Eric Smith Visits Dino Nation Blog

Eric Smith of the Fan 590 has been covering the Raptors for many years and is a big part of the coverage of this franchise. That is why it is a great thrill to have him drop by the Dino Nation Blog and answer some questions. I feel that it adds something to hear from others beyond just me. When the blog is able to do these things it allows you to hear things you might not elsewhere. At the very least, it gives you a chance to hear from people that are close to the team like Eric. I personally value his views and consider him a supporter to the work I do. He does a great job in all his various roles be it on Radio as part of play by play team with Paul Jones, Hosting the “Hoops” show on Fan 590 and Raptors T.V and Double Dribble Show on Raptors T.V as well.

Q&A with Eric Smith

1. Having hosted the show “Hoops” on Fan 590 for all these years what has been the biggest change in the fans that call in to the show and what has not changed with them?

E.Smith-The level of intelligence has certainly stepped up over the years. Raptors’ fans know their ball. Their passion for the game and for their team is quite evident. But I suppose that’s where some folks get lost in the shuffle … in that there are still a few that get clouded in ridiculous / unrealistic fantasy trades and visions of what their team could or should look like.

2. Is there anyway to mend the Jose Calderon and Ford issue till at least next year’s trade deadline or is it really a case of there can only be one who remains at this point.

E.Smith-I don’t know that there’s anything to “mend”. They get along. They like each other and have a mutual respect for one another as players and as people. However, they both want to be starters. Neither wants to play the back-up role. I don’t think Bryan Colangelo will rush into any rash moves. But if a deal is out there, I’d be surprised if he doesn’t take it … and commit to one guy going into next year.

3. There is a thought of some that Raptors should focus on getting a big in the Draft and address the Swingman issue via trade is that the route the team should travel?

E.Smith-It depends on how it plays out. Maybe Toronto will trade their pick. Who knows. Honestly, it’s too early to tell … with 3+ weeks go to until the draft. Who really knows (yet) if Robin Lopez or Roy Hibbert (for example) will see their stock improve or decline over the coming weeks. Perhaps more athletic guys will be on the board and look like more attractive options.

4. We all were Surprised at Chuck Swirsky leaving for Chicago is there anything you learned from your time around Chuck? Is there a good Chuck Swirsky Story you can share with us?

E.Smith-I was shocked when Chuck made his announcement. I knew nothing about it. I heard about it at the same time all of you did. I started with Chuck from Day 1 in Toronto. I was working the pre, half, and post with Chuck and Jack Armstrong. Both of them became great mentors, and better friends. In fact, when I was purchasing my first home (condo) Chuck offered to give me – yes, GIVE … not loan – thousands of dollars to help with my down payment. I didn’t end up taking the money … but certainly it was a ridiculously generous offer

 

5. Chris Bosh seems to have grown before our eyes as a Raptor. This season he has seemed even more open in letting fans and media in to seeing a different side to him how much has he changed on and off the floor in his time here. What is the next step for him?

E.Smith-I’d like to see Bosh develop a little more attitude and tenacity – especially on the defensive end. Offensively, he simply has to assert himself a little more. Sometimes I think Bosh doesn’t realize how good he is or how good he can be. Perhaps that’s just a young man still learning to break out of his shell as a young player in this game. Plus, winning and success will ultimately bring out those traits as well.

6. Is next season a make or break year for Sam Mitchell’s future in Toronto?

E.Smith-He won coach of the year last year; he brought the team the playoffs – albeit in a disappointing season this year. I think the sharks that a circling are a bit crazy. Does he need to continue to improve the team; win a round; etc? Sure. But predicting an impending doom or demise probably isn’t fair.

7. How can this team best address the need to improve on the defensive end of the floor?

E.Smith-I’m not convinced they’re that bad on the defensive end. In fact, I think a lot of teams are better than they show – or better than the stats show. “Talent” is the ultimate x factor, no doubt. However, “EFFORT” is a huge part of defense. How bad do you want it? How hard are you willing to work? Are you willing to sweat on D as opposed to simply waiting for the spotlight on the offensive end.

8. Andrea Bargnani, I am concerned with another bad season his value could bottom out. Do you share that concern, and would you think Raptors ever consider moving him realistically this off-season?

E.Smith-Kareem was traded. Shaq was traded. Gretzky was traded. Thus, Bargnani could be dealt. I don’t think the Raptors are actively shopping him, but if the right move came along I don’t think Toronto would keep him just for the sake of keeping him.

9. I think it is safe to say that Chris Bosh is safe to be in Camp next season. Beyond him what Raptors if any do you think can feel safe they will be back in Toronto.

E.Smith-Jamario Moon. And, I believe in my gut, Jose Calderon.

10. Finally you have covered the team for many years and have moved up along the way. What is your favourite memory in that time and what do you look forward to in the future as far as covering the Raptors?

E. Smith-Seeing Vince Carter in his early years was special. Watching VC go for 50 in the playoffs against Philly was great. But, fortunately/unfortunately, seeing Kobe Bryant put up 81 against Toronto in LA … was unreal and … historic. Looking ahead, I hope to be there to see an NBA championship in Toronto one day.

I am currently working on bringing Eric Smith’s partner Paul Jones to the Dino Nation Blog for a chat on Raptors as well. The entire on-air crew from the Hoops show have all been very kind to the Dino Nation Blog. Jack Armstrong even mentioned his interview with me on the show. I often call into the show myself and see it as a great way to learn more about the Raptors, NBA and what fans are thinking out there. It can be heard on Thursday’s @ 7pm during the basketball season and on Raptors T.V during the Raptors season. Once the Blue Jays season starts it will cause the show to get bumped on occasion but still can be heard on nights there is no conflicts.This Thursday “Hoops” will be on @ 8pm as the pre-game for Lakers vs Celtics on the Fan 590 who will be airing The NBA Finals starting June 5th. You can also read Eric’s Blog “The Rap” which I have a link to in my blog roll and my personal favorites. I will often leave a comment on his blog as well. So thanks to Eric for taking time to share his views with all of us here at the Dino Nation Blog.

 

Tags: Jack Armstrong, T.J Ford, Chris Bosh, Jose Claderon, Andrea Bargnani, Sam Mitchell, Kobe Bryant, Vince Carter, Jamario Moon, Eric Smith, Raptors Offseason, Paul Jones, Fan 590, Hoops