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joec32033
Posts: 30632
Alba Posts: 37
Joined: 2/3/2004
Member: #583
USA
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12:49
Moderator: Hi all. We'll get going at around 1 p.m.
1:00
We can get this thing started, Fixers, I'm sure you have plenty of questions to fire at me. Let's hope Gracie stays asleep long enough for me to get through em all. OK Moderator, first question....
1:00
[Comment From Nick]
If Danilo Gallinari turns out to be a bust, or this back injury turns out to be serious, do you think it'll hurt Donnie Walsh's credibility next June, on draft night?? Remember, he said this is a pick we "HAVE TO get right."
1:02
AH-Great point you make with what Donnie said, but I wouldn't jump too far ahead with this. I think Gallinari will be a very good player. I am concerned with the injury mainly because I question why he wasn't in New York getting treated once he left the Italian team in August. But Donnie's credibility will be fine in the long run with this kid. He's got talent. We'll see it . . . eventually.
1:02
[Comment From David B.]
I know, the Knicks aren't releasing too much info about Danilo's condition, but in your opinion, how concerned should we be about his back?
1:03
AH-As I said above, the concern should be about why he didn't come in and get treatment sooner rather than later. Why is he getting a cortisone shot two weeks before camp opens just so he can be ready to play on the first day? My concern is will the back be enough of a detriment to keep him from being an effective player at the start? Preseason is critical for him to get minutes and experience. If he can't go 100 percent, then he'll start his rookie season already behind schedule. And there's no catching up once the season starts.
1:03
[Comment From Antoine]
Don't you think Zach Randolph, plus cash, and Mardy Collins for Darko Milicic and Javaris Crittenton is more than fair for both teams?? Collins' size and defense compliments O.J. Mayo, Kyle Lowry, and Mike Conley perfectly, while you can say the same thing for Crittenton and Nate and Jamal.
1:03
[Comment From Will (NYC)]
Any chance Donnie can work the Zach Randolph deal down to just Randolph and Mardy Collins for Darko and Crittenton? Still fair for the Grizzlies I think, but I’d love that deal for the Knicks. What would guess the chances of him getting traded before the season are at right now?
1:05
AH-That's one-sided Will, and, besides, the Grizz have enough guards. Why would they want to add one in Mardy Collins? I think the Grizz are satisfied in getting Randolph for Darko and Marko and maybe also getting Donnie to give up a draft pick. Donnie clearly wants more than Marko. So it's up to the Grizz at this point to come back with a counter. I think this might not happen before camp, but it's not dead. Yet.
1:05
[Comment From Big Wayne]
If Jamal Crawford has a breakout season this year under Mike D, do you think he'll opt out of his deal next summer?? Would it be a good thing or a bad thing if he did that??
1:08
AH-I think he will, Wayne and if I were his agent I'd advise him to. Jamal is nearing 30 so this may be his only time to cash in with free agency. I think if he has a breakout, all-star type year, he would have to opt out. Now, would Jamal agree to take around the same amount of money (which helps the Knicks payroll) in exchange for a long-term committment? That's what we have to see. It's a critical year for Jamal. He has to prove not only that he can consistently score and play defense, but he can be a leader, too.
1:08
[Comment From Keith (Section 310) Hagan]
Hey Alan, Your blog has been excellent over the summer... Really keeping us die-hards informed. My question for you is, do you think the Knicks allow Marbury to come to camp? Or do they finally release him before hand? How do you see this playing out?
1:08
[Comment From Will (NYC)]
Do you see any possible deal for Marbury out there? Any chance on Marbury and Curry for Shawn Marion, Mark Blount, and Marcus Banks?
1:08
[Comment From MAK]
Como esta Alan.... I read somewhere that Marbury is officially gone-zo (NBC sports, I think). Is this true?
1:12
AH-Three similar questions. We'll answer them together. Stephon is and will remain the hot button issue with the Knicks until something is decided. I can tell you that from what I know, nothing has been officially decided. There are strong feelings about how moving on without him would signal real change with the franchise's direction. But there are also concerns that Marbury, being in a contract year, may show up and have a great season. And the Knicks need all the talent they can get.
I'm on the side that believes change is more important right now than wins. I think everyone, including Stephon, benefits from change. Now Donnie would prefer to trade Marbury as an asset instead of cutting him, paying him a buyout amount and then seeing another team sign him for a pittance and have him play at an all-star level. Especially if it is for an Eastern Conference rival such as the Miami Heat, who desperately need help at the point.
Know this, however. If Stephon is there on Media Day, the stories won't be about change with the Knicks. It'll be about how Marbury is still there.
1:12
[Comment From Guest]
Alan, in your honest opinion what do you believe the % is that Houston makes this roster?
1:12
[Comment From Rob]
What are the chances Allan Houston makes the roster?
1:13
[Comment From Jermaine M.]
Allan Houston, I mean really? How many more times are we gonna go down this road. I loved '99 as much as the next guy. And if Allan didn't have the gait of a young 75 year old after hip and knee replacement the last time we saw him on court, I'd say more power two him. But at some point this franchise has to move on. And for that matter, so does Allan, regardless of what God told him (sorry God).
1:14
AH-I think his chances this season are much better than last season. He's far more prepared this season and would start camp on Day 1 instead of jumping in after the first week as he did last season. And Isiah never really bought into the idea, but I've heard Mike D'Antoni is very intrigued with the idea of having a veteran like Houston not only on the bench as a sharpshooter but in the locker room as a positive influence. It's worth a look at least. And if it doesn't work out, I believe Houston will remain in the organization in a front office type capacity.
1:14
[Comment From Adam L]
I don't really see how this team is much better or even all that different from the past few hours, with the key exception of coach and management. But the faithful have been saying all along the team has talent and 'should' be better than this. Certainly coaching or the lack thereof has been a detriment in recent memory. Do you think the shakeup at the top could have a real turnaround effect on these guys ala the Mets after Willie Randolph. As I see it, that is the only hope for improvement this yera, since the guys have stayed the same same, and if anything our talent has decreased a bit. By the way, you see those 50 Barkley quotes I posted yesterday? Hysterical no?
1:16
AH-Anything Barkley is usually hysterical.
As for the Knicks, I think the change in structure and direction -- having an actual purpose -- should be good enough to give you 10 more wins. Now that's not saying much when your team only won 23. This year can't be about winning. You have to try, of course, but that isn't the focus as much as it is weeding out the players who don't fit. This is a transition year, Fixers. I wouldn't expect miracles.
1:16
[Comment From tsamuel]
Hi Alan, love the blog, assuming the knicks decide to keep H20 (great team leader) something this team deperately needs..and Ewing Jr., which two guys do you see the Knicks buying out (since they will be over with 17 guys)....Jerome? Mardy? Marbury? Or do you find it interesting almost everyone is playing together right now except steph? Does it show his lack of team orientation and selfness..or is it just normal?
1:18
AH-I think Marbury is a prime candidate, but Jerome James might be the first one. Another name to consider is Malik Rose. He's in the final year of his contract and I think the team would rather give his roster spot to a younger player. I personally like Malik and he did all he could to keep that locker room together over the past few years. But I can see them wanting to use his spot for a younger player such as Ewing or Roberson.
1:18
[Comment From Jermaine M.]
Agree or disagree, and I can't really hate Zach as a player. but I also don't think there can be anyway he and Eddy can be on the same Roster come opening night. So having personally given up on Zach to Memphis (and not crying too much about it?) what are the chances of Eddy moving before opening night
1:19
AH-Agreed Jermaine. And I like Zach, too. But those two just don't mesh in the same frontcourt. I think everyone is aware of that. It only took Isiah a few months to realize it.
1:19
[Comment From Rico - Brooklyn, NY]
Alan - Give the current structure of the team how many wins do you predict this year.
1:19
[Comment From Rico - Brooklyn, NY]
Keep up the good work Alan
1:20
AH-Thanks Rico. I'm going with 35-37. The East is so much better and tougher now. There will be growing pains along the way.
1:20
[Comment From LJfor4]
how much of a role do you think chandler will play this season....he seems perfect for MD's system, how much will he come into play ?
1:21
AH-I think they expect big things from Wilson Chandler. I've been saying this since the end of last season, but I liken him to Shawn Marion. His range has to continue to improve and it will along with his confidence. He's versatile, can defend and is strong. Mike will know exactly how to get the most out of his skills.
1:21
[Comment From glymph]
Considering how poorly European players have demonstarted themselves to be in recent playofs - why all the love from the media on the Gallinari pick? If he turns out to be the next Vladimir Radmanovic - do you think the pick was a success?
1:22
AH-Gallinari comes highly regarded. I don't know how much "love" he's gotten, to be honest. He's been a Knick since June and he's only played one summer league game. He's a myth still at this point. No one is annointing him anything.
1:22
[Comment From RoboNate]
What, in your opinion, should be the starting five this coming October on day 1 of the regular season?
1:22
[Comment From Brian (NY)]
Your starting 5 opening night... your starting 5 25 games in?
1:24
AH-OK - opening night: Duhon, Crawford, Chandler, Jeffries and Curry
25 games in? Maybe the same, or maybe Lee instead of Jeffries, but I'm only thinking of shot-blocking.
1:24
[Comment From David B.]
If we make the playoffs (doubtful) or our draft picks falls between 10-15, does the pick go to Utah, or will they have our unprotected pick in 2010 no matter what?
1:25
AH-The pick only goes to Utah in 09 if the Knicks finish in the top 8 in the league standings. So...it should be safe. And they get the 10 pick regardless.
1:25
[Comment From Will]
Is it generally agreed upon that Darko and Marko would be a worse deal than if the Clippers deal was really for nothing (draft pick aside)? I think the upside of Darko backing up the two big spots is outweighed by Marko's 3 years. We may be able to get Zach's value back up to zero by keeping him, even if he's not a great fit.
1:26
AH-I agree, Will. You get two bodies and maybe Darko can help you some. Neither guy does anything to your rotation, really. I still would have preferred to dump the 48M for a second-rounder, just to clear the space. I know it's hard to do, but I might have given up that first rounder just to do it and hoped I could get one back later by trading another asset at another time.
1:26
[Comment From Brian (NY)]
So the buzz is now they wanna ink Lee to a long term deal, not trade him? What money do you think Lee is looking at, and does this team view him as a long term solution/starter?
1:26
[Comment From Justin]
Hey Alan, great job so far. What can you tell us about David Lee's game? Is his jumper improving like it should? Has he bulked up at all this off-season? Also, what are your thoughs on the potential of Wilson Chandler starting at SF?
1:26
[Comment From Justin]
How much will David Lee contribue this season? Does he fit into a D'Antoni offense? Is his shot improving? Does he seem to have bulked up at all?
1:29
AH-I haven't seen David play yet, so I can only go on what I hear from other players. He's shooting it well, but I've said he's always had a good shot, good form. But David's issue is confidence. When he gets nervous he tightens up his form and his palm gets flat on the ball.
Yes, I pay way too much attention to those little things.
I do believe they'd like to sign D-Lee to an extension, but they can't if they don't move Z-Bo. I think one will lead to the other. Just my opinion. He fits perfect with D'Antoni's system because he can rebound and outlet and he can run and finish on the break. David should flourish, but it might be off the bench still because shot-blocking is a need next to Curry.
1:29
[Comment From Woogie]
If the Knicks end up with a top 5 pick next June (I like our chances btw) who's your guy: Brandon Jennings, Ricky Rubio, or Hasheem Thabeet??
1:31
AH-I guess Jennings will be battle tested and has a ton of talent. He's more of a shoot-first PG but who's to say at this point what kind of NBA PG he will be. Rubio is a legend right now more than he is a blue chip prospect. He's got a lot of growing to do, but he does draw your attention. Thabeet could be the shot-blocker the Knicks need, but is he really a top 5 pick? We'll know more once the college season gets underway.
1:31
[Comment From Juan]
I hope they don't give up on Eddie.... Alan, can Wilson Chandler play the 2 guard or is he strictly a small forward? I like Jamal as a person but his game is strictly AND1 and considering he is 8 years into the league that's probably not going to change.
1:32
AH-Wilson isn't really a 2 because his ballhandling skills aren't strong enough and, quite frankly, he isn't comfortable outside the arc. He's more of a 3 right now, but what I like about him is he can defend the 2, so against big guards such as McGrady he can match up. I think Jamal knows he has to corral his game and mature as a player this year. We'll see.
1:32
[Comment From Todd]
Do you think that the front office will be more willing to level with people in terms of the rebuilding needed? One of the issues with the Knicks was that it was a constant flow of "this is the year!" Do you think there will be a change in tone from the organization?
1:32
[Comment From Todd]
And you do think Jeffries can play the 4, even in an up-tempo team?
1:34
AH-You're so dead on, Todd. I mean the team has to sell to the fans that they want to win, but the die hards have to understand, deep down, that this season can't have playoff expectations. You have to see how it comes together and see where you are at mid-season. Then go from there. I think the die-hards know that.
I think Jared is a 4 and should be a great help defender. But he can't be effective if Eddy isn't thinking on defense, because Eddy doesn't often think on defense.
1:34
[Comment From RoboNate]
I noticed in Jamal's blog that he didnt mention anything on Eddy Curry's shape, even though he did show up for the voluntary workouts. Any definitive information on that, and yes, I have seen Curry's oversized t-shirt video for Tim Grover's facility.
1:35
AH-You know players are always careful about that stuff. I think it's safe to say that if Eddy showed up chiseled and looking ripped, Jamal would say that. So....
1:35
[Comment From Justin]
What role do you see Mardy Collins having? He's, by far, the best perimeter defender on the team, but many question D'Antoni's commitment to that side of the court. Any thoughts on how much he could play next season and in what capacity?
1:36
AH-I don't know how Mardy fits now, to be quite honest. I have to see camp first, but I think Mardy has to be feeling some pressure, especially with Roberson in camp and Houston trying to make the team. Not a lot of spots left.
1:36
[Comment From Brian (NY)]
So since being introduced, everyone's been relatively quiet about the Duhon signing (perhaps because were still all trying to figure out the Marbury situation). I imagine his play will be a big part of camp... what have you been hearing about Duhon, NY players take on Duhon, and players and coaches around the league on Duhon... is he just a stop gag, or can he perhaps be more...
1:37
AH-Funny you say that Brian, because I just forgot to mention Duhon among new faces who are contending for minutes vs. Collins!!
I think Duhon has to prove he can score. We know he is a decent playmaker and he can defend. But if teams drop off him, can he stick it?
No disrespect to him, but I see Chris as a stopgap at the PG spot right now.
1:37
[Comment From Normalyute]
Hey Alan! great job Whats the point of having Houston, roberson, ewing? will the everybody on the team be in the rotation? everyone cant possibly get playing time what do you think?
1:39
AH-You're right, not everyone will get regular minutes. Houston might be among those who early on may not play much but his presence is something the coaching staff may want to have and let him go through the season and get more comfortable physically. Maybe by mid-year he'll be able to do more. Roberson is another who may not play a ton of minutes but may come in and give you shots when you need someone to hit from the outside. Ewing Jr is a wildcard, man. We'll have to see where he fits.
1:39
[Comment From michael]
how can people say that jamal will never change since he's been in the league so long? he's one of the few knicks that has improved every year as a knick under different coaches each year. that says a lot about a guy, no?
1:40
AH-Agreed, Michael. I think we'll see what Jamal is all about this season.
1:40
[Comment From italian stallion]
any chance randolph will come off the bench and lee/curry start
1:41
AH-Ugh..that would be tough to explain. And would kill his trade value, no?
1:41
[Comment From Justin]
Have you got a feeling for Walsh and D'Antoni's opinion on Mardy Collins? They didn't really talk about him in the Summerleague, but his jumpshot appears to have improved dramatically. Will he get time this season?
1:42
AH-I think I answered that above, Justin. I'm not sure where Mardy figures in. D'Antoni said some nice things about him in the summer. They love his defense and toughness. But we know his shot is substandard for the NBA. He'll have some competition for minutes this year.
1:42
[Comment From Will(LI)]
When do you see this team really getting better and have a chance to become a true contender again and get the garden rocking like it used to when Ewing was there?
1:43
AH-2010-11, when LeBron suits up.
1:43
[Comment From Good Stuff]
If the Knicks can't sign a Wade, LBJ, or Bosh in 2010, should they split their cap room on short deals for a few second or third tier guys (Camby, Joe Johnson, and Childress for example) or wait till 2011.
1:43
[Comment From Brian (NY)]
Quick yes or no question... next summer, do free agents lineup to take the midlevel from NY cause D'Antoni had made NY basetkball fun/relevant again, and because players like playing for him/his style? By the way, Im a huge fan of your blog... your about the only real die-hard Knicks writer out there that gives us something to look forward to daily.
1:44
AH-Thanks Brian. I think you may see more interest in the Knicks if they show something this season. Gotta clear the dark clouds first.
1:44
[Comment From Jermaine M.]
Okay, 550lb gorilla in the room. Jerome James, how so does management bite the bullet and pay him what he asks for to not play for the Knicks anymore (ya know, versus subsequent 3 years of not playing for the Knicks). Because I'm really pulling for Patrick Jr. to make this squad. In name alone he provides more than ole' boy Jerome ever has for this organization...
1:45
AH-Jerome has 12.8M left on his contract. They can work out something. There's really no place for him on this team, in this system.
1:45
[Comment From Mike]
Hey Alan! Fixer addict here, wanted to know your thoughts on Crawford being moved to PG, especially if Houston can play some SG?
1:45
AH-I wouldn't expect to see much of that at all, to be honest. Thanks for being a Fixer, Mike!
1:45
[Comment From Andrew]
When Nash played with the suns he was always playing with nagging injuries and being a leader i nthe locker room. Does D'Antoni view Houston like this?
1:46
AH-Not sure yet. We first have to see if Allan can keep pace and go from there. I wouldn't expect him to be a rotation guy right out of the gate. First he's got to make it.
1:47
[Comment From Adam]
Hey Alan, great job as usual. With 17 real players in camp (including houston and ewing (who I think was an absolute steal by Walsh), gut feeling, are marbury and James here by the start of the season? If one of them are, who are the two cut?
1:47
AH-I'm with you Adam. I think PJ was a steal and will prove to be one of his best moves. Gut feeling, yes, I think both of those players will be gone.
1:47
[Comment From itzallgud]
hey Alan, I found Crawford's comment on Duhon interesting. Between the lines, it sounds like Crawford would be ecstatic to finally have a steady true pg to play alongside. At the same time, digging at Marbury. Throw in Dantoni's offensive schemes and this fact that Crawford has never got to play alongside a true pg, I think we could defintely see Crawford on an all-star level this year. You agree?
1:48
AH-You read like I do, itz. :)
1:48
[Comment From Ron]
What will the Atlantic Division standings look like in 6 months??
1:49
AH-Geez....uh, the Knicks will be likely looking up at a lot of teams.
My guess: Boston, Philadelphia, Toronto, Nets, Knicks
1:49
[Comment From Edwin]
Wouldnt Chandler at the 2 be like a Magette type? both are big and neither have a great handle
1:49
AH-Not a bad comparison....I think Wilson would take that.
1:49
[Comment From Tony Smalls]
I for one think Marburry will help us this year. Is there any chance he will stay with the club this season. I would trade Randolph for a box of shoe laces.......
1:50
AH-You are among the minority on this issue, Tony. I have said it's not a basketball decision, however. It's not about skill, it's about all of the peripheral stuff. It's just time for a change.
The Clippers offered a little more than shoe laces.
1:50
[Comment From Good Stuff]
Hey Alan, you posted my question, but no answer! lol..what's up with that??
1:51
AH-I didn't post anything! Maybe your question was among several of the same and I tried to answer them together. Sorry.
1:51
[Comment From Rey T.]
What sre the real chances any of our young players such as Patrick, Roberson make the team
1:52
AH-I think they are excellent. Really. I'd be shocked if those guys weren't on the roster.
1:52
[Comment From Mike]
Follow-up to the question about Crawford at PG...how come no one sees this as an option? You don't think Crawford can be a facilitator for the offense?
1:53
AH-I understand the question, Mike, and I think D'Antoni may consider some formations with Jamal at the one, especially if Nate is out there with him. But I think for the most part you have to take advantage of Jamal's ability as a spot-up shooter and off the pick.
1:53
[Comment From Jermaine M.]
Here's a question for you, In Phoenix D'Antoni had been known for using his practices to teach versus to Kill his guys, in that Pat Riley/ JVG style Knick fans have become accustom to. Primarily because he had vets, and wanted to focus more on teaching and less on killing his guys before the game even starts. But he has a young team here, with a lot to learn. What kinda sense do you get for what his practices will be like with this squad?
1:54
AH-I think they'll work them hard early on to get them in the shape they need them to be in. These guys have no idea how much running they need to do. And, as he did in Phx, as the players are in the right shape and the sets are understood, then the teaching/video aspect is brought in to allow the players the rest they'll need.
1:54
[Comment From Lenny Poon]
Hi Alan. What do you think is the real hold up with the Randolph to Memphis trade. I would think Milicic and Jaric would be good fits here. Does memphis want more or do the knicks want a substitute for jaric? does this deal get done before the start of the season?
1:56
AH-Memphis is fine with that deal, Lenny. It's Donnie who clearly wants something better for Zach and thinks Zach should get back more in a trade.
1:56
Moderator: We have time for about four more questions ...
1:56
[Comment From karma]
Any thoughts on whether Donnie Walsh will ever appoint a GM?
1:57
AH-He didn't, but instead brought in front office people to assist him, such as John Gabriel and Misho Ostarcevic.
1:57
[Comment From Snoop]
I'm surprised nobody's mentioned this, but Eddy Curry has an opt out at the end of this year. If he underperforms again, and is booed like he was last year, night after night, do you see him opting out just to get out of dodge??
1:57
AH-Wow. Walking away from $10M because you're getting booed? wouldn't that fit the profile....
Nah, I doubt it. But maybe he asks for a trade if he can't take it anymore.
1:57
[Comment From Justin]
WHY WASN'T PATRICK EWING ADDED TO THE COACHING STAFF???
1:58
AH-Because Mike D'Antoni brought in his own guys from Phoenix.
1:58
[Comment From Alex]
Alan, what do you think the starting lineup will be in 2010-2011? Please include 3 guys you see coming off the bench as well.
2:00
AH-are you kidding me? Alex, I'm lucky I can guess what I'll be doing in 2010-11! But to make you happy, I'll play:
Nash, Crawford, LBJ, Gallinari, Curry
2:00
Moderator: Final question. Thanks all. We'll be doing more live chats as the season gets closer.
2:00
[Comment From italian stallion]
on almost every blog i read, people were upset by the balkman move. what was walsh thinking? most sophisticated stats measured him as out best defender and an super excellent rebounder for a 3
2:00
[Comment From italian stallion]
great blog and thanks for today. wish you could do more of these
2:02
AH-(And Don't quote me on that lineup!!!! I was just playing along!)
I am not one of those people, Italian. I think it was a very smart move because Ewing, Jr. essentially replaces Balkman and will be a better player, a smarter player and a more reliable player on and off the court. Balkman is a terrific athlete, but ask yourself, seriously, is he an NBA player? I don't mean to disrespect him, but he should have never been a first-round pick. Give Ewing Jr time and you'll forget Balkman. He wouldn't have made it in D'Antoni's system.
2:02
[Comment From Knickolas Knickelby]
Amazing job AH! I never read newsday till I found you. You are the best Knick writer in the Metro!
2:02
Moderator: Thanks all.
2:03
AH-Thanks Fixers. Gracie is getting frustrated with Daddy, so let me get to her before she disowns me and tells Mommy on me!
We'll do this again soon. Keep coming back to the Fix!
~You can't run from who you are.~
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9/19/2008 3:21 PM
