One more big trade, and the Western Conference gets a free latte
Looks like the Kidd-to-Dallas talks are heating up again, though Mark Cuban is quoted (at least here) as saying the price his team would have to pay would be too high.
These things are never done until they're done, but man alive, should this go down, the West will get a lot wilder. Though, depending on who they'd have to give up, it's questionable as to how much better Dallas would get. But fun trumps everything, and this would be fun!
BK
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AK/BK-
Saved By the Bell meets There Will Be Blood...
http://www.collegehumor.com/video:1801890
Posted by: ajax | February 13, 2008 at 11:06 AM
I think the Mavs got to make this deal. They won't win as they are, they haven't won as they are. They need to take a gamble.
While it would make them tougher for us theoretically (not really), as a Laker fan I'm going to be giggling at the salary cap implications for them.
Posted by: Faith | February 13, 2008 at 11:09 AM
If I were Kupchak...
I don't think we should be standing pat. We need to improve our perimeter defense. We should try for Artest - offer Vlad, cash and our 2009 #1 for Ron Ron. While the Kings would be loathe to help us anyway, we should send Artest feelers that we are willing to sign him to a 4 year 50M$ extension - including incentives for games played, playoff performances and keeping sanity.
Can you imagine the havoc Kobe and Ron Ron would wreck on the perimeter?
Bynum, Pau, Artest, LO, Kobe, Fish, Farmar, Trevor, Ronny, Sasha - best top 10 in the league.
Posted by: hariyahu | February 13, 2008 at 11:20 AM
If I record the Lakers today..
Minnesota by 5
If I don't..
Lakers by 11
How the tables have turned. Mitch was the most criticized GM a couple months ago, and now he has started this arms race in the west....
Posted by: never | February 13, 2008 at 11:21 AM
Laker fan here. To be honest i don't really fear Jason Kidd right now and wouldn't trade for him if im the Lakers. He's 36 years old,and isnt very good in halfcourt sets because of his inability to make the outside shot when his teammates get double teamed.
Posted by: kelly | February 13, 2008 at 11:26 AM
Garnett and Allen to Celtics, Shaq to Suns, and this idea of Kidd to the Mav's may work out for their respective new team's, but is just a Band - Aid. So I say good for them, let's all just enjoy the ride. What we all will remember in 20 years from now is how our beloved team mowed down these so called "Powerhouses". I can't wait to see how this all play's out.
What is nice about the Lakers now is that they are built for the long haul. Come and get some of it NBA.
Posted by: Lakers 24 365 | February 13, 2008 at 11:27 AM
Anyone calling in to the show? Faith? I'd love to hear the first Lady's voice...
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 13, 2008 at 11:30 AM
Faith,
You are right, girl. This will be salary cap avalanche landed in Dallas. Kidd started his pro career in Dallas at $ 3M or less, now he will be going back at $ 20M w/ 12 PPG but a versatile PG Nets will get Stackhouse, Harris, George and Diop OMG, so in effect Kidd will be feeding Nowitzky, Finley and Terry. If this trade is good only up to the end of the season and the salary of Kidd will free some caps, then that's a good move but if Kidd will be extended and more escalation starting at $20M, this will entail more withdrawals from Cuban's blue chips.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | February 13, 2008 at 11:31 AM
hariyahu,
how about including Luke Walton, Mihm and Vlad for Artest? Do you think that is good enough to give Artest?
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | February 13, 2008 at 11:34 AM
Is there a never don't record the game bandwagon? (wait, with sloppy grammar, that works on two levels!)
If so, I'm on it.
Posted by: The D | February 13, 2008 at 11:34 AM
Put it another way - do you want to see Artest on another team?
Spurs, Suns, Mavs, Nuggets, Jazz? Heck even the Heat would be scary with Artest on the same team as Wade and Marion!
Posted by: hariyahu | February 13, 2008 at 11:35 AM
What's Up people,
Just think about how much more competitive the Heat look with Marion, as opposed with Shaq, and that has to be a telling sign. Seriously. They absolutely SUCKED with Shaq, but at least seem competitive with Marion (so far). It will very interesting to see how in the world Shaq, who has to ADAPT to the Suns, will eventually make them better, when the team that was more "suited" to him, the HEAT, are better off with one of players that made the Suns who they were. Pay attention to that. I thought this "could" possibly help the Suns, but it's starting to look like the surface value is real. Marion is just better right now, PERIOD. No matter the system. No matter the circumstances. Marion FIT with the Suns. Shaq doesn't. Marion will make the HEat better. So how will they be better with Shaq? AND, this is assuming Shaq stays healthy. Right now, that is a big assumption.
Posted by: wondahbap | February 13, 2008 at 11:35 AM
Fire32,
What impotent representation you are of the Suns Fans.
Shaq was with us the longest out of the teams he played for. How can we not comment on him? Besides, this is an Nba team blog so we may express our feelings about former alumni and players of the NBA. Perhaps you are new to the concept of a blog.
However, I must thank another Lakers alumni which I'm sure you are quite fond of: Robert Horry. I'm sure you Scallywag Napoleon Complexed Self Indoctrinating Suns Fans and your Porn Stache coach can use him as an excuse. I CAN'T GET THAT NAME OFF MY FINGER TIPS TOO. Thank you Bob.
While seen as a peasant in our hierarchy of team blogsphere, I am amused by the fact you are spending time on our community blog. While you remain nameless and incongruous, perhaps you are confused that you are playing half mole half gnat?
How is Nash the new Flash? Maybe you can't get that off your fingertips because you are now rhyming and typing? Must be awesome for you, may I suggest buying a rhyme dictionary. The Neo Rappers of today use it; they too need help. (Aside from writing with thought and applying music theory to their chants) Nash is a great player and he is not know for his defense or speed. Maybe your Justice League hero reference should be "Wonder Woman." Love his hair.
You are right though. The Suns are Champions in the making. In the making since 1968.
Raja Bell does a great job shutting down Kobe? So good that he had to clothes line him. Since he used MMA and wrestling rules to Basketball, I wonder how he would do in that sport. But wait; that rule applies to a different sport.
Amare has yet to prove him creating his own shot against the Gasol. He must rely on Wonder Woman for that. Why don't you intrude to Orlando Blog and check the stats for that game. I would give you the stats, but you have yet to blog with comprehension. So math might be a challenge for you....
You and another absurd blogger Cav's Fan are always a reminder of the Laker ground we walk. Sometimes bumpy, long, with insects to step on.
"WOW the more I think about it. The more I understand your worries." I’m glad you WOW yourself when you think. But you don’t understand.
To quote Sasha Baron Cohen’s character Borat: “I like you, Do you like me?”
Have a nice day!
Posted by: Charles | February 13, 2008 at 11:36 AM
Call in here:
310-984-7600
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 13, 2008 at 11:36 AM
Faith,
True. With their aging vets, adding Kidd would deplete even Cuban's wallet.
Kidd plays Kobe as tough as anyone in the league.
They could get past first round, but it would take all the luck there is to make the WCF.
Posted by: Vman | February 13, 2008 at 11:36 AM
BK, agree with you that it's not done until it's done. but no diop, harris AND stackhouse? looks like the lakers' path to the finals just got a whole lot easier -- our front court of bynum/gasol/odom will now devastate the mavs
Posted by: DK | February 13, 2008 at 11:38 AM
Pistol Pete is > Jason Kidd
NBA.com has10 moves by Pistol Pete, have a look.
They also have to stop using a spellchecker and actually read their text "rarely scene footage":
"Famously known for his dazzling ball-handling and passing skills, "Pistol Pete" Maravich was a highlight film. Watch some rarely scene footage from his career."
Posted by: Bynumite | February 13, 2008 at 11:39 AM
Another thing....
Having Shaq on the floor will take away Steve Nash' dribble probes down the middle. Shaq has to be on the block, which will shut down Nash's ability to run free in the half court set. That ability is vital to what the Suns do. No Marion to slash, or kick out for a 3. Marions versatility was vital to what the Suns do.
Versus the Lakers, with or without Bynum, Pau creates a problem. Pau can shoot from 18 ft. out, which would bring Shaq away from the basket (if Bynum is back), or Stoudamire, who can't defend anyway (with Bynum out). Either way the Lakers have the advantage. Shaq has to play Pau honest, no matter the physical advantage. They can't let Pau have free looks. With Bynum, they can' double team, and there will be at offensive advantages at all times for the Lakers with Bynum, Pau, Lamar, Kobe, and D-fish on the floor. This trade will not hurt the Lakers. The Suns will not be able to match up with anyone.
Posted by: wondahbap | February 13, 2008 at 11:43 AM
Hariyahu, get off the crack.
As much as I love your idea, it ain't happening. Kings would much rather send Artest to Chicago for their young guys than help the Hated Lakers.
That list would perhaps even be Top 10 roster of ALL TIME (or pretty darn close).
Posted by: Bynumite | February 13, 2008 at 11:44 AM
Fire32 has no clue. The Suns are the new Portland Blazers & Sacramento Kings of the late 90's/early Millenium, a good team that will NEVER make the Finals, and be forgotten about in 5 years.
Shaq has become the new David Beckham. A big name with bigger hopes than game at this point. The Suns got star struck. Good Luck. You still won;t beat The Lakers, or SA.
Posted by: wondahbap | February 13, 2008 at 11:47 AM
wondahbap,
Reggie Miller likes the trade for two reasons. Forgot what the first one was, but the second one was, get this, free throws. After Dan Patrick stopped laughing he explained that all the ticky tack fouls that Shaq draws will get the Suns into penalty earlier, affording them more opportunities at the line.
He likes the Suns IF Shaq is healthy. Otherwise he gave alot of love to the Lake show.
Posted by: mel | February 13, 2008 at 11:51 AM
Looks like the trade is done according to cbs.
"The Nets agree to trade All-Star point guard Jason Kidd and Malik Allen to the Mavericks for Devin Harris, Jerry Stackhouse, Devean George, DeSagana Diop, Maurice Ager, two first-round picks and cash, sources tell Tony Mejia of CBSSports.com."
Posted by: Bynumite | February 13, 2008 at 11:56 AM
Kidd to Dallas...
Is there any reason to have playoffs in the East?
Posted by: Vman | February 13, 2008 at 12:00 PM
AK/BK
You guys just missed putting out your views on the Jason Kidd trade, looks like it's done and should be spreading across the newswires right now :)
Posted by: Bynumite | February 13, 2008 at 12:01 PM
Nice to hear from Charles and Marty. That show was pretty short though.
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 13, 2008 at 12:03 PM
Charles,
You blog well my friend.
I've never heard the term "Neo-Rapper" though.
I think this album would qualify though. Of of my favorites!!!
http://tinyurl.com/yt6c83
Rock this on your Sirius show! Although since you're a music guy like me, you probably already do.
Posted by: Lawrence Tanter's understudy | February 13, 2008 at 12:03 PM
What a trading season this has been
Ashton Kutcher to the Jazz for that wasted talent Giricek
Pau to Lakers for Cakehands
Shaq to Lakers for Shawn Marion
Webber to Warriors
Jason Kidd to Mavs for half the Dallas team
Artest, Bibby, who's next?
Posted by: Bynumite | February 13, 2008 at 12:05 PM
Oops, Shaqfu to Suns, not Lakers :)
Posted by: Bynumite | February 13, 2008 at 12:05 PM
Charles:
Great post..........Wonder Woman...............LMAO
Fire 24:
Put down the pipe and torch and revisit reality for a while............you just might like it.
The D:
Sign me up as shotgun on the "never don't record the game" bandwagon.
Posted by: toad | February 13, 2008 at 12:11 PM
I think Raja Bell is the one who should be worried.
I can see Kobe playing his heart out to defeat Shaq. Kobe in his prime playing his heart out is going to be something to see.
Fish/Farmar can cancel out Nash. Big Bynum/Gasol can cancel out Shaq/Amare. Lamar should be able to break Grant Hill (We'll see on that one). But Kobe, Kobe will play like a man possessed come playoff time. Then you add the implications of a Suns/Lakers showdown, Kobe might just play some of the best basketball a player has ever played.
This is going to be good.
That said, the Spurs are still the team to beat.
Posted by: Rocky | February 13, 2008 at 12:15 PM
Lawrence Tanter's understudy,
Thank you for your kind words. We have to keep our Blog Aristocracy in order bro.... I will chat with you regarding music on another entry. www.concretegrooves.com I'm putting out another album this year. Check out the about us section
Regards,
Posted by: Charles | February 13, 2008 at 12:18 PM
The D -
Is there a never don't record the game bandwagon?
I thought you were doing your Kat Williams impersonation with that statement!
Posted by: C.Brown | February 13, 2008 at 12:20 PM
Toad,
Thank you for your kind words man...
Posted by: Charles | February 13, 2008 at 12:20 PM
eh good mornin CHARLES
why all the name callin, I did jump to this blog cause peeps like you, smart n I like what you post... just b/c we dont agree with our points doesn't mean you have to bash me
I dont look at the SUNS with my blinders on. When you guys got gasol believe me I was trippin, everyone in the west was, but now that we got SHAQ ..order was restored atleast for these 2 teams
OK if you want me to say your beloved lakers are champs already ....I will NOTTTT!!!!!!!
no more name callin CHARLES your better than that
HI FIVE
Posted by: Fire32 | February 13, 2008 at 12:20 PM
Edwin Gueco,
I'd love to get out of Luke's contract - but I don't think *any* team will want him, especially not the Kings :(
Bynumite,
Hey, I never said I think it will happen, did I? I just want it to happen. Realistically, Artest is expecting a 11-14M payday, and there are very few teams who can afford to pay him that much money, especially given his rep as a mentally unstable nutcase. On the right team (as in us), he'd be the difference between contender and "why are even playing this game?".
Posted by: hariyahu | February 13, 2008 at 12:22 PM
AK/BK -
Any idea who the Suns will try and add to their roster after the all star break?
I thought I read somewhere that they will look to add another piece then...
On another note, Sacramento is starting to play well so I don't know if they are looking to move Artest or Mini Me.
You say _________________________________.
Posted by: C.Brown | February 13, 2008 at 12:24 PM
Gueco, I hope for the Mavs fans' sake that Kidd won't be feeding Michael Finley, that wouldn't work out very well for them.
On the contrary, he'll be feeding Dirk, Howard, and Terry - still all very dangerous shooters. But now they are PUNY in the paint, and lost their best guy at driving deep into opposing defenses.
Posted by: Vonislav Waferdenko | February 13, 2008 at 12:26 PM
hariyahu,
Ha, ha, I know you were not serious about it (just throwing it out there) I couldn't resist the crack comment though.
It'd be great to happen though seeing as a trade on Artest is also imminent one way or another.
Posted by: Bynumite | February 13, 2008 at 12:28 PM
Hariyahu/Edwin: Who wouldn't want ARTEST on this Laker team with the potential of another shut down or havoc reeked type defender along with Kobe and (Bynum) could provide?????? .However like one of the other bloggers alluded to, I don't think it can happen unless the Maloof brothers get twisted hangin out in one of their Vegas clubs and just hands him over....But then again, the way things is shaking up in the West, never say never...
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | February 13, 2008 at 12:28 PM
Can we just blow up the NBA and let the guys play pick-up games on national TV instead?
Posted by: J. Walter Weatherman | February 13, 2008 at 12:29 PM
Question, even though Dallas can resign Stack in 30 days if he chooses to go back, is there a way we can snatch him up??? I think another shooter (albeit a streaky one) couldn't hurt...
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | February 13, 2008 at 12:29 PM
Charles -
I got your back man. This geezer from Phoenix is ascared of the Lake Show and their fans!
Posted by: MJCMAN32 | February 13, 2008 at 12:31 PM
You know what I love. I'll tell ya.
Phoenix, San Antonio and now Dallas have just gotten their AARP cards.
A new Laker Dy"Nasty" is on the horizon!
Posted by: MJCMAN32 | February 13, 2008 at 12:34 PM
Wes:
You're too kind. Hey, I'll tell you, limping into this road trip as we were, I would've been happy with 5-4. But sitting on a chance to be 7-2, I'm out of my mind. Of course, we haven't done that yet, and Minnesota has played some good games in their last 10 or 15. But when you think we were just a few points from sweeping this trip, and wow ...
Posted by: Marty | February 13, 2008 at 12:36 PM
Regardless if we don't make another move and I doubt we will, I still LOVE our teams chances ESPECIALLY when and if we can become fully healthy...Just think,we haven't even PLAYED our BEST ball..When we peak, hopefully it's just as we are going into the playoffs..
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | February 13, 2008 at 12:38 PM
Mel,
I heard what Reggie had to say, but I don't think that Shaq will get the foul calls. Not these days. He hasn' shown that he nees to doubled anymore. Unless he is point blank range, he's not guaranteed to score. he has aproblem converting lay-ups these days, so, unless he has an open pth to dunk, someone like Bynum might be able to play him straight up. Bynum length would cause problems for Shaq's ability to shoot over him. If shaq does help put the Suns in the bonus, it still slows them down. The Suns need to run. Especially if they are down, they need to create opportunities to score fast off opponents' misses.
So, unless the Suns do a great job penetrating and Nash forces closeouts, allowing Shaq to get easy alley-oops or point blank dunks, it might not be so easy. That being said, Nash could just make it that easy for Shaq. Nothing in his play this year in Miami has indicated that the "top" teams can't handle that.
Posted by: wondahbap | February 13, 2008 at 12:39 PM
>>>Bynum, Pau, Artest, LO, Kobe, Fish, Farmar, Trevor,
>>>Ronny, Sasha - best top 10 in the league.
yeah, but you could take Artest out and put LUKE in and
that would still be the best top 10 in the league.
Better yet, you could take Artest out and put Congolian BEEF
in and it would still be the best top 10 in the league.
Lakers don't need Artest. If Ariza comes back healthy, he
will give the Lakers 80% of Artest's defense and 0% of Artest's
crazy. (and the Lakers don't really need more offense,
they're
pretty well stocked in that department).
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | February 13, 2008 at 12:40 PM
Wow, that PAU-ER move by Mitch sure got all these WEST COAST GMs shook like a mofo!! LMFAO!
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | February 13, 2008 at 12:41 PM
hariyahu,
>>>Put it another way - do you want to see Artest on
>>>another team?
I don't think he's going anywhere. Teams just aren't willing
to give up what Sacramento wants for him. New York was
interested, but Sacramento wants David Lee. Denver
was interested, but Sacramento wants Linas Kleiza,
Eduardo Najera and a first round pick.
And basically, they are more or less insisting that whatever
team trades for Artest takes on Kenny Thomas and his 2 more
years of bad contract as well.
And Artest will likely opt out of his contract and want to
get paid what he's really worth starting next season -
so whoever trades for him gives up 14 million in salary
(or thereabouts) and adds something like 19 or 20 million
(that's both Artest and Thomas) for several years.
Maybe Miami would be willing to take on Thomas' bad
contract to get Artest - Wade, Artest, and Marion would
be a pretty potent combo in the East. They have expiring
contracts. They'd have to be willing to give up their
unprotected first round pick to get the job done, but it
might fly.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | February 13, 2008 at 12:51 PM
ESPNews and Yahoo are reporting the Kidd to Dallas deal also. Amazing....the Nets made out on this trade....they got Devin Harris who will fit in great with that team and a big center in Diop. Krstic is showing signs of real recovery for them and it's Krstic, not Kidd, VC or Jefferson, who is the real key to that team. Rod Thorn fleeced Cuban on this one. This will bite Caban right in the arse!!!
Posted by: bronxlakerfan | February 13, 2008 at 12:52 PM