spursfaninla
05-30-2007, 01:43 PM
I got 3 of my questions answered, IN A ROW! That has to be some kind of record. I think he is the best commentator around; logical, reasonable, tasteful.
My questions bold and underlined. Spurs related just bolded.
dupree chat (http://transcripts.usatoday.com/Chats/transcript.aspx?c=1284)
Comment from David DuPree: Hi, everybody. Thanks for joining me in our regular time slot. I apologize again for having to have the chat changed to Tuesday last week. With the Pistons unraveling, the Spurs rolling, Kobe venting and the draft coming up, there is plenty to talk about. So let's get right to it, share some opinions and have a little fun here - DuPree
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Dave, Waterloo Ontario: Hey Dave, If you could only choose one player in their prime would you pick Shaq or Duncan and why?
David DuPree: I'd take Tim Duncan. I think he is more versatile than Shaq and you can do more things at both ends of the floor with him. He isn't nearly as dominant a Shaq in his prime, but he is one of the most consistently great players I have ever seen. I think your team would have a lot less drama with Duncan, too, and everyone says how easy he is to play with. The man has no ego, isn't stat-conscious and just wants to win. He'd be happy if his name was never in the paper and his image never on TV. I can't imagine Shaq being too happy if that was the case with him.
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Detroit, Michigan: Do you feel that Cleveland can beat the piston's or do view them as the underdog's? Terry.
David DuPree: Hi, Terry. I still look at the Cavs as the underdogs because the home team has won every game in the series so far, and two of the next three games -- if all are necessary -- will be in Detroit. With that said, however, I like the chemistry and the effort I see in Cleveland, and not the body language and vibe I get from Detroit. Cleveland could very well win the series unless Detroit gets a different mindset.
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Jeff - Belgium: Xin Chao Anh Dave, First of all, I have to declare my admiration to you about the answer you gave regarding those silly racist jibes last week. People forget that you could just not choose to answer those kind of comments but you posted it and answered in the way it should be even if they were completely insulting to you as a person. For me, that 's a great sign of humanity and dignity ! . To all followers (if I may), sport is global so are we. Technically,and humanly, we are all brothers and I am glad to be part of that ;-) Respect to all of you wherever you come from ! To come back on basketball manners, I am glad to see that we have a serie between Detroit and Cleveland ! Play-off are won in the paint and game 3 and 4 were all about getting to the basket and the freethrow line. Same story with the spurs victory in game 4. People can complaint about contact but I rather watch games with that kind of intensity than a long distance shootout contest. Do you think the Jazz can cause an upset ? And who will be in the final with the spurs ? Detroit or Cleveland ? Have a nice day. Jeff
David DuPree: Xin Chao Anh, Jeff. Thanks so much for your comment. It means a lot to me that the regular followers of my chat, such as yourself, understand where I am coming from -- and thanks for your message to all. Voices of reason and sanity like yours are always welcome. I couldn't have said anything better than your comment about us all being brothers. We all do what we have to do, and I have always just tried to be fair, honest, compassionate and understanding, and I try my best to not take anything personal. Thanks again, Jeff. ... As for your basketball question, I am very impressed with the way LeBron and the Cavaliers have played in making that a series. I still think the Pistons are too good as a team for Cleveland, but until they get their minds straight, they are going to struggle. So much of this game is mental, and their mental approach, for some reason, just doesn't seem to be what it should be. That's how upsets happen, but I think they will regroup and pull out the series in six games. ... I love the Jazz, but I think they have come to the end of the line against the Spurs. San Antonio is just too smart and too good and always seems to come up with the right answers when they need them. I think we are headed for another Spurs-Pistons Finals.
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Josh Meyer (Fort Dodge, IA): How much interest do my Wolves have in Conley Jr., and is Foye capable of playing as the off guard?
David DuPree: Every team in the league has an interest in Mike Conley Jr., and if he is there when the Timberwolves pick, I think it would be a wise choice. I think without a doubt Randy Foye can play the off guard. They'd have a pretty good ballhandling backcourt out there with Conley and Foye. I like that a lot.
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Seattle, WA: What are the Kings going to do in the off season? Does Bibby stay and who is their new coach going to be? The era of C Webb and Vlade is long gone.
David DuPree: The Kings need a major overhaul, in my opinion. If Mike Bibby wants to stay, then fine, keep him, but this team needs so much help they had better try to get it from wherever they can. I don't know who will be the next Kings coach, but I bet it will be an offensive guy. I think they made two mistakes the last time -- one was firing Rick Adelman and the other one was hiring Eric Musselman. They have to be very careful with their next coach. The era of C. Webb and Vlade is indeed long gone. It's tough to start over, but realistically, other than Kevin Martin, who isn't expendable? And Martin might even be if the offer is right. This team has as many offseason issues facing it as any team. It is really going to be interesting.
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kinde, mi: I'm afraid the Cavs ae for real. Pistons aren't playing up to par & lack a killer instinct, what's going on?
David DuPree: You said it all. The Cavaliers are indeed for real because they are all on the same page and they believe in each other. They have one leader and they follow him. The Pistons are in a funk for some reason, and that sets up the perfect scenario for an upset.
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Los Angelas: Oh my Dave what do you think of kobe coming out and upstaging the playoffs with a request for jerry west.. He first told Espns Bucher that its west or he will demand a trade but then did interviews with LA media and backtracked saying he never demanded a trade.He even posted it on his personal website.Bucher wouldnt risk his job by lieng about something so big.Obviously kobe realized the utter chaos he created by relaying that message and backtracked. Kobe should have kept this behind closed doors,even though I would love to have Jerry West back.Its insulting to Mitch and the Buss family to come out and tell the Organization what to do in such a public way.Kobe obviously doesnt care about his image,cause by doing this he opened up the kobe did this to himself nonsense by trading shaq.He gave more ammo for all the sportswriters who already dont like him Personally I would love to see him go to Dallas or the bulls and have a real shot at atleast getting to the finals.I am sick of seeing him elimated in the first round.The lakers are wasting his prime years. Do you think he will demand a trade if the lakers do nohting this summer and barely make the playoffs next season?Will a lot of teams go after him if the lakers put him on the market?
David DuPree: Like it or not, Kobe Bryant is the biggest star in the league. I just can't see the Lakers trading him under any circumstance unless he outright demands it and they can get a superstar or two in return. Any team acquiring Bryant will have to just about gut their team to get him, and is that worth it? It looks to me like the Lakers and Kobe are destined to be together and are forced into making this work. As you know from my previous chats, I like Kobe. I think he is a winner and is also the most misunderstood player in the league. He wants to win and the Lakers haven't done much to improve his chances of doing that. I mean, Smush Parker as your starting point guard ... for two seasons. Give me a break. Kobe has been made the scapegoat for every failure that team has had in the past few seasons. I place the blame at the feet of franchise owner Jerry Buss. Kobe is supposed to be his boy, so why isn't he protecting him? Kobe couldn't care less about upstaging the playoffs. He is doing what he is doing now because it is happening now and the frustration is there when he sees LeBron still playing and a rookie like Daniel Gibson contributing -- and he looks at Carlos Boozer and Deron Williams and wonders why everyone else can get the job done except his team. He's upset and frustrated and feels betrayed by the Lakers. ... As for the Jerry West issue: The salary cap and lack of tradeable parts, except for injured forward Lamar Odom and young center Andrew Bynum, make it difficult for anyone to make a major move, be it West or Mitch Kupchak. How may moves did West make which panned out in Memphis? He isn't a savior. The whole thing is just one big mess. ... If Bryant does go on the block, which again I doubt, don't look past Charlotte. The Bobcats have young players to offer, they have Michael Jordan calling the shots, and a young coach in Sam Vincent whom Kobe knows and respects.
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Tomas, Vilnius, Lithuania: Hi David, everyone's crying about Bulls' need for inside scorer. Well, they did have one and let him go - I'm talking about my man Darius Songaila. The guy has sweet shooting touch, range, can defend, is not expensive and could be had. I'm not buying into Randolph, Jermaine or KG stuff. Do you think they can bring back Songaila from Wizards? I think he would be a perfect fit for this team. Thanks in advance for your answer. Go Lithuania!!!!
David DuPree: Hey, Thomas. The Wizards aren't letting Darius Songaila go, trust me. They know his worth. Songaila is their best inside player by far, and he figures heavily in their plans for next season. Sorry; he isn't going anywhere and could be their starting center in their version of small ball. Go Lithuania!!!
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Orlando, FL: Last week I commented on Lebron and his attempt to change the way leaders win in the playoffs by having the pass first mentality in the closing moments of the game. You disagreed with me and said that he was playing the right way. Since when is playing the right way taking 3 shots in the 4th quarter of game one, and scoring 4 points in the second half of game two and LOSING games as the clear cut leader of the team, playing the right way?? Game three showed Lebron taking more shots in the 4th quarter and winning the game. coincidence?? Sorry DD your the man and I know you love Lebron but you know your wrong on this one........Everyone seemed to make "the pass" the reason for discussion but I was referring to how he performed in both second halves of the first two games. Give me your wise thoughts on this one( I submitted this on Tues afternoon, i gurantee if lebron scores 4 points in the 4th again they lose.....)
David DuPree: I am going to let what LeBron James has done in the series speak for itself. It's all about maturation and growth.
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Orlando, FL: Who wins: this years spurs or the 72-10 Bulls and how many games
David DuPree: The Bulls in six games, maybe five.
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Cherry Hill, NJ: I know you love Lebron and his game, but please tell me where his post moves are?? The guy is 6'8 235 with absolutely no post moves. If we were face to face you could NOT look me in the eye and tell me Lebron has a post game. To tell you the truth he doesn't have that many moves other than the step back and the truck to the basket. Would you agree that he needs to develop a post game in order to truly reign supreme as King?? If not please explain why
David DuPree: LeBron is 22 and has always played on the perimeter. He is developing some post moves, but that isn't where he is most effective. His game will improve each year. Don't forget that he has to do everything for that team and his supporting cast is the weakest of all the teams still playing. Also, as great as he is, he is still a work in progress. Give the young man a little time, please. Look at Jordan and Kobe. Look how long it took for them to find their way -- and when they did, they were older than LeBron and had a lot more help than he has.
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Leslie (Chicago, IL): Hi David. Did you enjoy the draft lottery? I think it's one of the best shows on TV with great anticipation. I don't think the lottery system needs to be changed at all and team management needs to do a better job of acquiring draft pics and signing free agents rather than depending on winning the lottery like Boston or Memphis. Look at the great job the Bulls and Jazz have done in making draft pics and signing free agents. While you have Boston trading thier draft pick last year for Sebastian Telfair and that pick could have been Brandon Roy. Thanks.
David DuPree: Hi, Leslie. You make some great points. The lottery is a quick fix and a crapshoot, and if that is your major hope for improvement, then you aren't going to be very successful. Personally, I think every team with a draft pick should be in the lottery. I just have a problem rewarding losing -- on any level.
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San Antonio, Tx: People talk about dynasty in basketball, what in your opinion consitutes an NBA Dynasty, give us some examples of past dynastys, and would the Spurs fall into that category, "if" they win another championship, thanks, Jay.
David DuPree: Hi, Jay. I define a dynasty as a team that wins at least three championships over a set period, and even when it doesn't win is always a contender. I think the Michael Jordan-led Bulls were a dynasty -- six titles in eight seasons is amazing. The Lakers, when they won three in a row with Shaq and Kobe, were a dynasty, and I think the Spurs could be the most interesting of all dynasties, winning in 1999, 2003 and 2005 and being a contender again with Duncan and Gregg Popovich as the mainstays. Even if they don't win this year, I think they have established themselves as a dynasty.
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SLC UT: DD, I know that the Draft Lottery picks the order of the first 14 teams, but how does the NBA determine the rest of the draft positions?
David DuPree: Actually, the draft lottery only determines the order for teams with the first three picks -- everything else is on winning percentage. That's why Memphis is fourth. The three teams that won in the lottery all pick ahead of them and then everyone else is ranked by winning percentage from worst to first. In other words, the worst the Grizzlies could have picked was fourth and the worst the Celtics could get was fifth, and that's what they both got. In short: Only the 14 nonplayoff teams are eligible for the draft's lottery, and after the first three picks are determined, teams 4-30 are based on reverse winning percentage.
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Marion, Iowa: Hello again DD. Love the chat. It's the best on the internet. Couple of observations about the "potential" finals matchup. There are several factors which may determine the outcome. 1. How does Tony Parker play against Billups? TP has been sucessfully outmatched by Chauncey in the past. Tony has matured this season and is more rounded than any other time in his career. I still see Billups handing it to him though. 2. The missing Wallace. Two years ago the two headed monster of Rasheed and Ben took it to Tim Duncan. TD has held in check for the middle games of the series in Detroit. With Ben Wallace out in Chicago I think the Pistons are going to sorely miss his defensive prescence on Duncan. Webber is no match for TD and I think the Spurs centers of Oberto and Elson will nearly match Webber and McDyess. 3. Flip has never won a championship. He made an interesting comment a few weeks ago that the team "kind of coaches itself" with all of the veteran leadership on the squad. That is true to a point but I just don't see Flip having what it takes to get by Popovich. I see the Spurs winning it in either 6 or 7 games. Curious what you think? Best regards, JB
David DuPree: JB: Thanks for the kind words. I appreciate the support. ... You certainly have a Spurs-Pistons Finals broken down. As for Chauncey Billups and Tony Parker, Bruce Bowen would probably guard Chauncey Billups to spare Parker that, and I think Parker would be fine on offense because of his quickness. Look at how well Daniel Gibson is doing, and he is in the Parker mold. ... No team coaches itself. The Spurs have won two championships in the past five seasons with basically the same veteran team, and Popovich coaches the heck out of them. I like Flip Saunders as a coach, but he doesn't have the attention or the respect of his team that Popovich has.
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David DuPree: Mike Conley Jr. or Joakim Noah.
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NBA FAN: Dubba D! I love the NBA, but lately the Playoffs have been devastating. They are too long. Has the league thought about going to a best of 5 series instead of 7?
David DuPree: The playoffs are indeed much too long, but because of television for one reason, there is no way they will go to a best-of-five format. They used to play best-of-three series in the first round and did away with that, and best-of-five in an early round didn't last long either when they tried that. The best-of-seven format in every round is here to stay.
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San Antonio, TX: David, it seems that Deron Williams is embarrassing Bruce Bowen and having his way with him. Is he that good and what does Bowen need to do to stop or at least slow down Utahs playmaker?
David DuPree: After Steve Nash, Deron Williams might be the second best point guard in the league. He isn't embarrassing Bruce Bowen, he's just playing very well. He's strong, quick, smart, creative, sees the entire court and everything. Bowen is able to force him where he wants him to go, but then Williams is just making plays. All Bowen can do is try to stay in front of him and force him toward help. I don't think any other Spur can do a better job on him. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B'KLYN-in-PUERTO RICO: hey DD, tha saga continues for KOBE, now he wants to bo traded, what is up with this SPOILED KID. first he is drafted by charlotte an d he doesn't want 2 play 4 them, then gets SHAQ out of LA because he wanted it 2 be his team, now he can't handle the situation in LA. grow KID, that what u get 4 being GREEDY. if i,m LA i won't trade him till he can opt out of his contract. what your take.
David DuPree: Kobe is frustrated and feels betrayed for the way the Lakers have declined. He just wants to win. And one more time: He isn't the reason Shaq is out of Los Angeles. Owner Jerry Buss didn't want to invest the money in a declining Shaq, and I think that was the right decision. Kobe has a right to speak his mind, as he certainly has given his all to that team. Sure, he might be a little spoiled, but he puts his money where his mouth is and you can't question his desire to win or his competitive spirit.
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Orem, UT: David, I am horrified beyond belief when I see that Derek Fisher was called for a technical FOR GINOBLI RUNNING INTO HIM FROM BEHIND! It just makes me sick when I hear people say that Fisher should have kept his composure. How is standing there and having someone run into you and then jump away from you losing your composure. This needs to be addressed. Please let me know your take.
David DuPree: Believe me, I am neutral and Derek Fisher is one of my favorite players, but he was the culprit here. He initiated the contact and did lose his composure. It happens. I have learned over the years to ignore the officials and just play. You have to assume they are honest and doing the best they can, and devote yourself to just doing your job on the court. Any other attitude and it affects a player's focus and mental approach.
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Arnold (DC): Where does Ron Artest plays next season !
David DuPree: I think Ron Artest will somehow end up with the Lakers.
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David, Grove, OK: I've been hearing about Brazil's Luis Scola for a couple of years now. How good is he and when are the Spurs are going to finally bring him over.
David DuPree: Luis Scola is from Brazil and could be the best big man in Europe. A buyout of his contract is the only thing keeping him away from the Spurs, but there is a decent chance he will be with them next season. He plays a lot like Fabricio Oberto. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Winnipeg, MB: I've been a quiet reader of your chats for a long time. Those comments made about you last week, nothing is further from truth... Keep doing the great work! Slaven
David DuPree: Thank you, Slaven.
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Paul Tinley Park, IL: Well, what do you think of Kobe to Chicago? It looks like he is going somewhere.
David DuPree: I still think Kobe and the Lakers will work things out, but if not, Chicago goes to the head of the class because they have so much they can offer in return. They just need to decide if they want to go after Kevin Garnett or Kobe. Garnett might be a better fit for them.
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la, ca: do the bulls let Nocioni go? They have alot of guys to pay, and he will go for the MLE or more, right? Who could the spurs get to take over the SF position from aging Bowen?
David DuPree: Andres Nocioni is a pretty valuable guy, and I don't think they want to let him go. I can't think of a better person suited for the Spurs than him. Can you?
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la, ca: is parker and manu = kobe in trade? Laker's get youth and a great player in Manu for another couple of years. Spurs get an unstoppable tandem. NO way the Spurs do this, but is it equal?
David DuPree: I think it is pretty equal but of course isn't going to happen.
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la, ca: People were talking of Duncan's decline last year, but he looks to still be at his best this year. He is less athletic with age, but smarter and a better passer. How much longer will he be this effective, and do you see Parker becoming the primary scorer for the Spurs in the future? Which of the Spurs oversea's guys will actually join them? Scola is getting old and seems to be too redundant with Duncan's game...
David DuPree: Duncan has lost a little, but only a very little and is still much in his prime. I'd say he has three or four more years at this level, which is good enough to make the Spurs a contender every year. I see Manu being more of the big scorer without Duncan than Parker. Scola is only 27 or 28, and I see nothing wrong with being redundant with Duncan. He and David Robinson made that work pretty well, I think.
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(Quest) Mt Vernon, NY: There appears to be some discord with the Suns if you believe everything you read. Any truth to Marion feeling under-appreciated and Amare being chewed out by Nash for whining all the time or is this just normal guy/teammate stuff?
David DuPree: A lot of it is normal stuff. Steve Nash is being a leader and trying to get Amare Stoudemire to the next level and help him with his mental toughness. If Shawn Marion feels underappreciated, he's crazy. They are always saying how valuable he is; he gets the minutes and he gets max money.
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Rob - Denver, CO: Hey Dave, Love reading your chat and totally agree with Jeff from Belgium! I have been a life long fan of the Spurs GO! SPURS! GO! I have been upset over their new lable of being a "dirty" team. Do you truly believe they are dirty or just a tough grind it out team? I would love your perspective.
David DuPree: The Spurs play hard, they challenge shots and they don't back down. Basketball is an aggressive game, and calling a team dirty because it plays to win is ridiculous.
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san antonio texas: ok DD agree or disagree, best teams in order, Russels celtics, west's Lakers, Bird's 86 Celtics, Magics 87 Lakers, Michaels bulls, isiahs pistons , Duncan's Spurs , Shaq's lakers , Ervings 76ers, akeems rockets
David DuPree: Hmmm. My order would be Russell's Celtics, Erving's 76ers, Magic's Lakers, Bird's Celtics, Duncan's Spurs, West's Lakers, Isiah's Pistons and Hakeem's Rockets.
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Jamey in San Antonio: Good day sir, So are the Spurs your favorite to win it all?
David DuPree: Hi, Jamey. I'd say it's theirs to lose.
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Washington, DC: Hello David, Kobe just said on the Stephen A Smith radio show minutes ago that he wanted to be traded and under no circumstances would he want to come back and play with LA!! If you were the Wizards would you give up Gilbert Arenas and a #1 for Kobe?
David DuPree: Maybe I'm being naive about this, but I still think they will be able to work something out and Kobe will stay. If not, a lot of teams will be in the running for him, and it will take a lot more than Gilbert Arenas and a nonlottery No. 1 to get him. I just don't think the Wizards have enough to offer to be a real contender in any Kobe sweepstakes.
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Arnold (DC): What will Miami Heat do in the offseason !
David DuPree: The Heat need to decide if they are going to move Wade to point guard. If not, they need to go out and get one. Also, Shaq isn't the dominant player he once was; he needs better players around him to continue to be effective. I think this team is in for a major overhaul because it is not a contender as is.
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Gary from orem, Utah: hey dave i hope you'll include my message here this week thanks; first off i wanted to say i also, had already predicted that my spurs would beat utah in five games , just like you predicted too. but i also, had predicted my spurs over the suns in six, and it too happened that same way too. i had noticed that before the sun-spurs series you had the suns in seven, it's all good we're all human and can be wrong, i know. anyways i was gonna say , told ya so;; one last thing'' i have to live here in utah and there is actually a fair number of idiotic mentally distrurbed fans who have to throw thing onto the court, like that carmex, that hit bruce, and the beer, that got tony a little wet on his jersey. i hate poor losers, like alot of these jazz fans, and suns fans before them have been , all the trash talk jealousy. all this does is enforce that they know that the spurs are the best. one last thing dave; in one of your earlier messages, you said , if the pistons get to the finals against, my spurs, you'd pick the spurs in six, i definitely agree with that prediction. but if some how the cavs get lucky and get there, i say the spurs over the cavs in five. what do you say? talk to me.
David DuPree: Hi, Gary. I was indeed wrong in predicting the Suns over the Spurs. I thought they had what it took, but I was obviously wrong. If the Cavs do get by the Pistons, I agree with the Spurs in five against them in the Finals. This looks like San Antonio's year. They are the most balanced team and they look like the most mentally tough as well. They have three stars and a host of role players who know and accept their roles, and they have a proven system that everyone believes in.
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houst tx: dave , i have seen a lot of talk of duncan's place among big men... where do you rank him in the group of: Russel, Wilt, kareem, Shaq, Robinson, Dream, Ewing,Malone and Barkley? I am ignoring the fact that he is listed as PF on some game sheets and as C on others...he is in the paint in crunch time period. I taking into consideration team leadership abilities, Number of Titles, MVP's, and Defensive skills. And i am considering a body of work of at least 10 years; to level out any single standout season I have it as such: Russell Wilt Duncan Kareem Shaq Dream Robinson Malone Barkely yours?
David DuPree: In the order of your initial list, I put him right after Kareem.
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houston, tx: Should the Suns trade Marion for Artest? Marion vs Artest? Artest can create his own shot. MArion cant Artest better role player MArion wants to be the lead option Artest better rebounder Artest better defensive player Artest better shooter. That simple? Marion over-achiever? Artest Underachiever?
David DuPree: Don't do it. Artest can create a lot of headaches for his own team.
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Tom Perrone ( Crystal Lake, Illinois ): Hi, David: I wonder if a more significant point is being missed in the controversy between Kobe Bryant and the Lakers. With Bryant's salary, and, more importantly, the lack of players with considerable trade value on the Lakers' Roster, doesn't Bryant's hope that Jerry West serve as general manager seem almost insignificant? Whether Mitch Kupchak or West controls the team, I do not see how the Lakers will return as a serious championship threat in the next five to six years, which would mark Bryant's career prime. Ironically, the Lakers' best option may be trading Bryant, because, with him, and the dearth of talent surrounding him with no immediate and significant improvement feasible, they will not contend soon. Thank you.
David DuPree: Hey, Tom. You certainly make a lot of relevant points, and I'm sure that's what the Lakers are thinking, too.
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Dallas, Tx: I think the team that could really use Kobe is Dallas if they can get him without giving up Dirk. Dirk needs a #1 guy to play with to take the big shot s and a tough perimeter defender. Is there any package they could put together to get it done?
David DuPree: Josh Howard, Jason Terry and DeSagana Diop and a couple of draft picks might get it done.
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SLC UT: I was at the last Jazz game and was really disappointed with the officiating. It seemed to me that Steve Javey had an agenda to make sure the Spurs won. I don't know if it was the fan in me or not, but how come we never hear about any reprocussions when referees blow calls. Plus the stripes were very "T" happy, did you see the same game or did I just have my Jazz goggles on?
David DuPree: I think you have your Jazz goggles on, but that's OK. Believe me, there are repercussions when refs consistently make poor calls. They aren't made public because that serves no purpose. NBA officials are the most reviewed group of people in any sport. They have to give written reports on every game after the game, explain controversial calls and all sorts of stuff. They also get rated, and the top-rated ones work the most games as well as the important games.
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SAn Antonio, TX: Hey dd, hope you're doing well , my man. I read your transcripts every wednesday......Good stuff. First off, I have to vent a little. For the last couple of years , you have always picked my beloved SPURS to win the title, but I think this year was the first time you picked Phoenix to win it all.................it's okay dave, we all make mistakes. Then to top things off, charles barkley, a big time SPURS fan, jumps off our bandwagon, and onto UTAH's bandwagon............. another disturbing trend. The bottom line this year ,dave, is that TIM DUNCAN is healthy. Everyone forgot that TD was walking around with a limp all last year......not this year. So anyhow, now who's your pick......detroit.....or san antonio? take care DD.
David DuPree: I felt a little guilty picking the Spurs to win every year, and I really thought the NBA was ready for a high-scoring team to win it all. Forgive me. I am back on the Spurs bandwagon.
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: Phila, Pa: Hi, Dave I pray you and your family are doing well. Keep up the great work on the chats, you do an outstanding job. The criticism of Lebron James is insane. The guy is outstanding and plays intelligent basketball. Donyell Marshall should have received criticism and not Lebron for missing a wide-open shot. It was the correct play by Lebron. Larry Hughes missed an easy follow-up in the next game and he should have received criticism for that. Donyell and Larry are making millions of dollars and should be able to make those plays. Everyone complains about Kobe and Iverson being ball hogs and then you have guys like Lebron, Garnett and Duncan being criticized for not being selfish. Make up your mind people.
David DuPree: I agree with everything you say about LeBron. It is still a team game and a right way to play it. Obviously, you understand that. I wish more people did, and a lot of them are in my profession.
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Comment from David DuPree: They are telling me my time is up. So sorry I couldn't get to more of you. Thanks for joining me, and I hope to see you again next week. That will be the eve of the NBA Finals, so there will be plenty to talk about. I'm sure the Kobe rumors will really be flying about by then - DuPree
My questions bold and underlined. Spurs related just bolded.
dupree chat (http://transcripts.usatoday.com/Chats/transcript.aspx?c=1284)
Comment from David DuPree: Hi, everybody. Thanks for joining me in our regular time slot. I apologize again for having to have the chat changed to Tuesday last week. With the Pistons unraveling, the Spurs rolling, Kobe venting and the draft coming up, there is plenty to talk about. So let's get right to it, share some opinions and have a little fun here - DuPree
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Dave, Waterloo Ontario: Hey Dave, If you could only choose one player in their prime would you pick Shaq or Duncan and why?
David DuPree: I'd take Tim Duncan. I think he is more versatile than Shaq and you can do more things at both ends of the floor with him. He isn't nearly as dominant a Shaq in his prime, but he is one of the most consistently great players I have ever seen. I think your team would have a lot less drama with Duncan, too, and everyone says how easy he is to play with. The man has no ego, isn't stat-conscious and just wants to win. He'd be happy if his name was never in the paper and his image never on TV. I can't imagine Shaq being too happy if that was the case with him.
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Detroit, Michigan: Do you feel that Cleveland can beat the piston's or do view them as the underdog's? Terry.
David DuPree: Hi, Terry. I still look at the Cavs as the underdogs because the home team has won every game in the series so far, and two of the next three games -- if all are necessary -- will be in Detroit. With that said, however, I like the chemistry and the effort I see in Cleveland, and not the body language and vibe I get from Detroit. Cleveland could very well win the series unless Detroit gets a different mindset.
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Jeff - Belgium: Xin Chao Anh Dave, First of all, I have to declare my admiration to you about the answer you gave regarding those silly racist jibes last week. People forget that you could just not choose to answer those kind of comments but you posted it and answered in the way it should be even if they were completely insulting to you as a person. For me, that 's a great sign of humanity and dignity ! . To all followers (if I may), sport is global so are we. Technically,and humanly, we are all brothers and I am glad to be part of that ;-) Respect to all of you wherever you come from ! To come back on basketball manners, I am glad to see that we have a serie between Detroit and Cleveland ! Play-off are won in the paint and game 3 and 4 were all about getting to the basket and the freethrow line. Same story with the spurs victory in game 4. People can complaint about contact but I rather watch games with that kind of intensity than a long distance shootout contest. Do you think the Jazz can cause an upset ? And who will be in the final with the spurs ? Detroit or Cleveland ? Have a nice day. Jeff
David DuPree: Xin Chao Anh, Jeff. Thanks so much for your comment. It means a lot to me that the regular followers of my chat, such as yourself, understand where I am coming from -- and thanks for your message to all. Voices of reason and sanity like yours are always welcome. I couldn't have said anything better than your comment about us all being brothers. We all do what we have to do, and I have always just tried to be fair, honest, compassionate and understanding, and I try my best to not take anything personal. Thanks again, Jeff. ... As for your basketball question, I am very impressed with the way LeBron and the Cavaliers have played in making that a series. I still think the Pistons are too good as a team for Cleveland, but until they get their minds straight, they are going to struggle. So much of this game is mental, and their mental approach, for some reason, just doesn't seem to be what it should be. That's how upsets happen, but I think they will regroup and pull out the series in six games. ... I love the Jazz, but I think they have come to the end of the line against the Spurs. San Antonio is just too smart and too good and always seems to come up with the right answers when they need them. I think we are headed for another Spurs-Pistons Finals.
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Josh Meyer (Fort Dodge, IA): How much interest do my Wolves have in Conley Jr., and is Foye capable of playing as the off guard?
David DuPree: Every team in the league has an interest in Mike Conley Jr., and if he is there when the Timberwolves pick, I think it would be a wise choice. I think without a doubt Randy Foye can play the off guard. They'd have a pretty good ballhandling backcourt out there with Conley and Foye. I like that a lot.
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Seattle, WA: What are the Kings going to do in the off season? Does Bibby stay and who is their new coach going to be? The era of C Webb and Vlade is long gone.
David DuPree: The Kings need a major overhaul, in my opinion. If Mike Bibby wants to stay, then fine, keep him, but this team needs so much help they had better try to get it from wherever they can. I don't know who will be the next Kings coach, but I bet it will be an offensive guy. I think they made two mistakes the last time -- one was firing Rick Adelman and the other one was hiring Eric Musselman. They have to be very careful with their next coach. The era of C. Webb and Vlade is indeed long gone. It's tough to start over, but realistically, other than Kevin Martin, who isn't expendable? And Martin might even be if the offer is right. This team has as many offseason issues facing it as any team. It is really going to be interesting.
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kinde, mi: I'm afraid the Cavs ae for real. Pistons aren't playing up to par & lack a killer instinct, what's going on?
David DuPree: You said it all. The Cavaliers are indeed for real because they are all on the same page and they believe in each other. They have one leader and they follow him. The Pistons are in a funk for some reason, and that sets up the perfect scenario for an upset.
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Los Angelas: Oh my Dave what do you think of kobe coming out and upstaging the playoffs with a request for jerry west.. He first told Espns Bucher that its west or he will demand a trade but then did interviews with LA media and backtracked saying he never demanded a trade.He even posted it on his personal website.Bucher wouldnt risk his job by lieng about something so big.Obviously kobe realized the utter chaos he created by relaying that message and backtracked. Kobe should have kept this behind closed doors,even though I would love to have Jerry West back.Its insulting to Mitch and the Buss family to come out and tell the Organization what to do in such a public way.Kobe obviously doesnt care about his image,cause by doing this he opened up the kobe did this to himself nonsense by trading shaq.He gave more ammo for all the sportswriters who already dont like him Personally I would love to see him go to Dallas or the bulls and have a real shot at atleast getting to the finals.I am sick of seeing him elimated in the first round.The lakers are wasting his prime years. Do you think he will demand a trade if the lakers do nohting this summer and barely make the playoffs next season?Will a lot of teams go after him if the lakers put him on the market?
David DuPree: Like it or not, Kobe Bryant is the biggest star in the league. I just can't see the Lakers trading him under any circumstance unless he outright demands it and they can get a superstar or two in return. Any team acquiring Bryant will have to just about gut their team to get him, and is that worth it? It looks to me like the Lakers and Kobe are destined to be together and are forced into making this work. As you know from my previous chats, I like Kobe. I think he is a winner and is also the most misunderstood player in the league. He wants to win and the Lakers haven't done much to improve his chances of doing that. I mean, Smush Parker as your starting point guard ... for two seasons. Give me a break. Kobe has been made the scapegoat for every failure that team has had in the past few seasons. I place the blame at the feet of franchise owner Jerry Buss. Kobe is supposed to be his boy, so why isn't he protecting him? Kobe couldn't care less about upstaging the playoffs. He is doing what he is doing now because it is happening now and the frustration is there when he sees LeBron still playing and a rookie like Daniel Gibson contributing -- and he looks at Carlos Boozer and Deron Williams and wonders why everyone else can get the job done except his team. He's upset and frustrated and feels betrayed by the Lakers. ... As for the Jerry West issue: The salary cap and lack of tradeable parts, except for injured forward Lamar Odom and young center Andrew Bynum, make it difficult for anyone to make a major move, be it West or Mitch Kupchak. How may moves did West make which panned out in Memphis? He isn't a savior. The whole thing is just one big mess. ... If Bryant does go on the block, which again I doubt, don't look past Charlotte. The Bobcats have young players to offer, they have Michael Jordan calling the shots, and a young coach in Sam Vincent whom Kobe knows and respects.
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Tomas, Vilnius, Lithuania: Hi David, everyone's crying about Bulls' need for inside scorer. Well, they did have one and let him go - I'm talking about my man Darius Songaila. The guy has sweet shooting touch, range, can defend, is not expensive and could be had. I'm not buying into Randolph, Jermaine or KG stuff. Do you think they can bring back Songaila from Wizards? I think he would be a perfect fit for this team. Thanks in advance for your answer. Go Lithuania!!!!
David DuPree: Hey, Thomas. The Wizards aren't letting Darius Songaila go, trust me. They know his worth. Songaila is their best inside player by far, and he figures heavily in their plans for next season. Sorry; he isn't going anywhere and could be their starting center in their version of small ball. Go Lithuania!!!
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Orlando, FL: Last week I commented on Lebron and his attempt to change the way leaders win in the playoffs by having the pass first mentality in the closing moments of the game. You disagreed with me and said that he was playing the right way. Since when is playing the right way taking 3 shots in the 4th quarter of game one, and scoring 4 points in the second half of game two and LOSING games as the clear cut leader of the team, playing the right way?? Game three showed Lebron taking more shots in the 4th quarter and winning the game. coincidence?? Sorry DD your the man and I know you love Lebron but you know your wrong on this one........Everyone seemed to make "the pass" the reason for discussion but I was referring to how he performed in both second halves of the first two games. Give me your wise thoughts on this one( I submitted this on Tues afternoon, i gurantee if lebron scores 4 points in the 4th again they lose.....)
David DuPree: I am going to let what LeBron James has done in the series speak for itself. It's all about maturation and growth.
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Orlando, FL: Who wins: this years spurs or the 72-10 Bulls and how many games
David DuPree: The Bulls in six games, maybe five.
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Cherry Hill, NJ: I know you love Lebron and his game, but please tell me where his post moves are?? The guy is 6'8 235 with absolutely no post moves. If we were face to face you could NOT look me in the eye and tell me Lebron has a post game. To tell you the truth he doesn't have that many moves other than the step back and the truck to the basket. Would you agree that he needs to develop a post game in order to truly reign supreme as King?? If not please explain why
David DuPree: LeBron is 22 and has always played on the perimeter. He is developing some post moves, but that isn't where he is most effective. His game will improve each year. Don't forget that he has to do everything for that team and his supporting cast is the weakest of all the teams still playing. Also, as great as he is, he is still a work in progress. Give the young man a little time, please. Look at Jordan and Kobe. Look how long it took for them to find their way -- and when they did, they were older than LeBron and had a lot more help than he has.
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Leslie (Chicago, IL): Hi David. Did you enjoy the draft lottery? I think it's one of the best shows on TV with great anticipation. I don't think the lottery system needs to be changed at all and team management needs to do a better job of acquiring draft pics and signing free agents rather than depending on winning the lottery like Boston or Memphis. Look at the great job the Bulls and Jazz have done in making draft pics and signing free agents. While you have Boston trading thier draft pick last year for Sebastian Telfair and that pick could have been Brandon Roy. Thanks.
David DuPree: Hi, Leslie. You make some great points. The lottery is a quick fix and a crapshoot, and if that is your major hope for improvement, then you aren't going to be very successful. Personally, I think every team with a draft pick should be in the lottery. I just have a problem rewarding losing -- on any level.
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San Antonio, Tx: People talk about dynasty in basketball, what in your opinion consitutes an NBA Dynasty, give us some examples of past dynastys, and would the Spurs fall into that category, "if" they win another championship, thanks, Jay.
David DuPree: Hi, Jay. I define a dynasty as a team that wins at least three championships over a set period, and even when it doesn't win is always a contender. I think the Michael Jordan-led Bulls were a dynasty -- six titles in eight seasons is amazing. The Lakers, when they won three in a row with Shaq and Kobe, were a dynasty, and I think the Spurs could be the most interesting of all dynasties, winning in 1999, 2003 and 2005 and being a contender again with Duncan and Gregg Popovich as the mainstays. Even if they don't win this year, I think they have established themselves as a dynasty.
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SLC UT: DD, I know that the Draft Lottery picks the order of the first 14 teams, but how does the NBA determine the rest of the draft positions?
David DuPree: Actually, the draft lottery only determines the order for teams with the first three picks -- everything else is on winning percentage. That's why Memphis is fourth. The three teams that won in the lottery all pick ahead of them and then everyone else is ranked by winning percentage from worst to first. In other words, the worst the Grizzlies could have picked was fourth and the worst the Celtics could get was fifth, and that's what they both got. In short: Only the 14 nonplayoff teams are eligible for the draft's lottery, and after the first three picks are determined, teams 4-30 are based on reverse winning percentage.
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Marion, Iowa: Hello again DD. Love the chat. It's the best on the internet. Couple of observations about the "potential" finals matchup. There are several factors which may determine the outcome. 1. How does Tony Parker play against Billups? TP has been sucessfully outmatched by Chauncey in the past. Tony has matured this season and is more rounded than any other time in his career. I still see Billups handing it to him though. 2. The missing Wallace. Two years ago the two headed monster of Rasheed and Ben took it to Tim Duncan. TD has held in check for the middle games of the series in Detroit. With Ben Wallace out in Chicago I think the Pistons are going to sorely miss his defensive prescence on Duncan. Webber is no match for TD and I think the Spurs centers of Oberto and Elson will nearly match Webber and McDyess. 3. Flip has never won a championship. He made an interesting comment a few weeks ago that the team "kind of coaches itself" with all of the veteran leadership on the squad. That is true to a point but I just don't see Flip having what it takes to get by Popovich. I see the Spurs winning it in either 6 or 7 games. Curious what you think? Best regards, JB
David DuPree: JB: Thanks for the kind words. I appreciate the support. ... You certainly have a Spurs-Pistons Finals broken down. As for Chauncey Billups and Tony Parker, Bruce Bowen would probably guard Chauncey Billups to spare Parker that, and I think Parker would be fine on offense because of his quickness. Look at how well Daniel Gibson is doing, and he is in the Parker mold. ... No team coaches itself. The Spurs have won two championships in the past five seasons with basically the same veteran team, and Popovich coaches the heck out of them. I like Flip Saunders as a coach, but he doesn't have the attention or the respect of his team that Popovich has.
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David DuPree: Mike Conley Jr. or Joakim Noah.
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NBA FAN: Dubba D! I love the NBA, but lately the Playoffs have been devastating. They are too long. Has the league thought about going to a best of 5 series instead of 7?
David DuPree: The playoffs are indeed much too long, but because of television for one reason, there is no way they will go to a best-of-five format. They used to play best-of-three series in the first round and did away with that, and best-of-five in an early round didn't last long either when they tried that. The best-of-seven format in every round is here to stay.
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San Antonio, TX: David, it seems that Deron Williams is embarrassing Bruce Bowen and having his way with him. Is he that good and what does Bowen need to do to stop or at least slow down Utahs playmaker?
David DuPree: After Steve Nash, Deron Williams might be the second best point guard in the league. He isn't embarrassing Bruce Bowen, he's just playing very well. He's strong, quick, smart, creative, sees the entire court and everything. Bowen is able to force him where he wants him to go, but then Williams is just making plays. All Bowen can do is try to stay in front of him and force him toward help. I don't think any other Spur can do a better job on him. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B'KLYN-in-PUERTO RICO: hey DD, tha saga continues for KOBE, now he wants to bo traded, what is up with this SPOILED KID. first he is drafted by charlotte an d he doesn't want 2 play 4 them, then gets SHAQ out of LA because he wanted it 2 be his team, now he can't handle the situation in LA. grow KID, that what u get 4 being GREEDY. if i,m LA i won't trade him till he can opt out of his contract. what your take.
David DuPree: Kobe is frustrated and feels betrayed for the way the Lakers have declined. He just wants to win. And one more time: He isn't the reason Shaq is out of Los Angeles. Owner Jerry Buss didn't want to invest the money in a declining Shaq, and I think that was the right decision. Kobe has a right to speak his mind, as he certainly has given his all to that team. Sure, he might be a little spoiled, but he puts his money where his mouth is and you can't question his desire to win or his competitive spirit.
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Orem, UT: David, I am horrified beyond belief when I see that Derek Fisher was called for a technical FOR GINOBLI RUNNING INTO HIM FROM BEHIND! It just makes me sick when I hear people say that Fisher should have kept his composure. How is standing there and having someone run into you and then jump away from you losing your composure. This needs to be addressed. Please let me know your take.
David DuPree: Believe me, I am neutral and Derek Fisher is one of my favorite players, but he was the culprit here. He initiated the contact and did lose his composure. It happens. I have learned over the years to ignore the officials and just play. You have to assume they are honest and doing the best they can, and devote yourself to just doing your job on the court. Any other attitude and it affects a player's focus and mental approach.
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Arnold (DC): Where does Ron Artest plays next season !
David DuPree: I think Ron Artest will somehow end up with the Lakers.
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David, Grove, OK: I've been hearing about Brazil's Luis Scola for a couple of years now. How good is he and when are the Spurs are going to finally bring him over.
David DuPree: Luis Scola is from Brazil and could be the best big man in Europe. A buyout of his contract is the only thing keeping him away from the Spurs, but there is a decent chance he will be with them next season. He plays a lot like Fabricio Oberto. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Winnipeg, MB: I've been a quiet reader of your chats for a long time. Those comments made about you last week, nothing is further from truth... Keep doing the great work! Slaven
David DuPree: Thank you, Slaven.
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Paul Tinley Park, IL: Well, what do you think of Kobe to Chicago? It looks like he is going somewhere.
David DuPree: I still think Kobe and the Lakers will work things out, but if not, Chicago goes to the head of the class because they have so much they can offer in return. They just need to decide if they want to go after Kevin Garnett or Kobe. Garnett might be a better fit for them.
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la, ca: do the bulls let Nocioni go? They have alot of guys to pay, and he will go for the MLE or more, right? Who could the spurs get to take over the SF position from aging Bowen?
David DuPree: Andres Nocioni is a pretty valuable guy, and I don't think they want to let him go. I can't think of a better person suited for the Spurs than him. Can you?
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la, ca: is parker and manu = kobe in trade? Laker's get youth and a great player in Manu for another couple of years. Spurs get an unstoppable tandem. NO way the Spurs do this, but is it equal?
David DuPree: I think it is pretty equal but of course isn't going to happen.
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la, ca: People were talking of Duncan's decline last year, but he looks to still be at his best this year. He is less athletic with age, but smarter and a better passer. How much longer will he be this effective, and do you see Parker becoming the primary scorer for the Spurs in the future? Which of the Spurs oversea's guys will actually join them? Scola is getting old and seems to be too redundant with Duncan's game...
David DuPree: Duncan has lost a little, but only a very little and is still much in his prime. I'd say he has three or four more years at this level, which is good enough to make the Spurs a contender every year. I see Manu being more of the big scorer without Duncan than Parker. Scola is only 27 or 28, and I see nothing wrong with being redundant with Duncan. He and David Robinson made that work pretty well, I think.
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(Quest) Mt Vernon, NY: There appears to be some discord with the Suns if you believe everything you read. Any truth to Marion feeling under-appreciated and Amare being chewed out by Nash for whining all the time or is this just normal guy/teammate stuff?
David DuPree: A lot of it is normal stuff. Steve Nash is being a leader and trying to get Amare Stoudemire to the next level and help him with his mental toughness. If Shawn Marion feels underappreciated, he's crazy. They are always saying how valuable he is; he gets the minutes and he gets max money.
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Rob - Denver, CO: Hey Dave, Love reading your chat and totally agree with Jeff from Belgium! I have been a life long fan of the Spurs GO! SPURS! GO! I have been upset over their new lable of being a "dirty" team. Do you truly believe they are dirty or just a tough grind it out team? I would love your perspective.
David DuPree: The Spurs play hard, they challenge shots and they don't back down. Basketball is an aggressive game, and calling a team dirty because it plays to win is ridiculous.
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san antonio texas: ok DD agree or disagree, best teams in order, Russels celtics, west's Lakers, Bird's 86 Celtics, Magics 87 Lakers, Michaels bulls, isiahs pistons , Duncan's Spurs , Shaq's lakers , Ervings 76ers, akeems rockets
David DuPree: Hmmm. My order would be Russell's Celtics, Erving's 76ers, Magic's Lakers, Bird's Celtics, Duncan's Spurs, West's Lakers, Isiah's Pistons and Hakeem's Rockets.
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Jamey in San Antonio: Good day sir, So are the Spurs your favorite to win it all?
David DuPree: Hi, Jamey. I'd say it's theirs to lose.
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Washington, DC: Hello David, Kobe just said on the Stephen A Smith radio show minutes ago that he wanted to be traded and under no circumstances would he want to come back and play with LA!! If you were the Wizards would you give up Gilbert Arenas and a #1 for Kobe?
David DuPree: Maybe I'm being naive about this, but I still think they will be able to work something out and Kobe will stay. If not, a lot of teams will be in the running for him, and it will take a lot more than Gilbert Arenas and a nonlottery No. 1 to get him. I just don't think the Wizards have enough to offer to be a real contender in any Kobe sweepstakes.
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Arnold (DC): What will Miami Heat do in the offseason !
David DuPree: The Heat need to decide if they are going to move Wade to point guard. If not, they need to go out and get one. Also, Shaq isn't the dominant player he once was; he needs better players around him to continue to be effective. I think this team is in for a major overhaul because it is not a contender as is.
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Gary from orem, Utah: hey dave i hope you'll include my message here this week thanks; first off i wanted to say i also, had already predicted that my spurs would beat utah in five games , just like you predicted too. but i also, had predicted my spurs over the suns in six, and it too happened that same way too. i had noticed that before the sun-spurs series you had the suns in seven, it's all good we're all human and can be wrong, i know. anyways i was gonna say , told ya so;; one last thing'' i have to live here in utah and there is actually a fair number of idiotic mentally distrurbed fans who have to throw thing onto the court, like that carmex, that hit bruce, and the beer, that got tony a little wet on his jersey. i hate poor losers, like alot of these jazz fans, and suns fans before them have been , all the trash talk jealousy. all this does is enforce that they know that the spurs are the best. one last thing dave; in one of your earlier messages, you said , if the pistons get to the finals against, my spurs, you'd pick the spurs in six, i definitely agree with that prediction. but if some how the cavs get lucky and get there, i say the spurs over the cavs in five. what do you say? talk to me.
David DuPree: Hi, Gary. I was indeed wrong in predicting the Suns over the Spurs. I thought they had what it took, but I was obviously wrong. If the Cavs do get by the Pistons, I agree with the Spurs in five against them in the Finals. This looks like San Antonio's year. They are the most balanced team and they look like the most mentally tough as well. They have three stars and a host of role players who know and accept their roles, and they have a proven system that everyone believes in.
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houst tx: dave , i have seen a lot of talk of duncan's place among big men... where do you rank him in the group of: Russel, Wilt, kareem, Shaq, Robinson, Dream, Ewing,Malone and Barkley? I am ignoring the fact that he is listed as PF on some game sheets and as C on others...he is in the paint in crunch time period. I taking into consideration team leadership abilities, Number of Titles, MVP's, and Defensive skills. And i am considering a body of work of at least 10 years; to level out any single standout season I have it as such: Russell Wilt Duncan Kareem Shaq Dream Robinson Malone Barkely yours?
David DuPree: In the order of your initial list, I put him right after Kareem.
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houston, tx: Should the Suns trade Marion for Artest? Marion vs Artest? Artest can create his own shot. MArion cant Artest better role player MArion wants to be the lead option Artest better rebounder Artest better defensive player Artest better shooter. That simple? Marion over-achiever? Artest Underachiever?
David DuPree: Don't do it. Artest can create a lot of headaches for his own team.
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Tom Perrone ( Crystal Lake, Illinois ): Hi, David: I wonder if a more significant point is being missed in the controversy between Kobe Bryant and the Lakers. With Bryant's salary, and, more importantly, the lack of players with considerable trade value on the Lakers' Roster, doesn't Bryant's hope that Jerry West serve as general manager seem almost insignificant? Whether Mitch Kupchak or West controls the team, I do not see how the Lakers will return as a serious championship threat in the next five to six years, which would mark Bryant's career prime. Ironically, the Lakers' best option may be trading Bryant, because, with him, and the dearth of talent surrounding him with no immediate and significant improvement feasible, they will not contend soon. Thank you.
David DuPree: Hey, Tom. You certainly make a lot of relevant points, and I'm sure that's what the Lakers are thinking, too.
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Dallas, Tx: I think the team that could really use Kobe is Dallas if they can get him without giving up Dirk. Dirk needs a #1 guy to play with to take the big shot s and a tough perimeter defender. Is there any package they could put together to get it done?
David DuPree: Josh Howard, Jason Terry and DeSagana Diop and a couple of draft picks might get it done.
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SLC UT: I was at the last Jazz game and was really disappointed with the officiating. It seemed to me that Steve Javey had an agenda to make sure the Spurs won. I don't know if it was the fan in me or not, but how come we never hear about any reprocussions when referees blow calls. Plus the stripes were very "T" happy, did you see the same game or did I just have my Jazz goggles on?
David DuPree: I think you have your Jazz goggles on, but that's OK. Believe me, there are repercussions when refs consistently make poor calls. They aren't made public because that serves no purpose. NBA officials are the most reviewed group of people in any sport. They have to give written reports on every game after the game, explain controversial calls and all sorts of stuff. They also get rated, and the top-rated ones work the most games as well as the important games.
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SAn Antonio, TX: Hey dd, hope you're doing well , my man. I read your transcripts every wednesday......Good stuff. First off, I have to vent a little. For the last couple of years , you have always picked my beloved SPURS to win the title, but I think this year was the first time you picked Phoenix to win it all.................it's okay dave, we all make mistakes. Then to top things off, charles barkley, a big time SPURS fan, jumps off our bandwagon, and onto UTAH's bandwagon............. another disturbing trend. The bottom line this year ,dave, is that TIM DUNCAN is healthy. Everyone forgot that TD was walking around with a limp all last year......not this year. So anyhow, now who's your pick......detroit.....or san antonio? take care DD.
David DuPree: I felt a little guilty picking the Spurs to win every year, and I really thought the NBA was ready for a high-scoring team to win it all. Forgive me. I am back on the Spurs bandwagon.
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: Phila, Pa: Hi, Dave I pray you and your family are doing well. Keep up the great work on the chats, you do an outstanding job. The criticism of Lebron James is insane. The guy is outstanding and plays intelligent basketball. Donyell Marshall should have received criticism and not Lebron for missing a wide-open shot. It was the correct play by Lebron. Larry Hughes missed an easy follow-up in the next game and he should have received criticism for that. Donyell and Larry are making millions of dollars and should be able to make those plays. Everyone complains about Kobe and Iverson being ball hogs and then you have guys like Lebron, Garnett and Duncan being criticized for not being selfish. Make up your mind people.
David DuPree: I agree with everything you say about LeBron. It is still a team game and a right way to play it. Obviously, you understand that. I wish more people did, and a lot of them are in my profession.
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Comment from David DuPree: They are telling me my time is up. So sorry I couldn't get to more of you. Thanks for joining me, and I hope to see you again next week. That will be the eve of the NBA Finals, so there will be plenty to talk about. I'm sure the Kobe rumors will really be flying about by then - DuPree