RED ALERT: Wyc & Trust Fund Steve On WEEI

[Way Of The Ray <wayray@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

They were on WEEI just now (4 - 4:45) and said some 
interesting things. Not that the best interview 
(re: host's knowledge of draft stuff - didn't have a clue), but 
good skepticism by Big Show people:

- Despite the ticket price increase, season ticket 
sales are higher than last year.

- They think they can come out of this draft with either
a good rebounder or good point guard but not both.

- That's right either a rebounder or PG: Better start factoring in
Collison,
West, etc. in those mock drafts.

- No mention of draft trades.

- One of them said he thinks Vin Baker can come back and "kick butt",
if he continues with his rehabilitation.

- Looking to build the team around All Stars Pierce and Walker
(And that's why they extended his contract - he he).

- No mention of Pavlovic or specific possible draftees.

- Not using the mid-level exception.

- Wished they had gone after Danny Ainge sooner (Like before the
2001 Draft and Vin Baker trade would have been good). 

- On a long term 5-year plan.

- Team over-achieved past two years, that's why O'Brien has three more
years. 

- Budgeted the team to be $16 million in luxury tax arrears 
for this coming season.

- Will start to see some luxury tax/cap relief after the 
upcoming season (that means you Eric Williams).

- Lots of Europeans in the draft will push down quality American
players.

- A deep draft for point guards (Hello Gaines or Banks).

- They had to move on Danny Ainge quickly, because he had another
suitor.

-  Larry Bird gave them the advice to be visible, "show up" when they
met 
Bird at the Hall of Fame and asked him for advice. 

- Never talked to Bird about joining their group as he was headed in 
a different direction.  

Copyright 2003 by Way Of The Ray
Feel free to forward this and reprint, as long as credit is given.