Difference makers
Solid but not spectacular. Dependable but not a superstar. A finished product but no potential. A team player. A model of consistency. Sacrificing his personal game for the good of the team. Players that embody these ideals are a coach’s dream. In the me-first, get-me-the-money, what-have-you-done-for-me lately culture of the NBA when you find a player that harkens back to the blue-collar workhouse days of the past, it’s rare. In today’s league of shoe contracts, endorsement deals, high slamma-jamma, rap albums, break-your-ankle crossovers and three-point bomb barragerays (yes, I made that word up), it’s tough to find somebody to do the grunt work that every contender needs.
All great championship teams have them. The glue guy. The players who do the dirty work. The unselfish former college star who took a back seat to help the team flourish. ML Carr and Bill Walton of the Celtic teams, Bobby Jones of the Sixers, Kurt Rambis and Michael Cooper of the Lakers, Bill Laimbeer of the Pistons, Horace Grant and Dennis Rodman of the Bulls, Robert Horry and Derek Fisher of the Lakers, all the way up to Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat last year and Bruce Bowen of the Spurs this year. Every team needs that special player who will do whatever he needs to do to help his team win – be it diving on the floor for the loose ball, laying wood in the lane, setting a hard pick, putting the opposing team’s best player on his ass, committing a decisive foul, roughing up the other team or being a locker room leader.
Guys who do this have been on every championship team. And players in the league who fit this category now are few and far between. But we recognize and here is our list of go-hard glue guys. Watch out for them next year to help make their teams contenders.
Shane Battier. The ultimate glue guy and a big reason the Rockets should make some noise next year. Battier exudes confidence, never backs down from any challenge and has mad heart. The dude is a winner through and through. He bleeds victories and his presence will help Houston and T-Mac finally get to the second round.
Udonis Haslem. Yes, we already shouted son out but this solid, dependable rebound machine does what he’s supposed to do – play defense and hit the open jumper. His game perfectly complements DWade’s and Shaq’s. Look for him to be a pivotal part of Miami’s revival next year.
Luke Walton. Who knows what will happen with the Lakers, but whatever they do they need Luke Walton. When he was hurt last year, they struggled. He is an intricate part of their team. If he has the right stars around, him he is an excellent complementary player who will do his part to help his team win. His court vision and sense of the game are phenomenal. He does exactly what he’s supposed to do at exactly the right time. He complements Kobe and if Kobe stays and they add an impact player the Lakers can compete. Like his dad, Luke is a tough customer and knows how to win.
David Lee. The third year Knick out of Florida belongs here. He’s proved that with his double-double average and breakout at last year’s frosh-soph game. Lee is a rugged, rough player in the mold of Bobby Jones and Dennis Rodman. He won’t give anybody an inch. He rebounds like a madman and gets his points off the glass. His improved play along with the acquisition of low-post threat Zach Randolph will be big reasons why the Knicks make the playoffs next year.
Raja Bell. Steve Nash is the director of the Suns orchestra, but Bell might be the heart and soul of the team. His relentless defense, slutch shooting and show of strength inspire confidence and admiration in his teammates.
Tayshaun Prince. This long, athletic defender always covers the opposition’s best offensive player be it Kobe or LeBron. He had an off series offensive-wise against Cleveland, but look for this tough player to bounce back with a stellar season and help Detroit to another strong year.
Matt Barnes. He was a critical piece in the Warriors miracle playoff run last season. It seemed he was always the one hitting the open three, grabbing the loose rebound or skying high for that board.
Eric Snow. The wiley veteran, the crafty point guard, the defensive stalwart. Snow helped the Cavs reach the Finals in so many little ways. His defense, his calmness under pressure, his leadership. What Snow lacks in offensive prowess he makes up in pure heart and desire.
These guys are not the stars nor will they ever be. But they are difference makers and next season they’ll be up to the task and helping to make their teams contenders.
mercer Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 2:55 pm
i feel that a guy who is everly underrated in this department is anthony parker a guy who was the “michael jordan of europe” is a tremendous defender always covering the opposing teams best wing player, can drill threes at a very high rate, never forces or takes bad shots and was in the running for the sportsmanship award, hes a terrific locker room guy as well.
Brian Boytono Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 2:59 pm
Can anyone else say Michael Olawakandi? The straw that stirs the drink people! if he decides to play this year im sure a number of suitors will be lining up at his door. The guy is in his prime and a double double waiting to happen. Not to mention his team first attitude and everywhere the man has been they win. He would be a great addition to any contender.
ethan Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 3:13 pm
actually I think if David Lee keeps up his amazing play he might be a star in this league
Deuce Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 3:49 pm
“Like his dad, Luke is a tough customer and knows how to win.”
cough cough what. Luke good role player, but, “tough” no way
greg Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 3:51 pm
the kandi man? are you kidding the guys a bust
Paul Cross Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 4:11 pm
Great article.
I am a huge Luke Walton fan, he does a little of everything. I also like the following:
Josh Childress
Tony Allen
Ryan Gomes
Chris Duhon
Andres Nocioni
Zydanis Ilgauskas (sic)
Richard Jefferson (an all-star calibre talent in a perimiter laden team)
Grant Hill
Matt Harpring
D-ROCK Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 4:21 pm
Michael Olawakandi? Is that some sort of twisted joke???? The only glue he represents is the glue stuck to the bottom of his shoes!!!
ryan Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 4:26 pm
Are you kidding? Kandi is not a winner or hard worker and has never been. He has been given a number of oppurtunties and failed in them all. One of the worst overall picks in NBA history. Only time he even played OK was going into contract year. Agreed Ethan, I could see Lee averaging 18 12 one day.
gie Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 4:50 pm
I don’t think Eric snow belongs here. If the cavs wopuld have had a bit of youth or other scorers , they would at least had won a few games in the finals. David lee has a lot to prove. Only 1 fine year and a small double double and you’re a differance maker ?? If the heat would have had a nice power forward they would still compete , but if you take 30 starting power forwards , Haslem is around place 20. So why make a star of him ??? Bruce Bowen ,Robert Horry , Derek Fisher , Tayshawn Prince are the ones you want : never all stars but always important pieces of WINNING teams. and what about : Josh Howard , Shawn Marion , Lamare Odom : never been the big stars , but their value for their teams is incredible. Olowokandi ??? Haha
Dave Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 5:15 pm
Tony Parker is a Finals MVP! not a glue guy. Clearly this list is young(er) players that have ability to further develop into that role. Mike Bibby has that role in Sacramento, unfortunately he is about their best player too. That’s why Varejao isn’t on this list, a hustle player for sure, but clearly overachieved last season, can anyone see him playing better this year or next.
You gotta also consider the new move for veteran players moving into limited minutes roles to have this effect, like D Fisher last year in Utah, or what Grant Hill hopes to do in Phoenix.
Derrick Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 5:46 pm
huh? Olowokandi..are you kidding me? the guy is a loser. I was at his home in Nigeria when he got drafted number. I hung out with his brother Soji and went to school with his younger brother. His dad retired when kandiman got drafted from the Military. These guy is what we call a bor - loser, just happy sitting on a bench and getting paid. What a loser and waste of talent. Laziness is a disease.
b dizzle Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 6:10 pm
eric snow???
you have got to be kidding me.
he is THE worst point gaurd in the leauge when you figure in his salary, respect level and playing time. he is not a playmaker, he cannot finish at the rim, he cannot shoot he can only gaurd one type of player (bulky small forward with no handles) and he has an ego the size of new york city. this guy still thinks he is the leader of the cavs to this day.
he is so bad that he lost his starting job to a second round pick rookie on a team competing for the top spot in the conference.
D Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 6:12 pm
I agreee with alot of these guys but ERIC SNOW,WOW????
He hasnt been productive in the last 4 to 5 years. He is prolly the worse shooting pg in the league to go along with his over rated defense. For 6.5 to 7 million a year i wouldnt be able to sleep at night if i were Dan Gilbert! Given, he has been to 3 finals in his nba career dating back to seattle in 96. I will have to give him some credit, but in 2007 he is clearly stealing money out of Dan Gilbert pockets……
dudek Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 6:13 pm
No Dave, mercer wasn’t talking about Tony Parker. He was reminding us of Anthony Parker, the Raptors’ player who spent a lot of time playing in europe before coming back to the NBA.
mr unbeatable Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 6:21 pm
GLUE GUYS?
Well boys and girls here r my thoughts….who ever said anthony parker, knows ball cause thats a glue guy. who ever said candi should take up another sport. guys i like but dont get the credit, hmmm let me think..barbossa, horry, prince, gooden,stackhouse,butler,u have to big up nauchbaur on the nets for last year,even though i hate him,wallace,mike miller, ///the list can go on.. but the men who run the leauge and illest in my eyes have always been,,garrnett, pierce, baron, kobe, lebron is gettin there, big ups to billups, t-mac,ohhhh no i just remembered.. and i’ll put it on paper the biggest glue guy who dose not get enough credit hands down… MR.SHAWN MARION..thank u
Jesus Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 6:21 pm
I agree with billy bob, Olawankandi is a first ballot hall of famer and will lead whatever team he’s on to a championship like he always does. Peace out to all followers…..sheep.
Dustin Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 6:34 pm
Anthony Parker is a different fella than Tony Parker, Dave. Check it out. He also covers wings and shoots threes well unlike the PG for the Spurs. Mike Bibby is a pretty bad defender and a shoot first point guard. I do agree that Grant Hill could be a great addition to the Suns, though.
Twiz Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 6:51 pm
Dearest gie, ryan, d-rock (nice name), and greg,
I’m pretty sure Mr. Boytono was laying down some pretty thick sarcasm when referring to Kandi. I feel sorry for you idiots who thought he was serious. How do you guys sleep at night?
And here’s to not only what Raja Bell does, but what Grant Hill WILL do in 07-08. Oh yeah, and if Diaw can just pull his head out of his French ass, count him in too!
Brian Boytono Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 7:14 pm
Thanks for clearing things up about the Kandi man comment. I was having a few laughs at work reading people dispute his being on this list. hahaha
Rey Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 7:15 pm
From the raps you could go with Anthony Parker or Garbo….. they’re both good defenders, shooters and they both play hard… I don’t know about Snow being on that list now but when he was in Philly, was a great glue guy…
Linc Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 7:15 pm
Don’t you guys get it — that was Michael Olawakandi himself posting trying to get his sorry butt some run!
barcus Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 7:19 pm
eric snow?!? hahaha nice one.
Twiz Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 7:24 pm
As they say, “It takes ALL kinds!”
david Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 7:40 pm
How could you possibly put Prince in for his defense and not include Bruce Bowen. he defends everyone from kobe to Le Bron. And he can still knock down a 3 (or several)
Elvar5 Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 7:52 pm
Gie?? are you kiddin me? “a small double double?” there is no such thing as avareging a small double double. The dude is a beast. 3rd year in the league and he is second only to what Kg, howard and what kidd? did someone actually see how many double double this kid had last year? Maybe not the most talented athlete but the dude can play and he’s got some fire… this guy is probably the most underpayed player in the league and one of the most underrated to. Like some nba coach said that I just can seem to remember the name of or was it jordan. ” it’s not a battle of skills, its a battle of wills!” and the boy has will and alot of it.
p.s agreeing with everybody on eric snow, dudes burnt out…
George Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 7:59 pm
Eric Snow still has more work to do to be a legitimate piece to this list. You noted him, but should have at least given Snow’s spot to him! What about Derek Fisher! HUGE! Someone said it above, but Stackhouse for sure should get more props. He could still have all sorts of offenses designed for him, but has taken a backseat to help the team win. Too bad for him Dirk choked, and the Mavs got trained by Golden State.
Gerald Wallace should get some nods too, perhaps he might if the ‘Cats rack up a few more wins this season. Kirilenko is a guy who could and should be this sort of player, but his whining last season makes me think he still has some ego shredding to do, but the talent is indeed there.
Don’t forget Kurt Thomas when thinking of the Suns, I think many people might realize how valuable a piece he was now that the Suns got rid of him for a rack of basketballs and towels.
Dany Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 8:08 pm
Seems like every1 knows about bball in here but dont kno how 2 spell n e 1’s name (Zydanis Ilgauskas>>> wtf?) Lee Bron? common now. N e ways I like Andre Miller maybe a bit old now and doesnt have a 3, but pass 1st and good rebounds. and Kwame Brown, hes a solid stat guy. n e ways im out…
and i was jk but the Kwame part makin fun of the Kandi man
mercer Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 8:16 pm
i havent gotten to see much of olowakandi, although hes obviously a bust what part of his game needs improvement the most and what things does he do well?
Misha Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 8:24 pm
aight heres the deal. a glue guy is what makes a team from being a mediocer team to a championship team. they do all the small things that the Superstars cant with consistency. the great roll players of our generation have been Scottie Pippen, John Starks, im missing some, Rick Fox and FIscher of the 3 peat Lakers, Bruce Bowen, and Ben Wallace. well in my opinion…all those players on that @004 Pistons team were roll players but Wallace did all the little things. He in my opinion is one of the best of all time. Luke Walton and Shane Battier abd Josh Howard and espically Shawn Marrion are the best of our generation…
Hammond Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 8:52 pm
What about Mike Miller? Team’s not so good, but I think h’s under-rated.
Che Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 8:54 pm
WORKING CLASS HEROES
Kevin Martin
Anthony Parker
Deron Williams
Shawn Marion (though obviously not by choice)
Ben Wallace
Lamar Odom (BOO LAKERS SUCK PLEASE DON’T TRADE YOUR SPOILED CHILD TO A GOOD TEAM)
dj hott Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 9:02 pm
earl boykins, nociani, stackhouse,matt barnes,kyle korver,jason kapono,balbosa,devean george,horry,finley,corey maggette,d.fisher,
hey chicago could be the best team without loosing any big four and get jermaine oneal
word is if new jersey doesnt trade jefferson &krystic then chicago
is waiting for nociani,t.thomas,t.sabolosho, duhon, and 08 pick
bulls gk.hinrich a.barrett von wafer
g.b.gordon j.curry aaron gray
f-loul deng jawad williams
f-j.oneal a.sweetney
c.b.wallace j.noah
im scared of them
dj hott Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 9:11 pm
indiana g-j.tinsley g.c.duhon c-j.foster
gt.sabolosha g.m.daniels sf-shewn williams
f.d.granger f-m.dunleavy
f.nociani f-t.thomas
c.troy murphy c-ike diogu
worst starters in nba, best 2nd unit
oh and chicago would have joe smith as backup also
other awesome roleplayers-nick collision,david lee,mo pete,mutumbo, mourning,c.frye,s.blake, overrated but kirilenko
Wheyweth Wordz Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 9:35 pm
Alonzo Mourning………end of discussion
Great Column... but at least two missing names Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 9:50 pm
This is a great article, but I just have to point out two missing Toronto Raptors. I’m glad to see Anthony Parker’s name mentioned twice before me but the Raptors don’t get enough exposure in the U.S. for people to truly appreciate his game. Anthony Parker is an outstanding glue guy. Rarely does he ever take a bad shot as witnessed by his FG% and 3 point-FG% and he always takes his shots within the flow of the offence. He takes on the opposing team’s best wing player every night and does an admirable job of playing tough defence. He even expanded his range as the season went on by adding a deadly 3 pointer to his automatic mid-range jumpshot.
The other Raptor not on this list is Jorge Garbajosa. He started at the 3 for much of the season and despite not having the most athleticism, he was the best defender on the Raptors. He guarded quicker, more athletic players every night and used his superb basketball IQ to negate his opponents’ superior athleticism. He drew very important charges and his hustle and determination was vital to the Raptors’ success. No doubt if the Raptors still had Garbajosa for the playoffs, Richard Jefferson wouldn’t have had such an easy time scoring and the Raptors would have been able to get past the first round.
These two players are definitely deserving to be on this list because of their importance towards the Toronto Raptors basketball franchise.
Hammond Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 9:54 pm
Samuel Dalembert– if he learns to limit his fouls, he could be a great defender.
david Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 11:04 pm
all the raptors bench particular Jose Calderom. SOLID player new youk tryed their hardest to get him, they were willing to but up 1st round draft picks and channing fry before the trade deadline so that showss how much the nba has noticed him, Raps shoud hang on to him
Rashidi Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 11:13 pm
Hawks: Josh Childress
Celtics: Tony Allen
Bobcats:
Bulls: Joe Smith
Cavaliers: Anderson Varejao
Mavericks: Jerry Stackhouse
Nuggets: Eduardo Najera
Pistons: Antonio McDyess
Warriors: Andris Biedrins
Rockets: Shane Battier
Pacers: Danny Granger
Clippers: Chris Kaman
Lakers: Luke Walton
Heat: Udonis Haslem
Grizzlies: Brian Cardinal
Bucks: Dan Gadzuric (Charlie Bell if re-signed)
T-Wolves: Trenton Hassell
Nets: Jason Collins
Hornets: Bobby Jackson
Knicks: David Lee
Magic: Tony Battie
76ers: Kyle Korver
Suns: Raja Bell
Blazers: Joel Pryzbilla
Kings: John Salmons
Spurs: Bruce Bowen
Sonics: Nick Collison
Raptors: Jorge Garbajosa
Jazz: Matt Harpring
Wizards: Etan Thomas
Rashidi Said,
August 14, 2007 @ 11:14 pm
Oops
Bobcats: Matt Carroll
Gus Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 12:01 am
Man, how can you guys forget Eduardo Najera? I remember watching him in the playoffs when he was playing on the Mavericks. Back then they had no defensive players but him and Raja Bell, they were up against the Sacramento Kings and his assignment was to contain Chris Webber. Boy did he do his job, in one play, he stripped Webber of the ball and so Webber, being the polite man that he is, got frustrated and pushed Najera on his side. Now Najera is in Denver providing them with some much needed hustle and energy. I’m out like Michael Olowakandi and his career.
Stephen Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 12:53 am
Brian Cardinal for the Griz?! Are you serious? That guy isn’t worth a quarter of what they are paying him. He played decent his contract year and came to Memphis and took a fat crap on the city. He is useless.
George Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 1:02 am
dj hott: You think Bird is going to bite into that hardly cooked dish you toss out of your kitchen? Please. No doubt your proposed lineup for the Bulls would be a wrecking crew (until Tony Parker gives them a face full of floaters in a finals sweep), but unless Deng or Gordon is stirred up into that, you are dreaming. If Larry trades Jermaine, he is going to need a lot more if he will be seeing him four times a year in the East on a different team.
Aside from that trash, Najera is indeed solid. Where do people think Sam Cassel fits in on this list? I know he has slowed down a bit, but the man certainly knows how to leave his fingerprints on a game.
frank Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 3:09 am
first off, the moron that called scottie pippen a roll player obviously doesn’t have the same mental capacity as those who picked him as one of the 50 greatest nba players, but if you want to go with MISHA on that one, then go ahead, i’ll stick with the consensus. craig hodges, bj armstrong, john paxson, luc longley, bill wennington, scott willams, satcy king — those were roll players. either english is a second language for you or you are just STUPID.
and on the subject at hand. a glue guy is the guy, who isn’t your superstar, that does everything on the team that needs to get done for that game. he can score, defend, get a rebound, or hit the open shot. he can be accounted on for anything. and noone in the league epitomizes that than:
1. shawn marion (head and shoulders above the rest)
2. tayshaun prince (hey reggie, where’s the block party?)
3.bob horry (in a nostalgic mood thinking of big shot bob in his prime)
4. shane battier (only duke pro left who hasn’t gotten seriously injured)
5. josh smith (superstar in the making?)
Scott Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 3:09 am
Marquis Daniels, every time he gets minutes or starts he’s outstanding, as long as you don’t depend on him too much.
Also, has no one mentioned Quinton Ross yet? Prototypical role player/glue guy right there.
I’d add Steve Blake, Francisno Elson, Luther Head, Walter Herrmann, Tyronn Lue, Mikki Moore, Renaldo Balkman, and Antonio Daniels as well.
Emre Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 3:17 am
dj hott, I think you’ve got to show some respect to those players and spell their surnames right. It’s really really disrespectful! At least surf around teams’ websites and get the right spellings. Here it goes:
nociani –> NOCIONI
balbosa –> BARBOSA
sabolosho/sabolosha –> SEFOLOSHA (!!)
loul deng –> LUOL DENG
shewn williams –> SHAWN WILLIAMS
collision –> COLLISON
mutumbo –> MUTOMBO (He’s been around for a century, for God’s sake…)
And I think ‘ sign will be good in O’NEAL, too.
frank Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 3:23 am
oh and in case if anyone was wondering. i left bowen off cuz he’s a horrid free throw shooter and sometimes a liability on offense. a streaky shooter at best.
zo’s a tough one, but he gets an honorable mention.
josh howard is a superstar so he gets a no too.
as for eric snow. i love the love for a fellow spartan, but his offense is the reason he was benched. and if you are benched in favor of an unproven rookie, then you shouldn’t be on this list.
when it comes to all time. i have two favorties. first, i’m going with dennis rodman when he was a bull. although he couldn’t shoot. it was more likely that if you missed, he would get the offensive rebound and give you one more shot at it. and when your playing with mj and scottie “THE GREATEST ROLE PLAYER EVER” pippen, then that’s not too shabby. oh yeah and talk about shut down defender, didn’t you love doug collins saying “the mailman doesn’t deliver on sunday” during the 1998 finals.
second was joe dumars. one of the best clutch shooters we’ve seen and mj did say he was the best defender he’s ever played against.
Emre Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 3:24 am
My additions to the list:
T. Lue
David West
Q. Ross
I. Udoka
Delonte West (not yet, but I’m pretty sure he’ll develop into a great role player)
Plus, I see some light in Francisco Garcia.
Madinchitown Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 5:02 am
I think the whole Bulls team are “blue collar”/”glue guys”. I mean think about it None of them have “superstar status, and most of tham have maxed out their abilities, with the possible exceptions of Deng, and Tyrus Thomas, Deng has a seemingly ever increasing ceiling, and improves his game another notch each season, and Thomas’ athletic ability and high energy could propel him into the upper eschelon of players in the association(but that will reamain to be seen for some time to come). Reality is though, they just get it done with hard work all around…nobody is afraid to take or give a hard foul, dive on the floor, or grab a rebound. It is the mold that John Paxon and Scott Skills are attracted too, which makes perfect sense, since they were themselves cut from the same cloth. Kudos to them for proving you don’t have to have the required 2 superstar minimum to compete in the playoffs. That team will be just fine running the course they have set for themselves, and if Deng steps up and takes over games the way it looks like he is capable of, they will be set for a long time coming. Do they need the post treat…yes, but Thomas, entering his second season could be that threat if he gets his footwork down…he has the speed to beat any pf out there, and the size to dominate any sf. I realize I have gotten off the subject, but the point is, to a man, the foundation for them all has been the hard work they do at both ends of the floor, and that alone won’t get them traded for Jermaine O’neil, Pau Gasol, or anyone else anytime soon.
pachero Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 5:16 am
Jorge Garbajosa is the ultimate team player, one of the highest basketball IQ in the league.
statusmvp Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 5:30 am
where is leandro barbosa at??? he was able to be the 6th man as a PG coming off the bench for an MVP PG (steve Nash)…the boy definitley knows his role and knows it well….good attitude..works hard…..
biggame james Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 5:36 am
Eric Snow. Olowakandi! Cocaine is a terrible drug! Eric Snow has got to be the worst pg ever to make 6 million… Olowakandi (If I could just see him in person, Id slappp the shi# out of him. How can you big so big, yet so stupid and dumb! He doesn’t care. He’s hurting the game terribly. There’s someone over seas right now that could be given his contract. Number 1 draft pick. Yeah… For the damnnn army………..
BABUR Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 7:27 am
Tayshaun Prince is the best role player for me.Be carefull about Ryan Gomes,continue to watch him.He will become a historical trade error of C’s i think.But my best is Vinnie Johnson of Pistons in the history of NBA with his great defence & exellent shooting.
dj hott Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 8:01 am
most names i missspelled are foreign and spell their names 8 different ways anyway, and brian cardinal is the most overpaid underachiever, then eric snow, and the one player not on the list would be, next year adam morrison
and toronto just had a lucky year, see how kidd embarrassed ford, and bosh was a no show, and bargani has to find his position, and jorge garbageojo
yea i misspelled that one on purpose, he would fall in najera, kleinza, area.
parker would have trouble driving on hinrich, like wade did
and once he gets past him, he has a 6′11 oneal, if not a defender in b.wallace, no 23pts off floating layups there.
the fact is the bulls are too loaded with substars, and could get a big finisher, but probably think it is not worth the risk
but u have like 11 quality players on your roster, strength in numbers?
or delete a few and pick up the real deal,
sorry but when u have 3 or 4 players at pf that can give 10-13pts 5-7 rebounds, why not bolt for a real star
bullsg-hinrich duhon aaron gray
g-b.gordon thabo j.curry
f-loul deng andres
f-joe smith t.thomas
c-b.wallace jokim noah
that looks real nice, but will thomas ever be a 21 11 guy? and defender
at 6′8
dj hott Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 8:03 am
and if lebron doesnt win it all in 2 years,
he may be the tallest man to catch balls from brady quinn
in the nfl
DP Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 8:35 am
When it comes to glue guys, three names come to mind…Anthony Parker, Jorge Garbajosa & Luol Deng.
Norm Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 8:55 am
For Charlotte, it might be Walter Herrmann or Sean May. Herrmann had a fantastic finish last season but definitely will be coming off the bench this season. Could provide the offensive spark from the second team. Sean May just needs to stay healthy to backup Okafor and Brezec. Adam Morrison hasn’t shown much at all.
Gus Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 9:28 am
Marquis Daniels, if given minutes, can be a triple double threat. His shot is not always accurate, but with his rebounding, slashing, and passing he can be a great addition to any team. Lastly, the man can play great defense. He played good defense on DWade in the finals, but once he sat back down DWade took advantage of it by going off on Devin Harris, most of his points were off of cheap fouls, but, whatever.
kyle Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 9:28 am
Anthony Parker without a doubt. A lot of you people failed to even mention his name.. guess it’s because anyone outside of Toronto doesn’t get to see him much.. he can do it all.. and if his offensive role was expanded by the coaching staff, he’d have no problem scoring the ball more either
kyle Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 9:30 am
Gus, Daniels has been inconsistent for the most part of his career, especially with Indiana.. how can you consider him a “glue” guy
dj hott Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 9:41 am
and yea i notice i spelled collison the only american right
and if any of these players won a ring or an allstar team, i would respect them enough to spell their names right,
hey every body knows how to spell dirk, so why is it irk nowitzki?
because he has no D
I WONDER WHAT HAPPENS WHEN BALBOSA AND NASH GUARD EACH OTHER IN PRACTICE?
AND HOW COME THE SPURS CENTER, F.OBERTO IS NOT ON THIS LIST?
TYSON CHANDLER OR DAVID WEST
A.Doherty Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 10:08 am
Kandi Man belongs in the glue factory.
Giacomo Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 10:12 am
dj hott. you are quite possible the biggest idiot i have ever seen on a basketball forum.
you refuse to spell non-american names right? that is racism. world wars have been started by dumb cunts like you thinking they are better than other races… “most names i missspelled are foreign and spell their names 8 different ways anyway” “hey every body knows how to spell dirk, so why is it irk nowitzki?
because he has no D”
dickhead
Kingsblade Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 10:25 am
For those of you remember that keep talking about Marion, remember that part of the definition of a glue player is a player who is also a good locker room influence and good overall teammate who DOES NOT CARE ABOUT HIMSELF, BUT THE TEAM. While I agree that Marion is often underrated I cannot include him in the Glue player category for two reasons:
1) It has become a well known fact that he has become somewhat of a locker room poison because he wants to be the star. This is not the attitude of a glue player.
2) He is already considered to be a star, during Nash’s second MVP season Marion garnered some talk himself as a candidate and even received some votes I believe. This is certainly not a role player.
I just wish everyone would keep in mind that the concept of glue player is not just talking about who is a blue collar player, but also refers to his attitude and locker room qualities. It also does not include young players who are likely to become stars one day, this category is for players who have found their role and embraced it.
acr Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 10:57 am
gotta say that shawn marion is the best glue guy. never gets the credit that the big boys do( kobe, t-mac,pierce, lebron….) but when a guy posts double double numbers like he has done in recent years, then he is essential for the suns if they’re gonna contend. hes a more vital component than bell, even though he is very important, and also more vital than thomas was. bowen should be on the list. the spurs wouldn’t be the juggernaught they are without him
Rapsfanforlife Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 11:29 am
dj hott you have no idea what you’re saying. How many raptors games have you seen? the raps are going to EASILY win the Atlantic this year. Everyone is talking about the Celtics - 2/5th of their starting lineup couldn’t make the raptors roster. And the Nets are too inconsistent. The raps are another year older and better. They’ll be competing for the East…and in four years they’ll be NBA Champions. You heard it here first.
dj hott Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 11:54 am
THAT DID SOUND LIKE A RACIST COMMENT, I APOLOGIZE
BUT I DONT HAVE TIME TO SPELL CHECK, SOME PLAYERS NAMES OR CARE LESS ABOUT SPELLING IT AS LONG AS U KNOW WHO I AM TALKING ABOUT
AND GIAMO I BET I KNOW A HECK OF ALOT MORE THAN U KNOW
AND TELL ME, DOES IRK HAVE AND D?
WORLD WARS, OH GOSH, GO BLAME GEORGE BUSH, GREEDY FAGGOT ASS
FOR WORLD WARS, IDIOT
dj hott Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 12:01 pm
IRK, NO D
NO DEFENSE
IRK COULDNT GUARD HIS PIGGY BAG, IRK COULDNT GUARD IF HE HAD A SECURITY UNIFORM ON
AND I WAS IN A RUSH FOR THE MISSPELLINGS
AND TRIED TO ERASE MY 8 DIFFERENT WAYS TO SPELL NAME COMMENT
NOT RACIST, BUT SOME PLAYERS TO SPELL THEIR NAMES DIFFERENT,
AND WHY WOULD I CHECK WEBSITES FOR SPELLING
ITS NOT THAT IMPORTANT
AND GIAMO, WHY DONT U GET OFF MY DICK AND LEAVE A COMMENT ABOUT SPORTS, INSTEAD OF WARS, AND THINGS, AND U MAKE THE SITUATION BETTER BY CURSING AT ME, WOW YOUR COOL
dj hott Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 12:10 pm
LAST TIME TYRONE LUE WAS ANYTHING WAS WHEN HE FIRST CAME IN THE LEAGUE, AND WAS QUICK ENOUGH TO GUARD IVERSON, WHO NOBODY ELSE COULD, NOW HES NUTHIN
Q.ROSS, ISNT MUCH,
AND IDMO-IVE NEVER HEARD OR SEEN HIM PLAY BUT I HEAR HE IS THE FORCOMING OF BRUCE BOWEN,
C.FRYE WILL BE NICE THIS YEAR,
AND IT WILL BE FUN TO SEE WHAT, FRANCIS, OR BONZI WELLS CAN STILL DO, CAN ANYTHING MAKE HOUSTON A 2ND RD TEAM?
George Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 1:05 pm
Good comments but some questionable selections. First of all Dennis Rodman, a two time defensive player of the year, five time NBA champion and 7 consecutive years as rebounding champion (tied for most consecutive with the Big Dipper) was hardly a “role player” and definitely not a glue. He did do dirty work and he did a lot of good things there, but not a glue. Horace Grant should not even be mentioned in this category. Nor should Bill Walton. The guy was a league MVP, finals MVP, one of 50 greatest players in NBA history. If you put Walton there then you should put any old former superstar in that category. I mean Grant Hill was the glue of the Magic last season, and so was Penny for the Suns before they traded hom to Ny etc. I think the Bull’s glue was always Pippen, but he was too big of a player to be considered a role player, in the first run was Paxson, and during the second run either Ron Harper or actually Kukoc would be a good selection here as well. I would also add Sean Elliot for that era. I would disagree with Fisher of teh Lakers teams as well. Though I am a bit biased because I think anyone who played with the Daddy would look like a glue. Even Haslem. Or look like a superstar like Koke. And I think they should all give him half their paychecks they collected after leaving his teams. Yes, Jason Kapono is in that category now as well. Like Damon Jones before him.
From the new guys’ list. David Lee, Udonis Haslem, Eric Snow, are all good role players but not “the glue” of their teams. Again, a little bias here when it comes to Haslem because he plays with The Daddy.
Here are the ones I would add to the list for sure.
Sam I Am, makes every team a winning team.
Doug Christie, despite that big choke against the Lakers in 2002.
Stephen Jackson - as crazy as that is. And as crazy as he is.
That is it! Unfortunately. I think for new york it’s probably Crawford more than Lee.
Cheers!
Mike Collin Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 1:35 pm
Snow is horrible. A good defender, but not great. He hustles and is best when defending a taller 2, but agaist quick 1’s this guy is too slow these days. As a Sixers fan I could never figure out how this fool couldn’t develop a consistant jumper. If he could hit open shots maybe he deserves this list.
Edgar Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 2:03 pm
Ask Lawrence Frank……. THE glue guy of the NBA is Anthony Parker of the Toronto Raptors. The guy has no weakness.
Ed Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 2:35 pm
Charlie Bell
Jose Calderon
Manu Ginobli
Jerry Stackhouse
Shane Battier
Tayshaun Prince
Joe Smith
P.J. Brown
Morris Peterson
Bostjan Nachbar
Matt Harpring
These are great role/supporting players because when they get on the court they know what they need to accomplish. If a team needs energy, scoring, defense, etc…these guys always rise to the task.
david Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 2:48 pm
dj hot what planet are you from? it sure aint earth
Channing Frye will not be nice, he will be decent he has no strength so player shorter than him but more built will run over him, Tyrone lue had 11pts per game nd 3asists per. thats proper numbers nd played only 56games. for a 1round pick 23overall thats decent, not the best but decent and there was the worst player drafted 1st overall…KANDI, hes the worst who can put him as a glue guy hes more of a hourse going to the glue factory
Jax Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 2:54 pm
Some guys that are missing from this lists are Shawn Marion and Andres Nocioni, maybe Desmond Mason? Well, I don’t agree with Eric Snow making the list… however, with respect to David Lee - Amen!
paul Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 3:52 pm
good call with some of these guys. but you are still an idiot for putting the guys on this list who are on LOSING teams. difference makers play for winning teams.
Gulam Chowdhury Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 4:45 pm
david lee is going to be one the best all around big men by the end of the year. his play will help the knicks reach the playoffs. im not sure how far they will go but the roster looks decent. nate robinson is another role player that i predict will step his game up. renaldo balkman and wilson chandler are expected producers too. the team has alot of weapons its just a matter of chemistry and heart to win.
raphael Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 4:56 pm
Dj hott is the ulitmate glue guy, a little bit like Kandiman. He knows how to work his ass off to get bashed by everyone.
On a mosre serious note, I have a trouble with the definition of role player/gue guy/difference maker.
The ultimate epitome of this for me is a defense specialist. Let’s take Michael Curry who would average 3 pts, 3 rbd in 30 minutes with a good Pistons team. When younger I could not understand how come such guys could eat so much playing time while not producing more. Even when reading the steals line, the guy did not seem impressive. So I was wondering if the guy was kicking balls (mmm Bowen did) or making excellent passes on the perimeter and then turn the towel well enough.
Later I understood that in fact a Michael Curry or a Rick Brunson (and his famed 1 p, 1 rbd averages) were more than role players. They were devoted people. in fact, the glue guy is all about devotion. When thinking about Shane, he average around 14,5 pts in his rookie game to see this declining on a ok memhis team (at that time, 2001, Pau Gasol emerged, Swift couldn t play, Bryan Reeves was looking at the stars…). The whole body language of any of these guys reads TEAMPLAY.
The only thing I wonder about is how you detect this kind of guys. Look Bruce Bowen was averaging 32,1 pts a game for France’s Pro B Evreux Team. Michael Curry was also an offense powerhouse, Udonis Haslem averaged 19 pts and 8,5 rbds while playing for Chalon in 2004. Many of these people have been individualists at a point of their carreer… Where the transformation came from, how come the HEat understood that Brice Bowen was Bruce Bowen? Same goes for Ben Wallace: when he started for the Wizards back in 1997 he was a SG! He had to wait 2000 and the Orlando Magic to blossom as the ultimate PF/C for the 5 years to come.
Bombard Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 4:56 pm
Rajon Rondo of the celtics will be the next great roll player, also Scalabrini is a great roll player, he always hustles
dj hott Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 5:39 pm
david, isnt frye just like aldridge i guess less potential
and dumbass, aldrige is hurt, and oden isnt ready to be a allstar, so why wouldnt frye be able to do good, remember his rookie year like 13 and 7
hes older and on a new team, just watch what i say,
and david lue 11 pts and a low 3 asts, on a horrible team the hawks, with only speedy claxton as other pointguard, those numbers dont pop out,
what is he good at?, is he a deadly penentrator?no,has he ever had over 12 assist in a game?doubt it, and can the man shoot a lick? no, all on a team he couldnt make better. and yea RAPSFAN, ITS GOOD TO BE A DIE HARD FAN, KEEP ROOTING, AND IN HOW CAN U PREDICT A RING IN 4 YEARS, THATS WHEN LEBRON WILL BE SO MAD HE HASNT GOT ONE YET, AND DURANT AND ODEN WILL TAKE OVER BY THEN
THE RAPTORS WILL NOT MAKE THE PLAYOFFS, CASE CLOSE
I hope they keep this post up forever so some idiots will see the truth,
bosh, is already faking a injury so he wont feel bad for being cut from the usa team, the fact is they have too many ok players, nobody on their team makes me say, damn we gotta go up against so and so tonite, what are we going to do?
proshoota Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 6:22 pm
2/5 of the celtics starters wouldnt even make the raptors? are you kidding me? rajon rondo probably has such great potential with his speed and defensive ability. kendrick perkins is also a good rebounder that need to controls his fouls. Potential alone makes this guy worth a roster spot… McHale wanted Rondo in that deal instead of Gomes, Telfair, and possibly Gerald Green….. I would say Rondo could make any team in the NBA, both players alone just on potential.
Dustin Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 7:07 pm
I like Francisco Garcia as an up-and-coming glue guy. I’ve heard he’s a great off the court team guy, and on the court he does everything. Albeit on a piss-poor team.
Wow, tons of Raptors' hate Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 7:53 pm
and toronto just had a lucky year, see how kidd embarrassed ford, and bosh was a no show, and bargani has to find his position, and jorge garbageojo
yea i misspelled that one on purpose, he would fall in najera, kleinza, area.
^^^Watch out for them… The inability to accurately assess the Toronto Raptors is disappointing.
If you guys honestly think they’re going away, you are dead wrong.
They are a young, up and coming team.
Bosh, Bargnani, Ford, & Calderon is definitely a core worth building around.
Btw, I like Reynaldo Balkman as an energy guy. He has great hustle and makes big plays.
Francis Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 8:30 pm
I think Fabricio Oberto deserves a mention in this list also. He is a tireless worker, bangs on glass hard and always appears to be at the right spot at the right time. Like all Argentinians, he seems to bring energy and passion to a team and without his contributions, the Spurs probably wouldn’t have swept the Cleveland Cavaliers.
So I says, I Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 9:36 pm
I would like to say Tim Duncan is a difference maker….I can’t believe he was overlooked. I can’t believe Raja Bell was chosen over him. Am I the only one who knows basketball here?
dj hott Said,
August 15, 2007 @ 10:44 pm
so i says,
duncan is a superstar, these column really isnt difference makers, its key roleplayers, players that arent the go to man, or the 2nd man but still bring a spark to the team, whether its off the bench, shooting 3’s,playing d, or being a vocal leader. pretty much the players u dont expect to win the game, but can bring some energy or unexpected surge to a team and make them better, and i think boston will just be real fun to watch, u cant predict a whole new team to win it all, but at the same time they have 82 games to figure it out, and if they really want it watch out, and someone said rhondo, and perkins couldnt make torontos roster, ha, they both would be backups, so yea if your a backup for toronto, your not that good, the c’s really need a earl boykins, or maybe even damon stoudamire wouldnt be to bad, to go with the senior citizen differencemaker in reggie miller
MIk Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 12:43 am
The ultimate blue collar player? I don’t know how you can write this article without looking at the most blue collar team in the league and including half their roster - the San Antonio Spurs, whom also happen to be the Champions. Yes they have a superstar in Duncan, and yes TP get’s it done just as Pop asks but when you look at who they have and how they play, these guys bust a nut every night they play. One of the guys I am talking about is Bruce Bowen. This guy always has the task of guarding the most offensively polished player they’re up against and he does his job effectively - plus he spots up when open and hits the trey.
What about Manu? The kid never grumbles about playing time and is happy to start or come off the bench - team first - plus he’s an absolute beast on his day! Throw a role player like Horry in the mix who will throw that ugly foul if it needs to be done, or will pop ANOTHER long ball as time expires.
I’m not actually a Spurs fan but you have to give credit where it’s due. This team has been on the radar for years and will continue challenge for the top stop and a lot of that has to do with their blue collar play and the difference makers they have on the team. In fact, I’m shocked that you claim to cover the NBA and can’t even recognise a player of the NBA Champs.
frank Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 1:48 am
i think the next time, seth just needs to clarify more on the precise definition for the “glue guy”. when someone mentions a superstar like duncan, i think the topic of the blog is misinterpreted. why not nash or kg? or d wade? we only talking reserves? role players? superstars? one can make an argument for every player that has or hasn’t been said in this blog, except for the kandi man. on a side note, i would also request for the moron that called scottie pippen a role player to be banned from writing a comment ever again (HAHAHAHA). but i digress. i mean, mark madsen could be a “glue guy” if you want to really get into it.
kingsblade -
i understand what your saying about marion, but he’s the best all around player on that team with or without steve nash. wouldn’t you be a bit disgruntled too, knowing that you would be at least the #2 option on any team? “glue guy” or not, i still think that if you took him or nash off the suns, they would drop to the #4 or #5 spot in the west. we already know how they can survive without amare.
Himegs Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 1:58 am
Sorry, but the name that should be at the top of the list is Manu Ginobili. This is a guy who could be an all-star, but has accepted the role of a bench player for the good of his team. No other player…and I mean NO other player…of his caliber in the NBA would have made the sacrifice he has made without making any negative comments. (Or publicly demanding a trade.)
No one can deny his skills on both the offensive and defensive ends of the court. But, more than that, no one can deny his heart. He is one of the players in the league who can take a game over. And on those nights when the rest of the team just seems to be flat, Ginobili comes off the bench with so much energy and fire that the other players cannot help but follow. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that he also puts a lot of points on the board in the process. He makes defensive stops and steals. He leads and/or finishes on the fast break. And he buries the 3 when the team needs it most.
It is no coincidence that Robert Horry has so many rings, and that no team he has played for has ever failed to make the playoffs, or even lost in the first round. It is also no accident that Ginobili has three NBA championship rings AND an Olympic gold medal. (C’mon, did anyone really see Argentina winning gold? Does anyone really believe that they could have done it without Ginobili?)
It’s hard to imagine anyone being more of a “glue guy” than Manu Ginobili. And if the measure is a player who is willing to do all the “small things” his team needs, without expecting or demanding credit, it’s even harder to find a better example. But the thing that really makes him special is that he gets the job done, night in and night out. He’s a star in a role-player’s disguise. When he doesn’t at least get honorable mention in this kind of article, something is wrong.
TBA Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 5:32 am
Being from Europe, I have a question for the Americans on the forum:
Who will be the glue guys for Team USA? I guess Tayshaun Prince is an obvious choice, but who else?
Gonza Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 7:58 am
I think that the only player that i didn’t read in the comments and you didn’t write in your article (one of the best that you wrote) is:
JOSH HOWARD.
D-ROCK Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 8:29 am
I’ll try to be brief. Twiz, I want to apologize for responding to the Olowakandi reference. I don’t like being called names & I am no idiot!!!! LOL!!! You can never be too safe when idiotic comments are thrown out there, and I had to shut that one down.
I think most of us can agree on Snow not belonging on this list, at least not from his play from the last 4 years. Locker room prescence may be another story.
As for Grant Hill, we’ll see how his ankle holds up in a more uptempo styly before we call him the glue of the Suns. They have Raja Bell for that title, along with a few more names.
Now, to Norm & Rashidi. As an avid Bobcat fan, I have to correct the 2 of you on the glue of the squad. Matt Carroll is one helluva shooter (best on the team), but the glue guy is Gerald Wallace hands down. Although he is limited on the offensive end, he still lead the team in scoring last year, tops in the league in steals & boards for his position, and plays at least 3 different positions. And the reason for that (Norm) is because Baby Huey (Sean May) hasn’t done anything for the ‘Cats besides be a cheerleadar. I keep hearing how he “could” make a difference if he could stay healthy, but we know he spends too much time in the club for that to happen.
G-Dub - the true glue guy in every aspect of the word. I’d put him up there with David Lee as far as his importance to his squad.
space Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 9:37 am
ginobilli is more of a starter with a switched role in my opinion. whenever the spurs play, everyone knows who’s going to be on the floor in the fourth quarter. he is a definite glue guy, but i would say more of a second/third level because he actually gets plays to score and is given a complete green light to shoot unlike lots of the guys on the list. based on the criteria oberto definitely goes on the list and far above a manu-type player. he never got his due all season. my tops have to be: haslem, kleiza, walton, bowen [eventhough i am not a fan], harpring and joe smith for his entire career after GS.
on a side note what the heck is going on with araujo in utah?
[a potential difference maker]
he never got enough burn in either toronto or utah but seemed to be effective at times over the years. especially in the ‘07 conference finals when sloan gave him burn against duncan. he changed duncan’s game significantly eventhough the rest of the team was unprepared and the series was decided. he’s 6′11″, built like a truck and constantly aggressive. nobody is interested in picking him up? what’s the deal?
dickface Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 10:23 am
Raja Bell should be at the top of this list. He’s the best perimeter defender in the league and is also one of the top 10 three point shooters in the league.
So I says, I Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 11:18 am
OK fine, glue guy. Tim Duncan is clearly what brings the Spurs together. Clearly a big sticky glob that all the spurs are attached to. He’s a difference maker AND a glue guy. What more can I say? Tim Duncan.
So I says, I Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 11:19 am
And Lebron James. He makes the Cavs tick in my opinion.
greg Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 1:43 pm
Eric Snow does not belong on this list. He is a liability on offense due to the fact that he is no threat to hit a jumper, defenses can afford to double and triple Lebron. I believe he may add something in the locker room, but on the court, he is becoming a non-factor.
MATRIX Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 2:58 pm
lebron&d.jones for kobe bryant &brian cook
kobe would be happy,
lebron would be very shocked but is only 22 so being legal in a city like la would be nice, and even more market&endorsments, and an added legacy of laker greats, chamberlain, al-jabbar, kobe, shaq, magic, worth, m.cooper, elgin baylor, cedric ceballos, etc
and if toronto thinks glue guy jason kapono is enough there mistaken
new york new york, the city of dreams,whos there glue guy besides david lee, whom will avg lesser mins than last years 29.8, but hey he shot 60%
and averaged 10.4 rebs, he will find a way to succeed. But what kind of stats can we look from stephon marbury? and is it a dissappointment if
(whoms not on the list)averages more points then newcomer- al jefferson?
hey dj keep the party going.
MATRIX Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 3:00 pm
i meant if ricky davis(whoms not on the list) averages more than al jefferson?
Bjerke Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 3:47 pm
One name comes to mind; Bo Outlaw
david Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 7:28 pm
dj hott
what will make the rators not make the playoffs? the NEW YORK KNICKS(no heart) Boston(no bench) New Jersey(No concistancy) the raptors have a good chance to make the playoffs, im not predicting a ring in 4 years(Rapsfanforlife ) but they will come as close as the east finnals. in 2001 they had a team no where near as strong as they are now but a better coach nd they got to the second round only to lose to the sixers in game 7
2001 roster
Bosh, Chris FC
Calderon, Jose
Dixon, Juan
Ford, TJ
Garbajosa, Jorge
Graham, Joey GF
Humphries, Kris
Jackson, Luke
Martin, Darrick
Nesterovic, Rasho
Parker, Anthony
Peterson, Morris
2007
Charles Oakley
Morris Peterson
Antonio Davis
Vince Carter
Alvin Williams
Chris Childs
Dell Curry
Jerome Williams
2007 had more of a core like players who grinded the games out , the 2007team was filled with diffrence makers
david Said,
August 16, 2007 @ 8:37 pm
i mixed the years around my bad
matt Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 1:14 am
cmon guys… how can u go past steve francis… possibly tha greatest glue guy ever
matt Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 1:15 am
and dont rip on tha kandi man he was awesome bak in nba 2004.. along with narz mohammod.. n yes im sure i didnt spell that rite..
Crash Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 4:00 am
I think on the Pistons everyone is a role player. Some nights one guy will step up big a score a lot of points while the other guys will do the dirty work.
JBEAN Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 7:00 am
UM, how bout the whole spurs roster outside of Duncun and Parker.
nough said.
eNocH Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 8:01 am
i was surprised! ron harper wasn’t mention as role player, both for the bulls and lakers!
kwame could be a great player, he just doesn’t know how to utilize his potential!
David Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 11:20 am
IME UDOKA
space Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 11:20 am
some people are missing the point. its not about numbers or best at a particular strength, but the unheralded, hard working, never be the superstar guy who greases the teams wheels.
mr. sacrifice.
not the designated scorer, or best perimter defender, or hustle guy. the everything man who will never average more than 10 points a game in his career year.
space Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 11:23 am
the raptors?
they had their first playoff appearence in nearly a decade. they played the twice finals experienced, top 50 ever, jason kidd. they just need nba playoff experience. they’re good but still a ways away.
Yo Momma Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 12:33 pm
Ok, Rashidi… You said John Salmons is the glue on the Kings??????? I don’t know if you ever watched a game last year, but all of us Kings fans CRINGED every time that joke-of-a-player touched the ball. He is close to the best in the league at making spectacular plays… for the other team in a close game, and for us when we are getting blown out (half the time), and is a master of the turnover. The only reason that guy played was because Musselman had no idea what the hell he wanted to do with the team. Francisco will be the glue this year. He plays a lot like Matt Barnes does, but he’s a slightly better defender.
David Ashley Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 2:51 pm
The Rockets are lucky enough to have another “glue guy” in addition to Shane Battier in Chuck Hayes. He’s the kind of guy you have to watch a lot of to really appreciate. Both of them are happy to the dirty work. Hayes will have a long career and whomver he plays for will be happy to have him.
Scott Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 10:23 pm
Whoever said Marquis Daniels was inconsistent in Indy last year needs to look beyond the averages. Rick Carlisle jerked his minutes around like a rag doll. Can’t fault the player for not finding a groove under those conditions, look at Larry Brown’s Knicks experiment a couple years ago. He absolutely is a great glue guy, if you want numbers, they’re out there. If he gets minutes, he produces. Period.
P.S. He was starting to get minutes and numbers after the Harrington deal, and then promptly had a season ending injury. Go figure.
WTF Said,
August 17, 2007 @ 11:26 pm
WTF,
Seth Ferranti, how can you leave out Joe Smith and put in someone like Eric Snow?? He doesn’t even play anymore.
To be a difference maker Seth, you need him to play him on the court. Otherwise, they aren’t difference makers.
Got it?? (You must’ve posted this with about 2 minutes of brainstorming)
-Joe Smith
Houston Said,
August 18, 2007 @ 10:15 am
detroit has jarvis jayes now
detroit added 3 good wing players, hayes, rodney stuckey, and arron affalo
who is the center tho, and is boston better than detroit?
i say adrin bienes, of golden state 10pts 10rebs is a glue guy missing
he started some and was off the bench
like david lee
Hammond Said,
August 18, 2007 @ 4:52 pm
David– I agree with you on Toronto. A lot of people say Bosh didn’t play well against the Nets, but I think they’re forgetting that he played most of the season and all of the playoff with plantar fascitis, a very painful foot injury. Hopefully with rest (he left the Team USA practices to give his foot time to heal before the season starts), the continued improvement of Bargnani & Garbajosa, and the continued gelling of Ford, Calderon, & Parker, Toronto will win the Atlantic again. Odds-makers in Vegas have Boston at 5:1 to win it all and Toronto at 38:1, so they are definitely a nice dark horse to place a small bet on.
Hammond Said,
August 18, 2007 @ 4:59 pm
For you guys picking Shawn Marion and Duncan– Seth’s article is pretty clear. It starts off saying “solid but not spectacular, dependable but not a superstar.” To Seth’s list I’d add Bowen & Mike Miller. If Dalembert learns how to stay out of foul trouble, he could be there too. I’d like to add Iguodala, but he actally might be reaching the “spectacular” category already…
Mr.European Said,
August 19, 2007 @ 9:10 am
I don’t like Seth Ferranti’s way of writing.
Syd Said,
August 19, 2007 @ 11:40 pm
the ultimate glue guy is of course, David Lee!!!
Scott Said,
August 20, 2007 @ 12:50 am
Olowakandi? Gotta be a joke; the guy’s lazy, lazy, lazy, and conceited.
Ref: Kareem’s story about when he gave Kandi-fool some advice at a Clipper’s practice a few years ago; pathetic. What a perfect example of how not to live. Best glue guys ever: Happy Hairston and Nate McMillan for the Lakers circa 1972.
josh and dave Said,
August 20, 2007 @ 1:24 am
eric snow is crap…he was a decent PG with the 76ers in their push to the finals, but on the cavs his age and lack of skill have shown. He has no jumper and isnt the passer he used to be…he cant even play token D.
We think Bostjan Nachbar should replace him on this list. He has a sweet J and he blocked karl malone and tore his jersey…that was sweet!
croatiansensation Said,
August 20, 2007 @ 9:31 am
LETS GO RAPTORS!!!!!
Bosanac Said,
August 20, 2007 @ 4:11 pm
Ok heres one…THE 5 greatest role players since the late 80s (currently retired)…
-Toni Kukoc (6th man of the year, the Bulls’ third option)
-Jeff Hornacek (anyone other than Stockton-Malone was a role player on the Jazz, and Hornacek was a solid player)
-Dan Majerle (Just look at the last years of his career in Miami, definition of a role player)
-Ron Harper (after busting his knees as a star in Cleveland, he became a Bull and a Laker and had solid careers with both)
-Charles Oakley (Oak was never really a star, or the GO TO GUY, but he does the little things to win, and he’s a GREAT rebounder
Bosanac Said,
August 20, 2007 @ 4:14 pm
keeping in mind that role players are players that do the little things to win, sacrifice THEIR numbers for the better of the team, win/win championships wherever they play
Robert Horry, the best role player of all time?
who else goes on the list
djhott Said,
August 20, 2007 @ 5:09 pm
what about monta ellis, wally zerbiak, mo williams, j.terry,why not these guys?
djhott Said,
August 20, 2007 @ 5:09 pm
also jamal crawford
Basketbum Said,
August 21, 2007 @ 3:27 am
As a Warrior fan, we have to tip our hat to Matt Barnes. A Summer League pickup who became a starter due to key injuries and gave 110% both during the regular season and in the playoffs. But, without the glue of Stephen Jackson, the Warriors don’t go to the playoffs and don’t get the recognition they are getting presently. Jax is one of the best assist producing swingmen in the business. Between him and Baron, DANGER lurks with every possession.
Matt Said,
August 21, 2007 @ 3:33 pm
do you guys remember when someone spelled Franz Ferdinand’s name wrong and world war 1 happened…that was crazy
Matt Said,
August 21, 2007 @ 3:35 pm
Oh and Emre, its Shawne Williams not Shawn Williams smartazz.
Damien Said,
August 21, 2007 @ 6:12 pm
Yes you had some valid names, but what about the other guys who should have been on the list.
Gerald Wallace
Drew Gooden
AK 47
Quinton Ross
Just name a few others. I just like what the heart and energy that they bring to the game.
Trick Said,
August 21, 2007 @ 11:49 pm
Solid but not spectacular. Dependable but not a superstar. A finished product but no potential (excludes guys like Ryan Gomes, David Lee).A team player. A model of consistency. Sacrificing his personal game for the good of the team.
Players who fit these traits in today’s NBA
Anthony Parker
Jorge Garbajosa
Shane Battier
Raja Bell
Bruce Bowen
Andres Nocioni
Walter Hermann
Tayshaun Prince
Udonis Haslem
Andre Miller
Matt Harpring
Steve Blake
Bobby Simmons (when he’s not injured)
Kurt Thomas
Jason Collins (he does what he’s supposed to night in and out)
djhott Said,
August 22, 2007 @ 7:06 am
majerle and hornacek, rule
what about anthony mason
or charles smith
Steve-o Said,
August 22, 2007 @ 12:15 pm
All I can say is that I thought my head was going to explode with some of these comments. I mean really, some people just don’t understand what role player means. Currently, I’d say the true definition of role player is Battier. The guy will never make an all-star team, but was given the opportunity to make the US team; a team searching for that true “team” mentality. The guy is what every “team” needs, he’s the glue, the team player.
Bruce Bowen is in the same boat, given the same opportunity, despite so many critics questioning Colangelo’s thought process.
Haslem as well. Any kind of press following the Heat championship revolved around Wade, Shaq, and even Payton and Mourning. But it was Haslem that did the dirty work that every team needs, but not many people wanna do,and yet not recognition.
Thats an important point. If you make the all-star team, thats obvious recognition. Glue players don’t make all-star teams. Marion is one of the best all-round players in the league, and it is well known. Nash is #1, but I’d say Marion is #2. Similar to Jordan and Pippen. Pippen will always be considered backup because of Jordan, the G.O.A.T. But if you put any of the other greatest with Jordan and it would be the exact same. Pippen is definitely not a role/glue player. Kukoc, Rodman, Kerr, those are glue players. Bell, Barbosa, Thomas, those are role players for the Suns.
People need to look outside of each teams big three, no matter how low that third player is. Look outside of the spotlight, the players getting the most recognition.
Rookies should never be considered, as well as great players that take the lesser role. Some great players move on to lesser roles, like Hill with the Suns, or Miller if he plays again, but they’re not going to be defined as a role player when the finally retire for good. Its like Jordan with the Wizards, or Malone with the Lakers, or Miller if he signs with the Celtics. They’ll be remembered for being one of the greatest of all time for their respective teams, not as role players searching for that ellusive ring, or more greatness (like Jordan).
There are so many key role players in the NBA, and some that have recently retired. I remember one comment about how someone always wondered how one player always got a contract despite weak stats. That is so true. Players like Michael Curry(mention above), Bowen of course, Greg Buckner, Adrian Griffin. These guys still managed to find some full time work with teams, often starting. There’s even some young guys carrying the same mold: Quinton Ross (mentioned above), Ime Udoka (even though his contract is in limbo, started more than half the season for the Blazers), and Chuck Hayes (mentioned above). These guys define the role player. The ever important, but hardly recognized, role player.
So these are just my thoughts, just opinions. I know this isn’t a new article, but I’m just seeing it now and had to comment.
ps. Homers should never, EVER be aloud to comment on players on their team. I’m Canadian, but you don’t see me claiming the Raps are gonna win it all in a few years. I like them, but lets be realistic. I’m a Lakers fan (since ‘96), but I still know they are a LOOOOONG ways from bein a contender. Sometimes people just gotta be realistic about their team.
thats all.
o Wolf Said,
August 22, 2007 @ 3:46 pm
WHat about Kevin Garnett
Ed Said,
August 22, 2007 @ 10:20 pm
The Following were left off the list of good role players:
Bruce Bowen
Earl Boykens
Robert Horry
Jumaine Jones
Jason Kapono
Shaun Livingston
Paul Millsap
Eduardo Najera
Jannero Pargo
Hidayet Turkoglu
David Wesley
Aaron Williams
Bosanac Said,
August 23, 2007 @ 7:22 am
i wasnt a big fan of charles smith but anthony mason is the man…ive never seen so much backspin on a freethrow lol
Bosanac Said,
August 23, 2007 @ 7:32 am
jamal crawford is nice too, real smooth player, and i think what makes him a valuable asset is that he can distribute the ball as a ball handling G, but he can also rip it up scoring the ball….but his teams aren’t known for winning…granted, not his fault, but i think for him to be a major role player in the league, his teams have to win more and be known for winning
i always liked the knicks, but since ewing left, its been painful watching them…i think they’re making the playoffs this year, but definetly not doing as well as they should…maybe they should think about trading a backcourt asset (Crawford???) and getting some help at sf…balkman is solid from the bench, Q Rich should retire and not waste teams’ money or maybe go back to a team like phoenix where he can spot up and shoot threes (i dont think he is healthy enough to play more productively)
WHOS THE MOST UNDERRATED PLAYER/PG???
Luke Ridnour…is it just me, but when i watch Ridnour i get the impression he has all the tools to be the next Nash…he always keeps his dribble alive, dribbles and finishes well with both hands, he is a solid shooter, and a really really good passer. maybe this is his big breakout year
art Said,
August 24, 2007 @ 10:57 am
how about Larry Johnson