Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty ImagesCleveland Cavaliers minority (and former majority) owner Gordon Gund stated recently that he is "very hopeful" that Cavs superstar LeBron James will re-sign with the team during the much-hyped free agent signing period this summer."I'm very hopeful that he will. I think it will be hard for him to find a better situation," Gund said in an interview with basketball Web site NBA FanHouse.Gund's aspirations are shared with firm guard by anyone who has a shred of affection for Cleveland sports. LeBron's influence and Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
importance go above and beyond sports for Clevelanders."King James" means everything to this city.The issue of James' eventual signing with his next NBA squad has been discussed ad nauseam over the course of the past two years or so, matched only by the coverage of Brett Favre's annual retirement charade and ESPN's yearlong love affair with the NFL Draft.Each and every opinion variation has been analyzed, rebuttals have been thrown back and forth, and once the dust settles after each of the many debates, the general consensus seems split: Many think he'll stay, many think he'll go.But despite the many "experts" who hold the utmost confidence in James abandoning the city where sports nightmare created its horrifyingly permanent nest, the King will still hold court in Cleveland next year and beyond.First of all, the Cavs can give James a lot (more than any other NBA team) of what he likes a whole lot: money. The collective bargaining agreement allows Cleveland to offer James a maximum contract this summer. Cavaliers general manager Danny Ferry would have to be a lunatic to do anything but that.The bottom line on the money issue is that the Cavs can give LeBron more money than anybody else.Some will argue that James would cash in on millions more in endorsement deals if he jumped ship to a bigger city and broader spotlight. While this may be true to an extent, can this guy get any bigger than he already is?His face is on billboards in almost every major city in the world, he's featured in annual ad campaigns for multiple international conglomerates, he's one of the most recognizable faces in the world, and he has an entire region (which includes his hometown) groveling at his feet 24/7.This last point brings this article to its next argument: James' close ties to family and friends close to home tip the scales in favor of the Cavs locking him up beyond 2010.Since beginning his career with the Cavaliers, James has continually said how much he enjoys playing near his hometown and how important his family and friends are to him. The tight bonds James developed with his teammates at Akron's St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (which are highlighted in a full-length feature film and a book) give evidence to how connected and rooted he is to northeast Ohio.While LeBron's Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
loyalty to the place in which he grew up certainly won't single-handedly sway him toward re-signing with Cleveland, it certainly doesn't hurt.Seasons past and present give evidence to the claim that the Cavaliers give James his best shot at a championship. From the moment Cleveland drafted James in 2003, the franchise that was then on life support has done everything in its power to give its star everything he needs to win a ring.After a shaky start to this season (a whopping two-game losing streak at the outset), James and his teammates have developed a tangible chemistry that has led them to the Eastern Conference's best record (30-10).Cleveland boasts one of the biggest frontlines, deepest benches, and most talented backcourts in basketball. The offseason additions of Anthony Parker and Jamario Moon, the (finally) consistent play of guard Daniel Gibson, and the continued high productivity of Mo Williams and Delonte West have helped place James and the Cavaliers among the favorites to claim the Larry O'Brien Trophy in June.All this goes without mentioning what the Cavs may do at this season's trade deadline to bolster their roster.While some of Ferry's past moves have been questionable at best (the Larry Hughes experiment), he's also pulled off a few of what should be considered miraculous transactions (essentially swapping Damon Jones for Williams two seasons ago and trading Tony Battie and draft picks to Orlando for Drew Gooden and Anderson Varejao).And although some may argue that newly-acquired center Shaquille O'Neal isn't a good fit in Cleveland, the Cavs gave up next to nothing (Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic) to get the overwhelming frontcourt presence that many said they needed after getting bounced from last year's playoffs by Dwight Howard and the Magic.As long as Ferry holds post as general manager in Cleveland, one can reasonably expect him to continue giving LeBron the pieces he needs to contend for a title.But perhaps the biggest reason for James to remain with the Cavaliers past 2010 has to do with a mission of sorts for the superstar.Since LeBron entered the league, he has developed a Kobe Bryant-esque will to reach victory, no matter what it takes (this is especially evident since the Cavaliers' rise to NBA prominence). All one needs to do is watch a hotly-contested fourth quarter to behold James putting his team on his back and carrying it through whatever the opposition throws at him.It's this kind of commitment against losing that drives the "King's Crusade." If LeBron can bring Clevelanda city that has undergone nonstop sports torture for decadesa championship dynasty over the next several years, it will seat him firmly among history's greatest athletes.No number of potential championships won in a city like New York could match bringing the success-starved Cleveland faithful to the promised landa heroic feat to which LeBron is startlingly dedicated.Dominating the league from his hometown, while fighting to bring it the championship success it has long lacked could Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
end up being the one factor that pushes James to sign on the dotted line with the Cavaliers this summer.Since LeBron's arrival in Cleveland, he has done nothing but plant euphoric dreams within the minds of the downtrodden Midwest town's people.This summer will not only make or break the future of the Cavaliers, but that of the city of Cleveland as well. With the Cavaliers in the Association's elite, King James' subjects should share Gund's faith.Until then, we'll just have to Witness what happens.
2011年1月12日星期三
12 Jan 11 Greg Oden Is the Kind of Guy You Want on Your Team
Greg Oden woke up 5 months ago to an unsettling phone call.Nude pictures had surfaced on the Internet, and the world around him was crashing down upon him... Well, at least that's how the media and fans acted.The story is that two years ago Greg and his girlfriend at the time had been "sexting" Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
and having a good time. Apparently she kept the photos. To get back at him, she sent the photos to a Web site and the rest is history.LZ Granderson of ESPN.com said it best..."Penis.There, I said it. Not "thing" or "junk" or "stuff" or any other ridiculous euphemism we use to describe this particular area of the anatomy, as if it weren't part of the human body.About half the people in the world have one, and that includes Greg Oden.None of this is exactly breaking news, but for some reason, a good chunk of the country has been behaving as if the nude photos of the oft-injured Portland Trail Blazer that surfaced recently are a stop-the-presses issue. It's been on every sports blog the Internet offers up as well as sports talk radio and television shows from coast to coast, including ESPN.The only thing more ridiculous thanOden's apologizingfor taking the pictures are the folks who felt he needed to. As far as I can tell, he has nothing to apologize for -- and no, that isn't a thinly veiled size joke."The national media made this story way bigger than it needed to be. San Diego Chargers jersey
Greg Oden didn't do anything illegal. He didn't get in a fight. He wasn't fooling around with a prostitute or smoking weed out of the back of an Escalade.He had a lapse of judgement.That's it.There were no guns involved. No drugs. No illegal activity took place.We don't need to crucify the guy because he is guilty of being a kid.This leads me to my next point.He is a great guy. What professional athlete in recent memory has actually admitted first hand that they did something wrong?Alex Rodriguez? No.McGwire? No.Tiger Woods? No.Greg Oden handled this like a man. He did the right thing even though he didn't have to.He did the right thing even though the wrong thing was much easier, and I commend him for his maturity following his lapse in judgement. None of this regards his on court play, which in the moments he has been able to display it, he has been spectacular. This summer should be a huge turning point for Greg both mentally and physically.On the physical front there has been some movement. Trainer Jay Jensen said during a radio interview that they believe the reason Greg Oden has been having knee troubles is because his quad muscle is too powerful and is causing an imbalance in his muscle system. When a muscle doesn't have a neutralizing force on the other end, you begin to add extra stress onto San Francisco 49ers jersey
the tendons and other important structures and in this case, that is the knee. But thats beside the point.Greg Oden is the person of quality that every NBA team wants.Past injury issues aside, Greg Oden will be a dominant center.Rip city will have to be patient.But that will be easy since he has the kind heart and loving personality that Portland adores.Get better, Greg.
and having a good time. Apparently she kept the photos. To get back at him, she sent the photos to a Web site and the rest is history.LZ Granderson of ESPN.com said it best..."Penis.There, I said it. Not "thing" or "junk" or "stuff" or any other ridiculous euphemism we use to describe this particular area of the anatomy, as if it weren't part of the human body.About half the people in the world have one, and that includes Greg Oden.None of this is exactly breaking news, but for some reason, a good chunk of the country has been behaving as if the nude photos of the oft-injured Portland Trail Blazer that surfaced recently are a stop-the-presses issue. It's been on every sports blog the Internet offers up as well as sports talk radio and television shows from coast to coast, including ESPN.The only thing more ridiculous thanOden's apologizingfor taking the pictures are the folks who felt he needed to. As far as I can tell, he has nothing to apologize for -- and no, that isn't a thinly veiled size joke."The national media made this story way bigger than it needed to be. San Diego Chargers jersey
Greg Oden didn't do anything illegal. He didn't get in a fight. He wasn't fooling around with a prostitute or smoking weed out of the back of an Escalade.He had a lapse of judgement.That's it.There were no guns involved. No drugs. No illegal activity took place.We don't need to crucify the guy because he is guilty of being a kid.This leads me to my next point.He is a great guy. What professional athlete in recent memory has actually admitted first hand that they did something wrong?Alex Rodriguez? No.McGwire? No.Tiger Woods? No.Greg Oden handled this like a man. He did the right thing even though he didn't have to.He did the right thing even though the wrong thing was much easier, and I commend him for his maturity following his lapse in judgement. None of this regards his on court play, which in the moments he has been able to display it, he has been spectacular. This summer should be a huge turning point for Greg both mentally and physically.On the physical front there has been some movement. Trainer Jay Jensen said during a radio interview that they believe the reason Greg Oden has been having knee troubles is because his quad muscle is too powerful and is causing an imbalance in his muscle system. When a muscle doesn't have a neutralizing force on the other end, you begin to add extra stress onto San Francisco 49ers jersey
the tendons and other important structures and in this case, that is the knee. But thats beside the point.Greg Oden is the person of quality that every NBA team wants.Past injury issues aside, Greg Oden will be a dominant center.Rip city will have to be patient.But that will be easy since he has the kind heart and loving personality that Portland adores.Get better, Greg.
12 Jan 11 West's Legal Situation Is Cause For Concern
Doug Pensinger/Getty ImagesAs of today, the Cavs sit atop the Eastern Conference at 37-11. They are now a full 5.5 games up on the surging Hawks and six games up on the aging Celtics. They own the tie-breaker against the Lakers should they meet in the Finals as a result of their series sweep this year. Additionally, they are currently on a seven-game winning streak, all without D Weezy and Mo-Gotti running the point (and forcing Cavs fans to have to watch Boobie Gibson bring the ball up the court; always an adventure). The media is beginning to hop on the Cleveland Browns jersey
bandwagon as well.Yet I still am not convinced that this team has what it takes to win it all. Maybe it's my inner Cleveland shining through, the pessimism that continually plagues fans of any of the Cleve's professional teams; just waiting to get punched in the gut yet again, the only surprise being how it will come. And yet my uneasiness has nothing to do with JJ Hickson or the four spot, the alleged inability to guard stretch fours, or the offense's tendency to go into full blown Witness mode and watch LeBron try to score one-on-five. My concern lies with Delonte West's legal situation and the effect this will have on the team.This week, and as expected, West's lawyers were able to get a continuance and move his trial date to April. The reality is this case will never see the courtroom as West will plea bargain to a lower charge.In the meantime, both sides will continue to negotiate, a process I fully expect to run until April. Delonte will not receive jail time for the misdemeanors he is charged with, and I fully expect him to receive probation as well as to have to pay some sort of Dallas Cowboys jersey
fine. The real worry is what the Commish decides to do.David Stern is a calculating man, and as evidenced by his actions with the Arenas situation, he will not make a decision until the legal aspect of this case plays out. After it's resolved, Stern will then suspend West. Further, Given the leagues painful insecurity with all things gun and gang related, West could receive a long suspension.One caveat: The Commish came down so hard on Arenas for bringing guns into the "NBA workplace." The hope is because West's transgression took place out on the open road (literally) the suspension won't be as stringent.The timing of this is important because if West is not suspended until April-May, he could miss the start of the playoffs. The Cavs backcourt is thin as is, and West is arguably the second best guard on the team. His defense and intangibles are going to be important come playoff time. Without him, the Cavs will have to rely on Boobie Gibson, a lights out shooter, but really a one trick pony.Ask yourself this: Do you feel comfortable having Daniel Gibson as the top guard off the bench? I didn't think so.Unfortunately, the Cavs front office may have to take West's pending suspension into consideration as they look to improve the team at trade deadline. Do they take a chance and grab a stretch four, hoping West either won't be Denver Broncos jersey
suspended, or will be back in time for the playoffs?Or do they go after some insurance if/when West is suspended? The hope is the Cavs don't risk it and don't stand pat, and get another guard as insurance for West's looming suspension.Either way, Delonte's Mad Max impression back in the summer is looming large over the Cavs title aspirations.
bandwagon as well.Yet I still am not convinced that this team has what it takes to win it all. Maybe it's my inner Cleveland shining through, the pessimism that continually plagues fans of any of the Cleve's professional teams; just waiting to get punched in the gut yet again, the only surprise being how it will come. And yet my uneasiness has nothing to do with JJ Hickson or the four spot, the alleged inability to guard stretch fours, or the offense's tendency to go into full blown Witness mode and watch LeBron try to score one-on-five. My concern lies with Delonte West's legal situation and the effect this will have on the team.This week, and as expected, West's lawyers were able to get a continuance and move his trial date to April. The reality is this case will never see the courtroom as West will plea bargain to a lower charge.In the meantime, both sides will continue to negotiate, a process I fully expect to run until April. Delonte will not receive jail time for the misdemeanors he is charged with, and I fully expect him to receive probation as well as to have to pay some sort of Dallas Cowboys jersey
fine. The real worry is what the Commish decides to do.David Stern is a calculating man, and as evidenced by his actions with the Arenas situation, he will not make a decision until the legal aspect of this case plays out. After it's resolved, Stern will then suspend West. Further, Given the leagues painful insecurity with all things gun and gang related, West could receive a long suspension.One caveat: The Commish came down so hard on Arenas for bringing guns into the "NBA workplace." The hope is because West's transgression took place out on the open road (literally) the suspension won't be as stringent.The timing of this is important because if West is not suspended until April-May, he could miss the start of the playoffs. The Cavs backcourt is thin as is, and West is arguably the second best guard on the team. His defense and intangibles are going to be important come playoff time. Without him, the Cavs will have to rely on Boobie Gibson, a lights out shooter, but really a one trick pony.Ask yourself this: Do you feel comfortable having Daniel Gibson as the top guard off the bench? I didn't think so.Unfortunately, the Cavs front office may have to take West's pending suspension into consideration as they look to improve the team at trade deadline. Do they take a chance and grab a stretch four, hoping West either won't be Denver Broncos jersey
suspended, or will be back in time for the playoffs?Or do they go after some insurance if/when West is suspended? The hope is the Cavs don't risk it and don't stand pat, and get another guard as insurance for West's looming suspension.Either way, Delonte's Mad Max impression back in the summer is looming large over the Cavs title aspirations.
2011年1月10日星期一
10 Jan 11 L.A. Sparks Clearing Cap Space, Making a Play For LeBron (Satire)
Jim McIsaac/Getty ImagesWith the All-Star break having come and gone, it's a good time to reflect on the disaster that is the 2009-10 New Jersey Nets season.Simply put, this is going to be a no-holds-barred grading session. Let's start from the inside out.Brook Lopez: B+Lopez is the only player who deserves a decent grade. He leads the Nets in points. rebounds. and blocks. He is shooting over 50 percent and been New Jersey's most consistent player. While he is probably not a true franchise player, he is absolutely a building block.About Lopez's only Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
fault this year is that he has not player his best when going up against big (as in size) opponents. He does need to do a better job of setting up low in the post so that he does not have to work as hard once he gets the ball in the post.Yi Jianlian: DYi is playing smarter yet worse overall. He still has trouble finishing in the paint. He is blocking more shots, but it is at the cost of playing worse on the ball defense.The improvement in his numbers is almost entirely related to increased playing time. However, he once again has been hurt and is not a reliable player.Basically, he is too robotic and lacks the necessary efficiency in his body movements to excel on the NBA level. The Nets would be wise to cut their losses with Yi and look for a new power forward. Better yet, they should give more time to his backups.Kris Humphries: C+With the Nets, Humphries has shown some ability. In 23 minutes, he is averaging 10.1 points and 7.3 rebounds. By way of comparison, Yi is averaging 12.8 points and 6.9 rebounds in 32 minutes. Humphries is the better player and should be the starter.Humphries is a natural rebounder and much more athletic than any of the other power forwards on the roster. He is willing to do the dirty work and is a much better fit next to Lopez.Josh Boone: C-Boone can rebound OK and sets a good pick. He does not play good defense, though, as he lacks lateral quickness. Also, he can't shoot. In general, he should have become Dale Davis, but he's not even as good as Chris Wilcox. He is another waste of space. However, since not much was expected, it is hard to be too critical.Chris Douglas-Roberts: CHe mostly plays hard but has been a disappointment. His lack of a consistent jump shot has held him back, and he lacks the size and quickness to effectively guard most small forwards.He was expected to be the Net who could create his own shot from the wing. However, that ability has not emerged. He is still young and probably needs more time to develop, but he is best served in his current role as a sixth man. Unfortunately, the Nets lack a true starting-caliber small forward.Terrence Williams: FHe should be the starting small forward, but his poor play has been so poor that he is dangerously near "bust" status. He can't shoot but takes mostly jump shots. He can handle the ball well but forgets to focus on creating for teammates. He is very athletic, but his defense is poor because he is frequently out of position.Jarvis Hayes: CHayes is exactly what he isa replacement-level player. Ideally, he would be the solid veteran off the bench. However, the poor play of CDR and Williams has forced the Nets to put Hayes into the starting lineup. It is a shame that injuries have ruined his athleticism, because he is a very smart player.Trenton Hassell: B-He is a smart, heady player who plays below the rim. He's also a tough and physical defender, but he is a poor shooter, so he hurts the team on offense if he has to shoot beyond 16 feet.Since Hayes has more range, he plays more since Hassell fills a similar role. He could help Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
a contender that already has plenty of scoring. On this team, his skills are wasted. He gets the second-best grade on this team for playing hard every time he gets the chance and always playing within himself.Courtney Lee: DHe was supposed to be the rough perimeter defender who would knock down the open jump shots created by Harris and Lopez. Instead, his defense has been inconsistent and he seems to have forgotten how to shoot. He is shooting 29.6 percent from three-point range, which is horrible for a player who supposedly can shoot.He often makes the wrong reads on defense and leaves his man open on doubles. The biggest reason the Nets are this bad is that they traded Vince Carter for Lee. Carter may be having a poor year, but he is still light years more dangerous a player.Devin Harris: C-Injuries are the biggest reason for his lack of success. He has lacked that explosive quickness that he showed last year. His shooting is down in all respects, and his defense has been spotty.He has started to play better recently, though, and he is still the Nets' second-best player. When he plays well, the Nets have a chance to win. If he plays poorly, the Nets have no chance.Keyon Dooling: CHe has been solid as a backup point guard. He has been decent as a shooter. He has been a decent defender. He has been a decent ball handler. Sadly, on this team, decent qualifies as good by comparison.Bobby Simmons: FWhat happened to the tough defender and solid jump shooter? When he was with the Clippers, he was a true pain to play. He always played hard and he earned everyone's respect. That player never showed up this year. He looks like he is going through the motions. The Nets should just cut him now and let someone who wants to prove he belongs to the team.Chris Quinn: DQuinn shoots the ball well from three-point range. However, he can't create and is a poor ball handler for a point guard. The best part of his game other than his shooting is that he still cares. That is not enough to get a better grade, but he is not a waste of roster space.Rafer Alston and Sean Williams: FBoth are gone, but both deserve some mention.Alston is perhaps as big a reason as to why the Nets started 0-18 and Lawrence Frank got fired. "Skip to My Lou" was expected to provide leadership and heady point guard play, and when Harris got hurt, Alston got major minutes. Instead, he stunk.He shot less than 40 percent, taking mostly stupid jump shots and missing layups. His defense was poor, as he took too many chances trying to go for steals instead of just staying in front of his man. If ever there was a player who deserved to get cut, it was Alston.Williams was a basketball knucklehead when he was drafted and he has remained a knucklehead. He actually tried hard, but he never seemed to understand Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
the offense or proper defensive rotations. He helped win an occasional game with his hustle and rebounding, but his negatives far outweighed his hustle since his hustle often led to him being out of position.If you could put Trenton Hassell's head in Williams' body, Williams would have been a superstar. There has never been a better description of the million-dollar body and the five-cent head.Right now, the Nets have only one player in the rotation who has been above average. Poor coaching has been a big part of this disaster, but the reality is that the Nets have only two decent players, and one of them (Harris) has been mostly hurt.There is no other grade for the Nets as a team other than a big "F."
fault this year is that he has not player his best when going up against big (as in size) opponents. He does need to do a better job of setting up low in the post so that he does not have to work as hard once he gets the ball in the post.Yi Jianlian: DYi is playing smarter yet worse overall. He still has trouble finishing in the paint. He is blocking more shots, but it is at the cost of playing worse on the ball defense.The improvement in his numbers is almost entirely related to increased playing time. However, he once again has been hurt and is not a reliable player.Basically, he is too robotic and lacks the necessary efficiency in his body movements to excel on the NBA level. The Nets would be wise to cut their losses with Yi and look for a new power forward. Better yet, they should give more time to his backups.Kris Humphries: C+With the Nets, Humphries has shown some ability. In 23 minutes, he is averaging 10.1 points and 7.3 rebounds. By way of comparison, Yi is averaging 12.8 points and 6.9 rebounds in 32 minutes. Humphries is the better player and should be the starter.Humphries is a natural rebounder and much more athletic than any of the other power forwards on the roster. He is willing to do the dirty work and is a much better fit next to Lopez.Josh Boone: C-Boone can rebound OK and sets a good pick. He does not play good defense, though, as he lacks lateral quickness. Also, he can't shoot. In general, he should have become Dale Davis, but he's not even as good as Chris Wilcox. He is another waste of space. However, since not much was expected, it is hard to be too critical.Chris Douglas-Roberts: CHe mostly plays hard but has been a disappointment. His lack of a consistent jump shot has held him back, and he lacks the size and quickness to effectively guard most small forwards.He was expected to be the Net who could create his own shot from the wing. However, that ability has not emerged. He is still young and probably needs more time to develop, but he is best served in his current role as a sixth man. Unfortunately, the Nets lack a true starting-caliber small forward.Terrence Williams: FHe should be the starting small forward, but his poor play has been so poor that he is dangerously near "bust" status. He can't shoot but takes mostly jump shots. He can handle the ball well but forgets to focus on creating for teammates. He is very athletic, but his defense is poor because he is frequently out of position.Jarvis Hayes: CHayes is exactly what he isa replacement-level player. Ideally, he would be the solid veteran off the bench. However, the poor play of CDR and Williams has forced the Nets to put Hayes into the starting lineup. It is a shame that injuries have ruined his athleticism, because he is a very smart player.Trenton Hassell: B-He is a smart, heady player who plays below the rim. He's also a tough and physical defender, but he is a poor shooter, so he hurts the team on offense if he has to shoot beyond 16 feet.Since Hayes has more range, he plays more since Hassell fills a similar role. He could help Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
a contender that already has plenty of scoring. On this team, his skills are wasted. He gets the second-best grade on this team for playing hard every time he gets the chance and always playing within himself.Courtney Lee: DHe was supposed to be the rough perimeter defender who would knock down the open jump shots created by Harris and Lopez. Instead, his defense has been inconsistent and he seems to have forgotten how to shoot. He is shooting 29.6 percent from three-point range, which is horrible for a player who supposedly can shoot.He often makes the wrong reads on defense and leaves his man open on doubles. The biggest reason the Nets are this bad is that they traded Vince Carter for Lee. Carter may be having a poor year, but he is still light years more dangerous a player.Devin Harris: C-Injuries are the biggest reason for his lack of success. He has lacked that explosive quickness that he showed last year. His shooting is down in all respects, and his defense has been spotty.He has started to play better recently, though, and he is still the Nets' second-best player. When he plays well, the Nets have a chance to win. If he plays poorly, the Nets have no chance.Keyon Dooling: CHe has been solid as a backup point guard. He has been decent as a shooter. He has been a decent defender. He has been a decent ball handler. Sadly, on this team, decent qualifies as good by comparison.Bobby Simmons: FWhat happened to the tough defender and solid jump shooter? When he was with the Clippers, he was a true pain to play. He always played hard and he earned everyone's respect. That player never showed up this year. He looks like he is going through the motions. The Nets should just cut him now and let someone who wants to prove he belongs to the team.Chris Quinn: DQuinn shoots the ball well from three-point range. However, he can't create and is a poor ball handler for a point guard. The best part of his game other than his shooting is that he still cares. That is not enough to get a better grade, but he is not a waste of roster space.Rafer Alston and Sean Williams: FBoth are gone, but both deserve some mention.Alston is perhaps as big a reason as to why the Nets started 0-18 and Lawrence Frank got fired. "Skip to My Lou" was expected to provide leadership and heady point guard play, and when Harris got hurt, Alston got major minutes. Instead, he stunk.He shot less than 40 percent, taking mostly stupid jump shots and missing layups. His defense was poor, as he took too many chances trying to go for steals instead of just staying in front of his man. If ever there was a player who deserved to get cut, it was Alston.Williams was a basketball knucklehead when he was drafted and he has remained a knucklehead. He actually tried hard, but he never seemed to understand Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
the offense or proper defensive rotations. He helped win an occasional game with his hustle and rebounding, but his negatives far outweighed his hustle since his hustle often led to him being out of position.If you could put Trenton Hassell's head in Williams' body, Williams would have been a superstar. There has never been a better description of the million-dollar body and the five-cent head.Right now, the Nets have only one player in the rotation who has been above average. Poor coaching has been a big part of this disaster, but the reality is that the Nets have only two decent players, and one of them (Harris) has been mostly hurt.There is no other grade for the Nets as a team other than a big "F."
2011年1月9日星期日
9 Jan 11 Uncontested Shots: Lakers News, Notes, and Observations Heading Into March
Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesAs the NBA regular season begins its final full month of action, there are still a lot of unanswered questions.While the top seeds in each conferences seem to be locked up by the Lakers and Cavaliers, the 14 other playoff seeds, as well as home-court advantage throughout the playoffs, are up in the air.In the aftermath of the Lakers' come-from-behind victory over the Nuggets on Sunday night, I figured now would be a good time for my latest round of Uncontested Shots.Without further ado.... More Rumors Regarding Buffalo Bills jersey
LeBron to the LakersHoopsHype columnist and well-respected NBA writer/historian Roland Lazenby wrote a post on his blog on Sunday stating that LeBron James is, "quietly making overtures to the Los Angeles Lakers," based on knowledge from an "unimpeachable" source.Understand that Lazenby's post should be taken a lot more serious than the one that Bulls.com writer, Sam Smith wrote back in November .While Smith's article was mostly written on a hunch, Lazenby's comes from a "well-connected agent."There are a few things that need to be considered. First and foremost, I don't think LeBron is leaving Cleveland. So before any Cavs fans start writing me hate messages, this is really for me to explain how the move would be possible, and not why it's probable.Personally, I think LeBron will sign a three or four-year extension, and explore free agency in a few years when he's still only 28 or 29.My first instinct was that the rumor had been put out by the Lakers as an attempt to expedite Kobe's extension—something that was once considered a foregone conclusion, but now raises questions with each day it remains unsigned.The idea being that if Kobe isn't interested in signing an extension this season and decides to opt out of the final year on his current deal, he runs the risk of the Lakers turning their attention to LeBron. Isn't that exactly what the Lakers did when they turned their attention to Ron Artest once Trevor Ariza's agent turned down their initial offer?The largest obstacle standing in the way of LeBron joining the Lakers is their salary cap next season, even without Kobe's contract. So unless LeBron decided to play for the mid-level exemption, there's no way they could match the type of offers that LeBron will get from the Cavs, Knicks, Bulls, or any other team with significant cap space this summer.There is always the possibility that the Lakers and Cavs could pull off a sign-and-trade.One school of thought says that if LeBron was intent on leaving Cleveland, the Cavs wouldn't help accommodate him with a sign-and-trade—preferring to watch him lose out on millions by leaving.The other side of that argument is that the Cavs are currently committed to Antawn Jamison, Mo Williams, Anderson Varejao, and Daniel Gibson for at least the next two seasons and might prefer to at least get something of value in return if LeBron is indeed intent on leaving.It's not as if the Cavs would have much cap space to add a quality player if LeBron decided to leave via free agency. It would be in their best interest to at least acquire an asset or two to remain competitive and rebuild in the aftermath of his departure.If you were a Cavs fan and LeBron was dead set on leaving, would you rather his wallet suffer and receive nothing in return, or see your team acquire Andrew Bynum, and either Lamar Odom or Ron Artest?If the Cavs weren't willing to trade him away, the only way he could join the Lakers would be by accepting the mid-level exemption for three years before the Lakers would own his Bird Rights, aCarolina Panthers jersey
nd be able to reward him with a new contract.Considering the NBA's current collective bargaining agreement is set to expire after next season, there's no guarantee that would still be a possibility with the new CBA.Again, I'm not suggesting this as a real possibility so much as it is an explanation of how it could happen.In other words, it's unlikely but not impossible.?In Defense of Lakers FansI've been a Lakers season-ticket holder for 21 years. I've heard every joke about Laker fans being fakes and phonies, arriving late to games just to leave early.I'll never defend the lame taco promotion that's done nothing to change the perception of Laker fans. In case you don't know what I'm talking about, there's a promotion at every home game where every fan receives a coupon for two free tacos if the Lakers win and hold their opponents under 100 points.As a result, many Lakers fans seem to get a kick out of chanting "We want tacos!" the moment they realize it's within reach.Consider that the average cost of a Lakers ticket is $107, and the cost of two tacos at Jack In The Box is 99 cents.I can't get over the fact that these people go berserk over free tacos when 99 percent of them have enough change in their car's ashtray to afford not one, but two of these greasy colon-cloggers.Let's also not forget that this is Los Angeles we're talking about. A city that's home to better Mexican restaurants and taco stands than even Tijuana or Cancún, and yet it's the tacos from a San Diego-based fast-food chain that causes them to turn into four-year-olds.I can't tell you how embarrassing it was during the Lakers game on Feb. 16 against Golden State when Laker fans began chanting for tacos as Stephen Curry made a layup with 1:31 left in the game and the Lakers only up by five points.A two-possession game and instead of "Defense!" chants they were chanting for freakin' tacos!I just want people to know that I can be as critical, if not more so, than those complaining about what happened on Sunday afternoon at Staples Center.There was much criticism on the Internet regarding the Laker fans' booing of the team's first-half performance.I wasn't at Sunday's game but I've been to a number of games where fans have booed the home team—including the game in which Kobe scored 81 points, and Game 7 against Portland in the 2000 Western Conference Finals.These critics need to understand the difference between booing performance and booing effort.If a team is giving their all and shots just aren't falling, then booing is totally unacceptable. If a team is showing a lack of passion and effort in a game that many labeled a "must win," then in my opinion, it's completely acceptable given the average cost of a ticket.There's no doubt about it: Laker fans are spoiled. Where fans in Portland or Chicago Bears jersey
Cleveland consider it their duty to inspire their team from the get-go, Laker fans rely on the team's effort to give them a reason to cheer.See the difference?I'm not excusing their behavior as much as I am explaining it.Laker fans have a standard by which they measure a team's greatness that is unlike any other team in the league, and I don't even think reading my article helps explain what I'm talking about.Anything less than that type of effort is completely unacceptable.The fact that the Trail Blazers haven't won a championship since 1977, and the Cavaliers have never won one might explain why their fans are so passionate. No matter how passionate Laker fans might be, it's impossible for them to pretend to mimic the voice and passion of a fan base as desperate for a championship as those in Portland and Cleveland.The fact that the Lakers came out for the second half with a vengeance gave their fans a reason to cheer and they responded.There were some fans and beat writers in Portland who couldn't understand how the Blazers and Lakers tied for third in a survey that asked the league's general managers, "Which team has the best home court advantage?"Both teams received three out of a possible 29 votes (the Cavs finished first with 11, and Utah finished second with nine).Part of the reason the Lakers finished third was because tough teams would be hard to beat, even in an empty arena. But another reason, contrary to popular belief, is because the Staples Center can be an intimidating place for opponents when the building is as popping as it was during the second half of Sunday's game. How Will Shaq's Thumb Injury Factor in the Race For Home-Court Advantage?Even though the Lakers and Cavs are only separated by one game in the standings, the Cavs virtually have a two-game lead in light of the fact that they won both regular season meetings between the two.The Cavs are expected to be without O'Neal for the next eight weeks and won't be able to re-sign Zydrunas Ilgauskas until March 22.If that's the case, the Cavs can expect to be without Ilgauskas for the next 11 games.Lucky for them, there aren't many challenging games during that stretch.In fact, the entire month of March doesn't pose much of a challenge for the Cavs.With the exception of potential trap games at Milwaukee and at New Orleans, the only games that should worry Cavs fans are road games at Chicago and San Antonio, and a date at home with the Celtics (if you still consider them a challenge).While both teams have 22 games left heading into Monday night, the Lakers play 14 on the road while the Cavs only have 10 of those away from home.You could make the case that the Lakers have as many tough road games as the Cavs have total road games left.Of the Lakers' 14 remaining road games, they include matchups against Miami, Charlotte, Orlando, Phoenix, San Antonio, Oklahoma City, Houston, New Orleans, Atlanta, and Denver.That list doesn't include home games against San Antonio, Portland, and Utah.The Cavs' toughest remaining road games are against the Celtics, Bulls (twice), Hawks, Bucks, Hornets, and Spurs.Their toughest home games are against the Magic, Celtics, Spurs, Hawks, and Raptors.Make no mistake, even with Shaq's injury, the Cavs are still in the driver's seat to claim home court advantage should the two teams meet in the Finals. I Don't Know What To Make Of ItThe Lakers already have one fewer loss than they had all of last season. Of the Lakers' 16 losses last season, six came against teams that would end the season below .500.This season, the Lakers have only lost one game to a team that currently has a losing record—the Clippers on Jan. 6.While it's encouraging that they haven't suffered lapses against the league's worst teams, it can't be a good sign that Cincinnati Bengals jersey
they've struggled in the games against the league's best.Against the other nine teams that make up the league's top ten records, the Lakers have an unimpressive 10-9 record.The silver lining in their difficult remaining schedule is that they have a golden opportunity to silence critics with an impressive showing heading into the playoffs.In the meantime, critics and fans will continue doubting their ability to repeat.Considering how they've played in many of those tough games up until now, you can't really blame them for doing so.Andrew Ungvari is a Senior Writer and Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report.Follow him on twitter .
LeBron to the LakersHoopsHype columnist and well-respected NBA writer/historian Roland Lazenby wrote a post on his blog on Sunday stating that LeBron James is, "quietly making overtures to the Los Angeles Lakers," based on knowledge from an "unimpeachable" source.Understand that Lazenby's post should be taken a lot more serious than the one that Bulls.com writer, Sam Smith wrote back in November .While Smith's article was mostly written on a hunch, Lazenby's comes from a "well-connected agent."There are a few things that need to be considered. First and foremost, I don't think LeBron is leaving Cleveland. So before any Cavs fans start writing me hate messages, this is really for me to explain how the move would be possible, and not why it's probable.Personally, I think LeBron will sign a three or four-year extension, and explore free agency in a few years when he's still only 28 or 29.My first instinct was that the rumor had been put out by the Lakers as an attempt to expedite Kobe's extension—something that was once considered a foregone conclusion, but now raises questions with each day it remains unsigned.The idea being that if Kobe isn't interested in signing an extension this season and decides to opt out of the final year on his current deal, he runs the risk of the Lakers turning their attention to LeBron. Isn't that exactly what the Lakers did when they turned their attention to Ron Artest once Trevor Ariza's agent turned down their initial offer?The largest obstacle standing in the way of LeBron joining the Lakers is their salary cap next season, even without Kobe's contract. So unless LeBron decided to play for the mid-level exemption, there's no way they could match the type of offers that LeBron will get from the Cavs, Knicks, Bulls, or any other team with significant cap space this summer.There is always the possibility that the Lakers and Cavs could pull off a sign-and-trade.One school of thought says that if LeBron was intent on leaving Cleveland, the Cavs wouldn't help accommodate him with a sign-and-trade—preferring to watch him lose out on millions by leaving.The other side of that argument is that the Cavs are currently committed to Antawn Jamison, Mo Williams, Anderson Varejao, and Daniel Gibson for at least the next two seasons and might prefer to at least get something of value in return if LeBron is indeed intent on leaving.It's not as if the Cavs would have much cap space to add a quality player if LeBron decided to leave via free agency. It would be in their best interest to at least acquire an asset or two to remain competitive and rebuild in the aftermath of his departure.If you were a Cavs fan and LeBron was dead set on leaving, would you rather his wallet suffer and receive nothing in return, or see your team acquire Andrew Bynum, and either Lamar Odom or Ron Artest?If the Cavs weren't willing to trade him away, the only way he could join the Lakers would be by accepting the mid-level exemption for three years before the Lakers would own his Bird Rights, aCarolina Panthers jersey
nd be able to reward him with a new contract.Considering the NBA's current collective bargaining agreement is set to expire after next season, there's no guarantee that would still be a possibility with the new CBA.Again, I'm not suggesting this as a real possibility so much as it is an explanation of how it could happen.In other words, it's unlikely but not impossible.?In Defense of Lakers FansI've been a Lakers season-ticket holder for 21 years. I've heard every joke about Laker fans being fakes and phonies, arriving late to games just to leave early.I'll never defend the lame taco promotion that's done nothing to change the perception of Laker fans. In case you don't know what I'm talking about, there's a promotion at every home game where every fan receives a coupon for two free tacos if the Lakers win and hold their opponents under 100 points.As a result, many Lakers fans seem to get a kick out of chanting "We want tacos!" the moment they realize it's within reach.Consider that the average cost of a Lakers ticket is $107, and the cost of two tacos at Jack In The Box is 99 cents.I can't get over the fact that these people go berserk over free tacos when 99 percent of them have enough change in their car's ashtray to afford not one, but two of these greasy colon-cloggers.Let's also not forget that this is Los Angeles we're talking about. A city that's home to better Mexican restaurants and taco stands than even Tijuana or Cancún, and yet it's the tacos from a San Diego-based fast-food chain that causes them to turn into four-year-olds.I can't tell you how embarrassing it was during the Lakers game on Feb. 16 against Golden State when Laker fans began chanting for tacos as Stephen Curry made a layup with 1:31 left in the game and the Lakers only up by five points.A two-possession game and instead of "Defense!" chants they were chanting for freakin' tacos!I just want people to know that I can be as critical, if not more so, than those complaining about what happened on Sunday afternoon at Staples Center.There was much criticism on the Internet regarding the Laker fans' booing of the team's first-half performance.I wasn't at Sunday's game but I've been to a number of games where fans have booed the home team—including the game in which Kobe scored 81 points, and Game 7 against Portland in the 2000 Western Conference Finals.These critics need to understand the difference between booing performance and booing effort.If a team is giving their all and shots just aren't falling, then booing is totally unacceptable. If a team is showing a lack of passion and effort in a game that many labeled a "must win," then in my opinion, it's completely acceptable given the average cost of a ticket.There's no doubt about it: Laker fans are spoiled. Where fans in Portland or Chicago Bears jersey
Cleveland consider it their duty to inspire their team from the get-go, Laker fans rely on the team's effort to give them a reason to cheer.See the difference?I'm not excusing their behavior as much as I am explaining it.Laker fans have a standard by which they measure a team's greatness that is unlike any other team in the league, and I don't even think reading my article helps explain what I'm talking about.Anything less than that type of effort is completely unacceptable.The fact that the Trail Blazers haven't won a championship since 1977, and the Cavaliers have never won one might explain why their fans are so passionate. No matter how passionate Laker fans might be, it's impossible for them to pretend to mimic the voice and passion of a fan base as desperate for a championship as those in Portland and Cleveland.The fact that the Lakers came out for the second half with a vengeance gave their fans a reason to cheer and they responded.There were some fans and beat writers in Portland who couldn't understand how the Blazers and Lakers tied for third in a survey that asked the league's general managers, "Which team has the best home court advantage?"Both teams received three out of a possible 29 votes (the Cavs finished first with 11, and Utah finished second with nine).Part of the reason the Lakers finished third was because tough teams would be hard to beat, even in an empty arena. But another reason, contrary to popular belief, is because the Staples Center can be an intimidating place for opponents when the building is as popping as it was during the second half of Sunday's game. How Will Shaq's Thumb Injury Factor in the Race For Home-Court Advantage?Even though the Lakers and Cavs are only separated by one game in the standings, the Cavs virtually have a two-game lead in light of the fact that they won both regular season meetings between the two.The Cavs are expected to be without O'Neal for the next eight weeks and won't be able to re-sign Zydrunas Ilgauskas until March 22.If that's the case, the Cavs can expect to be without Ilgauskas for the next 11 games.Lucky for them, there aren't many challenging games during that stretch.In fact, the entire month of March doesn't pose much of a challenge for the Cavs.With the exception of potential trap games at Milwaukee and at New Orleans, the only games that should worry Cavs fans are road games at Chicago and San Antonio, and a date at home with the Celtics (if you still consider them a challenge).While both teams have 22 games left heading into Monday night, the Lakers play 14 on the road while the Cavs only have 10 of those away from home.You could make the case that the Lakers have as many tough road games as the Cavs have total road games left.Of the Lakers' 14 remaining road games, they include matchups against Miami, Charlotte, Orlando, Phoenix, San Antonio, Oklahoma City, Houston, New Orleans, Atlanta, and Denver.That list doesn't include home games against San Antonio, Portland, and Utah.The Cavs' toughest remaining road games are against the Celtics, Bulls (twice), Hawks, Bucks, Hornets, and Spurs.Their toughest home games are against the Magic, Celtics, Spurs, Hawks, and Raptors.Make no mistake, even with Shaq's injury, the Cavs are still in the driver's seat to claim home court advantage should the two teams meet in the Finals. I Don't Know What To Make Of ItThe Lakers already have one fewer loss than they had all of last season. Of the Lakers' 16 losses last season, six came against teams that would end the season below .500.This season, the Lakers have only lost one game to a team that currently has a losing record—the Clippers on Jan. 6.While it's encouraging that they haven't suffered lapses against the league's worst teams, it can't be a good sign that Cincinnati Bengals jersey
they've struggled in the games against the league's best.Against the other nine teams that make up the league's top ten records, the Lakers have an unimpressive 10-9 record.The silver lining in their difficult remaining schedule is that they have a golden opportunity to silence critics with an impressive showing heading into the playoffs.In the meantime, critics and fans will continue doubting their ability to repeat.Considering how they've played in many of those tough games up until now, you can't really blame them for doing so.Andrew Ungvari is a Senior Writer and Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report.Follow him on twitter .
2011年1月8日星期六
8 Jan 11 Keys to the Wolf Den: Positives from the Minnesota Timberwolves Season
Christian Petersen/Getty Images(long sigh...)Ok, this season is filled with losses, lost effort, horrible defense, and poor offensive execution.What is there to take positive from this season?David Kahn, the Minnesota Timberwolves proved one thing, he means what he says.Although all the offers, David Kahn has kept his Cincinnati Bengals jersey
word by not trading any of his core players, and using this season to evaluate the players that he has before trading them.While David Kahn has evaluated his players, I as a Wolves fan/writer has done the same thing, and I've come up with some positive things to take into next season.First off, the basics:Lottery pick (1-4), the 17th pick, and the 24th pick for the 2010 NBA draft. The 14th and 16th pick in the second round. Kevin Love, Corey Brewer and Wayne Ellington all made significant strides. Cap space. Nikola Pekovic. Known as possibly the best Euro center is ready to come to the Timberwolves.Let's get into some detailed positives:Corey Brewer's dunk over Derek Fisher , and his dunk over Robin Lopez. Corey Brewer's 33 straight consecutive games with at least one three-point shot and counting. Cleveland Browns jersey
Wayne Ellington's efficiency. In Oct and Nov, Ellington shot 30 percent from the field, and 26 percent from the three-point line. In February and March, Ellington is shooting 48 percent from the field and close to 60 percent from the three-point line. Wayne Ellington is going to be a sharpshooting role player. Al Jefferson passing out of the double team, and tying his career high 6 assists in a game. Jonny Flynn can score the basketball despite his size. Kevin Love rebounding the basketball with the best in the league and showing the edge to score from anywhere on the court. Kevin Love's outlet passing has become a signature dish. Corey Brewer's potential doubled on this season's flashes alone. Ryan Hollins posterizes Andray Blatche , and everyone else in the league. Corey Brewer's buzzer beater and Dallas Cowboys jersey
this one also, not too shabby . Darko Millicic showing some insight as to how the Wolves should go in drafting or signing a center. Victories over the Denver Nuggets and Utah Jazz away from home.Did I miss any?Thanks for reading!P.S- This team would love Evan Turner and Hassan Whiteside right now.
word by not trading any of his core players, and using this season to evaluate the players that he has before trading them.While David Kahn has evaluated his players, I as a Wolves fan/writer has done the same thing, and I've come up with some positive things to take into next season.First off, the basics:Lottery pick (1-4), the 17th pick, and the 24th pick for the 2010 NBA draft. The 14th and 16th pick in the second round. Kevin Love, Corey Brewer and Wayne Ellington all made significant strides. Cap space. Nikola Pekovic. Known as possibly the best Euro center is ready to come to the Timberwolves.Let's get into some detailed positives:Corey Brewer's dunk over Derek Fisher , and his dunk over Robin Lopez. Corey Brewer's 33 straight consecutive games with at least one three-point shot and counting. Cleveland Browns jersey
Wayne Ellington's efficiency. In Oct and Nov, Ellington shot 30 percent from the field, and 26 percent from the three-point line. In February and March, Ellington is shooting 48 percent from the field and close to 60 percent from the three-point line. Wayne Ellington is going to be a sharpshooting role player. Al Jefferson passing out of the double team, and tying his career high 6 assists in a game. Jonny Flynn can score the basketball despite his size. Kevin Love rebounding the basketball with the best in the league and showing the edge to score from anywhere on the court. Kevin Love's outlet passing has become a signature dish. Corey Brewer's potential doubled on this season's flashes alone. Ryan Hollins posterizes Andray Blatche , and everyone else in the league. Corey Brewer's buzzer beater and Dallas Cowboys jersey
this one also, not too shabby . Darko Millicic showing some insight as to how the Wolves should go in drafting or signing a center. Victories over the Denver Nuggets and Utah Jazz away from home.Did I miss any?Thanks for reading!P.S- This team would love Evan Turner and Hassan Whiteside right now.
2010年12月30日星期四
30 Dec 10 Oklahoma City Thunder: Contender or Pretender?
Elsa/Getty ImagesThroughout the season, the Oklahoma City Thunder has been defying the odds by sustaining winning streaks and playing stifling defense.They have played out of their minds all year when most analysts predicted them to either finish just below the top eight teams in the Western Conference or just make the playoffs.The Thunder have gotten as high as fourth in the Western Conference, and could possibly finish there by the end of the season.The question is: Are the Oklahoma City Thunder a contender or a pretender? Can they legitimately Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
pose a threat to the top teams in the Western Conference?The top four teams in the Western Conference right now are the Lakers, Jazz, Mavericks, and Suns. These teams have been consistent all year, and so have the Oklahoma City Thunder.They have gone on a nine game winning streak, and have stayed within striking distanceofwinning the Northwest Division.They have stayed consistent all season by playing great team defense; they hold teams to 96.9 points per game, and also limit all opponents 44 percent shooting from the field.They also have Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
one of the best players in the NBA in Kevin Durant. He has made major strides this year in every category, and is willing his team to wins.Durantisn't their only good player, they also have Russell Westbrook, who has the talent to be a future All-Star, and is already contributing a lot to the team.They also have a couple of young up-and-coming players in James Harden, Serge Ibaka, and Eric Maynor. These playershave contributed to the team in different areas.James Harden has provided them with a scorer off the bench with his 9.9 points per game, Arizona Cardinals jersey
Serge Ibaka has given them a much-needed shot blocker with his 1.3 blocks per game, and Eric Maynor has given them a backup point guard.This team has proven all year that they are contenders, and they will continue to prove it. This team is ready, and they should win their first series and pose a threat to the team they play in the second round.
pose a threat to the top teams in the Western Conference?The top four teams in the Western Conference right now are the Lakers, Jazz, Mavericks, and Suns. These teams have been consistent all year, and so have the Oklahoma City Thunder.They have gone on a nine game winning streak, and have stayed within striking distanceofwinning the Northwest Division.They have stayed consistent all season by playing great team defense; they hold teams to 96.9 points per game, and also limit all opponents 44 percent shooting from the field.They also have Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
one of the best players in the NBA in Kevin Durant. He has made major strides this year in every category, and is willing his team to wins.Durantisn't their only good player, they also have Russell Westbrook, who has the talent to be a future All-Star, and is already contributing a lot to the team.They also have a couple of young up-and-coming players in James Harden, Serge Ibaka, and Eric Maynor. These playershave contributed to the team in different areas.James Harden has provided them with a scorer off the bench with his 9.9 points per game, Arizona Cardinals jersey
Serge Ibaka has given them a much-needed shot blocker with his 1.3 blocks per game, and Eric Maynor has given them a backup point guard.This team has proven all year that they are contenders, and they will continue to prove it. This team is ready, and they should win their first series and pose a threat to the team they play in the second round.
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