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David Thorpe

  (12:00 PM)

Regardless of your political convictions, yesterday was a special day. Now, can we use that emotion to work together to make this world a better place? I'm not sure, but let's first try by making this the best chat it can be!! I've selected the grandest opera in my collection, Mozart's "Don Giovanni" to accompany and inspire us, so we have no excuses. And my movie quote is from a master writer, with a nod to my theater lovers."If your intention was to shoot an arrow through my heart.......BULLSEYE!!".

Brett (Phoenix)

How about Anthony Randolph and his progress?? He is still very raw but he is starting to show signs every game of star potential...

David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

I think if he got consistent minutes all year he'd end up in my top 10 rooks by years end.

Eric (Chicago)

Thorpedo...enough talk about the Celtics or any other present team being in the same class record wise as the 95-96 Bulls. Nobody will match them!

David Thorpe

  (12:02 PM)

You are probably right. Unless Bron and Wade/Bosh join forces in 2010.

Whitfield (Portland)

Mr Thorpe.....Jarryd Bayless is really coming on since Steve Blake went down. Is it time for the Blazers to trade Sergio Rodriguez?

David Thorpe

  (12:02 PM)

It's been time. But there will be few takers.

David (Houston, TX)

I'm hearing some McGrady/Vince Carter rumors around town here lately...what are you thoughts on this idea?

David Thorpe

  (12:02 PM)

No chance.

JJ (NY)

I have a question on this Lebron vs. Kobe debate. While I agree with the majoirty of people that put Lebron ahead in the MVP race, I don't see why people are so quick to claim that Lebron is the greatest player in the world. Kobe is more skilled and has by far the greater track record. Lebron is an amazing talent and is putting up huge numbers on an excellent team. I am sure he will develop his skills in the years to come. But, as I recall, Jordan (who also put up big numbers and never won a championship early in his career) had to wait awhile before people anointed him the best on the planet while guys like Magic and Bird were battling for that honor. Why are people so quick these days to hand Lebron the (imaginary) award?

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

In his total production value, LBJ is slightly better than Kobe. That's it. It's not about individual skills, age, experience, etc.

Rob (Chicago)

Luol Deng?s jump shot is really bugging me. After he shoots, he holds his pose. (Think Jordan after the shot over Byron Russell in Game 6.) This bad habit leaves him flat-footed and out of position to either get back on defense or follow the shot for a rebound. I don?t understand why no one has addressed this. Am I crazy or is this really happening? Is this a bad thing, or not a big deal that is worth fixing?

David Thorpe

  (12:04 PM)

You just made my day. That's exactly how it's supposed to be done. Check out his offensive rebound totals lately, you should be pleased.

tommy (brooklyn, ny)

2 years from now, rose or westbrook. he reminds me of an athletic gary payton

David Thorpe

  (12:05 PM)

Very tough question. Rose by a nose.

rob

your thoughts on andrea bargnani's progress... do you see this as a long term improvement or just a lucky stretch...

David Thorpe

  (12:05 PM)

Depends on if they leave him alone and let him play the 5.

Corrado "Junior" Soprano (Ican'tremember, New Jersey)

The latest buzz team is the Orlando Magic. And while I think they are a solid team, with a formiddable, MVP-caliber center, can a team whose predominant offensive power is shooting actually plow through the playoffs and reach the Finals?

David Thorpe

  (12:06 PM)

I look at it like this. If every team plays their best ball for a seven game series, Orlando wins the title. That combination of shooting around D12, plus the defense they play, gives them the advantage. Can they shoot well enough for 4 of 7 games? That is the question.

tommy (brooklyn, ny)

do u think durant can be a top 5 player

David Thorpe

  (12:07 PM)

it has always been thus.

David (Downingtown, PA)

Out of the new coaches, who has impressed you the most? Biggest dissapointment so far?

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

Scott Brooks has been terrific to me. No surprise. And Vinny has struggled the most, but it's not disappointing. I have too much respect for the NBA, it's players and coaches, to expect a guy who has never coached at any level to be able to come in and be respectable. That's not to say he can't grow into the job. Of course he can.

Rob (Chicago)

Quick follow up: So the balance on Deng's jump shot (as evidenced by the "pose") outweighs being out of position a bit for the next play? And you are right, Deng has looked great the past few games and has been pounding the offensive boards.

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

No, a pose should be over by the time the ball hits the rim. Ample time to recover back. We used to always teach "follow your shot" until it was realized that saying that often led to the player rushing their follow through. Better to focus on making the first shot.

Ryan (LA)

Love the chats, Thorpedo. Does SVG deserve more credit for potentially creating back-to-back Most Improved Players in Turkoglu and Nelson.

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

Enough credit can not be given.

Jamillionaire Knox, TN [via mobile]

Thorpedo, got another question. Would you say that today's players are more athletic and less skilled than players from the mid 80's - early 90's? And what era do yoi belive was the most competitive in the NBA ?

David Thorpe

  (12:11 PM)

Players are more athletic and more skilled. I'm not the guy to ask about best era's. Not yet 44 years young!!

David (Downingtown, PA)

When will Ginobli be back to 100%, he still looks like hes finding his groove

David Thorpe

  (12:11 PM)

??? But yes, he looks fine now.

Gavazzi (Brooklyn, NY)

What are you eating for lunch today?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

Maybe a little soup and salad.

Ari D is Kind (NY)

With Brook Lopez' great play, do you see Josh Boone getting traded in the near future? Any rumors?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

Yes, but I have no idea where.

Evan (Israel)

"He's having a stroke....of genius!"Huge Nets fan, and I really want to know what do you like about Lawrence Frank? He's had virtually no success in his five years. Can you point out his positive attributes? Thanks. I respect your analysis.

David Thorpe

  (12:13 PM)

I almost picked that quote. Great play, and movie. I was under the impression that the Nets made the playoffs every year but one under L Frank. Am I wrong? He's doing what he can with a flawed roster.

Thomas (Chicago)

Who do you believe is the best center in the NBA? Not counting Tim Duncan of course.

David Thorpe

  (12:14 PM)

D12.

Steiny (NYC)

Do you think Danilo Gallinari has a chance to be the real deal?

David Thorpe

  (12:14 PM)

Yes, he's going to be very good. He was in my original top 10 for rooks before he got hurt.

D Smith(Hayes Center, KS)

Ah the Producers. One if my favs.Will Rip produce coming off the bench as well as he did from the starting lineup. Wouldn't they be better served with AI coming off the bench.

David Thorpe

  (12:15 PM)

That's the correct question. Rip has not been the coolest of customers for some time now. I don't expect him to take that demotion easily, if it happens.

Jan, Poland

I dont know if Magic, the way they are built, can win the championship but those mid-90s Rockets sure could

David Thorpe

  (12:16 PM)

Fantastic point!! You are invited back anytime. Say hello to my friend Bob Jones, who lives in Warsaw.

Tyson (Portland)

you need to pick up the pace a bit...have you tried answering the questions before they are asked?

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

Sorry-a bit slow today?

Brook Lopez (NJ)

I'm starting for the Rookie Team right?

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

You and Oden perhaps.

Todd (Lexington, Tn)

Anthony Randolph or Brandan Wright do you think GSW are willing to trade either?

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

Yes.

Kevin MN

Long-term, which of this years rookie big men do you think will become the best player? Love? Lopez?

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

Both project well, but I'll give Lopez the edge thanks to his hulking size and skills.

Nathan (Boston)

Is Al Horford just "a winner"? Florida was better with him than without, he's been better in the pros than Noah or Brewer, and the Hawks are holding up strong even with a ton of coaching/management turbulence...Maybe he's a stronger character then people have given him credit for?

David Thorpe

  (12:19 PM)

Listen, you don't win back to back titles with just one character guy. Noah was unreal back then, and by the way, he's doing fine now when he gets a chance to play. Green and Humpty Dump, Brewer too, were all special. But yes, Big Al is a keeper and a winner.

tommy (brooklyn, ny)

do u think budinger will b a better pro player

David Thorpe

  (12:19 PM)

Could be. I'd like to know how badly he wants to be great.

Ryan (LA)

Why is Orlando such a good road team? They won in LA and in San Antonio. Even last year, they were two wins better on the road. WHY!?!?!?!

David Thorpe

  (12:20 PM)

Thanks to SVG, they know exactly how to play to their strengths. That's a huge advantage-having a plan on sticking to it.

Tyson (Portland)

Wait, you're saying Lopez will be better than Oden?

David Thorpe

  (12:21 PM)

No. I was asked about BL and KL. I think Oden should be the best big overall.

Dave (Austin)

Coach Thorpe, I want to do what you do for my career. Helping players reach their potential seems more exciting to me than coaching one team. Also, I have an amazing girlfriend that I hope to marry one day, and being a coach's wife may not work for her. So my question is, which is more valuable for you, your ability to inspire players or the ability to teach them stuff?

David Thorpe

  (12:23 PM)

I'm really not sure what's most important, but I can say this; being able to talk transparently with players, especially NBA guys, is probably the key ingredient. Guys just want honesty, even if it's harsh. I know how lucky I am to be able to work with such special talents, but I'd be doing a disservice to them if I embellished or "hustled" them. Knowing the game is important, but so is talking it.

Mitch (SLC)

Hey ThorpeNation!What do you do if you are Jazz GM Kevin O'Conner? Would you just wait for everyone to get healthy and try and make a playoff push? Or would you make some kind of trade before the deadline?THANKS

David Thorpe

  (12:24 PM)

Thank Boozer for time served and trade him for a starting 3 and a draft pick, plus some expiring deals.

Mad Pacers fan!!!

Hey how you doing Mr.Thorpe...can u please answer a Pacer question? its obvious Jim O'brien is not the answer in Pacer Land(n doesn't preach defense)!!! could you see Avery Johnson coaching this team(Moving Dunleavy to the 6th man role, rather than starting)...?

David Thorpe

  (12:25 PM)

Um, yes, he preaches, and teaches, defense.

David Thorpe

  (12:25 PM)

Jim does, that is.

Nick (NJ)

Why Oden though? His defensive potential? Lopez is already establishing himself as one of the best shot blockers in the NBA let alone among rookies. In addition, Lopez actually plays the entire game without getting into foul trouble. I won't even bring up the offensive side of the ball. Why is it already determined Oden will be that much better?

David Thorpe

  (12:25 PM)

It's not determined. Just my opinion. I think he'll be incredibly athletic and have the right disposition too.

Chad (Oklahoma City)

I'm really impressed with Jeff Green. With fellow soph KD on the team, and the rookie Westbrook turning heads, he doesn't get a lot of pub that I think he deserves. Is that just the homer in me?

David Thorpe

  (12:26 PM)

He's inching towards #1 in my report.

Matt (Anchorage)

David, I hear the talking heads that cover hoop talking all of the time about he importance of focus and concentration, but are there actually exercises that you use with your players to teach these things?

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

Sure. That's what practice is for. If the coach can't keep their attention to detail in practices, it's logical to assume he'll struggle in games too.

SprungOnSports (Long Island)

At this point, what team do you see posing the greatest threat to the Lakers out west?

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

Spurs.

jake (lexington, ky) [via mobile]

My man! I know you like oj mayos game, but where would you tell him to improve? I think he needs to model more after chauncey billups and eventually make the move to point but I'm not sure if he's a willing enough passer.

David Thorpe

  (12:28 PM)

Excellent point on being like CB. As I've written before, he needs to learn how to get more trips to the line.

D Miz (Breakin Down The Game)

Sorry I'm late to chime in on the Deng question above...but i read in Dean Smith's book: The shooter has to have every ounce of confidence that his shot is going to go in. The other players on your team have to assume it's not. So i don't fret Deng holding the pose...

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

Good stuff.

Dusty (Dallas, TX)

Just finished Outliers. great book. Which NBA player most quantifies an Outlier by definition. Would you say it is someone like LBJ that has a one of a kind talent or someone like a Larry Bird that put in the thousands of hours of work to hone his craft?

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

I thought of both Magic and Bird.

Charlie (Bored at work)

Please tell me the HEAT are kidding when it comes to acquiring JO from Toronto!?!?

David Thorpe

  (12:30 PM)

I should hope so.

Saul (Columbus,OH)

Good afternoon Mr. Thorpe,There have been rumor on Ohio radio that the Cavaliers would be interested in Andrei Kirilenko. Who would be a better fit, Gerald Wallace, or AK-47?Does AK47's playoff experience, and 8 years under Sloan make him the better fit?

David Thorpe

  (12:31 PM)

Yes, I'd lean to AK because of his experience. He's a better player too, but similar.

Chris (Hacienda Heights, CA)

Are you ready for the season premier of LOST??? Go Sayid!!!

David Thorpe

  (12:31 PM)

I've never seen one second of that show. Heard it's good. My problem is, there are 30 NBA teams and each plays 82 games at minimum.

Goodie (Tampa)

Does Marion for Josh Howard make sense for Miami?

David Thorpe

  (12:32 PM)

Yes.

sergio,LA [via mobile]

Do you think that kobe does not get the respect he deserves from you guys on espn? Lakers beat the cavs and all i read about was how kobe needs help or how lakers team is deeper. Why cant you guys write something good about a good team win. Its not just this game its all season long. What do you think david?

David Thorpe

  (12:32 PM)

I think you are crazy.

Xavier Sacramento. Ca [via mobile]

Two questions: Do you think that Trevor Ariza, can be the james posey for the lakers? Second What other player will be avaliable, if the lakers dont resign Lamar Odom

David Thorpe

  (12:33 PM)

No, can't shoot it like JP. I'll get back to you on question 2.

Ronan (Leicester, VT)

Hey Thorpedo,"The jerk store called. They're running out of you!" Is Bill Walker a piece that can help the Celtics this year? He has looked great in the preseason and garbage time so far.

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

Yea, well you are their all time best seller!! Not sure about Walker, just have not see much.

Alan Smithee (ny, ny)

Will Jason Thompson make the rookie team? He's making a hell of a final push before voting...

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

I doubt it.

Joe (Chicago)

I know you love Friedman. I read him weekly and enjoy him often. I ran across another take on him that makes valid points. You're the only one I know who'd care (if you're interested in other viewpoints).

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

I took out your link, but suffice it to say that many people don't like him. I do, though I disagree with stuff he writes and says all the time. Still, he says things that ring true to me.

stevenj (chi)

David, do you think paxson is going to move any of "his guys" before the deadline?

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

Yes.

Courtney Lee (Orlando, FL)

SVG is screaming run, run, run in my ear right now, so I only have a second. Should I continue to start, or should Pietrus get his spot back when he returns from injury?

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

Aren't you undefeated as a starter?

Luke (Orlando)

The Magic have to trade at least one of thier SG for a backup PG or PF, Right?

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

Right.

Phillip (austin, tx)

David. One of my favorite Seinfeld lines is the episode with little Jerry and the cockfighting. George yells TAMALES in slow mo. Excellent. It got me wondering, if there was gonna be a sitcom with NBA players, who would be the Seinfeld characters?

David Thorpe

  (12:37 PM)

Sportsnation, chime in please! I'll say D12 is Kramer.

Fred (portland)

Oden on Monday night. Encouraging? Or just him beating up on wimps?

David Thorpe

  (12:37 PM)

Both.

Charlie (Bored at work)

Will you be attending the All-Star Game this year?

David Thorpe

  (12:37 PM)

No. Family time.

Ike (Oakland)

Not to get political, but do you agree that being President like now is akin to being the new coach of the Datroit Lions? Even a little progress will seem like finding the cure for cancer...

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

It's all personal. Me, I've had the best 8 years of my life. Ditto most of my friends and family. It's not up to one guy or girl to ensure success or happiness, other than the guy/girl you see in the mirror each day.

Jeff (NYC)

Ron Artest = Costanza. Who wins the dunk contest this year?

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

Ya think? I see him more as Mr. Bookman.

Nate (Madison)

Ron Artest or Stephen Jackson would be Crazy Joe Davola. What's your take on the Bucks so far this year? Good job by Skiles?

David Thorpe

  (12:40 PM)

I stand corrected!! Yes, Skiles is as Skiles does. Gets his boys to compete and stick to the plan.

Chad (Oklahoma City)

Come to think of it, a Thorpe Sophomore Report would be a great read. You have tons of extra free time right? Let's do this thing!

David Thorpe

  (12:41 PM)

I'd be game, but I think you guys get enough of me as it is.

Jason (Bmore)

Do you ever find these chats interesting or fulfilling enough that you actually think about things professionally that you wouldn't have on your own, thus making you better with teaching and so forth?

David Thorpe

  (12:42 PM)

I have no idea what you are talking about. But it sounds great!

Scott (Sacramento)

Sasha Vujacic = Elaine

David Thorpe

  (12:42 PM)

No argument here.

Earl (Memphis)

Jerry Sloan=Soup Nazi...you do it his way or you are banned.Nick Calathes...good backcourt mate for Mayo?

David Thorpe

  (12:43 PM)

Nice. Yes, Nick would be a good match for OJ. "You suffer for your soup".

Jerry

Newton = Tractor Traylor

David Thorpe

  (12:44 PM)

Jerry, you got problems.

Matt (Stratford, CT)

Thorpe, gotta say I love the chats...for the next 5 years would you rather have mayo, gay and conley (i think there's the weak spot) or durant, green and westbrook?

David Thorpe

  (12:44 PM)

Not close. Thunder time!!!

Greg Oden: ( Camas, WA):

In two years I'll be eating the Lopez brothers as a post game snack with a side of ranch.

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

I don't think so GO. Brook is for real.

Chad (Cleveland)

With OKC looking bad do you see Kevin Durant getting out quick?

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

Have you seen their crowds?

Phil (Chicago)

Hey David, great chats. Have you see the season/career high list for players the Bulls play against this year? It is sickening!

David Thorpe

  (12:46 PM)

Yes, defense is out the door there.

Charles, Torrington

The Seinfeld comments couldn't couldn't come at a better time. Just the other day Kobe was quoted as saying that when it came to humor, his was of the Jerry Seinfeld quality while Lebron was more like Chris Rock...

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

Beautiful. Rock and Jerry are great friends too, I think. Maybe Rock can convince Jerry to do that movie.

Ryan (Lehi, UT)

I agree with your reply to Ike 100%. This last 8 years has also been the best of my life, and it didn't happen by relying on someone other than myself.

David Thorpe

  (12:48 PM)

For most of us, that's how it should be. But we need to help those that can't survive without help. It's common sense.

Jake (Sacrameno)

David Stern is the Postmaster General. "Do you like golf, Mr. Kramer?"

David Thorpe

  (12:48 PM)

That's awesome!!

Ferhad (Yonkers, NY) [via mobile]

Will the Knicks get a superstar player before the trade deadline approaches?

David Thorpe

  (12:49 PM)

I don't think so.

Jeff West Palm FL

What do you think of Deaquan Cook? Is he going to make it to the sophomore vs rockies game?

David Thorpe

  (12:49 PM)

Maybe. He's really a special shooter.

Mathew (Orlando)

I am in a production of Don Giovanni on Saturday. But now down to business. Is Thursdays matchup between the Magic and Celtics a preview of the Eastern Conference finals or are still living in dream land down here in the Sunshine state?

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

What is your role? Great game on Thursday. I plan on going ig I can reschedule a parent conference for my son. No, he's not in trouble!

Simao (Porto, Portugal)

Greetings from Europe Mr. Thorpe, Love the chats!!!How do you see Rose Vs. Today's elite point guards Chris Paul and Deron Williams? His stats thus far (37.3 mpg, 16.8 ppg and 6.3 apg, 2.51 to) compare with the rookie stats of Chris Paul (36,0 mpg, 16.1 ppg and 7.8 apg, 2,35 to) and Deron Williams (28,8 mpg, 10.8 ppg and 4.5 apg, 1,81 to)? Can he be better?

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

I'm not sure better is possible, those 2 cats are terrific. But I think he can get close, maybe be equal to. That's saying a lot.

Jerry Seinfeld (NYC)

I came here to read about basketball. Not myself. What gives?

David Thorpe

  (12:52 PM)

Sorry man!! We're not worthy, we're not worthy!

Kevin Love (Minneapolis)

Shouldn't I be starting?

David Thorpe

  (12:52 PM)

Don't sweat it. Just play well when you get in.

dan (fla)

Luol has been good and consistent since coming back from injury, but why can't Tyrus be consistent? He alternates good games and poor games like clockwork.

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

You are right. It's a combination of things, but ultimately it's on TT to figure out. He's still awfully young.

Alon (Brooklyn)

"I look like the Chrysler building" What moves do you think Donnie should make before the deadline if any?

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

Nothing he's not already looking into.

Ryan (Lehi, UT)

Do you like musicals too? My favorite is Les Miserables. Wicked will be here in a few months, my wife and I got tickets on the first row, right in the middle.

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

2 of my faves. Read the book first for Les Mis. Give yourself a month to get through it, but read it you should.

Jeremy (Memphis)

Gay for Haslem and Cook and a 1st round pick?

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

Why would the Grizz do that?

Ludwig (Germany)

Today we should start a "David Thorpe chat fan club for Europeans" !! I think thats awesome!!!

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

You and 3 others can have a great time on facebook with that.

Jordan Farmar (LA)

Where do you think I'll be in 2010?

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

Right where u r now.

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

Oops, slipped into my text mode.

Rob (Baltimore)

I was listening to Simmons podcast, and heard the argument about how you would rate C-Webb's career. Obviously, in the grand scheme of life, the man is a tremendous success. But taken into context of perception vs. realization of talent, where would you rank him? Did he under-achieve, based on what was expected of him coming out of College?

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

I'm the wrong guy to ask-just caught him for the first time on NBA Tv. On a positive note, his restaurant in Sacramento is terrific.

Carlos (El Salvador)

Saludos Senor Thorpe desde San Salvador. Usted sabe leer el espanol???

David Thorpe

  (12:57 PM)

Un poco. Gracias.

David (STL)

Marc Gasol = Pig Boy

David Thorpe

  (12:57 PM)

No. But funny!

Debbie (Via Mobile)

Do you have a Myspace or Facebook account? I wanna add you!!!

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

Facebook is the place to be, or so I'm told.

David (houston, TX)

What's your take on players complaining to refs after every play?

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

It's insanely immature.

David (STL)

TMac = Bubble Boy

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

It's Moors, not Moops.

Zach chicago,ill [via mobile]

With all of the cavs injuries wouldnt it be the perfect time to start making a trade

David Thorpe

  (12:59 PM)

I think it's dangerous to stay status quo for the Cavs. One more piece would work.

Pete (MD)

I saw Don Giovani at a puppet theatre in Prague. It was very strange. Anyway, are you getting tired of KG's trashing talking routine or do you just chalk it up to whatever works for him?

David Thorpe

  (12:59 PM)

Whatever works for him.

Mike (Boston)

Bill Walton is Peterman!

David Thorpe

  (1:00 PM)

Perfectly casted! A great way to end this chat. Thanks for keeping it lively. Have a great rest of the week. And be safe!