I wanted to have this up yesterday, but again life is just too busy. Even today I really don't have the time, but I will do my best to belt this out in the short time that I have.
The NBA tipped its 2009-10 season last night with a quartet of games, including the LA Lakers being awarded their championship rings and also awarded the chance to start their season against the LA Clippers (minus top pick Blake Griffin).
So much happened in the offseason with the draft and a great many players switching teams. Did the Cavaliers get better with the addition of Shaq? Did the Celtics improve with Rasheed Wallace coming off their bench? Is Ron Artest an upgrade over Trevor Ariza for the Lakers?
With the great many moves that happened this offseason it was still sort of a surprise because, well, the rich got richer. There weren't too many great moves happening with the lower echelon of teams, but the top teams getting even better players. Now, of course this can all back fire with lack of chemistry, but it might also be a safe bet that the great teams from a year ago will again be great this year.
A few teams to watch out for and moves I have loved:
San Antonio Spurs: I have never been a fan of the Spurs and I mock them whenever I get the chance because their brand of basketball is just so boring. I cringe whenever I think of that horrible Spurs-Pistons finals from a few years ago. But, the Spurs not only got a bit younger, but they got better. They bring in a quality small forward in Richard Jefferson and a decent veteran in Antonio McDyess. Not only that, but they may have gotten a steal on draft night with DaJuan Blair falling to them in the second round - he has looked like a beast so far in the preseason.
Washington Wizards: I had the luxury of seeing this team play already last night as the knocked off the Dallas Mavericks, and one thing is for sure - Gilbert Arenas is back. The Wizards defeated a pretty darn good Mavs team with Caron Butler giving a subpar performance and Antawn Jamison missing the game due to injury. That bodes well for this team. If Gilbert stays healthy this is a team to watch.
Orlando Magic: Talk about a team not wanting to settle. Coming off an NBA Finals appearance the Magic blew up their team, but kept three of their main players (Dwight Howard, Jameer Nelson and Rashard Lewis). Gone is premier rookie Courtney Lee, backup point guard Rafer Alston and do-it-all Hedo Turkoglu. But, they bring in Vince Carter to replace Turkoglu, Ryan Anderson to replace Lee, and a move that isn't getting talked enough about is the return of Jason Williams to backup Nelson. And all three (including newcomer Brandon Bass) have looked great in preseason.
Predictions:
East Playoffs (in order)
Boston Celtics
Orlando Magic
Cleveland Cavaliers
Washington Wizards
Chicago Bulls
Atlanta Hawks
Miami Heat
Toronto Raptors
West Playoffs (in order)
LA Lakers
San Antonio Spurs
Denver Nuggets
Portland Trailblazers
Utah Jazz
New Orleans Hornets
Dallas Mavericks
Oklahoma City Thunder
MVP: LeBron James
ROY: Blake Griffin (if healthy)
COY: Flip Saunders
DEF: Dwight Howard
6th: Rasheed Wallace
UPDATE: I realized after I sent this that I didn't finish it. So here are my final predictions.
All-NBA
First Team
Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Dwight Howard, Chris Paul, Kevin Durant
Second Team
Dwyane Wade, Deron Williams, Chris Bosh, Tim Duncan, Paul Pierce
Third Team
Brandon Roy, Tony Parker, Dirk Nowitzki, Carmelo Anthony, Pau Gasol
NBA Finals
Orlando Magic over San Antonio Spurs
Showing posts with label NBA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NBA. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Revist: NBA Predictions
This is technically my second revist to this subject, but due to the agonizingly slow rate at which the awards are being handed out - it's almost a necessity.
Anyway, this will be quick. And, I don't have much else to write about as of this moment, hopefully tomorrow.
The NBA announce the All-NBA teams today, and I have to admit I was pretty darn close in my selections.
First Team:
Dwayne Wade, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Dirk Nowitzki, Dwight Howard
Second Team:
Chris Paul, Brandon Roy, Tim Duncan, Paul Pierce, Yao Ming
Third Team:
Carmelo Anthony, Chauncey Billups, Pau Gasol, Shaquille O'Neal, Tony Park
Now, I had three of the four first teamers selected correctly (Wade, Bryant, James). I also had Paul on the first squad, but he made second - and I selected Amare Stoudamire, who didn't make any team - mostly due to some injuries throughout the season.
As for the second team, I had selected Nowitzki and Howard, who both made the first team, but I got Roy and Duncan correct. I had selected Pierce and Yao Ming for my third team, however. My lone whiff was Deron Williams, who had a pretty strong year despite playing mostly on one leg due to an injry.
As for the third squad, I only was able to select Parker correctly. I totally missed on the Nuggets this year, but the trade for Billups not only elevated his game, but Anthony's as well. I also missed on Gasol, but I am not apologizing for not selecting O'Neal - despite a great season, who knew he had anything left?
Another rough time for Kevin Martin in Sacramento this season with injuries and a horrible team didn't help my selection of him on my third team. Also, Chris Bosh had a down year in Toronto, which really surprised a lot of people.
This should be my final NBA blog until the conclusion of the NBA Finals in June unless something amazing happens during the playoffs (which basically did with the Boston-Chicago series, but I will talk about that in the wrap up blog after the season).
Anyway, this will be quick. And, I don't have much else to write about as of this moment, hopefully tomorrow.
The NBA announce the All-NBA teams today, and I have to admit I was pretty darn close in my selections.
First Team:
Dwayne Wade, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Dirk Nowitzki, Dwight Howard
Second Team:
Chris Paul, Brandon Roy, Tim Duncan, Paul Pierce, Yao Ming
Third Team:
Carmelo Anthony, Chauncey Billups, Pau Gasol, Shaquille O'Neal, Tony Park
Now, I had three of the four first teamers selected correctly (Wade, Bryant, James). I also had Paul on the first squad, but he made second - and I selected Amare Stoudamire, who didn't make any team - mostly due to some injuries throughout the season.
As for the second team, I had selected Nowitzki and Howard, who both made the first team, but I got Roy and Duncan correct. I had selected Pierce and Yao Ming for my third team, however. My lone whiff was Deron Williams, who had a pretty strong year despite playing mostly on one leg due to an injry.
As for the third squad, I only was able to select Parker correctly. I totally missed on the Nuggets this year, but the trade for Billups not only elevated his game, but Anthony's as well. I also missed on Gasol, but I am not apologizing for not selecting O'Neal - despite a great season, who knew he had anything left?
Another rough time for Kevin Martin in Sacramento this season with injuries and a horrible team didn't help my selection of him on my third team. Also, Chris Bosh had a down year in Toronto, which really surprised a lot of people.
This should be my final NBA blog until the conclusion of the NBA Finals in June unless something amazing happens during the playoffs (which basically did with the Boston-Chicago series, but I will talk about that in the wrap up blog after the season).
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Revisit: NBA Predictions
OK, I have slacked again with the postings - yet another job has been due here at work, plus I have been in the middle of getting everything completed for summer/grad school.
No excuse, I know, but I have a handful of ideas for blogs over the next few days. Here is the first and if I have time another will follow today.
Back in October at the beginning of the NBA season I, like I do in most sports, selected my playoff and award predictions for the season.
So here were my predictions:
The playoffs began this weekend and out of my selections, I didn't do half bad.
For the East, I was exactly correct in my division winners with Boston, Cleveland and Orlando. As for my playoff teams, I was off by two - Chicago, Detroit and Miami all made the playoffs, but so did Philadelphia and Atlanta. My selections of New Jersey (finished 12th) and Toronto (finished 13th) were a bit off.
As for the West, I was only able to correctly select the Lakers as a divisional winner. However, both New Orleans and Utah made the playoffs. My lone miss for the West was Denver, who actually captured the Northwest division, while Phoenix just missed the playoffs in finishing ninth.
As of now, the only individual award handed out was Coach of the Year and that was given to Mike Brown of Cleveland - who definitely deserved it. The way the Hornets fell into the bottom half of the Western conference bracket, my selection of Scott was a bit off.
I believe I will get my MVP selection correct with LeBron James. My Rookie pick is going to be wrong, as Derrick Rose of Chicago will most likely win. Rodney Stuckey for 6th man blew up in my face as he ended up starting, so Jason Terry of Dallas will be the winner this year. I am not sure about my defensive selection - it could be him or it could be Orlando's Dwight Howard.
Playoff predictions:
WEST
LA vs. Utah - LA
Denver vs. New Orleans - New Orleans
San Antonio vs. Dallas - Dallas
Houston vs. Portland - Portland
EAST
Cleveland vs. Detroit - Cleveland
Boston vs. Chicago - Chicago
Orlando vs. Philadelphia - Orlando
Atlanta vs. Miami - Miami
No excuse, I know, but I have a handful of ideas for blogs over the next few days. Here is the first and if I have time another will follow today.
Back in October at the beginning of the NBA season I, like I do in most sports, selected my playoff and award predictions for the season.
So here were my predictions:
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Division: Boston Celtics
Central Division: Cleveland Cavaliers
Southeast Division: Orlando Magic
Other Playoff Teams: Detroit Pistons, Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors, New Jersey Nets.
Champion: Orlando Magic
Western Conference
Northwest Conference: Utah Jazz
Pacific Conference: L.A. Lakers
Southwest Conference: New Orleans Hornets
Other Playoff Teams: Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Portland Trail Blazers.
Champion: New Orleans Hornets
NBA Champion: New Orleans Hornets
Individual Awards
MVP: LeBron James
6th Man: Rodney Stuckey
Rookie: Michael Beasley
Coach: Byron Scott
Defensive Player: Ron Artest
All NBA
First Team
Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, Amare Stoudemire, Chris Paul
Second Team
Tim Duncan, Deron Williams, Dwight Howard, Dirk Nowitzki, Brandon Roy
Third Team
Paul Pierce, Yao Ming, Chris Bosh, Tony Parker, Kevin Martin
The playoffs began this weekend and out of my selections, I didn't do half bad.
For the East, I was exactly correct in my division winners with Boston, Cleveland and Orlando. As for my playoff teams, I was off by two - Chicago, Detroit and Miami all made the playoffs, but so did Philadelphia and Atlanta. My selections of New Jersey (finished 12th) and Toronto (finished 13th) were a bit off.
As for the West, I was only able to correctly select the Lakers as a divisional winner. However, both New Orleans and Utah made the playoffs. My lone miss for the West was Denver, who actually captured the Northwest division, while Phoenix just missed the playoffs in finishing ninth.
As of now, the only individual award handed out was Coach of the Year and that was given to Mike Brown of Cleveland - who definitely deserved it. The way the Hornets fell into the bottom half of the Western conference bracket, my selection of Scott was a bit off.
I believe I will get my MVP selection correct with LeBron James. My Rookie pick is going to be wrong, as Derrick Rose of Chicago will most likely win. Rodney Stuckey for 6th man blew up in my face as he ended up starting, so Jason Terry of Dallas will be the winner this year. I am not sure about my defensive selection - it could be him or it could be Orlando's Dwight Howard.
Playoff predictions:
WEST
LA vs. Utah - LA
Denver vs. New Orleans - New Orleans
San Antonio vs. Dallas - Dallas
Houston vs. Portland - Portland
EAST
Cleveland vs. Detroit - Cleveland
Boston vs. Chicago - Chicago
Orlando vs. Philadelphia - Orlando
Atlanta vs. Miami - Miami
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Rookie All Star Guesses
The 2009 NBA All-Star game will be played in Phoenix this season during the three-day period of February 13-15.
For the most part, I try to take in as much of the festivities as possible - but my favorite events are the NBA Rookie All-Star game and the 3-point shootout. To a lesser extent, I also enjoy the slam dunk contest and other events, but not as much as the other two.
So, before the team is announced I thought I would look over the two classes and see who would be making it to the rookie challenge this season.
For those that do not know, a few years ago the rookie challenge changed from an all rookie event, to the Rookies vs. Sophomores. Therefore, only nine players are usually selected from each class.
Also, as you will see, I am not totally sure about the rules for selection - but I will explain that after my picks.
For the Sophomores:
Kevin Durant (Thunder)
Daequan Cook (Heat)
Rodney Stuckey (Pistons)
Al Horford (Hawks)
Wilson Chandler (Knicks)
Luis Scola (Rockets)
Mike Conley (Grizzlies)
Jeff Green (Thunder)
Aaron Brooks (Rockets)
For the Rookies:
Derrick Rose (Bulls)
Michael Beasley (Heat)
OJ Mayo (Grizzlies)
Brooke Lopez (Nets)
DJ Augustine (Bobcats)
Eric Gordon (Clippers)
Greg Oden (Blazers)
Kevin Love (T-wolves)
Rudy Fernandez (Blazers)
Now, my main concern is for Oden - who technically would have been a sophomore had he not been injured for his entire rookie season - in my mind he is a rookie, but I am not sure where the league stands on this. That being said, I may also include Marc Gasol in the rookie list of the Grizzlies, who is having a great year as well.
That's funny, the rookie list was a lot harder to select because there are so many rookies on the cusp. So many on the fringe of being great, so narrowing it down to nine was difficult.
The sophomore list was actually hard as well, but for another reason - most of them just aren't having great years. It was difficult finding nine able bodies - in fact Al Horford is injured right now but should be able to play. Yi Jianlian of the Nets would have been eligible, but as of now is injured as well - and I think too injured to be able to play in this game.
Well, those are my predictions. I was looking to see when the announcement would be made, but I can't find it anywhere - so when they are announced we'll have to compare my predictions.
For the most part, I try to take in as much of the festivities as possible - but my favorite events are the NBA Rookie All-Star game and the 3-point shootout. To a lesser extent, I also enjoy the slam dunk contest and other events, but not as much as the other two.
So, before the team is announced I thought I would look over the two classes and see who would be making it to the rookie challenge this season.
For those that do not know, a few years ago the rookie challenge changed from an all rookie event, to the Rookies vs. Sophomores. Therefore, only nine players are usually selected from each class.
Also, as you will see, I am not totally sure about the rules for selection - but I will explain that after my picks.
For the Sophomores:
Kevin Durant (Thunder)
Daequan Cook (Heat)
Rodney Stuckey (Pistons)
Al Horford (Hawks)
Wilson Chandler (Knicks)
Luis Scola (Rockets)
Mike Conley (Grizzlies)
Jeff Green (Thunder)
Aaron Brooks (Rockets)
For the Rookies:
Derrick Rose (Bulls)
Michael Beasley (Heat)
OJ Mayo (Grizzlies)
Brooke Lopez (Nets)
DJ Augustine (Bobcats)
Eric Gordon (Clippers)
Greg Oden (Blazers)
Kevin Love (T-wolves)
Rudy Fernandez (Blazers)
Now, my main concern is for Oden - who technically would have been a sophomore had he not been injured for his entire rookie season - in my mind he is a rookie, but I am not sure where the league stands on this. That being said, I may also include Marc Gasol in the rookie list of the Grizzlies, who is having a great year as well.
That's funny, the rookie list was a lot harder to select because there are so many rookies on the cusp. So many on the fringe of being great, so narrowing it down to nine was difficult.
The sophomore list was actually hard as well, but for another reason - most of them just aren't having great years. It was difficult finding nine able bodies - in fact Al Horford is injured right now but should be able to play. Yi Jianlian of the Nets would have been eligible, but as of now is injured as well - and I think too injured to be able to play in this game.
Well, those are my predictions. I was looking to see when the announcement would be made, but I can't find it anywhere - so when they are announced we'll have to compare my predictions.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
NBA Predictions
Well, it's finally here.
The 2008-09 NBA Season kicked off last night with three games - and the premiere of 2007 No. 1 pick Greg Oden.
Of course, Oden didn't make it through the first half of the game as he injured his foot sometime during the first quarter - I am hoping he is not doomed to be on the injured list his entire career.
Anyway, basketball is my favorite sport, but much like football it can be a crapshoot when selecting the various winners. Almost every year a team comes of out of nowhere to make the playoffs, and sometimes even makes a run. And every year, teams suffer through injuries and/or make terrible trades.
So, take all of this with a grain of sand - but here are my predictions for the season.
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Division: Boston Celtics
Central Division: Cleveland Cavaliers
Southeast Division: Orlando Magic
Other Playoff Teams: Detroit Pistons, Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors, New Jersey Nets.
Champion: Orlando Magic
Western Conference
Northwest Conference: Utah Jazz
Pacific Conference: L.A. Lakers
Southwest Conference: New Orleans Hornets
Other Playoff Teams: Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Portland Trail Blazers.
Champion: New Orleans Hornets
NBA Champion: New Orleans Hornets
Individual Awards
MVP: LeBron James
6th Man: Rodney Stuckey
Rookie: Michael Beasley
Coach: Byron Scott
Defensive Player: Ron Artest
All NBA
First Team
Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, Amare Stoudemire, Chris Paul
Second Team
Tim Duncan, Deron Williams, Dwight Howard, Dirk Nowitzki, Brandon Roy
Third Team
Paul Pierce, Yao Ming, Chris Bosh, Tony Parker, Kevin Martin
There you have my predictions - they are in stone. They will not come to fruition.
Enjoy the season - or if you're a baseball fan, wait two weeks because Spring Training is about to start.
The 2008-09 NBA Season kicked off last night with three games - and the premiere of 2007 No. 1 pick Greg Oden.
Of course, Oden didn't make it through the first half of the game as he injured his foot sometime during the first quarter - I am hoping he is not doomed to be on the injured list his entire career.
Anyway, basketball is my favorite sport, but much like football it can be a crapshoot when selecting the various winners. Almost every year a team comes of out of nowhere to make the playoffs, and sometimes even makes a run. And every year, teams suffer through injuries and/or make terrible trades.
So, take all of this with a grain of sand - but here are my predictions for the season.
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Division: Boston Celtics
Central Division: Cleveland Cavaliers
Southeast Division: Orlando Magic
Other Playoff Teams: Detroit Pistons, Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors, New Jersey Nets.
Champion: Orlando Magic
Western Conference
Northwest Conference: Utah Jazz
Pacific Conference: L.A. Lakers
Southwest Conference: New Orleans Hornets
Other Playoff Teams: Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Portland Trail Blazers.
Champion: New Orleans Hornets
NBA Champion: New Orleans Hornets
Individual Awards
MVP: LeBron James
6th Man: Rodney Stuckey
Rookie: Michael Beasley
Coach: Byron Scott
Defensive Player: Ron Artest
All NBA
First Team
Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, Amare Stoudemire, Chris Paul
Second Team
Tim Duncan, Deron Williams, Dwight Howard, Dirk Nowitzki, Brandon Roy
Third Team
Paul Pierce, Yao Ming, Chris Bosh, Tony Parker, Kevin Martin
There you have my predictions - they are in stone. They will not come to fruition.
Enjoy the season - or if you're a baseball fan, wait two weeks because Spring Training is about to start.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Goodbye, Jason Williams
I was watching ESPNEWS the other night as I always do before falling asleep. For those of you who are not familiar with the programming, there is a small ticker on the bottom of the screen that announces the most important sports news throughout the day, or at least some of the most recent.
Well, like most people, my eyes go back and forth from the actual programming to the ticker, but sometimes I usually miss something.
The other night while I was watching, I could have sworn I saw something pertaining to Jason Williams, who just so happens to be my favorite NBA player.
Knowing that I had missed it, I waited until the news presented itself again - and it did.
To my surprise, my favorite NBA player had decided to retire just 10 years into his playing career.
As of today, no true news has been announced for the reasoning of this retirement. Williams has had a few years in a row where knee injuries has limited his playing time, and perhaps hindered his ability, but he was still a very capable NBA player - and still ahead of most point guards in the league.
The news is rather sudden, as I announced a month or two ago that Williams had signed a new contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, and would be backing up Baron Davis. So it sort of bewilders me that he has decided to call it quits without even heading into training camp.
Williams came into the league in 1998 as the No. 7 draft pick of the Sacramento Kings. Thanks to his street ball-like abilities, Williams became an instant hit with the fans, and with Vlade Divac, Peja Stojakovic and Chris Webber, led a talented Kings team into the playoffs for the first time in awhile.
After three seasons in Sacramento, the Kings gave up on Williams as they thought a player with turnover problems would never be able to lead them to the championship. So, Williams was shipped to Memphis for Mike Bibby.
While a Grizzlie, Williams helped lead a franchise who had never been to the playoffs, nor had a winning season, win over 50 games and make the playoffs. The Grizzlies were swept in both playoff contests, but were finally relevant.
That is until Memphis shipped Williams to the Miami Heat in one of the biggest trades ever. Williams became a member of the Heat along with James Posey and Antoine Walker, who joined Shaquille O'Neal and Dwyane Wade. In that season, Williams would win his first NBA championship.
To this date, the Sacramento Kings nor Mike Bibby have even been to the NBA Finals.
The past few seasons, Williams has been struck with the injury bug and his play had deminished because of it. He was still the eighth best in assist/turnover ratio last season, and even had a 34 point game against Orlando.
Although I hope this retirement is that via Brett Favre or Roger Clemens (meaning he'll be back soon), I am happy I got to see him play. He was very fun to watch, and his maturation as both a person and a player was great to see.
I'll miss you J-Dub.
Well, like most people, my eyes go back and forth from the actual programming to the ticker, but sometimes I usually miss something.
The other night while I was watching, I could have sworn I saw something pertaining to Jason Williams, who just so happens to be my favorite NBA player.
Knowing that I had missed it, I waited until the news presented itself again - and it did.
To my surprise, my favorite NBA player had decided to retire just 10 years into his playing career.
As of today, no true news has been announced for the reasoning of this retirement. Williams has had a few years in a row where knee injuries has limited his playing time, and perhaps hindered his ability, but he was still a very capable NBA player - and still ahead of most point guards in the league.
The news is rather sudden, as I announced a month or two ago that Williams had signed a new contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, and would be backing up Baron Davis. So it sort of bewilders me that he has decided to call it quits without even heading into training camp.
Williams came into the league in 1998 as the No. 7 draft pick of the Sacramento Kings. Thanks to his street ball-like abilities, Williams became an instant hit with the fans, and with Vlade Divac, Peja Stojakovic and Chris Webber, led a talented Kings team into the playoffs for the first time in awhile.
After three seasons in Sacramento, the Kings gave up on Williams as they thought a player with turnover problems would never be able to lead them to the championship. So, Williams was shipped to Memphis for Mike Bibby.
While a Grizzlie, Williams helped lead a franchise who had never been to the playoffs, nor had a winning season, win over 50 games and make the playoffs. The Grizzlies were swept in both playoff contests, but were finally relevant.
That is until Memphis shipped Williams to the Miami Heat in one of the biggest trades ever. Williams became a member of the Heat along with James Posey and Antoine Walker, who joined Shaquille O'Neal and Dwyane Wade. In that season, Williams would win his first NBA championship.
To this date, the Sacramento Kings nor Mike Bibby have even been to the NBA Finals.
The past few seasons, Williams has been struck with the injury bug and his play had deminished because of it. He was still the eighth best in assist/turnover ratio last season, and even had a 34 point game against Orlando.
Although I hope this retirement is that via Brett Favre or Roger Clemens (meaning he'll be back soon), I am happy I got to see him play. He was very fun to watch, and his maturation as both a person and a player was great to see.
I'll miss you J-Dub.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Dream Team Vs. 'Redeem' Team
With the United States men's basketball team finally back on track, there have been some rumblings that this version of the team - who have nicknamed themselves "The Redeem Team" - might be the best since the original Dream Team crushed all who took them on in Barcelona in 1992.
So, it got me thinking, if that '92 U.S. Basketball Team were to take on this current one - who would win?
The quick response would obviously be the Dream Team, but that may not be the case - or at least not as easily as one would think.
Let's run down the team members:
In 1992 the consisted of:
If I were to match the players up, it would have to look like this (with '92 team going first)
In my opinion, I think if the teams were to play 10 games, that the '92 team would win six. But, that is a lot closer than I bet most people would think. Jordan has that extra something special that made everyone around him play that much better - which I think gives them the edge. Bryant has been compared to Jordan - but he has yet to show that he has that special something.
Either way, I am glad the United States has finally realized that the world has gotten a lot better. There is no way you can throw a group of all-stars on to the court for a handful of practices and expect them to gel in time to win the gold medal. The U.S. finally did something right with the selection process and three year commitment plan. It guarantees that we will at least be players for years to come.
So, it got me thinking, if that '92 U.S. Basketball Team were to take on this current one - who would win?
The quick response would obviously be the Dream Team, but that may not be the case - or at least not as easily as one would think.
Let's run down the team members:
In 1992 the consisted of:
- Larry Bird
- Michael Jordan
- Patrick Ewing
- Magic Johnson
- Clyde Drexler
- John Stockton
- Chris Mullin
- Scottie Pippen
- Charles Barkley
- Christian Laettner
- David Robinson
- Karl Malone
- LeBron James
- Kobe Bryant
- Dwayne Wade
- Carmelo Anthony
- Carlos Boozer
- Chris Bosh
- Dwight Howard
- Tayshaun Prince
- Michael Redd
- Jason Kidd
- Deron Williams
- Chris Paul
If I were to match the players up, it would have to look like this (with '92 team going first)
- Jordan vs. Bryant
- Pippen vs. James
- Robinson vs. Bosh
- Ewing vs. Howard
- Johnson vs. Wade
- Barkley vs. Anthony
- Malone vs. Boozer
- Stockton vs. Paul
- Laettner vs. Prince
- Bird vs. Kidd
- Drexler vs.Williams
- Mullin vs. Redd
In my opinion, I think if the teams were to play 10 games, that the '92 team would win six. But, that is a lot closer than I bet most people would think. Jordan has that extra something special that made everyone around him play that much better - which I think gives them the edge. Bryant has been compared to Jordan - but he has yet to show that he has that special something.
Either way, I am glad the United States has finally realized that the world has gotten a lot better. There is no way you can throw a group of all-stars on to the court for a handful of practices and expect them to gel in time to win the gold medal. The U.S. finally did something right with the selection process and three year commitment plan. It guarantees that we will at least be players for years to come.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Williams lands in exile?
I am a pretty big sports fan. I absolutely love the NFL, but my favorite sport since the fourth grade (the day I started playing) has been basketball.
I am not what you would call a tall person, 5'10", so throughout my basketball career I have always been a guard. So naturally, I have always gravitated towards guards in the NBA as my favorite to watch.
When I first got interested in basketball, the Chicago Bulls were on top of the world thanks to Michael Jordan. But, everyone was a Jordan fan - and if they weren't then it was most likely Scottie Pippen. I, however, noticed the short point guard who was nailing all of the 3's - B.J. Armstrong. So, for a good while, Armstrong became my favorite NBA player.
When Armstrong retired it was right around the time that a pretty exciting player was entering the league for the Sacramento Kings - Jason Williams.
I had seen Williams a few times when he played for Florida, but was not fully aware of his capabilities until his rookie season for the Kings. He was like a breath of fresh air. His moves were absolutely amazing. He was like an artist with the basketball, and could see the entire court, which made for excellent and pretty crazy passes.
Williams landed in Sacramento the same year the Kings landed Chris Webber and Vlade Divac, and for the first time in awhile Sacramento was a challenger in the NBA's Western Conference.
Williams lasted four seasons in Sacramento, the Kings started to believe that due to Williams' sometimes erratic play that he could never lead Sacramento to an NBA title - so he was traded to Memphis for Mike Bibby (who also never led the Kings to an NBA title).
While a Grizzly, Williams, along with Pau Gasol and Shane Battier, actually made the team relevant for the first time in franchise history - even winning 50 games one season and claiming the sixth seed in the playoffs. They got swept each year in those playoffs, but for a team that had never been there - they were actually respectable.
Finally, Williams was again traded, to the Miami Heat - and teamed up with Dwyane Wade and Shaquille O'Neal to win his first NBA title (as a starting point guard - didn't think it could be done Sacramento?) in the 2005-06 season.
Williams has fallen on hard times as of late in the injury department, but has still been plenty productive - finishing last season 12th in steals per game and eighth in assist/turnover ratio.
The Heat, who completely fell apart last season, have decided to go in a different direction - so it was unsure whether Williams would return, or where he would end up.
I frantically have been checking the transactions, but no deals for Williams have been listed - until last night. Williams has signed with the Los Angeles Clippers. Yes, the Clippers.
I am not sure how to take this. Obviously, Williams is going to be the backup point guard to newly signed Baron Davis. But, the Clippers have had like one decent season in a decade. There looks to be some promise on the roster, but are they a playoff team?
I guess we will just have to wait and see. I am happy, however, that Williams landed with another NBA team and didn't take a deal that would have him playing overseas - which was apparently offered.
Good Luck in Clipperland, Jason. I hope to see you in the playoffs.
I am not what you would call a tall person, 5'10", so throughout my basketball career I have always been a guard. So naturally, I have always gravitated towards guards in the NBA as my favorite to watch.
When I first got interested in basketball, the Chicago Bulls were on top of the world thanks to Michael Jordan. But, everyone was a Jordan fan - and if they weren't then it was most likely Scottie Pippen. I, however, noticed the short point guard who was nailing all of the 3's - B.J. Armstrong. So, for a good while, Armstrong became my favorite NBA player.
When Armstrong retired it was right around the time that a pretty exciting player was entering the league for the Sacramento Kings - Jason Williams.
I had seen Williams a few times when he played for Florida, but was not fully aware of his capabilities until his rookie season for the Kings. He was like a breath of fresh air. His moves were absolutely amazing. He was like an artist with the basketball, and could see the entire court, which made for excellent and pretty crazy passes.
Williams landed in Sacramento the same year the Kings landed Chris Webber and Vlade Divac, and for the first time in awhile Sacramento was a challenger in the NBA's Western Conference.
Williams lasted four seasons in Sacramento, the Kings started to believe that due to Williams' sometimes erratic play that he could never lead Sacramento to an NBA title - so he was traded to Memphis for Mike Bibby (who also never led the Kings to an NBA title).
While a Grizzly, Williams, along with Pau Gasol and Shane Battier, actually made the team relevant for the first time in franchise history - even winning 50 games one season and claiming the sixth seed in the playoffs. They got swept each year in those playoffs, but for a team that had never been there - they were actually respectable.
Finally, Williams was again traded, to the Miami Heat - and teamed up with Dwyane Wade and Shaquille O'Neal to win his first NBA title (as a starting point guard - didn't think it could be done Sacramento?) in the 2005-06 season.Williams has fallen on hard times as of late in the injury department, but has still been plenty productive - finishing last season 12th in steals per game and eighth in assist/turnover ratio.
The Heat, who completely fell apart last season, have decided to go in a different direction - so it was unsure whether Williams would return, or where he would end up.
I frantically have been checking the transactions, but no deals for Williams have been listed - until last night. Williams has signed with the Los Angeles Clippers. Yes, the Clippers.
I am not sure how to take this. Obviously, Williams is going to be the backup point guard to newly signed Baron Davis. But, the Clippers have had like one decent season in a decade. There looks to be some promise on the roster, but are they a playoff team?
I guess we will just have to wait and see. I am happy, however, that Williams landed with another NBA team and didn't take a deal that would have him playing overseas - which was apparently offered.
Good Luck in Clipperland, Jason. I hope to see you in the playoffs.
Friday, June 27, 2008
NBA Draft - Recap
The 2008 NBA Draft was held last night, and like I predicted in my previous article, freshmen were the keys to this draft.
First off, I just want to commend - myself. I had a summer basketball game last night at 7:45, and managed to not only play the game, but had dinner afterwards and made it all the way home without hearing a single word on what was happening during the draft. So, I am pretty proud of myself - and somewhat surprised. I thought for sure someone would let it slip who Chicago picked at #1.
So, I got home late last night and fast-forwarded through the insanely annoying Stuart Scott, who was the host of the draft for ESPN, and caught up on the picks.
No real surprises in the top three picks: Derrick Rose (Memphis) goes #1 to Chicago; Michael Beasley (Kansas State) goes #2 to Miami; O.J. Mayo (USC) heads to Minnesota at #3.There were some concerns that Miami was planning on not selecting Beasley at #2, but you have to take him when he is considered one of the best two players in this draft.
Some highlights throughout the night:
- Darrell Arthur of Kansas slips to #27, despite being asked to attend. He sat in the Green Room for a long time before finally being selected by New Orleans. His roller-coaster ride was just beginning, however, as he was traded to Portland - then to Houston - and finally to Memphis (so far).
- Brook Lopez of Stanford appeared to have tears in his eyes as he fell to the Nets at #10. He was projected to possibly go at #3, but no way the Bobcats pass over him at #9 - which they did.
- Trades galore: the biggest coming after I finally went to bed. Memphis traded Kevin Love (#5 pick), Mike Miller, Jason Collins and Brian Cardinal to Minnesota for Mayo (#3 pick), Antoine Walker, Greg Buckner and Marko Jaric. Another huge trade for these two franchise - remember the Garnett trade? How about the Gasol trade?
- Knicks fans will boo anyone. Especially a poor kid from Italy named Danilo Gallinari. But, according to experts, he is a player - they did say the same about Darko Milicic a few years ago though.
- Robin Lopez (twin brother of Brook) has the best hair of the draft. Looking a little like Sideshow Bob from The Simpsons, only at 7'0" tall. He was drafted at #15 by Phoenix and it was absolutely comical as he tried to stuff his hair into his new team's hat.
Last night they picked up some major pieces to fill in some spots for their up-and-coming squad via trades. They landed Ike Diogu and Jerryd Bayless (#11 pick) from the Pacers. Bayless was considered to be the second best point guard (behind Rose) coming into the draft, but fell to the Pacers at #11. Diogu and Bayless will fit in perfectly with the young team.
They also picked up a couple of foreign players that will most likely stay overseas for a few years, and landed four more draft picks for the coming years. They seriously have figured this draft thing out.
I am not much for picking a winner and a loser for the draft, because it takes so long for some of these players to truly develop and get used to the league. I felt Portland did a nice job. The Rose pick for Chicago was automatic, but leaves them with a crowded backcourt. And I feel Beasley to the Heat gives them a solid 3 punch (including Dwyane Wade and Shawn Marion) for at least a few years.
As for a loser, I would have to say the Atlanta Hawks, and for only one reason - they didn't have a single pick. The Hawks have been on the cusp of something special with so much young talent on their roster. This season, they even snuck into the playoffs as the #8 seed, before falling to the eventual NBA Champion Boston Celtics. So, they are still a few players away - and not having a pick could hurt them as other teams appear to be getting better.
All-in-all a respectable draft, but of course we'll have to wait a few years to see how it really panned out.
NOTE: I also played my second summer basketball league game last night, and our team again rolled to a victory (our second in as many games). I again felt pretty good, scored four points again, but was 2-for-5 from the field (both made shots were layups), so my field goal percentage is now 50%, horrific.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
NBA Draft
The 2008 NBA Draft will be held tonight. For the second straight year the top two picks appear to be locks, and appear to be freshmen.
This year, freshmen will be dominating the draft boards as a record 12 are projected to go in the first round. Every year there is always a few surprises that have you shaking your head. Every year a guaranteed lock doesn't work out, while a player no one expected to pan out becomes a star.
I thought I would go through the past eight drafts (2000-2007) and select a player that was picked in the second round (or a late first rounder) that has developed faster than a few of those guaranteed first rounders.
This year, freshmen will be dominating the draft boards as a record 12 are projected to go in the first round. Every year there is always a few surprises that have you shaking your head. Every year a guaranteed lock doesn't work out, while a player no one expected to pan out becomes a star.
I thought I would go through the past eight drafts (2000-2007) and select a player that was picked in the second round (or a late first rounder) that has developed faster than a few of those guaranteed first rounders.
2000 - Michael Redd, Milwaukee Bucks
Redd was selected by the Milwaukee Bucks with the 43rd pick in the 2000 draft. He has since been an all-star and was named to the 2008 Olympic Basketball Team.
Other notable second rounders in 2000: Eddie House, Brian Cardinal, Jason Hart and Marko Jaric.
2001 - Gilbert Arenas, Golden State Warriors
Arenas was selected by the Warriors with the 31st pick in the 2001 draft. He has since been an all-star. He now plays for the Washington Wizards.
Other notable second rounders in 2001: Mehmet Okur and Earl Watson.
2002 - Carlos Boozer, Cleveland Cavaliers
Boozer was drafted 34th overall in the 2002 draft by the Cavaliers. He made a name for himself, and has since become an all-star for the Utah Jazz. He recently was named to the 2008 Olympic Basketball Team.
Other notable second rounders in 2002: Ronald 'Flip' Murray and Luis Scola.
2003 - Luke Walton, Los Angeles Lakers
Walton was selected 32nd by the Lakers in the 2003 draft. He has been both a starter and a notable reserve for the 2007 Western Conference champions.
Other notable second rounders in 2003: Jason Kapono, Willie Green, Steve Blake, Keith Bogans and Kyle Korver.
2004 - Anderson Varejao, Cleveland Cavaliers
Varejao was picked 30th overall by the Cavaliers in the 2004 draft. He is known mostly for his outstanding hairstyle, but is also high energy off the bench - providing defense and rebounding. He was the only notable second round selection in this draft.
2005 - Monta Ellis, Golden State Warriors
Ellis was selected 40th overall by the Warriors. He has developed into a full-fledged star for Golden State over the past two season's, combining with Baron Davis as a powerful duo in the backcourt.
Other notable second rounders in 2005: Ryan Gomes, Ronny Turiaf and Brandon Bass.
2006 - Daniel Gibson, Cleveland Cavaliers
Gibson was selected 42nd overall by the Cavaliers in 2006. Despite injuries, he has developed into a strong outside shooter for Cleveland. He captured the MVP in last season's Rookie/Sophomore Challenge during the All-Star Weekend.
Other notable second rounders in 2006: Craig Smith, Leon Powe and Paul Milsap.
2007 - Carl Landry, Houston Rockets
Landry was selected 31st overall in the 2007 draft by Houston. Landry is just getting his feet wet, but he helped a Rockets team off the bench make the playoffs after Yao Ming went down to injury.
Other notable second rounders in 2007: Glen 'Big Baby' Davis, Aaron Gray and D.J. Strawberry.
Redd was selected by the Milwaukee Bucks with the 43rd pick in the 2000 draft. He has since been an all-star and was named to the 2008 Olympic Basketball Team.Other notable second rounders in 2000: Eddie House, Brian Cardinal, Jason Hart and Marko Jaric.
2001 - Gilbert Arenas, Golden State Warriors
Arenas was selected by the Warriors with the 31st pick in the 2001 draft. He has since been an all-star. He now plays for the Washington Wizards.Other notable second rounders in 2001: Mehmet Okur and Earl Watson.
2002 - Carlos Boozer, Cleveland Cavaliers
Boozer was drafted 34th overall in the 2002 draft by the Cavaliers. He made a name for himself, and has since become an all-star for the Utah Jazz. He recently was named to the 2008 Olympic Basketball Team.Other notable second rounders in 2002: Ronald 'Flip' Murray and Luis Scola.
2003 - Luke Walton, Los Angeles Lakers
Walton was selected 32nd by the Lakers in the 2003 draft. He has been both a starter and a notable reserve for the 2007 Western Conference champions.Other notable second rounders in 2003: Jason Kapono, Willie Green, Steve Blake, Keith Bogans and Kyle Korver.
2004 - Anderson Varejao, Cleveland Cavaliers
Varejao was picked 30th overall by the Cavaliers in the 2004 draft. He is known mostly for his outstanding hairstyle, but is also high energy off the bench - providing defense and rebounding. He was the only notable second round selection in this draft.2005 - Monta Ellis, Golden State Warriors
Ellis was selected 40th overall by the Warriors. He has developed into a full-fledged star for Golden State over the past two season's, combining with Baron Davis as a powerful duo in the backcourt.Other notable second rounders in 2005: Ryan Gomes, Ronny Turiaf and Brandon Bass.
2006 - Daniel Gibson, Cleveland Cavaliers
Gibson was selected 42nd overall by the Cavaliers in 2006. Despite injuries, he has developed into a strong outside shooter for Cleveland. He captured the MVP in last season's Rookie/Sophomore Challenge during the All-Star Weekend.Other notable second rounders in 2006: Craig Smith, Leon Powe and Paul Milsap.
2007 - Carl Landry, Houston Rockets
Landry was selected 31st overall in the 2007 draft by Houston. Landry is just getting his feet wet, but he helped a Rockets team off the bench make the playoffs after Yao Ming went down to injury.Other notable second rounders in 2007: Glen 'Big Baby' Davis, Aaron Gray and D.J. Strawberry.
The NBA Draft begins tonight at 7 p.m. on ESPN. More of a wrapup tomorrow on all of the picks.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Dream Team?
The United States has fallen on hard times as of late in basketball competition world wide. You can probably trace this all the way back to the original Dream Team of 1992. That was the year that 11 NBA players (and 1 college player) took the world by storm in winning gold in Barcelona.
That team, of course, consisted of Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Scottie Pippen, David Robinson, Patrick Ewing, Clyde Drexler, Karl Malone, John Stockton, Chris Mullin, Charles Barkley and Christian Laettner.
The original Dream Team won each of their games by an average of over 40 points, en route to an easy gold medal victory. In doing so, however, that team may have inadvertently affected the coming years of Olympic basketball competition - you see, other countries started to model themselves after that team. Everyone wanted to be the next Jordan or Barkley. And thus, other countries started to get better.
Now don't get me wrong - I believe that the United States still harbors the best basketball talent in the world. But, getting that talent onto one team and allowing that talent to gel in time for the Olympics - pretty impossible.
The NBA season ends in June and starts again in October. For a player to play for the Olympic team, they are giving up their offseason - their time to heal. So for the past few years, the best of the best have been unwilling to do that.
Enter Jerry Colangelo, who had grown tired of the U.S. performance in the Olympics. He started a national team program - inviting a number of U.S.-born players to participate and be selected to the various teams that the U.S. will participate in, including the Olympics. This way, the stock is always deep, the players get to know each other - and no one is being added at the final minute.
Another thing that has been hurting the United States' performance has been the exclusion of the role player on rosters. Signing up 12 superstars and asking them to change their games is a difficult task, but bringing players that are known specifically for their defense, rebounding or passing could help the U.S. get over the hump.
Today, the 12-man roster was announced and here they are:
Photos (L-R): Carmelo Anthony (Denver Nuggets), Carlos Boozer (Utah Jazz), Chris Bosh (Toronto Raptors), Chris Paul (New Orleans Hornets), Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers), Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic), Dwyane Wade (Miami Heat), Jason Kidd (Dallas Mavericks), Deron Williams (Utah Jazz), Michael Redd (Milwaukee Bucks), LeBron James (Cleveland Cavaliers), Tayshaun Prince (Detroit Pistons).
I like the roster, but my one complaint is this: the European game is driving, dishing and shooting 3's and of the 12 players listed above Michael Redd is the lone player is called a 3-point specialist. On the U.S. American Games team, Mike Miller was also available - but, this may be nothing - just wanted to point it out.
A complaint I have heard, however, is the team's lack of inside players. This team currently has three point guards, six combo guard/forwards and three bigs. An injury to any of those players could be serious, but again, in the international game bigger players mostly play on the outside. It's a more finesse game, so losing size for speed and shooters is not a big problem in my eyes.
So there you have it. The new U.S. Olympic Basketball Team. On paper they should restore the United States to gold, but we have thought that in the past as well. We can only wait and see.
That team, of course, consisted of Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Scottie Pippen, David Robinson, Patrick Ewing, Clyde Drexler, Karl Malone, John Stockton, Chris Mullin, Charles Barkley and Christian Laettner.
The original Dream Team won each of their games by an average of over 40 points, en route to an easy gold medal victory. In doing so, however, that team may have inadvertently affected the coming years of Olympic basketball competition - you see, other countries started to model themselves after that team. Everyone wanted to be the next Jordan or Barkley. And thus, other countries started to get better.
Now don't get me wrong - I believe that the United States still harbors the best basketball talent in the world. But, getting that talent onto one team and allowing that talent to gel in time for the Olympics - pretty impossible.
The NBA season ends in June and starts again in October. For a player to play for the Olympic team, they are giving up their offseason - their time to heal. So for the past few years, the best of the best have been unwilling to do that.
Enter Jerry Colangelo, who had grown tired of the U.S. performance in the Olympics. He started a national team program - inviting a number of U.S.-born players to participate and be selected to the various teams that the U.S. will participate in, including the Olympics. This way, the stock is always deep, the players get to know each other - and no one is being added at the final minute.
Another thing that has been hurting the United States' performance has been the exclusion of the role player on rosters. Signing up 12 superstars and asking them to change their games is a difficult task, but bringing players that are known specifically for their defense, rebounding or passing could help the U.S. get over the hump.
Today, the 12-man roster was announced and here they are:
I like the roster, but my one complaint is this: the European game is driving, dishing and shooting 3's and of the 12 players listed above Michael Redd is the lone player is called a 3-point specialist. On the U.S. American Games team, Mike Miller was also available - but, this may be nothing - just wanted to point it out.
A complaint I have heard, however, is the team's lack of inside players. This team currently has three point guards, six combo guard/forwards and three bigs. An injury to any of those players could be serious, but again, in the international game bigger players mostly play on the outside. It's a more finesse game, so losing size for speed and shooters is not a big problem in my eyes.
So there you have it. The new U.S. Olympic Basketball Team. On paper they should restore the United States to gold, but we have thought that in the past as well. We can only wait and see.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
You're 2008 NBA Champions....
There was never any doubt. The Lakers just didn't show up. It was actually quite embarrassing.
The Boston Celtics captured their 17th NBA Championship last night with a 131-92 drubbing of the Los Angeles Lakers. The worst loss in NBA history in a deciding Finals contest.
Paul Pierce was named MVP of the Finals, but I have to tell you - I would have been equally impressed with Kendrick Perkins picking up the honor. It's insane how much of a difference this guy made in the game. He missed Game 5 with a shoulder injury and Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom went off. He returns for Game 6, with his shoulder wrapped, and completely dominated the paint. It was amazing.
I guess technically there was no true MVP. The entire Boston roster at some point during the playoffs stepped up and performed. But, I guess the real honor would have to go to Kevin Garnett. As soon as the 'Big Three' were brought together it was him that truly brought the team together as one. He helped everyone embrace the defensive end (which is technically where they won the title) and shelve their egos.
Another tidbit: I don't want to hear the comparisons of Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan again. Jordan would never have allowed a team of his to be blown out in a game of this magnitude. Across the board, Kobe is no where near the player that Jordan was. In Jordan's day the game was much more physical - in today's game any bump is a foul. Kobe would have never made it in '80s or early '90s.
Of course, I didn't get to see the celebration live last night. I went to bed at halftime in order to wake up for work this morning. But, again, those on the West Coast enjoyed the game - I am sure. As long as they're happy. There is still a way to fix this, I know it. Someone needs to get working on it.
Finally, the Celtics made the greatest turnaround in a single season. The year before they won a measly 24 games and captured the title this season. The previous largest turnaround was the Blazers, who won 35 games the year before they won the title.
My main question is this: Is this good for the NBA?
Each team is allowed to carry 15 players on it's roster. The Celtics currently have just six players from last year's 24-win team (Pierce, Perkins, Rondo, Scalabrine, Tony Allen, Powe). So, they totally revamped the roster.
Granted, every team likes to go out and find a steal in free agency or in trades. But Boston shredded its entire team. Basketball, like football, has always been about building a contender through the draft and picking up small pieces to complete what you need (the San Antonio Spurs are perfect examples of this).
Baseball, however, for most teams has been about buying championships. You buy the best player for the right price to plug into your lineup and propel you to a title (Yankees, Red Sox, etc.).
But basketball has always been different. The Lakers tried this a few years ago with Karl Malone and Gary Payton (not to the Celtics extent, but still), but it didn't work. I just hope that teams don't start thinking they are a huge trade away from winning tomorrow, because the league shouldn't be like that.
A few perfect examples of how the league should work are the New Orleans Hornets and Atlanta Hawks. They have built their teams through the draft and picking up a few free agents - and are now on the brink of excellence. It's something you can be proud of - watch them mature in front of your eyes.
But, I am still very happy for the Celtics. For Garnett, Allen and Pierce. And that the Lakers and Bryant didn't capture the title.
It's great to see good people succeed. And Garnett and Allen have always been excellent human beings. People Bryant should try and model himself after.
The Boston Celtics captured their 17th NBA Championship last night with a 131-92 drubbing of the Los Angeles Lakers. The worst loss in NBA history in a deciding Finals contest.
Paul Pierce was named MVP of the Finals, but I have to tell you - I would have been equally impressed with Kendrick Perkins picking up the honor. It's insane how much of a difference this guy made in the game. He missed Game 5 with a shoulder injury and Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom went off. He returns for Game 6, with his shoulder wrapped, and completely dominated the paint. It was amazing.
I guess technically there was no true MVP. The entire Boston roster at some point during the playoffs stepped up and performed. But, I guess the real honor would have to go to Kevin Garnett. As soon as the 'Big Three' were brought together it was him that truly brought the team together as one. He helped everyone embrace the defensive end (which is technically where they won the title) and shelve their egos.
Another tidbit: I don't want to hear the comparisons of Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan again. Jordan would never have allowed a team of his to be blown out in a game of this magnitude. Across the board, Kobe is no where near the player that Jordan was. In Jordan's day the game was much more physical - in today's game any bump is a foul. Kobe would have never made it in '80s or early '90s.
Of course, I didn't get to see the celebration live last night. I went to bed at halftime in order to wake up for work this morning. But, again, those on the West Coast enjoyed the game - I am sure. As long as they're happy. There is still a way to fix this, I know it. Someone needs to get working on it.
Finally, the Celtics made the greatest turnaround in a single season. The year before they won a measly 24 games and captured the title this season. The previous largest turnaround was the Blazers, who won 35 games the year before they won the title.
My main question is this: Is this good for the NBA?Each team is allowed to carry 15 players on it's roster. The Celtics currently have just six players from last year's 24-win team (Pierce, Perkins, Rondo, Scalabrine, Tony Allen, Powe). So, they totally revamped the roster.
Granted, every team likes to go out and find a steal in free agency or in trades. But Boston shredded its entire team. Basketball, like football, has always been about building a contender through the draft and picking up small pieces to complete what you need (the San Antonio Spurs are perfect examples of this).
Baseball, however, for most teams has been about buying championships. You buy the best player for the right price to plug into your lineup and propel you to a title (Yankees, Red Sox, etc.).
But basketball has always been different. The Lakers tried this a few years ago with Karl Malone and Gary Payton (not to the Celtics extent, but still), but it didn't work. I just hope that teams don't start thinking they are a huge trade away from winning tomorrow, because the league shouldn't be like that.
A few perfect examples of how the league should work are the New Orleans Hornets and Atlanta Hawks. They have built their teams through the draft and picking up a few free agents - and are now on the brink of excellence. It's something you can be proud of - watch them mature in front of your eyes.
But, I am still very happy for the Celtics. For Garnett, Allen and Pierce. And that the Lakers and Bryant didn't capture the title.
It's great to see good people succeed. And Garnett and Allen have always been excellent human beings. People Bryant should try and model himself after.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Quick Rant: Starting Times
The major sporting events are getting missed by many people in the United States, and it all has to do with the time zones.
For the most part, in order for the West Coast to view a sporting event during the week, the game must start after 6 p.m. Pacific Time. Unfortunately, for those on the East Coast this means all games (without going into overtime, or extra innings) are finishing around or after midnight.
This is hurting not only the working class, who must in fact get up for work in the morning and cannot stay up to finish a game that late, but it is also hurting the sport itself, because millions of children are not watching your product.
There is an easy fix for this, but for some reason it has not been looked into. The reason for the later starts is so that all those wishing to watch the game on the West Coast can get home after work before the start of the game. Well, my main question is, are you more inclined to watch a sporting event you know you can't see the end of? Or, are you more inclined to join a game in progress, that you know you will be able to finish?
I think the answer is pretty obvious.
But, this is not what is being done. Last night's NBA Finals Game against the storied Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers didn't even get started until after 9 p.m. Eastern Time, and was just heading into halftime just after 10:30 p.m.
The NBA isn't the only sport that is making it difficult for East Coast fans to watch major sporting events, or for children to catch something that might stay with them forever. Major League Baseball is possibly the worst at it. Because of their starting times, and the excruciating length of their games, there isn't many on the East Coast who are able watch the World Series. Let alone seven games if the series goes that long.
The NHL appeared to have gotten it somewhat right. But, that may be because both teams in the Stanley Cup Finals were relatively close to the East Coast. With Detroit and Pittsburgh in the Finals, most games started around 8 p.m. Eastern Time - so for a three hour contest, it's getting over at a more reasonable 11 p.m. instead of pushing well past midnight.
I doubt anyone with any real influence is reading this, but if there is any chance there is please take this into consideration. I am an NBA fan, and my son will probably be an NBA fan (if I am lucky) - I, in the future, would like to watch at least one NBA Finals game to it's conclusion without having to slug through the next day at work thanks to being overly tired.
In the days of DVRs, I am sure if a West Coaster wants to see the beginning of the game they will record the game and easily be able to catch up. What with all of the television commercials (but that is another story).
For the most part, in order for the West Coast to view a sporting event during the week, the game must start after 6 p.m. Pacific Time. Unfortunately, for those on the East Coast this means all games (without going into overtime, or extra innings) are finishing around or after midnight.
This is hurting not only the working class, who must in fact get up for work in the morning and cannot stay up to finish a game that late, but it is also hurting the sport itself, because millions of children are not watching your product.There is an easy fix for this, but for some reason it has not been looked into. The reason for the later starts is so that all those wishing to watch the game on the West Coast can get home after work before the start of the game. Well, my main question is, are you more inclined to watch a sporting event you know you can't see the end of? Or, are you more inclined to join a game in progress, that you know you will be able to finish?
I think the answer is pretty obvious.
But, this is not what is being done. Last night's NBA Finals Game against the storied Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers didn't even get started until after 9 p.m. Eastern Time, and was just heading into halftime just after 10:30 p.m.
The NBA isn't the only sport that is making it difficult for East Coast fans to watch major sporting events, or for children to catch something that might stay with them forever. Major League Baseball is possibly the worst at it. Because of their starting times, and the excruciating length of their games, there isn't many on the East Coast who are able watch the World Series. Let alone seven games if the series goes that long.
The NHL appeared to have gotten it somewhat right. But, that may be because both teams in the Stanley Cup Finals were relatively close to the East Coast. With Detroit and Pittsburgh in the Finals, most games started around 8 p.m. Eastern Time - so for a three hour contest, it's getting over at a more reasonable 11 p.m. instead of pushing well past midnight.
I doubt anyone with any real influence is reading this, but if there is any chance there is please take this into consideration. I am an NBA fan, and my son will probably be an NBA fan (if I am lucky) - I, in the future, would like to watch at least one NBA Finals game to it's conclusion without having to slug through the next day at work thanks to being overly tired.
In the days of DVRs, I am sure if a West Coaster wants to see the beginning of the game they will record the game and easily be able to catch up. What with all of the television commercials (but that is another story).
Monday, June 2, 2008
What Year Is It?
When you wake up on Thursday you may have to look at the morning's paper to realize just what year you are in.
If you were just listening to the sports or entertainment news, you may have felt that you have traveled back in time to the 1980s.
The biggest movie in the theater these days stars Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones, something we haven't seen since 1989.
Well, the NBA can do it one better.
The Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers will renew their glorious rivalry on Thursday night in the National Basketball Association Finals. This will be their first meeting in the Finals since 1987 (meeting previously 10 times since 1959).
The Lakers have been pretty consistent in the years since, including winning three titles with the Shaquille O'Neal/Kobe Bryant combination. But, they had fell to the bottom of the Western Conference playoff teams since the departure of O'Neal, only to be reinvigorated with the arrival of Pau Gasol this season.
The Celtics, however, have been an up and down team for many years since 1987 - reaching the conference finals in the 2001-0-2 season, only to lose to the New Jersey Nets. Last season, the Celtics finished second-to-last in the NBA with 24 victories. In the offseason, though, the Celtics worked their magic and landed Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett to join perennial all-star Paul Pierce - now known as "The Big Three".
The Celtics haven't been this exciting since their original "Big Three" in Larry Bird, Robert Parrish and Kevin McHale. If the Celtics win a title this season, they may send another ring to McHale (now the Minnesota Timberwolves GM), who OKed the trade for Garnett from Minnesota.
So the year may be 2008, but there certainly appears to be some resurgence to the great years of the '80s. I hear Beverly Hills Cop is coming back - I am not spiking my hair again, no way.
If you were just listening to the sports or entertainment news, you may have felt that you have traveled back in time to the 1980s.
The biggest movie in the theater these days stars Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones, something we haven't seen since 1989.
Well, the NBA can do it one better.
The Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers will renew their glorious rivalry on Thursday night in the National Basketball Association Finals. This will be their first meeting in the Finals since 1987 (meeting previously 10 times since 1959).The Lakers have been pretty consistent in the years since, including winning three titles with the Shaquille O'Neal/Kobe Bryant combination. But, they had fell to the bottom of the Western Conference playoff teams since the departure of O'Neal, only to be reinvigorated with the arrival of Pau Gasol this season.
The Celtics, however, have been an up and down team for many years since 1987 - reaching the conference finals in the 2001-0-2 season, only to lose to the New Jersey Nets. Last season, the Celtics finished second-to-last in the NBA with 24 victories. In the offseason, though, the Celtics worked their magic and landed Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett to join perennial all-star Paul Pierce - now known as "The Big Three".
The Celtics haven't been this exciting since their original "Big Three" in Larry Bird, Robert Parrish and Kevin McHale. If the Celtics win a title this season, they may send another ring to McHale (now the Minnesota Timberwolves GM), who OKed the trade for Garnett from Minnesota.So the year may be 2008, but there certainly appears to be some resurgence to the great years of the '80s. I hear Beverly Hills Cop is coming back - I am not spiking my hair again, no way.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Quick Rant: Tim Duncan
I have been an NBA fan for a long time, basically since the end of the Pistons dynasty and the beginning of the Bulls.
In my opinion, Tim Duncan is the greatest power forward of all-time. Now, if you put Bill Russell in today's game - he would most likely be considered a power forward, but in his day he was a center, so that is where he should be. Also, Duncan has the size to be considered a center as well, but for most of his career he has always played next to a center, whether that be David Robinson, Rasho Nesterovic or Frabricio Oberto.
Duncan is probably the most fundamentally sound player in the NBA, even earning the nickname "The Big Fundamental" from Shaquille O'Neal. He has led the Spurs to four NBA championships in 1999, 2003, 2005 and 2007.
I have been watching the playoffs, on and off, and two things that have really been bugging me about Tim Duncan is this: he shows absolutely no emotion and he complains on every play.
Basketball to Duncan appears to be a job. I would love for a reporter to ask him if he actually enjoys playing the game. It's obvious he is excellent at it, so of course he does it - and makes a ton of money doing it. But on a few occasions last night, when his teammates made a strong play or whatever, they showed emotion (screaming, chest bumps, etc.) - Duncan did not.
And the most annoying thing, Duncan complains on every play. For as good as he is, he thinks he must be even better. If he misses a shot - he must have gotten fouled. If he commits a foul - he didn't even touch him. It's disgusting really - and in my opinion truly tarnishes his legacy. Sure, star players complain about calls - but not every single one.
You've been in the league forever, Tim. You have four championships, plus I am sure a couple more in your future. You can go down as arguably the best power forward in NBA history. Stop complaining - or at least put a smile on your face.
In my opinion, Tim Duncan is the greatest power forward of all-time. Now, if you put Bill Russell in today's game - he would most likely be considered a power forward, but in his day he was a center, so that is where he should be. Also, Duncan has the size to be considered a center as well, but for most of his career he has always played next to a center, whether that be David Robinson, Rasho Nesterovic or Frabricio Oberto.
Duncan is probably the most fundamentally sound player in the NBA, even earning the nickname "The Big Fundamental" from Shaquille O'Neal. He has led the Spurs to four NBA championships in 1999, 2003, 2005 and 2007.
I have been watching the playoffs, on and off, and two things that have really been bugging me about Tim Duncan is this: he shows absolutely no emotion and he complains on every play.Basketball to Duncan appears to be a job. I would love for a reporter to ask him if he actually enjoys playing the game. It's obvious he is excellent at it, so of course he does it - and makes a ton of money doing it. But on a few occasions last night, when his teammates made a strong play or whatever, they showed emotion (screaming, chest bumps, etc.) - Duncan did not.
And the most annoying thing, Duncan complains on every play. For as good as he is, he thinks he must be even better. If he misses a shot - he must have gotten fouled. If he commits a foul - he didn't even touch him. It's disgusting really - and in my opinion truly tarnishes his legacy. Sure, star players complain about calls - but not every single one.
You've been in the league forever, Tim. You have four championships, plus I am sure a couple more in your future. You can go down as arguably the best power forward in NBA history. Stop complaining - or at least put a smile on your face.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Pierce vs. James
I have not had a number of chances to watch a full playoff basketball game this year. A few years ago this would have been blasphemes due to my love for anything and all NBA, but my life is different now, with more things to do.
That being said I was able to watch most of the Celtics/Cavaliers Game 7 game yesterday.
In 1988, another Celtics Game 7 semifinal battle, included two superstars trying to will their teams into the next round. It is deemed one of the greatest playoff battles of all-time. Larry Bird's Celtics prevailed, thanks to Bird's 34 points (20 in the fourth quarter), over Dominique Wilkins' Atlanta Hawks. Wilkins scored a game-high 47 points in the contest, but fell to the mighty Celtics. The two combined for 81 points in a memorable battle.
In today's game, the superstar very rarely guards the other team's superstar at both ends of the court. As a coach it makes sense, why would you want to tire out your offensive juggernaut on the defensive side of the ball?
But yesterday, Cleveland's LeBron James and Boston's Paul Pierce settled in for a battle of the ages - as they not only guarded each other, but surpassed the brilliance of the Bird/Wilkins matchup.
Pierce erupted for 41 points to lead the No. 1 seeded Celtics into the Eastern Conference Finals with a 97-92 victory over the Cavaliers. James, however, didn't go down without a fight as he poured in a game-high 45 points. The combined 86 points surpasses that of the Bird/Wilkins duel.
It's something you don't get to witness too often in basketball - two players on opposite teams, totally taking over the game - trying to will their team to victory. But when you do, it's magical.
I fear that the 14 total games the Celtics have been forced to play will hurt their chances against a rested Detroit Pistons squad. Boston has yet to win a game on the road, so a loss in either of the first two games at home to the Pistons could prove detrimental. I shudder of the thought of Detroit making it back to the Finals. Hopefully the layoff will make them rusty - instead of rested.
That being said I was able to watch most of the Celtics/Cavaliers Game 7 game yesterday.
In 1988, another Celtics Game 7 semifinal battle, included two superstars trying to will their teams into the next round. It is deemed one of the greatest playoff battles of all-time. Larry Bird's Celtics prevailed, thanks to Bird's 34 points (20 in the fourth quarter), over Dominique Wilkins' Atlanta Hawks. Wilkins scored a game-high 47 points in the contest, but fell to the mighty Celtics. The two combined for 81 points in a memorable battle.
In today's game, the superstar very rarely guards the other team's superstar at both ends of the court. As a coach it makes sense, why would you want to tire out your offensive juggernaut on the defensive side of the ball?
But yesterday, Cleveland's LeBron James and Boston's Paul Pierce settled in for a battle of the ages - as they not only guarded each other, but surpassed the brilliance of the Bird/Wilkins matchup.
Pierce erupted for 41 points to lead the No. 1 seeded Celtics into the Eastern Conference Finals with a 97-92 victory over the Cavaliers. James, however, didn't go down without a fight as he poured in a game-high 45 points. The combined 86 points surpasses that of the Bird/Wilkins duel.It's something you don't get to witness too often in basketball - two players on opposite teams, totally taking over the game - trying to will their team to victory. But when you do, it's magical.
I fear that the 14 total games the Celtics have been forced to play will hurt their chances against a rested Detroit Pistons squad. Boston has yet to win a game on the road, so a loss in either of the first two games at home to the Pistons could prove detrimental. I shudder of the thought of Detroit making it back to the Finals. Hopefully the layoff will make them rusty - instead of rested.
(Large movie review coming later today)
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