Jameer Nelson May Be Out for the Year After Tearing His Right Labrum: The Morning After
by Ben Q Rock on Feb 3, 2009 7:04 PM EST
in The Morning After
150 comments
UPDATE 2: Let's just get this out of the way: Orlando Magic GM Otis Smith confirmed that Jameer Nelson will have surgery to repair his torn right labrum and will likely miss the rest of the season. UPDATE 3: the Orlando Sentinel has transcripts of Otis Smith's press conference (please read the whole thing) and a brief interview with Nelson.
Before Jameer Nelson suffered a dislocated right shoulder last night, the biggest question surrounding the Orlando Magic's season was, "Can this team win a championship?" It's a cruel irony that Kevin Pelton published this piece, in which he gives an affirmative answer to that question, the day after the injury occurred. Now, there are several questions we need to ask about the Magic: How severe is the injury to Nelson? How good are the Magic without him? With whom can they replace him? And who will replace him in the All-Star game?
UPDATE: I'll update this post with new links throughout the day. Post relevant trade proposals in erivera7's thread, please. Thanks. - BQR
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How severe is the injury?
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The Orlando Sentinel reports, via Twitter, that Nelson has a torn right labrum. He'll be evaluated again next week, but that doesn't sound good.
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John Denton says the evaluation next week will determine whether Nelson will rehabilitate the shoulder and hope to come back later this season or if he'll have season-ending surgery.
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Kyle Hightower gives us reason for optimism:
A recent example of an NBA player returning quickly to action was New York's Eddy Curry, who missed just a week of action in October of 2007 when he was diagnosed with a torn labrum in his right shoulder.
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...and pessimism:
Miami's Dwyane Wade dislocated his left shoulder in February of 2007 and missed 23 games before having surgery that May. He also was inactive for seven games the next season after aggravating it.
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Johns Hopkins University has this page about labral tears on its Web site. Disconcerting quote alert:
It is believed that it takes at least four to six weeks for the labrum to re-attach itself to the rim of the bone, and probably another four to six weeks to get strong.
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We'll take a look at the rest of the above-posed questions after the jump.
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How good are the Magic without him?
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Matt Moore wittily summarizes the direness of Nelson's potentially missing a month or more:
[While Nelson is out], the Magic may have to sign another point guard, as they're currently performing without a net, and Anthony Johnson ain't no acrobat.
He got me to laugh out loud with that one, although it could be one case in which I laughed to keep myself from crying.
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Johnson, for his part, thinks he can get it done. From Brian Schmitz:
"I've probably started a third of the games since I've been in the NBA," Johnson said. "So it's not something I haven't ever done. I feel I can step in and play well and keep this train rolling."
Johnson has played 729 NBA games, starting in 242 of them. That's 33.1%. If Johnson knows the Magic's offense as well as he does his career stats, Orlando might not be in such bad shape after all.
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Ignore that last sentence; they're in bad shape, says Tom Ziller:
To call Nelson's injury a disaster is an insult to the Hindenburg. Dwight Howard is the team MVP and the best center in the world. But if there's a No. 2 capo in terms of team import in Orlando, it is without question Nelson. Why? Because of Anthony Johnson.
Johnson, Nelson's
oldveteran backup, has been somewhere between bad and awful for at least the past few years, possibly his entire career [....] Johnson does little well at this point (wide-open spot-up threes would be one), and several things poorly (defense, ball-handling, shot creation, scoring, defense, defense). He's a net negative no matter how you slice it.
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With whom do they replace him?
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erivera7 dares you to be the GM and answer that question yourself.
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Brian Schmitz also names Williams, and a few other possibilities.
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The problem with Williams isn't that he's a bad player; he's decent enough, I suppose. Rather it's that he isn't allowed to play this year. After he signed with the Los Angeles Clippers this summer, only to abruptly retire before the season started, the NBA outright banned him. He can challenge the ban if he wants to, though.
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Rob Mahoney of Hardwood Paroxysm says the Magic should consider signing Stephon Marbury, but not too seriously. He's actually more concerned with what the injury means for the franchise as a whole:
But I really like this Magic team, and adore their potential for complete dominance and destruction. All I ask is that this injury doesn't turn Orlando's destruction unto itself, be it by means of Marbury or crippling trade reeking of desperation.
For now, it's the end of the Magic as we know it. This time, though, I don't feel fine.
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B. Shoals thinks Hedo Turkoglu can run the point for Orlando, but he's more worried about the long-term effects Nelson's loss might have. Here's one way to think of it, according to Shoals:
Certainly, the Magic would've ideally gone into this postseason with their All-Star point guard. Instead, a much-improved, more cohesive team just might have to settle for trying with last year's personnel.
Take last year's 52-win team, then subtract Nelson. Add Anthony Johnson, then subtract from the bench's production. Now you have what amounts to a .500 team--Johnson isn't bad enough to turn the Magic into, say, the Bulls--likely without homecourt advantage in the playoffs. Oy.
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Who will replace him in the All-Star Game?
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Marcel Mutoni of SLAM Magazine ended his report of Nelson's injury with this quote:
Suddenly, the door for an All-Star replacement appears to have been cracked open. I'm certain the debate will be handled with nothing but class and grace.
Nice one.
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The Knicks Blog thinks David Lee has a chance.
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Ditto with Red's Army and Rajon Rondo
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Ditto with WaitingForNextYear and Mo Williams.
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Fear the Sword isn't so concerned with an All-Star berth for Mo Williams, but rather respect for the Cavaliers, who have lost starters Zydrunas Ilgauskas and Delonte West for stretches of this season:
As a basketball fan I am saddened by [injuries to the Los Angeles Lakers' Andrew Bynum and the Magic's Nelson], but as a bitter Cavs fan I am waiting to see if the media treats those two teams like they treated the Cavaliers.
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George Thomas of the Akron Beacon Journal is, um, cavalier in his advocating Mo Williams replace Nelson on the All-Star team:
Given Williams' impact and the Cavs' record, the NBA - that means David Stern in this case - has the chance to right an injustice.
Speaking objectively, the real injustice would have been if Williams made the team instead of Nelson. It's moot now.
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Jason Williams is banned from the NBA?
I had no idea. I saw a photo of him watching the Heat when the Mavs were in Miami. That’s horrible news about Jameer. I guess those Cavs fans can be happy now, unless someone from Boston is picked.
He signed with the Clippers, then bailed on them
It’s sort of a no-compete clause, I guess, like how Billy Donovan can’t coach in the NBA for a while.
Unannounced "suspension"?
Sounds like J-Will is on double-secret probation from the league.
The timing sucks. Sorry about that.
Get well soon Jameer
Damon Stoudemire, Smush Parker, Dan Dickau and Jeff McInnis are all FAs right now as well. If I were GM, I would seriously look at signing a true veteran PG with both passing and decent scoring prowess: Stoudemire or McInnis.
I don't like ANY of those PG's listed.
Sorry. I’ll pass. They’re no better than A.J. at this point in their respective careers.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
There's a reason why they're Free Agents.
It’s because they’re not very good at this point ..
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
either way
you still need a back-up for him..
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
Right. But the Magic can do better than those four listed above.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
Yep. I'm curious to see what GM Otis Smith does.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
I think Arroyo might be a viable option
Assuming he would want to bother returning to the Magic. There didn’t seem to be bad blood, but it wasn’t exactly a good parting either.
He pretty much knows the system, and he has always been decent as a starter (if not spectacular). Besides, seeing Van Gundy go into epileptic fits when Arroyo commits a turnover while trying to be flashy would be priceless.
Arroyo can't return
he’s under contract this year in Europe
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 2:44 PM EST up reply actions
That's true, but .. nothing is guaranteed when you have a contract in Europe.
The possibility is always there for Arroyo to return to the NBA.
Would he return to the Magic? Not sure.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
Hm...
Firstly, if anyone from the Celtics is going to get in, it’s going to be Ray Allen. Secondly, I’m going to wonder if any of you would consider this…
tempting
But I can’t see the Knicks pulling the trigger on that one. Plus, Nate Robinson has a bad wrap. That’s a big turnoff for Otis.
by magic fanatic on Feb 3, 2009 1:38 PM EST up reply actions
I would do that in heartbeat.
64 point avg for 25 poitn avg.. No way they make that trade.
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
lol what
Lee and Robinson would be rentals, since they’re due extensions this summer and the Magic can’t afford them. Chandler’s a decent combo forward. Al Harrington is like a billionaire’s Brian Cook.
Dunno about that.
I’d LOVE to see Turk in D’Antoni’s offense, though. Hypothetically.
Perhaps...
Just trying to mix things up. What with Turk going out and all, let Harrington expire and you have money to extend Lee at the least. Robinson would be a sort of short term rental, but you do end up with a little bit of cap flexibility. Just trying to think beyond this season. Granted you probably won’t be able to get Donnie Walsh to throw in Wilson Chandler, but another option might be trying to get Lee or something while eating Jared Jeffries’s contract at the same time. Either way. Nothing in the PG slot is going to be a permanent fix, and honestly I can’t see much that I’d commit to, at least no one that you can get for value. Steve Blake is something, but not worth Hedo, unless you can get a third team in there that will sweeten the deal somehow, and honestly, I can’t see any team giving anyone anything of worth for Blake.
To clarify, I didn't mean for "lol what" to sound condescending, as it does in retrospect. My apologies.
Take Chandler out of that deal and MAYBE the Knicks would do it, although I’m sure they’d rather take Lee and Chandler both out and include, say, Malik Rose’s crappy contract with Harrington and Robinson.
The funny/sad thing about Steve Blake is he, too, has a dislocated shoulder.
This sucks....
I really hope he can come back. I hate for any team to lose quality talent due to injury. Wishing him the best…..
by John Bena (aka CavsBlogger) on Feb 3, 2009 1:50 PM EST reply actions
I think the best options
Either Chucky Atkins or Keyon Dooling.might be the most attractive options here.
As a Kings fan, I would hope the Magic might consider trading Redick and Cook straight up for Beno, but I doubt the Magic would do that considering how long Beno’s contract is. But, thats something the Kings should do if the Magic offered that.
Losing Nelson for many seasons is worse than losing him for the rest of 1 season. So in a sense, unless you don’t think you have a chance to improve on this season, then it’s wise to find a different way.
But, for the cynical in all of you, here’s the trade machine link for Cook/Redick for Beno (and Quincy Douby would probably have to be thrown in as well for roster purposes in Sacramento).
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....
Beno's contract is insanely prohibitive
Maybe last year the Magic would have made that deal. Dunno about now.
Yep
I don’t think Orlando would do that. On the other hand, Beno & Jameer don’t tie up your cap completely to the point where you couldn’t deal Beno again. I’m not going to waste my time saying this, but there aren’t many players out there that would be readily available that wouldn’t be a risk long term for Orlando.
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....
Atkins, no. Dooling, yes.
As for your trade proposal, no.
Only player you mentioned I feel could be a legitimate replacement for Nelson is Dooling.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
OMG
The sky is falling……letys trade Hedo…..lets overpay for a PG…….damn it the sky is falling…..can’t you see…..season is over……..
I for one have a real respect for this teams toughness. Take last night, they could have packed it on but they kept battling. Sure Jameer will be missed (and I will be shocked if he is back this year…its in his and the teams best interests to shut that type of injury down, get it fixed and have him ready for next year) but their are options and the good news is regardless of what happens the Magic have pretty much a lock on the 3 seed. Get a vet (I say Stoudemire, but there are others as Ben Q pointed out) sign him to a prorated minimum contract (a worth vet would love to get minutes with a top team, sorta the last harrah). Then its PG by committee, AJ, new guy, Hedo, Lee, whatever matchup works.
The good news, the Magic fly under the radar again, SVG has shown himself to be a very adaptable coach (creative too), the team gets almost half a seasn to fingure this out, I still don’t think the Cavs are bulletproof AND I will take my chances with the Celtics.
The real fun is just begining…..
Depending on who the player is, the Magic still may have a shot at winning a Title this year.
But the probability of that occurring has taken a HUGE hit with Jameer gone.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
Press Conference this afternoon?
I saw on the news at noon that there was supposed to be a scheduled press conference for around 2PM. Any news on that (channel, time)?
"Never underestimate the heart of a champion" - Rudy Tomjanovich
For whatever it's worth
Another of my StR brethren just had this idea. It includes Moore and Battie, but I doubt anybody around here will love the idea anymore than mine.
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....
Gordon can't be traded without his consent ala Devean George
But, if you don’t understand what I mean by that, read this.
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....
He's not much of a point guard
He has a fairly decent handle, but he’s not ever really looking to pass the ball.
And that too
Gordon is really an undersized SG.
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....
No on Ben Gordon, he's not the answer and the Bulls wouldn't trade him anyway.
Paxson is stupid, but he’s not THAT stupid.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
They can't trade Gordon without his consent
So it’s really a moot 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....
with all due respect to the Cavs fans
but what are they talking about? No respect? Cavs are consistently ranked higher than the Magic even tho they lost two starters, is that not respect? Or are they talking about media not excusing them for the loss to Magic because of the two injuries? First of all, excuses are for wimps, and second of all, it’s a freaking regular season game. They lost, Magic won, big deal. Seriously, I don’t get why some Cavs fans feel that somehow the Cavs are less of a contender because more people believe in the Magic; is the LeBron 2010 situation make them all this insecure?
No excuses necessary....
I just want the coverage to be the same, that’s all. Just the coverage.
by John Bena (aka CavsBlogger) on Feb 3, 2009 2:48 PM EST up reply actions
fair enough, however,
NBA players get injured all the time, and while Z and West a good players, Nelson is a newly minted All-star and by most accounts a huge if not THE reason magic is even up there with the Cavs this season. Oh and on top of that, Cavs have former all stars in Ben and Wally (and couple more backup bigs and SGs) to fill in, while Magic has only AJ, so it adds to the intrigue (which I guarantee is not intentional. I hope) as to what would Magic do. So I think a little extra coverage is justified (if it does get more coverage, that is. haven’t exploded all over the web yet outside the Magic circle).
Now as for why Bynum’s injury is getting all the ink, I dunno, must be an LA thing.
All Cleveland fans are insecure
I know…born and raise there. Dropped the Cavs for the Magic (using the “I moved here before the team was created (1986) therefore I am allowed to switch rooting interests without penalty” fan exemption) but still closely follow the Tribe and Browns.
You have to be a Cleveland fan to truly understand the pain involved.
Your fan exemption stands per "fan allegiance rules". Nicely done.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
What am I missing here?
As a basketball fan I am saddened by [injuries to the Los Angeles Lakers’ Andrew Bynum and the Magic’s Nelson], but as a bitter Cavs fan I am waiting to see if the media treats those two teams like they treated the Cavaliers.
How did the media treat those two teams when they had injured players? By putting on national television once a week?
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
Just reported....
By Brian Schmitz – Jameer’s electing for likely season-ending surgery.
LOL
I’m still on the bandwagon, but I’m a realist. Unless the Magic get a player via trade that can put up (somewhat) comparable statistics to Nelson at the PG spot, I don’t like Orlando’s chances at this point to be a threat to either the Cavs or Celtics.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
And this is actaully something I agree with you on.
No title this year, sad, but let’s face the facts. I really don’t have faith in Otis to bring in a quality PG via trade either.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 4:12 PM EST up reply actions
This is so awful
God. Poor Jameer.
:(
"Pretty good day for the Magic." - Stan Van Gundy, Captain Understatement
and now he's out for the rest of the season
this sucks so much.
"Pretty good day for the Magic." - Stan Van Gundy, Captain Understatement
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 3, 2009 3:32 PM EST up reply actions
damn you, basketball gods!!
why has thou forsaken us?? ;_;
"Pretty good day for the Magic." - Stan Van Gundy, Captain Understatement
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 3, 2009 3:37 PM EST up reply actions
WOW...
Otis Smith made it official that Jameer would have season ending surgery..sad day for the Magic.
"Never underestimate the heart of a champion" - Rudy Tomjanovich
Yeah, it's bit the Magic hard this year. Real hard.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
Well .. not like the Clips are competing for a Title this year.
Jazz are .. but even at full-strength I don’t see them beating the Lakers and/or Spurs.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
So does that change anything?
I guess Otis should now be looking at maybe signing/trading for a young player and develop for next year instead of finding a veteran as stopgap? Or just ride it out with AJ and Hedo split point duty?
He needed to make a move for a young guy BEFORE the injury
So this situation obviously increases the urgency
Otis has NO CHOICE now.
No choice, he HAS to make a move to solve the PG problem.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
I have questioned all of Smith's moves in the past...
…but the only one that I ever had a slight problem in was signing AJ. With Lewis’ and Nelson’s contracts aside, that money was obviously well spent so far. We’re just going to have to have faith in Otis’ moves (now sometime in the relatively near future).
"Never underestimate the heart of a champion" - Rudy Tomjanovich
I have faith in Otis.
His major blunder (Fran Vasquez) can be easily explained.
He didn’t go with his gut. Smith has openly admitted that was the only move he’s ever made while with the Magic that he didn’t go with his instincts.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
I have no faith in Otis.
When is the last time he made a noteworth mid season deal? Was it Ariza for Cook and Bogans? Because, well, yeah, Ariza is tearing it up on LA while Cook and Bogans don’t play.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 4:13 PM EST up reply actions
IT was Cook and Evans
But it really doesn’t matter, same player
by magic fanatic on Feb 3, 2009 9:44 PM EST up reply actions
Does "Out for the season" include the playoffs?
Let’s face it, with ‘meer out in the playoffs we’re in hot water in the 1st round. Someone please tell me that there’s a chance he’ll be back in the POs….dammit!!
"Never underestimate the heart of a champion" - Rudy Tomjanovich
Doubt it. Wouldn't want to rush Jameer back with an injury like that.
Too risky.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
Dammit!
Well this sucks. This is a major problem on so many fronts. Do they use the exception that would cost them $6 mil to use and in luxury tax area? Do they trade Turk? Draft picks? Dammit all!
Championship may be out for this year, but I would be content with a second round appearance. Ugh.
I seriously just prayed for Jameer's health..
I really hope he gets well soon and Otis makes a very good move in the upcoming weeks.
"Never underestimate the heart of a champion" - Rudy Tomjanovich
All we can do, as fans, is cross our fingers and hope for the best.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
Wow. What a day.
Had four wisdom teeth pulled, returned home to see Nelson out for the year. Bye Bye championship hopes.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
Yeah, Otis is going to be forced into making a move.
His last mid-season move didn’t work out at all. Bogans & Cookie monster don’t play, while Ariza is getting serious minutes for a championship contender (prior to his injury.) Now with Nelson out for the year AND not having already acquired a viable backup PGs other teams realize they now have Orlando in a stranglehold. Either overpay, or ride out the season with what you have. Knowing Otis and his propensity to being stubborn, I really don’t see a noteworthy starting PG showing up in Disney this year.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
Needless to say, this is just a horrible and unfortunate situation
I really hope we can make the best out of it. Again, good teams must learn to handle adversity. This is certainly very challenging for the Magic and I wish them nothing but the best. I’m not about to go into doom-and-gloom mode yet.
My sentiments exactly
Hope you had a good time at the game last night despite the Magic loss and the injury to Nelson.
by Mike from Illinois on Feb 3, 2009 6:01 PM EST up reply actions
I agree
but, winning a championship has a lot of luck involved.
Lakers lost last year because they were soft in the middle. Why were they soft? No Bynum. Injuries can play a key factor in winning and losing.
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
Have Hedo run the Point Forward
Dwight
Rashard
Hedo
Peitrus
Lee
Peitrus would just have to catch fire on offense for the rest of the season and nail a few 3s.
I want Baldelli to be healthy enough to play in 150 games, I just hope he sucks. Like Greg Vaughn suck.
makes sense
but, the bench production will go down dramitically..
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
Uhh, Pietrus is going to be injured and join Jameer
with the “out for the season” tag, sooner than later.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 6:25 PM EST up reply actions
Its like being able to see the pinnacle of the mountain on a hike
and suddenly being caught in an avalanche. It sucks!
"I have come that you may have life, and life to the max"
Unfortunately there's no one availalbe...
Honestly there just aren’t a lot of points that could handle a reserve role while also being capable of stepping up to a starting role as well. That makes Hedo probably the best ball-handler on the Magic, which makes him now nigh untradeable. You’d either be getting a rental, paying too much for someone who ultimately is a reserve, or something along those lines. Ultimately, you need someone serviceable, and I think outside of getting another point, you make up for Nelson’s contribution by somehow getting a decent PF. Like SeanDubbs, I’m not opposed to having Hedo play point for some time.
D-league
There’s a good fanshot linking to a Ridiculous Upside post showing off 6 or 7 guys we could look at from the D-league who might be able to help.
Let’s face it, we’re not going to get anyone as good as Jameer in a trade, so we’re going to be sticky taping the season together at best. If we look at a D-leaguer, maybe we can find a long term solution to the backup point that can let us boost AJ back to third choice next season.
by eltharion_doa on Feb 4, 2009 3:18 PM EST up reply actions
J.J. to Portland for Sergio Rodriguez !!!!
or Cook for Sergio Rodriguez !!!
or both for Sergio Rodriguez !!!
redick and cook each make over 2 mil. rodriguez makes under 1m. steve blake makes 4.25m . cook and redick together is almost 5m.
blake improves our defense but rodriguez could be lightning running our offense …
portland sure looks like a good trade partner to me
In speaking with the boys over at Blazers Edge, Rodriguez could be had.
Question is, do the Magic have the pieces to make a trade? It really all depends on what exactly Portland is looking for. If it’s expiring contracts and/or picks, then maybe something can happen. If not, then it wouldn’t appear a trade could occur.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
cap space
since the Darius Miles deal went sideways.
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
The Blazers will certainly trade Sergio for the right trade
I actually think he would be a good fit on a team of shooters like the Magic.
Here is a brief scouting report on Sergio:
1) His jump shot is broken. He cannot hit the 3.
2) Plays very bad defense
3) Can drive but is a bad finisher.
4) Great court vision
5) Not an NBA starter
6) Leaves his big man (Oden) out to dry on defense.
"Only dunk and go to the defense." Rudy Fernandez
I don't mind Rodriguez as a back-up PG option, but nothing more. Even with his flaws (as you stated), he'd be an upgrade over Anthony Johnson.
.. I just don’t think Orlando has the tools to make a trade work with Portland. Yeah, the Magic have some assets but not sure any of them interest the Blazers at this point.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
nah
Sergio is actually starting for the Blazers right now because Blake dislocated his shoulder (its going around isn’t it?) and the Blazers have been 7-2. We don’t need Cook or JJ.
"Only dunk and go to the defense." Rudy Fernandez
Go for a big...
Or JJ Barea?
There’s no way a guy who would be able to fill the PG void fully would fit into the Magic in the long term. If Orlando got Beno they’d basically be paying a starter’s salary to someone who backs up Jameer indefinitely, his contract is kind of like Pietrus’s, in a way also that means I don’t want another one.
Portland may seem like it has a lot of what we need, but we can’t really offer Portland a whole lot in return. While Portland might desire some cap flexibility with the whole Darius Miles saga, I don’t see them jumping for Redick or Cook just so they can trade off Sergio. Ultimately, Portland would want something of value, which Orlando would be unwilling or unable to give up. Steve Blake for Hedo Turkoglu just sounds stupid, adding in Channing Frye or Ike Diogu is equally as dumb, and I don’t know that Portland would be really interested in anyone outside of Turkoglu, I don’t know that they’d even be interested in Hedo.
Orlando is not going to get anything of extraordinary value from any team, while they have a couple of expiring contracts (Cook, Bogans) the only team really collecting said contracts that has any player that would be of major value would probably be New York in the form of David Lee (who would be beast next to Dwight). However, in pursuing an acquisition of Lee, Donnie Walsh could likely ask for something relatively unreasonable, such as Turkoglu and a pick for Lee and Jared Jeffries. Ultimately then, Orlando would lose a lot of cap flexibility in resigning both Lee and Jameer with Jeffries still on the books.
I’m gonna have to go out on a limb and say use those pieces you’re proposing to get a backup PG with for a blue-collar big man to play next to Dwight Howard, Anthony Johnson/Hedo can tide the Magic by at least for the rest of the season. Granted, going all the way just got exponentially more difficult, but I think that’s the best bet and maintains long-term sustainability. Everyone, players included, understand that any PG that ends up in Orlando is a short-term solution before relegation to being a backup or let go.
Unless you want to try to see if you can squeeze something back out of Steve Francis or perhaps make more progress with Shaun Livingston.
Players like Barbosa, Watson, and Udrih just make way too much money going forward. Barbosa is doable because you can slide him over to the SG slot once Nelson gets back, but still.
Nice thorough post. I agree on most of your points.
I will say that Barbosa would make sense, because as you said .. he could easily side to the SG spot next season (when Nelson returns) and help the Magic create more depth by allowing C. Lee to become a "super-sub", of sorts.
At first I wasn’t on board with Felton, but now I am because he presents a realistic short-term solution to Orlando’s PG problems and he’s a restricted Free Agent after this year, so there would be no log-jam situation when Jameer comes back next season.
So yeah ..
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
Nate Robinson for Jameer.
I don’t like Nate either, especially his attitude, but JJ clearly doesn’t have a spot here and JJ would fit in perfectly in D’Antonio’s system. Just get it done and let’s play basketball.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
For Jameer? Hell NO!!!!
For JJ – No
"Never underestimate the heart of a champion" - Rudy Tomjanovich
Nate for JJ dialed.
JJ is a role player at best.. He really isn’t that great of NBA shooter, can’t create his own shot, and he can’t defend anyone.
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
You don't have to defend anyone in D'Atoni's system
again, perfect fit.
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"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 8:31 PM EST up reply actions
Nate for J.J. ? That'd never happen. Sorry.
Nate Robinson >>> J.J Redick.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
LOL sorry guys...
I DEFINITELY meant J.J. i’ve had my wisdom teeth pulled today and have been loopy all day.
I’d do JJ for Nate in a second, I think J.J. would fit perfectly in D’Antoni’s system, he’ll never play on this team, too many SGs. The brass in NY doesn’t like Nate and his attitude and he’s a FA after this year, I think they’d pull the trigger.
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"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 8:27 PM EST up reply actions
Oh ok
either way, I just dont think its in our best interest to acquire an even more undersized PG (that btw, plays like a SG). I just think we can get more outta JJ than that.
"Never underestimate the heart of a champion" - Rudy Tomjanovich
Nate Robinson may be undersized but he's like .. 10x better than Redick.
I mean .. it’s not even close.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
I think you're overvaluing Nate Robinson
he’d be a rental as he’s a FA and the organization isn’t happy his attitude, practice habits and tendency to acquire pointless technical fouls. Maybe J.J. and a future second rounder?
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"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 8:31 PM EST up reply actions
after the write-up
I dont’ want Nate, we don’t need any head cases. Nate is the same player who sucker punched a team-mate in the locker room right?
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
I don't know about that
he’d be a rental either way as he’s a FA at season’s end. The Magic are a very veteran team that would not allow him to come in and cause problems. Do you really want problems with Dwight, or worse, SVG?
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"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 9:45 PM EST up reply actions
Dwight, I would take on any day of the week
SVG, on the other hand, there’s no way I’m taking a shot at him unless it is with a gun at close range. Even then, I would run very far away just in case Stan stood back up.
Right but...
only if he’s the only person that will make a move with us for our current situation.
I personally would rather pair JJ and others for a maybe higher caliber player than Nate Robinson. Im not knocking on Nate in any way, but I just think we can do better. You’re right about JJ and Nate’s potential differential though.
"In order for us to make a move, It has to make sense" - Otis Smith's favorite saying
don't start anthony johnson
have lee/turk switch up bringing the ball up the court.
anthony johnson is DONE. guy cannot even handle a little ball pressure- it’s always the back to the basket routine. he limits us in more ways than i can probably even think right now.
this is fkng awful man, god damn.
www.last.fm/user/mhetrick04
Yeah, A.J. is washed up. Opposing teams are going to salivate matching up against him for 25-30 MPG for the time being.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
Isn't AJ something like 6-1 as a starter this season
with the only loss at Boston? Don’t get wrong, I wish he’d retire today, that way Otis would be FORCED into doing something as it doesn’t look like he’s going to make a move.
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"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 9:47 PM EST up reply actions
The Magic were 4-1 with A.J. as starter.
The four wins came against .. Washington, Indiana (a team that doesn’t play defense), Philadelphia (a team in disarray at the time), and Minnesota (a team that wasn’t playing well at that time).
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
wins are wins in the NBA
but don’t get me wrong, he sucks, I wish he’d fall off of this earth.
With all that being said, Depaul’s putting up a nice fight through the first half eh?
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"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 9:55 PM EST up reply actions
Eh, it won't last for DePaul.
They’ll get crushed in the second half because of the coaching staff’s inability to ever make adjustments at halftime, as opposed to their opponents.
I’m willing to bet DePaul will lose by about 15-20 points.
Just wait for it.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
well
I hope you’re right, I did bet on it. Marquette -10
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"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 10:08 PM EST up reply actions
So is there a reason
why the Depaul fan’s hold their arms crossed in an “X” while their own team is shooting free throws?
Marquette just made their first FT in 7 minutes.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 10:35 PM EST up reply actions
Students hold up their index finger for the first free-throw attempt.
Then cross their arms with both index fingers extended for the second free-throw attempt.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
interesting, any significance?
I could see Xavier doing that or something,but why Depaul?
Damn. Your boys need to get in the gym and shoot some FTs.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 10:42 PM EST up reply actions
I don't know why, to be honest.
As for the team, they’re doomed until a better coaching staff comes along (which may not happen for the foreseeable future). And even if a new coach were to arrive, the talent on DePaul is terrible compared to the rest of the Big East.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
Time to drink up
Cause theres only one fix for this kind of situation.
Lakers are out of it without Gasol
Celtics are out of it without Pierce
Magic are out of it without Nelson.
Like Lennon said, the dream is over.
Yep, it's baseball season.
Sports Picks 365
"Shoot first, ask questions last" Jameer Nelson
by DieSlowKeyshawn on Feb 3, 2009 10:17 PM EST up reply actions
How good are the team without Nelson?
I’ve long thought Nelson to be the key difference maker between Orlando being a very good team and a contender. I think the Dwight/Lewis/Hedo combination make the Magic a very good team, but that they absolutely need that extra scorer/playmaker in order to make them an elite squad.
No Nelson = No high quality replacement (extremely unlikely) = No Championship hopes.
http://nbaroundtable.wordpress.com/
Agreed.
That’s the key .. if Nelson returns sometime this year, then Orlando’s championship hopes are still alive. Granted, Jameer won’t be at full strength but it’s better than nothing.
If ‘Meer decides to opt for surgery now, then it’s imperative GM Otis Smith find a high-level replacement player to fill in for Nelson this season. The player doesn’t even need to be around for the long-term, just this season will suffice.
Former Senior Writer for DePaul's Scout.com website
Just heard the news
Wow this sucks. As a Lakers fan I can relate to the misery, watching Bynum go down, and as a person I can relate, having a labral tear myself (although mine’s in my hip). It seems like just when Jameer was shutting up his critics, filling his potential, this had to happen. But from what I know, the guy’s mentally tough.
Here’s to hoping he fights his way back and makes it in time for the playoffs.
bleh...
Man yesterday was such a crappy day. I had a bad day at work, and then come home and read this. I’ve been a fan of Jameer’s since I watched him play in his senior year of college. He’s very tough, and I still don’t doubt he will make every effort come back, it just sucks he had to get injured when he was playing so well.
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