To fill the void in the world of basketball right now, I have decided to follow in SLAMonline's footsteps (somewhat) in counting down the best basketball players in the League today. I remind you to leave your opinions in the comments section since I would like to hear what you think. I'll probably roll out a new part of this blog once every couple weeks so stay tuned. Please note that injuries have no effect on a player's ranking.
#40- Monta Ellis, Golden State Warriors. Even though he's out for the season, we can't forget how great of a year Monta had with averages of 20 points, five rebounds, and four assists. He was essential in leading the Warriors to 48 regular season wins and was a playmaker on both ends of the floor with an average of 1.5 steals per game.
#39- Rudy Gay, Memphis Grizzlies. The only bright spot on the team (after the Grizz "gave" Pau away) was a 20-point scorer in only his second NBA season and started in all the games he played in (81). Because Gay is so good at getting to the hoop, people forget how good of a shooter he is, too. Few realize that he shoots a solid 35% from three-point range.
#38- Mike Dunleavy, Jr., Indiana Pacers. Some may be scratching their heads at this one, but he is fully deserving of the #38 spot, if not higher. I recently wrote an article on Helium.com making a case as to why Dunleavy is the most underrated player in the entire league with averages of 19 points, five rebounds, and four assists last year.
#37- Al Horford, Atlanta Hawks. The big man for the best young team in the East had quite a season last year with his team almost pulling off the miracle upset against the eventual-champion Boston Celtics. In that series, Horford averaged 12 points, ten rebounds, and four assists against the best defensive team in the NBA.
#36- Emeka Okafor, Charlotte Bobcats. The force in the middle for the Cats is one of the few reasons they win as many games as they do (which doesn't say a whole lot, but still). His averages of 14 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks per game are nothing to scoff at, while his 54% shooting from the field is decent as well.
#35- David West, New Orleans Hornets. The second half of one of the most lethal pick-and-roll combos in the League puts up 21 points, nine rebounds, and three assists per game. He is a solid shooter from both the line and the field and, when left open, can knock down the three. He was undoubtedly the second-best player on the second-best regular season team out West last season.
#34- Andre Iguodala, Philadelphia 76ers. The new AI in the City of Brotherly Love is one of the most versatile players in the NBA and has a large array of moves in his repertoire. In only his fourth year in the League, Iguodala put up 20 points, five rebounds, five assists, and two steals. He was the catalyst behind the late-season surge of the Sixers and definitely deserves some love as a top forty player in the L.
#33- Carlos Boozer, Utah Jazz. Some were unhappy with Boozer's inclusion on Team USA when the roster was announced; many more were unhappy with his being on the team as the Olympics went on, saying how he was a non-factor for the gold medalists. Whether he contributed much or not, he is extremely important to the defending Northwest Division champs on both offense and defense. Boozer averaged a double-double in both the regular season and playoffs this past season.
#32- Richard Hamilton, Detroit Pistons. Arguably the best conditioned athlete in the NBA is "Rip" Hamilton. He routinely plays forty minutes a game and never stops running his defender off screens the entire time. His averages of 17 points, four assists, and three rebounds does not accurately portray how vital he is to the Pistons team though. His shooting is even somewhat underrated in my opinion since he is known as only a "mid-range shooter". However, he shot 44% from deep last season.
#31- Joe Johnson, Atlanta Hawks. The second Hawk on my list is a guard, not a big man like the last. Johnson was the scoring presence for Atlanta all season long (22 ppg) and was a very good shooter (38% from deep). His rebounding is actually pretty good for a combo guard, too, with an average of four per game.
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Friday, August 29, 2008
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Team USA 87, Australia 76
The best test Team USA would face during their exhibition schedule would come in the final game. The Aussies held them to the fewest points of any team so far playing without their star big man, Andrew Bogut, who was out with an ankle injury. The Americans shot an abysmal 16.7% from deep while Australia made 40% of their attempts from three-point range.
The Achilles' heel of USA has to be their free throw shooting, which could hurt them in the Olympics against good teams such as Spain. They shot only 60.6% from the line today and Dwight Howard alone went 0-for-6 from the free throw line.
Team USA was also turnover-prone at times especially when the backcourt group of Deron Williams, Chris Paul, and Dwyane Wade entered the game simultaneously. Two passes were thrown away and then another inbounds pass was almost picked off by the Aussies. Most of USA's 11 turnovers for the game, however, happened in their halfcourt offense. They were struggling to score because of Australia's packing their defense in the key and cutting down on USA's one-on-one isolation play opportunities, which are much harder to come by in international play than in the NBA.
For the Aussies, five players scored in double figures and all shared the scoring load, which made them tougher to defend. Their team featured a few Division I college players who were certainly not backing down to the Americans. In the second quarter, there was actually an exchanging of words that featured some pushing and shoving that broke out between some of the players. Personally, it was good for USA to experience something like that before they head to Beijing to begin Olympic play.
For Team USA, Dwyane Wade and LeBron James led the way with 22 and 16 points, respectively. LeBron also added four assists, five steals, and three blocks to his impressive stat line. Chris Paul had a game-high five assists while his teammate, Deron Williams, had zero assists and three turnovers.
As usual, USA had a few defensive lapses that gave the other team easy baskets. On one particular play, they doubled the post and left the weak side vulnerable. It was Carmelo's job to drop into the key but he decided to stay out on the perimeter and attempt to make a steal. An Aussie cut the middle, got the ball, and made a wide-open layup. Little things like that simply cannot happen if Coach K's team wishes to win gold.
I also think it was ludicrous for Carmelo and LeBron to guarantee gold and then for Wade to go out and announce that he has a gold medal tour planned already. They are just adding pressure to themselves when they really aren't so good as many people are believing and hoping they will be. If they play Spain like they did today, they will lose. Mike Krzyzewski and his coaching staff definitely have to make some adjustments such as working on their halfcourt offensive execution and their pick-and-roll defense. It wouldn't hurt to work on their defensive rotations either.
This game against Australia was another win for USA, but other teams like Greece and Spain and Argentina are watching these games and learning how to beat Team USA. It's no coincidence that their two toughest games were the two final friendlies on their exhibition schedule. As of right now, I don't see the Americans winning it all. Nevertheless, they most certainly have the potential and ability to do so.
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The Achilles' heel of USA has to be their free throw shooting, which could hurt them in the Olympics against good teams such as Spain. They shot only 60.6% from the line today and Dwight Howard alone went 0-for-6 from the free throw line.
Team USA was also turnover-prone at times especially when the backcourt group of Deron Williams, Chris Paul, and Dwyane Wade entered the game simultaneously. Two passes were thrown away and then another inbounds pass was almost picked off by the Aussies. Most of USA's 11 turnovers for the game, however, happened in their halfcourt offense. They were struggling to score because of Australia's packing their defense in the key and cutting down on USA's one-on-one isolation play opportunities, which are much harder to come by in international play than in the NBA.
For the Aussies, five players scored in double figures and all shared the scoring load, which made them tougher to defend. Their team featured a few Division I college players who were certainly not backing down to the Americans. In the second quarter, there was actually an exchanging of words that featured some pushing and shoving that broke out between some of the players. Personally, it was good for USA to experience something like that before they head to Beijing to begin Olympic play.
For Team USA, Dwyane Wade and LeBron James led the way with 22 and 16 points, respectively. LeBron also added four assists, five steals, and three blocks to his impressive stat line. Chris Paul had a game-high five assists while his teammate, Deron Williams, had zero assists and three turnovers.
As usual, USA had a few defensive lapses that gave the other team easy baskets. On one particular play, they doubled the post and left the weak side vulnerable. It was Carmelo's job to drop into the key but he decided to stay out on the perimeter and attempt to make a steal. An Aussie cut the middle, got the ball, and made a wide-open layup. Little things like that simply cannot happen if Coach K's team wishes to win gold.
I also think it was ludicrous for Carmelo and LeBron to guarantee gold and then for Wade to go out and announce that he has a gold medal tour planned already. They are just adding pressure to themselves when they really aren't so good as many people are believing and hoping they will be. If they play Spain like they did today, they will lose. Mike Krzyzewski and his coaching staff definitely have to make some adjustments such as working on their halfcourt offensive execution and their pick-and-roll defense. It wouldn't hurt to work on their defensive rotations either.
This game against Australia was another win for USA, but other teams like Greece and Spain and Argentina are watching these games and learning how to beat Team USA. It's no coincidence that their two toughest games were the two final friendlies on their exhibition schedule. As of right now, I don't see the Americans winning it all. Nevertheless, they most certainly have the potential and ability to do so.
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Thursday, July 31, 2008
Team USA vs. Turkey Recap
In what appeared to be USA's first real international test, the Americans put on quite a show. The alley-oops and ferocious dunks were there as usual, but the offensive cohesiveness was something that was missing from the 2004 team. Kobe Bryant, the reigning NBA MVP, only scored nine points but dished out a game-high seven assists. LeBron James, in his first game back from an ankle injury, put up a impressive stat line of 20 points, five rebounds, and four assists.
Dwyane Wade was extremely aggressive on both the offensive and defensive ends yet a tad overaggressive at times, being called for a couple reaching fouls and an offensive foul in the lane. Nonetheless, he finished the game with 13 points and 3 assists on 6-for-9 shooting. The game ended with a final score of 114-82, the expected annihilation of the Turkish squad that was without Hedo Turkoglu (Orlando Magic) and Mehmet Okur (Utah Jazz). However, the game was much closer than the score indicated. The Turks took the lead from USA midway through the first quarter, which ended with Team USA leading by only one point.
Carmelo Anthony, arguably the best international player in the entire world as Fran Fraschilla said, scored 11 first-quarter points but only six in the remaining three periods. Akyol, a Turkish guard, finished with a game-high 22 points which included 3-for-8 shooting from deep.
From the beginning, Turkey was trying to pound the ball inside. On the defensive end, they were sending double-teams at Dwight Howard in the post. This soon ended when Carmelo went on a little scoring run of his very own, which forced Turkey to lay off Howard and focus more on Anthony. Semih Erden, the big man who was just drafted by the Boston Celtics, played very physically inside and left me somewhat impressed. With his size though, he could have been much more assertive with his rebounding.
The biggest problems I saw for Team USA were simple: team defense and rebounding. Although the Americans out-rebounded their opponents 28-25, the Turks had more than half their rebounds on the offensive end. They got a lot of second-chance points because of either bad positioning or no boxing out. At times, USA would have only one guy crashing for the rebound.
Another minor concern was the fact that Team USA was maybe having too much fun at times. Seeing Kobe at the free throw line going through his routine while he was laughing and carrying on was ridiculous and out-of-place. They should have fun but still remain focused and intense. Finally, Coach K should address some of the defensive lapses that occur. Leaving guys wide-open and being so overaggressive that a good shooter gets an open three are things that can't happen if they want to win gold.
All in all though, I was very impressed with everyone's play (even though I didn't get to see any spectacular shooting from Michael Redd) and the USA coaches should be happy with their team's performance. It wasn't easy to bring all these big-name players together but they seemed to have done it very well. I just hope they don't get too overconfident and arrogant about their play. These international teams are serious about winning gold and beating the Americans. If a team like Spain succeeds in taking us down, it's going to be a long road before USA Basketball gets back on track to win gold medals.
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Thursday, July 24, 2008
Team USA, Jennings, and Some Summer Basketball
After a month-long blogging hiatus, I am back to give you the news from the sport I cover best: basketball. We have seen many players moving around this summer which has sent Baron Davis and Marcus Camby to LA, Elton Brand to Philly, and Maggette to Golden State to name only a few. However, all of these events pale in comparison to Team USA. Coach Krzyzewski's team has had more pressure put on them than ever before with some even claiming that if we fail this year, we'll never win another one.
Nonetheless, I simply cannot see our boys losing over in China. Jason Kidd and a team-oriented Kobe Bryant are the veterans on a team that has been playing and practicing together since two summers ago.
LeBron James has even gone ahead and guaranteed a win which, as most of us already know, is not always a smart thing to do in sports. If you've read my past blogs, you already know my stance on guarantees. They are extremely dumb and only put more pressure on the guarantor's team.
I would be even more skeptical of James's statement had Team USA not dominated last year at the FIBA Americas Championship, which included an impressive 91-76 victory of Argentina in the final.
The keys for Team USA will be the same as they were last summer. The main one is to play as a team out on the court and not try to do everything one-on-one. Another is to get up and down the court (the way Coach K has been preaching to them about). After all, they usually have the five most athletic players on the court. Finally, they need to play team defense and that goes for everyone, including Carmelo.
Speaking of basketball on a worldly stage, Brandon Jennings, an Arizona commit, has recently decided to forgo college all together and spend his one year out of high school playing over in Europe. Frankly, I think it's for the best. The NBA is becoming more and more European in the way they play the game of basketball which is why a year over there for Jennings can do nothing but good for him. Besides, he was going to be a one-and-done anyway.
In Las Vegas, meanwhile, rookies Jerryd Bayless and Donte Greene were busy lighting up their opponents, averaging 30 and 23 points respectively. Some other rookies that made an impact were Anthony Randolph (21 ppg, 8 rpg), Kevin Love (18 ppg, 14 rpg), and Marreese Speights (18 ppg, 10 rpg). Non-rookies, such as Quincy Douby (22 ppg) and Ramon Sessions (15 ppg, 7 apg, 5 rpg), also made an impact.
At the Orlando Pro Summer League, Michael Beasley put on a show with 28 points and 9 rebounds in his first professional basketball game. However, the man who was taken ahead of Beasley, Derrick Rose, has had a rough start. He sat out of the past two games due to injuries and has averaged 5 turnovers per game.
Also in Orlando, Russell Westbrook has had a decent summer league so far, proving the doubters wrong. For people like me though, he has just reassured us that a ROY award isn't an impossible feat next season.
After all this, you must still keep in mind that a summer league is a summer league and that great numbers in July don't translate to good number in the regular season. They provide only an inkling of what the player is capable of doing at the pro level. Besides, many of these players (especially those playing for postseason contenders) won't even get significant playing time this season.
So there you have it. That's the summer news for professional basketball right now. Be sure to tune in tomorrow night to watch Team USA take on Canada in an exhibition game. It will, hopefully, not be much of a game, but it will still be fun to watch America's best basketball team play. Here's a cool video for you:
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Poll Results: Every voter agreed that Kobe Bryant will go down in NBA history as a top ten player to ever play, but no one thinks he's good enough to be top 5.
Nonetheless, I simply cannot see our boys losing over in China. Jason Kidd and a team-oriented Kobe Bryant are the veterans on a team that has been playing and practicing together since two summers ago.
LeBron James has even gone ahead and guaranteed a win which, as most of us already know, is not always a smart thing to do in sports. If you've read my past blogs, you already know my stance on guarantees. They are extremely dumb and only put more pressure on the guarantor's team.
I would be even more skeptical of James's statement had Team USA not dominated last year at the FIBA Americas Championship, which included an impressive 91-76 victory of Argentina in the final.
The keys for Team USA will be the same as they were last summer. The main one is to play as a team out on the court and not try to do everything one-on-one. Another is to get up and down the court (the way Coach K has been preaching to them about). After all, they usually have the five most athletic players on the court. Finally, they need to play team defense and that goes for everyone, including Carmelo.
Speaking of basketball on a worldly stage, Brandon Jennings, an Arizona commit, has recently decided to forgo college all together and spend his one year out of high school playing over in Europe. Frankly, I think it's for the best. The NBA is becoming more and more European in the way they play the game of basketball which is why a year over there for Jennings can do nothing but good for him. Besides, he was going to be a one-and-done anyway.
In Las Vegas, meanwhile, rookies Jerryd Bayless and Donte Greene were busy lighting up their opponents, averaging 30 and 23 points respectively. Some other rookies that made an impact were Anthony Randolph (21 ppg, 8 rpg), Kevin Love (18 ppg, 14 rpg), and Marreese Speights (18 ppg, 10 rpg). Non-rookies, such as Quincy Douby (22 ppg) and Ramon Sessions (15 ppg, 7 apg, 5 rpg), also made an impact.
At the Orlando Pro Summer League, Michael Beasley put on a show with 28 points and 9 rebounds in his first professional basketball game. However, the man who was taken ahead of Beasley, Derrick Rose, has had a rough start. He sat out of the past two games due to injuries and has averaged 5 turnovers per game.
Also in Orlando, Russell Westbrook has had a decent summer league so far, proving the doubters wrong. For people like me though, he has just reassured us that a ROY award isn't an impossible feat next season.
After all this, you must still keep in mind that a summer league is a summer league and that great numbers in July don't translate to good number in the regular season. They provide only an inkling of what the player is capable of doing at the pro level. Besides, many of these players (especially those playing for postseason contenders) won't even get significant playing time this season.
So there you have it. That's the summer news for professional basketball right now. Be sure to tune in tomorrow night to watch Team USA take on Canada in an exhibition game. It will, hopefully, not be much of a game, but it will still be fun to watch America's best basketball team play. Here's a cool video for you:
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Poll Results: Every voter agreed that Kobe Bryant will go down in NBA history as a top ten player to ever play, but no one thinks he's good enough to be top 5.
Friday, June 27, 2008
A Wild Night in New York
There were many surprises announced by both the commissioner and the deputy commissioner last night in New York at the NBA Draft. From Russell Westbrook going at #4 to Brook Lopez dropping to #10 and from Jason Thompson being chosen at #12 to DeAndre Jordan and Mario Chalmers having to wait until the second round to hear their names called. No one could have predicted such a thing for one of the deepest draft class's in recent memory. But it was also one of the youngest in recent memory as twelve freshmen were drafted last night.
No surprise was the fact that Derrick Rose, Michael Beasley, and OJ Mayo went 1-2-3 to kick off the draft. Surprising at #4 was Russ Westbrook, the combo guard out of UCLA who was considered by many to be the best defensive guard in the draft. Another surprising selection in the top ten was Danilo Gallinari, whose dad roomed with Coach D'Antoni while Mr. Gallinari played professionally in Italy. However, D'Antoni claims that Danilo has the tools to become a great player in the League, and if you're a Knicks fan, you have to at least be happy with that.
I was also somewhat shocked to see Joe Alexander's and DJ Augustin's names off the board before Jerryd Bayless's and Anthony Randolph's. It was also surprising to see Brook Lopez fall to #10, where the Nets scooped up the second-best center in the draft. What a night for Nets fans! The two biggest winners of the draft has to be them and Portland, both of which were helped tremendously in their aspirations to reach the postseason. Another thing I don't get is why Sacramento didn't trade down a few picks, possibly with Phoenix. Jason Thompson, maybe the biggest surprise pick of the draft, would have still been available and the Suns would have been able to grab Brandon Rush, the one they've been showing the most interest in all along.
Let me know sound off on Roy Hibbert. This guy has bust written all over him and he will be just another benchwarming seven-footer in the NBA. Athleticism is so much more crucial in the League than in college, and Hibbert lacks in that department tremendously. Once he has to guard guys his own size or be guarded by guys as tall as him, he'll be ineffective and useless out on the court.
Next are the Suns. What the hell do they think they're doing? Grant Hill was someone I could live with. Shaq was pushing the envelope with me. Robin Lopez just puts me over the top. They are slowly but surely becoming a half-court walk-it-up team like the Spurs. Now I understand why they got rid of D'Antoni, but I don't understand the reason. They were in contention to win it almost every year so why change? I'm making a bold prediction: Phoenix won't make the playoffs next season.
There were two surprises, in my mind, at the end of the first round. One of them was Donte Greene, someone I had going in the mid-lottery. He dropped all the way down to 28, where has was drafted by the Grizzlies. The second surprise was JR Giddens going in the first round. I saw him as a great pick in the early to mid-second round, but why the first? Why gamble like that when you're the defending world champions? However, Boston redeemed themselves when they traded for Bill Walker, a phenomenal talent who has the potential to be great.
The second round saw seven foreign players drafted, which brings me to another point. Foreign players have the highest chance of being a bust (i.e. Darko Milicic) yet they also have the highest chance of being a steal (i.e. Manu Ginobili). My point? Wait until the second round to draft your European players. You never know; you may get lucky. Also, this shows how weak foreign scouting is even in this modern age.
The second round also featured four players that I could see easily going in the first round: Mario Chalmers at 34, DeAndre Jordan at 35, Chris Douglas-Roberts at 40, and Bill Walker at 47. Walker and CDR are the two that are most puzzling to me. Obviously, the scouts were scared away by the unorthodox methods and injury problems, respectively. However, I would think that at least one scout would see past that and see that one or both of these players has the chance to be a future all-star, if not a solid starter for years to come.
That concludes my breakdown of the deepest and yougest draft class I've ever seen. Good luck to them wherever they play next year whether it be overseas, in the NBA, or in the D-League. Also, a congrats goes out to Semih Erden of Turkey, who had the honor of being drafted last at pick #60.
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No surprise was the fact that Derrick Rose, Michael Beasley, and OJ Mayo went 1-2-3 to kick off the draft. Surprising at #4 was Russ Westbrook, the combo guard out of UCLA who was considered by many to be the best defensive guard in the draft. Another surprising selection in the top ten was Danilo Gallinari, whose dad roomed with Coach D'Antoni while Mr. Gallinari played professionally in Italy. However, D'Antoni claims that Danilo has the tools to become a great player in the League, and if you're a Knicks fan, you have to at least be happy with that.
I was also somewhat shocked to see Joe Alexander's and DJ Augustin's names off the board before Jerryd Bayless's and Anthony Randolph's. It was also surprising to see Brook Lopez fall to #10, where the Nets scooped up the second-best center in the draft. What a night for Nets fans! The two biggest winners of the draft has to be them and Portland, both of which were helped tremendously in their aspirations to reach the postseason. Another thing I don't get is why Sacramento didn't trade down a few picks, possibly with Phoenix. Jason Thompson, maybe the biggest surprise pick of the draft, would have still been available and the Suns would have been able to grab Brandon Rush, the one they've been showing the most interest in all along.
Let me know sound off on Roy Hibbert. This guy has bust written all over him and he will be just another benchwarming seven-footer in the NBA. Athleticism is so much more crucial in the League than in college, and Hibbert lacks in that department tremendously. Once he has to guard guys his own size or be guarded by guys as tall as him, he'll be ineffective and useless out on the court.
Next are the Suns. What the hell do they think they're doing? Grant Hill was someone I could live with. Shaq was pushing the envelope with me. Robin Lopez just puts me over the top. They are slowly but surely becoming a half-court walk-it-up team like the Spurs. Now I understand why they got rid of D'Antoni, but I don't understand the reason. They were in contention to win it almost every year so why change? I'm making a bold prediction: Phoenix won't make the playoffs next season.
There were two surprises, in my mind, at the end of the first round. One of them was Donte Greene, someone I had going in the mid-lottery. He dropped all the way down to 28, where has was drafted by the Grizzlies. The second surprise was JR Giddens going in the first round. I saw him as a great pick in the early to mid-second round, but why the first? Why gamble like that when you're the defending world champions? However, Boston redeemed themselves when they traded for Bill Walker, a phenomenal talent who has the potential to be great.
The second round saw seven foreign players drafted, which brings me to another point. Foreign players have the highest chance of being a bust (i.e. Darko Milicic) yet they also have the highest chance of being a steal (i.e. Manu Ginobili). My point? Wait until the second round to draft your European players. You never know; you may get lucky. Also, this shows how weak foreign scouting is even in this modern age.
The second round also featured four players that I could see easily going in the first round: Mario Chalmers at 34, DeAndre Jordan at 35, Chris Douglas-Roberts at 40, and Bill Walker at 47. Walker and CDR are the two that are most puzzling to me. Obviously, the scouts were scared away by the unorthodox methods and injury problems, respectively. However, I would think that at least one scout would see past that and see that one or both of these players has the chance to be a future all-star, if not a solid starter for years to come.
That concludes my breakdown of the deepest and yougest draft class I've ever seen. Good luck to them wherever they play next year whether it be overseas, in the NBA, or in the D-League. Also, a congrats goes out to Semih Erden of Turkey, who had the honor of being drafted last at pick #60.
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Thursday, June 26, 2008
Denis and GOAT's NBA Mock Draft
This was a post that I co-wrote on FanNation.com with Denis24. I hope you enjoy it.
Denis says:
1. Chicago Bulls select.....PG Derrick Rose
Rose is a terrific athlete and at 6-3, 196 lb., he has great size for a PG. What really hurt Michael Beasley though is that the Bulls just figured out today that Beasley is acctually listed at 6-7. Sure, many people argue that Miami won a title with Udonis Haslem as their starting power forward, but what the Heat had back then that they don't contain now is a healthy Shaq. With the association evolving into a guard-oriented league, Derrick Rose is the favorite at No. 1. Rose is also the safest selection because Rose's defense is much more developed then Beasley's. Beasley still doesn't have the leadership and intangibles that the #1 pick needs to have.
Denis' pick: Derrick Rose
GOAT says:
I agree. Rose is the best pick the Bulls could make. I'm not so sure Beasley is big and strong enough to bang with the big guys of the NBA just yet, and that hurts his chances with Chicago, someone who is in need of a banger down low. However, you're completely right. The League is becoming more guard-oriented and Rose has a bright future in it.
GOAT's pick: Derrick Rose
Denis says:
2. Miami Heat select.....SF/PF Michael Beasley
You guessed it, Michael Beasley is the No. 2 selection here. He is a better athlete than people give him credit for. Along with his NBA ready body, he has the rebounding skills to make him one of the best in the NBA, even being 6-7, as was reported by the Chicago Bulls. He reminds many people of Carmelo Anthony, and that is what he will turn out to be in my opinion. His jumpshot is flawless, although he doesn't play like a 6-7 wing. His post skills are top-notch while he still is one of the quickest forwards in the draft. You will see him starting in the All-Star game in the future, I can guarentee it.
Denis' pick: Michael Beasley
GOAT says:
No argument from me here. He's the obvious choice with the second pick. You also have to love the fact that he's a lefty. It makes him difficult to guard as it is awkward for the defender to play the left hand. He's the perfect fit in Miami and should be great playing alongside Dwyane Wade.
GOAT's pick: Michael Beasley
Denis says:
3. Minnesota Timberwolves select..... C Brook Lopez
Yes, I'm going with the surprise pick here, Brook Lopez. I am not one of those people that are buying all the hype and jumping on the O.J. Mayo bandwagon. Mayo acctually averaged more turnovers (3.5) than assists (3.3), which is a major problem in my opinion. I don't understand if he is a shooting guard or point guard, so there are many questions with him. Lopez has great strength and post skills for a collegiant bigman, but what people don't give him enough credit for is his jump shot, which is ranked 9 out of 10 according to NBAdraft.net. If you want to move Al Jefferson back to his natural position, drafting this stud center would really help. Lopez acctually registerd a rare triple-double against Mayo's USC team, with 18 points, 11 rebounds and 12 blocks. Don't be surprised if the T'Wolves trade this pick.
Denis' pick: Brook Lopez
Goat says:
I hate to keep agreeing with you, but Lopez is my pick here as well. The T'Wolves would absolutely love to give Jefferson a solid frontcourt mate, and Lopez is the perfect guy for them. Not only is he a great scorer, but he's also an underrated defender, ranking 8 out of 10 on NBADraft.net. Some are worried about his athleticism, or lack thereof. I wouldn't worry all that much. His post skills are top-notch and he is fundamentally sound. Denis, you better be disagreeing with me on the fourth pick.
GOAT's pick: Brook Lopez
Denis says:
4. Seattle SuperSonics select..... SG O.J. Mayo
Since both OJ Mayo and Jerryd Bayless are combo guards, I just have to take the best player here, and that is OJ Mayo. Mayo is such an explosive scorer that he can make plays from anywhere on the court. I just don't believe Bayless has the special swagger or leadership about him to carry a team like OJ Mayo does. Mayo's defensive ability and NBA range is what make him stand out in my mind to be the forth pick in this very talented draft. But what really impressed the scouts out there is his outstanding 41" vertical.
Denis' pick: OJ Mayo
GOAT says:
Here is where we disagree. I believe the Sonics will take Jerryd Bayless. Mayo has as many questions marks as a game of 20 Questions. His character is up in the air, and he has been criticized for being a ballhog at times. Seattle definitely does not want that problem. To top it all off, OJ averaged more turnovers than assists last season (3.5 TO to 3.3 AST). Bayless, on the other hand, is much more team-oriented and turns the ball over less while dishing out more assists. OJ may have the higher vertical, but Jerryd is just as good of an athlete as Mayo.
GOAT's pick: Jerryd Bayless
Denis says:
5. Memphis Grizzlies select..... PF Kevin Love
If Memphis makes this move, they will be getting a gifted bigman with an amazing basketball IQ. He can mix his game up greatly, playing anywhere from physical to finesse basketball. This is also a selection based on desperate need at the power forward position. They have Hakim Warrick, Brian Cardinal, Darko Milicic, and Jason Collins, which isn't very good from a talent perspective. Kevin Love would bring some needed help, which is a combination of his mid-range jump shot and his back-to-the-basket post moves.
Denis' pick: Kevin Love
GOAT says:
I agree that Love is the best choice here. Some people have said that OJ Mayo would be chosen here. However, the Grizzlies already have Mike Conley and Rudy Gay in the backcourt. Is there really a need for a player such as OJ? Take Love and have him play alongside Warrick. In a few years, they'll be very competitive in the ultra-tough Southwest.
GOAT's pick: Kevin Love
Denis says:
6. New York Knicks select..... PG/SG Jerryd Bayless
The Knicks have been praying that Bayless would fall to their laps at No. 6. Bayless may not be the playmaker they are looking for, but he sure is athletic and skilled, and that is what the Knicks are looking for. With Jamaal Crawford and Jerryd Bayless in the backcourt, this team could acctually be decent. But of course, nothing could change the Knicks, that's for sure. Bayless just might be the next Gilbert Arenas because his potential is so huge. I wouldn't be surprised to see his excellent floor speed make contributions in New York.
Denis' pick: Jerryd Bayless
GOAT says:
Mike D'Antoni will be taking OJ Mayo with this pick. I don't think Bayless will still be on the board by now, and Mayo gets the nod over Russell Westbrook. His defense and scoring abilities are top-notch, but has some room for improvement with his passing and leadership. We can only hope that the bright lights of NYC don't have him doing stuff he shouldn't be.
GOAT's pick: OJ Mayo
Denis says:
7. Los Angeles Clippers select..... SG Eric Gordon
With his talent still being available, the Clippers have to pick Eric Gordon. His combination of strength and athleticism is just outright amazing. His jumpshot seems so smooth when you watch him play. Defensively, he has the potential to be a lock-down defender in this league because ofthe physical tools he has. I know that they are weak at other positions, but if Maggette and Brand decide to depart from the team, that will clear some space up to go out and fill those wholes, and right now, Gordon is definately the right choice here.
Denis' pick: Eric Gordon
GOAT says:
Eric Gordon is the right pick for the Clippers. You're right on the money with him. He has the potential to be a very good defender along with being an accomplished scorer. Some are comparing him to Mitch Richmond, which I can understand with his kind of ability. He's quite small for a 2-guard though and may have to play some time at the point guard position. That's my only real concern with him.
GOAT's pick: Eric Gordon
Denis says:
8. Milwaukee Bucks select..... SF Anthony Randolph
Milwaukee would love to have Danilo Gallinari on their team, but reports have it that Galinari refuses to work out for the Bucks, leading to some speculation that he doesn't want to be the next Yi Jianlian. Both didn't want to come to the US and play in a city like Milwaukee. That may cause some problems in the future, but for now, Randolph is the safest and best pick. He's a long and lenghty wingman with tremendous upside. He is a very raw talent and could eventually turn into the next Lamar Odom or Tayshaun Prince. His overall talent, along with his untapped potential, can make him a really good starting small forward in this league some day.
Denis' pick: Anthony Randolph
GOAT says:
I, too, think Milwaukee will take Randolph with the ninth pick. He's pretty athletic and he plays bigger than he really is. His potential is through-the-roof, and Randolph has great size to play the 3. Some have Joe Alexander going at this position, but I believe he is overrated. He gets reckless and doesn't play fundamentally-sound all that much or all that well. On the flip side, if Randolph wants to make an impact at the next level, he needs to bulk up.
GOAT's pick: Anthony Randolph
Denis says:
9. Charlotte Bobcats select..... SF Danilo Gallinari
Their is no big man available with the talent to go this high on the board, so I wouldn'd be surprised if the 'Cats traded this pick in the situation. But if I'm forced to predict, it'd have to be the best player available, Danilo Gallinari. This player's an absolute stud. He has basketball in his blood and his intangibles are off the charts. Scouts love his jump shot, plus they believe he has point guard skills in an 6-8 body. We are hearing some Gerald Wallace rumors, and, let's face it, Adam Morrison is and forever will be, a total bust in the NBA.
Denis' pick: Danilo Gallinari
GOAT says:
I don't think Gallinari is what they're looking for. They already have Gerald Wallace and Adam Morrison and all that. Why add on? They need a big guy. DeAndre Jordan is the pick here. Some weren't expecting him to be chosen until later, but he's the best big guy left at this point. He has the potential to be the next Dwight Howard and features much athleticism and good size. I got to see him play at Madison Square Garden against Washington. He finished the game with 8 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks yet his presence in the lane seemed to deter penetration from the Huskies.
GOAT's pick: DeAndre Jordan
Denis says:
10. New Jersey Nets select..... SF/PF Joe Alexander
I know you might be surprised to see DJ Augustine and Russell Westbrook still on the board, but that just isn't what the Nets are looking for. Joe Alexander is their man here, even though I know you will disagree. His winner's mentality and untapped potential combine to give him one of the biggest upsides in the draft. His athleticism is just amazing, and you never know what move he will make on the perimeter, which makes him so unpredictable. Some people are really bashing him, but after the performances he put up in the Big East Tournament and March Madness, I don't see how he doesn't go at least in the top 15, if not top 10.
Denis' pick: Joe Alexander
GOAT says:
You bet I'm disagreeing. I'll take Donte Greene from Syracuse with this pick. I'm not so sure he'll get chosen here as much as I am sure that he's the better of the two players. He's just as athletic as Alexander yet features a much better jump shot. Greene, just like your pick, has much potential and is a very good penetrator. Last season, Greene, with much less experience than Alexander had at WVU, averaged one point and one rebound more while averaging the same amount of assists, steals, and blocks.
GOAT's pick: Donte Greene
Denis says:
11. Indiana Pacers select..... PG/SG Russell Westbrook
If DJ Augustine and Russell Westbrook are still available, the Pacers would probably select Westbrook because of his quickness and athleticism, while playing the combo guard position. The problem with him is his heighth at SG, but his lenghth makes up for that. He really gets to the lane effortlessly, and he is a real gym rat. Indiana needs to replace Jamaal Tinsley, who is on his way out of Indiana.
Denis' pick: Russell Westbrook
GOAT says:
Yeah, it's pretty obvious that Tinsley's days are numbered in a Pacers uniform so they're looking to pick up a guard, and Russell Westbrook will be that guard. You forgot to mention the outstanding defense he plays and is considered by many to be the best defensive guard in the draft. Although bulking up and getting stronger would help him against the bigger point guards in the NBA. Russ will be able to play the 1 no problem; he's an underrated ball-handler and passer, and he's exactly what Indiana needs and wants.
GOAT's pick: Russell Westbrook
Denis says:
12. Sacramento Kings select..... C Roy Hibbert
This might be a very questionable selection here, but Roy Hibbert is the best available big man, and that is what they need. He's a center with great size and strength around the basket. He has soft hands to go along with his excellent post moves. The only question I have with Hibbert is his quickness and athleticism. He will immidiately become one of the best half-court defenders on the Kings roster.
Denis' pick: Roy Hibbert
GOAT says:
Key word is half-court. He'll be playing in the Western Conference where they get up and down the floor, and he won't be able to keep up. Ron Artest may be on his way out of Sacramento, and that's the exact reason why they'll be taking Joe Alexander with this pick. He's one of the most athletic people in the entire draft class, and truly plays above the rim when he drives. If he wants to succeed though, he must work on his fundmentals and his jump shot.
GOAT's pick: Joe Alexander
Denis says:
13. Portland Trailblazers select..... PG DJ Augustin
DJ Augustin is one of the only true point guards in this year's draft. He is the kind of guy that looks for his teammates first, and that's why he averaged 6.7 ppg. His quickness with the ball and leadership ability is what intrigues Portland the most. I don't believe in Steve Blake and Jarret Jack being solid starting point guards, while Sergio Rodriguez is entering his first year in the league. The Blazers also aquired the 27th selection, where they can go with either Ante Tomic or Nicolas Batum. The Blazers also had trade talks with the Nets about Richard Jefferson, the Suns about Leandro Barbosa, and the Grizzlies about a deal that would package the No. 13 pick and the expiring contract of Raef LaFrentz to Memphis for No. 5, Brian Cardinal, and Jason Collins. We'll just have to wait and see.....
Denis' pick: DJ Augustin
GOAT says:
I agree with their taking Augustin at #13. The only weakness I really see in Portland's starting lineup is at point guard, and what they need is a true point guard. DJ Augustin will facilitate and make those around him better. In two years, the Blazers will be an obvious pick to make the playoffs because of this guy even though they're in the ultra-tough Western Conference. For the record though, I think Tomic isn't worth a first-round selection and Batum will be off the board by then.
GOAT's pick: DJ Augustin
Denis says:
14. Golden State Warriors select..... C Kosta Koufos
Koufos has been rising in most people's draft boards, and for one reason: he's playing more physical. He's a very skilled bigman to say the least. He can score the basketball from both inside and out, reminding some people of Utah's Mehmet Okur. Defensively, he will be able to handle the big and talented centers in the West. Don't be surprised to see Robin Lopez go here if the Anderson Varejao trade rumors don't pan out, because both Varejao and Lopez are hustle players, but as of right now, Koufos' offensive skills and Biedrins' defensive and rebounding ability are a perfect complement for each other.
Denis' pick: Kosta Koufos
GOAT says:
Golden State doesn't really have any glaring weakness that they need to address in the draft. They finished the season above .500 and are set pretty well down low with Biedrins and Al Harrington. I say they take the best available in Danilo Gallinari. He's a good scorer who possesses a good jump shot and all the right intangibles. Gallinari could step in right away and make a difference in games. He's also a pretty good passer for a forward.
GOAT's pick: Danilo Gallinari
Rest of the Draft:
Denis says:
15. Phoenix Suns: SG/SF Brandon Rush
16. Philadelphia: PF/C Robin Lopez
17. Toronto: PG Mario Chalmers (If in fact the Jermaine O'neal deal goes down)
18. Washington: PF Darrell Arthur
19. Cleveland: PF Jason Thompson
20. Denver Nuggets: PF/C Marreese Speights
21. New Jersey: C DeAndre Jordan
22. Orlando: C JaVale McGee
23. Utah Jazz: PF/C Alexis Ajinca
24. Seattle: PF/C Serge Ibaka
25. Houston: SF Donte Greene
26. San Antonio: SF/PF Ryan Anderson
27. Portland: SG/SF Nicolas Batum
28. Memphis: PF JJ Hickson
29. Detroit: SG Chris Douglas-Roberts
30. Boston: SG Courtney Lee
GOAT says:
15. Phoenix: Brandon Rush
16. Philadelphia: Nicolas Batum
17. Toronto: Roy Hibbert (O'Neal was never all that reliable)
18. Washington: Darrell Arthur
19. Cleveland: Chris Douglas-Roberts
20. Denver: Marreese Speights
21. New Jersey: Robin Lopez
22. Orlando: Jason Thompson
23. Utah: JaVale McGee
24. Seattle: Ryan Anderson
25. Houston: Alexis Ajinca
26. San Antonio: Omer Asik
27. Portland: JJ Hickson
28. Memphis: Mario Chalmers
29. Detroit: Courtney Lee
30. Boston: Bill Walker
Watch the 2008 NBA Draft June 26th, 2008, on ESPN at 7 p.m.-12 a.m. ET
Denis says:
1. Chicago Bulls select.....PG Derrick Rose
Rose is a terrific athlete and at 6-3, 196 lb., he has great size for a PG. What really hurt Michael Beasley though is that the Bulls just figured out today that Beasley is acctually listed at 6-7. Sure, many people argue that Miami won a title with Udonis Haslem as their starting power forward, but what the Heat had back then that they don't contain now is a healthy Shaq. With the association evolving into a guard-oriented league, Derrick Rose is the favorite at No. 1. Rose is also the safest selection because Rose's defense is much more developed then Beasley's. Beasley still doesn't have the leadership and intangibles that the #1 pick needs to have.
Denis' pick: Derrick Rose
GOAT says:
I agree. Rose is the best pick the Bulls could make. I'm not so sure Beasley is big and strong enough to bang with the big guys of the NBA just yet, and that hurts his chances with Chicago, someone who is in need of a banger down low. However, you're completely right. The League is becoming more guard-oriented and Rose has a bright future in it.
GOAT's pick: Derrick Rose
Denis says:
2. Miami Heat select.....SF/PF Michael Beasley
You guessed it, Michael Beasley is the No. 2 selection here. He is a better athlete than people give him credit for. Along with his NBA ready body, he has the rebounding skills to make him one of the best in the NBA, even being 6-7, as was reported by the Chicago Bulls. He reminds many people of Carmelo Anthony, and that is what he will turn out to be in my opinion. His jumpshot is flawless, although he doesn't play like a 6-7 wing. His post skills are top-notch while he still is one of the quickest forwards in the draft. You will see him starting in the All-Star game in the future, I can guarentee it.
Denis' pick: Michael Beasley
GOAT says:
No argument from me here. He's the obvious choice with the second pick. You also have to love the fact that he's a lefty. It makes him difficult to guard as it is awkward for the defender to play the left hand. He's the perfect fit in Miami and should be great playing alongside Dwyane Wade.
GOAT's pick: Michael Beasley
Denis says:
3. Minnesota Timberwolves select..... C Brook Lopez
Yes, I'm going with the surprise pick here, Brook Lopez. I am not one of those people that are buying all the hype and jumping on the O.J. Mayo bandwagon. Mayo acctually averaged more turnovers (3.5) than assists (3.3), which is a major problem in my opinion. I don't understand if he is a shooting guard or point guard, so there are many questions with him. Lopez has great strength and post skills for a collegiant bigman, but what people don't give him enough credit for is his jump shot, which is ranked 9 out of 10 according to NBAdraft.net. If you want to move Al Jefferson back to his natural position, drafting this stud center would really help. Lopez acctually registerd a rare triple-double against Mayo's USC team, with 18 points, 11 rebounds and 12 blocks. Don't be surprised if the T'Wolves trade this pick.
Denis' pick: Brook Lopez
Goat says:
I hate to keep agreeing with you, but Lopez is my pick here as well. The T'Wolves would absolutely love to give Jefferson a solid frontcourt mate, and Lopez is the perfect guy for them. Not only is he a great scorer, but he's also an underrated defender, ranking 8 out of 10 on NBADraft.net. Some are worried about his athleticism, or lack thereof. I wouldn't worry all that much. His post skills are top-notch and he is fundamentally sound. Denis, you better be disagreeing with me on the fourth pick.
GOAT's pick: Brook Lopez
Denis says:
4. Seattle SuperSonics select..... SG O.J. Mayo
Since both OJ Mayo and Jerryd Bayless are combo guards, I just have to take the best player here, and that is OJ Mayo. Mayo is such an explosive scorer that he can make plays from anywhere on the court. I just don't believe Bayless has the special swagger or leadership about him to carry a team like OJ Mayo does. Mayo's defensive ability and NBA range is what make him stand out in my mind to be the forth pick in this very talented draft. But what really impressed the scouts out there is his outstanding 41" vertical.
Denis' pick: OJ Mayo
GOAT says:
Here is where we disagree. I believe the Sonics will take Jerryd Bayless. Mayo has as many questions marks as a game of 20 Questions. His character is up in the air, and he has been criticized for being a ballhog at times. Seattle definitely does not want that problem. To top it all off, OJ averaged more turnovers than assists last season (3.5 TO to 3.3 AST). Bayless, on the other hand, is much more team-oriented and turns the ball over less while dishing out more assists. OJ may have the higher vertical, but Jerryd is just as good of an athlete as Mayo.
GOAT's pick: Jerryd Bayless
Denis says:
5. Memphis Grizzlies select..... PF Kevin Love
If Memphis makes this move, they will be getting a gifted bigman with an amazing basketball IQ. He can mix his game up greatly, playing anywhere from physical to finesse basketball. This is also a selection based on desperate need at the power forward position. They have Hakim Warrick, Brian Cardinal, Darko Milicic, and Jason Collins, which isn't very good from a talent perspective. Kevin Love would bring some needed help, which is a combination of his mid-range jump shot and his back-to-the-basket post moves.
Denis' pick: Kevin Love
GOAT says:
I agree that Love is the best choice here. Some people have said that OJ Mayo would be chosen here. However, the Grizzlies already have Mike Conley and Rudy Gay in the backcourt. Is there really a need for a player such as OJ? Take Love and have him play alongside Warrick. In a few years, they'll be very competitive in the ultra-tough Southwest.
GOAT's pick: Kevin Love
Denis says:
6. New York Knicks select..... PG/SG Jerryd Bayless
The Knicks have been praying that Bayless would fall to their laps at No. 6. Bayless may not be the playmaker they are looking for, but he sure is athletic and skilled, and that is what the Knicks are looking for. With Jamaal Crawford and Jerryd Bayless in the backcourt, this team could acctually be decent. But of course, nothing could change the Knicks, that's for sure. Bayless just might be the next Gilbert Arenas because his potential is so huge. I wouldn't be surprised to see his excellent floor speed make contributions in New York.
Denis' pick: Jerryd Bayless
GOAT says:
Mike D'Antoni will be taking OJ Mayo with this pick. I don't think Bayless will still be on the board by now, and Mayo gets the nod over Russell Westbrook. His defense and scoring abilities are top-notch, but has some room for improvement with his passing and leadership. We can only hope that the bright lights of NYC don't have him doing stuff he shouldn't be.
GOAT's pick: OJ Mayo
Denis says:
7. Los Angeles Clippers select..... SG Eric Gordon
With his talent still being available, the Clippers have to pick Eric Gordon. His combination of strength and athleticism is just outright amazing. His jumpshot seems so smooth when you watch him play. Defensively, he has the potential to be a lock-down defender in this league because ofthe physical tools he has. I know that they are weak at other positions, but if Maggette and Brand decide to depart from the team, that will clear some space up to go out and fill those wholes, and right now, Gordon is definately the right choice here.
Denis' pick: Eric Gordon
GOAT says:
Eric Gordon is the right pick for the Clippers. You're right on the money with him. He has the potential to be a very good defender along with being an accomplished scorer. Some are comparing him to Mitch Richmond, which I can understand with his kind of ability. He's quite small for a 2-guard though and may have to play some time at the point guard position. That's my only real concern with him.
GOAT's pick: Eric Gordon
Denis says:
8. Milwaukee Bucks select..... SF Anthony Randolph
Milwaukee would love to have Danilo Gallinari on their team, but reports have it that Galinari refuses to work out for the Bucks, leading to some speculation that he doesn't want to be the next Yi Jianlian. Both didn't want to come to the US and play in a city like Milwaukee. That may cause some problems in the future, but for now, Randolph is the safest and best pick. He's a long and lenghty wingman with tremendous upside. He is a very raw talent and could eventually turn into the next Lamar Odom or Tayshaun Prince. His overall talent, along with his untapped potential, can make him a really good starting small forward in this league some day.
Denis' pick: Anthony Randolph
GOAT says:
I, too, think Milwaukee will take Randolph with the ninth pick. He's pretty athletic and he plays bigger than he really is. His potential is through-the-roof, and Randolph has great size to play the 3. Some have Joe Alexander going at this position, but I believe he is overrated. He gets reckless and doesn't play fundamentally-sound all that much or all that well. On the flip side, if Randolph wants to make an impact at the next level, he needs to bulk up.
GOAT's pick: Anthony Randolph
Denis says:
9. Charlotte Bobcats select..... SF Danilo Gallinari
Their is no big man available with the talent to go this high on the board, so I wouldn'd be surprised if the 'Cats traded this pick in the situation. But if I'm forced to predict, it'd have to be the best player available, Danilo Gallinari. This player's an absolute stud. He has basketball in his blood and his intangibles are off the charts. Scouts love his jump shot, plus they believe he has point guard skills in an 6-8 body. We are hearing some Gerald Wallace rumors, and, let's face it, Adam Morrison is and forever will be, a total bust in the NBA.
Denis' pick: Danilo Gallinari
GOAT says:
I don't think Gallinari is what they're looking for. They already have Gerald Wallace and Adam Morrison and all that. Why add on? They need a big guy. DeAndre Jordan is the pick here. Some weren't expecting him to be chosen until later, but he's the best big guy left at this point. He has the potential to be the next Dwight Howard and features much athleticism and good size. I got to see him play at Madison Square Garden against Washington. He finished the game with 8 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks yet his presence in the lane seemed to deter penetration from the Huskies.
GOAT's pick: DeAndre Jordan
Denis says:
10. New Jersey Nets select..... SF/PF Joe Alexander
I know you might be surprised to see DJ Augustine and Russell Westbrook still on the board, but that just isn't what the Nets are looking for. Joe Alexander is their man here, even though I know you will disagree. His winner's mentality and untapped potential combine to give him one of the biggest upsides in the draft. His athleticism is just amazing, and you never know what move he will make on the perimeter, which makes him so unpredictable. Some people are really bashing him, but after the performances he put up in the Big East Tournament and March Madness, I don't see how he doesn't go at least in the top 15, if not top 10.
Denis' pick: Joe Alexander
GOAT says:
You bet I'm disagreeing. I'll take Donte Greene from Syracuse with this pick. I'm not so sure he'll get chosen here as much as I am sure that he's the better of the two players. He's just as athletic as Alexander yet features a much better jump shot. Greene, just like your pick, has much potential and is a very good penetrator. Last season, Greene, with much less experience than Alexander had at WVU, averaged one point and one rebound more while averaging the same amount of assists, steals, and blocks.
GOAT's pick: Donte Greene
Denis says:
11. Indiana Pacers select..... PG/SG Russell Westbrook
If DJ Augustine and Russell Westbrook are still available, the Pacers would probably select Westbrook because of his quickness and athleticism, while playing the combo guard position. The problem with him is his heighth at SG, but his lenghth makes up for that. He really gets to the lane effortlessly, and he is a real gym rat. Indiana needs to replace Jamaal Tinsley, who is on his way out of Indiana.
Denis' pick: Russell Westbrook
GOAT says:
Yeah, it's pretty obvious that Tinsley's days are numbered in a Pacers uniform so they're looking to pick up a guard, and Russell Westbrook will be that guard. You forgot to mention the outstanding defense he plays and is considered by many to be the best defensive guard in the draft. Although bulking up and getting stronger would help him against the bigger point guards in the NBA. Russ will be able to play the 1 no problem; he's an underrated ball-handler and passer, and he's exactly what Indiana needs and wants.
GOAT's pick: Russell Westbrook
Denis says:
12. Sacramento Kings select..... C Roy Hibbert
This might be a very questionable selection here, but Roy Hibbert is the best available big man, and that is what they need. He's a center with great size and strength around the basket. He has soft hands to go along with his excellent post moves. The only question I have with Hibbert is his quickness and athleticism. He will immidiately become one of the best half-court defenders on the Kings roster.
Denis' pick: Roy Hibbert
GOAT says:
Key word is half-court. He'll be playing in the Western Conference where they get up and down the floor, and he won't be able to keep up. Ron Artest may be on his way out of Sacramento, and that's the exact reason why they'll be taking Joe Alexander with this pick. He's one of the most athletic people in the entire draft class, and truly plays above the rim when he drives. If he wants to succeed though, he must work on his fundmentals and his jump shot.
GOAT's pick: Joe Alexander
Denis says:
13. Portland Trailblazers select..... PG DJ Augustin
DJ Augustin is one of the only true point guards in this year's draft. He is the kind of guy that looks for his teammates first, and that's why he averaged 6.7 ppg. His quickness with the ball and leadership ability is what intrigues Portland the most. I don't believe in Steve Blake and Jarret Jack being solid starting point guards, while Sergio Rodriguez is entering his first year in the league. The Blazers also aquired the 27th selection, where they can go with either Ante Tomic or Nicolas Batum. The Blazers also had trade talks with the Nets about Richard Jefferson, the Suns about Leandro Barbosa, and the Grizzlies about a deal that would package the No. 13 pick and the expiring contract of Raef LaFrentz to Memphis for No. 5, Brian Cardinal, and Jason Collins. We'll just have to wait and see.....
Denis' pick: DJ Augustin
GOAT says:
I agree with their taking Augustin at #13. The only weakness I really see in Portland's starting lineup is at point guard, and what they need is a true point guard. DJ Augustin will facilitate and make those around him better. In two years, the Blazers will be an obvious pick to make the playoffs because of this guy even though they're in the ultra-tough Western Conference. For the record though, I think Tomic isn't worth a first-round selection and Batum will be off the board by then.
GOAT's pick: DJ Augustin
Denis says:
14. Golden State Warriors select..... C Kosta Koufos
Koufos has been rising in most people's draft boards, and for one reason: he's playing more physical. He's a very skilled bigman to say the least. He can score the basketball from both inside and out, reminding some people of Utah's Mehmet Okur. Defensively, he will be able to handle the big and talented centers in the West. Don't be surprised to see Robin Lopez go here if the Anderson Varejao trade rumors don't pan out, because both Varejao and Lopez are hustle players, but as of right now, Koufos' offensive skills and Biedrins' defensive and rebounding ability are a perfect complement for each other.
Denis' pick: Kosta Koufos
GOAT says:
Golden State doesn't really have any glaring weakness that they need to address in the draft. They finished the season above .500 and are set pretty well down low with Biedrins and Al Harrington. I say they take the best available in Danilo Gallinari. He's a good scorer who possesses a good jump shot and all the right intangibles. Gallinari could step in right away and make a difference in games. He's also a pretty good passer for a forward.
GOAT's pick: Danilo Gallinari
Rest of the Draft:
Denis says:
15. Phoenix Suns: SG/SF Brandon Rush
16. Philadelphia: PF/C Robin Lopez
17. Toronto: PG Mario Chalmers (If in fact the Jermaine O'neal deal goes down)
18. Washington: PF Darrell Arthur
19. Cleveland: PF Jason Thompson
20. Denver Nuggets: PF/C Marreese Speights
21. New Jersey: C DeAndre Jordan
22. Orlando: C JaVale McGee
23. Utah Jazz: PF/C Alexis Ajinca
24. Seattle: PF/C Serge Ibaka
25. Houston: SF Donte Greene
26. San Antonio: SF/PF Ryan Anderson
27. Portland: SG/SF Nicolas Batum
28. Memphis: PF JJ Hickson
29. Detroit: SG Chris Douglas-Roberts
30. Boston: SG Courtney Lee
GOAT says:
15. Phoenix: Brandon Rush
16. Philadelphia: Nicolas Batum
17. Toronto: Roy Hibbert (O'Neal was never all that reliable)
18. Washington: Darrell Arthur
19. Cleveland: Chris Douglas-Roberts
20. Denver: Marreese Speights
21. New Jersey: Robin Lopez
22. Orlando: Jason Thompson
23. Utah: JaVale McGee
24. Seattle: Ryan Anderson
25. Houston: Alexis Ajinca
26. San Antonio: Omer Asik
27. Portland: JJ Hickson
28. Memphis: Mario Chalmers
29. Detroit: Courtney Lee
30. Boston: Bill Walker
Watch the 2008 NBA Draft June 26th, 2008, on ESPN at 7 p.m.-12 a.m. ET
Saturday, June 21, 2008
The Enigma of the Arizona Wildcats
I'm what most would consider a basketball nerd. Today, I was scanning through the NBADraft.net's 2009 mock draft when I noticed that there was one team whose name I kept seeing very early in the draft. That team was Arizona. It struck me as somewhat odd since I hadn't heard much about them among next year's contenders. The nerd in me forced itself to research this team. Turns out, not one expert has them ranked in the Top 25 of next season. Here are the three Arizona Wildcats that are all projected to go in the top 17 of next year's draft.
Brandon Jennings, 6-1, PG, Freshman: He appears to be a sure lottery pick while many have him in their top 5. Trust me when I say this, he is the best point guard the NBA draft will have since Chris Paul. He is a Kenny Anderson clone who can score in bunches while making everyone around him better. If he improves his defense, he will be able to wreak havoc on both ends of the floor with his quickness and speed.
Chase Budinger, 6-7, SG, Junior: Many compare this player to Grant Hill. Budinger is a freak athlete who is NBA-ready yet still shows much potential. You also can't forget that he has a 40-inch vertical which he uses to his advantage when he attacks the basket. Last season, Chase averaged 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists while shooting 38% from long range.
Jordan Hill, 6-10, PF, Junior: Another fantastic athlete that has the size to bang in the post. His wingspan allows him to play bigger than he really is as well. The only knock on him is his hustle and effort, which, at times, can be lackadaisical. Nonetheless, he is a great pick in the top 20 of next year's draft. As a sophomore last year, Hill averaged 13 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks while shooting 68% from the field.
With two top ten picks in the backcourt, it leaves you to wonder how a team like Arizona could not be mentioned with next year's elite. Of course, Hill and Budinger were there last year with Jerryd Bayless. Somehow, someway, they managed to play lousy, going an average 19-15. What would make this year any different?
For one, Lute Olson will be back on the sidelines in Tuscon after a year-long hiatus from coaching. Also, they have a solid recruiting class. Joining the superstar Jennings will be Jeff Withey, a center ranked as the #35 overall recruit in the 2008 class. Jennings should make up for the void Bayless left when he forewent his last three years of eligibility to enter his name in the NBA Draft. The Oak Hill star will add a playmaking ability that was missing in Bayless's repertoire. Withey should also get some solid minutes on a team that lacked a true center last year.
Nic Wise, who played almost thirty minutes per game as a sophomore, will be returning and should help the backcourt when needed. Jamelle Horne should embrace his bigger role in the Wildcats' frontcourt this year, too. In fact, of the six players that received the most playing time last year, four are returning.
Quite frankly, I can't understand why there is no hype for this team. They have their Hall of Fame coach coming back as well as two first round draft picks to go along with the #1 point guard in the Class of 2008. Arizona has great potential in the upcoming season. Hopefully, come March, every one of those experts that skipped over them in the preseason will be kicking himself or herself. I'll be at my computer saying, "I told you so."
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Brandon Jennings, 6-1, PG, Freshman: He appears to be a sure lottery pick while many have him in their top 5. Trust me when I say this, he is the best point guard the NBA draft will have since Chris Paul. He is a Kenny Anderson clone who can score in bunches while making everyone around him better. If he improves his defense, he will be able to wreak havoc on both ends of the floor with his quickness and speed.
Chase Budinger, 6-7, SG, Junior: Many compare this player to Grant Hill. Budinger is a freak athlete who is NBA-ready yet still shows much potential. You also can't forget that he has a 40-inch vertical which he uses to his advantage when he attacks the basket. Last season, Chase averaged 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists while shooting 38% from long range.
Jordan Hill, 6-10, PF, Junior: Another fantastic athlete that has the size to bang in the post. His wingspan allows him to play bigger than he really is as well. The only knock on him is his hustle and effort, which, at times, can be lackadaisical. Nonetheless, he is a great pick in the top 20 of next year's draft. As a sophomore last year, Hill averaged 13 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks while shooting 68% from the field.
With two top ten picks in the backcourt, it leaves you to wonder how a team like Arizona could not be mentioned with next year's elite. Of course, Hill and Budinger were there last year with Jerryd Bayless. Somehow, someway, they managed to play lousy, going an average 19-15. What would make this year any different?
For one, Lute Olson will be back on the sidelines in Tuscon after a year-long hiatus from coaching. Also, they have a solid recruiting class. Joining the superstar Jennings will be Jeff Withey, a center ranked as the #35 overall recruit in the 2008 class. Jennings should make up for the void Bayless left when he forewent his last three years of eligibility to enter his name in the NBA Draft. The Oak Hill star will add a playmaking ability that was missing in Bayless's repertoire. Withey should also get some solid minutes on a team that lacked a true center last year.
Nic Wise, who played almost thirty minutes per game as a sophomore, will be returning and should help the backcourt when needed. Jamelle Horne should embrace his bigger role in the Wildcats' frontcourt this year, too. In fact, of the six players that received the most playing time last year, four are returning.
Quite frankly, I can't understand why there is no hype for this team. They have their Hall of Fame coach coming back as well as two first round draft picks to go along with the #1 point guard in the Class of 2008. Arizona has great potential in the upcoming season. Hopefully, come March, every one of those experts that skipped over them in the preseason will be kicking himself or herself. I'll be at my computer saying, "I told you so."
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Thursday, June 19, 2008
Defending Kobe Bryant
Kobe. The mere mention of his name breeds controversy. After what some would consider a poor showing in the NBA Finals, he is doubted now more than ever. "He can't win without Shaq." "He's just a selfish player who can only score." Is it fair? Not in the least bit. Is it said? Most definitely. I am now writing this as Kobe's basketball lawyer.
Disclaimer: I am not liable for anything written in this blog. I am neither a diehard Lakers fan nor a Celtics hater. I feel compelled to give you the whole truth and nothing but it. Please do not hold anything against me for what you may or may not read here.
Accusation #1: "Kobe didn't deserve the MVP award."
That is ludicrous on every level. Kobe has been the best all-around player in the League for a couple years now. This year, however, he stepped up his team game. He was getting them the ball more often. The result? An NBA Finals appearance. However, in those six season-ending games, Kobe's teammates froze up. They suddenly were struggling at the most inopportune time. The Celtics' fantastic defense didn't help much either. Kobe always had a defender right on him, and as soon as he put the ball on the floor to make a move, another defender would be coming to help. Sometimes, it didn't work, like when Kobe dropped 36 in Los Angeles. Other times, it did.
Kobe's numbers were great as always, but what separated him from players such as Chris Paul and LeBron James was the fact that he led (yes, I use the term "led") his team to the #1 seed in an extremely tough conference that was chalk full of parity. To not give him the award would be an injustice. He earned it; he got it. Some have even gone as far as saying that Kobe got the award because the voters were afraid of the backlash if he didn't receive it. That statement is pure ignorance. The voters have long been receiving backlash for their choices so what would make this year any different?
Accusation #2: "Kobe isn't a team player."
This is the one that I have long had a problem with. You have to understand Kobe's personality I suppose. He wants to win above everything else. His desire and passion for the game is unparalleled by anyone in the NBA. Therefore, if it means he has to score 40 points for his team to win, he does it. If it means he has to share the ball and get his teammates involved, he does that, too. Now, some may not believe my last statement, but Kobe has done it before. Take a look at last year's FIBA World Championships. Kobe was playing alongside superstars such as LeBron and Carmelo. The result was exactly what I expected. He was among the team leaders in assists.
Since most readers don't believe what they hear, I decided to supply some stats. In games when Kobe had at least 10 assists this past season, the Lakers went 4-1. This directly shows that when he gets his teammates involved, they respond by playing well and winning. Going back to the first accusation that is made, his team didn't respond in the playoffs as much due to all the inexperience. In fact, Los Angeles went only 1-2 in the postseason when Kobe dished out 10 assists or more. He's a team player when he needs to me, and that's good enough for me and it's good enough for the League MVP.
Accusation #3: "Kobe isn't a good leader."
This particular accusation probably irks Kobe the most. He leads by example. The examples he sets is one that I would expect. It is full of passion and desire which he achieves through playing hard and winning by any means neccessary. Some of the younger guys on the team have trouble responding to it. Others, such as Luke Walton, have been with Kobe for a little longer and understand what he's doing. Throughout this postseason, Walton was called out by Kobe on numerous occasions. What happened next? Walton began playing better and started helping the team more. That is just one of the many prime examples of how Bryant has led the Lakers.
The casual fans of the NBA wouldn't understand what his yelling and screaming at guys would do for the team. Nonetheless, as his teammates gain more experience and skill, they will begin to respond much better to what he says. On the flip side, Kobe is always the first to congratulate and praise his teammates for what they do right. He's the positive guy in the locker room, which is exactly what you want from your franchise player. Kobe is the best player in the NBA, bar none.
Case closed.
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Disclaimer: I am not liable for anything written in this blog. I am neither a diehard Lakers fan nor a Celtics hater. I feel compelled to give you the whole truth and nothing but it. Please do not hold anything against me for what you may or may not read here.
Accusation #1: "Kobe didn't deserve the MVP award."
That is ludicrous on every level. Kobe has been the best all-around player in the League for a couple years now. This year, however, he stepped up his team game. He was getting them the ball more often. The result? An NBA Finals appearance. However, in those six season-ending games, Kobe's teammates froze up. They suddenly were struggling at the most inopportune time. The Celtics' fantastic defense didn't help much either. Kobe always had a defender right on him, and as soon as he put the ball on the floor to make a move, another defender would be coming to help. Sometimes, it didn't work, like when Kobe dropped 36 in Los Angeles. Other times, it did.
Kobe's numbers were great as always, but what separated him from players such as Chris Paul and LeBron James was the fact that he led (yes, I use the term "led") his team to the #1 seed in an extremely tough conference that was chalk full of parity. To not give him the award would be an injustice. He earned it; he got it. Some have even gone as far as saying that Kobe got the award because the voters were afraid of the backlash if he didn't receive it. That statement is pure ignorance. The voters have long been receiving backlash for their choices so what would make this year any different?
Accusation #2: "Kobe isn't a team player."
This is the one that I have long had a problem with. You have to understand Kobe's personality I suppose. He wants to win above everything else. His desire and passion for the game is unparalleled by anyone in the NBA. Therefore, if it means he has to score 40 points for his team to win, he does it. If it means he has to share the ball and get his teammates involved, he does that, too. Now, some may not believe my last statement, but Kobe has done it before. Take a look at last year's FIBA World Championships. Kobe was playing alongside superstars such as LeBron and Carmelo. The result was exactly what I expected. He was among the team leaders in assists.
Since most readers don't believe what they hear, I decided to supply some stats. In games when Kobe had at least 10 assists this past season, the Lakers went 4-1. This directly shows that when he gets his teammates involved, they respond by playing well and winning. Going back to the first accusation that is made, his team didn't respond in the playoffs as much due to all the inexperience. In fact, Los Angeles went only 1-2 in the postseason when Kobe dished out 10 assists or more. He's a team player when he needs to me, and that's good enough for me and it's good enough for the League MVP.
Accusation #3: "Kobe isn't a good leader."
This particular accusation probably irks Kobe the most. He leads by example. The examples he sets is one that I would expect. It is full of passion and desire which he achieves through playing hard and winning by any means neccessary. Some of the younger guys on the team have trouble responding to it. Others, such as Luke Walton, have been with Kobe for a little longer and understand what he's doing. Throughout this postseason, Walton was called out by Kobe on numerous occasions. What happened next? Walton began playing better and started helping the team more. That is just one of the many prime examples of how Bryant has led the Lakers.
The casual fans of the NBA wouldn't understand what his yelling and screaming at guys would do for the team. Nonetheless, as his teammates gain more experience and skill, they will begin to respond much better to what he says. On the flip side, Kobe is always the first to congratulate and praise his teammates for what they do right. He's the positive guy in the locker room, which is exactly what you want from your franchise player. Kobe is the best player in the NBA, bar none.
Case closed.
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Monday, June 16, 2008
Can you hold this lead for me?
If you're the Los Angeles Lakers, you may have trouble fulfilling my request. Twice in a row, Kobe Bryant and the Lakers have come out on fire in the first quarter only to see the lead disappear before their very own eyes. In Game 4, their inability to hold the biggest 1st quarter-lead in Finals history was the reason they lost and headed into last night's game down 3-1. In Game 5, the Lakers posted an astounding 39 points in the 1st period of play on a remarkable 65% shooting percentage from the field. Leading the attack for LA was the MVP, Kobe Bryant, with 15 first quarter-points which featured 4 three-pointers. All seemed well at the Staples Center.
However, watching the game, I had my doubts. Kobe was shooting lights-out, but that's just it. How long could he sustain this spectacular shooting? His rest at the start of the second quarter helped fuel a run made by the Celtics. He then re-entered the game with about nine minutes to go in the half. He was coming in cold though, which posed a major problem for the Lakers, in my opinion. Not surprisingly, Kobe struggled with his shot in the entire second quarter and the Celtics came within three points at the half. In fact, Paul Pierce, the star of this year's playoffs, had as many points in the second period as the entire Lakers team combined.
The third quarter of games has been dominated by the Boston Celtics in this series. The Lakers are always outplayed and outhustled for some reason. Game 5 saw a dramatic change. With roughly nine and a half minutes to play in the quarter, Kobe Bryant converted on an old-fashioned three-point play which was the start to a 14-5 run by the Lakers. They ended the third quarter on a 22-11 run. This game was different and after Kobe's crew responded, I knew the Celtics would not win.
The fourth and final quarter saw a flurry of scoring by both Pierce and Sam Cassell, who scored seven points in less than two minutes of game time. For LA, everyone was contributing, which was yet another sign that the Celtics would not be celebrating the series win just yet. At any rate, the game came down to free throws. Boston missed theirs; LA did just the opposite as the Lake Show took Game 5 with a 103-98 win.
Pierce had 38 points and 8 assists while battling foul trouble and was easily the most valuable player on the court for Boston. Kobe, after the hot start to the game, scored only ten points in the final 36 minutes of play, including a stretch of 15 minutes in which he was scoreless. Leon Powe, who replaced the injured Kendrick Perkins in the starting lineup, was a complete non-factor in the game scoring zero points in only five minutes of play. Kevin Garnett, who was in serious foul trouble for most of the first half, struggled with his scoring and was a paltry 1-for-4 from the charity stripe.
For the Lakers, Lamar Odom had his second good game in a row with 20 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Pau Gasol also had a good game. Nevertheless, I'm still less than convinced about this guy. He's the biggest player on the floor most of the time, yet he plays so weak. I firmly believe that KG's being in foul trouble and Perkins's injury were the reasons he had a good game scoring-wise.
Looking ahead, Kobe Bryant needs to establish himself in the remaining games in a different way than he has. He either focuses too much on his penetration or too much on his shooting. He either concentrates too much on his facilitating of the team or his scoring. If the Lakers want to win the crown, they absolutely must have Kobe Bryant find a happy medium between these. He should first drive the lane which will open everything else up for his shooting. Bryant can't rely on one or the other all the time.
That being said, I would like to commend the Boston Celtics on being one of the finest defensive teams I've seen in the NBA. If not for the 65% shooting by LA in the first quarter, Boston easily keeps the Lakers under 90 points. They have been playing tougher defense than Kobe has seen in his entire playing career, which could be the main factor as to why he is struggling. I'll take the Celtics in six games. Los Angeles is too inconsistent.
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However, watching the game, I had my doubts. Kobe was shooting lights-out, but that's just it. How long could he sustain this spectacular shooting? His rest at the start of the second quarter helped fuel a run made by the Celtics. He then re-entered the game with about nine minutes to go in the half. He was coming in cold though, which posed a major problem for the Lakers, in my opinion. Not surprisingly, Kobe struggled with his shot in the entire second quarter and the Celtics came within three points at the half. In fact, Paul Pierce, the star of this year's playoffs, had as many points in the second period as the entire Lakers team combined.
The third quarter of games has been dominated by the Boston Celtics in this series. The Lakers are always outplayed and outhustled for some reason. Game 5 saw a dramatic change. With roughly nine and a half minutes to play in the quarter, Kobe Bryant converted on an old-fashioned three-point play which was the start to a 14-5 run by the Lakers. They ended the third quarter on a 22-11 run. This game was different and after Kobe's crew responded, I knew the Celtics would not win.
The fourth and final quarter saw a flurry of scoring by both Pierce and Sam Cassell, who scored seven points in less than two minutes of game time. For LA, everyone was contributing, which was yet another sign that the Celtics would not be celebrating the series win just yet. At any rate, the game came down to free throws. Boston missed theirs; LA did just the opposite as the Lake Show took Game 5 with a 103-98 win.
Pierce had 38 points and 8 assists while battling foul trouble and was easily the most valuable player on the court for Boston. Kobe, after the hot start to the game, scored only ten points in the final 36 minutes of play, including a stretch of 15 minutes in which he was scoreless. Leon Powe, who replaced the injured Kendrick Perkins in the starting lineup, was a complete non-factor in the game scoring zero points in only five minutes of play. Kevin Garnett, who was in serious foul trouble for most of the first half, struggled with his scoring and was a paltry 1-for-4 from the charity stripe.
For the Lakers, Lamar Odom had his second good game in a row with 20 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Pau Gasol also had a good game. Nevertheless, I'm still less than convinced about this guy. He's the biggest player on the floor most of the time, yet he plays so weak. I firmly believe that KG's being in foul trouble and Perkins's injury were the reasons he had a good game scoring-wise.
Looking ahead, Kobe Bryant needs to establish himself in the remaining games in a different way than he has. He either focuses too much on his penetration or too much on his shooting. He either concentrates too much on his facilitating of the team or his scoring. If the Lakers want to win the crown, they absolutely must have Kobe Bryant find a happy medium between these. He should first drive the lane which will open everything else up for his shooting. Bryant can't rely on one or the other all the time.
That being said, I would like to commend the Boston Celtics on being one of the finest defensive teams I've seen in the NBA. If not for the 65% shooting by LA in the first quarter, Boston easily keeps the Lakers under 90 points. They have been playing tougher defense than Kobe has seen in his entire playing career, which could be the main factor as to why he is struggling. I'll take the Celtics in six games. Los Angeles is too inconsistent.
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Thursday, June 5, 2008
The Seven Best from the NBA's Marquee Rivalry
From the days of Russell and Cousy against Baylor and West to the fierce battles of Kareem and Magic versus Bird and McHale. So many great players and so much tradition shrouds this series with all of the hype. Quite frankly, I am sick of hearing this and that about the upcoming NBA Championship. So I decided that I will dig deep into the past, which is somewhat difficult to me considering I wasn't even alive in '87 when they met in the Finals last. Without any further adieu, I give you the five best players to ever play in the NBA's best rivalry...
7. John Havlicek- He was a Celtic for life and now has his number hanging in the rafters. "Hondo" was a 13-time All-Star, who was ranked #15 on SLAM's Top NBA Players of All Time list. He was also a very clutch player that battled toe-to-toe with Jerry West. Havlicek had the luxury of playing in five Lakers/Celtics finals throughout his career.
Career Stats: 20.8 ppg, 13.5 rpg, 4.3 apg, 43% FG, 78% FT
6. Wilt Chamberlain- Some would wonder why he is down so low but you can't forget that his entire career was not spent in Los Angeles. By the time he played for the Lakers, his scoring ability had dropped off tremendously yet remained a dominant rebounder. Wilt the Stilt played in only one Lakers/Celtics finals, which took place in 1969 in an epic showdown between the Cinderella Celtics (they were a 4-seed that year) and the dominant Lakers.
Stats w/ LA (5 seasons): 19.3 ppg, 19.1 rpg, 4.3 apg, 62% FG, 47% FT (blocks were not recorded)
5. Jerry West- Mr. Clutch played against Boston in six NBA Finals appearances yet walked away without a ring. He was, however, named the Finals MVP in '69 despite the losing effort put forth by the Lakers. West was a prolific scorer with a very solid all-around game back then. He was a 13-time All-Star and a 10-time All-NBA First-Teamer.
Career Stats: 27.0 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 6.7 apg, 47% FG, 81% FT (no 3-point line)
4. Bill Russell- One of the greatest defenders in NBA history and was an 11-time NBA Champion, winning seven titles by defeating the Lakers in the Finals. He is a 12-time All-Star and a 5-time NBA MVP award winner. He is widely considered a top ten player to ever play the game, yet he is #4 on this storied and legendary list of players.
Career Stats: 15.1 ppg, 22.5 rpg, 4.3 apg, 44% FG, 56% FT (blocks were not recorded)
3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar- He is widely considered one of the best big men of all-time and a top 10 player ever. Kareem also invented the Skyhook, his signature move that no defender could get a piece of. He was a 6-time NBA MVP award winner and a 2-time NBA Finals MVP. Abdul-Jabbar was also a symbol of longevity because he played into his early forties which is remarkable for a big man. Nonetheless, it was tough to give him a nod over the top two players on this list that gave the rivalry its credibility.
Career Stats: 24.6 ppg, 11.2 rpg, 3.6 apg, 56% FG, 72% FT, 2.6 bpg
2. Larry Bird- Larry Legend, as some call him, was one half of the NBA's greatest individual rivalry that was ever established. He catapulted the Lakers and Celtics to new heights. Without him, all the nostalgia going around right now and this blog itself would not even exist. He was one of the best shooters ever and could rebound and pass pretty well, too. Bird was also clutch with his performances. He stepped up when it mattered most. All of these reasons culminated into his beating out Kareem for the #2 spot on my list.
Career Stats: 24.3 ppg, 10.0 rpg, 6.3 apg, 50% FG, 38% 3P, 1.7 spg
1. Magic Johnson- Did you really expect it to be anyone else? The leader of the Showtime Lakers and the most exciting player in the game at the time falls on my list at #1. If you couldn't tell, he is the other half of that fantastic individual rivalry I mentioned earlier. Every single time Magic stepped on the floor, he created a mismatch. He was a point guard in a big man's body which allowed him to, basically, do whatever he wanted out on the court. Johnson was the definition a human highlight reel.
Career Stats: 19.5 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 11.2 apg, 52% FG, 30% 3P, 1.9 spg
Honorable Mention (in no order): Bob Cousy, Elgin Baylor, James Worthy.
There it is. The seven greatest players to ever appear in the best NBA rivalry. Most of us can only hope that Kobe, Kevin Garnett, and Paul Pierce will be competing for those same spots in five years. The Celtics are up 1-0 and, in my opinion, this next game is a must-win for the Lakers. They positively need to split a game in Boston if they want any chance at salvaging this series.
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Poll Results: 66% of voters believe the Phoenix Suns are in more trouble than the Dallas Mavericks.
7. John Havlicek- He was a Celtic for life and now has his number hanging in the rafters. "Hondo" was a 13-time All-Star, who was ranked #15 on SLAM's Top NBA Players of All Time list. He was also a very clutch player that battled toe-to-toe with Jerry West. Havlicek had the luxury of playing in five Lakers/Celtics finals throughout his career.
Career Stats: 20.8 ppg, 13.5 rpg, 4.3 apg, 43% FG, 78% FT
6. Wilt Chamberlain- Some would wonder why he is down so low but you can't forget that his entire career was not spent in Los Angeles. By the time he played for the Lakers, his scoring ability had dropped off tremendously yet remained a dominant rebounder. Wilt the Stilt played in only one Lakers/Celtics finals, which took place in 1969 in an epic showdown between the Cinderella Celtics (they were a 4-seed that year) and the dominant Lakers.
Stats w/ LA (5 seasons): 19.3 ppg, 19.1 rpg, 4.3 apg, 62% FG, 47% FT (blocks were not recorded)
5. Jerry West- Mr. Clutch played against Boston in six NBA Finals appearances yet walked away without a ring. He was, however, named the Finals MVP in '69 despite the losing effort put forth by the Lakers. West was a prolific scorer with a very solid all-around game back then. He was a 13-time All-Star and a 10-time All-NBA First-Teamer.
Career Stats: 27.0 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 6.7 apg, 47% FG, 81% FT (no 3-point line)
4. Bill Russell- One of the greatest defenders in NBA history and was an 11-time NBA Champion, winning seven titles by defeating the Lakers in the Finals. He is a 12-time All-Star and a 5-time NBA MVP award winner. He is widely considered a top ten player to ever play the game, yet he is #4 on this storied and legendary list of players.
Career Stats: 15.1 ppg, 22.5 rpg, 4.3 apg, 44% FG, 56% FT (blocks were not recorded)
3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar- He is widely considered one of the best big men of all-time and a top 10 player ever. Kareem also invented the Skyhook, his signature move that no defender could get a piece of. He was a 6-time NBA MVP award winner and a 2-time NBA Finals MVP. Abdul-Jabbar was also a symbol of longevity because he played into his early forties which is remarkable for a big man. Nonetheless, it was tough to give him a nod over the top two players on this list that gave the rivalry its credibility.
Career Stats: 24.6 ppg, 11.2 rpg, 3.6 apg, 56% FG, 72% FT, 2.6 bpg
2. Larry Bird- Larry Legend, as some call him, was one half of the NBA's greatest individual rivalry that was ever established. He catapulted the Lakers and Celtics to new heights. Without him, all the nostalgia going around right now and this blog itself would not even exist. He was one of the best shooters ever and could rebound and pass pretty well, too. Bird was also clutch with his performances. He stepped up when it mattered most. All of these reasons culminated into his beating out Kareem for the #2 spot on my list.
Career Stats: 24.3 ppg, 10.0 rpg, 6.3 apg, 50% FG, 38% 3P, 1.7 spg
1. Magic Johnson- Did you really expect it to be anyone else? The leader of the Showtime Lakers and the most exciting player in the game at the time falls on my list at #1. If you couldn't tell, he is the other half of that fantastic individual rivalry I mentioned earlier. Every single time Magic stepped on the floor, he created a mismatch. He was a point guard in a big man's body which allowed him to, basically, do whatever he wanted out on the court. Johnson was the definition a human highlight reel.
Career Stats: 19.5 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 11.2 apg, 52% FG, 30% 3P, 1.9 spg
Honorable Mention (in no order): Bob Cousy, Elgin Baylor, James Worthy.
There it is. The seven greatest players to ever appear in the best NBA rivalry. Most of us can only hope that Kobe, Kevin Garnett, and Paul Pierce will be competing for those same spots in five years. The Celtics are up 1-0 and, in my opinion, this next game is a must-win for the Lakers. They positively need to split a game in Boston if they want any chance at salvaging this series.
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Poll Results: 66% of voters believe the Phoenix Suns are in more trouble than the Dallas Mavericks.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Word on the NBA Street
Last night, I witnessed the greatest player since Jordan close out on of the best teams of this decade. I am, of course, referring to Kobe Bryant and the San Antonio Spurs, respectively. Tim Duncan had his fourth career triple-double with 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists which would have made news had Kobe not been...well, himself. Bryant finished with 39 points and scored 17 of them in the final period. He completely dominated and led his team back from being down 17 points in the first half.
To any average fan, it would seem as though Kobe was the one who fueled such a comeback. However, the average fan would be wrong. This comeback was ignited while Kobe, Derek Fisher, and Lamar Odom were on the bench. Jordan Farmar had a great game, showing viewers that he definitely has a future in this league, with eight points, three assists, and a steal in only 17 minutes of playing time. Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol helped out tremendously on the boards with eight and nineteen, respectively.
For the Spurs, they saw yet another tough game for Manu Ginobili. He was nursing a bum ankle while the Lakers forced him to use his off hand on penetration to the basket. The result? Nine points on 3-for-9 shooting from the field. Another problem, which is unusual for such an experienced team, has been their inability to close out games. They had a 20-point lead in Game 1 which they also ended up losing. I can only wonder what those "tweaks" Duncan was referring to after the game will be.
In the East (or Midwest for tonight's game), the Celtics will be looking to close out the Pistons on the road in Game 6. I firmly believe this game will be going the full seven games, and Detroit will win at home tonight. However, I do not see Boston losing at home in Game 7 so either way, all those nostalgic fans will get their wish and have a nice ol' Celtics/Lakers rematch that they've been waiting for.
The key for the Pistons is none other than Rasheed Wallace. I've said it all series long, and I'll reiterate it time and again. 'Sheed is essential if Detroit wants any hope at forcing a Game 7 back in Boston. He needs to bust his ass on defense and, also, to make Kevin Garnett work on both ends of the floor by taking it hard to the basket and becoming an offensive force. In their Game 5 heartbreaking loss, Wallace scored 18 points on 6-for-12 shooting, which is a good game for him. But he didn't play his hardest on the defensive end against Garnett. He allowed KG to score 33 points on 11-for-17 shooting which, in my mind, was the simple and direct reason Boston won.
Now I'll take you much farther south in this blog to the land of NBA superstar-hopefuls in Orlando, Florida, the home of the League's annual pre-draft camp. First, I'd like to congratulate the Bulls on their superior luckiness. Next, I'd like to point out that either choice, Michael Beasley or Derrick Rose, would at least help your franchise somewhat in the future. But, in my humble opinion, Rose is the better choice. This is a Chicago team that has been looking to ship Hinrich elsewhere in order to get someone that could fill their frontcourt void. If that goes through, Rose would be the floor general and playmaker that he has proven he can be. My mock draft goes as follows:
1. Derrick Rose, PG, Chicago Bulls
2. Michael Beasley, SF, Miami Heat
3. Brook Lopez, C, Minnesota Timberwolves
4. Jerryd Bayless, SG, Seattle SuperSonics
5. Kevin Love, PF, Memphis Grizzlies
6. OJ Mayo, SF, New York Knickerbockers
7. DeAndre Jordan, C, Los Angeles Clippers
8. Eric Gordon, SG, Milwaukee Bucks
9. Darrell Arthur, PF, Charlotte Bobcats
10. Russell Westbrook, PG, New Jersey Nets
I'm not completely sold on Anthony Randolph yet, and I'm not so sure many NBA scouts are either, which is why I have him going anywhere from 11-13. I also expect Gallinari to go somewhere in the 11-13 range as I'm not buying the whole Italian/D'Antoni connection with the Knicks. I would now like to warn NBA general managers of three draft busts although, sadly, 99% of GMs don't read my blog:
OJ Mayo- His many run-ins with the law is an obvious concern, but you can't forget his selfish and conceited decision-making that appears in his game from time to time. OJ can be very turnover-prone as well when he tries to do too much on the floor. All in all, there are way too many concerns and question marks about not only his game but also his image.
Roy Hibbert- All the success he has had thus far has been due to height and great teammates. He's not athletic and doesn't have the explosive first step to attack the rim in the post. When he plays against others of his size, he tends to be outplayed. Hibbert isn't a very good rebounder for being 7'2" and will struggle tremendously at the next level.
Donte Green- Many would be attracted by his athleticism and versatility. I, however, am not so easily fooled. His shot selection is downright terrible and, for as athletic as he is, Green doesn't get to the free throw line all that much. Finally and maybe most importantly, he's afraid of contact. In the NBA, the contact is ten times that of college.
I'd also be concerned with taking players such as Anthony Randolph, Eric Gordon, and Joe Alexander. The thing I love about the NBA Draft is that for every major bust, there is always that one great steal that no one sees coming. Well, almost no one. Here are my three "steals"...
Lester Hudson- This guy will most likely go down in college basketball history as "that guy from the mid-major school who recorded a quadruple-double". Nonetheless, he would be a perfect pick for the late first round. He can play both guard positions and put the ball in the hoop all the while making himself hard to guard.
Trent Plaisted- One of the premier big men in college this past season would be a great pick in the late first or early second round come draft day. He is a fantastic rebounder and a decent scorer even though he doesn't possess the athleticism and potential of someone like DeAndre Jordan. I find it difficult to believe NBADraft.net thinks he's just another Greg Foster.
JR Giddens- He's projected as a late second rounder but will do a lot better in the NBA than in college. His athleticism is out-of-this-world and plays tough on both ends of the floor. The only thing missing is the ability to attack the basket hard, which should be easy for NBA coaches to corral since he is such a phenomenal athlete.
So there you have it. Those are my views on the NBA world, from Los Angeles to Boston to Orlando and everywhere in between. Have a nice week and, hopefully, the Pistons can extend the series to seven games tonight.
----- -----
To any average fan, it would seem as though Kobe was the one who fueled such a comeback. However, the average fan would be wrong. This comeback was ignited while Kobe, Derek Fisher, and Lamar Odom were on the bench. Jordan Farmar had a great game, showing viewers that he definitely has a future in this league, with eight points, three assists, and a steal in only 17 minutes of playing time. Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol helped out tremendously on the boards with eight and nineteen, respectively.
For the Spurs, they saw yet another tough game for Manu Ginobili. He was nursing a bum ankle while the Lakers forced him to use his off hand on penetration to the basket. The result? Nine points on 3-for-9 shooting from the field. Another problem, which is unusual for such an experienced team, has been their inability to close out games. They had a 20-point lead in Game 1 which they also ended up losing. I can only wonder what those "tweaks" Duncan was referring to after the game will be.
In the East (or Midwest for tonight's game), the Celtics will be looking to close out the Pistons on the road in Game 6. I firmly believe this game will be going the full seven games, and Detroit will win at home tonight. However, I do not see Boston losing at home in Game 7 so either way, all those nostalgic fans will get their wish and have a nice ol' Celtics/Lakers rematch that they've been waiting for.
The key for the Pistons is none other than Rasheed Wallace. I've said it all series long, and I'll reiterate it time and again. 'Sheed is essential if Detroit wants any hope at forcing a Game 7 back in Boston. He needs to bust his ass on defense and, also, to make Kevin Garnett work on both ends of the floor by taking it hard to the basket and becoming an offensive force. In their Game 5 heartbreaking loss, Wallace scored 18 points on 6-for-12 shooting, which is a good game for him. But he didn't play his hardest on the defensive end against Garnett. He allowed KG to score 33 points on 11-for-17 shooting which, in my mind, was the simple and direct reason Boston won.
Now I'll take you much farther south in this blog to the land of NBA superstar-hopefuls in Orlando, Florida, the home of the League's annual pre-draft camp. First, I'd like to congratulate the Bulls on their superior luckiness. Next, I'd like to point out that either choice, Michael Beasley or Derrick Rose, would at least help your franchise somewhat in the future. But, in my humble opinion, Rose is the better choice. This is a Chicago team that has been looking to ship Hinrich elsewhere in order to get someone that could fill their frontcourt void. If that goes through, Rose would be the floor general and playmaker that he has proven he can be. My mock draft goes as follows:
1. Derrick Rose, PG, Chicago Bulls
2. Michael Beasley, SF, Miami Heat
3. Brook Lopez, C, Minnesota Timberwolves
4. Jerryd Bayless, SG, Seattle SuperSonics
5. Kevin Love, PF, Memphis Grizzlies
6. OJ Mayo, SF, New York Knickerbockers
7. DeAndre Jordan, C, Los Angeles Clippers
8. Eric Gordon, SG, Milwaukee Bucks
9. Darrell Arthur, PF, Charlotte Bobcats
10. Russell Westbrook, PG, New Jersey Nets
I'm not completely sold on Anthony Randolph yet, and I'm not so sure many NBA scouts are either, which is why I have him going anywhere from 11-13. I also expect Gallinari to go somewhere in the 11-13 range as I'm not buying the whole Italian/D'Antoni connection with the Knicks. I would now like to warn NBA general managers of three draft busts although, sadly, 99% of GMs don't read my blog:
OJ Mayo- His many run-ins with the law is an obvious concern, but you can't forget his selfish and conceited decision-making that appears in his game from time to time. OJ can be very turnover-prone as well when he tries to do too much on the floor. All in all, there are way too many concerns and question marks about not only his game but also his image.
Roy Hibbert- All the success he has had thus far has been due to height and great teammates. He's not athletic and doesn't have the explosive first step to attack the rim in the post. When he plays against others of his size, he tends to be outplayed. Hibbert isn't a very good rebounder for being 7'2" and will struggle tremendously at the next level.
Donte Green- Many would be attracted by his athleticism and versatility. I, however, am not so easily fooled. His shot selection is downright terrible and, for as athletic as he is, Green doesn't get to the free throw line all that much. Finally and maybe most importantly, he's afraid of contact. In the NBA, the contact is ten times that of college.
I'd also be concerned with taking players such as Anthony Randolph, Eric Gordon, and Joe Alexander. The thing I love about the NBA Draft is that for every major bust, there is always that one great steal that no one sees coming. Well, almost no one. Here are my three "steals"...
Lester Hudson- This guy will most likely go down in college basketball history as "that guy from the mid-major school who recorded a quadruple-double". Nonetheless, he would be a perfect pick for the late first round. He can play both guard positions and put the ball in the hoop all the while making himself hard to guard.
Trent Plaisted- One of the premier big men in college this past season would be a great pick in the late first or early second round come draft day. He is a fantastic rebounder and a decent scorer even though he doesn't possess the athleticism and potential of someone like DeAndre Jordan. I find it difficult to believe NBADraft.net thinks he's just another Greg Foster.
JR Giddens- He's projected as a late second rounder but will do a lot better in the NBA than in college. His athleticism is out-of-this-world and plays tough on both ends of the floor. The only thing missing is the ability to attack the basket hard, which should be easy for NBA coaches to corral since he is such a phenomenal athlete.
So there you have it. Those are my views on the NBA world, from Los Angeles to Boston to Orlando and everywhere in between. Have a nice week and, hopefully, the Pistons can extend the series to seven games tonight.
----- -----
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Pardon Our Incoherence
This is a brand-new blog created on FanNation.com by myself and another member of the site, CavaBearDians. I hope you enjoy our sports banter. On a side note, this is the edited version of our show.
IT's HERE!
We promised you all a great show, and we have it. It's PTI, the first-ever edition on FanNation! Read as GOAT and I (CavaBearDians) take on some of the sports world's hottest topics.
(All times given in CST)
Cava (5:48:16 PM): WAIT!!!!
GOAT (5:48:20 PM): what?
Cava (5:48:21 PM): we have no name yet
Cava (5:48:55 PM): Hairy Brown Goat
GOAT (5:49:01 PM): no thats not our name
Cava (5:49:06 PM): i was kidding
GOAT (5:49:50 PM): what about Pardon the Interaction?
Cava (5:50:03 PM): Pardon the Incoherence
Cava (5:50:04 PM): YES!
GOAT (5:50:08 PM): i like that
GOAT (5:50:11 PM): Incoherence
Cava (5:50:16 PM): alright
GOAT (5:50:28 PM): lets do this
Cava (5:50:35 PM): HEY!!
Cava (5:50:41 PM): And welcome to PTI. No, we're not Wilbon and Kornheiser.
GOAT (5:50:54 PM): I'm GOAT
Cava (5:50:57 PM): And I'm Cava.
Cava (5:51:08 PM): And this is PARDON THE INCOHERENCE. We're the craziest blog you'll ever read, and the best ESPN knockoff, too.
GOAT (5:51:36 PM): Even if we don't make sense half the time.
Cava (5:51:43 PM): I'm brown, and he's a goat.
GOAT (5:52:00 PM): Fair enough. Let's get started with today's topics.
Cava (5:52:18 PM): Our first segment is called Quick Hits. Quick Hits is like PTI's rundown.We cover 5 topics in 25 minutes.
Cava (5:53:15 PM): 25 on the clock…
GOAT (5:54:30 PM): Well, our first topic is the NBA Playoffs. After the Spurs gave up a huge lead in Game 1 and got manhandled in Game 2, they came home to the Alamo City where they defeated the Lakers quite easily to put the series at 2-1.
Cava (5:55:16 PM): And on the other side of the country, the Celtics overcome their road woes, while the pistons break the Celtics hot streak at home, and we have quite a series in the ECF.
GOAT (5:55:37 PM): So, Cava, who do you like in these matchups?
Cava (5:55:47 PM): I'm bitter from last year, so I have the Lakers; I honestly think the Lakers can do this. You?
GOAT (5:56:47 PM): I'm taking the Lakers as well. They won't just lie down after going up 2 games to none like the Hornets did. This is a Lakers team that has some experience in the postseason with Derek Fisher and Kobe Bryant.
Cava (5:57:16 PM): Let's put it this way--if Kobe can play his game and share the ball, the Lakers go all the way.
GOAT (5:57:37 PM): Gotcha.
Cava (5:57:54 PM): Tell me about the ECF.
GOAT (5:58:58 PM): The Celtics finally won a game on the road. However, they also lost one in the Garden. The Pistons defense was terrible in the last few games, but I see them turning it around to take the series.
Cava (5:59:11 PM): Alrighty, so we both take the Lakers, and we’ll talk more about the rest a bit later.
Cava (5:59:18 PM): For our next topic we have the Mets.
GOAT (5:59:33 PM): If I might add, Rondo is the main problem for Boston. He doesn't make good decisions out there.
GOAT (5:59:38 PM): Continue, Cava.
Cava (5:59:56 PM): [glares] Willie Randolph stated earlier this week that he was viewed differently from white managers. How do you feel about this?
GOAT (6:00:35 PM): Well, I think he finally spoke his mind. I don't buy his apology at all. He was definitely put under pressure to make a public apology like he did. Do you think it was sincere?
Cava (6:00:49 PM): I don't know about the apology. I'm sure he was sorry, but for the right reasons? I don't know. But I think there's a bigger issue here. Randolph plays the race card. I hate when that happens--it cheapens what a problem racism really is.
Cava (6:02:05 PM): But at the same time, the Mets were rumored to have wanted to fire him--how do you feel about that?
GOAT (6:02:09 PM): He did play the race card and that probably wasn't the best approach, but I'm positive we all know that racism is still very prevalent in our country today. However, it would be a VERY bad idea for the Mets to fire him.
Cava (6:02:47 PM): I agree, the Mets shouldn't fire him.
Cava (6:03:33 PM): OK, let's move on. What's next, GOAT?
GOAT (6:04:14 PM): Next on our list of topics is the bad behavior of NFL players. It seems as though we read about a new athlete every day from the NFL who runs into trouble with the law. Your thoughts on this?
Cava (6:04:28 PM): First we had Cedric Benson, now Vince Young. Going back we had the whole Bengals' organization—it’s ridiculous.
GOAT (6:04:51 PM): And you can't forget about those ongoing problems such as Pacman Jones and Michael Vick.
Cava (6:04:57 PM): Of course.
GOAT (6:05:06 PM): As a whole, the League is having an image problem.
Cava (6:05:22 PM): We have real thugs, i.e. Pacman and Chris Henry, and then some not-so-real thugs like Vince Young and Ced Benson
GOAT (6:05:44 PM): As a Steelers fan, I appreciate your shots at the Bengals, by the way.
Cava (6:05:51 PM): I'm a Cleveland guy, so it's a fine line. Make the world a better place, punch a Steeler’s fan in the face…
GOAT (6:05:58 PM): But yeah, a couple pictures at a party never hurt anyone.
Cava (6:06:04 PM): Exactly. The guy was having a drink. And he was shirtless. People are always drinking. And they're always shirtless.
GOAT (6:06:31 PM): However, Goodell has to get the players on board with him so that the NFL doesn't continue tumbling downhill with stories such as these ones that keep surfacing.
Cava (6:06:36 PM): Heck, I bet half of you reading this are shirtless…
Cava (6:06:40 PM): If not pantless.
GOAT (6:06:52 PM): I swear I'm not.
Cava (6:06:53 PM): If the shoe fits, wear it.
GOAT (6:06:55 PM): Really, I'm not
Cava (6:06:59 PM): Riiiight…
Cava (6:07:09 PM): Goodell has been good. Still, he can make rules and punishments, but he can't force people to act a certain way. I'm serious when i say this--the NFL should have a definite policy--felonies mean you're out. Full-out ban, Pacman style.
GOAT (6:07:52 PM): I understand that, but they are giving a new meaning to the term "Rules are made to be broken."
Cava (6:08:09 PM): For misdemeanors, three strikes, you're out.
GOAT (6:08:16 PM): I agree with you there. Stricter penalties should reduce off-the-field problems.
Cava (6:08:22 PM): And for being a dillweed, you get to be ridiculed by the public.
GOAT (6:08:35 PM): Definitely.
Cava (6:08:41 PM): Less people commit a crime if you take something that matters to them.
GOAT (6:09:04 PM): Even though most are ridiculed already. (I'm talking to you, Mr. Owens)
Cava (6:09:20 PM): We'll leave it at that.
GOAT (6:34:32 PM): Anyway, what's our next topic?
Cava (6:34:43 PM): With ten minutes to go, the NBA Draft.
GOAT (6:35:00 PM): Ah, yes. How about the luck of the Bulls?
Cava (6:35:19 PM): They had a 1.7% chance of winning the draw, and the SOB’s did it.
GOAT (6:35:26 PM): Who should they take with the first pick?
Cava (6:35:38 PM): Does it matter? No matter who the Bulls draft, no matter how high, he ends up sucking.
Cava (6:36:13 PM): Now of course, they've had some hits, a la Michael Jordan, who was decent.
GOAT (6:36:20 PM): Yeah, I somewhat agree, but both Beasley and Rose have tremendous potential.
Cava (6:36:27 PM): Right
GOAT (6:36:32 PM): In this situation though, I'd take Derrick Rose.
Cava (6:36:34 PM): I'm a Beasley fan myself. You have to realize what the Bulls have.
GOAT (6:36:52 PM): There are trade rumors for Hinrich and with him gone, they will need Rose.
Cava (6:37:08 PM): If Hinrich leaves, then I’m ready to say Rose. But right now, they have a slew of at least decent guards. Ben Gordon is solid. Hinirich is decent. And I like Duhon.
GOAT (6:37:12 PM): Hopefully, they can get a interior offensive presence for him.
GOAT (6:37:38 PM): But not based on the team's needs, who do you think will have a better career: Beasley or Rose?
Cava (6:37:50 PM): Beasley for sure. He's the most talented player in this draft. The question is, what do the bulls want
GOAT (6:38:18 PM): Now, I doubt that. He is underweight for a 6-9 guy and will have trouble banging in the post as a power forward unless he develops some serious bulk.
Cava (6:38:31 PM): What if goes as a 3?
GOAT (6:38:55 PM): He's not so good a scorer as a 3 than as a 4.
Cava (6:39:01 PM): Imagine the lineup of Hinrich, Gordon, Beasley, Deng, and Noah. It's not too bad.
GOAT (6:39:12 PM): That's a small lineup though.
Cava (6:39:19 PM): They can play him as a big SF, and he can abuse the matchups. It is a small lineup, but Noah is the biggest the Bulls have. The Bulls are a small team.
GOAT (6:40:00 PM): Let's hypothesize, who would guard Dwight Howard or Kevin Garnett? Noah? He would be killed.
Cava (6:40:06 PM): They can’t. We already know. But Rose sure won't do it.
GOAT (6:40:21 PM): That is just more reason to trade Hinrich for someone in the post.
Cava (6:40:24 PM): Sure, but who can they get? Anderson Varejao may be on the market.
GOAT (6:40:45 PM): Eh...they would need to find a team in need of a point guard.
GOAT (6:40:52 PM): Who do you have going as the third pick?
Cava (6:41:07 PM): But I think at the third pick, Augustin wouldn't be bad, or Brooke Lopez. But remember-- I'm not too hot on draft topics, as I'm not a huge NCAA follower.
GOAT (6:42:54 PM): Lopez is the right choice in my opinion. Augustin going third is a little high for an undersized point guard, in my opinion.
Cava (6:43:00 PM): Sure, but he's very talented.
Cava (6:43:07 PM): Anyways, last topic for quick hits, as we near the end of time.
Cava (6:43:36 PM): SPYGATE!
GOAT (6:43:38 PM): As long as they don't take Mayo, they are fine. Let's just say I have some serious doubts about not only his play on the court but also his decisions off it.
Cava (6:43:47 PM): It won't go away, will it?
GOAT (6:43:56 PM): The media is blowing it way out of proportion now.
Cava (6:44:02 PM): Agreed. The issue is that the Pats DID cheat, but we all know that.
GOAT (6:44:22 PM): Just let it go. It won't happen again; the Pats have been penalized.
Cava (6:44:27 PM): But Goodell wants to pass the issue.
GOAT (6:44:39 PM): As he should, it is only further hurting his league.
Cava (6:44:41 PM): But we also know they cheated in the SB against the Rams. What can we do about it? Nothing.
GOAT (6:45:03 PM): Do you think Matt Walsh should take responsibility for his videotaping of the signals? Or is the Patriots' organization's fault?
Cava (6:45:19 PM): Pats are at fault. The other problem is, Senator Arlen Specter, an Eagles fan, keeps bringing it up.
GOAT (6:45:34 PM): Yeah, Specter has no business in this matter.
Cava (6:46:05 PM): Any last words?
GOAT (6:46:26 PM): I disagree with you. It is partially Matt Walsh's fault, too. As Mike & Mike in the Morning said, why would he keep these tapes from so long ago unless he was planning to reveal them to somewhat blackmail the Patriots?
Cava (6:46:39 PM): He wasn't planning jack…
GOAT (6:46:45 PM): It's ridiculous. He obviously knew what he was doing was wrong.
Cava (6:46:49 PM): He was forced to come out and reveal the truth. And he was paid by the Patriots, so why would rat on them right away?
GOAT (6:47:08 PM): He should have either revealed the truth as it was happening or just to let it go. Not now.
Cava (6:47:23 PM): We'll agree to disagreee.
Cava (6:47:30 PM): We're out of time on quick hits, a bit past actually. GOAT, tell them about our next segment
GOAT (6:50:47 PM): Buy or Sell, the game that was made famous by Around the Horn. Our first topic is Jason Taylor: Dolphin in Week 1?
Cava (6:51:05 PM): I like Jason Taylor, but I have a feeling he'll stay with the fins. I think Parcells is unreasonable. I’ll buy.
GOAT (6:52:18 PM): I'm buying that as well. Parcells is being a little ridiculous right now over it all, and it will settle down eventually. He will most definitely be in a Miami Dolphins uniform this season.
Cava (6:52:33 PM): If Parcells kept TO, he can keep Jason.
GOAT (6:52:46 PM): Good point. Haha.
Cava (6:52:53 PM): Buy or sell: Lakers-Celtics Finals.
GOAT (6:53:12 PM): Are you buying or selling this series reminiscent of something we would see in the 80s?
Cava (6:53:24 PM): I'm a buyer, too--both teams are truly amazing, and we'll have an instant classic. I'm assuming you buy. Am I right?
GOAT (6:55:06 PM): You're assuming wrong, buckethead. (Yeah, I went there.) The Celtics will not make the Finals. Their series is knotted up at 2 apiece right now and, as I mentioned earlier, Rajon Rondo is still making too many bad decisions on the court.
Cava (6:55:11 PM): Well, you know what happens when you assume. You make an ass out of you and me. The Celtics won't lose three games straight, and the Pistons will not win a game 7 in Boston.
GOAT (6:57:31 PM): The Pistons don't have to win three in a row. If they win tomorrow night, they'll have control of the series and a safe 3-2 lead.
Cava (6:58:24 PM): The Pistons need to win the next two games to win the series. I have to say it again: the Celtics won't be beaten in a game 7 at home
GOAT (6:59:07 PM): They don't necessarily need to. They've won in Boston before and they can do it again. They just have to make sure they take care of business at home in Game 6.
Cava (6:59:08 PM): And I just don't think the Pistons will win these two games.
GOAT (6:59:20 PM): Alright. Next topic.
Cava (6:59:21 PM): Game 7 is a whole new ballgame, my friend.
GOAT (6:59:33 PM): What do you got for us, Cava?
Cava (6:59:40 PM): Buy or sell? Brady Quinn starts for the Browns Week 1.
GOAT (7:00:01 PM): I'm selling it and fast.
Cava (7:00:06 PM): Why?
GOAT (7:00:29 PM): It's not going to happen.
Cava (7:00:33 PM): It is (I'm buying). The Browns gave up too much and pay him too much for him to ride the bench. I predict Derek Anderson will either be gone, or he'll be very unhappy on the bench, come week 1.
GOAT (7:01:19 PM): Money doesn't guarantee playing time.
Cava (7:01:24 PM): Truth. Still, there's a connection.
GOAT (7:02:02 PM): I guess, but the Browns will play the QB that will win them games, not who they are paying the most money.
Cava (7:02:12 PM): True again. So we'll just move on.
Cava (7:02:20 PM): Buy or sell--and we'll do them together, since they're related: Indians make the playoffs and Yankees make the playoffs.
GOAT (7:02:47 PM): I'm selling both. And I know you're at least buying the Indians. *coughhomercough* I know this may sound dumb, but I'm saying the A's grab the wild card.
Cava (7:03:25 PM): I buy the Tribe, sell the Yankees. The Tribe are in a crazy division. The White Sox can't play this well with this little talent for this long.
GOAT (7:03:54 PM): Yes, but the Indians are 1-9 in their last ten games!!!
Cava (7:04:07 PM): But the Tribe can't play this bad with this much talent for this long. They're very talented, but they're on a team slump.
GOAT (7:04:39 PM): Well, right now they are. Their starting rotation is great, but their offense is in a major slump right now.
Cava (7:04:45 PM): I agree. But we'll get out of it.
GOAT (7:04:59 PM): Keep telling yourself that.
Cava (7:05:08 PM): And the Yankees won't get in, because the Red Sox and maybe even the Rays will. Either the Rays or ChiSox take the ALWC.
GOAT (7:05:24 PM): At least we agree the last-place Yankees are in dire need of Posada and are starting to regret the firing of Torre, right?
Cava (7:05:31 PM): Yeah. Plus, they're a team of aging stars.
GOAT (7:05:44 PM): I say the Rays falter and go back to being normal.
Cava (7:05:51 PM): Maybe, but my Sox picks are solid.
GOAT (7:06:05 PM): The Sox are the only ones out of the AL East playing in the postseason.
Cava (7:06:12 PM): Sure
GOAT (7:06:17 PM): Well, that concludes Buy or Sell.
Cava (7:06:20 PM): Yep.
GOAT (7:06:23 PM): Time for an old segment to come back to life. I am, of course, referring to Game-Planning. Some of you may remember it from my college basketball blog. Well, it's back, and in a somewhat different form.
Cava (7:07:08 PM): It sure is.
GOAT (7:07:16 PM): Our highlight game is the Pistons visiting the Celtics. Who do ya got for Game 5, Cava?
Cava (7:07:27 PM): Celtics.
GOAT (7:07:36 PM): I'll take the Pistons.
Cava (7:07:42 PM): I'll tell you the keys.
GOAT (7:07:52 PM): Let's hear ‘em then. [aside] This should be good.
Cava (7:07:59 PM): The Celtics need to make their shots, because they don't come easy at all.
GOAT (7:08:11 PM): Not in the East, they don't. They wonder why the games never get out of the 80s.
Cava (7:08:22 PM): The crowd needs to be crazy. KG needs to play the way he did against the Cavs.
GOAT (7:08:42 PM): So are you saying the Celtics are screwed for Game 6 on the road?
GOAT (7:08:55 PM): I'll give you the keys for Detroit now.
Cava (7:08:57 PM): I think between Ray Allen, KG, and Double-P, they need 65 points.
GOAT (7:09:11 PM): As you said, we need to make our shots. They shot horribly in their Game 3 blowout loss.
GOAT (7:09:35 PM): Next, Rasheed Wallace ABSOLUTELY HAS TO make KG work on the defensive end. He needs to attack the rim and wear Garnett down. Billups needs to assert his dominance as the better point guard, which he obviously is. But he hasn't always shown it this series.
Cava (7:10:09 PM): Yeah, but can he maintain discipline (I'm referring to Rasheed)
GOAT (7:10:41 PM): He better, or the Pistons are gone from the playoffs. He needs to keep his composure. Two more technicals and he has to sit a game.
Cava (7:10:54 PM): Well, the PG position is interesting. Rondo is young, and can be either brilliant or awful on any given day. Billups hasn't been playing to par.
GOAT (7:11:19 PM): I agree with both of your points.
Cava (7:11:20 PM): And Cassell has been rightfully benched. Bring him in for big shots, otherwise, ride it, sucka.
GOAT (7:11:31 PM): Cassell was an unneeded asset to the team.
GOAT (7:11:45 PM): Unneeded asset. That's an oxymoron if I ever saw one.
Cava (7:11:58 PM): You put the moron in oxymoron. Moron.
GOAT (7:12:12 PM): Moving on...
Cava (7:12:20 PM): This is my segment from my SIFS blog. You may remember Game Balls and Lame Balls.
GOAT (7:12:44 PM): I do.
Cava (7:12:50 PM): It's our last segment tonight, and it goes like this. We'll each pick one or so concept, person, or team from sports. One that was good (Game) and the other that sucked (Lame).
Cava (7:14:01 PM): So without further adieu, GOAT, name your Lame Ball.
GOAT (7:14:12 PM): Jenna Jameson has made quite the career off it. I would hardly consider it lame, but I digress…
GOAT (7:14:52 PM): My lame ball goes to Joakim Noah. I mean, how dumb can you be?
Cava (7:15:01 PM): Pretty dumb, I guess.
GOAT (7:15:01 PM): I'd also like to give a co-lame ball to Danica Patrick.
Cava (7:15:08 PM): Impressive. Lame Tire maybe?
GOAT (7:15:21 PM): She's a pro athlete, yet acts like a 5-year-old with her temper tantrums.
Cava (7:15:34 PM): I think she had a right to be ticked.
GOAT (7:15:35 PM): Grow up and act like a responsible adult, Danica!
Cava (7:15:43 PM): She reads this blog, so I'm sure she’ll obey.
GOAT (7:15:48 PM): No need to act the way she did.
Cava (7:15:56 PM): She didn't actually DO anything.
GOAT (7:15:59 PM): Who does your Lame Ball go to?
Cava (7:16:05 PM): My Lame Ball has to go to idiot umpires. I mean, are you SERIOUS?! They miss 3 homerun calls in a pretty short timespan. IDIOTS!
GOAT (7:19:58 PM): Quite idiotic.
Cava (7:20:06 PM): Indeed. But like you, I'll co-Lame Ball this.
GOAT (7:20:23 PM): Be nice on the umps though, they are only human. It's not like they could replay the home run in their mind.
Cava (7:20:25 PM): I give one to the Indians offense. I mean, what the heck is going on here?
GOAT (7:20:53 PM): No argument here with the Indians. They are completely inept at hitting the baseball.
Cava (7:21:09 PM): We have the best rotation in baseball (yes, 'Zona fans, I said that) yet our offense...well, does what a Hoover does.
GOAT (7:21:31 PM): If it weren't for their pitching, they'd have the worst record in the MLB. Moving on to Game Balls. Who do you got?
Cava (7:21:37 PM): You go first.
GOAT (7:24:43 PM): Alright, I'll take Jon Lester. What a story he has made.
Cava (7:24:52 PM): Classy pick.
GOAT (7:25:25 PM): From all the problems he has had the last couple of years, this guy sure deserved it. He pitched a no-hitter, the 18th in Red Sox history, if my memory serves me.
GOAT (7:25:42 PM): Who are you taking?
Cava (7:27:02 PM): I'm gonna have to take David Ortiz.
GOAT (7:27:17 PM): He did publicly yell at the commish.
Cava (7:27:20 PM): It may sound like a weak pick, but I think it's important he speaks his mind. Selig is a loser.
GOAT (7:27:38 PM): I agree. Who calls a tie in an ASG?
Cava (7:27:50 PM): He's horrible at managing this league. He can't stop players from cheating, so he's going to try to mess with the pace of the game? What an idiot.
GOAT (7:28:14 PM): Add to the fact that he just banned Little Leagues from using Major League teams as the names of their teams.
Cava (7:28:26 PM): That's what I'm saying. Oritz gets a Game Ball for telling that man to shove it.
GOAT (7:28:43 PM): Good choice. Haha.
Cava (7:28:54 PM): ANNNNND that's our show.
Cava (7:29:01 PM): Hope you guys enjoyed it
GOAT (7:29:04 PM): That concludes the very first edition of what will hopefully be many editions of Pardon the Incoherence. Don't forget to send mail to either myself or Cava for our Mail Time segment, and for general suggestions on style, flow, and topics.
Cava (7:29:13 PM): This is Cava, rolling out
GOAT (7:30:01 PM): Have a nice week, peoples...
[clap clap clap]
IT's HERE!
We promised you all a great show, and we have it. It's PTI, the first-ever edition on FanNation! Read as GOAT and I (CavaBearDians) take on some of the sports world's hottest topics.
(All times given in CST)
Cava (5:48:16 PM): WAIT!!!!
GOAT (5:48:20 PM): what?
Cava (5:48:21 PM): we have no name yet
Cava (5:48:55 PM): Hairy Brown Goat
GOAT (5:49:01 PM): no thats not our name
Cava (5:49:06 PM): i was kidding
GOAT (5:49:50 PM): what about Pardon the Interaction?
Cava (5:50:03 PM): Pardon the Incoherence
Cava (5:50:04 PM): YES!
GOAT (5:50:08 PM): i like that
GOAT (5:50:11 PM): Incoherence
Cava (5:50:16 PM): alright
GOAT (5:50:28 PM): lets do this
Cava (5:50:35 PM): HEY!!
Cava (5:50:41 PM): And welcome to PTI. No, we're not Wilbon and Kornheiser.
GOAT (5:50:54 PM): I'm GOAT
Cava (5:50:57 PM): And I'm Cava.
Cava (5:51:08 PM): And this is PARDON THE INCOHERENCE. We're the craziest blog you'll ever read, and the best ESPN knockoff, too.
GOAT (5:51:36 PM): Even if we don't make sense half the time.
Cava (5:51:43 PM): I'm brown, and he's a goat.
GOAT (5:52:00 PM): Fair enough. Let's get started with today's topics.
Cava (5:52:18 PM): Our first segment is called Quick Hits. Quick Hits is like PTI's rundown.We cover 5 topics in 25 minutes.
Cava (5:53:15 PM): 25 on the clock…
GOAT (5:54:30 PM): Well, our first topic is the NBA Playoffs. After the Spurs gave up a huge lead in Game 1 and got manhandled in Game 2, they came home to the Alamo City where they defeated the Lakers quite easily to put the series at 2-1.
Cava (5:55:16 PM): And on the other side of the country, the Celtics overcome their road woes, while the pistons break the Celtics hot streak at home, and we have quite a series in the ECF.
GOAT (5:55:37 PM): So, Cava, who do you like in these matchups?
Cava (5:55:47 PM): I'm bitter from last year, so I have the Lakers; I honestly think the Lakers can do this. You?
GOAT (5:56:47 PM): I'm taking the Lakers as well. They won't just lie down after going up 2 games to none like the Hornets did. This is a Lakers team that has some experience in the postseason with Derek Fisher and Kobe Bryant.
Cava (5:57:16 PM): Let's put it this way--if Kobe can play his game and share the ball, the Lakers go all the way.
GOAT (5:57:37 PM): Gotcha.
Cava (5:57:54 PM): Tell me about the ECF.
GOAT (5:58:58 PM): The Celtics finally won a game on the road. However, they also lost one in the Garden. The Pistons defense was terrible in the last few games, but I see them turning it around to take the series.
Cava (5:59:11 PM): Alrighty, so we both take the Lakers, and we’ll talk more about the rest a bit later.
Cava (5:59:18 PM): For our next topic we have the Mets.
GOAT (5:59:33 PM): If I might add, Rondo is the main problem for Boston. He doesn't make good decisions out there.
GOAT (5:59:38 PM): Continue, Cava.
Cava (5:59:56 PM): [glares] Willie Randolph stated earlier this week that he was viewed differently from white managers. How do you feel about this?
GOAT (6:00:35 PM): Well, I think he finally spoke his mind. I don't buy his apology at all. He was definitely put under pressure to make a public apology like he did. Do you think it was sincere?
Cava (6:00:49 PM): I don't know about the apology. I'm sure he was sorry, but for the right reasons? I don't know. But I think there's a bigger issue here. Randolph plays the race card. I hate when that happens--it cheapens what a problem racism really is.
Cava (6:02:05 PM): But at the same time, the Mets were rumored to have wanted to fire him--how do you feel about that?
GOAT (6:02:09 PM): He did play the race card and that probably wasn't the best approach, but I'm positive we all know that racism is still very prevalent in our country today. However, it would be a VERY bad idea for the Mets to fire him.
Cava (6:02:47 PM): I agree, the Mets shouldn't fire him.
Cava (6:03:33 PM): OK, let's move on. What's next, GOAT?
GOAT (6:04:14 PM): Next on our list of topics is the bad behavior of NFL players. It seems as though we read about a new athlete every day from the NFL who runs into trouble with the law. Your thoughts on this?
Cava (6:04:28 PM): First we had Cedric Benson, now Vince Young. Going back we had the whole Bengals' organization—it’s ridiculous.
GOAT (6:04:51 PM): And you can't forget about those ongoing problems such as Pacman Jones and Michael Vick.
Cava (6:04:57 PM): Of course.
GOAT (6:05:06 PM): As a whole, the League is having an image problem.
Cava (6:05:22 PM): We have real thugs, i.e. Pacman and Chris Henry, and then some not-so-real thugs like Vince Young and Ced Benson
GOAT (6:05:44 PM): As a Steelers fan, I appreciate your shots at the Bengals, by the way.
Cava (6:05:51 PM): I'm a Cleveland guy, so it's a fine line. Make the world a better place, punch a Steeler’s fan in the face…
GOAT (6:05:58 PM): But yeah, a couple pictures at a party never hurt anyone.
Cava (6:06:04 PM): Exactly. The guy was having a drink. And he was shirtless. People are always drinking. And they're always shirtless.
GOAT (6:06:31 PM): However, Goodell has to get the players on board with him so that the NFL doesn't continue tumbling downhill with stories such as these ones that keep surfacing.
Cava (6:06:36 PM): Heck, I bet half of you reading this are shirtless…
Cava (6:06:40 PM): If not pantless.
GOAT (6:06:52 PM): I swear I'm not.
Cava (6:06:53 PM): If the shoe fits, wear it.
GOAT (6:06:55 PM): Really, I'm not
Cava (6:06:59 PM): Riiiight…
Cava (6:07:09 PM): Goodell has been good. Still, he can make rules and punishments, but he can't force people to act a certain way. I'm serious when i say this--the NFL should have a definite policy--felonies mean you're out. Full-out ban, Pacman style.
GOAT (6:07:52 PM): I understand that, but they are giving a new meaning to the term "Rules are made to be broken."
Cava (6:08:09 PM): For misdemeanors, three strikes, you're out.
GOAT (6:08:16 PM): I agree with you there. Stricter penalties should reduce off-the-field problems.
Cava (6:08:22 PM): And for being a dillweed, you get to be ridiculed by the public.
GOAT (6:08:35 PM): Definitely.
Cava (6:08:41 PM): Less people commit a crime if you take something that matters to them.
GOAT (6:09:04 PM): Even though most are ridiculed already. (I'm talking to you, Mr. Owens)
Cava (6:09:20 PM): We'll leave it at that.
GOAT (6:34:32 PM): Anyway, what's our next topic?
Cava (6:34:43 PM): With ten minutes to go, the NBA Draft.
GOAT (6:35:00 PM): Ah, yes. How about the luck of the Bulls?
Cava (6:35:19 PM): They had a 1.7% chance of winning the draw, and the SOB’s did it.
GOAT (6:35:26 PM): Who should they take with the first pick?
Cava (6:35:38 PM): Does it matter? No matter who the Bulls draft, no matter how high, he ends up sucking.
Cava (6:36:13 PM): Now of course, they've had some hits, a la Michael Jordan, who was decent.
GOAT (6:36:20 PM): Yeah, I somewhat agree, but both Beasley and Rose have tremendous potential.
Cava (6:36:27 PM): Right
GOAT (6:36:32 PM): In this situation though, I'd take Derrick Rose.
Cava (6:36:34 PM): I'm a Beasley fan myself. You have to realize what the Bulls have.
GOAT (6:36:52 PM): There are trade rumors for Hinrich and with him gone, they will need Rose.
Cava (6:37:08 PM): If Hinrich leaves, then I’m ready to say Rose. But right now, they have a slew of at least decent guards. Ben Gordon is solid. Hinirich is decent. And I like Duhon.
GOAT (6:37:12 PM): Hopefully, they can get a interior offensive presence for him.
GOAT (6:37:38 PM): But not based on the team's needs, who do you think will have a better career: Beasley or Rose?
Cava (6:37:50 PM): Beasley for sure. He's the most talented player in this draft. The question is, what do the bulls want
GOAT (6:38:18 PM): Now, I doubt that. He is underweight for a 6-9 guy and will have trouble banging in the post as a power forward unless he develops some serious bulk.
Cava (6:38:31 PM): What if goes as a 3?
GOAT (6:38:55 PM): He's not so good a scorer as a 3 than as a 4.
Cava (6:39:01 PM): Imagine the lineup of Hinrich, Gordon, Beasley, Deng, and Noah. It's not too bad.
GOAT (6:39:12 PM): That's a small lineup though.
Cava (6:39:19 PM): They can play him as a big SF, and he can abuse the matchups. It is a small lineup, but Noah is the biggest the Bulls have. The Bulls are a small team.
GOAT (6:40:00 PM): Let's hypothesize, who would guard Dwight Howard or Kevin Garnett? Noah? He would be killed.
Cava (6:40:06 PM): They can’t. We already know. But Rose sure won't do it.
GOAT (6:40:21 PM): That is just more reason to trade Hinrich for someone in the post.
Cava (6:40:24 PM): Sure, but who can they get? Anderson Varejao may be on the market.
GOAT (6:40:45 PM): Eh...they would need to find a team in need of a point guard.
GOAT (6:40:52 PM): Who do you have going as the third pick?
Cava (6:41:07 PM): But I think at the third pick, Augustin wouldn't be bad, or Brooke Lopez. But remember-- I'm not too hot on draft topics, as I'm not a huge NCAA follower.
GOAT (6:42:54 PM): Lopez is the right choice in my opinion. Augustin going third is a little high for an undersized point guard, in my opinion.
Cava (6:43:00 PM): Sure, but he's very talented.
Cava (6:43:07 PM): Anyways, last topic for quick hits, as we near the end of time.
Cava (6:43:36 PM): SPYGATE!
GOAT (6:43:38 PM): As long as they don't take Mayo, they are fine. Let's just say I have some serious doubts about not only his play on the court but also his decisions off it.
Cava (6:43:47 PM): It won't go away, will it?
GOAT (6:43:56 PM): The media is blowing it way out of proportion now.
Cava (6:44:02 PM): Agreed. The issue is that the Pats DID cheat, but we all know that.
GOAT (6:44:22 PM): Just let it go. It won't happen again; the Pats have been penalized.
Cava (6:44:27 PM): But Goodell wants to pass the issue.
GOAT (6:44:39 PM): As he should, it is only further hurting his league.
Cava (6:44:41 PM): But we also know they cheated in the SB against the Rams. What can we do about it? Nothing.
GOAT (6:45:03 PM): Do you think Matt Walsh should take responsibility for his videotaping of the signals? Or is the Patriots' organization's fault?
Cava (6:45:19 PM): Pats are at fault. The other problem is, Senator Arlen Specter, an Eagles fan, keeps bringing it up.
GOAT (6:45:34 PM): Yeah, Specter has no business in this matter.
Cava (6:46:05 PM): Any last words?
GOAT (6:46:26 PM): I disagree with you. It is partially Matt Walsh's fault, too. As Mike & Mike in the Morning said, why would he keep these tapes from so long ago unless he was planning to reveal them to somewhat blackmail the Patriots?
Cava (6:46:39 PM): He wasn't planning jack…
GOAT (6:46:45 PM): It's ridiculous. He obviously knew what he was doing was wrong.
Cava (6:46:49 PM): He was forced to come out and reveal the truth. And he was paid by the Patriots, so why would rat on them right away?
GOAT (6:47:08 PM): He should have either revealed the truth as it was happening or just to let it go. Not now.
Cava (6:47:23 PM): We'll agree to disagreee.
Cava (6:47:30 PM): We're out of time on quick hits, a bit past actually. GOAT, tell them about our next segment
GOAT (6:50:47 PM): Buy or Sell, the game that was made famous by Around the Horn. Our first topic is Jason Taylor: Dolphin in Week 1?
Cava (6:51:05 PM): I like Jason Taylor, but I have a feeling he'll stay with the fins. I think Parcells is unreasonable. I’ll buy.
GOAT (6:52:18 PM): I'm buying that as well. Parcells is being a little ridiculous right now over it all, and it will settle down eventually. He will most definitely be in a Miami Dolphins uniform this season.
Cava (6:52:33 PM): If Parcells kept TO, he can keep Jason.
GOAT (6:52:46 PM): Good point. Haha.
Cava (6:52:53 PM): Buy or sell: Lakers-Celtics Finals.
GOAT (6:53:12 PM): Are you buying or selling this series reminiscent of something we would see in the 80s?
Cava (6:53:24 PM): I'm a buyer, too--both teams are truly amazing, and we'll have an instant classic. I'm assuming you buy. Am I right?
GOAT (6:55:06 PM): You're assuming wrong, buckethead. (Yeah, I went there.) The Celtics will not make the Finals. Their series is knotted up at 2 apiece right now and, as I mentioned earlier, Rajon Rondo is still making too many bad decisions on the court.
Cava (6:55:11 PM): Well, you know what happens when you assume. You make an ass out of you and me. The Celtics won't lose three games straight, and the Pistons will not win a game 7 in Boston.
GOAT (6:57:31 PM): The Pistons don't have to win three in a row. If they win tomorrow night, they'll have control of the series and a safe 3-2 lead.
Cava (6:58:24 PM): The Pistons need to win the next two games to win the series. I have to say it again: the Celtics won't be beaten in a game 7 at home
GOAT (6:59:07 PM): They don't necessarily need to. They've won in Boston before and they can do it again. They just have to make sure they take care of business at home in Game 6.
Cava (6:59:08 PM): And I just don't think the Pistons will win these two games.
GOAT (6:59:20 PM): Alright. Next topic.
Cava (6:59:21 PM): Game 7 is a whole new ballgame, my friend.
GOAT (6:59:33 PM): What do you got for us, Cava?
Cava (6:59:40 PM): Buy or sell? Brady Quinn starts for the Browns Week 1.
GOAT (7:00:01 PM): I'm selling it and fast.
Cava (7:00:06 PM): Why?
GOAT (7:00:29 PM): It's not going to happen.
Cava (7:00:33 PM): It is (I'm buying). The Browns gave up too much and pay him too much for him to ride the bench. I predict Derek Anderson will either be gone, or he'll be very unhappy on the bench, come week 1.
GOAT (7:01:19 PM): Money doesn't guarantee playing time.
Cava (7:01:24 PM): Truth. Still, there's a connection.
GOAT (7:02:02 PM): I guess, but the Browns will play the QB that will win them games, not who they are paying the most money.
Cava (7:02:12 PM): True again. So we'll just move on.
Cava (7:02:20 PM): Buy or sell--and we'll do them together, since they're related: Indians make the playoffs and Yankees make the playoffs.
GOAT (7:02:47 PM): I'm selling both. And I know you're at least buying the Indians. *coughhomercough* I know this may sound dumb, but I'm saying the A's grab the wild card.
Cava (7:03:25 PM): I buy the Tribe, sell the Yankees. The Tribe are in a crazy division. The White Sox can't play this well with this little talent for this long.
GOAT (7:03:54 PM): Yes, but the Indians are 1-9 in their last ten games!!!
Cava (7:04:07 PM): But the Tribe can't play this bad with this much talent for this long. They're very talented, but they're on a team slump.
GOAT (7:04:39 PM): Well, right now they are. Their starting rotation is great, but their offense is in a major slump right now.
Cava (7:04:45 PM): I agree. But we'll get out of it.
GOAT (7:04:59 PM): Keep telling yourself that.
Cava (7:05:08 PM): And the Yankees won't get in, because the Red Sox and maybe even the Rays will. Either the Rays or ChiSox take the ALWC.
GOAT (7:05:24 PM): At least we agree the last-place Yankees are in dire need of Posada and are starting to regret the firing of Torre, right?
Cava (7:05:31 PM): Yeah. Plus, they're a team of aging stars.
GOAT (7:05:44 PM): I say the Rays falter and go back to being normal.
Cava (7:05:51 PM): Maybe, but my Sox picks are solid.
GOAT (7:06:05 PM): The Sox are the only ones out of the AL East playing in the postseason.
Cava (7:06:12 PM): Sure
GOAT (7:06:17 PM): Well, that concludes Buy or Sell.
Cava (7:06:20 PM): Yep.
GOAT (7:06:23 PM): Time for an old segment to come back to life. I am, of course, referring to Game-Planning. Some of you may remember it from my college basketball blog. Well, it's back, and in a somewhat different form.
Cava (7:07:08 PM): It sure is.
GOAT (7:07:16 PM): Our highlight game is the Pistons visiting the Celtics. Who do ya got for Game 5, Cava?
Cava (7:07:27 PM): Celtics.
GOAT (7:07:36 PM): I'll take the Pistons.
Cava (7:07:42 PM): I'll tell you the keys.
GOAT (7:07:52 PM): Let's hear ‘em then. [aside] This should be good.
Cava (7:07:59 PM): The Celtics need to make their shots, because they don't come easy at all.
GOAT (7:08:11 PM): Not in the East, they don't. They wonder why the games never get out of the 80s.
Cava (7:08:22 PM): The crowd needs to be crazy. KG needs to play the way he did against the Cavs.
GOAT (7:08:42 PM): So are you saying the Celtics are screwed for Game 6 on the road?
GOAT (7:08:55 PM): I'll give you the keys for Detroit now.
Cava (7:08:57 PM): I think between Ray Allen, KG, and Double-P, they need 65 points.
GOAT (7:09:11 PM): As you said, we need to make our shots. They shot horribly in their Game 3 blowout loss.
GOAT (7:09:35 PM): Next, Rasheed Wallace ABSOLUTELY HAS TO make KG work on the defensive end. He needs to attack the rim and wear Garnett down. Billups needs to assert his dominance as the better point guard, which he obviously is. But he hasn't always shown it this series.
Cava (7:10:09 PM): Yeah, but can he maintain discipline (I'm referring to Rasheed)
GOAT (7:10:41 PM): He better, or the Pistons are gone from the playoffs. He needs to keep his composure. Two more technicals and he has to sit a game.
Cava (7:10:54 PM): Well, the PG position is interesting. Rondo is young, and can be either brilliant or awful on any given day. Billups hasn't been playing to par.
GOAT (7:11:19 PM): I agree with both of your points.
Cava (7:11:20 PM): And Cassell has been rightfully benched. Bring him in for big shots, otherwise, ride it, sucka.
GOAT (7:11:31 PM): Cassell was an unneeded asset to the team.
GOAT (7:11:45 PM): Unneeded asset. That's an oxymoron if I ever saw one.
Cava (7:11:58 PM): You put the moron in oxymoron. Moron.
GOAT (7:12:12 PM): Moving on...
Cava (7:12:20 PM): This is my segment from my SIFS blog. You may remember Game Balls and Lame Balls.
GOAT (7:12:44 PM): I do.
Cava (7:12:50 PM): It's our last segment tonight, and it goes like this. We'll each pick one or so concept, person, or team from sports. One that was good (Game) and the other that sucked (Lame).
Cava (7:14:01 PM): So without further adieu, GOAT, name your Lame Ball.
GOAT (7:14:12 PM): Jenna Jameson has made quite the career off it. I would hardly consider it lame, but I digress…
GOAT (7:14:52 PM): My lame ball goes to Joakim Noah. I mean, how dumb can you be?
Cava (7:15:01 PM): Pretty dumb, I guess.
GOAT (7:15:01 PM): I'd also like to give a co-lame ball to Danica Patrick.
Cava (7:15:08 PM): Impressive. Lame Tire maybe?
GOAT (7:15:21 PM): She's a pro athlete, yet acts like a 5-year-old with her temper tantrums.
Cava (7:15:34 PM): I think she had a right to be ticked.
GOAT (7:15:35 PM): Grow up and act like a responsible adult, Danica!
Cava (7:15:43 PM): She reads this blog, so I'm sure she’ll obey.
GOAT (7:15:48 PM): No need to act the way she did.
Cava (7:15:56 PM): She didn't actually DO anything.
GOAT (7:15:59 PM): Who does your Lame Ball go to?
Cava (7:16:05 PM): My Lame Ball has to go to idiot umpires. I mean, are you SERIOUS?! They miss 3 homerun calls in a pretty short timespan. IDIOTS!
GOAT (7:19:58 PM): Quite idiotic.
Cava (7:20:06 PM): Indeed. But like you, I'll co-Lame Ball this.
GOAT (7:20:23 PM): Be nice on the umps though, they are only human. It's not like they could replay the home run in their mind.
Cava (7:20:25 PM): I give one to the Indians offense. I mean, what the heck is going on here?
GOAT (7:20:53 PM): No argument here with the Indians. They are completely inept at hitting the baseball.
Cava (7:21:09 PM): We have the best rotation in baseball (yes, 'Zona fans, I said that) yet our offense...well, does what a Hoover does.
GOAT (7:21:31 PM): If it weren't for their pitching, they'd have the worst record in the MLB. Moving on to Game Balls. Who do you got?
Cava (7:21:37 PM): You go first.
GOAT (7:24:43 PM): Alright, I'll take Jon Lester. What a story he has made.
Cava (7:24:52 PM): Classy pick.
GOAT (7:25:25 PM): From all the problems he has had the last couple of years, this guy sure deserved it. He pitched a no-hitter, the 18th in Red Sox history, if my memory serves me.
GOAT (7:25:42 PM): Who are you taking?
Cava (7:27:02 PM): I'm gonna have to take David Ortiz.
GOAT (7:27:17 PM): He did publicly yell at the commish.
Cava (7:27:20 PM): It may sound like a weak pick, but I think it's important he speaks his mind. Selig is a loser.
GOAT (7:27:38 PM): I agree. Who calls a tie in an ASG?
Cava (7:27:50 PM): He's horrible at managing this league. He can't stop players from cheating, so he's going to try to mess with the pace of the game? What an idiot.
GOAT (7:28:14 PM): Add to the fact that he just banned Little Leagues from using Major League teams as the names of their teams.
Cava (7:28:26 PM): That's what I'm saying. Oritz gets a Game Ball for telling that man to shove it.
GOAT (7:28:43 PM): Good choice. Haha.
Cava (7:28:54 PM): ANNNNND that's our show.
Cava (7:29:01 PM): Hope you guys enjoyed it
GOAT (7:29:04 PM): That concludes the very first edition of what will hopefully be many editions of Pardon the Incoherence. Don't forget to send mail to either myself or Cava for our Mail Time segment, and for general suggestions on style, flow, and topics.
Cava (7:29:13 PM): This is Cava, rolling out
GOAT (7:30:01 PM): Have a nice week, peoples...
[clap clap clap]
Friday, May 23, 2008
Basketball Writing on Helium: Look-In Vol. 1
Recently, I have found a new site to write articles on. This site is Helium.com. I like it because, after posting, other members of the site rate the article and each piece of writing is ranked among others of the same topic. So every once in awhile, I will be giving a look-in to my writing on the site. This is the first of (hopefully) many.
Topic: Who would you rather have on your NBA team: LeBron James or Kobe Bryant?
My Take: I wrote this a couple weeks ago and went against the grain in arguing for Kobe. Currently, it is ranked 3rd out of the 15 articles written in favor of Bryant over LeBron.
Topic: Exciting NBA basketball players to watch
My Take: In this particular piece by me, I talked about not only the obvious choices of Chris Paul and Kobe Bryant but also those you wouldn't expect such as Gerald Wallace and Brandon Roy. As of right now, it is ranked 2nd out of the 24 written on exciting NBA players.
Topic: Should Kobe Bryant become the NBA's MVP for the 2007/2008 pro basketball season?
My Take: I said no and argued for Chris Paul to win the award. I felt as though I brought up some pretty good points. Too bad Kobe has been proving me wrong in the playoffs. My article is ranked 5th out of 8.
Topic: The most underrated NBA player
My Take: I really don't want to give it away on whom I picked so I'll let you follow the link and find out for yourself. You may be somewhat shocked though. (My finding him was shear luck.) It is ranked 3rd out of 17 right now.
Topic: The best NBA point guards
My Take: Finally, you have my newest article. I am ranked 1st...but so far I am the only one to write on that topic so don't be fooled. The top three are pretty obvious, but after that it gets a little shaken up.
There you have it. Those are my latest and greatest (yeah, right) works of writing. I hope you enjoy. Leave a comment if you'd like.
Topic: Who would you rather have on your NBA team: LeBron James or Kobe Bryant?
My Take: I wrote this a couple weeks ago and went against the grain in arguing for Kobe. Currently, it is ranked 3rd out of the 15 articles written in favor of Bryant over LeBron.
Topic: Exciting NBA basketball players to watch
My Take: In this particular piece by me, I talked about not only the obvious choices of Chris Paul and Kobe Bryant but also those you wouldn't expect such as Gerald Wallace and Brandon Roy. As of right now, it is ranked 2nd out of the 24 written on exciting NBA players.
Topic: Should Kobe Bryant become the NBA's MVP for the 2007/2008 pro basketball season?
My Take: I said no and argued for Chris Paul to win the award. I felt as though I brought up some pretty good points. Too bad Kobe has been proving me wrong in the playoffs. My article is ranked 5th out of 8.
Topic: The most underrated NBA player
My Take: I really don't want to give it away on whom I picked so I'll let you follow the link and find out for yourself. You may be somewhat shocked though. (My finding him was shear luck.) It is ranked 3rd out of 17 right now.
Topic: The best NBA point guards
My Take: Finally, you have my newest article. I am ranked 1st...but so far I am the only one to write on that topic so don't be fooled. The top three are pretty obvious, but after that it gets a little shaken up.
There you have it. Those are my latest and greatest (yeah, right) works of writing. I hope you enjoy. Leave a comment if you'd like.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Thoughts from the Playoffs
This year's playoffs has been more exciting than in recent years. The favorites, Boston, have been struggling mightily to far inferior opponents, yet somehow have found a way to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. Kobe Bryant, on the other hand, has proven the voters right. He is the choice over Chris Paul and is playing better this postseason.
Last night, the Hornets showed their inexperience and youth quite a bit in falling to the San Antonio Spurs in Game 7 by nine points. To say CP3 had a bad series would be ridiculous. However, to say he wasn't at his best in the games following Game 2 is probably a valid assumption. In fact, in those five games, Paul averaged "only" 24 points, 10 assists, and 3 turnovers. (All of those averages would be good for any point guard in the League except him.)
A couple nights ago, Paul Pierce and LeBron James engaged in quite a scoring battle. They combined to score 46% of the points in the entire game with LeBron putting up 45 and Pierce scoring 41. Interestingly enough, this was not the story of the series. It would almost have to be Boston's inability to win on the road the entire postseason. They are 0-6 in games played outside of TD Banknorth Garden.
The home teams dominating has actually been the story of the second round. The visiting teams were an astonishing 3-22 with the only wins being the Spurs over New Orleans, Los Angeles over the Jazz, and Detroit over Orlando. Many bloggers and analysts would claim a reason as to why this is happening. The truth of the matter is I have no idea what is going on. Some of you could make a case for the fans, refs, or even the players' being more comfortable in their home gym. Whatever the reason, road wins have been remarkably hard to come by.
My predictions for the next round aren't really surprising. I think the Lakers will dethrone the defending champs in six games with Kobe's crew stealing a win in the Alamo City. With the other series, it's an extremely tough call. However, I'm going with the Pistons in seven games. They will most certainly have to win in Boston (which hasn't happened yet in the playoffs this year). At any rate, I am sorry to tell you that the hoped-and-sought-for Lakers/Celtics finals will not be. Better luck next year.
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Last night, the Hornets showed their inexperience and youth quite a bit in falling to the San Antonio Spurs in Game 7 by nine points. To say CP3 had a bad series would be ridiculous. However, to say he wasn't at his best in the games following Game 2 is probably a valid assumption. In fact, in those five games, Paul averaged "only" 24 points, 10 assists, and 3 turnovers. (All of those averages would be good for any point guard in the League except him.)
A couple nights ago, Paul Pierce and LeBron James engaged in quite a scoring battle. They combined to score 46% of the points in the entire game with LeBron putting up 45 and Pierce scoring 41. Interestingly enough, this was not the story of the series. It would almost have to be Boston's inability to win on the road the entire postseason. They are 0-6 in games played outside of TD Banknorth Garden.
The home teams dominating has actually been the story of the second round. The visiting teams were an astonishing 3-22 with the only wins being the Spurs over New Orleans, Los Angeles over the Jazz, and Detroit over Orlando. Many bloggers and analysts would claim a reason as to why this is happening. The truth of the matter is I have no idea what is going on. Some of you could make a case for the fans, refs, or even the players' being more comfortable in their home gym. Whatever the reason, road wins have been remarkably hard to come by.
My predictions for the next round aren't really surprising. I think the Lakers will dethrone the defending champs in six games with Kobe's crew stealing a win in the Alamo City. With the other series, it's an extremely tough call. However, I'm going with the Pistons in seven games. They will most certainly have to win in Boston (which hasn't happened yet in the playoffs this year). At any rate, I am sorry to tell you that the hoped-and-sought-for Lakers/Celtics finals will not be. Better luck next year.
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Wednesday, April 30, 2008
The State of the Suns and the MVP Race
As an avid Phoenix Suns fan, I feel compelled to give you my opinion on their team in general right now. Let's just say I am deeply, and I mean deeply, dissatisfied with their front office. The Killing K's (not Killer, mind you) are hurting this franchise more than anything else. They got rid of James Jones, a remarkable shooter, to go under the cap and then basically gave away Kurt Thomas for next to nothing. Last season, those were two key reserves on a team that got within one win of the Western Conference Finals.
Now wait, it gets much better. They trade Shawn Marion, a four-time all-star and possibly their most valuable player, for Shaquille O'Neal, a past-his-prime overly-expensive center. At the time, I wasn't quite sure what to think of the trade. However, after Shaq's little playoff performance, in which he went 32-63 from the FREE THROW LINE and fouled out of two of the five games, this trade was one of the biggest mistakes made all year by any team with the exception of the Knicks.
My next problem I have with them is their drafting ability or lack of any drafting ability. Rudy Fernandez, also known as the next Manu Ginobili, was traded by the Suns to the Blazers. Luol Deng and Nate Robinson were, like Rudy, drafted by Phoenix before being traded away. What do they think they are doing? Drafts are supposed to be used for building your future. The Killing K's, however, have been trading their future away.
My final "beef" with them is their rumored decision to get rid of head coach Mike D'Antoni. This is the wrong move. D'Antoni is a great coach who helps that team very much. Yes, he made some mistakes in the series against the Spurs this year, but that doesn't mean you drop him like a bad habit. If Phoenix does decide to hire a halfcourt offense-favoring coach, they are in some serious trouble. Not only will it take the veterans of D'Antoni's system such as Nash and Stoudemire some time to adjust, but it will also weaken the talent of the team. Diaw, Barbosa, and Bell help the team because of their ability to play well in an uptempo game. With a slowed-down tempo, these players aren't so good.
To end this, Kraft and Kerr better make some good decisions fast or the fans won't be too happy. I doubt it will get anywhere near the situation that Isaiah had in New York, but it definitely will not be good for the organization. My first advice is to either keep Coach Mike or hire a coach that favors the uptempo game. Next they should draft either a defensive specialist or a shooter and KEEP HIM for years to come.
Moving on in this blogging program...the MVP race is close. Last year, Kobe's averages of 28 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists while leading his team to the #1 seed would have been enough to win the League's most coveted award. However, last year did not include the phenomenal season of third-year playmaker Chris Paul. So without further adieu, I give to you my top three Most Valuable Players of the 2007-08 NBA season.
3. LeBron James- King James is like no one else on the court. He is dominant and puts up his great numbers, but his supporting cast (or lack thereof) is holding him back from winning. At any rate, if Cleveland didn't have this guy, they would be the cellar dweller of their division behind even the Milwaukee Bucks.
Stats: 30 pts, 8 reb, 7 ast, 2 stl
2. Kobe Bryant- As I mentioned before, Kobe has put up ridiculous stats and his team is actually doing well for the first time since the Shaq and Kobe Era. So why doesn't he win? Well he could, but the competition for the award this year is as stiff as ever. My reason for his being second though is simple: he's not so valuable to his team as the person I chose to win the trophy.
Stats: 28 pts, 6 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl, 46% FG
1. Chris Paul- I believe this year's Most Valuable Player award goes to the player that is the most valuable for his team. He is the player that makes the #2-seeded Hornets go. Without him, they would be settling in mediocrity. Paul is the playmaker for his team that simply wins them games.
Stats: 21 pts, 12 ast, 4 reb, 3 stl, 49% FG
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Poll Results: After asking readers "Who was the best team to lose in the Elite Eight?", they responded with some very close results. Texas drew 40% of the votes while Davidson and Louisville received 30% each. Xavier, however, garnered no votes.
Now wait, it gets much better. They trade Shawn Marion, a four-time all-star and possibly their most valuable player, for Shaquille O'Neal, a past-his-prime overly-expensive center. At the time, I wasn't quite sure what to think of the trade. However, after Shaq's little playoff performance, in which he went 32-63 from the FREE THROW LINE and fouled out of two of the five games, this trade was one of the biggest mistakes made all year by any team with the exception of the Knicks.
My next problem I have with them is their drafting ability or lack of any drafting ability. Rudy Fernandez, also known as the next Manu Ginobili, was traded by the Suns to the Blazers. Luol Deng and Nate Robinson were, like Rudy, drafted by Phoenix before being traded away. What do they think they are doing? Drafts are supposed to be used for building your future. The Killing K's, however, have been trading their future away.
My final "beef" with them is their rumored decision to get rid of head coach Mike D'Antoni. This is the wrong move. D'Antoni is a great coach who helps that team very much. Yes, he made some mistakes in the series against the Spurs this year, but that doesn't mean you drop him like a bad habit. If Phoenix does decide to hire a halfcourt offense-favoring coach, they are in some serious trouble. Not only will it take the veterans of D'Antoni's system such as Nash and Stoudemire some time to adjust, but it will also weaken the talent of the team. Diaw, Barbosa, and Bell help the team because of their ability to play well in an uptempo game. With a slowed-down tempo, these players aren't so good.
To end this, Kraft and Kerr better make some good decisions fast or the fans won't be too happy. I doubt it will get anywhere near the situation that Isaiah had in New York, but it definitely will not be good for the organization. My first advice is to either keep Coach Mike or hire a coach that favors the uptempo game. Next they should draft either a defensive specialist or a shooter and KEEP HIM for years to come.
Moving on in this blogging program...the MVP race is close. Last year, Kobe's averages of 28 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists while leading his team to the #1 seed would have been enough to win the League's most coveted award. However, last year did not include the phenomenal season of third-year playmaker Chris Paul. So without further adieu, I give to you my top three Most Valuable Players of the 2007-08 NBA season.
3. LeBron James- King James is like no one else on the court. He is dominant and puts up his great numbers, but his supporting cast (or lack thereof) is holding him back from winning. At any rate, if Cleveland didn't have this guy, they would be the cellar dweller of their division behind even the Milwaukee Bucks.
Stats: 30 pts, 8 reb, 7 ast, 2 stl
2. Kobe Bryant- As I mentioned before, Kobe has put up ridiculous stats and his team is actually doing well for the first time since the Shaq and Kobe Era. So why doesn't he win? Well he could, but the competition for the award this year is as stiff as ever. My reason for his being second though is simple: he's not so valuable to his team as the person I chose to win the trophy.
Stats: 28 pts, 6 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl, 46% FG
1. Chris Paul- I believe this year's Most Valuable Player award goes to the player that is the most valuable for his team. He is the player that makes the #2-seeded Hornets go. Without him, they would be settling in mediocrity. Paul is the playmaker for his team that simply wins them games.
Stats: 21 pts, 12 ast, 4 reb, 3 stl, 49% FG
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Poll Results: After asking readers "Who was the best team to lose in the Elite Eight?", they responded with some very close results. Texas drew 40% of the votes while Davidson and Louisville received 30% each. Xavier, however, garnered no votes.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
The Season That Was
This is the time of year when every diehard college basketball fan is suddenly saddened. He is forced to watch the NBA, which he considers second-rate basketball viewing. Every Saturday, he misses the sound of Dickie V and Digger arguing about whom will win on that particular day. I am one of those people. I thrive on the game of college basketball. It's a necessity in my life. I guess I'll have to pay attention to my Suns now, but I'd much rather watch Duke or Memphis play.
The purpose of this blog is to recap the memories of this season. It is also to list what I believe to be some of the best players and teams in the country. But, first, I'd like to say how enjoyable this season was. Great freshmen, a lot of elite teams, and a nice cinderfella run in March. The upsets weren't as plentiful as some would hope but it was still a good tournament.
This year was chalk full of games between closely matched teams. We had the pleasure of watching #2 Duke take down #3 North Carolina. We also saw one of the most hyped regular season games ever in #1 Memphis versus #2 Tennessee. Quite recently, we watched games such as #10-seeded Davidson lose a close one to eventual champion, Kansas. But what topped them all? The National Championship game in San Antonio. The Kansas Jayhawks defeated the Memphis Tigers in a thrilling overtime event.
I am aware that many of you reading this blog also read my thirteen Game-Planning blogs I posted throughout the year. In those, I previewed 63 games. My record was 39-24 and went undefeated only one week. My bright spots had to have been picking Vanderbilt over Tennessee and Texas over the heavily-favored UCLA Bruins.
To start the lists, I will give you my Top Twenty Players from the 2007-08 college basketball season. Before you jump into that, however, check out a Bruce Pearl pregame speech...
20. Russell Westbrook, UCLA Soph. Guard. This breakout star has been possibly the biggest reason the Bruins had such a successful year. He was a stat stuffer who helped on both ends of the floor in any way he could. To not put him on this list would be wrong as he had as good a year as any of these guys save the top five or so.
Stats: 13 pts, 4 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl
19. A.J. Abrams, Texas Jr. Guard. He was the shooter that thrived off Augustin's penetration. Their weave offense was effective partly because of this guy and that is why he makes the list. He had two games with 30+ points and fourteen games in which he reached the 20-point mark.
Stats: 17 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 spg, 2 apg
18. Darrell Arthur, Kansas Soph. Forward. Last year, Arthur was playing behind a couple different big guys. This year, however, he has flourished into a top big man in the country. In the National Championship, he got Joey Dorsey in foul trouble and proceeded to dominate the game finishing with 20 points and 10 rebounds. He would have been higher if he had stayed more consistent throughout the year.
Stats: 13 ppg, 6 rpg, 1 bpg
17. Brook Lopez, Stanford Soph. Forward. The highlight of the season for Brook almost had to be the effort he put forth in the NCAA Tournament against Marquette. He put up 30 points, which included the game-winning shot. He is a very talented player but probably needs to average more rebounds per game with his kind of height. If he does, the Pac-10 better watch out.
Stats: 19 ppg, 8 rpg, 2 bpg, 79% FT%
16. Scottie Reynolds, Villanova Soph. Guard. The Virginia native was a huge factor for the Wildcats on both ends of the floor. He had eleven games with 20+ points and seven games with 3+ steals. Without him, I doubt they would have made it out of the first round of the tournament. He had a very solid game against Clemson with 21 points.
Stats: 16 ppg, 3 apg, 3 rpg, 2 spg
15. D.J. White, Indiana Sr. Forward. He was the force inside for the roller coaster ride that was the Indiana Hoosiers basketball season. White averaged a double-double per game and was possibly more valuable to the team than the fabulous freshman, Eric Gordon. The difference between the two was consistency in which the senior had the edge.
Stats: 17 ppg, 10 rpg, 2 bpg, 61% FG%
14. Ty Lawson, North Carolina Soph. Guard. The leader of one of the best fastbreaks in the nation and a key contributor to a team that made it to the Final Four before losing to the champion Jayhawks. In games that Lawson had at least five assists, the Tar Heels were undefeated. To leave him off this list would be an injustice. He deserves it and had a fantastic season. I can only hope he doesn't turn pro and stays a few more years.
Stats: 13 ppg, 5 apg, 3 rpg, 2 spg
13. Chris Lofton, Tennessee Sr. Guard. What started as a year full of Player of the Year consideration ended as a disappointment. Tennessee lost in the Sweet 16 and Lofton struggled during the beginning of the year. Nonetheless, he had a good finish to the year save the NCAA Tournament in which he averaged a paltry 10 points per game.
Stats: 16 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 apg, 38% 3p%
12. Mario Chalmers, Kansas Jr. Guard. The Final Four Most Outstanding Player comes in at #12 on my list. Some would disagree but I believe it's about right. I mean, he did have eight games in which he was held to single digits in scoring. In the tournament though, he really stepped up his game. Chalmers averaged 15 points, 3 steals, and 3 assists on the road to a National Championship.
Stats: 13 ppg, 4 apg, 3 rpg, 3 spg, 47% 3p%
11. Shan Foster, Vanderbilt Sr. Guard/Forward. Most guys who average 20 points in a tough conference will make this list. Foster was huge at times for the Commodores. He scored 20+ point in his last six regular season games including outbursts of 42 against Mississippi State and 32 against Tennessee, both tournament teams.
Stats: 20 ppg, 5 rpg, 2 apg, 47% 3p%
10. Darren Collison, UCLA Jr. Guard. After missing a couple games early in the year, he returned to lead the Bruins to a 29-4 record when he took the floor. His high point came when he hit the game-winning runner against Texas A&M in the tournament. He finished the game with 19 points. Also, Collison scored 20+ points on six occasions, all of which were victories.
Stats: 15 ppg, 4 apg, 3 rpg, 2 spg, 53% 3p%
9. Eric Gordon, Indiana Fr. Guard. He was probably one of the top five most prolific scorers in college basketball this past season but really looked like an inexperienced freshman at times and that is why he is relatively low at #9. When he was healthy, Gordon was held to single digits in scoring only once.
Stats: 21 ppg, 3 rpg, 83% FT%
8. Derrick Rose, Memphis Fr. Guard. This guy is one of the fastest and most exciting players to watch and I have had the pleasure of watching him throughout the season. His averages are extremely good for someone that young in basketball and showed poise at times during the NCAA Tournament. #8 is a good spot for him.
Stats: 15 ppg, 5 apg, 5 rpg, 47% FG%
7. Chris Douglas-Roberts, Memphis Jr. Guard. CDR was the best scorer to reach the Final Four, in my opinion. He averaged a remarkable 28 points per game in the tournament and really stepped it up when it counted. He even drew a couple box-and-ones against him which allowed his teammates to get open and score. Memphis better hope CDR stays for next season.
Stats: 18 ppg, 4 rpg, 41% 3p%, 54% FG%
6. Kevin Love, UCLA Fr. Center. Love has led the Bruins to the Final Four and has averaged a double-double along the way. Without him, I doubt UCLA makes it past the Sweet 16. Not only did he score and rebound, but he also drew double teams that opened it up for other players on his team.
Stats: 18 ppg, 11 rpg, 60% FG%, 35% 3p%
5. Luke Harangody, Notre Dame Soph. Forward. It's ironic that one of the best player in the country had his best game of the year in a losing effort. I am, of course, referring to when Gody had 40 points and 12 rebounds against Louisville. However, it should be noted that he scored in double figures every game except one this season.
Stats: 20 ppg, 11 rpg, 50% FG%
4. D.J. Augustin, Texas Soph. Guard. This player is the best point guard in college basketball. He is my choice for the Cousy Award and has reached 10 assists in a game four times this year. D.J. can also boast the fourteen times he has scored at least 20 points in a game this past season.
Stats: 19 ppg, 6 apg, 3 rpg, 38% 3p%
3. Stephen Curry, Davidson, Soph. Guard. The best scorer in the country comes in at #3. He has scored in double digits every single game and had a 7-game streak of 20+ points. Curry has also scored 35+ points in six games. His run in the NCAA Tournament was nothing short of spectacular and an argument could be made for him to appear higher on this list.
Stats: 26 ppg, 5 rpg, 3 apg, 2 spg, 44% 3p%
2. Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina Jr. Forward. Possibly the hardest worker in the country is #2 because of how important he was to North Carolina's deep tournament run this season. He scored in double figures for points every single game he played in this season and grabbed 15+ rebounds in three games. In my opinion, Psycho T could have easily been number one on this list. It was almost a toss-up.
Stats: 23 ppg, 10 rpg, 2 spg, 81% FT%
1. Michael Beasley, Kansas State Fr. Forward. Believe it or not, this freshman's campaign was even more impressive than that of Kevin Durant last year. He scored in double digits every game except one in a loss to Xavier. Beasley even pulled down double digits in rebounding in all but four games. It's too bad he can't stay a couple more years on a college campus.
Stats: 26 ppg, 12 rpg, 2 bpg, 38% 3p%, 53% FG%
Now is the time for me to hand out the 2008 College Basketball Awards. Enjoy...
The Petey Sessoms Award: Every year, this award is presented to the relatively unknown player coming from a small conference that plays extremely well against the big schools in the NCAA Tournament. I would like to give credit to fellow FanNation member, Agganis Lives, for the idea of this award. So without any further delay, the award goes to Stephen Curry of Davidson. He averaged 32 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals in his four tournament games. The runner-ups for this award were Tyrone Brazelton and Courtney Lee, both of Western Kentucky.
The Bob Cousy Award: This is an annual award given to the best college point guard in the country. My pick, which is the same as the Basketball Hall of Fame's pick, is D.J. Augustin of Texas. I ranked him as the fourth best player in college earlier in this blog. He averaged 19 points and 6 assists this season. The runner-ups for this award are UCLA's Darren Collison, North Carolina's Ty Lawson, Memphis's Derrick Rose, and Davidson's Jason Richards.
The Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award: This particular award goes to the most dominant big man in college basketball each year. There was a lot of competition for it this year but it rightfully is awarded to Tyler Hansbrough of North Carolina. He averaged 23 points and 10 rebounds per game this season and was never held to less than 12 points in a game. The runner-ups for this award were UCLA's Kevin Love, Notre Dame's Luke Harangody, and Indiana's D.J. White.
The Pistol Pete Award: Each year, I give this to the best scorer in college basketball. It does not necessarily go to the player with the best average though. The winner is Kansas State's Michael Beasley. He averaged 26 points per game and had thirteen games in which he scored 30 or more points. The runner-ups were Lester Hudson of UT-Martin and Stephen Curry of Davidson.
The Oscar Robertson Award: This final award goes to that player who led his team in every way possible: scoring, rebounding, passing, playing defense, etc. The winner of the Robertson Award goes to Memphis's Derrick Rose. He is the second freshman to receive an award (the other was Beasley). Rose gets this one due to his all-around good averages of 15 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds. The runner-ups for this award were Darren Collison and Russell Westbrook of UCLA, Mario Chalmers of Kansas, and Scottie Reynolds of Villanova.
For the final part of this blog, I give to you the Top Ten Teams of the college basketball season...
10. Xavier (30-7)- The Musketeers are tenth in my rankings after falling to UCLA in the Elite Eight. They were led by Josh Duncan (12 pts, 5 reb) and Drew Lavender (11 pts, 5 ast). I doubt they will make it this far next season due to the losses of both Duncan and Lavender. Nonetheless, they had a very good run this year and had impressive wins over Indiana, Virginia, and Dayton (twice).
9. Wisconsin (31-5) - After claiming the Big Ten Championship, the Badgers proceeded to advance to the Sweet 16 before falling to Davidson. In my opinion, they had the best team in the conference and, despite not having the most talent, won games that got them such a successful season. They were led by Brian Butch (12 pts, 7 reb), Trevon Hughes (11 pts, 3 reb, 3 ast), and Marcus Landry (11 pts, 6 reb).
8. Tennessee (31-5) - Most teams would look upon being the best team in their conference and making it to the Sweet 16 as an accomplishment. Sadly, for the Vols, this year was full of expectation and they failed to meet most of it. They were led by Chris Lofton (16 pts), Tyler Smith (14 pts, 7 reb, 3 ast), and Wayne Chism (10 pts, 6 reb).
7. Louisville (27-9) - The Cardinals, after a extremely slow start, finished the season strong and proved to be the team everyone had expected entering the year. They finished 12-3 after their sixth loss at UConn. Some of those twelve wins included Marquette, Georgetown, Pitt, Notre Dame, and Tennessee. They were led by a plethora of players including Padgett (11 pts, 5 reb), Clark (11 pts, 8 reb), Williams (11 pts, 7 reb, 5 ast), Smith (11 pts, 4 reb), and Caracter (8 pts, 5 reb).
6. Davidson (29-7) - The Wildcats had a very impressive season for one of the smallest schools in Division I. After getting ripped off and been given a 10 seed, they rallied behind sharpshooter, Stephen Curry (26 pts, 5 reb, 3 ast), and senior leader, Jason Richards (13 pts, 8 ast, 3 reb), to advance all the way to the Elite Eight before falling at the hands of eventual champion, Kansas. They finished with a perfect conference record of 20-0.
5. Texas (31-7) - The Longhorns lost their conference championship and lost their regional final. However, their season was nothing short of remarkable for what was considered to be a down year following the loss of superstar Kevin Durant. They were a guard-heavy team led by D.J. Augustin (19 pts, 6 ast), A.J. Abrams (17 pts), and Damion James (13 pts, 10 reb).
4. North Carolina (36-3) - After clinching a #1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, the Tar Heels proceeded to demolish their opponents until the Final Four was reached. They then were routed by the champion Jayhawks. They were led by Tyler Hansbrough (23 pts, 10 reb), Ty Lawson (13 pts, 5 ast, 3 reb), and Wayne Ellington (17 pts, 5 reb). North Carolina were the ACC Tournament Champions and the Charlotte Regional Champions.
3. UCLA (35-4) - Yes, I'll admit it. I picked this very team to win the NCAA Tournament. They had a good run, too, before falling short in the Final Four for the third straight year. Nonetheless, they were regional and conference champions and claimed a #1 seed in the tourney. They were led by Kevin Love (18 pts, 11 reb), Darren Collison (15 pts, 4 ast, 3 reb), Russell Westbrook (13 pts, 4 reb, 4 ast), and Josh Shipp (12 pts, 3 reb, 2 ast).
2. Memphis (38-2) - The Tigers had the most wins for a college team in history yet they didn't quite get what they wanted as they lost to Kansas in the National Championship. The Achilles' heel of this team took 39 games before it caught up to them as they gave away the game on free throws. Memphis was led by Chris Douglas-Roberts (18 pts, 4 reb), Derrick Rose (15 pts, 5 reb, 5 ast), and Joey Dorsey (7 pts, 10 reb).
1. Kansas (37-3) - National Champions. I'm pretty sure that sums up the entire season for these guys. Nothing is more gratifying than winning it all before leaving the school for either the NBA or the working world. They beat the best of the best in defeating two #1s in the tournament. They were led by Mario Chalmers (13 pts, 4 ast, 3 reb), Brandon Rush (13 pts, 5 reb), and Darrell Arthur (13 pts, 6 reb). Congratulations, Kansas.
Now, I could write a couple thousand words describing how fantastic March Madness was and recapping all the entertaining games and plays that occured. However, I think that one simple video from YouTube would bring it all together very nicely. Enjoy and have a great week!
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The purpose of this blog is to recap the memories of this season. It is also to list what I believe to be some of the best players and teams in the country. But, first, I'd like to say how enjoyable this season was. Great freshmen, a lot of elite teams, and a nice cinderfella run in March. The upsets weren't as plentiful as some would hope but it was still a good tournament.
This year was chalk full of games between closely matched teams. We had the pleasure of watching #2 Duke take down #3 North Carolina. We also saw one of the most hyped regular season games ever in #1 Memphis versus #2 Tennessee. Quite recently, we watched games such as #10-seeded Davidson lose a close one to eventual champion, Kansas. But what topped them all? The National Championship game in San Antonio. The Kansas Jayhawks defeated the Memphis Tigers in a thrilling overtime event.
I am aware that many of you reading this blog also read my thirteen Game-Planning blogs I posted throughout the year. In those, I previewed 63 games. My record was 39-24 and went undefeated only one week. My bright spots had to have been picking Vanderbilt over Tennessee and Texas over the heavily-favored UCLA Bruins.
To start the lists, I will give you my Top Twenty Players from the 2007-08 college basketball season. Before you jump into that, however, check out a Bruce Pearl pregame speech...
20. Russell Westbrook, UCLA Soph. Guard. This breakout star has been possibly the biggest reason the Bruins had such a successful year. He was a stat stuffer who helped on both ends of the floor in any way he could. To not put him on this list would be wrong as he had as good a year as any of these guys save the top five or so.
Stats: 13 pts, 4 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl
19. A.J. Abrams, Texas Jr. Guard. He was the shooter that thrived off Augustin's penetration. Their weave offense was effective partly because of this guy and that is why he makes the list. He had two games with 30+ points and fourteen games in which he reached the 20-point mark.
Stats: 17 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 spg, 2 apg
18. Darrell Arthur, Kansas Soph. Forward. Last year, Arthur was playing behind a couple different big guys. This year, however, he has flourished into a top big man in the country. In the National Championship, he got Joey Dorsey in foul trouble and proceeded to dominate the game finishing with 20 points and 10 rebounds. He would have been higher if he had stayed more consistent throughout the year.
Stats: 13 ppg, 6 rpg, 1 bpg
17. Brook Lopez, Stanford Soph. Forward. The highlight of the season for Brook almost had to be the effort he put forth in the NCAA Tournament against Marquette. He put up 30 points, which included the game-winning shot. He is a very talented player but probably needs to average more rebounds per game with his kind of height. If he does, the Pac-10 better watch out.
Stats: 19 ppg, 8 rpg, 2 bpg, 79% FT%
16. Scottie Reynolds, Villanova Soph. Guard. The Virginia native was a huge factor for the Wildcats on both ends of the floor. He had eleven games with 20+ points and seven games with 3+ steals. Without him, I doubt they would have made it out of the first round of the tournament. He had a very solid game against Clemson with 21 points.
Stats: 16 ppg, 3 apg, 3 rpg, 2 spg
15. D.J. White, Indiana Sr. Forward. He was the force inside for the roller coaster ride that was the Indiana Hoosiers basketball season. White averaged a double-double per game and was possibly more valuable to the team than the fabulous freshman, Eric Gordon. The difference between the two was consistency in which the senior had the edge.
Stats: 17 ppg, 10 rpg, 2 bpg, 61% FG%
14. Ty Lawson, North Carolina Soph. Guard. The leader of one of the best fastbreaks in the nation and a key contributor to a team that made it to the Final Four before losing to the champion Jayhawks. In games that Lawson had at least five assists, the Tar Heels were undefeated. To leave him off this list would be an injustice. He deserves it and had a fantastic season. I can only hope he doesn't turn pro and stays a few more years.
Stats: 13 ppg, 5 apg, 3 rpg, 2 spg
13. Chris Lofton, Tennessee Sr. Guard. What started as a year full of Player of the Year consideration ended as a disappointment. Tennessee lost in the Sweet 16 and Lofton struggled during the beginning of the year. Nonetheless, he had a good finish to the year save the NCAA Tournament in which he averaged a paltry 10 points per game.
Stats: 16 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 apg, 38% 3p%
12. Mario Chalmers, Kansas Jr. Guard. The Final Four Most Outstanding Player comes in at #12 on my list. Some would disagree but I believe it's about right. I mean, he did have eight games in which he was held to single digits in scoring. In the tournament though, he really stepped up his game. Chalmers averaged 15 points, 3 steals, and 3 assists on the road to a National Championship.
Stats: 13 ppg, 4 apg, 3 rpg, 3 spg, 47% 3p%
11. Shan Foster, Vanderbilt Sr. Guard/Forward. Most guys who average 20 points in a tough conference will make this list. Foster was huge at times for the Commodores. He scored 20+ point in his last six regular season games including outbursts of 42 against Mississippi State and 32 against Tennessee, both tournament teams.
Stats: 20 ppg, 5 rpg, 2 apg, 47% 3p%
10. Darren Collison, UCLA Jr. Guard. After missing a couple games early in the year, he returned to lead the Bruins to a 29-4 record when he took the floor. His high point came when he hit the game-winning runner against Texas A&M in the tournament. He finished the game with 19 points. Also, Collison scored 20+ points on six occasions, all of which were victories.
Stats: 15 ppg, 4 apg, 3 rpg, 2 spg, 53% 3p%
9. Eric Gordon, Indiana Fr. Guard. He was probably one of the top five most prolific scorers in college basketball this past season but really looked like an inexperienced freshman at times and that is why he is relatively low at #9. When he was healthy, Gordon was held to single digits in scoring only once.
Stats: 21 ppg, 3 rpg, 83% FT%
8. Derrick Rose, Memphis Fr. Guard. This guy is one of the fastest and most exciting players to watch and I have had the pleasure of watching him throughout the season. His averages are extremely good for someone that young in basketball and showed poise at times during the NCAA Tournament. #8 is a good spot for him.
Stats: 15 ppg, 5 apg, 5 rpg, 47% FG%
7. Chris Douglas-Roberts, Memphis Jr. Guard. CDR was the best scorer to reach the Final Four, in my opinion. He averaged a remarkable 28 points per game in the tournament and really stepped it up when it counted. He even drew a couple box-and-ones against him which allowed his teammates to get open and score. Memphis better hope CDR stays for next season.
Stats: 18 ppg, 4 rpg, 41% 3p%, 54% FG%
6. Kevin Love, UCLA Fr. Center. Love has led the Bruins to the Final Four and has averaged a double-double along the way. Without him, I doubt UCLA makes it past the Sweet 16. Not only did he score and rebound, but he also drew double teams that opened it up for other players on his team.
Stats: 18 ppg, 11 rpg, 60% FG%, 35% 3p%
5. Luke Harangody, Notre Dame Soph. Forward. It's ironic that one of the best player in the country had his best game of the year in a losing effort. I am, of course, referring to when Gody had 40 points and 12 rebounds against Louisville. However, it should be noted that he scored in double figures every game except one this season.
Stats: 20 ppg, 11 rpg, 50% FG%
4. D.J. Augustin, Texas Soph. Guard. This player is the best point guard in college basketball. He is my choice for the Cousy Award and has reached 10 assists in a game four times this year. D.J. can also boast the fourteen times he has scored at least 20 points in a game this past season.
Stats: 19 ppg, 6 apg, 3 rpg, 38% 3p%
3. Stephen Curry, Davidson, Soph. Guard. The best scorer in the country comes in at #3. He has scored in double digits every single game and had a 7-game streak of 20+ points. Curry has also scored 35+ points in six games. His run in the NCAA Tournament was nothing short of spectacular and an argument could be made for him to appear higher on this list.
Stats: 26 ppg, 5 rpg, 3 apg, 2 spg, 44% 3p%
2. Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina Jr. Forward. Possibly the hardest worker in the country is #2 because of how important he was to North Carolina's deep tournament run this season. He scored in double figures for points every single game he played in this season and grabbed 15+ rebounds in three games. In my opinion, Psycho T could have easily been number one on this list. It was almost a toss-up.
Stats: 23 ppg, 10 rpg, 2 spg, 81% FT%
1. Michael Beasley, Kansas State Fr. Forward. Believe it or not, this freshman's campaign was even more impressive than that of Kevin Durant last year. He scored in double digits every game except one in a loss to Xavier. Beasley even pulled down double digits in rebounding in all but four games. It's too bad he can't stay a couple more years on a college campus.
Stats: 26 ppg, 12 rpg, 2 bpg, 38% 3p%, 53% FG%
Now is the time for me to hand out the 2008 College Basketball Awards. Enjoy...
The Petey Sessoms Award: Every year, this award is presented to the relatively unknown player coming from a small conference that plays extremely well against the big schools in the NCAA Tournament. I would like to give credit to fellow FanNation member, Agganis Lives, for the idea of this award. So without any further delay, the award goes to Stephen Curry of Davidson. He averaged 32 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals in his four tournament games. The runner-ups for this award were Tyrone Brazelton and Courtney Lee, both of Western Kentucky.
The Bob Cousy Award: This is an annual award given to the best college point guard in the country. My pick, which is the same as the Basketball Hall of Fame's pick, is D.J. Augustin of Texas. I ranked him as the fourth best player in college earlier in this blog. He averaged 19 points and 6 assists this season. The runner-ups for this award are UCLA's Darren Collison, North Carolina's Ty Lawson, Memphis's Derrick Rose, and Davidson's Jason Richards.
The Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award: This particular award goes to the most dominant big man in college basketball each year. There was a lot of competition for it this year but it rightfully is awarded to Tyler Hansbrough of North Carolina. He averaged 23 points and 10 rebounds per game this season and was never held to less than 12 points in a game. The runner-ups for this award were UCLA's Kevin Love, Notre Dame's Luke Harangody, and Indiana's D.J. White.
The Pistol Pete Award: Each year, I give this to the best scorer in college basketball. It does not necessarily go to the player with the best average though. The winner is Kansas State's Michael Beasley. He averaged 26 points per game and had thirteen games in which he scored 30 or more points. The runner-ups were Lester Hudson of UT-Martin and Stephen Curry of Davidson.
The Oscar Robertson Award: This final award goes to that player who led his team in every way possible: scoring, rebounding, passing, playing defense, etc. The winner of the Robertson Award goes to Memphis's Derrick Rose. He is the second freshman to receive an award (the other was Beasley). Rose gets this one due to his all-around good averages of 15 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds. The runner-ups for this award were Darren Collison and Russell Westbrook of UCLA, Mario Chalmers of Kansas, and Scottie Reynolds of Villanova.
For the final part of this blog, I give to you the Top Ten Teams of the college basketball season...
10. Xavier (30-7)- The Musketeers are tenth in my rankings after falling to UCLA in the Elite Eight. They were led by Josh Duncan (12 pts, 5 reb) and Drew Lavender (11 pts, 5 ast). I doubt they will make it this far next season due to the losses of both Duncan and Lavender. Nonetheless, they had a very good run this year and had impressive wins over Indiana, Virginia, and Dayton (twice).
9. Wisconsin (31-5) - After claiming the Big Ten Championship, the Badgers proceeded to advance to the Sweet 16 before falling to Davidson. In my opinion, they had the best team in the conference and, despite not having the most talent, won games that got them such a successful season. They were led by Brian Butch (12 pts, 7 reb), Trevon Hughes (11 pts, 3 reb, 3 ast), and Marcus Landry (11 pts, 6 reb).
8. Tennessee (31-5) - Most teams would look upon being the best team in their conference and making it to the Sweet 16 as an accomplishment. Sadly, for the Vols, this year was full of expectation and they failed to meet most of it. They were led by Chris Lofton (16 pts), Tyler Smith (14 pts, 7 reb, 3 ast), and Wayne Chism (10 pts, 6 reb).
7. Louisville (27-9) - The Cardinals, after a extremely slow start, finished the season strong and proved to be the team everyone had expected entering the year. They finished 12-3 after their sixth loss at UConn. Some of those twelve wins included Marquette, Georgetown, Pitt, Notre Dame, and Tennessee. They were led by a plethora of players including Padgett (11 pts, 5 reb), Clark (11 pts, 8 reb), Williams (11 pts, 7 reb, 5 ast), Smith (11 pts, 4 reb), and Caracter (8 pts, 5 reb).
6. Davidson (29-7) - The Wildcats had a very impressive season for one of the smallest schools in Division I. After getting ripped off and been given a 10 seed, they rallied behind sharpshooter, Stephen Curry (26 pts, 5 reb, 3 ast), and senior leader, Jason Richards (13 pts, 8 ast, 3 reb), to advance all the way to the Elite Eight before falling at the hands of eventual champion, Kansas. They finished with a perfect conference record of 20-0.
5. Texas (31-7) - The Longhorns lost their conference championship and lost their regional final. However, their season was nothing short of remarkable for what was considered to be a down year following the loss of superstar Kevin Durant. They were a guard-heavy team led by D.J. Augustin (19 pts, 6 ast), A.J. Abrams (17 pts), and Damion James (13 pts, 10 reb).
4. North Carolina (36-3) - After clinching a #1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, the Tar Heels proceeded to demolish their opponents until the Final Four was reached. They then were routed by the champion Jayhawks. They were led by Tyler Hansbrough (23 pts, 10 reb), Ty Lawson (13 pts, 5 ast, 3 reb), and Wayne Ellington (17 pts, 5 reb). North Carolina were the ACC Tournament Champions and the Charlotte Regional Champions.
3. UCLA (35-4) - Yes, I'll admit it. I picked this very team to win the NCAA Tournament. They had a good run, too, before falling short in the Final Four for the third straight year. Nonetheless, they were regional and conference champions and claimed a #1 seed in the tourney. They were led by Kevin Love (18 pts, 11 reb), Darren Collison (15 pts, 4 ast, 3 reb), Russell Westbrook (13 pts, 4 reb, 4 ast), and Josh Shipp (12 pts, 3 reb, 2 ast).
2. Memphis (38-2) - The Tigers had the most wins for a college team in history yet they didn't quite get what they wanted as they lost to Kansas in the National Championship. The Achilles' heel of this team took 39 games before it caught up to them as they gave away the game on free throws. Memphis was led by Chris Douglas-Roberts (18 pts, 4 reb), Derrick Rose (15 pts, 5 reb, 5 ast), and Joey Dorsey (7 pts, 10 reb).
1. Kansas (37-3) - National Champions. I'm pretty sure that sums up the entire season for these guys. Nothing is more gratifying than winning it all before leaving the school for either the NBA or the working world. They beat the best of the best in defeating two #1s in the tournament. They were led by Mario Chalmers (13 pts, 4 ast, 3 reb), Brandon Rush (13 pts, 5 reb), and Darrell Arthur (13 pts, 6 reb). Congratulations, Kansas.
Now, I could write a couple thousand words describing how fantastic March Madness was and recapping all the entertaining games and plays that occured. However, I think that one simple video from YouTube would bring it all together very nicely. Enjoy and have a great week!
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