ESPN

David Thorpe

  (12:00 PM)

Playoff fever has hit us all. What a great time to be an NBA fan. Let's have some fun this hour."your honor, your honor".

Raymond (CA)

Lakers in 5 over Cleveland?

David Thorpe

  (12:00 PM)

Time to leave the bar, Ray Ray.

Jordan (Chino Hills,CA)

Thorpedo who deserves to get punched in the face in the NBA?

David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

The TNT guys, except for EJ, and maybe Kenny.

Crawford (Dallas)

Enjoyed your take on the Noah article grasping at the intangibles. Does the star player have to be the motivator (Lebron) or can another player ignite and lead a team emotionally (since people doubt Dirk, on this).

David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

it can, and often does, come from lots of different sources.

Greg (Denver, CO)

Do you think Philly's win in Game 1 was a fluke or do they actually have a chance in this series?

David Thorpe

  (12:02 PM)

It was a fluke, sure, but of course they have a chance. A solid one.

Andy (Denver)

You up against Kiper, Stu Scott, Hanah Storm and others today, but we are all here because you are the chat guru. What are you seeing from the Lakers that would give you reason to worry at this point?

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

Only that they might be falling into the old Pistons pattern of turning it on and off. But I'm not concerned, yet.

Dave (LA)

So Thorpe are you suggesting that only a drunk person would think that the Lakers could beat the Cavs? If so, I think you need to put down the needle.

David Thorpe

  (12:04 PM)

Lakers can beat the Cavs, of course. But in 5? I think not.

Joe (Chicago)

If Derrick Rose is so good, why do his plus/minus numbers look so terrible in comparison to Kirk Hinrich's? Chicago has been outscored by 121 points with Rose on the floor this season, whereas with Hinrich on the floor they've outscored opponents by 203 points.

David Thorpe

  (12:05 PM)

He is dynamic on offense, but was terrible on d. Terrible. But I see signs of improvement. He'll end up being fine.

Kris (Simi Valley, CA)

Come on, nobody else got "Caddyshack" yet? I feel old.

David Thorpe

  (12:05 PM)

They did, I just have not posted them yet, sorry.

Rocko (NY)

Should Bulls fans be concerned about Tyrus Thomas' lack of rebounding?

David Thorpe

  (12:06 PM)

I am!! Sometimes it comes with blocking shots, but he does need to lock in more on the glass.

Andy (Rochester, NY)

You've already answered 6 questions to kiper's one!

David Thorpe

  (12:06 PM)

But his hair is shinier.

Joey (Edmond, OK)

Does Russell Westbrook just need to log about 300 jumpers a day and take better care of the ball to be an elite point guard in the NBA, or do you think his combo-ness will always hamper his passing development?

David Thorpe

  (12:07 PM)

I've never understood the idea that by simply taking more shots, your shot will get better. Change has to be introduced. I think he can be a 1 or a 2 as is, though.

Vinny Del Blanco (Sacramento)

if the Kings get the 1st pick do u believe theres a shot that we're going to go with Rubio?? i really believe we shuld take Griffin, i think Rubio isnt a good athlete and is going to b good but not what some people make him out to be? thanks

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

if that happens, an investigation should be launched.

Tim (DET)

It looks like Michael Curry can't do it, so let me ask you. What would be your gameplan if your team faced Lebron, coach?

David Thorpe

  (12:09 PM)

I'd do everything I could to mix things up as much as possible. Try to keep him guessing. Color code a bunch of audibles and change our looks every few times down.

Coop (Orlando)

Your facebook said you were at the Magic game Sunday, as was I. Would you agree with me that the last shot should have gone to Rashard or Lee after Turkoglu's horrible performance?

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

No, Turk is their guy at that point. But the play calling that whole quarter was suspect.

Eric (Otown, FL)

How do you measure yourself against other golfers? By height.

David Thorpe

  (12:11 PM)

300 plus lines I could have quoted from that classic of classics.

MT Chicago, IL

Is there any way to improve Joakim's jumpshot and his touch around the basket. He is admittedly better at finishing at the hoop than he was at the beginning of the year. If he can become respectable at the 10-12 foot area it would force opposing centers to guard them. Is it possible to change someone's form drastically to become a decent shooter? How difficult is that to accomplish?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

Jo has great touch, as anyone who has watched him the past few years can attest to (which means the tv guys have not been watching). His shot can be improved, of course.

rerun (su)

this is my friend wong...no offense. speaking of no offense, what are the celtics going to do with only 3 healthy big men?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

Punt, and perhaps go small.

Sean (Chicago)

Thoughts on the Vinny/timeout saga here in Chicago? I seem to be the only one sort of ok with it, seeing as I'd rather VDN stop runs and keep the team composed. That timeout doesn't help the Bulls much if the C's go on a huge run and the Bulls are down 10 in the closing seconds.

David Thorpe

  (12:13 PM)

They end up losing either way. Classic overcoaching from an inexperienced coach. Have to get your guys to learn to settle themselves sometimes. Vinny will figure that out.

James (UCLA)

Thorpedo, I heard that Jrue Holiday and Earl Clark are with you down in Florida. How do they look?

David Thorpe

  (12:15 PM)

Both are special talents. Nick Calathes is too. I'll give everyone a full rundown of who is here later next month.

Jason (Redondo Beach, CA)

"You could be right, or perhaps you lack the intelligence to gain the insight that I'm giving." That's your absolutely brilliant response to one of your haters a few chats back. And thank you for complimenting us, who love your chats precisely for the amazing amount of analysis they give. I'm reminded of a quote by Saint Exupéry: "Perfection is reached, not when there is no longer anything to add, but when there is no longer anything to take away."

David Thorpe

  (12:15 PM)

Thanks Jason, that means a lot to me.

Charlie (Bored at work)

If you were asked to do an ESPN commercial, which athlete, man or woman, would you like to co-star with?

David Thorpe

  (12:16 PM)

Earvin Magic Johnson.

Tyler (Sacramento, CA)

"Wanna make 14 dollars the hard way?" So I've decided the TNT guys are just awful. Chris Webber is a joke of an "analyst". They bicker as much as the chicks from the View do. It's unwatchable.

David Thorpe

  (12:16 PM)

Unwatchable.

Luis(Houston) [via mobile]

the Rockets in 6. Theres no way they come and beat us in our house. The refs basicly gave em the game in da end, Yao only had 6 shots and the blazers almost blew another game at home.

David Thorpe

  (12:17 PM)

The Rockets may win in 6, but it's not like Houston can't be beat at home.

Jeff (Davie)

What are the chances that Beasley is eventually considered the better player to Rose?

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

There is a chance, maybe 4 in 10? Just a guess. Both should be terrific.

Steiny (NYC)

How about a moment of silence for the finger wag? Dikembe Mutumbo, a warrior on the court and a great humanitarian.

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

Done!! Seems to be a truly special person.

chris (boise id)

lots of people saying this is kobe's last chance for a championship...with how young and experienced the laker's are this year, why can't next year or the year after be potential championship years as well?

David Thorpe

  (12:19 PM)

Other than Derek's age, i agree. They are set for a few years now.

Dale (Portland)

"It would not be a surprise if he scored 40 points in Game 2." That is what you wrote in your report. it gave me hope, cause I think you are a genius. But looking back, how did you know, considering how tough the Rockets defense is? Literally, I'm amazed by what you write.

David Thorpe

  (12:21 PM)

It's not so impressive, trust me. it was clear that he was just better than everyone, and I thought that I saw that Roy realized it during game one.

Mark (Hawaii)

What is it with TV producers putting ex-athletes in the booth? I'd much rather hear a former coach (like Doug Collins) or an analyst like your or Hollinger break down the game. Just b/c someone played doesn't mean that they're qualified to be on TV.

David Thorpe

  (12:21 PM)

Yep.

David Thorpe

  (12:21 PM)

But neither John or I want that job.

Ty Webb

Don't sell yourself short, David. You're a terrific slouch.

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

Probably my single favorite line.

Brian (Orlando, FL)

David,I just want you to thank you for telling me to buy the DirecTV pass halfway through the season. It was a fun half of the season.

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

The NBA really has become must watch tv.

Charles Barkley

Someone who deserves to get punched in the face is someone else I know.....YOU!!! This chat is turrrble.

David Thorpe

  (12:23 PM)

I'm just glad you are reading it. i don't suspect you spend much time doing that-studying the NBA, that is.

Sean (LA)

David - Love your stuff! Don't you think its a bit rediculous to question the Lakers toughness! Last time I checked the beat three 50 win teams last year on their way to the finals and just three weeks ago many people though Utah was the 2nd best team in the West and the Lake Show is up 2-0. Winning the west should be the true test! It must be nice for Cleveland to play the a pathetic Detroit team in round 1

David Thorpe

  (12:24 PM)

it's not, because of how softly they played against Boston.

Zach (Burlington, IA)

Do you enjoy "Eastbound and Down"?

David Thorpe

  (12:24 PM)

No.

Shanghai, China

Do you think Carmelo has it in him to completely dominate and alter a game like Lebron or Kobe in the playoffs? Is he still even truly considered on the same tier as Lebron and D-Wade anymore"

David Thorpe

  (12:24 PM)

No.

Marc (Philly)

I may be crazy, but I feel like the only way the 76ers can win is if Speights gets extended minutes at the 4. I know we won a game with him barely playing, but I feel like our only chance is with him using the mismatch against Lewis. What says you??

David Thorpe

  (12:25 PM)

I think that is a little crazy, but he could help them.

Tee (Chi)

Why all the hate on Charles Barkley and TNT? I've loved that show for years. I think Kenny, Charles, and Ernie compliment each other perfectly. Charles is the one analyst I know that will keep it completely real. It is great TV. I am amazed to hear that anyone could hate that show so much. Charles is the most unique and boldest commentator in all of sports.

David Thorpe

  (12:26 PM)

I used to love him too. But now it's a comedy show, and very little is unique or insightful.

Emil (Battle Creek, MI)

Do you think Rasheed Wallace will be a Piston next season and if not, who do you think Joe D. will go after to replace him?

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

I do not think he will be back. In fact, they should excuse him now. Because he has already excused himself.

Mitch (SLC)

ThorpeNation! When Kobe plays off Ronnie B and invites him to take the 15 foot shot, what do you say as a coach to boost his confidence so he can make that shot? Or can Ronnie Brewer even make that shot consistently?

David Thorpe

  (12:27 PM)

I'm not sure he can. I'd rather see him attack Kobe.

Paul (NY, NY)

Which of those "Where Will Amazing Happen This Year?" commercials is your favorite?

David Thorpe

  (12:28 PM)

I like all of them.Wish they would do some throwback ones. Willis Reed. Jordan. Magic. Gar Heard. Bird. Etc.

Raymond Felton, Charlotte

What do I need to do to get some respect?

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

You helped yourself a lot this year.

Joe (Chi-town)

You've given your opinion on some of the bulls players, but I'd like to know who do you think will win the series? Pierce said that the team only brought their "C game", but it seems to me, that they aren't going to play that much better than what they did on monday.

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

I'd still favor Boston.

Blake (Chicago)

If you were given a choice today to start your team with Deron Williams or Derrick Rose, who would you choose and why? Thanks Thorpe-a-palooza, you rock.

David Thorpe

  (12:31 PM)

Williams-he's already arrived. Rose may have a tinge more upside, but why risk it? Still, if "stuck" with Rose, I'd be smiling.

Frank (Brooklyn)

Who do you see being the breakout star of this post-season?

David Thorpe

  (12:31 PM)

Brooks, Noah, Big Baby?

rerun (su)

pool. and a pond. the pond would be good for you. have all the pistons given up, or just 'sheed?

David Thorpe

  (12:32 PM)

Sheed was a joke.

cj (Boyceville WI)

hey dave, how concerned should mike brown be about the play of the cavs in the 4th quarter last night?

David Thorpe

  (12:32 PM)

Not very.

David Thorpe

  (12:32 PM)

Frank (Brooklyn)

I like Brooks, but Noah and Baby will never be stars...How about Donyell Marshall?

David Thorpe

  (12:33 PM)

So Frank, you are saying two guys under 25 can't be stars, but that old guy can be? And, anyone can star in the postseason.

Pretty Please (Miami)

say YES if you think Miami will win tonight?

David Thorpe

  (12:33 PM)

...Get the picture?

Rocko (NY)

If Eric Gordon ever gets out of the misery known as the Clippers, he can be a special player.

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

Yes.

McGriddle: (Portland, OR)

Brandon Roy..........

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

is really #*#**#* good.

Coop (Orlando)

I know your a Florida guy. Who do you root for if Orlando/Miami played?

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

Nobody. Just want a good game.

Nat (Longmont, CO)

Thorpedo- melo hater. What will Melo have to do to get some respect from you. Defense is getting better and Chauncey will show him what a leader is. Nuggs losing in 6 to lakers and Melo takes over a game or two. That will still not be enough to get you to respect him.

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

I love his talent, but to think he'll reach Wades or LBJ's level is too much.

Rocko (NY)

Am I the only one who loves the toughness and energy that Joakim Noah is bringing to the Bulls right now?

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

Everyone can see it now.

Matt (ATL)

Love the chats David; profound, concise analysis, great attitude, and nothing but love for the game. That said:Old School > Anchorman > Talladega Nights, and I defy you to disagree!

David Thorpe

  (12:37 PM)

You got it wrong, dude. Nights, School, Man.

James (Sydney, Australia)

David, congratulations on the forecast of Roy's 40+ effort today. With Portland reverting to fronting Yao in the post and denying entry passes what changes to you envisage Adelman making to restore the Rockets offensive flow?

David Thorpe

  (12:38 PM)

I have to study more film, but maybe more pinch post stuff, and a lot less Artest three's.

Andrea (KY)

How about some love for Rajon Rondo?

David Thorpe

  (12:38 PM)

he's unreal.

Evan (Boston)

Is Lamarcus going to be a sheed type player?

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

He'll be better than that.

Duane(Compton,Ca) [via mobile]

Who should the Pistons trade, resign,or release to be a instant winner again?

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

Altogether now...goodbye Sheed.

Jay (Sacramento)

Hey David I'm 6 ft tall and I just dunked for the first time last night. What's a good workout to get some leg explosion? (Excluding squats, my knees are pitifully fragile...)

David Thorpe

  (12:40 PM)

Lots more dunkig is needed.

Nick (Tampa)

What was your favorite NBA team while growing up?

David Thorpe

  (12:41 PM)

I lived and died for the Lakers. I WAS Norm Nixon, for crying out loud.

Cosmo (Anytown, USA)

I'll go with you on the equation, but I'll add this: Caddyshack > Nights.

David Thorpe

  (12:41 PM)

That's like saying your character was funnier than the Skipper.

Mike (Durham, NC)

David,Love your analysis. What can the Bulls do to keep Boston off the offensive boards in Game 3?

David Thorpe

  (12:42 PM)

They have to bring a much tougher mindest.

Frank Atlanta Ga.

Hey david, have the hawks got a shot to upset Cleveland in the second round? double team lebron and i think we do

David Thorpe

  (12:43 PM)

They'll put up a great fight, especially in Atl.

Carlo (Philippines)

where do you think A.I will be next season?

David Thorpe

  (12:43 PM)

Honestly, I don't care. Does anyone?

Noah (Champaign, IL)

Any earth day plans?

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

After this chat, I have one more shooting class to run, then drive 70 minutes home, crank out 3 scouting reports from last night, coach my son's baseball team, workout, then watch magic game on DVR. Them's my plans.

Chuck (Los Angeles)

Put A.I. AND Sheed on the Clippers. Can't think of a better scenario. Can you?

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

Best idea I've heard all day.

Kyle, Hobart Australia

Hey David, what's your take on the john wall situation? Do you think he will try to apply for the draft?

David Thorpe

  (12:46 PM)

I do not.

Marc (Malden, MA)

Very sad news about Leon Powe. This will be his 3rd reconstructive surgery on the same knee. May never play again and will be missed by Celtics fans.

David Thorpe

  (12:46 PM)

Truly awful.

Allen Iverson (Whereabout, Unknown)

We talkin' bout Iverson? Iverson? Not Igudala. Not a player in the playoffs? Iverson? We talkin' bout Iverson?

David Thorpe

  (12:46 PM)

Nice.

Matt (St. Paul, MN)

It's been a few years since I have played hoops regularly, but I jog, etc. to stay in shape. I am committed to start playing again in a few weeks.Any particular exercises you would recommend to work on as a crash-course?

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

Mix in some sprintwork, not just jogging. And jumprope would be good too.

Andy (LA)

If you are really a Nixon fan, answer this: Norm Nixon was traded to the (San Diego) Clippers for the draft rights to whom?

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

Byron #4 Scott.

Bustos (Orlando)

Who is more annoying...Lakers or Cavs fans?

David Thorpe

  (12:48 PM)

Neither.

allen (philippines)

hi david. great game by deron. what do you think is deron williams' ceiling as a player? and do you think that his stats (excluding steals) seem inferior compared to cp3 is because of sloan's rigid offensive sets as compared to scott's give-it-to-paul-and-let-him-make-plays type of sets?

David Thorpe

  (12:49 PM)

You have not been watching. Williams gets all sorts of freedom.

al gore

david, please take some time during your busy schedule today to plant a tree.

David Thorpe

  (12:49 PM)

I'd rather find time to eat something. I'm on 5 wheat thins and some Vitamin Water as of now.

Tanner (DC)

what if the kings get # 1 and the Wizards get # 2. could they work out a trade so that the Wiz get griffen and the kings get the guy they might secretly want AND something else?

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

I'm not against moving down if they can add more talent and picks.

Jason (Bmore)

Would you agree that Pau Gasol may in fact have the best footwork and touch for any big man in the league at this moment?

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

He's way up there, sure. Duncan is not to be forgotten.

Chris (OKC)

If the Lakers lose in the playoffs should they consider trading Kobe while he still has value like they did with Shaq?

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

You said it, not me.

Sean (Chicago)

In an effort to ease many Bulls fans minds, do you think Noah is already better than Chandler? Or soon will be?

David Thorpe

  (12:52 PM)

I think he'll end up better, yes.

Jason (Brooklyn)

Do you think McHale should coach the Wolves next year?

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

yes.

Ant Pappa (MIT, Cambridge, MA)

What's up with all the whining about Garnett's antics on the bench? He is just being a leader the only way he knows how.

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

I have no problem with it at all.

Nick (Tampa)

If the Bulls blow out Boston in game 3, will you still think that Boston wins the series?

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

Game 5 should be the answer.

Tony: Maine

Al Jefferson for footwork and touch for a big man.

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

His touch is phenomenal. Not his footwork, but for him it does not matter.

MC Welk (SLC)

If you were Kevin O'Connor would youA) Trade Carlos BoozerB) Trade Andrei KirilenkoC) Trade Memo OkurD) All of the aboveE) None of the above

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

I'd consider all 3.

Coop (Orlando)

Do you have any revisions on your Magic series pick?

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

Perhaps. I want to see the magic chemistry tonight.

Jason (Detroit)

Why does Michael Curry wait until Pistons are down 30 before he puts in spark plugs like Maxiell and Bynum? Starters besides Dyess just don't have it anymore.

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

He had better learn that lesson.

Sean (Chicago)

It's not that I have a problem with KG's antics I just think he looks like an idiot with the faces he's making and the f-bombs he's dropping at the Bulls bench.

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

He is who he is. Deal with it or don't.

Noah (Champaign, IL)

What kind of phone do you use?

David Thorpe

  (12:57 PM)

I have 2 Blackberry 8800's and one Nokia N73 videocamera phone.

Sam (Cambridge, MA)

What is your thought on going for blocks vs boards? Noah and TT always go for the blocks, but then they are out of position to protect the rim or rebound when the Cs (usually) get the ball back.

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

Bulls guards need to engage down there and help.

Jason (Bmore)

I think that Rick Adelman has done a heckuva job getting the most out of his players considering the fill-ins and injuries that have plagued the team.

David Thorpe

  (12:58 PM)

I agree.

Jason (Brooklyn)

How do you talk on 3 phones at once? Are you the devil?

David Thorpe

  (12:59 PM)

I tend to burn through batteries fast.

Dan (Canton)

What's the deal with Tebow? After such a successful college career why doesn't he project to be a starting NFL QB?

David Thorpe

  (1:00 PM)

It's a mystery to me, too. And as I told Calathes yesterday, "your team could have used some Tebow toughness!!". He agreed.

David Thorpe

  (1:00 PM)

By the way, I heard Obama...wears Tebow pajamas.

Chris (FL)

Have you ever played at SW Rec at the University of Florida? I play there pretty much every day, I think it would be cool to play with you.

David Thorpe

  (1:01 PM)

It would have been, back in the day. Yes, I've been there many times.

EDB(Seattle)

Does Vinny need to find more time for Kirk? His plus/minus is crazy..

David Thorpe

  (1:01 PM)

Excellent point.

Brian (Orlando, FL)

NICE with the Obama Tebow statement.

David Thorpe

  (1:02 PM)

Time to go. Thanks everyone. Have a great weekend and be safe.