I agree with Micro that Delfino is much better suited at SF. Flip is a SG.

So why not Hunter as the main backup to CB? Is it just because of his age? Sure he's not the greatest, but he does bring energy and great D.

Then, throw AA or Blalock (the other should be in the DL) in there as the 3rd option and see what they can do. There's no reason why CB can't get a few minutes more rest per game under that scenario.

As for Delfino's work ethic. I don't pretend to know the whole story, nor do I know what's going on in his head. I can only speculate. But maybe last 2 seasons have been more of a mental drain on him than a physical one. Between the lack of PT, the injuries, the doublespeak from management, and the apparent tif with Mo.

I don't think he should be lounging around all summer mind you. If he wants PT, theres no better way to get the managment's attention than to work your tail off and TAKE the PT. Would I have loved it if he played in both the SL and for his national team? Sure. But of the 2, he'll probably get more training, practice and PT in for his national team than he would in a week in the Vegas League.

No one is yelling at J-Max, AA, AJ, etc. for not jumping onto another team right after the SL was over. Or like Star said, DD for taking the summer off after his tremendous work load last season.

__________________

Disagreements can be healthy. I have an open mind, and reserve the right to change it based on evidence. But I ain't endorsing Delfino on blind faith. He's got to SHOW something.

Delfino became a solid defender bout halfway through the season. I would call him an "outstanding" slasher, except that he can't finish at the hole. That translates into turnovers. He can't hit his foul shots and for a slasher, that translates into injuries. I do like his ball-handling skills.

Whether you or I see him as a "2" or a "3," the fact remains that minutes appear to be available at the 3. So I guess that makes him a "3" by default. Or another way of putting it is I don't think he can beat out Flip for the backup "2" minutes, so by default he's a "3."

I disagree.

Far be if from me to NOT answer a direct question.

I believe Joe traded Mo instead of Delfino for two reasons:

(1) Mo has better market value.

(2) Make room for Delfino.

Why Delfino sat behing Mo:

(1) Mo was kicking his azz in practice.

(2) Mo was a more reliable scorer.

Watch this season closely 16. Coaches play the players they feel gives them the best chance to win. Plain and simple. If the player they don't play happens to be your favorite player; the reasons go far beyond the "coaches pet" excuse.

Seems to me I asked you a direct question somewhere back there. I'm interested in your response.

I agree. But I disagree with your "tone."

In answer to your question, Delfino deserves a vacation, and will get plenty of work playing for Argentina. Check the Fiba schedule, it's pretty rigorous. Pre tourney practices, tourney games, then medal rounds. He'll probably get at least 10 playoff atmosphere games against NBA talent.

And if Delfino bombs next year as Tay's backup, well, I was wrong, and he should go. But, I don't think I will be wrong.

Mad-
BTW, this is what CD has been up to the past week:

The second annual Basketball without Borders -- Americas will take place from June 30-July 4 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.



The camp will feature 57 young basketball players, ages 19-and-under, from across South America and the Carribean who will receive instruction from NBA players and coaches, including Argentinian natives Emanuel Ginóbili of the San Antonio Spurs, Carlos Delfino of the Detroit Pistons and Andres Nocioni of the Chicago Bulls.


During the event , the community outreach for Basketball without Borders Americas will also feature the creation of a Reading & Learning Center, a Basketball and Books Clinic and two hospital visits to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS.




http://www.nba.com/bwb/americas2005_report.html

Mo played well in the playoffs... was not a liability on defense and shot over 60% (thanks Dobber)... does anyone believe that Delfino would have done better than this?
Someone will have to keep defenses honest on the perimiter next year so they don't pack the paint... who's that gonna be from our bench?

Carlos is teachin the kids, huh?

Maybe Carlos can show them how to drive the lane, and right when he goes up for the dunk, Manu can step in and finish.

Dale Davis.