David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

Hey Sportsnation, great NBA season unfolding. Send in good questions, and I'll answer it with as hort a response as possible!!"Stay away from the light!!".

Marc (Charlotte)

Buzz, is Thorpe chatting today?

David Thorpe

  (12:01 PM)

Yes!

leland (pittsburgh)

why do nba superstars coalesce so well on the olympic team, but when it comes to the nba their ego's supersede the "teams win" attitude?

David Thorpe

  (12:02 PM)

Coaching is the relevant variable here.

Joakim Noah (Chicago)

Why am I playing so well? Who's a good player comparison for me?

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

Your size and athleticism combined with your motor give you huge advantages. You are a very unique player.

Marc (Charlotte)

Nice new pic.

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

It's the jacket, but thanks.

Joe (NYC)

Any chance that JR Smith changing his name is a sign that maybe he's maturing a bit, or is that just wishful thinking?

David Thorpe

  (12:03 PM)

It looks like it's happening, with or without the name change.

David (Dallas)

Are other teams beginning to take notice of Dallas as a serious threat? Damp in a contract year, some VERY hungry veterans, good bench depth, and a solid coach = serious challenging potential. THOUGHTS?

David Thorpe

  (12:04 PM)

I think every team in the west see's them as a contender.

David (Charlotte)

If Ty Lawson were getting 35 minutes per game like Tyreke Evans, Johnny Flynn and Brandon Jennings, would he be considered as the best rookie point guard?

David Thorpe

  (12:04 PM)

Check out my rookie report, up shortly.

Gill (MPLS, MN)

Non-masochistic Timberwolves fan here. Is there any reason to go to a game until March?

David Thorpe

  (12:05 PM)

Flynn and Brewer are good young talents, and Al will come around as the season unfolds.

Jahmal (Indianapolis)

Do you think Roy Hibbert, right now, is in the running for most improved player?

David Thorpe

  (12:05 PM)

Without doubt.

Danny (Philly)

Isn't it time to get Marreese Speights in the starting line-up? The kid is sick.

David Thorpe

  (12:05 PM)

It's past time.

Dan L (New York, NY)

Chad Ford thinks that both LeBron and Bosh could wind up in Miami. Would David Stern allow that? I mean, why even bother to play the games?

David Thorpe

  (12:06 PM)

I may have been the first guy to "spread" that rumor, as I see it as a real possibility. For LBJ anyway.

Thomas (Oslo)

Hi Mr. David, Can we be Facebook friends? Do you tell friends when you publish?

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

Yes we can (as long as you don't have a pic of yourself holding a gun as your profile pic-that's where I draw the line. David B. Thorpe on facebook, coachthorpe on twitter. And yes, I update those sites when I'm publishing a story or appearing on radio/tv. I'll be on Sacramento radio tomorrow morning, 7:20am pacific, to discuss the surprising Kings.

charlie (new york)

david can you shed any light on the omissions of eric gordon and chris kaman from the western conference all star ballot?

David Thorpe

  (12:08 PM)

I think Marc Stein wrote about that this morning on espn.com.

BENEDICT (Annecy, France)

Could Joakim Noah strong start definitly convince his doubters he will be one face of the Bulls for a decade? Out of Shaq, Howard and Bogut, which center is above in the East? ASG material?

David Thorpe

  (12:09 PM)

I think Noah should be an all-star, if the game was scheduled for next week. Let's see if he keeps it up, but only D12 is outplaying him right now.

JT (Thailand)

Chances Bucks are able to find anybody willing to take Redd's bloated contract so Meeks can stay Jennings back court mate?

David Thorpe

  (12:10 PM)

It's possible, but doubtful.

Barry (Florida)

With Lebron James saying winning is first and money is second doesnt that still have all signs pointing to resigning with the Cavs? Who else out there can pay him a "reasonable" salary that is anywhere close to the Cavs?

David Thorpe

  (12:11 PM)

I'd suggest paying no attention to what he said. He's not serious. If he was, he wouldn't have taken it back. What he means is, "after I get my max deal, winning is most important". Every NBA player would say the same thing.

neeraj (chicago)

What do you think of Taj Gibson's play this year? hes hitting his jumpers and playing pretty good D

David Thorpe

  (12:11 PM)

He's fighting for a top 10 spot in my report.

Montgomery,al [via mobile]

What are the chances the thunder acquire a quality big man?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

To do so they would have to move some valuable pieces. Not so easy to do that.

Chops (Las Vegas)

Hi David.Please settle this argument for me and a friend (and almost feel the question is ban worthy, but a bet is a bet): who is the better PG...rondo or mo williams? And is it even close?

David Thorpe

  (12:12 PM)

it is ban worthy, almost, and no, it's not close.

Eddie (Fresno)

Is Jason Thompson having an unusually good week, or can he be a legit 18 and 10 guy in this league?

David Thorpe

  (12:13 PM)

18 is possible if the Kings play really fast, but 10 is legit in any style.

Gary (Atlanta, GA)

Thorpe, I've always kind of disliked you, mostly because I remember you and Chad Ford talking draft, he liked Al Horford best and you liked Noah. I love Big Al, oh yes I do, but Noah now appears to me to be the better player. How did you see that coming?

David Thorpe

  (12:14 PM)

Noah is just so unique, and always has been. He's had an unreal motor since I first saw him in practice his freshman year. Imagine how good he could have been had he been given chances his rookie year.

J.G. (OKC)

If you were Scott Brooks, would you try and find a way to get James Harden more minutes since he's clearly the team's second best playmaker, the team's best 3 PT shooter and is averaging an ABSURD 6.67 Assist-to-Turnover Ratio (I know, it's still early, that number will drop) but is doing so as a rookie?

David Thorpe

  (12:16 PM)

Great question. I wrote some things about his passing in this week's report. Thabo is a terrific defender, but Harden is a special talent.

Jonathan (CA)

Three straight wins for the kings, gotta be impressed considering everyone thought they were the worst of the worst. The difference a real head coach does wonders.

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

You are 100% right. They look like an NBA team now. Don't forget, they almost beat the Hornets on the road even though Martin couldn't hit a shot, and then they almost beat Atl despite a poor game from Evans. By late winter, if the bigs keep developing, they could be a very interesting team to watch. I'm really glad Donte Greene is coming around.

John (Nashville)

Bigger steal of the Draft Budinger or Blair?

David Thorpe

  (12:18 PM)

Too early to tell, but don't sleep on Roddy Buckets.

dirk nowitzki (dallas, tx)

am i the best european player ever? also, he may have more titles, but im better than pau, right?

David Thorpe

  (12:19 PM)

1. Dirk2. Pau

Stewart (phila. pa)

I know its real early, but is it to soon to say that Jrue Holiday is a PLAYER!

David Thorpe

  (12:19 PM)

Yes he is, the youngest in the league too. He's going to be very good in time.

Jay (Chicago)

Did the Bulls get screwed by the officials last night? Or was it the right call?

David Thorpe

  (12:20 PM)

I thought it was the right call once I saw the roof cam.

Mike (Detroit)

Who says no to this trade? Detroit gets - Elton Brand; Philly gets - Rip Hamilton and Jason Maxiel

David Thorpe

  (12:20 PM)

Detroit.

Bobby (La Crosse, WI)

Is Brandon Jennings the front runner for rookie of the year? If so, how will that impact the front office to get him some help?

Alex (MPLS)

David, how positive a sign is it that Flynn seems to be able to score efficiently in the NBA? He's struggling with running the new system, but he appears to have great potential as a scorer.

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

I don't know about "great" potential, but he's a scorer for sure. 12 days is not enough to make any permanent observations.

Dave (Phoenix)

Can Jared Dudley get a little national love? He's been amazing - and gives everything he's got every second he's on the court. Big reason the Suns are 7-1 right now.

David Thorpe

  (12:22 PM)

He could help all 30 teams.

Rih (New York)

Think the Knicks made a mistake for not drafting Jennings or do you think Tony Douglas and Hill will be players for them?

David Thorpe

  (12:23 PM)

I think they made a mistake.

EMP (Tor)

I just want to say how right you are about the Cavs needing a shooting big. Also a passer to run the break and throw some alley oops to Lebron would be nice. Also a decent backup 3 to allow him to scoot up and down based on matchups. All of which is to say, is Ferry overrated?

David Thorpe

  (12:23 PM)

I wasn't aware he was rated at all.

Jason (Madison)

There is a lot of talk about guards so far this year, like lawson, flynn, jennings, and evans, but these guys were all high picks and could have been expected to perform. What about Wes Matthews, who was undrafted and is already making an immediate impact with the Jazz? Do you see him cracking the starting line up at some point this year?

David Thorpe

  (12:24 PM)

Excellent point. I don't think he is a long term solution there, but he's done well.

Gabe (CA)

If Kevin Martin is so good, why did the kings suddenly start winning as soon as he was out?

David Thorpe

  (12:25 PM)

Evans has found his stride in Martin's absence, and Beno has too now that he's starting. They've played well in 5 straight.

Dave (OH)

How well do you think the Thunder will do this year?

David Thorpe

  (12:26 PM)

They looked awful last night, especially on defense. I think they will be tough at home, not so good on the road, but should be a playoff team by next year. This year is 50/50 for the 8th spot, at best.

carlos (Mexico)

any comments about the Grizzlies's rookies (Thabeet, Carroll, Young)?

David Thorpe

  (12:26 PM)

U---G---H

Jason (Seattle)

How much business do you have during the NBA and NCAA seasons? Is the gym still packed or are you just lounging around listening to La Boheme?

David Thorpe

  (12:28 PM)

I try to focus only on the games at this time of year, though I do get calls from players who are either recovering/hoping to join a new team and want to work out. I like staying out of the gym though, and just watching a lot of tape.

Bobby C (New York)

Toney Douglas dropping 21 on the Jazz at the Garden. Aberration or setting the bar?

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

Well I don't think he'll average 21 if that's what you mean. But he'll likely do that again.

Eric (Indy)

I keep hearing that Steven Jackson wants to be traded, hates playing for Nelson, yadayadayada..., and yet he is still playing! What's the deal with this situation?

David Thorpe

  (12:29 PM)

It's like Michael Scott is in charge there.

kobe (israel)

what do you think about omri casspi?

David Thorpe

  (12:30 PM)

I think he'll eventually be the starter there next to Martin and Evans. He's the shooter Evans needs on the other side of Martin, and he can pass and defend multiple positions.

Afrah (London)

Is Shaq still an all star?

David Thorpe

  (12:30 PM)

Not remotely.

warren (Ft. Lauderdale)

Wade, Lebron, Paul, Roy, Kobe, Melo, ETC. There all great, but its the great talents added to the fact that there energy guys too. Question is..... can Beasley be an energy guy?

David Thorpe

  (12:31 PM)

Not that I've seen so far.

Jerry (GA)

In 3 years will Jeff Teague be a top point guard?

David Thorpe

  (12:31 PM)

My guess is no, but he'll be a good pro. Wow is he quick off the bounce.

Jan (Krakow, Poland)

"NBA coach looking for an intern (short-term)". You'd be ready to apply? For whom?

David Thorpe

  (12:33 PM)

The job is yours. I have 10 more years to be home most of the time when my children are doing whatever it is they are doing at night (like our baseball game tonight-go Rays!). If the NBA played day games, I might think differently.

Josh (Seattle)

Do you have any thoughts on the Anthony Randolph - Don Nelson situation? Is Nelson wrong for playing Randolph so inconsistently, or is Randolph not doing the things he needs to do to earn more pt. Thanks

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

I'd like to see him play 30 minutes a game for a month straight, then answer that question.

Simon (Portugal)

You just got a +1 rep on my book for that Office answer!

David Thorpe

  (12:34 PM)

Thanks. I need a +1 rep.

timmy (NYC)

what is your over/under for Greg Oden's years in the league? i give him 3 more seasons...

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

I give him 13.

Gavin (Utah)

What do you think Utah's chances are of turning things around? They show great potential and hustle, but don't hold it together in the 4th, no different from any other year. With Korver and Miles coming back next month. Does Utah Have a chance to win the NW division?

David Thorpe

  (12:35 PM)

it seems very unlikely without a deal.

Harrison (Chicago)

If Noah keeps playing like this...is he a top 10 center in the NBA?

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

Name 5 that are better.

Bernard (Chicago)

The Bulls seem more committed on the defensive end this year and Rose seems at least mildly interested in playing D. I like waiting 20 games or so to make any real judgments but What have you seen thus far on that end?

David Thorpe

  (12:36 PM)

I agree totally. And I thought Deng was terrific on Melo last night.

James (New York, NY) [via mobile]

Do you think Tyrke Evans will get to the level of when Magic Johnson was playing?

David Thorpe

  (12:37 PM)

Um, well, actually, I'm leaning towards no.

Mike (Sacramento)

What are your thoughts on Evans so far? Is he better off without Martin?

David Thorpe

  (12:38 PM)

It certainly seems so, but I think it was more of the coaches telling him to just go play, kind of like what Calipari did last year. Why would Martin's outside shooting and relatively few shots per point total hurt Evans? They can be dynamic together.

Will (DC)

Why did the TWolves go through the trouble of signing Ramon Sessions just to be a backup? Was he brought in explicitly with the idea of having him mentor Flynn (I wouldn't imagine this, though, since Sessions is a pretty young player himself), or if Flynn just a better player?

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

I'm a bit confused myself.

Dan (SD)

which rookie which we haven't heart much of, will rise by the end of the year?

David Thorpe

  (12:39 PM)

Griffin, Blake.

Conrad (Montreal)

Whats your opinion of Derozan? He's been somewhat invisible alongside the other Raps starters, but could that be a good thing? He's been somewhat efficient as well.

David Thorpe

  (12:40 PM)

I saw that this summer, his ability to just settle in and make easy plays. They don't need him to step forward in a big way until the spring.

BENEDICT (Annecy, France)

Nooo. Sabonis is the best European ever. Blame the cold war, NBA didn't see him in his prime

David Thorpe

  (12:41 PM)

I agree, if we're talking about a global comparison, but in terms of what we saw while they were NBA players, case closed, as far as Euro's go. The Dream is still best international player.

David Thorpe

  (12:42 PM)

No front runners yet.

Adam (New York City)

What about Duncan?

David Thorpe

  (12:43 PM)

We need a ruling on his status. He'd rank behind Dream in my book now, but may overtake him soon.

David Thorpe

  (12:43 PM)

Bynum and Kaman and Biedrins? Please.

Lane (Kukuihaele, HI)

Will Al Jefferson put up double-doubles consistently this season once he gets the minutes back or do we have to wait for next season once he's completely healthy?

David Thorpe

  (12:44 PM)

Yes he will.

Jack (NYC)

Any thoughts on the Heat's 6-1 start?? Reason for optimism or fluke?

David Thorpe

  (12:45 PM)

I'm optimistic. I liked them a lot in early October.

Michelle (Park City, UT)

David, I think your write up on Wes Matthews is spot on, he DID play 5 mins. in their home opener versus Denver. Keep up the good detailed work!!

David Thorpe

  (12:46 PM)

Relax, I'm adding him and Jerebko later today-watching tape on them after this chat.

Michael (San Antonio)

But Timmy D is "international"... still taking The Dream?

David Thorpe

  (12:46 PM)

Today yes, but maybe not tomorrow.

Logan (NJ)

Do you think Jrue Holiday has the toughness to run a team in the future?

David Thorpe

  (12:47 PM)

yes.

Ben (NYC)

Jordan Hill - you said he'd be better now with floor spacing with guys that know what they're doing but why hasnt he seen time yet?

David Thorpe

  (12:48 PM)

I have no idea. It's a shame for him and them.

Greg (Los Angeles)

What do you think of the Hawks this season? Are they real contenders in the East?

David Thorpe

  (12:48 PM)

If Smith continues his intelligent play, yes they probably are, but as serious underdogs.

dan (SD)

So ESPN.com gets us all to be THorpe fans, then makes his rankings an insider ONLY. DAN is getting frustrated.

David Thorpe

  (12:49 PM)

Sorry Dan.

omri (NYC)

who do you think will be better by the end of their careers, Derrick Rose or Tyreke Evans

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

Lean to Rose, but it's close either way. I can see an argument for Evans for sure.

gabe (New rochelle)

what happens if the Cavs dont even make the playoffs? Lebron to NJ?

David Thorpe

  (12:50 PM)

The Cavs are making the playoffs, so stop.

Brad (NM)

Was Boston smart giving Rondo all that money and making him the future? Can he be as good as he is without KG, PP, and RA?

David Thorpe

  (12:51 PM)

No pg can be at their best without help, but I'm sure the Celts will fill those spots.

Enrique (Chicago)

Hey David, question, what's Dwade's real age. What i mean by this is, the way he keeps carrying the Heat completely on his back and taking the bruises and bumps of playing so minutes, seems like he's older than he really is at this point. He's 28 but his motor is probably at 30. Can he continue at this pace or do you think he'd better of staying in Miami only if they get another big scorer with him or else he'll end up burning out.

G (NYC)

I have no idea what's going on in this chat. You're answering questions that aren't posted. Also some of your answers are being posted under the wrong questions.

David Thorpe

  (12:52 PM)

Click refresh on your computer.

Sable (Hesperia, CA)

How much NBA game tape do you have at your beck and call? It must be nice.

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

By midnight I have basically every second of every game, thanks to Synergy. It's nice.

Will (SJ, CA)

I'm a software developer in Silicon Valley, I'll fix your chat!

David Thorpe

  (12:53 PM)

Thanks!

Ben (NYC)

Way back when you said that Speights was the closest thing you've seen to amare. do you still think that?

David Thorpe

  (12:54 PM)

Pretty much. What about you?

Brian (CA)

What do you think of all of these advanced statistics? Using Hollinger's PER, Kobe would not be considered a top 5 player in the league.

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

I look at all of them.

Matthew (NYC)

This chat setup has been busted for weeks. What was this answer: " Bynum and Kaman and Biedrins? Please." in response to?

David Thorpe

  (12:55 PM)

Centers better than Noah.

Matt (Indy)

Thorpe, how many questions do you typically have to dodge each chat? Just curious if you get overloaded or if you are able to answer most of them.

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

Yours was question #715. I'll get about a thousand or so most weeks.

Ben (NYC)

3 point contest - who wins - Bargnani vs Gallinari?

David Thorpe

  (12:56 PM)

Bargs, in OT.

Mike (Chicago)

Parenting advice please. I have tried not be a Marinovich like parent, but have a six year old who excels at soccer, leading scorer in a league of kids that are two years older than him. He is being recruited to join some academy and is begging to do it. We said no and are having him try hoops this winter and probably baseball in the spring for a well rounded experience and a chance to not be the best. I've read your thoughts on just focusing on fun, team play, etc., but what do you do when the kid sincerely seems to want something more competitive. I respect your advice on this issue. Thanks.

David Thorpe

  (12:57 PM)

I think you are doing great. Don't let him specialize yet, but do allow him to play some soccer when he wants to. When he's 8, you can take it up a notch.

Morty (Del Boca Vista)

Getting back to Casspi....what current player would you compare him to and what kind of numbers can he put up when he reaches his peak?

David Thorpe

  (12:59 PM)

He can be an energetic Turkoglu. He's very tall and fluid, with a terrific shooting stroke and excellent passing skills. Needs a few years of work on his handle. He can be a 17, 8, and 5 guy with ease.

MC Welk (SLC)

Hey rookie lovers, watch Eric Maynor tonight. He's starting as DWill and Price got Knicked up.

David Thorpe

  (1:00 PM)

Thanks for the heads up.

Ted (New York)

How much money is lost in productivity due to your chats?

David Thorpe

  (1:00 PM)

You are assuming that my readers have productive jobs...

Robert (RI)

Wait, this guy's saying Bynum, whose averaging 20ppg/10.6rpg/2.2apg and 1.2bpg and is a legit low post presence and defensive anchor, is NOT a better center than Noah, whose averageing 12/11? And Kaman whose averaging 23ppg & 9.7rpg is not a better center than Noah, when both of those guys are true low post presences? Thorpe needs to take his Noah homer glasses off. Seriously. The Bulls would trade Noah for either of those players in a heartbeat.

David Thorpe

  (1:01 PM)

Bynum is a fair argument, Kaman not so much. No way the Bulls make that deal with the Clips.

David Thorpe

  (1:02 PM)

Time's up. Thanks everyone. See you all next week. Be safe.