NBA
BASKETBALL: WHY
WOULD WEBBER LEAVE THIS? By AC YOUNG
June 18, 2001
Just looking
at the basketball players surrounding him, Chris Webber would have trouble
finding another team that suits him as well. He is complimented by all
his teammates, he's the main option on offense, and he's on a team that
runs and allows him to use his athleticism. There are plenty of other teams
that would want him, but if Webber leaves as a free agent to join one of
them he may not be the impact player he is now.
If there is
one thing Webber hasn’t been suited for in the NBA, it is playing fulltime
at center. Golden State and Washington both needed him in the paint because
they had few options. Sacramento has not only Divac but also Scot Pollard
to bang against the league’s big-men.
But Webber
wants the low post on offense. There may be problems on other teams where
they have another player who also wants to be there. That is not a problem
with Divac. He is capable all the way to the three point line. In the zone
defenses next year, Divac will be even more valuable. Vlade will be effective
passing it into Webber, giving them a versatile high post-low post offense.
Teammates who
can shoot outside is something Webber needs to keep him from being triple-teamed.
Led by Stojakovic, the Kings have plenty of people who can score from long
range. Christie, Jackson, Turkoglu and Barry are all dependable, while
Jason Williams has a more streaky shot. These players also have above average
passing skills.
Sacramento
are a good team to watch, and appear fun to play for. For the Kings, Webber
starts some fast breaks and finishes others. The Kings allow Webber to
use all his skills. But there will be plenty of offers from around the
NBA.
Houston, Detroit,
Chicago and the Clippers may have cap-space to sign Webber. None of these
teams have the chance that Sacramento do to challenge for the NBA championship.
Orlando, as
always, have been mentioned as a possible destination for free agents of
value. Webber would be sharing the ball with McGrady and Hill, and would
most likely have to spend a lot of time at center.
High profile
teams like New York, Portland and maybe the Lakers could also come into
consideration. A sign-and-trade would have to be agreed to here.
Where Webber
winds up will be the top news of the off-season. But will he stay with
a team that helps him achieve his best or will he look elsewhere ?