Dirk looked awesome out there today against the U.S. If I remember correctly, he had 32 points and 12 rebounds. His clutch 3-pointer with 3 seconds left was amazing, and if Iverson would have missed his half-court lob, Dirk would have been the hero. (Considering that he was double-teamed nearly all of the time.)
I didn't get a good read on his defense because the Germans played a ton of zone. Dirk did have a few blocks and steals, so that's something. He does have a bit of a tan, and he does look about 5 pounds lighter.
If this is a sign of what's to come, Dallas will be pretty good next year. The defense is something to watch. I don't know if it will be better or worse, but we are surrounding Dirk with role players. A line-up of Terry, Marquis, Finley, Dirk, and Booth doesn't look bad by any means. Marquis was a good defender last year, and he's only going to improve. Booth will provide some minor presence in the paint, and he can block shots. Finley is at least an average defender. If Nellie can find the right defensive scheme, I expect them to get the 4 seed or so.
Let's not forget the bench. Harris, Stack, Howard, Laettner, and Bradley. I still haven't mentioned the guy from Congo who is supposed to be super-athletic. And let's see, one more person...how about Najera? Man, there's some depth on this team.
Imagine this line-up. Marquis, Howard, Najera, Dirk, and Bradley. In a zone. Man, that's insane. Marquis and Howard are quick enough, Najera can do the dirty work, Dirk and Bradley provide height and length inside.
Interesting stuff really.
2 comments:
Dirk ... elite ... not yet. You focus way too much on this guy. MJ, Magic, Bird ... those are elite, and I laugh at you if you think Dirk belongs in this category.
Peja may be the hottest guy out there now ... over Kidd that is. With a shooter out there, you can always expect Isiah and the Knicks in the mist. There will have to be some superstars in the mix for Peja to stay in the West, if there is a trade. Ainge and the Celtics may try to get him. But you have to think Sac ... they are good at every position, so they will be looking for a SF.
If i had to my way a trade would look like this:
Finley, Howard, Terry, and that 1 rounder in '07 for Peja and Bobby Jackson.
Check out this lineup: Jackson, Daniels, Peja, Dirk, and Booth with Harris and the Vets coming off the pine. That would make it a good offseason.
Unfortunately for the Knicks, they don't have much collateral. If they could magically convicne the Kings to take Allan Houston, by all means. Same goes for the Celtics. The only good player they have is Pierce. Maybe Ricky Davis for Peja, but that deal is lopsided.
Whatever team trades for Peja will have to include draft picks.
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