Deep Sixer

I knew it man, the other night in Arizona when Willie Green grabbed that important rebound and fell to the ground after he was fouled that Piece of Skata{Greek} Sammy was right next to him and instead of picking up his hustling teamate, he walked away. Winning doesn't matter to Sammy, it's all about him jacking up his shots. Either that or he is tired of us killing him in this blog this whole week. Sammy, your a heartless, dumb, and selfish player. I waited 6 years for you to box someone out, and now you pull this Skata? It is so clear now, for all the sammy haters and supportes that SAMMY MUST GO in the offseason.

SAM is just one of those guys who jokes around a bit and is a bit goofy as a personality.

His teamates probably shake their heads at times with Sam and tease him a bit and Sam feels at times it goes to far.

It will all be fine...the team will handle it internally and make sure Sam feels respected...that is all this is about...no big deal.

Marc - Agreed. Miller, Iggy, and Reggie need to sit Sam down and talk to him about the importance of his role on the team (and how he positively affects it when he's playing well, as evidenced by the last few games). With his contract, it's rather unlikely that he'll be moved in the next few years; he needs to understand his value to this franchise and what steady improvement in his growth will do for the success of this team going forward. There was an interesting article in ESPN the Magazine about 2 years ago on Sam after he signed his big deal...he's definitely a different cat than your average NBA player. There are things that are more important to him than basketball, specifically his homeland of Haiti. That said though, Sam has to realize that he's being paid richly for his services; he needs to put all of the above stuff secondary during the season and focus on the task at hand.

Iggy, Miller, and Reggie need to communicate this to him.

I started this list the other day, but didnn't get a chance to finish it. Now after reading Marc's blog about his comments last night I am steaming, and have decided to finish the list of all the Centers and big PF's that I would take over Sammy Stinka, not in order.

amare
gasol
ming
camby
okafur
howard
okur
aldridge
chandler
ben wallace
bogut
beidrins
kamon
shaq
b miller
horford
bynum
garnett
duncan
jeffferson
jermaine oneal
rasheed
david lee
brand
bosh
Dirk
boozer
west
scola
wilcox, not an idiot like same
odom
kenyon martin
diop, much smarter then the stinka
noah,young fellow has heart and smarts
oden

Young dudes that i would take over dumb Sam
landry
tyrus thomas
sean williams
big baby
Hawes

Thats FOURTY BIGS, Sam your gargbage. Know your role and shut your mouth!

John, it is a big deal. Like Marc said, you can't write this off as Sam being Sam. Thats not the attitude that we need around this team. Let Sam be Sam with the clippers or anywhere else. With our young crew, we don't need any cancers in the lovker room.

If we had a power forward with more offensive skills we'd score 10 more points a game just from the beautiful passes thrown to Reggie that he either lets slip out of his hands, or fails to do anything with right underneath the basket.

I love that guy with his motor, but he's a black hole on offense. Abraham Nunez like.

Sam Dalembert is angry, then maybe he should play angry more often. He was pretty mean out there last night.

Wilcox showed some nice game backing down Jason Smith, and he does look like he'd fit in here. But I wished he'd be a stronger rebounder and defender for him to have a place in this team. I didn't see him around on all those put back dunks and Sammy's alleyoops we had.

Iguodala needs to be paid this summer. Almost nothing else except Larry Fitzgerald will satisfy me following a move to let him go. His game has elevated, he deserves the money. He's a special player, and Ed better not get Phillies with us.

And I love Greek food, but The Greek is leaving nasty tastes in my mouth, and he needs to stop.

Dear Sammy,
Your role is to be the starting center on our playoff bound, soon to be 6th seeded, 76ers. You need to be a strong defensive player, shot blocker, and you need to use your limited offensive moves in the most beneficial way possible. You need to stay out of foul trouble. You need to limit those games where you are invisible. About that guy on the bench with the championship ring and the Hall of Fame credentials as a player, he may be doing the best coaching job in the NBA right now, listen to him.
Finally, the $50 million dollars you are receiving, you kind of need to do what they tell you after you get the money.

Marc, your absolutely right that Sam spoke out of turn if what he said was as it was described in the Jasner article. I actually didnt catch the interview (though im sure they'll run it on DNL and sportsnite all week), but an article on ESPN seemed to give his comments a little more balance. At any rate, though, you're right that players shouldn't be airing things like that in front of the fans and media.

when i commented that i was happy to see hum angry, i was referring to his play...I've thought for a while that we needed more mean on the court, and im glad to see him bring it for a change. Sorry Greek, but when he's playing like that there's not really that many guys i'd take over him. But since you've included guys regardless of whether they're available, I'll take Garnett and Duncan. and while we're at it, lets sign LeBron, Kobe, and Chris Paul. Seriously though, We all know Sam has his flaws on the court but when he plays like he did last night I'm absolutely fine with it. Mean suits him real well.

And also in his defense (never thought i'd say it), if its true that they don't have a full time bigs coach for him, I can understand his being a bit miffed with the team. Actually i think its good he's miffed with the team (if that is true) because it means hes smart enough to know he needs that coaching and wants to improve enough so that it bothers him when he struggles.

BUT, absolutely right that someone needs to talk to him to keep his mean in check. save it for the other team, big fella.

Sam is a head case, and it holds back his game big time. How many times does it seem like he has a brain cramp on the court? When his teammates are able to get him the ball on a lob, like last night, he can be very effective on the offensive end (by the way, Dre passed up several shots to get Sammy a oop last night). But when he has to create, well, he can't. He needs to recognize his limitations, and figure out how to concentrate all the time. Maybe he needs some meds.

Come on Sammy! We'd all love those millions. How'd you like to work in the real world without the millions?

Get out of the funk and play ball. 32 minutes a game and he's disappointed on how he is being handled? I guess the coaching staff is prodding for more and he can't handle the criticism? He just wants to shoot the rock from 18 feet.

Just do it and stop the whining. He's got to get mentally tougher. Time to grow up.

About a big man coach, how do you teach hands? You either have that or you don't, right?

Here's my guess...

Sam has been unhappy about them not replacing Moses Malone all year...as we can all tell, he had a major impact on Sam's mentality on the court.

He probably asked Stefanski if he could get another coach for big men and Stef told him that the coaching decisions are made by Mo. When mo said he liked his staff and that Sam always has access to Moses even if he's not in person all the time, Sammy got disappointed. I would assume he was either told or took the message as "you are getting 10 million a year and we want you to rebound and block shots - this isn't high school - you're getting paid and we'll send you to Memphis or Sacramento if you keep complaining - we really want you and you need to accept your role on the team, which is certainly not insignificant"

With the travel last week and all the practices this week it mighta popped up b/c everyone has been together.

just my $0.02

Km, I ofcourse it wasn't a list of available players. Just a list of every big 4 or 5 that is more valuable then the overpaid Sammy.

And Dave, the Sammy bashing will not stop. 27 years of following this team gives me the right to kill the dogs/cancers. I see that you have negative words for my man Reggie Evans. Not wise, Reggie Evans is good enough to be a key role player off the bench on a championship team. He is that good off the bench. Offensively limited yes, but who else has his heart, hustle, and desire on D?

Dean, agree 100%. The leaders of this team need to speak to this moron asap.

Early in the year it appeared that Reggie was pushing Sam and he was responding with good effort. Maybe Reggie's pushing is getting old and Sammy is getting tired of it and no longer responding.

I hope Reggie slaps him around at the next practice.

Sixer fans it's very frustrating to here Sam Dalembert's comments. I agree with almost everyone and everything people say about him.
Sam just seems to show up about every 4th or 5th game and things we all should flip over is play or lack there of. His 22pts and 13Rebs will now disapear for the next 3 or 4 games. Please sammy read this and get mad I would love you to prove all of us Sixer fans wrong.

Does everyone watch real close how sammy plays against the top flight centers in the league he is basically non-existant most games. The sixers lost twice to the Lakers this year you how and why they beat us both times see Sammys fine defense and offense against Andrew Bynam.
The Lakers stud center Andrew Bynam plays hard every night.You also notice how Dwight Howard,Al Jefferson,Yao Ming kill sammy as well.Please note we could keep adding other centers names in the NBA to the list but I dont want Sammy to get to depressed over his poor play and why the sixer fans are so critical of him.
All sixer fans know Sammy needs to get his butt into the gym and bulk up and put some musle on his body and stop crying because he gets beat up and gets in foul trouble by bigger and stronger players and then gets his minutes reduced. Lets call a spade a spade and let Sammy know if he works hard we will support him like the other sixer players. I used to be a big Sammy fan till he started crying and complaining and not working on getting his upper body so he can be more Physical so he can over come some of these issues.
Last but not least Sammy your not Kevin Garnett stop shooting 18 ft jumpers stay around the rim and shoot 10 footers and play to your skills. Stupid play puts you on the bench!

Dave, shame on you for talking of Reggie in Negative terms. Also, does anyone know where Derrick Byars is?

In a playful, multi-dimensional, easily distracted personality like Dalembert exhibits, the problem with "mean" is, it is an accrued conditioned, pent up and then released through physical energy expenditure and verbal spouting (as in last night, on and off court); it's dependably transitory. In one like him, "mean" can't sustained as he's essentially laid-back. King either ignored or minimized this key personality trait prior to imprudently offering a kettle of silver and gold medallions (after an auspicious Pistons playoff series). Constitutionally speaking, Maurice Lucas, Sam's not. Maybe Joe Strawder, Otto Moore or Leroy Ellis are the apt (but admittedly dated) comparatives. Sixer's have a poor man's Caldwell Jones on their hands long-term by their own design.

Dalembert's politically incorrect post-game remarks upset some. What's a little candor in a long, apparently suffocating-to-Sam season? If a squad and organization can't incorporate the personal truth of one of its members, the long-term prospective is dismal, portending eventual severance. In my opinion, there seems to be an overeaction to his expression. I'm not overly fond of Sam's game but I respect his keeping it real, Sam's World edition. Some will counter that his remarks should've been made privately. Perhaps so, but a little mercy goes a long way.

Sammy gets plenty of minutes and has a very, very generous contract. Kevin Ollie, Miller, and Iggy, if he is the leader he says he wants to be, need to pull im aside and set him straight. If Aaron McKie was around, he could help with this.

Sammy keeps this up and he'll be traded in the off season for Josh Smith.
But I'd take a Sammy for Wilcox and Petro trade..Petro is puting up solid rebounding numbers these days and we wouldn't need to score, just rebound, block some shots and hustle. This trade would work for both teams.

Sammy has been frustrating to watch until last night. He should play mad more often. His head was actually in the game. Before last night players would get penetration and Sam wasn't ready to catch the ball, even though he was in position to score the ball. Sam has played with these guys long enough to know be ready for a pass. Also on defense, guys have been getting to the rim too easy. It seems like Sam is in position to at least challenge a shot, but appears to not make an effort to do so. I know foul trouble can be an issue, but many times they are guys much smaller than Sam, which he should be able to at least alter the shot, if not block it. If he keeps his head into playing ball and not worry about what the media or general public has to say about him, he could be a dominant player every time he steps on the floor.

jumpin, having a hard time interpreting your lingo but I'm with you. Sixers just need strong leaders and positive personalities to make up for Sammy's difficiencies in those departments. Sammy's not a bad guy.

Fortunately, towards the end of BK's regime he really looked at the personality/character not just the talent of the players he brought into the organization(No A.I.'s, CWebb's or D.C.'s). See the link below.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3283247

Dalembert's comments are poorly timed. He should keep these types of things private, but NBA teams are filled with idiots. We had to put up with 7 seasons of Iverson's bickering and Dalembert won't tear this team apart.

He just needs to actually believe that winning is more important than his selfishness. Sammy is being immature and it's not the end of the world. The Sixers have to keep winning.

sfw,

Good link, thanks. Pacers, a long proud tradition, are a present PR mess.

Feedback on posting appreciated. Next time I write, I'll keep your comment in mind.

I agree, Sam's not a bad guy; he just isn't a dyed-in-the-wool hooper. Mesh his athletic ability with Evan's tenacity and Miller's poise and you'd have a Super Big.

I understand where Sam is coming from. For Christ Sake people he has played his entire career with Allen Iverson and I imagine he envisioned his emancipation would have included more touches in the post now that cancerson is gone. Yet when I watch games even these teammates dont look for him. Granted at this point he's still raw but he has shown growth everytime he gets touches. I happy he wants the ball a little attitude will serve him well when he has to go against REAL centers. He's played with Iverson longer than anyone on the team...Its abput time he started barking. Him wanting the ball wont ruin team chemistry its going to cause them to respect him more. They will see he has some fire in him and it comes at perfect timing. Good for u Sam

Like I said this morning: I'm just glad to see that he has a pulse. It's at least obvious to me now that he really does "give a s%!t." This really is a good thing!

More importantly, how do we find out exactly where in Europe Stef is, and who exactly is Stef 'personally' scouting? I'm dying to know. C'mon posters, one of you guys must have a way to get this intel.

Marc,

as usual thanks for the great forum. The INQ/DN ownership must be lovin' the interest and responses your little blog attracts. Thanks again!

....And where pray tell is our GM. If he is overseas scouting talent I've got to know where......and who? Any inside info Marc?

Posters, any of you know who is "tearing it up" in the Euro Leagues this year?

Goodness men, some people were gushing over this team's chances for a championship in the comments over the last article, and in this one people are calling Dalembert a "cancer". Both ridiculous. Take a chill pill and wash it down with some vodka.

I, for one would like to see the man play like last game every game. For you that are giving long lists of "skata" about the list of bigs you would take instead of Dalembert, which of those can we actually afford, and which of those are available? Don't waste our time- some of us just skip right over your list anyway.

They just won a game and the team's not pissed at Sam. Just let them play, and at least wait till they lose to kill the guy. For Sammy: play like you did last game every time, and we'll all love you.

Sixersguy, I read your WHOLE post and I agree. Some of these Nationally known reporters that have roots in our area are slower or reluctant than everybody else to give the sixers credit when they should been aware of them first. It doesnt make any sense. First we are the worst team in the league now that we are overcoming we cant get no love? Just because we are seen as a early exit playoff team? Portland got some and they arent even in a major market. You brought and highlighted something I was thinking but I glad no one thinks much of us... Nobody will ever see us coming so as far as reporting goes I hope we are seen as garbage. No press is good press when your team is underrated. They'll never see us coming

dalambert doesnt know what hes complaining about,so how can we?....he wants more minutes?......stay out of foul trouble sammy and you might see more

Xing, you read long enough for me to teach you a Greek word. Use it wisely. The list was just to see where sam ranks, there are 40 bigmen that I would rather have then him. Don't like the list then gamisou!

We ought to bring in Z.Randolph, Sam needs to be around some quality people.Just kidding!!!!Jumpin Johnnie, maybe Caldwell could teach Sam his jumphook? Carney!s boxscore lines are getting to be well rounded, the light is on and somebody is finally home!! Thad!s ability to score on the block is really helping the team.Most teams have 1 high energy player, we seem to have 4 [Thad,Jason,Reggie and Rod].Seems our spacing and passing in 1/2 court is improving, it will come in handy come playoff time. Wilcox looked good but he seems very inconsistant, check out his next boxscore!!

Jimmy, rumor has it Ed is having the Europians jump over cars as we speak.

By the way Klove looked slow and unathletic against Cal today BUT they won coming back again.

Also, miss the days when ESPN played the late saturday college games. Since they now have that so-called sport Autoracing NCAA BBALL has lost out. Miss those days............

I saw KLove the other night against stanford...Solid skills, lots of heart, but definitely a step slow. All things considered, i prefer DJ White but wouldn't necessarily complain if we draft Love.

Oh, by the way, the worst thing about Sammy's comments is they had us talking about him all day. There were much better storylines in the game than that one, its too bad that it stole the spotlight.

KM, he has all the intangibles but just don't know. He could be perfect in the low post for us and he/Reggie/JasonS could be a great combination. Once he tightens up that body he could be a man in the NBA(boozer with a different game). We'll see. Like to see him come here.

I had a preminition recently. Wouldn't surprise me if we through in the UTAH pick to move up in the first round and get the man Ed wants. That should move up 3-5 spots if necessary

SAMMIE was just brushing his shoulders off!Bringing that attitude to his game, which we all know..that's what he badly needs. But last night was just another night of what i been seeing in SAMMIE all year!..and that"s hold it down! Taking nothing away from R.EVANS, but i can't i can't wait until we get that needed PF. That's just me,.. A-M!.. and i'm out!

SAMMIE was just brushing his shoulders off!Bringing that attitude to his game, which we all know..that's what he badly needs. But last night was just another night of what i been seeing in SAMMIE all year!..and that"s hold it down! Taking nothing away from R.EVANS, but i can't i can't wait until we get that needed PF. That's just me,.. A-M!.. and i'm out!

seude,

Liked that little jump hook too, huh? Read somwhere that 'the Doctor' was really sorry to see Caldwell go to Houston in Malone trade. CJ, one of my favorite all-time Sixers: effective, played strong D, rebounded, blocked shots, worked within his limitations, loved ball, didn't hoot 'n holler, punched clock regularly. Played in 1,424 pro games (including playoffs). Started 77 games at age 37 for Trailblazers. His first pro coach: Wilt Chamberlain, San Diego Conquistadors. Go to http://www.remembertheaba.com/TributeMaterial/CaldwellJones.html for some good stuff.

I don't have a problem with Sammy's comments at all as long as he plays like he played last night. He wants more minutes. Fine. With this team and its lack of frontcourt talent, he needs to be on the floor as many minutes as possible.

He wants a big man coach? Fine. Get him one fulltime. With Sam, Jason Smith, Herbert Hill and this year's no. 1 pick and no. 2 pick, the coach should have plenty of bigs to work with.

He has complaints about how Mo Cheeks has played him and what's expected of him on the court? Cool. Just go out there and dominate and you can then do what you want.

Guys, I still think that Ron Artest could be in a 76er uniform before it is all said and done this summer. Stephen A. maintains that Stefanski showed and continues to show legitimate interest in Artest. I have no problem with bringing an all-star in his prime to this team, especially since you don't have the cap room to get a Josh Smith, E. Brand or Shawn Marion.

Draft Kevin Love or one of Stefanski's known big man Euro PFs, sign Artest and get me a cheap shooter. That'll have to do until the trade deadline for this team to improve itself.

Your thoughts?

Datruth,
Artest has a player option for next year. Don't know how that works. Wouldn't mind him for 1 year. Not sure above that but I like your ideas.

Sammy

Please keep your negative comment behind close doors. Because the media and fans will eat you alive. If you don't like the coach tell him, if you don't like the players, tell them. Don't tell us(fan and media)! If you need a big man coach, seek one privately, get your own coach!
If nobody is listening to you, then you seek a trade, but don't tell the media. If you get angry
,get angry at your opponent, not your team mates.
AI is one the greatest player to every play the game, and look were complain got him. OUT OF HEAR! as the philly announcer says.

Since you want to get personal, the Greek/40 bars, I also am of ethnic descent and could easily go blow for blow with you. That wouldn't solve anything. I wasn't here to do so, I don't think that's what Mr Narducci would like. If you want to talk Sixers, fine.. answer the question in my post earlier. I wasn't trying to single you out, but rather to state that we need to improve, and do we have the means to get any of those guys you listed? I personally have no special affection for any player on our team unless they're playing well. Sammy's not migliore amico, but he played well last game. A dopo ometto.

Wir sind alle von ethnischer Herkunft. Sammy ist, wer Sammy ist. Gehen wir, Sixers! Friedan Aus.

40bars,

Last I saw, Byars was playing in Europe (I believe for a German team).

Lots of the video on him in college - he looks like a fairly good shooter with athleticism...

Playing in Europe was what the Sixers wanted him to do form the beginning, but since they waived him, I think they lost his rights... too bad, he would have been worth a look next year.

As always, there's a little bit of truth in everyone's comments. Is Sammy worth $50 million? No. Does he try hard? Yes. Does he do stupid things sometimes? Yes, but I don't think it's because he's not trying, he just looks like basketball doesn't come naturally to him.

One of the problems sammy has is that when Evans plays with him there is no offensive threat in the low box. If Sammy played with a Garnett, Duncan or Stoudamire he could concentrate on playing good defense, rebounding and getting points on garbage shots. I love the way Evans plays the game but no one's going to leave Sammy to double him any time soon.

I look at Sammy and do give him credit that he's always working hard, unlike some other big men in the last decade (Mr. Webber, Mr. Coleman and Mr. Big Dog).

KMG, I hear you on many of your points, but I don't blame Evans for Sam's troubles. Sam hadn't developed an offensive go to move for five years before Evans got here and still doesn't have one.

If anything, I think Evans has been big for Sam and big for this team. You notice no one has said anything about the 76ers rebounding problems since he got here? That's because he's helped make them one of the top rebounding and defensive teams in the league. He's also done something that Dalembert and his teammates haven't done for years -- and that is put some wood on some people.

Evans has single handledly made this a more physical team. The more people that they get on this team that score will make Evans a more effective player because he can just come in and do his thing.

Would anyone be interested in a combo package of Ron Artest and PF Kevin Love or one of Stefanski's big euro PF finds in this draft?

A starting 5 of Sam, Thad or R. Evans at PF, Artest, Iggy and Miller would lead the NBA in steals and be a top 5 team in the league defensively next year.

Sam has played every game the last two years, he rebounds, and he blocks shots. He, along with Willie Green, get way too much grief on this board. Sam is not a great offensive player, but he is certainly amongst the better centers in the league. His comments are puzzling, but he has never been a cancer on the team, and I don't think that he is now.

Big man coach?

Steve Mix is available........

You are absolutely correct.  I can't believe  the team does not have a big man coach for Sam.  How could you possibily expect to teach a raw talent without one.  Shame on the Sixers for not factoring that in.  I know Sam has been there for six years.  However, they knew he required special training when selected him.  Yes he makes mistakes and sometime gets lost on the court.  But you can also see his team mates places him in some of those positions due to there inability to cover.  Give the guy a break.  He should have spoken up about needing a personal coach sooner.   About the above list of players you would take before Sam, it just sounds like you're just hate'n man.  His overall stats and being available to play every night ain't bad.

Sam's comments are disturbing considering the delicate state of the franchise. While they have been overperforming for the second half of this year so far, we have to remember that the Sixers still have a long way to go. Let's just hope the media doesn't decide to blow Sammy's grievances out of proportions or else there is the potential for 1) an even more frustrated Sammy being egged on by stupid reporter comments and 2) the fragile balance and drive that this team has found being destroyed.

Look at the teams on the rise over the past few years that have been destroyed because of bad locker room relations brought on by stupid comments by people involved with the franchise: Sacramento, Indiana, Chicago, New York, NJ, (and almost the Lakers).

I'm hoping this blows over now. There is nothing more poisonous to a young team than someone making comments like this every night, though, especially when what they have been doing recently has worked so well. It destroys confidence and trust. If I were running the Sixers, I would take the following steps:

1. Get Sammy a big man coach immediately. Come on, there's no way this can hurt.
2. Talk to Sammy, let him know how important he is to the team, and emphasize the fact that the Sixers are out there as an organization TO WIN and that the team will always do what seems right in the big picture. If he feels he is underutilized at certain times, he can show that he should be on the court more by working hard to make the most of his game time and really impressing in practice.
3. Monitor this guy. Another interview like this and there will be trade rumors all over the internet. This can only erode a young big's confidence. If it looks like he cares more about his own performance than the teams, he needs to go this summer.

As for Sammy's contract, I think that it is very reasonably priced considering what he brings to the table... *as long as he is willing to accept his role on the team*. He needs to realize that his team's performance is as important to his value as a player in the NBA as his stats. Here's hoping this was a one-time outbreak, because I think that a happy, efficient Sammy could be a great foundation at the right price for a competitive playoff team.

This isn't the first time this moron has said something along these lines-remember when he was talking about Jim O'Brien returning with the Pacers and said something like, "We were winning, but it wasn't fun".

The guy doesn't realize he's not there to have fun. He's making enough money that he can go out and buy fun.

If Stefanski can get anything for this clod, he'd be the best Sixer GM since Pat Williams.

In defense of Sam, human being, albeit very wealthy one,

"It's got to be the going, not the gettin' there that's good." - the late Harry Chapin

O'Brien should try the Iditarod.

Interesting matchup today; Milwaukee has major problems, yet has a lot of talent, wonder if Yi will be too tired to play. Bogut is not helping this team win, is he a future star,[#1 pick in whole draft] or just a role player like Sam.Going to watch Villanueva close today, he may be available on the cheap over the summer, he!s too similar to Yi and seems they have invested their future in Yi.Talk about a team that could use a R.Evans type player!!!!

Wow, we're still talking about Sam, huh. How about another topic, Marc? I think we were all a little surprised by Sam's comments, And yeah they were maybe a bit out of line. But honestly, that stuff happens in sports. Its not as if he called out a teammate, so im not really seeing the whole locker room cancer thing at all. No one got on Hamels when he asked for a chiropractor, and honestly if Sam really doesn't have a big man coach full time then he should darn well have one. And cheers to him for realizing that, maybe he's realizing you need to practice hard and well to get better. I will say that i dont like the complaining about minutes to the press thing, though. That is overstepping a bit, and could lead to some locker room issues. But seriously, can we talk about something else unless he keeps running his mouth?

Read an article recently that said Portland wasn!t happy with their having to rotate 3 players at their p.g. position.Blake[best defender], Jack[best scorer] and Rodriguez[ best playmaker].They would like to get 1 person to run the position, that!s why they wanted D.Harris. The fact that Jack and Outlaw were mentioned as going in the deal got me to thinking.If A.Miller, over the summer, lets E.S. know he doesn!t want to reupp or he wants too much money[12 mill. or more] when his contract is up , how about this proposal? A.Miller,Booth[ if he uses his option], and H.Hill to Portland for Outlaw, Jack, and Pryzbilla. Against certain centers[ Howard,Curry,Yao,etc. it would be nice to have a physical player as an option against these players, Pryzbilla is a good defender,rebounder and shotblocker. Jack could battle L.Will. for the starting p.g. position and Outlaw could play next to Thad or rotate with him at the 3.I think this is doable but only if A.Miller doesn!t want to be here.

Good morning blogsville,

One question for you guys. Why don't I see the name Mikel Pietrus' in the trade talk. The guy is 6'9", who can play the 3 or 4 spot, has killed the sixers with his outside shot, and doesn't seem like the shooter you sacrifice defense for, and lastly wants to be traded. We need a shooter, but not the type you can't have on the floor in crunch time because of defense. Eddie S, will you please bring him in, he would fit into our style of play. With a player like that, I might be willing to trade Carney before giving him another season to show what hes got.

Pietrus is 6!6" and it seems he!s had chances, big minutes, over the last 3 years to prove himself. He does defend but don!t know if he is an upgrade over Carney who is the same size.

(last I read about Byars, he had played in Koln for the 99ers, a team with some vague sixers connection. However, the team, despite being a league champion the year before, went under around the first of the year.)

Sammy said he's finally feeling some love from Mo, and wishes he had a big man coach to continue to improve his game. (It wouldn't hurt Jason either.) And he's a little irritated. Pretty strong stuff, huh?

A. Miller to Portland is not out of the question but don't want Blake in return OR a rotational system at point guard here. More than satisfied with Miller time!

I think Sammy's full of Sh!!!!!T. Big man coach dedicated to Sammy? At that level all of those coaches know the drills. I'm sure they spend plenty of time with Sammy. His time is here and now. Time to step up. What we see is what we got. Just need an offensive 4 to take some of the offensive pressure off Sammy. We've said it all on this blog.......

After seeing a TV special displaying how Hakeem spends so much time helping Yao, shown the same day that these Sam grumblings were reported, I cant blame Sam for blowing off some steam.

I am incredulous that any NBA franchise would not find it imperative for the Bigs to have their own Assistant Coach of some repute as a former player to be always available, who has a least desire and a minimum of teaching, communication skills to lend the expertise so few have to start with.

There are, after all, how many 7 feet ex-NBA players in all within the past 10-15 years.

7 footers are a rare enough breed; they deserve their own Asst Coaches who are the only ones that can truly relate to their on Court, unique play roles that are unlike all others.

Paul, Just have to disagree.

Its all good. You see that Hakeem special? No idea if the timing re Sam's "blowoff" was a coincidence, but if we were Sam, we would be envious. No?

Agreed! It makes sense that a big man can communicate his experiences. Just seems like a retention thing with Sam or maybe just a built in excuse since he's not getting the attention he thinks he deserves. Had Moses/Mix for a while. Guess it didn't stick.

Moses after all had a style of play that was sheer power, while a sure he gave Sam valuable pointers, there could not be 2 more polar opposite physical presences as those two, or opposite roles for their respective teams.

Odds are the media blew it out of proportion anyway, without first delving more into trying to get at root of any knee jerk aspects that were simmering then in Sammys head.

Bet its a story with zero legs, other than as cited above. Here today, gone tomorrow. My gut says.

Its funny that Moses was like a 7 foot monster version of Reggie who also, obviously, could find the cup, if it took 2 or 5 tries through sheer monster power and strength.

Oh, well. Reggie prolly got more out of Moses than Sam ever could.

Marc -

Today's game is starting at noon in Milwaukee, essentially being 11 AM. Knowing NBA players' partying habits, I feel like everyone could be massively hungover and sluggish today. Do you think this is a legit concern? Basically, the team that rested the best last night will win.

Suede,

What do you mean pietrus is not an upgrade over carney? Do you mean over next the 3-5 years as an upgrade. And if so I still disagree. Pietrus is an important player for a western conference playoff team. Carney is marginally important for an eastern conference team that hasn't made the playoffs since 2005. Its not that I don't like carney. He is whicked fast, I mean whicked fast. But his jumper doesn't come close to pietrus'. I do think carney will be a solid pro and has potential to be one of those invaluable wingmen who will stop a franchise player by committee, but pietrus is already there. By the time we wait for carney, one of our other important players might be gone.

Andrew Bogut better than Sam Dalembert?! Yall some drunk #$% fans. lol

Bogut better than who? Some of yall shouldn't even be allowed to post

Yall wanna trade Iggy for who? How about we give Ed the one deal since he hasnt proven anything except he can give away cheap valuable labor for absolutely nothing and we extend Cheeks for 4 yaers...Bum

Yeah Sam looks fine to me. I'm sure glad alot of you dont have any player personnel jobs

Carney's shot seems to be falling lately too. Its amazing what a little playing time will do for you...Its also an amazing coincidence how certain posters only come around during loses and how I havent seen certain ones come out in a long time. They only come around to justify obscene trade proposals. But when things are going well you hear nothing from them...Sam Dalembert 4 bogus?...Nevermore...

Andrew Bogut better than Sam Dalembert?! Yall some drunk #$% fans. lol

Yep, Sam played decently again vs the Bucks. Hope he's turned the corner this time.

1 point and 2 rebounds and he is better than Sam? lol hahahahahahaha

Pietrus makes an interesting case. Anyone who watched the GS-Dallas series last year knows how dangerous this guy is, especially in the open court. His jumper is certainly better than Carney's at this point and he is more experienced. To be honest, I don't see too many problems with Pietrus' game at all. His style would fit beautifully with the 76ers as he is hyper athletic and willing to put out extra defensive effort.

With that said, Pietrus is 6'6" and couldn't lay a finger on Iggy or Thad. He could probably become one of the better sixth men in the league and would give Philly incredible depth. But isn't he getting out of GS because he is unhappy not being a consistent starter? While I am usually a proponent of picking up good players regardless of position, Pietrus' history and contract would be unnecessary risks for a team that has a clear direction and knows what they need to succeed.

Sam looked great again today and people who want to get rid of him are nuts.

I think Sam would be happy if they gave him 10 lob passes a game. He could get 20 and 10 every night, a couple of blocks and be worth his contract and the team would win. We should all be unhappy whenever Sam doesn't get 20 and 10 every night.

Even if the other Center is effective, if Sam is getting 20 and 10 whatever they do won't be so damaging.

The Sixers are starting to play basketball as a team, they look to run, look to pass, look to get easy buckets. Sam going to the hoop is an easy bucket, simple as that.

Every player has weaknesses and deficiencies. The whole point of coaching is to maximize their strengths. Sam doesn't have to be a great back to the basket player to be effective. He can certainly beat players to the basket and get above them to catch the pass.

Nothing would be more demoralizing to another team than to find they couldn't stop the Sixers from lobbing the ball into Dalembert above the rim. It should be an option on a lot of their plays.

It is absurd that they don't have someone working with Sam all the time. Your paying him all this money to be your starting center. He is an asset that you have invested in. It is imperative that you maximize that asset by doing everything possible to improve his abilities and teach him skills that will enhance his effectiveness.

You can teach someone to have better hands through repetition. Practice helps a lot with motor skills. Sam should be dribbling the ball around his house!

Sam would be better if we had an effective Power Forward who could score. Reggie definitely is a big help, but even he would be the first to tell you he's not about scoring.

In fact, the whole team would be better with a good power forward. And, if the young players continue to develop there's no reason that they couldn't contend with the top teams in the NBA.

They have a decent defense, and their offense is getting better all the time, even in the half-court. They are an above average rebounding team, and have an edge in speed and athleticism.

Tomorrow is a real test. Beating Boston would be huge for this team. It would be the first win since Orlando against a team that is still on top. Both Dallas and Phoenix have turned out to be weaker teams over the past 10 games. But Boston has been as hot as any team in the league since their little 3 game hic-cup.

The whole next week would be tough on any team. It is possible for the Sixers to shock the league if they can beat Boston, Detroit, Denver or San Antonio.

Thats a damn disgrace... Hahahahahahahahaha how is a starting center in the nba going to score 1 point in a whole. That means he didnt score 1 point ...At least Sam manages a double double with some blocks EVEN when he doesnt get the ball. Bogut pulled down a pathetic two rebounds. Are you kidding me!? 2 rebounds when you are starting?! Nevermore...

That direction being picking up an offensive power forward and a shooter off the bench at 2 or 3 that is not also a defensive liability.

Even as a Celts fan, I am impressed with these Sixers. They integrate everyone into their offense, and are hellacious on the D.
And am dead serious.

Kinda being built as the anti-Iverson as to sharing the load on any given night. They are priortizing force-feeding Young into their flow, which makes them even scarier. Very unselfish, BRIGHT FUTURE there you guys got. I like Ja Smith too, 2 bright rookies.

Sam most of his points on fadeaways drives to the baskets jumpshots and some complementary lobs...Another drunk fan still unable to the positives. Sam even made some very good passes. Sorry kiddo Sam scored most of his points on offensive moves not lobs...drunk fans

I still cant get over 1 point and 2 rebounds on 27minutes played...he could have at least rebound the ball. Maybe even score off a put back. But for a minute lets just ignore the Sam comparison. What starting center gets 1 point and 2 rebounds? He's not even fit for a NBA team. He should be playing soccer or a backup center for turkey. Andrew Bogus? I hope none of yall ever ever ever ever ever ever bring him up into this forum again or yall gonna get it. lol

So according to Hugh, Mad Housewife for no reason, Zara, and now The Greek..and some newbies..."1 point and 2 rebounds" is better than Samuel Dalembert. Yall drunk as hell

Zeru,

Ese up on Bogut. The dude, had a real off-game, yet had 6 plus dimes. Dont judge a guy on a 1 game basis, who knows what caused such aberration.

He has had some tremendous games also. All these Centers, w a few exceptions, are eccentrics, at times.

If he does THAT well against teams like Utah, and with his PG out, who knows.

He and Sam are different animals. But puhleeeze, Bogut merely had an off game for whatever reason, though he did dish very well.

Ask me? God knows what Bucks game plan was. Thats Q 1. Ask Kristoviach (phonentic version) first.

Guess your just responding to the Drunks above. lol.

Dude is still 22-23. Let him grow. You are killing him! That aint right.

beantown, Celtics/Sixers playing the right way. Built different ways. You're there in a hurry. We're still building. Right now rather be you BUT in 2 years.............

With numbers like that i'll take CALVIN BOOTH over Andrew bogus. bum

Another great team effort today.

Play tough and together against the Celtics, fellas.

Go, Sixers!

Lord, I think the joint will be jumping tomorrow evening. Can't wait.

Zeru/Frank, We could pick out a couple Sammy games to compete with Bogut's today. Different styles but both inconsistent. Most centers in the NBA seem to be similar in that respect....

Zeru,

lol

Just bringing up the name Calvin Booth, and having to visualize his ugly puss, makes me LMAO. Poor dude.

You get my drift. I hear ya too.

What did they open the bars at 6AM today?

SFW,

Exactly.

Everybody lighten up and enjoy the ride. There aint any downside, and its fun.

The only thing that irritates me is that it sounds like our boy Marc, King of Blogs, has to fly commercial.

Let our boy Marc on the dang team Charter. Snider, get him their own plane, like most NBA teams. You are a COMCAST VIP, NO??

Its all Sniders fault, Marc is the Fans VIP. Wake up, Ed.

Frank,

I dont need my center give me 7 assist. A center is supposed to protect the basket..The Sixers scored so many points in the paint I didnt even Bogus was playing until his own announcer put his numbers up with disgust. My center is supposed to rebound. 2 Rebounds in 27 minutes?! Guards rebound better than that. And centers are supposed to score because they are the tallest guys and they are right underneath the basket which makes for a high percentage shot. This clown couldnt even make a basket. He scored half a shot. WHAT IS THAT!?!lol hahahahahaha He scored an incomplete basket. No Blocks but i'm supposed to give a 7footer credit for 7 assist when he was the closest one 2 the basket? And two rebounds? While Sammy dropped 18 and 10 on him? PLEEEEEEEEEEZE is right. Bogut is a bum.

Z,
If it becomes a 5 day trend, agree. We disagree re ANY 1 Game Stat deal.

All I can say. Too much we dont know. No big deal. On my end. MILW is in free fall, gotta be issues we havent a clue about. My take.

Nah Frank I'm not getting on you..We have alot of morbid fans that seem to enjoy their relentless attack on Dalembert regardless of how well he plays...

And Sam has NEVER had a 1 point 2 rebound performance Sam's off days arent even close to this. While Sam's off days consist of awkward shot selection at times and turnovers ( alot of them from bad forced passes) He still rebounds and blocks shots. Bogus did nothing. Sam still gets his even in his bad games. There is no comparison Bogut is bum

No doubt Bogut is more ticked off than we can guess.

Not to belabor, but bet if same Bogut was on Sixer team today, his production, and TOUCHES, wd be vastly different.
Bucks play ugly, had no PG, and gave Charlie and Redd green lite to shoot em up. For what? They couldnt defend a parapalegic, apologies to the afflicted.

Bucks are a horror story, yeah, Bogut prolly got fed up with zero Coaching plan, but he aint a Bum. Today, he got fed up, it seems.

We can check back next 5 games. Dude is USUALLY a solid inside Big, re Pts, Boards, dishes. And, Sam is a terror against some Bigs, for sure.

We aint fully disagreeing, I just don't subscribe to 1 game stat analysis ever. Thats just me.

On to the Celts.

I am so proud to be a sixers fan right now, this team plays hard and plays the right way through good teamwork. Mo has done an excellent job and Thad gets better and better every time I see him play. It disgusts me to even think that before the season started these so called "analysts" and "experts" who know the game on ESPN predicted our sixers would be in the basement of the Eastern Conference. Even before the season started I looked at how our team went on an incredible run last year to finish with a .500 record after Iverson left. I said from the beginning of the season that this team is full of team first guys and players that would leave it all out on the floor every night, play hard, and give it there best every night. If we just add a scoring power foward, and a good perimeter shooter off the bench I think this team would easily be a number 5 seed in the East next year. As for Sam, I think that if we get a bigs coach we not only satisfy Sams needs but improve Sam's game even more. Right now I think Sam is a nice role playing center that will block shots and get you 11 and 10 a night. If we get a centers coach he could easily improve himself to become a 16 and 10 guy. I agree with the poster above Bogut was just flat out pathetic. One point and two rebounds the whole game? I would gladly chose Sam any day of the week over Bogut. Bogut is sometimes plays way too soft for a starting center in this league, at least Sam plays angry now and then, Sam is also a much better shot blocker than Bogut, and Sam also has become better at avoiding foul trouble.

Wilcox got all of 2 rebounds the other nite. Whether he was labeled a C or PF, isnt that a red flag, in ur terms?

What good is the scoring if the team needs otherwise to stay remotely competitive?

Same with Charlie V. He can shoot, but who cares? He cant defend, or wont defend, a lampost. Their teams are each pitiful.

We draw conclusions often w/o adequate knowledge of the real, team deal. Thats my attempted point.

As a sixers fan i'm not obligated to see the good in a 1 point rebound performance from the opposing center. sorry... Bogus gets more TOUCHES in the post than Dalembert has ever dreamed of. Even when Dalembert doesnt get touches he still gives you 10 and 10 with 3 blocks. I dont get the ball isnt a excuse for 1 point and 2 rebounds in 27 mins played. If that was Sam we wouldnt hear the end of it. Sam still manages to hold it down regardless of his offensive touches. Bogut is a bum. This isnt the first time i've seen or for better words havent seen him play. I'm more unimpressed now than I was before. And for good reason. He has absolutely nothing and the Bucks were fools for taking him first overall. And i'm glad he's not on our team.

You win.
Now, watch Suns-Spurs ending. Heated drama. Its all good, bro

Now, let the PLAYERS Decide Stern. lol

What standout atribute does Bogut have Frank? He's not a good shot blocker, one on one defender( Sammy scored on him with ease) waek side help defender, team defense defender, team defensive rebounder, low post wizard, barely adequate post game, midrange jumper so/so but not good. Average rebounder that is OCCASIONAL inspired but more less than is. What does he do? What is his purpose? He's not physical. He's a bum man. I'm not his mom so i'm not worried about whether he ate his wheaties today ..All I know is a 7 foot bum scored half a basket and 2 rebounds and some depressed fans in here have come to the conclusion that he is better than Dalembert. Bogus is Bumsauce.

What standout atribute does Bogut have Frank? He's not a good shot blocker, one on one defender( Sammy scored on him with ease) waek side help defender, team defense defender, team defensive rebounder, low post wizard, barely adequate post game, midrange jumper so/so but not good. Average rebounder that is OCCASIONAL inspired but more less than is. What does he do? What is his purpose? He's not physical. He's a bum man. I'm not his mom so i'm not worried about whether he ate his wheaties today ..All I know is a 7 foot bum scored half a basket and 2 rebounds and some depressed fans in here have come to the conclusion that he is better than Dalembert. Bogus is Bumsauce.

FU JVG. Go East van Gundy. Freekin Pat Riley lackey. Stay EAST.

Get all the ex Knicks OUTTA WCF games Stern.

Z,

Look overanalyze a 1 off game to your delight. If you find that defining, thats your choice. We disagree.
Not a big deal to me.

Still appreciate your passion, bro. We just view things differently. Btw, nowhere have I even entered Sammy here.

Enjoy the day. Drinks on me bro.

After all, we both deserve a drink ourselves. We are on same page.
Lets now just give the Celts a battle; win or lose. Just be competitive, boys, as best ya can.

Boston isnt as opposing to me as they are to others. Just like Phoenix showed even with Shaq you can run boston out out of their practiced halfcourt sets. They seem to foul and get frustrated easily. They seem weakminded. Starting with Perkins you can take him out of his game..Even Garnett can get side tracked into playing tough guy ball..All 120 pounds of him. Then u got posey who if his shot isnt falling he is a hack or foul waiting to happen. Then ray allen likes to cry all day about lack of calls and his pick and roll defense is basically fouling you and grabbing a jersey. And if you can run paul peirce up and down the court and resist fouling him on that same ole tired pump fake off his shot because he's too lazy to take it all the way to the basket. We can blow Boston the hell out

As far as me assessing Bogut from 1 game thats far from the truth. I've watched him play many times and he just doesnt impress me. Just like i'm sure Bucks management has come to realize grabbing him over Chris Paul AAAAAAAAAAAAND Deron Williams was grave mistake...I have yet to see anything from Bogut that resembles a star. His greatest upside potential is being adeqate. And obviously he hasnt reached his potential. But I do agree we are on the same sidd Go Sixers!!!!

tHEY WIN 2 OF THE NEXT 4.MINIMUM. They were up 20 at half and Iggy and A.Miller did not have to do much in the first half. Green, Carney andSam all made some beutiful passes today, A.Miller is rubbing off on all of them; I can see why, other than just his play, that E.S. wanted A.Miller here after the deadline.Almost get the feeling they can move on if A.Miller leaves and keep rolling, the confidence in each other has improved 10 fold.

Pietrus wants to start and will want 6 to 8 mill. minimum next year, thats why Carney is a better fit here.He makes 2 mill. tops and seems comfortable in his role. And I do think Carney will be a good shooter when all is said and done.

Sam is a moron and the reason that comment was pushed to a footnote is because ppl very rarely take him seriously. They just say "that's just Sam." That is what they are doing with his most recent idiotic comments about not having fun (umm winning isn't fun? having the best year of your career playing the most minutes isn't fun?). Dude needs to get a clue and know his role.
The Sixers are rolling:
http://reclinergm.wordpress.com/2008/03/09/philadelphia-76ers-are-rolling/

I don't know why people, now a day, are talking so much about Dalembert. He's doing his part out there, either crashing the broads and scoring. He's a great player and a great team mate. Just give him credit for what he's doing for the Sixers. Im one of the die hard Sixer fan, stuck through the bad and hanged in there, having the faith like the Sixers have, especially the Andres. Samuel Dalembert you're a great player, keep that up.

Marc,here is just another example of more poor play again from our fine centers on this team against a good Boston team! When does Samuel,Jason and Calvin(Phone)Booth learn how to really play some tough defense.
I dont just mean block a few shoots either! Marc this is like a broken record most every night when they play average and above centers in the NBA they all stink on defense and their offense isnt much better! We have three 7 ft Bozo centers and all of them are scared to rebound when we really have to have a defensive rebound.Marc, I know were number 1 in the NBA in offensive rebounds but thats only because we cant shoot. Marc, we have such poor shot selection at times thats why we lead the league in that catagory.I am so proud as a sixer fan to say the great Samauel & Jason both love to shoot 18 to 20 ft jump shots. Just jokin neither one can hit the broad side of a barn most of the time.Marc, Jason hits 1 or 2 outside shoots and then starts thinking he's Dirk Nowitski from 3 pt range whats up with that. Congadulations to Sam and Jason and (Phone Booth ) on another fine performance from the center position against Boston!

Marc,if AI,A.Miller,W.Green,L.Williams,T.Young dont all play great at the small forwards and guard positions we basically have no chance to win these type of games because our big men suck.
Marc when in the world do are centers start playing half way decent against other young centers in the league. Sam is 26 and will be 27 soon he has no more excuses for his very inconsistant and poor play he';s very weak and hasnt done anything to fix this problem.Why in the world are we not trying to make him work out in the gym to get him more physical and stonger.Give Sam some (roids) just kiddin! I understand Jason is just a rookie but he couldnt guard my little Yorkie dog! Marc, I really like alot of the sixers young talent but our big men stink and thats being very nice abot it.Marc What do you think will and should happen this off season to fix this problem.

Marc,here is just another example of more poor play again from our fine centers on this team against a good Boston team! When does Samuel,Jason and Calvin(Phone)Booth learn how to really play some tough defense.
I dont just mean block a few shoots either! Marc this is like a broken record most every night when they play average and above centers in the NBA they all stink on defense and their offense isnt much better! We have three 7 ft Bozo centers and all of them are scared to rebound when we really have to have a defensive rebound.Marc, I know were number 1 in the NBA in offensive rebounds but thats only because we cant shoot. Marc, we have such poor shot selection at times thats why we lead the league in that catagory.I am so proud as a sixer fan to say the great Samauel & Jason both love to shoot 18 to 20 ft jump shots. Just jokin neither one can hit the broad side of a barn most of the time.Marc, Jason hits 1 or 2 outside shoots and then starts thinking he's Dirk Nowitski from 3 pt range whats up with that. Congadulations to Sam and Jason and (Phone Booth ) on another fine performance from the center position against Boston!

Marc,if AI,A.Miller,W.Green,L.Williams,T.Young dont all play great at the small forwards and guard positions we basically have no chance to win these type of games because our big men suck.
Marc when in the world do are centers start playing half way decent against other young centers in the league. Sam is 26 and will be 27 soon he has no more excuses for his very inconsistant and poor play he';s very weak and hasnt done anything to fix this problem.Why in the world are we not trying to make him work out in the gym to get him more physical and stonger.Give Sam some (roids) just kiddin! I understand Jason is just a rookie but he couldnt guard my little Yorkie dog! Marc, I really like alot of the sixers young talent but our big men stink and thats being very nice abot it.Marc What do you think will and should happen this off season to fix this problem.