The National Basketball Association (NBA) - A Shadow Of Its Former Self!

[pholmeskc31]

The National Basketball Association (NBA) is the pre-eminent men's professional basketball league in North America. It consists of thirty franchised member clubs, of which twenty-nine are located in the United States and one in Canada. It is an active member of USA Basketball (USAB), which is recognized by the International Basketball Federation as the National Governing Body (NGB) for basketball in the United States. The NBA is one of the four major North American professional sports leagues. NBA players are the world's best paid sportsmen, by average annual salary per player.

The league was founded in New York City on June 6, 1946 as the Basketball Association of America (BAA). The league adopted the name National Basketball Association in 1949 after merging with the rival National Basketball League (NBL). The league's several international as well as individual team offices are directed out of its head offices located in the Olympic Tower at 645 Fifth Avenue in New York City. NBA Entertainment and NBA TV studios are directed out of offices located in Secaucus, New Jersey.

[armanisuit]

first of congrat to dmavsfan for his team making the finals.

as a Laker fan I will be rooting for the Mavs.

I voted Mavs in 7.

[durcam]

Go Heat!!!!!!!!!

[fitfan]

Mavs in 6. DWade and Shaq are fantastic but I don't think J Williams and A Walker will continue to shoot the ball as they have recently.

[supraman_2]

first of congrat to dmavsfan for his team making the finals.

as a Laker fan I will be rooting for the Mavs.

I voted Mavs in 7.
Don't congratulate that retard Mavs are going down!!!
Haha
I really don't care either way

[pholmeskc31]

Don't congratulate that retard Mavs are going down!!!
Haha
I really don't care either way
I hope the Mavs go down also.

[dmavsfan41]

I hope the Mavs go down also.

spoken like a true Suns fan! :)

[jdrock24]

I don't really follow the NBA that much during the regular season. But I think that Shaq can smell that ring and is going to dominate the Mavs inside and single-handedly propel his team to the title. So I voted Heat in 6.

[durcam]

Only 2 things come from Dallas , Queers n' Steers , and dem "Mavs" don't look like no Steers to me hahahahahaha...........:021:

[bigusdickus]

Shaq and Wade are playing phenominally well, but Miami's supporting cast doesn't match up very well against Dallas. Miami's only advandage is in the backcourt with D-Wade playing exceptionally well, I mean the guy is kicking ass all over the court. But that's it. Dallas has the upper hand in every other aspect of the game. Nowitzki is his usual MVP self, and Howard is playing--and has been playing all season long--at an all-star level. Dallas' depth is incredible. They have three men at every position, and all of whom can account for a starting lineup elsewhere in the league. This produces a non-stop force that any team in the league struggles to defeat, this is a good reason why Dallas went 60-22 in the reg. season, but it's mainly an effect of the suffocating defensive philosophy implemented by Avery Johnson, NBA's Coach of the Year. Dallas also defeated Miami 2-0 in the reg. season. I've got an ingling feeling that Dallas will be bringing home their first ring this year.

Mavs in 6.

[durcam]

Shaq and Wade are playing phenominally well, but Miami's supporting cast doesn't match up very well against Dallas. Miami's only advandage is in the backcourt with D-Wade playing exceptionally well, I mean the guy is kicking ass all over the court. But that's it. Dallas has the upper hand in every other aspect of the game. Nowitzki is his usual MVP self, and Howard is playing--and has been playing all season long--at an all-star level. Dallas' depth is incredible. They have three men at every position, and all of whom can account for a starting lineup elsewhere in the league. This produces a non-stop force that any team in the league struggles to defeat, this is a good reason why Dallas went 60-22 in the reg. season, but it's mainly an effect of the suffocating defensive philosophy implemented by Avery Johnson, NBA's Coach of the Year. Dallas also defeated Miami 2-0 in the reg. season. I've got an ingling feeling that Dallas will be bringing home their first ring this year.

Mavs in 6.

The "experts" also said the same thing about The Bulls , Nets and Detroit , we shall see how West Coast runnin n' gunnin aka sissy ball fares..........:021:

[dmavsfan41]

The "experts" also said the same thing about The Bulls , Nets and Detroit , we shall see how West Coast runnin n' gunnin aka sissy ball fares..........:021:

lol @ durcam calling dallas' game 'sissy ball' ... someone clearly has not been watching the actual games

[bigusdickus]

The "experts" also said the same thing about The Bulls , Nets and Detroit , we shall see how West Coast runnin n' gunnin aka sissy ball fares..........:021:Two things: 1) the depth of the teams you just listed off doesn't even come close to matching the dept Dallas has and 2) the Mavs play with an aggressively balanced style of play on both ends of the court, which leads me to believe that you don't know what you're talking about. So I'll leave it at that.

[durcam]

Two things: 1) the depth of the teams you just listed off doesn't even come close to matching the dept Dallas has and 2) the Mavs play with an aggressively balanced style of play on both ends of the court, which leads me to believe that you don't know what you're talking about. So I'll leave it at that.

Depth , smepth , the "best" team in the NBA , 64 wins , consensus favorite just got trounced.

West coast Ballet..... err I mean B-ball ain't my cup o' tea , if I wanted to see dancing I'd watch Bravo, Heat in 6 or less hahashahaha...........:021:

"which leads me to believe that you don't know what you're talking about"

Don't get all emotional and drop digs , it's all in fun + I bite back real hard , if you don't know you better ask somebody , it's all good , for now..............:075:

[pholmeskc31]

just cause Dallas won the reg. season series 2-0 doesnt mean shit and it never has. any true basketball fan knows that. this is the playoffs teams always play a lot harder in the playoffs than they do in the reg. season. this will be a tough series for both teams. and i am glad we finally got some new teams to watch this year. even though one of them isnt the one i wanted in the finals but 2 different teams i'll take this finals matchup anyday over the Pistons/Snores i mean Spurs. i dont want to see Dallas lose just cause they beat Phoenix. i just like the Heat more than the Mavs. ive always been a Shaq fan. my 2 favorite teams are the Suns an Magic and Shaq started out in Orlando and i been liking these teams ever since i been liking the NBA since '91.

[bigusdickus]

Depth , smepth , the "best" team in the NBA , 64 wins , consensus favorite just got trounced.

West coast Ballet..... err I mean B-ball ain't my cup o' tea , if I wanted to see dancing I'd watch Bravo, Heat in 6 or less hahashahaha...........:021:

"which leads me to believe that you don't know what you're talking about"

Don't get all emotional and drop digs , it's all in fun + I bite back real hard , if you don't know you better ask somebody , it's all good , for now..............:075:Nobody's emotional here, and I wasn't dropping "digs" either. I just don't understand how you can reasonably make such a blanket statement about West Coast ball being "sissy ball", even after a West Coast team won the championship last year. Wouldn't that make East Coast ball seem even worse? Yep, it sure would. :021:

just cause Dallas won the reg. season series 2-0 doesnt mean shit and it never has. any true basketball fan knows that. this is the playoffs teams always play a lot harder in the playoffs than they do in the reg. season. this will be a tough series for both teams. and i am glad we finally got some new teams to watch this year. even though one of them isnt the one i wanted in the finals but 2 different teams i'll take this finals matchup anyday over the Pistons/Snores i mean Spurs. i dont want to see Dallas lose just cause they beat Phoenix. i just like the Heat more than the Mavs. ive always been a Shaq fan. my 2 favorite teams are the Suns an Magic and Shaq started out in Orlando and i been liking these teams ever since i been liking the NBA since '91.If it doesn't mean shit, then we should do away with the regular season all together, and jump straight into the playoffs every year. :031: The reg. season point is moot, I agree. It does, however, shed light onto my main point of supporting Dallas' projected victory: depth and matchups which will definitely prove as an interesting series to watch because both teams pose problems to the other, but I believe Dallas has the advantange in this respect.

I like Shaq, too, he's seems to be a very likeable guy and a fantastic player. Every time he's in town to play the Mavs, he stops by one of the local sports stations (The Ticket) to shoot the shit on the air. He's a cool dude. But I've been a Dallas fan since day one...yep, even through the shitty 80's and 90's when they were the laughing stock of the NBA. I'm a diehard fan for sure.

Anyway, it will be a fun series indeed.

[durcam]

If the West is the best , how the hell did the Suns make it to the finals or even playoffs, with only Nash and a few throw-ins ? If Stoudimare was healthy Dirk would be on his usual second rd. choking holiday hahahaha, I don't watch the West much , cause I can't watch that style.We shall see...........:004:

[dmavsfan41]

can't watch that 'style,' lol, you mean good teams and all? who's the east got? miami and the pistons are the only decent teams, I guess you enjoy watching teams like the raptors, bulls, celtics, sixers, magic, bobcats, knicks, etc. all complete losers.

your projection of amare being with the suns this year automatically putting them over dallas is a complete joke. why don't you add statements like, if the jazz had been healthy this year they would have made a big push? dude you talk about 'don't dig me' and then you proceed to dig the mavs like that. that's not cool

with only Nash and a few throw-ins ?
that's right, Shawn Marion, I forgot, he wasn't even considered as a possible MVP candidate. tim thomas flat out sucks, he's so bad the Bulls released him. Diaw, he's a lousy Atlanta Hawks reject, he probably won most improved player by default. and that barbosa guy, so what if he's fast, he's french, how can he be any good? sigh

I don't watch the West much
that explains a lot

[durcam]

Go Heat!!!

[durcam]

The Mavs and Heat can take a few "digs" I think , I'm talking about personal attacks over sumn' that should be fun , Heat in 6 , I read sumn' on ESPN that said Dirk had gotten "tough" hahahahaha right........:004:

2 things come from Miami , Thugs n' Juggs , and dem Heat sure don't look like no Juggs to me hahahahaha..........:004:

Go Heat!!!

[dmavsfan41]

I read sumn' on ESPN that said Dirk had gotten "tough" hahahahaha right........:004:


i give up...

[pholmeskc31]

what the fuck is up your ass lately anyway. those players your bashing are decent players that any team could use. did u see what happened last year when they had Amare they fucked the Mavs up in 6. I guarantee u if they had Amare this series would of at least gone 7 and not knowing who would win. Game 7 could of went either way. If the Suns suck so bad how come they made it to the West Finals 2 straight years. The Suns were the like the Heat of last year in this series not entirely but in some way not having a star player. The Heat last year didnt have Shaq and Wade healthy and look what happened they lost, this year their in the Finals. Im not saying the reason why the Suns lost that series against the Mavs was cause they didnt have Amare. The Suns fucked themselves with stupid turnovers in at least two of those games they lost. Phoenix needs to work on their defense. Do i think the Suns would of beat Dallas if they had Amare i dont know but the series would of been tough for both teams to win and i dont think Dirk would of had all those big games like he did.

[pholmeskc31]

your full of yourself if u think the Mavs are gonna win this Finals in 5 and if they do their lucky. im suprised u just didnt pick em in 4. if they win in 5 more power to u and your lucky guess.

[dmavsfan41]

those players your bashing are decent players that any team could use.

sigh. I guess I didn't hit that sarcasm button hard enough

[pholmeskc31]

sigh. I guess I didn't hit that sarcasm button hard enough
sorry about that i should of read that twice. too bad it didnt go 7 now we have to wait to see the Heat beat the Mavs until Thursday.:010:

[durcam]

Truth about this series is , no one know's , regular season mean's nothing now, the "experts" are all bandwagon , front running phoneys,

Pissedons vs. Bores , right.

Everyone's opinion come's down to "like" and homerism , funny to me, we shall see.........:010:

Go Heat!!!

[tommykhu550]

I'm taking the Heat in 7!
If the Mavs do win, it will be great. Sort of tired of seeing San Antonio. And really tired of Los Angeles winning the trophy.

[Remnant]

This is going to be an interesting series--plenty of storylines for the writers. But the real action is going to be in the matchups.

Dallas with the ball
Dallas runs tons of the high pick & roll with Dirk. Miami does not have two players who can switch from Dirk to a guard or vice-versa, so Dallas will kill Miami with this play. All. Series. Long. Miami will therefore intentionally overplay the perimeter on the switch, forcing Dallas to dive to the basket. Shaq/Mourning will patrol the paint and hope the referees allow some contact as they run shot blocking drills. All. Series. Long.

Dallas' smaller players will unfortunately slash and dish to open 3-point shooters at will. Again, the Heat will need to stay home on the perimeter and allow their centers to cruise the paint to counter this. Dallas slashers will then settle for tons of 8-12 foot jump shots and bury many.

As far as pace goes, we know Dallas will run against the Heat, neutralizing the slower centers and slow-witted power forwards of Miami by scoring early in the shot clock. Few answers available here for Miami.

Miami with the ball
Miami will play inside-out with Shaq (duh), so he'll need to stay out of foul trouble. Then he can wreak havoc on the poor Dallas centers. He'll foul Van Horn out at will but Diop and Dampier will slow him down, especially as the fast pace wears Shaq out.

Fortunately for Shaq, he can always pass to Wade. He'll be matched up against any of three players: long-limbed guard Jason Terry, quick guard Devin Harris, or great athlete Josh Howard. My guess is he'll eat Harris alive, but Terry and Howard will harass him enough to make him pass too often.

That leaves most of the games in the hands of Miami's role players. They are overall slower than Dallas and will have to rely on size and ball movement. Doesn't bode well for them. The Heat are just going to have to work much harder than Dallas to score.

So my prediction is Dallas in 6.

[Remnant]

Here's an article that says what real experts think: gamblers.
Link: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/basketball/mavs/stories/060506dnspomavsodds.d78242b.html

Two Las Vegas casinos and Charles Barkley have named the Mavericks the favorite to win the NBA title over Miami.

The Las Vegas Hilton sports book lists the Mavericks as 2-1 favorites. They're 3-2 favorites at Mandalay Bay.

Dallas is a 4 1/2 -point favorite to win Thursday's opener of the Finals at American Airlines Center.

Barkley, a former player and TNT analyst, has bashed the Mavericks for several years. But after Dallas defeated Phoenix in the Western Conference finals, Barkley picked the Mavs to beat the Heat.

Part of the reason Dallas has opened as a slight favorite with the Vegas books is the home-court advantage it holds in the best-of-7 series, said Jay Rood, sports book director at Mandalay Bay.

"The rest is talent," Rood said. "I think Dallas has the most versatile of the teams, with Dirk [Nowitzki], who can drop 50 on any given night. That's a dangerous element the Heat will have to deal with."

David DuPree, a longtime NBA writer with USA Today, agrees that Dallas' depth will be too much for the Heat.

"Miami has the experience, but the Mavericks are so versatile, it's tough to go against them," Dupree said. "Dallas has the big bodies to throw at Shaquille O'Neal, and neutralizing him someway is the first step in trying to beat the Heat."

DuPree picked the Mavericks to win in six games. ESPN analyst Marc Stein, a former Mavericks beat writer with The Dallas Morning News , predicted the Mavs to win in six games.

There are people, however, picking the Heat.

Magic Johnson, a guest analyst for TNT and part-owner of the Lakers, picked Miami in six games. So did Chris Broussard, a writer with ESPN The Magazine.

[pholmeskc31]

just cause u have a lot or the most talent doesnt mean they'll win. look at the Knicks. the Blazers a few years ago when they should of went to the finals and won instead they blew a 20 point lead in the 4th to the Lakers. which to me was the greatest playoff game i ever seen.

[adude00724]

I don't think the heat can stop Dirk - so mavs will win, but it should be a pretty good series.

[4fire]

Heat should win, They will slow Dirk by using a big guy and a small guy to double on him

[sandler]

im rooting for the mavs!!

[Echo]

I don't see the heat having the supporting cast to beat the Mav's. Dirk is an animal and shaq is getting long of tooth.

[fartman23]

I know I should like Mark Cuban...he's an involved owner who spends money to make his team better, he's pretty much a self-made guy, he's got an irreverent attitude, and he speaks his mind, unlike most of the corporate-sounding drones who dominate the American sports landscape. So why do I dislike him so much? Am I jealous? Am I foolish for hating the thing I've wished would happen. Cuban is a populist owner, but there's just something...unsavory about him. I'll be rooting for Miami....

--FM23

[MichaelJordan]

I am saying Heat in 6, almost all playoff series ends in 4-2. I want the mavs to win thou, they have been on the backburner for so long!!! I remember the days with Derek Harper and Ronaldo Blackman hehe.

[pholmeskc31]

I am saying Heat in 6, almost all playoff series ends in 4-2. I want the mavs to win thou, they have been on the backburner for so long!!! I remember the days with Derek Harper and Ronaldo Blackman hehe.
I remember them days too. I had a bunch of Blackmans basketball cards.

[bubblegumbo]

I really think it will be up to the bench players that will determine the deciding game, it will be interesting to see how well Payton and Mourning perform for the ultimate fufillment of their career goal.

[PhoeniX27J]

What's the score...?Mav's thru...?And I didn't know Payton and Mourning still played, 4 which team...?

[demen23]

unfortunatly my home team Detroit lost to he heat in game 6 so i think the mavs are ganna do the same thing to them, Mav in 6

[pholmeskc31]

unfortunatly my home team Detroit lost to he heat in game 6 so i think the mavs are ganna do the same thing to them, Mav in 6
its actually good for the NBA and the rest of the country that Detroit or San Antonio didnt make the Finals cause it would of been the 2nd straight year for me that i didnt see any Finals games. they are great teams but damn these teams help me sleep at night.

[sandler]

i dont think anyone in miami can guard dirk. he's gonna shoot the lights out of the heat!

[pholmeskc31]

we'll see how tonights game goes.

[pholmeskc31]

Mavs win game 1 90-80. At least its best of 7. Pretty good game.

[durcam]

Jason Williams reverted to a shot happy PG and Pat Riley was out-coached :013:

Go HEAT!!!

[sandler]

jason terry killed the heat tonight!! its just weird why the heat didnt pass the ball inside to shaq in the second half of the game. payton, just like the last time he was in the finals, was terrible again.

i just have a question about mark cuban. is the dude gay? coz, if i was a billionaire who owned the mavs, id have lots of chicks beside me while im watching the game.

[dmavsfan41]

the mavs, aside from terry, played a pretty poor offensive game and still won by 10. what'd they have, it was at least 7 turnovers in the 3rd... then there was that frustrating stretch in the 4th... up by 10, terry AIR BALLS a wide-open layup... lead down to 6, 4, maybe 3 at one point... sigh, that was annoying. howard and nowitzki will get on track soon :)

[fitfan]

Very strong defensive effort for the Mavs after the first quarter was the main reason they won the game. Jet Terry kept them in it for the first half, he was fantastic.

Sandler, Cuban isn't gay, he is married and his wife is I think 6 or 7 months pregnant. Not to say he might not have something on the side but he has about 4 billion reasons why you never see him with a woman on his side. :)

[babyblues]

the mavs, aside from terry, played a pretty poor offensive game and still won by 10. what'd they have, it was at least 7 turnovers in the 3rd... then there was that frustrating stretch in the 4th... up by 10, terry AIR BALLS a wide-open layup... lead down to 6, 4, maybe 3 at one point... sigh, that was annoying. howard and nowitzki will get on track soon :)
Wade was making some poor decisions down the stretch. He forced alot of shots and it looked like the Heat were in some kind of damned hurry. And Shaq only takes four shots in the first half???? WTF is that? It didn't seem like the Heat were playing too smart. No disrespect to the Mavs, but this series is Miami's to win or lose. If Miami plays well, I don't see the Mavs being able to do a damn thing to stop them.

[MichaelJordan]

It is gonna be a good series, I want the Mavs to win, but I think the heat will... Not so sure now with Dallas up 1.... Can go either way. Whoever wins, alot of deserving and good players are gonna get their first championship! :001:

[durcam]

I've been reading what a plain majority of people have to say after game 1 , and it seem's all the Mavs have to do is prepare for a ceremony , hmm . after 1 game where they were held to 90 points and Pat Riley didn't seem focussed? , kinda pre-mature , if you ask me.........:004:

Go Heat!!!!

[sandler]

fitfan, thanks man.

im watching game 2 now and looks like another win for the mavs. the heat look bamboozled by what the mavs are doing. i think detroit wouldve been a better match up with the mavs compared to the heat. well, at least the detroit of old, the ones who used to do defense.

[Junkboxy]

All the Heat have to do is guard guys shooting wide-open jump shots, don't let guys blow past them to the hole, knock down some open shots, don't throw the ball over 5 feet over Shaq's head, and speaking of Shaq, maybe get him the ball early and often, make some free throws, and maybe they'll have a chance of hanging with the Mavericks ... YA THINK!

[pholmeskc31]

Thats one thing thats bothering me bout watching the Heat, they need to get the ball to Shaq more. If they did that the games would be closer to at least have a shot at winning it. Mavs are killing em.

[demen23]

i missed game 2, who won?

[fartman23]

Mavs killed 'em. Shaq set a career-low for the playoffs with five points scored, and also career-lows in field goals attempted and made. It was ugly if you're a Heat fan. Generally speaking, this looks something like a disastrous matchup for Miami: Dallas is so much quicker, and can hang in there, rebounding-wise. Detroit and their lumbering offense was a better matchup, for sure. But that's two at home for Dallas...maybe Miami picks it up at home over the next three. It ain't over yet....

--FM23

[dmavsfan41]

i want to knwo what the f-ck the refs are doing at the end fo this game. you got mavs getting knocked down left and right yet never a single foul call. it doesn't help that hte mavs are sucking, keep trying to give it to dirk and he tries a lame shot that inevitably falls short, then just might as well give the ball to haslem there

:ANGRY:

[JadeGiant]

So now it's a two-point game!

[dmavsfan41]

I still believe the Mavs will win the series, but honestly - they have NO killer instinct. None at all. I thought the refs ignored some fouls the Heat made, but the Mavs had a 10+ point lead with like 4-5 minutes left. You suck real bad to lose a game after that.

[pholmeskc31]

Heat win game 3 98-96! Now its a series.

[JadeGiant]

Sorry dmavs, looks like the Mavs won't win any "Team of the Decade" awards, but at least they did go two up on the Heat, which is no small feat.

[pholmeskc31]

I still believe the Mavs will win the series, but honestly - they have NO killer instinct. None at all. I thought the refs ignored some fouls the Heat made, but the Mavs had a 10+ point lead with like 4-5 minutes left. You suck real bad to lose a game after that.
Every game has bad calls and no calls. Theres no reason to bitch about that shit anymore. Refs suck we all know. Almost every team some time or another blows a big lead. I think the Mavs might still win the series but if Miami takes game 4 i dont know.

[tozer21]

heat wins!

[fartman23]

Wade was just amazing in the final five minutes. That's probably what it's going to take...super-human efforts from the Flash. Oh, and Shaq actually making a free throw.

--FM23

[sandler]

i still think that the mavs will win the series. they just crumbled towards the end. its just like, they lost the game more than miami winning it.

[fartman23]

i still think that the mavs will win the series. they just crumbled towards the end. its just like, they lost the game more than miami winning it.
Good point, sandler. Dallas has played better in all three games...they've obviously been the superior team, but gagged away the last few minutes of Game 3. ABC is simply *begging* Miami to win the next one, because then Sunday night's tilt will actually mean something. Wade apparently still isn't in top health...it may be asking too much.

--FM23

[pholmeskc31]

Heat win game 4 98-74 and tie the seies 2-2. Dallas might of played better in the 3 other games but not this one. They got their asses whooped! Looks like Dallas wont win in 5.

[dmavsfan41]

Heat win game 4 98-74 and tie the seies 2-2. Dallas might of played better in the 3 other games but not this one. They got their asses whooped! Looks like Dallas wont win in 5.

they would have if they hadn't sucked in the last 6 minutes of game 3. :(

now, they have to win game 5 pretty bad... sure they could win 2 in a row in dallas, but they'd have no momentum coming off of 3 straight losses. after dirk's incredibly poor performance last night, I'm wondering if it's time to switch the gameplan a little bit to take aat least some of the focus off of him. let terry and devin harris attack the rim, and when they draw help they can find howard and nowitzki for easier shots. it can't be any less effective than dirk taking 15+ ft fadeaways that inevitably clank off the front of the rim lately...

[durcam]

I think it's unfair for the league to allow the Heat to play the Dallas cheerleaders , oh damn , you mean that was the Mavs? hahahahahaha

Go Heat!!!!!!!...........:004:

[Junkboxy]

Finally a complete game from the Heat.
http://img15.imgspot.com/u/06/166/23/D8I9JLRG1preview1150514807.jpg

Get this --
Shithouse got suspended for Game 5 for this mid-air mauling on Shaq,
....and Avery Johnson is crying bloody murder about it.

I think he's lucky for not getting suspended for 2 games. That was not a basketball play.
I mean, that wasn't the ball Shithouse got is paw on, that was Shaq's head for crying out loud. Shaq could have landed in a way that was career-ending. Karma, Jerry, Karma.

[pholmeskc31]

I thought at first when that play happened i didnt really think it was a flagrant foul but the more they showed the replay u could tell he was not going for the ball. It was a flagrant and i had a feeling he was gonna get suspended for the next game before they even mentioned it. What a asshole for hurting his team like that.

[dmavsfan41]

At least he was trying to be assertive against the Heat unlike practically the entire rest of his team. Shaq is huge, and he was going to get an energizing monster dunk. Stackhouse decided to error on the side of fouling him too hard, and it cost him a game. The Mavs are deep enough that they can survive without him for a game ... if Dirk and Howard figure out how to make shots again...

[pholmeskc31]

But still he dint have to rush his shoulder into him he could of just hit him on the head like he did, instead of doing both. I think the Mavs could win without him but it still doesnt help.

[fartman23]

It definitely doesn't help, but I think dmavsfan41 has an excellent point: a night after Mark Cuban goes on Letterman and essentially calls out Pat Riley for being a dirty coach, his team plays Game 4 like they're afraid to break an egg. Who knows if it'll really be such a harm to the Mavs...it's all everyone's talking about, and it drew attention to Dallas's lack of intensity. I agree: someone needed to do something.

--FM23

[sandler]

if the mavs can start making their shots fall again, they'd win. game 4 was just a bad shooting night for them. they also have to find a way to stop, or at least contain, d wade. the guy is unstoppable.

[pholmeskc31]

Heat just won game 5 101-100! Howard what a jackass. I guess the Mavs take turns playing dummy. First Stackhouse and now Howard.:024:
I thought the Mavs were gonna win in 5.:006:
GO HEAT!

[Hard Drive]

OMG... Josh Howard............................................

It's over now, Mavs will not win :(

[durcam]

Mavs took off their skirts , wasn't enough ..........:004:

Go Heat!!!!!!

[dmavsfan41]

http://img48.imageshack.us/img48/9446/qbert3vh.gifhttp://img48.imageshack.us/img48/9446/qbert3vh.gifhttp://img48.imageshack.us/img48/9446/qbert3vh.gifhttp://img48.imageshack.us/img48/9446/qbert3vh.gifhttp://img48.imageshack.us/img48/9446/qbert3vh.gifhttp://img48.imageshack.us/img48/9446/qbert3vh.gif

[Junkboxy]

Hey what happened with that whole timeout thing? Did he call TO before Wade's second free throw, and mess-up the chance of taking the ball inbounds at half-court?

At first I thought the announcers were saying he called a timeout they didn't have, which would have meant technical foul free throws for Miami, but that didn't take place.

[PhoeniX27J]

Erm who's winning...? Did the Mavs loose...?

[pholmeskc31]

Erm who's winning...? Did the Mavs loose...?
The Heat lead the series 3-2 now. Why arent u watching the Finals if u want to know whos winning so bad? And if your using the internet to get here to find out whos winning u can just go to some sports website and look for the scores. Like ESPN or NBA.com.

[fartman23]

The Heat lead the series 3-2 now. Why arent u watching the Finals if u want to know whos winning so bad? And if your using the internet to get here to find out whos winning u can just go to some sports website and look for the scores. Like ESPN or NBA.com.
Well, that's what forums are for, too, right? Friendly helping out? Anyway, yes, Heat 3-2, Dwayne Wade has been incredible, and Mark Cuban made a horse's patootie out of himself in interviews after Game 5. Although I suppose from the perspective of a Mavs fan (or owner), I might be pretty peeved about that last foul call. But here's a question for y'all...why are we still interviewing Mark Cuban? Does anyone think he actually adds insight? Let's face it...any reporter going to a Mark Cuban press conference is just waiting for the dude to say something retarded.

--FM23

[pholmeskc31]

Yea forums are for helping out but if im gonna need to check a score im gonna go to a sports website to make sure im getting the right score.

[Junkboxy]

So what is Cuban/Johnson/Mavs complaining about now? I still didn't get that whole timeout thing straight at the end of game 5.

I would really like to see Shaq go after a loose ball and land on top of Cuban in the $$$ seats. That would be beautiful.

[pholmeskc31]

So what is Cuban/Johnson/Mavs complaining about now? I still didn't get that whole timeout thing straight at the end of game 5.

I would really like to see Shaq go after a loose ball and land on top of Cuban in the $$$ seats. That would be beautiful.
Yep that would be nice. Hes a great owner and a good dude but he is so damn annoying and they need to keep the camera off him. We dont care about the crowd we care about the game.

[sandler]

im not really a mavs fan, but i think the last foul call was somewhat unfair, especially during that situation. its like, the referee was acting god. i remember some sort of play like that in the detroit and cavs series when rip had a shot but was fouled but no foul was call and detroit lost. even though i was so disappointed since im a detroit fan, i figured it was ok not to call that foul since i didnt want the game to be decided by a ref's call thats quite unclear.

just my 2 cents.

[fartman23]

im not really a mavs fan, but i think the last foul call was somewhat unfair, especially during that situation. its like, the referee was acting god. i remember some sort of play like that in the detroit and cavs series when rip had a shot but was fouled but no foul was call and detroit lost. even though i was so disappointed since im a detroit fan, i figured it was ok not to call that foul since i didnt want the game to be decided by a ref's call thats quite unclear.

just my 2 cents.
And I think it's a very valid two cents. You don't want the refs deciding a game on a ticky-tack foul. The thing is: they called the foul on Nowitzki, and what Nowitzki did was kind of just slap a little bit, and clearly didn't make hard, shot-altering contact. I agree: it didn't really seem like a "he-murdered-me" kind of foul, and that's the only thing you should really call at the end of a game.

Funny, I think people are taking a little less pride in being a "Nowitz-ness" right about now.

--FM23

[PhoeniX27J]

The Heat lead the series 3-2 now. Why arent u watching the Finals if u want to know whos winning so bad? And if your using the internet to get here to find out whos winning u can just go to some sports website and look for the scores. Like ESPN or NBA.com.


I wish I could watch...unfortunely I can't watch TV since atm I don't have cable...Otherwise I would...I can't even watch the Worldcup...:(

[PhoeniX27J]

The Heat lead the series 3-2 now. Why arent u watching the Finals if u want to know whos winning so bad? And if your using the internet to get here to find out whos winning u can just go to some sports website and look for the scores. Like ESPN or NBA.com.


I wish I could watch...unfortunely I can't watch TV since atm I don't have cable...Otherwise I would...I can't even watch the Worldcup...:(

BTW. I hope the MAVS win...Shaq has won enough...

[fartman23]

I think Dallas wins tonight. In fact, I think they blow them out. Game 7, though, I'm not so sure about.

Somebody please shut up Mark Cuban.

--FM23

[bigusdickus]

I think Dallas wins tonight, too. I just can't imagine Miami winning four straight games in this series.

[KanMan]

I want Miami to win it, But like Langdon said. Its unlikey for them to win 4 straight and plus Stackhouse is back so expect something huge from him. The first two games in Dallas were double digit wins and Wade isn't very good on the road. Suprised he was getting comparrisons to MJ on SportCenter today.

[pholmeskc31]

Im also rooting for Miami. The Heat got something to prove since they havent won in Dallas in six games. But i think Dallas will win though.

[dmavsfan41]

Man. Dallas ... please don't lose! :(

[dmavsfan41]

It's over for Dallas :(

[pholmeskc31]

It's over for Dallas :(
I hope your right.

[pholmeskc31]

Alright Heat just won the NBA Finals in 6! Heat won 4 straight. The experts dont know what the hell they are talking about. I seriously thought Dallas would win tonight and force a game 7 but im glad they blew it.

[durcam]

The Mavs and Heat can take a few "digs" I think , I'm talking about personal attacks over sumn' that should be fun , Heat in 6 , I read sumn' on ESPN that said Dirk had gotten "tough" hahahahaha right........:004:

2 things come from Miami , Thugs n' Juggs , and dem Heat sure don't look like no Juggs to me hahahahaha..........:004:

Go Heat!!!

Told you so..........:D

[pholmeskc31]

Told you so..........:D
Nice call for the Heat in 6. I had them in 7. I cant believe some people thought the Mavs would take this in 5.

[pholmeskc31]

The crowd is just booing the shit out of Miami, and i think its pretty funny. Wonder how Mark Cubans taking it.:p :D

[dmavsfan41]

Good job Haslem
Good job Payton
Good job Mourning
Good job Wade, it's not your fault the refs were bad
Good job Posey, laying out Hinrich in round 1 is still totally lame though

[dmavsfan41]

Nice call for the Heat in 6. I had them in 7. I cant believe some people thought the Mavs would take this in 5.

I wish the Heat would have lost just to spite your rubbing an innocent prediction in my face repeatedly like that. It's one thing to take a cute jab at someone for being wrong, but you're just acting as immature as a third grader or a pot smoker, or both. I mean, do I sit here saying "How come the Chiefs didn't make the playoffs? What losers!" No, I don't.

[pholmeskc31]

I hate how a lot of people blame the refs, when the players fuck up themselves by missing free throws and open jumpers. Refs make bad calls in every sport, no way getting around it.

[pholmeskc31]

I wish the Heat would have lost just to spite your rubbing an innocent prediction in my face repeatedly like that. It's one thing to take a cute jab at someone for being wrong, but you're just acting as immature as a third grader or a pot smoker, or both. I mean, do I sit here saying "How come the Chiefs didn't make the playoffs? What losers!" No, I don't.
Im not trying to rub it in your face. Some of my friends, family and know those so called experts thought the Mavs were gonna beat the Heat in 5 or 6. Some even thought the Mavs would sweep the Heat. Sorry if i offended u but people were talking about Dallas like they were way superior to the Heat. If u wanted to talk shit about the Chiefs i wouldnt give a flying fuck and u know why cause u can say what the fuck u want. Mavs are a great team and they'll be back and i think next time they are i think they'll win it. If your a sports fan u gotta expect people to talk shit about some teams.

[Junkboxy]

I want to make one observation:
Dirk Nowitzki obviously believes he's joined the Immunity Club.

Did anybody take a close look at the first play of the 4th QTR?
Avery Johnson called Dirk's number. Dirk had the ball and drove to the hole. Shaq stepped outside the "charge arch" and stood there straight-up. Dirk drove into him and put up the shot. No call was made, but that was the textbook definition of a charge. No commentary was made by the announcers on that aspect of the play, either. Switch those two around, and Dirk (or any other NBA player for that matter) goes flailing to the deck like a European soccer player making sure to bring attention to a small amount of Shaqian contact.

Sometimes you have to look close at the game to notice things like that. Shaq doesn't whinily bring attention to call/no-call plays the way the Nowitzkis, Duncans, Rasheeds, et al do. That's what I like about Shaq, he takes it like a dude.

And Wade WAS fouled - not ONCE but TWICE - on that drive at the end of Game 5. Before the tic-tac thing on Dirk, one of the guards got him, I think it was Devin Harris. Refs made the right call, but gave the foul to the wrong guy. No injustice there.

[fartman23]

A great series...peace and love, people. Don't hate. Not even Dallas is making the argument that the Heat weren't the better team in this series. I count myself among the fooled...I thought (and posted) that the Mavs would win in a blowout tonight, and they could have, considering they led by double-digits twice, but the fact that they didn't just shows that Miami had a bit more this year..... Special condolences to dmavsfan41, who is a really good poster.

--FM23

[durcam]

A great series...peace and love, people. Don't hate. Not even Dallas is making the argument that the Heat weren't the better team in this series. I count myself among the fooled...I thought (and posted) that the Mavs would win in a blowout tonight, and they could have, considering they led by double-digits twice, but the fact that they didn't just shows that Miami had a bit more this year..... Special condolences to dmavsfan41, who is a really good poster.

--FM23

Well said , very attached fan , congrats young Mavs , hang in there , your time will come.............:)

[dmavsfan41]

Good read: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/060620

From Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Cuban):
He deserves a title as much as any other owner in the league. Rumor says that he was robbed of a championship in 2006 because of David Stern's dislike of him.

lol

[pholmeskc31]

The Mavs wiil make it back and at least win a title here soon. They got a great team with young players and a superstar they can build around.

[jdrock24]

I haven't posted in here since I predicted the Heat would win in six before the series started. Anyway, I think that the Heat deserved to win. What can you say about Wade that hasn't already been said? And do you think Shaq has called up the Lakers and rubbed it in their face yet?

[fartman23]

The Mavs wiil make it back and at least win a title here soon. They got a great team with young players and a superstar they can build around.
Also from that Wikipedia (or should I say "Wikifraudia") entry:

"The Fountainhead was incredibly motivating to me. It encouraged me to think as an individual, take risks to reach my goals, and responsibility for my successes and failures. I loved it. I don't know how many times I have read it, but it got to a point where I had to stop because I would get too fired up."

Now, I don't mean to trash anyone who considers Ayn Rand to be their guiding light, but IMO this "logical positivism" stuff tends to attract immature minds who need structure to make it through the day. Besides which, man, "The Fountainhead" is just turgid and unreadable. Unsurprising that Cuban, one of the most immature men to needlessly be interviewed on TV over and over again, would be a Rand-head. He should really get together with Tom Cruise.

--FM23

[durcam]

[QUOTE He should really get together with Tom Cruise.

--FM23[/QUOTE]

Are you saying he's a homo + a damn jackass ? hahahaha I was trying to be polite but the Mavs and all the Western teams suck with their sissy ball, nice in the reg season to watch :rolleyes: I guess, but that shit is weak when the other team decide's to play Eastern style on their ass , whiny bunch of lewzers and their no class fans , the one's at the game anyway, LEEEEEEWZERS hahahahahaha........:D

[durcam]

but you're just acting as immature as a third grader or a pot smoker, or both. .

Maybe them mofos should have shared a damn bowl before the game , Leeeeewzers hahahahahahaha

[Melo]

No matter how you slice and dice it.... The Heat are worthy champs and Dwayne Wade is the best player on the planet!!!

[dmavsfan41]

The Heat are an average collection of players who were led to a title by a decent player and a great player who the NBA is clearly intent on building into the next Michael Jordan. Their style isn't fun to watch. You know, it's too bad the Suns didn't make it to the finals. They would have taken the Heat in 4 I bet you. Wade wouldn't have gotten near that many foul shots because Phoenix would have let him have a layup and then gone down and one upped them with a 3.

Man, Dallas just shot poorly all series. They would have won if they could have made anything resembling a decent percentage of their shots, but they didn't.

Detroit will regroup next year and make sure the Heat don't get back to the finals. Phoenix will get Amare back and make sure the Pistons don't win it all.

[durcam]

The Heat are an average collection of players who were led to a title by a decent player and a great player who the NBA is clearly intent on building into the next Michael Jordan. Their style isn't fun to watch. You know, it's too bad the Suns didn't make it to the finals. They would have taken the Heat in 4 I bet you. Wade wouldn't have gotten near that many foul shots because Phoenix would have let him have a layup and then gone down and one upped them with a 3.

Man, Dallas just shot poorly all series. They would have won if they could have made anything resembling a decent percentage of their shots, but they didn't.

Detroit will regroup next year and make sure the Heat don't get back to the finals. Phoenix will get Amare back and make sure the Pistons don't win it all.

WTF!!!

Dream , dream , dream , all I do is dream.........:D

[allegro8]

Both teams are good, or else they never would have advanced to the finals. It all boiled down to desire; Miami wanted it more, as evidenced by their bench players, especially Mourning, who "left it out on the floor" as if there was no tomorrow. Dallas should be congratulated. They'll be back, and hopefully, have learned a thing or two about how to finish tight games against a relentless opponent.

[squonk]

Wade had a tremendous series, Miami has to congrat this player for his performance. Most of the championship was because of him.

[bigusdickus]

And Wade WAS fouled - not ONCE but TWICE - on that drive at the end of Game 5. Before the tic-tac thing on Dirk, one of the guards got him, I think it was Devin Harris. Refs made the right call, but gave the foul to the wrong guy. No injustice there.Injustice, indeed! The picture of Harris' arm on Wade's was taken after the whistle blew. Dirk never touched Wade during that play; so why was Dirk charged with the foul? It was a hedious call by the ref, who by the way was 40 feet away blowing his whistle. It was a call that he clearly had no business of making.

[Junkboxy]

I went looking for stills or videos of that last drive by Wade in Game 5. I could only find a grainy YouTube vid that had the long shot from the half-court angle, not the under the basket replay. Anyways, I remember when watching it live, I called it out to the living room crowd 'foul on Devin Harris.' Then Breen/Brown announced the call was made on Dirk.

Looks like every sports columnist out there thinks there was no contact by Dirk. I have to backtrack on that bit. And, the percieved/minimal/no-harm-no-foul/actual-foul/whatever by Devin Harris shouldn't have mattered.. b/c

..that was a backcourt violation, Cuban was right:
<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2qDdzU8Dxj4"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2qDdzU8Dxj4" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

Sorry Mavericks.
Judge Junkboxy renders decision:
Yous gots'd hosed

Good read: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/060620


I read that the other night Dmav. It was a good read. He is right about Gary Payton. Good for Zo, a real workhorse ballplayer, but GP? He's right about us being surprised when GP does something good. I think every jumper is going to miss - he has no jump shot. He flips free throws up there like he doesn't care. (At least Shaq takes his time with a brick). He likes to do "the bump" against the guy guarding him while dribbling at point - an obvious easy O-foul call for the ref and us too. Technical foul for jabbering the referee. Missing a teammates pass because.. he was busy jabbering with the referee. Enuf about GP.

[bigusdickus]

Yeah, the Bill Simmons column was right on. The refs were terrible in the playoffs and especially the finals. No matter. The Mavs still had their chances to win despite the very poor officiating. No excuses. D-Wade was very Jordanesque during the series, and he is the only reason why Miami is the champ right now.

Man. Four straight games. :(

[fartman23]

I went looking for stills or videos of that last drive by Wade in Game 5. I could only find a grainy YouTube vid that had the long shot from the half-court angle, not the under the basket replay. Anyways, I remember when watching it live, I called it out to the living room crowd 'foul on Devin Harris.' Then Breen/Brown announced the call was made on Dirk.

Looks like every sports columnist out there thinks there was no contact by Dirk. I have to backtrack on that bit. And, the percieved/minimal/no-harm-no-foul/actual-foul/whatever by Devin Harris shouldn't have mattered.. b/c

..that was a backcourt violation, Cuban was right:
<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2qDdzU8Dxj4"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2qDdzU8Dxj4" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

Sorry Mavericks.
Judge Junkboxy renders decision:
Yous gots'd hosed



I read that the other night Dmav. It was a good read. He is right about Gary Payton. Good for Zo, a real workhorse ballplayer, but GP? He's right about us being surprised when GP does something good. I think every jumper is going to miss - he has no jump shot. He flips free throws up there like he doesn't care. (At least Shaq takes his time with a brick). He likes to do "the bump" against the guy guarding him while dribbling at point - an obvious easy O-foul call for the ref and us too. Technical foul for jabbering the referee. Missing a teammates pass because.. he was busy jabbering with the referee. Enuf about GP.
It's funny...one of the primary reasons I rooted against the Lakers that last Shaq/Kobe year was I can't stand Payton, either. Somehow he bothered me less this time around. But of course, you're right: every time they cut to Payton running his yap it really did make me want to throw something through the TV.

--FM23

[pholmeskc31]

Yeah, the Bill Simmons column was right on. The refs were terrible in the playoffs and especially the finals. No matter. The Mavs still had their chances to win despite the very poor officiating. No excuses. D-Wade was very Jordanesque during the series, and he is the only reason why Miami is the champ right now.

Man. Four straight games. :(
Wade is the main reason they won but he didnt score all them points and play every minute of the game. Their role players stepped up also.

[Junkboxy]

Their role players stepped up also.
Of those, I think some extra cred should go to Alonzo, Posey, and probably most unsung/underrated of them all - Udonis Haslem. After going down hard and hurting his shoulder, his jump shot was AWOL until he knocked down a few in game 6. But he perservered through that to be the main guy spying offensive scoring machine Dirk Nowitzki, and he did as much as you could ask for in that.

[MichaelJordan]

Bulls got Aldridge!!! Yayy!!!! :010:



Who will be that 1st overall pick, Darko or Dirk? :lol:

[pholmeskc31]

This draft was weak. My team Orlando got Reddick and i fuckin hate Duke and their players except Elton Brand. I dont like them picking Reddick cause of the issues with his back. Orlando had a great player with back problems called McGrady and look how hes doing in Houston hes always hurt. Im so pissed they passed up Marcus Williams from UConn, what a bunch of bastards.

[fartman23]

Bulls got Aldridge!!! Yayy!!!! :010:



Who will be that 1st overall pick, Darko or Dirk? :lol:
Bulls *traded* Aldridge the moment they took him. They got Tyrus Thomas.

--FM23

[fartman23]

This draft was weak. My team Orlando got Reddick and i fuckin hate Duke and their players except Elton Brand. I dont like them picking Reddick cause of the issues with his back. Orlando had a great player with back problems called McGrady and look how hes doing in Houston hes always hurt. Im so pissed they passed up Marcus Williams from UConn, what a bunch of bastards.
You didn't really want Marcus Williams...he's got too much baggage, and you've got Jameer Nelson and Carlos Arroyo. I can't make you love Reddick, but the Magic didn't need a point man....

--FM23

[pholmeskc31]

You didn't really want Marcus Williams...he's got too much baggage, and you've got Jameer Nelson and Carlos Arroyo. I can't make you love Reddick, but the Magic didn't need a point man....

--FM23
I heard all that shit about Williams already. I believe that sometimes u need to take the best player left in the draft and i think he was a steal for the Nets. Shit they could of picked Carney who was a small foward. The Magic dont need another guy with back problems either like McGrady was for them. If hes healthy he'll help out big time for Howard. I wont ever like Reddick but if helps my team out i'll be happy. I hated Rodman but if my team would of had him in his prime i would love it, just not him.

[jjkmk1]

I'm very happy with what the Cavs did. Got two guards that can shoot and play D.

[fartman23]

I heard all that shit about Williams already. I believe that sometimes u need to take the best player left in the draft and i think he was a steal for the Nets. Shit they could of picked Carney who was a small foward. The Magic dont need another guy with back problems either like McGrady was for them. If hes healthy he'll help out big time for Howard. I wont ever like Reddick but if helps my team out i'll be happy. I hated Rodman but if my team would of had him in his prime i would love it, just not him.
Well, I think of Orlando had drafted a point guard, it would've been a major upset, and as for Carney, all the baggage someone like Rudy Gay has, Carney has just as much...inconsistent, very talented but doesn't get the most out of his ability, seems unfocused, etc. I think you're making a great point about Redick's back...especially given the wait you guys have had to get poor Grant Hill healthy (hey, hey, now he's supposed to be healthy after his sports hernia!). I do think the thing the Magic needed most was someone who could knock down a jumper...imagine how good Adam Morrison would look alongside Dwight Howard......

[KanMan]

Lakers got Farmar, he should have been in the top 20 or so but everyone got the big men first. Portland was going crazy and I really dont like how they traded Telefair.

[pholmeskc31]

Well, I think of Orlando had drafted a point guard, it would've been a major upset, and as for Carney, all the baggage someone like Rudy Gay has, Carney has just as much...inconsistent, very talented but doesn't get the most out of his ability, seems unfocused, etc. I think you're making a great point about Redick's back...especially given the wait you guys have had to get poor Grant Hill healthy (hey, hey, now he's supposed to be healthy after his sports hernia!). I do think the thing the Magic needed most was someone who could knock down a jumper...imagine how good Adam Morrison would look alongside Dwight Howard......
If Gay would of slipped to eleven the Magic were gonna take him. U cant always worry about "baggage" that a player had problems in the past. Everybody has had problems in the past some are just known publicly and some are not. If your gonna worry about that 24/7 then you'll just end up another crappy GM like Thomas is for the Knicks. Thats what the draft is all about improving your team and taking risks. Nobody knows whos gonna be a great player when they are drafted. And what you said about some college players being inconsistent, of course they are their still one level down and then they have to see how good they really are if they make it to the pros, there not even in their prime yet so ya gotta expect even the best college players to be inconsistent.

[fartman23]

Yes, Gay would've been an easy pick, but Carney isn't as talented as Gay. As for whether perceived character counts, ask Marcus Williams. Kid stole laptops, which yadda yadda yadda, been beaten to death, but he also showed up at the draft camps *fat* (not phat), which, as was the case with LenDale White in football, showed something about the kid's fire. Gay has top-three talent, and in February, pretty much everyone in the NBA said he'd be a lock as the #1 overall if he came out early, but people watched him during the NCAAs, and he dogged it, there's no way around it. So he gets drafted at #8, and he gets *traded*. And I don't agree that you have to expect the best college players to be inconsistent...Redick wasn't inconsistent, Morrison wasn't inconsistent. Naturally, you're right, you can't expect everyone (especially big men who haven't grown into their bodies) to be "NBA-ready," but it helps when you see a fire in their eyes. I think you'll like Redick, though I'm ready to be proven wrong....

--FM23

[fartman23]

And trust me, I am *no* Duke fan. :-)

--FM23

[pholmeskc31]

Yes, Gay would've been an easy pick, but Carney isn't as talented as Gay. As for whether perceived character counts, ask Marcus Williams. Kid stole laptops, which yadda yadda yadda, been beaten to death, but he also showed up at the draft camps *fat* (not phat), which, as was the case with LenDale White in football, showed something about the kid's fire. Gay has top-three talent, and in February, pretty much everyone in the NBA said he'd be a lock as the #1 overall if he came out early, but people watched him during the NCAAs, and he dogged it, there's no way around it. So he gets drafted at #8, and he gets *traded*. And I don't agree that you have to expect the best college players to be inconsistent...Redick wasn't inconsistent, Morrison wasn't inconsistent. Naturally, you're right, you can't expect everyone (especially big men who haven't grown into their bodies) to be "NBA-ready," but it helps when you see a fire in their eyes. I think you'll like Redick, though I'm ready to be proven wrong....

--FM23
Yea i'll like it if Reddick is good for them but im not gonna like him. Reddick did have a little slump there for a bit last season. It just didnt seem like it cause everybody was talking about how great he was, but he did have a slump and Morrison had a few bad games also.

[MichaelJordan]

Bulls *traded* Aldridge the moment they took him. They got Tyrus Thomas.

--FM23


Man, I read it wrong! :(


I was so excited when i read that they took Aldridge with the pick I must have pretty much stoppped paying attention to the yahoo sports page :lol:


Tyrus is really good I hear as well. But Chicago needs a big man who is gonna be a star, they should of never traded Brand away. :(

[pholmeskc31]

Man, I read it wrong! :(


I was so excited when i read that they took Aldridge with the pick I must have pretty much stoppped paying attention to the yahoo sports page :lol:


Tyrus is really good I hear as well. But Chicago needs a big man who is gonna be a star, they should of never traded Brand away. :(
Im not a Bulls fan but i wouldnt of traded Brand away. I was shocked when they did, that was stupid of them.

[MichaelJordan]

Ben Wallace has agreed to a contract with the Bulls! :064:


Hopefully everything stays put until july 12th so he can sign!!


JOOOOYYYYYYYY!!!! :010:

[pholmeskc31]

Hes not gonna get them to the finals though.

[fartman23]

He'll sign, and it's a really nice signing. He can mentor Tyrus Thomas, bring an interior defensive presence, and maybe even allow Chicago to get out from under the albatross that is Tyson Chandler. They're a definite threat in the East now...but they need one more scorer, or they need Ben Gordon to get less streaky. Still, you have to love the move.

--FM23

[fartman23]

Im not a Bulls fan but i wouldnt of traded Brand away. I was shocked when they did, that was stupid of them.
No question, the Brand deal was horrible. But truth be told, I like Tyrus Thomas more than Aldridge. I *am* a Longhorns fan, and Aldridge was maddening at times. He certainly has a better and more polished post-up game than Thomas likely ever will, but he's also less athletic and more "stoppable" by a good defensive player. Heck, I remember the Elite Eight game, Texas v. LSU, when Thomas (and Baby Shaq) absolutely stuff Aldridge. He did nothing all night. In the end, I'd rather have had Thomas...much higher up-side, a physical freak with a huge wingspan. I like the deal, and I really like what the Bulls have done. (Now trade Tyson Chandler!)

--FM23

[pholmeskc31]

No question, the Brand deal was horrible. But truth be told, I like Tyrus Thomas more than Aldridge. I *am* a Longhorns fan, and Aldridge was maddening at times. He certainly has a better and more polished post-up game than Thomas likely ever will, but he's also less athletic and more "stoppable" by a good defensive player. Heck, I remember the Elite Eight game, Texas v. LSU, when Thomas (and Baby Shaq) absolutely stuff Aldridge. He did nothing all night. In the end, I'd rather have had Thomas...much higher up-side, a physical freak with a huge wingspan. I like the deal, and I really like what the Bulls have done. (Now trade Tyson Chandler!)

--FM23
they already traded Chandler before u made that comment.

[pholmeskc31]

James hasnt said nothin to the Cavs about that extension they are offering him. I'll laugh if he just plays through this season and then he'll be a free agent and walk. But i think hes just making em sweat.

[fartman23]

James hasnt said nothin to the Cavs about that extension they are offering him. I'll laugh if he just plays through this season and then he'll be a free agent and walk. But i think hes just making em sweat.
Yeah, I agree...I'm almost certainly he'll sign with Cleveland...he simply wants as much "hand" in choosing future teammates as possible. He'll sign a max deal, and he'll get his Jordan-esque "say" in who else the Cavs go after. The league is far too invested in him in Cleveland at this point, and David Stern's comments the other day only back that up. I agree.

--FM23

[fartman23]

they already traded Chandler before u made that comment.
Actually, no they hadn't. I made that comment, and they announced the deal later that day.

--FM23

[psychoegg]

I used to like Wallace butt not any more. I'm no pistons fan in the least, but I mean... salaries are getting ridiculous.

[fartman23]

I used to like Wallace butt not any more. I'm no pistons fan in the least, but I mean... salaries are getting ridiculous.
Great point, psychoegg...in a way, I think the Pistons were smart not to bite at Wallace's contract demands. It hurts them in the short term, but how many times have contracts far outlived their players' usefulness? Wallace is making $60 million over four years, and he'll be 32 by the time the contract starts. Which means he'll be nearly 37 by the time the contract ends, making $15 mil per. Probably really boosts the Bulls in the short term, but in a few years, that contract could be an albatross. Still and all, the Bulls are better for it next year.

--FM23

[pholmeskc31]

I used to like Wallace butt not any more. I'm no pistons fan in the least, but I mean... salaries are getting ridiculous.
I wouldnt hate Wallace just cause he took more money. A lot of players leaves their old teams for more money and everybody that gets paid is overpaid. I could see how u could like him less if he left your team but not fully hate him.

[johndevon]

i am glad that miami won they earned it

[johndevon]

shaq it the man

[sandler]

whos your team and who do you think is gonna win the title this year? im still rooting for detroit but when i watched a preseason game of theirs, it just didnt feel the same without big ben. he was the heart of detroit. hope the rest of the guys step up.

san antonio is always a contender and i think dallas is gonna have a hard time beating them this year.

[lets_procreate]

With the size in Indiana, Al Harrington isn't going to have as much impact stats-wise than he would have had he stayed in Atlanta. Indiana should be up there but there is a lack of "team" i feel. Phoenix are going ok in the pre-season but are a good chance to go far if they can stay healthy. Chicago are my sentimental favourites after destroying San Antonio just yesterday. Sleepers for the season are LA Clippers, Orlando Magic and Houston if they can stay healthy. Miami, Cavaliers, Wizards, and Dallas will all make the playoffs again but I don't think any of them will take the title.

[StormShadow]

I'm a die-hard Lakers fan, but they're far from contention for a world title in this "post-Shaq" era! They showed a little bit of progress by taking the Suns to 7 games in the playoffs last season. I'm just hoping that Kobe & Kids can stay competitive/exciting and maybe win between 40-50 games this season...that seems like just enough to get a playoff spot these days...

[gotti911]

Rockets are my team but they suck no chemistry and Yao Ming never improves, Steve Novak is the next best shooter in the league that guy is a sniper.

Boston Celtics will be one of the most exciting team to watch. Gerald Green is coming out this year like Vince Carter in his rookie year. You also got Sebastian Telfair who will do better. Paul Pierce is boring in my opinion.

Why did Kobe change his number to 24?

Lebron James is the most exciting player.

[darklighter1]

The Celtics are my team thanks for the shout out Gotti, they are LOADED with young talent but it takes more vetrans to win inthe NBA. So they'll be a trip to watch but they won't be any titles around here for a loooooong while. I think the Nets or the Bulls will come out of the East on top and the Spurs in the West. With the Spurs winning it all again.

[squonk]

Spurrs are always cadidates for the finals and I also think that Chicago is goingo to be a hard team to beat.

[StormShadow]

Why did Kobe change his number to 24?

24 was the jersey number that Kobe wore during his high school basketball years.

[durcam]

Can you feel the HEAT down in your soul ? Chicago , Indiana , Detroit , all pretenders , only one defending champ :)

[koldkoala]

Bulls will win it! I hope...

[sandler]

im actually torn between detroit and chicago.

[StormShadow]

It'll be interesting to see if the Pistons come out with the swagger they had after winning their championship, especially without Big Ben! Chicago's gonna be one of those dark horse/sleeper teams with the young talent they've got (especially Kirk Hinrich & Ben Gordon)

[gotti911]

24 was the jersey number that Kobe wore during his high school basketball years.

why the change of heart. It's not like its gonna make him play better??? is it

[darklighter1]

im actually torn between detroit and chicago.

Nah I think Detroit's best days are behind them but Chicago will be a force. Miami is of course the Champs but don't know if they can put on a strong push like they did at the end of last season.

[sandler]

Nah I think Detroit's best days are behind them but Chicago will be a force. Miami is of course the Champs but don't know if they can put on a strong push like they did at the end of last season.

actually, im torn who im gonna root for, thats what i meant :) big ben is my fave player but detroit is my fave team :) i still think detroit can be a dark horse still. they still do have 3 all stars in their starting line-up and tay prince plays like an all star himself so they'll do just fine. but of course the big ben factor will be greatly missed.

[sandler]

saw the season opener between the bulls and the heat. man, the heat got murdered pretty bad! looks like the bulls are dead serious this year in making a title run. im sure the heat will bounce back tho!

[westside08]

Boston is loaded. They also have some young talent in Delonte West and Allan Ray both out of good college basketball programs in Philly.

The Philadelphia Sixers aren't doing nearly as bad as i thought they would be, although i see they are having a problem rebounding which is essential in the game

[sandler]

ive seen a couple of detroit games, and man o man, do they miss big ben! its like a team thats lost. i just dont see the fire in their eyes when they play anymore! which is sad! the bulls arent doing that well either. i think its gonna take a lot more games for them to adjust.

[dwaynewade]

Miami... because Riley's gonna make the team win and Wade's the new Show Time!

[Hard Drive]

NBA referee Joey Crawford was suspended indefinitely by commissioner David Stern on Tuesday for his conduct toward Tim Duncan, who contends the official challenged him to a fight.

Tim Duncan being ejected
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Post-game interview with Tim Duncan
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[TheNewNo.2]

I don't care if Crawford's a good ref or not, if he's throwing players out of the game for laughing at a call on the bench, he should be fired. People don't pay to watch some thin-skinned asshole ref toss the best player in the NBA, they pay to see Duncan play, and throwing him out cost the Spurs that game and playoff positioning. I'm so freaking sick of officials who think they're part of the show. If a player gets in his face or really says something heinous, then T him up, but otherwise, just grow thicker skin and let the players decide the game instead of the ref's ego deciding it.

[jdrock24]

Yeah. I don't know if Crawford should be fired first thing. I think he should be given the option to resign, and if he doesn't take it, then fire him.

[Creamy Goodness]

wtf is that?
not cool when officiating is a factor in deciding the outcome of a game

[gotti911]

giving Tim Duncan 2 T's from the bench is unacceptable

[Luggy]

the ref's in most sports are beginning to think that they are irreplaceable...maybe they should take a look back into history and see how wrong they are.

[durcam]

"You wanna fight"? hahahaha , sometimes I wanna just punch ol' Timmay too , he bugs the crap outta me :):)

[carlo_scute]

let the players play!

[darklighter1]

Congrats to any Portland or Seattle fans in here but I really think the NBA lottery sucks Ron Jeremy balls. And I'm not saying that because the Celtics took a royal screwing last night either. I've been saying it for along time.....since the Celtics took a screwing back in '97 and missed out on Duncan to be precise. It just makes it impossible for the absolute worst teams in the league to rebuild. Plus the way the salary cap works there can never be any decent trades either. I've been watching my team chase it's tail for 20+ years now and it BLOWS! It's supposed to prevent teams from tanking their seasons but teams like Memphis, Milwaukee, and Boston all tanked anyway for the chance at more ping pong combos. So what is it stopping? The best teams still go on to the playoffs and the worst don't so who cares right? Ahhh I feel like I was dumped last night. Sooooo disappointed all day today. To sum up it sucks and blows. Rats! :mad:

[Luggy]

im a piston fan so the draft doesnt really affect me that much anymore..but i agree something needs to be done...when the 3 worst teams dont get any of the top 3 pics...something is wrong.

[darklighter1]

Thank you Lug!! Yeah and you definitely don't have to worry about it. Things are lookin good in Motown! :015:

[CFact]

Time for Celtic Fans to stop talking about Tim Duncan. I heard a couple bring up Len Bias' name the other day. Enough already. Now they can look at Ye, Jeff Green or Corey Brewer. Doc & Danny will spend a lot of time looking at tape and the crews at WEEI and WSKO will spend more time on it as the draft approaches.

[darklighter1]

Time for Celtic Fans to stop talking about Tim Duncan. I heard a couple bring up Len Bias' name the other day. Enough already. Now they can look at Ye, Jeff Green or Corey Brewer. Doc & Danny will spend a lot of time looking at tape and the crews at WEEI and WSKO will spend more time on it as the draft approaches.

Ahh a fellow Bostonian perhaps? I think you meant WRKO but actually they're being broadcast exclusively On WEEI next season so no more 'RKO Celtic talk. And yeah there was a lot of talk about Len Bias last week. It seems when he died he fell on the Leprechaun too thereby bringing us the CURSE OF THE BIASBINO. :p

[Junkboxy]

The NBA used to be big. The NBA used to be real.

No more on either account.

So LeBron went off Thursday night lifting his team to an exciting road win versus the Pistons. Did I see it? No...I didn't even know the game was televised. I was watching So You Think You're Smarter Than A Fifth Grader on Fox. ABC, which once used to bill itself as the sports network amongst the networks, had the game on some cable channel. TV execs like to pretend it aint so...., but it IS so: Cable isn't network TV.


The other problem with the league is the Spurs. The way they let Ginobli get away with flopping and carrying is a joke. Tim Duncan has grown so accustomed to the referees calling a foul on the other guy when he wheels into him, he offers up a priveleged-boy-I-cant-believe-they-called-it-on-me smirk when it actually is called on him. Bruce Bowen, heady cheap shot artist. Robert Horry, heady cheap shot artist. (On one positive Spur note: Bouquet to Tony Parker -- He started off as a talent and has gotten better).

I didn't see the game (see first gripe above), but in game 4 in Utah, Ginobli pulled off his European-soccer-player-style-flop-diva act to the nth degree. Blog entries galore were made over that one. One that I found read: "This is what passes for basketball these days? Disgusting." Exactly.

So long NBA, you are second banana to the NCAA now :015:

[darklighter1]

I don't know JB. Alot of the stuff you said is definitely true but it's tough to put the games on network TV because there are so many playoff teams and games, they kinda have to wait for the Finals only to broadcast. As for the conduct of the Spurs yeah it's disheartening a great team like they are has to resort to these tactics but remember the Pistons of the late 80's and early 90's? They were billed as the "bad boys" back then and did the same or worse, so it all goes around in cycles.

[Creamy Goodness]

i thought jb was gonna talk about the isolation plays, poor perimeter shooting or the pro-hops (anywhere else in the basketball world traveling violations)

[darklighter1]

i thought jb was gonna talk about the isolation plays, poor perimeter shooting or the pro-hops (anywhere else in the basketball world traveling violations)

Touche!

[Junkboxy]

Were those "Bad Boys" Pistons ever as bad as the Riley-era Knicks? I never thought so. But yeah, they did have Laimbeer and Thomas, two of the whiniest whiners ever.

As far as the TV thing, I guess that's just the way it goes. I think Eastern Conference Finals and Western Conference Finals ought to get the big stage, but no. Shit, I thought Game 6 of Cleveland-Detroit was going to be on ABC today since its Saturday.....but not even on the weekends apparently. I can quasi-semi-understand that they prefer Grey's Anatomy to Cleveland-Detroit Game 5, but they've got on a freakin infomercial for Yet Another Fucking Ab Device on the ABC channel here during Game 6. Well screw you ABC..I'll just go get my update on C-B-S sports dot com. Uh its 48-48 at halftime, and there's been a technical issue with the scoreboard.

Creamy yer right about the traveling thing. I hate the pro-dribble a.k.a. palming the ball. Kobe Bryant and Manu Ginobili are the worst offenders that leap to mind there.

[TheNewNo.2]

Hey, at least the NBA is still doing better than the NHL. The Stanley Cup Finals aren't even on ESPN or TNT, let alone a major network, they're on Versus, a cable channel I hardly ever remember I even get. That league has fallen so far out of the public consciousness, it isn't even funny.

As for the Bad Boys, they were every bit as dirty as Riley's Knicks. Isaiah Thomas was one of the NBA's all-time cheap-shot artists, Laimbeer was as dirty as anybody who ever played, and don't forget Rodman and Rick Mahorn, the chief goon of all. The main difference between them and the Knicks of the 90s was that the Pistons back then actually won championships and had enough talent to win without bogging games down in defensive 75-70 snoozefests. The Knicks didn't have much beyond muscle, so they just slowed games down, played goonball and won as ugly as possible, a trend that rubbed off on the rest of the NBA and killed its product for a decade.

I think the NBA right now is as good as it's been since the early 90s (and no, I'm not just saying that because I'm from Cleveland and just watched the Cavs advance to the NBA Finals for the first time ever! Woohoo!!! :D ). Sure, some of the playoff games have been low-scoring and defense-minded, but five years ago, there sure weren't fun-to-watch teams like Phoenix, Dallas, and Golden State scoring a crapload of points every night out. I've been surprised about the conference finals not being shown on ABC too, but one thing to keep in mind is that the NBA's regular season presence is so much higher on cable tv rather than ABC that a lot of people might just assume that's where the games will still be shown in the playoffs. Plus, the landscape of tv has changed a hell of a lot over the last few years, with more and more high profile shows ending up on cable rather than free tv. And these days, virtually everybody has cable anyway, so it's not really like a large part of the population won't have access to the games.

As for the Spurs, I've actually always liked them because they play solid, team-first basketball, and because Tim Duncan is so fundamentally sound, but that might change once I start watching LeBron get mugged by Bruce Bowen and Ginobli flop like a fish out of water when somebody breathes on him. At least the Cavs have their own flop artist in Anderson Varejao to counteract Ginobli. :D I don't think the Cavs will beat San Antonio, but then again, I thought they didn't have a chance against Detroit, and LeBron is such a freak of nature to be doing what he's doing at 22 years old that who knows what will happen.

[darklighter1]

Congrats to your Cavs #2!! That'll be a cool Finals with arguably the two biggest draft pics of the last 15 years going against each other in James vs Duncan. And I forgot about the Knicks, they were dirty!

[Junkboxy]

Congrats to your Mavs #2!! You mean Cavs, dude, CAVS!

I think the NBA right now is as good as it's been since the early 90s
I think you are right, at least in terms of talent and excitement factor. That is why I lament the half-hearted coverage. David Stern letting ABC get the new contract was the worst thing to happen to the NBA since I began watching as a kid in the '80's. Look at Fox, it aired a "meaningless" regular season baseball game Saturday. On Sunday, there will be golf on at least CBS or NBC..maybe both. Today, ABC didn't even put the series-clinching win on the big stage. On a fuggin weekend even.

You can argue the nature of TV has changed, but one thing is unassailable. ABC is the worst sports network, period. Couldn't make Monday Night Football work? Why the hell not? Now NBC has Sunday Night Football working.. and versus tougher competition. Maybe ABC should've negotiated flexi-schedule years ago, yathinks?

And let's come 'round back to basketball. CBS makes a strong effort to air every damn second it can of the NCAA tournament. 1st round through the championship. Everyone I've talked to about the subject of televised basketball agrees with me: the college playoffs are presented so much better than the pros. If cable is now where pro basketball belongs, then why does ABC air the finals on their regular network?

[darklighter1]

WHOA!! :066: Sorry fellas! Must've been a Freudian slip! :035: Been rooting for the Mavs (after the Celts of course) for a few years now. CONGRATS TO THE CAVS!

[zbeast78]

unfortunately, i'm gonna have to agree with you on this one. the NBA really is boring as hell during the regular season. and even the playoffs this year has been a bit tiring as well. they stretch the damn playoffs out for 2 months, which doesn't help either. i think it'd be better if they cut out the 7th & 8th seeds (and gave the first 2 seeds a bye, a-la the NFL). but that alone wouldn't solve the NBA's problems. it didn't help me that the top 2 picks went to Western Conference teams. I live in DC, so i'm a bit tired of the West getting all the best players. We've really become the '90s AFC of basketball. oh well, go Wizards.

[darklighter1]

unfortunately, i'm gonna have to agree with you on this one. the NBA really is boring as hell during the regular season. and even the playoffs this year has been a bit tiring as well. they stretch the damn playoffs out for 2 months, which doesn't help either. i think it'd be better if they cut out the 7th & 8th seeds (and gave the first 2 seeds a bye, a-la the NFL). but that alone wouldn't solve the NBA's problems. it didn't help me that the top 2 picks went to Western Conference teams. I live in DC, so i'm a bit tired of the West getting all the best players. We've really become the '90s AFC of basketball. oh well, go Wizards.

Or the 00's version of the NFC. ;) But I agree I think the lottery should be done away with and there should only be 6 teams from each conference in the playoffs. It's too easy for bad teams to squeak in there. Even my Celts had they remained healthy might've made the 8th seed this year and they are still nowhere good enough to give the top seed a tussle. Golden State was more the exception than the rule. NHL should drop a few seeds too.

[zbeast78]

... now the western conference is going to be even more dominant for the next 10 years. we have NO quality big men in the east. none. sorry, a 53 year old Shaq doesn't count.

[darklighter1]

... now the western conference is going to be even more dominant for the next 10 years. we have NO quality big men in the east. none. sorry, a 53 year old Shaq doesn't count.

AGREED!!!! :mad:

[Echo]

Kidding.

I'd rather drink runny monkey diarhea that watch the NBA.

[nuckles]

Spurs Basketball= BORING!!!

[lets_procreate]

Well the Fuckers (Spurs) just beat the Cavaliers in Game 4 by 1 point. Tony Parker won Finals MVP. Now they're considered a "Dynasty". Whoopty-fucking-doo! It would have been nice to see LBJ win just one game against the Dirtiest Players in the league! Yes you read right.

Thus making it, "The Most Boring Finals Series EVER"! Blame San Antonio, just cos you can!

[durcam]

The Spurs and the NBA suck ass.........

[zebulon]

The Spurs and the NBA suck ass.........

That's probably because Tony Parker is French that you came to such a conclusion ! He would have been American you would have glorify him instead ! Am I wrong ?

[allegro8]

Man...talk about sour grapes! The Spurs won in workmanlike fashion, and still can't get any love? In this era of all flash and zero substance, one would think their victory would be respected and validate that NBA basketball (as a league) is still viable, instead of being driven by "personalities" and corporate glitz. I'm not a Spurs fan, but a diehard basketball fan who can appriciate a gritty team victory, so congrats SA. I'll give them their due.

[durcam]

That's probably because Tony Parker is French that you came to such a conclusion ! He would have been American you would have glorify him instead ! Am I wrong ?


Don't care if he's French , Armenian or Veitnamese , the Spurs/bores and the NBA still suck ass !!! I like the French by the way , well , kinda :p , got nothing against them . I'm glad He won the MVP , if he didn't , he might have "Head-butted" Lebron
hahahaha I'm so sorry , that was bad :D :D :D :D

[jdrock24]

Anyone else notice that there were tons of stories all around about how low the Stanley Cup and World Serie's ratings were and then there is little to nothing mentioning about how low the NBA finals were?

The reason is that the NBA finals were braodcast by ABC and they don't let negative stories about the NBA get out though their affiliate ESPN.

[fitfan]

I am no Phoenix Suns fan but they have a legitimate complaint this year about that fiasco with the Spurs at the end of game 4 of their series. That series would have probably gone to game 7 if both Stoudamire and Diaw were available for game 5. Phoenix with just a bit of luck could (and maybe should have) been holding the trophy last night.

[lets_procreate]

I am no Phoenix Suns fan but they have a legitimate complaint this year about that fiasco with the Spurs at the end of game 4 of their series. That series would have probably gone to game 7 if both Stoudamire and Diaw were available for game 5. Phoenix with just a bit of luck could (and maybe should have) been holding the trophy last night.

Agreed. Maybe we would have seen a more exciting playoff series.

[durcam]

The NBA has become too "Europeanised" for me , ( not that's a bad or good thing , just not my thing :) , no offence meant ) too many fouls called and too many travelling violations not , bunch of sissies running around in long shorts , they suck!!

[lets_procreate]

Confirmed Trades

Jason Richardson; 2007-08 2nd Round Draft Pick Jermareo Davidson to Charlotte Bobcats
2007-08 #8 Draft Pick Brandan Wright to Golden State

Ray Allen; 2007-08 #35 Draft Pick Glen Davis to Boston
Delonte West; Wally Szczerbiak;2007-08 #5 Draft Pick Jeff Green to Seatlle

Zach Randolph; Dan Dickau; Fred Jones to New York
Steve Francis; Channing Frye to Portland

Imagine Francis, Greg Oden, Frye, Brandon Roy and Darius Miles as the starting five. Ray Allen and Paul Pierce will be a good fit.

Round 1 picks

PICK TEAM PLAYER
1 Portland Greg Oden - C
2 Seattle Kevin Durant - SF
3 Atlanta Al Horford - PF
4 Memphis Mike Conley - PG
5 Boston
Traded to Seattle Jeff Green - SF
6 Milwaukee Yi Jianlian - PF
7 Minnesota Corey Brewer - SG
8 Charlotte
Traded to Golden State Brandan Wright - PF
9 Chicago
from New York Joakim Noah - PF
10 Sacramento Spencer Hawes - C
11 Atlanta
from Indiana Acie Law - PG
12 Philadelphia Thaddeus Young - SF
13 New Orleans Julian Wright - SF
14 Los Angeles Al Thornton - SF
15 Detroit
from Orlando Rodney Stuckey - SG
16 Washington Nick Young - SG
17 New Jersey Sean Williams - C
18 Golden State Marco Belinelli - SG
19 Los Angeles Javaris Crittenton - PG
20 Miami
Traded to Philadelphia Jason Smith - PF
21 Philadelphia
from Denver; Traded to Miami Daequan Cook - SG
22 Charlotte
from Toronto through Cleveland Jared Dudley - SF
23 NY Knicks
from Chicago Wilson Chandler - SF
24 Phoenix
from Cleveland through Boston; Traded to Portland Rudy Fernandez - SG
25 Utah Morris Almond - SG
26 Houston Aaron Brooks - PG
27 Detroit Arron Afflalo - SG
28 San Antonio Tiago Splitter - PF
29 Phoenix Alando Tucker - SF
30 Philadelphia
from Dallas through Denver and Golden State; Traded to Portland Petteri Koponen - PG

[Creamy Goodness]

portland shoulda tried to get more for Randolph and also tried to get rid of d.miles

[darklighter1]

Boston got shafted as usual. Oh the woe to be a Boston Celtic fan...

[lets_procreate]

Was re-reading my post and I remembered that Pierce and Allen are both shoot first guards. Plus Boston pick up Allen's huge salary. Massive downside. Whereas Seattle get a great backup in West and a genuine starter in Wally seeing as Rashard Lewis is now a free agent. J-Rich in Charlotte can work but I think they need to re-sign Gerald Wallace to keep it competitive.I agree with CG. They should've tried to ditch Miles. I forgot they have Marcus Aldridge, Jarret Jack and Raef LaFrentz on the bench. New York was too combustible with Francis AND Marbury playing on the same team. Fred Jones will bring the excitement back to the Knicks but they lose the player that was going to bring them hope in Frye.

[darklighter1]

I guess Francis was picked up only because he didn't have much left on his contact and Portland is just going to buy him out and he'll be a free agent. Allen is a very good player and he can play the shooting guard while Pierce plays one of the forward positions. It's just that with Allen are they a team threatening to be a power in the East, and even though they are now better I say no. Would've liked to have seen them trade Pierce and draft Yi Jianlian but no one has patience for this team to build anymore after 20 lousy years.

[lets_procreate]

Seattle and Portland are in the enviable position of having players they can build around and will become legitimate contenders in the next 5 years. Looks like Boston are just running out of patience and want a quick fix straight away. You can't band-aid a whale-sized problem. Vince Carter has opted out of his contract but is looking to staying with the Nets. Would be a coup for any team.

[TheNewNo.2]

I really love everything Portland did on draft day. Given how tough the West is, I don't expect them to make the playoffs for the next couple of years, but I think Portland's perfectly set up to become a contender in about 3 or 4 years, just as Phoenix, San Antonio, and Dallas are starting to decline. As a hardcore Ohio State fan & a (considerably less hardcore) Washington fan, I'm geeked about Greg Oden & Brandon Roy playing together. I also really like that Portland was able to dump Zach Randolph, who's fat, doesn't play defense, and is a locker room cancer. Playing Randolph and Oden at the same time would never have worked, anyway, since they're both back-to-the-basket low post players, while LaMarcus Aldridge and Channing Frye are facing players who will compliment Oden better (even if both of them are soft as yogurt). Francis has always been selfish and went downhill faster than any player I've seen in a long time, but he's a veteran and might be a short term improvement at point guard over Jarrett Jack until Jack gets more experience. The two European guys Portland drafted look like they're going to be really solid NBA players, too, although I expect both of them to stay overseas for a couple more years. I even like what Portland did in the 2nd round--Demitrius Nichols is one-dimensional, but he's a hell of a shooter and could be a nice 3-point bombing role player like Jason Kapono or Kyle Korver. Josh McRoberts has tons of talent and is a big-time passer, but doesn't have the mentality to be the man on a team. I think he could be a solid supporting player to Oden and Roy, though. Now, all Portland has to do to make this a perfect off season is to dump Darius Miles any way they can. If they can't trade him (and I can't imagine that anybody would want him), they should just cut him and eat his contract. Paul Allen's got more money than he can ever spend and there's no way I'd want a knucklehead like Miles anywhere near Oden, Roy, and Aldridge. Consider it addition by subtraction, just like the Cavs did when they dumped him so he wouldn't rub off on LeBron.

I'm not sure if I like Seattle trading Allen away for Jeff Green. I guess if Green becomes a big time player, it will be worth it, but I'd like the trade better if Seattle got a player with more upside, like Yi. I love Green's game, but I think he's gong to be more of a role player than a star--passing, playing solid defense, and scoring 12 or 15 a night. I hear Seattle's going to try to re-sign Rashard Lewis with the money they saved from dumping Allen, but Lewis is almost exactly the same player as Durant--same size, same versatile offense, same pure scoring mentality--so I don't know what having both of them on the team will do for the Sonics in the long run, and I don't know if there will be enough shots for both of them. Plus, Green better be able to defend three players at the same time, because Durant and Lewis don't play any defense at all.

As for Boston, Danny Ainge is just clutching at straws trying to right that sinking ship and save his ass after some of the godawful moves he's made. I still can't believe he traded a lottery pick for that worthless piece of crap Sebastian Telfair last year. Having Allen and Pierce might make a few more fans come out to see the Celtics, but other than Al Jefferson, there's just nothing on that team that's worth a fuck. Even as shitty as the East is, where you only have to win 38 or 40 games to challenge for the Playoffs, I can't see the Celtics having any chance unless they add some significant help in free agency. Plus, it's not like having a 33 year old Ray Allen is going to make them contenders for the championship. Ainge is just trying to squeak into the playoffs to show that he's made some improvement, but in the NBA, who wants to be mediocre? You want to be really good or really bad. The Celtics have been really bad for the last few years, but Ainge keeps trading away their lottery picks rather than actually using them on players who might actually make the Celtics a better team in the long term. They could have Brandon Roy & Yi or Jeff Green on this team, along with Paul Pierce and Al Jefferson, but instead they have an aging, injury prone Ray Allen & an empty locker where Telfair's uniform used to be. Ainge is rapidly turning into the Matt Millen of the NBA (or maybe he's just the Isaiah Thomas of the Northeast), and he's setting back the Celtics for a decade with some of the ludicrous shit he's done there.

[lets_procreate]

I feel that maybe the Celtics need to bench Danny Ainge and bring in someone with a vision of the future and not of the past. They're too busy trying to recreate the glory days now when it's cleaer to see they need a re-build. It's hard to see them reaching the playoffs or even staying in touch with the contenders.

Frye, Aldridge, Jack, and Oden are the future of the club and if they can manage to keep them together and stay healthy, you'll see them storm the league in 2010.

I'd like to see Orlando pick up someone like Rashard Lewis and give them another option. If they could trade away and pick up Kevin Garnett or Shawn Marion, that would be a steal.

Alternatively, I'd like Phoenix to sign Rashard Lewis and you'll have an awesome starting 5 in Nash, Barbosa, Marion, Lewis and Stoudamire. The SUns need some back up. They can't win a title with a 7 man rotation. Thankfully, Steve Kerr has taken the GM position in Arizona and hopefully he'll see the need for a stronger bench.

[darklighter1]

I agree with what you guys are saying about the Celtics....or I should say Selltix but the moves made were to appease Pierce. The word was if Ainge picked up another kid for the team instead of veteran help he woulda demanded a trade. This team has essentially been rebuilding since 1986 so everyone around here is fed the fuck up and didn't want another rebuilding year and so instead we've become the old Washington Bullets, stuck in mediocrity.

[TheNewNo.2]

I just heard that Vince Carter resigned with New Jersey & that Jason Kapono is signing with Toronto. I wish the Cavs would have pursued Kapono, because they sure as hell could use his shooting. Then again, they drafted him a few years back, so they never should have let him go in the first place. :dammit:

Talk about a bunch of mixed rumors going on. I just read on ESPN.com that Orlando, Houston, & Seattle are the main teams bidding on Rashard Lewis, and while Orlando was expected to be the front runner, Lewis might actually go to Houston because he's from there, and that Seattle's putting on a full court press to keep him. The story said he either wants to go to a team that can win a championship right away (why is he talking to Houston, then? Tracy McGrady couldn't win a game of checkers), or he wants a max contract.

However, on Foxsports.com, an article said that Miami, Charlotte and Cleveland are the leading candidates for Lewis. Now I'm a big Cavs fan, but nothing I've read in the local paper has mentioned Lewis going to Cleveland. He'd be a fantastic compliment for LeBron, especially since he's such a great shooter, but I don't think the Cavs have the cap room to get him. Plus, they're in need of a point guard and have to keep Sasha Pavlovic and Anderson Varejao, two of their best young players, and if they keep both, they'll be over the luxury tax. I really wish the NBA was like the NFL and didn't have guaranteed contracts so you could just cut guys you don't need anymore. The Cavs might lose their good young players because all their cap space is tied up in a aging, ineffective guys with big contracts like Donyell Marshall and Damon Jones.

[elgarabo]

i believe that the NBA sucks.... Duncan MVP 2006? Parker MVP 2007? Ginobli was...

[durcam]

Fixed the title for ya :D :013: :D :013:

[darklighter1]

Fixed the title for ya :D :013: :D :013:

What'dya mean Dur? Did I misspell Lottery or something? If so thanks!

[durcam]

What'dya mean Dur? Did I misspell Lottery or something? If so thanks!

Glad to be of service , your spelling is impeccable , The Heat are gonna suck for yrs. to come , make's me bitter to see the SA bores are gonna dominate for the forseeable future regardless of the draft or trades , oh well , there's allways curing and the net :( :D :013: :D :013:

[darklighter1]

Yeah San Antonio is gonna lock for a few more years but Phoenix and Houston and even Dallas are going to be damn good and be in some serious contention. All the while the Eastern part of the country's interest is drying up further and further each day. Thanks NBA lottery!

[lets_procreate]

Looks like Yi Jianlian doesn't want to stay in Milwaukee so maybe they'll trade him. Send him to Cleveland for Larry Hughes. Cavs could use someone like Mike Bibby though, a pass-first PG. Billups is a free agent but I get the feeling they'll throw everything at him to stay in Detroit. I would have liked Kapono in Phoenix, given their penchant for outside shooting and uptempo offense. If I was in Seattle, I'd look at signing Lewis and just trading him away ASAP for a good offensive SG.

Spoke too soon. Orlando Magic and Rashard Lewis have verbally agreed on a contract for five years believed to be worth $75 - $85 million. I think the best thing they can do is ditch Darko "Intense as a fucking bean-pole" Milicic to some no-hoper in the West for someone with talent.

Seattle is still in a good position. They have Luke Ridnour, Chris Wilcox, Kevin Durant, Jeff Green, Nick Collison, and a few others they can build around. Maybe a change in tempo is the key to getting deep into the playoffs. They're a younger team now and I think if they played as uptempo as Phoenix, they can be right up there.

[TheNewNo.2]

Darko's a restricted free agent, so the Magic can just let him walk if they want to. They don't even need to find a taker in a trade for his worthless ass. Lewis going to Orlando might make them better than Miami & Washington in the Southeastern division. A Dwight Howard-Lewis inside-outside combo's going to be pretty lethal, and they might be one more excellent player away from challenging the Cavs & Pistons for the Eastern Conference crown.

Unfortunately for the Cavs, Larry Hughes' bloated contract makes him completely untradable. They offered him to Boston on draft day, but the Celtics took the Ray Allen trade instead. Hughes is a decent player and a good guy, but his game doesn't mesh with LeBron's at all. When they had all kinds of cap room a few years back, the Cavs wanted to get a big-time shooter like Allen or Michael Redd to open things up for LeBron, and when those guys re-signed with their teams, the Cavs threw a bunch of money at Hughes to make a big splash and keep LeBron happy by making a big signing. Now, they're regretting it, since Hughes isn't a great shooter and he's injury prone.

I don't think the Chinese will let Yi go to Cleveland any more than they'd let him go to Milwaukee, since they want him in a city with a large Chinese population. If they refuse to budge on that demand, there won't be too many teams he can play for--both LA teams, Golden State, Chicago, Boston, New York--but obviously not Charlotte, Cleveland, Orlando, San Antonio, or most of the rest of the league.

As for the Cavs' point guard situation, I'd prefer them to go after Mo Williams rather than Bibby. Bibby's a better shooter, but he's getting older and doesn't play any defense. Williams is only 24 and had a great season for the Bucks last year. Jose Calderon, the Raptors' backup PG wouldn't be a bad pickup, either.

I've also heard that the Cavs are going hard after Morris Peterson from Toronto, since he's a good shooter and plays tough D. Apparently, they're going to give him their mid-level exception, but I'd rather they spend the money on re-signing Sasha Pavlovic. Mo Pete's never been a particularly great NBA player, and Sasha just keeps getting better and better. Plus, he's about 7 years younger. When the Cavs beat the Pistons in the Eastern Conference Finals, I was excited about their future because, even with all the money they've got tied up in worthless veterans like Donyell Marshall, Damon Jones, and Eric Snow, they have a bunch of talented young guys around LeBron--Daniel Gibson, Drew Gooden, Pavlovic, and Anderson Varejao. Now, they might lose both Pavlovic & Varejao to free agency this year, which will really set them back in trying to take the next step.

The main thing the Cavs need to do is actually install an offense this year. Mike Brown's a hell of a defensive coach, and the Cavs have become an excellent defensive team because of it, but he doesn't know anything about running an offense. The Cavs offense this years was four guys standing around and LeBron going one-on-one as the shot clock wound down. Both LeBron & Hughes complained to the press about it during the season. Most observers in Cleveland think Brown should hire a veteran offensive-minded coach to install a new offense, but apparently Brown thinks he can do it himself.

[lets_procreate]

So Kapono signs with Toronto. Derek Fisher is now a Laker, again. Darko is a Grizzlie. Grant Hill moved to Phoenix. And Steve Francis doesn't have a home. What do you all think of these moves?

[TheNewNo.2]

Nothing earth-shattering has happened so far, although I'm happy Darko signed with Memphis, which means they won't be pursuing Anderson Varejao, and I'm disappointed Fisher signed with the Lakers because I was hoping he might come to Cleveland (and also because I hate Kobe, and Fisher should make the Lakers better).

I just read on ESPN.com that the Clippers are hot on the tail of Francis, for whatever reason. Bringing in an over the hill, ultra-selfish, locker room cancer who doesn't play defense doesn't sound like a good way to get the Clips back on track after last season. Apparently, the Mavs and a bunch of other teams want to sign him on the cheap, too, but I don't know if he'll ever accept being a role player on a really good team, which is what he'd be in Dallas or Miami.

I also heard that the Cavs are after Mike Bibby again, and might trade Drew Gooden for him. If that happens, then they'd absolutely have to re-sign Varejao, because he'd be their starting PF. I'm not sure how I feel about that, because Gooden's a better all-around player than Varejao and he really seems to have turned the corner into becoming a really solid NBA player. Plus, Bibby's getting up there in years, doesn't play much defense, and isn't the player he was back when the Kings were good. On the other hand, the Cavs could sure use his shooting and passing.

Speaking of ESPN, this is a really interesting article about how the Magic may have totally fucked themselves for the next 5 years by throwing so much money at Rashard Lewis, who isn't a franchise player and wasn't getting anywhere near the same offers from other teams. The link says it's an Insider article, but it's a free preview: http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/insider/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&id=2934997&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab3pos1&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fnba %2finsider%2fcolumns%2fstory%3fcolumnist%3dford_ch ad%26id%3d2934997%26lpos%3dspotlight%26lid%3dtab3p os1

[lets_procreate]

With regards to Rashard Lewis, it's proof of the power of the almighty dollar. I'd prefer to have seen him join a contender than a project team.

Morris Peterson has reportedly agreed to join the Hornets. May be a good thing seeing as their roster is a little sparse on forwards.

I would personally like to see someone like Gary Payton move to Cleveland because I think he'd be a big influence on Daniel Gibson. If the Cavs want to go further, they need a veteran with Playoff experience. That's all that they've realy been lacking, experience.

If Francis moved to the Lakers, it would all fall in place. (I hate Kobe just as much and I don't want to see him win another title, anywhere).

I think if Darko doesn't have an impact in Memphis, NOONE is going to want him once his contract is up. All the talk of his upside when he was drafted and none of it has come to fruition. Let him play in Europe for a couple years to toughen up and once he comes back, he'll be better than ever.

Looking at the free agent list on ESPN, the more notables for me are: Brevin Knight, Esteban Batista, Mike Sweetney, DerMarr Johnson, Matt Barnes, Jason Hart, Mo Williams, Ruben Patterson, Desmond Mason, Mikki Moore, Joe Smith, Ime Udoka, & Danny Fortson

**************************New Post********************************************** *************

Mo Williams is staying with the Bucks. Mikki Moore is now a King. Jamaal Magloire has taken his place in New Jersey. And Joe Smith has signed to the windy city. Any thoughts?

I personally think the Joe Smith move is a good one. He's now a veteran and has gained so much experience.

[lets_procreate]

It's been reported that Steve Francis has signed a two year deal with Houston. Are they FINALLY going to make a decent push into the playoffs or will they merely slump down the ladder?

[Creamy Goodness]

It's been reported that Steve Francis has signed a two year deal with Houston. Are they FINALLY going to make a decent push into the playoffs or will they merely slump down the ladder?

maybe cuttino mobley will get traded to houston as well!
and houston should bring back the Stro!

[TheNewNo.2]

Well, the Rockets didn't do anything with Francis back when he was good, so I don't see why they would now that he sucks. I remember how incredibly selfish he was--he never passed the ball into Yao, when Houston's entire offense should have been running through him instead of Francis, and just jacked up awful shots. On the good side of things, the Rockets have a glut of point guards and are looking into trading John Lucas III or Rafer Alston. I wouldn't mind the Cavs laying their hands on Alston. They've got to do something to improve this off-season.

Also, in the kind of trade that makes me hate the NBA's strict salary structure, the Suns traded Kurt Thomas and 2 first round picks to Seattle for a second round pick, just to get rid of Thomas' salary. That kind of move just pisses me off since it has nothing to do with Phoenix getting better and everything to do with them not wanting to pay the luxury tax. And I know Thomas is getting up there in years, but if they couldn't beat the Spurs and Tim Duncan with Thomas, who was their best post defender, how are they going to beat them without him? It's not like Grant Hill can defend a center and anyway, he'll be injured by the time games actually count next spring.

[lets_procreate]

[QUOTE=TheNewNo.2;131890]Also, in the kind of trade that makes me hate the NBA's strict salary structure, the Suns traded Kurt Thomas and 2 first round picks to Seattle for a second round pick, just to get rid of Thomas' salary. That kind of move just pisses me off since it has nothing to do with Phoenix getting better and everything to do with them not wanting to pay the luxury tax.QUOTE]

Totally agree. They say they're happy with their roster now, even though they only have two players able to play at the C. If they really want to get better, they HAVE to trade away a guard (Thinking Piatowski) and bring in a reasonable back-up C because I don't see Sean Marks keeping up. Plus the rotation will struggle. They'll return to a 7 or 8 man rotation.

I HOPE to God that he realises who he has on his team. T-Mac and Yao are both capable of winning games for them and if he can just let them play their game, they'll be even better this year.

[lets_procreate]

Former Minnesota Timberwolves forward Eddie Griffin died last week when his sport utility vehicle collided with a freight train in a fiery crash, the Harris County medical examiner's office said Tuesday.

Investigators used dental records to identify Griffin, 25, who began his tumultuous pro career with the Houston Rockets in 2001. He was waived by the Timberwolves in March.

"The cause of death and manner of death, which also includes toxicology results, is pending," said Beverly Begay, chief investigator for the Harris County Medical Examiner's office.

Griffin, a five-year veteran who was the No. 7 pick in the 2001 NBA draft, had battled alcohol problems since coming out of Seton Hall. He was suspended by the league for five games in January for violating its anti-drug program.

"Basketball was never an issue with him. He needed more life lessons, and unfortunately he was never able to reach his potential," former Timberwolves coach Dwane Casey said.

Houston police said in a report that the driver of the SUV ignored a railroad warning and went through a barrier before striking the moving train about 1:30 a.m. Friday. The resulting fire burned the SUV and the side of a railcar carrying plastic granules, police said.

The driver's body was badly burned and there was no identification.

"I was able this afternoon to get some dental records from the one dentist he had gone to see in Houston, and they were able to use that apparently to positively identify him," said Derek S. Hollingsworth, an attorney who has represented Griffin in criminal cases.

Hollingsworth said he spoke with Griffin's mother, who was devastated by the news.

"Everybody tried to help him from the top to the bottom of the organization," said Casey, who coached Griffin for 1½ seasons. "He just couldn't get it straight. It's a tragic ending for a beautiful kid. He had a beautiful heart."

Casey said he hadn't talked to Griffin in five or six months but he knew that Griffin was spending the summer trying to get back in shape to play in Europe next season.

Casey said he regretted not having reached out to Griffin in the past few months.

"The entire Minnesota Timberwolves organization is deeply saddened by this tragic news. Eddie will be missed by everyone who knew him," said Kevin McHale, vice president of basketball operations for the team. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Eddie's loved ones."

Casey said Griffin was "like a son to Kevin. Kevin really enjoyed working with him and taking him under his wing."

Mark Madsen, a former teammate in Minnesota, said Griffin was a mild-mannered person and "one of the best shot blockers and defensive rebounders I've ever played with." He said Griffin will be missed.

"Eddie Griffin is someone who was never a super loud or boisterous guy in the locker room, but he was someone who everyone loved in the locker room," Madsen said. "When he was doing well on the court we were all so happy for him. And when he was struggling, we were all struggling right there with him."

Griffin had a series of suspensions, court dates and missed practices during his first two years in the NBA with Houston and New Jersey. He spent time in the Betty Ford Center for alcohol treatment in 2003-04.

Hollingsworth said he found Griffin to be kind and gentle -- behavior inconsistent with how the player was described in police reports.

"He had a problem with alcohol, and I think that was a medication for him, and I think that led to a lot of issues," Hollingsworth said.

Griffin, who played forward and center, signed with the Timberwolves as a free agent before the 2004 season. He showed enough promise as a shot-blocker and rebounder to be signed to an extension, but was waived in March after playing in just 13 games last season with the Wolves.

The Wolves put his locker right next to star Kevin Garnett, hoping the former MVP could help straighten Griffin out.

Griffin put up some big numbers on occasion with the Wolves, but continued to get into trouble off the court. He pleaded guilty last season to inattentive driving after he hit a parked car while out late one night in Minneapolis.

The Rockets released a statement saying the organization "is devastated and saddened by this terrible tragedy. Our thoughts go out to Eddie's family and friends during this very difficult time."

[darklighter1]

Yeah I just saw this on Yahoo. Unbelievable, to be that talented and at the same time that crazy. Feel bad for his family. RIP Eddie.

[heyhey]

who is everyone going for?? im going for houston

[Creamy Goodness]

i just wanna see Yao make it past 1st round

[TheNewNo.2]

i just wanna see Yao make it past 1st round

Can you imagine how Tracy McGrady must feel? The guy's the NBA's born loser, has never gotten a team out of the 1st round, and now that he's hurt, the Rockets look like they could be the Lakers main competition in the West.

I just finished watching the Bulls & Celtics 3 OT thriller in game 6, and that series has just taken a turn for the surreal. They've already played 7 OTs--one more and that adds a full extra game to this series. Given that, I think even if the Celtics get past the Bulls, they'll be so exhausted and depleted by injuries, they'll get blown away by the Magic.

None of that matters, of course, since LeBron and the Cavs are going to bring Cleveland its first championship in any pro sport since 1964, baby! :D

[dodgerog]

Yeah...I think Cleveland is the team this year (and I'm happy for them). I had really hoped that Boston would repeat though. Their celebration after winning it last year was classic. They really understood the importance and how much it meant to players of old, the fans, heck everyone.

You just don't see it often enough in professional sports.

[thejackal777]

Houston, Orlando, or Atlanta

[XMizer]

Calgary lost...

[smashlord]

Go Cavs !!!

[Creamy Goodness]

at least Houston made it past 1st round
but .........
Yao is gone for playoffs

[UpDown]

Cavs are very strong. It took them several years to build a strong team around Lebron James, but there they are.
I'm a bit sad for Miami since I became Dwayne Wade fan in his year of rookie against Lebron James and Carmelo Anthony, and even if he won a NBA championship sooner, he and Miami are losing fuel with time.

[bhinn]

Cavs for sure

[mrjfo]

go Cavs!

[birdjr]

go lakers

[bluhbleh]

King James and Cavs should take it this season

[thechronicx]

I DON'T want either the cavs (becasue they're #1), the lakers (because I simply have an everlasting grudge against them), or the celtics (because they're the defending champions) to win. everyone else, I don't care who wins.

[michael51986]

Sadly, I'm a Pistons fan. I'm picking Cleveland over Los Angeles.

[joe mama]

As long as Kobe and the lakers lose, I'll be happy.

[alwaysb0red7]

goign with the cavs