| |
 Fratello and Lakers would be perfect fit
Posted: Wednesday June 02, 1999 01:17 PM
Mike Fratello was both shocked and disappointed at being fired as the Cavs coach on Tuesday, but he's hitting the job market at the right time. Fratello becomes an immediate candidate for the coaching openings in Orlando and Washington, although sources say he's not under consideration in New Jersey. But the most intriguing possibility for Fratello is the Lakers' job. Los Angeles needs a defensive-oriented coach, and Fratello fits that bill. He's also far more experienced than interim coach Kurt Rambis, and he would be much less expensive than Phil Jackson, which is an important factor, since Lakers owner Jerry Buss has never been known to break the bank for a coach. Fratello and the Lakers just might be a good fit. Pre-draft shuffleThe wheeling and dealing for draft day position is well underway. Toronto has two first round picks -- fifth and 12th -- and is interested in dealing both choices to Chicago for the No. 1 pick of the draft. The Raptors would use the spot to grab Maryland's Steve Francis, whom they would love to pair with Vince Carter in an all-highlight-film backcourt.
The Bulls might be more willing to listen if the Raptors also include Tracy McGrady, the young Toronto forward that Chicago GM Jerry Krause likes a great deal. Vancouver, with the second choice of the draft, is loaded with young players and would be willing to trade the pick for veteran help. So far the Grizzlies have been offered Cleveland guard Wesley Person and the Cavs' choice, the seventh pick of the first round. If the Cavs can't move up, they'll hope that Miami of Ohio forward Wally Szczerbiak is available at No. 7. Parting ways?Miami Heat point guard Tim Hardaway denies rumors that he is at odds with coach Pat Riley, but it's clear that the two didn't always see eye-to-eye during the season. Shortly after the lockout ended, Riley wanted to fine Hardaway and other members of the team for being overweight, but the Players Association successfully blocked the move. But after his weak performance in the playoffs against the Knicks, Hardaway's future with the Heat is uncertain. His contract expires at the end of next season, when he will be 34, and Miami has to decide whether to trade him or offer him an extension. Hardaway wants to stay in Miami, but if he shows up at training camp with extra pounds again, he won't get his wish. Sports Illustrated senior writer Phil Taylor covers the NBA and appears regularly on CNN/Sports Illustrated and CNN's This Week in the NBA.
| |||||||||||||||||||
Copyright © 1999 CNN/SI. A Time Warner Company. Terms under which this service is provided to you.
| |||||||||||||||||||
