Alexander: Looking For Rasheed Wallace

[duncan228]

Looking for Rasheed Wallace (http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/spursworld/2009/06/looking-for-rasheed-wallace.html)
By Joe Alexander

There were reports on local radio and the Internet on Friday that veteran NBA power forward/center Rasheed Wallace is in San Antonio.

Wallace, who made $13,680,000 for the 2008-09 season (according to HoopsHype.com), becomes a free agent on July 1.

The Spurs are in a position to add a big man to their roster after giving up forward/centers Fabricio Oberto and Kurt Thomas in the trade for Richard Jefferson.

Wallace averaged 12.0 points and 7.4 rebounds this season. He averaged 6.5 points and 6.3 rebounds in the playoffs.

The 6-foot-11 Wallace averages 15.0 points and 6.9 rebounds for his career in the regular season. He averaged 14.6 points and 6.7 rebounds in 153 playoff games.

Wallace is a four-time All-Star and was a member of the Pistons' 2004 NBA championship team.

He appears to be a player in demand by some of the powers in the East.

The "Celtics Blog" says Boston is looking at Wallace.
www.celticsblog.com/2009/6/26/926140/time-to-focus-on-free-agents

From the Boston Herald:
http://news.bostonherald.com/sports/columnists/view/20090626magic_swings_for_the_fences_in_acquiring_v ince_carter

An NBA Fanhouse report says the Eastern Conference champion Orlando Magic will make a run at Wallace.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2009/06/26/magic-to-pursue-rasheed-wallace-brandon-bass/

From the Boston Globe:
www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/articles/2009/06/26/activity_all_around_celtics_in_east/

Rasheed Wallace's NBA bio page:
www.nba.com/playerfile/rasheed_wallace/index.html?nav=page

[phyzik]

Spurstalk..... where Articles happen.

[EricB]

Wow so Orlando who, won't go over the luxury tax is now gonna go after Wallace. Yeah ok.

[EricB]

Spurstalk..... where Articles happen.

Local radio had this before Spurstalk my man.

[Chillen]

I think it's up to Sheed, there will be plenty of offers for him, but I think San Antonio needs him more than any other team he could play for. If the Spurs can sign Sheed, that makes them a legit threat to win the 2010 NBA title imo.

[phyzik]

Local radio had this before Spurstalk my man.

refering to the guy who posted about his friend seeing him at the airport. If it was on the radio before that I didnt hear it.

[picnroll]

Apparently Aldridge and Bucher are both saying it's between the Spurs and Magic

[Hooks]

He better sign with us...I hope he does, after all he did say he wanted to play here. The addition on RJ will surely encourage him to at least think about coming here, we need a big badly. He'll also get a bunch of playing time here, he also gets the chance to work with TD.

[DPG21920]

Well since Sheed is not in favor of getting sawed in half, I think the Spurs have a shot.

[itzsoweezee]

Wallace averaged 6.5 points and 6.3 rebounds in the playoffs.



no thanks.

[phyzik]

no thanks.

Take into account that he wanted to leave there during the trade deadline last season. He doesnt want to be there anymore. I honestly think a new change of scenery, especially to a true contender, would revitalize him.

[CGD]

If its between Spurs and Magic as reported, we likely win no matter where Sheed goes. If Orlando pays him, it tells you a lot about their plans for Gortat...

[Kori Ellis]

Even if he's in town, the media should be quiet about it so the Spurs don't investigated for tampering. Come on.. help out the hometeam :)

[timvp]

Even if he's in town, the media should be quiet about it so the Spurs don't investigated for tampering. Come on.. help out the hometeam :)

Exactly ...................

[NewJerSpur]

I originally wasn't that interested in signing Sheed, but given the market for Bigs (especially ones within a decent price range) I could be cool with this. As long as dude is still focused and driven enough to get another ring he could be a nice stop-gap to our transitioning PF/C situation and he's more mobile than KT who was our second best Big defender lasty season. Wonder if anything will ever materialize with Ian?

[alchemist]

honestly this is a tough one, Rasheed's character is so raw that I see him bumping heads with Pop. On the other hand time is ticking on Tim's basketball career and not doing everything possible to get him :lobt2: #5 would be crazy.

Whatever Pop and the staff/team decides to do I'm cool with. :flag:

[Kori Ellis]

honestly this is a tough one, Rasheed's character is so raw that I see him bumping heads with Pop. On the other hand time is ticking on Tim's basketball career and not doing everything possible to get him :lobt2: #5 would be crazy.

Whatever Pop and the staff/team decides to do I'm cool with. :flag:

Rasheed is one of Pop's favorite players in the league and he's wanted him since Pop's days back in Golden State.

[ezau]

If its between Spurs and Magic as reported, we likely win no matter where Sheed goes. If Orlando pays him, it tells you a lot about their plans for Gortat...

Good point

[Russ]

In the Spurs-Portland WCF in '09 I thought he was the scariest opposing player the Spurs ever faced. His turnaround jumper was simply unstoppable.

But that was long ago and the Spurs need a center who can run, rebound and defend. He's also well past his prime.

I just don't get the enthusiasm among Spurs fans for Rasheed at this point.

[024]

pop definitely fawns over bigs that can shoot the 3. i again want the spurs to look for a more permanent solution rather than another band aid in wallace or any other ancient big. wallace may have one good season left but he's obviously not going to sign for a one year contract. spurs are just repeating a cycle of having old, washed up bigs that they always need to replace.

[lefty]

Do it Pop, Do it !!!!!

[phyzik]

Even if he's in town, the media should be quiet about it so the Spurs don't investigated for tampering. Come on.. help out the hometeam :)


Exactly ...................

Ehh.... Im not too worried about it. Its all just rumors so far. Even if he is here, I doubt the Spurs are doing anything stupid. Let them investigate.

[Kori Ellis]

Ehh.... Im not too worried about it. Its all just rumors so far. Even if he is here, I doubt the Spurs are doing anything stupid. Let them investigate.

It's just dumb by the media to say it before the free agency period starts when the Spurs can't even talk to him yet. He's probably not even here.

[phyzik]

It's just dumb by the media to say it before the free agency period starts when the Spurs can't even talk to him yet. He's probably not even here.

Agreed.

[DPG21920]

It's just dumb by the media to say it before the free agency period starts when the Spurs can't even talk to him yet. He's probably not even here.

Reverse Jinx?

[EricB]

In the Spurs-Portland WCF in '09 I thought he was the scariest opposing player the Spurs ever faced. His turnaround jumper was simply unstoppable.

But that was long ago and the Spurs need a center who can run, rebound and defend. He's also well past his prime.

I just don't get the enthusiasm among Spurs fans for Rasheed at this point.


Name a center available better?

Gortat?

PFFT please.

[Obstructed_View]

The only thing the Spurs should say to 'sheed is this: If you come here, you're going to start. If you come here, you're getting as much money as we can give you. If you come here, we're gonna win 75 games and sweep the playoffs. If you don't commit to us right now, we're committing the money to Gortat.

[phyzik]

Name a center available better?

Gortat?

PFFT please.

+1

who the fuck else is out there?

Rasheed is proven, people are putting to much into his last season with Detroit. The guy OBVIOUSLY didnt want to be there anymore. He mailed it in for the playoffs knowing they where NOT going anywhere.

Put him on a contender again and he will pick his game up, obviously not as good as 2005 Sheed but it will be good enough. Sheed is still a threat.

[EricB]

:lol

Rasheed while at times can be a nutbag is not an idiot. He knows what the Spurs offer, he knows what the Magic offer.

Again, I'd like to ask the Magic this question, you didn't want to go into luxury tax territory with Hedo and Gortat, you trade for Carter who makes more, and then your gonna give Rasheed the MLE!?!?

Conflicting BS..

[EricB]

+1

who the fuck else is out there?

Rasheed is proven, people are putting to much into his last season with Detroit. The guy OBVIOUSLY didnt want to be there anymore. He mailed it in for the playoffs knowing they where NOT going anywhere.

Put him on a contender again and he will pick his game up, obviously not as good as 2005 Sheed but it will be good enough. Sheed is still a threat.


While it slightly bothers me that he mailed in the rest of the season after Billups left theres something that showed me he still has it.

That game here in SA early in the year.

He got a technical, he got pissed then all of a sudden he balled out. He rebounded, blocked some shots, he guarded Duncan hard and well as always, and knocked down shot after shot after shot.

He's also clutch as F.

[phyzik]

While it slightly bothers me that he mailed in the rest of the season after Billups left theres something that showed me he still has it.

That game here in SA early in the year.

He got a technical, he got pissed then all of a sudden he balled out. He rebounded, blocked some shots, he guarded Duncan hard and well as always, and knocked down shot after shot after shot.

He's also clutch as F.

exactly. I think it would be hard to "mail it in" with Timmy, Tony, Manu and Jefferson on your team so Im not worried about that. The ONLY thing Im kind of concerned about is when he flips out and gets a tech, but with Pop and Timmy keeping him in check, I dont see it as an issue at all.

[EricB]

Some people actually like San Antonio. I doubt they do it any more because of recent years, but Joey Crawford and his wife used to come to San Antonio all the time.

Thats a valid enoguh excuse right?


Alright, wich resteraunt pissed him off enough to make him hate SA then...

[Chillen]

Playing with Duncan will get him rolling again. Imagine a big 5 of Duncan, Parker, Ginobili, Jefferson, Wallace. Just nasty, on paper that looks unbeatable assuming it happens. If they can manage to sign McDyess along with Sheed, that would be awesome. Still this is just a daydream, but it sounds like a good fit.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Rasheed is one of Pop's favorite players in the league and he's wanted him since Pop's days back in Golden State.

And correct me if I'm wrong, but at one point 'Sheed also said he thought Pop would be a great coach to play for...

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Playing with Duncan will get him rolling again. Imagine a big 5 of Duncan, Parker, Ginobili, Jefferson, Wallace. Just nasty, on paper that looks unbeatable assuming it happens. If they can manage to sign McDyess along with Sheed, that would be awesome. Still this is just a daydream, but it sounds like a good fit.

We just drafted a young version of 'Dice in Blair. Plus, we aren't getting them both for the LLE and MLE.

It'll probably be:

'Sheed
McClinton
Gist
Blair

call it an off-season.

[spurspokesman]

Take into account that he wanted to leave there during the trade deadline last season. He doesnt want to be there anymore. I honestly think a new change of scenery, especially to a true contender, would revitalize him.

YOU BETTER BELIEVE It.

[phyzik]

Bottom line, Sheed makes to much damn sense to pass on if we can entice him to come.

[EricB]

We just drafted a young version of 'Dice in Blair. Plus, we aren't getting them both for the LLE and MLE.

It'll probably be:

'Sheed
McClinton
Gist
Blair

call it an off-season.

and sign Hairston back.

Then call it an off season.

[EricB]

And correct me if I'm wrong, but at one point 'Sheed also said he thought Pop would be a great coach to play for...

Whos the one coach Sheed played for and played the best for?

Larry Brown.

Whos in a semi same mold? Pop.

Rasheed responds well to coaches that garner respect.

pop and Larry Brown garner respect.

[spurspokesman]

The only thing the Spurs should say to 'sheed is this: If you come here, you're going to start. If you come here, you're getting as much money as we can give you. If you come here, we're gonna win 75 games and sweep the playoffs. If you don't commit to us right now, we're committing the money to Gortat.

Yeah nothing wrong with A little hard ball.:king

[Obstructed_View]

Yeah nothing wrong with A little hard ball.:king

It's more a matter of practicality. We give you everything we possibly can, and you show us the courtesy of making a quick decision so we don't end up with our dicks in the wind when all the other choices have disappeared.

[EricB]

I'm gonna guess Rasheed is plan A

then a trade for Camby is plan B.

[bigdog]

Well, if it's really between San Antonio and Orlando then it should be a quick decision anyways.

[phyzik]

Im kind of leaning towards we hear something by Wednesday evening if the rumors are true that he is here but I wouldnt be suprised if its dragged out until the 8th.

[MaNu4Tres]

I hate to jinx this possibility. But give me a reason why Sheed is in San Antonio? I have a good reason. Perhaps Sheed has already made up his mind and is ahead of the game of free agency. Looking at property perhaps? The sooner he moves in the sooner he can start getting acclimated and start working out with his new teammates.

And now I knock on wood.

Sheed would be the perfect fit. IMO and hopefully he comes to San Antonio motivated more than ever.

[MaNu4Tres]

I'm gonna guess Rasheed is plan A

then a trade for Camby is plan B.

For once we see eye to eye on something.

[Spursmania]

If Sheed really is here, you bet something is up. Timmy probably invited him over to to talk about the team and convince Sheed they can get another ring before Sheed rides off into the sunset. This doesn't violate NBA rules since they are friends and certainly able to visit with eachother. It should be an easy choice between SA and Magic.

Or maybe they are just playing video games together and reminiscing about their good old college rivalry.:lol

[mazerrackham]

While I do agree Sheed is the best fit for the Spurs in what we need and what he can provide, I really don't want him to come here because he doesn't fit the culture of the team. I hate rooting for headcase punks :bang

[EricB]

I don't think he is so bad off the court. On the court he is nuts. Which I like about him.

Pop needs to be careful what he says to him.

But what do you guys think about this deal. 1 year 3 million with a player option and a no trade clause.

If they got him that cheap I'd be ecstatic.

[MaNu4Tres]

I don't think he is so bad off the court. On the court he is nuts. Which I like about him.

Pop needs to be careful what he says to him.

But what do you guys think about this deal. 1 year 3 million with a player option and a no trade clause.

Orlando and San Antonio both competing for his services next year will end up in both teams offering the full MLE.

If for some crazy reason a 1 year deal worth 3 million was the final price. I'd be more than shocked.

[phyzik]

If they got him that cheap I'd be ecstatic.

no shit, we will be lucky if we get him for the entire MLE.

[Solid D]

Even if he's in town, the media should be quiet about it so the Spurs don't investigated for tampering. Come on.. help out the hometeam :)

So, Joe Alexander is sort of like San Antonio's Steve Bartman.

[dbreiden83080]

honestly this is a tough one, Rasheed's character is so raw that I see him bumping heads with Pop. On the other hand time is ticking on Tim's basketball career and not doing everything possible to get him :lobt2: #5 would be crazy.

Whatever Pop and the staff/team decides to do I'm cool with. :flag:

Wallace is not what he was in say 2005 but he is still a very good player and a big upgrade. He needs motivation, playing for a title contender again with strong internal leadership should do the trick. Sign him..

[Blackjack]

Look, you can't jump to too many conclusions on 'Sheed from last year. The Pistons had gone stale, the players knew they weren't going anywhere, and their floor-general got dealt. Hardly the type of environment for a bunch of veterans to find individual or team success.

This was a proud championship-or-bust core who knew their window had shut. So, while people are quick to say 'Sheed mailed it in, I'm not sure that's completely fair. How can you blame one individual when the front office made no mistake of their intentions.

This teams' time had passed, and the front office was ready to move on.

'Sheed is as talented as just about any 4-man of his generation, but he doesn't own a dominant players' mentality.

He's a complimentary player.

So, if the ship is going down and the team has little to no hope, it's really not in 'Sheed's makeup to keep a team afloat.

Not in his prime and certainly not at this stage.

'Sheed's always needed the right kind of group/team around him to get the best out of him, and the Spurs seemingly fit the bill.

The Spurs offer a starting spot and an MLE that will most likely be the best he can do, given the economy and teams left with cap room, and he brings a skill set that's proven success in this system.

He's a bigger, more talented, Horry.

There's nothing out there that fits the Spurs' needs better in this win-now mode.

He can take significant pressure off Tim defensively, he can open the lane for Tim and the Spurs' all of a sudden stockpile of slashers, and he brings the savvy and experience to get it done when all the chips are down.

The time to get more athletic at the center will come, maybe as soon as next year, but now's the time to win.

Players like Mahinmi, Gist, and Blair in the front court are more than enough capable of giving this team enough energy and athleticism for the time being.

[Ditty]

wow i don't want orlando getting this guy

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

The deal for 'Sheed will be for however long he wants to keep playing. My guess is it would be through 2012 when Tim's deal is up. Makes the most sense...

[manu the best]

who are the pf or c free agents available for this year .?.

[Ditty]

would that be great if wlalace took the LLE for one year and we use the MLE on ron artest or go after ariza

[TDMVPDPOY]

Exactly ...................

sheed is causing the tampering, spurs cant do shit besides wait....

sheed playing mind games, just wait till pop pulls a reverse physchology on him to sign on that dotted line for LLE.

If the magic or any other team does sign sheed,

do you guys think spurs will offer Gortat a MLE long term offer like what we gave RASHO a few years back? or just signing someone to a small length contract? since we are out of the 2010 sweepstakes.....

[NewJerSpur]

would that be great if wlalace took the LLE for one year and we use the MLE on ron artest or go after ariza

Still holding out hope for Ariza I'm gathering?

[EricB]

would that be great if wlalace took the LLE for one year and we use the MLE on ron artest or go after ariza
Why would Artest take that little of money?

[MaNu4Tres]

San Antonio could this be a possibility?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yV8dPEELruE&feature=related

[HarlemHeat37]

There's ONE issue with Rasheed Wallace..motivation..that's all it comes down too..I don't buy the bullshit that he's "done" and "too old to contribute"..you give him a chance to win a title, you allow him to play for a coach he respects and a legendary friend of his in Duncan, and this guy will be motivated..

He would be coming to a team that limits the playing time of their stars during the regular season..the scary thing is that the Spurs are building up depth right now, and if this team stays healthy, there should be plenty of blow-outs and opportunities to rest for our older players..

This could DIRECTLY be a matchup against the Lakers..'Sheed pulls out one of their 7-footers, and I can't imagine Gasol being happy with being guarded by him for a physical 7-game series..

A motivated Rasheed Wallace, and the team staying healthy= best team in the NBA, at least IMO..

Acquiring Wallace would be the last piece of the puzzle from a talent perspective..the rest of the off-season can simply come down to picking the talent to fill-out the team, and allowing more time for the guys to build chemistry and get to know each other on and off the court..

[Ditty]

Why would Artest take that little of money?

2 years 10 million with a great chance to win a championship and the cheap living in san antonio sounds good to me plus dosent have to go to far from houston :toast

[Ditty]

Of course it would be great but lets not get greedy. In the past week we got an all star for nothing and the second best college player last year at 37. If we get Sheed and not Ariza or Artest or anyone else for that matter I think we will be more than fine.

yah but is till think we might need one more defender possibly like a matt barnes :bking or some defensive young orintated player?

[SenorSpur]

If, as Sheed says, that he's all about winning, and if he and Tim are really as close as some have reported, then it should be a done deal.

[Ditty]

Well Barns would be good for the LLE, but I think Gist is going to try and be a solid outside defender. And if we get Bowen back I think he will play a little more consistantly.

yah i dunno how quick gist is but i hope he can keep up with kobe and lebron with his big figure good shot blocking or there going to bring hairston as there main defender who knows

[Ditty]

btw i always thought rasheed was the only guy in the league that can slow down tim duncan one on one

[50 cent]

Even if he's in town, the media should be quiet about it so the Spurs don't investigated for tampering. Come on.. help out the hometeam :)

There is nothing wrong with him coming down to visit Tim, smoke a few bowls, and play video games until Wednesday is there?

:rollin

[daslicer]

I have always loved Sheed and the intensity he brings to the game. Yes he's out of control and gets T's but he is also clutch, a great defensive player, and has a high basketball IQ which goes along with what the spurs need. The way I look at it its kind of similar to what the bulls did in the summer of '95 when they traded for a 36 year old volataille out of control maniac PF who nobody could control. That PF was Dennis Rodman and he still didn't change that much in Chicago under then toning down his act and not going MIA on the team due to having a lot of respect for Pippen,MJ,Phill. I think the same would apply for Sheed that yeah he will still get his T's but it will be less and plus he won't bail out on TD,Pop, and co because they are proven champions. Sheed respects winners and thats why he played well for Larry Brown versus other coaches he has had in Flip Saunders, Curry, etc.

[Darkwaters]

He better sign with us...I hope he does, after all he did say he wanted to play here. The addition on RJ will surely encourage him to at least think about coming here, we need a big badly. He'll also get a bunch of playing time here, he also gets the chance to work with TD.


And in Orlando he gets the chance to work with Dwight Howard. I think it's a moot point.

[Summers]

He's probably not even here.

"This is not the big you're looking for. Move along."



There is nothing wrong with him coming down to visit Tim, smoke a few bowls, and play video games until Wednesday is there?

:rollin


But seriously, (I don't know the tampering/FA rules) could Sheed visit Tim and it not be tampering as long as he doesn't talk to the coaches or FO?

[Leetonidas]

There is nothing wrong with him coming down to visit Tim, smoke a few bowls, and play video games until Wednesday is there?

:rollin

My thoughts exactly. :lol

[Summers]

And in Orlando he gets the chance to work with Dwight Howard. I think it's a moot point.

Apples and oranges. As Phila said, they've been playing against each other since college and seem to really like each other.

[NewJerSpur]

Orlando's future contention is in question IMO with a questionable trade that I believe the Nets got the better end of possibly short and definitely longterm and Hedo's possible exit (which makes their PG situation that much more vulnerable). Might be something Gortat is taking into consideration already.

[Blackjack]

I wonder if Hedo ends up in Detroit...

[Spursmania]

I wonder if Hedo ends up in Detroit...

My bet is he will.

[Spurs9]

Honestly if its between Orlando and Spurs I think he would chose Spurs, Pop has always liked him. If he does go to Orlando then we could try to get Gortat which I would be happy with too.

[buttsR4rebounding]

Well, if it's really between San Antonio and Orlando then it should be a quick decision anyways.

Tim can probably help him with that choice...:ihit

[kace]

Even if he's in town, the media should be quiet about it so the Spurs don't investigated for tampering. Come on.. help out the hometeam :)

that's maybe journalism, who knows...

[Streakyshooter08]

Could somebody set me straight on the cap situation of Orlando? The have Turkoglu and Gortat as FA's, right? I thought they only have the MLE and LLE. If they would really re-sign Turkoglu and add Wallace with the MLE, that would put them really high into the lux tax... I don't know if they woud really do that.

If they do this, than it might increase the chance to sign Gortat.

[spurspokesman]

There's ONE issue with Rasheed Wallace..motivation..that's all it comes down too..I don't buy the bullshit that he's "done" and "too old to contribute"..you give him a chance to win a title, you allow him to play for a coach he respects and a legendary friend of his in Duncan, and this guy will be motivated..

He would be coming to a team that limits the playing time of their stars during the regular season..the scary thing is that the Spurs are building up depth right now, and if this team stays healthy, there should be plenty of blow-outs and opportunities to rest for our older players..

This could DIRECTLY be a matchup against the Lakers..'Sheed pulls out one of their 7-footers, and I can't imagine Gasol being happy with being guarded by him for a physical 7-game series..

A motivated Rasheed Wallace, and the team staying healthy= best team in the NBA, at least IMO..

Acquiring Wallace would be the last piece of the puzzle from a talent perspective..the rest of the off-season can simply come down to picking the talent to fill-out the team, and allowing more time for the guys to build chemistry and get to know each other on and off the court..
Right on the money heat. Who wants to play hard when they know they are positioned to lose

[Spurs Brazil]

Magic to Pursue Rasheed Wallace, Brandon Bass
Posted Jun 26, 2009 7:10PM By Tim Povtak (RSS feed)

Filed Under: Magic, Mavericks, Pistons, Playoffs, NBA Rumors, NBA Transactions, FanHouse Exclusive
Print
Text Size A A A
Now that they have landed All-Star Vince Carter and all but said goodbye to Hedo Turkoglu, the Orlando Magic will try to rebuild their supporting cast by targeting a pair of vastly different free-agent frontcourt players.

After losing to the Lakers and their big front line in the NBA Finals, the Magic are expected to make offers next week in free agency to both veteran Rasheed Wallace of Detroit and young Brandon Bass of Dallas, according to two NBA sources.

Wallace, 34, is expected to be pursued by both the Magic and the Boston Celtics, who are competing with the Cleveland Cavaliers for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Wallace has played 14 seasons in the NBA, earning a reputation as an often enigmatic, but unselfish player with championship experience.

Wallace still could remain in Detroit, but he has expressed a desire to finish his career with a legitimate contender in the East. He would help either Boston or Orlando counter Cleveland's addition of Shaquille O'Neal.

Bass, 24, came into the league with New Orleans as a second-round draft pick. Although still unheralded as a backup last season to Dirk Nowitzki, he is considered a good rebounder who would provide Dwight Howard with more help around the basket.

In getting Carter on Thursday from New Jersey, the Magic traded center/forward Tony Battie, along with guards Rafer Alston and Courtney Lee. They also are expecting to lose center/forward Marcin Gortat to free agency, necessitating several roster moves this summer.

Turkoglu wasn't part of the deal for Carter, but his fate in Orlando became clear when the Magic traded for Carter. Turkoglu earlier this week notified the league that he was opting out of his contract to become a free agent.

He is expected to be seriously pursued by Toronto, Portland and Sacramento. He is seeking a five-year deal worth an estimated $10 million annually, which is more than the Magic were willing to pay.

http://nba.fanhouse.com/2009/06/26/magic-to-pursue-rasheed-wallace-brandon-bass/

[spursbird]

I prefer McDyess to Wallace. Dyess fits the Spurs well, and more important, he has a high fg% as a centre. Wallace shooted only 41% as a PF last season, WTF?

[spursbird]

Wallace still could remain in Detroit, but he has expressed a desire to finish his career with a legitimate contender in the East. He would help either Boston or Orlando counter Cleveland's addition of Shaquille O'Neal.

So does the Spurs still have opportunities?

[ShoogarBear]

The only thing the Spurs should say to 'sheed is this: If you come here, you're going to start. If you come here, you're getting as much money as we can give you. If you come here, we're gonna win 75 games and sweep the playoffs. If you don't commit to us right now, we're committing the money to Gortat.

Uh . . . if Sheed starts . . . which one does Pop say is playing center and thus pisses off? :lol

[DBMethos]

Fuck Orlando. (even though I like them)
Come to SA, 'Sheed.

[wildbill2u]

I know this sounds like raining on everyone's parade, but here goes a voice of sanity:

1.What gives anyone the idea that Sheed is willing to take the MLE (and a 6-7 million dollar salary hit) just to play with the Spurs? I bet he still thinks of himself as a big time All Star player and if he came here he'd expect to be the guy who's the final piece of the puzzle--and worth big time money.

2. What's he worth to someone else? Don't you think somebody might offer him around what he is getting now, $13,000,000? If not, do you think his skills have eroded so much that he's only worth about half of what he'd been getting on the open market?

3. Is a POSSIBLE championship worth taking a huge cut in your last contract? Just sayin' that the MLE idea is a fantasy.

4. If the MLE won't get Sheed, then could the Spurs go higher? I know Holt supposedly wrote Pop and the FO a blank check, but with the acquistion of Jefferson and his $13,000,000 tab, I think he'll be leery of going even further into the luxury tax to give Sheed more than the MLE.

Let's be reasonable. The Spurs aren't going to stock up with 5 All-stars starters and a couple more high dollar players like McDyess for the bench.

[Kori Ellis]

It goes back to their ACC days. UNC vs Wake was basically Duncan vs Sheed.

Weren't they only in college at the same time for one season?

[Kori Ellis]

that's maybe journalism, who knows...

Journalism would be if they actually saw him in San Antonio :lol not reporting a rumor that someone's cousin's sister-in-law's brother's uncle's girlfriend thought she saw him.

Anyway, my comment was a joke about helping out the hometeam.

[Kori Ellis]

Weren't they only in college at the same time for one season?

My bad, two seasons.

Anyway, I just remembered Rasheed being destroyed by Duncan in 1995 in the Wake-UNC game, then Rasheed getting dominated by Corliss Williamson in the Final Four.

[CGD]

I know this sounds like raining on everyone's parade, but here goes a voice of sanity:

2. What's he worth to someone else? Don't you think somebody might offer him around what he is getting now, $13,000,000? If not, do you think his skills have eroded so much that he's only worth about half of what he'd been getting on the open market?


Let's be reasonable. The Spurs aren't going to stock up with 5 All-stars starters and a couple more high dollar players like McDyess for the bench.

Attaining Rasheed is very "reasonable". Do you honestly think he can command around $13M as you suggest? The "open market" is being stingy this year (with the exception of the Spurs). It is definitely a Buyers Market right now. The sobering reality for Sheed is that no one is going to pay him what he initially demanded, and if he wants to play he's the one that'll have to be reasonable.

Bottom line: Rasheed no doubt knows that the Spurs are only willing to offer him the MLE. So in fact if he is here (don't buy it), or when he comes visit SA on July 1 I'm convinced it'll be to sign.

[wut]

Magic to Pursue Rasheed Wallace, Brandon Bass
Posted Jun 26, 2009 7:10PM By Tim Povtak (RSS feed)

Filed Under: Magic, Mavericks, Pistons, Playoffs, NBA Rumors, NBA Transactions, FanHouse Exclusive
.
.
.

Wallace, 34, is expected to be pursued by both the Magic and the Boston Celtics, who are competing with the Cleveland Cavaliers for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Wallace has played 14 seasons in the NBA, earning a reputation as an often enigmatic, but unselfish player with championship experience.

Wallace still could remain in Detroit, but he has expressed a desire to finish his career with a legitimate contender in the East. He would help either Boston or Orlando counter Cleveland's addition of Shaquille O'Neal.

.
.
.

http://nba.fanhouse.com/2009/06/26/magic-to-pursue-rasheed-wallace-brandon-bass/

I'm wondering if that's the exact translation of his desires...or if he just didn't say 'legitimate contender'.

[MarHill]

I must admit I'm still ambivalent about Rasheed coming to the Spurs. I know they are a lot of supporters in this forum for him coming to SA. I can see why.

In his prime, I always thought Sheed could have been one of the best PF's in the league. However, he has been an enigma. And the fact...that he has gotten out-of-control with his behavior in Detroit's last two or three playoff series.....just worries me.

I know that if he comes to the Spurs....Pop and TD will be able to mitigate his act somewhat. But he's 35 and set in his ways.

I prefer the Spurs go after Gortat instead. He's 6'11, a good defender, and can block shots. He played good defense in ECF vs the Cavs and block a few of Lebron's shots as he drove to the lane. Also, he was decent against Bynum in the Finals.

I believe that is someone that Spurs need more than Rasheed. I know I'm in the minority with this.....but getting a big that can protect the rim is more important to me than getting a talented engima who is a little beyond his prime.

Hmmmm....maybe my buddy SenorSpur could convince me why the Spurs should take Sheed!! :lol

:flag:

[Mavs<Spurs]

I think Sheed will come here. I think given his age, the economy, he will accept the full MLE since that is probably all that Orlando would offer him and he would rather play for Pop and with Timmy.

I agree that he will be motivated playing for a real championship contender. I think that this will make it really tough for LA to beat us. And that interior defense will be beastly.

If we get Sheed, sign Blair, McClinton, then we are the team to beat.

:hat

[Mavs<Spurs]

Wednesday can't get here soon enough.

Championship !

:lobt2::lobt2::lobt2::lobt2::lobt2:

[Spursmania]

Come on Down Sheeed!

[kace]

I must admit I'm still ambivalent about Rasheed coming to the Spurs. I know they are a lot of supporters in this forum for him coming to SA. I can see why.

In his prime, I always thought Sheed could have been one of the best PF's in the league. However, he has been an enigma. And the fact...that he has gotten out-of-control with his behavior in Detroit's last two or three playoff series.....just worries me.

I know that if he comes to the Spurs....Pop and TD will be able to mitigate his act somewhat. But he's 35 and set in his ways.



I think Sheed will come here. I think given his age, the economy, he will accept the full MLE since that is probably all that Orlando would offer him and he would rather play for Pop and with Timmy.



well, i really feel like both of you. Thinking that the MLE should be enough to get him (who would give him more ?) and being a little bit hesitant about what to think about him.

The thing is that before the RJ trade and the draft, i would think the Sheed risk would be a good one. We needed something to be made and the gamble of seeing a good Sheed was a solution before the end of the Tim window.

Now with RJ and hopefully Blair (why not even Mc Clinton, who knows), it seems we're back in the mix with the legitimate contenders (we were not so far of them IMO). A solid big, even if not a genius talented one, could be enough to have a great team. The gamble that Sheed clearly is could be less needed. I don't really know.

[MarHill]

well, i really feel like both of you. Thinking that the MLE should be enough to get him (who would give him more ?) and being a little bit hesitant about what to think about him.

The thing is that before the RJ trade and the draft, i would think the Sheed risk would be a good one. We needed something to be made and the gamble of seeing a good Sheed was a solution before the end of the Tim window.

Now with RJ and hopefully Blair (why not even Mc Clinton, who knows), it seems we're back in the mix with the legitimate contenders (we were not so far of them IMO). A solid big, even if not a genius talented one, could be enough to have a great team. The gamble that Sheed clearly is could be less needed. I don't really know.

Kace,

I feel the same way.

I like Sheed...when he has played like he wants to. His skills are great...but he has a huge downside. And he's an enigma!! A lot of Spurs fans are overlooking that.

I just feel the Spurs need more a defender and shot-blocker in the post with the MLE than Sheed. I maybe wrong...but I just worry about someone who is an enigma.

I felt the same way about Lamar Odom last season. He proved me wrong...he was terrific in playoffs against Denver and Orlando.

Maybe Sheed can do the same thing...if he becomes a Spur!

[Galileo]

Playing with Duncan will get him rolling again. Imagine a big 5 of Duncan, Parker, Ginobili, Jefferson, Wallace. Just nasty, on paper that looks unbeatable assuming it happens. If they can manage to sign McDyess along with Sheed, that would be awesome. Still this is just a daydream, but it sounds like a good fit.

70 wins, baby!

[bigbendbruisebrother]

Rasheed is old and has blown his cool in big games too many times to count. No thanks. Spend it on Goatrat or whatever the hell his name is.

[Agloco]

I originally wasn't that interested in signing Sheed, but given the market for Bigs (especially ones within a decent price range) I could be cool with this. As long as dude is still focused and driven enough to get another ring he could be a nice stop-gap to our transitioning PF/C situation and he's more mobile than KT who was our second best Big defender lasty season. Wonder if anything will ever materialize with Ian?

He's under contract for next year.

The only bigs we have are Timmy, Matty and Ian(ny).

[Agloco]

Kace,

I feel the same way.

I like Sheed...when he has played like he wants to. His skills are great...but he has a huge downside. And he's an enigma!! A lot of Spurs fans are overlooking that.

I just feel the Spurs need more a defender and shot-blocker in the post with the MLE than Sheed. I maybe wrong...but I just worry about someone who is an enigma.

I felt the same way about Lamar Odom last season. He proved me wrong...he was terrific in playoffs against Denver and Orlando.

Maybe Sheed can do the same thing...if he becomes a Spur!

I guess what we're not getting from you is an alternative to Sheed. If not Sheed, then who out there fits your description (besides Gortat)? We need a vet, not another unknown (Ian, DeJuan, random dude with 1-2 years, etc)

[Man In Black]

In his prime, I always thought Sheed could have been one of the best PF's in the league. However, he has been an enigma. And the fact...that he has gotten out-of-control with his behavior in Detroit's last two or three playoff series.....just worries me.

Enigma only in attitude, not is his game. There really isn't an argument to how well he has played. If you're talking about his last 3 playoff experiences, he has 2 ECF's and 1 first round exit.

If you take the attitude out of the equation, you have here a game changing player on BOTH sides of the ball, who understands a TEAM philosophy, grew up in and played in respected systems that Pop loves(UNC and Larry Brown) and has shown that he is willing to push the envelope to inspire his team. I love the Low-key Spurs but sometimes, you have to be willing to body-check someone to let them know that you're here to play HARD.

[Bender]

Rasheed is one of Pop's favorite players in the league and he's wanted him since Pop's days back in Golden State.
I seem to remember Rasheed & Tim joking around when they play each other. They seem to be friendly.

[SenorSpur]

I must admit I'm still ambivalent about Rasheed coming to the Spurs. I know they are a lot of supporters in this forum for him coming to SA. I can see why.

In his prime, I always thought Sheed could have been one of the best PF's in the league. However, he has been an enigma. And the fact...that he has gotten out-of-control with his behavior in Detroit's last two or three playoff series.....just worries me.

I know that if he comes to the Spurs....Pop and TD will be able to mitigate his act somewhat. But he's 35 and set in his ways.

I prefer the Spurs go after Gortat instead. He's 6'11, a good defender, and can block shots. He played good defense in ECF vs the Cavs and block a few of Lebron's shots as he drove to the lane. Also, he was decent against Bynum in the Finals.

I believe that is someone that Spurs need more than Rasheed. I know I'm in the minority with this.....but getting a big that can protect the rim is more important to me than getting a talented engima who is a little beyond his prime.

Hmmmm....maybe my buddy SenorSpur could convince me why the Spurs should take Sheed!! :lol

:flag:

MarHill, I think you just convinced me on Gortat. What are our chances? :lol

I will say this about Sheed - much like Shaq, when he's properly motivated, he can be a difference-maker. With his chummy relationship with Tim and the respect he has for Pop, I wouldn't worry much about his loose temper.

Speaking of his temper, it overshadows one of the most underrated things about Sheed - his basketball intelligence. This guy is one smart player.

Example #1:
One of his previous coaches, Jim Lyman, commented once before how he believed Sheed would make an excellent coach someday. Why? Because it was common place, in practice, for Sheed to know not only where he was supposed to be at all times, but he also knew where all 4 of his teammates were supposed to be on every play.

Example #2:
Zach Randolph credits Sheed to this day for making him into an NBA player. Wonder why Randolph is a walking double-double? Because Sheed "kicked his ass" every day in practice and after practice. When Randolph was exhausted after practice, it was commonplace for Sheed to grab him and say, "No rookie, you're not done yet." Sheed would force him into one-on-one games, literally everyday after practice. During which time, he'd show Randolph the art of rebounding, timing, positioning, how to score in the low post, etc. It was during those sessions, where Randolph learned those tricks of the NBA trade and soon his game began to take off.

You have to admit that that is the kind of unselfish, willing, mentor you'd like to have on the roster for young players like Ian, Blair, Gist and others. For what it's worth, he's done some dumb things back in his younger JailBlazer days. Yet, every Blazer and Pistons player that ever played with Sheed absolutely loves the guy. Just ask Ben Wallace and Chauncey Billups.

All that said, now that the Spurs have a true low-post replacement for KT, in Blair, Sheed makes a lot of sense now. He can spread the floor for TD on offense, and he's still one of the better low-post defenders in the NBA - even at his advance age. A 2-yr deal, at a reasonable price, is very doable.

BTW, I don't favor Sheed over Gortat because he makes a lot of sense too. I just wouldn't be mad if Sheed was the choice. Plus, I can see Pop and RC holding Sheed's experience in very high esteem. I can't see Pop going with TD and 3 inexperienced bigs.

[Duncan2177]

ESPN has speculated that 'Sheed will end up in Orlando... any thoughts?

[peskypesky]

I think it's up to Sheed, there will be plenty of offers for him, but I think San Antonio needs him more than any other team he could play for. If the Spurs can sign Sheed, that makes them a legit threat to win the 2010 NBA title imo.

a threat? i'd say a lock to win the 2010 title.

[phyzik]

ESPN has speculated that 'Sheed will end up in Orlando... any thoughts?

I think they just dread the idea of this stacked Spurs team also adding Sheed. They hate the thought of another Spurs finals appearance and are hoping against hope that it doesnt happen.

[crc21209]

ESPN has speculated that 'Sheed will end up in Orlando... any thoughts?

Where have you seen this? I havent seen this anywhere.

[Spursmania]

Where have you seen this? I havent seen this anywhere.

Yeah, I haven't seen this either. Was this today?

[4RINGS]

Sheed would take away our SOFT label...

[4RINGS]

Sheed is a good defender and would do a nice job against Gasol, Dirk, etc. Plus he could hit 3's.

[Duncan2177]

Yeah, I haven't seen this either. Was this today?

I heard it on espn radio this morning.

[4RINGS]

Gortat, Bonner can not cover Dirk and Bowen is gone.

[Duncan2177]

The magic are expected to make offers next week to Wallace and Bass.

http://hoopshype.com/

[4RINGS]

Gortat Playoff Stats
PPG 3.3
RPG 3.2
APG 0.1

We could have kept Fab and/or K. Thomas for these types of numbers... NO THANKS!! We deserve better.

[4RINGS]

The magic are expected to make offers next week to Wallace and Bass.

http://hoopshype.com/


Of course, everyone will make a run at Sheed, he is a proven player. RC, POP work your magic.

[Thompson]

Gortat Playoff Stats
PPG 3.3
RPG 3.2
APG 0.1

We could have kept Fab and/or K. Thomas for these types of numbers... NO THANKS!! We deserve better.

Yes, but Gortat was playing behind Dwight Howard, who probably played close to 40 minutes a game. How many minutes did it take Gortat to get those numbers? All I know is that he looked pretty good in the limited amount of time I saw him on the court. That said, I would like to see Rasheed here. It is a risk, but I think Pop and Tim, plus the chance to win another title or two will keep him (mostly) in check.

[4RINGS]

Yes, but Gortat was playing behind Dwight Howard, who probably played close to 40 minutes a game. How many minutes did it take Gortat to get those numbers? All I know is that he looked pretty good in the limited amount of time I saw him on the court. That said, I would like to see Rasheed here. It is a risk, but I think Pop and Tim, plus the chance to win another title or two will keep him (mostly) in check.

12 min per game.

Fab
PPG 6.0
RPG 2.0
APG 0.0

K.Thomas
PPG 2.6
RPG 4.6
APG 0.4

I think we want a STARTER not another bench guy. Bonner needs to come off the bench, that is when he is effective.

[Mel_13]

Yeah I bet that the magic will go after Sheed, but not give hime nearly the money he will want.

I can see the Spurs giving Sheed that 5 million a year now that we drafted a big that might be able to help right away.

Why would the Magic be any less likely than the Spurs to make a 5M+ offer to Sheed?

[Mugen]

its pretty much just going to come down to Sheed's decision.

both teams are going to offer the same amount of money and a promise of contending for the championship.

i just think the spurs have too many incentives in their favor that might sway Sheed.

[Muser]

If Sheed really is close to Duncan and he has been sighted in SA, then i'm confident he could be signed, but i'll wait until Wednesday to get excited.

[picnroll]

Undoubtedly Sheed will visit SA and Orlando, maybe other cities as well, and let the teams make their case before deciding.

[4RINGS]

ESPN is hoping Sheed signs with the Magic...they do not want the SPURS to de-throne their precious Lakers... boo whooo

[HarlemHeat37]

Stuart Scott sounded so sad when Vitale said he thinks the Spurs will be in the Finals..I'm not playing btw, he actually sounded sad..I can't imagine their reactions if we add Wallace to the mix..

I'm hoping for a San Antonio vs. Orlando or Boston Finals..I can't even imagine how hyped a Lebron/Shaq vs. Kobe Finals would be..

[Juanobili]

I can't even imagine how hyped a Lebron/Shaq vs. Kobe Finals would be..

ugh, I bet the hype starts during the pre-season...

[Mr. Body]

One of my wife's best friends works for ESPN the Magazine. She's a good girl, but I fight the urge to tell her straight out how much her company sucks for sports.

[Blackjack]

^^Stop fighting it...

YOU CAN DO IT!

[Chillen]

I think San Antonio needs him the most, but it's his decision and it will boil down to money. If the Magic can sign him that would be a good signing for them, but the Spurs really need a big like Sheed.

[MarHill]

MarHill, I think you just convinced me on Gortat. What are our chances? :lol

I will say this about Sheed - much like Shaq, when he's properly motivated, he can be a difference-maker. With his chummy relationship with Tim and the respect he has for Pop, I wouldn't worry much about his loose temper.

Speaking of his temper, it overshadows one of the most underrated things about Sheed - his basketball intelligence. This guy is one smart player.

Example #1:
One of his previous coaches, Jim Lyman, commented once before how he believed Sheed would make an excellent coach someday. Why? Because it was common place, in practice, for Sheed to know not only where he was supposed to be at all times, but he also knew where all 4 of his teammates were supposed to be on every play.

Example #2:
Zach Randolph credits Sheed to this day for making him into an NBA player. Wonder why Randolph is a walking double-double? Because Sheed "kicked his ass" every day in practice and after practice. When Randolph was exhausted after practice, it was commonplace for Sheed to grab him and say, "No rookie, you're not done yet." Sheed would force him into one-on-one games, literally everyday after practice. During which time, he'd show Randolph the art of rebounding, timing, positioning, how to score in the low post, etc. It was during those sessions, where Randolph learned those tricks of the NBA trade and soon his game began to take off.

You have to admit that that is the kind of unselfish, willing, mentor you'd like to have on the roster for young players like Ian, Blair, Gist and others. For what it's worth, he's done some dumb things back in his younger JailBlazer days. Yet, every Blazer and Pistons player that ever played with Sheed absolutely loves the guy. Just ask Ben Wallace and Chauncey Billups.

All that said, now that the Spurs have a true low-post replacement for KT, in Blair, Sheed makes a lot of sense now. He can spread the floor for TD on offense, and he's still one of the better low-post defenders in the NBA - even at his advance age. A 2-yr deal, at a reasonable price, is very doable.

BTW, I don't favor Sheed over Gortat because he makes a lot of sense too. I just wouldn't be mad if Sheed was the choice. Plus, I can see Pop and RC holding Sheed's experience in very high esteem. I can't see Pop going with TD and 3 inexperienced bigs.

SenorSpur,

Those were very good examples about Rasheed being a good teammate. I have heard that he has been an excellent teammate with Detroit and Portland.

I knew you would give me some good examples to convince me about Rasheed.

I just don't want him to lose it emotionally in the playoffs...for example in a game in vs. the Lakers in the WCF.

He needs to be focused and all in for the Spurs to win a championship.

If Lamar Odom could do this past year....Sheed can too! He's still an enigma...though!! :lol

Also, I just like Gortat's ability to protect the rim more than Sheed at this point in his career. I don't think there is another big in FA like that.

So if the Spurs get one of these two......they will be okay.

SenorSpur...I'm still trying to convince myself about Rasheed. LOL!!

:toast

[4RINGS]

If Gortat was so great, the Magic would have won more games in the Finals. Give me Sheed attitude and all. We do not always have to be the choir boys of the NBA to win it all.

[Spurs Brazil]

I don't know if Wallace will go to Orlando. Wallace style is completely different than Hedo. If he sign there Orlando will change the way they played in the last 2 seasons

[Thompson]

One of my wife's best friends works for ESPN the Magazine. She's a good girl, but I fight the urge to tell her straight out how much her company sucks for sports.

Make a list and show her your complaints. Who knows, maybe she shows them to the higher-ups and some of them are corrected. Maybe no one has pointed out their flaws to them.

[Spursfan092120]

ugh, I bet the hype starts during the pre-season...
Shit..it started as soon as rumors of Shaq to Cleveland started

http://www.post-trib.com/sports/1623865,bkn-comment-0616.article

[Mr. Body]

Make a list and show her your complaints. Who knows, maybe she shows them to the higher-ups and some of them are corrected. Maybe no one has pointed out their flaws to them.

Man, it'd be a full-time job to chronicle how bad ESPN is.

[MarHill]

If Gortat was so great, the Magic would have won more games in the Finals. Give me Sheed attitude and all. We do not always have to be the choir boys of the NBA to win it all.

It has nothing to do with being the choir boys of the NBA.

Gortat was a backup and he showed he could defend and protect the rim. That's we the Spurs need behind Timmy.

The closest person they have had like that since Robinson left was Rasho. And they won a title with him in '05.

The Spurs' big needs to fill that need and Gortat has shown in a backup role...he can do that.

I like Sheed and he's very talented even at this late stage of his career. I'm still a little worry because of his enigmatic personality.

But if he's focused.....then the Spurs will have a strong shot to win it all.

Gortat does fill a need too!!

[smrattler]

One of my wife's best friends works for ESPN the Magazine. She's a good girl, but I fight the urge to tell her straight out how much her company sucks for sports.

Is she hot?

Is she also a "bad" girl?

Do you fight other urges around her? :fro

[Biernutz]

AOL FAN HOUSE --Where is Rasheed? Are the Spurs still in the mix? Nothing about the Spurs----

Link-----http://nba.fanhouse.com/2009/06/26/magic-to-pursue-rasheed-wallace-brandon-bass/

Magic to Pursue Rasheed Wallace and Brandon Bass

Posted Jun 26, 2009 7:10PM By Tim Povtak (http://www.fanhouse.com/bloggers/tim-povtak/)

http://www.blogcdn.com/nba.fanhouse.com/media/2009/06/rasheed-150-062609cn.jpgNow that they have landed All-Star Vince Carter (http://www.fanhouse.com/tag/Vince+Carter/) and all but said goodbye to Hedo Turkoglu (http://www.fanhouse.com/tag/Hedo+Turkoglu/), the Orlando Magic (http://nba.fanhouse.com/team/magic/) will try to rebuild their supporting cast by targeting a pair of vastly different free-agent frontcourt players.

After losing to the Lakers (http://nba.fanhouse.com/team/lakers/) and their big front line in the NBA Finals, the Magic are expected to make offers next week in free agency to both veteran Rasheed Wallace (http://www.fanhouse.com/tag/Rasheed+Wallace/) of Detroit and young Brandon Bass (http://www.fanhouse.com/tag/Brandon+Bass/) of Dallas, according to two NBA sources.

Wallace, 34, is expected to be pursued by both the Magic and the Boston Celtics (http://nba.fanhouse.com/team/celtics/), who are competing with the Cleveland Cavaliers (http://nba.fanhouse.com/team/cavaliers/) for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Wallace has played 14 seasons in the NBA (http://nba.fanhouse.com/), earning a reputation as an often enigmatic, but unselfish player with championship experience.

[45 bank shot]

AOL FAN HOUSE --Where is Rasheed? Are the Spurs still in the mix? Nothing about the Spurs----

Link-----http://nba.fanhouse.com/2009/06/26/magic-to-pursue-rasheed-wallace-brandon-bass/

Magic to Pursue Rasheed Wallace and Brandon Bass

Posted Jun 26, 2009 7:10PM By Tim Povtak (http://www.fanhouse.com/bloggers/tim-povtak/)

http://www.blogcdn.com/nba.fanhouse.com/media/2009/06/rasheed-150-062609cn.jpgNow that they have landed All-Star Vince Carter (http://www.fanhouse.com/tag/Vince+Carter/) and all but said goodbye to Hedo Turkoglu (http://www.fanhouse.com/tag/Hedo+Turkoglu/), the Orlando Magic (http://nba.fanhouse.com/team/magic/) will try to rebuild their supporting cast by targeting a pair of vastly different free-agent frontcourt players.

After losing to the Lakers (http://nba.fanhouse.com/team/lakers/) and their big front line in the NBA Finals, the Magic are expected to make offers next week in free agency to both veteran Rasheed Wallace (http://www.fanhouse.com/tag/Rasheed+Wallace/) of Detroit and young Brandon Bass (http://www.fanhouse.com/tag/Brandon+Bass/) of Dallas, according to two NBA sources.

Wallace, 34, is expected to be pursued by both the Magic and the Boston Celtics (http://nba.fanhouse.com/team/celtics/), who are competing with the Cleveland Cavaliers (http://nba.fanhouse.com/team/cavaliers/) for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Wallace has played 14 seasons in the NBA (http://nba.fanhouse.com/), earning a reputation as an often enigmatic, but unselfish player with championship experience.

Screw Orlando, let's snatch sheed in a heart beat

[duncan228]

AOL FAN HOUSE --Where is Rasheed? Are the Spurs still in the mix? Nothing about the Spurs----

The Fan House piece is linked in Alexander's article in the first post. Alexander says that Rasheed "appears to be a player in demand by some of the powers in the East," he links Orlando and Boston. I think the Spurs are in the mix if they want to be, they just don't go public about this stuff.

[Mugen]

maybe i am a little biased, but i think Bass is actually a better fit in Orlando than sheed.

hes gonna be a lot harder to sign.

But Bass likes to run and would fit their uptempo style well but I guess the Magic like Sheed's 3 pt shooting as well.

[rascal]

its pretty much just going to come down to Sheed's decision.

both teams are going to offer the same amount of money and a promise of contending for the championship.

i just think the spurs have too many incentives in their favor that might sway Sheed.

And what are those incentives? The Magic are also
loaded with talent and made it to the finals this year.

[Mugen]

And what are those incentives? The Magic are also
loaded with talent and made it to the finals this year.

Hall of Fame Coach
Hall of Fame Player
Championship Pedigree
A chance to stick it to the lakers
Style of Play more suited to his game


(Dwight is not a HOF player just yet)

[smrattler]

And what are those incentives? The Magic are also
loaded with talent and made it to the finals this year.

I agree. Magic got past that Cavs team with little trouble, tore through them.

Shaq helps, but one year from now he'll be like 38 yrs old and aging fast. Howard... one year even closer to hitting his prime. Shaq will put up a better fight than Carrott-Top and IllGotSick, but Howard still has the advantage there.

And they added VC to boot?

Wallace will think long and hard about playing next to a beast like Howard and not have to guard those big guys and watch VC drop 20+ a night.

A trip to the Finals might look easier to him in the East. The West is pretty deep and he'd be asked to guard and bang with those bigs (Lakers, Denver, Houston, Portland just to name a few). The East might be a two horse race with the Magic whipping that other horse already this year.

[Jace]

I think the Magic will regret not signing Hedo

[4RINGS]

I think the Magic will regret not signing Hedo

Where will Hedo end up???

[DJB]

I agree. Magic got past that Cavs team with little trouble, tore through them.


Your forgetting that Hedo is opting out and not resigning. I think that without Hedo, the Orlando Magic will not see the Eastern Conf Finals next season. He does so much for them. He was their go to guy for sure. Now I know you are going to say "well they just signed VC." But I just see the signing of VC bringing chemistry issues to their team. I don't know why, but I feel that he will.

[Mel_13]

Where will Hedo end up???

Early favorites would be Portland and Detroit. The only other teams that can offer more than the MLE are OKC, Memphis and Sacramento. Toronto and Atlanta may be able to as well depending on what they do with their own FAs.

[SouthTexasRancher]

On Ticket 760 tonight the two hosts were saying the word is Sheed really wants to play with Orlando this coming season. They also said the Spurs had the best week of all the NBA teams this past week and the Spurs were the class of the NBA. Not knowing what Orlando's salary situation is Sheed's wish (if true) may not happen. Then again based on the call-in yesterday on the Chris and Jason Show on ESPN 1250 Sheed may be playing coy with the media. Weds. is July 1st so we may know something real soon. Not sure if Sheed is ready to sign with anyone for just the MLE but, for a real chance at another ring he may be willing to roll the dice for a season or two. His chances are much better with the Spurs than with Orlando.