Post by malice on May 1, 2014 10:37:38 GMT
Well... here it is. Just a note to start with: I did offer this to a number of GMs - none of whom either wanted to do it, or bothered to reply. Shorty was going to do it - but then got swamped in real life, so I stepped in. Stuff happens, but if you ARE interested in doing the next one, drop me a PM and it's a possibility (no guarantees!).
The individual members involved in this were the two finalists from last season (shorty/getbeard), Flip, saric9, tyfreak and HyperYellow (randomly chosen participants).
Enough of me rambling on, to the questions!
1. Start with the obvious: did the best team in the league win the last championship?
Magic: I'm going to say yes. There wasn't a clear cut "best" team last season, but there were a handful of teams that were obviously a cut above the rest. Our record shows that we won 51 games, and that doesn't hold up to teams like the Pacers, Wolves, or the Cavs, but on paper we were every bit as good as them; we just needed to stay healthy and to find the right DC for everyone to play well together. Injuries for the Pacers and the Wolves took away what could have been some potentially even better matchups, but we beat very good (and healthy) teams in the Cavaliers and the Lakers so I would consider us the best team in the league.
76ers: Not in this league a long time but I'd say Magic are a top 5 team in the league. And when your team is in top 5 you have great chance of winning the title. With that being said maybe not the best team but elite team for sure.
Rockets: To be honest, the two best teams had injuries that definitely hurt their chances of even getting to the Finals. With that said, I think the better of the two conference winners won the championship and it was well-deserved. The Magic have gone through a lot of shit in the past seasons, especially in the 2005 Finals when they were faced with a big injury. Again, congrats to Shorty.
Raptors: Yes, I believe the best team in the league won. It may be a different story if injuries don't occur, because you could make a case for Wolves withouth Brandon Roy, or even the Pacers who exceeded expectations but unfortunately MVP Tony Parker got injured. Magic are a very solid built team with perhaps the best wings in the NBA. Shawn Marion, Ron Artest, Tracy McGrady. That's a damn good pairing. Steve Francis is a damn good PG who can score at will, or play unselfishly. They also have perhaps the most underrated big in the league in Vladimir Stepania. He won't give you 30 points a game but he brings a legitimate post defender who fit the team like a glove.
Lakers: Definitely. The Magic were stacked this year. If you have T Mac, Artest, Francis, Marion, and the legendary Step in your starting lineup, your bound to win a ton of games. Shorty found the right DC and his boys got hot at the right time and did their thing.
Blazers: I never really understood the logic of this question. Of course the best team won. That is why they won. They may not have the best players at every position, but they certainly aren't a team of hacks. Having a GM that is prepared to continually find a way to make his team better helps too, but then again, isn't he part of the team.
(editorial: Consensus is that the best team won...)
2. A look at the past: of the recent retirings, were there any that surprised you?
Magic: Definitely Tim Duncan. IRL Duncan is still playing, and playing well, so that puzzled me a little. I guess Duncan didn't want to deal with being traded or something. Also usually players wait until their contracts expire before they call it quits. It made sense for Duncan, tho it was a little early for him to retire, and it didn't make sense for Ben Wallace who played well last season, and who still had a year left. Aside from that, it was the usual retiree fair.
76ers: I was mostly surprised with Duncan retiring as he just resigned and then the next day he announced his retirement. Also a bit surprised with Big Ben and Mr. Big Shot retiring but FBB sometimes does weird things.
Rockets: The retirings of Tim Duncan and Big Ben were very surprising. They were both still playing at a high level. Other than those two, I think I personally would have loved to see Jason Williams play another year or two.
Raptors: Definitely. Tim Duncan was surprising as he is only 33. It is very rare for stars to go out early this early in their careers, especially set up on a team that is bound to have success. Money isn't everything, but turning down millions along with a good chance at rings is a little surprising for someone still playing at an excellent level.
Lakers: TIM DUNCAN. What a heartbreak for ROY and hit for the league in general. The Big Fundamental definitely had more to give but couldn't get over a tough loss in the WCF to the Lakers, and decided to not comeback. Weird that him in Ray Ray are both already out of the league.
Blazers: It's always a shame to see a player go out when he still has so much to offer. I point to Ben Wallace and Tim Duncan in particular this year. I mean we all get on the case of die-hards like Glenn Robinson and Michael Finley to hang up their boots, so it's finding that balance that's the key. From a personal stand-point, the loss of Chris Webber a few years ago to retirement really put our long term plan in a spin.
(Most people surprised to see Father Time catch up with Timmy earlier than in real life)
3. Towards the future: Free Agency was a little bleak after the bumper crops we've had in recent times... but the draft was a boom year. Are there any particular free agents or rookies you'll be looking at to see how they do this season?
Magic: I'll be keeping tabs on Paul George first and foremost. Also I'll keep track of the influx of new PGs like Jrue Holiday and others. Aside from that, I'm curious to see how Rudy Gay fares on the Rockets and if he can get better than last season to justify that contract. Rondo is someone else who just resigned with the Hawks, and it'll be curious to see how well he can play to try and lead the rising Hawks.
76ers: I'll be mostly looking at Larry Sanders off course - he is on my team. I could choose one of the PGs left at #10 but decided to take a risk with Larry. So hopefully he can become good starter or at least good backup at C and PF. IMO there are top 3 players from this year's draft are Wall, George, Holiday. Will be looking to see how they play their first season.
Rockets: I want to see how my rookies do this season. I'll definitely be using a lot of the + attributes and camps on them this season. FA is really crappy, so I don't see any FAs that will be a difference maker.
Raptors: There are some draftees such as Paul George or John Wall who have potential to become franchise changing players, but we will focus on our draftee Al-Farouq Aminu. Aminu is a very balanced forward who will be able to learn from Kobe, Williams, Thornton and Dudley. It'll be very interesting to track his progress.
Lakers: Obviously lots of guys in the draft and less in free agency, but I think some of the most interesting to watch are all on one team currently. John Wall, Lance Stephenson, and Rudy Gay. Though im assuming ROY will be using an RFA tag, this sweet young big 3 will be short lived. Regardless, Wall + Stephenson will be interesting to follow in how they grow together, actually very similar to when ROY grabbed Roy and Gay in the same draft. As for Gay, he is a very solid player who has yet to take the leaps for the Wolves that Roy had, but will have to pick up his game a notch to earn his big contract, and to help make up for the scoring loss from losing Duncan.
Blazers: It's always interesting to see high profile free agents trying to fit into new teams. This year, I think Jermaine O'Neal heading to Toronto and Rudy Gay to Houston are the intriguing ones for me. I don't think Gay has quite fulfilled his potential, but on the struggling Rockets side he might just get his chance to shine. O'Neal however, will leave a huge gap up front in Cleveland.
(lots to watch in this coming season for new faces on new teams!)
4. A question about your team - when might you be in contention, and what needs to happen for that to occur?
Magic: Coming off a championship year, we'll probably have at least 4 of our starting 5 back, and in order for us to contend again, we need our veterans to not be bums in the offseason, and to maintain shape. Tracy McGrady had a poor TC last offseason, and we hope to see him improve some of the areas that he has dropped in. If everyone else would stay the same, that would be just fine with me.
76ers: I believe my team still needs a year or two to come to the playoffs. I have a nice young core with Curry and Brook Lopez. As it looks at the moment my starters this year will be C: Lopez; PF: Sanders; SF: Odom; SG: Afflalo; PG: Curry with Ginobilli, Brown and Douglas having larger roles of the bench. Not really sure I can do much with this team but will try to make a few moves in order to improve. I think my weakest positions are SG and PF but this can (hopefully) change after TC. Also I'll have around 13M cap next year so hopefully I can sign someone next year. I'll say I put much more faith on the future seasons then on current one.
Rockets: I am disappointed in having to have gone the rebuilding route, but I was not active at all last season and my team declined after having a spectacular year that eventually lead to a second championship. Now, I have freedom to take on hefty contracts, I have allowed myself to have two picks for the next two seasons. If I see we aren't going anywhere, I might have to tank again since I have my pick to work with. I hope to be in contention by next season or the season after that. If I have to keep tanking, then obviously this rebuilding phase is a failure.
Raptors: We think we have a chance at competing this season. Oden - JO - Kobe is a strong talented lineup. We have some holes, and could add more depth. We hope to add some veterans through Free Agency.
Lakers: I think we made a pretty big statement last year, don't think many expected me to cruise through the playoff the way I did. The Magic turned out to be too much but my team is incredibly young, and we lost nothing. To take the next step we need to acquire an elite big to match up with some of the other around the league. Biedrins-Bass is a solid starting combo for a contender considering the system I run, but a solid upgrade at one or both of these spots would definitely give me that extra push.
Blazers: We'd like to think we're in contention every season. Realistically though, we'll always put together a strong defensive unit, but also always been that one scorer short of a dominant offense. We'd also like to see a TC where CP3 finds direction. It's great that he plays at both ends of the court, but seeing him specialise a bit more in either outside or inside scoring is what we've been waiting for.
(Split here: some teams think they're a season or so away - some ready to get back into the mix next season... who'll be right?)
5. We have quite a few new GMs. Any advice for them?
Magic: Some general advice: Respond to trade talks sooner rather than later... ask questions if necessary...be active... be patient, don't rush into deals that you might regret later...have fun?
76ers: I am one of them so I don't really have any advice for newbies. Maybe only don't over-think and or rush trades. I always do one or the other which turns out as a bad thing. Oh and be active!
Rockets: Being a small forum with only 29 of us, we need activity. Please participate in any live sims we have, if you can. Always engage in conversation because you get rewarded for them. Also, make moves to better your team. We've had GMs in the past that didn't make moves and have gone nowhere with their franchise.
Raptors: Just be active, and willing to listen to trade offers. Think longterm how it affects your team. Don't overthink deals either.
Lakers: If you dont know, ask! There are lots of quality GM's, who may not have all the answers, but are more than willing to help. I've been in only a few leagues before, and this is the only league I've been in that has lasted an extended period of times, and still is moving strong. Myself, shorty, malice, Rookie,itnas.. just naming a few people who have been in the league awhile now and there are plenty more, and of course the Commishes Bundy and Flip, are all more than willing to answer any questions you have that'll help you pick up the game quicker or understand it better. No question is dumb, we've all asked em.
Blazers: Just be aware that this isn't a league full of players with ridiculous ratings. The season league leading scorer had under 30ppg and the leading rebounder less than 12rpg. Finding role players becomes more important because they can have an impact in the right DC. Free agency becomes more important too, because it's not just rookies that can make a difference to your team.
(Activity's key. Be active, talk/communicate.)
6. Pick the ECF/WCF participants for this coming season, then the Finalists... and the overall champion.
Magic: I'm gonna be biased and say Magic - Pacers in the ECF. Wolves - Lakers. Magic - Wolves, and Magic wins in 7. Now, a lot of things need to happen for us to do that, but I figure we have a decent shot at that.
76ers: I am going with Chicago over Magic in the Eastern Conference and Wolves over Lakers (not really sure about Lakers though). And I think Bulls will take it all the way next year. They are just stacked with superstars...
Rockets: WCF: Wolves/Jazz, ECF: Pacers/Cavs
Wolves/Pacers - Depending on health, the winner wins in 7 games
Raptors: I'll say Cavs - Bulls and Wolves - Spurs. Cavs - Wolves in the finals with Kings James winning his first ring.
Lakers:
ECF: Indiana at Magic
WCF: Lakers at Wolves
Champ: Lakers over Magic in 7. Redemption!
Blazers:
ECF: Magic vs Pacers
WCF: Timberwolves vs Blazers
F: Timberwolves vs Magic
(Looks like the consensus is that there's no consensus on who wins this - but quite a few have the Pacers as bridesmaids again in some form, shape or fashion!)
7. If you could have your choice of any other team, which would you choose (and why)?
Magic: I wouldn't mind taking over a young team with a star player or two and seeing what I can do with building from the ground up. I've literally never tanked before, and while I haven't needed to in the past, it would be fun to do it someday. The Knicks and Celtics are two teams I wouldn't mind taking over to have fun with KLove and Tyreke Evans. The Sonics are another team with the Bogut - Durant young core that I'd love to have a chance to work with.
76ers: I'd pick between Blazers, Sonics and Knicks. The Blazers... I love them in real life and they don't seem too bad in this league too. Paul and Chandler would be nice to have on my team. Seattle has Durant and Bogut - the only problem there is Baron with his ugly contract. Love and Batum are the main reason for the Knicks. 1st choice would the Knickerbockers though.
Rockets: I don't want to choose another team because I like to stick to one team, no matter what. Even if I quit, I would come back and request to have Houston back.
Raptors: I'd have to go with the Wolves. They are very well built with talent and depth all around that will only grow and continue to improve. It sucks losing Star big Tim Duncan, but it gives Marc Gasol an oppurtunity to become a star big.
Lakers: Tough call between Sonics and Rockets. Sonics because of KD and they've underachieved IMO the last few seasons but they have the resources to make things happen. Rockets because, as I've already expressed, I love the Wall and Stephenson combo. Add some scoring bigs and they'll kill it in the inside offense.
Blazers: It's not so much a team that I'd been keen to take over, but I'd like having Brandon Roy (Minnesota) or Kevin Durant (Seattle) to build around. Actually, just looking a little closer at the Minny roster gets me pretty green with envy.
(The Knicks, Minnesota - teams other GMs wouldn't mind owning)
8. BIG issue in the *real world NBA* at the moment is the Donald Sterling issue. Now understanding that everyone agrees that what he said was reprehensible, what are your thoughts on whether he should be forced to sell his team - given he was recorded in the privacy of his own home, without his knowledge (which is illegal in the state of California)?
Magic: The guy is a scum, and the woman is a gold-diggin' low-life hoe. I do think someone planted her there to make him sell the team, but with that said, I'm glad people are finally seeing Sterling for the POS that he is. Now, we've all said things before that when taken out of context sounds bad, but there's no excusing that. You can tell a real racist from someone who is just saying dumb things, and Sterling falls into the former. Based on this story, and other smaller stories I've read about, I'm glad he lost his team. There's no room in the NBA ownership for people who's minds are stuck in the 1800s.
76ers: Don't really know what to think about the issue of privacy. It's a fact the tapes are illegal. When media comes into play no one thinks about legal issues. Now when everyone heard the tapes - no one wants to be associated with Sterling not the league, not LAC, not sponsors - actually nobody - even though everyone knew he was racist for quite some time (problems with Baron Davis, his employees. I believe TMZ will write Sterling a big fat 7+ figure check in the end.
Rockets: I don't think it really matters if it was in public or private. Like a lot of people have said, there is no room for racism in the league and in our society. Now that the NBA has taken matters into their own hands - since Sterling's actions embarrassed the NBA - he should be forced to sell his team.
Raptors: I think it isn't fair to Sterling to force him to sell the team and have no association within the NBA forever. In no way am I condoning his comments, but it was in the privacy of his own home. Unless actions followed his words, I do not think the NBA has any right to ban him from the NBA. He is a well known racist, and his bigot views aren't helping his case but it was in the privacy of his own house. I'm sure there would be more well known racism in the NBA if nothing was kept private. Hell even Shaq has uttered multiple racist comments but did you see anything happen to him? (Before anyone calls me a racist, I am not. I just believe in privacy.
Lakers: Absolutely. There is no place for a person like him in society in general, especially in the culture of the NBA which has such an incredible size of minorities in its workforce.
Also: not sure if its true, but apparently he knew he was being recorded. She had asked him previously if she could record their conversations because she was writing a book or something like that, just some food-for-thought on that. What he said is horrible regardless, but if its true that he said that while knowing that he may or may not be mic'd up, he's not only an idiot racist but he is also, just in idiot in general.
Blazers: As bigoted and racist as he is, I don't think forcing him to sell the team is going to change that. And that's what we really want isn't it? Change? If you can convince me that selling his team makes him change, I'm all for it, but it's not going to change how anybody feels about him, or how he feels about minority groups.
(mixed feelings about this too... feel free to discuss in the comments!)
Magic: Nothing. I'm not saying that to be lazy, but I made the tough decision to stay pat with my roster, and not to move anyone. I had the opportunity to move Tmac, Marion, Francis, and Artest, and while it would have looked fine on the surface if I did that, I had faith in the personnel I had and it paid off. I've had the chance to trade Tmac for years now (including for Kobe Bryant in the past), but I've hung onto him for this long as well, and we finally got a ring together. I was happy with my move to get Vlad Stephania as well. He was the perfect player for the team we had, and even tho basenoc wasn't using him on the Kings, he made sure to get his money's worth for Stephania. The min bench pieces that I have acquired along with the maneuvering to stay a hair under the HC all went as I hoped. So I can't say I regret anything.
Lakers: Upgraded at big man. I have a pretty deep roster and a solid starting 5, but I wish i could have found a deal where could have packaged some of my commodities for a stud in the post. My team lacked a real presence in the post, and I think if I had acquired one I may have beaten the Magic. Our team were set up very similarly tbh, with similar weaknesses. He was able to land Step, which turned out to be huge, and kind of what made the difference at the end.
And there you have it, this season's Off Season Round Table report! All participants may claim their +2...
Now, the +3 award for "best response". Normally that would be me. And if I am involved (I am), it's GMA Pres... but shorty's involved. So going to turn it over to another GM who's pretty active. itnas123 - would you mind picking the best responder to the Q&A (the GM chosen can have an extra +1).
The individual members involved in this were the two finalists from last season (shorty/getbeard), Flip, saric9, tyfreak and HyperYellow (randomly chosen participants).
Enough of me rambling on, to the questions!
1. Start with the obvious: did the best team in the league win the last championship?
Magic: I'm going to say yes. There wasn't a clear cut "best" team last season, but there were a handful of teams that were obviously a cut above the rest. Our record shows that we won 51 games, and that doesn't hold up to teams like the Pacers, Wolves, or the Cavs, but on paper we were every bit as good as them; we just needed to stay healthy and to find the right DC for everyone to play well together. Injuries for the Pacers and the Wolves took away what could have been some potentially even better matchups, but we beat very good (and healthy) teams in the Cavaliers and the Lakers so I would consider us the best team in the league.
76ers: Not in this league a long time but I'd say Magic are a top 5 team in the league. And when your team is in top 5 you have great chance of winning the title. With that being said maybe not the best team but elite team for sure.
Rockets: To be honest, the two best teams had injuries that definitely hurt their chances of even getting to the Finals. With that said, I think the better of the two conference winners won the championship and it was well-deserved. The Magic have gone through a lot of shit in the past seasons, especially in the 2005 Finals when they were faced with a big injury. Again, congrats to Shorty.
Raptors: Yes, I believe the best team in the league won. It may be a different story if injuries don't occur, because you could make a case for Wolves withouth Brandon Roy, or even the Pacers who exceeded expectations but unfortunately MVP Tony Parker got injured. Magic are a very solid built team with perhaps the best wings in the NBA. Shawn Marion, Ron Artest, Tracy McGrady. That's a damn good pairing. Steve Francis is a damn good PG who can score at will, or play unselfishly. They also have perhaps the most underrated big in the league in Vladimir Stepania. He won't give you 30 points a game but he brings a legitimate post defender who fit the team like a glove.
Lakers: Definitely. The Magic were stacked this year. If you have T Mac, Artest, Francis, Marion, and the legendary Step in your starting lineup, your bound to win a ton of games. Shorty found the right DC and his boys got hot at the right time and did their thing.
Blazers: I never really understood the logic of this question. Of course the best team won. That is why they won. They may not have the best players at every position, but they certainly aren't a team of hacks. Having a GM that is prepared to continually find a way to make his team better helps too, but then again, isn't he part of the team.
(editorial: Consensus is that the best team won...)
2. A look at the past: of the recent retirings, were there any that surprised you?
Magic: Definitely Tim Duncan. IRL Duncan is still playing, and playing well, so that puzzled me a little. I guess Duncan didn't want to deal with being traded or something. Also usually players wait until their contracts expire before they call it quits. It made sense for Duncan, tho it was a little early for him to retire, and it didn't make sense for Ben Wallace who played well last season, and who still had a year left. Aside from that, it was the usual retiree fair.
76ers: I was mostly surprised with Duncan retiring as he just resigned and then the next day he announced his retirement. Also a bit surprised with Big Ben and Mr. Big Shot retiring but FBB sometimes does weird things.
Rockets: The retirings of Tim Duncan and Big Ben were very surprising. They were both still playing at a high level. Other than those two, I think I personally would have loved to see Jason Williams play another year or two.
Raptors: Definitely. Tim Duncan was surprising as he is only 33. It is very rare for stars to go out early this early in their careers, especially set up on a team that is bound to have success. Money isn't everything, but turning down millions along with a good chance at rings is a little surprising for someone still playing at an excellent level.
Lakers: TIM DUNCAN. What a heartbreak for ROY and hit for the league in general. The Big Fundamental definitely had more to give but couldn't get over a tough loss in the WCF to the Lakers, and decided to not comeback. Weird that him in Ray Ray are both already out of the league.
Blazers: It's always a shame to see a player go out when he still has so much to offer. I point to Ben Wallace and Tim Duncan in particular this year. I mean we all get on the case of die-hards like Glenn Robinson and Michael Finley to hang up their boots, so it's finding that balance that's the key. From a personal stand-point, the loss of Chris Webber a few years ago to retirement really put our long term plan in a spin.
(Most people surprised to see Father Time catch up with Timmy earlier than in real life)
3. Towards the future: Free Agency was a little bleak after the bumper crops we've had in recent times... but the draft was a boom year. Are there any particular free agents or rookies you'll be looking at to see how they do this season?
Magic: I'll be keeping tabs on Paul George first and foremost. Also I'll keep track of the influx of new PGs like Jrue Holiday and others. Aside from that, I'm curious to see how Rudy Gay fares on the Rockets and if he can get better than last season to justify that contract. Rondo is someone else who just resigned with the Hawks, and it'll be curious to see how well he can play to try and lead the rising Hawks.
76ers: I'll be mostly looking at Larry Sanders off course - he is on my team. I could choose one of the PGs left at #10 but decided to take a risk with Larry. So hopefully he can become good starter or at least good backup at C and PF. IMO there are top 3 players from this year's draft are Wall, George, Holiday. Will be looking to see how they play their first season.
Rockets: I want to see how my rookies do this season. I'll definitely be using a lot of the + attributes and camps on them this season. FA is really crappy, so I don't see any FAs that will be a difference maker.
Raptors: There are some draftees such as Paul George or John Wall who have potential to become franchise changing players, but we will focus on our draftee Al-Farouq Aminu. Aminu is a very balanced forward who will be able to learn from Kobe, Williams, Thornton and Dudley. It'll be very interesting to track his progress.
Lakers: Obviously lots of guys in the draft and less in free agency, but I think some of the most interesting to watch are all on one team currently. John Wall, Lance Stephenson, and Rudy Gay. Though im assuming ROY will be using an RFA tag, this sweet young big 3 will be short lived. Regardless, Wall + Stephenson will be interesting to follow in how they grow together, actually very similar to when ROY grabbed Roy and Gay in the same draft. As for Gay, he is a very solid player who has yet to take the leaps for the Wolves that Roy had, but will have to pick up his game a notch to earn his big contract, and to help make up for the scoring loss from losing Duncan.
Blazers: It's always interesting to see high profile free agents trying to fit into new teams. This year, I think Jermaine O'Neal heading to Toronto and Rudy Gay to Houston are the intriguing ones for me. I don't think Gay has quite fulfilled his potential, but on the struggling Rockets side he might just get his chance to shine. O'Neal however, will leave a huge gap up front in Cleveland.
(lots to watch in this coming season for new faces on new teams!)
4. A question about your team - when might you be in contention, and what needs to happen for that to occur?
Magic: Coming off a championship year, we'll probably have at least 4 of our starting 5 back, and in order for us to contend again, we need our veterans to not be bums in the offseason, and to maintain shape. Tracy McGrady had a poor TC last offseason, and we hope to see him improve some of the areas that he has dropped in. If everyone else would stay the same, that would be just fine with me.
76ers: I believe my team still needs a year or two to come to the playoffs. I have a nice young core with Curry and Brook Lopez. As it looks at the moment my starters this year will be C: Lopez; PF: Sanders; SF: Odom; SG: Afflalo; PG: Curry with Ginobilli, Brown and Douglas having larger roles of the bench. Not really sure I can do much with this team but will try to make a few moves in order to improve. I think my weakest positions are SG and PF but this can (hopefully) change after TC. Also I'll have around 13M cap next year so hopefully I can sign someone next year. I'll say I put much more faith on the future seasons then on current one.
Rockets: I am disappointed in having to have gone the rebuilding route, but I was not active at all last season and my team declined after having a spectacular year that eventually lead to a second championship. Now, I have freedom to take on hefty contracts, I have allowed myself to have two picks for the next two seasons. If I see we aren't going anywhere, I might have to tank again since I have my pick to work with. I hope to be in contention by next season or the season after that. If I have to keep tanking, then obviously this rebuilding phase is a failure.
Raptors: We think we have a chance at competing this season. Oden - JO - Kobe is a strong talented lineup. We have some holes, and could add more depth. We hope to add some veterans through Free Agency.
Lakers: I think we made a pretty big statement last year, don't think many expected me to cruise through the playoff the way I did. The Magic turned out to be too much but my team is incredibly young, and we lost nothing. To take the next step we need to acquire an elite big to match up with some of the other around the league. Biedrins-Bass is a solid starting combo for a contender considering the system I run, but a solid upgrade at one or both of these spots would definitely give me that extra push.
Blazers: We'd like to think we're in contention every season. Realistically though, we'll always put together a strong defensive unit, but also always been that one scorer short of a dominant offense. We'd also like to see a TC where CP3 finds direction. It's great that he plays at both ends of the court, but seeing him specialise a bit more in either outside or inside scoring is what we've been waiting for.
(Split here: some teams think they're a season or so away - some ready to get back into the mix next season... who'll be right?)
5. We have quite a few new GMs. Any advice for them?
Magic: Some general advice: Respond to trade talks sooner rather than later... ask questions if necessary...be active... be patient, don't rush into deals that you might regret later...have fun?
76ers: I am one of them so I don't really have any advice for newbies. Maybe only don't over-think and or rush trades. I always do one or the other which turns out as a bad thing. Oh and be active!
Rockets: Being a small forum with only 29 of us, we need activity. Please participate in any live sims we have, if you can. Always engage in conversation because you get rewarded for them. Also, make moves to better your team. We've had GMs in the past that didn't make moves and have gone nowhere with their franchise.
Raptors: Just be active, and willing to listen to trade offers. Think longterm how it affects your team. Don't overthink deals either.
Lakers: If you dont know, ask! There are lots of quality GM's, who may not have all the answers, but are more than willing to help. I've been in only a few leagues before, and this is the only league I've been in that has lasted an extended period of times, and still is moving strong. Myself, shorty, malice, Rookie,itnas.. just naming a few people who have been in the league awhile now and there are plenty more, and of course the Commishes Bundy and Flip, are all more than willing to answer any questions you have that'll help you pick up the game quicker or understand it better. No question is dumb, we've all asked em.
Blazers: Just be aware that this isn't a league full of players with ridiculous ratings. The season league leading scorer had under 30ppg and the leading rebounder less than 12rpg. Finding role players becomes more important because they can have an impact in the right DC. Free agency becomes more important too, because it's not just rookies that can make a difference to your team.
(Activity's key. Be active, talk/communicate.)
6. Pick the ECF/WCF participants for this coming season, then the Finalists... and the overall champion.
Magic: I'm gonna be biased and say Magic - Pacers in the ECF. Wolves - Lakers. Magic - Wolves, and Magic wins in 7. Now, a lot of things need to happen for us to do that, but I figure we have a decent shot at that.
76ers: I am going with Chicago over Magic in the Eastern Conference and Wolves over Lakers (not really sure about Lakers though). And I think Bulls will take it all the way next year. They are just stacked with superstars...
Rockets: WCF: Wolves/Jazz, ECF: Pacers/Cavs
Wolves/Pacers - Depending on health, the winner wins in 7 games
Raptors: I'll say Cavs - Bulls and Wolves - Spurs. Cavs - Wolves in the finals with Kings James winning his first ring.
Lakers:
ECF: Indiana at Magic
WCF: Lakers at Wolves
Champ: Lakers over Magic in 7. Redemption!
Blazers:
ECF: Magic vs Pacers
WCF: Timberwolves vs Blazers
F: Timberwolves vs Magic
(Looks like the consensus is that there's no consensus on who wins this - but quite a few have the Pacers as bridesmaids again in some form, shape or fashion!)
7. If you could have your choice of any other team, which would you choose (and why)?
Magic: I wouldn't mind taking over a young team with a star player or two and seeing what I can do with building from the ground up. I've literally never tanked before, and while I haven't needed to in the past, it would be fun to do it someday. The Knicks and Celtics are two teams I wouldn't mind taking over to have fun with KLove and Tyreke Evans. The Sonics are another team with the Bogut - Durant young core that I'd love to have a chance to work with.
76ers: I'd pick between Blazers, Sonics and Knicks. The Blazers... I love them in real life and they don't seem too bad in this league too. Paul and Chandler would be nice to have on my team. Seattle has Durant and Bogut - the only problem there is Baron with his ugly contract. Love and Batum are the main reason for the Knicks. 1st choice would the Knickerbockers though.
Rockets: I don't want to choose another team because I like to stick to one team, no matter what. Even if I quit, I would come back and request to have Houston back.
Raptors: I'd have to go with the Wolves. They are very well built with talent and depth all around that will only grow and continue to improve. It sucks losing Star big Tim Duncan, but it gives Marc Gasol an oppurtunity to become a star big.
Lakers: Tough call between Sonics and Rockets. Sonics because of KD and they've underachieved IMO the last few seasons but they have the resources to make things happen. Rockets because, as I've already expressed, I love the Wall and Stephenson combo. Add some scoring bigs and they'll kill it in the inside offense.
Blazers: It's not so much a team that I'd been keen to take over, but I'd like having Brandon Roy (Minnesota) or Kevin Durant (Seattle) to build around. Actually, just looking a little closer at the Minny roster gets me pretty green with envy.
(The Knicks, Minnesota - teams other GMs wouldn't mind owning)
8. BIG issue in the *real world NBA* at the moment is the Donald Sterling issue. Now understanding that everyone agrees that what he said was reprehensible, what are your thoughts on whether he should be forced to sell his team - given he was recorded in the privacy of his own home, without his knowledge (which is illegal in the state of California)?
Magic: The guy is a scum, and the woman is a gold-diggin' low-life hoe. I do think someone planted her there to make him sell the team, but with that said, I'm glad people are finally seeing Sterling for the POS that he is. Now, we've all said things before that when taken out of context sounds bad, but there's no excusing that. You can tell a real racist from someone who is just saying dumb things, and Sterling falls into the former. Based on this story, and other smaller stories I've read about, I'm glad he lost his team. There's no room in the NBA ownership for people who's minds are stuck in the 1800s.
76ers: Don't really know what to think about the issue of privacy. It's a fact the tapes are illegal. When media comes into play no one thinks about legal issues. Now when everyone heard the tapes - no one wants to be associated with Sterling not the league, not LAC, not sponsors - actually nobody - even though everyone knew he was racist for quite some time (problems with Baron Davis, his employees. I believe TMZ will write Sterling a big fat 7+ figure check in the end.
Rockets: I don't think it really matters if it was in public or private. Like a lot of people have said, there is no room for racism in the league and in our society. Now that the NBA has taken matters into their own hands - since Sterling's actions embarrassed the NBA - he should be forced to sell his team.
Raptors: I think it isn't fair to Sterling to force him to sell the team and have no association within the NBA forever. In no way am I condoning his comments, but it was in the privacy of his own home. Unless actions followed his words, I do not think the NBA has any right to ban him from the NBA. He is a well known racist, and his bigot views aren't helping his case but it was in the privacy of his own house. I'm sure there would be more well known racism in the NBA if nothing was kept private. Hell even Shaq has uttered multiple racist comments but did you see anything happen to him? (Before anyone calls me a racist, I am not. I just believe in privacy.
Lakers: Absolutely. There is no place for a person like him in society in general, especially in the culture of the NBA which has such an incredible size of minorities in its workforce.
Also: not sure if its true, but apparently he knew he was being recorded. She had asked him previously if she could record their conversations because she was writing a book or something like that, just some food-for-thought on that. What he said is horrible regardless, but if its true that he said that while knowing that he may or may not be mic'd up, he's not only an idiot racist but he is also, just in idiot in general.
Blazers: As bigoted and racist as he is, I don't think forcing him to sell the team is going to change that. And that's what we really want isn't it? Change? If you can convince me that selling his team makes him change, I'm all for it, but it's not going to change how anybody feels about him, or how he feels about minority groups.
(mixed feelings about this too... feel free to discuss in the comments!)
Bonus question for the Finalists: If you could have a *do-over*, what single thing would you do differently (or UNDO) from last season?
Lakers: Upgraded at big man. I have a pretty deep roster and a solid starting 5, but I wish i could have found a deal where could have packaged some of my commodities for a stud in the post. My team lacked a real presence in the post, and I think if I had acquired one I may have beaten the Magic. Our team were set up very similarly tbh, with similar weaknesses. He was able to land Step, which turned out to be huge, and kind of what made the difference at the end.
And there you have it, this season's Off Season Round Table report! All participants may claim their +2...
Now, the +3 award for "best response". Normally that would be me. And if I am involved (I am), it's GMA Pres... but shorty's involved. So going to turn it over to another GM who's pretty active. itnas123 - would you mind picking the best responder to the Q&A (the GM chosen can have an extra +1).
