New Orleans Pelicans 45-37
3: Houston Rockets 53-29
6: Denver Nuggets 44-38
2: Los Angeles Clippers 53-29
7: Golden State Warriors 44-38
Once again we'll be looking for a strong performance from DeMar, luckily this time we enter the playoffs with a clean bill of health for the entire team.
Until next time...
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Getting another fantastic year from DeMar DeRozan who is averaging a career high 7rpg. to go with 19.4ppg on 48% shooting.
Before we get into All Star news here's our gameplay from the first half of the season
| Toronto Raptors at Minnesota Timberwolves | |||||
| Feb 3, 2017 | 1ST | 2ND | 3RD | 4TH | SCORE |
| Toronto (30-17) | 27 | 26 | 16 | 36 | 105 |
| Minnesota (22-26) | 33 | 23 | 18 | 26 | 100 |
| Toronto Raptors | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Ashley Walker | 36 | 5-10 | 2-5 | 4-4 | 1 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 16 |
| DeMar DeRozan | 40 | 6-16 | 1-2 | 2-4 | 5 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 15 |
| Terrence Ross | 25 | 3-8 | 0-0 | 4-4 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 10 |
| Kurtis Holden | 33 | 7-9 | 0-0 | 4-6 | 8 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 18 |
| Jonas Valanciunas | 31 | 6-7 | 0-0 | 2-3 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 14 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Dion Tinsley | 23 | 6-9 | 0-1 | 2-2 | 7 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 14 |
| Tremaine Alexander | 10 | 2-5 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 6 |
| Amir Johnson | 15 | 1-1 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 4 |
| Ilkan Karaman | 7 | 2-2 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 4 |
| James Ennis | 8 | 1-1 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Pierre Jackson | 12 | 1-3 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 40-71 | 3-9 | 22-27 | 39 | 25 | 8 | 5 | 15 | 105 | |
| Minnesota Timberwolves | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Ricky Rubio | 39 | 4-10 | 0-0 | 8-10 | 6 | 9 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 16 |
| Eduardo Gibson | 33 | 6-12 | 2-5 | 3-5 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 17 |
| Chase Budinger | 31 | 6-9 | 1-1 | 2-2 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 15 |
| Carlos Boozer | 30 | 4-10 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 9 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 10 |
| Nikola Pekovic | 35 | 7-16 | 0-0 | 7-8 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 21 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Jared Cunningham | 13 | 2-3 | 1-2 | 3-3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 8 |
| DeAndre Sallis | 9 | 1-3 | 0-0 | 3-4 | 5 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| Lamont Randle | 8 | 1-5 | 0-3 | 0-0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Gorgui Dieng | 8 | 1-2 | 0-0 | 0-2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Luc Mbah a Moute | 10 | 1-1 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 |
| Tristan Coles | 19 | 1-8 | 0-0 | 0-2 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Robert Vowels | 5 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 34-79 | 4-11 | 28-38 | 45 | 24 | 9 | 5 | 12 | 100 | |
Now a look at All Star Weekend
| 2016 - 17 NBA All-Star Game Rosters | |||
| Eastern Conference | Western Conference | ||
| Head Coach: | Head Coach: | ||
| Pos | Starters | Pos | Starters |
| G | Kyrie Irving - Cavaliers (4th) | G | Chris Paul - Clippers (10th) |
| G | John Wall - Wizards (4th) | G | Stephen Curry - Warriors (3rd) |
| F | LeBron James - Heat (12th) | F | Kevin Durant - Nuggets (8th) |
| F | Paul George - Pacers (5th) | F | Kevin Love - Thunder (5th) |
| C | Al Horford - Hawks (5th) | C | Dwight Howard - Rockets (11th) |
| Pos | Reserves | Pos | Reserves |
| G | Deron Williams - Nets (4th) | G | Russell Westbrook - Thunder (6th) |
| G | DeMar DeRozan - Raptors (4th) | F | Kawhi Leonard - Spurs (2nd) |
| F | Paul Millsap - Hawks (4th) | F | Anthony Davis - Pelicans (4th) |
| C | Ray Ray Francis - Nets (2nd) | C | DeMarcus Cousins - Kings (4th) |
| G | Adam Cameron - Magic (1st) | F | LeMarcus Aldridge - Trail Blazers (4th) |
| F | Greg Monroe - Pistons (2nd) | F | Derrick Favors - Jazz (2nd) |
Score:
East 97 - 98 West
MVP: Kevin Durant (DEN) 15pts 9reb 3ast 1stl 2blk
East 97 - 98 West
MVP: Kevin Durant (DEN) 15pts 9reb 3ast 1stl 2blk
Rising Stars
Team Chuck:
Starters: Dee Allen, Jerrit Crosby, Darius Spencer, Kareem Bishop, Dion Tinsley
Reserves: Nick Houston, Eduardo Gibson, Damon Richardson, Vergil Anderson, Erno Szerb
Team Shaq:
Starters: Donovan Robinson, Che King, Jaron Richmond, Ray Ray Francis, Ekpe N'diaye
Reserves: Alfonzo Black, Hector Garrison, Kelenna Davis, Bill Cheadle, Kyrie Haywood
Score: Chuck 103 - 99 Shaq
MVP: Kareem Bishop (MIA) 29pts 11reb 5ast 1blk
Slam Dunk Competition
Anthony Bennet - CLE
Victor Oladipo - ORL
Nerlens Noel - PHI
Emilio Livingston - CHI
Champion: Emilio Livingston - CHI
Anthony Bennet - CLE
Victor Oladipo - ORL
Nerlens Noel - PHI
Emilio Livingston - CHI
Champion: Emilio Livingston - CHI
3 Point Shootout
Ashley Walker - TOR
Klay Thompson - GSW
Kevin Durant - DEN
Donovan Robinson - LAL
Kyrie Irving - CLE
Paul George - IND
Champion: Kyrie Irving - CLE
Ashley Walker - TOR
Klay Thompson - GSW
Kevin Durant - DEN
Donovan Robinson - LAL
Kyrie Irving - CLE
Paul George - IND
Champion: Kyrie Irving - CLE
Trade Deadline News
76ers trade: Sergio Munoz
Mavericks trade: Jose Calderon, Ricky Ledo
76ers trade: Dorian Francis
Magic trade: Arroon Afflalo, 2018 2nd round pick
Mavericks trade: Jose Calderon, Ricky Ledo
76ers trade: Dorian Francis
Magic trade: Arroon Afflalo, 2018 2nd round pick
Hawks trade: Jared Cunningham, 2018 2nd round pick
Timberwolves trade: Kevin Martin
Timberwolves trade: Kevin Martin
A quick look around league at the current playoff picture
Eastern Conference
1: Toronto Raptors 36-20
2: Philadelphia 76ers 34-20
3: Miami Heat 35-22
4: Indiana Pacers 32-23
5: Chicago Bulls 33-24
6: Washington Wizards 33-25
7: Brooklyn Nets 29-27
8: Charlotte Bobcats 29-27
Western Conference
1: Utah Jazz 44-13
2: Houston Rockets 37-20
3: Los Angeles Clippers 36-20
4: Oklahoma City Thunder 33-23
5: Golden State Warriors 32-26
6: Denver Nuggets 30-25
7: New Orleans Pelicans 30-26
8: Minnesota Timberwolves 27-28
1: Toronto Raptors 36-20
2: Philadelphia 76ers 34-20
3: Miami Heat 35-22
4: Indiana Pacers 32-23
5: Chicago Bulls 33-24
6: Washington Wizards 33-25
7: Brooklyn Nets 29-27
8: Charlotte Bobcats 29-27
Western Conference
1: Utah Jazz 44-13
2: Houston Rockets 37-20
3: Los Angeles Clippers 36-20
4: Oklahoma City Thunder 33-23
5: Golden State Warriors 32-26
6: Denver Nuggets 30-25
7: New Orleans Pelicans 30-26
8: Minnesota Timberwolves 27-28
And lastly some awards races.
Most Valuable Player
1: LeBron James - Miami Heat
2: Derrick Favors - Utah Jazz
3: Anthony Davis - New Orleans Pelicans
4: Kevin Love - Oklahoma City Thunder
5: James Harden - Houston Rockets
1: LeBron James - Miami Heat
2: Derrick Favors - Utah Jazz
3: Anthony Davis - New Orleans Pelicans
4: Kevin Love - Oklahoma City Thunder
5: James Harden - Houston Rockets
Rookie Of The Year
1: Alfonzo Black - Detroit Pistons
2: Dion Tinsley - Toronto Raptors
3: Bill Cheadle - Phoenix Suns
4: Che King - Utah Jazz
5: Ekpe N'diaye - Atlanta Hawks
1: Alfonzo Black - Detroit Pistons
2: Dion Tinsley - Toronto Raptors
3: Bill Cheadle - Phoenix Suns
4: Che King - Utah Jazz
5: Ekpe N'diaye - Atlanta Hawks
Sixth Man Of The Year
1: Kareem Bishop - Miami Heat
2: Monta Ellis - Miami Heat
3: Jaron Richmond - Boston Celtics
4: Kyle Lowry - Brooklyn Nets
5: Tristan Thompson - Los Angeles Clippers
1: Kareem Bishop - Miami Heat
2: Monta Ellis - Miami Heat
3: Jaron Richmond - Boston Celtics
4: Kyle Lowry - Brooklyn Nets
5: Tristan Thompson - Los Angeles Clippers
Defensive Player Of The Year
1: Anthony Davis - New Orleans Pelicans
2: Andre Drummond - Detroit Pistons
3: DeAndre Jordan - Los Angeles Clippers
4: Paul Millsap - Atlanta Hawks
5: Joakim Noah - Chicago Bulls
1: Anthony Davis - New Orleans Pelicans
2: Andre Drummond - Detroit Pistons
3: DeAndre Jordan - Los Angeles Clippers
4: Paul Millsap - Atlanta Hawks
5: Joakim Noah - Chicago Bulls
Most Improved Player
1: Lorenzo Giordano - New Orleans Pelicans
2: Dashawn Blevins - San Antonio Spurs
3: John Henson - Milwaukee Bucks
4: Vince Price - Brooklyn Nets
5: Anthony Bennet - Cleveland Cavaliers
1: Lorenzo Giordano - New Orleans Pelicans
2: Dashawn Blevins - San Antonio Spurs
3: John Henson - Milwaukee Bucks
4: Vince Price - Brooklyn Nets
5: Anthony Bennet - Cleveland Cavaliers
Now we get into the exciting part of the season. I will be playing a few of these games, to get a feel for things before we head into the playoffs for a back to back title. Expecting a little too much? Theres only one way too find out.
Friday, February 7, 2014
Air Canada Center, Toronto
The ring ceremony. Oh it feels good. The first NBA Championship in Raptors history.
Question now is can we do it again. Don't expect too many changes this year. We feel way to confident with this roster, especially with the arrival of rookie star Dion Tinsley.
And DeMar DeRozan what can i say, throughout the preseason he continued to show the dominance he displayed the entire playoff run.
Just look at these pre season stats
| Pre Season Stats Stats - 16-17 | |||||||||
| Player | GP | MIN | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | TPG | FPG |
| Ashley Walker | 7 | 35.8 | 9.7 | 3.4 | 6.7 | 2.8 | 0.5 | 2.7 | |
| DeMar DeRozan | 7 | 38.2 | 22.7 | 8.2 | 4.7 | 1.7 | 3 | 1.8 | |
| Terrence Ross | 7 | 30.8 | 14.7 | 3.4 | 0.8 | 0.7 | 0.1 | 1.4 | |
| Kurtis Holden | 7 | 29.2 | 7.7 | 7.1 | 3.2 | 0.0 | 1.0 | 1.57 | |
| Jonas Valanciunas | 7 | 31.8 | 15.2 | 8.1 | 0.1 | 0.5 | 2.5 | 1.2 | |
| Amir Johnson | 7 | 12.5 | 6.0 | 2.8 | 0.0 | 0.2 | 0.5 | 0.5 | |
| Dion Tinsley | 7 | 14.1 | 9.1 | 2.5 | 1.4 | 0.2 | 0.4 | 1.1 | |
| Pierre Jackson | 7 | 12.2 | 5.5 | 0.4 | 0.4 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
| Tremaine Alexander | 7 | 10.2 | 4.7 | 2.5 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 0.2 | 0.8 | |
| James Ennis | 7 | 8.0 | 2.0 | 2.1 | 0.2 | 0.1 | 0.0 | 0.1 | |
| Ilkan Karaman | 7 | 6.0 | 1.0 | 0.7 | 0.0 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.1 | |
Now we all know DeMar isn't what the NBA would classify a "Star" but i have loved his attitude and heart even before I took over this organization. I know the sample size here is small but when your 2-guard averages more rebounds and blocks the your frontcourt while still posting 20+ppg you know there is something special going on.
DeMar tell us, "Man, after that series with the Thunder last year i just knew there was more i could still bring to this team. Anybody can score points, but it takes more than that to secure an NBA Championship. I'm just sorry we couldn't have done it with Vince (Carter) he put this organization on the basketball map. I'm just going to ensure it stays that way."
We vowed to our guys over the summer that things would stay the way they are for the forseeable future provided the guys keep bringing it the way they did last year. To prove this point contracts were offered right after opening day.
DeMar DeRozan 5yrs/60.04mil (5th yr Team Option)
Kurtis Holden 5yr/46.05mil
Ashley Walker 5yr/40.22mil
And that is exactly why we had that cap set aside. With two 1st round picks coming in the 2017 draft. Its about time we set our scouts on their way.
First off, player retirements.
We said goodbye to Matt Barnes, retiring at the age of 36 after 14 years. And 2 great ones with us.
Other Retirements:
Jason Richardson SG - Brooklyn Nets
Kevin Garnett PF - Denver Nuggets (Hall Of Fame)
Luis Scola PF - Indiana Pacers
Paul Pierce SF - San Antonio Spurs
Kevin Garnett PF - Denver Nuggets (Hall Of Fame)
Luis Scola PF - Indiana Pacers
Paul Pierce SF - San Antonio Spurs
Now having an NBA ring on our fingers, a few of the guys who were unsure of their contract situations announced their interest in resigning immediately.
Ashley Walker PG
Kurtis Holden PF
(Both of these guys still with two year team options)
DeMar DeRozan SG
Pierre Jackson PG
Chuck Hayes C
The two free agents we brought in for injury coverage through our playoff run, Ramon Sessions and Tyler Hansbrough said their goodbyes and departed for FA.
While Coach Casey and the team went to attend their White House visit, the draft lottery took place.
1: New York Knicks
2: Boston Celtics
3: Dallas Mavericks
4: Phoenix Suns
5: Denver Nuggets
6: Orlando Magic
7: Los Angeles Lakers
8: Milwaukee Bucks
9: Atlanta Hawks
10: Brooklyn Nets
11: Detroit Pistons
12: Memphis Grizzlies
13: Minnesota Timberwolves
14: Washington Wizards
2: Boston Celtics
3: Dallas Mavericks
4: Phoenix Suns
5: Denver Nuggets
6: Orlando Magic
7: Los Angeles Lakers
8: Milwaukee Bucks
9: Atlanta Hawks
10: Brooklyn Nets
11: Detroit Pistons
12: Memphis Grizzlies
13: Minnesota Timberwolves
14: Washington Wizards
We also had every single contract expire on our Staff. Coach Casey was offered a 1 year extension. Although Assistant Johnny Davis was let go in favor of Donnie Geiger simply because he was more focused on developing our young talent. We also return with a brand new 3 man prospect scouting team and would like to welcome Trainer Kenneth Owens to the organization.
Next on our agenda dealing with contracts.
Team options were accepted on our 3rd year players Kurtis Holden & Ashley Walker. And our star DeMar elected to accept his player option for $9.5mil with a brand new contract already in the works.
After a fantastic showing from our former D League man Pierre Jackson in that final game with Oklahoma City and a fantastic 2nd pro year we brought him back for 4yrs/17.24mil, and Chucky was more than happy to bring back that vet experience for a further year @ 525k.
And now for the 2016 Draft
We enter with the 30th pick for both rounds.
Not for long though, for anyone still reading this we knew Kyle Lowry was going. He'd had enough, we'd had enough it was time to part ways.
Toronto Trades: Kyle Lowry, Mike Muscala, 2016 2nd round (30th)
Brooklyn Trades: 2016 1st (10th), Marquis Teague
And then James Dolan (Knicks Owner) calls me up and offers their 2017 1st rounder. For our 2016 1st (30th) and our 2017 2nd rounder.
I like to keep this authentic and lets be honest nobody else gives out first rounders like Jimmy does. So i couldn't help myself fleecing him, like the Raptors have done so many times before.
(On the side, serious 2K logic. The Nets offer me back my 2017 1st round pick, and my last pick of the 2016 draft for Draymond Green?? What is up with the Big Apple right now.)
I declined simply for the fact that 3 first round picks with a team almost guaranteed another playoff berth is ridiculous.
Heres the full 1st round recap.
| 2016 NBA Draft (DC3) | |||||
| Pick | Team | Player | Pos | Ht | Wt |
| 1 | New York Knicks | Kyrie Haywood | C | 6'11" | 240 |
| 2 | Boston Celtics | Taijuan Conway | PF | 6'9" | 233 |
| 3 | Phoenix Suns | Darius Spencer | C | 7'0" | 248 |
| 4 | Phoenix Suns | Bill Cheadle | PF/C | 7'0" | 228 |
| 5 | Denver Nuggets | Detroit Johnson | PG/SG | 6'3" | 195 |
| 6 | Orlando Magic | Jabbar Wilson | PF | 6'8" | 232 |
| 7 | Los Angeles Lakers | Jonah Bolden | PF | 6'9" | 220 |
| 8 | Milwaukee Bucks | Dee Allen | PG | 6'3" | 190 |
| 9 | Atlanta Hawks | Ekpe N'Diaye | C/PF | 7'0" | 229 |
| 10 | Toronto Raptors | Dion Tinsley | SF | 6'7" | 233 |
| 11 | Detroit Pistons | Alfonzo Black | PG | 6'2" | 192 |
| 12 | Phoenix Suns | Vernon Maxiell | SF | 6'7" | 237 |
| 13 | Minnesota Timberwolves | DeAndre Sallis | PF/SF | 6'8" | 264 |
| 14 | Washington Wizards | Laquille Outlaw | SF | 6'7" | 215 |
| 15 | Charlotte Bobcats | Kelenna Davis | SF | 6'8" | 209 |
| 16 | Washington Wizards | RJ Rideaux | PG | 6'2" | 185 |
| 17 | Cleveland Cavaliers | Fabijian Novoselec | PF/SF | 6'10 | 213 |
| 18 | Chicago Bulls | Scotty Horace | PF | 6'9" | 239 |
| 19 | Sacramento Kings | Rayshaun Smith | PG/SG | 6'3" | 200 |
| 20 | Los Angeles Lakers | Vladimir Kratsov | SF | 6'9 | 208 |
| 21 | Charlotte Bobcats | Jerrit Crosby | SG | 6'5" | 185 |
| 22 | Utah Jazz | Che King | SG/SF | 6'7" | 180 |
| 23 | Philadelphia 76ers | Trey Tripplett | SG/SF | 6'6" | 205 |
| 24 | Houston Rockets | Antonio Ramirez | SG/SF | 6'7" | 219 |
| 25 | Portland Trail Blazers | Xavier Rhodes | SG | 6'4" | 205 |
| 26 | Atlanta Hawks | Dee Hemingway | SG/PG | 6'4" | 198 |
| 27 | New Orleans Pelicans | Sian Strickland | SG/PG | 6'3" | 195 |
| 28 | Indiana Pacers | Matyas Csontas | SG/SF | 6'9" | 194 |
| 29 | Oklahoma City Thunder | Durand West | SF | 6'6" | 229 |
| 30 | New York Knicks | Saran Kolkman | C | 7'2" | 280 |
As we entered Free Agency, it became apparent we could have had any player in the list. But all we needed was somebody to back up DeMar. I saw a 34 year old D Wade and thought about it til he still wanted $13mil for one season.
Onto the next one
Austin Rivers or Tony Wroten.
This was an easy decision based on the realism factor. Rivers hasnt lived upto expectations and i honestly don't think New Orleans will be particularly worried about matching any offers, but it does also give me that extra option for the point, should anything go wrong.
For starters we offered a deal of 2yr/9mil, to test the waters.
And what do you know the Pelicans matched...
James Ennis a 6'7" SG, 23 years old. Can throw it down with fury, shoots the long ball.
For 5.5mil over 2 years. We'll take that.
Then to fill that extra forward spot that we lost in the Kyle Lowry trade, i went on an international hunt.
We found Ilkan Karaman a 6'9" PF, solid post defender with a confident outside shot. 4yrs/4.6mil
Leaves us plenty of cap to bring back those important pieces of our future.
FA Highlights league wide
Brandon Jennings - LAL 4yr/46.98mil
Eric Gordon - MIL 3yr/21.85mil
O.J. Mayo - PHX 3yr/20.29mil
Kevin Durant - DEN 4yr/85.87mil
Monta Ellis - MIA 3yr/38.34mil
Nicolas Batum - DAL 4yr/31.20mil
Al Jefferson - IND 3yr/36.58mil
Kevin Love - OKC 3yr/56.24mil
Eric Gordon - MIL 3yr/21.85mil
O.J. Mayo - PHX 3yr/20.29mil
Kevin Durant - DEN 4yr/85.87mil
Monta Ellis - MIA 3yr/38.34mil
Nicolas Batum - DAL 4yr/31.20mil
Al Jefferson - IND 3yr/36.58mil
Kevin Love - OKC 3yr/56.24mil
Training Camps
Our 3 years are up (i had this move planned all along)
Dion Tinsley - Untapped Potential
Simple move, new star, the cooldown period is over lets maximise the return on Kyle Lowry
Tremaine Alexander - Big Man Defense
From what i saw of Tremaine last season i got a bit of a Tyson Chandler vibe. Excels on the pick and roll. Sure as hell holds his own downlow. So why not make that his speciality right now while we still have the chance.
James Ennis - Athleticism
Like i said in the Playoff round up, this team is damn fast. Ennis already has the length and the skills to join that party, so lets ensure he is the right kind of athlete to join the Wings we have here in Toronto.
Team - Free Throw Shooting
Like always i personally find this to be one of the most invaluable training camps available. We achieved our aim last year and took the #1 in the league from the Stripe, so let's do it again. With such a busy Free Agency the league is going to be entirely different. This is us putting our best foot forward.
Thats me for the night. It's now 4am over here in New Zealand. More updates sometime during the weekend. We've got a target on our backs now.
Toronto Raptors 4 - 2 Miami Heat
This lead us to our very first NBA Finals since i took control, facing off against the Oklahoma City Thunder. And goddamn i forgot what it was like to TRY, and i emphasize try to run the point against Russell Westbrook.
Lowry came back halfway through the Miami series to go back down in Game 1 versus the Thunder, so did Amir Johnson. Also with a Broken Jaw. And DeMar DeRozan played with a bruised sternum the entire playoffs. So this left us shorthanded for sure, which led me to worry going up against a full strength Thunder team.
Game 1
Toronto Raptors 97 - 102 Oklahoma City Thunder
Game 2
Toronto Raptors 87 - 80 Oklahoma City Thunder
Game 3
Oklahoma City Thunder 101 - 98 Toronto Raptors
Game 4
Oklahoma City Thunder 97 - 102 Toronto Raptors
Game 6
With a chance to close the Thunder out, and this was by far the hardest fought game, the first four just went back and forth. Like i said earlier, Westbrook was the bain of our exsitence this time out. I seriously feel like 2k didn't want us to have any chance at winning this game, Tremaine Alexander went down early with a severe ankle sprain leaving me to play small ball when Jonas went to the bench. But I have to give it to Draymond Green who came up with so priceless plays to help keep us close. Then DeMar went down with 30 seconds to go in the first half with a sprained ankle. But came back out in the second and played through the pain to score 20 points. Not usually somebody you'd rely on from deep but we have to give him
credit. OKC continually went under screens and doubled Valanciunas in the post leaving DeRozan open time and time again.
Toronto Raptors 97 - 102 Oklahoma City Thunder
Game 2
Toronto Raptors 87 - 80 Oklahoma City Thunder
Game 3
Oklahoma City Thunder 101 - 98 Toronto Raptors
Game 4
Oklahoma City Thunder 97 - 102 Toronto Raptors
Game 6
With a chance to close the Thunder out, and this was by far the hardest fought game, the first four just went back and forth. Like i said earlier, Westbrook was the bain of our exsitence this time out. I seriously feel like 2k didn't want us to have any chance at winning this game, Tremaine Alexander went down early with a severe ankle sprain leaving me to play small ball when Jonas went to the bench. But I have to give it to Draymond Green who came up with so priceless plays to help keep us close. Then DeMar went down with 30 seconds to go in the first half with a sprained ankle. But came back out in the second and played through the pain to score 20 points. Not usually somebody you'd rely on from deep but we have to give him
credit. OKC continually went under screens and doubled Valanciunas in the post leaving DeRozan open time and time again.
| Toronto Raptors at Oklahoma City Thunder | |||||
| Jan 1, | 1ST | 2ND | 3RD | 4TH | SCORE |
| Toronto () | 32 | 22 | 34 | 34 | 122 |
| Oklahoma City () | 28 | 25 | 32 | 29 | 114 |
| Toronto Raptors | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Ashley Walker | 36 | 4-16 | 1-6 | 0-0 | 6 | 14 | 0 | 0 | 8 | 9 |
| DeMar DeRozan | 40 | 12-20 | 6-9 | 7-9 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 37 |
| Terrence Ross | 39 | 9-13 | 0-1 | 2-2 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 20 |
| Kurtis Holden | 38 | 4-7 | 0-0 | 5-6 | 11 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 13 |
| Jonas Valanciunas | 36 | 7-15 | 0-0 | 6-7 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 20 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Pierre Jackson | 8 | 5-8 | 2-3 | 0-0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 12 |
| Ramon Sessions | 12 | 2-4 | 1-2 | 0-0 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 5 |
| Matt Barnes | 7 | 1-2 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 |
| Tremaine Alexander | 8 | 1-3 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Draymond Green | 11 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Tyler Hansbrough | 10 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Mike Muscala (DNP) | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| TEAM TOTALS | 45-89 | 10-21 | 22-28 | 43 | 33 | 7 | 6 | 11 | 122 | |
| Oklahoma City Thunder | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Russell Westbrook | 35 | 15-26 | 0-2 | 4-4 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 0 | 6 | 34 |
| Jeremy Lamb | 36 | 2-6 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 1 | 5 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Kevin Durant | 42 | 9-20 | 1-4 | 10-10 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 29 |
| Serge Ibaka | 41 | 7-11 | 0-0 | 4-6 | 13 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 18 |
| Steven Adams | 33 | 5-10 | 0-0 | 1-4 | 8 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 11 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Reggie Jackson | 18 | 4-8 | 0-2 | 0-0 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 8 |
| Thabo Sefolosha | 7 | 1-3 | 0-1 | 1-2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| Mathias Storjohann | 5 | 1-2 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Andre Roberson | 8 | 1-2 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Perry Jones | 8 | 1-2 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Bryce Joseph | 5 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 1-2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Christian Chambers | 9 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 46-90 | 1-11 | 21-28 | 43 | 18 | 10 | 4 | 11 | 114 | |
DeMar DeRozan was awarded finals MVP in game, but in the menu's it showed Ramon Sessions, so i don't have DeMar's stats.
Thats right we did it!!! Feels so damn good. After the first two games i realized that the Thunder had a roster full of guards. So i attacked the rim over and over, wreaking havoc on pick and rolls, and then the baseline penetration with DeRozan and Ross. And let me just say DUNK!
The other thing i realized as early as the Charlotte series is that this team thrives in transistion. We're so fast. On the break it was either DeRozan or Ross throwing it down time and time again.
So what is next you ask? As is the rest of the league, even with a #1 seed, i don't think anybody expected us to come out on top. It would seem we have a point to prove this coming season.
I'm feeling pretty hyped right now. So the offseason update may be up tonight.
| San Antonio Spurs at Toronto Raptors | |||||
| Nov 15, 2015 | 1ST | 2ND | 3RD | 4TH | SCORE |
| San Antonio (6-3) | 25 | 16 | 14 | 27 | |
| Toronto (8-1) | 22 | 16 | 20 | 14 | |
| San Antonio Spurs | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Patrick Mills | 34 | 3-5 | 1-2 | 2-2 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 9 |
| Danny Green | 36 | 6-13 | 2-3 | 5-8 | 5 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 19 |
| Paul Pierce | 32 | 3-8 | 1-4 | 3-4 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 10 |
| Tim Duncan | 36 | 5-9 | 0-0 | 4-4 | 16 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 14 |
| Tiago Splitter | 33 | 2-7 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 13 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 6 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Marco Bellinelli | 11 | 4-8 | 2-5 | 0-0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 10 |
| Chris Kaman | 9 | 2-4 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| Cory Joseph | 11 | 2-5 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 4 |
| Damon Warren | 5 | 1-5 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Nando de Colo | 11 | 1-3 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 |
| Mike Johnson | 9 | 0-1 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Greg Oden | 19 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 26/68 | 6/18 | 18/22 | 47 | 14 | 3 | 6 | 12 | ||
| Toronto Raptors | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Kyle Lowry | 31 | 2-10 | 0-3 | 0-0 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 |
| DeMar DeRozan | 39 | 4-14 | 1-2 | 8-8 | 9 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 17 |
| Terrence Ross | 32 | 3-7 | 0-2 | 3-4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Mike Muscala | 32 | 1-3 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Jonas Valanciunas | 33 | 7-18 | 0-2 | 5-5 | 19 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 19 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Ashley Walker | 11 | 2-8 | 2-5 | 0-0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| Treamine Alexander | 12 | 2-2 | 0-0 | 1-2 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| Draymond Green | 15 | 2-3 | 0-0 | 0-1 | 4 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Pierre Jackson | 15 | 1-8 | 0-2 | 2-2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Matt Barnes | 13 | 1-1 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Chucky Hayes | 7 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0-2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Mychel Thompson | 7 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 25/75 | 3/16 | 19/24 | 41 | 10 | 8 | 4 | 7 | ||
All Star 2016
East:
Starters - Derrick Rose (4th), John Wall (3rd), LeBron James (11th), Paul George (4th), Al Horford (4th)
Reserves - Michael Carter-Williams (2nd), DeMar DeRozan (3rd), Evan Turner (2nd), Paul Millsap (3rd), Spencer Hawes (2nd), Greg Monroe (1st), Ray Ray Francis (1st)
West:
Starters - Chris Paul (9th), James Harden (4th), Kevin Durant (7th), Kevin Love (4th), Carmelo Anthony (8th)
Reserves - Russell Westbrook (5th), Eric Bledsoe (1st), Kawhi Leonard (1st), Anthony Davis (3rd), DeMarcus Cousins (3rd), Derrick Favors (1st)
Score: East 92 - 101 West
MVP: Carmelo Anthony 15pts 8reb 1ast 2stl 0blk 0tos
Rising Stars
Team Chuck
Starters - Adam Cameron, Niko Vugrenic, Jaron Richmond, Raheem Thompson, Aure Edwards
Reserves - Jase Lavasai, Shawn Porter, Royce White, Emilio Livingston, Tremaine Alexander
Team Shaq
Starters - Donovan Robinson, Hector Garrison, Ray Ray Francis, Kareem Bishop, Dwight Clayton
Reserves - Tevin Harrison, Javier Stevens, Darius Player, Kurtis Holden, Leon Strickland
Score: Shaq 93 - 94 Chuck
MVP: Adam Cameron 26pts 6reb 5ast 2stl 1blk 2tos
Slam Dunk
Contestants:
Maurice Harkless
Archie Goodwin
Dion Waiters
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
Champion: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
3pt Shootout
Contestants:
James Harden
Danny Green
Kevin Love
Stephen Curry
Joe Johnson
LeBron James
Champion: Danny Green
Contestants:
Maurice Harkless
Archie Goodwin
Dion Waiters
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
Champion: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
3pt Shootout
Contestants:
James Harden
Danny Green
Kevin Love
Stephen Curry
Joe Johnson
LeBron James
Champion: Danny Green
Trade Deadline Update
Before we look at any moves made this season, lets take a quick look around the league
Eastern Conference:
1: Toronto Raptors 39-15
2: Indiana Pacers 37-15
3: Miami Heat 33-21
4: Philadelphia 76ers 29-23
5: New York Knicks 27-24
6: Chicago Bulls 28-25
7: Boston Celtics 25-27
8: Washington Wizards 24-28
1: Toronto Raptors 39-15
2: Indiana Pacers 37-15
3: Miami Heat 33-21
4: Philadelphia 76ers 29-23
5: New York Knicks 27-24
6: Chicago Bulls 28-25
7: Boston Celtics 25-27
8: Washington Wizards 24-28
Western Conference:
1: New Orleans Pelicans 35-17
2: San Antonio Spurs 34-19
3: Oklahoma City Thunder 33-19
4: Sacramento Kings 32-21
5: Portland Trail Blazers 32-21
6: Minnesota Timberwolves 32-23
7: Golden State Warriors 30-23
8: Houston Rockets 29-23
1: New Orleans Pelicans 35-17
2: San Antonio Spurs 34-19
3: Oklahoma City Thunder 33-19
4: Sacramento Kings 32-21
5: Portland Trail Blazers 32-21
6: Minnesota Timberwolves 32-23
7: Golden State Warriors 30-23
8: Houston Rockets 29-23
And a quick look at the award races.
MVP:
1: Kevin Love (MIN)
2: LeBron James (MIA)
3: Paul George (IND)
4: Anthony Davis (NOP)
5: Kevin Durant (OKC)
1: Kevin Love (MIN)
2: LeBron James (MIA)
3: Paul George (IND)
4: Anthony Davis (NOP)
5: Kevin Durant (OKC)
ROTY:
1: Ray Ray Francis (BKN)
2: Donovan Robinson (LAL)
3: Kareem Bishop (MIA)
4: Hector Garrison (PHX)
5: Javier Stevens (DEN)
1: Ray Ray Francis (BKN)
2: Donovan Robinson (LAL)
3: Kareem Bishop (MIA)
4: Hector Garrison (PHX)
5: Javier Stevens (DEN)
Trade Deadline News
Honestly right here I extensively looked at trading Kyle Lowry. He'd done some great things for us, just not this season. Currently we're sitting #1 in the East. 1 game ahead of Indiana and 6 ahead of Miami. And we all know this is where the season starts to get serious. But for a guy set to make another $14mil over the next two years. He was getting very JR Smith on me. Not quite as drastic, but a guy who's now 10 years in the league and supposed to be leading a team only shooting 28% i was stuck.
The decision was stuck between another shot at the playoffs, although i'm currently looking at the 8th seed Wizards in the first round... (Anyone who's been following knows the Wizards have become a bit of a playoff nemesis.) The other side of this decision was another FA littered with Stars. Kevin Durant, LeBron James, Kevin Love, Dwight Howard, James Harden, Paul George. And some big names at the 1 spot. Lillard, Deron Williams, Tony Parker.
The Cavaliers and the Pistons were both willing to throw current first rounders at me. With a great look at the lottery, sitting 10th and 14th respectively.
But ultimately i didn't want to break the chemistry. It would be suicide right now sitting so high in the conference. We're finally escaping no man's land.
But Kyle knows well and truly his days in the Red & Black are definitely numbered..
There was only 1 trade made this deadline, and a rather minor one.
Clippers trade: J.J. Redick, '16 1st round.
Wizards trade: Trevor Ariza, Dwight Buycks
The next game will be a potential playoff preview
| Matchup Preview *|* March 31, 2016 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Toronto Raptors (51-22, 21-14 Away) | Washington Wizards (35-38, 19-16 Home) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Next update will be the End Of Year Review and a look at the Post Season.
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Some early season news, Terrence Ross got his wish and earnt himself a long term 5yr/28.39mil deal. Terrence has made it clear over the last few months he was determined to make Toronto his home and so far has responded with a career season averaging 17ppg on 52% shooting.
Kurtis Holden, our second year big man came in on opening day to start for an injured Amir Johnson and he meant business. Posting averages of.... including a massive 14pts 17reb 2stl 2blk against the Lakers before going down with a Broken Jaw later in the game.
Still managing to take both games in a back to back against Milwaukee and then a road game in Memphis. We return to the Air Canada Centre to host last years Champions in our first gameplay of the season
| Matchup Preview *|* November 13, 2015 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| San Antonio Spurs (5-3, 2-1 Away) | Toronto Raptors (8-0, 5-0 Home) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Next update will be at the Trade Deadline. Also looking around the league and providing an All Star Update.
Onto the second round we matched up with the Washington Wizards again. And walked into a slaughter. From the first game we were outmatched. DeMar was solid all series scoring 25+ in each game while filling in the stat sheet in all other areas. Our ultimate demise in this 4-2 loss was Kyle Lowry, who got hounded by John Wall game in, game out.
The silver lining to this loss was that the Wizards did go on to the Finals after taking the Pacers 4-1 but then went on to lose to the Spurs in 6. Making the Spurs on a run for a 3peat this year.
The round of the playoffs had to go the gruelling 7 game series between Indiana & Miami. Anybody who knows basketball knows that both these teams will give it all on the court, and they did just that. In a back and forth affair which ended with the Pacers taking game 7 by 1 point in a double OT matchup. (It was thrilling to watch, even for a video game.)
Shockingly the Thunder went down in 6 versus the Utah Jazz, in the first round even. A massive upset for OKC once again making a playoff run without Russell Westbrook.
Notable retirements from the league.
Dirk Nowitzki (76ers) who went on to the Hall Of Fame
Vince Carter (TOR)
Elton Brand (TOR)
Manu Ginobli (SA)
During the off season, we accepted our team option on Terrence Ross who was solid throughout the playoffs and has been looking for an extension since the All Star break last season. Tyler Hansbrough went on to test FA, which was no big deal as we weren't looking to extend his contract, simply because Kurtis Holden out played him all year long and we knew we'd be heading to the draft in search of young big men. Amir Johnson after an absolutey massive playoff run (avering 18ppg and 10reb) announced his desire to return to Toronto with a 4yr/14.84mil deal.
To which the organization said. "Amir is a vital piece to this Toronto team, both on the floor and in the locker room. Our guys look up to him as a team leader and he gives 110% every game. Ultimately everybody knows Amir bleeds Toronto and it was an easy decision to bring him back."
Which brings us to the 2014 Draft.
We entered with the 18th pick in the first round and the 27th in the second due to the trade with the Wizards this time last year.
On the night the usual draft antics ensued, the Cavs offered us their 1st (What a suprise) for DeMar & Kyle Lowry, to which we declined.
| NBA Draft - Round 1 Recap | |||||
| Pick | Team | Player | Pos | Ht | Wt |
| 1 | Cleveland Cavaliers | Damon Richardson | SF | 6'7" | 224 |
| 2 | Los Angeles Lakers | Donovan Robinson | PG/SG | 6'1" | 172 |
| 3 | Orlando Magic | Ramon Rivers | PG/SG | 6'1" | 196 |
| 4 | Dallas Mavericks | Tevin Harrison | PG/SG | 6'6" | 219 |
| 5 | Charlotte Bobcats | Thierry Silvestre | PG | 6'0" | 191 |
| 6 | Brooklyn Nets | Ray Ray Francis | C/PF | 7'0" | 241 |
| 7 | Phoenix Suns | Hector Garrison | SG/SF | 6'6" | 228 |
| 8 | Miami Heat (via POR) | Kareem Bishop | PF/C | 6'10" | 245 |
| 9 | Minnesota Timberwolves | Eduardo Gibson | SG | 6'5" | 199 |
| 10 | Milwaukee Bucks | Vergil Anderson | PF | 6'11" | 217 |
| 11 | Denver Nuggets | Javier Stevens | SG/SF | 6'5" | 193 |
| 12 | Philadelphia 76ers | Gregory Livingston | PF/C | 6'10" | 246 |
| 13 | Sacramento Kings | Raheem Thompson | PF/C | 6'8 | 259 |
| 14 | Boston Celtics | Jaron Richmond | SF | 6'8" | 217 |
| 15 | Milwaukee Bucks | Dwight Clayton | SF | 6'8" | 228 |
| 16 | Los Angeles Clippers | Allan Jeffries | SF/PG | 6'7" | 223 |
| 17 | Utah Jazz | Kenneth Carter | PF/SF | 6'7" | 254 |
| 18 | Toronto Raptors | Tremaine Alexander | C | 7'0" | 231 |
| 19 | Chicago Bulls | Anthony Drew | SF/SG | 6'6" | 234 |
| 20 | Philadelphia 76ers | Sergio Munoz | SG/SF | 6'6" | 195 |
| 21 | New Orleans Pelicans | Tyronn Anthony | SG/SF | 6'8" | 206 |
| 22 | Miami Heat | Nick Houston | PG/SG | 6'5" | 178 |
| 23 | Memphis Grizzles | Joseph Givens | SF/PG | 6'7" | 229 |
| 24 | New York Knicks | Alonzo Scott | PF | 6'9" | 231 |
| 25 | Golden State Warriors | Elliot McKnight | SG/SF | 6'7" | 208 |
| 26 | Orlando Magic | Armando Boyd | C | 7'1" | 254 |
| 27 | Indiania Pacers | Antwan Harper | PG/SG | 6'3" | 201 |
| 28 | Oklahoma City Thunder | Christian Chambers | C/PF | 6'10" | 243 |
| 29 | Houston Rockets | Reggie Russell | PF/C | 6'10" | 229 |
| 30 | San Antonio Spurs | Mike Johnson | SG/SF | 6'8 | 220 |
Free Agency
With a huge pool of talent, here's the higlights. Only the guys that have moved teams.
Tony Parker - DAL 1yr/9.78
Rajon Rondo - NYK 4yr/74.48
Rudy Gay - CHI 3yr/21.41
Carmelo Anthony - SAC 3yr/62.37
Kevin Garnett - DEN 1yr/2.49
Toronto's pick ups
Just small role guys for now. Got plenty of cap but we are also facing some expiring deals in the next 2 years. Guys like DeMar & Terrence Ross.
Draymond Green SF 3yr/7.52
I really like this guys hustle, especially after watching him in the 2013 playoffs. So much energy, he's just everywhere.
Mychel Thompson SG 1yr/1.72 (Team option on 2nd)
Yes he's Klay's brother. Half the reason i picked him up. If shooting runs in the Thompson family the way it does in the Curry family then this is an absolute steal. We lacked a real shooting threat in our bench all throughout last season especially come play off time. So Mychel has been brought in specifically as a shooter. If things don't work out then we decline our option on him next year and go about our business.
Mike Muscala PF 4yr/8.20
Another scoring option essentially. I was tossing up between him and Grant Jerret i wanted a young big, that i could turn to as a 3rd or 4th option on the bench, Mike won as he had more on the defensive end also, and for the same price it was an easy choice.
Traning Camps
(Using a house rule, Camps are only for 1st and 2nd year players)
Ashley Walker - Athleticism
After a poor showing from Kyle Lowry during the post season and a solid one from Walker based on his minutes, we're starting to look at whether Ashley can take over the point. While he has great fundamentals, he lacks the foot speed to get out on the break with guys like DeRozan and Ross.
Tremaine Alexander - Big Man Offense
The playoff series with Washington showed a serious lack of brute offense down low for us. So this was a predetermined move in strengthening the post offense when guys like Valanciunas & Holden are on the bench.
Team - Free Throw Shooting
We ranked Top 5 in this category last year. And that %age proved vital in some close games. But now with our roster all capable of shooting at least 70% from the stripe i see no reason why we can't take this category out.
I am now going to go watch the Raptors game so sit tight for a pre season update sometime later today.
Unfortunately the game vs Boston froze so i ended up simming after i got the game going again.
I can tell you that we ended up 43-39 finishing 2nd in the Atlantic behind the Knicks who posted a 52-30 record.
End Of Year Awards
MVP
Kevin Durant
ROTY
Adam Cameron
6th Man
Thaddeus Young??? (Not sure what Philli are doing)
Defensive
Anthony Davis
Most Improved
Dejuan Blair (Amir Johnson was second)
Coach
Kevin McHale
And our own Kurtis Holden got All Rookie 1st
Playoff Picture
Western Conference
1: Houston Rockets
8: Los Angeles Clippers
4: Memphis Grizzlies
5: New Orleans Pelicans
3: Golden State Warriors
4: San Antonio Spurs
2: Oklahoma City Thunder
7: Utah Jazz
Eastern Conference
1: Indiana Pacers
8: Atlanta Hawks
4: Miami Heat
5: Detroit Pistons
3: Washington Wizards
6: Chicago Bulls
2: New York Knicks
7: Toronto Raptors
We brought Elton Brand in off FA to replace the still injured Tyler Hansbrough, whos offensive boards will be sorely missed.
So wish us luck as we dive into the post season for a second straight year.
The next update won't be until the new season begins so probably a few days. Considering how many i posted today not a bad idea.
Before i get into the league news heres the box score from the Minnesota game. And man we got damn lucky!
| Minnesota Timberwolves at Toronto Raptors | |||||
| Feb 5, 2015 | 1ST | 2ND | 3RD | 4TH | SCORE |
| Minnesota (21-32) | 21 | 18 | 27 | 27 | |
| Toronto (27-26) | 22 | 31 | 23 | 23 | |
| Minnesota Timberwolves | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Ricky Rubio | 40 | 5-15 | 0-1 | 4-4 | 4 | 7 | 2 | 0 | 5 | 14 |
| Kevin Martin | 29 | 6-19 | 0-3 | 5-7 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 17 |
| Corey Brewer | 36 | 7-10 | 2-3 | 0-0 | 6 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 16 |
| Luc Mbah a Moute | 39 | 5-7 | 0-0 | 0-2 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 10 |
| Gorgui Dieng | 40 | 5-7 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 9 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 10 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Shabazz Muhammad | 14 | 3-7 | 0-1 | 4-5 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 10 |
| J.J. Barea | 11 | 3-8 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 6 |
| Ronny Turiaf | 8 | 1-1 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Tristan Coles | 10 | 2-2 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 4 |
| Alexey Shved | 8 | 1-3 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Chase Budinger | 11 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 38-80 | 2/9 | 15/20 | 42 | 20 | 7 | 6 | 13 | ||
| Toronto Raptors | ||||||||||
| STARTERS | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Kyle Lowry | 29 | 4-11 | 1-3 | 1-1 | 2 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 10 |
| DeMar DeRozan | 26 | 9-16 | 0-1 | 1-1 | 5 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 19 |
| Terrence Ross | 29 | 2-12 | 1-6 | 6-7 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 11 |
| Amir Johnson | 29 | 4-10 | 0-0 | 6-6 | 11 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 14 |
| Jonas Valanciunas | 29 | 1-7 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 5 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
| BENCH | MIN | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PTS |
| Pierre Jackson | 17 | 6-10 | 1-2 | 0-0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 13 |
| Vince Carter | 17 | 3-6 | 0-1 | 3-3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 9 |
| Tyler Hansbrough | 15 | 3-5 | 0-0 | 1-2 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 7 |
| Matt Barnes | 15 | 3-7 | 0-2 | 0-0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 6 |
| Kurtis Holden | 12 | 1-2 | 0-0 | 1-2 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| Ashley Walker | 16 | 1-2 | 1-2 | 0-0 | 2 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| Chucky Hayes | 12 | 0-2 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 37/90 | 4/17 | 21/24 | 49 | 21 | 8 | 7 | 9 | ||
Around The League
Playoff Picture
Eastern Conference
1: Indiana Pacers 36-17
2: Washington Wizards 35-19
3: Detroit Pistons 33-21
4: New York Knicks 33-21
5: Chicago Bulls 30-25
6: Boston Celtics 30-25
7: Miami Heat 28-24
8: Toronto Raptors 27-27
Western Conference
1: Houston Rockets 43-13
2: Oklahoma City Thunder 40-15
3: Memphis Grizzlies 36-19
4: Golden State Warriors 36-20
5: New Orleans Pelicans 31-22
6: San Antonio Spurs 29-25
7: Los Angeles Clippers 28-26
8: Utah Jazz 27-28
League Leaders (PPG)
1: LeBron James (MIA) 27.6
2: Carmelo Anthony (NY) 26.8
3: Kobe Bryant (LAL) 25.9
4: Kevin Love (MIN) 25.8
5: Kevin Durant (OKC) 25.7
Award Races
MVP
1: Kevin Durant (OKC)
2: James Harden (HOU)
3: Dwight Howard (HOU)
4: LeBron James (MIA)
5: John Wall (WSH)
ROTY
1: Adam Cameron (ORL)
2: Aure Edwards (DAL)
3: Darius Player (CLE)
4: Kurtis Holden (TOR)
5: Jase Lavasai (CHA)
Pretty quiet on the All Star front for us. DeMar got selected as reserve again for his second consecutive year.
Our trade deadline got crushed by Tyler Hansbrough going down with a torn hand ligament. Followed by Ashley Walker a few days later with a sprained wrist. Its been an unlucky season so far on the injury front. But the guys are holding tough and have managed to maintain a .500 record so far.
Obviously our goal for the rest of the season will be to push that record higher and get ourselves safely into the playoffs, whilst hopefully maintaining a healthy roster.
Chucky Hayes will be returning next season with a 1yr/1.31mil deal.
And an agreement was reached with Jonas on a 5yr/49.98mil deal.
Next match will be
| Matchup Preview *|* March 11, 2015 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Toronto Raptors (32-33, 15-16 Away) | Boston Celtics (32-32, 15-18 Home) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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So that post game will be covered in the next update. As well as the end of year awards. And a preview of the playoffs.
With the Raptors posting a record of 24-24 after a terrible start to the season due to some unlucky injuries to star men DeRozan and Valanciunas. We bounced back with a healthy squad in January to go 10-1 before DeRozan and Ross went down. To then drop the last 4 games of the month.
In other team news Vince Carter has announced this will be his final season in the league. At 38 years of age.
Vince says "I want to thank the Raptors fans and organization and the city of Toronto for a wonderful career i'm proud to have called it home once again and I will be walking away with fond memories."
Despite previous feelings towards VC, fans are already murmuring of retiring Vince's number 15. Which Amir Johnson gave up hearing of Vince's return at the start of the season.
Chucky Hayes has expressed a desire to extend his contract for a further year to take on a smaller role and allow rookies such as Steven Jenkins to grown into the active roster.
Meanwhile Jonas Valanciunas who still has 2 years left on his rookie roster proclaimed "Toronto is where i want to be. If you're amiable to it, let's work on a contract extension."
With the Lithuanian big man averaging 13ppg and 9rpg this season. The organisation has begun to undertake negotiations with JV's agent to secure him as a foundation piece for the Franchise.
With injury disrupting the 2 and 3 spots on the roster for most of the season so far and the impressive rookie season of Kurtis Holden, there has been word spreading of the potential dealing of Tyler Hansbrough who in recent weeks has found himself expendable.
Which leads us to our Game 1 preview
| Matchup Preview *|* February 4, 2015 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Minnesota Timberwolves (21-27, 7-17 Away) | Toronto Raptors (24-24, 13-14 Home) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Stay tuned for the results of this match and a full update around the league as soon as we hit the All Star Break
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