More from RealGM

Author Archives - Andrew Perna

Andrew Perna Archive

Deputy Editor

Perna assists with the content on RealGM, while contributing many of his own original pieces. He also co-hosts RealGM?s Radio Show on a weekly basis.

RealGM Columnists

Problems Mount For Hibbert
Roy Hibbert began the season as a Most Improved Player candidate, but his steep decline since Dec. 1st has been precipitous.
Andrew Perna | Jan 14, 2011

In Need Of Defense
The Spurs have raced out to a league-best 29-6 record through the first two-plus months of the season, but Gregg Popovich isn?t convinced that his team should be considered great.
Andrew Perna | Jan 6, 2011

Dunleavy, Rush On Same Page With Shared Role
Brandon Rush and Mike Dunleavy both average 30 minutes per game and have become interchangeable at shooting guard in Jim O?Brien?s starting lineup.
Andrew Perna | Dec 21, 2010

What Happened To The Hornets?
The Hornets were 11-1 after their first 12 games, but have mysteriously struggled ever since the Jarrett Jack trade, which looked like a win at the time.
Andrew Perna | Dec 15, 2010

On What Side Of .500 Do The Pacers Belong?
The Pacers began the week with a .500 record, but have they improved enough to be considered a legitimate .500 team over the course of an 82-game season?
Andrew Perna | Dec 14, 2010

Opening Act Doesn't Reveal True Heat
If the Heat can nearly beat one of the league?s elite teams by playing really only one good half, then it?s going to be very hard to beat them in a series of any kind.
Andrew Perna | Oct 27, 2010

Grading The Deal: Four-Team Trade Wakes NBA From Hibernation
The Pacers and Nets were the big winners in Wednesday's four-team trade that sent Darren Collison to Indiana and Troy Murphy to New Jersey.
Andrew Perna | Aug 11, 2010

RealGM's All-Vegas Teams
DeMar DeRozan, Greg Monroe and Gary Neal joined John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins on RealGM's First Team from the Vegas Summer League. Who made the second and third teams?
Andrew Perna | Jul 19, 2010

Notes From VSL (Sunday): Thabeet, Teague, Bledsoe, Sanders & More
In their final chance to make an impression in Las Vegas, Gary Neal, Morris Almond, Luke Babbitt, Dominique Jones and Al-Farouq Aminu shined.
Andrew Perna | Jul 19, 2010

Notes From VSL (Saturday): Eyenga, Pondexter, Aminu & More
As the 2010 Las Vegas Summer League winds down Lester Hudson, Leo Lyons, Samardo Samuels, Cheikh Samb and Alonzo Gee impressed on Saturday.
Andrew Perna | Jul 18, 2010

Notes From VSL (Friday): Monroe, Jordan, McGee, Wall, DeRozan & More
Greg Monroe, Jerome Jordan, JaVale McGee, John Wall and DeMar DeRozan shined on Friday.
Andrew Perna | Jul 17, 2010

Notes From VSL (Thursday): Wall, Jones, Lawal, McGee, Lin & More
Gary Neal, Gani Lawal, JaVale McGee, Jeremy Lin and Dominique Jones impressed on Thursday in Las Vegas.
Andrew Perna | Jul 16, 2010

Notes From VSL (Wednesday): Budinger, Fields, Aminu, Patterson & More
In his notes from Wednesday's games, Andrew Perna talks Chase Budinger, Landry Fields, Al-Farouq Aminu, Eric Bledsoe, Patrick Patterson and more.
Andrew Perna | Jul 15, 2010

Notes From VSL (Tuesday): DeRozan, Lawson, Caracter, Ed Davis & More
DeMar DeRozan, Ty Lawson, Derrick Caracter, Ed Davis, Patrick Patterson and Jordan Hill all had notable outings in Tuesday's Vegas Summer League action.
Andrew Perna | Jul 14, 2010

Notes From VSL: Cousins, Monroe, Bledsoe & More
DeMarcus Cousins took on Greg Monroe, while John Wall and Eric Bledsoe faced off in Monday's action from the Vegas Summer League.
Andrew Perna | Jul 13, 2010

Grading The Deal: Celtics Keep Paul Pierce On $61M Deal
Paul Pierce gets to retire as a one-team player and Boston avoids looking cheap by refusing to make a long-term financial commitment to a cornerstone on the wrong side of 30.
Andrew Perna | Jul 4, 2010

Early Contracts Could Soon Become Unmovable
The contracts signed in the first day of free agency may be unmovable as the NBA moves into their new collective bargaining agreement.
Andrew Perna | Jul 2, 2010

Breaking Down Media Day For The 2010 NBA Draft
There were no Joakim Noahs or Jonny Flynns this year, with a pair of centers bringing the most life today to what nearly every player described as an ?exhausting process.?
Andrew Perna | Jun 23, 2010

Why The Spurs Need To Deal For Amar?e
San Antonio was the NBA?s textbook franchise in the 2000s, but they need to take a chance on Amar'e Stoudemire heading into the new decade.
Andrew Perna | Jan 27, 2010

30 Teams, 30 Resolutions For 2010
The year 2010 is already a few days old, but it?s not too late for each of the NBA?s 30 teams to set goals and/or resolutions for the New Year.
Andrew Perna | Jan 8, 2010

Rookie Review, Version 1.0
Brandon Jennings and Tyreke Evans have received most of the ROY attention, but a host of first-year players, including DeJuan Blair have been successful in spurts.
Andrew Perna | Dec 21, 2009

Shuffling Expectations On Jennings
If you watch Brandon Jennings hoping only to see a scoring explosion, you?ll miss a lot of what he brings to the court.
Andrew Perna | Dec 9, 2009

Grading The Deal: Rondo Gets $55M Extension
Rajon Rondo and the Celtics took a risk averse approach by agreeing to an extension just before the deadline.
Andrew Perna | Nov 4, 2009

2009-10 Season Preview: Toronto Raptors
The Raptors are a vastly improved team from where they ended the 08-09 season and will compete for the fourth slot in the Eastern Conference.
Andrew Perna | Oct 8, 2009

Grading The Deal: Iverson Answers Call From Memphis
Believe it or not, Allen Iverson to Memphis is a fairly low-risk move for both sides.
Andrew Perna | Sep 9, 2009

The Best Team Money Can Buy?
Adding a third competitor, Andrew Perna and Chris Reina attempt to orchestrate the greatest team $57.7 million can afford.
Andrew Perna | Aug 12, 2009

Grading The Deal: Artest And Ariza Swap Places
Will the Lakers or Rockets get the better end of the free agent maneuvering of Ron Artest and Trevor Ariza?
Andrew Perna | Jul 8, 2009

Grading The Deal: Rasheed Goes To Boston
Rasheed Wallace will help Boston remain among the leading contenders for the NBA title, but the signing further places the onus on the present.
Andrew Perna | Jul 6, 2009

Consensus NBA Draft Grades
The dust has settled on the 2009 NBA Draft, but it will still take months (if not years) before a true assessment of the class can be discerned.
Andrew Perna | Jun 29, 2009

Running Draft Commentary From The WaMu
Stay tuned throughout the night as Andrew Perna and Jason M. Williams comment on the 2009 NBA Draft.
Andrew Perna | Jun 25, 2009

Winds Blowing Through NBA Draft Media Day
It?s said every year, but this year?s NBA Draft truly is unlike any in recent memory. The reasons were plainly visible on NBA draft media day.
Andrew Perna | Jun 24, 2009

Spurs Get Younger On Wing With Jefferson
Richard Jefferson is once again on the move during draft week.
Andrew Perna | Jun 23, 2009

Consensus 2009 NBA Mock Draft, V2.0
With the draft roughly two weeks away, we are starting to see some shuffling among the top-ten picks. Believe it or not, Ricky Rubio isn't in the second slot.
Andrew Perna | Jun 8, 2009

RealGM's Panel On The 2009 NBA Finals
Who are the difference-makers? The most fascinating single storyline? How can each team win? Which team will win?
Andrew Perna | Jun 3, 2009

Not Everyone Wants The Same Finals
A matchup between the Lakers and Cavaliers in the NBA Finals would be ratings gold, but a battle between the Nuggets and Magic would be just as entertaining.
Andrew Perna | May 29, 2009

Consensus 2009 NBA Draft Rankings, V1.0
Believe it or not, the 2009 NBA Draft is less than two months away. We have used some of the most respected mock drafts out there to create a ranking list heading into draft season.
Andrew Perna | Apr 27, 2009

As Economy Tightens, Blazers Get Most Out Of Roster
Conservative spending is now the name of the game in the NBA, and the Blazers paid the least of any other team per win this season.
Andrew Perna | Apr 20, 2009

RealGM's 2009 NBA Award Winners
There wasn't a single unanimous winner in our award voting, but LeBron James, Derrick Rose and Dwight Howard were runaway winners for three of the most prestigious honors.
Andrew Perna | Apr 16, 2009

Are Good Foul Shooters Better In The Clutch?
The NBA's best foul shooters improve their efficiency in clutch situations at an even better percentage increase than normal shooters.
Andrew Perna | Apr 7, 2009

Assessing The MVP Conversation
This year's MVP conversation includes more names than last season, but should Wade and Howard steal votes away from Duncan, Paul, Kobe and LeBron?
Andrew Perna | Mar 19, 2009

The Race To A First Round Exit
With a little less than a quarter of the season remaining, nine teams are alive in the race for the Eastern Conference's last three playoff berths.
Andrew Perna | Mar 11, 2009

NBA For MS: Part IV
It's MS Awareness Week, which marks the two-year anniversary of Andrew's 'NBA for MS' campaign. Thankfully, progress is being made thanks to the efforts of many around the country.
Andrew Perna | Mar 4, 2009

Grading The Deal: Magic Land Alston In Three-Way
The Magic have now doubled down on the Jameer Nelson injury by acquiring another point guard in Rafer Alston.
Andrew Perna | Feb 19, 2009

Scouting Cancer With Matt Meiners
Matt Meiners isn't your average NBA scout. Over the last fourteen months he has been working for the Clippers and dealing with a very rare form of cancer.
Andrew Perna | Feb 8, 2009

How Much Does Each Win Cost?
Last season, we debuted a very simple calculation to determine how much each team pays per victory. Here's a look at how teams rank at the midpoint of the season.
Andrew Perna | Feb 2, 2009

RealGM's 2009 All-Star Reserves
Chris Bosh was the leading vote-getter from the East while Chauncey Billups and Dirk Nowitzki were unanimous selections out West on our staff All-Star reserve team.
Andrew Perna | Jan 29, 2009

Rookies Gaining On Rose
Brook Lopez, O.J. Mayo, Russell Westbrook and Marc Gasol are in the top-five amongst rookies behind Derrick Rose.
Andrew Perna | Jan 16, 2009

Holiday Hangover?
A number of star players and their teams appeared to suffer from a holiday hangover on Christmas Day, turning in subpar performances on Dec. 25.
Andrew Perna | Jan 3, 2009

An NBA Letter To Santa
Your loved ones aren't the only ones in dire need of gifts this holiday season. Each of the NBA's thirty teams -- including the Celtics and Lakers -- are in need of a little something from Santa.
Andrew Perna | Dec 20, 2008

Five-Week Rookie Review
Wednesday night marked the completion of five weeks of action in the NBA this season, which means it's time to check on the rookies again.
Andrew Perna | Dec 4, 2008

Coaching Instability
Jerry Sloan is the longest-tenured coach in the NBA, and thanks to a growing rate of instability in the coaching ranks, he's part of a dying breed.
Andrew Perna | Nov 24, 2008

Two Week Review
The NBA season is now more than two weeks old, which means that a majority of the league's rookies have taken the court at least seven times.
Andrew Perna | Nov 14, 2008

Grading The Deal: Iverson To Detroit
The blockbuster trade between the Pistons and Nuggets could easily be a success for both teams, but Detroit can recover quicker from potential disaster.
Andrew Perna | Nov 4, 2008

Everyone Has Great Expectations
Every team has great expectations entering the new NBA season, but what will each team need in order to reach their goals?
Andrew Perna | Oct 30, 2008

K.J. Continues Assisting In Phoenix
Kevin Johnson is in the midst of a race to become the mayor of Sacramento, but he?s still busy helping out in Phoenix.
Andrew Perna | Sep 11, 2008

Become A Real IBL GM
OwnMyTeam has gotten their hands on a new International Basketball League team, thanks to the tremendous support of IBL Commissioner Mikal Duilio.
Andrew Perna | Aug 7, 2008

Grading The Deal: J.O. Crosses The Border
The Raptors believe that the combination of Bosh and O?Neal will provide them with the best frontcourt duo in the game today.
Andrew Perna | Jul 8, 2008

Running Draft Commentary From NYC
Stay tuned throughout the night as Andrew Perna and Jason M. Williams comment live from the WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Andrew Perna | Jun 26, 2008

Computing The Finals
Andrew computed a bevy of statistics relating to the 2008 NBA playoffs, leading him to predict that the Lakers will win the title in six games.
Andrew Perna | Jun 3, 2008

The Law of Diminishing Marginal Returns
You might be wondering - what does this economic concept have to do with the NBA? Well, it just so happens that some teams are looking for too much out of their players at the end of games.
Andrew Perna | May 1, 2008

The Cost Of Wins
Three months ago Andrew debuted the simple statistic he calls 'cost per win'. See how the end of the season figures look as a certain lottery team stands near the top of the list.
Andrew Perna | Apr 25, 2008

Ending The MVP Conversation
As hard as it has been to determine who really is the NBA?s MVP this season, in the end selecting Chris Paul could be considered a ?big easy?.
Andrew Perna | Apr 14, 2008

NBA For MS: Part III
Of all Andrew Perna has done during his time with RealGM, nothing compares to the relationships and difference that has been made through the site?s acceptance of his ever-growing ?NBA for MS? campaign.
Andrew Perna | Mar 27, 2008

Dissecting The Streak
Some pretty interesting things happened while the Rockets were busy winning more games in a row than six NBA teams have won all season.
Andrew Perna | Mar 19, 2008

Horford Steals The Spotlight
Al Horford may be undersized in the paint on a nightly basis, but he is the one who has the rest of the NBA overmatched in the race for this season?s Rookie of the Year award.
Andrew Perna | Mar 10, 2008

Blogging The Bayou: The 2008 All-Star Game
Stay tuned throughout the night as Senior Writer Andrew Perna blogs his way through the 2008 All-Star Game in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Andrew Perna | Feb 17, 2008

What A Difference A Decade Makes
The late 90s were great to both the Pacers and Knicks as they were playoff fixtures in what was then a strong Eastern Conference. Today, neither team seems destined to even make the postseason.
Andrew Perna | Feb 7, 2008

The Perna All-Stars
Everyone has an opinion on who they believe deserves a trip to New Orleans. How does your team compare to Andrew Perna's?
Andrew Perna | Jan 26, 2008

The Cost Of Wins
With the season almost half over, we can now look at which teams are paying the most for each win they tally.
Andrew Perna | Jan 17, 2008

Voting Bosh
Chris Bosh sits a little more than a million votes behind LeBron James and nearly 1.2 million behind Boston?s Garnett. But he has launched his own voting campaign and is asking RealGM for help.
Andrew Perna | Jan 16, 2008

Christmas Wish Lists For All 30 Teams
No NBA team is perfect. Okay, the Celtics are darn near close, but every one of the league?s thirty teams could use at least some help from Santa Claus this year.
Andrew Perna | Dec 20, 2007

Calculating Scoring Efficiency
When calculating the points-per-shot average for the NBA?s top fifty scorers in 2007-08 (through Dec. 12?s games) there were more backcourt players (35) than frontcourt performers (14).
Andrew Perna | Dec 13, 2007

Not Kidd(ing) Around
It?s been roughly a year since the Philadelphia 76ers shipped future Hall of Fame point guard Allen Iverson out of the Atlantic Division and into the Western Conference. Is Jason Kidd next?
Andrew Perna | Dec 6, 2007

Perna +13
Using the NBA?s 2007-08 salary cap figures, Andrew Perna has assembled what he believes would be the best team within the $55.63 million limit.
Andrew Perna | Nov 30, 2007

Changing Of The (Forward)
For the first time since 1998, Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan will not be the starting forwards for the Western Conference. KG, of course, is in Boston and Duncan is now mysteriously listed as a 'center.'
Andrew Perna | Nov 14, 2007

Perna Predictions For 2007-2008 NBA Season
Rarely does the expected occur in professional sports (i.e. the Rockies, Packers and Warriors), so check back at the end of the season to see just wrong (or prophetic) my predictions turn out to be.
Andrew Perna | Oct 27, 2007

My Wishes For The ?07-?08 Season
The new season is fast approaching. Soon a whole new storybook of basketball lore will be written before our very eyes. Some of the main characters will be unchanged, while others will become central parts of this story for the very first time.
Andrew Perna | Oct 8, 2007

The NBA For MS: Part II
With the 2007-2008 season around the corner, Andrew Perna is resuming his quest to launch an 'MS Night' in an NBA arena.
Andrew Perna | Sep 4, 2007

In Beantown They Trust
You?ll be hearing about the number seventeen a lot more than usual in Beantown this season, and you?d better drop every ?r? in casual conversation. After all, Paulie Pieh-ce has Kevin Gah-nett on his side this season.
Andrew Perna | Aug 15, 2007

Grading The Deal: Garnett To Boston
At first glance this deal looks slightly one-sided. The Celtics are going to experience success before the Timberwolves, but if Minnesota has to deal Garnett ? this is the trade they want to make.
Andrew Perna | Jul 31, 2007

The Emerald Green
If you think Kevin Durant was the best thing the Seattle Supersonics got out of the NBA Draft you might be right. But if you think Durant was the only thing gem they unearthed last month, you?re wrong.
Andrew Perna | Jul 26, 2007

The Magic Man?
Basketball insiders used to consider Rashard Lewis one of the League?s most underrated players, but with a max contract, he may now become one of the NBA?s most overpaid.
Andrew Perna | Jul 11, 2007

Running Draft Commentary From MSG
RealGM's Jason M. Williams and Andrew Perna are camped out at the media hotbed that is the NBA Draft. Make sure to check back here all night as they'll be supplying you with running commentary on everything going on at the WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden.
Andrew Perna | Jun 28, 2007

The Rookie Peep Show
Before you giggle at the title of my latest column stop to think what Wednesday afternoon?s media session with the lottery players in New York City was all about.
Andrew Perna | Jun 28, 2007

Lottery Spotlight: Julian Wright
Julian Wright's skills and physical features (including a huge wingspan) make him look like a lock to be a top-ten selection. But will his shooting make him the last man sitting in the Green Room?
Andrew Perna | Jun 26, 2007

Lottery Spotlight: Jeff Green
Jeff Green has the type of all-around game that NBA scouts fall in love with every June, but seems to have the drive and leadership to back it up as well.
Andrew Perna | Jun 26, 2007

Lottery Spotlight: Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant is an extremely versatile offensive threat, who can move with great ease for a man of his size. He treated his entire season as one big marquee performance, becoming the first freshmen in NCAA history to be named Player of The Year.
Andrew Perna | Jun 25, 2007

Lottery Spotlight: Al Horford
Al Horford is an excellent inside player on both ends of the floor and has an impressive knack for shotblocking. He could have a similar immediate impact as Emeka Okafor has had in Charlotte.
Andrew Perna | Jun 21, 2007

Lottery Spotlight: Mike Conley, Jr.
Mike Conley is not only the best passer in this year's class, but quite possibly the quickest player as well. His intangibles are terrific and he will make an excellent NBA player.
Andrew Perna | Jun 20, 2007

Road To The Finals
With the Spurs and Pistons both in their respective conference finals it was forecast that we?d experience what some called ?another boring NBA Finals.?
Andrew Perna | Jun 5, 2007

My Lottery Ticket
For many people, the Lottery is the unofficial start of the offseason. It sets up the framework of the draft itself, and allows armchair GMs from around the world to pencil in what players they think fit best at what slots.
Andrew Perna | May 23, 2007

The NBA For MS
Grant Hill's wife Tamia is one of many people who suffer from MS, a disease that is also close to the heart of Andrew Perna who is lobbying for teams to host 'MS Nights.'
Andrew Perna | Apr 27, 2007

It's A Good Thing
Between the Raptors quick turnaround, the Bobcats steady improvement and the West's three-pronged attack of the Mavs, Suns and Spurs, the 2006-2007 regular season saw some excellent storylines.
Andrew Perna | Apr 16, 2007

I Dream Of Conley
Andrew Perna is not alone in thinking that it may have been Mike Conley, and not Greg Oden, who was the best basketball player on the court during this year?s Final Four in Atlanta.
Andrew Perna | Apr 4, 2007

Fan Globalization
Just as business has since the advent of computers and the beginning of the Information Age, sports have become a global presence.
Andrew Perna | Mar 26, 2007

Fear And Loathing With Bracketologists
Whether you?re doing it for fun or some serious cash (don?t worry we won?t tell anyone), it?s important that you consult a bracketologist or two before penciling in your picks.
Andrew Perna | Mar 12, 2007

Forbes For Sports?
Kevin McHale is the best GM in all of sports? Billy King is third? There?s a human aspect to this job that cannot be quantified that the very smart guys at Forbes must have missed.
Andrew Perna | Mar 5, 2007

Grading The Deals: A Very Quiet Deadline
The NBA trading deadline passed in a New York minute, believe-it-or-not, without any deals involving the Knicks or even the Nets.
Andrew Perna | Feb 23, 2007

In Summation Of A Weekend In Vegas
The events this year had the feel of a true league-wide effort. While watching the hours upon hours of coverage this weekend Andrew Perna decided to reflect on what he saw as he took it all in.
Andrew Perna | Feb 19, 2007

In Celtic Time
Andrew Perna gives you a rundown of all the things that have passed or taken place since the Celtics last won a game.
Andrew Perna | Feb 12, 2007

Rethinking The All-Star Selection Process
Andrew Perna has dusted off his phantom administrative powers once again and provide David Stern and his cronies with some advice on how to improve the league?s annual festivities.
Andrew Perna | Jan 29, 2007

Grading The Deal: Boykins Dealt To Milwaukee
Thursday's trade which sent Earl Boykins and Julius Hodge to Milwaukee for the Bucks? Steve Blake, makes a decent amount of sense. Both teams were in a rush to make the move, for a variety of reasons.
Andrew Perna | Jan 11, 2007

Bosh Reflects On 2007 RealGM Award
?It was a weird feeling to find out that I was named the winner," said Chris Bosh when RealGM told the Raptors' franchise player that its users voted him as the player they would most want to build a team around.
Andrew Perna | Dec 29, 2006

WWRRD: What Would RealGM Readers Do With Iverson?
Nearly 100 people submitted their trade proposals to RealGM for a potential Allen Iverson deal over the past few days.
Andrew Perna | Dec 19, 2006

The NBA?s Biggest Miscues
With this week's announcement that the league will revert to the traditional leather game ball effective January 1st, here is a collection of other notable NBA air balls.
Andrew Perna | Dec 13, 2006

Q & A With Channing Frye
A member of the All-Rookie First Team last season, Frye has maintained his position as the future of the Knicks this season, despite some early struggles in his sophomore season.
Andrew Perna | Nov 24, 2006

A Bleak Opener At The Garden
?The most uninterested opening crowd he had seen in twenty years,? said one fellow media member about the Knicks' home opener versus Indiana.
Andrew Perna | Nov 6, 2006

One-On-One With Dajuan Wagner
After not playing a single minute of competitive basketball for almost two years, Dajuan Wagner was signed by the Warriors and wants to make a big contribution to the club. He spoke with RealGM on the eve of the regular season.
Andrew Perna | Nov 1, 2006

NBA 2K7 Realisms
After playing NBA2K7 for the better part of the weekend I couldn?t believe how realistic 2K Sports had made the game. Between Brandon Roy being the best rookie, Mark Cuban getting fined and Jamaal Tinsley getting hurt, it is very, very realistic.
Andrew Perna | Oct 31, 2006

Championship: Kobe Vs. Bosh
Kobe Bryant represents the older generation of stars in the NBA, while Chris Bosh is a member of the league?s ?new school? of talent. Given the opportunity to start your very own NBA franchise with just one of these two studs, which would you choose?
Andrew Perna | Oct 18, 2006

Final Four: Kobe Vs. KG
Our second Final Four match-up features Minnesota?s Kevin Garnett and Los Angeles?s Kobe Bryant. KG and Kobe will battle it out over the next few days for the chance to represent the Western Conference in the finals.
Andrew Perna | Oct 16, 2006

Final Four: Bosh Vs. Wade
The first of two Final Four match-ups in our inaugural ?Be an NBA GM? contest pits Toronto?s Chris Bosh against Miami?s Dwyane Wade. Bosh was taken ahead of Wade back in 2003, but is he still more valuable to an NBA franchise?
Andrew Perna | Oct 13, 2006

Third Round: Brand Vs. Kobe
As the voting stands now Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, and Kevin Garnett will advance to the next round, which of these two will join them?
Andrew Perna | Oct 12, 2006

Third Round: Dirk Vs. KG
German Dirk Nowitzki looks to make it into the final four of our ?Be an NBA GM? contest, but American Kevin Garnett has other ideas. Which of these two all-stars would you rather start a team with?
Andrew Perna | Oct 11, 2006

Third Round: Wade Vs. Jermaine
Today?s match-up presents an interesting battle. Would you prefer to anchor your team with a strong interior presence like Jermaine O?Neal, or with an elite playmaker like Dwyane Wade?
Andrew Perna | Oct 10, 2006

Third Round: Bosh Vs. Iverson
The third round of our ?Be an NBA GM? contest opens up with a battle between two extremes in the Eastern Conference. Chris Bosh is a long and tall power forward for the Toronto Raptors, whose career is just beginning, while Allen Iverson is one of the league's best scorers.
Andrew Perna | Oct 9, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Kobe Vs. O.J.
The final match-up of the second round features the pride of Hollywood, Kobe Bryant, and arguably the best high school basketball player in the country, O.J. Mayo. Kobe was once a young phenom, much like Mayo, and looks to reach the elite eight of our ?Be an NBA GM? contest.
Andrew Perna | Oct 8, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Brand Vs. Allen
Ray Allen and Elton Brand are two of the NBA?s classiest players. Neither has the bad reputation some of the remaining players in our contest possess ? not mentioning any names (Ron).
Andrew Perna | Oct 7, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Carmelo Vs. Garnett
Friday?s match-up features two of the NBA?s most marketable faces. Carmelo has become the toast of the Mile High city, while KG has brought ?big ticket? basketball to Hockey land.
Andrew Perna | Oct 6, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Dirk Vs. Paul
Thursday?s match-up features Dirk Nowitzki, a legitimate NBA icon, and a rising star in second-year point guard Chris Paul. Dirk is a better scorer at this point, but Paul has shown strong leadership abilities and could give the German veteran a run for his money.
Andrew Perna | Oct 5, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Wade Vs. Oden
High school phenom and new college freshmen, Greg Oden took out Washington?s all-star guard Gilbert Arenas in the first round of the contest by an impressive margin. He looks to advance further in our ?Be an NBA GM? contest today, when he takes on Dwyane Wade.
Andrew Perna | Oct 4, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Jermaine Vs. Okafor
Jermaine O?Neal, who edged out second-year center Andrew Bogut in the first round, looks to advance to the elite eight by beating Emeka Okafor and face the winner of tomorrow?s Dwyane Wade/Greg Oden match-up.
Andrew Perna | Oct 3, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Bosh Vs. Chauncey
We expected to see Chris Bosh meet up against LeBron James in this match-up of round two, but surprisingly, he was upset by Chauncey Billups. While Bosh may not have the all-star appearances and the championship ring that Billups has, he does have time on his side.
Andrew Perna | Oct 2, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Iverson Vs. Pierce
The first match-up of the second round features two of the Eastern Conference?s best offensive players. Paul Pierce and Allen Iverson were drafted two years apart, with Pierce entering the NBA two years after Iverson.
Andrew Perna | Sep 30, 2006

Be An NBA GM: O.J. Vs. Artest
The final match-up of the ?Be an NBA GM? contest?s first round features Sacramento?s Ron Artest and high school senior O.J. Mayo. Our second round, which will begin tomorrow, will feature only one of these two players.
Andrew Perna | Sep 28, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Nash Vs. Kobe
Our Wednesday match-up features reigning MVP Steve Nash and Kobe ?Mr. 81? Bryant. The first round of our ?Be an NBA GM? contest may almost be over, but today?s battle could end up being the closest we?ve seen yet.
Andrew Perna | Sep 27, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Richardson Vs. Brand
Golden State?s Jason Richardson and Los Angeles? Elton Brand are both the cornerstones of their respective franchises, but neither have tasted the success that some of their Western Conference counterparts have enjoyed.
Andrew Perna | Sep 26, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Jesus Vs. Deron
Today?s battle pits Seattle?s Ray Allen against Utah?s Deron Williams. Allen is a sharpshooting ten-year veteran from the University of Connecticut, while Williams is coming off his rookie season out of Illinois.
Andrew Perna | Sep 25, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Garnett Vs. Roy
Sunday is a day for football, but we must remember that there are other important things going on, like our ?Be an NBA GM? Contest. Both KG and Roy were drafted by the Timberwolves, but Roy only lasted minutes before he was sent packing to Portland.
Andrew Perna | Sep 24, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Carmelo Vs. Parker
Our Saturday match-up features Team USA?s Carmelo Anthony and France?s Tony Parker. Anthony was part of the much-heralded 2003 draft class, while Parker was the steal of the 2001 Draft, when the Spurs took him with the twenty-eighth overall pick.
Andrew Perna | Sep 23, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Pau Vs. Paul
Pau Gasol stands a whole foot taller than Chris Paul and hails from Barcelona. Paul went to Wake Forest and grew up in nearby Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Would you rather start a team with a dominating inside presence, or one of basketball?s best point guards?
Andrew Perna | Sep 22, 2006

Be An NBA GM Contest: Dirk Vs. T-Mac
Tracy McGrady of the Rockets is one of the purest and most versatile players in the NBA today. His opposition in the first round of our ?Be an NBA GM? contest is Dirk Nowitzki, who has quickly become one of basketball?s most unique offensive players.
Andrew Perna | Sep 20, 2006

Be An NBA GM Contest: Arenas Vs. Oden
Our most unique match-up to date pits Gilbert Arenas against incoming Ohio State freshmen Greg Oden. The NBA?s thirty team make-up wasn?t conducive to building a 32-player field, so we added Oden and O.J. Mayo to the competition in order for the bracket to play out correctly.
Andrew Perna | Sep 19, 2006

Be An NBA GM Contest: Howard Vs. Wade
Dwight Howard, the first pick in the 2004 draft by Orlando, isn?t even of legal drinking age yet. Meanwhile, Dwyane Wade, at twenty-four years old, is a member of the talent-laden 2003 draft class and has already won himself an NBA title.
Andrew Perna | Sep 18, 2006

Be An NBA GM: Okafor Vs. Marvin
Atlanta?s Marvin Williams and Charlotte?s Emeka Okafor had a great deal of success in the college game, but have yet to taste victory in the NBA. Okafor was selected with the second overall pick in 2004, and Williams was drafted second in 2005.
Andrew Perna | Sep 16, 2006

Be An NFL GM Contest: Bogut Vs. Jermaine
Our latest battle features two of the Eastern Conference?s most promising big men. Bogut, the first pick of the 2005 draft, anchors the Bucks frontcourt and led rookies in rebounding last season.
Andrew Perna | Sep 15, 2006

Be An NBA GM Contest: James Vs. Billups
This match-up may be one of the most lopsided in the entire contest, and that?s not a shot at Chauncey Billups, a former NBA Finals MVP. LeBron is just that good.
Andrew Perna | Sep 14, 2006

Be An NBA GM Contest: Bosh Vs. B. Wallace
The Wednesday match-up in our contest features Toronto?s Chris Bosh and brand new Bull Ben Wallace. One is a former defensive player of the year and a ten-year veteran, while the other is entering his fourth year in the league he is primed to make the leap into the elite class of NBA big men.
Andrew Perna | Sep 13, 2006

Be An NBA GM Contest: Balkman Vs. Iverson
Our second ?Be an NBA GM? Contest match-up features the Knicks 'much heralded' first round draft pick, Renaldo Balkman, and the 76ers notorious point guard, Allen Iverson. Iverson is one of the best players in league history, while Balkman was the MVP of the 2006 NIT as a member of the South Carolina Gamecocks.
Andrew Perna | Sep 12, 2006

Be An NBA GM Contest: Pierce Vs. Jefferson
Both Paul Pierce and Richard Jefferson are among the NBA?s best swingmen, with only an inch and five pounds separating them. Pierce has better career averages, but Jefferson is three years younger.
Andrew Perna | Sep 11, 2006

Baby Ballers
Players like Tyrus Thomas, Rudy Gay, and the infamous Renaldo Balkman will forever be linked together because of that amazing night they shared in the summer of 2006. With the rookies just a few short months away from making their NBA debut, I began to wonder what these young men were like as pre-adolescent hoop stars.
Andrew Perna | Aug 15, 2006

Why Is Iverson Off The Table?
Billy King has everyone, fans included, confused. After shopping his franchise cornerstone for the past few months he has now decided to keep his best player. Could it simply be because King wasn?t getting the kind of players in return that he desired?
Andrew Perna | Jul 26, 2006

Trading The Answer
Being traded to somewhere like Denver, Los Angeles, or Boston would mean a new beginning for both Iverson and the Sixers. Being paired with a player like Elton Brand, Carmelo Anthony, or Paul Pierce could mean rejuvenation and another trip to the NBA Finals.
Andrew Perna | Jul 18, 2006

Draft Analysis And Mock Contest Winners
Many people have said that this draft class was the weakest since 2000 when Kenyon Martin was the first pick by the New Jersey Nets and this is likely why there was so much volatility and why the winners of our contest only got 9 out of 30 picks correct.
Andrew Perna | Jul 3, 2006

Create A Winning Mock Draft!
Will Adam Morrison end up staying close to home in Portland? Will the Raptors draft Bargnani? Think you can create a Mock Draft that is more accurate than the experts? Here is your chance to prove it by participating in RealGM's Create-A-Winning-Mock contest.
Andrew Perna | Jun 28, 2006

30 Days, 30 Teams: Los Angeles Lakers
won't wow anyone with any particular part of his game, but he's capable of proving help in a lot of different ways. He may never become a star but he could have a nice career as a role player and could thrive in the triangle offense.
Andrew Perna | Jun 26, 2006

30 Days, 30 Teams: Cleveland Cavaliers
While Shawne Williams has the most potential, and Jordan Farmer might be the most NBA-ready, we think Mardy Collins is the best option for the Cavs. If he turns into another Eric Snow, Cleveland would be in good hands for another decade.
Andrew Perna | Jun 26, 2006

30 Days, 30 Teams: Memphis Grizzles
If Rajon Rondo falls to the Grizzles, he could be starting by the end of the season. If that happens he?s my dark house for the all-rookie team. He is one of the more athletic players in this year?s draft and would be a steal at 24.
Andrew Perna | Jun 25, 2006

Vindication
Shaq has won a championship without Kobe on his side, something Bryant cannot yet say in return. Personal rivalry or not, inside each of these men wanted to taste glory on their own first, and now O?Neal has.
Andrew Perna | Jun 21, 2006

30 Days, 30 Teams: Indiana Pacers
If Indiana decides to keep Stephen Jackson and/or Jamaal Tinsley, they should look to shore up their interior core by taking Hilton Armstrong in the first round. His defense can help push opponents away from him and towards Jermaine O?Neal, who is a tremendous weak-side shot blocker.
Andrew Perna | Jun 15, 2006

30 Days, 30 Teams: New Orleans Hornets (15th Pick)
At 15, the Hornets second selection of the first round, Cedric Simmons would be their best case scenario. Simmons played in the Princeton offense at N.C. State, the same offense utilized by Byron Scott. He has about as much upside as one could see in the middle of the first round.
Andrew Perna | Jun 13, 2006

If Only They Could Go On Forever
Some years the playoffs do feel like they could go on forever, but this Spring has seen the most exciting playoff basketball since the glory days of Michael Jordan. Between the return of the Lakers, the rise of LBJ and the first Finals appearance of two clubs, we are having a renaissance.
Andrew Perna | Jun 11, 2006

30 Days, 30 Teams: New Orleans Hornets (12th Pick)
The Hornets would be wise to draft a guard in the draft and use their money to sign a free agent forward/center this summer. Reason being that the draft is full of talented guards, but lacks the size and strength they need on the inside.
Andrew Perna | Jun 10, 2006

30 Days, 30 Teams: Orlando Magic
The Magic have a future megastar in Dwight Howard, but very little else that blows anyone away. They appear to be attempting to move up in the draft, but if they stay put, Duke's J.J. Redick may be the sharpshooter that can extend defenses.
Andrew Perna | Jun 9, 2006

30 Days, 30 Teams: Seattle Supersonics
For whatever reason many mock drafts have Seattle drafting a guard, something I don?t agree with. Thank god for my RealGM buddy, J.T. Magee, who?s mock draft was the only I could find with the Sonics drafting a big man, Tiago Splitter. Unfortunately, Splitter pulled himself out of this year?s draft.
Andrew Perna | Jun 8, 2006

30 Days, 30 Teams: Minnesota Timberwolves
Was Minnesota?s season disappointing? Yes. Was it overly surprising? No, not entirely. Does their playoff drought have to last more than one season? Definitely not, so long as they are able to get value out of their sixth pick, whether it is to draft a player like Adam Morrison or if they can trade it for a veteran.
Andrew Perna | Jun 3, 2006

30 Days, 30 Teams: Charlotte Bobcats
With former UCONN star Emeka Okafor looking to rebound from a injury-plagued sophomore season, the Bobcats will look at another former Husky, Rudy Gay. With Gerald Wallace on the other wing, the Bobcats would have two of the most athletic wings in the NBA.
Andrew Perna | May 31, 2006

The Most Underpaid Players
Sports fans love to complain about players that are overpaid and take up salary cap space, but often overlooked are those who are not paid enough in comparison to the rest of the league, a league where the average salary is now over $3 million per season.
Andrew Perna | May 26, 2006

Season Superlatives
As many college campuses are closed down for the summer, and schools around the nation begin to close their doors we thought it would be fun to hand out Superlatives to the NBA?s Class of 2006. If students can receive awards like ?Most Likely to Succeed? why can?t millionaire athletes?
Andrew Perna | May 18, 2006

Playoff Reform Needed
The NBA playoffs are beginning to become as much of a joke as college football?s BCS system. Andrew Perna is proposing that the league allow twelve, not sixteen teams, to qualify for the postseason, giving the top two teams from each conference a first round bye.
Andrew Perna | May 7, 2006

Kobe No. 24
You might think the number change is an effort by Kobe to start anew in the league, or maybe even to return to his roots, he wore No. 24 at Lower Marion High School in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, but not me.
Andrew Perna | Apr 27, 2006

First Round Predictions
Out of the eight first round matchups, only the Pistons versus Bucks is appearing to be a boring no-brainer, as Ron Artest takes on the Spurs machine, the Bulls continue their hot streak versus the Heat and Kobe takes on the state of Arizona. Here is who we see advancing and why.
Andrew Perna | Apr 22, 2006

Too Close To Call?
He?s not the next Jordan, he?s not the easiest player to play with, and he?s not the most charismatic player in the league, but this season he was clearly the best. Even without his 81-point performance against Toronto in January ? he?s still the NBA?s MVP.
Andrew Perna | Apr 17, 2006

Paying Peja
?From the moment I was traded I felt that this organization was one of the best in the league, and I believe this team has potential. I was excited about playing here when I got traded, and it?s still exciting,? Peja said Friday night.
Andrew Perna | Apr 10, 2006

Morristown?s Golden Warrior
He may not be a household name, but Golden State?s Troy Murphy has quietly become one of the NBA?s most consistent players. Thanks to his blue collar New Jersey upbringing Murphy has made quite an impact on a league full of former high school phenoms, self-centered scorers, and players who possess a ?me-first? attitude.
Andrew Perna | Apr 3, 2006

Q & A with Nick Collison
Nick Collison, who was expected to return relatively soon, is now expected to remain on the sideline for a few more weeks. He was nice enough to grant RealGM's Andrew Perna a few minutes of his precious time before the Sonics traveled to Denver last Thursday.
Andrew Perna | Mar 27, 2006

Q & A With Jumaine Jones
Jumaine Jones, a seven-year NBA veteran, is in the middle of his first year as a member of the Charlotte Bobcats. He has shared the court with Allen Iverson, Paul Pierce, and Kobe Bryant, granted Andrew Perna a few minutes of his time following a Charlotte practice this past Monday.
Andrew Perna | Mar 21, 2006

A United Team USA
While a team full of egos worked for Dream Team I and II, USA Basketball needed a pretty severe shake-up. A roster that includes team players like Battier, Billups, Bowen, Miller, and Ridnour is a step towards a more cohesive international force.
Andrew Perna | Mar 16, 2006

Grading The Deadline
The player that has been rumored to be traded the most since the middle of December, Earl Watson, ended up being the centerpiece of the biggest deal on Deadline Thursday. With the grades of who won each trade since Wednesday is RealGM's Andrew Perna.
Andrew Perna | Feb 24, 2006

Trading Issues
The NBA?s trading deadline is just a few days away and there are still several players in the league that need trading. The Magic need to get rid of Steve Francis, the Hawks must trade Al Harrington before he leaves via free agency this summer, and the Jazz have reportedly begun listening to offers for Carlos Boozer.
Andrew Perna | Feb 20, 2006

Thirteen Luckiest Men In The NBA
The NBA is full of lucky men. Lately, basketball is as much about millions of dollars, cars, and beautiful women as it is about talent, determination, and winning. You'd be lucky if you were dating Eva Longoria or if you were making $1.5 million per point like Penny.
Andrew Perna | Feb 14, 2006

Everything Is Wonderful For Thomas In Phoenix
On the eve of Game 7 of the NBA Finals, RealGM first reported that Kurt Thomas would be sent to Phoenix for Quentin Richardson. On Tuesday, RealGM caught up with Thomas to see how life was treating him in the Valley of the Sun. As a focal point of a Suns team that is playing without Amare Stoudemire, life is good.
Andrew Perna | Feb 8, 2006

Trade Finally Made, Artest Headed to Kings
The deal seems to fit well for both teams. Sacramento is hoping that Artest can put forth a strong effort both mentally and physically. If so, the Kings would likely return to the elite status they enjoyed just a few seasons ago.
Andrew Perna | Jan 26, 2006

Artest Saga Continues
For about an hour or so on Tuesday afternoon, it seemed as though the Ron Artest Saga was finally going to come to an end. Then we realized we were dealing with the same man who earned the longest suspension in NBA history, flipped off an opposing crowd, put his music career ahead of his basketball team, threw a television monitor onto the court, and asked his team to trade him.
Andrew Perna | Jan 24, 2006

The True All-Stars
The NBA all-star voting period is almost over, so we figured it was time for to share our opinions on who should play in the 55th annual game. Often fans vote for a player who is injured, or severely underperforming, solely based on past success or their latest shoe deal, we don't.
Andrew Perna | Jan 18, 2006

A Different Look At Scoring
With no disrespect to Allen Iverson, the NBA's scoring leader, Andrew Perna wants to use a different statistic to determine who is among the league?s best scorers. It?s not a new stat, but it is very seldom used when talking about the best or most effective players in the NBA. Points scored per shot attempt, or points per shot.
Andrew Perna | Jan 9, 2006

Anniversary Of Anarchy, November 19th, One Year Later
A year has finally passed since the infamous basket-brawl. For some involved it seems as though it took place years ago, but for some the brawl still replays in their minds as if it was just yesterday. The players involved have gone to trial and been given their punishments, and everyone involved has moved on.
Andrew Perna | Nov 18, 2005