Official 2008-09 NBA Thread

[Mister J]

I'll be a fan as long as he stays close to the rim. He took some ugly shots tonight. I'm hoping he replaces Diawara in the line-up while Jones is out. He had another bad game.
There were two shots in particular, I believe in the 3rd quarter, where I remarked to myself "So, that's what Ziggyman was talking about." Yikes. Reign it in a little, Jamario.

His defense was great though. It slowed Miller down after he had his offense really working.

I can't believe I just had to type that last sentence. Andre Miller; offensive dynamo. :dry:

Of course, if JJ would just revert back to last year's form (or the year before that), this all is a moot point and just gives Miami more depth. The less Diawara, the better.

[Ghostvirus]

Uhm I just saw a Monkey riding a dog on NBA Tv.:dry:

[Mister J]

That's no way to talk about Macy Webber and GP. :hehe:

[Silver Knight]

Who else thinks Jason Williams will sign with the Celtics?

[Go Web Go!]

Whatever the case, he has a few obstacles to overcome -

Veteran point guard Jason Williams has applied to the NBA for reinstatement, according to a report by Yahoo! Sports on Saturday.

The NBA Board of Governors must approve a petition sent Wednesday to the league's 30 teams.

Williams needs a unanimous vote of the Board of Governors to waive a one-year mandatory waiting period to return from the voluntary retired list.

Teams have until February 27 to cast a vote.

The Los Angeles Clippers would have exclusive rights to Williams if he is reinstated. Williams signed with the Clippers last summer, but retired before the start of training camp.

Williams last played in 2007-08 with Miami. The 10-year veteran has career averages of 11.4 points and 6.3 assists in 679 games with Sacramento, Memphis and the Heat.


This whole process needs to be worked out by March 1st in order for him to even be on a team's playoff roster. Otherwise he has no real reason to bother coming back for 30 games.

[Ziggyman]

There were two shots in particular, I believe in the 3rd quarter, where I remarked to myself "So, that's what Ziggyman was talking about." Yikes. Reign it in a little, Jamario.

His defense was great though. It slowed Miller down after he had his offense really working.

I can't believe I just had to type that last sentence. Andre Miller; offensive dynamo. :dry:

Of course, if JJ would just revert back to last year's form (or the year before that), this all is a moot point and just gives Miami more depth. The less Diawara, the better.

Hahahaha! Hate to say I told you so!

...What did he put up?

[Go Web Go!]

12 & 2 for Moon on 5-9 shooting. Jermaine had himself a nice game too, 17 & 10.

[Ziggyman]

Bah...!

Those numbers will drop...

I hope!

[Go Web Go!]

Oh, stop with the hating. Take Shawn Marion, his $17 million, & his overrated EVERYTHING and worry not about JO's oversized cranium.

[Silver Knight]

If the playoffs started today who would the Heat and Hornets face?

[Go Web Go!]

Heat would face the Hawks. Couldn't tell you about the Hornets.

[Ziggyman]

Raps oust Knicks!

Hahaha!

[Go Web Go!]

Anyone ousting the Knicks makes me a happy boy.

[Mister J]

How the hell did Marion manage to get 20 shots?

[Excel]

Rondo is filthy.

[Go Web Go!]

How the hell did Marion manage to get 20 shots?

& he only hit 8 of those. :hehe:

[Ziggyman]

Shuddup!!!

Marion had a great game!

He would leave the fast break after turnovers and get a basket from someone in like 7 seconds!

He's been a really good get so far! Almost a triple-double too!

[Lobo]

I figured Toronto would win at home after the blowout at MSG.

He's a restricted free agent this summer, but something tells me Nate is going to get a HUGE offer from some team, and NY won't match it.

[Mister J]

Good Lord, Nash is an awful defender.

This was already fairly common knowledge, but it's just being emphasized today.

[Docker2.0]

Anyone ousting the Knicks makes me a happy boy.

Was that necessary! :cmad: You just made my list and its personal!


Anyway, Alvin Gentry is one of the worst coaches in NBA history. I don't see how the players thought he'd be the answer for them to win. He may support Phoenix's run and gun system but when it comes to x's and o's, proper substitutions and common sense, dude just doesn't have it.

[Mister J]

Christ, Miami.

[Docker2.0]

As much as it pains me to say this, if Miami stays healthy, they'll probably be the 4th seed and make it to the 2nd round. No way Atlanta stays there........though they've been there longer than anyone expected.

[Silver Knight]

Miami would beat the Hawks with ease and I think can trouble Bos, Orl and Cle if Wade stays hot.

[Docker2.0]

:hehe: @troubling Orlando.

[Go Web Go!]

Well, that was just one of those games that makes you want to turn off the tv halfway through the 1st quarter. Sure enough...Anyway, career high 50 by Wade but I'm sure he'd rather get W's than stats, though it's going to be hard to win anything when your starting 5 puts up the following: 5, 2, 6, 50, 2. Ugh. This team has been frustrating the hell out of me as of late. Pick it up or you'll be watching from home, Miami.

Was that necessary! :cmad: You just made my list and its personal!


It's been personal, son! :mad:

[Docker2.0]

I figured Toronto would win at home after the blowout at MSG.

He's a restricted free agent this summer, but something tells me Nate is going to get a HUGE offer from some team, and NY won't match it.

Which is what I don't understand about the Knicks! Lee, Robinson, and Chandler should be untouchable and become the cornerstones of the franchise but I guarantee they will trade them for peanuts. Its amazing how other teams can see the talent someone has but the team you play on just blindly misses it! :rolleyes:

[Docker2.0]

I figured Toronto would win at home after the blowout at MSG.

He's a restricted free agent this summer, but something tells me Nate is going to get a HUGE offer from some team, and NY won't match it.

Which is what I don't understand about the Knicks! Lee, Robinson, and Chandler should be untouchable and become the cornerstones of the franchise but I guarantee they will trade them for peanuts. Its amazing how other teams can see the talent someone has but the team you play on just blindly misses it! :rolleyes:

[Go Web Go!]

Oh no, the Chuckster is off to the slammer...for 5 days. That was close. I would have locked myself up with him if I had to deal with Webber for another few months.

[Lobo]

Which is what I don't understand about the Knicks! Lee, Robinson, and Chandler should be untouchable and become the cornerstones of the franchise but I guarantee they will trade them for peanuts. Its amazing how other teams can see the talent someone has but the team you play on just blindly misses it! :rolleyes:

Don't worry, Isiah isn't running the show anymore. If we trade them, we'll get value back. I expect us to re-sign Lee, and Chandler is still in his rookie contract, so he's cheap for us to keep.

[Docker2.0]

Don't worry, Isiah isn't running the show anymore. If we trade them, we'll get value back. I expect us to re-sign Lee, and Chandler is still in his rookie contract, so he's cheap for us to keep.
I don't know about them re-signing and keeping Lee. They've been trying their best to trade the guy to Portland for Outlaw and I just don't think that's a good trade, especially with Chandler there and if they could somehow pry James from Cleveland, though I doubt it would ever happen.

[Asgard]

Devin Harris is the ****ing man!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0afz7lz7KGM

[Ziggyman]

Nice...But I swear when the Sixer touched the ball...he was already out of bounds...

[Go Web Go!]

Devin Harris is the ****ing man!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0afz7lz7KGM

Nice, especially when it's helping my team. :woot:

[R_3]

The Devin Harris shot was the best buzzer beater since Morris Peterson's in Washington about 2 yrs back!

[Lobo]

I don't know about them re-signing and keeping Lee. They've been trying their best to trade the guy to Portland for Outlaw and I just don't think that's a good trade, especially with Chandler there and if they could somehow pry James from Cleveland, though I doubt it would ever happen.

It won't happen, Donnie admitted Lee is better than he thought and he want to keep him. Oh and Marbs is finally, officially gone.

[BigSams50]

Celtics sign mikki moore, now are closing in on marbury, wow talk about adding depth

[Go Web Go!]

Nice to see Miami drop the Pistons & get some breathing room in the race for the 4/5 seed. Not a great game from JO, but a solid 12 & 6 for Moon off the bench. Important game against the Hawks up next.

[Ghostvirus]

Bulls put the Horns to the Magic.:up:

[LastSunrise1981]

Wow, I'm very disappointed. How in the world do we lose to a San Antonio that didn't have Ginoboli or Duncan? Talk about a horrible effort.

[Trainwreck2100]

Wow, I'm very disappointed. How in the world do we lose to a San Antonio that didn't have Ginoboli or Duncan? Talk about a horrible effort.

yeah that was pretty bad, especially that the Spurs kept doubling Nowitzky when he got the ball, and the other Mavs did nothing to help him.then carlisle didn't do the same thing with parker. And just let him burn them. Why didn't he double? who would Parker have passed to?

[The Incredible Hulk]

Can we please get a do over on the AI for Chauncey deal? :( God, the Pistons are unwatchable with Iverson on the team. All the chemistry they used to have is gone, it's like watching 5 separate players in a pick-up game who've never played with one another.

[Darthphere]

Not really The Answers fault either, well maybe. He wasn't going to come off the bench because he's The Answer and all that but they had a good foundation for the future there. What they need is more practice.

[Go Web Go!]

Don't worry, Hulk. He'll be gone after the season if you're lucky...as will most of the team.

Before the Shawn Marion trade, Phoenix approached the Heat about the idea of dealing Shaquille O'Neal back to Miami, according to an official directly involved. (The Suns considered moving Shaq because of his $20 million 2009-10 salary.) The Suns discussed taking back what they traded for Shaq -- Shawn Marion (who could have been rerouted by Phoenix to another team) and Marcus Banks. Miami had no interest in reacquiring Shaq. -- Miami Herald

Someone please get Steve Kerr out of there.

[Lobo]

Wow, Kerr is going to end up with an Isiah like gm resume

[Go Web Go!]

No kidding. I'd like to know what the PHX front office was thinking when they hired him. "Hey, that guy's a pretty good analyst! Let's give him a job!"

Ernie Johnson would have been a better GM.

[The Incredible Hulk]

Not really The Answers fault either, well maybe. He wasn't going to come off the bench because he's The Answer and all that but they had a good foundation for the future there. What they need is more practice.

:huh:

[Trainwreck2100]

No kidding. I'd like to know what the PHX front office was thinking when they hired him. "Hey, that guy's a pretty good analyst! Let's give him a job!"

Ernie Johnson would have been a better GM.

Sadly its not all Kerr's fault alot of it has to do with Sarver being a cheap SOB who will do anything to get rid of money. How many draft picks did he sell over the years and now its coming back to hurt them

[Go Web Go!]

Yeah, I know all about their owner pinching pennies, but Kerr can't go without getting some of the blame.

[Darthphere]

:huh:

I talking about practice.

[Caped Crusader]

Can we please get a do over on the AI for Chauncey deal? :( God, the Pistons are unwatchable with Iverson on the team. All the chemistry they used to have is gone, it's like watching 5 separate players in a pick-up game who've never played with one another.

Not really The Answers fault either, well maybe. He wasn't going to come off the bench because he's The Answer and all that but they had a good foundation for the future there. What they need is more practice.

As much as it hurts to watch the Pistons, this was the best move. AI's & Sheed's contracts come off the books at the end of the season. Pistons will have the most cap space this off season & possibly next season. This move wasnt only great for cap space but to help Stuckey's career take off. The Pistons could resign Sheed for one more year and possibly sign Boozer. I'm fine with having a one bad year then making us a contender again for the upcoming season..

Sheed
Boozer
Prince
Rip
Stuckey

Bench- Max, Amir, Afflalo, Bynum & etc.

Nice team :up:


Just hope Boozer will stay healthy.


I do miss Billups though :(

[Mister J]

The AI/Chauncey trade was always more about the future than 2008-09. They weren't going to beat Cleveland or Boston (and now, Orlando) in the playoffs and the trade got them closer to being able to retool than they were prior to it.

I think much of the blame for their struggles should fall on Curry. With the type of player that Iverson is, he would seem to be more effective coming off the bench for scoring punch (while still getting his 30 minutes). I would have tried to preserve what remaining chemistry Detroit had left (w/o/ Billups) by keeping Rip as a starter.

[Caped Crusader]

I think much of the blame for their struggles should fall on Curry. With the type of player that Iverson is, he would seem to be more effective coming off the bench for scoring punch (while still getting his 30 minutes). I would have tried to preserve what remaining chemistry Detroit had left (w/o/ Billups) by keeping Rip as a starter.

Agree.. Curry is a rookie coach, so hopefully he'll learn, I think he will.. His biggest problem is the rotation..

[Mister J]

A rookie coach, struggling a bit with his rotation. I've learned a little bit about that this season.

[Lobo]

I learned what it's like to have a rotation this year :)

[Darthphere]

A rookie coach, struggling a bit with his rotation. I've learned a little bit about that this season.

Seriously. Either start Beasley or don't, make up your mind.

[Mister J]

Free Beasley! :cmad:

Though it's not frequent, when he plays less than 20 minutes, it makes me want to break things. There are all of (now) two other players on the team who can create their own shot. Defense, my ass, let the kid grow into it.

[Ziggyman]

Curry, former Raptor...No wonder he sucks!

[Caped Crusader]

Curry, former Raptor...No wonder he sucks!

:dry:

[Lobo]

Tough loss tonight, we played the Magic well. But, Jeez Dwight with his 46th Double Double, 24pts, and 21 Rebounds.

[Mister J]

When Dwight finally learns a complete set of offensive moves in the post, the entire ****ing league is in trouble.

He's 23. :dry:

[Darthphere]

And hit his free throws.

[Go Web Go!]

Well, you know...they said the same about Shaq and he's still working on it.

[Darthphere]

Apparently, Orlando doesn't believe in free throws.

[Go Web Go!]

But they believe in...Magic...:dry:

[Go Web Go!]

Celtics lose to the Clippers - KG or no KG, you can't do that. Don't worry. Boston...help is on the way!

Pistons lost too. 8 in a row. Good job out of them.

[Raiden]

Celtics lose to the Clippers - KG or no KG, you can't do that. Don't worry. Boston...help is on the way!

Pistons lost too. 8 in a row. Good job out of them.

Are you referring to Stephon Marbury? Btw, very nice win for the Clippers.

[Mister J]

It's an amazing job that they're doing in San Antonio. Every year, people deride them for being boring and say their time is done and all they do is continue to put up 50-win seasons and make deep playoff runs.

Handily beating Dallas and Portland on a back-to-back, with no Duncan or Ginobili is wild. It fits right in with how well they handled Parker's absence earlier this season. Pop is a hell of a coach.

[Go Web Go!]

Are you referring to Stephon Marbury? Btw, very nice win for the Clippers.

Yes, I am, and did so tongue-in-cheek. I don't think the Celts should bother.

[Mister J]

I think that Cleveland takes them down (provided the Cavs get homecourt), but if Boston actually goes through with this, I hope their ****ing season gets wrecked, big time. The resume on this guy is clear, over several stops. The move reeks of desperation, which is't the situation there at all.

If this assclown rides the coattails to a ring, we're going to be one step closer to Armageddon.

[Lobo]

When is the next time Boston and NY play?

I wish Donnie would have waited to March 2nd to release him as he'd not have been able to play on any play off roster.

edit n/m just checked we don't play Boston again, unless we manage to snag 8th seed.

[Mister J]

Next season.

I'm surprised that deal got done at all.

[Go Web Go!]

If this assclown rides the coattails to a ring, we're going to be one step closer to Armageddon.

I hear that. I HATE, HATE, HATE how certain guys find their way out of a crap situation & on to a championship-caliber team by season's end, though that's what Alonzo Mourning did once the Raps cut him loose. At least Zo was likeable.

[Raiden]

I think that Cleveland takes them down (provided the Cavs get homecourt), but if Boston actually goes through with this, I hope their ****ing season gets wrecked, big time. The resume on this guy is clear, over several stops. The move reeks of desperation, which is't the situation there at all.

If this assclown rides the coattails to a ring, we're going to be one step closer to Armageddon.

I'm sure last night's loss to Clippers will fuel their desperation.

[Mister J]

Last night was Boston just not showing up. They had a garbage effort This is still the same team that put back-to-back road beatdowns on Phoenix and Denver earlier this week. Last night's gaff aside, they're not falling apart. A couple of injuries, but still in far too favorable of a position to justify the risk of bringing in a loon like Marbury.

[Darthphere]

Gabe Pruitt was so depressed about losing to the Clippers he got drunk and got pulled over for a DUI. Wow. I mean dude, I know you need a drink after losing to the Clippers but come on man.

[Ghostvirus]

I hear that. I HATE, HATE, HATE how certain guys find their way out of a crap situation & on to a championship-caliber team by season's end, though that's what Alonzo Mourning did once the Raps cut him loose. At least Zo was likeable.

But yet Mille, Stockton, Malone, & Barkley don't have rings. A *****ing travesty.:down:

[Go Web Go!]

But yet Mille, Stockton, Malone, & Barkley don't have rings. A *****ing travesty.:down:

If only buyouts were common back then like they are now. Let's not forget that Malone at least tried to ride Shaq & Kobe's coat tails to a championship, but got smacked around by the Pistons - and Reggie was pretty damn close to doing so with Dallas a few years ago & Boston last season.

[Ziggyman]

I hear that. I HATE, HATE, HATE how certain guys find their way out of a crap situation & on to a championship-caliber team by season's end, though that's what Alonzo Mourning did once the Raps cut him loose. At least Zo was likeable.

I don't like him...he screwed us...

He wouldn't report to us when the deal for Vince went down...So really, the Vince trade was the worst trade in the history of the NBA!

[Go Web Go!]

I don't like him...he screwed us...


Well, when all you're getting in return for Vince Carter was 2 scrubs in Aaron & Eric Williams and a center (Mourning) whos best days were behind him, you can thank the old Toronto regime for any "screwing" I don't understand all the hate he got from Raptor fans after the buyout. It's as if a franchise player who had the ability to lead Toronto to a title had walked away. People also forget that Toronto management had said Mourning ''didn't meet medical conditions'' to play. Hmm.

So really, the Vince trade was the worst trade in the history of the NBA!

I don't know whether or not you've heard about this trade. Kind of went under the radar:

The Los Angeles Lakers have acquired forward Pau Gasol in a trade with the Memphis Grizzlies, it was announced today by General Manager Mitch Kupchak. The Lakers will also receive the Grizzlies second round draft choice in 2010. In exchange Memphis will receive forward Kwame Brown, guard Javaris Crittenton, guard Aaron McKie (who the Lakers signed earlier today), the draft rights to Marc Gasol and first round picks in 2008 and 2010.



:oldrazz:

[Ziggyman]

At least they got something...And Marc seems to be the one who will stay there...

Look at the trade now...We got nothing!

[Silver Knight]

Can anyone please tell me how long until the Lakers Suns game starts?

[Ziggyman]

Personally...I think that if Zo didn't help that much on the stat sheet...Think of what he could've taught Bosh...of whom at the time was very young and was indirectly named the franchise player...

Maybe if he did report to us...I wouldn't be complaining now of how soft he is and wanting a trade before '10!

[Ziggyman]

Can anyone please tell me how long until the Lakers Suns game starts?

10:30 eastern...You do the math...

[Silver Knight]

Im not from the states.

You post something helpful for once.

[Go Web Go!]

Like I said, blame whoever was running the Dinos at the time. That was a pretty terrible trade. In any case, that was nearly 5 years ago. You guys are in decent shape now despite a down year.

Cavs getting whooped, by the way. Ugly.

[Ziggyman]

Im not from the states.

You post something helpful for once.

Pardon...?

[Go Web Go!]

Im not from the states.

You post something helpful for once.

20 minutes or so.

[Silver Knight]

20 minutes or so.
Thanks mate. Your a great guy.

[Ziggyman]

Like I said, blame whoever was running the Dinos at the time. That was a pretty terrible trade. In any case, that was nearly 5 years ago. You guys are in decent shape now despite a down year.

Cavs getting whooped, by the way. Ugly.

...Rob Babcock's the man...Hated the guy...Though he did get us Calderon...And I think drafted Joey Graham who's working out now...

But he did draft Araujo...!

OMG!

[Ziggyman]

Thanks mate. Your a great guy.
:dry:

[Go Web Go!]

:dry:

Are you saying I'm not? :cmad:

[Ziggyman]

Are you saying I'm not? :cmad:

No...I'm sure you're a fine gentleman and all :dry:...

But why am I not when I said the time of the game?

[Go Web Go!]

No...I'm sure you're a fine gentleman and all :dry:...


Thanks. We should hang out more often.

But why am I not when I said the time of the game?

You confused the poor guy. He's not from these here parts.

[Go Web Go!]

By the way, does anyone else find it amusing that Al Harrington not only has his own shoe but his own commercial. I first saw his spot during AS weekend and was like...really?

[Ziggyman]

Im not from the states.

You post something helpful for once.

My bad mate...!

[Ziggyman]

Really like the Air Jordan commercial with Melo, Rip, Joe Johnson and CP...But dammit...why did Melo have to be owning the Raps...!

[Silver Knight]

You confused the poor guy. He's not from these here parts.
Exactly.
My bad mate...!
All good bud.

[Go Web Go!]

Ben Wallace out 8-10 with a ''broken'' leg. Not good.

[Silver Knight]

Cavs should have made the trade for Shaq.

[Ziggyman]

Suns vs. Lakers...who winning...It's on a channel I don't have...

[Go Web Go!]

Don't worry. It wasn't anything special. Blowout from the get-go.

[Ziggyman]

Who won?

[Mister J]

Two TNT blowouts tonight. Houston and Los Angeles with the beatdown.

Tough day for old school basketball, particularly in Chicago lore; Norm Van Lier and Johnny 'Red' Kerr passed today. R.I.P.

[Ziggyman]

Damn...Suns lost!

[LastSunrise1981]

Maybe it's just me but has anyone noticed that the games as of late have been very lackluster? Seems a like a lot of teams are just coasting and no one is putting forth any effort.

[Silver Knight]

Damn...Suns lost!
And that suprises you my friend?

[Raiden]

Celts sign Marbury (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3939352)

[Dr. Evil]

Interesting...........

http://basketball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/57587/20090227/nets_move_to_brooklyn_clears_hurdle/

So if the move actually happens, they become The Brooklyn Nets or New York Nets?

[Lobo]

Brooklyn

[Kargo Warrior]

Well what do you know?

Iverson doesn't play and we beat the Magic...in the same day when Curry said he will be benched and Rip will come back in the starting line-up.

Oh glorious day.:o:oldrazz:

[Go Web Go!]

Go figure.

No return for White Chocolate, by the way -

Veteran guard Jason Williams' request to be immediately reinstated to the NBA after his voluntary retirement before the season has been denied, ESPN.com has learned.

League bylaws state that Williams needed unanimous approval from the league's 30 teams to gain reinstatement within one year of his decision to walk away from a one-year contract he signed in August with the Los Angeles Clippers. The NBA enforces a one year mandatory waiting period for players wishing to return from the voluntary retired list without such approval.

But six teams voted against letting Williams return this season, according to results obtained Friday by ESPN.com. The six teams that voted no were Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Minnesota, San Antonio and the Clippers, who would have gained exclusive rights to the 33-year-old had he been reinstated.

After signing the one-year deal with L.A., Williams abruptly retired before the start of training camp. He has yet to publicly discuss his reasons for ultimately declining to join the Clippers.

It's believed that Williams would have drawn a fair amount of free-agent interest had he been reinstated and then let go by the Clippers.

In 679 regular-season games, Williams averaged 11.4 points, 6.3 assists and 2.4 rebounds while playing for Sacramento, Memphis and Miami. He has appeared in 53 playoff games, averaging 9.8 points, 3.7 assists and 2.2 rebounds and helped the Heat win a championship in 2006.

He was drafted by Sacramento in 1998 following his junior year at the University of Florida and was named to the 1999 NBA All-Rookie Team after averaging 12.8 points and 6.0 assists, quickly becoming one of the most popular players in the Kings' Sacramento history in partnership with Chris Webber.

Williams moved to Memphis before the 2001-02 season and over the next four seasons became the Grizzlies' career leader in assists and 3-point attempts. He joined the Heat via trade before the 2005-06 season.

[Mister J]

That ****ing sucked tonight. Miami had a chance to close within 1/2 game of the 4 spot and played like ass ...except for Beasley, who apparently needs an Order signed by Obama to crack 30 minutes.

[Caped Crusader]

About time the Pistons won..

ugh

[Ghostvirus]

Johnny "Red" Kerr you will be missed sir.... You will be missed.:csad:

[Caped Crusader]

Johnny "Red" Kerr you will be missed sir.... You will be missed.:csad:

:up:

R.I.P Red

[Go Web Go!]

That ****ing sucked tonight. Miami had a chance to close within 1/2 game of the 4 spot and played like ass ...except for Beasley, who apparently needs an Order signed by Obama to crack 30 minutes.

Nothing like staying home on a Friday night to watch your home team take a **** on the court. Ugh.

[Lobo]

Another day, another loss.

[Go Web Go!]

Another day, another loss.

Something's gotta give tomorrow night. :cmad:

[Docker2.0]

Can't believe Boston signed Marbury. I was hoping he'd go to Miami but eh....I just don't see how he could improve the team. He's only going to take minutes from House, not to mention that negative aura he seems to have.

[Docker2.0]

PS- Jalen Rose is possibly the worst commentator in sports, even worse than Webber. No wonder the fab 5 never won anything! :cmad:

[Go Web Go!]

Can't believe Boston signed Marbury. I was hoping he'd go to Miami but eh....

Ha! Take that!

[Darthphere]

Does White Chocolate really need to explain why he didn't join the Clippers?

[Bond]

That was some game in Dallas last night.

http://i43.tinypic.com/9r0klz.jpg

[Caped Crusader]

I actually like listening to GP & CWebb

[Lobo]

I hope NY an somehow manage a decent string of victories and get to the 8th spot. I don't want to wait for next season for Marbury vs NY :O

[Go Web Go!]

But why? You know the Knicks would get slapped around in the worst way. It's like you want Marbury to get the last laugh.

[Lobo]

Well yeah, we'd get swept, but I can see something going down. Like for instance hard foul on Steph by Q which lead to fighting fiasco, that espn will play 8 times per sports center.

And, come play off time, I think Cleveland can beat Boston anyway.

[Nightmare]

Even without big ben wallace?

Hmm.

[Go Web Go!]

This is not Ben Wallace of 2004 that Cleveland is missing, so yeah, I can still see them knocking Boston off.

Well yeah, we'd get swept, but I can see something going down. Like for instance hard foul on Steph by Q which lead to fighting fiasco, that espn will play 8 times per sports center.


If that's worth it, then sure, wish away. I'd rather watch my team beat an ex-player's team than go head hunting for the guy, thoughj if both can happen I'd gladly take it.

[Nightmare]

No Ben Wallace with the Additions of Moore and Starbury. I wouldnt say that the Cavs could Knock off the Celts so easily before those moves happend. We'll have to wait and see what happens.

[Mister J]

If Hijack City follows through on the rumored buyout of Joe Smith, I think he heads back to Cleveland. That'll lessen the impact of losing Wallace. Joe might even be an upgrade.

[Lobo]

Stephon is guaranteed to make any team worse.

[Go Web Go!]

Didn't show last night. We'll see how he does for the rest of the season.

[Lobo]

Good start for the knicks.

[Silver Knight]

Joe Smith will help save the Cavs me thinks.

[Lobo]

Everything was going so well, and then the players remembered they're the Knicks :(

[Mister J]

My God, Wade was amazing in the 4th. It was insane! :wow:

However, in those first 3 quarters, I let the profanities flow freely.:o
The Knicks were ridiculously relentless on offense until a little after the 4th started.

[Lobo]

I let the profanities fly after the bloody lip. My reaction was "Oh F***, Wade's gonna beat us by himself now"

When Nate stepped up to Jermaine O'Neal I was thinks :facepalm here we go again

We just REALLY need that go to guy. I'm definitely liking the Larry Hughes addition, and after his three, thought we might go to him again.

[Silver Knight]

Hughes is a A-class scrub.

[Lobo]

And yet he's been playing well.

[Silver Knight]

Lets see how long that lasts shall we.

[Lobo]

sure, hopefully it'll last longer than that nWo avatar ;)

[Silver Knight]

nWo is the greatest stable in Wrestling history.

[Mister J]

I let the profanities fly after the bloody lip. My reaction was "Oh F***, Wade's gonna beat us by himself now"

When Nate stepped up to Jermaine O'Neal I was thinks :facepalm here we go again

We just REALLY need that go to guy. I'm definitely liking the Larry Hughes addition, and after his three, thought we might go to him again.
That's one of the best singular performances in a qaurter that I've ever seen. Crazy.

Nate's crazy. He's got a Napoleonic Complex or something.

Hughes could be a real player if he ever managed to give a damn on a consistent basis. It's likely he'll be so next year (contract year). Selfish ****.

[Lobo]

nWo is the greatest stable in Wrestling history.

That is a bannable statement. the original Four Horseman are. :o

[Lobo]

That's one of the best singular performances in a qaurter that I've ever seen. Crazy.

Nate's crazy. He's got a Napoleonic Complex or something.

Hughes could be a real player if he ever managed to give a damn on a consistent basis. It's likely he'll be so next year (contract year). Selfish ****.

Scary thing is that reminds of some guy named Stephon something or other. Hey at least they're both in better situations for themselves now.

Nate still has the football mentality.

[Silver Knight]

That is a bannable statement. the original Four Horseman are. :o
No sir.

Anyways back on topic please.

[Silver Knight]

I just have to say Nate Rob is killin the L right now. Dude had another monster night with 29 off the bench.

[SolarTiger]

What did Nate do to Jermaine O'Neal?

[Etienne]

nWo is the greatest stable in Wrestling history.
I was more of a DX fan. :o

[Mister J]

What did Nate do to Jermaine O'Neal?
It was really nothing by either player. Nate drove the lane, got a foul, kept going afterward and JO kinda stuck his hand out and made some light contact. Nate said something to him, O'Neal took a step forward and the, just a little posturing. Double techs.

[Go Web Go!]

That was as disgusted as I've been as a Heat fan in some time. That was until Wade got elbowed in the mouth. From then on, as Spoelstra put it after the game, "get the **** out of the way." The fact that it was against the Knicks only made it sweeter. They couldn't lose this game with LeBron coming to town Monday and the Suns Wednesday.

[Mister J]

That emotion needs to carry over for next week; tough sledding

I really liked the rotation tonight. Moon started, Jones followed and no Quinn or Diawara. :up:

[Ziggyman]

Moon...Starting!

Bwahahahaha!

[Mister J]

He was way effective; 17/12. Played pretty well throughout the 6 games.

[Ziggyman]

He was way effective; 17/12. Played pretty well throughout the 6 games.

:csad:...Dammit!

:oldrazz::hehe:

[Mister J]

Well, Marion did put up 23/11 the other day. I had several "Where the hell was that play?" moments in response.

[Ziggyman]

Was pretty happy that day even though we lost...we played an overall good game until the fourth...But with Shaq, what could we do...Dropping 45!

[Silver Knight]

I was more of a DX fan. :o
nWo 4, 4, 4 Lyf brotha!

[Etienne]

As much of a fan I was I could endlessly talk about wrestling. However I will refrain as this is not the thread for that.

[Silver Knight]

Likewise. 97-99 were the glory days tho.

[Etienne]

Don't remember the exact years but yeah I was a fan of nWo with Rodman and Hogan. I found myself watching WWF more, Shawn Michaels was the ****! And there I go rambling on. :o

[Go Web Go!]

That emotion needs to carry over for next week; tough sledding

I really liked the rotation tonight. Moon started, Jones followed and no Quinn or Diawara. :up:

Took Spoelstra long enough to take Diawara out of the starting 5. He still needs to work on getting Beasley minutes though. I'm not liking the whole "easing him in" process when you're damn near 60 games into the year.

[Mister J]

Spo played decent minutes through the 9 minute mark in the 4th, which was a surprise, and I think he would have gotten more time aftreward if not for just riding the hot lineup. There were no substitutions after the elbow, even when Chalmers picked up #5.

Also:
Spoelstra said official Ken Mauer told him he didn't call a foul because Wade flopped.
Did he flop his way into a busted lip and mouth full of blood too? :dry:

[Holiday]

This may have been posted before but even if it has, I'll post it again anyways because it is that good:

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/090227

It's long but definitely worth reading.

[Ghostvirus]

Bulls take the fire out of the Rockets. :up:

[Silver Knight]

Bulls take the fire out of the Rockets. :up:
Bulls are still going no where my friend. Hate to break it to ya.

[Mister J]

Bulls take the fire out of the Rockets. :up:
That was some nasty stuff by D-Rose in the 4th.
Bulls are still going no where my friend. Hate to break it to ya.
Thank God you've got a dozen or so more teams to 'root' for, huh?

[Darthphere]

Did he flop his way into a busted lip and mouth full of blood too? :dry:

What the ****? Wade must be pulling WWE moves and pulled a razor blade out of his Band-Wade.:huh:

[Silver Knight]

That was some nasty stuff by D-Rose in the 4th.

Thank God you've got a dozen or so more teams to 'root' for, huh?
Dont start with this bs again please.

[Mister J]

What the ****? Wade must be pulling WWE moves and pulled a razor blade out of his Band-Wade.:huh:
It was only a matter of time until the Fashion Police cracked down on those. They had a good run.

Fortunately, you can still pick 'em up at the arena; 3 for $5. :funny:
Dont start with this bs again please.
I didn't start the fire, dude. It was always burnin' since last year's NBA thread was turnin'.
My teams are: Bulls, Suns, Magic, Atlanta, Cavs, Celtics, Hornets, Portland, Bobcats, Nuggets, Heat and Rockets.

[Dr. Evil]

What's the over/under on Kevin Durant remaining with Oklahoma City?

[Go Web Go!]

He's stuck there for at least another 2 or 3 years for sure, and even when his rookie deal runs up I believe he'll be a restricted FA, so it'll still be difficult for him to skip town. He's a bad little player though. It's a shame he doesn't get the recognition he deserves.

[Mister J]

If Green and Westbrook continue to keep it going, he might not be that inclined to leave. As compared to their abysmal start, they'd played OK ball, for a young team, as of late. With that team being fairly pedestrian, Durant hasn't received the press he should.

Heat Will Retire Mourning's Jersey (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3942715)
MIAMI -- Alonzo Mourning's jersey will soon hang over the Miami Heat's home floor.

The Heat will retire Mourning's No. 33 in a halftime ceremony March 30, when Miami hosts the Orlando Magic. His will be the first Heat jersey to be retired by the team, which has previously put the numbers of Michael Jordan and Dan Marino on the arena wall.

But it's long been Miami's plan to make Mourning the first Heat player to receive the honor.

"It's fitting that he has the first jersey retired in the Heat arena," guard Dwyane Wade said before Miami hosted the New York Knicks on Saturday night. "You think Alonzo, you think of Miami. To see his jersey in the rafters will mean a lot to every player who comes through here. He's kind of what this organization stands for."

Mourning was part of Miami's NBA championship in 2006, a seven-time All-Star and two-time NBA defensive player of the year. He finished with career averages of 17.1 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.8 blocked shots, and still has a space assigned to him in the Heat locker room -- although now it's primarily used by his son Trey, a Miami ballboy.

"It's a great privilege and it will be an incredible honor for the Miami Heat on the night of March 30," said Heat president Pat Riley, who coached Mourning in Miami and developed a special bond with the center. "That's the night the number 33 will become truly significant with this franchise and the name that goes with it, Alonzo Mourning, will be hung from the rafters forever."

Mourning suffered what essentially amounted to a career-ending injury on Dec. 19, 2007 -- the fourth anniversary of his lifesaving kidney transplant.

He tried to return this season for one final campaign, but retired for good on Jan. 22.

South Florida will remain Mourning's home base, and his passion -- Alonzo Mourning Charities -- will continue raising money for disadvantaged children in the area. So far, his annual Zo's Summer Groove series of fundraisers -- which he now co-headlines alongside Wade -- have alone raised more than $7 million.

"When you think of the Miami Heat ... I would say the majority of the people think of Alonzo Mourning, first and foremost," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. "What he's been able to accomplish outside the court and what he's been able to give to people of need as inspiration, I think it's even a bigger story than what he's done on the court."

Riley said more jerseys will be added to the rafters in the future, to hang alongside Mourning.

"His will be the first," Riley said. "It won't be the last."

Finally, an jersey retirement of an actual Heat player. :woot:
There's not a more deserving player in frnachise history. I think Timmy will be next.

[Bond]

The Mavs are playing the Raptors tonight. The Raptors have hit a 3-pointer in an NBA record 838 consecutive games. The Mavericks are right behind at 832. You have to go back to the first three months of 1999 to find when they didn't.

[Dr. Evil]

Oklahoma City needs to win by 2010-2011 or Durant may want out of there. Market size of an NBA city doesn't matter if that team wins. New Orleans and Utah aren't the biggest markets out there, but both are winning, which is why Chris Paul and Deron Williams signed extensions before the season. If the Thunder make it to the NBA playoffs by their 3rd season there (2010-2011), Durant will be there for the next 5 or 6 years. Otherwise they become Memphis.

[Caped Crusader]

Pistons playing good :D

[Caped Crusader]

2 nice wins for my Pistons (Magic & Celtics)

[Go Web Go!]

Finally, an jersey retirement of an actual Heat player. :woot:
There's not a more deserving player in frnachise history. I think Timmy will be next.

Seriously. It annoys me every time that I go to a game & see Jordan's jersey plastered on the wall - and though I love Marino, seeing his aqua football jersey on the opposite side of the building probably annoys me even more. But I don't think those numbers are necessarily ''retired'' Alexander Johnson wore #13 last season, so it's obviously not retired. I think people just assume they are because they're displayed in the arena. The Heat do have way too much banner clutter. They need to get rid of those division title banners or just have one or 2 showing the seasons which they won one. They have a banner for their ex-trainer, for God's sake! :huh:

[Lobo]

If Green and Westbrook continue to keep it going, he might not be that inclined to leave. As compared to their abysmal start, they'd played OK ball, for a young team, as of late. With that team being fairly pedestrian, Durant hasn't received the press he should.

Heat Will Retire Mourning's Jersey (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3942715)

Finally, an jersey retirement of an actual Heat player. :woot:
There's not a more deserving player in frnachise history. I think Timmy will be next.

He deserves it, and Timmy is a good call for the next :up:

I'm betting one day #3 will be up there, too.

[Mister J]

Seriously. It annoys me every time that I go to a game & see Jordan's jersey plastered on the wall - and though I love Marino, seeing his aqua football jersey on the opposite side of the building probably annoys me even more. But I don't think those numbers are necessarily ''retired'' Alexander Johnson wore #13 last season, so it's obviously not retired. I think people just assume they are because they're displayed in the arena. The Heat do have way too much banner clutter. They need to get rid of those division title banners or just have one or 2 showing the seasons which they won one. They have a banner for their ex-trainer, for God's sake! :huh:
As much as I love Danny, the Marino thing is particularly wacky, because it's an entirely different sport. Just have a ceremony and give the guy a plaque somewhere in the arena.

However, I don't expect to see anyone wearing #23
'In honor of your greatness and for all you've done for the game of basketball -- and not just the NBA, but for all the fans around the world -- we want to honor you tonight and hang your jersey, No. 23, from the rafters,'' Riley said at midcourt. ''No one will ever wear No. 23 for the Miami Heat (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/clubhouse?team=mia). You're the best.'
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/recap?gameId=230411014

Don't forget the recent banners for the team's Olympians. This is why it's goodto get the official word on Zo. For a while, I thought they'd raise a banner for any All-Star Weekend accolades received before the #33 went up.

He deserves it, and Timmy is a good call for the next :up:

I'm betting one day #3 will be up there, too.
I think Riles should offer Wade a special wing in the arena if he resigns in 2010. Whatever it takes.

[Lobo]

I think he'll stay with you guys. Unfortunately, I think James stays in Cleveland, too.

[Go Web Go!]

However, I don't expect to see anyone wearing #23

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/recap?gameId=230411014


Blehhh. I do remember reading that Riley quote back in '03/'04 now that you bring it up. I'm not digging it. Never did, but at least it's no longer the half Bulls, half Wizards jersey hanging up there. That was plain tacky.

Don't forget the recent banners for the team's Olympians. This is why it's goodto get the official word on Zo. For a while, I thought they'd raise a banner for any All-Star Weekend accolades received before the #33 went up.

Sadly, I can picture a banner for the 3 guys who've won the shoot-out, a banner for Wade's back-to-back Skills challenge wins, and of course, Harold Miner's (or Baby Jordan as they called him) Slam Dunk title. :csad:

I hope to be there for the Zo ceremony, and now that he's up they can go ahead & stick Timmy up there within the next couple of years.

[Ghostvirus]

Bulls are still going no where my friend. Hate to break it to ya.

I was going to instult your team, but I soon realised I don't have a 20 sided dice.

That was some nasty stuff by D-Rose in the 4th.

The Bulls seem to be Gellin right now. I like it. I am not sure that they will make the playoffs this year, but I do like where they are going. Plus no one has mentioned they traded Thabo for Da Thunders first Round pick this year, so there is a high probability that they could have a high pick again this year.:up:

[Raiden]

It's official: the Lakers are in a flunk and except for Kobe and Gasol, everyone is on ice. So much for shooting for securing homecourt throughout the playoff.

[Go Web Go!]

Losing 2 games won't kill their season. Don't press the panic button just yet. It's only March 1st.

[Ghostvirus]

Shaq is playing like a monster. I wonder if he could sneak in, & snag MVP if he keeps going this way?

[Go Web Go!]

Yeah, probably not. LeBron, Kobe, and Wade all deserve it more than Shaq and on top of that, the Suns may not even make the playoffs.

I'm glad Shaq's having a good year. You don't want to see a guy who has done what he has for the league fade away as he appeared to do last season, but at the same time, I'm annoyed for this reason: It's now obvious he tanked his last half-season PLUS with the Heat, and for that I lose quite a bit of respect for the guy. Not because he happened to be on a team that I root for, but because he got his title (thanks to Wade, by the way) and from then on took the "I/we can turn it on at anytime/for the playoffs" and showed how damn lazy he was by doing the exact opposite. The Heat got off to a terrible start last season & he just appeared to say "**** it."

The guy then gets traded to Phoenix and what does he do? "Turns it on" - dives for balls, plays defense - everything he refused to do in Miami. Look at him this year: An All-Star yet again and putting up numbers he hasn't put up since his Laker days. If there's anything that can put a blemish on Shaq's accomplishments it's this. Oh, and the fact that he trashes organizations & players on the way out. Rant ovaaa.

[Raiden]

Yeah, probably not. LeBron, Kobe, and Wade all deserve it more than Shaq and on top of that, the Suns may not even make the playoffs.

I'm glad Shaq's having a good year. You don't want to see a guy who has done what he has for the league fade away as he appeared to do last season, but at the same time, I'm annoyed for this reason: It's now obvious he tanked his last half-season PLUS with the Heat, and for that I lose quite a bit of respect for the guy. Not because he happened to be on a team that I root for, but because he got his title (thanks to Wade, by the way) and from then on took the "I/we can turn it on at anytime/for the playoffs" and showed how damn lazy he was by doing the exact opposite. The Heat got off to a terrible start last season & he just appeared to say "**** it."

The guy then gets traded to Phoenix and what does he do? "Turns it on" - dives for balls, plays defense - everything he refused to do in Miami. Look at him this year: An All-Star yet again and putting up numbers he hasn't put up since his Laker days. If there's anything that can put a blemish on Shaq's accomplishments it's this. Oh, and the fact that he trashes organizations & players on the way out. Rant ovaaa.

It is this reason why Jerry Buss didn't feel that he deserved the big contract to stay as a Laker, because he was constantly overweight and refused to hustle. When he went to Miami, he suddenly played like an All-Star and called Wade his best "one-two punch" buddy yet (even though he won 3 titles with Kobe). Of course, after Shaq won the title he went back to his old, lazy self again. Heat fans are ranting against him, just like Lakers fans used to do.

[Nightmare]

Drew Gooden and Joe Smith got bought out by their teams.

Joe Smith is Rumored to be going to the Cavs and Gooden may be going to the Spurs. As a Laker fan, id like to see them try to sign Gooden as a back up to odom/pau. Probably just wishfull thinking though.

[Raiden]

Drew Gooden and Joe Smith got bought out by their teams.

Joe Smith is Rumored to be going to the Cavs and Gooden may be going to the Spurs. As a Laker fan, id like to see them try to sign Gooden as a back up to odom/pau. Probably just wishfull thinking though.

I think after tanking for two straight games, it won't be a bad idea to bring someone in for the playoff, like what Celtics have done.

[Nightmare]

Yeah, the past two games the bench has been atrocious.

[Go Web Go!]

It is this reason why Jerry Buss didn't feel that he deserved the big contract to stay as a Laker, because he was constantly overweight and refused to hustle. When he went to Miami, he suddenly played like an All-Star and called Wade his best "one-two punch" buddy yet (even though he won 3 titles with Kobe). Of course, after Shaq won the title he went back to his old, lazy self again. Heat fans are ranting against him, just like Lakers fans used to do.

That's how it goes. Pat Riley was the best coach ever, Wade was the best sidekick he's ever had, it goes on & on - then it was all about Phil & Kobe being the best during the lovefest that was AS weekend '09.

I don't have anything against the guy, really. I'm not hoping he fails in Phoenix and at any other spot he may land along the way, but yeah, I saw exactly what Laker fans saw towards the end of his tenure with the Heat and don't care much for it. He comes back to town for the first time since the trade on Wednesday. I'm curious to see how he'll be received.

[Nightmare]

After Shaquille O'Neal scored 45 against Toronto on Friday, Raptors star Chris Bosh said O'Neal had benefited from officials ignoring his three-second lane violations.

"I heard what Chris Bosh said, and that's strong words coming from the RuPaul of big men," O'Neal said. "I'm going to do the same thing (in their next meeting) I did before - make him quit. Make 'em quit and complain. It's what I do."

O'Neal is the only NBA player other than Stephon Marbury and Bernard King to record 40-point games with four NBA teams.


http://www.azcentral.com/sports/suns/articles/2009/03/01/20090301sunsoneal-CR.html

[Caped Crusader]

haha. ouch, strong words

[Go Web Go!]

That is pretty harsh, though I think Ziggyman agrees.

[Ghostvirus]

Yeah I think Wade should get the MVP just because he is literally carrying that team on his back.

[Mister J]

Jeebus, Shaq. RuPaul? :eek: :funny:

As it relates to the he left Miami, it was pretty clear he didn't want to be there any longer. He did take a little too much flak for the team's ****ty performance, with a hobbled Wade and the dearth of other talent (specifically no outside shooting). There was only so much that he was to be able to accomplish with the opposition constantly collapsing on him. He could have been a trooper, but he chose otherwise, emerging with some rejuvenation in Phoenix when on a better team (and when he was offered the same medical attention in Miami).

I don't have a problem with the guy either. He had some (deservedly) harsh comments for Chris Quinn and Ricky Davis upon leaving, but nothing in particular about Riley or Wade. I even heard him drop another 'the great Pat Riley' remark during All-Star Weekend. Even if his departure was as ugly as it was in LA, it wouldn't register that much with me. It's Shaq. He's says a lot of ****. Then later (sometimes, much later), he gets to cracking jokes and seems to smooth it over. I'm appreciate of the Diesel brought in his time as a Heatian and I'd definitely clap it up for him if I was attendance at the game this week.

[empire]

It's official: the Lakers are in a flunk and except for Kobe and Gasol, everyone is on ice. So much for shooting for securing homecourt throughout the playoff.
The Lakers will get home court through the playoffs and if not, they happen to be one of the best road teams this season.

Lakers all season have not lost 3 straight. They will win their next game cause its against the Grizzlies. :woot::woot::woot:

[Raiden]

The Lakers will get home court through the playoffs and if not, they happen to be one of the best road teams this season.

Lakers all season have not lost 3 straight. They will win their next game cause its against the Grizzlies. :woot::woot::woot:

I can excuse their loss vs Nuggets because they arrived at 4AM, but tanking against Suns was inexcusable. As for Grizzlies, I hope they will indeed beat them and end their losing streak, but then again Lakers have been known to drop games against bad teams this season as well (Bobcats). At any rate, I don't think Lakers should be idle and let Celtics, Cavs, etc. get better by picking up talents from the waiver list. If they can improve, then they should do it.

[Silver Knight]

Cavs v Hawks was a good game.

[Caped Crusader]

Iverson to the bench. Rip back to starting

:up:

[Silver Knight]

Iverson to the bench. Rip back to starting

:up:
Pistons back wining.

[Mister J]

Stomach punch loss against Cleveland tonight. Simply not enough surrounding talent to counter the late double teams on Wade. ****ing sucks to piss away a lead like that down the stretch.

Damn good game though.

[Lobo]

Yes, pissing away leads suck :csad:

[Silver Knight]

Cavs won? Heat were up by 10 or so were they not?

[Excel]

Cavs won? Heat were up by 10 or so were they not?

LBJ's 3 ball kept them in it until Mo Williams shot finally started to fall.

[Go Web Go!]

Some iffy officiating tonight, but the Heat's problem wasn't the stripes, it was the fact that they don't have anyone other than Wade that can help close out a game. It's encouraging to see Miami hang with the #1 team in the East through all 3 of their games against Cleveland this year with the 4th coming up on Saturday, but they really need to learn how to hold leads - especially at home. Shaq's back in town Wednesday. Here's hoping Wade drops another 40 on the big guy, including a few throw downs.

[LastSunrise1981]

Iverson to the bench. Rip back to starting

:up:

I wouldn't be surprised if Iverson was done for the season with his back so he can avoid being on the bench. Remember the huge stink he created before about coming off the bench.

Dallas wins against Toronto and then loses to the Thunder. How in the world do they lose to the Thunders? Oh well. Looks like it's going to take Dallas sometime to get used to Carlisle's system and maybe during the off-season they can make some necessary moves. They need to get younger, more athletic, and more defense oriented.

[Go Web Go!]

Here's a Shaq/Dwight Howard story from the Orlando Sentinel (complete with some jabs Shaq took at DH) in preparation for their meeting tonight.

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard put his hands to his face to retrace the most recent souvenirs from a hard life in the paint.

He had a long, jagged blood-dried scratch stretching from his right ear to across his jawbone. He ran a finger above his left eye where he recently had three stitches.

Howard then stuck out his chin and presented a stiff upper lip.

"I'm like a soldier. I'm a warrior," he said, before breaking into a fake crying routine, lamenting the loss of his good looks. "It messed up my pretty face! The wounds will heal."

Howard won't exchange body blows with Phoenix Suns center Shaquille O'Neal until tonight when the Magic centers, past and present, collide at Amway Arena. But he already was genuinely hurt a little by some recent comments that the Big Cactus has made about him.

"I try not to think about it. Some of the things I hear, I am shocked to hear him say that," said Howard, his trademark smile gone.

What has Shaq said?

Well, it's all pretty much a variation on the same adolescent theme: I'm the original NBA Superman and Dwight can't carry my, er, cape.

"You know, it's normal for a kid to copycat his idol, but you know he can never be this good," Shaq has said.

Shaq was asked by CBSSports.com's Ken Berger recently if Howard was the closest thing to being the next Shaq. O'Neal scoffed.

"No. Not at all. He's a good player. He can jump. But no," he said. "I was the type of player that they had to have secret meetings and change the rules and do all that. Probably never be another me. He's a good player, but everything he's done, I've invented. So I'm not impressed."

Sports Illustrated asked O'Neal — who sports a Superman tattoo and often wears Superman pajama bottoms to practice — whether Howard's Superman shtick bothered him.

"Doesn't bother me. I can't be impressed by something I invented in '92 [his first year in Orlando]. I mean, you look at what he is doing, I've been there and done that," O'Neal said. "Every street he is driving down in Orlando, I have been on that street. Every nightclub, every restaurant. ... I have been there and done that.

"Until he wins three, four championships, then we can talk about him. But right now, he is just like every other big guy: 'You can run and jump, but you haven't won yet.' "

Ouch. Ouch. And ouch.

Oh, and let us not forget the sight of Shaq bouncing a pass between Howard's legs during the all-star game, leaving Dwight red-faced.

Of course, it just might be Shaq being Shaq. He has always been a giant entertainment center, flooding the league with pro wrestling-type propaganda.

He's The Big Tweaker. Ask favorite target Kobe and, most recently, Toronto's Chris Bosh, whom Shaq called "the RuPaul of big men."

Before being asked about Shaq's comments, Howard, 23, praised the play of The Big Comeback this season. He said he even taped the Suns' game on Sunday against the L.A. Lakers and watched it twice, scouting the newly forceful Shaq, who turns 37 on Friday.

O'Neal scored 45 points in a win against the Raptors and 33 to beat Kobe and the Lakers, who, oddly enough, began Shaq's '09 Reunion Tour. After facing the Magic tonight, the Big Diesel motors to Miami for a game on Wednesday against the Heat.

" I can't stop Shaq from saying anything. I just wouldn't expect that coming from him," Howard said. "But the only thing I would expect from him is that he would try to help me improve my game and that's it."

Has he?

"No," Howard said.

"Like all the other big guys [do], you know, like Hakeem [Olajuwon], Pat Ewing, Dikembe [Mutombo], Bill Russell, David Robinson ... tried to help me improve. ... Taking shots at somebody else, I wouldn't do that."

Howard said he expected some helpful "comments to come from Shaq," but added that the only advice he received has been basically useless.

"He just tells me to get the ball. That's the thing. If you don't get the ball, stand in the lane for three seconds until they give it to you," Howard said, laughing. "That's about the biggest piece of advice I've gotten from him."

True, he can't stop Shaq from saying anything, and Dwight concedes trying to stop him on the court is like "moving a car when the parking brake's on." But Howard might have some extra motivation tonight when Superman I meets Superman II.



I'll admit that I've grown tired of the whole "Superman" act by Dwight for the fact that it's been done & is still being done by Shaq, but the Shaqtus doesn't need to sweep a kid like Dwight under the rug.

[Mister J]

His recently improved play has seemed to rejuvenate the Shaq Mouth Machine. The guy has always been particularly defensive about his legacy or comparing someone else to him. Most of the time, he has a point. Shaq being Shaq. Eh.

[LastSunrise1981]

I've been very impressed by Shaq as of late. No idea what's gotten into him to begin playing like he did in his prime. Now if he could just make his free throws on a consistent basis. :oldrazz:

[Raiden]

I've been very impressed by Shaq as of late. No idea what's gotten into him to begin playing like he did in his prime. Now if he could just make his free throws on a consistent basis. :oldrazz:

That'll never happen. You can't teach old dog new trick. :o

[Mister J]

Shaq is actually shooting FT's at a career-high 63% this year, much better than his 52% average coming into the season, and is near 70% since the new year, hence the Shaqovic nickname he christened himself with.

[Docker2.0]

Shaq's improved play has a lot to do with Stoudemire going down. Shaq was trying to hard to get Amare involved and Amare was to busy complaining about being the man. NYK need to go to do something to get Chandler more shots and get Harrington's ballhogging arse out of there. I haven't seen this much selfish play since Marbury played for the Nets.

[Lobo]

That'll never happen. You can't teach old dog new trick. :o

As someone who works with dogs on a daily basis, you can. Still, you can't teach Shaq to be consistent from the line.

[Caped Crusader]

Tough to see Billups play against Detroit..

But we won again so thats good :up:

[Mister J]

They gave him his old Pistons introduction too. Classy.

[Ziggyman]

Dammit...My season's over!

[Mister J]

Some quick clean-up from the recent buyouts:

Agent: Head Chooses Miami (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3949847)
Luther Head, the combo guard who was recently bought out by the Houston Rockets, will sign with the Miami Heat, according to his agent.

Head will sign once he clears waivers Wednesday morning. He was courted by Dallas, New Jersey, Charlotte, Milwaukee and San Antonio but chose Miami because of the chance for playing time, the opportunity to make a nice playoff run and the possibility of staying with the Heat over the long haul.

Head averaged 4.8 points and 1.6 assists in 22 games with the Rockets this season.
Sources: Gooden to Join Spurs
(http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3949639)
Barring an unforeseen snag, Drew Gooden will be joining the San Antonio Spurs later this week, according to NBA front-office sources.

Sources told ESPN.com on Tuesday that Gooden -- waived Sunday by the Sacramento Kings before the midnight deadline to be eligibile to play in the playoffs with another team -- has made known his intent to sign with San Antonio after clearing waivers Wednesday.

Gooden was pursued by several playoff-bound teams this week, including San Antonio's divisional rivals in Dallas and New Orleans.

But the Spurs have nearly $1.5 million remaining from their mid-level salary-cap exception to offer Gooden for the rest of the season, as well as a shot at title contention.


Sources: Smith Will Sign With Cavs
(http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3949657)
Joe Smith has informed the Cleveland Cavaliers that he plans to sign with them after clearing waivers Wednesday, according to NBA front-office sources.

Word of Smith's commitment began to spread Tuesday night, but the Cavs have been the heavy favorites to land the No. 1 overall pick from the 1995 draft since Smith was waived Sunday night by the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Cleveland has nearly $3.5 million of its midlevel salary-cap exception remaining to offer Smith as well as a hole in its frontcourt rotation after Ben Wallace's injury last week.

The Cavs dealt for Smith at the trading deadline in February 2008 but had to part with him over the summer in the three-way trade with Milwaukee and Oklahoma City to acquire All-Star guard Mo Williams.

[Go Web Go!]

Good. Miami could use some depth at PG, whoever it may be.

[Mister J]

No more Quinn. :up:

OK, who saw Shaq try to flop against Dwight tonight? Weak sauce, Diesel! :D

[Docker2.0]

Good. Miami could use some depth at PG, whoever it may be.

Then they shouldve pursued Marbury! :cmad: :csad:

Anyone hear about the WB stopping the NBA from putting out the Nate Robinson kryptonite shirts becuase they wanted a part of the action. Talk about frivilous. :whatever:

[R_3]

Any Raptors fans frustrated with this new TSN2? I hate not being able to watch RuPaul and the rest of the Raps.

[Ziggyman]

Any Raptors fans frustrated with this new TSN2? I hate not being able to watch RuPaul and the rest of the Raps.

Yeah...TSN2 F'n sucks major balls my friend!

The only positive thing coming from TSN2 is that I think we've lost almost every game...So...Maybe stop airing games there!:cwink:

[Go Web Go!]

Then they shouldve pursued Marbury! :cmad: :csad:

Anyone hear about the WB stopping the NBA from putting out the Nate Robinson kryptonite shirts becuase they wanted a part of the action. Talk about frivilous. :whatever:

I don't have a problem with it. Look at it from DC's eyes - how long are you going to allow a couple of athletes to use something associated with your company before trying to put a stop to it? It's all fun with the cute nicknames & such, (Superman, Krypto-Nate), but when the NBA tries to start selling t-shirts & pocket that cash on their own DC has to step in.

[Silver Knight]

Tough to see Billups play against Detroit..

But we won again so thats good :up:
How was he recieved? Any boos? I sure hope not.

[R_3]

Yeah...TSN2 F'n sucks major balls my friend!

The only positive thing coming from TSN2 is that I think we've lost almost every game...So...Maybe stop airing games there!:cwink:

Haha - very true.

[Silver Knight]

I don't have a problem with it. Look at it from DC's eyes - how long are you going to allow a couple of athletes to use something associated with your company before trying to put a stop to it? It's all fun with the cute nicknames & such, (Superman, Krypto-Nate), but when the NBA tries to start selling t-shirts & pocket that cash on their own DC has to step in.
Agreed Sir.

[Kargo Warrior]

How was he recieved? Any boos? I sure hope not.

Actually quite the opposite...he was welcomed and received with an ovation :word:

3 in a row and all of them against tough opposition...and the ''answer'' is not playing...how ironic.

[Go Web Go!]

- And AI is out for another 2 weeks, so the Pistons just may continue to win after losing 8 in a row.

[Caped Crusader]

- And AI is out for another 2 weeks, so the Pistons just may continue to win after losing 8 in a row.

:up:

[Nightmare]

- And AI is out for another 2 weeks, so the Pistons just may continue to win after losing 8 in a row.

Till he comes back..

Pistons will make the playoffs, likely the 7th or 8th seed then get swept on the first round.

[Go Web Go!]

Mr. O'Neal is at it again -

MIAMI -- Shaquille O'Neal flopped against Orlando center Dwight Howard. Now he's standing up to Magic coach Stan Van Gundy.

Responding to Van Gundy's reaction about O'Neal's tactics against Howard on Tuesday night, the Phoenix center lashed out at his former coach with the Miami Heat, calling him "a master of panic" and "a frontrunner."

"One thing I really despise is a frontrunner," O'Neal said before the Suns played the Heat, Shaq's first time back in Miami since last season's trade. "I know for a fact he's a master of panic and when it gets time for his team to go into the postseason and do certain things, he will let them down because of his panic. I've been there before. I've played for him."

O'Neal was guarding Howard with about 4 minutes left in the third quarter Tuesday night. Howard made a spin move, O'Neal fell to the court in an effort to get an offensive foul called, and the Magic center easily dunked with two hands.

Afterward, Van Gundy said he was "shocked, seriously shocked and very disappointed because he knows what it's like. Let's stand up and play like men, and I think our guy did that."

O'Neal, who typically does not talk before Suns games, didn't hold back when asked for his reaction. He played for Van Gundy in Miami for parts of two seasons and openly complained about coaching decisions in the 2005 Eastern Conference finals, when the Heat lost Game 7 at home to the Detroit Pistons.

"Flopping is playing like that your whole career," O'Neal said. "I was trying to take a charge, trying to get a call. Yeah, it probably was a flop, but flopping is wrong. Flopping would describe his coaching."

[Ghostvirus]

Wow you would think Shaq was the first person to flop in history.dry:

[BigSams50]

Shaq talks waay to much man. He's just jelous of all the press dhoward's gettin

[Go Web Go!]

Wow you would think Shaq was the first person to flop in history.dry:

It's getting too much coverage, but that's only because Shaq was always the one to go after everyone who flopped while guarding him, an anti-flopper, and there he was doing the same last night.

[Go Web Go!]

Pretty good game thus far between MIA/PHX. They also just mentioned on the telecast that the Heat signed Stromile Swift.

[Mister J]

Swift signed with Phoenix.

I'm not used to all these points in a half for Miami. I like it. Some defense to lessen their 64% FG would be nice though.

[Silver Knight]

Shaq wildin out right now. Dude need to chill.

[Go Web Go!]

Swift signed with Phoenix.

I'm not used to all these points in a half for Miami. I like it. Some defense to lessen their 64% FG would be nice though.

Yeah, I just realized that now. I must have misheard the broadcast while multi-tasking.

Another good game from start to finish. Luckily, the Heat came out on top tonight. Sick performance by Wade, but that goes without saying, and career high's from Beasley & Cook. Moon was also impressive on (I think) 7/8 shooting - including a sick dunk. Can't ask for more than that. Jermaine O'Neal needs to pick his game up, and James Jones needs to polish things up a bit. It's clear he isn't quite 100% after the wrist injury/surgery. Back to back against Toronto & Cleveland coming up next.

[danielisthor]

Wild game. Don't remember the last time the Heat scored that many points. Glad the Heat won and great game by Wade, Beasley and Cook.

[Silver Knight]

Yeah, I just realized that now. I must have misheard the broadcast while multi-tasking.

Another good game from start to finish. Luckily, the Heat came out on top tonight. Sick performance by Wade, but that goes without saying, and career high's from Beasley & Cook. Moon was also impressive on (I think) 7/8 shooting - including a sick dunk. Can't ask for more than that. Jermaine O'Neal needs to pick his game up, and James Jones needs to polish things up a bit. It's clear he isn't quite 100% after the wrist injury/surgery. Back to back against Toronto & Cleveland coming up next.
Good win for you guys.

[Mister J]

Flash has been beyond ridiculous lately. 35/6/16 tonight.

I could get spoiled on this type of offense. Phoenix's pace surely contributed, but Miami's execution and sets were crisp tonight.

[Lobo]

Flash=MVP

[Mister J]

I see the Knicks beat the Hawks. Sweet

I can entertain these thoughts on the 4 seed a while longer.

[Go Web Go!]

Miami's only a game & 1/2 behind the 4 spot. Here's hoping the Hawks go on a slide.

By the way, are these Los Spurs/Los Mavs unis really necessary? Can't wait to watch El Heat vs. Los Bulls Monday night. Yikes.

[Silver Knight]

Flash=MVP
Did Lebron retire?

[Lobo]

Nope. Let's see if he gets his ring this year, though. Look at Wade's numbers they are INSANE

[Go Web Go!]

Did Lebron retire?

Watch the man play. He does more than LeBron does with way less of a supporting cast. That's not homerism. That's the truth.