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. 

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. 

The Nets Strike Back

Well, the Nets lost out on Carmelo, but that set back didn't last long.  The Nets have agreed to a trade with the Utah Jazz and the Golden State Warriors that will give the Nets Deron Williams.  The breakdown of the trade is below.

Utah Jazz
Get: Derrick Favors, Devin Harris, and draft picks (2 1st rounders)

Golden State Warriors
Get: Troy Murphy

New Jersey Nets
Get: Deron Williams, Brandan Wright, and Dan Gadzuric

My take on New Jersey:  Wow!!!! I guess this is what you do when you're a little desperate.  I say that because Williams can opt out at the end of his contract in 2012 and can't sign an extension until July 12, 2011.  The NBA will probably be locked out until the new collective bargaining agreement can be ironed out.  Brandan Wright is intriguing because he's been buried on the Warriors bench, but should get some run if Avery lets him touch the floor.  Dan Gadzuric retired a year or two ago, right?  (Joke).  On the floor, I love Williams' game because he is a complete point guard and is often in the conversation as one of the best in the game.  Brook Lopez probably had a wet dream this morning, just thinking about how much easier his job will now will become with a bonafide PG.   If Williams thought Sloan was tough, he's definitely going to be at war with the Little General too. If Williams walks at the end of 2012, this would be a HUGE disaster.  

My take on Golden State:  They gave up two guys that didn't play and turned him into another PF that can rebound.  This guy is essentially David Lee without the ability to score as well.  Murphy has an expiring contract so at the worst case, this will be a salary dump.  If Murphy was taller, this would have to be defined as a coup.  Hey, at least he's well rested so running with the Warriors shouldn't be an issue.

My take on Utah:  Something going on in Utah and I'm not sure what it is.  Are they concerned that they would have to go through what the Nuggets went through this year with Melo or are they looking at it like they had another LBJ scenario on their hands?  Derrick Favors is a good big that can probably play well in that system, but that system will definitely have to change with the departures of Sloan, his #1 in charge, and Williams.  You'd have to say that the Nuggets did a pretty good job with the handling of Melo and got way more than the 2 compensatory picks that the Cavs and the Raptors received with LBJ and Bosh leaving.  Big men are in high demand in the league and especially those that have a high upside.  But if that were the case, the question has to be is Williams worth trading Favors?  I guess we'll find out.

Who got beat?  Was this a response to the Knicks trade?  Has the East gotten better?  What in the halibut is going on here?  

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Update:  The Warriors are planning on buying out Troy Murphy and all signs are set for him to sign with Orlando once that happens.  That gives Orlando another rebounder and someone who is rugged enough to stand up to the bullies in the East. 

Sloan Leaving?!?!?

From our friends at espn.com.  


Jerry Sloan will resign as coach of the Utah Jazz on Thursday, according to media reports in Salt Lake City.
Sloan, who signed a one-year contract extension on Monday, said the team is planning a news conference for 5 p.m. ET on Thursday to discuss his future with the team. He did not offer further details, the Salt Lake Tribune reported.
Television station KSL first reported on its website that Sloan and assistant coach Phil Johnson planned to announce their resignations.

The rest of the story can be found here:  http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=6109031

Interesting.  He just signed an extension for an additional year on Monday and now he's out.  I want to hear the real story on this one.  We'll see what the fallout is from this.  

UPDATE:  Looks like Ty Corbin will be appointed Head Coach.  

NBA 2010 12-8-10 Wrap Up

Denver @ Boston - The Celtics are moving along without all of the controversy and notoriety that you see in LA and Miami, and that's just where they want to be.  Without Carmelo playing the Nuggets could keep up with the Celtics despite a big game from Ty Lawson (24 pts, 7 asts, 2 rebs, 3 stls, in 34 minutes) off the bench.  The Celtics were paced by Jesus Shuttlesworth (Ray Allen) and his effortless shooting (28 pts, 5 rebs, and 4 asts).  When you add in Rondo (13 asts), Garnett (17 pts, 9 rebs), and Pierce (17 pts, 3 rebs, 4asts) you can easily see why this is the team to beat in the East come playoff time.  Other than an almost altercation between Nene and Big Baby (I'm sure someone will get a fine for that one) and KG's brief discussion with George Karl after the game (about Garnett's cancerous statement to Charlie Villanueva) this was pretty much a no contest.  Next up for the Celtics are the 76ers and for the Nuggets the Knicks. 


Chicago @ Cleveland - Are we all just piling on the Cavaliers?  The Bulls went in to Cleveland and came from behind to beat a game Cavs team.  As usual, Derrick Rose (29 pts, 8 asts, 4 rebs) along with Joakim Noah (13 pts, 14 rebs) led the Bulls as Carlos Boozer (4 pts, 3 rebs) had a stinker in his old Cleveland home.  Just for a second, imagine this,......Boozer and LBJ in Cleveland with Big Z, and some shooters around them.  That's exactly what the Cavs needed, but as we all know, that is just a dream.  The Cavs were led Antawn (don't call him Antwan) Jamison (21 pts, 6 rebs) but the Cavs bench (8 pts on 3 of 15 shooting) wasn't able to make a shot for the majority of the night.  The Cavs are 7-15 and it's looking real bad (if it wasn't already) for this franchise.  Note to Clevelanders, yes LBJ left, the WAY he did it was wrong, but if you want to blame someone, start looking Dan Gilberts' way.  He is the owner and should have had a plan on what to do if/when LBJ left.  AND, if LBJ was all of the things that Gilbert said he was (after LBJ left) then he definitely should have had a plan in place for life after LBJ.  Just my two cents.  Up next for the Bulls, the Lakers.  For the Cavs, they get to play the Houston Rockets.     


Los Angeles Lakers @ Los Angeles Clippers - Derek Fisher!!!  The Lakers ran into a rather pesky bunch of young Clippers last night.  The Clippers were the more physical team and they also showed just how athletic they are when they have Jordan (9 pts, 11 rebs) and Griffin (16 pts, 11rebs) on the floor together.  In the end, the young bunch fell to the old men on a last second layup by Derek Fisher.  Not sure if Bledsoe (11pts, 7 asts, 4 rebs) forgot but Fisher (6pts, 4 rebs, 2 asts, 2 stls) is a lefty, who likes driving left, and Bledsoe played his right hand with time ticking away.  Kobe (24 pts, 4asts, 2 rebs) led the way for the Lakers with an efficient 9 of 15 shooting preformance (5 of 7 from the line).  The Lakers are still the cream of the crop in the NBA, but they may have some trouble with this Clippers team when they play them again.  Quietly, Shannon Brown (16 pts, 5 rebs, 2 asts, 1 stl, in 17 minutes) has become a very reliable scorer, defender, or whatever this team needs off the bench.  Could you imagine him in a Bulls uniform?  The Bulls are up next for the Lakers and the Clippers get the Grizzlies next. 


Miami @ Utah - I'm not going to jump on the Heat bandwagon like everyone else (I've actually never gotten off) as everyone writes stories about the team gelling, but they did look good last night and they will get better.  I've said this before, once they get Chalmers (8 pts, 3 asts, 2 rebs, 2 stls, +16 when he's on the floor) back to playing like he was last year and put Arroyo (0 pts, 1 to, 1 stl in 23 minutes) back on the bench and they get Miller back (with a fully healed wrist) that this team will be dangerous.  LBJ (33 pts, 9 asts, 7 rebs, on 12 of 20 shooting) and Wade (28 pts, 4 rebs, 4 asts on 9 of 14 shooting, 8 of 11 from the line) played well together last night and even some of the Jazz players were saying that they might be close to putting it all together.  Utah got an impressive performance from Deron Williams (21 pts, 12 asts, 4 rebs, 1 blk), but it wasn't enough as the Heat held on late for a 13 point win.  Moose, the Heat have won 6 in a row and you've gotten WAY too quiet.  The Heat will run with the Warriors in their next game and the Jazz get Orlando (coming off a back to back). 

NBA 2010 Wrap Up 11-10-10

Washington 98 @ Houston 91 – Two big stories, Yao Ming got hurt and John Wall (19 pts, 10 rebs, 13 asts, 6 stls) had his first NBA triple double.  Both Andray Blatche and Al Thornton had 20 pts, as the Wizards ran up and down the floor.  It seemed as if Wall was everywhere making steals, passes, and even finishing an alley-oop from Gilbert Arenas.  Kevin Martin (31 pts, 7 rebs, 6 asts) and Luis Scola (24 pts, 6 rebs) led the Rockets, but with Yao going down, it really hurt their size advantage.  Wall became the 4^th youngest to get his first triple double and the Washington area fans are expecting a few more of these.      

Golden State 122 @ New York Knicks 117 – David Lee returned to the Garden and received a warm reception during introductions.  Lee would later receive a piece of Wilson Chandlers tooth in his elbow, but left the Garden after dropping 28 pts, 10 rebs, and 4 asts and leading his Warrior team to a win.  In an odd play, Lee got a rebound and brought his elbow down and chipped Chandler’s front tooth.  Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry combined for 47 pts, 8 rebs, and 14 asts.  Stoudamire led the Knicks with 33 pts and 10 rebs, but the Knicks weren’t able to keep up with the Warriors at the end.  The Knicks only got 11 points from their bench (Tone Douglas had 9 pts), and as usual D’Antoni has no chance to stop anyone on the defensive end.    

Minnesota 98 @ Sacramento 89 – We had a Micheal Beasley sighting.  Beasley had by far his best game as an NBA player with a 42 pts and 9 rebs outing against the Kings.  With really no other scoring threat on the floor the Timberwolves were able to get this win with the second leading scorer on the team being PG, Sebastian Telfair who had 16 pts and 1 ast.  If you can play point guard you might want to call the Timberwolves right now!!!!  The Kings had subpar games from Tyreke Evans (5 pts, 9 asts, 5 to) and DeMarcus Cousins (7 pts, 6 rebs, 4 to in 14 minutes).  Omri Casspi led the Kings with 17 pts (in 27 minutes) and I just have to question why no extra time for Casspi and Cousins wince they seemed to be playing well? 

Utah 104 @ Orlando 94 – Maybe they can move the Jazz to the East?  The Jazz finished their stroll through the sunshine state with a comeback from 22 to beat the Heat and then a comeback win from 18 last night, to beat the Magic.  Somehow the Jazz were able to turn it on once they get down.  They were led by Deron Williams with 30 pts, 14 asts, and 5 rebs.  Both Al Jefferson (21 pts, 8 rebs) and Paul Milsap (23 pts, 5 rebs, 3 asts) dominated the Magic frontcourt to spark the comeback.  As a group they were able to minimize Dwight Howard’s (14 pts, 9 rebs, 4 asts, 3 blks, 6 to) effectiveness and force the Magic to take 32 threes while only hitting 12.  The next team that plays the Jazz might just want to let them stay in the game late and then try and beat them. 

Where does Melo go?

Carmelo Anthony is doing his best to force his way out of Denver.  He can opt out of his contract at the end of the upcoming year and we all know he won’t be winning any titles in Denver anytime soon.  Today there is speculation that there is a 4 team deal that will bring Melo to the Nets.  We’ll take a look at that proposed deal and talk about other possible teams that are interested in the Denver Nuggets star.

Proposed Trade:

New Jersey Nets get – Carmelo Anthony (DEN)

Charlotte Bobcats get – Devin Harris (NJN)

Utah Jazz get – Boris Diaw (CHA)

Denver Nuggets get – Derrick Favors (NJN) and Andrei Kirilenko (UTA) plus picks

Fallout:

New Jersey Nets – You give up your point guard in Harris and you give up your prize rookie for Carmelo.  What is a top 5 NBA player worth?  Maybe that’s the better question.  If you make this move, you are essentially the Denver team of the East.  You could compare the two easily:  B. Lopez/Nene (even), T. Murphy/Andersen (Nets), A. Morrow/J.R. Smith (even, lean Nets), J. Farmar/C. Billups (slight edge to Nuggets).  For what you’re giving up, I think the Nets have to make this move.

Charlotte Bobcats – You get to give up Boris Diaw who’s desire has been openly questioned?  And you get Devin Harris at really the same money?  Done!!  Do this deal today and twice on Sunday.  You get a point guard (distributor), which is something that this team has needed for years.  If this deal happens, I can imagine that Shaun Livingston may be shown the door.  

Utah Jazz – You get Boris Diaw who’s desire has been openly questioned, but who happens to also be a great facilitator for a big man.  The system that the Jazz run is more closely in line with the type of player they’ll get.  On top of that the Jazz will get $5M.  That’s not part of the deal, it’s just that Kirilenko’s salary is presently putting the Jazz in luxury tax threshold.  Taking away AK’s $17.8M from the Jazz and they will save about $5M and get the $5M payout.  For a small market team, $5M is $5M.  Do this deal today.

Denver Nuggets – You lose Carmelo, but you get more than what the Cavs got for LBJ.  You get Favors, a young big that can be your power forward of the future and you pair him with Nene and that’s something to build on.  Add Kirilenko, and you have an expiring contract that you can use to bring in a point guard after you do Billups a favor and trade him out of Denver too.  You’ll also get picks, probably from Charlotte and the Nets.  Do the deal. 

Other possible destinations:

Chicago Bulls – This one is pretty much dead with the Bulls not wanting to include Noah in the deal.  I for one can’t blame them.  Noah is their emotional leader and the Bulls should be pretty good without Melo.  But, Melo is arguably a top 5 NBA talent. 

Los Angeles Clippers – Chris Kaman and some change for Melo?  I think that Nene and Kaman would be duplicating big men, but it’s available for the taking.  This works very well for the Clippers if they only gave up Kaman and some small change or picks. 

Where do you think Melo should go?  Should he just ride it out in Denver and then pick his new team, ala LBJ?  Or should he try and get his new deal now under the present collective bargaining agreement (more money)?     

2010 NBA Playoffs - Eastern Conference Recap

Caavaliers vs. Bulls (Cavs 1 - 0)

Well, LeBron promised the Bulls a different kind of animal during these playoffs, but I think he was really referring to himself. What the Bulls saw was vintage Shaq (only for a short period of time, 24 mins). Shaq stole the show early as he showed all of us that you can turn back the hands of time, at least for a while. Shaq said he went on the 'Uncle Jerome' diet which dropped him 20 lbs, and he looked good running up and down the court. The rest of the Cavs contributed, with Mo Williams leading the pack (of everyone not named LBJ) with 19pts and 10 asts. The Cavs did make several lapses and allowed the Bulls back in this game late, but they were able to finally close the door.

Celtics vs. Heat (Celtics 1 - 0)

This turned out about how many of us thought it would. The Heat ran out to an early lead but the Celtics finally decided to play some basketball in teh 4th quarter. Wade pretty much had his way for 3 quarters of the game, doing what ever he wanted and keeping his teammates involved. Things got a little chippy between the two teams when Paul Pierce was bumped near the Heat bench and seemed to hurt his shoulder. KG came over to check on his fallen teammate and Quentin Richardson said he was coming over to take the ball out of bounds. KG shot Q an elbow and then another elbow shortly thereafter. This ended up being a a lot of pushing and shoving but KG was thrown out of the game and could face a suspension. That would really change the playoffs for the Celtics. One good thing for the Celtics was the game Tony Allen played. He played pretty good defense on Wade, but he also was able to put up 14 points.

Hawks vs. Bucks (Hawks 1 - 0)

Well, this started off as a blowout of monumental purposes. Then Brandon Jennings, well actually Jennings kept the Bucks in this game then entire time but couldn't get any helop from his teammates until it was too late. Jennings ended the game with 34 pts, two short of tying the rookie playoff record set by Derrick Rose last year against the Celtics. The Hawks were hitting from everywhere and everyone contributed, in the first half. At halftime Jennings was single handedly keeping the Bucks within 20 (yes, 20). Jennings had 20 pts and no one else on his team had more than 4 pts. The Bucks were able to get back in the game by getting some stops and finally John Salmons was able to contribute, but in the end the Hawks and a surprising performance by Mike Bibby got the win.

Nuggets vs. Jazz (Nuggets 1 - 0)

I don't know who to feel sorry for here. The Nuggets are without their head coach, and the Jazz lost Memhet Okur in the 1st quarter of this game to a possible achilles tendon tears/rupture. The one thing I do know is that the Jazz started strong with CJ Miles setting the tone with a dunk early in the game, but the Jazz ran out of gas and able bodies at the end. The Nuggets seemed to not really want to play in the first half last night. The Jazz hit them in the mouth and they just seemed to be ok with it. In the 3rd, Melo woke up and decided that he needed to start scoring. Melo ended the game with 42 and the Nuggets rolled to a 1-0 series lead. The Jazz are really in trouble, I mean really.

Who ya got? NBA Playoffs 2010 - Western Conference

Well, the regular season is done and there’s nothing left to do but look at the playoff brackets and dream. The season seemed to end on a sour note with a lot of teams experiencing injuries to their important players on their team. Other teams may have over thought this thing and rested some of their key players while at the same time enduring a small losing streak here and there. We’re going to take a look at the playoffs and see where it takes us.

Western Conference – Round 1

Lakers vs. Thunder

Not too many teams have looked as out of sync as the Lakers as of late. With Kobe ailing (where are his legs?), Fisher injured, Vujacic injured, Bynum returning (hopefully) from injury, and Farmar with a hammy that could go at any time, the Lakers are playing the part of the wounded hero. We all know that the Lakers were the odds on favorite with the addition of Artest, but now, not so much. Kobe looks like he needed the 2 game break he got at the end of the season, but the Lakers just aren’t plain playing well. We know that Kobe should be able to turn it on, but the big question is whether Bynum can come back and play decent ball and whether the other injuries are going to hurt the Lakers. We’ll see.

The Thunder come in as one of the darling teams in the NBA. By that I mean they weren’t supposed to be here. They were the young team with a lot of talent, but they played ahead of their curve. Kevin Durant has been the catalyst for them by scoring at will, but this team also has Jeff Green (a do it all forward), Russell Westbrook (a good on the ball defender), and a host of guys willing to play their roles. Phil Jackson has already started working the refs in his favor, evidenced by his $35K fine for what he said about the refs giving Durant all the calls. This is the big stage for the Thunder, their opportunity to shock the world. As healthy as they are and as hungry as they are, they have more than a fighting chance.

Series Roundup – I want an upset, I’m thinking it’ll be an upset, but then reality sets in. Prediction: Lakers in 7.

Nuggets vs. Jazz

The Nuggets come into the playoffs struggling also. They can at least attribute their struggles to their coach being out fighting cancer. This team is too talented to not be at the least in the Western Conference Finals. It’s the same crew with Billups, Melo, and Nene. Add to them, the speedy Ty Lawson, the never gun shy J.R. Smith, Kenyon Martin (recovering from a knee injury), and the crowd favorite, the Bird Man. I think the window for these Nuggets is closing and that may add some pressure to the expectations that many have as the team that can dethrone the Lakers in the West. Now is the time to step it up Denver.

The Jazz are suffering from their own pains. Carlos Boozer went down with an oblique strain that will probably not get better during the playoffs and Andrei Kirilenko’s calf isn’t allowing him to play. The Jazz still have Paul Milsap who can produce like Boozer, but they really need AK. I like the fact that Deron Williams has played well of late and he in his own groove. The Jazz always play a physical game and that may be to their benefit against a Nuggets team that doesn’t have their enforcer (Martin) really ready to step up to the plate. Look for CJ Miles to play an important role in this series if the Jazz are to win.

Series Roundup – Can I just watch the first game to see who wins to pick this series? Denver has home court, but something is telling me to pick the Jazz.

Prediction: Nuggets in 6.

Mavericks vs. Spurs

This will be interesting. The Mavericks have played some of the best basketball since the All-Star break. Caron Butler is starting to find his way in this rotation, Haywood is giving them a much needed offensive presence in the paint, Kidd looks 30 again, Shawn Marion playing good defense, and you still got Dirk. I didn’t even mention Jason Terry, who is quietly the compass for this team. As he goes, so go the Mavericks. The Mavericks were supposed to end up around the 4th seed but they have used defense to help them get to that second spot in the West. The Spurs have really been a thorn in the Mavericks side in the past and this year, I think the Mavericks are ready.

The Spurs have been battling injuries coming into this game. George Hill sprained an ankle and may not be able to come back for the 1st round of the playoffs, Tony Parker is coming back from an injury, Tim Duncan is fighting off father time and bad knees, and we all know that Ginobili is one falling down awkward shot from being out of the series. I am surprised that Richard Jefferson hasn’t been more of a force with this team, but he is starting to come on now that Ginobili is back. DeJuan Blair has been some beef that has been welcomed by everyone, but specifically Tim Duncan. This team is solid as they always are and they are playing well at this juncture.

Series Roundup – This is going to come down to defense for the Mavericks. Can they stop this Spurs team when they need to and can they keep Ginobili from going bonkers? The Spurs get older each year, but like wine they seem to get better with age. Prediction: Mavericks in 6.

Suns vs. Trial Blazers

That’s Amar’e!!! Talk about someone who has done the most with what he has and has thereby increased (well, he’s getting a max deal regardless next year) his value, Stoudamire has caught fire since playing his way into shape. He has led the Suns on a streak that has gotten the Suns to the #3 spot in the West. Steve Nash and Grant Hill look at least 3 years younger and the Suns have enjoyed getting Barbosa back from a wrist injury. The only downside is that they are going to lose their big man, Robin Lopez for at least the first round and possibly the entire playoffs. He’s not spectacular but he does have a good motor and plays well next to Amar’e. Replacing him is one of the Collins twins (are they both still in the league?), but I hope that we’ll see more Channing Frye or even a sighting of Earl Clark (where has he been?).

Let me get myself together for a second (grabs rabbit feet, lucky charms, the Bible, some holy water, brought in my pet unicorn, caught a falling star, threw about $20 in a wishing well, and grabbed some horse shoes), the Blazers lost another player to injury. Brandon Roy tore his meniscus and will have surgery and will miss at least the 1st round of the playoffs. The Blazers have lost at least 300+ games due to injury. Even with all of that the Blazers have performed this year and are the #6 seed in the West. Nate McMillan should have some COY votes strictly on that alone. The Blazers are a balanced squad and they can play defense with the best of them. They were able to shut Kobe down towards the later part of the season with Batum and Webster taking turns. They will struggle to score a lot without Roy, but don’t’ count these Blazers out just yet. Look for the veteran big men Camby and (gulp) Howard to play a big role in their success.

Series Roundup – Can anyone stop the Suns from rolling? I expect the Blazers to slow this thing down and make the Suns play half court or it’s over. Prediction: Suns in 6.

Catching Up with the Western Conference

Yes, it's been a few days since I talked about the NBA playoffs, but let's just catch up with the Western Conference since the first round is basically over.

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Utah Jazz

Did we expect anything different? We knew that Kobe wasn't going to allow the Lakers to play around for too long. They are at home now and they should be watching the Nuggets play and they should be getting worried. The Lakers still haven't shown me their want to play defense. That may hurt them in the future. My take on the series was 4-1 Lakers, and it ended 4-1.

Denver Nuggets vs. New Orleans Hornets

I don't know how you lose a game by 58 when you have a chance to get back in your series and you are playing at home. I think the Hornets just quit. They lost all of their mojo in a year. Last nights game sealed. They at least made it a game but Melo finally gets to the 2nd round of the playoffs. My take on the series was 4-2 Nuggets, but it ended 4-1.

San Antonio Spurs vs. Dallas Mavericks

The Spurs are just old. I don't think that this is the end of an era, but the Spurs have to retool, somehow. Duncan needs a young beast in the paint like he was to David Robinson and some help on the wing (which I thought Udoka would be able to provide, but he hasn't done that yet). We'll see if Pop can do something to spruce up this team. Dallas was the better team in this series and they showed it. This is the scary team that may cause Denver some problems. My take on the series was 4-2 Mavericks, but it ended 4-1.

Portland Trailblazers vs. Houston Rockets

This is the most exciting series in the West. The Blazers are showing their youthful side as they seem to play every other game. They haven't been able to consistently win the matchups that they should win (LaMarcus Aldridge, that means you against Scola), but they are only down 3-2 and they get a chance to go into Houston tonight to try and even the series. The Rockets are playing extremely well, without T-Mac. They are one game away from getting out of the 1st round of the playoffs. That would be a success but again another knock on T-Mac since they would have done it without him. Yao is showing that he is the most consistent big man in the league and possibly the best. I had the Blazers winning this series 4-3, so the Blazers have a lot of work to do.

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Utah Jazz

This game picked up where Game 1 ended. When will some defense be played in this series? The Lakers started off this game by shooting 63%. The only thing that makes that a little questionable is that the Jazz shot 60% from the floor. The Lakers were led by their big 2, Kobe (26 pts, 9 asts, 6 rebs) and Gasol (22 pts, 6 rebs, 2 blks), but they ended up with 7 players in double figures. Lamar Odom was the biggest part of that bench with 19 pts. The layups and dunks that the Lakers got early in this game was ridiculous. It's like a grown man playing against a 10 yr old.

The Jazz, just don't have it. As I watched this game, at no point did I say to myself, the Jazz have a chance. Deron Williams (35 pts, 9 asts, 4 rebs, 4 stls,2 blks) had another great game and Boozer (20 pts, 10 rebs, 2 stls) contributed too, but the Jazz really have no chance. Unless,....they just start beating people up. Most Jazz teams of the past (yes, Karl Malone and John Stockton are somewhere crying) would have NEVER let the Lakers get that many open looks in the paint without drawing blood. This team, by it's coach's admission isn't nasty enough. With Okur out, they can't stretch the floor and that really highlights the limitations of this team (no one outside of Korver or Williams can hit a 3) and makes it easy to guard them. I hope the Jazz have at least one win in them.

Key facts:

- Shannon Brown has taken Jordan Farmar's spot in the rotation. Brown contributed 12 pts off the bench and has played solidly on both sides of the ball. This may have been a steal for the Lakers.

- Kobe is still showing patience and this is doing nothing but helping the Lakers. As you watch the game, you can tell that Kobe could take over at any moment, but he waits patiently to do that. 7 Lakers in double digits shows how much he has bought in to trusting his teammates.

This one is pretty much over. Call me when some blood is drawn or some heart is shown by the Jazz. What is your take on this one?

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Utah Jazz

After the Lakers watched the Cavaliers destroy the Pistons, I know that they wanted to come out and make a statement against the Jazz. Statement made. The Lakers came out with a balanced attack and went on to beat the Jazz. Derek Fisher picked up two early fouls and Shannon (no Van Gundy, not Chris Brown) Brown came in and played mostly mistake free ball. Between Brown (9 pts, 3 asts, 2 rebs, and 1 stl) and Trevor Ariza (21 pts, 4 rebs, 2 asts) all of the x-factors came through for the Lakers. Kobe had 24pts, and Gasol had 20 pts and 9 rebs (before fouling out) and the game never really seemed to be in reach for the Jazz after halftime. They got the lead down to 9 but never really threatened from there.

The Jazz came out and played horriawful. No, that's not really a word but it explains how they played. Boozer (27 pts, 9 rebs, 2 stls, 2 asts) and Williams (16 pts, 17 asts, 3 rebs) both had great stat lines, but that was it. The Jazz were down, made a run but couldn't get over the top. The second half of this game got a lot more physical than the first which is in the Jazz's favor. I don't know what they can do win this series, other than make it a slugfest.

Key facts:

- Kobe really let his team play and put up numbers and didn't force anything. When the Lakers are playing like this, it's dangerous.

- I loved Matt Harpring at Georgia Tech, but it seems as though his game is really just more of a hackman (I know that's harsh) with a jumper. Yes, he plays hard and you like to see that, but I expected more out of this guy.

Do the Jazz have a chance? Is this series going to become more of a fight than a basketball series from here on out?

NBA Playoffs - Western Conference First Round

We already talked about the Eastern Conference First Round matchups, so let's get to the West. This year, we had a run for the best record in the NBA between the Lakers and the Cavs, but the Lakers came up a little short. They'll have to be happy with being the #1 seed in the West.

Los Angeles Lakes vs. Utah Jazz

The Lakers have played ball all year long, and then the moment that almost had people jumping off bridges, Andrew Bynum tore up his knee. Everyone in La La Land remember how the Celtics just out manned the Lakers last year in the Finals and there was worry to go around. A few weeks ago, Bynum returned and showed us all why the Lakers didn't trade him for Jason Kidd. With Bynum ready to go, the Lakers look headed for a showdown with the Cavaliers. They should have any problems in the playoffs.

The Jazz kind of limped in to the playoffs and they are looking great at home, but they can't win on the road. With Deron Williams and Carlos Boozer, this team should be picking and rolling their way to the conference finals, but they meet the Lakers in round 1. The rest of the Jazz team is actually good and part of me could say that the Jazz could (I'm not saying will), but they could give the Lakers problems in the first round. There are Jazz fans out there that have to have hope (Eric, that's for you), but in the end, the Jazz shouldn't pack for anything longer than a first round playoff series.

Series Winner - Lakers 4-1

Denver Nuggets vs. New Orleans Hornets

Denver comes into this series riding high. After acquiring Chauncey Billups and getting Kenyon Martin back in the fold, the Nuggets are ready. They have a point guard that can get the ball to their scorers (Melo, JR Smith, and Nene) and this team finally decided to play some defense. I know a lot of people want to give George Karl a lot of credit, but I think that Billups should get as much as Karl. This is a scary Nuggets team.

The Hornets are winning despite all of their issues. They have lost both Tyson Chandler and David West for extended periods of time during the season. West has returned and is playing well, but Chandler is just coming back and by his own admission, his toe is about 70%. That does not bode well for a team that isn't as deep as they were last year and is facing a stacked Nuggets team that can score. Chris Paul will again have to carry this team if they are going to make it past the first round.

Series Winner - Nuggets 4-2

San Antonio Spurs vs. Dallas Mavericks

The Spurs come in hoping that Tim Duncan's knees aren't sore. He has played through pain over the last few games of the season, but the Spurs will need him to win this series. Tony Parker has carried the Spurs for the majority of the year and should have garnered some MVP votes in my estimation. This is the same crew, minus Ginobli (out for the season), and a little older. It's time for the Spurs to restock this team on the wings. They will struggle in this first round.

The Mavericks are balling a little bit. Jason Kidd looks like he's found the 'Fountain of Youth' and Dirk is getting back into that form that had him in line for an MVP a few years ago. Josh Howard is stepping up and they are getting production, or at least defense from their bench. They've been somewhat under the radar for the entire year. Look for Jason Terry to have a big series for the Mavs.

Series Winner - Mavericks 4-2

Portland Trailblazers vs. Houston Rockets

The Trailblazers are led by do everything Brandon Roy, but they are a deep team. I mean real deep. This team can play 10 players each game and the guys coming off the bench are just as good as the starters. LaMarcus Aldridge (don't the Bulls wish they would have kept him instead of Tyrus Thomas?), Greg Oden, Rudy Fernandez, Travis Outlaw, and crew will definitely cause the Rockets problems during this series. They have enough big bodies to play Yao and enough young guys to run and score.

The Houston Rockets made it this far without Tracy McGrady and not many people thought they would. Yao has stepped up and more importantly hasn't gotten hurt this year. When you add that to a behaving Ron Artest, and a surprising supporting cast in Aaron Brooks, Chuck Hayes, Carl Landry, and Kyle Lowry, you see how the Rockets were able to overcome the loss of McGrady. I think this will be the stage where the Rockets realize that they need that go to scorer and I don't see Artest being that guy on a night in night out basis. This will definitely be an exciting series.

Series Winner - Trailblazers 4-3


What's your take? Who are you rooting for? Can the Jazz give the Lakers any problems?

NBA: Top 5 Teams in the Western Conference

Well, more has happened since our post on the Top 5 Teams in the Eastern Conference, but I think we pretty much know how the Western Conference is broken down. Let's go ahead and hit it.

1. Los Angeles Lakers (7-1) - Dominant. Outside of the loss to the Pistons the other night, the Lakers have been great. They continue to dominate games in waves. We all know that they are lead by the best player in the game, Kobe Bryant, but they can go almost 12 deep. The size of Andrew Bynum has been a great add because it allows Gasol to play the 4 and moves Odom to the 6th man. They still have Trevor Ariza, Vlad Radmanovich, Jordan Farmar, Sasha Vujacic, and Luke Walton who hasn't worked himself back into the lineup yet. This team is odds on to be in the Finals this year, but it will come down to Odom yet again. Does he embrace his 6th man role, or does he let it get to him and become a cancer/trade bait before the break?

2. Utah Jazz (6-4) - Yes the Suns have a better record, but let's wait to get to them. The Jazz are quietly starting the year the same way they normally do. They beat people and then they win the basketball game. This team stumbled a little with the injury to Deron Williams, but he is now getting back into shape. They also got Matt Harpring back and that goes back to my 'beat people and then they win the basketball game' line earlier. These guys normally don't have too many big injuries that require people to be out substantial parts of the season so I expect them to always be in it and battle for the Western Conference title. I have never been much of a Jazz fan, but the newer version of Stockton to Malone (Williams to Boozer) is going to help them make some waves. 3 point shooting will be their Achilles heel.

3. Phoenix Suns (8-3) - The Big Cactus has found the fountain of youth, or at least a reasonable facsimile. Shaq has played this year with a vengeance that the Suns hope can last. They are also giving the Big Cactus days off on back to back games, which should help. Amare Stoudamire looks unstoppable. He has developed that mid range jumper and we all know what he does when he gets it to the rim. The fact that he looks interested in playing defense scares me, because he could be more of a beast than he is if that ends up panning out. The same cast, Nash, Grant Hill, Leandro Barbosa, Raja Bell, and Boris Diaw are playing well. The season will hinge on Boris Diaw and Matt Barnes. So far so good with Barnes, he's a Shawn Marion light kind of player (a little defense, a little scoring, a little running, and a little dunking). Boris Diaw has got to realize that he can't be covered and demand the ball. If a fire is lit under him, constantly, for the year, the Suns will have some smooth sailing.

4. Denver (6-4) - With the addition of Chauncey Billups, I see this team playing a lot better. Billups provides that calming influence at the point and someone that can get the scorers the ball when and where they need it. All of the bigs on Denver (Nene, Kenyon Martin, Linus Kleiza, Chris Andersen) have played better with a real point guard on the floor. This team has to find a way to play some defense and convince JR Smith that he is a good 3 point shooter, but he can be much more of a weapon if he starts taking the ball to the rack a little more. This is the team to watch. If they stay healthy, they could be a team that you don't want to see during the playoffs.

5. Houston (6-4) - This new Big 3 (Artest, McGrady, Yao) hasn't translated into domination as of yet but it can work. If this team stays healthy, a big if with any team that has Yao and T-Mac, they are going to be one of the top 3 teams in the West. Artest gives them that banger and hard nosed guy, or 'street cred' that they have needed in the past. They have the depth at guard but not in the pivot, unless you're talking about bringing a lot of 6' 8" to 6' 9" guys off the bench to player center. The biggest surprise thus far has been the play of Aaron Brooks who, despite his lack of size, is the fearless leader off the bench for the Rockets. They've also done all of this without Shane Battier who is still mending from ankle surgery. This team has to work on gelling and praying that injuries don't derail their attempt at a title.

Did your team make the top 5? If not should they have? Let your voice be heard.

NBA Tidbits

There is speculation that Karl Malone may come back to the Utah Jazz. No, not to finally get a ring, but to come in as an assistant coach to mentor some of the youngins. But many of us have seen Karl over the years and he's not one for the limelight, which this type of job would entail. Plus, Karl has a few skeletons in his closet that I'm sure he doesn't want brought back up in the public eye.
Phoenix Suns send DJ Strawberry to the Rockets for Sean Singletary. The Suns need a backup point guard and I think that Singletary can give them some minutes behind Nash. He's small, fast, and he can probably score in that uptempo race that they have in Phoenix. I think he'll be a detriment on D because of size, so if the second unit runs the floor, the kid will be good. Strawberry gives the Rockets an extra mid size forward. Not sure if he'll even get a uniform. They're both ACC products, so I have to root for them.
Darius Miles has a make good contract with the Boston Celtics. Outside of the ban that he'll have to face at the beginning of the season, I hope the kid has grown up and has enough health to play. I'm not sure how well he fits with the Celtics, other than providing some kind of scoring punch off the bench. He's never been known as a defensive specialist and a person with bad knees doesn't all of a sudden decide to bend them to get into a defensive stance. We'll see how this one turns out. There are already conspiracy theorists out there.
The Grizzlies are thinking about acquiring Zach Randolph from the New York Knicks. They are only willing to part with Darko and some change. There's a question about whether Randolph fits their needs and wants? I mean if you want a big man who only loves the left block, that can give you 20 and 10 a night, that won't play defense, but is young enough to change, and all for a measly $13M - $15M a year, then get Randolph. I'd probably do it if I only have to give up Darko and 3 ham sandwiches. The Grizzlies are also thinking about sending a point guard to Portland for Travis Outlaw.
Fresh off of getting his Gold medal with Team USA, Kobe Bryant is figuring out when he should get that troublesome pinkie operated on. Kobe, it's just me, but the sooner the better, right?!?!
And finally, straight out of the 'I could understand how you feel, man' file. Stephen Jackson has put the Warriors on notice that he wants to get paid. Since everyone else on the team has been paid, Jax feels that based on what he brings to the team that he shouldn't go into next season being only the 5th highest paid player on the team. We know that an unhappy Jax is not a good Jax. Chris Mullin, open your wallet again.