The Glove Fit...In SeattleMaybe it's perception. But doesn't it seem like players move around the NBA at alarming speeds these days? I mean, sure I'm not the fan I used to be. And, no, I don't play fantasy basketball, so I may not be as up on rosters as the die-hards. But for years now, I haven't been able to keep up. Gary Payton played somewhere other than Seattle? Gimme a break (yes, I know technically he did). C'mon, Antoine Walker's still a Celtic. Wait, he's really on the Grizzlies?
Maybe I'm just behind the times and the game has passed me by. But, perhaps, you're like me? If you're having trouble keeping tabs, here's a rundown of new faces in new places. Test yourself blind. Kids today?
The Mighty Ben Wallace. Seems like just yesterday he was the most feared defensive player in the game. He was a Pistons fixture. The question wasn't whether he would dominate on D, the only matter for discussion was how he'd wear his hair. Now, he's a Phoenix Sun. Wait, huh?
Ah yes, Jason Kapono. The fixture of the All-Star Game weekend three-point shooting contest. A nice little player off the bench for the Heat. Oh, right, it's right there in front of me: I meant the Raptors. Hmm...he also played in Charlotte and Cleveland. Ladies and gentlemen, your newest Philadelphia 76er!
Speedy Claxton. Remember him 'cause he was a Hofstra product and a sparkplug off San Antonio's bench. Turns out he was only there a year. It was Speedy's second stop and would be followed by Golden St., New Orleans, Oklahoma City, Atlanta and now...back to Golden St. Who knew? Seven teams in nine seasons. Speedy is right.
Jamal. Promising youngster with the Bulls...I mean, Knicks...I mean, Golden St., I mean, the 29 year-old Atlanta Hawks guard? If you say so...
Ahhh, Krazy Kurt. Loved him as a Knick. Surprisingly consistent jumper. Also, never committed a foul in his career (according to him) -- always got a kick out of that. Miami. Dallas. New York. Phoenix. Seattle. San Antonio. Next stop? All aboard for Milwaukee. Ugh. Even Krazy Kurt doesn't deserve that fate.
Mike Miller. Anyone, anyone? Yes, I would've gone Grizzle as well. I'd forgotten he'd also played in Orlando before that, and Minnesota last season. It's OK, though, because he's a Wizard now. Duh.
I always remembered Lue and those dreadlocks. Ask me one team he played for and there would admittedly be a moment of hesitation (or possibly several moments). I think I would deserve a pass. Lue has managed to stay in the NBA for 10 years. Ready for this? Lakers. Wiz. Magic. Rockets. Hawks. Mavs. Bucks. Now, he's gone Magic round two.
Last but not least in our latest round of moving pieces, our boy Q. The days as a sharpshooting threat in wide-open Phoenix are long gone. Enjoy Memphis, buddy. Poor guy.
These are just the recent folks who've shipped around. I know there are plenty of players who I still imagine are playing for a team they likely took the floor for four teams ago. Hit me with some of yours.
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