Bobcats Looking For An Answer?

With former world-class scorer Allen Iverson unemployed and the Charlotte Bobcats mired in mediocrity, reports have surfaced that the two have agreed to join forces to try and tackle the amoebic disarray that is the NBA Eastern Conference.

What’s the prognosis for this union?

Prognosis for Iverson:  This could be his final shot to be the bonafide top scorer on an NBA ball club.  The reality is that Iverson is a 34-year-old shooting guard in a point guard’s body.  Teams are more willing to live with a cerebral, seasoned player to lead their team with smart, saavy playmaking.  A.I.’s reckless game has been reliant upon his speed, quickness, and ability to shoot at will – all of which (except for the latter) may be leaving him.  Passing is something that the Answer does when he cannot create his own shot. 

The Answer ignited the fans in Denver during his short stay.

Nevertheless, this stands as a premier opportunity for Allen.  The Bobcats are one of a few select squads that does not have a true lead scorer.  So, from a personal standpoint, Bubbachuck can chuck the rock freely without any inhibitions.  That is, assuming he and Larry Brown can get along this time around.

Prognosis for Charlotte:  From a financial standpoint, this is a good move because it should fill some more seats in the Charlotte Arena.  Iverson provides the Bobcats with its first-ever, true star-studded attraction.  For better or for worse, A.I. will provide the fans with a show night in and night out.

From a standpoint of team progression, this is definitely a setback.  Iverson joins a team in transition – one that Larry Brown is trying to piece together in his own image.  Since joining Charlotte, Brown has almost completely uprooted the roster that he inherited – bringing in typically tough, defensive-minded guys like Raja Bell and Tyson Chandler.  But Iverson presents a big problem for the potential development of guards Raymond Felton and D.J. Augustin.  These youngsters played well down the stretch and must now be prepared to undoubtedly have their minutes cut.  A couple of seasons of A.I. could stunt their progression just enough to render them as ineffective players in the league.

All this – but for what reason?  The Bobcats will be extremely fortunate to find themselves in the hunt for a playoff spot.  With Orlando, Atlanta and Miami holding down the 3,4 and 5 seeds in the Eastern Conference this season – along with the Washington Wizards, who will only improve with the return of a healthy Gilbert Arenas - Charlotte will have a tough time avoiding last place in the Southeast Division.

A.I. has been an icon in the league for the past decade.  His combination of heart and skill have kept him at superstar status in the best basketball league in the world. 

But for the Bobcats, I have a feeling that the Allen Iverson will provide more questions than answers.

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