Iverson trade brings Billups, McDyess back to Nuggets
By Chris Tomasson, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)
Published November 3, 2008 at 9:37 a.m.
Did the Nuggets improve themselves by trading Allen Iverson?
Photo by Getty Images
Allen Iverson, left, has been traded to the Detroit Pistons for Chauncey Billups, right, Antonio McDyess, and Cheikh Samb.
Drew on the NBA
Scores and statistics
The Allen Iverson experiment is over.
The Nuggets on Monday traded the All-Star guard to Detroit for Denver native Chauncey Billups, forward Antonio McDyess and center Cheikh Samb.
There was talk the Nuggets might buy out the remainder of McDyess' contract and he could eventually return to the Pistons, but Rex Chapman, Denver's vice president of player personnel, said McDyess would stay with the team. It would mark McDyess' third tenure with the Nuggets.
The Nuggets have 14 players on their roster and are acquiring three for one. So they on Monday waived forward Juwan Howard, the team's only player with a non-guaranteed contract.
Nuggets forward Carmelo Anthony expects to hear talk about the failed experiment of he and Iverson.
"People always have something to say now, now that Chuck (A.I.) is traded," Anthony said. "That’s going to be the main topic -- that it didn’t work. Of course it didn’t work. If we didn’t win a championship, of course it didn’t work. I had a great time playing with Chuck. He’s going to always be one of the best teammates that I ever played with. He’s always going to be my friend."
Iverson was acquired by Denver in December 2006 from Philadelphia. However, during his tenure the Nuggets went only 1-8 in the playoffs.
Billups, 32, a point guard, has made the All-Star team the past three seasons. He played for the Nuggets from 1998-2000 but did not blossom as a player.
The deal works under NBA salary-cap rules. Iverson is making $21.8 million this season in the final year of his contract, Billups $11.05 million, McDyess $6.8 million and Samb $711,517.
Billups has three years left on his contract after this one. He will make $12.1 million in 2009-10, $13.15 million in 2010-11 and $14.2 million in 2011-12.
McDyess, 34, has one year left after this one, also at $6.8 million.
The Nugget have been looking for a point guard since they gave up Andre Miller in the deal for Iverson.
The move will save some money for the Nuggets this season under the luxury tax. Nuggets owner Stan Kroenke has been in a cost-cutting mode since last summer, when he traded Marcus Camby to the Clippers for next to nothing, a move that could save (when the luxury tax is considered) more than $20 million.
Iverson, 33, averaged 26.4 points last season and played in all 82 games. However, he is averaging just 18.7 points in three games this season after being bothered by knee and ankle injuries in the preseason.
Billups is averaging 12.5 points this season and McDyess 7.0. Samb has not played in two games.
Billups, a former star at George Washington High School, played for the Nuggets from 1998-2000 but averaged just 12.7 points.
McDyess played for the Nuggets from 1995-97 and 1999-2002, averaging 18.2 points. He was an All-Star in 2000-01, but his career soon was wrecked by serious knee injuries.
Featured
-
DNC in Denver
Complete coverage of the 2008 Democratic National Convention.
-
The Crevasse
A five-part series that examines one tragic day on Mount Rainier.
-
Deadly denial
Sick nuclear workers applied for government compensation but most haven't seen a dime.
-
Final Salute
The Rocky followed Maj. Steve Beck as he took on the most difficult duty of his career.
-
'Colorado's burning'
Coverage of the state's worst wildfires.
-
Columbine shootings
Coverage of the April 20, 1999, shootings at Littleton's Columbine High School.
-
The Crossing
Colorado's deadliest traffic accident killed 20 children on Dec. 14, 1961.
-
Osveli's journey
Osveli Sales left Guatemala for a better life. Two months later, he came home in a box.
-
Wake for an Indian warrior
Oglala Sioux bestow a tribute to the first tribal fatality in Iraq.
November 3, 2008
9:57 a.m.
Suggest removal
avsfan71085 writes:
So trade an old guy, for two old guys we already had! YAY! I'm sorry but I fail to see the logic here. I love Billups and he has great tenacity on D, but he is getting older. Mcdyess is never going to be reliable, but he can bring D if healthy. Iverson is a scoring machine, ballhog and doesn't play D. In theory it kind of makes sense, but it seems like a quick fix, and I think younger talent is the key, not older. But if it helps I digress...
November 3, 2008
10:01 a.m.
Suggest removal
wj_nugs writes:
Apparently, this is a done-deal...
Well, now we have a legit PG for the first time in a long time. Sad to see AI go but let's face it, the Melo-AI combo wasn't working as much as we had all hoped. We weren't going to win the championship with this team currently built. AI deserves a championship more than anyone else in the NBA.
I think this move makes the D-Nugs much, much better....
Wow
November 3, 2008
10:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
SDcat writes:
Wow, this would be a huge blow to the fan base. Do the Nuggets not realize how many people tune into to watch AI?? He's the real draw, not Melo....bad decision if this is true...
November 3, 2008
10:14 a.m.
Suggest removal
blaw0013 writes:
Oh yeah, please work. I like this better than the original A.I. trade - as exciting as that was. And, we don't need to go a full season, or part of one, in which everyone knows A.I. had (or was being pushed) one foot out the door...
November 3, 2008
10:20 a.m.
Suggest removal
Hambone writes:
Great trade for both teams. AI is the face of the franchise? The real draw? Please!!!! Melo is the fanchise and now there is a legitimate point guard, something Iverson never could be. I'd like to see the salary implications for this year and the next. And we didn't give away draft picks for a change!
November 3, 2008
10:23 a.m.
Suggest removal
Kslayer writes:
Great trade for both sides!!!!!
November 3, 2008
10:35 a.m.
Suggest removal
xzacgenius writes:
I am an AI fan 100%, but I think this trade would do wonders for the Nuggets. At 6-3 Billups would not get posted up and is a defensive workhorse. This could move JR inot the starting lineup at the 2 and give Kleiza or the Jones the sixth man slot. Either way instant O off the bench. Yes we do loose AI and his 20+ a game, but we gain a floor general who will distribute the ball to the open man, drive, create and finish at the basket. Oh did I mention his D? Oh yeah I did. McDyess will help us in the front court and we are that much deeper. By the way lets deep six Hunter. Most of all lets do this deal now and not wait for Starbury to get released. I understand he worked out with a Denver assistant over the summer. AI, Melo & Starbury hmmm a lot of big names but very undersized in the backcourt (definitely not a good idea). So lets make this happen and I'll still route for my man AI (a DC native).
November 3, 2008
10:37 a.m.
Suggest removal
Coffee_Mug writes:
All that is left now is to deal that deadbeat Martin. Then we really start to make a little noise then. Good trade boys.
November 3, 2008
10:39 a.m.
Suggest removal
Dominator writes:
What is Warkentein doing? Seriously Kronke, get rid of this guy. I mean we lose the league's best rebounder and now the league's 3rd leading scorer for two players (one after the buyout) that have already played for the Nuggets and shown they don't mesh here? Vote "No" on Warkentein!
November 3, 2008
10:41 a.m.
Suggest removal
TIMMAH writes:
I don't know if this is going to bolster the Nuggets' tatoo count.
November 3, 2008
10:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
bythereever writes:
Good trade. Don't know if it'll put'em over the hump, but I'm certainly more optimistic now, both guys are team players.
November 3, 2008
10:44 a.m.
Suggest removal
kmeissner writes:
We'll see how this goes. It'll be nice to get Chauncey, but to get rid of A.I.? I don't get it. Not sure what I think of this trade yet.
November 3, 2008
10:45 a.m.
Suggest removal
SteveC writes:
I agree with avsfan, we traded a young player for two old players that we already got rid of???
November 3, 2008
10:45 a.m.
Suggest removal
Squatch writes:
Well it was fun while it lasted. Thanks Iverson for coming in here and playing your A$$ off I wish it would ahve rubbed off on Melo more.
I dont know how I feel about Billups & McDyess other than we made a play for Billups 4 years too late. McDyess isnt going to help this team so it sounds like the Nuggets werent going to pay Iverson so they traded him for Billups who will be around a while and McDyess will get dumped at the end of the season.
November 3, 2008
10:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
thevealchop writes:
I already miss Iverson... :(
November 3, 2008
10:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
AG writes:
Awesome. Pick and roll, defense to commence. Now we can see what Karl is made of too. GREAT TRADE!
November 3, 2008
10:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
xzacgenius writes:
No Glassguy,
Why? He seems to be one of the hardest workers on defense. I know he gets injured every so often, but you can definitely count on him not to quite on you in a game. K-Mart can defend the 2-5 positions, I think the only one on the team that can with the quickness and toughness to do so. He hasn't been a distraction last year or up to this point this year. I think his salary and injuries are what worry me the most, but he played I believe at least 85% of the games last year. He was the most aggressive and consistent on defense last year. With the addition of Billups and McDyess I think he will be that much more valuable. Am I wrong and just wishing?
November 3, 2008
10:49 a.m.
Suggest removal
Cutler6 writes:
Who exactly is the young player that everyone is refering to in this trade? Iverson? he is 33 not exactly young. Billups 32. A.I. is on the down side at this point.
November 3, 2008
10:49 a.m.
Suggest removal
ClarenceDarrow writes:
Great trade for the Pistons. After they move Iverson's salary or let it expire after the season, they will have $35 million under the cap to go out and get a superstar player. Nice job Joe Dumars.
November 3, 2008
10:50 a.m.
Suggest removal
pietrojoe writes:
I absolutely love it. Billups will be re-energized playing in front of the hometown fans. He plays defense and can hit three pointers, two aspects lacking in Iverson's game.
Billups is stronger than most guards and can use the post-up game effectively.
Iverson is the man, but he has to go. He dominates the basketball for 20 seconds then shoots. Or, he passes to Melo and he shoots. We need some balance and cohesiveness. Billups is a finals MVP who brings it every night.
I love the deal.
November 3, 2008
11:02 a.m.
Suggest removal
daRock writes:
I will miss AI. I love the way he plays. Never takes a play off.
That having been said, we were going nowhere in the playoffs with the team we had.
November 3, 2008
11:03 a.m.
Suggest removal
AirMax95 writes:
Wow.
November 3, 2008
11:07 a.m.
Suggest removal
buffsblg writes:
It seems the the Nugs decided there would never be enough shots for AI and Melo to share. This is not a trade to make the Nugs contenders, but it certainly changes the dynamics of the team. Billups is a pass first guard who can defend well and plays hard every night, although he is on the downside of his career. I generally like the trade and if some of Billups' work ethic and defensive intensity rub off on Melo, it will be a good trade. McDyess is just a throw in and likely will not even play here according to the national sites.
November 3, 2008
11:09 a.m.
Suggest removal
RockLobster writes:
The Post says the Nugs are going to buy out McDyess' contract and that he won't play for Denver. ???
I love that Chauncey is coming back home. I think he'll play his heart out for us.
November 3, 2008
11:09 a.m.
Suggest removal
jsppro1 writes:
As the regular readers know, I have been yelling for a point guard all summer, well, well, well. I think it's a good trade ONLY AND ONLY if JR is now inserted into the starting line up at the 2 guard. Billups, JR, Melo, Martin and Nene. Hummmmmmmm. AI yes will be missed. On a side note "if you're familar with strat-o-matic, it even works there too. Go Nuggets!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 3, 2008
11:17 a.m.
Suggest removal
McGowdog writes:
Now if we can just get Posie and Dikembe Mutombo and Mockmood Abduul Rawoof back!
Wow! Could we maybe trade Melo for Prince, Bubble-Boy and Sheed! Then we might have something!
Man! Denver sports is so great these days! How bout' them CSU Rams and their exciting loss to the BYU Cougars? And them CU Buffs? Wow! This has just been a great year!
November 3, 2008
11:18 a.m.
Suggest removal
mikeb80602 writes:
Good riddance AI. Welcome back Billups and Dice!
November 3, 2008
11:25 a.m.
Suggest removal
tantheman224 writes:
hey SDcat i beleive winning puts fans in the stands just as much as watchin AI so i feel this is a smart move sure AI is a HOF and will always put up huge numbers but he didnt mesh in denver and slowed the progress of Melo and JR and it will be nice to have a guy actually be able to stop dribble penetration instead of just talkin about playin defense everytime he is interviewed!! love AI's heart but dont love that hes a undersized shooting guard who hasnt won anything! as a fan its good to see the front office finally bringing in guys who like the idea of team ball and another outside shooter to take pressure off melo!
November 3, 2008
11:29 a.m.
Suggest removal
Highcountry writes:
Billups
J.R.
Melo
K-Mart
Nene
I like it. Especially if our bench can become special. We have some good, fun role players. But they have to play lights out.
November 3, 2008
11:31 a.m.
Suggest removal
TUBBYBEACH writes:
Good news Nugget fans, good news. We just received a true point guard who can shoot, play defense, and distribute the ball. Billups and McDyess bring much needed professionalism to this team. I see Billups getting in some faces for not playing defense. I now see us in the discussion of Western conference finals. I now see the end of the Anthony Carter era as the Nuggets starting point guard. This alone already makes the trade a success. I appreciate the fact management tried the Iverson experiment, but it didn't work. Management has finally done something that makes sense financially and makes the team better.
November 3, 2008
11:33 a.m.
Suggest removal
DenverMurf writes:
Good luck to you, A.I. You played your heart out here in Denver and many Nugget fans enjoyed the style of play you brought here. I remember watching you play your a** off while Melo and J.R. were out (due to the Knicks fight) and you carried this team while waiting for the suspensions to end. Unfortunately, your skill set matched too much with what Denver already has on the roster, so a change had to be made. Trading Melo obviously was not an option (at this time), so A.I. and his $20 million+ will be on it's way to Detroit (and the Eastern conference). Your infectious attitude and hard work will be missed (as well as your community involvement).
Let's hope that Billups still has a little left in the tank, to propel the Nugs into the playoff's second round or so...
Good luck A.I.
November 3, 2008
11:38 a.m.
Suggest removal
xzacgenius writes:
It seems McDyess is not on board. On NBA.com it appears "There is one sticking point to the deal, though. McDyess does not want to go to Denver, and a source close to him says "he will not put on a Nuggets uniform" and may opt to retire." What's up with this? That is a blower because I really thought McDyess could help our front line. Again I love AI, but Im still for the deal. Lets get a pg who can distribute and score as efficiently. A definite solid threat from 3 pt range.
November 3, 2008
12:08 p.m.
Suggest removal
leatherneck writes:
This is a bad trade. Iverson is a team player, Billups likes to play for himself.
November 3, 2008
12:13 p.m.
Suggest removal
tantheman224 writes:
How can people still be whinnin about chauncey not meshin in denver his first go round? seriously that was like 10 years ago on a terrible team and he was young still tryin to find his nba game ridiculous!! and losing camby wasnt that huge either only reason he had so many blocks was cause hed block the guard AI was letting get by and his rebound numbers were huge because the pace the nuggets played meant more shots and more shots means more rebounds and did i mention he had no low post offensive game? sure hes the best help side defender in the game but if anyone else played defense his stats would have been more accurate to his ability and as for AI anyone who understands basketball realizes he was just a cancer in Denver
November 3, 2008
12:14 p.m.
Suggest removal
ramAZ writes:
I'm sad to see AI go. Loved him in a Nugz uni. It will be nice for Chauncy Billups to be back in Denver and the Detroit paper said he told Detroit front office that he would like to come home to Colorado. Checkh Samb.... who? Is that a typo? He's a non-factor... as is Mr Fragile McDyess. Hey Antonio... you're a backup on the downside. Doubt you have a no-trade, so do us a favor and get your salary off the books and retire.
November 3, 2008
12:14 p.m.
Suggest removal
wj_nugs writes:
Yeah this deal is Billups for A.I. McDyess won't play for the Nuggets so he is just a "throw in" at this point. Not sure I would completely understand why McDyess doesn't want to play for the Nuggets? Oh well, welcome home Chauncey! Let's rock!
November 3, 2008
12:18 p.m.
Suggest removal
LingLingfor_prez writes:
Go Blazers! Don't worry about the playoffs Nuggets fans, you won't be there this year anyway. I do think that Kleiza is a keeper though, be a mistake to let him go.
November 3, 2008
12:19 p.m.
Suggest removal
FatTony writes:
YES! We needed a point guard of Billups' caliber. Iverson didn't fit well with us, and his style of play is best suited elsewhere. I like the deal...don't know the financial impact on us, but sounds like it's still in our favor, than before the deal.
I'm actually re-energized to see the Nugs again! If we could only get rid of Chris Marlowe & Scott Hastings from calling these bloody games, Christmas would come early for me!!!!!
November 3, 2008
12:19 p.m.
Suggest removal
jrhino writes:
I like Billups at point. McD might be a servicable back up at the forward position this year if they keep him. Kenyon seems to still hurt on back to backs.
November 3, 2008
12:22 p.m.
Suggest removal
chillywilly writes:
Wow... I hope yall know Billups... Is NOT defensive... The team he comes from played great TEAM defense... But, you'll see... lol Hats off to AI... who got traded because of a stupid front office.
Had they kept camby and gave AI his extension at a cheaper price, they could have had
AI, JR, Melo, Kmart, Camby and Nene off the bench...
smh dummies...
November 3, 2008
12:25 p.m.
Suggest removal
shawn8840 writes:
welcome home mr. billups, love the trade
November 3, 2008
12:28 p.m.
Suggest removal
FatTony writes:
Billups is still a better defensive player than Iverson. Gimme a break. Look at AI play defense. Fake a pass, Iverson jumps as high as he can to block/deflect, dribble around him and then take it yourself or pass to the open man. He gambles WAY too much on defense...and no Camby man to rely on anymore.
Camby was for financial reasons. I didn't like it at first, but it's opened our eyes to realize that everyone else has to step up now, and we're playing better team D.
Only dummy is you chilllywilly.
November 3, 2008
12:30 p.m.
Suggest removal
denver15 writes:
SDCat---terrible logic for this being a poor trade. You don't think people will come to see the best Denver born player in recent history? Also, if you are scared to make trades based on turnout even if you feel it improves your team than you have no business as an NBA GM. Also, lets be real, wins=turnout.
November 3, 2008
12:30 p.m.
Suggest removal
shawn8840 writes:
as charles barkley put it AI is the worst defensive player in the league
November 3, 2008
12:33 p.m.
Suggest removal
ramAZ writes:
So... Chillywilly... you're saying the Nuggets "could have had" what they already had? That makes a lot of sense. And since when are BLAZER trolls popping up on here? That's a team that's done NOTHING in the past decade. Congrats on that.
November 3, 2008
12:34 p.m.
Suggest removal
shawn8840 writes:
im with you denver 15 only i think billups is the best COLORADOAN ever to play the game
November 3, 2008
12:35 p.m.
Suggest removal
Spider writes:
This trade make sense. Both from a team chemistry point of view and from a salary cap POV. But Dang! I'm going to miss AI. He brought a lot of heart and excitement to this city. I was one who originally thoght that the trade to get AI in the first place was not such a great idea. But his intensity and his attitude turned my negative thinking around almost immediately. I loved his post game interviews win or lose he was always possitive and ready to play the next game. Good luck AI hope you guys go all the way (unless you play us).
November 3, 2008
12:50 p.m.
Suggest removal
denver15 writes:
Judging by the comments some people are going to be cynical of the Nuggets regardless of the roster they put out there. Something tells me the same people ripping this trade were the same people last year complaining about the Nuggets lack of defence. This trade (whether McDyess comes or not) drastically improves their perimeter defence and will help keep the ball rotating on offence. So far the D has been fairly solid this year albeit their defensive rebounding needs work. The Nuggets offseason moves may have been cost cutting but every bench player they brought in (Balkman, Jones, Andersen, Weems) are defensive oriented and an improvement from the role players (not Camby) they replaced. Stop the cynicism and lets see how this plays out, so far the Nuggets have played 3 games and have had a chance at winning all 3, one against the best team in the league.
November 3, 2008
12:59 p.m.
Suggest removal
jersey writes:
I've always loved AI's game ever since his days at G-Town. Unfortunately due to his size he has always been a defensive liability. Has the heart of a lion and the guts of a burglar and will be sorely missed. Hopefully Chauncy has somehow learned to be a finisher on fast breaks. He was one of the worst as pt. guards go in getting to the rack while missing the layup. Has always been among the leaders in free throw attempts with a high percentage. Needs to complete the deal.
November 3, 2008
1:20 p.m.
Suggest removal
yessur writes:
good luck, nugs. you just traded your best player.
November 3, 2008
1:27 p.m.
Suggest removal
Devil_Dog writes:
McGowdog
Perhaps YOU could do better?
November 3, 2008
1:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
pete10000ft writes:
well at least we can stick a fork in'em early this season..bad move Denver..you think Billups will play for Karl?!?Karl is a spin man who is selling Denver the snake oil like Shanahan has been since 2000.
AI went to a winner and Billups and McDyess got sent to the Siberia of the NBA
November 3, 2008
1:51 p.m.
Suggest removal
Falcon4100 writes:
"wrecked" his career, Tomasson? Do you watch basketball? McDyess has been a key role player for the Pistons for the past four years.
November 3, 2008
2:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
ONEman writes:
I love this trade, Chauncey is a smart player who can let it rain 3's all night long, he is replacing A.I. who has long been a favorite of mine on tenacity and heart alone , so when he was traded here I was ecstatic. What's that saying? "You don't know what you got till it's gone." After A.I. started playing here I realized what we
lost in Andre Miller, to further prove my point watch what Philly does in the East this year with Elton Brand as an addition.
November 3, 2008
2:07 p.m.
Suggest removal
ONEman writes:
Anyway we all saw A.I. turn into a whiny ball hog with a poor free throw skills , especially in the clutch. Also the out of control runners that he takes and misses, then whines he got fouled instead of getting back on "D" subtract from Carmelo s game.Who also by the way doesn't play "D". AI is a great player but he will never get a championship till he learns to play 5 man ball. Carmelo's ego and style are enough already A.I. was too much. Not to mention J.R. and his baggage.
November 3, 2008
2:08 p.m.
Suggest removal
ONEman writes:
We will not get Mcdyess, the Nuggets will buy out his contract and he'll resign with the Pistons. But the big deal is all of the free agents next year now that we have some tradeable players and draft picks, Le Bron James, Dwayne Wade, Michael Redd, Manu Ginobli, Ben Gordon just to name a few but the list is stellar and probably about 10 to 15 more players of this caliber. Nixing Marcus Camby was a good move he didn't know how to be a true center all offensively, his ugly shot and playing point on the fast break hurt us last year.
The Nugs are building a stronger team for less money. I love it.
November 3, 2008
2:11 p.m.
Suggest removal
MileHighPatriot writes:
finally... i can be a enthusiastic about the nuggets again...
November 3, 2008
2:28 p.m.
Suggest removal
ColoradoNative writes:
The Nuggets have a LONG history of poor personnel decisions. This reminds me of way back when they sent Orlando Woolridge packing and he was the best man on the team.
November 3, 2008
3:14 p.m.
Suggest removal
denver15 writes:
Dismayed Nuggets fans should check out this link from one of ESPNs main analysts. Do not jump off the building just yet. Look at the reasons provided and think for yourself, but #2 is going to be the greatest benefit to this trade.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns...
November 3, 2008
3:33 p.m.
Suggest removal
theinfamouskwon writes:
goodbye AI. Lincicome must be oh so happy.
November 3, 2008
3:35 p.m.
Suggest removal
crami20529 writes:
Iverson has never won a championship for a reason and he wasn't going to win one here...Billups on the other hand, was part of a TEAM that did win! Great trade because we add chemistry, defense, and proven leadership!
November 3, 2008
3:37 p.m.
Suggest removal
denver15 writes:
Lincome has never been and never will be happy. See "bitter old man" in dictionary for reference.
November 3, 2008
3:42 p.m.
Suggest removal
ONEman writes:
2009/2010 Free Agents
Kobe Bryant
Le Bron James
Tracy Mcgrady
Dwayne Wade
Paul Pierce
Jason Richardson
Josh Howard
Carlos Boozer
Steve Nash
Manu Ginobli
Tony Parker
Chris Bosh
Joe Johnson
Ray Allen
Dirk Nowitzki
Kenyon Martin
J.R. Smith
Tayshaun Prince
Shane Battier
Michael Redd
Jordan Farmar
Rudy Gay
Brandon Roy
Rajon Rondo
Tyrus Thomas
RIP Hamilton
Al Harrington
November 3, 2008
4:26 p.m.
Suggest removal
McGowdog writes:
""Devil_Dog writes:
McGowdog
Perhaps YOU could do better?"""
I could, as a matter of fact.
I'm happy for AI. If he gets traded to a team that doesn't bow out in the first round, He's found a better home.
November 3, 2008
4:32 p.m.
Suggest removal
paguy1955 writes:
got some good seats for sale..Wish they would of pulled this trade BEFORE the season started!
November 3, 2008
4:46 p.m.
Suggest removal
thecritic1 writes:
Good trade, however, we had both of these players on our roster here before and either let them go or did not wait to develop their talent. I'll admit that they may have been here under different ownership (not sure) at the time, but under the current ownership, it really doesn't feel like they have a plan or direction for the team's future. Sure, you could argue that we are making that plan now, but looking at the transactions in the draft, free agent signings, and trades...Stan and his buddies do not know how to manage and build an NBA team to get past the first round of the playoffs!
November 3, 2008
4:56 p.m.
Suggest removal
harry writes:
A.I was the reason why Denver made it to the playoffs last year.J.R smith is not that good, K-mart can't shoot ,billups in the west come on chris paul,nash,deron williams, tony parker are going to run all over him. Carmelo is the only player on the team who you know will put up big numbers every night now that iverson is gone. I'm sorry bad trade on denver part.
November 3, 2008
5:04 p.m.
Suggest removal
1world writes:
I wish AI well and hope he gets a ring for Detroit or which ever team he finds himself a part of. He put everything out on the court for Denver while he was here and deserves a lot more appreciation from sports casters and some fans. He was humble after every game and appreciative of the Denver fans. He was a class act while in Denver. We lost a lot of class this summer with Eddie, Marcus and AI leaving. They are at the top of the league in playing with their hearts and putting everything out there. I wish only the best for them - there weren't three other players on the team that were as selfless (yes, even Iverson!) towards their teammates.
November 3, 2008
5:17 p.m.
Suggest removal
denverone writes:
Thanks A.I. Been a pleasure watching you play!. You played your but off every night and I respect that as much as anything.
Good luck in Detroit.
November 3, 2008
5:33 p.m.
Suggest removal
Denver_Junkie writes:
Colorado sports are a joke. At least A.I. played defense. That is not in Melo's vocabulary. Maybe Karl will try and trade Melo for Kobe. . .Karl. I heard he just got released by the Lakers and I am sure George will find some way to bring his son on the team. Gee just like our fabulous CU Buff coach who we just gave an extension to. Cody worked out great didn't he dad? The only decent college teams in the state are AF football and DU/CC Hockey. And by the way, how does Hurdle get a pass every year? The Monforts have turned into the new version of Al Davis and the Raiders. Until they sell, the Rockies will go nowhere while Matt Holliday will probably win a penant somewhere. How do they fire half the staff and not Hurdle? He is a bag of excuses. Finally, the Broncos. . .How hard is it to find a defensive coordinator that actually has a plan? Obviously Shanny can't draft (Cutler was a no brainer). The defensive talent is the worst in the league outside of Boss and Champ Bailey. Elvis has his moments, but for the love of God, the DB's aren't as good as Grandview's. Matt Tucker or Terrell Davis' nephew of Grandview Tyree Davis are better than anything the Broncos have at safety or corner. Can someone please find some talent. Hire Mark Schlereth as a talent scout. He knows more than the entire coaching staff. Fire Shanny and bring him in. And people didn't think John Elway ran the Broncos while he was here? Please. Shannahan's coaching genious has been exposed. He might ask Elway and the Crush if they can borrow a running back.
I am out!
November 3, 2008
5:36 p.m.
Suggest removal
Denver_Junkie writes:
I am sorry, genius and pennant.
November 3, 2008
5:44 p.m.
Suggest removal
TONE writes:
Hey what about Chucky Atkins? Can we get rid of this guy too. What a waste of money and roster spot on him.
Now Melo can stop hiding behind AI and come of his shell. Remember he was just starting to progress in as a player and when IA arrive it seems Melo has step back from becoming a star. Seems like he let AI be the start and he was a backup to it.
I like the trade.
For those who keep saying AI is a team player and he is all this and that....PLEASE!!!!
AI is and always will be a great 1on 1 guy. Never a team guy...'are we talking about practice, practice,pratice...now we talking about practice....) get my point.
November 3, 2008
6:03 p.m.
Suggest removal
Denver_Junkie writes:
A.I. was a player. The rest of the team just sat back and watched him play. He gave his all every play. Can Melo or any of the Nuggets say that? This was all Melo because he wants the points. Karl used to have nuts but somebody castrated him. Melo runs the team and Karl is a patsy. I went to a game and paid $200 for 2 tickets to watch Melo play and took my 15 year old kid. Melo stubbed his toe in the first 5 minutes and pulled himself out for the rest of the game. He ran back in to take his foul shots and ran into the locker room. I could see him in the hallway laughing it up with one of his boys. He sat the rest of the night when he decided to come back out. There was nothing wrong with him and he played the next night. Martin has his goons try and oust a fan for heckling Martin. He needs it! We paid 90M for a bag of balls! He needs another tattoo that says "I took the Nuggets" Now who else do we have? Nene? Kleza? The "Birdman". They got rid of the Defensive player of the year in Camby. Are they going to let Kobe and the Lakers score 200 now? Kobe might set a new record against us. I forgot. Cheikh Samb. Where's he from Uzbekistan? I liked Antonio, but he will miss 3/4 of the season hurt, and Chauncey had great players around him. Watch what he does now. Nothing. He will be just like Miller in Philly. Ever wonder why players leave here and become superstars?
Out again!
November 3, 2008
6:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
shawn8840 writes:
denver_junkie
AI is one of the worst defenders in the basketball and for all of you saying that c.bill will not or can't handle the west guards i have 2 words for ya. FINALS MVP
November 3, 2008
6:10 p.m.
Suggest removal
Bigg_Nuggets writes:
What has escaped in the breakdown of this trade is the fact that it makes more sense than the AI original trade if you plan to build a team around Melo. AI is a slasher who occasionally makes the outside shot but relies on his abillity to get to the rim. Melo also needs to get to the rim in order to get his game going. This means the two best players on the team are trying to get to the same point on the floor and the team as a whole becomes one dimensional and easy to defend. Billups can post up occasionally, but his best weapon is great floor vision and a deadly accurate long-range shot. Melo is double teamed and J.R. or Billups get an open look. Teams run out on the shooter and Melo, K-Mart and Nene get an open look under the hoop. Billups will be able to play pick and roll effortlessly and he will not be a liability on defense. AI has heart, determination and gobs of talent, but his style contributed to the bogging down of the middle which is why the Nuggets HAD to run to score otherwise teams just packed it in the lane allowing for K-Mart's "great" shooting to go on display. I see no negatives in this deal and anyone who says this is not making the Nugs better isn't looking at the facts or doesn't know the game of basketball. I don't know if this means the Nugs can contend, but I know this means they have a better chance of making some noise. One last thing. I LOVE McDyess and the front office needs to apologize for whatever bad blood exists and get him in a Nugs uniform. Fans let's let Antonio know how much we appreciated him and want him back. He is a quality individual and a hard working player. Please put on the Nugs uniform again my man.
November 3, 2008
6:15 p.m.
Suggest removal
Denver_Junkie writes:
Tone. . .practice, practice, practice? How many years ago was it that A.I. made that statement? He doesn't need to practice, but I digress. . .He held Melo from progressing? The Nuggets need to hire a hand holder and cheerleader for Melo so he can progress now? Kobe Karl is available. A.I. was a player among stiffs. Melo has no concept of defense. Maybe he can progress in that now. A.I. wasn't a team guy? Who is your team guy Tone? Melo? Martin? Nene? Martin has a posse around him so kids can't ask for autographs. Melo is pretty much the same way.
November 3, 2008
6:19 p.m.
Suggest removal
Denver_Junkie writes:
Bigg, I totally agree with your McDyess comment. Just hope he can stay healthy.
November 3, 2008
7:30 p.m.
Suggest removal
Cutler6 writes:
Sometimes I am amazed at the fan base here in Colorado, I was born and raised here. I hear so many people talk about individual players and how great (or not) they are/were. The best thing that happened to me in Colorado, was the broncos winning 2 superbowls and the avs wining 2 stanley cups.
Do you want to win a championship or do you want to watch a bunch of indivudual stars run around. Yea, I am not high on Melo, and this trade doesn't garauntee any championship,but for how great of scorer AI was/is last time I checked it was Chauncy and Mcdyess who own a championship ring.
November 3, 2008
7:32 p.m.
Suggest removal
paguy1955 writes:
Dear Denver junkie;
Here is a phrase for U..That was 4 years ago..Ancient Chinese History.. That fact and 2.00 can get you a cup of coffee
November 3, 2008
7:40 p.m.
Suggest removal
ldemaio writes:
read what bigg_nuggets wrote 3 or so before me
November 3, 2008
8:13 p.m.
Suggest removal
GetReal writes:
Thank you for your hussle A.I., and the mentoring of Melo.
Good luck.
November 3, 2008
8:44 p.m.
azshadow writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
November 3, 2008
8:54 p.m.
Suggest removal
jbowen43 writes:
Get ready for a lot of eighty point games. Yawn.
November 3, 2008
9:29 p.m.
Suggest removal
azshadow writes:
I loved AI.
AI is so much more exciting to watch compared to Billups.
There goes a lot of excitement in watching the nuggets play this season.
November 3, 2008
10:13 p.m.
Suggest removal
GOPteacher writes:
Great trade. AI played hard, always tried, but didn't fit.
So it's really exciting to watch one guy dribble for 20 seconds, then take a really tough shot, and make it 35% of the time? AI is a great defender?
The reason everyone sat back and watched AI is that AI dominated the ball, and only passed for assists, but mostly looked to score. Nobody moved because they weren't getting the ball anyway, and might get in his way.
Hey, DenverJunkie, maybe you should take up golf or something. Or you could start writing a column alongside Lincicome...
November 4, 2008
12:09 a.m.
Suggest removal
tantheman224 writes:
I hear the nuggets have waived j howard is that a roster move to actually keep Mcdyess? and i also have seen that rex chapman says mcdyess will stay with Denver if he really does come its another added bonus to the trade adding front court depth and another professional guy! idk why anyone who watches the nuggets everygame wouldnt be very happy to see ai go! cause i am sure sick of that damn smack of the hands and whinning after every time he misses a shot
November 4, 2008
12:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
valleyboy_1 writes:
I think this is an excellent trade. You guys will most definitely be better on paper with Chauncey. However, due to the fact that you play in the West...., it won't matter. Chauncey is about to get a smack in the face reality check on how competitive the west actually is. However, this is a steal for the Pistons. Rent Iverson for a year, see what it do... free up cap space for the Ultimate prize. Tell me you didn't see that coming Denver? Thank you for going along with this trade and enjoy this moment while it last, because when the fourth quarter comes, and your point guard completely disappears........ then you'll be ripping your hair out for iverson back.
November 4, 2008
8:02 a.m.
Suggest removal
cassidy22 writes:
OH lord. Sorry, I'm from Detroit and will always be a Pistons fan, but the last thing Detroit needs is another criminal. Iverson is an embarassment to the NBA.
November 4, 2008
8:29 a.m.
Suggest removal
jersey writes:
cassidy22: FYI. Iverson has been a model citizen here during his 23 month stay. Look it up. Your criminal assessment is pure stupity and ludecrous on your part. He might have been a defensive liability but a criminal? You've got to be out of your freakin mind!