David Thorpe

  (12:00 PM)

i'm still dizzy from watching the Magic make all those 3's last night. Perhaps the Kings should have gone over the top of those screens! Still, I'm here and ready to go, fresh off an amazing trip to Miami with my son to watch the Gators win yet another title. It's Tebow time. ""Them goofy (blank) are just about the best thing I got goin' in this crazy world."

D Miz (Breakin Down The Game)

Sup Thorpe. Any thoughts on Tim Duncan's foul shot? He brings the ball from his waist, shoots, all in one motion. Seems to me like he's leaving more room for error like this. Why not just start at the top and limit your body movement...? It's not like it's working very well as is, and he's a really good shooter...

David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

It's broke. And for whatever reason, he can't fix it.

Dave (Philly)

Are there specific college programs that you believe do an especially impressive job developing talent--not necessarily nba talent, but just improving players' ability from the day they walk into the gym?

David Thorpe

  (12:02 PM)

I don't follow college enough any more to smartly answer. But I'm impressed with how Westbrook and Love have adjusted to the NBA game.

Clark (Durham, NC)

Have you ever thought of taking Grissom's place on CSI?

d-bo

anyone tell you look like the main character from csi las vegas? you will be missed from the show, lol.

David Thorpe

  (12:02 PM)

I've heard this before. Never saw the show, but that actor sure is damned handsome!!

Chris (Phoenix)

"We got this one, Mongo".... Love the stuff thorpster. Shaq going to be selected to the all star team this year? He has been so dominant again its almost like its 2001!

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

You might be right. Let's see if it can continue.

Clark (Durham, NC)

If you are the Jazz GM and Boozer comes back healthy in a month, do you try to trade him or hope he helps the team in the playoffs?

David Thorpe

  (12:04 PM)

I trade him for a legit starting 3 + cap space + a pick.

Greg (Denver, CO)

Do you think M. Speights should be starting over Dalembert in Philly?

David Thorpe

  (12:04 PM)

Yes.

Darryl (Oakland, CA)

In retrospect, should Brook Lopez have been the #2 pick overall in last year's draft?

David Thorpe

  (12:04 PM)

No. But top 5 sounds about right.

Alex (Orlando, FL)

You look more like Tony Goldwyn from "Ghost". Are the Magic title contenders finally? Also, what do you make of the beat writers saying we were rubbing it in against the Kings last night.

David Thorpe

  (12:06 PM)

I think the Magic can indeed win it all. But they are not the faves. And I do not agree with the Kings players. Those Magic guys making shots late were not their top 4 guys. That's part of the game.

Steve (Otown)

Last week you said the Miami TV crew was your favorite. What about Matty and Steel in Orlando? Last nights second half highlights included a bet on who would make the 22nd 3, a 10 minute discussion on the new mayor of Sacramento, and plenty of talk about Richardson's 3 career assists. Of course they bring their game when it's not a 40 point game...

David Thorpe

  (12:06 PM)

I've always been a huge David Steele fan. Matty loves to show off how smart he is too often.

Ed

you say you would trade boozer for a legit starting 3. How about tayshaun prince?

David Thorpe

  (12:07 PM)

He would qualify.

Adam (Sacramento)

Your boy K-Mart seems to be on an island in Sac. What will be the Kings upcoming moves and what type of players do they need to compliment Martin to take his game to the next level?

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

I have no sympathy for Kevin or any other NBA player making big bucks. he just has to keep lacing it up and competing. They need help everywhere else, I'm afraid. It's a big hole they have to dig out of.

David (Shreveport, LA)

What are your thoughts on the emergence of Danny Grangier?

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

That he has emerged.

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

No, he's an all-star. What a terrific talent.

Anderson 'Wild Man' Varejao?

Thorpedo...help me out here. Am I trade bait?

David Thorpe

  (12:09 PM)

No way.

David(Edgewater, Fl)

What should Orlando do with Hedo...try to trade him or keep and resign him?

David Thorpe

  (12:09 PM)

Re-sign him. Without a doubt.

Talal brooklyn new york

do you believe lebron is coming to the knicks in 2010?

David Thorpe

  (12:09 PM)

Yes.

Will J (Portland, OR)

Thorpedo, what's your opinion of Travis Outlaw? He seems to be getting better each year, but has he about reached is peak?

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

Probably, but that peak is nice. Great 6th man.

Adam (Seattle)

Why in the world would Durant say he isn't an All-Star?

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

Humility, and the team having so few wins.

McLovin(Hawaii)

Love the chats David. I wondered about a couple of young players. They both are developing bigs, Hawes and Yi. Both young PF/C. I like the combo 3's, blks from both. How high is their ceiling? Keep up the good work

David Thorpe

  (12:11 PM)

I'm not sure either likes to bang enough.

Leo Socal

Love your chats Thorpedo...my favorite espn chats. I know you got Lebron and Dwade over Kobe and I respect that,But who would you pick to take the last shot out of the three?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

Kobe. Same as Coach K.

Brian (Orlando)

Hey Dave, How 'bout them Gators? National Champions! YEA!!

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

Tebow is the best leader I've ever seen as a college athlete.

Brendan (Pittsfield, MA)

Thorpedo, are there any impact post players that the Bulls could land in the late lottery? Is Patrick Patterson a legit prospect? I think Chad Forde's chat wrapped raised a question of him being closer to 6'6 then 6'8

David Thorpe

  (12:13 PM)

This team does not need any more lottery picks.

Darryl (Oakland, CA)

But Dave, you DO know that USC was the best team, right?

David Thorpe

  (12:13 PM)

Right.

Jose (San Juan, PR)

Jameer Nelson = NBA's Most Improved Player

David Thorpe

  (12:14 PM)

Probably in the final mix. If he does win, what does that tell us about SVG-back to back MIP's.

Tyler (Sacramento, CA)

Have you seen my baseball?? So you say the Kings are in a deep hole. I agree. What steps do they take to get out of it? I know you've mentioned trading Brad Miller. What do you think the Kings get in return?

David Thorpe

  (12:15 PM)

Kings need to try and acquire young talent at pg, 3, 4, and 5. Or package some guys for legit starters/future stars. None of it will be easy.

Sam(Rockford)

Coach, I know you are a movie buff, so I'm wondering who you think is the best movie "coach"? Guy from Hoosiers, Coach Carter, Cheech from Tin Cup, or a surprise?

David Thorpe

  (12:16 PM)

Nice choices, all, and I liked Pacino's coach in "Any Given Sunday", but to me, it starts and ends with one guy. Mr. Miagi.

Matt (College Park)

If the Bulls don't need a lottery pick, what should they do?

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

Share the ball more. Pass and cut more. Mix in some motion offense. Set a rotation and trust it.

Mark (Clark, NJ)

I want to dip my bald head in oil, and rub it all over your body. One of the greatest lines, and one of the best episodes. Do you think Harris, Lopez and another piece, could bring a championship to the Nets in the near future?

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

Yes, if they keep L Frank too.

D Miz (Breakin Down The Game)

Book question...Have you read Sacred Hoops by Phil Jackson? Really puts together the Lama and Basketball nicely...(imho)

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

Twice. Great stuff.

Bob (Tacoma, WA)

So according to ESPN's announcers Tebow and Hansbrough are the most competitive athletes in college. Which one is truly the #1?

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

"Competitive" is too hard to judge-lots of athletes fit that bill.

Mike (Portland, OR)

David, Did you see Greg Oden play against the bulls, He made their front like look a bunch of children... Is he finally starting to round into form?

David Thorpe

  (12:19 PM)

He was awesome. Yes, I think we'll be seeing more strong games as the season unfolds and fewer weak ones.

Stewie (Rhode Island)

It probably isn't your department, but when will sportscenter officially change names to 'the lebron james higlight fest'?

David Thorpe

  (12:19 PM)

After the Super Bowl, I'd think. :)

Dan (lincoln, NE)

Do you think the 09 NBa draft is weak or does anyone ever really know until a year or so later?

David Thorpe

  (12:20 PM)

Seems weak now. Ask again in April.

Chuck (Des Moines, IA)

Who would be your Bulls starting 5? Hughes needs to go, right?

David Thorpe

  (12:21 PM)

Rose, Kirk, Deng, Thomas, Noah. BG, Thabo, Noc off bench, + whomever they get for Drew.

Chris (Boston)

If you were Glen Davis' trainer, would you have him lose weight, or is his weight part of the reason he is so effective?

David Thorpe

  (12:21 PM)

40 pounds. Yep, that'll do it.

David (Miami)

Beasley's play has been much improved over the last 5 games. What's he doing differently?

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

Trusting himself more. Not over-thinking.

Broad Street Brian (Philly)

Tebow? Best leader? I recall a guy name Vince that carried a Longhorn team to a Championship. We are talking college and not pro right?

David Thorpe

  (12:23 PM)

Great call. Vince was amazing as a leader. But Tebow has a "Heisman sandwich on national titles".

Dean (Maseru, Lesotho)

Yo Dave, why is Cuban such a whining baby? Is it bad for the game? Should he be disciplined for barking at JR during the half?

David Thorpe

  (12:23 PM)

I don't know about fined, but talking to another teams player is a mistake.

James (Berlin)

Hi David- If you were the Jazz, would you trade Boozer for Deng and Sefolosha?

David Thorpe

  (12:24 PM)

In a heartbeat.

Tom (Orlando)

Thorpe, I've got to say that you were the only guy holding out that JJ Redick could play in this league. He's been so good recently for us. Think that can continue or will we trade him now?

David Thorpe

  (12:25 PM)

I see good things for him, as long as he gets minutes. He has his swagger back. And his jumper is daggers.

jeff (africa)

david...do you think the raptors are regreting picking up O'neal

David Thorpe

  (12:25 PM)

Not yet.

Sharad (New York, NY)

Name the to 5 SGs in the league right now

David Thorpe

  (12:26 PM)

Help me out here. Wade Kobe Manu

jason ohio

since big z went down j j hickson has played well thorpe how good can this kid be

David Thorpe

  (12:26 PM)

Really really good. Big body with scoring touch and feel.

Steiny (NYC)

Is Raef LaFrentz going to be traded?

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

I'd think yes.

John Paxson (Chicago, IL)

Why would you reward Noah with a starting position. He has shown a lack of hustle and has been a problem in the locker room. If anything, he needs to go.

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

Top 3 in the league in offensive rebound rate. Races the floor. That's hustle.

Will J (Portland, OR)

What about Brandon Roy cracking your top 5 SG?

David Thorpe

  (12:28 PM)

He's under consideration.

Brian (Jersey)

It bothers me when people (not you) equate the "who would you rather take the last shot" with "Best NBA player." I want Kobe taking the last shot, because that is the best facet of his game. But Lebron is the better overall player because of his passing and rebounding skills. Thoughts?

David Thorpe

  (12:28 PM)

You are dead on accurate.

Ed

another SG: i'll take kevin martin

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

Under consideration as well. Needs to improve his defensive efforts. And stay healthy.

Doug (Memphis)

If you're the bulls, would you trade just about anyone except rose at this point? (considering you get a fair return)

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

Yes.

Brian (Jersey)

Devin Harris is the frontrunner for MIP right?

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

As of now, I think so. May come down to him vs. Nelson.

Ethan (Philly)

Thorpe, what one trade would you most like to see happen?

David Thorpe

  (12:30 PM)

Something in Chicago that let's Noah or Thomas start over.

Jackson (IA)

Does a JO trade to Chicago for Nocioni and change (minor player, draft pick, etc) make too much sense? Nocioni gives Toronto a three...and more importantly, a "set" when they need it...and say what you will about JO but he would still draw double teams, which is exactly what the bulls swing players need...

David Thorpe

  (12:31 PM)

This is being discussed a lot.

Rob (Baltimore)

2 guard-rip Hamilton.

David Thorpe

  (12:31 PM)

I don't think so.

JJ NY

Wade Kobe Manu J Johnson Roy

David Thorpe

  (12:31 PM)

Strong 5.

Patty (LA)

Thorponator: Why would any team trade a player like Prince + a pick for Boozer, when he can walk away after this season, let alone the fact that he just had surgery? No way could the Jazz get back that type of return in a deal for him. I just don't see it, brother.

David Thorpe

  (12:32 PM)

Perhaps. But a team like Detroit or Chicago could keep him, Bird rights and all.

Jason (Vancouver, BC)

"Heisman sandwich on national titles" HA, that's priceless!

David Thorpe

  (12:33 PM)

He did it, I just said it.

Ludwig (Germany)

we ve helped out enough!!! top 5 sg are???

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

If forced to choose, based on talent and production, I'd add Martin and Roy the list with JJ 6th.

Paul Caruso (ASU)

David, what do you think about Courtney Lee's potential? The guy can jump out of the gym, hes got quick feet and great hands, he can take it to the hoop, pass, and is shooting 40% from 3 land.

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

I think he can be a strong starter for a good team. Kind of like now.

Pedro (North Dakota)

who is your mvp pick right now?

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

Bron.

Andrew (Toledo)

Was Mo Williams the missing piece in Cleveland to get Lebron a championship?

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

Indeed he might be.

Matt (Fort Collins)

Amundson is taking all of Lopez's mins in Pho. Can he keep this up and stick in the league?

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

I love that kid. Energy personified.

Rob (Baltimore)

Thorpe, with all due respect, Flutie was a better leader than either Tebow or Vince Young. The definition of a great leader is someone who can delegate responsibility to get the job done, not someone who needs to do everything themselves. Don't get me wrong, both players were and are amazing talents, but what does it say that in crunch time, they would rather call their own # than rely on the rest of their team? Look at where that has gotten Vince Young in the pros.

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

Let's just say our definition of leadership is different. I thought it was about inspiring others. Can someone look this up?

Brian (Jersey)

I think the Cavs are in a tough spot. They have played so well that the "if it aint broke dont fix it" logic may apply, but they have the Wally contract to trade if they want. Brad Miller could mix in Cleveland right?

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

Right.

Jason (Connecticut)

David - I'm glad someone finally agreed with me about JJ Redick. Kid is daggers from downtown. I'm so glad he's finally get some shine.

David Thorpe

  (12:37 PM)

Me too.

Paul Caruso (ASU)

If the Magic get the #1 seed and Dwight keeps playing exception defense, would you say he and Bron would be somewhat even for MVP?

David Thorpe

  (12:37 PM)

No.

Matt (Fort Collins)

JJ? Seriously? I don't think he'd be in the top 15 (unless we're just talking shot). Brewer? Terry? Redd? Love? Even Gordon.

David Thorpe

  (12:38 PM)

JJ, as in Joe Johnson.

David Thorpe

  (12:38 PM)

JJ, as in Joe Johnson.

Alex (Jacksonville, FL)

Thorpedo, Brook Lopez has been playing well if he turns it up a few notches does he have a chance at rookie of the year? By the way Mchale is terrible how did he pass on this kid or not keep Mayo?

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

Doubtful. But yes, he'd be looking good next to AJ.

Phillip

David. Im a spurs fan and I would take both Brandon Roy over Manu. And I would almost take Joe Johnson over Manu as well. I love the guy and realize how important he is. But he doesnt start for a reason. He is wreckless sometimes and it hurts the team in stretches. Tell me if im way off base with that. Thanks.

David Thorpe

  (12:40 PM)

You are way off base.

Dave (Flagstaff, AZ)

What role can Chase Budinger potentially play in the NBA?

David Thorpe

  (12:41 PM)

I'm not sure. There are lots of questions about his desire to compete and his love of the game.

Mr. Miyagi (okinawa, japan)

i have to agree with you...not only did i coach daniel san to the top, i also beat the crap out of the Cobra Kai!

David Thorpe

  (12:41 PM)

Anyone who could turn a half boy/half girl into a karate champ is the best in my book.

Courtney Lee (Orlando, FL)

I should definitely be considered for the Rookie-Sophomore game, right?

David Thorpe

  (12:42 PM)

Probably not. Too many rooks outperforming you. But they will be sitting at home in May or June, when you may still be playing.

Steiny (NYC)

Do you think Earl Watson is worth more than a second-round pick?

David Thorpe

  (12:43 PM)

No.

Daniel (OR)

Why would the cavs want brad miller? His contract is one year longer than wally's, and he is 32 going on 33. Cavs already have an old 7 footer who can shoot, Z. Unless you are assuming they wont have Z come playoff time, shouldnt they look for someone other than miller? Boht guys are far too slow to play the power forward spot, so it isnt smart to play them together unless the other team has two slow bigs in at the same time. If cavs didnt have Z, then i would agree with the trade, but since they do, i would look for someone else (i dont know who).

David Thorpe

  (12:44 PM)

Miller helps James score without the ball, which saves energy. And his shooting can make a difference off the bench.

JB (TX)

Thorpe, sorry, but I gotta go w/the coach from Teen Wolf. "There are three rules that I live by: never get less than twelve hours sleep; never play cards with a guy who has the same first name as a city; and never get involved with a woman with a tattoo of a dagger on her body. Now you stick to that, and everything else is cream cheese. "

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

I considered him, mostly because taming a werewolf and mixing him into the team game is so difficult. Plus, winning games with a huge and short fat kid at center is a big disadvantage.

Hulk Hogan (Clearwater, FL)

Peitrus will eventually come back to the Magic, lets hear your SG order: Peitrus, Courtney Lee, Keith Bogans, JJ Redick, Jeremy Richardson(probably will be in a suit), BROTHER!.

David Thorpe

  (12:46 PM)

That reads right to me. Unless they move MP.

James, NYC

would you care to explain why you think lebron wants to go to New York, what has he said that makes you think so?

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

It's the best business decision, and he's always talked about that as being a big part of his life. I, for one, hope he stays in Cleveland.

Jeremy (Memphis)

Conley, Gay & Warrick for Lamarcus Aldridge & Outlaw?

David Thorpe

  (12:48 PM)

Very interesting.

Dunthorpe Rockefeller, Vermont

Is it feasible that Lebron would end up in LA? If I were given 100 to 1 I'd put a 1,000 bucks on this happening.

David Thorpe

  (12:48 PM)

It's possible, sure. But doubtful.

Jake (Columbia, MO)

I listend to Simmons' podcast the other day. Stein and Bucher are still claiming that they would have taken Oden with the #1 pick. They're fooling themselves, right? As great of a defensive presence as Oden can be, Durant would be an unbelievable second option on that team. If anything, his progress would probably be better in Portland. Thoughts?

David Thorpe

  (12:49 PM)

KD on the Blazers right now means they are a top 4 team, right now.

Steve (Israel)

What about Bosh. Where will his free agency take him?

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

Just my own guess-Knicks, Spurs, Bulls.

Vivek Patel, India

you are ready to get banned in your own chat. Roy is top 3 as far as shooting guards. And don't forget Joe Johnson.

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

We disagree.

Mike (Orlando, FL)

Pietrus & Foyle traded to Miami for Udonis Haslem. Your thoughts?

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

Good deal for both teams.

Ben (Baltimore)

Speaking of Miagi, have you heard about the upcoming Karate Kid remake? It will be directed by Will Smith, starring his son, takes place in China, and is completely Karate-free. And now that we're on the subject of train-wrecks, why is Dwight Howard's FT shooting so inconsistent? He goes 9/11 one day and then 4/10 the next. What's up?

David Thorpe

  (12:52 PM)

I hope you are joking about that movie. That would be like remaking "Casablanca' and not setting it in North Africa. Dwight does not shoot the ball, he flings it. Hard to be a consistent flinger.

Kevin (NJ)

"All I got are these damm Nepalize Quarters"

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

It's "coins" I think, but nice effort.

Bob(Nashville, TN)

Does Rudy Gay need a new coach or what? He plays like he doesn't care at all. Avery Johnson would put him in line.

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

There is something wrong there.

Ken (Denver)

I know you are a fan of Kleiza. What are your thoughts on his recent slump? And how can you teach him to not have butter fingers?

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

I think he is trying too hard.

Steve (Washington)

Bosh and LBJ will stay where they are and you're foolish to say otherwise. You think they're going to leave $30 million on the table just to wear a different jersey? You media types do this every year, and then are shocked when most free agents stay put.

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

I'm a "media type". Hooray!! Can't wait to tell my mom.

John from DC

David, Nevermind the clutch factor, but perhaps many of us think Kobe is the best player because there are no weaknesses in his game? In contrast, have you bothered to look at Lebron's numbers anywhere but at the rim? It's ugly. Did you ever consider that? Obviously not.

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

John, get over your mancrush. Most of the free world acknowledges that LBJ is the best on planet earth.

Doug (NY)

should the knicks re-sign david lee or move him to free up more space?

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

Keep him-rebounders like that are hard to find.

Jose (San Juan, PR)

Who's the poor man's Chauncey Billups?

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

Stuckey in 3 years.

Steve (Ithaca)

He's not joking about the new KK, and supposedly Jackie Chan will be playing Mr. Miyagi.

David Thorpe

  (12:57 PM)

I ban all of you from seeing it.

Jeff (East Bay, CA)

This chat might get a ban...seriously nobody mentions Monta Ellis as a possible top 5 PG? Preposterous.

David Thorpe

  (12:57 PM)

Um, can he play a game in 2009 first?

Bucks Nation

If Hammond trades Sessions for Conley should we run him out of town?

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

Yes.

Vince Carter (NJ)

Coach, your banned for not mentioning me in the Top 5 SG conversation. Sorry but I had to do it to you.

David Thorpe

  (12:59 PM)

I'm a huge Carter fan, since I met him when he was 15. I need to recheck my numbers.

Mitch (Indy)

Is it possible that you're not nearly as funny as you think you are? See you next week!

David Thorpe

  (12:59 PM)

No.

Dan (Seattle)

What does Scott Skiles have against Sessions? Always impressed when he plays.

David Thorpe

  (1:00 PM)

A lot of us are wondering the same thing.

David Thorpe

  (1:00 PM)

Time's up. Thanks to everyone. Be safe and I'll be back next week.