This year my lineup ended up like this:
QB - Philip Rivers, SD
RB - Adrian Peterson, MIN
RB - Brandon Jacobs, NYG
WR - Miles Austin, DAL
WR - Roy E. Williams, DAL
WR - Steve Smith, NYG
TE - Dallas Clark, IND
K - Lawrence Tynes, NYG
DST - Cardinals
I made it to Super Bowl for our league, and I had RB Cadillac Williams on the bench, but then the Giants go get stomped by the Panthers. Brandon Jacobs got me zero fantasy points while Cadillac scored 19. I lost my game by four points. I still could have won if AP hadn't fumbled the ball. The agony of defeat. And I'm glad the Giants won't be in the playoffs this year due to this.
Since the Colts' management sucks and decided to bail on trying for a perfect season, I have less invested in the Super Bowl this year. AFC will come down to Colts and Chargers, surely, unless the Bengals or Patriots get really lucky. NFC is wide open. The once mighty-looking Saints and Vikings have been dropping, and it all comes down to the Eagles-Cowboys game in Week 17.
Right now I'm guessing it's going to be the Colts vs. Eagles.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
Colts vs. Saints, please!
In the NFL I am primarily a Seattle Seahawks fan, followed by the Oakland Raiders. It's pretty a rought twenty years. Both teams have been to the Super Bowl once in that span, each to a loss. After that, well, I like some teams.
This year I am an Indianapolis Colts fan and a New Orleans Saints fan.
THE COLTS - I like Peyton Manning. Dude's funny. If you make a list of Top Ten Best SNL Hosts of the Past Decade, he makes the list. His dance routine with Will Forte to "Casino Royale" gets me every time. His commercials were great. None of that matters on the field.
On the field, he is feared. No one's been responsible for more final-drive victories this year. Opposing teams make dumb decisions based on their fear of Peyton Manning. Why else would the Hoodie opt to go for on 4th-and-2 deep in their own territory when they were ahead? because he didn't believe his defense, the Patriots defense, the three-time Super Bowl championship defense, could keep Peyton Manning from scoring a touchdown.
They lose Marvin Harrison. No problem; they have Antonio Gonzalez. They lose Gonzalez. No problem. Peyton helps Reggie Wayne get Pro Bowler numbers and makes Austin Collie the steal of the draft. And with Peyton playing so well, Joseph Addai is able to run against some defenses who have to consider the pass on every play.
THE SAINTS - Drew Brees was booted from San Diego too early, but it was a win-win. The Saints, the underdog for a decade, always getting those 8-8 seasons, are legitimate, and it's thanks to the bombs from Brees's arm. The Saints look great in every game. Who's going to get you this week? Will it be Colston? Henderson? Reggie Bush? Who knows?
Their defensive numbers don't look great, but they always do just enough. And when you look at that Redskins win, they have luck on their side too. They're a team you can have faith in, because they win some by miracles too.
But most importantly, they're both undefeated and could realistically face each other in the Super Bowl. I want that Super Bowl. Undefeated vs. Undefeated. It'd be the biggest Super Bowl in history.
And then the 1972 Dolphins would fade away forever. Poof!
This year I am an Indianapolis Colts fan and a New Orleans Saints fan.
THE COLTS - I like Peyton Manning. Dude's funny. If you make a list of Top Ten Best SNL Hosts of the Past Decade, he makes the list. His dance routine with Will Forte to "Casino Royale" gets me every time. His commercials were great. None of that matters on the field.
On the field, he is feared. No one's been responsible for more final-drive victories this year. Opposing teams make dumb decisions based on their fear of Peyton Manning. Why else would the Hoodie opt to go for on 4th-and-2 deep in their own territory when they were ahead? because he didn't believe his defense, the Patriots defense, the three-time Super Bowl championship defense, could keep Peyton Manning from scoring a touchdown.
They lose Marvin Harrison. No problem; they have Antonio Gonzalez. They lose Gonzalez. No problem. Peyton helps Reggie Wayne get Pro Bowler numbers and makes Austin Collie the steal of the draft. And with Peyton playing so well, Joseph Addai is able to run against some defenses who have to consider the pass on every play.
THE SAINTS - Drew Brees was booted from San Diego too early, but it was a win-win. The Saints, the underdog for a decade, always getting those 8-8 seasons, are legitimate, and it's thanks to the bombs from Brees's arm. The Saints look great in every game. Who's going to get you this week? Will it be Colston? Henderson? Reggie Bush? Who knows?
Their defensive numbers don't look great, but they always do just enough. And when you look at that Redskins win, they have luck on their side too. They're a team you can have faith in, because they win some by miracles too.
But most importantly, they're both undefeated and could realistically face each other in the Super Bowl. I want that Super Bowl. Undefeated vs. Undefeated. It'd be the biggest Super Bowl in history.
And then the 1972 Dolphins would fade away forever. Poof!
Leave It to the BCS
The BCS has found a way to still suck.
Since the ignoramuses in charge of this thing stubbornly refuse to put in a playoff system and let this thing be decided on the field instead of by a computer, I can understand why Alabama and Texas are in the title game. The one that infuriates me is that undefeated TCU is going to face undefeated Boise State.
The six BCS conferences, with the help of the compliant sports media, tries to act like the other conferences don't exist, and if they do, they're the cute junior-varsity kids doing their little games. In the past five years, four non-BCS schools have broken in with undefeated records, and three of them won. They've never had a chance at a title. This year two non-BCS schools made it through. No title chance. And then what does the BCS do? It makes them play each other.
It ghetto-izes the non-BCS schools. I would much rather see TCU vs. Florida or Cincinnnati vs. Boise St. What is the BCS so afraid of? They chortled when Hawaii squeaked in and got crushed. But let's play this out.
The Big East, traditonally the weakest of the six BCS conferences in football, is barely hanging on to its automatic-bid status. Cincinnati beating Florida would be huge, but TCU beating Florida would create true exposures, like underlining why Florida chooses cakewalk non-conference games every year. Maybe it's easy for the SEC to say they're the best conference when their top schools don't take on top talent. Oklahoma rolled the dice on putting BYU on their schedule and got burned. See also Oregon v. Boise St.
It's too late this year to right the wrong of TCU vs. Boise St., which is a rematch from their Bowl game last year, but now it'll be played on a BCS stage, if not against a BCS opponent. Next year, although I'm sure the Powers That Be are praying that either one or none of the non-BCS teams go undefeated again, IF they have a WAC and MWC team go undefeated next year, and only one or none of the BCS teams go undefeated, they have to let one in the National Championship Game.
It's gotten so bad, Congress is investigating. The sooner they put in a playoff system, the better.
Since the ignoramuses in charge of this thing stubbornly refuse to put in a playoff system and let this thing be decided on the field instead of by a computer, I can understand why Alabama and Texas are in the title game. The one that infuriates me is that undefeated TCU is going to face undefeated Boise State.
The six BCS conferences, with the help of the compliant sports media, tries to act like the other conferences don't exist, and if they do, they're the cute junior-varsity kids doing their little games. In the past five years, four non-BCS schools have broken in with undefeated records, and three of them won. They've never had a chance at a title. This year two non-BCS schools made it through. No title chance. And then what does the BCS do? It makes them play each other.
It ghetto-izes the non-BCS schools. I would much rather see TCU vs. Florida or Cincinnnati vs. Boise St. What is the BCS so afraid of? They chortled when Hawaii squeaked in and got crushed. But let's play this out.
The Big East, traditonally the weakest of the six BCS conferences in football, is barely hanging on to its automatic-bid status. Cincinnati beating Florida would be huge, but TCU beating Florida would create true exposures, like underlining why Florida chooses cakewalk non-conference games every year. Maybe it's easy for the SEC to say they're the best conference when their top schools don't take on top talent. Oklahoma rolled the dice on putting BYU on their schedule and got burned. See also Oregon v. Boise St.
It's too late this year to right the wrong of TCU vs. Boise St., which is a rematch from their Bowl game last year, but now it'll be played on a BCS stage, if not against a BCS opponent. Next year, although I'm sure the Powers That Be are praying that either one or none of the non-BCS teams go undefeated again, IF they have a WAC and MWC team go undefeated next year, and only one or none of the BCS teams go undefeated, they have to let one in the National Championship Game.
It's gotten so bad, Congress is investigating. The sooner they put in a playoff system, the better.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Hail, Kyrylo Fesenko!
Individual stats don't really tell that clear a story, but one interesting one that jumps out for me is that according to 82games.com, Kyrylo Fesenko has the highest offensive efficiency rating on the Utah Jazz, with a 1.12, and the highest defensive efficiency rating (1.01). That can either tell that the first few games of the season, when the Jazz went 4-6, really screwed up the team's individual stats, or Fesenko's focus on defense and non-factor on offense makes the other four guys on the floor more effective.
All I know is the Jazz are 4-0 when Big Fes starts, and since that 4-6 start, they've gone 6-1.
All I know is the Jazz are 4-0 when Big Fes starts, and since that 4-6 start, they've gone 6-1.
Monday, November 16, 2009
NBA Power Rankings
I am taking advantage of having NBA TV, watching more games and highlights of games.
Western Conference
1. PHOENIX - Once the Big Cactus was deported, this team has been able to return to its run-n-gun ways. Steve Nash has found the Fountain of Youth, and he's sharing with Grant Hill. Amare Stoudamire is continuing in All-Star form, their bench is deep and versatile. It's 2006 again, only I imagine the officiating will be better in the playoffs this year. Hmm...
2. DENVER - Carmelo Anthony is a punk no more, thanks to his new big brother Chauncey Billups. Nene is a beast. Kenyon Martin, freaky neck tattoos notwithstanding, is contributing more this year than he has ever since he signed with the club. Ty Lawson's a steal of a backup point guard. Denver will be a powerhouse for years to come.
3. L.A. LAKERS - Kobe's still Kobe, and Ron-Ron has fit right in, but I can't help but feel they might be undefeated right now if they had Pau Gasol back.
4. DALLAS - The offseason acquisition of Shawn Marion was brilliant. Kidd & Dirk have that third All-Star to really rely on.
5. PORTLAND - Now that the foolish experiment of bring Andre Miller off the bench has ended, and Greg Oden is finally playing up to potential, this is one scary team.
6. SAN ANTONIO - They're keeping their heads above water as they wade through these injuries. As least they have Antonio McDyess and George Hill playing consistent in their roles.
7. SACRAMENTO - On paper this team looked gutted, but Tyreke Evans was a great draft pick, Jason Thompson is blossoming, and the team is benefitting from Andres Nocioni's toughness. And they have this Kevin Martin kid too. I give much credit to coaching journeyman Paul Westphal.
8. HOUSTON - No T-Mac, no Yao, no problem. Aaron Brooks, Trevor Ariza, Luis Scola and Shane Battier are good enough to keep them competitive each night.
9. UTAH - Still suffering from injury issues (CJ Miles, Kyle Korver, Matt Harpring, Ronnie Price...), they also seem to be suffering from chemistry issues. Boozer and Millsap have been wildly inconsistent, maybe because both wish the other one wasn't there. But a light of hope shone when they were able to dominate Philly without Deron Williams, and their pencil-thin rookie point guard Eric Maynor was able to go 13 pts, 11asts in his first NBA start. Undrafted rookie Wesley Mathews has been a pleasant surprise too.
10. OKLAHOMA CITY - This team's always seemed like it was a year away from breaking out, but they seem to actually be doing it now. James Harden's been the perfect compliment to the already-good trio of Durant, Westbrook and Green.
11. L.A. CLIPPERS - Their record's not great, but Chris Kaman has really been carrying the load, and they should jump up once Blake Griffin gets back.
12. NEW ORLEANS - Byron Scott should have known when he won Coach of the Year that the end was nigh. A bigger problem with this team is the owner. Trading Tyson Chandler for Emeka Okafor? Letting Rasual Butler walk for nothing? How much are you paying Mo Peterson again? And now Chris Paul's ankle is in question.
13. GOLDEN STATE - This team will stay in disarray as long as Stephen Jackson is there, but there's been enough interest from other teams that the Warriors should be able to get a decent trade, and then the development of Stephen Curry can continue in wild Nellie-Ball peace.
14. MEMPHIS - Signing Allen Iverson was a bad idea. The bright-side is that A.I.'s meltdown happened so quickly that they should be able to just cut him loose and move on. But Mike Conley hasn't shown he can a starting point guard and a winner, and Haseem Thabeet was looking suspiciously like a draft bust before his broken jaw.
15. MINNESOTA - Jonny Flynn's good, and they still have Al Jefferson and Kevin Love. Yeah, that's about it.
Eastern
1. BOSTON - Rasheed Wallace was a good pick-up, but the real key has been the return of a healthy Kevin Garnett. Their defense is destroying teams.
2. ATLANTA - They are for real. They have to be taken seriously. Joe Johnson deserves some pub, Mike Bibby is doing for this team what made Sacto so fun a few years ago, Josh Smith and Al Horford are getting their numbers. Jamal Crawford was a steal. Teamwork's really doing the job for them.
3. ORLANDO - How good will they be with Dwight Howard, Rashard Lewis, Vince Carter and Jameer Nelson all on the floor at the same time?
4. MIAMI - They're this good because Dwyane Wade is that good, but Jermaine O'Neal is actually looking better this year than last year. Still has to thin a supporting cast.
5. CLEVELAND - After that weird 0-2 start, they seem to be figuring it out, but I'm not convinced Shaq's going to be what puts them over the top. I think they'll go far in the playoffs, but the $20 million off their books next year will be more important to them. But LeBron is the best player in the league, so he may find the way.
6. MILKWAUKEE - How are they doing this good this soon? Brandon Jennings may inspire more high-schoolers to go overseas for a year.
7. TORONTO - Hedo Turkoglu was a good signing, Bargnani's improved, Bosh is doing his 20-10 thing, and Jose Calderon is a good floor general. They just need more consistency on the road.
8. CHICAGO - If the ref counted Brad Miller's shot, and the refs couldn't overturn it in under a minute, then the call should've stood. Anyway, Derrick Rose will probably be an All-Star this year, Joakim Noah has finally got his head on straight, and Luol Deng is being his reliable old self. So do they trade away Kirk Hinrich?
9. DETROIT - Ben Gordon and Charlie Villenueva fit in fine, but they fit on a .500 team. Rodney Stuckey is not Chauncey Billups, but Ben Wallace is playing his best in years. I'm guessing Rip Hamilton or Tayshaun Prince gets shipped out midseason.
10. INDIANA - Danny Granger's team has started off exactly as I would have expected.
11. PHILADELPHIA - 76ers look lost without Andre Miller. Lou Williams isn't an adequate replacement, so Andre Iguodala and Elton brand can't be as effective without that floor general.
12. CHARLOTTE - Tyson Chandler has fit in to the Bobcats, but you can't say they're that much better. They're still playing like a lottery team, and if Larry Brown still can't turn them around, is it time to give someone else a shot?
13. WASHINGTON - They need Antawn Jamison back, but it might be too late. Losing got into their blood-stream last year, and it's going to be a difficult virus to purge.
14. NEW YORK - What max-player guy would want to sign on to this ship that's been sinking for eight years now? They don't even have a first-round pick next year to give them hope. So what if it's "the Knicks"? If the money's the same, wouldn't a player want to go somewhere where he can win?
15. NEW JERSEY - They gutted their team in the Vince Carter trade, and then Devin Harris went down. The lone bright spot has been the production from Brook Lopez.
Western Conference
1. PHOENIX - Once the Big Cactus was deported, this team has been able to return to its run-n-gun ways. Steve Nash has found the Fountain of Youth, and he's sharing with Grant Hill. Amare Stoudamire is continuing in All-Star form, their bench is deep and versatile. It's 2006 again, only I imagine the officiating will be better in the playoffs this year. Hmm...
2. DENVER - Carmelo Anthony is a punk no more, thanks to his new big brother Chauncey Billups. Nene is a beast. Kenyon Martin, freaky neck tattoos notwithstanding, is contributing more this year than he has ever since he signed with the club. Ty Lawson's a steal of a backup point guard. Denver will be a powerhouse for years to come.
3. L.A. LAKERS - Kobe's still Kobe, and Ron-Ron has fit right in, but I can't help but feel they might be undefeated right now if they had Pau Gasol back.
4. DALLAS - The offseason acquisition of Shawn Marion was brilliant. Kidd & Dirk have that third All-Star to really rely on.
5. PORTLAND - Now that the foolish experiment of bring Andre Miller off the bench has ended, and Greg Oden is finally playing up to potential, this is one scary team.
6. SAN ANTONIO - They're keeping their heads above water as they wade through these injuries. As least they have Antonio McDyess and George Hill playing consistent in their roles.
7. SACRAMENTO - On paper this team looked gutted, but Tyreke Evans was a great draft pick, Jason Thompson is blossoming, and the team is benefitting from Andres Nocioni's toughness. And they have this Kevin Martin kid too. I give much credit to coaching journeyman Paul Westphal.
8. HOUSTON - No T-Mac, no Yao, no problem. Aaron Brooks, Trevor Ariza, Luis Scola and Shane Battier are good enough to keep them competitive each night.
9. UTAH - Still suffering from injury issues (CJ Miles, Kyle Korver, Matt Harpring, Ronnie Price...), they also seem to be suffering from chemistry issues. Boozer and Millsap have been wildly inconsistent, maybe because both wish the other one wasn't there. But a light of hope shone when they were able to dominate Philly without Deron Williams, and their pencil-thin rookie point guard Eric Maynor was able to go 13 pts, 11asts in his first NBA start. Undrafted rookie Wesley Mathews has been a pleasant surprise too.
10. OKLAHOMA CITY - This team's always seemed like it was a year away from breaking out, but they seem to actually be doing it now. James Harden's been the perfect compliment to the already-good trio of Durant, Westbrook and Green.
11. L.A. CLIPPERS - Their record's not great, but Chris Kaman has really been carrying the load, and they should jump up once Blake Griffin gets back.
12. NEW ORLEANS - Byron Scott should have known when he won Coach of the Year that the end was nigh. A bigger problem with this team is the owner. Trading Tyson Chandler for Emeka Okafor? Letting Rasual Butler walk for nothing? How much are you paying Mo Peterson again? And now Chris Paul's ankle is in question.
13. GOLDEN STATE - This team will stay in disarray as long as Stephen Jackson is there, but there's been enough interest from other teams that the Warriors should be able to get a decent trade, and then the development of Stephen Curry can continue in wild Nellie-Ball peace.
14. MEMPHIS - Signing Allen Iverson was a bad idea. The bright-side is that A.I.'s meltdown happened so quickly that they should be able to just cut him loose and move on. But Mike Conley hasn't shown he can a starting point guard and a winner, and Haseem Thabeet was looking suspiciously like a draft bust before his broken jaw.
15. MINNESOTA - Jonny Flynn's good, and they still have Al Jefferson and Kevin Love. Yeah, that's about it.
Eastern
1. BOSTON - Rasheed Wallace was a good pick-up, but the real key has been the return of a healthy Kevin Garnett. Their defense is destroying teams.
2. ATLANTA - They are for real. They have to be taken seriously. Joe Johnson deserves some pub, Mike Bibby is doing for this team what made Sacto so fun a few years ago, Josh Smith and Al Horford are getting their numbers. Jamal Crawford was a steal. Teamwork's really doing the job for them.
3. ORLANDO - How good will they be with Dwight Howard, Rashard Lewis, Vince Carter and Jameer Nelson all on the floor at the same time?
4. MIAMI - They're this good because Dwyane Wade is that good, but Jermaine O'Neal is actually looking better this year than last year. Still has to thin a supporting cast.
5. CLEVELAND - After that weird 0-2 start, they seem to be figuring it out, but I'm not convinced Shaq's going to be what puts them over the top. I think they'll go far in the playoffs, but the $20 million off their books next year will be more important to them. But LeBron is the best player in the league, so he may find the way.
6. MILKWAUKEE - How are they doing this good this soon? Brandon Jennings may inspire more high-schoolers to go overseas for a year.
7. TORONTO - Hedo Turkoglu was a good signing, Bargnani's improved, Bosh is doing his 20-10 thing, and Jose Calderon is a good floor general. They just need more consistency on the road.
8. CHICAGO - If the ref counted Brad Miller's shot, and the refs couldn't overturn it in under a minute, then the call should've stood. Anyway, Derrick Rose will probably be an All-Star this year, Joakim Noah has finally got his head on straight, and Luol Deng is being his reliable old self. So do they trade away Kirk Hinrich?
9. DETROIT - Ben Gordon and Charlie Villenueva fit in fine, but they fit on a .500 team. Rodney Stuckey is not Chauncey Billups, but Ben Wallace is playing his best in years. I'm guessing Rip Hamilton or Tayshaun Prince gets shipped out midseason.
10. INDIANA - Danny Granger's team has started off exactly as I would have expected.
11. PHILADELPHIA - 76ers look lost without Andre Miller. Lou Williams isn't an adequate replacement, so Andre Iguodala and Elton brand can't be as effective without that floor general.
12. CHARLOTTE - Tyson Chandler has fit in to the Bobcats, but you can't say they're that much better. They're still playing like a lottery team, and if Larry Brown still can't turn them around, is it time to give someone else a shot?
13. WASHINGTON - They need Antawn Jamison back, but it might be too late. Losing got into their blood-stream last year, and it's going to be a difficult virus to purge.
14. NEW YORK - What max-player guy would want to sign on to this ship that's been sinking for eight years now? They don't even have a first-round pick next year to give them hope. So what if it's "the Knicks"? If the money's the same, wouldn't a player want to go somewhere where he can win?
15. NEW JERSEY - They gutted their team in the Vince Carter trade, and then Devin Harris went down. The lone bright spot has been the production from Brook Lopez.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
The +/- stats for the Jazz thru 4 games
These are the plus-minus stats added up through the first four games of the Jazz.
Paul Millsap is the best at a total of +12. The only other two that are positive are Kyrylo Fesenko (+10) and Andrei Kirilenko (+2). When your record is 1-3, odds are most will be in the plus-minus.
The rest:
Deron Williams is -3.
Ronnie Price is -5.
Kosta Koufos is -5.
Wes Matthews is -14.
Eric Maynor is -19. (3 games)
Carlos Boozer is -26.
Ronnie Brewer is -38.
Mehmet Okur is -40. (3 games)
Paul Millsap is the best at a total of +12. The only other two that are positive are Kyrylo Fesenko (+10) and Andrei Kirilenko (+2). When your record is 1-3, odds are most will be in the plus-minus.
The rest:
Deron Williams is -3.
Ronnie Price is -5.
Kosta Koufos is -5.
Wes Matthews is -14.
Eric Maynor is -19. (3 games)
Carlos Boozer is -26.
Ronnie Brewer is -38.
Mehmet Okur is -40. (3 games)
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Jerry Sloan's coaching mistake
The Utah Jazz had a 16-point lead in the 4th quarter against the Mavericks in Dallas. Then Carlos Boozer re-entered the game and Mehmet Okur was made to guard Dirk Nowitski. Dirk came alive. Possession after possession Dirk drove to the basket and either scored a bucket or got free throws. Jerry watched from the sidelines like a deer in headlines as their lead went from 16 to 12 to 10 to 4 to nothing. FInally when the Jazz had completely squandered their lead. And were there any apparent defensive changes? No. Okur stayed on Dirk, Dirk stayed hot, and the Mavs outscored the Jazz 44-18 in the 4th.
The Jazz are now 1-3. Boozer's +/- stat was -27. The first two games the Jazz lost, Millsap and Boozer had bad games. This loss I put squarely on Sloan's shoulders.
The Jazz are now 1-3. Boozer's +/- stat was -27. The first two games the Jazz lost, Millsap and Boozer had bad games. This loss I put squarely on Sloan's shoulders.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Jazz beat Clippers, lose to Rockets
The Jazz beat the Clippers at home, no surprise, but they were embarrassed by the Rockets.
It's another game where Boozer and Millsap played poorly. The Jazz can't win when both guys have bad games. Millsap and Deron Williams fouled out. The one highlight was Andrei Kirlenko. 18 pts, 7 rbs, 1 ast, 2 stls, 3 bks.
If I was Jerry Sloan, I'd give more time to Kyrylo Fesenko and/or Kosta Koufos.
It's another game where Boozer and Millsap played poorly. The Jazz can't win when both guys have bad games. Millsap and Deron Williams fouled out. The one highlight was Andrei Kirlenko. 18 pts, 7 rbs, 1 ast, 2 stls, 3 bks.
If I was Jerry Sloan, I'd give more time to Kyrylo Fesenko and/or Kosta Koufos.
Friday, October 30, 2009
NBA to investigate Donaghy's accusation
Maybe this can finally be Dick Bavetta's final year as an NBA referee. I know Tim Donaghy is the shadiest of sources, but so was Jose Canseco when he blew the whistle on baseball's steroids issue. I just think of those playoff games (2007 Spurs-Suns, 2002 Lakers-Kings, 1998 Jazz-Bulls) that just felt wrong on many levels, and now to have an insider confirming some of this stuff.
Well, let's just say some of Tim's accusations don't past the smell test, but anything with Dick Bavetta does.
Well, let's just say some of Tim's accusations don't past the smell test, but anything with Dick Bavetta does.
Nuggets d. Jazz 114-105
What I saw:
- Deron Williams will be an All-Star this year. Nothing will stop him.
- Andrei Kirilenko played 39 minutes. Of the 9 minutes he wasn't on the floor, the Nuggets outscored the Jazz by 15 points.
- Kyrylo Fesenko did good when he was on the floor.
- But Jerry Sloan has to give floor time to Boozer and Millsap, between them making $23 million. They both played poorly. Boozer kept settling for outside shots that banged off the rim, and Millsap looked scatterbrained, forcing shots, and that braindead pass to D-Will... now Sap's been posterized by Melo.
- The Jazz held their own for three quarters, then fell apart.
- Rookie Ty Lawson deserved to be drafted before rookie Eric Maynor.
- Jazz really need one of their outside-shooters (Korver, Miles) to spread the floor.
- The Nuggets look awesome at home.
- Kenyon "Lips" Martin has one ugly neck tattoo.
So going forward, Boozer and Millsap need to calm down.
- Deron Williams will be an All-Star this year. Nothing will stop him.
- Andrei Kirilenko played 39 minutes. Of the 9 minutes he wasn't on the floor, the Nuggets outscored the Jazz by 15 points.
- Kyrylo Fesenko did good when he was on the floor.
- But Jerry Sloan has to give floor time to Boozer and Millsap, between them making $23 million. They both played poorly. Boozer kept settling for outside shots that banged off the rim, and Millsap looked scatterbrained, forcing shots, and that braindead pass to D-Will... now Sap's been posterized by Melo.
- The Jazz held their own for three quarters, then fell apart.
- Rookie Ty Lawson deserved to be drafted before rookie Eric Maynor.
- Jazz really need one of their outside-shooters (Korver, Miles) to spread the floor.
- The Nuggets look awesome at home.
- Kenyon "Lips" Martin has one ugly neck tattoo.
So going forward, Boozer and Millsap need to calm down.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
NBA Underway
Lakers d. Clippers
Wizards d. Mavericks
Blazers d. Rockets
Celtics d. Cavaliers
I thought the Cavs looked like they had everything under control in the first quarter, but KG showed that he is still very much a factor. Shaq looked good.
Rockets can't win without Yao and T-Mac. They're headed for the lottery.
Clippers looked awful. The Lakers let them back in the game here and there, but the Clips settled for way too many outside shots. Even when Griffin comes back, Baron Davis is their starting point guard and he needs to make better decisions, but he's too old to start changing his ways now.
Thanks, Wizards, for beating the Mavericks. It helps the Jazz.
Wizards d. Mavericks
Blazers d. Rockets
Celtics d. Cavaliers
I thought the Cavs looked like they had everything under control in the first quarter, but KG showed that he is still very much a factor. Shaq looked good.
Rockets can't win without Yao and T-Mac. They're headed for the lottery.
Clippers looked awful. The Lakers let them back in the game here and there, but the Clips settled for way too many outside shots. Even when Griffin comes back, Baron Davis is their starting point guard and he needs to make better decisions, but he's too old to start changing his ways now.
Thanks, Wizards, for beating the Mavericks. It helps the Jazz.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Undefeated Teams
This is shaping up to be a great NFL year.
AFC
Undefeated
The only two left are the Indianapolis COLTS and the Denver BRONCOS. I still think the Broncos are the luckiest 5-0 team ever, but they really showed something in beating the Patriots. Meanwhile the Colts look unstoppable. They ironed out some kinks in Week 1, but their defense is playing as good as ever, and Peyton manning says "No Marvin harrison, no Anthony Gonzalez, no problem." It doesn't matter if it's Reggie Wayne or Dallas Clark or Pierre Garcon or Austin Collie or Joseph Addai, the offense is becoming as reliable as the moon orbit.
One Loss
I'm assuming the N.Y. JETS bounce back tonight against the Miami Dolphins. And after their fluke loss to Denver, the Cincinnati BENGALS have done everything right in the fourth quarter to pull off some wins.
If all four teams remain good enough to make the playoffs, who would be the other two? I'm guessing the New England PATRIOTS will be one team, and the Baltimore RAVENS and San Diego CHARGERS will duke it out for the other wild-card spot.
NFC
Undefeated
If the Colts are the cream of the Americans, the N.Y. GIANTS are the cream of the Nationals. A Manning v. Manning Super Bowl is looking very realistic. Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw take turns being the dominant running back, Eli Manning has been making good decisions, and while he doesn't have a star receiver, he's made Steve Smith and Mario Manningham looks good (or vice versa). The defense beats up exactly who they need to.
Meanwhile the Minnesota VIKINGS have been inspiring. I think they'd still be a good team with Jackson as QB, but not undefeated. That's why youn bring in Favre. Give them a year of tasting victory. Adrian Peterson helps too.
And then there's the New Orleans SAINTS. The Saints are one of five franchises who've never been to the Super Bowl (the others being the Cleveland Browns, the Detroit Lions, the Jacksonville Jaguars, and the Houston Texans).
One Loss
The Phialdelphia EAGLES got by without Donovan McNabb, but D-Mac really showed why they want him there when he came back with a vengeance yesterday. The Eagles have been the best consistent team of the decade to still not win a Super Bowl.
The Atlanta FALCONS feel like a topsy-turvy team to only have one loss at this point. Matt Ryan is capable of brilliant games, but I see them hitting a bump later in the season. Still, their division has Carolina and Tampa Bay, four guaranteed wins.
There's also the Chicago BEARS, who are getting more comfortable with Jay Cutler. The Jay Culter-Kyle Orton has to go down as one of the biggest win-win trades in years.
Well, someone has to win the NFC West. San Fran, Arizona, and Seattle all look like they could go 8-8 or 9-7, so it's really up to them, and even though I'd love it to be the Seahawks, I have a feeling the 49ERS will be the ones to pull through. I credit their coaching.
That means at least one of the six teams in the NFC with one or no losses won't make it. I guess for that, I'd pick the Bears.
AFC
Undefeated
The only two left are the Indianapolis COLTS and the Denver BRONCOS. I still think the Broncos are the luckiest 5-0 team ever, but they really showed something in beating the Patriots. Meanwhile the Colts look unstoppable. They ironed out some kinks in Week 1, but their defense is playing as good as ever, and Peyton manning says "No Marvin harrison, no Anthony Gonzalez, no problem." It doesn't matter if it's Reggie Wayne or Dallas Clark or Pierre Garcon or Austin Collie or Joseph Addai, the offense is becoming as reliable as the moon orbit.
One Loss
I'm assuming the N.Y. JETS bounce back tonight against the Miami Dolphins. And after their fluke loss to Denver, the Cincinnati BENGALS have done everything right in the fourth quarter to pull off some wins.
If all four teams remain good enough to make the playoffs, who would be the other two? I'm guessing the New England PATRIOTS will be one team, and the Baltimore RAVENS and San Diego CHARGERS will duke it out for the other wild-card spot.
NFC
Undefeated
If the Colts are the cream of the Americans, the N.Y. GIANTS are the cream of the Nationals. A Manning v. Manning Super Bowl is looking very realistic. Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw take turns being the dominant running back, Eli Manning has been making good decisions, and while he doesn't have a star receiver, he's made Steve Smith and Mario Manningham looks good (or vice versa). The defense beats up exactly who they need to.
Meanwhile the Minnesota VIKINGS have been inspiring. I think they'd still be a good team with Jackson as QB, but not undefeated. That's why youn bring in Favre. Give them a year of tasting victory. Adrian Peterson helps too.
And then there's the New Orleans SAINTS. The Saints are one of five franchises who've never been to the Super Bowl (the others being the Cleveland Browns, the Detroit Lions, the Jacksonville Jaguars, and the Houston Texans).
One Loss
The Phialdelphia EAGLES got by without Donovan McNabb, but D-Mac really showed why they want him there when he came back with a vengeance yesterday. The Eagles have been the best consistent team of the decade to still not win a Super Bowl.
The Atlanta FALCONS feel like a topsy-turvy team to only have one loss at this point. Matt Ryan is capable of brilliant games, but I see them hitting a bump later in the season. Still, their division has Carolina and Tampa Bay, four guaranteed wins.
There's also the Chicago BEARS, who are getting more comfortable with Jay Cutler. The Jay Culter-Kyle Orton has to go down as one of the biggest win-win trades in years.
Well, someone has to win the NFC West. San Fran, Arizona, and Seattle all look like they could go 8-8 or 9-7, so it's really up to them, and even though I'd love it to be the Seahawks, I have a feeling the 49ERS will be the ones to pull through. I credit their coaching.
That means at least one of the six teams in the NFC with one or no losses won't make it. I guess for that, I'd pick the Bears.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Gotta love Miles Austin
On my fantasy football team, I needed to find a 3rd wide receiver. Jerricho Cotchery was questionable for today, and Roy Williams was out. I saw Miles Austin was available and figured "It's the Chiefs."
37 points for me.
Thanks to him I'm still the only undefeated team left in my league. And that was with Santana Moss and Steve Smith as my other two WRs.
37 points for me.
Thanks to him I'm still the only undefeated team left in my league. And that was with Santana Moss and Steve Smith as my other two WRs.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Go, Colts!
I need Dallas Clark to get some catches tomorrow for me to win my fantasy football game this week.
This has totally changed how I watch football.
This has totally changed how I watch football.
Thoughts after the BYU-FSU fiasco
I was at the game.
BYU didn't have a defensive stop until the third quarter was almost over.
BYU had 5 turnovers. FSU had none.
The FSU offensive line looked an average of 4 inches taller and 40 pounds heavier than the BYU defensive line.
If FSU could have pulled off the last-second win against Miami, they'd be undefeated and therefore probably in the Top 10 by now.
And Utah lost to Oregon. So the MWC just set itself back two years in one night.
BYU didn't have a defensive stop until the third quarter was almost over.
BYU had 5 turnovers. FSU had none.
The FSU offensive line looked an average of 4 inches taller and 40 pounds heavier than the BYU defensive line.
If FSU could have pulled off the last-second win against Miami, they'd be undefeated and therefore probably in the Top 10 by now.
And Utah lost to Oregon. So the MWC just set itself back two years in one night.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Monday Night Football
The Bills and Raiders deserved to win their games, but they're losers, so somehow the Patriots and Chargers still won, but those games were as exciting a double-header as the NFL could hope for.
Monday, September 14, 2009
NBA Hall of Fame
It's the first time I've watched induction speeches into the Hall of Fame.
I thought David Robinson was classy; ditto Vivian Stringer.
John Stockton... that's the longest I've ever heard him speak. It was moving. Stock was always media-shy in Utah. He was an enigma really, a stranger. Fans could project on him what they wanted to, because he kept his mouth shut. Unless he goes into coaching, that may be the last time we ever him speak.
Jerry Sloan... star. He walked a long road to get to where he was. I hope this is the year the Jazz can win the title and Sloan gets Coach of the Year. How many Hall of Fame coaches never won Coach of the Year, I wonder?
Michael Jordan... interesting to see that to be the best ever at what you do, you kinda have to be a jerk. The chip never leaves the shoulder. I believe MJ when he talks about the motivation that the doubters gave him. If only Bryon Russell had never taunted him, MJ might have stayed retired, and the Jazz could have won two championships. Never rattle MJ's cage.
I thought David Robinson was classy; ditto Vivian Stringer.
John Stockton... that's the longest I've ever heard him speak. It was moving. Stock was always media-shy in Utah. He was an enigma really, a stranger. Fans could project on him what they wanted to, because he kept his mouth shut. Unless he goes into coaching, that may be the last time we ever him speak.
Jerry Sloan... star. He walked a long road to get to where he was. I hope this is the year the Jazz can win the title and Sloan gets Coach of the Year. How many Hall of Fame coaches never won Coach of the Year, I wonder?
Michael Jordan... interesting to see that to be the best ever at what you do, you kinda have to be a jerk. The chip never leaves the shoulder. I believe MJ when he talks about the motivation that the doubters gave him. If only Bryon Russell had never taunted him, MJ might have stayed retired, and the Jazz could have won two championships. Never rattle MJ's cage.
Monday, September 7, 2009
#20 BYU beats #3 Oklahoma
If BYU goes undefeated, they may actually, realistically get a shot at the national title even without the MWC replacing the Big East as the sixth BCS conference.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Fantasy Football
Overall I'm happy with my team, but my main weakness this year was mine last year - wide receivers. My best WR is Dallas's Roy Williams. Yikes.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Michael Vick should be reinstated
He did his time, so yeah, I think a 4-game suspension would be appropriate, and then Michael Vick can play in the NFL. Leonard Little killed someone, and he still got to play again.
...but don't trade Boozer for nothing
Here's a national story that gets why the Jazz would be better to keep Boozer than to give him away for table scraps.
I think they should try to trade him, but if they're trying to get 75 cents on the dollar and the only offers are 50 cents on the dollar, forget it. Play hardball and make him be a good team player so he can get his big money next year. He knows if he's toxic in the locker room this year, he'll just become the next Sprewell or Marbury.
I think they should try to trade him, but if they're trying to get 75 cents on the dollar and the only offers are 50 cents on the dollar, forget it. Play hardball and make him be a good team player so he can get his big money next year. He knows if he's toxic in the locker room this year, he'll just become the next Sprewell or Marbury.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Trade Carlos Boozer
I've been a supporter of Carlos Boozer. I was one of many who thought he sat out more games than he needed to when he pulled his hamstring his first year here, when the Jazz went 26-56 (the only losing season of Jerry Sloan's 21 years of coaching Utah). But when Booze came back and helped the Jazz get to 41-41 and then the next year get to the Western Conference Finals, I was on board.
When Boozer got injured again this year, many Jazz fans were saying he's a bum, get rid of him. He had to have surgery to get his knee fixed, but still many people thought he was dogging it. I would argue you're not dogging it when you have surgery, but still the Jazz were able to stay afloat. And then he came back and the chemistry fizzled, and the Jazz plummeted to eighth place and had a quick first-round exit to the eventual NBA Champs.
Even a week ago I was saying, give this lineup a chance. But it's all becoming clear what Boozer's doing.
Why would Carlos Boozer opt in when he's been saying for months he's going to opt out? Easy. His agent felt around in the market and saw no one was going to offer a max-deal to a guy who missed most of two of his past four seasons. So he opted in. He tried to get an extension with the Jazz, but they didn't give it to him. Now he's trying to force a trade. He won't go on any TV or radio show in Utah, but he's been heard everywhere from Chciago to D.C. that he's going to be traded "any second now."
In truth, everything I'm reading from the Jazz side of things says nothing is imminent. Boozer wants to be traded, and by spouting off daily, he's weakening the Jazz's position on what they can get back for him. And why wouldn't he? It means whatever team he goes to won't have to lose as many pieces to get him. He even said new Yortk is one place the Jazz might trade him to, even though he knows there's not a chance in hell the Jazz would do that, as they own the 2010 New York first-round pick.
Many teams would and should jump at the chance to get him. His two healthy Jazz years resulted in him going to the All-Star game. He's an Olympic gold-medalist. When healthy, he's a 21-point, 11-rebound guy. Most importantly, there's only one year left on his deal.
But he's burning his bridge in Utah. It's clear from the comments of his Jazz teammates that most of them would like to have him just go away, including Deron Williams.
So what or who should the Jazz go for?
Right now the rumor is a three-way deal with Miami and Memphis that would send Boozer to Miami while the Jazz get back Udonis Haslem. Haslem's a decent piece to a team, but my hope is that if the Heat are going for Odom and Boozer, the Jazz can get Miami to trade for Michael Beasley and Mark Blount.
Other possibilites (that do work out cap-trade-wise):
-Orlando - Boozer for Marcin Gortat & Mickael Pietrus.
-Chicago - Boozer for John Salmons & Tyrus Thomas.
-Atlanta - Boozer & CJ Miles for Joe Johnson & Mario West.
-Charlotte - Boozer & CJ Miles for Boris Diaw & Raja Bell.
-Dallas - Boozer for Josh Howard.
-Golden State - Boozer for Corey Maggette & Kelenna Azubiuke.
When Boozer got injured again this year, many Jazz fans were saying he's a bum, get rid of him. He had to have surgery to get his knee fixed, but still many people thought he was dogging it. I would argue you're not dogging it when you have surgery, but still the Jazz were able to stay afloat. And then he came back and the chemistry fizzled, and the Jazz plummeted to eighth place and had a quick first-round exit to the eventual NBA Champs.
Even a week ago I was saying, give this lineup a chance. But it's all becoming clear what Boozer's doing.
Why would Carlos Boozer opt in when he's been saying for months he's going to opt out? Easy. His agent felt around in the market and saw no one was going to offer a max-deal to a guy who missed most of two of his past four seasons. So he opted in. He tried to get an extension with the Jazz, but they didn't give it to him. Now he's trying to force a trade. He won't go on any TV or radio show in Utah, but he's been heard everywhere from Chciago to D.C. that he's going to be traded "any second now."
In truth, everything I'm reading from the Jazz side of things says nothing is imminent. Boozer wants to be traded, and by spouting off daily, he's weakening the Jazz's position on what they can get back for him. And why wouldn't he? It means whatever team he goes to won't have to lose as many pieces to get him. He even said new Yortk is one place the Jazz might trade him to, even though he knows there's not a chance in hell the Jazz would do that, as they own the 2010 New York first-round pick.
Many teams would and should jump at the chance to get him. His two healthy Jazz years resulted in him going to the All-Star game. He's an Olympic gold-medalist. When healthy, he's a 21-point, 11-rebound guy. Most importantly, there's only one year left on his deal.
But he's burning his bridge in Utah. It's clear from the comments of his Jazz teammates that most of them would like to have him just go away, including Deron Williams.
So what or who should the Jazz go for?
Right now the rumor is a three-way deal with Miami and Memphis that would send Boozer to Miami while the Jazz get back Udonis Haslem. Haslem's a decent piece to a team, but my hope is that if the Heat are going for Odom and Boozer, the Jazz can get Miami to trade for Michael Beasley and Mark Blount.
Other possibilites (that do work out cap-trade-wise):
-Orlando - Boozer for Marcin Gortat & Mickael Pietrus.
-Chicago - Boozer for John Salmons & Tyrus Thomas.
-Atlanta - Boozer & CJ Miles for Joe Johnson & Mario West.
-Charlotte - Boozer & CJ Miles for Boris Diaw & Raja Bell.
-Dallas - Boozer for Josh Howard.
-Golden State - Boozer for Corey Maggette & Kelenna Azubiuke.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
NBA Western Conference Power Rankings
Western Conference
I don't see this year playing out like last year, where you had the Lakers, and then eight more good teams, and then six lousy teams. I see it being tighter all the way around.
1. L.A. LAKERS - Swapping Trevor Ariza for Ron Artest might sound like a good idea to some, but Ron-Ron's numbers show that while he's a very good individual defender, he's way overrated as a team defender. Plus why is taking so long to re-sign Lamar Odom? It couldn't be because Jerry Buss doesn't want to pay all that luxury tax, could it? Doubtful. I bet they get Odom signed, and they'll be a very good team, but I can see Artest as a wedge come spring.
2. SAN ANTONIO - They had the steal of the summer in landing Richard Jefferson and they had a pick like DeJuan Blair fall to them in the second round. Unbelievable. The window's now open an extra year or two for Tim Duncan to get his fifth ring.
3. DENVER - They've had their taste of the playoffs, and now they'll want more. Chauncey Billups will continue to be the Man, while Carmelo provides the Stats. Looks like they'll even get to keep the shotblocking Birdman for a decent price. Oh, and getting Ty Lawson on draft night? Very good move.
4. UTAH - Last year's roster lost more games to injuries than any other team in the league. This year the gang will all be back, so if they can stay healthy, great things should happen. But it looks like the front office may try to move Carlos Boozer in the last year of his deal in a bid to keep Paul Millsap. Personally I hope they re-sign Sap, but keep this roster until the regular season and see how it does before they make any moves.
5. PORTLAND - They lost out on Hedo Turkoglu, which would have been huge, but they still have time to make some moves (Lamar Odom? David Lee?), and if they don't, well, Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge will be a year better, and anything Greg Oden can give them will be gravy.
6. NEW ORLEANS - As constitued, this is a good team, but it'll still likely get blown up so the Hornets can save some money. Tyson Chandler will probably be moved, and that will annihilate any chances of getting out of the first round.
7. HOUSTON - So they have no idea if they'll get Yao Ming this season, and they don't know how much heart Tracy McGrady is going to play with in the final year of his deal on a team that did better without him than with him. Trevor Ariza is a good free-agent land for them.
8. DALLAS - Jason Kidd's not getting any younger. Heck, neither's Dirk Nowitski.
9. GOLDEN STATE - I believe Stephen Curry will have the type of star-making year that he's able to get this team back to at least flirting with the playoffs. They still have a ton of talent.
10. PHOENIX - They have Steve Nash and Jason Richardson, and they might trade away Amare Stoudamire to save some money. Yeah, that's not much of a team. Steve Kerr destroyed this franchise with the Shaq-for-Marion trade.
11. OKLAHOMA CITY - James Harden is the type of rookie that should help this young team start winning some games. But with all that cap-space, they need to land a good free-agent for that final nudge of progress.
12. MEMPHIS - They're certainly be a better rebounding team with Zach Randolph and Hasheem Thabeet. But Mike Conley needs to show he can be a star point guard with this many weapons (Rudy Gay, O.J. Mayo, Marc Gasol...) at his disposal.
13. L.A. CLIPPERS - Baron Davis to Blake Griffin. Sounds good, but we are talking about the Clippers.
14. MINNESOTA - If Ricky Rubio doesn't want to go there, they need to salvage this somehow. Talks with New York should heat up. They can't let Rubio become the next Fran Vasquez.
15. SACRAMENTO - So now they have Kevin Martin and Tyreke Gibson. Good luck.
I don't see this year playing out like last year, where you had the Lakers, and then eight more good teams, and then six lousy teams. I see it being tighter all the way around.
1. L.A. LAKERS - Swapping Trevor Ariza for Ron Artest might sound like a good idea to some, but Ron-Ron's numbers show that while he's a very good individual defender, he's way overrated as a team defender. Plus why is taking so long to re-sign Lamar Odom? It couldn't be because Jerry Buss doesn't want to pay all that luxury tax, could it? Doubtful. I bet they get Odom signed, and they'll be a very good team, but I can see Artest as a wedge come spring.
2. SAN ANTONIO - They had the steal of the summer in landing Richard Jefferson and they had a pick like DeJuan Blair fall to them in the second round. Unbelievable. The window's now open an extra year or two for Tim Duncan to get his fifth ring.
3. DENVER - They've had their taste of the playoffs, and now they'll want more. Chauncey Billups will continue to be the Man, while Carmelo provides the Stats. Looks like they'll even get to keep the shotblocking Birdman for a decent price. Oh, and getting Ty Lawson on draft night? Very good move.
4. UTAH - Last year's roster lost more games to injuries than any other team in the league. This year the gang will all be back, so if they can stay healthy, great things should happen. But it looks like the front office may try to move Carlos Boozer in the last year of his deal in a bid to keep Paul Millsap. Personally I hope they re-sign Sap, but keep this roster until the regular season and see how it does before they make any moves.
5. PORTLAND - They lost out on Hedo Turkoglu, which would have been huge, but they still have time to make some moves (Lamar Odom? David Lee?), and if they don't, well, Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge will be a year better, and anything Greg Oden can give them will be gravy.
6. NEW ORLEANS - As constitued, this is a good team, but it'll still likely get blown up so the Hornets can save some money. Tyson Chandler will probably be moved, and that will annihilate any chances of getting out of the first round.
7. HOUSTON - So they have no idea if they'll get Yao Ming this season, and they don't know how much heart Tracy McGrady is going to play with in the final year of his deal on a team that did better without him than with him. Trevor Ariza is a good free-agent land for them.
8. DALLAS - Jason Kidd's not getting any younger. Heck, neither's Dirk Nowitski.
9. GOLDEN STATE - I believe Stephen Curry will have the type of star-making year that he's able to get this team back to at least flirting with the playoffs. They still have a ton of talent.
10. PHOENIX - They have Steve Nash and Jason Richardson, and they might trade away Amare Stoudamire to save some money. Yeah, that's not much of a team. Steve Kerr destroyed this franchise with the Shaq-for-Marion trade.
11. OKLAHOMA CITY - James Harden is the type of rookie that should help this young team start winning some games. But with all that cap-space, they need to land a good free-agent for that final nudge of progress.
12. MEMPHIS - They're certainly be a better rebounding team with Zach Randolph and Hasheem Thabeet. But Mike Conley needs to show he can be a star point guard with this many weapons (Rudy Gay, O.J. Mayo, Marc Gasol...) at his disposal.
13. L.A. CLIPPERS - Baron Davis to Blake Griffin. Sounds good, but we are talking about the Clippers.
14. MINNESOTA - If Ricky Rubio doesn't want to go there, they need to salvage this somehow. Talks with New York should heat up. They can't let Rubio become the next Fran Vasquez.
15. SACRAMENTO - So now they have Kevin Martin and Tyreke Gibson. Good luck.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
#20 - Utah JAZZ take... Eric Maynor
A point guard.
He's six inches taller than me and we weigh the same.
Ick, I don't like this pick. We'll see.
He's six inches taller than me and we weigh the same.
Ick, I don't like this pick. We'll see.
#19 - Atlanta Hawks take Jeff Teague
Another point guard gone. Wow, the Jazz just might have to take Mullens...
#18 - Ty Lawson goes to Denver in exchange for a future first-rounder that Charlotte owes Denver.
Great, Denver's better.
#18 - Ty Lawson goes to Denver in exchange for a future first-rounder that Charlotte owes Denver.
Great, Denver's better.
#18 - T-Wolves take Ty Lawson
The Wolves have drafted three point guards. There HAS to be a trade in the works somewhere.
Wow, BJ Mullens is still there. If the Jazz take him, I look for Kyrylo Fesenko to be a throw-in in a trade in the next few weeks.
Wow, BJ Mullens is still there. If the Jazz take him, I look for Kyrylo Fesenko to be a throw-in in a trade in the next few weeks.
#17 - Philly 76ers take Jrue Holiday
Smart pick by the Sixers, especially with Andre Miller's contract situation in doubt.
Wow, would the Jazz draft a 7-footer for the second year in a row? BJ Mullens just might fall to them. Otherwise I'm guessing it's between Teague & Lawson, or Sam Young.
If he falls to them, I predict they pass on DeJuan Blair due to questions about his knees. Jazz don't want another injury-prone player.
Wow, would the Jazz draft a 7-footer for the second year in a row? BJ Mullens just might fall to them. Otherwise I'm guessing it's between Teague & Lawson, or Sam Young.
If he falls to them, I predict they pass on DeJuan Blair due to questions about his knees. Jazz don't want another injury-prone player.
#16 - Chicago Bulls take James Johnson
Ah, they're killing me softly with these picks, taking the guys I would hope could fall. It makes the most sense for their franchise though.
#15 - Pistons take Austin Daye
Pistons can let him develop behind Tayshaun Prince I reckon.
Sounding more and more like the Jazz are going to take a backup point guard with their pick.
Sounding more and more like the Jazz are going to take a backup point guard with their pick.
#14 - Suns take Earl Clark
Dang, another guy I was hoping would slip.
Now maybe I can hope for James Johnson or Austin Daye to fall. Or Jrue Holliday, for just a solid prospect.
Now maybe I can hope for James Johnson or Austin Daye to fall. Or Jrue Holliday, for just a solid prospect.
#13 - Indiana Pacers take Tyler Hansborough
Dang, I was hoping he would drop to #20 for the Jazz. Oh well. Good pick for them.
#12 - Bobcats take Gerald Henderson
Hometown kid. That might please some fans who are sick of watching their team lose year after year.
#11 - New Jersey takes Terrence Williams
Makes sense. Get a good small forward to go with recent trade acquisitions Alston and C. Lee.
#10 - Milwaukee Bucks take Brandon Jennings
Bucks need PG help, so... should be okay. But we're getting down into "gamble" territory. And the Bucks aren't going anywhere this year, so they can be patient.
#8 - Knicks take Jordan Hill
He seems like a good prospect. LOL at the Knicks fans booing him. Do the Knicks try to trade Hill and someone like Gallinari to Minny for Rubio?
#6 - MIN takes Jonny Flynn, #7 - GS takes S. Curry
They're saying Rubio and Flynn are going to stay together. Huh. Really?
Much to the chagrin of the NY crowd, the Warriors took Curry. Funny to see Curry smile, knowing the boos are because the crowd wanted him on their team.
Much to the chagrin of the NY crowd, the Warriors took Curry. Funny to see Curry smile, knowing the boos are because the crowd wanted him on their team.
#5 - Minnesota T-Wolves pick Ricky Rubio
I can't help but think Minnesota has a trade up their sleeve. But then, this hasn't been the best-run franchise for a long time.
Rubio dishing to Al Jefferson and Kevin Love. Should be good. They should really try to trade #6 to get a solid wingman.
Rubio dishing to Al Jefferson and Kevin Love. Should be good. They should really try to trade #6 to get a solid wingman.
#4 - Sacramento Kings pick Tyreke Evans
Evans and Kevin Martin in the back court should be really good. But they need a lot of front-court help.
And what about the story that came out today that Evans was the driver when his cousin shot someone?
Minnesota has #5 and #6. I bet they take Rubio and Hill. Or they take Rubio and Curry and trade one of them...
And what about the story that came out today that Evans was the driver when his cousin shot someone?
Minnesota has #5 and #6. I bet they take Rubio and Hill. Or they take Rubio and Curry and trade one of them...
#3 - OKC Thunder select James Harden
Wow, Ricky Rubio's slipping. But Harden seems like the right choice. Russell Westbrook at the PG, and Kevin Durant at the SF... Slide Harden right in there for their star SG. All indications are that Harden could be like OJ Mayo or Brandon Roy. Hey, Jay Bilas just said "Brandon Roy". Great minds...
Wow, I'm still stunned that Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, is dead...
Wow, I'm still stunned that Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, is dead...
NBA Draft #1, #2...
#1 L.A. Clippers select Blake Griffin
#2 Memphis Grizzlies select Hasheem Thabeet
The Clips should try to trade Zach Randolph for Tracy McGrady, but it'll probably be Chris Kaman or Marcus Camby that gets shipped. Will Griffin turn L.A. around? Did Kevin Durant turn his team around?
As for Thabeet, I think the Grizzlies have enough young talent that they should do what Boston did. Quit hording all these young players and just blow up the roster to get a couple solid vets. Of course, with all the trades today, who is still out there they could get? Or do they spend the money in free agency?
Good no-brainer picks for the first two...
#2 Memphis Grizzlies select Hasheem Thabeet
The Clips should try to trade Zach Randolph for Tracy McGrady, but it'll probably be Chris Kaman or Marcus Camby that gets shipped. Will Griffin turn L.A. around? Did Kevin Durant turn his team around?
As for Thabeet, I think the Grizzlies have enough young talent that they should do what Boston did. Quit hording all these young players and just blow up the roster to get a couple solid vets. Of course, with all the trades today, who is still out there they could get? Or do they spend the money in free agency?
Good no-brainer picks for the first two...
Tons of NBA trades going down
- Richard Jefferson to the Spurs for Bruce Bowen, Kurt Thomas and Fabricio Oberto.
- Vince Carter and Ryan Anderson to the Magic for Rafer Alston, Courtney Lee and Tony Battie.
- Jamal Crawford to the Hawks for Speedy Claxton and Acie Law.
- Shaquille O'Neal to the Cavaliers for Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic.
I'd wager at least one more big one is announced before this busy draft day is done. Rumors have Tracy McGrady and Amare Stoudamire on the block.
- Vince Carter and Ryan Anderson to the Magic for Rafer Alston, Courtney Lee and Tony Battie.
- Jamal Crawford to the Hawks for Speedy Claxton and Acie Law.
- Shaquille O'Neal to the Cavaliers for Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic.
I'd wager at least one more big one is announced before this busy draft day is done. Rumors have Tracy McGrady and Amare Stoudamire on the block.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
NBA Draft thoughts
The NBA Draft is upon us, and perhaps no other draft night brings so much hope to so many cities, only to have them fizzle out. But for me, it’s still the best pro-sports draft of them all. Now looking at this year’s, many prognosticators say this may be the weakest draft in a decade. I went through them back to 1999 to evaluate the picks, just to compare how each draft ranking gets you. Starting from the top, with my draft guesses, which are never close, but it’s still fun:
#1 – Blake Griffin (6-10/PF) – LA Clippers
Best three #1’s since 1999:
2003 – LeBron James (CLE)
2002 – Yao Ming (HOU)
2004 – Dwight Howard (ORL)
Worst two #1’s since 1999:
2000 – Kwame Brown (WSH)
2006 – Andrea Bargnani (TOR)
#2 – Hasheem Thabeet (7-3/C) – Memphis
Best three #2’s since 1999:
2007 – Kevin Durant (SEA)
1999 – Steve Francis (VAN)
2006 – LaMarcus Aldridge (POR)
Worst two #2’s since 1999
2002 – Jay Williams (CHI)
2000 – Stromile Swift (VAN)
#3 – James Harden (6-5/SG) – Oklahoma City
Best three #3’s since 1999:
2001 – Pau Gasol (MEM)
2003 – Carmelo Anthony (DEN)
2005 – Deron Williams (UTA)
Worst two #3’s since 1999
2006 – Adam Morrison (CHA)
2000 – Darius Miles (LAC)
#4 – Ricky Rubio (6-3/PG) – Sacramento
Best three #4’s since 1999:
2005 – Chris Paul (NOH)
2003 – Chris Bosh (TOR)
1999 – Lamar Odom (LAC)
Worst two #4’s since 1999
2000 – Marcus Fizer (CHI)
2004 – Shaun Livingston (LAC)
#5 – Jordan Hill (6-10/PF) – Washington
Best three #5’s since 1999:
2003 – Dwyane Wade (MIA)
2004 – Devin Harris (DAL)
2001 – Jason Richardson (GS)
Worst two #5’s since 1999
2002 – Nickoloz Tskitishvili (DEN)
1999 – Jonathan Bender (TOR)
#6 – Stephen Curry (6-3/PG) – Minnesota
Best three #6’s since 1999:
2006 – Brandon Roy (POR)
2003 – Chris Kaman (LAC)
2001 – Shane Battier (HOU)
Worst two #6’s since 1999
2008 – Danilo Gallinari (NYK)
2000 – DerMarr Johnson (ATL)
#7 – Tyreke Evans (6-5/SG) – Golden State
Best three #7’s since 1999:
1999 – Richard Hamilton (DET)
2004 – Luol Deng (CHI)
2002 – Nene (DEN)
Worst two #7’s since 1999
2007 – Corey Brewer (MIN)
2000 – Chris Mihm (CLE)
#8 – Jrue Holiday (6-4/PG) – New York
Best three #8’s since 1999:
2006 – Rudy Gay (MEM)
1999 – Andre Miller (CLE)
2003 – TJ Ford (MIL)
Worst two #8’s since 1999
2004 – Rafael Araujo (TOR)
2008 – Joe Alexander (MIL)
#9 – Earl Clark (6-10/PF) - Toronto
Best three #9’s since 1999:
2002 – Amare Stoudamire (PHX)
1999 – Shawn Marion (PHX)
2004 – Andre Iguodala (PHI)
Worst two #9’s since 1999
2006 – Patrick O’Bryant (GS)
2003 – Mike Sweetney (NYK)
#10 – Gerald Henderson (6-5/SG) - Milwaukee
Best three #10’s since 1999:
2002 – Caron Butler (MIA)
2001 – Joe Johnson (BOS)
1999 – Jason Terry (ATL)
Worst two #10’s since 1999
2004 – Luke Jackson (CLE)
2006 – Saer Sene (SEA)
#11 – Brandon Jennings (6-1/PG) – New Jersey
Best three #11’s since 1999:
2004 – Andris Biedrins (GS)
2003 – Mickael Pietrus (GS)
2001 – Jared Jeffries (WSH)
Worst two #11’s since 1999
2005 – Fran Vasquez (ORL)
2000 – Jerome Moiso (BOS)
#12 – DeMar DeRozan (6-7/SF) - Charlotte
#13 – DeJuan Blair (6-6/SF) - Indiana
#14 – Ty Lawson (6-1/PG) – Phoenix
Best three #12-14’s since 1999:
Richard Jefferson, Corey Maggette, Troy Murphy
Worst two #12-14’s since 1999:
Alek Redojevic, Yaroslav Korolev
#15-20 – BJ Mullens (7-1/C), Tyler Hansbrough (6-9/PF), Jonny Flynn (6-1/PG), Jeff Teague (6-2/PG), James Johnson (6-8/SF), Terence Williams (6-6/SG) – Detroit, Chicago, Philadelphia, Minnesota, Atlanta, Utah
Best three #15-20’s since 1999:
Al Jefferson, Danny Granger, David West
Worst two #15-20’s since 1999:
Frederic Weis, Troy Bell
Best three #21-30’s since 1999:
Tony Parker, Kevin Martin, Josh Howard
Worst two #21-30’s since 1999:
Too many disappeared after a year or so to just pick two
#1 – Blake Griffin (6-10/PF) – LA Clippers
Best three #1’s since 1999:
2003 – LeBron James (CLE)
2002 – Yao Ming (HOU)
2004 – Dwight Howard (ORL)
Worst two #1’s since 1999:
2000 – Kwame Brown (WSH)
2006 – Andrea Bargnani (TOR)
#2 – Hasheem Thabeet (7-3/C) – Memphis
Best three #2’s since 1999:
2007 – Kevin Durant (SEA)
1999 – Steve Francis (VAN)
2006 – LaMarcus Aldridge (POR)
Worst two #2’s since 1999
2002 – Jay Williams (CHI)
2000 – Stromile Swift (VAN)
#3 – James Harden (6-5/SG) – Oklahoma City
Best three #3’s since 1999:
2001 – Pau Gasol (MEM)
2003 – Carmelo Anthony (DEN)
2005 – Deron Williams (UTA)
Worst two #3’s since 1999
2006 – Adam Morrison (CHA)
2000 – Darius Miles (LAC)
#4 – Ricky Rubio (6-3/PG) – Sacramento
Best three #4’s since 1999:
2005 – Chris Paul (NOH)
2003 – Chris Bosh (TOR)
1999 – Lamar Odom (LAC)
Worst two #4’s since 1999
2000 – Marcus Fizer (CHI)
2004 – Shaun Livingston (LAC)
#5 – Jordan Hill (6-10/PF) – Washington
Best three #5’s since 1999:
2003 – Dwyane Wade (MIA)
2004 – Devin Harris (DAL)
2001 – Jason Richardson (GS)
Worst two #5’s since 1999
2002 – Nickoloz Tskitishvili (DEN)
1999 – Jonathan Bender (TOR)
#6 – Stephen Curry (6-3/PG) – Minnesota
Best three #6’s since 1999:
2006 – Brandon Roy (POR)
2003 – Chris Kaman (LAC)
2001 – Shane Battier (HOU)
Worst two #6’s since 1999
2008 – Danilo Gallinari (NYK)
2000 – DerMarr Johnson (ATL)
#7 – Tyreke Evans (6-5/SG) – Golden State
Best three #7’s since 1999:
1999 – Richard Hamilton (DET)
2004 – Luol Deng (CHI)
2002 – Nene (DEN)
Worst two #7’s since 1999
2007 – Corey Brewer (MIN)
2000 – Chris Mihm (CLE)
#8 – Jrue Holiday (6-4/PG) – New York
Best three #8’s since 1999:
2006 – Rudy Gay (MEM)
1999 – Andre Miller (CLE)
2003 – TJ Ford (MIL)
Worst two #8’s since 1999
2004 – Rafael Araujo (TOR)
2008 – Joe Alexander (MIL)
#9 – Earl Clark (6-10/PF) - Toronto
Best three #9’s since 1999:
2002 – Amare Stoudamire (PHX)
1999 – Shawn Marion (PHX)
2004 – Andre Iguodala (PHI)
Worst two #9’s since 1999
2006 – Patrick O’Bryant (GS)
2003 – Mike Sweetney (NYK)
#10 – Gerald Henderson (6-5/SG) - Milwaukee
Best three #10’s since 1999:
2002 – Caron Butler (MIA)
2001 – Joe Johnson (BOS)
1999 – Jason Terry (ATL)
Worst two #10’s since 1999
2004 – Luke Jackson (CLE)
2006 – Saer Sene (SEA)
#11 – Brandon Jennings (6-1/PG) – New Jersey
Best three #11’s since 1999:
2004 – Andris Biedrins (GS)
2003 – Mickael Pietrus (GS)
2001 – Jared Jeffries (WSH)
Worst two #11’s since 1999
2005 – Fran Vasquez (ORL)
2000 – Jerome Moiso (BOS)
#12 – DeMar DeRozan (6-7/SF) - Charlotte
#13 – DeJuan Blair (6-6/SF) - Indiana
#14 – Ty Lawson (6-1/PG) – Phoenix
Best three #12-14’s since 1999:
Richard Jefferson, Corey Maggette, Troy Murphy
Worst two #12-14’s since 1999:
Alek Redojevic, Yaroslav Korolev
#15-20 – BJ Mullens (7-1/C), Tyler Hansbrough (6-9/PF), Jonny Flynn (6-1/PG), Jeff Teague (6-2/PG), James Johnson (6-8/SF), Terence Williams (6-6/SG) – Detroit, Chicago, Philadelphia, Minnesota, Atlanta, Utah
Best three #15-20’s since 1999:
Al Jefferson, Danny Granger, David West
Worst two #15-20’s since 1999:
Frederic Weis, Troy Bell
Best three #21-30’s since 1999:
Tony Parker, Kevin Martin, Josh Howard
Worst two #21-30’s since 1999:
Too many disappeared after a year or so to just pick two
Richard Jefferson to Spurs
Great. Just when the Western Conference thought the sun was setting on the 4-time champion Tim Duncan, the Spurs pull off a trade to keep them in the 2010 title hunt. Duncan, Parker, Ginobili AND Jefferson?! Scary.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Orlando Magic vs. L.A. Lakers
How can the Magic possibly win the NBA title against 9-time champion coach Phil Jackson, and 3-time champion Kobe Bryant?
Position comparisons:
PG
Magic - Rafer Alston
Lakers - Derek Fisher
Alston is quicker down the court and off the dribble. His shooting percentage from 2-pt and 3-pt range is better in the playoffs. Fisher has championship experience and is very good at drawing offensive fouls.
Advantage: MAGIC
SG
Magic - Courtney Lee
Lakers - Kobe Bryant
You kidding?
Advantage: LAKERS
SF
Magic - Hedo Turkoglu
Lakers - Trevor Ariza
Ariza is valuable for his defense and his occasional burst of offensive genius. Ariza is that fourth or fifth guy on the floor that teams overlook at their own peril. But Hedo's offensive firepower has been the Magic's secret weapon all through the playoffs. They're key for different reasons, but the slight edge goes to...
Advantage: MAGIC
PF
Magic - Rashard Lewis
Lakers - Paul Gasol
Lewis's outside shooting can cause trouble for Gasol, but on the other end of the floor, Gasol has shown to be unguardable when he's within ten feet of the basket. (Well, he hasn't faced Howard yet, but...)
Advantage: LAKERS
C
Magic - Dwight Howard
Lakers - Andrew Bynum
You kidding?
Advantage: MAGIC
6TH MAN
Magic - Mickael Pietrus
Lakers - Lamar Odom
Pietrus does a little of everything, but Odom does a little bit more of everything.
Advantage: LAKERS
REST OF BENCH
Magic - Redick, Johnson, Gortat, maybe Nelson?
Lakers - Brown, Walton, Farmar, Vujacic
If Jameer Nelson can come back and be effective, it changes everything. But to be injured that long, I would think it would take a few games to adjust, and the Magic don't have a few games. Redick's 3-point shooting has been, with Lewis and Pietrus, great to this point. But really, Brown has been the difference on a couple victories. Consistency is the key to judging second units, and unless Nelson's return to be less effective than Brown...
Advantage: MAGIC
COACH
Magic - Stan Van Gundy
Lakers - Phil Jackson
At a recent press conference it was refreshing to hear SVG address what so many basketball fans have been feeling for years. He's tired of press conferences being used by coaches to jockey for favor with the referees at the next game. Meanwhile Phil is the master of that, and between that and his nine rings...
Advantage: LAKERS
This should be a really good series. The Lakers have home court, but in the 2-3-2 playoff format, that's rarely proven to be an advantage. I think the Lakers will win, but I'll be rooting for the Magic.
8 of the last 10 championship teams have had Shaq or Duncan. Now it'll be 8 out of the last 11.
Position comparisons:
PG
Magic - Rafer Alston
Lakers - Derek Fisher
Alston is quicker down the court and off the dribble. His shooting percentage from 2-pt and 3-pt range is better in the playoffs. Fisher has championship experience and is very good at drawing offensive fouls.
Advantage: MAGIC
SG
Magic - Courtney Lee
Lakers - Kobe Bryant
You kidding?
Advantage: LAKERS
SF
Magic - Hedo Turkoglu
Lakers - Trevor Ariza
Ariza is valuable for his defense and his occasional burst of offensive genius. Ariza is that fourth or fifth guy on the floor that teams overlook at their own peril. But Hedo's offensive firepower has been the Magic's secret weapon all through the playoffs. They're key for different reasons, but the slight edge goes to...
Advantage: MAGIC
PF
Magic - Rashard Lewis
Lakers - Paul Gasol
Lewis's outside shooting can cause trouble for Gasol, but on the other end of the floor, Gasol has shown to be unguardable when he's within ten feet of the basket. (Well, he hasn't faced Howard yet, but...)
Advantage: LAKERS
C
Magic - Dwight Howard
Lakers - Andrew Bynum
You kidding?
Advantage: MAGIC
6TH MAN
Magic - Mickael Pietrus
Lakers - Lamar Odom
Pietrus does a little of everything, but Odom does a little bit more of everything.
Advantage: LAKERS
REST OF BENCH
Magic - Redick, Johnson, Gortat, maybe Nelson?
Lakers - Brown, Walton, Farmar, Vujacic
If Jameer Nelson can come back and be effective, it changes everything. But to be injured that long, I would think it would take a few games to adjust, and the Magic don't have a few games. Redick's 3-point shooting has been, with Lewis and Pietrus, great to this point. But really, Brown has been the difference on a couple victories. Consistency is the key to judging second units, and unless Nelson's return to be less effective than Brown...
Advantage: MAGIC
COACH
Magic - Stan Van Gundy
Lakers - Phil Jackson
At a recent press conference it was refreshing to hear SVG address what so many basketball fans have been feeling for years. He's tired of press conferences being used by coaches to jockey for favor with the referees at the next game. Meanwhile Phil is the master of that, and between that and his nine rings...
Advantage: LAKERS
This should be a really good series. The Lakers have home court, but in the 2-3-2 playoff format, that's rarely proven to be an advantage. I think the Lakers will win, but I'll be rooting for the Magic.
8 of the last 10 championship teams have had Shaq or Duncan. Now it'll be 8 out of the last 11.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
So who can the Utah Jazz keep?
I'm going to assume that Kyle Korver does not opt out, and that Okur and Boozer do. The Jazz would have to give up Okur and Millsap to keep Boozer, and I think they'd rather keep Okur and Millsap. They need to keep two of those three.
For next season the Jazz will have under contract Deron Williams, Andrei Kirilenko, Ronnie Brewer, CJ Miles, Kosta Koufos, Matt Harpring, Kyle Korver and Kyrylo Fesenko (assuming the Jazz pick up his $810,000 option.) Those salaries add up to $50.39 million. Now assume the salary cap for 2009-2010 is going to be $69 million. Some speculation is it could go as low as $68 million, but let's be a bit generous.
The 20th pick in the NBA draft gets $1.32 million. Salary total for 9 players is now at $51.71. Add two minimum wage players for $550,000 apiece. $52.81. So, can Okur and Millsap be retained for $16.19 million?
Okur is going to want at least $11 million the first year. At least. Millsap is going to want $7 or $8 million.
The only way I see it working is if the Jazz can get someone under the cap (like Oklahoma City) to take CJ Miles ($3.7 mil) in a trade for a second-round pick. Assume another minimum wage pick, and now they have $19.34 million. $11 million for Okur and $8 million for Millsap.
Done.
For next season the Jazz will have under contract Deron Williams, Andrei Kirilenko, Ronnie Brewer, CJ Miles, Kosta Koufos, Matt Harpring, Kyle Korver and Kyrylo Fesenko (assuming the Jazz pick up his $810,000 option.) Those salaries add up to $50.39 million. Now assume the salary cap for 2009-2010 is going to be $69 million. Some speculation is it could go as low as $68 million, but let's be a bit generous.
The 20th pick in the NBA draft gets $1.32 million. Salary total for 9 players is now at $51.71. Add two minimum wage players for $550,000 apiece. $52.81. So, can Okur and Millsap be retained for $16.19 million?
Okur is going to want at least $11 million the first year. At least. Millsap is going to want $7 or $8 million.
The only way I see it working is if the Jazz can get someone under the cap (like Oklahoma City) to take CJ Miles ($3.7 mil) in a trade for a second-round pick. Assume another minimum wage pick, and now they have $19.34 million. $11 million for Okur and $8 million for Millsap.
Done.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
So who's in the NBA draft again?
With the Jazz doomed to have their first first-round exit from the playoffs since John Stockton's retirement, the Jazz find themselves in a position they weren't supposed to be in. They have a first-round pick. This pick was traded away when they swapped Gordon Giricek for Kyle Korver, but it was protected up to #22. Surely the Jazz were going to compete for the Northwest Division title and finish with a record that would put them lower than #22, right?
Well, now they have the 20th pick. So what might they do with it?
Let's assume everyone who can opt out does, leaving the Jazz with less than half their roster signed. What do they do?
They could go point guard. Either Stephen Curry or Jeff Teague will likely be available, and they could groom him into the solid backup that neither Brevin Knight or Ronnie Price have proved to be, and both of them will be free agents.
Center? The Jazz are always looking for big men, and they could get another OSU player with BJ Mullens. Okur might walk, but I can see the Jazz matching whatever offer he can find within reason. Jarron Collins and/or Kyrylo Fesenko won't be back.
Power forward. One of Carlos Boozer or Paul Millsap will be gone next year, so the Jazz need to think about their bench. Tyler Hansbrough should be there, and he's the height (6'8") the Jazz have found success in their rebounders. Kentucky's Patrick Pattersen may fall to them too.
Wingman? I seriously doubt this. Unless they plan to let Kyle Korver and Morris Almond walk, and trade away C.J. Miles, this is the last position they need to look at.
Personally I can see the Jazz using the pick in a trade more than anything else, and I hope it's not one of those give-away-for-free Phoenix type trades either.
Andrei Kirilenko, CJ Miles and the #18 pick to Sacramento for the #1 pick! heh heh
Well, now they have the 20th pick. So what might they do with it?
Let's assume everyone who can opt out does, leaving the Jazz with less than half their roster signed. What do they do?
They could go point guard. Either Stephen Curry or Jeff Teague will likely be available, and they could groom him into the solid backup that neither Brevin Knight or Ronnie Price have proved to be, and both of them will be free agents.
Center? The Jazz are always looking for big men, and they could get another OSU player with BJ Mullens. Okur might walk, but I can see the Jazz matching whatever offer he can find within reason. Jarron Collins and/or Kyrylo Fesenko won't be back.
Power forward. One of Carlos Boozer or Paul Millsap will be gone next year, so the Jazz need to think about their bench. Tyler Hansbrough should be there, and he's the height (6'8") the Jazz have found success in their rebounders. Kentucky's Patrick Pattersen may fall to them too.
Wingman? I seriously doubt this. Unless they plan to let Kyle Korver and Morris Almond walk, and trade away C.J. Miles, this is the last position they need to look at.
Personally I can see the Jazz using the pick in a trade more than anything else, and I hope it's not one of those give-away-for-free Phoenix type trades either.
Andrei Kirilenko, CJ Miles and the #18 pick to Sacramento for the #1 pick! heh heh
Monday, April 20, 2009
Lakers beat Jazz easily
The Jazz have been stumbling as of late anyway, but with no Mehmet Okur, they had no prayer against the Lakers for Game 1. The Lakeshow got everything they wanted, and with no Okur to spread the floor, Pau Gasol and Andrew bynum were able to hang out in the paint.
Carlos Boozer still got his points, but he's 6'8", Paul Millsap is 6'7", and Gasol and Bynum are both 7-footers. This would mean they'd need AK47 to be his old help-defense self, but that guy disappeared once the long contract was signed. Remember when Kirilenko was in the Top 5 in the league for blocks and steals? Yeah, thems were the days.
Carlos Boozer still got his points, but he's 6'8", Paul Millsap is 6'7", and Gasol and Bynum are both 7-footers. This would mean they'd need AK47 to be his old help-defense self, but that guy disappeared once the long contract was signed. Remember when Kirilenko was in the Top 5 in the league for blocks and steals? Yeah, thems were the days.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Utah Jazz's downhill spiral
This was supposed to be the most talented Jazz team assembled since John & Karl had their dreams crushed by the Bulls. Three former All-Stars on the team (Boozer, Kirilenko, Okur) and a fourth guy that should be (Deron Williams). Talented youngsters that play above their draft status (Ronnie Brewer, Paul Millsap). One of the best catch-and-shoot three-point aces in the game (Kyle Korver). Not to mention C.J. Miles, Matt Harpring, and Brevin Knight, making this one of the deepest teams in the league. If only they could get over their injuries.
If the Jazz get bounced in the first round by the Lakers, which they almost certainly will, this will make it the most disappointing Jazz season since their 26-56 abhorration. Many guys will be free agents, or have potential to be. Assumign those who can opt out, will, that would leave the team with Williams, Kirilenko, Brewer, Miles, Harpring, and Kosta Koufos. A roster of 15 down to 6. Factor in a first-round pick they thought they would lose but is now protected, and that's 7. so who of the 9 comes back?
The biggest three are Boozer, Okur and Millsap. No way all three will be back, as D-Will and AK-47 are already on max contracts. Boozer has had injuries hamper three of his four seasons here. He might want max money but his health demonstrates that only a foolish team should give it to him. Okur won't make much more on the open market than he already makes, but he and his agent might decide that this year is a better time to go shopping than the Class of 2010. Millsap meanwhile has shown when he gets the time he's worth more than a midlevel.
Something has soured in the chemistry of this team. Boozer came back in the middle of a 12-game winning streak, but their efforts have clearly lacked in the past three weeks. Their rebounding is down, their opponents' scoring is up.
I think it's hurt them to not have Larry H. Miller around to push them. The coach is the main guy, but it's as though he's been tuned out. But LHM had the clout to say "I personally am paying you millions. Now where's your effort?"
Lakers in 5.
If the Jazz get bounced in the first round by the Lakers, which they almost certainly will, this will make it the most disappointing Jazz season since their 26-56 abhorration. Many guys will be free agents, or have potential to be. Assumign those who can opt out, will, that would leave the team with Williams, Kirilenko, Brewer, Miles, Harpring, and Kosta Koufos. A roster of 15 down to 6. Factor in a first-round pick they thought they would lose but is now protected, and that's 7. so who of the 9 comes back?
The biggest three are Boozer, Okur and Millsap. No way all three will be back, as D-Will and AK-47 are already on max contracts. Boozer has had injuries hamper three of his four seasons here. He might want max money but his health demonstrates that only a foolish team should give it to him. Okur won't make much more on the open market than he already makes, but he and his agent might decide that this year is a better time to go shopping than the Class of 2010. Millsap meanwhile has shown when he gets the time he's worth more than a midlevel.
Something has soured in the chemistry of this team. Boozer came back in the middle of a 12-game winning streak, but their efforts have clearly lacked in the past three weeks. Their rebounding is down, their opponents' scoring is up.
I think it's hurt them to not have Larry H. Miller around to push them. The coach is the main guy, but it's as though he's been tuned out. But LHM had the clout to say "I personally am paying you millions. Now where's your effort?"
Lakers in 5.
Friday, March 6, 2009
If the NBA Playoffs started this second
IF THE PLAYOFFS STARTED THIS SECOND
The standings will be different in a few hours, but what if they started right now?
EAST
1-CLEVELAND v. 8-MILWAUKEE - The Bucks gets slaughtered. Cavs in 4, maybe 5.
2-BOSTON v. 7-PHILADELPHIA - KG's injured, but the Big Three are still determined to be a dynasty, not a one-season wonder. (*cough* Heat! *cough*) Celtics in 5.
3-ORLANDO v. 6-DETROIT - This will actually be interesting. They're a better team without Allen Iverson. Yes, they don't have Billups, but Orlando doesn't have Jameer Nelson either. Dwight Howard will have to work for his numbers against Rasheed Wallace, but he'll still get them. More intriguing would be watching Tayshaun Prince keeping Rashard Lewis out of it, and Rip Hamilton trying to out-shoot Hedo Turkoglu. But Flip Saunders is gone. Magic in 7, or 5 if A.I. is back.
4-ATLANTA v. 5-MIAMI - There will be at least one game that the Hawks should win that they lose because Dwyane Wade carries his team on his back singlehandedly. Heat in 7.
1-CLEVELAND v. 5-MIAMI - LeBron and D-Wade. Only one has a ring. Mwa ha ha! Cavs in 6.
2-BOSTON v. 3-ORLANDO - Very intriguing. I think Stan Van Gundy's a better X-and-O coach than Doc Rivers. I never thought Doc was that great a coach, but if you suddenly have Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett, well, they coach themselves, and no other teammate is going to try to be selfish on the court with them. Who's hungrier? Celts. I like Rondo over Alston in the point-guard match-up, I like Howard over Perkins in the center match-up (heh). Bench play is a little deeper in Orlando but not by much. When in doubt... Celtics in 7.
1-CLEVELAND v. 2-BOSTON - Mo Williams is better on offense; Rondo is better on defense. LeBron and KG will be epic. I think they're really close, but I'll go with defense. Celtcs in 6.
WEST
1-L.A. LAKERS v. 8-DALLAS - The Mavericks will split the 2 in L.A., then the Lakers will split the two in Dallas. Dirk will be broken by the home loss. Lakers in 6.
2-SAN ANTONIO v. 7-PORTLAND - The young Blazers could put a scare in to the Spurs, but if the Spurs Big Three all play, no chance. Spurs in 5.
3-DENVER v. 6-UTAH - Tonight's game may serve as a preview, but the Jazz are too deep for the Nuggets. Jazz in 6.
4-NEW ORLEANS v. 5-HOUSTON - There are a few teams the Rockets could beat in the first round, but this is one that could give them fits. CP3 can run circles around Aaron Brooks, and Tyson Chandler won't be a pushover for Yao. Ron Artest and Shane Battier can keep David West off his game here and there. Rick Adelman and Byron Scott will make for a good coaching duel. Both teams are hot right now. Tough one, but Hornets in 7.
1-L.A. LAKERS v. 4-NEW ORLEANS - Epic. Too bad Andrew Bynum is out. Yes, Pau Gasol has been just fine getting things done, but I see match-up issues here. Kobe Bryant will have at least two 40-point games. Lakers in 7.
2-SAN ANTONIO v. 6-UTAH - The Spurs have held the Jazz's number for over a decade, but the Spurs are finally old enough, and the Jazz's young guys are finally just seasoned enough for the series to go in Jerry's kids' favor. Jazz in 6.
1-L.A. LAKERS v. 6-UTAH - I know I'm wearing homer glasses here, but with the Jazz finally healthy, their record belies how good they really are. The L10 column is a better tell where they stand, and they've already shown they know how to beat the Lakers. Jazz in 6.
NBA FINALS: BOSTON v. UTAH
The standings will be different in a few hours, but what if they started right now?
EAST
1-CLEVELAND v. 8-MILWAUKEE - The Bucks gets slaughtered. Cavs in 4, maybe 5.
2-BOSTON v. 7-PHILADELPHIA - KG's injured, but the Big Three are still determined to be a dynasty, not a one-season wonder. (*cough* Heat! *cough*) Celtics in 5.
3-ORLANDO v. 6-DETROIT - This will actually be interesting. They're a better team without Allen Iverson. Yes, they don't have Billups, but Orlando doesn't have Jameer Nelson either. Dwight Howard will have to work for his numbers against Rasheed Wallace, but he'll still get them. More intriguing would be watching Tayshaun Prince keeping Rashard Lewis out of it, and Rip Hamilton trying to out-shoot Hedo Turkoglu. But Flip Saunders is gone. Magic in 7, or 5 if A.I. is back.
4-ATLANTA v. 5-MIAMI - There will be at least one game that the Hawks should win that they lose because Dwyane Wade carries his team on his back singlehandedly. Heat in 7.
1-CLEVELAND v. 5-MIAMI - LeBron and D-Wade. Only one has a ring. Mwa ha ha! Cavs in 6.
2-BOSTON v. 3-ORLANDO - Very intriguing. I think Stan Van Gundy's a better X-and-O coach than Doc Rivers. I never thought Doc was that great a coach, but if you suddenly have Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett, well, they coach themselves, and no other teammate is going to try to be selfish on the court with them. Who's hungrier? Celts. I like Rondo over Alston in the point-guard match-up, I like Howard over Perkins in the center match-up (heh). Bench play is a little deeper in Orlando but not by much. When in doubt... Celtics in 7.
1-CLEVELAND v. 2-BOSTON - Mo Williams is better on offense; Rondo is better on defense. LeBron and KG will be epic. I think they're really close, but I'll go with defense. Celtcs in 6.
WEST
1-L.A. LAKERS v. 8-DALLAS - The Mavericks will split the 2 in L.A., then the Lakers will split the two in Dallas. Dirk will be broken by the home loss. Lakers in 6.
2-SAN ANTONIO v. 7-PORTLAND - The young Blazers could put a scare in to the Spurs, but if the Spurs Big Three all play, no chance. Spurs in 5.
3-DENVER v. 6-UTAH - Tonight's game may serve as a preview, but the Jazz are too deep for the Nuggets. Jazz in 6.
4-NEW ORLEANS v. 5-HOUSTON - There are a few teams the Rockets could beat in the first round, but this is one that could give them fits. CP3 can run circles around Aaron Brooks, and Tyson Chandler won't be a pushover for Yao. Ron Artest and Shane Battier can keep David West off his game here and there. Rick Adelman and Byron Scott will make for a good coaching duel. Both teams are hot right now. Tough one, but Hornets in 7.
1-L.A. LAKERS v. 4-NEW ORLEANS - Epic. Too bad Andrew Bynum is out. Yes, Pau Gasol has been just fine getting things done, but I see match-up issues here. Kobe Bryant will have at least two 40-point games. Lakers in 7.
2-SAN ANTONIO v. 6-UTAH - The Spurs have held the Jazz's number for over a decade, but the Spurs are finally old enough, and the Jazz's young guys are finally just seasoned enough for the series to go in Jerry's kids' favor. Jazz in 6.
1-L.A. LAKERS v. 6-UTAH - I know I'm wearing homer glasses here, but with the Jazz finally healthy, their record belies how good they really are. The L10 column is a better tell where they stand, and they've already shown they know how to beat the Lakers. Jazz in 6.
NBA FINALS: BOSTON v. UTAH
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
NBA Power Rankings
My Latest NBA Power Rankings
I took advantage of having NBA TV, watching more games and highlights of games. Alas, it is over.
Eastern
1. BOSTON - KG, Pierce, and Ray all look determined to be a dynasty. Not a one-and-done champion like the Heat. They want to be the first team since the Shaq-Kobe Lakers to win repeat championships.
2. CLEVELAND - Man, the Jazz had Mo Williams at one point and let him walk away for nothing because they still had Raul Lopez. Heh. I know there's a lot of speculation that Lebron is going to leave in 2010, but if the team he's surrounded with now is winning, and especially if he gets ring in the next two years, why would he leave? Money. If he cares more about money than winning, he'll head to New York. I wouldn't be surprised at all to see him stay.
3. ORLANDO - Dwight Howard is a younger, slimmer, in-shape Shaq, which is scary for everyone else. They have a pretty versatile supporting cast too, with different guys stepping up on different nights. Rafer Alston should be serviceable since Jameer Nelson is out, but at this point I don't see the Magic beating the Cavs or the Celtics.
4. ATLANTA - There's the top three in the East, and then here on the second tier, the Hawks rule the roost. Mike Bibby and Joe Johnson are deadly from outside, making it easy for Al Horford and Josh Smith to have their nights. The Hawks took the Celts to the mat last year, and they're a better team this year.
5. MIAMI - Too soon to tell if the Jermaine O'Neal trade is going to work out for them, but Dwyane Wade has been proving nightly why he's one of the best in the league.
6. DETROIT - They're like the Spurs of the East, but with fewer rings. Until they get knocked out in the first round, it's foolish to sleep on the Pistons. And yet they're another year older, and the A.I.-Billups trade has worked out a lot better for the Nuggets than the Pistons. If they get the wrong match-up, they could easily be bounced in the first round.
7. INDIANA - Danny Granger's injury hurts them. Now is not the time for them to be dropping games they otherwise would win if their star player was healthy.
8. PHILADELPHIA - Elton Brand = free-agent bust. I thought it was a good move at the time, but it just didn't work out.
9. CHICAGO - I think the trades they've made helps them this year. Brad Miller's back in his old stomping ground, John Salmons boosts the backcourt (in fact, they now have the luxury of a clogged backcourt), and they'll be in better shape salary-wise down the road.
10. MILKWAUKEE - Had they been healthy all year, they'd be pencilled in for at least a seventh seed in the playoffs, but alas, the Injury Bug has bitten often. I didn't expect much noise from them at the trade deadline. This summer is when more important decisions will be made.
11. NEW JERSEY - The Nets added by not subtracting. They needed more front-court help, but if they'd jettisoned Vince Carter, they would have sent the signal they're giving up on making the playoffs. Devin Harris and Vince Carter have proven to be a deadly backcourt duo, but I think it'd be good for the young players on the team to experience the playoffs again, even if it's a first-round stomping.
12. NEW YORK - They kept David Lee and added Larry Hughes, who can make up for a bit of the scoring they lost when they traded away Jamal Crawford. The playoffs are still a possibility; in fact, a realistic possibility, as Chris Wilcox can be that seventh-eighth guy, where Malik Rose couldn't.
13. TORONTO - Maybe Marion can give them a boost, but it's going to take a lot of luck for them to make it to the eighth seed. I think Chris Bosh is just going to play out his contract and skedaddle in 2010. Which means Marion is a priority re-sign this summer.
14. CHARLOTTE - When your head coach is in his late 60's, do you really want to continue in rebuilding mode? And yet, whoever the eighth seed is will have a losing record, so they still have a chance. A small small chance.
15. WASHINGTON - Thanks for nothing, Agent Zero.
Western
1. L.A. LAKERS - Until they lost Andrew Bynum, they looked unstoppable for a return to the NBA Finals. But with Bynum out, and no Ronny Turiaf to fall back on, I guess they're hoping Josh Powell can give a little. Getting rid of Radmanovic means Lamar Odom gets more time. I don't see the Lakers losing the #1 seed, but it might be closer that it would have been had Bynum not gone down.
2. SAN ANTONIO - They're pacing themselves. This is what the Spurs do. They bounce around in the middle of the pack for a while and then their winning trajectory slowly goes up, and then they have a great April and become that team no one wants to face. Too bad they couldn't pull off the Vince Carter trade though.
3. NEW ORLEANS - Awkwaaaard. Tyson Chandler was gone, and this team instantly became a first-round exit. But now Chandler is back. If he can stay healthy, they're deadly. If his turf toe or other injuries sideline him, well, the Hornets have a great starting five but they're still not that deep. Chris Paul will singlehandedly win them some game, and it'll be considered a disappointment if they don't at least make the second round.
4. DENVER - All hail Chauncey Billups. This talented team just needed the right leader, and they found him. He turned Nene into a beast, he made Kenyon Martin relevant again, but most importantly, he helped Carmelo get his numbers and win at the same time.
5. UTAH - They beat the Lakers and Celtics without Carlos Boozer, and now they get him back. As long as injuries finally leave them alone, they should be scary good in the playoffs. The trouble is they still need to prove they can win on the road. Injuries can be blamed to a degree for their 9-17 road record, but really, they've lost a lot of games in single digits they should have won. D-Will's playing like he takes it personally he wasn't invited to All-Star weekend, which is a good thing.
6. PORTLAND - They have the pieces in place. They'll scare someone in the first round, but I don't see much beyond that. Next year, though, look out.
7. HOUSTON - It seems like the Rockets and the Suns are fighting to avoid the playoffs, but I see Yao Ming keeping his team in it. They lose T-Mac for the year, they traded Rafer Alston for Kyle Lowry... yeah, I see them trading T-Mac in the summer for some pieces, and doubling-down on Aaron Brooks.
8. DALLAS - Thanks to the events in Houston and Phoenix, this is the lowest seed I see the Mavs getting in the playoffs. They had a rough start to the season, but it's come together nicely as of late.
9. PHOENIX - They didn't trade Amare Stoudamire but they lost him for the remainder of the regular season anyway. I don't think Steve Nash, Shaquille O'Neal and Jason Richardson are going to be enough to get them out of ninth place, which is where they sit now.
10. GOLDEN STATE - Irrelevant. They'll score in bunches and might get an occasional upset, but without a strong point guard, they're like a bunch of Gungans running around in circles.
11. MINNESOTA - Kevin McHale's been an improvement as coach, but losing Al Jefferson for the year means another season hoping they land in the top three in the lottery.
12. MEMPHIS - Giving away Kyle Lowry for a pick at the bottom of the first round doesn't seem too smart.
13. L.A. CLIPPERS - I wonder if Baron Davis lays awake night going, "Yes, I have my millions, but am I really going to be stuck as a Clipper for the rest of my career?"
14. OKLAHOMA CITY - Tyson Chandler would have been a nice boost for a hopeful future. How happy could Thunder fans possibly be that they wound up with Malik Rose instead?
15. SACRAMENTO - Well, they still have Kevin Martin... and that's about it.
I took advantage of having NBA TV, watching more games and highlights of games. Alas, it is over.
Eastern
1. BOSTON - KG, Pierce, and Ray all look determined to be a dynasty. Not a one-and-done champion like the Heat. They want to be the first team since the Shaq-Kobe Lakers to win repeat championships.
2. CLEVELAND - Man, the Jazz had Mo Williams at one point and let him walk away for nothing because they still had Raul Lopez. Heh. I know there's a lot of speculation that Lebron is going to leave in 2010, but if the team he's surrounded with now is winning, and especially if he gets ring in the next two years, why would he leave? Money. If he cares more about money than winning, he'll head to New York. I wouldn't be surprised at all to see him stay.
3. ORLANDO - Dwight Howard is a younger, slimmer, in-shape Shaq, which is scary for everyone else. They have a pretty versatile supporting cast too, with different guys stepping up on different nights. Rafer Alston should be serviceable since Jameer Nelson is out, but at this point I don't see the Magic beating the Cavs or the Celtics.
4. ATLANTA - There's the top three in the East, and then here on the second tier, the Hawks rule the roost. Mike Bibby and Joe Johnson are deadly from outside, making it easy for Al Horford and Josh Smith to have their nights. The Hawks took the Celts to the mat last year, and they're a better team this year.
5. MIAMI - Too soon to tell if the Jermaine O'Neal trade is going to work out for them, but Dwyane Wade has been proving nightly why he's one of the best in the league.
6. DETROIT - They're like the Spurs of the East, but with fewer rings. Until they get knocked out in the first round, it's foolish to sleep on the Pistons. And yet they're another year older, and the A.I.-Billups trade has worked out a lot better for the Nuggets than the Pistons. If they get the wrong match-up, they could easily be bounced in the first round.
7. INDIANA - Danny Granger's injury hurts them. Now is not the time for them to be dropping games they otherwise would win if their star player was healthy.
8. PHILADELPHIA - Elton Brand = free-agent bust. I thought it was a good move at the time, but it just didn't work out.
9. CHICAGO - I think the trades they've made helps them this year. Brad Miller's back in his old stomping ground, John Salmons boosts the backcourt (in fact, they now have the luxury of a clogged backcourt), and they'll be in better shape salary-wise down the road.
10. MILKWAUKEE - Had they been healthy all year, they'd be pencilled in for at least a seventh seed in the playoffs, but alas, the Injury Bug has bitten often. I didn't expect much noise from them at the trade deadline. This summer is when more important decisions will be made.
11. NEW JERSEY - The Nets added by not subtracting. They needed more front-court help, but if they'd jettisoned Vince Carter, they would have sent the signal they're giving up on making the playoffs. Devin Harris and Vince Carter have proven to be a deadly backcourt duo, but I think it'd be good for the young players on the team to experience the playoffs again, even if it's a first-round stomping.
12. NEW YORK - They kept David Lee and added Larry Hughes, who can make up for a bit of the scoring they lost when they traded away Jamal Crawford. The playoffs are still a possibility; in fact, a realistic possibility, as Chris Wilcox can be that seventh-eighth guy, where Malik Rose couldn't.
13. TORONTO - Maybe Marion can give them a boost, but it's going to take a lot of luck for them to make it to the eighth seed. I think Chris Bosh is just going to play out his contract and skedaddle in 2010. Which means Marion is a priority re-sign this summer.
14. CHARLOTTE - When your head coach is in his late 60's, do you really want to continue in rebuilding mode? And yet, whoever the eighth seed is will have a losing record, so they still have a chance. A small small chance.
15. WASHINGTON - Thanks for nothing, Agent Zero.
Western
1. L.A. LAKERS - Until they lost Andrew Bynum, they looked unstoppable for a return to the NBA Finals. But with Bynum out, and no Ronny Turiaf to fall back on, I guess they're hoping Josh Powell can give a little. Getting rid of Radmanovic means Lamar Odom gets more time. I don't see the Lakers losing the #1 seed, but it might be closer that it would have been had Bynum not gone down.
2. SAN ANTONIO - They're pacing themselves. This is what the Spurs do. They bounce around in the middle of the pack for a while and then their winning trajectory slowly goes up, and then they have a great April and become that team no one wants to face. Too bad they couldn't pull off the Vince Carter trade though.
3. NEW ORLEANS - Awkwaaaard. Tyson Chandler was gone, and this team instantly became a first-round exit. But now Chandler is back. If he can stay healthy, they're deadly. If his turf toe or other injuries sideline him, well, the Hornets have a great starting five but they're still not that deep. Chris Paul will singlehandedly win them some game, and it'll be considered a disappointment if they don't at least make the second round.
4. DENVER - All hail Chauncey Billups. This talented team just needed the right leader, and they found him. He turned Nene into a beast, he made Kenyon Martin relevant again, but most importantly, he helped Carmelo get his numbers and win at the same time.
5. UTAH - They beat the Lakers and Celtics without Carlos Boozer, and now they get him back. As long as injuries finally leave them alone, they should be scary good in the playoffs. The trouble is they still need to prove they can win on the road. Injuries can be blamed to a degree for their 9-17 road record, but really, they've lost a lot of games in single digits they should have won. D-Will's playing like he takes it personally he wasn't invited to All-Star weekend, which is a good thing.
6. PORTLAND - They have the pieces in place. They'll scare someone in the first round, but I don't see much beyond that. Next year, though, look out.
7. HOUSTON - It seems like the Rockets and the Suns are fighting to avoid the playoffs, but I see Yao Ming keeping his team in it. They lose T-Mac for the year, they traded Rafer Alston for Kyle Lowry... yeah, I see them trading T-Mac in the summer for some pieces, and doubling-down on Aaron Brooks.
8. DALLAS - Thanks to the events in Houston and Phoenix, this is the lowest seed I see the Mavs getting in the playoffs. They had a rough start to the season, but it's come together nicely as of late.
9. PHOENIX - They didn't trade Amare Stoudamire but they lost him for the remainder of the regular season anyway. I don't think Steve Nash, Shaquille O'Neal and Jason Richardson are going to be enough to get them out of ninth place, which is where they sit now.
10. GOLDEN STATE - Irrelevant. They'll score in bunches and might get an occasional upset, but without a strong point guard, they're like a bunch of Gungans running around in circles.
11. MINNESOTA - Kevin McHale's been an improvement as coach, but losing Al Jefferson for the year means another season hoping they land in the top three in the lottery.
12. MEMPHIS - Giving away Kyle Lowry for a pick at the bottom of the first round doesn't seem too smart.
13. L.A. CLIPPERS - I wonder if Baron Davis lays awake night going, "Yes, I have my millions, but am I really going to be stuck as a Clipper for the rest of my career?"
14. OKLAHOMA CITY - Tyson Chandler would have been a nice boost for a hopeful future. How happy could Thunder fans possibly be that they wound up with Malik Rose instead?
15. SACRAMENTO - Well, they still have Kevin Martin... and that's about it.
Monday, February 2, 2009
A super Super Bowl
Two good Super Bowls in a row? Wow. Growing up I remember more often than not, the Super Bowl was a blow-out. Sometimes that'd be cool, like watching Joe Montana and the 49ers pile on John Elway and the Broncos to the tune of 55-10, but if they were two teams I didn't care much about, it made the whole thing anticlimactic. I think that's one factor why Super Bowl commercials became so big. Some years they really were more entertaining than the game.
At my house, we wound up rooting for the Cardinals. It's an underdog thing. And for me, I still feel like the Steelers stole one from the Seahawks three years ago. We cheered widly when Larry Fitzgerald and Kurt Warner looked like they pulled off the upset of the year. And the Cards were two inches away from getting a second safety in the game. But you have to hand it to Big Ben. The Steelers defense has been touted all year but they needed their offense to get the win.
At my house, we wound up rooting for the Cardinals. It's an underdog thing. And for me, I still feel like the Steelers stole one from the Seahawks three years ago. We cheered widly when Larry Fitzgerald and Kurt Warner looked like they pulled off the upset of the year. And the Cards were two inches away from getting a second safety in the game. But you have to hand it to Big Ben. The Steelers defense has been touted all year but they needed their offense to get the win.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Jazz injury woes continue
The Utah Jazz have played 43 games, have a record of 25-18, and are currently 7th in the West. This is remarkable considering the amounts of games their players have missed:
Carlos Boozer - 31 games
Deron Williams - 13 games
Mehmet Okur - 8 games
Paul Millsap - 6 games
Andrei Kirilenko - 5 games
Ronnie Brewer - 1 game
CJ Miles - 3 games
Kyle Korver - 4 games
Matt Harpring - 14 games
Brevin Knight - 6 games
Boozer and Williams have only played two games together. They have yet to play a game with their top seven players all healthy.
Now their pattern now seems to be following what it's been the past year or two. Win at home (17-4), lose on the road (8-14). They'yre still only 3 games out of 2nd int he West, and this is a team that need home-court advantage. If Boozer can come back for the last 25-30 games of the season, they'll be a force, and with half of their roster becoming free agents this summer, this is the year they need to make a splash.
Carlos Boozer - 31 games
Deron Williams - 13 games
Mehmet Okur - 8 games
Paul Millsap - 6 games
Andrei Kirilenko - 5 games
Ronnie Brewer - 1 game
CJ Miles - 3 games
Kyle Korver - 4 games
Matt Harpring - 14 games
Brevin Knight - 6 games
Boozer and Williams have only played two games together. They have yet to play a game with their top seven players all healthy.
Now their pattern now seems to be following what it's been the past year or two. Win at home (17-4), lose on the road (8-14). They'yre still only 3 games out of 2nd int he West, and this is a team that need home-court advantage. If Boozer can come back for the last 25-30 games of the season, they'll be a force, and with half of their roster becoming free agents this summer, this is the year they need to make a splash.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Utah beats Alabama, exposes BCS
NOW can we get a playoff system for college football? Can you imagine the NFL looking at the teams that made the playoffs and just saying, "Okay, we'll have the Titans play the Giants, and that will be the champion. The rest of you, thanks for your efforts."
The Utah Utes are the only undefeated college football team out there. They beat schools from three different BCS conferences. They deserve to at least be co-champions with whoever wins the Florida-Oklahoma game. It still amazes me that the champion for college football more closely resembles judging for ice-skating than the NFL.
Every year there's debate over who the best teams are, who should be national champions. End the debate and have a playoff system. It's stupid every year we say "This team should have had a shot" and then someone who disagress can bring up stats and tradition and whatever, but that's just it. It's debate. It's an intellectual exercise. It's not a real way to determine a football champion.
The Utah Utes are the only undefeated college football team out there. They beat schools from three different BCS conferences. They deserve to at least be co-champions with whoever wins the Florida-Oklahoma game. It still amazes me that the champion for college football more closely resembles judging for ice-skating than the NFL.
Every year there's debate over who the best teams are, who should be national champions. End the debate and have a playoff system. It's stupid every year we say "This team should have had a shot" and then someone who disagress can bring up stats and tradition and whatever, but that's just it. It's debate. It's an intellectual exercise. It's not a real way to determine a football champion.
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