The Dime Drop

The Dime Drop. Ten smooth facts, comments, and personal notes written in bullet form. Feel free to enjoy or hate everything is spilled in the Dime Drop. While they’re isn’t much harder assist machines John Stockton and Mark Jackson, the Dime Drop’s consistency of being written this season is humbly kept under the influence of both of these two seam droppers.

• After another promising 07-08 season, (18.8 ppg., 10.5 apg), and a lone playoff run that left fans gasping, Deron Williams finally gets paid, after agreeing to a contract extention with his Jazz.

• While it’s still Summer League ball, it’s definitely fulfilling for me to see Jerryd Bayless completely take over games with his clutch play, resulting in him being T-Mobile’s NBA Summer League Top Rookie.
• The loss of Baron Davis resulted in the signings of Corey Maggette and Ronny Turiaf. None of these players replenish the gaping hole of a primary, dangerous point guard to fit Don Nelson’s offense. The Warriors’ current roster is filled with Ellis, Belinelli and a bunch of oversized guards. So, the swarming news regarding the Warriors’ new desperate chase towards Louis Williams isn’t surprising.
• While being the 28th pick in the Draft, Donte Greene most likely earned himself some future playing time with the Rockets with his Summer League performance. Greene averaged 22.6 points, including a 40-point debut during the Summer League.
• Darius Miles comeback to the NBA is near. His suspension from the NBA stemmed from Miles taking a weight-loss drug, and his potential career-ending knee injury led him to be waived by the Blazers. While that’s besides the story, Darius is still only 26 years young and will attract interest from some teams such as the Mavericks and the Celtics.
• Through the loss of Elton Brand, the Clippers possess one of the most interesting rosters heading into the 2008-2009 season. The likes of the Baron Davis, Al Thornton, Marcus Camby, Chris Kaman and Eric Gordon make this team something worth watching if you’re either blessed with living the LA area or plan to order NBA League Pass.
• Three weeks into Free Agency, Josh Smith is still waiting for a fat contact offer from a team (most likely the Hawks) looking to spend big bucks for his play. The problem remains, all of the teams in the league either don’t have the money or don’t need a player like Smith on their roster.
• High School ballaholic, Brandon Jennings carved his own path to the NBA by grabbing money early and skipping college with his 3-year deal with a team in Italy. While Jennings is the first kid to ever make this move since the NBA’s age restriction was implied, this route by Jennings could become a common path for other money hungry high school ballers across the world.
• The newly relocated, OKC Franchise will be named the Oklahoma City Thunder for the 2008-2009 season. The newly polished franchise will set up a fresh career for last year’s Rookie of the Year, Kevin Durant, who averaged 20.3 ppg. and 4.4 rpg.
• Devean George’s days as a Maverick are numbered, but it’s not like he cares much, considering the money thats coming his way. It appears as though teams such as the Celtics, Spurs, Suns, T’Wolves, Cavaliers and the Hornets are interested in 6′8” small forward.

Brand New

It’s official. After seven years, the Philadelphia 76ers are once again a force to be recognized. The words, “Elton Brand” will flood the streets of Philadelphia for the rest of this summer until tip-off, when the packed Wachovia Center will be speechless until Brand nets his first bucket as a Sixer. This is it. The Sixers front office and Ed Stefanski strike gold in a move to force the organization to shine a light on what was once a poorly faithful bunch of ballers. After the departure of Philadelphia’s complete heart, Allen Iverson, the Sixers bring home a prime superstar ball player in Elton Brand.

Elton Brand is the forgotten superstar, more so, one of the most slept-on 20-10 guys the League has. Elton Brand’s exposure has been stabbed with his humble personality along with his dreary team, the Clippers. The 2-time All Star finally helped make some noise for the Clippers back in the 2006 playoffs, when they were one win away from advancing to the Conference Finals. Even after that, Brand was dealt the respect and attention he well deserved after many seasons. His NBA career began during Chicago’s rebuilding era. The 98-99 Bulls were then a team struggling to find wins with a record of 13-37 during NBA’s lockout season.

The horrible record landed Chicago the number one draft pick in the 1999 Draft, where they picked Brand. Brand quickly averaged 20.1 points per game, 10 rebounds per game and 1.6 blocks per game in 80 games as a rookie, earning himself the Co-Rookie of the Year award. Playing alongside aging players such as Toni Kukoc, Hersey Hawkins, Randy Brown and a 20-year-old Ron Artest, the Bulls stunk a 17-65 record. The following season brought forth the same results, a 15-67 record with Brand freakishly averaging the same amount of points, blocks and rebounds while bringing his assists per game up from 1.9 to 3.2. Elton was then traded to the Clippers in 2001 for Brian Skinner and Tyson Chandler. His arrival in the L.A. Clippers was apprehended as one of the three fan-favorite baller trio’s consisting of Quentin Richardson and Darius Miles. The Clippers blossomed with quality players to accompany Brand such as Corey Maggette, Andre Miller and Lamar Odom but the groups never stirred together to form as a playoff contender. While averaging impressive stats, Brand was cursed with overwhelmingly mediocure seasons with the Clippers for five seasons. In 2006, after the Clippers got eliminated from the playoffs after a valiant effort, Brand was set to take his team farther the following season, but failed to do so after missing the playoffs. Elton Brand’s 07-08 season became a disappointment for the power forward, after he suffered a critical Achilles injury he was sidelined for a total of 74 games. Brand showed great signs of recovery for the Clippers late in the season and played solid in a few games to give Clippers fans a positive energy for the following season if he came back the following season. The word “if” stemmed from the fact that Brand was to become an unrestricted free agent in the off season, allowing him to opt out of his contact with the Clippers. The front office for the Clippers made the big moves to attract Brand to come back, drafting shining rookies, Eric Gordon and DeAndre Jordan. Clips weren’t done yet, to promise a bigger chance at being a true contender in the West, the Clippers signed Baron Davis, making it nearly impossible for Elton Brand to turn down his future with the L.A. Clippers.

But impossible is a word that is stretched and bent in the world of sports. Tuesday afternoon when the word came in that Philadelphia has traded away a young Rodney Carney, along with Calvin Booth and a draft pick to Minnesota for a draft pick and most importantly, some cap room, it was apparent that Philadelphia had Brand in its cross hairs. But nothing was assuring until Brand accepted the 5-year deal, worth 82 million, leaving the Clippers with their jaws dropped.

There will be plenty of new Sixers fans, haters, predictions and wonders now that Brand is in the Sixers’ front line. His presence was something the team of Philadelphia fell absent to for many years, with many years being the Charles Barkley years (Sorry, Coleman and Mutombo don’t count). Guards, excluding the Bryant and LeBron tier, will think twice about taking the ball into Philly’s big men. The move sits Reggie Evans back in the bench, where he belongs. Evan’s spark off the bench, along with Lou Williams’ scoring will give Cheeks the comfort to flex his minutes. We also can’t forget the young rookie, Marreese Speights a 6′10”, 250 pound low-post banger. Philadelphia’s starting line-up looks relatively talented as it may be, Andre Miller, Willie Green, Andre Iguodala, Elton Brand and Samuel Dalembert. The Sixers are finally a legit playoff contender for a set of years to come. They could easily become a title contender with another move or two done by the Sixers’ front office, but that’s to be seen.

Philadelphia’s chase for Atlanta’s Josh Smith will regretfully be dimmed due to this big move. It’s not good to count anything out yet, but only to be realistic. Josh Smith’s explosiveness will be the biggest thing missed by Philadelphia that the young power forward offered. With Elton Brand, the Sixers have a better power forward who has his own set of moves down low, a good rebound sense and who owns a much better jump shot. Brand is an undersized power forward that uses his wide body to become one of the best rebounders, he has great defensive play that produces blocks and a variety of contested shots for his opponent. Elton has easily become a 20 and 10 player for many seasons, in Philadelphia it will only expand. Brand will share his ground with Samuel Dalembert, who has a complete opposite make-up, being lengthy and slim but who’s also become a fiend for boards and blocks in this league. When it comes to the post-season, Philadelphia saw their star Iguoodala struggle when they needed him the most. They will now have another player to turn to with Brand when the big games come around, Brand put up 25 ppg., 10rpg. and 4 apg.

The city of Philadelphia and all its fans now have another reason to cheer for their 76ers this season. Being blessed with talented, humble players that are on the team to get the job done and get back into the NBA Finals after being carried there five years ago by a lonesome killer. The Sixers have an ultimate mix of youth and veterans in their line-up for the set of years to come. The Brand deal put the final stamp on the reality that their Allen Iverson is really gone. The Sixers have one of the four active players that average 20 and 10 in the league. Brand will face all the lights in his first year in Philadelphia, the Sixers have a tendency to bring home a big name during their downward spiral of their career, from Glenn Robinson to Chris Webber. Brand is still just 29 and has plenty left in his tank to pour some glory for Philadelphia before it’s too late. This is the breaking point for Brand, when it comes to being recognized as a reliable leader, with the ultimate help from another pioneer with former teammate Andre Miller, Brand and the Sixers could take the East by storm if Stefanski continues to play the cards right.

The fastbreak finishes by Iguodala, defense by Dalembert and Brand and the zip passes by Miller could be the complete remedy Philadelphia needs to make them a higher seed in the playoffs after being 7th last season. Betting on another move by Stefanski can be classified as an act of selfishness. But it’s completely understandable with Willie Green filling the starting two guard spot. GM, Ed Stefanski has proved to be one of the smarter managers the city of Philadelphia heavily needed and we are beginning to see why. It only to wonder what would’ve Stefanski would’ve done before Billy King lost his mind and threw away Iverson. But that’s the past, the future is labeled “Brand New” with the trio of Elton Brand, Andre Iguodala and Andre Miller leading the Philadelphia 76ers’ circuit.

Philly Bound?

Word all over the press has it, the Philadelphia 76ers and Elton Brand are set to have a 5-year, 82 Mil deal that brings Brand to Philadelphia. After shipping swingman, Rodney Carney, Calvin Booth and a future first round pick to Minnesota for a second round draft pick and some cap room, Philadelphia has made it evident that they’re set to bring home the big man. The deal is still not official until Wednesday, when players may begin signing contacts. It is not a complete fact that Brand is going to Philly, with other teams still swarming the big forward. Many would have enjoyed Josh Smith’s explosiveness in the Philadelphia fastbreak, but it has become a tough task for Philly to handle with Atlanta keeping a keen eye on Smith. A source has said that Brand’s odds are “70-30,” leaning towards Philadelphia. Stefanski and the Sixers are expected to aim at Josh Smith if Brand turns down the offer. The final word on who goes where could told starting tomorrow.

It appears the Orlando Magic have bagged 25-year-old, Mickael Pietrus in a 4-year deal worth 24 million. Mickael shared the guard/forward duties for Golden State for five years, averaging 8.6 pgg in 21 minutes per game. The 6′6” swingman should see plenty of more minutes when heading to Orlando.

Mickael Pietrus was targeted by the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and the Detroit Pistons. He averaged 7.2 points and 3.7 rebounds last season with the Warriors. Pietrus’ perimeter shooting is one of the finest in the league, the move will allow the Orlando to spread the floor even more for center, Dwight Howard.

Money Talks

Wash Wizards to strike Gilbert Arenas with a 6-year $126 Mil deal.

126 Mil? Yikes. Agent Zero will be seeing nothing but a bunch of zero’s behind that “$126.” The deadly free agent from the Wizards dealt his way to stay in Washington for a fat deal, while successfully keeping Jamison in the bunch for four years, worth $50 Million. After the deal Jamison received a text message from Gil saying he’s “confident” that he’ll return to Washington. Sad news for Philadelphia fans, since it was rumored that Philadelphia was ready to offer Jamison $11 million in the salary cap space they had available for the following season.

Baron Davis to stay in Cali for five more years, worth $65 mil.

The homegrown point guard out of LA has reached a verbal agreement with the Los Angeles Clippers to sign the five year contract. This couldn’t be a sexier team for BDiddy to express his skills. The Clips ended up in last place in their division, with a record of 23-59. Behind such point guards as Dan Dickau and Brevin Knight after letting go of Cassell, the Clippers were due for a prime point guard. While difficult, if the Clippers manage to keep both Brand and Maggette, expect a tight race for the 8th playoff spot for the Clippers next season.

Philly still on hold regarding Free Agency, add two players to Summer League team.

After losing their chances at Jamison and possibly Brand soon. It appears Philadelphia might be aiming at Jose Calderon, Josh Childress, Josh Smith or Corey Maggette. To be more resourceful, it is expected that Philadelphia will meet with Josh Smith today, Wednesday, to try and haul in the 6′9” forward. Even though the Hawks already expressed the fact that they’ll match any offer, it will be difficult for Atlanta to do while trying to keep Childress and facing Philly’s 11 million cap space to fight for Smith. Regarding the summer league team, it has already been said Philadelphia will add Pat Carrol. The other player added was Arizona guard, Jawann McClellan. Here’s a nifty clip of McClellan ripping the court. (Don’t get too excited though, it’s only a pickup game.)

Mavs sign Gerald Green in first day of Free Agency

After going from Slam Dunk champ to being cut from the Houston Rockets, Gerald Green’s NBA hopes remain alive after agreeing to a 1-year deal with the Dallas Mavericks. The 22-year-old swingman, was the 2007 NBA Slam Dunk Champion. After being traded from the T’Wolves to the Rockets, Houston let go of Green. Gerald has averaged 8.1 ppg and 2.2 rpg. throughout his whole career. He only played one game for Houston for four minutes and scored 6 points. Green’s career has been marked with lack of intensity. His skill will be tested in Dallas’ high-octane offense this season for a year.

Philly’s time?

Out of all the teams shopping in the free agency this off season, the Philadelphia 76ers are one of the top teams to make the push to bring home a big name. Other teams include Memphis and possibly the Clippers, depending on what Brand and Maggette do. With that said, let me cruise through the news Philadelphia has been spreading this summer.

It’s already been said, Sixers GM, Ed Stefanski won’t be afraid to pursue a big-time free agent this summer. The Sixers lack depth in a shooting guard and most importantly, a power forward. The players Philly could have their scope on include, Josh Smith, Brand or Maggette. Now that Jamison is off the market, the Sixers will focus harder on bringing home a big-time forward to the team before it’s too late.

Sixers did not make qualifying offers to Shavlik Randolph, Kevin Ollie, Louis Amundson and Herbert Hill leaving them as unrestricted free agents. The Sixers did, however make qualifying offers to Louis Williams and Andre Iguodala. The Sixers could really have around $20 million in cap space if they were to waive both Iguodala and Williams, but most likely they will end up keeping both studs, leaving them at around 11-12 mil in cap space for free agency this off season.

One player that’s apparently becoming the Sixers prime target is Josh Smith. Smith, who’s coming off a strong season of 17.2 points, 8.2 boards, 1.5 steals, 2.8 blocks, leaves teams drooling. It is really unlikely that Atlanta will be able to come into terms with both Josh Smith and Josh Childress to prevent other teams from giving each of them an offer sheet, so Philadelphia is well alive in this hunt for Josh Smith.

Stefanski’s only clue to who the Sixers are really going after are simply quoted as “Somebody good.” His statement doesn’t help much, considering there are also rumors of Philadelphia possibly aiming at bringing Andris Biedrins.

Other statements related towards the Sixers pursuit during the free agency by Stefanski include, “We’re trying to build like Detroit, meaning we’re not looking to have that one superstar, but we want to have a lot of good players on the floor together.”

Another important factor that remains in Philadelphia’s roster is the absence the team’s overall shooting ability. Stefanski responded, “Detroit is doing it with a different style than us, because our style is to be athletic and push the ball. I know (coach) Mo Cheeks wants me to get him a shooter because he asked me the other day if I could get him one or two. I want to, but we’re really looking for people who are athletic and long and defensive-minded. That’s our first priority.”

This doesn’t mean Philadelphia has completely cancelled out their possibilities of having another Korver-esque shooter. Recently, reports indicate that Philadelphia has invited sharpshooter, Pat Carroll to join the Sixers summer league team in Las Vegas.

With all this news, there’s nothing Philadelphia fans can do but stay tuned to what Philadelphia will be doing this off season. One thing for sure, Philadelphia’s roster will be significantly different compared to last year’s.

Davis Opts Out

After three seasons with Golden State, Baron Davis has exercised his opt-out clause Monday, making him a free agent. Expect, guard-hungry teams to chase this horse. Though his stock doesn’t pack a huge punch for the future at 29, Baron Davis brings scoring, dimes and attitude to a starting five. For the first time since the 2001-2002 season, Davis played all 82 season games for his Warriors, without missing a beat. This proves his knee is no longer a factor, at least when it comes to showing up. Davis averaged 21.8 ppg. last season, along with 7.6 apg. The 6′3” guard from UCLA, could be leaving his home of Cali to find a team who’s willing to prove a substantial deal along with a promising future. After the draft, there are plenty of teams that will take their shot at bringing Baron into the roster. Baron is one of the few big names of this off-season that will be tossed around in free agency conversations until a team gives him the right dollar. The Golden State Warriors didn’t see this one coming, making it big news for the NBA. Still, the Warriors will remain deadset on working a deal with Monta Ellis, after the 22-year-old’s strong season. Baron, along with other possible free agents such as Corey Maggette, Arenas and Jamison were the first ones to stike the first feed of free agency news on Monday.

Davis was traded to the Warriors on February 24, 2005 for Speedy Claxton and Dale Davis. The Hornets gave up on Davis and set their eye on a different face to lead their franchise after Davis’ nagging injuries. Baron Davis’ performance in the 2007 post-season gained him extreme notoriety and regained respect after becoming a ghost 2 years prior to that season. His high-octane play fit perfectly under Don Nelson’s system when playing for the Warriors. While finishing with a winning record of 48-34, Baron Davis and the Warriors missed the playoffs in 2008. To add to the sour ending, Davis was pulled by Nelson late in critical games due to his poor shooting. This could’ve been one of the factors leading to Davis’ decision to opt out of his contract this summer.