Ron-Ron Doesn't Want To Go

by Tom Ziller on Jan 14, 2008 12:48 PM PST in Ron-Ron

Every week or so, I come across a random quote which asserts (to me) Ron Artest really doesn't want to get traded. Here's the latest one:

"I want me to come back more than anyone - except coach (Theus) and Kevin Martin," Artest said. "Kev likes playing with me."

If we didn't know Ron-Ron better, it'd sound like lobbying, right? The Franchise Player loves me! Coach loves me! Everyone loves me! Please don't trade me...

There are varying opinions around here as to Artest's value out there; one thing we should be able to agree on: The suitors pool is one less as Miami is on the verge of giving up.

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Pat Riley disappoints me

Oh well.

I am the stone that the builder refused I am the visual, the inspiration That made Lady Sing the Blues..I'm the spark that makes your idea bright...

by pookeyguru on Jan 14, 2008 12:57 PM PST reply actions

This team at full strength will be interesting. Bibby and Udrih are better than any other backup PG in the league. And Salmons could be one of the best SG/SFs coming off the bench. Which means we could have a very dangerous second unit. Can't wait to see it. Bibby-Salmons-Garcia-Williams-Hawes. Depending on the chemistry, that could be potent. And of course the mixing and matching of a starter here and there with the subs.

by kingsfaninjapan on Jan 14, 2008 12:57 PM PST reply actions

Bibby...

A healthy Bibby is not going to come off the bench!

A Beno-Salmons-Garcia-Williams-Hawes lineup seems much more likely...And just as dangerous

by Hoops916 on Jan 14, 2008 5:28 PM PST up reply actions

Artest Suitors

I would think that Toronto and Cleveland in the East, as well as Dallas, Phoenix, San Antonio, Los Angeles (Lakers), Golden State, Utah and Houston would all have varying levels of interest in Artest. Some may want him just so no one else could have him come playoff time (think the Spurs want to see Ron-Ron in a Suns or Mavs jersey?).

This is not to say that a trade can or will happen with any of these teams. But the list of potential suitors is certainly greater for Artest than it is for Mike Bibby.

The Kings are solid at the wing with Salmons, Martin and Garcia, not to mention Dahntay Jones. Don't give Artest away, but if a deal is offered that will solve your front line defense and rebounding and provide something for the future you have to take it, right? Or if it gets you out of K9's(woof's!) deal? Hmmm?

One last thought. With the emergence of Salmons and his suddenly affordbale contract, might someone come along and offer a deal for him, leaving Artest here instead?

SACTOWN ROYALTY - Try our thick creamy shakes!

by section214 on Jan 14, 2008 1:10 PM PST reply actions

As always

The spectre of Artest's personal baggage hangs over this question.

One last thought. With the emergence of Salmons and his suddenly affordbale contract, might someone come along and offer a deal for him, leaving Artest here instead?

Who knows? I don't see why not though.

Would it be a good idea to trade Salmons instead of Artest? If there were no Ron-Ron baggage, I'd say HELL YES. I like Salmons, but I'm still not convinced he will be this good long-term. Hell, KT played lights out the first few months he was here - and that turned to fools gold relatively quickly. And no, I'm not comparing KT to Salmons as a basketball player, just saying that things can turn around relatively quickly, especially when we are talking about a guy going from being a marginal NBA talent to a potential All-Star in a short period of time.

But there will always be baggage when it comes to Artest, so I think he's the guy to deal. But I hope he goes East - I'd hate to play him 3 or 4 times per year.

by otis29 on Jan 14, 2008 1:19 PM PST up reply actions