Washington
Philip Maymin
Basketball News Services
Would it make sense for Washington head coach Eddie Jordan to reunite with Jason Kidd, even at the cost of Gilbert Arenas? Sure, Arenas is younger, cheaper, a little healthier, and a better shooter, but Kidd is Kidd. Imagine if Kidd can do for Kwame Brown what he did for another #1 draft pick in New Jersey.
The Nets would save about $35-40 million on a one-for-one swap, which, while I may be wrong, I believe they can do despite the differing salaries because of their trade exceptions.
Eddie Jordan was long considered to be the main coach in New Jersey and after he left to be Washington's head coach, Byron Scott lasted less than three months before being ousted and replaced by his other assistant, Lawrence Frank. Jordan wants to run and push the ball and play Princeton offense and reward the big guys with easy buckets.
Who better to fit the bill than Kidd?
Yes, Arenas was the Most Improved Player two years ago, and he's only getting better. Yes, Kidd is getting older and his knee is wobbly. But he would not have to play 40 minutes a night: Larry Hughes is a more than capable backup.
Here's a little historical perspective. In 1988-1989, Phoenix point guard Kevin Johnson was named the NBA's Most Improved Player. One year later, he was young, he was hungry, and he was quick. Meanwhile, Magic Johnson had just turned 30 years old.
Which of those do you take for the 1990-1991 season? It's the exact same scenario as here.
In the 1990-1991 season, Magic averaged just under 20 points, 7 rebounds per game, and 12.5 assists, playing in 79 games. KJ averaged 22 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 10.1 assists.
Utah eliminated Phoenix in the first round. And the Lakers went to the Finals, falling to Michael Jordan's Bulls.
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Phil Tatman ofThe Orlando Sentinelwrites: Washington Wizards point guard Steve Blake will miss the first month of the season after injuring his ankle in a pickup game.
Deron Snyder ofUSA Todaywrites: I don't blame Jordan if he wants to lace 'em up again. But I also don't blame O'Neal if he wants no part of Jordan.According to The Miami Herald, O'Neal told teammates that Jordan has left him several messages, and he believes that Jordan wants to play for the Heat. The article said neither O'Neal nor the teammates he consulted are interested.