Resurrection: Chapter 1, A New Foundation

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Resurrection: Chapter 1, A New Foundation

Postby Pistol on Sun Nov 29, 2015 9:48 am

Resurrection

This is a story about the Milwaukee Bucks through the eyes of different sources of the story.

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Last edited by Pistol on Sat Dec 05, 2015 12:06 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Resurrection: Table of Contents

Postby Pistol on Sun Nov 29, 2015 9:49 am


Chapter / HeadlineType of EntryThrough the Eyes ofStory DateDate Posted
Prologue, Enter the Milwaukee BucksStoryVladimir Stanovich2015-2016 PreseasonSaturday - 28 November 2015
Chapter 1, A New FoundationStoryVladimir Stanovich2015-2016 PreseasonFriday - 04 December 2015
Last edited by Pistol on Sat Dec 05, 2015 12:05 pm, edited 10 times in total.
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Resurrection, Prologue, Enter the Milwaukee Bucks

Postby Pistol on Sun Nov 29, 2015 10:55 am

Resurrection
- Prologue, Enter the Milwaukee Bucks


"Coach Kidd has many great things to say about you Mr. Stanovich," Wesley Edens, part owner of the Milwaukee Bucks continued to ramble on with the reasons for why the organization was choosing to bring Vladimir Stanovich on as the General Manager. He had been talking for some time now. Vladimir looked around the table. All he saw was a bunch of suits and fake smiles. None of these people cared at all about this hiring. They wanted to know when this team was going to start making better profits. Then Vladimir's eyes met with Jason Kidd's glazed stare. He wasn't present mentally either. Vladimir had known Jason from their time within the Brooklyn Nets organization. Of course he had good things to say, Kidd had fought with the Nets brass about many players that Vladimir had scouted. Players that focused around analytics that Jason also favored, but the Nets fell more in line with "old school" statistics, explaining their hiring of the ancient basketball mind of Lionel Hollins. Vladimir noticed everyone at the table had stood up. Finally over. Vladimir stood up and shook their hands.

"Thanks for the opportunity, I won't disappoint," Vladimir waved and followed Jason out of the office. He followed him down the hall and to an elevator where they were finally alone. "Wow, they sure know how to talk."

Jason smirked, "Dog and pony show. At the end of the day, they did whatever I wanted them to do." Vladimir distinctly remember Jason leaving Brooklyn because he wanted to handle more personnel decisions. That's what surprised Vladimir the most about Jason calling him about this position. It also made him nervous. It's very possible Jason wanted such a fresh face to show his willingness to work with front office brass while behind the scenes controlling every move of my freshly minted career. The elevator opened and both men continued to Vladimir's brand new office.

"I can't believe I have my own office now," Vladimir looked around the corner office with floor to ceiling windows. Both men took a seat. Vladimir seemed a little nervous as he looked up at Jason, "I have to ask you a question that's been looming over my head Jason."

"Ask away Vlad," Jason responded as if knowing where the conversation was going.

"Look, I'm not completely sure of your motives behind brining me in, nor do I want to concern myself with them too much. I have one goal in mind here and that's building a great organization. We have both seen eye to eye in our time working together and I think together we can build something special here. I don't want to make any decisions without you, but I'm also not here to be a puppet. I have a vision and I plan on constructing a winner here."

Jason chuckled a bit and just nodded his head, "What vision is that? What type of team are you aiming to build here?"

Vladimir was uneasy about the chuckle. Did Jason view him as a joke? "Everyone is making a big fuss about the Warriors playing small last year and the NBA starting to favor smaller lineups. While I agree with people saying that taller more athletic players that can guard multiple positions is important, I think they are looking at it in the wrong way." Jason's eyebrows raised, he was interested. "Instead we should be looking for bigger wing players who can handle to the ball and flooding the floor with them. These players can play the two, three, AND four. While still imposing our will at the five with a post scorer or a defensive anchor." Jason just nodded motioned with his hand to continue. "Giannis Antetokounmpo for example. He is getting most of his time at the three and the league is morphing in such a way that he is going to also be pushed down to the four. I think his ability to handle the ball is lost there and instead he could be starring at the two."

Jason interrupted at this point, "We have Khris Middleton though."

Vladimir nodded and took a big breath, "This is where I really want to discuss something with you." Jason's face went from curious to cautious. "Just hear me out Jason. This team you have put together is young, athletic, and very talented. I think they are capable of being a contender if we can bring in a certain type of player. I'm talking about a face for the franchise. Someone who can shoulder the load right now. Someone who is looking for an opportunity to lead a group of talented players like this. Someone who is looking for the chance to prove to everyone he can still lead a team. We need someone who is looking for a basketball resurrection."

Jason sat up and cleared his throat, "Vladimir, I know you think I brought you in as a place holder. Take that out of your mind. We have to have trust in order for us to be successful. I brought you in because I believe in your basketball knowledge and your innovative view on how to field a team. Don't be nervous, let's hear about this big plan of yours." Jason and Vladimir continued to discuss the plan in depth and Jason was very skeptical. He was very apprehensive about blowing up his young nucleus.

Vladimir tried to ease his worry, "Look, all the blame will be on me if this blows up. On the outside everyone thinks you are trying to show your willingness to relinquish power. They will think I'm some new young trigger happy GM. Everyone will think I'm tying to make a name for myself and will rightfully put all the blame on me if this blows up in our face." Jason stared at the wall behind Vladimir.

"I have to trust my gut and my gut was to bring you in Vlad," Jason said this as he exhaled heavily as if the sentence was relieving him of a piano resting on his shoulders.

With that Vladimir picked up the phone and dialed the phone number for Billy King, the Brooklyn Nets General Manager. "Billy, hey it's Valdimir... Oh the new office is great, but the view of Milwaukee is nothing compared to that of the greater New York area... Look I'm calling about Joe Johnson... The press conference is tomorrow... Nope, not wasting anytime with the moves. Anyways, I know you want to move Joe in order to get some type of return on him... No, Jason has no idea I'm calling. Let's keep it that way," Jason chuckled and shook his head as Vladimir continued on, "Joe wants to compete and wants to play in the playoffs, everyone knows this. You guys will look like you are still trying to take care of people in your organization. It would be a good thing for you guys moving in to free agency next year. You guys need someone young to build around and insert in to the core of Brook and Thaddeus. I think Khris Middleton fits that perfectly for you all... Of course I will throw a draft pick in as well. How about this coming summer's first round pick?... Okay sounds good... I just have to contact a third team to make the salaries work, this is going to be huge for you all in Brooklyn. We'll be in touch Billy."

Vladimir looked over at Jason after hanging up the phone. Jason shook his head as he stood up to leave, "I hope you know what you are doing Vlad."
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Resurrection: Chapter 1, A New Foundation

Postby Pistol on Sat Dec 05, 2015 11:59 am

Chapter 1

Vladimir listened to Jason Kidd explain the trade details to Khris Middleton and Greivis Vazquez. Khris was very surprised when they first called them in to the office, whereas Greivis didn't show a hint of it. Greivis has moved around the league plenty already and he knows that he is on an expiring contract. Those contracts make for great trade chips. Jason looked over at Vladimir, as if to give him the cue to talk. Closing time. "Listen Khris, you're going in to a great situation. You're going to get to be one of the building blocks as Brooklyn starts their rebuild. I know you are apprehensive because of their lack of recent success. I'm coming from their organization and I can assure you that they are moving in the right direction. They now have a solid core with Brook Lopez, Thaddeus Young, and you. This also will give you the chance to be the star player in Brooklyn," Vladimir didn't bother going in to much more detail for Greivis. The veteran didn't need to be coddled. Vladimir stood up and Jason followed. Vladimir extended his hand to shake, "Best of luck to the both of you." With that, both of them exited the office. Vladimir could tell Khris was still in shock. Vladimir had a hint of sympathy for the young player, but at the end of the day this is a business. The Bucks are making the right move.

Jason turned to Vladimir, "I'm not sure Khris is going to talk for the next 24 hours."

Vladimir responded, "This next group will probably be even worse." Vladimir was talking about the next three players that they have to talk to.

Jason took a deep breath in, "You're putting us out on a limb here Vlad. I really hope this doesn't blow up in our faces."

Vladimir smirked and turned to Jason, "Trust. That's all I need Jason."

Jason nodded his head without turning towards Vladimir, "You have it. For now."

Vladimir chuckled and there was a knock on the door, "Come in."

Michael Carter Williams, John Henson, and OJ Mayo walked in the office. MCW and John sat on a couch together and OJ sat on the couch next to them. They all looked a little confused. Vladimir spoke up first, "Let's cut straight to the chase guys."

MCW interrupted Vladimir though, "What happened to Khris? Is he alright?"

Jason's face wrinkled as he look at MCW, "He's fine, just hear out Mr. Stanovich."

Vladimir continued, "Usual business within the NBA is that agents found out about transactions first. In some cases, player unfortunately find out through social media. For me, I want to be the first to give the news to players. I don't want you all to think I forget you are all human beings. Even before calling your agents, I want to let you all know the news." MCW shifted in his seat. It appeared he was figuring out what was going on, but he didn't understand why. John kept a stone face and stared forward. OJ picked up what the talk was about and looked up at the ceiling. "Khris and Greivis were traded to Brooklyn in a three team trade. The three of you were also involved in the trade. As of approximately 30 minutes ago, the three of you were traded to the Chicago Bulls." MCW looked obviously frustrated and looked towards the ground. John still didn't make any facial expressions. The corner of OJ's mouth showed approval in the move.

Jason spoke up, "Look, this wasn't an easy decision for us. We are looking at moving in a different direction that we think best gets us deep in the playoffs. Unfortunately we have to make sacrifices to get there. The three of you were a huge part in this team's growth last season. We are developing a new vision is all this has to do with."

Vladimir nodded his head as Jason made eye contact with him. Vladimir turned to the players once again, "All three of you are going to be an integral part of the Chicago Bulls present and future success. OJ you're looking at being their key wing player off the bench. John, you will be a main plug in the interior. Michael you are going to have the opportunity to start for this Bulls team that is obviously destined for the playoffs."

MCW looked over at the other two players and then to Jason. At last he looked over at Vladimir with a confused face, "Starting point guard? How? Is Derrick Rose hurt again?"

Vladimir stared at MCW as he began to think about all the pieces that were moving in this trade and how he orchestrated it all.

---------

Vladimir hung up the phone. Billy King of the Brooklyn Nets agreed to their part of the trade Vladimir offered. Now Vladimir just need to get the Bulls to agree to the three team blockbuster trade. Vladimir took a deep breath and collected his thoughts. Brooklyn agreed to send Joe Johnson to Chicago while sending Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Willie Reed to Milwaukee. Vladimir was helping Chicago get offensive help on the wing in the shape of Johnson, now hopefully they are willing to dish out some pieces. The Bucks were sending Khris Middleton, Greivis Vasquez, and Milwaukee's 2016 first round draft pick to Brooklyn. Vladimir was prepared to send Michael Carter Williams, John Henson, and OJ Mayo to Chicago. He was even willing to give up a first round draft pick in 2017 that belonged to the Sacramento Kings.

Vladimir picked up the phone and dialed Gar Forman's number. Gar is the general manager of the Bulls. The phone call was answered, "Hey Gar, it's Vladimir Stanovich over with the Bucks... Do have some time? ... I've talked to Billy over in Brooklyn about a possible three team trade and he has agreed to it. Obviously, I'm calling you to make you the third team in this trade... I absolutely understand you guys are contending and that this could be a long shot, but hopefully you will hear me out... Okay so the Nets are willing to send you Joe Johnson to help out with your new offensive focus. I know his contract is huge, but it's also expiring. I want to send you Michael Carter Williams, John Henson, and OJ Mayo. I think Carter Williams gives you a point guard of the future and stabilizes that position for you more. Mayo will be a great addition to your wing rotation. Henson will give you a young big man to begin molding for the future. This trade would require you to send Tony Snell to the Nets. As for us, we are looking to acquire Derrick Rose, Joaquim Noah, and E'Twaun Moore." Vladimir took a deep breath and there was nothing but silence on the other end. He knew it would take a moment for this significant of a trade to sink in for Gar.

Finally he spoke up questioning the deal. Vladimir was prepared though, "Look Gar, everyone knows you guys are having a power struggle between Jimmy Butler and Rose. Rose has done so much for you guys, but hasn't stayed healthy. Meanwhile, Butler has shown he wants and easily could be your franchise cornerstone. You guys hired Fred Hoiberg to shift a new focus to offense. Sending us Rose and Noah shows your fan base you are fully committing to change and building around Butler. This makes him the face of the franchise while letting you move to a new era. You get Johnson's contract that expires instead of having Rose's huge contract that still has two years remaining... I know, I know. You love Noah and so do your fans, but everyone must face reality. Your team is worse with Noah on the floor now. Pau Gasol and Nikola Mirotic fill your most effective frontcourt team. Taj Gibson give you that fire off the bench and Henson can be the young center you have locked in for the future. He is very promising. MCW has the potential to be a great point guard. You shed some old popular faces for talented players that assure you success for years to come."

Vladimir and Gar went back and forth for some time. Vladimir finally brought the Kings draft pick in to the equation. Vladimir continued to stress on how shedding Rose and Noah would create a changing of the guard that appears necessary for the locker room morale. How happy could Noah really continue to be coming off the bench for a team that he has carried when Rose was out. Vladimir needed Rose and Noah. He needed a franchise player like Rose and the competitive spirit of Noah. Vladimir truly believed this move would give them the best chance of finishing high in the east and making a deep playoff run. Vladimir was currently on hold as Gar spoke to his staff. Finally the phone picked up and Gar gave Vladimir his answer. Vladimir smiled and tried to keep from shouting, "Great Gar, I think this deal is going to help all three teams. It was a pleasure doing work for you." Vladimir hung up the phone and let out a very primal yell in celebration.


----------

Vladimir held up his hand to MCW and motioned downward as if asking to calm down, "You don't have to worry about that Michael, Rose will be coming to Milwaukee. The three of you will join Joe Johnson in Chicago to create a big time contender." OJ Mayo seemed happy and John, for some reason, still hadn't said anything. John also didn't appear to have moved a single muscle in his face. It was a little unsettling. Jason spoke up and continued to explain the move and smooth out the conversation. After some time, everyone stood up and shook hands. OJ and John exited the room, but MCW turned around before leaving the room. He looked at both Vladimir and Jason, "I promise that you two will regret this move. I will personally ensure that in the near future you will look at this and realize you lost more than you gained." With that MCW turned and stormed out the door. Vladimir understood the frusturation, but though that was a little childish. Vladimir didn't care too much though because he had wanted Rose and Noah so badly.

Jason didn't appear to let MCW's words brush off his shoulder though. He remained standing and staring at the door as Vladimir sat down. Vladimir spun his chair towards Jason. Jason spoke up just before Vladimir could say anything, "We're really putting ourselves out on a limb Vlad. I'm trusting you. For now." Jason didn't look at Vladimir as he spoke. He grabbed his papers without looking at them. Then with regret showing in his posture he walked towards the door. Once in the doorway Jason took a big breath and shook his head. He walked out of the office with his head down.

Vladimir knew that Jason would have a hard time with this trade. Milwaukee was letting go of young important assets in order to get a fragile superstar and an aging defensive star. Vladimir knew this trade was going to work though. He had to believe in it. Change has come in the shape of Derrick Rose. Vladimir knew this meant great things for Milwaukee, even if no one else believed so. They would see soon enough.
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Re: Resurrection: Chapter 1, A New Foundation

Postby Solaris Phase Two on Wed Dec 23, 2015 12:58 pm

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Re: Resurrection: Chapter 1, A New Foundation

Postby Pistol on Fri Jan 15, 2016 7:04 am

I'm back and this weekend I plan to add to this story and update everyone. I just got back from deployment in November, so I just finished my 30 days of leave. I got married while on vacation so it's been a very busy couple months. I'm in love with this story though and have continued to play. Look out for updates!
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Re: Resurrection: Chapter 1, A New Foundation

Postby newc on Fri Jan 15, 2016 5:28 pm

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Re: Resurrection: Chapter 1, A New Foundation

Postby Martti. on Tue Jan 19, 2016 8:29 am

Congrats on getting married!

Looking forward to reading more of this. :)
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