Tuesday 10 August 2010

THROUGH THE WIRE: NEWS (08/10/10)

6 OCT 1992: USA BASKETBALL TEAM MEMBERS MICHAEL JORDAN (MIDDLE) SCOTTIE PIPPEN (LEFT) AND CLIDE DREXLER (RIGHT) ACKNOWLEDGE THE CROWD AFTER RECEIVING THEIR GOLD MEDALAS MEMBERS OF THE DREAM TEAM DURING THE 1992 BARCELONA OLYMPICS IN BARCELONA, SPAIN. Man

Throughout the majority of his NBA career, Scottie Pippen was considered Michael Jordan's sidekick. Well Pip was much more than this, he's a true legend, a Hall of Fame Talent and he will be honored by a Hall entry this Friday. This time the tables will turn and Batman will give the stage to Robin as MJ will present Scottie with his honor. It's a fitting tribute where the greatest ever will tip his hat to the man that always had his back. Jordan was enshrined last year and there will also be a Hall Of Fame credential delivered to 'The Mailman', Karl Malone. Scottie, Michael and Karl where also part of the Olympic 'Dream' team that will be highlighted during the Hall of Fame. Make that two invites this year for Scottie, he may finally be receiving the attention he deserves.

This years free-agent market is still busy, despite some of the buzz dying down. The Dallas Mavericks are expected to improve their depth with the reported signing of Tim Thomas. The Power Forward will sign for a year on the veteran's minimum. Tim played for Dallas last year and is a solid big man with outside range. he could be a nice cover for Dirk Nowitzki off the bench.

It also became official between Tracy McGrady and the Detroit Pistons after the two sides flirted over a potential deal at the beginning of this week. Tracy will sign for one season on the veterans minimum. He brings star appearance and talent to the 'motor city' but with the size of his contract and the time it took to sign, will he power his way to the heart of the Pistons? Or will he just be another part of the assembly line? Detroit considers this former 'big' star a 'small' risk, but they say he's worth the gamble. It's clear Tracy's injury troubles mean that Detroit aren't 'weak at the knees' to sign him but if anyone saw how Mac played for the Knicks last year he's far from past his best. He's made his way out of the Rotten Apple in Madison Square Garden, now in Detroit it's his time to make his way to the core.

Boston Celtics head coach Doc Rivers (R) presents his jersey to newly signed Celtics player Shaquille O'Neal at a news conference in Waltham, Massachusetts August 10, 2010.  REUTERS/Brian Snyder  (UNITED STATES - Tags: SPORT BASKETBALL)

Looking like a Classy Old Englishman wearing a bow tie in New England, Shaquille O'Neal was introduced to the Boston Celtics Tuesday. His sharp look has because he felt like he was joining an executive club. Shaq also stated how he was looking for a fifth and sixth ring before he retires. Looks like the Rivalry with Kobe is now officially renewed. It's gonna be one, long, 'Big Green Mile'.

Boston Celtics' Rasheed Wallace carries the Eastern Conference trophy after the Celtics defeated the Orlando Magic in their NBA Eastern Conference playoff series in Boston, Massachusetts May 28, 2010. REUTERS/Brian Snyder (UNITED STATES - Tags: SPORT BASKETBALL IMAGES OF THE DAY)

It's a real shame, but one of the most entertaining figures in Basketball history is going to 'chill out' and retire. Rasheed Wallace will be hanging up his headband as the Boston Celtics look to buy out the remaining two years on his contract. Boston have already made roster movements to accommodate Sheed's departure but still he will be missed. He gave Boston's front-court depth despite some troubles last year. In his last ever game he showed determination and hustle notching 11 Points and 8 Rebounds against the Lakers in Game 7 on the NBA Finals. Rasheed's career will be remembered for more than the T's. Technically speaking Wallace was one of the best, versatile Power Forwards of the last 10-15 years. He was a star in Portland, an instant Championship asset in Detroit and his hustle, energy and hard work was undeniable. He also had one hell of an outside stroke, on hell of a smile, and one hell of a positive attitude. We'll miss ya Sheed.

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