Monday February 2 2009 - 11:45am Eastern
If you haven’t seen it already - or at least heard about it - this is what the talk of the town is right now in Raptorland:
http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=3877144
My take on this?
Well, a couple of things …
1) If it’s true - Bosh actually has told Bryan Colangelo that he will not re-sign - then the Raptors have to act swiftly. If you hold onto CB4 for now, and try dealing him in the off-season, his value could be lower because teams may not be as willing to give a big package for the 4-time All Star … fearing that he’ll bolt from their team in 12 months and not re-sign long-term.
So that has to be determined first. Is this story LEGIT?
Stephen A. Smith has been known to spout-off on things before, but I’m not going to say he’s “wrong” until I hear what Bosh has to say. Which leads me to my second point …
2) The Raptors are on the practice floor as I’m writing this and we should hear from Bosh himself within the next hour or two. I’m not covering practice today because I have to get to the airport to catch the flight to Cleveland for tomorrow night’s game. On flight days - like today - I simply wouldn’t have time to go to practice, cut the tape, post the clips or interviews for the FAN, and then make it to the airport in time. So I never cover flight-day practices.
The FAN 590 is in attendance though, and you’ll hear from Bosh shortly.
3) Going back to Stephen A. and ESPN …
If this story is legit - and I’m not saying it isn’t - but, if it is true, why is it buried in that segment? Why is it third in the list of “topics” … behind Andrew Bynum and the Knicks schedule this week?
Call me crazy, but if a 4-time All Star and one of the best big men in the league has told his team that he’s not going to re-sign with them - essentially saying, “I’m outta here” - would that not be the LEAD story? Is that not more important than the Knicks schedule this week?
Plus, would ESPN not have a written piece on this story on the NBA page on ESPN.com? Ya know, amongst their game recaps and top stories, etc. - on the right side of the page?
Based on how little pub this is getting (and it came out almost 24 hours ago) on ESPN and based on how it was almost an after-thought in the original segment itself, I have my doubts as to the validity of the story.
But we’ll find out shortly - from Bosh himself - what the real deal is.
He didn’t say anything about this - or even hint at it - when I spoke to him last week about the Jalen Rose comments. So it will be interesting to see how he responds to Stephen A’s allegations.
Keep it tuned to the FAN 590 to hear Bosh’s comments, and I’ll try to check back later - with more thoughts - from Cleveland.
E. Smith
* 6:41pm *
UPDATE FROM CLEVELAND
Jonesy just gave me a call. I was down in the gym working out and didn’t see this myself …
But Jonesy said Stephen A. was just on ESPN and said something like the following (I’m paraphrasing):
He said he just got off the phone with Bryan Colangelo. He didn’t say anything in response to his chat with BC (and the fact that Colangelo is denying Smith’s story) but he did say in regards to Bosh flat-out denying the story as well … ‘What is he supposed to say? He’s got to stay there for another year+ and doesn’t want T.O. hating on him’
Again, I was paraphrasing.
Take that for what it’s worth folks.
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Well BC came out with a statement about it and even emailed SAS and apparently SAS has the “flu” so he couldn’t respond to the allegations. Seems like his story is bogus.
- DamonFurther to Damon’s post above, here’s the direct quote - from Bryan Colangelo - from the story in the Globe and Mail:
“You just don’t have those conversations this time of the year,” he said. “We talk about the team and the season, but we don’t talk contract or his future with the team now. You just don’t do that…and he’s not on the trade market.
“It’s a non-story. Stephen A. got a little carried away on TV. I’ve e-mailed him to talk about it but he’s in bed with the flu. Maybe the basketball Gods have something to do with that. I don’t know where that story came from.”
- E. SmithI am hoping it’s not true. I know Bosh wants to win. But if that rumor is deadly true….then B.Colangelo, Gherardini you guys should kick yourself for that. Bosh is NBA prone. Not no euro league roster and I find that is what’s killing his game. For Colangelo’s sake he better reconsider talking Bosh into staying and bringing in some players that can build chemistry with Bosh otherwise they proven they this Raptor squad a “WHITE-WASH” team!!!!
- AnthonyIf you’re implying that this team doesn’t win because of its “white” players, then I’m not even going to respond. That’s beyond ignorant.
- E. SmithMy guess is Bosh would like to be on a winning team …Also maybe a team with a higher profile .
- Chas CalzThis is not surprising .. Also the media and fans seem to be blaming Bosh a bit more than in the past ..
Colangelo will I presume spin the story in a way that reflects as well as possible on the team and its future ..
I hope that this story is untrue, and ESPN should be held accountable for these actions. Very unprofessional journalism. How disruptive is this to the team and to the fans of this franchise.
- PatIt has become like a “cancer” on this team. In this type of hostile environment, how likely is BC to be able to improve this team. Who will want to come here?
Funny how some folks are so willing to believe Stephen A. - a guy with a checkered past - yet so unwilling to believe Colangelo; to just cast-off his comments as “spinning” the story …
- E. SmithI realy like Bosh, and he is one of my favor NBA player. As a Raptors he is my team leader; however, he is overrated. Bosh will never lead this team to NBA title, he is just. And as I die hard Raptors fan, I don’t mind to trade him but make sure you are getting some good draft picks.
- GoranWhat appears to be true is that both Bosh and Bargs are somewhat “fragile”.
When the going gets tough or they get behind, they seem to shrink a bit on the court. They settle for jump shots and the body language/hanging heads in brutal. The other team KNOWS they have you.
Chris has always talked a good game, yelling on the attempted layups and telling the media the Raps have to “impose their will on other teams”.
It simply just doesn’t translate to the court.
Very seldomly have we seen anything resembling fire from Bargnani - someone needs to remind him he’s Italian and grow some pride.
Does Chris want out? Honestly it wouldn’t surprise me if he did, WERE THE CHOICE TO BE MADE TODAY.
But he’ll decide based on how he feels/if they’re winning more than a year away from now.
I presume he WANTS it to work out here becuase he still gets to be the man here and he doesn’t walk away from the extra millions come contract time.
For now, just watch the intensity level of the Boston’s and Clevelands and Laker’s et al.
You just don’t picture Garnett, LeBron and Kobe doing anything but scowling when they’re in a hotly contested game. They’re intense and their focused. And they want it bad.
When TO fans see that kind of effort and a couple of wins, they’ll be all over the cheering thing once again.
- GaryWhat i find disturbing about all of this is that bosh a franchise guy, hasnt’ just said. I am staying. He is going to dallas, we should try and get dirk for him. Lets hope
- jose haterFunny how some folks are so willing to believe Colangelo and distrust others in the media like Jalen Rose, Sam Smith and Zicarelli ..
- Chas CalzNotwithstanding the fact that Stephen A. Smith is more of a of sideshow attraction than any sort of credible reporter (perhaps he should be locked in a windowless room with Dick Vitale so that they can fight over who’s the biggest ignorant loudmouth), these constant stories from the popular American media are really becoming increasingly frustrating.
ESPN and all of the like-minded media outlets continue to gleefully trot out their supposed “experts” who then seem to take a fair amount of pleasure in spreading half-truths and false perceptions about the Toronto.
Rose and his telepathic conversations with Bosh, Screaming A. Smith and his source (i.e. himself), Weber and his ignorance about the tax situation (no worse than in many states in the US), Kenny and Charles making broad statements about a team they admittedly never watch, etc.
I get that it’s all about entertainment and perpetuating the mentality that the US of A is the best place on earth and that everywhere else is essentially garbage. But enough is enough! And what gets me the most is unapologetic smugness with which they spew these ignorant comments.
Anyways, sorry about the rant Eric. I know that winning would solve a lot but, that being said, I’m not a fairweather fan. If I was able to get through that 16-66 season, I can certainly make it through this one!
- PatrickNo, Chas, you’re missing the point. If you actually read my blog, then you know I said “If it’s true, then you have to trade Bosh.”
I’m not simply dismissing Stephen A’s comments - like you seem to be simply dismissing Colangelo’s. That’s the difference.
We really don’t know what the truth is - or who is telling the truth. You don’t. I don’t. But considering his checkered past, I’m less willing to believe Stephen A - for the reasons I laid out in my blog as well.
- E. SmithWhat media is 100% believable? Toronto media tells us we have an All Star in Bosh, a Top 5 Big Men in Oneal and a Top 3 Guard in Calderon and the leagues best 3 point shooter Kapono. Yet we are 11 games under 500? The reason the story is buried is because Toronto is an after thought to most NBA fan’s…
- Lenn PriceI just watched the clip and this is a guy who was simply asked what trade rumours are out there.
He spouted off Chris has told BC that he won’t resign, followed by Amare Stoudamire’s not happy in Phoenix and Shaq’s hearing he might be moved among several other “rumours”.
Most of it was clearly opionion.
I don’t think he understands the difference between rumour and fact ir journalistic integrity.
- GaryStephen A Smith is about as credible as a crystal ball, but this is one of those where there is smoke there is fire kind of things. Whether it is true or not, it does coincide with Bosh’s uninspired play over the last two games, where he looks like he’s checked out. BC has got to do a better job of assembling a competitve team, I still think he’s the right man for the job. But this “euro” experiment, of signing retreads from Europe has to end, this team is soft on every level and that has to change.
- Big MikeI agree with you Eric. Stephen A Smith was the same guy that was bashing Bosh less than a year ago. So how connected is he to Bosh. When is the last time Stephen A set foot in Canada at all. The whole Toronto media was asleep and Smith and Rose know more? It is non-sense. The real problem is the losing and the fans turning on Bosh and that will be more of an impact on if he leaves and goes. Instead of just writing off the guy and throwing him under the bus when he has never said anything about leaving here is a interesting idea…try supporting him and saying you want him to stay. That may not get you much attention but it is something that is rapidly going away in the sports world on all levels, management, players and fans it is called loyalty. It may be a foreign word for some so look it up if you need too!!!
- James BorbathWhat a shock Stephen A is causing a stir!…he has been known to do that over the years…. Regardless of what Stephen A has said, lets just look at this situation logically. I made this point a few weeks back and Eric just dismissed it… lets all look a the top 5 picks in Chris Bosh’s draft year…
1)Lebron
2)Darko (forget him he was a bust)
3)Carmelo Anthony
4)CB4
5)D.Wade
Lebron has been to the finals and will make it there again shortly…Carmelo is on a team that continues to get better by adding integral peices around Melo…D.Wade has already won a championship and his team is on the rise once again…. That leaves CB4 …..My question to all of you is would you stay if you were Chris Bosh?????? My most logical answer to that is HELL NO!
- NeilNo Eric , you’re missing the point .. To say Colangelo will spin the story in no way suggests I would dismiss his comments .. It means he likely will try to protect the Raps and Chris by his comments because that is part of his job .. Journalists, like Smith, Jalen Rose, Feschuk ,Zic.etc have no such job.
- Chas CalzI never speak up about the Raptors because the Leafs take up most of my time, but make no mistake, I have been a fan since Damon was drafted, and follow the team each and every game. That said, I have never been more excited to watch this team finally play basketball under Triano, despite the loosing.
Which brings me to my point, I have to question Bosh’s commitment despite this ESPN story.
Bosh starts the season and talks about being an MVP, not about leading the team, or team results.
Bosh publicly belittles teammates; Moon, Bargnani ect. when he himself has been guilty of the same D errors, or lack of commitment on the boards.
Finally, I have noticed his game and production drop since he has been awarded an all star selection.
All examples lead me to beleive that his priorities are with himself, and not the team. That alone makes me question if he will be back, more importantly it asks the question, should the Raptors take him back in 2010?
- Gianni Di FrancoThis is a non-story from a nobody. Stephen A is only hired by ESPN to make noise and help their ratings just like Jalen Rose.
That being said, Steve Nash, LeBron James, and Chris Bosh playing for the Knicks in 2010 looks pretty good!
- APE, great blog. Fans seem to be getting really bitter and lashing out at guys like you and Doug Smith for (in my eyes) pretty objective reporting. Keep up the good work Eric, dont let the venom get you down.
- BryanLet’s face it, Chris Bosh is an All-star in a league which is weak in general at the 4 spot. This is a league dominated by 2’s and 3’s at which the Raps are probably the weakest team in the league. Bosh does not elevate the play of the rest of his teammates the way Lebron, Kobe, or Wade do. He would give the Raps an advantage over other teams if they were respectable at the 2/3.
- MarvinTherefore it is up to BC to get the upgrades the team needs. Soon!!
Eric, as much as you Paul, Jack and Leo always seem to remind us that when you speak to NBA players they always state that they rate TO as one of the best cities in the NBA (ie Paul Pierce). I still think that players are more inclined to play in cities like Milwaukee, Indy, OKC than in Toronto. It’s like when you go on vacation to Dom.Rep., or Cuba, You always come back home and tell your friends how much fun you had there and how it’s a great place, but if you had a choice to work and live there I doubt you’d be jumping on the plane!! I think the Raptors missed the boat a few years ago when they had a chance to sign Steve Nash as a free agent, maybe he would have never had 2 MVP awards with the Raptors but I think he should be the one that should lead this team to a championship. Re-unite Dirk and Nash here for 2010!! Keep up the good work E!
- LetsGoRapsVCSuxI agree with Eric in that if the story is true, Bosh needs to be traded sooner than later, but patience is key to maximize his value. That being said, Stephen A is paid to get attention..whether he is right or wrong no one really cares..he is just entertaining to watch..but entertaining doesn’t mean credible.
In all honesty, whether this story is true or not, I believe that there is a greater chance of Bosh walking. He has expressed his dissatisfaction with the fans on numerous occasions, once the disconnect with the Fans begins, it rarely ever turns around. And given the way this season has gone, we are likely to be on the receiving end of more blowouts leading to more boos…eventually leading to a permanent negative web requiring a team overhaul. Unless Colangelo can pull what Danny Ainge did in Boston to satisfy Pierce, then its time to go another direction.
- VictorEric can you honestly say that the players that BC has brought in since he has been here, are an indication of his comittment to winning? Jamario, Kapono, Voskul, TJ (an undersized injury progned point guard,) Parker, Bargnani, Solomon? none of these players have big game experience and are extreamly inconsistant and mediocore.
I can recall when Sam was taking the rap for kapono’s three point attempts going down, Yet I see no change since Triano took over. This chemistry is a diaster stemmin back from last year. last year we had three wingman. Parker,Delfino& Kapono that lived on that three point line not to mention you 3 spot moon and your sorry excuse for a 5 Bargnani that also camped out on the arc. You tell me Eric what is out identity and where are we going?
For the young skilled players on the raptors(Calderone&Bosh) to excel and get to the next level a real GM thinks of surrounding them with players with big game experience, much like Vince Carter was.
Im not saying that Stephen A Smith is right, however the team assembled by Brian Colangelo over his tenure here in Toronto is a slap in the face to Bosh, espcially this year, No proper starting wing, no ventran backup pointguard and the list goes on. If Stephen is right it would not at all surprise me. Stephen’s comment’s should not be totally dismissed especially when you see that Bosh has not shot down any remarks about him leaving Toronto. Would not Bosh take a firm stance if these comments were not true especially knowing that comments about him leaving poses a huge distraction to the fans and to the organization.?
In any business if a team has shown signs of a rapid decline, management would be held accountable. Why should it be any different in this case.
- NeilWho even listens to this FOOL? if you ever see his name come up in anything just ignore it, unless its his obituary.
- TomGfromBramptonAs with everyone else, i’m pretty sure the reaction was “WHOA”…but after letting it settle for a bit one has to look back and see where this is all coming from. ESPN is a reputible source, no dobut, but they don’t see to give a rats behind of on-goings in the great white north. As well…Stephen A. Smith??? Ca’mon..really?? As stated above, and I don’t know what the hate is with T.O. but this is the same guy that lost his own damn show and has been know to blow things way outta proportion…
- Arti think that bosh is sorta soft. i mean when the team is down some points, he just takes a fadeaway. and he should get more boards. his averages now arent that reflective of his overall play this season, because he had most of his big games in the beginning of the season. if we could packagehim to miami for beasley and marion, that would be great
- KelvinTo hell with SAS, Jalen and people who run their mouth. Until the day Chris Bosh or any player for that matter wants to make the statements either in public,private, on a blog or newspaper that they want to be traded then as long as They put on a Raps Jersey, They should have our support! We should cheer our team on, let them know they have our support, When they play crumby like they have we still love’em but we let them know they play crumby! I think their are bigger issues in Raptorland that need to be corrected i.e: winning,filling the 2 and 3 spots. Anthony, I’m calling you out dude, A remark based on somebody skin color isn’t needed. Great players come in all genders, shapes, sizes and believe it or not SKIN Color. I hope you understand that a remark like “White-wash” has no valor or place in a discussion in sports! Next Game Vs. Cavs, i’m going to be honest, I want the Cavs to win to keep the “Eric Smith shaving his beard marathon” going. Eric if this happens I would hope you do it on the last episode of hoops cause i will PVR it dude. after that they win all remaining games!!
- Lanny from WhitbyOnce I saw “Jalen” and “journalist” in the same sentence, I think I stopped reading.
- E. SmithFYI … for those of you that may have missed it … click on this link to hear from Bosh himself.
This was at practice earlier today. And you’ll hear him deny the Stephen A. “story” …
http://www.fan590.com/media.jsp?content=20090202_155415_24796
- E. SmithEric when I was in South Carolina last Nov. Stephen A Smith was saying the same thing on his basketball show on ESPN.Why is the story now news why wasn’t it news in Nov.?
- steve mcinosh“Once I saw “Jalen” and “journalist” in the same sentence, I think I stopped reading.” AHAHAHA… Nevertheless, as was mentioned above, where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
P.S. Jalen and Stephen A. Smith are not journalists but rather, television personalities (broadcasters?)….there’s a BIG difference.
- Mr. TMarion, Bealsey, and a first round pick in 2010 for bosh
i think so
- jose haterJose is the worst defensive starting point guard in the nba.
Changes need to happen
- jose haterNice to see him out and out say the guy was just making it up and Coangelo says the same thing.
End of story, except that we’ll rehash over and over for another few days and then some other small time US announcer clown will bang his “pay-attention-to-me” drum again.
Jalen Rose credible as a journalist….hahahahahah
next you’ll be quoting Charles Barkley.
Bosh will never be an all-league centre. Hasn’t got the grit for it imo. But put a banging centre beside him (as I hope JO will still turn out to be) and let Bargs grow into his body and we’re just a few parts away from a real contender.
As long as Moon is a starter on your team, you KNOW you’re not deep enough to contend.
- GaryAmare for Bosh? or get Robin Lopes? and maybe get Nash and some other player from Phoenix!
Is this a good deal get Robin Lopes?
- Raptors FANThe Raptors have talent and assets thanks to Brian Colangelo. This team is in no way a finished product of Brian Colangelos rebuild. Players are still going to be moved before the raptors can contend for a championship. When BC came here he may not of even thought about building around Bosh long term. Im almost positive BC does not think his team can win without a real good SG or SF. He’s just waiting to get his man just like other teams are waiting to get a player like bosh or bargnani or oneil even. If the Raptors won 55 games this year there still would of been room to improve because of the assets on the team. Bright future for this team and BC is the man.
- Rob from brantford* 6:41pm *
UPDATE FROM CLEVELAND
Jonesy just gave me a call. I was down in the gym working out and didn’t see this myself …
But Jonesy said Stephen A. was just on ESPN and said something like the following (I’m paraphrasing):
He said he just got off the phone with Bryan Colangelo. He didn’t say anything in response to his chat with BC (and the fact that Colangelo is denying Smith’s story) but he did say in regards to Bosh flat-out denying the story as well … ‘What is he supposed to say? He’s got to stay there for another year+ and doesn’t want T.O. hating on him’
Again, I was paraphrasing.
Take that for what it’s worth folks.
- E. SmithWell, if he is claiming to have spoken to Colangelo earlier and still is sticking to his story than maybe there’s some truth to it. Bosh has been hearing it from fans since December (well, I’ve been one of the few brave ones to call him out in December, i.e. comparing him to VC because he was settling and in love with his jumper), this will only intensify the criticism, especially after the last two games where he pretty much was a no-show!
- Mr. TGet Robin Lopes? and get Nash and some a first round pick!
(If this going to happen in my opinion no,) because I belief Bosh what he is saying and ESPN is saying these things because they think they have the right to do that which I HATE!
If we are going to get O’Neil for Marion get we instead get Beasley for O’Neail instead of Marion! could that work Eric or no?
- Raptors FANAlong with the whole where there’s smoke there’s fire thing…he’s just fanning the flames.
- AndreaWas Cb supposed to say “yes I said that” ? No. But he could give another non-committal answer like he did when asked about Rose’s comment before.
The supposed “journalist” did his job and got more people to say his name and follow his little story than he normally does in a month. Remember, Bosh was just one of many big names he said were on their way out of their respective teams.
And denied or not, the TO media love this too - 48 comments and counting here already and of cource each paper will have at least one article on this in the morning.
- GaryAll I have to say is if this is true then Colangelo and the Raptors organization are in deeper trouble as expected. What do you think they should do to actually prevent this from happening Eric?
- StevenWhatever spin media types will put on the situation is irrelevant. The truth is undeniably on the floor, and on the floor Bosh went from playing out of his head at the start of the season, to mailing in his ’shift’.
I’ve been a Bosh supporter for years now, but his reaction to being boo’ed is becoming ridiculous. Fans boo not because they’re “fairweather” or ignorant - they’re booing because of a painfully obvious lack of effort, and the fact that they’re likely having second thoughts about the thousands they spent on seasons.
We’ve seen this soap opera before, and frankly if CB4 wants out all the best to him - as long as we don’t get hosed, again.
- JoeMay I add that I heard they booed Bosh everytime he touches the ball. Now you gotta agree with me Eric that this is a player that puts his heart out for the team and yet he is disrespected?! It’s those so called fans (hockey fans) that should be booed!! If they are gonna attend games and just keep quiet until they just wanna boo a heart effort player then maybe their butts should just not attend games those imbeciles!!!
- StevenCalderone
How can anyone hate Calderone. His position more than is magnified by the talent of the team. My only criticism of Jose is he has to believe more in himself. Take more chances in shooting and driving. Take more risk on his passes to set up more dunks. Work on his defense.
Jose will be an all star when he is willing to take the chances all stars take.
Bosh and Andrea are too much alike. Bosh disappears in the play-offs and could be traded for much more. Trade Bosh if there is a market for him and get a great two or three or a dominant center and make Andrea the four.
- MilesI know that Shawn Marion didn’t play for Miami for a while, how many games does he have to play in order to get this Marion and O’Neail trade to go down?
- Raps FanIf you believe Stephen A. Smith would the Suns be interested in trading Amare for Jermaine as he might be a beter fit for the Suns new style.
Also do you think it would be good for the Raps to go after Tyrus Thomas who is a good inside man or David Lee who is better then Humphries.
- DMillarThis situation is nothing new for Toronto sports fans. Most professional athletes are highly competitive and losing is unacceptable. Curtis Joseph wanted out, Roger Clemens wanted out, Vince Carter wanted out and Roy Halladay is in the on -deck circle. What on earth is there to motivate Bosh to stay here. Only Sundin showed loyalty and we ran him out of town. Toronto is the only North American City to fire all four head coaches in the same year. Mitchell, Gibbons, Maurice and Stubler. The bottom line is we suck. If you want your best athletes to stay, give them some support.
- Brian ShugarJournalist are paid turn small extreams into large one’s. fact of the matter here is everyone can hate on Jalen and Stephen all they want, But there is a moral to every story and this one is plain and simple. The Raptor superstars patience is running out with this rapidly declining team, just as it did with Vince Carter. In many cases in pro sports when a team has been on the decline the superstars performance takes a hit as well.
- Thomas.For those of you who don’t have a vested interest in faithfully backing Colangelo. there’s a good article in today’s National Post by Eric Koreen ..
- Chas CalzIt has a number of Colangelo’s quotes .. Some might call it self-serving spin , but you might disagree .
More reports that the O’Neil for Marion trade is a when not if.
-I don’t pretend to know if that a good deal straight up or just “change is as good as a rest” but I can’t emphasize enough that once that goes down, Bosh/Bargnani will continue to struggle with the league’s big men and we’ll be crying for interior defense and toughness AGAIN.
Neither of which Bosh or Bargnani are capable of supplying and have proven it time and time again.
WHO WILL REBOUND AND BLOCK?
- Garyhi eric,
- robert.sFor what it’s worth along with all the damage control with bosh and bc, bosh could quell the rumors by stating he is here to stay for the long term but hasn’t which is an answer in and of itself so bc should look for the best package he can get for bosh and send him to dallas for howard,terry dampier and a first round pick, and everyone can be happy then in raptorland. would prpbably keep jermaine o neal as he has better value next year as an expiring contract, thx for the blog.
So, Bosh says he didn’t say it. Colangelo says he didn’t say it. But one guy - who has been a known loud-mouth in the past says it, and folks want to believe him?
That’s fine.
But I’ll say this … I have covered Bosh since he first put on a Raptors uniform. To my knowledge/memory, the man has never lied to me in the past. Could he be “lying” now? Sure, that’s possible. But I’m going to take a man for his word right now.
What would folks want Bosh and/or Colangelo to say?
*COULD* this story be true? Yes. *COULD* Stephen A. be telling the truth? Sure.
But if both parties (Bosh and Colangelo) are strictly denying the story, does that not mean something?
Could they be spinning it? Yes. But could they be telling the truth? Absolutely.
Next time you’re accused of doing something … we’ll all just assume you’re guilty, no matter how much you plead your innocence.
- E. SmithLet me put it this way Eric. With dirty rumors or lack of support can run an amazing player out of this city for people’s non-sense. Only the lil time we have left will tell.
- StevenGet a grip people…
Steven A Smith said it! No more needs to be said on the subject…
- ShawnS. Smith who cares!! lets not lose focus of the real problems in toronto. This team is NO GOOD! Basketball is a simple game and looking at winning teams will give u a simple formula.
Lets be honest before every season in the NBA you can count on one hand which teams are REALLY playing for the title.. this year we have the Lakers,Spurs,Celtics,and Cavs. With that being said there is no shame in looking towards them for help in building a winning team.
Building a winning team…
1. 2 guys that can score 20+ a game. raptors = NO
2. Strong Defence(permeter/post). raptors = NO
3. Guards that can create their own shot off the dribble/attack the net. raptors = NO ‘not even close’
4. Bigs that can score in the paint consistantly. raptors = NO
5. ONE big that can open up the court by hitting jumpers 15-18ft. raptors = YES’too many’
6. Bench Depth. raptors = NO
7. Great Coaches. raptors= NO.. sorry die hard canadian supporters jay is not even close but again what he is working with isn’t that great.
8. Teams are not based on shooting 3pointers. * Very important point ‘YOU WILL NOT WIN THE TITLE IN THE NBA IF U LIVE ON TH 3PT SHOT’ I.E PHX/NY/G.S/ORL/TOR/POR
9. Front Office that understands the right formula. raptors = NO
10. A SUPERSTAR!!! raptors= NO
* Understand there is a big differance between a ‘STAR’ I.E Chris Bosh/Joe Johnson/Carmelo Anthony..etc And a ‘SUPERSTAR’ I.E Kobe Bryant/LeBron James/Tim Duncan
- clutch_kclutch_k…well said, I agree with almost all your points, especially the one about the difference between a start and a superstar…Bosh is a nice player, you can build a team with him but not as your # 1.
- Mr. TColangelo on Yahoo Jan 21 said ” we are very disappointed where we are .. but keep in perspective we have gone through a coaching change and have lost center and G for 10 games ” .
- Chas CalzNow to use an unnecessary coaching change that you made to improve the team but has done the opposite as an excuse is kind of like complaining you’re an orphan after you shoot your parents .,.
As for injuries, O’Neal had a history of injuries and Raps traded for him ..
April 2008:
Bosh to Stephen A Smith about Manute Bol comment:
If you have respect for someone, you expect that same respect back,” Bosh said yesterday. “If you’re a classless person like that, I mean, I guess that shows how you are, what kind of person you really are.
Obviously Stephen A Smith has something against Bosh and likes messing with his head.
- ScottFYI … for more thoughts on Bosh, check out Jonesy’s column on Sportsnet.ca today, with comments from Bosh’s agent, Henry Thomas:
http://www.sportsnet.ca/basketball/blogs/2009/02/03/bosh_fast_break/
- E. SmithSteve Simmons (Toronto Sun) has written an interesting article regarding “the latest Raptors misinformation.”
- Ivanhttp://www.torontosun.com/sports/columnists/steve_simmons/2009/02/03/8243031-sun.html
Notice people that ever since that MoPete left Toronto after during the 2007 offseason and ever since Kapono & Moon came that the chemistry was deceased? Mr. T. I agree when you said you can build with Bosh but not alone. It would have to be him and another player that has that ruthless aggression and knows Bosh’s game the same way Bosh would know that player’s game. This euro thing is messing him up big.
- Steven