2013-14 NBA Season Thread

[korme]

Let's kick it off with a really (as usual) nicely done piece by Grantland's Zach Lowe about the chances of Miami three-peating and beyond.

Can LeBron James and the Miami Heat win a third NBA title? - Grantland (http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/9895807/can-lebron-james-miami-heat-win-third-nba-title)

Looking so very forward to this season. I'll be at the Pacers home opener tonight.

[JeeberD]

Cross-posting from the offseason thread...

I'm pumped for the Rockets season to start tomorrow. It looks like McHale has settled on the Howard as PF and Asik as C starting lineup that I was dreaming about when talk first started about Dwight coming to Houston. It also appears that Patrick Beverly will be starting at PG and Jeremy Lin will be first off the bench. I think the Rox have a chance to be very, very good this year if they can stay relatively healthy.

ESPN also likes the Rockets in the Southwest Division.

2013-14 Southwest Division champion - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nba/notebook/_/page/southwest1314/2013-14-southwest-division-champion)

[BishopMVP]

This seems like odd timing... Dallas Mavericks, general manager Gersson Rosas part ways - ESPN Dallas (http://espn.go.com/dallas/nba/story/_/id/9899190/dallas-mavericks-general-manager-gersson-rosas-part-ways)

[JeeberD]

You're welcome back in Houston, Gersson...

[Neuqua]

I haven't been this excited over a Bulls team since the MJ days. The NBA pitting the Rose's return against the Heat on opening night is going to give me a heart attack.

[nol]

Let's kick it off with a really (as usual) nicely done piece by Grantland's Zach Lowe about the chances of Miami three-peating and beyond.

Can LeBron James and the Miami Heat win a third NBA title? - Grantland (http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/9895807/can-lebron-james-miami-heat-win-third-nba-title)

Looking so very forward to this season. I'll be at the Pacers home opener tonight.

Holy cow. Footnote number 10 says that LeBron and Wade had a sparring/boxing session the night before Game 7. If this scene had been in a sports movie I probably would have stopped watching and complained about how they had to use such a heavy-handed metaphor for the struggle for alpha dog/leader status, but wow, this actually happened.

With that being the case, I have no idea this information was relegated to footnote status months after the fact when it seems like something that would have caused everyone's head to explode if the Heat had lost.

Here's another good read that'll quickly bring you up to speed on everything that's happened over the offseason: 68 reasons to watch the 2013-14*season | The Point Forward - SI.com (http://nba.si.com/2013/10/29/68-reasons-to-watch-2013-14-nba-season/)

[JPhillips]

British basketball commentary:

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/HxYikubciDE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[whomario]

really strapped for time, so not sure how much i´ll follow the season. But i´d like to, really looking forward to it a lot more than last year. Hope that not as many good players get injured this season.

some quick tidbits:

Very intrigued to see the Love/Pekovic/Rubio combination with some semblance of perimeter shooting around them (preseason looked good in that regard). Too bad Kirilenko isn´t there, that still bums me out to not see those 4 in action together ...

Durant could really go off this season and post utterly ridiculous numbers early. I think that Adams could be a really good adition even as a rookie, wouldn´t be shocked if he was the guy playing the bulk of minutes at Center in may/june.

The Knicks could be a train wreck of epic proportions if the start is a bad one.

Like with the Timberwolves, i´m all kinds of intrigued to see the Warriors this season. Taking that offense/shooting attack and adding Igoudala and (hopefully) a somewhat healthy Bogut would be neat.

I want to see what Houston can do, as well. Still think that getting a legit 4 and a wing defender instead of Howard would have been the better move, but it is what it is. Don´t see Howard/Asik working in the playoffs, at all. With less game planning in the regular season though, it could. Line coming off the bench is the right move, there´s no reason not to play him for every minute either Harden (then he handles the ball) or Howard (then he gets to push it on the break) is out the game.
Also, Omri Casspi and/or Motiejunas will be key. Casspi imo is a great player who got injured at the wrong time and then was in terrible situations. Could be a great role player. Motiejunas could turn out to be the de-facto PF when you can´t get away with either the Asik/Howard frontline or Casspi (or even Garcia) at the 4.

[Izulde]

Man, that Lakers comeback was a thing of beauty. I thought Kobe looked a little pissed that they were playing so well in that run without him, which was even better.

I got mad myself with so many damn thrown up and missed 3 pointers in the third quarter, but then that oh so lovely fourth quarter run happened.

Also too many turnovers, but man, Xavier Henry was freaking amazing to watch.

[RainMaker]

Rose looked real rusty. Bulls looked out of sync. Team will be fine though but disappointing way to start the season.

[Neon_Chaos]

I know it won't happen a lot... but that was an amazing game from the Lakers.

Seven seconds or less has officially arrived in Laker-land?

[Kodos]

Looking so very forward to this season. I'll be at the Pacers home opener tonight.

Jealous. Would have loved to have seen Victor Oladipo's first game in person.

[Chief Rum]

Awful game for the Clippers. They let the Lakers stay close through the first three quarters, and then just got obliterated by that magic fourth quarter the Lakers' second unit had.

[molson]

Rose should maybe take a couple of more seasons off to make sure he's back to 100%.

[korme]

Loved watching the Lakers beat the Clippers last night if only for the fact that it was like watching a 14 seed knock off a 3 seed in March Madness. The Lakers were running around celebrating like they didn't expect to win, it was great.

[korme]

Cross-posting from the offseason thread...



ESPN also likes the Rockets in the Southwest Division.

2013-14 Southwest Division champion - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nba/notebook/_/page/southwest1314/2013-14-southwest-division-champion)

I took Beverly in both fantasy leagues I'm in. Seems like a great call now. I love his game.

[korme]

Also too many turnovers, but man, Xavier Henry was freaking amazing to watch.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p>If the Lakers renounce Kobe and Pau, they can sign Xavier Henry to a max deal in July.</p>&mdash; Tomb Ziller (@teamziller) <a href="https://twitter.com/teamziller/statuses/395407342927224832">October 30, 2013</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[korme]

Jealous. Would have loved to have seen Victor Oladipo's first game in person.

People from Indiana were very confused as to what to do. There was a point where Oladipo scored to put Orlando up 57-56 and half the crowd was cheering. It was weird.

[sterlingice]

I took Beverly in both fantasy leagues I'm in. Seems like a great call now. I love his game.

I don't like him as a starter, tho. I don't like his size or endurance but one of those things he could have worked on in the offseason

SI

[sterlingice]

You're welcome back in Houston, Gersson...

I'd love to have him back but I'm guessing he'll be looking to be a GM-in-waiting somewhere else. Houston vs Dallas are just night and day front offices: in Houston the GM calls the shots while in Dallas the owner does.

SI

[sterlingice]

I want to see what Houston can do, as well. Still think that getting a legit 4 and a wing defender instead of Howard would have been the better move, but it is what it is. Don´t see Howard/Asik working in the playoffs, at all. With less game planning in the regular season though, it could. Line coming off the bench is the right move, there´s no reason not to play him for every minute either Harden (then he handles the ball) or Howard (then he gets to push it on the break) is out the game.

Also, Omri Casspi and/or Motiejunas will be key. Casspi imo is a great player who got injured at the wrong time and then was in terrible situations. Could be a great role player. Motiejunas could turn out to be the de-facto PF when you can´t get away with either the Asik/Howard frontline or Casspi (or even Garcia) at the 4.

Who would have been the legit 4 that was available this offseason that was a good fit? Josh Smith was the one name that came up but his shooting "philosophy" would have driven the front office nuts (Morey: "look, you're an excellent rebounder and good around the basket so we surrounded you with excellent shooters to pass to if you get in trouble down load. FYI: This shock collar will deliver 50,000 volts if you take a shot outside the paint").

I'm really wanting to see what Casspi can bring. Motiejunas has raw potential but I just don't think he's ready yet and I'm not sure he ever will be. I hope so, tho.

SI

[Kodos]

People from Indiana were very confused as to what to do. There was a point where Oladipo scored to put Orlando up 57-56 and half the crowd was cheering. It was weird.

I would absolutely be rooting for Orlando. :)

[murrayyyyy]

Awful game for the Clippers. They let the Lakers stay close through the first three quarters, and then just got obliterated by that magic fourth quarter the Lakers' second unit had.

The Clippers showed their true colors last night. Got up by 6 and then Griffin shot 3 straight 18+ ft shots with 10+ secs left on the clock. They won't be good until the players learn their roles on the team and I'm not sure they will be able to do that to make the jump to the next level playoff wise.

[Lathum]

It appears the heat have a hangover.

[EagleFan]

Michael Carter-Williams with one hell of a debut.

22 points (6 of 10 from the floor, 6 of 8 from the line, 4 of 6 from three)
12 assists
9 steals
7 rebounds
only 1 turnover
+12

[korme]

#SixersVsLakers #Finals2014

[ColtCrazy]

People from Indiana were very confused as to what to do. There was a point where Oladipo scored to put Orlando up 57-56 and half the crowd was cheering. It was weird.

I was at the game. Oladipo got a standing ovation when he came in. The place went nuts when he had that dunk on the break. My son was thrilled to see him. Several co-eds running around with Oladipo jerseys.

The crowd definitely wanted the Pacers to win, but loved seeing Oladipo play.

That said, Vaughn made tons of questionable decisions. Nicholson was 8 for 9 with 18 at halftime. He didn't get back in till the 4th quarter. Oladipo was the only guard that could get to the rim, yet he spent most of his time standing around watching Affalo or Nelson jack up useless shots.

[JeeberD]

It looks like Dwight was trying to beat the 33 boards Barkley had in his Rockets debut, but he came up short. Only 26 rebounds to go along with 17 points...what a slacker.

Harden couldn't hit anything until the fourth quarter, but Garcia and Lin kept them in the lead until Harden warmed up. 14 boards for Asik as well. Rockets win, 96-83.

[Arles]

Suns actually have a little bit of talent. It will still be a tough year for them, but Bledsoe and Dragic can play. Miles Plumlee putting up a double-double against Portland was a surprise as well. I mean, the sixers beat the Heat so the Suns beating the Trailblazers is no major accomplishment, but this team may atleast be watchable.

[RainMaker]

Not sure how Miami dismantles the Bulls one night and then loses to the Sixers who probably have the least amount of talent in the league.

[Izulde]

I'm pretty much over Nick Young's piss-poor shot selection already and we're only two games into the season.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Warriors take care of business against the Lakers thanks in large part to Klay Thompson's unreal night. This team is going to be fun to watch.

Also, in the 'hell freezing over' category, David Lee played pretty good defense tonight.

[sterlingice]

It looks like Dwight was trying to beat the 33 boards Barkley had in his Rockets debut, but he came up short. Only 26 rebounds to go along with 17 points...what a slacker.

Harden couldn't hit anything until the fourth quarter, but Garcia and Lin kept them in the lead until Harden warmed up. 14 boards for Asik as well. Rockets win, 96-83.

I wish I could have watched the game. Thanks, Comcast Houston :mad:

SI

[Bad-example]

I love that the Warriors have a more-than-statistically-insignificant chance to win an NBA championship in the next few years. I'm not a big NBA guy but that fan base sure deserves a few years of relevance.

[Izulde]

Allen Iverson career retrospective | The Point Forward - SI.com (http://nba.si.com/2013/10/30/allen-iverson-retirement-memories/)

I'm not going to lie... I loved AI. Sad to see him retire. One of the most fascinating players ever.

[korme]

You shouldn't be sad, you've had three years to prepare.

[spleen1015]

Iverson was never as good as people thought he was. Ok, he was really good, but the guy was the worst ball hog. I don't know if there have been other players like him or not. I just remember thinking he needed to get the rest of his team involved a whole lot more.

I remember being at this game (http://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199905210PHI.html).

In the second half, the 76ers possessions were all the same. Iverson brings the ball down the court, makes a move and shots with about 15 seconds left on the shot clock. It was the most boring 4th quarter I think I have ever watched.

[Kodos]

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/eGDBR2L5kzI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[nol]

Ahh.. The early NBA season. When the NBA's corporate lawyers haven't sniffed out the bootleg YouTube channels and you can still watch a 1-2 minute game highlight without being subjected to a 30 second ad before each one :D

[korme]

Been DVRing The Starters on NBAtv (the artists formerly known as TheBasketballJones). Nice to see everything from their podcast translate similarly to television. Hopefully they will get enough ratings to last.

[Miller Time]

Anybody know if it is possible to get radio broadcasts of games streamed live on iphone?

Similar to the MLB app where you can get both home and away radio feeds, I wish the NBA's app had the same option. Doesn't seem to. I would easily fork out 3.99 a month to get radio broadcasts alone. I don't want to watch the games live but would love to be able to listen to the radio broadcasts.

Any ideas?

[Shkspr]

Isn't it the loudspeaker icon on the top right hand corner of the Gametime App?

[BishopMVP]

Iverson was never as good as people thought he was. Ok, he was really good, but the guy was the worst ball hog. I don't know if there have been other players like him or not. I just remember thinking he needed to get the rest of his team involved a whole lot more.

I remember being at this game (http://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199905210PHI.html).

In the second half, the 76ers possessions were all the same. Iverson brings the ball down the court, makes a move and shots with about 15 seconds left on the shot clock. It was the most boring 4th quarter I think I have ever watched.He should have gotten Aaron McKie, Matt Geiger, Eric Snow and Theo Ratliff more involved? Maybe he would've been the same with another star around him, but we never saw him with a great teammate. I don't think there was another 6' guard that could have willed that team to the NBA finals.

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/grXws5m11SA?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[nol]

He should have gotten Aaron McKie, Matt Geiger, Eric Snow and Theo Ratliff more involved? Maybe he would've been the same with another star around him, but we never saw him with a great teammate. I don't think there was another 6' guard that could have willed that team to the NBA finals.

Jerry Stackhouse was coming off a 20 ppg rookie season the year Iverson was drafted, and they couldn't coexist so he got traded to the Pistons the following year. The Finals team was constructed in a way that was probably best for all parties: Iverson was surrounded by a bunch of guys who could play defense and rebound without getting mad about a lack of touches.

Shifting gears, here's Derrick Rose about to high-five a guy dressed as Marie Antoinette following his game-winning basket: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BX9F_z1CMAEilsz.jpg:large

[korme]

So this is a real thing that happened last night.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BX_pSinCQAAsKtp.png:large

[RedKingGold]

Only the 76ers can screw tanking up.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Was at the Kings-Clippers game tonight. Isaiah Thomas played out of his mind, put a nice scare into Lob City. Weird officiating though...it was as if the refs flipped a coin before each quarter to decide which team was going to get all the foul calls.

Fun game to be at, and it's easy to see why Kings fans are excited about their team sticking around - a lot of young talent there. Very, very raw talent, but it's there.

[Izulde]

Damn that was a frustrating loss for Lakers against Spurs. Still probably not a bad thing if they hit the lottery this year, especially if Kobe goes away after this year.

[nol]

As expected, the 76ers and Suns are both executing the classic tanking strategy of starting out 2-0 to make it look like they're trying before really piling on the losses. Or something like that.

[MrBug708]

Damn that was a frustrating loss for Lakers against Spurs. Still probably not a bad thing if they hit the lottery this year, especially if Kobe goes away after this year.

I think the Lakers only have a first if they finish in the top three of the draft. Otherwise it goes to the Suns

[Izulde]

Ah right. Forgot about that.

[MrBug708]

Too bad too. Good draft to have a decent pick in.

I think the Suns have four picks

[Desnudo]

Celtics are definitely going to be too good to truly stink when Rondo comes back

[Suicane75]

So, how about those 76ers?

[RedKingGold]

I feel like Rachel Phelps.

[Suicane75]

What if this really is a good team?

[korme]

Spencer Hawes ain't about that tank life

[Ironhead]

Elsewhere Anthony Davis is one assist away from a 5x5 game.

[RedKingGold]

What if this really is a good team?

Tony Wroten = franchise player?

That said, I really like MCW. There may be something special there.

[RainMaker]

Rose was real smart to not listen to his doctors and rehab his own way. Really paying off.

[nol]

Nicolas Batum with the late-game heroics against the Spurs, nailing the 35 footer at the buzzer to... clinch a triple double and push the final margin to 10 points.

[JeeberD]

Rockets come back from a 19 point deficit to beat he Jazz in Utah and start 3-0.

[Blackadar]

Celtics are definitely going to be too good to truly stink when Rondo comes back

Don't be so sure about that. At one point tonight the Cs were playing Bradley, Olynyk, Bass, Wallace and Crawford...at the same time. I don't care if Rondo is God, he still can't make that group win. :)

[Blackadar]

And on that point, let's recap the last two minutes of the Celtics vs Detroit. The Celtics were trailing by two...

Lee turnover
Lee fouls
Pistons sink two free throws, Pistons by 4

Bradley turnover
Pistons miss layup
Bradley turnover again
Wallace fouls
Pistons sink two free throws. Pistons by 6

Wallace has 3 pointer blocked
Pistons make layup (miss free throw). Pistons by 8

Bass has shot blocked.
Pistons make 1 out of 2 free throws. Pistons by 9.

Wallace turnover.
Pistons make 1 out of 2 free throws. Pistons by 10.

End of game.

I've seen better basketball at the YMCA. There's no way to describe how bad that stretch was. Rondo ain't helping that much unless he's joined by a 25 year old Bill Russell and Larry Bird.

[Desnudo]

They may lose so much by the time he returns it wont matter

[Neon_Chaos]

How about that Lakers bench.

[Chief Rum]

How about that Lakers bench.

They're great when they show up. I'm gonna guess that's gonna be maybe 30% of the time in the end.

[BishopMVP]

And on that point, let's recap the last two minutes of the Celtics vs Detroit. The Celtics were trailing by two...

Lee turnover
Lee fouls
Pistons sink two free throws, Pistons by 4

Bradley turnover
Pistons miss layup
Bradley turnover again
Wallace fouls
Pistons sink two free throws. Pistons by 6

Wallace has 3 pointer blocked
Pistons make layup (miss free throw). Pistons by 8

Bass has shot blocked.
Pistons make 1 out of 2 free throws. Pistons by 9.

Wallace turnover.
Pistons make 1 out of 2 free throws. Pistons by 10.

End of game.

I've seen better basketball at the YMCA. There's no way to describe how bad that stretch was. Rondo ain't helping that much unless he's joined by a 25 year old Bill Russell and Larry Bird.To be fair, Sullinger's just coming off injury and Stevens has made some curious decisions about playing time regarding Jeff Green, Kris Humphries and Vitor Faverani. I'm fine with it because if you're going to tank, let's do it properly, but we basically threw the Bucks game in the last 20 minutes, and that lineup/play selection near the end of that Pistons game was clearly not designed to give us our best chance to win.

[Izulde]

They're great when they show up. I'm gonna guess that's gonna be maybe 30% of the time in the end.

Sounds about right. When they're on, they're definitely on, but I'm not seeing them having great consistency as a whole.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Warriors reminding Philly that they're supposed to be terrible this year. 95-58 with two minutes left in the third. Iguodala shooting the lights out and Curry a rebound away from a triple double.

[korme]

Anyone have Chad Ford's 1.1 Mock Draft? It's Insider Only so I can't view it, but I hear Jabari Parker is all the way down to 6th.

[nol]

Minnesota picks up its first loss but keeps the season-long streak of holding Anthony Bennett without a field goal alive.

[nol]

Anyone have Chad Ford's 1.1 Mock Draft? It's Insider Only so I can't view it, but I hear Jabari Parker is all the way down to 6th.

That sounds silly. I'd guess that Wiggins, Randle, Embiid, Exum and maybe Smart would be ahead of him. I've heard things from KU along the lines of "if you didn't know the players and had to guess which one was the consensus no. 1 pick, you'd guess Embiid."

I think Parker was at less than 100 percent last year and will do well enough this year to be solidly in the top 3, though.

[korme]

Yeah, I think the KU center is #4... you nailed the top 5 ahead of Parker. To me, it just suggests how potentially awesome this draft will be.

Chad says Embiid has scouts calling him Hakeem Olajuwon-esque. I love the pre-draft hype haha.

[BishopMVP]

To be fair, Sullinger's just coming off injury and Stevens has made some curious decisions about playing time regarding Jeff Green, Kris Humphries and Vitor Faverani. I'm fine with it because if you're going to tank, let's do it properly, but we basically threw the Bucks game in the last 20 minutes, and that lineup/play selection near the end of that Pistons game was clearly not designed to give us our best chance to win.And on cue, the Celtics get outscored by double digits in another game they were leading going into the 4th.

[Arles]

Anyone have Chad Ford's 1.1 Mock Draft? It's Insider Only so I can't view it, but I hear Jabari Parker is all the way down to 6th.
He goes:
1. Wiggins
2. Julius Randle
3. Marcus Smart
4. Joel Embiid
5. Dante Exum
6. Jabari Parker
7. Aaron Gordon

I think that, by the end of the season, both Parker and Gordon will be in the top 5. This might be Ford trying to get too cute.

[sterlingice]

Houston gives up 76... in the first half and lose to the Clippers out in LA.

SI

[RedKingGold]

Warriors reminding Philly that they're supposed to be terrible this year. 95-58 with two minutes left in the third. Iguodala shooting the lights out and Curry a rebound away from a triple double.

I'll allow it!

[Blackadar]

And on cue, the Celtics get outscored by double digits in another game they were leading going into the 4th.

I just think they're that bad. There's no one on that team who can shoulder the load down the stretch.

[jbergey22]

With last years weak draft and lack of free agency movement this year some teams are really bad this year. Some of them being very surprising.

Lakers
Celtics
Magic
Bucks
Jazz
Suns

Even if Kobe comes back 100 percent I would have a hard time seeing this Lakers team sniff the playoffs. They have a bunch of castoffs and players on their last leg. Lakers really need a major overhaul soon.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Aren't the Lakers basically going empty cupboard + Kobe for next year? Pretty sure they are clearing a ton of salary cap room after this season. I don't expect them to remain a bottom feeder for long.

[DaddyTorgo]

To be fair, Sullinger's just coming off injury and Stevens has made some curious decisions about playing time regarding Jeff Green, Kris Humphries and Vitor Faverani. I'm fine with it because if you're going to tank, let's do it properly, but we basically threw the Bucks game in the last 20 minutes, and that lineup/play selection near the end of that Pistons game was clearly not designed to give us our best chance to win.

Good :)

Write this season off...tank properly and get that high pick.

[Blackadar]

To be fair, Sullinger's just coming off injury and Stevens has made some curious decisions about playing time regarding Jeff Green, Kris Humphries and Vitor Faverani. I'm fine with it because if you're going to tank, let's do it properly, but we basically threw the Bucks game in the last 20 minutes, and that lineup/play selection near the end of that Pistons game was clearly not designed to give us our best chance to win.

More like Sullinger's busy winning pie-eating contests; Jeff Green is inconsistent; Hump isn't any good; Vitor had one decent game out of 4.

Even with Rondo, tanking is the way to go. Get Pressley some time and see if he's any good. If so, showcase Rondo and get some more trade chips at the deadline.

[jbergey22]

Aren't the Lakers basically going empty cupboard + Kobe for next year? Pretty sure they are clearing a ton of salary cap room after this season. I don't expect them to remain a bottom feeder for long.

That would make sense if that is what they are up to. They arent leaving much right now for Kobe in his twilight years if that is the case however. Maybe they need to consider trading him.

[jbergey22]

More like Sullinger's busy winning pie-eating contests; Jeff Green is inconsistent; Hump isn't any good; Vitor had one decent game out of 4.

Even with Rondo, tanking is the way to go. Get Pressley some time and see if he's any good. If so, showcase Rondo and get some more trade chips at the deadline.

I think Jeff Green could be a nice piece to keep around if they can get some decent post play. Like you say he has been inconsistent but he has really never been in a position to get consistent shots like he will this year. I think he will average around 20 this year with a decent efficiency rate.

[MrBug708]

And Dwight shows that he still cannot lead a team to victory in LA. 5-16 from the line and end up losing by 1

There was also this story
http://atlantablackstar.com/2013/11/06/dwight-howard-demand-police-acton-after-fan-hits-him-in-the-head-with-a-basketball/

[Izulde]

And Dwight shows that he still cannot lead a team to victory in LA. 5-16 from the line and end up losing by 1

There was also this story
Dwight Howard Demands Police Action After Fan Hits Him With Basketball - Atlanta Black Star (http://atlantablackstar.com/2013/11/06/dwight-howard-demand-police-acton-after-fan-hits-him-in-the-head-with-a-basketball/)

So glad to see Howard lose the game for Houston in that fashion against the Lakers. :)

I wonder if he ended up autographing that ball.

[Neon_Chaos]

Goooooo Lakers!

[korme]

lol laker fans

BTW, Jodie Meeks is Antawn Jamison's doppelganger face-wise. It's really confusing.

[Neon_Chaos]

When Kobe comes back everything will be alright. Right? Right?

[Alf]

“Sources say security found the person who had the ball — a 22-year-old man — and detained him inside the stadium to conduct an investigation. We’re told the LAPD was also involved.
Come to find out the fan just wanted Dwight’s autograph and the ball accidentally slipped out of his hands. The video footage in the arena backed up his story and he was released by security.”

Fucking shit..... You can be arrested for dropping a ball. Meh.

[whomario]

I'm pretty much over Nick Young's piss-poor shot selection already and we're only two games into the season.

look forward to those 2 meeting on the court :D Over/under on how many games it takes for Kobe to go ballistic on Young ?

http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2013/1107/grant_e_youngkobe_576x906.jpg

[Chief Rum]

look forward to those 2 meeting on the court :D Over/under on how many games it takes for Kobe to go ballistic on Young ?

http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2013/1107/grant_e_youngkobe_576x906.jpg

If you can go fractions of a game, I will go with 0.5 games.

[miami_fan]

look forward to those 2 meeting on the court :D Over/under on how many games it takes for Kobe to go ballistic on Young ?

http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2013/1107/grant_e_youngkobe_576x906.jpg

Thought the same thing

I am going under .5

Kobe is going to go ballistic the day before he makes his season debut.

[nol]

My god, Paul George has been balling this year. 25, 8 and 4 and the Pacers are winning 116-87 every 100 possessions he's on the floor. The All-NBA forward spots are going to be ridiculously crowded. If you slot in James, Durant, Love and George, that leaves two third team spots for everyone else.

[Chief Rum]

Speaking of nice starts, Bledsoe in the early going is doing exactly what people thought he was capable of if he got a chance to start: so far, 21 ppg, 7 apg, 5 rpg, 2 spg. He does need to cut down on the turnovers (4.5).

[nol]

Speaking of nice starts, Bledsoe in the early going is doing exactly what people thought he was capable of if he got a chance to start: so far, 21 ppg, 7 apg, 5 rpg, 2 spg. He does need to cut down on the turnovers (4.5).

Yeah, he's definitely making the Suns more fun to watch than I thought. He'll probably cost them a few ping pong balls, but it'll be worth it if they can sign him long term.

[Arles]

Yeah, he's definitely making the Suns more fun to watch than I thought. He'll probably cost them a few ping pong balls, but it'll be worth it if they can sign him long term.

Ryan McDonough: 'Very confident' Eric Bledsoe will be a Phoenix Sun long-term ArizonaSports.com (http://arizonasports.com/41/1675151/HES-OURS)
Heading into this season, though, the Suns had an opportunity to sign the 6-foot-1, 195-pound Bledsoe to a long-term contract extension, but ultimately could not agree to terms. Now, no matter how well he plays, the former Clipper will become a restricted free agent at the conclusion of the season, which has some worried that this may be a one-year rental, so to speak.

Suns GM Ryan McDonough is not one of those people.

"I feel very confident that he's going to be a Sun long-term," he told Burns and Gambo Wednesday. "We negotiated with Eric and his agents. I think the contract situation was handled very professionally on both ends."

McDonough said he feels good about how Bledsoe's agents approached the contract talks and hopes they feel the same way about the team's front office.

But more than anything, the first-year general manager wants fans to know that the "restricted" in "restricted free agency" is a very important word.

"We can match any offer to Eric next summer," he said. "Another advantage would be we have an extra year to play with. Other teams who are making Eric an offer can offer him four years, we can offer him up to five if we chose to do so.

"So there's some inherent advantages that I just mentioned, also we can give higher percentage increases than another team could give Eric in a contract."
I really don't get why teams do early contracts with their RFAs (esp one with injuries or questions). The system is setup to make it virtually impossible for the player to leave if you want to sign him longterm after this season. Waiting seems to be the best move as if the player does what you hope with an early extension, you either match the offer gets or make a 5-year deal he would be silly to turn down.

[nol]

Ryan McDonough: 'Very confident' Eric Bledsoe will be a Phoenix Sun long-term ArizonaSports.com (http://arizonasports.com/41/1675151/HES-OURS)

I really don't get why teams do early contracts with their RFAs (esp one with injuries or questions). The system is setup to make it virtually impossible for the player to leave if you want to sign him longterm after this season. Waiting seems to be the best move as if the player does what you hope with an early extension, you either match the offer gets or make a 5-year deal he would be silly to turn down.

Yeah, the "worst case" scenario is that he plays well enough for teams to give him the max, but that's a pleasant enough surprise for the extra $2-3 million/year to be worth it.

However, I can also see the benefit of demonstrating the organization's commitment to the star player while also removing all of the day-to-day free agent speculation that would come from getting the extension out of the way early if you're a team that's in a hurry to contend.

[whomario]

James Harden is becoming more unlikeable every game ... Aparently he went ballistic on Lin for taking a late shot in the Lakers game, which came in a situation where Harden clearly ignored the play for an iso, which basically forced the Rockets and Lin into that bad shot.
Harden also plays literally no defense, doesn´t put any effort into play on that end.

Kevin Love with an amazing game last night, averaging 28/15/5 through six games. Pacers looking great.

[sterlingice]

I didn't hear about the Lin-Harden thing but the defense from the Rockets so far this season has been miserable. It's all about taking chances because there are two giant trees in the middle. The problem is - it's not like Howard or Asik can keep up speed-wise with guards so they just find some open space and knock down shots. Gambling doesn't hurt you too much in college where most kids can't hit the open shots consistently but not in the NBA. Harden's D has been atrocious: he's just been ole'ing people consistently.

SI

[Desnudo]

Good :)

Write this season off...tank properly and get that high pick.

No such luck. I think they hired a coach too competent to allow that to happen. I'm feeling a 5-10 pick.

[larrymcg421]

Crazy ending in Miami. Heat were up on the Celtics by 4 with under 2 secs left. C's cut it to 2 and foul Wade with .6 seconds left. He misses the first free throw, then tries to intentionally miss the second one, but misses the rim completely, so no time goes off the clock. Jeff Green receives a cross court inbounds pass and somehow makes a ridiculous three over LeBron to win the game.

[molson]

Jeff Green winning shot

Jeff Green's AMAZING Buzzer-Beater vs Miami (11.09.2013) - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SA29ZsIrMjQ)

[Neon_Chaos]

Thats what you get for dicking around with your freethrows Dwyane.

[Desnudo]

Utah chalking up an amazing -13 point differential in the wane for wiggins race

[whomario]

Just a very young team, think they´ll still win some games later in the year. That bench is a bad joke, but other than that there isn´t a lot of blame to go arround. It´s not really tanking imo, simply deciding to see what they have first before spending money. What good would it have been to bring in high salary players before this offseason ? Or to keep Jefferson/Millsap when you have 2 guys like Kanter/Favors behind them ?


Spurs absolutely dominating the Knicks at MSG. This turned really ugly really fast. Were up nearly 40 early in the 4th.
Boris Diaw is an amazing player to watch and there´s not many players who could draw that observation (even if it´s just by me ;) ) putting up a 4/1/1 in 25 minutes (after starting off the season surprisingly agressive, often as the small ball center/PF). It´s a shame he didn´t land on a team like the Spurs a few years earlier, where no one cares that he doesn´t like to score.

The player impressing me most early on is Anthony Davis btw, that kid is an absolute freak. Could be a blend of Garnett/Duncan when he´s fully developed. Is an amazing defender (whose blocks turn into Fastbreak points more often than anybody elses i´d guess, often he blocks the shot and then scores on the other end), runs the floor ridiculously hard and fast and on offense he not only has a good looking jumpshot but also has what you can only describe as "guard skills" with the ball in his hands. Needs to become a better passer, but his ability to keep his dribble and get to the basket as a big is pretty impressive.

[sterlingice]

I saw that line he put up the other night against the Lakers and if the speed of the NBA is starting to slow down for him, then Davis is going to be a treat to watch for the next few years

SI

[DaddyTorgo]

No such luck. I think they hired a coach too competent to allow that to happen. I'm feeling a 5-10 pick.

I have a bad feeling you're right, which will mean limbo and another dogshit team.

Failing at tanking - why am I not surprised.

[Neuqua]

That Anthony Davis vine posted on deadspin is............... odd.

[whomario]

http://i40.tinypic.com/nwzles.jpg

Been doing that twice a game this season, Love and Brewer are a perfect match in that regard.

Rubio with a Triple double. Still can´t shoot the ball well enough, but other than that he looks great. His defense has been spectacular along with his passing (and it´s not just the assists, the guy has so many hockey-assists due to making the right pass 99% of the time).

[Ironhead]

Stout defense from Bargs.

http://s3.amazonaws.com/br-cdn/temp_images/2013/11/11/original.gif

[BishopMVP]

I have a bad feeling you're right, which will mean limbo and another dogshit team.

Failing at tanking - why am I not surprised.Wiggins and Randle do look a class above at 1-2 based on early returns, but the draft's projected to be deep enough you might get a superstar in the 3-7 range.

[Neuqua]

Ugh, Rose limps out of the game.

[larrymcg421]

Ugh, Rose limps out of the game.

Don't worry. I'm sure he'll be back in 2-3 years.

[jbergey22]

Timberwolves are going to regret not giving KLove that final year. This team looks like a potential 4/5 seed in the West this year. Long time coming.

[Blackadar]

Shows what I know. I bash the Celtics and they win 4 in a row.

Brad Stevens has them playing hard. I don't think they're for real, but they're playing hard. Their schedule has been really easy thus far - besides Miami (4-3) they haven't played anyone with a winning record. The Minny - Houston - Spurs - Pacers - Atlanta stretch coming up will test that team. Still, I didn't think they'd win 4 in a row all season.

Better yet, some of the guys might start looking like viable trade pieces. Jeff Green is looking like that viable 2nd or 3rd scorer with 17/4/2. Brandon Bass is a good locker room guy who is averaging 12.5/5. Crawford is 11/4 in only 24 minutes per game - a PER of 22.3 - and could act as a scoring spark off the bench. If these guys keep this up, they'll be valuable commodities at the trade deadline.

[DaddyTorgo]

Shows what I know. I bash the Celtics and they win 4 in a row.

Brad Stevens has them playing hard. I don't think they're for real, but they're playing hard. Their schedule has been really easy thus far - besides Miami (4-3) they haven't played anyone with a winning record. The Minny - Houston - Spurs - Pacers - Atlanta stretch coming up will test that team. Still, I didn't think they'd win 4 in a row all season.

Better yet, some of the guys might start looking like viable trade pieces. Jeff Green is looking like that viable 2nd or 3rd scorer with 17/4/2. Brandon Bass is a good locker room guy who is averaging 12.5/5. Crawford is 11/4 in only 24 minutes per game - a PER of 22.3 - and could act as a scoring spark off the bench. If these guys keep this up, they'll be valuable commodities at the trade deadline.

Failing at tanking properly - your 2013-2014 Boston Celtics.

Why am I not surprised. Ainge should have put a caretaker coach in place for this year, or else told Stevens explicitly that he wouldn't be judged on the W-L record of this year.

[Blackadar]

Failing at tanking properly - your 2013-2014 Boston Celtics.

Why am I not surprised. Ainge should have put a caretaker coach in place for this year, or else told Stevens explicitly that he wouldn't be judged on the W-L record of this year.

Stevens has a 6 year, $22m guaranteed contract. Financially he's untouchable. Plus, he knows he was hired for a long-term rebuilding job and isn't accountable to W-Ls this year.

Still, I'd rather the team try hard rather than pull an ML Carr 15-67 tanking season.

[Ronnie Dobbs3]

Failing at tanking properly - your 2013-2014 Boston Celtics.

Why am I not surprised. Ainge should have put a caretaker coach in place for this year, or else told Stevens explicitly that he wouldn't be judged on the W-L record of this year.

Do you get any joy whatsoever out of following sports?

[DaddyTorgo]

Stevens has a 6 year, $22m guaranteed contract. Financially he's untouchable. Plus, he knows he was hired for a long-term rebuilding job and isn't accountable to W-Ls this year.

Still, I'd rather the team try hard rather than pull an ML Carr 15-67 tanking season.

True. I disagree though. I was thinking 2-80 sounds about right.

[DaddyTorgo]

Do you get any joy whatsoever out of following sports?

I do. I'm not really "following" the Celtics this year though, seeing as they ought to be trying for an 0-82 record.

[Desnudo]

Stevens has a 6 year, $22m guaranteed contract. Financially he's untouchable. Plus, he knows he was hired for a long-term rebuilding job and isn't accountable to W-Ls this year.

Still, I'd rather the team try hard rather than pull an ML Carr 15-67 tanking season.

Yes, I'm sure Stevens and Ainge had this conversation. Maybe even brought up Tim Duncan. Stevens seems too principled to do something like that. Plus intentionally losing develops terrible habits.

I thought they would lose naturally through poor talent levels.

[molson]

It's hard for me to get too worked up over the 2017 NBA season (or whenever the Celtics are supposed to be magically be good if they lose on purpose this season). I'd rather just have the surprisingly good season, and not lose the year of real development for the guys you want to keep, and not damage the trade value of the guys you don't, rather than throw all that away for a mystery player X who may or may not be good at some point in the future (if you win the lottery, that is). Edit: It's been a good decade or so for Boston sports and winning championships, but I learned long before that if your entire enjoyment of your team depends on them winning the whole thing, you're going to be pretty disappointed pretty much all the time.

Of course, I'd much rather just have a real lottery so this conversation doesn't have to occur every year.

[jbergey22]

I do. I'm not really "following" the Celtics this year though, seeing as they ought to be trying for an 0-82 record.

The very reason the lottery is such a good thing in the NBA. I think November is a bit early to start the "tanking" process;)

[molson]

Maybe even brought up Tim Duncan.

Brought up the fact that they engaged in an epic tank job to get Ron Mercer and 1/2 a season of Chauncey Billups?

[Vince, Pt. II]

Timberwolves are going to regret not giving KLove that final year. This team looks like a potential 4/5 seed in the West this year. Long time coming.

So many good teams in the West though. Who are they passing? We'll call San Antonio, Oklahoma City and the Clippers the top three teams. Is Minnesota ready to hang with the likes of Memphis, Golden State and Houston? Unfortunately, being an up-and-comer in the West means hoping like hell for a 7-8 seed.

[BishopMVP]

Shows what I know. I bash the Celtics and they win 4 in a row.

Brad Stevens has them playing hard. I don't think they're for real, but they're playing hard. Their schedule has been really easy thus far - besides Miami (4-3) they haven't played anyone with a winning record. The Minny - Houston - Spurs - Pacers - Atlanta stretch coming up will test that team. Still, I didn't think they'd win 4 in a row all season.

Better yet, some of the guys might start looking like viable trade pieces. Jeff Green is looking like that viable 2nd or 3rd scorer with 17/4/2. Brandon Bass is a good locker room guy who is averaging 12.5/5. Crawford is 11/4 in only 24 minutes per game - a PER of 22.3 - and could act as a scoring spark off the bench. If these guys keep this up, they'll be valuable commodities at the trade deadline.More like Sullinger's busy winning pie-eating contests; Jeff Green is inconsistent; Hump isn't any good; Vitor had one decent game out of 4.

Even with Rondo, tanking is the way to go. Get Pressley some time and see if he's any good. If so, showcase Rondo and get some more trade chips at the deadline.Like I said back then when you broke down that incredibly ugly end of game sequence that wasn't close to the Celtics best crunch-time lineup, to the point it looked like Brad Stevens was trying to throw the game. Courtney Lee and Gerald Wallace should not even be on the floor at that point, let alone initiating the offense, and Avery Bradley should be out there, but playing off ball and not running the offense.

Jeff Green's been that player since last year when Rondo went down... put up 17/5/3 the last 3 months on 49% shooting with a healthy number of 3's. It's why he was such a frustrating player to watch before then - getting to the rim and scoring looks easy for him when he attacks, and he shows a willingness and ability to match up as effectively against LeBron as anyone in the league, which makes it all the more frustrating when he would spend long stretches looking disinterested against lesser teams. The plan always was to see if he could make a leap to legitimate building block this year, which is why I assumed Stevens was tanking when he kept him on the bench at the end of the Milwaukee and Detroit losses, but it appears more like that was just a one-off fluke.

I love Avery Bradley for his psychotic on-ball defense, but it's always been very clear he's not a PG, so it's not a surprise they've done better once Stevens moved him to the 2 and let someone else be the primary ball-handler. We'll see how his shooting ends the year - I'd love nothing more than for last year's 40% showing to just be an aberration due to his injury, but I'm skeptical.

Sully's always looked fat going back to Ohio State, but he's efficient and can rebound and it's no coincidence we're doing better since his minutes were doubled. Never say never with Ainge, but I don't think any of those 3 players are looked at as trade pieces like the other veterans.

Pressey I have no faith in based off consistently choking at the end of games in college, but he does have NBA measurables and Rondo was basically accused of throwing games when at Kentucky too.

Kris Humphries isn't good, and isn't a long-term piece, but he's a competent NBA rotation player who can rebound really well, so it's weird to see him do well in the 2 games with 20 minutes and then immediately go back to DNP-CD.

Vitor I may have slightly prematurely jumped the gun on, but again, not sure how a guy puts up 12/18/6 blocks in his 2nd NBA game then plays 6:04 and 2:41 in games the next week.

Jordan Crawford's weird. He has that rep as a Nick Young-type gunner, but that's more due to the high number of shot attempts per minute than his game. When you watch him he's still crazy high usage and might be the most aggressive player in the league going 1 on 3 or 2 on 5 in transition, but he actually looks to pass a shocking amount compared to his rep and his assist numbers have always backed that up. Having him start and play 30+ minutes a game at PG is stretching it, but he really is our best option there right now.

[jbergey22]

So many good teams in the West though. Who are they passing? We'll call San Antonio, Oklahoma City and the Clippers the top three teams. Is Minnesota ready to hang with the likes of Memphis, Golden State and Houston? Unfortunately, being an up-and-comer in the West means hoping like hell for a 7-8 seed.

I dont think they are better than Houston once Houston gets rolling but I can see them right there with Golden State and Memphis. Dallas would probably be in that mix as well.

With the Lakers and Denver falling off I think it leaves room for a surprise team or two this year. It is maybe too soon to count Denver out but they have a lot of injury concerns right now and that defense will be awful until McGee comes back.

[Vince, Pt. II]

It'll be interesting to see how it plays out. Warriors fans have dreams of unseating the Clippers and getting a top 3 seed, but they also seem to cling to the nice playoff run and forget that the Warriors were nine games worse than the Clippers last year. A healthy Bogut + Iguodala + growth and development from Barnes, Thompson and the rest of the youngsters is a big gain...but I'm not sure if it's enough to make up nine games, especially since I think the Clippers are better this year too.

[jbergey22]

It'll be interesting to see how it plays out. Warriors fans have dreams of unseating the Clippers and getting a top 3 seed, but they also seem to cling to the nice playoff run and forget that the Warriors were nine games worse than the Clippers last year. A healthy Bogut + Iguodala + growth and development from Barnes, Thompson and the rest of the youngsters is a big gain...but I'm not sure if it's enough to make up nine games, especially since I think the Clippers are better this year too.

I think the Wolves this year and Warriors are very similar teams now that the wolves brought in a talented shooting guard. The Warriors are more efficient offensively with Curry and Thompson but I think the Wolves rebound better. Defensively the Warriors are stronger as long as Bogut stays healthy. Depth wise I dont think either team can lose Curry, Love, Lee, Rubio, Peko, or Bogut and not have a serious fall off. Iguodala was a nice addition but I dont feel he will be a very big part of the offense unless they get out in transition. Similar to Brewer for the Wolves.

We shall see.

[Chief Rum]

What shooting guard? Martin?

[Vince, Pt. II]

I'm also not sold on Houston. I think they'll be a playoff team, but their defense is terribad.

[jbergey22]

What shooting guard? Martin?

Yes, Kevin.

[whomario]

What shooting guard? Martin?

Sure he isn´t a first option, but compared to that horror show the Wolves trotted out at SG over the last few years he is a signinficant upgrade.
And so far, it´s evident that him and the Wolves style of play is a perfect match.
And Corey Brewer is a great fit as well. Martin/Brewer/Budinger could be a really decent 2/3 rotation.

Wolves still need another shooter and the bench sucks (similar to the Blazers last year so far in that the starters are basically top5 in the league but the bench bottom 5) but both things Budinger might be able to help with, Turiaf also looked good when he played and should be back soon.

Of course Budinger hasn´t really played in a long time, so you´ll have to see how he looks.

[Blackadar]

Like I said back then when you broke down that incredibly ugly end of game sequence that wasn't close to the Celtics best crunch-time lineup, to the point it looked like Brad Stevens was trying to throw the game. Courtney Lee and Gerald Wallace should not even be on the floor at that point, let alone initiating the offense, and Avery Bradley should be out there, but playing off ball and not running the offense.

Not entirely disagreeing, just discussing...

I don't think they were trying to throw the game. I think so of the preseason performances were so abysmal that Stevens was trying to figure out who to put out there during the end of the game. For example, Gerald Wallace looked ok during preseason and now looks dreadful. Jeff Green looked dreadful during the preseason and now looks good. I was figuring that if that was the best the Cs could throw out there during crunch time they might not win 10 games all year. It's turning out that Stevens may have found a few combinations that click during the actual games.


Jeff Green's been that player since last year when Rondo went down... put up 17/5/3 the last 3 months on 49% shooting with a healthy number of 3's. It's why he was such a frustrating player to watch before then - getting to the rim and scoring looks easy for him when he attacks, and he shows a willingness and ability to match up as effectively against LeBron as anyone in the league, which makes it all the more frustrating when he would spend long stretches looking disinterested against lesser teams. The plan always was to see if he could make a leap to legitimate building block this year, which is why I assumed Stevens was tanking when he kept him on the bench at the end of the Milwaukee and Detroit losses, but it appears more like that was just a one-off fluke.

I love Avery Bradley for his psychotic on-ball defense, but it's always been very clear he's not a PG, so it's not a surprise they've done better once Stevens moved him to the 2 and let someone else be the primary ball-handler. We'll see how his shooting ends the year - I'd love nothing more than for last year's 40% showing to just be an aberration due to his injury, but I'm skeptical.

Sully's always looked fat going back to Ohio State, but he's efficient and can rebound and it's no coincidence we're doing better since his minutes were doubled. Never say never with Ainge, but I don't think any of those 3 players are looked at as trade pieces like the other veterans.

The question mark with Green was could he do that without Pierce or Garnett available to take the heat off of him. It appears that he can, which makes him a bargain at his salary. He certainly is frustratingly inconsistent given his talent level.

I like Bradley's game too. He's being misused right now, but the kid's defense is invaluable. He's a younger, better version of Tony Allen. I think that's an undervalued trait in the NBA.

Sully even said he was fat this year. I like his potential though.

As you said, "never say never with Ainge". I think they're more likely to move Bass and/or Crawford than Green, but I think Green may get the most interest at the trade deadline. Personally, I think the Cs should showcase and then move him. He's already 27 and by the time the rest of the pieces of this team can come together, he'll be on the downside of his career. Rondo's assists could mean he's valuable until his mid-30s, but I don't see that with Green. So I think he may go during the deadline, even moreso than Rondo.

I don't think Bradley will get offers that indicate his true value and Sully has too much potential to move so early. He's 20/10 on a per-36 basis already this year and while I'm not a big fan of per-36, it still shows he's producing at a nice rate even while working himself into shape.

And after Pitino, I wouldn't trade away a guy like Sully. :) They could have had a decade of Tracy McGrady and Chauncey Billups. That's the making of a damn good team. Instead they got nothing from '97 from not picking the right guys and then giving up on Billups after a month.

I also think Crawford is a potential showcase. He's only 25, has an expiring contract and can score. If he continues to sheds that "selfish" tag and shows he can work within a team game, the Cs will get a lot of feelers on him. If he can keep up his averages from the last 4 games (13 ppg, 6 assists), he could be very attractive to a bunch of teams as a combo guard and the first guy off the bench.

I think we'll know a lot more in two weeks. Bobcats and Blazers (5-2) at home, then 5 out of 6 on the road against some very good teams. If the team is still performing well (even if they're not winning), then maybe the Cs have something. If not, it's the "Showcase for Trades" game and then tank the last half of the season.

[nol]

Sure he isn´t a first option, but compared to that horror show the Wolves trotted out at SG over the last few years he is a signinficant upgrade.
And so far, it´s evident that him and the Wolves style of play is a perfect match.
And Corey Brewer is a great fit as well. Martin/Brewer/Budinger could be a really decent 2/3 rotation.

Wolves still need another shooter and the bench sucks (similar to the Blazers last year so far in that the starters are basically top5 in the league but the bench bottom 5) but both things Budinger might be able to help with, Turiaf also looked good when he played and should be back soon.

Of course Budinger hasn´t really played in a long time, so you´ll have to see how he looks.

Yeah, the bench is just too bad. I was a Kevin Love hater early in his career, but he's gotten so much better and is 100% legit now. There's just no way he and Martin can keep up the insane starts they've had for the entire season, and they'd pretty much need to in order to get homecourt, and I don't see them winning a series without it. I can see them losing in the first round in one of those series that has a ton of good games in it, like their matchup with the Clippers the last night.

[whomario]

Martin misses the game with Illness, Wolves still drop 124 on the Cavs :D Love with 33/8/6 (for the season he´s at 26/15/5), Brewer scores 37 and Rubio has 16/6/16 with 3 steals (3.4 for the season).

76ers beat Houston even with Carter-Williams out, Wroten a TD, James Anderson with 36.
For the Rockets, Asik played just 4 minutes off the bench, Harden missed the game.

Grizzlies drop to 3-5, be interesting if and when they shake things up.
Nets drop to 2-5 ...

Jazz win their first game.

Andrea Bargnani had 11 rebounds !!!

[Chief Rum]

Heh... Surprised you mention all that, whomario, but don't mention probably the biggest game of the night, Thunder versus Clippers.

Good win for the Clips. Admittedly OKC was missing a couple bigs, but a good win nonetheless. Last year, OKC swept the Clips.

[nol]

Just got back a while ago from Clippers-Nuggets. Matt Barnes definitely showed why they pay him the big mid-level dollars since Ibaka was starting to get into a groove in the 2nd quarter. I don't know what the commentators were saying about that scuffle, but it seemed pretty weak for either guy to be ejected.

The Harden trade is kind of ironic since if you had told a GM 2-3 years ago that the Thunder would end up with Jeremy Lamb and Steven Adams (and Perry Jones, who they didn't acquire through that trade), they'd be likely to do it since each of those guys were projected top-3 picks at one time or another. It goes to show that this draft will probably be the exception that proves the rule where most of the players getting preseason hype will perform well enough to end up as the top picks in June.

[whomario]

Heh... Surprised you mention all that, whomario, but don't mention probably the biggest game of the night, Thunder versus Clippers.

Good win for the Clips. Admittedly OKC was missing a couple bigs, but a good win nonetheless. Last year, OKC swept the Clips.

game wasn´t yet finished when i posted and then i had to leave the house. No offense intended ;)

Thunder are off to a weird start. Just look at their +- ratings on nba.com. Every starter is a net negative (as well as Adams and Fisher), while Collison is a +8, Jackson +9, Lamb + 11 and jones a +14 (all per 100 possessions).

[jbergey22]

Just got back a while ago from Clippers-Nuggets. Matt Barnes definitely showed why they pay him the big mid-level dollars since Ibaka was starting to get into a groove in the 2nd quarter. I don't know what the commentators were saying about that scuffle, but it seemed pretty weak for either guy to be ejected.

The Harden trade is kind of ironic since if you had told a GM 2-3 years ago that the Thunder would end up with Jeremy Lamb and Steven Adams (and Perry Jones, who they didn't acquire through that trade), they'd be likely to do it since each of those guys were projected top-3 picks at one time or another. It goes to show that this draft will probably be the exception that proves the rule where most of the players getting preseason hype will perform well enough to end up as the top picks in June.

I liked Harden as a player on the Thunder much more as well. Now he is basically a black hole and when he is off he isnt a huge fan of deferring to others. I think he has the ball far too much for the offensive talent on that team. Sometimes the offense needs to flow through Dwight.

[Logan]

Stout defense from Bargs.

http://s3.amazonaws.com/br-cdn/temp_images/2013/11/11/original.gif

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/196c1bbetb5yhgif/ku-xlarge.gif

[jbergey22]

Wow! How you can play basketball your entire life and look so clueless is an impressive accomplishment.

[Logan]

JR Smith's reaction (JR Smith!) is the best.

[Desnudo]

Wow! How you can play basketball your entire life and look so clueless is an impressive accomplishment.

I love the complete hopeless exasperation from his teammate.

[Chief Rum]

game wasn´t yet finished when i posted and then i had to leave the house. No offense intended ;)

Thunder are off to a weird start. Just look at their +- ratings on nba.com. Every starter is a net negative (as well as Adams and Fisher), while Collison is a +8, Jackson +9, Lamb + 11 and jones a +14 (all per 100 possessions).


Haha no offense implied. It just seemed funny for you to not comment on that one. :)

It has been a weird start for the Thunder, I agree. I think Westbrook being out the whole preseason threw them off because his presence on the floor, especially as the guy bringing the ball up, is such an impact.


Just got back a while ago from Clippers-Nuggets. Matt Barnes definitely showed why they pay him the big mid-level dollars since Ibaka was starting to get into a groove in the 2nd quarter. I don't know what the commentators were saying about that scuffle, but it seemed pretty weak for either guy to be ejected.


Barnes is huge for the Clips in the locker room and in providing toughness that some of the guys on the team have lacked it in the past. Obviously, getting Ibaka out of there is a trade off the Clips will take every time for losing Barnes.

Disappointed to see Barnes' tweet after the scuffle. I guess he felt the team didn't step up to support him? I am not sure what he saw that led him to put that out there. Griffin was going after Ibaka too and got a technical, so not sure if Barnes was upset that no one literally grabbed Ibaka and threw him to the hardwood? Weird. But then Barnes is kinda like that.

[whomario]

http://i.minus.com/irw6E45nIWp88.gif

http://i.minus.com/ib1qK8XdF8ke5m.gif

:)

The early-offense Postup by Pek and especially Love is a terrific weapon with a guy like Rubio to suply the entry pass. All they have to do is go straight to the basket and just like magic the ball arrives at just the perfect moment. Beautiful to watch.

[Neon_Chaos]

Iggy goes Boom!

[Vince, Pt. II]

Wow. What a finish.

[korme]

I could watch Ricky Rubio dimes all day. It's like hoops porn.

[larrymcg421]

Who knew that the Celtics might get a better draft pick from the Nets than they get on their own?

[Sublime 2]

Who knew that the Celtics might get a better draft pick from the Nets than they get on their own?

Was going to post this the other day but didn't want to jinx it lol.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Steph Curry gets a head injury. Next game: Steph Curry Bobblehead night.

Hopefully the injury isn't serious.

[Chief Rum]

Disappointed that the Clips lost to the Grizzlies at home. That's a game they need to be winning.

[molson]

Rondo reacts to looking at stat sheet during HOU game - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5NgXnA5nm8)

[Groundhog]

I could watch Ricky Rubio dimes all day. It's like hoops porn.

I don't know what I enjoy more, Rubio's dimes or Love's 3/4 court pin-point accurate chest passes.

[jbergey22]

This Brooklyn team is quite entertaining. They have this plan in place to limit the starters minutes to save them for the playoffs. I guess at this point the playoffs are far from a lock and they better think about changing gameplans. I believe KG has had about enough of this team and the 24 minutes per night he is playing.

I think Boston picked the perfect time to unload Pierce and KG. These guys seem to have very little left in the tank.

[RainMaker]

Looks like Derrick Rose tore his ACL in the other knee tonight. I don't even know what to say. Couple years ago the Bulls were looking like a team that would contend for the next 5+ years. Now they're in salary cap hell for the next few years with a team that won't be bad enough to tank.

[Shkspr]

Now I wanna pitch a sitcom to CBS where Rose, Oden, and RGIII all wind up sharing an apartment as they rehab. Nick Johnson plays the wacky landlord. Working title: Two and a Half Functional Knees.

[jbergey22]

Looks like Derrick Rose tore his ACL in the other knee tonight. I don't even know what to say. Couple years ago the Bulls were looking like a team that would contend for the next 5+ years. Now they're in salary cap hell for the next few years with a team that won't be bad enough to tank.

Well this is just awful. An extremely promising career being questionable at this point because of knees. He is going to be so rusty when he recovers from this one that he will need a year just to shake the rust.

[miami_fan]

Man I hope it is not an ACL.

[whomario]

Marc Gasol also with what is reported to possibly be a torn MCL ... And Igoudala with what appears to be a major harmstring injury.

On the plus side, the Wolves with an important win over the mess that is the Nets.

And Spencer Hawes continues to play really, really well (17/10/3 with 1.5 blocks and 2 made 3s at a 49% clip) and hit possibly the best clutch shot of the season. The difficulty (catching it with 1 hand, turning and hsooting of 1 foot), the effortlesness of the motion, the reaction. It´s all perfect.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FG3R7DNuHLc/UpATl9zl0tI/AAAAAAAAAN0/zMItQHtUS20/s1600/spence2.gif


on another note: Aside from the Jazz, every West team might possibly make the playoffs in the East. The battle for the last few spots in the West will be brutal.

[sterlingice]

whomario- I don't always keep up well on the NBA except for the Rockets so please don't ever stop posting in this thread. :) I love the little tidbits you post that I never see

SI

[Eaglesfan27]

whomario- I don't always keep up well on the NBA except for the Rockets so please don't ever stop posting in this thread. :) I love the little tidbits you post that I never see

SI

Plus 1. I really enjoy your posts.

[Arles]

Same from me - I enjoy his posts as well.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Me four.

[Izulde]

Me five.

[nol]

on another note: Aside from the Jazz, every West team might possibly make the playoffs in the East. The battle for the last few spots in the West will be brutal.

Over the last ten seasons, the West's 8 seed has averaged 46 wins compared to the East's 39.

[bulletsponge]

me six, cause theres no way i could watch nba basketball

[mckerney]

Looks like Derrick Rose tore his ACL in the other knee tonight. I don't even know what to say. Couple years ago the Bulls were looking like a team that would contend for the next 5+ years. Now they're in salary cap hell for the next few years with a team that won't be bad enough to tank.

So The Onion was pretty much right on this one?

Unnerving Adidas Commercial Just Features Derrick Rose Sitting | The Onion - America's Finest News Source (http://www.theonion.com/articles/unnerving-adidas-commercial-just-features-derrick,34257/)

Viewers noted that at one point the 25-year-old star seems to grimace slightly, and confirmed that the commercial ends with an extreme close-up on Rose, who closes his eyes just before a cut to a black screen displaying a white Adidas logo and the text “#drose2015.”

[miami_fan]

Derrick Rose of Chicago Bulls out indefinitely, needs surgery on torn medial meniscus in knee - ESPN Chicago (http://espn.go.com/chicago/nba/story/_/id/10025640/derrick-rose-chicago-bulls-indefinitely-needs-surgery-torn-medial-meniscus-knee)

Torn Meniscus. Out indefinitely

[RainMaker]

Weird to be happy over a meniscus tear, but I was certain it would be an ACL. Hopefully he's able to come back at some point this season.

[Desnudo]

The Celtics are perfectly cromulent this year.

[DaddyTorgo]

They need to stop fucking winning. GRRRR

[Desnudo]

They aren't actually winning that much - just the rest of the east is terrible.

[DaddyTorgo]

Every win works against them though. I was pulling for 0-82

[Desnudo]

Between them and the nets it looks like something will pan out

[Groundhog]

Suns/Sixers/Celtics could be the first time in history that a coach gets fired for winning too many games.

[JPhillips]

Between them and the nets it looks like something will pan out

Don't the Hawks have the right to swap with NJ before the Celts get the pick?

[Desnudo]

Say what?

[Blackadar]

Don't the Hawks have the right to swap with NJ before the Celts get the pick?

Yes, Atlanta owns the better (higher) of the two picks.

[Izulde]

Man, I love Jordan Hill's hustle, and when Xavier Henry gets hot, he's fun as hell to watch.

[miami_fan]

Derrick Rose of Chicago Bulls out indefinitely, needs surgery on torn medial meniscus in knee - ESPN Chicago (http://espn.go.com/chicago/nba/story/_/id/10025640/derrick-rose-chicago-bulls-indefinitely-needs-surgery-torn-medial-meniscus-knee)

Torn Meniscus. Out indefinitely

Derrick Rose of Chicago Bulls out for season after knee surgery - ESPN Chicago (http://espn.go.com/chicago/nba/story/_/id/10034512/derrick-rose-chicago-bulls-season-knee-surgery)

And the surgery ends his season. Damn

[Vince, Pt. II]

The Warriors have arguably the most talented starting five in the entire league...but lord the bench is thin. Here's hoping they can use their trade exceptions to fix the glaring holes there.

[Logan]

Kobe signed a two year extension.

[molson]

Derrick Rose of Chicago Bulls out for season after knee surgery - ESPN Chicago (http://espn.go.com/chicago/nba/story/_/id/10034512/derrick-rose-chicago-bulls-season-knee-surgery)

And the surgery ends his season. Damn

At least they're not publicly holding out hope that he returns at some point this season, you know, so we don't have that whole thing again.

[DaddyTorgo]

Kobe signed a two year extension.

Max money?

LOL

[MrBug708]

2 years 48 million. Small paycut but not small enough IMO

[Izulde]

Kobe signed a two year extension.

Fuck Kobe's greedy ass and damn the Lakers' management for being so stupid. Yeah $23.5/$25 is less than what he's making now, but it's still screwing the team over and not providing any flexibility to you know, actually put together more talent around him?

[Desnudo]

Yes, Atlanta owns the better (higher) of the two picks.

Sheeeeeeeit

[Groundhog]

I wonder what Rose's mental state is like right now. Feel really bad for the guy.

[Neon_Chaos]

Fuck Kobe's greedy ass and damn the Lakers' management for being so stupid. Yeah $23.5/$25 is less than what he's making now, but it's still screwing the team over and not providing any flexibility to you know, actually put together more talent around him?

I think we all knew that Kobe would not take a huge enough paycut similar to what Duncan took in San antonio.

It's a dumb move capwise, but FA's were not going to flock to LA next year anyway. Kobe wont take a bakseat to anyone, and despite taking a 33% paycut, he will be the highest paid player in the NBA for the next two years.

The Lakers are going to ride out the Kobe era and bank on his marketability to sell tickets and try to win with whatever they have left to surround him with with the remaining 60% of their capspace.

Realisically, their window for a title got really really small off of this contract extension. But it really couldn't have been any bigger.

[nol]

Fuck Kobe's greedy ass and damn the Lakers' management for being so stupid. Yeah $23.5/$25 is less than what he's making now, but it's still screwing the team over and not providing any flexibility to you know, actually put together more talent around him?

As a wise man on Twitter said back in July, "When you're thinking about things like, 'will Kobe take less to help his team?' remember 'Kobe sued his own mom'"

[Neon_Chaos]

Knowing that Amar'e is going to be paid < 0.1 million dollars thank kobe next year makes mamba's contract look more palatable.

;)

[MikeVic]

It's a dumb move capwise, but FA's were not going to flock to LA next year anyway.


What! Maybe I'm really out of the loop, but I thought the Lakers had like one or two contracts guaranteed past this year (maybe it was next year?), Nash being one of them... and the discussion being that they can start from scratch and lure in FAs since it's still the frickin' Lakers and they're in L.A... But now this contract kinda means they're stuck with Kobe.

I've grown to like Kobe as a competitor over the years and I understand the point of view that this will at least sell tickets for two years... but really, if the team is losing and Kobe is a shell of his former self... is that really true in a market like L.A.?

[MrBug708]

I think a problem with Kobe resigning is that we picked D'Antoni over Jackson, when Kobe is a better fit with Phil, not D'Antoni

[Desnudo]

What! Maybe I'm really out of the loop, but I thought the Lakers had like one or two contracts guaranteed past this year (maybe it was next year?), Nash being one of them... and the discussion being that they can start from scratch and lure in FAs since it's still the frickin' Lakers and they're in L.A... But now this contract kinda means they're stuck with Kobe.

I've grown to like Kobe as a competitor over the years and I understand the point of view that this will at least sell tickets for two years... but really, if the team is losing and Kobe is a shell of his former self... is that really true in a market like L.A.?

If the Lakers lose or are mediocre, Kobe alone won't be enough to keep attendance up. LA is the definition of a fair weather market (not specific to the Lakers).

[nol]

If the Lakers lose or are mediocre, Kobe alone won't be enough to keep attendance up. LA is the definition of a fair weather market (not specific to the Lakers).

I think you underestimate how crazy people are about Kobe, and now that this contract seems to put a set date on when he'll retire, how many people will want to make sure they saw him in person at least once. Not to mention the desire to watch Kobe pass Jordan and whomever else on the all-time scoring list.

[Desnudo]

I think you underestimate how crazy people are about Kobe, and now that this contract seems to put a set date on when he'll retire, how many people will want to make sure they saw him in person at least once. Not to mention the desire to watch Kobe pass Jordan and whomever else on the all-time scoring list.

I'll take that fake internet bet

[Neon_Chaos]

The Lakers' biggest selling point used to be an owner with the class and balls to lure top flight Free agents. He's gone now.

I honestly dont see any star free agent who would have signed on to play with Kobe next year, let alone two. Carmelo? He's likely staying in NY.

Kevin love, possibly in 2015? But that's a long shot as well.

People don't flock to Lakers away games to watch the Lakers. Kobe is the marquee attraction.

Again, should he have taken less? If he really wanted to win over cementing his ego, yes. But I think it's just vintage Kobe. He will always want to win on his terms and noone elses.

[RainMaker]

I don't know why he should be criticized for taking the most he can get. Silly to expect athletes to give up millions to help billionaires make more.

[nol]

I'll take that fake internet bet

OK, me too :D This says that the Lakers have been 7th-10th in home attendance and 1st-2nd in road attendance each of the past 10+ years: 2013-2014 NBA Attendance - National Basketball Association - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nba/attendance). Even if they're significantly worse than they were during the Smush Parker/Chris Mimh years, people are going to be drawn to the Kobe farewell tour.

I found a neat graphic comparing usage and efficiency for some of the most-used players so far this season. It really drives home the kind of year LeBron is having so far and how routine his dominance has become.

[jbergey22]

I get a kick out of Russell Westbrook on that chart. Its like he doesnt realize he is playing on the same team as the 2nd best player in the league.

[Desnudo]

Daddy Torgo's worst fear about to be realized

Brooks on Rondo: 'I think he's almost there' - Boston Celtics Blog - ESPN Boston (http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/celtics/post/_/id/4708674/brooks-on-rondo-i-think-hes-almost-there)

[Logan]

I don't know why he should be criticized for taking the most he can get. Silly to expect athletes to give up millions to help billionaires make more.

I don't think anyone is making that point. But in a capped league, him taking up that percentage of the available money certainly doesn't help.

[RainMaker]

Daddy Torgo's worst fear about to be realized

Brooks on Rondo: 'I think he's almost there' - Boston Celtics Blog - ESPN Boston (http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/celtics/post/_/id/4708674/brooks-on-rondo-i-think-hes-almost-there)

I think Boston could make the playoffs. That coach is good and Rondo will give them a huge boost. Plus the East is so bad.

[DaddyTorgo]

Daddy Torgo's worst fear about to be realized

Brooks on Rondo: 'I think he's almost there' - Boston Celtics Blog - ESPN Boston (http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/celtics/post/_/id/4708674/brooks-on-rondo-i-think-hes-almost-there)

FML

[jbergey22]

I think Boston could make the playoffs. That coach is good and Rondo will give them a huge boost. Plus the East is so bad.

It would be shocking. Rondo coming back really doesnt solve the big problem which is no go to scorer. Sullinger looks like he could be a very good player but other than him who can you count on from game to game with the Celtics?

Green looks lost this year, Bass in one dimensional, Crawford is streaky, Bradley can play defense but should run away from the ball on offense.

[jbergey22]

I don't think anyone is making that point. But in a capped league, him taking up that percentage of the available money certainly doesn't help.

The league being capped like it is should fall on the players and their union. Lebron James in an uncapped market would be worth more than double what he is paid now. If I were Kobe Id be in the same boat. I was underpaid because of this cap all of these years so if you want me to hang around you pay me.

Im just speaking in terms of actual business here and not really feeling sorry for Kobe for only being able to make 15-20 million per year his entire career.

[Logan]

The league being capped like it is should fall on the players and their union. Lebron James in an uncapped market would be worth more than double what he is paid now. If I were Kobe Id be in the same boat. I was underpaid because of this cap all of these years so if you want me to hang around you pay me.

Im just speaking in terms of actual business here and not really feeling sorry for Kobe for only being able to make 15-20 million per year his entire career.

Agreed. I don't fault him either, earn every dollar you can. But I'm willing to wager that a year or two from now, when Kobe is trying his hardest to get one more ring, he'll end up bitching at some point about the quality of his teammates and their inability to contend. And that's when this argument should really matter.

If his goal is to play the two more seasons, score as much as he can to chase records, title shots be damned, yeah he should have taken every dollar he could on this deal.

He wouldn't be leaving money on the table that will end up in the owners' pockets (as RainMaker suggested); he'd be taking money away from other guys on the roster. I believe the only way it would have done what RM suggested was if the Lakers were already up to or over the cap in those years, and exceeding it to sign your own guys is allowed.

[lungs]

I'm a bit puzzled at the Bucks. Management acted like they put together a playoff team this year (reaching for that 8 seed again!) yet they seem to be doing the best job of tanking outside of Utah.

Unintentional tanking or did they plan this all along? Given the past few years, I believe they actually thought they had a playoff team.

[Desnudo]

It would be shocking. Rondo coming back really doesnt solve the big problem which is no go to scorer. Sullinger looks like he could be a very good player but other than him who can you count on from game to game with the Celtics?

Green looks lost this year, Bass in one dimensional, Crawford is streaky, Bradley can play defense but should run away from the ball on offense.

It would be shocking in the west. In the east you could flip the question around and ask who the definite 3-8 seeds are that would make them a shock. They just beat the current "3" seed without Rondo on the road. Not saying they're anything special but the east is wide open and they've got a top point guard plus a better than average coach.

[larrymcg421]

The Celtics are in playoff contention right now without Rondo. I'd say it'd be shocking if they don't make the playoffs with him.

And I suspect Rondo himself would be the go to scorer on many occasions.

[jbergey22]

1. Heat
2. Pacers
3. Bulls
4. Pistons
5. Hawks
6. Raptors
7. Wizards
8. Knicks
9. Nets
10. Cavs
11. 76ers
12. Magic
13. Celtics
14. Hornets
15. Bucks

On talent level I guess that is how I would rank them. A lot of the teams that have surpassed them in talent arent really known as quality teams(Raptors and Wizards) so it probably is shocking to think they will end up on the outside looking in. Maybe even Charlotte has more talent them with Kemba and Jefferson. MKG would need to come around on offense Id think for them to have a realstic shot at the playoffs.

[jbergey22]

And I suspect Rondo himself would be the go to scorer on many occasions.

He does a lot of things well and is a perfect point guard for a talented team but I dont think being a go to scorer is his thing. The more attention he gets the more his offensive warts would start to show up(not being a good shooter or free throw shooter).

[BishopMVP]

1. Heat
2. Pacers
3. Bulls
4. Pistons
5. Hawks
6. Raptors
7. Wizards
8. Knicks
9. Nets
10. Cavs
11. 76ers
12. Magic
13. Celtics
14. Hornets
15. BucksYou're out of your mind :p . The Bulls 3rd most talented, the Nets all the way down at 9? The 76ers - a team whose own coach claimed he had maybe 7 NBA players - ahead of the Celtics? Everyone wants to tank because this is such a superstar-laden draft with at least 3 guys who look like sure thing franchise cornerstones, but almost everyone on that roster is a potential rotation player on a contending team.

[jbergey22]

You're out of your mind :p . The Bulls 3rd most talented, the Nets all the way down at 9? The 76ers - a team whose own coach claimed he had maybe 7 NBA players - ahead of the Celtics? Everyone wants to tank because this is such a superstar-laden draft with at least 3 guys who look like sure thing franchise cornerstones, but almost everyone on that roster is a potential rotation player on a contending team.

Well I tried to base my rankings on current form and not how they were 15 years ago such as the case with the Nets. Paul Pierce is really ineffective at this point in his career and KG can basically play 20 minutes a night. Williams and Lopez have a hard time staying healthy while Johnson isnt the same player anymore. As for the 76ers, they have 4 guys in their starting lineup that would start for the Celtics in Turner, Young, MCW, and Hawes so yeah I will stick with that. Depth may be an issue but who are these great bench players the Celtics have? Pressey? That foreign center that launches turn around 3 pointers, Gerald Wallace?

I apparently am missing something in the Celtics because I dont see anything other than Sullinger and Rondo to get even somewhat excited about.

As for the Bulls they finished 5th in the conference w/o Rose last year with the Nets and Knicks being ahead of them. Unless someone else can actually prove to be better than them THIS year I dont see the real issue in that. Hinrich, Butler, Deng, Boozer and Noah make a decent enough starting lineup especially when some teams are throwing a lineup of J Crawford, Bradley, J Green, Bass, and Sullinger out there right now;)

[Neuqua]

Last year the Bulls were built to play without Rose. With Nate Robinson and Marco Belinelli gone, they don't have anyone to create anymore. The last game against the Jazz was one of the worst examples of a basketball I've ever seen from both sides.

This year will be interesting to see what happens. I think GarPax may make a move sooner rather than later only because given an average roster, Thibs will have them overperforming. If GarPax are convinced they need a higher draft pick, they need to put Jimmy Butler on the Derrick Rose recovery plan for his turf toe and move Deng/Hinrich.

[BishopMVP]

Well I tried to base my rankings on current form and not how they were 15 years ago such as the case with the Nets. Paul Pierce is really ineffective at this point in his career and KG can basically play 20 minutes a night. Williams and Lopez have a hard time staying healthy while Johnson isnt the same player anymore. As for the 76ers, they have 4 guys in their starting lineup that would start for the Celtics in Turner, Young, MCW, and Hawes so yeah I will stick with that. Depth may be an issue but who are these great bench players the Celtics have? Pressey? That foreign center that launches turn around 3 pointers, Gerald Wallace?

I apparently am missing something in the Celtics because I dont see anything other than Sullinger and Rondo to get even somewhat excited about.

As for the Bulls they finished 5th in the conference w/o Rose last year with the Nets and Knicks being ahead of them. Unless someone else can actually prove to be better than them THIS year I dont see the real issue in that. Hinrich, Butler, Deng, Boozer and Noah make a decent enough starting lineup especially when some teams are throwing a lineup of J Crawford, Bradley, J Green, Bass, and Sullinger out there right now;)Pierce is ineffective because the current lineup around him has some of the worst spacing I've ever seen (and as happy I am that Shaun Livingston is healthy for once, he's a huge part of the problem there). KG can play more than 20 minutes (not sure he can for a whole season), and yeah Williams and Lopez have had minor injuries but I'm still counting them (and Jimmy Butler, but not Derrick Rose.) I'm not even arguing that the Nets are a better team - they're not - but that's because of coaching and fit rather than pure talent. Give the Nets Thibs (or even Stevens/Brown) and they'd run away with the Atlantic.

And as dumb as it is to argue over whether we're 11th or 13th most talented... MCW would not start over Rondo (I assumed these rankings were for after Rondo comes back... if you're not counting him then yeah we drop like 3 spots, although I'd still think Philly is too high) and Thaddeus Young vs. Jeff Green is a toss-up (or vs. Sullinger if you really think he's a 4). So the 76ers have the advantage at 2 starting spots (Evan Turner at SG or SF, C), the Celtics at 2 (PG, SG if its vs. Anderson, PF if its Orton/Allen), with Thaddeus Young a toss-up at SF or PF, and the Celtics having the advantage at literally every bench spot. That doesn't mean I think it's great, but I would absolutely take Olynyk, Faverani, Crawford, Wallace/Lee - ignoring their contracts - and even Humphries and Pressey (ok, I'll give you Tony Wroten over him) over the 76ers bench. Have you looked at that thing? Past Wroten, it's Allen, Orton, Darius Morris, Hollis Thompson and Brandon Davies. That's a borderline top 10 college team who wouldn't even be a favorite to win March Madness.

[Desnudo]

You don't factor coach quality into your rankings either. The Raptors coach couldn't coach on the coachingest day of his life if he had an electrified coaching machine. And he's probably better than Jason Kidd

[nol]

I think Jason Kidd's drink spilling is going to be one of those immortal "not top ten" moments. Still can't believe that actually happened.

[Desnudo]

I'll offer you another bet on over/under days before Jason Kidd disappears in a mysterious Black Sea yachting accident.

[Izulde]

I think Jason Kidd's drink spilling is going to be one of those immortal "not top ten" moments. Still can't believe that actually happened.

Yeah it was so obvious, especially when he told Tyshawn Taylor to bump him so that he could accidentally-on-purpose spill the drink.

Can't believe we blew the 27 point lead though. That was a rather fortunate win to grind out.

[jbergey22]

You don't factor coach quality into your rankings either. The Raptors coach couldn't coach on the coachingest day of his life if he had an electrified coaching machine. And he's probably better than Jason Kidd

True! Jason Kidd is something else. Benched his starters tonight at the half. I am still wondering what the purpose of limiting minutes is when with what they are currently doing they wont make the playoffs. Playing KG and Pierce every night 32+ minutes might be the only option of even sniffing the playoffs.

[Izulde]

Andre Drummond's running ability is just ridiculous.

Surprised we pulled off the comeback win, but these guys just don't quit in the games I've managed to watch. I wanted to punch Farmar in the dick though for that stupid fouling of Jennings on the 3 point play at the end, then missing both free throws on the other hand that would have secured it.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Russell Westbrook got back at the Warriors tonight with a ridiculous three to end the game. When these two teams play, it's fun to watch.

[whomario]

The Pacers defense is pretty awesome, almost unfair to even ask most eastern teams to play them ... Wizzards not only scored just 73 points, but also zero fastbreak points.

And how the hell did Lance Stephenson make himself into a viable two-way starter ? And this 8 TO performance ignored, he´s turned into a reliable ball handler and distributer even. Still has plenty of flash/crazy though:

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r_Qrf5HxpC8/UpldO1QOlWI/AAAAAAAA8nA/mGlPrYZzUFk/s1600/101.gif


the West is 54-21 against the East btw.

[Desnudo]

54-15 (78%) against everyone besides Indiana and Miami

[ColtCrazy]

I miss Brad Stephens at Butler. Give him some talent and he will win at Boston. I'm definitely rooting for him to do well.

As for the East, I think Miami and Indiana can probably print their Eastern Conference Finals tickets.

[BishopMVP]

I miss Brad Stephens at Butler. Give him some talent and he will win at Boston. I'm definitely rooting for him to do well.I love the move long-term, but shit... if there was ever a year to tank, this is it. There are 3 borderline-certain future All-NBA players (Parker/Wiggins/Randle) plus Exum/Gordon/Young.

[whomario]

The Greek Freak:

http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3656411/GiannisOMGdunk.gif

[Groundhog]

I think that Heat series did wonders for both George and Stephenson. I'm still nervous whenever Stephenson has the ball in his hands, but more often than not he does something positive with it.

[DaddyTorgo]

I love the move long-term, but shit... if there was ever a year to tank, this is it. There are 3 borderline-certain future All-NBA players (Parker/Wiggins/Randle) plus Exum/Gordon/Young.

Yeah

[jbergey22]

And Marcus Smart... The guy with the highest floor of them all.

[BishopMVP]

And Marcus Smart... The guy with the highest floor of them all.Maybe I'm watching the wrong games - and I know from personal experience Travis Ford isn't exactly a gameday savant - but I don't really see it with him. I like his personality (clearly cares about winning and came back for another year), and maybe he'll develop along the Paul George path and completely prove me wrong, but he's not someone I see being a future Max guy.

[jbergey22]

Maybe I'm watching the wrong games - and I know from personal experience Travis Ford isn't exactly a gameday savant - but I don't really see it with him. I like his personality (clearly cares about winning and came back for another year), and maybe he'll develop along the Paul George path and completely prove me wrong, but he's not someone I see being a future Max guy.

Ya, hard to predict at this point. My comparison I guess would be a less athletic better shooting Grant Hill as a younger player.

[nol]

Less explosive, more defensive-minded Wade.

Also hope Anthony Davis gets back soon. I figured he was headed for a big year after seeing all the moves the Pelicans made this offseason. He's been one of the most fun players to watch so far. For someone whose potential was supposed to be on the defensive end, he's able to get 20 points without having really any plays called for him (and it seems like he should be getting 4-6 more for all the times his teammates miss him in transition) while showing some really nice passing and midrange skills.

[Groundhog]

I'm pretty excited to see how Exum does. Future of Aussie basketball looking good, especially in the backcourt.

[sterlingice]

Ok, seriously? Am I reading this right?

As of this morning, 2 teams in the East have winning records with Indiana (16-1) and Miami (14-3). Meanwhile, only 3 teams in the West have losing records with 9-10 Minnesota, 4-11 Sacramento, and 3-15 Utah.

SI

[BishopMVP]

Ok, seriously? Am I reading this right?

As of this morning, 2 teams in the East have winning records with Indiana (16-1) and Miami (14-3). Meanwhile, only 3 teams in the West have losing records with 9-10 Minnesota, 4-11 Sacramento, and 3-15 Utah.

SIYeah, it's gone beyond embarrassing to just being parody at this point. The Knicks were under .500 at 3-4, have lost 9 straight games, and they're 3 games out of the playoffs. The Raptors were under .500 at 6-7, have lost 3 straight, and are currently "winning" the Atlantic and the 4 seed less than a game ahead of the actively tanking Celtics and 76ers. If we don't start trading veterans or delaying rondo's return we're not gonna mess up and get a late lottery pick, we're going to get the 3 seed and the 19th pick (while still finishing under .500 at 40-42).

[albionmoonlight]

Is there any reason for the East/West split? Not just "the teams in the West are better." But something that would explain the split on a more fundamental level. Or is it just one of those things that's happened? I can't think of a larger structural force driving it, but, as a human, I am looking for a pattern.

[DaddyTorgo]

Yeah, it's gone beyond embarrassing to just being parody at this point. The Knicks were under .500 at 3-4, have lost 9 straight games, and they're 3 games out of the playoffs. The Raptors were under .500 at 6-7, have lost 3 straight, and are currently "winning" the Atlantic and the 4 seed less than a game ahead of the actively tanking Celtics and 76ers. If we don't start trading veterans or delaying rondo's return we're not gonna mess up and get a late lottery pick, we're going to get the 3 seed and the 19th pick (while still finishing under .500 at 40-42).

Yup!

[nol]

Is there any reason for the East/West split? Not just "the teams in the West are better." But something that would explain the split on a more fundamental level. Or is it just one of those things that's happened? I can't think of a larger structural force driving it, but, as a human, I am looking for a pattern.

Probably one reason is that teams in the West have been better run as of late. It seems like half the coaches/GMs in the league now are from San Antonio, Houston, and OKC. I also think that the weather plays a significant role. Of all the typical big free agent destinations that get discussed, New York (now Brooklyn, too) and Chicago are the only ones that get any snow, and the Bulls' reputation is greatly exaggerated considering how many big names they've whiffed on post-Jordan.

All things being equal, people are going to want to be where it's warm. I'm having a hard time even thinking of that many big names who have gone from the West to the East the past ten or so years - Bynum, Deron Williams, Carmelo, and Arenas are the main ones I remember (Edit: doh, Allen and KG to Boston too. Kind of the exception that proves the rule that most of the well-run teams have been in the West). That's two guys who wanted to go to New York, one major injury gamble who was part of a trade that moved both Dwight Howard and Iguodala from the East to the West, and Arenas, who allegedly chose Washington on a coin flip. The fact that three of the four were wrecked by injuries also speaks to the fact that there's luck involved, just as there's luck in getting a top pick in a Tim Duncan/Kevin Durant year as opposed to a Kwame Brown/Anthony Bennett year.

Last but not least, you have the general population and economic trends that have had people moving south and west from the Rust Belt cities. I'm sure that 20-30 years ago, places like Detroit, Cleveland and Philadelphia were perceived as much more "happening" than Houston, Dallas and Phoenix, which probably isn't the case now.

[miami_fan]

Is there any reason for the East/West split? Not just "the teams in the West are better." But something that would explain the split on a more fundamental level. Or is it just one of those things that's happened? I can't think of a larger structural force driving it, but, as a human, I am looking for a pattern.

While acknowledging that luck plays a role, I think you can boil it down to bad front office management. When I say bad management, I mean most of the teams in the East seem to lack a plan on how they are going to build a roster. The Pacers' management team in the exception in the East while I think that type of front office leadership is the norm in the West.

[jbergey22]

While acknowledging that luck plays a role, I think you can boil it down to bad front office management. When I say bad management, I mean most of the teams in the East seem to lack a plan on how they are going to build a roster. The Pacers' management team in the exception in the East while I think that type of front office leadership is the norm in the West.

+1

For the larger part of the past 25 years the West has had more playoff quality teams.

[nol]

While acknowledging that luck plays a role, I think you can boil it down to bad front office management. When I say bad management, I mean most of the teams in the East seem to lack a plan on how they are going to build a roster. The Pacers' management team in the exception in the East while I think that type of front office leadership is the norm in the West.

But then you have the Clippers, who have always been one of the worst-run franchises in pro sports. I don't think they'd be a playoff team without Chris Paul, and they lucked into him on several levels (Lakers veto, getting no. 1 pick Griffin's year, even having Griffin injured his rookie season got them another young player for the Paul package).

Putting aside the luck involved in getting CP3, location plays a huge part in it as well. I don't think Paul is as quick to re-up if the past couple years had played out in Milwaukee or Toronto rather than Los Angeles, especially considering how ubiquitous Paul is in national commercials.

[Neon_Chaos]

Bad time to be a New York fan? The Nets and Knicks? They are a combined 8-25 for November/Early Dec.

The Wizards (9 wins) and Bobcats (8 wins) have more wins.

[Groundhog]

As bad as the East is and has been, both the Knicks and Nets have massively underachieved. I never considered either a true contender, but I also didn’t expect them to be nearly as bad as they have been, and I doubt many others did either. The East also has the two best defensive teams in the league in Miami and Indiana, and the Bulls would have to be right up there too, even if they haven’t quite been as effective as last year.

The East has long been a more defensively orientated conference as most of the individual scoring talent for whatever reason has tended to be in the West. Still, the Pacers and Heat are arguably the top two teams in the league right now, it’s just a very shallow pool right now.

FWIW, I think the Nets and the Knicks are going to turn it around and end up in the playoffs, because I think the hot starts – well, relatively speaking – by some of the expected cellar dwellars are going to cool off and by season’s end things will level out closer to what was expected. Given the poor records of the Eastern teams it doesn’t take much of a run to turn things around.

Nets firing Kidd and Melo/Smith firing made jumpers would be a good start for both teams.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Warriors with an insane comeback tonight against the Raptors. Down by as much as 27 in the third, they outscored Toronto 42-15 in the 4th to win 112-103.