VOTE FOR GILBERT!

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http://www.truthaboutit.net/2007/11/vote-for-gilbert-campaign-2007-weblog.html

Fluid buildup is common after surgeries. I've had multiple so I'm familiar. EJ needs to limit his minutes for the next month or so because he shouldn;t have to keepdoing this. Let the knee heal, EJ !!

Since Gilby complained that the VC is cold, and since he has had issues with his knee, maybe he can wear his fur coat and wrap a piece of fur around his knee while sitting on the bench. That's good for some PR, maybe not good PR, but any PR really is good PR.

http://blog.washingtonpost.com/dcsportsbog/2007/11/wiz_rookies_wear_fur.html

"Young guys are going to make mistakes, and that's just the nature of the business," Jordan said.

Here is the problem right here. If you keep thinking like that, you are going to find yourself unemployed.

I have been out of town so I have been catching up on some of the past comments made by everyone. Mark you hit the nail right on the head. Small-ball, if played, should not have AJ and Songalia in at the same time. Talk about SLOW. Duhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh????

EJ, you have to be kidding me on this lineup. You have DMac and AB there to use and you refuse to use them. So what if they make mistakes. They will also turn right around and make a spectacular
play on the next possession to offset it. Come on baby, cut them some dang on slack...!!

EJ gets to hung up in the "Veterans" thing. EJ has to realize his job is on the line. Even if the Wiz would continue to lose, everyone would not be calling for his head so much if they saw him at least trying to be a little creative with his bench calls.

Come on Eddie, I am pulling for you bro; You have the skills, stop being so "pig-headed" and change your ways some. Case in point, you changed your stance on Haywood, and look at the results.

Take the "handcuff's" off of the youngin's and give them a "run"....!!! Mistakes or no mistakes. What do you have to lose, "other than your job"........???? This goes out to Joe Gibbs too (J. Cambell), but Joe won't lose his job so he can continue to be "pig-headed"......

Good... All we need now is EJ to monitor is court time, and everything else should work out. Hey Ivan, if you get a chance, ask Eddie "why is he playing Gil so much knowing that his knee might respond this way."

gil isn't going to rest himself so ej is going to have to force gil to rest, which should do wonders for their relationship (if ej does it).

resting gilbert is also not in alignment with ej's short term goal of keeping his job, so ej is in a really bad spot here.

i wonder if gil will ever get his fair share of the blame for the apparent problems with ej...

Ivan,

How much, if any, do you think Abe Pollin's pathological cheapness has, and will continue to, hurt this team? With the loss of Etan Thomas and Oleksiy Pecherov, this team is already thin. But the team is made even thinner thanks to the owner's inexplicable refusal to go over the salary cap and pay the luxury tax, which has led to an incomplete roster of only 12 guys (plus Thomas) out of a possible 15 the league allows.

I know Pollin is a great philanthropist and is generous when it comes to helping the needy. But how about extending some of that grand generousity to his own team? He made a killing off the MJ years in Washington, and it's time for him to invest some of that back into the roster.

Can you imagine if Dan Snyder decided the Redskins would rather not pay for a 53 team roster and instead instructed Joe Gibbs to make do with only 45 guys?

There are a lot of players out there who can help this team who'd be willing to sign for the league minimum, so in terms of luxury tax we aren't necessarily talking millions of more dollars here. How many other teams in the NBA have elected to go with an incomplete roster in order to avoid the tax? Are there even any?

Ivan, don't tell us that you're not going to dodge the tough questions in your online Q and A if that is exactly what you are going to do. I spent the time writing a legitimate and appropriately worded question about why you never mention any failings by Eddie Jordan, but of course you dodged it. Really weak.

Hey Pollin's Cheapness. Perhaps before you criticize someone, you get the facts straight.

Actually Anonymous, Pollin's Cheapness is correct. The NBA doesn't have a hard cap. The only thing keeping the team from having a full compliment of 15 players including one to replace Thomas is Pollin's willingness to spend money.

Somebody is always better than nobody if all somebody will cost is money. And that's the case with the Wizards' today.

I have said since the opening day roster was set that not having 15 players come back and bite us. When all it costs is money, it's nonsensical to not have a full roster.

Not to be picky, but what does "the second time since Oct 17 that the knee has been drained" mean? Does that mean it was drained on the 17th, then two times since, making it three times? Or does it mean it was drained on the 17th plus this time? Or that it was drained two times since the 17th, and the 17th was the start of the season or something making it an important date?

Paul,

That's a real cavalier attitude to have, when (A) the money on question could run into the millions of dollars for a player who will likely never take off his warm ups and (B) it isn't your money.

I agree 100% with Bullets Fever. EJ needs to play the young ones. The reason why we didn't get JCN is because we already have NY, so why not play Nick. I know a lot of bloggers here dislike Jarvis but he was our 3 point shooter and now its Mason. Is Mason better than Jarvis?

I just think we have too much young players and EJ don't trust them so that leaves with too much PT for the veterans.

"Can you imagine if Dan Snyder decided the Redskins would rather not pay for a 53 team roster and instead instructed Joe Gibbs to make do with only 45 guys?"

You do realize that using Snyder as a model for how a team should spend money hurts your argument more than helps it?

How can people be complaining about bench players not getting enough minutes and about Pollin not signing another player on the same blog?
Who should the Wizards sign, and whose minutes will be cut to give minutes to this new player?

"You do realize that using Snyder as a model for how a team should spend money hurts your argument more than helps it?

Posted by: kalorama | November 7, 2007 03:33 PM "

Dan Snyder's fault lies in his unwillingness to hire a GM to run his team, not in how he is open to spending money. If Pollin is willing to spend above to help this shorthanded team, I'm sure EG would do it wisely.

EJ was quoted last year on how he used to muse about all the free agents that are possibilities on this team, until he woke up and realized and admitted that he knows this team is on a tight budget, not because the deals are not doable.

That's very telling coming from a head coach, and should shut everyone up who argues that this team is not cheap.

"Who should the Wizards sign, and whose minutes will be cut to give minutes to this new player?"

That's not even the question. It it was, then it might be worth worrying about. As it is, there's no one out there (who the Wiz would actually have a legit chance at signing) who'd be good enough to take minutes from anyone who's already in the rotation. So they'd be going over the luxury tax threshold just to sign a practice player.

"EJ was quoted last year on how he used to muse about all the free agents that are possibilities on this team, until he woke up and realized and admitted that he knows this team is on a tight budget, not because the deals are not doable."

And, of course, you can provide a link to the article containing this quote?

It was my question, Kalorama, so stick your attitude. My point, which apparently you agree with but you are too stupid to realize it, is that there is no free agent available that people would like to see signed and who would then take minutes away from players who people want to see get more minutes.

Joe. I am on the first part of your statement about the bench and not the extra player needed on the pine. I did say something Pollin not signing a "extra guy" a couple of weeks ago.

I said the statement, but I must admit Kalorama made a good point about what's the use if he is not going to get in anyway.

As for my arguement about the bench, until the "big three" start hitting as we all know they can, EJ has to learn how to adjust and infuse some of the "rook" talent to shake things up at certain parts of the game.

Nobody here is aking for EJ to play them in the last 5 to 7 minutes of the game, but to just let them get some run in the 2nd quarter and the the top of the 4th. It can be managed, trust me. However that is only if EJ trys it.

Lastly, I am so tired of Ivan and Mike saying when AB came into the Boston game Paul Pierce quickly hit 8 points and that forced Eddie to take AB out. That is a bunch of crap. AB was not checking him on all of those possessions. That was just another ready made excuse Eddie used to justify "yanking AB".

Trust me, I have seen this treatment before numerous times with EJ. The style and technique is the same but the star of the EJ's new 2007 mind-game show is now AB and not Haywood. Haywood stared in the original 2005 version and reprised his role in the 2006 before giving way to AB this year.

Watch yourself young fella (AB), because enough of these instances you will be due for a meltdown on the bench during a game or at practice. Then you will get all the folks jumping on you about being immature and unprofessional. They will question why you look shakey in games "when you do finally get some minutes".

EJ will then use your shakeness against you and say you are not showing enough "energy" for him. Duhhhh? Wonder why???? Watch yourself young fella. Stay the course. You will finally get your chance (fair minutes) like someone else on your team finally did and you will flourish just like he is doing now. Hang in there.........

the wiz need a shooter. that would put the wiz over the top with Gil in or out. Is there not a 6'8'' three-pointer shooter out there?

Hey Joe:

Wow, you're quite the f***ing a**hole, aren't you?

As you pointed out (but then proceeded to ignore in favor of your completely uncalled for and unprovoked tirade of insults because, presumably, you're just that stupid or just that much of a dick) I was, in fact, agreeing with your point (quite knowingly and intentionally) and adding another interpretation of why it was valid. There was no "attitude" in my response. The only attitude came from the big wad of it you apparently keep lodged tightly in your sphincter.

Jackass.

"To make that work, Andray has to go in and produce. In 28 total minutes so far, he's 2 of 6 from the field with three rebounds and two blocks. My guess is that his production will increase with more minutes because he did have a strong preseason. We'll see". Ivan Carter

Ivan - See this is what I am talking about. Please tell me how can the man PRODUCE when he does not get ANY MINUTES???????? Are you there watching the games?? When will he get those minutes and why isn't he getting them? Ivan, did you ask EJ that question? AB's minutes has nothing to do with Haywood playing more. I know you are not falling for that one, are you?

AB is a "4" trying to play the "5" (sound like someone else we know, get well soon ET) so all of his minutes should be coming from AJ's remaining minutes anyway. I am not on the trade AJ bandwagon. I love his game and what he brings. But he is 31 years old playing the whole 1st and 2nd quarter's of games.

Ivan did you ask EJ about why he is riding AJ so hard at his age? This dude is going to breakdown by January because of EJ's failure to trust AB.

I am with Sean on his earlier post, you said you were going to answer the tough questions, but you failed to post one of my questions too. I know it might not appear like I want EJ fired, but I don't because I am a EJ supporter. However, EJ needs to improve on how he uses his "folk" throughout games.

Can we get back to basketball please?

After Gil gets a needle stuck in there a couple of times he'll be a little more willing to monitor the minutes and won't be fighting sitting down.

It hurts like hell! They have to use a large gauge needle(12 to 16 ga) cause the stuff's thick that they draw out. The heavy minutes in these first three games has definetly set him back.

If Eddie isn't using the bench he has, how would adding two more players to the end of it help the Wizards?

Is Jordan really on this short of a leash? He's overplayed his star player when it's apparent to almost everyone that he's still trying to get fully healthy.

That makes no sense to the Wizard's longterm interests to setback the recovery time of Arenas. He's got to get healthy for this team to really go anywhere. But while he's not at 100% strength develop the bench and learn to balance the scoring more.

They've got to try and keep Gil fresh for the stretch run of games and let him pick his spots a little more. The good news is he's just suffering from over use before the knee's fully healed. If they back off a little it should really be ok in the long run.

Bullets Fever:
You are right that Blatche is this year's resident of Jordan's Big Man doghouse. Hopefully Haywood outfitted that pad with a nice big screen t.v. so that Blatche can chill in comfort. And you are also right that if Blatche gets put in and doesn't produce in the first couple minutes, EJ will be prone to yank him and criticize his effort. Remember when Jordan pulled Haywood after 30 seconds of the second half in a game last year?

One big difference I notice about Haywood this year is that he has several times received the ball in the post or gathered in an offensive rebound, made a few moves that didn't get him open for a shot, and instead of hoisting a bad shot, he passed the ball out to the perimeter or looked for cutters. He NEVER did that in the past. In a Hoopsworld interview, Haywood said,

"Whereas before I felt like I had to get things going right away or someone else might be playing, this year I know I'm going to be given a chance to play through mistakes. I just want to make sure I limit those mistakes."

In other words, last season when he got the ball in the post, he thought (correctly, in my view) that he would have to shoot even a bad shot in order to have a chance to make an impact, because if he didn't have an impact, he'd get yanked. This year, he doesn't feel that pressure and he feels more comfortable just making the right play.

Sorry, Kalorama. Your constant arrogant, know-it-all writing style just makes it difficult to understand whether you are belitting someone or agreeing with them. It's just so hard to tell sometimes.

"Whereas before I felt like I had to get things going right away or someone else might be playing, this year I know I'm going to be given a chance to play through mistakes. I just want to make sure I limit those mistakes."

That really doesn't track. If, in the past, he knew he was going to get pulled immediately if he made a mistake, wouldn't that be an incentive for him to stop making those mistakes? But he kept making them over and over. And now that Jordan has no choice but to give him a longer leash regardless of the mistakes, he's stopped making them.

To me this is a pretty good indication that he was previously more worried about what was best for him (trying to pad his stats by getting shots up) rather than what was best for the tea (getting the ball to the guys who should be shooting it). It appears that's changed for whatever reason. Good for him. But it really shouldn't have taken this long.

Hey Joe,

Yet it's not at all hard to tell that you're a dick. Thanks for making it so easy on everyone.

I'm done with you.

Abe is not cheap. The Wizards right up against the luxury tax threshold. Exceeding that threshold causes both a dollar for dollar tax on any amount over the threshold AND causes the team to forfeit its share of the luxury tax payout. Signing a minimum salary player to fill out a roster spot would end up costing the Wizards roughly $3 million. That would be stupid.

A much more important question -- what are the possible side effects of Gil repeatedly having his knee drained?

I don't think there are any actual side effects to having the knee drained. But if there develops a constant need for it, that would likely be indicative of a some kind of significant post-surgical complication.

Hey Joe! Man, You just saying a word. Kalorama is exactly what you wrote! I eased up wrting on here cuz of his nasty Arrogant, sarcastic,highly critical, know-it-all attitude. One would think Kalorama had either coached, played or owned a team with the cocky arrogance he throws answers..

I don't stoop to kalorama's ignorance. Apparently, he not only lacks, brains, manners & class he's must o' checked he was missin his ba-ls. His wife must beat him - so he takes his abuse out here.

This should stick to basketball but he thinks he's our teacher & needs to "edit" our comments..whewwww maybe the brothers kinda flamin-talkin about male anatomy & all. HMMMMMMM
How come Mr. DC can't use the words "teacher Kalorama uses?"

I think everytime we use the word "ball" it must excite him...yep thats it.

We can't let our frustrations with EJ and the team's lousy play make us turn against each other - we're all we've got!!

And if we are gonna turn against each other, let's just make sure that it's DC Man88 that we turn against.

You all need to shut up and start talking basketball instead of throwing out personal attacks. Everyone who reads this blog knows some basketball so its pointless to try to make it seem as if one of us knows more than the other.

RobP,

Given the cavalcade of poorly worded and ill-conceived ignorance in the post where you make such a show of patting yourself on the back and beating yourself off about how above it all you are, I can only assume you don't comprehend the definitions to either the words "irony" or "hypocrisy" (along with, I'm sure, thousands of others).

Top 10 jerks on this site:

1. DCMan 88
2. Joe

Man, can't people give an opinion without getting jumped on?

Abe Pollin is no cheapskate. The man builds a stadium with private money, helps transform a historic neighborhood, brings up the revenue base for the District, donates loads of money to local charities -- and people on this site are trashing him as a cheapskate, just because he doesn't want to pay $3m for a 13th man? The Wiz aren't even using their 8th man right now.

There are, what, five teams over the luxury threshhold: Boston, Minnesota, LAL, NY and Dallas. The first four of those are no paragons of well-managed payrolls or rosters. The fifth is owned by an egotistical billionaire. Every other team stays under the limit. How does that make Abe cheap? So what if Eddie fantasizes about all the free agency deals out there?

I don't agree with DCMan much, but props to him for ignoring some of the hating that's coming at him from anonymous posters. I wish everyone else could do the same.

Strangely enough, it was mentioned during the Knicks game last night that Isaiah is sticking with an 8 man rotation...so why did they go over the luxury tax?

Prazak, you are oh so wrong about DCMoron. He may have not responded too much today but he has said PLENTY in the past - and his INSANE (seriously) vicious comments makes Kalorama look like Sweet Jesus.

i liked your post, gm. you beat me to saying this:

"If Eddie isn't using the bench he has, how would adding two more players to the end of it help the Wizards?"

i see no reason to criticize pollin for sticking with less than 15 guys (although i feel badly for mike hall).

and as for this:

"But while he's not at 100% strength develop the bench and learn to balance the scoring more"

i'll add that during this time i'd like to see gilbert improve his floor game and learn how to get his teammates and himself going without constantly relying on attacking the rim with his explosiveness and off the dribble shooting. i hope he gets that part of his game back, but i hope that during this part of his career he learns how to employ it more wisely.

in the long run i think that'll make the wiz a better team.

Well, I guess I'll have to settle for #2, because no one will ever knock off #1 (unless Kobe starts posting on this blog, that is -- sorry to dis your man, Michael Lee).

I think it's cold in Verizon Center, too. All those combo hockey-basketball arenas are colder than a mofo, because the court is on top of ice. If we could only abolish the NHL, I think the level of play in the NBA would rise considerably.

I can really symphathize with Gil. I've never had my knee drained, but I had old-fashioned pre-arithoscopic knee surgery when I played in high school, and I remember that it took a year to get back to where I could touch the rim, or change directions laterally without wincing. For months,it seemed like every time I started to make progress, I'd tweak it and it would stiffen up. Behind all his bravado, I'm sure he's really struggling not to get frustrated and lose his confidence. I'm just hoping that his recovery is a lot quicker than mine was. Of course, he's got excellent doctors and trainers to give him electrical stim and other therapy, none of which existed back in the 1970s.

Wrong, Kalorama. Remember how Haywood got totally destroyed for putting up zeros on the stat line in 8 minutes in one playoff game last year and pulled by EJ in that game and benched for the next game for being ineffective? That sort of thing, occurring repeatedly, could lead a guy to think (not saying this is the right way to think, but it sure seems Haywood came to believe this) that when he got into a game, he had to make an impact, and not just make good fundamental plays like passing the ball out of the post to a open man.
Plus, no player can go out on the floor and not make mistakes. Too many decisions, too many variables. No one in the league shoots 100%, no one has 0 turnovers, no one stops all the guys he guards all season from scoring. If a guy is too worried about getting yanked if he makes a mistake, he can't do much at all. I'm sure a lot of you can think back to your playing days and recall coaches who had you on such a short leash you couldn't breathe.

No fair!!!

Top 10 jerks on this site:

1. DCMan 88
2. DC Man88
3. DC Man88
4. DC Man88
5. DC Man88

"I'M DA NUMBER 1, 2, 3, 4, AND 5..." - KRS1

"I think it's cold in Verizon Center, too. All those combo hockey-basketball arenas are colder than a mofo, because the court is on top of ice. If we could only abolish the NHL, I think the level of play in the NBA would rise considerably.

Posted by: John Brisker | November 7, 2007 06:19 PM "

Sure, it's cold in VC if you're not getting PT and instead, riding the pine like AB and the rooks, but if you're Gilby, running 40 min/game, then what? Maybe Gilby should stay warmed up by riding a stationary bike like how Tracey Murray used to do.

A lot of the NBA arenas have ice rinks underneath too. If they don't keep the temp low in VC, then they'll get condensation on the cold court, and Gilby will blow out his other knee when he slips.

"Man, can't people give an opinion without getting jumped on?

Abe Pollin is no cheapskate. The man builds a stadium with private money, helps transform a historic neighborhood, brings up the revenue base for the District, donates loads of money to local charities -- and people on this site are trashing him as a cheapskate, just because he doesn't want to pay $3m for a 13th man? The Wiz aren't even using their 8th man right now.

Posted by: Prazak | November 7, 2007 05:44 PM "

Dishonest Abe deserves credit for how he's helped turn chinatown around, but with regard to the team, he's clearly cut corners. MJ made many changes when he came aboard, including booking nicer hotels, better travel arrangements, etc. How are you going to attract the to free agents if you're booking them at the Motel 69?

Even Gilby remarked last season how's he jealous of other teams with all they have. And then you have EJ calling out management/ownership by saying he knows Les BouleS are on a tight budget.

And of course, we all remember how Abe tried to dictate the market by lowballing Juwan, and reneging on his promise to give Rex Chapman an extension. Abe used Nash to do his dirty work.

------------------------------------------

"I asked Arenas last month what he thought the Wizards had to do to appease his wishes. He wouldn't campaign for the Wizards to acquire certain players, but he did say, "If you want a championship, you got to get a championship team."

He added: "I know this might not sound right, but the championship teams treat themselves like champions. You go into Miami's locker room, I'm like, 'Wow, what the hell is this?' Everything from their game-day meals for their players to every state-of-the-art thing you can imagine. As a player, why would you want to leave the locker room? I could sit there all day.

"We've been doing a better job, but it comes down to this: You treat your players like champions, they want to be champions," he added. "All the best teams in the league treat themselves first-class every day. Other players come over and think, 'They got this, they got that. Oh, I want to be here.' "

Whether Arenas was telling Abe Pollin and Ernie Grunfeld to upgrade the Wizards' facilities is up for debate. But he was clearly illustrating how the defending champions take care of their players. How the Wizards interpret Arenas's words gets to the issue of how much leverage stars have in this league."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/04/24/AR2007042402488.html

Kalorama, you're welcome:

"On a larger scale, Jordan wants to win now. Like any coach who signed a two-year extension with a team option for the third year last summer, the continuity line gets old.

"But I understand Mr. Pollin's standpoint," Jordan said. "We want to stay within a certain budget for the Washington Wizards. We're not going to be like four or five or six other teams that can do anything it takes to win. Those are decisions we made within the organization. It doesn't bother me. There are times when you say, 'How come we can't get this guy?' But then you say, 'These are the parameters the organization has set.' ""

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/02/16/AR2007021602210.html

So, to some of the more knowledgeable members of the board, how many minutes (if any) a game do you think Gilbert should be getting right now since he is obviously still recovering from his knee injury?

Anyone who's ever had any dealings with Pollin knows he's cheap and always has been. I've had several friends who have done business with him over the years, and they never claimed he was over-generous. I never liked MJ here, but even his worst enemy couldn't pretend he was treated fairly at the end. Or even respectfully. As for Pollin's deal with Leonsis--it was pretty one-sided, and Leonsis can only hope he ends up with what he was promised someday. Pollin's rep doesn't make that a sure bet.

On the plus side, he hasn't moved the team away from DC (even though he willfully changed their name), nor has he sold them to some bickering investment group like in Atlanta or put his children in charge like in NY. However, Arenas' complaints about the way players are treated (and they get luxury treatment now compared to the Cap Center days) are valid. And that's yet one more reason why Grunfeld's hands are tied attracting a marquee trade or any free agents or waived players that would help the team even if he wasn't at the Lux Tax limit. Basically, they'd all be like Thibodeaux--they'd get a whiff of how dysfunctional things are and how much EH would play them, and they'd be out of here.

Since not too many NBA teams are willing to go over the luxury tax, and the Wiz are right at the lux tax limit, I don't really see what the rub is.

I agree that it's time to stop belittling other people's comments. Pradamaster had facts to back up his argument when he disagreed with me and I respect that. This is a discussion forum. Everyone's opinion (ABOUT THE WIZ) is valid. Kal has called me ignorant, too and I took offense. GilCrush has offended everyone here. As long as none of us are employed by a professional sports team, no one here is any more knowledgeable than anyone else. Personally, I like people disagreeing with me. It gives us more to discuss and think about. WHy does it ever have to be personal?

You guys are right about EJ's mind games. I was one of the guys who was happy when I found out that Etan would not play this year (but was ok). I got called out for saying that it would free BTH up to do his thing on this blog. Haywood has responded with the additional responsibility thus far. Then, EJ called out Deshawn when he realized BTH was no longer available for 'motivation thru harassment'. Now it appears he's onto AB. He really needs to try a different tactic.
Pradamaster,
In regard to my mentioning that the Wiz need an identity, I still think we're kinda stuck trying to play defense with guys that can't do it. At least the SUNS have a couple guys who score AND play can play solid D like Barbosa, Marion, Raja Bell. We have NO defensive-minded players on our team who can score. I'm talking about perimeter players because I believe our C is solid on D. Our best players can all score points but can't stop anyone. I watched all 3 games and it's not like Gil was not trying to play. He fought around screens and tried to man up a lot. There aren't many people who can keep up with Rondo, Nelson, and Tinsley. Those are 3 of the quickest PG in the league and we should expect him to struggle defensively. That's where good coaching should come in, I think. We may regret not keeping a small quick PG on our roster, too. I really don't believe our struggles so far are for a lack of effort. I believe that (here goes another of my analogies) we're asking Payton Manning to run the ball or Adrian Peterson to play QB. It's not what they do. Defense is not what GA, CB, and AJ do.
Prada, all of those championship caliber teams that I mentioned earlier have at least one starters who is very good defensively. Haslem, Rasheed, Billups, Ginobili, Bowen, etc. We have one starter who is average and that's DS. The rest are below average. What's the solution? Outscore people like we did from Nov-Jan. That's my solution. I hope EJ's plan works, though.

"Since not too many NBA teams are willing to go over the luxury tax, and the Wiz are right at the lux tax limit, I don't really see what the rub is.

Posted by: | November 7, 2007 07:57 PM "

The "rub" is that Les BouleS are shorthanded by 2 big men. ET would either be starting or the 2nd big man off the bench, while OPech would be the 3rd guy at the 5, or maybe the second guy if ET comes in at the 4. These two dudes aren't player 14 and 15.

EG can't do anything to shore up the paint b/c Abe isn't willing to spend any money over the cap.

"put his children in charge like in NY.

Posted by: KTV | November 7, 2007 07:27 PM "

Abe's offspring, 2 dudes, have made it clear they have no interest in inheriting the team, so that's why he was forced to sell. His two sons aren't even in the business. One is some sort of professor, while the other may be a writer.

"So, to some of the more knowledgeable members of the board, how many minutes (if any) a game do you think Gilbert should be getting right now since he is obviously still recovering from his knee injury?

Posted by: | November 7, 2007 07:14 PM "

None.

He should sit out until he's fully healthy. He won't get there by continuing to play. I would have him sit until after the all star break. Let the dude rest, and then let Gilby carry Les Boules in the 2nd half of the season.

This brings to question Gilby's workout during the offseason. Reports had him biking all over town without a helmet, and doing sprints with a parachute on his back. He was probably better off doing light strengthening exercises, cardio, swimming, and resting his knee for the season.

If Gil's knees are that bad he should play no more than 24-28 minutes per game and less in back to back situations. I think as a norm he, CAron and Jamison should be playing 33-36 minutes per game maximum. EJ needs to use the bench. Needs to develop the young talented players who are his better defensive players anyway. I am sure EG would understand sacrificing a few more early season losses to get these Blatche, Young and DMac better adjusted to the NBA game.

And as we have been saying he also needs to get more playing time for AJ.

Free agents:
Anderson Varejao, Earl Boykins, DJ Mbenga, PJ Brown, Chris Webber, Dale Davis. Keith McLeod, Luke Jackson. Vitaly Potapenko, Gary Payton, Justin Reed, Dahntay Jones, John Lucas III, Rafael Araujo, Jackie Butler. Since we gave away Larry Hughes, Chucky Atkins, and Juan Dixon for nothing, and JCN for next to nothing we have badly needed firepower off the bench. If the big three aren't on we are in trouble. The difference, if you have to start Juan Dixon he may get 30. If you start Mason at best he may get 9. I've been a Bullet's fan since 1961, and Pollin is cheap. Someone once said on the radio that he squeezed a nickel so hard the buffalo screamed.

Didn't The Glove retire? Or has he opted to play one more year?

The good news: the Heat can't win a game, and Wade's body is more gimpy than Arenas. Might as well rest Gil for as long as it takes. This division will be up for grabs all season.

The Wizards did not "give away" Hughes or Dixon, they left as FAs. Chucky Atkins was released because (A) he didn't want to be here and (B) because he was playing like crap. They tried to trade him. No one wanted him.

"EG can't do anything to shore up the paint b/c Abe isn't willing to spend any money over the cap."

(A) They don't have any money to spend and (B) there's no one out there for them to spend money on.

We didn't pick up the option on Dixon. hence he became a free agent. I'm not convinced we couldn't have done better with Hughes. We had an opportunity this offseason to upgrade the 2 guard and didn't. We could have picked up some firepower for the bench too.

"(A) They don't have any money to spend and (B) there's no one out there for them to spend money on.

Posted by: kalorama | November 7, 2007 11:21 PM "

The last I checked, we haven't reached the trade deadline yet. Any of the bodies on Les BouleS can be traded by EG for more bodies. For example, I'm sure AJ can be traded for at least 2 more bodies.

As I mentioned earlier this year, Atlanta is probably looking for some veteran leadership with all the young guns they have. I would say no one is untouchable on Les BouleS except maybe Tough Juice, because TJ is the MVP on this team.

Even with Tough Juice, let's get a perspective. No one really is untouchable on this team due to he fact that this is a perennial one and done playoff team.

Etan is out for the year, and OPech is just a rookie. Les BouleS are going to need a lot of help to get past some of the teams in the east who have gotten much better.

I loved Larry Hughes when he was here and was sorry to see him go, but I would add to Kalorama's point that had Ernie signed Larry to the money Cleveland paid he wouldn't be in a position to resign Gilbert and AJ next year. We'd be as hamstrung as the Cavs are right now with a big expensive contract and a perennially injured player. He's down again already this year and may never again have the kind of seasons he did here.

There's no reason Pollin can't go over the luxury limit one year. How much does he get if we go a couple rounds further in the playoffs. I would think it makes up for the 3 million mentioned above. I'd take a chance on Boykins who is out there, maybe Butler. Why couldn't we trade a couple 2nd rounders.

"I loved Larry Hughes when he was here and was sorry to see him go, but I would add to Kalorama's point that had Ernie signed Larry to the money Cleveland paid he wouldn't be in a position to resign Gilbert and AJ next year. We'd be as hamstrung as the Cavs are right now with a big expensive contract and a perennially injured player. He's down again already this year and may never again have the kind of seasons he did here.

Posted by: Prazak | November 7, 2007 11:43 PM

There's no guarantee that Les BouleS will resign AJ, or Gilby for that matter. Also, both Gilby and AJ have shot poorly the first 3 games, and even when AJ was scoring, it wasn't enough to carry the team to victory. Same as last season's playoffs, so Les BouleS and those two players aren't in any better position than LH.

"The last I checked, we haven't reached the trade deadline yet. "

"The last I checked, we haven't reached the trade deadline yet. "

You've been calling Pollin cheap for weeks now, pissing and complaining about how he won't spend money to sign someone. Yet, as soon as it's pointed out to you they don't have any money, you change direction and start talking about trades.

Nice try, but no one is buying.

Just checkin in.

Just finished watching Cavs v. Jazz/Spurs v. Heat/Celtics/Hawks injure my team -the Suns. In reality - Wiz aren't alone in their struggles..Heat are 0-4 and my beloved Suns(w/out Amare)lost & are struggling to get their rhythm as well. Wiz HAVE to get a clear understanding - they need each other & MUST function as a team. The lone assassin thing shouldn't show up to the last few seconds of the game - otherwise..balanced ball distribution steals, assists, shot blocking, rebounding and outmaneuvering your opponent. They can do it.

So, from where I sit - we shouldn't have our "knickers in a knot" (don't panic @ least not yet!!) This is the "pre-trial"
Soon we pick a jury & head to court -then we hear the verdict..but for now..lets use some patience & wisdom and watch them get themselves together. In the meantime..enjoy some good basketball.

still love Phoenix(even while they struggle)but celebrating w/the Senior League - Pierce, Garnett & Allen. Good games tonite. Enjoy everyone.

Mark, certainly, I think they're trying. The problem with your earlier thoughts was it seemed like you were saying they should stop.

It'll take time. Like you said, it's about coaching.

If GA doesn't play tonight, my guess is that we'll lose and it will be because we don't score enough points. ..and EJ won't use the bench again. Without GA, Nets. 84-76. With GA, Wiz 97-92.

In cas you all haven't heard, Larry Hughes is hurt. Yet again.

"You've been calling Pollin cheap for weeks now, pissing and complaining about how he won't spend money to sign someone. Yet, as soon as it's pointed out to you they don't have any money, you change direction and start talking about trades.

Nice try, but no one is buying.

Posted by: kalorama | November 8, 2007 01:29 AM "

Dude, whether it's a trade or picking up a free agent, either is a possibility. If he wants to pick up a free agent, CWebb is available. He's old, but is at least a good passer and can do some things.

Bottom line is if EG is given the green light, he can trade AJ and get some value for him, even if that value has a contract that increases beyond the salary cap in the coming years.

Wow, we know who's got the real big 3 now:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/recap?gameId=271107002

I'd like to see EJ sit him tonight and save him for the Denver game tomorrow at home, which I think we have a better chance of winning (JMO). But I don't think EJ will do that. So my backup proposal is if the Wiz fall behind in Jersey by more than 15 points any time after mid-second quarter, that EJ sit Gil for the rest of the game.

With your star hurting, it's necessary to throw in the towel on some of these games earlier than usual. To me it's just a question of playing the probabilities. That long-shot attempt at a comeback (ie. the Boston game) deprives you of a better chance to win the next game.

What?

What?

What?

"I won't say that I'm being defended differently but last year, I was used to Gilbert coming down and making plays, Antawn and Caron making shots and right now, when I get it, I have to create and I'm hesitating," Stevenson said. "I'm not getting the wide-open jump shots I usually get. So, I think once Gil gets his mojo back, Caron gets his swagger back and Antawn starts hitting his threes, that will open things up for everybody else."

Wow!!! We outbid ourselves 15 million for 3 years for this????? Is it me or does it look like DS looks "really slow"??? DS is talking like he is Jon Berry, Steve Kerr, or some other great "spot-up" shooter.

His "j" was never like that anyway. That is why Orlando only offered him that 10 million dollar deal for 3 years. That is what he is worth. I ain't mad at DS for getting all he can get, but he is not a 15 million dollar player over 3 years.

I still think EG made this happen to make Gilbert happy. Another thing I noticed was the point guard we had here in the summer that went overseas (Chase????) was the real deal. However you notice when he took that deal to go overseas he pretty much said he did not think he had a chance to make the team here, so he is going with the sure thing.

Why is that you ask? The other point guard here from DC was in camp. This young boy (can't remember his name) was under Gilbert's wing. I think my boy (the one who went overseas) saw the writing on the wall and left. Little did he know the young point guard from DC was going to be picked up by the Heat playing in a Barry Farms game, thus leaving the 3rd point guard spot "wide open".

The young boy was with Gilbert at the time and playing in the games. I saw the games and he looked ordinary at best to me. The guy overseas now will blow him out of the water. What I am trying to say is, Gilbert has a lot of pull right now because of the option year thing.

We have DS sitting there with an overpriced contract, and we do not have a "young" point guard we are grooming to backup Gil for the next couple of years. Gil's boy signed with the Heat and the other guy is overseas. Both of these situtions are the effect of EG trying to keep Gilbert happy.

Nothing wrong with that. But I will have a problem with it if Gilbert decides to fly the coop. As I have started mentioning, Gilbert needs to tone down the "self media bliz" parade and concentrate on getting his knee healthy and coming back strong.

I don't want Gilbert going anywhere. I still believe the Wizards would still be in it's sorry state if it was not for him turning things around. For all that he deserves credit, but he needs to let the credit come to him vs. going out looking for it all the time.

It is entertaining when you are winning and producing, but when you are not it makes things worse. If you know your knee is not right, don't talk junk until it is right and then go back to being the entertainer. I have no problems with the show. I like it myself.

Back to basketball. Anybody here watched the Spurs-Heat game last night. Of the Spurs big 3 only Parker went over the 40 min. playing time. Duncan got 31 minutes (!) and Manu has 35. There bench which is not much better that the Wiz got a lot of PT. Imagine Matt Bonner getting 20 minutes (!). It's a miracle if EJ plays AB the whole quarter. What I mean is coaches decision has a lot to do and not just the players.

Since we're in the topic of Abe's cheapness. Anybody here knows where the Wiz rank in terms of salary per team.

AB isn't going to play until EJ is fired. So get use too him riding the bench. Gil knee will probably need a second "minor" procedure. EJ is going to continue to play him because his job is on the line. NJ will cruschthe by 17+ when they play and you will see the same coaching effort as always.

Lets face it the wizdogs aren't going anywhere until EG makes a oaching change. Like I said before EJ will be gone around the 22nd game of the year when the wizdogs are about 5 and 17. After a 2 and 11 start.

AB is in the doghouse at the moment. And EJ is going to give DMAC AB minutes instead. After EJ is fired look for the wizdogs to trade AB and a damaged Gil to the lakers for Kobe!

DeBrickashawn is just awful. I don't care how average his defense is, we need some offense from our SG with the big 3 struggling. Give Mason and Young some more burn and limit DeBrick to being a defensive specialist.

Of course this will never happen and our reserves will be buried on the bench while the big three average 40+ minutes and burn themselves out.

re. salary per team, the ESPN trade machine has some numbers. I don't know if those are reliable or what but it does show how much over/under the teams are.
They have payroll at $67,757,751 and at -$12M cap room. Compare to Cleveland payroll at $67,723,135 and cap room at -$12M. Or Mavs at $ 95,604,543 and -$39M cap room. Someone who understands this better than I do, please explain the impact of various exceptions on the salary cap.
Another question is what is the luxury tax limit?

IF I OWNED THE WIZARDS WE WOULD BE 4-0 RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!! AND ON THE COVER OF EVERY MAGAZINE.

Joint aspiration

Removal of excess joint fluid can temporarily bring some relief from pain, but the meniscus will not heal and the fluid will usually reaccumulate.

DeShawn is not overpaid. He makes less than any of the other starters (of course). He is also earning less than Etan, AD, or Songaila.

I don't think we can sign anyone to take Etan's place who will play many meaningful minutes for us. What we need is someone who will be a good practice partner and mentor for our young bigs. How about bringing in someone like Webber as an assistant coach? CWebb knows the Princeton better than just about any bigman out there. I assume he's mellowed since he left DC the first time and won't contribute to AB's delinquency. Might even be a good thing. Something in common to bond over.

Meniscus Repair
A meniscus repair is a surgical procedure done to repair the damaged meniscus. This procedure can restore the normal anatomy of the knee, and has a better long-term prognosis when successful. However, the meniscus repair is a more significant surgery, the recovery is longer, and, because of limited blood supply to the meniscus, it is not always possible.

Meniscectomy
A meniscectomy is a procedure to remove the torn portion of the meniscus. This procedure is far more commonly performed than a meniscus repair. Most meniscus tears cannot be treated by a repair for a number of reasons. Often the tear is in an avascular region of the meniscus, and will not heal even if repaired. Some tears are frayed and cannot be sutured together. In these cases, the meniscectomy is done to remove the damaged portion of meniscus. The meniscectomy has a faster recovery, but it can lead to trouble years down the road because of the absence of the normal meniscus.

Les BouleS are shorthanded right now. No word from VC about EG bringing in people to work out to see if they can help the franchise.

Bringing in someone costs a plane ticket, a one night stay at a local hotel, and meals. Is that so expensive?

Good gosh, let's hope for Gilby's sake that he doesn't turn into Bo Jackson, part deux.

Hysterical.

DeShawn is not overpaid. He makes less than any of the other starters (of course). He is also earning less than Etan, AD, or Songaila.

Posted by: TC | November 8, 2007 11:39 AM

TC - With all due respect the dude is overpaid. Why do you think there was not ONE contract offer made to him when he was a UFO? AB on the other hand was a RFO, but every team in the league knew EG was going to match any contract made to him, so nobody offered AB anything.

Now back to DeShawn. Not one team showed any kind of interest according to most reports over the summer. Thus, the 10 million dollar deal over 3 years was more than fair for a bench player.

I said bench player (which is not a bad thing) because that is how he is deemed around the league. He is not a starting 2 guard, except for here. I keep hearing about his great defense, but I never really see it. Donnell Taylor played way better perimeter defense then DS ever did.

Again, am I a DS hater? Heck no. I like his game too, but he needs to show me he is justified in that contract he got. I saw him at Barry Farms play a couple of times and you would not believe how different a ball player he is.

I know, I know, this is Barry Farms with no real NBA competition and so on and so on; but the one thing I noticed with him there was he had a lot of flash with his game.

He was doing stuff I did not think he was able to do. He always looks so stiff when he is playing in NBA games, so it was nice to see him get funky a little bit. He has it in him, but for some reason he never shows any of that in games.

Maybe he is hurt and I just don't know about it. He looks so stiff all of time so maybe something is going on with his back or his knees, who knows.

To summarize, a starter making that kind of money should not being saying I am waiting for Gil to find his mojo so I can then start hitting. He should not be second guessing himself when he has declared he is a legit starting 2 guard. Just go out and play loose and be yourself and do your thing.

Thanks Dave - yes - agreed - back to basketball. Fantastic games last nite. more to come..including Wiz.

Don't know why there is so much "infighting & bickering on this site. cheez!

It used to be fun bantering back & forth with Mr. DC88'er NOW! its savagery. UGH!!!
"I know everything & you don't: profanity, vulgarity: f--ks, di-ks. Sad.

Truth? - we're all drinking same kool-aid. Nobody on here works for the organization & All at the mercy of various sports writers. Makes no sense.

Every now & then I peek in to see what Mr. DCMan has said "funny. That guy is Hilarious!!" then get out. This nasty cast of charaters make it ugly.

After they read this - look for a snide remark prob the "Kal" guy..guaranteed.

Good luck.

Our team, when healthy, can be pretty good -- we just need a new coach to get the best out of our players. We also REALLY need a legit power forward. I used to say that we really needed a decent center, too, but with the recent superior play of Haywood I'm starting to think that the problem has been the coach and not Brendan. Because Grunfeld did a great job of depleting the roster so EJ is forced to play Haywood right now, and it's paying dividends. I say the next smart move is to seriously be trying to trade AJ's $16M expiring contract (which is a real nice bargaining chip) for a legit big rebounder. Think: Wilcox or even Brand.

Fact: The Wizards are the only team in American professional sports to go with a roster several players short in order to save money.

Fiction: It would cost Abe Pollin 3 million to sign someone to the league minimum because of the luxury tax

Fact: The Wizards lose the 2nd game of a back-to-back nearly every time

Fiction: The Wizards can continue to play with an incomplete roster and begin winning the 2nd game of a back-to-back

Fact: The Wizards did not keep Michael Ruffin and Donnell Taylor because Abe Pollin is cheap

Fiction: The Wizards are fine without them

Fact: Abe Pollin is the cheapest owner in the NBA

Fiction: You can win a championship with 3 less players on your roster than every other team in the league

For those proclaiming how much Abe's cheapness is hurting the team, name the minimum salary players the team could sign that would make them enough of a winner to make it worth sacrificing $3+ million in luxury tax payout.

I'll save you some time -- there are no such players.

Fever, just because we could have screwed DeShawn on his contract doesn't mean we should have. You have to try to keep the guy happy if you want to get anything out of him. I thought his contract was about right.

TC, I agree with you. That is a reasonable contract for a starting 2 and it's kept short enough to make room for a rising Nick Young.

We have 12 players on the active roster. Why is everyone gnashing their teeth that we don't have two more guys on injured reserve alongside Etan? If we go less than 12 then maybe there's room to b*tch, but until then Wondering is right: what pine jockey out there is worth $3m in salary and luxury tax?

I thought Stevenson got a 4 year deal for 15m?

Gil's playing time should have been gradually ramped up and monitored to see how he responded. Going from 19m be game and sitting out some games in preseason to averaging 41m in the first three games with a back to back in there makes no sense.

Still can't see how adding two more players to the roster will help when we have a coach that can't figure out how to out how to get our number one reserve big man of the bench.

"Fiction: It would cost Abe Pollin 3 million to sign someone to the league minimum because of the luxury tax"

Going ove rmeans you lose the payout from the tax. The last payout was nearly 3 mil. Also add the dollar for dollar tax paid. So a player that puts us even 500K over the cap would cost the team 4 million. So you're right, its fiction, but only cuz of bad math.

Abe is cheap, Don't you remeber he used to have the team stay at some dump hotel ouot by the airport in Portland becouse Abe's brother was a part owner. The holet sucked and all players complained about it. It was out by the airport and nowhere near downtown. No other teams in the NBA used the hotel, just the Bullets. This is just an example of his cheapness. Everything counts in the free agent market, not just the money offered to the player, but the perks, atmophere, and all things realted to the team count. You have to spend money to make money and Abe has always tried to spend as little as possible when it comes to the team. I sometimes think he just does not relize what a good investment it would be to spend the money to make free agents WANT to come here. Has anyone ever heard of a free agnet saying they really wnat to come and play for the WIZ.
Go Wiz, lets win tonight.