Orlando Magic Acquire Rafer Alston
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 3:16 PM EST
in News
154 comments
ESPN's Marc Stein breaks the story.
Looks like we have a fairly significant three-way deal that has been submitted to the league just before the trade deadline.
NBA front-office sources tell ESPN.com that Orlando is acquiring Rafer Alston from Houston to fill the void created at point guard by Jameer Nelson’s shoulder injury.
The Rockets will receive Memphis guard Kyle Lowry, Orlando forward Brian Cook and perhaps two other minimum-salaried players to make the finances work.
The Grizzlies will receive a first-round pick from Orlando.
I'll post my thoughts shortly.
Well, the Orlando Magic fans spoke and general manager Otis Smith listened. There's no doubt that this trade is a direct result of the Magic's pathetic play these past few weeks, in which Orlando's offense has looked 'off' and stagnant. In retrospect, I question the merits of the Keith Bogans/Tyronn Lue trade to begin with, but one could surmise that Lue can potentially usurp Anthony Johnson as the main back-up point guard the remainder of the season. Doubt anyone would complain if that occurred.
Let's be clear. The Magic will be shipping off a first-round pick but Orlando fans can rest easy because the upcoming Draft is going to be weak. Besides, should it really matter whether or not Orlando has a first-round pick in the lower half of the Draft? It's not like the team would make a good choice unless it's a top five pick, historically speaking (sans Courtney Lee and a few other players).
Also, what does this mean for the Magic in its pursuit to re-sign Hedo Turkoglu this off-season? Alston carries a contract that runs until next season, at approximately $5.2 million. Cook, who was traded, did have a player option for next year that he could (and probably would) have exercised. The cost? $3.5 million. Orlando does indeed add a teeny bit of salary, as a result, but ultimately it shouldn't hurt the team's chances of locking up Turkoglu long-term. There will be enough money available, after Turkoglu (presumably) opts outs & the contracts of Lue, Richardson, and Gortat expire.
As for the trade, Alston is an upgrade (his WARP is 1.7, Johnson's WARP is -0.1) to the Magic's current point guard situation but by how much? You be the judge.
The main difference between Alston and Johnson is the fact that the former is a bit better offensively than the latter. Not by much, but enough where a difference is clearly shown. Alston isn't shy about chucking up threes, which is a welcomed tendency at the moment because Johnson has done a poor job of presenting himself as a legitimate option offensively. But that's the only difference between the two players. Alston isn't known to be much of a penetrator, and that's a problem because that type of threat is needed to keep opposing defenses honest.
The jury is out on whether Rafer Alston will make a big im pact as a member of the Orlando Magic, but general manager Otis Smith should be applauded for acting proactively and making a move.
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Good move by Memphis
To get a 1st rounder, but I’m not sure it will yield as much as it did in previous years. Saves them some salary with Lowery, and the Magic get an older vet PG in Rafer Alston.
This is the kind of move the Magic needed to make when Jameer went down. It’s definitely something that could help the Magic this year, and long term next year.
No mistakes in the tango, darling. Not like life. Simple. That's what makes the tango so great. If you make a mistake, and get all tangled up, you just tango on.....
I am the stone that builder refused..I am the visual...The inspiration..That made lady sing the blues....I'm the spark that makes your idea bright.....The same spark that lights the dark....So that you can know your left from your right...I am the ballot in your box....The bullet in your gun...The inner glow that lets you know...To call your brother son....The story that just begun...The promise of what's to come...And I'm 'a remain a soldier till the war is won....
by pookeyguru on Feb 19, 2009 3:19 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Skip to my lou
We’ve need some trash talkin get in your face type player for a while now. Seeing as how he "allegedly stabbed someone a few years ago, he fits the bill. Plus he’s got a better shot and can play the pick n roll better then what we currently have.
by AB's triple double on Feb 19, 2009 3:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
allegedly stabbed someone
Holy crap, what?
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah he could help
He has downsides too, and apparently that’s what Houston was thinking. It’s probably about just opening up a spot full time for Brooks anyway at this point.
No mistakes in the tango, darling. Not like life. Simple. That's what makes the tango so great. If you make a mistake, and get all tangled up, you just tango on.....
I am the stone that builder refused..I am the visual...The inspiration..That made lady sing the blues....I'm the spark that makes your idea bright.....The same spark that lights the dark....So that you can know your left from your right...I am the ballot in your box....The bullet in your gun...The inner glow that lets you know...To call your brother son....The story that just begun...The promise of what's to come...And I'm 'a remain a soldier till the war is won....
by pookeyguru on Feb 19, 2009 3:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
half an hour I'm at the vet's
and look what happens!
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:20 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
where did you find a vet who specializes in Giant Squids? lol
Bleeding Blue and Silver for 20 of my 23 years.
by FLYNN47 on Feb 19, 2009 4:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
lol
I live on a peninsula, anything’s possible :D
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 6:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Isn't Alston making 5 million next year?
I’m cool for this year since Alston is an improvement over the opening day 2007/2008 Hawks backcourt, but I hope this doesn’t mean we are going to lose out on Hedo for next year because of the extra contract.
Also, I’m always afraid of making a trade with Houston because they normally get the better end of the deal in most of their trades.
by funny80sguy on Feb 19, 2009 3:22 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I am thrilled.
Ecstatic. Thrilled. I wanted an average point guard and we got better than that.
Wow. Otis did it, I’m so surprised. Wow.
Who wants to bet if we didn’t get embarrassed last night we wouldn’t have got him?
THANK GOD!
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:23 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Agreed...
that might of been the best scenario for us. And without question, this is definitely an upgrade. It was obvious that neither one of our current points could handle opposing teams’ point guards. Sad to note that it looks like Jameer will opt for surgery, but like I said earlier at least Otis didn’t salvage the season and made a move that will at least give us an opportunity to get past the 2nd round. Here’s to hoping that Alston clicks well with our squad!
by jaydee617 on Feb 19, 2009 3:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
This is great. So great.
We needed a floor general, he can do that. his 11.5 / 5.5 should turn into 12 / 7 IMO, just feed Dwight and those shooters! MAN I CANT WAIT FOR TOMORROW HE BETTER PLAY!!!
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:34 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
you're intense
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:34 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well it made my day/week that's for sure
I know whose jersey I’ll be wearing on the floor in Philly next Saturday.
Think they can print it up in time?
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You're right. Gotta rep the 'Meer for his All-Star bid / breakout season...
Also would like to chat with him If I get the chance, maybe a pic or two if I get there early / stay late enough. Hopefully I’ll have a new avatar in two weeks.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Share the pics here if you have them. Put 'em in a FanShot, or write a FanPost about the experience
If you have the time, anyway.
by Ben Q Rock on Feb 19, 2009 3:55 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely will.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 4:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
so tell me your thoughts about Alston, people
upgrade? downgrade?
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:23 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
are you serious !?!?!?
UPGRADE ME!!!
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I just wanted to know your thoughts!! lol
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
TGS see the stat breakdown below...
waiting on ERivs to hit it off with those advanced stats.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
thanks!
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Certain upgrade over our current, game-ready point guards.
I cannot wait to see Rafer throwing alley-oops to Dwight.
by big aaron on Feb 19, 2009 3:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm still surprised by this development
"Fun" and "Failure" both start out the same way.
by Marie on Feb 19, 2009 3:23 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
oh!! how did I miss that Cook is gone! :D
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:25 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
haha
his wikipedia page already says he’s with the Magic XD
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:27 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Alson....
Has upside when compared to AJ/Lue…
He is however an emotionally fragile player, that could be an issue.
Do no harm!!
by Brutalfacts on Feb 19, 2009 3:30 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
let's hope Mcgrady's first round woes
hasn’t rubbed off on his former teammate *cough *
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:31 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Let's break it down
Alston 11.5/5.5/3.0/1.0
AJ 4.9/2.6/0.6
Lue HOT GARBAGE
HUGE WIN! OTIS DID IT! IM SO SORRY OTIS! LETS GO BABY!!
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:32 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I'm saving the advanced stats for my man ERIVS!
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
so now we've got 5 PGs
Alston, AJ, and Lue are active, Wilks and Jameer are not.
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:34 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Lue soon to be inactive.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
poor Lue
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So does this nullify the Lue/Bogans trade?
I know at the time Lue seemed somewhat necessary, but now, could we have done without Him? With AJ now sure to play back up to Skip and Lue to play garbage time, how much does Lue seem like it was a ‘band-aid fix’?
Bleeding Blue and Silver for 20 of my 23 years.
by FLYNN47 on Feb 19, 2009 4:59 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
well, he does have an expiring contract
and Bogans really wasn’t playing well at all, so….I dunno, ha
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 6:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
you sound mad? REJOICE!
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:35 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
or DSK will kill ya!
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't like the idea of taking back salary, but Alston's better than Lue or A.J.
by Ben Q Rock on Feb 19, 2009 3:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
he gives us a chance
A chance to make a deep run.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
that's all I wanted.
We weren’t gonna get a stud, but we got help!
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
LMAO...
on a side note, anyone just hear Mark Jones slip up on the SC special: “Tomorrow night we’ve got a Western Conference double dick.”
LET’S GO SKIP!
by jaydee617 on Feb 19, 2009 3:39 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I laughed
I’m 12, apparently
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Have fun with Rafer, guys!
Be prepared to see a flurry of floaters that don’t go in, pull-up three-point misses, and less shots for Rashard and Hedo. All I can say is good riddance.
"I think girls are probably just better shooters." - Steve Novak
by Tom Martin on Feb 19, 2009 3:41 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
hi hater
Trust me…
Be prepared to see a flurry of floaters that don’t go in, pull-up three-point misses, and less shots for Rashard and Hedo. All I can say is good riddance.
Will be MUCH more enjoyable than watching AJ + Lue on a nightly basis!!
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
be nice :)
although I can’t imagine Hedo and Rashard getting any worse. Rafer statistically has more assists per game than Lue and AJ have had these past few weeks. I don’t see why Hedo or Shard would get less shots…
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So he's not exactly, um, "pass-first"?
The first thing I thought of when I read the news was, “boy, The Dream Shake folks are going to be thrilled.”
by Ben Q Rock on Feb 19, 2009 3:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Haha
Yes indeed. This is the greatest day since we traded Tyronn Lue!
;-)
"I think girls are probably just better shooters." - Steve Novak
by Tom Martin on Feb 19, 2009 4:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
so I'm going to ask the question that's on everyone's mind:
does Rafer rhyme with wafer?
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:41 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
excellent, thanks
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Haha! the Cookie Monster mut've thought he was being traded for a dessert!
and probably thought….‘oh rats! Just as i leave, the Magic get desserts! Hope there are wafers where ever i’m going…Om nom nom…’
Bleeding Blue and Silver for 20 of my 23 years.
by FLYNN47 on Feb 19, 2009 5:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes...
"Fun" and "Failure" both start out the same way.
by Marie on Feb 19, 2009 3:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
thank you, thank you
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Major Upgrade over No Neck and Juwanna Man
Love the move, and it def puts us in a better position come the playoffs, but it shows that the Lue deal was a straight panic move and Otis is covering his ass. Hopefully during the summer we can turn one or two of the 4 (!) PG’s we have into a quality PF.
by Gortastic Voyage on Feb 19, 2009 3:46 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Lue and Wilks are expiring, so the Magic will have Jameer, Rafer, and A.J. at the point.
by Ben Q Rock on Feb 19, 2009 3:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yep. And no way do we get anything for A.J. other than a tile for the men's bathroom in Amway.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
omg lol
that poor man
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
In case you're wondering, Alston's due $5.25 million next year
Tony Battie’s due $6.29, so together the Magic might have enough to make a splash at next year’s deadline, if they so choose.
by Ben Q Rock on Feb 19, 2009 3:50 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
hey, useless trivia time
Rafer was coached by Stan’s bald bro, Jeff. Wonder how similar/dissimilar their coaching styles are.
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:50 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Now how long does it take SVG to name Alston the starter?
I see AJ getting the nod tomorrow, but how much longer does he get? By Sunday, Alston’s our guy IMO. Thoughts?
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 3:52 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
doesn't he have to pass the physical first?
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 3:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
JVG/SVG
You know the brothers have talked about this which makes me feel good about it.
Do no harm!!
by Brutalfacts on Feb 19, 2009 3:52 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
WOO HOO!!!!
Bye Bye Cookie Monster!! We now have all the “Loos” in the league!!!!
sweet LEW, turkogLU, tyronn LUE, and skip to my LOU!!!!
"In order for us to make a move, It has to make sense" - Otis Smith's favorite saying
by magic12ball on Feb 19, 2009 3:53 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
very nice.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 4:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe we'll be able to
beat the bobcats tomorrow without having to force OT.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 4:02 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Great move
The Rockets must really believe in Brooks or wanted to get rid of Alston that bad. I love the move; I just hope the pick is for next year tho.
The Magic saved about 600k from the Lue/Bogans deal from the salary cap. Cook was going to pick up his player option of about 3.5 mill. Alston has a salary of 5 mil for next year so our estimated team salary went up maybe 1 mill. We should still be able to re-sign Turk. Not bad since this was a HUGE hole in our lineup (backup PG)
Good job Otis!
by L Magico on Feb 19, 2009 4:06 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Agreed on all points.
Cook had no role here, too streaky of a shooter on a team with some real assassins.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 4:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I updated the post with my thoughts. Chime in with your rebuttals. Grazie.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 4:16 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I agree with most of what you said except...
Besides, should it really matter whether or not Orlando has a first-round pick? It’s not like the team would make a good choice.
That was sarcasm right? Aren’t we pretty happy with Courtney Lee?
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 4:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Sort of. I was speaking historically.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 4:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
True... looking at recent history
We did a hell of a job with Howard over Okafor though, when the majority of critics thought Okafor was the safer pick. Courtney Lee was a good first rounder. Vazquez is a bad look, but wasn’t our fault, who really knows what would of happened with him? JJ, jury is still out on.
Going 2003 and prior I agree, Gaines, Borchardt, Sasser, Hunter, Alexander = FAIL, Dooling? EH, Ok. Mike Miller = Good pick.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 4:58 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Jury still out on JJ?
Seriously?……Really DSK?
On another point, did you ever find out how OJ went in that trial? Jury still deciding that one too? ;-)
Bleeding Blue and Silver for 20 of my 23 years.
by FLYNN47 on Feb 19, 2009 5:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
hahaha.
You’re right… though he is the reason we beat Charlotte the other night, I see more of those in his future.
Obviously he’s a bust for a lottery pick, but what about Shelden Williams who went 5th? He has really never been given a chance to play which is why I said the jury is still out.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 5:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Also keep in mind when comparing stats
that they are somewhat to the team & players they’ve played with. I easily see Alston’s assists going from 5.5 – 6.5-7.0 playing with Dwight & his sharp shooters, my opinion.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 4:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think Alston's assist numbers will go up THAT high.
I think a safe number is somewhere around 6 dimes/game.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 4:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
My logic is based on the quality of shooters on the Magic opposed to the Rockets
Only one way to tell and that’s by looking at the splits at the end of the year. He’s also going to get more playing time on the magic than the rockets imo.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 5:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
More playing time? He's already been averaging approximately 33 MPG.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 5:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Foyle and Wilks were part of the deal
To make the salaries work, the Magic included in the Houston deal center Adonal Foyle and Mike Wilks along with Cook.
"Fun" and "Failure" both start out the same way.
by Marie on Feb 19, 2009 4:33 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Orlando Sentinel
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orl-magic-trade-alston-021909,0,4917590.story
"Fun" and "Failure" both start out the same way.
by Marie on Feb 19, 2009 4:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So does Foyle get waived and then resign with Orlando?
Our roster must be short a few players now, right? Is Foyle coming back to solve that problem?
by TragicMatt on Feb 19, 2009 4:37 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I would assume something like that could be arranged.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 4:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Magic had 15. Cook, Foyle, and Wilks out makes 12. Alston in makes 13. That's the minimum.
But theoretically the Rockets could cut Foyle loose if they wanted to.
by Ben Q Rock on Feb 19, 2009 4:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Argh!
What are we DOING? We’ve just traded for the dumbest point guard in the league. Like Johnson, Alston is a 37% shooter. Unlike Johnson, that’s a number that will NEVER change — a number in line with his whole history as a shameless chucker.
Worse, he thinks he’s part of the offense; he attempted 10.9 shots a game with the Rockets this season. To put this in perspective, Yao Ming averages 13.1 shots per game. Ming scores 19.8; Alston scores 11.5. This idiot apparently thinks he should have almost as many shots as Ming. Great point guarding there…
He has the fourth-lowest true shooting percentage among guys who averaged more than 30 MPG this season. Only Elton Brand, Raymond Felton, and Baron Davis were worse. And Brand (injuries) and Felton (plays for horrible team with no high-percentage options) have excuses. What’s Alston’s excuse? He plays alongside a bunch of talented scorers. Unfortunately, he can’t shoot, and he’s a glory-hogging idiot.
We’re mortgaging our whole future for a desperate playoff bid this year, and we’re expecting THIS guy to make a difference? Alston has NEVER been on a team that he hasn’t done more harm than good. He’s a loser, he’s always been a loser, and he’ll always be a loser.
All I know is, we’d better be able to unload him over the offseason, because if we’re stuck with his stupid contract and it costs us Hedo, I am done as a Magic fan. I’ve supported Otis up to a point, but this is that point.
by 3.3seconds on Feb 19, 2009 4:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Alston's a crap shooter, yes, but he's still a better player than Anthony Johnson
by Ben Q Rock on Feb 19, 2009 4:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Not really, no. Johnson basically does nothing, but at least he has the sense not to do things he can’t do. He makes some simple passes, stands in front of his man on D, and that’s it Alston does LESS than nothing — the things he does actually make his team LESS likely to win the game.
by 3.3seconds on Feb 19, 2009 4:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I mean, if we’re going to go with an overpaid guy who chucks the ball all the time and has severe character issues, why didn’t we trade for Jamaal Tinsley? At least Tinsley’s a good distributor.
by 3.3seconds on Feb 19, 2009 4:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Alston is a way better defender than Johnson, its not even close. Alston’s +/- is 132, Johnson’s is 27. AJ’s PER is an abysmal 10.10, Alston’s 12.88, not great but substantially better. Also while Alston is a worse shooter, he’s 35% from 3pt which is about average and he’s a better ball handler. Alston has more playoff experience and he stabbed someone. As evidenced by the mediocre play of the last 2 weeks the Magic needed to make a move, AJ and Tyronn weren’t going going to cut it. I’d rather take my chances with Skip.
by atlantaray on Feb 19, 2009 5:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I love the fact you bring up the Alston stabbing as a good quality. Hilarious.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 6:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll concede Alston is a better defender than Johnson - but your other arguments are pretty weak. +/ is essentially meaningless in a scenario like this, comparing a starter to a backup — what it basically means here is “the Rockets’ first unit outscored opponents by more than the Magic’s second unit.”
And PER, like any quantitative statistical measurement, is biased toward players who Do Things on a statistical level — i.e., it’s giving Alston credit for scoring 11.5 points, even though the way he’s doing it (unbelievably inefficient shooting) is killing his team. Whereas Johnson, who has been a similar player in terms of efficiency per shot, has done the smart thing — he TAKES FEWER SHOTS. That helps the team, but does it raise his PER? No — it lowers it, because PER is stupid in that way.
35% three-point shooting is maybe average for the league, but it’s pretty lousy for the Magic. We’ve already covered ballhandling — Alston’s not very good at that, plus his abysmal decision-making skills. “Playoff experience” is basically a superstition.
Anyway, this reminds me of the Suns trading for Shaq — albeit on a smaller level, as unlike the Suns, we didn’t trade a better player who fits our style better. But we did add a washed-up player who doesn’t fit our team’s style and is likely to be a huge distraction off the court. That dude is not going to go away — he’ll poison our team next year too.
by 3.3seconds on Feb 19, 2009 8:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
We don't need Alston to be a shooter
we need him to distribute the ball, something that AJ/Lue are incapable of.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 4:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He's better than Anthony Johnson, that's all that really matters.
.. and it’s not like SVG is unfamiliar with Rafer. He’s coached him before in Miami (2003-2004).
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 4:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Who cares what we need? ALSTON needs Alston to be a shooter. This is a guy who, in a long NBA career, has consistently shown an inability and/or an unwillingness to understand that he should not shoot when he does not have the best shot on the floor. I love Stan, but at the age of 32, nobody is teaching this guy the fundamentals. He is going to chuck, and he is going to chuck relentlessly.
As for distribution — Alston is averaging 5.4 assists in 33.5 minutes. Johnson has averaged 2.6 assists in 19.1 minutes. That’s a difference, but not a huge one — and factor in the fact that Alston was playing in a more assist-friendly offense than Johnson, and behind fewer other ballhandlers, and I’m not at all sure he’s a more effective passer than Johnson.
by 3.3seconds on Feb 19, 2009 5:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Relax man
we picked up a PG that gives us a better chance to win playoff series than what we currently had. The salaries work. He’s also a better BACKUP PG for next year than what we currently had. You can’t be mad at this. Give it a shot.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 5:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I sincerely hope we don’t intend to spend $5.2 million next season on a backup PG who shoots his team out of games. The only thing getting me through this is the hope that we’ll deal him, and his contract, and maybe Battie for a player who can actually help us. (Or at least a player who doesn’t pose too many character/chemistry issues for a backup PG to justify.)
And if Jameer doesn’t come back, we’re not going to win the playoffs. It was a question whether we were the best team even with Jameer — we clearly weren’t before this trade, and we clearly aren’t after the trade.
by 3.3seconds on Feb 19, 2009 5:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think you're ignoring the possibility that ..
.. with Alston & Battie’s contracts BOTH expiring in 2010, Orlando has a chance to make a play in a possibly historical free agent class. The Magic will have roughly $11.4 Mill. available between the two players. That’s enough to make a splash.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 5:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
We’re still going to be above the cap, aren’t we?
by 3.3seconds on Feb 19, 2009 8:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 8:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree and disagree with you.
Rafer is a chucker, yes. I agree with you there.
The Magic aren’t mortgaging their future with this trade. Orlando will still have enough money available in the off-season to lock up Hedo long-term. I disagree with you there.
Like I said, the jury is out. Let’s see what happens.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 4:55 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
We’ll have less money… I don’t know how much Hedo is going to go for. I’m optimistic, but I’d rather have that money there in case we need it. For that matter, I’d rather have that money there to sign someone in addition to Hedo.
Basically, my point is, this is a desperation move. It doesn’t make us better than Boston, and it doesn’t make us better than Cleveland — we were around equal to those two teams with Jameer, there’s no way we’re going to be equal to them with a guy who’s worse than Jameer in every way imaginable. So either way, we’ve given up a draft pick and cap room, and we’re still headed for a no. 3 seed and a second-round exit.
by 3.3seconds on Feb 19, 2009 5:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If we face the sixers in the first round
We might be headed for a first round exit. I’m still all aboard the trade though.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 5:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Given that Hedo is having an average season, which is hurting his value ..
.. plus the fact it doesn’t really appear as if Turk will have many other options in free agency this off-season (if he presumably opts out), I’d be shocked if he didn’t return to the Magic next year. Orlando added roughly $1.7 in payroll next season, but in the grand scheme of things it’s not a lot of money where it would directly affect the team’s chances of re-upping Hedo.
I applaud GM Otis Smith for trying. I agree that the move doesn’t make the team better than Boston or Cleveland, but in the POs anything can happen. Nothing is a guarantee. I don’t think the team should simply throw in the towel. Make a move, try, and see how it goes.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 5:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ah — just read the thing about Cook’s option. Less infuriated now.
Still, I think that at this point, we’re not playing for this year. We’re playing for the long term. And in the long term, this trade doesn’t do anything for us — it adds salary for a guy who isn’t worth that salary, and it costs us a draft pick.
by 3.3seconds on Feb 19, 2009 5:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
.. who cares about the draft pick. If the pick is from this year, it won't matter.
The coming Draft is weak.
Even if the Magic traded a future pick, I think it’s safe to presume that Orlando will be contending for a Title for the foreseeable future, so the pick will most likely land in the lower-half of the first round. Given the team’s history of drafting poorly outside of the top five, I’m not too worried personally.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 5:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Pretty much, I view the draft after the first 10-15 picks as a roll of the dice.. Around one in six of those guys amount to something really good, and another couple become decent backups.
So we’ve basically traded a dice roll at a starter for a guy who might make our team a little better for a couple months (or, alternately, completely wreck our game plan and our chemistry), and actively makes our team worse as soon as Nelson comes back. The draft pick isn’t the big thing to me — the big thing is, Alston is a terrible player and a bad influence, and having him on or around our team is a problem in and of itself.
by 3.3seconds on Feb 19, 2009 8:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Not bad for a last minute
desperation move. Thanks Otis for actually doing something. Lord knows this wouldn’t have happened under prior management.
I think Alston will be a nice addition. I haven’t watched him play much. How is his ball handling? It will be nice if we have somebody who can run point, find that open players, get the ball inside and not turn it over. Asking too much?
I am all about it. We still have a chance this season and this gives me a little hope.
"I have come that you may have life, and life to the max"
by UNFNOLE on Feb 19, 2009 5:16 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Well, he IS a former And 1 player, so his ball handling is tight.
Come on now, he IS Skip To My Lou.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 5:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Good Trade
I dont know why t3.3 is all in a tizzy over this. We add a negligible amount of salary, lose a presumably 25-30 pick in a week draft, and get a solid player in Alston who will also be a much better backup for Jameer next year. And if anyone was watching Alston last year (especially during that 22 game win streak), he more than proved he can be a factor for a good team, the Rockets this year have basically been a complete disaster with injuries and not living up to expectations, that and I believe in SVG’s ability to coach up players, especially those whom he’s previously coached. I’m glad Otis didn’t just give up on this year when Jameer went down; who’s to say someone else won’t get hurt next year or the year after that? I’m so happy I don’t have to watch No Neck waste my time for 30 minutes a game now.
Pistons suck.
by Paul Finger on Feb 19, 2009 5:22 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
You just can't make EVERYONE happy ALL the time.
I’m sure people were mad we didn’t take Okafor over Howard. We were split when we brought T-Mac in, we were split when we ran him out. We were split when we brought in Hill, we were split when we ran him out (not really.) Fact is, someone will always complain, no matter what the situation is. Otis clearly made the team better today, clearly. Anyone who wants to dispute that needs to watch the play of this team over the past 2 weeks. This team could have easily been bounced in the first round. Now, we have a CHANCE to make a run, a MUCH BETTER chance than we had yesterday. Trust.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 5:25 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Amen to that
But yeah, I find it hard for anyone who watches every Magic game to not think this is a substantial upgrade over the rotting corpses that were playing PG after Jameer went down. When my brother called me in class to tell me the news I was ecstatic.
Pistons suck.
by Paul Finger on Feb 19, 2009 5:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I was ecstatic at work
Left my office and did a dance, no lie.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 5:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I've had a Cheshire Cat grin slapped on my face since this news broke
And I was making eBay Turbo Lister templates, which is duller than dishwater. Seriously happy to have Skip on this team now. Hopefully we pick up some decent big men if there are any in the FA pool with those two roster spots too, flesh out the front court a little.
by big aaron on Feb 19, 2009 6:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And with that said ...
… Sacramento are considering buying out Mikki Moore. He’d be a decent pick up, IMO
by big aaron on Feb 19, 2009 6:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He would be.
But guess who’s interested? Ding-ding-ding the world champs.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 6:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The Magic don't have a ton of money to pick up a player of any use.
So don’t expect the team to make a play for Mikki Moore, Joe Smith, Drew Gooden, etc.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 6:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Respect.
Well said, both of you.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 5:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm in love with your signature
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 6:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Some people are wondering...
Why Magic didn’t just trade for Lowry.
by Jaceman on Feb 19, 2009 6:16 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I'm wondering that as well. Lowry > Alston.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 6:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I can only surmise...
Smith wanted the better 3pt shooter…
I hope Gooden gets bought out and Magic make a push.
by Jaceman on Feb 19, 2009 6:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, Alston is the better fit.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 6:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Memphis just made a trade for Chris Mihm and is trying to dump salary now.
They got no players in this deal. My question is about Lou’s ego. I haven’t followed him much this season, but how would he feel backing up ‘meer next season? And how will ’meer feel looking over his shoulder again after getting rid of Carlos and Keyon? Lou is still a decent starting PG and that’s, after all, why we brought him in here.
by hevchv on Feb 19, 2009 6:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well ..
.. right now, Alston isn’t good enough to be a starting point guard but the Magic have no other options at this point. Given his age, I doubt he’ll care too much that he’ll be a back-up next season. But you never know.
As for Jameer, at this point, I doubt he’s worried anymore about Alston or anyone else who’s going to be his back-up. He’s an All-Star now and has a nice contract extension to boot. He’ll be fine.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 6:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather Alston to Lowry
He’s got a few more miles, I don’t want a guy who has never sniffed the playoffs before. I like the trade, I didn’t think Otis had it in him. I tip my hat good sir.
by magic fanatic on Feb 19, 2009 6:28 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Alston may have more miles but Lowry is the better player already between the two.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 6:35 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He may have a better PER but I think minutes played is an important stat here.
The magic need a point guard to put in serious minutes, someone that is used to playing, someone with stamina. What are Lowry’s 22mpg going to contribute? Either AJ/LUE or a combination would still be playing the majority of the game. With Alston’s 31, we have a legitimate starting point guard with AJ or Lue taking over the role of a second string PG.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 7:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
All valid points.
I just feel not only now but in the long-term, Lowry will be a better player (he’s only 22).
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 7:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yup, but like you said above. Alston is the better fit, for what we need TODAY.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 7:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes sir. Agreed.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 7:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
React to this...
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 7:19 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Nice. Vintage.
Guess who was his coach at Fresno State? The great Jerry Tarkanian.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 7:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He's sure had a good resume of coaching once he left the streets huh ?
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 7:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Jerry Tarkanian, George Karl, Lenny Wilkins, Stan Van Gundy, Jeff Van Gundy, Rick Adelman.
Yeah .. that’s pretty damn good.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 7:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
At your response.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 7:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i'm ecstatic
this season aint over yet
www.last.fm/user/mhetrick04
by mhetrick14 on Feb 19, 2009 7:42 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Kenny Smith on the TNT pre-game show... (paraphrased to the best of my ability)
This is a paraphrase from Kenny Smith minutes ago. No exaggeration…
“Rafer Alston will distribute the ball to Dwight, Rashard and Turkoglu better than what Jameer can do. These guys will score more with Rafer distributing the ball to them compared to Jameer Nelson. This takes them over the top. They are over the top in comparison to Cleveland, not Boston yet, but this takes them over Cleveland”
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 8:14 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
lol whaaaat?
You read it! You can't unread it!
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 19, 2009 8:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Like I said in the other post, is he (and Charles Barkley) insane?
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
by erivera7 on Feb 19, 2009 8:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Possibly...
I mean were they insane when they said Jameer should of and was rightfully selected as an all-star? It’s just an opinion, Kenny said Rafer was a better passer, a better ball distributor, that’s all, never did he say he was a better basketball player. He said he had one aspect of his game that was better than Jameer’s game. He said Dwight, Shard, Hedo should score more with Alston instead of Jameer, I can see why. Jameer being shoot-first, is good for his 17 points per game, Alston will be good for 10ppg and will distribute the ball around otherwise. We’ll see.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 19, 2009 8:35 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm in agreement with the majority here
… in favor of the trade.
In his last two games, Alston has 24 assists (11 last game, 13 the game before), and a magnificent 24/3 assist/turnover ratio! No way any of the point guards the Magic have are capable of producing stats like that.
I’m not too worried that in his last nine games, Alston has shot just 29 of 85 from the field. He’s 12 of 26 from three point range the last five games, which is excellent. If he can be effective passing the ball and not turning the ball over, while hitting the occasional three, the Magic are much better off than they were with just A.J. and Ty Lue at the point.
by Mike from Illinois on Feb 19, 2009 8:32 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Hey guys, Lee (UofTOrange) from The Dream Shake Here
I don’t want to rain on your parade completely, so here’s the good news. Rafer Alston is CLEARLY better than what y’all had with Jameer Nelson out, that’s indisputable. He’ll try hard, very hard. Here’s the bad news:
He’ll likely fail. His assists numbers are not going up. He’s a terrible entry passer and let’s be completely honest with ourselves, I love DHo, but he’s not a polished offensive player so more assists aren’t really going to come from playing with him unless you have the threat of being able to finish at the rim as a PG. Rafer cannot, do that. Not he won’t do that, he simply can not do that. He’s not a good three point shooter, and an “average’ three point shooter in this league is a bad one. If you can’t thrive off Yao Ming, the best offensive skills center in the league by about 25%, why on earth would it happen with Dwight Howard who is just an insane athlete? He repeatedly takes ill advised shots, we even named his floater a "Rafer”, otherwise known as a stupid shot that has no chance of ever going in yet gets shot about 4 times a game anyway.
I honestly wish him well, but he’s been the bane of my Rockets fan existence since he showed up in Houston. I picked you guys to meet the Rockets (I know, haha) in the championship this year mostly because I thought Nelson would finally break out (he did). Rafer can not get you there, but given the right roll with the team, he might not stop it from happening. I promise you this though, you all will argue about him on a night in and night out basis as long as he is with the Magic. Some nights he’ll be great, the other 2/3rds of the time you’ll be pulling your hair out.
by UofTOrange on Feb 19, 2009 10:34 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
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