Q: The Trail Blazers need a shooting guard that can also lock down defend. Any chance they'd be able to trade for restricted free agent Ben Gordon? And is he capable of playing lock down defense? If so, who would the Bulls realistically want in exchange?
— David Nielsen, Portland, Ore.

A: I'm guessing you haven't watched the Bullls or Gordon. Gordon is one of the most unique players in NBA history, a brilliant scorer best suited to being a sixth man. His defense is deplorable, mostly because of his lack of size. He's regularly attacked by bigger guards. I thought Brandon Roy was the shooting guard. He's the guy the Bulls probably should have drafted in 2006 because they still need a shooting guard, though Larry Hughes plays one for now. Gordon should be available given the Bulls glut at that position, even if there is no one close in ability to Roy.

Q: Which non-playoff team will make a move and become the most improved team next year? I think that either Charlotte or Indiana are the main candidates.
— Vincent P., Benalmadena, Malaga, Spain

A: I like Milwaukee. I think they underachieved more than anyone, especially with Andrew Bogut developing. With a new coach, which they'll have, who demands accountability and effort, they should be a playoff team. Plus, they'll get another good lottery pick and perhaps could make a deal involving Yi Jianlian, which could net something intriguing.

Q: Do you think Pat Riley will coach the Heat next season? If not, who will replace him? Is Jeff Van Gundy a candidate?
— Sean Dillon, Miami

A: Pat seems to be making it clear he won't coach again, especially with his Hall of Fame induction in September. He should have left after the 2006 championship, but ego and a sense of duty to the organization probably kept him around. This is probably the next best time to go upstairs with a major rebuilding. Riley keeps suggesting assistant Erik Spoelstra, which I suppose is possible as Riley pulled Stan Van Gundy from nowhere and he became a fine coach. Sorry, no Jeff. The Van Gundys are done with Riley.

Q: If the Boston Celtics face the Detroit Pistons or Cleveland Cavaliers, which team will they have a better chance of beat?
— Kevin Small, Boston

A: I don't see the Cavs getting out of the first round, though if they do they'll face Boston and have about as much chance as they did against the Spurs. The Pistons have the guards to give the Celtics trouble, and their matchup seems inevitable. Kevin Garnett finally gets to the Finals.

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