Now that all the major free agents have signed, it has reached the point in free agency when teams are filling the last couple of spots on their rosters. Even though most of the high profile players are off the board, there are still plenty of free agents worth signing, as well as some that are going to have a tough time finding a way to continue their NBA careers.
Here are my Top 10 Remaining Free Agents
1. Eric Bledsoe-As a restricted free agent, the Suns can match any offer given to him, which is a large possibility why he is still available. Latest rumors are that he wants more money than the Phoenix Suns are offering him. It is inevitable that he remains in Phoenix next year though.
2. Greg Monroe-Another restricted free agent, Monroe is a young and talented big man. It is unclear why no team has given him an offer, but it could be related to the Detroit Pistons trying to trade Josh Smith. The Pistons might try to trade Smith before bringing Monroe back to the team.
3. Evan Turner-People seem to already forget that he had a really great first half of the season last year. He was one of the few bright spots for the 76ers before he was traded to the Pacers before the deadline. He was a major disappointment for Indiana both on and off of the court, but he is still a big talent.
4. Shawn Marion-A long time veteran, Marion is reaching the end of his career, but is still capable of playing some good defense and make clutch plays. The Mavericks found a younger replacement, but some team that is looking for a veteran to help them go over the top should sign Marion soon.
5. Ray Allen-He has apparently been pondering retirement most of the summer. However, rumors are that he is being recruited to play in Cleveland with some of his former Miami Heat teammates. It looks like he will either head to Cleveland to join Lebron or retire.
6. Mo Williams-He was basically the only good player on the Trail Blazers bench last year and if he can stay healthy, he can be a big contributor off the bench for a contending team.
7. Jameer Nelson-He spent a long time in Orlando and it was sad to see him get cut. However, he is still capable of being help as a veteran off the bench.
8. Ramon Sessions-He has been on more teams than almost anyone else the last few years. He is still pretty young and a great passer which should lead him to getting a job somewhere.
9. Jordan Crawford-He went from being a bust to underrated to a bust again. He has not been consistent, but has a major upside. Played well for Boston before being traded to the Warriors.
10. Andray Blatche-He is a big man who has shown spots of greatness. Some team will bring him in to be the main big man on the bench who is capable of putting up a great game once in a while.
While those are my top ten remaining free agents, there is a group of others worth signing. These players could probably be signed for minimal amounts and end up having great years... (former team)
Emeka Okafor (Suns), Elton Brand (Hawks), Chris Douglas-Roberts (Hornets), Al-Farouq Aminu (Pelicans), Ekpe Udoh (Bucks), Michael Beasley (Heat), Al Harrington (Wizards). T'oure Murray (Knicks).
This is a list of other remaining free agents, who should probably retire with some dignity especially since they do not have great chances of making opening day rosters.... (former team)
Earl Watson (Trail Blazers), Nazr Mohammed (Bulls), Jason Collins (Nets), Chauncey Billups (Pistons), Jermaine O'neal (Warriors), Hedo Turkoglu (Clippers), Greg Oden (Heat), Kenyon Martin (Knicks).
Here is a list of remaining free agents who still might have time left in their careers, but will have a tough chance of getting signed before the season starts....
Adonis Thomas, Damion James, Jared Cunningham, Gustavo Ayon, Tyshawn Taylor, D.J. White, Rasual Butler, Marshon Brooks, Toney Douglas, Othyus Jeffers, James Southerland.
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Which Dodger Outfielder is the Weakest Link?
Since spring training began this year one of the biggest questions surrounding the Dodgers has been who is going to be the odd outfielder out. The Dodgers have three established veterans as well as a young potential superstar in Yasiel Puig, yet only three of them are able to start each game. The Dodgers likely attempted to trade at least one of their three established veterans during the offseason, but were not able to pull off a deal that was good enough for them. They decided that they would take a wait and see approach to see how it would work and who would do well enough to either prove they deserved a starting spot, or were good enough to put into a reasonable trade package.
After a tough couple of weeks to start the season, Puig has been on fire and one of the best players in the league. He has proven he has a long and bright future so there is no way the Dodgers will part with him anytime soon. Andre Ethier and Carl Crawford also got off to poor offensive starts to the season, but have been slowly building up their batting averages ever since. Ethier has proven to be a good defensive center fielder as well, which makes the argument for keeping Matt Kemp tougher. Other than a couple of good games this season, Kemp has been terrible at the plate. His fielding was also bad enough that he had to be moved to left field. Crawford ended up getting hurt a few weeks ago, but I believe as soon as he gets off of the disabled list the Dodgers should do what they can to try and trade Matt Kemp.
Kemp has proven himself to be the fourth best outfielder of the four of them, and has displayed anger at being perceived as so. Kemp hasn't really been the Dodger's fourth best outfielder this year though anyways. That title should go to Scott Van Slyke. Van Slyke doesn't have a monster average, but has shown he has a lot of power and has had some clutch hits already this season. Plus he has been playing some center field lately taking part in a platoon with Andre Ethier. Van Slyke's emergence only makes the argument to trade Matt Kemp even stronger.
Now Kemp is having a terrible season and is making about 21 million dollars this season, so it is not going to be easy to trade him away. We can't forget that he has five more years and 107 million dollars left on his contract either. No team would be willing to pay that much money for him after seeing how much he has struggled lately. The Dodgers would obviously have to include some money with any trade they make. They also should not expect a top prospect from a team with a good farm system either. The Dodgers main goal in this trade cannot be to help bolster their farm system, it has to be to save some money and restore some order to the Dodgers outfield. The Dodgers would likely have to include at least 20 million dollars of his salary, but that is not much for this ownership, especially when they originally expected to pay him over 100 million dollars more.
With Kemp gone that would leave a clear starting outfield of Puig, Ethier, and Crawford. It also would let Van Slyke become the fourth outfielder, a role I believe he would thrive in. Down the line it will also make it easier to decide what the team does with one of their top prospects Joc Pederson, who is also of course an outfielder.
There are 29 teams that the Dodgers can trade Kemp to and I am sure at least one will take a chance with him, as long as the Dodger do not ask for too much in return. As soon as Crawford returns from the disabled list the Dodgers will be back in the same pickle, so they need to do what is best for the team, their outfielders, and of course Matt Kemp too. Kemp has been a Dodger from day one, but unfortunately he needs to play the second half of his career somewhere else. This could very well all happen in a deadline deal. I guess we will wait over this next month's period and see what happens and if Matt Kemp is still wearing a Dodger's uniform on August 1.
After a tough couple of weeks to start the season, Puig has been on fire and one of the best players in the league. He has proven he has a long and bright future so there is no way the Dodgers will part with him anytime soon. Andre Ethier and Carl Crawford also got off to poor offensive starts to the season, but have been slowly building up their batting averages ever since. Ethier has proven to be a good defensive center fielder as well, which makes the argument for keeping Matt Kemp tougher. Other than a couple of good games this season, Kemp has been terrible at the plate. His fielding was also bad enough that he had to be moved to left field. Crawford ended up getting hurt a few weeks ago, but I believe as soon as he gets off of the disabled list the Dodgers should do what they can to try and trade Matt Kemp.
Kemp has proven himself to be the fourth best outfielder of the four of them, and has displayed anger at being perceived as so. Kemp hasn't really been the Dodger's fourth best outfielder this year though anyways. That title should go to Scott Van Slyke. Van Slyke doesn't have a monster average, but has shown he has a lot of power and has had some clutch hits already this season. Plus he has been playing some center field lately taking part in a platoon with Andre Ethier. Van Slyke's emergence only makes the argument to trade Matt Kemp even stronger.
Now Kemp is having a terrible season and is making about 21 million dollars this season, so it is not going to be easy to trade him away. We can't forget that he has five more years and 107 million dollars left on his contract either. No team would be willing to pay that much money for him after seeing how much he has struggled lately. The Dodgers would obviously have to include some money with any trade they make. They also should not expect a top prospect from a team with a good farm system either. The Dodgers main goal in this trade cannot be to help bolster their farm system, it has to be to save some money and restore some order to the Dodgers outfield. The Dodgers would likely have to include at least 20 million dollars of his salary, but that is not much for this ownership, especially when they originally expected to pay him over 100 million dollars more.
With Kemp gone that would leave a clear starting outfield of Puig, Ethier, and Crawford. It also would let Van Slyke become the fourth outfielder, a role I believe he would thrive in. Down the line it will also make it easier to decide what the team does with one of their top prospects Joc Pederson, who is also of course an outfielder.
There are 29 teams that the Dodgers can trade Kemp to and I am sure at least one will take a chance with him, as long as the Dodger do not ask for too much in return. As soon as Crawford returns from the disabled list the Dodgers will be back in the same pickle, so they need to do what is best for the team, their outfielders, and of course Matt Kemp too. Kemp has been a Dodger from day one, but unfortunately he needs to play the second half of his career somewhere else. This could very well all happen in a deadline deal. I guess we will wait over this next month's period and see what happens and if Matt Kemp is still wearing a Dodger's uniform on August 1.
Friday, May 2, 2014
Clippers Update per Player
The Clippers lost a very tough and close game tonight. They played terribly for most of the game and if the Warriors were able to make more shots this game would have been a blowout. The Clippers turned it over too many times, allowed too many offensive rebounds and had a mostly stagnant offense. Each Clipper that played more than a couple minutes tonight had some problems with his game, which is reflective of what they have done throughout the entire series.
Chris Paul: He had one of his worst games tonight. He did not shoot well, did not run the offense well, and did not lead the Clippers down the stretch like a true superstar is supposed to. He missed a layup during crunch time that could have significantly altered the outcome. The Clippers needed him to have more assists tonight because their offense looked lost. Paul might be hurt, but in game 7 he needs to play like he wants to win a championship, if the Clippers want any to chance to compete for one.
Blake Griffin- Two of the three games the Clippers have lost this series have been really close and it is not likely a coincidence that Blake Griffin has been in foul trouble in both of them. Griffin has consistently been in foul trouble in this series and that has hurt the Clippers a lot. Griffin had a bad shooting night, but in the fourth quarter found his rhythm. If Blake can stay out of foul trouble then the Clippers will have a superstar they can rely on at the end of games.
Deandre Jordan-Jordan started off very aggressively on defense picking up a few blocks in the first quarter. After that he looked to be getting lazy. The Warriors kept driving to the basket and if Jordan would go to try to block it they would find the teammate that was driving to the basket for an easy layup. Jordan kept falling for the same trap and did not get any help from his teammates. Most importantly, he needs to start making his free throws. Jordan was just 3-9 from the free throw line and missed some important free throws. If the Clippers want to win it all, Jordan has to make some free throws especially at the end of games.
Jamal Crawford-He made a few amazing shots, some purely out of luck. His defense is improved as well, but he takes a lot of tough shots when there is no reason to. Crawford takes a lot of long distance shots when he has no teammate to get a rebound even if there is time left on the shot clock. What I do not like more than anything is when Crawford or anyone else has the ball at the end of a quarter. Almost every time they just continue dribbling the ball until there is barely any time left. Crawford keeps the ball close to midcourt and doesnt begin a drive until there is only 3 or 4 seconds left. That is too late to pass the ball, fake any shot, or get anywhere close to the basket before time runs out. Yes he still makes an outside shot once in a while at the buzzer, but if he began his drive with 8 or 9 seconds left he would more likely have an easier shot, be able to pass the ball to an open teammate, or even give his team a chance for an offensive rebound and quick put back.
JJ Redick- Redick was in foul trouble this game and eventually fouled out towards the end. He did not shoot well and despite making a couple tough shots did not do enough offensively to help the Clippers win. Redick makes some nice plays on offense, but so many times he and other wing players just sit around the three point line for entire 24 second possessions without even moving. If the Clippers keep moving they will get more open shots and have an easier time scoring the basketball.
Glen Davis-He is very slow and has not proved to anyone they he can play good defense or get rebounds. When he was in the Warriors were getting offensive rebounds at ease and his biggest contribution to helping the Clippers in this game was probably bumping into Jermaine O'neal, likely knocking him out for the rest of the series. Davis has not had many shooting opportunities so he needs to play defense and get the rebounds whenever he is on the court.
Matt Barnes-He played pretty well and made some very tough shots including at the very end of the game. He is playing with a hurt toe so he impressed with his defense. However, he was not good on the switch on defense if he ended up having to guard Stephen curry. Also, like I mentioned with Jj redick, Barnes stands around the 3 point line way too much for entire offensive possessions. there was one play when barnes actually cut to the basket and got a pass from jamal Crawford, which resulted in an easy layup for barnes. when he is aggressive good things happen.
Darren Collison- He played pretty well tonight after a slow start. When he is aggressive he does good things, especially on offense. He can also improve on his ball handling skills and running the offense when he is in charge of the point.
Danny Granger-Has he scored a single point in this series? Granger is proving to be a terrible mid-season pick up by the Clippers. His playing time is getting lower and lower as he is playing worse and worse. He has not shown to play good defense and his offense this entire series has been absent. The Clippers expected him to be a key player off the bench and he has failed miserably. I think it is possible he does not even make an appearance in game 7.
So the Clippers have one chance to prove to themselves and the league that the deserve to make it to the next round. If they do not pull it off, then maybe it is better off that they have everyone become free agents.
Chris Paul: He had one of his worst games tonight. He did not shoot well, did not run the offense well, and did not lead the Clippers down the stretch like a true superstar is supposed to. He missed a layup during crunch time that could have significantly altered the outcome. The Clippers needed him to have more assists tonight because their offense looked lost. Paul might be hurt, but in game 7 he needs to play like he wants to win a championship, if the Clippers want any to chance to compete for one.
Blake Griffin- Two of the three games the Clippers have lost this series have been really close and it is not likely a coincidence that Blake Griffin has been in foul trouble in both of them. Griffin has consistently been in foul trouble in this series and that has hurt the Clippers a lot. Griffin had a bad shooting night, but in the fourth quarter found his rhythm. If Blake can stay out of foul trouble then the Clippers will have a superstar they can rely on at the end of games.
Deandre Jordan-Jordan started off very aggressively on defense picking up a few blocks in the first quarter. After that he looked to be getting lazy. The Warriors kept driving to the basket and if Jordan would go to try to block it they would find the teammate that was driving to the basket for an easy layup. Jordan kept falling for the same trap and did not get any help from his teammates. Most importantly, he needs to start making his free throws. Jordan was just 3-9 from the free throw line and missed some important free throws. If the Clippers want to win it all, Jordan has to make some free throws especially at the end of games.
Jamal Crawford-He made a few amazing shots, some purely out of luck. His defense is improved as well, but he takes a lot of tough shots when there is no reason to. Crawford takes a lot of long distance shots when he has no teammate to get a rebound even if there is time left on the shot clock. What I do not like more than anything is when Crawford or anyone else has the ball at the end of a quarter. Almost every time they just continue dribbling the ball until there is barely any time left. Crawford keeps the ball close to midcourt and doesnt begin a drive until there is only 3 or 4 seconds left. That is too late to pass the ball, fake any shot, or get anywhere close to the basket before time runs out. Yes he still makes an outside shot once in a while at the buzzer, but if he began his drive with 8 or 9 seconds left he would more likely have an easier shot, be able to pass the ball to an open teammate, or even give his team a chance for an offensive rebound and quick put back.
JJ Redick- Redick was in foul trouble this game and eventually fouled out towards the end. He did not shoot well and despite making a couple tough shots did not do enough offensively to help the Clippers win. Redick makes some nice plays on offense, but so many times he and other wing players just sit around the three point line for entire 24 second possessions without even moving. If the Clippers keep moving they will get more open shots and have an easier time scoring the basketball.
Glen Davis-He is very slow and has not proved to anyone they he can play good defense or get rebounds. When he was in the Warriors were getting offensive rebounds at ease and his biggest contribution to helping the Clippers in this game was probably bumping into Jermaine O'neal, likely knocking him out for the rest of the series. Davis has not had many shooting opportunities so he needs to play defense and get the rebounds whenever he is on the court.
Matt Barnes-He played pretty well and made some very tough shots including at the very end of the game. He is playing with a hurt toe so he impressed with his defense. However, he was not good on the switch on defense if he ended up having to guard Stephen curry. Also, like I mentioned with Jj redick, Barnes stands around the 3 point line way too much for entire offensive possessions. there was one play when barnes actually cut to the basket and got a pass from jamal Crawford, which resulted in an easy layup for barnes. when he is aggressive good things happen.
Darren Collison- He played pretty well tonight after a slow start. When he is aggressive he does good things, especially on offense. He can also improve on his ball handling skills and running the offense when he is in charge of the point.
Danny Granger-Has he scored a single point in this series? Granger is proving to be a terrible mid-season pick up by the Clippers. His playing time is getting lower and lower as he is playing worse and worse. He has not shown to play good defense and his offense this entire series has been absent. The Clippers expected him to be a key player off the bench and he has failed miserably. I think it is possible he does not even make an appearance in game 7.
So the Clippers have one chance to prove to themselves and the league that the deserve to make it to the next round. If they do not pull it off, then maybe it is better off that they have everyone become free agents.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
NBA Playoff Preview and Season Recap
The 2013-2014 NBA regular season has finally ended. In what seems to have been a long year, the important part has yet to begin. While 16 of the 30 teams are still in contention, the other 14 will focus this summer on how to rebuild. Three of those teams are the Lakers, Celtics and Knicks who all missed the playoffs this year making it the first time all three teams have missed the playoffs. The Bucks and 76ers meanwhile, had historically bad seasons and the Phoenix Suns missed the playoffs despite having the 11th best record in the league. The Cavaliers and Pistons missed the playoffs in the weak eastern conference despite the high hopes for both teams prior to the season. The Nuggets and Hornets experienced many injuries and were not able to overcome them in the strong western conference. The Jazz, Kings and Magic are all in full rebuilding mode and missed the playoffs this year too. For the Timberwolves another year of injuries and shortcomings blocked them from the playoffs and they continue to have the longest streak in the league of not making the playoffs.
Now that the playoff match-ups are set, I will give my predictions on who will win.
IN THE EASTERN CONFERENCE.....
1. Indiana Pacers vs. 8. Atlanta Hawks - The Hawks are pretty fortunate to be in the playoffs. They have a losing record and have been terrible the last few months. The Pacers, despite struggling over the last couple of months were still able to hold off the Heat for the top spot in the east. The Pacers should have no problem winning this series in four or five games and if it takes more than that the Pacers should not expect to go too deep in the playoffs.
2. Miami Heat vs. 7. Charlotte Bobcats - The Bobcats have bounced back this year after two miserable seasons in large thanks to a new head coach Steve Clifford and bringing in center Al Jefferson. They will have their work cut out for them though having to face the two time defending champions. The Heat are hoping to start their playoff run by beating the Bobcats. The Heat have struggled lately, but should be able to find themselves as the playoffs start. The Bobcats could present a challenge though so I would not be surprised if the Bobcats take the Heat to 6 or 7 games.
3. Toronto Raptors vs. 6. Brooklyn Nets - The Raptors won their division and were very impressive throughout the season. Both Kyle Lowry and Demar Derozan showed great improvement to lead them to the third seed. Meanwhile, the Nets overcame a terrible start to the season and had one of the league's best records over the last few months. This will be the closest series in the east in my opinion, but I believe the Raptors will come out on top.
4. Chicago Bulls vs. 5. Washington Wizards - The Washington Wizards were another team in the east that went from lottery to playoffs this season. The improvement of John Wall and solid play by Bradley Beal, Trevor Ariza, Marcin Gortat and others helped them finish as the 5th seed. The Bulls overcame another season ending injury to Derrick Rose and traded away their longest tenured player in Luol Deng and yet somehow continously got better over the season. Joakim Noah anchored the team's amazing defense and the overall chemistry led this team. While the Wizards have proven to be a good team I think the Bulls will still win this series. Their play as a team is something to think about.
IN THE WESTERN CONFERENCE....
1. San Antonio Spurs vs. 8. Dallas Mavericks - The Spurs are once again the best in the west. With the best coach in the league and a roster full of hardworking and talented players they rose to the top of the standings including a 19 game winning streak. The Mavericks had an up and down season and ended up falling to the 8th seed the last day of the season. The Mavericks are riding Dirk Nowitzki once again and fought their way to clinch a playoff spot. As good as the Mavericks have been, the Spurs will likely win this series easily. The Mavericks could push the series deep if they play at the top of their game, but this series will likely be over quickly seeing as the Mavericks did not beat the Spurs all season.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder vs. 7. Memphis Grizzlies - The Thunder had another great season even while missing Russell Westbrook for about half of the season. Kevin Durant will likely win his first MVP award and deserves it after leading the Thunder all season long. The Grizzlies meanwhile were not in the playoff picture the first half of the season much of which Marc Gasol missed due to injury. Once he returned they played great basketball and ended up just grabbing the 7th seed. I believe this will be a close series, but the Thunder will end up winning. This is the kind of series that the team with the best player always wins and the Thunder want revenge after losing to the Grizzlies last year.
3. Los Angeles Clippers vs. 6. Golden State Warriors - The Clippers finished with a franchise record in wins for the second straight year and with a new coach in Doc Rivers and a much improved Blake Griffin seemed destined for greatness in the near future. The Warriors had an up and down season and could be without stating center Andrew Bogut for the series. With the injury to Bogut and the Clippers overall depth will help them defeat the Warriors. I do not expect it to be a seven game series, but doubtfully a sweep as well.
4. Houston Rockets vs. 5. Portland Trail Blazers - The Rockets have lived up to their expectations and have been consistent throughout the season led by James Harden and Dwight Howard. The Trailblazers had one of the best starts of any teams this season and finished hot as well. Their starting five was able to stay healthy most of the season and played great together. I expect the Rockets to win mainly because the Trail Blazers have a very thin bench and any injury to their starters would end the series right away. I do not think this series will go very deep, but I could be wrong.
So I predict no upsets in the first round which does seem cliche', but the teams at the top of both conferences are very strong and look good heading into the playoffs. If my predictions are correct then in the second round it will be Pacers vs. Bulls and Heat vs. Raptors in the eastern conference in the second round and Spurs vs. Rockets and Thunder vs. Clippers in the second round. I will update my predictions after the first round is completed, but until then go CLIPPERS!!
Now that the playoff match-ups are set, I will give my predictions on who will win.
IN THE EASTERN CONFERENCE.....
1. Indiana Pacers vs. 8. Atlanta Hawks - The Hawks are pretty fortunate to be in the playoffs. They have a losing record and have been terrible the last few months. The Pacers, despite struggling over the last couple of months were still able to hold off the Heat for the top spot in the east. The Pacers should have no problem winning this series in four or five games and if it takes more than that the Pacers should not expect to go too deep in the playoffs.
2. Miami Heat vs. 7. Charlotte Bobcats - The Bobcats have bounced back this year after two miserable seasons in large thanks to a new head coach Steve Clifford and bringing in center Al Jefferson. They will have their work cut out for them though having to face the two time defending champions. The Heat are hoping to start their playoff run by beating the Bobcats. The Heat have struggled lately, but should be able to find themselves as the playoffs start. The Bobcats could present a challenge though so I would not be surprised if the Bobcats take the Heat to 6 or 7 games.
3. Toronto Raptors vs. 6. Brooklyn Nets - The Raptors won their division and were very impressive throughout the season. Both Kyle Lowry and Demar Derozan showed great improvement to lead them to the third seed. Meanwhile, the Nets overcame a terrible start to the season and had one of the league's best records over the last few months. This will be the closest series in the east in my opinion, but I believe the Raptors will come out on top.
4. Chicago Bulls vs. 5. Washington Wizards - The Washington Wizards were another team in the east that went from lottery to playoffs this season. The improvement of John Wall and solid play by Bradley Beal, Trevor Ariza, Marcin Gortat and others helped them finish as the 5th seed. The Bulls overcame another season ending injury to Derrick Rose and traded away their longest tenured player in Luol Deng and yet somehow continously got better over the season. Joakim Noah anchored the team's amazing defense and the overall chemistry led this team. While the Wizards have proven to be a good team I think the Bulls will still win this series. Their play as a team is something to think about.
IN THE WESTERN CONFERENCE....
1. San Antonio Spurs vs. 8. Dallas Mavericks - The Spurs are once again the best in the west. With the best coach in the league and a roster full of hardworking and talented players they rose to the top of the standings including a 19 game winning streak. The Mavericks had an up and down season and ended up falling to the 8th seed the last day of the season. The Mavericks are riding Dirk Nowitzki once again and fought their way to clinch a playoff spot. As good as the Mavericks have been, the Spurs will likely win this series easily. The Mavericks could push the series deep if they play at the top of their game, but this series will likely be over quickly seeing as the Mavericks did not beat the Spurs all season.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder vs. 7. Memphis Grizzlies - The Thunder had another great season even while missing Russell Westbrook for about half of the season. Kevin Durant will likely win his first MVP award and deserves it after leading the Thunder all season long. The Grizzlies meanwhile were not in the playoff picture the first half of the season much of which Marc Gasol missed due to injury. Once he returned they played great basketball and ended up just grabbing the 7th seed. I believe this will be a close series, but the Thunder will end up winning. This is the kind of series that the team with the best player always wins and the Thunder want revenge after losing to the Grizzlies last year.
3. Los Angeles Clippers vs. 6. Golden State Warriors - The Clippers finished with a franchise record in wins for the second straight year and with a new coach in Doc Rivers and a much improved Blake Griffin seemed destined for greatness in the near future. The Warriors had an up and down season and could be without stating center Andrew Bogut for the series. With the injury to Bogut and the Clippers overall depth will help them defeat the Warriors. I do not expect it to be a seven game series, but doubtfully a sweep as well.
4. Houston Rockets vs. 5. Portland Trail Blazers - The Rockets have lived up to their expectations and have been consistent throughout the season led by James Harden and Dwight Howard. The Trailblazers had one of the best starts of any teams this season and finished hot as well. Their starting five was able to stay healthy most of the season and played great together. I expect the Rockets to win mainly because the Trail Blazers have a very thin bench and any injury to their starters would end the series right away. I do not think this series will go very deep, but I could be wrong.
So I predict no upsets in the first round which does seem cliche', but the teams at the top of both conferences are very strong and look good heading into the playoffs. If my predictions are correct then in the second round it will be Pacers vs. Bulls and Heat vs. Raptors in the eastern conference in the second round and Spurs vs. Rockets and Thunder vs. Clippers in the second round. I will update my predictions after the first round is completed, but until then go CLIPPERS!!
Thursday, February 20, 2014
NBA Trade Deadline Recap
Earlier today was the trade deadline in the NBA. Every year a bunch of trades take place right before and while there were no 'blockbuster' deals which took place in the last couple of days there were plenty of trades to talk about. The deadline got going yesterday with a couple trades and went all the way to the exact minute of the deadline. Here is my take on each trade.
The first trade took place yesterday between the Sacramento Kings and Brooklyn Nets. The Nets traded big man Reggie Evans and guard Jason Terry and got back young guard Marcus Thornton. It is clear the nets were trying to do two things; get a little younger and see what Thornton has and if he can help them clinch a playoff berth. Terry is not having a great season and is towards the end of his career so the Nets did not see a lot of light at the end of his tunnel. The Kings meanwhile win in the fact that they get a couple possible expiring contracts. Trade Winner-Nets
The other Wednesday trade was between the Lakers and Warriors. The Lakers sent Steve Blake to the Warriors for guards Marshon Brooks and Kent Bazemore. Both new Lakers are young guys who the Lakers will give a chance to prove themselves. The Lakers also will save a few millions dollars due to lesser contracts and luxury tax. Steve Blake gives the Warriors a ball handler to come off the bench behind Stephen Curry. So while the Lakers save a little bit of money, they lose a good teammate and clutch player. Trade Winner-Warriors
The first big trade of today was between the Cavaliers and 76ers. The Cavaliers got big man Spencer Hawes for two second round picks, forward Earl Clark and seldom used center Henry Sims. The Cavs get a good player in Hawes to help their frontcourt as they make a push for the playoffs. The Sixers meanwhile get a couple more draft picks and get rid of Hawes' contract. The Cavs keep acquiring more players, but are not getting any closer to making the playoffs. Trade Winner-76ers
The Bobcats received a couple guards in Gary Neal and Luke Ridnour in return for Ramon Sessions Jeff Adrian. The Bobcats get a couple more shooters to help them secure their playoff spot while the Bucks just get an expiring contract and continue tanking. Trade Winner-Bobcats
There was a three team deal in which the Wizards acquired Andre Miller, who then sent big man Jan Vesely to the Denver Nuggets in return and also sent guard Eric Maynor to the 76ers. The 76ers also received two second round draft picks. The 76ers get a couple more draft picks without giving anything up, the Wizards get an upgrade at the backup point guard position and the Nuggets trade someone who was not even with the team in return for a big man. Trade Winner-76ers
The Nuggets were then a part of another trade when they sent forward Jordan Hamilton to the Houston Rockets in return for point guard Aaron Brooks. Brooks was the third string point guard in Houston and not getting much playing time so he becomes the backup in Denver with an opportunity to play. Meanwhile the Rockets get a young forward with potential in Hamilton. Trade Winner-Nuggets
The Miami Heat sent Roger Mason Jr. and cash considerations to the Sacramento Kings for a protected second round pick. That second round pick is very unlikely to be the Heat's pick in the end so the Kings did not really give up anything. They already have waived Mason so they obviously did not care much for him. The Heat open up a roster spot that they can use to sign someone to help them return to the finals. Trade Winner-Heat
The Clippers sent seldom used forward Antawn Jamison the the Atlanta Hawks in return for the rights to Cenk Akyol a 2005 second round pick who has never come to the NBA. This basically is just a dump for the Clippers to open up another roster spot while the Hawks get a big man who they hope can help with their first two centers already hurt. The Clippers never really gave Jamison a chance who still might have something left. Trade Winner-Hawks
The Clippers also sent big man Byron Mullens to the 76ers in return for a second round pick. The Clippers must be happy to make this trade since Mullens has been a major disappointment this season. He has fallen to the end of the bench and the Clippers needed to move on and find another big man which they now will have the chance to do. Mullens will have an opportunity to play in Philadelphia and prove he can be a NBA player. Trade Winner-Clippers
The biggest trade of the day was one of the last ones. The Indiana Pacers sent Danny Granger to Philadelphia in return for young Evan Turner and forward Lavoy Allen. Turner has not lived up to his potential, but in a role where not much is expected off the bench. Allen is another good guy to have on the bench so the Pacers could be real winners with this trade. Meanwhile, Granger has an expiring contract and could possibly be the 76ers best player now so he will get a chance to play for a contract. Trade Winner-Pacers
One final trade that happened right at the deadline was between the San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors. The Raptors acquired seldom used guard Nando De Colo in return for seldome used forward Austin Daye. Both teams will get a player who was at the end of the bench and see if he can help out their new team in their playoff runs. Trade Winner-whichever got the better player?
There will be no more trades until the offseason now, but will certainly be some buyouts and plenty of more signings as the playoffs get closer and closer.
The first trade took place yesterday between the Sacramento Kings and Brooklyn Nets. The Nets traded big man Reggie Evans and guard Jason Terry and got back young guard Marcus Thornton. It is clear the nets were trying to do two things; get a little younger and see what Thornton has and if he can help them clinch a playoff berth. Terry is not having a great season and is towards the end of his career so the Nets did not see a lot of light at the end of his tunnel. The Kings meanwhile win in the fact that they get a couple possible expiring contracts. Trade Winner-Nets
The other Wednesday trade was between the Lakers and Warriors. The Lakers sent Steve Blake to the Warriors for guards Marshon Brooks and Kent Bazemore. Both new Lakers are young guys who the Lakers will give a chance to prove themselves. The Lakers also will save a few millions dollars due to lesser contracts and luxury tax. Steve Blake gives the Warriors a ball handler to come off the bench behind Stephen Curry. So while the Lakers save a little bit of money, they lose a good teammate and clutch player. Trade Winner-Warriors
The first big trade of today was between the Cavaliers and 76ers. The Cavaliers got big man Spencer Hawes for two second round picks, forward Earl Clark and seldom used center Henry Sims. The Cavs get a good player in Hawes to help their frontcourt as they make a push for the playoffs. The Sixers meanwhile get a couple more draft picks and get rid of Hawes' contract. The Cavs keep acquiring more players, but are not getting any closer to making the playoffs. Trade Winner-76ers
The Bobcats received a couple guards in Gary Neal and Luke Ridnour in return for Ramon Sessions Jeff Adrian. The Bobcats get a couple more shooters to help them secure their playoff spot while the Bucks just get an expiring contract and continue tanking. Trade Winner-Bobcats
There was a three team deal in which the Wizards acquired Andre Miller, who then sent big man Jan Vesely to the Denver Nuggets in return and also sent guard Eric Maynor to the 76ers. The 76ers also received two second round draft picks. The 76ers get a couple more draft picks without giving anything up, the Wizards get an upgrade at the backup point guard position and the Nuggets trade someone who was not even with the team in return for a big man. Trade Winner-76ers
The Nuggets were then a part of another trade when they sent forward Jordan Hamilton to the Houston Rockets in return for point guard Aaron Brooks. Brooks was the third string point guard in Houston and not getting much playing time so he becomes the backup in Denver with an opportunity to play. Meanwhile the Rockets get a young forward with potential in Hamilton. Trade Winner-Nuggets
The Miami Heat sent Roger Mason Jr. and cash considerations to the Sacramento Kings for a protected second round pick. That second round pick is very unlikely to be the Heat's pick in the end so the Kings did not really give up anything. They already have waived Mason so they obviously did not care much for him. The Heat open up a roster spot that they can use to sign someone to help them return to the finals. Trade Winner-Heat
The Clippers sent seldom used forward Antawn Jamison the the Atlanta Hawks in return for the rights to Cenk Akyol a 2005 second round pick who has never come to the NBA. This basically is just a dump for the Clippers to open up another roster spot while the Hawks get a big man who they hope can help with their first two centers already hurt. The Clippers never really gave Jamison a chance who still might have something left. Trade Winner-Hawks
The Clippers also sent big man Byron Mullens to the 76ers in return for a second round pick. The Clippers must be happy to make this trade since Mullens has been a major disappointment this season. He has fallen to the end of the bench and the Clippers needed to move on and find another big man which they now will have the chance to do. Mullens will have an opportunity to play in Philadelphia and prove he can be a NBA player. Trade Winner-Clippers
The biggest trade of the day was one of the last ones. The Indiana Pacers sent Danny Granger to Philadelphia in return for young Evan Turner and forward Lavoy Allen. Turner has not lived up to his potential, but in a role where not much is expected off the bench. Allen is another good guy to have on the bench so the Pacers could be real winners with this trade. Meanwhile, Granger has an expiring contract and could possibly be the 76ers best player now so he will get a chance to play for a contract. Trade Winner-Pacers
One final trade that happened right at the deadline was between the San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors. The Raptors acquired seldom used guard Nando De Colo in return for seldome used forward Austin Daye. Both teams will get a player who was at the end of the bench and see if he can help out their new team in their playoff runs. Trade Winner-whichever got the better player?
There will be no more trades until the offseason now, but will certainly be some buyouts and plenty of more signings as the playoffs get closer and closer.
Monday, February 10, 2014
Why Jason Collins Has Not Gotten an Offer
While I cannot be considered an NBA expert, I would like to make it known that all eight of my reserve picks for the western all-star team were correct. Therefore, I have proof that I do know a few things about the league. And while I do not have any inside connections in the NBA, I do know the reason why Jason Collins has remained a free agent since he announced he was gay last summer.
What is keeping Collins out of the NBA actually comes down to two different reasons. The first reason, as the new commissioner recently pointed out, age. After all he is 35 and in only 38 games last season averaged 1.1 points a game. It was not just because of minutes either seeing as he shot just 31 percent from the field. His career averages are 3.6 points and 3.8 rebounds a game are not much to brag about. There are just simply many younger bigs that teams could sign that would most likely help their team out more over the course of the season.
While age and skill are the reasons Collins did not sign and have a roster spot, I think it is clear that his announcement did play in affect to him still being a free agent. While teams only carry 14 or 15 players throughout the season, rosters are never the same from opening night until the playoffs. First of all teams are allowed to have up to 20 players on their roster in training camp up until the final preseason game. With extra players on the roster, why didn't a team give him a chance and see if he was good enough to make their opening night roster? Also, over the last month we have seen players sign 10 day contracts giving them short tenures to prove they deserve a roster spot. Players who have been out of the NBA for multiple years have signed these contracts and gotten chances, but not Collins who has remained a free agent.
Collins might not have gotten either of these opportunities for a chance to earn a roster spot because he declined the opportunity unless a team assured him a spot. However, I have not heard any news saying a team has offered him an opportunity so it is likely another reason. I believe no team has signed Collins because he is gay. Not because they feel he will negatively effect the locker room, not because he will cause a distraction and not because they want to discriminate against anybody. If a team signed Collins during training camp and released him before the start of the season, or if a team signed him to a ten day contract and did not resign him for another contract, that team would face major repercussions. Teams are afraid they will be labeled as prejudiced and haters because they released Collins. NBA teams feel that is not worth giving Collins a chance due to the backlash expected if they release him. I do not know if NBA executives will admit this, but it seems so obvious for why Jason Collins has not yet been signed this season, and will not likely play in another NBA game for the rest of his life.
What is keeping Collins out of the NBA actually comes down to two different reasons. The first reason, as the new commissioner recently pointed out, age. After all he is 35 and in only 38 games last season averaged 1.1 points a game. It was not just because of minutes either seeing as he shot just 31 percent from the field. His career averages are 3.6 points and 3.8 rebounds a game are not much to brag about. There are just simply many younger bigs that teams could sign that would most likely help their team out more over the course of the season.
While age and skill are the reasons Collins did not sign and have a roster spot, I think it is clear that his announcement did play in affect to him still being a free agent. While teams only carry 14 or 15 players throughout the season, rosters are never the same from opening night until the playoffs. First of all teams are allowed to have up to 20 players on their roster in training camp up until the final preseason game. With extra players on the roster, why didn't a team give him a chance and see if he was good enough to make their opening night roster? Also, over the last month we have seen players sign 10 day contracts giving them short tenures to prove they deserve a roster spot. Players who have been out of the NBA for multiple years have signed these contracts and gotten chances, but not Collins who has remained a free agent.
Collins might not have gotten either of these opportunities for a chance to earn a roster spot because he declined the opportunity unless a team assured him a spot. However, I have not heard any news saying a team has offered him an opportunity so it is likely another reason. I believe no team has signed Collins because he is gay. Not because they feel he will negatively effect the locker room, not because he will cause a distraction and not because they want to discriminate against anybody. If a team signed Collins during training camp and released him before the start of the season, or if a team signed him to a ten day contract and did not resign him for another contract, that team would face major repercussions. Teams are afraid they will be labeled as prejudiced and haters because they released Collins. NBA teams feel that is not worth giving Collins a chance due to the backlash expected if they release him. I do not know if NBA executives will admit this, but it seems so obvious for why Jason Collins has not yet been signed this season, and will not likely play in another NBA game for the rest of his life.
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Eastern All Star Reserve Picks
Last week I made my decisions for who deserves to be on the all star team for the western conference and now I will choose my eastern conference reserves a day before they are all announced. The eastern starting lineup consists of young Kyrie Irving, Dwyane Wade, Paul George, Lebron James and Carmelo Anthony. While it will be interesting to see who plays the center position (Lebron?), it will be more interesting to see who the coaches choose to fill out the bench. There are seven available positions on the bench and these are my choices for who should be there....
PF/C Chris Bosh- While Bosh is not having his best year by the numbers, he is playing a large role for the Heat. Since Wade has missed some games, Bosh has stepped into the Lebron's second man position and has helped the Heat stay towards the top of the east.
C Roy Hibbert- The Pacers are the best team in the NBA and Hibbert is a big reason why. His blocking and rebounding give the Pacers a great inside presence and his ability to score as well makes him one of the best big men in the entire league.
PF Paul Millsap- The Hawks have been in the third seed in the east most of the year and the best player on their team has been Millsap. The new Hawk continues to score and rebound at all star levels even without Al Horford on the court. Millsap is no doubt having an all star season.
C Al Jefferson- I know the bench is looking pretty big, but it evens out with the starting lineup. The Bobcats are in the playoff hunt in the east and their best player by far has been Jefferson. He is almost carrying that team on his back especially now that Kemba Walker is injured.
PG Kyle Lowry- He is averaging 16 1/2 points and 7 1/2 assists a night and leading the Raptors to a high playoff seed. He deserves it over his teammate Demar Derozan, but just barely. Lowry is having the best season of his career and it will be interesting to see whether or not the Raptors keep him.
PG John Wall- He is also having the best season of his young career so far leading his team in points and assists. Wall is leading the Wizards to a playoff seed and is showing his dominance as an all star point guard.
C Joakim Noah- I give the final spot to Noah over Aaron Afflalo and Joe Johnson. Noah is the anchor of a great defensive Bulls team that is somehow in the playoff race despite losing Derrick Rose once again for the season.
Well those are my picks for the bench on the eastern conference all star team, tomorrow night we will see how many of my picks actually make it.
PF/C Chris Bosh- While Bosh is not having his best year by the numbers, he is playing a large role for the Heat. Since Wade has missed some games, Bosh has stepped into the Lebron's second man position and has helped the Heat stay towards the top of the east.
C Roy Hibbert- The Pacers are the best team in the NBA and Hibbert is a big reason why. His blocking and rebounding give the Pacers a great inside presence and his ability to score as well makes him one of the best big men in the entire league.
PF Paul Millsap- The Hawks have been in the third seed in the east most of the year and the best player on their team has been Millsap. The new Hawk continues to score and rebound at all star levels even without Al Horford on the court. Millsap is no doubt having an all star season.
C Al Jefferson- I know the bench is looking pretty big, but it evens out with the starting lineup. The Bobcats are in the playoff hunt in the east and their best player by far has been Jefferson. He is almost carrying that team on his back especially now that Kemba Walker is injured.
PG Kyle Lowry- He is averaging 16 1/2 points and 7 1/2 assists a night and leading the Raptors to a high playoff seed. He deserves it over his teammate Demar Derozan, but just barely. Lowry is having the best season of his career and it will be interesting to see whether or not the Raptors keep him.
PG John Wall- He is also having the best season of his young career so far leading his team in points and assists. Wall is leading the Wizards to a playoff seed and is showing his dominance as an all star point guard.
C Joakim Noah- I give the final spot to Noah over Aaron Afflalo and Joe Johnson. Noah is the anchor of a great defensive Bulls team that is somehow in the playoff race despite losing Derrick Rose once again for the season.
Well those are my picks for the bench on the eastern conference all star team, tomorrow night we will see how many of my picks actually make it.
Saturday, January 25, 2014
Who Deserves the Rest of the All-Star Spots
A couple of days ago, the results of fans choices for the NBA all star starters came out. While the fans did not do a great job of picking the starters, I will do my best and try and pick the remainder of the positions left to fill on the teams.
The west starters are Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry, Kevin Love, Blake Griffin and Kevin Durant.
While four of those guys are legitimate starters, Kobe has only played in six games this season and it is saddening to see him being voted in as a starter over a bunch of guys who legitimately deserved it. However, here are my picks to fill out the rest of the west's roster.
G James Harden-Harden is putting up all star numbers again this year and is the go to guy on an impressive Rockets team. There is no doubt he will end up on the all star team.
C Dwight Howard- Another star on the Rockets, Howard is not putting up quite the numbers most people think he is capable of, but no doubt an all star and one of the last true centers in the NBA (Deandre Jordan, Tyson Chandler being a couple others).
F Lamarcus Aldridge- Many people are upset he is not a starter on this team. He is putting up great numbers and is the leader of a Trail Blazers team beating expectations. They already have more wins this year than all of last year and his scoring and rebounding is a key reason.
G Damian Lillard- Another Trail Blazer, Lillard is running the point and helping lead the team. No doubt he will be on the roster after Kobe even have his approval and said Lillard should take his place on the team.
F Dirk Nowitzki- Dallas looks like they are going to make the playoffs this year and as always Dirk is the primary guy on the team. Coaches will vote for him because he is a respected veteran and is having another good season.
G Tony Parker- Parker, along with Tim Duncan and the rest of the gang are continuing their annual surprise. The Spurs are near the top of the conference yet again and Parker is leading them as their main guy.
FC Anthony Davis- The last spot was hard to decide on, but I would give it to Anthony Davis over Demarcus Cousins and Ty Lawson. Davis is averaging 20 and 10 on a Pelicans team that could be in the playoffs if it were not for injury problems. Also the all star game is in New Orleans and there is almost always a hometown player in the game so give it to Davis.
That is all twelve spots, but Kobe Bryant has already stated he will not be playing in the game considering he is still injured. Therefore, the commissioner will get to decide who replaces Bryant in the game. I feel there is only one person who deserves that spot and that is. . .
G Chris Paul- While it may be out of bias, Chris Paul deserves this spot. After all, if it was not for Bryant he would have been voted in as a starter. Also, he is the best player on a great Clippers team and while he has missed the last few weeks due to an injury he still leads the league in assists and is the best point guard in the league. If he is playing again before all star weekend, he deserves to be the final piece of the west all stars.
(For my eastern all star picks, check back soon)
The west starters are Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry, Kevin Love, Blake Griffin and Kevin Durant.
While four of those guys are legitimate starters, Kobe has only played in six games this season and it is saddening to see him being voted in as a starter over a bunch of guys who legitimately deserved it. However, here are my picks to fill out the rest of the west's roster.
G James Harden-Harden is putting up all star numbers again this year and is the go to guy on an impressive Rockets team. There is no doubt he will end up on the all star team.
C Dwight Howard- Another star on the Rockets, Howard is not putting up quite the numbers most people think he is capable of, but no doubt an all star and one of the last true centers in the NBA (Deandre Jordan, Tyson Chandler being a couple others).
F Lamarcus Aldridge- Many people are upset he is not a starter on this team. He is putting up great numbers and is the leader of a Trail Blazers team beating expectations. They already have more wins this year than all of last year and his scoring and rebounding is a key reason.
G Damian Lillard- Another Trail Blazer, Lillard is running the point and helping lead the team. No doubt he will be on the roster after Kobe even have his approval and said Lillard should take his place on the team.
F Dirk Nowitzki- Dallas looks like they are going to make the playoffs this year and as always Dirk is the primary guy on the team. Coaches will vote for him because he is a respected veteran and is having another good season.
G Tony Parker- Parker, along with Tim Duncan and the rest of the gang are continuing their annual surprise. The Spurs are near the top of the conference yet again and Parker is leading them as their main guy.
FC Anthony Davis- The last spot was hard to decide on, but I would give it to Anthony Davis over Demarcus Cousins and Ty Lawson. Davis is averaging 20 and 10 on a Pelicans team that could be in the playoffs if it were not for injury problems. Also the all star game is in New Orleans and there is almost always a hometown player in the game so give it to Davis.
That is all twelve spots, but Kobe Bryant has already stated he will not be playing in the game considering he is still injured. Therefore, the commissioner will get to decide who replaces Bryant in the game. I feel there is only one person who deserves that spot and that is. . .
G Chris Paul- While it may be out of bias, Chris Paul deserves this spot. After all, if it was not for Bryant he would have been voted in as a starter. Also, he is the best player on a great Clippers team and while he has missed the last few weeks due to an injury he still leads the league in assists and is the best point guard in the league. If he is playing again before all star weekend, he deserves to be the final piece of the west all stars.
(For my eastern all star picks, check back soon)
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