LeBron James will play the PF Position next season

[Lebron23]

http://www.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/James_LeBron_cle.jpg


The Cavaliers will search for a tall wing this summer that will allow LeBron James shift to the power forward position.

Potential candidates include veterans such as Grant Hill, Anthony Parker, Marquis Daniels, Josh Childress and Matt Barnes.

[D-Rose]

Would create horrible defensive matchups for LeBron.

Doubt that happens.

[Maniak]

This could be interesting....

:ohwell:

[YAWN]

hmmm

[lilgodfather1]

I doubt this happens. This is just an option we have at this time. if all else falls through, then this option may be exploreda.

[sergiorodriguez]

Lebron is strong enough and athletic enough to even guard centers, it wont be a mismatch for him to guard PFs, he'd probably be really good at it.

This is good news for the Cavs, and Lebron, he will shoot higher percentage shots and get his teammates better shots from the low post, less pullup jumpers and 3s, which are Lebrons only weakness right now.

They need an AK47 or Gerald Wallace type at the 3-or perhaps Hedo!

[Lebron23]

How about this starting 5?

C- Shaquille O'Neal
F- LeBron James
F- Charlie Villanueva
G- Danny Green
G- Mo Williams

By the way Larry Bird played the PF Position earlier in his NBA Career, and he averaged a double double.

[D-Rose]

Lebron is strong enough and athletic enough to even guard centers, it wont be a mismatch for him to guard PFs, he'd probably be really good at it.

This is good news for the Cavs, and Lebron, he will shoot higher percentage shots and get his teammates better shots from the low post, less pullup jumpers and 3s, which are Lebrons only weakness right now.

They need an AK47 or Gerald Wallace type at the 3-or perhaps Hedo!
LeBron would not be able to guard a skilled PF that is 7 ft or close like Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, Pau Gasol, Dirk, etc.

[Snoop_Cat]

Start West over Mo Williams... he can defend and Cavs need some scoring off that excuse of a bench

[Showtime]

Would create horrible defensive matchups for LeBron.

Doubt that happens.
Like who? There's not that many post threats these days. Who are the PF's that Lebron can't handle?

[YoungRich]

LeBron would not be able to guard a skilled PF that is 7 ft or close like Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, Pau Gasol, Dirk, etc.
thats why you sign the tall wing?cause you will ahve sahq and z right infront of the rim for d

[nbastatus]

Like who? There's not that many post threats these days. Who are the PF's that Lebron can't handle?
Pau Gasol? :confusedshrug:

[sergiorodriguez]

LeBron would not be able to guard a skilled PF that is 7 ft or close like Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, Pau Gasol, Dirk, etc.
yeh he would, he is like 6'9 270 pounds with insane hops and quickness and good length. He can outmuscle anyone on the blocks, and keep up with any of the quicker ones-Pau and Dirk for example he is quicker than.

He wouldn't be guarding Duncan anyways, they got Shaq for that.

[lilgodfather1]

LeBron would not be able to guard a skilled PF that is 7 ft or close like Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, Pau Gasol, Dirk, etc.
I agree that he would not be able to guard them as well as say Tim Duncan could guard them, but for the most part you just named finesse bigs (basically all the NBA has left now :( ) and honestly it is not that hard for a player wih LeBrons athletecism to stay in front of and get up on a 7 footer that is primarily a jump shooter. For example if TD backs him down then yes he will get scored on more then say KG would, but if TD fronts him and tries to shoot over him LeBrons athletecism is so vast that it makes TD's height advantage minimal at best.

[Lebron23]

LeBron James

Height: 6'9"
Weight: 270 lbs
Wing Span: 7'1"

He's the same size as Prime Karl Malone, and LeBron is a better athlete than the Mailman.


http://www.prosportsmemorabilia.com/Images/Product/33-40/33-40395-F.jpg

[D-Rose]

Like who? There's not that many post threats these days. Who are the PF's that Lebron can't handle?
I'd love to see Garnett back him down and score every time in the ECF or Gasol/Duncan in the Finals.

This wouldn't work, they'd put Villanueva at the PF and unless he really sucks, they'd try LeBron.

You want LeBron to guard elite PFs AND run around the court on the offensive side and create plays for everyone?

[nbastatus]

I'd love to see Garnett back him down and score every time in the ECF or Gasol/Duncan in the Finals.

This wouldn't work, they'd put Villanueva at the PF and unless he really sucks, they'd try LeBron.

You want LeBron to guard elite PFs AND run around the court on the offensive side and create plays for everyone?
i'd like to see that.

[Mikaiel]

LeBron would not be able to guard a skilled PF that is 7 ft or close like Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, Pau Gasol, Dirk, etc.

He can guard Dirk. He already proved it.

And he wouldn't need to guard Duncan, Shaq and Z will do that. He can guard Bonner or Kurt Thomas, or even Sheed if they sign him.

But Pau and KG would be problematic, but at least it's a better option than having CV guarding those guys ...

If we can get a solid wing player, maybe with a sign-and-trade for Varejao, I wouldn't mind LeBron playing the 4.

It worked with Orlando and Rashard Lewis.

[KG5MVP]

FINALLY!!

all this time i asked why doesn't lebron play as a PF when he has the talent and body

all hail the greatest PF in history!!:bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:

[lilgodfather1]

The only reason that I could see Bron playing PF is if we got Ron Artest with the MLE.

[spree43]

Kleiza would be a nice fit

[D-Rose]

We'll see, it should be interesting how it would work on the court.

Doubt the Cavs do it though.



LeBron James

Height: 6'9"
Weight: 270 lbs
Wing Span: 7'1"

He's the same size as Prime Karl Malone, and LeBron is a better athlete than the Mailman.




LeBron is 6'8 250.

[Lebron23]

We'll se, it should be interesting how it would work on the court.

Doubt the Cavs do it though.




LeBron is 6'8 250.


Don't believe everything that's listed on NBA.com. Do you still believe that Dwight Howard is a legit 6'11"?

Howard is only an inch taller than LeBron.

http://www.sportsbettingbookmakers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/lebron-james-and-dwight-howard.jpg

http://www.nba.com/media/cavaliers/cleorl_080317_006.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/21dlf13.jpg

[KG5MVP]

We'll see, it should be interesting how it would work on the court.

Doubt the Cavs do it though.




LeBron is 6'8 250.

charles barkley is 6'6

[Mikaiel]

LeBron is 6'8 250.

He said he was 6'9. Nobody knows how much he weighs though. For some reason he's keeping it secret.

[Lebron23]

http://abritishman.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/howard-and-james-share-a-few-words-a-time-out-during-game-3-of-the-eastern-conference-finals-played-at-the-amway-arena-in-orlando-florida.jpg


The Best Center in the NBA meets the Future Best PF in the League.

[D-Rose]

Don't believe everything that's listed on NBA.com. Do you still believe that Dwight Howard is a legit 6'11"?

Howard is only an inch taller than LeBron.

http://www.sportsbettingbookmakers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/lebron-james-and-dwight-howard.jpg

http://www.nba.com/media/cavaliers/cleorl_080317_006.jpg
Only an inch?

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/media/photo/2008-08/41842202.jpg

:oldlol: :oldlol:

[BigTicket]

Honestly I think this is just a trick, they are trying to get Varejao for a lower price by signaling that they don't really need him. Oldest trick in the book.

Lebron may play some PF at time, he did this year as well, but he won't be a fulltime starter at PF, not going to happen.

Fun to think that he started his career at PG though.

[gyu]

He said he was 6'9. Nobody knows how much he weighs though. For some reason he's keeping it secret.
He said he's like 260.

And for those Dwight-LeBron pics, in the first pic Dwight is clearly standing behind LeBron. Why not look at the team USA group pic where they are standing from tallest to shortest? Clearly Dwight is taller.

http://www.onemanfastbreak.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/usa_basketball_team.jpg

Even if LeBron plays the PF I don't see him playing offense that much more differently than he does now.

[Lebron23]

Only an inch?

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/media/photo/2008-08/41842202.jpg

:oldlol: :oldlol:


That's a very bad Angle. Check the Pictures above.

:cheers:

[lilgodfather1]

Honestly I think this is just a trick, they are trying to get Varejao for a lower price by signaling that they don't really need him. Oldest trick in the book.

Lebron may play some PF at time, he did this year as well, but he won't be a fulltime starter at PF, not going to happen.

Fun to think that he started his career at PG though.
He could realistically go from 1-4 in a span of 10 years. Amazing.

[Lakeshow3]

That would be a disaster waiting to happen. LeBron has already said how playing the post is "boring" to him. Do you really think he could play every game down there without drifting out to the perimeter? LeBron is a wing that should use his size, speed and strength to create problematic matchups in the post against other wings.

[Grinder]

How about this starting 5?

C- Shaquille O'Neal
F- LeBron James
F- Charlie Villanueva
G- Danny Green
G- Mo Williams

By the way Larry Bird played the PF Position earlier in his NBA Career, and he averaged a double double.

Why the hell would you start Danny Green over Delonte West?

Have you even seen Green play?

[Fatal9]

Only an inch?

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/media/photo/2008-08/41842202.jpg
Here's a better picture from another Olympic medal ceremony:

http://www.baltimoresun.com/media/photo/2008-08/41509632.jpg

:oldlol:

[Lebron23]

Why the hell would you start Danny Green over Delonte West?

Have you even seen Green play?


Because West is only 6'2". If the Cavs fail to acquire a 6'6" SG/SF I can see Mike Brown giving more playing time to Danny Green.

West is the only player that can play the PG position after Mo Williams.

Daniel Gibson is a F*cking Combo Guard.

[Mikaiel]

Could we please stop with the pics ? Who cares how tall Dwight is ? And there are many variables in these pics. The angle, who's furthest away from the objective, how straight they stand, the distance between their 2 feet. Please stop, it doesn't prove anything.


That would be a disaster waiting to happen. LeBron has already said how playing the post is "boring" to him. Do you really think he could play every game down there without drifting out to the perimeter? LeBron is a wing that should use his size, speed and strength to create problematic matchups in the post against other wings.

Being a PF doesn't mean you have to play in the paint. On offense, he'll play the exact same way. It's just that he'd have to guard other PFs.

[Grinder]

Because West is only 6'2". If the Cavs fail to acquire a 6'6" SG/SF I can see Mike Brown giving more playing time to Danny Green.

West is the only player that can play the PG position after Mo Williams.

Daniel Gibson is a F*cking Combo Guard.

Delonte West is an excellent defender despite his size and gives defenses a lot of trouble, Danny Green is streaky and not an NBA started on a good team.

[D-Rose]

I'm guessing Duncan is 1 inch taller than LeBron as well

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3jbATzvBQKo/SZsc8eV-4oI/AAAAAAAAAOM/NererYONfHc/s400/CIMG2451.JPG

http://images.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/_photos/2006-09-02-usa-topper.jpg

Bosh, Dwight, Miller are all 1 inch taller than LBJ

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/041g9rn2FNglY/340x.jpg

...

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.fanhouse.com/media/2008/05/lebron-and-the-celtics.jpg

KG n LBJ height difference...

[inclinerator]

That's Larry Nance.


:oldlol: :oldlol: :oldlol:
****** i meant larry bird. Larry Legend has strength size speed and skill on Lebron

[Mikaiel]

Here's a better picture from another Olympic medal ceremony:

http://www.baltimoresun.com/media/photo/2008-08/41509632.jpg

:oldlol:

You're aware he barely played, right ?


Larry Legend has strength size speed and skill on Lebron

Strength ? Speed ? :wtf: :wtf: :wtf:

[inclinerator]

yea i recall larry bird bench press 400 for 10 reps and having a 45 inch vertial leap remember that time he chased down michael jordan and blocked his shot?

[Lebron23]

****** i meant larry bird. Larry Legend has strength size speed and skill on Lebron


What are you talking about? LeBron is stronger, faster than Larry Bird. Prime Larry Bird is the better 3 points shooter.

[cavsfanatic]

****** i meant larry bird. Larry Legend has strength size speed and skill on Lebron
Lmfao! That's the funniest joke I heard in a while

[lilgodfather1]

****** i meant larry bird. Larry Legend has strength size speed and skill on Lebron
I thought you were joking in the first one. But then you post a second time. So I quoted you, hoping, no praying that you had white font on. Because nobody in their right mind would say something so idiotic unless they were high/drunk/kicked in the head by a horse.

[cavsfanatic]

Oh yea lebron is not gonna start at pf. He's domination at the sf so y would they change

[inclinerator]

lol u guys are seriously underrating Larry Legend. You must not have watched his clips of him doing 360 dunks and crossing over multiple defenders

[lilgodfather1]

lol u guys are seriously underrating Larry Legend. You must not have watched his clips of him doing 360 dunks and crossing over multiple defenders
Larry was taller, but what Larry had in height LeBron makes up for with his insane ability to leave the floor.

[inclinerator]

yea i know he is pretty quick at leaving the floor if ya know what i mean

[KeylessEntry]

I think this is a good idea considering Shaq will be starting center. Put another wing out who can stretch the defense.

[Butters]

Just what i want to see,a PF who has no post game.
inc people jumping on me that he has one but just doesn't like to post up

[inclinerator]

here is an example of larry legend's athleticism
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bi-B_AExICk

[D-Rose]

here is an example of larry legend's athleticism
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bi-B_AExICk
Here is an example of larry legend's quickness
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEuaxyQTIE4

[T-bomb 25]

Lebron is strong enough and athletic enough to even guard centers, it wont be a mismatch for him to guard PFs, he'd probably be really good at it.

This is good news for the Cavs, and Lebron, he will shoot higher percentage shots and get his teammates better shots from the low post, less pullup jumpers and 3s, which are Lebrons only weakness right now.

They need an AK47 or Gerald Wallace type at the 3-or perhaps Hedo!His post game is his biggest weekness,I think its a horrible idea,considering Shaq will already be on the block and he is a very good passer out of the post,plus he can really post Lebron clearly cannot,he's not even 1 of the better SF at posting its even 2guards that post better than he does,bad...bad idea.

[inclinerator]

larry bird's agility
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4x7jG1XGfE&feature=related

[KG5MVP]

Lebron needs to be learn how to dominate like Barkley

[inclinerator]

Lebron needs to be learn how to dominate like Barkley
how so? Lebron does not have the agility strength speed. He can only dominate with skills

[inclinerator]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSZY75UC8m0&feature=related
look at larry birds athleti scim!!

last one lol sorry guys it was fun before but its boring now

[Erudus]

http://www.prosportsmemorabilia.com/Images/Product/33-40/33-40395-F.jpg
That picture reminds me so much of this one

http://www.tvworthwatching.com/blog/nba%20lebron%20james%20dunk.jpg

[amfirst]

Bad idea, LB is not skilled enough in the post and will be undersize. He needs to stay on the periameter and drive the ball.

[T-bomb 25]

Bad idea, LB is not skilled enough in the post and will be undersize. He needs to stay on the periameter and drive the ball.Yup.

[spree43]

I find it kind of funny that the guy that was too soft to play small forward and too slow to play the two in seatle is now starting pf for the magic at 6'10 215 (probably 225 now)

but the manchild Lebron James (6'9 260) isn't big or strong enough to play on todays phsically dominant power forwards

You all need to understand we're not saying he plays in the post, just is listed as a pf and either he or the sf guard the oposing pf the same as lewis

[MMM]

I've always perfered LeBron in the post then him at the top of the key going 1against 5. In the post it is deficult to have defenders swarm you like you would see happen when he goes 1 vs 5. Also it is a lot easier to find the open man when the doubles do come.

[T-bomb 25]

I've always perfered LeBron in the post then him at the top of the key going 1against 5. In the post it is deficult to have defenders swarm you like you would see happen when he goes 1 vs 5. Also it is a lot easier to find the open man when the doubles do come.Why would they double him when all the other 29 teams know his post game is anemic?

[Mikaiel]

Damn, I know this board was stupid, but damn !

Just because he'd be a PF doesn't mean he'd have to play in the post. He won't change his game.

[RedBlackAttack]

Damn, I know this board was stupid, but damn !

Just because he'd be a PF doesn't mean he'd have to play in the post. He won't change his game.
This thread is a litany of horrible posts. Moving to PF does not mean that he has to change his offensive game in the least. All it means is that, occasionally, he may be matched up defensively with massive 4's like Rashard Lewis and that the Cavs will put more emphasis on a smaller lineup... Which they've been experimenting with for the past couple of seasons anyway (with great success much of the time).

Saying that he has to play in the post because he is listed as a 4 is as asinine as saying that no guard can play in the post simply because of where they are listed on the roster.

"Michael Jordan was a shooting guard. To think that he can play in the post is laughable. He is listed as a 2, for God's sake!"

[YAWN]

This thread is a litany of horrible posts. Moving to PF does not mean that he has to change his offensive game in the least. All it means is that, occasionally, he may be matched up defensively with massive 4's like Rashard Lewis and that the Cavs will put more emphasis on a smaller lineup... Which they've been experimenting with for the past couple of seasons anyway (with great success much of the time).

Saying that he has to play in the post because he is listed as a 4 is as asinine as saying that no guard can play in the post simply because of where they are listed on the roster.

"Michael Jordan was a shooting guard. To think that he can play in the post is laughable. He is listed as a 2, for God's sake!"

if what you are insinuating is correct then why bother announcing that lebron is going to be listed as a 4. if nothing at all is going to change as you say, whats the point of making a deal about it?

personally i think its dumb if he is going to be switching back to guarding a different player after every possession. frankly this whole idea is dumb, he will be a sf and play just as he did last season.

[MMM]

Why would they double him when all the other 29 teams know his post game is anemic?

He certainly isn't the most gifted player with his back to the back but he is getting better. Last season you can see at times they were using it more and more in the offense and as they did that he did improve. His post game still needs a lot of work but you should remember he could also face up from the block which is when he can draw the double teams.

[RedBlackAttack]

if what you are insinuating is correct then why bother announcing that lebron is going to be listed as a 4. if nothing at all is going to change as you say, whats the point of making a deal about it?

...because it represents the Cavaliers going in a different direction than in years past (relying on the size and slow-footed Z/Wallace/Varejao/Smith) in favor of a smaller, more versatile lineup that resembles Orlando more than conventional teams like Boston.

It isn't the fact that LeBron may be playing at the 4 that is the most note-worthy thing... It is that he will likely be paired with Shaq and a more athletic 3 to go along with the backcourt (however that shakes out). It would be a different philosophy, both offensively and defensively.

I'm not saying I'm for it, but I have no doubt that LeBron can work with Shaq down low and more athletic scorers at the 1, 2, and 3 spots.

That is why it is news (and rightfully so). If you saw how lumbering the Cavs looked during the Orlando series, it is a huge change in philosophy... And a possible over-reaction to those mismatches that were exploited.

[sobeking]

The only reason I believe they are studying that possibility... Is again, to beat the Orlando Magic...

Why everything I see the Cavs doing sounds like a move to better prepare the team to beat the Magic?

I though Shaq trade was motivated to beat Dwight Howard. And now, moving LeBron to PF sounds to me a way to stop Rashard Lewis shooting.

IF the Cavs are trying to prepare the team to beat the Magic, I think they are taking the wrong way... I guess they did the same thing before, but for the Celtics after they beat the Cavs.

Cavaliers should try to play under their strengths and strengths of their coaching staff instead of messing around and risking making things worst instead of improving it... And a lot of franchise done that sort of mistakes before.

[Meticode]

How about this starting 5?

C- Shaquille O'Neal
F- LeBron James
F- Charlie Villanueva
G- Danny Green
G- Mo Williams

By the way Larry Bird played the PF Position earlier in his NBA Career, and he averaged a double double.

Danny Green isn't going to be starting. And if they sign Villanueva there's no way they're moving LeBron to power forward.

[RedBlackAttack]

Cavaliers should try to play under their strengths and strengths of their coaching staff instead of messing around and risking making things worst instead of improving it... And a lot of franchise done that sort of mistakes before.
The fact of the matter is, changes were going to have to come in the frontcourt whether the Orlando debacle happened or not. Big Z is no longer a starting center on a contender in this league and that was becoming obvious before DHo completely embarrassed him in the ECF.

I love Z... he is a great guy and he is the only player on the roster that bridges the struggles before the 'LeBron lottery' and what has happened since. He deserves respect for that alone. But, he also happens to be a great character guy that will accept any role in an attempt to do what is best for the team. He is a consummate professional and, on top of all of that, he married a Cleveland girl and his core group of friends are all random Cleveland people that he has met over the years.

Z is a beloved figure in Cleveland and I hope to never see him in another uniform. It would be a great disservice to him and the fans that he has made if he doesn't retire in wine-and-gold.

That said, he is a backup center right now... Nothing more.

Varejao has never been the caliber a player to start at the 4 on a championship contender. He is an energy guy that should get 15-20 minutes or so per night.

It was clear that moves had to be made and, long before the Orlando series, during the trade deadline, the Cavs made a push for a bevy of frontcourt players (including Shaq) because they recognized these problems.

I'm not saying that we should change the entire team philosophy of going with a half-court, slow-it-down style with a big, slow frontcourt, but something had to be done to address the Big Z/Varejao/Wallace/Smith situation. Those guys could not go another season as the rotation in the frontcourt.

The Shaq move was made for a hell of a lot more reasons than Howard. He was part of the equation, but a relatively small part.

The keys were that Shaq is still a top tier center in the NBA -- the likes of which the Cavs have not had during these LeBron years -- and the fact that his $20 million contract expires next season, freeing up the Cavs to do even more work on a team that is aging in a lot of spots.

The Shaq move, to me, cannot fail. The worst-case scenario... Shaq gets hurt in the preseason and never plays for the Cavs -- would still not be a total loss because of the moves that his contract will allow us to do in 2010. I don't see how anyone could view that as a bad move, especially with how well Shaq played last year, particularly in the second half of the year when he could have packed it in since he was playing for a team that had no chance of making a run.

Now that we have Shaq, another move has to be made, because you simply cannot pair Shaq in the frontcourt with Varejao. That would be a horrible pairing and, as I said, Varejao isn't good enough to be a starting 4 on a contender in the NBA, anyway... Let alone standing under the rim next to Shaq.

Villanueva is the move that makes the most sense to me, from a floor spacing stand-point. Shaq will take care of the low post work (something the Cavs haven't had in the LeBron years), but he needs to be paired with a 4 that can step out and hit the medium range jumper consistently to have proper floor spacing and open up driving lanes for LeBron. I don't see a better option out there, although so many on this board seem to have such negative feelings toward CV.

I've seen the Bucks quite a bit over the years and I have always been impressed with the guy. Also, he isn't going to have to be a primary scorer like he was when Milwaukee lost Redd to injury and Mo to the Cavs. All he has to do is fill his role, knock down his open jumpers, and maybe occasionally create (which he is entirely capable of). He is also athletic enough to help with more athletic 4's that gave the Cavs fits against Orlando. Yes... His defense has never been good, but he is young and Mike Brown has a track record of making suspect defenders into serviceable (or better) on that end of the floor (Mo, LeBron... he even had Drew Gooden playing pretty good defense in-between his brain farts).

If the decision is to sign an athletic 3 and move LeBron to the 4, I have to have faith that it will work.



The point is, though, that moves had to be made this offseason. Varejao and Z were not capable of being the cornerstones in the frontcourt. I'm surprised that most people seem... surprised at these moves. They almost had to happen for the Cavs to continue as a contender.

[RedBlackAttack]

Danny Green isn't going to be starting. And if they sign Villanueva there's no way they're moving LeBron to power forward.
Correct and correct.

Although, I do like what I've seen out of Green. He certainly won't be a starter or even a player that will get heavy minutes off of the bench next year (imo), but he is a long 2/3 that has good all-around skill. I could see him being a solid role player in the NBA in a few years and maybe used in certain situations in the next couple of years when we play teams that require bigger defenders in the backcourt.

[Meticode]

The fact of the matter is, changes were going to have to come in the frontcourt whether the Orlando debacle happened or not. Big Z is no longer a starting center on a contender in this league and that was becoming obvious before DHo completely embarrassed him in the ECF.

I love Z... he is a great guy and he is the only player on the roster that bridges the struggles before the 'LeBron lottery' and what has happened since. He deserves respect for that alone. But, he also happens to be a great character guy that will accept any role in an attempt to do what is best for the team. He is a consummate professional and, on top of all of that, he married a Cleveland girl and his core group of friends are all random Cleveland people that he has met over the years.

Z is a beloved figure in Cleveland and I hope to never see him in another uniform. It would be a great disservice to him and the fans that he has made if he doesn't retire in wine-and-gold.

That said, he is a backup center right now... Nothing more.

Agreed. The man has basically been getting enough minutes to come off the bench anyway the last what...two or three years? If you didn't see how many games he started and just saw his minutes per game you'd think he was a bench player.


Varejao has never been the caliber a player to start at the 4 on a championship contender. He is an energy guy that should get 15-20 minutes or so per night.

It's ashame he's opting out for more money though. As much as a lot of people hate him he's really a valuable player bringing intangibles off the bench. And the fact he gets under everyone's skin is invaluable.


It was clear that moves had to be made and, long before the Orlando series, during the trade deadline, the Cavs made a push for a bevy of frontcourt players (including Shaq) because they recognized these problems.

I'm not saying that we should change the entire team philosophy of going with a half-court, slow-it-down style with a big, slow frontcourt, but something had to be done to address the Big Z/Varejao/Wallace/Smith situation. Those guys could not go another season as the rotation in the front court.

The Shaq move was made for a hell of a lot more reasons than Howard. He was part of the equation, but a relatively small part.


Even with this move we still need another front court player to me. Losing Varejao further shows this if he's asking too much money

The keys were that Shaq is still a top tier center in the NBA -- the likes of which the Cavs have not had during these LeBron years -- and the fact that his $20 million contract expires next season, freeing up the Cavs to do even more work on a team that is aging in a lot of spots.


The Shaq move, to me, cannot fail. The worst-case scenario... Shaq gets hurt in the preseason and never plays for the Cavs -- would still not be a total loss because of the moves that his contract will allow us to do in 2010. I don't see how anyone could view that as a bad move, especially with how well Shaq played last year, especially in the second half of the year.

This is one reason why I loved the trade. One, you're giving up basically nothing for a true-big man that's a true inside presence. If he doesn't work out, then in 2010 you have $21 million off the books still.


Villanueva is the move that makes the most sense to me, from a floor spacing stand-point. Shaq will take care of the low post work (something the Cavs haven't had in the LeBron years), but he needs to be paired with a 4 that can step out and hit the medium range jumper consistently to have proper floor spacing and open up driving lanes for LeBron. I don't see a better option out there, although so many on this board seem to have such negative feelings toward CV.

Before the Shaq trade I wasn't too keen on getting him, now after it, it's looking more and more obvious he would be a great fit from an offensive standpoint.


If the decision is to sign an athletic 3 and move LeBron to the 4, I have to have faith that it will work.

I've been hoping we can get Matt Barnes for this. 6-7, 230LBS. Guy is athletic, great energy guy, can knock down open jumpers, run the floor well, and be pesky on defense while being able to guard the 2 and 3 spots on the floor.

[NotYetGreat]

He's actually strong enough to do it, but I think it would wear him down at some point in the season. Not saying he'll get injured, but I have a feeling that if they push through with this, they'll put him back to his natural position halfway into the season.

[Meticode]

Correct and correct.

Although, I do like what I've seen out of Green. He certainly won't be a starter or even a player that will get heavy minutes off of the bench next year (imo), but he is a long 2/3 that has good all-around skill. I could see him being a solid role player in the NBA in a few years and maybe used in certain situations in the next couple of years when we play teams that require bigger defenders in the backcourt.

Yes, don't get me wrong. I can see Green getting minutes. Especially if he wins over the coaches in whatever time he gets during the pre-season, but there's no way in hell you're starting a second round draft pick to make a championship run like that early in the season.

[blacknapalm]

He said he's like 260.

And for those Dwight-LeBron pics, in the first pic Dwight is clearly standing behind LeBron. Why not look at the team USA group pic where they are standing from tallest to shortest? Clearly Dwight is taller.

http://www.onemanfastbreak.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/usa_basketball_team.jpg

Even if LeBron plays the PF I don't see him playing offense that much more differently than he does now.

PF would indicate more post play. in that picture though, bosh doesn't look too much shorter than dwight and i tried to go by foreheads. jason kidd almost looks as tall as d-wade there.

[RedBlackAttack]

I've been hoping we can get Matt Barnes for this. 6-7, 230LBS. Guy is athletic, great energy guy, can knock down open jumpers, run the floor well, and be pesky on defense while being able to guard the 2 and 3 spots on the floor.
We pretty much agree on everything, including this. I've always been a fan of Barnes and he really could be an important piece if the CV thing doesn't work. I've seen scenarios in which we get both CV and Barnes, but I don't see it happening. I don't think we can afford both.

Either we get CV to play alongside Shaq in the frontcourt or it will be Shaq and LeBron at the 5 and 4 and Barnes at the 3.

If we were somehow able to swing both CV and Barnes, I would be absolutely elated.

I agree with you about Varejao. His hustle and energy are important to have coming off of the bench and his ability to frustrate opponents is something that every team in the NBA wants in a role player. However, it has become increasingly obvious through his actions in the past three offseasons that Varejao has a much higher opinion of his worth than what is the reality.

If he can't accept the fact that he is an energy guy off of the bench and should be paid accordingly, I would tell him not to let the door hit him on the @ss on the way out. That isn't to say that we won't miss him, but the last thing that the organization wants to do is overpay for a guy that has such limited skills.

[Mikaiel]

Mike Brown has a track record of making suspect defenders into serviceable (or better) on that end of the floor (Mo, LeBron... he even had Drew Gooden playing pretty good defense in-between his brain farts).


Well, CV played for a defensive coach last year, Scott Skiles, and his defense was still suspect. So he can't use the "We didn't put much emphasis on defense" excuse like Mo.

[Meticode]

Well, CV played for a defensive coach last year, Scott Skiles, and his defense was still suspect. So he can't use the "We didn't put much emphasis on defense" excuse like Mo.

Even then, overall for a team Milwaukee wasn't that great defensively. A player's own effort on defense is greater when you have team mates that actually play good help defense.

[RedBlackAttack]

Well, CV played for a defensive coach last year, Scott Skiles, and his defense was still suspect. So he can't use the "We didn't put much emphasis on defense" excuse like Mo.
But, at the same time, did anyone on the Bucks' team take defense seriously? It sure as hell didn't look like it the times that I watched them play.

It is a little different when you not only have a coach that is 100-percent committed to defense, but a team and, possibly most importantly, a superstar that expects nothing less than your best effort defensively.

I'm not saying that CV would become a top tier defender via osmosis, but I do think that he is athletic enough to be a serviceable defender and the Cavs, unlike the Bucks (even under Skiles), demand that from everyone.

[Meticode]

But, at the same time, did anyone on the Bucks' team take defense seriously? It sure as hell didn't look like it the times that I watched them play.

It is a little different when you not only have a coach that is 100-percent committed to defense, but a team and, possibly most importantly, a superstar that expects nothing less than your best effort defensively.

I'm not saying that CV would become a top tier defender via osmosis, but I do think that he is athletic enough to be a serviceable defender and the Cavs, unlike the Bucks (even under Skiles), demand that from everyone.

Well, in any case let's hope his tweets on Twitter are true and he wants to play for Cleveland. :D

[Mikaiel]

But, at the same time, did anyone on the Bucks' team take defense seriously?

I don't know. All I know is that Skiles' teams always play good defense. His Bulls were always one of the top rated defensive teams, even before they got Ben Wallace. And this year, the Bucks went from worst defense in the league to 15th best. So I guess their coach takes defense seriously. But yeah, like you said, on this Cavs team, everyone is committed to defense, so it's probably not the same scenario.

We'll see what happens. I heard CV was the plan B. But unfortunately I don't know what plan A is, or how reliable that info is. Windhorst or Wine&Gold never talked about that.

[Meticode]

We'll see what happens. I heard CV was the plan B. But unfortunately I don't know what plan A is, or how reliable that info is. Windhorst or Wine&Gold never talked about that.

Makes me wonder what plan A is too...

[Cavs2007Champs]

RedBlackAttack,

Your post was spot on.

People fail to see that your position on the starting roster does not limit you to only guarding that player of the same position on the other team. LeBron guarded other positions B4. It happens. Shawn Marion guarded players everywhere from 1-4.

For LeBron and the PF situation... it would only be for certain stretches of games and he would not be disadvantaged by the majority of PF's in the league. At the SF position LeBron just dominates anyone, and matches well on the Defensive end with basically every other SF in the league. At the PF position LeBron would have the advantage versus nearly every PF on the offensive end, but on the defensive end he could be exploited by a limited number of players.

Cleveland could have the luxury of playing matchups also, by playing LeBron at the 4 for portions of certain games. Cleveland could have that luxury of TRUE versatility.

There are a lot of pending things with Cleveland and a lot hinges on their PF position. What Cleveland could do is resign Varejao and then sign a solid tall wing, and for stretches they could have LeBron be the PF who can stretch the offense, while having a Matt Barnes play SF, which could keep players 1-4 on the perimeter for Shaq, and LeBron can still drive.

David West, Dirk, Bosh, Rashard, KG, Pau, Lamarcus Aldridge, Amar'e, Rasheed, and a number more of PF's don't always play back to the basket, there really aren't to many true back to the basket big men anymore. LeBron is quicker than most, and he could be strong enough for all of them also. So for stretches, YES, LeBron could man the PF position. It would hinge on them having a solid back up Wing player.

Cleveland would have done this last year if Wally wasn't the player he was on defense. It would have been a horrible mismatch for Wally vs. any other SF, but Wally could at least lean his body into a posted up PF, or a PF who wasn't as quick as that teams SF.

Cleveland could resign Varejao and then sign a tall wing player, so they could have versatility, and then have Varejao be Center during Small Ball and then play PF when they need him to pester the another player.

LeBron could handle the 4 for stretches, and he DOES NOT have to be in the post on the offensive end.

I'd like for someone to name me a team who has their 4 and 5 primarily posted up on both blocks, and always down low on the offensive end? One team I can think of now Memphis, and we haven't seen it yet, but Memphis with Gasol and Thabeet since neither is considered a jump shooting big will have that problem with 2 big men crowding the paint, so we'll see how that turns out.

[Reikon]

Like Meticode also said, I really want Matt Barnes, He's tall enough for the SF spot, and quick/a good enough shooter for the SG spot. He can also hit the spot-up 3's LeBron always gives. He's also a great rebounder and passer, and huge hustler. I hope the management sees this and makes in an offer. He's still underrated.

[Cavs2007Champs]

We'll see what happens. I heard CV was the plan B. But unfortunately I don't know what plan A is, or how reliable that info is. Windhorst or Wine&Gold never talked about that.

I think Plan A is to resign Varejao and then to sign the tall Wing Player, I'll use Matt Barnes as that's the player I think would work well for this hypothetical lineup.

I just don't believe the Cavs want to leak that part of the information for leverage purposes with AV. I agree that AV brings a lot of intangibles to the Cavs, but he isn't a player you want to pay a lot of money because he's not a starter, well not with the Centers that we have.

I think the Cavs want to resign AV and then grab the big Wing player (Barnes) so they could then run different lineups, thus having more versatility than they did last year....

When Shaq is in they would have LeBron play the 4 spot, and Barnes at the 3, which helps stretch the floor with Shaq, which everyone says is necessary. LeBron still plays on the wing, but with Shaq it keeps the opposing big man honest. LeBron could then get by the other PF with his speed, while leaving Mo, Delonte, and Barnes open for the outside jumper.

When Z is in the game, the Cavs could run with AV at the 4, LeBron at the 3, and Barnes at the 2, and Delonte or Mo at the 1, which having Delonte at the 1, would give them a good defensive unit at positions 1-4.

The Cavs last year, tried to play with different lineups thus creating versatility, but it was not that successful, I believe with resigning AV and signing a bigger Wing player, the Cavs would have tremendous versatility... LeBron could play Rashard, or whoever the Magic sign as their PF (assuming they don't bring back Hedo), and if the Magic resign Hedo, then LeBron and Barnes could stick Hedo and Rashard better than what Cleveland did this past year.

Against Boston, AV could pester KG, and LeBron could guard KG at times, while Barnes could handle Pierce during those stretches.

Also having Barnes, LeBron, Delonte and Mo, you have players that can handle the ball and create. Delonte and Mo will be better, with the added continuity and chemistry, and hopefully some added confidence.

What exactly Cleveland would do in a Charlie V. signing I'm not sure, because they would still need to sign a Wing player. They can't split the MLE for Charlie V. and a solid wing player. Maybe Grant Hill could be had for the BAE or Vet Min? Not sure if he'd be up for such a low salary.

I'm actually very keen to resigning AV to a reasonable contract, then adding Barnes with some of the MLE, and Cleveland now has some true versatility.

[1~Gibson~1]

i dont think they mean he'll start so Pau he wont have to worry about pau. i think they're talking him playing pf in a small lineup like against orlando

[KubiliusF]

Linas Kleiza would be great fit for Cavaliers

[kumquat]

Dwight actually scored on Lebron quite easily when they were matched 1 on 1 on the post. Not gonna work.

[Melissa]

this is a stupid idea. he's going to lose his explosiveness as a result of constantly being banged up in the post.

[Mikaiel]

Dwight actually scored on Lebron quite easily when they were matched 1 on 1 on the post. Not gonna work.

I didn't know Dwight was a PF.


this is a stupid idea. he's going to lose his explosiveness as a result of constantly being banged up in the post.

Nice avatar :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:

[Meticode]

I didn't know Dwight was a PF.

Technically when he was drafted he was a power forward. :D

[ShaqAttack3234]

This will be interesting. Lebron is as big as a lot of power forwards at 6'8" and 260 and he could take them outside and cause matchup problems.

I also found it funny that people mentioned Lebron having to guard Tim Duncan. Are you people actually dumb enough that you think Duncan plays power forward alongside Matt Bonner? :oldlol: The sooner everyone gets it through their head that Duncan is a center, the better.

[kkling]

If Lebron develops a post game, I'm all for this.

[trig]

dunno about this one. definitely has the size and strength to play PF in todays game. But dunno if he has any experience playing any 4. Can he guard the post? Can he post up?

Oh well, it worked with Orlando having a softer rashard at the 4, I guess it can work to with cleveland if they can find their "Hedo"

[Mikaiel]

But dunno if he has any experience playing any 4

Yeah he does have some experience. He played a few minutes at the 4 spot last year. And he was a 4 when he played for Team USA.

[1~Gibson~1]

LeBron has plenty of experience playing the 4. Hell, he played the 5 pretty well against NO last season, and he played the 4 alot in the orlando series.

You guys, it's not like he's going to be our starting power forward, they're just saying in case we wanna run a small lineup, who are we gonna have at the 3?

[Meticode]

LeBron has plenty of experience playing the 4. Hell, he played the 5 pretty well against NO last season, and he played the 4 alot in the orlando series.

You guys, it's not like he's going to be our starting power forward, they're just saying in case we wanna run a small lineup, who are we gonna have at the 3?

I imagine whoever we sign if we get him, namely Matt Barnes. Just speculation though.

[HaNdLe ThE RoCk]

Gasol would take him straight to the post.

[Meticode]

Gasol would take him straight to the post.

That's like saying Shaq would be taking Gasol straight to the post. Obviously they would have Bynum on Shaq. LeBron would not be on Gasol.

I think they're just saying they'll move LeBron to the 4 month if he presents a matchup problem for the other team.

[Pharcyde]

Bad idea, LB is not skilled enough in the post and will be undersize. He needs to stay on the periameter and drive the ball.


Because if you're a 4 you HAVE to play in the post on offense.

[Meticode]

Because if you're a 4 you HAVE to play in the post on offense.

Obviously no you don't have to play in the post. If you're PF is playing on the perimeter while you're C and say SF are near the post, it hurts your offensive rebounding since you lose size usually instead of have two big-men in the paint or at least near it.

One of the things that the Cavs did well at least last year was offensive rebounding. Big Z and Varejao pesking for those rebounds were annoying for other teams.

[vert48]

Last year playing SF, LeBron would setup at the 3 point line, pound the ball for most of the clock, and then run toward the basket, hoping for a bailout call.
I am really looking forward to watching him, as a PF, setup at the 3 point line, pound the ball for most of the clock, and then run toward the basket, hoping for a bailout call. It should be completely different.

[HaNdLe ThE RoCk]

That's like saying Shaq would be taking Gasol straight to the post. Obviously they would have Bynum on Shaq. LeBron would not be on Gasol.

I think they're just saying they'll move LeBron to the 4 month if he presents a matchup problem for the other team.

So Bron would guard Bynum?

[Pharcyde]

Obviously no you don't have to play in the post. If you're PF is playing on the perimeter while you're C and say SF are near the post, it hurts your offensive rebounding since you lose size usually instead of have two big-men in the paint or at least near it.

One of the things that the Cavs did well at least last year was offensive rebounding. Big Z and Varejao pesking for those rebounds were annoying for other teams.


I was being sarcastic...

[1~Gibson~1]

So Bron would guard Bynum?The Cavs wouldnt even have lebron at the 4 if bynum AND pau were both in the game. maybe if odom was in they'd put lebron at the 4, but not when la has both of their bigs in. people use common sense.

[sergiorodriguez]

Do the doubters remember that last year, even though he has bad footwork and no post moves, every time he posted up on the low blocks he scored easily or got his teammate a wideopen shot? Why is their so much doubt about this lol

[Juges8932]

LeBron is not 6'9. He's 6'8 in shoes.

[wang4three]

Mike Brown isn't creative enough to make it work. You really need a guy like D'Antoni, Nelson, SVG, or Adelman.

[Mikaiel]

Mike Brown isn't creative enough to make it work. You really need a guy like D'Antoni, Nelson, SVG, or Adelman.

How many championships do these guys have ?

Mike Brown >>> D'Antoni
Mike Brown >>> Nelson

[sergiorodriguez]

How many championships do these guys have ?

Mike Brown >>> D'Antoni
Mike Brown >>> Nelson
Winning championships as an assistant doesnt count:hammerhead: :hammerhead: :hammerhead:

[MaxFly]

That's a very bad Angle. Check the Pictures above.

:cheers:

You mean this one?

http://www.onemanfastbreak.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/usa_basketball_team.jpg

[ZHAKIDD532]

They're looking at Rashard Lewis in Orlando and thinking they can duplicate that in some way I think.

[Mikaiel]

Winning championships as an assistant doesnt count:hammerhead: :hammerhead: :hammerhead:

I didn't even realize when I typed that that Brown had a ring :hammerhead:

What I meant is that those guys never won anything, so why say we need one of those guys to make it work ? I'm sure Mike Brown can fail just as miserably as they did.

[wang4three]

How many championships do these guys have ?

Mike Brown >>> D'Antoni
Mike Brown >>> Nelson

He may be, but his coaching style is too structured to have a talented all around 4. He's too conventional; that's my point. Besides, Nelson has 5 championships.

[Kingwillball]

http://www.realgm.com/images/nba/4.2/profiles/photos/2006/James_LeBron_cle.jpg



If your gonna do that at least get a Legit Wing like Artest or Marion.but Marion on Cavs could play the 4 position. Cavs would be better off getting a real PF as that is there missing piece to a championship.

[niko]

How many championships do these guys have ?

Mike Brown >>> D'Antoni
Mike Brown >>> Nelson

Why is he a better coach than either of those guys? Because what? He has Lebron? Both of those guys could take teams with less talent and make something of them. If you take Lebron off the Cavs, what are they?

WOW, we are really reaching with Brown. I mean style wise if you want to kill D'Antoni fine, but Nelson? We are calling Nelson a bad coach? Do you mean like last year or career wise?

What has Brown done that doesn't involve the word LEBRON in it?

[1~Gibson~1]

Why is he a better coach than either of those guys? Because what? He has Lebron? Both of those guys could take teams with less talent and make something of them. If you take Lebron off the Cavs, what are they?

WOW, we are really reaching with Brown. I mean style wise if you want to kill D'Antoni fine, but Nelson? We are calling Nelson a bad coach? Do you mean like last year or career wise?

What has Brown done that doesn't involve the word LEBRON in it?We lost by one point to a playoff team without LeBron. Not only without him, but we didnt have Mo, Joe Smith, Z, or Ben, and Varejao only played 10 minutes.

That means that we nearly beat a playoff team without our starting SF, PG, PF, C, backup C, and backup PF.

Now im not going to base his entire career on one game, but that's good coaching if you ask me. We basically played with our out-of-rotation guys and the guys that got little PT.

You have to give him SOME credibility as a good coach.

[bleedinpurpleTwo]

offensively, imo, it doesn't matter which position he plays...he will be a mismatch.

however, defensively, I just don't see him defending KG...or Gasol...etc etc.
he would get posted low every time.

the guy is an all-world SF... leave him there.

[1~Gibson~1]

offensively, imo, it doesn't matter which position he plays...he will be a mismatch.

however, defensively, I just don't see him defending KG...or Gasol...etc etc.
he would get posted low every time.

the guy is an all-world SF... leave him there.the article is about lebron playing the 4 in a small lineup. Like when the Celtics had Pierce, Posey, Ray, Eddie, and KG when they made that huge comeback in the finals last year.

[bleedinpurpleTwo]

the article is about lebron playing the 4 in a small lineup. Like when the Celtics had Pierce, Posey, Ray, Eddie, and KG when they made that huge comeback in the finals last year.

oh. thanks.
doesn't he do that already? from time to time?

[Kingwillball]

offensively, imo, it doesn't matter which position he plays...he will be a mismatch.

however, defensively, I just don't see him defending KG...or Gasol...etc etc.
he would get posted low every time.

the guy is an all-world SF... leave him there.


For a rare instance I have to agree with a Laker fan..lol

[1~Gibson~1]

oh. thanks.
doesn't he do that already? from time to time?yea but Wally and Sasha are both gone and they were the ones that usually played the 3 when he moved to the 4 so we're looking for someone else to replace them.

[IamSofaKing]

Well if someone like Lewis can play PF than so can LeBron, he could be like Karl Malone but he just needs to work on his Post D

[T-bomb 25]

RedBlackAttack,

Your post was spot on.

People fail to see that your position on the starting roster does not limit you to only guarding that player of the same position on the other team. LeBron guarded other positions B4. It happens. Shawn Marion guarded players everywhere from 1-4.

For LeBron and the PF situation... it would only be for certain stretches of games and he would not be disadvantaged by the majority of PF's in the league. At the SF position LeBron just dominates anyone, and matches well on the Defensive end with basically every other SF in the league. At the PF position LeBron would have the advantage versus nearly every PF on the offensive end, but on the defensive end he could be exploited by a limited number of players.

Cleveland could have the luxury of playing matchups also, by playing LeBron at the 4 for portions of certain games. Cleveland could have that luxury of TRUE versatility.

There are a lot of pending things with Cleveland and a lot hinges on their PF position. What Cleveland could do is resign Varejao and then sign a solid tall wing, and for stretches they could have LeBron be the PF who can stretch the offense, while having a Matt Barnes play SF, which could keep players 1-4 on the perimeter for Shaq, and LeBron can still drive.

David West, Dirk, Bosh, Rashard, KG, Pau, Lamarcus Aldridge, Amar'e, Rasheed, and a number more of PF's don't always play back to the basket, there really aren't to many true back to the basket big men anymore. LeBron is quicker than most, and he could be strong enough for all of them also. So for stretches, YES, LeBron could man the PF position. It would hinge on them having a solid back up Wing player.

Cleveland would have done this last year if Wally wasn't the player he was on defense. It would have been a horrible mismatch for Wally vs. any other SF, but Wally could at least lean his body into a posted up PF, or a PF who wasn't as quick as that teams SF.

Cleveland could resign Varejao and then sign a tall wing player, so they could have versatility, and then have Varejao be Center during Small Ball and then play PF when they need him to pester the another player.

LeBron could handle the 4 for stretches, and he DOES NOT have to be in the post on the offensive end.

I'd like for someone to name me a team who has their 4 and 5 primarily posted up on both blocks, and always down low on the offensive end? One team I can think of now Memphis, and we haven't seen it yet, but Memphis with Gasol and Thabeet since neither is considered a jump shooting big will have that problem with 2 big men crowding the paint, so we'll see how that turns out.Not really true he does not dominate SF's that post up he has trouble guarding them,like Melo he fries him everytime they match up.

[Mikaiel]

Both of those guys could take teams with less talent and make something of them.

Really ?

D'Antoni couldn't get to the Finals with Nash, Amar'e, Joe Johnson, Shawn Marion, Barbosa and Shaq.

Nelson couldn't do it either with Dirk, Finley, Nash, Van Exel, Antoine Walker, Antawn Jamison. Even worse, he got fired, Avery Johnson took over and they won the West right after that.

Nelson and D'Antoni had way better talent than what Mike Brown had to work with, and they've got nothing to show for it. Their style of play is horrible, that style will never get you anywhere. But still, they keep teaching the same horrible stuff.

Mike Brown's teams play championship ball.


What has Brown done that doesn't involve the word LEBRON in it?

His team took Boston to 7 games even though LeBron was struggling all series. Because of our defense on Ray Allen and Paul Pierce.

[T-bomb 25]

They're looking at Rashard Lewis in Orlando and thinking they can duplicate that in some way I think.Yeah but Lewis is 6'10 and 1 of the very best 3pt shooters in the league and his post game is beter than Lebrons.

[T-bomb 25]

Well if someone like Lewis can play PF than so can LeBron, he could be like Karl Malone but he just needs to work on his Post DSo he can be like the Mailman 1 of the top 5 PF of all time? You must be smoking your nuts.

[boozehound]

oh. thanks.
doesn't he do that already? from time to time?
yeah, this article is a typical offseason article. author attempts to make something bigger than it is. Sure, bron will play the 4, probably more than last year (depending on their bigman rotation - which has a sophomore and 2 old centers currently), but he isnt lining up at the 4 for the tip off or anything like that.

[T-bomb 25]

the article is about lebron playing the 4 in a small lineup. Like when the Celtics had Pierce, Posey, Ray, Eddie, and KG when they made that huge comeback in the finals last year.But Pierce actually has a post game.

[LA_Showtime]

Hybrid PF... He'd struggle against Gasol/KG, but considering the alternatives you have to look at it as a good move. Then again, the Lakers and Celtics are the two teams the Cavaliers will have to beat in order to win a championship lol

[lilgodfather1]

Hybrid PF... He'd struggle against Gasol/KG, but considering the alternatives you have to look at it as a good move. Then again, the Lakers and Celtics are the two teams the Cavaliers will have to beat in order to win a championship lol
I believe you mean the Spurs or Celtics. Lakers will be worse off next year with the loss of Odom and Ariza.

[D-Rose]

I believe you mean the Spurs or Celtics. Lakers will be worse off next year with the loss of Odom and Ariza.
:roll: :roll:

We aren't losing both kid.

Lakers still have Gasol and a healthy Bynum to combat any frontocurt...not to mention the best player(IMO) in Kobe Bryant.

[LA_Showtime]

I believe you mean the Spurs or Celtics. Lakers will be worse off next year with the loss of Odom and Ariza.

They'll match up fine with the Spurs.

[inclinerator]

You mean this one?

http://www.onemanfastbreak.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/usa_basketball_team.jpg
lebron is clearly slouching while howard is standing tall and neck stretched

[lilgodfather1]

:roll: :roll:

We aren't losing both kid.

Lakers still have Gasol and a healthy Bynum to combat any frontocurt...not to mention the best player(IMO) in Kobe Bryant.
How do you know you are not losing both? Seriously have either signed yet?

[1~Gibson~1]

But Pierce actually has a post game.So.....you dont HAVE to play in the post to be a PF. And when LeBron posts up he actually does pretty good.

[LA_Showtime]

How do you know you are not losing both? Seriously have either signed yet?

They've had like 14 hours to make a deal... and considering both of them are unrestricted free agents the chances of them signing right away are low.

[D-Rose]

How do you know you are not losing both? Seriously have either signed yet?
Use common sense kiddo.

There isn't a huge market out there this summer.

Suppose someone takes Ariza for 9 mill. Lakers can pay Odom 1 or 2 mill more then to keep him and offer him the most, fill in the SF spot with the MLE.

[niko]

IF they get a good SF he can play some PF, then shift to SF when Varejo is on the floor. The problem they had was they slotted Lebron at SF and acted like he couldn't be moved around to take advantages of matchups. He doesn't necessarily need to be one position all the time.

And regardless, Lebron should work on his post game because he is a super beast, and could post up almost anyone.

[KKittles30]

If he becomes a PF, Prince James new nickname will be LeBron "Foul Trouble" James. because regardless what everyone says I HIGHLY doubt LeBron is 27o like he claims maybe 250-255 but, no way he is like 270-275 like he says he is especially watching the BET awards this weekend no way...

[Mikaiel]

I HIGHLY doubt LeBron is 27o like he claims maybe 250-255 but, no way he is like 270-275 like he says he is especially watching the BET awards this weekend no way...

Rookie LeBron, 240 :

http://www.quizilla.com/user_images/N/nelly25/1059119795_mes_030626.jpg

Now :

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1155/3168564762_dc6c9efda2_o.jpg

[bdreason]

Puting LeBron at PF is a panic move.

LeBron has no back to the basket offense and can't handle big post threats.

If I saw LeBron gaurding my PF the first thing I would do is run a low post screen and switch, then let my biggest player go to work.

Also, if Power Forwards are gaurding LeBron, they are going to sag way off him (because they have to). With Shaq already occupying the post, you're going to consistantly have a packed defense, turning LeBron into a jumpshooter.

Cavs are going in the wrong direction with this move. If anythign they should be looking to find a PF who can shoot the midrange J, so the paint isn't packed with players constantly.

[LA_Showtime]

Rookie LeBron, 240 :

http://www.quizilla.com/user_images/N/nelly25/1059119795_mes_030626.jpg

Now :

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1155/3168564762_dc6c9efda2_o.jpg

I've seen pictures of before and after, but these two pictures are amazing. This guy is a ****ing beast.

[Kblaze8855]

Yea I buy him being every bit of 270. I remember clearly in the 04 olympics they said he was 252 and he is a lot bigger now. 20 pounds with 5 years of weight training isnt hard to believe. He came into the league like 12 pounds off Hakeems prime weight. Id buy 6'9''270 from him right now. Hes about the same size as Zo was in Miami as disturbing as it is to think about.

[RedBlackAttack]

Also, if Power Forwards are gaurding LeBron, they are going to sag way off him (because they have to). With Shaq already occupying the post, you're going to consistantly have a packed defense, turning LeBron into a jumpshooter.

First, a PF would have to sag all the way into the paint to have any chance of staying in front of LeBron. Regardless of where he is listed, a big PF cannot and will not guard him. This isn't NBA Live... You don't have to be matched against whomever is across from you on the official roster.

It would be suicide for a big PF to try and defend LeBron. You are vastly underestimating his jumpshot. He certainly isn't automatic with it at this point in his career, but if you sag off of him and let him step into his rhythm, he will hit medium-range or even long-range jumpers with great regularity.

You didn't see Pietrus playing off of LeBron... Maybe you could do that three years ago, but LeBron's jumper is much better now than it was then. If you don't crowd him or at least get a hand in his face, you are asking for trouble.

LeBron is a matchup nightmare regardless of where he is listed or who is guarding him. This should be obvious by now.


Cavs are going in the wrong direction with this move. If anythign they should be looking to find a PF who can shoot the midrange J, so the paint isn't packed with players constantly.

You need to read through the thread. These points have been addressed.

[1~Gibson~1]

Guys, just because the friggin article says that he's going to be playing PF doesnt mean that he'll be the starting Power Forward next year, nor does it mean he has to bang in the post.

Basically, we just lost Sasha via the Shaq trade, we lost Wally to free agency, and now we're looking to sign someone to play the 3 when we run our small lineup which was actually effective last year.

[RedBlackAttack]

Yea I buy him being every bit of 270. I remember clearly in the 04 olympics they said he was 252 and he is a lot bigger now. 20 pounds with 5 years of weight training isnt hard to believe. He came into the league like 12 pounds off Hakeems prime weight. Id buy 6'9''270 from him right now. Hes about the same size as Zo was in Miami as disturbing as it is to think about.
I don't really understand anyone that argues against LeBron being every bit as big as 6-foot-9, 270. First, he has publicly said that he is 6-foot-9. I'm not sure why he would lie about that and he definitely looks every bit that tall when standing next to the likes of Dwight Howard.

Second, as you noted, he weighed over 250 pounds in the Olympics coming off of his rookie season. There is a massive difference between the LeBron of 2003-04 and the LeBron of 2008-09... If it is this obvious just by sight, you can pretty much guarantee that the scale reflects it, as well.

I'm not sure why he keeps his weight such a secret.

[Lebron23]

Following in the footsteps of Tim Duncan, Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, and Kevin Garnett.

:applause: :applause: :applause:

[NotYetGreat]

LeBron James

Height: 6'9"
Weight: 270 lbs
Wing Span: 7'1"


Wait, that better be with shoes and a stomach full of steaks. Isn't he 6'8 and 250? Had to check for that. Anyway, I think they should keep him at the 3. Bigger PFs might wear him down midway through the season.

[bladefd]

Why don't the Cavs try to get Rasheed with their MLE? I personally think Rasheed would help the Cavs more than Celtics because of his range. With the Celtics, KG likes to take mid-range shots so if Rasheed is in there, he really wouldn't be able to move out to 3pt line much. With the Cavs, Rasheed can move out to the 3pt line whenever he wants with Shaq inside the paint. I dunno but I am baffled. Rasheed would be more successful with Cavs, and he can definitely get the full MLE with both Cavs and Celtics..