WarriorsWorld hooked up with Art Garcia of NBA.com to get his quick thoughts on a few issues. Art tells us which rookies are off to a good start, which players might be on the move and his perception of the Warriors.
Couple of weeks into the regular season now, what are some of the things that have stood out thus far both good and bad?
A.G.: The rookie class is developing nicely. Everyone knows about Brandon Jennings, but look out for Tyreke Evans and Jonny Flynn. Darren Collison is getting some nice run now with CP3 out. OKC is bringing it just about every night, which is fun to watch. I’m surprised that Utah just can’t seem to get it together on a consistent basis. The Jazz have talent.
Byron Scott already fired down in New Orleans; rumors of Nelson swirling around in Golden State, Frank off to a horrid start in NJ, What coach(es) are on the proverbial hot seat and may get the pink slip soon?
A.G.: Not sure if anyone else is going soon. My colleague Fran Blinebury recently compiled odds on the next coach to go. You might want to check it out at NBA.com. (http://www.nba.com/2009/news/features/fran_blinebury/11/18/coaches/index.html)
Plenty of big moves this past off-season, which moves are already paying dividends and which are looking not so hot?
A.G.: Ron-Ron is fitting in nicely with the Lakers and Ariza has been nails in Houston, so both sides did well there. Jefferson and McDyess are still feeling their way in San Antonio, but I expect both to get it. The Pistons were busy (Gordon and Villanueva) but don’t have many wins to show for it.
Thoughts on some rookies have performed well and those who haven’t?
A.G.: The ones I mentioned before, plus I like what I’ve seen from Marcus Thornton, Omri Casspri and Stephen Curry. Look out for the boys in OKC, James Harden and Serge Ibaka. Thabeet Haslem has easily been the biggest disappointment, but those of us who saw him in summer league aren’t surprised. For more on the rookies: http://www.nba.com/rookies/
Teams looking to shed salary in these hard economic times will be plentiful, which big names do you see being made available and being traded?
A.G.: Tracy McGrady has to top the list. Erick Dampier is another to consider. Go ahead on throw most of the Knicks on the list.
Do you see Iverson coming back? If so, what other teams besides the Grizzlies could he be attractive to and contribute to, any championship contenders possibly make a run at him?
A.G.: I can’t see any contender making a move on AI right now. Maybe later in the season, especially if injuries hit.
Warriors are mired in tons of drama and mystery. What’s your take on the whole mess in Golden State? Is there any light at the end of the tunnel?
A.G.: I’m a big fan of the Warriors and Nellie, but I think it’ll be best for all parties when a change is made there. Nellie can coach — he’s one of the best all-time — but this groups isn’t ready to win yet. I think he’s done a great job getting Keith Smart ready, so maybe it’s time to make the switch. This team does have good young talent. (http://bit.ly/8q3a6Z)
How vital is it for a winning organization to have a committed owner and reputable management group? Do you see the Warriors sustaining success with Cohan as owner?
A.G.: Both are key and it hasn’t been the smoothest sailing so far. But just as players and coaches improve over time, I believe the same can be said for management. Oakland loves its basketball and the fans there deserve a winner.
Familiar with Warriorsworld.net? If so, thoughts on the site?
A.G.: Became familiar since I joined the Twitter universe a couple weeks back and I enjoy. Lots of info and good video. Keep up the great work.
The Rockets must trade McGrady this coming treading season. He is the biggest disappointment this year or this season. Rockets doesn’t need him anymore they already got Ariza and Brooks to be the franchise player for the Houston ball club.
Nice Job Sheed!