Basketball from a fans perspective
Published Monday-Friday
It’s me
Paul George wants out; he has no desire to sign a long-range contract with the Pacers according to reports. He‘s even named the team of his choice, that team is reported to be the Lakers. George grew up in Southern Cal and might want to return “home. “ Let’s back this vehicle up a moment; allow me to state I’m no charter member of the Paul George fan club. George is a very talented player however in my mind is not one who commands a max contract.
This entire situation would be different if the Lakers were not “forced” to make a trade to acquire George. As mentioned previously George is a restricted free-agent. The only method he becomes a Laker is through a trade. I am totally opposed to reports circulating the Lakers might trade the number two pick in the 2017 draft for George. I wish I had someone convince me this would be a good move for the Lakers. I cannot see it and I pointed out early on It’s me.
I like him
Draymond Green has proven he’s a talent and a valuable part of the Warriors. No doubt in my mind (and maybe others) he was one of the keys allowing the team to win a second championship in three years. The tee-shirt he chose to wear at the victory parade was a hot dog move on his part. The Warriors beat the Cavs convincingly there is no need for Green to “rub salt in the wounds. “ Green needs to tone it down a bit in my opinion, I’m out.
Is there a need?
We’ve witnessed the battle between the Heat and Chris Bosh over the last several seasons. Health issues have not allowed him to play a full season since 2013-14. The Heat state Bosh is not healthy enough to play while Bosh’s doctors counter the claim. All this is coming down to a point the Heat will release Bosh allowing him to become a free-agent.
Bosh turned 33 in March 2017 but has played little basketball over the last two seasons, he should have 3-4 good years remaining but who is willing to add him to their roster? The 6-11 power forward has a nearly 20 ppg average so he should be able to aid a team as a starter or key reserve. If he’s truly healthy I’d like to see him back on the court once again no matter which team he might chose.
Bits n Pieces
I mentioned the possibility of the Celtics drafting Josh Jackson ex-Kansas Jayhawk. It could be former Dukee Jayson Tatum as well; Tatum also fits that talented small forward role the team needs to fill. I can hardly wait until Thursday to see how this plays out.
Which brother is under more intense pressure this upcoming season Lonzo or LiAngelo Ball? I believe it to be the middle brother; LiAngelo is headed to UCLA without the fanfare of his older brother. Can he play--of course he can but not at the skill level of Lonzo? What should we expect from daddy LaVar if the youngster has only a fair collegiate season?
A planned Los Angeles arena
Many believe the prospect of a new arena in Los Angeles is a non-story. As indicated earlier 2020 is the earliest possible date the new home of the Clippers could open. There are several factors which make this an interesting possibility. Clippers owner Steve Ballmer appears to have a strong desire to separate his franchise identity from that of the Lakers. One of the methods for change is the Clippers playing in their own arena; they would be first in line for prime dates rather than in third place where they currently sit.
I’ve read letters from residents indicating the Clippers could move to Orange County however that appears to a non-factor for the owner. In Inglewood they would be right in the heart of the metro and able to draw fans from all directions, we shall see. The City of Inglewood is sayin’ place your money where your mouth is, they are requesting the Clippers to place a $1.5 million dollar non-refundable deposit to cover costs associated with the planning. It appears Mr. Ballmer is serious on this proposal. Ballmer is doing the best he can to separate his franchise from that of the Lakers. This issue never seem to bother former owner Donald Sterling.
