ESPN

David Thorpe

  (12:00 PM)

Playoff time, baby!! It's the busiest time of the year for me, covering half the games and starting my training sessions up as well. But it's the most exciting too. Let's chat!!"If you see a possum, kill it. It's not a pet".

Chris, Germany

A colleague of mine told me that if he could draft Blake Griffin for the Bulls, he would instantly trade him for Kevin Love. Would you?

David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

Probably, but I have not studied him enough.

Bob (Phoenix, AZ)

David - Did you work with Kyryl Natyazhko and how do you project he will do down in Tucson with Coach Miller and Arizona? Thanks

David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

Just a little, but we talk a lot. He'll be with me more this summer. He's going to be terrific!

Josh (Toronto)

Is Simmons right, is Bosh the next Shareef Abdur Rahim?

David Thorpe

  (12:02 PM)

I don't think so. Now that we've seen what was going on in his personal life, we have a better understanding of his struggles.

Ed (MD)

watch out FIU, Thomas the Trainwreck is on his way to your campus!

David Thorpe

  (12:02 PM)

Looks like there will be an AD job opening soon.

Matt(Chicago) [via mobile]

Do you think Tyrus Thomas can be a top 5 PF in the NBA within the next 5 years?

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

I don't know about top 5. It will be close.

Herbert - NY

5 years time - Brook Lopez, Greg Oden or Marc Gasol?

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

Based on what we've seen, I like the order you have them in. Oden's health is the x factor.

Quincy (Dayton)

What is the pro outlook for Thabeet? Is he more Dikembe or Johan Petro?

David Thorpe

  (12:04 PM)

Petro. Don't like his off and on motor.

JC in Cleveland

David, If I was a GM I would not be buying any Tyreke Evans stock. Sell me on him.

David Thorpe

  (12:04 PM)

He has a lot of OJ Mayo in him-can score against anybody.

Matt (Cleveland)

Thorpe, your... your brain has the shell on it. Cavs have locked up homecourt throughout, the celtics are looking pretty dismal and the magic have had a terrible couple of games. who do you see in the ecf matchup and who wins?

David Thorpe

  (12:05 PM)

I expect the Cavs to come out of the east, partly due to KG's health.

Jon: (Camas, WA)

Thorpe! I always look forward to your chats. This will be my last one for awhile unfortunately.Does Portland beat Denver tonight to get homecourt in the first round? If so, how far do you see Portland going?

David Thorpe

  (12:05 PM)

Who cares about Portland and Denver-why no more chats. I heard even prison has internet access!!

Mark: (Cleveland, OH)

Will Chase Budinger ever be able to defend NBA wings?

David Thorpe

  (12:06 PM)

Doubtfully.

Yi, Toronto, Ontario

David, how do you think Demar DeRozan will turn out in the NBA?

David Thorpe

  (12:06 PM)

I've never seen him play.

Rob (Portland, OR)

My head hurts from trying to figure out all the playoff scenarios tonight. You being the "short answer guy", can you simplify it for me?

David Thorpe

  (12:06 PM)

Wait until morning.

Freddie in Ohio

Will this draft be a complete bust after Griffin and Rubio?

David Thorpe

  (12:07 PM)

No. Maybe not full of stars, but there are some starters and role players in this class.

Mike (Chicago)

Hey Coach, Top of the Muffin TO YOU!!! How do you like the makeup of the current Bulls team and what do you think should be priority number 1 for Paxson this offseason?

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

I like the look of the team, but they have to figure out what to do with Kirk. He'll not agree to backup status for long.

Jon (Miami)

Haslem's injury has allowed Beasley to flourish as a starter. Is this the kind of thing we can expect from him once he becomes an everyday starter?

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

Maybe not 20 a night, but close.

Eric (East Lansing, MI)

Do you think MSU center Goran Suton played his way into the 2nd round during the NCAA tourney?

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

50/50.

EC (Los Angeles)

In 2 years, who's a bigger beast: Bynum or Dwight.

David Thorpe

  (12:09 PM)

D-12.

Jackie Moon

Please don't quote my terrible movie anymore.

David Thorpe

  (12:09 PM)

The key to life is finding the sugar amidst the sour.

Wesley (Gainseville)

What are you thoughts on Ricky Rubio...Is he a project or will he be ready to contribute in a big way in a couple of years?

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

Ready now, more ready later.

ryan(NJ)

Why is 20 points per night for Beasley not his floor with regular minutes? Unless the answer is D-wade, I'm not sure I understand.

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

I just meant now. He's a likely 20 a game guy eventually.

Joe (Miami)

I love you Thorpedo, but if you think Beasley can't get 20 a night as a starter, you haven't been watching him play this season...unless you think he'll somehow regress.

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

See my last statement.

Kevin, Roanoke

Do you think LeBron is a better defender than Wade. I mean, Wade has 100 steals and 100 blocks this year.

David Thorpe

  (12:11 PM)

Wade better at the chaos stuff, LBJ better as a lockdown guy. So let's call it a tie.

Jon (NYC)

What's Jonny Flynn's NBA ceiling?

David Thorpe

  (12:11 PM)

Probably a starter.

JC in Cleveland

David, Who is your biggest sleeper player in this year's playoffs? The guy who no one talks about but is gonna be heard from in a major way?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

Leaning to Oden.

Belinda - Wyoming

You have a beautiful smile

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

:)

Steve (Sac-Town)

Assuming the Kings DON'T get the first pick, who is their best option?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

Rubio, or pan down and get a vet and more picks.

Guy (Tulsa)

Better pro: Psycho-T or D. Blair?

David Thorpe

  (12:13 PM)

I like Blair-better board man.

Chris (Australia)

If you were Rod Thorn, would you fire Lawrence Frank?

David Thorpe

  (12:13 PM)

No. But we'd chat about developing the future.

Dave (Miami)

Beer or wine?

David Thorpe

  (12:14 PM)

Neither.

Psycho-T's Mom

Even I think T is out of the league in 2 years.

David Thorpe

  (12:14 PM)

He could be the Heels tv color guy by 2013.

Kris (Simi Valley, CA)

"Everybody panic! It's just like the Titanic but it's full of bears!" After Ginobili's injury, I was convinced the Spurs were done, and was actually looking forward to not getting an ulcer during the playoffs. Now, I'm starting to convince myself the Spurs have a chance. Please help! I love my wife and family, and don't want to jump off a building just yet ...

David Thorpe

  (12:15 PM)

Not gonna happen.

Jackie Moon (Michigan)

Hey Thorpe its Jackie. what kinda moves do you see the spurs making this off season?

David Thorpe

  (12:15 PM)

Depends what kid of washing machine they are willing to barter.

Kronkite (Alabama)

If, and BIG IF the Magic can get past Boston in the playoffs, don't you have to slightly favor the Magic vs Cleveland, even with Cleveland having homecourt?

David Thorpe

  (12:15 PM)

No.

Kirby (Denver, CO)

Thorp! Will Carmelo ever have the same desire to win as Kobe, Brandon Roy, or KG?

David Thorpe

  (12:16 PM)

It's certainly possible. Look at Boston.

Mike (Irvine, CA)

do you agree with Simmons? is Greg Oden the spitting image of Stanley Roberts up to this point? i think he has been healthy enough this year to not be fouling at the rate he is.

David Thorpe

  (12:16 PM)

I don't remember what Roberts looked like then, but I highly doubt it. Oden still has put up some impressive numbers.

Alex (Kissimmee)

After Beasley's recent play, would you still rate Brook Lopez over him?

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

of course-we have to consider the whole season.

Angry man (Oakland)

What do you think of Flip to the Wiz?

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

It won't matter if they can't get and stay healthy.

Jeff (NYC)

Any chance John Wall bypasses college and goes straight to the draft? Heard from Chad Ford yesterday that he's trying to use a loophole to make himself eligible for this year's draft...

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

I have no idea.

Mike cleveland

COY?

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

SVG.

Henry Abbott (NJ)

You going to join us tonight for TrueHoop's massive liveblogging of five overlapping games? We could use actual basketball knowledge.

David Thorpe

  (12:19 PM)

Even if this was the real Henry, I'd have to say "negative". I've got my sons baseball game and just a few more open nights before the playoffs start and I disappear for 2 weeks.

Kevin (L.A.)

Thorpedo, who would be a good coach for the Clippers? Clearly, Dunceleavy has to go.

David Thorpe

  (12:20 PM)

Rambis.

Jeremy windy city

Love your work thorpy! After Dantoni, which coach has the best offensive sets?

David Thorpe

  (12:20 PM)

Sloan probably.

D-Rose

Comparing my rookie numbers to some of the top PGs in the league would you say I'm bound to become a better version of D-Will but still a notch below CP3?

David Thorpe

  (12:20 PM)

I would not.

Scott (Miami)

Will you confirm how much I suck at life?

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

Scott-you can change everything with a good nap and then action towards positive things. Just wake up and decide to be different.

Brian (CA)

In my opinion, there are two types of NBA superstars. The first group are physical freaks (Shaq, Lebron) that are bigger and badder than everyone else. The other group are those who work hardest and have highly refined skills (Duncan and Kobe).

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

You must have been sleeping when Kobe was dunking on everybody.

Daniel (Ohio)

Thorpe my Man! Which lottery team do you think will have a breakout season next year?

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

Charlotte. Maybe Toronto.

Matt(OH)

Rasheed Wallace recently said something along the lines of "We don't care who we play, we can beat the Cavs, Celtics and Magic". Now that the match-up between the Cavs and Pistons is set, do the Pistons even take a game from the Cavs?

David Thorpe

  (12:23 PM)

Probably not.

D-Rose

So what you're saying...is I've got a chance...(to be #1)

David Thorpe

  (12:23 PM)

Actually, no. It's not automatic that you grow to be better than DWill.

Jordan (Melbourne, FL)

How do you think Courtney Lee will handle playoff situations? Do you think Pietrus will see more minutes because of his experience?

David Thorpe

  (12:24 PM)

Yes.

Knonkite (Alabama)

Reasoning on not favoring Magic vs Cleveland please? Looking at history the Magic match up very well against them and have won most games.

David Thorpe

  (12:24 PM)

Give it a rest dude.

Ben (Australia)

It's 2:30 in the morning here and i stayed up just to say you're awesome. Keep up the good work.

David Thorpe

  (12:24 PM)

Back at ya!! I love those Aussies.

Ben (Dallas)

"I don't know how official any of these rankings really are..."

David Thorpe

  (12:25 PM)

Pretty much my favorite one liner from the show.

john(AZ)

Has there ever been a 46 win team in the lottery before? This years Suns

David Thorpe

  (12:25 PM)

You mean like last year's 50 wins Warriors?

Frank (SLC, Utah)

Can the Jazz take L.A past 5 games and maybe force a game 7 at Staples?

David Thorpe

  (12:26 PM)

Without a doubt, no.

Frank (Brooklyn)

What is this I hear about John Wall possibly declaring for the draft because he is a 5th year senior...How likely is this to actually happen and if it does is he a top 3 pick?

David Thorpe

  (12:26 PM)

I don't follow high school at all so I've no clue about this guy. Yet.

Jordan (Kent,OH)

You say you see the cavs winning it because of Garnetts health?? Did you watch LeBron almost single handily carry the cavs to the finals for the second year in a row last time? Now they have homecourt and Mo and your reason for them winning the east is because of Garnett?? WHAT!?!

David Thorpe

  (12:28 PM)

Take a seat Jordan. I said "partly".

Jon (NYC)

How about Ike Diogu? That was a serious out of nowhere blow-up a couple nights back. Will he ever get big minutes or was that just garbage day? What's his problem -- his per48s are always fantastic?

David Thorpe

  (12:28 PM)

I'm wondering the same thing. No one plays that kid.

Vida

Can we just chat for forever...it's so much fun!! What else do you have to do that is better than this?

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

I love chatting too. But it does not pay my bills, or espn's either.

Tim(Miami)

LeBron lays the ball in...GoodLeBron dunks with 2 hands...CrazyLeBrond dunks with one had...AmazingWade wins the title and Finals MVP while LeBron comes up short...Priceless

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

Seriously, Tim, stop sniffing glue.

Stu (NYC)

Thorpe, I'm not really feeling how you just dissed that Kronkite guy who politely asked you to explain your reasoning for picking the Cavs over the Magic. He has a valid point and he is just trying to discuss basketball in a basketball chat.

David Thorpe

  (12:31 PM)

Really-I have to explain that I pick Cleveland partly because they have the#1 seed and are the best home team ever, and partly because the defending champs are not close to being 100% healthy. I really have to explain that? My chats are not built that way.

Charles (Orlando)

DT, as a UF grad what are your thoughts onCalthes as a pro? I think his skills wouldfit perfectly with D'Antoni. Agree?

David Thorpe

  (12:32 PM)

He's the best passer to enter the draft in a decade+. Broke the assist record at UF two straight years, with just one pro (Speights-who played all of 24 mins a game last year) over the 2 years.

JK (CT)

Is it more interesting for you to work with a guy that has elite talent but struggles with putting it all together on the court, or a guy who has average talent but a stronger work ethic and hustle on the court?

David Thorpe

  (12:33 PM)

Same.

Mark Kopeny (UVA)

Call me crazy but I can definitely see miami beating the hawks and taking the cavs to 6 in the second round!!

David Thorpe

  (12:33 PM)

me too.

Dave (MN)

If FIU was in Bradenton, how much $ would it take to hire you as IT's assistant? Or is there not enough $ in the universe?

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

That would have been great...17 years ago. I had decided by the age of 25 that I didn't want to go that route. Incidentally, I reside in Clearwater, not Bradenton.

Scott (San Antonio, Texas)

In your mind, does Gregg Popovich deserve any coach of the year consideration? I think he's done a fine job with all the injuries the Spurs have suffered.

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

He always deserves some votes.

Doug (Portland, OR)

I care about Portland and Denver... Do you thing the refs allow Oden to play more physical since its "The Playoffs"???

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

Yes.

Mike, Akron

I love how the Magic fans are all assuming they will play the Cavs in the ECF, do they forget they still have to get through the Celtics? Orland can't even beat Boston, they need to stop worrying about playing the Cavs.

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

Why do fans lose their minds at playoff time? Orlando fans are not suggesting that at all, except for the insane ones.

Lloyd (Chicago)

Hey David. As a Bulls fan, what would be a realistic expectation statistically speaking for TT and Noah next year.Thanks

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

Both should be double-double guys, or close to it.

Matt (Staten Island, New York)

How is Brook Lopez not considered rookie of the year with all he did?

David Thorpe

  (12:37 PM)

Read my report. He finished 2nd. Don't pay attention to the TNT guys-they just looked at the top 4 scorers and eliminated the Clippers guy.

Randy (White Plains, NY)

I thought the best passer I've seen come out of college in recent years was Jared Jordan. How is Calathes better (as a passer -- I realize he's the better overall player)?

David Thorpe

  (12:38 PM)

Same skill set and vision, 6 inches taller.

Angry Man (Oakland)

What is the biggest problem with the Clippers?

David Thorpe

  (12:38 PM)

Lack of identity.

JC in Cleveland

David, what are some good things to focus on when I am playing in high level/competitive men's league games (besides getting 40 on 25 shots)?

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

Setting good and solid screens.

Danny Green, Chapel Hill

Who's skill set do I remind you the most of?

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

Ron Artest.

Mike (Irvine, CA)

lack of identity? wouldnt you say its more moron coach and GM (is Dunleavy still doing both?

David Thorpe

  (12:40 PM)

You see potato, I say potato.

JC in Cleveland

David, When I work out my clients(9th-12th grade), what are a couple good things/tactics that are either new and exciting or staples that have to be preached hard?

David Thorpe

  (12:40 PM)

Shot selection. Handling under pressure. And you can never teach defense enough.

Marc, Charlotte

Ron Artest minus the craziness, right?

David Thorpe

  (12:41 PM)

Yep.

Scott(UT)

What in the hell is going on with the Utah Jazz? They seem like they have chemistry issues and no passion at all. What do you see happening with them in the off season? How quick do you think they get dismissed in the first round vs the Lakers?

David Thorpe

  (12:41 PM)

I'm writing that series preview now, and I'm guessing 5 games tops.

Darren (Los Angeles)

Thorpelicious, if Kevin Durant was a rookie this year and had the same season he had last year, would he be rookie of the year over Lopez and Rose?

David Thorpe

  (12:42 PM)

Rose would win because his team made the playoffs.

Tom (Boston)

Coach, I'm getting married in two months. Any words of wisdom?

David Thorpe

  (12:43 PM)

Just remember these words-"it's not about me". If both of you take those to heart, then you both have a great life ahead of you. We're going on 19 wonderful years, and I've never been happier.

Otis Thorpe

Thorpesalad, if the Magic don't make it to the ECF this year, do they let Turk go and sign a MLE type PF?

David Thorpe

  (12:44 PM)

I really do not know. He's such an important piece. It will make for an interesting summer.

Jeff (ATL)

Mike Woodson's Hawks have improved every year. We've improved 10 games this year. That said, I don't think he's the right person for the talent we've assembled? Agree? I think Avery Johnson would have groomed a guy like Acie Law.

David Thorpe

  (12:44 PM)

The next 2 weeks will tell us a lot.

Ed (LA)

to Tom in Boston... 2 words... prenuptial agreement

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

I wouldn't know about that. We were both broke in 1990.

Jason (Bmore)

Do you think Calipari instantly makes Kentucky a contender?

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

Without doubt.

Kal (Highland, New York)

Is Mike Brown the most underrated coach in the NBA right now? He seems to get none of the credit (that goes to Lebron usually) and all of the blame.

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

I think you are right.

Saurav, Queens NY

Coach,As one of the only respected writers in my opinion, (Hollinger being the other), what do you make of Wade being the only player in history to acheive 2000 points, 500 assists, 100 blocks and 100 steals? And I concede that Lebron is still mvp but this should squarely put him 2nd.

David Thorpe

  (12:46 PM)

First of all, to not respect out other writers is a huge mistake. They are amazing, all of them. Secondly, yes, Wade is a solid #2.

Nick(Tampa)

Which 1st round match-up is better for the Bulls?

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

Celtics I think.

Chris, Germany

Isn't it about time for Jeff van Gundy to be an NBA head coach again? His TV work is all nice and fine, but the League could use an expert like him on the sidlines.

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

You mean as a sideline reporter?

Evan (Boston)

Who would you rather have on your team this year Joe Johnson or Brandon Roy?

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

Roy.

Latasha ( New Orleans, Louisiana)

Can the Hornets get it together and threaten the Lakers in the western conference finals?

David Thorpe

  (12:48 PM)

No.

Matt (Santa Barbara)

David my Facebook friend! Thanks for the great chats. If (IF), the Clippers win the lottery and get Griffin does this now put them near playoff level? What if they get Rubio or Wall (if he is in the draft?)....Clippers thoughts on a 1-3 draft?

David Thorpe

  (12:48 PM)

Hi Matt. It will take more than one player. It has to start with coaching and culture.

Coop (Orlando)

The only team that can beat the Lakers in the playoffs this year is...the Lakers?

David Thorpe

  (12:49 PM)

No. The Cavs clearly can too.

JC in Cleveland

Dave, What's D. Blair's ceiling. Is he Z Bo? Is he Boozer? Is he Big Baby?

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

I am thinking Millsap.

Matt (Atl)

Thorpe, thanks for bringin the heat with every chat. Do you think we ever see Greg Oden become the fluid, explosive beast that he was in the 2007 NCAA tourney? Seems like a lot of people have forgotten how good he was

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

It's possible. Yes. I hope so too.

Wes (NYC)

Hansborough is better than Boozer

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

And "Leon is getting larger".

Blake (Albuquerque, New Mexico)

Will Tim Duncan ever win a title again?

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

Sure he could. Manu needs to be healthy for starters.

Chad (Honolulu, HI)

Iverson to the Thunder to start at SG?

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

Highly doubtful.

Dave (SLC, UT)

The Cavs have "clearly" lost both games to the Lakers...even at home. Clearly may be a bit overstated.

David Thorpe

  (12:52 PM)

So you are suggesting that if the Lakers play poorly, the Cavs still can't beat them? I clearly disagree.

Mat (Maryland)

Are any of our core players tradable?

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

You mean for the Terrapins?

Gonzalo (Spain)

Hi David, I added you as friend on facebook. What do you think about two spañish players like victor claver and sergio lull, can they be in NBA?

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

I don't know about them. I'll check up on them this week.

John (Dallas)

David, why the dislike of the Lakers, start of the season it was the Spurs, now its the Cavs. You're on the wrong wagon.

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

You are out of your mind.

Wes (NYC)

Hansbrough is at least as good as Scola, no?

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

No.

Deon Chicago il [via mobile]

Will the bulls upset Orlando in the 1st Rd

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

I would not expect it. But it could happen. Should be a good series.

Dan (portland)

Just wanted to say thanks for the chat and the classic Airplane quote that made my day!

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

My pleasure.

Peter (Chicago)

You seriously think the Celtics are a better match for the Bulls (from the Bulls' perspective) than the Magic?? Why?

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

Howard is just too agile and strong. He kills them inside and opens things up for everyone else. Bulls are so athletic, which gives the C's issues.

ESPN Chatters

Thorpe, what kind of expert are you? You've never seen DeRozan play and you've never heard of John Wall...Should I be taking over your job soon?

David Thorpe

  (12:57 PM)

I'm an NBA analyst, not a draft guru. In time, I'll be able to chat about both guys.

Matt (Chicago)

If you were the Bulls, would you resign Ben Gordon this off season? As great of a scorer as he is, the rest of his game(dribbling, defending, basketball IQ) can be very frustrating to watch. Plus his lack of size does not help matters.

David Thorpe

  (12:57 PM)

For the right price, yes.

David Stern (NBA)

Could I ask for more than a Kobe and Lebron finals. It's a marketing dream!

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

Slow down, lots of ball to be played.

Gabe (New Rochelle)

How awesome would a Blake Griffin Brook Lopez front line be?

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

Pretty awesome.

Todd Doug (Columbia, MO)

Who would you rather have for the next five years, Scola or Millsap?

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

Millsap.

Ahmad (Montreal, Canada)

>>> "My head hurts from trying to figure out .... can you simplify it for me? --- DT: Wait until morning.Classic!:)

David Thorpe

  (12:59 PM)

I do what I can!

Noah (Champaign, IL)

Which series will you watch most closely?

David Thorpe

  (12:59 PM)

The 4 that I'll be covering. Tune in this weekend to see.

David Thorpe

  (1:00 PM)

Time to fly, gotta get crackin' on the playoff stuff. Enjoy the first few games and I'll be back next week. Thanks everyone and be safe!!