Monday, August 22, 2011
NBA Lockout
If you're interested in the NBA Lockout and want a different perspective, check out Malcolm Gladwell's article. (You can find it here.) If you don't know who Malcom Gladwell is (smack yourself right now), then check out his site and his other publications.
Crossing the Line
Roger Goodell has allowed Terrelle Pryor to enter the NFL Supplemental draft and that is something that took way too long to complete but it came with a caveat. Pryor had initially been suspended 5 games by the NCAA for violations, but signed a letter/promise to former coach Tressel that he would come back this year to OSU. Goodell felt that Pryor should sit the first 5 weeks of the NFL season as a result. Well,...maybe. The NFL/Goodell made the following statement:
"... Pryor made decisions that undermine the integrity of the eligibility rules for the NFL Draft. Those actions included failing to cooperate with the NCAA and hiring an agent in violation of NCAA rules, which resulted in Ohio State declaring him ineligible to continue playing college football. Pryor then applied to enter the NFL after the regular draft. Pryor had accepted at the end of the 2010 college football season a suspension for the first five games of the 2011 season for violating NCAA rules. Pryor will be ineligible to practice prior to or play in the first five games of the NFL regular season after he signs." - ESPN.com
While basing his decision on this, it allows Goodell to collude with the NCAA to enforce 'rules'. I will give it to Goodell, when you're the man, you're the man and you make the rules. BUT, I will ask the following questions:
1) WHEN Tressel becomes an assistant coach with some NFL team in the next year or two will Goodell suspend him for 5 games or even more? One could argue that Tressel 'failed to cooperate' with the NCAA and he even voluntarily accepted the same 5 game ban that Pryor was 'forced' to accept. Did I say forced to accept? When does a school wrangle to make sure that their best players aren't ineligible for a bowl (that's going to make them lots of money) and then force a kid to sign an agreement to return the next season?
2) Pete Carroll should be sitting somewhere drinking profusely. If Goodell is going to institute this punishment, where's Carroll's slice of that pie? We KNOW he knew about Bush and others that came through USC and instead of facing the music he took a several million dollar parachute to become the Seattle Seahawks coach? Why isn't he getting suspended?
3) Miami. If Nevin Shapiro is even half right, are all of these Miami guys going to get suspended? I'm sure a lot of them took these gifts/parties/women/etc. knowing that they were only going to be there for a short period of time. The fact that they left school after their last game and hired an agent shouldn't allow them to escape the wrath of Goodell.
This is just another chapter of the hipocracy of those in charge. Should Pryor fight this? I would probably say no, because he wants to get in the league and Goodell could argue this issue until the 2012 NFL Draft which would require Pryor to sit for a year. Is it right? I would definitely say 'no'. Goodell overstepped his boundaries and set a bad precedence. Understand that Pryor's agent, Drew Rosenhaus came up with this deal (and again, this may be the best way for Pryor to get in), but the NFLPA never took a position on this and that's their job to make sure that players aren't cutting deals that undermine the entire union.Nevertheless, Pryor will have his chance to play in the pros, but I guess he never thought it would turn out like this.
Should Pryor appeal this decision? Did Goodell cross the line? Why wasn't the NFLPA a part of this decision? Should any coach also be held accountable for any issues with the NCAA if and when they forgo college coaching to go pro?
"... Pryor made decisions that undermine the integrity of the eligibility rules for the NFL Draft. Those actions included failing to cooperate with the NCAA and hiring an agent in violation of NCAA rules, which resulted in Ohio State declaring him ineligible to continue playing college football. Pryor then applied to enter the NFL after the regular draft. Pryor had accepted at the end of the 2010 college football season a suspension for the first five games of the 2011 season for violating NCAA rules. Pryor will be ineligible to practice prior to or play in the first five games of the NFL regular season after he signs." - ESPN.com
While basing his decision on this, it allows Goodell to collude with the NCAA to enforce 'rules'. I will give it to Goodell, when you're the man, you're the man and you make the rules. BUT, I will ask the following questions:
1) WHEN Tressel becomes an assistant coach with some NFL team in the next year or two will Goodell suspend him for 5 games or even more? One could argue that Tressel 'failed to cooperate' with the NCAA and he even voluntarily accepted the same 5 game ban that Pryor was 'forced' to accept. Did I say forced to accept? When does a school wrangle to make sure that their best players aren't ineligible for a bowl (that's going to make them lots of money) and then force a kid to sign an agreement to return the next season?
2) Pete Carroll should be sitting somewhere drinking profusely. If Goodell is going to institute this punishment, where's Carroll's slice of that pie? We KNOW he knew about Bush and others that came through USC and instead of facing the music he took a several million dollar parachute to become the Seattle Seahawks coach? Why isn't he getting suspended?
3) Miami. If Nevin Shapiro is even half right, are all of these Miami guys going to get suspended? I'm sure a lot of them took these gifts/parties/women/etc. knowing that they were only going to be there for a short period of time. The fact that they left school after their last game and hired an agent shouldn't allow them to escape the wrath of Goodell.
This is just another chapter of the hipocracy of those in charge. Should Pryor fight this? I would probably say no, because he wants to get in the league and Goodell could argue this issue until the 2012 NFL Draft which would require Pryor to sit for a year. Is it right? I would definitely say 'no'. Goodell overstepped his boundaries and set a bad precedence. Understand that Pryor's agent, Drew Rosenhaus came up with this deal (and again, this may be the best way for Pryor to get in), but the NFLPA never took a position on this and that's their job to make sure that players aren't cutting deals that undermine the entire union.Nevertheless, Pryor will have his chance to play in the pros, but I guess he never thought it would turn out like this.
Should Pryor appeal this decision? Did Goodell cross the line? Why wasn't the NFLPA a part of this decision? Should any coach also be held accountable for any issues with the NCAA if and when they forgo college coaching to go pro?
Monday, August 15, 2011
Checking In,......
It's definitely been a minute since the last post but we gotta start somewhere. Let's take a look at what's been going on,.......
Fortunately for us, Football is back on. Week 1 of the preseason is complete and although there are some story lines, we know that this can change within a week. I'll highlight a few:
Cutler looked like he was dodging people again as the Bears O-line looked terrible in their debut. Maybe it is the turf at Soldier Field or maybe it's the guy bringing in the players. Either way, something has to be done. You paid Cutler upwards of $50M, now protect him and give him a chance.
Tavaris Jackson looked as out of place in Seattle as he did in Minny. I like the kid, but he's gotta find a home somewhere. Not saying that Seattle isn't it, but Josh Portis looked real good running that team. I'm just sayin.
Tim Tebow is going to be alright. I know a lot of people have piled on the kid and yes, he's #2 on the depth chart, but I'm putting my money on Tebow to prove everyone wrong. He may not have the best delivery or the best footwork or whatever you want to throw in there, but he is a winner. Count me as a believer (in more ways than one).
No Peyton Manning for the Colts. If he doesn't play any games in the preseason I'm worried. I know he's a veteran and everything but until I see him out there with that bad neck and all running around throwing the ball,..I'm not going to believe he's healthy enough to play this year. Without Manning, the Colts aren't going to be very good, and it's tough right now because he's looking for a mega deal from the Colts. Watch this one.
Plaxico Burress is back as a Jet and he hasn't played yet? When did he injure this ankle (all jailhouse jokes aside)? I actually want to see him succeed, so let's hope he heals quickly and gets back on the field.
I know it's one game, but if you could write a redemption story, Michael Vick being an accurate passer might be the biggest thing out there. He looked great against Baltimore, and he was putting the ball exactly where it needed to be. He looked like a shorter, left-handed, more mobile, Peyton Manning. Philly fans don't get too excited just yet.
In New England, we all know that if Brady should go down they have two guys in Hoyer and Mallett that may be able to step in and help this team still win games.
Osi Umenyiora finally finds the Giants practice field and hopefully a new deal so that we don't have to hear about this anymore. Maybe he was hurt, maybe he wasn't,...just pay the dude and keep moving Giants.
Chris Johnson and I are still hanging out (just kidding) because he can't get a deal with the Titans that pays him more. The Titans say that they will make him the highest paid back in the league if he comes to camp, and Johnson wants the deal done before he reports (let's meet on the practice field and get this done).
Daunte Cullpepper is coming in for a tryout with the 49ers. Talk about scrap heap. Wait,...hold on,...I'm getting a phone call,...it's from the 49ers,......(pause)......, ok, I'm heading out to Cali for a tryout too. Gotta pack up and go.
From the NBA:
Kendrick Perkins was arrested on misdemeanor disorderly conduct and intoxication after being involved in an altercation outside of the The Ticket nightclub in Beaumont, TX. Hey, I'm not judging, he was at a club, probably had a few drinks and at least he wasn't driving. He got into an altercation with the club owner and possibly some other people, but my issue is he was in the area hosting a camp that helped raise money for his foundation which aims to 'help children learn life skills and drug awareness'. I guess he needed a real life situation to discuss with the kids.
The impasse that is the NBA Lockout rolls on and no one really seems to be interested in making any deals or even talking that much until October. I hope they can get this worked out, because we need basketball.
Everybody and their mother is talking about playing overseas while the lockout continues. Some have signed contracts and others are positioning themselves to follow suit. Nothing like getting paid on your summer vacation.
Will Phil Jackson out of LA, and openings across the NBA, more specifically in NY, it seems as though some feel that Phil would be a perfect fit for the Knicks. D'Antoni's days seem to be numbered and Phil would make a great target for the Knicks brass. Could you imagine Phil working with Melo and Amare with a few extra pieces?
The Hall of Fame Class may not have had the notoriety as others, but Dennis Rodman was able to steal the show with his honesty and emotion. Rodman has long been overly flamboyant with the different hairstyles, the outfits, the attitude, and of course the basketball. With former coach Phil Jackson at his side, Rodman gave his HOF speech and you could tell that he was grateful for even being there. Good moment for everyone.
From MLB:
Dan Uggla's 33 game hitting streak was stopped by, of all teams, the Cubs. Uggla had the longest hitting streak in the majors over the last 5 years. It's important to know that Uggla had been carrying the Braves with other major players (C. Jones, McCann) in and out of the lineup during his streak.
Carlos Zambrano is ejected from a game against the Braves and not only goes postal on the ump, but he cleans out his locker and goes home. The Cubs have suspended Zambrano for 30 days without pay and they have to make a decision about this guy. He is largely a cancer on this team and his outburst don't help. The team that's probably glad they didn't pull the trigger on acquiring Zambrano, the Yankees.
A-Rod may be returning from his injury and he may not go to jail for being in the home during an illegal card game. Talk about a win win.
From the NCAA:
The $1M question: Should athletes get paid? More and more discussion is going into this and we'll see what happens. ESPN is doing a piece on this and it's funny to see Nick Saban talking about 'this is a revenue generating' sport and the money goes back into the school and not into his pocket. Isn't he getting paid upwards of $4M a year (9 year; $42M deal in 2009)?
What else have I missed? What are you looking forward to in the next week? When will the NBA Lockout end?
Fortunately for us, Football is back on. Week 1 of the preseason is complete and although there are some story lines, we know that this can change within a week. I'll highlight a few:
Cutler looked like he was dodging people again as the Bears O-line looked terrible in their debut. Maybe it is the turf at Soldier Field or maybe it's the guy bringing in the players. Either way, something has to be done. You paid Cutler upwards of $50M, now protect him and give him a chance.
Tavaris Jackson looked as out of place in Seattle as he did in Minny. I like the kid, but he's gotta find a home somewhere. Not saying that Seattle isn't it, but Josh Portis looked real good running that team. I'm just sayin.
Tim Tebow is going to be alright. I know a lot of people have piled on the kid and yes, he's #2 on the depth chart, but I'm putting my money on Tebow to prove everyone wrong. He may not have the best delivery or the best footwork or whatever you want to throw in there, but he is a winner. Count me as a believer (in more ways than one).
No Peyton Manning for the Colts. If he doesn't play any games in the preseason I'm worried. I know he's a veteran and everything but until I see him out there with that bad neck and all running around throwing the ball,..I'm not going to believe he's healthy enough to play this year. Without Manning, the Colts aren't going to be very good, and it's tough right now because he's looking for a mega deal from the Colts. Watch this one.
Plaxico Burress is back as a Jet and he hasn't played yet? When did he injure this ankle (all jailhouse jokes aside)? I actually want to see him succeed, so let's hope he heals quickly and gets back on the field.
I know it's one game, but if you could write a redemption story, Michael Vick being an accurate passer might be the biggest thing out there. He looked great against Baltimore, and he was putting the ball exactly where it needed to be. He looked like a shorter, left-handed, more mobile, Peyton Manning. Philly fans don't get too excited just yet.
In New England, we all know that if Brady should go down they have two guys in Hoyer and Mallett that may be able to step in and help this team still win games.
Osi Umenyiora finally finds the Giants practice field and hopefully a new deal so that we don't have to hear about this anymore. Maybe he was hurt, maybe he wasn't,...just pay the dude and keep moving Giants.
Chris Johnson and I are still hanging out (just kidding) because he can't get a deal with the Titans that pays him more. The Titans say that they will make him the highest paid back in the league if he comes to camp, and Johnson wants the deal done before he reports (let's meet on the practice field and get this done).
Daunte Cullpepper is coming in for a tryout with the 49ers. Talk about scrap heap. Wait,...hold on,...I'm getting a phone call,...it's from the 49ers,......(pause)......, ok, I'm heading out to Cali for a tryout too. Gotta pack up and go.
From the NBA:
Kendrick Perkins was arrested on misdemeanor disorderly conduct and intoxication after being involved in an altercation outside of the The Ticket nightclub in Beaumont, TX. Hey, I'm not judging, he was at a club, probably had a few drinks and at least he wasn't driving. He got into an altercation with the club owner and possibly some other people, but my issue is he was in the area hosting a camp that helped raise money for his foundation which aims to 'help children learn life skills and drug awareness'. I guess he needed a real life situation to discuss with the kids.
The impasse that is the NBA Lockout rolls on and no one really seems to be interested in making any deals or even talking that much until October. I hope they can get this worked out, because we need basketball.
Everybody and their mother is talking about playing overseas while the lockout continues. Some have signed contracts and others are positioning themselves to follow suit. Nothing like getting paid on your summer vacation.
Will Phil Jackson out of LA, and openings across the NBA, more specifically in NY, it seems as though some feel that Phil would be a perfect fit for the Knicks. D'Antoni's days seem to be numbered and Phil would make a great target for the Knicks brass. Could you imagine Phil working with Melo and Amare with a few extra pieces?
The Hall of Fame Class may not have had the notoriety as others, but Dennis Rodman was able to steal the show with his honesty and emotion. Rodman has long been overly flamboyant with the different hairstyles, the outfits, the attitude, and of course the basketball. With former coach Phil Jackson at his side, Rodman gave his HOF speech and you could tell that he was grateful for even being there. Good moment for everyone.
From MLB:
Dan Uggla's 33 game hitting streak was stopped by, of all teams, the Cubs. Uggla had the longest hitting streak in the majors over the last 5 years. It's important to know that Uggla had been carrying the Braves with other major players (C. Jones, McCann) in and out of the lineup during his streak.
Carlos Zambrano is ejected from a game against the Braves and not only goes postal on the ump, but he cleans out his locker and goes home. The Cubs have suspended Zambrano for 30 days without pay and they have to make a decision about this guy. He is largely a cancer on this team and his outburst don't help. The team that's probably glad they didn't pull the trigger on acquiring Zambrano, the Yankees.
A-Rod may be returning from his injury and he may not go to jail for being in the home during an illegal card game. Talk about a win win.
From the NCAA:
The $1M question: Should athletes get paid? More and more discussion is going into this and we'll see what happens. ESPN is doing a piece on this and it's funny to see Nick Saban talking about 'this is a revenue generating' sport and the money goes back into the school and not into his pocket. Isn't he getting paid upwards of $4M a year (9 year; $42M deal in 2009)?
What else have I missed? What are you looking forward to in the next week? When will the NBA Lockout end?
Thursday, July 28, 2011
NFL Moves,...
Glad that we're back in the business of the NFL, and with all of the shortened timelines to get league business going, it's been a whirlwind since the agreement has been ratified. Most of these deals aren't going to be consummated until Friday, but there are a few shockers that already hit the wires, and with that, let's start at my biggest:
Albert Haynesworth traded to New England Patriots - What? The guy that couldn't get in shape last year? The guy we had to watch run on news sports shows for almost a week? And he is now traded to one of the better teams in the league for a 5th round pick? Where did I go wrong? I guess Haynesworth got what he wanted, his checks AND a new place to play in a system that relies more on his abilities than the Redskins did.
Reggie Bush traded to Miami Dolphins - First LeBron, then Chris Bosh, and now Reggie Bush. Everyone is taking their 'talents to South Beach'. Not sure if this is a good fit for the Dolphins because they might lose their power runners (Williams and Brown) and I don't know if Bush can deliver like those guys did. Bush did get a new two-year deal out of this so that part is done.
Sidney Rice signs with Seattle - Ok, congrats to Rice for getting his new deal (5 years, $41M). At least he'll get paid and he'll continue to catch passes from Tavaris Jackson (who also signed with Seattle). I guess this was the best deal for him, but I probably would have taken less money to play for a better team.
Donovan McNabb traded to Minnesota Vikings - This deal is probably two or three years too late. With Childress leaving Philly to go to Minny, many thought McNabb would soon be right behind him, but that never happened. McNabb is definitely past his prime and may be warming the seat for Christian Ponder, but I hope that he can help this team win. They still got AP and that defense, so it's not a total rebuild just yet. Good luck Donovan.
Jason Babin signs with Philadelphia Eagles - For those that don't know, Babin was a monster last year with Tennessee (can't blame him for offensive struggles). I am imagining that this will help the Philly pass rush and make Asante Samuel and their other corner (whomever that may be) very dangerous this year. Babin gets a 5 year deal, that I'm pretty sure he'll be finished with in the next 3 years (Babin is currently 31).
James Anderson re-signs with Carolina Panthers - Anderson has played well for the Panthers and everyone knew it was going to take some chedda to keep him in Carolina. Lo and behold, Carolina gave the NC product a 5 year $22M deal for his trouble. Anderson probably had offers that would have taken him to Atlanta or other teams, but he chose the Panthers. Let's see how this one works out.
DeAngelo Williams re-signs with Carolina Panthers - He got paid, period. 5 years for $43M ($21M guaranteed). Williams was part of the two back system in Carolina that may have just become a one back system. He'll be needed since the Panthers will be starting rookie Cam Newton or Jimmy Claussen. I imagine a lot of 17-10 games for the Panthers this year.
And lastly, you can always go home again. It looks like Plaxico Burress will be returning to one of his previous homes in either Pittsburgh or New York. Bot the Giants and the Steelers need some options at WR and they both hope that Plax has grown up a little. We'll see which team he picks, but he'll get a deal between $2M-$4M a year with incentives to make it bigger than that. Good luck Plax and please, no more hand guns.
Won't get to all of the deals going down, but what other ones did we miss? Is your team going to get better in this short off-season? What's the next big move?
UPDATES:
Chad Ochocinco is traded to New England Patriots - What are the Patriots doing? They are building another dynasty. They acquire Ochocinco for two draft picks (not yet determined), but one for this year and one for next year. With the Patriots thisclose to winning it all again, this is a good move. Another stunner (with Haynesworth) by the Patriots in this shortened period. Next thing you know they get Nnandi Asomugha for a bag of chips.
Kevin Kolb is traded to the Arizona Cardinals for Dominique Rogers-Cromartie - This deal finally gets done after months of speculation and back and forth between the teams. The Cardinals are betting that Kolb can be the man (bad bet in my opinion) and they gave up their best corner for the opportunity. Both teams got what they want, but the verdict on this trade will come down as to how many wins Kolb is actually able to lead this Cardinals team to.
Matthias Kiwanuka re-signs with the Giants - This is a move the Giants had to do because there was too much bad blood between them and Umenyora. I like what Kiwanuka brings to the table and he and Justin Tuck and that defensive line in NY should wreak havoc this year.
Albert Haynesworth traded to New England Patriots - What? The guy that couldn't get in shape last year? The guy we had to watch run on news sports shows for almost a week? And he is now traded to one of the better teams in the league for a 5th round pick? Where did I go wrong? I guess Haynesworth got what he wanted, his checks AND a new place to play in a system that relies more on his abilities than the Redskins did.
Reggie Bush traded to Miami Dolphins - First LeBron, then Chris Bosh, and now Reggie Bush. Everyone is taking their 'talents to South Beach'. Not sure if this is a good fit for the Dolphins because they might lose their power runners (Williams and Brown) and I don't know if Bush can deliver like those guys did. Bush did get a new two-year deal out of this so that part is done.
Sidney Rice signs with Seattle - Ok, congrats to Rice for getting his new deal (5 years, $41M). At least he'll get paid and he'll continue to catch passes from Tavaris Jackson (who also signed with Seattle). I guess this was the best deal for him, but I probably would have taken less money to play for a better team.
Donovan McNabb traded to Minnesota Vikings - This deal is probably two or three years too late. With Childress leaving Philly to go to Minny, many thought McNabb would soon be right behind him, but that never happened. McNabb is definitely past his prime and may be warming the seat for Christian Ponder, but I hope that he can help this team win. They still got AP and that defense, so it's not a total rebuild just yet. Good luck Donovan.
Jason Babin signs with Philadelphia Eagles - For those that don't know, Babin was a monster last year with Tennessee (can't blame him for offensive struggles). I am imagining that this will help the Philly pass rush and make Asante Samuel and their other corner (whomever that may be) very dangerous this year. Babin gets a 5 year deal, that I'm pretty sure he'll be finished with in the next 3 years (Babin is currently 31).
James Anderson re-signs with Carolina Panthers - Anderson has played well for the Panthers and everyone knew it was going to take some chedda to keep him in Carolina. Lo and behold, Carolina gave the NC product a 5 year $22M deal for his trouble. Anderson probably had offers that would have taken him to Atlanta or other teams, but he chose the Panthers. Let's see how this one works out.
DeAngelo Williams re-signs with Carolina Panthers - He got paid, period. 5 years for $43M ($21M guaranteed). Williams was part of the two back system in Carolina that may have just become a one back system. He'll be needed since the Panthers will be starting rookie Cam Newton or Jimmy Claussen. I imagine a lot of 17-10 games for the Panthers this year.
And lastly, you can always go home again. It looks like Plaxico Burress will be returning to one of his previous homes in either Pittsburgh or New York. Bot the Giants and the Steelers need some options at WR and they both hope that Plax has grown up a little. We'll see which team he picks, but he'll get a deal between $2M-$4M a year with incentives to make it bigger than that. Good luck Plax and please, no more hand guns.
Won't get to all of the deals going down, but what other ones did we miss? Is your team going to get better in this short off-season? What's the next big move?
UPDATES:
Chad Ochocinco is traded to New England Patriots - What are the Patriots doing? They are building another dynasty. They acquire Ochocinco for two draft picks (not yet determined), but one for this year and one for next year. With the Patriots thisclose to winning it all again, this is a good move. Another stunner (with Haynesworth) by the Patriots in this shortened period. Next thing you know they get Nnandi Asomugha for a bag of chips.
Kevin Kolb is traded to the Arizona Cardinals for Dominique Rogers-Cromartie - This deal finally gets done after months of speculation and back and forth between the teams. The Cardinals are betting that Kolb can be the man (bad bet in my opinion) and they gave up their best corner for the opportunity. Both teams got what they want, but the verdict on this trade will come down as to how many wins Kolb is actually able to lead this Cardinals team to.
Matthias Kiwanuka re-signs with the Giants - This is a move the Giants had to do because there was too much bad blood between them and Umenyora. I like what Kiwanuka brings to the table and he and Justin Tuck and that defensive line in NY should wreak havoc this year.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Frankly my dear,.....
Lawrence Frank will be the new coach of the Detroit Pistons. Frank spent last season with the Boston Celtics as an assistant and prior to that he coached the New Jersey Nets over seven seasons with a record of 225-241. Maybe Doc Rivers taught him something about the people side of the game, but Frank will have this Pistons team ready next year, if we have basketball.
What's your take on this hire? Will Patrick Ewing ever get a shot? Should Mike Woodson have gotten this gig? Did Dumars really pick this guy?
What's your take on this hire? Will Patrick Ewing ever get a shot? Should Mike Woodson have gotten this gig? Did Dumars really pick this guy?
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
We're thisclose.........................
OK, the NFLPA is voting on the deal that has been put together this afternoon and then the owners will have an opportunity to vote on this on Thursday, which would mean training camps open early next week. Say a prayer to the man upstairs tonight that the greedy owners finally realize that their product is only good if we (the fans) are watching. This has been rather funny to watch people say this is all the players fault. The NFL stands for Not For Long if you're talking about most players. Yes there are guys that play for 10+ years but there are several more than play for 1 or 2. These players play a very violent game to the delight of fans everywhere and they sacrifice their bodies to make this happen, so the money they make might be a lot up front, but the residual effect of some of these hits, contusions, concussions, etc. aren't felt until years down the road. They may actually need that money to care for themselves.
Only in America can the billionaires (take a look at the owners of these football teams) opt out of a deal with millionaires and the millionaires get blamed. Here's to football SOOOOON.
What's your take?!?! Who's side are you on? Is the lockout going to end this week? Are you ready for some football?
Only in America can the billionaires (take a look at the owners of these football teams) opt out of a deal with millionaires and the millionaires get blamed. Here's to football SOOOOON.
What's your take?!?! Who's side are you on? Is the lockout going to end this week? Are you ready for some football?
Monday, July 11, 2011
Checking In
Yes, we're still alive and actually a little happier now that it seems like we'll have some football this year outside of the NCAA. Let's catch up on a few things we missed over the last few weeks.
NBA:
Everyone seems to be wanting/planning on going overseas if the NBA lockout takes a while. I'm not sure how I view this one because you have people like Stephen A. who says that it's selfish for guys to do this when they are supposed to be a group supporting each other, and then you get stories like the one on Deron Williams where he articulates that he spoke with the NBAPA and they basically said that they are on board with his decision. Now you got rumors of Ron Artest playing in Britain, Nicolas Batum playing in France, Malik Hairston going to Italy, Kobe putting together an All-Star team for a trip through China, Tony Parker going to play for ASVEL (France), David Lighty and DaJuan Summers both going to Italy, Will Bynum going back to Maccabi Tel Aviv, and even guys like Matt Janning going to Fastweb Casale (Italy).
Of course with the NBA, you got silliness with of all people, and no one was surprised, that Michael Beasley was ticketed for the Mary Jane. Please forgive me as I fake the surprise face. Beasley has all the talent in the world, but they just drafted a kid that can do what you do and you are going to show up in the national headlines for this? (Getting on my soapbox) If you are a professional talent and need someone to mentor you or provide some real life experience on your journey, please, please please, drop me an email. We can work out the money (I do have kids I need to put through college, but they're young), I can guarantee that it'll definitely be worth it. My job will be to keep you out of the papers and doing stupid stuff like 'The Decision'. Call me.
LeBron is coming back to Ohio, well kind of. LeBron, or his image will be coming back to Ohio. The LeBron Brand will outfit the Ohio State Buckeyes, Kentucky Wildcats, and the University of Miami Hurricanes for the upcoming season.
We need basketball back just so we can watch the guys on TNT. Can you imagine how much more fun it'll be with adding Shaw to the lineup with Kenny, Charles, Ernie, and Webber? Look for the Big Broadcaster to join the TNT team when the lockout ends.
NFL:
A guess this is really a bad time for all athletes, Hines Ward was cited for a DUI, which prompted Ray Rice and Ryan Clark to start trash talking on Twitter. July 21st, please get us some football.
Another one of those, let me get my surprise face on, Pacman Jones, actually Adam Jones was arrested for drunken disorderly conduct. Unless he has a twin brother, this guy should just stay at home. Check the neck brace, this just can't be true.
Mike Vrabel is retiring to go back and be an assistant at his alma mater, The Ohio State University. He put in 14 years in the NFL and has some rings to show for it. He should be a welcome sight at the university with everything going on there.
Plaxico is being rumored to play for every team in the NFL, and we'll see which GM gives him a chance.
DeSean Jackson, please see note above about a mentor. This was a rampant issue in the NBA this year, so why do NFL players feel they'll get a pass? And on the radio?
When Peyton Manning says that he's hurting and needs the Colts training staff, you know the end of the lockout is near.
That's it for now,....what else is going on?
NBA:
Everyone seems to be wanting/planning on going overseas if the NBA lockout takes a while. I'm not sure how I view this one because you have people like Stephen A. who says that it's selfish for guys to do this when they are supposed to be a group supporting each other, and then you get stories like the one on Deron Williams where he articulates that he spoke with the NBAPA and they basically said that they are on board with his decision. Now you got rumors of Ron Artest playing in Britain, Nicolas Batum playing in France, Malik Hairston going to Italy, Kobe putting together an All-Star team for a trip through China, Tony Parker going to play for ASVEL (France), David Lighty and DaJuan Summers both going to Italy, Will Bynum going back to Maccabi Tel Aviv, and even guys like Matt Janning going to Fastweb Casale (Italy).
Of course with the NBA, you got silliness with of all people, and no one was surprised, that Michael Beasley was ticketed for the Mary Jane. Please forgive me as I fake the surprise face. Beasley has all the talent in the world, but they just drafted a kid that can do what you do and you are going to show up in the national headlines for this? (Getting on my soapbox) If you are a professional talent and need someone to mentor you or provide some real life experience on your journey, please, please please, drop me an email. We can work out the money (I do have kids I need to put through college, but they're young), I can guarantee that it'll definitely be worth it. My job will be to keep you out of the papers and doing stupid stuff like 'The Decision'. Call me.
LeBron is coming back to Ohio, well kind of. LeBron, or his image will be coming back to Ohio. The LeBron Brand will outfit the Ohio State Buckeyes, Kentucky Wildcats, and the University of Miami Hurricanes for the upcoming season.
We need basketball back just so we can watch the guys on TNT. Can you imagine how much more fun it'll be with adding Shaw to the lineup with Kenny, Charles, Ernie, and Webber? Look for the Big Broadcaster to join the TNT team when the lockout ends.
NFL:
A guess this is really a bad time for all athletes, Hines Ward was cited for a DUI, which prompted Ray Rice and Ryan Clark to start trash talking on Twitter. July 21st, please get us some football.
Another one of those, let me get my surprise face on, Pacman Jones, actually Adam Jones was arrested for drunken disorderly conduct. Unless he has a twin brother, this guy should just stay at home. Check the neck brace, this just can't be true.
Mike Vrabel is retiring to go back and be an assistant at his alma mater, The Ohio State University. He put in 14 years in the NFL and has some rings to show for it. He should be a welcome sight at the university with everything going on there.
Plaxico is being rumored to play for every team in the NFL, and we'll see which GM gives him a chance.
DeSean Jackson, please see note above about a mentor. This was a rampant issue in the NBA this year, so why do NFL players feel they'll get a pass? And on the radio?
When Peyton Manning says that he's hurting and needs the Colts training staff, you know the end of the lockout is near.
That's it for now,....what else is going on?
Friday, June 24, 2011
Grading the NBA Draft
Don't have the time to go pick by pick, but let's take a look at the teams and how they did in the draft last night. So of this will be determined by other trades that happened before or during the draft. Let's hit the ground rolling with,....
Atlanta Hawks: Keith Benson (48) - Well, he's tall and you can't teach height, but that's about it. He's 6'11" and he weighs 217lbs. Paperweight. (C-)
Boston Celtics: JaJuan Johnson (27) and E'Twaune Moore (55) - The Celtics really didn't have any good picks in this draft but I think got quality players. Johnson can play the 4 spot and may spend some time at the 5. He is on the slight side (see Benson, Keith) at 6'10" and 220lbs, but Johnson put up some good numbers in a good conference (Big Ten). The 2.3 blocks per game that he averaged should translate to a Celtics team easily. His teammate at Purdue and now with the Celtics, Moore is a solid player. Someone that can come in and play a role similar to what Tony Allen used to be for them, but with the athleticism. For a team that isn't that deep anymore, the Celtics made some good picks. (B+)
Charlotte Bobcats: Bismack Biyombo (7) and Kemba Walker (9) - I'm not sold on Biyombo. The funny thing that I saw during the draft was that Jordan was impressed with him during a late workout leading up to the draft, and the first response I saw was that he was impressed with Kwame Brown a few years ago too. After trading away all of your offense (Gerald Wallace and Stephen Jackson), they needed someone who could put point on the board (and they may have gotten him in their other pick), but Biyombo doesn't quite fit that mold. Kemba is a winner. He's got 'it' (and maybe LeBron doesn't?!) and that's what the Bobcats are going to need. It looks like they are going to run about 100 pick and rolls a game on offense and try to lock people down on the wings with Henderson and Biyombo and hope the clock runs out. (C+)
Chicago Bulls: Nikola Mirotic (23) and Jimmy Butler (30) - What?!?!? You saw what happened to your team in the playoffs and you go and get a guy that may never even come to the NBA?!?! And you need a 2 guard in the worst way? Butler is a decent player out of Marquette (so he's local), but I'm not sure he can score like the Bulls need. What's so ironic is that the Bulls traded up to get Mirotic at 23 (Jordan) and this is a night that even Mike did a better job than his old team. (C-)
Cleveland Cavaliers: Kyrie Irving (1), Tristan Thompson (4), and Milan Macvan (54) - This was a home run, but instead of going out of the stadium it got hung up in the cheap seats. Irving was a no-brainer as he will be your PG for the next 10 years. Tristan Thompson, well,.......this had to be a reach. I mean I think the kid has game. I felt that if Texas would have gone to him more they probably would have played in the title game. He can finish with both hands and can step out and hit a jumper. My issue is he's 6'8" and that's really it. I couldn't tell you who Macvan is if he walked into my house and had dinner with me and my family. (A-)
Dallas Mavericks: Rudy Fernandez (trade) - They actually picked Jordan Hamilton out of Texas and then traded him to Denver. The Mavericks are looking at repeating and Fernandez has wanted out of Portland for over a year. Makes Dallas that much stronger if they get Tough Juice (Caron Butler) back also.
Denver Nuggets: Kenneth Faried (22), Jordan Hamilton (26), and Chukwudiebere Maduabum (56) - Unless Faried turns into Ben Wallace Part II, I'm not sold on him. He should translate well for this team on the defensive side of the ball, especially with Kenyon Martin coming to the end of the road. Jordan Hamilton, is good, but how is he getting PT? They got Chandler (who I am really starting to like) and Danillo (who reminds me of Toni Kukoc). The Nuggets did get Andre Miller in a trade, but I expect him to be cut to save some money on their books. I think this was a bad night in Denver. And for CM, it took me 5 minutes to type his name, no way they make an NBA jersey for him. (C)
Detroit Pistons: Brandon Knight (8), Kyle Singler (33), and Vernon Macklin (52) - Brandon Knight will be a good fit for this team. His height at the PG spot will allow Ben Gordon to play defense (and yes I laughed when I typed this) on someone his size as Knight will probably guard some of the bigger 2 guards in the league. Kyle Singler, well,....he was available and at 33, that's good quality. Let's get this straight, the kid is tough, can score, but just needs to work on being consistent. There were too many games last year when he let his Duke team down by going 2 of 14 or something like that. Macklin brings a big body to the team and not sure what else. (B)
Golden State Warriors: Klay Thompson (11), Jeremy Tyler (39), and Charles Jenkins (44) - I actually like this draft for the Warriors. Monta Ellis' bags should have been packed as soon as he heard K-l-a-y. Thompson is a big 2 guard that can score and that should have made Curry happy all night long. Tyler was the kid that left high school his junior year, went overseas to play (to make some money), ended up leaving that team and coming home and sitting until he could enter the draft. He's a big kid and has good feet. I think with Mark Jackson there, he'll have an opportunity to be coached up and he could possibly be the steal of this draft. Jenkins can also put the ball in the bucket and may be a help off the bench. The question is will they be able to stop anyone. (Editor's note: Get off of Mark Jackson, yes he promised playoffs, but he didn't say what year). (B+)
Houston Rockets: Marcus Morris (14), Donatas Montiejunas (20), and Chandler Parsons (38) - Don't know what to say. The guys they drafted play the positions of the guys that are already in front of them. Doesn't look like these kids will play. If the goal is to move Morris to the 3, this is a terrible draft for the Rockets. (C+)
Indiana Pacers: George Hill (trade) - They actually drafted Kawhi Leonard and traded him to the Spurs for Hill. I like Hill, but they are loaded on the wings and the backcourt. Yes, Hill brings some leadership from a winning franchise and they have enough young pieces, but now they gotta make them work. (B-)
Los Angeles Clippers: Trey Thompkins (37) and Travis Leslie (47) - Not sure what happened here except that someone in Georgia must like the Clippers. I don't expect either of these guys to even make the team. (D)
Los Angeles Lakers: Darius Morris (41), Andrew Goudelock (46), and Ater Majok (58) - Who? Who? Who? (D)
Memphis Grizzlies: Josh Selby (49) - How in the world did this happen? I mean Selby was once considered the best high school basketball player in the country and then went to Kansas and got hurt and made some dumb decisions, but how did he fall all the way to 49 and into the laps of the Grizzlies. He can score and can run with Vasquez in that second unit. The question is what do the Grizzlies do with OJ Mayo? (B-)
Miami Heat: Norris Cole (28) - This is funny, the Heat pick a guy (born in Dayton, OH) from Cleveland State to play for them. Anyway, Cole is the point guard that they can use. I like Chalmers but many are saying that this kid will be an upgrade. We'll see what happens from here. (B)
Milwaukee Bucks: Tobias Harris (19) and Jon Leuer (40) - Both of these guys should make the team and they should be solid. I think Harris could go down as the steal of this draft too (and yes he was at 19, but how many 19s in the past have actually been that good?). (B+)
Minnesota Timberwolves: Derrick Williams (2), Malcolm Lee (43), and Targuy Ngombo (57) - They got Williams and now the question will be, where does he play? They have Love and Beasley and only 2 places to play the 3 of them. Lee is really a point, but he can move over to the 2 and play pretty decently there. The Wolves did a great job in the draft, but they couldn't find a taker that wanted Williams and pay the ransom they were asking, so he ends up in Minny. They have to make some more moves soon. (A-)
New Jersey Nets: Marshon Brooks (25), Bojan Bogdanovic (31), and Jordan Williams (36) - (Editors note: The Bulls will rue the day they didn't take Brooks at 23.) The Nets got them a good guard who can score and defend. And they were able to pick up Williams who reminds me of Lonny Baxter, but hopefully a better version. (B-)
New Orleans Hornets: None
New York Knicks: Iman Shumpert (17) and Josh Harrellson (45) - The Knicks need someone that can hit an occasional 3, create his own shot for when Billups sits, and run a team. They got that in Shumpert (hopefully). We know he can play defense right now. Harrellson provides another big body and he loves to bang. (C+)
Oklahoma City Thunder: Reggie Jackson (24) - Another point guard when they already have two pretty good ones. We'll see how this works. (C)
Orlando Magic: Justin Harper (32) and DeAndre Liggins (53) - Harper brings what Rashard Lewis brought without the $117M price tag, although Ryan Anderson can do the same stuff. Liggins is a tough Chicago prospect that is long and plays defense, but has the ability to put the ball in the hole also. Good pickups, since the Magic need some more heart on that team. (C)
Philadelphia 76ers: Nicola Vucevic (16) and Lavoy Allen (50) - What? You mean to tell me that there weren't other guys on the board that you could have gotten at 16 that could have helped this team? They went for size, but that isn't always the right move. I think this draft haunts the Sixers for a while. (C+)
Phoenix Suns: Markieff Morris (13) - Who would have thought that Markeiff would have been drafted first of the Morris twins. I was never really enthralled with either of them (maybe it's a Kansas bias or something) but to me they are role players on a good team. Morris should get some good looks with Nash still running the show (for now). (C)
Portland Trailblazers: Nolan Smith (21) and Jon Diebler (51) - Wow!!! That's the first thing that came to mind. I think Nolan is a baller, and he can do a lot. He'll have opportunities in Portland. He's a good combo guard that has a knack for passing. Diebler is a shooter. Not quite Jimmer range but a shooter none the less. We'll see what happens in Portland. (B-)
Sacramento Kings: Jimmer Fredette (10), Tyler Honeycutte (35) and Isaiah Thomas (60) - The Kings had a great draft in my opinion. They got Jimmer and Honeycutte is a player too. Thomas at 60 was a great pick. Now this team just has to be coached up and Jimmer has to be given free range to fire when he gets on the floor. (B+)
San Antonio Spurs: Kawhi Leonard (15), Cory Joseph (29), Davis Bertans (42) and Adam Hanga (59) - The Spurs gave up George Hill, but they got two picks out of that and Kawhi Leonard and Bertans might be worth it. You can never go wrong on a 2 for 1, so we'll have to see. Now if only the Spurs can find a taker for that $40M they gave Richard Jefferson, the world would be great. (A)
Toronto Raptors: Jonas Valanciunas (5) - They got their guy and he's a euro, who would have thunk it? The bad part is that Jonas may not see the NBA for YEARS. (D)
Utah Jazz: Enes Kanter (3) and Alec Burks (12) - Great draft for the Jazz. They got size in Kanter (who wants to be a wrestler, wow!!) and they have a scorer in Burks. If Burks works on his game, he's gonna be niiiicccccceeee. (A)
Washington Wizards: Jan Vesley (6), Chris Singleton (18) and Shelvin Mack (34) - Great job for the Wizards. They got another athlete to run with Wall and McGee in Vesley, they have a big that can score and play some defense in Singleton and Shelvin Mack will be that guy that will kill you if you leave him open. Like these pickups. (A)
What did your favorite team do? Are you crying in your beer or jumping for joy today? Hopefully all of these folks will be able to get some practice in with their teams before the lockout. Don't want to waste anyone's rookie season.
Atlanta Hawks: Keith Benson (48) - Well, he's tall and you can't teach height, but that's about it. He's 6'11" and he weighs 217lbs. Paperweight. (C-)
Boston Celtics: JaJuan Johnson (27) and E'Twaune Moore (55) - The Celtics really didn't have any good picks in this draft but I think got quality players. Johnson can play the 4 spot and may spend some time at the 5. He is on the slight side (see Benson, Keith) at 6'10" and 220lbs, but Johnson put up some good numbers in a good conference (Big Ten). The 2.3 blocks per game that he averaged should translate to a Celtics team easily. His teammate at Purdue and now with the Celtics, Moore is a solid player. Someone that can come in and play a role similar to what Tony Allen used to be for them, but with the athleticism. For a team that isn't that deep anymore, the Celtics made some good picks. (B+)
Charlotte Bobcats: Bismack Biyombo (7) and Kemba Walker (9) - I'm not sold on Biyombo. The funny thing that I saw during the draft was that Jordan was impressed with him during a late workout leading up to the draft, and the first response I saw was that he was impressed with Kwame Brown a few years ago too. After trading away all of your offense (Gerald Wallace and Stephen Jackson), they needed someone who could put point on the board (and they may have gotten him in their other pick), but Biyombo doesn't quite fit that mold. Kemba is a winner. He's got 'it' (and maybe LeBron doesn't?!) and that's what the Bobcats are going to need. It looks like they are going to run about 100 pick and rolls a game on offense and try to lock people down on the wings with Henderson and Biyombo and hope the clock runs out. (C+)
Chicago Bulls: Nikola Mirotic (23) and Jimmy Butler (30) - What?!?!? You saw what happened to your team in the playoffs and you go and get a guy that may never even come to the NBA?!?! And you need a 2 guard in the worst way? Butler is a decent player out of Marquette (so he's local), but I'm not sure he can score like the Bulls need. What's so ironic is that the Bulls traded up to get Mirotic at 23 (Jordan) and this is a night that even Mike did a better job than his old team. (C-)
Cleveland Cavaliers: Kyrie Irving (1), Tristan Thompson (4), and Milan Macvan (54) - This was a home run, but instead of going out of the stadium it got hung up in the cheap seats. Irving was a no-brainer as he will be your PG for the next 10 years. Tristan Thompson, well,.......this had to be a reach. I mean I think the kid has game. I felt that if Texas would have gone to him more they probably would have played in the title game. He can finish with both hands and can step out and hit a jumper. My issue is he's 6'8" and that's really it. I couldn't tell you who Macvan is if he walked into my house and had dinner with me and my family. (A-)
Dallas Mavericks: Rudy Fernandez (trade) - They actually picked Jordan Hamilton out of Texas and then traded him to Denver. The Mavericks are looking at repeating and Fernandez has wanted out of Portland for over a year. Makes Dallas that much stronger if they get Tough Juice (Caron Butler) back also.
Denver Nuggets: Kenneth Faried (22), Jordan Hamilton (26), and Chukwudiebere Maduabum (56) - Unless Faried turns into Ben Wallace Part II, I'm not sold on him. He should translate well for this team on the defensive side of the ball, especially with Kenyon Martin coming to the end of the road. Jordan Hamilton, is good, but how is he getting PT? They got Chandler (who I am really starting to like) and Danillo (who reminds me of Toni Kukoc). The Nuggets did get Andre Miller in a trade, but I expect him to be cut to save some money on their books. I think this was a bad night in Denver. And for CM, it took me 5 minutes to type his name, no way they make an NBA jersey for him. (C)
Detroit Pistons: Brandon Knight (8), Kyle Singler (33), and Vernon Macklin (52) - Brandon Knight will be a good fit for this team. His height at the PG spot will allow Ben Gordon to play defense (and yes I laughed when I typed this) on someone his size as Knight will probably guard some of the bigger 2 guards in the league. Kyle Singler, well,....he was available and at 33, that's good quality. Let's get this straight, the kid is tough, can score, but just needs to work on being consistent. There were too many games last year when he let his Duke team down by going 2 of 14 or something like that. Macklin brings a big body to the team and not sure what else. (B)
Golden State Warriors: Klay Thompson (11), Jeremy Tyler (39), and Charles Jenkins (44) - I actually like this draft for the Warriors. Monta Ellis' bags should have been packed as soon as he heard K-l-a-y. Thompson is a big 2 guard that can score and that should have made Curry happy all night long. Tyler was the kid that left high school his junior year, went overseas to play (to make some money), ended up leaving that team and coming home and sitting until he could enter the draft. He's a big kid and has good feet. I think with Mark Jackson there, he'll have an opportunity to be coached up and he could possibly be the steal of this draft. Jenkins can also put the ball in the bucket and may be a help off the bench. The question is will they be able to stop anyone. (Editor's note: Get off of Mark Jackson, yes he promised playoffs, but he didn't say what year). (B+)
Houston Rockets: Marcus Morris (14), Donatas Montiejunas (20), and Chandler Parsons (38) - Don't know what to say. The guys they drafted play the positions of the guys that are already in front of them. Doesn't look like these kids will play. If the goal is to move Morris to the 3, this is a terrible draft for the Rockets. (C+)
Indiana Pacers: George Hill (trade) - They actually drafted Kawhi Leonard and traded him to the Spurs for Hill. I like Hill, but they are loaded on the wings and the backcourt. Yes, Hill brings some leadership from a winning franchise and they have enough young pieces, but now they gotta make them work. (B-)
Los Angeles Clippers: Trey Thompkins (37) and Travis Leslie (47) - Not sure what happened here except that someone in Georgia must like the Clippers. I don't expect either of these guys to even make the team. (D)
Los Angeles Lakers: Darius Morris (41), Andrew Goudelock (46), and Ater Majok (58) - Who? Who? Who? (D)
Memphis Grizzlies: Josh Selby (49) - How in the world did this happen? I mean Selby was once considered the best high school basketball player in the country and then went to Kansas and got hurt and made some dumb decisions, but how did he fall all the way to 49 and into the laps of the Grizzlies. He can score and can run with Vasquez in that second unit. The question is what do the Grizzlies do with OJ Mayo? (B-)
Miami Heat: Norris Cole (28) - This is funny, the Heat pick a guy (born in Dayton, OH) from Cleveland State to play for them. Anyway, Cole is the point guard that they can use. I like Chalmers but many are saying that this kid will be an upgrade. We'll see what happens from here. (B)
Milwaukee Bucks: Tobias Harris (19) and Jon Leuer (40) - Both of these guys should make the team and they should be solid. I think Harris could go down as the steal of this draft too (and yes he was at 19, but how many 19s in the past have actually been that good?). (B+)
Minnesota Timberwolves: Derrick Williams (2), Malcolm Lee (43), and Targuy Ngombo (57) - They got Williams and now the question will be, where does he play? They have Love and Beasley and only 2 places to play the 3 of them. Lee is really a point, but he can move over to the 2 and play pretty decently there. The Wolves did a great job in the draft, but they couldn't find a taker that wanted Williams and pay the ransom they were asking, so he ends up in Minny. They have to make some more moves soon. (A-)
New Jersey Nets: Marshon Brooks (25), Bojan Bogdanovic (31), and Jordan Williams (36) - (Editors note: The Bulls will rue the day they didn't take Brooks at 23.) The Nets got them a good guard who can score and defend. And they were able to pick up Williams who reminds me of Lonny Baxter, but hopefully a better version. (B-)
New Orleans Hornets: None
New York Knicks: Iman Shumpert (17) and Josh Harrellson (45) - The Knicks need someone that can hit an occasional 3, create his own shot for when Billups sits, and run a team. They got that in Shumpert (hopefully). We know he can play defense right now. Harrellson provides another big body and he loves to bang. (C+)
Oklahoma City Thunder: Reggie Jackson (24) - Another point guard when they already have two pretty good ones. We'll see how this works. (C)
Orlando Magic: Justin Harper (32) and DeAndre Liggins (53) - Harper brings what Rashard Lewis brought without the $117M price tag, although Ryan Anderson can do the same stuff. Liggins is a tough Chicago prospect that is long and plays defense, but has the ability to put the ball in the hole also. Good pickups, since the Magic need some more heart on that team. (C)
Philadelphia 76ers: Nicola Vucevic (16) and Lavoy Allen (50) - What? You mean to tell me that there weren't other guys on the board that you could have gotten at 16 that could have helped this team? They went for size, but that isn't always the right move. I think this draft haunts the Sixers for a while. (C+)
Phoenix Suns: Markieff Morris (13) - Who would have thought that Markeiff would have been drafted first of the Morris twins. I was never really enthralled with either of them (maybe it's a Kansas bias or something) but to me they are role players on a good team. Morris should get some good looks with Nash still running the show (for now). (C)
Portland Trailblazers: Nolan Smith (21) and Jon Diebler (51) - Wow!!! That's the first thing that came to mind. I think Nolan is a baller, and he can do a lot. He'll have opportunities in Portland. He's a good combo guard that has a knack for passing. Diebler is a shooter. Not quite Jimmer range but a shooter none the less. We'll see what happens in Portland. (B-)
Sacramento Kings: Jimmer Fredette (10), Tyler Honeycutte (35) and Isaiah Thomas (60) - The Kings had a great draft in my opinion. They got Jimmer and Honeycutte is a player too. Thomas at 60 was a great pick. Now this team just has to be coached up and Jimmer has to be given free range to fire when he gets on the floor. (B+)
San Antonio Spurs: Kawhi Leonard (15), Cory Joseph (29), Davis Bertans (42) and Adam Hanga (59) - The Spurs gave up George Hill, but they got two picks out of that and Kawhi Leonard and Bertans might be worth it. You can never go wrong on a 2 for 1, so we'll have to see. Now if only the Spurs can find a taker for that $40M they gave Richard Jefferson, the world would be great. (A)
Toronto Raptors: Jonas Valanciunas (5) - They got their guy and he's a euro, who would have thunk it? The bad part is that Jonas may not see the NBA for YEARS. (D)
Utah Jazz: Enes Kanter (3) and Alec Burks (12) - Great draft for the Jazz. They got size in Kanter (who wants to be a wrestler, wow!!) and they have a scorer in Burks. If Burks works on his game, he's gonna be niiiicccccceeee. (A)
Washington Wizards: Jan Vesley (6), Chris Singleton (18) and Shelvin Mack (34) - Great job for the Wizards. They got another athlete to run with Wall and McGee in Vesley, they have a big that can score and play some defense in Singleton and Shelvin Mack will be that guy that will kill you if you leave him open. Like these pickups. (A)
What did your favorite team do? Are you crying in your beer or jumping for joy today? Hopefully all of these folks will be able to get some practice in with their teams before the lockout. Don't want to waste anyone's rookie season.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Ron Artest Foolishness
Ok, watching the NBA draft online and I get this,..........Ron Artest. I'm not gonna say it's stupid, but this is almost up there with the Mike Tyson tattoo when we talk about bad ideas.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
2011 NBA Draft Rumors and Notes
Tomorrow night is it, the 2011 NBA Draft, and the Cleveland Cavaliers are on the clock with the #1 pick. As usual the rumors are spreading like wildfire as teams are doing their best to hide their interest in a certain player so that they don't have to move up in the draft to get them. With all of this misdirection you tend to get lots of rumors, so let's take a look at a few and we'll discuss my take on them. First up,.......
Lakers - Trade Pau Gasol to Minnesota for Kevin Love and #2 pick.
Synopsis: If you can get Minny to accept this deal, I do it all day long. Not only can the Lakers get back Love who will work the boards (unlike Pau) but they also get an opportunity to draft a young player (I think Derrick Williams to address their SF need). They lose some of the scoring that Pau provided at the beginning of last season, but still I'd do this everyday of the week and twice on Sunday.
Spurs - Trade Tony Parker for a pick to either the Toronto Raptors (#5) or the Sacramento Kings (#7).
Synopsis: I like George Hill but I don't think that this is a good move for the Spurs. Who's the best player you can get at 5 through 7? In this week draft class you're better off holding on to Parker and maybe doing this next year. Just say 'no'.
Suns - Trade Steve Nash to Minnesota for the #2 pick.
Synopsis: You could probably get a better deal if you're Phoenix. I understand wanting to draft Derrick Williams (local kid) but, Minny would have to include a player or something. Nash might have a year or two left in him and the only reason I say that is that the training staff in Phoenix has to be the best in the league. They have taken all types of players with ailments and got them playing and playing at a high level when most thought they were done (i.e. - Shaq (all), Grant Hill (ankle), Nash (back), etc.). If Nash were to leave, would he fall apart? Or would he welcome being that close to home? I wouldn't do this one, but at least we're negotiating.
Suns - Trade Marcin Gortat and the #13 pick to Minnesota for the #2 pick.
Synopsis: Now we're cooking with grease. I actually like Gortat for what he does (rebounder, can score, and has an attitude), but if we weigh the careers of Gortat against that of anyone that you'd get at #2, I'll take those chances. Plus, I keep Nash and we are still viable in the Western Conference. Do the d$@( thing.
Nuggets - Trade Raymond Felton and the #22 pick to Sacramento for the #7 pick.
Synopsis: Hmmm,...not sure about this one. The two headed point guard monster in Denver seems to work and I think you have to keep that moving in that direction. Not sure who the Nuggets would go after at the #7 slot unless they would go after Kemba Walker. I don't know how good a fit that would be. They are trying to lock up Nene long term, Afflalo is solid at either guard spot, and they are pretty much loaded. I can't quite put my finger on what they're missing, but it's something that I don't think they get at #7 in this draft. Hold your horses on this one.
Cavaliers - Trade the #4 pick to the Wizards for the #6 and the #18.
Synopsis: It seems as though the Cavs are intent on drafting Jonas Valanciunas. Since he won't be playing in the NBA next season, the Cavs don't want to waste a higher pick for him because they need all the help they can get and they'd like someone to give up multiple picks to make this a little more enticing. The Wizards would draft Enes Kanter with the #4 pick and this deal could only be done if he's available at 4. Seems like things are working out for the Cavs even after LBJ leaves. I do this deal and get extra players on the cheap or more trade chips.
Suns - Trade Robin Lopez to Golden State for Epke Udoh and the #13 pick.
Synopsis: Whew, this is a big one. You would give up on Lopez this quickly? He had a good year, then a bad year and he's trending down? As my guy NYSTOM always says, you can't turn down a 2 for 1 deal, but I think I could turn this one down. I'm not sold on Udoh being a center in the West and I just see him getting killed by Andrew Bynum, Nene and any other 'big' in the West.
Sixers - Trade Andre Iguodala to Los Angeles Clippers for Chris Kaman OR to Golden State for Monta Ellis OR to Orlando for Hedo Turkoglu and Jameer Nelson.
Synopsis: The Sixers and Clippers seem to have the best deal that works for both teams. The Sixers need some size to play next to a smallish PF in Brand. The Clippers need Kaman to move to give Jordan more time and this will keep Griffin in that PF spot. I do this deal even though it would involve some other smaller pieces. The Sixers and Golden State I like for Golden State. They could slide Iggy into the 2 or 3 spot and instantly have some size. Curry can evolve into a better point guard and Lee and Iggy would take some pressure off of Curry. The Sixers and Orlando, well,......it's a 2 for 1, that's a plus. I think that Turkoglu is better with the ball in his hands (the way he was before he left Orlando) but off the ball he's a liability. Jameer would have to take a bench role which would be tough for him. Just not a good fit.
What have you heard? What's the word on the street? What do you think about these prospective deals? I will post more as I hear it.
Lakers - Trade Pau Gasol to Minnesota for Kevin Love and #2 pick.
Synopsis: If you can get Minny to accept this deal, I do it all day long. Not only can the Lakers get back Love who will work the boards (unlike Pau) but they also get an opportunity to draft a young player (I think Derrick Williams to address their SF need). They lose some of the scoring that Pau provided at the beginning of last season, but still I'd do this everyday of the week and twice on Sunday.
Spurs - Trade Tony Parker for a pick to either the Toronto Raptors (#5) or the Sacramento Kings (#7).
Synopsis: I like George Hill but I don't think that this is a good move for the Spurs. Who's the best player you can get at 5 through 7? In this week draft class you're better off holding on to Parker and maybe doing this next year. Just say 'no'.
Suns - Trade Steve Nash to Minnesota for the #2 pick.
Synopsis: You could probably get a better deal if you're Phoenix. I understand wanting to draft Derrick Williams (local kid) but, Minny would have to include a player or something. Nash might have a year or two left in him and the only reason I say that is that the training staff in Phoenix has to be the best in the league. They have taken all types of players with ailments and got them playing and playing at a high level when most thought they were done (i.e. - Shaq (all), Grant Hill (ankle), Nash (back), etc.). If Nash were to leave, would he fall apart? Or would he welcome being that close to home? I wouldn't do this one, but at least we're negotiating.
Suns - Trade Marcin Gortat and the #13 pick to Minnesota for the #2 pick.
Synopsis: Now we're cooking with grease. I actually like Gortat for what he does (rebounder, can score, and has an attitude), but if we weigh the careers of Gortat against that of anyone that you'd get at #2, I'll take those chances. Plus, I keep Nash and we are still viable in the Western Conference. Do the d$@( thing.
Nuggets - Trade Raymond Felton and the #22 pick to Sacramento for the #7 pick.
Synopsis: Hmmm,...not sure about this one. The two headed point guard monster in Denver seems to work and I think you have to keep that moving in that direction. Not sure who the Nuggets would go after at the #7 slot unless they would go after Kemba Walker. I don't know how good a fit that would be. They are trying to lock up Nene long term, Afflalo is solid at either guard spot, and they are pretty much loaded. I can't quite put my finger on what they're missing, but it's something that I don't think they get at #7 in this draft. Hold your horses on this one.
Cavaliers - Trade the #4 pick to the Wizards for the #6 and the #18.
Synopsis: It seems as though the Cavs are intent on drafting Jonas Valanciunas. Since he won't be playing in the NBA next season, the Cavs don't want to waste a higher pick for him because they need all the help they can get and they'd like someone to give up multiple picks to make this a little more enticing. The Wizards would draft Enes Kanter with the #4 pick and this deal could only be done if he's available at 4. Seems like things are working out for the Cavs even after LBJ leaves. I do this deal and get extra players on the cheap or more trade chips.
Suns - Trade Robin Lopez to Golden State for Epke Udoh and the #13 pick.
Synopsis: Whew, this is a big one. You would give up on Lopez this quickly? He had a good year, then a bad year and he's trending down? As my guy NYSTOM always says, you can't turn down a 2 for 1 deal, but I think I could turn this one down. I'm not sold on Udoh being a center in the West and I just see him getting killed by Andrew Bynum, Nene and any other 'big' in the West.
Sixers - Trade Andre Iguodala to Los Angeles Clippers for Chris Kaman OR to Golden State for Monta Ellis OR to Orlando for Hedo Turkoglu and Jameer Nelson.
Synopsis: The Sixers and Clippers seem to have the best deal that works for both teams. The Sixers need some size to play next to a smallish PF in Brand. The Clippers need Kaman to move to give Jordan more time and this will keep Griffin in that PF spot. I do this deal even though it would involve some other smaller pieces. The Sixers and Golden State I like for Golden State. They could slide Iggy into the 2 or 3 spot and instantly have some size. Curry can evolve into a better point guard and Lee and Iggy would take some pressure off of Curry. The Sixers and Orlando, well,......it's a 2 for 1, that's a plus. I think that Turkoglu is better with the ball in his hands (the way he was before he left Orlando) but off the ball he's a liability. Jameer would have to take a bench role which would be tough for him. Just not a good fit.
What have you heard? What's the word on the street? What do you think about these prospective deals? I will post more as I hear it.
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