11/05/24
August 07, 2002
Another Shaq inspired blockbuster...: Dikembe couldn't get it done for the Sixers, now it seems the aging pivot is having a shot at Shaq (and the title) with the Eastern Champ Nets. But is he worth it? The Sixers thought he could bring them a (better shot at the) championship - but that didn't pan out. So why will it with the Nets? I'd bet that it doesn't.
The question is really is this a case of semantics? Is it futile, can anyone stop Shaq and would the be better off ditching Van Horn for someone younger with an upside? Does anyone care about the Nets...
posted by brove to basketball at 02:51 AM - 4 comments
I'm not sure that what the Nets need is more defense, however. They were the second-best fast-break team in the NBA last year. Add one of the league's best defenders and shot-blockers, and give a younger, more athletic forward more minutes, and this year they could be better than even Sacramento at getting easy buckets.... Mutombo will also be a good tutor for Jason Collins, who looks like he can really play. And if Jefferson develops a game for the set offense, the Nets won't even miss Van Horn, who was simply too inconsistent for a championship contender.
posted by ajax at 09:01 AM on August 07, 2002
I'm having doubts aboiut how Mutombo affects the Nets fast break game. Admittedly, he will average a few more blocks and rebounds, but he's never been the fastest to outlet.
I'm worried he might clog the offense.
posted by jmevius at 10:15 AM on August 07, 2002
A good move, if only to get rid of Keith and Todd. Dikembe is not the answer, but I agree with insomnyuk and ajax that Richard and Jason are young and seem to have some strong potential. (Keith, Todd, Richard, and Jason -- sounds like a suburban boy's band.)
posted by jacknose at 01:49 PM on August 07, 2002
I think Richard Jefferson (who just came off his rookie year with the Nets) is extremely talented, so the part about ditching Van Horn for a younger player with an upside has already happened, in my opinion. I'm not sure that what the Nets need is more defense, however. Their scorers (Van Horn included) just weren't coming up with the key shots during the finals. With Kenyon Martin, Dikembe Mutombo, and Richard Jefferson anchoring the defense, along with Jason Kidd on point guard (always a threat with the steals) the Nets should have a really intimidating defense. Also, Martin, Kidd, and Jefferson can score. What they need to put the puzzle together is a shooting guard who can actually score in the clutch and a strong center/power forward to backup Mutombo and Martin and add some scoring.