Earlier today a reader asked why I would be a better NBA general manager than Bill Simmons.  The short answer to this question is as follows:  I know that Minnesota isn't a city.  

Sorry Bill, I couldn't resist.  In a couple of recent interviews, Mr. Simmons referred to Minnesota as a city rather than a state.  Actually, I think Bill would be a superb general manager for all of the reasons cited in this theherdsword.com blog post by Colin Cowherd.  I just don't think he will ever get the opportunity for two reasons:  1) NBA teams view him as "an outsider" and 2) the strong opinions that he has expressed about 3/4 of the GM's in the league

Although it really would be a great story, Simmons has about as much of a chance as being named GM of the Timberwolves as Larry Bird does of fitting into a pair of those tight green shorts that he wore in the 80's.  This is really a shame because Bill really does know hoops. I may not always agree with every viewpoint, but his NBA columns are always insightful and entertaining.  

From time to time I've sent an e-mail to BS about why he has been off the mark with his views.  Most recently, I questioned his assessment that the Nene Hilario vs. Eric Dampier match up would "be a wash" in the Nuggets-Mavericks series.  Subsequent to the messages (and Hilario's absolute dominance over Dampier) Simmons acknowledged in a podcast that he was mistaken.

As far as the question of why I would be better GM, I'd say the following:  While Simmons possesses an encyclopedia-like historical knolwedge of the league, I'd put my talent evaluation skills up against his any day of the week.  Since I've only blasted a few of the GM's in the league (Mike Dunleavy, John Hammond and a couple others), I'd also have a much better chance of making trades that would benefit my franchise.

For a long time I've dreamed about becoming an NBA GM.   While I seriously doubt Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor would even give Simmons an interview, I can always hold out hope.  If BS can find a way to land a gig as a GM, perhaps one day there will be an opportunity for a guy like me.  I can dare to dream, right?