WDBO Sports Director Scott Anez has seen, or listened to, every Orlando Magic game ever played! Scott began his career covering the Magic's first season in 1989 and is known as the Voice of the Magic Fan in Orlando. Scott has hosted Orlando's highest rated sports talk show, Inside Magic, for 15 years. He also serves as the Host for the Magic Radio Network, he has backed up David Steele on Magic TV and serves as a guest on Jeep Midnight Magic. Scott shares his unique take on what's going on at Two Magic Place and beyond with ANEZ SEZ. Read more of Scott's previous blogs at
http://580wdbo.com.
Posted by Scott Anez, Saturday, July 5, 2008, 3:14PM
MAGIC ON POINT
Chris Duhon, what's it gonna be?
NOTE: Scott Anez will be on vacation beginning July 7th. Check back later this month for more Sez!
The Orlando Magic have reportedly made a 3 year $10 million offer for the free agent's services. So much for the whole Corey Maggette idea, huh?
Apparently, Duhon is mulling it over. Earlier this week, he received a 2 year $7 million offer from the NY Knicks. To me, there ain't a whole lot to think about. The difference between the two offers comes out to about $3 mil, playing alongside Dwight Howard and a chance to win a championship. In NY, Chris, you pay more in taxes, most of your teammates are boneheads and you'll have about as much chance of winning a title as I do a Pulitzer.
Duhon is a four year vet. He became expendable when the Bulls selected Derrick Rose with the #1 pick in the NBA Draft. Duhon is a role player who primarily plays the point.
GM Otis Smith's pursuit of Chris Duhon tells me three things: 1. The Magic want so shore up their point guard position. 2. The Magic would like to split their mid-level exception to sign another player, preferably a big, later in the summer. 3. Otis apparently feels more urgency about his point guard spot than his starting shooting guard position.
Chris Duhon would be an ideal backup to Jameer Nelson. Duhon is not gonna knock your sox off with Sportscenter dispsy doo dunkaroos. He's more substance than style. The thing that really jumps out at you about Duhon is that hes had a 4-1 assist-to-turnover ratio the last two years with the Bulls. The man doesn't give games away. We could have used some of that in the playoff series vs. Detroit, huh?
If Duhon decides that we're the apple of his eye, it's a move that would signal an end to Carlos Arroyo's tenure here. Talent has never been an issue with Carlos. Consistency and leadership has. Duhon would bring a steadying presence to that back up point guard spot, something that Carlos was just not able to do.
It's interesting, knowing how tenuous our shooting guard spot is right now, that Otis is choosing to make a back up point guard his free agent priority. There are other pressing issues on this team. We need another big. More importantly, that starting shooting guard spot is in some serious flux at the moment. Perhaps Otis feels confident about re-signing Maurice Evans? Maybe we're gonna piece together that spot with Bogans, JJ and free agent Keyon Dooling?
That brings us to another question. What about Keyon? To me, he's the one free agent on this team we can ill-afford to lose. Keyon brings so much passion to this team off the bench. If Duhon decides to come here, I don't believe that should impact Keyon's status here. Sure, Keyon plays some back up point guard, but Keyon is more of a combo guard, an energy guy who you can't really pigeon hole into one set position. Guys like Keyon are hard to find. We can't break the bank, but I believe that we have to do everything we can to re-up Keyon.
Chris Duhon, the ball is in your court. Please make your decision quickly. Otis has much to do this summer.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Tuesday, July 1, 2008, 9:40AM
IS MAGGETTE THE MAN?
Let the courting begin.
The NBA free agency period began at 12:01 am Tuesday.
What will the Orlando Magic do?
Let's all keep in mind that this is not last summer. In 2007, the Magic and General Manager Otis Smith had oodles under the salary cap to throw Rashard Lewis a $118 million bone.
This year, the well is all dried up. All we have this summer is our good looks, the lure of playing with Dwight Howard, sunshine, no state taxes, a shot at a championship and the mid-level exception (circa $5.6 million a year) to try to woo free agents to town.
That list of unrestricted free agents is less than overwhelming. Baron Davis has shockingly opted out of a Golden State deal that would have paid him $17.8 million next season. Baron, what in the name of DeShawn Stevenson are you and your agent thinking? Perhaps Davis and Arenas will switch uniforms? I don't know, but I am pretty sure that Baron Davis will go down as the only person in the history of the world to walk away from nearly $18 mil in guaranteed money.
Other names on that list include Elton Brand (expected to re-sign with LAC), Gilbert Arenas (expected to re-up with Washington), Corey Maggette and Michael Pietrus. Let's put the Bulls' Chris Duhon on this list as well for Magic purposes. Duhon may make a nice defensive-minded back up in Orlando.
The top five restricted free agents are as follows: Andre Igoudala, Josh Smith, Jose Calderon, Luol Deng and Monta Ellis. With the possible exception of Smith, I suspect the rest on that list will re-sign with their respective clubs.
Now, our options are extremely limited but I guarantee Otis is gonna do something (how's that for a prediction?).
Maggette is an interesting option.
Corey's 'people' are shouting out to most every Orlando media member who'll listen that he would love to be courted by the Magic. Frankly, I'd love to see it happen.
Tuesday, Corey opted out of a Clipper deal that would have paid him $7 million next year. Corey played his rookie season with the Magic back in 1999-2000. He would certainly fill a need at our starting shooting guard spot. Last season, he averaged over 22 points per game, a career high, and is still the freakish athlete we saw in his rookie season.
Corey's parents still live here in town and he would certainly fit the bill for a Magic team built upon a foundation of character guys. Corey's a good guy and a hard worker who's entering the prime years of his career (he turns 29 in November).
Will he take less $ to come home? Good question, considering he'll likely have three of four other teams throwing big dough at him.
Maggette's my man....But I don't count.
Never a dull moment at Two Magic Place.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Friday, June 27, 2008, 9:21AM
OTIS GETS HIS MAN
Courtney Lee is the guy we targeted. Courtney Lee is the guy we got.
Thursday night, the Magic selected Lee with the 22nd pick in the NBA Draft.
The 6-5 shooting guard from Indianapolis played four seasons at Western Kentucky where he averaged over 20 points per game in his senior season. Lee is known as one of the purest scorers in the nation. He led the Hilltoppers to the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA Tournament. One of his most memorable games was the Tournament win over San Diego in Tampa where he tossed in 29 points to send the vertically challenged 'toppers to the Regional Semifinals. Lee's Cinderella season would end with a loss to UCLA.
Considering the uncertainty of our shooting guard position, Lee is a kid who has the ability to come in and make an impact. With a few tweaks here and there, he'll have an NBA-ready body. He is a scorer who is not shy about pulling up from mid-range, a lost art in today's game. Having played the point guard spot during his sophomore season, Lee can handle rock a little as well, but don't plan on seeing him become our floor general any time soon.
On the down side, Lee will have to overcome the stigma of jumping into the NBA fire from a mid-major program.
We know the kid can score. Now, he's now gonna have to show that he can defend the two guard position at the next level and improve his consistency.
Courtney Lee is a high character kid. Why doesn't that surprise me?
Otis Smith has not been a GM for long, but the one common thread in Otis's short tenure is that he is high on character, low-maintenance guys, team-first players. No Boneheads allowed!
Courtney Lee is no bonehead. Finding any sort of baggage on this kid is not easy.
Now, Lee will be the first one to admit that the main reason he attended a small school after finishing second in the running for Indiana's Mr. Basketball is that he just didn't take his early years of high school as seriously as he should have. Many of the big boys backed off. He settled on WKU.
Early in his collegiate career, Lee would suffer the loss of his mentor, roommate, best friend and teammate Danny Rumph to a heart condition. Lee credits the late Rumph for convincing him to remain at WKU when severe bouts of homesickness would hit. To this day, Courtney Lee dedicates his basketball career to the late Rumph and the impact he had on his life.
What kind of impact will Lee have in Orlando in year one? That remains to be seen.
What we do know is this: Otis Smith got his man in Courtney Lee.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Thursday, June 26, 2008, 9:13AM
JUST THE WAY I LIKE IT
This year's NBA Draft grab your fancy yet?
Me neither. But, ya know what? This is the way it should be. Picking late in the first round of the NBA Draft translates into a great regular season. Give me boring draft nights for the next 20 years!
Let's get this straight: the player we pick at 22 tonight is gonna have warts. He won't be perfect. We won't be throwing a ticker tape parade down Orange Avenue for him tomorrow. It's highly unlikely that we'll be hanging this kid's number from the rafters in 15 years.
With that said, I think we're gonna get a solid player. This draft, while lacking star power after the top two or three picks, is deep enough to where the Orlando Magic can walk away with a guy who can help us now and into the future.
Magic GM Otis Smith held a pre-draft news conference Tuesday. Otis talked for 13 minutes, but didn't say a whole lot. How can you blame the guy? NBA execs cannot, and should not, tip their hands at this very crucial time of year.
So, we're left with an educated guessing game.
I could throw a whole host of names at ya...but I've narrowed my list to three:
Chris Douglas Roberts. I stated a few weeks ago that my pick would be CDR. But rumor mill has it that his stock is falling rapidly. Apparently, NBA types are concerned about his ability to score at the next level. From what I hear, CDR's workouts in Orlando and other whistle stops were less than stellar. We'll see. I still think he would fit this team. He's versatile and big for a two guard. The kid shot 54% from the field last season. He averaged 18 points per game and stroked it at a 41% clip from beyond the arc.
Courtney Lee. I like the fact that he's stayed in college for four years. Excellent shooter. He averaged 20 points and shot 48% FG last season at Western Kentucky. Lee has the ability create his own shot at the next level. He has a high basketball IQ and I am told he's a good character guy. The red flags? Lee has a tendency to become invisible on the court at times and disappeared in the NCAA Tournament. Defensively, he needs work.
Marreese Speights. Will he be around when the Magic pick 22? It's unlikely, but if Otis is gonna stick with his strategery of picking the best available player on the board, the kid from St. Pete is the one! We need a big. Marreese is plenty big and still growing. In just 24 minutes per game for Coach Billy this past season, Speights averaged 14.5 points and 8 rebounds. If those numbers were to be projected out to 40 minute per #'s, they'd look like this: 28 points and 18 rebounds. The question marks surrounding young Speights center around his work ethic and a raw outside shot.
If Marreese Speights is still on the board, don't ya have to take the Florida Gator?
There ya go. That's my finalist list for the Magic's #22 pick. It's not the most exciting list in the world. But, ya know what? That's just the way I like it.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Tuesday, June 23, 2008, 2:54PM
DON'T BELIEVE EVERYTHING YA READ
Who's it gonna be?
Courtney Lee? Chris Douglas Roberts? Roy Hibbert? Bill Walker? Robin Lopez?
Who will be the Magic's pick at #22 in the first round?
You NBA Draft geeks are in your glory this time of year.
I have been covering the draft for a long time now. Some of you consider the draft a passion of yours. I enjoy the draft...but I'd much rather watch the fourth quarter of a tight NBA game. I actually covered the draft before the internet age when reporters actually had to work their contacts and the phones instead of browsing the web to get their 'inside' information.
There are scores of NBA Draft related websites. They each have their own mock drafts, team needs and player profiles. Heck, some even proclaim to have the 2020 NBA Draft already broken down!
Now, these websites are invaluable. I love 'em. I couldn't do my draft prep without them. But can we please get real with some perspective here?
Did you ever notice that each potential draftee is the next coming of (insert name here)? Derrick Rose is Dwayne Wade. Michael Beasley is Carmelo Anthony. OJ Mayo is Ben Gordon. Kevin Love is, gulp, Wes Unseld? Wes Unseld? Kevin Love couldn't carry the ole Baltimore Bullet's jock strap. Derrick Rose is a very good player, but comparing him to D-Wade? PUUHLEAASE. Let's allow these guys to become who they are, not who we want them to be.
Ya ever notice how, according to the web, every player has tremendous upside and is seemingly a Hall of Famer in the making? "Incredibly explosive"..."Great Shooter"..."Athletic"..."Excellent floor vision"..."Gifted offensive player". Not once have I seen, "This guy's a bust waiting to happen" or, "Stay away from picking this cancer!". 1-60, these potential draftees all have the potential to become the next coming of Bird, Magic and Michael combined. You want to know that truth? The truth of the matter is that a majority of these 60 players won't even be in the NBA in three years.
With that said, these sites can be valuable tools to find out what's going on in other cities. So, because of their popularity, they're also used in counter-intelligence. Say, for instance, that Magic GM Otis Smith is interested in taking Courtney Lee from Western Kentucky with the #22 pick. Do you think that, in this day of the instant information age, Otis would allow that 411 to get out on the web so that other teams can peruse in real time? What I am saying here is that there is a whole bunch NBA execs whose noses are growing this time of year. Why in the world would any NBA GM show his hand?
I have my favorite NBA Draft websites. The depth of some of these sites is absolutely phenomenal.
But, this time of year, don't believe everything ya read.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 9:51AM
SEZ'S MAGIC MIX
...Word is that Adonal Foyle will opt out of the final year of his contract and not be back with our Magic next season. Adonal's a wonderful human being and I wish him well...but Adonal was his own worst enemy in the second half of this past season when he allowed himself to get outta shape. He just couldn't keep up. Marcin Gortat, who has promise, took over Adonal's minutes in back of Dwight Howard in the playoffs and made his presence known. Can't say as much for Adonal in the second half of the season.
...With the #22 pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, Sez takes....Chris Douglas Roberts from Memphis!
...Since the Magic have been in the league, check out some of the names pick 22 has yielded: Victor Khryapa (2004), Corey Jacobsen (2002), Jeryl Sasser (Orlando-2001), Donnell Harvey (2000), Ed Gray (1997), Roy Rogers (1996) and George Zidek (1995).
...There have been a few mild success stories at #22 over the years. Last year, the Nets took the promising Jared Dudley at 22. Jarrett Jack went 22 to the Blazers in 2005. Zoran Planinic went to NJ at 22 in 2003. Kenny Thomas went 22 to the Rockets in 1999 and Chris Mills was the 22nd pick in the 1993 draft. So history tells us that, barring a trade up, don't expect our draftee to come in and turn City Beautiful on its ear.
...We have had our issues over the years picking mid-to-late first round, as has every NBA team. 2003 Reece Gaines (15). 2001 Sassafrass. 1997 Johnny Taylor (17). 1996 Brian Evans (27). 1995 David Vaughn (25). 1994 Brooks Thompson (27). 1993 Geert Hammink (26).
...Trader Otis is gonna be active this summer, but even if he flops in the draft, free agency and potential trades, this Magic team is gonna get better. Dwight will have another year under his belt. Rashard will feel more comfortable in year two in Orlando. Jameer will have gained more confidence playing the point. Tony Battie will be back. The coaching staff will be more settled and this team will have more experience of playing together.
...For you emailers telling me that the Magic should trade Hedo Turkoglu before he opts out of his contract next season: POPPYCOCK! Sure, Hedo had a tough series vs. Detroit, but this guy is the most versatile player in the game today. He is such a huge part of what we do offensively. He's improved drastically on the defensive end. Believe me, the grass ain't greener on the other side of that fence.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Tuesday, June 3, 2008, 8:51AM
WELL DESERVED
Monday, Orlando Magic President and CEO Bob Vanderweide gave General Manager Otis Smith and Assistant GM Dave Twardzik contract extensions. The deals are well deserved!
Heck, I am of the belief that Bobby V. should have granted Otis a lifetime deal back in February of 2006 when Otis, somehow, dumped the mercurial Steve Francis and his gross contract on Isiah Thomas's doorstep. That deal, to me, should have earned Otis the Executive of the Year Award for the lifetime of Francis's contract.
Actually, Otis is being rewarded for a full body of work. He's built a nucleus of young, talented and winning basketball players here in Orlando. He's also being rewarded for playing a major part in altering the culture of this franchise. You sit down and talk with Otis and I guarantee you not a sentence goes by without him uttering the word "championship". This franchise is pointed upward thanks in large part to O!
Would Otis and Dave like a do-over in the drafting of Fran Vazquez in 2005? Sure. Was JJ Redick the pick in 2006? That's up for debate. The point is that I do not know of any perfect NBA execs...
Red Auerbach, the patriarch of the Boston Celtics, built that franchise on the strength of great drafts and shrewd trades. However, even Red had his share of blemishes. The ole Celtic fan in me still has a hard time forgiving the late and great Red Head for trading Danny Ainge to Sacramento for Ed Pinckney and Joe Kleine in 1989.
Speaking of Ainge, the current GM in Boston, Celtic fans were ready to run him outta Beantown on 'The T' after his C's recorded a scant 24 wins in 2006-2007. Yet, Ainge gets a little help from his friend Kevin McHale in trading for KG and all of a sudden the guy's a genius and the NBA's Executive of the Year.
Look at Mitch Kupchak in Los Angeles. Last May, after winning 42 regular season games and being eliminated from round one by Phoenix, Kobe Bryant demanded that his old buddy Jerry West take over for the embattled Kupchak. Kobe had one foot in Chicago in October. Yet, a few months later, Kupchak robs Memphis blind in getting Pau Gasol. Now, Kobe and Laker fans are smitten with ole Mitch as his Lakers go into the Finals series with Ainge's Celtics.
Go on down the line...Detroit's Joe Dumars, considered one of the best bosses in the NBA, is not without blemish. Joe would love a mulligan after drafting Darko Milicic in 2003 ahead of guys like Dwayne Wade, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh.
The point is that in this fickle business of NBA basketball everybody makes mistakes. The key to NBA front office longevity, though, is to make sure that the list of credits far outweighs the list of debits.
Otis Smith has done just that.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Monday, June 2, 2008, 9:14AM
THIS IS GONNA BE GOOD
The league could not have scripted a better NBA Finals.
The Lakers and Celtics will play game one in Boston Thursday.
This series will be the most watched since the Jordan years of the '90's because this is a match up that will attract those casual fans that make a marked difference in the television ratings game.
Why will this series be Must See TV?
...The two best teams in the world are playing for a championship. Boston wracked up 66 regular season wins by smothering teams defensively. The C's held opponents to a league low 41.9% shooting. The Lakers, averaging over 108 points per game, are of the best offensive teams goin'. They're led by an unstoppable force, MVP Kobe Bryant.
...It's all about the stars, stupid! You have Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and Paul Pierce on the Boston side. You have Kobe on the Lakers' side. You have the Zen Master, Phil Jackson, on the Laker sideline. You have a lot of big names and big personalities in this series.
...You have that whole east coast-west coast thing goin' on. You cannot get more polar opposite than these two cities. Boston's blue-collar and hard core. L-A's white collar and late arriving. In Beantown. they're already chanting, "Beat L-A, Beat L-A"!
...You have two of the biggest markets in the league.
...You have the two marquee NBA franchises opposing one another: the Celtics, with their league leading 16 Championships, though this will be Boston's first Finals appearance in 21 years...The Lakers won their 14th title back in 2002.
...LET'S GO RETRO! How many highlights have we already seen of those classic '80's battles between the Celtics and the Lakers. In 1984, '85 and '87, Magic and Bird squared off in a rivalry that elevated the NBA to unparalleled popularity. Magic won two...Bird, one. Back in the '60's, these clubs met a total of six times in the Finals with Bill Russell's Celtics coming out on top each time. In all, this will be the tenth Finals meeting between these two ole foes.
How do these 2007-2008 Celtic and Laker teams compare to greats of the past? PLEASE, let's not even go there! Those great '80's Boston and L-A squads were some of the best the world has ever seen.
However, that doesn't take anything away from what should be a great series...a series that will undoubtedly lift the NBA to higher heights.
The Celtics. The Lakers. This is gonna be good.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Friday, May 23, 2008, 9:30AM
A CHAT WITH OTIS
(Scott Anez)...Otis, you've had more than a week to digest the second round of the playoffs and the season that was. What are your thoughts about the big picture of the 2007-2008 season?
(Otis Smith)...I think we made strides as a club. I think we have a little ways to go to understand how hard and how disciplined you have to be in the playoffs in order to win games, but I think we definitely made strides. Our guys, as late as last Friday, were still really hurting from the loss to Detroit, so that's encouraging in a way to know that they, to a man, think that we should be still playing right now.
(S)...This team's accomplishments this year are many: 52 wins, a divisional title, a playoff series win over Toronto. But, in this league, you're only as good as your last game. So what, if anything, did the series vs. Detroit reveal to you about your team?
(O)...Number one is that Detroit's been there before. The Pistons are a veteran team. We didn't take care of the ball and we didn't make shots. All the things we did during the course of the season, we didn't do particularly well during the playoffs. We all know the game slows down a bit during the playoffs, so we have to figure out ways to score points. Our better players, Dwight, Turk, Rashard and Jameer, have to figure out ways to improve as well. We just have to continue to improve and add a few pieces for us to get better to give us a chance to win a championship.
(S)...Dwight Howard was amazing this year. What have you told Dwight about what he has to do to get this team to the next level?
(O)...It's more of what Stan has told him, and I echo Stan's thoughts. He needs to do two things. The first is free throw shooting. He has to be able to shoot free throws at a better rate than he did this year. The second part is that he has to develop something to get away from double teams, whether it's a turn around jump shot or a hook or something on the box that's gonna give him a chance to be effective throughout the course of a game when double teams are coming. Our assistant coach, Patrick Ewing was a master at that for years. But Dwight's free throw shooting is the biggest thing.
(S)...Rashard had a forgetful game five in Detroit, but on the whole he had a fantastic year. Did you get what you expected from Rashard this season?
(O)...I think so. We asked him to do what he's done his entire career, and I think he did just that. We asked him to play the power forward position when Tony went down and, to his credit, he did that on both ends of the floor playing against some of the better players in this league at that position. Rashard has to continue to get better and attack the basket, don't become just a perimeter shooter. And we have to do a better job of getting him more opportunities on the block. Those are some of the things that he's taken advantage of throughout his career and I think as time goes on we'll take advantage of his strengths.
(S)...What about Jameer: I thought he kicked it up a notch in the playoffs. What are your thoughts about Jameer and how he played this season?
(O)....Well, Jameer's gonna continue to grow. My concerns with Jameer are twofold. First, he has to take care of his body. Small guys have a tendency to get hurt because of where they are on the floor. They have to work harder to compete, so he has to take care of his body. Secondly, in the area of leadership, I always harp on our better players to be leaders. He has to continue to improve there. If he continues to shoot the ball well and make the decisions that he's capable of making on the floor, he'll continue to grow and flourish as a player.
(S)...The NBA Draft Camp comes to Orlando next week. What's the plan?
(O)....You evaluate and continue to evaluate the prospects and see what unfolds. We're picking 22nd. I do think that it's gonna be a deep enough draft to where we can get a player that we really like because of all the underclassmen that have declared so that makes the draft more attractive.
(S)...What are you looking to get in the draft?
(O)...I am not really one of those guys who goes into a draft saying that I need to have that position covered and this position covered. As many free agents we have in our back court, I probably am more apt to say that we need the best player on the board, regardless of position. I think that player will be there. Whether it's 1-5, I think you have to take the best player on the board.
(S)...Knowing you don't have salary cap room this off season, is it safe to say that you will not be a major player in free agency this summer?
(O)...I don't think it's THAT safe to say. I think there are three big time players in free agency: Philly, Memphis and Seattle. The rest of us are right around the mid-level. So I think everyone will be players. The difference this year is that there are more players that have the potential to become available through unrestricted free agency and opt outs than there is money to spend. So that makes available players a bit more attractive. You just have to do your best sales job, identify your player or players and kinda stay on that path.
(S)...There's been some talk about Hedo Turkoglu. He had such a great season. But knowing the economics of the game, the fact that he and Rashard play the same position, and the fact that Hedo can opt out of his deal next summer, does the possibility exist that Hedo is not here next season??
(O)...You always look at how to improve your team. But Turk is such a big part of what we do and he allows us to be what I call 'flexible' as a team. We're able to play him at the three or the four. Perhaps you can envision playing Turk some at the two, Rashard at the three, when Tony comes back at the four-spot. So, the flexibility of our roster has been one of the things that's been intriguing about our team. But you're still trying to make your team better and that's how you have to look at the off season.
(S)...You will have a share of your own free agents to deal with: Keyon Dooling, Maurice Evans and Carlos Arroyo to name a few. What's the plan with your own guys?
(O)...They all had good years. Maurice probably had his best year as a pro. Keyon had a good year for us. Carlos was big for us especially when Jameer was down. We're gonna look at it and talk about it and talk about the economics of it all. We're gonna figure out how it all fits. We like all those guys and we have to figure out how to get our team better.
(S)...I know this is a sore subject, but is there any chance whatsoever that Fran Vazquez, your first round pick from 2005, come over and play next season in Orlando?
(O)...If I had to put a percentage on it, I'd say less than two percentage points. A lot of it depends on him at this point. I think we've done a good job as an organization of letting him know how important he is to us. But he has two years left on a contract that has a buy out that's roughly around $10 million. There would have to be concessions on his part to say ya know what, I'm gonna come over and take a little less and I'll pay out my buyout and come over and play. That's the concession he has to make as a pro. He likes the idea of being in a Magic uniform, but financially, I think it might be tough for him.
Posted by Scott Anez, Thursday, May 15, 2008, 10:40 AM
LET IT GO SCOTT...LET IT GO
Less than 48 hours after Tayshaun swatted us from the NBA Playoffs, I have had time to try to put things into perspective.
Four seasons after finishing with the worst record in the Association, our Orlando Magic won 52 regular season games. They captured the Southeast Division title. They notched their first playoff series triumph in some 12 years. Dwight Howard soared to worldwide prominence in New Orleans. Superman also made the First Team All NBA and Second Team All NBA Defensive Team. Hedo Turkoglu was honored as the NBA's Most Improved Player.
I could go on and on about how this 2007-2008 Magic team put Orlando on the NBA map once again. But, being the eternal masochist that I tend to be, I can't help but think...What if?
What if NBA rules are different and what if Chauncey Bills' shot at the end of the third quarter of game two is (correctly) ruled no good?
What if Hedo drives, pulls up and takes a patented 10 footer instead of heaving a three point prayer with :42 left in game two?
With the Magic leading by 15 points in the third quarter of game four, what if we put the pedal to the medal and bury the Pistons?
What if referee Mike Callaghan (correctly) called a block on Jason Maxiell on the final play of game four?
What if we came out with any sort of energy at all in game five? What if we cut down on the 21 turnovers? What if we had hit more free throws? What if we decided to box out or guard Antonio McDyess? What if we had more poise early in the fourth?
UGGHHH!
The thing that really tears me up about this Eastern Conference Semifinal series is that the Orlando Magic beat themselves. I am not saying that the best team didn't win. The veteran Pistons are the better team. Detroit made clutch plays...They hit their free throws and they smothered us defensively.
But...I can't help myself. What if...What if?
Let it go, Scott...Let it go.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Wednesday, May 14, 2008, 9:44 AM
It's Over
It's over. The 2007-2008 NBA season in Orlando is dead and buried.
Pains me to say it...but the better team won!
FIRST QUARTER:
With nothing to lose, I expected the Magic to come out firing to begin the game. However, we were inexplicably tentative aloof! The Magic had seven turnovers in the first 8:45 of the quarter. Rashard Lewis had four of our eight total turnovers in the quarter. In an ominous sign of things to come, the Pistons hauled in five offensive rebounds and had nine more field goal attempts than Orlando. As poorly as the Magic played, the score read 20-20 after one.
SECOND QUARTER:
The Magic continue to play give away and miss free throws. Yet, we take a 33-27 lead after Rashard's first field goal of the game at the 5:35 mark of the quarter. Then, as the Pistons did all series, they went on a huge run (11-0) and took a 47-41 lead at halftime. We got a big time reprieve. Seems like we should be down by 20 considering the free throw shooting (7-16), the turnovers (12) and Detroit's 10 offensive rebounds.
THIRD QUARTER:
The Magic finally show some life. They started to play their game. They upped the tempo, cut down on the turnovers (three in the quarter), gave up just one offensive rebound and went on a 14-4 run to end the quarter to take a 68-65 leading going into the fourth.
FOURTH QUARTER:
It's 70-65 after a couple of Rashard free throws. Then, the Pistons go on a 13-0 run keyed by Antonio McDyess, who had 8 points and a couple of huge offensive rebounds during that game deciding jaunt. We start oh for our first eight from the field and don't hit our first field goal until the 3:38 mark. Magic cut it to 85-84 with :40 to play, but again, the Pistons make the plays late, i.e...a huge Prince block on Hedo to end all Magic hope. 91-86. Game over. Season over.
SUMMARY:
The Pistons made plays in crunch time....They took care of the ball....They hit their free throws....They defended.
The Magic just did not execute in late game situations. We didn't take care of the ball. We were frustrated by Detroit's physical play. We didn't take advantage of Chauncey Billups' absence and could not control Rip Hamilton all series.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Monday, May 12, 2008, 9:21 AM
A GUT-WRENCHING LOSS
Now I know what a Thomas Hearns haymaker to the gut feels like.
Pistons 90 Magic 89.
We couldn’t have picked a worse time to play one of our worst quarters of the year.
After a Mo Evans three pointer at the 9:06 mark of the third, Orlando led 63-48. Detroit was demoralized. Their shoulders were slouched. Rasheed was being Rasheed, sauntering over to the scorer’s table instead of listening to his head coach during timeouts. The Pistons were on the verge of packing it in without their star, Chauncey Billups, and heading home content with home court advantage at 2-2.
Then, we inexplicably fell asleep.
When you have a great team on the verge of throwing in the towel, you have to go right for the jugular. We just couldn’t close. Unfortunately, it’s a common theme in this series so far.
The Pistons, awakened by the Magic’s inability to make shots and by Orlando’s curious submission to suddenly play a half court slugfest, came to life. They went on a 15-0 run to tie the game at 70 going into the fourth.
The giant lead had evaporated. We let the Pistons off the hook. The momentum was all Detroit’s.
Give credit to the Magic in the fourth. They fought back from seven down thanks to Hedo Turkoglu, who tallied 13 of his 20 points in the fourth. But, we just couldn’t control Rip Hamilton (32) and Tayshawn Prince, who hit the winning bucket with 8.9 seconds to play.
Turk was amazing in the fourth. But once again, he comes up empty in a late game situation. He beat Boston and Chicago on buzzer beaters in the regular season but in this series he’s come up goose eggs. Did he get hit on the final play? Sure…But you’re not gonna get that call, especially against Detroit. I would have liked to have seen Hedo pull up from 10 feet. Better yet, I would have liked to have seen Jameer Nelson with the ball in his hands with a chance to win it.
What if…What if….We can replay this one over and over again.
We had the Pistons on the verge of calling it a night. We let ‘em off the hook. Detroit made plays with the game on the line. We did not.
Gotta go now…I’m headed to the bathroom for another Tums.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Thursday, May 8, 2008, 9:26 AM
YA GOTTA HAVE HEART
The Orlando Magic have showed some incredible resolve all season long. That's why Wednesday night's game three doesn't surprise me one bit.
Detroit, you are seeing a much different Magic basketball team this go-round.
The Magic pounded the Pistons in game three 111-86. Can we bottle the first and fourth quarters of this game? The Magic outscored Detroit 30-16 in the first and 38-17 in the final.
In that fourth, I must admit, my collar was getting tight. The Pistons had cut what was once an 18 point deficit down to just four going into the final period. Then, that resolve I mentioned kicked in!
Rashard Lewis began the fourth with a huge three to make it 76-69. It's a shot that kickstarted a whopping 11-0 surge that ended all Piston hope for a commanding 3-0 lead in this series. Now, this IS a series thanks to Rashard and his three friends.
One game after 6-21 from the field with six turnovers and four missed shots in the final three minutes, Rashard made amends in a monumental way. He scored a career played high 33 points on 11-15 from the field and 5-6 from beyond the arc. Rashard set the tone all night long with his aggressive drives and dead-eye shooting.
Dwight Howard adds a ho-hum 20 points, 12 rebounds and six blocked shots. Superman must have altered 15 of those Piston shots. We can ill afford to have him off the floor. Dwight played over 44 minutes for the second straight game.
Jameer Nelson continues to rise to the occasion in the playoffs as Jameer totaled 18 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Jameer's getting to the hole when he wants and he's defending his position better than ever.
Hedo Turkoglu got untracked in this series with eight of his 18 points in the fourth quarter, as Turk hit a couple of huge three-point daggers in the fourth.
A huge key to this series will be the status of Piston leader Chauncey Billups, who suffered a strained right hamstring in the first quarter. Piston coach Flip Saunders says that he expects Billups to play in Saturday's game four. But, it makes you wonder, even if Billups goes Saturday, will he be close to 100%?
Billups or no Billups, people continue to doubt the Orlando Magic....and the Orlando Magic continue to prove them wrong.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Friday, May 2, 2008, 10:41 AM
TALE OF THE SECOND ROUND TAPE
Magic fans, you wanted 'em...you got 'em!
For the third time in the last six years, the Magic will take on the Detroit Pistons in the NBA Playoffs.
Detroit has owned us over the last number of years. They've beaten us in 14 of the last 17 games. But don't get cocky, Piston fans. This Orlando Magic team is a much different club you'll face this go-round.
POINT GUARD: Jameer Nelson vs. Chauncey Billups
In the Philly series, Mr. Big Shot became the third leading scorer in Piston playoff history. He is the Pistons' all time playoff leader in three's made. Billups scares the heck outta me. He may have lost a quarter step over the last few years, but he still gets anywhere he wants on the floor and scores at will. Will this year be different? The critics (yours truly included) gave the advantage to Ford and Calderon in the last series. Ford and Calderon are now on summer vacation. Jameer is playing the best basketball of his career on both ends of the floor. Jameer was inspired by the first round diss. Here's more fuel for the fire!
EDGE: DETROIT
SHOOTING GUARD: Maurice Evans vs. Rip Hamilton
If Billups is fire, Rip is ice. Rip's the second leading scorer in Piston playoff history. He had 32 against us earlier this season. We couldn't guard him in last year's first round. But we have Rip's former teammate, Mo Evans, to chase him this year. At the very least, Mo's gonna make Rip work much harder than he did in last year's sweep.
EDGE: DETROIT
SMALL FORWARD: Hedo Turkoglu vs. Tayshawn Prince
Prince is a winner. Heck, the guy's been in the Eastern Conference Finals the first five years of his pro career. He's heady and he serves as the perfect compliment to the All Star backcourt. But Tayshawn has his hands full with Hedo. Turk needed the the R and R this week to get that calf strain right. Prince is one of the best defenders at his position, but, for some reason, Hedo gives Prince fits.
EDGE: MAGIC
POWER FORWARD: Rashard Lewis vs. Antonio McDyess
McDyess is a grizzled vet who fits in nicely with this squad. He's big, physical and will see time guarding and hacking Dwight. As usual, Rashard poses a big time matchup problem for Detroit. Mr. Max $ was worth his weight in gold in the Toronto series. Saturday night, Rashard shoots for his third consecutive double-double.
EDGE: MAGIC
CENTER: Dwight Howard vs. Rasheed Wallace
Wallace is a difficult matchup because of his versatility. Look for Rashard to guard him defensively. 'Sheed will be one of many bodying up to Dwight. He'll try to frustrate Dwight. He'll foul him hard and try to strip him of the ball. Superman became the first player since Wilt in 1972 to record three 20-20 games in the playoffs. He's playing the most determined basketball of his young career. Dwight will be tested physically and mentally.
EDGE: MAGIC
COACHES: Stan Van Gundy has had the midas touch all year. I don't see it stopping now. Flip Saunders gets a lot of flack, but the guy accumulated 59 wins this year, the second most wins in the NBA.
EDGE: MAGIC
PLAYOFF EXPERIENCE X-FACTOR: This Piston team has been to five straight conference title series and has won the Central Division in six of the last seven years. This team has played 100 playoff games the last five years. The Magic, during that span, have played 16 playoff games.
EDGE: DETROIT
PREDICTION: Since stumbling early vs. Philly, these Pistons are finally in a playoff rhythm. They have the experience factor going for them. Plus, they have home court. The Pistons were 34-7 at the Palace this season. But this homer loves the look of his team right now. Upset: MAGIC IN SIX!
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Thursday, May 1, 2008, 9:58 AM
MOTOWN BOUND?
We threw out a poll question on the air earlier this week...What team would you like to see in round two of the NBA Playoffs? Detroit or Philly?
Every single one of you claimed to want the Pistons!
I understand the sentiment. Magic fans are sick and tired of being a Piston punching bag.
Before this season, Orlando had made the playoffs in two of the last five years. Detroit ushered us out of both those appearances. In 2003, our Magic became a statistic after blowing a 3-1 series lead to Detroit. Last season, they swept us in four straight. As a matter of fact, going into this year, our Magic had dropped eight straight and 12 of the last 13 meetings to our Motown nemesis.
So, be careful what ya wish for, Magic fans. Sure, Detroit has shown a lack of zest vs. a young, athletic Philly team in round one. But, there's a reason why that Piston team finished with the second best record in the NBA. They're really good.
But, they are beatable!
The Magic went 2-2 vs. Detroit this year. As a matter of fact, two of the season's benchmark wins came vs. this team. On January 21 in Orlando, Rashard Lewis drained a jumper as time expired lifting us to a 102-100 victory. Back on February 19, we stormed out of the All Star break and battered the Bad Boys on their home court, 103-85.
That win was huge psychologically for this team because we proved to ourselves that we can not only beat the unbeatable foe....but we can destroy them in their backyard.
The keys to a Magic-Piston series? Here are just a few...
History tells us that we must somehow get our mitts around Detroit's All Star backcourt. In a 101-93 loss to these Pistons back on January 25, Rip Hamilton scored 32 points and Chauncey Billups had 21. Going back to last postseason's sweep, Billups and Rip had their way with us. But I love the way Jameer Nelson is playing on both ends of the court right now and remember, Grant Hill had trouble running around those screens set for Rip last year. Now, we've got Rip's former teammate, the hard-nosed Mo Evans, who will be shadowing Rip all series.
Sounds simple, but, we also have to hit our free throws. In light of what Greg Poppovich did to Shaq in the first round, you have to think that the Pistons are gonna test Dwight. Last year in game one, Dwight went 3-11 from the line. Our team missed 18 total free throws in losing that game 100-92. The Pistons will test us at the line.
Prediction? I'll save that for later when we know the outcome of the Detroit-Philly series.
In the meantime, just between you and me, I'll be packing my bags for the Motor City.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Tuesday, April 29, 2008, 9:51 AM
IT’S OVER….IT’S OVER
...It’s enough for us ole timers to get a wee bit misty eyed. Magic win game five 102-92. We’re into the second round for the first time in 12 years. There have been some nights over the last 12 years that I have wondered aloud, “Why do I seem to care more than the players do?” I wonder no more…..
…”There was a different demeanor from him”. That’s a quote from Coach Stan Van Gundy on Dwight Howard. That ‘demeanor’ translated into 21 points and 21 rebounds in game five. Make that three 20-20 performances in five first round games. You can drop the ‘child’ from the ‘Man-Child’ moniker. Superman arrived!
…Can’t help but think back to 2004 when yours truly, in the final days of the regular season, started the chant, “Three games to Okafor….Two games to Okafor…One game to Okafor.” If I were GM back then, I’d still be trying to get the tar and feathers off my backside today.
…Speaking of ’04, how about the play of Jameer Nelson in these playoffs? Jameer outplayed TJ Ford and Jose Calderon in the Toronto series. Don’t let Jameer fool ya. He heard the hype about Toronto having the point guard edge on us. He scored 12 points in a huge fourth quarter of the game four win. Then, in game five, he nails a monumental three to put us up 102-92 with 2:57 left. Jameer Nelson is coming of age.
…I have to admit that I was a bit shocked after Monday’s game five. I actually saw Coach Van Gundy smile! What a job this guy has done. From day one, he’s called for this team to be tougher and more accountable. Coach Stan’s team has played in the mirror image of its coach all year. I don’t know if there’s a higher compliment you can give a coach than that.
…The House was rockin’ like it was 1996 Monday night. Not an empty seat to be found. It was loud all game, but with 2:00 to play, I could sense the 12 years of frustration just boil over. Celebrate, Orlando! We have a present and a future.
…Keith Bogans doesn’t get a whole lotta pub. As a matter of fact, Coach Stan admitted after the game that he was ready to yank Bogans in the fourth quarter. Thank goodness he left him in there. Bogans nailed a couple of huge three point daggers in the fourth. The biggest the shot at the 5:00 mark to push a two point lead to 5, 87-82. Then, Bogans would put the cherry on top with another bomb with just over 2:00 to play to make it 95-84. You’d never know that Keith Bogans was playing in his first playoff series, would you?
…My two favorite chants from Magic fans on Inside Magic Monday night: “Canadian Bacon”.....and “Flop-ters….Flop-ters”
…How about the play of Rashard Lewis in this series? In game one, he shuts down Chris Bosh. In the final two games of the series he gets ya a couple of double-doubles. I guess Otis Smith knew what he was doing last summer after all, huh?
…If our second round opponent is nemesis Detroit, which I suspect it will be, beware Pistons! While I am in no way predicting a Magic victory, I will say this: This is not the team you swatted off your shoulder last year.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Monday, April 28, 2008, 9:22 AM
MAGIC WIN GAME FOUR
...Just got off the air, so forgive me in advance for any typos…My heart’s still pumpin’ a mile a minute!
…A huge victory…106-94…We needed incredible performances to win up there, and we got them. Let’s run ‘em down:
…Jameer Nelson: The Closer has now out played Toronto’s point guards in three of these four games. Jameer scored 12 of his 19 points in the fourth. He hit on ten straight points in the fourth after the Magic got down by three with 6:40 to play. He was on his back during one of the time outs due to the back spasm issue, and yet the little guy comes up huge. Jameer’s a gamer!
...Rashard Lewis: Mr. Max $ earned all of it in what I believe is his best performance of the season. Keep in mind that Rashard was 6-26 from the arc in the first three games but Rashard nailed a couple of three’s in that fateful fourth quarter. He would finish with 27 points, 13 rebounds (7 offensive), five assists and two steals. Rashard may be quiet, but his game was heard all over Canada Saturday.
…Hedo Turkoglu: How about Turk’s play in the fourth quarter? He hit a couple of big three’s in the fourth and finished with 10 of his 18 in the final period. All this after it looked like that Turk wanted to gift wrap the game to the Raptors. Early in the third, Turk would storm out of the locker room and give the ball away to Toronto five times in the first four minutes! But give credit to Coach Van Gundy. He left Turk in the game and Turk, as he always does, produced.
…Dwight Howard: He talked after game three how the Raptors wanted that game a lot more than his team. Saturday afternoon, there was no denying who wanted this game more. Dwight sets a team playoff record with eight blocked shots. He added 19 points and 16 rebounds. Toronto, don’t you dare tug on Superman’s cape again!
…It was about time! Since the first quarter of game one, the Magic had struggled mightily from beyond the arc. They were 6-22 through three quarters of game four. The conventional thought was that the three point slump couldn’t last forever. Well, it didn’t. The Magic would nail five daggers in that fateful fourth quarter (Jameer 2, Rashard 2, Hedo 1).
…Key to this win was the defense. We started running at their three point shooters. Jason Kapono scored just three points in the second half (12 total), and Jose Calderon finished with just two points on 1-7FG. Bosh got his playoff career high 39, but I believe that if you can control Kapono and Calderon, you win this series Monday.
…Orlando showed why it was the only NBA team to have a better road record than at home this season. We outscore them 33-21 in the fourth quarter to take a commanding three games to one lead in the series.
…Orlando, let’s sell out game five Monday night at 7:30 at Amway. Call 1-800-4NBA TIX. You can also pick up your tickets via blueandwhiteignite.com and via the Amway Arena Box Office. Time to close it out Monday night!
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Friday, April 25, 2008, 12:07 PM
DEEP THOUGHTS FROM GAME THREE
…Well, so much for the back court advantage, Magic fans. Our point guards got the better of the Raptors in O-town. Thursday night, a different story north of the border: Ford and Calderon combined for 39 points, 16 assists and 12 rebounds…Jameer, Keyon and Carlos? 16 points, eight assists, four rebounds. Ford set the table, but Calderon buried us with four timely three’s.
…We hope Jameer is gonna be OK. He got kicked in the back on a pick and roll in the second half. After the game, Jameer collapsed on his way to the locker room with a severe case of back spasms. The little guy is tough. Get well soon, Jameer.
…First priority at practice Friday: If you’re getting a screen at the top of the key from Dwight Howard, WAIT for the pick!
…Does Jason Kapono look at the basket before he shoots? We continue to give him slivers of daylight….He continues to drain bombs. He and Calderon are lights out right now.
…Chris Bosh scored his first point of the game with just under four minutes to play in the second quarter. The score at that time was 45-31. So much for the “you control Bosh, you control this series” theory. The NBA, Where Amazing Happens.
…”H-O-W-A-R-D…H-O-W-A-R-D…”Did you hear the Toronto crowd in game three? They even chanted “SUPERMAN S_ _ _ S!” Magic fans, remember that for game five Monday night at Amway Arena. Tickets are on sale right now for game five at blueand whiteignite.com or by calling 1-800-4 NBA-TIX.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Wednesday, April 23, 2008, 12:05 PM
DEEP THOUGHTS FROM GAME TWO
...First, I must throw props to you, the Sixth Man. Sunday, empty seats dotted the upper bowl end zones. Tuesday night, your fannies were in those seats. You were loud and made me proud. I held off in dissing Orlando sports fans because I wanted to see how you reacted in game two. You were rabid. You were electric. You had much to do with that Magic one point win.
…Dwight Howard is a beast! Superman becomes the first player since Kevin Garnett four years ago to notch consecutive 20-20 games in the NBA Playoffs. He had 29 points and 20 rebounds in game two. ESPN, TNT, you guys finally gonna take notice?
…”If I didn’t get hit, then I don’t know what anybody’s saying”. That’s a post game quote from Chris Bosh, who claimed he was roughed up by Dwight on a driving play with :23 to go and the Raptors down one. Dwight would make a key block on Bosh. Then, on the final play, Bosh decided to pull up from 16 feet and miss over Dwight’s big paw. Please, Chris, don’t start moanin’ about disrespect. WEIGHT ROOM!
…Toronto’s soft. Heck, we had seven dunks against these guys in the first quarter (35-18). Coach Sam Mitchell finally gave up trying to make his Raptors into his ole 1994 Indiana Pacers. Mitchell went to a small lineup early, and in turn, forced Stan’s hand in putting Dwight on Bosh defensively. I would be shocked if we see Rasho Nesterovic ever again. Even though we lead 2-0, Toronto’s got to feel as if it has created a little bit of mojo with that small lineup.
…Before this series began, many of us know-it-all media types gave the point guard edge to Toronto. Read the numbers and weep Raptor fans: TJ Ford…2-17 FG, 11 points, 11 assists. Jameer Nelson…13-23 FG, 42 points, 13 assists. Ford’s been outmatched by Jameer so far. I’d be shocked if we didn’t see Jose Calderon start vs. Jameer in game three.
…Both clubs can ill afford to have their two all star big men off the floor. Dwight played 44 minutes in game one….41 minutes in game two. Chris Bosh got 38 minutes in game one and 45 minutes Tuesday. If either Bosh or Dwight comes off the floor, their respective teams hold their breath ‘til their big fellas come back.
…We’ve outscored Toronto 78-41 in the first quarters of games one and two. Problem is, the Raptors have pounded us in second quarters 63-41.
...Former mob informant Bob Delaney would have needed a military escort, full body armor and a Sherman Tank to escape City Beautiful if Chris Bosh’s buzzer beating shot goes in. Delaney is one of the better NBA officials, but he has a bad habit for making theatrical calls at crucial moments of a game. Thus was the case Tuesday night when he whistled Keyon Dooling for a ridiculous offensive foul on an inbounds play with nine ticks left. CYO refs don’t even make that call!
…I realize this is easier said than done, but can we please put a GPS on Jason Kapono? Why do we leave him even for a split second? Kapono is shooting 67% from the field in the first two games. He’s nailed eight of his 12 three pointers. Kapono has 38 points off the bench.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Monday, April 21, 2008, 10:45 AM
DEEP THOUGHTS FROM GAME ONE
...For weeks, we watched an Orlando Magic team that was stuck in neutral. With virtually no chances of moving up or down in the standings, this team played out the string with ambivalence. All that pent-up energy poured out in the first quarter of game one vs. Toronto: a team record 43 points....they tied an NBA playoff record with nine three-pointers. Safe to say, our team was ready to erupt!
...25 points, 22 rebounds 5 blocked shots...Shaq-like numbers for Dwight Howard. We all know how talented Dwight is. But, the unbridled determination this kid showed in game one reminded us ole timers of a young Shaq. Dwight's lust for winning is catching up to the phenom's extreme talent.
...This was the best overall performance I have seen from Jameer Nelson in a Magic uniform! You have to love this kid's competitive fire. No doubt, Jameer heard "experts", like Anez Sez, opining that TJ Ford and Jose Calderon would get the best of him in this series. In game one, it was the other way around. Jameer set the tone very early with his aggressive play on both ends of the floor. I can't recall one time when the cat-quick Ford (1-9 FG, 5 points) broke Jameer down. This was Jameer Nelson at his best. This is what Jameer Nelson can become.
...Orlando's point guard spot in game one (Jameer and Keyon Dooling) combined to tally 34 points and 8 assists. Toronto's tandem wracked up 14 points and 14 assists. We know what we're gonna get out of our Big Three. But if we can get similar production out of our point guard spot, this team can beat anybody in the league.
...How about Coach Van Gundy putting Rashard Lewis on Chris Bosh in game one? Wow didn't see that comin'! I suspected Coach Stan would go with Hedo, who has a little more girth to his frame. But he sides with Rashard, who played his most inspired defensive game of the year. Rashard got up into Bosh's grill all game. He took away his dominant left hand dribble and made things difficult on the "Magic Killer". Bosh says he will be ready for game two. I wonder if Stan has something else up his sleeve?
...It was obvious that Dwight used the off days leading up to game one to work on his free throws. He nailed his first eight free throws Sunday and finished 9-11 from the line. You can bet your bottom dollar that the Raptors are thinking that the Rick Barry-like performance was a fluke.
...Let's not get cocky! Momentum is overrated in the playoffs. Each game is an entity unto itself. Heck, we ole timers remember the 1995 first round when the Magic would blow out the Celtics in game one by some 47 points. Game two saw the Celtics rally for a stunning 99-92 victory. We would close out the series in Boston, but the point is that the Magic have to keep the pedal to the metal. This Toronto team is very explosive and capable of stealing home court advantage in game two.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Friday, April 18, 2008, 1:56 PM
TALE OF THE TAPE
Point Guard
Jameer Nelson/Keyon Dooling/Carlos Arroyo vs. TJ Ford/Jose Calderon
...Both teams will platoon freely at the point guard spot. The Raptor duo of Ford-Calerdon combined on a 4.35-1 assist-to-turnover ratio this season. Calderon is tops in the league in assist-to-turnover and is fifth in the NBA in assists (8.3). Toronto point guards make winning basketball plays and don't make many mistakes. Orlando's point guard play has been spotty this season, though Jameer has been solid since the All Star Break. I truly believe that a huge key to a Magic playoff run is going to be Keyon Dooling. Keyon has post season experience. He also is our best on-ball defender at that spot and will be counted upon to contain Toronto's lethal pick and roll game.
Edge: TORONTO
Shooting Guard
Maurice Evans vs. Anthony Parker
...This is a match up of two relatively unheralded but effective players for their respective teams. Parker, a former Magic player, is long and lanky and is within shooting range as soon as he steps over half court. Mo Evans is a gamer. He's a two guard who does the grunt work. He's not the most polished offensive player but hits the offensive glass hard and is a stubborn defender.
Edge: EVEN
Small Forward
Hedo Turkoglu vs. Jemario Moon
...The rookie, Moon, has come outta nowhere to start 75 games this season. The kid's athleticism is scary. But Jemario will square off against a guy who's on the verge of becoming the NBA's Most Improved Player. Hedo is a two-time Eastern Conference Player of the Month and should have been an All Star. Turk has become our go-to-guy this season and is averaging career high's in every category. Moon's athleticsm is no match for Hedo's versatility.
Edge: MAGIC
Power Forward
Rashard Lewis vs. Chris Bosh
...I don't expect Rashard to check Bosh defensively. Look for that assignment to fall upon the shoulders of Hedo and Dwight. Bosh has strangled us over the years with his inside-out game. CB-4 had a couple of 40 point outings against the Magic over the last few years and just loves going up against Dwight Howard. Rashard was paid max dollars in Orlando for this time of year. He's been terrific this season. Rashard's second in the NBA in three's attempted and third in three's attempted. Rashard poses a serious match up problem for Toronto.
Edge: TORONTO
Center
Dwight Howard vs. Rasho Nesterovic
...Rasho, you have your hands full! As gaudy as Bosh's numbers are against Orlando, Dwight's numbers vs. Toronto have been grotesque vs. the Raptors. The fame Superman's attained by dawning the red cape in New Orleans back in February is nothing compared to the glory he will get when he succedes in the playoffs. Dwight has a long memory of last year's sweep at the hands of the Pistons and will not allow that to happen again. The Raptors will be physical with Dwight and will make him beat them from the free throw line. Can Dwight hit some big three throws in this series? I think he can....
Edge: MAGIC
My Pick: The last five years, the #3 seed has lost an opening round series just four times. It may happen out west this year (Spurs-Suns), but it ain't happenin' here in the east: MAGIC WIN IN SIX
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Tuesday, April 15, 2008, 9:31 AM
COME ON DOWN RAPTORS
Due to a Toronto win over the Heat and a Philly loss to Cleveland Monday, the Raptors secure the sixth seed in the East and a first round playoff match up with the Orlando Magic.
As much as they've attempted to prevent bulletin board material for Coach Stan Van Gundy's Magic in Toronto, it's obvious that the Raptors wanted us! The alternative would have been facing a seasoned and rested Detroit team in round one. Toronto is 1-3 vs. Detroit this season.
The Raptors are 1-2 vs. Orlando (Toronto's Chris Bosh did not play in the series finale) But don't let the record fool you. Toronto truly believes that this is its best possible playoff match up...and, quite frankly, history would indicate that it's hard to argue with that assessment.
Last season, the Raptors swept us, 4-0! Going into this season, they had beaten Orlando eight of the last ten.
The main reason for Toronto's temerity? Chris Bosh.
Bosh has averaged nearly 23 points per game in 13 career games vs. Orlando. That's Bosh's highest average against any NBA opponent. Bosh has scored at least 40 points twice against us. The first was a 41 point outburst last February. He dumped 40 on us a couple of months ago in Canada.
To say Bosh's blood races through his veins when he sees Dwight Howard's Magic #12 jersey is an understatement. Bosh is just a very difficult match up for Dwight because of his versatility. He can score inside and out. Coach Stan Van Gundy is gonna have to develop a game plan to contain Bosh, whether that be doubling him or even putting Hedo Turkoglu on him. Bosh plays with way too much confidence against us.
Conversely, the Raptors have had their hands full with D-12! In 14 career games vs. Toronto, Dwight has averaged 27 points. He had 37 and 15 vs. them this season.
Weeks ago, I said that I didn't want any part of the Raptors in the playoffs. Weeks later, if I had my druthers, I'd still take Philly over Toronto. But this has not exactly been a banner season NBA campaign in Canada.
Last year, the Raptors captured the Atlantic Division with 47 regular season wins. They would lose a first round series to New Jersey in six games. But the table was set for a Raptor rising in 2007-2008.
However, instead of stepping up this season, the Raptors have stepped back. Their second half has been dreadful. Going into their final regular season game, Toronto's lost 17 of their last 25.
This is a Raptor team that has beaten the likes of Boston, San Antonio and New Orleans on the road. But, this is the same team that has beaten two teams with winning records in their last 21 games. They've really struggled vs. sub .500 clubs.
Injuries to Bosh and point guard TJ Ford have certainly added to Toronto's inconsistency in a season that GM Bryan Colangelo has labeled "disappointing".
But these Raptors now feel as if they have new life and said 'disappointment' will no doubt turn to exuberance if the Raptors can pull off a first round win over our Magic.
There's no doubt about it: Toronto wanted us in round one.
Come and get it Raptors!
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Wednesday, April 9, 2008, 9:23 AM
REBOUND THAT BASKETBALL
One of the main concerns going into this season for the Orlando Magic was rebounding. But for the most part, this team has camouflaged that frailty...'til now.
Coach Stan Van Gundy made the call very early that he was going to side with the strength of his new team. Coach Stan decided to sacrifice some girth and toughness up front for more of a finesse lineup by pairing two small forwards, Hedo and Rashard, alongside center Dwight Howard.
Coach Stan rolled the dice hoping that Dwight, who when all is said and done will be one of the best rebounders ever, would dominate the glass and leave a few scraps here and there. The gamble has paid off. The Orlando Magic are knocking on the door of 50 victories. They lead the East in scoring. They are first in the NBA in three pointers made. The Magic are second in three's attempted. They're in the middle of the pack in rebounding statistics.
However, over the last few weeks, we're starting to see this team's lack of 'physicality' rare its ugly head.
In five of the last six games, the Orlando Magic have been outmatched on the glass. The Bucks out-rebounded the Magic 59-44. Milwaukee also stole 25 offensive rebounds from us. New Orleans pounded us on the glass (51-30) and beat us down with 21 offensive rebounds to our TWO! Cleveland got 18 offensive rebounds on the way to a 48-33 rebounding advantage. Even the woeful Knicks out-rebounded us 55-52 (17 offensive) Sunday night.
Of those six games, the Magic lost four of them.
Are the latest rebounding woes legitimately disturbing? Or, with their playoff fate decided long ago, is this team taking the pedal off the medal a bit?
Yes and Yes.
This team has not had to play on edge for a while now. But, with the playoffs approaching, this is undoubtedly a very disturbing trend.
We all know that the intensity is turned up tenfold come the post season. Every possession is crucial...Every shot, magnified...Every rebound, imperative.
How will the Magic react to the physical nature of the playoffs?
I hope they react better than they have the last few weeks.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Monday, April 7, 2008, 9:20 AM
A LITTLE LOVE FOR P-G
Bloggers jab at him.
Sports talk radio callers hit him below the belt.
Amway Arena fans throw haymakers at him.
Do me a favor: GIVE A LITTLE LOVE TO P-G!
With Brian Cook sidelined with the fractured knuckle, Pat has stepped into Cook’s place and played well. He had a season-high 13 points in the come from behind win over Cleveland Saturday.
Pat Garrity could very well play a key role off the bench for the Orlando Magic here late in the season and on into the playoffs.
I know…Pat’s not the fleetest of foot. He’s not the most athletic guy in the world. He’s undersized at his position. I realize that Pat is not your prototypical NBA player. To boot, his confidence level has gone belly up over the last number of years. Fan acrimony has certainly not helped Pat’s confidence. The angst in Amway Arena is palpable every time Pat throws a ball out of bounds or clanks a three point shot. That is why, I believe, Pat tends to play much better on the road than he does at home.
But, I believe, with your help, that Pat can help us once again!
Did you know that Pat Garrity is second on the Magic’s all time games played list? As a matter of fact, no player, with the exception of Nick Anderson (10) and Darrell Armstrong (9), has played more seasons for the Orlando Magic than Pat (9).
Also D-Y-K: Pat Garrity led the Orlando magic in three-point shooting for four consecutive seasons (1999-2003).
Pat Garrity will never be accused of dogging it... He’s one of the few players on this team who actually boxes out. He plays as hard as he can. He mixes it up under the boards. He always comes to the arena prepared to play.
Pat Garrity has longevity because he’s a pro’s pro. Through nine lean seasons and six head coaches, a couple of knee injuries and a bout with a sports hernia, not once has Pat griped, moaned or groaned. Not once has he embarrassed this town or this organization. Quite the contrary…
Pat gets it. He continues his outstanding work with Feed the Children. As a matter of fact, this past week, Pat handed out 25 pound boxes of food and personal care items to 400 local families. Pat also runs a 3-on-3 basketball tournament every year here in Orlando.
This is likely Pat’s swan song in Orlando. He is set to become a free agent after this season and his future in a Magic uniform and in the NBA is certainly uncertain.
I realize that this is a ‘what have you done for me lately’ result-oriented business. Pat realizes that too. But this guy is gonna give you everything he’s got. He’s gonna bring his hard hat and lunch pail to very game. Sometimes the result isn’t gonna be pretty, but it’s never for a lack of trying.
Pat gets it. He understands his place in the community. He comes to work hard each and every day and handles himself with class and dignity.
Isn’t all that worth a little love, Magic fans?
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Tuesday, April 1, 2008, 9:41 AM
DESPERATE TIMES?
"There's a slim chance that Tony comes back. I have to look at the longterm ramifications of Tony playing for us next season too."
That's what Magic GM Otis Smith told me recently when I asked him about the possibility of Tony Battie coming back this season from October rotator cuff surgery.
But desperate times call for desperate measures. The question that the Orlando Magic need to answer ASAP is: how desperate are we?
At Monday's practice, Magic reserve forward Brian Cook suffered a fractured knuckle on his right (shooting) hand after being swatted by Dwight Howard. Brian is expected to wear a soft cast over the next week and will likely miss one to two weeks of action. Brian will likely be back for the playoffs but there's no way of knowing how the injury will affect Cook come game one on April 20.
Now what? I get the feeling that the aforementioned "slim chance" just walked back in the door and the time line for Tony's return has been ratcheted up due to the injury to Cook.
Otis now says he'd be willing to think about Tony returning to the lineup in time for the playoffs, provided he can play a game or two in the regular season.
To know Tony Battie is to know that he is salivating over the possibility of coming back sooner than later. Let's not forget that Tony, in many respects, is the inspirational leader of this basketball team. Let's also not forget that Tony was a projected starter this season. Now, I don't believe that Tony's starting job would have lasted very long considering the fact that Hedo and Rashard have played so well together this season. Point is, Tony has been sorely missed and would be a welcomed addition for the postseason providing that he is fit to play.
But Otis is right on the money when he says he has to take Tony's future health into consideration. Right now, Tony's got full range of motion in the left shoulder. He's been working out for months now and has built back his strength.
The problem is that the shoulder has not been tested. Tony is a big. Bigs operate with their shoulders and hands. The NBA game is physical. The playoffs are physical to the tenth power. Gosh forbid, if Tony re-injures the shoulder, 2008-2009 would be in jeopardy for a 32 year old player who is in the twilight of his career.
We need a big guy to replace Brian Cook. Tony Battie is far from 100% but he is ready and willing to try.
I'm glad I'm not making this call. Otis, it's all yours brotha!
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Monday, March 24, 2008, 9:24 AM
WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES
The Orlando Magic have improved markedly from last season to this year.
Numbers never lie. Therefore, let's examine some of the stats:
At this point last season, Orlando's record was 33-39. This season, we're 46-26, and with ten games to play, this team is well on its way to 50-plus victories.
Last year's road record? 15-26. This season, the Magic are 23-13 away from home and with a win at Milwaukee Friday, this team would set a franchise record for road wins set by the 1995-96 team.
A year ago, the Magic went 26-26 vs. Eastern Conference teams. Against the East so far, Orlando is 32-13.
Last season, this team really struggled vs. teams they should have beaten. The Magic went 24-19 vs. sub .500 clubs. This season, the Magic have taken advantage of their opportunities vs. losing teams. Orlando is 27-10 vs. teams with losing records.
Scoring? Last year, the Magic scored 94.8 points per game. This season? 104.7 points per game.
Three point shooting? We all know that's a no contest. This year's Magic team is setting all sorts of records. This team leads the NBA in three point attempts and is second in three's made. This Magic team has stroked nearly 18-hundred three's, making 38.6% of them. Last year, this team shot just 962 three's, making 35.6% of them.
So, what do the numbers tell us? Well, what they tell me is that General Manager Otis Smith has done exactly what he sought out to do last May. Otis has created a culture of winning.
He's done it with a head coach in Stan Van Gundy, who's had a midas touch all year. He's done it with free agent pickup Rashard Lewis, who, even though he's played out of position, has been solid all season. He's done it by giving Hedo Turkoglu the opportunity to become all he could be. Allowing Grant Hill and Darko Milicic to walk in free agency, Otis added by subtraction. Dwight Howard's game has flourished in year #4 due, in large part, to the chemistry around him.
Is this Magic team a finished product? No...There's still improving to be done.
Point is, we're now on a winning trackl! The Orlando Magic are on track to win this season, and for many years to come.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Thursday, March 20, 2008, 11:17 AM
WHO DO YOU WANT?
Right now, http://580wdbo.com/features/ScottSez.html you can vote on just what team you would like to face in round one of the NBA Playoffs.
Would you like to see the Washington Wizards? The Toronto Raptors? The Philadelphia Seventy-Sixers come round one?
I love that this team believes it can challenge Detroit for the two seed, but I just don't see us making up that big a deficit.
Now, keep in mind, we take nothing for granted. The Orlando Magic have not won a playoff series in 12 long, long, long years. Heck, we haven't won a playoff game in five seasons. So, instead of looking ahead to a potential showdown with Detroit in round two, let's examine the three first round possibilities....
Magic-Toronto....This is the match up I fear most. Why? The Raptors have a very good point guard and they have Chris Bosh. Bosh, who has been sidelined since February 29 with a sort right knee, has singlehandedly beat down the Magic over the years. We just have no one to guard this guy. Unlike the rest of the league, Bosh seems to thrive on the match up with Dwight Howard. Toronto went 2-9 with Bosh on the sideline. Bosh's return might best for us in the long run. (MAGIC IN 7)
Magic-Washington....The Wizards are sneaking up to that five spot, thanks to a recent Raptor swoon. All Star Caron Butler has re-joined Antawn Jamison in the starting lineup after being out with a hip injury. Word is that Gilbert Arenas is on his way back soon after early season knee surgery. Will the Hibachi have enough time to heat up or will he go the way of the Easy Bake Oven? Washington is a scary offensive club, but even with Arenas, the Wizards don't guard consistently. (MAGIC IN 5)
Magic-Sixers....Philly's young, athletic and quick. They have won four straight and 16 of their last 20 games for a reason. Andre Miller would be a handful for the Magic because he's big and strong is able to post up our smallish point guards. Miller's killed us this season and so has Louis Williams, who comes off the bench and heats up like the ole Microwave. Igoudala is a nightmarish match up, but Turk has handled him pretty well this season. Samuel Dalembert gets the Blue Flu when he sees Dwight on the schedule. (MAGIC IN 5)
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Monday, March 17, 2008, 12:43 PM
WE GET NO RESPECT
The Orlando Magic have transformed into the Rodney Dangerfield of the NBA.
You know what? That's just fine with me.
The 2007-2008 Orlando Magic have already clinched a playoff spot. They're on the cusp of capturing the Southeast Division title. They're well on their way to 50-plus victories for the first time in 12 years.
The Magic sport the most dominant low presence in the game today, a guy who I believe should be an MVP candidate in Dwight Howard. Orlando's Hedo Turkoglu has developed into a guy I consider the most versatile player in the Association. Rashard Lewis is a nightmarish match up for any opponent. Coach Stan Van Gundy should, at the very least, be considered for the NBA Coach of the Year Award.
Curiously, no one outside Orlando gives this team its just due. I can't quite figure out why?
We all know about Kevin Garnett's recent comment about Boston, Detroit and Cleveland being the only three contenders in the conference. Someone needs to tell the Big Ticket that our Magic have beaten his C's twice. We've toppled the mighty Pistons two times. So far, we've split with the Cavs.
But KG is not the only source of the disrespect. Look around. It's everywhere.
Heck, even our coach's sibling, analyst Jeff Van Gundy, recently gave his bro's team less than a ringing endorsement. Jeff ripped our back court and said he didn't think the Magic would advance deep into the playoffs. Stan now knows how Abel felt when Cain whacked him back in the day!
I don't remember the last internet NBA Power Poll that had the Orlando Magic in the top ten teams in the league.
National TV? Fuggetaboutit! ABC, ESPN and TNT have treated the Orlando Magic as if we have a serious case of halitosis down here in Hooterville.
But, you know what? All the dissing....all the ignoring...all the criticisms have built a residue in Orlando. It's a residue that's formed a big ole chip on the Magic's collective shoulder. Every Magic player is well aware of the fact the entire league believes that this team is a fluke. To a man, they are angry about the lack of respect and seem to be aggravated by it.
I am reminded of that Rodney Dangerfield joke: "I told my psychiatrist that everyone hates me. He said I was being ridiculous--everyone hasn't met me yet."
Keep hatin' NBA! I love the fact that this team is ticked off. Playoffs here we come.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Wednesday, March 5, 2008, 11:47AM
TURK THE TERRIFIC
You'd be hard pressed to identify a more versatile player in the NBA than Hedo Turkoglu.
I'm talking guys who can dribble, pass, score, rebound, defend, and shoot…guys who can sell tickets and peddle popcorn and peanuts on a given night.
I have wracked my little brain trying to come up with some names: Dirk, KG, LeBron, Marion…
There may be others to add to that list. But here's my point: I truly believe that Hedo Turkoglu has developed into the most versatile player in the NBA.
The 6-10 Hedo can legitimately play four positions on the court. Who knows, we give him some goggles and a hook shot, he might even take over Dwight’s spot on the low post!
He can handle the rock with both hands. Hedo loves driving to his left, but at times he'll cross you over, tie your shoes, powder your nose and finish at the hole with either hand.
Turk has the most feathery shooting touch of any big man this side of Dallas.
Hedo's one of the best passers on the team. Remember the guy who threw that lob to Dwight Howard in the big win over the Spurs last year? Yup...Hedo!
The two areas I have seen marked improvement this year from Hedo are rebounding and defense.
Ask guys like Paul Pierce, Richard Jefferson and Andre Igoudala about Hedo's defense this season. He's shut down all three of those stars and many more! In past years, Hedo's been allergic to the defensive side of the court. This year, he's taking the challenge and having fun defending. .
Hedo's averaging a career high 6 rebounds per game this year.
Turk has been clutch as well. He’s among the league leaders in fourth quarter scoring, averaging 6.5 points in final stanzas. He's had 10-plus fourth quarter points 13 times.
He's also provided his share of late game heroics. He buzzer-beat the Bulls on New Year's Eve. He sent Boston to a national tv loss with a last second shot and hit free throws with 2 seconds left to win in Philly last month.
So, go ahead, take your best shot. Name a more versatile player in the NBA than Hedo Turkoglu!
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Scott Anez Golf 4 Kids Scramble
The Golf for Kids Scramble is a fundraising event benefitting Destiny Foundation of Central Florida. All proceeds raised will be used to ensure low income children in our community to have access to nutritious foods, health care and social services that will help build healthy bodies, minds and prepare them for a bright future.
A Note from WDBO's Scott Anez…
I would like to invite you to my first annual Scott Anez Golf 4 Kids event to benefit the Destiny Foundation of Central Florida coming up on May 19 at MetroWest Golf Club in Orlando.
What attracted me to the Destiny Foundation is the fact that they’re not just helping the working poor of Central Florida. They are empowering people as well!
The Destiny Foundation is less about handouts and more about helping people help themselves.
Every day people are walking into that building on Michigan Ave. hopeless. They walk out of the building with hope…hope for a better life for themselves and their children.
Unfortunately, the innocent victims in the vicious cycle of poverty today are the kids.
Under the Desinty Foundation umbrella falls: the Greater Orlando Food Outreach, which serves over 17-hundred families each week, the Compassion Outreach Center, the largest social-service Access Center in Florida, and the Compassion Children’s Clinic.
The Compassion Children’s Clinic is a free children’s medical clinic for uninsured and underinsured kids in our community. It’s operated by a team of volunteer doctors and nurses who see children for much-needed physicals and basic sick visits. Prescription assistance, follow-up care and insurance application assistance is provided to each family that visits the clinic.
That’s just an example of the difference the Destiny Foundation is making in our community. With your help, Destiny will continue to help those most in need, the children!
Thank you and I hope to see you on May19!
For more details: http://580wdbo.com/cgi-bin/info.cgi?type=event&id=2569862
Posted by Scott Anez, Friday, February 29, 2008, 9:51 AM
COOK HEATING UP
Back on November 20, forward Trevor Ariza was dealt to the Lakers for Brian Cook and Maurice Evans.
In January, in this very column, I questioned the trade. After all, Trevor was our best on-ball defender last season. He's young. He's got tremendous upside. He's a great athlete.
On December 20, I wrote: "Brian Cook, so far, has been slow to adapt to any sort of role here in Orlando. He just has not been effective. Offensively, he's forcing three's. Defensively and on the boards, he's been soft."
Fast forward to today and need I dare say that the early season trade now favors the Orlando Magic?
Amid whispers of chronic lower extremity issues, Ariza broke his right foot in January and has been out of the Laker lineup since.
Maurice Evans has since moved into Orlando's starting lineup and has been solid. Mo's numbers are less than gaudy, but his defensive toughness and explosive athleticism have stabilized the Magic's shooting guard spot.
But the linchpin of that early season deal was, and still is, Brian Cook. He was brought to Orlando to give this team a much needed big body who would spread the floor and hit the three.
That's exactly what Brian Cook is doing lately.
It would appear that his customary showing on the DNP-CD list is over. Coach Van Gundy is finally to the point where he's comfortable making Cook a permanent fixture off the bench.
Percentage-wise, Cook is the Magic's best three point shooter at 46%. Last Sunday, Cook ignited his team on a 15-2 run to begin the fourth quarter as he scored 11 points on three-three bombs in that game-deciding surge as the Magic beat the Kings.
Cook has also showed signs of becoming more aggressive on the boards. We're gonna need much more of that as we head toward the playoffs.
Defensively, he still has a ways to go. When Brian moves his feet as quickly as his hands, he and the Magic will be better for it. In that win over the Kings, Brian piled up three personal fouls in the span of about 4 minutes of game action.
But, looking back at that November trade, sure, we surrendered a promising young player. But the Magic got two-for-one. Mo Evans has become our starting shooting guard. Brian Cook is starting to pay dividends with his three point shooting and aggressiveness under the hoop.
Advantage: Magic.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Sunday, February 24, 2008, 1:23 PM
DWIGHT OR AMARE?
After his Phoenix Suns’ win over Boston Friday night, new Sun Shaquille O'Neal had this to say:
“Amare Stoudemire is the best big man in the game right now, period, bar none. I didn’t know he was that good, but talking to him and watching him play, he’s the best big man in the game at 25. I mean that. I’m not just saying that to pump him up.”
Over the years, it’s been astonishing how Shaq’s rhetoric has been altered depending on which jersey he’s worn.
In L-A, he called Kobe Bryant the best player on the planet. While he was with the Heat, Shaq labeled Dwayne Wade the best player in the league. Which one is it Diesel?
Well, Shaq, we here in Orlando utterly disagree with that ridiculous statement!
22 year old Dwight Howard is better than 25 year old Amare Stoudemire now, and Dwight will be much better than Stoudemire in the future.
Let’s get the tale of the tape:
Amare: 23.6 points…58.4%FG….9.3 rebounds….2.3 blocks
Dwight: 21.8 points…60.4%FG…An NBA-best 14.6 rebounds…2.4 blocks.
OK, Shaq, I’ll give you the fact that Amare is scoring more points per game. But, if Dwight had Steve Nash throwing him the ball, he’d average 30!
Dwight’s 200 dunks (Amare’s second at 127) by far and away lead the league…Dwight was the NBA’s Eastern Conference Player of the Month for November and December…Amare: zero Player of the Month honors this season….Dwight leads the NBA in double-doubles with 48… Amare has half that many (24)…Dwight has 12 20-20 games in his career. Amare has 3!
Dwight Howard is much more durable than Stoudemire as well. Dwight’s played in 303 consecutive games …Amare’s missed a total of 109 games the last four and a half seasons.
Dwight’s bigger and stronger than Amare…He’s more consistent than Stoudemire….and, Dwight’s prettier!
Shaq, you stand corrected. Dwight Howard is the best big man in the game, period, bar none.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Tuesday, February 22, 2008, 10:07 PM
DEADLINE WINNERS AND LOSERS
Man, my head's still spinnin' post the NBA Trade Deadline. I still am coming to grips with the three team deal shipping Adam Haluska and Sergei Lishouk to Houston. You talk about a blockbuster!
All kidding aside, I don't remember a more active trade season involving so many marquee players.
From the Orlando Magic's standpoint, GM Otis Smith stood pat. He would have liked to have dealt for a big, but when San Antonio honed in on Kurt Thomas, Otis decided to let other GM's have their fun.
I agree. Why make a change for the sake of change? This team is in first place on its way to a #3 seed and home court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.
With just 26 games left, you don't want to make a deal that will totally alter a roster that's gotten you to this point. Even though the Magic have some attractive expiring contracts, you don't want to put yourself in an awkward position by taking back a hefty contract for a guy you're not enamored with. I didn't see anybody out there who caught my fancy.
There were plenty of teams that did revamp their rosters at or near the deadline. Here are my winners and losers
WINNERS
Los Angeles Lakers...I am still trying to figure out how Mitch Kupchak pickpocketed Pau Gasol from Memphis. It's a deal that could vault the Lakers to the NBA Finals this season.
Miami Heat...I know. How can a team with the worst record in the NBA be viewed as a winner, right? But, the Heat rid themselves of the Big Albatross, his attitude and his daunting contract. In doing so, Miami pairs Wade with Marion and will likely get a top pick in the 2008 NBA Draft. It's not gonna take long for the Heat to rebuild. Thanks Phoenix!
Atlanta Hawks...It's a deal that flew under the radar, but prying Mike Bibby out of Sacramento is a deal that, I believe, will propel the Hawks into the playoffs for the first time in ions this season. Atlanta's struggling at the moment, but once Bibby gets settled, he'll be the perfect compliment to Joe Johnson in that lineup.
San Antonio Spurs...No mega-deals here, but very quietly the reigning champs are allowing the Lakers and Suns to grab the headlines. Very quietly, they've won four straight games. Very quietly, they just got Tony Parker back and trade for quality veteran big man Kurt Thomas. Don't sleep on the champs!
LOSERS
Phoenix Suns...Seeing what the Lakers did in landing Gasol, the Suns sold their soul in trading Marion for Shaq. This was purely a knee-jerk reaction to the Gasol deal. The Phoenix Suns are about to find out two things: 1. Shawn Marion was under-appreciated. 2. The Big Cactus is over-the-hill.
Dallas Mavericks...The Jason Kidd deal was a bad deal for the present and the future for the Mavs. Five years ago, I pull the trigger. Not now. Jason Kidd is 36 years old and is slowing fast. You just don't mortgage the future in giving up on a point guard in Devin Harris for a guy who just cannot keep up with the better point guards in the league (see Kidd's last game vs. Chris Paul).
Cleveland Cavaliers...Do I detect a hint of desperation here? This deal, to me, is all about GM Danny Ferry feeling heat from LeBron to make some sort of change. But a total overhaul this late in the season? Is this a deal that makes the Cavs better? I don't think so...The linchpin in that 3 team 11-player swap is Ben Wallace. Ferry's hoping to rejuvenate Ben by playing alongside LeBron. Ben's apathetic play this year tells me otherwise.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Tuesday, February 19, 2008, 9:03 PM
DUNKIN' DWIGHT A SAVIOR
In recent years, interest in NBA All Star Weekend's Slam Dunk Contest has waned. Not only have the league's prime time players taken a pass, but, the contest has lost much of its luster because, frankly, we see these dunks on a nightly basis in the NBA. These dunks have become all too common. The onetime crown jewel of the weekend had become stale. The thrill was gone.
Thanks to our Mighty Dwighty, the thrill is back!
I am not easily awed. But I have to tell you I jumped outta my chair on each and every one of Dwight Howard's eye-popping dunks Saturday night in New Orleans.
All four dunks were, and should have been, perfect 10's.
If I had to pick my personal favorite, it would be dunk #1. I am convinced that Dwight Howard is the only person on the face of the planet who could have pulled off this stunt. He starts from behind the basket. He throws the ball off the back of the backboard, and in one fell swoop, reaches under the board with his left hand and dunks it home. Gerald Green, Jamario Moon, Rudy Gay: thanks for comin' and have a nice trip home. Game over! 50.
In Dwight's second and perhaps most memorable slam, D-12 whisks off his Magic jersey only to uncover an appropriate Superman shirt. The crowd goes nuts. Teammate Jameer Nelson brings out the red cape and Superman proceeds to leap a tall building in a single bound. Jameer alleys from back of the baseline. Dwight oops. He not only oops, he literally heaves the rock down through the bucket as he towers over the rim. 50.
In Dwight's third slam, which displayed incredible coordination, he runs, jumps, taps the ball left-handed off the backboard, then slams with his right. Unbelievable! 50.
For his grand finale, Dwight could have merely shot a free throw grandma-style and gotten a 50! But Dwight goes for the jugular. He sets up a little 'Magic' mini-hoop on the corner of the backboard. Jameer sets the ball in hoop. Dwight leaps up, takes the ball, and slams it home. Crowd goes wild. 50.
Let the coronation begin.
It was one of those seminal Dunk Contest moments, akin to the Jordan-Wilkins duel in 1988, Dee Brown pumpin' up his Reeboks in '91 and Vince Carter struttin' his stuff in 2000.
Dwight Howard is a freak of nature. I don't know of any other big man in the history of the game who has possessed such incredible athleticism, strength, size speed and style. Dwight was plenty popular before Saturday night. That popularity will now be raised to the roof not only here in Orlando but across the globe because of what he pulled off Saturday night.
The NBA Slam Dunk Contest is now officially off life support thanks to the efforts of Orlando's Superman, Mighty Dwighty!
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Friday, February 13, 2008, 10:08 AM
STAN'S THE MAN....DWIGHT'S RIGHT
So, have you taken sides in what's become a very public disagreement between Orlando Magic Head Coach Stan Van Gundy and All Star center Dwight Howard?
I have. I am on Stan's side. I am also standing with Dwight! How's that for being politically correct?
I admire the hudspah of Coach Van Gundy, who benched his star center for nearly two minutes of a key fourth quarter stretch during Monday's loss to Cleveland. After the game, the coach called out his stud center, saying that there's a "little bit of a conflict" and that the two are "not on the same page".
Stan wants Dwight to get more defensive. "I think his priorities need to be defense and rebounding. His focus is on the offensive end. He gets discouraged when he doesn't get the ball."
The numbers prove that the coach is right on the money.
The Magic are 22-3 when Dwight blocks three-plus shots. In an even more staggering statistic, Orlando is 10-2 vs. winning teams when Dwight records 3-plus blocks...This team is 1-12 vs. over .500 clubs when Dwight blocks less than three shots.
In the last three losses on the current five game home stand, Dwight has ONE blocked shot. In those defeats, the Magic surrendered 107 points in a loss to Dallas. We gave up 117 points in a loss to the Lakers. We allowed the Cavs to score 118 points Monday night.
Stan is absolutely right. When Dwight defends, blocks shots and rebounds, this team wins.
But ya know what? I see Dwight's point too!
No question about it, Dwight must get more defensive. He's well aware of that. But, I've been around long enough to know how this game works. That leather Spalding is a 'magic pill'. Big guys, especially, who get ample touches of said 'magic pill' tend to play harder, tougher, better. Amazing how that works!
The Orlando Magic have done plenty right this season. But one of the things I'd love for this team to do more of is to throw Dwight a bone. Pass him the ball in fourth quarter! I don't have the stats of how many touches or points Dwight has in the final periods of games this season, but I can tell you with a great degree of confidence that those numbers are underwhelming.
Dwight Howard is on his way to becoming the most dominant player in the game. The guy's working his tail off each and every time down the court to get low post position. It's human nature to get discouraged when you're working your tail off, getting pounded each and every night, only to have your teammates look the other way. He's proved that he can hit his free throws in crunch time. Throw him the ball!
If we do that, I guarantee you, the blocked shot totals will start to go up again. The wins will pile up again...and Dwight and Stan will live happily ever after.
Anez Sez is solely the opinion of Scott Anez and does not reflect the views of the Orlando Magic or the NBA.
Posted by Scott Anez, Friday, February 8, 2008, 9:15 AM
PLAYOFFS COACH STAN?
Go ahead. Take a gander at the standings. Your Orlando Magic are running away with the Southeast Divison.
Going into Friday's action, the Magic lead the Southeast by six and a half over the fading Washington Wizards, who have lost five consecutive games. That lead may just be expanding soon because the battered and bruised Wiz begin a four game western road trip at Denver Friday. They'll visit Phoenix, Golden State and t
