I’m not sure what happened, but this week started well and then just went into the tank. I guess the underlying theme of Week 1 is wait until Week 2 before we start playing. Oh and another thing, let’s make sure that it’s not close to have a referee decide a game. Let’s get the tale of the tape.
Minnesota @ New Orleans – After an aggressive first drive for the Saints, this turned out to be a yawner. Not much excitement on either side of the ball, and each team seemed a little rusty to say the least (maybe there is an argument for an 18 game season). The Saints won, but I imagine that both teams will be better over the remainder of the season. Just one questions popped out during this game, I know Peterson had 19 carries, but this is game one of the season, why not give him 25? He didn’t put the ball on the ground. Sounds like Chilly is over coaching already. Inquisitive Mind 1 – 0 for the week.
Carolina @ New York Giants – We all knew that the Panthers had no chance in this one, but it just took the Giants a little while to wake up. Eli had 3 INTs to go along with 3 TDs, but we all know that the ground game will be the key for the Giants this year. And, I said it, Clausen will be the starter by week 3. After that hit that Moore took, we’re one step closer. Inquisitive Mind 2- 0 for the week.
Atlanta @ Pittsburgh – Talk about crying in your beer. This was a slugfest. The Steelers stopped the Falcons ground game and the Falcons stopped the Steelers air attack (yes, limited with Dixon back there). This came down to 3 things: 1) Polamalu’s pick in the 4th. The announcers were saying a great call by Dick LeBeau, no way. Polamalu jumped that route after he saw White catching it all day long. Beautiful play to get his toes in. 2) Jeff Reed’s two missed field goals (and one with the win on the line?) and lastly 3) Atlanta, is this all you got on offense? I mean Ryan can’t throw that deep out every 7th play and hope that it works and no running game to speak of. Falcons, you let me down. Also, I love it when I’m right about Ward. Inquisitive Mind 2 – 1 for the week.
Cleveland @ Tampa Bay – Maybe the Panther fans were right to laugh when I mentioned the best QB in this game being Delhomme. He proved that he’s a decent QB, but oh my goodness he is mistake prone. Freeman looked decent and the defense showed glimpses of years past. The Bucs snuck one out. Inquisitive Mind 2 – 2 for the week.
Denver @ Jacksonville – I’m going to go out on a limb and say this is the best game that Garrard has played in 2 maybe 3 years. The Jaguars had a balanced attack and the defense was teeing of on Orton like he was a piñata. Denver might be in trouble. Orton can’t keep taking hits like that. Inquisitive Mind 2 – 3 for the week.
Indianapolis @ Houston – The Texans beat the Colts. I think everyone in Houston is still partying. Yes, it’s the first game of the year, but 231 yards rushing by Arian Foster and a good/great defensive unit spells good things for the Texans. Even with Manning throwing for 433 yards (a career high) and having a 109 QB rating, this game wasn’t as close as the final makes it seem. If the Texans can play like this all year, that AFC South is going to be interesting. Inquisitive Mind 3 – 3 for the week.
Miami @ Buffalo – Somebody had to win this game and the Dolphins just eeked it out. Not much else to say. If you watched this game, I apologize for the 2 ½ hours of your life you won’t get back. Inquisitive Mind 4 – 3 for the week.
Detroit @ Chicago – WHEW!!!! What in the halibut is going on here? I’m sorry, this was a loss for the Bears. Johnson caught that pass and was getting up when he lost the ball. I’m waiting on the NFL to review this one. Bears fans have a lot to be happy about: 1) a win is a win 2) Urlacher played pretty well and didn’t get hurt 3) and they may have found their #1 receiver in Matt Forte (well, this is really a joke). Forte rushed for 50 yards and had another 151 yards in the air. How can Lovie be so arrogant? Doesn’t he know that he has exactly 15 more games to be the head coach of the Bears? Inquisitive Mind 5 – 3 for the week.
Oakland @ Tennessee – Can I take get a do over on this one? Yes, I used big IFs earlier but the Raiders looked horriawful, with the exception of Darren McFadden. He did prove that he can carry the full load (even if only for one game). The Titans will end up a lot better than some guessed if they can play like this the rest of the year. VY had a decent game and only had 17 attempts, while Chris Johnson did his work. Inquisitive Mind 5 – 4 for the week.
Cincinnati @ New England – If this game were another 2 quarters long,……the Bengals didn’t start playing football until after halftime. You can’t do that and expect to win at Gillette Stadium. Wes Welker looked good in his return to the big stage and I’m still trying to find how Ochocinco had 12 receptions for 159 yards. Did I turn the channel or something? Maybe the Bengals will wake up and start playing now. Inquisitive Mind 5 – 5 for the week.
Arizona @ St. Louis – How quickly the mighty have fallen. It’s going to be a long year for the Cardinals if they are going to play like this. Both teams looked horriawful, but one of them was a few inches from a Superbowl two years ago and the other team was starting a rookie QB and if you watched the game, you couldn’t have picked which team was which. Bradford might actually be the real deal. Inquisitive Mind 6 – 5 for the week.
San Francisco @ Seattle – I bet you a dollar to a donut that no one on that 49ers team slept well last night. They probably won’t sleep at all this week. They looked worse than horriawful. 2 field goals is all they could get? From a 49ers standpoint, I point to one stat line: 26 of 45 for 225 yards and 2 INTs. Alex Smith, please pack your bags. Happy to see Hasselbeck play well since he’s been beaten up so much the last few years. I wonder if the NCAA would take some of Pete Carroll’s money he made as coach of USC because he knew guys were cheating (old bone to pick)? Are the Seahawks for real is the question? I guess we will know if about 3 more weeks. Inquisitive Mind 6 – 6 for the week.
Green Bay @ Philadelphia – I never root for anyone to get hurt, but I have to say that Kolb playing the way he did and leaving the way he did is ‘KARMA’. You don’t get rid of McNabb just because. Kolb sustained a concussion right before halftime (hopefully he’ll be ok) and then we got Mike Vick. The pack played well, but may have lost Ryan Grant for a significant time after the injury to his ankle. Brandon Jackson more than filled his shoes while Aaron Rodgers was throwing to just about everyone all day long. I guess we’ll have to see if Andy Reid was right by saying that ‘Kolb is his QB when he’s healthy again’. Inquisitive Mind 6 – 7 for the week.
Dallas @ Washington – You’ve got to be kidding me?!?!??!? This came down to a final play with the Cowboys throwing a TD and they lose. Somewhere, Daniel Snyder is smiling so hard his face is cracking. If the Cowboys don’t get an O-line and soon, all of this home team for the Superbowl stuff isn’t going to happen. Which Cowboy coach made that play call before the half? He should be cleaning the all the bathrooms in the new Cowboys Stadium. The Redskins snuck this game away from the Cowboys, but a win is a win. Inquisitive Mind 6 – 8 for the week.
Baltimore @ New York Jets – This was a smash mouth game that should have been a joy to watch for those that appreciate defense (and some bad offense). The Jets brought all of the bravado but no offense to speak of. I doubt they completed a pass for more than 10 yards at any one time. The Ravens defense, led by Ray Lewis smothered and hit the Jets all night. Shonn Greene may not touch the ball for a week or two after letting it hit the ground so much last night. In the end, the better offense won. Flacco to Boldin looks like a good pairing. Is it me or does Flacco always seem to throw off of his back foot? The scary thing is that both teams will get better. Bad omen for the Jets is that they may have lost Kris Jenkins for an extended period of time. Inquisitive Mind 7 - 8 for the week.
San Diego @ Kansas City – This is reason #4080 that Norv is NOT the coach that the Chargers need. This was a loss to the Chefs (still the funniest commercial ever). The Chargers looked lackadaisical and not ready for football. The Chiefs didn't really have that much on offense and they still won. If anything I was surprised that the Chiefs defense is actually starting to look like a unit. Great kick return by rookie Dexter McCluster. Great upset by the Chiefs. Inquisitive Mind 7 - 9 for the week.
Well, that's Week 1 down and I think that I'm happy it's over. A 7-9 record is not how you want to start the season, but hey, we have a long way to go. I'm not too far off of the professionals.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
NFL 2010 Week 1 Picks
Here we go,….Week 1 of a new season. Let’s see if we can’t start the year off with a bang.
Thos are my picks, who you got?
Are You Ready?????
Well, it’s that time of year again. You can smell it in the air,….it’s football time!!!! We here at MeltingPotThoughts aren’t big NCAA Football fans, but when the NFL starts, it’s on. As usual, I will be updating you guys on my Fantasy Football squad (the Cold Ones) and I’ll also be picking against the ESPN Football panel on a weekly basis. In previous years I’ve done a pretty good job, but hey, I need a new career so I’m in this to win it. Each week, I’ll give you my picks for the week and some brief commentary, while you all get to tell me if I’m crazy or not. You'll also get a wrap up each week so we can see how well I actually did against the professionals. I might even try to get our resident basketball Stat Guy, NYSTOM, to work on some formulas to help you with Fantasy Football. I’m looking forward to a great year this year and hopefully you’ll come along for the ride. Enjoy!!!!!
P.S. – If you win money off my picks, I want half of the winnings. If you lose, you shouldn’t be betting anyway.
Monday, August 09, 2010
Luck of the Hoosier?
Well, it’s happened again. Isiah Thomas has been hired by the New York Knicks. Take a moment, and yes we haven’t Hot Tub Time Machined back a few years. Thomas, who is presently the head coach at FIU, has been hired as a consultant for the Knicks by his former boss James Dolan. This story has so many angles, I’m not sure where to start. Maybe right here:
- The last time Zeke worked for the Knicks it cost them $11.6M for Anucha Browne Sanders. No she doesn’t play for the Liberty, she just happened to be someone that Zeke sexually harassed.
- Zeke gave out several terrible cap limiting deals that further hurt the organization: Eddy Curry, Jerome James, and Jared Jeffries come to mind.
- As a coach for the Knicks they ended up firing him because the team was terrible under him and at one point they told him to not even speak with Knicks players.
I guess my biggest question is how does this happen? Zeke has only been able to do one thing and that is find talent. So how does he go from being lambasted out of NY and then right back into NY on a cushy deal? Some people say that Zeke was instrumental behind the scenes with getting A’mare Stoudamire to come to NY in the off season ($100M would have done that) even though his pitch to LBJ didn’t work. Maybe he found a way to look good to Dolan again and thus this signing. With the present GM, Donnie Walsh, possibly heading off into the sunset in 2 years, has Zeke been promised the GM position again? For New York fans, I hope not.
The next biggest thing is where is the NCAA? With this position Zeke is allowed to recruit for FIU and the Knicks, all in one fell swoop? Who is he representing when he walks in the door? This could mean higher recruits might find their way to FIU knowing that Zeke has a pipeline, that all of us can see, directly to the NBA. This reeks of something unfair and I’m waiting for David Stern or the NCAA to nix this whole thing. If this passes the muster, I imagine that the Lakers will be reaching out to (insert your favorite college basketball coach) Coach K for a similar kind of engagement. The possibilities would be endless.
What’s your take on this move? Does it make sense? How did HE get a job with the Knicks again?
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Free Agent Signings?
Well, that time is upon us and the free agency period for the NBA is almost over with the biggest FA, LeBron, announcing this Thursday night his intentions. While I care, I wonder how they can make this an hour long segment and his business team is selling advertising. Now, the dollars will go to the Boys and Girls Club, but nevertheless, LeBron may be too important. But, I digress. Let’s take a look at the signings that have already occurred and we’ll give you our take on them.
Joe Johnson, Atlanta Hawks – 6 years / $119M
This has got to be THE worst deal of the free agency period. Joe Johnson has essentially robbed the Atlanta Hawks without even having a gun. There was no team out there that was going to give Johnson the max especially after how he performed, or didn’t perform in the playoffs this past year. After the Hawks extended this offer, Johnsons’ camp was saying that he was still going to look at other opportunities, yeah right.
Darko Milicic, Minessota Timberwolves – 4 years / $20M
How can a guy who was for all intents and purposes on his way back to Europe with a bag of money and no chance to play in the NBA again, end up with a 4 year deal for $20M? Even Kevin McHale doesn’t make this deal, not ever. Another bad deal that baffles most people. Darko has height, but no heart, but he might have a chance to play more if the Timberwolves move Al Jefferson.
Drew Gooden, Milwaukee Bucks – 5 years / $32M (Years 4 and 5 are partially guaranteed)
I am a little torn on this one. The Bucks got rid of Dan Gadzuric and that’s a good thing because after Kurt Thomas, the Bucks had no big men to come off the bench. Gooden is anything but spectacular and that’s probably what Coach Skiles wanted for this team. He’s a veteran that has played a lot of minutes but has always been consistent. Good pickup but I wonder if they paid to much to get him.
Rudy Gay, Memphis Grizzlies – 5 years / $80M
Wow, the Grizzlies actually opened their wallets. It just may have been for the wrong person. I like Gay and the upside that he brings, but they are going to have to get the right coaches and help him grow into the player that they are paying him to be. I almost think that the Grizzlies should have let him walk and found a way to build their team like the Thunder have.
Amir Johnson, Toronto Raptors – 5 years / $34M
The former Detroit Piston will get a lot more playing time with the impending loss of Chris Bosh, but this contract is based on upside. He averaged about 6 pts and 5 rebs last year with the Raptors. If that’s the case and I use my Jerry Stackhouse math (half of Jordan’s production equaled half of Jordan’s salary ($30M) for Stackhouse), Rudy Gay is underpaid severely.
Channing Frye, Phoenix Suns – 5 years / $30M
One of those, ‘had to do it’ situations. The Suns were going to lose A’mare because they weren’t interested in maxing him out (smart move). Frye is a 7 foot 3 point shooter not named Nowitzki. This deal is reasonable, but they did over pay a little to make sure that they didn’t lose him. Can someone teach him a post move is my only question?
John Salmons, Milwaukee Bucks – 5 years / $39M
What is a 17 point a game scorer worth? Especially when Michael Redd’s knees are very much in question? This looks like a decent deal on the face. It’s about $8M a year and they also traded for Maggette and signed Gooden, so he’ll have some extra scoring to help him. Salmons has shown flashes in the past two playoffs and he should get some more rest and a whole lot more money in this situation.
Hakim Warrick, Phoenix Suns – 4 years / $18M
For some reason, this deal seems okay to me. No he hasn’t shown much yet and he’s still has to be put in the right situation for him to flourish, but going to Phoenix will help. He has to learn how to finish better in traffic, but he’s an athlete that can run the floor and make the easy buckets that he’ll get from Nash setting him up. He doesn’t replace all of what A’mare does, but he brings some of A’mare to the Suns.
Steve Blake, Los Angeles Lakers – 4 years / $16M
Derek Fisher, if you don’t take this $1.5M or $2M deal, pack your bags. We thank you for everything that you’ve done for the Lakers. This is THE BEST deal outside of one of the Big 3. Blake is a point guard who can hit a three and play defense, and a savvy vet that will be a great addition to this Lakers team. Somehow they find ways to get better. If they bring Fisher back, it continues to get better.
Paul Pierce, Boston Celtics – 4 years / $61M
Another ‘had to do it’ scenario. Pierce is Mr. Celtic (for our era) and there were rumblings that this might not happen because of non-guarantees in year 4. Bringing Pierce back at a reduced rate helps the Celtics, along with the retirement of Rasheed Wallace, to make maybe one more run at a title before it’s time to close the chapter on this team. Doc is back, Perkins is hurt, and Ray Allen is still undecided, so look for this team to make some more moves.
Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas Mavericks – 4 years / $80M
I thought Dirk would have taken a little less for the hometown discount, but hey, get your money while you can. Not sure how much flexibility this contract gives the Mavs, but Dirk was Cuban’s guy and he paid him. Dirk also garnered the second no-trade (Kobe was the first) clause in the league because of his tenure with the team.
A’mare Stoudemire, New York Knicks – 5 years / $100M
We knew someone would pay for A’mare and we knew that it would probably be the Knicks who may have struck out with LeBron. A’mare has two knees that have had several surgeries and a detached retina that requires him to wear goggles now. I understand the Suns hesitancy on maxing A’mare out, but the Knicks had to make a splash. Reuniting A’mare with his old coach from Phoenix will probably be a good thing, but that team is really depleted.
Joe Johnson, Atlanta Hawks – 6 years / $119M
This has got to be THE worst deal of the free agency period. Joe Johnson has essentially robbed the Atlanta Hawks without even having a gun. There was no team out there that was going to give Johnson the max especially after how he performed, or didn’t perform in the playoffs this past year. After the Hawks extended this offer, Johnsons’ camp was saying that he was still going to look at other opportunities, yeah right.
Darko Milicic, Minessota Timberwolves – 4 years / $20M
How can a guy who was for all intents and purposes on his way back to Europe with a bag of money and no chance to play in the NBA again, end up with a 4 year deal for $20M? Even Kevin McHale doesn’t make this deal, not ever. Another bad deal that baffles most people. Darko has height, but no heart, but he might have a chance to play more if the Timberwolves move Al Jefferson.
Drew Gooden, Milwaukee Bucks – 5 years / $32M (Years 4 and 5 are partially guaranteed)
I am a little torn on this one. The Bucks got rid of Dan Gadzuric and that’s a good thing because after Kurt Thomas, the Bucks had no big men to come off the bench. Gooden is anything but spectacular and that’s probably what Coach Skiles wanted for this team. He’s a veteran that has played a lot of minutes but has always been consistent. Good pickup but I wonder if they paid to much to get him.
Rudy Gay, Memphis Grizzlies – 5 years / $80M
Wow, the Grizzlies actually opened their wallets. It just may have been for the wrong person. I like Gay and the upside that he brings, but they are going to have to get the right coaches and help him grow into the player that they are paying him to be. I almost think that the Grizzlies should have let him walk and found a way to build their team like the Thunder have.
Amir Johnson, Toronto Raptors – 5 years / $34M
The former Detroit Piston will get a lot more playing time with the impending loss of Chris Bosh, but this contract is based on upside. He averaged about 6 pts and 5 rebs last year with the Raptors. If that’s the case and I use my Jerry Stackhouse math (half of Jordan’s production equaled half of Jordan’s salary ($30M) for Stackhouse), Rudy Gay is underpaid severely.
Channing Frye, Phoenix Suns – 5 years / $30M
One of those, ‘had to do it’ situations. The Suns were going to lose A’mare because they weren’t interested in maxing him out (smart move). Frye is a 7 foot 3 point shooter not named Nowitzki. This deal is reasonable, but they did over pay a little to make sure that they didn’t lose him. Can someone teach him a post move is my only question?
John Salmons, Milwaukee Bucks – 5 years / $39M
What is a 17 point a game scorer worth? Especially when Michael Redd’s knees are very much in question? This looks like a decent deal on the face. It’s about $8M a year and they also traded for Maggette and signed Gooden, so he’ll have some extra scoring to help him. Salmons has shown flashes in the past two playoffs and he should get some more rest and a whole lot more money in this situation.
Hakim Warrick, Phoenix Suns – 4 years / $18M
For some reason, this deal seems okay to me. No he hasn’t shown much yet and he’s still has to be put in the right situation for him to flourish, but going to Phoenix will help. He has to learn how to finish better in traffic, but he’s an athlete that can run the floor and make the easy buckets that he’ll get from Nash setting him up. He doesn’t replace all of what A’mare does, but he brings some of A’mare to the Suns.
Steve Blake, Los Angeles Lakers – 4 years / $16M
Derek Fisher, if you don’t take this $1.5M or $2M deal, pack your bags. We thank you for everything that you’ve done for the Lakers. This is THE BEST deal outside of one of the Big 3. Blake is a point guard who can hit a three and play defense, and a savvy vet that will be a great addition to this Lakers team. Somehow they find ways to get better. If they bring Fisher back, it continues to get better.
Paul Pierce, Boston Celtics – 4 years / $61M
Another ‘had to do it’ scenario. Pierce is Mr. Celtic (for our era) and there were rumblings that this might not happen because of non-guarantees in year 4. Bringing Pierce back at a reduced rate helps the Celtics, along with the retirement of Rasheed Wallace, to make maybe one more run at a title before it’s time to close the chapter on this team. Doc is back, Perkins is hurt, and Ray Allen is still undecided, so look for this team to make some more moves.
Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas Mavericks – 4 years / $80M
I thought Dirk would have taken a little less for the hometown discount, but hey, get your money while you can. Not sure how much flexibility this contract gives the Mavs, but Dirk was Cuban’s guy and he paid him. Dirk also garnered the second no-trade (Kobe was the first) clause in the league because of his tenure with the team.
A’mare Stoudemire, New York Knicks – 5 years / $100M
We knew someone would pay for A’mare and we knew that it would probably be the Knicks who may have struck out with LeBron. A’mare has two knees that have had several surgeries and a detached retina that requires him to wear goggles now. I understand the Suns hesitancy on maxing A’mare out, but the Knicks had to make a splash. Reuniting A’mare with his old coach from Phoenix will probably be a good thing, but that team is really depleted.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
2010 NBA Draft Recap (Picks 21-30)
Oklahoma City – Craig Brackins (Traded to Hornets)
A big that can score, that’s exactly what the Hornets needs. Brackins needs to just get a little more consistent. He can rebound, score, and runs the floor pretty well. Great pick for the Hornets as they continue to build around CP3.
Portland Trailblazers – Elliot Williams
Hmmmm,….I don’t understand this pick. I guess he fills a need if they have to part ways with Rudy Fernandez, but other than that the Trailblazers are stacked at guard. Williams is a big guard that can play both positions and can easily get to the basket against most guards (doesn’t this sound like Jerryd Bayless?), but he loves that deep 3 just a bit too much for me. Really wish he would have stayed at Duke another year or two.
Minnesota Timberwolves – Trevor Booker (Traded to Wizards)
Like this pick because this guy has a motor and he’s a beast on the boards. He’s long as all get out and he’s still working n his offensive game. The hustle might get him on the floor quickly in Washington.
Atlanta Hawks – Damion James (Traded to Nets)
I think that he can make the switch from 4 to 3, but he’s going to have to work on his handle. He may end up hurting a small forward because he is physical. He may help the scoring load and get some minutes from Yi Jialin.
Memphis Grizzlies – Dominique Jones (Traded to Mavs)
Jones is a scorer with the ability to get to the hole and get his shot on most. He’s 6’5” but makes up for it with his long arms. Another player that’s ready to play from Day 1.
Oklahoma City Thunder - Quincy Pondexter (Traded to Hornets)
Well, it looks as though the Hornets are getting slashers to go around CP3, when will they get some shooters?
New Jersey Nets – Jordan Crawford (Traded to Hawks)
Since Jamal Crawford will be starting (expecting JJ to leave) the next best thing is to bring in a Crawford clone. Introducing Jordan Crawford, no relation. He’s a scorer that ought to help the Hawks off the bench.
Memphis Grizzlies – Greivis Vasquez
I don’t yet know how to describe his game, but passion is the word that many use. He’s not a smooth player, but he gets the job done. I think that his height will help him in the half court, although he will have problems guarding people, but the Grizz are going to have to run to get their money our ot Vaquez.
Orlando Magic – Daniel Orton
Sometimes it’s best to go late in the first round. Orton will be able to play backup minutes and you can put both he and Gortat on the floor together. We’ll see was 3pts and 3 rebounds per game does in the NBA.
Washington Wizards – Lazar Hayward (Traded to Timberwolves)
Not sure what to say. The last pick of the first round. Mr. Hayward, you have a guaranteed contract.
A big that can score, that’s exactly what the Hornets needs. Brackins needs to just get a little more consistent. He can rebound, score, and runs the floor pretty well. Great pick for the Hornets as they continue to build around CP3.
Portland Trailblazers – Elliot Williams
Hmmmm,….I don’t understand this pick. I guess he fills a need if they have to part ways with Rudy Fernandez, but other than that the Trailblazers are stacked at guard. Williams is a big guard that can play both positions and can easily get to the basket against most guards (doesn’t this sound like Jerryd Bayless?), but he loves that deep 3 just a bit too much for me. Really wish he would have stayed at Duke another year or two.
Minnesota Timberwolves – Trevor Booker (Traded to Wizards)
Like this pick because this guy has a motor and he’s a beast on the boards. He’s long as all get out and he’s still working n his offensive game. The hustle might get him on the floor quickly in Washington.
Atlanta Hawks – Damion James (Traded to Nets)
I think that he can make the switch from 4 to 3, but he’s going to have to work on his handle. He may end up hurting a small forward because he is physical. He may help the scoring load and get some minutes from Yi Jialin.
Memphis Grizzlies – Dominique Jones (Traded to Mavs)
Jones is a scorer with the ability to get to the hole and get his shot on most. He’s 6’5” but makes up for it with his long arms. Another player that’s ready to play from Day 1.
Oklahoma City Thunder - Quincy Pondexter (Traded to Hornets)
Well, it looks as though the Hornets are getting slashers to go around CP3, when will they get some shooters?
New Jersey Nets – Jordan Crawford (Traded to Hawks)
Since Jamal Crawford will be starting (expecting JJ to leave) the next best thing is to bring in a Crawford clone. Introducing Jordan Crawford, no relation. He’s a scorer that ought to help the Hawks off the bench.
Memphis Grizzlies – Greivis Vasquez
I don’t yet know how to describe his game, but passion is the word that many use. He’s not a smooth player, but he gets the job done. I think that his height will help him in the half court, although he will have problems guarding people, but the Grizz are going to have to run to get their money our ot Vaquez.
Orlando Magic – Daniel Orton
Sometimes it’s best to go late in the first round. Orton will be able to play backup minutes and you can put both he and Gortat on the floor together. We’ll see was 3pts and 3 rebounds per game does in the NBA.
Washington Wizards – Lazar Hayward (Traded to Timberwolves)
Not sure what to say. The last pick of the first round. Mr. Hayward, you have a guaranteed contract.
2010 NBA Draft Recap (Picks 11-20)
New Orleans – Cole Aldrich
Safe pick. Aldrich can hit a medium range jumper, he can rebound, and although he may not be the most athletic guy on the court, I like what he does. He should be able to play the PF spot at times. He put up decent numbers playing with a shoot first point guard, so just imagine what he’ll do with Chris Paul.
Memphis Grizzlies – Xavier Henry
A little of a reach, well, maybe not a reach but Henry didn’t show us his game until the latter part of the year. He brings additional scoring to a team that lacks wing scoring (yes, OJ is in the backcourt). He’s a Kansas project and they normally turn out to be decent players, so I expect that Henry will work out well in Memphis.
Toronto Raptors – Ed Davis
I liked this guy last year and I watched a lot of ACC ball. I will say this, I thought that Deon Thompson was more polished of the two big men at UNC, but Davis just oozed of potential. He’s long, he’s athletic, but a little on the thin side. He’s in the mold of a Chris Bosh kind of guy, so the Raptors won’t start at ground zero when Bosh walks.
Houston Rockets – Patrick Patterson
Love this pick. Yes, Patterson is a little bit of a tweener (6’9”, 240 lbs), but he’s a player that can come in and play day 1. He showed that he has an inside and outside game and good basketball sense.
Milwaukee Bucks – Larry Sanders
Decent pick for the Bucks. Definitely a big that can run with Maggette and Jennings. Still working on his game on the offensive side, but a decent pick none the less.
Minnesota Timberwolves – Luke Babbitt (Traded to Blazers)
Good shooter who can stretch the floor. The issue is whether he’ll be able to guard someone in the NBA. He’s too small to guard a 4 and too slow to guard a 3. Gotta find a system for him to play in. He’ll be a good bench player for the Blazers that can provide scoring off the bench.
Chicago Bulls – Kevin Seraphin
A French guy named Kevin, that should say it all. He’s a pick for the Wizards (from the Kirk Hinrich trade) that will stay over in Europe for a while. Not very polished, but could come into his own in a few years. I think this was too high for Seraphin, but the Wizards are building a team so they can afford stash him for a while.
Oklahoma City Thunder – Eric Bledsoe (Traded to Clippers)
Great pick for the Thunder (what?), well not the Thunder, Bledsoe was traded to the Clippers. Good pickup and good combo guard. Maybe this means that the Clippers are expecting Steve Blake to walk this summer. We’ll see if Bledsoe can make the transition to PG in the NBA.
Boston Celtics – Avery Bradley
A big combo guard that can hopefully give Rondo a breather every now and then. He can also fill in that shooter role, to some extent, if Ray Allen leaves. Hopefully the Celtics keep this pick, although he may not ever see the home locker room in Beantown.
San Antonio Spurs – James Anderson
A scorer and slasher that can offset some of what you may lose as Ginobli gets older/hurt. He’s a bigger guard that could possibly guard some 3’s in the league. Definitely someone that can come in and play right away. He’ll have some good coaching in Pop.
Safe pick. Aldrich can hit a medium range jumper, he can rebound, and although he may not be the most athletic guy on the court, I like what he does. He should be able to play the PF spot at times. He put up decent numbers playing with a shoot first point guard, so just imagine what he’ll do with Chris Paul.
Memphis Grizzlies – Xavier Henry
A little of a reach, well, maybe not a reach but Henry didn’t show us his game until the latter part of the year. He brings additional scoring to a team that lacks wing scoring (yes, OJ is in the backcourt). He’s a Kansas project and they normally turn out to be decent players, so I expect that Henry will work out well in Memphis.
Toronto Raptors – Ed Davis
I liked this guy last year and I watched a lot of ACC ball. I will say this, I thought that Deon Thompson was more polished of the two big men at UNC, but Davis just oozed of potential. He’s long, he’s athletic, but a little on the thin side. He’s in the mold of a Chris Bosh kind of guy, so the Raptors won’t start at ground zero when Bosh walks.
Houston Rockets – Patrick Patterson
Love this pick. Yes, Patterson is a little bit of a tweener (6’9”, 240 lbs), but he’s a player that can come in and play day 1. He showed that he has an inside and outside game and good basketball sense.
Milwaukee Bucks – Larry Sanders
Decent pick for the Bucks. Definitely a big that can run with Maggette and Jennings. Still working on his game on the offensive side, but a decent pick none the less.
Minnesota Timberwolves – Luke Babbitt (Traded to Blazers)
Good shooter who can stretch the floor. The issue is whether he’ll be able to guard someone in the NBA. He’s too small to guard a 4 and too slow to guard a 3. Gotta find a system for him to play in. He’ll be a good bench player for the Blazers that can provide scoring off the bench.
Chicago Bulls – Kevin Seraphin
A French guy named Kevin, that should say it all. He’s a pick for the Wizards (from the Kirk Hinrich trade) that will stay over in Europe for a while. Not very polished, but could come into his own in a few years. I think this was too high for Seraphin, but the Wizards are building a team so they can afford stash him for a while.
Oklahoma City Thunder – Eric Bledsoe (Traded to Clippers)
Great pick for the Thunder (what?), well not the Thunder, Bledsoe was traded to the Clippers. Good pickup and good combo guard. Maybe this means that the Clippers are expecting Steve Blake to walk this summer. We’ll see if Bledsoe can make the transition to PG in the NBA.
Boston Celtics – Avery Bradley
A big combo guard that can hopefully give Rondo a breather every now and then. He can also fill in that shooter role, to some extent, if Ray Allen leaves. Hopefully the Celtics keep this pick, although he may not ever see the home locker room in Beantown.
San Antonio Spurs – James Anderson
A scorer and slasher that can offset some of what you may lose as Ginobli gets older/hurt. He’s a bigger guard that could possibly guard some 3’s in the league. Definitely someone that can come in and play right away. He’ll have some good coaching in Pop.
2010 NBA Draft Recap (Picks 1-10)
Washington Wizards - John Wall
Great pick. Wall will come in run this Wizards team. Now the organization has to find a way to make Gilbert Arenas sane. He should be able to be the face of the organization and he’s known that ever since the lottery was complete.
Philadelphia 76ers – Evan Turner
I think that the Sixers got it right. Since Turner and Iggy play the same position, but this goes back to the Bulls/Blazers thing. Do you pick Jordan when you already have Drexler? I’m not saying that Turner is Jordan, but the Sixers got this pick right. I am expecting Brandon Roy Part II. Iggy pack your bags.
New Jersey Nets – Derrick Favors
Good pick again. Favors comes from a long line of GT big men (in their own ways), Dennis Scott, Chris Bosh, James Forrest (look him up if you don’t know, before the shoulder injury), etc. I expect Favors to become a better version of Chris Bosh. His body reminds you of a younger Dwight Howard but he already has an offensive game better than Howard. He should work well with Brook Lopez.
Minnesota Timberwolves – Wesley Johnson
By many, Johnson is the most NBA ready SF out there. He has range and that’s something that the Timberwolves need, since they ranked in the bottom of 3 point shooting in the league last year. Corey Brewer will be able to play the 2 for defensive purposes and Johnson can start at the 3. Without Kevin McHale there, the Timberwolves are making some good decisions. Now if they can only convince Rubio to come and play in Minny.
Sacramento Kings – DeMarcus Cousins
I hope that the real player hasn’t shown up yet. Cousins has shown an immature streak at times, but he brings it on the court. I’m hoping that he’s the next ‘Double D’ Darryl Dawkins and not the next Oliver Miller. If he shows up and plays the Kings finally have a center they can get 20 and 10 out of each night.
Golden State – Epke Udoh
Not sold on this one. I mean Udoh had a great year last year, but I think the Warriors needed someone that complements their system. They really needed Greg Monroe at this spot but I understand the downside to him also. Udoh will be a hustle guy and should help Bierdrins on the floor with defense, but on offense it’ll be another story.
Detroit Pistons – Greg Monroe
Monroe has all the tools you’d want in a big man. He can pass, he can score, he can rebound, and he can even play a little defense. The one thing that I question about him is his desire. It looks like he’s happy with the accolades that he gets from everyone knowing he has all the tools. When Joe Dumars said that he wanted to get back to an edgier Pistons team, I just don’t see how this pick fills that need. Good player, but will he play all the time for the Pistons?
Los Angeles Clippers – Al-Farouq Aminu
Wow, this is 3 in a row. Aminu hasn’t really shown me much. I liken him to a (gulp) different version of Darius Miles. Aminu is a tweener but he doesn’t have a defined offensive game. He’s an athlete that runs and jumps and can rebound. If he doesn’t develop an offensive game, this will be a wasted pick.
Utah Jazz – Gordon Hayward
Good fit. Hayward showed in the title game that he’s athletic enough and he can shoot and in Utah’s offense, you’re going to have to guard him. He’s tough and I think that he’ll thrive in this system with Sloan coaching. Add in the fact that he won’t be the 1st or 2nd option on this team and he could possibly be in the running for ROY if he gets the playing time.
Indiana Pacers – Paul George
Is this the writing on the wall for Danny Granger? I mean George will play the same position as Granger. The Pacers really need a point guard, so maybe this is a pick for someone else. Otherwise, George should be a great asset off the bench.
Great pick. Wall will come in run this Wizards team. Now the organization has to find a way to make Gilbert Arenas sane. He should be able to be the face of the organization and he’s known that ever since the lottery was complete.
Philadelphia 76ers – Evan Turner
I think that the Sixers got it right. Since Turner and Iggy play the same position, but this goes back to the Bulls/Blazers thing. Do you pick Jordan when you already have Drexler? I’m not saying that Turner is Jordan, but the Sixers got this pick right. I am expecting Brandon Roy Part II. Iggy pack your bags.
New Jersey Nets – Derrick Favors
Good pick again. Favors comes from a long line of GT big men (in their own ways), Dennis Scott, Chris Bosh, James Forrest (look him up if you don’t know, before the shoulder injury), etc. I expect Favors to become a better version of Chris Bosh. His body reminds you of a younger Dwight Howard but he already has an offensive game better than Howard. He should work well with Brook Lopez.
Minnesota Timberwolves – Wesley Johnson
By many, Johnson is the most NBA ready SF out there. He has range and that’s something that the Timberwolves need, since they ranked in the bottom of 3 point shooting in the league last year. Corey Brewer will be able to play the 2 for defensive purposes and Johnson can start at the 3. Without Kevin McHale there, the Timberwolves are making some good decisions. Now if they can only convince Rubio to come and play in Minny.
Sacramento Kings – DeMarcus Cousins
I hope that the real player hasn’t shown up yet. Cousins has shown an immature streak at times, but he brings it on the court. I’m hoping that he’s the next ‘Double D’ Darryl Dawkins and not the next Oliver Miller. If he shows up and plays the Kings finally have a center they can get 20 and 10 out of each night.
Golden State – Epke Udoh
Not sold on this one. I mean Udoh had a great year last year, but I think the Warriors needed someone that complements their system. They really needed Greg Monroe at this spot but I understand the downside to him also. Udoh will be a hustle guy and should help Bierdrins on the floor with defense, but on offense it’ll be another story.
Detroit Pistons – Greg Monroe
Monroe has all the tools you’d want in a big man. He can pass, he can score, he can rebound, and he can even play a little defense. The one thing that I question about him is his desire. It looks like he’s happy with the accolades that he gets from everyone knowing he has all the tools. When Joe Dumars said that he wanted to get back to an edgier Pistons team, I just don’t see how this pick fills that need. Good player, but will he play all the time for the Pistons?
Los Angeles Clippers – Al-Farouq Aminu
Wow, this is 3 in a row. Aminu hasn’t really shown me much. I liken him to a (gulp) different version of Darius Miles. Aminu is a tweener but he doesn’t have a defined offensive game. He’s an athlete that runs and jumps and can rebound. If he doesn’t develop an offensive game, this will be a wasted pick.
Utah Jazz – Gordon Hayward
Good fit. Hayward showed in the title game that he’s athletic enough and he can shoot and in Utah’s offense, you’re going to have to guard him. He’s tough and I think that he’ll thrive in this system with Sloan coaching. Add in the fact that he won’t be the 1st or 2nd option on this team and he could possibly be in the running for ROY if he gets the playing time.
Indiana Pacers – Paul George
Is this the writing on the wall for Danny Granger? I mean George will play the same position as Granger. The Pacers really need a point guard, so maybe this is a pick for someone else. Otherwise, George should be a great asset off the bench.
Monday, June 07, 2010
2010 NBA Finals - Recap of Game 1 and 2
Well we’re two games into the NBA Finals and we’re sitting 1-1. The Lakers were able to ride Kobe and a surprising Ron Artest to a win in Game 1, while Ray Allen showed that he can still do it with a scorching performance of 32 points while breaking a NBA Finals Record for hitting 8 three pointers.
As far as Game 1 was concerned, the Celtics looked slow and old and almost not interested in the game. Paul Pierce ended the game with a decent stat line of 24 pts, 9 boards, 4 helpers, and 2 blocks, but most of this was done after the game was no longer in doubt. Artest hounded (beat) Pierce up for the majority of the game and also was able to make Pierce a lot more tentative after instigating the double technical foul call 20 seconds into the game. Kobe (30 pts) and Pau Gasol (23 pts, 14 boards) led the way for the Lakers. Artest not only held Pierce in check for most of the game but he gave them 15 pts, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals.
Game 2 was a complete role reversal. Ray Allen was dogged by foul trouble in Game 1 but in Game 2 he came out with his jump shot switched to ‘ON’. Ray hit his first 7 3-pointers. It got so bad that the Lakers had to switch Kobe off of Rondo to try and cool down Allen. They even tried Artest at one point but the only person that seemed to be able to stop Allen was Doc Rivers. Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett couldn’t even put up a combined triple double with 16 points (on 4 of 16 shooting), 8 rebounds, and 10 assists. Overshadowed by Allen’s onslaught was the triple double turned in by none other than Rajon Rondo (19pts, 12 rebs, 10 asts). Rondo was also key down the stretch making all the right plays. Kobe had a subpar game (21 pts, 5 fouls), while Gasol and Bynum controlled the paint with 46 pts, 14 rebounds, and 13 blocks combined. Kobe was seething after the game, so I expect for him to come out swinging in Game 3.
Recap on My Predictions:
KG has done his best Rashard Lewis/David Copperfield impression by disappearing in this series so far. I don’t know if it’s his leg or he’s tired or he’s old or a combination of all of them. It pains me somewhere deep in my heart to watch him lumber up and down the court like this. KG, please find your game, soon. Right now Gasol is killing you. (Matchup BIG in favor of Lakers)
Bynum is impressing me. He has played well in both games and has looked rather agile, mobile and ready to rumble with the Celtics. He is overpowering the shorter Perkins and he’s finishing at the rim. If this continues, the Celtics are in T-R-O-U-B-L-E. (Matchup swinging in favor of Lakers)
Pierce has not showed up yet either. Points-wise I’d call this matchup a draw, but the intangibles are heading in the Celtics favor. Before you ask if I’m crazy, the Celtics haven’t really needed Pierce, yet. He’s putting up some numbers but he isn’t taking a pounding (yet) and he’s got some life in his legs. Ray Allen getting off against in Game 2 forced the matchups that Boston wants. Worst case, this one is even. (Matchup even)
Kobe has put up 51 points in two games and that’s enough to normally swing this in the Lakers favor, however, I like the 32 point outburst by Ray Allen in Game 2 and what that means for the Celtics. I mentioned before the matchups, and if Kobe has to guard Allen instead of Rondo, this puts Fisher back on Rondo, who will continue to eat him (Fisher) alive. (Matchup even)
Rondo has a triple double and a not so bad Game 1. We know that this is the place where the Lakers try and hide Fisher and for good reason. (Matchup going in Celtics favor).
Celtic Bench Production – I pose this one question, what has Sheldon Williams done of not except to marry Candace Parker? Shelden, I’m a Dukie apologist and I need for you to do something instead of turning the ball over. Nate Robinson has provided some spark and I look for him to get a little more tick so that Doc can rest Rondo. Tony Allen, I can at least excuse you from my wrath for playing decent defense.
Lakers Bench Production – Tin Man, where are you? If Odom doesn’t play well next game, look for Kobe to hit him squa’ in the face during one of the huddles. Farmer has played ok, but for some reason he always seems to be a little too fast for his own good. Only 5 minutes of Luke Walton playing so, we’ll wait on that one.
As far as Game 1 was concerned, the Celtics looked slow and old and almost not interested in the game. Paul Pierce ended the game with a decent stat line of 24 pts, 9 boards, 4 helpers, and 2 blocks, but most of this was done after the game was no longer in doubt. Artest hounded (beat) Pierce up for the majority of the game and also was able to make Pierce a lot more tentative after instigating the double technical foul call 20 seconds into the game. Kobe (30 pts) and Pau Gasol (23 pts, 14 boards) led the way for the Lakers. Artest not only held Pierce in check for most of the game but he gave them 15 pts, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals.
Game 2 was a complete role reversal. Ray Allen was dogged by foul trouble in Game 1 but in Game 2 he came out with his jump shot switched to ‘ON’. Ray hit his first 7 3-pointers. It got so bad that the Lakers had to switch Kobe off of Rondo to try and cool down Allen. They even tried Artest at one point but the only person that seemed to be able to stop Allen was Doc Rivers. Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett couldn’t even put up a combined triple double with 16 points (on 4 of 16 shooting), 8 rebounds, and 10 assists. Overshadowed by Allen’s onslaught was the triple double turned in by none other than Rajon Rondo (19pts, 12 rebs, 10 asts). Rondo was also key down the stretch making all the right plays. Kobe had a subpar game (21 pts, 5 fouls), while Gasol and Bynum controlled the paint with 46 pts, 14 rebounds, and 13 blocks combined. Kobe was seething after the game, so I expect for him to come out swinging in Game 3.
Recap on My Predictions:
KG has done his best Rashard Lewis/David Copperfield impression by disappearing in this series so far. I don’t know if it’s his leg or he’s tired or he’s old or a combination of all of them. It pains me somewhere deep in my heart to watch him lumber up and down the court like this. KG, please find your game, soon. Right now Gasol is killing you. (Matchup BIG in favor of Lakers)
Bynum is impressing me. He has played well in both games and has looked rather agile, mobile and ready to rumble with the Celtics. He is overpowering the shorter Perkins and he’s finishing at the rim. If this continues, the Celtics are in T-R-O-U-B-L-E. (Matchup swinging in favor of Lakers)
Pierce has not showed up yet either. Points-wise I’d call this matchup a draw, but the intangibles are heading in the Celtics favor. Before you ask if I’m crazy, the Celtics haven’t really needed Pierce, yet. He’s putting up some numbers but he isn’t taking a pounding (yet) and he’s got some life in his legs. Ray Allen getting off against in Game 2 forced the matchups that Boston wants. Worst case, this one is even. (Matchup even)
Kobe has put up 51 points in two games and that’s enough to normally swing this in the Lakers favor, however, I like the 32 point outburst by Ray Allen in Game 2 and what that means for the Celtics. I mentioned before the matchups, and if Kobe has to guard Allen instead of Rondo, this puts Fisher back on Rondo, who will continue to eat him (Fisher) alive. (Matchup even)
Rondo has a triple double and a not so bad Game 1. We know that this is the place where the Lakers try and hide Fisher and for good reason. (Matchup going in Celtics favor).
Celtic Bench Production – I pose this one question, what has Sheldon Williams done of not except to marry Candace Parker? Shelden, I’m a Dukie apologist and I need for you to do something instead of turning the ball over. Nate Robinson has provided some spark and I look for him to get a little more tick so that Doc can rest Rondo. Tony Allen, I can at least excuse you from my wrath for playing decent defense.
Lakers Bench Production – Tin Man, where are you? If Odom doesn’t play well next game, look for Kobe to hit him squa’ in the face during one of the huddles. Farmer has played ok, but for some reason he always seems to be a little too fast for his own good. Only 5 minutes of Luke Walton playing so, we’ll wait on that one.
Thursday, June 03, 2010
2010 NBA Finals
Well, it’s that time. The NBA Finals start tonight in LA as the Celtics and the Lakers battle it out for the title. We all know the subplots, the Celtics are 9-2 against the Lakers in the Finals, Kendrick Perkins is a ‘T’ from having to sit out a game, Bynum is a quick move from being out of the series, Kobe is supposedly back to form and the Celtics defense is the best in the league. So what’s going to happen?
So with all of that said let’s look at the matchups and then I’ll give you my picks:
Kendrick Perkins vs. Andrew Bynum – I’ve been one that said that Bynum should have had that surgery a while ago, but then when you think about the surgeries that he’s had in the past, he never healed quickly. So with that said, he’s holding on by a thread. I expect him and Perkins to get in to it with each other. Bynum will find a way to pick up fouls at a Perkins rate too. Matchup – Even
Kevin Garnett vs. Pau Gasol – This will be the matchup of the series. KG looked awful at times guarding Dwight Howard as he beat him off the dribble on that same move going to the lane. Gasol is just as quick, but Howard was able to jump over KG, and I’m not sure that Gasol can. At times, KG looked like the KG of old (see games 1-3 of the ECF) and others, he’s looked just old. I don’t think that you can change your mentality, your essence in a series. Matchup – Edge Celtics
Paul Pierce vs. Ron Artest – A few years ago, this would have been great to watch because Artest could play defense AND give you 20 points. Although that 20 point total might be closer to 13 or 15 now, Artest’s defense is going to be of the utmost importance. If Pierce didn’t know it yet, he should make sure that he has medical coverage and that his life insurance is paid up because Artest is going to maul him this series (see Kevin Durant, 1st Round vs. Lakers). Pierce likes to flail and fall a lot and may draw a few extra fouls on Artest, but he’s going to have to tough this one out. He is the Truth. Matchup – Edge Celtics
Ray Allen vs. Kobe Bryant – Well not much to say here, I love ‘Jesus’ (Ray Allen), but against Kobe, he’ll have his hands full on defense and offense. Kobe is the premier player in the league today, even with his many maladies. I expect Kobe to get his points, but the trick will be to make him a volume shooter. If he gets 30 and he takes 30 shots, you can almost live with that. Allen will get his points and may help tire out Kobe from running off of every pick from Boston to LA. Matchup – Edge Lakers
Rajon Rondo vs. Derek Fisher – Most would say that Fish needs to sit this one out. He’s going against one of the quickest PGs in the game and he will have a problem staying in front of him. If they back off of Rondo and force him to shoot jumpers, which may be the best way to handle him. I imagine that you’ll see a lot of Jordan Farmer on Rondo too to try and match some of his quickness. Rondo will continue to run this Celtics team as long as his hammy/back hold up. Hopefully the rest has done him well too. Matchup – Edge Celtics
Celtics Bench vs. Lakers Bench – We know that the Celtics are going to need production from Rasheed Wallace, especially if they lose Perkins for a game or two for ‘T’s. I’m looking for another dusting off of Nate Robinson but the two people that will have an impact on this series will be Tony Allen and Sheldon Williams. I imagine that Williams will have to do some spot duty in this series for Perkins and how he plays will dictate whether the Celtics have to double up or play man. The Lakers are going to need contributions from Farmar and Odom off their bench. Farmar can’t be a turnover waiting to happen and Odom has to show everyone that he isn’t the Tin Man (ouch). I expect that you’ll get a heavy dose of Luke Walton this series which always seems to produce good outcomes for the Lakers. Matchup – Even
I think that unfortunately, Bynum’s knee doesn’t hold up. The Celtics defense is able to make life extremely hard for Kobe and in the end; I got the Celtics in 6.
So with all of that said let’s look at the matchups and then I’ll give you my picks:
Kendrick Perkins vs. Andrew Bynum – I’ve been one that said that Bynum should have had that surgery a while ago, but then when you think about the surgeries that he’s had in the past, he never healed quickly. So with that said, he’s holding on by a thread. I expect him and Perkins to get in to it with each other. Bynum will find a way to pick up fouls at a Perkins rate too. Matchup – Even
Kevin Garnett vs. Pau Gasol – This will be the matchup of the series. KG looked awful at times guarding Dwight Howard as he beat him off the dribble on that same move going to the lane. Gasol is just as quick, but Howard was able to jump over KG, and I’m not sure that Gasol can. At times, KG looked like the KG of old (see games 1-3 of the ECF) and others, he’s looked just old. I don’t think that you can change your mentality, your essence in a series. Matchup – Edge Celtics
Paul Pierce vs. Ron Artest – A few years ago, this would have been great to watch because Artest could play defense AND give you 20 points. Although that 20 point total might be closer to 13 or 15 now, Artest’s defense is going to be of the utmost importance. If Pierce didn’t know it yet, he should make sure that he has medical coverage and that his life insurance is paid up because Artest is going to maul him this series (see Kevin Durant, 1st Round vs. Lakers). Pierce likes to flail and fall a lot and may draw a few extra fouls on Artest, but he’s going to have to tough this one out. He is the Truth. Matchup – Edge Celtics
Ray Allen vs. Kobe Bryant – Well not much to say here, I love ‘Jesus’ (Ray Allen), but against Kobe, he’ll have his hands full on defense and offense. Kobe is the premier player in the league today, even with his many maladies. I expect Kobe to get his points, but the trick will be to make him a volume shooter. If he gets 30 and he takes 30 shots, you can almost live with that. Allen will get his points and may help tire out Kobe from running off of every pick from Boston to LA. Matchup – Edge Lakers
Rajon Rondo vs. Derek Fisher – Most would say that Fish needs to sit this one out. He’s going against one of the quickest PGs in the game and he will have a problem staying in front of him. If they back off of Rondo and force him to shoot jumpers, which may be the best way to handle him. I imagine that you’ll see a lot of Jordan Farmer on Rondo too to try and match some of his quickness. Rondo will continue to run this Celtics team as long as his hammy/back hold up. Hopefully the rest has done him well too. Matchup – Edge Celtics
Celtics Bench vs. Lakers Bench – We know that the Celtics are going to need production from Rasheed Wallace, especially if they lose Perkins for a game or two for ‘T’s. I’m looking for another dusting off of Nate Robinson but the two people that will have an impact on this series will be Tony Allen and Sheldon Williams. I imagine that Williams will have to do some spot duty in this series for Perkins and how he plays will dictate whether the Celtics have to double up or play man. The Lakers are going to need contributions from Farmar and Odom off their bench. Farmar can’t be a turnover waiting to happen and Odom has to show everyone that he isn’t the Tin Man (ouch). I expect that you’ll get a heavy dose of Luke Walton this series which always seems to produce good outcomes for the Lakers. Matchup – Even
I think that unfortunately, Bynum’s knee doesn’t hold up. The Celtics defense is able to make life extremely hard for Kobe and in the end; I got the Celtics in 6.
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