Official 2008-09 NBA Thread

[Darthphere]

Flash=MVP

Did Lebron retire?

They really need to change the MVP to best player in the league award because the Valuable in MVP is really lost on some people.

Point blank, Dwayne Wade is the MVP. Not because I'm a homer but because he is.

The Cavs were expected to be in the Conference Championship this year, and that's mostly because of Lebron.

The Lakers were from the start the favorites to represent the West, mostly because of Kobe.

Nobody, I mean NOBODY expected the Heat to be a 5, possible 4 seed this year in the playoffs. That's all because of D-Wade. You can argue about the additions of Beasley and some other guys, but D-Wade has put that team on his back, leads the league in scoring and is the most valuable player in the league right now.

The three frontrunners for the MVP all have the same attribute, their teams cannot win without them, but for Kobe and Lebron, they were expected to win, nobody expected the Heat to do anything this season. That's why IMHO, Dwayne Wade is the MVP.

[Lobo]

That 4th quarter performance against NY was a perfect showcase of why he is.

[LastSunrise1981]

I think the MVP this year is going to come down to Kobe and possibly Lebron.

[LastSunrise1981]

New Orleans and Dallas on right now. Should be an interesting game and I'm surprised to see us close with them at this moment.

One thing I've noticed is Dallas isn't boxing out on defensive and offensive rebounds, plus their defense needs to get more efficient and more physical once Chris Paul starts heating up.

[Mister J]

Chris Paul was absolutely filthy in the 2nd half, particularly the 3rd quarter. It's rare to see a PG be able to take a game over the way he can.

[Silver Knight]

My dude CP3 killed the game tonight.

[Silver Knight]

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.
Dude I respect Wade. He is a monster.
I would be cool with co-MVP's to be honest with you.

[Go Web Go!]

Wade drops 42 on the Raptors. O'Neal & Marion MIA for the most part against their formers teams. Nothing new, I guess. Hawks also lost, so the Heat are now a 1/2 game behind the 4 spot heading into Cleveland tomorrow night. I won't be able to see that one. Dammit.

[Mister J]

JO's shot was off, but the 8 rebounds/4 blocks was big. That was probably the quietest that Moon has been since the trade. He can make up for it by chasing LeBron around tomorrow.

D-Wade; 42/6/8. It's been insanity these last couple of weeks, even considering the high level he was already playing at.

Now, I can enjoy the rest of this Boston/Cleveland game.

[Ziggyman]

Please STOP!!!

:csad:

[Excel]

They really need to change the MVP to best player in the league award because the Valuable in MVP is really lost on some people.

Point blank, Dwayne Wade is the MVP. Not because I'm a homer but because he is.

The Cavs were expected to be in the Conference Championship this year, and that's mostly because of Lebron.

The Lakers were from the start the favorites to represent the West, mostly because of Kobe.

Nobody, I mean NOBODY expected the Heat to be a 5, possible 4 seed this year in the playoffs. That's all because of D-Wade. You can argue about the additions of Beasley and some other guys, but D-Wade has put that team on his back, leads the league in scoring and is the most valuable player in the league right now.

The three frontrunners for the MVP all have the same attribute, their teams cannot win without them, but for Kobe and Lebron, they were expected to win, nobody expected the Heat to do anything this season. That's why IMHO, Dwayne Wade is the MVP.

By this logic LeBron should have been MVP the past 2 seasons. Its becoming clearer to everybody how horribly robbed LeBron was last season; this is make up year. Wade is filthy, but LeBron is both better and more valuable.

[Go Web Go!]

By this logic LeBron should have been MVP the past 2 seasons. Its becoming clearer to everybody how horribly robbed LeBron was last season; this is make up year. Wade is filthy, but LeBron is both better and more valuable.

I think Chris Paul was the one who was robbed last season.

As for James being more valuable to his team than Wade: take Wade away from the Heat & you have another 15 win season. Take LeBron away from the Cavs and they're with the Milwaukees & Chicagos of the world, a middle of the pack team. Cleveland wouldn't be terrible without LeBron, should he miss a few games. He's surrounded by veterans on that team that can pick up the slack if that's what it came down to. Can the same be said about Wade? Probably not. The man carries a team full of avarage NBA players & first or 2nd year guys on his back night in & night out.

[Ghostvirus]

Bulls picked up a win tonight. After the trades their average game score has gone up dramatically. I like where this is going. Also intense game between the Celts, & Cavs. Good rivalry there!

[Silver Knight]

Bobcats, Warriors and 76'ers are all getting new uniforms next season.

[Ghostvirus]

But yet the economy is affecting the NBA?:huh:

[Go Web Go!]

Bobcats, Warriors and 76'ers are all getting new uniforms next season.

Where'd you hear that? I knew about the 76ers, but not the others. The Bobcats sure can use a change. Yikes. I


Yes, I'm a uni buff. :o

[Silver Knight]

Im a uni buff as well.
I saw the 09/10 Adidas catalog and it stated the 3 teams will be getting new unis and ATL is getting an alternate which I think will be red.

[Go Web Go!]

Well, alrighty then. Thanks for the tip. ;)

[Silver Knight]

No worries. Hope the Bobcats get a whole new look and brand new colours. The orange and blue is bad imo.

[Go Web Go!]

Not only are the colors terrible, but the logo is as well. As Steve Kerr once put it, and I'm paraphrasing: "They look like a girls soft ball team."

[Silver Knight]

Agree. Hopefully we see the new look shortly after the season ends. I have a feeling they will go for teal since the Hornets no longer use teal.

[Go Web Go!]

I doubt that. The Hornets still use something similar to teal, and when you think "Bobcat" you don't exactly think this, do you?

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b368/dw85/TealPorcelainCatFigurine.jpg

[Silver Knight]

True lol! But no other teams use a light shade of green. I hope its not another navy red combo.

[Excel]

Thank god we got Marbury [/sarcasm]

I think Chris Paul was the one who was robbed last season.

As for James being more valuable to his team than Wade: take Wade away from the Heat & you have another 15 win season. Take LeBron away from the Cavs and they're with the Milwaukees & Chicagos of the world, a middle of the pack team. Cleveland wouldn't be terrible without LeBron, should he miss a few games. He's surrounded by veterans on that team that can pick up the slack if that's what it came down to. Can the same be said about Wade? Probably not. The man carries a team full of avarage NBA players & first or 2nd year guys on his back night in & night out.

That doesnt make any sense. How does Chris Paul get it over LBJ last year when LeBron was more important to that team than Wade is to this years Heat?

LeBron is obviously the best all around player in the NBA anybody saying otherwise is a hater; and for once hes on the best team. Theres no way he doesnt get it.

Than again, he had the starts argument AND the "value to team" argument on his side last year compared to Kobe, Paul, and Garnett, yet came in 4th in voting :wow:

[R_3]

BoOoOoOoOo! The Raptors played at home at 12:30 in the afternoon against a visiting Western Conference team on the day of daylight savings and still lost. To take away the pain, I'm moving to Calgary where the sport of basketball doesn't exist.

[Go Web Go!]

Well, they did play the NBA's hottest team. The Jazz came in with a 10 or 11 game winning streak.

[Go Web Go!]

WALTHAM, Mass. -- The Boston Celtics' biggest opponent right now is the training room.

The Celtics will not dress five players when they play at the Miami Heat on Wednesday night.

Coach Doc Rivers on Monday ruled out Rajon Rondo and Glen "Big Baby" Davis after both sprained their right ankles over the weekend. Rondo was hurt in Friday's 105-94 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers and Davis in Sunday's 86-79 loss to the Orlando Magic.

They join superstar Kevin Garnett, Brian Scalabrine and Tony Allen on the sidelines. Garnett has a sprained right knee and Allen has an injured left thumb. Scalabrine has post-concussion syndrome.

Rivers said he expects Davis and Rondo to miss at least the next two games. After Miami, Boston hosts the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday and plays at the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday


If Miami can't beat the Celtics Wednesday then they probably should relenquish that 4 or 5 spot they're likely to end up with.

[Mister J]

I recall getting excited about similar news last year. Garnett and Allen didn't play, Pierce had some ailment and only scored 7 ...and the Heat still managed to lose by 30 ...at home. Toss in the fact that seemingly every game Miami plays is a close one and I'm pretty stoic on this one.

[Excel]

Ray and Leon will save us :up: :up:

[Go Web Go!]

I recall getting excited about similar news last year. Garnett and Allen didn't play, Pierce had some ailment and only scored 7 ...and the Heat still managed to lose by 30 ...at home. Toss in the fact that seemingly every game Miami plays is a close one and I'm pretty stoic on this one.

To be fair, pretty much everyone beat Miami by 30 last year.

[R_3]

Well, they did play the NBA's hottest team. The Jazz came in with a 10 or 11 game winning streak.

Yeah, but they gave me hope when they were miraculously leading in the 4th. AK-47 was effective for the Jazz.

[Mister J]

Dwyane Wade, an absolutely insane effort tonight. That man is doing more for his team than anyone else in the league; largely out of necessity.

That's one of the craziest games I've seen. I'm spent.

[Go Web Go!]

Dwyane MOTHER ****IN' Wade. Goddamn.

[Ghostvirus]

Wow, if Wade doesn't get MVP it will be a travesty. He is just...wow. I just wish he wouldn't be so wow when playing the Bulls.:csad:

[Go Web Go!]

He's actually played worse against the Bulls than any other team since coming into the league, so dropping 48 on Chicago tonight shouldn't hurt TOO much. ;)

[Silver Knight]

Dwyane MOTHER ****IN' Wade. Goddamn.
:up::ikyn

[Docker2.0]

Let's be real: LBJ will win the MVP award though he has a lot more help than Wade. People have really messed up the voting on the award. Seems you have to be on the top team in order to win the award which really isn't fair becuase most of the top teams have good TEAMS. Wade is by his lonesome, while Kobe has Gasol, LBJ has Williams and Boston has the big 3. Paul should've won MVP last year but Kobe got it last year. So I've lost hope in Wade winning it. :csad:

[Silver Knight]

Real talk dude. Should be Co-MVP's at least.

[Go Web Go!]

Let's be real: LBJ will win the MVP award though he has a lot more help than Wade. People have really messed up the voting on the award. Seems you have to be on the top team in order to win the award which really isn't fair becuase most of the top teams have good TEAMS. Wade is by his lonesome, while Kobe has Gasol, LBJ has Williams and Boston has the big 3. Paul should've won MVP last year but Kobe got it last year. So I've lost hope in Wade winning it. :csad:

The NBA MVP award is as meaningless as it gets when you compare it to the other major sports, anyway. It all depends on team performance rather than an individual's performance/importance to his team. It's ridiculous. Would I like to see Wade win it? Sure. Do I think he's more important to his team than LeBron or Kobe are to theirs? Absolutely. Do I think he has a shot to win it? Probably not, and why? Because his team likely isn't going to The Finals.

[Go Web Go!]

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Trail Blazers forward Rudy Fernandez was taken from the court on a stretcher with his neck in a brace after he was fouled hard by Trevor Ariza in the fourth quarter of Portland's game against Los Angeles Lakers.

Fernandez was driving to the basket Monday night when Ariza fouled him. Fernandez fell hard on his elbow and his hip, and remained prone under the basket for more than 10 minutes.

There was no immediate word on the extent of Fernandez's injuries.

The foul touched off a skirmish between the two teams, and the Blazers were assessed a technical foul. The Blazers held an 83-55 lead with 2.2 seconds left in the third quarter when the foul occurred.


Not good.

[L.A.]

Yea I saw that live and that was one of the most horrific accident I ever seen in the NBA!!!

[Go Web Go!]

The foul didn't look nearly as hard as I thought it was going to be. The fall is what did the damage.

[Silver Knight]

Not good.
Not good at all.

[Docker2.0]

Ariza should miss every game that Rudy misses. The foul was totally unnecessary. But he'll probably get suspended 2 games while Fernandez will be out a couple of weeks. The NBA is f-ed up. :o

[Go Web Go!]

He won't get a major suspension. Not when Zach Randolph is sitting one game out for an intentional swing at another player.

[Docker2.0]

That's what I'm saying. Stu Jackson is probably the most oddest "dean of discipline" I've ever seen when it comes to dishing out fines and suspensions. Zach got one game for punching a guy but you see Stoudemire get suspended for leaving the bench for a fight when they BARELY stepped on the court. Dude's a idiot. At least when Rod Thorn had his position, he did it with common sense. Stu.........i have no idea how he'll rule on this.

[Kargo Warrior]

Another Magic game,another win...what's new?

These 5-6 games,the Pistons play the gritty,selfless basketball of 04/05...it's been a while but i'm enjoying this while it lasts.

[The Incredible Hulk]

^ yeah and whats the common thread of the past 6 games, where we're 5-1?

ALLEN IVERSON ISNT IN THE LINEUP! :up: Man we cant get him off the Pistons fast enough IMO. I know why we made the deal, but it still kills me to see Chauncey in a Nuggets uniform.

[Immortalfire]

I'm noticing the hometown Hawks are 36-28, and 22-7 at home. What the heck is going on round here? It's still staggering to see them being...well, good. :wow:

[Raiden]

Lakers should get a psychologist to figure out why the team almost always underperform when they are playing at Portland, because this 7 game losing streak against the Blazers is just mind-boggling. If they can win at Cleveland and Boston, I don't understand why they can't do the same over there. And I think Lakers probably should've traded Odom when his trade value was high, because he has now reverted back to his old inconsistent self again.

[Go Web Go!]

Shaq, who's still broadcasting his love for Phoenix, is saying privately he wants out, upset to the highest level of upsetivity, as he once said, at almost being traded, or the team's return to running, or both. -- LA Times

:whatever:

[Silver Knight]

Shaq will be traded in the summer.

[Go Web Go!]

You can't please the guy. He is the NBA's Terrell Owens, yet no one makes a big stink when he demands trades or calls players/coaches out because he's a big, cuddly, funny 'likeable' guy.

[Silver Knight]

He loves the attention and always needs to be in the spotlight. But I will give him credit for playing well this season.

[Go Web Go!]

Yeah, and even so it looks as if he won't even make the playoffs.

[Silver Knight]

They wont, and I hope they dont.

[Nightmare]

He should bought out this summer if they cant find someone to swap expiring contracts worth 20 million.

[Go Web Go!]

I think it's more likely that Phoenix ships him (& possibly Amare) around next year's trade deadline.

[Mister J]

I doubt Shaq agrees to a buyout. He likes his money.

[Go Web Go!]

Just as I thought: Trevor Ariza won't be disciplined any further for his hard foul on Rudy Fernandez last night.

[Raiden]

Just as I thought: Trevor Ariza won't be disciplined any further for his hard foul on Rudy Fernandez last night.

I checked the replay and I think Ariza was going for the ball, and not for Fernandez's head. It warranted a fragrant 2 and a ejection, but I don't think he should be suspended. However, Odom left the bench and I expect him to be suspended for at least a game.

[Go Web Go!]

They have to. You can't make an exception for that rule, especially after Amare's playoff suspension a year or 2 ago.

[Mister J]

As bad as the Ariza foul looked (and resulted), I don't think it was dirty. It was certainly meant as a hard foul, but I don't believe he was trying to hurt Rudy. The problem is that Fernandez was in the air and Ariza was a little reckless with where he swung. Too much momentum going in opposite ways. He doesn't have a history, so the ejection and whatever fine should suffice.

Odom has to be suspended. He left the bench while an altercation was going on. The rule calls for an automatic suspension of at least a game. There's some question as to whether or not he has to come onto the floor, but that's nitpicking. I love Lamar's line afterward; 'I stood up, but I stood right there -- I didn't go nowhere'. Sure you didn't, Lamar. Sure. :o

[Raiden]

As bad as the Ariza foul looked (and resulted), I don't think it was dirty. It was certainly meant as a hard foul, but I don't believe he was trying to hurt Rudy. The problem is that Fernandez was in the air and Ariza was a little reckless with where he swung. Too much momentum going in opposite ways. He doesn't have a history, so the ejection and whatever fine should suffice.

Odom has to be suspended. He left the bench while an altercation was going on. The rule calls for an automatic suspension of at least a game. There's some question as to whether or not he has to come onto the floor, but that's nitpicking. I love Lamar's line afterward; 'I stood up, but I stood right there -- I didn't go nowhere'. Sure you didn't, Lamar. Sure. :o

Odom never seemed like he's that smart, and he should've just admitted that he left the bench and offered an apology. He should've known that the replay of him leaving the bench is viewable on Youtube everywhere. Unfortunately, he's also incredibly inconsistent, and if he keeps playing like he's been playing in the past several games I don't think Lakers will offer him an extension this off-season, nor should they.

[Mister J]

I think they'll look to re-sign him (since they didn't trade him at the deadline), but it'll be at a lower price. I think he's making 11M+ this year. That's not going to work. #1, he ain't worth that much (even if the economy didn't stink) and #2 Bynum's big money kicks in next year, so the luxury tax implications would be beaucoup if Odom received a comparable salary next year.

Also, not that it wasn't expected,

Odom Suspended For One Game (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3968577)

[Excel]

Just when you thought LeBron strangle hold on the MVP was slipping...

[Double Down]

If beating the Clippers can ever be considered a big win, then tonight was that night.

[Excel]

Its moreso that it was gutcheck time...down by 16 going into the 4th.

[Double Down]

I think the announcer said they scored 31 of the final 41 ponts. To do that and win by 4 points is clutch.

[Excel]

Boston vs. Cleveland is going to be an amazing conference finals...cannot wait.

[Double Down]

Same here.

[Silver Knight]

OKC is playing good ball. I see playoffs next year.

[Go Web Go!]

OKC is playing good ball. I see playoffs next year.

Do you also see dinosaurs racing pandas on unicorns - because even that makes more sense than OKC making the playoffs. Even with their recent hot streak they have one of the 5 worst records in the league.

[Silver Knight]

Do you also see dinosaurs racing pandas on unicorns - because even that makes more sense than OKC making the playoffs. Even with their recent hot streak they have one of the 5 worst records in the league.
Bet on it they will make the playoffs. They are beating teams WITHOUT Durant.

[Silver Knight]

Pacers could be on the move.

Pacers owner: Money losses can't continue

By Mark Alesia and Brendan O'Shaughnessy
mark.alesia@indystar.com
Indiana Pacers co-owner Herb Simon stressed Tuesday that he wants to keep his team in Indianapolis but was equally adamant that he can no longer afford the operating expenses at Conseco Fieldhouse or the team's year-after-year financial losses.
Simon said the Pacers have lost money nine of the past 10 years, including the year the Pacers played in the NBA finals. (Forbes.com offers a different financial picture; see the graphic at left.) Jim Morris, president of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, said the team has lost $200 million total since Simon bought it in 1983.
"There comes a point where you have to say, 'Maybe I can't do this anymore,' " Simon, 74, said in an hourlong meeting with executives and reporters at The Indianapolis Star. "Certainly my family, if I'm not here, is not going to be able to do it.

"So, let's straighten this thing out. Maybe we can't. But let us try. Sure, I would have picked a better time than the world's greatest economic crisis. The timing sucks, but that's what it is."

The timing is triggered by a clause in the Pacers lease -- signed when the team moved into the fieldhouse in 1999 -- that allows the team to renegotiate with the city's Capital Improvement Board after 10 years.

Under the agreement, the Pacers agreed to operate the fieldhouse, which is costing the team about $15 million a year. Simon said he did not want to negotiate in public, but it's clear, based on what CIB officials have said, that neither side thinks the team can continue to pay that much.

The CIB is facing its own $20 million shortfall. If it were to absorb the cost of operating the fieldhouse, it almost certainly would need help from taxpayers.

Simon avoided making threats to leave town and said he has not spoken to other cities that might be interested in the team. But, he stressed, "It's very important we resolve this in the near future. Very important."

And it's not just the Pacers that Simon is concerned about. The fate of the Fever seems tenuous at best.

Simon said he is committed to the WNBA team for just one more year. The team has lost "several million dollars," he said, and must double corporate sponsorships and attendance if it is to survive.

But while Simon bemoaned his financial situation, others looked skeptically at the latest example of a wealthy professional sports team owner wanting public money.

Cathy Burton, president of the Marion County Alliance of Neighborhood Associations, said she doesn't fault Simon for trying to get a deal as good as the one the Colts received at Lucas Oil Stadium.

"The fault," she said, "lies in giving it to them. The citizens can't afford to bail them out."

She said the team brought many of its problems on itself, with frequent player misbehavior that has hurt attendance. She called on the Pacers to open their financial books to the public.

David Carter, a sports business expert from the University of Southern California, said he can't evaluate the team's claims of losing money in nine of the past 10 years, including 2000, when they went to the NBA Finals.

But, Carter said, "even if they are (losing money), you still need to take a look at how valuable the team would be if it were put up for sale -- and not necessarily in the home market."

The Simons bought the Pacers for $11 million. Forbes magazine said the team is now worth a little more than $300 million, a figure the team disputes.

"The accumulated losses are close to the value of the franchise," said Morris, the Pacers Sports & Entertainment executive. "There is not some golden egg out there somewhere."

Potential suitors for the Pacers include Kansas City, which just built a new arena.

But, Carter said, "just because a city is interested doesn't mean they can pull the trigger. States, cities and school districts are laying people off, and there's going to be a headline about giving money to a new basketball team?"

Simon said he has been a community-minded steward of the team, which almost certainly would have left Indianapolis if he had not stepped in.

Now, it appears taxpayers may be expected to step in again. A number of options have been floated to cover the CIB's operating debt, which, depending on the outcome of negotiations with the Pacers, may very well include some if not all of the $15 million to operate the fieldhouse.

Paul Okeson, Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard's chief of staff, said the mayor wants to focus first on increasing admission taxes to help the CIB, spreading the burden to those who use the facility. But a 1 percentage point increase in that tax would raise only an estimated $1.5 million, not nearly enough revenue to cover the problem. In addition, the Pacers are concerned they would have to absorb that cost because they're not certain they could raise ticket prices without losing fans.

Another possibility is raising the existing tax on restaurants, but Okeson said the city needs to be cautious, especially because it would make that tax among the highest in the country.

Still, the city senses it must do something.

"I think everyone involved would agree that a picture of Indianapolis without the Pacers would not be healthy," Okeson said.

Simon said he didn't have any recommendations for how the CIB comes up with the money.

"That's not our job," Simon said. "We want to cooperate, but I think some creative people can come up with creative ways of doing it."

[Etienne]

I'd add Charlotte to the list of possible playoff teams next season. Diaw has been playing great with Brown as his coach, and they have a solid PG in Felton.

[Go Web Go!]

Bet on it they will make the playoffs. They are beating teams WITHOUT Durant.

I'd bet on it if I wanted to lose everything I own. Have you seen who've they've been without Durant? Aside from blowing out the Mavericks, their wins haven't been very impressive. Hell, with or without Durant, these are the teams their 14 wins have come against:

Minnesota
Memphis (3 times)
Toronto
Golden State (twice)
New York
Utah
Detroit
New Jersey
Portland
Sacramento (twice)
Dallas
Washington
Philadelphia

Utah & Portland are the only quality teams they've beaten with the wins versus Detroit & Dallas a tier below. That's not a playoff team. Not this year. Not next. Probably not the year after that either. These guys aren't going to turn it around one season to the next, especially in the West.

[Immortalfire]

Hawks knock off the Jazz :eek:

[Go Web Go!]

I missed all but the last 20 seconds of tonight's game, but I'm glad Miami was able to knock off the Celtics. I don't care if it's against the World Champs or World Chumps, you need to beat a team that's without 5 of their key players. It would be nice to be on the right side of a blowout for once this year, though.

[Mister J]

Very uninspiring W, but I'll take it.

Spo needs to include some sets to better use JO. The offense is still 'Give the ball to Dwyane and wait for him to create'. Wasted potential.

[BigSams50]

I'd add Charlotte to the list of possible playoff teams next season. Diaw has been playing great with Brown as his coach, and they have a solid PG in Felton.


Apparently they dont feel that way by selecting dj augustine. I feel they should have drafted brook lopez tht way they have another big man along side Emeka

[Lobo]

Well, I'll be damned.

[Silver Knight]

I'd add Charlotte to the list of possible playoff teams next season. Diaw has been playing great with Brown as his coach, and they have a solid PG in Felton.
The Bobcats will make the playoffs this season.

[Etienne]

Apparently they dont feel that way by selecting dj augustine. I feel they should have drafted brook lopez tht way they have another big man along side Emeka
I never said that they were a smart organization, though getting Diaw and Bell for Richardson was a good trade for them.
The Bobcats will make the playoffs this season.
We'll see...

[fu manchu]

I'd bet on it if I wanted to lose everything I own. Have you seen who've they've been without Durant? Aside from blowing out the Mavericks, their wins haven't been very impressive. Hell, with or without Durant, these are the teams their 14 wins have come against:

Minnesota
Memphis (3 times)
Toronto
Golden State (twice)
New York
Utah
Detroit
New Jersey
Portland
Sacramento (twice)
Dallas
Washington
Philadelphia

Utah & Portland are the only quality teams they've beaten with the wins versus Detroit & Dallas a tier below. That's not a playoff team. Not this year. Not next. Probably not the year after that either. These guys aren't going to turn it around one season to the next, especially in the West.

and yet, there are 0.5 game back from the 8th playoff spot. but i agree they really don't belong in the playoff if they do get the 8th spot.

[Immortalfire]

The Bobcats will make the playoffs this season.

No they won't.

[Silver Knight]

No they won't.
Yes they will.

[Go Web Go!]

Yes they will.

Ease up on the crazy wafers, dude.

[Go Web Go!]

and yet, there are 0.5 game back from the 8th playoff spot. but i agree they really don't belong in the playoff if they do get the 8th spot.

The Thunder are 0.5 game back of the 8th spot in the West? Have you and Silver Knight been hanging out? :oldrazz:

[fu manchu]

The Thunder are 0.5 game back of the 8th spot in the West? Have you and Silver Knight been hanging out? :oldrazz:
nevermind...damn, i got mixed up with the thunders and bobcats.

[Go Web Go!]

Figured as much. They're not getting in this year, but the Bobcats will give the post-season a run within the next few years. They're not great, but they're not terrible - and being "not terrible" is good enough for an 8 seed in the East.

[BigSams50]

Agreed

[LastSunrise1981]

Dallas wins two back to back road games? Wow, I suppose I can say that I'm impressed. Chances are if we move up in the standings we're going to face San Antonio or LA in the first round.

As much as I love Dallas and all, definitely don't like their chances against the Lakers in the first round. :csad:

[LastSunrise1981]

So Silver Knight is a Bobcats fan now?

[LastSunrise1981]

Wow, what a pathetic showing from the Spurs so far. 35 to 17? Come on now, you know you can hang with the Lakers. Start applying some of that physical team defense for once.

[Lobo]

Hughes has been playing well for us the last 6/7 games. Hope he can keep it up the rest of the year :)

[LastSunrise1981]

While the Spurs played like absolute trash I noticed certain instances where the officials called jump balls when Duncan was getting mugged under the hoop.

But at the end of the day while the officials gave Kobe and his squad gimmie calls, the Spurs didn't come to play and didn't utilize the physical team defense that they're known for. They have no one to blame for this loss but themselves. And the more I think about it, I don't even think having Ginoboli in the lineup will help that much.

It's become painfully obvious that teams like Dallas, Phoenix, and San Antonio are getting old and the younger more athletic teams like the Lakers, Hornets, Blazers, Jazz, Cavs, Magic, and Heat are showing promise despite being younger.

[Etienne]

Wow, what a pathetic showing from the Spurs so far. 35 to 17? Come on now, you know you can hang with the Lakers. Start applying some of that physical team defense for once.
While the Spurs played like absolute trash
I can always count on you to trash the Spurs every chance you get. :down
the more I think about it, I don't even think having Ginoboli in the lineup will help that much.Ginobili doesn't equal an automatic win but down the stretch tonight when the Spurs cut it to 2 it couldn't hurt to have him out there. The dude can create his own shot and is a huge spark for the Spurs.

[Dr. Evil]

Possible bad news in Indy:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3975398

[JaD]

Ha, J-Rich embarassed himself so badly with that attempted 360 which was blocked by LeBron Tayshaun-style :hehe:

[Go Web Go!]

Jason Richardson denied on a 360 dunk by LeBron, lol. How about just putting the ball in the basket on a breakaway, idiot? You don't get style points.

[Dr. Evil]

I'd bet on it if I wanted to lose everything I own. Have you seen who've they've been without Durant? Aside from blowing out the Mavericks, their wins haven't been very impressive. Hell, with or without Durant, these are the teams their 14 wins have come against:

Minnesota
Memphis (3 times)
Toronto
Golden State (twice)
New York
Utah
Detroit
New Jersey
Portland
Sacramento (twice)
Dallas
Washington
Philadelphia

Utah & Portland are the only quality teams they've beaten with the wins versus Detroit & Dallas a tier below. That's not a playoff team. Not this year. Not next. Probably not the year after that either. These guys aren't going to turn it around one season to the next, especially in the West.

Durant will want out if they don't win in 2010-2011. They could end up as the new Memphis.

[Double Down]

LeBron just got his third straight triple double. And he has now won on every NBA court.

[Mister J]

Phoenix reportedly has an easy schedule down the stretch (I'm too lazy to confirm), but I think they can officially hang up their playoffs hopes. 6 games back with ~18 to go.

[LastSunrise1981]

Phoenix reportedly has an easy schedule down the stretch (I'm too lazy to confirm), but I think they can officially hang up their playoffs hopes. 6 games back with ~18 to go.

Stranger things have happened. I definitely believe they would be in higher standings if they had Amare though. Although I can see this team rebuilding around Amare while Nash and Shaq leave.

[Go Web Go!]

That's if Amare wants to stay.

[LastSunrise1981]

That's if Amare wants to stay.

I thought they resigned him? Because I could've sworn I heard one of the analysts say that Amare wouldn't stay if the team wasn't built around him. Of course I could've misunderstood.

[Mister J]

I'm nearly expecting a fire sale next year. Amare seems a good best to opt out in 2010, Nash and Shaq's deals expire naturally. Sarver has been *****ing about payroll for years and now it's very likely the Suns will be enjoying the playoffs from the same seats as I will be. That eye injury has had major repercussions. If they don't come out next year, and firmly establish themselves as a championship contender, the wheeling and dealing will commence. That's a lot of talent that can bring some young talent/picks and/or expiring money.

[LastSunrise1981]

I'm nearly expecting a fire sale next year. Amare seems a good best to opt out in 2010, Nash and Shaq's deals expire naturally. Sarver has been *****ing about payroll for years and now it's very likely the Suns will be enjoying the playoffs from the same seats as I will be. That eye injury has had major repercussions. If they don't come out next year, and firmly establish themselves as a championship contender, the wheeling and dealing will commence. That's a lot of talent that can bring some young talent/picks and/or expiring money.

Mister J, wouldn't you agree that Phoenix is getting old though? Shaq and Nash are nowhere near their prime anymore and cannot display the same fire they once had.

The back to back MVP winning Nash I think is gone forever and will start playing at a more slower pace.

[Lobo]

The Knicks, for all intents and purposes should beat Minnesota tonight, so I expect them to lose. :(

[Mister J]

Mister J, wouldn't you agree that Phoenix is getting old though? Shaq and Nash are nowhere near their prime anymore and cannot display the same fire they once had.

The back to back MVP winning Nash I think is gone forever and will start playing at a more slower pace.
They're certainly old, which is why I don't believe management will have that many reservations about shipping at least one of them off (either in the offseason or the by the trading deadline) to aid with rebuilding. The only thing that'll likely temp Sarver to make another run with this group is if they come out next season like gangbusters.

[Raiden]

Great win by Lakers last night, and it's nice to see them rebound after that terrible loss over at Portland. And Powell's terrific outing as Odom's replacement might have lit a fire under him, because he has one of the best games in the past few weeks.

[Silver Knight]

Phoenix reportedly has an easy schedule down the stretch (I'm too lazy to confirm), but I think they can officially hang up their playoffs hopes. 6 games back with ~18 to go.
It does not matter because in the end Dallas will be swept by the Lakers.

[Soundwave]

It does not matter because in the end Dallas will be swept by the Lakers.

True but the west is so jumbled up right now that there's no guarantee the Mavs will finish 8th. There is a logjam from 3 - 8 so most of these teams will still be playing for playoff positioning.

[Dr. Evil]

Anyone hear about the rumors of about a dozen NBA teams in financial trouble? If that is true, that's a bit disturbing. I've been hearing about it for the last few days, since news of the Pacers troubles came out.

From Bill Simmons in his Post-NBA All Star Game Article:

4. The dawning of NBA Franchise Hot Potato.
Ohhhhhhhh, it's coming.

I became obsessed with this topic over All-Star Weekend and solicited input from as many people in the know as I could. Franchise Hot Potato hinges on five factors in all, although only three need to be in play. You need a team with a dwindling fan base and/or bailing sponsors and suite/courtside customers. (I count 11: Indiana, Memphis, Milwaukee, Sacramento, New Jersey, New Orleans, Miami, Orlando, Minnesota, Charlotte and Philly.) You need a team trapped in an aging stadium that can't drum up local money for a new one. (I count three: Sacramento, Jersey and Milwaukee.) You need an owner who purchased his team because he was worth a ton of money ON PAPER … only now, he's worth significantly less and might even be worth $10 for all we know. (Consensus candidates for this list: Phoenix, Hijack City, Jersey, Memphis, Indiana, Atlanta, Milwaukee, Charlotte … and, surprisingly, Sacramento and Cleveland.) You need cities with NBA-ready, modern arenas either finished or about to be finished that would love nothing more than stealing a team. (Definitely Kansas City, Anaheim, San Jose, Louisville, Tulsa and Pittsburgh; possibly Columbus, St. Louis; and just for fun, let's throw in Montreal and London.) And you need a struggling team that can actually extricate itself from its lease.

The last "need" is easier said than done, as the Grizzlies would tell you -- owner Michael Heisley would leave treadmarks fleeing Memphis if he weren't tied to FedEx Forum through 2015. Then again, Hijack City owners McClendon and Clay Bennett showed us a nice blueprint for weaseling out of a lease in Seattle last year, a strategy best described as, "make up selfish reasons to leave, make your move, leave a trail of broken hearts, bastardize the integrity of the league, then make everything OK by just paying everyone off because the city will be greedy enough to accept a cash settlement right away over fighting you in court for the next six years." Thank you, fellas. You guys will be remembered as the Lewis and Clark of Scumbag NBA Owners.

Looking at the next 15 months only, the consensus of people in the know was that multiple NBA franchises (guesses ranged from three to eight) will move cities, get sold to new owners or throw themselves on the mercy of the league (meaning the NBA would effectively take over operations of that franchise, kinda like what happens in the MLS or WNBA). Nobody believes the league will contract or merge two franchises, simply because Stern is stubborn that way; that would be an undeniable sign of weakness in his eyes. (If you don't believe me, I have five words for you: Season 13 of the WNBA.) On the other hand, he's the one who opened the door for 21st-century franchise relocation with his callous handling of Seattle's situation. The other 29 NBA cities learned an ominous lesson from SonicsGate: If you don't heed every arena-related wish of your team, no matter how insane or unrealistic those wishes are, then it might move and the commissioner's office will not protect you. As long as we have cities like K.C. and Anaheim waiting with open arms, teams will keep moving. And they will.

(Important Note No. 2: I already planted this seed to my friend Jason Whitlock, but it's worth mentioning again … I am fine with the Kings moving back to Kansas City because Sacramento stole them in the first place. It's like if I left the Sports Gal for Megan Fox, stayed with her for 15 years, then the Sports Gal stole me back and we spent the rest of our lives together. You couldn't blame the Sports Gal for this, right? Hold on … lemme enjoy this scenario for a few more seconds … hold on … hold on … OK. Also, I like the thought of Pittsburgh landing the Nets or Grizzlies for some reason. Did you know Pittsburgh's team in the ABL (circa 1962) was named "The Pittsburgh Rens" after Pittsburgh's annual renaissance festival? You're not gonna believe this, but they went under. Then their next team was called the Pittsburgh Pipers (ABA, late-'60s) and they went under. Regardless of what you think about Pittsburgh as an NBA city, at least admit it can come up with phenomenally dumb nicknames. Keep your fingers crossed for the Nets to become the Pittsburgh Ironmen (What? They already tried that one?) or the Pittsburgh Coal.)

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

Could be troubling for the league

[Silver Knight]

True but the west is so jumbled up right now that there's no guarantee the Mavs will finish 8th. There is a logjam from 3 - 8 so most of these teams will still be playing for playoff positioning.
Yeah, good point.

[Lobo]

Three straight road wins for the Knicks, I'll be damned.

[Silver Knight]

8th seed against Celtics could happen.

[Lobo]

I'm hoping for that, doubt it, but hoping. yes, i know in all likelihood they'd get swept, but from 23 wins and the Isiah era to a playoff berth in Mikes first year would be nice.

[Caped Crusader]

Pistons owner William Davidson passes away.

:(

[Lobo]

:csad: RIP

[Dr. Evil]

RIP.

So who takes over the Pistons?

[Go Web Go!]

Sad. He also owned the Shock & TB Lightning, did he not?

[Dr. Evil]

Sad. He also owned the Shock & TB Lightning, did he not?

Yes he did.

[Mister J]

RIP, Mr. D.

[Nightmare]

Rip

[Immortalfire]

Pistons owner William Davidson passes away.

:(

Bummer..good owner, good man. :csad:

[Docker2.0]

Anyone hear about the rumors of about a dozen NBA teams in financial trouble? If that is true, that's a bit disturbing. I've been hearing about it for the last few days, since news of the Pacers troubles came out.

From Bill Simmons in his Post-NBA All Star Game Article:



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

Could be troubling for the league

For the record, I do believe this article. I had a chance to buy tickets that were almost courtside for $3.00 but just didn't feel like putting up with traffic that night....plus I probably could see the game better on tv than I could in person. With a lot of teams "building for the future" and losing now or getting locked into long term contracts with corny players, a dwindling fanbase,.....its only a matter of time before financial disaster hits this league. I'm not saying it'll be immediate but sooner or later at the rate things are going, it may become bankrupt one day.

[Silver Knight]

Lets hope that day us far away.

[Excel]

Leon Powe is the man :up: :up: :up:

[Silver Knight]

He sure did step up last night.

[Go Web Go!]

Took 3 OT's to do it, but hell of an effort from Miami to come back at the end of the 4th & from 8 back in the first OT to beat the Jazz. 50 from Wade, big game from Chalmers & Jermaine and a couple of big plays by James Jones down the stretch. Time to get on with the rest of my day. Sheesh.

[Lobo]

Wade surpasses Mourning as Heat's all time leading scorer, wow!

[Ghostvirus]

D-Wade for MVP!!!!!

[empire]

Lakers win vs the Spurs clinched the Pacific Div. All we have to do is continue to win and finish the regular season with the best record.

[R_3]

Took 3 OT's to do it, but hell of an effort from Miami to come back at the end of the 4th & from 8 back in the first OT to beat the Jazz. 50 from Wade, big game from Chalmers & Jermaine and a couple of big plays by James Jones down the stretch. Time to get on with the rest of my day. Sheesh.

Wow, they went to 3 Over times?! That must've been a thriller. The national networks need to put the Heat back on TV so everyone could catch their games. I've got to say, Wade for MVP for sure.

Also: 500 posts for me! And it only took 5 years!

[Nightmare]

Wade is unbelievable every night I look at the highlights and he does something amazing. I was kind of skeptical about his cause of the past 2 injury prone seasons. But he's came back with a force this year.

[Go Web Go!]

rip.

So who takes over the pistons?

espn -

auburn hills, mich. -- the wife of bill davidson is expected to succeed her husband as owner of the detroit pistons.

Pistons president tom wilson said saturday that karen davidson will fill the ownership role following the death of the longtime owner friday at 86.

Davidson was inducted into the basketball hall of fame in september. He also owned the wnba's detroit shock and palace sports & entertainment.

Davidson was chairman and president of guardian industries corp., a major manufacturer of glass products. The auburn hills company says its leadership will follow a transition plan established more than 10 years ago

[JaD]

Wow, they went to 3 Over times?! That must've been a thriller. The national networks need to put the Heat back on TV so everyone could catch their games. I've got to say, Wade for MVP for sure.

Also: 500 posts for me! And it only took 5 years!I know, what the heck, I don't think I've seen a Heat game on TV in so long. :csad: I'm jealous of J and G-W-G!, lucky bastards :hehe:

Latin women, beaches, and Wade. You guys have it all.

*single tear*

[Ghostvirus]

Good stomping by Da Bulls tonight. I just wish Hornets would have let the fans have their damn cheese burgers!:cmad:

[Go Web Go!]

I know, what the heck, I don't think I've seen a Heat game on TV in so long. :csad: I'm jealous of J and G-W-G!, lucky bastards :hehe:

Latin women, beaches, and Wade. You guys have it all.

*single tear*

Haha. Not a bad trio, eh? You guys are more than welcome to crash at my place & dabble in each of the three...unless you're a Knicks fan! :cmad:

Miami is pretty fun to watch - arguably the funnest team in the league. I did my research and saw that Miami's been in 31 games decided by 8 points or less. That's some quality entertainment night in & night out, though I wouldn't mind blowing teams out every couple of games. I can only put up with these nail-biters for so long. :csad:

As far as not being on national tv so much, I can't say I blame the ESPN's & TNT's of the world for not putting the NBA's worst team last year in nationally televised games the following year. Very few people, if any, thought the team (and Wade) would bounce back the way they have this season, but they have and I'm glad I have a front row seat every night. It's been a fun year thus far.

[Silver Knight]

Wow Wade. Just wow.

[JaD]

Haha. Not a bad trio, eh? You guys are more than welcome to crash at my place & dabble in each of the three...unless you're a Knicks fan! :cmad:

Miami is pretty fun to watch - arguably the funnest team in the league. I did my research and saw that Miami's been in 31 games decided by 8 points or less. That's some quality entertainment night in & night out, though I wouldn't mind blowing teams out every couple of games. I can only put up with these nail-biters for so long. :csad:

As far as not being on national tv so much, I can't say I blame the ESPN's & TNT's of the world for not putting the NBA's worst team last year in nationally televised games the following year. Very few people, if any, thought the team (and Wade) would bounce back the way they have this season, but they have and I'm glad I have a front row seat every night. It's been a fun year thus far.That's just awesome, I know I remember seeing you post pictures of a game and where you were sitting. Sweet juice :word:.

And yeah they've had one heck of a turnaround from last season. I'm very happy for them. The '06 Finals was one of my favorite championship series that I watched every game of. :up: (Heck I still have the newspaper of when they won Game 6 :hehe:)

[Dr. Evil]

The Anaheim Kings?

http://basketball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/57920/20090315/is_anaheim_a_possible_home_for_kings/#

[Immortalfire]

I won't be surprised if, like the Angels, the Kings try to make people believe they're in LA too. The Los Angeles Kings of Anaheim

:whatever:

[Dr. Evil]

I won't be surprised if, like the Angels, the Kings try to make people believe they're in LA too. The Los Angeles Kings of Anaheim

:whatever:

The NHL Los Angeles Kings could sue if that happens.

[Go Web Go!]

Thankfully, the NHL already has the LA Kings so I think we can sleep soundly.

[R_3]

Haha. Not a bad trio, eh? You guys are more than welcome to crash at my place & dabble in each of the three...unless you're a Knicks fan! :cmad:

Miami is pretty fun to watch - arguably the funnest team in the league. I did my research and saw that Miami's been in 31 games decided by 8 points or less. That's some quality entertainment night in & night out, though I wouldn't mind blowing teams out every couple of games. I can only put up with these nail-biters for so long. :csad:

As far as not being on national tv so much, I can't say I blame the ESPN's & TNT's of the world for not putting the NBA's worst team last year in nationally televised games the following year. Very few people, if any, thought the team (and Wade) would bounce back the way they have this season, but they have and I'm glad I have a front row seat every night. It's been a fun year thus far.

I agree. I remember last April on one of the final weekends of the final season, ABC played a Bulls vs Heat game and I was thinking "who the hell wants to watch this?". A season later I find myself Youtubing their double OT thriller.

Anyways, I'm watching the Raps dressed as the Celtics. I think they're finally going to win! Yeah baby!

[Bond]

Possible first round preview in about an hour. The Mavs are in LA. I'm kinda scared.

[Go Web Go!]

Can't say I'm surprised by the Heat's loss today coming off a triple OT game yesterday & a flight to Philly for another 1PM start. You can tell Wade & the rest of the guys were fatigued for most of the game and sat on the bench for a good chunk of time because of it.

[Immortalfire]

Flipping channels, I saw that the Hawks beat Portland today. I get depressed whenever I see the Trail Blazers' name. It reminds me of my youth, playing The Oregon Trail at school. My wife, kids and cattle all died. And then I died.

:csad:

[Mister J]

Can't say I'm surprised by the Heat's loss today coming off a triple OT game yesterday & a flight to Philly for another 1PM start. You can tell Wade & the rest of the guys were fatigued for most of the game and sat on the bench for a good chunk of time because of it.
With all he's had to do, I can understand Wade being tired. The problem was no one other than JO bothered to show up. Beasley only gets 15 minutes? Granted he had 5 fouls, but he's 20 and the second leading scorer. There should have been a near mandate to get him touches today. When he got pulled in the 4th, I flung my remote across the room.

[Nightmare]

Nice win by the bucks over the celtics.

[Lobo]

I'm prepared for Lebron to have another field day against NY tonight.

[Silver Knight]

He always has a field day against the Knicks.

[Go Web Go!]

Everyone does.

[Darthphere]

With all he's had to do, I can understand Wade being tired. The problem was no one other than JO bothered to show up. Beasley only gets 15 minutes? Granted he had 5 fouls, but he's 20 and the second leading scorer. There should have been a near mandate to get him touches today. When he got pulled in the 4th, I flung my remote across the room.

LOL! Dude, my buddies and I were at that 3 OT epic and we were like "Wow, Beasley hasn't played a single minute past the 3rd quarter." It's really amazing to watch. Come on, ok, he's a rookie and they want to take care of him, but Chalmers is in there playing big minutes.

[Lobo]

He always has a field day against the Knicks.

He didn't tonight, but they still won :(

Everyone does.

That's slightly less true this year :o

[Go Web Go!]

Yup. Only 19 for Bron tonight.

[Raiden]

Nice win by the bucks over the celtics.

I read that Celtics are 6-5 without KG.

[Go Web Go!]

Here's hoping he isn't back in time for Wednesday's game.

[Darthphere]

I read that Celtics are 6-5 without KG.

Well some of those games have also been without Rondo and Big Baby. They actually started losing games when Rondo went out.

[Silver Knight]

Yup. Only 19 for Bron tonight.
A win is a win I guess.

[Nightmare]

Isnt there some dallas fans on here? Nice scare at the end in LA. LA made it exciting by giving up the lead and getting it back to close it out.

[Silver Knight]

You still lost.

[Go Web Go!]

No need for the douchebaggery.

[Silver Knight]

Im not. Im just telling it as it is mate.

[BigSams50]

LAWL! Agent Zero won't even be a Wizard next season. LAWL!:o:o:o

:pal:

[Ziggyman]

I love Pops Mensah-Bonsu!

[Go Web Go!]

When he arrived in Toronto in a trade for Jermaine O'Neal after the All-Star break, Shawn Marion ripped the Miami Heat and their slowdown of fense and talked about how happy he was with the more up-tempo Raptors. It did seem like a good fit, especially with some of the other talent in Toronto. But Marion hasn't played well, the Raptors' disappointing season has only gotten worse and now Marion isn't happy there, either. Some of it is the system, some of it is his teammates, but it doesn't sound like he's very much into staying after his contract ends this summer. At least not right now. -- Cleveland Plain Dealer

:whatever:

[Lobo]

Marion seems like his career will go to the path of Marburyhood.

[Darthphere]

Shawn Marion would be an excellent bench player. He's just not starting material. He provides some offense but doesn't do much else.

[Ziggyman]

We are better with Marion than with Jermaine...As a Raptor...He's doing more for us than Jermaine did...

[Darthphere]

And Jermaine is doing more for us than Marion did (lately at least).

[Ziggyman]

Win-win then...

[Darthphere]

Though, I would love for him to bring down more rebounds, it's not like anyone else on the team is trying either on that front.

[Ghostvirus]

I was watching Gametime on NBA TV, enjoying that fact that the Pissedons lost another game. & I started wishing Farmer Fran was here so I could piss him off.:csad:

[Immortalfire]

Piss off The Incredible Hulk...he likes da Pistons.

[Ghostvirus]

It isn't the same.:csad:

[ih8nyy]

Wait.

The Celtics wear Green on the Road.
But the Bulls are wearing Green at home and the Celtics are wearing White on the road.

The Bulls uni's look just like the Green and Black Boston has.

I can't help but think that Boston has the ball, but wait...... they don't!

I think I may http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg277/cpoconnor/Tars/Exploding-head.gifwatching this.

[Go Web Go!]

Wait.

The Celtics wear Green on the Road.
But the Bulls are wearing Green at home and the Celtics are wearing White on the road.

The Bulls uni's look just like the Green and Black Boston has.

I can't help but think that Boston has the ball, but wait...... they don't!

I think I may http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg277/cpoconnor/Tars/Exploding-head.gifwatching this.

No kidding. I've been *****ing about teams not named the Celtics wearing green for nearly a full page in the Uniform thread. Ugh.

[Silver Knight]

Cavs will clinch the East soon.

[Ghostvirus]

Bulls take the Irish luck out of the Celts.:up:

[Go Web Go!]

Are you sure it wasn't Boston that won? They looked a lot alike.

[Nightmare]

Hey ghost, your video is gone! :(

[Nightmare]

What a friggin clutch shot by Andre Iguodala to one up on kobe's go ahead shot.

Sixers beat the lakers in LA by 1 point!

[fu manchu]

great shot by Iguodala, but the lakers shoulda got a foul before he took that shot.

[empire]

WTF? Lakers loss at the buzzer. Proof that they have yet to possess that killer instinct. Can't play like that in the post season or its early vacation for them.

[Etienne]

What a friggin clutch shot by Andre Iguodala to one up on kobe's go ahead shot.

Sixers beat the lakers in LA by 1 point!
Must have been some game. :cool:

[Silver Knight]

Im calling it now. Cavs will win the Championship.

[Go Web Go!]

Im calling it now. Cavs will win the Championship.

Also that wont happen as my Hornets are going all the way this year.

Anyone else?

[Ghostvirus]

Hey ghost, your video is gone! :(

Thanks for the heads up. I will need to find a new video

[Immortalfire]

Anyone else?

I love this kid.

[LastSunrise1981]

Anyone else?

People still take Silver Knight seriously?

Go Web Go, have a question for you. I know you're a Heat fan and I know you feel Wade should probably win the MVP. Do you think it's fair that he might not win it because of the team he is on?

I haven't seen him play due to the fact that they don't show many Heat games on television it seems like. I have, however, been looking at his stats and if he doesn't win it would seem tragic. Without Wade playing this great Miami wouldn't be where they are right now.

Lebron and Kobe are great players in their own right; they also have decent talent surrounding them whereas Wade doesn't have that benefit.

[Go Web Go!]

Go Web Go, have a question for you. I know you're a Heat fan and I know you feel Wade should probably win the MVP. Do you think it's fair that he might not win it because of the team he is on?

I haven't seen him play due to the fact that they don't show many Heat games on television it seems like. I have, however, been looking at his stats and if he doesn't win it would seem tragic. Without Wade playing this great Miami wouldn't be where they are right now.

Lebron and Kobe are great players in their own right; they also have decent talent surrounding them whereas Wade doesn't have that benefit.

You're pretty much on point there. I do think Wade should be MVP, not because I'm a Heat fan, but for the followong reasons:

1. Take Wade off this team and they're in the lottery (same goes for 2 guys that should have won the MVP in previous years: Kobe in '07 & CP3 last season) He carries the load in terms of scoring and setting up his teammates night in & night out. Take Kobe & LeBron off their teams and though they will obviously take a hit, chances are their surrounding cast will be able to put up a good enough number of wins on their own - if not a winning record, then close to it - which brings me to...

2. Look who Kobe has to pick up the slack if he has a bad game: Gasol, Bynum, Odom & a couple of other solid players coming off te bench. LeBron? An all-star PG in Mo Williams (who doesn't get enough credit for the job he's done this season.), a solid big man in Ilgauskus, and a few other key guys like West and Varejao. Now Wade: Didn't have a true center until February with the addition of O'Neal. His starting PG is a rookie. The 2nd leading scorer on this team is a rookie. The best shooter on his team is in his 2nd year. Are any of these guys all-stars? No.

He's working with a few veterans & a bunch of kids on a team that only won 15 games last year and is now up to 36 wins with a playoff birth looming. Because of him.

[Silver Knight]

People still take Silver Knight seriously?

Go Web Go, have a question for you. I know you're a Heat fan and I know you feel Wade should probably win the MVP. Do you think it's fair that he might not win it because of the team he is on?

I haven't seen him play due to the fact that they don't show many Heat games on television it seems like. I have, however, been looking at his stats and if he doesn't win it would seem tragic. Without Wade playing this great Miami wouldn't be where they are right now.

Lebron and Kobe are great players in their own right; they also have decent talent surrounding them whereas Wade doesn't have that benefit.
I accepted the fact the Hornets simple dont have enough fire power to win it this year so I am not picking the Cvs. You madd?

By the way how are your Mavs going? Hopeing to get the 8th spot only to be sweept by the Lakers. Hahaha.

[LastSunrise1981]

I accepted the fact the Hornets simple dont have enough fire power to win it this year so I am not picking the Cvs. You madd?

By the way how are your Mavs going? Hopeing to get the 8th spot only to be sweept by the Lakers. Hahaha.

My Mavs are doing much better than I expected. Although if we hold on to the 8th seed and face the Lakers chances are we'll lose. But I am going to stick by the team I love and not support all of them like you do.

Nope, I'm not mad at all. I find you very amusing actually.

[Go Web Go!]

Didn't get to watch the game, but it was encouraging to hear that Miami pushed Boston to OT without Wade. Moral victories don't count, but I'll take this one. They need to close the 4 game road trip out strong against the Nets & Pistons this weekend.

[Excel]

You're pretty much on point there. I do think Wade should be MVP, not because I'm a Heat fan, but for the followong reasons:

1. Take Wade off this team and they're in the lottery (same goes for 2 guys that should have won the MVP in previous years: Kobe in '07 & CP3 last season) He carries the load in terms of scoring and setting up his teammates night in & night out. Take Kobe & LeBron off their teams and though they will obviously take a hit, chances are their surrounding cast will be able to put up a good enough number of wins on their own - if not a winning record, then close to it - which brings me to...

2. Look who Kobe has to pick up the slack if he has a bad game: Gasol, Bynum, Odom & a couple of other solid players coming off te bench. LeBron? An all-star PG in Mo Williams (who doesn't get enough credit for the job he's done this season.), a solid big man in Ilgauskus, and a few other key guys like West and Varejao. Now Wade: Didn't have a true center until February with the addition of O'Neal. His starting PG is a rookie. The 2nd leading scorer on this team is a rookie. The best shooter on his team is in his 2nd year. Are any of these guys all-stars? No.

He's working with a few veterans & a bunch of kids on a team that only won 15 games last year and is now up to 36 wins with a playoff birth looming. Because of him.

I am not disagreeing with this logic, but will you admitt that by this logic, LeBron shoulda been MVP last season? Yet he finished FOURTH in voting. :dry:

Heres the way it works. You can say "LeBron has Mo Williams", which is true, but Dwayne Wade has Michael Beasley, the 2nd pick. Before you argue that Williams is better than Beasley, you need to understand the effect Wade has on Beasley. Last season, what was Gasol before he got paired with Kobe? Nothing. What was Mo Williams before being paired with LBJ? If Wade is as good as advertised, he is going to make everybody around him better no matter how bad they are. Again, LeBrons talentless team gave the Celtics the best fight in the post season last year.

Its consistency, not only individual but as a team. Before Wades freakish run the past month he was just another great player, but hes been doing what LeBrons been doing every week of the season for the past month. I thought last year that LeBron having the stats and "he has the weaker supporting cast" arguments on my side meant LeBron would easily be the MVP, but its far more than that. Look at it like this:

How valuable is a guy really to his team if the team is not that great to begin with? Sure, Miami may make the playoffs thanks to a late surge, but the Cavs have been dominating ALL YEAR. LeBron hasnt been going all out all season the way Wade has, yet always seems to come through when needed like last night. LBJ has sat out over a dozen 4th quarters while Wade plays 40 minutes every other night.

The fact is, the majority, if not vast majority, will tell you LeBron is the best player in the NBA right now. His all around game is beserk, with triple doubles seemingly every other night while being 2nd in the league in scoring. He is hands down the most dominant offensive player in the NBA in all aspects who can seemingly get to the hoop at will. That factored with rock solid and vastly improved defensive and his teams overall success make the easy MVP.

[Go Web Go!]

I am not disagreeing with this logic, but will you admitt that by this logic, LeBron shoulda been MVP last season? Yet he finished FOURTH in voting. :dry:

I am? I've said time & time again that I felt Chris Paul was MVP last season. He took a team that wasn't even in the playoffs in 2007 to 52 wins, a division title (in what you can argue is the toughest division in the NBA), and a #2 seed in 2008.

Heres the way it works. You can say "LeBron has Mo Williams", which is true, but Dwayne Wade has Michael Beasley, the 2nd pick. Before you argue that Williams is better than Beasley, you need to understand the effect Wade has on Beasley. Last season, what was Gasol before he got paired with Kobe? Nothing. What was Mo Williams before being paired with LBJ? If Wade is as good as advertised, he is going to make everybody around him better no matter how bad they are. Again, LeBrons talentless team gave the Celtics the best fight in the post season last year.

1. Beasley was the 2nd pick, but he's not getting the same minutes or putting up the same numbers as his counterparts Rose, Mayo, etc. He's coming off the bench, & on top of that, he can create his own shot. Wade makes a bigger impact on Cook & Chalmers than he does with Beasley.

2. Gasol was a solid player in Memphis, but that was the problem...he played in Memphis! He was an all-star & was averaging just under 20pts. for his career. I wouldn't say the guy was "nothing."

3. That "talentless" Cavs team was the defending Eastern Conference champion.


How valuable is a guy really to his team if the team is not that great to begin with? Sure, Miami may make the playoffs thanks to a late surge, but the Cavs have been dominating ALL YEAR. LeBron hasnt been going all out all season the way Wade has, yet always seems to come through when needed like last night. LBJ has sat out over a dozen 4th quarters while Wade plays 40 minutes every other night.

Because the Cavs are better. Plain & simple. Miami was supposed to be a borderline playoff team & they just may have homecourt to start the playoffs.

The fact is, the majority, if not vast majority, will tell you LeBron is the best player in the NBA right now. His all around game is beserk, with triple doubles seemingly every other night while being 2nd in the league in scoring. He is hands down the most dominant offensive player in the NBA in all aspects who can seemingly get to the hoop at will. That factored with rock solid and vastly improved defensive and his teams overall success make the easy MVP.

I wouldn't argue that, but the award is not for the "best" player. It's for the most "valuable" player, and I think Wade has been just that. If the MVP award always went to the best player in the league then Shaq & Kobe have a hell of a lot more hardware to their names than just one MVP apiece, and that Steve Nash guy would have ZERO.

[Excel]

Getting good individual #'s doesnt mean they are great players; the BEST make their teammates better and thus win more games.

[Ghostvirus]

My Bulls keep on rolling. Right on through Oklahoma, where the wind comes sweeping through the plains.

[JaD]

NBA.com needs to fix their conference standings, don't know why Minnesota and New Orleans are up at the top. :huh:

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/2629/standingss.jpg

[Bond]

My Bulls keep on rolling. Right on through Oklahoma, where the wind comes sweeping through the plains.
I lol'd.

[Nightmare]

My Bulls keep on rolling. Right on through Oklahoma, where the wind comes sweeping through the plains.

I heard they play a good team on saturday? Think they'll win that one?

[Ghostvirus]

The Lakers right? I don't know. They are playing good right now, so it should be interesting. Hopefully they do.

If the Bulls do get in the Playoffs. I think them, & Miami are two teams that are going to ruin some seasons for people. Especially Miami.

[Silver Knight]

Bulls wont win a game in the playoffs if they get in.

[BigSams50]

Bulls wont win a game in the playoffs if they get in.

I agree, Cleveland will bring the brooms out.

[Ghostvirus]

Bulls wont win a game in the playoffs if they get in.

Whats that weather man? See that works on two levels you can't stick with a team to save your life, & your predictions suck.

[Immortalfire]

Hawks have won seven in a row..gee whiz.

[Silver Knight]

Whats that weather man? See that works on two levels you can't stick with a team to save your life, & your predictions suck.
Hornets > Bulls.

[Ghostvirus]

Your pont? I am fully aware the Bulls aren't all that. I am not disillusioned by that. Still sticking with one sucky team. Is 10 times better than liking what ever team is the hot team of the moment.

[Silver Knight]

Are the Hornets hot? I dont think so. Anyways im not going to argue and fight with you as I have better things to do but good luck in trying to get the 8 seed.

[Ghostvirus]

You are just adorable Silver Knight.

Where is Darth Rekal. I got some trash talking to do about the Lakers!:cmad:

[Silver Knight]

Thank you. :)

[BigSams50]

How bout them bobcats, 1 game behind the 8th seed in the east and they r wht? 8 games below .500? lol

[Nightmare]

Spurs lose in a choking fashion to the celtics. The celtics were up 2, Tony Parker missed four consecutive free throws in the finals 2 minutes of the game. Choke choke choke!!!

the Spurs are not at the same level as the Lakers, Celtics or the Cavs.

[Mister J]

Miami is starting to stink it up on the road. I've given up trying to understand Spo's substitution pattern.
Spurs lose in a choking fashion to the celtics. The celtics were up 2, Tony Parker missed four consecutive free throws in the finals 2 minutes of the game. Choke choke choke!!!
Sounds like Mr. Longoria got his Nick Anderson on.

[Go Web Go!]

You can't lose to a Nets team that was without their best player & whose leading scorer had 18.

[Mister J]

Tonight was ridiculous. There are far too many nights where the offense has no continuity (outside of 'Save us, Dwyane') for it to be this late in the season.

I manage to console myself with the reminder of the inherently low expectations I had for this season. The fact that I got to a point where I expect this team to routinely win games is a huge 180 from last year.

[Etienne]

Spurs lose in a choking fashion to the celtics. The celtics were up 2, Tony Parker missed four consecutive free throws in the finals 2 minutes of the game. Choke choke choke!!!
Tony turned the game into his own personal layup drill. We shot 4 of 17 from très and were still able to keep it a close game. I can't fault Tony and Finley for missing those FT, they've done too much for the team this season. (e.g. Parker with literally back to back 37 point games without Tim and Manu.)
the Spurs are not at the same level as the Lakers, Celtics or the Cavs.:huh: Spurs have gotten quality wins over the Lakers, and Celtics, and they play the Cavs once more this season.

[R_3]

Who's mom would do better in a spelling bee; Dwyane Wade's or Antawn Jamison's?

For the past few years I've rooted for the supposed "underdogs" in the playoffs. I was once behind Golden State, then New Orleans last year. This time around, I've got to go with Miami.

(hopes he spelled everything correctly or he'll look like a damn fool).

[Caped Crusader]

Come onnnnnnnnnnnn Detroit

[Nightmare]

:huh: Spurs have gotten quality wins over the Lakers, and Celtics, and they play the Cavs once more this season.

The spurs got a lucky buzzer beater foul at the end of the game vs the lakers in san antonio. The lakers won the other 2 games nicely. I didnt see the cavs game, but i know the win over in boston was with boston clearly short handed. When it counts (the playoffs) the spurs are not on the same level as the cavs,lakers or the celtics. Thats just my opinion.

[Go Web Go!]

One of the worst games I've seen from Miami all year, but I'll take the W.

[Caped Crusader]

Damn love that no call :whatever:

[Mister J]

One of the worst games I've seen from Miami all year, but I'll take the W.
Atrocious effort, especially considering no Rip, Sheed or AI, but it goes in the left column. Eh.

[Nightmare]

OMG Wade fouled him and after wade got the ball he stepped out of bounds!!!! D-Whistle gets all the calls!!111!!!!!!

Oh well.

[Immortalfire]

When it counts (the playoffs) the spurs are not on the same level as the cavs,lakers or the celtics. Thats just my opinion. :huh:

3 championships this decade..one of which was over the Cavs.

[Go Web Go!]

Sure, but the Cavs are 10x's better in 2009 than they were in 2007.

[Darthphere]

OMG Wade fouled him and after wade got the ball he stepped out of bounds!!!! D-Whistle gets all the calls!!111!!!!!!

Oh well.

That was not a foul, especially not for a last second shot.

[hitmanyr2k]

That was not a foul, especially not for a last second shot.

If Wade were the offensive player with Stuckey's arm in his gut pushing him off the shot I have no doubt he'd be on the free throw line.

[Darthphere]

If Wade were the offensive player with Stuckey's arm in his gut pushing him off the shot I have no doubt he'd be on the free throw line.

I guess we'll never know. That's one of those plays that has a 50-50 shot of getting called.

And while his arm was in Stuckey's gut, he didn't push him off with it. Come on now.:whatever:

[Nightmare]

:huh:

3 championships this decade..one of which was over the Cavs.

I meant this season..

[Go Web Go!]

OMG Wade fouled him and after wade got the ball he stepped out of bounds!!!! D-Whistle gets all the calls!!111!!!!!!

Oh well.

http://img158.imageshack.us/img158/4874/inbounds.jpg

In.

[Bond]

He really does get all the calls though... cough 2006 Finals cough...

[LastSunrise1981]

Everyone knows about my feelings of the 2006 Finals.

But let's be honest here, Detroit had a chance to win the game last night and Wade just made some key shots and key defensive plays. Say what you want about Wade, but he is a very smart player. He's not standing outside taking wild shots and praying they go in, he simply drives to the hoop on every play or takes a close shot on every play.

Wade made key blocks and key steals down the stretch.

It was a great game to watch while working out. :up: :up:

[Ghostvirus]

Godamn! It is good to see Detroit falling so hard. F**king great! Hopefully the Spurs are next.

[Silver Knight]

As of right now Detroit and Spurs are in the playoffs and the Bulls are not.. just saying.

[Darthphere]

He really does get all the calls though... cough 2006 Finals cough...

Maybe, but the Pistons never should have allowed 1) Haslem to get an offensive rebound and 2) Make a game winning shot. That is inexcusable.

And it wasn't a foul, and he was in bounds. Suck on that haters.:o

[Trainwreck2100]

The spurs got a lucky buzzer beater foul at the end of the game vs the lakers in san antonio. The lakers won the other 2 games nicely. I didnt see the cavs game, but i know the win over in boston was with boston clearly short handed. When it counts (the playoffs) the spurs are not on the same level as the cavs,lakers or the celtics. Thats just my opinion.

really?
http://www.nba.com/games/20090208/SASBOS/boxscore.html
I guess Boston really needed Gabe Pruitt for that game huh? So you missed the Cavs game where neither Ginobili or Duncan played?

[Mister J]

As of right now Detroit and Spurs are in the playoffs and the Bulls are not.. just saying.
And last year, you were rooting your little heart out for the Bulls ...until it became obvious they wouldn't make the playoffs. Just saying.

[Silver Knight]

You still cant get over I like some teams more then others dont you?
I support the Hornets and most of you guys really need to get over it.

[Nightmare]

really?
http://www.nba.com/games/20090208/SASBOS/boxscore.html
I guess Boston really needed Gabe Pruitt for that game huh? So you missed the Cavs game where neither Ginobili or Duncan played?

Ok so I made a mistake about that 1 game. They also sat Ginobili, Duncan and Parker vs the nuggets, I guess that means they arent as good as them too right? I stand by my Opinion. The spurs arent in the elite of the NBA this season.

in other news..


Pistons coach Michael Curry was ejected in the final seconds of Sunday's loss to the Heat, and a few players commented on the officiating after the game.
Detroit was upset that a foul wasn't called on Dwyane Wade as Rodney Stuckey drove to the basket on the team's final possession.
"They were calling us for those same fouls all game long, riding Wade to the basket," said Tayshaun Prince. "You can see why Coach Curry got thrown out the game because of that situation, and we felt what D-Wade did to Stuckey at the end of the game, they were calling us for those fouls on the other end over the course of the game.
"Obviously you know in late-game situations they are going to try to let us play, but I think you saw the inconsistency there when Stuck drove on that play and got rode all the way to the basket, and that was pretty much the game right there."
Wade blocked Stuckey's shot, but the Pistons felt as though there was significant contact.
"I guess the ref saw it different," said Stuckey. "I thought I went to the basket aggressively while he had 10 of his fingers on me and they didn't call the foul.
"He's an All-Star so I guess you are going to get those calls."

[Mister J]

I'm going to see if I can find an article citing Curry, Prince or Stuckey's comments on the numerous no-calls as Jason Maxiell climbed over the back of Haslem or Beasley to snag an offensive rebound. Or even when Spo got hit with a tech for asking what the hell was going on with that as the Pistons dominated the glass.

Oh wait, I forgot. No one ****es about the officials unless it's about the game's last minutes and/or a star is involved.

NBA Referee Bellyaching Action: It's FAN-tastic. :up:

[Go Web Go!]

Whether there were calls, no calls, blown calls, whatever - Detroit would have still been within 2 or 3 points by fouling Wade and sending him to the line after he took the ball from Stuckey. The Pistons can thank their coach for getting 2 techs & putting the game out of reach.

[Ghostvirus]

As of right now Detroit and Spurs are in the playoffs and the Bulls are not.. just saying.

First off man do you really think these shots you take at me about the Bulls affect me at all? I can't even take you seriously.

Case in point. The Bulls are actually as of right now in the 8th seed. So they are in the playoffs. As of right now. That could change many times until seasons end.

[Nightmare]

Good game saturday Ghost, I seriously thought the Bulls were gonna pull that out watching the first half.

[Ghostvirus]

I knew they were going to lose. They weren't taking the lead seriously. A good example of Veterans V.S. Newbs. Still good game.

[Go Web Go!]

Just what the doctor ordered: the Grizzlies. I hope JO was taking notes on how to grab rebounds from the bench tonight. Magloire had what JO averages (since joining the team) in the 1st quarter.