Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesThe Arizona State Sun Devils are looking to rebound off two mistake-ridden matchups against the No. 11 Wisconsin Badgers and the No. 5 Oregon Ducks in an away game against the always steady Oregon State Beavers.Both the Sun Devils and the Beavers have had a rough St. Louis Rams jersey
start to the 2010 season, but it is to be expected when you enter games as the clear underdog.Oregon State tallied losses against then-No. 6 TCU and No. 3 Boise State, but being able to acquire a win against Big East foe Louisville.The Sun Devils head to Corvallis as six-point underdogs as the Beavers open up their first Pac-10 game at home.Let's break down the offense and defense for both teams heading into Saturday's conference matchup.OffenseOregon State places 101st in the country for both passing and rushing, averaging 161 yards in the air and 109 yards on the ground.Starting quarterback Ryan Katz has only totaled 461 yards and five touchdowns through the first three games, with a season high 160 passing yards against Boise State. Katz has also yet to break the 57-percent completion rate that he put up against Louisville.Now to the "heart and sole" of the Beaver offensethe Rodgers brothers.Running back Jacquizz Rodgers has 253 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the season, with only one game in which he rushed for over 100 yards (132 versus Louisville).Wide receiver James Rodgers, who led the team in receptions last season, has brought in 113 yards and one touchdown through three games. James sustained a concussion against Boise State last week, and remains questionable for Saturday's game against the Sun Devils.Arizona State's offense has been exceptional, ranking fifth in the country for passing yards (326/game) and 47th in rushing yards (169/game).Quarterback Steven Threet has 1,228 passing yards through the first four games, including 387 yards against the nation's No. 5 team last week.Threet hasn't been totally perfect though, throwing seven interceptions through the first four gamesfour against Oregon to result in a loss.ASU running backs Cameron Marshall and Tennessee Titans jersey
Deantre Lewis have both been solid in recent games, adding a much needed ground attack to the high-octane offense. Lewis had back-to-back 100-plus rushing games against Wisconsin and Oregontwo teams that featured nation-leading defense heading into the contests.Who will win this conference showdown?Who will win this conference showdown?Arizona State60.3%Oregon State39.7%Total votes: 68The Sun Devil offense put up 597 total yards against No. 5 Oregon in Tempe, but mental mistakes in the red zone prohibited ASU from scoringa weakness that has shined in the past two games.EDGE: Arizona StateDefenseThe Oregon State defense has allowed 30 points or more in each of their first three games, and allowing an average of 392 total yards each game.After allowing 288 passing yards against Louisville and 294 yards in the air against Boise State, the Oregon State defense will likely have their hands full with the fast-paced, pass-oriented spread offense the Sun Devils have implemented.On the flip side, the Arizona State defense is as strong as ever coming off a week were they forced Oregon to punt a total of 11 times.The ASU defense cut the explosive Duck running game nearly in half, allowing them only 145 yards on the grounda feat no other team has accomplished this season.In fact, the Sun Devil defense was able to contain Heisman candidate LaMichael James to his first game this season under 100 rushing yards and 3.2 yards per carry, his lowest average of his career.EDGE: Arizona StateConclusionIn what should be Washington Redskins jersey
a close game, the Arizona State Sun Devils have an advantage on both sides of the ball heading into hostile territory.Both teams are in dyer need for a win in Week 5, but ASU should come out with a conference win, assuming the team limits mental mistakes and sloppy turnovers.
2011年1月24日星期一
2011年1月22日星期六
22 Jan 11 SEC Drama: Random Thoughts on The Season, Part I
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesAs opposed to putting out a full-body analysis of one game, I thought I'd throw out some readily-digestible chunks to spur some debate. I welcome any and all opinion and feedback on this format: What are the chances that certain teams are still "holding back" in terms of formations, sets, etc.? In the case of Alabama, there must certainly be a play in the books with Richardson and Ingram running some sort of ridiculous power sweep. What are the chances of Auburn or Arkansas having something similar, in terms of secret weapons? How Dallas Cowboys jersey
happy must the Commodores be right now? Yes, Ole Miss is about as well-built as a soup sandwich, but I've gotta think that the Vandy crew celebrated this win in a big way. Masoli must be ready to yank his face off out of frustration. I am certain a few people are calling Karma on this one... Auburn has talent, no question about it. But I saw a couple of things in the Clemson game that has me thinking that 11-12 wins (as some predict) is more than a stretch. If Auburn starts to have to win games by passing the ball, they are going to be in serious trouble. Watching Newton throw to DA in double coverage while the other cat was wide open shows me that he has a significant amount of growing to do. Florida seemed to get it together long enough to beat Tennessee. I was thinking an upset could happen, but since I didn't see the whole game, I can't provide detailed analysis of that match. I will say this, though: this is the kind of fire that great teams are forged in. When Alabama was going .500 in coach Saban's first year, that group was learning some valuable lessons on what it takes to win ballgames. I can't help but think that Dooley could have a real beast in Knoxville in the next two to three years. True Story: I picked the Gamecocks to win the East when they signed Lattimore in the offseason. USC has been one-dimensional for years now, and he takes care of exactly what they have been lacking. In my view, Garcia's mental issues have stemmed from a belief that he had to shoulder all of the offensive burden, on top of wondering if he was going to be yanked Denver Broncos jersey
at any second. That does not a happy QB situation make. Now that he has a stud RB, he has breathing room and some peace of mind in terms of offensive options. Teams can no longer sell out to stop the passing attack. The defense gets to rest a bit more since the g-cocks can actually sustain some long drives. Call me uninformed, but I had no idea Ryan Mallett was 0-fer-eternity in SEC road wins. My beloved Crimson Tide had better be ready for Petrino's team! Sidebar: Dre Kirkpatrick is going to be a lockdown, skull-cracking player before it's all over.Thanks for reading!
happy must the Commodores be right now? Yes, Ole Miss is about as well-built as a soup sandwich, but I've gotta think that the Vandy crew celebrated this win in a big way. Masoli must be ready to yank his face off out of frustration. I am certain a few people are calling Karma on this one... Auburn has talent, no question about it. But I saw a couple of things in the Clemson game that has me thinking that 11-12 wins (as some predict) is more than a stretch. If Auburn starts to have to win games by passing the ball, they are going to be in serious trouble. Watching Newton throw to DA in double coverage while the other cat was wide open shows me that he has a significant amount of growing to do. Florida seemed to get it together long enough to beat Tennessee. I was thinking an upset could happen, but since I didn't see the whole game, I can't provide detailed analysis of that match. I will say this, though: this is the kind of fire that great teams are forged in. When Alabama was going .500 in coach Saban's first year, that group was learning some valuable lessons on what it takes to win ballgames. I can't help but think that Dooley could have a real beast in Knoxville in the next two to three years. True Story: I picked the Gamecocks to win the East when they signed Lattimore in the offseason. USC has been one-dimensional for years now, and he takes care of exactly what they have been lacking. In my view, Garcia's mental issues have stemmed from a belief that he had to shoulder all of the offensive burden, on top of wondering if he was going to be yanked Denver Broncos jersey
at any second. That does not a happy QB situation make. Now that he has a stud RB, he has breathing room and some peace of mind in terms of offensive options. Teams can no longer sell out to stop the passing attack. The defense gets to rest a bit more since the g-cocks can actually sustain some long drives. Call me uninformed, but I had no idea Ryan Mallett was 0-fer-eternity in SEC road wins. My beloved Crimson Tide had better be ready for Petrino's team! Sidebar: Dre Kirkpatrick is going to be a lockdown, skull-cracking player before it's all over.Thanks for reading!
2011年1月18日星期二
18 Jan 11 Hogs Host The Crimson Tide: Arkansas Has No Chance Against Alabama?
Brian A. Westerholt/Getty ImagesThis Saturday will mark the biggest game in the state of Arkansas since the last top 10 match-up in 1979, when No. 6 Houston came to Fayetteville to face the No. 3 Arkansas Razorbacks.A lot has changed in 31 years.The Hogs are now ranked 10th in the nation, the Houston Cougars Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
season is in what appears to be a downward spiral, after losing both their starting and second string QBs.Last but not least, the University of Alabama Crimson Tide is No. 1 in the country.One thing is for sure, this will be a huge game.University of Arkansas students began camping outside DW Reynolds Razorback Stadium late Monday night/early Tuesday morning for a game that has been sold out for two weeks.Shortly thereafter, Arkansas students pleaded via Facebook and Twitter, for a "Red Out."However, I do not believe that this will be necessary. The Crimson Tide come to Fayetteville boasting the No. 1 ranking in the nation, so I believe that they would like to keep that intact.The Hogs go into Saturday remembering how they felt after the game a year ago in Tuscaloosa, the trip back, and having to sit and watch the game on film.That game has been on the Razorback players minds throughout last season, leading into this season.Arkansas doesn't need a gimmicky "Red Out" to remind them how big this game is; they don't need a thing with Ryan Mallett in the locker room.If you ask Arkansas' field general about Alabama, he changes his tone.His boyish smile goes away.His chipper happy go lucky attitude fades and a serious, strictly business demeanor comes over him.He remembers completing only 12 of his 35 pass attempts last year, he remembers the pass rush, he remembers looking up at the scoreboard after the game at the 35-7 final.If you would have asked him at the beginning of the season how many wins he predicted his Hogs to win this year, his answer was quick and simple: 14.If you ask him right now, his answer: 14.Ryan Mallett not only wants to change the way the fan base feels about the Arkansas Razorbackshe wants to change the way the nation perceives the Hogs.He brings a winning attitude to Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
a team that has had its share of disappointments and letdowns.He was a Razorback fan in 1998 when an undefeated Arkansas squad took on undefeated Tennessee and lost after Clint Stoerner fumbled in the waning moments, allowing the Volunteers to make a game winning drive.He brings the passion of a life long fan to this Arkansas Razorbacks team.But it's not just him: This entire team has shown that, although they may be down, such as last week's game against SEC foe Georgia, they are certainly not out.The improvement that this Arkansas team has made is quite evident to people around the state.A year ago, Arkansas loses that game. There is no dramatic comeback. Only a defensive fold and another painful loss.All the critics said in the preseason, "Arkansas won't be improved enough on defense."The Hogs D begs to differ.During the Ark-UGA game, the defense forced three and outs, bad passes, and came away with 6 sacks.They currently sit in the top 10 in most every category nationally. But they are looking to build on that and keep on improving.The past few days, this Arkansas Razorback team has sat back and listened to the entire country tell them that they don't stand a chance.Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesThat this game will be "deja vu."I sincerely hope that the Crimson Tide football team shares the same view of most the their fans.I hope that they waltz into DW Reynolds Razorback Stadium thinking: "We got this one in the bag."But we all know that won't be the case.Nick Saban is a phenomenal coach, who will have his team ready to play come Saturday.But don't think for a second that the Arkansas Razorbacks don't stand a fighting chance.After all, this Crimson Tide defense has yet to face an offense like this.Through the first three games this season for Alabama, it has been there. Noticed by opposing coaches, who were unable to exploit it due to lack of player experience and talent.Alabama's young secondary has shown the Arkansas coaching staff all they need to see to at least make this a competitive game. When Alabama played Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
then No. 18 Penn State, true freshman Rob Bolden saw creases in the coverage but didn't have the accuracy or arm strength to make Bama pay for their defensive flaws.That is a different story with Ryan Mallett on deck.Sure, you might sit back and say that the Arkansas Razorbacks don't stand a chance.But I'm sure that Jacksonville State and James Madison were told something similar. Ask Houston Nutt and Frank Beamer how that worked out.
season is in what appears to be a downward spiral, after losing both their starting and second string QBs.Last but not least, the University of Alabama Crimson Tide is No. 1 in the country.One thing is for sure, this will be a huge game.University of Arkansas students began camping outside DW Reynolds Razorback Stadium late Monday night/early Tuesday morning for a game that has been sold out for two weeks.Shortly thereafter, Arkansas students pleaded via Facebook and Twitter, for a "Red Out."However, I do not believe that this will be necessary. The Crimson Tide come to Fayetteville boasting the No. 1 ranking in the nation, so I believe that they would like to keep that intact.The Hogs go into Saturday remembering how they felt after the game a year ago in Tuscaloosa, the trip back, and having to sit and watch the game on film.That game has been on the Razorback players minds throughout last season, leading into this season.Arkansas doesn't need a gimmicky "Red Out" to remind them how big this game is; they don't need a thing with Ryan Mallett in the locker room.If you ask Arkansas' field general about Alabama, he changes his tone.His boyish smile goes away.His chipper happy go lucky attitude fades and a serious, strictly business demeanor comes over him.He remembers completing only 12 of his 35 pass attempts last year, he remembers the pass rush, he remembers looking up at the scoreboard after the game at the 35-7 final.If you would have asked him at the beginning of the season how many wins he predicted his Hogs to win this year, his answer was quick and simple: 14.If you ask him right now, his answer: 14.Ryan Mallett not only wants to change the way the fan base feels about the Arkansas Razorbackshe wants to change the way the nation perceives the Hogs.He brings a winning attitude to Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
a team that has had its share of disappointments and letdowns.He was a Razorback fan in 1998 when an undefeated Arkansas squad took on undefeated Tennessee and lost after Clint Stoerner fumbled in the waning moments, allowing the Volunteers to make a game winning drive.He brings the passion of a life long fan to this Arkansas Razorbacks team.But it's not just him: This entire team has shown that, although they may be down, such as last week's game against SEC foe Georgia, they are certainly not out.The improvement that this Arkansas team has made is quite evident to people around the state.A year ago, Arkansas loses that game. There is no dramatic comeback. Only a defensive fold and another painful loss.All the critics said in the preseason, "Arkansas won't be improved enough on defense."The Hogs D begs to differ.During the Ark-UGA game, the defense forced three and outs, bad passes, and came away with 6 sacks.They currently sit in the top 10 in most every category nationally. But they are looking to build on that and keep on improving.The past few days, this Arkansas Razorback team has sat back and listened to the entire country tell them that they don't stand a chance.Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesThat this game will be "deja vu."I sincerely hope that the Crimson Tide football team shares the same view of most the their fans.I hope that they waltz into DW Reynolds Razorback Stadium thinking: "We got this one in the bag."But we all know that won't be the case.Nick Saban is a phenomenal coach, who will have his team ready to play come Saturday.But don't think for a second that the Arkansas Razorbacks don't stand a fighting chance.After all, this Crimson Tide defense has yet to face an offense like this.Through the first three games this season for Alabama, it has been there. Noticed by opposing coaches, who were unable to exploit it due to lack of player experience and talent.Alabama's young secondary has shown the Arkansas coaching staff all they need to see to at least make this a competitive game. When Alabama played Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
then No. 18 Penn State, true freshman Rob Bolden saw creases in the coverage but didn't have the accuracy or arm strength to make Bama pay for their defensive flaws.That is a different story with Ryan Mallett on deck.Sure, you might sit back and say that the Arkansas Razorbacks don't stand a chance.But I'm sure that Jacksonville State and James Madison were told something similar. Ask Houston Nutt and Frank Beamer how that worked out.
2011年1月15日星期六
15 Jan 11 "St. Louis Rams set to rival, relive Greatest Show on Turf"
The Greatest Show on Turf era's St. Louis Rams boasted a cast of characters whose collection of offensive talent was unlike anything the NFL has ever enjoyed. Unfortunately, age, defections and coaching controversy eventually eroded the greatness of that team. But, for a too brief three-year period, it was sublime fPittsburgh Steelers jersey
or NFL fans.The Rams of today have made some compelling offensive acquisitions thus far this offseason. Already among the top offenses in the league, St. Louis has acquired the services of proven veterans Drew Bennett and Randy McMichael. Adding these weapons to the already impressive offensive toy box means the Rams could now potentially possess an offense that, in terms of talent, rivals the Greatest Show on Turf era (1999-2001). Let's compare the Rams' offense of that glorious era gone by to the 2007 incarnation to see if today's team can truly stack up:Quarterback: Kurt Warner vs. Marc BulgerNow get this straight, Rams fans: For the basis of our comparison we are using the Warner of yesteryear with the uncanny accuracy. Remember him? We're using the QB who would stand resolute in the pocket, take a Jevon Kearse clothesline to the larynx just to get the ball off, magical late '90s Warner. We are not using the backward-bent-thumbs, my-spiky-shorn-wife-wears-the-jockstrap-in-the-family, God-got-me-benched quarterback who is a shell of his former self as a backup with the Arizona Cardinals.Bulger seems to finally be receiving the accolades he so richly deserves and is one of the elite QBs in the game. However, Warner was a touchdown-throwing machine, and Bulger, despite his impressive play, can't stack up to the otherworldly numbers amassed by Warner during that three-year span (12,612 yards, 67.2 average completion percentage, 98 TDs). Advantage: Greatest Show.Number one receiver: Isaac Bruce vs. Torry HoltIf nothing else, Rams fans, you can't complain about the quality of starting wideouts over the last 20 years. From Henry Ellard and Flipper Anderson to Holt and Bruce, the Rams have enjoyed some of the best receivers the game has ever known. It's a difficult proposition at best choosing one Hall of Famer over another in this case, and during the era in question it can be argued that Holt assumed the title of "number one" at some point. Therefore, in light of these facts and as the Bruce of that era and the Holt of today are/were nothing short of incredible, we'll take the coward's way out. Advantage: Wash.Second receiver: Torry Holt vs. Isaac Bruce Holt began his career relatively slow by his standards (788 yards and 6 touchdowns in his rookie season), then proceeded to go on a tear unlike anything the NFL had ever seen, posting 1,300-plus yards for six straight seasons until injuries last year limited him to a "mere" 1,188 yards and 10 touchdowns. However, for the basis of San Diego Chargers jersey
this comparison, we are looking at Holt as the number two during the Greatest Show era and Bruce as the number two of today. Make no mistake: Bruce could be a number one on countless NFL squads even today. He is still among the better route runners in the league and added yet another 1,000-yard season to his collection last year. However, Holt was putting up best-receiver-in-the-league-type numbers when he was a number two, and while still potent, the Bruce of today can't compare. Advantage: Greatest Show.Running Back: Marshall Faulk vs. Steven Jackson Jackson is a rare combination of strength and speed. Like a bull sporting "Predator" dreadlocks, he is equally adept at running around or over an opponent. Faulk was a smaller package, not as strong but quicker with uncanny intelligence and agility. Faulk averaged well over 5 yards per carry in the Greatest Show days and was constantly finding the endzone.Jackson has proven himself to be more than a capable receiver, but Faulk could have just as easily been a wideout in the league. Jackson may get there yet, but Faulk was deservedly the league's MVP. In short, Jackson is spectacular, but Faulk was unreal. Advantage: Greatest Show.Third receiver: Az-Zahir Hakim vs. Drew BennettHakim was exciting in his time with the Rams and made his share of big plays. Bennett is a much larger target but nowhere near as fast as the nimble Hakim. Bennett proved he could be a number one receiver in his time in Tennessee and should be a nightmare to cover when matched against an opponent's third cornerback or linebacker. The difference maker is that Bennett has one turnover in his entire career and Hakim never met a ball he didn't fumble. Advantage: 2007 Rams.Tight end: Ernie Conwell/Roland Williams vs. Randy McMichaelConwell was a willing blocker and Williams was a capable receiver, but neither had a truly significant impact in the Greatest Show years. While only an average blocker, McMichael is an adept receiver who is already proven due to his production in Miami. He could further flourish with the Pro Bowl-caliber Bulger throwing to him. McMichael is the real deal and has the quality role players from the Greatest Show beat. Advantage: 2007 Rams.Offensive Line: Let's see, there's the young, hungry, best tackle in the league inSan Francisco 49ers jersey
Orlando Pace against the still-talented, oft-injured, money-hungry Pace of today. Back then, it was a young veteran line consisting of players like Tom Nutten and Pro Bowler Adam Timmerman against the wet-nosed pups of today. And don't forget the right tackle brothers from different false-starting mothers in Alex Barron and Fred Miller. While today's line shows promise and was instrumental in assisting Steven Jackson to his 1,500-yard breakout season, Bulger still ends up on the turf in a crumpled heap with alarming consistency. The Super Bowl era Rams line was a model of teamwork and usually kept Warner upright despite not getting a lot of help because of their coach's penchant for running four-wide sets and using Faulk so often as a receiver. Advantage: Greatest Show.Fourth receiver: Ricky Proehl vs. ? If not for Proehl's famous acrobatic touchdown grab in the 1999 season's NFC Championship against Tampa Bay, we may never have heard of the Greatest Show at all. It is uncertain whether Dane Looker will assume the number four role or if the Rams will fulfill that need in the draft. Proehl's tangible, quality contributions versus a player to be named later is a no-brainer. Advantage: Greatest Show.Head Coach: Mike Martz vs. Scott Linehan The brazen, near-omnipotent machinations of Mike Martz' "Max Q" offense, or the toned down, methodical approach employed by Scott Linehan? While most fans are happy that Martz was tossed out of Rams Nation on his ear, one thing is certain concerning his time with the club: The former coach's offense is directly responsible for two Super Bowl appearances and one world championship. Even the most ardent Martz detractors must admit to this fact.While the comparison to Linehan may be unfair (considering his body of work consists of only a single season), of the Rams' current head coach we can at least say one thing: that, despite his reputation for offense, he is much more conservative when compared to Mad Mike (although, truth be told, Martz makes Don Coryell look like Chuck Knox). Linehan hasn't exactly been a model of consistency either. Errant coaching decisions must take at least a portion of the blame for both Seattle losses last season. However, Linehan's game management skills show signs of improvement, and unlike Martz, he doesn't burn timeouts because his shoe is untied.When it comes down to it, Martz was the brain behind the golden age of Rams football, and you just can't argue with the Lombardi Trophy (people would think you were crazy). Advantage: Martz Madness.It appears as if the 2007 Rams offense doesn't quite stack up to that of the Greatest Show on Turf, being outclassed 6-2 according to the given criteria. But that doesn't mean they don't belong in the conversation; and while this Seattle Seahawks jersey
comparison doesn't take defense in to account, it seems as if the Rams are one or two competent defensive tackles away from being a contender next year. Perhaps the offense won't be revisiting the glory days of the Greatest Show on Turf, and perhaps there will instead be a need for an entirely new moniker. If the new pieces can jell, though, it's certainly possible. We'll find out in September.**You can e-mail Steve Reynolds at sreynoldsOriginal NFL coverage, courtesy of RealFootball365.com (10)
or NFL fans.The Rams of today have made some compelling offensive acquisitions thus far this offseason. Already among the top offenses in the league, St. Louis has acquired the services of proven veterans Drew Bennett and Randy McMichael. Adding these weapons to the already impressive offensive toy box means the Rams could now potentially possess an offense that, in terms of talent, rivals the Greatest Show on Turf era (1999-2001). Let's compare the Rams' offense of that glorious era gone by to the 2007 incarnation to see if today's team can truly stack up:Quarterback: Kurt Warner vs. Marc BulgerNow get this straight, Rams fans: For the basis of our comparison we are using the Warner of yesteryear with the uncanny accuracy. Remember him? We're using the QB who would stand resolute in the pocket, take a Jevon Kearse clothesline to the larynx just to get the ball off, magical late '90s Warner. We are not using the backward-bent-thumbs, my-spiky-shorn-wife-wears-the-jockstrap-in-the-family, God-got-me-benched quarterback who is a shell of his former self as a backup with the Arizona Cardinals.Bulger seems to finally be receiving the accolades he so richly deserves and is one of the elite QBs in the game. However, Warner was a touchdown-throwing machine, and Bulger, despite his impressive play, can't stack up to the otherworldly numbers amassed by Warner during that three-year span (12,612 yards, 67.2 average completion percentage, 98 TDs). Advantage: Greatest Show.Number one receiver: Isaac Bruce vs. Torry HoltIf nothing else, Rams fans, you can't complain about the quality of starting wideouts over the last 20 years. From Henry Ellard and Flipper Anderson to Holt and Bruce, the Rams have enjoyed some of the best receivers the game has ever known. It's a difficult proposition at best choosing one Hall of Famer over another in this case, and during the era in question it can be argued that Holt assumed the title of "number one" at some point. Therefore, in light of these facts and as the Bruce of that era and the Holt of today are/were nothing short of incredible, we'll take the coward's way out. Advantage: Wash.Second receiver: Torry Holt vs. Isaac Bruce Holt began his career relatively slow by his standards (788 yards and 6 touchdowns in his rookie season), then proceeded to go on a tear unlike anything the NFL had ever seen, posting 1,300-plus yards for six straight seasons until injuries last year limited him to a "mere" 1,188 yards and 10 touchdowns. However, for the basis of San Diego Chargers jersey
this comparison, we are looking at Holt as the number two during the Greatest Show era and Bruce as the number two of today. Make no mistake: Bruce could be a number one on countless NFL squads even today. He is still among the better route runners in the league and added yet another 1,000-yard season to his collection last year. However, Holt was putting up best-receiver-in-the-league-type numbers when he was a number two, and while still potent, the Bruce of today can't compare. Advantage: Greatest Show.Running Back: Marshall Faulk vs. Steven Jackson Jackson is a rare combination of strength and speed. Like a bull sporting "Predator" dreadlocks, he is equally adept at running around or over an opponent. Faulk was a smaller package, not as strong but quicker with uncanny intelligence and agility. Faulk averaged well over 5 yards per carry in the Greatest Show days and was constantly finding the endzone.Jackson has proven himself to be more than a capable receiver, but Faulk could have just as easily been a wideout in the league. Jackson may get there yet, but Faulk was deservedly the league's MVP. In short, Jackson is spectacular, but Faulk was unreal. Advantage: Greatest Show.Third receiver: Az-Zahir Hakim vs. Drew BennettHakim was exciting in his time with the Rams and made his share of big plays. Bennett is a much larger target but nowhere near as fast as the nimble Hakim. Bennett proved he could be a number one receiver in his time in Tennessee and should be a nightmare to cover when matched against an opponent's third cornerback or linebacker. The difference maker is that Bennett has one turnover in his entire career and Hakim never met a ball he didn't fumble. Advantage: 2007 Rams.Tight end: Ernie Conwell/Roland Williams vs. Randy McMichaelConwell was a willing blocker and Williams was a capable receiver, but neither had a truly significant impact in the Greatest Show years. While only an average blocker, McMichael is an adept receiver who is already proven due to his production in Miami. He could further flourish with the Pro Bowl-caliber Bulger throwing to him. McMichael is the real deal and has the quality role players from the Greatest Show beat. Advantage: 2007 Rams.Offensive Line: Let's see, there's the young, hungry, best tackle in the league inSan Francisco 49ers jersey
Orlando Pace against the still-talented, oft-injured, money-hungry Pace of today. Back then, it was a young veteran line consisting of players like Tom Nutten and Pro Bowler Adam Timmerman against the wet-nosed pups of today. And don't forget the right tackle brothers from different false-starting mothers in Alex Barron and Fred Miller. While today's line shows promise and was instrumental in assisting Steven Jackson to his 1,500-yard breakout season, Bulger still ends up on the turf in a crumpled heap with alarming consistency. The Super Bowl era Rams line was a model of teamwork and usually kept Warner upright despite not getting a lot of help because of their coach's penchant for running four-wide sets and using Faulk so often as a receiver. Advantage: Greatest Show.Fourth receiver: Ricky Proehl vs. ? If not for Proehl's famous acrobatic touchdown grab in the 1999 season's NFC Championship against Tampa Bay, we may never have heard of the Greatest Show at all. It is uncertain whether Dane Looker will assume the number four role or if the Rams will fulfill that need in the draft. Proehl's tangible, quality contributions versus a player to be named later is a no-brainer. Advantage: Greatest Show.Head Coach: Mike Martz vs. Scott Linehan The brazen, near-omnipotent machinations of Mike Martz' "Max Q" offense, or the toned down, methodical approach employed by Scott Linehan? While most fans are happy that Martz was tossed out of Rams Nation on his ear, one thing is certain concerning his time with the club: The former coach's offense is directly responsible for two Super Bowl appearances and one world championship. Even the most ardent Martz detractors must admit to this fact.While the comparison to Linehan may be unfair (considering his body of work consists of only a single season), of the Rams' current head coach we can at least say one thing: that, despite his reputation for offense, he is much more conservative when compared to Mad Mike (although, truth be told, Martz makes Don Coryell look like Chuck Knox). Linehan hasn't exactly been a model of consistency either. Errant coaching decisions must take at least a portion of the blame for both Seattle losses last season. However, Linehan's game management skills show signs of improvement, and unlike Martz, he doesn't burn timeouts because his shoe is untied.When it comes down to it, Martz was the brain behind the golden age of Rams football, and you just can't argue with the Lombardi Trophy (people would think you were crazy). Advantage: Martz Madness.It appears as if the 2007 Rams offense doesn't quite stack up to that of the Greatest Show on Turf, being outclassed 6-2 according to the given criteria. But that doesn't mean they don't belong in the conversation; and while this Seattle Seahawks jersey
comparison doesn't take defense in to account, it seems as if the Rams are one or two competent defensive tackles away from being a contender next year. Perhaps the offense won't be revisiting the glory days of the Greatest Show on Turf, and perhaps there will instead be a need for an entirely new moniker. If the new pieces can jell, though, it's certainly possible. We'll find out in September.**You can e-mail Steve Reynolds at sreynoldsOriginal NFL coverage, courtesy of RealFootball365.com (10)
2011年1月13日星期四
14 Jan 11 Saints defense comes through in win
The Dallas Cowboys might have to rethink their plans for the rest of the season. It's tough to consider yourself a playoff contender after scoring only one penalty-aided touchdown at home against the league's worst defense. Deuce McAllister ran for two touchdowns, John Carney kicked two field goals and Joe Horn added a 31-yard touchdown catch in the closing minutes, carrying the New Orleans Saints to a 27-13 victory that seriously dampened the Cowboys' wild-card chances. Dallas (5-8) had won consecutive games, including a thrilling New York Giants jersey
43-39 victory over Seattle on Monday night. With running back Julius Jones reviving the offense, Cowboys coach Bill Parcells said his team was peaking at the right time. Instead of continuing the momentum, Dallas lost at home to a team that had lost three straight and was more curious about its coach's status than its playoff possibilities. The Saints (5-8) also wound up with their first road win over the Cowboys in 10 tries. While Dallas has lost five games by at least 18 points this season, including drubbings by Philadelphia and Green Bay, this one will hurt more because of what was at stake -- and because it was so winnable. The Cowboys led 10-0 after one quarter, but managed only one field goal the rest of the game. An offense that put up 22 points in the fourth quarter against the Seahawks six days earlier hardly spent any time across midfield over the final three quarters. Most of the boos were for Vinny Testaverde, who was 14-of-35 for 167 yards with an interception that set up New Orleans' first touchdown and a fumble that ended a Dallas drive withNew York Jets jersey
1:40 left and the Cowboys trailing by a touchdown. Two plays later, Aaron Brooks hit Horn on the right sideline. He leaped over cornerback Terence Newman and went into the end zone, then celebrated by running to a sign and running a finger under the words "Remember Our Troops." What the Cowboys will remember is all the blown opportunities. They could've been up 21-0 after their first three drives, but wasted the first one with a missed field goal after getting to the 19, then got just a field goal after reaching the 18 next time. Dallas will have to win its final three just to break even and hope that's good enough to keep up Parcells' streak of always making the playoffs in his second season with a team. It won't be easy: next up is Philadelphia. The Saints were shut out in the first quarter for an 11th straight game, then tied it at 10 just before halftime. They matched Dallas at 13 midway through the third quarter and went ahead on a 5-yard TD run by McAllister with 5:21 left. McAllister ran a season-high 30 times for 83 yards and caught four passes for 37. Horn Oakland Raiders jersey
had 84 yards on five catches and Donte Stallworth had 113 yards on five catches. Brooks was 18-of-31 for 252 yards with two interceptions, the first coming in the end zone when New Orleans trailed 10-0. Dallas' Jones gained 88 yards on 23 carries, ending his NFL record-tying streak of three straight games with at least 30 rushes.
43-39 victory over Seattle on Monday night. With running back Julius Jones reviving the offense, Cowboys coach Bill Parcells said his team was peaking at the right time. Instead of continuing the momentum, Dallas lost at home to a team that had lost three straight and was more curious about its coach's status than its playoff possibilities. The Saints (5-8) also wound up with their first road win over the Cowboys in 10 tries. While Dallas has lost five games by at least 18 points this season, including drubbings by Philadelphia and Green Bay, this one will hurt more because of what was at stake -- and because it was so winnable. The Cowboys led 10-0 after one quarter, but managed only one field goal the rest of the game. An offense that put up 22 points in the fourth quarter against the Seahawks six days earlier hardly spent any time across midfield over the final three quarters. Most of the boos were for Vinny Testaverde, who was 14-of-35 for 167 yards with an interception that set up New Orleans' first touchdown and a fumble that ended a Dallas drive withNew York Jets jersey
1:40 left and the Cowboys trailing by a touchdown. Two plays later, Aaron Brooks hit Horn on the right sideline. He leaped over cornerback Terence Newman and went into the end zone, then celebrated by running to a sign and running a finger under the words "Remember Our Troops." What the Cowboys will remember is all the blown opportunities. They could've been up 21-0 after their first three drives, but wasted the first one with a missed field goal after getting to the 19, then got just a field goal after reaching the 18 next time. Dallas will have to win its final three just to break even and hope that's good enough to keep up Parcells' streak of always making the playoffs in his second season with a team. It won't be easy: next up is Philadelphia. The Saints were shut out in the first quarter for an 11th straight game, then tied it at 10 just before halftime. They matched Dallas at 13 midway through the third quarter and went ahead on a 5-yard TD run by McAllister with 5:21 left. McAllister ran a season-high 30 times for 83 yards and caught four passes for 37. Horn Oakland Raiders jersey
had 84 yards on five catches and Donte Stallworth had 113 yards on five catches. Brooks was 18-of-31 for 252 yards with two interceptions, the first coming in the end zone when New Orleans trailed 10-0. Dallas' Jones gained 88 yards on 23 carries, ending his NFL record-tying streak of three straight games with at least 30 rushes.
2011年1月12日星期三
13 Jan 11 Will Rudy Fernandez Play Tonight?
Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesAccording to oregonlive.com: In the latest news today, January 13, 2010, Rudy Fernandez is announced probable for tonight's game against the Bucks.Rudy underwent a microdiscectomy on December 8 and has not played since December 1. OnTuesday he saidthat he hopes to play between 10 and 15 minutesagainst the Bucks.How will Rudy help Portland tonight and throughout the season?Rudy's clutch three-point shot is a blessing from above; he can and will greatly contribute to the Blazers tonight. He has the ability to shoot, pass, andReebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
score, score, score. His defense is not bad either. Even though he will be fresh off an injury, I hope to see him play. He may be so-so at first, but most likely will be the same Rudy we truly missed by the second quarter.Patty Mills has been sent back to the D-League to play for the Idaho Stampede. He averaged 30 points in the two games he played for the Stampede earlier this season.A few Blazer summaries of the season...Brandon Roy is averaging 23.5 points per game this season, in 39.1 minutes a game. Andre Miller has an average of 12 points per game and 4.9 assists in 28.7 minutes.LaMarcus Aldridge has an average of 15.7 points per game and 7.9 rebounds. He plays about 35 minutes a game.Juwan Howard is averaging 5.3 points per game with 3.8 rebounds. Jerryd Bayless is putting up 8.7 points per game with 2.2 assists this season.The Blazers are currently sixth in the west; they are above .500 with a record of 23-16. They are second in the Northwest Division, behind fourth in the West, the Denver Nuggets. Portland is likely to make the playoffs for the second year in a row, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
despite their injuries.Portland will still be missing Travis Outlaw, Nicolas Batum, Greg Oden and Joel Pryzbilla. Hopefully Rudy will be back and getting his minutes. The Blazers aim to make a run to the end. RIP City fans are the best and will encourage and support the Blazers through the fight to the playoffs.
score, score, score. His defense is not bad either. Even though he will be fresh off an injury, I hope to see him play. He may be so-so at first, but most likely will be the same Rudy we truly missed by the second quarter.Patty Mills has been sent back to the D-League to play for the Idaho Stampede. He averaged 30 points in the two games he played for the Stampede earlier this season.A few Blazer summaries of the season...Brandon Roy is averaging 23.5 points per game this season, in 39.1 minutes a game. Andre Miller has an average of 12 points per game and 4.9 assists in 28.7 minutes.LaMarcus Aldridge has an average of 15.7 points per game and 7.9 rebounds. He plays about 35 minutes a game.Juwan Howard is averaging 5.3 points per game with 3.8 rebounds. Jerryd Bayless is putting up 8.7 points per game with 2.2 assists this season.The Blazers are currently sixth in the west; they are above .500 with a record of 23-16. They are second in the Northwest Division, behind fourth in the West, the Denver Nuggets. Portland is likely to make the playoffs for the second year in a row, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
despite their injuries.Portland will still be missing Travis Outlaw, Nicolas Batum, Greg Oden and Joel Pryzbilla. Hopefully Rudy will be back and getting his minutes. The Blazers aim to make a run to the end. RIP City fans are the best and will encourage and support the Blazers through the fight to the playoffs.
13 Jan 11 Will Rudy Fernandez Play Tonight?
Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesAccording to oregonlive.com: In the latest news today, January 13, 2010, Rudy Fernandez is announced probable for tonight's game against the Bucks.Rudy underwent a microdiscectomy on December 8 and has not played since December 1. OnTuesday he saidthat he hopes to play between 10 and 15 minutesagainst the Bucks.How will Rudy help Portland tonight and throughout the season?Rudy's clutch three-point shot is a blessing from above; he can and will greatly contribute to the Blazers tonight. He has the ability to shoot, pass, andReebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
score, score, score. His defense is not bad either. Even though he will be fresh off an injury, I hope to see him play. He may be so-so at first, but most likely will be the same Rudy we truly missed by the second quarter.Patty Mills has been sent back to the D-League to play for the Idaho Stampede. He averaged 30 points in the two games he played for the Stampede earlier this season.A few Blazer summaries of the season...Brandon Roy is averaging 23.5 points per game this season, in 39.1 minutes a game. Andre Miller has an average of 12 points per game and 4.9 assists in 28.7 minutes.LaMarcus Aldridge has an average of 15.7 points per game and 7.9 rebounds. He plays about 35 minutes a game.Juwan Howard is averaging 5.3 points per game with 3.8 rebounds. Jerryd Bayless is putting up 8.7 points per game with 2.2 assists this season.The Blazers are currently sixth in the west; they are above .500 with a record of 23-16. They are second in the Northwest Division, behind fourth in the West, the Denver Nuggets. Portland is likely to make the playoffs for the second year in a row, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
despite their injuries.Portland will still be missing Travis Outlaw, Nicolas Batum, Greg Oden and Joel Pryzbilla. Hopefully Rudy will be back and getting his minutes. The Blazers aim to make a run to the end. RIP City fans are the best and will encourage and support the Blazers through the fight to the playoffs.
score, score, score. His defense is not bad either. Even though he will be fresh off an injury, I hope to see him play. He may be so-so at first, but most likely will be the same Rudy we truly missed by the second quarter.Patty Mills has been sent back to the D-League to play for the Idaho Stampede. He averaged 30 points in the two games he played for the Stampede earlier this season.A few Blazer summaries of the season...Brandon Roy is averaging 23.5 points per game this season, in 39.1 minutes a game. Andre Miller has an average of 12 points per game and 4.9 assists in 28.7 minutes.LaMarcus Aldridge has an average of 15.7 points per game and 7.9 rebounds. He plays about 35 minutes a game.Juwan Howard is averaging 5.3 points per game with 3.8 rebounds. Jerryd Bayless is putting up 8.7 points per game with 2.2 assists this season.The Blazers are currently sixth in the west; they are above .500 with a record of 23-16. They are second in the Northwest Division, behind fourth in the West, the Denver Nuggets. Portland is likely to make the playoffs for the second year in a row, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
despite their injuries.Portland will still be missing Travis Outlaw, Nicolas Batum, Greg Oden and Joel Pryzbilla. Hopefully Rudy will be back and getting his minutes. The Blazers aim to make a run to the end. RIP City fans are the best and will encourage and support the Blazers through the fight to the playoffs.
12 Jan 11 NBA All Star Reserves Revealed
Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesWhile the official 2010 NBA All-Star reserves will not be made until later today, Yahoo Sports has reportedly acquired the list of reserves, and there are some major snubs in both the East and Western Conferences, but lets start with the guys who made the cut.EASTERN CONFERENCE:Guards: Derrick Rose and Rajon Rondo will make their All-Star game debuts February 14.Guard/Forwards: Paul Pierce, Joe Johnson, Gerald WallaceForward/Center: Chris Bosh, Al Horford.Left off the Chicago Bears jersey
the team is New York Knicks standout David Lee who has 26 double-doubles this season and is leading all centers in the east in scoring and assists per game. Lee also ranks third in rebounds.WESTERN CONFERENCE:Guards: Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Brandon RoyForward: Kevin Durant, Dirk NowitzkiForward/Center: Pau Gasol, Zack Randolph.Guards Chauncey Billups and Monta Ellis were left off this years roster, as well as Clippers' center Chris Kaman.
the team is New York Knicks standout David Lee who has 26 double-doubles this season and is leading all centers in the east in scoring and assists per game. Lee also ranks third in rebounds.WESTERN CONFERENCE:Guards: Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Brandon RoyForward: Kevin Durant, Dirk NowitzkiForward/Center: Pau Gasol, Zack Randolph.Guards Chauncey Billups and Monta Ellis were left off this years roster, as well as Clippers' center Chris Kaman.
12 Jan 11 Are You Joakim: Noah Should Be On The NBA All-Star Team
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesI suppose I shouldn't be greedy with Derrick Rose becoming the Chicago Bulls first all-star since Michael Jordan in 1998, but I really think Joakim Noah got jobbed not making the team.Whatsteams me even more is that his former Florida teammate, Al Horford, beat him out for the post position.For a guy who lookedlike Bozo on draft day, Noah is no clown.Comparing the two, Horford averages 13.6 ppg along with 9.8 rebounds and 1.3 blocks. Noah is at 11.3 ppg with 12.1 rebounds and 1.7 blocks.Looking at the numbers you might not think there is much of a difference and statistically there isn't. But when you watch them play on the court, there is no doubt who the more valuable player to his team is.Noah is the second best player on the Bulls, and until Rose recovered from his preseason injury and got back to full strength, he was the one keeping them in the race.Horford is maybe the fourth best player on Atlanta; definitely behind Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, and Jamal Crawford.You also have to take into consideration the magnitude of the numbers pertaining to the position. Rebounding, blocked shots, and defense are more important to the post position than scoring, and Horford is only averaging a bucket more a game than Noah.His numbers are very pedestrian for a center, especially when you take his rebound numbers into account.Noah is second in the league in that category. He wipes theglass clean on the defensive end, and he's like the energizer bunny on the offensive boards, constantly hopping around until he either tips in the bucket or gets it out to a teammate for another shot.An intangible that doesn't show on paper is his hustle. Is there a player in the league that plays harder on a daily basis than Joakim Noah? If you're watching the Bullsday in and out, I know your answer is no.He's also vastly improved as an offensive player. He can put the ball on the floor and drive to the hole and finish. He's also got a couple ofnice moves around the basket along with a baby hook that is effective.I know he's got one of the ugliest outside shots in the NBA, and based on that shot, he looks like he just started playing the game, but it's also starting to go in more often. It doesn't matter what it looks like as long as it goes down.Or course as always, there are outcries from other cities that their players didn't make the team.The "Big Apple" is crying over the exclusion of David Lee and I can't blame them. He's another player that goes all out and probably deserved to make the team, but I think the system he plays under with the Knicks and Mike D'Antoni tends to pad statistics. I don't think he would have those numbers if he played for someone else.People say Horford's teammate Josh Smith should have made the team, but for the position he played, his numbers are nothing special. Looking spectacular at times doesn't warrant an all-star berth. Otherwise Tyrus Thomas of the Bullswould be on the squad.There are a few other players including Andrew Bogut of the Milwaukee Bucks that were mentioned as possible omissions.NBA.com had a poll of the East's biggest snubs and Noah, Lee, Smith, and Bogut were on it with Lee getting 42% of the vote, Smith 41%, Noah at 10% and Bogut at 8%.Obviously the voting was based on numbers, which should not be the only criteria when selecting a player for the team.Sean Devaney of Sporting News Today even had the gall to suggest Derrick Rose shouldn't have made the team. In his blog, he said, "As nice a season as Rose has had, he really shouldn't have been an all-star, not yet, at least."He continued with "putting him on the team, coaches who voted for the reserves ignored more worthy candidates."He then went on to name Josh Smith and two players from the Western Conference that Derrick Rose had no influence over.Without Derrick Rose, the Chicago Bulls would be the New Jersey Nets.Why not name the aforementioned Horford who denied his teammate Smith?What about Paul Pierce, who made the team on reputation and isn't really an all-star anymore?The bottom line is there are always going to be debates about who should have made the team. Fans are going to be homers andback their home town favorites.You could accuse me of that too.But watching Noah play this year, and looking at his competition in the East, no one can tell me he didn't belong on the team.
2011年1月10日星期一
10 Jan 11 Can the Knicks sign Bron and Melo?
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesWhile the 2011 market may not have as many stars, it isn lacking in big names, either. Carmelo Anthony, Pau Gasol , Caron Butler, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker , David West and Tayshaun Prince could all be changing zip codes two summers from now.-ESPNThe Knicks put themselves in position to sign two max players and re-sign David Lee in the off-season. However, if they sign one player like a Lebron , Bosh , Wade , Amare or Joe Johnson they could sign another player in 2011. In a perfect world all Knicks fans would like to see James and Anthony on the Knicks. Donnie Walsh should not feel pressured to sign two players to max deals this summer if he feels they would not be a good fit. Walsh also needs to spend money wisely on roster Minnesota Vikings
slots because they traded their 2012 first-round pick in the Tracy McGrady deal.How can this work:1) Eddy Curry has an expiring contract next season ($11.2 million)2) Knicks do not have a first round pick in 2012 (no salary against the cap)3) Melo has an ETO in his contract (early termination option)4) The Knicks have an estimated $31.5 million available in cap space (first time in 14 years they have been under the cap)5) Sergio Rodriguez can be retained by exercising a $2.3 million qualifying offer (good deal for a potential starting point guard)
slots because they traded their 2012 first-round pick in the Tracy McGrady deal.How can this work:1) Eddy Curry has an expiring contract next season ($11.2 million)2) Knicks do not have a first round pick in 2012 (no salary against the cap)3) Melo has an ETO in his contract (early termination option)4) The Knicks have an estimated $31.5 million available in cap space (first time in 14 years they have been under the cap)5) Sergio Rodriguez can be retained by exercising a $2.3 million qualifying offer (good deal for a potential starting point guard)
2011年1月9日星期日
9 Jan 11 Keys To The Wolf Den: Al Jefferson's Charge Will Speak Volumes About Wolves
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesThe Minnesota Timberwolves suffered a setback when the Timberwolves star Al Jefferson was arrested for a DWI, pending a court charge in April, and followed by a two-game suspension that will leave the Wolves without their leading scorer, andsecondleading rebounder."I want to apologize to the entire Timberwolves organization, owner Glen Taylor, my teammates, coaches and Wolves fans everywhere for my actions last night. I made a very poor decision and I am truly sorry for that. As a leader on this team, I know that more is Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
expected of me, and I am disappointed in myself. I will learn from my mistake so that it does not happen again. I fully understand and support the organization's disciplinary action. I will continue to work both on and off the court to be the best person I can be."Without Jefferson, the Minnesota Timberwolves will rely on Ryan Gomes, Ryan Hollins, Kevin Love, and Darko Milicic to contribute in the frontcourtespecially Love.Love, arguably the best rebounding power forward in the NBA, is averaging 15 PPGand 11 RPG, shooting 46 percent from the field and 39 percent from the three-point line. He's only 21 years old and clearly has all-star potential written all over him. Although extremely talented, Love has only played 35-plus minutes twice this season, and seeing that he's only averaging 29 MPG, his production per/40 is leading the NBA in rebounds.Slam Magazine has stated that Love is the Wolves future star; his numbers would suggest so, and possibly an increased role seeing that Jefferson is out. This will provide a small sample as to how the Wolves will look with Love playing the majority of the minutes at the power forward position.Love does a ton of fundamental things, such as boxing out much bigger opponents, throwing outlet passes, and making an honest effort on the defensive end. It will be interesting to see how Love will handle more minutes. But he won't be alone.Milicic, acquired with cash considerations for Brian Cardinal, has helped the Wolves in more fundamental ways, providing size and unorthodox play to compliment very little knowledge in the triangle offense, yet is enough to blend in because of his basketball I.Q.Having not played for three months, Milicic gets winded within 10 minutes of intense basketball play, but despite that has averaged 4.4 PPG, 5.0 RPG, and 2.2 BPGReebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
in 20 MPG.It's possible that the production, stats wise, are limited due to his conditioning, but as a Timberwolf, he's already leading the Wolves in blocks, and still has to get acclimated to the triangle offense that took the Wolves two months to crack 100-plus points on a regular basis.These two games should provide the young Wolves with a sense of urgency, hopefully using these last 20 games as a learning experience to get ready for next season. With that being said, here should be the lineup for the next two games.PG- Flynn/SessionsSG- Brewer/EllingtonSF- Gomes/BrewerPF- Love/GomesC- Hollins/MilicicThanks for reading!
expected of me, and I am disappointed in myself. I will learn from my mistake so that it does not happen again. I fully understand and support the organization's disciplinary action. I will continue to work both on and off the court to be the best person I can be."Without Jefferson, the Minnesota Timberwolves will rely on Ryan Gomes, Ryan Hollins, Kevin Love, and Darko Milicic to contribute in the frontcourtespecially Love.Love, arguably the best rebounding power forward in the NBA, is averaging 15 PPGand 11 RPG, shooting 46 percent from the field and 39 percent from the three-point line. He's only 21 years old and clearly has all-star potential written all over him. Although extremely talented, Love has only played 35-plus minutes twice this season, and seeing that he's only averaging 29 MPG, his production per/40 is leading the NBA in rebounds.Slam Magazine has stated that Love is the Wolves future star; his numbers would suggest so, and possibly an increased role seeing that Jefferson is out. This will provide a small sample as to how the Wolves will look with Love playing the majority of the minutes at the power forward position.Love does a ton of fundamental things, such as boxing out much bigger opponents, throwing outlet passes, and making an honest effort on the defensive end. It will be interesting to see how Love will handle more minutes. But he won't be alone.Milicic, acquired with cash considerations for Brian Cardinal, has helped the Wolves in more fundamental ways, providing size and unorthodox play to compliment very little knowledge in the triangle offense, yet is enough to blend in because of his basketball I.Q.Having not played for three months, Milicic gets winded within 10 minutes of intense basketball play, but despite that has averaged 4.4 PPG, 5.0 RPG, and 2.2 BPGReebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
in 20 MPG.It's possible that the production, stats wise, are limited due to his conditioning, but as a Timberwolf, he's already leading the Wolves in blocks, and still has to get acclimated to the triangle offense that took the Wolves two months to crack 100-plus points on a regular basis.These two games should provide the young Wolves with a sense of urgency, hopefully using these last 20 games as a learning experience to get ready for next season. With that being said, here should be the lineup for the next two games.PG- Flynn/SessionsSG- Brewer/EllingtonSF- Gomes/BrewerPF- Love/GomesC- Hollins/MilicicThanks for reading!
2011年1月8日星期六
8 Jan 11 The Best and Worst Contracts On The Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers are the NBA's most valuable franchise, both in terms of profitability and popularity.Not only do they reside in the bright lights of Hollywood with the most star-studded roster in the league, but they also have the rings to back it up. The Lakers are not only one of Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
the most successful franchises in all of sports, they are one of the most iconic.Such prosperity can be grown only through the acumen of an owner like Dr. Jerry Buss and the various general managers he's employed. They built two dynasties this past decade, something possible only through a series of outstanding trades, signings, and draft picks.However, not all contracts are created equal.Let's take a look at the best and worst contracts on the Lakers' roster, from worst to best.BASKETBAWFUL CONTRACTS13) Luke Walton: $21.8 million over four years Originally a prize coming out of the second round of the draft, Walton is now the bane of the Lakers' salary cap. He averaged 11 points in 2007 as a starter (alongside Smush Parker and Kwame Brown), which was enough to convince management to blow its entire midlevel exception and lock him up for six years.He's a tremendous passer who's even better in Phil Jackson's system, but they'll be paying him over $6 million in 2013, which is almost Lamar Odom/Ron Artest money. That's more than bad for a, at best, fourth forward off the bench. That's easily the worst contract on the team.Don't fool yourself. Those Luuuuuuuuke! chants that sound like Booooooo! really are boos.12) Sasha Vujacic: $10.5 million, two years Lakers fans thought we had something special. Vujacic still thinks so, and still chucks up a shot every time he catches the ball. In 2008 he shot 43 percent from behind the arc, capping the year with 20 points in Game Three of the NBA Finals.It was a fluke.The Lakers had the choice to use their mid-level exception on him or Ronny Turiaf, and they chose Slovenia's favorite son (and Paris Hilton's bff ) while letting our Caribbean brother walk to Golden State.To add insult to injury, not only is Vujacic ultra-emotional every time he's called for a foul, but his nickname violates the two sacred rules of nicknames: 1) it's lame and 2) it's self-imposed. As such, I'm not even going to type it.After least after his contract is up he can still make money off merchandise (headbands included!).11) Adam Morrison: $5.3 million, one year The worst high draft pick ever because he doesn't even belong in the league. In any role. Anywhere. And he's getting paid more than Kevin Durant. The fact that his contract expires after this season is the only reason he's not the worst contract in the league.MID-LEVELERS10) Derek Fisher: $5 million, one year Fish will never be able to command $5 mil a season again. But he has played out his contract with pride and dignity, and the intangible qualities he's brought to the franchise are worth more than any paycheck he's received.He brought respectability back to the Lakers. Improving the point guard position exponentially when he replaced Smush Parker. Providing a trusting voice when Kobe was sick of the team. And providing a sure, experienced hand in the playoffs.Last year's championship belongs to him as much as anyone. And who can forget that grin in Game 4 of the Finals?With that said, it's time for Fisher to sign at a much lower rate, in a mentoring role with much less time on the court. He could be a valuable asset to the franchise for the next 50 years on the bench, and it's soon time to make that transition.9) Ron Artest: $34 million, five years We got Ron Ron on the cheap. He was once the league's greatest two-way player and is still it's best wing defender. He signed for the mid-level exception despite his All-Star talent because he wanted to come to L.A.We had to compromise a little on the contract, so we gave him Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
the security of five guaranteed years. Artest is an upgrade over Ariza in the short term. He provides a grit and tenacity they've had only in Kobe, while relieving No. 24 of many of his defensive duties.But five years from now, when Artest is 35 and Ariza is in his prime, that contract is going to be an albatross around the Lakers' cap.PERFECTLY ADEQUATE8 7) DJ Mbenga/Josh Powell: $900,000 apiece, one year These guys make the minimum and fulfill their roles. Powell has a nice jumper and Mbenga provides another big body to occasionally spell Pau from bruisers in the league. Plus, the fans love him. You love him even more when you learn more about him .THE FUTURE6) Andrew Bynum: $57.9 million, four years This contract causes the most contention among Lakers fans. NBA fans in general consider him overpaid, but most Lakers fans disagree. I disagree completely. In fact, he's a little underpaid.Bynum is the second most important player on the Lakers, right behind Kobe. He's not the second best, as Pau Gasol is still the better player, but he is the foundation of the franchise's blueprint for the future.Remember, he's still only 22.The last year of his contract is a team option for $16.4 million. You can bet the Lakers will be picking that up. That will be right about the time we transition from the Kobe years to the Bynum years.THE SUPERSTARS5) Pau Gasol: $91.3 million, five years Pau isn't underpaid, but he's still underrated.Absolutely. 100 percent. Underrated. And underappreciated. Still.Try to think back to what things were like before Pau arrived. Back-to-back first-round losses in the playoffs. Forty-two or so wins a year. And Kobe begging to play on Pluto (seriously ).In the two seasons since Pau arrived: 80 percent winning percentage in games he's played, two Finals appearances, one championship, one happy superstar, and a franchise positioned to win multiple championships over multiple years.Case closed.4) Kobe Bryant: $47.8 million over 2 years It goes beyond on-court production. The offseason workouts. The fire he constantly lights under teammates. Kobe is why the Lakers are the league's biggest draw on the road. He has the league's top-selling jersey. He's a bigger celebrity in China than Yao Ming.Dr. Buss knows better than anyone that the product he Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
puts out on the floor can't just be good, it needs to be as big as Hollywood. He needs a star. A star big enough to pull all the stars in Los Angeles inside Staples Center 41 times a year plus playoff games.That's the reason why Kobe couldn't get traded when he demanded a trade. The Lakers would never accept just cap room. They'd never accept just draft picks. Or just prospects. Or a combination of the three.They needed a superstar back. And the only one they could get at that time was... Kobe.He's why fans buy the most expensive tickets in the league to watch the Lakers. He's the one who makes Dr. Buss his money.However, with all that said, I can't say he's the best contract on the Lakers, because it's pretty simple. Kobe's a max player, so he gets paid the max.Although that extension still hasn't been worked out, and with the new collective bargaining agreement brewing and a hard cap potentially looming, maybe things aren't so simple after all.LOW COST, HIGH YIELD PLAYERS3 2 ) Jordan Farmar and Shannon Brown: $4.8 and $4.2 million, respectively, over two years I love these contracts. They are so cheap and both players are so good. The Lakers do have an opening at point guard that Farmar hasn't taken for himself yet. Maybe he's destined to be a backup. Maybe the triangle isn't the best fit for him. Regardless, I like what he brings to the table, especially at that price.The Shannon Brown love in Lakers Nation is hot and heavy. He could have made more money elsewhere, but signed for the low price of $2 million this season to stay with a winner where he was well-liked and had a defined role (see, what Ariza gave up).With his Inspector Gadget-like hops (poor dunk contest showing aside) and a spark pluggy effect off the bench, he's combined with Farmar to make our weakness at point guard more palatable, or at least fun to watch.THE BEST CONTRACT1) Lamar Odom: $32.8 million, four years I'm a hopeless Odom romantic. I gushed about him enough in a previous article, but I remain tantalized by his skill set.He tops off the reason why opposing teams always complain about the "Lakers' length." He's our mismatch. Our game-changer off the bench. And he's been super-underrated in crunch time over the past few years.Dr. Buss played hardball with Odom thisArizona Cardinals jersey
summer over contract negotiations. Fortunately, we didn't lose him. And for a player of his talent, he's on the books for a cool $8 mil per year for four years (with the final year being a team option), which is just long enough to maximize Kobe's final years playing at a high level.Image taken from HoopsHype.What do you guys think? Shout out below, I'd love to hear what Lakers Nation has to say on the subject.
the most successful franchises in all of sports, they are one of the most iconic.Such prosperity can be grown only through the acumen of an owner like Dr. Jerry Buss and the various general managers he's employed. They built two dynasties this past decade, something possible only through a series of outstanding trades, signings, and draft picks.However, not all contracts are created equal.Let's take a look at the best and worst contracts on the Lakers' roster, from worst to best.BASKETBAWFUL CONTRACTS13) Luke Walton: $21.8 million over four years Originally a prize coming out of the second round of the draft, Walton is now the bane of the Lakers' salary cap. He averaged 11 points in 2007 as a starter (alongside Smush Parker and Kwame Brown), which was enough to convince management to blow its entire midlevel exception and lock him up for six years.He's a tremendous passer who's even better in Phil Jackson's system, but they'll be paying him over $6 million in 2013, which is almost Lamar Odom/Ron Artest money. That's more than bad for a, at best, fourth forward off the bench. That's easily the worst contract on the team.Don't fool yourself. Those Luuuuuuuuke! chants that sound like Booooooo! really are boos.12) Sasha Vujacic: $10.5 million, two years Lakers fans thought we had something special. Vujacic still thinks so, and still chucks up a shot every time he catches the ball. In 2008 he shot 43 percent from behind the arc, capping the year with 20 points in Game Three of the NBA Finals.It was a fluke.The Lakers had the choice to use their mid-level exception on him or Ronny Turiaf, and they chose Slovenia's favorite son (and Paris Hilton's bff ) while letting our Caribbean brother walk to Golden State.To add insult to injury, not only is Vujacic ultra-emotional every time he's called for a foul, but his nickname violates the two sacred rules of nicknames: 1) it's lame and 2) it's self-imposed. As such, I'm not even going to type it.After least after his contract is up he can still make money off merchandise (headbands included!).11) Adam Morrison: $5.3 million, one year The worst high draft pick ever because he doesn't even belong in the league. In any role. Anywhere. And he's getting paid more than Kevin Durant. The fact that his contract expires after this season is the only reason he's not the worst contract in the league.MID-LEVELERS10) Derek Fisher: $5 million, one year Fish will never be able to command $5 mil a season again. But he has played out his contract with pride and dignity, and the intangible qualities he's brought to the franchise are worth more than any paycheck he's received.He brought respectability back to the Lakers. Improving the point guard position exponentially when he replaced Smush Parker. Providing a trusting voice when Kobe was sick of the team. And providing a sure, experienced hand in the playoffs.Last year's championship belongs to him as much as anyone. And who can forget that grin in Game 4 of the Finals?With that said, it's time for Fisher to sign at a much lower rate, in a mentoring role with much less time on the court. He could be a valuable asset to the franchise for the next 50 years on the bench, and it's soon time to make that transition.9) Ron Artest: $34 million, five years We got Ron Ron on the cheap. He was once the league's greatest two-way player and is still it's best wing defender. He signed for the mid-level exception despite his All-Star talent because he wanted to come to L.A.We had to compromise a little on the contract, so we gave him Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
the security of five guaranteed years. Artest is an upgrade over Ariza in the short term. He provides a grit and tenacity they've had only in Kobe, while relieving No. 24 of many of his defensive duties.But five years from now, when Artest is 35 and Ariza is in his prime, that contract is going to be an albatross around the Lakers' cap.PERFECTLY ADEQUATE8 7) DJ Mbenga/Josh Powell: $900,000 apiece, one year These guys make the minimum and fulfill their roles. Powell has a nice jumper and Mbenga provides another big body to occasionally spell Pau from bruisers in the league. Plus, the fans love him. You love him even more when you learn more about him .THE FUTURE6) Andrew Bynum: $57.9 million, four years This contract causes the most contention among Lakers fans. NBA fans in general consider him overpaid, but most Lakers fans disagree. I disagree completely. In fact, he's a little underpaid.Bynum is the second most important player on the Lakers, right behind Kobe. He's not the second best, as Pau Gasol is still the better player, but he is the foundation of the franchise's blueprint for the future.Remember, he's still only 22.The last year of his contract is a team option for $16.4 million. You can bet the Lakers will be picking that up. That will be right about the time we transition from the Kobe years to the Bynum years.THE SUPERSTARS5) Pau Gasol: $91.3 million, five years Pau isn't underpaid, but he's still underrated.Absolutely. 100 percent. Underrated. And underappreciated. Still.Try to think back to what things were like before Pau arrived. Back-to-back first-round losses in the playoffs. Forty-two or so wins a year. And Kobe begging to play on Pluto (seriously ).In the two seasons since Pau arrived: 80 percent winning percentage in games he's played, two Finals appearances, one championship, one happy superstar, and a franchise positioned to win multiple championships over multiple years.Case closed.4) Kobe Bryant: $47.8 million over 2 years It goes beyond on-court production. The offseason workouts. The fire he constantly lights under teammates. Kobe is why the Lakers are the league's biggest draw on the road. He has the league's top-selling jersey. He's a bigger celebrity in China than Yao Ming.Dr. Buss knows better than anyone that the product he Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
puts out on the floor can't just be good, it needs to be as big as Hollywood. He needs a star. A star big enough to pull all the stars in Los Angeles inside Staples Center 41 times a year plus playoff games.That's the reason why Kobe couldn't get traded when he demanded a trade. The Lakers would never accept just cap room. They'd never accept just draft picks. Or just prospects. Or a combination of the three.They needed a superstar back. And the only one they could get at that time was... Kobe.He's why fans buy the most expensive tickets in the league to watch the Lakers. He's the one who makes Dr. Buss his money.However, with all that said, I can't say he's the best contract on the Lakers, because it's pretty simple. Kobe's a max player, so he gets paid the max.Although that extension still hasn't been worked out, and with the new collective bargaining agreement brewing and a hard cap potentially looming, maybe things aren't so simple after all.LOW COST, HIGH YIELD PLAYERS3 2 ) Jordan Farmar and Shannon Brown: $4.8 and $4.2 million, respectively, over two years I love these contracts. They are so cheap and both players are so good. The Lakers do have an opening at point guard that Farmar hasn't taken for himself yet. Maybe he's destined to be a backup. Maybe the triangle isn't the best fit for him. Regardless, I like what he brings to the table, especially at that price.The Shannon Brown love in Lakers Nation is hot and heavy. He could have made more money elsewhere, but signed for the low price of $2 million this season to stay with a winner where he was well-liked and had a defined role (see, what Ariza gave up).With his Inspector Gadget-like hops (poor dunk contest showing aside) and a spark pluggy effect off the bench, he's combined with Farmar to make our weakness at point guard more palatable, or at least fun to watch.THE BEST CONTRACT1) Lamar Odom: $32.8 million, four years I'm a hopeless Odom romantic. I gushed about him enough in a previous article, but I remain tantalized by his skill set.He tops off the reason why opposing teams always complain about the "Lakers' length." He's our mismatch. Our game-changer off the bench. And he's been super-underrated in crunch time over the past few years.Dr. Buss played hardball with Odom thisArizona Cardinals jersey
summer over contract negotiations. Fortunately, we didn't lose him. And for a player of his talent, he's on the books for a cool $8 mil per year for four years (with the final year being a team option), which is just long enough to maximize Kobe's final years playing at a high level.Image taken from HoopsHype.What do you guys think? Shout out below, I'd love to hear what Lakers Nation has to say on the subject.
2010年12月30日星期四
30 Dec 10 Karma Sours Michael Finley's Decision to Go Green
Elsa/Getty ImagesHis assigned mission complete, Michael Finley did what many in his shoes would have done.All but locked out of the rotation thanks to a youth movement at his dual positions, he asked the Spurs brass to waive him. Doc Rivers promised the extra key Gregg Popovich could not.Finley plays sporadic reserve minutes in a Celtics uniform, but nothing he does can resuscitate Kevin Garnett or keep Paul Pierce from dancing closer to the injured list. The 37-year-old guard faced a similar grim reality in San Antonio.Two months ago, many wondered if Manu Ginobili was more washed up than a warehouse full of haywire Maytag machines. Then, Richard Jefferson looked disastrous and so did the Spurs title hopes.Maybe Finley wanted to escape the eye of the Carolina Panthers jersey
storm. He did not want to drown in the inevitable capsizing.The veteran shooter might still pack a clutch punch or two, but he won hurt San Antonio much as a bench cog in the Eastern Conference.The Celtics appear as shipwrecked as any wannabe contender, and Finley cannot repair the rudders or plug the gaping hole in the vessel left side.The Spurs-Celtics Finals a number of analysts predictedlast summer appears less likely than Danny Devito winning a world tallest man competition.Finley value was never going to be realized in the regular season. When it comes to taking a shot with the team down by three or two points with five seconds left, he in a rare class.He nailed eight three-pointers in a series clincher against the Denver Nuggets in the 2007 Playoffs.He sent the Spurs 2008 playoff opener against the Phoenix Suns into overtime with a triple. He knotted the team eventual Southwest Division clincher last spring with another trey. That shot set up a fateful first-round series with the Dallas Mavericks.How he left befits how he arrived. In 2005, Phoenix and Atlanta delivered pitches worthy of an international dignitary. Finley chose the Spurs because he appreciated Popovich low-key, direct approach.Finley surprised many then. He did it again in March when he informed his coach he wanted out.Always the consummate professional, no one can question the sincerity of Finley request. He still wanted to play, and Boston needed a better backup for Ray Allen.That does not lessen the difficulty of this sorrowful goodbye. The San Antonio community adopted him as a native son, forgetting his All-Star years in Dallas. He seemed destined to retire in silver and black at season's end.Instead, Jefferson started to show he could be everything Popovich wanted, and George Hill emerged as an explosive scorer and defender.Ineffective since an ankle sprain sidelined him for more than a month, Finley was not going to play much behind Jefferson, Hill, Ginobili, or Roger Mason Jr.His numbers in February suggested he could not have contributed much. He scored five points over a 28-day period and froze like a statue on the defensive end. He did not move, and the Spurs stayed with him in seventh place.San AntonioChicago Bears jersey
played its best basketball of the season in March, navigating a brutal schedule without All-NBA point guard Tony Parker.Friday night, karma bit Finley in the worst way. No one would argue he deserved it.With the Celtics up two on the crippled Houston Rockets, Finley headed to the line with a chance to ice the game.He made the first freebie but clanged the second. Rockets rookie Jordan Hill fought off two Boston defenders to secure the manliest rebound of the night.Aaron Brooks, then, drained a game-tying three that might have made Jerry West blush. Yes, the Celtics could have fouled, or forced Brooks to drive into the teeth of the defense.Finley and Tony Allen bricked critical foul shots. Doesn that matter more than everything else?As the former All-Star missed the free throw that would have put the game out of reach, he likely remembered a similar night in mid-March last season.Then, as the Manu Ginobili-less Spurs tried to fend off the defending champion Celtics in a slugfest at the ATT Center, Finley and Parker combined to earn three chances in the final minutes to seal a momentous win at the charity stripe.Finley, shooting in the high 80s at the time, missed four in a row. Parker clanged his tries. An emerging Glen Big Baby Davis sank the go-ahead baseline jumper to seal a painful choke job on the part of San Antonio. The Spurs and the C word in the same sentence?Giving Davis a shot from that distance, then, was a stroke of defensive genius. Given the same shots against the L.A. Lakers in an overtime game earlier in the month, he missed four of five badly.Davis began to hit that shot with regularity, and heeventually used the improved stroke to knot a second-round series with the Magic. His game-winner seemed to cement him as an integral piece for Boston.The Spurs' gag job at the foul line in March only made them look older and unequipped to compete for a title.Kevin Garnett played sparingly in the game. Bruce Bowen suffocated Paul Pierce, who finished 3-of-15 from the field.Ginobili wasn available to swipe another inbounds pass to seal the outcome. Roger Mason Jr. could not produce another dramatic clutch triumph.Finley had to know what was coming. The Spurs needed to unearth younger contributors, while returning to the stingy defense of years past.Finley legs had started to buckle, and his zapped athleticism proved a nightly drain on the team defensive harmony.Popovich should have known he was doomed against the Mavericks the moment Finley tried to hang with Josh Howard.Finley soldiered through the summer and training camp, insisting the acquisition of Jefferson excited him. Competing for championships mattered more than individual glory, heCincinnati Bengals jersey
said.In November and December, with Jefferson stuck in the mud, it looked as if Finley would always own at least a tokenrole as a Spur.Then, Hill continued to show he merited more minutes, Ginobili started to look like Ginobili, and Jefferson found a clue. The game changed, and so did Finley.If he compared the Celtics and Spurs in early March, and liked the championship chances for the guys in green better, no one would have declared him insane.This last week full of endgamefutilityshould make him sick.His old team slammed his new one Sunday night at TD Banknorth Garden 94-73. A fledgling but overachieving squad from Oklahoma City stole a 109-104 victory right from Garnett furious, activehands.The Rockets injury list upon arrival at Boston Logan Airport had become longer than Pinocchio nose. Kevin Martin, Shane Battier, David Andersen, and Jared Jefferies were unavailable. Trevor Ariza joined them on the inactive listat the last minute with the flu.Finley had a chance to make Houston gritty effort moot by converting two free throws. Instead, karma reared its ugly head.A moving screen call on Kendrick Perkins negated what could have been another game-tying shot in OT. The offensive foul did not matter. Finley's contestedheave hit the back rimanyway.More minutes cannot assuage the pain of the Celticsrecentslippage in both the standings and every offensive and defensive category that counts.Ray Allen finished Friday's game with more fouls than points. Garnett looked Cleveland Browns jersey
ancient at times, and missed eight of 12 attempts.If the 37-year-old guard watched any NBA highlights after his team third straight home defeat, he saw Ginobili thaterupted for 43 points in the Spurs 112-100victory over the Orlando Magic.And probably wondered what he was thinkingfive weeks ago.
storm. He did not want to drown in the inevitable capsizing.The veteran shooter might still pack a clutch punch or two, but he won hurt San Antonio much as a bench cog in the Eastern Conference.The Celtics appear as shipwrecked as any wannabe contender, and Finley cannot repair the rudders or plug the gaping hole in the vessel left side.The Spurs-Celtics Finals a number of analysts predictedlast summer appears less likely than Danny Devito winning a world tallest man competition.Finley value was never going to be realized in the regular season. When it comes to taking a shot with the team down by three or two points with five seconds left, he in a rare class.He nailed eight three-pointers in a series clincher against the Denver Nuggets in the 2007 Playoffs.He sent the Spurs 2008 playoff opener against the Phoenix Suns into overtime with a triple. He knotted the team eventual Southwest Division clincher last spring with another trey. That shot set up a fateful first-round series with the Dallas Mavericks.How he left befits how he arrived. In 2005, Phoenix and Atlanta delivered pitches worthy of an international dignitary. Finley chose the Spurs because he appreciated Popovich low-key, direct approach.Finley surprised many then. He did it again in March when he informed his coach he wanted out.Always the consummate professional, no one can question the sincerity of Finley request. He still wanted to play, and Boston needed a better backup for Ray Allen.That does not lessen the difficulty of this sorrowful goodbye. The San Antonio community adopted him as a native son, forgetting his All-Star years in Dallas. He seemed destined to retire in silver and black at season's end.Instead, Jefferson started to show he could be everything Popovich wanted, and George Hill emerged as an explosive scorer and defender.Ineffective since an ankle sprain sidelined him for more than a month, Finley was not going to play much behind Jefferson, Hill, Ginobili, or Roger Mason Jr.His numbers in February suggested he could not have contributed much. He scored five points over a 28-day period and froze like a statue on the defensive end. He did not move, and the Spurs stayed with him in seventh place.San AntonioChicago Bears jersey
played its best basketball of the season in March, navigating a brutal schedule without All-NBA point guard Tony Parker.Friday night, karma bit Finley in the worst way. No one would argue he deserved it.With the Celtics up two on the crippled Houston Rockets, Finley headed to the line with a chance to ice the game.He made the first freebie but clanged the second. Rockets rookie Jordan Hill fought off two Boston defenders to secure the manliest rebound of the night.Aaron Brooks, then, drained a game-tying three that might have made Jerry West blush. Yes, the Celtics could have fouled, or forced Brooks to drive into the teeth of the defense.Finley and Tony Allen bricked critical foul shots. Doesn that matter more than everything else?As the former All-Star missed the free throw that would have put the game out of reach, he likely remembered a similar night in mid-March last season.Then, as the Manu Ginobili-less Spurs tried to fend off the defending champion Celtics in a slugfest at the ATT Center, Finley and Parker combined to earn three chances in the final minutes to seal a momentous win at the charity stripe.Finley, shooting in the high 80s at the time, missed four in a row. Parker clanged his tries. An emerging Glen Big Baby Davis sank the go-ahead baseline jumper to seal a painful choke job on the part of San Antonio. The Spurs and the C word in the same sentence?Giving Davis a shot from that distance, then, was a stroke of defensive genius. Given the same shots against the L.A. Lakers in an overtime game earlier in the month, he missed four of five badly.Davis began to hit that shot with regularity, and heeventually used the improved stroke to knot a second-round series with the Magic. His game-winner seemed to cement him as an integral piece for Boston.The Spurs' gag job at the foul line in March only made them look older and unequipped to compete for a title.Kevin Garnett played sparingly in the game. Bruce Bowen suffocated Paul Pierce, who finished 3-of-15 from the field.Ginobili wasn available to swipe another inbounds pass to seal the outcome. Roger Mason Jr. could not produce another dramatic clutch triumph.Finley had to know what was coming. The Spurs needed to unearth younger contributors, while returning to the stingy defense of years past.Finley legs had started to buckle, and his zapped athleticism proved a nightly drain on the team defensive harmony.Popovich should have known he was doomed against the Mavericks the moment Finley tried to hang with Josh Howard.Finley soldiered through the summer and training camp, insisting the acquisition of Jefferson excited him. Competing for championships mattered more than individual glory, heCincinnati Bengals jersey
said.In November and December, with Jefferson stuck in the mud, it looked as if Finley would always own at least a tokenrole as a Spur.Then, Hill continued to show he merited more minutes, Ginobili started to look like Ginobili, and Jefferson found a clue. The game changed, and so did Finley.If he compared the Celtics and Spurs in early March, and liked the championship chances for the guys in green better, no one would have declared him insane.This last week full of endgamefutilityshould make him sick.His old team slammed his new one Sunday night at TD Banknorth Garden 94-73. A fledgling but overachieving squad from Oklahoma City stole a 109-104 victory right from Garnett furious, activehands.The Rockets injury list upon arrival at Boston Logan Airport had become longer than Pinocchio nose. Kevin Martin, Shane Battier, David Andersen, and Jared Jefferies were unavailable. Trevor Ariza joined them on the inactive listat the last minute with the flu.Finley had a chance to make Houston gritty effort moot by converting two free throws. Instead, karma reared its ugly head.A moving screen call on Kendrick Perkins negated what could have been another game-tying shot in OT. The offensive foul did not matter. Finley's contestedheave hit the back rimanyway.More minutes cannot assuage the pain of the Celticsrecentslippage in both the standings and every offensive and defensive category that counts.Ray Allen finished Friday's game with more fouls than points. Garnett looked Cleveland Browns jersey
ancient at times, and missed eight of 12 attempts.If the 37-year-old guard watched any NBA highlights after his team third straight home defeat, he saw Ginobili thaterupted for 43 points in the Spurs 112-100victory over the Orlando Magic.And probably wondered what he was thinkingfive weeks ago.
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 Don't Blame Ron Artest If Los Angeles Lakers Lose 2010 NBA Finals
Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesWhen Ron Artest signed on with the Los Angeles Lakers last year, he eagerly stated that if the team didn win the championship this season, fans can point their fingers and throw tomatoes and everything at him. It obvious that the Lakers are not in a better position to win the championship this year. Theyre coming into playoffs with fewer wins57 compared to 65 last year. And there a mediocre attitude surrounding the team, fueled by the doubts from media and fans. A lot of critics are quick to accuse Artest for the Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
Lakers current standings. However, is he really to blame? Artest is a much easier target with his questionable history, including domestic violence, a dud music career, and his less than modest haircuts. For those who like to keep up, he currently sporting bleached blond hair. Im a big fan of the Lakers but I won hesitate to admit that I had major qualms when 23-year-old Trevor Ariza was replaced by 30-year-old Ron Artest. How can I take someone like this seriously? Indeed it much easier to slam Artest and swoon over Ariza. Even Ron, who himself has recently admitted that Ariza is a much better player than he, is not better in terms of skills but in terms of the number of championship rings. However, if youre going to criticize someone sporting ability, the least you can do is be objective about it. I don enjoy sticking up for Artest, but I also don like the fact that people demonize him just because they don like the color of his hair.Without stats to back things up, I can also speculate that Lamar Odom has dropped his game because he married the high-maintenance Khlo Kardashian. The lineup this year is practically the same as last year, with Artest being the exception. Thus, it too easy to anchor this false logic into our heads and think that Artest is the cause of Lakers slump and that Ariza was better. Looking at career stats, Artest is certainly not doing as well this year compared to his 2008-2009 season with the Houston Rockets. He played more games but is scoring significantly less Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
(averaging 11.1 ppg than previous 17.1). Not because he not getting the ball in, but rather he attempting fewer shots. He also averaging fewer rebounds per game (4.3 compared with 5.2). No surprises there as Phil Jackson has continuously expressed his concerns over Artest defense. This doesn mean Artest sucks at it, he just could be better. Ive seen him stop players like Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony, something Ariza wouldve had trouble doing. Comparing Artest current stats to how Ariza did with the Lakers last year, youd soon notice how Artest is performing better overall than Ariza. Ariza averaged the same amount of rebounds compared to Artest, but had fewer assists and steals per game. He also scored less (8.9 ppg) and made fewer three-point shots. Since signing on with the Rockets, he has doubled his attempts in shooting and averaging 14.7 ppg and increased his rebounds and assists per game. It almost seems like being on the Lakers team limits your potential.We have Kobe Bryant who likes to hog the ball, so of course you won be scoring much. Then you have solid players like Pau Gasol, Derek Fisher, Lamar Odom, and Andrew Bynum. To be able to consistently score more than 15 points per game is a big challenge. So if Artest isn the one to blame for the Lakers sliding performance, then who is? Injuries alone have cost the Lakers a few important games. Going into the playoffs, Bynum and Vujacic will probably see more bench action than court. Watching the past few games, there seems to be a lack of intensity in both offense and defense. Players seem to be putting in less of an effort and relying too heavily on Kobe to seal the deal. The team itself is struggling to be optimistic with the snide remarksReebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
being generated by the media and the constant chatters of fans asking, What went wrong? Everyone acting as if the Lakers have lost the championship already. Were only heading into the first round of playoffs, so there no need to speculate what went wrong just yet.As for battering Artest...save your breath for now, as he might just prove his potential worth in the coming weeks ahead.
Lakers current standings. However, is he really to blame? Artest is a much easier target with his questionable history, including domestic violence, a dud music career, and his less than modest haircuts. For those who like to keep up, he currently sporting bleached blond hair. Im a big fan of the Lakers but I won hesitate to admit that I had major qualms when 23-year-old Trevor Ariza was replaced by 30-year-old Ron Artest. How can I take someone like this seriously? Indeed it much easier to slam Artest and swoon over Ariza. Even Ron, who himself has recently admitted that Ariza is a much better player than he, is not better in terms of skills but in terms of the number of championship rings. However, if youre going to criticize someone sporting ability, the least you can do is be objective about it. I don enjoy sticking up for Artest, but I also don like the fact that people demonize him just because they don like the color of his hair.Without stats to back things up, I can also speculate that Lamar Odom has dropped his game because he married the high-maintenance Khlo Kardashian. The lineup this year is practically the same as last year, with Artest being the exception. Thus, it too easy to anchor this false logic into our heads and think that Artest is the cause of Lakers slump and that Ariza was better. Looking at career stats, Artest is certainly not doing as well this year compared to his 2008-2009 season with the Houston Rockets. He played more games but is scoring significantly less Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
(averaging 11.1 ppg than previous 17.1). Not because he not getting the ball in, but rather he attempting fewer shots. He also averaging fewer rebounds per game (4.3 compared with 5.2). No surprises there as Phil Jackson has continuously expressed his concerns over Artest defense. This doesn mean Artest sucks at it, he just could be better. Ive seen him stop players like Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony, something Ariza wouldve had trouble doing. Comparing Artest current stats to how Ariza did with the Lakers last year, youd soon notice how Artest is performing better overall than Ariza. Ariza averaged the same amount of rebounds compared to Artest, but had fewer assists and steals per game. He also scored less (8.9 ppg) and made fewer three-point shots. Since signing on with the Rockets, he has doubled his attempts in shooting and averaging 14.7 ppg and increased his rebounds and assists per game. It almost seems like being on the Lakers team limits your potential.We have Kobe Bryant who likes to hog the ball, so of course you won be scoring much. Then you have solid players like Pau Gasol, Derek Fisher, Lamar Odom, and Andrew Bynum. To be able to consistently score more than 15 points per game is a big challenge. So if Artest isn the one to blame for the Lakers sliding performance, then who is? Injuries alone have cost the Lakers a few important games. Going into the playoffs, Bynum and Vujacic will probably see more bench action than court. Watching the past few games, there seems to be a lack of intensity in both offense and defense. Players seem to be putting in less of an effort and relying too heavily on Kobe to seal the deal. The team itself is struggling to be optimistic with the snide remarksReebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
being generated by the media and the constant chatters of fans asking, What went wrong? Everyone acting as if the Lakers have lost the championship already. Were only heading into the first round of playoffs, so there no need to speculate what went wrong just yet.As for battering Artest...save your breath for now, as he might just prove his potential worth in the coming weeks ahead.
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 A Look Back at The 2007 Draft: Who Would Be The Top 10 Now
Dilip Vishwanat/Getty ImagesDrafting young players with limited college experience is always tough, but the teams that do it well tend to be the teams that win. History has shown that most star players are drafted in the top 10 picks.So, looking back how did the teams drafting in the top 10 fare and if the Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
draft were held today, who would be the top 10 picks?First the top 10 picks of 2007 were:1. Greg Oden by the Portland Trail Blazers2. Kevin Durant by the Seattle Supersonics3. Al Horford by the Atlanta Hawks4. Mike Conley by the Memphis Grizzlies5. Jeff Green by the Boston Celtics6. Yi Jianlian by the Milwaukee Bucks7. Corey Brewer by the Minnesota Timberwolves8. Brandan Wright by the Charlotte Bobcats9. Joakim Noah by the Chicago Bulls10. Spencer Hawes by the Sacramento KingsThis draft will be remembered for the debate between Greg Oden and Kevin Durant. That debate appears to have been decided. Kevin Durant led the NBA in scoring and the Thunder to the playoffs while Oden has had major leg injuries in two of his three seasons.There is still hope for Oden as he showed signs of being a quality defensive center when he was healthy, but it appears that his immense physical gifts will probably never be what everyone anticipated when he was a freshman at Ohio State.Al Horford made the all-star team as a center and solved the lack of quality size problem for the Hawks. He has proved that his selection was a good one.Conley has been a disappointment. He has taken longer to develop than hoped and despite having scorers like Zach Randolph, Rudy Gay and OJ Mayo, he only averaged 5.3 assists per game.Jeff Green was immediately traded for Ray Allen and the Celtics won a title. The Celtics are happy. The Thunder are using him at PF and he has become a very nice player for them. Unfortunately, he is probably playing out of position, but the Thunder are probably very happy with his play so far. It is clear that this draft was the major factor in their rise into the playoffs.Yi has been a bust. The Brewers could not wait to trade him. Now with the Nets, his failure to develop into a quality NBA player is a big reason why the Nets nearly set a record for most losses this year.Brewer was overrated because he was on the Florida championship teams. There is always at least one player from a title team who gets overrated as a result. Brewer was that player. He has been serviceable in his third year, but not worthy of a lottery pick.Brandan Wright is another bust. He was a skinny low post player without an outside shot in college who used his quickness to score. He is still skinny and did not even play this year due to injuries.Joakim Noah was underrated coming out of college. He is a poor shooter and has no low post game, but he is a fantastic Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
defensive center who blocks shots and rebounds. He gets a ton of points off of put backs and passes off of double teams. The vast majority of teams would love to have him on their roster right now. Plus, he is still getting better.Spencer Hawes has been a disappointment. He was supposed to bring high percentage low post scoring to the Kings. He has been a bench player at best who now prefers to shoot jump shots instead of doing to hard work down low. He was a wasted pick.So, looking back, how should the draft gone? Here is one person opinion:1. Kevin Durant by the Portland Trail Blazers is a no brainer. Durant is a year or two away from competing for the MVP of the NBA. Every team would now choose him first.2. Al Horford by the Seattle Supersonics would be next. The Thunder are still looking for a tough interior presence. With Oden injuries, Horford rise to all-star status, he makes the most sense as the secondpick.3. Greg Oden by the Atlanta Hawks would be next. Despite Oden injuries, he has shown real talent. He should eventually be healthy enough to play a significant role for a team.4. Rodney Stuckey by the Memphis Grizzlies should be next. Stuckey has been a strong player for the Pistons. While he is still learning how to be a point, he has shown that he can play defense and score.5. Jeff Green by the Boston Celtics would not be changed. He would be an even better fit for the Thunder at small forward and he has done nothing to disappoint.6. Wilson Chandler by the Milwaukee Bucks should have been the next pick. With Andrew Bogut in place at center, Noah is not necessary. Chandler has been one of the best picks of this draft at 23. He is a quality two way player who can play small forward or shooting guard. Put him on the Bucks instead of Delfino and the Bucks beat the Hawks in the playoffs this year.7. Joakim Noah by the Minnesota Timberwolves would have been a great fit. Al Jefferson would have been able to play his more natural PF spot and Noah defense would have balanced Jefferson.8. Thaddeus Young by the Charlotte Bobcats would have been a much better fit for the Warriors. Young is a good scorer who would have thrived in Don Nelson offense.9. Marc Gasol by the Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
Chicago Bulls would fit their squad nicely. Gasol is a classic back to the basket center that scores in the low post. Any center, who can play decent defense and provide 14.6 points, 9.3 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game is a keeper.10. Aaron Brooks by the Sacramento Kings should have been the final top 10 pick of this draft. Brooks dropped to 26 because of his size, but he has shown that he is a quality point guard. At the time, the Kings did not have a good point and he would have filled that spot nicely.So with 20/20 hindsight, this is how the 2007 draft should have gone.
draft were held today, who would be the top 10 picks?First the top 10 picks of 2007 were:1. Greg Oden by the Portland Trail Blazers2. Kevin Durant by the Seattle Supersonics3. Al Horford by the Atlanta Hawks4. Mike Conley by the Memphis Grizzlies5. Jeff Green by the Boston Celtics6. Yi Jianlian by the Milwaukee Bucks7. Corey Brewer by the Minnesota Timberwolves8. Brandan Wright by the Charlotte Bobcats9. Joakim Noah by the Chicago Bulls10. Spencer Hawes by the Sacramento KingsThis draft will be remembered for the debate between Greg Oden and Kevin Durant. That debate appears to have been decided. Kevin Durant led the NBA in scoring and the Thunder to the playoffs while Oden has had major leg injuries in two of his three seasons.There is still hope for Oden as he showed signs of being a quality defensive center when he was healthy, but it appears that his immense physical gifts will probably never be what everyone anticipated when he was a freshman at Ohio State.Al Horford made the all-star team as a center and solved the lack of quality size problem for the Hawks. He has proved that his selection was a good one.Conley has been a disappointment. He has taken longer to develop than hoped and despite having scorers like Zach Randolph, Rudy Gay and OJ Mayo, he only averaged 5.3 assists per game.Jeff Green was immediately traded for Ray Allen and the Celtics won a title. The Celtics are happy. The Thunder are using him at PF and he has become a very nice player for them. Unfortunately, he is probably playing out of position, but the Thunder are probably very happy with his play so far. It is clear that this draft was the major factor in their rise into the playoffs.Yi has been a bust. The Brewers could not wait to trade him. Now with the Nets, his failure to develop into a quality NBA player is a big reason why the Nets nearly set a record for most losses this year.Brewer was overrated because he was on the Florida championship teams. There is always at least one player from a title team who gets overrated as a result. Brewer was that player. He has been serviceable in his third year, but not worthy of a lottery pick.Brandan Wright is another bust. He was a skinny low post player without an outside shot in college who used his quickness to score. He is still skinny and did not even play this year due to injuries.Joakim Noah was underrated coming out of college. He is a poor shooter and has no low post game, but he is a fantastic Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
defensive center who blocks shots and rebounds. He gets a ton of points off of put backs and passes off of double teams. The vast majority of teams would love to have him on their roster right now. Plus, he is still getting better.Spencer Hawes has been a disappointment. He was supposed to bring high percentage low post scoring to the Kings. He has been a bench player at best who now prefers to shoot jump shots instead of doing to hard work down low. He was a wasted pick.So, looking back, how should the draft gone? Here is one person opinion:1. Kevin Durant by the Portland Trail Blazers is a no brainer. Durant is a year or two away from competing for the MVP of the NBA. Every team would now choose him first.2. Al Horford by the Seattle Supersonics would be next. The Thunder are still looking for a tough interior presence. With Oden injuries, Horford rise to all-star status, he makes the most sense as the secondpick.3. Greg Oden by the Atlanta Hawks would be next. Despite Oden injuries, he has shown real talent. He should eventually be healthy enough to play a significant role for a team.4. Rodney Stuckey by the Memphis Grizzlies should be next. Stuckey has been a strong player for the Pistons. While he is still learning how to be a point, he has shown that he can play defense and score.5. Jeff Green by the Boston Celtics would not be changed. He would be an even better fit for the Thunder at small forward and he has done nothing to disappoint.6. Wilson Chandler by the Milwaukee Bucks should have been the next pick. With Andrew Bogut in place at center, Noah is not necessary. Chandler has been one of the best picks of this draft at 23. He is a quality two way player who can play small forward or shooting guard. Put him on the Bucks instead of Delfino and the Bucks beat the Hawks in the playoffs this year.7. Joakim Noah by the Minnesota Timberwolves would have been a great fit. Al Jefferson would have been able to play his more natural PF spot and Noah defense would have balanced Jefferson.8. Thaddeus Young by the Charlotte Bobcats would have been a much better fit for the Warriors. Young is a good scorer who would have thrived in Don Nelson offense.9. Marc Gasol by the Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
Chicago Bulls would fit their squad nicely. Gasol is a classic back to the basket center that scores in the low post. Any center, who can play decent defense and provide 14.6 points, 9.3 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game is a keeper.10. Aaron Brooks by the Sacramento Kings should have been the final top 10 pick of this draft. Brooks dropped to 26 because of his size, but he has shown that he is a quality point guard. At the time, the Kings did not have a good point and he would have filled that spot nicely.So with 20/20 hindsight, this is how the 2007 draft should have gone.
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 Kobe Bryant's Response To the Phoenix Suns' Idle Chatter? He'd Rather Pass
Harry How/Getty ImagesPhoenix Suns' forward Jared Dudley said he would view the video from the Suns' Game One loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, and see if Lamar Odom and Ron Artest could repeat their performances.Amare Stoudemire said Odom's Game One performance was "lucky," and went aSan Diego Chargers jersey
step further to say Pau Gasol was someone he dominated until Gasol was traded to Los Angeles, and teamed with Andrew Bynum.I'm sure Kobe Bryant was aware of each comment made by the Suns, including Steve Nash's "best coach" comment regarding Lakers' coach Phil Jackson, and his performance has been a testament to his evolution as a player.Instead of taking the Suns' slights personally, Bryant decided to lay the onus onto the backs of his assaulted teammates, and he made sure each player was left in the position to succeed.Bryant handed out a playoffcareer high 13 assists in the Lakers' 124-112 romp over the Suns, and one by one, each member of the Lakers' roster who was shown any disrespect by the Suns contributed to their demise.There was Odom scoring 17 points and pulling down 11 rebounds. He didn't match his Game One performance, but he was "lucky" enough to record a double-double regardless.Stoudemire's boy-toy, Pau Gasol, was once again the best big man on the court, and his 29 points decimated the Phoenix Suns' defense, and he did it from each angle of the post.Artest scored 18 points and made the Suns pay on the perimeter each time they decided to leave him open, while attempting to double team another player.Orchestrating the whole symphony was Bryant, who recognized this moment was not for him, but was instead reserved for his teammates who had something to say.Bryant recognizes the value of the players who surround him, and if there were people who doubted Bryant's trust in his team, Game Two should delete any such thoughts from your mind.The chemistry was apparent between Bryant and Odom, and Gasol, and Artest, and it was evident the emphasis on this night was silencing the San Francisco 49ers jersey
insolent chatter of the Suns.Why else would Bryant feed Artest with one second left in the first quarterquarter, a situation that usually dictates a Bryant shot just based on general principles?Why would Bryant disdain his fourth quarter thievery and trust Odom and Gasol to seal the victory with their dominance in the post?Maybe it's because Bryant finally trusts his teammates, and on this night the Lakers were able to meet Bryant's trust with results, and that is the making of a championship team.This series is far from over, and the Suns will certainly draw inspiration from their home crowd, but tossing insults towards the Lakers may not be the best recipe for success.Maybe Stoudemire learned his lessons, because when pressed to expound on his theory of "luck" for Odom after Game Two, he chose to say his team would give a much better showing at home in Game Three.Phoenix did everything a little better in Game Two; they shot the ball better from three, the pick and roll was working, and they got better production from their bench.But despite the advances made in the Suns' efforts to draw closer to the Lakers, Los Angeles still managed to pull away, and they nearly duplicated their 58 percent shooting performance form the field in Monday's Game One.It appears Phoenix will not be able to trust their defense to slow the Lakers down, and even though the Suns are a superior offensive team, Los Angeles is better in this category also.Especially when the Suns decide to let their words take precedent Seattle Seahawks jersey
over their performance on the court. If this series were to be decided by quotes then Phoenix would have won already.But the fate of the series will be decided on the hardwood, and the Lakers have not only dominated, but they are now only two games away from their goal of returning to the NBA Finals.
step further to say Pau Gasol was someone he dominated until Gasol was traded to Los Angeles, and teamed with Andrew Bynum.I'm sure Kobe Bryant was aware of each comment made by the Suns, including Steve Nash's "best coach" comment regarding Lakers' coach Phil Jackson, and his performance has been a testament to his evolution as a player.Instead of taking the Suns' slights personally, Bryant decided to lay the onus onto the backs of his assaulted teammates, and he made sure each player was left in the position to succeed.Bryant handed out a playoffcareer high 13 assists in the Lakers' 124-112 romp over the Suns, and one by one, each member of the Lakers' roster who was shown any disrespect by the Suns contributed to their demise.There was Odom scoring 17 points and pulling down 11 rebounds. He didn't match his Game One performance, but he was "lucky" enough to record a double-double regardless.Stoudemire's boy-toy, Pau Gasol, was once again the best big man on the court, and his 29 points decimated the Phoenix Suns' defense, and he did it from each angle of the post.Artest scored 18 points and made the Suns pay on the perimeter each time they decided to leave him open, while attempting to double team another player.Orchestrating the whole symphony was Bryant, who recognized this moment was not for him, but was instead reserved for his teammates who had something to say.Bryant recognizes the value of the players who surround him, and if there were people who doubted Bryant's trust in his team, Game Two should delete any such thoughts from your mind.The chemistry was apparent between Bryant and Odom, and Gasol, and Artest, and it was evident the emphasis on this night was silencing the San Francisco 49ers jersey
insolent chatter of the Suns.Why else would Bryant feed Artest with one second left in the first quarterquarter, a situation that usually dictates a Bryant shot just based on general principles?Why would Bryant disdain his fourth quarter thievery and trust Odom and Gasol to seal the victory with their dominance in the post?Maybe it's because Bryant finally trusts his teammates, and on this night the Lakers were able to meet Bryant's trust with results, and that is the making of a championship team.This series is far from over, and the Suns will certainly draw inspiration from their home crowd, but tossing insults towards the Lakers may not be the best recipe for success.Maybe Stoudemire learned his lessons, because when pressed to expound on his theory of "luck" for Odom after Game Two, he chose to say his team would give a much better showing at home in Game Three.Phoenix did everything a little better in Game Two; they shot the ball better from three, the pick and roll was working, and they got better production from their bench.But despite the advances made in the Suns' efforts to draw closer to the Lakers, Los Angeles still managed to pull away, and they nearly duplicated their 58 percent shooting performance form the field in Monday's Game One.It appears Phoenix will not be able to trust their defense to slow the Lakers down, and even though the Suns are a superior offensive team, Los Angeles is better in this category also.Especially when the Suns decide to let their words take precedent Seattle Seahawks jersey
over their performance on the court. If this series were to be decided by quotes then Phoenix would have won already.But the fate of the series will be decided on the hardwood, and the Lakers have not only dominated, but they are now only two games away from their goal of returning to the NBA Finals.
2010年12月26日星期日
26 Dec 10 In Celtic Green, Nate Robinson leaps into the NBA Finals
Jim Rogash/Getty Images It was last year Dunk contest that Nate Robison wore a green New York Knicks uniform and used Dwight Howard as a prop to beat Howard in the All Star Dunk contest. In a single bound, he leaped over Superman to win a second Dunk title. Friday night, Robinson once again used Green Bay Packers jersey
Howard as prop along with the entire Orlando Magic team; however, Nate Robison donned a more familiar Boston Celtic green uniform to leap over Dwight Howard right into the NBA Finals.Robison was great off the bench, and he truly was the X factor that the Magic did not anticipate. Robinson exploded for 13 points in the first half that kept the Magic under the gun. Along with Robinson play and the reemergence of the Celtics great defense, the Magic played like the team that lost three consecutive games, instead of the team that gave their fans hope with two back to back victories.Paul Pierce was not going to be a part of the team that lost a playoff series after leading 3-0 and his 31 points and 13 rebounds ensured that becoming the Boston Bruins of the NBA was avoided. Ray Houston Texans jersey
Allen found his shot in Game 6 and he torched the Magic for 20 points. The final score was 96-84.Nate Robison may forever be characterized as little man that can dunk, but he can score when he is on the court. Nate can get to the rim and is good enough from behind the arc. Orlando if they did not know, they know now he is more than a dunker. He was the X factor that leaped over the Magic and into the NBA finals.
Howard as prop along with the entire Orlando Magic team; however, Nate Robison donned a more familiar Boston Celtic green uniform to leap over Dwight Howard right into the NBA Finals.Robison was great off the bench, and he truly was the X factor that the Magic did not anticipate. Robinson exploded for 13 points in the first half that kept the Magic under the gun. Along with Robinson play and the reemergence of the Celtics great defense, the Magic played like the team that lost three consecutive games, instead of the team that gave their fans hope with two back to back victories.Paul Pierce was not going to be a part of the team that lost a playoff series after leading 3-0 and his 31 points and 13 rebounds ensured that becoming the Boston Bruins of the NBA was avoided. Ray Houston Texans jersey
Allen found his shot in Game 6 and he torched the Magic for 20 points. The final score was 96-84.Nate Robison may forever be characterized as little man that can dunk, but he can score when he is on the court. Nate can get to the rim and is good enough from behind the arc. Orlando if they did not know, they know now he is more than a dunker. He was the X factor that leaped over the Magic and into the NBA finals.
2010年12月25日星期六
25 Dec 10 Kim Kardashian: Latest News on Kris Humphries and Her WAG Return
Kim Kardashian is one of the more famous WAGs in recent memory with her big-time relationship with Reggie Bush.Even her sister, Khloe, is dating Lamar Odom of the Los Angeles Lakers, and the two and the Kardashian family are a huge fixture at the Laker games. You'd think that Kim would end up with one of Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
the Lakers, but somehow, some way, she's dating a member of the New Jersey Nets.I will now allow you to compose yourself after that shock. How she met Kris Humphries, I have no idea, but the two are dating after Kim went through yet another boyfriend in the seemingly endless parade of men, and I'm here to give you all of the news that you need to know about this.As always, there's no need to refresh, as the updates will come straight to you, and if you have any thoughts or comments, make sure to leave them below. 11:33 AM ETKim Kardashian: How Much Did She Make This Past Year?Kim Kardashian, despite her lack of a real reason for her fame and no real talent, has managed to turn herself into a cash cow.Kardashian topped the list of high-earning reality TV shows after making what Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
was estimated to be $6 million this past y...Read more 11:11 AM ETKim Kardashian: What Does She See in Kris Humphries?Kim Kardashian is now dating New Jersey Nets player Kris Humphries, and you might be wondering, since you've probably never even heard of him before he was linked to Kardashian, what's so Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
appealing about him?"Kim likes him much more than Gabriel [...Read more 11:01 AM ETKim Kardashian: Why Did She Split With Her Boyfriend?Kim Kardashian, prior to dating Kris Humphries, was dating Gabriel Aubry, which lasted all of five minutes it would seem.It didn't last long, and according to a source who explained the split to the media."Kim feels like Gabriel was just using her...Read more
the Lakers, but somehow, some way, she's dating a member of the New Jersey Nets.I will now allow you to compose yourself after that shock. How she met Kris Humphries, I have no idea, but the two are dating after Kim went through yet another boyfriend in the seemingly endless parade of men, and I'm here to give you all of the news that you need to know about this.As always, there's no need to refresh, as the updates will come straight to you, and if you have any thoughts or comments, make sure to leave them below. 11:33 AM ETKim Kardashian: How Much Did She Make This Past Year?Kim Kardashian, despite her lack of a real reason for her fame and no real talent, has managed to turn herself into a cash cow.Kardashian topped the list of high-earning reality TV shows after making what Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
was estimated to be $6 million this past y...Read more 11:11 AM ETKim Kardashian: What Does She See in Kris Humphries?Kim Kardashian is now dating New Jersey Nets player Kris Humphries, and you might be wondering, since you've probably never even heard of him before he was linked to Kardashian, what's so Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
appealing about him?"Kim likes him much more than Gabriel [...Read more 11:01 AM ETKim Kardashian: Why Did She Split With Her Boyfriend?Kim Kardashian, prior to dating Kris Humphries, was dating Gabriel Aubry, which lasted all of five minutes it would seem.It didn't last long, and according to a source who explained the split to the media."Kim feels like Gabriel was just using her...Read more
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 David "Too" Stern Correctly Cracks Down on Complaining in NBA
Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesThis off-season, David Stern passed down a new conduct rule which included tweaking technical fouls and increasing the fines associated with them.As little as five years ago “Too” Stern created the dress code, which requires players to dress “ Carolina Panthers jersey
professionally” when going to work at NBA arenas. Done were the days of chains, sweats and other “hood” clothing as Stern realized his league filled with young and wealthy black athletes is being sold to middle-aged white men. The perception of NBA player (certainly every Denver “Thugget”) being a “thug” was persisting in the post “Malice-in-the-Palace” incident (in which Ron Artest rushed the crowd and beat on a fan).And while this new ruling doesn’t carry with it the harsh and evident complexities of race dynamics, (as the dress code did) players are just as upset with the new crack down on complaining.“Punching the air” and other gestures like laughing off a perceived bad call will no longer be tolerated by the NBA officials or the little man who sits atop the NBA empire with his crown glistening.Fines have doubled, at $2,000 (first five), $3,000 (6-10) and $4,000 (techs 11-15). At technical foul number 16 on the season the player is suspended one game for each additional two technicals ($5,000 a piece). The new framework for suspending players that receive too many technical fouls was put into action by “Too” Stern in the 2006-07 season and paved the way for this current rule change.And under the new rules, which give refs free rain to call technicals on most anything, Kevin Garnett was thrown out of a preseason game in the first quarter for laughing at his first technical in the game and Grant Hill of Chicago Bears jersey
all people was ejected for exchanging butt pats with Reggie Evans after Hill tripped in the game.Emotions run wild in the NBA, as they should—take away emotion and there would be no game we love to watch.It’s a positive for a player to possess a competitive fire in sports—we love watching athletes who give it their all no matter what the cost. Conversely, we chastise those that seem disinterested in winning—for an athlete to hope for a clean, fun game is not enough in America.Simply put, emotions drive competitive play.Why then would Stern ask players to “Curb your Enthusiasm?”Denver Nuggets veteran point guard Chauncey Billups weighed in on the issue saying, “It’s (emotion) impossible to keep in check. It’s an emotional game and it’s impossible not to show emotion playing basketball.”Current Nuggets superstar Carmelo Anthony agreed, “You’re going to have guys get emotional during the game, clap their hands, yell and scream. As long as they do that in a professional way I don’t think it should be a tech, but we can’t do that anymore. From what we’ve seen, we can’t have that much emotion.”It seems as if “Too” Stern’s ruling is being misconstrued and misunderstood by players though.The problem in the NBA is not too much emotion; the problem Stern is trying to solve is the constant complaining that is running rampant in today’s NBA.This current culture of complaining began in the 90s with Michael Jordan and has grown into the absolute nuisance it is today.Basically every time down an NBA hardwood a player whines to refs about either a missed or Cincinnati Bengals jersey
perceived bad call.Nowadays, no NBA player thinks they ever commit a foul, and they’ll be damned if the referees don’t see it that way.It started with MJ chirping to refs and getting their ear (of course others complained before but none were given the benefit of calls like Jordan was) and it was as if the referees were not only in awe with MJ’s play, but they also became inclined to call the game in his favor.The relaxation of the traveling call can be without a doubt contributed to Jordan’s smooth and quick dribbling—the refs knew he was bending the rules and they bent further to allow it.Did MJ ask for privileged treatment?Or, could it have been Stern’s decision to let the star shine brighter with help of the refs?Jim Rogash/Getty ImagesIt’s no surprise that Stern has built his NBA on the shoulders of stars, so is it really that much a stretch to believe he ordered refs to tilt the court in Jordan’s favor?Jordan transformed the game, not only from an on-court perspective, but off the court as well—his Jordan brand shoes, television commercials and international fame worked in the NBA’s favor as he sold the NBA as a brand to audiences across the globe.Kobe Bryant may or may not be the heir-apparent to Jordan’s throne, the debate is out there, but he definitely took over where Jordan left off in the evolution of star-referee relations.Once Bryant was established as a rising star, likely the centerpiece of the Association for years to come back in the mid-90s, Kobe was given preferential treatment as well.No sane person can argue that Kobe doesn’t get more calls that nearly every other player in today’s game and he gets them through complaining, yelling Cleveland Browns jersey
and pouting to the officials. The ref-player dynamic has gotten so intrusive that Bryant can regularly be seen with his hand around a referee, pleading his case (it’s supposed to be against the rules to come into contact with a ref). And more often than not, what follows after a Kobe-referee pow wow is a whistle in Bryant’s or the Lakers’ favor.But pleading your case to a ref doesn’t always work, even if you’re a supposed “star.”Marc Piscotty/Getty ImagesJust ask Carmelo Anthony, who as recent as 2008 was not receiving nearly as much ref love as Kobe or fellow ’03 draftee LeBron James.Better yet, ask Rasheed Wallace about what happened when he complained to refs—he was T’d up more than any other player in the history of the NBA.But the complaining epidemic doesn’t end with stars, it only begins there, as in recent years bench warmers and the like (see JR Smith) have began to complain non-stop.In an interesting take from ESPN’s Around the Horn yesterday, every one of the four journalists believed their team (Den, SA/Dal, LA, Bos) whines the most, showing how horrendous it has become.Simply, Stern should have come out and said, “Shut up, quit bitching and play ball."Why?Because complaining is bad for basketball and the reasons are multifaceted.Firstly, complaining slows down the game and detracts from the on-court product. Instead of getting back on defense, some players stop to beseech the refs to see it their way.Next, whining to refs sets a poor example by showing terrible sportsmanship. Players need to allow referees to do their job, and players should focus on theirs.In the MLB, players are thrown out of games all the time, mostly for arguing balls and strikes, and no one argues it is bad for the game.Baseball players (along with the NFL and NHL) are not put on a pedestal like NBA player are by referees, the officials in the other major American sports do not change calls due to player complaints, they merely ignore or penalize those who whine.But the biggest reason complaining needs to be curbed is because it gives some an unfair advantage over others.Don’t think so?Take a quick look at Kobe’s (7.6), LeBron’s (10.2) or any other top-five scorer’s free throw attempts, they easily overshadow others.Free shots lead to free points and more wins for teams lucky enough to Dallas Cowboys jersey
have the “chosen ones."Stern was smart in setting up the future of the league to be centered around stars, but his plan of catering to their every whim has backfired.The conspiracy theorists will scream that Kobe and Bron Bron get more calls because Stern and the NBA wants to give them a better chance to play for championships, and at this point, who can blame them?Preferential treatment by NBA refs is observable fact and is an unfair advantage for some over others.Kobe screams at NBA ref Ken Mauer.Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty ImagesReferees must realize they are in charge of protecting the sanctity and legitimacy of the game—giving one assistance taints not only the image of the Association but the product on the court as well.It’s also no secret there are a certain handful of teams that stars want to play for (LA, NY, CHI) and they are the ones that win titles. In fact, only eight teams have won an NBA title (26.7 percent), with the Celtics (17) and Lakers (16) owning a lion’s share of championships, another line of reasoning the conspiracy theorists point to when they argue that the NBA is rigged.Personally, I am not one to believe in a sham league, one in which Stern hand picks the champion before play even begins (nor do I think it would be possible even if every referee was on the take). But, the league and its officials feed fuel onto the fire when certain players, coaches (see Phil Jackson) and teams are continuously competing for championships, seemingly always receiving “star treatment” from refs.Think for a second about it; what other league receives so much negative attention around officiating?Certainly not the NHL or NFL (where one-two glaring miscalls happen per year). Not even in the MLB, where a bad call cost a pitcher a perfect game this year and where numerous questionable calls were made in ‘09’s playoffs, are the officials scrutinized as much as in the NBA.Why?The reason is due to superstar treatment—the giving of calls, free throws and games to stars—as NBA refs call the game inconsistently, drawing more attention to themselves and away from the contest at hand.Plainly put, the officiating in the NBA is unjust and Stern knows it.Relentless bickering by stars to refs has not only swayed how the game is called, it has created borderline collusion, and Stern knows it. (And the accusations from ex-referee Tim Donaghy would give evidence of Denver Broncos jersey
collusion if they turned out to be true.)Call the new NBA the "No Bitching Association," a fun nickname fans can play with.It may not be the solution, but the commissioner believes if he is more Stern on players, they will have to fall in line or miss game after game.If referees are consistent under the new rules, this could be a great change for the league, evening up how fouls are called for anyone that steps onto the court.It will not only shut up players, but shut down the conspiracy theorists and it may even create better competition in the end.So for now, even though players hate it, Stern was correct in cracking down on complaining players.Rich Kurtzman is a Colorado State Alumnus and a freelance journalist. Along with being the CSU Rams and Fort Collins Beer Bars Examiner, Kurtzman is a Denver Broncos and Denver Nuggets Featured Columnist for bleacherreport.com and the Colorado/Utah Regional Correspondent for stadiumjourney.com.Follow Rich on twitter and/or facebook for updates/articles.
professionally” when going to work at NBA arenas. Done were the days of chains, sweats and other “hood” clothing as Stern realized his league filled with young and wealthy black athletes is being sold to middle-aged white men. The perception of NBA player (certainly every Denver “Thugget”) being a “thug” was persisting in the post “Malice-in-the-Palace” incident (in which Ron Artest rushed the crowd and beat on a fan).And while this new ruling doesn’t carry with it the harsh and evident complexities of race dynamics, (as the dress code did) players are just as upset with the new crack down on complaining.“Punching the air” and other gestures like laughing off a perceived bad call will no longer be tolerated by the NBA officials or the little man who sits atop the NBA empire with his crown glistening.Fines have doubled, at $2,000 (first five), $3,000 (6-10) and $4,000 (techs 11-15). At technical foul number 16 on the season the player is suspended one game for each additional two technicals ($5,000 a piece). The new framework for suspending players that receive too many technical fouls was put into action by “Too” Stern in the 2006-07 season and paved the way for this current rule change.And under the new rules, which give refs free rain to call technicals on most anything, Kevin Garnett was thrown out of a preseason game in the first quarter for laughing at his first technical in the game and Grant Hill of Chicago Bears jersey
all people was ejected for exchanging butt pats with Reggie Evans after Hill tripped in the game.Emotions run wild in the NBA, as they should—take away emotion and there would be no game we love to watch.It’s a positive for a player to possess a competitive fire in sports—we love watching athletes who give it their all no matter what the cost. Conversely, we chastise those that seem disinterested in winning—for an athlete to hope for a clean, fun game is not enough in America.Simply put, emotions drive competitive play.Why then would Stern ask players to “Curb your Enthusiasm?”Denver Nuggets veteran point guard Chauncey Billups weighed in on the issue saying, “It’s (emotion) impossible to keep in check. It’s an emotional game and it’s impossible not to show emotion playing basketball.”Current Nuggets superstar Carmelo Anthony agreed, “You’re going to have guys get emotional during the game, clap their hands, yell and scream. As long as they do that in a professional way I don’t think it should be a tech, but we can’t do that anymore. From what we’ve seen, we can’t have that much emotion.”It seems as if “Too” Stern’s ruling is being misconstrued and misunderstood by players though.The problem in the NBA is not too much emotion; the problem Stern is trying to solve is the constant complaining that is running rampant in today’s NBA.This current culture of complaining began in the 90s with Michael Jordan and has grown into the absolute nuisance it is today.Basically every time down an NBA hardwood a player whines to refs about either a missed or Cincinnati Bengals jersey
perceived bad call.Nowadays, no NBA player thinks they ever commit a foul, and they’ll be damned if the referees don’t see it that way.It started with MJ chirping to refs and getting their ear (of course others complained before but none were given the benefit of calls like Jordan was) and it was as if the referees were not only in awe with MJ’s play, but they also became inclined to call the game in his favor.The relaxation of the traveling call can be without a doubt contributed to Jordan’s smooth and quick dribbling—the refs knew he was bending the rules and they bent further to allow it.Did MJ ask for privileged treatment?Or, could it have been Stern’s decision to let the star shine brighter with help of the refs?Jim Rogash/Getty ImagesIt’s no surprise that Stern has built his NBA on the shoulders of stars, so is it really that much a stretch to believe he ordered refs to tilt the court in Jordan’s favor?Jordan transformed the game, not only from an on-court perspective, but off the court as well—his Jordan brand shoes, television commercials and international fame worked in the NBA’s favor as he sold the NBA as a brand to audiences across the globe.Kobe Bryant may or may not be the heir-apparent to Jordan’s throne, the debate is out there, but he definitely took over where Jordan left off in the evolution of star-referee relations.Once Bryant was established as a rising star, likely the centerpiece of the Association for years to come back in the mid-90s, Kobe was given preferential treatment as well.No sane person can argue that Kobe doesn’t get more calls that nearly every other player in today’s game and he gets them through complaining, yelling Cleveland Browns jersey
and pouting to the officials. The ref-player dynamic has gotten so intrusive that Bryant can regularly be seen with his hand around a referee, pleading his case (it’s supposed to be against the rules to come into contact with a ref). And more often than not, what follows after a Kobe-referee pow wow is a whistle in Bryant’s or the Lakers’ favor.But pleading your case to a ref doesn’t always work, even if you’re a supposed “star.”Marc Piscotty/Getty ImagesJust ask Carmelo Anthony, who as recent as 2008 was not receiving nearly as much ref love as Kobe or fellow ’03 draftee LeBron James.Better yet, ask Rasheed Wallace about what happened when he complained to refs—he was T’d up more than any other player in the history of the NBA.But the complaining epidemic doesn’t end with stars, it only begins there, as in recent years bench warmers and the like (see JR Smith) have began to complain non-stop.In an interesting take from ESPN’s Around the Horn yesterday, every one of the four journalists believed their team (Den, SA/Dal, LA, Bos) whines the most, showing how horrendous it has become.Simply, Stern should have come out and said, “Shut up, quit bitching and play ball."Why?Because complaining is bad for basketball and the reasons are multifaceted.Firstly, complaining slows down the game and detracts from the on-court product. Instead of getting back on defense, some players stop to beseech the refs to see it their way.Next, whining to refs sets a poor example by showing terrible sportsmanship. Players need to allow referees to do their job, and players should focus on theirs.In the MLB, players are thrown out of games all the time, mostly for arguing balls and strikes, and no one argues it is bad for the game.Baseball players (along with the NFL and NHL) are not put on a pedestal like NBA player are by referees, the officials in the other major American sports do not change calls due to player complaints, they merely ignore or penalize those who whine.But the biggest reason complaining needs to be curbed is because it gives some an unfair advantage over others.Don’t think so?Take a quick look at Kobe’s (7.6), LeBron’s (10.2) or any other top-five scorer’s free throw attempts, they easily overshadow others.Free shots lead to free points and more wins for teams lucky enough to Dallas Cowboys jersey
have the “chosen ones."Stern was smart in setting up the future of the league to be centered around stars, but his plan of catering to their every whim has backfired.The conspiracy theorists will scream that Kobe and Bron Bron get more calls because Stern and the NBA wants to give them a better chance to play for championships, and at this point, who can blame them?Preferential treatment by NBA refs is observable fact and is an unfair advantage for some over others.Kobe screams at NBA ref Ken Mauer.Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty ImagesReferees must realize they are in charge of protecting the sanctity and legitimacy of the game—giving one assistance taints not only the image of the Association but the product on the court as well.It’s also no secret there are a certain handful of teams that stars want to play for (LA, NY, CHI) and they are the ones that win titles. In fact, only eight teams have won an NBA title (26.7 percent), with the Celtics (17) and Lakers (16) owning a lion’s share of championships, another line of reasoning the conspiracy theorists point to when they argue that the NBA is rigged.Personally, I am not one to believe in a sham league, one in which Stern hand picks the champion before play even begins (nor do I think it would be possible even if every referee was on the take). But, the league and its officials feed fuel onto the fire when certain players, coaches (see Phil Jackson) and teams are continuously competing for championships, seemingly always receiving “star treatment” from refs.Think for a second about it; what other league receives so much negative attention around officiating?Certainly not the NHL or NFL (where one-two glaring miscalls happen per year). Not even in the MLB, where a bad call cost a pitcher a perfect game this year and where numerous questionable calls were made in ‘09’s playoffs, are the officials scrutinized as much as in the NBA.Why?The reason is due to superstar treatment—the giving of calls, free throws and games to stars—as NBA refs call the game inconsistently, drawing more attention to themselves and away from the contest at hand.Plainly put, the officiating in the NBA is unjust and Stern knows it.Relentless bickering by stars to refs has not only swayed how the game is called, it has created borderline collusion, and Stern knows it. (And the accusations from ex-referee Tim Donaghy would give evidence of Denver Broncos jersey
collusion if they turned out to be true.)Call the new NBA the "No Bitching Association," a fun nickname fans can play with.It may not be the solution, but the commissioner believes if he is more Stern on players, they will have to fall in line or miss game after game.If referees are consistent under the new rules, this could be a great change for the league, evening up how fouls are called for anyone that steps onto the court.It will not only shut up players, but shut down the conspiracy theorists and it may even create better competition in the end.So for now, even though players hate it, Stern was correct in cracking down on complaining players.Rich Kurtzman is a Colorado State Alumnus and a freelance journalist. Along with being the CSU Rams and Fort Collins Beer Bars Examiner, Kurtzman is a Denver Broncos and Denver Nuggets Featured Columnist for bleacherreport.com and the Colorado/Utah Regional Correspondent for stadiumjourney.com.Follow Rich on twitter and/or facebook for updates/articles.
2010年12月23日星期四
23 Dec 10Michael Beasley Should Be a Member of the Toronto Raptors
Marc Serota/Getty ImagesBryan Colangelo and the rest of the Toronto Raptors’ front office must be kicking themselves right now.This past summer, as everyone knows, the Raptors sent Chris Bosh to the Miami Heat for two first round draft picks and a trade exception. However, if Colangelo Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
could get his hands on a time machine there is no doubt he’d make a different decision.Toronto, as it is currently constructed, could use the talents of former 2nd overall draft pick Michael Beasley.Beasley is currently leading the Minnesota Timberwolves in scoring with over 22 points per game.Over his first two seasons Beasley did not impress anyone with his play, but it can be argued that his time in Miami was plagued from the beginning.Pat Riley never wanted to draft Beasley. He wanted Derrick Rose. When Miami failed to win the draft lottery in the 2008, Riley did everything he could to move the pick.At the end of the day, Riley failed to receive any trade offers he was interested in and decided to select Michael Beasley.Beasley played two seasons and then Riley gave him up for a 2nd round draft pick. The move can only be described as a salary-dump. However, from Miami’s perspective it was worthwhile.Do you think Bryan Colangelo made a mistake?Do you think Bryan Colangelo made a mistake?Yes, I want Beasley69.8%No, he will get a quality player with the trade exception19.0%Maybe11.1%Total votes: 315If the team didn’t move Beasley they never would have had enough cap space to sign LeBron James. And I don’t think there is a single General Manager in the NBA who would take Beasley over James.What makes things so terrible for Raptors’ fans is Toronto could have easily acquired Michael Beasley.Pat Riley would have sent a package of Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
Beasley, two first round picks and a $10 million trade exception (instead of $14.5 million) to the Raptors in exchange for Bosh.But Colangelo didn’t want Michael Beasley.Now, in his defence there weren’t too many teams interested in acquiring him. There were questions about his work ethic and his commitment to basketball.Beasley had several marijuana related problems, including a stint in rehab in the summer of 2009. His off court issues, combined with his less then stellar play on-the-court, meant there wasn’t much demand around the league for his services.The one General Manager that was willing to take a chance on Beasley was David Kahn of the Minnesota Timberwolves.This didn’t surprise anyone, as Kahn has had a number of critics since taking over basketball operations in Minnesota.Doug Benc/Getty ImagesHis first basketball related decision as General Manager was drafting Ricky Rubio, Johnny Flynn and Ty Lawson in the first round of the 2009 draft.Kahn also traded away Minnesota’s best player, Al Jefferson, then gave Darko Milicic and Nikola Pekovic a combined $33 million.Nothing he did made sense, so why not take a chance on Beasley. Well for anyone keeping score, David Kahn finally got one right.Michael Beasley and Kevin Love are one of the league’s best young forward tandems. Beasley is finally living up to his draft status.With a 4-9 record and no idea what type of assets Toronto can acquire with the trade Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
exception, I think most fans would love to have Beasley in a Raptors’ uniform.He is a combo-forward, which is Toronto’s biggest area of weakness. The Raptors could also use his point production, as Andrea Bargnani is the only player averaging over 15 points per game (20.8 ppg).They say hindsight is 20/20, but in this case Bryan Colangelo failed to capitalize on a golden opportunity
could get his hands on a time machine there is no doubt he’d make a different decision.Toronto, as it is currently constructed, could use the talents of former 2nd overall draft pick Michael Beasley.Beasley is currently leading the Minnesota Timberwolves in scoring with over 22 points per game.Over his first two seasons Beasley did not impress anyone with his play, but it can be argued that his time in Miami was plagued from the beginning.Pat Riley never wanted to draft Beasley. He wanted Derrick Rose. When Miami failed to win the draft lottery in the 2008, Riley did everything he could to move the pick.At the end of the day, Riley failed to receive any trade offers he was interested in and decided to select Michael Beasley.Beasley played two seasons and then Riley gave him up for a 2nd round draft pick. The move can only be described as a salary-dump. However, from Miami’s perspective it was worthwhile.Do you think Bryan Colangelo made a mistake?Do you think Bryan Colangelo made a mistake?Yes, I want Beasley69.8%No, he will get a quality player with the trade exception19.0%Maybe11.1%Total votes: 315If the team didn’t move Beasley they never would have had enough cap space to sign LeBron James. And I don’t think there is a single General Manager in the NBA who would take Beasley over James.What makes things so terrible for Raptors’ fans is Toronto could have easily acquired Michael Beasley.Pat Riley would have sent a package of Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
Beasley, two first round picks and a $10 million trade exception (instead of $14.5 million) to the Raptors in exchange for Bosh.But Colangelo didn’t want Michael Beasley.Now, in his defence there weren’t too many teams interested in acquiring him. There were questions about his work ethic and his commitment to basketball.Beasley had several marijuana related problems, including a stint in rehab in the summer of 2009. His off court issues, combined with his less then stellar play on-the-court, meant there wasn’t much demand around the league for his services.The one General Manager that was willing to take a chance on Beasley was David Kahn of the Minnesota Timberwolves.This didn’t surprise anyone, as Kahn has had a number of critics since taking over basketball operations in Minnesota.Doug Benc/Getty ImagesHis first basketball related decision as General Manager was drafting Ricky Rubio, Johnny Flynn and Ty Lawson in the first round of the 2009 draft.Kahn also traded away Minnesota’s best player, Al Jefferson, then gave Darko Milicic and Nikola Pekovic a combined $33 million.Nothing he did made sense, so why not take a chance on Beasley. Well for anyone keeping score, David Kahn finally got one right.Michael Beasley and Kevin Love are one of the league’s best young forward tandems. Beasley is finally living up to his draft status.With a 4-9 record and no idea what type of assets Toronto can acquire with the trade Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
exception, I think most fans would love to have Beasley in a Raptors’ uniform.He is a combo-forward, which is Toronto’s biggest area of weakness. The Raptors could also use his point production, as Andrea Bargnani is the only player averaging over 15 points per game (20.8 ppg).They say hindsight is 20/20, but in this case Bryan Colangelo failed to capitalize on a golden opportunity
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