Sunday, December 6, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
The Hawks Collapse
I said the gap was smaller, but it is evident that the Hawks still have some growing up. Catching Orlando on a back to back and losing this way is unacceptable. 22 points in the entire second half and none by Joe Johnson in the 4th quarter. Orlando has completely taken over and shown more energy in the 2nd half than the Hawks have and they had 3 days off. Unacceptable.
Joe Johnson Part 2
Uh oh, Orlando is making the push that championship contendors do to teams in the 4th quarter and the Hawks need a savior. Guess who that is going to have to be? Joe if you want more than $60 mil this is the game, on national tv, against the Magic, where you are going to have to be the man for your team. Wade, 16 pts in the 4th quarter against this same Magic team last night. Obviously the Hawks have more offensive weapons than the Heat, but you all get my point.
Joe Johnson
Kobe has by far the most moves of any player in the league and Wade and LeBron may be more complete players, but there is no other player in the league, outside of Kobe, with more moves than Joe Johnson. I've counted at least 6 different moves this dude has made and we are just entering the 4th quarter. I told my boys before the season started that if you are bold enough to turn down 60 million, you have to believe you have something in store for the rest of the league.
3rd quarter
Whew, the Hawks are frigid this quarter, but it's a reason why and that is they have stopped moving the ball. Joe Johnson's going with too much one on one right now and this has allowed a more energetic Magic team to get back in the game. Howard is much more active in the 2nd half and Lewis is going to the rim more giving Howard much more opportunity to crash the offensive boards. The Magic have also started to double team the Hawks pick and roll as I said they would and they have created a couple turnovers off bad passes from the Hawks. I'm should be paid to scout teams. This is too easy.
Real Talk Halftime
Orlando needs to move the ball. They are sorely missing Jameer Nelson tonight and probably will miss him for awhile. I haven't seen the ball move side to side at all allowing the Hawks defense to continually be set and ready to help throughout a 24 sec possession. They need to move Dwight Howard around as well. Put him in some positions to screen for some of these shooters and get the wings from the Hawks moving on defense. Right now they look very stagnant.
Defensively, Josh Smith hasn't been able to attack Rashard Lewis as effectively as the Hawks thought he could. It's obvious this was Woodson's plan in the first half. But what has happened is that the Magic's rotations out of their doubles have left their guards with a dilemma of covering either Joe Johnson or Mike Bibby, a pick your poison choice. I wouldnt be surprised to see Van Gundy start to double the pick and rolls and get the ball out of Bibby and Johnson's hands and make Smith, Williams, and Horford have to make a play in the 2nd half.
Defensively, Josh Smith hasn't been able to attack Rashard Lewis as effectively as the Hawks thought he could. It's obvious this was Woodson's plan in the first half. But what has happened is that the Magic's rotations out of their doubles have left their guards with a dilemma of covering either Joe Johnson or Mike Bibby, a pick your poison choice. I wouldnt be surprised to see Van Gundy start to double the pick and rolls and get the ball out of Bibby and Johnson's hands and make Smith, Williams, and Horford have to make a play in the 2nd half.
The Gap
The Celtics, the Magic, and the Cavaliers all at the top of the food chain. The Hawks were an afterthought this season. But they are 7-0 at home this season, but most importantly they are winning on the road thus far, something they haven't been able to do over the past couple seasons since their epic series against Boston in the playoffs. And now that they can win on the road some, that gap has shrunk significantly. Boston thus far looks their age, the Magic are ultimately still a jumpshooting team (most of them do not win titles), and the Cavs are still a one man show. The Eastern Conference playoffs should be fun again finally
The Hawks Bench
This is one thing I definitely missed when I thought of the Hawks and how good they could be this season, but their bench is so much better than last year. Not only the addition of Crawford, but Zaza is a better player. Put this with the addition of Joe Smith and they still have Mo Evans and this is a group that can hold it's own, just like it did against the famed Orlando bench tonight. If Jeff Teague ever becomes consistent at the backup pg spot, this group could be one of the top 3 or 4 bench groups in the league.
Woodson
Wow, what a terrible coaching move. The Hawks were rolling offensively and for some reason Woodson pulls most of his starters, they lose their entire offensive rhythm and allow the Magic back into the game. The Magic are not shooting the ball well and yet are only down 2 points because of all the turnovers by the Hawks once the bench came in the game. Why wouldn't you go to the bench later in the quarter, not at the 4 min mark? Their lead should be much larger than 2 points. Bad move Coach Woodson.
Hawks - Magic
Its kind of sad watching Vince be a straight jumpshooter, but at least he is on fire tonight. The Hawks move the ball very well, no wonder they are playing good ball. It's going from side to side and they are really making the Magic work to get in position on their rotations. The Magic on the other hand are trying to feed Howard, but his game is still limited offensively. His problem is not the offensive firepower around him, it's the lack of firepower in his offensive repertoire.
Thanks for the NBA Tonight
After suffering through two of the most boring games in my history of life earlier today, at least the NBA will give us something to be entertained with tonight. This whole dumb rule of even allowing the Detroit Lions and Oakland Raiders to be on television should be thoroughly scratched out, never to be written again. I would have rather watched HGTV today. No wonder after a combination of these games, some excellent food from my beautiful wife, and pure exhaustion from having to do no work today, I passed out into a dreamy 2 hour nap. Now, refreshed, I am ready to be entertained tonight. Thank you, NBA.
Tune in for several updates as I give you the fan's perspective of tonight's matchup, Hawks vs. Magic.
Tune in for several updates as I give you the fan's perspective of tonight's matchup, Hawks vs. Magic.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
AI
When I was younger and didn't understand all the nuances of the game as I do today, I thought Iverson was going to be the best guard of his day and maybe he was, but my how his act has worn thin on me as I have gotten older and more mature. I guess that happens to some of us and some of us it never happens to. He could score with anybody and you never questioned the heart and desire he brought to the floor each night, but his actions and attitude totally diminish his greatness on 94 feet. His selfishness, refusal to be a team player, refusal to act like the veteran he is and pass on all the knowledge and experience he has to a young Memphis team who has enough talent to eventually turn that organization around. But they need guidance, they need a leader, they need a coach who can speak up for them and they don't have any of that now with the situation they are in. They need Chauncey Billups. AI is the antithesis of Billups. Why is Billups still winning? Why is he so revered around the league? Is he the best player in the league? Not by a long shot, but he is one of the most respected for not only what he does for himself but for his team, for the veterans and the young players on that Nuggets team. He is a winner. He understands that winning takes more than just you or the skill you possess. AI never learned this.
NBA Weekly Recap - Eastern Conference
Well Boston finally lost, they were due one right? But let's look at it more closely. Pierce was carrying a lot of this load early and now that the weight is as heavy as Big Baby himself, no one else is stepping up to unload this weight. The C's have struggled with Minn, NJ, and lost to Phoenix. Symptoms are starting to pop up. Watch out C's.
Is Miami really 5-1? That's what the standings say. How are they winning? Wade obviously has been consistent, but the re-emergence of JO is really what has gotten Miami off to this heated start. JO is playing not only the d end but is once again effective on the offensive end taking some of that same load I mentioned about Pierce off Wade. Now, I don't think he can maintain this but it will be interesting to watch for the rest of November.
Atlanta, I know it was the end of the road trip but it's no reason to lose to the Bobcats by 20. Most times the Bobcats cannot even score 20 in a quarter and you give up 103? No surprise you bounced back to defeat Denver on Saturday night, but that's what you did last year too and it got you bounced out the 2nd round of the playoffs. You can't lose games to Charlotte.
Brandon Jennings is a talent! I slacked on watching this kid in the pre-season because most times it's hard for me to evaluate secondary minutes which is what I consider pre-season ball, but I should have watched this kid. He has natural abilities that you cannot teach. He's a firecracker and plays with a passion that I wish I saw in some other players. Milwaukee has a winner in Jennings. Let's hope Scott Skiles doesn't wear out this relationship like he has in the past with other players.
Ok, I've been trying to avoid it, but I have to talk about Cleveland. I tried to tell you that this Shaq experiment was not going to work out. He clogs the lane, he can't score 20 anymore, and he takes shots from other players. He is offensively handicapped meaning not only his game but he slows down everyone else's game as well. Let's not talk about how atrocious he is in pick and roll defense which in this point guard league that we have today, is not going to work very well for the Cavs.
Is Miami really 5-1? That's what the standings say. How are they winning? Wade obviously has been consistent, but the re-emergence of JO is really what has gotten Miami off to this heated start. JO is playing not only the d end but is once again effective on the offensive end taking some of that same load I mentioned about Pierce off Wade. Now, I don't think he can maintain this but it will be interesting to watch for the rest of November.
Atlanta, I know it was the end of the road trip but it's no reason to lose to the Bobcats by 20. Most times the Bobcats cannot even score 20 in a quarter and you give up 103? No surprise you bounced back to defeat Denver on Saturday night, but that's what you did last year too and it got you bounced out the 2nd round of the playoffs. You can't lose games to Charlotte.
Brandon Jennings is a talent! I slacked on watching this kid in the pre-season because most times it's hard for me to evaluate secondary minutes which is what I consider pre-season ball, but I should have watched this kid. He has natural abilities that you cannot teach. He's a firecracker and plays with a passion that I wish I saw in some other players. Milwaukee has a winner in Jennings. Let's hope Scott Skiles doesn't wear out this relationship like he has in the past with other players.
Ok, I've been trying to avoid it, but I have to talk about Cleveland. I tried to tell you that this Shaq experiment was not going to work out. He clogs the lane, he can't score 20 anymore, and he takes shots from other players. He is offensively handicapped meaning not only his game but he slows down everyone else's game as well. Let's not talk about how atrocious he is in pick and roll defense which in this point guard league that we have today, is not going to work very well for the Cavs.
NBA Weekly Recap - Western Conference
What a surprise the Phoenix Suns have been. They are back to running and gunning, Nash looks great, Amare is rounding into shape, and G Hill and J Rich are filling their complimentary roles perfectly. But most importantly, these boys are playing a little d now, not a lot, but enough to win games. This starts with Amare who I said at the beginning of the season was one of the worst defenders in the league, but he has really started to make a commitment to the d end which has certainly helped this start.
Also, a team to talk about in the West is the Houston Rockets. Who would imagine this team would be sitting at .500 right now after all the changes, but a couple things are certain here. First, Rick Adelman can flat out coach. Second, this is the hardest playing team in the league. They just outwork you. Guys like Scola, Landry, and Hayes are as blue collar as the sky and they show it on a nightly basis. Also, this team can spread you out because they put so many shooters on the floor. Long rebounds lead to offensive rebounds when you have guys like these 3 working that hard for you.
What's going on with San Antonio? The Spurs look old. They look rusty and they don't look to be on the same page right now. Their classic defensive rotations aren't there. They don't have a legit 5 who can play off Duncan on the defensive end and their not getting much from their wings on the offensive end. I picked them 3rd in the West, I still think they can finish there, because Popp can get it done. However, TP better be healthy for that to happen.
Finally, you can see how top heavy the West is. The bottom is what it is, terrible. None of these teams will win 40 games except maybe Oklahoma City but as you could see from this week, they have a lot of growing up to do in the 4th quarter. I watched Durant three times this week take bad shots at the end of games. He's a super talent, an exceptional talent, but the next step in his learning curve is learning how to finish. He has to be that player for his team.
Also, a team to talk about in the West is the Houston Rockets. Who would imagine this team would be sitting at .500 right now after all the changes, but a couple things are certain here. First, Rick Adelman can flat out coach. Second, this is the hardest playing team in the league. They just outwork you. Guys like Scola, Landry, and Hayes are as blue collar as the sky and they show it on a nightly basis. Also, this team can spread you out because they put so many shooters on the floor. Long rebounds lead to offensive rebounds when you have guys like these 3 working that hard for you.
What's going on with San Antonio? The Spurs look old. They look rusty and they don't look to be on the same page right now. Their classic defensive rotations aren't there. They don't have a legit 5 who can play off Duncan on the defensive end and their not getting much from their wings on the offensive end. I picked them 3rd in the West, I still think they can finish there, because Popp can get it done. However, TP better be healthy for that to happen.
Finally, you can see how top heavy the West is. The bottom is what it is, terrible. None of these teams will win 40 games except maybe Oklahoma City but as you could see from this week, they have a lot of growing up to do in the 4th quarter. I watched Durant three times this week take bad shots at the end of games. He's a super talent, an exceptional talent, but the next step in his learning curve is learning how to finish. He has to be that player for his team.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Family Life
I'm trying to watch the 4th quarter of the New Orleans-Boston game and my dog decides to golden shower my daughter's bed spread! Thanks, Coco!
Boston's Famous 3rd Quarters
Boston is on it's classic open up the 2nd half and it's time to end this game run. Will NO be able to deflect this new energy in the Garden and get back to running their offense? They are going to have to get some stops or this game is going to get ugly like Sam Cassell.
The Truth Part 2
I really tried not to do this because most of you probably don't even remember Julian Wright but in this lopsided battle of Kansas forwards, the Truth is showing Julian Wright how sorry he actually is. I guess Byron Scott just doesn't have anybody else. The announcer said, "Wright is active". Of course he is because is game is garbage. Not only can he not score, but he is being SVUed by the Truth
CP3 and Rondo
I told ya'll this was going to be a great matchup. We have our first double technical of the night between these two.
Big Hands
I remember seeing Rajon Rondo in Greensboro before he went on to Kentucky and telling the person I was with, I kept saying "Look at his hands, look at his hands, they are huge". I couldn't believe it. It's no wonder the things he can do with the ball on offense, and the pockets he picks on a continuous basis in the league including now, CP3.
The Truth
I know everyone. I know Melo is ballin this year. His numbers are absolutely sick. But as I continue to watch Paul Pierce score at will it got me thinking that is Melo just not a younger version of the Truth? As complete as both their games are, they are built similarly and Pierce was just as athletic as Melo when he was younger. I remember when Pierce was drafted 10th in his respective class, I thought it was ludicrous and whoever the GMs were who passed on him would absolutely regret it. If I was president of a franchise my GM has to be a talent evaluator. I'll find someone else to run the numbers.
Boston vs. NO
Boston has started a little cold tonight and New Orleans has taken advantage of it to start with a 9-6 lead. Both point guards have collected one foul apiece trying to check each other. This is going to be a great matchup all night. Rondo just tweaked his ankle slightly so we'll see how this affects his play.
The Biggest Question of the Day
Wouldn't you love it if the biggest question of the day for you was mine, "To buy League Pass or to not buy League Pass"? Man, this is driving my brain crazy.
WHAT WE LEARNED IN WEEK 1 Part 4
The last segment and of course I save my Lake Show for last. Inexcusable what happened to them against Dallas. It's quite obvious that Ron Artest is going to have a long learning curve with the triangle offense. Gasol's injury seems to be more serious than it was originally portrayed so expect some bumps in the road with this team until all the parts come together. But the Pacific is theirs. This is the weakest division in the West and perhaps the entire league if it wasn't for our beloved Atlantic which is always terrible.
With that said when Dallas gets a healthy Josh Howard they can compete with the best in the West. The question is will they? I've always loved Dirk. He's one of my favorite players to watch in the league. For one year he dominated offensively and on the boards and they went to the Finals. Until he returns to that form, Dallas will live in the middle of the West rankings.
Blogging tonight duirng the games, stay tuned....
With that said when Dallas gets a healthy Josh Howard they can compete with the best in the West. The question is will they? I've always loved Dirk. He's one of my favorite players to watch in the league. For one year he dominated offensively and on the boards and they went to the Finals. Until he returns to that form, Dallas will live in the middle of the West rankings.
Blogging tonight duirng the games, stay tuned....
WHAT WE LEARNED IN WEEK 1 Part 3
New Orleans may be worse than I originally thought. Oak is playing well and David West is his usual self, but they have been putrid on the wing. Byron Scott's experiment with Julian Wright is not paying dividends. I find it hard to see how a guy can't get 15 points with CP3 getting him every conceivable wide open shot.
Zach Randolph can flat out score from either block, wing, or the high post. His offensive repertoire is extraordinary. If he played any D and could get off weak teams he might be recognized as a top power forward in the league. He is the most offensivly complete player on Memphis including Rudy Gay and OJ Mayo who both show weaknesses. Get the ball to Z-Bo Memphis and you can be successful.
Denver will win the Northwest, but this division is the best in the league. I've watched Oklahoma City twice now. They are winning the games they are supposed to, that is a sign that this team is taking a step in the right direction. For Denver, Portland, and Utah beware of the little brother in your division. One day they will be beating you.
Zach Randolph can flat out score from either block, wing, or the high post. His offensive repertoire is extraordinary. If he played any D and could get off weak teams he might be recognized as a top power forward in the league. He is the most offensivly complete player on Memphis including Rudy Gay and OJ Mayo who both show weaknesses. Get the ball to Z-Bo Memphis and you can be successful.
Denver will win the Northwest, but this division is the best in the league. I've watched Oklahoma City twice now. They are winning the games they are supposed to, that is a sign that this team is taking a step in the right direction. For Denver, Portland, and Utah beware of the little brother in your division. One day they will be beating you.
WHAT WE LEARNED IN WEEK 1 Part 2
Man, it's sad watching Detroit. A team that dominated the East for nearly a decade, now looks completely below average. Ben Gordon is a little bit of a surprise so far, but yet all he can do is score. He brings nothing else to the table. CV is being CV. He'll be good some nights, but others he'll probably be thinking what he can twitter after the game. I mean their d has been solid yet they still couldn't win. Not a good sign.
If it wasn't for Orlando, this Southeast division would be really competitive. The only absolutely terrible team in this division is Charlotte (I hate saying that time and time again). Atlanta and Washington are playoff teams who can score and are athletic. Miami can beat you if Wade is on and they get a good effort from Beasley and O'Neal (what a start for him). But Orlando is miles ahead of all of them. It looks like Charlotte will lead the league again in fewest points scored for the second season in a row. Who do you look at and say "He'll get me 20 tonight?" much less who can get 30?
If it wasn't for Orlando, this Southeast division would be really competitive. The only absolutely terrible team in this division is Charlotte (I hate saying that time and time again). Atlanta and Washington are playoff teams who can score and are athletic. Miami can beat you if Wade is on and they get a good effort from Beasley and O'Neal (what a start for him). But Orlando is miles ahead of all of them. It looks like Charlotte will lead the league again in fewest points scored for the second season in a row. Who do you look at and say "He'll get me 20 tonight?" much less who can get 30?
WHAT WE LEARNED IN WEEK 1 Part 1
Clearly, I was not wrong about Boston. Hands down this is the team to beat in the East. Orlando, I like a lot, but Vinsanity is going to have show up in the playoffs and D Howard is going to need some moves against the vaunted defense.
Fans across the NBA said "OMG" Cleveland got Shaq. Why was this news, besides the fact that their probably would be a new sheriff in town? Ten years ago maybe, but now, this team is no better than the one last year and their two competitors are better than last season. Mike Brown is still the head coach and their offense is still predicated on LeBron. Don't be fooled by these past two victories. They were playing Minnesota and Charlotte.
Fans across the NBA said "OMG" Cleveland got Shaq. Why was this news, besides the fact that their probably would be a new sheriff in town? Ten years ago maybe, but now, this team is no better than the one last year and their two competitors are better than last season. Mike Brown is still the head coach and their offense is still predicated on LeBron. Don't be fooled by these past two victories. They were playing Minnesota and Charlotte.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Whew, I was impressed with Chicago's victory over San Antonio last night. I really believe this team is balanced with bigs who can score and defend and perimeter players who can penetrate and shoot. But what's even more impressive is how Boston dismantled this team at home tonight. These Celtics look to be in midseason form. Rasheed has clicked early and they really haven't even needed KG to play a big offensive role yet. It's apparent to me that this is clearly the best team in the East.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
NBA WESTERN CONFERENCE PREVIEW
Now let's move on to the Western Conference while deep, it is a completely different look than the East at the top. There is no speculation about who the best team is in the West, it's the LAKE SHOW!
1. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
After playing a game of addition by subtraction with Artest coming to town, the Lake Show has not only solidified its stranglehold on the West but on the rest of league as well. With Bynum healthy again, this team has very little weaknesses. Did I mention they have the best player on the planet? I mean the Dobermamba himself will only be needed on some nights. The only thing to worry about is will Odom be able to keep up with his new party life and Khloe with his basketball commitment?
2. DENVER NUGGETS
Teams in the West made moves, but I don't think anybody pushed past the Nuggets. Big Shot is one of the top 3 leaders in the league. Is it any coincidence that it didn't matter what conference he is in, he returned to the conference finals? Unfortunately he's not one of the best players which is where he will need Melo to bounce back from an subpar 08-09 campaign. This team is athletic, they can shoot the ball, they can post Melo, they have almost all of it. They just don't have the equalizer to Kobe.
3. SAN ANTONIO SPURS
Health is the key with this team and I'm a little scared to put them this high given they couldn't hold up last year, but neither is Dallas a relatively healthy team either so edge goes to championship pedigree here. There's not much that separates 3-8 in the West like the East. One thing I don't see is how Richard Jefferson is going to fit in with a hard nose coach like Popp, who by the way I think is the best coach in the league (that's right, better than Phil), because the past says that Jefferson is soft.
4. DALLAS MAVERICKS
Dirk with a summer off, the addition of the Matrix and this team seams ready to make a deep playoff run. Problem here, they didn't get Gortat or Bass. The starters got better, the bench got worse. I wonder how that plays out? For sure though, Dirk is due for a huge year.
5. UTAH JAZZ
Motivation will be the key word here. D Will is the best pg in the league. Did I just say that? Let me repeat it one more time. D Will is the best pg in the league. Now you're saying I'm crazy. Let me explain. In the playoffs, I'm taking D Will over CP3. Sorry folks, I'm about winning and in my mind the regular season doesn't count. Booz is about $, who doesn't see him averaging 20 and 10, not to mention Millsap can fill in at the 3 or the 4 when AK47 decides to take a night off. Then another weapon in Okur. Then the second best coach in the league in Sloan (yep I dissed Phil again). They will be ready this season.
6. PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS
I wanted to put Phoenix here, but Portland is too deep. They could go a lot higher too if Oden ever lives up to any kind of potential. The addition of Miller will stabilize the pg position if MacMillan ever realizes that Blake should be coming off the bench. Aldridge is a future perennial All-Star, problem is he needs to rebound and defend better. Martell Webster should provide an outside threat they didn't have last season at the 3 position and Brandon Roy is one of the most complete guards. It's hard to identify a total weakness in his game.
7. PHOENIX SUNS
It's back to the run and gun, fun in the sun, offense. STAT is back and looks mighty impressive thus far, but this team can't get past this position unless he becomes the same type of force on the defensive end. I think the Suns have two of the worst defenders in the league with Amare and J Rich, then there is Nash who sometimes tries, but at 35 he doesn't have the ability to defend the quicker point guards in the West and they will run circles around him. They'll be fun to watch, but nobody will be watching them after the first round.
8. NEW ORLEANS HORNETS
They have the most dominant pg in the league with CP3, most dominant doesn't translate to best. That's the difference between him and D Will. He has to do so much for this team, does anybody believe he might be frustrated with the Chandler-Okafor trade? Shinn once again cutting costs on his payroll. He's dismantled anything Charlotte could have had and now has dismantled a possible contender. Okafor reminds me of a Honda Accord. He'll last for 15 years but no one will ever recognize him for it.
9. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Does anybody think the Warriors will have 10 games with less than 100 points? Does anybody think that half the Warriors opponents will avg. 115+ points? Don Nelson needs to check in to the Cuckoo Nest. It's one thing to constantly mess with veterans minds, but it's too much young talent that he is influencing with his nonsense now. I'm not sure how Golden State's front office management can stand to look at this every day. His leadership from a coaching standpoint with this team is worse than Isiah's with the Knicks. Don't even get me started on Capt. Jack. I could only pull for him if he was a Laker.
10. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES
Debo Zach Randolph, the Answer, Rudy Gay, OJ Mustard over Mayo, and Pau's little brother. Not a bad combination save for the fact that none of them have won in the league outside of AI's small run with Larry back in the day. This team has 3 of the most selfish players in the entire league when it comes to shot selection. How will this work? The best player on the team may average 8 shots a game and that's Rudy Gay. He wasn't assertive last year with just Mayo, not sure how he's going to exist with AI and Randolph.
11. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
I like this young nucleus, but not enough to have them in a playoff run in the mighty West. KD might lead the league in scoring this year, Jeff Green is a surprisingly consistent young threat, and Westbrook is a game or two from soaring confidence that could push him into the elite of pg's. I loved the addition of Harden, but the bench is weak and Krstic hasn't been the same since his injuries. If Krstic can impose some will in the paint, they might even do better than 11th.
12. HOUSTON ROCKETS
I was ready to put Minnesota here until Kevin Love went out for the next 8-10 weeks. This team has dropped though and they have fallen hard. They were solid with Artest because he willed them to play hard and he also could break down defenses. He provided leadership that TMac and Yao never have provided. Ariza is an average player who looked great on a great team. Scola is a bright spot here in one room full of darkness. It's too bad for McGrady. He was one of the most prolific scorer's in his time, but its hard for me to see him making a comeback at this point.
13. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
I love Big Al, but he is struggling returning to the court from his injury and now with Love out their frontline is decimated. Big Al will be back but this team will be lucky to win 35 games this year. I love their pick for Johnny Flynn which is why I didn't understand the Rubio hype. Sometimes this international craze for players really ticks me off. Flynn proved himself time in and time out throughout his last year at the Cuse and now he's got to live through the Rubio crazy. I guess that's why he put up nice numbers in the preseason which I believe proves how valuable he will be one day. Beating out Sessions was no small feat. Sessions played very well at the end of the season last year.
14. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
BD is a complete waste of talent, Al Thornton never was taught how to pass, Camby's health is worse than Chandler's, and Kaman can be beat in the post by my mother. However, Griffin will be a star if he doesn't succomb to the losing of the Clippers and Eric Gordon can flat out score. So while there are a couple positives to this team, it's about the average of their yearly positives. 2 positives to the millions of negatives for this franchise.
15. SACRAMENTO KINGS
Shaq said it best. The Queens are back! These boys are bad, worse than the Nets. Kevin Martin has a man's one track mind to scoring and I'm not sure why they are trying to kill the confidence of Spencer Hawes who played very well in April along with Jason Thompson, a surprise pleasure at the end of the season. Tyreke Evans will be in the running for ROY because he will certainly get the time on this team.
NBA FINALS PREDICTION
The Lake Show in 7 over the Celtics, why? DOBERMAMBA! Wayne said it best "Pass me the d*mn ball, I don't need a pick at all"
Bring on Oct. 27th, let the games begin
1. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
After playing a game of addition by subtraction with Artest coming to town, the Lake Show has not only solidified its stranglehold on the West but on the rest of league as well. With Bynum healthy again, this team has very little weaknesses. Did I mention they have the best player on the planet? I mean the Dobermamba himself will only be needed on some nights. The only thing to worry about is will Odom be able to keep up with his new party life and Khloe with his basketball commitment?
2. DENVER NUGGETS
Teams in the West made moves, but I don't think anybody pushed past the Nuggets. Big Shot is one of the top 3 leaders in the league. Is it any coincidence that it didn't matter what conference he is in, he returned to the conference finals? Unfortunately he's not one of the best players which is where he will need Melo to bounce back from an subpar 08-09 campaign. This team is athletic, they can shoot the ball, they can post Melo, they have almost all of it. They just don't have the equalizer to Kobe.
3. SAN ANTONIO SPURS
Health is the key with this team and I'm a little scared to put them this high given they couldn't hold up last year, but neither is Dallas a relatively healthy team either so edge goes to championship pedigree here. There's not much that separates 3-8 in the West like the East. One thing I don't see is how Richard Jefferson is going to fit in with a hard nose coach like Popp, who by the way I think is the best coach in the league (that's right, better than Phil), because the past says that Jefferson is soft.
4. DALLAS MAVERICKS
Dirk with a summer off, the addition of the Matrix and this team seams ready to make a deep playoff run. Problem here, they didn't get Gortat or Bass. The starters got better, the bench got worse. I wonder how that plays out? For sure though, Dirk is due for a huge year.
5. UTAH JAZZ
Motivation will be the key word here. D Will is the best pg in the league. Did I just say that? Let me repeat it one more time. D Will is the best pg in the league. Now you're saying I'm crazy. Let me explain. In the playoffs, I'm taking D Will over CP3. Sorry folks, I'm about winning and in my mind the regular season doesn't count. Booz is about $, who doesn't see him averaging 20 and 10, not to mention Millsap can fill in at the 3 or the 4 when AK47 decides to take a night off. Then another weapon in Okur. Then the second best coach in the league in Sloan (yep I dissed Phil again). They will be ready this season.
6. PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS
I wanted to put Phoenix here, but Portland is too deep. They could go a lot higher too if Oden ever lives up to any kind of potential. The addition of Miller will stabilize the pg position if MacMillan ever realizes that Blake should be coming off the bench. Aldridge is a future perennial All-Star, problem is he needs to rebound and defend better. Martell Webster should provide an outside threat they didn't have last season at the 3 position and Brandon Roy is one of the most complete guards. It's hard to identify a total weakness in his game.
7. PHOENIX SUNS
It's back to the run and gun, fun in the sun, offense. STAT is back and looks mighty impressive thus far, but this team can't get past this position unless he becomes the same type of force on the defensive end. I think the Suns have two of the worst defenders in the league with Amare and J Rich, then there is Nash who sometimes tries, but at 35 he doesn't have the ability to defend the quicker point guards in the West and they will run circles around him. They'll be fun to watch, but nobody will be watching them after the first round.
8. NEW ORLEANS HORNETS
They have the most dominant pg in the league with CP3, most dominant doesn't translate to best. That's the difference between him and D Will. He has to do so much for this team, does anybody believe he might be frustrated with the Chandler-Okafor trade? Shinn once again cutting costs on his payroll. He's dismantled anything Charlotte could have had and now has dismantled a possible contender. Okafor reminds me of a Honda Accord. He'll last for 15 years but no one will ever recognize him for it.
9. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Does anybody think the Warriors will have 10 games with less than 100 points? Does anybody think that half the Warriors opponents will avg. 115+ points? Don Nelson needs to check in to the Cuckoo Nest. It's one thing to constantly mess with veterans minds, but it's too much young talent that he is influencing with his nonsense now. I'm not sure how Golden State's front office management can stand to look at this every day. His leadership from a coaching standpoint with this team is worse than Isiah's with the Knicks. Don't even get me started on Capt. Jack. I could only pull for him if he was a Laker.
10. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES
Debo Zach Randolph, the Answer, Rudy Gay, OJ Mustard over Mayo, and Pau's little brother. Not a bad combination save for the fact that none of them have won in the league outside of AI's small run with Larry back in the day. This team has 3 of the most selfish players in the entire league when it comes to shot selection. How will this work? The best player on the team may average 8 shots a game and that's Rudy Gay. He wasn't assertive last year with just Mayo, not sure how he's going to exist with AI and Randolph.
11. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
I like this young nucleus, but not enough to have them in a playoff run in the mighty West. KD might lead the league in scoring this year, Jeff Green is a surprisingly consistent young threat, and Westbrook is a game or two from soaring confidence that could push him into the elite of pg's. I loved the addition of Harden, but the bench is weak and Krstic hasn't been the same since his injuries. If Krstic can impose some will in the paint, they might even do better than 11th.
12. HOUSTON ROCKETS
I was ready to put Minnesota here until Kevin Love went out for the next 8-10 weeks. This team has dropped though and they have fallen hard. They were solid with Artest because he willed them to play hard and he also could break down defenses. He provided leadership that TMac and Yao never have provided. Ariza is an average player who looked great on a great team. Scola is a bright spot here in one room full of darkness. It's too bad for McGrady. He was one of the most prolific scorer's in his time, but its hard for me to see him making a comeback at this point.
13. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
I love Big Al, but he is struggling returning to the court from his injury and now with Love out their frontline is decimated. Big Al will be back but this team will be lucky to win 35 games this year. I love their pick for Johnny Flynn which is why I didn't understand the Rubio hype. Sometimes this international craze for players really ticks me off. Flynn proved himself time in and time out throughout his last year at the Cuse and now he's got to live through the Rubio crazy. I guess that's why he put up nice numbers in the preseason which I believe proves how valuable he will be one day. Beating out Sessions was no small feat. Sessions played very well at the end of the season last year.
14. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
BD is a complete waste of talent, Al Thornton never was taught how to pass, Camby's health is worse than Chandler's, and Kaman can be beat in the post by my mother. However, Griffin will be a star if he doesn't succomb to the losing of the Clippers and Eric Gordon can flat out score. So while there are a couple positives to this team, it's about the average of their yearly positives. 2 positives to the millions of negatives for this franchise.
15. SACRAMENTO KINGS
Shaq said it best. The Queens are back! These boys are bad, worse than the Nets. Kevin Martin has a man's one track mind to scoring and I'm not sure why they are trying to kill the confidence of Spencer Hawes who played very well in April along with Jason Thompson, a surprise pleasure at the end of the season. Tyreke Evans will be in the running for ROY because he will certainly get the time on this team.
NBA FINALS PREDICTION
The Lake Show in 7 over the Celtics, why? DOBERMAMBA! Wayne said it best "Pass me the d*mn ball, I don't need a pick at all"
Bring on Oct. 27th, let the games begin
I just read my man Monday Morning Point Guard's last blog about the conference championships that don't exist in the Big 11 and the PAC-10. Even though we disagree on A LOT of subjects, I have to painfully admit, that he is right on this one. I listen to the Sports Reporters on ESPN pretty much every Sunday morning. And during college football season, it is preposterous that John Saunders sits up there every Sunday morning and tries to defend this current system in college football. The fact that some teams have to play an extra game to reach a nice bowl game or perhaps the national championship is ludicrous while other teams get the added value of not playing that possible other ranked team in their conference to just get out of their respective conference to reach the national title game. The PAC-10 and the Big 11 know that they are currently one team conferences (Iowa will lose at Ohio State) and because of that there is no way they want to take a chance to actually diminish their probability of reaching the title game since it is lower than almost every other BCS conference (outside the ACC). Preach on Monday Morning Point Guard.
NBA SEASON EASTERN CONFERENCE PREVIEW
As for my first entry ever, it is definitely an exciting day for me. I'm here to give to you, the people, my predictions for the NBA season, the best league on the planet, the best sport on the planet. No 24 seconds today, we'll start that later. Today is about breaking down some good teams, some average teams, and some totally "stank" teams. Let's start with the Eastern Conference.
1. BOSTON CELTICS
Of course there is a lot of discussion about who the top team is in the East, but mine is for the hated Celtics (I mean I'm a Lakers fan). So this shows the type of respect I believe the Truth, Garnettzilla, and Jesus Shuttlesworth deserve. However, they go as far as Rajon "Scissorhands" Rondo takes them.
2. ORLANDO MAGIC
You might be thinking how the h*ll can the best player in the league with the addition of "The Big Lazy" not be No. 1 in the East? One, LBJ is not the best player in the league, and two, Orlando's transactions this summer will be more effective than Cleveland's. The addition of Vinsanity, getting Gortat back, and adding big Bass trump any move Danny Ferry made.
3. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Now, I just completely dogged them but they are miles ahead of the 4th best team in the East. However, they don't go any farther until LBJ can dominate the game from 15-20 feet and not 5 ft in. That needs to be Shaq's territory only. It's still interesting to me how patient Cleveland has been with Mike Brown. Let's see how long that last without a Finals appearance this year.
4. ATLANTA HAWKS
I was tempted to place Washington here until Jamison's shoulder became questionable. The Hawks are good, but Joe Johnson is a reluctant superstar. I don't know how you can be reluctant when every kid dreams of being the man in the league. I always wondered why he was so quick to leave Phoenix but was it because he didn't want the limelight? Too bad the Hawks actually got good. To turn down $60 mil is bold statement in a free agency class that is loaded and a struggling economy. Atlanta better hope JJ is ready to live up to what he thinks his value is.
5. WASHINGTON WIZARDS
Marc Stein and the boys at ESPN seem to think the Wizards have maximized their potential. I disagree and here's why. A healthy Arenas and Butler are not even in their 30s yet, a hopefully healthy Jamison is a steady rock. The return of B Wood and the additions of fire power in Mike Miller and Foye can prove fruitful. The Wiz have plenty of offense in a conference that is offensively handicapped. That should win them many regular season games.
6. CHICAGO BULLS
D Rose will have a lot of pressure to take his game to another level consistenly all season, but I'm convinced he can do it. I think they upgraded at the wing with Salmons and leaving Gordon out there for Detroit. Salmons can do more than just score. Deng is back and healthy. And I love this front line of Noah, Miller, Thomas, and the rookie James Johnson. All of them bring something different to the table. That bodes well against other frontlines in the East.
7. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Big question marks surround this team. Elton Brand's health? Lou Will replacing slow paced but effective Andre Miller? Iguodala's shot selection each and every night? However, I like Eddie Jordan and I like his 2 guard offense. If these players can adapt quickly to it, they have the combination of inside and out to be a balanced attack. Speights and Dalembert will help protect the paint leaving Brand to concentrate on scoring the ball and creating other opportunities for his teammates, something he has never been able to do before.
8. MIAMI HEAT
The ONLY reason they are here is because they are the ONLY team left with a player that can carry his team on his back into the playoffs. This team is bad otherwise. Chalmers is decent, but he's not great. Beasley is a disaster waiting to happen. Haslem is consistent, but JO runs a one-legged race every night. The bench is inconsistent. Pat Riley has a lot of decisions to make at the Feb. trade deadline if he hopes to keep D Wade in Miami or he truly will go MIA.
9. INDIANA PACERS
Next best player left on a halfway decent team, Danny Granger. This boy is a true warrior. I'm liking Hibbert more and more each day and if he can neutralize the middle the Pacers can compete for a playoff spot. I like Troy Murphy but he needs to bang a little more on offense. They are weak at guard, but Brandon Rush has potential. I think Dunleavy is done. Don't be surprised to see him on the way out soon.
10. TORONTO RAPTORS
I'm still not sure why Hedo came here, unless it was purely about the $. But isn't he too old to think that way? I would be thinking championships and clearly he wasn't by signing with this disaster of a franchise. Can somebody explain to me why we have a team in Canada in the first place? Who the hell wants to play up there in that cold azz place where your muscles are constantly tight and you're a hamstring away from the disabled list?
11. NEW YORK KNICKS
This won't be D'Antoni's year, but he's well on his way. One of my boys keeps telling me to expect Duhon to have a huge year. Not sure, but I want to tell him I could have a huge year if we took 100+ shots a night. Want to know why none of these guys will get great contract offers in 2010? BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT AS GOOD AS THEIR NUMBERS
12. DETROIT PISTONS
Many of you will say this is low, but let me put something out there. I don't like Ben Gordon, I don't like Villanueva. Bringing back Ben Wallace didn't do anything for me either and Kwame Brown, nough said. I feel sorry for Rip Hamilton and what he has to deal with up there. I think Joe D got big headed and lost his mind thinking that Ben Gordon and Villanueva can carry Detroit to the playoffs. Last time I checked UCONN competed in the NCAA.
13. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS
I'd like to put them higher, but d*mn what did they do to convince me they can make a run at the playoffs? Felton has hit his ceiling, I'm taller than DJ, and my soon to be surgically repaired knee is healthier than Chandler's whole body. Diaw is this year's new Sean May apparently. LB should get out while he still has a chance.
14. MILWAUKEE BUCKS
It looks like Brandon Jennings is going to be good. Anybody who can muster 7 ast a night in the preseason with this team has to have some kind of talent. Redd will ball cause he needs a new contract, and I like Bogut if his back holds up, but I don't like much else on this team. They'll play hard, but they will lose harder.
15. NEW JERSEY NETS
I have to admit, I don't miss much, but I missed Devin Harris. This boy can play some ball. I love Brook Lopez, I expect a big year from him. Too bad no one else on this team is ready yet. See ya in Brooklyn soon.
1. BOSTON CELTICS
Of course there is a lot of discussion about who the top team is in the East, but mine is for the hated Celtics (I mean I'm a Lakers fan). So this shows the type of respect I believe the Truth, Garnettzilla, and Jesus Shuttlesworth deserve. However, they go as far as Rajon "Scissorhands" Rondo takes them.
2. ORLANDO MAGIC
You might be thinking how the h*ll can the best player in the league with the addition of "The Big Lazy" not be No. 1 in the East? One, LBJ is not the best player in the league, and two, Orlando's transactions this summer will be more effective than Cleveland's. The addition of Vinsanity, getting Gortat back, and adding big Bass trump any move Danny Ferry made.
3. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Now, I just completely dogged them but they are miles ahead of the 4th best team in the East. However, they don't go any farther until LBJ can dominate the game from 15-20 feet and not 5 ft in. That needs to be Shaq's territory only. It's still interesting to me how patient Cleveland has been with Mike Brown. Let's see how long that last without a Finals appearance this year.
4. ATLANTA HAWKS
I was tempted to place Washington here until Jamison's shoulder became questionable. The Hawks are good, but Joe Johnson is a reluctant superstar. I don't know how you can be reluctant when every kid dreams of being the man in the league. I always wondered why he was so quick to leave Phoenix but was it because he didn't want the limelight? Too bad the Hawks actually got good. To turn down $60 mil is bold statement in a free agency class that is loaded and a struggling economy. Atlanta better hope JJ is ready to live up to what he thinks his value is.
5. WASHINGTON WIZARDS
Marc Stein and the boys at ESPN seem to think the Wizards have maximized their potential. I disagree and here's why. A healthy Arenas and Butler are not even in their 30s yet, a hopefully healthy Jamison is a steady rock. The return of B Wood and the additions of fire power in Mike Miller and Foye can prove fruitful. The Wiz have plenty of offense in a conference that is offensively handicapped. That should win them many regular season games.
6. CHICAGO BULLS
D Rose will have a lot of pressure to take his game to another level consistenly all season, but I'm convinced he can do it. I think they upgraded at the wing with Salmons and leaving Gordon out there for Detroit. Salmons can do more than just score. Deng is back and healthy. And I love this front line of Noah, Miller, Thomas, and the rookie James Johnson. All of them bring something different to the table. That bodes well against other frontlines in the East.
7. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Big question marks surround this team. Elton Brand's health? Lou Will replacing slow paced but effective Andre Miller? Iguodala's shot selection each and every night? However, I like Eddie Jordan and I like his 2 guard offense. If these players can adapt quickly to it, they have the combination of inside and out to be a balanced attack. Speights and Dalembert will help protect the paint leaving Brand to concentrate on scoring the ball and creating other opportunities for his teammates, something he has never been able to do before.
8. MIAMI HEAT
The ONLY reason they are here is because they are the ONLY team left with a player that can carry his team on his back into the playoffs. This team is bad otherwise. Chalmers is decent, but he's not great. Beasley is a disaster waiting to happen. Haslem is consistent, but JO runs a one-legged race every night. The bench is inconsistent. Pat Riley has a lot of decisions to make at the Feb. trade deadline if he hopes to keep D Wade in Miami or he truly will go MIA.
9. INDIANA PACERS
Next best player left on a halfway decent team, Danny Granger. This boy is a true warrior. I'm liking Hibbert more and more each day and if he can neutralize the middle the Pacers can compete for a playoff spot. I like Troy Murphy but he needs to bang a little more on offense. They are weak at guard, but Brandon Rush has potential. I think Dunleavy is done. Don't be surprised to see him on the way out soon.
10. TORONTO RAPTORS
I'm still not sure why Hedo came here, unless it was purely about the $. But isn't he too old to think that way? I would be thinking championships and clearly he wasn't by signing with this disaster of a franchise. Can somebody explain to me why we have a team in Canada in the first place? Who the hell wants to play up there in that cold azz place where your muscles are constantly tight and you're a hamstring away from the disabled list?
11. NEW YORK KNICKS
This won't be D'Antoni's year, but he's well on his way. One of my boys keeps telling me to expect Duhon to have a huge year. Not sure, but I want to tell him I could have a huge year if we took 100+ shots a night. Want to know why none of these guys will get great contract offers in 2010? BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT AS GOOD AS THEIR NUMBERS
12. DETROIT PISTONS
Many of you will say this is low, but let me put something out there. I don't like Ben Gordon, I don't like Villanueva. Bringing back Ben Wallace didn't do anything for me either and Kwame Brown, nough said. I feel sorry for Rip Hamilton and what he has to deal with up there. I think Joe D got big headed and lost his mind thinking that Ben Gordon and Villanueva can carry Detroit to the playoffs. Last time I checked UCONN competed in the NCAA.
13. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS
I'd like to put them higher, but d*mn what did they do to convince me they can make a run at the playoffs? Felton has hit his ceiling, I'm taller than DJ, and my soon to be surgically repaired knee is healthier than Chandler's whole body. Diaw is this year's new Sean May apparently. LB should get out while he still has a chance.
14. MILWAUKEE BUCKS
It looks like Brandon Jennings is going to be good. Anybody who can muster 7 ast a night in the preseason with this team has to have some kind of talent. Redd will ball cause he needs a new contract, and I like Bogut if his back holds up, but I don't like much else on this team. They'll play hard, but they will lose harder.
15. NEW JERSEY NETS
I have to admit, I don't miss much, but I missed Devin Harris. This boy can play some ball. I love Brook Lopez, I expect a big year from him. Too bad no one else on this team is ready yet. See ya in Brooklyn soon.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
