Last night was the 2012 Draft and there was a lot of talk, as usual, around movement up and down to select 'this guy' or 'that guy', but for the most part every stayed in their lane. Almost as anti-climatic as the SCOTUS ruling on ACA, but that's another discussion. Let's jump right into the results and see who put their organization in a position to win the 2013 NBA Championship.
Atlanta Hawks: John Jenkins (Vandy) and Mike Scott (Virginia)
The Hawks got two pieces that should work for them. Jenkins is a shooter and that should work by giving them someone other than Joe Johnson to take those terribly deep 3's that this team ends up taking on way too many possessions. Scott is an ACC guy who can bang, who may get some run, but there are vets in the league that might get his spot.
Boston Celtics: Jared Sullinger (OSU), Fab Melo (Syracuse), and Kris Joseph (Syracuse)
Danny Ainge has got to be the happiest guy in the world that doctors gave Sully so much hell for his back that he fell into the Celtics lap at #21. The Celtics got the best back to the basket PF in the draft, and if he's healthy, as many suggest he will be, this is right up there with other great coups in the history of the world. As far as Melo is concerned, he won't have to worry about taking any tests, so I imagine that he will be providing a lot of defense for this team for the next few years. Melo's teammate at Cuse (didn't the Celtics draft teammates last year too?) may not ever see the light of day on an NBA court.
Brooklyn Nets: Tyshawn Taylor (Kansas), Tornike Shengelia (Georgia), and Ilkan Karaman (Turkey)
I know the Nets are going to make a splash because of their impending move to Brooklyn and the pomp and circumstance that will entail so who do they get in the draft? Who? I know him, but who else? That pretty much summed up the night. Taylor can be a player in the league, just gotta minimize that shooting guard within him, but I'm not even sure how to pronounce the names of the other 2 guys. I'm gonna take a guess that we probably won't see either of them for a while, if ever.
Charlotte Bobcats: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (Kentucky) and Jeff Taylor (Vandy)
Let's say a quick prayer before we get to Jordan's draft picks. Done. The Charlotte Bobcats scared everyone and got it right. I like Thomas Robinson, but I think that MKG is the player that this team needs. Hard worker and determined young guy that will definitely help this team. Throw in Taylor who can play some defense and hit some shots and you can already see that Rich Cho's impact on this team can already be seen.
Chicago Bulls: Marquis Teague (Kentucky)
Only pick in the draft and they get a guy that can fill in for Derrick Rose for the year that he's going to miss. He'll also be able to give Rose some much needed rest during games when he does get back. Good pick.
Cleveland Cavaliers: Dion Waiters (Syracuse) and Tyler Zeller (UNC)
Dan Gilbert still has his letter to LBJ posted on the Cavaliers site and he won't fulfill his promise of winning a championship in Cleveland prior to LBJ getting one, BUT the Cavs are moving in the right direction. Last year was Kyrie Irving and now they get Dion Waiters, whom some say could be a D. Wade clone. Think about that for a minute. In addition, the Cavs got Tyler Zeller. I like Zeller and think that his skillset made him one of the guys ready to step in and play in the NBA. He can play in the post, use both hands, runs the floor well, and rebounds. What more can you ask for? Note to Dan, take the letter down and concentrate on your team.
Dallas Mavericks: Jared Cunningham (Oregon State), Bernard James (FSU) and Jae Crowder (Marquette)
The Mavs are in a semi-rebuilding mode and they need some defense on the perimeter so Cunningham was the pick. He's being compared to Iman Shumpert. James is a 27 year old rookie who has served 3 tours in Iraq, so he brings a different kind of leadership to this team, especially for the younger ones. Crowder is a 6'5" PF. Maybe he can be a spark off the bench like the Manimal was last year for the Nuggets.
Denver Nuggets: Evan Fournier (France), Qunicy Miller (Baylor) and Izzet Turkyilmaz (Turkey)
Fournier is supposed to be a scorer in Europe and the hope is that it translates to the NBA. I think the pace that the Nuggets play will allow for that. Miller may be the steal of the draft if he gets fully healed from an ACL injury. Normally people need a full two years to recover and that is coming up for him. So if he starts balling, give the Nuggets some love for taking a chance on him.
Detroit Pistons: Andre Drummond (UCONN), Khris Middleton (TA&M) and Kim English (Missouri)
This may be the draft that answers a future trivia question: What was the last straw that got Joe Dumars fired as the GM of the Pistons? Andre Drummond. Drummond is young, but he has a man's body and once he learns how to use that body, the answer to this future question may have the same response: What did Joe Dumars do to turn this Pistons team back into a contender? Middleton and English are scorers that just need to be on the floor. Probably not a problem for them on this Pistons team.
Golden State Warriors: Harrison Barnes (UNC), Festus Ezeli (Vandy), Draymond Green (MSU) and Ognjen Kuzmic (Bosnia)
No we will see what the real Harrison Barnes looks like. He and Curry will be the center pieces of this Warriors team and Draymond Green is a Swiss Army knife that can do a little of everything. Ezeli and Kuzmic are big bodies that the Warriors never seem to have enough of.
Houston Rockets: Jeremy Lamb (UCONN), Royce White (ISU) and Terrance Jones (Kentucky)
This is how you re-build a team. Make a few shrewd moves prior to the draft and stock draft picks and pick one of the smoothest SG in college, to go along with one of the more physical and dominate PF in college, and finally you pair the two of them up with another one of the best PF in college that can do it all. Jesus be a good coach to get all of these guys on the same page and then watch out.
Indiana Pacers: Miles Plumlee (Duke) and Orlando Johnson (UC-Santa Barbara)
Wow!!! Only Coach K could be proud of this pick. I'm still a little stunned that Plumlee was picked in the first round period. Let's take a look, 7 feet tall, 252 pounds and he averaged 7 rebs a game on a perimeter-laden team at Duke his senior year? Wow. Johnson is another 4 year guy that can score and that's a skill that works in the NBA. I can just imagine the hazing that will ensue when Plumlee shows up at camp and Hansbrough is waiting for him at the door.
Los Angeles Clippers: Furkan Aldemir (Bosnia)
The Clipper pretty much sat the draft out. Not even sure if their draft war room was even used this year.
Los Angeles Lakers: Darius Johnson-Odom (Marquette) and Robert Sacre (Gonzaga)
The Lakers did ok because they need youth badly on their team. DJO is a short guard, more 2 than 1, but I like the fact that he can ball. He can play some defense and that may help him get on the floor. Sacre can be a body off the bench, but seems like more protection if the Lakers can't get Jordan Hill back this off-season.
Memphis Grizzlies: Tony Wroten Jr. (Washington)
Many thought that Wroten would be the one that snuck up into the lottery with his play this season. Seems like a turnover waiting to happen at times, but he's athletic and can get to the cup. If OJ Mayo is let go/traded/doesn't come back, there may be a spot open for us to catch glimpses of Mr. Wroten Jr.
Miami Heat: Justin Hamilton (LSU)
The Heat were still partying during the draft. The party will gone on.
Milwaukee Bucks: John Henson (UNC) and Doron Lamb (Kentucky)
The Bucks got a shot blocker and scorer with Henson and a shooter in Lamb. I like both of these picks for the Bucks. Now let's see if this works.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Robbie Hummel (Purdue)
I'm just happy the guy got drafted. No one has gone through the pain and anguish this kid has over his 20 years at Purdue (no he wasn't there 20 years but it felt like that). Hummel has game and high basketball IQ, so hopefully he'll fit in on this team and provide some bench play. Please God, don't let him get hurt again, not even a sprained ankle.
New Orleans Hornets: Anthony Davis (Kentucky), Austin Rivers (Duke) and Darius Miller (Kentucky)
Tom Benson hit the lottery, literally. Not only did he get the Unibrow, but he also got a dynamic coach's son in Rivers, and an all around glue guy like Miller, all in one draft. The only thing that the Hornets didn't do right was have a party before the draft letting everyone know how many 'ships they are going to win.
New York Knicks: Kostas Papanikolaou (Greece)
The Knicks spent their draft time researching ways to make Amare Stoudemire play defense. We have no notification if this is possible, but the search will continue.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Perry Jones (Baylor)
The best thing about the Thunder's draft is that they make a knee jerk reaction and trade 'the Beard' to move up and get Beal. Perry Jones, if healthy, is just a big bonus. Remember that KD's backup at SF is Lazar Hayward (he's probably the answer to a trivia question too).
Orlando Magic: Andrew Nicholson (St. Bonaventure) and Kyle O'Quinn (Norfolk State)
Nicholson is being compared to David West. Probably David West without the menace, but David West nonetheless. I don't see how this becomes an issue if he can space the floor. O'Quinn is a little more of a project, but played well in the NCAA tournament. You can't teach height people, you just can't.
Philadelphia 76ers: Maurice Harkless (SJU) and Arnett Moultrie (MSU)
Not sure how Harkless fits on this team since he's more slasher than shooter, but I do like the Moultrie pick because he can shoot and space the floor. The one thing I will say is that the first thing they need to do for Moultrie is to introduce him to Philly cheesesteaks immediately. Not loving that 233 pounds and you almost 7 feet tall.
Phoenix Suns: Kendall Marshall (UNC)
Who do you replace Steve Nash with if he leaves? Yeah, Marshall may not have been your first answer, but I'll tell you that I like this pick and I think the Suns players will like this pick when he gets to play. Something about guys that 'see' things differently and can get the rock to their scorers just makes things easier for everyone. Marshall still has to work on his jumper but we used to say that about Jason Kidd.
Portland Trail Blazers: Damian Lillard (Weber St.), Meyers Leonard (Ill) and Will Barton (Memphis)
Lillard has skyrocketed up the boards and things look like they are on the right progression for him, many EXPECT for him to succeed. Leonard, ummm,..well I think Zeller was a better pick than he was, so I'll leave it at that (please add my height saying here, 'you can't teach it'). Barton is a scorer that can probably help this team off the bench. They've had some success in the past with 2nd round picks.
Sacramento Kings: Thomas Robinson (KU)
NBA body, NBA ready. I wish nothing but success for this young man as he's already lived through hurts that some of us won't even experience. Pair him with Cousins and I don't want to have to get a rebound in the paint against the Kings.
San Antonio Spurs: Marcus Denmon (Missouri)
I'm going to say here it first, even if it's a CNN headline that may not be true; Marcus Denmon will provide close to 8 points per game off the Spurs bench next year. This is the type of guy that the Spurs always pick up and they turn out to be, get this, basketball players.
Toronto Raptors: Terrance Ross (WAS), Qunicy Acy (Baylor) and Tomislav Zubcic (Croatia)
Ross can score from the perimeter, Acy is an undersized PF (with loads of heart) and Zubcic, I know nothing about.
Utah Jazz: Kevin Murphy (Tenn Tech)
The guy could get buckets in college so the Jazz are hoping that he can translate that to the NBA to help they put some more points on the board. They've had success in the past with small colleges and they need another one now.
Washington Wizards: Bradley Beal (Florida) and Tomas Satoransky (Czech Republic)
This is what the Wizards needed, a complimentary player for Wall that can shoot and get buckets. Meet Brad Beal. I don't care if they would have drafted 2 other cats from the Czech Republic or Kenya for that matter. This helps the Wizards become relevant. Let that marinate. Satoransky might as well be a unicorn.
That's a wrap on the whole NBA Draft. How did your team do? Leave your comments. Until next time.
Who you got?!!?!?!?
Showing posts with label NBA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NBA. Show all posts
Friday, June 29, 2012
Friday, May 11, 2012
2012 NBA - Round 1 Series Recaps
Been watching a lot of basketball and hope that you have too. Unfortunately this year has been marred by injuries to several players but I hope that it doesn't impact the playoffs any further.
Heat vs. Knicks
If the Knicks didn't have bad luck, they'd have no luck at all. After losing Shumpert and Baron Davis to knee injuries, and Stoudemire for a game, the Knicks just seemed to be lost. I thought with a fuller roster, they would have given the Heat something to think about, but it just wasn't meant to be. With the off season now in full swing, the Knicks have some questions that need to be answered. 1) Do you call Phil Jackson and see if he's ready to coach again (and that's not a knock on Woody who did a great job with what he had). 2) Do you bring back JR Smith or do you hope he opts out? 3) Do you go after Nash in free agency? 4) and finally is Carmelo the guy that you can build around and win a championship (I think you can).
Thunder vs. Mavericks
The young bucks took down the defending champions and looked good doing it. Westbrook and Durant did a great job swapping responsibility of taking over the game. They do have to worry about the health of Kendrick Perkins who missed some time due to a hip strain. They also have to be prepared for the rust that they've accumulated while waiting to find out who they'll play in the 2nd round. The Mavericks go into the off season with some 'what if's' around Odom and Chandler and 'what happens' next year. The Jet is a free agent (if he goes to Miami, whew!!), and it looks like Deron Williams will be the top target for this team to be able to bounce back next year.
Spurs vs. Jazz
This was ugly, I mean really ugly. I thought the Jazz would have been able to compete in this series but they looked like a man showing up to a gun fight with a .22. They seemed to be able to play with this team for a few minutes at a time, but then that old man basketball got to them. The Spurs looked great in dismantling this Jazz team. The Big 3 in San Antonio (Ginobili, Parker, and Duncan) showed up but more telling was the bench showed that they are just as capable of scoring and defending when called upon. The Jazz go into the off season and they have to find a way to get some better point guard play. Their bigs actually showed some heart in this series, so I'm not as worried about them.
Bulls vs. Sixers
We knew it was over after that horrific Rose knee injury, but last night was a fitting (and possibly not) end to the Bulls season. They know who the guys are that they can count on (Rose, Noah, Gibson, and Deng) and they probably know who they can't (Carlos Boozer, I'm talking to you). The Bulls have to keep this team together and try and get back next year. They will pay dearly for that (around $85M), but there's nothing else to be done. The Sixers didn't impress me, especially in a closeout game playing a Bulls team without Noah and Rose. The Sixers didn't want to win that game last night, running an offense that consisted of hold the ball for 20 secs and then find a way to throw up a contested 3 pointer at the buzzer (I apologize to my neighbors for the yelling and screaming that you heard last night, that was me and the TV). Up next for the Sixers, the Boston Celtics and we can now start the clock as to how much longer the Sixers will be in the playoffs.
Hawks vs Celtics
You know that you should never, under any circumstances, bet ON the Atlanta Hawks. Never!!!! If they were in a one pony race you should bet on the jockey or someone, but not the Hawks. There is something about this team that just needs to change. Johnson is a good complimentary player, but he's not your ace. Horford came back and was probably the 2nd best player in this series for the Hawks. It's gotta be the 'Curse of Chris Paul' that hangs over this team. The Celtics aren't spectacular but they someone how get it done. Pierce is playing on a sprained knee and without him, I'm not sure this team could score 70, especially with Ray Allen hobbled with bone spurs. The good thing in all of this is that the Celtics get the Sixers and another chance to play old man basketball (slow it down) against a younger team. The bad is that if Pierce's knee gets worse, what happens? I'm not sure KG has many more of those 28pts, 14 rebs games left in him.
Heat vs. Knicks
If the Knicks didn't have bad luck, they'd have no luck at all. After losing Shumpert and Baron Davis to knee injuries, and Stoudemire for a game, the Knicks just seemed to be lost. I thought with a fuller roster, they would have given the Heat something to think about, but it just wasn't meant to be. With the off season now in full swing, the Knicks have some questions that need to be answered. 1) Do you call Phil Jackson and see if he's ready to coach again (and that's not a knock on Woody who did a great job with what he had). 2) Do you bring back JR Smith or do you hope he opts out? 3) Do you go after Nash in free agency? 4) and finally is Carmelo the guy that you can build around and win a championship (I think you can).
Thunder vs. Mavericks
The young bucks took down the defending champions and looked good doing it. Westbrook and Durant did a great job swapping responsibility of taking over the game. They do have to worry about the health of Kendrick Perkins who missed some time due to a hip strain. They also have to be prepared for the rust that they've accumulated while waiting to find out who they'll play in the 2nd round. The Mavericks go into the off season with some 'what if's' around Odom and Chandler and 'what happens' next year. The Jet is a free agent (if he goes to Miami, whew!!), and it looks like Deron Williams will be the top target for this team to be able to bounce back next year.
Spurs vs. Jazz
This was ugly, I mean really ugly. I thought the Jazz would have been able to compete in this series but they looked like a man showing up to a gun fight with a .22. They seemed to be able to play with this team for a few minutes at a time, but then that old man basketball got to them. The Spurs looked great in dismantling this Jazz team. The Big 3 in San Antonio (Ginobili, Parker, and Duncan) showed up but more telling was the bench showed that they are just as capable of scoring and defending when called upon. The Jazz go into the off season and they have to find a way to get some better point guard play. Their bigs actually showed some heart in this series, so I'm not as worried about them.
Bulls vs. Sixers
We knew it was over after that horrific Rose knee injury, but last night was a fitting (and possibly not) end to the Bulls season. They know who the guys are that they can count on (Rose, Noah, Gibson, and Deng) and they probably know who they can't (Carlos Boozer, I'm talking to you). The Bulls have to keep this team together and try and get back next year. They will pay dearly for that (around $85M), but there's nothing else to be done. The Sixers didn't impress me, especially in a closeout game playing a Bulls team without Noah and Rose. The Sixers didn't want to win that game last night, running an offense that consisted of hold the ball for 20 secs and then find a way to throw up a contested 3 pointer at the buzzer (I apologize to my neighbors for the yelling and screaming that you heard last night, that was me and the TV). Up next for the Sixers, the Boston Celtics and we can now start the clock as to how much longer the Sixers will be in the playoffs.
Hawks vs Celtics
You know that you should never, under any circumstances, bet ON the Atlanta Hawks. Never!!!! If they were in a one pony race you should bet on the jockey or someone, but not the Hawks. There is something about this team that just needs to change. Johnson is a good complimentary player, but he's not your ace. Horford came back and was probably the 2nd best player in this series for the Hawks. It's gotta be the 'Curse of Chris Paul' that hangs over this team. The Celtics aren't spectacular but they someone how get it done. Pierce is playing on a sprained knee and without him, I'm not sure this team could score 70, especially with Ray Allen hobbled with bone spurs. The good thing in all of this is that the Celtics get the Sixers and another chance to play old man basketball (slow it down) against a younger team. The bad is that if Pierce's knee gets worse, what happens? I'm not sure KG has many more of those 28pts, 14 rebs games left in him.
2012 NBA Playoffs - Miami Heat vs. Indiana Pacers
Let the 2nd Round of the NBA Playoffs begin and first up are the Heat and the Pacers. The Heat beat a Knicks team that just couldn't get it, mostly health, together to put up more of a fight and the Pacers get here after trouncing the Orlando Magic and Stan Van Gundy (#dietpepsiswag).
Heat: LeBron is showing people that he's the best player on the planet, those are not my words, but from the sage named Charles Barkley. I tend to agree that this version of the Heat are scary on both sides of the ball. We can safely say that the torch is slowly being handed to LeBron from Wade as the leader of this Heat team and that makes them even better. In this series we are going to expect that Wade and LeBron show up, but this won't be the cakewalk that some think this will be.
Who has to step up: It's going to be the Heat bigs. Bosh, Haslem, Anthony, Howard, and might we even see Pittman and (gulp) Curry in this series. The Pacers have length, height, and depth in their frontline and the Heat are going to have to use the bodies they have to deal with this.
Pacers: The Pacers are that team that no one wants to play. They are a solid team that can play defense and the ability to put points on the board when necessary. Did I mention that they are deep at every position? They pose problems for the Heat because they can slow it down and protect the rim, but the question may be who steps up from an offensive side of the ball in order to offset the Heat Big 3.
Who has to step up: Danny Granger, Paul George, and Roy Hibbert. Yes, Granger and George, both essentially play the same position, but these guys are going to have to score and score efficiently. Did I mention defense too? These two guys are going to have to average 20 a piece and come close to matching the output of Wade and LBJ if the Pacers hope to win this series. Roy Hibbert is going to have to protect the paint and not be in any dunk posters (do they still have those?) that we used to put up on our wall. Hibbert is the biggest guy on the court and should be able to get a few easy buckets and alter some shots.
Outcome: Don't really like the matchup for the Heat, but it's something that they can handle. Heat should win this one in 6 and prepare for the East Conference Finals.
Heat: LeBron is showing people that he's the best player on the planet, those are not my words, but from the sage named Charles Barkley. I tend to agree that this version of the Heat are scary on both sides of the ball. We can safely say that the torch is slowly being handed to LeBron from Wade as the leader of this Heat team and that makes them even better. In this series we are going to expect that Wade and LeBron show up, but this won't be the cakewalk that some think this will be.
Who has to step up: It's going to be the Heat bigs. Bosh, Haslem, Anthony, Howard, and might we even see Pittman and (gulp) Curry in this series. The Pacers have length, height, and depth in their frontline and the Heat are going to have to use the bodies they have to deal with this.
Pacers: The Pacers are that team that no one wants to play. They are a solid team that can play defense and the ability to put points on the board when necessary. Did I mention that they are deep at every position? They pose problems for the Heat because they can slow it down and protect the rim, but the question may be who steps up from an offensive side of the ball in order to offset the Heat Big 3.
Who has to step up: Danny Granger, Paul George, and Roy Hibbert. Yes, Granger and George, both essentially play the same position, but these guys are going to have to score and score efficiently. Did I mention defense too? These two guys are going to have to average 20 a piece and come close to matching the output of Wade and LBJ if the Pacers hope to win this series. Roy Hibbert is going to have to protect the paint and not be in any dunk posters (do they still have those?) that we used to put up on our wall. Hibbert is the biggest guy on the court and should be able to get a few easy buckets and alter some shots.
Outcome: Don't really like the matchup for the Heat, but it's something that they can handle. Heat should win this one in 6 and prepare for the East Conference Finals.
Monday, April 30, 2012
2012 NBA Playoffs - Game 1 Recaps
A very exciting NBA Playoff weekend this was. So much happened, but I will start with the bad news first,....
Bulls vs. 76ers - For anyone who watched this game, your heart had to go out to Derrick Rose when you saw this injury. He has been nicked up all year long and probably needed some more time, but it is what it is. I don't think having him out there put him in anymore danger than him running in the lay up line, but it didn't look good for Thibs. I felt like the Bulls should have saved Derrick from himself during these injuries. You know he knows how to play one way and that's full tilt, so you gotta slow him down and sit him a few more games. If you didn't read, check this out. Bulls should still beat the 76ers, but we'll see what happens next round. A possible suspension could still mean ECF for the Bulls.
Heat vs. Knicks - Well we know that LBJ might have wrapped up that MVP trophy with his performance, even if it was against the Knicks. The Heat looked awesome in their Game 1 rout, but this Knicks team won't go quietly. They got hit with the injury bug also with Shump out (ACL), Chandler questionable (flu), and Baron Davis questionable (back). I would really like to see this Knicks squad at full strength against the Heat, but we'll have to wait till next year for that.
Pacers vs. Magic - The Pacers let one get away in this series and if they continue to play like this, they are going to look back on this series and want to just throw up. Everyone on the Pacers has got to step up and forget Game 1, and get back to doing what they do, defense and consistent (although not spectacular) offense. Note to the Pacers guards, if the clock is running down and you have not gotten the ball to Granger or West, you are doing something wrong.
Thunder vs. Mavericks - Ok, let me see how this works. You lose and Dirk didn't get enough calls. Last year Dirk averaged close to 13 free throws a game in the Finals (someone check me on this), but he probably didn't get enough calls then either. OKC won a close one, which is something that I think each team will have to do, win close games. Dirk vs. KD is gonna be good for the rest of this series.
Spurs vs. Jazz - Well, the Spurs looked great and the Jazz looked,....most of them looked pretty good,...but they were lacking in one position on the floor. I'll let you figure it out, but they have got to change what they are doing or this is going to be a quick series that will give the Spurs some rest.
Lakers vs. Nuggets - All of that Howard for Bynum trade talk is essentially out the window. The Lakers would be crazy to trade for Howard straight up. Bynum's triple double with blocks, speaks volumes to what he can bring to the table along with some post moves (something Howard has none of). Kobe quietly had a bad game and the Lakers win. Just what people don't need to hear if you're anti-Lakers. The Nuggets have to pick up the pace or they will be home in 3 more.
Celtics vs. Hawks - Will he or won't he get suspended? Hammer has to fall relatively quickly since there's 48 hours between games. I think Rondo has to be suspended 1 game and the Hawks have got to make the Celtics pay for that. Josh Smith showed all of the things (good and bad) that make him the player he is, but if he concentrates on shooting 15ft jumpers and working around the rim, this Hawks team will win. Jeff Teague is slowly showing us that he can be a legitimate starter in this league.
Grizzlies vs. Clippers - No, I didn't watch the game all the way through. The wife wanted to turn to see Real Housewives (don't know which one), but I said, let me watch this for a minute. Paul got a T, and the Grizzlies seemed to be shooting like they were at Dave and Busters (hitting everything). I go to sleep and while I'm getting ready for work, I see the score flash across the bottom of Sportscenter,....can't be right. I watch the highlights and I'm still not convinced that the Clippers came back from 27 down to win Game 1. Someone tell me I'm in a different universe or something because THAT didn't just happen.
Check out each series and my picks: Grizzlies vs. Clippers, Celtics vs. Hawks, Lakers vs. Nuggets, Spurs vs. Jazz, Thunder vs. Mavericks, Heat vs. Knicks, Bulls vs. 76ers, Pacers vs. Magic
Who you got?!?!?
Bulls vs. 76ers - For anyone who watched this game, your heart had to go out to Derrick Rose when you saw this injury. He has been nicked up all year long and probably needed some more time, but it is what it is. I don't think having him out there put him in anymore danger than him running in the lay up line, but it didn't look good for Thibs. I felt like the Bulls should have saved Derrick from himself during these injuries. You know he knows how to play one way and that's full tilt, so you gotta slow him down and sit him a few more games. If you didn't read, check this out. Bulls should still beat the 76ers, but we'll see what happens next round. A possible suspension could still mean ECF for the Bulls.
Heat vs. Knicks - Well we know that LBJ might have wrapped up that MVP trophy with his performance, even if it was against the Knicks. The Heat looked awesome in their Game 1 rout, but this Knicks team won't go quietly. They got hit with the injury bug also with Shump out (ACL), Chandler questionable (flu), and Baron Davis questionable (back). I would really like to see this Knicks squad at full strength against the Heat, but we'll have to wait till next year for that.
Pacers vs. Magic - The Pacers let one get away in this series and if they continue to play like this, they are going to look back on this series and want to just throw up. Everyone on the Pacers has got to step up and forget Game 1, and get back to doing what they do, defense and consistent (although not spectacular) offense. Note to the Pacers guards, if the clock is running down and you have not gotten the ball to Granger or West, you are doing something wrong.
Thunder vs. Mavericks - Ok, let me see how this works. You lose and Dirk didn't get enough calls. Last year Dirk averaged close to 13 free throws a game in the Finals (someone check me on this), but he probably didn't get enough calls then either. OKC won a close one, which is something that I think each team will have to do, win close games. Dirk vs. KD is gonna be good for the rest of this series.
Spurs vs. Jazz - Well, the Spurs looked great and the Jazz looked,....most of them looked pretty good,...but they were lacking in one position on the floor. I'll let you figure it out, but they have got to change what they are doing or this is going to be a quick series that will give the Spurs some rest.
Lakers vs. Nuggets - All of that Howard for Bynum trade talk is essentially out the window. The Lakers would be crazy to trade for Howard straight up. Bynum's triple double with blocks, speaks volumes to what he can bring to the table along with some post moves (something Howard has none of). Kobe quietly had a bad game and the Lakers win. Just what people don't need to hear if you're anti-Lakers. The Nuggets have to pick up the pace or they will be home in 3 more.
Celtics vs. Hawks - Will he or won't he get suspended? Hammer has to fall relatively quickly since there's 48 hours between games. I think Rondo has to be suspended 1 game and the Hawks have got to make the Celtics pay for that. Josh Smith showed all of the things (good and bad) that make him the player he is, but if he concentrates on shooting 15ft jumpers and working around the rim, this Hawks team will win. Jeff Teague is slowly showing us that he can be a legitimate starter in this league.
Grizzlies vs. Clippers - No, I didn't watch the game all the way through. The wife wanted to turn to see Real Housewives (don't know which one), but I said, let me watch this for a minute. Paul got a T, and the Grizzlies seemed to be shooting like they were at Dave and Busters (hitting everything). I go to sleep and while I'm getting ready for work, I see the score flash across the bottom of Sportscenter,....can't be right. I watch the highlights and I'm still not convinced that the Clippers came back from 27 down to win Game 1. Someone tell me I'm in a different universe or something because THAT didn't just happen.
Check out each series and my picks: Grizzlies vs. Clippers, Celtics vs. Hawks, Lakers vs. Nuggets, Spurs vs. Jazz, Thunder vs. Mavericks, Heat vs. Knicks, Bulls vs. 76ers, Pacers vs. Magic
Who you got?!?!?
Sunday, April 29, 2012
2012 NBA Playoffs - Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Clippers
This might be the most highlight worthy series starting this weekend. Both of these teams have a lot of promise and we'll see who shows up.
Grizzlies: This was the darling team that made lots of noise last year plowing through the Western Conference playoffs. The beef up front in Gasol and Randolph cause enough problems of their own, but this team now has Rudy Gay back to go along with the rest of this solid team. They have a stopper in Tony Allen, a bench guy that can score when needed in OJ Mayo, and we're hoping that we get a chance to see the artist formerly known as Agent 0. This Grizzlies team is just starting to catch some momentum with the return of Randolph and will be a tough out for the Clippers.
Who has to step up: Mike Conley. This is going to be a match up based on tempo. The Grizzlies can run, but they are best with their bigs dominating the Clippers bigs. Conley will have to control that tempo and keep the Clippers (Paul) from pushing for all of those highlight finishes by the Clippers.
Clippers: The Clippers are in the playoffs!!!! Let's celebrate that for a moment. The early season trade that brought them Chris Paul is paying dividends and I even like the pick up of Nick Young who gives them some height and scoring in the backcourt. We all know about Griffin and Jordan and the dunks, but I think the Clippers are going to have to perform in the half court because this is the playoffs. This should be a very good series.
Who has to step up: Caron Butler and Kenyon Martin. Butler has got to show up big time for this Clippers team. Foye, Paul, and Williams can shoot the 3 ball to provide some space, but I think Butler is going to have to put someone on the block and make them guard him from there. This is why the Clippers got Kenyon Martin for this playoff run. He's going to have to rebound and play the enforcer for this team if they hope to win this series. He can't let people just take Blake Griffin down like they have been doing. But Martin can't get thrown out either.
Outcome: This is a tough one, heart says Clippers, head says Grizzlies. I got the Clippers in 7.
Grizzlies: This was the darling team that made lots of noise last year plowing through the Western Conference playoffs. The beef up front in Gasol and Randolph cause enough problems of their own, but this team now has Rudy Gay back to go along with the rest of this solid team. They have a stopper in Tony Allen, a bench guy that can score when needed in OJ Mayo, and we're hoping that we get a chance to see the artist formerly known as Agent 0. This Grizzlies team is just starting to catch some momentum with the return of Randolph and will be a tough out for the Clippers.
Who has to step up: Mike Conley. This is going to be a match up based on tempo. The Grizzlies can run, but they are best with their bigs dominating the Clippers bigs. Conley will have to control that tempo and keep the Clippers (Paul) from pushing for all of those highlight finishes by the Clippers.
Clippers: The Clippers are in the playoffs!!!! Let's celebrate that for a moment. The early season trade that brought them Chris Paul is paying dividends and I even like the pick up of Nick Young who gives them some height and scoring in the backcourt. We all know about Griffin and Jordan and the dunks, but I think the Clippers are going to have to perform in the half court because this is the playoffs. This should be a very good series.
Who has to step up: Caron Butler and Kenyon Martin. Butler has got to show up big time for this Clippers team. Foye, Paul, and Williams can shoot the 3 ball to provide some space, but I think Butler is going to have to put someone on the block and make them guard him from there. This is why the Clippers got Kenyon Martin for this playoff run. He's going to have to rebound and play the enforcer for this team if they hope to win this series. He can't let people just take Blake Griffin down like they have been doing. But Martin can't get thrown out either.
Outcome: This is a tough one, heart says Clippers, head says Grizzlies. I got the Clippers in 7.
2012 NBA Playoffs - Boston Celtics vs. Atlanta Hawks
This is probably the series that most people won't watch outside of Boston and half the population of Atlanta. There isn't any sizzle in this one, just two so-so teams that have to play each other.
Celtics: We thought they were dead, and then it happened. The Celtics moved KG to center and someone woke up Rajon Rondo. The Celtics have since been on a tear and have rekindled those dreams of them doing damage in the playoffs. The emergence of Avery Bradley, in the wake of Ray Allen's injury has given this Celtics squad some scoring punch, but the issue is the Celtics' bench is weak. This will mean heavy minutes for both KG and Paul Pierce if they are going to make some noise. How long can they hold up is the biggest question.
Who has to step up: Celtics Bench. They have to give these starters some rest and give this team a chance. Ray Allen will help with his move to the bench, but no one knows how that ankle is going to be when he gets back.
Hawks: Don't know what to say about the Hawks. They seem to be in a groundhog day cycle over the last few years where they end up being a 4th or 5th seed and not much is expected from them. Joe Johnson and Josh Smith lead this team (18+ pts a piece) and Jeff Teague took the success of last years playoffs and parlayed that into a good season for him. Losing Horford has hurt this team but they've played the majority of the season without him.
Who has to step up: Tracy McGrady (gulp) and Kirk Hinrich. For some reason I see the artist formerly known as T-Mac having some impact on this series. I hope he plays and plays well, but he could be 'that' mismatch against the Celtics bench. Hinrich has to be the solid guy that he has been the majority of his career and hit a few clutch shots and play some defense (without fouling).
Outcome: I got the Celtics in 6. I don't have faith in this Hawks team, never have, never will.
Celtics: We thought they were dead, and then it happened. The Celtics moved KG to center and someone woke up Rajon Rondo. The Celtics have since been on a tear and have rekindled those dreams of them doing damage in the playoffs. The emergence of Avery Bradley, in the wake of Ray Allen's injury has given this Celtics squad some scoring punch, but the issue is the Celtics' bench is weak. This will mean heavy minutes for both KG and Paul Pierce if they are going to make some noise. How long can they hold up is the biggest question.
Who has to step up: Celtics Bench. They have to give these starters some rest and give this team a chance. Ray Allen will help with his move to the bench, but no one knows how that ankle is going to be when he gets back.
Hawks: Don't know what to say about the Hawks. They seem to be in a groundhog day cycle over the last few years where they end up being a 4th or 5th seed and not much is expected from them. Joe Johnson and Josh Smith lead this team (18+ pts a piece) and Jeff Teague took the success of last years playoffs and parlayed that into a good season for him. Losing Horford has hurt this team but they've played the majority of the season without him.
Who has to step up: Tracy McGrady (gulp) and Kirk Hinrich. For some reason I see the artist formerly known as T-Mac having some impact on this series. I hope he plays and plays well, but he could be 'that' mismatch against the Celtics bench. Hinrich has to be the solid guy that he has been the majority of his career and hit a few clutch shots and play some defense (without fouling).
Outcome: I got the Celtics in 6. I don't have faith in this Hawks team, never have, never will.
2012 NBA Playoffs - Los Angeles Lakers vs. Denver Nuggets
Lakers and Nuggets for the chance to play the OKC Thunder (yes, I'm projecting).
Lakers: The Lakers come into the playoffs with the suspension of Metta World Peace and the health of Kobe's shin as the hot topics of discussion. We all know that 'the elbow' has MWP out for at least the first 6 games of this series, but more importantly we may be an injured shin away from Kobe being out of the playoffs. The Lakers were already thin on the wings prior to the suspension and that will impact this game, because I'm not sure who's going to guard Gallo. The Lakers do have the best big man tandem in the league in Bynum and Gasol and will be smart to lean on those two as they play a Nuggets team without a lot of size.
Who has to step up: Devin Ebanks, Matt Barnes, and Ramon Sessions. Ebanks has been playing well as of late but he and Matt Barnes are going to not only find a way to play some defense, but they are going to have to find a way to consistently score also. Ramon Sessions is going to have to play ball and find a way to slow down Ty Lawson.
Nuggets: These ain't the Carmelo Anthony Nuggets. This team runs and runs and runs. They have Danillo (Gallo) Gallinari, Ty Lawson, and Aaron Afflalo. Gallo, before hurting his foot earlier this year, was on a tear. He is a 6'11" guy with a perimeter game and with MWP out he should be able to get going. Afflalo can do it all, including some defense on Kobe. When you add in an active, yet immature McGee and the rookie fan favorite in Faried, these Nuggets are going to keep coming at you.
Who has to step up: Danillo Gallinari and Ty Lawson. Gallo is going to have to revert to his mid-season tear that he was on and he isn't scared to take those big shots. Ty Lawson is going to have to see if anyone on the Lakers can keep up with him. The more he pushes the ball and exposes that defense, the easier it'll be for these Nuggets to score. If the game slows down the Lakers will be able to use their size advantage.
Outcome: I got the Lakers in 7, just in time for the return of MWP and a matchup with the Thunder.
Lakers: The Lakers come into the playoffs with the suspension of Metta World Peace and the health of Kobe's shin as the hot topics of discussion. We all know that 'the elbow' has MWP out for at least the first 6 games of this series, but more importantly we may be an injured shin away from Kobe being out of the playoffs. The Lakers were already thin on the wings prior to the suspension and that will impact this game, because I'm not sure who's going to guard Gallo. The Lakers do have the best big man tandem in the league in Bynum and Gasol and will be smart to lean on those two as they play a Nuggets team without a lot of size.
Who has to step up: Devin Ebanks, Matt Barnes, and Ramon Sessions. Ebanks has been playing well as of late but he and Matt Barnes are going to not only find a way to play some defense, but they are going to have to find a way to consistently score also. Ramon Sessions is going to have to play ball and find a way to slow down Ty Lawson.
Nuggets: These ain't the Carmelo Anthony Nuggets. This team runs and runs and runs. They have Danillo (Gallo) Gallinari, Ty Lawson, and Aaron Afflalo. Gallo, before hurting his foot earlier this year, was on a tear. He is a 6'11" guy with a perimeter game and with MWP out he should be able to get going. Afflalo can do it all, including some defense on Kobe. When you add in an active, yet immature McGee and the rookie fan favorite in Faried, these Nuggets are going to keep coming at you.
Who has to step up: Danillo Gallinari and Ty Lawson. Gallo is going to have to revert to his mid-season tear that he was on and he isn't scared to take those big shots. Ty Lawson is going to have to see if anyone on the Lakers can keep up with him. The more he pushes the ball and exposes that defense, the easier it'll be for these Nuggets to score. If the game slows down the Lakers will be able to use their size advantage.
Outcome: I got the Lakers in 7, just in time for the return of MWP and a matchup with the Thunder.
2012 NBA Playoffs - San Antonio Spurs vs. Utah Jazz
In recent years, this would have been a matchup for the Western Finals but this year it's a #1 vs. #8. The Spurs are rolling and have people saying don't forget about us, we're still here.
Spurs: The Spurs usually win with defense but this team is winning with offense. They are actually scoring over 100 points a game. If you've watched the Spurs for years, getting to 100 was an amazing feat. Tim Duncan has found the fountain of youth and Tony Parker has gotten his name back into that best point guard in the game discussion. Ginobili is still underrated, but this team is going to win because of their bench. This Spurs team is still dangerous so don't sleep on them.
Who has to step up: Boris Diaw and Stephen Jackson. Diaw is the Swiss army knife of players, but his effort has always been questioned. He has the tools to be a mismatch at the 3 or 4 but he has got to play ball. Jackson has always been one of those guys that can get on a court and score 20 any night, but he can also, when he wants to, D someone up. They are going to need him to possibly do both in this series.
Jazz: The Jazz have been going sideways most of the season but have fallen into the 8th spot. I actually like the bigs that Utah bring into this game with Milsap, Jefferson, Kanter and Favors. If they get some wing production, they could scare a few people. The Jazz are one of those teams that have the pieces, but something is missing. Maybe they find 'that' in this series.
Who has to step up: Al Jefferson and Devin Harris. Jefferson just has to do what he do and be a beast on the blocks, but he has to stay out of foul trouble against the Big Fundamental. That's the only way his team will have a chance to win. Devin Harris has been that up and coming point guard and he's been that guy that you throw in on a trade. Which one shows up during this series? Harris has the talent, but I can't explain why he doesn't play better. Maybe the 'it' that the Jazz are missing starts with him. If he plays well,...this will be interesting.
Outcome: I got the Spurs in 6. Utah may scare them, but Spurs have the edge.
Spurs: The Spurs usually win with defense but this team is winning with offense. They are actually scoring over 100 points a game. If you've watched the Spurs for years, getting to 100 was an amazing feat. Tim Duncan has found the fountain of youth and Tony Parker has gotten his name back into that best point guard in the game discussion. Ginobili is still underrated, but this team is going to win because of their bench. This Spurs team is still dangerous so don't sleep on them.
Who has to step up: Boris Diaw and Stephen Jackson. Diaw is the Swiss army knife of players, but his effort has always been questioned. He has the tools to be a mismatch at the 3 or 4 but he has got to play ball. Jackson has always been one of those guys that can get on a court and score 20 any night, but he can also, when he wants to, D someone up. They are going to need him to possibly do both in this series.
Jazz: The Jazz have been going sideways most of the season but have fallen into the 8th spot. I actually like the bigs that Utah bring into this game with Milsap, Jefferson, Kanter and Favors. If they get some wing production, they could scare a few people. The Jazz are one of those teams that have the pieces, but something is missing. Maybe they find 'that' in this series.
Who has to step up: Al Jefferson and Devin Harris. Jefferson just has to do what he do and be a beast on the blocks, but he has to stay out of foul trouble against the Big Fundamental. That's the only way his team will have a chance to win. Devin Harris has been that up and coming point guard and he's been that guy that you throw in on a trade. Which one shows up during this series? Harris has the talent, but I can't explain why he doesn't play better. Maybe the 'it' that the Jazz are missing starts with him. If he plays well,...this will be interesting.
Outcome: I got the Spurs in 6. Utah may scare them, but Spurs have the edge.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
2012 NBA Playoffs - Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Dallas Mavericks
Last years' champ versus the team that everyone outside of San Antonio picked to come out of the West. This is one that I am going to definitely have to watch. Is this the year for the Thunder?
Thunder: What's not to like about this Thunder team? They have possibly the best duo in the league in Westbrook and Durant and once you get past them, they still have the probable 6th Man of the Year in Harden, and let's not even talk about the defense (Ibaka and Perkins). They are a little thin from a bench standpoint, but Harden, if healthy, makes up for a lot of that. This team seems poised to take that next step, but they have to get past a defending champ which is always hard.
Who has to step up: James Harden. I'm picking on him because he has to show us that he's healthy and that he can take a hit. If he is free and clear from the concussion and doesn't have any lingering effect on him, then the same James Harden that's showed up all year will have to get back in the groove. This could possibly be the only thing that derails this team.
Mavericks: It's been a tough year for the Mavericks. They thought they pulled a coup in getting Lamar Odom, but that didn't work well and then they were without their floor general in Jason Kidd for a significant time this season. Add to that, Dirk's knee and people were starting to think that maybe the Mavericks were tanking to make sure that they could get Deron Williams this summer. As of late this team has gelled and they resemble the team that won it all last year, without a defensive presence (Tyson Chandler). You can never count a champ out, so I don't think there will be any brooms in this series, but look for a tough one for both teams.
Who has to step up: Delonte West and Rodrigue (Roddy) Beaubois. Delonte has quietly been the cog that has kept this team moving. He can score and play defense and has played within himself all year. He's given the Mavericks another scorer in the starting lineup that should make things easier for Dirk since you can't double off of West. Roddy Beaubois is probably going to see some time chasing Harden and or the backup point guard combo of Derek Fisher/Royal Ivey. If Beaubois can cause some problems for the Thunder bench, that's great for the Mavericks.
Outcome: I got the Thunder in 6. Looking forward to seeing the Thunder in the West Finals.
Thunder: What's not to like about this Thunder team? They have possibly the best duo in the league in Westbrook and Durant and once you get past them, they still have the probable 6th Man of the Year in Harden, and let's not even talk about the defense (Ibaka and Perkins). They are a little thin from a bench standpoint, but Harden, if healthy, makes up for a lot of that. This team seems poised to take that next step, but they have to get past a defending champ which is always hard.
Who has to step up: James Harden. I'm picking on him because he has to show us that he's healthy and that he can take a hit. If he is free and clear from the concussion and doesn't have any lingering effect on him, then the same James Harden that's showed up all year will have to get back in the groove. This could possibly be the only thing that derails this team.
Mavericks: It's been a tough year for the Mavericks. They thought they pulled a coup in getting Lamar Odom, but that didn't work well and then they were without their floor general in Jason Kidd for a significant time this season. Add to that, Dirk's knee and people were starting to think that maybe the Mavericks were tanking to make sure that they could get Deron Williams this summer. As of late this team has gelled and they resemble the team that won it all last year, without a defensive presence (Tyson Chandler). You can never count a champ out, so I don't think there will be any brooms in this series, but look for a tough one for both teams.
Who has to step up: Delonte West and Rodrigue (Roddy) Beaubois. Delonte has quietly been the cog that has kept this team moving. He can score and play defense and has played within himself all year. He's given the Mavericks another scorer in the starting lineup that should make things easier for Dirk since you can't double off of West. Roddy Beaubois is probably going to see some time chasing Harden and or the backup point guard combo of Derek Fisher/Royal Ivey. If Beaubois can cause some problems for the Thunder bench, that's great for the Mavericks.
Outcome: I got the Thunder in 6. Looking forward to seeing the Thunder in the West Finals.
2012 NBA Playoffs - Indiana Pacers vs. Orlando Magic
This matchup between the 3rd seeded Pacers and the 6th seeded Magic is really anti-climatic. Without Dwight Howard playing, the Pacers would be remiss if they didn't handle this group of Magic quickly. Part of me wishes Dwight was playing just to see if Indiana is actually ready to take a baby step after scaring the Bulls in last years' playoffs.
Pacers: I like this balanced Pacers squad led by Danny Granger, but it's not just him. They have David West resembling the guy before the knee injury, and this team plays defense also. Call me what you want, but I like that Hibbert has made himself into a usable 5 in the league. I would have loved to see him play against Dwight even if it would only be a measuring stick game. The Pacers have enough scorers (George, Barbosa, etc.) and a veteran in George Hill that can help this team in the playoffs.
Who has to step up: David West. Yes, he's the veteran on this team, but West has got to lead the way. Can he get this team past this Orlando squad and ready to play in the 2nd round of the playoffs?
Magic: It's been a year for the Magic. I do have to give them this, they could have folded and gone fishing, but they decided to play and make the playoffs and whether Dwight plays or not, these boys are not going to back down. Ryan Anderson is balling,....literally balling. Orlando can make this interesting but I don't think that they have the weapons to win this series. I can see them winning 2 games, but that's about it.
Who has to step up: Jameer Nelson. Maybe this is the easy person to pick, but a few years back Nelson was BALLING and he made this team that much more dangerous because Dwight was behind him. To say that he has regressed would but a bit of an understatement. If Nelson can find some of that old magic (literally) then the Magic have a chance to take this to 7 games.
Outcome: I got the Pacers in 5.
Pacers: I like this balanced Pacers squad led by Danny Granger, but it's not just him. They have David West resembling the guy before the knee injury, and this team plays defense also. Call me what you want, but I like that Hibbert has made himself into a usable 5 in the league. I would have loved to see him play against Dwight even if it would only be a measuring stick game. The Pacers have enough scorers (George, Barbosa, etc.) and a veteran in George Hill that can help this team in the playoffs.
Who has to step up: David West. Yes, he's the veteran on this team, but West has got to lead the way. Can he get this team past this Orlando squad and ready to play in the 2nd round of the playoffs?
Magic: It's been a year for the Magic. I do have to give them this, they could have folded and gone fishing, but they decided to play and make the playoffs and whether Dwight plays or not, these boys are not going to back down. Ryan Anderson is balling,....literally balling. Orlando can make this interesting but I don't think that they have the weapons to win this series. I can see them winning 2 games, but that's about it.
Who has to step up: Jameer Nelson. Maybe this is the easy person to pick, but a few years back Nelson was BALLING and he made this team that much more dangerous because Dwight was behind him. To say that he has regressed would but a bit of an understatement. If Nelson can find some of that old magic (literally) then the Magic have a chance to take this to 7 games.
Outcome: I got the Pacers in 5.
2012 NBA Playoffs - Miami Heat vs. New York Knicks
Can I say that I love this matchup?!?!?! This the best matchup in the 1st round in the East. We have the expectation heavy Heat taking on a resurgent Knicks squad. There will be fireworks, more likely on the scoreboard than on the court.
Heat: There's LBJ, Wade and Bosh and a few extra pieces, but this Heat team is flawed. They lack a consistent deep threat and they seem to be a team that can't keep it 'on' (their effort) consistently. The Heat's bench hasn't played well, but they are going to have to step up if they want at least one of those championships that this Big 3 promised. Will the NBA MVP, LeBron be just that in the playoffs? This is a dangerous Knicks team that can catch fire on offense so the Heat will have to dial in on defense to wrap this up quickly.
Who has to step up: The Heat Bench. Someone, anyone, step up and give these guys some punch when one of the starters sits.
Knicks: I like this draw for the Knicks. They have Carmelo and Amare and can put up points, but the question will be can they get a stop or two? Tyson Chandler may sit game 1 due to illness, so that will probably put this Knicks team in an 0-1 hole. If Melo gets some help, this team may be able to pull an upset that many outside of NY probably aren't expecting. Although Lin isn't playing the one thing that he started was giving some of these guys confidence and that confidence makes them dangerous.
Who has to step up: JR Smith and Iman Shumpert. I love JR Smith for what he can do. He's a playmaker, can hit shots, and can even play some defense when needed. The problem I have with JR Smith is that sometimes he is out of control. A bad JR Smith means the Knicks are out of here in possibly 5. A good JR Smith means this goes 7. Shump has played ball all year long and he can be a defensive stopper with his length and quickness, so he's gotta cause some problems for either Wade or LBJ on the perimeter.
Outcome: I got the Heat in 6, but there's a chance for the upset in Round 1.
Heat: There's LBJ, Wade and Bosh and a few extra pieces, but this Heat team is flawed. They lack a consistent deep threat and they seem to be a team that can't keep it 'on' (their effort) consistently. The Heat's bench hasn't played well, but they are going to have to step up if they want at least one of those championships that this Big 3 promised. Will the NBA MVP, LeBron be just that in the playoffs? This is a dangerous Knicks team that can catch fire on offense so the Heat will have to dial in on defense to wrap this up quickly.
Who has to step up: The Heat Bench. Someone, anyone, step up and give these guys some punch when one of the starters sits.
Knicks: I like this draw for the Knicks. They have Carmelo and Amare and can put up points, but the question will be can they get a stop or two? Tyson Chandler may sit game 1 due to illness, so that will probably put this Knicks team in an 0-1 hole. If Melo gets some help, this team may be able to pull an upset that many outside of NY probably aren't expecting. Although Lin isn't playing the one thing that he started was giving some of these guys confidence and that confidence makes them dangerous.
Who has to step up: JR Smith and Iman Shumpert. I love JR Smith for what he can do. He's a playmaker, can hit shots, and can even play some defense when needed. The problem I have with JR Smith is that sometimes he is out of control. A bad JR Smith means the Knicks are out of here in possibly 5. A good JR Smith means this goes 7. Shump has played ball all year long and he can be a defensive stopper with his length and quickness, so he's gotta cause some problems for either Wade or LBJ on the perimeter.
Outcome: I got the Heat in 6, but there's a chance for the upset in Round 1.
2012 NBA Playoffs - Chicago Bulls vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Let's get this thing going since the playoffs start today. We'll start with the Chicago Bulls (1) vs. Philadelphia 76ers (8). The one thing that I will say is that the Bulls and the 76ers are both solid teams and this will be a somewhat interesting matchup.
Bulls: Of course, the Bulls are driven by Derrick Rose. I don't want to hear about all of the games that the Bulls won without him due to injury. Without Rose, the Bulls will be sitting with me watching the NBA Finals. There's a fine line in this series, as you want rose healthy but you also need him to get back into his groove. The Bulls play defense, I mean DEFENSE, so they should be in every game in this series even if they sit half of their starting five. I think we all know that the Bulls are going to win this series and it's really aabout how many games it'll take.
Who has to step up: C.J. Watson. If I'm Thibs, he gets a lot of run in this game and I rest Rose. Watson has been solid all year, but has kind of caught fire late in the season for this Bulls team.
76ers: This is what the 76ers wanted. They had a chance to get to the 7th seed and play the Heat, but there was talk that they 'wanted' the easier out by playing the Bulls. Quick question, do they drug test in the NBA? The Sixers started this season playing well, but soon Doug Collins wore on them and they faltered down the stretch. They have a lot of pieces in Lou Williams, Andre Iguodala, Elton Brand and an improved Evan Turner. The odd part is that both the Bulls and the 76ers are deep teams that play as teams.
Who has to step up: Elton Brand, Lou Williams, and Thaddeus Young. Brand has got to go back in the phonebooth and emerge as the old Chicago Bull Elton Brand. The 20 and 10 guy every night he stepped on the court. He's going to have to be a big difference. Lou Williams won't match Rose's play, but he's got to get his teammates some easy buckets. Thaddues Young has got to be a consistent scorer off the bench for this team against that Bulls 2nd unit.
Outcome: I got the Bulls in 5 in this one. Too much Chicago.
Bulls: Of course, the Bulls are driven by Derrick Rose. I don't want to hear about all of the games that the Bulls won without him due to injury. Without Rose, the Bulls will be sitting with me watching the NBA Finals. There's a fine line in this series, as you want rose healthy but you also need him to get back into his groove. The Bulls play defense, I mean DEFENSE, so they should be in every game in this series even if they sit half of their starting five. I think we all know that the Bulls are going to win this series and it's really aabout how many games it'll take.
Who has to step up: C.J. Watson. If I'm Thibs, he gets a lot of run in this game and I rest Rose. Watson has been solid all year, but has kind of caught fire late in the season for this Bulls team.
76ers: This is what the 76ers wanted. They had a chance to get to the 7th seed and play the Heat, but there was talk that they 'wanted' the easier out by playing the Bulls. Quick question, do they drug test in the NBA? The Sixers started this season playing well, but soon Doug Collins wore on them and they faltered down the stretch. They have a lot of pieces in Lou Williams, Andre Iguodala, Elton Brand and an improved Evan Turner. The odd part is that both the Bulls and the 76ers are deep teams that play as teams.
Who has to step up: Elton Brand, Lou Williams, and Thaddeus Young. Brand has got to go back in the phonebooth and emerge as the old Chicago Bull Elton Brand. The 20 and 10 guy every night he stepped on the court. He's going to have to be a big difference. Lou Williams won't match Rose's play, but he's got to get his teammates some easy buckets. Thaddues Young has got to be a consistent scorer off the bench for this team against that Bulls 2nd unit.
Outcome: I got the Bulls in 5 in this one. Too much Chicago.
Monday, April 02, 2012
NYSTOM NBA 6th Man
Who's your NBA 6th Man? I think this is a close race, but I am surprised at who's on the leader board for this one. Maybe the numbers do lie, and right now they seem to be a dayum lie.
NYSTOM, James Harden has got to be THE 6th man of the Year because of the work that he has done and the fact that his team is battling for the top spot in the NBA, not only the Western Conference. He does get a lot of minutes because they are willing to throw him out there, but he's gotta be #1.
Who you got?!?!?!
1. Brandan Wright
|
DAL
|
6.4 ppg
|
3.1 rpg
|
0.3 apg,
|
62.7 FG%
|
14.9 minutes
per game
|
2. Tiago Splitter
|
SAS
|
9.2 ppg
|
5.1 rpg,
|
1.2 apg
|
60.2 FG%
|
19.8 minutes
per game
|
3. James Harden
|
OKC
|
17.1 ppg
|
4.1 rpg
|
3.8 apg
|
49.3 FG%
|
31.9 minutes
per game
|
4. Thaddeus Young
|
PHI
|
12.7 ppg
|
5.1 rpg
|
1.2 apg
|
49.6 FG%
|
28.0 minutes
per game
|
5. Taj Gibson
|
CHI
|
7.8 ppg
|
5.1 rpg
|
0.7 apg
|
50.3 FG%
|
19.8 minutes
per game
|
NYSTOM, James Harden has got to be THE 6th man of the Year because of the work that he has done and the fact that his team is battling for the top spot in the NBA, not only the Western Conference. He does get a lot of minutes because they are willing to throw him out there, but he's gotta be #1.
Who you got?!?!?!
NBA Team Power Rankings
Get your latest NBA Team Power Rankings here. Not too many surprises, although I think that we need the OKC boys a little higher and I'm still not sold on the Magic either.
Who you got??!?!?!?
Through
3/31
|
||||
1
|
42
|
11
|
0.792
|
|
2
|
37
|
13
|
0.740
|
|
3
|
39
|
12
|
0.765
|
|
4
|
29
|
23
|
0.558
|
|
5
|
36
|
14
|
0.720
|
|
6
|
27
|
26
|
0.509
|
|
7
|
30
|
21
|
0.588
|
|
8
|
32
|
20
|
0.615
|
|
9
|
31
|
21
|
0.596
|
|
10
|
32
|
20
|
0.615
|
|
11
|
31
|
23
|
0.574
|
|
12
|
29
|
22
|
0.569
|
|
13
|
30
|
23
|
0.566
|
|
14
|
28
|
24
|
0.538
|
|
15
|
28
|
22
|
0.560
|
|
16
|
24
|
28
|
0.462
|
|
17
|
28
|
24
|
0.538
|
|
18
|
24
|
28
|
0.462
|
|
19
|
27
|
26
|
0.509
|
|
20
|
25
|
28
|
0.472
|
|
21
|
25
|
26
|
0.490
|
|
22
|
20
|
30
|
0.400
|
|
23
|
17
|
35
|
0.327
|
|
24
|
13
|
39
|
0.250
|
|
25
|
19
|
33
|
0.365
|
|
26
|
19
|
35
|
0.352
|
|
27
|
18
|
34
|
0.346
|
|
28
|
17
|
33
|
0.340
|
|
29
|
12
|
39
|
0.235
|
|
30
|
7
|
43
|
0.140
|
Who you got??!?!?!?
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