I remember thinking at the time that the Jefferson addition seemed extremely reminiscent of the Finley addition they'd done a few years earlier. On paper it sounded great, but when you see it actually implemented you find the guy just isn't going to put up impressive numbers as a 4th option. Finley's PER in first year in SA: 12.7 Jefferson's PER: 12.5 The big difference is that back when Finley was added, Tim Duncan was four years younger. GM's tend to look a lot more savvy when their superstar player is still in their prime.
For those searching for respect or validation from the National folks, it's not coming. Let them make all the excuses they wish for the Spurs or why the L*kers never win here. For Kenny and Chuck (as well as many other vets), I'm sure Portland was one of the worst stops on the road. Not only was it small and boring and usually raining, but there aren't any black people here. In other words, most NBA players on a road trip who are here for a night or two can't wait to get the hell out of PDX. That attitude translates to commentary. In other words, fuck 'em if they don't get it.
Also, the Spurs have been in the spotlight a long time. They're talking to a national audience that hasn't seen Portland much, so they just talk about the team people know...if POrtland wins a championship or 2 they'll be the focus of the commentary for years after that, too.
manu appears to have broken down. the same is not true of duncan(though it's a question mark if he'll be anywhere near 100% by the end of the season). and the idea that parker isn't that good is entirely false.
