The resounding answer to beatcal's seminal post, Reload or Rebuild, falls directly on the choice regarding who will drive the Suns' Short Bus.  Having myself just returned from a week-long depressive stupor, one name is shockingly and glaringly absent on the Suns list of broadcasters and peon assistants: Avery Frickin Johnson.

Why is no one talking about him?

That the Suns let D'Antoni walk away so easily and so amicably is a story that, while floors me, is one for another day (Monday, in fact, watch for it).  However, the depressing parade of n00b candidates the Suns are trotting out is nothing short of bizarre.

For example, would anyone be talking about Thibodeau if Big Gift hadn't come to the Celtics?  And what of these other assistants?  To coach a veteran team that is looking to win now?  Please.

What are the stats on a rookie coach leading a veteran team to ultimate glory?  Why are we talking about handing the keys to our short bus of millionaire players to proverbial 15 year olds on learning permits?  Why are we not getting a Mario Andretti or the best, most experienced driver on the market?  Why are we not even talking about him?  Why am I writing this whole commentary in rhetorical questions?

If we intend to keep Nash, Shaq and Grant around, delude our season ticket holders into believing the window is still open, there is only one coaching option, and for some reason, that guy doesn't even make the short list? 

The case for Avery is simple.  No one around here likes the annoying Little General.  But he did get the Mavs past the Spurs.  Think about that.   He did get his team to the Finals.  He tasted glory, even though his team fell short.  He learned from Pop and from Nellie.  As a player he has a ring.   He has been a successful head coach - more than any of the other candidates can say.

That he was unceremoniously booted from the Mavs, I think says more about Mavs sideline puppeteer Cuban than it does about Avery.  And so what about Nash and Avery possibly struggling to get along.  They can work it if they want to win.  Is there something between Kerr and Avery we don't know about?

If you really think the team can reload for one more shot, then Avery is the only choice.  He can bring a tough defensive message.  He can command respect for the duration of the window.  We only need him for a few years, then we can hire that n00b coach to go with a rebuilding effort.

If not Avery, then let's not pretend to be serious about next year.  Trade the senior citizens and start building around the 25 year olds.

[Note by ZonaFlash, 05/21/08 5:12 AM EDT ]

I just visited Ridiculous Upside's liveblog on the lottery.  Looks like the Bulls got the first pick, Avery was on hand and people are talking Avery->Chicago. 

That sucks so bad.  Start rebuilding folks.