Question: The team concept seemed to disappear this year, and it seemed like Artest was the main guy who thought he was the go-to guy at the end of the game, but he wasn't very clutch. What do you think of a trade of Artest and Kenny Thomas for Zach Randolph? The Kings could then go after Rashard Lewis or Desmond Mason as the small forward. You gotta love a lineup of Bibby, Martin, Lewis or Mason, Randolph and Miller. I've heard rumors that Portland was shopping Randolph and needs a small forward. Works well for both! (salary-wise too)
-- King This, Walnut Creek
Answer: Not a bad idea, and definitely not a bad lineup. And everyone knows communication between Portland and the Kings has never been a problem. Although while Randolph certainly doesn't have Artest-like baggage, he comes with his own issues and problems away from the floor.
-- Sam Amick
Question: The successor to Eric Mussleman should be Scott Brooks. The team responded to him when he filled in for those two games this past season, and he has the resume for the job. Charles Barkley has stated that he loved playing with Brooks in Philadelphia, and he paid his dues with George Karl in Denver. I played my college ball for Carroll Williams at Santa Clara, and met Scott in the Newport Beach Rec League in the mid '90s. Petrie should give him a shot.
-- John Stege, Aptos
Answer: You're not the only one who thinks highly of Brooks. He has a good reputation, good credentials, and seemed to have a good feel and rapport with the players this season. Of course being the top guy is something altogether different, but he could get a look. Brooks isn't the only Kings assistant waiting to see what's next. The entire coaching staff is in limbo while Kings basketball president Geoff Petrie is scouting in Europe. Petrie said their futures will be determined when he returns, though many - if not all - of them have two-year contracts that will be paid nonetheless.
-- Sam Amick
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