The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

[AC]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

I'm still here as well. Love this.

[trekfan]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

Rapid Reaction: Lakers 110, Nets 102
By Rachel Hansen|ESPNLosAngeles.com
December 27, 2015

The Lakers (21-7) took on the Nets (11-16) at Staples Center and the game was exciting from start to finish. When Dwight Howard took the floor the crowd rained down boos, many Lakers fans still angry over Howard leaving the franchise.

The cheers for Howard’s replacement, Andrew Bogut, were much louder. Bogut has had a rough stretch where he’s been less than effective on the floor, but this game would again remind Lakers fans what he brings to the team. The game’s first quarter was a neck-and-neck affair, both teams shooting their way to 24 points each.

In the second quarter, however, Anthony Randolph and Jabari Parker took over, helping the Lakers get an eight point lead heading into halftime. Parker hit a fadeaway three at the buzzer, much to the chagrin of the Nets coaching staff, and the crowd roared.

It would be a different story for the Lakers in the third quarter, when Deron Williams and Trey Burke began to shoot the ball and shoot it well. Burke was hitting deep balls all in the quarter as William showed off his inside game. The two point guards dueled to a near standstill.

But in the fourth Burke would take control of the game and find Bogut, who had managed to hold Howard to only ten points by the beginning of the fourth. Bogut and Burke worked flawlessly as a tandem, and the two players helped seal the game for the Lakers as the Nets furiously battled back from their deficit. They came up short, however.

Trey Burke was named player of the game with 22 points and nine assists. Bogut chipped in 10 points and nine rebounds while Parker and Randolph both contributed 19 points each. Kobe had a quiet game, with only 12 points.

For the Nets, Williams finished with 15 points and eight assists while Howard finished with 14 points and nine boards. Wilson Chandler led the team with 21 points and 10 rebounds.

Here are three takeaways from the game:

Burke Balls

Trey Burke had one of his best nights as a pro-ball player and he knows it. “I was feeling it tonight,” said Burke after the game. “I really was just going out there and playing my game … I was glad to face Deron now. Anytime I can face one of the better point guards in the game, I’m happy.”

Burke’s trade value will likely go up after tonight’s performance and will go up if he plays well against the Blazers, who the Lakers face twice in the next three days.

Not Quite There

The Deron to Dwight combo resulted in some spectacular alley-oop dunks and also some notable miscommunications. The Nets have to be pleased that the pair played as well as they did tonight against one of the best teams in the league, but if they’re to save their season the two stars will have to gel faster.

“We know it’s a process and we know it takes time … we’ll get there and when we do we’ll be unstoppable,” said Howard after the game. Upon being asked about what it felt like being back in LA once more, Howard said, “It’s just another town to me, man. Just another town.”

Looking Ahead

The Lakers face the Trail Blazers in Portland tomorrow night and the game is crucial for the Blazers, who are barely above .500 at the moment. If they’re able to split these games with the Lakers, the team will get a much needed boost of morale. Anything less and the Blazers slip into below .500 territory which will guarantee them to be out of the playoffs in the ultra-competitive West.

For the Lakers, the games represent a chance to fine-tune some things, specifically on defense. “We’re giving up too many inside buckets,” said Alvin Gentry after the game. “We need to tighten up and soon … the rest of the league isn’t stupid. They’ll come at us from there and we have to be ready.”

[trekfan]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story



12-28-15

She snuggled up against him and bathed in his warmth. “Ronnie, pass the popcorn.”

He did as he was told and she grabbed a handful of it as they watched the movie before them. It was some thriller flick that came out a few months before, starring Liam Neeson. She didn’t know what it was about. She didn’t really care. She was just happy to have him home for a night where they could just spend time together.

“He’s going to feel that in the morning,” Ronnie said as he winced at something onscreen.

She didn’t bother agreeing with him. “Can I ask you something?”

He broke his attention from the screen and looked at her. “Absolutely.”

She sat up and paused the movie. “I want to contribute to us. To do more than just spend money.”

He looked at her questioningly. “You don’t like spending money? Liz, it’s not like we need to worry. I’m locked into a 20 year deal with the best franchise in the NBA, arguably all of sports.”

She sighed. “Yes, you are. That’s the point. I’m not doing anything to help us out, Ronnie. We’re married now and the responsibility to make our lives better shouldn’t just fall to one person.” He looked wounded and her tone softened. “It’s not that I don’t love you for it but I want to be a part of it. It’s our life together, not just you.”

He crossed his arms and leaned back. She knew that face. That was his “I’m a GM” face. She hated that face but he was shifting his mind from play to business.

“All right, what were you thinking?”

She smirked. “You remember all my heavy law books?”

He rolled his eyes. “You want to try that again?”

She didn’t like his tone at all. “Of course I do. I don’t quit on things.” She poked him in the chest. “You should know that.”

Properly chastised, he frowned. “Point taken. If you want to be a lawyer, this town is good one to be a lawyer in." He sighed. "So, which side you want in on?”

“Independent defense attorney. Since we’re not hurting for money, I wouldn’t charge a lot at all,” she said happily. “I want to help people. Make life better for them.” She winked at him. “You could help do that.”

He nodded. He reached for the remote and turned the movie off. She now had his full attention. “The Lakers are looking for some organizations to really support. Jabari, in particular, has been pretty vocal about wanting to get involved. From an organizational standpoint, it’d be really good for us and him in terms of publicity.”

“And Jabari?”

He smiled. “He’s a good kid. He was raised right and wants to use his newfound fame to help promote a cause. What kind of cause is the question … and frankly, there are a lot of things that could use his kind of star power. The kid is the next, great thing in this league, Liz. You should see him play.”

She pulled some her dark hair behind her ear and snuggled up close against him. “I’ll make a deal. When I land my new job, I’ll run up a list of organizations to support. I already have a few ideas.”

Ronnie looked at her deviously. “And what do I get?”

“My eternal gratitude.”

He shook his head with a smirk on his face.

She laughed at him. “Fine, that and I’ll talk basketball with you.”

His eyes lit up. “You’re not just teasing me, are you? You know I love it when you talk basketball.”

She put a finger on his lips. “I promise. I’ll even throw in a few nights where we play, if you think you’re up for it. You are getting older, after all.”

He feigned a wounded look. “I can’t believe you’d be so hurtful!”

She stood and backpedaled towards the bedroom. “Well, I guess I’m just feeling bad tonight … would you like to discipline me, Commissioner?”

She was being playful and he didn’t need a second invitation. He leapt off the couch and rushed towards her as she rushed towards the bedroom.

Liam Neeson’s thriller wasn’t nearly as thrilling as what they did next.

[trekfan]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story


The Grantland NBA First Trimester Report
By Vonny Lee and Winslow Fisher on December 28, 2015

Vonny: Holy S**T, Winslow, Grantland gave us an NBA column? Are you excited or are you still stinging over my repeated Ghostbusters-related jokes?

Winslow: I’m still hurting from the jokes. But I love the NBA so much I’ll suck it up and do this with you. Simmons is off my Christmas list, though.

Vonny: I guess I shouldn’t be surprised, you hold grudges. You still haven’t forgiven me for that marshmallow stunt I pulled last Christmas party.

Winslow: I never will. Never. Let’s get to this analysis before I have to listen to you go on about how I need to try out for the third Ghostbusters movie (that we both know will never be made).

Vonny: Lies! Lies! It’ll get done, never lose faith!

The Raw Data:

NBA Standings - Updated: Dec 28, 2015
ATLANTIC	W	L	GB	DIV	CONF
76ers	16	12	--	7-2	14-5
Raptors	13	16	3.5	5-3	11-7
Celtics	13	17	4.0	2-3	6-10
Nets	11	17	5.0	0-7	4-15
Knicks	8	22	9.0	3-2	6-7
CENTRAL	W	L	GB	DIV	CONF
Pacers	15	12	--	3-4	11-8
Bulls	15	13	0.5	4-3	7-9
Cavaliers	16	14	0.5	6-3	12-8
Bucks	14	16	2.5	1-6	7-8
Pistons	12	19	5.0	3-1	8-8
SOUTHEAST	W	L	GB	DIV	CONF
Bobcats	16	10	--	6-4	10-5
Wizards	15	11	1.0	4-4	11-7
Heat	14	14	3.0	4-3	7-6
Hawks	11	17	6.0	1-3	5-10
Magic	8	18	8.0	2-3	3-9
NORTHWEST	W	L	GB	DIV	CONF
Thunder	19	7	--	2-2	9-4
Timberwolves	18	12	3.0	4-1	13-6
Nuggets	16	12	4.0	1-2	8-7
Jazz	15	12	4.5	1-2	8-9
Trail Blazers	15	14	5.5	1-2	10-10
PACIFIC	W	L	GB	DIV	CONF
Lakers	22	7	--	4-2	14-3
Kings	16	13	6.0	4-2	7-9
Warriors	16	13	6.0	3-4	8-11
Clippers	12	18	10.5	2-3	4-10
Suns	10	19	12.0	2-4	8-11
SOUTHWEST	W	L	GB	DIV	CONF
Hornets	17	9	--	4-1	9-6
Spurs	16	13	2.5	1-2	6-8
Rockets	14	14	4.0	2-4	7-8
Grizzlies	13	17	6.0	3-3	7-11
Mavericks	10	19	8.5	2-2	6-11

Vonny: Okay, we’ll take this division by division and it’s clear to everyone that the Knicks are the worst team in the league, right? Right? I mean, come on, look at that record. 8-22? I saw my grandmother’s all-Viatiamese women’s league team put up a better record than that and there wasn’t a player taller than 5’.

Winslow: Hey, be nice to your grandmother, she has a nasty crossover. Also, the Knicks are pretty horrible but they admitted that when they traded ‘Melo for Derrick Williams (a brilliant trade) and got rid of his horrible contract. James Dolan needs to be neutered, but other than that this season could have been worse.

Vonny: As a diehard Knicks fan, I expected more pessimism from you. I’m very disappointed. What about the Nets, though? You have to be enjoying their misery. They traded for Dwight, got rid of Brook, and essentially are banking for a crappy playoff spot or a mid-round lottery pick. Billy King, everyone!

Winslow: As much as I enjoy the Nets misery (being that my brother is a complete turncoat, I especially enjoy it), they’re in better short-term shape than the Knicks. They’ll be competitive for the next two to three years with the Deron-Dwight combo, but how they build around them for the future is what’s important. They haven’t gone to full rebuild mode like the Knicks.

Vonny: But should they? It’s not like their fans are getting more patient. Or the owner promised a championship “sometime within the next couple of decades”. The Russian promised a championship within five years and that time is about to run out after this season.

Winslow: They need help but they at least know what they have going on. The Celtics, on the other hand, are scratching their heads at why their team is falling hard. Has Doc Rivers lost his magic? Is it Rondo? Should they have taken Parker instead of Wiggins (as Parker himself seemed to think he was deserving of number one overall)?

Vonny: I think the Celtics have the same problem as my father, which is to say they’re stuck between two different eras. My dad was born in the 60s, and identifies with that generation, but wants to be hip and cool, so he gets all the Apple products and tries to wear clothes he knows he shouldn’t. It’s embarrassing and makes his children cringe when he gets into a real “hipster” mode.

This is the Celtics now. They have Rondo, they have Doc Rivers, two holdovers from their championship era with Allen, Pierce, and KG but Wiggins is there. Rudy Gobert is there (and his freakishly long arms). LaMarcus Aldridge was brought in but Justise Winslow was drafted (relative of yours?). It just seems the Celtics aren’t quite sure what to do.

Winslow: I’m going to ignore your Winslow comment but I will agree that they seem unsure. Danny Ainge is likely going to unload someone before the deadline and Rondo looks to be the guy. The question is who takes him? Rondo is a guy who requires some maintenance and he has a tendency to be moody. Whomever he ends up with will have to take care to keep him engaged and locked in, otherwise he ends up making the Rondo pouty face.

Vonny: Well, if Ainge does finally pull the trigger on that Rondo trade, I can think of a few teams that would call (both LA squads would be very interested). But look at the Raptors! They don’t suck too much this year. That’s worth something, right?

Winslow: Toronto still has a team?

Vonny: That’s cold, man. Good thing they’re in Canada and are used to it. Okay, to Philly then. Jrue Holiday and Andrew Bynum continue to work. Thad Young continues to be underrated and he’ll be a free-agent. I’m excited he ends up on a team that actually values him.

Winslow: Philly will be fine until the playoffs and then they’ll disappoint, like they have the last two seasons. Holiday-Bynum doesn’t have what it takes to elevate the team to higher levels than the second round. Sorry.

The Central Division

Vonny: Things are tight in this division from top to bottom. At least the Pistons still suck. Why is that, anyway? Don’t they have talent and aren’t they paying that talent lots of money?

Winslow: They have Joe Dumars whom they need to stop paying money to. Once they do that they’ll be better off. The team is about potential, not results. The East gets better every year and instead of getting better they just spin their wheels.

Vonny: I had an ex-girlfriend from Detroit who said the same thing about her car. Her wheels were always spinning and she never went anywhere. She often left the parking brake on.

Winslow: That’s more insightful about your poor dating habits than the Pistons, but I could see Joe Dumars doing that. Looking just past them is the Bucks, who started out decently enough and then lost Larry Sanders for six weeks. Four weeks into that they’re stinking it up again as Sanders waits to come back.

Vonny: That’s LARRY SANDERS! Yes, the Bucks surely do miss him. If he comes back with them still floating around, we could see them make a mid-season push for the playoffs. If not, the Bucks will at least have shown a lot of promise for this year. That’s more than they’ve had the last few seasons.

Winslow: At least the Cavs have remained afloat as they wait for Horford to come back. Irving is playing well and so is Bradley. The two really complement each other, like Sonny and Cher. An odd match but one that works.

Vonny: You realize virtually none of our readers know who Sonny and Cher are, right? But, yeah, the Cavs still remain in the hunt for a playoff spot but don’t you think the fans wish they had LeBron instead of CJ Leslie? Leslie is underwhelming as a pro.

Winslow: No, he’s completely wasting our time, not underwhelming. He was a reach for the Cavs and isn’t doing much to make me think otherwise.

Vonny: At least they didn’t spend a lot on him, he’s locked into a rookie contract. The Bulls, on the other hand, have Deng locked in for another three years on a not-so-favorable looking deal for the future. They went all in this year as they try and get back to the Finals and win another title. I think the pressure Chicago is feeling to win another one is even greater than when they didn’t have one in that long drought between Jordan and Rose.

Winslow: OJ Mayo has brought a scoring burst, that’s for sure, and the bench is deep but the Bulls are treading water in an increasingly dangerous East. They have to be aware that they need to play their best basketball from this point forward otherwise they could be looking at another exit in the playoffs against another unlikely opponent. I still think the Bulls are kicking themselves losing against the Cavs last year in the ECF.

Vonny: Wouldn’t you think they’re worried more about the Pacers? These guys are looking like a potential Finals contender. Jimmer has found his shot, George Hill is back playing his natural position, and Paul George is lighting it up. Combine that with the solid post play of Blair and Hibbert and the Pacers could make noise.

Winslow: The only noise the Pacers might make is a prolonged sigh as they fail to succeed in the latter half the season. They’re not built for championships right now. George is the only legitimate star they have and he needs someone else to run with. Hibbert, Blair, Jimmer, and Hill are all good, solid players that don’t add up to much else. I expect them to lose their division lead to the Bulls.

Vonny: I got the Cavs winning it once Horford gets back, because of Irving and only because of him.

The Southeast Division

Winslow: The Magic are still cellar-dwellers but they’re trying. I think they need a better big man than Vonleh or Vucevic to elevate them. Muhammad and Bayless are doing everything they can to make it work.

Vonny: As the leader of the V and V Club, I must disagree. Sure, Vonleh and Vucevic aren’t star guys but they bring hustle and heart. The Magic just need to unload some of the extra crap players they have and turn it into some veteran leadership.

Winslow: At least we can both agree the Hawks made a critical mistake with Michael Beasley, right? They’re struggling mightily with him and the rest of the team isn’t helping much.

Vonny: I blame Alex Len more. He’s only averaging 7.1 points a game. My grandmother could do better and has two out of the last three years.

Winslow: Your grandmother doesn’t read your columns I hope.

Vonny: Like most people, she doesn’t. Speaking of most people, don’t the Heat look like most people? They’re so average. It’s shocking to see them struggle to get to .500 and even then it’s a very unstable .500. I feel like if DWade trips and bumps into a couch he’s done for the year.

Winslow: Harsh, but a true consideration. Wade’s injuries seem to have really caught up with him this year. He’s staying on the court but he’s scoring only 15.9 PPG, ten points less than he averaged last year. His numbers are down across the board and LeBron’s partner in crime looks like he needs to retire. The Heat have to be looking for something to elevate them back into the discussion as title contenders, but Wade’s pretty much untradeable.

Vonny: Hey, you think my Lakers could grab Wade? Think of a Wade-Bryant-Parker lineup and tell me that’s not mouth-watering.

Winslow: Yeah, no. The Lakers want to get rid of Burke but not at the expense of taking on Wade’s contract and pairing an old, aging star with another old, aging star while holding back the development of Parker. I could see the Heat trading Wade to a team like the Spurs, however. Pop knows how to get the most out of veteran players and could add a few more years to Wade’s career with minute management. Look at Duncan, still effective even at his advanced age. He doesn’t put up eye-popping stats but he gets his team wins.

Vonny: Well, the Heat are a mess. We know this. The Wizards are doing well, though. John Wall, Bradley Beal, and Tony Mitchell make some exciting basketball. Are the Wizards the darlings of the East?

Winslow: A compelling case can be made for them. Great unis, great team chemistry, and fun every night to watch. They have DeAndre Jordan doing his thing on defense and they have stockpiled youth at affordable prices. They’re a team that looks to challenge for the future.

Vonny: But are they as good as the Bobcats? They’re rolling right now with Evans, Noel, and MKG. I can’t believe they’ve recovered so well after last year’s letdown. I thought for sure they’d suck this year. They’re the Bobcats, nothing good happens to them for long.

Winslow: They’re succeeding because of Ronnie Gold’s long-term plan. It’s still in place. Look at their free agency moves this past year. They brought in Seraphin, a criminally underrated player, and added in the bench scoring of Louis Williams. I can’t say they’ll go deep in the playoffs but they’ll make it and for the Bobcats that’s fantastic. That should be their goal for the next three seasons, just make the playoffs. By the end of that Noel will be just entering his prime and then they should aim higher.

Vonny: I don’t like it when you make sense.

Winslow: I know it offends your twisted sensibilities. The West is next. I guess I should prepare myself for constant Lakers talk.

Vonny: Yes, yes you should.

The Northwest Division

Winslow: There’s not one team here that’s below .500, which is a testament to the strength of the West. The Trail Blazers are struggling though and I think they’re in serious danger of missing out on the playoffs if they don’t get some help from their bench.

Vonny: Myers Leonard is a complete bust. He barely adds anything to their roster besides size and his dunk celebrations. Reggie Jackson is still out for four weeks and Lillard is carrying an awful lot of offense by himself. Batum is there and providing good support but Amar’e is just not what he once was. I think we’re looking at a retooling in the offseason for them. Batum could be let go or traded for a legitimate big man.

Winslow: They need some post help, yes. That’s where every other team in the division has them at a disadvantage. The Jazz are sporting both Favors and Kanter, the two working well together with Hayward and Terrence Ross. The team is well-balanced and has serious potential in the years to come. I don’t think they make it deep in the playoffs this year but they’ll get there.

Vonny: I can’t disagree on the Jazz. I’m just worried about them having to go through the teams above them in the coming years. The Nuggets won’t be falling apart anytime soon. This division is the toughest one in the NBA for my money.

Winslow: I’ll agree to that for now. K. Love and Rubio are the biggest threats to overtake this division in the next two to three seasons. I think the Nuggets are part of the division that won’t be a factor as the latter part of the season develops. Ty Lawson is good but he’s not Rubio good. Love is unmatched with his proficiency on offense and rebounding. His defense has improved to solid, which is enough in this day and age.

Vonny: Until he gets hurt or Rubio does. The ‘Wolves always have injuries hit them at the worst time. They maybe the unluckiest team in the league.

Winslow: Then the Thunder are the luckiest, simply by virtue of drafting Durant, Westbrook, and Ibaka. These pieces are going to get them back into the playoffs and they’ll have a chance to redeem themselves after last year’s disappointing end to the Lakers. They desperately want back in the Finals and they want to beat the Lakers.

Vonny: They have a decent shot at it. Hell, probably a really good shot at it. I’m not confident the Lakers can stop Durant this year. He looks like a man on a mission and Jabari Parker won’t catch him by surprise like last year. But Parker is playing better than Wiggins right now and he seems to be learning the art of closing from Kobe. It’ll be a close race for the number one seed.

The Pacific Division

Winslow: Speaking of the Lakers, their division isn’t as exciting as it was in years past. At the bottom is the Suns, who have realized what the Lakers and Knicks did before them: Mike D. can’t coach stars other than Steve Nash. Jennings has regressed this year and ‘Melo was brought in to bring some veteran leadership and excitement. The organization is looking for a new GM and Robert Sarver, perennial cheapskate, seems to be tired of being hated. Next year will be better for them.

Vonny: Yeah, at least they have something to look forward to. The Clippers are drowning in the drama of Paul and Griffin. Both are tired of sucking and both want out. Part of me gets it and hopes the Lakers can somehow grab one, but I’m not sure I want them on my team. I know the two are among the best (if not the best) at their positions, but all the drama is turning me off. Drama kills relationships. My ex-girlfriends taught me that.

Winslow: You and your exes. But, yes, Paul and Griffin have to be moved so the Clippers youth can grow. I expect Paul to land on a contender with assets (Houston, the Rockets are hopeful) and Griffin is young enough that he can be traded to somewhere who can grow next season (maybe the Magic according to league sources). In either case, the sides need to move on. This horse is long past dead.

Vonny: That brings us to the Warriors who are clinging to being above .500. Curry’s shooting and Curry’s ankles continue to be a source of pride and peril for this team.

Winslow: The addition of Drummond was well-timed. The defensive presence he brings complements Chris Bosh nicely, but they have to figure out a way to consistently put together wins. They’re very much seesawing back and forth between being good and being bad. That won’t do after the All-Star break.

Vonny: The Kings find themselves acting like their star player: immature but super-talented. Boogie Cousins is a mystery wrapped in a very angry tortilla shell. I wonder if he even eats tacos.

Winslow: I’m pretty sure he eats anything that is put in front of him. He’s having the best season of his career but his antics with the refs on the court are going to make a problem for the Kings as they move on. They need to rein him and the other players on the team in. The Kings are leading the league in fouls, which isn’t an issue right now but when the playoffs approach it will be.

Vonny: And then there’s my Lakers. Jabari Parker has made the leap into stardom, hell, super-stardom. He’s averaging 23.7 PPG, 5.9 RPG, and 3.9 APG. Damn if those aren’t some really good numbers.

Winslow: I’m more impressed by the emergence of Anthony Randolph or AR15 as he’s called. The guy was a potential-laden stud for years but he’s finally taken the next step. 16.9 PPG and 8.9 RPG, playing with dominating ball handlers in Bryant and Parker? He’s shown his skills. I wonder if the decline of Bogut won’t leave the Lakers looking for more help before the trade deadline, but this team has looked the best so far in the league.

The Southwest Division

Vonny: Quick, we’re running out of column space! The Mavs suck! Is this going to change anytime soon or is Mark Cuban going to go insane and become an even worse version of Jerry Jones?

Winslow: Cuban is heading towards a Jones-esqe result. He got his one title and tried to engineer future success by playing to the free agent market. He’s been burned and now has to evaluate his franchise from a weakened position. I expect Dallas to be horrid next year as well, which is a shame because Dirk deserves better. Whether they split is another question altogether but it should be done happily by both parties.

Vonny: And the Grizzlies? Evan Turner still puts up good numbers. He’s just not doing much for his team. Were the Sixers right in unloading him?

Winslow: They may not have been right but they look smart. Turner turns out good stats but his leadership is lacking. Memphis has to pick a direction this offseason and Turner/Okafor looks to be it. Conley and Ed Davis look to be the sacrificial lambs.

Vonny: You mean scapegoats. It’s a shame for Conley. Davis is overrated.

Winslow: That brings us to the Rockets, who are increasingly regretting signing Jeremy Lin to that deal this offseason. He’s been battling injuries for the last few weeks and won’t be healed up till next week at the earliest according to team doctors. Is it just too much underachieving star power on this team?

Vonny: James Harden and J-Smoove deserve better. The pair is vastly entertaining but wins are hard to come by out West where every game is a battle. If they manage to get Chris Paul, they may have the all-time underachieving stars team, but until they do they’ll just have to hope for Linsanity to come back.

Winslow: The biggest surprise this year has to be the Spurs. They lost Tony Parker to the Knicks (who lost him to injury and because of that spun into chaos, resulting in the ‘Melo trade), replaced him with Tyshawn Taylor and Brandon Knight, and hoped to suck enough for a good draft pick. Instead, Taylor is averaging 13.5 PPG, Knight is chipping in another 17.9 PPG (on 48 percent shooting, the best mark of his career), and Paul Millsap is alive again (averaging 14.9 PPG). Leonard continues to grow and Duncan continues to defy conventional wisdom. Is Pop the coach of the year?

Vonny: Yeah, unless Doc Rivers somehow revives the Celtics.

Winslow: Then the Hornets. They can’t seem to do anything wrong, even when Eric Gordon gets injured. They’re by far the best team in that division and Anthony Davis plays like a less-polished, less insane KG. But he plays very well. Vasquez, Gordon, Matthews, Davis, and Cody Zeller are one of the best starting fives in the league. Hard to compete with them at the moment.

Vonny: At the moment. Eric Gordon is a free agent after this season and so is Austin Rivers, who the Hornets invested a top-ten pick in a few years back. I can’t see them keeping ALL those guys after this season. Someone has to go and it’s up to the Hornets whether or not that happens now or later. Once we get closer to the deadline, we’ll see where this shakes out.

[zwolf1224]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

Ahhhhhh. Sure is really nice to be back on the loving community of Operation Sports. Very, very nice updates since i have last logged on. I'm really enjoying the story (as always with trekfans work). Good job.

[petermc]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

Dude I love MKG i so hope you can land him in the free agency would be nice to see that conversation with Micheal Jordan haha

[trekfan]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

Man, the Twolves are playing me hard ... def. some bad blood here. We got fouls EVERYWHERE. Game recap soon. Stay tuned.

[trekfan]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

Rapid Reaction: Lakers 104, Timberwolves 84
By Rachel Hansen|ESPNLosAngeles.com
January 1, 2016

The Lakers (22-8) took on the Timberwolves (19-13) in Minnesota, ringing in the New Year with an old-fashioned beatdown. The Lakers came into the game with a serious chip on their shoulder after losing to the ‘Wolves in their previous meeting 114-104. In that game, the Lakers stars got their numbers but were outplayed by Monta Ellis, who had a ridiculous 44 points.

This game would not be like that for Monta. The Lakers came out and initially struggled to get their shot to fall. Luckily, the veterans on the bench stepped up. Gerald Wallace chipped in seven points in extended play in the first quarter, hitting a rare deep-ball much to the excitement of the Lakers bench.

David West also chipped in six points that quarter and the two veterans helped the Lakers establish a 22-13 lead heading into the second. It was in that quarter when Anthony Randolph would catch fire, going 5-for-5, getting Kevin Love in foul trouble, and being a force on the boards. He would finish with 18 points and 10 rebounds.

The Lakers started the third with a 52-38 lead. The ‘Wolves would never catch them. Monta Ellis went cold in the second half, only scoring four points to finish with 24 points overall. Jabari Parker caught fire in the third after a poor first half and finished the game with 28 points and 11 boards. He was named player of the game.

Kobe was quiet up until the fourth quarter, when he started hitting his mid-range shots and frustrating the ‘Wolves players. He finished with 20 points and five assists. Fouls were traded all game between the two teams, with Andrew Bogut and Nikola Pekovic both receiving technical fouls after a hard putback by Bogut. Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio both finished the game with five fouls apiece and under 15 points overall.

Here are three takeaways from the game:

Bench Bolsters

The Lakers bench has been conspicuously absent the last few games but managed to find their rhythm and spark in this one. Led by Gerald Wallace (eight points) and David West (seven points, six rebounds), the bench came through tonight during a sluggish first quarter.

“That’s what we want to see our guys do,” said Lakers coach Alvin Gentry. “We can’t always be one dimensional and rely on our starters alone. We have to be multi-dimensional. Any player we put out there can win us the game and we proved that with our guys tonight.”

Spider-Man Flies

Jabari Parker, AKA Spider-Man, has once again shown his hops. During the game Parker converted a multitude of high-flying dunks, but none so pretty as the cross-court pass to windmill, the assist coming from Kobe Bryant.

“I saw it and Kobe saw it and we just knew,” said Parker after the game. “We didn’t even look at one another. He just passed it to me and I finished it. That’s Vino for you.”

Timberwolves Angered

The ‘Wolves were visibly angry and frustrated at the game tonight. From frustration fouls to poor shots, the team wasn’t in synch.

“We got fouled hard and often and we didn’t get any calls,” said Kevin Love. “Pek was in there getting hammered and he got no calls. The only whistles we heard tonight were the refs whistling us.”

Coach Rick Adelman echoed similar thoughts.

“I’ve been coaching a lot of basketball games but I’ve never seen referees officiate so badly before. This was a disgrace and I’m going to be making sure the league office reviews this game in detail,” said Adelman.



The Lakers next play the 'Wolves on March 7th in LA.

[trekfan]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

BREAKING NEWS

Dirk Nowitzki has announced he will be retiring at the end of the season. Nowitzki is 37-years old and has concluded he can't play another NBA season.

"I want to finish my career a Maverick and that's what I plan to do," said Nowitzki. "I wish these last few years had been better ... I wish I could have brought another title to this great city. But it's time for me to move on and time for this franchise to move on without me. I will always be a Mav and Mark Cuban will always be one of my favorite people in the world."

Nowitzki is averaging a career low 9.0 PPG after being reduced to a sixth man this year. The Mavericks are currently 10-20 and rank near the bottom of the league in every category. Mark Cuban had this to say after the announcement:

"While I'm saddened to see Dirk retire, he has been the best player this franchise could have ever asked for. He's given his all, night in and out, and I will always be grateful he landed with us. He will always be loved and have a home here. Dirk and I will discuss privately what his future will be with us after the season but rest assured: if he wants to stay here, he will."

[SwooshTheHoop]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

Such a shame seeing Dirk retire, what a legendary player.

[trekfan]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story



1-8-16

He was nervous. He had never met anyone like this before, even as a manager of a bank. He handled tons of money for a living, saw hundreds of thousands of dollars go through his bank in a day, but he never quite felt as nervous about things as he did about this.

The upscale restaurant was abandoned. Closed for the night but not closed to him and not closed to the man he was meeting, Greg Ngami. Ngami had balked at Jarrod’s suggestion they meet at first … until Jarrod dropped the date his brother told him about.

From that point on, Ngami had been very accommodating. Jarrod wasn’t sure why but he felt unclean about it all. He had done everything right in life and had a pretty decent job. He made decent money, enough to take care of his mother, and live a decent life.

He didn’t have much time for socializing. He didn’t have the newest things. He didn’t have the charmed existence his brother had … he had worked, hard, for what he wanted. His brother had gotten his money through gang work. Beatings. Drug deals. Robberies. Whatever else he could do, Gerard had done it.

Jarrod had avoided that, thankfully. His life wasn’t marred by the blood of others.

“Jarrod?”

The question caused him to jump and he turned in his chair to find a very tall black man. “Mr. Ngami?”

The man nodded and he sat across from Jarrod. “I didn’t mean to startle you. I had other business to attend to … but I’m here now. And so are you.” He leaned back in his chair ever so slightly. “Do you know how much money your brother sent you here for?”

Jarrod shook his head, his glasses sliding a bit down his nose. He pushed them back up and answered, “I’m just here to get it and use it to get a lawyer. A really good one.”

“A lawyer?” Ngami asked with amusement. “Sounds very … honest.”

Jarrod stifled a chuckle. “I don’t know what he’s really going to use it for, but I don’t care. As long as he doesn’t involve me, I’m fine.”

“He has involved you. You’re here.” Ngami’s words were cold. “Do you realize what that means when your brother inevitably goes to jail again?”

Jarrod shifted uncomfortably in his chair. “I’m getting him the money. What he does with it is his choice.”

Ngami smirked. “I’m sure that’s exactly what he’ll say. Your brother doesn’t have anyone else to take the fall for him if he gets in trouble again. Except you.”

Jarrod stared at him. What Ngami was saying made sense but Gerard would never do that to him. They were brothers. He never tried to pull anything like that with him before. “I’m here for the money. Please.”

Ngami shrugged and hefted a large briefcase onto the table. The table creaked from the weight on it. “In this case is approximately 9.8 million dollars.”

“9.8 million?” Jarrod repeated, eyes wide. “But … but … how?”

“It’s his rainy day fund. Your brother has been pouring money into it for years.” He tapped his fingers on the case. “Of course, there’s no official record of ownership.”

“What --”


“I’ll be blunt.” Ngami leaned forward. “I hate your brother. I hate what he does. His methods are dirty, messy, and underhanded. He’s not my type of … businessman. You, on the other hand, work at a bank. You work with money.” Ngami’s eyes twinkled. “You work with numbers.”

Jarrod’s mouth went dry. “So?”

“So, crunch the numbers.” Ngami stood and his hand rested on the briefcase locks. “If you get dragged down with your brother, who takes care of your mother? She’s left with nothing.”

“I … I think I should leave.” Jarrod made a move to stand, but Ngami’s hand pushed him back into the chair.

“Let’s look at the numbers.” Ngami opened the briefcase.

Jarrod’s eyes went wide. He’d never seen so much money in one place.

“Think, Jarrod … your brother is in jail. He can’t hurt you. He can’t hurt your mother.” Ngami leaned into his ear. “And the money is here. Crunch the numbers … tell me what makes sense.”

Jarrod stared at the opened briefcase.

A smirk played at his lips.

[trekfan]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

Rapid Reaction: Lakers 101, Spurs 85
By Rachel Hansen|ESPNLosAngeles.com
January 9, 2016

The Lakers (26-9) took on the Spurs (19-16) in LA and an old rivalry again resumed. The Lakers and Spurs are no strangers to tough games and it looked like this one would be another classic chapter. The game began with Tyshawn Taylor exploding to the basket for a layup. The Lakers would struggle in the first half trying to stop Taylor, who handled the ball well and made the right play.

The Lakers would answer back with Jabari Parker, who is quickly rising up the ranks of NBA stars. Parker was given the keys to the offense midway through the first as Kobe and Anthony Randolph both struggled with their shot. Parker initiated the offense and showed Kawhi Leonard whom could score on whom.

By halftime the game was tied. But in the third quarter the Lakers would blow the lead wide open behind the play of Parker, Bogut, and Bryant. All three came out gunning and hot. The Spurs could not match them as Bogut dominated the inside and got the tough boards. He finished with 16 points and 10 rebounds.

Bryant, meanwhile, was content with toying with Brandon Knight and hitting his mid-range jumpers. He finished with 16 points, four boards, and four assists on 50 percent shooting. The real story of the game was Parker, who continued to pour in the points in the third and kept at it in the fourth.

It was in that crucial quarter where Parker would help expand the Lakers lead from nine points to nineteen at one point. Parker flew all over the court in a blur and the Spurs had no answers. Leonard fouled out midway through the fourth and the Spurs bench was just as helpless to stop the onslaught. Parker would be named player of the game with 34 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks n 13-of-21 shooting.

Here are three takeways from the game:

He’s Arrived

Jabari Parker has seemingly arrived and the rest of the NBA is taking notice. As the torch of best on-court player is passed from Kobe to Jabari in the Lakers locker room, the debate rages now across the league on whether Parker is proving that he’s not only the best Laker, but one of the best NBA players period.

League sources say Parker is currently in the lead in early MVP voting, trumping such stars as LeBron and Kevin Durant. If Parker would win the MVP, he’d accomplish something LeBron and Jordan both failed to do: win an MVP and title in his first two years in the league.

Burke Waits

The Trey Burke watch continues. Though the Lakers continue to be the best team in the NBA, Burke’s play has been erratic. In the Lakers previous game against the Kings, Burke’s erratic play helped the Lakers get stomped by them. A resolution to the situation is needed and soon, but when it happens is the question. The Lakers are indeed looking to move away from Burke and to another point guard, but who is the question and for what price.

Spurs Incensed

The San Antonio Spurs aren’t known as a team that gets angry but at the end of this game there was a clear disdain in their words. Before the end of regulation Jabari Parker took and hit a deep three, pushing the Lakers score into triple-digits and sending the crowd into a frenzy.

“He’s got killer instinct,” said an amused Kobe at the end of the game. “He put that final nail in there and he’ll need that. All the greats need that.”

Spurs player Kawhi Leonard had a very different take. “It was disrespectful. I get he wanted to just chuck it up there but that’s D-league stuff. There’s no need for that kind of stuff. I’ll remember that. He better believe I’ll remember that,” said a frustrated Leonard.

[trekfan]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

New Year, New Teams: NBA Sees Big Trades

By Rachel Hansen|ESPNLosAngeles.com

January 13, 2015


With the new year begins a whole new season as the NBA trade deadline is only a month and change away. Big time trades have hit the wire and the league could see these trades impact the championship picture this year. Here are the trades and the analysis, plus rumors floating around for the rest of the league.

The Trade: Clippers trade Chris Paul, Marc Gasol, and Pau Gasol for Jazz Darren Collison, Enes Kanter, Jajuan Johnson, and a 2016 1^st round pick (Lottery protected)


Analysis: It's not often we see a star play relocate willingly to a smaller market, but for Chris Paul that was exactly the play. Paul, like the Jazz franchise, is searching for his first title. The Jazz have played well all year long, holding onto a 22-15 record and look to secure a playoff spot. But there have been rumblings of discontent in the locker room between Kanter and Favors.

So, it was only natural that the Jazz trade Kanter away, along with Collison (a UCLA product), Johnson, and a first round pick. The Jazz receive back veteran leadership with championship credentials (Pau Gasol) and toughness.

The trade is great for both teams, as the Clippers get their big man of the future at the 5 while securing a draft pick for rebuilding. The Jazz now have the best PG in the game as well as two brothers hungry for a title. They're now championship contenders and, if if doesn't work out, they only made a two year investment (Paul has an opt out clause).


The Trade: Clippers trade Blake Griffin for Magic Noah Vonleh and a 2016 1^st round pick (top three protected)


Analysis: The Clippers unloaded their other star, Blake Griffin, to the Magic and make them the most fascinating young team going forward. Trading Vonleh and a 1st round pick was a steep price, but Vonleh has shown a distinct lack of discipline as he played with the Magic, averaging four fouls a game. His development seemed to be stuck and with Muhammad excelling, the Magic wanted to surround their young star with another star.

That star is Blake Griffin, who'll have to toil away this season in Orlando but should look forward to a very prosperous future with Muhammad and Mudiay.

Both teams come away happy, but the Clippers may end up happier in the short term. At least until the draft.

Trade: Lakers trade Trey Burke to Knicks for Tony Parker. Lakers trade Jose Calderon, Gerald Wallace, and a 2016 1^st round pick (unprotected) to Bobcats for Quinn Cook and Jeff Taylor.

Analysis: It wouldn't be a trade column without the Lakers and they struck, though not in the way some predicted. There were rumors the Lakers were looking at Kyle Lowry or Jeremy Lin, but instead of taking on their salary and baggage, the Lakers made a play for veteran Tony Parker.

Parker, the former Spur, just recently returned from IR after an extended period and the Knicks were in complete ruin. With no clear direction and Parker's veteran status, he requested a trade. The Knicks found him a home in LA and got back young Trey Burke, whom they hope will be their PG of the future. Burke, coming off a championship, now has the chance to show he's the best in the league.

Parker initially requested to be traded back to the Spurs but San Antonio was not interested, further damaging the relationship between the two. Parker ending up on the Lakers should be seen as a message to San Antonio.

The Lakers weren't done, though. With Burke now gone, they needed a PG to grow behind Parker. For that, GM Ronnie Gold called up his old boss and worked out a trade for Quinn Cook and Jeff Taylor. Cook was drafted to potentially replace Ryan Harrow but Harrow has blossomed this year and is excelling in running the Bobcats offense.

With Cook no longer needed the Bobcats had to find him a home. They did with LA. The Lakers sent away veteran Jose Calderon and Gerald Wallace, but both are heading to a contender. For Wallace, in particular, the return to Charlotte inspires good feelings.

"I loved every minute in LA and I thank them for helping me get a title, but I'm happy to be back in Charlotte ... I hope to bring them a title. It's good to be home," said Wallace.

Both teams come away winners in this trade, though the Bobcats look to be the better winner. Wallace and Calderon will provide solid minutes and veteran leadership, while the Lakers pick will likely be in the low 20s, it'll be a pick the Bobcats have and the Lakers don't.


Rumors:

The Rockets could be looking at a mess. Sitting at 18-20, the team is beginning to fracture according to sources. Blame is being passed around like a basketball and the blame is finding its way to Jeremy Lin and Josh Smith, two veterans who are on big contracts. If the Rockets can't make it above .500 before the deadline, expect the team to be blown up.

Kyle Lowry is also taking heat from some Raptors teammates, who believe he should be demoted to bench and Kabango should start. The Raptors sit at 16-22 and are well out of a playoff spot.

The Celtics are 18-19 and are sitting in the seventh playoff spot. Rumors continue to swarm that Danny Ainge is possibly looking to make a move to help bolster the Celtics. Who could be moved is the question, as the Celtics have a number of assets.

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

Tony Parker, have always admired his style of play in real life. Glad to see you acquired him. Good luck and great work.

[NewscasterNews4]

Re: The Gold Standard: The Ronnie Gold Story

I've been a silent follower so far, but nice work and I like the trade for Parker.