2009-10 GM Survey Results: Predictions

[duncan228]

2009-10 GM Survey Results: Predictions

It was a busy offseason for the league's General Managers, but before they sat back and watched their players and coaches go to work, NBA.com asked the GMs to fill out our eighth annual GM Survey.

Can the Lakers repeat for the seventh time in their history, will the Celtics capture banner No. 18, or will Shaq help the King get his ring? Will LeBron James earn another MVP award, and if you were putting together an NBA franchise, is he the player you'd most like to start with?

Those are just a few of the 60 questions NBA general managers responded to. See how their opinions compare to yours and if they got it right a year ago.

General managers were not permitted to vote for their own team or personnel. Percentages are based on the pool of respondents to each question of the survey, rather than all 30 GMs. The NBA.com GM Survey was compiled by John Schuhmann.

Which team will win NBA Finals 2010?
1. Los Angeles Lakers 60.7%
2. Boston Celtics 17.9%
2. Cleveland Cavaliers 17.9%
4. San Antonio Spurs 3.6%
- Last year: Los Angeles Lakers 46.2%

Which team will win the Eastern Conference?
1. Boston Celtics 50.0%
2. Cleveland Cavaliers 42.9%
3. Orlando Magic 7.1%
- Last year: Boston Celtics 3.6%

Which team will win the Western Conference?
1. Los Angeles Lakers 75.9%
2. San Antonio Spurs 24.1%
- Last year: Boston Celtics 3.6%

Which team will win the Atlantic Division?
1. Boston Celtics 100%
- Last year: Boston Celtics 85.2%

Which team will win the Central Division?
1. Cleveland Cavaliers 96.6%
2. Detroit Pistons 3.4%
- Last year: Detroit Pistons 55.6%

Which team will win the Southeast Division?
1. Orlando Magic 92.6%
2. Washington Wizards 7.4%
- Last year: Orlando Magic 96.3%

Which team will win the Southwest Division?
1. San Antonio Spurs 89.7%
2. Dallas Mavericks 6.9%
3. New Orleans Hornets 3.4%
- Last year: New Orleans Hornets 37%

Which team will win the Northwest Division?
1. Portland Trail Blazers 42.9%
2. Denver Nuggets 39.3%
3. Utah Jazz 17.9%
- Last year: Utah Jazz 92.6%

Which team will win the Pacific Division?
1. Los Angeles Lakers 96.6%
2. Phoenix Suns 3.4%
- Last year: Los Angeles Lakers 100%

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2009-10 GM Survey Results: Player Predictions

Who will win the 2009-10 MVP?
1. LeBron James, Cleveland 69.0%
2. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 17.2%
3. Dwight Howard, Orlando 6.9%
Also receiving votes:
Tim Duncan, San Antonio; Dwyane Wade, Miami
- Last year: LeBron James 55.6%

If you were starting a franchise today and could sign any player in the NBA, who would it be?
1. LeBron James, Cleveland 78.6%
2. Dwight Howard, Orlando 14.3%
3. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 7.1%
- Last year: LeBron James 66.7%

Which player forces opposing coaches to make the most adjustments?
1. LeBron James, Cleveland 39.3%
2. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 23.2%
3. Dwight Howard, Orlando 14.3%
4. Chris Paul, New Orleans 12.5%
Also receiving votes:
Lamar Odom, L.A. Lakers; Shaquille O'Neal, Cleveland; Dwyane Wade, Miami
- Last year: Kobe Bryant 63.0%

Which player is most likely to have a breakout season in 2009-10?
1. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City 25.9%
2. Anthony Randolph, Golden State 14.8%
3. Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City 7.4%
3. Louis Williams, Philadelphia 7.4%
Also receiving votes:
LaMarcus Aldridge, Portland; Gilbert Arenas, Washington; Aaron Brooks, Houston; Jonny Flynn, Minnesota; Rudy Gay, Memphis; Greg Oden, Portland; Brandon Roy, Portland; Ramon Sessions, Minnesota; J.R. Smith, Denver; Rodney Stuckey, Detroit; Hakim Warrick, Milwaukee; Thaddeus Young, Philadelphia
- Last year: Andrew Bynum 18.5%

Who is the best point guard in the NBA?
1. Chris Paul, New Orleans 77.8%
2. Deron Williams, Utah 14.8%
3. Steve Nash, Phoenix 7.4%
- Last year: Chris Paul 88.9%

Who is the best shooting guard in the NBA?
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 89.7%
Also receiving votes:
Ray Allen, Boston; Brandon Roy, Portland; Dwyane Wade, Miami
- Last year: Kobe Bryant 92.6%

Who is the best small forward in the NBA?
1. LeBron James, Cleveland 96.6%
2. Carmelo Anthony, Denver 3.4%
- Last year: LeBron James 92.6%

Who is the best power forward in the NBA?
1. Tim Duncan, San Antonio 58.6%
2. Kevin Garnett, Boston 20.7%
3. Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas 10.3%
Also receiving votes:
Pau Gasol, L.A. Lakers; Dwight Howard, Orlando; Amare'e Stoudemire, Phoenix
- Last year: Tim Duncan 51.9%

Who is the best center in the NBA?
1. Dwight Howard, Orlando 82.1%
2. Tim Duncan, San Antonio 17.9%
- Last year: Dwight Howard 55.6%

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2009-10 GM Survey Results: Defense

Who is the best defensive player in the NBA?
1. Dwight Howard, Orlando 46.4%
2. Ron Artest, L.A. Lakers 17.9%
2. Kevin Garnett, Boston 17.9%
4. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 7.1%
Also receiving votes:
Trevor Ariza, Houston; Shane Battier, Houston; Rajon Rondo, Boston
- Last year: Kevin Garnett 44.4%

Who is the best perimeter defender in the NBA?
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 34.5%
2. Shane Battier, Houston 24.1%
3. Ron Artest, L.A. Lakers 20.7%
4. Rajon Rondo, Boston 6.9%
Also receiving votes:
Trevor Ariza, Houston; Dahntay Jones, Indiana; Luc Mbah a Moute, Milwaukee; John Salmons, Chicago
- Last year: Bruce Bowen 44.4%

Who is the best interior defender in the NBA?
1. Dwight Howard, Orlando 64.3%
2. Kevin Garnett, Boston 32.1%
3. Yao Ming, Houston 3.6%
- Last year: Kevin Garnett 40.7%

Who is the best on-the-ball defender in the NBA?
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 25.0%
1. Rajon Rondo, Boston 25.0%
3. Ron Artest, L.A. Lakers 17.9%
4. Shane Battier, Houston 10.7%
4. Chris Paul, New Orleans 10.7%
6. Raja Bell, Charlotte 7.1%
7. John Salmons, Chicago 3.6%
- Last year: Kobe Bryant 26.9%

Which player best defends the passing lanes in the NBA?
1. Chris Paul, New Orleans 25.0%
2. Trevor Ariza, Houston 21.4%
3. Dwyane Wade, Miami 14.3%
4. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 10.7%
5. Manu Ginobili, San Antonio 7.1%
5. LeBron James, Cleveland 7.1%
Also receiving votes:
Mario Chalmers, Miami; Allen Iverson, Memphis; Kevin Martin, Sacramento; Rajon Rondo, Boston
- Last year: Allen Iverson 26.9%

Which is the best defensive team in the NBA?
1. Boston 60.7%
2. San Antonio 32.1%
3. L.A. Lakers 7.1%
- Last year: NA

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2009-10 GM Survey Results: Offseason Moves

Which team made the best overall moves?
1. San Antonio 71.2%
2. Orlando 17.3%
Also receiving votes:
Cleveland, Toronto, Washington
- Last year: Philadelphia 51.9%

Which one player acquisition will make the biggest impact?
1. Vince Carter, Orlando 25.0%
2. Ron Artest, L.A. Lakers 14.3%
2. Richard Jefferson, San Antonio 14.3%
2. Shaquille O'Neal, Cleveland 14.3%
2. Rasheed Wallace, Boston 14.3%
6. Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers 7.1%
Also receiving votes:
Randy Foye & Mike Miller, Washington; Shawn Marion, Dallas; Emeka Okafor, New Orleans
- Last year: Elton Brand 66.7%

What was the most underrated player acquisition?
1. Anthony Parker, Cleveland 14.3%
2. Antonio McDyess, San Antonio 10.7%
2. Rasheed Wallace, Boston 10.7%
4. Trevor Ariza, Houston 7.1%
4. Brandon Bass, Orlando 7.1%
4. Shawn Marion, Dallas 7.1%
4. Andre Miller, Portland 7.1%
4. Mike Miller, Washington 7.1%
Also receiving votes:
Ryan Anderson, Orlando; Vince Carter, Orlando; Jamal Crawford, Atlanta; Marquis Daniels, Boston; Ben Gordon, Detroit; Richard Jefferson, San Antonio; Lamar Odom, L.A. Lakers; Shaquille O'Neal, Cleveland
- Last year: James Posey 22.2%

Which team will be most improved in 2009-10?
1. Washington 48.3%
2. L.A. Clippers 17.2%
3. Oklahoma City 13.8%
4. Toronto 6.9%
Also receiving votes:
Boston, Memphis, Minnesota, San Antonio
- Last year: Miami, Portland 25.9%

What was the most surprising move of the offseason?
1. Ron Artest signing with the Lakers 19.2%
2. Vince Carter traded to Orlando 15.4%
2. Allen Iverson signing with Memphis 15.4%
2. Shaquille O'Neal traded to Cleveland 15.4%
5. Orlando matching Martin Gorcat offer sheet 7.7%
5. Richard Jefferson traded to San Antonio 7.7%
5. Zach Randolph traded to Memphis 7.7%
Also receiving votes:
Minnesota drafting both Ricky Rubio and Jonny Flynn; Ramon Sessions signing with Minnesota; Hedo Turkoglu sign-and-trade to Toronto
- Last year: Elton Brand signing with Philadelphia 30.0%

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2009-10 GM Survey Results: Coaches

Who is the best head coach in the NBA?
1. Phil Jackson, L.A. Lakers 37.0%
2. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio 33.3%
3. Jerry Sloan, Utah 18.5%
Also receiving votes:
Rick Adelman, Houston; Larry Brown, Charlotte; Stan Van Gundy, Orlando
- Last year: Gregg Popovich 53.8%

Which head coach is the best manager/motivator of people?
1. Phil Jackson, L.A. Lakers 48.1%
2. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio 29.6%
3. Doc Rivers, Boston 14.8%
Also receiving votes:
Rick Adelman, Houston; Nate McMillan, Portland
- Last year: Phil Jackson 44.0%

Which head coach makes the best in-game adjustments?
1. Larry Brown, Charlotte 34.6%
2. Phil Jackson, L.A. Lakers 23.1%
2. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio 23.1%
Also receiving votes:
Don Nelson, Golden State; Doc Rivers, Boston; Jerry Sloan, Utah; Erik Spoelstra, Miami; Stan Van Gundy, Orlando
- Last year: Gregg Popovich 28.0%

Which head coach is the best in the last two minutes of a close game?
1. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio 37.0%
2. Larry Brown, Charlotte 22.2%
3. Stan Van Gundy, Orlando 11.1%
4. Phil Jackson, L.A. Lakers 7.4%
4. Scott Skiles, Milwaukee 7.4%
4. Jerry Sloan, Utah 7.4%
Also receiving votes:
George Karl, Denver; Doc Rivers, Boston
- Last year: Gregg Popovich 45.8%

Which head coach runs the best offense?
1. Phil Jackson, L.A. Lakers 26.9%
2. Mike D'Antoni, New York 23.1%
3. Stan Van Gundy, Orlando 15.4%
4. Jerry Sloan, Utah 11.5%
5. Don Nelson, Golden State 7.7%
Also receiving votes:
Rick Adelman, Houston; Larry Brown, Charlotte; George Karl, Denver; Flip Saunders, Washington
- Last year: Mike D'Antoni 53.8%

Which head coach has the best defensive schemes?
1. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio 59.3%
2. Doc Rivers, Boston 18.5%
3. Larry Brown, Charlotte 7.4%
Also receiving votes:
Mike Brown, Cleveland; Scott Skiles, Milwaukee; Jerry Sloan, Utah; Stan Van Gundy, Orlando
- Last year: Gregg Popovich 50.0%

Who is the best assistant coach in the NBA?
1. Tom Thibodeau, Boston 38.0%
2. Phil Johnson, Utah 12.0%
3. Mike Budenholzer, San Antonio 8.0%
Also receiving votes:
Ron Adams, Oklahoma City; Dwane Casey, Dallas; Maurice Cheeks, Oklahoma City; Tyrone Corbin, Utah; Jim Eyen, Sacramento; Tim Grgurich, Denver; Frank Hamblen, L.A. Lakers; Brian Hill, Detroit; Brian Shaw, L.A. Lakers; Terry Stotts, Dallas; Randy Wittman, Washington
- Last year: Tom Thibodeau 41.7%

Which active player will make the best head coach someday?
1. Derek Fisher, L.A. Lakers 28.0%
2. Lindsey Hunter, Chicago 20.0%
3. Chauncey Billups, Denver 12.0%
4. Ray Allen, Boston 8.0%
4. Shane Battier, Houston 8.0%
Also receiving votes:
Grant Hill, Phoenix; Jason Kidd, Dallas; Steve Nash, Phoenix; Kevin Ollie, Oklahoma City; Chris Paul, New Orleans; Dwyane Wade, Miami
- Last year: Eric Snow 24.0%

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2009-10 GM Survey Results: Rookies/International Predictions

Who will win the Rookie of the Year?
1. Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers 79.3%
2. Jonny Flynn, Minnesota 10.3%
3. Tyreke Evans, Sacramento 6.9%
4. Stephen Curry, Golden State 3.4%
- Last year: Michael Beasley 48.1%

Which rookie will be the best player in five years?
1. Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers 65.5%
2. Tyreke Evans, Sacramento 10.3%
2. James Harden, Oklahoma City 10.3%
4. Stephen Curry, Golden State 6.9%
Also receiving votes:
Jonny Flynn, Minnesota; Ricky Rubio, Minnesota
- Last year: Greg Oden 30.8%

Which rookie is the most athletic?
1. Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers 42.9%
2. DeMar DeRozan, Toronto 32.1%
3. Terrence Williams, New Jersey 10.7%
4. Brandon Jennings, Milwaukee 7.1%
Also receiving votes:
DeMarre Carroll, Memphis; Jonny Flynn, Minnesota
- Last year: Derrick Rose 33.3%

Which rookie is most likely to be a "sleeper" success?
1. James Harden, Oklahoma City 11.1%
1. Brandon Jennings, Milwaukee 11.1%
1. Ty Lawson, Denver 11.1%
4. Rodrigue Beaubois, Dallas 7.4%
4. DeJuan Blair, San Antonio 7.4%
4. Austin Daye, Detroit 7.4%
4. Jodie Meeks, Milwaukee 7.4%
4. Terrence Williams, New Jersey 7.4%
Also receiving votes:
Also receiving votes: Earl Clark, Phoenix; Darren Collison, New Orleans; Stephen Curry, Golden State; Jonny Flynn, Minnesota; Tyler Hansbrough, Indiana; Jrue Holiday, Philadelphia
- Last year: J.J. Hickson 20.0%

Who is the best international player in the NBA?
1. Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas 64.3%
2. Pau Gasol, L.A. Lakers 10.7%
3. Tim Duncan, San Antonio 7.1%
3. Manu Ginobili, San Antonio 7.1%
3. Steve Nash, Phoenix 7.1%
6. Tony Parker, San Antonio 3.6%
- Last year: Dirk Nowitzki 66.7%

Which international player is most likely to have a breakout season in 2009-10?
1. Rudy Fernandez, Portland 22.2%
2. Danilo Gallinari, New York 14.8%
3. Andrea Bargnani, Toronto 11.1%
3. Marco Belinelli, Toronto 11.1%
Also receiving votes:
Also receiving votes: Nicolas Batum, Portland; Rodrigue Beaubois, Dallas; Andrew Bogut, Milwaukee; Jose Calderon, Toronto; Francisco Garcia, Sacramento; Marc Gasol, Memphis; Ersan Ilyasova, Milwaukee; Andrei Kirilenko, Utah; Luis Scola, Houston; Thabo Sefolosha, Oklahoma City; Anderson Varejao, Cleveland
- Last year: Rudy Fernandez 32.0%

Who is the best international player NOT in the NBA?
1. Ricky Rubio 50.0%
2. Juan Carlos Navarro 15.4%
2. Tiago Splitter 15.4%
4. Dimitrios Diamantidis 11.5%
Also receiving votes:
Jorge Garbajosa, Linas Kleiza
- Last year: Ricky Rubio 57.7%

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2009-10 GM Survey Results: Miscellaneous

L.A. Lakers Which team is the most fun to watch?
1. L.A. Lakers 30.8%
2. Orlando 15.4%
3. Denver 11.5%
4. Cleveland 7.7%
4. Golden State 7.7%
4. New York 7.7%
Also receiving votes:
Atlanta, Phoenix, Portland, Utah, Washington
- Last year: New Orleans 26.9%

Which team has the best home-court advantage?
1. Cleveland 37.9%
2. Utah 31.0%
3. L.A. Lakers 10.3%
3. Portland 10.3%
Also receiving votes:
Boston, Golden State, San Antonio
- Last year: Utah 44.4%

Which player is the most athletic?
1. LeBron James, Cleveland 69.6%
2. Dwight Howard, Orlando 10.7%
2. Josh Smith, Atlanta 10.7%
Also receiving votes:
Rudy Gay, Memphis; Andre Iguodala, Philadelphia; Tyrus Thomas, Chicago
- Last year: LeBron James 59.3%

Which player is the best pure shooter?
1. Ray Allen, Boston 57.1%
2. Jason Kapono, Philadelphia 17.9%
Also receiving votes:
Joe Johnson, Atlanta; Kyle Korver, Utah; Rashard Lewis, Orlando; Kevin Martin, Sacramento; Steve Nash, Phoenix; Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas; J.R. Smith, Denver
- Last year: Ray Allen 61.1%

Which player is the fastest with the ball?
1. Chris Paul, New Orleans 42.9%
2. Tony Parker, San Antonio 17.9%
3. Aaron Brooks, Houston 14.3%
4. Derrick Rose, Chicago 7.1%
Also receiving votes:
Leandro Barbosa, Phoenix; Devin Harris, New Jersey; Brandon Jennings, Milwaukee; Steve Nash, Phoenix; Rajon Rondo, Boston
- Last year: Chris Paul 37.0%

Which player is best at moving without the ball?
1. Richard Hamilton, Detroit 67.9%
2. Manu Ginobili, San Antonio 14.3%
3. Ray Allen, Boston 10.7%
4. Kevin Martin, Sacramento 7.1%
- Last year: Richard Hamilton 76.9%

Which player is the best at getting his own shot?
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 69.0%
2. LeBron James, Cleveland 20.7%
3. Dwyane Wade, Miami 10.3%
- Last year: Kobe Bryant 81.5%

Which player is the best offensive rebounder?
1. Dwight Howard, Orlando 74.1%
Also receiving votes:
Samuel Dalembert, Philadelphia; Pau Gasol, L.A. Lakers; Udonis Haslem, Miami; Paul Millsap, Utah; Zaza Pachulia, Atlanta; Zach Randolph, Memphis; Amar'e Stoudemire, Phoenix
- Last year: Tyson Chandler 38.5%

Which player is the best passer?
1. Steve Nash, Phoenix 58.6%
2. Chris Paul, New Orleans 34.5%
3. Jason Kidd, Dallas 6.9%
- Last year: Steve Nash 44.4%

Which player is the most dangerous in the open floor?
1. LeBron James, Cleveland 62.1%
2. Chris Paul, New Orleans 17.2%
3. Steve Nash, Phoenix 6.9%
3. Dwyane Wade, Miami 6.9%
Also receiving votes:
Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers; Jason Kidd, Dallas
- Last year: LeBron James 37.0%

Which player is the best finisher?
1. LeBron James, Cleveland 55.2%
2. Dwyane Wade, Miami 13.8%
3. Dwight Howard, Orlando 10.3%
4. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 6.9%
Also receiving votes:
Carlos Boozer, Utah; Manu Ginobili, San Antonio; Andre Iguodala, Philadelphia; Tony Parker, San Antonio
- Last year: LeBron James 63.0%

Which player does the most with the least?
1. Mehmet Okur, Utah 14.3%
2. Matt Bonner, San Antonio 10.7%
3. Chuck Hayes, Houston 7.1%
3. David Lee, New York 7.1%
3. Luis Scola, Houston 7.1%
3. Hedo Turkoglu, Toronto 7.1%
Also receiving votes:
Kelenna Azubuike, Golden State; Shane Battier, Houston; Chauncey Billups, Denver; Glen Davis, Boston; Tim Duncan, San Antonio; Marc Gasol, Memphis; Matt Harpring, Utah; Kyle Korver, Utah; Paul Millsap, Utah; Steve Nash, Phoenix; John Salmons, Chicago; Anderson Varejao, Cleveland
- Last year: Bruce Bowen 12.5%

Who is the toughest player in the NBA?
1. Ron Artest, L.A. Lakers 42.9%
2. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 10.7%
3. Kevin Garnett, Boston 7.1%
3. Shaquille O'Neal, Cleveland 7.1%
3. Dwyane Wade, Miami 7.1%
Also receiving votes:
Matt Harpring, Utah; Al Horford, Atlanta; Stephen Jackson, Golden State; Chris Paul, New Orleans; Luis Scola, Houston; Kurt Thomas, Milwaukee
- Last year: Ron Artest 37.0%

Which player is the best leader?
1. Chauncey Billups, Denver 28.6%
2. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 25.0%
3. Tim Duncan, San Antonio 14.3%
4. Kevin Garnett, Boston 10.7%
5. Jason Kidd, Dallas 7.1%
5. Steve Nash, Phoenix 7.1%
5. Chris Paul, New Orleans 7.1%
- Last year: Kevin Garnett 51.9%

Which player has the best basketball IQ?
1. Steve Nash, Phoenix 36.5%
2. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 28.8%
3. Jason Kidd, Dallas 7.7%
Also receiving votes:
Shane Battier, Houston; Chauncey Billups, Denver; Tim Duncan, San Antonio; Pau Gasol, L.A. Lakers; Tony Parker, San Antonio; Brandon Roy, Portland; Deron Williams, Utah
- Last year: N/A

Which player would you want taking a shot with the game on the line?
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 89.7%
2. Paul Pierce, Boston 6.9%
3. Carmelo Anthony, Denver 3.4%
- Last year: Kobe Bryant 88.9%

[duncan228]

GMs love a winner, but where's the love for the Magic?
John Schuhmann
NBA.com

Stan Van Gundy likes playing the no-respect card. He loves to remind reporters of the times they've doubted his team. Throughout the course of the 2009 playoffs, Van Gundy was quick to tell the media -- many of whom wanted to see the Celtics and Cavs in the Eastern Conference finals and the Cavs and Lakers in The Finals -- that his Magic were spoiling all the fun.

This fall, the NBA's general managers are giving him more ammunition. In responding to NBA.com's eighth annual GM Survey, the league's top basketball minds picked four different teams to win the le, but the Magic were not among them. And only 7.1 percent of the respondents believe Orlando will repeat as Eastern Conference champions.

Now, both the Celtics and Cavs made big additions to teams that were already strong, so it's reasonable to think that they can get past the Magic. But 17.3 percent of the GMs believe that Orlando made the best overall moves this summer, swapping Hedo Turkoglu, Rafer Alston, Courtney Lee and Tony Battie for Vince Carter, Ryan Anderson, Matt Barnes, Brandon Bass and Jason Williams.

Only San Antonio received more votes for its offseason roster-shuffling. Cleveland got just one vote (for adding Shaquille O'Neal, Anthony Parker, Jamario Moon and Leon Powe) and Boston got none (for the additions of Rasheed Wallace, Marquis Daniels and Shelden Williams).

So why do more than 10 percent of the GMs believe that the Magic did the most to improve their team, but still won't make it back to The Finals? Is it the prospect of a healthy Kevin Garnett (Boston got 50 percent of the vote to win the East), a more motivated LeBron James (Cleveland got 42.9 percent), or is it just a lack of respect?

Before you answer that question, take note of the responses to one of the two new questions in this year's survey: "Which is the best defensive team in the NBA?" The GMs voted for Boston (60.7 percent), San Antonio (32.1 percent) and the Lakers (7.1 percent). Again, the Magic didn't get a single vote.

But the numbers show that Orlando was the No. 1 defensive team in the league last season, allowing just 99.5 points per 100 possessions, edging out Cleveland (99.6) and Boston (99.7). The Lakers ranked fifth (101.9) and the Spurs ranked sixth (102.0).

Almost half of the GMs said that Dwight Howard is the best defensive player in the league, 64.3 believe that Howard is the best interior defender, and one GM voted for Van Gundy as the coach with "the best defensive schemes." But none of them showed love for the Magic as the best defensive team in the NBA.

If you've followed the GM Survey over the years, you've noted that general managers are a very reactive bunch. Whenever the Spurs win the le, Gregg Popovich dominates the coaching questions the following fall. After the Heat won in 2006, Pat Riley topped most of the lists.

So where's the love for the Magic this year? Perhaps if they make another Finals run, they'll get more respect in next year's survey.

[redzero]

Carmelo Anthony > Kobe Bryant in game-winning situations, statistically speaking.

[Culburn369]

[Who is the best perimeter defender in the NBA?
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 34.5%]

Lordy.

[TheMACHINE]

damn...the toughest and defensive players belong to the Lakers...sweet!

[Culburn369]

[Which player has the best basketball IQ?
1. Steve Nash, Phoenix 36.5%]

Lordy.

[JamStone]

He may not have the best basketball IQ, but it isn't ridiculous to think that Nash has one of the best basketball IQ's in the league. Offensively, most would not argue with that. Defense is more about effort and athleticism than it is about IQ. Not that IQ doesn't play a role at all, but Nash's limitations and failures defensively are probably not tied into his IQ.

[21_Blessings]

[Who is the best perimeter defender in the NBA?
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 34.5%]

And he proved it in the playoffs.

[DeadlyDynasty]

Interesting read/results, thanks for posting it

[ploto]

Which one player acquisition will make the biggest impact?
1. Vince Carter, Orlando 25.0%

I don't see how when Orlando went to the NBA Finals last season.

[kamikazi_player]

2009-10 GM Survey Results: Predictions


Which team will win the Western Conference?
1. Los Angeles Lakers 75.9%
2. San Antonio Spurs 24.1%
- Last year: Boston Celtics 3.6%

Umm...how does that work?

[duncan228]

Umm...how does that work?

There were a couple of errors that I was able to correct, but I didn't look up that one.

[Allanon]

Who is the best perimeter defender in the NBA?
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 34.5%
2. Shane Battier, Houston 24.1%
3. Ron Artest, L.A. Lakers 20.7%
4. Rajon Rondo, Boston 6.9%
Also receiving votes:
Trevor Ariza, Houston; Dahntay Jones, Indiana; Luc Mbah a Moute, Milwaukee; John Salmons, Chicago
- Last year: Bruce Bowen 44.4%

Who is the best on-the-ball defender in the NBA?
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 25.0%
1. Rajon Rondo, Boston 25.0%
3. Ron Artest, L.A. Lakers 17.9%
4. Shane Battier, Houston 10.7%
4. Chris Paul, New Orleans 10.7%
6. Raja Bell, Charlotte 7.1%
7. John Salmons, Chicago 3.6%
- Last year: Kobe Bryant 26.9%

Who is the best international player NOT in the NBA?
1. Ricky Rubio 50.0%
2. Juan Carlos Navarro 15.4%
2. Tiago Splitter 15.4%
4. Dimitrios Diamantidis 11.5%
Also receiving votes:
Jorge Garbajosa, Linas Kleiza
- Last year: Ricky Rubio 57.7%

Who is the toughest player in the NBA?
1. Ron Artest, L.A. Lakers 42.9%
2. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 10.7%
3. Kevin Garnett, Boston 7.1%
3. Shaquille O'Neal, Cleveland 7.1%
3. Dwyane Wade, Miami 7.1%
Also receiving votes:
Matt Harpring, Utah; Al Horford, Atlanta; Stephen Jackson, Golden State; Chris Paul, New Orleans; Luis Scola, Houston; Kurt Thomas, Milwaukee
- Last year: Ron Artest 37.0%

Which player is the best leader?
1. Chauncey Billups, Denver 28.6%
2. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 25.0%
3. Tim Duncan, San Antonio 14.3%
4. Kevin Garnett, Boston 10.7%
5. Jason Kidd, Dallas 7.1%
5. Steve Nash, Phoenix 7.1%
5. Chris Paul, New Orleans 7.1%
- Last year: Kevin Garnett 51.9%

Which player has the best basketball IQ?
1. Steve Nash, Phoenix 36.5%
2. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 28.8%
3. Jason Kidd, Dallas 7.7%
Also receiving votes:
Shane Battier, Houston; Chauncey Billups, Denver; Tim Duncan, San Antonio; Pau Gasol, L.A. Lakers; Tony Parker, San Antonio; Brandon Roy, Portland; Deron Williams, Utah
- Last year: N/A

I thought these were the most surprising. I'm really surprised that Kobe dominated the defensive polls, I usually think of him as an offensive guy, not defense. Ron Artest popping up there still is also great news to Laker fans.

And Kobe as the 2nd best leader? Hahah, after years of being called just a scorer, un-willing passer and ball-hog, he's getting recognized for his leadership...what a total turnaround.

I always thought Juan Carlos Navarro was the best non-NBA player, Rubio must be alot better than I thought he was. Tiago Splitter is a bad-ass though, I've watched a bunch of his games. Between Marc Gasol and Tiago Splitter, you have two of the 5 best NBA centers a couple of years from now.

Steve Nash is a smart dude, never thought he'd be listed as the #1 basketball minded player though.

Thanks for posting Duncan228, one of my favorite polls.

[mogrovejo]

Which team will win the Eastern Conference?
Boston Celtics

Which team will win the Western Conference?
Los Angeles Lakers

Which team will win the Atlantic Division?
Boston Celtics

Which team will win the Central Division?
Cleveland Cavaliers

Which team will win the Southeast Division?
Orlando Magic

Which team will win the Southwest Division?
San Antonio Spurs

Which team will win the Northwest Division?
Portland Trail Blazers

Which team will win the Pacific Division?
Los Angeles Lakers
*********************

2009-10 GM Survey Results: Player Predictions

Who will win the 2009-10 MVP?
LeBron James

If you were starting a franchise today and could sign any player in the NBA, who would it be?
LeBron James

Which player forces opposing coaches to make the most adjustments?
LeBron James

Which player is most likely to have a breakout season in 2009-10?
Raymond Felton

Who is the best point guard in the NBA?
Deron Williams

Who is the best shooting guard in the NBA?
Kobe Bryant

Who is the best small forward in the NBA?
LeBron James

Who is the best power forward in the NBA?
Tim Duncan

Who is the best center in the NBA?
Dwight Howard

2009-10 GM Survey Results: Defense

Who is the best defensive player in the NBA?
Kevin Garnett

Who is the best perimeter defender in the NBA?
Shane Battier

Who is the best interior defender in the NBA?
Dwight Howard

Who is the best on-the-ball defender in the NBA?
Shane Battier

Which player best defends the passing lanes in the NBA?
Rajon Rondo

Which is the best defensive team in the NBA?
Boston Celtics

********************

2009-10 GM Survey Results: Offseason Moves

Which team made the best overall moves?
San Antonio Spurs

Which one player acquisition will make the biggest impact?
Vince Carter

What was the most underrated player acquisition?
Antonio McDyess

Which team will be most improved in 2009-10?
Washington Wizards

What was the most surprising move of the offseason?
Memphis acquiring Zach Randolph

*********************

2009-10 GM Survey Results: Coaches

Who is the best head coach in the NBA?
Jerry Sloan

Which head coach is the best manager/motivator of people?
Phil Jackson

Which head coach makes the best in-game adjustments?
Larry Brown

Which head coach is the best in the last two minutes of a close game?
Larry Brown

Which head coach runs the best offense?
Jerry Sloan

Which head coach has the best defensive schemes?
Doc Rivers

Who is the best assistant coach in the NBA?
Tom Thibodeau

Which active player will make the best head coach someday?
Kevin Ollie

*********************

2009-10 GM Survey Results: Rookies/International Predictions

Who will win the Rookie of the Year?
Blake Griffin

Which rookie will be the best player in five years?
Blake Griffin

Which rookie is the most athletic?
Blake Griffin

Which rookie is most likely to be a "sleeper" success?
James Johnson

Who is the best international player in the NBA?
Dirk Nowitzki

Which international player is most likely to have a breakout season in 2009-10?
Thabo Sefolosha

Who is the best international player NOT in the NBA?
Ramunas Siskauskas

*********************

2009-10 GM Survey Results: Miscellaneous

Which team is the most fun to watch?
Utah Jazz

Which team has the best home-court advantage?
Utah Jazz

Which player is the most athletic?
LeBron James

Which player is the best pure shooter?
Steve Novak

Which player is the fastest with the ball?
Brandon Jennings

Which player is best at moving without the ball?
Richard Hamilton

Which player is the best at getting his own shot?
LeBron James

Which player is the best offensive rebounder?
Kevin Love

Which player is the best passer?
Steve Nash

Which player is the most dangerous in the open floor?
LeBron James

Which player is the best finisher?
LeBron James

Which player does the most with the least?
Kendrick Perkins

Who is the toughest player in the NBA?
Luis Scola

Which player is the best leader?
Tim Duncan

Which player has the best basketball IQ?
Shane Battier

Which player would you want taking a shot with the game on the line?
Paul Pierce

[Seventyniner]

Out of curiosity, how much do the GMs really know (or are willing to be honest about)? Should this be taken as near-rock solid fact, knee-jerk media-pleasing drivel, or somewhere in between?

LOL at Z-Bo to the Grizz being one of the most surprising offseason moves. It sure surprised me, though I suppose it shouldn't; there's absolutely no evidence that anyone in the Grizzlies' FO has any idea what the they're doing.

Also, Gasol getting more votes than Duncan as the best international player had me scratching my head.

[Allanon]

Out of curiosity, how much do the GMs really know (or are willing to be honest about)? Should this be taken as near-rock solid fact, knee-jerk media-pleasing drivel, or somewhere in between?

I think it's pretty truthful as they can't vote for their own players or team.

Also, Gasol getting more votes than Duncan as the best international player had me scratching my head.

I don't think many people (or GM's) think of Duncan as an international player. I mean seriously, Tim Duncan was born in the US Virgin Islands...that's practically American born unless you get too technical.

[Culburn369]

"Out of curiosity, how much do the GMs really know (or are willing to be honest about)?"

All depends: are they buttering Spur's bread, or, pissing in Spur's Cheerio's.

[FromWayDowntown]

I love that Tim Duncan got votes in the "gets the most out of the least" category.

[Culburn369]

[Who is the toughest player in the NBA?
Luis Scola]

Stings, don't it?

[23LeBronJames23]

LeBron was picked number 1 eight times...

and Kobe only once WOW. no respect for Kobe?

[KSeal]

LeBron was picked number 1 eight times...

and Kobe only once WOW. no respect for Kobe?

No, LBJ is better. Kobe is on the better team though

[FkLA]

Dwight Howard is so overrated, he is nothing on offense. You cant depend on him to score consistantly...dude is y too and Im not sure he has that 'it' about him to drive to become what he is capable of becoming. He obviously needs post moves and instead works on a mid-range shot in the off-season because in his opinion he has a good post game its just hard to display it when he's getting 'double and triple teamed'. Seriously I liked him cause he was real humble early on but getting to the Finals and all this praise is getting to his head, besides Rashard and Hedo were just as responsible for the Finals trip.

Also Kobe's D is overrated, he has the potential to shut down a guy...but than again Oden has the potential to be one of the best Centers in the league. Point being Kobe doesnt guard elite players on a consistant basis to display that defense just like Oden doesnt play enough to realize said potential. Kobe is usually guarding the opposing teams worst swingman...he has always had guys like Fox, George, Ariza, and now Artest to guard the other team's best perimeter player.

[Culburn369]

Dwight Howard is so overrated, he is nothing on offense. You cant depend on him to score consistantly

As Bynum proved in the '09 Finals.

[Lars]

These lists are ing re ed.