Interview with Rod and Larry

[Plowright]

I couldnt be bothered writing it all out so i just copied and pasted some the tweets from today. I like what im hearing tho!

The latest from #Bobcats (http://twitter.com/search?q=%23Bobcats) coach Larry Brown: ""I'm under contract and doing my job" Then declines to say definitively he'll be back

Perhaps more interesting and exciting! is...

GM Rod H iggins: leaning toward making qualifying offer to RFA Tyrus Thomas. Much less definitive on future of UFA Raymond Felton

GM Rod Higgins on Felton: "it's a different landscape than it was probably in July" when Felton turned down long-term deal


Higgins says #Bobcats (http://twitter.com/search?q=%23Bobcats) having "fruitful" discussions with teams holding mutiple 2nd rd picks.

Sounds like #Bobcats (http://twitter.com/search?q=%23Bobcats) will only trade into 1st round of draft if they unload payroll to do it. Very close to luxury tax

[bbh2020]

sounds like raymond is asking for too much money and they are going to let him see what's out there hoping noone will pay what he wants.


that's what i'm reading into it anyway.

[spectre]

Brown's status with Bobcats: 'I'm here, coaching' (http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/06/07/1484861/browns-status-with-bobcats-im.html)

[spectre]

sounds like raymond is asking for too much money and they are going to let him see what's out there hoping noone will pay what he wants.


that's what i'm reading into it anyway.


It sounds less certain whether point guard Raymond Felton – an unrestricted free agent next month – will be back. Higgins called Felton's status "a delicate subject."

"We've always expressed how much we liked Raymond, and like Raymond. But it’s a different landscape than it was probably in July," said Higgins.

"It's going to be dependent on a bunch of things ... Can you upgrade and improve? That's what you’re always trying to do. There are a lot of variables when you're talking about Raymond, not just for us but for him as well."

Higgins said NBA teams are being more frugal in regards to free-agency, in the face of the poor economy. But whether it's re-signing Felton or replacing him, the Bobcats have to add at least one point guard this summer

"No question – we only have one guy at the point-guard position (D.J. Augustin) and you’re not going to last in this business with only one point guard," Higgins said. "And Larry likes to have three."
From the above link.

I don't think anyone is against moving Felton if it's an upgrade. The problem is it's hard to see us being able to get said upgrade without killing another position.

[bbh2020]

agreed spectre.

i say we trade diaw for kirk hinrich and then sign a back up PF or give Lexy a shot.

let felton walk.

or we could go the sign and trade route with felton if he finds a deal he wants.

it would benefit both clubs to do this.

[Plowright]

I thought it was interesting that john schuman on nba.com they were discussing who each team should go after. It was about max agents however for about half the teams with large cap sapce e.g. miami and new york would also need a point guard. Schuman suggested Ray each time as he is the on " only real point guard out there" think its good that pundits are still seeing Ray as a relative free agent and he is not getting forgotton

[Scottley Crue]

agreed spectre.

i say we trade diaw for kirk hinrich and then sign a back up PF or give Lexy a shot.

let felton walk.

or we could go the sign and trade route with felton if he finds a deal he wants.

it would benefit both clubs to do this.
Though I'm not in love with Hinrich's contract, I'd liketo have him on the team if something with Felton can't be worked out (and moving Diaw allows for more help to found up front, if Chicago would go for it...Don't think they would, but who knows?). He's just the type of PG that I believe LB would love. Career-wise, his stats are similar to Felton's, but he's taller and could easily slide over to the 2 when DJ comes in, which I think could help DJ. Hinrich would be very nice alternative to Felton if things go sideways in contract talks.

[EvetsMorrison15]

it's black or white. Either Larry wants to be here or he doesn't. I'm sick of all these pretenders thinking that they're lives are so important to leave us in suspense. Then we just talk shit about it for 13 pages in these forums. Just fucking say it.

[Toocool]

I wouldn't mind trading Diaw for Cpt. Kirk. Means we would have 2 captains on this team though :biggrin:. But I like Cpt. Kirk, good 3-point shooter, very very solid defensively and a good BBIQ.

It's more whether Lexy is up to being able to fill in at the 4, with spurts of UPS and Crash.

[spectre]

"We've always expressed how much we liked Raymond, and like Raymond. But it’s a different landscape than it was probably in July," said Higgins.

"It's going to be dependent on a bunch of things ... Can you upgrade and improve? That's what you’re always trying to do. There are a lot of variables when you're talking about Raymond, not just for us but for him as well."

What's different between July last year and now? Felton actually got better...helped the team become tops in defense and improved his TOs, 2 shot and his 3 ball. My argument has always been that if you'd offer him 6/40 after a "bleh" season you'd most certainly offer it after a better year...and what's out there for "free" is still subpar to the status quo.

They have a trade in mind that they think will be an upgrade. There's no other explanation as I refuse to believe 4 games wiped out everything Felton's been able to accomplish this past season. Are we so upset about those games that we'd trade for a player who is WORSE on defense?

They also want a PF...and what trade almost went down at the deadline? Indiana, where they would get back TJ. Foster is also available and I know the FO has inquired about him before.

I have no problem with trading to upgrade the PG spot...but I have SERIOUS reservations about TJ being an upgrade. Why in the hell MJ has been so fascinated by him I have no idea.

[Ampsportsduo]

The more I listen to LB, the more I'm convinced that his reservations about being here next season have more to do with the roster than his family, another offer, etc.

At this point in his life, I don't think LB wants to start over with the PG position. I doubt we'll see him coach a team with DJ as the starter.

[spectre]

I still think he's just jerking Bonnell's chain, but you make a good point. Since we were so good defensively I imagine LB thought he was starting to get somewhere and just needed a tweak or two.

It's possible they have a better trade idea in mind, but you have to wonder what value we'd be giving up to get that improvement at the 1.

So much for giving them another year I guess.

[Muttley]

What's different between July last year and now? Felton actually got better...helped the team become tops in defense and improved his TOs, 2 shot and his 3 ball. My argument has always been that if you'd offer him 6/40 after a "bleh" season you'd most certainly offer it after a better year...and what's out there for "free" is still subpar to the status quo.
What's to say they haven't offered the same contract? Ray's agent might (justly) feel like he can get way more money elsewhere.

[spectre]

What's to say they haven't offered the same contract? Ray's agent might (justly) feel like he can get way more money elsewhere.

They can't; you aren't allowed to discuss contracts with a UFA or his agent until July 1st. Not saying they can't talk all around it and get an idea, but you have to be careful trying to play around with the rules like that.

Here's the AP article (is that Cranston?):

Brown allows rumors to swirl (http://www2.journalnow.com/content/2010/jun/08/brown-allows-rumors-to-swirl/sports-professional-basketball-bobcats/)


Higgins called point guard Raymond Felton's impending free agency a "delicate subject." Felton, the No. 5 pick in the 2005 draft, improved this season but struggled in the playoffs. Felton turned down a long-term deal last summer, and Charlotte is close to the luxury tax, a figure Jordan has said the Bobcats won't go over.

"We've always maintained an interest in Raymond, and we've always expressed how much we like Raymond," Higgins said. "But it's a different landscape than it was probably in July."I thought the "delicate subject" was an interesting way to put it.

Certainly sounds to me like they have a plan and that it's an upgrade...at least in their minds. That's the only thing I can figure with it being a "different landscape".

Remember Felton just switched agents too. Who knows what's up with that.

I keep flashing back to LB saying that he and MJ were giving each other high fives over the phone after they traded for Gana, telling each other that it should have happened a year earlier.

[SCBobcat]

Back on the Indiana thing--i don't think they want to use the 10th pick. That pick is almost certainly a 4/5 and Indy is loaded with good-mediocre 4/5s. They want a point guard. Bledsoe and Bradley and any other points can be had by trading back or trading out and buying a pick. Enter the Bobcats. Make that trade Spectre just mentioned and include the 10 pick. That would get us a point in TJ and a 4/5 at #10. Maybe we lose $3m so indy can buy back in, or we lose Hendo or Lex or something. I'm just spitballing here.

[murphman]

Little clues here and there do seem to hint that Larry is concerned about something and the PG situation looks to be the obvious reason. Quite a little game of poker we may have brewing here and the next 6-8 weeks could be very interesting on the trade/draft/free agency front.

[Muttley]

They can't; you aren't allowed to discuss contracts with a UFA or his agent until July 1st. Not saying they can't talk all around it and get an idea, but you have to be careful trying to play around with the rules like that.
Right. I forgot about that.

Well, it seems to me that roster moves always involve a good bit of posturing. With this franchise, in particular, we always learn a lot more about trades/signings after they do or do not go through than we do as the discussions are taking place.

Thought: What if LB's using this coaching thing as a smoke-screen to hide some major play that their making roster-wise behind the scenes. I already agree that he's having some fun with the media (or just doesn't want to make a big deal of it), but is it beyond him to be doing as a way to take attention away from free agent talk, etc?

[spectre]

I do think that if LB really wanted to keep Felton we would barring some ridiculous offer from another team. Even then we overpaid the heck out of Emeka when there were no other bidders just because LB said we didn't have a chance of making the playoffs without him.

IMO Jordan doesn't have the stones to buck something LB is set on...remember he deferred to him during the DJ draft when it was obvious that Lopez was "the talent that dropped".

Smoke? I wouldn't put it past him. Maybe we're trading for Billups and LB doesn't want it to get out?

Yeah...probably reaching on that last one.

[GoBobs]

I think it is more likely LB is trying to smokescreen other teams from paying attention to the guys we are working out. He strikes me as one of those guys that really loves the draft process esp finding that second round steal.

[teej]

I almost wonder if Rod and MJ are trying to drive Ray's value down? Heck, I'm so confused, I could wake up in three months and not be surprised by anything that happens. I think a lot depends on the Max FA's, and the trickle down defines Ray's market value.

And I wouldn't mind TJ Ford, just not if we overpay...like we almost did.

[Demon DeaCat]

Smoke? I wouldn't put it past him. Maybe we're trading for Billups and LB doesn't want it to get out?

Yeah...probably reaching on that last one.

I hope you're right about that. Billups would be the ideal acquisition. Upgrades us at PG while providing cap relief at just the right time.

[Toocool]

Really would love for LB to come back. Although crazy, very passionate. This video always makes me grin because LB taunts the ref.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDM2eGpf5Hc&feature=related

[EvetsMorrison15]

I love to hate Allen Iverson because I could honestly kick his ass in real life. I would punt him into the stands.

[spectre]

I love to hate Allen Iverson because I could honestly kick his ass in real life. I would punt him into the stands.

I wouldn't bet on that one. He's a little guy...but a lot of times that's the ones you have to look out for.

Sides...AI would probably just pop a cap in your ass vs. throwing down with ya.

[ohara831]

I wouldn't bet on that one. He's a little guy...but a lot of times that's the ones you have to look out for.

Sides...AI would probably just pop a cap in your ass vs. throwing down with ya.

Too funny! And you are right on. He wont waste time throwing punches. Just gets right to the heart of the matter.

[EvetsMorrison15]

he's too tiny to carry a gun that would do any damage. it would be like being shot with a G.I. Joe gun. I would end up laughing

[spectre]

he's too tiny to carry a gun that would do any damage. it would be like being shot with a G.I. Joe gun. I would end up laughing

True, but remember...AI has a "posse".

He'd be like Scarface. "I'm not going to kill you. Manny, shoot that mofo".

[Toocool]

You're saying AI is tiny? Are you kidding me? Unless you're like 6 foot 10, AI isn't tiny. The chap is 6 foot.

[teej]

You're saying AI is tiny? Are you kidding me? Unless you're like 6 foot 10, AI isn't tiny. The chap is 6 foot.

And I'm 7'5.

He's maybeeee 5'10.

[EvetsMorrison15]

Posse? huh...I don't wanna say he's half a man or anything... sorry zig. I take full credit for detouring this thread but shit man, Iverson pisses me off.

[GoBobs]

If we are working on a point guard trade I bet it is Parker we are going after.

[Toocool]

And I'm 7'5.

He's maybeeee 5'10.

If you're 7'5 I'm Yao Ming.

[murphman]

If we are working on a point guard trade I bet it is Parker we are going after.

I'm leaning towards Andre Miller

[spectre]

What do you guys think it would cost us to get either of those guys?

Remember that Parker would only be a 1 year rental unless we're prepared to give him a Max deal (or close to it) next season.

Not saying I wouldn't like both those guys...but acquiring either won't be cheap.

[murphman]

Miller is 35 and was signed (at the age of 33 or 34) for a three year deal at 7.5 per. Yes, he played lights out towards the end of the season but many of those games were when Roy was injured so somebody had to step up and score. Felton will probably get a contract in the 8.5 to 10 million per (or higher). I think a sign and trade is very possible with Portland IF they are interested in Raymond.

[DY_nasty]

Going from Felton to Miller is a lateral move if I've ever seen one. Yeah, Andre is consistent and able to score, but at his price and his age... no thanks. Plus he can't shoot either. I'm sure he benefited in Portland by having a team full or jumpshooters, but here? We'd be looking at an older version of Felton.

I'd rather keep Ray than pay 7+ for Andre for two seasons.

[murphman]

Going from Felton to Miller is a lateral move if I've ever seen one. Yeah, Andre is consistent and able to score, but at his price and his age... no thanks. Plus he can't shoot either. I'm sure he benefited in Portland by having a team full or jumpshooters, but here? We'd be looking at an older version of Felton.

I'd rather keep Ray than pay 7+ for Andre for two seasons.

One season perhaps. His last year is a team option. Plus his contract is decent trade bait. As I have stated before, Andre would be simply a stop gap for this next season mainly because of the cap situation this team is facing.

[teej]

Getting Andre would put us in better position to get CP3, since his option would take us through until CP can opt out. S&T Ray for Miller and have them draft for us at pick 44. I'd do that.

[spectre]

Why would Portland trade out Miller for Felton, esp. after his play in the latter part of the season? You guys do know that Portland was actually considering signing Felton with their space last year (don't know how serious they were) but opted for Miller instead.

FWIW I do think he would be an adequate replacement short term....I just question the cost of getting him.

[DY_nasty]

One season perhaps. His last year is a team option. Plus his contract is decent trade bait. As I have stated before, Andre would be simply a stop gap for this next season mainly because of the cap situation this team is facing.
I keep forgetting about his team option.

In that case, I'm all for it as opposed to letting Felton walk for nothing. But I doubt we'd be able to get a pick out of them. I'd really like to get Mills from Portland too...

[teej]

Why would Portland trade out Miller for Felton, esp. after his play in the latter part of the season? You guys do know that Portland was actually considering signing Felton with their space last year (don't know how serious they were) but opted for Miller instead.

I think that's because Ray wanted more than 3/21 like Dre.

[spectre]

I think that's because Ray wanted more than 3/21 like Dre.

No doubt. So why would they want to pay it now?

That all goes back to whether his stock has dropped and just how much after a very good season and then a poor final 4 games.

Let's not forget also that Felton is a UFA and he has to agree to to go and for the amount. With all the teams having space already I'm not sure he's definitely going to need a S&T to get his money.

Even with the above I'm still not convinced he's going to get that much (8-10). Someone might overpay him, but it all depends on how the other FAs fall out and the needs of who's left.