Yardbarker: Travis Outlaw

Duking It Out at the Three In Portland

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 01:58:32 -0500

A Daily Babble Production Despite Nate McMillan's best attempts to downplay its significance (http://blog.oregonlive.com/behindblazersbeat/2008/09/outlaw_webster_provide_best_ma.html), this year's Portland Trail Blazers training camp looks to have arrived complete with a full-blown position contest, and - surprise! - it isn't between Joel Przybilla and Greg Oden for the center spot. Travis Outlaw and Martell Webster are battling it out for the chance to be the Blazers' starting small forward this year. As we discussed (index.php?option=com_content task=view id=3860 Itemid=260) earlier this offseason, Outlaw has a strong desire to start and promised this summer that he would return to camp a much-improved player. He says he has been working tirelessly on his jump shooting and seems to truly believe that this is the time for him to make a jump into the group on the floor at tip-off. Webster has sworn to be focused on becoming a more consistent player and improving his all-around game. Both say they just want to contribute no matter their respective roles, that the starting issue isn't critical. But both 6-foot-9, 210-pound forwards want the top job, and only one of them can have it. We'll give the points and lean with Webster, the favored incumbent. Read More.....

Big-L, Little-a, Marcus

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 12:29:13 -0500

I feel like this should be an open letter to the rest of the Association. See, while everyone (including Portland Trailblazer's hype machinists) is so focused on the continued ascension of BRoy, the debut of Gregor Oden, the arrival of Rudy F. Baby and Jerryd Bayless, I can't help but feel like that Longhorn alum, Texas native, and 2006 Big 12 Defensive player of the year, LaMarcus Aldridge gets lost in the hustle and bustle. Make no mistake, Portland fans appreciate this man. We appreciate the crap out of him, because for about 8 years we watched, loved… tolerated Rasheed Wallace. He was an All-Star for us. He led us to a Western Conference Finals, and within 1 quarter of the NBA Finals and ultimately an NBA Championship. Most of us really didn't even care that he accumulated Technical Fouls at a clip that would make Dennis Rodman blush. Little-a, is our Rasheed Wallace redux. Only this time we get a star that has all the tools to be an All-Star sans the baggage. And LA's numbers in his second year are already better than Sheed's in either of his 2x All-Star years here in Portland. Everyone who has been around Aldridge recognizes his work ethic and determination to improve. His college coach Rick Barnes noted that he's never seen a player work so hard to becoming better. (*Side note: LaMarcus Aldrige is probably the first athlete from UT at Austin to work hard… it is a resort there, and I think sports stars weren't meant to apply themselves extracurricularly) And it clearly worked, he went from a season ending injury as a freshman to leading the 'Horns to the Elite Eight the following year, a spot as a 3rd team All-American, and the aforementioned Conference Defensive Player of the Year. His roll hasn't slowed since joining the pro ranks. My boy on the inside with the Blazers expects LA to have a Monster year. He's been a beast in the offseason every year, and is determined to help his team win, but also to joining his teammates with some acclaim on the national level. I don't doubt that he will continue to improve on his numbers. From season 1 to season 2, his stats received significant increases: points +8.8, assists +1.2, rebounds +2.6, and almost a half a steal more per game. The presence of a dominant Oden in the pivot only serves to improve LA's opportunities, and Little-a says he stretched out his range to the arch, so you can expect him to not only increase his % numbers, but to help open up the middle for Oden as much as Oden will sink defenses to free up LA. Little-a was already a horse. Brought an all-around game that arguably made him the most valuable Blazer. He could very well have rested on his laurels. Many professionals do. What many pro's don't do is be this good and this versatile this early, many don't go out and get better every day. So while one might say that Blaze Nation has too many young talented players, what we also have is a consistent, reliable, and quiet rising star. Take notice everyone. LaMarcus Aldrige is rolling, he's going to bring his team and whole Upper Left Coast with him, and he doesn't look like he's slowing down. p.s. Ask Sean Williams how he feels about trying to stop LA.

Blazernation Travis Outlaw needs our help

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 12:26:40 -0500

I'm done. I'm done hearing all the rumors and talk about Trout being traded. I'm simply done with it. This guy needs our help, I think we all agree we want him on our team, more so then ever. Really can the blazers survive without him, yeah probably, but do we want to? No. This guy provides a spark, he is the ignition to this team, think how much he helped last year in that 13 game win streak, how many games did he win for us? A ton ! We really need to put these trade rumors to rest. We have a PG, we don't want Kirk Heinrich, it would be nice to have Mike Conley, but not at the expense of Travis Outlaw, sorry Mike. We have a slue of guys that can run the point now, why is this such a big deal. I understand the team is built around the PG, but in my eyes this team is built around BRoy, and to me he should really run the show. Look at the L*kers, they got to the Finals with a guy that has a name that you cant pronounce, and DFISH. Now DFish is good, but in my book Steve Blake and DFish are riding the same train. So this is what we need to do BlazerNation. Instead of everyone buying BRoy, Oden, Aldridge, swag we need to buy everything OUTLAW. When we go to games bring the Troutlaw signs back, lets let KP and Paul Allen know how much he means to us. Let the front office see a stream of revenue that comes in because of Outlaw. I love KP, and in KP we trust, but the front office needs to stop putting this kid off. Let him know we want him, stop making him wonder about whats going on. To Nate, give him minutes. You give this Southern boy minutes and he will give you gifts called wins. He is an offensive monster, and his defense is underrated. Let him play, lets not lose another one, like we lost Jermaine Oneal. If he goes to a team that gives him 30+ minutes he will turn into an all star. My lineups change all the time but in no way should Martell start over Outlaw. Here is the roster for opening game: Steve Blake - PG Brandon Roy - SG Travis Outlaw - SF Lamarcus Aldrigde - PF Greg Odem - C Second Unit Jerryd Bayless / Sergio Rodriguez - PG Rudy Fernandez - SG Martell Webster - SF Channing Frye - PF Joel Pryzbilla - C Does anyone disagree with me that Trout should start over Martell? I do understand that Trout has a certain spark off the bench, but if he comes off the bench he should still get more minutes then Martell. So Nation what do you say? Trout should stay, Trout should stay, Trout should stay, Trout should stay! Bring the WOOT SAUCE!

An Improved Outlaw Coming Soon?

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:46:50 -0500

A Daily Babble Production Jason Quick over at The Oregonian has written an excellent piece (http://blog.oregonlive.com/behindblazersbeat/2008/08/rain_dampens_outlaws_day_not_o.html#more) on Blazers forward Travis Outlaw and his hometown of Starkville, Miss. It's a very well-reported story, and it provides a lot of depth about the player and his personal background. But the part that jumps out is Outlaw's commentary on his aspirations for the seasons to come. Quick quotes Outlaw talking about how while he is primarly concerned with helping the team win, he isn't entirely comfortable with the role of sixth man and doesn't want to be stuck with it forever. He's worried about his shot attempts dropping with the entrances of Jerryd Bayless and Rudy Fernandez to the second team backcourt, and he would like to have some more freedom from Nate McMillan to shoot the jumper. All of this comes with a promise from Outlaw that observers will see a much better player this season, that he'll be a better scorer and rebounder in the year to come. He'll need to do exactly that if he wants to become a starter in this league. Read More.. (index.php?option=com_content task=view id=3860 Itemid=260)All of Steve's daily posts can be found in the...

Blazers 2008-09 Season Preview

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 18:57:44 -0500

2007-08 Finish - 41 wins, 41 losses, 3rd place in the NW Division, 9 games out of the 8th and final playoff spot in the Western Conference. Projected Starters: PG-Steve Blake SG-Brandon Roy SF-Martell Webster PF-LaMarcus Aldridge C-Greg Oden Key Reserves: SF-Travis Outlaw PG/SG-Jerryd Bayless SG-Rudy Fernandez C-Joel Przybilla PF/C-Channing Frye Bottom 4: PF-Ike Diogu-energy guy (think Turiaf-lite) that won't get much PT. SF-Nicolas Batum-Very young, very raw. I'm seeing some D-League in your future, young man. PG-Sergio Rodriguez-Get your resume updated ASAP. I'd start here then work towards this after a few years of experience. You're welcome. Practice Dummy: SF-Luke Jackson-The rumor of his preseason/practice signing has not been confirmed by the Blazers' Brass yet, but either way, i cant really say much about playing 73 games in 5 years of NBA contracts as the #7 pick in the draft...other than he has a career .357% FG percentage. Maybe he failed a drug test? You know, he did go to a nationaly recognized school after all. Season outlook, thoughts, and things to look for in 2008-09: If you've seen the schedule for the upcoming season then you understand getting off to a great start will be difficult. Portland's first 5 games are @LA, SA at home then @PHX the next night, @Utah, then home against Houston. Starting 0-5 isn't out of the question. Oh, and 16 of Portland's first 24 games are on the road. Take that, season ticket holders. With that said... I expect Portland to come out of the games slow and would have said that even with an easier looking schedule. the reason is that the Blazers will have three rookies who will want and need to be playing prominant roles next year and for years to come. Greg, Jerryd, and Rudy all look to be important pieces to the puzzle and look even more important as B-Roy continues his streak of injuries. A .500 record for the first 24 games would be great considering only 8 of them will be at home and of course learning to play with one another. Portland will have growing pains but i expect them to finish the year strong and make some noise in the western conference playoff picture. With some of the lesser teams getting better i doubt it will take 50 wins to get in the playoffs next year but it will still likely take 46-49. If Portland starts 12-12 then can go 13-12 on the road the rest of the way, the Blazers could be in the thick of things given their home success. This is where I project them finishing and can really see this happening after playing with each other for a couple months. But, what will the 8 seed get you in the West? A series with the Lakers. How fun would that series be? Blazers/Lakers games have been heated since the turn of the century, this one would be no different. Side note: A Blazers-Lakers round 1 playoff series is very possible this year. If Portland's current roster is the one that will get them to the playoffs and beyond, one of two things will absolutely need to happen in my mind and I feel the second on this list most important (and very attainable). First, Travis Outlaw needs to build off his breakout season and become comfortable in the 6th man role. What does he need to work on? He needs to rebound better and slash more from the perimeter if Portland is intending on giving him many more minutes at the 3 as they said they would do early this summer. The Blazers really need a defender on the wing so Travis would have to develop defensively if he wants to be part of the big 3. In reality, Travis looks to be best suited as a guy who comes off the bench and provides a spark as we seen him do last year (just ask fans in Atlanta, Memphis, and Toronto how they feel about TO). This is a roll he's been good at in the NBA and I think his ceiling isn't much higher then last season. Blazer fans, this is a good thing - he won't command more dollars then Portland is willing to pay him. 6th men are very important in this league and finding one who is able to take and make game changing shots is very limited. Some TO highlights for your viewing pleasure to follow... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzckjCIzlO4 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kzq4ozGwoOM Second, Martell Webster. We've all been waiting for Martell's breakout season since he was drafted #6 overall in 2005. What do the Blazers need out of Martell for him to keep his starting spot and role as the 4th/5th best player in the starting unit? Three things; the ability to hit the open jumper, be Portland's best perimeter defender, and continue slashing like he did towards the end of last season. I see no reason he can't do these things on a more consistent basis, especially knowing he will only see 25-35 minutes of court time on a given night. We've all seen him shoot the rock, we know he can do that (see below). We also know he has the ability to attack the rim. What we haven't seen is enough ability to consistently be our top perimeter defender. Because we watched flashes of this last year I think a breakout year is on the brink. I have a feeling Martell will turn out to be the 3 that Portland needs to compete at the next level. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMVXnJDBtnI http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Anm3JEG6B2E The new additions: Oden, Bayless, Fernandez Greg Oden's health is obviously a major concern at this point. While nobody in their right mind doubts his abilities when healthy, taking a year off of basketball activity must be incredibly hard to overcome (ask D Miles). But, this is something that can be done (ask Amare Stoudamire). With how this surgery is progressing in just the last few years I'm optimistic Greg will be back and the knee will be as good as Amare's. If so, you can expect Oden to be a huge part of Portland's success. It's very possible that he averages over 12 and 10 with a block in his rookie season. That is, if he can manage to stay on the court (no Greg, fouling 9.5 times a game during the summer league is no longer okay). Early, and I mean real early, reports are that Greg and his knee look fantastic. I'm almost as pumped as I was when I seen B-Roy standing there after winning the lottery. What the Blazers need Greg to bring to the table in his rookie season is defense, a resemblance of an offensive game, and toughness. I think Joel should be able to take care of the latter during training camp. Jerryd Bayless looked great in summer league, winning MVP honors in Las Vegas. He proved he can score, slash, get to the rim with the ball, and play with intensity. The only problem with summer league performance is that summer league is home of rookies, D-leaguers, and scrubs (Yes, Tyrus Thomas and Joakim Noah, you're both scrubs). White I fully expect Bayless to contribute from day one with his speed and shooting ability alone, I expect it to take awhile for him to be able to run the point effectively and learn to defer to proven players on the team with NBA experience. In crunch time JB should develop into being the perfect complement to Roy. When you need a bucket late in the 4th quarter a lineup of Bayless, Roy, TO, Aldridge, and Oden sounds pretty potent. Bayless won't give you nightmares as a defender but his speed and lateral quickness should allow him to at least stay in front of most point guards in the NBA as the year goes on. Bayless should get both backup PG and SG minutes and his role will grow as the year goes on. Something like 8, 4, and 3 feels about right in his first year if given minutes. His scoring will be sporadic as he adjusts his not-so-fast jump shot release but will still make an impact on the offensive end. Rudy Fernandez has looked both great and questionable at times during the 2008 summer Olympics. I won't break down his play by play as i've seen on some sites but i will give my opinions about what I have seen so far. He gambles on defense. Against teams other then team USA his gambling usually leads to a steal and dunk or assist. Now, i'm not saying every team in the NBA is better then all the teams in the Olympics but, I would say all the teams that made the playoffs in the west would win this tournament (excluding team USA). Like Bayless, Rudy can stroke the ball from anywhere on the court and at times, unfortunately, he knows this too. A few shots he has taken are questionable at best and at times i think he gets caught up in the moment so much that he feels he's got to take that off balance three. One thing he has done really well is pass the ball - and not just passing it to pass it, but passing the ball with a purpose to the right spot at the right time. This has been pleasantly surprising. I've loved watching his feistiness and can't wait to see him in the NBA. We've all watched the you-tube videos of Rudy dunking, passing, and shooting and understand that he is a special player. But, will he stay in the USA? Will he stay with the Blazers with the growing talent at their disposal to spell B-Roy at the 2? I hope so. Stats similar to Bayless' sound about right during his rookie season. Let's play ball The only thing we can be certain about is what what Roy, LMA, Joel and Steve Blake bring to the table. These rolls won't change other than small changes in minutes per game. The question is how will the new comers gel and how will the Blazers veterans respond to their new roles? Can Martell be the guy on the perimeter that Portland needs? Only time will tell. Healthy knees permitting, the future looks brighter then ever in Portland an I for one will be there to watch. Article originally posted on August 21st, 2008

Rumors and Free Agent Updates - Sad News Edition

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 08:04:23 -0500

We start todays update with some very sad news. Former Portland Trailblazer Kevin Duckworth,44, has passed away. Duckworth was in Lincoln City to host a free basketball clinic for kids and was found unresponsive in his room. Duckworth was a two-time All-Star who starred on Western Conference Championship teams in Portland in 1990 and 1992 and was one of the most popular and most recognizable players to ever wear a Blazers uniform. There will be an autopsy to determine the cause of death. Our prayers and condolences go out to the Duckworth family and to the Blazers' organization and fans. Former NBA player, Wayman Tisdale. also 44, had part of his right leg amputated Monday because of bone cancer. Tisdale played 12 seasons in the NBA with the Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns. Tisdale is now an award-winning jazz musician and has been battling the cancer for over a year now. He is hoping that by removing the part of his leg with the cancer that he will be able to beat it and be able to resume touring soon. Thoughts and prayers also go out to Wayman Tisdale. Word is that PJ Brown might not be ready to retire just yet. He is leaving the door open for a late season return just as he did last year. As of right now, the Celtics have 15 players but by midseason it may be clear that one or more aren't going to live up to expectations and PJ could find himself recruited once again for the stretch run. Of course it is all conjecture right now but something to think about during the slow times. The Grizzlies gave Josh Smith an offer sheet that the Hawks quickly matched and they have been linked in talks to the Iranian center, Hamed Ehadadi, who is now available to talk to teams. Now there is word that they are in talks with the Knicks concerning Zach Randolph. The Grizzlies are willing to part with Darko Milicic who was their big free agent signing last year, in a package that wouldn't involve any of their core players. The Grizzlies seem to be debating whether Randolph would fit the team's style on and off the court but they definitely could use an inside player like Randolph. The Grizzlies have also been in talks with Portland. The Blazers need a point guard and the Grizzlies are loaded with them. The Blazers are willing to part with Travis Outlaw in return for a point guard. The Blazers would probably want Conley because he is the purest point guard that the Grizzlies have and Portland would love to reunite Conley with former teammate and best friend, Greg Oden. The Celtics made it official by signing JR Giddens to a contract. Giddens, whose defense and athleticsm are considered NBA-caliber right now, will be expected to fill in the void left by James Posey's departure to New Orleans. Hopefully he will live up to expectations and contribute this season. Dwyane Wade would like to see Mario Chalmers as Miami's starting point guard this season. The Heat will give him a chance to compete against Marcus Banks for the position. Miami also expects Chris Quinn back and may add a veteran. My money is on Chalmers beating out Banks, who hasn't come anywhere near reaching the expectations that Boston had when they drafted him. The Heat are also still considering big men with Jamaal Magloire, Lorenzen Wright, and DJ Mbenga all waiting for word from them. Mbenga has a minimum level contract to consider from the Lakers, but was hoping to get a little more from the Heat. Kobe Bryant is expected to decide when he will have surgery to repair the ligament damage in his right pinky finger by the end of this week. Bryant had hoped to be recovered from his surgery for the start of training camp but with camp starting on September 30 and his recovery will probably take longer than 4 weeks, he might not be 100% in time to start camp. Phil Jackson has coached Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Scottie Pippen, Shaquille O'Neal, Derek Fisher, Karl Malone, Rick Fox, Steve Kerr, Bill Cartwright, and other stars. But after receiving an honorary doctor of letters degree from his alma mater, University of North Dakota, Phil talked about the greatest athlete he ever coached and it wasn't any of the above. The player Jackson called the greatest that he has coached is that none other than Detroit Bad Boy, Dennis Rodman. That one leaves you scratching your head. That kind of analysis proves that all those championships he won wasn't because of his intelligence and coaching. After all, he did get way out coached by Doc Rivers this season and his best strategy was whining about the officiating.

Team Preview #16: Portland Trail Blazers

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 08:37:00 -0500

Rudy Fernandez vs. Jerryd Bayless and a Greg Oden poll... LAST SEASON The Blazers had a 13-game win streak in December and boasted a 22-13 record at one point, but finished at an even .500, which wasn't bad considering they lost their prized #1 pick before the season. If you've wondered why Portland hasn't been a haven for fantasy stars in recent years, just look at their pace factor under Nate McMillan: 87.9 in '07-08 (29th), 88.3 in '06-07 (29th), and 87.6 in '05-06 (28th). As a result, the Blazers ranked 27th in scoring, 25th in rebounds, and 23rd in FG attempts last season. OFFSEASON MOVES Key Additions: Rudy Fernandez, Jerryd Bayless, Ike Diogu, Nicolas Batum Key Losses: Jarrett Jack, James Jones, Josh McRoberts, Darius Miles The Blazers were busy on draft day, as they traded away Jack, McRoberts, and their #13 pick (Brandon Rush) to Indiana for Ike Diogu and the rights to Jerryd Bayless. Kevin Pritchard has said that Bayless is "like Jack on steroids," so he sounds like a pretty solid replacement (for now or down the road?). In college, Diogu dominated the Pac-10 like few power forwards have done before him, but he's yet to blossom in the pros. He's still only 24 tho, so if he finds his niche and lands in the right situation (is his 3rd team the charm?), I could see him playing a productive role. Portland picked up a French forward with serious upside (Batum) later in the draft, and also received FOUR future 2nd round picks for Pritchard to play with. At small forward, the Blazers are going to miss the sweet shooting of James Jones, who signed with Miami over the summer. Fortunately, they're bringing in one of the most talented & seasoned European players to replace him in Rudy Fernandez. They've also signed swingman Luke Jackson, which is notable simply because he played college ball at Oregon. Darius Miles hasn't played since 2006, but he recently signed a non-guaranteed contract with Boston and Portland will be watching him closely. If Miles makes the team and plays in 10 regular season games, Portland will lose the $18 million (over 2 years) in cap space that they received when they waived him due to a "career-ending" injury. ROTATION / PLAYING TIME I would love to watch a preseason game or two before predicting Portland's rotation, but no worries… This team is led by Brandon Roy, the 24-year old who reps the Pacific Northwest to the fullest (born and raised in Seattle & a Washington Husky). He underwent arthroscopic surgery to repair a partial tear in the meniscus of his left knee earlier this month and is expected to be out 4-8 weeks, which sounds kind of scary at first, but Brandon sounds pretty optimistic in this recent interview. If he's good to go, he'll average 37-38 minutes per game just like last year. In that interview, they also talk about Portland's tough schedule to open up the season, which pretty much solidifies Steve Blake as the opening night starting point guard if you ask me. He averaged 29.9 mpg last season, and I'll project him to play 30-32 minutes to start out '08-09. Jerryd Bayless turned some heads in the Vegas Summer League, but after watching Rudy Fernandez play in the Olympics, there's no doubt in my mind that the Spaniard will be the first guard off the bench for Coach Nate. I'll project Rudy to get 16-20 minutes right off the bat backing up both Roy & Blake, which leaves maybe 8-10 minutes left for Bayless & Sergio Rodriguez (more experience and also a Spaniard) to fight over. We'll come back to these guys in a minute. There's a new man in the middle for Portland, as Greg Oden is set to make his long-awaited NBA debut. I'll project 28-30 minutes for November-December, 30-32 minutes for January-February, and 32+ minutes for March-April. Backing him up is the veteran Joel Przybilla, who will see his minutes fall from 23.6 to well under 20 this season. Raef LaFrentz is their dusty secret weapon, but we can always reminisce about his last days in Denver (3 blocks & 1.5 threes per game before getting traded to Dallas!). At power forward, LaMarcus Aldridge should see 34-36 minutes of action, while Channing Frye backs him up. Diogu is the odd man out for now, but he's just one injury away from finding his role. At small forward, Martell Webster (21 years old, 28.4 mpg) and Travis Outlaw (23 years old, 26.6 mpg) will battle it out once again. Outlaw actually played a lot more power forward last season, but thanks to Mr. Oden, there's a squeeze on minutes. Long-time readers know that I'd prefer the gazelle to start, but McMillan said they needed Outlaw's scoring punch on the 2nd unit last season. With scorers like Rudy & Bayless (and even Diogu) now coming off the bench, that point is a little less valid, which is why I think the battle will come down to defense. My prediction? Webster will start on opening night and play 26 minutes to Outlaw's 22. But when Portland endures their first long losing streak, they will turn to T. Outlaw, who will seize the opportunity and play 28+ minutes the rest of the way. DON'T SLEEP ON: Rudy Fernandez If you're still sleeping on Rodolfo Fernandez, please click here. As you can see, the guy isn't afraid to attack the rim and he can score from pretty much anywhere on the floor. He has a weird quick release and likes to shoot off-balance, but just check the stats if you don't think his style is effective. In Spain's top ACB League, Fernandez played in 30 games last season and put up the following line: 21.2 points, 4.1 assists, 2.2 steals, 3.0 threes, 49.2% FG, 41.1% 3P, 91.4% FT Those are some very impressive numbers, especially when you consider that he did it in just 28 minutes of action. In the Gold medal game against Kobe & company, things were no different, as Rudy dropped in 22 points on just 13 field goal attempts in only 18 minutes! He also made some sweet passes, handled the rock well, and looked great moving around without the ball. DraftExpress gives Fernandez a Best-case comparison to Kevin Martin (I remember DX raving about Kev-Mart's offensive skills well before he was drafted by the Kings), and I think that comparison is SPOT ON. Rudy might not get huge minutes to start the season, but at some point during crunch time, he, Roy, and Outlaw are going to play together and something will click into place. Along with Aldridge & Oden, I imagine that being Portland's best lineup, but if you wait too long to see it, Rudy might already be gone in your league. So don't sleep! BE CAREFUL OF: Jerryd Bayless If any "fantasy experts" are hyping up BOTH Fernandez & Bayless to start the season, I suggest you call SHENANIGANS, because there's no such thing and it's not gonna happen. Yes, the Wildcat averaged an impressive 29.8 points in 4 Summer League contests and seems to be an explosive scorer, but he stands just 6-feet-3 with shoes on and sports an average 6-3 wingspan. This means that he's supposed to be a combo guard, but in those 4 games, he dished out just 5 assists to 15 turnovers. His 1.36 assist-to-turnover ratio in college wasn't much better, so I'm definitely not sold on Jerryd's point guard skills. Which means that he's currently just an undersized shooting guard. And the last time a 20-year old (Bayless was still 19 a week ago) undersized shooting guard had fantasy value as a rookie was ??? Blake isn't very flashy, but he's a dependable veteran PG who's going to get his minutes. And Rudy & Roy make for an extremely versatile backcourt duo, so unless Roy's knee gets worse and he has to miss some games, I think you can safely ignore any "Jerryd Bayless = sleeper" talk. ROUND BY ROUND TARGETS (Where you should draft these guys in an 8-cat Roto league with 12 teams and 14 man rosters) Roy: 5th - 6th Oden: 5th - 6th Aldridge: 6th - 7th Blake: 12th - 14th Outlaw: 13th - 14th Fernandez: Last round Webster: Last round (if you need threes) Bayless: Don't draft (but watch if Roy can't play) Click the link to vote on Greg Oden's fantasy ranking!

To Seattle, Love, Your Portland Trail Blazers

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:19:59 -0500

Dear Seattle, I really do feel bad for out neighboring fans up north for having the PooperSonics oops I mean SuperSonics stolen from you. So I am going to take it upon myself to introduce you to your NEW Northwest franchise "The Portland Trail Blazers". Now don't worry these guys are easy to love. But I do have a few things you need to be prepared for before you come over to the scarlet and black side. To start things off comfortably I want to remind you of a few familiar faces you should all know of. (These guys really are great not only have they lived in your beloved city, but they also saw the light was a lot brighter when you drive south down I-5/I-205.) Paul Allen- Owner/Multi-Billionaire. Paul is one of the best owners in the league. He attends over half of the games during the season and once he sees a contender window opening he is not afraid to open up that pocket book. He loves athleticism and up tempo basketball. Nate McMillan-Head Coach/Mr. Sonic As you all know Nate is one of the best coaches in the league. A former Sonic himself which also had his number 10 retired in the rafters. Now don't think that we can just retire #10 now that your Sonics are extinct. Besides thats Joel "Tha Thrilla" Przybilla's number. But if we can get a title or two maybe we can do something for him. Maurice Lucas-Ass.Coach/Frmr Sonic "The Enforcer" is better known as a Trail Blazer. But I do want to recognize that he wore a Sonic uniform to. Luc plays an important role in developing the bigs. Brandon Roy-SG/All Star/UW Husky Here is a Seattle born boy you all will be proud of. I don't need to speak much of him because you all should already know. But in our eyes he is our next "Clyde the Glyde". In a few years we should see "The Natural" on the Olympic team and maybe a Wheaties box. Martell Webster-SF/SeattlePrep Another Seattle product. Martell is a great young talent. A fan favorite, and he has the smoothest jump shot this side of the State of Massachusetts. Hard to believe he is only 21. Huge future for this cat. Although you will still need to be patient with him. He has improved his game both offensively and defensively every season. I live near the practice facility and I see his slick silver Chrysler 300 with the big shiny wheels all of the time which means he is a hard worker. So OK, how about that. We have a few Seattle natives in our organization. I hope I made you feel a little more welcome. Now before I introduce you to the rest of the guys we do have a few catchy phrases you will need to know. So next I will list a few of our broadcasters new and old along with where they came from etc.... Rip City!- Very popular phrase around town. Bill Schonley our legendary broadcaster of 30 years coined that phrase in the 70's. It can be used in many different ways. For example, if Greg Oden is doubled down low then kicks it outside to Martell Webster who then drains a three. You can scream out an emphatic RIP CITY!. Or if you want to sound a little more like "The Schonz" you can then follow up the "Rip City" with a "Yes Sir". OK now say it with me, "Rrrrip City,Yes Sir". Very nice. You may also use this any time the Blazers make a great play. Other Famous Bill Shonley phrases... Holy Backboard Lickedy brindle up the middle He took a hop, skip and a jump. Good evening basketball fans where ever you may be. Just so you don't get confused our current radio commentator is Brian Wheeler. Most of the new school fans only recognize the man known as "Wheels". He's a great radio personality and also has a few coined phrases of his own. (I will list them below.) He has been on board with the Blazers for about I believe 7 plus seasons. He probably will not reach the legendary status of Bill Shonley (Especially if every contract year we hear rumors of him talking with the Lakers.) but we are very lucky to have such a knowledgeable and dedicated broadcaster. He also has his own afternoon radio show on 95.5 The Game (www.955thegame.com) called Wheels After Work. You get little insider local trail blazer info and he always has great guests year round. I would recomend tuning in ASAP just so you can get familier with him. So like I mentioned before here are Wheels coined phrases you will need to get familiar with.... Wheels Phrases, Boom Shaka Laka! OOOOH That was nasty! Sloan looks Mystified, mortified, etc... Their are more but you will have to listen this season on 95.5 or online @ www.955thegame.com to get the full experience. We play all of our home games at the Rose Garden, I have linked Map quest directions for you from Seattle right here. (http://www.mapquest.com/mq/4-2gwxg5d8) It seems to be a three hour drive. But remember at the Rose Garden you need to plan to be early and stay late! Just so you are prepared Portland is a very knowledgeable basketball town. You may be able to get away with wearing a Seattle shirt for one season and we will be forgiving. But year two you better have saved the cash to purchase the scarlet and black. Keeping that in mind we don't want some fairwheater fan either. Seeing as we are going to be hanging some banners shortley you better educate yourself and be a loyal fan. How about now I introduce you to the rest of the guys. I really think we will have this roster together for a while so I think it will be safe for you to open yourself up to these guys. C) Greg Oden We don't know much about Greg yet. But from what we have scene is they don't make 7 footers like him. He will be a fast defensive minded shot blocking, rebounding machine. His offense should improve as he gets more experience. Having him ready this season is going to be fun to watch. PF) Lamarcus Aldridge LA or Stretch is a Texan with game similar to Rasheed Wallace and maybe a little Tim Duncan. He is not to their level yet. But last year in his first full season he averaged 18 and 7. He will be a great compliment to Oden on the defensive end next season. (Welcome to the block party.) He is also a great charicter guy. On another note it would be good to see him bulk up, just a tiny bit. And get a little more nastiness to his game. SF) Travis Outlaw T-Law or TrOut is a long freak of an athlete. This country boy from Mississippi can touch the top of the backboard. Not quite a Shawn Kemp. But he has improved his game every season in the league since he came out of high school. He has an improving jumper that extends out to the three. Very good fourth quarter producer with the ball in his hands. Defensively he is not that great one on one but off the ball he wreaks havoc. Still improving. SG) Rudy Fernendez "The Spanish Fly" is going to be a rookie this season. He has won many olympic medals and MVP awards overseas. He appears to have a nice step back jumper and can get to the rim. He is very thin so we will have to see how he holds up through the entire season. PG) Steve Blake Won an NCAA championship at the U of Maryland. Blake is just a solid point. Probably better suited as a backup. But he shoots a good percent, makes good desitions and is an underrated defender. C) Joel Przybilla Tha Thrilla is a great rebounder/shotblocker. Offensively you will hold your breat unless he dunks it. He is a great team player and can probably kick Shaq's butt. (His hobbies include Kickboxing) Has had a handful of 5 plus block games. Also 15 plus rebound games. Will be the best backup in the league once Oden is ready. PF) Channing Frye Channing is Mr. Happy Go Lucky. He is happy to be here. But will also be happy play more somewhere else. He is a very nice piece off our bench with his range, but could be one of the expendable guys also. He is a great interview if you ever get to hear him. PG) Sergio Rodriguez Spanish Chocolate was a spark plug his rookie year, but fell off the map last year. He easily could become your favorite with his Nash style, but he has shown he shoots terrible and cannot play D. Serg has a lot of improving to do to get into the rotation. He also has become a mental head case with a few comments he has made this offseason. PF) Ike Diagu Don't know much yet. We just got him from the Pacers. From what I do know is he is an undersized 4 that was an exceptional scorer/rebounder in college. Ike was a lottery pick, but has had injury troubles the past season. PG) Jerryd Bayless He is our prized rookie from Arizona. Slotted as a top 5 pick he fell to us at 11. He has a lot of developing to do but should prove to be a above average point in two seasons. Shoots well and can get to the rim, but needs to work on playmaking passing skills. Trade Bait, I mean PF/C) Raef LaFrentz I am not gonna waste time with his skill set because I don't know. He has not played hardely since he has been here. His huge 12 million dollar expiring contract will be dangled untill the deadline. But only if we need a certain peice. Well, thats the group. I do have some homework for you. The blazers have a handful of Euros overseas. Please research them and then you can post an anilazation of their games on yardbarker. Lets see have I missed anything... Oh yeah you must follow these simple 5 rules below. #1) Hate the Lakers #2) Any time Kobe touches the ball you must boo. #3) *Practice "In KP We Trust"* #4) Be a confident Blazer fan, not cocky #5) Thank Paul Allen for KP *Definition for #3* In KP we trust, means no matter how many trades or if it seems like a roster move does not make any sence at all. Always remember who turned Ratliff/Telfair/Khryapa and some draft pick swapping into BRoy and LA. The man who ridded Portland of the wanna be thugs, and drug addicts. The man who changed the Jail Blazers back into the Trail Blazers. We have to trust the man with the given name Kevin Pritchard. And always remeber to thank Paul Allen for finaly buying in to him as well. From, Your New Fellow Trail Blazer Fans! Please purchase your merchandise here http://www.nba.com/blazers/index_main.html

Oregonians 4 Blazer Games, petition against Comcast

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 13:57:18 -0500

We are signing this petition to voice our concern over the issue that most Oregonians cannot view our Portland TrailBlazer games. We wish that Comcast and the Satellite dealers would please settle whatever differences they have so us Oregonians could view our beloved team play. Please click the link and sign the petition. www.petitiononline/blazer22/ Thanks,

Travis Outlaw HIghlights Future All Star?

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 18:15:09 -0500

Found a great Travis Outlaw highlight reel, check it out!

Sunday's NBA Draft Rumors

Sun, 22 Jun 2008 16:18:29 -0500

Chris Broussard of ESPN the Magazine is reporting that the Detroit Pistons and Denver Nuggets have talked about a trade that would involve Carmelo Anthony heading north for Chauncey Billups and Tayshaun Prince. The deal was apparently offered by the Pistons, but shot down by Denver. The Boston Globe's Marc J. Spears asserts that the Miami Heat could be shopping Dwayne Wade the Bulls' way. According to Spears, rumor has it that the Heat would consider trading Wade, a Chicago native, to the Bulls for the #1 pick in the draft, Tyrus Thomas and Larry Hughes. The Heat would then have the top two picks, and could land both Derrick Rose and Michael Beasley. If that were to happen, Spears says that the Timberwolves would select UCLA forward Kevin Love at pick three. ESPN reports that the Suns will be busy on draft day. Rumors include Boris Diaw to the Raptors for T.J. Ford and the 17th pick, and Leandro Barbosa to the Blazers for Martell Webster and the 13th pick. The New York Daily News believes this isn't entirely out of the question, reporting that Portland is shopping that 13th pick. Suitors include the Suns, and the Memphis Grizzlies. A rumored trade includes the pick, Jarrett Jack and Travis Outlaw being dealt for Mike Miller. The Bergen Record thinks Danilo Gallinari is the Nets' man. BJ Pickard

Dunks + 3's + Steals + Blocks - Fouls = ???

Sat, 24 May 2008 05:22:57 -0500

(Here is my follow-up article to the '07-08 Slam Dunk stats). Which players throw down lots of dunks, but still have solid 3-point range? Which players rack up steals and blocks, but don't commit a ton of fouls? The ones with the most Divergent Skills of course! The "Divergent Skills Gauge" was created by USA Today several years ago. The leaders are some of the most athletic & versatile stars in the NBA. Click below to see who made the cut. *As an added bonus, you get to see why the Warriors are the most versatile team in the league (w/ a Mac Mall song to back it up) and why the Knicks suck so bad!

Top 30 NBA Small Forwards

Mon, 05 May 2008 12:23:52 -0500

When it comes to small forwards, LeBron James is king, with Carmelo Anthony right behind him. He confirmed that he's 6'9 and 260 pounds, yet he's fast and athletic. He had an MVP caliber regular season with 30 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 7.2 APG 1.8 SPG and 1.1 BPG. Unguardable 1-on-1, LeBron is only 23 years old, and is a force to be reckoned with in the NBA. Player (Current Team/Former Team) PPG, RPG, APG, SPG, BPG * = Best in Category (R) = Rookie Steals 1+ Shown Blocks and Steals Shown if both are 1+ 1. LeBron James (CLE) 30*, 7.9*, 7.2*, 1.8, 1.1 2. Carmelo Anthony (DEN) 25.7, 7.4, 3.4, 1.3 SPG 3. Caron Butler (WAS) 20.3, 6.7, 4.9, 2.2 SPG 4. Shawn Marion (MIA/PHX) 15.4, 10.2, 2.2, 2, 1.5 BPG* 5. Andre Iguodala (PHI) 19.9, 4.8, 5, 2.2 SPG 6. Ron Artest (SAC) 20.5, 5.8, 3.5, 2.3 SPG* 7. Paul Pierce (BOS) 19.6, 5.1, 4.5, 1.3 SPG 8. Gerald Wallace (CHA) 19.4, 6, 3.5, 2.1 SPG 9. Corey Maggette (LAC) 22.1, 5.6, 2.7, 1 SPG 10. Rudy Gay (MEM) 20.1, 6.2, 2, 1.4, 1 11. Richard Jefferson (NJN) 22.6, 4.2, 3.1 12. Hedo Turkoglu (ORL) 19.5, 5.7, 5 13. Stephen Jackson (GSW) 20.1, 4.4, 4.3, 1.3 SPG 14. Josh Howard (DAL) 19.9, 7, 2.2 15. Mike Dunleavy (IND) 19.1, 5.2, 3.5, 1 SPG 16. Luol Deng (CHI) 17, 6.3, 2.5 17. Andrei Kirilenko (UTA) 11, 4.7, 4, 1.2, 1.5 18. Peja Stojakovic (NOH) 16.4, 4.3, 1.2 19. Ricky Davis 14, 4.3, 3.4, 1.1 20. Tayshaun Prince (DET) 13.2, 4.9, 3.3 21. Marvin Williams (ATL) 14.8, 5.7, 1.7, 1 SPG 22. John Salmons (SAC) 12.5, 4.3, 2.6, 1.1 SPG 23. Shane Battier (HOU) 9.3, 5.1, 1.9, 1, 1.1 24. Grant Hill (PHX) 13.1, 5.3, 2.9 25. Francisco Garcia (SAC) 12.3, 3.3, 1.6, 1.2 SPG 26. Travis Outlaw (POR) 13.3, 4.6, 1.3 27. Andres Nocioni (CHI) 13.2, 4.2, 1.2 28. (R) Al Thornton (LAC) 12.7, 4.5, 1.2 29. (R) Jamario Moon (TOR) 8.5, 6.2, 1.2, 1, 1.4 30. Boris Diaw (PHX) 8.8, 4.6, 3.9 31. Linas Kleiza (DEN) 11.1, 4.2, 1.2 Just Missed Out (R) Jeff Green (SEA) 10.5, 4.7, 1.5 Desmond Mason (MIL) 9.7, 4.3, 2.1 Martell Webster (POR) 10.7, 3.9, 1.2

Kings Beat Blazers 103-86, Headband Style

Sat, 12 Apr 2008 10:32:28 -0500

The Kings, led by John Salmons took the season series 3-1 and handed the Blazers one of their more dismal road losses of the year, and Josh McRoberts made an appearance. Plus, in honor of Brad Miller undergoing surgery, the team wore headbands. Check out the pics in the comments.

Day 152 of 170: Backwards Day

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 07:39:13 -0500

The Biggest Loser: I didn't name this backwards day just because of Al Thornton. No, it takes something bigger, something like LeBron James (2.2) to make that happen. LeBron was 4-17 from the floor (1-5 from three) and finished with 13 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 turnovers as the Piston held the Cavs to a lowly 71 points.