MVP: Kobe Bryant, Lakers I felt the last couple years he should have won this award, but with his scoring as high as its ever been and his assists going up thanks to finally having good teammates to pass the ball to, there's little doubt Kobe deserves this award. As tough as the West has been this year, to finish ahead of teams like Utah, San Antonio and Phoenix, who have just as much, if not more talent than this team is a tribute to Kobe's overall brilliance. Now that the playoffs are upon him, he's got every shot to carry this team to the Finals and a shot at possibly a fourth ring.
Rookie of the Year: Kevin Durant, Sonics He was the only rookie out of this class to play close to a star level, as Durant is already a natural scorer facing up. His poor shooting can be somewhat attributed to his shot selection, which will improve over time, but also due to the fact that he was often playing out of position. He's probably more of a SF, as he has a very good mid-range game, but he was streaky from the perimeter at the SG spot. Al Horford and Luis Scola had solid years as well and experience a bit more team success, but their scoring numbers aren't close to Durant's and they didn't get quite enough rebounds to make up for it.
Coach of the Year: Byron Scott, Hornets One of the big keys for the Hornets this year was staying healthy, but even so, Scott's team, outside of Chris Paul, still had a lot of question marks and he deserves a lot of credit for getting so much out of Tyson Chandler and Peja Stojakovic, the former a raw talent still trying to reach his potential and the latter a shooting star who had missed parts of the last two years with injuries. He also uses his bench well, letting guys like Jannero Pargo and Julian Wright earn minutes through their strong play and the team chemistry he's had has allowed the Hornets to compete with the West's elite and surprise everybody by clinching the stacked Southwest Division.
Defensive Player of the Year: Kevin Garnett, Celtics Doc Rivers's hiring of Tom Thibodeau to manage the defense was a brilliant move, and the alpha dog in his system has been none other than KG. His rebounding and blocked shot numbers are actually surprisingly low for his standards, but a big part of the Celtics' 66 wins has been giving up the fewest points per game in the NBA. Garnett's presence in the paint has allowed Allen, Pierce and Rondo to gamble for steals. He's constantly active, making plays to disrupt ball rotation and force bad shots. The truth is, Garnett has always been a standout player defensively. He's just getting a chance to show it more on a team built for success.
Most Improved Player: Al Jefferson, Timberwolves While he's nowhere close to KG defensively, Jefferson's one of a small handful of players to average over 20 ppg and 10 rpg this past season. Since he's pretty much the T-Wolves only reliable offensive weapon, he's gotten more touches and has developed a rhythm with his smooth post-up game. He did it despite playing out of position at center for much of the year, so it's imperative that McHale find a good big man to take pressure off of him.
Sixth Man of the Year: Manu Ginobili, Spurs Ginobili led all reserves in scoring and has thrived in the role, as his hustle and energy is actually more valuable on the second unit. Don't be fooled though, because you know Popovich will have this fearless clutch shooter out on the floor in crunch time. Whether it's acrobatic shots or fancy passes, Ginobili is a playmaker deluxe and a real pain in the ass to play against.
Round 1
Eastern Conference
Celtics vs Hawks This should be a good warmup series for the Celtics and a chance to rest plenty of their starters if they can take care of business. The Hawks have a lot of young talent, the problem is they're inexperienced on the big stage. Against a tough defense like Boston, they'll be forced to rely too much on Joe Johnson, who's their only real threat as a scorer.
Key Matchup: Rondo vs Bibby If the Hawks want any shot in this series, Bibby is going to have to win this battle. He has the edge in postseason experience, but as long as Rondo plays within himself and plays the same harrassing defense on Bibby he plays on everyone else, the C's should win handily.
Prediction: Celtics in 4
Pistons vs Sixers The Pistons have as deep a team as the 2004 squad that won the NBA title, as Joe Dumars' draft brilliance has landed the Pistons a good enough bench to give the starters rest in key stretches. That bench will be sorely needed in this series as well, as the Pistons go against a young, athletic Sixers' team playing with a ton of confidence.
Key Matchup: Tayshaun Prince vs Andre Igoudala The big key for Prince won't be to shut Igoudala down, as that's very hard to do, but to force him to shoot a low percentage and work some of his unorthodox offense into the picture. As long as Prince is active on defense and doesn't get shut out of the offense, the Pistons have an easy series. If Iggy goes off though, they're in for a battle.
Prediction: Pistons in 5
Magic vs Raptors These two teams are built in similar fashion. Both have dominant PF's who control the paint for their respective ballclubs and plenty of great shooters to surround them with. The difference is Orlando's a little bit better and Toronto's backcourt isn't consistent enough to exploit the Magic's glaring weakness in their own backcourt.
Key Matchup: Jamario Moon vs Hedo Turkoglu Moon is the X-factor in this series. He'll be asked to guard the Magic's most improved player and help out Bosh on the boards, as he'll have his hands full with man-beast Dwight Howard. If he can take away Turkoglu as a weapon, the Raptors will limit the Magic's scoring options and put more pressure on Howard to deliver inside.
Prediction: Magic in 6
Cavaliers vs Wizards The Wizards have been sent home, courtesy of these same Cavs, in each of the last two years. Still, they come into this series with a lot of swagger with Arenas and Butler finally healed from injuries. Cleveland, meanwhile, has struggled to find an identity since making the blockbuster trade that sent Larry Hughes and Drew Gooden to Chicago. Ben Wallace has been laboring in back pain, Wally Sczezerbiak has cratered under pressure, shooting very poorly, and Daniel Gibson has been slow recovering from an injury that put him out most of the second half. LeBron is capable of a monster series and the Cavs need one from him if they want to get any further than round 1.
Key Matchup: DeShawn Stevenson vs LeBron James If history is any indication, Stevenson would be ill-served to badmouth LeBron James. The last thing you want to do to a competitor like James is piss him off. While he's certainly an able defender, he better stay in front of LeBron as much as possible and hope his shot isn't falling. Otherwise, he'll live in infamy with the Craig Ehlos and Bryon Russells of the world.
Prediction: Cavaliers in 7
Western Conference
Lakers vs Nuggets This should be an entertaining, high-scoring series with three of the top five scorers in the league playing. A high scoring game could be Denver's worst nightmare too, as LA has one gunslinger in Kobe Bryant who can outduel the explosive tandem of Carmelo Anthony and Allen Iverson. He also has two teammates in Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol with brilliant post-games, with both players complimenting each other extremely well. As good as Anthony and Iverson are as individuals, they both need the ball to dominate and neither is a good enough outside shooter to stretch the defense.
Key Matchup: Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom vs Marcus Camby and Kenyon Martin For Denver to have a shot in this series, they'll have to get it done on the defensive end. If Camby and Martin can rough up and intimidate the Lakers' stars, Denver has a shot in this series, provided they can also get contributions off the bench from Linas Kleiza and JR Smith.
Prediction: Lakers in 6
Hornets vs Mavericks If any series is ripe with upset potential, this is it. Dallas has been on fire since Nowitzki returned from injury and they're adjusting to playing with PG magician Jason Kidd. The Hornets, meanwhile, are a little green on the big stage and have never won a game in Dallas. If they can't defend the homecourt, they maybe going home early this year.
Key Matchup: Jason Kidd vs Chris Paul This is the biggest intrigue surrounding the series. Jason Kidd has been one of the premier PG's in the NBA for the past decade, but now Paul is looking to take the torch from him. Whoever does the best job of getting their teammates involved is coming out victorious in this series.
Prediction: Mavericks in 6
Spurs vs Suns The matchup of the first round, without question. Whoever wins this series makes a good case for the conference finals, maybe even the NBA Finals. The Suns have been hell bent on revenge against the Spurs, but knew the only way to do it was to get a strong half court player. So they took a gamble with chemistry and traded for the biggest, strongest player in the league, the Shaq-daddy himself. While Phoenix has had its ups and downs defensively and has had some trouble adjusting to slowing things down with O'Neal on the floor, if anyone has benefitted from this trade, it's Amare Stoudemire. He's showing more of his game now that he's playing his natural position of PF and taking bigger, slower players off the dribble while showing improving range on his jump shot. For Phoenix to win and overcome their hurdle, however, he'll have to outshine Tim Duncan, which is by no stretch of the imagination easy.
Key Matchup: Amare Stoudemire vs Kurt Thomas Thomas is a rugged defender, but he'll undoubtedly have his hands full with Amare, who's becoming a load in the low block. The biggest key will be playing physically enough to frustaurate Stoudemire the same way he frustaurated Duncan at times last year. He'll get his help with Oberto and at times Duncan checking him, but with Shaq on the team, he'll get more room to make his moves, which could spell doom for the defending champs.
Prediction: Spurs in 7
Rockets vs Jazz This is a rematch of last year's thrilling first round series, one that started so well for Tracy McGrady, Yao Ming and the Rockets but ended so badly with the Jazz's talent and depth outlasting the Rockets in a heartbreaking Game 7 loss. They did just enough to clinch home court advantage this year, riding out a 22-game winning streak even with Yao's season-ending foot injury and barely holding off the surging Jazz, even after losing to them on the road in the second-to-last game of the year. Not getting home court advantage could be troublesome for the Jazz, as they'll once again have to steal a game in Houston to win this series. They have a huge opportunity to do so as well, with Rafer Alston out for the first two games.
Key Matchup: Luis Scola, Chuck Hayes and Carl Landry vs Carlos Boozer One of the areas the Rockets upgraded from last season is at PF, swiping Scola from the Spurs and getting a second-round steal in Landry to compliment Hayes. Hayes is the smallest of the three big forwards, but he's also the most experienced and the toughest defensively. They'll all have their hands full with Boozer, but if Scola and Landry can provide some bonus offense, they could swing things more in the Rockets' favor. Tragically, though, without Yao in the middle, the Rockets may not be quite the same offensive force, so their defense will have to be strong for seven games against the sharpest-shooting team in the league.
Prediction: Jazz in 6
Friday, April 18, 2008
Week 24 NBA Rankings
1. Boston Celtics (66-16) (1) For what its worth, even when Rivers rested the starters, the C's still went 8-1 down the stretch. The key to them advancing in the playoffs though, will be the continued maturity of Rondo and Perkins.
2. Detroit Pistons (59-23) (3) Going into the postseason, the Pistons will get a much-needed boost off the bench from Stuckey, Affalo and Maxiell, three youngsters who have blossomed into excellent talents.
3. Los Angeles Lakers (57-25) (6) Clinching the #1 was important only for homecourt advantage, but it'll be tough working Bynum back into the flow with a tough Denver squad on their hands.
4. New Orleans Hornets (56-26) (2) The biggest knock on this team is their inexperience, but nonetheless, if Paul can elevate his game and if they can find a way to get a road game, they may have just enough to squeeze past Dallas.
5. San Antonio Spurs (56-26) (5) If the Utah game is any indication, the defending champs look primed to defend their title in a stacked Western Conference.
6. Houston Rockets (55-27) (7) They deserve all the credit in the world for finishing in the top 5 in the West, but it'll be tough handling Deron Williams in the first two games with Rafer on the sidelines.
7. Phoenix Suns (55-27) (4) They have the swagger with Shaq and they've beaten the Spurs twice since acqiring him, but are the Suns tough enough to take them out this year and redeem themselves from last year's heartwrenching defeat?
8. Utah Jazz (54-28) (8) They're a different team on the road than they are at home, but those 17 road wins do include a few impressive ones, such as Detroit, Boston and NO.
9. Dallas Mavericks (51-31) (10) Overall, it isn't the 67-win explosion from last year, but the Mavs appear to be peaking at just the right time.
10. Denver Nuggets (50-32) (11) They're a dangerous 8 seed just b/c of the talent AI and Carmelo have, but if they can get production out of Smith and Kleiza as well, they could give LA fits.
11. Orlando Magic (52-30) (9) Having Big Dwight's probably enough to get them a round, but beyond that, the Magic's streaky backcourt will be their undoing against the Pistons.
12. Golden State Warriors (48-34) (12) Nellie's well on his way to burning bridges with another superstar when he benched Baron Davis for the entire second half of the Phoenix game, which the Warriors lost, sealing their season.
13. Cleveland Cavaliers (45-37) (13) A repeat run to the Finals is very unlikely, as LeBron may have to work even harder this year to get them there.
14. Washington Wizards (43-39) (14) Well, DeShawn wanted LeBron, now he gets a full seven games of him. Lets hope his whole career isn't defined by a buzz-quote.
15. Toronto Raptors (41-41) (16) I might pick the Raptors to upset the Magic, except for the fact that their backcourt is just as streaky.
16. Philadelphia 76ers (40-42) (15) Its too bad that the Sixers, as well as they've played, get the daunting task of facing the playoff-savvy Pistons. Any other matchup and I'd have them penciled in for an upset.
17. Portland Trail Blazers (41-41) (17) They tailed off after the early hot-streak, but the Blazers have to feel optimistic about an 11-game improvement and Oden's eventual return.
18. Atlanta Hawks (37-45) (18) About the only intrigue the Hawks bring to their 1st round matchup is how Joe Johnson fares against his old team.
19. Sacramento Kings (38-44) (20) I have to give Artest credit. No blowups this year and the coach actually wants him back.
20. Indiana Pacers (36-46) (19) They couldn't overcome all the injuries and felonies in the world to get back to the postseason, but at least Dunlevy finally matured into a good player.
21. New Jersey Nets (34-48) (21) Until they get leaders with more heart than Carter and Jefferson, the Nets will continue to fall short of expectations.
22. Chicago Bulls (33-49) (22) Winning the lotto might be about the only way Paxson saves his job.
23. Charlotte Bobcats (32-50) (23) While Paul and Williams have become dominant players after three years, Felton is just barely holding onto his starting job on a mediocre ballclub.
24. Milwaukee Bucks (26-56) (24) The Krystowiak experiment bombed badly, so it's no surprise they dumped him.
25. New York Knicks (23-59) (25) With the season over, day 1 of the Knicks' overpublicized coaching search is underway.
26. Los Angeles Clippers (23-59) (26) Elton already put up close to his prime numbers in just six games and should be back in top form after an offseason of rest.
27. Minnesota Timberwolves (22-60) (28) If they can get Brook Lopez in the draft, along with Jefferson and Gomes, they'll have a pretty good young front line.
28. Memphis Grizzlies (22-60) (27) Once again, huge mistake to fire Iavaroni. You can't make a young team better by constantly shuffling coaches.
29. Seattle Supersonics (20-62) (29) With the season in ruin and the team on their way out, Durant's 42-point performance may have helped him clinch ROY honors.
30. Miami Heat (15-67) (30) You know if Wade and Marion aren't at the Heat games, they're pretty much everywhere on South Beach.
2. Detroit Pistons (59-23) (3) Going into the postseason, the Pistons will get a much-needed boost off the bench from Stuckey, Affalo and Maxiell, three youngsters who have blossomed into excellent talents.
3. Los Angeles Lakers (57-25) (6) Clinching the #1 was important only for homecourt advantage, but it'll be tough working Bynum back into the flow with a tough Denver squad on their hands.
4. New Orleans Hornets (56-26) (2) The biggest knock on this team is their inexperience, but nonetheless, if Paul can elevate his game and if they can find a way to get a road game, they may have just enough to squeeze past Dallas.
5. San Antonio Spurs (56-26) (5) If the Utah game is any indication, the defending champs look primed to defend their title in a stacked Western Conference.
6. Houston Rockets (55-27) (7) They deserve all the credit in the world for finishing in the top 5 in the West, but it'll be tough handling Deron Williams in the first two games with Rafer on the sidelines.
7. Phoenix Suns (55-27) (4) They have the swagger with Shaq and they've beaten the Spurs twice since acqiring him, but are the Suns tough enough to take them out this year and redeem themselves from last year's heartwrenching defeat?
8. Utah Jazz (54-28) (8) They're a different team on the road than they are at home, but those 17 road wins do include a few impressive ones, such as Detroit, Boston and NO.
9. Dallas Mavericks (51-31) (10) Overall, it isn't the 67-win explosion from last year, but the Mavs appear to be peaking at just the right time.
10. Denver Nuggets (50-32) (11) They're a dangerous 8 seed just b/c of the talent AI and Carmelo have, but if they can get production out of Smith and Kleiza as well, they could give LA fits.
11. Orlando Magic (52-30) (9) Having Big Dwight's probably enough to get them a round, but beyond that, the Magic's streaky backcourt will be their undoing against the Pistons.
12. Golden State Warriors (48-34) (12) Nellie's well on his way to burning bridges with another superstar when he benched Baron Davis for the entire second half of the Phoenix game, which the Warriors lost, sealing their season.
13. Cleveland Cavaliers (45-37) (13) A repeat run to the Finals is very unlikely, as LeBron may have to work even harder this year to get them there.
14. Washington Wizards (43-39) (14) Well, DeShawn wanted LeBron, now he gets a full seven games of him. Lets hope his whole career isn't defined by a buzz-quote.
15. Toronto Raptors (41-41) (16) I might pick the Raptors to upset the Magic, except for the fact that their backcourt is just as streaky.
16. Philadelphia 76ers (40-42) (15) Its too bad that the Sixers, as well as they've played, get the daunting task of facing the playoff-savvy Pistons. Any other matchup and I'd have them penciled in for an upset.
17. Portland Trail Blazers (41-41) (17) They tailed off after the early hot-streak, but the Blazers have to feel optimistic about an 11-game improvement and Oden's eventual return.
18. Atlanta Hawks (37-45) (18) About the only intrigue the Hawks bring to their 1st round matchup is how Joe Johnson fares against his old team.
19. Sacramento Kings (38-44) (20) I have to give Artest credit. No blowups this year and the coach actually wants him back.
20. Indiana Pacers (36-46) (19) They couldn't overcome all the injuries and felonies in the world to get back to the postseason, but at least Dunlevy finally matured into a good player.
21. New Jersey Nets (34-48) (21) Until they get leaders with more heart than Carter and Jefferson, the Nets will continue to fall short of expectations.
22. Chicago Bulls (33-49) (22) Winning the lotto might be about the only way Paxson saves his job.
23. Charlotte Bobcats (32-50) (23) While Paul and Williams have become dominant players after three years, Felton is just barely holding onto his starting job on a mediocre ballclub.
24. Milwaukee Bucks (26-56) (24) The Krystowiak experiment bombed badly, so it's no surprise they dumped him.
25. New York Knicks (23-59) (25) With the season over, day 1 of the Knicks' overpublicized coaching search is underway.
26. Los Angeles Clippers (23-59) (26) Elton already put up close to his prime numbers in just six games and should be back in top form after an offseason of rest.
27. Minnesota Timberwolves (22-60) (28) If they can get Brook Lopez in the draft, along with Jefferson and Gomes, they'll have a pretty good young front line.
28. Memphis Grizzlies (22-60) (27) Once again, huge mistake to fire Iavaroni. You can't make a young team better by constantly shuffling coaches.
29. Seattle Supersonics (20-62) (29) With the season in ruin and the team on their way out, Durant's 42-point performance may have helped him clinch ROY honors.
30. Miami Heat (15-67) (30) You know if Wade and Marion aren't at the Heat games, they're pretty much everywhere on South Beach.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Mock Draft
1. Miami Dolphins-Jake Long, OT, Michigan
2. St. Louis Rams-Chris Long, DE, Virginia
3. Atlanta Falcons-Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
4. Oakland Raiders-Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
5. Kansas City Chiefs-Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
6. New York Jets-Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.
7. New England Patriots (via San Francisco)-Keith Rivers, OLB, USC
8. Baltimore Ravens-Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
9. Cincinnati Bengals-Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
10. New Orleans Saints-Jerod Mayo, OLB, Tennessee
11. Buffalo Bills-Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
12. Denver Broncos-Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
13. Carolina Panthers-Branden Albert, OG, Virginia
14. Chicago Bears-Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
15. Detroit Lions-Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
16. Arizona Cardinals-Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
17. Kansas City Chiefs (via Minnesota)-Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
18. Houston Texans-Dominique Rogers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee St.
19. Philadelphia Eagles-Johnathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan St.
21. Washington Redskins-Philip Merling, DE, Clemson
22. Dallas Cowboys (via Cleveland)-Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
23. Pittsburgh Steelers-Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
24. Tennessee Titans-Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
25. Seattle Seahawks-Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue
26. Jacksonville Jaguars-Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
27. San Diego Chargers-Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
28. Dallas Cowboys-Early Doucet, WR, LSU
29. San Francisco 49ers-Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
30. Green Bay Packers-Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech
31. New York Giants-Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
2. St. Louis Rams-Chris Long, DE, Virginia
3. Atlanta Falcons-Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
4. Oakland Raiders-Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
5. Kansas City Chiefs-Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
6. New York Jets-Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.
7. New England Patriots (via San Francisco)-Keith Rivers, OLB, USC
8. Baltimore Ravens-Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
9. Cincinnati Bengals-Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
10. New Orleans Saints-Jerod Mayo, OLB, Tennessee
11. Buffalo Bills-Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
12. Denver Broncos-Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
13. Carolina Panthers-Branden Albert, OG, Virginia
14. Chicago Bears-Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
15. Detroit Lions-Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
16. Arizona Cardinals-Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
17. Kansas City Chiefs (via Minnesota)-Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
18. Houston Texans-Dominique Rogers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee St.
19. Philadelphia Eagles-Johnathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan St.
21. Washington Redskins-Philip Merling, DE, Clemson
22. Dallas Cowboys (via Cleveland)-Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
23. Pittsburgh Steelers-Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
24. Tennessee Titans-Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
25. Seattle Seahawks-Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue
26. Jacksonville Jaguars-Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
27. San Diego Chargers-Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
28. Dallas Cowboys-Early Doucet, WR, LSU
29. San Francisco 49ers-Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
30. Green Bay Packers-Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech
31. New York Giants-Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Week 23 NBA Rankings
1. Boston Celtics (62-16) (1) The C's just better hope Cassell's back is healed up enough for one more playoff run, but the good news is Rondo has been so good, they may not need to worry about him until the inevitable matchup with Detroit.
2. New Orleans Hornets (55-23) (4) All they have to do is wrap up the conference and Paul's pretty much a lock for MVP.
3. Detroit Pistons (55-23) (2) That was so gracious of the Pistons to basically tank a game for Isiah.
4. Phoenix Suns (53-26) (6) If they have to start the playoffs on the road, they'll be kicking themselves over that one awful quarter against Dallas.
5. San Antonio Spurs (53-25) (3) The fact they've had such anemic offensive outputs in the last week has to be alarming to the Defending Champs.
6. Los Angeles Lakers (53-25) (5) Bynum is sure taking his sweet time, which can't be good news for the Lakers if they have to face Shaq and the Suns in the first round.
7. Houston Rockets (53-25) (8) If they can't get Yao back, at least get Landry back at full strength so TMac can finally get past the first round.
8. Utah Jazz (52-26) (7) With the division title in reach, the Jazz turned it up a couple notches defensively to stifle the Spurs and Hornets and solidify at least a #4 spot.
9. Orlando Magic (49-29) (9) Marcin Gortat will probably get cut on the grounds of playing too physical, even if Howard doesn't miss a game after getting elbowed in the mouth.
10. Dallas Mavericks (49-29) (10) Lets not get too excited, after all, they were expected to play like this all year and they finally put it together in the 4th quarter in Phoenix.
11. Denver Nuggets (47-31) (11) Losses to the Kings and Sonics have set the stage for a showdown with the Warriors that will likely determine who gets the 8th seed.
12. Golden State Warriors (47-31) (12) So get your popcorn ready, there will be an abundance of points in this game.
13. Cleveland Cavaliers (43-35) (13) LeBron's back better be ok, its the Cavs only shot at advancing a round in the postseason.
14. Washington Wizards (41-37) (16) A lot of pundits seem to like Washington to pull the upset in round 1, but I'm not convinced unless Gilbert fully embraces the 6th man role.
15. Philadelphia 76ers (40-38) (14) Igoudala has earned every penny of that $50 million dollar deal upcoming this offseason.
16. Toronto Raptors (39-39) (15) You want to stay away from the Pistons in round 1, but unfortunately, that's exactly where the Raptors are headed.
17. Portland Trail Blazers (39-39) (18) If they get a top 3 pick this year, the FBI will be in David Stern's office by tomorrow, and that's a promise.
18. Atlanta Hawks (36-42) (17) I mean, if you're going to be the #8 seed, at least rep it right, otherwise give it up!
19. Indiana Pacers (34-44) (20) JO got back just in time, but they still have some ground to make up.
20. Sacramento Kings (36-42) (19) I'd like to congratuate the Kings for allowing a 140-point game in regulation. The NBA needed it.
21. New Jersey Nets (32-46) (21) Throw a white flag on their season. When you lose to a Magic team with nothing to play for and a playoff seed on lock, you don't deserve to be in the playoffs even if you're "technically" alive.
22. Chicago Bulls (30-48) (22) What a way to finish such a massive disappointment, by dropping a game to the depleted Heat.
23. Charlotte Bobcats (30-49) (23) The Bobcats are naming thier new arena Time Warner Cable. Oh, good, there's another cable owner in New York who's being dragged through the mud right now...
24. Milwaukee Bucks (26-52) (24) They really haven't been significant in twenty years, save that one playoff run in 2002. I'd happily cast my vote for Simmons to run that team (no, not you Bobby, you owe the Bucks money anyways).
25. New York Knicks (23-56) (28) The minute Walsh takes the GM job, you win 4 in a row? Good job Isiah, at least you keep your post about a week longer.
26. Los Angeles Clippers (23-55) (25) Well, in a week, Elgin can start scouting at least, after all, he's a veteran at this by now.
27. Memphis Grizzlies (21-57) (26) 3.1 points and 3.7 rebounds. Yup, I'm sure that was what Wallace was looking for in return for Gasol.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves (19-59) (27) Oh, poor Antoine. Look at it this way, at least you're getting a paycheck.
29. Seattle Supersonics (18-61) (29) So the Sonics are giving giveaways to the fans before moving the team. I have one, how about a pistol that shoots out Sonics merchandise as the fans point it to their heads.
30. Miami Heat (14-64) (30) Now that the tournaments over, what's Pat's next excuse for his leave of absence from the Heat?
2. New Orleans Hornets (55-23) (4) All they have to do is wrap up the conference and Paul's pretty much a lock for MVP.
3. Detroit Pistons (55-23) (2) That was so gracious of the Pistons to basically tank a game for Isiah.
4. Phoenix Suns (53-26) (6) If they have to start the playoffs on the road, they'll be kicking themselves over that one awful quarter against Dallas.
5. San Antonio Spurs (53-25) (3) The fact they've had such anemic offensive outputs in the last week has to be alarming to the Defending Champs.
6. Los Angeles Lakers (53-25) (5) Bynum is sure taking his sweet time, which can't be good news for the Lakers if they have to face Shaq and the Suns in the first round.
7. Houston Rockets (53-25) (8) If they can't get Yao back, at least get Landry back at full strength so TMac can finally get past the first round.
8. Utah Jazz (52-26) (7) With the division title in reach, the Jazz turned it up a couple notches defensively to stifle the Spurs and Hornets and solidify at least a #4 spot.
9. Orlando Magic (49-29) (9) Marcin Gortat will probably get cut on the grounds of playing too physical, even if Howard doesn't miss a game after getting elbowed in the mouth.
10. Dallas Mavericks (49-29) (10) Lets not get too excited, after all, they were expected to play like this all year and they finally put it together in the 4th quarter in Phoenix.
11. Denver Nuggets (47-31) (11) Losses to the Kings and Sonics have set the stage for a showdown with the Warriors that will likely determine who gets the 8th seed.
12. Golden State Warriors (47-31) (12) So get your popcorn ready, there will be an abundance of points in this game.
13. Cleveland Cavaliers (43-35) (13) LeBron's back better be ok, its the Cavs only shot at advancing a round in the postseason.
14. Washington Wizards (41-37) (16) A lot of pundits seem to like Washington to pull the upset in round 1, but I'm not convinced unless Gilbert fully embraces the 6th man role.
15. Philadelphia 76ers (40-38) (14) Igoudala has earned every penny of that $50 million dollar deal upcoming this offseason.
16. Toronto Raptors (39-39) (15) You want to stay away from the Pistons in round 1, but unfortunately, that's exactly where the Raptors are headed.
17. Portland Trail Blazers (39-39) (18) If they get a top 3 pick this year, the FBI will be in David Stern's office by tomorrow, and that's a promise.
18. Atlanta Hawks (36-42) (17) I mean, if you're going to be the #8 seed, at least rep it right, otherwise give it up!
19. Indiana Pacers (34-44) (20) JO got back just in time, but they still have some ground to make up.
20. Sacramento Kings (36-42) (19) I'd like to congratuate the Kings for allowing a 140-point game in regulation. The NBA needed it.
21. New Jersey Nets (32-46) (21) Throw a white flag on their season. When you lose to a Magic team with nothing to play for and a playoff seed on lock, you don't deserve to be in the playoffs even if you're "technically" alive.
22. Chicago Bulls (30-48) (22) What a way to finish such a massive disappointment, by dropping a game to the depleted Heat.
23. Charlotte Bobcats (30-49) (23) The Bobcats are naming thier new arena Time Warner Cable. Oh, good, there's another cable owner in New York who's being dragged through the mud right now...
24. Milwaukee Bucks (26-52) (24) They really haven't been significant in twenty years, save that one playoff run in 2002. I'd happily cast my vote for Simmons to run that team (no, not you Bobby, you owe the Bucks money anyways).
25. New York Knicks (23-56) (28) The minute Walsh takes the GM job, you win 4 in a row? Good job Isiah, at least you keep your post about a week longer.
26. Los Angeles Clippers (23-55) (25) Well, in a week, Elgin can start scouting at least, after all, he's a veteran at this by now.
27. Memphis Grizzlies (21-57) (26) 3.1 points and 3.7 rebounds. Yup, I'm sure that was what Wallace was looking for in return for Gasol.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves (19-59) (27) Oh, poor Antoine. Look at it this way, at least you're getting a paycheck.
29. Seattle Supersonics (18-61) (29) So the Sonics are giving giveaways to the fans before moving the team. I have one, how about a pistol that shoots out Sonics merchandise as the fans point it to their heads.
30. Miami Heat (14-64) (30) Now that the tournaments over, what's Pat's next excuse for his leave of absence from the Heat?
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Week 22 NBA Rankings
1. Boston Celtics (60-15) (1) About the only thing the Celtics have to fear is random mascots firing shirts at them.
2. Detroit Pistons (53-21) (3) Stuckey had his first big breakout game with a 27 point performance against the TWolves.
3. San Antonio Spurs (52-23) (4) One of the biggest keys to the winning streak has been the Spurs' stifling defense, which has held 6 of 8 opponents under 90 during their 8-game winning streak.
4. New Orleans Hornets (52-22) (2) Just one more week and the Hornets will have made the playoffs, completing an incredible four-year rebuilding success.
5. Los Angeles Lakers (51-24) (7) Ira Newble will be a popular interview in a year when people ask him who's better between Kobe and LeBron.
6. Phoenix Suns (50-25) (6) I'm guessing the basket manufacturers in New Jersey aren't the biggest Shaq fans in the world.
7. Utah Jazz (50-26) (8) CJ Miles made things happen with a career-high 29 points when given an opportunity against the Wizards.
8. Houston Rockets (49-25) (5) Reality has set in, as the Rockets have now fallen to 6th in the West since their 22-game winning streak.
9. Orlando Magic (47-28) (9) With the Magic struggling to rebound and Cook getting hurt, the Magic don't want to face a big team like the Raptors in round 1.
10. Dallas Mavericks (47-28) (12) Dirk's comeback was huge in a pivotal showdown with the Warriors, as the Mavs now have some breathing room to work with in this congested race.
11. Denver Nuggets (46-29) (11) After going 3-1 in a four game stretch against the Suns, Mavs and Warriors, the Nuggets can feel better about their playoff chances.
12. Golden State Warriors (45-30) (10) The Warriors' offense suddenly has gone flat in the last two games, and they couldn't have picked a worse time.
13. Cleveland Cavaliers (42-33) (14) Big Ben's Big Bad Back is once again giving out on him.
14. Philadelphia 76ers (38-37) (13) The Sixers' ascent to .500 has been nothing short of miraculous and they'll be a tough out in the postseason.
15. Toronto Raptors (38-37) (17) The Raptors can't help but feel a little cheated by the Hawks' scorekeeper.
16. Washington Wizards (38-37) (16) It was almost the perfect storybook ending, but Ramon Sessions' game-winner foiled Arenas's much anticipated return.
17. Atlanta Hawks (35-40) (18) If you watched your team miss the playoffs for the last eight years and they're finally looking like they have a shot, wouldn't you alter the outcome of games as well?
18. Portland Trail Blazers (38-37) (15) With their playoff hopes dashed, the best the Blazers can do is play spoiler.
19. Sacramento Kings (34-40) (19) A lot of people were quick to criticize the Kings for signing him, but Mikki Moore has earned his contract with his performance this year.
20. Indiana Pacers (31-44) (21) Donnie Walsh's curious decision to take over the Knicks' GM job has everything to do with Bird's longstanding vendetta against Zeke.
21. New Jersey Nets (31-44) (20) Increasing the tempo will only work if the Nets exert more effort on the defensive end.
22. Chicago Bulls (29-45) (22) If the other Bull players were as accurate shooting a basketball as Benny the Bull is with the shirt-gun, they wouldn't lose half as many games as they've lost.
23. Charlotte Bobcats (28-47) (23) Anyone else see Morrison's 'do when he was spotted in the stands at the Gonzaga game? He's traded the Jim Morrison 'stache for more of a grunge look.
24. Milwaukee Bucks (26-48) (25) I wonder how Bobby Simmons must feel stealing all that money from the Bucks.
25. Los Angeles Clippers (23-52) (26) Elton's back! Hooray! Now my fantasy team has a real shot at winning it all!
26. Memphis Grizzlies (20-55) (28) Why are the Grizzlies running Iavaroni out? Who expected this team to actually be good?
27. Minnesota Timberwolves (19-55) (24) Taylor wants to talk about KG tanking it, but how do you explain his team losing to Detroit's backups?
28. New York Knicks (20-55) (26) Isiah's at about that point in his coaching tenure with the Knicks as Denzel was in training day before he got gunned down by the Russian mob.
29. Seattle Supersonics (17-58) (29) Fred Brown is admirable for trying to save the Sonics with a new arena proposal, but he just doesn't carry the clout of a Clay Bennett.
30. Miami Heat (13-62) (30) Why does Shaq have to cause drama to every team that trades him?
2. Detroit Pistons (53-21) (3) Stuckey had his first big breakout game with a 27 point performance against the TWolves.
3. San Antonio Spurs (52-23) (4) One of the biggest keys to the winning streak has been the Spurs' stifling defense, which has held 6 of 8 opponents under 90 during their 8-game winning streak.
4. New Orleans Hornets (52-22) (2) Just one more week and the Hornets will have made the playoffs, completing an incredible four-year rebuilding success.
5. Los Angeles Lakers (51-24) (7) Ira Newble will be a popular interview in a year when people ask him who's better between Kobe and LeBron.
6. Phoenix Suns (50-25) (6) I'm guessing the basket manufacturers in New Jersey aren't the biggest Shaq fans in the world.
7. Utah Jazz (50-26) (8) CJ Miles made things happen with a career-high 29 points when given an opportunity against the Wizards.
8. Houston Rockets (49-25) (5) Reality has set in, as the Rockets have now fallen to 6th in the West since their 22-game winning streak.
9. Orlando Magic (47-28) (9) With the Magic struggling to rebound and Cook getting hurt, the Magic don't want to face a big team like the Raptors in round 1.
10. Dallas Mavericks (47-28) (12) Dirk's comeback was huge in a pivotal showdown with the Warriors, as the Mavs now have some breathing room to work with in this congested race.
11. Denver Nuggets (46-29) (11) After going 3-1 in a four game stretch against the Suns, Mavs and Warriors, the Nuggets can feel better about their playoff chances.
12. Golden State Warriors (45-30) (10) The Warriors' offense suddenly has gone flat in the last two games, and they couldn't have picked a worse time.
13. Cleveland Cavaliers (42-33) (14) Big Ben's Big Bad Back is once again giving out on him.
14. Philadelphia 76ers (38-37) (13) The Sixers' ascent to .500 has been nothing short of miraculous and they'll be a tough out in the postseason.
15. Toronto Raptors (38-37) (17) The Raptors can't help but feel a little cheated by the Hawks' scorekeeper.
16. Washington Wizards (38-37) (16) It was almost the perfect storybook ending, but Ramon Sessions' game-winner foiled Arenas's much anticipated return.
17. Atlanta Hawks (35-40) (18) If you watched your team miss the playoffs for the last eight years and they're finally looking like they have a shot, wouldn't you alter the outcome of games as well?
18. Portland Trail Blazers (38-37) (15) With their playoff hopes dashed, the best the Blazers can do is play spoiler.
19. Sacramento Kings (34-40) (19) A lot of people were quick to criticize the Kings for signing him, but Mikki Moore has earned his contract with his performance this year.
20. Indiana Pacers (31-44) (21) Donnie Walsh's curious decision to take over the Knicks' GM job has everything to do with Bird's longstanding vendetta against Zeke.
21. New Jersey Nets (31-44) (20) Increasing the tempo will only work if the Nets exert more effort on the defensive end.
22. Chicago Bulls (29-45) (22) If the other Bull players were as accurate shooting a basketball as Benny the Bull is with the shirt-gun, they wouldn't lose half as many games as they've lost.
23. Charlotte Bobcats (28-47) (23) Anyone else see Morrison's 'do when he was spotted in the stands at the Gonzaga game? He's traded the Jim Morrison 'stache for more of a grunge look.
24. Milwaukee Bucks (26-48) (25) I wonder how Bobby Simmons must feel stealing all that money from the Bucks.
25. Los Angeles Clippers (23-52) (26) Elton's back! Hooray! Now my fantasy team has a real shot at winning it all!
26. Memphis Grizzlies (20-55) (28) Why are the Grizzlies running Iavaroni out? Who expected this team to actually be good?
27. Minnesota Timberwolves (19-55) (24) Taylor wants to talk about KG tanking it, but how do you explain his team losing to Detroit's backups?
28. New York Knicks (20-55) (26) Isiah's at about that point in his coaching tenure with the Knicks as Denzel was in training day before he got gunned down by the Russian mob.
29. Seattle Supersonics (17-58) (29) Fred Brown is admirable for trying to save the Sonics with a new arena proposal, but he just doesn't carry the clout of a Clay Bennett.
30. Miami Heat (13-62) (30) Why does Shaq have to cause drama to every team that trades him?
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Sports Media: Too Much Negativity
I woke up a full two hours before work today and decided I'd return to watching a longtime favorite of mine, SportsCenter. The show was going well, as they were covering the blow-by-blow on the harrowing NBA playoff races and opening day in baseball. By 5:30 though, I saw a clip of what drives me (and I'm sure a number of people) crazy about the sports media. I hear yet another clip on Jose Canseco ratting out yet another baseball superstar, this time Alex Rodriguez. I was never a huge ARod fan, but I've always respected his ability. I sat listening to the report shaking my head and mumbling to myself "Who's next, Hank Aaron?" Not that you can blame Canseco, after all, what's in it for him is a large amount of income if it gets his next book off the shelf. Nothing like free publicity, I always say, plus it gets him in the media spotlight just as he was getting blackballed from the sport of baseball.
If that's not enough, what's the very next story to pop up on the screen??? Oh, why Spygate of course. I think we're losing our rationale when we compare a coach stealing football signals to one of the worst events in American history. You'll never convince me that in any way compares to government officials stealing confidential security information that may have compromised the safety of our nation. Sadly enough, there are people out there who base their happiness and well being on the outcome of a football game, but that's the rationale of todays society. I don't ask much out of my sports media, but is it worth reporting negative stories at the gain of a few dollars? There are so many athletes out there doing things the right way, why not run a story on them every once in a while? It might improve the perception of sports in the eyes of the casual observer, who may find a reason to watch again.
That's all I have here, it's off to the real world now.
If that's not enough, what's the very next story to pop up on the screen??? Oh, why Spygate of course. I think we're losing our rationale when we compare a coach stealing football signals to one of the worst events in American history. You'll never convince me that in any way compares to government officials stealing confidential security information that may have compromised the safety of our nation. Sadly enough, there are people out there who base their happiness and well being on the outcome of a football game, but that's the rationale of todays society. I don't ask much out of my sports media, but is it worth reporting negative stories at the gain of a few dollars? There are so many athletes out there doing things the right way, why not run a story on them every once in a while? It might improve the perception of sports in the eyes of the casual observer, who may find a reason to watch again.
That's all I have here, it's off to the real world now.
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