The Nuggets Are Going to Implode
It’s not ‘Melo’s faultIn the name of saving their wallets, the Nuggets shipped Marcus Camby to L.A., and watched Eduardo Najera, a valuable hustle player leave for a halfway decent payday in New Jersey. And they still are going into the season with a $77 million payroll once Sonny Weems officially inks a deal as the thirteenth man on their roster for the League minimum.
If it hasn’t happened already, the dollars are going to put the management and the players at odds with one another: the front office expects a team to play at the level at which their paid, and the players see the management as being penny-wise and pound foolish.
Congratulations, owner Stan Kroenke – you’ve created the ingredients for the perfect storm. Your demands to cut costs have your team going into the season with a real sour taste, thereby making any money that you spend almost worthless. Unless Denver can get off to a red-hot start, in which Renaldo Balkman, Linas Kleiza, Kenyon Martin, the Birdman, Nene and Steven Hunter (that’s the entirety of their front court) figure out how to play defense better than they did with one of the League’s top two shotblockers, this could get ugly.
Realistically, how could they improve defensively with George Karl not giving a rat’s ass? He was criticized for having an attitude just as bad as J.R. Smith’s last year, and again, barring some sort of Tom Coughlin-esque turnaround, it makes the prospect for any success this year even more grim.
While all signs point towards destruction, there is still that possibility that coming off of a gold medal performance, Carmelo Anthony with the help of a guy who knows how to strap a team onto his back (AI) can rally this team to defy their management and their coach, showing that they’re worth more than the $77 million in contracts that the front office brass wishes they didn’t have to pay.
September 15th, 2008 at 9:08 am
Tha Boddy says:
I smell a Iverson trade asap and for his age and all I still say he has either the same or alittle less trade value than Melo or D-Wade if they went on the market…Hell when trading for a star you can’t expect them to stay on a bad team for more than their current contract…The only problem is that AI’s contract is up at the end of this season and He could still demand 16-20mil and be in his right mind
September 15th, 2008 at 9:20 am
sans says:
no one will pay $16Mil for AI at this point of his career. He’ll go to whoever he gets traded to because they can re-sign him and go over the cap. Or he’ll go super cheap and sign with Lebron or Chris Bosh, if Boston doesn’t get him on vet’s minimum. Is AI good enough to warrant 16-20, absolutely, but he’ll never get it.
Marion for Iverson? The Heat need a point.
September 15th, 2008 at 9:34 am
karizmatic says:
I hope Denver does trade AI, I would like to see him on a team with a chance at winning a title. At this point it does look like AI will be on the trade block, he’s got a huge contract and Denver obviously isn’t interested in winning, so why do they need him? On the other hand, I don’t think a trade to Miami would work, I’ve often advocated the use of AI as a point guard, but I have come to accept the conventional knowledge that AI just is unwilling or unable to play the position effectively. Also why would Denver want Marion, he basically plays the same position as Anthony, although you could use Marion as a power forward.
September 15th, 2008 at 9:42 am
YOUNGFED says:
AI is the 2nd best 2Gaurd in the league. Everybody needs to slow down on the D-Wade bandwagon till the season starts. Show what if he destroyed a bunch of wack foriegners.
September 15th, 2008 at 9:58 am
justice says:
i like AI at the point for streches, with lebron it would be cool because he wouldn’t be the only ballhandler, ideally u want that guy with a big point that can guard 2 guards, like b.diddy,deron,chauncey..philly could use his services right about now…
September 15th, 2008 at 10:00 am
Coop says:
I can’t stand this ownder-bashing. We heard it with the Suns and now Denver. Hey Dime, a) basketball is a business. Get used to it or don’t watch. b) You try paying out 80mil per year to get knocked out in the first round every year. Oh, right, you dont have 80 million. Funny that. Makes me laugh that people chew out the faceless suits who bankroll these overpaid fools. Try blaming AI, Melo et al who don’t feel they need to play up to their preposterous wage.
Humph.
September 15th, 2008 at 10:03 am
nerditry says:
@youngfed : Sprinkling some rocks on your frosted flakes this morning? AI is not the best two guard in the league, as of right now, yes, it is Wade who showed up as THE BEST 2 GUARD IN THE WORLD. And don’t go telling me about Chucky Atkins or Anthony Carter on the Nuggets when AI plays both positions.
When healthy, Manu is there, Brandon Roy is getting there and let’s realize that Bynum as the starting center moves Kobe back to the 2.
And spend $2 on some spell check.
September 15th, 2008 at 10:04 am
Coop says:
Owner*
Stupid fingers.
September 15th, 2008 at 10:07 am
loganlight says:
The only way this is going to work is if Melo and AI get together and have a players only meeting to discuss the future. EVERYONE has to buy in to team ball. Perhaps Melo’s stint on the Redeem Team will have him playing some sort of defense.
On paper, Denver is an upset team waiting to happen – as in they could upset some top seeds… ok, on paper may be a bit much… but on paper, given that every player plays to their fullest potential. That’s better.
… the Nuggets will finish behind the Clippers this year.
LL
September 15th, 2008 at 10:08 am
Craig says:
“In New York City kids pull invisible antennae from their foreheads after dunking, a la St. John’s senior Darius Miles , who will actually move to a smaller stage upon leaving college for the pros: from Madison Square Garden , where he plays now, to some godforsaken outpost like the Clippers or Cleveland . Likewise, Marquette senior Dwyane Wade has returned to frigid Milwaukee and one more shot at the Final Four rather than spend his winter shooting and shvitzing for a lottery team like Miami .”
just reading this and thought it was funny how the guy nailed where miles and wade would play a year before they even joined the nba
http://vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1030556/index.htm
September 15th, 2008 at 10:11 am
S-SiN says:
It’s just sad man. AI’s been my favourite player in the League since I’ve seen him in 95, it’s a shame he can fall into that Barkley-Malone-GP-Nique-Ewing-Reggie category with just one trip to the finals behind his belt..
Him getting on a squad that actualy gives a damn about playing defence, playing to win ballgames would be a blessing for him and the entire league. Dude’s all heart and there’s no one i’d rather watch play for pure raw excitement. arguments for his lack of defensive intensity and bad attitude plain simply amaze me to this day. granted he’s not a lock down 1-on-1 defender, but with his quickness (he was supposed to lose a step like 3 years ago..) he successfuly gambles for steals and enables his team to run out. and anyone who thinks AI’s attitude is a problem is a pathetic loser, i say that cuz i think i kinda understand outlook on life people like that have. there’s a handful of guys who expect nothing short of being at the top in the NBA, but apart from KG there’s no one in basketball who wants to win and goes at it harder thru all the bruises than AI.
I hope to see Allen on the winning team again before time runs out on him. be it the Cavs, Celts, Pistons, Heat or he’s back in Philly it would just be great to see him winning again, he’s a warrior and deserves better than Nugs management is capable of.
September 15th, 2008 at 10:11 am
loganlight says:
@ Coop
Although you came a little harsh on DIME for the story, you are right. The management can only be blamed for so much… these players have got to get it together.
With that said – HOW DO YOU NOT BLAME GEORGE KARL!? Isn’t he put in place to make this team work?
September 15th, 2008 at 10:13 am
Kobeef says:
If AI can swallow some pride and play the PG position this is a different team. K-Mart started to show that he is finally healthy again last year. Between Nene, KMart and Camby the Nuggets had too many starters and not enough PT so one had to go. based on his injury history camby is a somewhat logical choice. I like this starting line for Denver if everyone can stay healthy.
PG – AI/Carter
SG – JR/Weems
SF – ‘Melo/Balkman
PF – K-Mart/Birdman
C – Nene /Hunter
September 15th, 2008 at 10:14 am
fallinup says:
There will be a losing streak in Denver. And by mid season, AI will be “unhappy” and the trade talk will ensue. And of course, they won’t get top dollar back but cutting costs is what it’s all about with the Nuggets now. Just look at how they dumped Camby for a cookie and 3 jellybeans.
I’ll be very surprised if they are able to make the playoffs by the Allstar break. This is a nothing season for Denver.
September 15th, 2008 at 10:19 am
Coop says:
Logan,
Absolutely I think Karl has to take some of the blame. For example, it’s got nothing to do with the owner if he pays out and the team dont gel or behave badly or dont play D. Similarly, if he cuts payroll he shouldnt expect a bunch of prima donnas knocking on his door moaning about not having enough talent left to succeed. Grab your nuts, thank your lucky stars you get paid stupid money to play a game and get out there and ball!
September 15th, 2008 at 10:34 am
loganlight says:
Agreed.
September 15th, 2008 at 10:44 am
Willis says:
@nerdity
Kobe
Wade
Ray Allen
AI
Tmac
Michael Redd
Joe Johnson
Kevin Martin
September 15th, 2008 at 10:49 am
Dime Magazine says:
Coop and Logan,
I’m with you guys that it’s not just Kroenke’s fault – George Karl definitely deserves to be thrown under the bus too. But Kroenke is the guy who made the edict to cut costs, and thereby get rid of Camby.
Whomever’s fault it was getting to this point, Kroenke’s decision to send MC away is an immediate solution to the hit to his wallet. Working with what his team has, it’s a move that could spark mutiny among the players.
In terms of winning right now – with two of the most talented scorers in the world – Kroenke sent the message to his team that he’d choose his wallet over winning.
- AK
September 15th, 2008 at 10:56 am
Coop says:
No way is Jesus the 3rd best hahaha (and im a Sonics fan and love Allen)
Ai is better and so is JJ. Johnson is 4th on that list (maybe 3rd)
September 15th, 2008 at 10:59 am
Coop says:
AK,
That’s partly true but imho you dont have to answer to your players. They, above most, should know it’s a business. I agree that he should attempt to harbour a positive feeling amongst his players but that’s also a coach’s responsibility. If you flip it, you never see players eulogising about the owners when they flash the cash and get 1st round exits in return.
As soon as things trun bad, the worms turn.
September 15th, 2008 at 11:03 am
Ian says:
willis lol
comon now
manu when healthy is the second best 2guard
and he doesnt even crack your list with allen as number three over tmac thats just sad
ray allen LOL
youngfed
ai isnt that high anymore
nerditry is righ its either wade or manu
booty
no way is iverson worth the same as wade
my list
kobe
manu (healthy)
wade (healthy)
tmac (healthy)
thats the elite group after that round them up however u like of course u can shuffle up manu wade and tmac as anyone likes but thats the top 4
September 15th, 2008 at 11:05 am
Ian says:
coop wow u like jj that much
hes my number 5 really
i just dont think he can carry the load like the top 4 can
September 15th, 2008 at 11:09 am
Ansonious says:
The nuggets are going to be like the Knicks have been for the last few years, they’ll spend too much money on a team that will probably only get 30-40 wins, blame it on the coach fire him, and start the next best reality show”Who can help these motherfuckers win.” At best the Nuggest will become the new N.Y. Knicks of the league. I’m out like the Nuggets making the playoffs peace!
September 15th, 2008 at 11:14 am
loganlight says:
AK,
I see both sides of this issue. I just get mad at playes NOT performing to their potential – forget their paychecks. When the management dictates the tone for the year by getting rid of one its cornerstones it has adverse effects, yes. But that is why in my original post I mentioned that AI and Melo (the 2 ‘leaders’ of the team) need to get the players together and NOT let the management dictate.
So I guess it comes full circle. I blame Melo for not trying hard, management for send the cost cutting message, and Karl for not giving a lick.
Still, the Nuggets will miss the playoffs.
September 15th, 2008 at 11:41 am
Dennis Castro says:
You guys notice that when you brought up the list of best 2 guards in the league, Vince Carter made neither list?
I’m no Vince fan, just crazy how much he’s fallen in a short period of time.
And how do you not have Rip in your top 2’s in the league? He’s no lower than 4th or 5th.
September 15th, 2008 at 11:45 am
Iceman says:
The luxury tax dictates some owners actions. The GM and coach sign off on players and the owner “usually” just sits back and enjoys his team. Its business and taking losses and not getting out of the first round with over priced talent lends to cost cutting.
What you need is a team and coach who are on the same page, and high priced talent dose not always gel into a team. The culture of the team (see Spurs/Boston) can be dictated by the GM/Coach or best player. Can AI/Melo step up to this?
Bottom line Karl alienates his top players, just like Larry Brown when the team is failing and everything goes south from there. Karl should take a tip from Larry – jump ship before the s%$t hits the fan.
September 15th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
Celts Fan says:
The league’s best 2 guards:
1. Kobe
2. Wade
3. Roy (bigger and more versatile than AI and he actually plays D)
4. AI
September 15th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
djKianoosh says:
I’m as big an AI and Manu fan as there can be and if you use the “when healthy” for Manu, you also have to remember to use it for AI. dude has always played hurt. so it’s a fantasy to claim how good a guy can be when they’re healthy. AI’s greatness is due to the fact that he does play when hurt, and still plays great. Lately he’s been able to take care of his body better though, and he still hasn’t lost a step. So I’d put him over Manu, when healthy, any time.
Manu is a great team winner, but he’s not in the top 3. Wade is way up there going by what he did in China. Kobe of course. Joe Johnson doesn’t get love cause he still needs to win in the playoffs. Ray Allen didn’t have a great playoffs until the finals, but he’s still up there.
So top three for me are Kobe, Wade and AI.
Is it me or does all the criticism about Team USA’s past failures all point to AI and Duncan? That’s what it sounds like when you watch that “Redeem Team” special on NBATV. The negativity just points to those two guys and it’s a shame, cause they’re two of my favorite players.
September 15th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Ian says:
DJ
duncan was the best player on the dream team and ifu traded howard or bosh for him the team could only get better
and i rather have manu easy over iverson not even debatable for me
but then again like i said to coop this is just opinions
i did mention u can shuffle the 2-4 spots anyway u like
after kobe
manu wade and tmac they can do more things than the others
cuz the second group
iverson carter allen jj redd none of them are better and no gm would pick any of them ahead of the top 4
celts fan
roy over all those guys damn not yet
September 15th, 2008 at 1:54 pm
king ralf says:
lmao, the nuggets with ai and melo are a video game team only. they could very well end up as a lottery team or get into the playoffs. but then it will be a 0-4/1-4 first round exit
September 15th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Coop says:
Ian,
the reason i ranked JJ high (on the other guy’s list!) is because he’s very good at both ends. i like that. i cant stand dick riders of guys who can score but cant defend or vice versa (knock knock Z-Bo, Bowen, Booz etc)
2 guards that deserve praise imo include kobe, wade, johnson and gin gin. Even Hamilton deserves a word imo. not elite, but he;s under-rated imo.
September 15th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
tealish says:
The caption of the article picture is inaccurate.
September 15th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
Three Stacks says:
There’s no way Melo can save the Nuggets. Yeah, he won a gold medal, but he’s played better in past FIBA tourneys, and that’s never made the Nuggets better or anything. And this alleged defensive intensity he learned this summer…I don’t remember Melo really being a defensive force in Beijing, so I’ll believe it when I see it.
@ Coop, if your organization is worth hundreds of millions of dollars, and your revenue depends on the satisfaction of your fans, isn’t it ownership’s responsibility to field a good team? It’s not the fact that owners are being cheap that bugs me, it’s the fact that when they DO spend money, they give people like Kenyon Martin max deals.
Although I don’t have to worry about that since I’m a Laker fan. It may become an issue when we re-up Bynum, but we’ll see.
September 15th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
Quest??? says:
fuck the nuggets, this article is sad but true, they should trade iverson to a contending team. and yes iverson is the best guard in the nba he is just underrated and overlooked
September 15th, 2008 at 3:54 pm
Celts Fan says:
My arguments:
TMac (by the time Roy’s been in the league 10 years, he’ll have sniffed the 2nd round and won’t have been given up on twice – stupidly yes, but the facts are the facts.)
Manu (probably shoulda been over Roy, but didn’t think of it, BUT Roy actually plays D and doesn’t flop, so he gets the nod IMO. Let’s put it this way, if you switched Manu and Roy on last year’s Blazers team, whose do you think is better? To me, it’s Roy’s cuz he does more. Manu’s a GREAT #2, Roy’s putting in work as a #1 and almost turned one of the worst teams in the league into a playoff team.)
Joe Johnson (just not as good as the other guys. I’d LOVE him on my team, just not as good as the other guys above him, which isn’t a knock on him by any means.)
to me, Roy can play THREE positions well and defend all 3 fo them. That leads ot a variety of extremely versatile lineups that Nate can use effectively. that’s HUGE for a coach. don’t underestimate how important that can be and will be for them over the next 10 years. Also, yes, defense counts. If you can’t/don’t play it, you’re knocked down a bit to me.
September 15th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
Coop says:
Stacks,
I feel you in terms of business strategy but if you look at the figures for gate receipts and merchandise sales I bet they wont be far behind (this year from last). Let’s say they hover under the cap, as opposed to, lets say, 7 mil over. That’s 14 mil saved. Will he lose that much? Doubt it.
If he makes solid moves after Iverson goes everyone will sing a different tune. There are GMs out there who dont spend. I think it’s harsh to attack one who has been than willing to, and is cutting back because his team are hardly setting the world on fire.
September 15th, 2008 at 10:47 pm
kowtz says:
Opt out… sign with LA for vet min… and let’s have a fucking LAL-BOS rematch…
Haha, I got stop smoking this shit…
September 16th, 2008 at 8:48 am
Coop says:
what do you mean opt-out? of what? He can’t opt out now!
September 27th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
Jlyon says:
For all those who are saying Melo and AI to play for the salary they are getting and not playing up to their potential. I would love to see any of you on the court and put up the numbers they put up. Or better yet, come challenge me to a game or two. We could even put our salaries on the line.