Elsa/Getty ImagesKobe Bryant recently signed a three year extension that keeps him wearing a LA Lakers jersey at least until his 35th birthday. This is not only good for the NBA to keep Kobe in one of the league premier cities and franchises, but even better for the Lakers. The reason is simple: Kobe extension was a bargain. Yes, a total bargain. How can a $25 to $30 million new contract be a bargain? Simple reason: Championships. Do you realize Michael Jordan made $30million and $33million in his last two seasons, respectively, with the Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
Chicago Bulls. Like Kobe is attempting do, MJ snatched championships in each of those years, ending with a second three-peat. Of course, once you read that, youre thinking and even possibly screaming: MJ was better than Kobe!! Is this guy serious?? Listen: I don disagree, at least not yet (even with Kobe still having chapters to write in his NBA story.) MJ is better. Let just leave that fact alone. The Lakers getting a bargain isn about who is better between MJ and Kobe.But get this: MJ $33million was in 1997-1998, his last season with the Bulls. Do I need to say the year again? 1998! Remember that. Have you heard about a little word called inflation? That $33million is approximately $47million in 2012 dollars. (note: for you number types, take a look at the CPI index and were talking annual inflation over the span of time from 1998 to 2012, when this new contract kicks in, averaging conservatively, 2.54%, using an average of CPI from 1998 to 2009 and staying the same to 2012 to give us the inflation factor over the 14 year period. You do the math and that is the $47million.)So, compare $47million to $25million (Kobe new salary the 1st year of the extension) and you see the big difference. Is Kobe worth that much less than MJ? No way, especially with how valuable he is to his team, the league, and the final scoreboard, championships.This is why the LA Lakers got the deal of the last decade. The reason: Kobe signing the extension solidifies the team chances to win multiple rings. Will they? Well wait see, but no matter what, the team will be in the discussions, at or near the top of the standings. That alone was worth the money. On top of that, when the Lakers go super deep into the playoffs, they rack up the extra funds the NBA dishes out to teams. Last year, they received in excess of $20million. Kobe bringing them to the finals is almost a wash, not to mention keeping the Lakers as the marquee team in the NBA, the finely tuned marketing machine. You can slice and dice this transaction any number of ways and it is all a great business decision by Dr. Buss. (Don forget, this is the same guy who dealt away Shaq because he chose not to pay for deteriorating talent. Dr. Buss and his organization know what they are Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
doing.)Lastly, for all the haters who say Kobe on the backside of his prime, go right ahead. Ill actually join in. Let give a shout out right now on how he is declining. Now that weve done that, back to business.Sure, Kobe got a ton of minutes on that body (to steal from Indiana Jones, we know it not the years but the miles) but Kobe, more than anyone, takes amazing care of his body. I don see him breaking down. And, Ill point to MJ, again.Michael Jordan game changed as he aged. If you don believe this, just think of his patented moves. Early in the career, it was fly over everyone. Into his prime and beyond, MJ developed a deadly post-up game (Phil Jackson by admission stated MJ was the primary post threat in the Bull triangle O), and who can forget all of those fadeaways MJ took. I try not to remember nor think about when he went to the Wizards in his 3rd tour of duty (Ive struck that period from my brain), but even then, MJ averaged over 20 points per game, at 40 plus years old. He did that because his game changed. He put in the work.Kobe is a FedEx/Kinkos copy of MJ. He put himself under the scanner and out came a comparable game to MJ. Where Kobe lands as the greatest of all-time is another discussion (note: read our one-on-one matchup from an earlier post in March 2010 to see who we think would win in a head to head game.) But Kobe super dedicated to his body and to improving his game. There is no denying that. He keeps his body in top shape and that is the first step to maintain playing at the high level I know he will over the extension period. And, for the haters, Im already noticing this season, especially with the foot injury mid-season, that Kobe doesn quite have the lift he has had in the past. But, like MJ, that hasn stopped him and most people, even the so-called NBA experts and commentators, have failed to notice this change in Kobe game. He is still mamba quick, but doesn finish above the rim like before. Doesn't matter. He developed a post game that will only improve. Watch and see.The final score: There is no reason with the way the Lakers are currently assembled, barring that NBA curse word injuries, that LA doesn get or at least compete for a few more championships. The team is Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
simply too well built and the Buss organization too masterful that they won course correct if a new need arises. This is the reason the resigning of Kobe is both brilliant and a bargain. That is the cheapest $25 to $30million dollars the Lakers and Dr. Buss will ever spend. Let the Debate Begin!!Please leave me your comments and thoughts. And, Vote!Don forget to add me as a followed writer to keep informed of new articles!
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 NBA Playoffs: Five Rookies Who Will Change the Postseason
Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesWhen the regular season comes to an end, the veteran, more experienced teams usually tend to rise to the top, filling out the eight playoff seeds. Because that is the case, there are likely very few teams with rookies handling key roles. With that being said, careers are made in the postseason, so here is our take on the five rookies who could change the outcome of various playoff series.Brandon JenningsIf there is anyone who could beat Kings star Tyreke Evans for Rookie ofReebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
the Year, it's probably Jennings. After starting the season with a 55-point game, Jennings has kept up a very high level of play. His game is more balanced than those who called him a chucker coming into the season could have imagined. On the year, Jennings has averaged 16 points, six assists, and three rebounds per game.The Bucks drew the Hawks as their first-round matchup, which based on past performance, may be a terrible matchup for Jennings. The load offensively will be even more on his shoulders with the injury to Andrew Bogut late in the regular season. Against the Hawks this season, Jennings has only scored nine points a game and shot only 28 percent from the floor and 18 percent from behind the arc. In his latest game against the Hawks, he scored 21 points, but took 23 shots to get there. Hopefully, Jennings can bounce back and lead the Bucks and keep their season alive.James HardenThe Oklahoma City Thunder are the best young team in the NBA, stealing that crown from the Portland Trailblazers. For their efforts this season, they get the Lakers in the first round. Harden has been a role player for the Thunder all season, playing third or fourth option depending on who he sharing court time with. In a limited role, he managed to score 10 points, three rebounds, and two assists in 22 minutes per game this season.The Thunder will matchup with the defending champion Lakers in their first playoff series in Oklahoma City. Harden, a California native, has struggled shooting the ball in the Thunder four games against LA, shooting just 27 percent from the field and 21 percent from behind the arc. In order to really make this a series, the Thunder will need Harden to step up. Kobe and Artest will try and put the shackles on Durant and Westbrook, so a third option is an absolute necessity.Taj Gibson Taj Gibson has been a welcome addition to this young Chicago Bulls squad. Entering the season, he seemed unlikely to receive large amounts of playing time. Through a good work ethic, strong defense, and steady play, Gibson has earned a consistent role in the Bulls rotation, starting 70 games this season. His minutes just kept going up, now playing 30-plus a night these last two months heading into the playoffs.With the trade of John Salmons and injuries to Luol Deng and Joakim Noah over the course of the year, Gibson also needed to increase his production and has largely delivered. He provides a consistent front court presence, averaging a near double-double and the defensive bonus of a block-and-a-half every night.By securing their playoff spot on the final day of Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
the regular season, Gibson and the Bulls won themselves a first-round matchup with LeBron James. Gibson will have his hands full with a deep Cleveland front court that includes Antawn Jamison, Anderson Varejao, and Shaq. The Bulls clearly have the toughest task of any team in first round.Wesley Matthews Wesley Matthews went from undrafted rookie to the starting shooting guard for a 53-win playoff team. Due to early season injuries of Utah wing players CJ Miles and Kyle Korver, Matthews was given a chance to prove himself and he delivered. When everyone came back healthy, Coach Jerry Sloan still found minutes for the rookie. His emergence even made the Jazz feel confident enough to trade away their previous starting shooting guard, Ronnie Brewer.Matthews has started in his place ever since and has hardly looked like an undrafted player. He an efficient scorer, shooting near 50 percent from the field and north of 40 percent from three. The long ball also adds another wrinkle to the offense that Brewer just couldn offer. Matthews presence should force defenses to play a little more honest with his jump shooting ability.By losing on the last day of the regular season, the Jazz dropped from third to fifth, setting up a first-round matchup with the Denver Nuggets. The Nuggets have terrific perimeter play, but Matthews primary task will be to keep reserve JR Smith from getting hot off the bench, as he always a threat to do so. He might also be called on to guard the veteran Chauncey Billups for stretches of the game so as to free up Deron Williams from the risk of foul trouble on the defensive end.DeJuan BlairFor reasons that not many fans understood, DeJuan Blair found himself in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft. That morning there were rumblings about Blair going No. 11 to the Pacers, even if he slid past Indiana, someone would jump on him, right? Well, the Spurs finally did with the 37th selection. Now Blair is going to be one of the few rookies playing a serious role for a playoff team.On the season, Blair has been asked to play both center and power forward for an aging Spurs team that has had some injuries. He is playing 18 minutes per game and contributing eight points and six rebounds. However, the minutes he kept off Tim Duncan's aging body is probably his biggest contribution.Against the Mavericks in the first round, hell be asked to bang inside with Erick Dampier and may see time on Dirk Nowitzki. We have little question whether he can handle Dampier down low, but if Nowitzki keeps playing around the perimeter, it a terrible mismatch Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
for Blair. In his career against Dallas, he has averaged eight points and eight rebounds. What the Spurs would like to see improve is his reboundingdouble digits should be a goal for Blair every game of the series. On the defensive end to limit extra possessions for the Mavericks, and on the offensive end to create second-chance opportunities. Anything they get from Blair offensively in the series is icing if he can rebound and defend effectively.For more on the NBA Playoffs and the 2010 NBA Draft visit The Rookie Wall!
the Year, it's probably Jennings. After starting the season with a 55-point game, Jennings has kept up a very high level of play. His game is more balanced than those who called him a chucker coming into the season could have imagined. On the year, Jennings has averaged 16 points, six assists, and three rebounds per game.The Bucks drew the Hawks as their first-round matchup, which based on past performance, may be a terrible matchup for Jennings. The load offensively will be even more on his shoulders with the injury to Andrew Bogut late in the regular season. Against the Hawks this season, Jennings has only scored nine points a game and shot only 28 percent from the floor and 18 percent from behind the arc. In his latest game against the Hawks, he scored 21 points, but took 23 shots to get there. Hopefully, Jennings can bounce back and lead the Bucks and keep their season alive.James HardenThe Oklahoma City Thunder are the best young team in the NBA, stealing that crown from the Portland Trailblazers. For their efforts this season, they get the Lakers in the first round. Harden has been a role player for the Thunder all season, playing third or fourth option depending on who he sharing court time with. In a limited role, he managed to score 10 points, three rebounds, and two assists in 22 minutes per game this season.The Thunder will matchup with the defending champion Lakers in their first playoff series in Oklahoma City. Harden, a California native, has struggled shooting the ball in the Thunder four games against LA, shooting just 27 percent from the field and 21 percent from behind the arc. In order to really make this a series, the Thunder will need Harden to step up. Kobe and Artest will try and put the shackles on Durant and Westbrook, so a third option is an absolute necessity.Taj Gibson Taj Gibson has been a welcome addition to this young Chicago Bulls squad. Entering the season, he seemed unlikely to receive large amounts of playing time. Through a good work ethic, strong defense, and steady play, Gibson has earned a consistent role in the Bulls rotation, starting 70 games this season. His minutes just kept going up, now playing 30-plus a night these last two months heading into the playoffs.With the trade of John Salmons and injuries to Luol Deng and Joakim Noah over the course of the year, Gibson also needed to increase his production and has largely delivered. He provides a consistent front court presence, averaging a near double-double and the defensive bonus of a block-and-a-half every night.By securing their playoff spot on the final day of Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
the regular season, Gibson and the Bulls won themselves a first-round matchup with LeBron James. Gibson will have his hands full with a deep Cleveland front court that includes Antawn Jamison, Anderson Varejao, and Shaq. The Bulls clearly have the toughest task of any team in first round.Wesley Matthews Wesley Matthews went from undrafted rookie to the starting shooting guard for a 53-win playoff team. Due to early season injuries of Utah wing players CJ Miles and Kyle Korver, Matthews was given a chance to prove himself and he delivered. When everyone came back healthy, Coach Jerry Sloan still found minutes for the rookie. His emergence even made the Jazz feel confident enough to trade away their previous starting shooting guard, Ronnie Brewer.Matthews has started in his place ever since and has hardly looked like an undrafted player. He an efficient scorer, shooting near 50 percent from the field and north of 40 percent from three. The long ball also adds another wrinkle to the offense that Brewer just couldn offer. Matthews presence should force defenses to play a little more honest with his jump shooting ability.By losing on the last day of the regular season, the Jazz dropped from third to fifth, setting up a first-round matchup with the Denver Nuggets. The Nuggets have terrific perimeter play, but Matthews primary task will be to keep reserve JR Smith from getting hot off the bench, as he always a threat to do so. He might also be called on to guard the veteran Chauncey Billups for stretches of the game so as to free up Deron Williams from the risk of foul trouble on the defensive end.DeJuan BlairFor reasons that not many fans understood, DeJuan Blair found himself in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft. That morning there were rumblings about Blair going No. 11 to the Pacers, even if he slid past Indiana, someone would jump on him, right? Well, the Spurs finally did with the 37th selection. Now Blair is going to be one of the few rookies playing a serious role for a playoff team.On the season, Blair has been asked to play both center and power forward for an aging Spurs team that has had some injuries. He is playing 18 minutes per game and contributing eight points and six rebounds. However, the minutes he kept off Tim Duncan's aging body is probably his biggest contribution.Against the Mavericks in the first round, hell be asked to bang inside with Erick Dampier and may see time on Dirk Nowitzki. We have little question whether he can handle Dampier down low, but if Nowitzki keeps playing around the perimeter, it a terrible mismatch Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
for Blair. In his career against Dallas, he has averaged eight points and eight rebounds. What the Spurs would like to see improve is his reboundingdouble digits should be a goal for Blair every game of the series. On the defensive end to limit extra possessions for the Mavericks, and on the offensive end to create second-chance opportunities. Anything they get from Blair offensively in the series is icing if he can rebound and defend effectively.For more on the NBA Playoffs and the 2010 NBA Draft visit The Rookie Wall!
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 2010 NBA Playoffs: What Will The Cavaliers Do to Stop Rajon Rondo?
Gregory Shamus/Getty ImagesRajon Rondo has been nothing but spectacular since the beginning of this series. Heck, he has been playing spectacular ball since the beginning of the season, and no one has realized this until now. Rondo has shown against the Cavaliers that their is Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
absolutely nothing they can do to stop him. If they defend him from scoring, he is able to make a pass. When they defend every player on the court, he is able to slice the defense and put in a lay-up.The Cavaliers have tried covering him with four different players. To Begin the series they began with Mo Williams on Rondo. Rondo Played a great game in the first half and scored 16 points, along with dishing out eight assists.Then in the second half of that game, the Cavaliers tried Anthony Parker out on him, this proved to slow him down. Rondo then only had eight points and four assists.The Cavaliers in Game Two tried Jamario Moon on him. With his lengthy arms and great speed, they thought he could cover Rondo. Boy, were they wrong. Later in the game the Cavaliers tried Delonte West on him. West was aggressive but unable to stop his passing abilities.This leaves the Cavaliers with very little options. They don't want to try Mo Williams again, but if they put Williams on Ray Allen, then Williams will struggle getting a hand in the face of the strong shooting Allen.Delonte West is a strong possibility due to his aggressiveness but the Cavs have simply no answer for Rondo.There is nobody on this roster who can cover Rondo, except for LeBron James. But Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
putting James on Rondo would leave Pierce to dominate the game.Pierce was, at first, viewed as the most dominant player on the Celtics coming into this series. But James has shut him down, leaving Rondo to take over.If the Cavaliers were toput James on Rondo, that makes Pierce open to score at will.Maybe Mike Brown should try this for half of a quarter and see how it goes, but if they do this for more than a quarter, the Cavaliers will get beat on very quickly, and LeBron will get tired from chasing the very agile Rondo around.The bottom line is this:Mike Brown must find his best defender who is a guard, whether it's West, Williams, Parker, or Moon.He needs to find a way to defend Rondo. Rondo has been scoring 50 PPG; 15.5 of those off of buckets, and the rest off of assists. Start the game with Williams on him, he is quick and can cover him for maybe eight minutes of a quarter. Then comes the last minutes of the first quarter, put Parker on him. Too begin the second quarter, bring West in to cover him until Williams is put Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
back in later on.Have Williams on him to finish out the first half. In the beginning of the second half, put Williams on him again, and halfway through, put Parker or Moon on him. Then beginning of the fourth quarter, put West on him. Then with two minutes left in the fourth quarter, let LeBron defend him, so he can do nothing to make the game closer, or extend a lead.That's just my thought, but who knows. It's Mike Brown's call.
absolutely nothing they can do to stop him. If they defend him from scoring, he is able to make a pass. When they defend every player on the court, he is able to slice the defense and put in a lay-up.The Cavaliers have tried covering him with four different players. To Begin the series they began with Mo Williams on Rondo. Rondo Played a great game in the first half and scored 16 points, along with dishing out eight assists.Then in the second half of that game, the Cavaliers tried Anthony Parker out on him, this proved to slow him down. Rondo then only had eight points and four assists.The Cavaliers in Game Two tried Jamario Moon on him. With his lengthy arms and great speed, they thought he could cover Rondo. Boy, were they wrong. Later in the game the Cavaliers tried Delonte West on him. West was aggressive but unable to stop his passing abilities.This leaves the Cavaliers with very little options. They don't want to try Mo Williams again, but if they put Williams on Ray Allen, then Williams will struggle getting a hand in the face of the strong shooting Allen.Delonte West is a strong possibility due to his aggressiveness but the Cavs have simply no answer for Rondo.There is nobody on this roster who can cover Rondo, except for LeBron James. But Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
putting James on Rondo would leave Pierce to dominate the game.Pierce was, at first, viewed as the most dominant player on the Celtics coming into this series. But James has shut him down, leaving Rondo to take over.If the Cavaliers were toput James on Rondo, that makes Pierce open to score at will.Maybe Mike Brown should try this for half of a quarter and see how it goes, but if they do this for more than a quarter, the Cavaliers will get beat on very quickly, and LeBron will get tired from chasing the very agile Rondo around.The bottom line is this:Mike Brown must find his best defender who is a guard, whether it's West, Williams, Parker, or Moon.He needs to find a way to defend Rondo. Rondo has been scoring 50 PPG; 15.5 of those off of buckets, and the rest off of assists. Start the game with Williams on him, he is quick and can cover him for maybe eight minutes of a quarter. Then comes the last minutes of the first quarter, put Parker on him. Too begin the second quarter, bring West in to cover him until Williams is put Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
back in later on.Have Williams on him to finish out the first half. In the beginning of the second half, put Williams on him again, and halfway through, put Parker or Moon on him. Then beginning of the fourth quarter, put West on him. Then with two minutes left in the fourth quarter, let LeBron defend him, so he can do nothing to make the game closer, or extend a lead.That's just my thought, but who knows. It's Mike Brown's call.
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 Sympathy For Lebron James
Elsa/Getty ImagesThe past few seasons in the NBA have been dominated by one athlete, LeBron James. While Kobe Bryant's Lakers and Kevin Garnett's Celtics have won championships, the league still keeps James as the water cooler topic. He is the one player in the NBA with the biggest potential and upside. He is coming into his own and will soon be coming into a fortune that will make most athletes look poor. On July 1st, 2010, the NBA biggest player becomes their biggest free agent. No one will have as much pressure Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
as James on what team to sign with. Already, since his Cleveland Cavaliers have been eliminated from the playoffs just a few weeks ago, he has had many people weigh in on his final destination. This list of prognosticators includes Barry Cofield and Osi Umenyiora of the New York Giants, Mark Cuban of the Dallas Mavericks, Steve Kerr of the Phoenix Suns and President Obama . Also, every New York Knicks', New Jersey Nets', Cavaliers' fan and just about every NBA fan as well, has an opinion. It is a never seen before media circus over a free agency that starts in less than 40 days. No free agent has ever had this much hype and debate. I, for one feel for him. He has all of his teammates and long time fans, most of which cheered for him as a teenager, begging for him to stay where he is. He also has celebrity friends asking him to come to New Jersey. He has fellow athletes asking him to consider New York. The leader of the free world, weighs in and requests James to go to his home town Chicago Bulls (as is they didn't have enough championships). He has owners and coaches in his league putting in their two cents on the matter. He is the ultimate tug of war rope. He must be so torn right now. The entire Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
world is at his feet. He has endorsements, sponsorships, legions of fans and mounds of money, but a decision confronting him that few could make. We all say "I'd love to have to make that decision....", but the truth is that we really wouldn't want to when you consider everyone's feelings involved. Someone will look at him as a traitor or selfish. In fact, only a certain number of people, who will be in the minority, will be happy with his choice. Therefore, he is in a lose-lose situation. He picks New York, he loses fans, he picks New Jersey, he loses fans, Cleveland, he loses fans. Anyway you look at it, he will be a bad guy to someone soon. Unfortunately, he can't make everyone happy. He needs to take his time and weigh every option very carefully. If not, he will be trapped in a bad contract with a team that can't afford to rebuild around him due to his long and massive contract. New York offers the spotlight like no one else can, along with the media scrutiny. They also may be able to afford him and another big free agent to play with him. New Jersey may in a few years be able to say this as well, after their move to Brooklyn. Until then, he will be responsible for rebuilding and choosing a team around him to command. That's enticing, but he is only so young. He is now getting into his prime and I'm sure he will not want to waste a few years in rebuilding mode after tasting the NBA finals last year. The Cavaliers offer him his home, as they have for years now. They represent what he knows and is comfortable with. The problem they may have, that I can see, is that after they spend most of their money on LeBron James, they will have little left to spend on players to go around him. Unless he Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
does a trade and sign to incorporate other teams, these three so far appear to be his main options. As the next 40 days pass by and we find out more, it will grow even more intriguing for the fans and media. Unfortunately, it will not be for LeBron James.
as James on what team to sign with. Already, since his Cleveland Cavaliers have been eliminated from the playoffs just a few weeks ago, he has had many people weigh in on his final destination. This list of prognosticators includes Barry Cofield and Osi Umenyiora of the New York Giants, Mark Cuban of the Dallas Mavericks, Steve Kerr of the Phoenix Suns and President Obama . Also, every New York Knicks', New Jersey Nets', Cavaliers' fan and just about every NBA fan as well, has an opinion. It is a never seen before media circus over a free agency that starts in less than 40 days. No free agent has ever had this much hype and debate. I, for one feel for him. He has all of his teammates and long time fans, most of which cheered for him as a teenager, begging for him to stay where he is. He also has celebrity friends asking him to come to New Jersey. He has fellow athletes asking him to consider New York. The leader of the free world, weighs in and requests James to go to his home town Chicago Bulls (as is they didn't have enough championships). He has owners and coaches in his league putting in their two cents on the matter. He is the ultimate tug of war rope. He must be so torn right now. The entire Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
world is at his feet. He has endorsements, sponsorships, legions of fans and mounds of money, but a decision confronting him that few could make. We all say "I'd love to have to make that decision....", but the truth is that we really wouldn't want to when you consider everyone's feelings involved. Someone will look at him as a traitor or selfish. In fact, only a certain number of people, who will be in the minority, will be happy with his choice. Therefore, he is in a lose-lose situation. He picks New York, he loses fans, he picks New Jersey, he loses fans, Cleveland, he loses fans. Anyway you look at it, he will be a bad guy to someone soon. Unfortunately, he can't make everyone happy. He needs to take his time and weigh every option very carefully. If not, he will be trapped in a bad contract with a team that can't afford to rebuild around him due to his long and massive contract. New York offers the spotlight like no one else can, along with the media scrutiny. They also may be able to afford him and another big free agent to play with him. New Jersey may in a few years be able to say this as well, after their move to Brooklyn. Until then, he will be responsible for rebuilding and choosing a team around him to command. That's enticing, but he is only so young. He is now getting into his prime and I'm sure he will not want to waste a few years in rebuilding mode after tasting the NBA finals last year. The Cavaliers offer him his home, as they have for years now. They represent what he knows and is comfortable with. The problem they may have, that I can see, is that after they spend most of their money on LeBron James, they will have little left to spend on players to go around him. Unless he Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
does a trade and sign to incorporate other teams, these three so far appear to be his main options. As the next 40 days pass by and we find out more, it will grow even more intriguing for the fans and media. Unfortunately, it will not be for LeBron James.
2010年12月25日星期六
26 Dec 10 Lakers v Celtics: NBA Finals Preview
Jim Rogash/Getty Imageso we are in for another classic match up between the storied Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics. Boston has lifted the trophy 17 times with their most recent victory, a 4-2 defeat of the Lakers in the 2007/2008 finals. But who has the edge?The Lakers are the defending champions and have on their roster arguably the games best player in Kobe Bryant. The defending champions run to the finals saw them dispatch the Phoenix Suns in six games. They have had a relatively successful run in the regular season amassing 57 wins while suffering 25 losses in the regular season.Blistering and blazing Boston Celtics on the other hand have had a not so great regular season but have been peaking at just the right time. Their team boasts a record of Oakland Raiders jersey
50 wins against 32 losses but in the playoffs, they have earned the scalps of the Dwayne Wade's Miami Heat, the King's Cleveland Cavaliers and fittingly last years Eastern Conference champions and NBA finalists, Superman's Orlando Magic.No strangers to competing at the highest level and winning championships, the Boston Celtics were considered the team to beat in the previous season had they not lost the services of key players including the heart of the franchise, Kevin Garnett.Many felt, and I too, that had they been at full strength they would have successfully defended their title. Now that they seem to be stronger than ever, at least, the top four key players, what are their chances to prove the pundits right.Lets take a look at some of the likely key match-ups. I'll begin with an analysis of the Lakers starting players.LOS ANGELES LAKERSKobe BryantKobe is the heart and soul of the Lakers franchise. He has to be counted twice as his importance, consistency and contribution for the Lakers matches that of at least two Boston players. It is true that the Celtics have Paul Pierce but far too often he gets lost in a game and doesn't always deliver every night.The same may be said for Ray Allen as when he is on fire he is red hot but when he is cold, he is 30 below zero cold and out of the game.Doc Rivers is likely to have his best defensive player Kevin Garnett on the sharpshooter from LA with defensive duties rotating between Ray Allen and Tony Allen.Pau GasolAs far as big men are concerned, Pau Gasol is the best power forward playing in the NBA right now. yes, he is that good. His reach, quickness and offensive skills have been lethal for the Lakers and Doc Rivers will have to go to the drawing board to contain him.I expect to see a match up between Kendrick Perkins and Rasheed Wallace on Gasol with Glen Davis providing back-up when needed.Derek FisherFisher provided leadership and a cool head who is willing and able to take those critical shots to turn a game around as well as to win a game. We have seen him do it time and time again.His likely match-up however with the faster, aggressive and hungry Rajon Rondo will leave him breathless for sure. At age 35 plus, he is not only fighting against a player in his prime and peaking but he is battling with father time.Never the less, he is dangerous from the three point line and is a reliable back up to Kobe in leading this Lakers team to another title. He has the experience and the intelligence and knows how to win.Ron Artest"Don't you know who I am? I am Ron Artest." This statement is all too familiar to Kobe Bryant but only now he has the attack dog on his side and not the other way around.An unpredictable player, Artest brings a level of Philadelphia Eagles jersey
aggression to this Lakers team and as he proved in game 5 against the Suns. he too can win matches.A factor from behind the arc, Ron will be a keen match-up for another bad boy, Rasheed Wallace, and this will make for a most interesting match-up on the court.Andrew BynumThe Laker center has been a shadow of himself since returning from injury and appears to have trouble with his mobility and movement under the basket as well as in defense.Andrew Bynum and Lamar Odom however are key players for the Lakers and their contribution will be vital for the defending champions to lift the trophy.BOSTON CELTICSKevin GarnettEvery team has its soul, that player that gets in your face and fire you up and lead you into battle. For the Boston Celtics, that player is Kevin Garnett.The 34 year old first team defensive player has lost some of his bite in recent times. But what he has relinquished as leader of the Celtics, Rajon Rondo has taken up and has inspired the team in the same fashion he has learned from none other than Garnett himself.Kevin provides intensity and a scoring option to Boston and having tasted victory two seasons ago, he likes the taste of it and with glory again in sight, it is hard to see the general going down without giving it his all.Paul PiercePierce is the leading offensive player for the Celtics and will be their most reliable source to go two to two with the Laker's shooter, Kobe Bryant.A dangerous player from behind the arc, Pierce is lethal when he is on his game. Expect to see him step up in the finals as he too has the desire to lift that NBA trophy once again before he departs from the game.Ray AllenA player in the mold of a Reggie Miller, an out and out shooter that when he is on, he is unstoppable. Ray's greatest vice is that he appears to be two players with his doppelganger often times turning up in critical games and suppressing the offensive potency of one of the games best natural scorers.He will have to ensure that his better personality or self turn up against the Lakers as his contribution is going to be vital to nullify that of Kobe's offense.Kendrick PerkinsThe Boston center is a bulldozer when needed and that characteristic will be needed against the defending champions. Averaging 10points and 7 rebounds a game, the 6ft 10" center will be needed to block out the likes of Gasol and Bynum under the basket and rebound the ball for point guard Rondo to do his thingRajon RondoQuite possibly the NBA finals MVP, Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
Rondo has lifted the Celtics to where they are today. Competing for the NBA championship. He will be the X factor, the difference in the two teams vying for the title in their 12th match up.The point guard has raised his game to another level in the play-offs and is expected to lead Boston charges to their second title in three years.Gifted with speed, agility and durability, the 6ft 1" guard has posed a quagmire for all his opponents coaches so far in the play-offs. Brown didn't know what to do to contain him against Cleveland and we all know how that went.Not only did they reach the finals but the took perhaps the hardest router to get there. By beating the Miami heat who had won 13 of their last 14 games leading up to the playoffs.Then their was the Cleveland Cavaliers, who have on their roster, the league MVP in Lebron James. Cleveland also held the best record in the league with 61-21. Boston simply ignored that.Then there was the defending conference champions, Orlando Magic who had not lost a game leading up to the start of their conference finals. Surely Boston were in for it. Guess again.Lakers v CelticsBoth teams split their match ups 1-1 in the pre-season with each winning on their home turf. Both possess a strong bench that will be evenly matched come game time starting June 3rd in Los Angeles. Boston has already made history as few teams having finished fourth in their division have been able to make it to the NBA finals.They are the only team to have retained their starting five players since lifting the trophy in 2007/2008. They have the distinction of not having the same player being the leading scorer in every series. A sure conundrum for opposing teams and their coaches as to who do they concentrate on stopping?The Lakers are a bit more one dimensional. Kobe has to have a good night for them to be at their best and win. Gasol is the next best leading scorer and dominates against smaller teams. Small is certainly not a description for the Celtics.Nate Robinson had a break out game against the Magic and with his renewed confidence should play a part in the Celtic's run.He proved he is able to knock em down from behind the arc and so cannot be given too much space to roam. Yet another headache for Fisher and Farmer in a likely match-up.Farmer is a consistent player off the bench along and always proves to be a threat from the three point arc. Lamar Kardashian-Odom is also capable of knocking them down from behind the arc. As always, he will contribute vital points coming off the bench.The player formerly known as Big Baby Davis is capable of having a break out game and has proven so in the series against the Heat. I expect to see him providing much support to Seattle Seahawks jersey
Perkins in containing gasol. Rasheed Wallace as well is capable of hurting teams from behind the arc and under the basket.It is anyone's guess as to who will win but my bet is on the Celtics. They have proven themselves by beating some of the best teams in the NBA and also containing their best players: Wade, James and Howard. Kobe, are you next?They are more defensive, potent on offense and has the depth on the bench. but most importantly, never underestimate the heart of a champion!
50 wins against 32 losses but in the playoffs, they have earned the scalps of the Dwayne Wade's Miami Heat, the King's Cleveland Cavaliers and fittingly last years Eastern Conference champions and NBA finalists, Superman's Orlando Magic.No strangers to competing at the highest level and winning championships, the Boston Celtics were considered the team to beat in the previous season had they not lost the services of key players including the heart of the franchise, Kevin Garnett.Many felt, and I too, that had they been at full strength they would have successfully defended their title. Now that they seem to be stronger than ever, at least, the top four key players, what are their chances to prove the pundits right.Lets take a look at some of the likely key match-ups. I'll begin with an analysis of the Lakers starting players.LOS ANGELES LAKERSKobe BryantKobe is the heart and soul of the Lakers franchise. He has to be counted twice as his importance, consistency and contribution for the Lakers matches that of at least two Boston players. It is true that the Celtics have Paul Pierce but far too often he gets lost in a game and doesn't always deliver every night.The same may be said for Ray Allen as when he is on fire he is red hot but when he is cold, he is 30 below zero cold and out of the game.Doc Rivers is likely to have his best defensive player Kevin Garnett on the sharpshooter from LA with defensive duties rotating between Ray Allen and Tony Allen.Pau GasolAs far as big men are concerned, Pau Gasol is the best power forward playing in the NBA right now. yes, he is that good. His reach, quickness and offensive skills have been lethal for the Lakers and Doc Rivers will have to go to the drawing board to contain him.I expect to see a match up between Kendrick Perkins and Rasheed Wallace on Gasol with Glen Davis providing back-up when needed.Derek FisherFisher provided leadership and a cool head who is willing and able to take those critical shots to turn a game around as well as to win a game. We have seen him do it time and time again.His likely match-up however with the faster, aggressive and hungry Rajon Rondo will leave him breathless for sure. At age 35 plus, he is not only fighting against a player in his prime and peaking but he is battling with father time.Never the less, he is dangerous from the three point line and is a reliable back up to Kobe in leading this Lakers team to another title. He has the experience and the intelligence and knows how to win.Ron Artest"Don't you know who I am? I am Ron Artest." This statement is all too familiar to Kobe Bryant but only now he has the attack dog on his side and not the other way around.An unpredictable player, Artest brings a level of Philadelphia Eagles jersey
aggression to this Lakers team and as he proved in game 5 against the Suns. he too can win matches.A factor from behind the arc, Ron will be a keen match-up for another bad boy, Rasheed Wallace, and this will make for a most interesting match-up on the court.Andrew BynumThe Laker center has been a shadow of himself since returning from injury and appears to have trouble with his mobility and movement under the basket as well as in defense.Andrew Bynum and Lamar Odom however are key players for the Lakers and their contribution will be vital for the defending champions to lift the trophy.BOSTON CELTICSKevin GarnettEvery team has its soul, that player that gets in your face and fire you up and lead you into battle. For the Boston Celtics, that player is Kevin Garnett.The 34 year old first team defensive player has lost some of his bite in recent times. But what he has relinquished as leader of the Celtics, Rajon Rondo has taken up and has inspired the team in the same fashion he has learned from none other than Garnett himself.Kevin provides intensity and a scoring option to Boston and having tasted victory two seasons ago, he likes the taste of it and with glory again in sight, it is hard to see the general going down without giving it his all.Paul PiercePierce is the leading offensive player for the Celtics and will be their most reliable source to go two to two with the Laker's shooter, Kobe Bryant.A dangerous player from behind the arc, Pierce is lethal when he is on his game. Expect to see him step up in the finals as he too has the desire to lift that NBA trophy once again before he departs from the game.Ray AllenA player in the mold of a Reggie Miller, an out and out shooter that when he is on, he is unstoppable. Ray's greatest vice is that he appears to be two players with his doppelganger often times turning up in critical games and suppressing the offensive potency of one of the games best natural scorers.He will have to ensure that his better personality or self turn up against the Lakers as his contribution is going to be vital to nullify that of Kobe's offense.Kendrick PerkinsThe Boston center is a bulldozer when needed and that characteristic will be needed against the defending champions. Averaging 10points and 7 rebounds a game, the 6ft 10" center will be needed to block out the likes of Gasol and Bynum under the basket and rebound the ball for point guard Rondo to do his thingRajon RondoQuite possibly the NBA finals MVP, Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
Rondo has lifted the Celtics to where they are today. Competing for the NBA championship. He will be the X factor, the difference in the two teams vying for the title in their 12th match up.The point guard has raised his game to another level in the play-offs and is expected to lead Boston charges to their second title in three years.Gifted with speed, agility and durability, the 6ft 1" guard has posed a quagmire for all his opponents coaches so far in the play-offs. Brown didn't know what to do to contain him against Cleveland and we all know how that went.Not only did they reach the finals but the took perhaps the hardest router to get there. By beating the Miami heat who had won 13 of their last 14 games leading up to the playoffs.Then their was the Cleveland Cavaliers, who have on their roster, the league MVP in Lebron James. Cleveland also held the best record in the league with 61-21. Boston simply ignored that.Then there was the defending conference champions, Orlando Magic who had not lost a game leading up to the start of their conference finals. Surely Boston were in for it. Guess again.Lakers v CelticsBoth teams split their match ups 1-1 in the pre-season with each winning on their home turf. Both possess a strong bench that will be evenly matched come game time starting June 3rd in Los Angeles. Boston has already made history as few teams having finished fourth in their division have been able to make it to the NBA finals.They are the only team to have retained their starting five players since lifting the trophy in 2007/2008. They have the distinction of not having the same player being the leading scorer in every series. A sure conundrum for opposing teams and their coaches as to who do they concentrate on stopping?The Lakers are a bit more one dimensional. Kobe has to have a good night for them to be at their best and win. Gasol is the next best leading scorer and dominates against smaller teams. Small is certainly not a description for the Celtics.Nate Robinson had a break out game against the Magic and with his renewed confidence should play a part in the Celtic's run.He proved he is able to knock em down from behind the arc and so cannot be given too much space to roam. Yet another headache for Fisher and Farmer in a likely match-up.Farmer is a consistent player off the bench along and always proves to be a threat from the three point arc. Lamar Kardashian-Odom is also capable of knocking them down from behind the arc. As always, he will contribute vital points coming off the bench.The player formerly known as Big Baby Davis is capable of having a break out game and has proven so in the series against the Heat. I expect to see him providing much support to Seattle Seahawks jersey
Perkins in containing gasol. Rasheed Wallace as well is capable of hurting teams from behind the arc and under the basket.It is anyone's guess as to who will win but my bet is on the Celtics. They have proven themselves by beating some of the best teams in the NBA and also containing their best players: Wade, James and Howard. Kobe, are you next?They are more defensive, potent on offense and has the depth on the bench. but most importantly, never underestimate the heart of a champion!
25 Dec 10 The Wait For 2011: Will Help Ever Come For Danny Granger?
Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesFor the 27 year old Danny Granger, its yet another year wasted in his prime. The lone All Star of the Indiana Pacers has been waiting for GM Larry Bird provide him with some kind of aid ever since he became the face of the franchise.Granger is only two years removed from being selected to the Detroit Lions
NBA All Star team and even though last season was a struggle he still averaged 24 points a game.Granger however has been stuck within a situation in Indiana that has been in total chaos since the battle at the Palace. With contract situations like Jermaine O'Neal's, Stephen Jackson's, Ron Artest's, and Jamaal Tinsley's, Bird has been relatively incapable of making any moves in the off-season.Granger has been playing along side T.J. Ford, Mike Dunleavy, Jeff Foster, Josh McRoberts, Soloman Jones, and Troy Murphey all of whom's contracts end at the end of next season.Granger has been the only bright spot for a Pacers team that features an Up-Tempo offense that you would think should flourish with speedy guard Ford at the helm plus Murphy and Dunleavy running along side.Ford however doesn't get along with head coach Jim O'Brien while Dunleavy and Murphy are just talent teases, players who fill up stat sheets but do so inefficiently and have never been winners.However the Pacers do have a solid running mate for Granger in former Green Bay Packers jersey
Georgetown center Roy Hibbert who has made legitimate strides since he entered the league.Also, Brandon Rush has proved to be a decent role player off the bench and former National Player of the Year and North Carolina Tar Heel Tyler Hansbrough has a lot of upside if he returns from last seasons leg injury.Also the Pacers made some wise decisions in the draft after signing Paul George and the second round steal in Lance Stephenson.George is a prototypical clone of Granger's skill set and Stephenson is young and rare but extremely talented. Both players show a lot of Houston Texans jersey
upside for the future if they're developed properly.Other than that however the Pacers must wait patiently and hope that their only All-Star does not get disgruntled to the point that he wants to be traded.This all rides on Granger's patience and confidence in GM Larry Bird because until next summer he's all indiana's got.
NBA All Star team and even though last season was a struggle he still averaged 24 points a game.Granger however has been stuck within a situation in Indiana that has been in total chaos since the battle at the Palace. With contract situations like Jermaine O'Neal's, Stephen Jackson's, Ron Artest's, and Jamaal Tinsley's, Bird has been relatively incapable of making any moves in the off-season.Granger has been playing along side T.J. Ford, Mike Dunleavy, Jeff Foster, Josh McRoberts, Soloman Jones, and Troy Murphey all of whom's contracts end at the end of next season.Granger has been the only bright spot for a Pacers team that features an Up-Tempo offense that you would think should flourish with speedy guard Ford at the helm plus Murphy and Dunleavy running along side.Ford however doesn't get along with head coach Jim O'Brien while Dunleavy and Murphy are just talent teases, players who fill up stat sheets but do so inefficiently and have never been winners.However the Pacers do have a solid running mate for Granger in former Green Bay Packers jersey
Georgetown center Roy Hibbert who has made legitimate strides since he entered the league.Also, Brandon Rush has proved to be a decent role player off the bench and former National Player of the Year and North Carolina Tar Heel Tyler Hansbrough has a lot of upside if he returns from last seasons leg injury.Also the Pacers made some wise decisions in the draft after signing Paul George and the second round steal in Lance Stephenson.George is a prototypical clone of Granger's skill set and Stephenson is young and rare but extremely talented. Both players show a lot of Houston Texans jersey
upside for the future if they're developed properly.Other than that however the Pacers must wait patiently and hope that their only All-Star does not get disgruntled to the point that he wants to be traded.This all rides on Granger's patience and confidence in GM Larry Bird because until next summer he's all indiana's got.
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 Phoenix Suns Begin Life After Amar'e Stoudemire
Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesSlowly, the foundation of a strong, competitive Phoenix Suns team is crumbling.That's nothing new to both the casual fan and pundit alike. What may be difficult to understand is the transition. From a franchise-tying mark of 62-20 in the 2004-05 season, the Suns' attempt to hang on as one of the NBA's elite franchises, but are clearly missing key components.When Amar'e Stoudemire bolted the desert for Madison Square Garden and the lights of Broadway, that represented a kind of death knell. Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
The center of the Suns' offense and defense was gone, and created a crater which could now be an abyss. Only Steve Nash remains from the glory years in the mid-2000s when the Suns, and their fans thought, they were on the verge of an NBA title.Now, the remake.Coach Alvin Gentry is left to play "small ball," and the Suns will likely survive on their ability to score from the perimeter. With no real power inside, teams will go to a trapping defense, and an attempt to slow down Nash and raise a fortress around the arc."Right now, we need to figure out our roles," forward Channing Frye told the local Phoenix NBC afflilate. "We need to know our niche."That may not be as impossible of it sounds. If the plan on paper is executed, the Suns will go with 6'10" Hedo Turkoglo, who came over from Toronto, in an attempt to shore up the middle. Turkoglo is not a traditional center and feels more comfortable at the forward slot. He can play both big and small forward and is coming off an 11.8 ppg season with the Raptors.While Stoudemire averaged 23.1 ppg last season and grabbed anaverage of 8.9 rpg, those numbers will not be easily replaced. With Toronto a year ago, Turkoglu averaged only 4.6 rpg, and Robin Lopez, the projected center, averaged 4.9 rpg. Lopez Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
appeared in only 51 games because of injury, and his presence in the playoffs was felt.Still, the key to the Suns offense lays with Nash, a 14-year veteran, and clearly the catylst. At 36 years old, the Canadian native has never average 20 ppg in any season, but saves his best for last. In postseason play, Nash averaged 23.9 ppg in the 2005 playoffs, and averaged 20.4 ppg in the 2006 postseason.This time, Nash is ready to assume the leadership role again."I love the players on this team, and we're prepared to do it together," he told the local FOX affiliate. "I know this team is ready to grow beyond an average NBA team, and take the franchise to another level."Nash should get help from a pair of bombers. Jason Richardson, 6'6" out of Michigan State, averaged 15.7 ppg last season, but buried 157 threes. Frye (11.2 ppgs) added 98 treys and should complement Richardson from beyond the arc.It's likely the Suns will survive on the acumen of Nash and some long-range bombing. For the team to be successful, theReebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
defense needs to limit the 100-plus points game from opponents, and run well in transition. Without any power in the middle, the Suns will likely live-and-die on how well they run the court, and take advantage of getting points in transition.
The center of the Suns' offense and defense was gone, and created a crater which could now be an abyss. Only Steve Nash remains from the glory years in the mid-2000s when the Suns, and their fans thought, they were on the verge of an NBA title.Now, the remake.Coach Alvin Gentry is left to play "small ball," and the Suns will likely survive on their ability to score from the perimeter. With no real power inside, teams will go to a trapping defense, and an attempt to slow down Nash and raise a fortress around the arc."Right now, we need to figure out our roles," forward Channing Frye told the local Phoenix NBC afflilate. "We need to know our niche."That may not be as impossible of it sounds. If the plan on paper is executed, the Suns will go with 6'10" Hedo Turkoglo, who came over from Toronto, in an attempt to shore up the middle. Turkoglo is not a traditional center and feels more comfortable at the forward slot. He can play both big and small forward and is coming off an 11.8 ppg season with the Raptors.While Stoudemire averaged 23.1 ppg last season and grabbed anaverage of 8.9 rpg, those numbers will not be easily replaced. With Toronto a year ago, Turkoglu averaged only 4.6 rpg, and Robin Lopez, the projected center, averaged 4.9 rpg. Lopez Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
appeared in only 51 games because of injury, and his presence in the playoffs was felt.Still, the key to the Suns offense lays with Nash, a 14-year veteran, and clearly the catylst. At 36 years old, the Canadian native has never average 20 ppg in any season, but saves his best for last. In postseason play, Nash averaged 23.9 ppg in the 2005 playoffs, and averaged 20.4 ppg in the 2006 postseason.This time, Nash is ready to assume the leadership role again."I love the players on this team, and we're prepared to do it together," he told the local FOX affiliate. "I know this team is ready to grow beyond an average NBA team, and take the franchise to another level."Nash should get help from a pair of bombers. Jason Richardson, 6'6" out of Michigan State, averaged 15.7 ppg last season, but buried 157 threes. Frye (11.2 ppgs) added 98 treys and should complement Richardson from beyond the arc.It's likely the Suns will survive on the acumen of Nash and some long-range bombing. For the team to be successful, theReebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
defense needs to limit the 100-plus points game from opponents, and run well in transition. Without any power in the middle, the Suns will likely live-and-die on how well they run the court, and take advantage of getting points in transition.
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