David Thorpe

  (2:00 PM)

I'm here!! Thanks for waiting. I gave my students the afternoon off so I wanted to drive home before chatting. Lots to get to, lottery, draft, playoffs, and The Debate. I'm playing the gentle but emotional "La Wally" by Catalani. "Extra primo good Mr. Colman sir".

Brandon:Ft.Lauderdale Fl

I think Kobe is still the most dominant player in the Nba, but Lebron is....no words can describe him he's just simply Lebron.

MJ (Palm Beach)

Isn't much of a debate. LBJ is the best all around player in the league. Has been for a couple years. My question is, who was better at 24, LBJ or MJ?

Jeff (NYC)

Is it blasphemy to consider that LeBron might eventually surpass MJ as the greatest player of all time? I think it may be possible from a "basketball" standpoint but MJ's influence in globalizing the sport may not ever be topped...

David Thorpe

  (2:03 PM)

Ok, let's address this now. LBJ is the best player in the world. That does not mean he's the best shooter, or the best closer, or the most clutch. It means that all things being considered, he mas the most positive impact for his team overall. On any team, he'd be better for that team than any other guy. Period. Yes, I think he's better overall at 24 than anyone ever has. I'm not sure Kobe is 2nd best, ot be honest. Wade, CP3, even Duncan are fair candidates.

Kantad (NYC)

Do you think it possible the clips take Rubio instead of Griffin?

David Thorpe

  (2:04 PM)

No.

JV Felony, Concord, N.C.

Would winning a championship this season be enough for Lebron to put an end to all of the "Kobe/Lebron: Who's better" debate talk?

David Thorpe

  (2:04 PM)

No it would not, Kobe's supporters are very loyal.

Juan (Miami, FL)

With today's NBA "rules" MJ would just be out of this world with the stats line. Put LBJ in the mid 80's and he wouldn't make it to a full season.

David Thorpe

  (2:05 PM)

Excellent point, one I've mentioned before.

Josh (STL)

Thorpe! Why aren't you writing the Scouts, inc scouting reports for the west any longer? Was it because you picked the Lakers to win every game in the Rockets series?

David Thorpe

  (2:05 PM)

No, I wanted to cover the east finals because I did the west last year.

JP (Columbus, OH)

Any chance Curry doesn't make it to the 8th pick for NYK?

David Thorpe

  (2:06 PM)

Sure. I think he's possible for the top 5.

Andy (Denver)

Is it possible, as Chad Ford thinks, that the Grizz would pass on Rubio? If so, would that be akin to the Pistons passing on Melo?

David Thorpe

  (2:06 PM)

I agree with Chad.

Sackings78, Sacramento, CA

We'll us king fans,knew we weren't getting the top 2 picks. So this was expected. At number 4 what should we do or draft? and Who do you think would be a better fit next to martin. Holiday or Jennings

David Thorpe

  (2:07 PM)

I've heard really strong opinions, all positive, about Jennings. He's likely a real candidate. Holiday flies to Sacto today. But I think they'll consider some 3's and 4's too.

Wizz Fan

Is Harden a decent player, or will his lack of effort carry over to teh NBA?

David Thorpe

  (2:07 PM)

I've never liked him or the system he played in, but I'm in the minority.

Dan (Buffalo, NY)

Thorpedo, Bill Simmons thinks the Cavs will win in 5 (at most) and I've read others that say it will definatly go 7. What says you?

David Thorpe

  (2:08 PM)

Cavs in 6, but going 7 would not be a surprise. 5 would be.

Eddie (Sacramento)

Please coach Thorpe, give me some hope for my Kings. Do you see Rubio magically falling to #4??

David Thorpe

  (2:08 PM)

No chance.

Derrick (Toronto)

Does the Triano hiring have lame duck written all over it? The feelins up here is that the Raptors should have gone with a more experienced coach.

David Thorpe

  (2:09 PM)

I think he's very good and it was an excellent pick.

Chris Minnesota

I'm quite sick of hearing about the great Blake Griffin. When your competition is a big group of so-so high school players, it is pretty easy to appear great. Same with that Tyler kid from UNC, wait til they get in the NBA and bust within 2 yrs.

David Thorpe

  (2:09 PM)

It's called therapy, Chris. Look into it and try to find a reason to smile.

Kevin,Miami

Its unbelievable that D-Wade still gets no respect.

David Thorpe

  (2:10 PM)

Stop believing the commercials.

Chris (Hacienda Heights, CA)

With Kobe, LBJ, and Howard in the way for many years go come, will Wade ever become the MVP of the league?

David Thorpe

  (2:10 PM)

He's a candidate every season.

CM (Memphis)

How is Calathes looking? Good enough for Memphis to trade down, pass on Rubio, get Thabeet at the four or five, and pick up Calathes for their 2nd first round pick?

David Thorpe

  (2:11 PM)

He looks great-but he and a lot of other guys need to play well at the big workouts with half the league attending each of them.

Aaron Burgin (vista, ca)

So... Game 1 is in the books. Didn't the Lakers' showing kinda remind you of Game 1 of the Houston series, just with a different outcome?

David Thorpe

  (2:11 PM)

These are two evenly matched teams. So I gave the Lakers an advantage thanks to the home court and more Finals experience.

Tanner (DC)

Thorpedo! Just looking for a name please! Who would be the best fit for the Wizards at #5?

David Thorpe

  (2:12 PM)

Curry. The USC kid maybe.

SteveFitz (Cicero, IL)

Does Blair fight his way to the top 5?

David Thorpe

  (2:13 PM)

I don't think so, but one of 3, 4, or 5 could trade down I guess.

rick (beaumont tx)

Why is everyone saying that lebron is better than kobe when lebron doesnt even have 1 ring and kobe has 3 ?

David Thorpe

  (2:13 PM)

By that measure, Robert Horry is 5 times greater than Wade?

Josh

whats the best pick for thunder?

David Thorpe

  (2:13 PM)

Rubio.

Joe (Minneapolis)

Best pick for the Wolves at #6?

David Thorpe

  (2:14 PM)

Maybe Evans.

David Thorpe

  (2:14 PM)

They like Holiday too.

Lc (NYC)

answer this plz.....sacremento trade pick for extra picks ?

David Thorpe

  (2:14 PM)

I endorse that idea totally.

Derrick (Toronto)

What are your thoughts on Tyreke Evans?

David Thorpe

  (2:15 PM)

Great scorer is all I've seen.

Blake Griffin (Los Angeles)

Thorpe, should I be happy that I'm going to play for the Clippers?

David Thorpe

  (2:15 PM)

Of course. Let's not get greedy.

Ryan(Toronto)

Hey Coach, i think i ask you this question every chat, do you have any internships available at your camps? I would love to learn from one of the best

David Thorpe

  (2:16 PM)

Maybe. Contact me via facebook or in my mailbag at espn.

Mitch (SLC)

ThorpeNation! Who would you rather have, Amare or Bosh?

David Thorpe

  (2:17 PM)

Bosh, due to injuries to Amare.

Dan, Storrs, CT

Hi David, thanks for chatting. Huge Tony Gaffney/UMass fan....can you update us on his progress, his chances of making a roster, and the type of lpayer you'd compare him too? He's a great kid, glad you are workig with him. Thanks.

David Thorpe

  (2:18 PM)

I got 10 questions about Gaffney today so far-he's an amazing story and one of my all-time faves as students go. He's got some Birdman in him, without the baggage. Can defend 3's. Working out in Indiana today.

salem, OR

Hey, What do you think the Blazers need to do in the off-season to continue improving. Any trades? Who?

David Thorpe

  (2:19 PM)

Toughness on the perimeter. And a better scoring 3 who can defend.

Jonny (Milwaukee)

From what you've heard, are the Bucks interested in Blair at #10?

David Thorpe

  (2:19 PM)

Yes, they came down here to watch him last week. He and a few others are possibles for them. Maybe 5-8 guys now.

Ted (Lincoln)

Thorpe, just so you know, my dream is to hear you on a podcast with Simmons. There, I said it. Now it's on you.

David Thorpe

  (2:20 PM)

Actually, it's on him. I think it would be fun, but I probably rank 876th on his potentials list.

Tom (Houston)

What I am about to say is going to sound weird, but I have to know if you agree: JJ Redick's DEFENSE on Ray Allen was a big reason why Orlando won that series.

David Thorpe

  (2:21 PM)

Without doubt. Very aware and tough in that effort.

Nick (Hamilton)

Looks like some of your boys (Holliday, Clark, even Blair) could be a fit for the Raptors at 9. What do you think?

David Thorpe

  (2:22 PM)

Clark is a bit too similar to too may guys on their roster-lean and skilled. The other 2 are certainly possible.

Eric (Oneonta, NY)

If Bucks go for Blair does that mean Charlie Villanueva is wearing a different uni next season?

David Thorpe

  (2:23 PM)

It's not about Blair or any other draftee, can they afford Charlie?

John (Philly)

Hi Dave - love your chats, might not be the answers I'm looking for or agree with, but they are entertaining. For the longest time, I've felt that Kobe was the best player on the planet. I think it was this year that I was finally convinced that Lebron has topped him. My question is, if Kobe didn't have all of these "negative" images, would he be given more respect? By the way, MJ has done more the NBA than anyone will ever do, but Lebron will trump him as the best player ever. My order for best player ever (assuming things stay the same, but usually don't) is Lebron > MJ > Kobe. I know you might not agree on Kobe, but when all is said and done in his career (I picture 2 more rings), he'll earn the respect of the media.

David Thorpe

  (2:24 PM)

Thanks, and you make excellent points.

Dan (Rock Island, IL)

How 'bout some love for melo last night. He was spectacular!

David Thorpe

  (2:24 PM)

Dominating and explosive. Fantastic and awesome.

Grizzled Ol' Blues Man

In Philadelphia its worth fifty-bucks..

David Thorpe

  (2:24 PM)

That was my second choice for a quote.

Brandon (Easton, PA)

I still think Kobe is the best player in the NBA. He seems to be able to shift gears and has an extra overdrive gear that no one else has, especially in the 4th quarter. Look at yesterday with Carmelo going off and then all the sudden Kobe has 40 and the W. He can turn it on and off when he wants he is still the best and most dominant when he turns it on and it is going for him. But LBJ has consistently shown he plays at a high level gear all game and every game. Thoughts?

David Thorpe

  (2:25 PM)

If you are asking if at times, is Kobe the best? I'd say sure, but we can't break it down like that.

Travis (Bay Area, CA)

FYI... Horry is supposedly 7 times greater than DWade

David Thorpe

  (2:25 PM)

Bingo.

Jason (Atl)

I don't know about baskletball player, but Lebron is the greatest physical specimen ever to play any sport. ever. period. right?

David Thorpe

  (2:26 PM)

Bruce Smith was pretty unbelievable. So was LT.

Sportstown

Reddick played good D but it turns out Allen had a pulled hammy that was bothering him in that series. In fact, Perk & Pierce both had injuries that may require surgery. More impressive they took the Magic to 7 games?

David Thorpe

  (2:27 PM)

Right, and Doc had Pink Eye too. And I think House used a prosthetic leg, right?

Billy Ray (On an Island Somewhere)

Looking Good Thorpedo!! Will Curry be a good pro? is he going to the Knicks?

David Thorpe

  (2:27 PM)

I love that kid. Shotmaker extraordinaire, great passer and feel.

Bo Jackson

I was a physical specimen back in the day.

David Thorpe

  (2:29 PM)

Indeed, I saw you in person at Florida field, where every stop sign in Gainesville had the word "BO" on them. And we did do that, as we stomped those Tigers, er War Eagles, er Plainsmen.

shu (atl)

what will the hawks do in the draft and the offseason? Will they bring back Childress?

David Thorpe

  (2:29 PM)

Not sure about the draft yet, but I do expect Childress to return.

Mike (Irvine, CA)

thank you thorpe, how shameless was that of Doc Rivers, he should have been proud that a skeleton crew took Orlando to 7 instead of making excuses.

David Thorpe

  (2:30 PM)

Whatever. Celts and Magic at full strength I take the Magic every time.

MoochieD(Vicksburg, MS)

Do you think the rest will hurt MY Cavs?

David Thorpe

  (2:30 PM)

No.

Ellis (South Beach FL)

Coach Thorpedo... Do you see the Heat moving Haslem, he is the only real option movable to get some good in return (O'Neal expiring = 2010 bonanza).. really don't like the idea but Beasley needs big PT also Haslem.. what about GSt (Turiaf, Wright/Randolph?).

David Thorpe

  (2:31 PM)

Pat Riley said he's basically not tradeable.

Zohaib (Los Angeles, CA)

Serenity Now! Serenity Now! hey coach, what's your top 5 players of all time?

David Thorpe

  (2:31 PM)

Jordan, Magic, Bird, Kareem, Duncan.

John (Los Angeles)

If you were in charge of the Clippers what would your next move me?

David Thorpe

  (2:32 PM)

Dumping as many bad contracts as possible.

Andy (mtl)

Do you think that nuggets have enough this series .

David Thorpe

  (2:32 PM)

It's possible, just not likely.

Dildeep (Toronto, ON)

Who do the Raptors draft

David Thorpe

  (2:32 PM)

Defense or toughness.

Eddie: Tallahasse, FLorida

What college coaches, head or assistant might make good NBA coaches as either a head or assistant coach?

David Thorpe

  (2:34 PM)

Lon Kruger was a big mentor for me early in my career, and he's an amazing program builder. He just needs a strong management team next to him. Stan Jones, associate head coach at Florida State, should be on an NBA bench as a def. or off. coordinator.

Andy (Denver)

How would your rank 'em: Phil, George, Mike, and SVG?

David Thorpe

  (2:35 PM)

Tossup.

Sean (Chicago)

Lots of Bulls fans are restless and already looking to get out from under Deng's contract. Please tell me they can calm down and that with a proper offense next year Deng can return to posting 18/8 with great efficiency?

David Thorpe

  (2:36 PM)

I wish I could. I certainly hope so. He had it figured out in January before the stress fracture.

Bill (Jacksonville)

How will GErald Henderson be in the NBA?

David Thorpe

  (2:36 PM)

Very talented. I only question his motor, Coach K gets everyone to play so hard but few NBA coaches do that.

G-Rod (in 45 miles south of.....the ROSE CITY)

do you think lawson will fall to 24? and should the blazers draft him or stick with Rodriguez at back up PG?

David Thorpe

  (2:37 PM)

I don't see Lawson falling that far.

kevin (ct)

Magic every time?? You don't think a mobile Pierce and a full-strength Allen, plus a healthy KG and Powe doesn't turn the tides of that series?

David Thorpe

  (2:38 PM)

People forget that when Nelson went down, Orlando had the league's best record. And he's the unquestioned leader of that team.

Jonny (Milwaukee)

Does rondo's defense and rebounding ability make him as valuable as chris paul or does he need to add more to his game?

David Thorpe

  (2:38 PM)

He's incredible, but getting a better shot can only help.

Joe (Memphis)

IF Griffin measures out at 6'6" barefoot,does he slip?

David Thorpe

  (2:39 PM)

Yes, but unless he has surgery to remove some bone he won't measure that small.

Jack (Denver)

I don't think the Lakers except Kobe is very good. Denver has an edge in every position, no?

David Thorpe

  (2:39 PM)

No.

Alex (Oak Park, IL)

Jeff Teague=Louis Williams?

David Thorpe

  (2:40 PM)

That would be a good thing-Louis can play!

Mike (Dallas)

Whats the chance the Mavs get Jonny Flynn?

David Thorpe

  (2:40 PM)

At 22? Slim.

devin howell michigan

will handbrough and better than oden in the nba

David Thorpe

  (2:40 PM)

No.

Cesar (Tempe)

DId you see Nash's agent wants at least 14 million dollars if he were to get an extension? That's ridiculous!

David Thorpe

  (2:41 PM)

I didn't see that. Wow.

Henry (Cincinnati)

Simmons says Cleveland should play Howard straight-up and stay with the shooters because Howard has no post moves. Agree?

David Thorpe

  (2:42 PM)

They've tried that and it hasn't worked. He's forgetting that Ilgauskas and Varejao are not Perkins.

kentdenero, brooklyn

hey dave, i've been debating this the last couple of days with friends. does melo have the second best offensive skill set in the NBA? or should we be looking at roy or durant?

David Thorpe

  (2:42 PM)

It's all so close. Melo and Wade are at the top with Kobe and LBJ and CP3.

Tom(Philly)

Hello Mr. Thorpe! Love your chats. My son and I are big 76ers fans but we can't figure out how they're going to improve this offseason. Would Calathes be a good fit? How do his skills compare to someone like Maynor?

David Thorpe

  (2:43 PM)

I actually like Calathes and Maynor for them. They need shooters and passers. Both guys work.

Steve (Cleveland)

Will the 2003 NBA draft go down as the best of all time?

David Thorpe

  (2:44 PM)

it's close to be sure.

kevin (ct)

Here's the real question -- Chauncey Billups for HoF? If it were me, it would be a no brainer yes but I get the feeling that his reputation still doesn't match his accomplishments. Would you vote for him?

David Thorpe

  (2:44 PM)

Not yet.

Nick (New York)

Hi Dave. I like you. You're an otherwise extremely bright basketball mind. But it might be time to take off the Florida blinders, if only for a couple of minutes. Jameer Nelson does not equal Kevin Garnett and Leon Powe. It's not that close, either. Sorry.

David Thorpe

  (2:47 PM)

They are not blinders. As I suggested, the Magic were the #1 seed when he went down. Nelson was more than just their 2nd best player, he anchored everything and was a strong leader. Let's agree to disagree-and besides, KG and Powe would have made the Celtics amazing again, I am not doubting that at all.

Bryan Oklahoma

If you're the Thunder do you take Harden or DeRozen? Thabust could not compete against top tier talent.

David Thorpe

  (2:47 PM)

Derozen is interesting. I have not seen him enough. Can he shoot yet, or can he learn?

kwame(atlanta)

Hey Dave! what do think about Gerald henderson's chances as a lottery pick and was his decision to go the NBA a good idea in your opinion?

David Thorpe

  (2:48 PM)

Going pro was a no-brainer.

Patrick (Oakland, Ca)

It's so easy to fly through your chats with the 5 word responses you give...makes for a good read....thanks

David Thorpe

  (2:48 PM)

Thanks. i like it too.

Exchange Student From Cameroon

Merry New Year!!! Beef Jerky?

David Thorpe

  (2:49 PM)

It was the Caddyshack of its' day.

La,california

Kobe will go down as the greatest scorer of all-time when his career is over. you agree?

David Thorpe

  (2:49 PM)

No.

Andy (LA)

What's your game 2 predictions for Nuggets - Lakers?

David Thorpe

  (2:50 PM)

Last minute win for someone.

Rick (DC)

Who do you think the Thunder take? The idea of drafting Rubio to pair with Westbrook, Durant, and Jeff Green has to be very appealing...

David Thorpe

  (2:50 PM)

Someone told me today that they don't like the pairing because neither can shoot. But I bet Rubio ends up being a very good shooter.

LeBron James

Does Curry getting drafted make me a lock in to wear a Knickerbockers jersey?

David Thorpe

  (2:51 PM)

As I wrote last week, that's the dumbest thing I've ever read.

Adnan(Chicago)

What moves do you think the Bulls should do this summer? Does Tyrus Thomas need a change of scenery?

David Thorpe

  (2:51 PM)

I think it's very likely.

Brandon(alabama)

I'm sick of people saying that Lebron James is the best in the NBA he's good but not ready for the last level that is the championship On that level it can't just be a one man team the whole team have to want it in order to get it.Kobe Bryant an the Lakers know how it fell to be there and work like a team to win it and i think that what going to happen.

David Thorpe

  (2:51 PM)

LeBron James is the best in the NBA.

Blake (Chicago)

I heard Miami was considering trading Beasley for Bosh. As a Bulls fan (with Bosh and Wade on the brain for 2010) this concerns me. Should it?

David Thorpe

  (2:53 PM)

If you are asking should you be concerned about the Bulls chances of winning the East if Bosh and Wade are together, I think you know my answer. It's the same as yours.

David (Sacramento)

Please answer this for all of us depressed Kings fans...what should the Kings do next?

David Thorpe

  (2:53 PM)

Punt.

Brendan (St. Louis)

Glad to see you list Duncan in your all time top 5. As you mentioned, Kobe has very loyal followers but don't you find it interesting that many say Kobe is superior to LeBron because he has 3 rings yet there is also the assumption that Kobe is better than Duncan despite Tim having 4 rings and 3 Finals MVPs while Kobe has 3 rings and no Finals MVPs?

David Thorpe

  (2:53 PM)

You are wise.

Jeremy Blase (Atlanta, Ga)

Please answer my question been trying for 2 chats now!! If Kobe and Lebron meet in the Finals and Kobe comes away with the Championship and MVP Honors, does that change the "who is better" debate. And wouldn't the clear answer then be - Kobe?

David Thorpe

  (2:54 PM)

You tell me, what if Orlando beats both the Cavs and Lakers. Is Dwight then the best?

Mike (Ohio)

Speaking of the Kings, do you ever see the NBA back in Kansas City?

David Thorpe

  (2:55 PM)

Ask me after the Kings lose 60 games next year and don't vote for a new arena.

Jeremy (Boston)

Who would you rather have next season? Birdman or Big baby?

David Thorpe

  (2:55 PM)

Birdman.

JV Felony (Concord, NC)

I saw on SportsCenter how Shaq is considering broadcasting. Think that's a good idea?

David Thorpe

  (2:55 PM)

Yes, we don't have nearly enough former players on tv.

Ed (Charlotte)

You say OKC wants a shooter at #3, so wouldn't Curry be the perfect fit there? He and Westbrook would be a dynamite backcourt, no?

David Thorpe

  (2:57 PM)

Most people would consider that a bit of a reach. But I'm not one of them.

Charles Barkley (some other network)

I think Shaq would be turribull as a broadcaster

David Thorpe

  (2:58 PM)

Right, because he'd have to know more than just who the superstars are. Oops, maybe that's not so important, ha Chuck?

SAS (CALI)

Lakers win4 games to 1

David Thorpe

  (2:58 PM)

I think Denver can win twice.

Mike (Chicago)

Bill Simmons said in his last chat that the Clips ticket sales dept only got 9 phone calls after the found out they got the number 1 overall pick. Should they be the ones looking to relocate?

David Thorpe

  (2:59 PM)

wow.

Slim Loc (Lodi, CA)

Huh? Howard is not in the Kobe-Lebron debate. Nice way to try and deflect from the topic everyone is chatting about. You just can't give Kobe any credit can you? No matter what happens, you will always downplay Kobe. Now that is pathetic.

David Thorpe

  (2:59 PM)

Always, except when I picked him for the MVP last year.

David (Chamberlain SD)

Gerald Henderson.. a rich man's Dahntay Jones?

David Thorpe

  (3:00 PM)

Not as tough?

David Thorpe

  (3:00 PM)

Time to go. Henry Abbott just called and I need my Truehoop fix. See everyone next week. Be safe!!