Bleacher Report - Articles by Jason Coldiron

A Day At The Sacramento Kings' Arena

Jason Coldiron — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 21:07:49 -0400

So, today my Dad and I got to go to Arco Arena, home of our Sacramento Kings. It was an event for potential season ticket buyers (or those who suggested they might be) to get to tour the arena, all access, pretty much everywhere. We got to go down and walk on the court, see the locker room, and have a meet and greet with the Kings new coach, Paul Westphal. Here are some of the pictures from our day.

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"Sacramento's Finest" Matt Barnes To Sign With Orlando Magic

Jason Coldiron — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 11:53:45 -0400

Reportedly, Matt Barnes has agreed in principle to sign with the Orlando Magic.

Barnes averaged 10.2 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.8 assists last season for the Phoenix Suns.

He is regarded as a versatile swing-man, capable of defending three positions on the floor.

He brings a workman-like attitude and toughness to the Magic bench.

Barnes, a Sacramento native, sports a tattoo on his shoulder that reads, “Sacramento's finest.” He has been very proud of that fact since being a two-sport High School star in Sacramento.

Having bounced around the league, playing for several teams, Barnes is the kind of player that takes nothing for granted and gives everything he has every minute he gets. This attitude will be a welcome addition to the Magic as they continue to build a championship team.

Richard Gasquet Tests Positive For Cocaine Based On...a Kiss?

Jason Coldiron — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:27:14 -0400

Just when you thought every scenario imaginable leading to a positive drug test had been exhausted...tennis star Richard Gasquet tests positive for cocaine based on...a kiss?

Today the International Tennis Federation found that Gasquet's positive cocaine test was a result of kissing a woman named “Pamela” at a nightclub in Miami.

Apparently, Gasquet went to a nightclub to see a French DJ perform. In the course of the night he kissed a woman he didn't know, or had only recently met.

The short of the story is that he kissed a woman who had used cocaine. She had it on her lips or in her system and passed it along to him.

As strange and unlikely as this may sound, the courts found this to be true.

An independent tribunal noted that "We take into account that the amount of cocaine in the player's body was so small that if he had been tested only a few hours later, his test result would be likely to have been negative." (ESPN)

Gasquet was sentenced to a retroactive ban of two and a half months and was cleared to play as of Wednesday morning.

In a day and age where seemingly every day we hear of another athlete testing positive for a banned substance, along with every possible excuse, reason, and explanation, this one just might take the cake.

What is next? Is someone going to test positive after touching a handrail at a crowded mall?

Will someone say that fibers in their pillow somehow caused a “false-positive” test result?

I can't even imagine where this leaves us. I can't imagine what is next. I can't believe what this has come to.

Selig Fights Back Against Accusations of Collusion

Jason Coldiron — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:14:20 -0400

Facing accusations of collusion by new head of the players' union Michael Weiner, commissioner Bud Selig is standing his ground.

"That's fine. They're entitled to their opinion," Selig said Tuesday at a meeting of the Baseball Writers' Association of America.

"Given the world we live in and what's happened in the last 18 months, I think this is one sport where I can't even fathom that anybody could think that. Player compensation hasn't gone down. We have many clubs struggling, and even those that have done remarkably well, remember, are very aggressive in their marketing and their discounting," he said. (ESPN)

While an investigation continues, suspicion is in the air. Players' agents and union members believe that a planned and organized conspiracy to keep salaries down has taken place.

"There are too many things that need to be explained," said Seth Levinson, who represented nearly a dozen free agents following the 2008 season. "In my experience, there are no coincidences in a monopoly." (ESPN)

In a time of an economic downturn in this country, it seems very hard to believe that the issue of players salaries has to do with anything other than decreased revenues, which are prevalent across the board in all businesses in this country.

Still, so- called “superagent” Scott Boras has seized the opportunity to cry foul.

"I think the clubs uniformly felt they were taking the momentum of a national event -- that being the economy -- and suggesting that that was going to have an impact on their revenues," Boras said.

"I think they were attempting to leverage that into a belief structure, that the value of players has gone down because there's a perception that baseball will suffer because of the economy. After experiencing the biggest blow of the economy in the fall of 2008, we know that baseball has stood its ground and still has an extraordinary revenue base."

I find it quite appalling that Boras would accuse anyone of using an economic downturn to their advantage.

The owners are feeling the pinch of the economy and it is being passed down to the players. It is that simple. There is no foul play taking place here.

Selig was quick to say as much, "Some of us, let me be as blunt as I can be, have to live in the real world, not in some make-believe little scenario that doesn't exist. And I mean that very, very sincerely," Selig said.

"They can say whatever they want to say. I wouldn't even waste my time reacting to that." (ESPN).

I have never been much of a fan of Selig, but I believe he is dead-on in his assessment of the current events transpiring here. I am very happy to see that he is holding his ground against these baseless accusations.

I have little doubt that this will pass in time.

Mario Elie Emphasizes Defense and Toughness to Young Sacramento Kings

Jason Coldiron — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 11:55:54 -0400

For the Kings, new assistant coach Mario Elie has been given the responsibility of fixing one of the worst defenses in the league.

Elie has come in and immediately stressed the importance of perimeter defense, especially considering the Kings' lack of any true shot-blockers or intimidators down low.

"We really don't have shot blockers back there, so we have to depend on our guys up front to handle their business, keep their guys in front," Elie said. "That's something I was really good at so I'm going to try to relay that message come the season." (Sacramento Bee)

Elie knows that last season, far too many teams were able to break down the Kings on the perimeter, leaving the team scrambling on defense. This is an area the Kings simply have to improve in.

To go along with this, Elie mentioned that the team must also play with some “swagger.” He knows from experience what the team's reputation around the league is.

"Anytime I would play against Sac, whether I was a player or a coach, the label on them was 'soft,'" Elie said.

The Kings have taken steps toward changing that conception about them through personnel changes.

The draft brought tough-minded players Tyreke Evans, Omri Casspi, and Jon Brockman into the fold.

The Kings will attempt to teach these players from the get-go that their performances will be a big part of how the team is viewed in the future.

Sacramento Kings Consider Options with Sean May and Ike Diogu

Jason Coldiron — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 11:41:28 -0400

Yesterday, in Las Vegas, the Kings worked out former Bobcats forward Sean May. The workout was also seen by representatives from the Portland Trailblazers.

May has played in just 82 games in his first three seasons in the NBA, due to three different knee surgeries. There were also many reports that he had a falling out with Bobcats coach Larry Brown.

While the Kings were working out May, another King, Ike Diogu waits for his fate. On a team that is clearly looking for frontcourt help, many are confused as to why Diogu hasn't received a contract offer.

Diogu was impressive in starting the last two games of the season for the Kings, but his team option was declined. Many expected him to be brought back into the fold with the Kings at a lower price. That has not happened. Diogu waits patiently.

"I was disappointed [the Kings declined the offer], because I felt that I handled myself extremely well in a very tough situation last year," Diogu said by phone from Phoenix. "I felt I could've helped the team a lot earlier than I was given the chance to, and I felt like they knew what they were getting."

It remains unclear if Diogu or May will receive offers from the Kings, who clearly need to fortify the frontcourt.

Coping with the Slowest Day of the Sports Year

Jason Coldiron — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 11:26:39 -0400

Here we are, Wednesday, July 15, also known as the slowest day in the sports year.

Historically, the day after the MLB All-Star Game is the slowest sports day of the entire year.

There are no major sports playing today. None.

Perhaps you care a lot about summer league basketball? Maybe European football (soccer)?

If you don't, you're left with tidbits of information from other sports.

If you tune in to ESPN, you can see the same highlights of last night's All-Star Game (over and over), complete with the same over-analysis of a game with little significance in the first place.

Today actually isn't as bad as it used to be.

Some of the younger readers may not remember a time when we would anxiously sit around waiting for the big 3:30 p.m. SportsCenter (back when it wasn't on all day long) where we would actually be looking forward to those highlights of the All-Star game.

It was really quite pitiful, but it was all we had.

Thanks to the emergence of the Internet, we have stories that weren't available to us several years ago.

We now have the ability to hear about the ongoing Brett Favre updates, which really don't mean anything since it's the same information we get almost every day.

We have a report about the Lakers and Lamar Odom being far apart in contract negotiations. This is hardly breaking news.

There are the reports about where Allen Iverson will play next year. Again, basically the same information that has been out there all week.

There is a report that Pedro Martinez is about to sign with the Phillies. One problem: this is also a story that has been reported for almost a week.

Oh wait, there is breaking news about Terrell Suggs getting a contract extension from the Ravens! This is information that changes everything! Oh wait...it's just another story that effects our sporting lives in no way whatsoever, unless you're a big Ravens fan I suppose.

Now there's a story about the WNBA All-Star starters being announced. This raises the age- old question: if a tree falls in the woods and no one is there to hear it....you get the point.

So, what can we do? I guess we're left to tweak our fantasy team lineups, keep hitting refresh on our favorite websites, maybe spend the day on facebook, myspace, or twitter.

Personally, I'd love to get outside. Unfortunately, here in the Sacramento valley, we have expected highs of over 100 degrees.

I guess I'm lucky, I have a job I can work on all day. Wait, my job is working from home writing about and editing sports stories.

Darn, foiled again!

Well, the MLB season resumes tomorrow and there are at least four division races that may go down to the wire.

NFL training camps will be opening soon, as will NBA camps in two more months.

There is going to be a lot of excitement in the sports world in the second half of '09...and it just can't get here fast enough for me.

Sacramento Kings' Tyreke Evans Shines in First Two Summer League Games

Jason Coldiron — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:20:50 -0400

Tyreke Evans has only been a member of the Sacramento Kings for two weeks, but he is already repaying the team's faith to select him fourth overall in June's NBA draft.

On Saturday against the Golden State Warriors in a summer league game he had 25 points, 10 rebounds and five assists.

Despite questions about his ability to play the point guard position, Evans has shown an ability to find open teammates in his first two summer league games. At the same time, he has shown his strength as a player in attacking the basket, using his long wingspan and quickness in getting to the rim.

Timberwolves general Manager David Kahn remarked, "He's almost like a football player. He needs a little bit of a head of steam, but … he will always find the hole like a running back and hit the hole and take it to the basket and score or get fouled. … We thought very highly of him." (Sacramento Bee)

Another benefit of Evans attacking the rim is his knack for getting to the free—throw line. In his first two games he has had ten and twelve free—throw attempts, respectively.

Evans figures to start this season alongside team leader Kevin Martin.

Martin is know for his efficiency and is consistently among the league leaders in free—throw attempts.

A back—court pairing of Martin and Evans, with both of them getting to the line consistently, could very well prove to be a strong starting point for the Kings' offense. It will also create match-up problems and create havoc for smaller opponents' back-courts.

It is only two games into the summer league play for Evans, but he is already showing signs of his great promise and giving the Kings hope for the upcoming season.

Sacramento Kings Roundup: July 9

Jason Coldiron — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 14:12:54 -0400

Yesterday, the Sacramento Kings held their first practice at the campus of UNLV in preparation for the team's summer league schedule.

Noticeably absent on the court was first-round pick Omri Casspi, who was forced to watch from the stands.

There is an apparent holdup with the paperwork releasing him from his former team, Maccabi Tel Aviv.

"I'm just waiting to get my release from the Israeli Federation FIBA," Casspi said to the Sacramento Bee. "It'll be tomorrow, more than likely, that I can practice."

In other Kings news, the team officially signed its other first round pick, Tyreke Evans.

Evans was given the standard contract allowed by the NBA collective bargaining agreement commiserate with his selection at No. 4 in the NBA Draft.

This contract would be for two guaranteed years with a team option for two years after that.

It is believed Evans will receive the maximum amount of $3,610,080.

Shawn Marion Was Born To Run with His New Dallas Mavericks Teammates

Jason Coldiron — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 13:04:15 -0400

Today Shawn Marion was granted his pass out of NBA purgatory.

Having spent last two seasons with the Heat and Raptors, today he was gift-wrapped for the Dallas Mavericks.

In a complicated four-team trade, the Mavericks get Marion for what amounts to Antoine Wright, Devean George, Jerry Stackhouse, and cash.

For their spare parts they get Marion, a player who just two years ago was considered one of the best players in the league.

When properly motivated, Marion is potentially a 18/10/3 kind of player, one capable of defending four positions at an elite level.

When added to a Mavericks lineup that figures to consist of Jason Kidd, Jason Terry, Dirk Nowitzki, and a combination of Erick Dampier and Marcin Gortat, Marion figures to fit right in and give the Mavericks an added element they have been sorely missing.

Marion brings his elite athleticism and defensive prowess to a team lacking in both. On the offensive end, Marion will fit right in with an up-tempo offense coordinated by Kidd. On the defensive end, he will give the Mavericks a true stopper who will likely guard the opposing team's best player during crunch time.

To the question of Marion's motivation, getting to play with Kidd and Nowitzki should be plenty. Add to that the security of a five-year, $30 million contract, and you have a lethal weapon that is now motivated to return to his status as one of the elite players in the league.

Add to this the Mavericks' Wednesday signing of defensive specialist Quinton Ross and the forthcoming acquisition of Gortat, and the Mavericks have made huge upgrades to the roster.

Owner Mark Cuban vowed to be proactive this offseason in improving the team now as opposed to waiting for the 2010 free agent bonanza that is expected next summer. The Mavericks have positioned themselves to be contenders this year and for at least the next three years (the length of Kidd's new contract).

Cuban said via his twitter account, "It's been a long day of looking at spreadsheets, reading NBA cap rules, and rubbing my eyes."

His long day will soon be paying huge dividends for his new championship-caliber Mavericks.

Led by Tyreke Evans and Omri Casspi, Sacramento Emerges as Kings on Draft Night

Jason Coldiron — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 11:47:21 -0400

In last night's NBA draft, the Kings had to hit it big.

They went in holding the No. 4, 23, and 31 picks. For a team with the worst record in the league last year, they needed to get those picks right.

As the night played out, the Kings did as well or better than anyone could have expected.

With their No. 4 pick, they took Memphis guard Tyreke Evans.

Evans shined in both of his pre-draft workouts with the team and it was commonly believed he would be the pick.

Evans is a freakishly long and athletic player whose strength and ability to get to the rim set him apart from other players. He will immediately help the Kings playing alongside team leader Kevin Martin.

The King's biggest need entering the draft was at point guard. It remains to be seen if Evans will have what it takes to be a point guard in the NBA, but regardless, he was the best player available and the right pick for this team.

Kings General Manager Geoff Petrie commented on Evans' ability to play the point:

"He considers himself a point guard. They put him at point guard at Memphis this year, and they won 27 games in a row," Petrie told the Sacramento Bee. "Does he have to get better as a point guard? Absolutely, but he thinks of himself as a point guard. … He's just too good of a talent to pass on."

Kings owner Gavin Maloof was elated with the pick.

"A (6'5") point guard who's 220 pounds, and that can score, who can defend the (point guard, shooting guard and small forward) positions with a 7-foot wingspan who's really, really fast," Maloof told the Bee. "I don't know where you find those guys. They're one in a million. I think early on we all kind of liked Jonny Flynn and I still think he'll be good. But this guy was just another dimension. He's an anomaly."

The one complication of this pick was the fact that Ricky Rubio had fallen and was available. There had to be at least a moment of hesitation on whether or not to reconsider and take Rubio.

In the end, cooler heads prevailed and the Kings got their man in Evans.

With the 23rd pick, the Kings took guard Omri Casspi from Israel.

ESPN.com called Casspi “a very tough, scrappy, slashing player.”

Casspi will look to become the first Isreali-born player to make it to the NBA.

"It was everything for me," Casspi told the Bee. "I'm so happy right now. Nobody can even imagine. I cried like a baby, and that's something I try not to do a lot."

The Kings next traded the No. 31 pick to Portland for the 38th pick. In the process, they also picked up a young point guard from the Blazers in Sergio Rodriguez.

Rodriguez will be able to come right in and contribute for the Kings.

With the 38th pick, the Kings selected forward Jon Brockman from Washington.

Brockman is considered a solid player in the paint, with a mean streak.

At 6'7" and 255 pounds, Brockman led the Pac-10 in rebounding the last three seasons, something the Kings need desperately.

"Most of rebounding is just a desire to go get the ball," Brockman told the Bee. "Not being afraid of going through some elbows and doing whatever it takes to get it. That's kind of how I play."

This is exactly the kind of player and attitude the Kings need.

With this pick, the Kings completed an incredible night by adding four players with one thing in common: toughness.

This is a team that absolutely has to improve on defense and in rebuilding. Adding tough players was clearly a priority for the Kings, who have often been called a “soft” team.

On this night, the Kings took major strides toward changing this mentality.

On this night, the Kings are big winners.

'09 NBA Draft Lottery: How I Saw It

Jason Coldiron — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 10:45:55 -0400

The NBA the lottery played out much like it was expected to, with a couple of surprises, one bonehead move, and a lot of repetitive analysis. The following is one man's account of how it played out.

1. Clippers: Blake Griffin

This was the most obvious pick of the draft. Griffin has been the No. 1 player on the board since midway through the college season. This was truly a no-brainer.

Mark Jackson on the pick: “Griffin is going to a great situation on a talented team.”...Um, I've never heard that about the Clippers before. Did he get them mixed up with the Lakers or something?

2. Grizzlies: Hasheem Thabeet

Presumably this pick meant that the Timberwolves weren't able to move up. The knock on Thabeet has been that he lacks an offensive game. In interviews, we learn that he grew up playing soccer until he was a teenager (a game where you don't use your hands). Could this explain his lack of offensive skills? Does it mean he can still improve them.

Stu Scott: “Hasheem means 'destroyer of evil'.” Interesting.

3. Thunder: James Harden

Harden is a great fit for the Thunder. By all accounts, he is the most mature and NBA- ready player in this draft. Just watching him sit and talk, he has an air of cool confidence about him. He is articulate and knows a lot about the team he's going to.

He reminds me a lot of how Brandon Roy carried himself of draft night a couple of years ago. On top of that, he's actually excited to be going there and being a part of what they're doing.

4. Kings: Tyreke Evans

So, here was the first dilemma of the draft. It was no secret the Kings were set on Evans. Many fans (myself included) thought he was the right guy for them. The question, however, was with Ricky Rubio falling, would that change the plans? The Kings stick to the plan and get Evans. I am a big fan of this pick.

Chad Ford openly questions the pick.

5 and 6. Timberwolves: Ricky Rubio and Jonny Flynn

Rubio fell to them and so they took him; I have no issues with that. The problem is that they immediately followed that up with another point guard in Flynn. Jay Bilas claims that they can play on the court together and that this is a great strategy for them.

I am not buying it. I am assuming that they picked one of them to trade. As the night unfolds, however, that seems not to be the case. I am dumbfounded. This is not a team with just one need to fill. They should have diversified with these two picks.

Further complicating things for the Timberwolves is that it is now the morning after and there are already reports from Rubio's dad that he is now likely to return to Europe for several more years. I guess he wasn't to happy with where he got picked?

The Timberwolves are now going to be forced to trade Rubio's rights elsewhere or do some serious convincing of Rubio to stay.

7. Warriors: Stephen Curry

Not since Steve Francis has a player seemed so upset to be picked. Minutes before the draft, Curry actually admitted (on TV!) that he'd be disappointed if he didn't get picked by the Knicks. Then he goes just one pick before them; that has to sting.

For the Warriors, they get the best shooter in this draft, a player that will fit right in and likely thrive under Don Nelson. But how motivated will he actually be?

8. Knicks: Jordan Hill

Having seen Curry go one pick before them, they take the next target on their radar in Hill. Hill looks like someone who will fit right in with the Knicks running offensive attack. He is a big man, but an athlete that can run the court. So much so that Bilas notes, “he is more of an athlete than a basketball player.”

Could this pave the way for the Knicks to let David Lee go?

9. Raptors: DeMar DeRozan

This was one of the worst kept secrets in the draft. The Raptors had targeted DeRozan and got their man.

10. Bucks: Brandon Jennings

This pick looks a lot like insurance for Ramon Sessions. Jeff Van Gundy calls him, “a very left-handed player.” ok...moving right along...

11. Nets: Terrence Williams

The Nets get another young player, Rick Pitino looks ready to cry in joy.

After trading Vince Carter earlier in the day, they draft someone who could eventually fill his wing spot. Probably a good idea.

12. Bobcats: Gerald Henderson

Another pick that was a surprise to...nobody. And the Bobcats add another local player...no way!

13. Pacers: Tyler Hansbrough

Hansbrough goes higher than many expected. It is good to see a great college player get rewarded. (Please don't mention J.J Redick, I just ate.)

The crowd chants, “o-ver-ra-ted.”

14. Suns: Earl Clark

I have heard this guy compared to everyone from Chris Webber to Antoine Walker. Well, one of those would be a good pick.

Rick Pitino says he's very shy. Is that a quality you really want in an NBA player? Pitino is now full-on crying. I now can see it's not that he's happy, it's because he just watched his starting front-court move on to the NBA and he has to figure out how to replace them.

And that is your NBA lottery, and that is how I saw it.

Orlando Magic Get Carter from Nets for Lee and Expiring Contracts

Jason Coldiron — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 18:02:14 -0400

Draft day started early with the Nets trading Vince Carter and Ryan Anderson (a first-round pick of a year ago) to the Magic for Courtney Lee, Rafer Alston and Tony Battie.

The Magic add another high-flying scorer to their wing rotation. A lineup of Lewis, Turkoglu and Carter could create matchup problems all over the place for opposing defenses.

In the process, they also solve the Jameer Nelson vs. Alston dilemma by sending Alston out of town.

Battie is replaced by Anderson, who is younger, a better shooter, and basically a better player anyway.

The Magic do, however, take on much more salary with Carter's contract. This makes re-signing Turkoglu and Marcin Gortat much more problematic.

For the Nets, the motivation is simple. In Alston and Battie, they receive $16.5 million in expiring contracts. In addition, replacing Carter with the up-and-comer Lee works very well for a team trying to get younger.

The Magic are taking quite a gamble with this trade by taking on Carter. On the other hand, it could be the move that puts them over the top, and is also a quick response to the Cavs adding Shaquille O'Neal.

Thunder Draft Preview: The Choice May Come Down To Harden and Thabeet

Jason Coldiron — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:09:09 -0400

The Thunder seem to have narrowed down their choice with the number three pick to Ricky Rubio, Hasheem Thabeet and James Harden.

ESPN is reporting that General Manager Sam Presti met with all three players on Sunday in Los Angeles.

Thabeet would give them a defensive post presence, kind of a “goalie” type to go with Russel Westbrook's outstanding perimeter defense. The Thunder are loaded offensively, so Thabeet's offensive shortcomings wouldn't necessarily kill the team.

Harden would give the team another outstanding scorer in the back- court. He could be a very solid complement to Kevin Durant. Harden is also seen by many as an “NBA ready” type of player who could step right in and contribute to the rising Thunder.

The wildcard in all this remains Rubio.

Having spent the last four seasons playing professionally in Spain, it has been hard to evaluate him.

Some compare him to Pete Maravich or Steve Nash, while others believe he could be a complete bust.

Whether or not the Thunder would consider Rubio may become a moot point by the time they pick at number three.

The Grizzlies hold the number two pick, but it is believed that at least two teams (the Timberwolves and Knicks) may be trying to trade up to that pick to take Rubio.

In this scenario, the Thunder would have to choose between the post defender and the smooth wing man.

Conventional wisdom in the NBA holds that when in doubt you should err on the side of a big man.

On the other hand, a couple of years ago the Blazers followed that philosophy and took Greg Oden over Durant, a move that now looks like a huge mistake.

If I were the Thunder, I would go with Harden, but I am not a GM and so we will have to wait until tomorrow to find out.

Sacramento Kings Coach Paul Westphal Hires Staff

Jason Coldiron — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:49:48 -0400

New Kings head coach Paul Westphal has taken the next step as coach by hiring the rest of his coaching staff.

On Monday, the team announced that Mario Elie, Jim Eyen, and Leonard “Truck” Robinson had joined Westphal's staff.

Elie has been an assistant in Dallas, Golden State, and San Antonio. He was also interviewed for the Kings' head coaching position two years ago before the job went to Reggie Theus.

"He was one of the first guys that I targeted," Westphal said to the Sacramento Bee. "He's going to really help us with his defensive intensity."

Eyen has 18 years of coaching experience in the league, mostly under Mike Dunleavy. He has been an assistant to Dunleavy on four different occasions, spending the last six years with him on the Clippers' bench.

Robinson spent last year as a scout for Washington, but has no NBA coaching experience. He was also a teammate of Westphal's in Phoenix and New York during their playing days.

The fact that Westphal hired at least one person he is very comfortable with is probably a good thing.

It was also announced that 78-year-old Kings fixture Pete Carill has been retained. Carill is the architect of the “Princeton offense” that many teams run variations of in the league, including the Kings for the last several years.

Westphal was happy to keep Caril around, noting, "He'll be around quite a bit. He won't travel to all the games, but he'll be a presence at practice, home games, and meetings."

As Westphal returns to the ranks of head coach in the NBA, it would seem that he now has a solid staff and support system at his side.

Sacramento Kings Draft: Rubio Finally Gets His Chance To Impress

Jason Coldiron — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 13:12:10 -0400

On Monday, Ricky Rubio finally got to work out and make his case with the Sacramento Kings.

Last week Rubio had a scheduled workout that he had to skip due to falling ill. He was able to have dinner with Kings General Manager Geoff Petrie, but missed the meeting with Joe and Gavin Malloof, as well as the workout.

On Monday, Rubio took to the court with Petrie and new Kings head coach Paul Westphall.

While he has had interviews with the Thunder and Grizzlies, the Kings are the first team he has worked out for and may be the only one.

When asked by a reporter at the airport how he would feel about playing in Sacramento Rubio responded, “very good. Of course they have great weather and great fit. We'll see what they're gonna do.”

The workout was a bit unusual in the fact that he was alone. This proved problematic for him to display his passing skills.

Said Rubio, "I can't show them what I do on the court. This workout is not my style. I need my teammates around me to play basketball. I was alone." (Sacramento Bee)

With two days to go before the draft this Thursday, it appears the Kings have narrowed down their choice to Rubio and Memphis guard Tyreke Evans, who won over the team in a Sunday workout.

Sacramento Kings Draft: Team Works Out Final Candidates; Tyreke Evans Shines

Jason Coldiron — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:10:32 -0400

It appears the Kings have narrowed down their choices for the No. 4 overall pick to three candidates: Tyreke Evans, Ricky Rubio, and Jonny Flynn.

On Sunday, the Kings held a workout with the last remaining prospects they are considering. This was a bit of a who's-who of the point guard class.

The workout included Evans, Flynn, Stephen Curry and Patrick Mills.

Each of these prospects bring very different strengths and weaknesses to the table.

Flynn represents a true distributing point guard with a vocal leadership style that the young Kings have been sorely missing. On the downside, there are questions about his size and strength.

For Curry, the obvious strength is his shooting ability. He is considered the best pure shooter in the class. There are, however, questions about his ability to run the point, along with a standing belief that he would rather not play in Sacramento.

Sources say that he was only in Sacramento for this workout for the opportunity to show what he could do against the other top point guards.

Patrick Mills displayed his blazing fast speed and is considered a possibility for the Kings second first-rounder at No. 23, the pick acquired from Houston in the Ron Artest trade.

The real story of this workout, however, was Tyreke Evans.

Evans will enter the NBA with a suspect jump shot and a lack of experience running the point, as he played primarily on the wings in college.

Evans' strengths are his size, athleticism and pure physicality. These were on full display in this workout, as he was able to physically dominate the other guards and get himself to the rim at will. One observer noted that, “He looked like a man playing among boys.”

One of his crossovers on Curry, which left Curry on the ground, led observers to further question Curry's defensive ability.

If this workout is any indication, it seems likely that Evans will be the Kings pick on Thursday.

Noticeably absent from this workout were other top point guard prospects Brandon Jennings and Jrue Holliday. This would seem to suggest that they are both out of the running.

The last complication is the wavering interest of the Kings in Spanish point guard Ricky Rubio.

Rubio was in Sacramento last week, but fell ill. As a result, he missed out on both his workout and his interview with Kings ownership, the Malloof brothers.

One obstacle for Rubio was cleared on Sunday as his agent was finalizing the details of his buyout from his team in Spain.

It is still unclear if the Kings will consider Rubio if he is available at No. 4.

New Sacramento Kings Coach Has Long Road Ahead

Jason Coldiron — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:53:47 -0400

New Sacramento Kings head coach Paul Westphal has a lot of work ahead of him.

Westphal recently completed his four day media tour as the new coach, and spent much of his time talking about how his career has almost never involved failure.

He enjoyed a successful NBA career that included five All-Star selections and an NBA title with the Celtics.

As a coach, he had a .627 winning percentage and took the Phoenix Suns to the finals in 1993, eventually losing to Michael Jordan's Bulls.

But that is all old news, part of his past. The concern now is how to turn around the league's worst team. In doing so, he knows he is only a guide, one part of what must be a collective effort for the team.

Coaches only coach. What this team needs is a significant upgrade in talent on the court.

"There are no coaching saviors in this league. We've got to get that right straight from the start. Coaches can help, but players win the games," Wesphal told the Sacramento Bee.

The Kings' problems extend beyond the court. Attendance reached a record low last year in what was once a guaranteed sell-out every night.

This leads right back to the product on the court. The team needs to rediscover the excitement and success of the Kings squads from earlier this decade.

Charles Barkley, who played under Westphal in Phoenix, shared these sentiments.

"They've got to get some players, man," Barkley said. "That's the bottom line. I mean, it doesn't matter who the coach is, they've got to get some better players."

Barkley continued, saying Westphal is the right man for this job.

"I think he's great for young guys," Barkley said. "He's going to teach them how to play the game, and I think he didn't get enough credit for that in Phoenix.

"He is very good creatively, offensively, and that's what Sacramento needs is something to excite their fan base."

Many Kings fans had hoped for a bigger name, such as Jeff Van Gundy or Kurt Rambis.

But the reality is that, no matter who the coach is, this team has a long way to go.

Westphal is just one part of the equation.

Hits, Misses, Trades, Tragedies: The Sacramento Kings Draft History Has It All

Jason Coldiron — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:03:28 -0400

The Sacramento Kings's draft history has certainly had it's share of ups and downs. It is a history filled with hits, misses, and tragedy. From a botched number one choice, to two major tragedies, to planting the seeds of a contender, to an era of rebuilding, the Kings have gone through it all. Here are some of the ups and downs of their rocky ride.

Begin Slideshow

Lakers Vs. Magic, Game Five: How I Saw It

Jason Coldiron — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 11:58:01 -0400

Tonight the Los Angeles Lakers visited the Orlando Magic in what would prove to be the decisive and final game of the '09 NBA finals. The following is an account of the night's events.

First Quarter

10:55 - The Lakers are all over the boards. Dwight Howard seems to be on an island by himself with no help. 2-2.

9:58 - Kobe gets on the board with a tough running jumper.

9:33 - Fisher runs right over Rafer Alston, no call, Fisher easy layup.

8:51 - Orlando gets a three on one fast break. They end up with a missed Lewis layup and no rebound... NOT good.

7:50 - Alston refuses to shoot with no defender within seven feet of him. He forces a bad pass in to traffic that is stolen.

7:07 - Fisher attempts to flop, no call, Lewis layup. Orlando leads 15-6 early.

6:08 - Gasol clearout on the block, scores over Lewis. 17-10 Orlando.

4:56 - Courtney Lee misses an open three-ball. There are FIVE Lakers under the boards and no Magic to be found.

3:15 - Howard makes a strong move to the right (the only move he has), but misses the easy layup.

2:44 - Again, Howard makes a strong move to the right (the only move he has), but misses the easy layup.

2:09 - Mike Breen: “The Lakers haven't lost three straight games since Gasol arrived in February of 08.'” Ok, that is seriously bad news for the Magic.

1:21 Howard misses again from point- blank range.

Howard gets the ball in the paint. Four Lakers surround him immediately. The refs bail out Howard with the whistle. 28-26 Magic lead.

A Pietrus missed three ends the first quarter.

Second Quarter

10:32 - Bynum makes a sweet move in the paint. Magic lead 30-28.

9:37 - Tony Battie gets it in to Howard down low for a score and a foul. 34-28 Magic.

9:05 - Jameer Nelson enters the game. It takes him a whopping 15 seconds to turn the ball over.

8:32 - Odom makes a sweeping reverse layup under the backboard. Score AND ONE.

6:43 - Gasol blocks Gortat at the rim.

5:52 - Fisher drains a wide open three. 40-39 Magic.

5:41 - JVG: “That's my least favorite call in the NBA.” (referring to a double technical foul on Ariza and Odom.”

5:07 - Lakers secondary break, Ariza makes a wide open three. 42-40 Lakers take the lead.

4:12 - Ariza drains another three from the same spot. 47-40 Lakers.

3:37 Fisher layup, 13-0 Lakers run to lead 49-40. The Magic are on the ropes. We all knew a time would come in this game where they would have to either find an inner strength they haven't shown yet or roll over. This is that moment.

3:07 - 16 straight Laker points. 52-40 on an Odom score.

2:37 - An Alston driving score ends the Orlando drought. 52-42 Lakers.

2:06 - Mike Breen: “(Hedo) is known for his good 'ball denial.'” Good to know...

1:16 - Ariza banks in a jumper as the shot clock expires. 56-46 Lakers.

0:48 - JVG: “Gortat is a better defender than Howard.” Um, didn't Howard just win the defensive player of the year?

Halftime

Lakers lead 56-46. Mike Wilbon sums up the first half perfectly, “Orlando is backing down.”

Thanks to Chris Connelly we learn that “the three tenors are the triangle offense of the opera.”

Stu Scott: “Who was your musical influence as a player?”

Jon Barry: “Bette Midler.” I couldn't make this stuff up.

Third Quarter

11:15 - The Magic have come out looking to get the ball to Howard. (even if they have to force it in).

8:49 - Bynum picks up his fourth foul. Will it even matter? I'm guessing no.

6:47 - Two straight Odom threes make it 64-53 Lakers.

Commercials featuring vignettes of players holding the championship trophy are in full swing. The end is near.

4:30 - Magic shot clock violation. It is all coming apart now. 68-55 Lakers.

3:39 - Kobe goes one on four and still gets fouled and goes to the line. 71-55 Lakers.

Mark Jackson, “the Magic must respond right now.”

2:39 - J.J Redick enters the game, a classic sign of desperation.

1:38 - Alston is the only Magic player that seems to have a pulse out there. Naturally, SVG pulls him out of the game in favor of Nelson.

1:14 Howard picks up his fifth foul. This will have no impact on the rest of the game.

Farmar hits a runner. 76-61 Lakers. I keep waiting for one last push by Orlando. I'm no longer sure it's coming.

Fourth Quarter

Kobe is in the game. He's engaging his teammates, he's dominating at both ends, he has the scowl. The Magic are done.

11:02 - Kobe scores to give him 23 points. He currently has Redick guarding him... Redick? Why even bother guarding him at all at this point?

9:22 - Lewis fouls Walton to keep him off the boards. These are the things that happen when the ship is crashing. 80-67 Lakers.

8:18 - Kobe drains a DEEP three-pointer with Hedo all over him. The scowl strikes again. Kobe already has a line of 26/5/5/4. I won't even point out how obvious it is that he's going to win finals MVP... DOH!

6:37 - The refs are swallowing their whistles. Let them play!

5:00 - The commentators are in full-out “kiss Kobe's a^^” mode.

3:55 - Gasol gets his own rebound and a putback. 93-76 Lakers. Orlando has given up.

The Magic have gone into a full-court press. (about three quarters too late. Nice move, SVG!) Has one coach ever outcoached another as badly as Phil Jackson did in this series? Oh wait, Don Nelson over Avery Johnson in the Warriors-Mavs series a couple of years ago, my bad.
Adam Morrison was in a suit this entire series (but still impacted it as much as Redick). Does he still get a ring?

It's all over. The Lakers are champions. The Magic were outcoached, outhustled, and outplayed.

There were a couple of dramatic moments earlier in the series, including a historic game four battle. That said, the best team clearly won this thing.

This Lakers team will not go down as one of the greatest of all time by any stretch. They were, however, the best NBA team of this year and that is what matters.

And that's how I saw it.

Rose Issues Statement Regarding Gang Sign Photos

Jason Coldiron — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 19:45:11 -0400

Derrick Rose has issued a statement regarding pictures of him flashing gang signs.

"Recently, a photo has been circulating on the Internet which appears to depict me flashing a gang sign. This photo of me was taken at a party I attended in Memphis while I was in school there, and was meant as a joke...a bad one, I now admit. I want to emphatically state, now and forever, that Derrick Rose is anti-gang, anti-drug and anti-violence. I am not, nor have I ever been, affiliated with any gang and I can't speak loudly enough against gang violence, and the things that gangs represent.” (ESPN)

"In posing for this picture, I am guilty of being young, naive and of using extremely poor judgment. I sincerely apologize to all my fans for my mistake. I pride myself on being a good citizen, and role model, that young people can look up to and I want to urge all my young fans to stay away from gangs and gang-related activities."

Sacramento Kings Draft: Holiday, Flynn, and Jennings To Work Out

Jason Coldiron — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 19:35:53 -0400

The Kings are set to introduce new head coach Paul Westphal on Friday, a day on which they will also work out three strong possibilities for their fourth overall selection in the upcoming NBA draft.

In the morning, the Kings will be holding a workout featuring UCLA's Jrue Holiday, Syracuse's Jonny Flynn and Italian League professional Brandon Jennings.

In the afternoon, they will formally introduce Westphal, the new head coach who finalized his contract Thursday evening.

Westphal is expected to be at the morning workout and will be a part of the draft selection process from this point forward.

The Kings' biggest position of need on the court is clearly point guard, so the team will give strong consideration to drafting at that position.

A strong workout by any of the three could give them a foot up on the others in their quest to be drafted as high as possible.

Lakers Win Historic Game Four Battle: How I Saw It

Jason Coldiron — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 02:34:53 -0400

Tonight, the Orlando Magic hosted the Los Angeles Lakers in a critical Game Four of the finals. The following is one man's account of the evening.

OK, before I get into my running blog, I have have to say that this turned out to be one of the greatest games I've ever seen (and I've been watching the NBA for over 25 years).

I can't think of a game off the top of my head that took me through so many emotions and twists. The game ended about 15 minutes ago, and I am still completely adrenalized. I can't believe what I watched tonight.

OK, enough with the build up, here goes the blog:

I begin watching the pregame show at 5:30 p.m. my time (California). The pregame isn't doing much for me, so I flip to ESPN 2 where they are showing one of my favorite things in the world: dog jumping! If you've never seen a slow motion shot of a dog flying 25 feet through the air, you simply must check it out sometime. There's nothing like it.

So, to that whole NBA game thing going on:

During the pre-game introductions all the Lakers look pumped up. They're running down the line, jumping around, etc. When it comes to Kobe, he quietly walks down the line with his hands out slightly for his teammates to touch.

He has the scowl and a look of intensity you don't see during a pre-game. I have to say he looks like a man who's about to rip the hearts out of the Magic faithful.

Wait! Stan Van Gundy has the scowl, too! Hmmm. This could get interesting.

I am extremely tired right now. Fortunately, I have enough Dr. Pepper on hand to kill a small goat.

Jeff Van Gundy: “You can never count on shooting 62 percent from the field for a whole game.” (like say, the Magic in Game 3). This is kind of the key dilemma of the series, isn't it?

If the Lakers win this game, the series is basically over. If the Magic win, it's a new series. Could the stakes be any higher?

On ABC's “Wipeout,” “that is one big fat ugly woman.”

My girlfriend then takes a three-hour nap and misses out on history. On the other hand, her sleeping while I'm watching the game and working just might make her one of the best girlfriends ever, don't ya think?

First quarter:

12:00 The referee botches the opening toss. What a great omen...

11:01 Courtney Lee misses his second wide-open 3 from the corner.

9:52 Lee finally makes one.

9:31 Fisher makes his first shot, a rainbow jumper in traffic. Lakers lead 4-3.

8:54 Lee bites and fouls Kobe on a pump-fake for the 75,845th time this series.

8:14 Fisher takes a “blow to the head.”...and this is a bad thing?...ok, that was in poor taste.

7:58 Howard decks Gasol with a right elbow right in front of the referee and has the nerve to argue about it.

6:12 Hedo Turkoglu; typically when a pass ends up in the third row, that's a bad pass.

6:04 Kobe goes one on three. Of course he scores, AND ONE.

5:50 We've reached the first “mandatory” (cash crop) timeout. The Magic lead 12-11.

4:53 Dwight Howard already has NINE freaking rebounds!

4:10 An Odom half-hook in the lane makes it 16-13, Magic.

3:44 Laker foul trouble brings in DJ Mbenga, who has played a total of 12 minutes in the '09 playoffs.

2:48 Mike Breen: “Ariza with a T, Orlando by three.”

1:08 Hedo makes a touch foul on Luuuuuuuuuuuke Walton. Uh oh, this brings in J.J. Redick. (I scramble to ready my one-liners).

The Lakers have a lineup on the floor consisting of Kobe, Walton, Farmar, Mbenga and Powell. This reminds me of one of those “NBA cares” commercials where you see an NBA player on the court teaching a bunch of first graders the game.

The quarter ends with a Redick miss... in a related story, water is wet and the sky is blue (too easy).

At the end of one quarter, Kobe has 13 points and Howard has 11 rebounds.

This is already an intense game. Bynum, Gasol and Odom have two fouls each, leading to the aforementioned lineup.

With the foul trouble already looming, I'm hoping like heck the refs don't decide this game.

Phil Jackson being interviewed: “I don't know what the refs are looking at.” Neither do I Phil, neither do I.

Second Quarter:

11:59 The Lakers begin the quarter playing man-to-man full court. They have a bit of success slowing the Magic down. It also occurs to me that this strategy could force the Magic to play with a point guard on the floor in crunch time (which they hate to do).

11:16 Jameer Nelson's first shot misses by a foot.

10:53 Howard is called for an offensive three-second call. He was there for about six seconds, but the Magic couldn't get him the ball. This would prove to be a sign of things to come.

10:02 Howard decks Nelson (his own teammate) to grab a rebound. Hey, whatever it takes, right?

8:56 Timeout. Magic lead 30-24.

8:13 Gasol posts and scores over Gortat. To say this is a mismatch is the understatement of the year (side-note: Gortat came in and played a few strong minutes and never came back in. SVG strikes again).

7:52 Magic lead swells to 37-27. Kobe re-enters the game.

7:18 Things are getting VERY physical. Please refs, don't ruin this game!

5:53 Odom gets called for a ticky-tacky foul while guarding Hedo. Meanwhile, Kobe and Rashard Lewis are training for the UFC with no whistles.

4:24 The Lakers are called for their second technical foul. This is not the sign of the veteran team keeping their cool in the midst of a game that's becoming brutally physical.

3:52 Lewis is called for a moving screen. Ok, here's my problem here: the Magic are doing this literally every single possession. How the heck are the refs deciding when to call it and when not to? I really don't know.

2:46 Rebounds: Lakers: 14. Dwight Howard: 14.

2:03 In an uber-physical game, Fisher dares try to flop, no call thankfully. Magic lead 47-35.

1:31 Josh Powell makes a baseline jumper. All seven of us that have ever seen him play know that he is actually money from there.

Four commercial breaks in one minute of game played? Enough already!

Halftime, Magic lead 49-37. Remember this, Magic up by 12 at the half in this game.

Magic Johnson and the Zen master are on the same page. They both note that the Lakers don't seem to have a plan for how to win this game. Jackson then mentions, “defense will lead to offense.”

Third Quarter:

11:47 Alston make a sweet dribble move to the rim and misses a wide open layup... what does this remind you of?

10:05 The Lakers are still more interested in looking for whistles than trying to stop the Magic.

9:40 Ariza makes a steal and breakout dunk. 51-41 Magic.

9:15 A Kobe three-ball makes it 51-44. Pietrus gets up off the Orlando bench.

8:21 Hedo makes an absurd jumper falling out of bounds to his left.

7:58 Ariza makes an open three. SVG calls timeout. The Magic lead is down to five. The crowd has gone quiet. The Laker defense is leading to scores on offense...this sounds familiar also.

7:11 Hedo picks up his fourth foul guarding Ariza and heads to the bench. This is baaaaaaaad timing for the Magic, who now lead just 54-53.

6:41 Ariza drains another three, giving him 11 points in the quarter. 54-53 Magic.

5:58 Bynum free-throws give the Lakers a 55-54 lead. They are on an 18-5 run and the Magic 12 point lead is history in a mere six minutes. They will be thinking about this for a VERY long time.

4:54 Howard refuses to give up on any play. Bynum picks up his fourth foul. JVG notes, “I didn't see anything.”

4:26 Fisher is hitting the deck darn near every play, matching Howard's intensity.

2:50 The refs are still calling touch fouls, but letting muggings go. Is this intentional? I simply don't understand the mindset of the officials.

1:49 An Ariza run-out layup gives the Lakers a 63-61 lead.

1:28 Kobe and Howard get tangled up under the rim leading to a heated exchange. This is an incredible and symbolic moment. This is the biggest game of the year and the two best players are looking each other in the eye for the first time. They both know that the other will not back down or give up. One of them will have to take the game away from the other.

Kobe makes an absurd flat-footed shot in the lane.

Lakers now lead 67-63 at the end of the third quarter. They covered 16 points in one quarter. Again, Magic fans will remember this for a very long time.

Based on the last 10 minutes, I now have the feeling that I'm witnessing history here. Something very special is happening.

Fourth quarter:

11:38 Do you really think the Magic want Tony Battie shooting jumpers right about now?

10:39 Alston was having an impact on this game. Nelson is bringing nothing. Mark Jackson says as much. Note: Nelson would make a couple of key plays down the stretch, but the reality is that SVG's loyalty to Nelson hurt his team in this game, and this series for that matter.

10:16 Fisher takes about 27 steps on the way to the rim for a layup. Lakers lead 71-65.

9:54 Odom fouls Hedo on a three-point attempt. A horrific defensive play, giving him five fouls. Lakers lead 71-67.

9:09 Once again, the Magic can't get an open Howard the ball under the rim (one of the keys to this game). He ends up getting called for an offensive foul.

7:52 Pietrus makes a big corner three. Kobe responds with a long jumper while wearing Pietrus like a wetsuit. Lakers lead 75-70.

5:38 Pietrus lay-in AND ONE. 76-75 Magic re-take the lead.

5:04 Hedo misses two free throws.

3:24 Hedo goes back to the free-throw line and makes one of two. 79-79 tie.

3:02 A Howard three-point play gives the Magic an 82-79 lead.

2:35 Ariza drains a three from the dressing room with the shot clock expiring. 82-82.

1:34 A Hedo floater in the lane makes it 87-82 Magic. It appears the Magic have weathered the Laker storm and are going to win this thing.

The Lakers utilize a two-for-one. A Gasol dunk makes it 87-84 Magic.

11.1 Howard is fouled and heading to the line. If he makes even one of two this thing is over. He misses both. Magic fans are having Nick Anderson flashbacks.

Lakers ball, three-point game. You have to think that Kobe is shooting even if he has five guys, three monkeys and an army of drunken midgets guarding him.

The Lakers take the ball full court, giving them a better chance to get the ball inbounds and forcing the Magic to defend the entire court.

This is a brilliant move by the Zen master and I'm honestly not sure how many coaches in the league would have the stones to do this with so little time on the clock.

The inbounds pass goes to Kobe in the back-court. He is swarmed immediately and gives up the ball. (so much for my theory). The pass goes to Fisher, who charges down court.

Ok, time running down. If you're the Magic, a three pointer is the ONLY thing that can hurt you. Either foul Fisher immediately and send him to the line or let him cruise to the hoop for a bucket. TWO POINTS MEAN NOTHING RIGHT NOW! I repeat TWO POINTS MEAN NOTHING!

Apparently, Jameer Nelson missed the memo (somehow channeling Mike Bibby's end-of-game defense). He is playing five freaking feet off of Fisher as he approaches the three-point line!

As Fisher pulls up for a game-tying three, Nelson suddenly realizes how out of position he is and steps toward Fisher, nearly compounding his error by fouling him. Fisher's three goes up and in with 4.6 seconds left.

This is a fantastic play by Fisher, but Nelson's defense killed the Magic. KILLED THEM. In his defense, there is no way he should have been in the game anyway. (I refer you to my comments about SVG's loyalty above). I hope that was worth it, Stan.

I'm sure Magic fans understand that you put Nelson's desire to play over the best interests of your team.

Incredibly, the Magic still have a chance to win. 4.6 seconds remain, plenty of time to get a good look at a winning shot.

As Hedo tries to inbound, the Lakers switch on every Magic screen (and there are many going on at once). Kobe ends up under the rim guarding Howard.

The Magic, once again, fail to get him the ball, although in this case I credit the Laker defense, in particular Kobe. He is giving up about seven inches and maybe 100 pounds (of pure muscle) to Howard and somehow denies him ideal position.

This is a perfect example of how championship teams find a way to get critical stops when they absolutely, positively have to have them.

The Magic end up with a Pietrus runner that draws back rim, but never really had a chance.

On top of the Howard-Kobe mismatch, Rashard Lewis (an elite shooter) is standing open in the corner five feet from Pietrus as he forces his shot. Missed opportunities for the Magic, over and over.

Still, the game is tied and the Magic still have a chance.

OVERTIME

4:34 Lewis makes a three with the clock winding down. 90-87 Magic.

3:32 Kobe makes back-to-back jumpers. 91-90 Lakers.

1:57 Kobe throws up an air-ball on a play where he had no intention of passing. The replay shows that Pietrus hit his hand.

1:27 Howard makes one of two from the line. 91-91, Lakers ball.

Kobe goes one-on-four and forces a shot. The Magic are so out of position from chasing Kobe that Gasol comes up with the rebound. Lakers call time-out.

Lakers isolate Kobe on the right side with Pietrus guarding. Kobe makes his move, draws a crowd, the fights against everything that makes him who he is and makes the right play by passing to a wide-open Fisher. Fisher drains a three from two feet behind the line with the shot clock at two. He did it again! INCONCEIVABLE! Lakers lead 94-91.

Hedo forces a three and misses. Howard gets a hand on the ball and tips it out to the arc. Unfortunately for the Magic, nobody rotated over when Hedo's shot went up, so Gasol collects the rebound and runs away from traffic and gets a run-out dunk. Lakers go up 99-91.

Another missed three from Orlando effectively ends the game. The Lakers close out and win 99-91.

There are some words and bumps between Gasol and Pietrus at the end, which is to be expected in such a heated contest.

The Aftermath:

The Lakers win a game for the ages and go up three games to one.

I've been watching sports long enough to know that anything can happen. That said, this series is over.

The Lakers are going to be NBA champions within the next six days. Even if Orlando can take game five, there is no way they are going back to L.A. and winning two more. It's just not going to happen. That's how I see it...

And that is how I saw it.

Sacramento Kings Draft: Team Works Out Tyreke Evans

Jason Coldiron — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 19:10:48 -0400

The Kings recently worked out former Memphis guard Tyreke Evans.

Evans' workout partners didn't make it, so he worked out against Kings' executives, Fat Lever and Shareef Abdur- Rahim.

"I wanted to work out against other people," Evans said. "But the people I wanted to work out with against just didn't work out, so I just went by myself. I ain't running from nobody. I'll work out against the best." (Sacramento Bee)

Evans, 19, is a physically imposing guard prospect. At 6' 5" and 217 pounds, he has the size to create matchup problems at the next level.

"My size is an advantage because there are a lot of small guards," Evans said. "I think I'd be a perfect fit here, bringing the ball up and then coming off on the wing."

Evans said he is willing and able to play either the point or two guard and do whatever the coach asks of him.

"If he wants me to create for others, I'll do that," Evans said. "But if he wants me to be the point guard and if I have the option, take the basket, then I'll do that. Whatever he needs. If I was to come here, they have Martin, who's a great player, so I would have to get him a lot of shots before I tried to get mine."

Questions linger about his shooting touch. He shot just 27.4 percent from beyond the arc in college.

"I did a lot of interviews in Chicago (at the predraft combine)," Evans said. "And everybody said it's definitely something I need to work on."

Evans is considered one of the top candidates for the Kings with the fourth overall pick in this year's draft.

Paul Westphal Heads to Sacramento: Kings Land Their Man

Jason Coldiron — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 19:05:17 -0400

Late Tuesday night the Sacramento Kings finally settled in on their man to lead the team as their next head coach: Paul Westphal.

The hiring ends a two-month coaching search for the team.

The Kings reportedly reached an agreement with Westphal after being turned down by Lakers assistant Kurt Rambis, although there are some mixed reports about the validity of this.

Sources say the Kings were turned off by one rival representative’s relentless and nasty attacks on Westphal’s candidacy.

Regardless, Westphal will receive a two-year deal worth $1.5 million for the first two years and a third year option worth $2 million. Westphal will also have financial incentives in the deal based on the team's improvement.

The 58-year-old Westphal has a career record of 267-159 in previous coaching stops in Phoenix and Seattle.

The agreement was reported first on Tuesday night by the Sacramento Bee. Westphal also relayed the message to ESPN's Avery Johnson, for whom Westphal was an assistant in Dallas.

"I have been looking for a good opportunity to get back and do what I like to do and I think that the Kings present an exciting challenge for me," Westphal told the Bee.

"I'm really happy I got the job and whatever winding turns it had to take—I don't even know all the winding turns that it took—I'm just happy that they decided I'm the guy for them and I can't wait to get started."

“I’m really excited,” explained Westphal. “This is a great opportunity and I really appreciate the confidence the Maloofs and Geoff Petrie are showing in me. I can’t wait to get to work.”

The Kings general manager hinted on Monday that a resolution to the team's coaching situation would come, “sooner than later.”

In a team press release, Petrie said, “We are really excited to announce that we have reached an agreement in principle with Paul Westphal to become the Kings Head Coach. We set some parameters at the start of this coaching search to look for a successful, experienced leader and Paul certainly meets those qualifications.

"He has a wealth of experience in the NBA as both a coach and player having won 63 percent (267-159) of his career games as a coach with winning records in both Phoenix and Seattle.

"He has been to the Finals three times, twice as a player and once as head coach of the Suns. He was very impressive during the interview process and in the subsequent conversations we have had since the interview. Paul also was greatly supported over the past few weeks by many of his former players and staff and others around the NBA game.”

Westphal was last a head coach in the NBA during the '00-'01 season with Seattle. Before that, he was the head coach for the Suns during the Charles Barkley era, losing to Jordan's Bulls in the '92-'93 finals.

He was later an assistant for Avery Johnson on the Mavs bench during Johnson's last season there in '07-'08. Since then he had served as a consultant to the Mavs.

Westphal is expected to quickly add Mavericks' assistant Mario Elie to his coaching staff.

Sacramento had the league's worst record this season at 17-65, and the team holds the No. 4, No. 23, and No. 31 picks in the upcoming NBA draft.

The hiring leaves Minnesota with the league's only coaching vacancy as owner Glen Taylor decides whether or not to bring back Kevin McHale.

Lakers-Magic: How I Saw Game Three of the NBA Finals

Jason Coldiron — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 01:11:07 -0400

The following is an account of tonight's pivotal Game Three of the NBA Finals between the Lakers and Magic.

Pregame

Mike Wilbon: “The Lakers have the best player. It doesn't matter what the Magic do, it's all about the Lakers. And you have to beware of the Kobe scowl.”

I would be more worried about stopping him, considering he scored 40 points and added eight rebounds in the first game, which was considered by Kobe Bryant and his coach to be a bad game...Glad we got that cleared up.

Stuart Scott: “blah blah blah, Zen Master, blah blah, X-factor, blah blah, insert every big game cliché I've ever heard, blah blah.”

Jeff Van Gundy (JVG): “The key to everything is the versatility of Gasol and Odom.”

The National Anthem is performed by a seven-year-old girl whose name I won't even begin to try to spell.

The officials for this game include Joe Crawford and Derrick Stafford...I have a bad feeling about this.

First Quarter

11:37 Hedo Turkoglu draws front rim on his first shot. An omen of things to come?

11:03 Lakers switch on Rashard Lewis/Dwight Howard screen. Magic swing ball around for Lewis lay-in.

10:40 Pau Gasol blows by Lewis for dunk. The next possession brings Courtney Lee on a double-team.

9:52 Howard called for a goaltend. He is being very aggressive on defense. 6-2 Lakers lead.

8:22 As in first two games, Lakers mixing up defense on Howard. No surprise here, this game will come down to Magic shooting.

7:27 Trevor Ariza attacks rim and gets putback dunk on his own miss.

6:31 Lakers are still swarming Howard on defense.

6:11 Mark Jackson, “If they're going to leave you open, you have to score.”

5:40 Kobe gets on the board. He is the last Laker starter to score.

5:07 Kobe makes a 3. Lakers lead 17-13. Oh...and he has the scowl going.

During the first break, the Van Gundy's Dad informs us that, “Jeff was the better player.”

3:52 Rafer Alston makes a three-pointer, proving he has a pulse.

2:13 Mark Jackson, “SVG loves ball movement and man movement.”

1:25 We see the first appearance of the patented Kobe one-on-five offense...he drains a jumper in Hedo's face...and scowls.

Alston is playing well. He's flying the ball up court, looking to attack and making open jumpers. 27 all.
Tony Battie blocks Kobe shot out of bounds. Kobe takes the inbound pass, makes a three and gets fouled. Oh, and we have a D.J. Mbenga sighting.
We now have a Sasha Vujacic sighting as well. What the heck is going on? It doesn't matter anyway, as Kobe just shoots anyway.

End of first quarter: Lakers lead 31-27

Interview with Phil Jackson.

Q: “What was your reaction to Kobe's play?”

A: “He was good.”

11:27 Mickael Pietrus backs down Luke Walton, who has no chance.

10:58 Jameer Nelson takes seven steps on a drive to the hoop, then has the nerve to complain about the traveling call.

10:07 Vujacic flops and then stays on the ground trying to sell the call. This leads to a Magic fast break.

9:03 Mark Jackson: “give the ball to Howard when he's open.” Wow, that's deep.

8:18 Jordan Farmar is in the game, not afraid to shoot, making shots when he's open, being aggressive.

7:43 Andrew Bynum airballs a seven-footer. He is pressing badly.

6:57 Pietrus is literally inside Kobe's jersey and changing his underwear for him. Kobe still makes a three and has 20.

5:31 The Magic are 19-of-27 from the field. They still trail 46-45.

ABC plays a 10-year-old Green Day song (Hitchin' a ride) into the commercial break.

SVG (translated), “if he's (Kobe) shooting like this, we can't win.” Kobe scowls.

4:23 Alston already has 13 points on 5-of-5 shooting. Magic lead 49-48.

3:27 Mark Jackson, “he's like an adult playing against kids.”

2:25 Lewis gets an offensive rebound, but is then called for a charge.

2:10 Pietrus is defending Kobe as well as a human possibly can. Then he and Hedo both bite on a pump fake, sending him back to the line.

1:05 Lewis drains back-to-back threes heading to the half. Magic lead 59-54.

Magic are shooting 75 percent from the field, the best shooting half in Finals history. They have 17 team assists. This is as good as they can possibly play...and they only lead by five!

Third Quarter

11:51 The broadcast team can't get over how Brian Shaw's suit makes him look like Don Johnson (Miami Vice-era of course).

11:10 Gasol starts every half with a post up score over Lewis. Magic 61-56.

10:16 Ariza gets another putback on his own miss. A box-out, anyone?

9:21 The Lakers are playing from behind for the first time this series.

8:51 Courtney Lee makes a drive and a monster dunk on the baseline.

8:30 With the shot clock down to two seconds, Kobe draws a foul on Lee 24 feet away from the hoop. Kobe makes two of three from the line. Magic lead 65-61.

7:24 A big Ariza three stops the momentum. 65-64 Magic.

6:10 Ariza gets a putback on his own miss for the third time...this quarter!

5:54 Lee is getting under Kobe's skin. Kobe is now forcing it. He has one point so far in the quarter.

5:10 I'm pretty sure Howard has never seen a moving screen he couldn't set.

4:23 JVG correctly notes that Howard is bringing the ball down (and also dribbling) way too much, just giving away easy scores.

4:09 Kobe is just 4-of-8 from the free throw line.

3:18 Gasol jogs right down the middle of the court and takes a pass for an easy dunk. 73-68 Orlando.

2:28 A Lewis three makes it 77-69. All the Magic shots that didn't go down in the first two games are now falling.

2:11 SVG has finally figured out that Alston being in the game gives his team their best chance to win.

1:17 A Kobe three makes it 77-75 Magic. Kobe started 8-of-11 from the field, but is 1-of-9 since.

Battie is getting minutes ahead of Gortat.
17.8 Howard scores on a running jump hook, which is the only offensive move he has.

End of third quarter, Magic lead.

Doris Burke: “What is different tonight?”

SVG: “The ball is going in the basket.”

Wow, just wow.

Fourth Quarter

11:42 If Battie is going to keep making 16-foot jumpers, the Magic should definitely win.

10:05 Lamar Odom gets aggressive. Magic lead 85-79.

8:46 Magic lead 87-81. They look poised and ready to win this game. Some Lakers are pressing a bit, but on the whole they still look calm.

7:13 Kobe re-enters the game for the stretch run.

7:00 Odom scores his third straight hoop on the block and gets to the foul line again.

6:24 Hedo dares Ariza to shoot. Ariza buries a three. Magic 93-88. Mark Jackson rambles about “airspace control.”

6:10 Ariza flops on a Howard screen, but sells it well enough to get the call.

5:38 JVG: “You cannot reconfigure your game at this point in the year. You have to win or lose playing your game.”

5:21 A Derek Fisher three makes it a 95-93 game. The pressure shifts back to Orlando.

3:37 Kobe comes off a Gasol screen and makes an open jumper. 99-97 Orlando.

2:41 Kobe is still being patient, repeatedly giving Gasol the ball on the block. Gasol ties game at 99. Lakers are on a 17-8 run.

2:17 Pietrus gets a big dunk after a Hedo miss.

1:54 Alston attacks the rim and gets to the line. 102-99 Orlando lead.

1:38 Magic effectively double Kobe, who is bailed out by a whistle.

1:06 Lewis makes a jumper with the shot clock winding down (and his foot on the line).

Out of a timeout Kobe goes straight to the rim. Howard gets called for a foul on a clean block.

JVG: “The first thing you have to do is get the ball inbounds.”... really?

The Lakers get a stop on Lewis' baseline move.
Pietrus picks Kobe's pocket, gets fouled and makes the free throws. Magic lead 106-102.
Kobe forces and misses a three. He is two for his last 12.
After a series of three-point attempts (and no Orlando rebound), Kobe ends up with the ball and a put-in...he still has the scowl.

A personal foul needs to be called on the confetti-drop person, who delays the game several minutes.

Lewis' free throws close out the game and the Magic win 108-104.

The Magic basically played the absolute best game they are possibly capable of and still had to sweat it out until the buzzer in a game the Lakers easily could have mailed in.

That does not bode well for the rest of the series.

On the other hand, the Magic are only a Courtney Lee layup from leading two games to one. Game Four is Thursday.

The Lakers can still break the Magic's spirit with a win.

The Magic, on the other hand, can make it a whole new series.

This thing is far from over and I'll be here loving every second of it.

And that's how I saw it.

Despite Knee Injury, Rafael Nadal Will Play at Wimbledon

Jason Coldiron — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 19:33:49 -0400

Despite tendinitis, Rafael Nadal will play in the upcoming Wimbledon tennis event.

"I am going to give my 200 percent to be ready for the most important tournament in the world," Nadal said. "I will not go out and play, especially on the Wimbledon Centre Court, if I am not 100 percent ready to play.

"I have two difficult weeks ahead of me, especially because I won't be doing what I like doing most, which is to play tennis." (ESPN)

Nadal has opted for a course of physical therapy in preparation for the tournament.

"His treatment will involve oral anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy, as well as muscular exercises for both quadriceps," physical trainer Ruiz-Cotorro said.

Toronto Raptors Trade Kapono to 76ers for Evans

Jason Coldiron — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 19:22:12 -0400

Today the Toronto Raptors traded sharpshooter Jason Kapono to the Philadelphia 76ers for rebounding machine Reggie Evans.

Kapono, two-time winner of the NBA's Long Distance Shootout at All-Star Weekend and a career 45.4 percent marksman from three-point range was the shooter sought by the 76ers to give them the outside presence they have lacked since trading away Kyle Korver.

"We are very excited to add one of the league's most prolific three-point shooters in Jason Kapono," Sixers general manager Ed Stefanski said. "We feel that this move addresses our goal of improving our shooting from the perimeter. (ESPN)

The Raptors add, in Evans, a rebounder to help Chris Bosh and save 2.8 million in cap space.

"Reggie Evans will certainly add an element of toughness to our team," Raptors president Bryan Colangelo said in a statement Tuesday. "He has very good rebounding and defensive instincts, addressing two areas where we have underperformed." (ESPN)

This is the first formalized trade in what could be a busy and exciting offseason.

Villanova's Scottie Reynolds to Return for Senior Season

Jason Coldiron — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 16:58:59 -0400

Reports today are that Villanova Wildcat's Junior point guard Scotty Reynolds, who averaged 15.2 PPG this season, has withdrawn his name from the draft and will return for his senior season.

Reynolds had participated in seven pre-draft workouts.

"The best decision for me is to return to Villanova for my senior year," Reynolds said in a statement released by the school.

"I'd like to thank everyone who put their time into helping me get better during these NBA workouts. I especially want to thank my teammates and coaches here for all of their support.

"I felt like I learned a great deal from this process. I'm blessed to be in the situation I am in. I'm happy to be back at Villanova." (ESPN) Reynolds has excited with his performances in the last two postseasons.

Geoff Petrie Takes Active Role in Sacramento Kings Draft

Jason Coldiron — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 14:35:58 -0400

With three of the top 31 picks in the upcoming NBA draft, Kings general manager Geoff Petrie has decided to take an active, hands-on role in the workouts of potential draftees.

On Monday the Kings worked out six players who are expected to be in consideration when the Kings pick at No. 23 and No. 31.

Louisville swingman Terence Williams, North Carolina shooting guard Wayne Ellington, Florida point guard Nick Calathes, Connecticut point guard A.J Price, Missouri power forward DeMarre Carroll, and Texas power forward Damion Jones participated in the Monday workout.

It is unusual for a general manager to take such an active role in these types of workouts.

"It's very unique (to have an executive running a workout), because the GM is running it like he's an assistant coach or an intern," Williams said. "(Usually), you see the GMs in a pretty $10,000 suit, twirling their wedding band around and watching us while having a conversation on the side. This is the first time I'd seen something like that." (Sacramento Bee)

Ellington added, "I think it's definitely unique. Usually you have one of the assistant coaches running the workout and everybody else is watching, so it was good. It was hands on."

Also on hand playing active roles for the Kings were special assistant Shareef Abdur-Rahim, director of player development Fat Lever, and director of player personnel Jerry Reynolds.

There were also about a dozen other members of the organization in attendance, including Kings co-owner Gavin Maloof.

The Kings are still without a head coach, but Petrie said the decision would come “sooner rather than later.”

The three finalists for the position are Lakers assistant Kurt Rambis, former Phoenix and Seattle head coach Paul Westphal, and Boston associate head coach Tom Thibodeau.

Petrie said it was “unlikely” that any other candidates would be interviewed.