ESPN

David Thorpe

  (12:00 PM)

Ah, it's nice to be able to chat with you today from my own office rather than Coach Moreau's down at IMG. Taking a day off from training. Here, I have access to my Itunes, so we're blessed to chat with Bizet's famed "Carmen" blasting throughout this space. Think "Bad News Bears" if you have not heard of this great opera before."Because I'm a karate man...I bruise on the inside".

Zack (New York)

Does Josh Smith have a "fixable" jump shot?

David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

Certainly. Though I think a course on shot selection should come first.

steven clarkston,mi

does patrick ewing jr have a chance to make it on the knicks?

David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

Very slight.

Ryan (IL)

Can the bulls win with the team they have now or do they need to make a trade?

David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

Win what? Playoffs, yes. A title, no. Not yet, anyway.

Michael (MTL,QC)

Thorpe! How does the addition of Donte Greene impact fellow rookie Jason Thompson? Can they play together?

David Thorpe

  (12:02 PM)

Sure, one's a 3 and the other a 4. I like their upsides a great deal. Their work ethic remains to be seen.

Kool (Bronx, NY)

What should Chicago do about the Ben Gordon situation?

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

Keep trying to convince him that $60 mil is a lot of money.

Michael ( MTL , QC)

Thorpedo! Your thoughts on the Leagues newest rookie, Hamed Haddadi? Reminds me of Michael Olowokandi...You sold me ladies' frames!

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

I watched him in Utah. Zzzzzzz.

Jon (Ann Arbor)

What do you think of the Heat's signing of Magloire? Does he have anything left in the tank? Can he become a good rebounder/defender?

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

Zzzzz.

Kristian (Zagreb, Croatia)

How tough is to work with a player who does not have great understanding of the game?

David Thorpe

  (12:04 PM)

Not any tougher than someone who gets it but has no skills. Teaching is teaching, no matter the subject.

Gilad (Atlanta, GA)

I heard in the media that you are working with Israeli sensation, Omri Casspi. I saw him play twice last season and think he is the top internatinal prospect for the NBA -- a top 5 pick with HUGE upside. Can you provide some insight on his game?

David Thorpe

  (12:06 PM)

"Working with" is too strong. I'm pleased that Omri reaches out to me to discuss his development. He's an extremely exciting talent who plays with a monster heart and is very productive. Lottery seems likely provided he plays well this year.

MIchael (MTL, QC)

Billy Ray Valentine!

David Thorpe

  (12:06 PM)

Seeing Eddie Murphy now only makes me sad. He was beyond brilliant back in the day.

Ryan (NY, NY)

Hey Thorpester, 3 years from now... Bynum or Oden?

David Thorpe

  (12:07 PM)

Ask me in a year-I'd like to see GO play first.

Paul (Portland, OR)

I watched Magloire two years ago with the Blazers. He has the slowest feet I've ever seen.

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

Yes, but I'd advise you to watch the Brad Miller youtube video of him "chasing" down a loose ball. Hilarity for all (I'm laughing now just thinking about it).

Ryan (IL)

Jason Thompson or Michael Beasley? Who will be better in a couple of years?

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

You are risking a ban for that.

tzaf (athens, Greece)

Is there any possibility to see Kostas Koufos having an important role this year with Jazz?

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

Very very doubtful.

Rod NL Canada

Hey Dave...I heard Bargnani is working hard this summer. Your thoughts...is he a bust or just taking a bit more time to find his "place" in Toronto and in the NBA?

David Thorpe

  (12:09 PM)

I've heard similar things. This will be the key year to evaluate. I'm rooting for him and think he can be an integral player for them.

Ryan, Chicago

I am the worst jump shooter in the world. Are good jump shooters born or are they made through pratice.

David Thorpe

  (12:09 PM)

Both.

Borna (Tucson, AZ

How do you feel about the suns trading Strawberry for Singletary when hes not even gonna be a 3rd option

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

Odd, I think.

Orlando (Guadalajara, Mexico)

Hey David! Do you think the experience of playing with other great superstars on a an actual "team" has helped Team USA's members improve their individual games? Any examples?

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

No, I think the "teamwork" issue is extremely overrated as it relates to Team USA. They out hustled, outbeasted, and outdefended the competition.

Ezra, New York

What do you think the ceiling is for Knicks draft pick Danilo Gallinari? Average role player?

David Thorpe

  (12:11 PM)

Higher than that.

Dylan

Do you think Rudy Fernandez will get over 20 minutes a game this year? and will Louis Williams start for the Sixers?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

Not initially, but perhaps by season's end. Not sure about LW yet.

G$ Washington, D.C.

Dave, how can I improve my crossover dribble?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

Keep it low and tight. Push off hard with the leg opposite the direction you are going.

Adam (Austin)

I cant find this brad miller video on YouTube. can you send out the link? Thanks!

David Thorpe

  (12:13 PM)

I think I saw it on Sactown Royalty last year. Can anyone help?

Trey (Texas)

You had the Mavs picked for the Championship last season. Where do you have them this year?

David Thorpe

  (12:13 PM)

Not.

Ryan (IL)

How many more years does Jason Kidd and Shaq have left?

David Thorpe

  (12:13 PM)

Negative 2.

John Coughee - Chicago

IF your opinion is Beasley really better suited tp play the 3 in the NBA? Can he make the transition?

David Thorpe

  (12:14 PM)

No, but playing it in spots makes sense.

josh (paris, France)

Denver is rebuilding some are saying... Iverson (in his juicy final contract year) could be on the move in the next few months ?

David Thorpe

  (12:14 PM)

I agree.

James (Seattle,Wa_

Yo David,Do you think my city will ever see NBA basketball again?

David Thorpe

  (12:15 PM)

I sincerely hope so.

Matt, Indiana

Miller beats Kaman!!!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GuzAbnr_4bYandfeature=related

David Thorpe

  (12:15 PM)

Thanks. Enjoy.

Mike, NYC

Tyrus Thomas or Drew Gooden for the Bulls at power forward?

David Thorpe

  (12:16 PM)

Maybe both to start?!!

Brandon, LA

Which record is more untouchable, Stocton's assist total ot Kareem's point total?

David Thorpe

  (12:16 PM)

Cap's.

Will (Ellicott City, MD)

Coach Thorpe - if there's an award for "Best in Chat" you'll win it. My question: It's been said that Riles won't start a rook at the 1. D-Wade says Chalmers will do just that. New coach Spoelstra says they'll enter camp with Banks as the starting PG (makes sense to see if Chalmers can win the job before annointing him the starter). How much influence does D-Wade have on whether or not Chalmers starts?

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

Thanks! Starting Chalmers right away seems rash. Let him earn time while figuring things. PS-can someone tell me what he shot from the field this summer? I remember it being low.

Orlando FL

How do you think Dwayne Wade's dominance of the ball will mix with Beasley's game?

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

Fantastic.

greg (Union City, Iowa)

can Hinrich become an elite guard in this league?

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

I don't think so, but he can get to the level just below that. Vinny will be great for him.

Jason (baltimore)

have u seen cavs rookie Hickson play yet? i have no idea how good (or bad) this guy is. any input?

David Thorpe

  (12:19 PM)

I think he can be really good. Maybe the steal of the draft.

SteveFitz (Cicero, IL)

David, why has the Ben Gordon situation gotten to the point that it has? What's his leverage for more money and are any other teams willing to offer more in a sign and trade? I just don't see it.

David Thorpe

  (12:19 PM)

Honestly, the whole saga reads like a Greek Tragedy.

Ray (SD, CA)

Thorpe, I've never played organized basketball or received coaching, but want to improve for weekend pick-up games. Any basic drills/tips to start with?

David Thorpe

  (12:20 PM)

Sure. Set lots of screens. Hustle for every loose ball. And learn to finish layups with either hand.

Scott (Boston, MA)

Do you think Steve Blake is in the cards for the Blazers down the road? Are they in greater need of a PG or SF?

David Thorpe

  (12:20 PM)

No, I don't.

Newmarket Ontario

Dave,When do you think Ricky Rubio will make the jump to the NBA and is he going to be an impact point?

David Thorpe

  (12:21 PM)

June 2009 top 4 draft pick. He'll be a solid contributor within 2 seasons.

John( Houston, TX)

Yo thorpe...I love your answers man. THey are hilarous. How do u rate the rockets this year?

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

Thanks. "Most likely to disappoint" would be my guess. But, no team impressed me more, in terms of sheer toughness, than Houston did in April.

Jake (New Jersey)

Do you see Francisco Garcia as a 30 minute a night 12-15 ppg guy this season?

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

Yes.

Alex ( Zagreb, Croatia )

David can you give me your toth`s on how big inpact will have Roko (Leni) Ukic in Toronto`s rotation ?!

David Thorpe

  (12:23 PM)

As a backup pg, I think he may be in over his head. Worth following early on.

Matt (Champaign, IL)

Hi Dave, is Loul Deng poised to have an all-star caliber year - given his resolved contract status, the work he's put in over the summer, and the addition of Rose?

David Thorpe

  (12:23 PM)

I think just being totally healthy is the biggest key.

jim (santa cruz)

chalmers summer stats: 16/40 FG, 4/17 3pt, 43/47 FT

David Thorpe

  (12:24 PM)

Thanks.

Charles (Albuquerque, New Mexico)

Thorpe,Where do you have the Cavs finishing this year? and will the williams pick up really improve their chances to get back to the finals?

David Thorpe

  (12:24 PM)

Top 4 in East, and a contender for the throne.

Will, DC

"That's called the 'quart of blood' technique. You do that, a quart of blood will drop out of a man's body." Does Donyell Marshall have anything left in the tank to give the Sixers?

David Thorpe

  (12:25 PM)

I've already answered the Marshall query, but had to post this thanks to that great quote.

Kool (Bronx, NY)

Be honest, how many WNBA games have you seen this year? zero?

David Thorpe

  (12:26 PM)

Honestly, I didn't know they were even playing. Between the Rays, work, and family, plus the Olympics, I've lost track of everything else.

AJ (Cleve, OH)

Any advice for wannabe coaches?

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

Read books. Study tape. Network a ton. And coach as many games as possible while learning player development. 80 hours a week, at minimum, is the ticket.

Chris (Phoenix)

I know your a huge Bosh fan, but who would you rather have Bosh or Amare?

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

Bosh. Amare more talented but more of a headache too.

Tim(Omaha)

Good morning Coach, I'm a coach too. You haven't mentioned any of the books you've read recently. What's the Thorpedo reading that helps you with the players at your Pro Training Center?

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

A bio on the Patriots coach. Dungy's autobio. Both excellent reads. But currently working on "What is the What". Maybe the most important book I've ever picked up. Moving beyond words.

Ben (Minneapolis)

You're starting a team and get any two players in the league...who do you take?

David Thorpe

  (12:30 PM)

Bron and Dwight. Wade just too injury prone.

Ben (Austin, TX)

Is Carl Landry really as good as his PER suggests?

David Thorpe

  (12:30 PM)

Yes, he's special.

Chazz Reinhold

Hey Thorpe! Can we get some meatloaf?

David Thorpe

  (12:30 PM)

I was just thinking of that line the other day. Thanks!

Stan (Cleveland)

what happened to your claim that team usa had only a one in four chance of winning the gold??

David Thorpe

  (12:31 PM)

Their chance came in!! They played far more inspired than I would have expected. I couldn't be prouder of them.

Trey (Texas)

What's your favorite type of hot sandwich?

David Thorpe

  (12:33 PM)

The Gator Tail from Joe's Deli in Gainesville. Shared about a thousand of them with my friend Mike back in the 80's. Awesome stuff.

Vijay (Orlando)

I just moved to Orlando to work for NASA. Would you say it will be worth getting Magic season tickets?

David Thorpe

  (12:33 PM)

Oh yea.

Drew (Boston)

Are the Lakers in big trouble with Josh Powell and Chris Mihm as backup big men?

David Thorpe

  (12:33 PM)

Just trouble, not big trouble.

Doug (NY)

if you were starting a team w 3 players, would 3rd be CP3?

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

Probably.

Nick, London

Like all Australians I'm interested in Nathan Jawai, will he get any back-up time this season and will he be any good?

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

I see him as a very long term project.

Michael (Sydney)

Do you think the Spurs championship days are over?

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

No.

Paul (Portland, OR)

Don't know how much you follow football, but if you've read the Belicick bio, what do you think of him. It seems people love or hate him.

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

I read Halberstam's. Guy was born and raised to be a coach.

Pat (Houston)

Does Kobe crack the Top Five greatest player of all time?

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

Moreau and I are about to add Kareem to the Jordan Magic Bird Club. Official announcement will come soon. Kobe is a long way off for the #5 spot.

Doug (NY)

Do you think the Knicks championship days will ever begin?

David Thorpe

  (12:37 PM)

2-3 years before they can contend.

Saul (Cincy, OH)

Thorpe,can we get a Justin Cage update? You loved him last year, and we've all loved him since his freshman year.

David Thorpe

  (12:38 PM)

My man JC just competed his first ever competition in Europe, playing for a team in Belgium. They played a number of good teams, including the best team from France's Pro A league. JC's team, Liege, won every game and he was named MVP! Unheard of for a rookie. The NBA made a mistake. There's always next year.

PG (from over here)

Thopedo-meister, I don't get your "let me see Oden play" before deciding between him and Bynum. Oden didn't even dominate in college except for the occasional game, didn't average double digit rebounds and never bothered to learn to use his left hand until he broke the right one - never mind his history of bad foul trouble. Meanwhile, Bynum started dominating against grown men in the NBA night in and night out, using both hands, and averaged more rebounds and an obscene 70% from the field while anchoring the defense as the months were wearing on prior to injury. I don't even think it's a question at this point, unless and until Oden makes it a question. This is one of the instances where some of you get so caught up in one guy having all the hype while the other just quietly grows into a monster, that you don't bother to readjust your views with the FACTS.

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

Stop with the Kool Aid.

Georgio

I've never had a question answered, do you think eliminating the salary cap would be good or bad for basketball?

David Thorpe

  (12:40 PM)

Bad. You are welcome.

Venkat: (India)

What are the Pacers weaknesses going into this season?

David Thorpe

  (12:40 PM)

Venkat!! Welcome back. Shooting, ballhandling, interior defense, etc.

JT (Rockledge, FL)

Hey, David! The Magic are loathe to exceed the tax threshold this year. Yet, in the past Bob VanderWeide has said they wouldn't hesitate to pay the tax "for the right guy." Going into his option year, do you think that Hedo Turkoglu is that guy?

David Thorpe

  (12:41 PM)

Not exactly. But he is very valuable. Part of the solution, and definitely underrated.

Prince Hakeem

MERRY NEW YEAR! What should Pistons fans expect from the team this year? Will Amir finally get some tick?

David Thorpe

  (12:42 PM)

Amir should play some, but it seems the Pistons window has closed.

PG (from over here)

THORPEDO-MEISTER, what about my earlier "kool aid" post is factually wrong? It's absolutely ACCURATE, buddy. Seems like you're the one drinking the Kool aid because I brought you facts.

David Thorpe

  (12:44 PM)

I don't remember Bynum dominating his rookie year, or his second season. Let's see who looks more promising come March. It's a tossup as I see it.

Marcos B. (Puerto Rico)

How good can Robin Lopez be?

David Thorpe

  (12:44 PM)

Pretty good as an energy guy off the bench, this year. Maybe a starter later on. I like him.

Milt (nyc)

Mr. Thorpe--what are your thoughts on the job Coach K did with Team USA? Was he a significant factor in the gold or simply fortunate to be coaching great talent?

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

In a word; magnificent. I'd like us to choose another college coach for 2012.

Shuhan, Madison WI

Hey David, great chat. Do you think Hinrich is equipped to play the SG if the Bulls find a taker for Gordon? I feel like shooting gaurds need to be able to shoot....

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

He'll play there some, for sure.

David Thorpe

  (12:46 PM)

And he can be effective there too.

Rory(Sacramento)

Brad Miller to the Heat. I know itisn't being talked about, but I think it should. What do you think? Blount, filler contract, and a draft pick.

David Thorpe

  (12:46 PM)

Interesting.

eric (santa cruz, ca)

Anthony Randolph. Will he play this year? And will he be more of a Lamar odom or KG? thanks

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

Nellie loves him, so he may play some. He's more LO than KG.

Mark, WI

Bo Ryan for 2012

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

Ugh.

A.J. (Sioux Falls, SD)

What's the best case scenario for C. Lee and M. Peitrus?

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

Start the vet, let the rook come off the bench.

Art Vandelley

Stockton asist record is almost imposible to reach but Cap's point record will end when Lebron fly by his side.

David Thorpe

  (12:48 PM)

Can someone figure out how long LBJ would have to play to catch Cap?

nyles (Phili, PA)

Haslem, Beasley, Marion just can't work out - theres just not enough size - who will get moved and to where?

David Thorpe

  (12:49 PM)

Haslem and/or Marion, likely.

Jon (boston, ma)

Ben Howland or Roy Williams for 2012?

David Thorpe

  (12:49 PM)

Either. Izzo, Tubby too. Pitino would be great.

Tom (England)

Can Al Jefferson make the All Star game this year? How good can he be?

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

Yes. He's a dynamite guy on offense.

Chris (Glendale, AZ)

D-wade in my opinion played awesome in the olympics defensively and offensively would you say he's back to the d-wade we saw in the season the won the title

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

Yes.

A.J. (Sioux Falls, SD)

Didn't you propose Tubby Smith as 2012 coach? Now there's an "Ugh!"

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

Players love playing for him, and he gets guys to really defend while pushing the ball on offense.

tre (Orange County)

Balkman looks buried behind Mello, Kleiza and JR Smith - is he done in this league or can he be something special and force Karl to play him and become a solid NBA player on into the future?

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

Next stop-Poland.

Steve Fitz (Cicero, IL)

David, look into your crystal ball and take a stab at the biggest name that gets traded at this years deadline.

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

Marion.

Intimidating Black Guy

"YEAH!"

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

Said with a deep "Jim Brown" voice.

Chinesse Olympic Committee

Get those people back in here!! Turn those machines back on!!

Jay (Chicago)

Drew Gooden starting? Are you not sold with Joakim Noah's offseason?

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

He got hurt in Vegas. Not sure of the details.

Dave (toronto)

Can the Raps make it out of the first round this year?

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

Yes!!

Matt (pdx)

thorpe, who makes you more annoyed, people asking the same question, or people like PG thinking Oden didnt dominate in college?

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

Neither. They just make me laugh.

Wade (Miami, FL)

I bet I carry my team into the play-offs and will be in extreme contention for MVP of the league this season...injury prone? I'll prove you wrong Mr. Thorpe!

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

Ok.

George (Denver, CO)

Can JR Smith's shot be fixed?

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

His shot is terrific. His mind, not so much.

Trey (Texas)

What does annoy you, then?

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

Small minded NBA execs, for starters.

Doug (NY)

13 or 14 more years of Bron scoring about 2K to catch Kareem

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

Thanks. Not easy, huh.

Janice

If you have to pick one player in the NBA to win in an UFC match, who would you pick? Carmelo can be the dark horse, he runs away pretty fast after slapping.

David Thorpe

  (12:57 PM)

I've written this before-Haslem vs. Reggie Evans would be a tough blood bath.

Mike (DC)

Why do you think Kareem is the best center of all time? Wouldn't Shaq or Hakeem in their primes do a great job defending him?

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

Best low post threat ever. Multiple first team all-defense awards. 6 titles in a very competitive era.

Darko "Donnie" Milicic

Even if I dont win the fight, I'll have plenty to say afterwards about the officials mothers, daughters, and wives!

David Thorpe

  (12:59 PM)

Nice!

Matt (Houston)

Joey Dorsey would Destroy all in the octagon!!

David Thorpe

  (12:59 PM)

No chance. But Craig Smith would be a load to defeat.

David Thorpe

  (1:01 PM)

Time to go. Thanks everyone and see you all next week. And say a prayer for Kevin Martin and his dad, who lost Dallas Martin on Friday. Kevin's grandfather was a huge influence on his life and a big reason Kevin is the special young man he is today. Thanks!!