David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

Hi everyone. Let's cram in as much as we can, there's so much to discuss. I've got Wagner's "The Flying Dutchman" as my wingman, so let's get to it. "He's a freak. He's the fastest kid alive".

Pablo (BCN, Spain)

New Photo!! You look better than in the older one.

David Thorpe

  (12:02 PM)

Wow, we're starting right off with the compliments. It may indeed be a happy new year. Thanks!

Drayel(Wann)

Stuck at home with a daughter whose got the flu. Can you answer a question for me? Will Stuckey develop a 3 pt shot? Are there guys who just can't shoot it? Thanks Dave

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

There are many guys who never learn to shoot. But I'd bet RS at least gets to be an average one over time.

Stanley boston, MA

in this picture you look like that guy in this movie that went on a killing spree just because he lost his job.....

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

So maybe the new year won't be quite so happy.

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

alpo cleveland ohio [via mobile]

Whos was a better center hakim or ewing

David Thorpe

  (12:04 PM)

Dream.

Len (Dayton, OH)

So what do you think about the "crab dribble"

David Thorpe

  (12:05 PM)

I've been teaching that move for 2 decades. He absolutely traveled, but only because he didn't execute it correctly.

McLovin

Nice Superbad quote. How about CP3's game last night??? 32 points, 15 assists, and NO turnovers! Will the Hornets get their act together and compete with the Lakers for the West crown?

David Thorpe

  (12:05 PM)

I'd guess yes.

Joe (VA)

Coach, Hollinger has recently written that the Spurs have not been performing as well as their record suggests and are in danger of not making the playoffs. Based on what you've seen, do you agree with his assessment given how much tougher their schedule gets moving forward, or do you think they're rounding into form? Thanks!

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

I rarely disagree with him. But his numbers say what they say. They can't factor in intangibles, which the Spurs are steeped in. I like them.

Brian (McLean, VA)

what's the best way to teach young players (14-15 years old) to play against a zone defense? the team i coach is undefeated but our offense struggles against zones because most of the kids have never played against it.

David Thorpe

  (12:09 PM)

Screen the zone. Quick ball movements. Don't settle for perimeter shots. Pound the glass. Yep, that'll do it.

Jim (Boston)

How do you execute a "crab dribble" correctly? Lebron also needs to realize people don't need to have played pro-basketball to know what a travel is like when he criticized the anchors from Sportscenter.

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

True, but most announcers I've heard think he just made up that name. Absurd. His problem was taking 2 steps after the crab dribble. Had he jumped off both feet he'd have been within the rules.

Jim (Det)

Thorpe, Stuckey is actually shooting 38% on his 3's this year after shooting under 20% last year, so he's definitely making progress.

David Thorpe

  (12:11 PM)

Agreed. Thanks.

Marcus (Juarez, Mexico)

I'm a big Magic fan and love to read your stuff on ESPN.com! Help me out here, the Magic are still getting zero respect from "so called" experts such as Anthony Macri and Mike Moreau. Can you fix this for me and tell them that the Magic are contenders?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

I wasn't aware they felt that way, but I too feel they are a player away from having a truly legit shot at winning a ring. Those 2 are smart dudes, as is our other top coach, Dan Barto, so disagreeing with them is risky.

Brendan (Pittsfield, MA)

Thorpe, I know you're big on Ty Thomas and he seems to be "breaking out" (loosely used). Could we really be seeing his emergance, or is he just going to be an inconsistant player? second note. ..Would Spencer Hawes solve their problems? seems like a rebuild move to me, which might be the best idea ... your thoughts?

David Thorpe

  (12:14 PM)

Clearly I'm biased because I really love that young man, but I can easily slip on my analysts hat with TT. I still think his engine runs cold on occassion, but his numbers since December 2 are terrific, despite being on a roller coaster ride again. I think he's over 20 on PER since that date. And he's 13 months younger than LaMarcus Aldridge and 2 months younger than Al Horford.

Joe (NOLA)

when's David West going to start getting recognized as a star in the NBA? He may be the best shooting forward from 18-20 feet in the NBA. 40 and 11 last nite against the Lakers. Pretty big.

David Thorpe

  (12:15 PM)

Starting NOW.

Matt (Anchorage)

David, Good morning to you. Twenty below zero here in Los Anchorage--so the thought for the day--taken from the Tao I Ching: Knowing others is wisdom; Knowing the self is enlightenment. Mastering others requires force; Mastering the self requires strength; He who knows he has enough is rich. Perseverance is a sign of will power. He who stays where he is endures. To die but not to perish is to be eternally present.

David Thorpe

  (12:16 PM)

Add this: the key to a long lasting marriage is...bringing hope some chocolate when she least expects it!

Anthony (Arctic Circle)

David, Should the Raptors trade Bargnani now that he is playing decently?

David Thorpe

  (12:16 PM)

Yes.

Michael(Los Angeles, CA)

Who's idea was it for the Warriors to get 8 shooting guards on their team?

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

Phil Jackson's. He's so devious.

spence, edmonton

trivia question for you. Name the player who you worked with who is 2nd all time in Division 1 3Pt % all time....

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

I don't know. Rob Kurz? No-Steve Sir!!!!!

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

FYI-he trained with me AFTER he set that record.

jay. montreal

who is the best PF between lamarcus aldridge and CB4

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

CB$.

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

I typed $ on purpose.

Adam (St. Louis, MO)

Dr Thorpedo, I was wondering, what's your take on the notion of Celtics, namely KG, being a "bully" out there. It's obviously part of the game - intimidation and what not - but do you think maybe there is a line that is crossed where it reaches disrespect and arrogance?

David Thorpe

  (12:20 PM)

The line is crossed when his actions serve as motivators for the other guys. And I'm here to tell you that players in this league hate Boston right now more so than any other team.

Cosmo (Anytown, USA)

Are you going to be sad tonight when the Sooners win?

David Thorpe

  (12:20 PM)

Maybe. But if they win tomorrow, yes.

Tim (Atl)

David, I'm graduating college in a few months and when asked by my advisor here what do I hope to become, I said that I wanted to have a career like you. How is that possible, to be able to teach the game and understand the way you do, and write about it too? What was your key to success?

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

Not enough time to answer properly, but I've had a ton of luck mixed in with some work. My wife would say I'm a borderline workaholic. I don't agree, but there you have it. Playing for and working with smart coaches have helped a great deal too.

jeff la california [via mobile]

Thorpe, given the talent differences among the nba teams when Coach Red Aubach did so well with the celtics during a much weaker nba... how easy is it to argue, Phil Jackson is the greatest coaching mind in the history of the nba?

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

Very.

Eric (NY, NY)

Chad Ford has been very high on Greg Monroe's (Gtown) pro prospects. What are your thoughts on him early in his college career?

David Thorpe

  (12:23 PM)

I've not seen him yet. But scouts I trust question his motor.

Chris Sacramento

Hey David love your chats..Quick question about Kevin Martin. Do you see him as a #1 option on a team or is he best suited for a 2nd or 3rd option? The guy can flat out score...But does he have the mentality and overall talent to be a #1 option? Thanks alot.

David Thorpe

  (12:25 PM)

2 things. One-the guy just came off a 6 week injury to score 150 points in 5 games on incredible shooting numbers. Scored 81 in 2 games off the bench (an NBA record) and poured in 16 4th quarter points last night before missing some big shots. it takes incredible toughness and confidence to do that. 2. He'd be a great number 2 guy, mostly because he does not need many dribbles to score and also because he doesn't care about who is the teams best scorer.

Andrei (Montreal,Qc)

Will the Celtics win the championship this year with their current roster?

David Thorpe

  (12:26 PM)

I'd still rate them as faves.

victor monroe,la

who do you think will be in the finals?

David Thorpe

  (12:26 PM)

Boston vs. Spurs. Lakers could be there as well, as could Cavs.

Matt Ice (H Burg, PA)

So Ford shot me down on my theory the Tyler Hansbourgh would be a starter in the NBA. I feel his fire and will make him one. What are your thoughts?

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

That Chad is right.

jeff socal [via mobile]

trivia question for you mr. thorpe.. what is the name of indiana jones' father?

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

Dad.

Division Self-Help

Bargnani & Kapono for Dalembert & Speights. Who says no?

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

Philly. And slams the phone down hard.

brooklynpark,mn [via mobile]

Hey do u think derrick rose will be as good as cp3

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

No.

Denise- Washington, DC

Hey David!! One of your more loyal female fans here. Love your work, keep it up! Every so often, an American player turned star in Europe gets their break and finds a home in the NBA. (i.e. Anthony Parker) Are there any guys over there that could be here having an impact? I'm thinking of Lynn Greer (Temple/Mil. Bucks/Olympiakos, Greece) Do you see him back in the NBA?

David Thorpe

  (12:28 PM)

I don't expect Greer to return. There are dozens of guys who could play in the NBA but instead play overseas.

Brian (NJ)

Thorpedo, Im a little worried about my Giants this weekend. What do you think?

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

I think that keeping my vow of not watching a single down of football after the Bucs played game 15 is easier than I expected.

Paul (Augusta)

Thorpe! I asked you a few weeks ago about the Atlanta Hawks and you replied you still weren't sold on them. 1. Has anything changed? 2. Is there a Big Man available that would make sense for Atlanta to trade for?

David Thorpe

  (12:30 PM)

I'm not sold that they are likely to get out of round 1. But we have a long way to go, and I'm intrigued.

Jason (NYC)

Is Rondo's lack of a jumper an exploitable achilles heel for the Celtics? I recall the Spurs being stuck until Avery Johnson developed the elbow j.

David Thorpe

  (12:30 PM)

He couldn't shoot last year either.

Steve (San Diego)

Hi Coach Thorpe, since we don't have a team here I've ended up following the entire league. I read as many blogs as possible and of course, True Hoop too. Did you know how big of a star you are in the blogworld? And am I smart for reading the blogs instead of columnists?

David Thorpe

  (12:32 PM)

I've heard that bloggers tend to quote me, but I really think it's because they are thirsty for real analysis. There are a thousand guys who could do what I do, but let's keep that a secret. And yes, bloggers tend to know far more about a team's deal than the local columnist.

RAHIM (ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, NJ)

"I WORK WITH RETARD'S" (FUNNIEST MOVIE EVER) HEY DAVE WHO DO YOU THINK ARE THE TOP FIVE PG'S IN THE NBA SANS PAUL, WILLIAMS, PARKER? MY FRIENDS AND I ARE DEBATING PLEASE ANSWER. YOU NEVER ANSWER MY QUESTION.

David Thorpe

  (12:33 PM)

Harris. Billups. Nash. Terry (is he a pg?). Jameer?

Derrick, Toronto

Any truth to the Josh Howard to Toronto rumour?

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

It does fill a need.

Randy (St. Paul)

Is it possible that McHale is a better coach than GM? Oh sorry I guess that doesn't take much, but Foye has looked totally different since he took over as the coach.

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

It's a fair question and something we need to follow.

Steve (Miami)

Why aren't you live on the sportsnation chat main page instead of some mustache guy?

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

I've no idea.

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

But I'm not going to grow a stache.

jason (laurel,MD) [via mobile]

What do u think will be the next blockbuster trade in the nba?

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

Not sure, but Bulls, Blazers, Knicks all seem willing to move some talented pieces.

Dan (Buffalo, NY)

Thorpedo, I'll take Mo Williams over Terry and Jameer.

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

I wouldn't.

Amaru (Anchorage)

Hi David!! I was wondering if there was a good time to eat before game time and what kind of foods should I eat? Thanks!

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

Maybe 2-3 hours before tip off. Stay with healthy foods that you normally eat.

Sean Bridgeville, DE

An assistant middle school coach here. What can I focus on with my players as far as improving their jump shot?

David Thorpe

  (12:37 PM)

Shot selection-get them to attack the rim!

Paul (Trenton, NJ)

If Philly could get shooting help in exchange for Dalembert, with the way Speights and Ratliff have played, would you trade him?

David Thorpe

  (12:37 PM)

Yes.

robert(plainsboro,NJ)

Hey Dave, what are your thoughts of the Miami Heat?

David Thorpe

  (12:38 PM)

Great young coach. Top 3 player in the game. Excellent young rookies. Bright future.

femi (nigeria)

Why don't you take a question from Lagos, Nigeria, Mr. Thorpe? Who is the bigger mess Isiah Thomas' Knicks or the Don Nelson's Warriors?

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

Let's just say it all looks ugly.

Ray: Boston and MA

The Lakers lost to the Hornets, now I have to listen for days and days about how great the Hornets are and how much of a challenge they will be for LA. Can we be real, it was only one game. What's your take?

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

My friend Andy Pollacks' "rule of 1" is in full effect. Just one game.

Eric (New York, NY)

Happy new year, Thorpology! Are the Thunder the best .143 team ever, or what? I was watching them work over the Knicks last night, and there's a ton of talent on that team. What's your take on them and their future?

David Thorpe

  (12:40 PM)

Bright young coach(if they keep him). talented rookies. Future top 10 in the world guy. Bright future.

Chris (FL)

Ok you say Wade is top 3, and we all know LeBron is on that level, so who is the other person in your top 3?

David Thorpe

  (12:40 PM)

Kobe.

Marcos (Wellington, FL)

Will Ginobili ever get back to his heights, or is he in the decline already? To me he was one of the BIW players, maybe not top 5 but close

David Thorpe

  (12:41 PM)

I think he's a bit away from being back in top form.

Jason (NYC)

So Tim Duncan is the number 1 PF of all time in your rankings. Does KG have the #2 spot? Malone? Charles?

David Thorpe

  (12:41 PM)

Malone. For now.

Zach (Basel):

Do the Nuggets trade Kleiza for a big?

David Thorpe

  (12:42 PM)

Not after Melo's injury.

Ben (Montana)

This is old news, but Lebron is something like 6'9 and 270 lbs. Do you think he will eventually convert to a 4 when or if he loses some of his quickness. Like an Antawn Jamison?

David Thorpe

  (12:42 PM)

Yes-in 10 years or so.

M (DC)

Can you explain why D. Rose did not make your list, but Jameer and Terry did?

David Thorpe

  (12:43 PM)

Just the facts, ma'm.

Dave (Vancouver, BC)

Hey David. New Year. New Photo. Looking sharp, my man! How was Rock Band Family Feud on New Years? Thorpe's win out?

David Thorpe

  (12:44 PM)

We ended up just letting the kids duke it out while I tended the bar and the fire pit for all the adults. Big fun, and everyone made it home safely. How was your night?

Zach (Burlington, IA)

"He hates these cans. Stay away from the cans!" What is your favorite comedy of all time?

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

Loved the Jerk, but I'd tend to a classic like Caddyshack. Weekend at Bernie's is a nice sleeper pick though. Best acting job of all time.

Steiny (NYC)

Any chance the Knicks trade Nate Robinson?

David Thorpe

  (12:46 PM)

I think it's likely.

Jake (Jerusalem, Israel)

Whats the ceiling for Russell Westbrook? Jeff Green is showing a lot of improvement. Although they're playing better as of late, they're still bound to have a high draft pick. Looking into the crystal ball, where do you see them in 4-5 years?

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

All 3 of those young guys can be really good , maybe great. They will be a team to contend, I'd guess.

Logan (Tulsa, OK)

As a life long Vince Carter fan, am I biased in thinking he deserves an all-star spot this year? I know Devin is getting most of the love, but VC has played wonderful and almost seems underrated now days.

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

I agree with you in every way.

Dave (Vancouver, BC)

My New Years was great. Found out my wife's pregnant. I'm all Costanza now - BUSTING Jerry BUSTING!!

David Thorpe

  (12:48 PM)

All right!!!

Josh, Chicago [via mobile]

Do you see the Bulls making a trade anytime soon? And if so, who are they looking to add to help their struggling team?

David Thorpe

  (12:49 PM)

I do. Everyone is suggesting that they'd like to move Gooden or Hughes. I think they will try to do something, but only if it makes sense. They are not desperate to act, in other words.

Joe Dallas

How would you like that howard to toronto trade? I think hes a solid 20 pt guy

David Thorpe

  (12:49 PM)

I think he could use a change of scenery.

Mike (Provo, UT)

Does Paul Milsap deserve an all star spot?

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

No, but he's really good!

Juan(Hollywood, FL) [via mobile]

Do you think D-Wade will resign with the Heat after his contract is up?

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

Yes.

Frank (Richmond)

Can the Wizards develop their young talent with a new coach, or has Jordan's and now Tapscott's refusal to let youngsters grow/play/make mistakes and learn doomed them?

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

We don't know yet. But I sa JaVale got a DNP-CD last night. Why?

Jeff (Davie)

Who would you rather have: Durant or Beasley?

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

KD.

Dan (Buffalo, NY)

Thorpedo, let Dave from Vancouver know that when my wife gets pregnant, my kid will be named Seven, so he can't steal it.

David Thorpe

  (12:52 PM)

Done. Soda is now passe, so try...fizzy?

John (seattle)

A question for a fine tuned basketball mind - When you watch games, do you like muting the announcers? Or do you enjoy listening to what is sometimes ridiculous dialogue?

David Thorpe

  (12:52 PM)

Listening to them most nights is like having my hair pulled out. And I have very thick hair.

Beth (Hartland, WI)

Are the Milwaukee Bucks shaping up to be one of those teams nobody will want to face come playoff time?

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

No. But they will make it tough to score.

Gerardo (Tempe, AZ)

Happy New Year David...has Jason Terry (quietly) become the most underrated player in the NBA? I'm beginning to think so...

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

Oh yea.

John (Los Angeles)

Keep underestimating Eric Gordon, he must be reading your coloumn because he sure is making you look bad.

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

Really? Can someone tell me his PER as of today?

kevin orange,california [via mobile]

do you think the hornets will be a top 3 team in the west conference by the end of the season?

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

Yes.

Stephon Marbury

How funny would it be if I turned out to be a major part of a championship team this year?

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

I shudder to think of it.

Brett(Ky)

Is OJ closer to a Kobe or a Kevin Martin?

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

Kobe, in that he's a ball stopper.

Phil Rizzuto

Holy Cow! Whose the best local NBA broadcast team to listen to?

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

I like Miami's guys best.

Kobe Bryant

Honestly... I'm not out of the MVP conversation yet, right?!?!

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

Right.

Lev ( New Jersey)

Does Courtney Lee have Kevin Martin potential or is it way too early to tell?

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

No. Can't score like Kevin.

M (DC)

I respect your in-depth basketball knowledge, but I don't understand your reference "just the facts" in picking Jameer and Terry over D. Rose as better pointguards. Playing without any low post threat, D. Rose averages more assists (6.0) than Jameer (5.0) or Terry (3.7). Can you explain?

David Thorpe

  (12:57 PM)

It's not just assists, M. It's overall game. C'mon, the guys is so young. He'll get there, but he's not there now.

James (Berlin)

Hi David- Do you think the Jazz would accept Noah, Sefolosha, Gooden and a mid to late lottery pick for Boozer? They're already stacked and he seems to be a headache for them.

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

I'm not sure. Utah does that, ya think?

Curtis Willingboro Nj [via mobile]

with carmelo out. do u think jr smith stepping in for carmelo will finally get his starting job or more respect from coach karl? in the way karl won't take him out everytime he has a turnover

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

Smith or LK, but both should get more mins now and play much better.

MC Welk (SLC)

Hey, I think the Rookies beat the Sophomores during All-Star Weekend this year. Agree?

David Thorpe

  (12:59 PM)

Deeper team, but if KD and Al put it together along with Stuckey, look out.

Bryan (Pasadena)

I could've sworn you'd said before you were a Rondo fan. Jameer over Rajon?

David Thorpe

  (1:00 PM)

It's really close, but Jameer is playing so well and I like my pg's to be able to shoot.

David Thorpe

  (1:00 PM)

Gotta go. Thanks everyone. I'll be back next week.