The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

Carter is the #1 Pick at 19 years old standing 6'8 and 238 pounds.

*** **** kid's got a future!

Kid is an absolute animal! Appreciate you checking in.

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

As the leading vote-getters, Milwaukee's Giannis Antetokounmpo and Golden State's Stephen Curry were named the two captains for the 2021 NBA All-Star Game.

Associated Press

2021 NBA All-Star Game Rosters
Team Giannis		Team Stephen
Head Coach: Brad Stevens		Head Coach: Steve Kerr
Pos	Starters	Pos	Starters
F	[C] Giannis Antetokounmpo - Milwaukee Bucks (5 time All-Star)	G	[C] Stephen Curry - Golden State Warriors (7 time All-Star)
G	Trae Young - Atlanta Hawks (2 time All-Star)	F	Kevin Durant - Brooklyn Nets (11 time All-Star)
G	Ben Simmons - Philadelphia 76ers (3 time All-Star)	F	LeBron James - Los Angeles Lakers (17 time All-Star)
F	Kawhi Leonard - Los Angeles Clippers (5 time All-Star)	G	Luka Doncic - Dallas Mavericks (2 time All-Star)
F	Jayson Tatum - Boston Celtics (2 time All-Star)	F	Anthony Davis - Los Angeles Lakers (8 time All-Star)
Pos	Reserves	Pos	Reserves
C	Karl-Anthony Towns - Minnesota Timberwolves (3 time All-Star)	G	James Harden - Houston Rockets (9 time All-Star)
G	Kyrie Irving - Brooklyn Nets (7 time All-Star)	G	Damian Lillard - Portland Trail Blazers (6 time All-Star)
G	Russell Westbrook - Houston Rockets (10 time All-Star)	F	Zion Williamson - New Orleans Pelicans (1 time All-Star)
C	Rudy Gobert - Utah Jazz (2 time All-Star)	G	Zach LaVine - Chicago Bulls (1 time All-Star)
G	John Wall - Washington Wizards (6 time All-Star)	C	Andre Drummond - New York Knicks (3 time All-Star)
C	Joel Embiid - Philadelphia 76ers (4 time All-Star)	F	Pascal Siakam - Toronto Raptors (2 time All-Star)
F	Khris Middleton - Milwaukee Bucks (3 time All-Star)	C	Jonas Valanciunas - Memphis Grizzlies (1 time All-Star)

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

WALL AND BEAL NOT ENOUGH; KNICKS WIN
Feb. 2, 2021 - Madison Square Garden, New York, NY




Adonis Carter's triple-double and R.J. Barrett's 26 points more than Wizards can handle.

Washington Wizards at New York Knicks
Feb 2, 2021	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	OT	SCORE
Washington (20-28)	35	23	25	30	-	113
New York (19-28)	38	30	21	33	-	122

Washington Wizards
STARTERS	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
John Wall	36	13-25	2-7	4-6	1	10	0	2	1	32
Bradley Beal	41	12-18	5-8	5-6	5	5	0	0	1	34
Troy Brown Jr	29	3-5	2-4	3-4	6	4	2	1	1	11
Rui Hachimura	29	4-13	1-2	0-0	5	1	0	1	0	9
Thomas Bryant	35	3-5	1-2	3-4	10	0	0	1	3	10
BENCH	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Wendell Moore	16	5-8	2-3	1-2	3	0	1	0	0	13
Davis Bertans	18	1-4	1-4	0-0	2	0	1	0	0	3
Bismack Biyombo	10	0-4	0-0	1-2	7	0	0	0	0	1
Moritz Wagner	10	0-5	0-4	0-0	5	0	0	1	1	0
Ish Smith	13	0-4	0-0	0-0	1	5	0	0	0	0
TEAM TOTALS		41-92	14-35	17-24	47	25	4	6	7	113

New York Knicks
STARTERS	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Elfrid Payton	28	3-7	2-4	0-0	3	6	1	1	4	8
R.J. Barrett	40	8-17	4-10	6-8	6	1	0	2	0	26
Adonis Carter	32	9-21	2-6	8-8	10	10	0	0	1	28
Markieff Morris	31	6-10	1-3	1-2	3	1	0	0	0	14
Andre Drummond	36	4-10	0-0	2-4	19	2	1	1	3	10
BENCH	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Kelly Oubre Jr	15	4-8	2-4	0-0	4	1	0	0	1	10
Reggie Bullock	11	2-3	2-2	2-2	1	1	0	0	0	8
Mario Hezonja	15	3-4	1-2	0-0	1	1	0	0	0	7
Frank Ntilikina	17	2-4	0-0	2-2	1	2	0	0	0	6
James Wiseman	12	2-5	0-1	1-2	5	2	1	0	0	5
TEAM TOTALS		43-89	14-32	22-28	53	27	3	4	9	122

Simmed Games

Feb. 4, 2021 - Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI

NYK (20-28) | 29 | 29 | 20 | 26 | 104
DET (15-34) | 29 | 18 | 17 | 35 | 99

DET: Nico Mannion: 19 points, 14 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals
NYK: Adonis Carter: 30 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists, 9/13 FG

---

Feb. 5, 2021 - Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland, OH

NYK (20-29) | 16 | 20 | 27 | 41 | 104
CLE (27-23) | 25 | 23 | 26 | 36 | 110

CLE: R.J. Hampton: 20 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 7/13 FG
NYK: Adonis Carter: 47 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 17/26 FG, 11/12 FT

---

Feb. 7, 2021 - Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

MIL (26-26) | 28 | 24 | 29 | 38 | 119
NYK (20-30) | 19 | 30 | 32 | 26 | 107

MIL: Giannis Antetokounmpo: 42 points, 13 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 blocks, 20/29 FG
NYK: R.J. Barrett: 24 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks, 7/23 FG, 4/11 3PT

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

Los Angeles Lakers acquire G Derrick Rose from Pistons


Feb. 10, 2021 | Associated Press

LOS ANGELES, CA - The Los Angeles Lakers have formally announced that they have acquired veteran guard Derrick Rose from the Detroit Pistons in a trade. The Lakers will send 19-year old guard Devon Dotson and guard Avery Bradley in return.

The Detroit Pistons have sunk to the bottom of the basement and are looking to offload some of their veteran players. Forward Blake Griffin was a big name but is out of the foreseeable future with a broken arm.

Rose, a 32-year guard out of the University of Memphis, was the first overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft and had a dynamic entry into the league as a superstar for the Chicago Bulls. Rose was named the league's MVP in 2011, breaking the record for the youngest player to win the award.

Unfortunately, Rose has had his career deterred due to multiple injuries, specifically to his lower body (knees, ankles) that has slowed his once electrifying explosiveness.

Rose has previously played for the Bulls, New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Minnesota Timberwolves, and is currently playing in his final season in his current contract. Rose also notably played with reigning MVP LeBron James when they teamed up on the Cavaliers.

Rose is currently averaging 19 points per game and 5 assists a game while shooting 49% from the field and 29% from three-point range.

Dotson, 19, was the 30th overall pick in this past draft out of NC State, but has barely gotten off the bench. Bradley was a part of the 2020 Lakers championship team, and is averaging 7 points per game on 41% shooting from the field.

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

CARTER HAS KNICKS BOUNCE BACK, SLUMP PACERS
Feb. 10, 2021 - Madison Square Garden, New York, NY




Adonis Carter continues to blossom into a true NBA star, pushing the Knicks past the Pacers.

Indiana Pacers at New York Knicks
Feb 10, 2021	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	OT	SCORE
Indiana (24-27)	17	22	27	28	-	94
New York (21-30)	23	17	37	38	-	115

Indiana Pacers
STARTERS	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Malcolm Brogdon	34	4-15	1-7	2-2	3	4	0	0	1	11
Victor Oladipo	31	6-17	2-5	3-4	2	3	2	0	5	17
T.J. Warren	33	6-9	0-2	3-4	3	2	2	1	3	15
Domantas Sabonis	33	2-9	0-3	7-11	7	5	1	0	0	11
Myles Turner	34	2-5	1-2	5-6	10	3	0	3	2	10
BENCH	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Jeremy Lamb	16	3-7	2-3	2-2	1	1	2	0	2	10
Aaron Holiday	14	4-7	2-2	0-0	0	2	0	0	0	10
T.J. McConnell	10	2-2	0-0	1-2	3	2	0	0	0	5
T.J. Leaf	18	2-4	1-3	0-0	6	1	1	0	0	5
Doug McDermott	13	0-4	0-4	0-0	1	1	0	0	0	0
TEAM TOTALS		31-80	9-31	23-31	38	24	8	4	13	94

New York Knicks
STARTERS	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Elfrid Payton	28	5-8	0-1	1-2	4	6	0	0	1	11
R.J. Barrett	37	7-18	3-9	1-2	7	2	0	2	0	18
Adonis Carter	31	10-20	2-4	5-6	8	10	2	2	4	27
Markieff Morris	34	7-11	2-5	0-1	6	0	1	0	4	16
Andre Drummond	35	5-9	0-0	1-1	20	4	4	1	2	11
BENCH	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Kelly Oubre Jr	14	6-9	2-3	2-2	3	0	0	0	1	16
James Wiseman	15	1-1	0-0	4-5	2	1	0	1	0	6
Frank Ntilikina	19	2-3	2-2	0-0	1	1	0	0	2	6
Mario Hezonja	13	1-5	0-3	0-0	1	1	2	0	0	2
TEAM TOTALS		45-89	11-29	14-19	54	25	9	6	14	115

Simmed Games

Feb. 12, 2021 - Bankers Life Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN

NYK (21-31) | 23 | 26 | 32 | 37 | 118
IND (25-27) | 32 | 20 | 41 | 28 | 121

IND: Myles Turner: 41 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 5 blocks, 15/20 FG
NYK: Adonis Carter: 26 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 11/19 FG, 2/5 3PT

---

Feb. 13, 2021 - Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

PHI (30-21) | 30 | 26 | 31 | 25 | 112
NYK (22-31) | 35 | 29 | 35 | 20 | 119

PHI: Tobias Harris: 25 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 9/21 FG, 1/6 3PT
NYK: Andre Drummond: 20 points, 19 rebounds, 4 blocks, 7/12 FG

---

Feb. 15, 2021 - Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

UTA (22-30) | 27 | 34 | 32 | 28 | 121
NYK (22-32) | 18 | 19 | 34 | 40 | 111

UTA: Donovan Mitchell: 29 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 9/18 FG, 9/10 FT
NYK: Adonis Carter: 36 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 14/26 FG, 5/12 3PT

---

Feb. 17, 2021 - Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA

NYK (23-32) | 45 | 31 | 21 | 27 | 124
PHI (31-22) | 22 | 23 | 32 | 33 | 110

PHI: Ben Simmons: 35 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, 12/18 FG
NYK: Adonis Carter: 24 points, 2 rebounds, 10 assists, 3 steals, 9/16 FG

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

NBA PRE ALL-STAR GAME REVIEW: ATLANTIC
Tatum's ascent into superstardom has the Celtics the team to beat.


Jayson Tatum is on the verge of his second All-Star Game, and is pacing a very good Boston Celtics team.

1. Boston Celtics

Current Record: 42-12, 1st in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: F Gordon Hayward - Fractured Leg (Out For Season), G Jaylen Brown - Knee Tendinitis (Out 2-4 weeks)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: F Jayson Tatum, S Marcus Smart, C Daniel Theis, F Gordon Hayward, G Rajon Rondo

Current Starting Lineup: Kemba Walker - Marcus Smart - Javonte Green - Jayson Tatum - JaVale McGee

Synopsis: Kemba Walker (21.6 PPG, 5.9 APG on 47% from the field and 42% from 3-point) and Jayson Tatum (29.1 PPG, 7.2 RPG on 55% from the field and 46% from 3-point) have been pacing a deep and young Celtics lineup despite recently being ravaged by injuries.

This team has a lot of contracts expiring and could look very different come this off-season. This is their shot.



2. Brooklyn Nets

Current Record: 35-20, 3rd in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: C DeAndre Jordan - Broken Leg (6-8 weeks), G Spencer Dinwiddie - Knee Tendinitis (2-4 weeks)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: C Jarrett Allen, F Joe Harris, G Raul Neto

Current Starting Lineup: Kyrie Irving - Caris LeVert - Kevin Durant - Taurean Prince - Jarrett Allen

Synopsis: The Kevin Durant-Kyrie Irving co-existence hasn't completely backfired but the team isn't running away with the Eastern Conference crown as they were expected to.

Durant (27.1 PPG on 56% shooting from the field and 46% shooting for 3-point, which are some of his best averages of his career) has come back strong from his Achilles injury while Irving (27.9 PPG and 7.4 APG) continues to churn away as one of the best guards in the league.

Losing the likes of Dinwiddie and Jordan hurts, but they'll be back by playoff time where it really matters; the Nets just want to ensure they have home-court advantage when that time comes.



3. Toronto Raptors

Current Record: 33-22, 4th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: None

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Kyle Lowry, F O.G. Anunoby, G Norman Powell, C Serge Ibaka

Projected Starting Lineup: Kyle Lowry - Terence Davis - OG Anunoby - Pascal Siakam - Marc Gasol

Synopsis: The Toronto Raptors continue to be one of the most well-coached, and deepest teams in the league. They got Serge Ibaka back a month into the season with a new contract and are now trying to convince budding star O.G. Anunoby to come back as well.

Pascal Siakam (27 PPG, 8.4 RPG on 48% shooting from the field) continues to strive towards superstardom with an All-Star appearance while the team is wondering if this is Kyle Lowry's final season with the Raptors.

They'll hang tough and continue to push Boston and Brooklyn for the top of the division.



4. Philadelphia 76ers

Current Record: 31-22, 5th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: None

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Josh Richardson, F Furkan Korkmaz, G Shaun Livingston

Current Starting Lineup: Ben Simmons - Matisse Thybulle - Tobias Harris - Al Horford - Joel Embiid

Synopsis: The Philadelphia 76ers have been the model of consistency: they don't have enough to be at the upper echelon of the league, but they're winning their fair share of games.

Watching Ben Simmons (24.0 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 7.3 APG) and Joel Embiid (26.2 PPG, 13.9 RPG) continue to prosper and become top players at their position is excellent, but for whatever reason, the dynamic duo is never expected to take the team to the next level.

Both have been voted to the upcoming All-Star Game, but could this really be their final season together?



5. New York Knicks

Current Record: 22-32, 11th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: G Dennis Smith Jr. - Torn Labrum (4-6 weeks)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: F Kelly Oubre Jr., G Elfrid Payton, G Frank Ntilikina, G Dennis Smith Jr.

Current Starting Lineup: Elfrid Payton - R.J. Barrett - Adonis Carter - Markieff Morris - Andre Drummond

Synopsis: I don't think anyone foresaw Adonis Carter (24.3 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 6.8 APG) being this good THIS early. There are rumblings that there is cause for concern between the relationship between Carter and Barrett, but that appears to be smoke at the moment.

The team has been inconsistent but is on the up and up as of late, which has to be making Coach David Fizdale's job a little safer.

The road to the playoffs is bleak, but hopefully it's just for this year.

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

NBA PRE ALL-STAR GAME REVIEW: CENTRAL
Youth movement has Cleveland Cavaliers on a Cinderella run.


Cleveland Cavaliers rookie guard R.J. Hampton might not be winning Rookie of the Year, but he might be guiding his team to a playoff spot.

1. Cleveland Cavaliers

Current Record: 30-27, 6th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: F Derrick Jones Jr - High Ankle Sprain (2-4 Weeks), F Kevin Love - Pinched Elbow Nerve (Returning Soon)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Collin Sexton

Current Starting Lineup: Darius Garland - Collin Sexton - Cedi Osman - Larry Nance Jr. - Tristan Thompson

Synopsis: So, who could believe that the lowly Cleveland Cavaliers, led by a Kevin Love who had been abandoned by LeBron James and Kyrie Irving, a controversial Tristan Thompson, and a bunch of first and second-year players would be leading a team over Giannis Antetokounmpo?

The quick answer is nobody, but Collin Sexton (who interestingly has an expiring contract) has taken that next step to stardom, averaging 23.2 points per game on 44% shooting. Love is still pulling his weight with 18.6 PPG and 10.1 RPG has the Cavaliers have silently been in a playoff spot all season long.

R.J. Hampton scoring 14.4 PPG off the bench is a nice surprise as well.



2. Chicago Bulls

Current Record: 28-26, 7th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: C Daniel Gafford - Dislocated Patella (1-2 months)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Zach LaVine, F Lauri Markkanen, C Wendell Carter Jr., F Otto Porter, F Thaddeus Young, G Kris Dunn

Current Starting Lineup: Coby White - Zach LaVine - Otto Porter - Lauri Markkanen - Wendell Carter Jr.

Synopsis: Guard Zach LaVine (29.7 PPG, 50% FG) continues to propel the Chicago Bulls to new heights, as they're currently sitting in a playoff spot.

The Chicago Bulls are in a tough spot where they have to think if the majority of their starting lineup is going to be interested in returning. Should they roll the dice for a possible playoff run, or are they going to prepare for a very long off-season of retooling a roster around Coby White and Deni Avdija.

Seeing LaVine and Markkanen (18.9 PPG and 8.2 RPG) remain with the Bulls after the Trade Deadline pass was extremely interesting.



3. Milwaukee Bucks

Current Record: 28-27, 8th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: G Eric Bledsoe - Broken Hand (2-4 weeks)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: F Giannis Antetokounmpo, G Donte DiVincenzo, F Ersan Ilyasova, C Robin Lopez

Projected Starting Lineup: George Hill - Donte DiVincenzo - Khris Middleton - Giannis Antetokounmpo - Brook Lopez

Synopsis: The Milwaukee Bucks needed this season to show their superstar and MVP-caliber leader Giannis Antetokounmpo that he didn't absolutely have to carry his team to have any kind of success after getting washed out of the Finals last season by LeBron and the LA Lakers.

And then he got hurt, and now here they are; sitting in 8th place, barely hanging onto a playoff spot.

Giannis is back, averaging 34.8 points per game and an eye-popping 16.9 rebounds per game while shooting 58% from the field. But, this summer is going to be very interesting if the Bucks don't make the playoffs.



4. Indiana Pacers

Current Record: 26-29, 9th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: F T.J. Leaf - Bruised Heel (1-2 weeks)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Victor Oladipo, F T.J. Warren, G T.J. McConnell

Current Starting Lineup: Malcolm Brogdon - Victor Oladipo - T.J. Warren - Domantas Sabonis - Myles Turner

Synopsis: The Indiana Pacers are perpetually on the outside looking in and are hoping to salvage the rest of the season before they probably have to break up the band and start from scratch.

Oladipo has made it fairly clear that he's going to test his value in free agency, and T.J. Warren is probably to follow suit. Myles Turner has been in trade rumors for years and it finally seems as though this has been the last straw.

The team has to hope they creep into the playoff picture and can make some noise for potential suitors.



5. Detroit Pistons

Current Record: 19-35, 14th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: F Blake Griffin - Broken Arm (2-4 Weeks), G Bruce Brown - Broken Nose (1-2 Weeks)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Luke Kennard, G Avery Bradley, F Gerald Green, F Blake Griffin

Current Starting Lineup: Nico Mannion - Luke Kennard - Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk - Enes Kanter - Hassan Whiteside

Synopsis: The Detroit Pistons have come to realize that Hassan Whiteside wasn't the missing piece that could get Derrick Rose and Blake Griffin to co-exist and emerge into a potential playoff spot.

Now, D-Rose is with the Lakers, and Blake Griffin would have been somewhere else had he not been injured when the Trade Deadline came around.

This team is officially in the Cade Cunningham Sweepstakes and will look to offload some players in the off-season.

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

NBA PRE ALL-STAR GAME REVIEW: SOUTHEAST
Hawks running away from Southeast Division competition thanks to superstar Trae Young


Atlanta Hawks' guard Trae Young had a SIXTY-FOUR point game this season. That's all you need to know.

1. Atlanta Hawks

Current Record: 35-19, 2nd in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: F Cameron Reddich - Torn Achilles (6-8 weeks), G Kevin Huerter - Broken Leg (1-2 weeks)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Trae Young, F John Collins, G Kevin Huerter

Current Starting Lineup: Trae Young - Jordan Clarkson - De'Andre Hunter - John Collins - Clint Capela

Synopsis: The Atlanta Hawks had a very successful off-season when they added the tenacious Jordan Clarkson, prying him away from Utah. Who knew they would need him so much until Kevin Huerter broke his leg early in the season.

The Hawks, being led by superstar and All-Star starter Trae Young (32.8 PPG, 9.2 APG, 53% FG and 48% 3PT), decided they would continue to churn behind Young and expiring contract John Collins and wait to get Huerter and hopefully Cam Reddish back come playoff time.

They'll continue to give the Boston Celtics problems.



2. Miami Heat

Current Record: 24-31, 10th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: G Goran Dragic - Torn Achilles (Out for Season), F Jimmy Butler - Bruised Hip (Returning Soon)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: C Bam Adebayo, G Kendrick Nunn, C Kelly Olynyk, G Duncan Robinson, F Meyers Leonard

Current Starting Lineup: Kendrick Nunn - Andre Iguodala - Isaac Okoro - Rondae Hollis-Jefferson - Bam Adebayo

Synopsis: The Miami Heat are going to have one of the most interesting finishes to the season. They explored getting a point guard with Goran Dragic (fresh off a new contract, mind you) is out for the season with a torn Achilles

They've slipped a little bit with leader and superstar Jimmy Butler (19.6 PPG on 49% shooting from the field) has been out as of late with lower-body injuries. Bam Adebayo and Kendrick Nunn have continued to try and buoy the Heat back into a playoff spot.

The Heat have a strong team, and with Butler back soon, watch out.



3. Orlando Magic

Current Record: 22-31, 12th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: G Terrence Ross - Broken Leg (6-8 weeks), G Evan Fournier - Shoulder Tendinitis (Returning soon)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: F Jonathan Isaac, C Mohamed Bamba, G Markelle Fultz, F Aaron Gordon

Projected Starting Lineup: Darren Collison - Markelle Fultz - Evan Turner - Aaron Gordon - Nikola Vucevic

Synopsis: The Orlando Magic were reportedly shopping the likes of Nikola Vucevic, Mo Bamba, and Aaron Gordon the last few weeks to try and get their rebuild kickstarted.

They have never been able to build off of their young core despite Markelle Fultz coming in and becoming a legitimate NBA starter. Losing Terrence Ross for the majority of the season to a broken leg certainly didn't help.

They have some key contracts expiring, so it will be interesting to see how things work out.



4. Washington Wizards

Current Record: 23-33, 13th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: None

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Bradley Beal, G John Wall, C Moritz Wagner

Current Starting Lineup: John Wall - Bradley Beal - Troy Brown Jr. - Rui Hachimura - Moritz Wagner

Synopsis: Washington Wizards fans took a collective sigh of relief when John Wall (21.4 PPG, 8.0 APG on 46% from the field) returned to the court and immediately became an All-Star once again.

They then realized that both him and Bradley Beal (27 PPG) are unrestricted free agents at the end of the season, and there is no real reason other than loyalty for them to resign. They haven't been able to push the Wizards out of the basement because of their garbage roster.

The Wizards need help. Fast.




5. Charlotte Hornets

Current Record: 15-39, 15th in Eastern Conference

Notable Injuries: G Terry Rozier III - Dislocated Patella (2-4 months), G Malik Monk - Broken Wrist (1-2 weeks)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: C Mitchell Robinson, G Devonte Graham, F Miles Bridges, F Kevin Knox II, G Terry Rozier III, G Malik Monk

Current Starting Lineup: Cole Anthony - Bryan Antoine - Miles Bridges - P.J. Washington - Mitchell Robinson

Synopsis: The Charlotte Hornets had a gaggle of different talent on their team and hoped that - although they are incredibly young and unproven - the team would work out.

Cole Anthony was thrust into a starting position when Terry Rozier III dislocated his patella and has missed the majority of the season and Malik Monk, already sick of Charlotte, broke his wrist.

This team just isn't good and is going to have a lot of cap space and young pieces that would be interesting to one of the top players in free agency this off-season.

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

NBA PRE ALL-STAR GAME REVIEW: PACIFIC
The Splash Brothers return has Golden State back on top.


The Golden State Warriors lost Kevin Durant, had a terrible season with their superstars, and now they're back. Steph Curry is an MVP-frontrunner.

1. Golden State Warriors

Current Record: 40-16, 1st in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: None

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Stephen Curry, F Eric Paschall, G Damion Lee

Current Starting Lineup: Stephen Curry - Klay Thompson - Andrew Wiggins - Draymond Green - Isaiah Stewart

Synopsis: The Golden State Warriors are back running the league again, big thanks to Steph Curry's bonafide MVP season, averaging 33 points per game, shooting 55% from the field and almost 50% from three-point.

They have the young tandem in the frontcourt with Isaiah Stewart and Obi Toppin that compliment Draymond Green very well when he comes off the court. Klay Thompson's averages are a little lower than usual (47% from the field and 43% from three-point) as he returns from missing last season.

This is back to the being the Warriors' world, and we're all just living in it.



2. Los Angeles Lakers

Current Record: 34-20, 2nd in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: G Derrick Rose - Pulled Calf Muscle (2-4 weeks)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: F LeBron James, G Derrick Rose, F Kyle Kuzma, C John Henson, F Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, G Alex Caruso

Current Starting Lineup: Austin Rivers - Alex Caruso - LeBron James - Anthony Davis - Kyle O'Quinn

Synopsis: Who would have thought that at 36-years old, LeBron James (27.1 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 9.7 APG on 51% from the field) would still be a bonafide MVP-threat, even with a terrible Lakers roster outside of Anthony Davis.

The team traded for Derrick Rose; prying him away from the Detroit Pistons, and he immediately got injured for the next few weeks.

The team's lineup is entirely dependent on Rose being healthy and productive. If things go off the rails, we could even see LeBron bolt for greener pastures.



3. Los Angeles Clippers

Current Record: 32-23, 4th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: None

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Paul George, G Louis Williams, G Landry Shamet, G Patrick Beverley, F DeMarre Carroll, F Luc Mbah A Moute

Projected Starting Lineup: Patrick Beverley - Paul George - Kawhi Leonard - Montrezl Harrell - Ivica Zubac

Synopsis: The Los Angeles Clippers are hovering near the top of the league as per usual, and they are incredibly hungry to prove that the Lakers slapping the you-know-what out of them last season in the Conference Finals was a fluke.

Kawhi Leonard (27.1 PPG, 9.1 RPG on 49% FG) is back to All-Star form while the team figures out what to do with the litany of contracts that are about to expire.

Patrick Beverley and Lou Williams, the heart and soul of the Clippers, are both expiring and the Clippers are hoping they will be around for years to come.



4. Sacramento Kings

Current Record: 24-30, 11th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: F Nemanja Bjelica - Spinal Injury (2-4 months)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G De'Aaron Fox, C Marvin Bagley III, C Richaun Holmes, C Harry Giles III, F Nemanja Bjelica

Current Starting Lineup: De'Aaron Fox - Buddy Hield - Harrison Barnes - Jae Crowder - Marvin Bagley III

Synopsis: The rumblings coming out of Sacramento is that De'Aaron Fox is leaning towards working out a new deal after dipping his toes in the free agency pool. Marvin Bagley III is all but gone, to the point that the Kings explored their trade options.

The team has talent, but none that have come together to play effectively, especially in such a tough decision.

They have to pray that Fox returns next season and they can continue to build.



5. Phoenix Suns

Current Record: 12-43, 15th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: C DeAndre Ayton - Fractured Leg (2-4 months)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: C DeAndre Ayton, F Mikal Bridges, C Frank Kaminsky III

Current Starting Lineup: Ricky Rubio - Devin Booker - Mikal Bridges - Julius Randle - Frank Kaminsky III

Synopsis: The patience and fortitude young star Devin Booker has shown is insane. The Suns are terrible, DeAndre Ayton (his co-star) has missed the entire season with a fractured leg, and he didn't even manage to sneak into the All-Star Game.

The Suns managed to add Julius Randle to the lineup in a trade earlier this season with the New York Knicks, but he is almost certainly leaving in free agency.

There are going to be PLENTY of rumors swirling this off-season about a potential trade for the 24-year old.

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

NBA PRE ALL-STAR GAME REVIEW: SOUTHWEST
Mount Williamson has arrived.


Zion Williamson, after taking part in a little bit of his rookie season, has taken the next step to be an NBA superstar.

1. New Orleans Pelicans

Current Record: 34-20, 3rd in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: G Nickeil Alexander-Walker - Broken Nose (4-6 weeks), G Tre Mann - Pulled Calf Muscle (1-2 weeks), G J.J. Redick - High Ankle Sprain (1-2 weeks)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Lonzo Ball, G Jrue Holiday, F Josh Hart, G J.J. Redick

Current Starting Lineup: Lonzo Ball - Jrue Holiday - Brandon Ingram - Zion Williamson - Derrick Favors

Synopsis: The ascension we have seen from Zion Williamson in his second season is quite staggering. He's continued to impose his will on defenders down low, despite needing to work on his jump-shooting a little more. Nonetheless, he will be at the All-Star Game.

Brandon Ingram continues to improve steadily, averaging 25 points a game on 51% shooting after signing his big contract during the last off-season.

The Pelicans are making noise, and they could make much more come playoff time at this rate.


2. Dallas Mavericks

Current Record: 27-27, 6th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: C Boban Marjanovic - Torn Hand Ligament (2-4 weeks), C Kristaps Porzingis - Broken Leg (2-4 weeks), G Jalen Brunson - Broken Foot (Returning Soon)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Luka Doncic, G Tim Hardaway Jr., F Justin Jackson, C Boban Marjanovic

Current Starting Lineup: Shabazz Napier - Luka Doncic - Dorian Finney-Smith - Maxi Kleber - Dwight Powell

Synopsis: Mr. LeBron James? We have a Mr. Luka Doncic here who would like to inquire about your crown.

Doncic is averaging 33.9 PPG, 12.6 RPG, and 9.0 APG while holding the Mavericks in a playoff spot without his partner in crime, Kristaps Porzingis, for the majority of the season.

Boban Marjanovic also being out has the Mavericks a little thin in the paint, but as long as they stay in the top eight, they will look very different come playoff time and catch someone by surprise.


3. Houston Rockets

Current Record: 27-28, 7th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: None

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G James Harden, G Russell Westbrook, F Robert Covington, F Ben McLemore

Projected Starting Lineup: Russell Westbrook - James Harden - Ben McLemore - Robert Covington - Isaiah Hartenstein

Synopsis: Russell Westbrook has been outspoken about getting his new contract while the Houston Rockets are clearly focused on their other superstar guard, who wants to wait and see how things play out.

The two are going to continue to carry the majority of the load and hope come playoff time that the likes of Eric Gordon, P.J. Tucker, and Robert Covington decide to show up unlike last year.

Are we really prepared for an off-season that sees both Russ and Harden both as free agents?



4. San Antonio Spurs

Current Record: 24-30, 12th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: C Jakob Poeltl - Sore Knee (Returning Soon)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: C LaMarcus Aldridge, G Derrick White, F Rudy Gay, G Patrick Mills

Current Starting Lineup: Dejounte Murray - Derrick White - DeMar DeRozan - Jeremiah Robinson-Earl - LaMarcus Aldridge

Synopsis: The San Antonio Spurs attempted to just fill in slots of need and hoped that the likes of LaMarcus Aldridge and DeMar DeRozan could keep the team's head above water.

The Western Conference is too tough and the Spurs can't hang with the same system that they have always played. Gone are the days of Kawhi Leonard, Tim Duncan, and Tony Parker.

It also seems as though Coach Pop won't be around for much longer. Retirement must look pretty enticing right about now.



5. Memphis Grizzlies

Current Record: 24-31, 13th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: G Tyus Jones - Hyperextended Shoulder (2-4 weeks), G Jamal Crawford - Shin Splints (Returning Soon)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: F Jaren Jackson Jr., F Justise Winslow

Current Starting Lineup: Ja Morant - Dillon Brooks - Kyle Anderson - Jaren Jackson Jr. - Jonas Valanciunas

Synopsis: The most surprising part about the Memphis Grizzlies' unfortunately disappointing season is that Jonas Valanciunas was voted to the All-Star Game over Ja Morant.

Morant has taken that next step as the offensive leader of the Grizzlies, averaging 25.8 points per game on 51% shooting from the field. The team is good, but could definitely use another offensive outlet to creep up in this tough Western Conference.

This isn't their year, but they will rebound.

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

NBA PRE ALL-STAR GAME REVIEW: NORTHWEST
Tough Northwest Division has the Minnesota Timberwolves just ahead of the Portland Trail Blazers.


Karl-Anthony Towns has paced an unproven Minnesota Timberwolves in the midst of an All-Star season.

1. Minnesota Timberwolves

Current Record: 29-26, 5th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: F Jake Layman - Hyperextended Knee (Returning Soon)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: F Josh Okogie, F James Johnson

Current Starting Lineup: D'Angelo Russell - Anthony Edwards - Josh Okogie - Chandler Parsons - Karl-Anthony Towns

Synopsis: The Minnesota Timberwolves have won many key games this season behind the excellent play of superstar Karl-Anthony Towns (24.8 PPG, 16.3 RPG, and 51% shooting from the field) that has landed him in this year's All-Star Game.

D'Angelo Russell continues to carry the offensive load, even more than during his torrent run with the Brooklyn Nets (25.6 PPG on 49% shooting from the field and 43% from three-point range, which are both career-highs).

Anthony Edwards has proven to be a good addition and is continuing to grow into his role.


2. Portland Trail Blazers

Current Record: 25-29, 8th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: F Zach Collins - Severe Ankle Sprain (4-6 weeks), G C.J. McCollum - Severe Ankle Sprain (2-4 weeks)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: C Jusuf Nurkic, G Gary Trent Jr., G Anfernee Simons, F Jonas Jerebko, F Zach Collins

Current Starting Lineup: Damian Lillard - Gary Trent Jr. - Trevor Ariza - Nassir Little - Jusuf Nurkic

Synopsis: The Portland Trail Blazers have been hanging tough in the Western Conference but losing C.J. McCollum for a while with injury and Zach Collins going down has certainly hurt their depth.

Damian Lillard continues to quietly put up MVP numbers (32.4 points per game on a career-best 51% from the field and 42% from three-point range) while trying to single-handedly keep the Blazers' playoff hopes alive.

Lillard trade interest is at an all-time high, but he has remained adamant about spending his entire career with Portland. C.J. McCollum on the other hand...


3. Denver Nuggets

Current Record: 25-30, 9th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: None

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: F Michael Porter Jr., F Will Barton, G Monte Morris, G Gary Harris

Projected Starting Lineup: Jamal Murray - Gary Harris - Michael Porter Jr. - Jeff Green - Nikola Jokic

Synopsis: The Denver Nuggets are usually so deep and talented that they always are hanging around the middle of the playoff pack.

Not so much this season. Jokic isn't playing to his usual MVP status and Jamal Murray can only handle being the only star on the team.

Michael Porter Jr has been disgruntled in having a minor role with the team and has asked for a trade that the Nuggets would unable to facilitate before the Trade Deadline. A situation to monitor depending on how the Nuggets finish the season.



4. Oklahoma City Thunder

Current Record: 25-31, 10th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: C Steven Adams - Dislocated Shoulder (Returning Soon)

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Chris Paul, G Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, G Dennis Schroder, C Steven Adams

Current Starting Lineup: Chris Paul - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - Samuell Williamson - Danilo Gallinari - Alex Len

Synopsis: Chris Paul was the subject of many trade rumors as the Oklahoma City Thunder continuously plummeted down the standings due to the inexperience of their roster past Paul, Gilgeous-Alexander, and the now-injured Steven Adams (which most definitely didn't help things).

Adams returning and the Thunder getting a pick-and-roll going is going to the only saving grace for the team, while Gilgeous-Alexander continues to blossom into a solid NBA player.

If the team doesn't turn things around, Paul might leave for greener pastures.



5. Utah Jazz

Current Record: 23-30, 14th in Western Conference

Notable Injuries: None

Notable Upcoming Free Agents: G Donovan Mitchell, C Rudy Gobert, G Mike Conley, C Tony Bradley, F Joe Ingles

Current Starting Lineup: Mike Conley - Donovan Mitchell - Royce O'Neale - Precious Achiuwa - Rudy Gobert

Synopsis: Who would have thought that the Utah Jazz would have fallen so far off track? They haven't dealt with too high of a multitude of injuries and their bench is talented enough to take the pressure off their stars.

There has been some more friction between Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert after what happened last season, but after making the playoffs last season, most thought that it had gone away.

Both are free agents, and it seems as though Gobert will be the odd man out.

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

KNICKS SLIP PAST LOWLY SUNS, LOSE CARTER TO INJURY
Feb. 26, 2021 - Madison Square Garden, New York, NY




Devin Booker had the opportunity to push the Phoenix Suns to victory but couldn't get the shot off in time.

Phoenix Suns at New York Knicks
Feb 26, 2021	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	OT	SCORE
Phoenix (12-44)	29	33	33	17	-	112
New York (24-32)	29	26	27	31	-	113

Phoenix Suns
STARTERS	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Ricky Rubio	37	3-10	1-4	5-6	2	8	1	0	1	12
Devin Booker	38	9-18	2-9	4-4	7	6	1	2	3	24
Mikal Bridges	36	3-9	2-6	3-4	4	3	0	0	1	11
Julius Randle	30	10-16	0-0	5-6	4	1	0	1	1	25
Frank Kaminsky III	37	3-6	1-4	3-3	10	5	1	6	1	10
BENCH	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Jeremy Lin	8	4-4	2-2	1-2	1	0	0	0	0	11
Cheick Diallo	18	2-5	0-0	3-6	4	1	0	1	0	7
Theo Maledon	10	2-3	0-0	0-0	2	1	0	1	2	4
Elie Okobo	8	2-4	0-2	0-0	1	0	0	0	1	4
Glenn Robinson III	13	1-2	0-0	0-0	3	0	0	0	0	2
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist	3	1-1	0-0	0-0	0	1	0	0	0	2
TEAM TOTALS		40-78	8-27	24-31	40	26	3	11	10	112

New York Knicks
STARTERS	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Elfrid Payton	30	2-7	0-1	2-2	6	11	0	1	1	6
R.J. Barrett	39	13-28	2-10	9-12	4	2	2	0	1	37
Adonis Carter	22	4-11	2-3	5-5	4	4	0	0	2	15
Markieff Morris	37	4-7	1-3	2-3	6	1	0	2	0	11
Andre Drummond	34	9-17	0-0	6-9	19	3	2	0	1	24
BENCH	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Kelly Oubre Jr.	20	4-6	3-4	3-4	2	0	0	0	1	14
Mario Hezonja	15	2-7	0-2	0-0	3	0	0	1	0	4
James Wiseman	14	1-5	0-1	0-2	10	1	0	0	2	2
Frank Ntilikina	18	0-8	0-4	0-0	2	6	1	0	2	0
TEAM TOTALS		39-97	8-28	27-37	58	29	5	4	10	113

Simmed Games

Feb. 28, 2021 - Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

IND (28-29) | 23 | 31 | 14 | 33 | 101
NYK (24-33) | 23 | 19 | 21 | 26 | 89

IND: T.J. Warren: 21 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 9/20 FG
NYK: Andre Drummond: 17 points, 22 rebounds, 8/15 FG

---

Mar. 3, 2021 - Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

CHI (29-29) | 32 | 32 | 34 | 25 | 123
NYK (24-34) | 19 | 19 | 36 | 28 | 102

CHI: Zach LaVine: 43 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 16/28 FG, 6/14 3PT
NYK: Andre Drummond: 26 points, 16 rebounds, 12/22 FG
NYK: R.J. Barrett: Broken Ankle (Out 6-8 weeks)

---

Mar. 5, 2021 - Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

ATL (38-21) | 28 | 36 | 28 | 31 | 123
NYK (25-34) | 30 | 32 | 36 | 29 | 127

ATL: Trae Young: 40 points, 12 assists, 14/28 FG, 8/17 3PT
NYK: Andre Drummond: 26 points, 16 rebounds, 2 blocks, 10/16 FG

[RolePlayer]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

Not good news for the Knicks

[trekfan]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

Wow, love this Carter kid and the bio you put in for him. He's really got the Knicks going in the right direction, but he's getting injured a lot in year 1 -- the Knicks might have mounted a late challenge for a playoff spot with the way they were playing recently, but if Carter is out for any significant time, their season is likely lost to them.

[GoldenJet]

Re: The Rose That Grew From Concrete.

Not good news for the Knicks

Wow, love this Carter kid and the bio you put in for him. He's really got the Knicks going in the right direction, but he's getting injured a lot in year 1 -- the Knicks might have mounted a late challenge for a playoff spot with the way they were playing recently, but if Carter is out for any significant time, their season is likely lost to them.

Very unfortunate stuff for us. Now, we've lost R.J. Barrett as well so our two leading scorers are out. Our fate is in the hands of Andre Drummond until Carter returns.

I had a quick lapse and forgot to post about the All-Star Game that happened just before the Phoenix game. That's coming up next.