For the last two seasons, Basketball Prospectus has been at the cutting edge of the NBA's statistical revolution, exploring how teams win and why as well as integrating plenty of old-fashioned tape and first-hand observation to analyze players and teams. Now, we're following in the footsteps of our predecessors at Baseball Prospectus and our college counterparts by providing that same level of insight in book form.
I'm proud to state that Third Quarter Collapse makes an appearance in Pro Basketball Prospectus 2009-10, specifically in the Orlando Magic section (naturally).
Here's what we had to say:
When Jason Williams returned from retirement and signed with the Orlando Magic as a free agent in mid-August, somehow the notion developed from a small pocket of sportswriters that the possibility of a point guard controversy may arise if Jameer Nelson struggles to return to the All-Star form he magnificently displayed last year. To suggest that such a development could occur seems almost completely absurd, even in the absolute worst-case scenario for Nelson from a statistical standpoint (excluding injury), given the fact that Williams is over a year removed from playing competitive basketball. Jameer, at his worst (the NBA Finals, notwithstanding), would still be better than what Jason is expected to bring to the table, assuming he can match his production during his last season with the Miami Heat in 2007-2008. Which is no guarantee, to say the least.
There's much more that's written about the Orlando Magic, including a team essay, as well as commentary on each player on the roster, etc. So, please support this book!
If you've been a reader of 3QC for a while, you'll know that we like to constantly reference the work of Bradford Doolittle and Kevin Pelton because it is top-notch. Both men do an excellent job of combining first-hand observation with advanced statistics to provide the most accurate and thorough insight for you, the reader. I must say that Pro Basketball Prospectus 2009-10 is THE book to buy because it offers an in-depth examination of every team in the NBA, it examines the most relevant league topics which have dominated the headlines these past few years, and much more.
Digital download is $9.95, print version is $19.95 ... it's worth it, seriously.