Through all the boo's and angst that was bestowed upon the Supersonics by their fans, and for all their fraility the past two years the rooster is about to Croo.

     The NBA will hold the draft June 20th or there abouts and the one thing that is obvious to all the GMs and Team Presidents is the coupe that Seattle can come away with this year.  Through trades that were mocked and frowned upon, and players who were sent packing with no rhyme or reason at the time, has now come to pass as a genius move.  This years draft will bare the fruits of those moves like no other in the Sonics history.   This year they no only control the draft but have enough first round picks to put together a very formiable team for years to come.

     With six picks (that's 6!) in the first round out of the first 58 Seattle has a chance to build a winner from a also-ran quicker then any other club.  Besides having two first team All-Rookie players already on the roster in Durant and Green.  With a up and coming point gaurd in Earl Watson, Seattle gets not only the Second Pick, which could end up as either Rose or Beasley, but also the 24th, 32nd, 43rd, 50th and 56th picks.

     With a need at power forward Beasley seems the natual choice here.  The twenty Fourth pick can get them a center to help bring along Sene.  Then it gets interesting for they can then dictate the draft with trades or swaps all to benenfit themselves for this year or even next year if they feel the talent is thin.  Few other teams have this flexiability in this draft.

     The City of Seattle should be crying foul, they have supported this team in thick and thin, that is the true fans, andnow that they are destined to move at a time which will more than likely bring the Sonics back to the forefront of the better teams.

     NBA Draft, I think not, more and more it appeares to be the Seattle Summit.

     It seems like since the beginning of the NBA a star gaurd comes along and transforms the game as we know it.  With either their sharp shooting or there unique passing ability or their size, they change the way opposition had to change their defenses to stop these hardwood demons.  They help coaches of whichever era to not only rethink their offense, but when they were forced to gaurd these mega-stars they had to come up with inventive defenses.  Such as various zones, box and 1, 1-2-2 and so forth. 

     Because of their overall game these guards from the '20's, '30's,'40's'50's, '60's, '70's, '80's, '90's, and 2000 to 2010 Not only stood out but had coaches and general Managers searching for the next one like them. 

     The following are simply my picks for these individual decades.  Enjoy adding your own versions or playmakers.  Though these will be hard to top.

1920-1929: Some of the true pioneers of the position, though the NBA was still just an idea there were many professional league playing around the states Mostly in the Eastern States.  During this time Semi-Pro league sprouted out everywhere and college player were permitted to play in them.

Hery Genert - Was a brillant defender and a scorer, but his defense was known to shut out multiple players thoughout a game.  Love slapping the backboard on his layups - a sort of taunting.  His defense resulted in the term take away (Prior to Steals) of which he was a master of.

Honorable Mention: Joseph (Poison) Brennan- A scorer unmatched in his era who played for various team thoughout any given year.  Said to be one of the first players to make $100 dollars a game.  In one year Won Championships in 4 Seperate league earning MVP twice.

1930-1939: During this time slot offenses were still pretty much sets and passes were thrown into a teams big man. Until these gaurds proved motion and a deft touch from the outside could foil a collapeing zone defense.

Nat Holman - An original Celtic, his play at the pivot help create the motion offense. his ability to score and distribute the ball were uncanny and unmatched in his day.  His play made the early Celtic team almost unbeatable.  His play created a scoring position out of the pivot where previously it was strickly a passing postion.

Honorable mention: Bernard (Bennie) Bogman- Another Defensive minded shooting gaurd.  He was one of the first gaurds  to expose weak dribblers averaging over 8 steals a game!  With a deadly set shot from out side range 18' or so.  Few took shots outside 15'.

1940-1949: The Game is changing due mostly to Holmans passing excellence, every team now searched for the next great ball handler.  Shooting acuratcy was figured as a bonus.

Joe Falks- With team looking for good ball handlers, Joe set the league on it's ear by foresaking the two handed set shot  for a one hand released "jump shot".  His ability to shot over not only opposing gaurds but just about everyone helped speed up the offensive sets.  His shots were seldom blocked and was one of the first to be accredited with a quick release.

Honorable mention: Robert E. (Bob) Davies- The first guard to be given the nickname "Houdini" known by all as "Houdini of Harrisberg" he quickly advanced the passing game in basketball beyond just the bounce pass.  Credited with the drop (leave) pass on breaks to a following teammate.  Helped create todays version of the fast break.

1950-1959: The first true golden age of guards in the NBA.  As hard as it was to try to seperate the stars of this era, I've decided to include two honorable mentions.    These gaurds were not only great passers but excellent shooter leading their teams in scoring something few guards consistantly did. 

Bob Pettit- The first modern day deep threat in the NBA, a pure shooter who was so acurate it was said he not only made a shot blindfolded from the top of the key but made 3 of 4!.  Named as All-Star MVP more times than anyone.  Played his whole career for the Hawks.  Once rumored that Red Aurbach wanted him so bad he would give up 3 starters.

Honorable Mention: Bob Cousy- Known both as the "Wizard" and "The Houdini of the Hardwood" He made the Famous Boston Celtics unstoppable on the break.  One of the true first showman with both behind the back passes and between the leg passes.  Was the only white man ever invited to join the Globetrotters.  Aurbach's loss was also his gain with Cousy blossoming into a bonifide star.

Honorable Mention: Ed Macauley a nice blend of the two guards mentioned above.  A deadly shooter and acurate passer.  His trade from the Celtics was not only for 2 stars but for the rights for the celtics to draft Bill Russell.

1960-1969: The scoring era stikes it big! But an all around game was needed from this position.  The guards from this era not only surpassed almost all bigmen in scoring, but were defensive players as well.  Thought to be the best of the best for their time.

Oscar Robertson- As much as it pains me (being a Laker fan) I give the nod here for a variety of reason, but mostly because of his all round game.  Oscar was the only player in NBA history to average a triple double for the year!!!!  Enough said!

Honorable Mention: Elgin Baylor- One of the original gutbug players.  His game was played above the rim.  A forefather to the Dr. J's and David Thompsons.  It was said he could touch the top of the basketball backboard, few gaurds tried shots with Baylor fronting them.  One of the first to use the floater shot (via Paul and Parker in todays game)

1970-1979: The sixty and seventy had so many outstanding guards I took liberties here in placing these two in the seventys to accomendate the level of great guards in these two eras. Also have placed again two honorable mentions.

Jerry West- Mr. Clutch himself, or as many suspect the logo for the nba.  There may of never been a more pure shooter of the jump shot then Mr. West.  Always an All-Star and even a MVP in a the Championships series which the Lakers lost.  Forever remembered for this 63 foot shot during the finals which was all net.

Honorable Mention: Walt (Clyde) Frazier - The cornerstone of the Knickabockers run during the seventy.  Quick and able to throw up a shot from any angle.  His defense helps place him here over other '70's greats.

Honorable Mention: Pete (Pistol) Marovich - You simply can't have a list of all-star guards without adding the pistol.  The phase "he never met a shot he didn't like" was attributed to him along with the line "His range is anywhere after he enters the arena".  Before the 3pt shot came to be in the NBA, Marovich lived on the outside forcing opposing defenses to extend to up to 25' from the basket.  Talk about speading a defense.

1980-1989: With the league struggleing a star was needed to recapture the fans imagination.  When one did it did it with style and grace but above all he was tall.  Bringing to the NBA a tall point guard which there weren't any effiecient ones at the time.

Irving (Magic) Johnson- Not since Cousy has there been someone who could distribute the ball better.  Magic brought back the no-look pass and was able to thread a pass anywhere at any time during a game.  At 6'9" He brought about the tall gaurd era.  Magic's overall game had teams thinking diffrently when when looking for a point guard.  He help bring Showtime not only to the Lakers, but the NBA as well.  Brought back the triple double.  And created post up plays for guards?!

Isiah Thomas- A quick and swift defender and a fearless shooter.  His overall game may of lacked the showmanship of Magic's, but Thomas could equal the results.  Help bring Detroit back into the limelight with his play.  The leader of the bad boys.

1990-1999: This Era brought about the extreme in the gaurd position.  From posible one of the greatest of all-time to a headly team player and assist artist.

Micheal Jordan-  Their wasn't a more electrifing player to capture the mass audience attention then Mr. Jordan.  His uncanny ability not only to make a shot, but thrived at having the ball in crunch time and seemingly always coming through.  Not only did the Bulls three peat, but after a two year retirement  threepeated again!!!

Honorable Mention: John Stockton- To some mister invisible, Stockton was one part of the most feared give and go tandems in the league (with Karl Mallone).  One of the greatest assist artist in NBA history.  Stockton had a way of quietly turning in double doubles in points and assist, but his results were felt in helping Utah to prominence.

2000-2010:  Though there are still a few years left I can comfortably name these two as the dominate guards of this era.

Kobe Bryant- Far and away probably one of the few best along with Jordan to ever play the game.  Mobile, quick and deadly in creating his own shot.  Being from either beyond the arc or driving the lane.  Almost unstoppable one on one.  He and Jordan will always be 1-2 or 1-1 when mentioning all time gaurds.  Both were All-Defensive selections.

Honorable Mention: Steven Nash-  A great floor leader and clutch shooter.  His heady play and overall basketball I.Q. helps distance himself from others as the next best.  That and his years of service as an all-star and multiple league MVP places him ahead of such players as Wade, Kidd, Parker and Paul.

     In the year of the big name trades every contender tried it's hand, while other stood pat and prayed.  With more big names switching team then in recent history, most of the main contenders played one up with the rest of the trade frenzy playoff teams.  The following is a breakdown of who was helped and who will be left behind.  For those team who basically stood pat, my guess is there will be changes come the of there playoff runs.  Others who traded wildly may be at it again if their playoff runs come to an early end.

     First the teams that stood pat.  For the life of me I'll never understand the reasoning for this when help was only a phone call away.  San Antonio with it's banners still fresh decided they had enough to continue their hold on the throne, BIG MISTAKE!  As the playoff go on, their lack of a solid 3rd and 4th option will show.  Detroit who has been on top in the east for so long will also fall to this sernario.  Denver also stood pat, but had there finger on the trigger but failed to make a trade.  Toronto made their moves before the season picking up gaurds Kapono and Delfino and also failed to added any additional fire power.  Washington  who also stayed pat but their lack of defense would of been helped if they would of picked up a solid inside defender.  As it is look for them to be one and done in this years playoffs.   The last of the six teams who thought their teams were good enough are the 76'ers  Though they picked up Miller last year and added pre-season acquisition Reggie Evans they too will be one and done in the playoffs this year.

Though San Antonio and Detroit may last till the finals in their respective divisions, but will fall.

     Orlando picked up Rashard Lewis in the pre-season and added Maurice Evans in one of the most lopsided trades in recent history.  The outlook doesn't look pretty for the Magic but Toronto isn't exaltly a power but will be good enough.  Look for Toronto in seven.

     The Lakers added 3pt specialist Ariza and in the biggest move added Pau Gasol.  Giving themselves four good offensive weapons, with Bryant, Gasol, Odom, Bynum.  Though Bynum is likely out for the playoffs Fisher still has enough spark to be a fourth option.  Lakers in a sweep over Denver.

     The Celtics who it can be said started this trade frenzy when they came to terms with Allen and Garnett to team with Pierce, also sensed additional moves needed to be made and brought in Cassell and Posey to help bolster their offense.  Celtics in a sweep.

     New Orleans who formed most of their current team last year signed Peterson in the pre-season and later signed Bonzi Wells to help their inside game.  With Paul  coming into his own look for the Hornets to challenge for the top spot in the west.  The Hornets in six over the Dallas.

    The Hawks picked up Bibby hoping for some direction, but his days are more then likely behind him and can be closed down with an aggresive defensive scheme.  Which won't help Atlanta in it's hopes for advancing.  Celtics in a sweep over the Hawks     

Likewise the Dallas Mavericks with the addition of Jason Kidd have looked more lost then usual and may of picked up the wrong point gaurd for their team.  As good as Kidd is his supporting cast still would rather play one on one then as a  team.  I look for them to be upset in the first round by New Orleans in six.

     Phoenix fans are banking on O'Niel to get them over the hump, along with pre-season acquisition Giricek, but the long and short of it is that Shaq is good only for limited stretches though he will open up things for Stoudamire his fatigue factor will show as the Suns try to get by the Spurs in their first round.  I like the Spurs in 6.

     The Jazz picked up Price in the preseason, but added Korver for a little insurance in case the shots stop falling for their stars.  Their team is young but there moves will only get them past the first round.  Utah in six over Houston.

     Houston decided they only needed Bobby Jackson, but with Ming down and McGrady having to carry the team they just don't have enough fire power to get by Utah.  As they will most likely fall in six.

     Which brings up to the wholesale team of the playoffs the Caverliers.  Obviously trying to help out their star James, Cleveland went bananas in the trade market.  Bringing in three starters and a couple role players hoping they had the right mix to try to advance beyond the second round.  They started by Adding Wally Szczerbiak, Lalonte West and Devin Brown then followed up with Joe Smith and Ben Wallace.  The team has the talent but can they play together and jell in such a short time.  Cleveland still has to show it can win on the road but should win the first round against Washington in seven.

     In the other game not mentioned look for  Detroit over the 76'ers in 6.

     This year look for a change to the old ways with the Lakers and Celtics playing for the Championship.  No matter what the outcome.  The Lakers had the early jump on next year with Bynum and Ariza waiting in the wings.  If the Lakers manage to win the Championship look for another frenzy of trades both in the pre-season and during the next season to try to play catchup to the Lakers.

     With the NBA wanting to increase the age of a prospective draftee, while not seeming to put a hinderance on his financial future or place a disturbance in the balance of the draft by eliminating possible selections the solution, though a little intricate can be accomplished where it is a win-win-win situation for all.  The third win mentioned includes a third party not always mentioned in regards to this subject, the CBA.

THE SOLUTION

     First the NBA should (with it's revenues from it's vast marketing and television contracts) form a alliance with the CBA and the NBA's Developmental League making them a virtual MINOR LEAGUE to the NBA which it currently tries to be.  This would allow a Team through restructuring of the current players agreement (Benefits will be stated below for the players union) through their union, to be sent for further development if necessary, to any club (Govern though the CBA) to rehab or develop further the skills needed to be productive in the NBA.  The NBA would also give an additional roster spot or two for draftees, only with defined allotments (for time a person can be sent down, and total amount of times a player can be sent down thoughout  any season with a maximum of a two year window). 

     This would give the NBA teams flexibility with their rosters and add insurance in the case of an injury to a draftee.  It also allows the CBA a financial windfall to help stabilize their league and would increase attendance whenever high draft picks are intergraded within, improving their leagues skill level and interest in it as well.

     Second the NBA would have to stucture a first signing formula that would be beneficial to both the teams and the players without causing the PLAYERS UNION to balk.  This would also place flexibility in the Salary Cap within the league and for teams.

     A workable example is as follows:

     First year signings would be for no shorter than four  years, and no longer than six.  This would ensure a player who if he doesn't work out some years of financial security to either return to college or to persue another way of live. 

     Upon signing, what ever the amount the following structure of the contract would be as follows: 

     The amount of the contract would be split in half with the first half being paid out as follows: 

     The NBA would structure a four year payment increments for the amount of the halved contract total with increases from the first to the secord and so on until the end of the fourth year.  Signing bonuses would be paid in full in his first year in addition to the halved contract amount.  Not only would this process insure financial security for the player for a minimum of four years regardless it he is cut or faced with a injury, it also relaxes any animousity  vertern players sometimes have with draftees who make more than they do or as much without ever dribbling a ball on the court yet.

     The remaining Half of the contract would be spilt again (making it quarters from the original contract and would be paid out as follows:

     One quarter would be place upon signing in a type of Taxfree IRA account for the player, this would insure some financial freedom for the player after the initial four years of the contract and assist in his future career or retirement.  This could only assist the PLAYERS UNION in the future as toward the possible assistance these players may need.

      The remaining quarter would be paid out in equal amounts in in the second thru four year of the contract.

     On a six year contract the original halved amount would follow the four year structure with the remaining two years paid in a 40/60 spilt in years five and six.

     After the fourth year any contract could be renegotiated where as the balance of any remaining year beyond the initial four would be paid in full upon the signing of a new contract.

EXAMPLE: 6 year 20 million Dollars, with a 2 millon signing bonus

First year say  $800,000.00 plus the 2,000,000.00 bonus total $2,800,000.00

Second year   $1,200,000.00 plus $1,000,000.00 (Balance of fourht Quarter of contract divided thoughout the second to sixth years) total $2,200,000.00

Third year        $1,600,000.00 plus $1,000,000.00 total $2,600,000.00

Fourth year      $2,000,000.00 plus $1,000,000.00 total $3,000,000.00

Fifth year          $2,160,000.00 (40% of the balance of the remainder of the initial halved contract) plus $1,000,000.00 total  $3,160,000.00

Sixth year         $3,240,000.00 (60% of the balance of the remainder of the initial halved contract) plus $1,000,000.00 total $4,240,000.00

     With the player also having a intrest incurring taxfree IRA started in his first year of $5,000,000.00 at say 13% annual rate would give him 5,650,000,00 toward his retirement or change in career collateral, after 6 years.

     This would give the NBA team flexibility with there roster without hindering themselves if a draftee is injured or needs further development.  When a team feels a draftee needs to develop or keep sharp his skills he can then be sent to the CBA/Developmental league to insure himself getting playing time.  It would help ease the Existing Salary Cap and allow for the existing 30 day signings, while a player is either recovering from a injury or "Sent down" (Draftees only) to get playing time or enhance his skills. 

     This would allow the existing age limit to continue and assist both the player, the NBA, and the CBA to thrive, without player development or financial concerns playing a part in the draft equation.

     A byproduct of this may probably actually keep student atheletes in school longer if they feel that they would more then likely be playing in the CBA then on the bench in the NBA, hence the player would rather hone his skills at their repective Universities.  Of course where financial straights prevail to some students with talent this would be beneficail to ensure financial securety for them regaurdless where they play.