No Nate Friday Against Hornets
posted: 11/9/2006 at 10:34 PM
Something was missing from Trail Blazers' practice on Thursday morning at the practice facility in Tualatin. It actually took me a few minutes to notice it, I'm ashamed to say (in my defense, the team was practicing on court #2 which is quite a distance from where I was sitting. And, Blazers PR guru Mike Hanson was blocking my view, as usual). I then asked out loud, "where's Nate?" It was then explained to me that his family had suffered a loss, and he was flying to a funeral. I'm sorry for coach Mac and he'll be returning to Portland late on Saturday night. It can never be said that our leader doesn't have his priorities in order.
McMillan will miss Friday night's game against the New Orleans / Oklahoma City Hornets at the Rose Garden. He'll be replaced on the sideline by lead assistant coach Dean Demopoulos. The team is in capable hands. If you recall, when Nate was chucked from a game last season in Minnesota early in the third quarter, coach Dean led the team to a big win over the Timberwolves. So, we can say that he is 1 and 0 as head coach. Well, I guess technically he is a one-half and 0. Either way, Demopoulos has been an assistant to McMillan for a long time, and was busy putting in the game plan for the game against the Hornets.
Two things happened on Thursday night that were positives when looking at the next two home games. The Hornets lost their first game, and the Dallas Mavericks, who visit the Rose Garden on Sunday, got their first win. I didn't want to face an unbeaten team, or a winless team. By the way, how crazy would you have had to have been before the season, to think after four games that the Hornets would be 4 and 0, and Dallas would be 0 and 4? Over an 82-game schedule, things have a way of evening out, so I wouldn't read too much into either record at this point.
With that being said, how much can we read into the fact that the Blazers are 3 and 2? Even though Portland is getting some mentions in the national media as being one of the biggest surprises here in the first week, nobody seems to think it will last. It's almost being looked at as the Blazers having stolen their three wins. I wouldn't go that far, but I would have to admit that the Seattle and Minnesota wins could have gone either way in the final seconds. Still, learning how to win is a huge step towards becoming a competitive team. So, Portland clearly deserves a good amount of credit.
We've talked many times about the fact that the Blazers have been doing this with a less-than-healthy roster. Five key players were out on Wednesday when they beat the Lakers, including the 2nd and 6th picks in the NBA Draft. We're still not sure if Brandon Roy will return for the game against the Hornets, and we think LaMarcus Aldridge will see his first NBA action within the next 4 or 5 days. Raef LaFrentz is getting healthy, and should return within a week, and Joel Przybilla may not make the trip back east that begins on Tuesday at Minnesota. Things are getting better in the injury department, and that's my point.
The Blazers did announce on Thursday that Darius Miles will be undergoing knee surgery. It'll just be a scope and not the much more serious microfracture surgery, so that's good news. It's still not great news, because it means Darius will miss probably the next month and a-half or two. I talked to him before the Laker game, and he said it's killing him not being able to play. He loves what's going on with this team and would love to be a part it. That will have to wait.
Aldridge went through his second full-contact practice with the team today. It was a fairly light practice, but LaMarcus took part in a spirited three-on-three game following practice. It was Aldridge, Stephen Graham, and Dan Dickau going against Sergio Rodriguez, Travis Outlaw, and Martell Webster. I never saw who won the game, but I did see LaMarcus doing some impressive things. You're going to love this guy. He's a better shooter, with better range, than you're probably expecting. He's got some seriously long arms and will really add to the front line. He also runs the court as well as any player the Blazers have, big or small.
Thursday night it was another episode of the award-winning radio show,
Trail Blazers Courtside, presented by L.A. Weight Loss. One host was noticeably absent- me. Brian Wheeler and Mike Rice handled things very well. I took the night off to be with my wife, who will be giving birth to our second child very early Friday morning.
Our first child, Jack, was an off-season baby, and was born in June. This one, a girl (no name as of right now, but that'll change by Friday), is an early-season baby. The timing wasn't as ideal in this case, but who the heck cares? I know she doesn't. It does work out well however, because Friday night's game is radio-only, so my attendance isn't mandatory. And, I won't be there. I will return for Sunday's game against Dallas, which is on FSN. Then, I'll be leaving with the team early Monday morning as we head out for the 4-game trip. It won't be easy to leave, and I'm not looking forward to it. But, I'll be with my second family- the team, TV crew, and my fellow broadcasters. Their support will make it easier. And I mean it when I say we're a family. I hope that comes through to all of you. I work with great people.
So, what am I doing posting a blog when I'm heading into the stressful world of childbirth in several hours? Well, I'm nervous, and working is the best way to take the edge off. I'm not going to be able to sleep tonight anyway. You probably won't see a blog tomorrow night, so understand. I'll be at the hospital. But, my wife is cool enough that she'll demand we listen to Wheels and Tone as they call the game on the radio. I'll post a photo when I get the chance. Thanks for all the comments and well wishes you've already sent. I'll just be getting an assist. My wife is the MVP of this game. Perspective is a wonderful thing.
Check out interviews from Courtside:
FoxSports.com's Mike Kahn
MP3 ||
iTunes PodcastTrail Blazers Assistant Coach Dean Demopoulos
MP3 ||
iTunes Podcast
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Congrats on the new arrival, MB.
Oh yeah, and my condolences go out to Nate and his family.
Huge congratualations, Mike! I'm super excited for you. Daughters are fantastic. Mine is two, and she's been so much fun, i wish i could go back and do it all again. If she's not the best thing to ever happen to the world, she's definitely the best thing ever to happen to me. You're a lucky man, Mike. Best of wishes to your family.
As for your other family, Mike, the chemistry between all of you is obvious. When us fans see and hear how much fun you all are having, it makes the experience that much more exciting. Your guys' enthusiasm is contagious.
I wish the organization would be half as liberal with long lucrative contracts in regards to its broadcasting teams and TV crews as it has been for certain players. I mean, hey, you guys don't even count against the salary cap.
I would like to throw out some support to Nate and his family, and give condolences for their loss. I hope coach retires in the Blazer family. He was my pick for Coach of the Year.
My condolences to Coach McMillan for his loss. There is never a good time for losing a loved one. May you and your family be consoled and comforted in this time.
My congratulations to you and your wife Mike. Child birth is a wonderful reminder that the world starts afresh each day. May this day and the days to come be blessed for you and your family.
Blazers - nice start. Wins over the Lakers are worth double here.
Mike -
Wow. I can't believe you posted again. I understand, though. Congrats on the birth of your daughter. I wish you and your family the best. I'll be there cheering in your place on Friday. Hopefully some more people will come out to the game and Roy can play some good minutes. Either way, I am sure we'll win...
Much appreciation,
bradley.
Congratulations Mike! I wish you, your wife, Jack, and your new baby girl all the best. GOD BLESS AND HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY!!
Congratulations Mike! your 6th men are behind you.
My sincerest condolences to the McMillan family. The loss of a family memeber can be one of the hardest things we ever deal with in our lives. It really puts into perspective the difficulties you might face on the court.
I think the Blazers will do fine without Nate. If anything they should play better in support of their coach.
This season has been truly eye opening in terms of the difference a coach can make on a young squad. Mac has brought a level of maturity and respect for the staff that I haven't seen in years. Truly an example to his peers.
Congrats to you Mike on your new edition. We all wish you and your family the best, and we're proud to be introducing another Blazer fan to the world.
Tonight against the Hornets will be tough. But as the Oregonian pointed out, as good as Chris Paul is, Jarret Jack is no slouch, and actually has better numbers in college. And didn't we just beat a 4-1 team by shutting down their youngest all-star?
Oh, and Mike, I know you'll be too wrapped up for the next week to blog, but if you get a chance, you should respond to the comments on my blog; mosblazerblog.blogspot.com
Congrats, Mike. Being there for your childs birth is one of the most important events a family can have. Its a true blessing. The pre-game jitters fade quick. time for action. good luck,
jans
Congrats, Mike. Being there for your childs birth is one of the most important events a family can have. Its a true blessing. The pre-game jitters fade quick. time for action. good luck,
jans
Congratulations Mike! Please relay that to your wife and family. Also please relay condolences to Nate and his family. We will miss both of you. As you said, you work with your second family. I am pretty sure that applies to a lot of us. During the season we all (true Blazer fans) see the team (including, but not limited to the broadcasters)as our second family. What a life! Lol, I wish I wore your shoes. You are so fortunate to have a Great job, and 2 great families. Congratulations again.
congrats on the baby mike!
Just wanted to send out huge congratulations to you Mike! I am sending out huge condolences to Nate for his loss..My heart goes out to him. GO BLAZERS!!!!! I am so excited to listen to tonight's game! I wish I could be there in person though!
Hey Mike it's your main man right here. I know you have heard this about 200 times already today but Congradulations on Gabrielle. The picture that you sent me is awesome and she is so cute. Hopefully this weekend or next week I'll get to come over and see her. Anyways, that is so bad what happened to Coach's family, it's very sad. Also, I just read what happened with Roy during the Hornets game that sucks big time now that he will be gone for up to 2 weeks. Well, RANDOLPH FOR MVP!!! Hope to see you soon!
Just wanted to say congratulations on your healthy new baby girl Mike!Also my best goes out to Nate and his family. It's always difficult to deal with the loss of a loved one and I hope good things for the both of you.
Comment on hornets win.
At first I thought that this was the point that I would have to come to reality about the talent on this team. Then they pulled off another gut it out win . Not sure what to make of that.
I will say this.
That Wheeler guy at first I was not impressed with his wrestleing background but I must say that he has become exceptionally good at describing what is happening on the court.
I'm a bit embarrased to say that a radio feed of a game had me smileing for a good five minutes after a game but it did.
Good work team blazers all of you.
Climb that golden latter
Sr. McMillan aunque no lo crea Tenerife existe y nos preocupamos por Sergio Rodríguez. No piense que su negativa a ponerle en cancha nos deja indiferentes. Dicen que el malogrado Fernando Martín debutó contra Seatle por que había periodistas españoles en la grada, así que, si quiere viajaremos a Estados Unidos para ver como usted apuesta por el nuestro, el dorsal número once de su equipo.
Para jugar en los Blazers, no creo que sea necesario formarse en la University de Gonzaga (Dan Dickau), Georgia Tech (Jarrett Jack) o en la de Washington (Brandon Roy), todos ellos centros universitarios norteamericanos. No creo tampoco que sea imprescindible ser negro porque Dan es blanco como las cotufas. Descartamos lo de blanco y quiero pensar que también descartamos lo de Rookie, ¿verdad?.
En su haber como técnico tiene más derrotas, 246, que victorias, 237, ¡piense los motivos coah! Cierto es que en Noviembre de 2004 le eligieron como el entrenador del mes, tras su racha de trece victorias y sólo tres derrotas con además nueve triunfos consecutivos. Espero que aquello no fuera “flor de un mes”. En 2005 me cuentan que fue el tercer mejor entrenador del año. No dudamos de lo gran entrenador que es.
Se está pensando enviar a Sergio a la D-League. ¿Para qué? ¿Para que destaque en esa competición que se le queda larga y vuelva al Rose Garden con los mismos errores? Pierde balones, pues trabájele esa faceta y no lo ignore. En el resto es bueno, muy bueno, suma puntos, pasa, rebotea, roba y es más rápido que el noventa por ciento de los Blazers. Y si lo quería para la NDBL lo podía haber dejado en Phoenix. No olvidemos que los Suns fueron los que eligieron a Sergio Rodríguez en el Draft de Nueva York.
El seleccionador nacional español, Pepu Hernández a dicho, “me preocupa la situación de Sergio” por si lo quiere tener en cuenta. Rodríguez metió a España en la final del Mundial 2006 de Japón. Aunque creo que usted lo pudo ver en tierras niponas.
Parece mentira que usted, formado en la Universidad de North Carolina, la misma que el jugador más grande de la historia de este maravilloso deporte, no apueste por un joven con talento y baloncesto innato. Usted apuesta por jóvenes valores y eso me deja mas en fuera de juego para pensar lo que puede estar pasando con el “Spanish Chocolate”. Pregúntele más a Kevin Pritchard (ex Cáceres en ACB, la mejor liga de Europa), uno de sus asistentes, por el único campeón del mundo que tiene en sus filas.
Soy testigo de su baloncesto como jugador, “Mr. Sonic”, llevaba el 10 de los Seatle con orgullo, era atrevido y se rodeaba de buenos jugadores como el gran Xavier McDaniel. Usted fue base y sabe que jugar en la mejor liga del mundo no es fácil. Tenga en cuenta a este joven de veinte años de El Ortigal, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain.
Si es necesario le llamaremos el 03 de Agosto de 2007 para felicitarle por su 43 cumpleaños. Sin miedo Don Nate, confíe en Sergio el le devolverá con baloncesto del bueno su apuesta.
go blazers
Mike:
Children are the greatest joy, except for grandchildren. Congrats.
I am a great fan of Martell Webster who has loads of talent and potential but I was very disappointed in the way he acted during the Laker game. My wife and I bought the Blazer special and enjoyed the game from nosebleed seats. Martell made a 3 pointer then missed, missed again and his shoulders slumped, his head went down and his walk slowed to a crawl and then more so after he missed his next 3 pointer.
Is he still hurting from his back injury as he is not driving to the basket? His mood seems very up and down and hopefully maturity will help that -- is someone working with him on that now?
OrygunRod
First off, congrats MB. Awsome for you and the family.
Second, my condolences for Nate and his family, been there just last year myself.
Man, what more can be said of the team? They are playing as a team....finally! That game was as a good as a loss after the first quarter. After they got it close at the end of the third quarter, I just knew deep down that they were going to pull it off. They have three come from behinds already this season and that will give them confidence and lead them to believe that they can rally at any time.
Randolph is rocking right now. He's figured out the low post is his home. Like I said before, if he continues to score in the low post and pass out of doubles, we'll win many games.
Jarret had a nice game against Paul and still has his number.
Travis. Dude you can be the man, and I keep hoping you will be. You have the tools, just bring the elan like you did Friday. 6 blocks! Are you kidding me? Keep it up.
I'm looking forward to Aldidge playing Sunday. I hope he amazes everyone, because I think he is the future at the 5 and will be the best at the position since Sabonis.
Roy get better quickly, we need you.
Keep scrapping Blazers!
WOW!!! The Ist quarter brought thoughts of last year, but I told myself, "Remember Minnesota", I wasn't dissapointed. BLAZERS RULE.
Our baby was born on Wednesday morning. How exciting! Also a little girl. :)
Regarding the possibility of Brandon having surgery, here is an interesting little poll for you:
http://www.basketballboards.net/forum/showthread.php?t=315907
Keep up the great blogging, Mike!
PBF
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