Break the Curse

Iverson, Please go away

Since I am up early, might as well write something about AI.

ESPN article

"My people just informed me that we are getting close to a deal. I asked them to call me when its done. I am so ready to know!" said a post on Iverson's Twitter account late Wednesday morning."

Everyone remembers AI's infamous practice quote, but do people remember he is fifth all time in points per game.  Personally I think he got a bad rep last year just because Billups and the Nuggests performed way above expectation.  AI didnt get along with his Pistons teammates but when has animosity distracted him from performing in games?  Never.  Iverson had a rocky relationship with Larry Brown and he still averaged over 30 points to carry the Sixers into the Finals.  He did offered to come off the bench for the Pistons.  Iverson's value is extremely low given how badly the Pistons played, but he can still ball.  Despite being 34, he still gets into the lane at ease.  He is still a solid player, particularly if his team uses him for scoring boost off the bench.  You might be surprised at all these praises but I think AI deserves credit for still sticking around and playing hard at a high level.

However, he would be a terrible fit here.  The Clippers has NO spot for Iverson.  Not with BD already running the point.  Can you imagine the horror show with Baron/AI/Thornton in the game??  Maybe Thornton will punch out AI just to touch the ball or Baron will headbutt AI just so AI wont be taking up all the allotment of shooting 30 footers.  The defense would just be utterly disatrious.  Hey, you can go pick up Camby in fantasy and he might just average 5 blocks a game with those 3 guarding the perimeter.  The most important thing is that he would be taking a majority of EJ's playing time.  Its not like Iverson is a savvy veteran who is going to take time out to pass down his knowledge/experience.

I realized it is unlikely that the team he is negotiaiting with is the Clippers.  I just felt like whining even at the thought of it.  I think Iverson deserves to go to somewhere better to finish off his illustrative career.  The Knicks would be a nice spot.  Coupled with Nate Robinson while running D'Antoni's offense?  Get your popcorn ready!  I know New Orleans is not in the pursuit for AI but I acutally think it would be a perfect match.  The Hornets really dont have a serviceable 2 guard.  We have already seen how potent the Hornets can be with Paul and Pargo.  AI would be Pargo on roids.  Tyrone Lue better not sign with whichever team AI goes to or else Lue will be seeing tons of Iverson's fury.