October 5, 2007

Patrick O'Bryant looks to be playing with a renewed sense of motivation thus far in training camp. (photo: Jordan Murph)

INTERVIEW TIME
The Warriors have several new players on the team this season, and I look forward to getting to know each and every one of them. Earlier today, I had the opportunity to sit down with newcomer Austin Croshere, who seemed like a real good guy. To listen to the interview, click here.

NIGHT PRACTICE
Thursday night’s practice was a controlled series of scrimmages that started with 2-on-2 games, and worked its way up to 5-on-5. From my chair, Patrick O’Bryant is working with a new combative spirit and he looks to be improved to the point where you’ll be able to see results in the box score. Kelenna Azubuike also looks good and aggressive, while Al Harrington has shown up in great shape – he simply took over in one of the half-court sessions last night.

PROJECTIONS
I know there has been some chatter about John Hollinger’s proclamation that Marco Bellinelli will be a bust and will be a foreign version of Adam Morrison. First of all, I don’t think we can close the book on Morrison just yet. Secondly, Marco has yet to play a real NBA game. I will say this, in a league where pure shooters are coveted, any player with Marco’s range could be around for a long time.

HAWAII
The weather today will bring trade wind showers with highs in the 80s. This is truly one of my favorite places to visit and I am extremely lucky and grateful to be here.

ANOTHER CHAT
I conducted an interview with Al Harrington recently. To find out what Al did this past off-season, click here.

IDLE THOUGHT
Baseball is the only sport that does not have any sort of instant replay. I know they want to keep the human element in there, but there have recently been a number of close calls that would warrant at least a second look (i.e. the play at the end of the Padres-Rockies game on Monday night). Isn’t the idea to get it right?

Not everybody agrees with a certain national columnist that Marco Belinelli will be a sure bust. (photo: Jordan Murph)

MAILBAG

QUESTION
Hey Tim,
With the current roster, will the W's have a post presence in the offense?
G

ANSWER
G,
I think that the development of Biedrins, combined possibly with Patrick O'Bryant and Brandan Wright, will give the Warriors a stronger inside game this year. To be fair, they still need a better post game for sure and definitely need someone to rebound the basketball.
Thanks and aloha,
Tim

QUESTION
Hello Tim,
I've been a big fan of the Golden State Warriors for some time and last year when we reached the playoffs, I was so exited that I just couldn't hide it. And then we eliminate Dallas -- it was a great season for us. This year with Sidney Moncrief I'm hoping that our shooting percentage will improve. And I want to ask you: Will the Warriors sign Baron Davis to a contract extension?
Thanks,
Dani

ANSWER
Dani,
Sidney is working with the team and charting their progress with their free-throw shooting and general shooting habits. He is detail oriented, dedicated to their improvement and brings with him the experience of a former NBA star. I am optimistic that the Warriors will improve this year in that category. As far as Baron goes, both sides have agreed to not talk contract during the season, plus Baron has another year left following this one. He will be fine and if he is healthy, the Warriors will be, too.
Aloha,
Tim

UPDATE:

BONUS QUESTION
Tim,
How does Baron look as I am worried about his wear and tear??
Fred, Alameda

ANSWER
Fred,
We asked Head Coach Don Nelson how his star guard is looking in the first few days of camp. Listen to his answer here.
Hope that helps,
Tim

KEEP THOSE E-MAILS COMING!!! MAHALO!!!