Jamal Crawford

[sf giants r the best]

:banghead: NO NO NO NO NO!

Kings, Blazers and Knicks finalists to sign the one-dimensional 2 guard. Knicks offer the least money, but possibly the best team. Blazers offer a guaranteed starting spot and the Kings offer the most money. Crawford resides in Seattle, so he's familiar with the Northwest area and not far from home. The Kings said he could crack the lineup by mid season (can't anyone?).

This would be an AWFUL signing for the Kings. The last thing they need is another black hole on offense, they need someone who can gel this team together (cough Kirilenko cough), someone who with give a little on defense and doesn't need the ball in their hands at all times. Crawford would only set this team back IMO, when Kirilenko could have them challenging for the playoffs.

And, if the Kings sign him, they plan on releasing the only player who seems to care about playing defense (besides Hayes) in Francisco Garcia. This move has Maloofs written all over it, I could see them wanting a high volume scorer and excitement. This move makes no basketball sense whatsoever.

http://www.csnnw.com/pages/landingblazers?Source-Blazers-promised-Crawford-startin=1&blockID=611954&feedID=5212

Also, I find it sad that the Maloofs don't like the perception from outsiders that they are "sitting on their money", so they go out and push for a stupid move and over pay for him. I can't stand these owners much longer.

[Eze]

I believe Jason Jones said they're still in on Kirilenko (it's really up to him if he wants to leave Russia) but the Crawford deal wouldn't hamper any AK deal.

I think it's stupid to amnesty Garcia simply because he's easily tradeable (much more than a Salmons given their contracts). My thinking, as to why Petrie is interested, is because he's not confident in Jimmer this year (which is fine). He's apparently been having a pretty rough time at practice so far on the defensive end and seeing the floor (horrible time passing), so given the fact they're trying to win now and Crawford only wants a one year deal - I'm guessing he feels more at ease and thinks the Kings have a better chance to win right now with Crawford.

[sf giants r the best]

I just think that if they are worried about Jimmer on defense and passing then bring in a player who can do those things more proficiently rather than bringing someone in who excels in the same areas. Kirilenko would greatly deepen the SF spot and shore up defense, then bring in a veteran PG if Jimmer can't cut it.

[Eze]

My *guess* would be they want somebody who can play PG and somebody who can score off the bench, both of which Crawford does. He also is only a one year deal (pretty unheard of for his ability) so Kings love that idea.

I don't like it really, but, if Petrie is concerned with playing Fredette major minutes, I see what he's trying to do. No way do the Kings have interest if Crawford wanted three years or something, but at a one year risk, still gives him flexibility for 2012.

Crawford's essentially the PG version of Salmons, with shittier defense and better offense. It's all NO NO NO NO NO YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS lol

[SactoIV]

Not a huge fan of Crawford, but a one-year deal is not the end of the world.

[Eze]

Reports from practice say Jimmer is shooting well, but, again struggling on defense and having issues running fast breaks.

[Eze]

Amick - Jamal Crawford was reaching out to folks within last few hours asking whether to choose Portland or Sacto. My prediction remains Portland.

[Gunshot]

why would he pick Sac?
he will be fighting for minutes and if he starts bricking he won't get ANY

in Portland he could start

[Eze]

They were saying last night he could start over Thornton lol

[Gunshot]

maybe for a minute...till he gets lit up

[Eze]

Jamal Crawford texts that he is still undecided. My sense is he is leaning toward Sacramento. Style of play is a big factor for him.

FML

[bloatedmaniac]

I believe Jason Jones said they're still in on Kirilenko (it's really up to him if he wants to leave Russia) but the Crawford deal wouldn't hamper any AK deal.

I think it's stupid to amnesty Garcia simply because he's easily tradeable (much more than a Salmons given their contracts). My thinking, as to why Petrie is interested, is because he's not confident in Jimmer this year (which is fine). He's apparently been having a pretty rough time at practice so far on the defensive end and seeing the floor (horrible time passing), so given the fact they're trying to win now and Crawford only wants a one year deal - I'm guessing he feels more at ease and thinks the Kings have a better chance to win right now with Crawford.

Garcia isn't easily tradeable unless the Kings want to take an equal-worse contract back for him. He is an average swingman making over $5M per year and is constantly injured. Nobody wants a piece of that.

In regards to Jimmer I agree with you that the Kings lack confidence in him right now. He was never expected to play defense in college and was a shoot first PG. To all of a sudden transform his game coming to the NBA will take a lot of time and practice. The Kings have looked at lot of guard...especially point guard options this summer including the great JJ Berea so you know the Kings aren't sold.

I'd be ok with Crawford though if its only 1 year, and he wouldn't mind coming off the bench if Thornton is still a stud. IMO...HE SHOULD NOT START OVER THORNTON. Let the guy prove himself since he is signed long term and young. Sadly, a ballhog SG who can score is better than what the team previously had in players who miss every shot, can't play defense, and looked mentally zoned out.

[Gunshot]

Crawford wants a two year deal with a player option on the second...
take em Portland

[Eze]

Garcia isn't easily tradeable unless the Kings want to take an equal-worse contract back for him. He is an average swingman making over $5M per year and is constantly injured. Nobody wants a piece of that.

The Mavs have long asked for Garcia - don't think the Heat would mind him either. For a TPE or 10th man, I think he's moveable.

[Eze]

Crawford wants a two year deal with a player option on the second...
take em Portland

He's a smart guy. Already declined that offer in Indiana. Can't have your cake and eat it too - well, hopefully not...you hear that Geoff? lol

[Gunshot]

Garcia is still owed 18 million for 3 years...team option on the third, though
He's tough to move IMHO

[bloatedmaniac]

The Mavs have long asked for Garcia - don't think the Heat would mind him either. For a TPE or 10th man, I think he's moveable.

The only time I recall Garcia being linked to the Mavs was in the Kmart deal, they were willing to take his contract over Beno's. I also doubt the Kings would hold on to Garcia if anyone would want him. Being paid $6M for the 30 games he plays a year is hard pill to swallow for any team. Even the Heat can find better for cheap. Kind of like Shane Battier for 3 years @ $9M total...half of what Garcia makes.

Not hating on Garcia. If he is waived someone will pick him up on the cheap. Its just with his current contract he just isn't worth the money now.

[ctba]

He is heading to portland

[Gunshot]

as was always the case
and Kirilenko is probably Brooklyn bound

[Eze]

So when AK opts to play elsewhere, the Kings offered the most lucrative deal to two borderline starter (but decent) FA's and will lose out on both. lol

[ctba]

So when AK opts to play elsewhere, the Kings offered the most lucrative deal to two borderline starter (but decent) FA's and will lose out on both. lol\

Maybe we will get Delembert signed?!

[Eze]

Eh. lol

[ctba]

or maybe we should be getting the site converted over to the Anaheim Royals?

[Eze]

Good luck trying to get a mention now with Pujols and Chris Paul in LA. Smooth move, Maloofs :heehee:

[bloatedmaniac]

So when AK opts to play elsewhere, the Kings offered the most lucrative deal to two borderline starter (but decent) FA's and will lose out on both. lol

The Kings are officially the Oakland A's of basketball when it comes to free agency.

The scary part is...at least AK and Jamal can contribute....now just wait for the Kings to overpay the next Mikki Moore who you know will be beyond useless in desperation to make a signing.

[ctba]

The Kings are officially the Oakland A's of basketball when it comes to free agency.

The scary part is...at least AK and Jamal can contribute....now just wait for the Kings to overpay the next Mikki Moore who you know will be beyond useless in desperation to make a signing.

you broke a rule

[Eze]

Petrie seems determined (though, he's failing) on finding somebody to sign for one year. First it was Hayes - then Crawford. Wouldn't be shocked if he gives Dalembert a one year, 8-9 million deal since Sammy overvalued himself.

He'll probably wait until the Rockets make a decision though.

[sf giants r the best]

How about Travis Outlaw? Yes, he had an absolutely terrible year with the Nets last year, but hes still young and he was very good coming off the bench in Portland prior to last year. The Kings need to spend the money somewhere and if they miss out on Kirilenko, may as well try Outlaw and see if he can bounce back.

[Eze]

Holy shit - Outlaw's been in the league nine years?

[PackfanMatt_12]

No Jamal Crawford no AK-47
YES!!!!!!!!!

[BosnianBaller_]

not sure why they were pursuing jamal crawford. he's in his 30s and cant do anything other than jack up 3's. and then there is the whole issue where we already have a crowded backcourt with tyreke, salmons, thornton, and jimmer. although i really wouldnt mind us going after kirilenko with a one year or two year deal. he adds length and defense at either the small forward or power forward spot.

[nuraman00]

no AK-47
NO!!!!!!!!!

Fixed. :heehee:

[PackfanMatt_12]

hahaha you dont like Hickson. I dont like AK 47

[Eze]

I like em both. What do I win!?

[bloatedmaniac]

I like em both. What do I win!?

A Mikki Moore jersey.

Haha, I'm not a fan of Hickson either, but the guy is young...he is a Kings player now so I'll root for him. AK-47 has had his issues, in large part due to his previous contract but he is willing to do the little things that most players ignore (defense, rebounding, passing) so I like having a guy like that around at the right price. Having him, a healthy Tyreke and Hayes with Salmons off the bench is such a big upgrade defensively from last year. This team will score (with some cold periods) but it'll at least be better able to slow other teams down on occassion too. Too bad he'll likely go to the Nets due to Russian ties.

[Eze]

I think I might like Hickson more simply because I wasn't thrilled with Casspi's regression. lol

[Gunshot]

Tomorrows starting line up is:

Jimmer
Reke
Thornton
Hickson
Thompson

Don Nelson will be the guest coach

[Eze]

I'm worried to see what Curry and Ellis to to Jimmer lol

[nuraman00]

hahaha you dont like Hickson. I dont like AK 47

I just think there's good PF/C's out there in FA now (Humphries, Dalembert, Kirilenko). And if Hickson were backing those guys up, then I'd be fine.

Right now, Hickson is backing up Hayes or Thompson. Or he's starting. That's not good.

[PackfanMatt_12]

why do people like Humphroes. He may be the stupidest player in the NBA. No thank you

[prostacker]

I'm worried to see what Curry and Ellis to to Jimmer lol

Don't worry having watched alot of Warriors games last year Curry will have the same trouble on the defensive end

[nuraman00]

why do people like Humphroes. He may be the stupidest player in the NBA. No thank you

Because he averaged a double-double last year while shooting 52.7%.

[Eze]

What about the other years? :D

[nuraman00]

What about the other years? :D

He was a good player off the bench.

2009-11-20 (http://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/200911200DAL.html)

2008-01-16 (http://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/200801160TOR.html)

[nuraman00]

Wins Produced Per 48 Minutes:

2010-2011: .254
2009-2010: .097
2008-2009: .118
2007-2008: .102

Good players like Luol Deng, Devin Harris, Andrew Bogut, or Luis Scola have .100+ per 48 minutes. So he's in line.

And obviously I'm not suggesting anything too absurd, but a 3 or 4 year contract starting at $9M or $10M, that's in line with what players get.

Brad Miller, Tyson Chandler, Samuel Dalembert all got those kinds of contracts between 2003-2005.

[Eze]

I just don't see it with him. He just doesn't strike me as anything but an average role player, at best. Stats have their place, of course, but they never tell the full story. Difference of opinion I guess.

I think I may start rooting for the Clippers if the Kings gave Hump money starting at 9 or 10 a year. lol

[nuraman00]

I just don't see it with him. He just doesn't strike me as anything but an average role player, at best. Stats have their place, of course, but they never tell the full story. Difference of opinion I guess.

I think I may start rooting for the Clippers if the Kings gave Hump money starting at 9 or 10 a year. lol

How would you compare him to Thompson and Hickson?

How would you compare AK to Thompson or Hickson?

I just see it as a way to upgrade the PF spot. I don't see any PFs in the 2012 FA class other than McGee or Hibbert (more of a C anyways), whom are both restricted. So the only other way to upgrade it is to trade for one, and who knows what that could be.

Or, we could let the PF be as is -- not my preferred route. To me, it's more about getting a better PF, and less about Humphries himself. Heck if we can get Scola, that would be even better, lol.

Now that I saw David West only went for 2 years, $20M, the Kings totally could have had him if they asked. He would be even better than Humphries, Hibbert, or AK.

What do you think about the PF spot in general?

I like Hayes. I just want someone who can play 28-33 mins a game, and I think there are some players out there who can. I'd rather have one good starter than the two above-average backup route that appears to be happening.

[Eze]

How would you compare him to Thompson and Hickson?

How would you compare AK to Thompson or Hickson?

I just see it as a way to upgrade the PF spot. I don't see any PFs in the 2012 FA class other than McGee or Hibbert (more of a C anyways), whom are both restricted. So the only other way to upgrade it is to trade for one, and who knows what that could be.

Or, we could let the PF be as is -- not my preferred route. To me, it's more about getting a better PF, and less about Humphries himself. Heck if we can get Scola, that would be even better, lol.

Now that I saw David West only went for 2 years, $20M, the Kings totally could have had him if they asked. He would be even better than Humphries, Hibbert, or AK.

What do you think about the PF spot in general?

I like Hayes. I just want someone who can play 28-33 mins a game, and I think there are some players out there who can. I'd rather have one good starter than the two above-average backup route that appears to be happening.

I don't think any of the three are really any long term solutions. Hickson has the most potential of the three (to me), mostly because scoring is so overvalued and he's only 23 - so if somebody was going to emerge, I'd take him. He's certainly not effective as one should be at the PF position (when talking about solid PF's) nor is his defense very good, but I think for a first big off the bench he's justifiable. I'd suspect Thompson will find his way to backup center since he's a better center than he is PF. Game moves slower for him on both ends - when he has to be out on the floor he's always in retreat mode. He lacks the agility or speed to stay with a number of NBA PF's so letting him deal with the big lugs in the paint is more his speed.

Hayes, right or wrong, looks like he'll be routinely getting 28-30 min a game no matter if it's off the bench or not, but, I'm okay with that. He's easily a top 5 defender for his position. It's a shame you have to have so many one dimensional players on the roster (Cousins/Hickson offensively, Hayes/Thompson defensively) but if you had players as talented as they were on both sides of the ball, you'd call them Kevin Garnett.

It's tough to find an upgrade over what the Kings are going to throw out there, simply because what they're throwing out there is decent. Not great, but, a true improvement would be an All-Star talent which obviously they're not getting.

Given the way the rosters currently assembled, I actually do like the Hayes move as he's a really good passer and really good defender, somebody who doesn't need the ball to be effective, unlike almost all of the starting unit. Between Hayes and Cousins in the post, the Kings have some elite passing big men.

As for AK, I've always thought of him as more of a small forward than PF - though he can play both depending on matchups. Like Hayes, he doesn't need the ball to make an impact on the court, which I like for this roster. Though, I don't think we're going to be getting him as he seems pretty happy in Russia (or playing for the Russian in Jersey). I think he'd be a solid addition. He and Sloan REALLY had issues his last couple years in Utah - he seemed fragile mentally in that regard, like he couldn't handle Sloan's games. I think it really messed with him.

Generally, I think the Kings need a couple shooters - not really fantastic players or anything, just guys that can spread the floor. They need to find themselves a third wheel to go with Evans and Cousins, maybe they already have that in Thornton or Hickson (more likely they don't) and most importantly, but most annoyingly, they just need time. If Cousins and Evans can play like we expect them to, Kings are going to be money within two years with just complimentary players. If they can't, well, I don't think Thornton, Hickson, Thompson or anybody else will be much of a matter lol

[nuraman00]

I don't think any of the three are really any long term solutions. Hickson has the most potential of the three (to me), mostly because scoring is so overvalued and he's only 23 - so if somebody was going to emerge, I'd take him. He's certainly not effective as one should be at the PF position (when talking about solid PF's) nor is his defense very good, but I think for a first big off the bench he's justifiable. I'd suspect Thompson will find his way to backup center since he's a better center than he is PF. Game moves slower for him on both ends - when he has to be out on the floor he's always in retreat mode. He lacks the agility or speed to stay with a number of NBA PF's so letting him deal with the big lugs in the paint is more his speed.

Hayes, right or wrong, looks like he'll be routinely getting 28-30 min a game no matter if it's off the bench or not, but, I'm okay with that. He's easily a top 5 defender for his position. It's a shame you have to have so many one dimensional players on the roster (Cousins/Hickson offensively, Hayes/Thompson defensively) but if you had players as talented as they were on both sides of the ball, you'd call them Kevin Garnett.

It's tough to find an upgrade over what the Kings are going to throw out there, simply because what they're throwing out there is decent. Not great, but, a true improvement would be an All-Star talent which obviously they're not getting.

Given the way the rosters currently assembled, I actually do like the Hayes move as he's a really good passer and really good defender, somebody who doesn't need the ball to be effective, unlike almost all of the starting unit. Between Hayes and Cousins in the post, the Kings have some elite passing big men.

As for AK, I've always thought of him as more of a small forward than PF - though he can play both depending on matchups. Like Hayes, he doesn't need the ball to make an impact on the court, which I like for this roster. Though, I don't think we're going to be getting him as he seems pretty happy in Russia (or playing for the Russian in Jersey). I think he'd be a solid addition. He and Sloan REALLY had issues his last couple years in Utah - he seemed fragile mentally in that regard, like he couldn't handle Sloan's games. I think it really messed with him.

Generally, I think the Kings need a couple shooters - not really fantastic players or anything, just guys that can spread the floor. They need to find themselves a third wheel to go with Evans and Cousins, maybe they already have that in Thornton or Hickson (more likely they don't) and most importantly, but most annoyingly, they just need time. If Cousins and Evans can play like we expect them to, Kings are going to be money within two years with just complimentary players. If they can't, well, I don't think Thornton, Hickson, Thompson or anybody else will be much of a matter lol

Interesting about putting Thompson as a backup C, for his career. That's a good idea.

Agree AK had mental issues. Westphal is a different coach though. And there's less pressure here than in Utah, where he had to answer to his contract. But like you said, the Kings don't seem to be his first choice right now.

Shooters: I'm thinking Thornton is a good start, and Fredette will probably come around. They can always get a cheap shooter later on too, they're easy enough to find.

Agree about the PFs being one-dimensional right now. That's partly why I wanted to do better. AK would be good enough multi-dimensionally. As for Humphries, he seems to be an efficient scorer, and his rebounding is his defense. Ideally his defense would be defense and rebounding both, but he's so good at rebounding that I'd just take that skill.

Now that you mention Hayes passing, I wonder if they can use some high-low sets with Hayes-Cousins. Like Marc Gasol-Zach Randolph, or Divac-Webber. If they can do that, then I think he can play even more minutes than anticipated. I don't know if Westphal has that in his playbook though.

How would you have felt about David West, if he had the same contract here as he has in Indiana?

[Eze]

I've always thought West was a bit of a punk, but more of those that you wish were on your team as opposed to your opponent. lol

His injury/age is concerning, but, it's manageable on a two year deal. He's a bit of a mixed bag for me. His offense is pretty efficient, good high post scorer - would have given the Kings that consistent third scorer that they could use. But, then again, his defense is suspect, just came off a pretty rough injury, isn't really the passer Hayes is and I wonder with the current group if there would have been enough balls to go around with West.

Cousins/West/Salmons/Thornton/Evans is potent offensively, but a couple guys would have had to sacrifice there so I'm not sure the pluses in that scenario outweigh the minuses.

Now, bringing West off the bench (that we'd have had the room anyway) - oh yeah. But he wouldn't have been cool with that.

[bloatedmaniac]

Interesting about putting Thompson as a backup C, for his career. That's a good idea.

Agree AK had mental issues. Westphal is a different coach though. And there's less pressure here than in Utah, where he had to answer to his contract. But like you said, the Kings don't seem to be his first choice right now.

Shooters: I'm thinking Thornton is a good start, and Fredette will probably come around. They can always get a cheap shooter later on too, they're easy enough to find.

Agree about the PFs being one-dimensional right now. That's partly why I wanted to do better. AK would be good enough multi-dimensionally. As for Humphries, he seems to be an efficient scorer, and his rebounding is his defense. Ideally his defense would be defense and rebounding both, but he's so good at rebounding that I'd just take that skill.

Now that you mention Hayes passing, I wonder if they can use some high-low sets with Hayes-Cousins. Like Marc Gasol-Zach Randolph, or Divac-Webber. If they can do that, then I think he can play even more minutes than anticipated. I don't know if Westphal has that in his playbook though.

How would you have felt about David West, if he had the same contract here as he has in Indiana?

I don't think Hayes/Cousins could measure up to the Divac-Webber or Gasol/Randolph in that capacity. Cousins looked good last year when the offense ran through him on the high post. Hayes has some nice passing skills, but he doesn't have the respect on offense to create much space. The other guys forced defenders to collapse on them, even beyond the paint which creates passing lanes. Nobody really cares about defending Hayes most of the time since he isn't good offensively. He has a high shooting percent due to put backs or under the basket points, but at a very low pace. I mean 50% is nice, but when you average 5 shots a game it doesnt mean much. If you run the offense through any player on a consistant basis, they have to have the ability to score if the play breaks down in that manner and Hayes doesn't have it.

As for JT, I'd explore trade options for him imo. Even in the first preseason game, he looked as confused and disjointed as ever. There is no excuse for that as a player entering his fourth year. I really have no faith in him to provide consistancy at any point. He'll have good stretches, but too many face palming moments. Since his rookie contract is coming up, you start looking toward the future. Thats why I like your idea of getting Humprhies while his asking price is lower than normal. Get him locked up for a few years, lets you move a guy like JT and give you some stability for the next few seasons along with Hayes/Cousins.

[Gunshot]

Petrie should amnesty Garcia and dump JT......then run and beg Dalambert to sign a contract
otherwise this team is in trouble IMO

[nuraman00]

Petrie should amnesty Garcia and dump JT......then run and beg Dalambert to sign a contract
otherwise this team is in trouble IMO

The amnesty deadline has passed. It was on Friday the 16th.

Regardless, they can still just use cap space to sign a FA, and then amnesty someone next year. Or dump someone.

Humphries is rumored to be looking for a 1 year deal now (and he would get a bigger contract next offseason). Why can't the Kings get in on that instead of the Nets? That's extremely low-risk. Even if you don't think he is that good, I don't think many would have a problem with a 1 year deal.

Or Dalembert is still out there too.