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.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Changing of the Guard?
The whimpering demise of the Spurs, Lakers, and Celtics during this year's Playoffs, the burgeoning growth of the young gun Thunder and Bulls, and the unexpected success of the underdog Grizzlies and Hawks has got me thinking a lot about the NBA's so-called "changing of the guard," and the transience of success in the league.
A conversation with some friends a few days ago highlighted just how rapid this change can be. While watching Game 4 of Celtics-Heat, we started arguing about when LeBoob's Cavs made their only Finals trip, and were utterly dismantled by the Spurs. I remembered that the Cavs issued a surprising beat-down on the Number-1 seeded Pistons during the Eastern Conference Finals, so I was convinced it couldn't be later than 2004. After all, the Pistons have been playing like gutter trash for years, right?
Wrong. A quick interwebs search validated my friend Ben's seemingly-absurd claim that it was only four years ago--in 2007--that the Pistons and Cavs met in a riveting Eastern Conference Finals clash. I dug a little deeper, and uncovered some utterly outrageous information about just how much the league has changed in four years. I now present to you (drum roll please) the 2007 Eastern Conference Playoffs:
1. Detroit Pistons
2. Cleveland Cavaliers
3. Toronto Raptors
4. Miami Heat
5. Chicago Bulls
6. New Jersey Nets
7. Washington Wizards
8. Orlando Magic
Yes, that's right, 5 out of the 8 2007 East Playoff teams combined to finish an impressive 118-292 this season; they comprise 5 out of the 7 worst records in 2011.
Let's dig a little deeper, though, and check out our 4-5 first round matchup; maybe it's a preview of this year's conference finals?
The number 4 Miami Heat, fresh off their 2006 Championship and led by DWade and the Big Aristotle himself were swept--swept!--by the number 5 Chicago Bulls, paced by Ben Gordon, Chris Duhon, and Kirk Heinrich. Ben Gordon dropped in a career high 40 points in Game 2, and the Bulls' rookie future--Tyrus Thomas and Thabo Sefalosha (duh)--provided athletic plays throughout the series.
And now? Most of these names are forgotten. The Heat enjoyed marginal success since 2007, and needed to put together an evil empire to become contenders. The Bulls blew up rebuild pt. 1 and won the Derrick Rose lottery sweepstakes to begin rebuild pt. 2.
What does this teach us? I'm not sure, except that it gives me hope as a Wizards fan, and should strike fear into the hearts of fans of the Hawks--with that albatross Joe Johnson contract--and Celtics--with Garnett, Pierce, and Allen's bodies deteriorating a little more every game.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
No "I" in TEAM
From Jay-Z's fantastic Life + Times online magazine, a great little reflection on Rondo's Game 3 injury, camaraderie, and the intangibles that make for an NBA champion:
"Kevin Garnett remarked, 'You see one of your brothers go down . . . It’s never a good feeling. [It's] someone’s father. It’s someone’s brother, someone’s son is on the floor hurt.'"
The 20,000 Person Rosters
The Atlanta Hawks have the honor of being one of two teams I was lucky enough to see in person this year (the other being the New York Knicks). The team was long, athletic and explosive. Josh "JSmooth" Smith unleased an alley oop dunk that I thought was going to bring the house down. Then, I was introduced to the Atlanta fans. The place cheered for all of 10 seconds, and the intensity didn't even carry over to the defensive end of the floor. The MC played the "DEFENSE" chant, and about half of the arena obliged.
Looking through these playoffs, never before has it been so apparent that the fans are defining, potentially vice versa, the team attitude.
Boston fans are the same die hard self. With the cold days of Boston just now coming to an end, and the Red Sox off to a slow start, the Boston fans seem hungry for another title. Watching the Lakers success has been too much to handle. At the same time, it isn't the same fan base we saw in 2008. This is best illustrated by dislocated elbow of Rondo. In 2008, Paul Pierce was rolled, in a wheelchair, off the court. The way it was treated, everybody thought for sure the series was over, but maybe even Pierce's career. Only minutes later, Pierce emerges from the tunnel. The place went nuts, and you could tell before the TV cameras even caught on. It gave me goosebumps. Flashforward to 2011, Game 3 vs. the Heat. Rondo is thrown to the ground by Dwayne Wade. Rondo has a dislocated elbow, and comes out and drops dimes, makes steals, and takes it to the hoop on Lebron. The fans appreciated the effort, no question, but it wasn't quite the same as 2008.
Oklahoma City fans are young and talented, just like their team. The place hits decibel levels that would be like putting your head 6 inches away from a lawn mower. The whole process is new to them, so they come in with gusto to say, "We belong. We may be small, but you will notice us." Thank god that franchise has Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, because I think that fan base could have very easily looked like Charlotte.
My favorite from the 2011 playoffs are the Memphis Grizzlies. Memphis is the most underrated "major city that is actually having huge problems, and could be a ghost town in 20 years." The city is strife with racial tension and high crime rates. Right now, the Grizzlies are all that matter for the city. Zach Randolph said it best, "I love this city, man, they love me back, you know what I'm saying? So it's good -- it's a blue-collar town and I'm a blue-collar player, I'm a hard worker and this is a hard-workin' town, ain't nothin' been given easy to me, ain't nothin' easy been given to this town, so it's a fit!"
The Lakers fans seemed as bored with the playoffs this year as the players did. Lakers fans are a funny breed. Hollywood celebrities, LA money men, and millions of people who can't afford the tickets. But when the going gets tough or the drama seeps from the building, Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum go all Lindsey Lohan on the courts. "Lakers! Mavericks! NBA Playoffs on TMZ!"
Lastly, the Heat. The Heat have been an emotional mess for the entire season. The have crying in the locker room, over celebrating big wins, over valuing big losses. Most of this is driven by the media, but the fan base reacts the same way. After last season's playoffs for LeBron and the summers Lebacle, everyone outside of Miami was telling Lebron to "Man Up!" Two months later the Miami Heat have to tell the fans to "Fan up!" Well, I guess we'll see.
Looking through these playoffs, never before has it been so apparent that the fans are defining, potentially vice versa, the team attitude.
Boston fans are the same die hard self. With the cold days of Boston just now coming to an end, and the Red Sox off to a slow start, the Boston fans seem hungry for another title. Watching the Lakers success has been too much to handle. At the same time, it isn't the same fan base we saw in 2008. This is best illustrated by dislocated elbow of Rondo. In 2008, Paul Pierce was rolled, in a wheelchair, off the court. The way it was treated, everybody thought for sure the series was over, but maybe even Pierce's career. Only minutes later, Pierce emerges from the tunnel. The place went nuts, and you could tell before the TV cameras even caught on. It gave me goosebumps. Flashforward to 2011, Game 3 vs. the Heat. Rondo is thrown to the ground by Dwayne Wade. Rondo has a dislocated elbow, and comes out and drops dimes, makes steals, and takes it to the hoop on Lebron. The fans appreciated the effort, no question, but it wasn't quite the same as 2008.
Oklahoma City fans are young and talented, just like their team. The place hits decibel levels that would be like putting your head 6 inches away from a lawn mower. The whole process is new to them, so they come in with gusto to say, "We belong. We may be small, but you will notice us." Thank god that franchise has Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, because I think that fan base could have very easily looked like Charlotte.
My favorite from the 2011 playoffs are the Memphis Grizzlies. Memphis is the most underrated "major city that is actually having huge problems, and could be a ghost town in 20 years." The city is strife with racial tension and high crime rates. Right now, the Grizzlies are all that matter for the city. Zach Randolph said it best, "I love this city, man, they love me back, you know what I'm saying? So it's good -- it's a blue-collar town and I'm a blue-collar player, I'm a hard worker and this is a hard-workin' town, ain't nothin' been given easy to me, ain't nothin' easy been given to this town, so it's a fit!"
The Lakers fans seemed as bored with the playoffs this year as the players did. Lakers fans are a funny breed. Hollywood celebrities, LA money men, and millions of people who can't afford the tickets. But when the going gets tough or the drama seeps from the building, Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum go all Lindsey Lohan on the courts. "Lakers! Mavericks! NBA Playoffs on TMZ!"
Lastly, the Heat. The Heat have been an emotional mess for the entire season. The have crying in the locker room, over celebrating big wins, over valuing big losses. Most of this is driven by the media, but the fan base reacts the same way. After last season's playoffs for LeBron and the summers Lebacle, everyone outside of Miami was telling Lebron to "Man Up!" Two months later the Miami Heat have to tell the fans to "Fan up!" Well, I guess we'll see.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Lakers...End of an Era?
The Los Angeles Lakers opened the second round of the Western Conference playoffs against a new opponent, the Dallas Mavericks. With home court advantage and a history of the Mavericks falling apart in the playoffs, it seemed already predetermined that this series would be quick. NBA Zone Press had the series going 5 games. Now after two road wins for Dallas, the series could go 5 games... to Dallas.
If the Lakers aren't able to dig their way out of the hole they find themselves in, it is time to wonder if this is the last time we see the Laker's competing for awhile. There were already times this season when the Lakers looked lethargic and apathetic. Even as the playoffs started against New Orleans, the Lakers looked bored with the series.
Now, down 2 games, the Lakers need to find all of their fire to get through the series. Nobody knows this more than Kobe, who has been dishing out quotes about his team's current situation. When asked if the team was desperate now, Kobe replied, "Desperate, that's a strong word. I think when you play desperate you don't play your best basketball. What we need to do is relax, focus on what we're doing wrong and the mistakes that we're making. We have plenty to review and lock in on."
If the Lakers relax too much, this could be the end of their run a 3-peat. With a salary cap maxed out, and Kobe and Pau getting a year older, it might be the changing of the guard in the West.
If the Lakers aren't able to dig their way out of the hole they find themselves in, it is time to wonder if this is the last time we see the Laker's competing for awhile. There were already times this season when the Lakers looked lethargic and apathetic. Even as the playoffs started against New Orleans, the Lakers looked bored with the series.
Now, down 2 games, the Lakers need to find all of their fire to get through the series. Nobody knows this more than Kobe, who has been dishing out quotes about his team's current situation. When asked if the team was desperate now, Kobe replied, "Desperate, that's a strong word. I think when you play desperate you don't play your best basketball. What we need to do is relax, focus on what we're doing wrong and the mistakes that we're making. We have plenty to review and lock in on."
If the Lakers relax too much, this could be the end of their run a 3-peat. With a salary cap maxed out, and Kobe and Pau getting a year older, it might be the changing of the guard in the West.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Russell Westbrook Will Not Be Playing the Role of Stephon Marbury
Player A:
Rookie Season: 15.8 ppg, 7.8 apg, 41-35-72 Shooting
Second Season: 17.7 ppg, 8.6 apg, 42-31-73 Shooting
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Third Season: 21.3 ppg, 8.9 apg, 43-33-80 Shooting
Player B:
Rookie Season: 15.3 ppg, 5.3 apg, 40-27-81 Shooting
Second Season: 16.1 ppg, 8.0 apg, 41-22-78 Shooting
Third Season: 21.9 ppg, 8.2 apg, 44-33-84 Shooting
These are the stats for both Stephon Marbury and Russell Westbrook to begin their respective NBA careers. After Westbrook's recent 30 shots for 30 points performance against the Nuggets, questions of Westbrook's ability to lead a team grew even stronger. Does Westbrook know that he has the best scorer in the NBA on his team?
 |
| Starbury had his own logo. |
The wild shooting and lack of solid decision making draws a clear parallel to another young, athletic point guard from the mid-90's. Marbury came into the league with a lot of attention, that he was happy to have. He joined Kevin Garnett in a flurry of photo opps to try and promote this "up-and-coming" Timberwolves team. Eventually, Marbury's on the court problems paled in comparison to his off the court issues. It became an accepted fact that Marbury would never be a key player on any championship teams.
Now, Westbrook has similar questions being raised about his on the court decision-making. Will he start to think he is too big for Oklahoma City and the Kevin Durant shadow? I don't think that is how the Westbrook story will play out.
Marbury came into the league with it was players were trying to be hard. The more street a player was, the more that meant he was a killer on the court. Westbrook and Durant are the best two players on the be best high school team ever assembled. You can see it in every picture. Marbury was a mean-mugging, me-first point guard. Westbrook is a tough kid, that plays with a smile. The maturity will continue to grow, and so will the Oklahoma City Thunder.
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| Try finding a picture off the court that Westbrook isn't smiling. |
Monday, May 2, 2011
Sunday, May 1, 2011
2011 Playoff Preview: East Round 2
This should have been written a few days ago, but I've been out of town. I know Celtics-Heat round 1 has already happened, but I've diligently avoided checking scores at this point so as to still make an unbiased prediction.
1. Chicago Bulls vs. 5. Atlanta Hawks
Regular Season Matchup: Bulls 2-1
Overview: Which Atlanta Hawks team will show up for this series? The one that dismantled Orlando by playing a complete-team game? Or the one that limped into the playoffs with a lackadaisical, don't-give-a-crap attitude? Uncertainty about the ATL's approach to these games makes this series somewhat difficult to call.
What we do know: Chicago snuck past the Pacers with the weakest 4-1 series victory you'll ever see. Derrick Rose more or less lived up to his billing, but at times it seemed as if the Bulls had failed to send any other players besides the Thorned Assassin onto the court. If Deng, Boozer, and Noah can break out and return to regular-season form, look for the Bulls to make quick work of the series.
Key Matchup: Atlanta Hawks vs. apathy
The Hawks deserve to be derided for their profound regular-season underachievement, highlighted by Joe Johnson's disgracing of the title of highest-paid NBA player. Will they rest on their laurels after revenging last season's debacle against the Magic? Or will they play with pride and purpose?
Prediction: Bulls in 6
2. Miami Heat vs. 3. Boston Celtics
Regular Season Matchup: Celtics 3-1
Overview: This is a matchup everyone has been excited to see. The starting lineups contain a combined 7 all-stars, as well as this year's 3-point contest champion and 2 of the 5 best centers of the past 15 years. Boston embarrassed Miami at the beginning of the season before losing in awful fashion in April--a game that proved critical to giving the Heat home court advantage in this series. That loss was, perhaps, a low point for the Celtics after the Perkins-for-Green trade; the Celtics seemed to have lost the unique ubuntu togetherness that was always displayed in contrast to the Heat's evil-empire team building style. Since then, the Celtics crushed the Knicks in 4 games, while the Heat managed a somewhat pedestrian 4-1 series victory against the 76ers.
Key Matchups: Chris Bosh vs. Kevin Garnett
Both players are essential to their teams' success, and both are facing big question marks this playoffs: Bosh has yet to live up to his superstar reputation with any playoff performances of note, and Garnett's age and creaky knees seemed to catch up with him at points this season. The 4 who can dominate gives his team an instant leg up in this series.
Rajon Rondo vs. Mike Bibby
Outrageous as this matchup looks, it's key. Rondo absolutely torched the Heat in the beginning of the season, and should have free rein again against a slower pg in Bibby. If he can get to the paint and dish for open looks, the Celtics should send LeBra home yet again. If Bibby can slow Rondo down at all, this series will be a lot closer and a lot more interesting.
Prediction: Celtics in 7
2011 Playoff Preview: West Round 2
4. Oklahoma City Thunder v. 8. Memphis Grizzlies
Regular Season Matchup: 3-1 Memphis
Overview: The Thunder were able to take care of the Nuggets in 5. The Grizzlies added to history by defeated the no. 1 seeded San Antonio Spurs. The Grizzlies team is big and tough, a combination that works better in the playoffs. Unlike the Spurs, the Thunder have the bodies down low to match up with Gasol and Randolph. The perimeter defenders will also make it tougher for Durant to control the game. Homecourt advantage plays a big role for both of these teams that are in new territory after each franchises' first playoff series wins.
Key Matchups: Ibaka/Perkins vs. Randolph/Gasol. The big bodies of the Grizzlies will be matched up against two keys to the Grizzlies success. If the Thunder can keep the Grizzlies off the boards, then it could be tough for Memphis to score.
Prediction: Ultimately, Memphis is a little satisfied with winning in round one. Oklahoma City in 6.
2. Los Angeles Lakers vs. 3. Dallas Mavericks
Regular Season Match-up: 2-1 Lakers
Overview: This is the first time these teams have met in the playoffs in over 20 years which is surprising considering the success of both teams over the past decade. The Mavericks have been asking for the match up for some time, but I don't understand why. The Lakers are bigger and more athletic than the Mavericks. The Mavericks also have a tendency to under-perform in the playoffs. When the Lakers come with a big line-up, Tyson Chandler, Shawn Marion, and Dirk Nowitzki will have to try and match-up.
Key Matchups: Tyson Chandler vs. Andrew Bynum. When Bynum contributes, the Lakers don't lose. With Chandler finally stabilizing the interior defense for the Mavericks, this match-up will decide who wins this series.
Prediction: The Lakers don's slouch now that the games matter, and I don't see Jason Kidd exposing the Lakers' weakness at the 1 spot. Los Angeles in 5.
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