re: Walker

["Gene Kirkpatrick" <gkir@tjc.tyler.cc.tx.us>]

Josh, good statement on Walker and the point.  I don't agree.  I think
we should go for a point guard if one is there, viz. Tinsley.  A good
point should play the tough defense and be at the top of the key when
a steal is made, or be ready to direct a break from a long rebound. 
He should also put pressure on the entire defense by threatening to
drive the middle and dish.  If he can hit the floater or the open big
man, those are high percentge shots and good shots for offensive
rebounds.  Also, he should be our third scorer from the above and from
long distance.  We have to mix and match our points now to get all
that.

Walker could still play some point forward, but he would become one
of the two main options along with Pierce, would stay closer to the
basket, and provide better rebounding support inside.  Plus, he should
be playing less than 40 minutes a game.  His three point shooting
would max out at five instead of ten.

If we go with a committee at point and at center, I don't think we
are as strong as with a first-rate point or center.  Our best option
in the draft will be to upgrade at point, I think.  All this is said
without having seen the team much this year.  I like what Brown,
Palacio and Herren bring, but I'd like to see all that in one player
and keep one of the above as a back-up.  As for Vitaly and Battie,
keep them unless we can upgrade at their position.  Blount won't have
much trade value, but he looks to be quite valuable to us.

Enough.  Hope we surprise tonight.  Gene