Brandon Hunter paced the Mailmen with 27 points (13 rebounds) as the team went on for a 74-41 victory against Firehouse.
It was a similar result to the last time these two teams played, Firehouse has not won a game this season.
The Mailmen dominated in every aspect of the game. The 74 points is well above their season average of right around 60. The Mailmen crashed the glass as well, totaling 49 rebounds, 12 boards over their season average this year.
"You can't look past anyone," Coach Jason Hunter (10 points, 3 rebounds) said after, "I wanted to make a statement and I believe we did. Firehouse came out in the first half and hit some early shots, got us going. We may have cruised a bit the latter half of the game, we just need to make sure we keep our head straight moving forward. We need a good push into the playoffs this year."
Kerry Hunter agreed, "I get to see a lot of the action now being in street clothes, and we look pretty solid. We want to press on defense and work for good shots on offense. I think our defense will really push us deep into the post season. We are looking to add a press defense in the upcoming weeks, just another piece of our team that we think will help."
The Mailmen found scoring and rebounds from everyone. Pat Cripple added 13 points, John Reminder 13 rebounds, Andy Kempf recorded his first double double this season with 11 points and boards, and newly signed Clinton Weigel added 7 points and 4 rebounds. Mike Giardina was out due to a family situation.
The Mailmen will battle Shawn Kemps Kids who are 7-4 on the year.
----
Cripple's fine lifted
After a further investigation into Pat Cripple's ankle injury, it was reported as a miscommunication between the organization and Cripple's agent. Cripple was competing in a charity basketball game when he rolled his ankle a little over a week ago. The team and Cripple have reached an agreement and the money from the fine will be matched by the team and sent to the charity event for next year.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Hunter - No the Other One - Leads Mailmen in Blowout
Jason Hunter may finally be finding a groove. Coach Hunter dropped a season high 21 points, five of eight from three, as the Mailmen roll past Drizzle 57-26.
Brandon Hunter added 14 points as the two Hunter brother's outscored the opposition by themselves. John Reminder had 12 (8 rebounds) and Andy Kempf grabbed 8 rebounds as the team moved to 8-2 on the year.
It was a lower scoring game for the Mailmen. But that could be due to the large deficit after the first half. The Mailmen defense stepped up again and allowed a total of 2 points to Drizzle at the end of the first half. The Mailmen lead the league in opposition scoring, only 392 points, or about 40 points per game. The lead the league by over 50 points in that category.
"It was good feeling," Jason said after, "very smooth, very confident. Hopefully this gets things moving in the right direction for me offensively. If I can do this on a nightly basis, I think that makes us pretty tough to beat. We can defend just about anyone, just comes down to us making shots. If I'm making shots, we have a lot of offense. Really hope this can continue for me."
J. Hunter has shot much better the past two games, 8 of 15, from three. He was in a slump as of late, shooting under 30% from the year from deep.
The Mailmen will battle Firehouse this coming Sunday. The good guys beat on them pretty well in their last meeting, 70-27. Firehouse has yet to win a ballgame this year.
"We cant look past them," Kerry Hunter said, "playoffs are coming up and we have to continue to roll. One game at a time."
---
Weigel signed through year The Mailmen added Clinton Weigel for the remainder of the season. With big man Kerry Hunter out and no timetable for his return, the team added depth with Weigel. Pat Cripple was also out last week after an ankle injury. Weigel had 4 points and 4 rebounds against Drizzle.
Cripple fined by team Word from the Mailmen front office is Pat Cripple was fined an undisclosed amount following his ankle injury. He sprained it playing basketball outside of the organization. Cripple is questionable for this Sundays game.
Brandon Hunter added 14 points as the two Hunter brother's outscored the opposition by themselves. John Reminder had 12 (8 rebounds) and Andy Kempf grabbed 8 rebounds as the team moved to 8-2 on the year.
It was a lower scoring game for the Mailmen. But that could be due to the large deficit after the first half. The Mailmen defense stepped up again and allowed a total of 2 points to Drizzle at the end of the first half. The Mailmen lead the league in opposition scoring, only 392 points, or about 40 points per game. The lead the league by over 50 points in that category.
"It was good feeling," Jason said after, "very smooth, very confident. Hopefully this gets things moving in the right direction for me offensively. If I can do this on a nightly basis, I think that makes us pretty tough to beat. We can defend just about anyone, just comes down to us making shots. If I'm making shots, we have a lot of offense. Really hope this can continue for me."
J. Hunter has shot much better the past two games, 8 of 15, from three. He was in a slump as of late, shooting under 30% from the year from deep.
The Mailmen will battle Firehouse this coming Sunday. The good guys beat on them pretty well in their last meeting, 70-27. Firehouse has yet to win a ballgame this year.
"We cant look past them," Kerry Hunter said, "playoffs are coming up and we have to continue to roll. One game at a time."
---
Weigel signed through year The Mailmen added Clinton Weigel for the remainder of the season. With big man Kerry Hunter out and no timetable for his return, the team added depth with Weigel. Pat Cripple was also out last week after an ankle injury. Weigel had 4 points and 4 rebounds against Drizzle.
Cripple fined by team Word from the Mailmen front office is Pat Cripple was fined an undisclosed amount following his ankle injury. He sprained it playing basketball outside of the organization. Cripple is questionable for this Sundays game.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Size Does Matter as Mailmen Fall to Jalepenos
The good guys battled, but came out short, literally, against Jalepenos, 57-53.
The teams were involved in a physical battle all night. Three technical fouls were given, two to the Jalepenos, and one against the Mailmen (John Reminder). Tempers flared and the intensity was high all night long, unfortunately the Mailmen faltered down the stretch and came up short.
Brandon Hunter paced the team with 21 points on 7 of 15 shooting, 5 for 11 from three. He hit his first four shots to start the game, all three pointers, but only managed one the rest of the way. Pat Cripple added 10 and Jason Hunter came out of a season-long shooting slump, hitting on three three pointers totaling nine points.
The Mailmen suffered inside and on the rebounding end against the taller, longer Jalepeno team. Getting to the basket was no problem, but shot after shot was swatted away underneath, and offensive rebounds for the Jalepenos killed the momentum.
"We had a shot to win this game," Kerry Hunter said, "we battled, we just came up a little short tonight."
"As tough as we play," Crip said after the game, "you figure we'd get some brownie points. But our tough play seems to go against us...at least in the refs minds and whistles."
The foul calls were a bit one sided after the first half, 6-0, against the Mailmen. It ended 11-10 with the Mailmen still on the losing end, but it did not look as close as it was.
Jason just shook his head after hearing a question about the refs for the second time this season, "I don't have deep pockets, I'm done talking about it. I just know we play hard and scrap and do what we can, especially when we are undersized. We won't change how we play, we can't if we want to win."
The Mailmen will play a rare Saturday night game this weekend and then a Sunday game following. The Saturday game is a makeup for Super Bowl weekend. They go up against Rockout With Your Lockout who was 2-5 as of this writing.
The teams were involved in a physical battle all night. Three technical fouls were given, two to the Jalepenos, and one against the Mailmen (John Reminder). Tempers flared and the intensity was high all night long, unfortunately the Mailmen faltered down the stretch and came up short.
Brandon Hunter paced the team with 21 points on 7 of 15 shooting, 5 for 11 from three. He hit his first four shots to start the game, all three pointers, but only managed one the rest of the way. Pat Cripple added 10 and Jason Hunter came out of a season-long shooting slump, hitting on three three pointers totaling nine points.
The Mailmen suffered inside and on the rebounding end against the taller, longer Jalepeno team. Getting to the basket was no problem, but shot after shot was swatted away underneath, and offensive rebounds for the Jalepenos killed the momentum.
"We had a shot to win this game," Kerry Hunter said, "we battled, we just came up a little short tonight."
"As tough as we play," Crip said after the game, "you figure we'd get some brownie points. But our tough play seems to go against us...at least in the refs minds and whistles."
The foul calls were a bit one sided after the first half, 6-0, against the Mailmen. It ended 11-10 with the Mailmen still on the losing end, but it did not look as close as it was.
Jason just shook his head after hearing a question about the refs for the second time this season, "I don't have deep pockets, I'm done talking about it. I just know we play hard and scrap and do what we can, especially when we are undersized. We won't change how we play, we can't if we want to win."
The Mailmen will play a rare Saturday night game this weekend and then a Sunday game following. The Saturday game is a makeup for Super Bowl weekend. They go up against Rockout With Your Lockout who was 2-5 as of this writing.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Mailmen Shoot Well, Win Big
The Mailmen improved to 6-1 on the season after a 61-39 route of Darice.
Brandon Hunter returned to form, somewhat, scoring 21 points and grabbing 7 rebounds. He only hit on 5 of 16 shots, but filled it up from the line going 9 of 11.
"It was good for me to get back on track," Brandon said, "I still didn't shoot as well as I would have liked, but I got a lot of calls tonight going to the basket and took advantage there."
Pat Cripple had the best game of his season, scoring 16. But most of those points came off of steals at the top of the 2-3 zone. Crip, Mike Giardina, and Jason Hunter suffocated the Darice offense up top, tipping passing, creating double-teams and turnovers. This led to fast break points and easy lay ups, which exhausted the opposition in the second half. Giardina and Cripple had a 4 to 5 possession stretch where passes were tipped, balls were stolen, and lay ups ensued.
"We've been locking down defensively the past few weeks," Coach Jason Hunter (8 points) said afterward, "When we can't score, we defend. We are starting to create easy baskets, which helps us greatly. We have struggled the past few games percentage wise, but the free throws and lay ups...you just don't miss those."
The team shot 42% from the field, 38% from three. The Mailmen had a tremendous night at the line, 15 of 20, way above their season free throw percentage (55%).
The Mailmen have an off week next weekend for the Super Bowl. Play will resume for the team February 12th, when they go up against Jammin Japaleno's. They were 5-1 as of this writing. The team has some unfinished business with the Jalapeno's as they were the team that ultimately eliminated the Mailmen, who were the Reignmaker's then, from the playoffs last year.
Kempf says "4", only finds basket once
Andy Kempf wanted everyone to know he was going in big time this past game.
"I said I was going to score 4 tonight," Andy smiled, "but I didn't get the ball where I needed it...with opportunities...to score."
That's when Brandon Hunter yelled from across the locker room, "Yea, when he dribbles coast to coast, it's never an opportunity to score!"
Kempf laughed, "I'm not a ball handler."
Brandon Hunter returned to form, somewhat, scoring 21 points and grabbing 7 rebounds. He only hit on 5 of 16 shots, but filled it up from the line going 9 of 11.
"It was good for me to get back on track," Brandon said, "I still didn't shoot as well as I would have liked, but I got a lot of calls tonight going to the basket and took advantage there."
Pat Cripple had the best game of his season, scoring 16. But most of those points came off of steals at the top of the 2-3 zone. Crip, Mike Giardina, and Jason Hunter suffocated the Darice offense up top, tipping passing, creating double-teams and turnovers. This led to fast break points and easy lay ups, which exhausted the opposition in the second half. Giardina and Cripple had a 4 to 5 possession stretch where passes were tipped, balls were stolen, and lay ups ensued.
"We've been locking down defensively the past few weeks," Coach Jason Hunter (8 points) said afterward, "When we can't score, we defend. We are starting to create easy baskets, which helps us greatly. We have struggled the past few games percentage wise, but the free throws and lay ups...you just don't miss those."
The team shot 42% from the field, 38% from three. The Mailmen had a tremendous night at the line, 15 of 20, way above their season free throw percentage (55%).
The Mailmen have an off week next weekend for the Super Bowl. Play will resume for the team February 12th, when they go up against Jammin Japaleno's. They were 5-1 as of this writing. The team has some unfinished business with the Jalapeno's as they were the team that ultimately eliminated the Mailmen, who were the Reignmaker's then, from the playoffs last year.
Kempf says "4", only finds basket once
Andy Kempf wanted everyone to know he was going in big time this past game.
"I said I was going to score 4 tonight," Andy smiled, "but I didn't get the ball where I needed it...with opportunities...to score."
That's when Brandon Hunter yelled from across the locker room, "Yea, when he dribbles coast to coast, it's never an opportunity to score!"
Kempf laughed, "I'm not a ball handler."
Monday, January 23, 2012
Mailmen Overcome Poor Offensive Outings, Win 2 Straight
If I had told you the Mailmen shot 5 of 33 (15%) from three, 31 of 88 (35%) from two, 9 of 21 (43%) from the line and leading scorer Brandon Hunter managed only 6 points in one of two games...would you have thought the team would come away 2-0?
"Defense wins championships," said Mike Giardina after a 42-40 victory over the previously undefeated M&M Buckeye last night. Giardina actually paced the team with 13 points and hit the only three pointer (out of 16) for the team.
He would seem to be right. The Mailmen held Buckeye to 40 and Team Eric to 30 points as the Mailmen moved to 5-1 in the regular season, slotting them #2 in the power rankings for the league.
Offense has come few and far between the past two games. The team is well below their season average of about 61 points per game in the past two only mustering 42 and 45 respectively, the past two outings. The Mailmen are usually paced by scoring forward Brandon Hunter, but he has only managed to hit 3 of his last 15 three pointers, a place where he had been shooting better this year, than last.
But where Brandon couldn't fill, others stepped up. Against Buckeye, Mike Giardina had a season high 13 (6 rebounds), Pat Cripple 11 (6 rebounds) and Jason Hunter 10 (season high 7 rebounds).
Defense also played a valuable part in the victorys. Mike, Pat and Jason locked up the top of the key and arc forcing tipped passes and grabbing some takeaways. The rest of the big men contested shots inside and gave the other teams only one opportunity to score.
"We didn't give up a lot of second chance points," injured big man Kerry Hunter said, "we did a great job or bodying, especially late in the second game. We couldn't score, but neither could they. With us in the lead, that's all that matters."
Andy Kempf and Johno Reminder once again battled inside, defending shots and gobbling up the glass. Brandon did his part against Buckeye as well, leading the team with 9 rebounds.
"Poor night from me shooting, worst night of the season," said Brandon, "but with us winning, it's good to see that I can have an off night and we can still come away with it."
Jason agreed, "We usually don't have to work this hard to score. Brandon usually paces us, but everyone else stepped up. Good to get a well fought W."
The Mailmen play a rare Monday night game next week against Darice.
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Coach Hunter struggling offensively
Jason Hunter has yet to find his mark from deep. Shooting only 19% (5/27) in six games so far this year.
"I actually felt comfortable this past game against Buckeye. I need to start shooting the same way each time. I fade in and out of styles depending on where I catch it and how open I am. The form I used tonight I shot it the same way all 4 attempts. They'll start to fall. I'm going to continue to go to the basket more, seem to do well inside right now."
Jason is shooting 53% (16/30) from inside the arc this season.
Kerry Hunter back to the IR
After two games, center Kerry Hunter is back to street clothes and coaching the sidelines.
"The twisting and turning might just be too much for my knee right now. During the game I feel fine, but afterward, it's just too much too soon I think."
No details on when he would return. But hopefully after a few more weeks of rest, Hunter would be ready to go. He is averaging 6.5 points and 5 rebounds in two games so far this season.
"Defense wins championships," said Mike Giardina after a 42-40 victory over the previously undefeated M&M Buckeye last night. Giardina actually paced the team with 13 points and hit the only three pointer (out of 16) for the team.
He would seem to be right. The Mailmen held Buckeye to 40 and Team Eric to 30 points as the Mailmen moved to 5-1 in the regular season, slotting them #2 in the power rankings for the league.
Offense has come few and far between the past two games. The team is well below their season average of about 61 points per game in the past two only mustering 42 and 45 respectively, the past two outings. The Mailmen are usually paced by scoring forward Brandon Hunter, but he has only managed to hit 3 of his last 15 three pointers, a place where he had been shooting better this year, than last.
But where Brandon couldn't fill, others stepped up. Against Buckeye, Mike Giardina had a season high 13 (6 rebounds), Pat Cripple 11 (6 rebounds) and Jason Hunter 10 (season high 7 rebounds).
Defense also played a valuable part in the victorys. Mike, Pat and Jason locked up the top of the key and arc forcing tipped passes and grabbing some takeaways. The rest of the big men contested shots inside and gave the other teams only one opportunity to score.
"We didn't give up a lot of second chance points," injured big man Kerry Hunter said, "we did a great job or bodying, especially late in the second game. We couldn't score, but neither could they. With us in the lead, that's all that matters."
Andy Kempf and Johno Reminder once again battled inside, defending shots and gobbling up the glass. Brandon did his part against Buckeye as well, leading the team with 9 rebounds.
"Poor night from me shooting, worst night of the season," said Brandon, "but with us winning, it's good to see that I can have an off night and we can still come away with it."
Jason agreed, "We usually don't have to work this hard to score. Brandon usually paces us, but everyone else stepped up. Good to get a well fought W."
The Mailmen play a rare Monday night game next week against Darice.
---
Coach Hunter struggling offensively
Jason Hunter has yet to find his mark from deep. Shooting only 19% (5/27) in six games so far this year.
"I actually felt comfortable this past game against Buckeye. I need to start shooting the same way each time. I fade in and out of styles depending on where I catch it and how open I am. The form I used tonight I shot it the same way all 4 attempts. They'll start to fall. I'm going to continue to go to the basket more, seem to do well inside right now."
Jason is shooting 53% (16/30) from inside the arc this season.
Kerry Hunter back to the IR
After two games, center Kerry Hunter is back to street clothes and coaching the sidelines.
"The twisting and turning might just be too much for my knee right now. During the game I feel fine, but afterward, it's just too much too soon I think."
No details on when he would return. But hopefully after a few more weeks of rest, Hunter would be ready to go. He is averaging 6.5 points and 5 rebounds in two games so far this season.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
A Post Between Games
I have been hearin rumblings that people want more out of my blog than just posts about the rec bball league...so I am going to try to give you all a little bit of that right now.
I want to give my opinion on what the Cavs and Browns should do in the upcoming off-seasons. The Indians are on a whole different level, there's way too much going on right now...and in all honesty, I would rather see the Cavs and Browns do well, if I had my choice.
I'll work on the Cavs first...
Cleveland Cavs 2012 off-season
2012 Season Moves
If Jamison decides to become a better shooter this year, as hovering around 40% will not do it, you may be able to trade him away to a contender looking for a scorer off the bench. You would have to take on an awful contract as well, seeing as Jamison makes around $14 mil this year. But maybe Atlanta bites, giving to their first rounder/Etan Thomas. The Celtics? Would hurt to give a Division rival a scorer but they could give a first rounder/Nenad Kristic or Jermaine O'Neal. Pacers maybe into the mix for a first/Louis Amundson. There are potential suitors out there and finding a way to add another pick in the draft could play big dividens at the end of the year.
Find a way to retain Alonzo Gee. I debated Semih Erdan here, but I guess I haven't seen enough of him yet to determine if he's worth a shot next year. He's only 27, so he still has plenty of basketball left. Gee on the other hand may get handed the starting SF role here later this season if he continues to play well. He's outplayed Casspi so far, but since we traded Hickson for him, Casspi was basically handed that role. I had better hopes for him and maybe he will improve. But Gee right now is the guy I want next year at that spot.
Sign Sessions long term. If someone puts a over the top deal on the table for Ramon during this season...something you can't pass up, I'd say take it as long as you're getting at least a first rounder and maybe even future picks (the same would go for Andy in this spot, but that deal would have to be absolutely too great to pass up (think first/second/future picks and another, young talent)). But Sessions is easily the best back-up point guard in the league and could start for probably half of the teams in the NBA now...Knick fans are practically drooling over him. Having him behind Irving keeps the offense moving when Kyrie needs a break.
Anthony Parker is either traded or just retires at the end of the season. I could see him being brought back as a coach of some kind in 2013. He's a great locker room and team guy, but his role is limited even more next year.
2012 Draft
After looking at the board a few times and understanding the Cavs will probably be looking at drafting in the top 10 (I know they are off to a great start now, but the schedule gets tougher and a young team will hit speed bumps), there are plenty of options.
Considering the following statements above and we bring back Gee and possibly Erdan the Cavs roster looks like this:
PG - Irving, Sessions, Gibson
SG -
SF - Casspi, Gee, Eyenga
PF - Thompson, Samuels
C - Varejao, Erdan
Sorry Harangody and Hollins, but if the Cavs have at least three draft picks this offseason, I can't see you guys coming back. Maybe Harangody as the 14th or 15th guy, but nothing more.
So let's say the Cavs can give Jamison away for a late first rounder. The Kings pick that we received will probably not be received this year, as the Kings are terrible and the pick is protected if Sacramento in in the draft lottery. The Cavs will ultimately pick in the top 10 as well, even considering their hot start.
I see the Cavs picks as follows:
First Round - 7, 26
Second Round - 35 (JaBron trade), 37
Four picks would be a fantastic thing this year for a Cavs team on the rise. This years draft will be a great one, with a lot of players coming out who held off last year.
#7
This will probably be an interesting pick for the Cavs. SF isn't really a spot the Cavs desperately need as SG would need to be filled immediately. I don't really see the Cavs trading down, unless they are concrete on who they want a little later and get a decent deal at 7. NBA.com has Michael Kidd-Gilchrist going at #7 and I would agree with this pick for the Cavs. It may come down to picking the best player available and someone who can creat their own shot. MKG fits this bill perfectly. As much as I would love Harrison Barnes here, he will most likely be gone well before 7 and even my second choice, Jeremy Lamb from UConn will also be off the board here. Kidd-Gilchrist is a prospect who has been given great grades on character and a willingness to improve. He's also a great defender, which fits into Coach Scott's game plan to a tee.
#26
Wherever the Cavs pick down here is just an added bonus. NBA.com has Mason Plumlee from Duke here and he wouldn't be a terrible pick. The Cavs may need to look for a future Center here or just go after more scoring. Other picks that I would like to see late in the first round incluce UNC PF/C Tyler Zeller (another big body, closer to 7 feet than Plumlee), IUPUI guard Alex Young (scorer, JR Smith-like off the bench), and William Buford from Ohio State who can also fill it up from anywhere on the floor.
#35
With the Heat pick I look to add more depth at Center, especially if we took another shooter late in the first round. Robert Sacre from Gonzaga, Reggie Johnson from Miami, and Henry Sims from Georgetown are all legit centers who will probably be on the board here. Sacre would have to add some strength where as Sims and Johnson would be projects to sit behind Varejao and Erdan to learn from some vets.
#37
This last pick you can always take a flyer on someone or look overseas for some untapped potential. Eyenga was late in the second round and is actually turning some of his potential the past year. Quincy Acy from Baylor, Robbie Hummel from Purdue, JaMychal Green from Alabama, or Augusto Lima from Brazil could all be potential picks in this spot.
The picks at 35 and 37 would most likely be end of the bench guys or even D-leaguer's depending on any free agents the Cavs could bring in.
Free Agent Moves
There is a good list of guys any team would want after the year is over. Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, Derrick Rose, and Andrew Bynum to name a few. The Cavs list is going to have to be shortened. Top-tier talent wont truly look to come here, even as much as Dan Gilbert would look to pay them.
Side Note: Keep up the GREAT work Mr. Gilbert and Chris Grant. Huge trades last year have put this team years ahead of the Browns and Indians
Some names that may be off your radar's out there include these guys:
DJ White, Omar Asik - Both big men have improved a lot over the past year. DJ White slipped into the Bobcats starting role while Tyrus Thomas was hurt and played well beyond his means. He's averaging around 10 points and 7 rebounds in about 25 minutes a night. Asik is 25 years old and a legit 7-footer. Last season in only 12 minutes a game Asik grabbed around 4 rebounds. You can't truly just double stats if you double his minutes. But even at 20 minutes a night, Asik would be good for 6-8 rebounds and over 55% shooting from the floor. Asik minutes have increased this season to around 18 and his totals have improved to around 6 boards and over a block a game.
Michael Beasley, Anthony Randolph - With the Wolves looking to lock up Kevin Love long term and now the emergence of Rubio and the draft of Derrick Williams last year, either both or one of these two lengthy forwards will likely be a free agent. Beasley has bounced around a bit and could be a bit of a head case. But maybe another change of scenery, a starting spot or sixth-man role and an ability to run the floor could make him a good fit. Randolph also plays above the rim and blocks shots. Both are young, mid-20's and play enough defense to please Scott on that end.
Other notable FA's - Bill Walker, CJ Miles, Jodie Meeks, and OJ Mayo
If all went to how I would work it. The Cavs would sign Asik and Mayo. I would love Randolph, but with Thompson and Samuels there, I don't see a need at the PF spot. Beasley would also create a jam at SF and could potentially leave less time for MKG at the 3.
Here's a look at how the roster would break down for the 2012-2013 season.
PG - Irving, Sessions, Gibson
SG - Mayo, Alex Young
SF - Gee, Casspi, MKG
PF - Thompson, Samuels
C - Varejao, Asik
13-15 and D-league
Erdan, Eyenga, Pick 35 and 37
This roster leaves us a little short, but if Mayo isn't signed, Erdan or one of the big's picked in the 2nd round easily fill out the roster and give us a 5th big man. Picking Zeller or Plumlee late in the first round instead of Young also gives us that depth.
Big Move in 2013
Without really looking at the 2013 draft, the big acquistion I look for in 2013 is James Harden. The Thunder will have big money locked up in KD, Westbrook, Ibaka and Perkins. Someone will have to be the odd man out. With Gibson's contract expiring and Casspi off the books, thatwould leave the Cavs more space to sign a big name talent. Harden immediately solidifies the SG spot. Having him run the floor with Irving, Thompson, and MKG the Cavs would have a extremely young, yet experienced starting 5. A playoff run in 2013 is easily expected if Harden is added. The Cavs would have four roster spots filled for years to come.
I'm not saying this would be the perfect outcome for the Cavs. Things can change. The Cavs could actually compete at around .500 all year and potentially pick later in the first round. Maybe the Kings turn it around and the Cavs end up with 3 picks in round one and five total. Maye Varejao, Sessions, and Jamison are all gone by the end of the year. But if this is how the Cavs looked to end 2012 and to start 2013, I wouldn't be upset at all. The core seems to be coming together. Irving and Thompson will be cornerstones, now they just need to find another scorer and add depth and you could be looking at the Cavs being back in the playoff picture as early as 2013.
Brown's options later...
I want to give my opinion on what the Cavs and Browns should do in the upcoming off-seasons. The Indians are on a whole different level, there's way too much going on right now...and in all honesty, I would rather see the Cavs and Browns do well, if I had my choice.
I'll work on the Cavs first...
Cleveland Cavs 2012 off-season
2012 Season Moves
If Jamison decides to become a better shooter this year, as hovering around 40% will not do it, you may be able to trade him away to a contender looking for a scorer off the bench. You would have to take on an awful contract as well, seeing as Jamison makes around $14 mil this year. But maybe Atlanta bites, giving to their first rounder/Etan Thomas. The Celtics? Would hurt to give a Division rival a scorer but they could give a first rounder/Nenad Kristic or Jermaine O'Neal. Pacers maybe into the mix for a first/Louis Amundson. There are potential suitors out there and finding a way to add another pick in the draft could play big dividens at the end of the year.
Find a way to retain Alonzo Gee. I debated Semih Erdan here, but I guess I haven't seen enough of him yet to determine if he's worth a shot next year. He's only 27, so he still has plenty of basketball left. Gee on the other hand may get handed the starting SF role here later this season if he continues to play well. He's outplayed Casspi so far, but since we traded Hickson for him, Casspi was basically handed that role. I had better hopes for him and maybe he will improve. But Gee right now is the guy I want next year at that spot.
Sign Sessions long term. If someone puts a over the top deal on the table for Ramon during this season...something you can't pass up, I'd say take it as long as you're getting at least a first rounder and maybe even future picks (the same would go for Andy in this spot, but that deal would have to be absolutely too great to pass up (think first/second/future picks and another, young talent)). But Sessions is easily the best back-up point guard in the league and could start for probably half of the teams in the NBA now...Knick fans are practically drooling over him. Having him behind Irving keeps the offense moving when Kyrie needs a break.
Anthony Parker is either traded or just retires at the end of the season. I could see him being brought back as a coach of some kind in 2013. He's a great locker room and team guy, but his role is limited even more next year.
2012 Draft
After looking at the board a few times and understanding the Cavs will probably be looking at drafting in the top 10 (I know they are off to a great start now, but the schedule gets tougher and a young team will hit speed bumps), there are plenty of options.
Considering the following statements above and we bring back Gee and possibly Erdan the Cavs roster looks like this:
PG - Irving, Sessions, Gibson
SG -
SF - Casspi, Gee, Eyenga
PF - Thompson, Samuels
C - Varejao, Erdan
Sorry Harangody and Hollins, but if the Cavs have at least three draft picks this offseason, I can't see you guys coming back. Maybe Harangody as the 14th or 15th guy, but nothing more.
So let's say the Cavs can give Jamison away for a late first rounder. The Kings pick that we received will probably not be received this year, as the Kings are terrible and the pick is protected if Sacramento in in the draft lottery. The Cavs will ultimately pick in the top 10 as well, even considering their hot start.
I see the Cavs picks as follows:
First Round - 7, 26
Second Round - 35 (JaBron trade), 37
Four picks would be a fantastic thing this year for a Cavs team on the rise. This years draft will be a great one, with a lot of players coming out who held off last year.
#7
This will probably be an interesting pick for the Cavs. SF isn't really a spot the Cavs desperately need as SG would need to be filled immediately. I don't really see the Cavs trading down, unless they are concrete on who they want a little later and get a decent deal at 7. NBA.com has Michael Kidd-Gilchrist going at #7 and I would agree with this pick for the Cavs. It may come down to picking the best player available and someone who can creat their own shot. MKG fits this bill perfectly. As much as I would love Harrison Barnes here, he will most likely be gone well before 7 and even my second choice, Jeremy Lamb from UConn will also be off the board here. Kidd-Gilchrist is a prospect who has been given great grades on character and a willingness to improve. He's also a great defender, which fits into Coach Scott's game plan to a tee.
#26
Wherever the Cavs pick down here is just an added bonus. NBA.com has Mason Plumlee from Duke here and he wouldn't be a terrible pick. The Cavs may need to look for a future Center here or just go after more scoring. Other picks that I would like to see late in the first round incluce UNC PF/C Tyler Zeller (another big body, closer to 7 feet than Plumlee), IUPUI guard Alex Young (scorer, JR Smith-like off the bench), and William Buford from Ohio State who can also fill it up from anywhere on the floor.
#35
With the Heat pick I look to add more depth at Center, especially if we took another shooter late in the first round. Robert Sacre from Gonzaga, Reggie Johnson from Miami, and Henry Sims from Georgetown are all legit centers who will probably be on the board here. Sacre would have to add some strength where as Sims and Johnson would be projects to sit behind Varejao and Erdan to learn from some vets.
#37
This last pick you can always take a flyer on someone or look overseas for some untapped potential. Eyenga was late in the second round and is actually turning some of his potential the past year. Quincy Acy from Baylor, Robbie Hummel from Purdue, JaMychal Green from Alabama, or Augusto Lima from Brazil could all be potential picks in this spot.
The picks at 35 and 37 would most likely be end of the bench guys or even D-leaguer's depending on any free agents the Cavs could bring in.
Free Agent Moves
There is a good list of guys any team would want after the year is over. Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, Derrick Rose, and Andrew Bynum to name a few. The Cavs list is going to have to be shortened. Top-tier talent wont truly look to come here, even as much as Dan Gilbert would look to pay them.
Side Note: Keep up the GREAT work Mr. Gilbert and Chris Grant. Huge trades last year have put this team years ahead of the Browns and Indians
Some names that may be off your radar's out there include these guys:
DJ White, Omar Asik - Both big men have improved a lot over the past year. DJ White slipped into the Bobcats starting role while Tyrus Thomas was hurt and played well beyond his means. He's averaging around 10 points and 7 rebounds in about 25 minutes a night. Asik is 25 years old and a legit 7-footer. Last season in only 12 minutes a game Asik grabbed around 4 rebounds. You can't truly just double stats if you double his minutes. But even at 20 minutes a night, Asik would be good for 6-8 rebounds and over 55% shooting from the floor. Asik minutes have increased this season to around 18 and his totals have improved to around 6 boards and over a block a game.
Michael Beasley, Anthony Randolph - With the Wolves looking to lock up Kevin Love long term and now the emergence of Rubio and the draft of Derrick Williams last year, either both or one of these two lengthy forwards will likely be a free agent. Beasley has bounced around a bit and could be a bit of a head case. But maybe another change of scenery, a starting spot or sixth-man role and an ability to run the floor could make him a good fit. Randolph also plays above the rim and blocks shots. Both are young, mid-20's and play enough defense to please Scott on that end.
Other notable FA's - Bill Walker, CJ Miles, Jodie Meeks, and OJ Mayo
If all went to how I would work it. The Cavs would sign Asik and Mayo. I would love Randolph, but with Thompson and Samuels there, I don't see a need at the PF spot. Beasley would also create a jam at SF and could potentially leave less time for MKG at the 3.
Here's a look at how the roster would break down for the 2012-2013 season.
PG - Irving, Sessions, Gibson
SG - Mayo, Alex Young
SF - Gee, Casspi, MKG
PF - Thompson, Samuels
C - Varejao, Asik
13-15 and D-league
Erdan, Eyenga, Pick 35 and 37
This roster leaves us a little short, but if Mayo isn't signed, Erdan or one of the big's picked in the 2nd round easily fill out the roster and give us a 5th big man. Picking Zeller or Plumlee late in the first round instead of Young also gives us that depth.
Big Move in 2013
Without really looking at the 2013 draft, the big acquistion I look for in 2013 is James Harden. The Thunder will have big money locked up in KD, Westbrook, Ibaka and Perkins. Someone will have to be the odd man out. With Gibson's contract expiring and Casspi off the books, thatwould leave the Cavs more space to sign a big name talent. Harden immediately solidifies the SG spot. Having him run the floor with Irving, Thompson, and MKG the Cavs would have a extremely young, yet experienced starting 5. A playoff run in 2013 is easily expected if Harden is added. The Cavs would have four roster spots filled for years to come.
I'm not saying this would be the perfect outcome for the Cavs. Things can change. The Cavs could actually compete at around .500 all year and potentially pick later in the first round. Maybe the Kings turn it around and the Cavs end up with 3 picks in round one and five total. Maye Varejao, Sessions, and Jamison are all gone by the end of the year. But if this is how the Cavs looked to end 2012 and to start 2013, I wouldn't be upset at all. The core seems to be coming together. Irving and Thompson will be cornerstones, now they just need to find another scorer and add depth and you could be looking at the Cavs being back in the playoff picture as early as 2013.
Brown's options later...
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Back on the Wagon
The Mailmen, despite not playing for two weeks, got back into their winning ways by taking care of Tune Squad, 69-62 this past Sunday.
"It was good to get back on the floor, we hate weeks off," Coach Jason Hunter said after, "it's where we struggled the most last year. A lot of our losses came after weeks off."
The Mailmen were limited depth wise. Center John Reminder missed the team bus to the game and was unavailable, leaving the team with only 6 players to dress.
Luckily, big man Kerry Hunter made his debut off of his knee surgery and had a fantastic showing. Hunter posted 10 points shooting 50% from the field (4/8) and hitting on two free throws (2/4). He also grabbed 7 rebounds, taking advantage of his size underneath.
"It was good to get back out there. I don't have the same lift yet...not that I had much to begin with," the veteran big man smiled, "but I'm glad to be back out there and helping us win."
The game looked to be in good hands after the first half. Leading 37-29 at the break, the good guys usually take their game to the next level in the second half. But weary legs seemed to take their toll as the Tune Squad hit 15 three pointers total, eight of them coming late in the second half. The lead was cut to four late, but some free throws from Brandon Hunter and Kerry Hunter sealed the victory.
Brandon Hunter paced the team with 21 points and 14 rebounds. Kerry (10 points), Jason Hunter (11 points), and Pat Cripple (11 points) also added double digit scoring. Andy Kempf and Mike Giardina, 7 rebounds a piece, helped control the glass.
The Mailmen take on Team Eric this coming Sunday. Team Eric was 0-3 as of this writing.
"It was good to get back on the floor, we hate weeks off," Coach Jason Hunter said after, "it's where we struggled the most last year. A lot of our losses came after weeks off."
The Mailmen were limited depth wise. Center John Reminder missed the team bus to the game and was unavailable, leaving the team with only 6 players to dress.
Luckily, big man Kerry Hunter made his debut off of his knee surgery and had a fantastic showing. Hunter posted 10 points shooting 50% from the field (4/8) and hitting on two free throws (2/4). He also grabbed 7 rebounds, taking advantage of his size underneath.
"It was good to get back out there. I don't have the same lift yet...not that I had much to begin with," the veteran big man smiled, "but I'm glad to be back out there and helping us win."
The game looked to be in good hands after the first half. Leading 37-29 at the break, the good guys usually take their game to the next level in the second half. But weary legs seemed to take their toll as the Tune Squad hit 15 three pointers total, eight of them coming late in the second half. The lead was cut to four late, but some free throws from Brandon Hunter and Kerry Hunter sealed the victory.
Brandon Hunter paced the team with 21 points and 14 rebounds. Kerry (10 points), Jason Hunter (11 points), and Pat Cripple (11 points) also added double digit scoring. Andy Kempf and Mike Giardina, 7 rebounds a piece, helped control the glass.
The Mailmen take on Team Eric this coming Sunday. Team Eric was 0-3 as of this writing.
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