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Around SBN: Blake Griffin Slam Dunks: NBA Jam Style

Los Angeles Clippers 98 - Minnesota Timberwolves 90 - That's Better

It doesn't exactly erase the sting of three consecutive bad losses, but the Clippers got about as much good news tonight as they might reasonably hope for at one time. First of all, they won a game - and not just any game, a road game, only their fifth victory away from home this season. Secondly, they got Chris Kaman back, which, after being out for 34 games and 45 of the last 47, was something we thought we might never see again. Kaman looked good, particularly when you consider that this was his first game action in 10 weeks, and with six days off for the All Star break before the next game, there's reason to believe that the Clippers will soon be back at full strength, with Eric Gordon and Craig Smith back in the lineup as well. A post All Star break run with a healthy team would go a long way towards building buzz and confidence for next season.

As for the game, there's nothing quite like a meeting against the Timberwolves to get a struggling team back on track. Although Baron Davis had his toughest shooting night of the road trip making just 2 of 10 shots (he missed his first 7), the Clippers got good performances from several others to get the win.

Star-divide

Blake Griffin led the way with 29 points. His jump shot was particularly good tonight, as he made five of them, which must surely be one of his best night's from the perimeter this season. I'm not convinced that it's something the Clippers want to rely on night in and night out, but it's certainly nice when it's clicking. Notably, he shot the jumper with confidence tonight, catching and shooting rather than hesitating and shooting as a second of third or last option. Whether the confidence led to the makes or the makes led to the confidence, it was certainly a positive feedback loop once it got going.

The ClipperWolves, Ryan Gomes and Randy Foye, each played well to help carry the scoring load. Foye had 21 points and Gomes had 18, and between them they made 5 of the Clippers 6 three pointers (though it took them 16 attempts to do so). Gomes' corner three in the final minute slammed the door on any comeback hopes the Wolves may have harbored. I'd love to see these guys hit even more of the shots they're getting - with all the defensive attention Griffin is commanding, they get open looks all game long. But I'll take 13 for 28 with 5 threes, especially given some of the other nights we've seen from them lately.

DeAndre Jordan had one of his more active games in a while, with four blocked shots. He also had eight rebounds. Even Baron, although he did not shoot well, helped in other areas with six assists and only two turnovers. In other words, all five Clipper starters contributed.

Eric Bledsoe came off the bench with a ton of energy which he (mostly) put to good use. He had 10 points, 8 rebounds (tied with Jordan and Griffin for team high honors, if you can believe that), 5 assists and 4 steals - wow! But he also had 4 turnovers. He's a singular talent, that much is true. On one play in the third quarter he took an outlet pass near mid-court, and went one on four against the retreating Minnesota defense - and he still managed to blow by everyone, get to the rim, finish with his off hand and get fouled for the three point opportunity. I'm not at all convinced it was a smart play to go one on four there - but how many players in the league even have the talent to do that?

As for Kaman, he was limited to 10 minutes tonight, but he looked good during that time. He scored 4 points (hitting his first two jump shots), and also had 6 rebounds and 3 blocks in those limited minutes. I'm as happy as anyone that DeAndre Jordan has stepped up and played well in Kaman's absence, but there's little question as to who is the better player. It reminds me a bit of the Bledsoe/Baron situation way back in November. When Bledsoe was playing well and everyone was pissed off at Baron, there was talk of Baron being 'benched' and how the Clippers would be better off with Bledsoe as the full time starter. That talk was unfounded then, and it's obvious now just how misguided it was. It's the same situation with Jordan and Kaman. There simply aren't a lot of players around with Kaman's combination of size and skills. Moreover, people don't seem to realize that Kaman is as good a rebounder as Jordan, and almost as good a shot blocker (his shot blocking in 05-06 was actually better than anything Jordan's done on his career). Plus, Kaman's post defense is superior and there's obviously no comparison on offense. Kaman can be maddening, I know. After all, I'm the guy who dubbed him Mr. Flippy. But his presence will clearly help the team - a lot - assuming he plays at a level  approaching what he did last season. Actually, if he can become the rebounding and shot blocking demon he was in 05-06, so much the better, but I'll certainly take the 2010 version.

So the Clippers have reached a pause in their Odyssey. They're 2-6 in the first 8 games, which is better than their road winning percentage on the season, but certainly not good, especially considering the weak competition they've faced in the last four. But maybe some brighter days are ahead if the team can get healthy after the All Star break.

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Bledsoe is an athletic freak

right now he is like a Toyota with a broken brake (yes I know this is a dated reference), when he learns to use that break and turn on the accelerator at more opportune times he will be very good.
I was definitely surprised by Kaman, makes me remember just how good he is. The clippers should definitely ease him in. I had almost forgot how good of a defender and rebounder he is, and you may be right that he is a better player then DJ. We need to see more games with both Kaman on the court with Griffin so we can see how well they play together.

"It's better to be an optimist who is sometimes wrong than a pessimist who is always right"unknown

by bestclipfan on Feb 16, 2011 10:42 PM PST reply actions  

+1 Bledsoe was a total steal for us!

I actually had totally forgotten about Kaman’s defense! Three block shots in 9 minutes! Nice! At this point kaman is the center this Clipper team needs (if he is fully healthy)

We are the Clippers! What else is new?

by Jayq on Feb 16, 2011 11:07 PM PST up reply actions  

Bledsoe continues to impress each and every single day

His biggest problem is his control issues, luckily that’s something that will take care of itself over time with experience. The sky’s the limit for him, and I can definitely foresee a perfect situation as far as timing and development as Baron passes the torch over to Bledsoe.

"The perception here in Los Angeles has always been that the Lakers find a way to win games and the Clippers find a way to lose…I recognize it, but I'm not going to accept it," Griffin said. "I'm not going to say, 'Oh, that's fine."

by TheEricGordonShow on Feb 17, 2011 2:19 AM PST up reply actions  

Baron

It’s too bad he’s breaking down the one time he’s actually given effort while on the Clips, I look at Bledsoe as a Darren Collison type which means he could be a good point guard but he’s probably not going to translate to wins this early in his career.

Ball Chat - Episode 21 - Say It Ain't Sloan - 2/15/11

Irreverent, informative, entertaining. A welcomed curveball to mainstream watered down NBA analysis.

by Ball Chat on Feb 17, 2011 5:37 PM PST up reply actions  

I wouldn't mind having Kaman coming off the bench for a while

Then slowly moving him to the starter rotation.

I hate seeing that people wanted him traded away. Most seem to forget he was an all-star last year and the best scorer on the Clippers

by Ricekrispy10 on Feb 16, 2011 10:51 PM PST reply actions  

Now is his chance

to prove he should be kept. Everyone (including myself) wanted Baron gone 2 months ago. Baron has proved his worth to me. If we start winning some games and finishing tough, then he’s got my vote.

by homercles on Feb 16, 2011 10:55 PM PST up reply actions  

i still think this team would be better with Kaman coming off the bench

we been used to Jordan starting and he does the dirty work along with Blake… as far as Kaman he would be a huge boost to our weak bench because he can create his own shots better than Jordan as if we put Kaman back in the starting lineup our starters compared to the bench will be too lopsided because Jordan won’t be as effective off the bench he’s only a threat when he compliments Blake in the front court when they are both on the floor together

by Brian Ahmed on Feb 16, 2011 11:10 PM PST via mobile up reply actions  

With EJ back in the starting rotation

I might agree with you to an extent! But if Clips want to be a legitimate playoff team, Kaman off the bench is a big no no! Also, before being a legitimate playoff team we gotta get a better starting SF

We are the Clippers! What else is new?

by Jayq on Feb 16, 2011 11:16 PM PST up reply actions  

i'm assuming Gordon will be back

with everbody healthy this is what i will do

by Brian Ahmed on Feb 16, 2011 11:30 PM PST via mobile up reply actions  

These kinds of arguments are unneccessary

Whether Kaman comes off the bench or starts does not and should not have to affect how or where the scoring comes from when the so called “second team/bench players” are in. This is merely a matter of time management. If Kaman starts and plays the first 6 minutes with the starters, then comes back in with the bench at the beginning of the second quarter he fullfills both the units in the first half, by doing essentially the same thing but with a different skew in the second half you create a lineup to end the game of Davis, Gordon, Gomes, Blake, and Kaman. That unit has a much better shot of closing out games than one with Jordan inplace of Kaman.

So if you’re worried about points while the so called 2nd unit is in use a mix
EXAMPLE: Pending Foul trouble and other scenarios
12:00 to 06:00 1st – Davis, Gordon (Foye), Gomes, Griffin, Kaman
05:59 to 03:00 1st – Bledsoe, Gordon (Foye), Aminu/Butler, Griffin, Jordan
02:59 to 00:00 1st – Bledsoe, Foye (Gomes), Aminu/Butler, Griffin, Jordan
12:00 to 08:00 2nd – Bledsoe, Foye (Gomes), Aminu/Butler, Diogu/Cook/Smith, Kaman
07:59 to 05:00 2nd – Davis, Gordon (Foye), Gomes, Griffin, Jordan
04:59 to 02:00 2nd – Davis, Foye , Gordon (Gomes), Griffin, Jordan
01:59 to 00:00 2nd – Davis, Gordon (Foye), Gomes, Griffin, Kaman or Davis, Foye , Gordon (Gomes) , Griffin, Kaman
12:00 to 08:00 3rd – Davis, Gordon (Foye), Gomes, Griffin, Kaman
07:59 to 05:00 3rd – Davis, Gordon (Foye), Gomes, Griffin, Jordan
04:59 to 02:00 3rd – Bledsoe, Gordon (Foye), Gomes, Griffin, Jordan
01:59 to 00:00 3rd – Bledsoe, Foye (Gomes), Aminu/Butler, Diogu/Cook/Smith, Kaman
12:00 to 08:00 4th – Bledsoe, Foye (Gomes), Aminu/Butler, Diogu/Cook/Smith, Kaman
07:59 to 04:00 4th – Davis, Gordon (Bledsoe), Gomes, Griffin, Jordan
03:59 to 02:00 4th – Davis, Gordon (Foye), Gomes, Griffin, Kaman
01:59 to 00:00 4th – Davis, Gordon (Foye), Gomes, Griffin, Kaman or Davis, Foye , Gordan (Gomes), Griffin, Kaman

Minutes breakdown: +/- 2 minutes
Griffin – 38
Gordon – 36
Davis – 29
Gomes – 29
Kaman – 26
Jordan – 22
Bledsoe – 19
Foye – 16
Aminu/Butler – 12
Diogu/Cook/Smith – 10

The is it is onthe coaches to put the best lineup in the game for the majority of the game, that’s a major reason winning teams win. Kaman is part of the Clippers best lineup option over Jordan. If Jordan had a jumpshot he actually used and made with any sort of regularity, then you may have an argument for putting him ahead of Kaman.

Get out of my House!

by ECFIVESTER on Feb 17, 2011 6:33 AM PST up reply actions  

Kaman was a sight for sore eyes

Would it be totally blasphemous to suggest Kaman coming off the bench? Our bench desperately needs scoring and once Gordon is back, Kaman could be that scorer off the bench. He has proven that he can consistently put up the points but what worries me is his inability to pass out of the double team.

In any case, its great to have him back and even better to hear that the team is almost at full strength.

by AtotheZ on Feb 16, 2011 11:03 PM PST reply actions  

I think we can start off with him off the bench

then ease him back into a starting role.

"It's better to be an optimist who is sometimes wrong than a pessimist who is always right"unknown

by bestclipfan on Feb 16, 2011 11:18 PM PST up reply actions  

Yea

But if fully healthy I think he’s the starter. Deansre has shown a lot like bled. Coming into the season I wasn’t even sure if he’s be a reliable backup, now he’d be one of the vest second string centers in the league. I’m still not all against trading kaman if it makes us a better teams, but I think his value is should still be pretty high.

by osamu on Feb 17, 2011 1:30 AM PST via mobile up reply actions  

With Kaman coming of the bench, he would be double teamed even more

You don’t want to run your offense through Kaman (turnover waiting to happen). You want him to recieve the ball 8-15 foot from the basket with 8 seconds on the clock and his man away double teaming. He would be a perfect kick-out option for Blake.

A perfect bench scorer would be someone who can create for himself and be “un-doubleteamable”. In that light EJ is more suited to be a bench scorer than Kaman is. I don’t think EJ shoudl come off the bench, but he’s more suited for it than Kaman.

by eelcova on Feb 17, 2011 3:40 AM PST up reply actions  

And the Lakers lose to the Cavs

It’s the night I thought would happen two nights ago! I’ll take the Lakers getting embarrassed anytime.

Bledsoe can be a spaz, but the dude’s got heart and he’s earning his minutes (all 30 of them, these days). I’m excited to have him around.

It’s in the back of my mind that we might want to pony up and resign both our centers, which probably would entail riding out the next couple years with no upgrade at the 3 spot. I won’t have much of an opinion until we see more of Kaman. But I wouldn’t be too surprised to see it happen.

"i know huh........freakin clippers man.....its like a wild ride rooting for this team....gotta love em....(sometimes) lol" In GrIfFin We TrUsT

by SilverClip on Feb 16, 2011 11:06 PM PST reply actions  

lakers losing to the cavs

makes the defeat agaisnt the cavs much more painfull, it would have been epic if they lose the streak to them.

by XXDC2XX on Feb 17, 2011 8:08 AM PST up reply actions  

i understand how the "Kaman as a scorer off of the bench" makes sense to some

but, from the bench, Kaman cannot take double teams away from Blake Griffin.

i mentioned before, who does the opposition choose to double team?
the center who scored 20 ppg last season or the power forward who is scoring 22 ppg this season?

pick one. that means the other is one on one.

"Energizing the process, or turning it upside-down, fans now participate, writing blogs and posting comments and videos [...] the dialogue is to discourse what road rage is to driving." -Mark Heisler

by falconPUNCH on Feb 16, 2011 11:07 PM PST reply actions  

Kaman can come in when Bledsoe does for Baron

Blake is still in half way through the 2nd, I don’t see a problem with this

by Ricekrispy10 on Feb 16, 2011 11:10 PM PST up reply actions  

+1

With a starting lineup that includes EJ, Kaman, and BG the BG triple teams will be completely gone! You double team any of them and they will make you pay! Also, the Clips should see less zone defenses, which is our kryptonite

We are the Clippers! What else is new?

by Jayq on Feb 16, 2011 11:10 PM PST up reply actions  

our bench is also weak though Kaman would easily give that unit a boost

Jordan has compliment Blake well where as he would’t be the same player off the bench because he won’t have any1 to draw attention away from him he’s not a scorer like Kaman is

by Brian Ahmed on Feb 16, 2011 11:14 PM PST via mobile up reply actions  

So Kaman would be our version of Laman Odom?

Coming off the bench but staying in the game during it’s most critical moments?

We are the Clippers! What else is new?

by Jayq on Feb 16, 2011 11:18 PM PST up reply actions  

good comparison

both are such are talents and such a threat in the froncourt but both can be frustrating at times

by Brian Ahmed on Feb 16, 2011 11:27 PM PST via mobile up reply actions  

An okay game that was enough to beat a sucky team

It’s just crazy how the rookie wall has jolted Aminu! I’m not saying bust just yet, but I’m super frustrated that he has regressed! Bledsoe is looking great out there! For a PG he is a great rebounder! He just needs to work on his court vision and learn when to freaking slow down lol!

We are the Clippers! What else is new?

by Jayq on Feb 16, 2011 11:14 PM PST reply actions  

I love bless hustle

But it has to be mentioned that occasionally you don’t want you pg to be deep under the basket hunting for the rebound. Luckily bled has that athletism to usually catch back up to his man. I have to say though, it’s quite refreshing to see a guard really have that desire to get rebounds, as opposed to the first few years of ej. Even ej has been worlds better this season too though

by osamu on Feb 17, 2011 1:34 AM PST via mobile up reply actions  

Clippers win and the Cavs beat the Lakers....can you say Party!

Kaman is back! EJ is soon to return! Playoffs here we come!!!!!!

We are the Clippers! What else is new?

by Jayq on Feb 16, 2011 11:20 PM PST reply actions  

this is such a relief win just stopping the bleeding before the all star break feels good

any Clip fan with common sense knows the playoffs is a pipe dream for us this yr but with Gordon and Kaman back we can play spoiler for the teams who are in the playoff mix… more importantly we might finally have a full healthy roster for the 1st time all season so it’s all about finishing the 2nd half strong and giving us a glimpse of how good we can be next yr

by Brian Ahmed on Feb 16, 2011 11:23 PM PST via mobile reply actions  

The Baron Bledose / DJ Kaman Analogy

SP, great call, this is exactly like earlier in the season where several fans had given up on BD and were ready to hand the team to EB. I agree that the DJ Kaman battle has turned into the same argument, hopefully we get the same results, a rejuvenated Kaman leading to more winning just like BD

by The Blake Griffin Era on Feb 16, 2011 11:34 PM PST reply actions  

I think DJ and Kaman

are much closer than Bledsoe and Baron at this point. DJ is more efficient offensively but can’t really create his own offense while Kaman can create his offense but his efficiency goes down with high usage. This off-season will be very very tricky with the labor dispute, DJ and EJ’s extension, the draft and Kaman’s situation.

Help us Altered Beast you're our only hope.

by ClipperChuck on Feb 16, 2011 11:47 PM PST up reply actions  

Kaman is far superior

DJ is obviously the more explosive player, but there’s no comparison offensively who is superior. Jordan just dunks, which is fine and all, but when you can’t make free-throws, it becomes a liability down the stretch. Kaman has legitimate post moves, can use both hands, and has a mid-range jumper.
 Which route the Clips take in the future with the 2 Centers is up in the air. Jordan looked ready to take over reigns in January during the many Clips games. However, he has been a non-factor during the road trip. Kaman is Kaman. When healthy, a great Center, one of the best in the West. However, like many other Centers around, his misses plenty of games due to inj. Maybe 7 footers just get injured more. That would be interesting to research.

This is going to be my team, and we're going to rise together.
-Clipper Darrell

by oasisman on Feb 17, 2011 12:59 AM PST up reply actions  

Therein lies the problem

Sure Kaman has more moves than DJ but do you really want to go to Kaman often? It would take some advance breakdown but probably on when he has single coverage. The team could be better give more shots to Griffin and Gordon. Kaman will shoot it twice as often as DJ and you have to call more sets for him. This means less shots for EJ who is the Clippers most effective scorer.

Help us Altered Beast you're our only hope.

by ClipperChuck on Feb 17, 2011 1:52 AM PST up reply actions  

That's one way to look at it

How about if Kaman were taking shots away from the likes of Gomes, Foye? The hope of having Kaman out there is to create easier shots for Griffin and EJ. I don’t mind a few sets of Kaman drawing the defense down low, creating space for Griffin to operate or EJ to stick the jumper. Or vice versa. With both Griffin and Kaman in, the defense can’t double team.

by Piatkowski on Feb 17, 2011 4:19 AM PST up reply actions  

+1

they will probably still double team, but they will double team griffin, kaman is not so TO prone when single covered, the triple teams to griffin would dissapear.

by XXDC2XX on Feb 17, 2011 8:24 AM PST up reply actions  

Impossible to have both

If he is taking shots away from Gomes and Foye then teams will still double team because they will come off of Foye if doubling Griffin or Gomes if Kaman is hitting and is on fire. There will not be any triple teaming for sure unless the they wait for Blake to make his move and force him out.

If he is setting up EJ and Griffin then shot selection will be there a double team is still likely because teams will force Gomes to shoot. With all three it will be who is how hot or not but the biggest fix may still be to upgrade the SF spot .

by KillaClip on Feb 17, 2011 9:27 AM PST up reply actions  

Different argument we have won games with DJ starting

Even went on a franchise strong home streak that boosted Griffin to All-Star status by the coaches. Jordan is raw but Bledsoe as a PG is very raw and it’s not really his fault playing next to Wall he is more of a combo guard so he is going to have to learn the point duties as he goes along. A better comparison with less actual proof would be Bledsoe/Warren we have seen in the D-League and slight minutes Warren has some strong court vision he may not be what the team needs in scoring but if he can keep up the assists numbers and play next to Bledsoe he may be a better fit controlling the ball on the second unit.

Last night showed Jordan is not going to lay down and give his spot back to Kaman which is a great sign he showed the effort and hustle he shows at home in that Minny game. No doubt the return of Kaman sparked urgency to be more aggressive and he sparked the 3rd quarter run with his defense to put the game in a more comfortable position.

by KillaClip on Feb 17, 2011 9:18 AM PST up reply actions  

+1

I have to admit I didn’t watch the entire game. The play was so bad at times I had to turn channels. Minnesota just sort of mailed it in. Their all-star break started early. And, for all of the Clip fans who complain about VDN, how would like to have Kurt R as coach? His days have to be numbered.

by Mike Wr on Feb 17, 2011 8:11 AM PST up reply actions  

The Clippers will trade Kaman

Kaman came back to showcase that he is physically OK.
There is a week to go on the trading deadline. The Clippers are not going to pay $12,000.000 or over 20% of the teams payroll for a player to come off the bench. the Clippers need a Small Foward,

by Vegas Mike on Feb 17, 2011 5:17 AM PST reply actions  

Willing to wait and see but . . .

Look, I hate it too. Honestly. I’ve been rooting for Kaman to come along for just as long as anyone else reading this thread.

I do agree with the argument that seven footers with real skills are rare in this league, and that he’s one of them, but until he improves the mental aspect of his game, the bumps and bruises and missed games are going to frustrate us in the long run, especially in light of the 12 mil. price tag that Vegas Mike just reminded us of.

My excitement over dealing him comes with my belief that his trade value is especially high, and that DeAndre is an exceptional talent with the potential to grow. I agree that right now his game is nowhere as complete as Kaman’s – WHEN healthy and WHEN on point mentally. But for me, those are both very big “WHEN’S”. His inconsistency in both areas have just really worn on me over the years, and I have a hard time believing he’ll be able to stay healthy enough to justify his price tag, even if he does find a way to stay on point mentally.

I’m not sure the comparison to the Baron Davis situation is a fair one as Baron has, to the best of my memory, shown much more value (and especially health) over the years.

I do agree fully that have not yet seen the real effect of Griffin on Kaman yet, and God willing he’ll be healthy enough for the rest of the season to give us that opportunity. And maybe Vinny will be able to keep him healthy by spelling him with DeAndre for major minutes. There’s also the prospect of using both of them on the court from time to time with Griffin (if he’s comfortable at the 3 spot for short stretches), which would no doubt be quite a large and scary line-up for any team to face. Those three guys on the court with Baron and Gordon is downright salivation material.

But as Don King likes to say, “this is all just speculation, and that is something we simply do not do.”

At least until we see the proof in the pudding.

Very much looking forward to having our full team back after the break, and to watching our boy Griffin absolutely DOMINATE the slam dunk competition this weekend.

Any news on the cryptic post-game phone call he received last night that upset him after the game? Hope he’s ok.

by JGloria on Feb 17, 2011 6:22 AM PST up reply actions  

Comparison to Baron

I think the comparison to Baron speaks a little to team payroll, age, and leadership. The issues aren’t just health. Veterans should be leading by example and should be reliable in critical on and off court situations. (Supposedly Blake’s hard work ethic has inspired DJ to work harder – and Blake is in his first season playing)

Baron as the team leader, a 13 mil 10 year veteran, comes into the season in horrible shape. That speaks to how well Baron was mentally prepared for this season and how well he understands his role and motivation for playing. Is that what you expect from your leader? It seems Baron is taking on a team leader role, which speaks to his mental character.

Kaman’s Mr. Flippy alter ego reflects his mental consistency. I think some of the comparisons between Kaman and BD are valid. I am now hooked on BDs style the past month. I hope same happens with Kaman.

by homercles on Feb 17, 2011 7:22 AM PST up reply actions  

My God...

Kaman has only played 10 minutes and we are praising him like an All Star again. Are we sure Mr. Flippy isn’t hiding out behind the curtain? Let’s give him a few games to see what happens. Maybe sitting for so long and seeing the team pass him by (when EJ is playing) the last couple months will give him a better perspective of his new complementary role as a 3rd option instead of a 1 or 2.

by PV Mike on Feb 17, 2011 7:16 AM PST reply actions  

Very strange to bring him back...

without putting him through a single practice first. Also, why not just let him rest up until after the All-Star break (as the Wolves did with Beasley)? Definitely seems like they made him play last night only to send out a message to other teams that Kaman is healthy.

by ReignMan on Feb 17, 2011 7:53 AM PST reply actions  

Argument for trading Kaman

Like everyone else I was glad to see Kaman back last night. And he certainly looked pretty good for being out so long. I’d still like him to not rely on the jumper so much (Why didn’t they work the ball to him in the post at all?) But i’m still on the trade Kaman badwagon and in reality it doesn’t have alot to do with what Kaman brings to the team as much as what other parts of the team need upgraded.
I think most here would like the Clips to re-sign DJ. Especially at a reasonable price ( $6M per year). But even if the Clippers do that they will have almost $20M tied up in the Center position next year. This raises two issues. First, would DTS invest that much money on one position? What if he doesn’t want to pay DJ with Kaman still around? It’s something that needs to be considered. Such is the life of a Clipper fan. Second, your team can have success with that much money invested in one position (would probably end up about 30% of the Clippers salary next year) But you have to get production from every player. And with Gomes, Foye, Aminu, and Bledsoe the Clippers have alot of minutes going to alot of inconsistent play.
Keeping the team as is will not allow the Clippers to make any upgrades. Even with everyone completely healthy, motivated, and decently productive, I just don’t believe this team is a lock for the playoffs next year. And that has to be the goal. And while big men depth is a great assest, it’s probably not a luxury the Clippers can afford right now.
Trading Kaman is the best option because he still has value. The reasons people argue to keep him are also great reasons as why to trade him. You can get back something of decent value. Even if its one player and some cap space. I’d even consider trading him for expiring contracts and go into the offseason with $11-12M. There are some good players that will be available. Veteran SF’s ( Prince, Kirilenko, Battier), Guards who can bring in some scoring off the bench (JR Smith, Crawford), even another rebounding monster to add to the front line ( Kris Humphries) If the Clippers can move one assest and add 2 or 3 more, the team will be significently better going into next year.
Guess it all comes down to opinions. We’ve seen Kaman play for 7 years, we know what he brings. We’ve seen this team play this year, we know where the strengths and weakness are. Does the combo of those two equal success? I just can’t see it.

by Beasel on Feb 17, 2011 7:56 AM PST reply actions  

argument for waiting

I don’t really see Kaman value really high right now and i wouldn’t trade him for expirings, that is in my opinion just crazy, unless someone takes gomes and foye also in the deal. Kaman’s contract is over in 2012 same as Deron, who according to rumors have the clippers as 1 of his options when leaving utah, if utah doesn’t want to lose him for nothing kaman should be part of a deal for him next season. Anyway his value will only increase as an expiring contract. I don’ see a reason to get Humphries and lose Kaman, what’s the point of loosing a better rebounder that also scores, to a backup PF, when we have smith a diogu. I say we wait, Kaman value can only get higher.

by XXDC2XX on Feb 17, 2011 8:44 AM PST up reply actions  

the problem with waiting

To me there are 3 scenarios that play out if the Clippers keep the team as is:
First, they play really well and are a playoff lock. In this case Kaman is probably a big reason why so you wouldn’t want to trade him.
Second, they’re a fringe playoff team that still needs to add a couple pieces. Trading Kaman would be a great move because he is an expiring and could bring back some valued players. But thats the situation now. Why would we go through another half year to come to the same conclusion?
Third, the team continues to struggle and is in the lottery again. Now your trading Kaman and you’ve wasted another year of Griffin and Gordon on their rookie salaries.
I understand the excitement of the idea of Deron Williams in 2012 but that’s a year away. And is in no way a lock. You should never assemble your team based on what MAY happen next year. I want the Clippers to win next year and then if the opportunity to get Williams is a reality, you do what you have to.
Also, Humphries is a way better rebounder then Kaman and a much more efficient scorer even if he doesn’t have all the talent. A three man big rotation of Griffin, Jordan, and Humphries would be beastly.

by Beasel on Feb 17, 2011 9:35 AM PST up reply actions  

i want to go to the playoffs next season

but i rather wait if that means assembling a tittle contender.
The difference between trading Kaman know and next season is that his value has to be low now, if we can get a good player for him, say iguodala i am all for it, just not for expirings.

by XXDC2XX on Feb 17, 2011 9:38 AM PST up reply actions  

I’m fine with trading Kaman to upgrade the team. But your initial post said you would be comfortable trading Kaman for cap space. Cap space does not improve the team as we found out last off-season.

You should never assemble your team based on what MAY happen next year.

You mean like trading away Kaman for cap space and hoping to sign somebody good in the off-season?

by Michael White on Feb 17, 2011 9:40 AM PST up reply actions  

This is why you don't argue with people who are smarter then you

You end up contradicting yourself in back to back posts and look like a dumbass.
All I can say is at least we know who the Free Agents will be this summer. We know who’s available, who has the skills to help improve the team and we can choose what we want to pay for them. As I indicated below I’m not that high on Kaman and I think there are some good players that help the team. Now if the Clippers swing and miss in free agency again and end up with Poo-Poo Platter 2 then a Kaman trade is a bad move. I’m willing to give it another shot.

by Beasel on Feb 17, 2011 10:25 AM PST up reply actions  

he doesn't sound like a dumbass

and you are being kinda aggresive for no reason. He is actually right you are agaisnt waiting a year to try and get deron but it is okay to give kaman away for a chance at battie, prince, wallace ??

by XXDC2XX on Feb 17, 2011 10:45 AM PST up reply actions  

I wasn't talking about him.. I was making fun of myself

I know I contradicted myself a bit..
I read alot of what MW post on here.. he knows what he’s talking about.

by Beasel on Feb 17, 2011 10:54 AM PST up reply actions  

I didn’t think you were calling me a dumbass at all.

No worries.

by Michael White on Feb 17, 2011 10:58 AM PST up reply actions  

I wouldn't insult someone i've never met or spoken with in person

Unfortunently… I have met myself.

BTW, I know its hard to guess with the new CBA coming up, but with the expectations that everything will be scaled back some do you think the Clippers could get Prince, JR Smith, and Humphries for $12M or a little more?

by Beasel on Feb 17, 2011 11:30 AM PST up reply actions  

Not really, I don’t think you could do that. Prince will get near MLE and I don’t think Smith will be that far behind.

Now, if could turn Kaman into Prince, Smith and Humphries, I’ve got absoultely no problems.

by Michael White on Feb 17, 2011 11:40 AM PST up reply actions  

Is that with the new CBA?

Owners have taken a pretty direct stance (hard cap, franchise tags), the players stance is “Let’s keep everything the same”. Even if they meet in the middle things are going to be different. And what happens when the players start losing out on paychecks? I believe things are going to lean towards the owners. And the first players to feel it are going to be this year’s free agents. (this is why Melo NEEDS his extension). $6.5M for Prince and Smith, maybe $4.5m or $5m after the new CBA??
I think my main reason for being OK with trading Kaman for expirings is that there aren’t going to be alot of teams looking to add salary after the new CBA. Being one of the few teams out there who can is a good place to be.
Just for arguments sake, let’s say the new cap remains at $58M. The Clips will probably have $4-5M to work with. If they trade Kaman for expirings they’ll have around $15M – $16M. Prince, JR, and Humphries seem a little bit more reasonable now?

by Beasel on Feb 17, 2011 12:20 PM PST up reply actions  

oh,my bad :)

now that i read it again i don’t know why i didn’t see that.

by XXDC2XX on Feb 17, 2011 10:59 AM PST up reply actions  

Maybe Sterling won't pay both

and if that’s the case, he’ll instruct Olshey to trade Kaman. Worrying that Sterling will let the cheaper player (Jordan) walk because he doesn’t want to pay both seems misplaced. If Sterling wants to run the team on the cheap, Kaman will get traded.

Keeping the team as is will not allow the Clippers to make any upgrades.

Perhaps. If that were the case though I would try to take on salary at the trade deadline and get over the salary cap. That will allow the team to make an upgrade via the MLE and you get to keep your depth at the Center position. And you point to the current team not being a playoff team and that might be true, but trading Kaman for cap space and signing Prince still leaves you with a huge hole, now it’s your backup Center. And the center you’ve pinned your future to in Jordan has plenty of holes in his game not least of all his inability to stay out of foul trouble and to stay on the court. There will be alot of minutes for a backup Center so it would be nice if we had one.

We’ve seen Kaman play for 7 years, we know what he brings. We’ve seen this team play this year, we know where the strengths and weakness are. Does the combo of those two equal success? I just can’t see it.

Maybe you can’t see it, but you didn’t explain that in your paragraph above. Kaman’s range and post play sure seems like a good compliment to me. The last few games we’ve seen what happens when teams just focus on stopping Griffin and Jordan wasn’t able to take advantage of all the attention BG was getting.

by Michael White on Feb 17, 2011 9:03 AM PST up reply actions  

DJ is not the focus when teams double Blake because Jordan is not open

Foye and Gomes have to make teams pay because their man leaves them to double Blake. Only time another big comes to double Blake is if he has made his move and is going up to finish a lay-up or dunk in those cases Blake can not pass in mid air or if he reads the play Jordan will get his put back dunk or his under hand tip in.

by KillaClip on Feb 17, 2011 9:08 AM PST up reply actions  

Agree with you on DTS and DJ

If Sterling like’s DJ he’ll make Neil trade Kaman. Our he’ll spend the money. Your right probably not something to get too worked up about.
The Clippers could reach the cap if some other team is willing to make a salary dump. Say Butler and a 2nd rounder for someone who makes around $6 – $7M. Is there anyone like that available? (besides Childress and I don’t want to start that up again) It is a possibilty but I don’t know if there’s anyone that is a decent upgrade. And a lot of thing’s I’ve read about what the expectaions are for the new CBA is that the MLE will be eliminated or cut back. Keep Kaman, add a salary dump player, use little bit of cap space and possible MLE to add one more player. I can live with that. It’s an effort to upgrade the roster. That’s all I’m asking for.
Obviously the last part is just my opinion. I’m just not that high on Kaman as others (maybe i’ve been spending too much time checking out Wins Produced :-) To me Kaman is an inefficient scoring Center who is an average rebounder and shot-blocker. Everybody gets excited when he makes a jumper but he misses alot more then he makes. I don’t believe Kaman pulls attention away from Blake. In fact if I’m defending the Clippers I want Kaman to keep shooting jumpers.
The Clippers look like a 35 win team. They’ll probably need about 45-47 wins to be a playoff team next year. They need to add pieces. If they can do it by keeping Kaman, Great.. I’m on board. But the easiest way seems to be to move him. Of course you have to make the right moves

by Beasel on Feb 17, 2011 9:58 AM PST up reply actions  

Yes, but a good SF would solve the shooting problem as well

"[Fans are] not technically a lot of times savvy. They don't understand and they don't weigh issues the way that [I] weigh them."
Mike Dunleavy, Sr.

by Jax on Feb 17, 2011 11:15 AM PST up reply actions  

Even when he has a good game

Foye still annoys me. He just always seems to have the “I have to chuck it” (Lil Chucker) mentality when on the court. I guess I shouldn’t complain too much as I could be screaming at Sebastian Telfair each game instead. I am surprised the Clips didn’t sign ST no a horrible long $5-7 million dollar contract.

by PV Mike on Feb 17, 2011 8:03 AM PST reply actions  

Think I actually hate Foye more

Bassy could at least handle, dish, and run the offense OK as a backup PG. Foye — at least this year’s Foye — is a chucker who can’t shoot straight.

Proudly enduring the pain since the days of Bill Walton's foot.

by boltsfan21 on Feb 17, 2011 3:06 PM PST up reply actions  

Kaman Rocks!

He will open things up offensively and with EJ back, the potential is scary!!!

by rouse77 on Feb 17, 2011 8:28 AM PST reply actions  

Find the Baron/ Bledsoe to Jordan/Kaman to be poor comparison

Bledsoe has none of the qualitys of a pure PG which the team needed during the U23 experiment and he has not crafted his game decision wise to be a scoring PG that can distribute and lead a team to wins.

DeAndre Jordan on the other hand has/had the tools this season to hold down the starting position as a defensive anchor and unlike Bledsoe his play as a starter has lead to wins. The team with Gordon was also one of the top defensive teams before hitting the road trip. We almost broke a Clipper home game winning streak with Jordan at the starting position people use the road trip as an excuse to why Kaman is better than Jordan for the team when the entire team has been playing poor the entire trip outside of Baron.

Also the franchise and commentators were behind Jordan as a starter and even the media as of late during the win streak because of his defensive play and just for the fact that without a doubt he is a better compliment to Blake Griffin. Huge myth is Jordan does not allow Griffin spacing, teams double off of the perimeter with Gomes and Foye the big reason they get so many open shots every game and the reason we lose many games as of late because it’s inconsistency on whether or not they make their open shots.

05-06 is a risky year Kaman because it was his most effiecent year as a scorer it was his second highest turnover per game and his highest fouls per game year.

by KillaClip on Feb 17, 2011 9:02 AM PST reply actions  

The Second Unit Problem as a Clipper Problem

The Clips probably won’t have a motivated and effective second unit until they become winners. I can see the argument for having a couple of sub all-stars (Baron and Kaman) coming off the bench as well as having Gordon and Griffin starting. But Baron’s an alpha-male type who wouldn’t take gladly to coming off the bench for a losing team and Kaman’s not that great at passing out of the double-teams he’s sure to see. And who’s done that well as a reserve for the Clips anyway.? The teams with great benches are largely in the hunt for the title.

Given that the Clips aren’t going to have great reserves anyway, I think BD, Gordon, Griffen, and Kaman should use the rest of the season to learn how to play together for VDN. That way, they won’t have to completely start over again next year.

But that doesn’t mean the Clips should stand pat. The Clips are a small forward and some togetherness time away from being a first tier organization. Given all the Blake buzz, the Clips have a chance to attract the talent and they should strike while the iron’s hot and trade their Minnesota pick for a significant upgrade at small forward. There’s a lot of guys out there who can help and the list includes Carmelo Anthony, Gerald Wallace, Tayshaun Prince, Stephen Jackson, and others. The Clips need to take the risk, overpay, and get a trade done for the 3 spot.

by Ric Caric on Feb 17, 2011 9:21 AM PST reply actions  

why should we overpay for any of them

if the minny pick is gone i want an all star caliber player in return.

by XXDC2XX on Feb 17, 2011 9:25 AM PST up reply actions  

Why?

Chances are that if you kept the Minny pick you won’t be getting an all-star player out of it. The draft is a crap-shoot and many more prospect fail than succeed.

by Michael White on Feb 17, 2011 9:30 AM PST up reply actions  

Because

we are not winning a championship without 1 more piece, we have griffin,gordon and we need one more, that player has to come from the minny pick, i hope as part of a trade for CP3,Deron, Howard or as a player in the Draft. walalce, prince or jackson won’t do the trick, maybe iggy.

by XXDC2XX on Feb 17, 2011 9:33 AM PST up reply actions  

I understand that you’d want more value from the Minny pick. But that’s not a realistic expectation. Why would a team give you a star in exchange for a VERY remote chance of drafting another star?

by Michael White on Feb 17, 2011 9:36 AM PST up reply actions  

they obviously wouldn't want that

just as denver doesn’t WANT to trade melo. but iguodala for the pick +aminu and kaman doesn’t sound crazy. If Deron pulls a carmelo next season the pick could be a valuable asset to have in a trade. we have wait a lot for that pick, one more year won’t kill us, i just don’t see why we have to tradie it NOW it’s not as if the wolves are getting any better. Besides 2012 draft is gonna be loaded beacuse of players not declaring for this one.

by XXDC2XX on Feb 17, 2011 9:41 AM PST up reply actions  

Do the Clips Need Another Star?

I don’t think so. Compare to the Heat. Gordon and Griff are at least the equivalent of Wade and Bosh already. The Clips also have clearly better point guard play and two superior centers. What they need is a small forward who can get 15-18 a game, play tough D and knock down a healthy percentage of all the wide open 3’s they’re going to get. That draws the Clips at least even with one of the top 3 teams in the league and would give them a slight edge in my mind.

Why do it now rather than later? In my opinion, the time to strike with a small forward trade is now while Blake buzz is creating an aura of optimism around the Clips. If the Clips wait, the current lineup is still at least a year away from being a consistent winner as Bledsoe and Aminu and the continued losing would get interpreted as “the same old Clippers” and deter Prince-class forwards from signing extensions. Trade for one of those guys now and the Clips would have an excellent chance at becoming consistent winners next year and the buzz would continue to grow as major free agents come on the market.

DoubleXetc. poses signing CP3 and Deron Williams as possibilities, but there is no way anything like that is going to happen if the Clips are still losing and the Clips are going to keep losing until they have better play at the 3. That’s why trading for a sub-star level small forward would be the best thing for the Clips right now.

by Ric Caric on Feb 17, 2011 5:27 PM PST up reply actions  

i think we need at least one close star player

1.DoubleX sounds horrible, why the hell did i pick that name.
2.Deron is accoring to romours stated he would come to the clips and even by doing nothing we should contend for a playoff spot next season, also Baron is kinda old and i don’t trust him to continue on that level for 3 seasons. I don’t pose signing them, but trading for ethier next season when they make clear to Utah and NO they are leaving next season (this is me assuming, but i doubt Deron will stay after the Sloan problem).
3. A SF like Prince won’t make us contenders in the next few years and will be too old when the core develops. An elite PG makes us contenders and will be in his prime when EJ and Blake are.

by XXDC2XX on Feb 18, 2011 9:56 AM PST up reply actions  

I seriously feel we have a bi-polar blog here. And I tell you why.

The majority here scream for Kaman’s blood, and after a ten minute stretch, against Minny no less, we’re “as happy as anyone that DeAndre Jordan has stepped up and played well in Kaman’s absence, but there’s little question as to who is the better player”.

Enough of this.

Kaman may be better than DJ currently, but as a team aimed at the future, this isn’t relevant. We played the best basketball we have in years, with a 9 game home winning streak, with DJ as the center. He needs time to grow into his role. Just like Blake, and just like EJ has.

Kaman’s pick and pop may spread the floor a little for Blake, but there’s no question DJ and BG are Baron’s best finishers. DJ is what this team will need to compete for a championsip, and he WILL get there. Perhaps by next year.

No more blown bunnies, Kaman needs to go. I’m not saying for garbage, but there is a deal out there, most likely over the offseason, that will make this team better.

"Buckle your seat belts, folks. This one's going down to the wire." -The inimitable Ralph Lawler.

by Gordon for President on Feb 17, 2011 10:00 AM PST reply actions  

You quoted Steve, and I don’t believe Steve ever called for Kaman’s blood or even advocated a trade. In fact, I’ve caught Steve a few times defending Kaman in his absence with the exact same position he had in the recap, that he feels Kaman is better than DJ.

by Michael White on Feb 17, 2011 10:07 AM PST up reply actions  

And I'm agreeing Kaman is better than DJ, invidually, at this point.

But that doesn’t mean he’s the better fit for the team.

"Buckle your seat belts, folks. This one's going down to the wire." -The inimitable Ralph Lawler.

by Gordon for President on Feb 17, 2011 10:09 AM PST up reply actions  

What is it that makes DJ a better fit? He has two talents, flashy dunks and weakside blocks. This makes him a good fit for highlight clips, but as a member of the starting 5, he’s a weak link. I like him as a backup but have no faith that he’s going to develop even average offensive skills or become a good man to man defender.

by ClipCat on Feb 17, 2011 1:38 PM PST up reply actions  

With EJ in the lineup...

All we need DJ to do is block, board, and dunk. Which is what he was excelling at when we were firing on all cylinders.

I also love the BD lobs as pure gravy. We need a Kendrick Perkins type power player down low, DJ can do that.

"Buckle your seat belts, folks. This one's going down to the wire." -The inimitable Ralph Lawler.

by Gordon for President on Feb 17, 2011 2:19 PM PST up reply actions  

As for the game, there’s nothing quite like a meeting against the Timberwolves to get a struggling team back on track.

isn’t this what other teams think when they play us?

by Worlock on Feb 17, 2011 10:22 AM PST reply actions  

LOL

"[Fans are] not technically a lot of times savvy. They don't understand and they don't weigh issues the way that [I] weigh them."
Mike Dunleavy, Sr.

by Jax on Feb 17, 2011 11:18 AM PST up reply actions  

I almost had a Mr. Flippy sighting last night

There was one brief moment under the basket where Kaman seemed confused and just like Sybil Mr. Flippy almost replaced Chris Kaman. To his credit he worked his way out of it. Still a long season to see if Mr. Flippy engulfs the body of Chris Kaman or if he was exorcised out the past 2 months!

by PV Mike on Feb 17, 2011 10:33 AM PST reply actions  

Big man syndrome

Seemed like Kaman kept DJ on his toes. I think having both we could bring out the best by means of competition. The thing that worries me is kaman is injury prone and has cost us the playoffs this year more or less. Big man syndrome is like a disease it makes you fall in love until they go down and you realize how much money you are paying them. Let’s see we have Oden, Bynum, Yao Ming, Kaman, etc. teams are afflicted with this syndrome that can lead to long term problems. Kaman’s work ethic concerns me, seems like he came into this season flat and got injured by being out of shape. The fact that he didn’t come back until recently show me that he doesn’t care about winning. This is a red flag, we are building a winner with blake and gordon, kaman could be a disaster for us by flaking next season. Personally I say we trade him and try to get tougher players that are willing to grind it out over these tough clipper rebuilding years.

wine um, dine um, 69 um

by flightofthegriffin on Feb 17, 2011 1:56 PM PST reply actions  

I think you're wrong...

By most reports Kaman came in in good shape and had an excellent training camp. He did not however play well in the first dozen games or so. Then he got injured, tried to come back and was re-injured. I don’t think this has anything at all to do with work ethic. He might be injury prone, but I don’t really think you would have said that before last year. He was on the court a lot his first five years.
I like the potential of Kaman and DJ tag teaming at the 5, and finding minutes at the 4. That might be a luxury if you had a couple of max guys or a logjam at another position, but you don’t. Gordon, Griffin, Aminu, Bledsoe, and Jordan are still on their rookie deals, and only Jordan’s deal is up this summer. Craig Smith, Ryan Gomes, Cook and Diogu are relatively cheap or dirt cheap. I have no idea why, unless a huge, practical deal for a high quality small forward presents itself, you would want to trade Kaman. You saw it last night, he’s good and he’s been pretty good or real good for most of the last seven years. He’s clearly better on both ends of the floor than DeAndre Jordan… and I think Jordan could really learn and benefit from Kaman’s presence.
Kaman makes the Clippers better than anyone currently out there.

by John Raffo on Feb 17, 2011 6:41 PM PST up reply actions  

I don't...

Kaman has a history of injuries stemming mainly from planar fasciitis going back 2 seasons before this recent injury, played 31 games 08-09 and 56 games 07-08. His career averages are 11pts 8 rebs so sounds like an average player to me not better than anyone currently out there. You’re right about not having a logjam we have a gaping hole in our team at the 3. No one besides gordon can consistently make outside shots. If there is one thing that sticks out about kaman’s career is that he’s inconsistent, some years he rebounds well some he doesnt some years he scores well some he doesn’t. We need a consistent reliable wing player to knock down shots not an inconsistent huge contract center. Not saying we give him away for nothing but we need better wings on this team more than another center.

wine um, dine um, 69 um

by flightofthegriffin on Feb 17, 2011 8:15 PM PST up reply actions  

You said Kaman came in out of shape...

And you questioned his work ethic. You are wrong about that.
The guy played 76 games last year averaged 19 and 9 and made the all star team.
Overpaid? I’m not sure. When he’s right, he’s the rarest breed, a talented center who plays both ends.
You think an Iguodala or a Prince is worth an even-up trade? Or that they will provide more than Kaman? I’m not. Is there someone else worth trading him for? Who?

by John Raffo on Feb 17, 2011 8:39 PM PST up reply actions  

Iguodala

is definitely worth trading Kaman for value wise. He’s a good player who has a okay contract that lasts for 3 more years (after this one). He also just turned 27 so he’s in his athletic prime for the life of the contract.

Prince not so much… as he’s getting into that risky age for SFs and you only get 26 games to evaluate him. It’s unlikely unless they trade Gomes or Foye but the Clips could just sign him outright as an actual free agent. Kaman’s expiring contract could be valuable next season as well so getting a rental in Prince doesn’t make as much sense. So there’s a real chance you end up trading Kaman just for cap space in a pretty weak free agent market.

Help us Altered Beast you're our only hope.

by ClipperChuck on Feb 17, 2011 11:21 PM PST up reply actions  

Hmm... is that what you're advocating?

Interesting scenario but dumping a talented 5 for cap space seems a risky move… unless you’ve got a free agent or trade piece you’re ready to haul on board.
I’ve forgotten Iguodala’s salary numbers, but does he hurt the Clippers long range plan? (And by that I mean resigning Gordon and Griffin.) I feel certain bringing in an Iggy means you’re kissing Baron goodbye in two seasons… unless you can sign BD for something like the MLE. If’ Baron can stay on the court and average 12 and 8 into his mid-thirties, he’d certainly be worth shorter money.

by John Raffo on Feb 18, 2011 1:40 PM PST up reply actions  

If I could choose

I’d rather spend the money on an elite PG like Deron Williams. Of course, so would most teams.

"[Fans are] not technically a lot of times savvy. They don't understand and they don't weigh issues the way that [I] weigh them."
Mike Dunleavy, Sr.

by Jax on Feb 18, 2011 1:45 PM PST up reply actions  

Iguodala's contract

expires a year after Baron’s (well actually the last year is a player option so he could be a free agent the same time as Baron). Gomes contract expires the same year as Baron’s, Foye’s the year before. Then its up to the FO to figure out if they want to pick up the options for Aminu and Bledsoe. So short story the team can afford to add Iguodala without pushing them into luxury tax territory.

http://hoopshype.com/salaries/philadelphia.htm

Help us Altered Beast you're our only hope.

by ClipperChuck on Feb 18, 2011 3:47 PM PST up reply actions  

I want us to keep Kaman, too

I’d love to have two centers of their caliber. It might mean riding it out with Gomes and Aminu, but I think that would work out fine, at least for next year. In any case, I’m down with doing nothing for the rest of the season. Kaman will still be an attractive piece over the summer, and in the meantime I want to see how are pre-season starters actually play together.

"i know huh........freakin clippers man.....its like a wild ride rooting for this team....gotta love em....(sometimes) lol" In GrIfFin We TrUsT

by SilverClip on Feb 17, 2011 9:46 PM PST up reply actions  

Don't stand pat

use up the 4.1 in cap space to pick up some picks from the luxury tax teams. There are 7 teams out there who can save a lot of money by trading that 12th or 13th guy on the bench. Or it could be a Big Z situation where the Clips negotiate a buyout after and that guy returns to his original team on a minimum contract.

Orlando – Earl Clark (makes 1.9 million, 3.8 million in savings for them)
Dallas – Deshawn Stevenson (4.1 million, 8.2 million in savings for them)
Boston – Marquis Daniels (2.47 million, 4.9 million in savings)
Denver – JR Smith for Rasual Butler (difference of 3.7 million, 7.4 million in savings)
Utah – CJ Miles (3.7 million, 7.4 million in savings)
Houston – Jared Jeffries for Craig Smith and Rasual Butler (difference of 2.2 million, 4.4 million in savings)

Earl Clark, Smith and Miles are interesting young players. The bird rights to Smith could be useful while Miles has a reasonable team option of 3.7 million next year. Earl Clark is only in his 2nd year and could be a decent prospect the team can look at for 2 months. If they like him they can pick up his option for 2 million.

The older veterans can negotiate a buyout and return to their old teams. Clips can pick up cash and/or draft picks for helping them save a lot of money.

Help us Altered Beast you're our only hope.

by ClipperChuck on Feb 17, 2011 11:40 PM PST up reply actions  

Ugh

no the Camby thing was just about cash. I don’t really care if the team makes cash out of this unless they use the cash on the roster. Had they used the money from Camby last year to buy the Bledsoe pick then its cool. If it magically disappears again then the fans are getting screwed by Sterling again.

Help us Altered Beast you're our only hope.

by ClipperChuck on Feb 18, 2011 3:51 PM PST up reply actions  

Smart

Olshey should have some PR motivation to do something better with that cap space.

"i know huh........freakin clippers man.....its like a wild ride rooting for this team....gotta love em....(sometimes) lol" In GrIfFin We TrUsT

by SilverClip on Feb 18, 2011 9:50 AM PST up reply actions  

Mostly agree

Though I wouldn’t be that keen on Stevenson (sucks) or Smith (complete lunatic). I’d still prefer to see them clear enough cap space to be able to offer a better free-agent SF an above-MLE deal, but if they can’t, then this would definitely be my preferred Plan B.

Proudly enduring the pain since the days of Bill Walton's foot.

by boltsfan21 on Feb 19, 2011 3:13 PM PST up reply actions  

Missing all of these game, but happy to hear Kaman is back.

Bad to hear we lost to the Bucks. I knew we lost to the Raptors. EJ and Smith shouldn’t be far from coming back.

by tenkaistar on Feb 17, 2011 3:16 PM PST reply actions  

Well, that's good news

Source? The day that the Clips play at full strength, the goal posts will do jumping jacks.

"i know huh........freakin clippers man.....its like a wild ride rooting for this team....gotta love em....(sometimes) lol" In GrIfFin We TrUsT

by SilverClip on Feb 17, 2011 9:37 PM PST up reply actions  

Kaman plays 10 minutes against a very bad team and this means something?

The guy is injury prone and makes 12 million. Trade him before he reinjures himself. He is a potential Yao Ming liability. EJ should not be signed beyond one year and has not proven his worth. I would give Ike Diogu more minutes. He is 6ft 9 and 250 pounds. He has shown that he can rebound and score. Diogu is a more effective offensive player than Jordan and would sign for a cheaper price

by dontex on Feb 17, 2011 8:38 PM PST reply actions  

I thought the same thing, but...

does he mean “DJ”?
Kaman played 75 games last year, this whole “Yao Ming” thing is idiotic. I’m ignoring dontex.

by John Raffo on Feb 17, 2011 8:44 PM PST up reply actions  

Could mean DJ...

still, FO said that DJ was a project and that he is ahead of schedule so I still think that the statement doesn’t make much sense. Like other comments I’ve read where people are saying that DJ should be some top flight C in his third season. The guy hasn’t played this many minutes before and you can see all the young guys hitting the “wall” right now. Some(Griffin, Bledsoe) are powering through, while others are still struggling.

Talk about what have you done for me lately.

by OptimusDimes on Feb 17, 2011 8:54 PM PST reply actions  

CAVEMAN!

Sooo happy he played good. I love the Caveman. He’s very a great asset and all the people that wanted BD out are now eating their words. The Caveman is going to do the same to those that doubted him.

by hiclippers on Feb 18, 2011 2:54 AM PST reply actions  

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