Rondo to the... [Archive] - Wildcat Nation Forums - Kentucky Wildcat Discussion and News

Cincy110

03-29-2006, 08:30 AM

With Bradley at the point, Crawford will be able to move to his natural 2 spot, Perry can move to his natural 3 spot and we need someone to move into the 4, with Morris at the 5 or have Morris move to the4 and have Alleyne at the 5. We will be just fine. Offense should be able to score points. Defensive intensity needs to pick back up to what it was the last few years. I don't know what I would call what I saw this past year, but it sure wasn't defense.

bleedbluelady

03-29-2006, 09:02 AM

I would love to have Rondo return. I just don't see it happening.

Kentucky Jim

03-29-2006, 09:06 AM

I really want to see Rondo return.

Those that don't want that are not seeing the big picture, IMHO.

SCBlu

03-29-2006, 09:32 AM

Littlemeyer wrote: CATHYnKY wrote: I want him to return. I must be in the minority here.
Nope. I want him too. I believe we're the majority. There are a few that, for whatever reason, don't like Rondo. Vocal, but just a few.Agreed. We need his talent & experience if we have any hope of getting back to where we belong.

michael diamond

03-29-2006, 09:59 AM

CATHYnKY wrote: I want him to return. I must be in the minority here.I believe most want hime to return. I do... but if he is a lottery pick, I wish him a long and successful NBa career (successful vs. everyone but my knicks), and thank him for his two years at Lexington.

fanaticfan

03-29-2006, 11:08 AM

I want him to return, do I think there is a chane in **** that he will? NO! I wish him well, As much as I like my job and respect the people that I for and with...........if I had a winning lottery ticket worth a million or more.............I wouldn't come back here either.

DonnieKat

03-29-2006, 11:25 AM

NotFrank wrote: Hawks or Wolves...unless either trades the pick. The Hawks LOVE RR for that team, dribble, dish, defense and take the ball out of JJ's hands. If the lottery pans out, RR is top ten. Straight from a horses mouth...and that horse works with Rex and Duane.

Sorry dude, I'm calling BS. Billy Knight and the Atlanta Spirit keep everything EXTREMELY close to the vest. They haven't said a word regarding the draft yet- I just saw Michael Gearon, Jr speak the other day (part owner) and he didn't even mention the draft.

In my opinion, the Hawks will trade down and grab UConn PG Marcus Williams. He's just as fast, a good defender and can make 3 point shots/FT's. They also need a better C in the worstway.

Omega16

03-29-2006, 11:34 AM

I'm indifferent about his return. Part of me wants that athletic ability and defense to return, but the other part wants him to go simply to get rid of his attitude. It just seems that there were a lot of rumors involving RR and team chemistry... heck I even heard them all the way down here in Charleston, SC. If true, then hand the keys to Ramel.

DCWildcat

03-29-2006, 11:35 AM

flacat22 wrote: His game is tailor made for the NBA...one on one, involve the teammates as little as possible and stay in the spotlight...he'll make it easy for the NBA defenses, no need to guard him from 18' out...

While Rondo lead the team in shots (wouldn't have if Morris was here all season), his FG% was significantly higher than any of our other guards. I have no problem if he favors himself to shoot over another player.

Littlemeyer

03-29-2006, 11:38 AM

Omega16 wrote: I'm indifferent about his return. Part of me wants that athletic ability and defense to return, but the other part wants him to go simply to get rid of his attitude. It just seems that there were a lot of rumors involving RR and team chemistry... heck I even heard them all the way down here in Charleston, SC. If true, then hand the keys to Ramel.

If true....that is the key clarifier right there. I am not privy to any information indicating that it is indeed true. All I have seen is speculation, based on his on-and-off-court demeanor.

I can't honestly say what Rondo's attitude is like. I could 'speculate' that he hates to lose, based on how despondent he appears near the end of games that we do indeed lose. At the same time, I could speculate that he doesn't get thrilled with a win, because his demeanor is not much different in those games.

Nonetheless, when he is on, indicated by the 5-6 minute stretch in the second half in Knoxville, there is no other point guard in the country that I would want currently.

Chunks06

03-29-2006, 11:47 AM

DCWildcat wrote: flacat22 wrote: His game is tailor made for the NBA...one on one, involve the teammates as little as possible and stay in the spotlight...he'll make it easy for the NBA defenses, no need to guard him from 18' out...

While Rondo lead the team in shots (wouldn't have if Morris was here all season), his FG% was significantly higher than any of our other guards. I have no problem if he favors himself to shoot over another player.

People look at his FG% and say how he can shoot decent because of that. Thats wrong because most of his made field goals came from layups. His 3 point% was below 30 and I would probably say his range from 12-18' would be near the same. I love Rondo and would love to have him back but his scoring this year is overrated this year I think. If you look at several of the games we lost early in the season he scored a majority of his points in the last few minutes when teams did not want to tak a chance at stopping the clock so they laid off and let him drive. He is lightning quick and his assists continued to climb once we got Morris back. he will never be a big scorer. I would prefer many, many other plays to take mid-deep range shots over him.

Houstoncat

03-29-2006, 11:57 AM

If he can go in top ten more power to him. The hawks are where they are in the NBA hierarchy for a reason.

I would like him back, he could use the year and even two to develop his offense but frankly given first round money and the possibility of injury etc. I'd be gone too.

Aike

03-29-2006, 12:14 PM

Why rip the guy? It seems like he knows a scout or a friend of a scout.

The Hawks might not be making public proclamations, but that doesn't mean that nobody is saying anything privately. I for one appreciate the info, even if it is just a tidbit.

DonnieKat wrote: NotFrank wrote: Hawks or Wolves...unless either trades the pick. The Hawks LOVE RR for that team, dribble, dish, defense and take the ball out of JJ's hands. If the lottery pans out, RR is top ten. Straight from a horses mouth...and that horse works with Rex and Duane.

Sorry dude, I'm calling BS. Billy Knight and the Atlanta Spirit keep everything EXTREMELY close to the vest. They haven't said a word regarding the draft yet- I just saw Michael Gearon, Jr speak the other day (part owner) and he didn't even mention the draft.

In my opinion, the Hawks will trade down and grab UConn PG Marcus Williams. He's just as fast, a good defender and can make 3 point shots/FT's. They also need a better C in the worstway.

RaleighCat

03-29-2006, 12:14 PM

Kentucky Jim wrote: I really want to see Rondo return.

Those that don't want that are not seeing the big picture, IMHO.

Which "big picture?" The Cats' or Rondo's? If Rajon Rondo can be a lottery pick with two years of college experience, why not take it? We're probably talking $10m guaranteed. Turning that into $20+m in his first contract would mean he'd have to go top 5 or so. Do you see Rondo turning himself into a top 5 draft pick with one or two more years under Tubby Smith? With one or two more years anywhere, for that matter?

Sure, selfishly, I'd love to have Rondo stay one or more seasons. And I think it would help his game in the long run. It would sure help us. But I can't fault him for choosing to leave and making that kind of money, if that's his choice. College is supposed to prepare you to earn a living in the real world. If that living is playing professional basketball, why shouldn't he leave?

Chunks06

03-29-2006, 12:18 PM

RaleighCat wrote: Kentucky Jim wrote: I really want to see Rondo return.

Those that don't want that are not seeing the big picture, IMHO.

Which "big picture?" The Cats' or Rondo's? If Rajon Rondo can be a lottery pick with two years of college experience, why not take it? We're probably talking $10m guaranteed. Turning that into $20+m in his first contract would mean he'd have to go top 5 or so. Do you see Rondo turning himself into a top 5 draft pick with one or two more years under Tubby Smith? With one or two more years anywhere, for that matter?

Sure, selfishly, I'd love to have Rondo stay one or more seasons. And I think it would help his game in the long run. It would sure help us. But I can't fault him for choosing to leave and making that kind of money, if that's his choice. College is supposed to prepare you to earn a living in the real world. If that living is playing professional basketball, why shouldn't he leave?

Ditto. Nice post.

NotFrank

03-29-2006, 12:39 PM

DonnieKat wrote: NotFrank wrote: Hawks or Wolves...unless either trades the pick. The Hawks LOVE RR for that team, dribble, dish, defense and take the ball out of JJ's hands. If the lottery pans out, RR is top ten. Straight from a horses mouth...and that horse works with Rex and Duane.

Sorry dude, I'm calling BS. Billy Knight and the Atlanta Spirit keep everything EXTREMELY close to the vest. They haven't said a word regarding the draft yet- I just saw Michael Gearon, Jr speak the other day (part owner) and he didn't even mention the draft.

In my opinion, the Hawks will trade down and grab UConn PG Marcus Williams. He's just as fast, a good defender and can make 3 point shots/FT's. They also need a better C in the worstway.

Call BS all you want. I didn't say anything came from the Hawks. It came from the TWolves. They love him and so do the Hawks. Call BS, I'm not losing sleep.

Swimmer4uk

03-29-2006, 01:03 PM

Lets keep some hope.....so let's just call BS that he's actually leaving.

DonnieKat

03-29-2006, 01:10 PM

NotFrank wrote: DonnieKat wrote: NotFrank wrote: Hawks or Wolves...unless either trades the pick. The Hawks LOVE RR for that team, dribble, dish, defense and take the ball out of JJ's hands. If the lottery pans out, RR is top ten. Straight from a horses mouth...and that horse works with Rex and Duane.

Sorry dude, I'm calling BS. Billy Knight and the Atlanta Spirit keep everything EXTREMELY close to the vest. They haven't said a word regarding the draft yet- I just saw Michael Gearon, Jr speak the other day (part owner) and he didn't even mention the draft.

In my opinion, the Hawks will trade down and grab UConn PG Marcus Williams. He's just as fast, a good defender and can make 3 point shots/FT's. They also need a better C in the worstway.

Call BS all you want. I didn't say anything came from the Hawks. It came from the TWolves. They love him and so do the Hawks. Call BS, I'm not losing sleep.

It's no secret the Hawks need a PG. Tyronne Lue (injured), Royal Ivey and Joe Johnson aren't cutting it.Still, theHawks aren't dumb enough to waste a top 5 pick onRondo. That would be absurd. Whatever your source says about the Wolves might be right on the money, but the Hawks talk is pure speculation. My source says no way.

Kentucky Jim

03-29-2006, 01:13 PM

RaleighCat wrote: Kentucky Jim wrote: I really want to see Rondo return.

Those that don't want that are not seeing the big picture, IMHO.

Which "big picture?" The Cats' or Rondo's? If Rajon Rondo can be a lottery pick with two years of college experience, why not take it? We're probably talking $10m guaranteed. Turning that into $20+m in his first contract would mean he'd have to go top 5 or so. Do you see Rondo turning himself into a top 5 draft pick with one or two more years under Tubby Smith? With one or two more years anywhere, for that matter?
I was referring to those who think Rondo should go pro because he would hurt the team next year, there are some around here who feel that way. I've got no problem with him going pro to earn millions of dollars, that is what I expect him to do and would be my suggestion if he knew his draft status.

DCWildcat

03-29-2006, 01:18 PM

Chunks06 wrote: DCWildcat wrote: flacat22 wrote: His game is tailor made for the NBA...one on one, involve the teammates as little as possible and stay in the spotlight...he'll make it easy for the NBA defenses, no need to guard him from 18' out...

While Rondo lead the team in shots (wouldn't have if Morris was here all season), his FG% was significantly higher than any of our other guards. I have no problem if he favors himself to shoot over another player.

People look at his FG% and say how he can shoot decent because of that. Thats wrong because most of his made field goals came from layups. His 3 point% was below 30 and I would probably say his range from 12-18' would be near the same. I love Rondo and would love to have him back but his scoring this year is overrated this year I think. If you look at several of the games we lost early in the season he scored a majority of his points in the last few minutes when teams did not want to tak a chance at stopping the clock so they laid off and let him drive. He is lightning quick and his assists continued to climb once we got Morris back. he will never be a big scorer. I would prefer many, many other plays to take mid-deep range shots over him.

You're arguing against an argument I didn't make.

Be very careful when you interpret statistics--FG% doesn't necessarily reflect someone's outside shooting percentage (after all, Shag has a higher FG% than Sparks). I never said that, but you attributed that argument to me. Rondo's FG% is what it is, nevermind how it got there. Again, I'd rather Rondo take a field goal than any other guard, using only that information. If we specified jump shots, however, the argument is changed, and I'd no longer hold that position. But we didn't. See the difference?

Chunks06

03-29-2006, 01:52 PM

DCWildcat wrote: Chunks06 wrote: DCWildcat wrote: flacat22 wrote: His game is tailor made for the NBA...one on one, involve the teammates as little as possible and stay in the spotlight...he'll make it easy for the NBA defenses, no need to guard him from 18' out...

While Rondo lead the team in shots (wouldn't have if Morris was here all season), his FG% was significantly higher than any of our other guards. I have no problem if he favors himself to shoot over another player.

People look at his FG% and say how he can shoot decent because of that. Thats wrong because most of his made field goals came from layups. His 3 point% was below 30 and I would probably say his range from 12-18' would be near the same. I love Rondo and would love to have him back but his scoring this year is overrated this year I think. If you look at several of the games we lost early in the season he scored a majority of his points in the last few minutes when teams did not want to tak a chance at stopping the clock so they laid off and let him drive. He is lightning quick and his assists continued to climb once we got Morris back. he will never be a big scorer. I would prefer many, many other plays to take mid-deep range shots over him.

You're arguing against an argument I didn't make.

Be very careful when you interpret statistics--FG% doesn't necessarily reflect someone's outside shooting percentage (after all, Shag has a higher FG% than Sparks). I never said that, but you attributed that argument to me. Rondo's FG% is what it is, nevermind how it got there. Again, I'd rather Rondo take a field goal than any other guard, using only that information. If we specified jump shots, however, the argument is changed, and I'd no longer hold that position. But we didn't. See the difference?

I see the difference and I am not trying to get an argument started over this but there is no point in using only that information . The reason I say that is because we all have plenty of info to dispute that. When you say take a field goal I am purely thinking a clutch shot, something with more meaning than most which is more often then not, an outside shot for GUARD. Either way this is a dumb argument for either of us to be having especially when we both agree overall.

RaleighCat

03-29-2006, 02:01 PM

Kentucky Jim wrote: RaleighCat wrote: Kentucky Jim wrote: I really want to see Rondo return.

Those that don't want that are not seeing the big picture, IMHO.

Which "big picture?" The Cats' or Rondo's? If Rajon Rondo can be a lottery pick with two years of college experience, why not take it? We're probably talking $10m guaranteed. Turning that into $20+m in his first contract would mean he'd have to go top 5 or so. Do you see Rondo turning himself into a top 5 draft pick with one or two more years under Tubby Smith? With one or two more years anywhere, for that matter?
I was referring to those who think Rondo should go pro because he would hurt the team next year, there are some around here who feel that way. I've got no problem with him going pro to earn millions of dollars, that is what I expect him to do and would be my suggestion if he knew his draft status.Gotcha.

wildcat74

03-29-2006, 02:09 PM

I love it when people have "sources".

RaviMoss#1fan

03-29-2006, 02:18 PM

im going to be the first to go out on the limb and say Welcome back Rondo cause i think he will stay one year then jump before his Sr Year. If we do lose him i think we lose him, Sims will go back to jr college, then adam williams will leave so we lose from this year team. Ravi, Sparks, Brando, Preston, Williams, Sims and Rondo, I think i like next year lineup if those decide to leave,

Shag at Center

Morris at PF

Perry at SF

Crawford at SG

Bradley at Pg

That would work maybe someone can get Kenny Walker to come in and work them with Carter and Shag or can he come in and play for us

NotFrank

03-29-2006, 02:50 PM

wildcat74 wrote: I love it when people have "sources".

You can believe what you want. This source is a high school friend of mine who is the director of international scouting for the TWolves. I'm just passing along what he told me.

tauzreborn

03-29-2006, 03:31 PM

Nobody had Charlie Villenuava going #8 either. If the Hawks need a pg to handle the ball and sell some tickets Rondo is their guy.

So what if Marcus Williams can shoot - Do you think moms and dads are going to buy their kids his jersey? -If they read the paper -NOT A CHANCE.

Rondo is electric. It has been a thrill to watch him play and I am sad it is over.

OK I am over it. Lets go CATS. I am looking forward to next season with our new cast coming in.

scars.of.grace

03-29-2006, 04:29 PM

You've got that right, LM. I want Rondo to return to this team. We're just not as good without him, I don't think. And he is just such a tremendous player.

Littlemeyer wrote: CATHYnKY wrote: I want him to return. I must be in the minority here.
Nope. I want him too. I believe we're the majority. There are a few that, for whatever reason, don't like Rondo. Vocal, but just a few.

DonnieKat

03-29-2006, 05:19 PM

tauzreborn wrote: Nobody had Charlie Villenuava going #8 either. If the Hawks need a pg to handle the ball and sell some tickets Rondo is their guy.

So what if Marcus Williams can shoot - Do you think moms and dads are going to buy their kids his jersey? -If they read the paper -NOT A CHANCE.

Rondo is electric. It has been a thrill to watch him play and I am sad it is over.

OK I am over it. Lets go CATS. I am looking forward to next season with our new cast coming in.

It was alleged that Kobe Bryant raped and sodomized a woman in Colorado. Damon Stoudemare smokes dope. Sammy Sosa did roids. Michael Vick gave a woman an STD. How are their jersey sales? I don't buy that argument for a minute. The fact that Marcus Williams soundly outplayed Rondo certainly didn't help Rajon's cause either.

Rondo has so many holes in his game he shouldn't even being a mid-round pick. His on the ball defense is bad. He can't shoot. He misses free throws. He gambles on defense. The only thing keeping him in lottery discussions is a weak European class this year and the fact that HS seniors can't declare.

Mark it down anywhere you want- the Hawks WILL NOT take Rondo with a top five pick...ever.

BigblueDrew

03-29-2006, 05:44 PM

CATHYnKY wrote: I want him to return. I must be in the minority here.No your not, some others will miss him, myself especially. He is just the whipping boy for a frustrated segment of our fan base. Next year when we don't have him and suffer mightily in the early season as a result you will see the same bunch whining about our weakness at the one spot.

BigblueDrew

03-29-2006, 05:46 PM

RaviMoss#1fan wrote: im going to be the first to go out on the limb and say Welcome back Rondo cause i think he will stay one year then jump before his Sr Year. If we do lose him i think we lose him, Sims will go back to jr college, then adam williams will leave so we lose from this year team. Ravi, Sparks, Brando, Preston, Williams, Sims and Rondo, I think i like next year lineup if those decide to leave,

Shag at Center

Morris at PF

Perry at SF

Crawford at SG

Bradley at Pg

That would work maybe someone can get Kenny Walker to come in and work them with Carter and Shag or can he come in and play for us
If that is our lineup opening night look for another double digit loss season.

Aike

03-29-2006, 06:25 PM

I don't expect Rondo to go in the top five at this point, but it wouldn't surprise me to see Atlanta trade down later in the lottery and take him.

DonnieKat wrote: tauzreborn wrote: Nobody had Charlie Villenuava going #8 either. If the Hawks need a pg to handle the ball and sell some tickets Rondo is their guy.

So what if Marcus Williams can shoot - Do you think moms and dads are going to buy their kids his jersey? -If they read the paper -NOT A CHANCE.

Rondo is electric. It has been a thrill to watch him play and I am sad it is over.

OK I am over it. Lets go CATS. I am looking forward to next season with our new cast coming in.

It was alleged that Kobe Bryant raped and sodomized a woman in Colorado. Damon Stoudemare smokes dope. Sammy Sosa did roids. Michael Vick gave a woman an STD. How are their jersey sales? I don't buy that argument for a minute. The fact that Marcus Williams soundly outplayed Rondo certainly didn't help Rajon's cause either.

Rondo has so many holes in his game he shouldn't even being a mid-round pick. His on the ball defense is bad. He can't shoot. He misses free throws. He gambles on defense. The only thing keeping him in lottery discussions is a weak European class this year and the fact that HS seniors can't declare.

Mark it down anywhere you want- the Hawks WILL NOT take Rondo with a top five pick...ever.

Blue Heaven

03-29-2006, 08:59 PM

yea he made some big shots for us. But just because some of those shots fell doesn't neccesarily maen he was a good fit for this team. Tubby's lack of a "hectic" style stymied a player like Rondo. I got so sick of Rondo coming down and holding up the "c" sign that I thought I was gonna puke. When Tubby let him go he was awesome. We needed A LOT more of that this year. A game here or there just didn't cut it for me.

ukbob

03-29-2006, 09:03 PM

wildcat74 wrote: I love it when people have "sources".Notfrank is just passing along info he heard and we appreciate it. Why not just leave it at that or ignore it altogether.

flacat22

03-29-2006, 10:27 PM

Aike wrote: "Involve his teammates as little as possible" doesn't sound right for someone who once had 31 assists in a high school game, playing along side one of the current Hawks.

flacat22 wrote: His game is tailor made for the NBA...one on one, involve the teammates as little as possible and stay in the spotlight...he'll make it easy for the NBA defenses, no need to guard him from 18' out...

Maybe that was a bit harsh (going back to a high school stat line is a bit of a reach though) but lets face facts can you say he is an NBA point guard based on his accomplishments (or lack therof) at the University of Kentucky? Iwant him to come back of course but there are players that Tubby is talking about when he mentions "changes" and he is one of them...if he wants to be a team player amd worl on other aspects of his game then great welcome him back, if not, good luck in the NBA.

Aike

03-29-2006, 10:41 PM

When Tubby talks about changes, the first people that come to my mind are the guys who were benched at times - Sims, Alleyne, and Bradley. Rondo played and played a lot.

Maybe Tubby and Rondo didn't always see eye to eye, but if Tubby was as dissatisfied with Rondo as some fans seem to believe, why did Rondo keep earning so much playing time?

Rondo led this team in minutes per game (4.3 more than second place Sparks), rebounding, assists, assist/turnover ratio, steals, and was second in scoring average.

flacat22 wrote: Aike wrote: "Involve his teammates as little as possible" doesn't sound right for someone who once had 31 assists in a high school game, playing along side one of the current Hawks.

flacat22 wrote: His game is tailor made for the NBA...one on one, involve the teammates as little as possible and stay in the spotlight...he'll make it easy for the NBA defenses, no need to guard him from 18' out...

Maybe that was a bit harsh (going back to a high school stat line is a bit of a reach though) but lets face facts can you say he is an NBA point guard based on his accomplishments (or lack therof) at the University of Kentucky? Iwant him to come back of course but there are players that Tubby is talking about when he mentions "changes" and he is one of them...if he wants to be a team player amd worl on other aspects of his game then great welcome him back, if not, good luck in the NBA.

flacat22

03-29-2006, 10:47 PM

That could be the case, I dont know but Rondo WAS benched during the shuffle of the starting five near the end of the season. Maybe Im guilty of falling vicitm to the endless hype prior to the season that rondo was the next great Wildcat and it didnt happen. Can you blame me for being disapointed in his play this year? When the thread came out about who do you vote for for MVP of the team I voted for Rondo simply because of the last second shots against UCF and USC and the second half performance against UT...there shouldve been MORE 2nd half performances against UT though for me to consider Rondo "ready" but Im not an NBA scout and I dont sign the paychecks, just my opinion.

UKBlue2321

03-29-2006, 11:03 PM

CATHYnKY wrote: I want him to return. I must be in the minority here.I guess I am in the minority too. He might have an attitude but he is needed on this team. But he has got to do what is best for him at this point. I wish him the best and I hope he does well.

Aike

03-29-2006, 11:14 PM

I just think that Rondo was the best player and the default leader of a team that underperformed all year. It was natural that he would catch the brunt of the criticism. Had we lost three or four games and made the Final Four, Rondo would have gotten much of the credit. That's just the way it is when you play with the big boys.

flacat22 wrote: That could be the case, I dont know but Rondo WAS benched during the shuffle of the starting five near the end of the season. Maybe Im guilty of falling vicitm to the endless hype prior to the season that rondo was the next great Wildcat and it didnt happen. Can you blame me for being disapointed in his play this year? When the thread came out about who do you vote for for MVP of the team I voted for Rondo simply because of the last second shots against UCF and USC and the second half performance against UT...there shouldve been MORE 2nd half performances against UT though for me to consider Rondo "ready" but Im not an NBA scout and I dont sign the paychecks, just my opinion.

flacat22

03-30-2006, 12:00 AM

and I would agree with that, I dont think that our opinions are that far off...we are both disappointed with an underachieiving team and it's underachieving "star" so where's the disagreement?

Aike

03-30-2006, 12:09 AM

Maybe it is sort of nuanced, but I am not as disappointed in Rondo as many fans seem to be. I just understand that as our best player, he is going to be the first guy criticized when our TEAM underperforms.

I also think that Rondo's demeanor opens him up to extra criticism. I have seen several people on this board talk about how much they love Bradley, and his energetic enthusiasm. It's true; Bradley's enthusiasm is infectious. But, Bradley is still a bigger ballhog than Rondo ever dreamed of being.

Rondo may not have been the leader that many wanted or expected him to be. I still think he had a solid season.

flacat22 wrote: and I would agree with that, I dont think that our opinions are that far off...we are both disappointed with an underachieiving team and it's underachieving "star" so where's the disagreement?

flacat22

03-30-2006, 12:17 AM

we'll agree to disagree then, Ill remember the Vandy game when he missed the FT and the 3 pointer that couldve prevented a Vandy sweep. I hope he doesnt leave and uses that game as inspiration to work on his game's shortcomings...

Aike

03-30-2006, 12:24 AM

Of course he made the steal before he missed the free throws. Against UCONN he hit a huge three, then missed one in the closing seconds that would have cut it to one. It's a mixed bag. The kid's not Superman.

I'm with you hoping that he returns, and readily acknowledge that he is an incomplete package. But if he is going to be well paid, I think it would behoove him to exit.

flacat22 wrote: we'll agree to disagree then, Ill remember the Vandy game when he missed the FT and the 3 pointer that couldve prevented a Vandy sweep. I hope he doesnt leave and uses that game as inspiration to work on his game's shortcomings...

catlovercardhater

03-30-2006, 12:43 AM

I think there is something valuable, that many of you all are missing, and maybe u need a younger perspective, from someone like myself. You areonly young once, and i wouldn't take a million dollars over the fun times I had in college over anything. NO JOKE... not the millions I earned in the NBA. You are only young once... have a good time... life experience isn't worth money.. and I think Rondo should see that before he potentially makes a bad mistake. Yea, he will get a lot of money, but will he really be happier than he would be @ UK? Now maybe he doesn't like a lot of things about the basketball program, but Im sure he has made many friends here, and made close relationships with some of the players that he wont have in the NBA. he will be shipped off far away from his friends and family. I'm sure many of you would agree, the best time of your life was in college (if you went).

NotFrank

03-30-2006, 02:44 AM

DonnieKat wrote: tauzreborn wrote: Nobody had Charlie Villenuava going #8 either. If the Hawks need a pg to handle the ball and sell some tickets Rondo is their guy.

So what if Marcus Williams can shoot - Do you think moms and dads are going to buy their kids his jersey? -If they read the paper -NOT A CHANCE.

Rondo is electric. It has been a thrill to watch him play and I am sad it is over.

OK I am over it. Lets go CATS. I am looking forward to next season with our new cast coming in.

It was alleged that Kobe Bryant raped and sodomized a woman in Colorado. Damon Stoudemare smokes dope. Sammy Sosa did roids. Michael Vick gave a woman an STD. How are their jersey sales? I don't buy that argument for a minute. The fact that Marcus Williams soundly outplayed Rondo certainly didn't help Rajon's cause either.

Rondo has so many holes in his game he shouldn't even being a mid-round pick. His on the ball defense is bad. He can't shoot. He misses free throws. He gambles on defense. The only thing keeping him in lottery discussions is a weak European class this year and the fact that HS seniors can't declare.

Mark it down anywhere you want- the Hawks WILL NOT take Rondo with a top five pick...ever.

Mark it down as top five? Who said top five? I said the Hawks and Wolves love him. That's why it's a lottery...if the Hawks have a top ten, he is gone to them unless the Twolves grab him first. You are arguing against yourself.

Athens2005

03-30-2006, 09:40 AM

Frank,

I thoroughly appreciate any information I hear.
Thank you.
I always take these things with a grain of salt, because I know that things change.

1 year ago, someone told RM that he was going to be drafted in the 1st round.

Last time I saw him, he was fouling out of an NCAA tourney game.

Again, I appreciate your information.

I think some people should just back off.

It really surprises me that this has turned into an argument.

poodoo

03-30-2006, 01:25 PM

Houstoncat wrote:

I would like him back, he could use the year and even two to develop his offense but frankly given first round money and the possibility of injury etc. I'd be gone too.

Exactly, Houstoncat. As much as I would selfishly love Rondo to return, I cannot fault him at all for going if he is essentially guaranteed to go in the first round (and, yes, I know there are no actual guarantees) and possibly as a lottery pick. I wish him nothing but the best!

DCWildcat

03-30-2006, 01:33 PM

Aike wrote: When Tubby talks about changes, the first people that come to my mind are the guys who were benched at times - Sims, Alleyne, and Bradley. Rondo played and played a lot.

Maybe Tubby and Rondo didn't always see eye to eye, but if Tubby was as dissatisfied with Rondo as some fans seem to believe, why did Rondo keep earning so much playing time?

Rondo led this team in minutes per game (4.3 more than second place Sparks), rebounding, assists, assist/turnover ratio, steals, and was second in scoring average.

flacat22 wrote: Aike wrote: "Involve his teammates as little as possible" doesn't sound right for someone who once had 31 assists in a high school game, playing along side one of the current Hawks.

flacat22 wrote: His game is tailor made for the NBA...one on one, involve the teammates as little as possible and stay in the spotlight...he'll make it easy for the NBA defenses, no need to guard him from 18' out...

Maybe that was a bit harsh (going back to a high school stat line is a bit of a reach though) but lets face facts can you say he is an NBA point guard based on his accomplishments (or lack therof) at the University of Kentucky? Iwant him to come back of course but there are players that Tubby is talking about when he mentions "changes" and he is one of them...if he wants to be a team player amd worl on other aspects of his game then great welcome him back, if not, good luck in the NBA.

Couldn't agree more, Aike. Nice post.

poodoo

03-30-2006, 01:38 PM

Aike wrote: When Tubby talks about changes, the first people that come to my mind are the guys who were benched at times - Sims, Alleyne, and Bradley. Rondo played and played a lot.

Maybe Tubby and Rondo didn't always see eye to eye, but if Tubby was as dissatisfied with Rondo as some fans seem to believe, why did Rondo keep earning so much playing time?

Rondo led this team in minutes per game (4.3 more than second place Sparks), rebounding, assists, assist/turnover ratio, steals, and was second in scoring average.

Exactly, Aike. Perception does not sometimes match reality. As you also say, Rondo once had thirty-one assists in a game at Oak Hill Academy. He had twelve assists in a game against Ole Miss this season, after which he was very happy, saying that he preferred getting the ball to teammates who score the points. Especially early in the year teammates did not come through with those points, and the offense depended more on Rondo.

Tubby benched some of those talented sophomores, including Rondo, because they were not doing some of the little things he valued in his system. FWIW, Brandon Stockton comments about the sophomores and theirlack of maturity because of their youthin a Matt May Cats' Pause column this week, including the comment, "They are such likable guys and we all get along really well." So much for all the RUMORS we hear about the players, and, yes, Rondo is one of those sophomores. :)

Unfortunately, fans tend to believe rumors too easily. Too, as some are saying, Rondo became the "whipping boy" for this team's lack of success. Personally, I think Rondo did not listen to Tubby as he should sometimes, but the good far outweighs the bad, and, yes, I think UK fans, in general,have been far too hard on Rondo. His stoic nature, I feel, has distanced himself from fans. As Aike pointed out, though, Rondo was never disciplined, although he, Morris, and Crawford did not grade out was well in regard to doing the little, but important, things in Tubby's system.

Good luck to Rajon Rondo! This fan will miss him if he goes.

kyjones

03-30-2006, 02:06 PM

My sources tell me that the SEC has two, count'em two teams in the final four. Further more, my sources have gone out on a limb and predicted that there will be three ACC teams in the Women's Final Four. But please keep it quiet.

poodoo

03-30-2006, 02:10 PM

NotFrank wrote: wildcat74 wrote: I love it when people have "sources".

You can believe what you want. This source is a high school friend of mine who is the director of international scouting for the TWolves. I'm just passing along what he told me.

Thanks for sharing the information, NotFrank. Too, from other posts from you I had figured you had a source in regard to the T'Wolves. FWIW, if Rondo goes pro, I would love for him to go there. I watch all of their games, as my younger son is a friendof Trenton Hassell from their days together at Austin Peay, and I knew Coach Casey from when I taught in Union County. Thus, it would be icing on the cake for Rajon to be part of the T'Wolves with Trenton and Coach Casey. :cool:

NotFrank

03-31-2006, 02:54 AM

I try and provide info that has been given to me. Of course I cannot name sources as they speak on the condition of anonymity. I will be the first one to admit that I was DEAD WRONG on Brandon Wright. That situation bears watching since he was promised TH going pro...but whatever and he ain't happy AT ALL. As for RR and this draft, the Hawks, Twolves anda third team that traded their draft pick for an overweight, lazy, health risk center are all in the IN LOVE with our point guard. That same team will seek an off-season trade of their sixth man/number one pick to move up.

poodoo

03-31-2006, 10:51 AM

NotFrank wrote:I will be the first one to admit that I was DEAD WRONG on Brandon Wright. That situation bears watching since he was promised TH going pro...but whatever and he ain't happy AT ALL.

______

Thanks for sharing that, along with the additional information about Rondo, NotFrank. Too, I had read yourinformation about Brandon Wright. You should not feel at all bad about being wrong on that one, for EVERYBODY was wrong, especiallyTubby himself. :(

Too, we have just seen adifference between Roy Williams (to whom we lost bothHansborough and Wright in extremely tight races). From everything I've heard, Tubby does not make promises. Ironically,I had posted that a friend of my husband had seen Wright at a competition in Marshall County and had pointedly asked Wright why he had chosen UNC over UK. His answer was that he was afraid he would not get enough playing timeto help with the NBA at UK. Hmmm.I suspect he may now bethinking about less playing time at UNC. That recruiting loss still makes mesick, and Iknow it makes Tubby really sick, according to everything I have read.

DonnieKat

03-31-2006, 05:29 PM

NotFrank wrote: DonnieKat wrote: tauzreborn wrote: Nobody had Charlie Villenuava going #8 either. If the Hawks need a pg to handle the ball and sell some tickets Rondo is their guy.

So what if Marcus Williams can shoot - Do you think moms and dads are going to buy their kids his jersey? -If they read the paper -NOT A CHANCE.

Rondo is electric. It has been a thrill to watch him play and I am sad it is over.

OK I am over it. Lets go CATS. I am looking forward to next season with our new cast coming in.

It was alleged that Kobe Bryant raped and sodomized a woman in Colorado. Damon Stoudemare smokes dope. Sammy Sosa did roids. Michael Vick gave a woman an STD. How are their jersey sales? I don't buy that argument for a minute. The fact that Marcus Williams soundly outplayed Rondo certainly didn't help Rajon's cause either.

Rondo has so many holes in his game he shouldn't even being a mid-round pick. His on the ball defense is bad. He can't shoot. He misses free throws. He gambles on defense. The only thing keeping him in lottery discussions is a weak European class this year and the fact that HS seniors can't declare.

Mark it down anywhere you want- the Hawks WILL NOT take Rondo with a top five pick...ever.

Mark it down as top five? Who said top five? I said the Hawks and Wolves love him. That's why it's a lottery...if the Hawks have a top ten, he is gone to them unless the Twolves grab him first. You are arguing against yourself.

There's a very good chance that the Hawks will land a top five pick in the lottery. They have the 4th worst record in the NBA right now, behind the Knicks, Bobcats and the Trailblazers. The chances of TWO teams lucking out in the lottery and passing them is highly unlikely. So......there's a 99% probability the Hawks pick at 4 or 5. Maybe 6. Even at six, they don't pick Rondo. Trust me. I'm not arguing against myself.