G.S. Warriors Try to Steal NBA Finals' Thunder: Mark Jackson Guarantees Playoff
With the NBA season coming to a much anticipated conclusion, the Golden State Warriors have surprisingly broke into the public eye.
When was the last time the Warriors were being discussed during the playoffs? And during the finals no less.
"Golden State Warriors: One win away from a championship," is probably what Warrior fans dream to hear at this time of year. However, the Warriors recent activity should excite the faithful.
Granted front office news is no equivalent to the news of confetti falling at Oracle Arena, but when major decisions are being made predicated on next season, before this season is even over, that’s a good sign.
It’s a sign that Peter Guber and Joe Jacob, co-owners of the Golden State Warriors, are completely focused on the future. The hiring of Jerry West in any capacity suggests a commitment to thinking basket ball and most importantly—WINNING!
Hiring West was ingenious, especially from a PR stand point. Who saw that coming? The hiring instantly created a flurry of reports, thrusting Golden State into a short-lived spotlight.
Immediately following the Jerry West hire, most were more interested in questioning West on his feelings towards the players and the lineup. Which was surprising in itself because the coaching position was still undetermined.
While many fans have been begging and pleading for true size in the front court, West delivered a side swipe by suggesting the back court, of Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis needed to get bigger. While I do agree with this assessment, I have to admit this was another brilliant PR move.
Instantly producing a "who’s going to get traded" rumor marathon—Curry or Ellis?
It's obvious Monta Ellis is the odd man out. Right now in the NBA, big two-guards are all the rage, and combo guards are becoming trade bait.
Ellis is an explosive scorer but what else can he do? The Warriors would have to find a team that is lacking in scoring punch in order to get what they think is fair value for Ellis.
There is not much demand for small combo guards who have no true position. Being that Ellis has not shown the ability to grasp the point guard position, he falls short of successful transitioning players like Gilbert Arenas.
To describe Ellis more accurately, he is like an upgraded version of Nate Robinson, but without the childish attitude and explosive hops.
And there in lies the dilemma. Trading Monta straight up is not going to be possible unless the participating team is so frustrated with a player they want to get rid of him. In order for the Warriors to get what they feel is fair value this trade will require another team or two and maybe even draft picks.
The decision to hire Mark Jackson as head coach is a guarantee that Curry stays. A point guard for 17 years in the NBA, coaching a team with a second-year point guard is ideal. Brilliant hire.
Defensive-minded Mark Jackson is most likely going to shore up the defensive side of the Warriors. During an interview with the Razor and Mr. T, when asked about Ellis’ defensive ability Mark Jackson responded, “ I can’t judge his [Monta Ellis’] defense...he [Monta Ellis] wasn’t asked to play any [defense]."
Jackson did give Monta a vote of confidence, sating he believed if you were to take Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade out the equation, he would put Monta up against any two-guard in the NBA. However, this statement in it self is telling.
How better to entice prospective trade partners then toting a not for sale sign. Jackson is simply going through the motions, which is the smartest thing he can do.
With the uncertainty of the CBA, Monta may very well be the Warriors primary scorer, at least until the trade deadline. Defusing this situation is Jackson’s first coaching move—you don’t want your lead man disgruntled.
Notes
Good news for Warrior fans, Mark Jackson has guaranteed a playoff run for the 2012 season.
Personally, I would shoot for a winning season.
