Stink: ('sti[ng]k), transitive verb, noun. 1. To emit a strong offensive odor. 2. The St. Louis Rams' run defense.With the beginning of free agency just around the corner, the Rams need to open their minds and wallets to the possibilities; namely, the possibilities of shoring up a run defense that would have to monumentally improve just to be considered "pathetic."Naturally, bolstering a rushing 'D' that finished next to last in the league is of paramount importance; yet, nearly as crucial is finding defensive linemen who can pressure the quarterback. Other than Leonard Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
Little, the Rams' linemen were able to generate very little heat on opposing QBs, forcing defensive coordinator Jim Haslett to blitz simply to hurry the passer.If the Rams can play "honest" by relying on their front four to harass the QB it will improve the secondary immeasurably, while also giving Haslett the ability to send extra blitzers only when he wants to, not because he must, lest the opposition have an eternity to throw (a common occurrence last season).The Rams appear unwilling to pay wideout Kevin Curtis the big bucks, making his departure almost a certainty. This allows the Rams' sufficient cap room to snag at least one high-profile free agent. Make no mistake, the Rams need to spend all of their free agent dollars (as well as a majority of their draft picks) on defense and not give in to the previous administration's penchant for adding offensive "toys" (a la Mike "we need defensive help, but Trung Canidate is still on the board!" Martz).There are a few free agents available whom the Rams should take a long look at, as well as a few who are worth considering:Charles Grant: DE, New Orleans SaintsPros: - Adept at stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback- Durable- In his primeCons:- Has the body of a DT, quick but not fast - Will come with a hefty price tagGrant would be a perfect fit to play the end spot opposite Little. He is familiar with the Rams' defensive scheme having already played under Haslett in New Orleans. Grant would force the opposition to respect the Rams' pass rush, effectively allowing blockers Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
to pick their poison by only being able to double-team one DE. It can be argued that the Rams should be more concerned with acquiring run-stuffing tackles, but a dual threat like Grant would be a huge step in the right direction.London Fletcher-Baker: MLB, Buffalo BillsPros:- Familiar with Rams organization- Maximum effort player- True MLBCons:- He's on the wrong side of 30- Undersized- Questionable coverage skillsFletcher-Baker is short, maybe 5-foot-10 when he's wearing his elevator cleats, but he's well known for giving his team maximum effort. Reacquiring Fletcher-Baker -- who was in St. Louis between 1998-2001 -- would give the Rams a true MLB, allowing Will Witherspoon to slide over to his more natural OLB spot. Adding Fletcher-Baker to the tandem of Pisa Tinoisamoa and Witherspoon would give the Rams three 100-tackle per year linebackers, making the defense incredibly potent at the LB position.However, Fletcher-Baker's coverage skills are a question mark. Many fans will remember his disappearance in coverage against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVI (most notably the final drive), but he has proven to be more steadfast in Buffalo. The MLB's only drawback is that he may demand more money than his ability (and age, he'll be 32 next season) should realistically command. However, if his asking price is reasonable, he could be a very productive addition for the next several years.Lance Briggs: OLB, Chicago BearsPros: - Integral part of a Super Bowl defense- Versatile, can play the run or pass- Just entering his primeCons:- Lacks true sideline to sideline range- Won't come cheapBriggs is another hard hitting, sure tackling player who can bring 100-plus tackles to a defense. Although the Rams may opt toReebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
keep Brandon Chillar, a player of Briggs' caliber would be a welcome upgrade. The 26-year-old Briggs is just hitting his stride as a player and if the Rams are sincere about keeping Witherspoon at the MLB spot, then Briggs could be their most surefire bet, although it will cost them.Also worth considering:Patrick Kerney: DE, Atlanta FalconsIan Scott: DT, Chicago BearsJustin Smith: DE, Cincinnati BengalsRandy Starks: DT, Tennessee TitansAlvin McKinley: DE/DT, Cleveland Browns**You can e-mail Steve Reynolds at sreynolds (10)
2011年1月13日星期四
14 Jan 11 Seattle Seahawks "At home, Seahawks have Redskins right where they want them"
The Seattle Seahawks have the Washington Redskins right where they want them -- at Qwest Field.Sure, the Seahawks lost two of the last three games -- embarrassing three-point defeats at Carolina and at Atlanta. But the Seahawks were quick to dismiss both, particularly the 44-41 debacle against the FalconsReebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
last week in which the defense blew a chance to set a franchise record for fewest points allowed in a season.Those games didn't matter, which probably explains why Seattle played like it. But as they prepare to play in the postseason for the fifth straight year, the Seahawks know the game against the Redskins on Saturday means a whole lot more. And they are surely happy to be playing it at Qwest Field, where they were 7-1 this season and have a three-game home winning streak in the playoffs over the past two years.Aside from a hiccup against the then-winless New Orleans Saints in Week 5, the Seahawks dominated at home this season. They outscored their seven victims 200-83, an average margin of 29-12.Granted, only one of those teams made the playoffs -- Tampa Bay, which the Seahawks punished 20-6 in the Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
season opener. But the Seahawks blew out most of the others in a way that left no doubt that they play their best at Qwest Field.The Seahawks also showed they could win close games at home, beating Cincinnati 24-21 and Chicago 30-23. That is the kind of game Seattle can expect against the streaking, improving Redskins.The Redskins have won four straight games and are riding an emotional wave as they play in honor of their murdered teammate, Sean Taylor. So the Seahawks will have to overcome that sentimental incentive and try to do what they did to Washington in 2005, when Seattle overcame the early injury of NFL MVP Shaun Alexander to beat the Redskins 20-10.The Seahawks then knocked off Carolina in the NFC title game that season, and they escaped with a win against Dallas last January, giving Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
them a three-game home winning streak in the playoffs. That's what Washington is up against. Sure, the Seahawks haven't played a meaningful game in three weeks, but they will be playing for something Saturday, and they have the Redskins right where they want them -- at Qwest Field.
last week in which the defense blew a chance to set a franchise record for fewest points allowed in a season.Those games didn't matter, which probably explains why Seattle played like it. But as they prepare to play in the postseason for the fifth straight year, the Seahawks know the game against the Redskins on Saturday means a whole lot more. And they are surely happy to be playing it at Qwest Field, where they were 7-1 this season and have a three-game home winning streak in the playoffs over the past two years.Aside from a hiccup against the then-winless New Orleans Saints in Week 5, the Seahawks dominated at home this season. They outscored their seven victims 200-83, an average margin of 29-12.Granted, only one of those teams made the playoffs -- Tampa Bay, which the Seahawks punished 20-6 in the Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
season opener. But the Seahawks blew out most of the others in a way that left no doubt that they play their best at Qwest Field.The Seahawks also showed they could win close games at home, beating Cincinnati 24-21 and Chicago 30-23. That is the kind of game Seattle can expect against the streaking, improving Redskins.The Redskins have won four straight games and are riding an emotional wave as they play in honor of their murdered teammate, Sean Taylor. So the Seahawks will have to overcome that sentimental incentive and try to do what they did to Washington in 2005, when Seattle overcame the early injury of NFL MVP Shaun Alexander to beat the Redskins 20-10.The Seahawks then knocked off Carolina in the NFC title game that season, and they escaped with a win against Dallas last January, giving Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
them a three-game home winning streak in the playoffs. That's what Washington is up against. Sure, the Seahawks haven't played a meaningful game in three weeks, but they will be playing for something Saturday, and they have the Redskins right where they want them -- at Qwest Field.
2011年1月12日星期三
13 Jan 11 Patty Mills Sent Back to NBDL
Streeter Lecka/Getty ImagesHere's a link with info and here's the release from the Trail Blazers: TRAIL BLAZERS REASSIGN PATTY MILLS TO NBA D-LEAGUE'S IDAHO STAMPEDE PORTLAND, Ore. - The Portland Trail Blazers reassigned guard Patty Mills to the NBA Development League's Idaho Stampede, it was announced today by General Manager Kevin Pritchard.Mills appeared in one game for the Trail Blazers, recording two assists in five minutes Jan. 4 at the L.A. Clippers.In two games during his first stint with the Stampede from Jan. 1-3Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
, Mills posted averages of 30.0 points (21-37 FG, 11-15 3-PT) and 7.5 assists in 34.0 minutes off the bench.Mills, selected by the Trail Blazers with the 55th overall pick in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft, will join the Stampede for Friday's game vs. Reno.
, Mills posted averages of 30.0 points (21-37 FG, 11-15 3-PT) and 7.5 assists in 34.0 minutes off the bench.Mills, selected by the Trail Blazers with the 55th overall pick in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft, will join the Stampede for Friday's game vs. Reno.
12 Jan 11 76ers: An Internal Debate—Should I Root for My Team To Lose?
Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesThe practice of rooting against your favorite team is a bold and conflicting decision. It goes against everything you believe in. It negates countless hours of intense devotion. But, remember, the goal is to win a championship.I admit to a certain infatuation with ESPN's NBA Lottery Mock Draft. It is so great. Looking to spend (not waste) time wrapping your brain around 2,184 different draft scenarios? Pow! According to this handy invention, the 76ers possess an 8.8 percent chance of receiving a championship ring marked four yearsOakland Raiders jersey
from now (whoops, I mean John Wall).Each time that mighty make-believe ping-pong ball shows up with the Sixers logo, I'm thrilled. If an iPhone app was made to this mock lottery extent, I would not only purchase it, but waste my battery at every opportunity.Sad? Yesbut that is what Sixers fans are now relegated to.At their current state the Sixers sit at a healthy 15-30, 7.5 games out of a playoff spot. An incompetent head coach sits on the bench each night, sending in a semi-talented but identity-less team. Basically, they are in shambles.Furthermore, the Sixers have lost 14 games this year by six points or less, many of which they led for a majority of the game. 14! From this I can conclude that while they still do suck, they are not eons away from competing.As constructed with fewer injuries and possibly a different head coach, the Sixers may be one of the last teams to sneak into the Eastern Conference playoffs. Wow, congrats. They would be promptly beat, just like the last two seasons. This accomplishes nothing, except a mid-teens draft pick. Philadelphia Eagles jersey
Admittedly, the Sixers have done a great job with these picks the last few years. However, it is easy to see you must have a superstar high-lottery guy if championships are your objective.This season may present the perfect opportunity.So, I am taking a stand. I want that statistic I stated above, concerning close losses, to grow and grow. Why? I want John Wall. Too greedy? Then maybe Derrick Favors, Cole Aldrich, or Evan Turner. Please, just give me a superstar.This stance is not breaking any fan codes. I have good intentions, but there comes a point where things have to change, and this is my solution.Yes, it will be tough watching the attendance dwindle (if that is possible). It will be hard watching young players like Mo Speights, Thad Young, and Jrue Holiday suffer through the worst season of their lives, but it will be worth it for them and for us fans.Notes from last night's Sixers vs. Bucks game What the hell is with the horns? Forgive me for being unaware of this situation, but it sounded like an international soccer match inside the Bradley Center. Initially, I thought I was watching re-runs of the Confederations Cup from this past summer.Seriously, the ambiance of obnoxious horn-blowing may fit in a "world's game" atmosphere, but not in an NBA game in January. Clowns would be envious. SomeonePittsburgh Steelers jersey
inform me if this is legal. Sorry for dedicating so much to this, but it was amazing to me.Rodney Carney is indeed too athletic for his own good. He never plays under control, and seemingly will never become a good part of an NBA rotation.Brandon Jennings is good.Eddie Jordan is now an astounding 45-for-45 in games this year for having horrible substitution patterns.Tonight's NBA BetRaptors +3.5 at Knicks
from now (whoops, I mean John Wall).Each time that mighty make-believe ping-pong ball shows up with the Sixers logo, I'm thrilled. If an iPhone app was made to this mock lottery extent, I would not only purchase it, but waste my battery at every opportunity.Sad? Yesbut that is what Sixers fans are now relegated to.At their current state the Sixers sit at a healthy 15-30, 7.5 games out of a playoff spot. An incompetent head coach sits on the bench each night, sending in a semi-talented but identity-less team. Basically, they are in shambles.Furthermore, the Sixers have lost 14 games this year by six points or less, many of which they led for a majority of the game. 14! From this I can conclude that while they still do suck, they are not eons away from competing.As constructed with fewer injuries and possibly a different head coach, the Sixers may be one of the last teams to sneak into the Eastern Conference playoffs. Wow, congrats. They would be promptly beat, just like the last two seasons. This accomplishes nothing, except a mid-teens draft pick. Philadelphia Eagles jersey
Admittedly, the Sixers have done a great job with these picks the last few years. However, it is easy to see you must have a superstar high-lottery guy if championships are your objective.This season may present the perfect opportunity.So, I am taking a stand. I want that statistic I stated above, concerning close losses, to grow and grow. Why? I want John Wall. Too greedy? Then maybe Derrick Favors, Cole Aldrich, or Evan Turner. Please, just give me a superstar.This stance is not breaking any fan codes. I have good intentions, but there comes a point where things have to change, and this is my solution.Yes, it will be tough watching the attendance dwindle (if that is possible). It will be hard watching young players like Mo Speights, Thad Young, and Jrue Holiday suffer through the worst season of their lives, but it will be worth it for them and for us fans.Notes from last night's Sixers vs. Bucks game What the hell is with the horns? Forgive me for being unaware of this situation, but it sounded like an international soccer match inside the Bradley Center. Initially, I thought I was watching re-runs of the Confederations Cup from this past summer.Seriously, the ambiance of obnoxious horn-blowing may fit in a "world's game" atmosphere, but not in an NBA game in January. Clowns would be envious. SomeonePittsburgh Steelers jersey
inform me if this is legal. Sorry for dedicating so much to this, but it was amazing to me.Rodney Carney is indeed too athletic for his own good. He never plays under control, and seemingly will never become a good part of an NBA rotation.Brandon Jennings is good.Eddie Jordan is now an astounding 45-for-45 in games this year for having horrible substitution patterns.Tonight's NBA BetRaptors +3.5 at Knicks
2011年1月10日星期一
10 Jan 11 A Mile Higher: The Denver Nuggets Are the NBA's No. 1 Team
Sure, you might never hear it from the mainstream media on ESPN or TNT, but here on our more freethinking site, we dare to be bold.In following that trend I will be a trendsetter and proclaim the Denver Nuggets are the NBA’s best team.I know, you’re saying, “But Rich, the Nuggets don’t even have the second or third best record in the NBA right now.” I understand that, but it’s about how Denver (36-18) has performed against those teams ahead of it in the standings.The Nuggets are unbeaten against the Cavaliers (2-0), the Magic (1-0) and the world champion Los Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
Angeles Lakers (2-0). Not only has Denver beaten those teams, it has done so decisively, at an average margin of victory of 12.2 points per game.Although Denver bested Cleveland by just two points each time, this win was as Carmelo Anthony called on Twitter, an “Instant classic game tonite.”The Nuggets and Cavaliers battled from the opening tip, and Denver was dominant in the first half, growing its lead to 13 points at one time. Melo and LeBron were quiet during the first 24 minutes, scoring only 18 points combined to sink just four of 20 shots.The second half was the superstar show though, as Anthony excelled and LeBron’s play was ludicrous.James dunked and slashed to the hoop as only he can, but his jump shot was off all night despite scoring 43 total points. That was just the beginning of filling up the stat line for LeBron though, as he recorded 13 rebounds and 15 assists as well, the first time anyone had done so since “Pistol” Pete Marovich in 1974 with the New Orleans Jazz.While Anthony was not as explosive as LeBron, Melo was just that, smooth. His spin move on LeBron was spectacular, and could have gotten an and-one on Anderson Varejao. In the end, Carmelo’s jumper couldn’t be stopped by James as Melo sank the game winning 20-footer in LeBron’s face with 1.9 seconds left.In the end, it took another MVP-like performance from Melo, 40 points, six assists and seven rebounds, but Denver proved once again that it can beat the Cavaliers.Denver has been dominant against Cleveland, winning five of its last seven and going 10-4 since Carmelo Anthony was drafted by the Nuggets in 2003. Plus, Denver snapped the Cavs 13-game winning streak, which had many calling Cleveland the best in the NBA.Chauncey Billups on Twitter said about the game, “And they said we couldnt [sic] do it… If you Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
minds aint changed yet, we’ll be to a city near you to change it.”The Nuggets aren’t only good against the teams ahead of them, they are 6-3 versus the next three best in the West. Against Utah (3-1), San Antonio (2-1), and Dallas (1-1) the Nuggets have played with a focus on beating the best teams in order to be the best.Overall, the Nuggets are 13-4 in their last 17 games, and have really hit their stride since the calendar has turned over to 2010 (16-6).Backup shooting guard J.R. Smith told the Denver Post's?Benjamin Hochman, “We (feel) we should be the champs at the end. We feel that way mentally, we just have to go on the court and do it physically.” Starting two-guard Arron Afflalo added on Twitter, “Ima [sic] keep putting that work in for yall so we can have that special season."So, even though Denver has just triumphantly dethroned King James in Cleveland, it is keeping its focus on being a better team, having better players game-in, game-out.Now, with the Lakers losing sans Kobe 87-86 at home to Boston Thursday, the Nuggets move to within five games of LA for the No. 1 spot in the West. Plus, Denver has played two fewer games overall, and three fewer at home than the Lakers, meaning catching L.A. is a definite possibility.For Denver, records shouldn’t matter at this point because it has already proven it can beat anyone higher, or lower, in the standings. (Those losses to sub-.500 teams won't affect the Nuggets in the playoffs.)The Nuggets biggest challenge may be when head coach George Karl is forced to miss games, and possibly weeks, following his treatment for throat and neck cancer.Then again, this squad is different. Chauncey Billups holds this versatile group together, and Carmelo Anthony is a legit MVP candidate.After losing to the Lakers in the 2009 Western Conference Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
Finals, including two probable wins thrown away with two errant inbounds passes, the Nuggets are hungrier and cockier, but also wiser.As Melo told the Post following the win, "An NBA championship is what we want. Right now, at this moment—especially after coming off last year—I feel real confident about that goal."Follow Rich on Twitter and on Facebook to read all his articles!
Angeles Lakers (2-0). Not only has Denver beaten those teams, it has done so decisively, at an average margin of victory of 12.2 points per game.Although Denver bested Cleveland by just two points each time, this win was as Carmelo Anthony called on Twitter, an “Instant classic game tonite.”The Nuggets and Cavaliers battled from the opening tip, and Denver was dominant in the first half, growing its lead to 13 points at one time. Melo and LeBron were quiet during the first 24 minutes, scoring only 18 points combined to sink just four of 20 shots.The second half was the superstar show though, as Anthony excelled and LeBron’s play was ludicrous.James dunked and slashed to the hoop as only he can, but his jump shot was off all night despite scoring 43 total points. That was just the beginning of filling up the stat line for LeBron though, as he recorded 13 rebounds and 15 assists as well, the first time anyone had done so since “Pistol” Pete Marovich in 1974 with the New Orleans Jazz.While Anthony was not as explosive as LeBron, Melo was just that, smooth. His spin move on LeBron was spectacular, and could have gotten an and-one on Anderson Varejao. In the end, Carmelo’s jumper couldn’t be stopped by James as Melo sank the game winning 20-footer in LeBron’s face with 1.9 seconds left.In the end, it took another MVP-like performance from Melo, 40 points, six assists and seven rebounds, but Denver proved once again that it can beat the Cavaliers.Denver has been dominant against Cleveland, winning five of its last seven and going 10-4 since Carmelo Anthony was drafted by the Nuggets in 2003. Plus, Denver snapped the Cavs 13-game winning streak, which had many calling Cleveland the best in the NBA.Chauncey Billups on Twitter said about the game, “And they said we couldnt [sic] do it… If you Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
minds aint changed yet, we’ll be to a city near you to change it.”The Nuggets aren’t only good against the teams ahead of them, they are 6-3 versus the next three best in the West. Against Utah (3-1), San Antonio (2-1), and Dallas (1-1) the Nuggets have played with a focus on beating the best teams in order to be the best.Overall, the Nuggets are 13-4 in their last 17 games, and have really hit their stride since the calendar has turned over to 2010 (16-6).Backup shooting guard J.R. Smith told the Denver Post's?Benjamin Hochman, “We (feel) we should be the champs at the end. We feel that way mentally, we just have to go on the court and do it physically.” Starting two-guard Arron Afflalo added on Twitter, “Ima [sic] keep putting that work in for yall so we can have that special season."So, even though Denver has just triumphantly dethroned King James in Cleveland, it is keeping its focus on being a better team, having better players game-in, game-out.Now, with the Lakers losing sans Kobe 87-86 at home to Boston Thursday, the Nuggets move to within five games of LA for the No. 1 spot in the West. Plus, Denver has played two fewer games overall, and three fewer at home than the Lakers, meaning catching L.A. is a definite possibility.For Denver, records shouldn’t matter at this point because it has already proven it can beat anyone higher, or lower, in the standings. (Those losses to sub-.500 teams won't affect the Nuggets in the playoffs.)The Nuggets biggest challenge may be when head coach George Karl is forced to miss games, and possibly weeks, following his treatment for throat and neck cancer.Then again, this squad is different. Chauncey Billups holds this versatile group together, and Carmelo Anthony is a legit MVP candidate.After losing to the Lakers in the 2009 Western Conference Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
Finals, including two probable wins thrown away with two errant inbounds passes, the Nuggets are hungrier and cockier, but also wiser.As Melo told the Post following the win, "An NBA championship is what we want. Right now, at this moment—especially after coming off last year—I feel real confident about that goal."Follow Rich on Twitter and on Facebook to read all his articles!
2011年1月9日星期日
9 Jan 11 NBA Mini-Roundtable: 10 Questions for the Future
Elsa/Getty ImagesWith the NBA playoffs about two months away, what better time than now to start asking questions about what is to come in the immediate future as well as a little bit further down the road?Here's a two-person discussion (between Gregg Ring and Taylor Smith) about 10 NBA-related topics.1. Is Atlanta a legitimate threat to Orlando and Cleveland in the East?GR: The short answer to the first is yes. The Hawks are a young, athletic team that has the ability to beat anyone in the league. The real question is: Can the Hawks keep it together for a seven game series? The answer to that question may be no. The true veteran leader of the Hawks is Joe Johnson, who has enjoyed minimal playoff success thoughout his career and may not be able to handle the pressure of a game seven in a hostile Dallas Cowboys jersey
environment. The Hawks have the ability but may lack the leadership to beat the Magic or Cavs.TS: No, I don think so. Theyre certainly capable of making some noise and causing some problems, but I don think theyll ultimately have enough to actually dethrone either of them. Their roster is extremely talented, but I think their lack of much depth off the bench will hurt them in the playoffs if theyre matched up with Cleveland or Orlando. Each of those teams is more deep and more versatile, and I don think the Hawks would have enough to beat either of them in a long series. 2. Does anybody not named LeBron James have a chance to win MVP ?GR: Kevin Durant certainly has a chance to make a last stab at winning theMVPtrophy, but it will take nothing short of a miracle. For KD to have a chance to win, the Thunder will have to put together a nice run to close out the season and position themselves as a legit threat in the Western Conference playoffs. Along with the Thunder success, the Cavs will almost certainly have to stumble to the finish line for LeBron to fall out of favor withMVPvoters. Is it possible? Yes. Will it happen? Doubtful.TS: No, not really. Kevin Durant is making a nice push, but this is LeBron to lose, and there no way he loses it. He got his Cavs at the top of the East, and it doesn look as though theyll be relinquishing that in the regular season. KD has been amazing in helping get the Thunder to where they are now, but LeBron numbers are completely staggering. I could see him one day becoming just the second player in league history to lead the league in both scoring and assists. LeBron is theMVPthis season. 3. Will the possible re-emergence of teams like the Bulls and Knicks (through free agency) help shift the power of the league back East?GR: The upcoming free agent class certainly has the potential to shift the power structure of theNBA. It seems the daily rumors with regards to the top free agents all seem to have these players going to Eastern Conference teams. The reasoning for this is simple: The eastern conference teams are currently inferior, and therefore more willing to shed salary and players, sinking them further into mediocrity and allowing themselves more money for free agent spending. If LeBron, Bosh, Amar, Boozer, Wade, and Joe Johnson all end up Denver Broncos jersey
in the Eastern Conference, the power will certainly begin to shift in that direction. While the west will remain strong, the addition of two or three more All-Stars could change the east's fortune.TS: It definitely could, it just depends on who goes where and how everything eventually fits together. If you look at it, the only real notable free agents from the West are Carlos Boozer and Amar Stoudemire. If they join the other top-tier guys out East, it clearly could change the landscape of the league. However, the way it is today, the top four teams in the East might stack up better than the top four teams in the West. The real discrepancy is at the bottom of the conferences. Teams like Chicago and New York adding top free- agent talent would certainly help even things out a bit. 4. If they don make the Finals, will this summer bring on major change in Boston?GR: If Boston again falls short of the Finals there is no doubt some changes are coming. First off, Ray Allen will not be returning unless it is at a very steep discount. Rasheed Wallace has largely been a disappointment and will be traded or perhaps released. Garnett and Pierce are beginning to show their age, and the Celtics may try and make a last-ditch effort to move one or both of them in order to recoup any value possible. In other words, yes, it is very likely the Celtics will be a shell of their current team next season.TS: I don know how much flexibility they have with their contracts, but their only major free agent is Ray Allen. While he started off the season poorly, he really coming on strong, and the Celtics look like a much better team with him playing like were used to seeing him. I don know what better option they would have, so Im not sure that they wouldn just re-sign him for a lesser contract this summer. Either way, I can imagine the Celtics having enough flexibility with their salaries to be able to shake things up too much. 5. Will signing LeBron and Wade/Bosh actually make the Knicks elite? Or will there be too little money left to assemble a good enough supporting cast?GR: This is the big question for the Knicks in the offseason. The Knicks have about $18 million committed for next year, mostly to players who have little impact on the team. Their current best player, David Lee, will be a free agent and given his outstanding season, could command too high a salary to re-sign. With the predicted cap being around $51 million, that simply does not leave enough room after giving LeBron a max deal, then giving Wade/Bosh close to max deals to sign anyone real worthwhile. This massive salary/talent dump could end costing the Knicks more than they asked for, given that LeBron and Bosh probably can play all five positions on the floor.TS: As LeBron has shown in the past, he capable of making a team solid despite a dearth ofDetroit Lions
talent. Just look at the 2007 Cavs team he was able to get all the way to the Finals. Larry Hughes was the second-best player on that team, and he was somewhat of a disappointment for them (Larry Hughes? A disappointment? What??). Now, James is even better than he was back then, and pairing him with another superstar should make for a good enough team. Plus, if the Knicks are able to pair LeBron with another star, I think more players are going to want to join the team for less money. Why wouldn you want to? I think itll be plenty to make them into contenders. 6. Do the Clippers have a legitimate chance to land LeBron or another big name free agent?GR: If the Clippers are willing, they have a chance to add a big name over the summer. They are in the nation second largest media market and offer the allure of the Hollywood lifestyle. The Clippers can also offer the chance to the egotistical superstar of trying to make the Clippers LA team. Although accomplishing this task may be next to impossible, it may not be above LeBron to try. The Clippers do also have a solid supporting cast with Baron Davis, Chris Kaman, and 2009 first-overall pick Blake Griffin. The Clippers do have a shot to sign a top free agent, but in the end they probably will not.TS: I really think they do, despite the whole worst franchise in pro sports thing. Los Angeles is an attractive location, and the Clips have a solid core of young talent in place with Kaman, Griffin (hopefully), Gordon, and Davis. I can definitely see why somebody would want to play there. Will they? Im not so sure, but I think they definitely at least have a chance. 7. Will the Mavericks be a factor in free agency this summer?GR: The Mavs will not be a factor in free agency. They have a lot of money committed to their core players and their main focus this summer will be trying to lock up Dirk for the remainder of his career. Cuban is satisfied with the team he has assembled and will continue to try and win with his current players, although I don't think a team built around Dirk will ever win a title.TS: It possible. Dallas is a desirable place, and Mark Cuban/Donnie Nelson have some flexibility with their contracts. Erick Dampier contract says he can be cut anytime before the beginning of next season, which would free up just over $13 million. Caron Butler also has a $10 million expiring contract, which can be dangled in front of other teams as sign-and-trade possibilities. I don think theyre going to be able to land any of the big-time guys, but they do have room to try. 8. Are the Spurs done contending for championships with their current core?GR: The Spurs certainly do seem like they might be ready to ride off into the sunset. Tim Duncan is showing signs of aging and Parker has not been his usual self due to an array of injuries this season. The acquisition of Richard Jefferson did not put them over the top like some thought. The Spurs are missing the tough defensive play of Bruce Bowen and the crazy come-out-of-nowhere threes in the playoffs of Big Shot Robert Horry. There is little to no chance the Spurs will be able to win another title with their current make up.TS: It hard to believe, but it appears as though they are. While Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili continue to play at high levels, it appears as though their supporting cast has fallen apart. DeJuan Blair and George Hill are solid, but theyre both also very inexperienced. Roger Mason Jr.s production has taken a hit, Michael Finley and Antonio McDyess are shells of their former selves, and theyre getting nothing from Richard Jefferson or Matt Bonner. This season has been a major disappointment so far in San Antonio, and their goose looks cooked. 9. If Phil Jackson leaves, who will the Lakers get to coach?GR: If the Zen Master decides to call it quits after this season, the Lakers will have a difficult decision. My best guess is that they would pursue an experienced coach with Finals experience like an Avery Johnson; however, everyone knows the coach will be subject to Kobe approval and he may lean more towards trying to lure Kurt Rambis back from the T-Wolves.TS: It seemed as though Kurt Rambis was supposed to be that guy, but since he bolted, the door appears to be reopened. I do think Lakers assistant Brian Shaw is certainly a candidate, and Green Bay Packers jersey
to me would appear to be the frontrunner should the position become vacant. Im sure they could basically lure whomever they wanted to become their next coach, but Im not sure they won keep it in house. 10. How (if possible) can the Golden State Warriors be fixed?GR: Golden State can only be fixed if Don Nelson learns how to coach defense. It is impossible to truly compete in theNBAif the only goal is to try and score, score, score, and play no defense. Most likely, the Warriors will have to move on without Nelson if they ever plan on competing.TS: First off, they need a new owner. Secondly, they need to get rid of Don Nelson. Thirdly, they need to find a way to exile guys like Monta Ellis and Corey Maggette. While those two are solid players, theyre not helping any situations being stuck out in Oakland. Before the deadline, the Warriors reportedly turned down an offer from Memphis that wouldve brought OJ Mayo and Hasheem Thabeet to G-State for Ellis. If they really did reject it, then it just a sign of how awful the management out there really is. They need to be giving the floor time to guys like Ronny Turiaf, Stephen Curry, Kelenna Azubuike, and Anthony Randolph. I know these guys have spent lots of time injured this season, but even when healthy they weren logging enough minutes. They have a decent core of talent, theyre just not utilizing it well. They need to re-do everything that has to do with their front office. Easy enough, right?
environment. The Hawks have the ability but may lack the leadership to beat the Magic or Cavs.TS: No, I don think so. Theyre certainly capable of making some noise and causing some problems, but I don think theyll ultimately have enough to actually dethrone either of them. Their roster is extremely talented, but I think their lack of much depth off the bench will hurt them in the playoffs if theyre matched up with Cleveland or Orlando. Each of those teams is more deep and more versatile, and I don think the Hawks would have enough to beat either of them in a long series. 2. Does anybody not named LeBron James have a chance to win MVP ?GR: Kevin Durant certainly has a chance to make a last stab at winning theMVPtrophy, but it will take nothing short of a miracle. For KD to have a chance to win, the Thunder will have to put together a nice run to close out the season and position themselves as a legit threat in the Western Conference playoffs. Along with the Thunder success, the Cavs will almost certainly have to stumble to the finish line for LeBron to fall out of favor withMVPvoters. Is it possible? Yes. Will it happen? Doubtful.TS: No, not really. Kevin Durant is making a nice push, but this is LeBron to lose, and there no way he loses it. He got his Cavs at the top of the East, and it doesn look as though theyll be relinquishing that in the regular season. KD has been amazing in helping get the Thunder to where they are now, but LeBron numbers are completely staggering. I could see him one day becoming just the second player in league history to lead the league in both scoring and assists. LeBron is theMVPthis season. 3. Will the possible re-emergence of teams like the Bulls and Knicks (through free agency) help shift the power of the league back East?GR: The upcoming free agent class certainly has the potential to shift the power structure of theNBA. It seems the daily rumors with regards to the top free agents all seem to have these players going to Eastern Conference teams. The reasoning for this is simple: The eastern conference teams are currently inferior, and therefore more willing to shed salary and players, sinking them further into mediocrity and allowing themselves more money for free agent spending. If LeBron, Bosh, Amar, Boozer, Wade, and Joe Johnson all end up Denver Broncos jersey
in the Eastern Conference, the power will certainly begin to shift in that direction. While the west will remain strong, the addition of two or three more All-Stars could change the east's fortune.TS: It definitely could, it just depends on who goes where and how everything eventually fits together. If you look at it, the only real notable free agents from the West are Carlos Boozer and Amar Stoudemire. If they join the other top-tier guys out East, it clearly could change the landscape of the league. However, the way it is today, the top four teams in the East might stack up better than the top four teams in the West. The real discrepancy is at the bottom of the conferences. Teams like Chicago and New York adding top free- agent talent would certainly help even things out a bit. 4. If they don make the Finals, will this summer bring on major change in Boston?GR: If Boston again falls short of the Finals there is no doubt some changes are coming. First off, Ray Allen will not be returning unless it is at a very steep discount. Rasheed Wallace has largely been a disappointment and will be traded or perhaps released. Garnett and Pierce are beginning to show their age, and the Celtics may try and make a last-ditch effort to move one or both of them in order to recoup any value possible. In other words, yes, it is very likely the Celtics will be a shell of their current team next season.TS: I don know how much flexibility they have with their contracts, but their only major free agent is Ray Allen. While he started off the season poorly, he really coming on strong, and the Celtics look like a much better team with him playing like were used to seeing him. I don know what better option they would have, so Im not sure that they wouldn just re-sign him for a lesser contract this summer. Either way, I can imagine the Celtics having enough flexibility with their salaries to be able to shake things up too much. 5. Will signing LeBron and Wade/Bosh actually make the Knicks elite? Or will there be too little money left to assemble a good enough supporting cast?GR: This is the big question for the Knicks in the offseason. The Knicks have about $18 million committed for next year, mostly to players who have little impact on the team. Their current best player, David Lee, will be a free agent and given his outstanding season, could command too high a salary to re-sign. With the predicted cap being around $51 million, that simply does not leave enough room after giving LeBron a max deal, then giving Wade/Bosh close to max deals to sign anyone real worthwhile. This massive salary/talent dump could end costing the Knicks more than they asked for, given that LeBron and Bosh probably can play all five positions on the floor.TS: As LeBron has shown in the past, he capable of making a team solid despite a dearth ofDetroit Lions
talent. Just look at the 2007 Cavs team he was able to get all the way to the Finals. Larry Hughes was the second-best player on that team, and he was somewhat of a disappointment for them (Larry Hughes? A disappointment? What??). Now, James is even better than he was back then, and pairing him with another superstar should make for a good enough team. Plus, if the Knicks are able to pair LeBron with another star, I think more players are going to want to join the team for less money. Why wouldn you want to? I think itll be plenty to make them into contenders. 6. Do the Clippers have a legitimate chance to land LeBron or another big name free agent?GR: If the Clippers are willing, they have a chance to add a big name over the summer. They are in the nation second largest media market and offer the allure of the Hollywood lifestyle. The Clippers can also offer the chance to the egotistical superstar of trying to make the Clippers LA team. Although accomplishing this task may be next to impossible, it may not be above LeBron to try. The Clippers do also have a solid supporting cast with Baron Davis, Chris Kaman, and 2009 first-overall pick Blake Griffin. The Clippers do have a shot to sign a top free agent, but in the end they probably will not.TS: I really think they do, despite the whole worst franchise in pro sports thing. Los Angeles is an attractive location, and the Clips have a solid core of young talent in place with Kaman, Griffin (hopefully), Gordon, and Davis. I can definitely see why somebody would want to play there. Will they? Im not so sure, but I think they definitely at least have a chance. 7. Will the Mavericks be a factor in free agency this summer?GR: The Mavs will not be a factor in free agency. They have a lot of money committed to their core players and their main focus this summer will be trying to lock up Dirk for the remainder of his career. Cuban is satisfied with the team he has assembled and will continue to try and win with his current players, although I don't think a team built around Dirk will ever win a title.TS: It possible. Dallas is a desirable place, and Mark Cuban/Donnie Nelson have some flexibility with their contracts. Erick Dampier contract says he can be cut anytime before the beginning of next season, which would free up just over $13 million. Caron Butler also has a $10 million expiring contract, which can be dangled in front of other teams as sign-and-trade possibilities. I don think theyre going to be able to land any of the big-time guys, but they do have room to try. 8. Are the Spurs done contending for championships with their current core?GR: The Spurs certainly do seem like they might be ready to ride off into the sunset. Tim Duncan is showing signs of aging and Parker has not been his usual self due to an array of injuries this season. The acquisition of Richard Jefferson did not put them over the top like some thought. The Spurs are missing the tough defensive play of Bruce Bowen and the crazy come-out-of-nowhere threes in the playoffs of Big Shot Robert Horry. There is little to no chance the Spurs will be able to win another title with their current make up.TS: It hard to believe, but it appears as though they are. While Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili continue to play at high levels, it appears as though their supporting cast has fallen apart. DeJuan Blair and George Hill are solid, but theyre both also very inexperienced. Roger Mason Jr.s production has taken a hit, Michael Finley and Antonio McDyess are shells of their former selves, and theyre getting nothing from Richard Jefferson or Matt Bonner. This season has been a major disappointment so far in San Antonio, and their goose looks cooked. 9. If Phil Jackson leaves, who will the Lakers get to coach?GR: If the Zen Master decides to call it quits after this season, the Lakers will have a difficult decision. My best guess is that they would pursue an experienced coach with Finals experience like an Avery Johnson; however, everyone knows the coach will be subject to Kobe approval and he may lean more towards trying to lure Kurt Rambis back from the T-Wolves.TS: It seemed as though Kurt Rambis was supposed to be that guy, but since he bolted, the door appears to be reopened. I do think Lakers assistant Brian Shaw is certainly a candidate, and Green Bay Packers jersey
to me would appear to be the frontrunner should the position become vacant. Im sure they could basically lure whomever they wanted to become their next coach, but Im not sure they won keep it in house. 10. How (if possible) can the Golden State Warriors be fixed?GR: Golden State can only be fixed if Don Nelson learns how to coach defense. It is impossible to truly compete in theNBAif the only goal is to try and score, score, score, and play no defense. Most likely, the Warriors will have to move on without Nelson if they ever plan on competing.TS: First off, they need a new owner. Secondly, they need to get rid of Don Nelson. Thirdly, they need to find a way to exile guys like Monta Ellis and Corey Maggette. While those two are solid players, theyre not helping any situations being stuck out in Oakland. Before the deadline, the Warriors reportedly turned down an offer from Memphis that wouldve brought OJ Mayo and Hasheem Thabeet to G-State for Ellis. If they really did reject it, then it just a sign of how awful the management out there really is. They need to be giving the floor time to guys like Ronny Turiaf, Stephen Curry, Kelenna Azubuike, and Anthony Randolph. I know these guys have spent lots of time injured this season, but even when healthy they weren logging enough minutes. They have a decent core of talent, theyre just not utilizing it well. They need to re-do everything that has to do with their front office. Easy enough, right?
2011年1月8日星期六
8 Jan 11 Can Anyone Stop a LeBron Repeat?
Jim McIsaac/Getty ImagesSports betting players are gearing up for the stretch run to the NBA playoffs, which means it time to start thinking about who will win the MVP award this year. It looks to be a foregone conclusion that LeBron James will win for the second straight year, but here is a look at four other candidates who could possibly wrest the honor from him.LeBron James, ClevelandNot only is he the most dynamic player in the game, James really is the most valuable player in the league. Can you see Cleveland with the No.1 record in the league ifJacksonville Jaguars jersey
James wasn on the team? He a triple-double threat each and every time he steps out on the floor, and it wouldn even really be a surprise if he ends up averaging one for a season, and soon.Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles LakersBryant is hurt in this category as the Lakers actually went 4-1 in a five-game stretch in which he was injured, but if your team is taking the last shot to win the game, who do you want with the ball? Bryant has won a few games this year with last-second shots, and he still has the strongest will in the game.Kevin Durant, Oklahoma CityEven though his Texas Longhorns have fallen out of the race according to 2010 March Madness odds, Durant has powered the Thunder to a possible homecourt advantage in the playoffs as perhaps the biggest surprise of the season. Durant could be the best pure scorer inKansas City Chiefs jersey
the NBA, and he improved his defense as well. No one expected the Thunder to be this good this soon, and Durant ability to score from anywhere is the main reason.Jason Kidd, DallasKidd is probably the longshot of the group, but he ranks in the top five in steals and assists, and most surprisingly, he having the best three-point shooting campaign of his career. Kidd his averaging his age in minutes per game (36), and the Mavericks are pushing Denver as the second seed in the Western Conference. Dirk Nowitzki and the moves to get Caron Butler and Brendan Haywood have been important, but Kidd steers the ship. Were betting management isn so upset about the Devin Harris trade anymore.Dwyane Wade, MiamiThis inclusion is more of a testament to how little help Wade has. Without him, the Heat are barely Miami Dolphins jersey
a university team. The Heat are 2-3 when Wade has missed a game this year, and one of those wins came in New Jersey, which doesn really count. The Heat have to get some help for Wade or hell bolt in the offseason, which would be a disaster in south Florida. Put it this way: if the Heat were in the NCAA Tournament without Wade, right now, would you wager on their March Madness odds? I think not.
James wasn on the team? He a triple-double threat each and every time he steps out on the floor, and it wouldn even really be a surprise if he ends up averaging one for a season, and soon.Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles LakersBryant is hurt in this category as the Lakers actually went 4-1 in a five-game stretch in which he was injured, but if your team is taking the last shot to win the game, who do you want with the ball? Bryant has won a few games this year with last-second shots, and he still has the strongest will in the game.Kevin Durant, Oklahoma CityEven though his Texas Longhorns have fallen out of the race according to 2010 March Madness odds, Durant has powered the Thunder to a possible homecourt advantage in the playoffs as perhaps the biggest surprise of the season. Durant could be the best pure scorer inKansas City Chiefs jersey
the NBA, and he improved his defense as well. No one expected the Thunder to be this good this soon, and Durant ability to score from anywhere is the main reason.Jason Kidd, DallasKidd is probably the longshot of the group, but he ranks in the top five in steals and assists, and most surprisingly, he having the best three-point shooting campaign of his career. Kidd his averaging his age in minutes per game (36), and the Mavericks are pushing Denver as the second seed in the Western Conference. Dirk Nowitzki and the moves to get Caron Butler and Brendan Haywood have been important, but Kidd steers the ship. Were betting management isn so upset about the Devin Harris trade anymore.Dwyane Wade, MiamiThis inclusion is more of a testament to how little help Wade has. Without him, the Heat are barely Miami Dolphins jersey
a university team. The Heat are 2-3 when Wade has missed a game this year, and one of those wins came in New Jersey, which doesn really count. The Heat have to get some help for Wade or hell bolt in the offseason, which would be a disaster in south Florida. Put it this way: if the Heat were in the NCAA Tournament without Wade, right now, would you wager on their March Madness odds? I think not.
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