I actually remember quite clearly what happened at the time. Toni not coming over had absolutely nothing to do with Jordan not wanting him to take away his spotlight. And as far as I know, the Jerry Krause wasn’t GM of the Olympic team, so your point is kind of moot.

Can’t agree more with your strategy. As you’ve no doubt discovered, I’m in the midst of posting something about this.

Those who propose these types of trades for the Raptors, as a way of supposedly “improving” the fortunes of the team are not very knowledgeable NBA people to begin with … and, I’m including [i] casual fans, [ii] independent bloggers and [iii] traditional media sources, etc., amongst this group.

I agree with your take on the proposed deal involving a player like Mo Williams, or Michael Beasley, as but 2 examples of potentially incoming players who would actually make the Raptors worse next season compared to last year’s team.

As unappetizing as it might seem to some … the correct way out of the Raptors current dilemma is to:

1. Trade Andrea Bargnani;

2. Trade Hedo Turkoglu;

3. Select the best player available in the 2010 NBA Draft;

4. Acquire an additional selection in the 2010 NBA Draft, in exchange for cash;

and, then, decide to let Chris Bosh do whatever he feels is in his own best interests, as far as re-signing with the Raptors is concernced.

Option 1 – if Bosh re-signs

Terrific!

If the Raptors did moves #1-4, above, then, this would actually be the best available option for Bosh to accomplish his long term goals in the NBA.

Option 2 – if Bosh signs elsewhere

a. Let Bosh walk … and use the available salary slot to attempt to sign other UFAs moving forward;

or,

b. Execute a feasible Sign & Trade.

There are plenty of very good young players available in this year’s NBA Draft to be able to gradually re-build the Raptors team, after the debaucle of the last 4 years, which has seen them waste the brilliant start to Chris Bosh’s career in the league, as a stalwart Big Man.

There have always been decent-very good building blocks in Toronto, provided that the team’s upper management actually knows how to use them in the right way, in the first place.

Yes, I read something similar about the debunking. It wouldn’t surprise me because I certainly don’t think it’s worth giving away the 2nd pick to get rid of Brand, but I guess you never know.

Already heard some debunking from some blogger in Philly who is supposed to be a good source, but I will listen to Chad Ford and hope for the best