Loyal readers: apologies for not posting in a while, and leaving you in the hands of Thornton, who has obviously signed over his posting privileges to Kim Jong Un or Skip Bayless. Kobe Bryant as the scoring champion? The Blazers as the Western Champions? No freaking chance in hell. Your rational predictions follow. But first, a quick look at your 2012 Washington Wizards.
MVP: Thornton is continuing to confuse "Best all-around game" with "Most Valuable Player." In light of the 2011 Colts, I can't emphasize enough that MVP should be given to the player who contributes the most to his team given his surrounding pieces. Under this conception, Derrick Rose makes perfect sense--replace Rose with any other pg in the league, and the Bulls don't sniff anywhere close to the East Finals.
This year? No player sharing a court with DWade or Bosh deserves the honor. Durant, Paul, and Melo have too many other good pieces surrounding them. Nash, Duncan, Pierce, and Garnett are too old. Deron Williams and Dwight aren't going to win enough games. The race comes down to three names: Kobe, Rose, and Dirk. My prediction: Dirk ekes out a narrow win after the Mavs win 50 despite the realization that Chandler was way more important to last year's team than they realized.
Scoring Leader: Kevin Durant
Thornton, did you pay attention to basketball at all this summer?
Disappointment of the Year: Los Angeles Clippers
Lob City is gonna be entertaining as hell to watch, and they will win 45-48 games. But they won't be able to beat OKC, Denver, San Antonio, Miami, Chicago, or Boston. Maybe not even Orlando. They make an early exit from the playoffs.
Surprise of the Year: Philadelphia 76ers
They're young, they're well-coached, and they have a ton of depth. I like the Pacers pick, but I think the 76ers outplay them.
ROY: Kemba Walker
Agree with Thornton here. I think Derrick Williams and Kyrie Irving have higher ceilings, but none of them will have as much responsibility, as early, as Kemba.
Western Conference Champs: OKC Thunder
The young'uns put it together here. This is basically the same team that took the Mavs to 7 in the West Finals last year, except that they added Kendrick Perkins, James Harden makes the Leap, and Kevin Durant grows up to be 23 (he's still only 23!!! how incredible is that!!!) This team will win 52 games.
Eastern Conference Champs: Chicago Bulls
Probably agree with Thornton here, but a man's gotta stand by his principles, and I will never pick LeBron James to win anything. The Bulls got run out by the Heat last year, but I think the Rip Hamilton pickup is sneaky good. The rest of this team is deep, they play rugged, and Derrick Rose (who's also only 23!!!) has an even better season.
NBA Champion: OKC Thunder
They put it together at last, and, as Thornton says, "it won't be close."
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
2012 NBA Predictions
MVP: Lebron James
When Michael Jordan, was the best player in basketball, sports writers would get bored with the pick and take other players from time to time. Karl Malone was the proud beneficiary of said boredom. There starts this justification of whether it is the best player or who is having the best season. Sometimes, the MVP is just the best player. After a hiatus with a "fine" Derrick Rose pick, I think sports writers come back to voting for the actual MVP.
Scoring Leader: Kobe Bryant
What year is this? Kobe cannot possibly be the scoring leader! Well, my answer is who the hell else is going to score for the Lakers. I think Kobe is about 5 games away from seeing enough of Steve Blake, Josh McRoberts, and Metta World Peace shooting the ball. It won't take much before Kobe goes into the mindset, "If I were to pick any person on this team to shoot every possession, it would be me." And this time, Phil Jackson is not there to talk him down from the ledge.
Offensively Bad Team of the Year: Charlotte Bobcats
Like so bad that you just wonder. How, how could you be this bad? Like maybe John Calipari's Kentucky Wildcats could beat you bad. They have been completely mismanaged and got absolutely no value to show for it. They need to have a lot more after loosing Tyson Chandler and Gerard Wallace. The good news is the Anthony Davis lottery goes through Charlotte!
Disappointing Team of the Year: New York Knicks
I love the acquisition of Tyson Chandler. Whoever advised him on where to go, did an excellent job finding a competitor that was in need for his exact skills. I think the Baron Davis move could also pay dividends, though I think it is ludicrous to expect anything more than what the Knicks got last year from now Clipper Chauncey Billups. This team's bench is horrendous. The injury history of the players is high. I haven't like Mike D'Antoni as a coach since he left Steve Nash. They are an injury away from starting....somebody terrible. The expectations for this team just don't match everything it has to offer.
Most Surprising Team: Indiana Pacers, though a later pick may be more surprising
This team is built with solid players who hustle on both ends, know their roles, have high basketball IQs, and continue to improve. The offseason pick up of George Hill and David West may be the most overlooked. I like this team two and three deep across the floor. Listing starter then back-up from across the team: Darren Collison/George Hill, Paul George/Lance Stephenson, Danny Granger/Dahntay Jones, Tyler Hansbrough/David West/Louis Amundson, and Roy Hibbert/Jeff Foster. I just listed 11 guys I wouldn't mind having on the floor. Look for this team to win more than it loses, and to certainly pick up a few wins on nights when the other team is playing a back to back.
Rookie of the Year: Kemba Walker
Yes, the leader of the Offensively Bad Team of the Year will be the Rookie of the Year. This is because he is the whole team as far as I can tell, and it will only take a couple game winners on SportsCenter before everyone notices. I think we are looking at 17.8ppg and 4.6apg by the end of the year with 3 game winners. Sadly, I think the team might only win 15 games, so 20% of those wins will come on Kemba Walker game winners. I think the future could be bright for Walker, I just have no idea when that future will come.
Biggest Non-Trade of the Season: Dwight Howard
Dwight is going to open up in Brooklyn. He will have a handshake with Jay-Z. He will be great with Deron Williams. It will happen via free agency. The will be a 3 seed. They will lose in the conference finals. It will feel like Orlando 2.0.
Biggest Actual Trade of the Season: Steve Nash
To be perfectly frank, I don't know where Nash would go. As much as I hate to say it, I would really like to see him in a Lakers uniform. I think the Lakers should have considered this when they were in the middle of the Paul trades. As far as good teams go with no real point guard, there is no obvious more obvious situation here. The Suns could look at Steve Nash and crummy contracts for either Bynum or Gasol to pair with Gortat.
Western Conference Champs: Portland Trailblazers
WHAT?!? The Trailblazers! You have to be kidding me. Right now, I look over the rosters and I just don't like a lot else out there. If this team gets a year together, they are a very solid team at every position. They have scoring off the bench. They have great defense. They have legitimate low post threat and serious rebounding. If this team can find a defensive groove, I see no reason that they can't pass the old Mavericks, Lakers, and Spurs, while out executing and muscling the Grizzlies, Thunder, and Clippers. It was said here first.
Eastern Conference Champs: Miami Heat
I think we are about to see basketball road kill this season. I hate the Heat in a completely impartial kind of way. I mainly just hate how they have approached everything, but this team is now a defensive stopper with the Greatest Show on Turf offense. I have this sneaking suspicion that we are going to see a Baltimore Ravens defense combined with a Drew Brees offense. And if you were wondering...
NBA Champion: Miami Heat
And it won't be close. Zone Press doesn't like how bought in it is on the Heat this year, but the math is right there. Eventually, the scary NBA Finals gets boring to Lebron and he just decides to take it all out. I think this season could be monster, and there really isn't much that I think will stop it.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Samuel Dalembert Signs with Rockets
Let me start a list of Centers in the NBA who had a better PER than Samuel Dalembert, the new addition to the Zone Press' beloved Houston Rockets. Last performing better offensively included: Brook Lopez, Chris "Birdman, am I only a Center because sometimes Nene needs to rest" Anderson, Marcin Gortat, JaVale McGee, Brad Miller (a Rocket just last year, for way cheaper), Chuck Hayes (a Rocket just last year, for way cheaper), Nazr "Oh God." Mohammed, Marreesse Spreights (Who the hell are you?), Trevor Booker (yes the back-up center for the WIZARDS), and Jeff Foster. Are you kidding me?
The structure of the contract is fine. A two year deal at $13.7 million with a team option second year small buy-out. I had been looking to this deal for awhile in order to sure up a very shaky center position. I thought Dalembert would be a nice option for a player that wouldn't cost much, but could be a really solid option. The fact is that I was very wrong. This is a bad center, so I am looking to the positive. The Rockets bid $14 million to make sure that they get a better lottery pick! I am convinced this team would have been better off with Jordan Hill and Hasheem Thabeet. Is that the worst sentence that has every graced this blog and did I completely lose all credibility, potentially yes. Did I have any credibility to start with? Probably not.
But consider this, Jordan Hill had a PER of 13.10. Sadly that is lower than Dalembert, but he also have fewer blocks/minute. Ok, there is no reason to reasonably think that Jordan Hill would be ready to play Center other than his hair, which is way cooler.
The structure of the contract is fine. A two year deal at $13.7 million with a team option second year small buy-out. I had been looking to this deal for awhile in order to sure up a very shaky center position. I thought Dalembert would be a nice option for a player that wouldn't cost much, but could be a really solid option. The fact is that I was very wrong. This is a bad center, so I am looking to the positive. The Rockets bid $14 million to make sure that they get a better lottery pick! I am convinced this team would have been better off with Jordan Hill and Hasheem Thabeet. Is that the worst sentence that has every graced this blog and did I completely lose all credibility, potentially yes. Did I have any credibility to start with? Probably not.
But consider this, Jordan Hill had a PER of 13.10. Sadly that is lower than Dalembert, but he also have fewer blocks/minute. Ok, there is no reason to reasonably think that Jordan Hill would be ready to play Center other than his hair, which is way cooler.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Chris Paul Goes to the Clippers
Chris Paul will be traded to the Clippers for Eric Gordon, Al-Farouq Aminu, Chris Kaman, and the unprotected 1st round pick of Minnesota. The trade may not offer as much value to the NBA owned Hornets as the original trade with Houston's Kevin Martin, Luis Scola, and the Laker's Lamar Odom, but it does build a lot more to the future. If that unprotected pick turns out to be number one, then we might be looking at a New Orleans Hornets team with Anthony Davis and Eric Gordon. That would certainly be something that a buyer maybe interested in, taking the Hornets off the league's hands.
Stern. Just sit quietly for the next few hours. If I see this get pulled because of something you do, then I pledge not to watch an NBA game this season. I will turn this blog into an NHL blog.
Stern. Just sit quietly for the next few hours. If I see this get pulled because of something you do, then I pledge not to watch an NBA game this season. I will turn this blog into an NHL blog.
As Centers Sign, Rockets Don't Take Off
There were rumors. There were rumors that the Rockets were on their way to Pau Gasol when David Stern came in and stepped on the deal. There were rumors that with the Gasol acquisition, the Rockets were actually the leaders for Nene. A front court of Nene and Gasol would immediately be the top in the league. It would make the Rockets a lock for a playoff birth, and a tough out once the playoffs started.
Now, the Rockets don't have Gasol. They do not have Nene after he signed a $67 million deal with the Nuggets. Chuck Hayes has gone to the Kings in a deal that broke every Rockets fan's heart. Tyson Chandler signed with the Knicks of all places (especially bad since the Rockets own their pick in 2012). Kwame Brown, yes we are to the point when I say the Rockets need Kwame Brown, signed with the Warriors.
The starting center for Rockets is a no. 2 overall pick. But unlike no. 2 overall picks of the past, he has only ever scored 20 points in the D-League. Hasheem, Thabeet is going to be the center for the Rockets this year with Jordan Hill backing him up. I hope they just trade Kevin Martin away for a 1st round pick. Maybe get a pick from the Bulls, who are in desperate need for a 2 guard. The Rockets are in bad, bad shape with the news of the Nene signing. That only means one thing, Anthony Davis starting center for the Houston Rockets 2012.
Now, the Rockets don't have Gasol. They do not have Nene after he signed a $67 million deal with the Nuggets. Chuck Hayes has gone to the Kings in a deal that broke every Rockets fan's heart. Tyson Chandler signed with the Knicks of all places (especially bad since the Rockets own their pick in 2012). Kwame Brown, yes we are to the point when I say the Rockets need Kwame Brown, signed with the Warriors.
The starting center for Rockets is a no. 2 overall pick. But unlike no. 2 overall picks of the past, he has only ever scored 20 points in the D-League. Hasheem, Thabeet is going to be the center for the Rockets this year with Jordan Hill backing him up. I hope they just trade Kevin Martin away for a 1st round pick. Maybe get a pick from the Bulls, who are in desperate need for a 2 guard. The Rockets are in bad, bad shape with the news of the Nene signing. That only means one thing, Anthony Davis starting center for the Houston Rockets 2012.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Kwame Brown to the Rescue!
The Warriors were in the hunt for Chris Paul. They were the front runners in a deal for Tyson Chandler. They could be courting Nene. They got Kwame Brown!! In case you didn't know, Zone Press moved its headquarters out to the The City. That means the Warriors are now the local team of choice. For those keeping track at home, that means I went from the Bobcats and Wizards to the Warriors of the Golden State.
I as a full-fledged local of the greater Bay area, there was a noticeable buzz this morning over the signing of Kwame Brown. I could tell as soon as I woke up. Actually, it was when I got to the office and a co-worker shook his head in disbelief only to repeat $7 million, Kwame Brown, $7 million, Kwame Brown...
I don't think it is a bad move, just a curious one. If Kwame has a good year, what do you accomplish? A few more wins. The Warriors still don't make the playoffs. Now, Kwame is more expensive and you have to let him go. What if he has a bad year? What did you expect it is Kwame Brown. He will bring is 8 ppg, 7rpg, and 12 PER to the Warriors, and I don't think anyone will notice. Yes, The City is a buzz.
I as a full-fledged local of the greater Bay area, there was a noticeable buzz this morning over the signing of Kwame Brown. I could tell as soon as I woke up. Actually, it was when I got to the office and a co-worker shook his head in disbelief only to repeat $7 million, Kwame Brown, $7 million, Kwame Brown...
I don't think it is a bad move, just a curious one. If Kwame has a good year, what do you accomplish? A few more wins. The Warriors still don't make the playoffs. Now, Kwame is more expensive and you have to let him go. What if he has a bad year? What did you expect it is Kwame Brown. He will bring is 8 ppg, 7rpg, and 12 PER to the Warriors, and I don't think anyone will notice. Yes, The City is a buzz.
Monday, December 12, 2011
A Letter to the Clippers
Dear Clippers,
What are you doing? Are you really going to let DeAndre Jordan go away? Are you going to let him sign with the Warriors and not bring him back with his best NBA friend Blake Griffen. Do not let him disappear from your young and growing roster. Every position on your team is talented, and very young. Can a starting five of Eric Bledsoe, Eric Gordon, Al-Farouq Aminu, Blake Griffen, and DeAndre Jordan win the Championship? This year? No. In the next couple, maybe. Add on Caron Butler and Morris Peterson coming off the bench, and the team has legitimate weapons in years to come. Make sure you match.
Please stay away from the Chis Paul trade. Eric Gordon is well on his way to being a top 5 shooting guard. (Despite the overwhelming amount of talent in the NBA right now, this is a pretty low time in terms of Shooting Guard prowess.) Don't give away your future Small Forward in Aminu. Don't give away Eric Bledsoe who is only 22 years old. Don't scrap your team of all of its talent for Chris Paul. The only hope then is to be just as good as the Hornets are now. Is that what you want? Mostly, you have the 1st round pick of the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Timberwolves have a new coach, a point guard who averaged single digit points per game in Spain, 8 power forwards, and Michael Beasley. You might as well just say, we would also like to include Harrison Barnes in this trade.
In summary, Harrison Barnes, Al-Farouq Aminu, Chris Kaman, Eric Bledsoe, and Eric Gordon for Chris Paul. Please save yourself.
Best,
NBA Zone Press
P.S. You are going to do it and Paul will blow out his knee because you are the Clippers.
What are you doing? Are you really going to let DeAndre Jordan go away? Are you going to let him sign with the Warriors and not bring him back with his best NBA friend Blake Griffen. Do not let him disappear from your young and growing roster. Every position on your team is talented, and very young. Can a starting five of Eric Bledsoe, Eric Gordon, Al-Farouq Aminu, Blake Griffen, and DeAndre Jordan win the Championship? This year? No. In the next couple, maybe. Add on Caron Butler and Morris Peterson coming off the bench, and the team has legitimate weapons in years to come. Make sure you match.
Please stay away from the Chis Paul trade. Eric Gordon is well on his way to being a top 5 shooting guard. (Despite the overwhelming amount of talent in the NBA right now, this is a pretty low time in terms of Shooting Guard prowess.) Don't give away your future Small Forward in Aminu. Don't give away Eric Bledsoe who is only 22 years old. Don't scrap your team of all of its talent for Chris Paul. The only hope then is to be just as good as the Hornets are now. Is that what you want? Mostly, you have the 1st round pick of the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Timberwolves have a new coach, a point guard who averaged single digit points per game in Spain, 8 power forwards, and Michael Beasley. You might as well just say, we would also like to include Harrison Barnes in this trade.
In summary, Harrison Barnes, Al-Farouq Aminu, Chris Kaman, Eric Bledsoe, and Eric Gordon for Chris Paul. Please save yourself.
Best,
NBA Zone Press
P.S. You are going to do it and Paul will blow out his knee because you are the Clippers.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Brandon Roy Set to Retire
This is one of the sadder stories in the NBA this season. Brandon Roy is set to face facts that his knees just can't hold up anymore.
To Brandon, this is a good move. When you are 65 and your grandson wants to shoot hoops or you want to see his games, I think that may be something that is still possible. Enjoy your life outside of basketball.
This leads to an interesting situation with the Blazers who can save their amnesty clause and a ton of cap space if this goes through. There are a number of requirements including waiting the season for cap space to open up and having a doctor confirm that the injuries or illness are too much for the wear and tear of basketball.
If I had to guess though, I think Roy will show up on the court a couple more times before it is all said and done. He is such a fierce competitor that I think when it gets down to it, he will won't need to talk himself into it.
To Brandon, this is a good move. When you are 65 and your grandson wants to shoot hoops or you want to see his games, I think that may be something that is still possible. Enjoy your life outside of basketball.
This leads to an interesting situation with the Blazers who can save their amnesty clause and a ton of cap space if this goes through. There are a number of requirements including waiting the season for cap space to open up and having a doctor confirm that the injuries or illness are too much for the wear and tear of basketball.
If I had to guess though, I think Roy will show up on the court a couple more times before it is all said and done. He is such a fierce competitor that I think when it gets down to it, he will won't need to talk himself into it.
Mario Chalmers Looking to Re-Sign with Heat
Mario Chalmers looks like he might be the Heat's point guard again this year. To be honest there isn't a lot of other choices. The Heat's big addition my be Shane Battier, who provides the shooting and the defense that will fit in well with a team of big time playmakers. I think it will also be good to have a player with a high level of maturity on that time. I also really like the addition of Eddy Curry to the camp roster. Yes, that was a joke.
CP3 and Pau Stay Put
Let's recap. Chris Paul was leaving. The Lakers were going to have a point guard for the first time since who knows when, the Rockets finally got a good center since healthy Yao, and the Hornets were clearing out a guard that didn't want to be there. Sounds like a win-win-win.
Then the owners started whining about the Hornets trading away a star player to a big market star team. Stop it. Just stop it. That trade was phenomenal for the Hornets. Let's assign some quick trade grades
Los Angeles Lakers Grade: B-
The Lakers have continued to be competitive year after year for one reason. Size. When they can consistently roll out Bynum, Gasol, and Odom they can win every night. That front court is is strong, big and skilled. Take out Gasol and Odom, that leaves you with one good knee in Andrew Bynum. However, the one thing really holding the Lakers back has been the point guard play. Every team with a quick point guard has wreaked havoc on their team. And the PG spot has been an offensive (both in the quality of play and on that end of the court) bust. Chris Paul is a game changer for sure. Kobe and Paul backcourt is incredible. But Paul, Bryant, World Peace, Bynum, and ....
Houston Rockets Grade: C
Houston fills the biggest need, a center. Pau obviously solves a big problem for the Rockets who have not had a legitimate center (Chuck Hayes, no offense, the Zone Press loves you) since the one time Yao was ever healthy. The trade also helps alleviate the backlog at power forward with Luis Scola, Jordan Hill, Patrick Patterson, and first round pick Marcus Morris. That is an army of power forwards. It is time to let Patterson have more minutes, but also losing Kevin Martin (underrated) and Gragic (appropriately rated) puts this trade at the right level. If that were the trade, I would give it a B. That is a good move, and I would continue to subscribe to Daryl Morey Disciples of Latter Day Power Forwards. It is the last piece that bugs me. The Rockets also give away a 2012 1st round pick. This draft class may not be Lebron, Melo, Wade, Bosh good. However, with so much talent staying in college last year, the one thing this draft will be is deep. Trust the pick.
New Orleans Hornets Grade: A-
How do you trade away one of the best 15 players in the game and get an A- grade? You get more than he is worth. Simple question, will the Hornets win a championship this year? No. Was Chris Paul resigning? No. Ok, good talk. 7 months of Chris Paul for Kevin Martin (underrated), Louis Scola (David West replacement), Lamar Odom (replacement for every position on the floor), Goran Dragic (back-up, maybe it is time to start but not well point guard), and 2 first round picks! Are you telling me the Hornets get 4 starters and two first rounders in the deepest draft in 5 years for 7 months of a player with a questionable knee?
I feel bad for the Hornets. I feel bad for Paul. I feel bad for every player that just had their team trade them to be returned only minutes later. There will certainly be an interesting feel around the locker room later this week.
Then the owners started whining about the Hornets trading away a star player to a big market star team. Stop it. Just stop it. That trade was phenomenal for the Hornets. Let's assign some quick trade grades
Los Angeles Lakers Grade: B-
The Lakers have continued to be competitive year after year for one reason. Size. When they can consistently roll out Bynum, Gasol, and Odom they can win every night. That front court is is strong, big and skilled. Take out Gasol and Odom, that leaves you with one good knee in Andrew Bynum. However, the one thing really holding the Lakers back has been the point guard play. Every team with a quick point guard has wreaked havoc on their team. And the PG spot has been an offensive (both in the quality of play and on that end of the court) bust. Chris Paul is a game changer for sure. Kobe and Paul backcourt is incredible. But Paul, Bryant, World Peace, Bynum, and ....
Houston Rockets Grade: C
Houston fills the biggest need, a center. Pau obviously solves a big problem for the Rockets who have not had a legitimate center (Chuck Hayes, no offense, the Zone Press loves you) since the one time Yao was ever healthy. The trade also helps alleviate the backlog at power forward with Luis Scola, Jordan Hill, Patrick Patterson, and first round pick Marcus Morris. That is an army of power forwards. It is time to let Patterson have more minutes, but also losing Kevin Martin (underrated) and Gragic (appropriately rated) puts this trade at the right level. If that were the trade, I would give it a B. That is a good move, and I would continue to subscribe to Daryl Morey Disciples of Latter Day Power Forwards. It is the last piece that bugs me. The Rockets also give away a 2012 1st round pick. This draft class may not be Lebron, Melo, Wade, Bosh good. However, with so much talent staying in college last year, the one thing this draft will be is deep. Trust the pick.
New Orleans Hornets Grade: A-
How do you trade away one of the best 15 players in the game and get an A- grade? You get more than he is worth. Simple question, will the Hornets win a championship this year? No. Was Chris Paul resigning? No. Ok, good talk. 7 months of Chris Paul for Kevin Martin (underrated), Louis Scola (David West replacement), Lamar Odom (replacement for every position on the floor), Goran Dragic (back-up, maybe it is time to start but not well point guard), and 2 first round picks! Are you telling me the Hornets get 4 starters and two first rounders in the deepest draft in 5 years for 7 months of a player with a questionable knee?
I feel bad for the Hornets. I feel bad for Paul. I feel bad for every player that just had their team trade them to be returned only minutes later. There will certainly be an interesting feel around the locker room later this week.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
NBA is Coming Back
Oh thank god!
I was about 70% sure that we would not have a season this year. It would have easily been one of the worst things for any NBA fan. The league has one of the best years since Magic and Bird were checking box scores and constantly working to best the other, and the owners, agents (I think a secretly underrated problem in this mess.), and players are both pouting like little kids. To be honest, I really was falling more on the sides of the players. I hope that they recognize that huge contracts are not good for the league when they go to Rashard Lewis, but it really isn't there fault. They are not responsible for owners who are dumb as bricks.
Now we get back to Lebron choking, Bosh crying, Celtics dying (except Ray Allen, I am not sure how he continues to survive), OKC growing up, the Kings growing down, Jimmer!, Rose return, Boozer showing up for the first time, the Lakers changes, and of course the Rockets finishing in the middle.
Wel come Back!
I was about 70% sure that we would not have a season this year. It would have easily been one of the worst things for any NBA fan. The league has one of the best years since Magic and Bird were checking box scores and constantly working to best the other, and the owners, agents (I think a secretly underrated problem in this mess.), and players are both pouting like little kids. To be honest, I really was falling more on the sides of the players. I hope that they recognize that huge contracts are not good for the league when they go to Rashard Lewis, but it really isn't there fault. They are not responsible for owners who are dumb as bricks.
Now we get back to Lebron choking, Bosh crying, Celtics dying (except Ray Allen, I am not sure how he continues to survive), OKC growing up, the Kings growing down, Jimmer!, Rose return, Boozer showing up for the first time, the Lakers changes, and of course the Rockets finishing in the middle.
Wel come Back!
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Lockouts Biggest Losers
Boston Celtics
It was in question if the Celtics had enough in the tank 2 years ago. Last year, with teams re-tooled and re-structured, it became very apparent that the athleticism just wasn't there. Rondo desperately needs to find his jumper, so even the President stops ragging on him. If this team was any chance of survival, they are going to need to figure out a way to infuse some young talent fast.
Los Angeles Lakers
Another case of another team that really needs to try to win now and not later. Kobe and Pau are not getting any younger, but I have a feeling a year off means that Bynum will get a lot heavier. This team should do everything in its power to get a season because the window is closing.
Blake Griffin
Now three seasons into the NBA with only one under his belt. The actual loser is probably the NBA fans since we rolled out a Kia to play defense and couldn't stop him.
Tim Duncan
Last year felt like one the last years for Tim. Unfortunately, the team is struggling to find help around him as he is not the same player that he used to be. The ironic twist could be a strike shortened season, which could completely play to the Spurs advantage.
TNT/ESPN/Every TV Station
The ratings for NBA games were climbing to record levels last season. Games were seeing increases of audiences at 40%! The stories of Lebron and Kobe, with Dirk stepping up, and the young talent piling in, the game never looked better, which leads to the biggest loser of all.
NBA Fans
The NFL ending the lockout acted like a tease. The NBA lockout doesn't look close. Somebody please fix this soon.
It was in question if the Celtics had enough in the tank 2 years ago. Last year, with teams re-tooled and re-structured, it became very apparent that the athleticism just wasn't there. Rondo desperately needs to find his jumper, so even the President stops ragging on him. If this team was any chance of survival, they are going to need to figure out a way to infuse some young talent fast.
Los Angeles Lakers
Another case of another team that really needs to try to win now and not later. Kobe and Pau are not getting any younger, but I have a feeling a year off means that Bynum will get a lot heavier. This team should do everything in its power to get a season because the window is closing.
Blake Griffin
Now three seasons into the NBA with only one under his belt. The actual loser is probably the NBA fans since we rolled out a Kia to play defense and couldn't stop him.
Tim Duncan
Last year felt like one the last years for Tim. Unfortunately, the team is struggling to find help around him as he is not the same player that he used to be. The ironic twist could be a strike shortened season, which could completely play to the Spurs advantage.
TNT/ESPN/Every TV Station
The ratings for NBA games were climbing to record levels last season. Games were seeing increases of audiences at 40%! The stories of Lebron and Kobe, with Dirk stepping up, and the young talent piling in, the game never looked better, which leads to the biggest loser of all.
NBA Fans
The NFL ending the lockout acted like a tease. The NBA lockout doesn't look close. Somebody please fix this soon.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Rodman Still Shines on Hall of Fame Night
Dennis Rodman wore his traditional crazy garb when in came time to enter into the Hall this past week. I think that Rodman is wildly colorful and eccentric. He is proof that you can be anyone you want to be in the NBA and be completely respected as long as you bring the game to go with it. I think if Rodman really wanted to blow the doors down, he would do something completely predictable and normal. That would be the most unexpected. But at its core, that is not what Rodman is about. He is colorful and creative, open and energetic, and slightly disturbed.
Rodman has always seemed like so many of his actions come from a place that may be guarded by inner demons. Over time it seems like that place may be more and more comfortable than it used to be. I hope that is the case. He was always such a hard worker, immensely talented, and endlessly entertaining. Congratulations, Worm. The Hall of Fame just got a lot more colorful.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Lockout News and Notes on America's Team
Folks, it's been a while since we last talked. In the intervening months, the Lockout began and became entrenched, the Washington Wizards drafted the Big Smooch, and NBA players added a whole new interpretation to "getting boards."
Despite all of this, be assured that my thoughts have never been far from America's Team. My beloved Washington Wizards are, at long last, bearing the red, white, and blue once more. So without further ado, I present your August 2011 Washington Wizards Update, sponsored in part by the Government of the Phillipines.
(1) NBA Zone Press loves the Wizards' 2011 draft. Big Smooch, Chris Singleton, Shelvin Mack all have serious potential to be pieces on a contender: Smooch is an athletic freak who claims Blake Griffin is "The American Jan Vesely," Singleton has the tools to be an all-pro defensive stopper, and Mack is a quick and smart combo guard who played on two consecutive Butler teams that fought the odds to play in the National Championship.
More than anything else, though, I love the mentality these players bring. Vesely is young, motivated, and one of the rare Euros who seems to relish banging down low. Singleton is a gym rat and a film stud who approaches defense as something to be mastered, not an afterthought. And Mack brings much-needed big game experience to a young team that hasn't ever played in big games. The Wizards are young, hungry, and building a core for the future.
(2) Javale McGee is working hard this offseason:
(3) On day after Durant poured in a much-hyped 66 in Rucker Park, Nick Young dropped 60 in a Drew League game in LA.
(4) Finally, the Reason for Hope, aka the Future, aka your 2010-11 NBA Rookie of the Year (Real Rookies Category) shows why he's already one of the top 10 players in the league in terms of pure dirty athleticism:
And this, at the impact basketball training facility (starting at 0:55):
The Future is now, kids. Your Washington Wizards -- get ready, world.
Despite all of this, be assured that my thoughts have never been far from America's Team. My beloved Washington Wizards are, at long last, bearing the red, white, and blue once more. So without further ado, I present your August 2011 Washington Wizards Update, sponsored in part by the Government of the Phillipines.
(1) NBA Zone Press loves the Wizards' 2011 draft. Big Smooch, Chris Singleton, Shelvin Mack all have serious potential to be pieces on a contender: Smooch is an athletic freak who claims Blake Griffin is "The American Jan Vesely," Singleton has the tools to be an all-pro defensive stopper, and Mack is a quick and smart combo guard who played on two consecutive Butler teams that fought the odds to play in the National Championship.
More than anything else, though, I love the mentality these players bring. Vesely is young, motivated, and one of the rare Euros who seems to relish banging down low. Singleton is a gym rat and a film stud who approaches defense as something to be mastered, not an afterthought. And Mack brings much-needed big game experience to a young team that hasn't ever played in big games. The Wizards are young, hungry, and building a core for the future.
(2) Javale McGee is working hard this offseason:
(3) On day after Durant poured in a much-hyped 66 in Rucker Park, Nick Young dropped 60 in a Drew League game in LA.
(4) Finally, the Reason for Hope, aka the Future, aka your 2010-11 NBA Rookie of the Year (Real Rookies Category) shows why he's already one of the top 10 players in the league in terms of pure dirty athleticism:
And this, at the impact basketball training facility (starting at 0:55):
The Future is now, kids. Your Washington Wizards -- get ready, world.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Top 5 Destinations for Steve Nash
5. New York Knicks
This might actually be a better fit than the next two teams, but Zone Press wants no part of it. Nash and Amare reunited is appealling. The addition of Carmelo makes for a high scoring team. D'Antoni has obviously worked with Nash before, but who will stop anyone. Amare is a better defender than people give him credit for, but between Nash, Carmelo, and Amare it seems like the basket will be pretty open.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves
This rumor has had the most legs, but honestly I hope it doesn't happen for Nash's sake. Really, what would the Timberwolves do with Nash. He has to hold together a team with no center and 5 talented swing players with shared playing time. Granted, the outlet passes from Kevin Love will be awesome, and it would be great to give Rubio a mentor, but let's not waste the last years of Nash.
3. Orlando Magic
The Magic are bogged down with Gilbert Arenas contract. Howard may be on the way out, but a year with Nash could really change things in Orlando. With Nash at the point, the pick and rolls with Howard could be sensational. I am imagining the dunks that will take place. Not only that, but Nash will continue to add to the outside shooting that Stan Van Gundy craves.
2. Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers are getting a little older and a little jaded. The effort last year was shaky and so was the performance. The point guard play between Derek Fisher and Steve Blake was awful. With the triangle offense on the way out, Nash could fit in perfectly with the veteran team. Realistically, the Lakers only have one or two more chances to win. Nash's outside shooting and play making could make that happen.
1. Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks need Steve Nash, and nobody is talking about it. The Hawks have locked in Joe Johnson at numbers that are so absurd, we will certainly sink the franchise in 4 years. I am so certain of this, I anticipate buying season tickets at a deeply discounted price. With Nash the Hawks have a chance to win it all now, which would be a huge upgrade over their middling performance. Also, Nash's presence in the locker room could make a huge difference for an often apathetic team. The starting line-up of Nash, Johnson, Tayshaun Prince (another story for another post), Josh Smith, and Al Horford. That is the real deal.
This might actually be a better fit than the next two teams, but Zone Press wants no part of it. Nash and Amare reunited is appealling. The addition of Carmelo makes for a high scoring team. D'Antoni has obviously worked with Nash before, but who will stop anyone. Amare is a better defender than people give him credit for, but between Nash, Carmelo, and Amare it seems like the basket will be pretty open.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves
This rumor has had the most legs, but honestly I hope it doesn't happen for Nash's sake. Really, what would the Timberwolves do with Nash. He has to hold together a team with no center and 5 talented swing players with shared playing time. Granted, the outlet passes from Kevin Love will be awesome, and it would be great to give Rubio a mentor, but let's not waste the last years of Nash.
3. Orlando Magic
The Magic are bogged down with Gilbert Arenas contract. Howard may be on the way out, but a year with Nash could really change things in Orlando. With Nash at the point, the pick and rolls with Howard could be sensational. I am imagining the dunks that will take place. Not only that, but Nash will continue to add to the outside shooting that Stan Van Gundy craves.
2. Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers are getting a little older and a little jaded. The effort last year was shaky and so was the performance. The point guard play between Derek Fisher and Steve Blake was awful. With the triangle offense on the way out, Nash could fit in perfectly with the veteran team. Realistically, the Lakers only have one or two more chances to win. Nash's outside shooting and play making could make that happen.
1. Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks need Steve Nash, and nobody is talking about it. The Hawks have locked in Joe Johnson at numbers that are so absurd, we will certainly sink the franchise in 4 years. I am so certain of this, I anticipate buying season tickets at a deeply discounted price. With Nash the Hawks have a chance to win it all now, which would be a huge upgrade over their middling performance. Also, Nash's presence in the locker room could make a huge difference for an often apathetic team. The starting line-up of Nash, Johnson, Tayshaun Prince (another story for another post), Josh Smith, and Al Horford. That is the real deal.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Been Away, but I'm Baaaack
NBA Zone Press has been on a bit of a hiatus. Don't worry though, we haven't missed any games, and at this point it doesn't look like we will for a while. Isn't that just predictable, NBA Zone Press jumps off the Presses and takes the web by storm only to have its main subject of focus removed from existence. This only leads me to believe that 1. NBA Zone Press will come back with the NBA season better than Eddy Curry, 2. Lebron James will still be hated upon return, 3. We will discuss hypothetical trade options until every combination of trades has been exhausted.
I will promise you one thing. NBA Zone Press will not write on the goings on of ball in the Land Far Away. Deron Williams may be leading the charge for LFA "Land Far Away" Zone Press, but it will not happen.
So instead, incredibly late, NBA Zone Press will talk draft night! Hindsight is 20/20, unless nobody has played a game, then we still have no idea!
NBA baby, we're going to talk about it!
I will promise you one thing. NBA Zone Press will not write on the goings on of ball in the Land Far Away. Deron Williams may be leading the charge for LFA "Land Far Away" Zone Press, but it will not happen.
So instead, incredibly late, NBA Zone Press will talk draft night! Hindsight is 20/20, unless nobody has played a game, then we still have no idea!
NBA baby, we're going to talk about it!
Monday, June 20, 2011
Cleveland to Take Irving
According to sources at ESPN, the Cleveland Cavaliers will use the number one overall pick on a middling PG with a ceiling of Mo Peterson. Which is good news for Cleveland, who will be in line to win the lottery again in 4-6 years. If I am a Cleveland fan, I cross my fingers that I can get Derrick Williams in this draft because Kyrie Irving and Kawhi Leonard are not the keys to a championship.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
2011 NBA Mock Draft
The 2011 NBA Draft takes place on June 23, 2011. Assuming nothing is holding back that date, we proceed forward with a mock draft. These are picks based on projections, not based on the opinions of NBA Zone Press which desperately wants Minnesota to trade picks with Cleveland.
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| *Denotes pick received in trade |
Monday, June 13, 2011
Dallas Mavericks Win 2011 NBA Finals
To be perfectly honest, the Zone Press had Dallas losing every series of the playoffs. The roster didn't look much better than any other year. The addition of Tyson Chandler seemed important, but in the wake of James and Bosh, a Derrick Rose breakout, the Westbrook and Durant combo, and basically every other team, the Mavericks never seemed like the sure thing.
The first NBA Finals championship in Dallas Mavericks history had a number of "sure" things. Mark Cuban would run his mouth. Dirk would do something "soft." The rag tag bench and supporting cast would fall flat. Rick Carlisle would begin filming on a new movie about penguins. But all of those sure things changed this season. Twelve consecutive 50+ win seasons, and here we are with a championship. This can only lead to one conclusion. The Dallas Mavericks are the Atlanta Braves of Basketball. Years and years of consistent winning in order to pull out one title.
Still, what an incredible run to see this team come out as the champions with all the trials and tribulations of the offseason. This team is made up of some of the strangest pieces. The second leading scorer comes off the bench? JJ Barea looks like the 3rd pick at a YMCA pick up game. Shawn Marion.... everything about Shawn Marion. Most of all I like that Cuban's collection of overpriced centers finally paid off.
Congratulations Dallas, and you too Cleveland.
The first NBA Finals championship in Dallas Mavericks history had a number of "sure" things. Mark Cuban would run his mouth. Dirk would do something "soft." The rag tag bench and supporting cast would fall flat. Rick Carlisle would begin filming on a new movie about penguins. But all of those sure things changed this season. Twelve consecutive 50+ win seasons, and here we are with a championship. This can only lead to one conclusion. The Dallas Mavericks are the Atlanta Braves of Basketball. Years and years of consistent winning in order to pull out one title.
Still, what an incredible run to see this team come out as the champions with all the trials and tribulations of the offseason. This team is made up of some of the strangest pieces. The second leading scorer comes off the bench? JJ Barea looks like the 3rd pick at a YMCA pick up game. Shawn Marion.... everything about Shawn Marion. Most of all I like that Cuban's collection of overpriced centers finally paid off.
Congratulations Dallas, and you too Cleveland.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
"This is our Game 7."
Dirk Nowitzki knows. This is the Dallas Mavericks' Game 7. With the NBA Finals adopting the 2-3-2 style for its playoff games, the Mavericks need to win Game 5 because there is little hope that they can produce two straight wins in Miami if they were to lose.
**RANT ON: The media (yes, I am excluding myself from the group) often sites the winning percentages of teams that win Game 2 or Game 3 or Game 4 and so on. It is a trend that I strongly wish would stop out of its shear stupidity. Oh! The team that wins Game 5 in a split series goes on to win the series 83% of the time! If the teams were exactly even, the odds of team winning on accident would be 75%. If it were 50|50 for Game 6 and 50|50 for Game 7, then that is about expected. END RANT**
The Mavericks absolutely must win this game. I can't see a way where the Mavericks can figure out a way to score on Miami's home court, where, for some reason because Miami fans are the worst, the Heat seem to absolutely dominate.
The biggest question over Game 5 is Lebron. Or LeBlasfemy, as my quiet co-author would note. LeBrong dropped an awesome 8 points in Game 4. Even DeShawn Stevenson had something to say.
**RANT ON: DeShawn Stevenson didn't say anything that bad. He answered Jim Rome's question. What do you think happened with Lebron? I mean, he didn't say anything we all didn't see. I thought Lebron had been hypnotized. He was wondering around. If I would have seen him on the court, I would have found a police officer to help him find his parents. DeShawn, I warned you before the series started... But you are still OK with Zone Press. **RANT OFF
**RANT BACK ON: Lebron, what was that? Stop it. Let me see 25 of teams final 25 points again...**RANT BACK OFF
One writer made an interesting note as we approach game time. Every time the Heat win, they are winning it all. Every time the Mavericks win, "its a series." Well, if the Mavericks can win tonight, I can't wait for the next Game 7 even if Dirk thinks Game 7 is tonight.
**RANT ON: The media (yes, I am excluding myself from the group) often sites the winning percentages of teams that win Game 2 or Game 3 or Game 4 and so on. It is a trend that I strongly wish would stop out of its shear stupidity. Oh! The team that wins Game 5 in a split series goes on to win the series 83% of the time! If the teams were exactly even, the odds of team winning on accident would be 75%. If it were 50|50 for Game 6 and 50|50 for Game 7, then that is about expected. END RANT**
The Mavericks absolutely must win this game. I can't see a way where the Mavericks can figure out a way to score on Miami's home court, where, for some reason because Miami fans are the worst, the Heat seem to absolutely dominate.
The biggest question over Game 5 is Lebron. Or LeBlasfemy, as my quiet co-author would note. LeBrong dropped an awesome 8 points in Game 4. Even DeShawn Stevenson had something to say.
**RANT ON: DeShawn Stevenson didn't say anything that bad. He answered Jim Rome's question. What do you think happened with Lebron? I mean, he didn't say anything we all didn't see. I thought Lebron had been hypnotized. He was wondering around. If I would have seen him on the court, I would have found a police officer to help him find his parents. DeShawn, I warned you before the series started... But you are still OK with Zone Press. **RANT OFF
**RANT BACK ON: Lebron, what was that? Stop it. Let me see 25 of teams final 25 points again...**RANT BACK OFF
One writer made an interesting note as we approach game time. Every time the Heat win, they are winning it all. Every time the Mavericks win, "its a series." Well, if the Mavericks can win tonight, I can't wait for the next Game 7 even if Dirk thinks Game 7 is tonight.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Tyson Chandler Rebounds By Himself
Tyson Chandler has received some unjust criticism for his low rebounding numbers over the last few weeks. After watching the first quarter of Game 3 of the NBA Finals, I have to say I completely understand his inability to get a rebound. With Dirk playing the 4, Dallas has nobody else crashing the boards. Jason Kidd/JJ Barea are no Rajon Rondo on the boards. Shawn Marion and Jason Terry take a YMCA approach to rebounding... shrug and watch.
Tyson, I want to exonerate you from the criticism. With triple box outs and Joel Anthony following you everywhere, do your best to keep the ball alive and maybe it will fall into the hands of one of your spectating teammates.
Tyson, I want to exonerate you from the criticism. With triple box outs and Joel Anthony following you everywhere, do your best to keep the ball alive and maybe it will fall into the hands of one of your spectating teammates.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Ricky Rubio Taking His Talents to Minneapolis
After a couple of years of dragging his feet in Spain, Ricky Rubio plans to make an enterance into the NBA next season. While there are still a number of hurdles in the way, including actually getting him out of his current contract, Rubio is primed to come to Minnesota.
When Rubio first declared for the NBA draft, he was a bit of a celebrity. After playing very well in the Olympics for Spain, Rubio had a reputation for dishing out crazy passes. It was the dream to see every elite dunker matched up with Rubio. Naturally, David Kahn completely fumbled by drafting both Rubio and Jonny Flynn back to back. (Also: don't forget the draft of Ty Lawson even later in that first round). Unsurprisingly, Rubio decided to stay put for awhile.
Now the attitude is a little different. Rubio didn't grow up in the game as much as some NBA scouts hoped. Now he comes over with little fan fare. Rubio does finally give Minnesota what it needs. And, scouts are saying that his game is better suited for the NBA.
With Rubio coming, this puts an interesting twist on the NBA draft. If the Cavaliers pick Derrick Williams with the number one pick (they should), then I think the Timberwolves should trade the pick. If Minnesota can trade the pick to the Cavaliers at the 4 spot, then Cleveland can get both Williams and Irving. Minnesota can then hope to grab Enes Kantor at the Center position. With Rubio, Kantor, Love, Beasley, Johnson, and Randolph, all of sudden Minnesota could be looking up.
When Rubio first declared for the NBA draft, he was a bit of a celebrity. After playing very well in the Olympics for Spain, Rubio had a reputation for dishing out crazy passes. It was the dream to see every elite dunker matched up with Rubio. Naturally, David Kahn completely fumbled by drafting both Rubio and Jonny Flynn back to back. (Also: don't forget the draft of Ty Lawson even later in that first round). Unsurprisingly, Rubio decided to stay put for awhile.
Now the attitude is a little different. Rubio didn't grow up in the game as much as some NBA scouts hoped. Now he comes over with little fan fare. Rubio does finally give Minnesota what it needs. And, scouts are saying that his game is better suited for the NBA.
With Rubio coming, this puts an interesting twist on the NBA draft. If the Cavaliers pick Derrick Williams with the number one pick (they should), then I think the Timberwolves should trade the pick. If Minnesota can trade the pick to the Cavaliers at the 4 spot, then Cleveland can get both Williams and Irving. Minnesota can then hope to grab Enes Kantor at the Center position. With Rubio, Kantor, Love, Beasley, Johnson, and Randolph, all of sudden Minnesota could be looking up.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Finals Game 1: 4th Quarter 1:08 ICING
That is the icing on the cake. Wade with a great pass up the court on a fast break for a Bosh dunk. All in all it was a pretty bad night by Bosh, but good performances from James and Wade cover it up. James just throws down a huge dunk to finish it. We will see how it goes moving forward. There are a lot of similarities with this and the Bulls series. Its just the first home game... we will keep doing our best to live blog the rest. Good night and Godspeed.
Finals Game 1: 4th Quarter 2:40
OOOOHHHHH BABY!! Lebron with a monster dunk with an and 1. James is starting to take over the game late. James drove through lane and dunked hard. After knocking down the extra, the Heat have taken a 10 point lead. From here on out I will be referring to Dallas Mavericks as the Dirk Mavericks. He is the only one really offering anything at the end of the game.
Finals Game 1: 4th Quarter 4:30
Miami is not getting what I would expect out of James right now. James needs to stop passing the ball to Bosh so much. There have been a number of times he has given the ball up from 6 feet away only to watch Bosh...botch the play. I must admit... I miss the James from the Cleveland days sometimes. When Lebron came down the court, everyone knew what was going to happen, and the best players in the world couldn't stop it.
Finals Game 1: 4th Quarter 7:30
The Mavericks have to figure out a way to get the ball to Dirk. Haslem is very aggressive, but he is way smaller than Dirk. But right now the Mavericks can't get a call to save their lives. The reffing is shaky at best.
Finals Game 1: 4th Quarter 11:30
Lebron just runs the Heat check from three. Quickly realizes that he is not actually Ray Allen. Then, Bosh gets in the way of what could have been an epic alley-oop. That is a nice illustration of the season. Bosh getting in the way of Lebron.
2011 NBA Finals
The NBA season started in June 2010. No games were played, no timeouts were taken, no last second threes. What did happen was free agency went wild. Players and stars realigned to shape the new NBA. New villians emerged in black after Lebron made "The Decision." Dan Gilbert guaranteed that the Cavaliers would win a championship before the King. Chris Bosh left Canada for southern Florida. Amare changed New York, Melo followed. The Suns missed Amare. The Nuggets didn't miss Melo. The Bulls added Boozer. D. Rose took the next step, but the parade of below average shooting guards left a lot to be desired. Through all of this, the Mavericks were criticized for not adding anyone of substance in the offseason.
Fast forward to a year later, the Mavericks and the Heat are going to square off in the 2011 NBA Finals, five years after their last meeting. And with all the drama surrounding the Heat's offseason roster changes, the free agent that has made all the difference is Tyson Chandler. Chandler played last season for the Bobcats, and was essentially let go for a high five and some old Halloween candy. Now, Chandler looks to be the piece needed to push a team with 12 consecutive seasons over 50 wins to its first title. Chandler and DeSean Stevenson didn't go to Dallas with a ticker tape parade. Hell, ESPN barely mentioned it. It was lucky to scrape the ticker. Now with a legitimate defensive force in the middle, Dirk is free to be the defensive liability he plays so well.
The Heat have been through more drama in a single season than any team in recent memory. For a top contender, The Heat roster has undergone dramatic changes. Compare the 2006 roster to he 2011 roster:
Fast forward to a year later, the Mavericks and the Heat are going to square off in the 2011 NBA Finals, five years after their last meeting. And with all the drama surrounding the Heat's offseason roster changes, the free agent that has made all the difference is Tyson Chandler. Chandler played last season for the Bobcats, and was essentially let go for a high five and some old Halloween candy. Now, Chandler looks to be the piece needed to push a team with 12 consecutive seasons over 50 wins to its first title. Chandler and DeSean Stevenson didn't go to Dallas with a ticker tape parade. Hell, ESPN barely mentioned it. It was lucky to scrape the ticker. Now with a legitimate defensive force in the middle, Dirk is free to be the defensive liability he plays so well.
The Heat have been through more drama in a single season than any team in recent memory. For a top contender, The Heat roster has undergone dramatic changes. Compare the 2006 roster to he 2011 roster:
| 2006 2011 | ||||||||
| | ||||||||
| Now the team focuses around a new star in Lebron James. After last week, Scottie Pippen described Lebron as potentially better than Jordan. He backed off his words, but it gives the idea of what he thinks. Looking at the series, it looks like it could be his show. I think Nowitzki can put together some stellar performances, but at the end of the day there is nobody who will be able to stop Lebron. | ||||||||
Saturday, May 28, 2011
McHale to Coach the Rockets
I'm sure Thornton will have a ton of thoughts about this, but a quick news update: the Rockets have apparently agreed to make Kevin McHale their next head coach.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
What Happened to the Thunder?
With 5 minutes left in the 4th Quarter, Kevin Durant knocked down a three to take the lead by 15. Ten minutes later Oklahoma City is going back to Dallas without a home win for the series. Now Dallas has a 3-1 lead going back to home for game 5.
Dirk Nowitzki did more to add to an interesting legacy. With no championships under his belt, Dirk did everything to keep the Mavericks alive for the post season. This Mavericks team don't have much time left. Dirk is approaching 33 years old and change. How much longer can this team last with pieces like Jason Kidd, Brendon Haywood, Shawn Marion, and Peja Stojakovic?
After tonight's win, it looks like Dallas will have another chance at the Finals that eluded them in 2006. This year could be the same pair of teams from the 2006 Finals, but the rosters will look drastically different. The 2006 Miami Heat team was led by Dwayne Wade and Shaquille O'Neil. Now, the team is led by Dwayne Wade and Lebron James. The Mavericks are still led by Dirk Nowitzki, but the defense has been anchored by Tyson Chandler. Who would have thought that Tyson Chandler would be the biggest off-season pick-up?
With Dallas taking control, it looks like this young Thunder team might still be another year out. The Thunder need a more substantial second line-up. If they can create a second team line-up like the 2010 Suns, then they could have a chance for future team success.
Dirk Nowitzki did more to add to an interesting legacy. With no championships under his belt, Dirk did everything to keep the Mavericks alive for the post season. This Mavericks team don't have much time left. Dirk is approaching 33 years old and change. How much longer can this team last with pieces like Jason Kidd, Brendon Haywood, Shawn Marion, and Peja Stojakovic?
After tonight's win, it looks like Dallas will have another chance at the Finals that eluded them in 2006. This year could be the same pair of teams from the 2006 Finals, but the rosters will look drastically different. The 2006 Miami Heat team was led by Dwayne Wade and Shaquille O'Neil. Now, the team is led by Dwayne Wade and Lebron James. The Mavericks are still led by Dirk Nowitzki, but the defense has been anchored by Tyson Chandler. Who would have thought that Tyson Chandler would be the biggest off-season pick-up?
With Dallas taking control, it looks like this young Thunder team might still be another year out. The Thunder need a more substantial second line-up. If they can create a second team line-up like the 2010 Suns, then they could have a chance for future team success.
Friday, May 20, 2011
The Magnificent Mind of Scott Brooks
With the game on the line in the fourth quarter of a crucial Game 2, Western Conference Finals, where could you find 2nd Team All-NBA point guard...on the bench. Russell Westbrook sat the whole fourth quarter, "hoping to hear my name called." It wasn't. Scott Brooks played the hot hand, and Eric Maynor closed out the fourth for Oklahoma City.
Eric Maynor is best known for his performance in the Playoffs. Only they were the NCAA playoffs, when he led VCU to a first round upset of Duke. Maynor came to the NBA via the Utah Jazz as the 20th pick in the first round. After only 26 games with Utah, Sam Presti, OKC GM, made the trade to bring him to Oklahoma City. According to Presti, Maynor was ranked high on the team's board during the draft, so they traded for him in what was ultimately a salary dump by the Jazz.
A year later, Maynor has played very well as the back-up for Westbrook. He is the perfect example of how Sam Presti and Scott Brooks have constructed this team. Any time there is young talent available that fits with the plan, then Oklahoma City jumps on the opportunity.
In this particular case, that means Westbrook sits the whole 4th quarter if the team is playing well around Maynor. Westbrook wasn't sat for his poor shooting or decision making that has dogged him to some extent through these playoffs. Westbrook was 7-15 shooting with 4 turnovers. It was not a move that you will always see in the NBA. With egos overriding a lot of decisions, a player like Westbrook doesn't take to the bench very well. But to his credit, he said watching from the bench was tough, but its easier when you are "winning." Duh.
Maynor finished the game with a +18, which Westbrook finished with a plus/minus of -10. Ultimately, Westbrook leaves the game rested, which is definitely a good thing because I think the magnificent mind of Scott Brooks will probably play it different next time.
Eric Maynor is best known for his performance in the Playoffs. Only they were the NCAA playoffs, when he led VCU to a first round upset of Duke. Maynor came to the NBA via the Utah Jazz as the 20th pick in the first round. After only 26 games with Utah, Sam Presti, OKC GM, made the trade to bring him to Oklahoma City. According to Presti, Maynor was ranked high on the team's board during the draft, so they traded for him in what was ultimately a salary dump by the Jazz.
A year later, Maynor has played very well as the back-up for Westbrook. He is the perfect example of how Sam Presti and Scott Brooks have constructed this team. Any time there is young talent available that fits with the plan, then Oklahoma City jumps on the opportunity.
In this particular case, that means Westbrook sits the whole 4th quarter if the team is playing well around Maynor. Westbrook wasn't sat for his poor shooting or decision making that has dogged him to some extent through these playoffs. Westbrook was 7-15 shooting with 4 turnovers. It was not a move that you will always see in the NBA. With egos overriding a lot of decisions, a player like Westbrook doesn't take to the bench very well. But to his credit, he said watching from the bench was tough, but its easier when you are "winning." Duh.
Maynor finished the game with a +18, which Westbrook finished with a plus/minus of -10. Ultimately, Westbrook leaves the game rested, which is definitely a good thing because I think the magnificent mind of Scott Brooks will probably play it different next time.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Gay Players in the NBA
“
“I've been a big proponent of gay marriage for a long time, because as a black person, I can't be in for any form of discrimination at all. ”--Charles Barkley
It bothers me when I hear these reporters and jocks get on TV and say: 'Oh, no guy can come out in a team sport. These guys would go crazy.' First of all, quit telling me what I think. I'd rather have a gay guy who can play than a straight guy who can't play.
”-- Charles BarkleyNBA Zone Press loves Charles Barkley. The way Charles stands up and says what is real. For a long time Charles Barkley said that he was going to run for the Governor of Alabama. It always seemed like a joke. He was loud and he was certainly "not a role model." Charles, you just received the NBA Zone Press endorsement. Charles, NBA Zone Press appreciates everything you do. Standing up for people who might not feel comfortable to come out yet, is very brave. Say what you will about Barkley, but his comments are real and never hypocritical.“I've been a big proponent of gay marriage for a long time, because as a black person, I can't be in for any form of discrimination at all. ”--Charles Barkley
Washington Wizards Get New Threads....Finally
The look is Red, White, and Blue, just like every DC team should be. It is a huge upgrade from whatever crazy combination of turquoise, gold, black, white that they are wearing now.
Cavaliers Get the 1st and 4th Pick
This is a dream come true for the Cavaliers. The pick that was traded to the Cavaliers in the Clippers Baron Davis for Mo Williams trade. This leaves the Cavaliers with an interesting decision. Who goes number one? This is obviously a time to rebuild. Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert doesn't take on Baron Davis' contract if he didn't want another pick, and it worked out. ESPN's Jay Bilas is calling for Kyrie Irving. I think it might be short sided.
The Cavaliers should also take into consideration what to get with the number 4 pick. If the Cavaliers take Kyrie Irving, the draft can really fall off at the number 4 spot pretty quickly. However, if the Cavaliers take Derrick Williams at the Small Forward out of Arizona, then options stay very open. With both Kemba Walker and 18 year old Brandon Knight at the 4 and 5 spots in the draft, the Cavaliers could leave with a couple of potential starters. I think the pair of Kemba Walker and Derrick Williams will work out better than the pair of Kyrie Irving and Kawhi Leonard.
Karma shines on Cleveland.
The Cavaliers should also take into consideration what to get with the number 4 pick. If the Cavaliers take Kyrie Irving, the draft can really fall off at the number 4 spot pretty quickly. However, if the Cavaliers take Derrick Williams at the Small Forward out of Arizona, then options stay very open. With both Kemba Walker and 18 year old Brandon Knight at the 4 and 5 spots in the draft, the Cavaliers could leave with a couple of potential starters. I think the pair of Kemba Walker and Derrick Williams will work out better than the pair of Kyrie Irving and Kawhi Leonard.
Karma shines on Cleveland.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Taj Gibson Gives Bulls the Spark
While most of the points for the Bulls whipping of the Heat in the 103-82 Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals came from a predictable source. It was the young Taj Gibson who set the pace for the Bulls. An early two handed slam that resulted in the most devastating posterization of local boy Dwayne Wade the Bulls made one thing clear. "We are glad that you [Heat] got your team together to beat the Celtics because that is as far as you are going." Gibson seemed to be the cornerstone of all the big plays for the Bulls. A nice assist to another young Bull, Omer Asik, led to an and-1 dunk to push the lead. Then it was the nail in the coffin, the look at me, we are here to stay, exclamation point, boo-ya-ka-sha of a dunk by Gibson with a little over 30 seconds left in the game.
The Bulls were out to make a statement, and they did. From the beginning of the season, the Bulls have bought into Coach of Year Tom Thibodeau's defensive strategy. Last night, the Bulls held Lebron James to only 15 points. Nobody for the Heat even scored 20 points for the game.
Offensively, this is a tough match up for the Heat. The Heat have solid defenders at every position on the court with the exception of Boozer at the 4. But, Chicago can slide Noah over onto Bosh, and Boozer can cover the never ending line of centers that the Heat use through the course of the game. Then, when the second team rotates in, the Bulls protect the basket with the NBA's best bench defenders, Gibson and Asik. Gibson showed that last night with a key block of James on a drive to the basket.
Looking forward in the series, the Heat are going to have to find a way to get in transition. Even if they do, they better watch out because you never know when Taj Gibson will be looking to make a statement.
The Bulls were out to make a statement, and they did. From the beginning of the season, the Bulls have bought into Coach of Year Tom Thibodeau's defensive strategy. Last night, the Bulls held Lebron James to only 15 points. Nobody for the Heat even scored 20 points for the game.
Offensively, this is a tough match up for the Heat. The Heat have solid defenders at every position on the court with the exception of Boozer at the 4. But, Chicago can slide Noah over onto Bosh, and Boozer can cover the never ending line of centers that the Heat use through the course of the game. Then, when the second team rotates in, the Bulls protect the basket with the NBA's best bench defenders, Gibson and Asik. Gibson showed that last night with a key block of James on a drive to the basket.
Looking forward in the series, the Heat are going to have to find a way to get in transition. Even if they do, they better watch out because you never know when Taj Gibson will be looking to make a statement.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Miami Wins Heated Series
The Miami Heat brought their Big Three to the series, and Boston brought theirs. At the end of the day, it was the benches that pushed the Heat over the edge.
Lebron James and Dwayne Wade were both incredible during the series. D-Wade especially showed that he had had enough about his struggles against Boston during the regular season. But it was the bench that stepped up when it needed to. Joel Anthony provided solid defensive effort and timely rebounding. James Jones big three point shooting helped seal game 1 with a 5 for 7 performance.
In the end, dmack picked a team versus the talent. He was wrong, but only sort of. The Heat proved to be the better team when they finished the series in 5.
Lebron James and Dwayne Wade were both incredible during the series. D-Wade especially showed that he had had enough about his struggles against Boston during the regular season. But it was the bench that stepped up when it needed to. Joel Anthony provided solid defensive effort and timely rebounding. James Jones big three point shooting helped seal game 1 with a 5 for 7 performance.
In the end, dmack picked a team versus the talent. He was wrong, but only sort of. The Heat proved to be the better team when they finished the series in 5.
Bulls Finish Hawks Season
The Chicago Bulls were able to finish off the Atlanta Hawks with a six game series just like dmack ordered it up. Derrick Rose continued to show why he was named the league's MVP. Rose finished the series with 29.8 ppg and 9.8 apg. The only shortcoming in Rose's game was a 29.4% 3PT shooting percentage.
The Hawks did show something for the series. The team is completely different when Josh Smith is driving to the basket. The games when J-Smooth got to the basket, the Hawks look like a different team. It will be interesting going forward for ATL. They obviously can't afford to pay this whole roster with Josh Smith probably leaving this offseason. The Hawks front office has to realize that this roster just isn't going to cut it. Unfortunately, they are tied into long term contracts that will suffocate their cap room for years to come. If I am Atlanta, I trade everyone I can but Jeff Teague and Al Horford and start again.
As for this series, dmack well called.
The Hawks did show something for the series. The team is completely different when Josh Smith is driving to the basket. The games when J-Smooth got to the basket, the Hawks look like a different team. It will be interesting going forward for ATL. They obviously can't afford to pay this whole roster with Josh Smith probably leaving this offseason. The Hawks front office has to realize that this roster just isn't going to cut it. Unfortunately, they are tied into long term contracts that will suffocate their cap room for years to come. If I am Atlanta, I trade everyone I can but Jeff Teague and Al Horford and start again.
As for this series, dmack well called.
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