Орландо Меджик друг чудесен ход

Вин-здрав разум сега се насочва към Орландо Меджик. Защо ми харесва този ход? Не само защото Винс Картър е очевидна All-Star и е показал суперзвезда потенциал, но и защото вече заредени Орландо Меджик направи ход да си себе си, дори по-натоварен. Подобно на "Матрицата" ... презареди.

Аз сравнявам положителния характер на този ход до средата на сезона ход на миналата година, когато те се търгуват за Raefer Алстън. Когато слезе Джамийр Нелсън, магията вдигна Алстън, за да се грижи от спада. В Алстън, че са намерили друго състояние точка охрана, за да стартирате етаж за магията. Сега, те са се отказали Alston и Тони Battie, за Винс Картър. И с цялата си сериозност, защото те имат все още обещаващ Нелсън в точката, това определено прави Винс Картър струва тези двама играчи, а другият няма име са се отказали да го получите.

Накрая, магията ще продължи да бъде известен като отбора, който процъфтява благодарение на трите точки игра. Те все още имат Микаел Пиетрус, Хедо Turkoglu, Rashard Люис, Джамийр Нелсън, и Къртни Лий, който може да удари трите камата. Дори може да Антъни Джонсън може да го направи. Сега те добавят Картър с Дуайт Хауърд и те имат две истински All-Star играчи на отбора си. Това доказва, че магията не са доволни от крайния резултат на тяхното сезон и аз да ги похваля за това.

2-3-2 Формат

Мои приятели, Орландо Меджик успя да запази в НБА финалите на 2009 watchable. Както мнозина от вас знаят, никой не се е върнал от дупка с 3:0, и с тази възможност на въпроса, и гарантирано игра пет, тази серия не трябва да се запазване целостта на хората ... дори и ако Леброн Джеймс не участва. Ако Орландо може да получите игра четири, както и, в тази серия ще се превърне в най-доброто от три. И въпреки че магията са показали, те могат да се обединят по пътищата в плейофите, аз наистина не в полза на 2-3-2 формат на финалите на НБА (отбор с най-добрия рекорд играе първите две и последните два мача у дома).

Бих сравните 2-3-2 финалите формат, че една и съща същност на предимство на отбора печели на извънреден труд хвърля монета в професионалния футбол. В про футбол извънреден труд, като и двата отбора имат шанс да спечели. Но получаване на топката първо със сигурност помага, като по-висок процент на отбора, които печелят тези монети хвърляте спечели тези игри, отколкото тези, които го изгуби. Още веднъж моите приятели, това важи костюм във финалите на НБА, и дори по-лошо може би.

В историята на финалите на НБА 2-3-2 формат, само два отбора са печелили тези три домакински мача между четирите пътни игри, Детройт Пистънс, когато Лари Браун треньор, а след това на следващата година той е бил на Маями Хийт Дуейн Уейд разтърси. Това трябва да ви кажа нещо. Това е почти нечестно, освен екипа, началото на пътя е очевидно по-добър на своя опонент с по-доброто редовно рекорден сезон. Няма значение, където играят, защото спечели три поредни игри навсякъде в плейофите на НБА не е лесно, и се опитва да изпълни импулс за три поредни игри начало, очевидно не е като историята е показала.

За това, магията ще загуби. Те не крадат един от първите си два мача, така че всичко е свършило. Шест игри, може би седем.

Нъгетс наистина готови да надделява над Лос Анджелис Лейкърс?

Денвър Нъгетс и Лос Анджелис Лейкърс Западната конференция Финали серия е да се каже, най-малко, твърди забавление, в сравнение с последните Западните Финали. Това, което е дори повече, е, че тази серия има голям потенциал, за да отиде в седем мача, за, ако Нъгетс може да спечели финалния мач на дома на на нощ matchup, утре в Денвър. Въпреки това, Нъгетс просто ни дразнят с техните противоречиви завършва до неизбежна убедителна игра на елиминиране от Лос Анджелис Лейкърс или наистина могат да спечелят или да получите по дяволите близо бие Лейкърс?

Във всички честно, тези Нъгетс донякъде ми напомня на тази година на Орландо Меджик. Като има предвид, че магията сякаш за да научите как да се справят с несгодите и значението на играе трудно на всяка минута, във втория кръг серия, когато те играят с Бостън Селтикс, Нъгетс може да се установява, че в тази серия срещу Лейкърс. Аз не мисля, че игри от тази серия и седем на Орландо, когато те победи на Селтикс са били идентични, с цел, но в ред, да.

Нъгетс взривиха игри и три срещу Лос Анджелис, където имаха на управляеми води в последните минути на четвъртото тримесечие. Това едно и също нещо се случи с Орландо в играта с една и пет срещу Бостън. Единствената разлика е, магията, за да спечели един мач, след като даде на 20 + точки преднина. В играта двама от серия Нъгетс, те като че ли да го направим както трябва, те направиха за своите безумия в играта един и вдигна огромен пътна победа. Магията като че ли да направят същото, тъй като те духне Селтикс в игра три у дома. Въпреки това, това са закачки, защото и двата отбора в крайна сметка си серия до дупка 2-3. Също така, в играта две, Орландо е взривен от Бостън след като са били разпенващ Селтикс в една игра за по-голямата част от четири тримесечия. Подобно на този сценарий, Нъгетс духна Лейкърс през четвъртото тримесечие на игра четири, само за да се взривени снощи в играта пет.

Сега, ако се съди от тези подобни акции на възходи и падения, Нъгетс изглежда като те може да се минава през тяхното възникване "да предприеме следващата стъпка". Те просто трябва да играят по-стегната игра в Денвър за игра шест, и вземат във всички ситуации, които са разгледани в тази matchup до този момент в Лос Анджелис за игра седма, и определено те биха могли да преминете към финалите.

Нека не забравяме, един по-прилика, че аз виждам в на Нъгетс и магия, и това е, че са не повече или по-малко едни и същи отбори, натоварени с неопитност талант и още по-голямата част, но определено като законно шансове да станат шампиони.

Какво може да Кливланд Облегни се на този етап?

Кливланд Кавалиърс се намират на задния край на четири плейофите конкурси, в които тримата са се понижили с тел и би могло да бъде на никого игра. Въпреки това, лошата новина е, че магията на Орландо са капитализирани на две от тези ситуации; игра на Rashard Люис три с по десет секунди до края, и най-наскоро в игра четири в извънреден разстояние Леброн Джеймс пропусна дълго три. Пещери, които са фаворити за много, за да спечели тази серия, и може би така наречените "Милички", на лигата, сега трябва да стане свиреп. Ако не друго, има един факт, че те могат да се опре на гориво на един от идеята, те могат да вярват.

Факт:

Кливланд тази година беше 39-2 по време на редовния сезон, една загуба за Лейкърс, които те не трябва да се притеснявате за все още, освен ако те не стигнем до финала, а другият на Филаделфия 76 в крайното домакинския мач на Кливланд, където те се държаха Леброн Джеймс и Мо Уилямс.

Понятието:

Въпреки че те вече загуби един домакински мач в пощенската сезон (и не по-малко до Орландо в играта един от тази серия), те все още може да се каже, "Всичко, което трябва да направим, е да спечели един мач по пътя към тази серия."

Заключение:

Това е съвсем проста, но също е много реалистично манталитет да запазите, и с това се каза, ако Кливланд победи игра пет в Кливланд, а след това Орландо не успее да го затворите във Флорида, и след това моите приятели, аз не мисля, че ще твърде много хора, бране срещу Кавалиърс в игра седем в Р.

RAW Отговорът на Пепси Център за резервация на конфликти

Както всички вие трябва да знаете, имаше неотдавнашния конфликт график между WWE и Денвър Нъгетс. 25то издание на Monday Night RAW май трябваше да се проведе в Денвър Нъгетс Пепси Център, докато Денвър Нъгетс успя да го направи на западните финалите на конференция в НБА. Тук са моите мисли за отговор на WWE.

Първата част от отговора е в отвора, когато Винс Макмеън стъпи на ринга с друг господин, облечен като Нъгетс собственик Стан Крьонке. Това включена на Макмеън отдаване под наем някои пара във формата на някои живо време въздух, където той направи забавно на средата име Крьонке,, Енос, и той римуван с думи като "Венера" ​​и "Genius." Той разбира се изплъзва от очевидно "пенис", но забравяйте да се позоваване на него с други думи. Той също така разкритикува на Денвър Нъгетс персонал (вероятно за това, че не се налага на топки, за да увеличат до Крьонке и му каже: "Ти си грешен).

И накрая, Макмеън каза нещо за НБА или Нъгетс "бутане" на WWE и неговите фенове и Макмеън заяви: "Ние тласък назад!" И презираш, по дяволите, от които ще бъде Стан Крьонке "Енос". Аз трябва да кажа, че натискане е гръмотевичен и мисля, че Макмеън наистина исках да на Крьонке знам какво ще се случи, ако двамата не са били разделени от професионалната фина линия и ограниченията на потенциалните санкции непозволено увреждане право.

Накрая, основното събитие включва пет суперзвезди в Лейкърс потници, Джон Сина, Батиста, MVP, Jerry "The King" Lawler и изненада завръщането на суперзвездата Кен Кенеди срещу петима мъже в Нъгетс потници (всички лоши момчета) Ренди Ортън, Тед Dibiase Jr. , Коди Родос, Миз, и Big Show. Това е не повече от стандартната мач Tag Team, този понеделник Night Raw обича да имат на пръв поглед всяка седмица, но със звездите носенето на НБА потници.

Така че, всичко във всичко, първата част беше прилична, докато вторият е лишен от всякакво удар.

Орландо върлина разстояние първата половина голям тласък Кливланд - Готови ли сте да се създаде един от собствените си

WWE Monday Night RAW & Пепси Център Madness

Защо Орландо Меджик може да победи на Кливлънд Кавалиърс

Орландо Меджик направи това, което много хора си мислеха, че, макар и не толкова бързо, тъй като някои хора мислеха, и това беше спре вредата надупчена Бостън Селтикс от всички шансове, те трябваше да повтарям, като шампиони. Тя може да изглежда за някои, като че магията не са готови да издържат тест, който е ефективен баскетбол играят Кливланд Кавалиърс, които са водени от тази година, супер готино Леброн Джеймс. Въпреки това, бедствие, те се сблъскват в серия Бостън Селтикс (най-вече мача, четири и пет) им е помогнало да зрели в екип, че определено може да победи Кавалиърс и може би дори в убедителен мода.

Ами Кавалиърс, изглежда, като те трябва просто да тече през Орландо Меджик с лекота? Това, че те са ефективни, всеки играч знае мястото си, и всички те се хранят на доверие на Леброн Джеймс? Понякога, това просто не е достатъчно, когато не може да се сравнява добре с противника си. И аз говоря на чисто ясен и прост физически matchups.

Нека започнем с най-очевидното ... 6 крак 11 инча Дуайт Хауърд. Има три възможности да го гвардия; на Андерсън Verajao Бен Уолъс, и Zydrunas Илгаускас. Първо, Verajao е 6 фута 11, така че не е лошо. Андерсън е много упорит и да играе с много енергия, но той не разполага с резултата, нито скоростта или власт наистина да компенсира Дуайт Хауърд. Бен Уолъс е 6 фута 9 и е бивш четирикратен дефанзивен играч на годината. Но когато фактор в отклонение на 35-годишна възраст, тя може да бъде твърде много да се иска от него да се запази Хауърд в залива. И накрая, 7 крак 3-инчов Илгаускас височината предимство, но той не е известно за неговата защита, нито пък той има сили за тяло за предотвратяване на Хауърд от линията за някои наказателни удара, а с "хак-а-Дуайт "Не винаги е безопасен вариант, това би могло да създаде проблеми.

След Дуайт Хауърд, Verajao ще имат да изглежда след Rashard Люис и Хедо Turkoglu. Това са два силни и високи нападатели, които също така да надвишава Verajao в своята сила и скорост, както и най-очевидно е, точкуване. Verajao може в най-добрия случай, производството на един, може би две нощи, където могат да се сравняват един от тези мъже, скоринг мъдър, но едно от двете и само един или два пъти не е добро.

Но това не е всичко, което Verajao ще трябва да се притесняваш. Магията все още има две по-едри мъже да вкара заплахи, че ще бъде на пейката в Микаел Пиетрус и Тони Battie, и това не говори добре за пещерите, дори ако те са първите два в лигата в защита.

Raefer Алстън и Антъни Джонсън заедно могат лесно да се компенсира Мо Уилямс, който е повече от шарено голмайстор, и архивиране Уилямс ", Делонте Уест, който също се нуждае от пространство за гол, или ясно платно до дупка. Като има предвид, че той може да получи няколко ленти, той ще има Дуайт Хауърд под коша.

Това трябва да бъде не е лесна задача за двата отбора, но каква магия предимство е, че те не трябва да променят играта си план или ротации твърде много, за да се справят с размери на Кливланд. Кливланд най-вероятно ще трябва да. Така че в това отношение, това трябва да бъде повече от стратегическо предизвикателство за Кавалиърс, отколкото тя ще бъде за Орландо Меджик.

Магически негодници

Магията на Орландо са отбор, който току-що е откровено придобили под кожата ми. Той има почти нищо общо с неуравновесена становище. Този литературен въжето, че е на път да последва, е получен от тяхната липса на усилия, но най-вече тяхната некомпетентност.

Много хора вероятно, че магията ще победи на Селтикс, доста handily без Кевин Гарнет, със сериите не повече от шест игри, особено след като те са били 3-1 срещу Кливланд, 3-1 срещу Бостън, и 2-0 срещу Лейкърс в редовния сезон. Знаеш ли защо те имали такива велики записи срещу тези екипи в редовния сезон, но не изглежда като това в пост сезон (подобно на начина, по който те нека Филаделфия 76-ърс започне да преднина от 2-1 в първия кръг серия)? Тъй като те продължават да играят като отбор, който изглеждаше толкова добър в редовния сезон, за разлика от вида на екипа, който го необходимо, за да получите чрез плейофите ... една със сърце и кураж, и че иска да живее до Hype, а отколкото очакват.

Пример за това е Дуайт Хауърд. Колко пъти той пропусна неговите кратки куки в тази серия? Повече от някой, който се счита в някои кръгове "следващата Шак." Той има един израз и шофиране в играта за плейофите, както го прави в редовните игри на сезон, и аз не бих се изненадал, ако той никога не е работил върху които биха могли да- затворени и се очите кука изстрел на неговата. А кой е да се каже, че той трябва да се опитат да живеят до Шак, но той понякога изглежда да има наследник, както ако всички Hype е вярно и това е, че .... няма нужда да работи по него или да го докаже.

След това трябва хора като на Хедо Turkoglu и Микаел Пиетрус, като всички те могат да направят, е да стреля три указатели. Те трябва да играят по-умен от това. Те са три семена в Източната конференция и спорта четвъртата най-добри показатели в цялата лига, не, три преси за балиране 29-53 Голдън Стейт Уориърс. Turkoglu и Пиетрус трябва, да се доверят на игра вътре в повече и се опита да принуди фаула на отбраната на вътрешните работи, че Бостън. Те нямат никакво извинение. Както те казват ... "Вие живеете от трите и да умреш от трите."

В игра четири, те са намалели с 10 или с шест минути преди края, и имаше само малко общо над 80 точки и се нуждае от помощта на шест плюс минути точкуване Селтик, суша, за да наваксат за една точка доведе те духна в скачач "Дейвис". След това в игра пет, когато те като че ли да го направим, тъй като те имали десетина точки преднина на Бостън с около четири минути, за да отида, те взривиха, че и загуби от три! Вие знаете какво мирише? Чист, ясен, и просто некомпетентност.

Докато те се променят, ще бъде застъпник на това, което каза Чарлз Баркли преди няколко нощи ... "Ако те не може да победи на Селтикс Кевин без гранат, тогава как в света те очакват да ги победим с него?" Това не е жалко да кажа следното, защото те само я върху себе си ... Магията на втория тур версия на тези заредени екипи, които никога не може да се получат от първия кръг. Освен в този случай те просто не могат да получат на второто "- Алекс V

Да дава или да не даде? ... Фал

В събота май Девето, Кармело Антъни най-вероятно всички, но постави на Далас Маверикс си крак, извън баланс три точки изстрел с изтекъл срок. Не само че е труден кошница, но това е тежка загуба за Маверикс, които изглеждаха да набира скорост и captalize най-накрая направи много усилия в четвъртото qarter тази серия, където в prveious два мача са gettting смачкани. За да добавите към сърцето почивка, истинската тъга идва от фаул, за да се даде, че съдийството на екипажа не се обадите и че дори накараха НБА да се извини за това. От този спор, има едно нещо, което можем да научим и нещо, което може да размишлявам.

Какво можем да научим, е, че един играч не трябва да завърши фал, докато не чува, че свирка. Когато играч на Далас опипвана Антъни, той има го твърд, чист, и добро, но съдията не го видя (може би). Антъни не чуе whislte, и той играе чрез posession, имам си изстрел, и го удари. Следващия път, не спират пресата до чуете на refs,.

Какво можем да размишляваме, е как две поредни сезона, че съдийството екипаж, водена от Марк Wunderlich е имал друга спорна инстанция в края на плейофите игра, която щеше да направи серия конкурентна.

Миналия сезон в Западните Финали конференция между ЛА Лейкърс и Сан Антонио Спърс, в Сан Антонио, Брент Бари се опита с три, които биха могли да са потенциално вързани серия в 2-2. Въпреки това, refs не успяха да се обади на очевидно fould от Дерек Фишър, които лигата отново се извини за, и щеше да изпрати Бари на линията за три наказателни удара. Спърс слязоха 3-1, и загуби следващия си напред игра елиминирането.

Може би случайно, а може би е така. Но това е един лош нулата (т.е. Тим Donaghy) ще ви направя, за да създаде още повече спекулациите.

Игра 1 Път Победи Огромни - който е на ръба? Орландо и Хюстън?

Снощи ни се представи с един чифт от тези за игра на TNT, че почти слезе на тел, но най-важното, пътните екипи печеливши. Първата игра включва три в схемата магия и две в схемата Селтикс в Бостън с Орландо все W. Втората игра е пет семки Хюстън Рокетс в схемата Лейкърс в Лос Анджелис. с пътя екип дърпа изключително разстройващо победа. Това е чудесна позиция за всеки отбор да бъде в това, и особено значителен аутсайдера като Хюстън Рокетс. С това се каза, който има най-голямото предимство?

Едно от предимствата на двата отбора, спечелени с победите си е у дома съд. Освен, че има и други умствени фактори, които могат да предоставят предимства, както и някои недостатъци.

Магията на Орландо изглеждаше стабилна и ефективна, тъй като те са работили на пътя им, изграждане на огромна преднина, която в един момент е по-висока от 28 точки по средата на третото тримесечие. Четирите големи реализатори на Дуайт Хауърд, Raefer Алстън, Хедо Turkoglu, и Rashard Люис е публикувал 10 + точки и те също получи тласък от Микаел Пиетрус, който го увеличи добавяне на 10 + точки на собствените си. Всичко на всичко, то определено изглеждаше като умората от седем игра в Бостън, множествена извънреден труд серия с Чикаго започва да се покаже.

Това беше, докато те започнаха напън, което видях ги outscore Меджик 54-41 през втората половина, и дори затваряне на разликата до четири точки, когато имаше по-малко от две минути, останали в играта. Сега това е едно нещо, което трябва да спечели на пътя и да потеглям игра една победа. Но когато не можете да запазите на скоби надолу след изграждането на една 28 точка олово през третото тримесечие спрямо едно екип, които е трябвало да бъде уморен и се играе без Кевин Гарнет и Леон Поу, че трябва да направим още една добра за тях психиката на Селтикс, отколкото прави за магията.

Що се отнася до ракетите, те са успели да остане в тяхната игра на целия конкурс срещу Лейкърс. Дори когато LA преобразува девет точки дефицит през второто полувреме в една точка един водещ, никога не Хюстън waivered и остана с играта си план, се върна за провеждането на върху комфортни води, от пет до девет точки. Голяма част от това, че трябваше да направя с внимателни и без грешка топката обработка на плеймейкър Арън Брукс.

На върха на тази, те са получили En емоционален лифт, когато Яо Минг беше ранен, след като дясното коляно на Кобе Брайънт се удари в собствената си дясното коляно. Яо е в полза на коляното, много силно и дори тръгна в съда, преди да пледира с екипа си треньор, че той беше добре и може да се върне. Всичко, което той направи в завръщането си е бил ударен голям скачач и да потъне шест наказателни удара, за да запази LA в залива в последните моменти на играта. Сега, ако това не е добре за доверието на една пета в схемата на екипа, се сблъскват със задачата за сваляне обезсърчително LA Lakers тогава аз не знам какво е.

Поради Рокетс последователна игра в победата си, в съчетание с определянето на Яо Минг, аз ще ги дам на ръба на предимство края над Орландо. Що се отнася до магията, е страхотно, че те спечелиха по пътя, но те са основно виси на косъм, тъй като играта е, който изтича, а може би и те все още да се изправят пред напълно буден и ентусиазирано Селтикс екип.

3-1 дефицити са трудно да се преодолее - Но Трейл Блейзърс имат достатъчно на мотивация

В историята на плейофите на НБА, само осем отбора, които някога се върна от 3-1 дефицит. Имало е много пъти, когато екипът, изправени пред елиминиране принуди шестици на играта и дори игри седморка, но тя е само, че е трудно да победиш отбор три поредни пъти. Портлънд Трейл Блейзърс са изправени пред същата дилема и вече са затворени дефицит до 3-2. Но какъв вид на мотивация, този отбор трябва да спечели серията ... това е съвсем проста

Трейл Блейзърс изглежда да е отбор, който страда от плейофите willies. Те са млади. Въпреки това, те трябва да преминат, че младежка неопитност в младежкия ентусиазъм, за да се опита да победи Хюстън тази вечер в Хюстън с продължителен мисъл в гърба на техните умове, че ако те могат да го потеглям, те се връщат в Портланд за игра седем. Те трябва да използвате това, за да се помни, че натискът е в Хюстън, тъй като те определено искам никоя част от игра седем на пътя.

Определено мисля, че Блейзърс може да вземе победата, тъй като те са един от най-горещите отбори да навлизам в плейофите, а в последната седмица на редовния сезон победи Денвър и Лос Анджелис, които са на първите две семена на запад. Така че не се изненадвайте, ако Портланд става деветият отбор в историята на НБА, за да спечелят серията, след като са установени 3-1.

Тотнъм повалените от Mavs в пет мача - изглежда като будала

Last night on TNT the Dallas Mavericks swiftly dispersed of the Spurs as big scorers Jason Terry (19pts), Josh Howard (17pts), and of course Dirk Nowitzki (31pts) lit up the court with constant hope-crushing basket after basket. It was these same types of performances that powered the Mavericks to win all four games by an average of 12.75 points. And although the Mavericks feat is certainly props-worthy, this upset has as much to say about them as it does the Spurs.

If anyone said that before game one the Mavericks would beat the Spurs in five games you'd tell them they better not put any money on it. It is not as if it would have been a stretch to pick the Mavs to win the series, but in five games and with the purely superior display that they did it with, that is what makes this series an upset of almost monumental proportion.

The Spurs are not used to losing big, much less that many times to the same team and especially to an opponent that they have a history with. Yes, it is true they had no Manu Ginobli, but for them to lose by 12.75 points per game when they were the favorite is alarming. Next season they're going to have to hope Ginobli is 100% and they may need to think about replacing the vets like Kurt Thomas, Bruce Bowen, and Michael Finley.

As for the Mavericks, more power to you!

НБА Playoof Outlook

The NBA playoffs are starting to heat up as teams begin to play their game threes and fours. Like many experts like to say, the playoffs don't really start until a series is tied 2-2, or nobody has control until they're up 3-0. So, this is the time when those viewpoints truly come into focus.

For instance, The Utah Jazz barely won game three and were laid to waste in games one and two. The sad thing for them was they didn't fair too well in game four in Utah either, and got beat. They are down 3-1 and should be done.

Over in the east, the Cavaliers swept the Detroit Pistons and get to wait it out a few days before they'll see anymore action.

Back west again, the New Orleans Hornets kind of looked like the Jazz in their game three as they had to scrap just to get a win and bring the series to 2-1 and make things interesting. Now, if they can win their game four, they'll completely change the landscape of the series as Denver had dominated them in games one and two, by evening things out at 2-2.

The two and sevens in the east are an enigma to me. Both teams have won a road game and lost a home game. The most interesting factor to me is that Chicago can only beat Boston in overtime!

Another big whopper of a surprise is the battle between the Mavericks and Spurs. The Mavericks have jumped out to a 3-1 series lead and in all three of those wins they have looked fairly dominant with their defense and confidence moving the ball.

Even the three seeded Orlando Magic have run into their share of trouble by falling to a 2-1 deficit against the sixth seeded Philadelphia 76ers before finally tying things up 2-2 last night in Philly.

Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets have really taken charge in their matchup versus the Portland Trail Blazers where they currently lead 3-1. The Blazers have only been dominated in one of those games, game one. However, since overcoming those young playoff willies they have performed very tough and although they are down 3-1 they certainly are not competing like a team who is down 3-1 in a series.

As for the Heat and Hawks, game one made things look like the Hawks might be getting ready for the second round soon. However, since being blown out in game one, Miami has won a dominating game two, and succeeded in a blowout game three in Miami. Now the tables have turned and the Hawks have to prove they were worthy of hosting the series by winning game four.

Basically, if a series gets tied up at 2-2… watch it. If a higher seed is down 3-1… watch it. The higher seeds do not tend to go away too easily. Anything else is either over or about to be.

НБА плейофите: Лос Анджелис Лейкърс срещу Юта Джаз

The settling of the up and down western conference standings has finally come. The matchups are set, and the playoffs begin this Saturday April 18th. The first bout features the number one seeded Lakers going against the number eight seeded Utah Jazz. Time to discuss.

The Utah Jazz have all season long been noted as a team who can be dangerous come playoff time, and especially for the Lakers since they were able to take their series last season to six games. But that was back earlier this year when the Jazz were in contention for a playoff seed as high as number two. Now the only recognition they are getting is that they can pose problems for the Lakers. Too bad they won't pose enough problems four times.

The Jazz are led by one of the league's top point guards in Deron Williams with his 19.4ppg and 10.7apg. They are also spurred by the much improved play of Ronnie Brewer, Paul Millsap, and even CJ Miles. If you throw in the scrappy play by international stars Mehmet Okur and Andrei Kirilenko, as well as the three point baller in Kyle Korver, you most certainly have a solid unit. However, the Jazz's bad side is not too promising.

Guys like Okur, Kirilenko, Brewer, etc do not have the ability to take over a game and can barely create their own shots. When you throw in the fact that the one other guy on the team who could have done that besides Williams, Carlos Boozer, has struggled to get back into the swing of things since his recent return from injury, then the Jazz are nothing more than a team that may be running on fumes by games four and five of the series.

The Lakers on the other hand, now there's a squad! No one on the Jazz (and much less the entire NBA) is the equivalent or on par with Kobe Bryant. No one on the Jazz is as consistent and solid as Pau Gasol, and the one guy who was close, Boozer, is still catching up. Another thing LA has going for them is that there big man who recently returned from injury, Andrew Bynum, has actually transitioned a lot smoother than Boozer.

But the most telling characteristic about each team is this; the roles of the Utah Jazz players are mostly defined by what Deron Williams can do each night on the court whereas for the Lakers… everybody on the team knows their role.

I believe that the high dependence for success resting on the shoulders of one player in Utah (Williams) against the unit on a mission to absolve last season's failures in LA will undoubtedly prevail in five games. See ya Jazzies.

NBA Playoffs: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Detroit Pistons

Everyone should know by now that the road to the NBA Finals in the eastern conference is going through Cleveland, as long as they win in the first two rounds. With that being said, the first team that gets the chance to test Cleveland's 39-2 home record mettle are the veteran Detroit Pistons.

If there was ever a first round matchup featuring two teams you could believe would be playing in a conference final rather than as soon as the first round, this is it. The Detroit Pistons have been reeling all season and have a losing record and no Allen Iverson. That's not so bad though since they play better without him.

They still have their veteran core in Richard Hamilton, Rasheed Wallace, Tayshaun Prince, and even Antonio McDyess. They also still have the same man-play approach to defense that allows for little scoring and emphasis on forcing opponents to play inside and make free throws.

On top of all this favorable detail, they also have a lot of experience matching up against Cleveland… too bad they don't have enough beating them though.

In the last few years, the Lebron James versus “Bad Boys 2” saga has gotten progressively more favorable for Cleveland. The first time they ever met, the Cavaliers had lost the first two games in Detroit. When Cleveland won game three, then prompting Rasheed Wallace to say “We 'gon bust dey ass in game four,” the Cavs turned things around and won the next two forcing a decisive game seven which the Piston manned up and won.

In all honesty, the Detroit Pistons, ever since losing to San Antonio in the NBA Finals, have been the kings of disappointments. The next season when they Pistons faced off, they ended up losing a back-breaking game 5 to Cleveland when Lebron scored his teams' final 27 points, again, in Detroit. That time, the Cavs took advantage and won game six to get into the finals.

What is the difference between this Pistons team and those two? No Chauncey Billups and no in his prime Ben Wallace. So, in all honestly what's to say that the Pistons, all though very savvy, are ready to beat the Cavaliers four times? Нищо.

The Cavs should win this series, even if it goes to seven games.

The New York Knicks better drop the right guys!

After watching the New York Knicks play this year, it is sad to realize that they haven't really accomplished anything! This year they won 30 games, which is not really an improvement from what we had saw with Isiah Thomas, whose best season was 39-43. Isiah's team, therefore had 9 games ahead what Mike D'Antoni accomplished this season. The Knicks record this year in fact ranks 6th worst season of all time based on overall wins. If there was anything positive to take from this season it was we have Donnie Walsh. Walsh has made great moves over this season, setting the Knicks up for the future. Understanding that, I trust he will make the right decision on which one of his young stars he will need to keep going into next year.

The large debate up until this point has been who he should sign, David Lee or Nate Robinson? This to me sounds pretty silly considering that David Lee lead the league in Double Doubles this year posting 62, which was one above Dwight Howard. If you look at Lee's numbers he is a power house averaging 16 points and 11 rebounds a game. David has always been a consistent star for the Knicks, putting out great performance after great performance. David Lee at the age of 25 and a height of 6′9 still has a lot of great Basketball left in him.

Nate Robinson on the other hand, has had a very up and down career. This year Nate only started 11 games for the New York Knicks, most likely because of his size. They say it's amazing to watch Nate play, being tha that he is only 5′8. I say that is just dumb. I don't need any circus freaks on my team. I'd rather just win. So what, the guy can dunk, defensively he is a liability. Do you really think Nate can keep up his game considering it is completely predicated on his jumping ability when he hits 28 years old? He doesn't even start and until this year he was not even a great scorer, as shown by his career average of 12 points per game. Nate also has had problems with his own demons. Everyone knows that he has a very short fuse and is far to emotional for his own good. Just look at the all the instances where Nate flew off the handle. There was the Nugget fight, the Kyle Korver incident and let us not forget the Chris Paul fight as well. Nate needs to grow up literally and figuratively. There are way to many issues with him talking back to officials and he gets way to many technical fouls. It funny to think that some people think he is a great PG. They are just delusional. He only averages around 4 assists per game purely because he thinks of himself as a SG more than a PG. If he really was a Point Guard averaging 2 assists per game over his career would just be pathetic. Nate is giving out the most that he can currently and honestly it really isn't enough for me. I say New York move on, let this dunking midget go!

Hey Walsh, make the right choice, don't just keep Nate because he's exciting, lets try to get to the playoffs next year, so get him out of here and keep your Stud Forward David Lee. It's just that simple!

Allen Iverson will not be resigned by Pistons, so he will take his celebrity and endorsements into free agency next year!

In a strange turn of events the Pistons had decided to trade Chauncy Billups for Allen Iverson during this NBA season. This trade to many seemed silly considering they traded their superstar Point Guard for a hot shot offensive scoring SG, while they still had Richard Hamilton on the team. Others, however thought that they may have been setting themselves up for the free agency class of 2010 and today It seems that was the case. After the recent comments by coach Michael Curry it become evident that the Pistons have no interest in Iverson past this season. Curry said, “It just didn't work; it didn't blend well… There was a lot to do with guys changing roles and accepting different roles you have to play. It's unfortunate things didn't go as we thought they would. ” Curry then told the media that Iverson will sit the remainder of the season. Michael Curry on Saturday night , during his pre-game conference in Philly said, “Hopefully, the time off will get his body back to top condition and be prepared for free agency,” So no matter what the pistons are going to move on, leaving Allen Iverson and his Reebok Sponsorship to the open market!

The State of Detroit

The Pistons have been on a downhill slide ever since Allen Iverson got injured two months or so ago. Without Iverson they have gone 9-18 and dropped down to a below .500 record, which is something they haven't been this late in the season for over five years. On top of being Iversonless, they've had stretches without Rasheed Wallace, and even Richard Hamilton. Even right now starting point guard Rodney Stuckey is out for some time!

Right now, they are 36-39 and a looking at a seventh seed in the eastern conference playoffs. And with about seven games to go they better watch out, because they are only half a game ahead of the eighth seeded Chicago Bulls, and just two and a half in front of the ninth seeded Charlotte Bobcats. So they are in danger of not even making the playoffs if they really don't get off their schneid.

On top of that, even if they do get in, things aren't looking up. They will face Cleveland or the Celtics as a seven or eight seed right now, and with the Pistons not having home court advantage in any round, that does not bode well.

Is there any Test in the West this Year for the Lakers?

The Los Angeles Lakers seem to be miles ahead of their other western conference counterparts. They are currently 9.5 games ahead of the second place Denver Nuggets. That's pretty good distance even for a season like this, wouldn't you say? I would say, sir. On top of virtually securing home field advantage until they get to the finals (Cleveland currently owns the league's best record), they've also got some favorable potential opponents.

The eighth seeded Dallas Mavericks are clearly not at the top of anyone's playoff brackets. Number six New Orleans has not found as much success as last year, and has been injury riddled, and has also suffered from the loss of Janeiro Pargo from last year. Number five, Portland, is pretty spunky, but they're still young. The number four Houston Rockets look promising, but they suffer from a lack of scoring, although they are great at defense.

I'd say the 'scariest' teams for the Lakers are the number seven Jazz, who took them to six games in last year's second round of the western conference playoffs. They are one year older and their other players are almost doubling their career ppg from last season. Then of course, at number three, are the experienced San Antonio Spurs. They know the Lakers well and have always been master executers in crunch time. Finally, the number two Denver Nuggets. They're gaining a lot of confidence behind their calm new leader, Chauncey Billups, and players are getting their work done in a much more efficient basketball manner.

But the Lakers have Kobe Bryant surrounded by immense talent, and will not fail to make it to at least the NBA Finals this season.

Zach Randolph feels the fuel crisis, and sells his car on ebay

Zach Randolph is selling his 2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV. I assume since he has moved to LA he really doesn't need this car. This car is hot! It has the entire ESV package. Which includes the HEATED STEERING WHEEL! This car has it all, even expiring contracts! Get in the game like Zach with your Mesh Grill and Custom Suede Interior that would even make Shaq blush. I tell you what check out the car right here Call Nick and tell him Sportsroids.com sent you!

Player Watch: LaMarcus Aldridge

Earlier this NBA season SportsRoids talked about the success of LaMarcus Aldridge of the Portland Trail Blazers and how he looked to be growing into a potential all-star player. Now we want to revisit that topic to state we stand by our previous testimony.

Aldridge's points average per game is at a career high 18.1 and his rebounds are at 7.4 which is only .2 less than last year. And what's funny to say is that for a six foot eleven inch tall guy he has started to polish up his inside game.

In the first stages of his playing time he has been more of a jump shooter on the offensive end. But now he is combing that with more lay-ups, big dunks, and some short hooks.

Now look out, because Greg Oden seemed to have hit his offensive stride against the Philadelphia 76ers Monday night. Just keep imagining the potential that these two have as a big man tandem and it just may culminate in this year's playoffs.

The New York Knicks will not make the playoffs because no one can teach them how to get out of thier own way!

Honestly after the Knicks lost to the LA Clippers tonight I realized how bad they have become. They promise the fans PLAYOFFS and Al Harrington is making the same mistakes he did when they lost to LA last time. The Knicks had the game in hand until he showboated and received a “T”. Then to listen to his excuses after post game was just pathetic! I love Al Harrington's hustle but he is becoming the new Jeremy Shockey in New York. Hey Al just stay a little more in control, otherwise I love your heart man you are definitely someone I hope to see in the Knicks future! I am interested to see if the knicks can get a win over the last 11 games in the season. Mike D get control of your team. Otherwise, I would like to be the first New Yorker to say Orevua playoffs!

Are the Boston Celtics Really Going to be a Three Seed?

As the season winds down and everyone has ten or so games left, many teams are inching their way each night jockeying for playoff positioning. In the West you have just about every team up from the two seed and all the way down to the eight seed at no more than three games apart. However, one intriguing race to the playoffs has to be between the currently three seeded Orlando Magic, and second seeded Boston Celtics. I wonder… Is the most looming question whether the Orlando Magic can grab the two seed in the Eastern Conference, or is it are the Boston Celtics really going to be a three seed?

The Celtics had been on a roll all season long, and were as comfortably ahead in the Eastern Conference standings that they were rivaling the Lakers current 9.5 games lead in the Western Conference standings. Now the defending champs have had to deal with injuries to stars like Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, and even to their key players and role players like Rajon Rondo and Tony Allen. If the Celtics, who are only a game ahead of the Magic, get bumped down to a three seed in the playoffs then that means they'll have a chance to play Orlando and Cleveland on the road. That's no easy task.

It is all just so intriguing because if anyone should seem better equipped to win on the road it's the Boston Celtics. They are tied for the third best road record in the league at 25-12, but then again, they allowed their first two playoff rounds of last season go seven games. How did they do that you ask? By losing their first six road games.

Either way, it could be the champs looking like super-cool vets and pulling it off as a three seed, or it'll look a little shocking if they aren't in even their own conference finals.

Shaq has won the first Sportsroids.com's GATBMS Award! (athlete turned bad movie star Award)

After watching Kazaam, I felt that I really had to make some kind of post on his performance. He was once the greatest Center in the NBA, and then he decided to take on more. Shaq is one of the best Athletes of the last 30 years without a doubt. One thing, however, he isn't is a good actor. Kazaam was an awful movie and I really wish I could get that couple of hours of my life back! Honestly, I would rather have my teeth pulled by Muhammad Ali than watch that film again! SHAQ STOP ACTING, RAPPING and start practicing your Free Throws!!

Houston Rockets Itchin' for Second Place!!!

The Houston Rockets have shown considerable improvement since they lost Tracy McGrady for the rest of the season earlier this year due to injury. They have found stability and solid defense and also a decent ability to win on the road where they are 17-17. Last week they even suffered a stretch without Yao Ming when they beat New Orleans in Louisiana, and they have even removed any doubt, thus far, that trading away Rafer Alston would be a problem. They are rolling over a lot of bumps on the road and are still pressing on, and a two seed in the Western Conference playoffs might not be too far out of reach.

As of right now the Rockets are 44-25, 3rd in the west, and two games behind San Antonio, 2nd in the west, and 45-22. So with roughly twelve games to go, they are definitely on the Spurs' heels. What's even more is they have a chance to get in the drivers seat by the end of this week!

Tonight they meet the struggling Detroit Pistons who have lost two straight and are 1-3 in their last four, and the Rockets get to face them in Houston where they are 27-8. Then this Friday, 3/20/09, the Rockets host the bottom-feeding Minnesota Timberwolves who are 20-47 which is good for 6th worst in the league. As for San Antonio, they don't play until Friday as well, but they face the Boston Celtics. Although the Celtics have been struggling to keep up with Cleveland due to their injuries, it would not be an upset to see them win even in San Antonio.

The real kicker is what culminates if the Rockets were two win their two games and the Spurs lost their game this Friday. The two would then play each other in San Antonio for control of the 2nd seed. If the Rockets win then they would grab hold of the Spurs' spot with ten games or so to go in the season.

The west is close from two to eight, and anything can happen. But I would doubt there were too many people who thought the Houston Rockets could be a two seed.

Clippers beat Nets by Novak's 7th three pointer at buzzer!

Baron Davis passes at the buzzer to Steve Novak for the win. The Nets lose in LA putting themselves 1 game further out of the 8th spot. Steve Novak played big putting up 21 points against New Jersey on March 15. He hit the buzzer beating three on March 16th at 12:09 am. Baron Davis played well as well putting up 20 points 10 assists and 6 rebounds. The LA Clippers now have 16 wins on the season! The Nets are in trouble because they had no business losing to a 15-50 team. In the 3rd quarter of this game Devin Harris left due to injury. He has a strained left shoulder. This loss and the Injury to Devin Harris puts a whole new spin on things on which team is going to get the 8th Spot in the east. This was LA Clippers first win since February.

The Elusive Number Eight Seed… in the East

With about 18 or so games to go for each NBA team, the playoff races begin to tighten. By now, any true NBA enthusiast should know the situation in the Western Conference and how seeds eight through two are neck and neck. They should also know that the Phoenix Suns are in poor shape in the ninth spot being five and a half games behind the currently eighth seeded Dallas Mavericks. However, over in the Eastern Conference the race for eight is on. With Chicago, New Jersey, Charlotte, Indiana, Milwaukee, and New York no more than two games apart from one another, that battle is still very interesting.

The New York Knicks have improved mightily from last season with the run-and-gun style that has been infused by new head coach Mike D'Antoni. However, they have a run-and-gun with a bevy of role player caliber ballers. It's not like they're the superstar-filled Suns of years past that D'Antoni had before. So, although the Knicks are a much improved team, they shouldn't be making the playoffs any way.

The Charlotte Bobcats were already making positive strides prior to the trade that brought them Raja Bell and Leandro Barbosa at mid-season. Now, they have improved further, but they are still highly inexperienced and will require more time and at least one All-Star player to get in.

The Pacers on the other hand have their All-Star caliber player in Danny Granger, but he has been hurt. They too are like the Knicks and tend to run, but once again, too many role player type people on their team. That's no good.

New Jersey's got All-Star Devin Harris, and former superstar, but more than capable Vince Carter. But they have too many woes at home and they can't be expected to make a run just because they are decent on the road. Decent on the road is great, where they have a 14-17 record, but a non-winning 14-19 home record just won't do it.

The Milwaukee Bucks currently hold the eight spot, but they still have one problem… they are Michael Redd-less. They did a great job in the early going of his absence from his season-ending injury, but now his loss has started to catch up and the Bucks are just 3-7 in their last ten games.

With that being said, the eighth seed has to be given to Chicago. They have the leading candidate for rookie of the year in Derek Rose, and a great scoring pickup up at mid-season in John Salmons who is averaging 18.2 points per game this season. On top of this they have a stable of young guys with playoff experience in Kirk Hinrich, and top-scorer Ben Gordon. Their big men are also efficient; Tyrus Thomas and Luol Deng. Last, but not least, the other guy that game over from Sacramento with John Salmons… veteran and playoff-savvy Brad Miller.

The Bulls, in my mind, are already a team with a bright future, while the others that were mentioned still do not have much to build on except for some true grit. Bulls get in.

Are the Cleveland Cavaliers Ready to Come Out of the East?

Steph stinks up 1st start this season

On Sunday March 8, Stephon Marbury made his debut start for the Boston Celtics, replacing the injured starter PG Rajon Rondo against Orlando. Some people are going to claim that Steph is just rusty, but I really think this is the beginning of the end for Starbury. After refusing to play for more than half a season, Marbury is no longer mentally in the game. It was pathetic experience watching the once omnipresent Point Guard struggle to try to find his once omnipotent court vision once again. Thanks Clyde! Marbury started for the Celtics and ended the game with NO ASSISTS and 4 points in 20+ minutes on the court. He was replaced by Eddie House for the majority of the game, and to be honest I think Steph has really destroyed his career because now he is not the same player he once was. At this point, Rondo is the more talented PG and Marbury has no business playing with this team, Eddy House is a better PG than him, heck bring back Sam I Am (Sam Cassell) but please don't play Marbury. At this point I can only hope is that Steph does not destroy this squad since they are fun to watch. I don't find it shocking that Assists, are down for the Celtics. You have to admit though, thats it is kind of funny that Boston has once again inherited a New York curse!

The West is Still Better than the East

In this year's fine NBA season the Western Conference is still the powerhouse of the league. It's not like that's ever changed since like the last ten years, but this year is definitely one of most notable.

In the East you have five sub-500 teams fighting for an eighth seed in Milwaukee, New Jersey, Chicago, Indiana, Charlotte in order from best to worst, with the best, Milwaukee, sporting a 29-35 record.

Meanwhile in the wild West the Suns and the Mavericks are shifting between the eighth and ninth spots every few games or so. Currently, the Suns are in ninth and they have a 34-26 record. That's better than the eighth seed in the East, Milwaukee, and also would tie them with Atlanta for the fourth seed and homecourt advantage in the opening round of the playoffs.

It's a little different when you get to the higher seeds though. The two seed in the West, the San Antonio Spurs are 40-19. If they were in the east, that too would be no better than the fourth seed in the East. Orlando, who is 44-16 and third in the east, would be second in the west.

Although not surprising, it's still interesting.

Why Michael? Jackson selling cheap sex doll

So, I thought the NBA's reputation could not get any worse, and then what happens? Yes It is the return of the 360 thriller, Michael Jackson. Mr. Jackson has seemed to come under some financial troubles over the past year and is now auctioning off some of his most prized possessions, including things from Neverland ranch. The one troubling thing is that he has a custom created child figurine that is sporting a Suns jersey on sale. Personally that just seems creepy to me. I will fully admit that Michael was the greatest pop artist in US history but we all know his darker side, and I would like to say shame on the person who decides to buy this sexual voodoo doll for it's predicted 80 to 120 dollar price tag.

Can the Phoenix Suns make the Playoffs?

Currently, the Phoenix Suns are in ninth place in the Western Conference. If the playoffs were to begin today, the recent perennial show-ups, the Phoenix Suns would be no-shows and watching from home (but most likely traveling over seas and playing golf). But either way, they wouldn't make the playoffs.

When the Suns decided to drop Mike D'Antoni after his highly successful run which included two Western Conference Finals, they figured to make the playoffs by default, with the real goal in mind to win a championship. Now they are too busy stuck in a seesaw battle with Utah (8), New Orleans (7), and Dallas (6) to barely get into the playoffs, much less be involved in any championship talk.

Steve Nash seems to be relegating more of the offensive load to his teammates. He used to be more aggressive until this year. Even though Shaq is playing at an All-Star level again, it still doesn't ever seem to be enough for them to get over the contenders or even to consistently win against the other playoff teams. And with recent rumors of exploring ways they could trade away Amare Stoudamire or even The Big Cactus himself, this team is a shade away from being in shambles.

The Suns can still make the playoffs easily. However, fighting for the sixth through eighth seeds means LA, San Antonio, or Denver in the first round. They might just be able to make it in and out quick enough to catch the rest of the playoffs on TV.

Are the Utah Jazz Contenders?

In the past few weeks, the Utah Jazz have the leagues' best hot streak with four straight wins. Two of those wins have come at home where they are 24-6 against the Lakers and the Celtics. Although Garnett did not play the second half, they still held serve and beat two experienced teams and one champion.

With Deron Williams's career highs in points per game with 19.2 and an excellent 10.2 assists per game, it means this guy is averaging a double-double per outing. Carlos Boozer has been out for a while, but the other players have been picking up the slack: Ronnie Brewer with 13.5 points per game, Paul Millsap 14.6ppg, 9.2 rebounds per game, and even CJ Miles with 10.0ppg.

The Jazz are set to welcome back Boozer's 20.5ppg, and 11.7rpg. With that added to the two vets of Mehmet Okur, 18.0ppg, 8.4rpg, and Andrei Kirilenko 12.6ppg, and 5.5rpg and Utah has a seven man rotation that can averaging double-digit points per game. Last season they took LA to six hotly contested games in the second round of the playoffs. What's even better for the Jazz is they pose a lot of matchup problems for opposing teams with their height, size, and strength.

I am not saying the Jazz are in the Finals already, but they could turn some heads and go as far as the Western Conference Finals.

Tony Parker is the luckiest guy on earth: Eva Longoria

Unless you are living under a rock, I am sure you all know that Tony Parker is married to Eva Longoria! To me that makes him the luckiest guy on the face of the earth. We at sportsroids would like to christian this young women as a Sportsroids Hottie as of right now. Here's to you Eva! If you are ever sick of Tony you know who to call!

Here are some great pictures of Eva for all you Roiders to oogle!

Knicks trade for Larry Hughes and Chris Wilcox at trade-deadline

Donnie Walsh is starting to look like a genius, just when New York had wrote this team off they make a splash and pick up two expiring contracts, for the rest of this season. This will not only put them in the running for the Big 2010 free agency mob, it will also give the New York Knicks a chance at this season's postseason. The trade for Larry Hughes consisted of Tim Thomas, Anthony Roberson, Jerome James being sent in a package to the Bulls for the SG. Chris Wilcox was picked up in a straight up deal with Oklahoma City for Malik Rose. The Knicks just got two players that may start for one bench player and four not even in the rotation. Great Work Donnie Walsh!

The New York Knicks just don't know how to finish

I have been quite upset with the Knicks this season. With the hiring of Mike D'Antoni, the Knicks have promised playoffs for the fans this year. The thing is I can't see it happening. The reason it can't happen is simple, you can't win games when you can't finish. Literally the last 5 games the Knicks have played pathetic in the 4th quarter. It's depressing and awful, considering that the talent on this squad seems to have been raised with the acquisition of Al Harrington, Chris Duhan and the promising play of Nate Robinson, David Lee and Wilson Chandler. I really think this team has the potential to be a 4 seed, yet they just seem to be to green. Well time will only tell if they can take that 8 spot and make the playoffs like D'Antoni promised.

Why has the NBA become so unpopular??

A little bit more than a decade ago Basketball was at it's peak of popularity. People questioned how the NBA be so popular and how come football took a backseat to both basketball and baseball. Critics and fans a like said it was because of the fact that football players wore helmets that masked their faces. Others said that people wanted to see a skill sport rather than one that required and rewarded strength over talent.

Today the NBA is a shell of what it used to be. In fact it has been for years. Since Michael Jordan 's third and final retirement a lot of the luster, excitement, and entertainment has left the industry. Some may point out that scoring is higher than ever. Although that may be true, the fact of the matter is that the way that players are scoring points has caused the game to actually slow down dramatically. Ever since the rule of no hand checking along the perimeter has been in place, faster players like Tony Parker and Rajon Rondo have been abusing the painted area. Although guard play was what David Stern was hoping to incorporate into the game, it slowed it down due to several of ticky tack fouls being called.

The result was higher scoring, but it was all done at a stand still pace… at the foul line. Look at Kobe Bryant last night at the Garden for example. He drops 61 points on the New York Knicks, 20 of which came from the free throw stripe (He went 20/20 at the line).

Another reason comes from over this past summer in which we saw referree Tim Donaghy ruined much of the little credibility the NBA had left. Do you remember about 5 years ago the Lakers and Spurs were playing in the Western Conference Semi-Finals. Derek Fisher hit a jumper with 0.3 seconds left on the clock. From my recollection, they deemed it impossible to even tap a ball in without at least 0.4 seconds remaining on the clock. Now I'm not a Spurs fan or a Laker hater but anyone who saw that game can see that the clock started late, and they gave Fisher enough time to do a turn-catch-and-shoot.

Parity, it doesn't exist. Even today with both conferences looking more and more similar record wise. The fact of the matter is that only two or three teams from each conference have a legitimate chance in winning the title. That doesn't seem so bad right? Well these are the same teams every year for about a 2 to 3 year period. San Antonio, Cleveland, Detriot (Not so much this year), and Phoenix (they too have fallen off) prior to last year's finals were doned to be in the Conference Finals at the minimum.

Rewards for individual achievements for a team based game. It is a given that you cannot win 1 on 5. Yet there is the MVP award. This wouldn't be so bad except the MVP voting makes no sense. The Best player on the Best Team? Then why didn't KG win it last year like he should have? Or is it the best overall player, Then why did Dirk Nowitzki win the MVP (I'ma huge Dirk fan)? The voting system makes no sense and the MVPs each year seem to baffle the true fans. Nash should have won when Dirk won. Shaq should have won when Nash won his first MVP. Kidd should have won, when Duncan won his second MVP.

Empathy. The fans don't see themselves in the players. Most of these players are arrogant and selfish and only desire money. For the few times a year we get to play ball with our buddies and friends we play with team work, desire to win, and above all else because we love it. Players these days care only about the dollar in a sport that has lost its ability to create a team first mentality. Look at Gilbert Arenas he signed for $111 million over six years only to not even step on the court once this year. He claimed to be a heroic icon by saving his team millions, while in actuality has crippled them financially and doesn't even play.

Some say there is a race element involved in it as well but I don't believe it. Most football players are black(except at quarterback and on the O-line). Most baseball players are hispanic (at least a majority of the most famous ones). Yet these sports are the two most watched and profitable in the nation. The fact of the matter is that basketball has become slow due to rule changes (hand checking on the perimeter, no-charge zone, zone defenses(No more illegal defense)). People don't like the players (Kobe – accused of rape, Shaq – adultry, Jamal Tinsley & Ron Artest – do I really have to list this?, the Palace at Auburn Hills, over paid players, focus on race (Yao and Yi to reach to Asian Markets)). This league has lost its depth, and more importantly it has lost its passion and its beauty. If you don't believe me then think back to when the Heat played the Nuggets this past year and the hype was that Dick Vitale was going be commenting the game….Not the game itself.

Kobe breaks MSG record of most points scored at MSG

Kobe has already started 2009 with a bang. This week Kobe played the way legends do. Kobe put in 61 points against the New York Knicks in their home arena, breaking Bernard King's long time record of 60 points. The funny thing is when you think about it this point total is 20 points less then his personal best…my lord, Kobe is the #1 player in the NBA…Nuff said!

5 Contenders

At this point there are five title contenders in the NBA; in the west, the Los Angeles Lakers (31-8) and the San Antonio Spurs 26-13, and in the east, the Cleveland Cavaliers (31-7), Orlando Magic (33-8), and Boston Celtics (33-9).

Right now, I would put the Spurs over the Lakers. I know the records are five games different, but lately I've been seeing Kobe take a lot of shots in the fourth quarter in games against Orlando and San Antonio that just haven't been going down. Pau Gasol is having a great season, but now the Spurs have four guys who can be counted on to hit big shots, and not in any particular order; Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, Manu Ginobli, and now Roger Mason Jr.

Furthermore, the Spurs show no signs of getting older, and they even seem like they are playing “younger” than last year.

In the east, the one team with the overall best consistency has been the Cavaliers. The Celtics seem like their big three of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen are getting older (More-so Garnett and Pierce), and their role players have not stepped up much in their recent strings of losses. I would have to say that right now Pierce and Garnett seem to be taking a step back, but I know they can turn that around. However, until that happens, I have to keep them under Orlando and Cleveland, even if they are the defending champs.

The Orlando Magic just seem like they play within themselves every game, and that has been just enough to pull out some big road wins this season. But with their ever-growing regularity of settling on huge three pointers down the stretch to win games may not be so hot come playoff time… “You live by the three, you die by the three.”

Finally, it is the Cleveland Cavaliers who are my top pick in the east. LeBron James seems to be coming into his own, as if what he had been doing already wasn't enough. He is really hitting his peak now, and is relying on his teammates much longer in games than Kobe Bryant.

What's even more is that they (Cleveland) aren't even letting any of the non-contenders come close to beating them at home. If they can hold on to the number one seed come playoff time, and have homecourt advantage in the Finals, I will pick them to win it all.

Eddie Curry racially raped a Man?

Now what do you do when you think someone has wronged you? Oh yeah, accuse him of sexual harassment and racists comments right? Seriously what is this pathetic world coming too. Today Eddy Curry has been accused of just this. Seriously can they leave anyone alone. EDDY CURRY IS GOING THROUGH A HARD TIME RIGHT NOW, LEAVE EDDY CURRY ALONE!!!!…I am just joking around but I know Eddy Curry couldn't do anything to anyone because Eddy is really not a jerk at all. He is just a lazy bum. I mean really, he got robbed blind while he was in his own the house, trust me he is no threat to anyone. But what I find even funnier is that The guy who is accusing him is trying to make this a Jewish vs. Black issue. From the report I have read, it makes no difference if he was Jewish because the offensive comments are just about all white people in general, so why does he feel the need to interject the fact that he is Jewish? On NBA.com they describe the comments by writing,

Kuchinsky also accuses Curry of exposing himself and harassing the former driver and said Curry referred to his Jewish heritage in a derogatory way, calling him a “cracker,” “white slave,” “white devil” and “grandmaster of the KKK”

All I can say is know your racial terms people. These insults make fun of white poeple as a whole, not a specific group. This won't hold up in court, Jesus. But to get back on track, Eddy Curry is most definitely innocent. I can't really see this guy showing his drivers his special parts and verbally accosting them. Eddy Curry has four children, so let me ask you when you think he would have a chance to pull this off? It just doesn't seem realistic, atleast to me. Personally I know that Eddy Curry would be too lazy to even use the energy to expose himself. Dave Kuchinsky is suing him and supposedly he is seeking 5 million dollars. When I heard that I was like WHAT!!?? Seriously, 5 million because you were damaged by a Black superstar showing you his Johnson? Was it really that traumatic for you to need 5 million in compensatory damages. Come on for a million Eddy Curry could cock smack me in my face and call me “whitebread” all day. These poeple who are just searching for money need to stop attacking our athletes and get real. Holla back y'all!

It's Official: Brandon Roy Sets the Tone for the Portland Trail Blazers

Coming into this season, everyone knew that Brandon Roy was one of the rising stars in the league. However, up until his 52 point performance against the Phoenix Suns last night, he may very well be a rising super star.

I think the most widespread feeling across the league is that guys like Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge would make nice compliments to Greg Oden. However, until Greg Oden can begin to score twenty plus points per game, that cannot be said. Brandon Roy at this point is the player that you say “The team goes as far as Brandon Roy goes,” and his main man and sidekick is Aldridge, and not Oden.

Now, with Portland jumping to a 17-6 record which is good for 5th in the western conference, and coming off a recent three-game slump, the huge performance in Portland should propel the team to hit off some three to five game win streaks here and there for the next few weeks.

Go Brandon Roy.

Steve Nash to the Knicks?

I was reading the daily news recently and I stumbled on a article by Frank Isola. The article was basically about the fact that Steve Nash misses his coach and would be willing to come to New York in 2010. Is Bill Parcells coaching the New York Knicks ? Who thinks up this stuff? Do you really think D'antoni thinks, “Lets just move all the stars of my last squad to my new one.” I mean do we just want the Knicks rosters and Sun's rosters just switching jerseys like this? Message to Dolan “These SUNS NEVER WON A TITLE”. Come on D'Antoni bring me new blood, bring me better defenders and whatever you do, just please don't combo up Nash and Amare in 2010. I would be more upset, than the first movie critics to watch Kazaam. In fact if that were to happen we could petition that the team name should be changed to the New York Geriatrics. If I see the Knicks pick up an aging superstar in 2010 who is over 33 I will be furious, There is just to much young talent available in this free agent class. Dirk and Nash should be crossed of the Knicks wish list already!

Duhon, Harrington and Chandler push Knicks above Nets

The highly favored Nets did not pull through on Wednesday night at the IZOD center. Rather they fell victim

to below par New York Knicks team by a score of 121-109. The Knicks trailed early in the game allowing Devin Harris 14 points in the 1st quarter. It seemed like this night was destined to be a failure from the beginning for the Knicks, we have grown accustomed to seeing. Yet, some thing has changed within the New York Knicks, this team now after the departure of Randolph and Crawford and benching of Curry, refuse to quit. I almost hate to say this but Al Harrington plays with such passion while wearing his hometown orange and blue jersey, it's almost inspiring. Al Harrington lead the knicks with 39 pts, 13 Rebounds, 3 Assists. The Knicks never lead in the 1st half and were getting pushed around until Tim Thomas took over in the 3rd putting up 9 points in about 1 minute. This sparked the crowd and Al Harrington to get to work. Chris Duhon had another great double double performance, with 10 pts and 10 assists. Chandler, who also put up big numbers, rebounded from his bad night in Chicago putting up 24 pts, 9 rebounds, 3 assists.

In other news:

Cuttino Mobley is going to announce his retirement from the NBA tommorow. He is retiring due to a heart condition that will prohibit him from playing basketball. This heart complication was caught during his physical conducted during his trade from the Clippers to the knicks this year. This is pretty upsetting story, but atleast he isn't going to sit on the knicks bench and collect a paycheck while he gets fat and doesn't work hard, due to his “injury or condition”. I applaud Cuttino for knowing when to get out. For Mobley I know there will be life after Basketball. Thats more than what I can say for some knicks!

The New York Knicks might not be that bad

I will fully admit that I have been a Marbury supporter throughout the entire fiasco of this season. I believed that the kid from Brooklyn could bring us a championship. I still think he is the New York Knicks most talented guard, yet I am starting to realize that the Knicks aren't even in bad shape, without him. They have all been playing so well this season. Nate Robinson has put his name on the map whenever he wasn't hurt and got minutes. Wilson Chandler has shown huge potential and is on the verge of turning into a superstar wing man. Yet, there are two players that deserve special recognition. These two players that are making this season happen.

The first player I would like to talk about is the cornerstone of the New York organization, Mr. David Lee. Known by some in New York as “Doctor Leebound”. This aggressive young man, plays tenaciously under the boards and does all the dirty work that needs to be done to win games. Unlike Eddy “Fatness” Curry, David is a hard worker and a tough guy which makes up for his lack of size at the center position. David Lee is a breed of player which sadly enough that seems to be dissolving from the league. Nevertheless, I hope he makes the All-star team, because quite frankly he deserves it. The man has averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds per game. Yep David Lee averages a double double. That's pretty tough to shallow isn't it. He actually has just as many double doubles as Tim Duncan right now with 12 on

the year. This year he has looked like a superstar posting up a numbers comparable to none, for example this year he put up 37 points 21 rebounds game against The Warriors. This guy works hard and does what he needs to do to fit the new system and give his team the edge in any game. Therefore, he is All Star in my book.

The second player i wished to talk about is Chris Duhan. Is it me or the Knicks hell bent on picking up all of the Chicago Bulls scraps, and B side players. Literally at one point we had Crawford, Eddie Curry and Chris Duhan. To me that is just funny. Yet I think this time maybe the knicks are in luck. Obviously I hated this kid before he even stepped into the door at MSG, but I have grown to see that he has fulfilled a huge hole in this knicks organization. He has became a team leader. I did not believe this player would have been such a gifted talent considering he was the Bulls 3rd string PG. I was very upset, in fact, when I heard the rumor, The Knicks are going to trash Marbury in order to start Duhan. Which did turnout to be true. I wanted to vomit at the idea of Chris Duhan, being the “The REAL PG of the New York Knicks”. My nausea was not necessary it turns out, because This season he has had moments of greatness. When a player brakes the assist record for The New York Knicks at 22, that is something special. This guy has heart. Just look at the minutes he plays. Some players can give you 35 minutes, but in that 35 minutes you might not get 100% of the player. He may take brakes and loose concentration, this is not Duhan, he has been averaging 40 minutes per game and plays every possession like it was the first or last. He forces turnovers and he feeds open teamates using Mike D'Antoni's system. Honeslty the last couple of games he has started to look like Steve Nash. Right now he is averaging more assists per game than Nash actually. Chris Duhan is the truth and when he is not on the floor the Knicks look like a terrible team. Chris recently lead the Knicks to victory against the Detroit Pistons in a large upset 104-92. He played for 48 minutes in the uptempo system, which must be brutal, yet he pushes on. Chris has been focal point for the media, and they have also attempted to trick him and say controversial statements about Marbury. Chris Duhan is a solid man, and refuses to converse about such things, unlike idiot child Q. If Duhan does not go to All Star game It will be a travesty, for New York Knicks fans world-wide.

NBA First Quarter MVP?

Who is the Man whose momma spells the name “Dwayne” as “Dwyane?” Who is the Man who leads his team to victory by being the league's top scorer at 28.7 points per game, almost a full point over the one they call “King” with 27.8 in Cleveland? Who is the former Marquette Master that let his team sit back and watch as he carried them to four straight victories once upon an NBA Finals ago? Who is this Man you say? D-Wade?

 

Yea… that and Dwyane Wade.

 

For those of you who it isn't too early to be talking MVP yet, Dwyane Wade ought to be your man. He has no Shaq, and at 9-9, has his team just four wins shy of the 13 total they had all of last season. To say he has gotten much help would be a bit of a stretch.

 

Sure, Michael Beasley has been turning in a pretty fine rookie season at 14.7 points per game with a 45% field goal percentage. Other than, they have no big men and their pick up from last season, Shawn Marion has not presented himself as much of a scoring threat with just 12.3 points per game (coupled by a big 9.3 rebounds per contest), but at 6ft 7in, he is shorter than rookie Michael Beasley at 6ft 9in!

 

Thus far, Dwyane Wade has played like a man who wants no part of the shame and deplorable play his city and fans suffered through last season, and definitely does not want to be watching most of the playoffs as opposed to playing in at least part of them.

 

As long as Dwyane Wade can keep carrying his team to victory, especially in the fourth quarter, he has my vote for MVP right now… D-Wade! All the other usual and potential names, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, Steve Nash, Tim Duncan, Brandon Roy, Chris Paul, or Chauncey Billups have an at least decent supporting cast around them.  

NBA Quarter-Mark Outlook

So far in the NBA a few teams are back up to their old tricks, a few have been somewhat disappointing, and a good number of upstarts from last year as well as some surprising newcomers have begun to surface.

 

The newcomers that need to be involved in this discussion are as follows; in the east it's Miami, New York, and New Jersey and in the west all of the other teams with playoff aspirations are of no surprise at this point in the season. Miami, led by top scorer in points per game, Dwyane Wade, are currently 9 ^th in the eastern conference standings. Last year, everyone remembers how atrocious they were. New York seems to be hitting its stride under the tutelage of former Phoenix head coach, Mike D'Antoni as they are 8-8 and 8 ^th in the standings. Finally, the previous season's trade between the Dallas Mavericks and New Jersey Nets has finally begun to payoff, as the Devin Harris led Nets are 8-7, 6-4 in their last ten, and 7 ^th in the east.

 

The Upstarts from last year that are proving their worth are as follows; in the east it's the Orlando Magic, the Atlanta Hawks, while in the west we have Portland and Denver. The Magic currently sit at 3 ^rd and atop the eastern conference standings at 13-4 going 9-1 in their last ten. Dwight Howard, Jameer Nelson, Rashard Lewis, and Hedo Turkoglu and company are really hitting their stride. The continued and improved production of guard/forward Keith Bogans and the extra lift provided by off season veteran pick up Anthony Johnson as point guard have been stalwart.

 

The Hawks slid a bit after starting off 5-0 mainly because of losing Josh Smith for the next few months, but have regained form and are now 10-6 and 5 ^th in the eastern conference.

 

In the west the Portland Trailblazers, continue to look like a team of the future with stars Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge, and the potential of first-year NBA players like Rudy Fernandez, and Greg Oden. They are now tied with Phoenix, Denver, and Houston at 11-6 while going 7-3 in their last ten games.

 

Denver's success can be attributed to the trade of Chauncey Billups for Allen Iverson. The Nuggets are 11-6 and 7-3 in their last ten while holding 3 ^rd place in the west. They have had many impressive victories and performances as they beat Boston in Boston, and took the Lakers to the brink of a loss in LA

 

Now come the disappointments. The Detroit Pistons are hovering somewhere between average and above average. Although they are 10-5 and in 4 ^th place in the east, they are suffering some inexcusable losses, most recently a 10+ point loss to Minnesota, do not yet seem to have their act together with Allen Iverson skipping the thanksgiving day practice (however, I do give huge props to Michael Curry for taking charge by suspending him for one game), and are not nearly as consistent as they were when they had Chauncey Billups in the lineup.  

 

The other eastern disappointments for the eastern conference are the Toronto Raptors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Washington Wizards.

The Raptors just 8-7 and are barely holding a spot in the eastern conference as the 7 ^th seeded team. With capable point guard Jose Calderon, and former all-start Jermaine O'Neal, they should be doing better.

 

The Sixers were a team last year that without Elton Brand finished 6 ^th in the east and took Detroit to six games in the playoffs. Now with virtually the same team and Elton Brand, they are struggling to find their rhythm and are 7-9 and 5-5 in their last ten. As for the “Wiz Kids,” although without injured star Gilbert Arenas they may not have been a playoff contender anyway, they are still abysmal with their 2-12 record which is good for worst in the east. Last season they played without Arenas for the most part, but still managed to finish above .500 and make the playoffs. They have now fired their coach Eddie Jordan and are in a state of disarray.

 

The disappointments in the west are the New Orleans Hornets, Dallas Mavericks, and LA Clippers. The Hornets finished second last year and were one game away from the western conference finals. They are now 9-6 and 7 ^th in the standings in the west. The Mavericks are 8-8 and look like they are ready to get their act together one game, and then go back to mediocrity the next. As for the Clippers, you would think they could be more competitive than their 3-13 record would suggest with the pickup of marquee point guard Baron Davis. Oh well.

 

As for the Spurs, I'm sure a lot of people would like to put them in as a disappointment, but they have been playing without Manu Ginobli for the entire season (who is set to return soon), and Tony Parker has just returned from his injury earlier in the season. To further their defense, they are now 9-7 and 7-3 in their last ten while being 8 ^th in the west.

 

Finally we come to the top dogs in the league.

 

In the east you have the Cleveland Cavaliers with their 14-3 records, 9-1 in the last ten games, and 2 ^nd place spot in the standings. They have put together a bevy of blowouts on their opponents this season, and the addition of a scoring point guard in Mo Williams has been absolutely huge for them.

 

The second team that has picked up right where they left off from last year is the Lakers. They are 13-1 and making mince meat out of would be superpower teams and have the best record in the NBA.

 

But the pinnacle of all teams continues to be the Boston Celtics. They're 16-2 and are still dominating defensively and continue to get great production from their supporting cast members. And although the Lakers get much help from their bench and up and coming players, let's face it… the Celtics are still the champs.

 

The last three teams I must mention are the Houston Rockets, Phoenix Suns, and Utah Jazz. To me, these three teams are in a state of limbo. Houston would look to be an upstart, but they can't seem to keep their stars, Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming, healthy. The Suns seem like the same team as last year, which wasn'ta contender anyway, and the Jazz keep being a team with potential that can't seem to build on it.

 

That would about sum up the NBA season at or around its quarter mark. We'll look to see who shifts from wherever they were in this discussion and who remains where they are in the coming weeks. As for those that I did not include in this article… you really just aren't worth mentioning (Chicago, Indiana, Milwaukee, Charlotte, Golden State, Minnesota, Sacramento, Memphis and Oklahoma City).

Knicks are in trouble…

The New York Knicks , supposedly need to gel, according to Mike D'Antoni. I fear that no amount of time will fix the Knicks woes. The Knicks have absolutely no defense. I mean during The Tuesday night Piston game they made just 4 stops in the 2nd half and the announcer started talking about how they are trying to turn around their Defensive troubles. Mike D'Antoni's system does not focus on defense, which it should, Mike believes in out scoring all and any opponents. With the players they have you'd think they be able to make some stops. I mean Wilson Chandler is one of the longest and most athletic SG/SF in the east, Al Harrington was drafted as a defensive specialist, Chris Duhan was said to be a great defender when he was picked up, so why do they suck so bad? The answer is quite obvious, they are the New York Knicks. They have a losing persona, and that is not changing anytime soon, even if they get what they want in 2010.

Al Harrington first suited up as a Knick on the 25th of November, His first start was on the 26th against the Pistons. He has loads of potentail in this system, not a bad pickup for fantasy basketball. Another noteable aqquistion will be Tim Thomas. He will fit in great in this system, since he already knows it, all he needs to do is get into running shape. Tim Thomas could be a 20 point 10 rebound guy, so if you need help in FFBB take a shot on this guy.

Mike D'Antoni Infuses New Life into the New York Knicks

In the Knicks' four victories they have averaged 110.5 points per game, and all have been quite convincing. Those kinds of numbers seem to be a direct reflection of a Mike D'Antoni coached team. Everyone who watches basketball knows what kinds of numbers the Suns put up when D'Antoni was in Phoenix.

Many people may have criticized D'Antoni and his decision to have starting point guard Stephon Marbury sit out. However, the players seem to be finding their roles under the steady direction of a more true point guard, if not nearly as talented, in Chris Duhon.

Hopefully for the Knicks, they can continue to build of this success.

NBA – Are the Atlanta Hawks a playoff contender?

Lets rewind the clocks back two years ago. The Atlanta Hawks were dubbed as one of the worst franchises ever in professional sports. They had the longest playoff drought in the NBA, spanning back to the 1998-1999 lockout season. For those of you that don't remember this team featured a young Dikembe Mutombo and Semi-All Star in Steve Smith. The Hawks showed signs of promise as they started off the year 4-1 and were atop the Eastern Conference standings during the infancy of the 2006-2007 season. Joe Johnson had completed one full year in Atlanta under the tutilage of Mike Woodson. Крайният резултат? A 30-52 record, finished last in their division, and amongst the worst of the NBA.

Last Year the started the season at 3-10. People had written off this team from the start with good reason I ight add. They finished the season at 37-45 and had snatched the 8th seed for their first playoff birth in 9 years. Of course this is not impressive by any means because this is the Eastern Conference we are talking about, where if you won 3 games in a row you could catapult from the 12 spot to the 7 spot. No as far as I'm concerned they were just as pathetic as they were before. But! When the playoffs came around, this was a different team. They pushed the Celtics to a crazy 7 games and almost created a huge upset. We as fanatics all talked about how this team was going to be good next year, and now next year has come around.

The Hawks have started off 3-0 and have beaten Orlando, Philly, and New Orleans, respectively. All three of those teams were playoff teams last year, with Orlando and New Orleans being division winners. There are whispers in the wind of the Hawks being legit this year. I am here to tell you otherwise. The Hawks are still a bad team. After years of poor management of the Coaches and Personnel, poor draft decisions (Not picking Chris Paul or Deron Williams when they had the chance), barely squeaking into the playoffs last year, this team is far from being much better than what they were last year. Teams like Atlanta are young and inexperienced, and live off of the hype of the beginning of the season. This is when coaches can reach them because they are eager to win and to learn. But as the season progresses and the players face the strain of traveling and going through the physical depreciation of their bodies, the true colors of the Hawks will show.

Think about this, Joe Johnson left the Suns to be the “man” on a bad team. In which he isn't even the franchise player, Josh Smith is. Speaking of Josh Smith, you think he wants to play in Atlanta? After how he was treated this offseason because the Hawks didn't want to shell out money to keep a young and athletic shot blocker and scorer. We all know as regular people, who have regular jobs or go to school. We follow the lead of our bosses or teachers. This Atlanta management team is a great example of how to not treat your players or managers. This group of players in Atlanta need more time to develop and need better coaches to help them develop. Despite Joe Johnson having a career year so far (28/5.7/3.7) the other parts of the Atlanta core (Mike Bibby and Josh Smith) are playing rather poorly. The loss of Josh Childress has placed more pressure on Marvin Williams, who has not risen to the occassion (6.5/6/0.5). I guarentee that this team will place out of the playoffs this year or at most the 8th seed again.

But, who knows, miracles can happen. After all Obama did become president.

Allen Iverson heads to the Motor City – Will Success Ensue?

Over the last five seasons he has averaged 7.3 assists per game, while Billups has averaged 6.8.

If Iverson can cut down on his 3.9 turnovers per game as opposed to Billups 2.2 through that same five year span, then his 29 points per game against Billups' hardly comparable 17 per game, also in the past five years can do wonders. Add that to his assists per game and much more playoff savvy crew than the one in Denver, and the Pistons are a clear cut prime contender to overtake the Boston Celtics as Eastern Conference Champions, and perhaps even attain home court advantage throughout the East if not the entire playoffs.

Stephon Marbury: Breaking News Update

Stephon Marbury has been headlining the news for the last three days, and Sportsroids has consulted with a source who says that, “Stephon may see time sooner than most people think.” Considering he is currently being paid 22 million this year, the source stated, “the New York Knick's management wants to make the most of that investment.” So there is the inside SportsRoids scoop. Marbury will be placed into the rotation within the next month and activated. Also to address all the trade talk rumors, I need to just pose one question, “why would the Knicks trade an expiring 22 million dollar contract if they want to have a chance at D. Wade or Lebron James?”

NBA'S Best Block Video

GREAT BLOCK VIDEO

Spurs Offense Sputtering without Star Manu Ginobli?

The San Antonio Spurs are not at their best, obviously, when Manu Ginobli isn't in the lineup, and many league analysts attribute the loss of his extra offense to their early woes. However, I believe their problems originate elsewhere.

Last night, it wasn'ta lack of offense that kept San Antonio out of the game. The cutting and driving lay-ups and mid-range jumpers of Tony Parker (24pts), and hooks and short J's of Tim Duncan (27pts) kept the Spurs in the game. But still, their were two other contributors for the Spurs last night; starter Michael Finley chipped in 16 points, and off-season free-agent acquisition Roger Mason scored 14 on 6-7 shooting… also helping to keep San Antonio in the game. The four player's point totals adds up to 81 of the 99 their team posted altogether. That really isn't bad considering teams like the Washington Wizards get an average of 70+ points from their big three, Gilbert Arenas (when actually healthy), Antawn Jamison, and Caron Butler, and are still one of the highest scoring teams in the Eastern Conference, if not the entire NBA.

The problem with last night's loss wasn'ta lack of offense for the Spurs, but a lack of defense, and the fact that they allowed 13 offensive boards and countless second chance points to the Trail Blazers. Add that to a hot 10-18, 26 point, shooting night by Brandon Roy, and the Spurs still only barely lost.  

For all the grief the Spurs offense is receiving, the problems look to be emanating more from a lack of fundamental basketball skills, a phase of the game that this team has shown to be the greatest at over the past several years. If they can get back to actual Spurs basketball and not allow a team so many offensive boards, they'll be back on track as one of the top five teams in the West.

Win or Lose, the Golden State Warriors are Great Entertainment

For the past two NBA seasons the Golden State Warriors have been an exciting team to watch. Their brand of run-and-gun doesn't always ensure victory, but for what it's worth, it provides a lot of entertainment. Even though Baron Davis has packed his bags and gone to the LA Clippers, after the performance that the Warriors with newly acquired Corey Maggette put on last night against New Orleans, this team promises to deliver.

If you watch the Warriors closely, you will notice that they are never out of a game. They tend to take shots in transition most of the time and it can prove to be killer for them as it was in their 108-103 loss against the Hornets last night, in the sense that it will keep them down by two to four points throughout a large portion of a game when they're playing against contenders. But regardless, this is exciting basketball, and the way that they consistently keep it close, when they aren't blowing their opponents out, further establishes their propensity for elite entertainment.

With the departure of Baron Davis, the Warriors are now led by Stephen Jackson and Corey Maggette. Jackson hits threes and much like Gilbert Arenas will knock down some questionable shots, while he and Maggette can take it to the hole or shoot a smooth “J.” Aside from those two players, the supporting cast is high-flying and tenacious. If the Warriors can continue their place as one of the highest scoring teams in the league then the return of Monta Ellis, the player who made the decision not to resign Davis much easier, will really have this team rolling at the point guard position.

2008-2009 NBA Regular Season Opening Night

When the NBA opens up their regular season tomorrow, the fans should be treated to a hotly contested battle between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics.

Last season, the two teams went to seven games before Boston finally came out on top. The main stat of the series was the fact that both teams won all of their home games. If the Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to make a statement to open the season, a win in Boston would be a great way to do so.

The second game of the TNT double-header features Greg Oden's NBA regular season debut when Portland travels to LA to face the reigning Western Conference champs.

The Lakers welcome back a promising young star in Andrew Bynum and look to continue their Western Conference dominance from last year when they finished with the best record in the conference. Last season, Portland was off to a surprising early start when they went on a 13 game winning streak at one point, but faded away the remainder of the year. Don't count out the young and talented Trail Blazers to make things interesting.

The schedulers did a decent job putting some spirited potential on the board for day one of the 2008-2009 NBA regular season.  

Andrew Bynum may play a Key Role in putting the Lakers over the Top

Last season, the LA Lakers took care of business in the first three rounds of the playoffs. They swept the Nuggets in the first round, eliminated the Jazz in six games in the second round, and defeated the Spurs in just five games in the Western Conference finals. It wasn't until the NBA Finals that they hit a wall when they lost to Boston in six games.

This year, they'll welcome back a healthy Andrew Bynum. And if you witnessed his performance in last night's pre-season game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, then you too may see why Andrew Bynum could place the Lakers back in the Finals with a much better shot at winning it all.

Bynum was dominant going 10-15 for a 66% scoring percentage, with 23 points. Bynum also added eight rebounds and three blocks. What was most promising was his poise under the basket. He didn't just get easy dunks all night. He was laying it up and taking short jumpers. The scary thing is he is only 20 years old.

The return of Bynum will give the Lakers two superstar caliber players on the inside with Pau Gasol being the other. The Celtics beat the Lakers last year with their trademark stingy interior defense. If the Lakers can match that this season, then seemingly, their main threat from last season may meet a more formidable Los Angeles team in this years Finals.

Tim Duncan the best player in the NBA…. Anyone?

TIMMY!!!

For the past 5 years I have been saying that Tim Duncan is the best player in the NBA why?   Because he is.    No really, look at his body of work over the past 5 years 3 rings “come on man you can't argue with that.”   To be honest many people will say Kobe is the best player or Lebron, but isn't the best player the guy who can get his team to the championship and win, and score points, and play defense, and rebound, and be a leader   Tim Duncan does all of this.   I am bringing this up because the NBA season will be starting soon and again Tim looks to be the best player in the league.   I am not going to list his career statistics, but look at them they are very good.   Also very rarely is guard the best player in the league. A guard is not going to bring a team a championship by himself he needs a great big man (not including Jordan), on the other hand a Big man does not need a great guard.   Tim Duncan is not going to score 81 points in a game but he will score 25 with 20 rebounds and 10 assists, and that's what makes a great player.   A guy who helps the team on all levels so argue if you want but look for Tim to get his 5 ^th ring this year, and prove me right. “TIMMY!!!”

don't agree leave a comment.

NBA League Pass should be a Prerequisite of any Diehard Pro Basketball Fan

I don't work for the NBA. I work for the SportsRoids authority of America in my spare time. But I must say that the NBA League Pass is something that diehard NBA fans should get. And I'm not talking about diehard fans of one team. I'm talking those who follow all the team's records throughout the season, and who like to watch games because of the talent and action.

If you multiply the 82 games that each team plays each season by the 30 teams there are in the league you get a total of 2,460 games. It seems almost unbelievable! I have enjoyed watching great NBA basketball the past two years as a League Pass owner for various reasons.

The NBA likes to nationally televise the games between the contenders, but there are plenty other teams out there with start talent and superstars that aren't being given face time. There are also a lot of young teams that have promising talent and fans cannot see them grow because they haven't reached their potential yet and the NBA schedulers won't “recognize” them.

I'm telling you, get NBA league pass. You get a whole lot of bang for your buck, and the games between underdogs and contenders are typically more competitive than if they met in a best of seven series. It is just a suggestion.

Preseason Outlook on NBA's top Championship Contenders in 2008-2009 Regular Season

You know, basketball is unlike pro football where your schedule can be favorable or brutal depending on whom teams are scheduled to play. But in basketball, you play every team. With that being said, I give you my top contenders for the title this season.

The Celtics have such a swagger. They have stifling interior defense and the stars are all leaders either by example or a mixture of that and charisma. They are a confident bunch from top to bottom.

The New Orleans Hornets are young, quick, defensive, and are lead by the best point guard in the league… Chris Paul. They let it slip against the Spurs, but they are young, and the Spurs are another year older.

The Lakers made it to the Finals, and they cruised in their Western Conference playoff matchups. However, the story was much different in the Finals.

The Lakers seemed to outmatch the Western Conference, but the Celtics won convincingly in the Finals against them so I'd put them ahead of LA The Hornets are good, but they are still younger than the Celtics, and ultimately the only have one true superstar against three in Boston.

I'd give the edge to Boston to win it all again.

Michael Jordan's Top 10 Dunks NBA

I always wanted to be like Mike. Just look at him, it's crazy. There will never be another MJ.

Michael Jordan's Top 10 Dunks NBA

I always wanted to be like Mike. Just look at him, it's crazy. There will never be another MJ.

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