Now the royal flames of Pompeii bless all our senses

There are 4 minutes to go between the Magic and the Celtics. The Magic have the ball and, if we're being honest, we can admit we all know what's about to happen. The Magic will stand around the three point line while Dwight sets picks for every member of the Magic, 4 members of the Celtics, both head coaches, 6 ushers and a beer vendor. In the end, either we'll jack up a contested three, or Hedo will drive into 4 defenders and throw the ball up without ever looking at the basket. And I know this, and you know this. We know it because we've just watched it happen.

On 6 consecutive possessions.

And I shouldn't need to tell you that it happened again and again that night. The Magic scored 14 points in the 4th and only made 3 FGs the entire quarter. As in, one more FG than 2. That's embarrassing.

It got so bad that with under a minute to go, I got a text message from a friend of mine in Connecticut that simply read: "The Magic's offense blows," and I couldn't really disagree with it.

The Magic offense is a conundrum: an offense full of quality scorers who can't create a shot for themselves or anyone else. Rashard Lewis can play the post but seems afraid to be a go to post player in the 4th. Dwight Howard seems ready to be a go to scorer in the 4th from the post, but no one will give him the ball in the last 18 minutes of games. Hedo thinks he can take people off the dribble, but anyone who has watched him play this year could attest to that being untrue. Rafer Alston can't finish at the rim. Courtney Lee is a rookie.

In the end, the Magic don't have anyone who can, when defenses tighten, can take their man off the dribble and create instant offense, be it for himself or his teammates.

Except one.


This is where Jameer Nelson is missed the most.

Nelson had proven time and time again throughout his career that, when motivated to, he can penetrate on any point guard in the league. That ability to penetrate, combined with his incredibly high FG% on jumpshots made him an absolutely awesome force in the 4th quarter on ISO plays. Play off him, he'll hit 20 footers all day. Crowd him, and he'll walk up, down over and all into the paint like you weren't even there. And if he gets to the paint and help comes, the Magic have a small army of shooters eagerly waiting for the ball.

And there was also this guy in the middle named Howard waiting for rebounds/alley-oops.

That's all I could think about watching those last few minutes against Boston:

Watching as Derek Fisher repeatedly backed off Nelson, only for Jameer to bury jumper after jumper in his face.

Remembering how Nelson spent so much time going into the paint against the Raptors in last year's playoffs, you'd have thought he was investing in real estate there.

I thought about his clutch shots earlier in the season, his constant creating during the 4th quarters when the Magic's offense would bog down. How he'd create wide open looks for Lewis and Turkoglu. How he'd find Courtney Lee slashing for midrange jumpers. How when it got too bad, he'd just take it to the hole himself.

And then I thought: "Oh sweet God, we just turned the ball over again."

Get well soon, Jameer.

TPASTBM reacts to the Rafer Alston Trade

Well, we here at TPASTBM have consensus on viewing the trade for Rafer Alston as a big win for the Orlando Magic. Here are the reactions from some of our contributors:





The Nickel Steak:
It's hard to take seriously the notion that any trade that works on an internet trade checker is seconds from happening, which most of the internet community seems to buy into. But it's the same logic that makes this trade so strange.

The Magic gave up as close to nothing as humanly possible and got a serviceable point guard who was, at the time, starting for a playoff team. He'll be a decent starter for the remainder of the year and he'll give the Magic a very good rotation at the 1 next season when Jameer is healthy. And it cost Brian Cook and a late first round pick, and if the way teams acted at this deadline is an indication, the Magic will be able to buy as many picks as they want this year if they're willing to spend, and if the Magic weren't willing to spend, then the pick had no value anyway.

I still don't understand how this happened.

Jackie Moon:
While Rafer Alston is no Jameer, I love this deal. Replacing Jameer without giving up a core player or taking on a bad contract shows Otis is growing as a GM. Alston is legitimate starting veteran NBA PG who already knows Stan's system. Plus his contract expires next year and is only guaranteed for $2.5 million. So once he gets done helping us continue our goal of competing for a championship, his contract becomes a valuable trade asset this off season should we choose not to keep him as a backup.

Maxwell Effort:
I really thought the whole "Otis working the phone" thing was a ploy to make the fans feel like he tried but holy heck was I shocked when he pulled this off. Starting caliber point guards on playoff teams are usually not available at the deadline. I compare my feelings to finding a $20 bill in your pocket a week after washing your jeans. Totally unexpected yet awesome at the same time and always puts a smile on your face. I have more Magic pep in my step this morning and that is a good thing!

The Big Train:
I like this deal, not so much because it puts us once again on the level of Boston and Cleveland, because it doesn't. But rather what it does for this team next year. Jameer will be starting again with Alston as the backup PG... A drastic upgrade over Anthony Johnson. Second, this allowed the Magic to get rid of Brian Cook's contact - a player option of 3.5 million next year - without taking back a drastically larger one (Alston is slated to make $5 million next year). As for the first round draft pick, in a weak draft a late first round pick isn't really a loss. Finally, this does not throw a wrench in the process of resigning Tuck when he opts out this summer. I will miss Adonal though....

The OCTB:
Although I am excited about the trade and feel that it should give a boost to this season’s potential, I have to point out the irony that two or our most discussed trade pieces – Keith Bogans and Brian Cook – were both traded for point guards and because of an injury. Many Magic fans were hoping that those players could have been used to add bulk in the frontcourt.

But no one can predict these injuries and it speaks well of Otis Smith that he effectively used those assets to fill a need. We really only sacrificed a low first rounder in a weak draft. Bogans and Cook were likely gone in the offseason anyway.

Jareth Cutestory:

The Morning After...

Otis Smith and the Magic were able to make a move before yesterdays trade deadline, acquiring playground legend Rafer Alston from the Houston Rockets in a three team deal. Outgoing for the Magic are a '09 first round draft pick, Brian Cook, Mike Wilks, and future politician Adonal Foyle.

Let's see what the internet has to say:

• First, Jameer Nelson had his season ending shoulder surger yesterday.
• Ken Burger over at CBS Sportsline noted that Orlando was the only team in contention that made and sort of serious move yesterday.
• David Aldridge called the move "brilliant" over at NBA.com.
• Johnny Ludden over at yahoo forgot that Rafer played for SVG in Miami.
  
• Former Magic man Brian Cook was disappointed Orlando didn't give him a chance.
• The Sentinel's Magic blog argues that Otis is starting to come into his own as an NBA GM.
• Schmitz has the lowdown on how while Jameer was getting his shoulder done by the famous Dr. James Andrews, Otis was getting the Alston deal done.
• Bianchi writes that this deal will end up better than that last Houston/Orlando trade.
• John Denton of the Florida Today said something had to be done considering the PG play as of late.
• Here is the Houston Chronicle's perspective on the deal.
  
• ESPN's Jon Barry declaired the Orlando trade a winner.
• Hollinger gave the trade grade for the Magic a 'B'.
• Chad Ford reports that Orlando turned down a deal for "a better point guard: Jamaal Tinsley."
• And finally, here is the ESPN.com story that comes along with a podcast that discusses the trade.
  

Breaking News: Jameer Nelson Has Season Ending Surgery

From the desk of the "Let's Slip This In Real Quiet Like" department, the Orlando Magic announced on their website that Jameer Nelson had season ending surgery on his injured shoulder this afternoon.

Here's the link the announcement: http://www.nba.com/magic/news/Magic_acquire_point_guard_Raf-301465-66.html
Notice how they snuck it in along with the bigger news of the Rafer Alston trade!

I think it is safe to say that the decision to do the surgery and the ability to make the trade for Alston go hand-in-hand. One directly influenced the other and vice-versa. The disappointing play of Hedo and our other point guards of late was surely a factor as well. It probably also helped Otis in his negotiations if he didn't have to admit that Nelson was shut down for the season. Hmmm...I wonder if Nelson was getting in on the subterfuge the other night by stating that he wanted to play!

One other factor in why this hasn't hit the newspaper sites as of this writing is that the team was coming back from New Orleans last night. I can't remember now if I saw Nelson on the bench for the Hornets game, but it would have been really easy for Nelson to stop in Birmingham on the way home. The beat reporters that travel to the away games wouldn't have noticed him being gone yet, especially when they were all focused on the trade deadline today.

So, it appears that this is now Rafer Alston's team to lead from the PG spot. As for Jameer, we here at TPASTBM wish him a speedy recover and full health at the start of the 2009-2010 season!

Scoop: Jameer Wants to Play; Will Otis Let Him?

The OCTB - that's me! - was working the game tonight against the Charlotte Bobcats and was able to pick up a tender, juicy, nugget (see what I did there?) of info about everyone's favorite injured point guard.

Jameer Nelson, looking dapper in a black suit, did a little demonstration for the assembled media members. He raised his head above his body, as when shooting, and claimed that he didn't have much discomfort. After talking with other players with similar injuries, he feels that there is a chance that, after a couple more weeks of rehab, he could return and play this season.

However, the big issue appears to be whether the Magic - namely GM Otis Smith and the Magic doctors - will allow him to attempt rehab. Sentiment seems to be that they would prefer to just shut Nelson down for the season.

Still, after watching the hard fought win tonight against the Charlotte Bobcats, it is evident that we need Mighty Mouse to keep pushing the show. The dude is all heart. Even if he ends up not playing again this season, it is a testament to his make-up that he wants to try.

It might only be a short-lived experiment if he does come back. What happens when he is banged hard on that shoulder while he's driving to the lane? Still, a small part of me hopes that he can convince Otis. Stay tuned!

*Photo courtesy of Sports Illustrated.

Music Monday

Exactly 2 weeks ago, Jameer Nelson went down with a torn labrum. The little guy has been irreplaceable since then, as the Magic have tried to put Anthony Johnson in the starting spot, which have provided mixed results thus far. Word out of Magic camp says GM Otis Smith prefers Jameer pack it in for the year and go ahead with the surgery now, rather then delay it and miss time next season.

Today, TPASTBM pays tribute to the big guy, with this touching song to remind us not to forget about him. We won't Jameer, we won't....



Hey, hey, hey ,hey
Ohhh...

Won't you come see about me?
I'll be alone, dancing you know it baby

Tell me your troubles and doubts
Giving me everything inside and out and
Love's strange so real in the dark
Think of the tender things that we were working on

Slow change may pull us apart
When the light gets into your heart, baby

Don't You Forget About Me
Don't Don't Don't Don't
Don't You Forget About Me

Will you stand above me?
Look my way, never love me
Rain keeps falling, rain keeps falling
Down, down, down

Will you recognise me?
Call my name or walk on by
Rain keeps falling, rain keeps falling
Down, down, down, down

Hey, hey, hey, hey
Ohhhh.....

Don't you try to pretend
It's my feeling we'll win in the end
I won't harm you or touch your defenses
Vanity and security

Don't you forget about me
I'll be alone, dancing you know it baby
Going to take you apart
I'll put us back together at heart, baby

Don't You Forget About Me
Don't Don't Don't Don't
Don't You Forget About Me

As you walk on by
Will you call my name?
As you walk on by
Will you call my name?
When you walk away

Or will you walk away?
Will you walk on by?
Come on - call my name
Will you all my name?

I say :
La la la...

Fun and failure both start out the same way

Warning: This is one of those "the sky is falling" posts.

Hedo fumbled around with the ball from about 27 feet out, dribbled a few to his right and threw up a prayer over Travis Outlaw. It banked in. The Magic pulled one out from nowhere and improved to 17-5 on the year. Things were going good. They kept winning. Several weeks later Orlando was beating up on Atlanta by 38... And it was only halftime. They swept San Antonio and the Lakers. All over the internet Magic fans were demanding respect from ESPN, arguing that aside from the puns Orlando was playing forth fiddle to LA, Boston, and Cleveland, despite having the best record in the whole, wide National Basketball Association.

Everyone's favorite columnist at the Orlando Sentinel was jumping on the bandwagon, his shinny bald head visible from row T of the upper bowl at home games. Perhaps it was because Tim Tebow can only be talked about so much, but even Mike Bianchi was saying that this team must be watched. Boston came to Orlando on a Thursday and beat the Magic, but there was still plenty of rejoicing around town. After all, we really had a chance! That was just one game.

The All-Star rosters were released. Dwight was already in, but Jameer and Rashard were going to be joining D12 in Phoenix. Orlando was the only franchise with 3 players on the team. Cleveland's Mo Williams was disappointed, and it didn't get much better because the same night Orlando beat Lebron and Mo and the Cavs by 11.

A few days later, Jameer dribbles at the top of the key, looking for an opening. He takes a few to his right and spins through two Toronto defenders; a slick highlight move on the way to an easy layup. The win in Toronto seemed like another day at the office.




Then Jameer got hurt and things changed. The mood at Amway was somber as everyone knew the chances of winning it all died at that exact moment. But it wasn't necessarily because Jameer got hurt that it wasn't going to happen anymore. Ya see, us Magic fans fooled ourselves into believing we could do it at all. But when you think about it, it was never going to happen. Here are some of the reasons why:

1. The Big Train likes the Magic. The list could stop here, but I'll continue.
2. A team that relies so much on the 3 point shot won't be able to continue it during the playoffs when the game slows down.
3. God revels in our disappointment.
4. Many of the tools over at ESPN (Yeah, I'm talking about you Stephen A., Jamal Mashburn, and Jalen Rose) actually said the Magic were a legitimate contender.
   
5. Dwight Howard, Jameer Nelson, and Rashard Lewis were on the All-Star team.
   
6. Brian Cook still plays for the Magic.
   
7. The Magic still had to get by potentially both the Cavs and Celtics, not to mention whoever would be waiting for them from the other side. Face it, the odds were still not too high.
8. Our best player, Mr. Dwight Howard, is still the youngest player on the team.
9. Tiger Woods would more than likely show up for some playoff games.
   

Of course there were reasons why the Magic could have won it all too. They have the best big man in the game. SVG is one of the best coaches in the NBA. Although they relied heavily on the 3 pointer the Magic are still one of the best defensive teams in the league. But why look at the positives right now when it is much easier to be depressed?

There is still a lot more basketball to be played this year, and crazier things have happened, so there's still a chance... Until the basketball gods remember that The Big Train is a Magic fan.


Thanks to Lifes Padawan and the pure genius of Arrested Development for the Fun and Failure poster. Also, Michael Cera better sign on for the AD movie. We all want to see it more than he will... Never know.

Circle The Wagons

Today we have a guest post from a friend of TPASTBM and all-around good guy "Live or Die Magic," the Fan Voice over at Orlandomagic.com. - OCTB


Is the season over? Last week the pavements of central Florida ran red what with all the Magic fans jumping from the ledges. Meanwhile, the actual Magic team kept playing games:

• A home win over the Los Angeles Clippers.
• A road loss to the Indiana Pacers.
• A home win over the New Jersey Nets.

Solid, if not spectacular. But this is where the Orlando Magic stand after losing Jameer Nelson for the near-future, and quite likely, for the season. So, you could argue that we are up and down right now. Unfortunately, as reflected by the attitude of the Magic fans on the Orlando Magic Message Boards, there seems to be a bit more down than up.

This season has seen our expectations picked up, tossed high in the air, and spun around to the ground. In a matter of a couple of months the Magic went from being a team that hoped to advance past the second round to being a title contender and now back to being a team that hopes to advance past the second round. This much change this quick is perhaps too much for the fragile Magic fan’s psyche. After all, we were taking baby steps, not leaps. Two years ago we finally made the playoffs. Last year we made it out of the first round. Season sweeps of title contenders San Antonio and Los Angeles, and a strong first showing against the Cleveland Cavaliers made us start to incredulously wonder if we were on a championship run in Year Five of the Howard era. There was even that brief, bright day when we owned the best record in the entire NBA.

The easy way out is to think that it is all gone now. No more chance for a championship. But for me, nothing has changed. The team’s goals should remain the same even without a vastly improved and confident Jameer Nelson in the lineup. Otis Smith placed photos of the O’Brien trophy all over the Magic locker room. He gave an O’Brien trophy pin to every Magic staffer. This was done in the preseason. This was done before Dwight Howard decided to become the most dominant defensive force in the game. This was done before Rashard Lewis demonstrated his comfort in the Magic lineup and his all-star level confidence. This was done before Stan Van Gundy started outcoaching pretty much ever coach he’s faced. This was before Courtney Lee forgot he was a rookie and made us forget the 2005-to-2007 drafts. And yes, this was before Jameer Nelson proved Otis Smith right and started outperforming his contract.

So, if the goal was a title before we actually had any reason to think it should have been a goal, how can we, in our grief at the loss of Nelson, discard that goal after the first half of the season has gone so far beyond our expectations? As Magic fans, we should be used to some heartache, some frustration, and even a sense of betrayal. All of that emotional turmoil should have steeled us for a “go for broke” mentality this season, with or without Jameer.

We all know that Jameer has a competitive nature. Surely it must be eating him up that he is likely going to miss the season. It is all the more unfortunate that this is occurring so soon after he was announced as an all-star for the first time. Like everyone else within the Magic organization, he has sensed the touch of greatness on this season’s team. Despite the sense of urgency for this season, I can only guess that he and the team are pursuing a more long-term approach to his injury. As fans, can we really argue against this? I know I can’t. Believe me, I would love to see Jameer attempt a short period of rehab and then give it a go sometime in April. But I understand and accept the decision to protect the long-term health of a young player with much promise in seasons to come.

As for the other players in the Magic locker room, they certainly wish Jameer was along for the ride. But that ride is still in progress and even if Nelson isn’t playing, their goals remain the same. Dwight isn’t going to play with any less exuberance and joy just because his buddy isn’t on the court with him. It just isn’t in his nature. With Nelson out, each of Rashard Lewis shots become even more important. Hedo Turkoglu, more than any other player (yes, even more than Anthony Johnson) has more responsibility with Nelson out. Now he must dictate the flow of the offense for longer stretches during the first three quarters and as for the fourth quarter, well, if he was Mr. Fourth Quarter last season…

Anthony Johnson, Courtney Lee, and JJ Redick all will see time at the point guard position. None of them are a replacement for Jameer Nelson but all have the ability to distribute the ball and create their own shots. Courtney Lee’s progress and Redick’s rebirth made Keith Bogans expendable, allowing us to trade for Tyronn Lue.

Speaking of the Lue trade, let’s all agree on the following clarification: Tyronn Lue is not a replacement for Jameer Nelson. Tyronn Lue is a replacement for Anthony Johnson. AJ went from back-up point guard to starting point guard. Tyronn Lue went from third-string point guard to back-up point guard. There is a difference. In fact, between Turk, Lee, and Redick getting minutes at the point, I think Lue should expect quite a few DNP-CDs in his future.

Bogans-for-Lue wasn’t earth shattering or even sexy. But it was solid. My biggest fear was that Otis Smith would make a trade that he wouldn’t have considered prior to Nelson’s injury. I had to laugh at all the speculation of Otis moving Turkoglu in order to replace Jameer. Seriously? Turkoglu is even more important now and it will be his playmaking ability that will be the best possible replacement for what Nelson provided to the team. Bogans was a player that was likely in his last season with the team and he is replaced by a player about which we can say the same. Our roster is not disrupted by a new starting-caliber player who isn’t familiar with our personnel or our system. Most importantly, we did not add salary that would have compromised our cap flexibility beyond this season.

Meanwhile, the team is still playing well. Sure, there will be an adjustment period for a few more games, but this team is still on pace to be a top team in the East. So here it is: if the Magic players are adjusting to the loss of Nelson and continuing on with the season, goals still in sight, shouldn’t we? My excitement isn’t diminished, my hope for the outcome of the season is still strong. Good things may still come from this setback. We still have incredible players and an incredible coach that are going out and laying it down each night for our enjoyment. There will still be playoffs, there will still be an overmatched first round opponent. And yeah, there will still be that 2nd round matchup with a Cleveland, a Boston, an Atlanta, or a Detroit. And Nelson or no Nelson, I can’t wait to see how our Orlando Magic respond to that challenge.

Credit the Orlando Sentinel for the photos

Music Monday

As we see Jameer on the bench every night in his dapper suits with the elbow patches we here at TPASTBM cannot shake how much we miss him.

• Everytime "Pops" looks like he is going to have a heart attack or asthma attack we miss him.


• Everytime Turk tries to do anything in crunch time and turns the ball over we miss him.


• Everytime Turk's pass sails into the 3rd row we miss him.


• Everytime we hear 2Pac's All Eyes on Me we miss him.


• Everytime we have to hear STILL whether or not picking up Tyronn Lue was a good idea we miss him.

With that said our Music Monday selection is this fine tune by Miley Cyrus "Miss You"

Just let the chorus take over your heart and let the music set you free.

I miss you. I miss your smile. And I still shed a tear every once in a while. And even though it's different now. You're still here somehow. My heart won't let you go and I need you to know I miss you, sha la la la la I miss you.

Finding something positive out of tragedy

The Orlando Magic might have lost their All-Star point guard for the season. The Magic nation is freaking out, some are jumping from buildings, others are wrestling alligators, while many more are wrestling bears. There appears to be no reason to live or continue watching, because the season is over.

I disagree. Yes, possibly losing Nelson for the season is a big blow for the team that was fighting for the title and after many mediocre, and some terrible seasons, where finally being thought to be among the elite of the league. We have to remember we still have Dwight Howard, Rashard Lewis, and Hedo Turkoglu on the team. Two All-Stars, and another great player. Also remember that when we missed Nelson early in the season, Anthony Johnson delivered, and the team went 5-1, or something like that.(*I promise I'll check my sources/numbers next time).

But think about this for a second, yes I'm talking to you directly, our record stands at 36-11, with 35 games left in the season. Can this team be a .500 club? I don't see why not. That means we can go 18-17 the rest of the way and finish the season with a record of 54-28. That's 54 wins. Better than last year, and probably good enough to still be third in the East. Going .500 is very realistic, hell they might even do better than that.

Sure we would all love to continue with the winning ways, How long has it been since we can all feel like no matter who we play we will win? But it's not as bad as some think. A 50 plus win team is considered a success. We know that the real goal is to win the championship. I know we all wanted to see that this year. But it's OK, the team will be back stronger next year, while Boston gets even older and Lebronland is one injury away from imploding.

So Magic fans, look at the bright side…We will still have the third best record in the East. We will still lead the Division. We will still got to the Playoffs. We will still win the first round series. We will still be here to celebrate together.

Credit: NBA.com for the photo

Game vs Clippers or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Anthony Johnson

Tonight will be the first of many games the Orlando Magic will have to play without All-Star PG Jameer Nelson. For now, they look to start 34 year old journeyman Anthony Johnson, and spell him with the likes of Courtney Lee and Hedo Turkoglu. Alot of Magic fans are worried about AJ being the starting PG on a championship contending team, myself included. However, let's take a look at some of the benefits of having him be our no.1 guy for the time being.

• Experience: AJ knows what it takes to get the job done. Despite his shortcomings on the offense end, and his lack of athleticism, he knows what not to do and what to do to get the W. He's averaging less then 1 turnover a game in 18 minutes played. While his other stats (4.3 pts, 2.6 assists) don't jump out at you, that is good ball management by the veteran.
  
• He's been here before: When Jameer was out with injury earlier in the year, AJ stepped in and had some of his best games of the season with the starting unit, including a 12 assist game against the Wizards. Maybe he just needs to have a better supporting cast around him to be able to succeed, instead of having only 1 star forward and Tony Battie to work with. No offense Tony....
• He has no neck: That has to count for something. Whether it be intimidation, or just making his opponent marvel at the fact that they are guarding someone who is the complete opposite of a giraffe, the no neck factor is key to AJ's success.
• He'll give you a sock in the mouth if you try to go for a layup: Reference the picture to the right if you don't believe me.
• He owns a custom door and window company: Beat that Chris Paul.

So tonight, the Clippers will be first to experience the AJ era as we close the door possibly on Jameers exciting All-Star season. Atleast there is a bright side, AJ gave us a discount on that door. Bazing!

Photo by Ron Turenne/NBAE via Getty Images

So what do the Magic do now?

Yesterday was a dark day for Magic fans. It's looking like Jameer Nelson will be out for the season with a torn labrum. Lovely. Here at TPASTBM, tears were shed, walls were punched, whiskey was chugged, and the existence of God was questioned. Now that the sun has risen again, it's time to get solutions oriented. That said, we each put on our Otis Smith glasses and size 14 designer dress shoes and got to work.

What do the Magic do now?

The Big Train - The key is not to panic. Obviously a point needs to be brought in, the question is who, where, and for what price. The answer: Carlos Arroyo. He knows Van Gundy and the system. He is currently over in Israel, and from what I have heard is not too happy. The only problem would be that the Magic would have to buy out his contract. Get on the phone with Tel Aviv and make it work so Carlos is ready to go right after the All-Star break. What this also does is allow the Magic to still make a move for more rebounding help down low, which until yesterday was the biggest hole on the team. Also, perhaps more importantly, this does not tie up money for this summer when Hedo opts out. The same couldn't be said if Orlando traded for Tinsley, Atkins, or Watson.

Jareth Cutestory - The answer is simple: Kill the Batman. Excuse me, I thought I was in a warehouse discussing illegal financial transactions, and not sitting at my computer ready to discuss what to do to keep my Magic from missing out on an opportunity to play for the Larry O'Brien trophy at the end of the season. While the news of Nelson's injury has depressed nearly every Magic fan, the sun will rise another day and we still have the most dominant center in the league, along with an all star forward and Hedo Turkoglu. An Eddie Gill isn't going to cut it to be a prominent factor in leading this team to the promised land. My suggestion is the Magic look to trade some spare parts such as Brian Cook and Keith Bogans for a serviceable PG. Guys such as Jamal Tinsley and Earl Watson could be had for the right price. If nobody wants the talents of those 2 studs, then I would look overseas at guys such as Jannero Pargo or Earl Boykins. If all else fails, there is always Smush. That last one was a joke.

The Nickel Steak - I'd argue that the most important thing to do is not panic. There are teams in this league with assets that they have no use for that the Magic can use. There is no reason to do something asinine, like trading for an overpriced possible starter like Beno Udrih or Jamaal Tinsley, because we need a point guard. The first thing the team should do is figure out if Jameer's back for the playoffs or not. Any move made should be made with knowledge of that, and based accordingly. There's no reason to bring in a spot starter if Jameer is back in 2 months for the playoffs. The Magic's best bet may be to dump expirings for an aging vet like Watson. That's a short term solution, which is a good thing. Even if Jameer's done for the year, he'll still be back in October. There's no reason to pretend the world just ended, even if this is a serious blow.

Paul Ego - Jefe, would you say that I have a plethora of options? Do we turn to free agency and pick up a guy currently sitting at home watching the NBA on TNT? Do we look to the NBDL for a guy looking for his chance? Do we make a trade to get us through the year? Do we try to bring back Carlos? Best case scenario. Nelson opts for rehab (with surgery over the summer), and is back in 3 weeks. We turn the reigns over to Johnson/Turk/Lee in the meantime, just like we did when Nelson sat earlier this year, and hope for the best. This also opens up some playing time for JJ or Bogans. Worst Case. Nelson opts for surgery now, and misses the rest of the season. We pick up someone that does not cost us a player or pick (unless that player is Cook or Bogans). Someone like JWill, a player from the D League, or Carlos Arroyo. If Carlos steps in and the team doesn't miss a beat, there is no way he doesn't get a decent contract next season somewhere in the NBA. I think trading for a more expensive PG at this point in the teams plans is not an option. It is going to be difficult enough going forward to retain talent like Hedo and pick up pieces the team needs to improve. Trading for a PG now (unless its a move that brings in a decent PG and PF with guys like Cook and Battie outbound) will hamper the ability of Otis to bring in solid pieces later. With our future struggles on the horizon (re-signing Turk for example), that would be tantamount to shooting ourselves in the, uhm, shoulder, so to speak.

Vile Feminista - I will try my hardest to ground myself in reality and not waste my time lamenting the loss of Mr Travis Diener, it will be hard. I am in panic mode, it may not be the most logical emotion but that cannot be easily altered. I know it may not be the sexiest choice but I would talk to White Chocolate. We do not need someone long term and I have always loved his game. He may not even want to play anymore but if he did it wouldn't be long and he should be fine with that. I'm sure he would come cheap, if at all and I definitely think he would be worth the conversation.

Maxwell Effort Well I after crying, getting angry, I now have to think. The first thing I do is decide I am not going to make a panic move. I bring in a guy like Eddie Gill for the next few games and act like everything is great! See although everyone thinks my leverage is shot there is a harsh reality out there which is the economy. Teams that are struggling are going to want to save money anyway they can. Heck Mark Cuban called this summer nuclear winter. If I were a competing team I would shoot for the moon right now because that is your job. But I know the more I wait the more teams should loosen up but when reality should set in. If a competing GM can save 6.5 million by trading say Earl Watson or Luke Ridnour they make that move. That also gives the Magic nice expiring deals next season in say Watson or Ridnour. If the asking price is raised to high to my liking then I stick with my D league guy because the difference between Earl Watson and a D leaguer is not as big as you think. I would also invest in some oxygen tanks for AJ.

Jackie Moon - Trade the team's washing machine for veteran PG Ed Monix. What do you mean he and I are not real??? The point is we can sit here and propose all the fantasy land trades we want but the problem is that replacing Jameer Nelson is nearly impossible without giving up a core player or taking on a bad contract (i.e. Tinsley or Watson). Even then it is unlikely to find a player who can keep this team playing at the elite level it had achieved. So I would propose adding a vet like Jason Williams who will cost the team almost nothing in the way of trade assets and leave our roster intact in case Jameer gets back for the playoffs. The good news is this team is still young and likely has more championship runs left in them than the aging Celtics and Cavs. The key now is not to overreact and screw up the future to get a player who is a gamble anyway or he wouldn't be available.



Terry and The Pump Fakes - Says another season another shoulder injury. I was just getting used to expecting wins every night so this is a big hit for me. I think we can still win quite a few games without Jameer and I think we can still take a top 3 seed into the playoffs but what is going to sting the most is not having Jameer there to hit those cold blooded daggers that downed teams like the Lakers. If he is done for the year we need to make a move for a vet that can defend and shoot and has 1-2 yrs left on his contract. We aren't going to find someone that can attack, defend and shoot on the cheap but I think a guy like Earl Watson wouldn't be a bad choice in the short term.

Ayo! - It's very difficult seeing Mighty Mouse go down like that. While my gut tells me I want him playing again as soon as possible (rehab route) so he can help this team in the playoffs, I have to think about the long-term investment. But the decision is up to him. Depending on what Jameer decides in the next couple of days, I will tailor my view at the available options accordingly. I have a lot of confidence in Turk and Courtney to fill in behind AJ, but I'm also looking for deals that could benefit the team. What I do know is that teams are probably going to increase their asking price for a player knowing that we have a need for another PG. If that's the case, I don't do business with them. I have plenty of options in mind to get us by, and I have great confidence in our squad to step it up in Jameer's absence.

OK, so you want to know what players really interest me? I'll list them for you in no particular order. Carlos Arroyo, Sergio Rodriguez, Ramon Sessions. Carlos already has experience with SVG and is a crafty minded PG, that's what I like most about that option. Sergio Rodriguez might be in a situation where the Blazers might not need him anymore once Blake gets back. He has a good eye for the game, can score and make the necessary pass. I like Ramon Sessions because he's a young kid who has shown flashes of being a good PG in this league, most specifically with his assists. He's also quite quick. If he doesn't work out for us this year, he can sign with another team if he likes.

I have some D-League players in mind, but I'll explore those options if it comes down to it. At this point in time, I'm remaining vigilant, and keeping my eyes open for a sound decision.


El Fantasma de Carlos Arroyo - So the incredible all-star run from our little guard might have come to an end. El Fantasma believes it is my fault because of the post I made the night of the game. I know, I know, Carlitos might be gone but his ghost is still here. I have been running around RDV and the O-rena looking at Nelson's rise to stardom a little jealous because my other half is playing in Israel. With that said, and because I am very very close to the man, I know Carlitos would love to come back. All that bombing and terrorism on that side of the world has him worried about the family. I know it wouldn't be easy, but it would be great if someone he could come back, but of course this will never happen.

It all depends on what Nelson decides to do.

Rehab and finishing the season -This would be great if there is no more risk of permanent damage for him. We do still remember Grant Hill's glass ankle. I would hate that for Nelson. If this happens, I say we go with the team as is, maybe pick up a free agent third stringer or a D-leaguer.

Out for the Season - Ready for this....I still say, we go with the team as is, maybe pick up a free agent third stringer or a D-leaguer. That's right, I said it.

As crazy as that might sound, the Magic can't go out there and break up a championship caliber team for a half season patch for an imaginary title run. Fact is no trade or signee will bring us what Nelson had, unless we trade someone on our core group(Hedo, Lee, Pietrus) for a star/starting PG. But why do that for half a season, knowing Nelson will be back next year. That would be retarded.

I say you try your best. Let your players bring up their game and make them be better and get better. Do we really want to win a championship without Nelson on the court? I want to see all of our guys in there, winning it all. If it happens I won't be upset, I will be extremely happy. But if we panic and trade one of our core guys for a Nelson replacement, we can say bye bye to a title run next year, and the year after, etc, etc.

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So there you have it people. Anyone know what time the liquor store opens this morning?

Credit NBA.com for the Otis image.

Breaking News: Nelson has torn Labrum

Update: 4:00 PM:

It's looking like the season is over for Jameer. The Orlando Sentinel is reporting that "at some time" Nelson has to have surgery. The question is rather to try to rehab it for awhile and then attempt to play through it or go ahead and have the surgery and be ready for next season. The Sentinel also caught up to Jameer and got his reaction.

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Earlier report:

Magic point guard Jameer Nelson underwent an MRI on his injured right shoulder on Tuesday morning, which revealed a torn labrum.

Nelson dislocated his right shoulder with 9:11 remaining during the third quarter of the Magic's loss to the Mavericks on Monday night.

The course of treatment for the injury will be determined during the next week. At that point, his playing status will be evaluated.

Via Press Release

More news over at the Orlando Sentinel

Jameer reacts via the Florida Today.

``It’s the first time I’ve ever injured a shoulder in terms of it popping out of place,’’ Nelson said Monday night. ``As a point guard you get nicks and bruises. You injure your shoulder all the time running through picks, but nothing like this.``It’s tough. Obviously I still want to play. You never want to get injured. But at the same time it comes with the territory and things happen.’’

ESPN's Chad Ford chimed in during his chat today:

Nimesh Patel (Orlando): Who are the Magic going to get at PG???

Chad Ford: (1:38 PM ET ) If Nelson is out for the season or even for a month or two, they are in serious trouble. Anthony Johnson isn't a starting point guard. They may be a team that could make a run at someone like Jamaal Tinsley. The problem is they don't really have the assets to get much more unless they are willing to trade Hedo Turkoglu. This is really bad news for the Magic. We know their starting 5 was rock solid, but their bench has always been a serious concern. Now it's showing.

Breaking down Jameer's injury

12:30 Update: The Orlando Sentinel is reporting Jameer tore his labrum. Options are rehab or season ending surgery. Regardless, it will be a lot of time out of the lineup.

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First, the Magic fell to the Mavericks last night 105-95 in what was a rather poor effort. During the 3rd quarter Jameer Nelson hurt himself chasing a loose ball near the Maverick bench. Favoring his right side he immediately went to the locker room.

ESPN highlights
NBA.com highlights

An MRI comes today. Word is a dislocated shoulder. Of course, injury time varies. Recently Brandan Wright was put on the shelf for a minimum of 3 weeks. Larry Hughes was lost "six to eight weeks" and Elton Brand missed a month. But whatever, I'm not a doctor.

So, what does this mean to the Magic, both short and long term?

• This obviously changes Jameer and the All-Star game. He was confirmed as a participant in the skills competition and was certainly going to assist Dwight in the dunk contest. This also opens the door for Mo Williams, the Cleveland point who was the biggest snub in the East.
• If Jameer is out for a significant amount of time it will certainly change the seating of the Eastern Conference's elite. Whoever ends up first in the East, whether that be Orlando, Boston, or Cleveland, will have a huge advantage as they will not have to face one of the other two until the 3rd round.
  
• If Jameer were to be out for a month or longer, now is a much better time than two months from now when the playoffs are looming.
  
• Another point guard will need to be brought in. AJ is a suitable backup but will have a problem handling the minutes of a starter. So who should the Magic bring in? Bianchi of the Orlando Sentinel seems to think Jason Williams might work. Marbury? Tinsley? Carlos Arroyo? One thing is for sure, Otis Smith is not about to bring in a questionable character that might negatively influence this already great locker room.
  
• Before the season, after the injury to Mike Wilks, there was talk of Courtney Lee potentially moving over to the point for some minutes. The injury to Jameer might force this and further help develop this rookie who is having a stellar year. Courtney aside, everyone is going to have to take it up a notch and shot a bit better than 3-20 from three point range...
  
• Talk recently has been that Orlando needs help for Dwight down low. Not anymore.
• Jameer missed 5 games earlier this year and the Magic went 4-1 with the only loss being a 107-88 beat down to the Celtics.
  
• It's interesting that before the season many people were saying that Orlando couldn't win it all with Jameer. Now it sounds like people are saying Orlando can't win it without him.
  

How do I feel about this? It certainly rains a bit on our parade, but I don't doubt that we will be fine in the end. If Dwight is the superstar he is suppose to be, he will put this entire team on his shoulders.

Thanks to NBullsBasketball for the Jameer image.

Mavs at Magic: 3's Abound

The Magic made 3 3's last night. I have read Live by the 3 die by the 3 3 times this morning and today is the 3rd of the month. With that said here are 3 points from last night that nobody is discussing.

1. Unless you are holding Jameer's medical report you are not breaking the news on his injury. Jameer will be out 1 game to 6 months. You heard it here first.
2. http://scores.espn.go.com/nba/shotchart?gameId=290202019. That, kids, is a shot chart. Scroll down to Dirk and you will see he took one shot in the paint all night and missed! Sometimes when you got it going you got it going.
3. This week's schedule is not the most daunting in the world. Clips and Nets with an Indy road game in between. I see no reason for 3-0.

Three, it's a magic number.

Credit for the photo: Reuters Pictures

El efecto de la salida de Carlos Arroyo en Jameer Nelson

La pasada temporada todos los fanaticos de Orlando vimos la salida de el base armador de la isla del encanto. Muchos pensaron que el equipo necesitaba sus servicios, y que era un error grande el dejarlo ir sin intentar de volverlo a contratar. Muchos pensamos que Jameer Nelson no era la solución para la posición para el equipo, y teníamos la idea de que simplemente fracasarían. Nelson nunca fue consistente, no tomaba buenas decisiones, y muchas veces intentaba hacer demasiado en la cancha. Lo bueno era que el equipo tenia otra opción en el banco con Carlos Arroyo, y también Kenyon Dooling, de ser necesario.

Pero ahora, ¿Qué podriamos esperar?

Hemos pasado la mitad de la temporada. Los Magic de Orlando tienen una marca de 36-10, que es bueno para liderar su división, el tercer mejor record de la conferencia, y cuarto en la liga, y han comprobado ser uno de los equipos elite de toda la liga. Tienen la mejor marca en partidos jugados como visitantes con 18-6, lideres en tiros de 3 puntos intentados y muchas otras cosas mas. En un momento has estaban como numero 1 en la lista de poder.

¿A que se debe esto?

No hay duda de que es el efecto de varias variables. El hecho de que Dwight Howard encontrara el monstruo defensivo que estaba durmiendo dentro de si, líder en rebotes y tapones esta temporada, mientras continua siendo una fuerza ofensiva, es gran ayuda. Rashard Lewis nos ha impresionado con su juego combinado de tiros largos y penetración. Pero los dos ya mencionados han sido estrellas en años pasados.

La razón principal para mi, Jameer Nelson. Y ¿Por qué esta jugando baloncesto como nunca antes? Mi opinión es el efecto Carlos Arroyo. El no tener a Carlos como suplente a ayudado a empujar a Jameer a incrementar su producción. En los últimos años, si Jameer cometía un error, no estaba enfocado, o lo que sea, Carlos (o Dooling) podía entrar en el juego y correr la ofensa y todavía ganar el partido. Ahora no hay una opción viable para Jameer. Anthony Johnson a sido decente para jugar los 10 minutos, mas o menos, que le dan para que Jameer descanse, pero no es una opción para la temporada entera.

Esto ha obligado a Nelson a jugar enfocado, no cometer errores, y seguir jugando a un nivel sin precedentes. Un buen base armador es el que guía un equipo a tener éxito. Y Nelson a demostrado ser la respuesta en lo que va de temporada. Prueba mayor que ser nombrado como reserva en el juego de estrella no existe. El verdadero Jameer Nelson ha llegado para quedarse. Y todos nosotros los fans de Orlando, tenemos que darle las gracias a Carlitos por eso. Asi que aquí le va.

Carlos…."Muchas Gracias"…

The Carlos Arroyo effect on Jameer Nelson.

Last season all of us fans of the Orlando Magic saw the exit our point guard from the island of enchantment. A lot of us thought that the team needed his services, and that it was a mistake to just let him walk, without trying to sign him back or doing nothing. Many of us thought that Jameer Nelson was not the answer for the team and thought they will not be successful this year. Nelson was never consistent enough, would make bad decisions and many times tried to do way too much on the court. The good thing for the team is that they always had another good option off the bench in Carlos Arroyo (or Kneyon Dooling) if needed.
So now, What can we all wait for?

We have passed the mid point of the season. The Orlando Magic have a record of 36-10, which is good to lead their division, it’s the third best record in their conference, and fourth in the league and they have proven to be one of the elite teams in the league. They have the best record on away games at 18-6, are leading in 3 points attempted, and so on. At one point they where even #1 in the power rankings.

What is the reason for this success?

There is no doubt that it is because of a few reasons. The fact that Dwight Howard has found a defensive monster that was sleeping inside of him, he is the leader in rebounds and blocks, while continuing to being an offensive force is a big help. Rashard Lewis has impressed us all with his inside outside game this year. But these two have already been All-Stars before.

The main reason to me is Jameer Nelson. But, Why is he playing basketball at a level he has not before? My opinion, The Carlos Arroyo Effect. Not having Carlos as a sub, has pushed Nelson to increase his production. The last few years, if Jameer made a costly mistake, he wasn't playing focused, or whatever else might have been happening, Carlos (or Dooling) could come into the game, take over, run the offense and win the game. Now there is no other viable option for Nelson. Anthony Johnson has been decent while playing 10 minutes or so to give Nelson a rest, but he wouldn't be the option for a full season.

This has forced Nelson to play focused, not make many mistakes, and to play at level we had not seen before. A good point guard is the key to a good team. Nelson has proven to be the answer this season. The biggest prove of this has been his selection as a reserve point guard for the All-star game. The real Jameer Nelson has finally showed up to stay. And all of us Orlando Magic fans have to thank Carlitos for this. So here it goes.

Carlos…"Muchas Gracias"…

*imagen cortesia de yahoo sports.