Offseason grades: Western Conference

You would think the guy could've gotten Fabricio's name right. :rolleyes

Offseason grades: Western Conference
Aug. 6, 2005
By Tony Mejia
CBS SportsLine.com Staff Writer
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/sport...n8710502.shtml

Dallas
Though it's still a few weeks away, the Mavericks are all but certain to part ways with longtime star Michael Finley, who has lost a step and is no longer worth the extra $50-plus million in luxury tax money Mark Cuban would have to pay to keep him. It's a difficult decision, but with Marquis Daniels ready to take on an expanded role, Dallas shouldn't feel too great a sting. The team also signed summer league star Josh Powell to its 15-man roster. The former N.C. State standout could be a steal if he continues to board well and flash a nice touch from the perimeter. There are also rumors the team could be interested in bringing back Nick Van Exel, recently let go by Portland. Grade: B.


Denver
After being the most dominant regular season team during last season's latter half, the Nuggets seemingly lacked only one major piece to truly contend: a shooting guard. So far, they've come up empty. There was reportedly a deal on the table that would send Nene to Sacramento for Cuttino Mobley, but that never transpired and Mobley subsequently signed with the Clippers. The latest rumors are that the team is holding out for Michael Finley, which is why they have not signed fellow free agents DerMarr Johnson and Greg Buckner. At this point, the only shooting guards on the roster are Voshon Lenard and recent draftee Julius Hodge. That's not going to get it done. Grade: C-.


Golden State
The Warriors made their big splash just prior to last year's trading deadline, scoring Baron Davis and taking off from there. As a result, expectations are high entering this season, particularly since the team addressed its need for athleticism up front through draft acquisitions Ike Diogu and Chris Taft. Golden State is still extremely young, but it has to be excited about the nucleus it has built. Grade: B.

Houston
It got lost in the scheme of the blockbuster five-team, 13-player deal, but the Rockets' acquisition of Stromile Swift could go down as one of the stronger moves of this offseason. When Juwan Howard went down prior to last season's playoffs, the Rockets lost that big forward presence required next to Yao Ming. In Swift, they've gotten an athletic bodyguard who can rebound and block shots and play enforcer, providing the final piece to the puzzle in order to escape the first round of the playoffs. First-round pick Luther Head struggled in summer league play and may find himself deep on the team's bench. Grade: B.


L.A. Clippers
The same-ol' Clippers syndrome surfaced when Bobby Simmons skipped town, but you have to give the team credit for spending some money and filling the void with free agent Cuttino Mobley. He'll undoubtedly force Corey Maggette to the small forward spot, allowing them to keep their strength on the wing intact. L.A. also spent money to keep center Zelkjo Rebraca, who does a nice job backing up Chris Kaman. There have been rumors that the team will attempt to move disgruntled forward Chris Wilcox while also shelling out money to retain point guard Marko Jaric to help assist in Shaun Livingston's development. Grade: B.

L.A. Lakers
Obviously, missing the playoffs didn't sit well with owner Jerry Buss and the rest of the Lakers as drastic moves were made. First and foremost was the return of Phil Jackson, given a three-year, $30 million contract to help come clean up the team's mess. His relationship with Kobe Bryant is a fractured one and clearly will be the subject of much scrutiny throughout the offseason. The team also gambled on 17-year-old 7-footer Andrew Bynum, who held his own in summer league play and should see some action as a rookie. Drafting him at No. 10 was a risk, but GM Mitch Kupchak felt the team wouldn't be in a position to get a player of his size and potential again anytime soon. We'll see about that. The Lakers also shipped out Caron Butler in exchange for another gamble in Kwame Brown, hoping that unlike what he displayed in his stint with Washington, he'll mature and commit to making himself better. Clearly, the team is taking stabs in the dark and hoping to be fortunate. Grade: C.


Memphis
After falling flat in the first round of last year's playoffs and carrying around a roster filled with gripers for much of the season, the Grizz decided it was time for an overhaul. Troubled Bonzi Wells and Jason Williams were shipped out in separate deals, as was the talented but injury-prone James Posey. If nothing else, acquisitions Bobby Jackson and Eddie Jones, consummate professionals, will make for a more harmonious locker room. Damon Stoudamire was also brought on board to help handle the point, an indication that Earl Watson's days might be numbered. The loss of Stromile Swift is eased by the superb performances put forth by Hakim Warrick and undrafted free agent Lawrence Roberts in summer league. Both could find their way into Mike Fratello's rotation. Grade: B.


Minnesota
Outside of choosing Dwane Casey to coach the team instead of early favorite P.J. Carlesimo, the Wolves haven't really done much this offseason. What has gone down hasn't been positive. Eddie Griffin was ruled to have violated his probation and spent 15 days in prison, but is expected to soon be re-signed. Latrell Sprewell, an unrestricted free agent, likely won't be. Fred Hoiberg had to undergo surgery to remove an aortic aneurysm and isn't being counted on to return next season. That puts even more pressure on top pick Rashad McCants to hit the ground running, and it didn't help that he missed all of summer league action due to a strained right groin. Grade: C-.


New Orleans
There was talk that the Hornets were going to deal Jamaal Magloire to Toronto on draft night, but an agreement couldn't be reached. As a result, the team's rebuilding project will continue with their big man in the middle in place, and an abundance of youth surrounding him. Top pick Chris Paul should energize the team, and will likely be handed the reins to the offense immediately despite some rocky shooting over the summer. Former first round pick Kirk Snyder, who butted heads with Utah's coaching staff, will join the rotation, as will young small forward Rasual Butler, acquired from the Heat. Arvydas Macijauskas, a Lithuanian who has been playing in Europe since he was 16, was also brought on board, giving the team another competent shooter. All in all, it was a busy offseason for New Orleans, but it's unlikely to pay immediate dividends. Grade: B-.


Phoenix
Quentin Richardson is gone, and Joe Johnson -- grudgingly -- will likely be next. The fun-and-gun days in Phoenix are over. The team will be forced to take a slightly more conventional approach with Kurt Thomas helping Amare Stoudemire in the post. Wings Raja Bell and Boris Diaw are most certainly a downgrade from Johnson and Richardson, and the team struck out in reported attempts to sign Lithuanians Arvydas Macijauskas and Sarunas Jasikevicius. Undoubtedly, the Suns will be weaker bunch. Grade: C-.


Portland
The Blazers scored a major coup in prying Nate McMillan from Seattle, and thus, their rebuilding project has some direction. Clearly, it will be a long process they plan on being patient with, as they handed McMillan major security and brought another prep star on board in highly touted shooter Martell Webster. Veterans Nick Van Exel and Derek Anderson were cut, while Damon Stoudamire was allowed to walk, leaving the point guard duties to Sebastian Telfair. The Blazers signed Juan Dixon and Charles Smith to deals to play alongside Telfair, and are committed to cultivating their young talent before spending money for free agent help. Grade: B-.


Sacramento
Cuttino Mobley never fit in with the Kings, so it was no surprise he didn't return. Instead of promoting Maurice Evans to fill the void, the team traded fan favorite Bobby Jackson in order to acquire Bonzi Wells. Wells is an effective scorer, yet temperamental, so if he's going well and receiving consistent minutes, he should be a valuable pickup. If he struggles and loses minutes, there will be problems. Ironically, first round pick Francisco Garcia may be the guy who takes them from him, as the Kings expect him to contribute right away. Negotiations with free agents Evans and Darius Songaila are ongoing, and the team would be best served keeping both. Jason Hart was acquired to fill Jackson's role as Mike Bibby's backup. Grade: C.


San Antonio
You wouldn't expect too much tinkering to be done with a championship team, and indeed the Spurs simply concentrated on keeping everything intact. Robert Horry, despite several suitors, returned for a run at a seventh ring. Their next move might be to add another point guard given Beno Udrih's struggles in last year's Finals, with the word being that there is interest in Nick Van Exel among others. San Antonio also signed another Argentine in Patricio Oberto, a 6-11 forward, likely ending hopes that fellow countryman Luis Scola will play there next year, if at all. Grade: B.


Seattle
The SuperSonics lost their coach, their center and one of their top reserves in a forgettable offseason that may cause a downward spiral after last season's grand revival. Nate McMillan, "Mr. Sonic," was in fact spurned by the organization, low-balled and disrespected, forcing him to flee to Portland. Jerome James keyed last year's playoff run, and it would be tragic for Seattle if after years of waiting for him to mature, he finally reaches his potential in New York. Antonio Daniels, a veteran influence and fine defender, left for Washington. The Sonics are now in recovery mode, elevating assistant Bob Weiss to try to keep some chemistry in place and signing Rick Brunson to step into Daniels' role. The greatest positive of this offseason was keeping superstar Ray Allen in place with a five-year, $85 million extension. At least they'll have their main cog to build around as they look for new pieces to replace the departing ones. Grade: C-.


Utah
Seeking a point guard to finally replace John Stockton where so many have already tried, Utah traded up for the opportunity to draft Deron Williams, hoping the playmaking and defense that made him one of the college game's greats translates to the pros. His arrival has the team thinking playoffs, which is why, in a puzzling move, the Jazz brought Greg Ostertag back in a package that featured one of last year's first round picks, Kirk Snyder, and once-promising but oft-injured Raul Lopez and Curtis Borchardt. The team is interested in winning now and feels the veteran big man can platoon with Mehmet Okur in the middle and be an asset come playoff time. Losing Raja Bell is a big blow, and the team is reportedly interested in adding a couple more perimeter threats to balance out its backcourt rotation. Grade: B-.

I didnt know Fabricio Oberto changed his first name to Patricio

lol lol lol lol lol

Patricio? :lmao

Call him Patti.
:lmao

What an idiot. I know he feels really stupid as he should.

Anyways, that's it?

We had an A- offseason. We accomplished our goals resigning, and adding. Trades can always happen later.

There have been lots of off-season moves, but it's far from over.

...Slightly pre-mature for Mr. Mejia to do grades, don't you think, with the next wave of moves coming from lux-tax amnesty waivers?

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Originally Posted by Solid D

There have been lots of off-season moves, but it's far from over.

...Slightly pre-mature for Mr. Mejia to do grades, don't you think, with the next wave of moves coming from lux-tax amnesty waivers?

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Especially when he obviously can't be bothered to get a player's name right or even have someone fact check for him.

We only did half a grade better than a team that traded away its youth for Greg Ostertag?

Half of the Eastern teams are going to get an "A," and I do wonder if that means the East is getting better to the point that the power has shifted.

The 3 best teams are easily SA, Det. and Mia, so the question is, are the rest of the top 16 (true playoff calibre teams) mostly eastern teams now?

With playoff teams like Sac, phoenix and the grizz getting weaker, I think next year we have to say the West is no longer demonstrably stronger, if at all.

if Dallas, Houston and Denver continue to get better, that could change my mind again.

I just hope that Patericko starts next season.

:smokin

I guess it could be worse. He could have called him Patricia. :lol

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Memphis
After falling flat in the first round of last year's playoffs and carrying around a roster filled with gripers for much of the season, the Grizz decided it was time for an overhaul. Troubled Bonzi Wells and Jason Williams were shipped out in separate deals, as was the talented but injury-prone James Posey. If nothing else, acquisitions Bobby Jackson and Eddie Jones, consummate professionals, will make for a more harmonious locker room. Damon Stoudamire was also brought on board to help handle the point, an indication that Earl Watson's days might be numbered. The loss of Stromile Swift is eased by the superb performances put forth by Hakim Warrick and undrafted free agent Lawrence Roberts in summer league. Both could find their way into Mike Fratello's rotation. Grade: B.

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Actually, he was drafted 55th overall, not that a pick taken that late will ever amount to anything in the NBA.

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Originally Posted by Guru of Nothing

Actually, he was drafted 55th overall, not that a pick taken that late will ever amount to anything in the NBA.

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I totally agree.

Sincerely,
Manu Ginobili

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Originally Posted by Solid D

There have been lots of off-season moves, but it's far from over.

...Slightly pre-mature for Mr. Mejia to do grades, don't you think, with the next wave of moves coming from lux-tax amnesty waivers?

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That's exactly what I was thinking. Shit, the offseason has pretty much not even started yet.

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not that a pick taken that late will ever amount to anything in the NBA.

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Originally Posted by Shawn Michaels

I think the grade is on point


If we pick up Finely or Van Exel we get a A for the summer

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I rather have Van Exel. He is a scorer and would be instant offense off the bench.

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Originally Posted by Guru of Nothing

Actually, he was drafted 55th overall, not that a pick taken that late will ever amount to anything in the NBA.

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http://www.bayoubrasil.com/i_restaur...u_ginobili.jpg
"Pleased to meet you", says a 58th draft pick.......

B is too high. The spurs have done almost nothing and are counting on the other teams not improving enough. Staying pat is conservative. The spurs are watching the Heat with their bold moves pass them by.

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Originally Posted by rascal

B is too high. The spurs have done almost nothing and are counting on the other teams not improving enough. Staying pat is conservative. The spurs are watching the Heat with their bold moves pass them by.

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I totally agree with you! Maybe a little bias with the grade. The Spurs are not getting any younger, Signing two players over 30, one with no NBA experience can not be graded as a B. Unless one thinks this is just Horry's grade. Let'sl wait and see if the Spurs bring in the needed SF and PG before we put a grade to this off season.

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Originally Posted by 2pac

I totally agree.

Sincerely,
Manu Ginobili

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http://www.ellison.com/images/produc...Hook_13292.gif

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Originally Posted by Aggie Hoopsfan

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http://www.thaifishingguide.com/imag...iagra_line.jpg

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Originally Posted by ObiwanGinobili

http://www.bayoubrasil.com/i_restaur...u_ginobili.jpg
"Pleased to meet you", says a 58th draft pick.......

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http://www.fish-tails.net/threads/up...ider%20pic.jpg

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Originally Posted by rascal

B is too high. The spurs have done almost nothing and are counting on the other teams not improving enough. Staying pat is conservative. The spurs are watching the Heat with their bold moves pass them by.

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heat moves will back fire
oneal 5 year deal
shaq and heat must have a buyout in mind after 2 or 3 year if not that move will hurt them big time in 4 years

getting walker
walker is a losser heat can have him

heat if healthy last year I think could have beat pistons
so they are making this moves and might not have to

walker is going to want his shots and how will that blend in with the team of miama

Way too early to give grades. It's those last few vets that you pick up at the end, when nobody's paying attention, that may end up being the biggest off-season moves.

Look at the '03 summer. The big aquisitions that made a splash were Hedo Turkoglu and Ron Mercer. Before that, all the attention was on Jason KIdd. But at the end, the Spurs picked up someone that nobody much wanted, and did it for cheap -- Robert Horry.

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Originally Posted by rascal

B is too high. The spurs have done almost nothing and are counting on the other teams not improving enough. Staying pat is conservative. The spurs are watching the Heat with their bold moves pass them by.

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Yeah, because rehauling a championship squad worked so well for us in 2000 and 2004.

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Originally Posted by spursfaninla

Half of the Eastern teams are going to get an "A," and I do wonder if that means the East is getting better to the point that the power has shifted.

The 3 best teams are easily SA, Det. and Mia, so the question is, are the rest of the top 16 (true playoff calibre teams) mostly eastern teams now?

With playoff teams like Sac, phoenix and the grizz getting weaker, I think next year we have to say the West is no longer demonstrably stronger, if at all.

if Dallas, Houston and Denver continue to get better, that could change my mind again.

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I think the East had so far to go with everyone below Detroit and Miami that it appears they're getting a lot better by bringing in some of the talent that has been in the Western conference.

remember how Tpups made this great big blockbuster trade and had a great year then exploded into nothing ness

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Originally Posted by Dex

Yeah, because rehauling a championship squad worked so well for us in 2000 and 2004.

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What rehauling? The spurs have done very little in changing the core of the team other than replacing Robinson who was finished anyways and S Jackson who they didn't want at his price and trading Rose.

They moved Parker and Manu into the starting positions( not considered rehauling you can't keep the same team forever), they made the meaningless Hedo trade acquired fa Rasho and Barry, traded Rose for Muhammed and filled some role player spots which happens every year anyways. They have done little in changing the core of the team the last couple of years.

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Originally Posted by rascal

They have done little in changing the core of the team the last couple of years.

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And they won a 3rd ring. What's wrong with that?

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Originally Posted by flash gordon

didn't PAT O'BERTO play for the Irish National Team?

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:lmao haha

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Originally Posted by rascal

What rehauling? The spurs have done very little in changing the core of the team other than replacing Robinson who was finished anyways and S Jackson who they didn't want at his price and trading Rose.

They moved Parker and Manu into the starting positions( not considered rehauling you can't keep the same team forever), they made the meaningless Hedo trade acquired fa Rasho and Barry, traded Rose for Muhammed and filled some role player spots which happens every year anyways. They have done little in changing the core of the team the last couple of years.

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The Spurs don't need to change the core players! They have them locked up until 2010! That means they have a realistic shot at five more championships! What needs to change is some of the role players. Youth with experience is a must in the next couple of years.

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Originally Posted by Kori Ellis

Call him Patti.
:lmao

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Better than Fatti. hehehe

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Originally Posted by rascal

They moved Parker and Manu into the starting positions( not considered rehauling you can't keep the same team forever), they made the meaningless Hedo trade acquired fa Rasho and Barry, traded Rose for Muhammed and filled some role player spots which happens every year anyways. They have done little in changing the core of the team the last couple of years.

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With a year under his belt, and the coaching staff understanding his capabilities better, I believe Barry will pay much bigger dividends this year than last.

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Originally Posted by Solid D

...Slightly pre-mature for Mr. Mejia to do grades, don't you think, with the next wave of moves coming from lux-tax amnesty waivers?

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Remember, he's just a writer. CBS tells him/them what and when.

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Originally Posted by Merlin

I rather have Van Exel. He is a scorer and would be instant offense off the bench.

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Just think having NVE and Barry in the backcourt at the same time with Duncan, Manu and Horry. Passing and shooting galore.

good read cheers spurs chick

Patricio

Thats fucked up.