Seattle's progress in this time has been, well mixed. Wins over Memphis, New Orleans, Orlando, Denver and Utah completed a seven game winning streak and rekindled slim playoff hopes, but these were duly dashed with an OT loss to Portland, and then losses to Denver and Minnesota. Now fans must look past the playoffs to the offseason, with perhaps a tinge of anticipation. Some highlights of the past 10 games: - Vitaly Potapenko's form. - Brent Barry's return. - Vladimir Radmanovic and Flip Murray providing some real sparks off the bench. - Some much deserved success for Nate McMillan after a tough season. What has become obvious: - One of Lewis or Radmanovic has to go. My guess is Lewis, he is not living up to his contract and I feel Radmanovic could cover his numbers from the 3 spot, and maybe even better them. - Brent Barry HAS to be extended. The contrast from when he was out and when he came back is too big to be called a coincedence. He is the glue to this team, period. - Potapenko has emerged as a lot more than just a throw in to get rid of Vin Baker's contract, and has arguable been their most important player in the last ten games. Thoughts from others on this team? Collison to come back, but changes NEED to be made.
I agree....although Rashard has been quite effective...he hasn't been quite efficient...30...and then sometimes 12.....I don't know....it's kinda iffy... Pot man....he's getting to show some skills.. Brent....THEY BETTER SIGN HIM FOR FULL WHATEVER HE WANTS. Cause he is our glue of the team.....that's about it I guess...
I agree with your three points points of "what has become obvious." Like you said I also feel Radmanovic would probably be better at the 3, and Rashard really isn't living up to his expectations. He's had many years to develop now, and I don't think he will ever emerge into that superstar player that he was expected to if he couldn't do it this year. I could be wrong, but this year to me was the one where he really should have made a statement and stepped up to become the leader of this team, and I think he failed the team on that part. He has put up some nice numbers, but I'm not very impressed. Although the Sonics should definitely try to extend Barry, I don't think they will get him back. Many teams are now looking to get him in the offseason, and that would be a crutial loss for the Sonics if they fail to resign him.
Brent wants to stay, he has come out and said that he would probably get as much satisfaction out of returning this team to the playoffs then he would by joining a contender and winning a ring that way. He is also at a time where his family and being settled is an issue, and I respect him enormously for that. Bottom line in the ball is in Seattle's court, and they need to offer something that will please both parties.
I agree with Brent and Potapenko, but I just cant go against my boy Rashard. I still believe he can become more consistent, and we know he can play at a high level so thats not a question. I think if Seattle can add that big man, it would help Rashard immensely so that he can play his game without having to adjust and help where the Sonics are lacking.
