Okafor...

[amour217]

I think we can all agree on this: so far during his tenure with the Bobcats, Emeka Okafor has been consistent....consistently giving us fits.

Tonight, Okafor - our #2, highest draft pick in team history - matched up against undrafted Earl Barron (who?!) and put up a whopping 6 points and 8 boards to Barron's 8 points and 8 boards. Okafor should've been completely dominant not only on the boards, but offensively as well. The same can be said about our last game as well. Thank God Nazr played big tonight, or our bigs would've looked shameful against a team on its last legs.

So here's the deal, let's put it all out there: what do we do with Okafor? Do we let him walk? Re-sign him on the cheap considering his lack of oomph? Or do we look into a sign-and-trade? And if we do let him walk, what direction does our team go from there?

Discuss...

[Keetch]

It all depends on who our next coach is. If we keep Vincent and his Mokeski side-kick; then we might as well trade Okafor.

If we don't trade him; he won't sign anyway except for one year. Then ultimately its not up to the Bobcats. Okafor is moving on; he obviously doesn't wish to play here.

Our team leadership is poor.

[ohara831]

We lucked up he did not take the $13 mil/yr offer. But his ego want let him take anything less, or at least not enough of a reduction to make it worth our time.

Only real option is a sign and trade. Since we cannot do anything before the draft, our only option is to so it afterwards. I do not know if we can have an "agreement' in place at the draft with a team telling them to pick a certain person and then we will do the sign and trade. Maybe it is for.... oh, who knows! I'm just pissed they did not do something before the trade deadline.

I hope all those who posted how we'd be crazy to trade Okafor and that he is worth the money enjoy his play. Get a real good eyeful of his mediocrity and enjoy how he is wasting our time and money when we could have and should have moved him a couple months ago. A defensive presence? Bullcrap! He can put up a consistent double double if you are allowed to add back to back games. God, our only hope is that no one watches our games as much as we do and they dont realize just how mediocre he really is as a player. Maybe we'll still get a pretty good deal. At this stage, I'd trade him to NY for Zach Randolph even tho he is a head case and a prima donna. At least he is a consistent good double double. Maybe we can get Hollins to be our "trouble shooter" who will crack his knees with a lead pipe if he shows his ass and maybe we get him on his good behavior! Attitude aside, Randolph does not quite have Okafor's Defense (of which I am more and more convinced is not so good anyway), but I think Randolph's offense is much better! If we could somehow get Crawford in the deal for someone like Carroll and May, I'd be ecstatic! Hell, I might even be erotic! Whoopie!!

[dnbman]

Like Keetch said, Okafor will be as valuable as his leadership.

I'm very curious how Okafor is coached within the framework of the team on both sides of the court.

On a sidenote, I actually think Okafor would be playing much better ball had he signed the deal. He would have known that he's hear for an extended period of time and work hard to make the best of it. Now, I think he plays with a lack of passion because he feels he's in a situation where he can't be successful and likely wont' be around.

Don't get me wrong: I understand the flaws of the mindset. I just think that's where he's at right now.

[tamburello]

Ohara, I understand you're so pissed at Okafor. As well as I am. But the board has to behave calm and logical.

There is definitely something between coach and Oak. In last 3 games, he played 22, 21 and 23 minutes, respectively. He wasn't in foul trouble. He took 6, 1(?), 6 shots. He grabbed 6, 3, 8 rebounds.

I don't know, but I guess we're being a little bit unfair to him. Although I believe we should s&t him, we have to weigh all options. I'm sure we won't give him 65 million any more.

If there are any teams willing to get him, and also if Oak wants to go, we'll probably get very little in exchange for him (may be only a 1st rounder or 1st rounder+one player). We have to think about all these.

[spectre]

Vincent alluded to benching Mek in his pregame last night...saying guys have to earn their PT. Last night I thought he was doing ok (vs. the Pacers game) but he still sat the 4th quarter.

Not signing a deal affected Deng & Gordon so I have to think it's affected Mek too. Plus, I think that "episode" where Bonnell mentioned Mek clashing with Vincent at the beginning of the year might still be unresolved.

Yah...agreed with you guys; if Vincent is still here Mek is gone. Damn shame as most of us can see what the big dude can do if he brings it...it just takes something big for that to happen. If MJ does the right thing and axes Vincent hopefully Mek will consent to a deal like Crash did; a 2 or 3 yr deal at around 9 to "prove" he can be what we need.

I still think we can get something good out of him, but if we don't watch out we're going to create an almost unstoppable front line somewhere. Bosh + Mek would be scary.

[dnbman]

I still think we can get something good out of him, but if we don't watch out we're going to create an almost unstoppable front line somewhere. Bosh + Mek would be scary.


That's my concern with both Felton and Okafor: they're going to be amazing when properly coached in a good team system.

Of course, if we don't change the coach and the system, there's no point in continually trying to put a square peg in a round hole.

[ohara831]

What I cannot get through my thick head it this one aspect of it all with Okafor. Does he have any idea at all just how much money he has cost himself? Even if he is pissed off with the Coach, or does not understand the system of the Coach, or is unhappy with being offered only $13 mil/yr - you have to go all out to prove yourself to not only YOUR teamm but everyone else, just in case you do become that FA that everyone wants and will pay top $ for to have come play for them. When you mope around, dont play with any enthusiasm, and play so half heartedly that you get outplayed by journeymen, PEOPLE NOTICE!

My guess is that he has seen his value drop to somewhere in the max range of $10 mil/yr. Considering he had an offer of $13 mil, that is a difference there of $15 -$18 mil with Charlotte's offer last yr. Had he played his butt off, he could have bumped the number to $14 or maybe $15 mil/yr. In other words, his loss of revenue can be seen as likely anywhere from a minimum of $15 mil to maybe $30 mil! That is a ton of security just flushed down the toilet.

I dont care what the issue he may have with Coach or mgmnt. If that much $ is on the line for my financial 6 yr future and my family's financial future, I'm out there busting my butt EVERY SINGLE GAME. When my time is up in Charlotte, I go to the highest bidder. I just wonder does he truly realize how much $ he has lost? And if he does, and he is holding a grudge against us and not playing so hard so he wont get hurt, then we have to realize there is no way in hell he stays here with us. Would you rather get one yr from him and then let him walk for nothing? No, we have no options now but to find a way to move him for the best we can get. It will not be a #2 pick in the first round, but you get what you can and cut your losses at this stage.

I absolutely just cannot understand someone taking this mindset as he has and just throwing it all away. It reminds me of the Ricky Williams saga in the NFL. So much talent, but he'd rather puff a joint. I'm not saying Okafor has that issue, I'm just saying that the mindset issue is just baffling to me. I think that if any of us had the talent to make $13 mil a yr for 6 yrs for playing a game we all loved to play on the hardcourt tops on playgrounds, I bet there is not a single one of us who would not be out there busting it all day long, practicing 4 hours every day to get better and prove ourselves; and laying it on the line EVERY SINGLE GAME!

Winning is a mindset! Crying, moping, whining and playing a victim - that is for Losers. Okafor, take your ball and go home - Loser.

[MattD]

Please guys, I am with Vincent on this one.

In the NBA if you dont work hard, you get no where.

Okafor doesnt work hard for this team, he doesnt have the right mental state, whatever. He isnt good. He hurts us. I have said this about 1,000,000 times. I dont care if he does or doesnt like Vincent, he still needs to work hard.

Free Agency is going to be a bitch for players looking for max contracts this summer, there are only going to be something like 3 teams that could do it.

I dont want him back, he basically has said his interests are more important then the teams by playing the way he does.

If he plays great somewhere else, then super, but he has not, and seems like he will not play well for us. So why would we resign him to a dooming contract? I wouldnt.

I first noticed the tension when Okafor sat out the fourth quarter comeback against the Jazz a while ago. I made the Emeka who? thread. I am still with what I said.

He wouldnt be part of my franchises future... did you guys ever think maybe he declined the 13 million offer not because it wasnt enough money, but because he doesnt want to be stuck here for another 6 years? We need to move on without him, he can move on without us.

Hes not a restricted FA so we cannot necessarily do a sign and trade, he could just decline our offer. Okafor is very smart, but I would be surprised if he is in a Bobcats uniform next year, even if or if not Vincent is on the bench.

[ohara831]

Please guys, I am with Vincent on this one.

In the NBA if you dont work hard, you get no where.

Okafor doesnt work hard for this team, he doesnt have the right mental state, whatever. He isnt good. He hurts us. I have said this about 1,000,000 times. I dont care if he does or doesnt like Vincent, he still needs to work hard.

Free Agency is going to be a bitch for players looking for max contracts this summer, there are only going to be something like 3 teams that could do it.

I dont want him back, he basically has said his interests are more important then the teams by playing the way he does.

If he plays great somewhere else, then super, but he has not, and seems like he will not play well for us. So why would we resign him to a dooming contract? I wouldnt.

I first noticed the tension when Okafor sat out the fourth quarter comeback against the Jazz a while ago. I made the Emeka who? thread. I am still with what I said.

He wouldnt be part of my franchises future... did you guys ever think maybe he declined the 13 million offer not because it wasnt enough money, but because he doesnt want to be stuck here for another 6 years? We need to move on without him, he can move on without us.

Hes not a restricted FA so we cannot necessarily do a sign and trade, he could just decline our offer. Okafor is very smart, but I would be surprised if he is in a Bobcats uniform next year, even if or if not Vincent is on the bench.


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Very well said! Very very well said and thought out! Rep 1

[amour217]

So what happens if we ax El Biscuit, get a new coach/system, then convince Okafor to re-sign and he's still Mr. Mediocre?

There's a ton of questions surrounding Okafor in terms of this team's future

[Icky Thump]

I think what is so frustrating to most of us is that we realize that Okafor has talent but it appears that for some selfish reasons he chooses not to play to his ability for our team. It's not just coaching thats causing him problems on the court.. its a lack of energy and effort mainly. Whether it's because he hates Vincent, only wants to play for an established team, or whatever issues he can come up with he chooses not to even work for a possible nice payday for himself. He would rather play like crap hurting himself and us.... thats pretty stupid and its not something we need around.

As I've said for sometime we need to take whatever avenue we can at this point to get something in return for him.

[ohara831]

So what happens if we ax El Biscuit, get a new coach/system, then convince Okafor to re-sign and he's still Mr. Mediocre?

There's a ton of questions surrounding Okafor in terms of this team's future
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Exactly!! And most people are not watching the Bobcats, just those of us who are diehard fans. We know what he is playing like, but others dont. The concensus around the league is he is still a big time asset, and brings far more value than Crash. Personally, I think Crash brings a lot more to the table than Okafor. But if people like Okafor, let's let them have him for the highest price we can get. Then, we take that Player/Draft pick and make the most of it. After they get Okafor and see him play for a few weeks, they will see he is not all he has been cracked up to be. By then, it is too late for them and we have a new, improved team.

[MattD]

So what happens if we ax El Biscuit, get a new coach/system, then convince Okafor to re-sign and he's still Mr. Mediocre?

There's a ton of questions surrounding Okafor in terms of this team's future


my point... we let him go no matter. If or if not Vincent is here. He has basically slapped the fans and the team in the face with his attitude. If he plays better somewhere else, who cares, because he wasnt going to play well here. No reason to doom our team to okafor for 6 years.

At some point I said I felt bad for him because of Vincent, but look how Jrich, Wallace, and the rest of the team play through Vincent. They still play hard.

Bye bye Okafor, I dont think he wants to be part of this teams future, or at least thats what his behavior/contract decisions have shown.

[Keetch]

Dnbman & Spectre: As you suggest, it's likely that Okafor's problem isn't just with Vincent. His malaise seems too deep for that. I've been thinking that its Vincent and something unknown going on in management as well, that he just fundamentally doesn't respect. I can understand being trapped in an environment so bad that your motivation is lost. Its beyond money on that level. The money will come anyway, but the environment has to be right first.

So fine for Okafor, he can move on. The more disturbing thing to me though, as I stare at next year's season ticket package sitting on the table, is what am I buying? The right to see a bunch of creeps try to build a team? I hope not. Whatever Emeka's issues are, I hope they're not indicative of something really sick with this organization. That would be ashame, because I've really enjoyed watching the NBA in Charlotte again.

This harps back to last fall when John Delong of the Winston-Salem Journal (who used to be an AWESOME beat reporter for the Hornets) wrote an article basically condemning the Bobcats as a franchise that could not succeed, due to inherent but unspecified issues. He painted a pretty bleak picture, but it was so vague that, at the time, I shrugged it off. Now I don't know. None of us do I guess.

[amour217]

Back when I lived in CT, I got to watch Okafor dominate in college all the time. But here's where the trouble was: he often "dominated" offensively on put-backs or just being bigger/stronger than Podunk State's center. I knew he could board, I knew he could defend...but I also knew he was very limited offensively, almost ugly offensively.

When I came down to Charlotte, I saw the same stuff: good rebounding, that same hideous hook shot. But as other posters have stated, even though Sam Vincent is abhorrent as a coach, the players still play VERY hard, a la J-Rich and Crash, and even Dudley, when he gets PT. But Okafor sometimes gets lost in the shuffle, and often looks like he doesn't care or isn't trying. I look at the box scores in some games and it leaves me scratching my head.

I say let him go: if he goes to another team with another coach and is a beast, then great, blame the 'Cats system/management 100%...but if he goes and is still wishy-washy, then we did the right thing. If we can somehow get something in return for him, we at least have a chance of getting SOMETHING. You never know where you can strike gold...but in my opinion, the Okafor experiment is over. In fact, I saw his jersey for $9.99 at Belk the other day...even THEY know something

[ohara831]

Dnbman & Spectre: As you suggest, it's likely that Okafor's problem isn't just with Vincent. His malaise seems too deep for that. I've been thinking that its Vincent and something unknown going on in management as well, that he just fundamentally doesn't respect. I can understand being trapped in an environment so bad that your motivation is lost. Its beyond money on that level. The money will come anyway, but the environment has to be right first.

So fine for Okafor, he can move on. The more disturbing thing to me though, as I stare at next year's season ticket package sitting on the table, is what am I buying? The right to see a bunch of creeps try to build a team? I hope not. Whatever Emeka's issues are, I hope they're not indicative of something really sick with this organization. That would be ashame, because I've really enjoyed watching the NBA in Charlotte again.

This harps back to last fall when John Delong of the Winston-Salem Journal (who used to be an AWESOME beat reporter for the Hornets) wrote an article basically condemning the Bobcats as a franchise that could not succeed, due to inherent but unspecified issues. He painted a pretty bleak picture, but it was so vague that, at the time, I shrugged it off. Now I don't know. None of us do I guess.
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That is a deeply disturbing and brilliant Post. Honestly, the most I have ever feared in the organization was ineptitude. When I think of something like you are describing, I think of the NY Knicks organization. Now that is a creepy buch of guys who are just sexist and stupid. I hope that the worst we have to fear is someone's incompetence. That can be corrected. Hopefully, we bring in someone with the knowledge to how to correctly build a team. I am happy with what we did last year, so maybe, just maybe, we can have another successful draft, and not repeat prior mistakes. A good set of decisions and Draft this yr, and I will be happy with the management and give them credit for learning from their prior mistakes.

[tamburello]

We've lost nothing, only a season. It doesn't matter it's because of Vincent or Okafor or someone else. If we can send Okafor somewhere else for a reasonable offer (or for nothing, doesn't matter), we can still go on building. I don't want to use the term "re-building" since I believe we've never finished building.

[ziggy]

did you guys ever think maybe he declined the 13 million offer not because it wasnt enough money, but because he doesnt want to be stuck here for another 6 years?

I believe that the possibility of that being true is higher than we all think.

[Chef]

bad attitude or not, i have written many times (well not that many, but the majority of my posts are about him) oak has an absolutely horrid offensive game. put backs aside, he can not score. he has no concept of a pivot foot, he plays absolutely petrified against anyone his size or taller, he has no jumper. the only way to keep him is if we get a scoring center who is the focal point of the post play. he could just clean boards and play defense keeping the center out of foul trouble. unfortunately, a scoring center like shaq, kareem, howard, are very rare and virtually impossible to get through FA. therefore, he needs to go. a good defensive 4 with no post game is just not a cornerstone of a championship franchise. the only one that i can think of is rodman, but his teams were much different than the current make-up of ours, so if cleveland is not willing to give us lebron or the lakers will give up kobe i say get rid of oak.

[MattD]

a good defensive 4 with no post game is just not a cornerstone of a championship franchise. the only one that i can think of is rodman, but his teams were much different than the current make-up of ours, so if cleveland is not willing to give us lebron or the lakers will give up kobe i say get rid of oak.


I completely disagree. A good defensive 4 with no post game could very well be part of a championship team. The key is he has to be good on defense and work hard and want to win etc, etc.

Thats not Okafor.

Also I think Okafor is decent from the block. Doesnt have a jumper, but he is decent. Seriously, everyone thought Okafor was going #1 and was the best player in the draft. He won ROY.

Im not mad we picked him or anything, it was the absolute right move, but its probably time to let him go, I think the feeling is probably mutual though...

[Icky Thump]

Really pisses me off that we are gonna lose the equity of having a #2 draft pick because he doesn't want to give the effort of playing for us. At this point it looks like unless some miracle happens we'll have to let him go for nothing.

[Chef]

i didn't say part of a championship team, my point was that to pay mek what he wants makes him a franchise guy. he is not a franchise guy. just a question (not rhetorical) in the last 10 seasons aside from the cavs last year, has there been a team in the conference champ without a scoring 4. they can't count if they have a dominant offensive center and a non-scoring 4. i can't think of one.

[MattD]

just a question (not rhetorical) in the last 10 seasons aside from the cavs last year, has there been a team in the conference champ without a scoring 4. they can't count if they have a dominant offensive center and a non-scoring 4. i can't think of one.


So lets clarify... Your saying a championship team must have an inside scorer. Thats generally true, but not always. Have a diverse group of wings, say an MJ with a Pippen and a Kukoc, with a distributor PG and you can win. The 72-10 Bulls had only three players who scored above 10ppg along with a topped out 5.9 Assists per game. And there "inside man" only scored 9 ppg and had 5 rebounds per game.

Different winning formula's are made in different ways.

[BIGCatBobcat]

I'd like to hear from Emeka himself. I think it's sad that we don't have a beat writer or a good tv guy that will sit down with him, maybe even ambush him in the locker room after a bad game and say "Mek, it looks like you're out of sync with the team, what's the deal?" There are some really good writers out there that would rather talk spring football than go to a Bobcats game.

I know I sound like a pathetic Bobcats homer, but I was just getting out on my own when they started. I was over the Hornets and so ready to get behind a new team and Emeka was the face of the team. I remember Okafor in 04 fondly, Got Mek? and the videos of him walking around in the shell of the new arena.

I'm sorry but I have to hear it from him. I am not watching Emeka every night and saying this guy has quit on the Bobcats. I think he's tired, I think he's beat down. I think he's disillusioned with the coaching staff. I think he needs a change of scenery and I think that can happen in Charlotte.

[TheBeagle]

So fine for Okafor, he can move on. The more disturbing thing to me though, as I stare at next year's season ticket package sitting on the table, is what am I buying? The right to see a bunch of creeps try to build a team? I hope not. Whatever Emeka's issues are, I hope they're not indicative of something really sick with this organization. That would be ashame, because I've really enjoyed watching the NBA in Charlotte again.

This harps back to last fall when John Delong of the Winston-Salem Journal (who used to be an AWESOME beat reporter for the Hornets) wrote an article basically condemning the Bobcats as a franchise that could not succeed, due to inherent but unspecified issues. He painted a pretty bleak picture, but it was so vague that, at the time, I shrugged it off. Now I don't know. None of us do I guess.
You read my mind, Keetch. I've been thinking the exact same thing the last couple of weeks. Especially when I emailed Delong soon after that article came out, and he said he would like to be wrong about the dismal future of this franchise, but that there are some behind-the-scenes things going on that lead him to that conclusion. Also, he was on Mark Packer's radio show in Charlotte a couple weeks back and condemned Bob Johnson for not having any zeal in trying to build a championship team...basically, mediocrity is his ultimate goal, a la Donald Sterling of the Clippers, and if they happen to make the playoffs, it's just a matter of serendipity.

On another thread, which one, I don't remember, I gave my opinion of what the future holds, and it is in line with Delong's to some degree. "Coach" will be our coach; Mek will try to be re-signed, if not, then he walks and we get nothing; our only upgrades will be via our 1st and 2nd round draft picks, with the addition of role players in the mold of DA and McInnis and Boykins, nothing flashy by any means. For management, the core of this team is set with JRich, GW, Raymond, Mek (if re-signed), Nazr, and a returning Ammo with "coach" at the helm for the foreseeable future. Judging by the "feel" I've been getting from some people, I think this is a realist perspective, however pesimmistic it may come across. The fact is, I think we were unfortunately stuck with a dud of an owner, and until he gets bored of this little hobby of having an NBA team, we're lucky to ever get 40 wins in a season.

I'll try to get some answers out of John, and see what's going on...... :g:

[spectre]

TheBeagle...wasn't trading for Swish going against what you're saying DeLong insinuated? No way did we have to do that as I doubt anyone would have complained with keeping Wright at 8th.

[ohara831]

TheBeagle...wasn't trading for Swish going against what you're saying DeLong insinuated? No way did we have to do that as I doubt anyone would have complained with keeping Wright at 8th.
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That is what I was thinking. Paying Gerald a long term Contract, same with Carroll, and trading for the Nazr Contract. You can questions whether these moves were "smart" moves, but they are spending and investing, which kinda goes against what DeLong was saying. (Crash's Contract was smart, but we overpaid with Carroll and Nazr is a lot of money invested and he has to be a consistent double double to make it worth while. Jury still out on that one.)

[dnbman]

TheBeagle...wasn't trading for Swish going against what you're saying DeLong insinuated? No way did we have to do that as I doubt anyone would have complained with keeping Wright at 8th.
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That is what I was thinking. Paying Gerald a long term Contract, same with Carroll, and trading for the Nazr Contract. You can questions whether these moves were "smart" moves, but they are spending and investing, which kinda goes against what DeLong was saying. (Crash's Contract was smart, but we overpaid with Carroll and Nazr is a lot of money invested and he has to be a consistent double double to make it worth while. Jury still out on that one.)


Yeah, the Carroll contract alone is far bigger than anything the Clippers did prior to the season they signed Brand and re-upped Maggette. I don't think we're in that situation, although, BJ may be a "don't get me anywhere near the luxury tax" type owner. Of course, most owners in the NBA are the same way.

[Keetch]

I've been thinking as well along the lines of BIGCatBobcat's post and wondering if maybe Emeka is just wore out, both physically and mentally.

I can't agree enough with his point about "lets hear it from Emeka," but unfortunately nobody seems able to ask any meaningful questions.

Beagle, I think the hope against Bob Johnson's passivity has to be Michael Jordan and his passion for winning. There's hope I guess.

[TheBeagle]

TheBeagle...wasn't trading for Swish going against what you're saying DeLong insinuated? No way did we have to do that as I doubt anyone would have complained with keeping Wright at 8th.
Well, the allusion to Sterling had less to do with how personnel decision are made (we re-signed GW and Matt, instead of letting them walk and getting a roster full of rookie contracts which was the Clippers m.o. there for a long while) and more to do with the attitude of the owner. I do think Bob has a greater desire to field a winning team than Sterling, and is not quite the rapacious capitalist that Sterling is (i.e. very reasonable ticket prices for Cats games), but this is just another business venture to him, and is nothing more than a side project than an actual job (which is the impression I get of MJ as well).

I just want to warn you that, love 'em or hate 'em, this is likely the core of the team for the next few years, and that significant changes (regardless of win/loss records) are very unlikely. That said, the most significant change that needs to be made is with our "coach," and the fact that he has only one year remaining on his contract after this makes that change more likely....and that is definitely a good thing!

***********

As far as Emeka: the guy is a tough nut to crack. I have no clue what's going on with him. My initial reaction is to say he is too much an intellectual, and not enough of a competitor; that is, he should probably be putting is business degree to use, which he earned in 3 years, and go to work in a suit instead of a jersey. Now, if he gets with the right team/coach, this could change, but that's what I think is going on with the guy. I think somewhere in his locker he has the bumper sticker "I'd rather be reading." Like a lot of today's twentysomethings, he needs to decide what he wants to do with his life...

[Keetch]

Maybe its all just a matter of perspective. Here is a link that can perhaps help us understand Okafor's.

http://www.onemillionafricanlives.org

Maybe this is the biggest reason that Emeka should be a Bobcat.

[dnbman]

As far as Emeka: the guy is a tough nut to crack. I have no clue what's going on with him. My initial reaction is to say he is too much an intellectual, and not enough of a competitor; that is, he should probably be putting is business degree to use, which he earned in 3 years, and go to work in a suit instead of a jersey. Now, if he gets with the right team/coach, this could change, but that's what I think is going on with the guy. I think somewhere in his locker he has the bumper sticker "I'd rather be reading." Like a lot of today's twentysomethings, he needs to decide what he wants to do with his life...


Fair enough. But, don't you get the sense that Okafor wants to be a strong contributor on a solid team? I don't think it's a case of basketball vs. ______. I think it's a case of basketball the way this team is being run vs. _______.

[davcbow]

As far as Emeka: the guy is a tough nut to crack. I have no clue what's going on with him. My initial reaction is to say he is too much an intellectual, and not enough of a competitor; that is, he should probably be putting is business degree to use, which he earned in 3 years, and go to work in a suit instead of a jersey. Now, if he gets with the right team/coach, this could change, but that's what I think is going on with the guy. I think somewhere in his locker he has the bumper sticker "I'd rather be reading." Like a lot of today's twentysomethings, he needs to decide what he wants to do with his life...


Fair enough. But, don't you get the sense that Okafor wants to be a strong contributor on a solid team? I don't think it's a case of basketball vs. ______. I think it's a case of basketball the way this team is being run vs. _______.


I think it all has to do with the coach. I dont think a uninjured player will just get bad all a sudden for no apparent reason..... :g:

[WarioVsMooChicken]

As far as Emeka: the guy is a tough nut to crack. I have no clue what's going on with him. My initial reaction is to say he is too much an intellectual, and not enough of a competitor; that is, he should probably be putting is business degree to use, which he earned in 3 years, and go to work in a suit instead of a jersey. Now, if he gets with the right team/coach, this could change, but that's what I think is going on with the guy. I think somewhere in his locker he has the bumper sticker "I'd rather be reading." Like a lot of today's twentysomethings, he needs to decide what he wants to do with his life...


Fair enough. But, don't you get the sense that Okafor wants to be a strong contributor on a solid team? I don't think it's a case of basketball vs. ______. I think it's a case of basketball the way this team is being run vs. _______.


I think it all has to do with the coach. I dont think a uninjured player will just get bad all a sudden for no apparent reason..... :g:


Maybe he has Julius Peppers syndrome.

[TheBeagle]

Fair enough. But, don't you get the sense that Okafor wants to be a strong contributor on a solid team? I don't think it's a case of basketball vs. ______. I think it's a case of basketball the way this team is being run vs. _______.
To be completely honest, I don't really get that sense. He's incredibly enigmatic.....from being the posterchild of this franchise to getting no quotes, no soundbytes, no videos on bobcats.com, nada. On the other hand, I did allow that with another team or coach, his performance/enthusiasm could change, but there has never been any consistent evidence that shows me Mek wants to be a strong contributor for a solid team.

Whatever happens, I wish him the best. If he chooses not to re-sign with us, there's going to be much more in the way of melancholy for me, than jubilation, that's for sure. He seems like a nice guy and has the potential to be a beast inside but.......

[timang]

...we are all left hanging by oak and the management.

[Slam]

I think somewhere in his locker he has the bumper sticker "I'd rather be reading."

----------------------------

I have to admit, I've thought this for a while. I've long held the idea that EO50 could walk away from basketball tomorrow and be ok with that.

I sort of feel he has a bigger calling in life - and he knows that.

[ohara831]

I think we are getting way too philisophical with Okafor. I think this is all about money and where he wants to play the next several years.

Somewhere in this Thread earlier, it was suggested that perhaps the Okafor refusal to sign for $13 mil was more about Okafor just being unsure of whether he wanted to play in Charlotte or not. I think that was exactly it. This had nothing to do with him wanting to show he was worth more, as they publicly stated. I think he was giving the team a year to prove to him that they were moving in the right direction before he committed to them for 5-6 more years. I think he is unhappy with their choice of Coach and the team philosophy and is likely making it known he is planning to go.

[dnbman]

I think we are getting way too philisophical with Okafor. I think this is all about money and where he wants to play the next several years.

Somewhere in this Thread earlier, it was suggested that perhaps the Okafor refusal to sign for $13 mil was more about Okafor just being unsure of whether he wanted to play in Charlotte or not. I think that was exactly it. This had nothing to do with him wanting to show he was worth more, as they publicly stated. I think he was giving the team a year to prove to him that they were moving in the right direction before he committed to them for 5-6 more years. I think he is unhappy with their choice of Coach and the team philosophy and is likely making it known he is planning to go.



Let's it put it this way: if he wants to go, let him. As I've said in other threads, I'd love to retain his services. However, this is the perfect off season for him to move elsewhere, as it would take up another team's cap space as we angled for one of the great free agents this year.

I don't know. Maybe I'm more ambivalent about Okafor than I realized. I guess I want his decision to leave to be his rather than us not wanting him, as I think that might fire Okafor up to play better at his new home.

[dvdbumpus]

Let Okafor walk! I'm sick of seeing games where Earl Boykins has more rebounds then Okafor, in half the time! It's sickening. When a guy his size doesn't have a rebound in over 12 minutes of work, you know somethings wrong.

[amour217]

It's kinda sad, actually. Emeka Okafor is a wonderful, intelligent, caring person and it's nice to have him in this community...but I'd hate to think that he's shutting it down to end this season...

[ohara831]

It's kinda sad, actually. Emeka Okafor is a wonderful, intelligent, caring person and it's nice to have him in this community...but I'd hate to think that he's shutting it down to end this season...
__________________________________________________ _

I think he shut it down after Ammo and May went out for the yr. What putrid play this yr. I think he is going to come up with a mysterious "injury" and we shut him down so he does not do more damage to his Sign and Trade value once they lift the moritoroum on signings. He is so outta here it aint funny.

[ziggy]

From the looks of it, Emeka either doesn't want to play in Charlotte anymore or more likely doesn't want to play for Sam Vincent anymore. I think its the latter because we never saw these kind of half hearted efforts under Bernie Bickerstaff over his first 3 years.
With that being said, I've come over to the dark side and realize that its time for Emeka to go,however I'm not willing to let him just walk away for nothing. I'm not even willing to trade him away for 50 cents on the dollar. If he is traded away, then I want some combination of quality picks or players in return. Not garbage.

[ohara831]

Ziggy, I think we all agree that a Sign and Trade must be for a quality player along with a pick in the 2009 Draft or we end up with a player taken in the Lottery of the 2008 Draft by someone. Either way, Sign and Trade has to be done. having him go for nothing would be foolish.

[TheLegend]

I wouldn't trade him, its maybe all Sam Vincent fault or hes not use too him well since he is a rookie coach...

[TheBeagle]

I think there's not only a massive disconnect between Mek and "coach," there's one between him and his teammates. I never read or hear his name mentioned by his teammates in interviews. Also, at the end of last night's game, Raymond stands at the end of the bench as the team heads for the tunnel giving 5 to Matt, Jared, Jermareo, and as Mek goes by him, there is no acknowledgement, no eye-contact, nothing; Mek just brushes by Raymond, and keeps walking. Raymond stays for Jermareo and Boykins, I think it was, but that was an odd, awkward moment that was captured on film. If I had to guess, his teammates, most of them at least, are tired of his bullshit.

What's strange is that he's killing his market value, like has been said. This proves that this isn't about the money to him, otherwise, why tank it like he has been, and have people not only question your ability, but your motivation and commitment as well. Yeah, I'm just not convinced this guy's future is in basketball, and if so, definitely not in Charlotte without a miracle.

*********
Hmmmm. Well, he may not get soudnbytes, but at least he is talking:

http://blogs.charlotte.com/inside_the_nba/2008/03/whats-wrong-wit.html

http://www.charlotte.com/bobcats/story/552938.html

[EvetsMorrison15]

Big Slam is right. Okafor has other desires in life. Other interests that don't involve being the Big Man on a Championship team.

Keep him and pay him the MLE.

[EvetsMorrison15]

Keep him because its better than nothing. What team in the NBA wants a Disinterested player?

i can care less if he puts up 10pts and 10reb. I'd rather get 15reb 5blk. scores on tip ins.

[BIGCatBobcat]

I really think Bonnell reads the boards here. Mek is out. He's checked out already. He is just showing up to collect the paycheck. I hate to say it.

The thing about him not acknowledging teammates or high fiving or anything goes back to his rookie year. My old roommate and I went to games at the old arena and immediately noticed it. He'd hit a free throw and the guys would all do the five on the line thing and he wouldnt lean up so they'd all five each other. It was so strange. Emeka is just like that. Pros and Cons, put bad teammate on the cons list.

[amour217]

Emeka OkaSNORE

[davcbow]

I think there's not only a massive disconnect between Mek and "coach," there's one between him and his teammates. I never read or hear his name mentioned by his teammates in interviews. Also, at the end of last night's game, Raymond stands at the end of the bench as the team heads for the tunnel giving 5 to Matt, Jared, Jermareo, and as Mek goes by him, there is no acknowledgement, no eye-contact, nothing; Mek just brushes by Raymond, and keeps walking. Raymond stays for Jermareo and Boykins, I think it was, but that was an odd, awkward moment that was captured on film. If I had to guess, his teammates, most of them at least, are tired of his bullshit.

What's strange is that he's killing his market value, like has been said. This proves that this isn't about the money to him, otherwise, why tank it like he has been, and have people not only question your ability, but your motivation and commitment as well. Yeah, I'm just not convinced this guy's future is in basketball, and if so, definitely not in Charlotte without a miracle.

*********
Hmmmm. Well, he may not get soudnbytes, but at least he is talking:

http://blogs.charlotte.com/inside_the_nba/2008/03/whats-wrong-wit.html

http://www.charlotte.com/bobcats/story/552938.html




If thats the case maybe its time to trade him away. Before its too late...... :g:

[MattD]

Keep him because its better than nothing. What team in the NBA wants a Disinterested player?

i can care less if he puts up 10pts and 10reb. I'd rather get 15reb 5blk. scores on tip ins.


this post contradicts itself. It makes no sense. Exactly, no one wants a disinterested player, mek proved last night when hes disinterested he gets 1 rebound in the first half.

No a 10 and 10. Mek probably isnt going to resign here. I dont think the decision will end up being with the team. I hope we dont offer him anything. he needs to go for his sake and for ours.

[spectre]

This just makes me sad.

[Muttley]

This just makes me sad.


yeah...

[spectre]

I think there's not only a massive disconnect between Mek and "coach," there's one between him and his teammates. I never read or hear his name mentioned by his teammates in interviews. Also, at the end of last night's game, Raymond stands at the end of the bench as the team heads for the tunnel giving 5 to Matt, Jared, Jermareo, and as Mek goes by him, there is no acknowledgement, no eye-contact, nothing; Mek just brushes by Raymond, and keeps walking. Raymond stays for Jermareo and Boykins, I think it was, but that was an odd, awkward moment that was captured on film. If I had to guess, his teammates, most of them at least, are tired of his bullshit.

What's strange is that he's killing his market value, like has been said. This proves that this isn't about the money to him, otherwise, why tank it like he has been, and have people not only question your ability, but your motivation and commitment as well. Yeah, I'm just not convinced this guy's future is in basketball, and if so, definitely not in Charlotte without a miracle.

*********
Hmmmm. Well, he may not get soudnbytes, but at least he is talking:

http://blogs.charlotte.com/inside_the_nba/2008/03/whats-wrong-wit.html

http://www.charlotte.com/bobcats/story/552938.html




Maybe the interview last night made him think about things as he seems more active tonight. I saw one instance where he missed the shot and got fouled...high fived everyone including Felts as well as the "swing back pat" to the butt. I even rewound it to make sure!

The coach.

[ohara831]

An OK game last night in LA, but cannot get too excited about it. After all, there was no Bynum or Gasol in the game, so he did not have much to fear.

[MattD]

one game means nothing. Okafor has had 20 and 20, a 11 and 11 should come easily.

I still want him gone, I think he still wants to be gone.

[ohara831]

one game means nothing. Okafor has had 20 and 20, a 11 and 11 should come easily.

I still want him gone, I think he still wants to be gone.
________________________________________________

OK. I'll ring up MJ on his cell and tell him.

OK. He says it's a done deal. Once again, I have made the world a better place!

[Chef]

call mj back and tell him to get rid of the hoop earing too.

[amour217]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a166/amour217/Okafor4.jpg

[Slam]

one game means nothing. Okafor has had 20 and 20, a 11 and 11 should come easily.

I still want him gone, I think he still wants to be gone.


He's had ONE 20/20 and 11/11 isn't as easy as you are making it out to be.

[MattD]

one game means nothing. Okafor has had 20 and 20, a 11 and 11 should come easily.

I still want him gone, I think he still wants to be gone.


He's had ONE 20/20 and 11/11 isn't as easy as you are making it out to be.


Charles Barkley, 6'4 always talks about how big men players must not be trying if they cannot pull down 10 rebounds a game. Charles may be one of the most legendary rebounders ever, but still, if your big, and you try its not hard to pull down 10 a night, its all about desire.

As far as 10 goes for mek, fine I will take it, but the 10 and 10 has to come with serious effort and defensive effort, things that generally dont get recorded in the stat book. I didnt watch last night, but in the past 5 games that I have, I reallly havent seen that. Maybe some inside post presence but not much.

[Slam]

Charles Barkley, 6'4 always talks about how big men players must not be trying if they cannot pull down 10 rebounds a game. Charles may be one of the most legendary rebounders ever, but still, if your big, and you try its not hard to pull down 10 a night, its all about desire.

---------------------------

EO50 averages 11 rebounds per game.

And since when has Charles Barkley been only 6'4"?????

[Keetch]

For the record: I don't want him gone. I'm a big fan of Emeka Okafor.

You Rock DOOD.

[WarioVsMooChicken]

Charles Barkley, 6'4 always talks about how big men players must not be trying if they cannot pull down 10 rebounds a game. Charles may be one of the most legendary rebounders ever, but still, if your big, and you try its not hard to pull down 10 a night, its all about desire.

---------------------------

EO50 averages 11 rebounds per game.

And since when has Charles Barkley been only 6'4"?????


Frequently listed as 6 feet 6 inches, but measuring slightly under 6 feet 5 inches,[35][36] Barkley was the shortest player in NBA history to lead the league in rebounding and averaged a career high 14.6 rebounds per game during the 1986-87 season.[37] His tenacious and aggressive play helped cement his legacy as one of the greatest rebounders in NBA history, as he averaged 11.7 rebounds per game and totaled 12,546 rebounds for his career.[9] He topped the NBA in offensive rebounding for three straight years[3] and was capable of controlling a defensive rebound, dribbling the length of the court and finishing at the rim with a powerful dunk.[37] He also possessed considerable defensive talents. He concluded his career as the second All-Time leader in steals for the power forward position[38] and, despite being undersized, also finished among the All-Time leaders in blocked shots.[39]

>_>

[spectre]

I think the 6'4" measurement must be around his waist.

[Muttley]

Charles Barkley, 6'4 always talks about how big men players must not be trying if they cannot pull down 10 rebounds a game. Charles may be one of the most legendary rebounders ever, but still, if your big, and you try its not hard to pull down 10 a night, its all about desire.

---------------------------

EO50 averages 11 rebounds per game.

And since when has Charles Barkley been only 6'4"?????


Frequently listed as 6 feet 6 inches, but measuring slightly under 6 feet 5 inches,[35][36] Barkley was the shortest player in NBA history to lead the league in rebounding and averaged a career high 14.6 rebounds per game during the 1986-87 season.[37] His tenacious and aggressive play helped cement his legacy as one of the greatest rebounders in NBA history, as he averaged 11.7 rebounds per game and totaled 12,546 rebounds for his career.[9] He topped the NBA in offensive rebounding for three straight years[3] and was capable of controlling a defensive rebound, dribbling the length of the court and finishing at the rim with a powerful dunk.[37] He also possessed considerable defensive talents. He concluded his career as the second All-Time leader in steals for the power forward position[38] and, despite being undersized, also finished among the All-Time leaders in blocked shots.[39]

>_>


I believe WvsMc is citing Wikipedia, which of course can always be trusted.

[timang]

he's 6'4.


he actually listed it on his book "I May Be Wrong but I Doubt It". here's the line:

I don't how anybody taller than 6-4 can sit in those seats. And the airline executives don't give a damn 'cause they never walk back there in the first place. I don't fly first class because I have a lot of money. I do it because I need the room.

[davcbow]

What he failed to say was he may only sit up there because he needs the room, if he were a poor man he couldnt afford the high price seats....... :g:

[Slam]

I believe WvsMc is citing Wikipedia, which of course can always be trusted.


------------------------

LOL!!

Give me 2 mins. I'll change it to Barkley being 6'11"!!

[Slam]

he actually listed it on his book "I May Be Wrong but I Doubt It".
------------------------

And I doubt Sir Charles would under estimate his own height to increase the legend of the "round mound of rebound"!!

What sounds better (if you are trying to pump up your own tyres)?

A 6'6" PF who was one of the best positional rebounders in the game or a 6'4" PF who was one of the best positional rebounders in the game?

The suggestion that Barkley is the same height as Dwayne Wade is hilarious.

[chabber]

I've read a lot of stuff over the years from supposed old college buddies or people who are "in the know" that suggest that Okafor doesn't want to be here and doesn't like his teammates etc.. I've always shrugged them off as internet rumors but it's always made sense. I mean a lot of what you see from him suggests it. Whether or not it's his personality or legit discontent for his situation during the whole of his career is the real question. I would lean towards the latter. I think it's why he didn't extend with us last fall and the rift between he and Sam along with our struggles has probably cemented his thoughts of getting out of this town as fast as possible.

[ohara831]

I've read a lot of stuff over the years from supposed old college buddies or people who are "in the know" that suggest that Okafor doesn't want to be here and doesn't like his teammates etc.. I've always shrugged them off as internet rumors but it's always made sense. I mean a lot of what you see from him suggests it. Whether or not it's his personality or legit discontent for his situation during the whole of his career is the real question. I would lean towards the latter. I think it's why he didn't extend with us last fall and the rift between he and Sam along with our struggles has probably cemented his thoughts of getting out of this town as fast as possible.
__________________________________________________ _

Ding Ding Ding. We have a winning entry. You hit the nail on the head. He declined last year's offer as he was not sure he wanted to be here another 5-6 yrs. He wanted to see the direction of the team. Well, I think his play this yr indicates how he sees things. He is outta here. The best we can hope to do is a Sign and Trade.

[spectre]

I've read a lot of stuff over the years from supposed old college buddies or people who are "in the know" that suggest that Okafor doesn't want to be here and doesn't like his teammates etc.. I've always shrugged them off as internet rumors but it's always made sense. I mean a lot of what you see from him suggests it. Whether or not it's his personality or legit discontent for his situation during the whole of his career is the real question. I would lean towards the latter. I think it's why he didn't extend with us last fall and the rift between he and Sam along with our struggles has probably cemented his thoughts of getting out of this town as fast as possible.


That's disturbing. It'd suggest that his "goal oriented" reason wasn't really the reason after all. Could that be why he seldom plays with passion...it's not his nature but his situation?

Wonder why he didn't just ask to be traded? We'd both have been in better shape if we moved him at least before the deadline.

Good to see you back Chabber.

[ohara831]

An Okafor sighting last night in Seattle. Rumors there may be one tonight in Portland, but they say they have the anitidote in Joey P. and LMA. We'll have to see.

[Muttley]

Well put, OHara.

I'd be happy to see him play as hard against tougher competition.

[Keetch]

lets all sing along with Emeka...head fake, dubblepump, dubblepump a headfake! headfake dubblepump...bump bump.

[MattD]

lets all sing along with Emeka...head fake, dubblepump, dubblepump a headfake! headfake dubblepump...bump bump.


and then we could watch him make 57% of his free throws!

[Keetch]

True dat. But if they're mostly AND-ONE'S I'll take that. :D

[chabber]

I've read a lot of stuff over the years from supposed old college buddies or people who are "in the know" that suggest that Okafor doesn't want to be here and doesn't like his teammates etc.. I've always shrugged them off as internet rumors but it's always made sense. I mean a lot of what you see from him suggests it. Whether or not it's his personality or legit discontent for his situation during the whole of his career is the real question. I would lean towards the latter. I think it's why he didn't extend with us last fall and the rift between he and Sam along with our struggles has probably cemented his thoughts of getting out of this town as fast as possible.


That's disturbing. It'd suggest that his "goal oriented" reason wasn't really the reason after all. Could that be why he seldom plays with passion...it's not his nature but his situation?

Wonder why he didn't just ask to be traded? We'd both have been in better shape if we moved him at least before the deadline.

Good to see you back Chabber.


That would be my thoughts too spectre. Of course I don't think Mek is one to want to make a stink, so that's why he probably hasn't asked for a trade or even complained in the media. He had a great opportunity the other day but as you can see he was holding back from answering Bonnell's questions.

[Chef]

the last two games for mek have been much better. he was much more passionate about the game and was giving fives etc to teammates. his offensive game was much more focused. it is like he reads this site. for the off chance that he reads these boards, way to play with pride mek. if you don't want to stay in charlotte fine, just play out these last games with heart and get yourself a better contract in the process. you are too good of a player and person to sulk around and not give it your all.

[timang]

okafor sighting yet again. (21pts, led the team in scoring)




what's happening?

[Keetch]

Mek is one of the few Centers in the league who can actually run up and down the court with Felton. Don't give that away.

[ohara831]

Mek is one of the few Centers in the league who can actually run up and down the court with Felton. Don't give that away.
_________________________________________________

No one wants to give that away. He just has to take a reasonable amount to stay. Hopefully, he and MJ have a heart to heart, he likes our soon to be new Coach, and life is once more good!

[MattD]

Mek is one of the few Centers in the league who can actually run up and down the court with Felton. Don't give that away.


I will absolutely agree with you there. He is strong on the inside defensively too. If only he had the passion/desire/whatever-mojo-he-needs to play strong and intense every game Id be all for giving him a huge contract. But there is something driving this problem. I am not going to pretend I understand what it is, I can only guess, it seems as if he will be somewhere else. Mek can still be a good player, but it really is all up to him.

I am still not happy with his playing this season. If he does decide to come back to Charlotte, (well actually MJ and Bob Johnson make that decision) I hope that he can get past his issues with this franchise. Either way, I hope that Mek doesnt try to sign with a different team and then we pick up on his restricted FA status and keep him, because as we have seen, an unmotivated Mek is not a good Mek, but a passionate Mek can be quiet good, indeed, as Keetch talks about, one of the best and more athletic centers in the league with a balanced attack, stronger on the defense.

We will see, if not, we could try to sign and trade if he requests not to be resigned by the team this summer.

Good game tonight mek, though some of the rebounding (our whole team) hurt my eyes

Oo this summer will be interesting.

[Keetch]

I hear you Ohara and MattD; and I agree I hope they can work it out. As you can tell; I've decided just to enjoy Okafor and hope for the best; but you're concerns are totally valid. He's had a bizarre year.

It will also be interesting to see how the contract for Okafor rolls with any coaching changes.