THE BASKETBALL ORACLE

The Real Season In The NBA Starts Now ….Because It’s Christmas And David Stern Is Santa Clause …. ?

Posted by tophatal on December 23, 2009

Well if you had any doubts that the NBA season is underway, then look no further than the play of the Boston Celtics, Orlando Magic , Cleveland Cavaliers , Los Angeles Lakers , Portland Trailblazers, Denver Nuggets, and the Atlanta Hawks. And perhaps the most surprising of these teams mentioned may well be the Atlanta Hawks.

Minneapolis , Minn,. December 22nd 2009. Josh Smith (#5) of the Atlanta Hawks rises to the basket against Kevin Love (#42) of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the game on December 22, 2009 at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ David Sherman ...... copyrighted material @ All rights reserved ...

Minneapolis , Minn,. December 22nd 2009. Josh Smith (#5) of the Atlanta Hawks rises to the basket against Kevin Love (#42) of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the game on December 22, 2009 at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ David Sherman ...... copyrighted material @ All rights reserved ...

The Eastern Conference Hawks have been playing some exemplary and an exciting brand of basketball. So much so, that one has to say that they’ve got to be looked at as the ’surprise team’ within the NBA at present. And for Commissioner, David Stern ,this has got to be pleasing not only for him , but the NBA hierarchy and most of all the fans in general around the NBA. Without the usual up and comers shall we say , we’d still be looking at the usual suspects around the league for our entertainment. Granted , we’re also witnessing the privilege of seeing the mediocrity of the New Jersey Nets. And one sincerely hopes that their alarming slide into banality doesn’t continue throughout the remainder of the season ? If so, then their long suffering fans may well have to look elsewhere for entertainment in terms of the hardcourt game. And let’s put it this way the entertainment they seek , won’t be coming from the New York Knicks, either ! This Mike D’Antoni coached team gives a new meaning to the word putrid, in terms of their overall play. And what’s even more alarming is that there appears to be no effort forthcoming from the team.

East Rutherford , NJ,. December 19th, 2009. Kobe Bryant (#24) of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots against Josh Boone (#2) of the New Jersey Nets on December 19, 2009 at the IZOD Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/ Gett Images/ Nathaniel S. Butler .........

East Rutherford , NJ,. December 19th, 2009. Kobe Bryant (#24) of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots against Josh Boone (#2) of the New Jersey Nets on December 19, 2009 at the IZOD Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/ Gett Images/ Nathaniel S. Butler .........

We know that the game’s major stars in the guise of Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, LeBron James , Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard and Brandon Roy will be looking to hold sway over the league with their play. But it’d be remiss not to mention some of the rookies in the league who’ve started off strong. The Milwaukee Bucks’ Brandon Jennings has shown that he’s a star on the rise. And though he’s no longer a rookie the play of the Oklahoma Thunder’s Kevin Durant has made everyone sit up and take not of this ‘one man wrecking crew’. It seems that on any given night when his game is on , then Durant comes out to lay waste to the opposition by running them ragged with his offensive weaponry. Never mind the fact that he’s making the scoreboard register numbers faster than the women who are coming out of the woodwork to lay claim that they’ve been bedded by Tiger Woods.

Milwaukee Bucks' Brandon Jennings, front, backs down Indiana Pacers' Tyler Hansbrough during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Indianapolis, Monday, Dec. 21, 2009. picture appears courtesy of AP/photo/ Michael Conroy ......

Milwaukee Bucks' Brandon Jennings, front, backs down Indiana Pacers' Tyler Hansbrough during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Indianapolis, Monday, Dec. 21, 2009. picture appears courtesy of AP/photo/ Michael Conroy ......

There are number of teams that are on the decline due to a number of factors. A lack of coaching , inexperienced or an aging roster and then some could also say that there might be something of mindset with the lack of a will to win. And at present those traits seem to sum up the Detroit Pistons. The loss of Rasheed Wallace to the Celtics and the return of a ‘prodigal son’ in, Ben Wallace , seems to have not made a change for the better. If anything the team is struggling to show some semblance of competitiveness. And for team coach, John Kuester and General Manager, Joe Dumars this is something of anathema and a dilemma. The acquiring of Allen Iverson backfired with the team trading Chauncey Billups in exchange for the seasoned veteran. But the turmoil that followed, in essence summed up how far the team has fallen. Then coach, Michael Curry couldn’t instill what he wanted out of the players and nor did they reciprocate with their best efforts in return. It certainly then didn’t help that there was a degree of acrimony being built up between Iverson and Curry- and also between Iverson and Dumars. It would all lead to the abrupt firing of Curry and Iverson being allowed to leave the team as a free agent.

Charlotte, NC.,HARLOTTE, Will Bynum (#12) of the Detroit Pistons guards against D.J. Augustin (#14) of the Charlotte Bobcats on December 22, 2009 at the Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, North Carolina. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Kent Smith ..............

Charlotte, NC.,HARLOTTE, Will Bynum (#12) of the Detroit Pistons guards against D.J. Augustin (#14) of the Charlotte Bobcats on December 22, 2009 at the Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, North Carolina. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Kent Smith ..............

Allen Iverson’s sojourn with the Memphis Grizzlies was short lived. And he has returned to where his NBA professional career started, in the city of ‘Brotherly Love’ with the Philadelphia 76ers. His presence there, though welcomed with opened arms, it will take a great deal of more than a love-fest between the two parties for Iverson for to prove that he’s still capable to contributing to a team, not just as a player with offensive presence but also to prove himself as a team leader with veteran presence. That if anything will be the legacy now for Iverson at this stage of his career. He’s at the twilight of it and one seriously doubts if the 76ers has what it takes to be even viewed as a legitimate contender for postseason honors , much less as a contender within the Eastern Conference. At best they may well no more than a fifth or sixth seed out of the conference, when it’s all said and done.

Memphis , Tn ,. December 20th , 2009. Carmelo Anthony (#15) of the Denver Nuggets hugs Rudy Gay (#22) of the Memphis Grizzlies after losing to the Memphis Grizzlies at FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tennessee. picture appears courtesy of NBAE / Getty Images/ Joe Murphy ..............

Memphis , Tn ,. December 20th , 2009. Carmelo Anthony (#15) of the Denver Nuggets hugs Rudy Gay (#22) of the Memphis Grizzlies after losing to the Memphis Grizzlies at FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tennessee. picture appears courtesy of NBAE / Getty Images/ Joe Murphy ..............

While there’s a great deal to be said for the talent in the Eastern Conference . It is their counterpart in the Western Conference where ‘the show’ is said to take place. The eight best teams in the conference record wise , all have an above .500 record. Whereas , in the Eastern Conference ony five of the top eight teams even have an above .500 record. The quality and the talent is in the West but in the East there the game is greatly predicated on defense. In the West that’s not always the case. Though you’d be hard pressed to believe when hearing many of the fans there speak about how their teams are defensively. Say it ain’t so ?

Now as we may wile away our time opining on our teams. We ought to remember that the season has essentially started as of now. What little we’ve seen of the teams, has been for them to start to fine tune their games for the onslaught of the next six arduous months of traveling and playing. For some teams their season is already essentially over . No disrespect to the Nets, Warriors , Timberwolves , Knicks and Sixers. Don’t call us but we’ll call you if the NBA is in need of your services for the postseason.

Los Angeles, California ,. Kevin Durant (#35) of the Oklahoma City Thunder dunks against Andrew Bynum (#17) of the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on December 22, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Andrew D Bernstein .............

Los Angeles, California ,. Kevin Durant (#35) of the Oklahoma City Thunder dunks against Andrew Bynum (#17) of the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on December 22, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Andrew D Bernstein .............

It has to be said that this season is one filled with a great deal if intrigue as there are so many plot lines ,suspense and theater to be had. Will LeBron James with Shaquille O’Neal in tow be able to lead the Cavaliers to a title ? This may well be his last shot at one with the organization. Can the Celtics regain their composure and acquire another title with Kevin Garnett leading the charge ? Or will we see Dwight Howard finally live up to that leadership role with the Magic, instead of the asinine portrayal of Superman ? The thing is, it wasn’t Kryptonite that led to Howard imploding in last season’s NBA Finals against the Lakers. It was his sheer arrogance and naivete’ that led to his and the team’s downfall.

For the Los Angeles Lakers and their influential coach Phil Jackson, this season and NBA championship is theirs to lose. As the presumptive favorites to win it all again this season. It’ll be down to the calming influence of Jackson and the mercurial skills and leadership of Kobe Bryant take to this once again to the ‘promised land’. And one would hope that Bryant’s new teammate, Ron Artest, can above all, keep a level head on his shoulders ? As it is, he’s already proving that his basketball mind is great but anything beyond that intellectually and he’s like a fish out of water.

Commissioner , David Stern sits down with noted columnist and tv sports personality Michael Wilbon. Stern discusses the economics of the NBA.

Plot lines , stocking stuffers , call it what you will. Because ‘Santa Claus Stern’ wants you to enjoy this festive season surrounding the NBA and up to the season’s finale. After all, it is the least he’s asking of you , or is it ? Have fun this NBA season and hopefully your team will do well !

NB: To view the NBA Conference standings click here….

General allround NBA stats click here .

Posted in Basketball, NBA, Sports | Tagged: , , | 3 Comments »

One Man Doesn’t Make A Team, So Here’s Looking At You Kid

Posted by tophatal on December 1, 2009

I can’t help but feel sorry for the New Jersey Nets’ coach, Lawrence Frank at present. His job at present is a thankless task, as the team has the worst record currently in the NBA.

East Rutherford , NJ - NOVEMBER 21: Mike D'Antoni speaks with Wilson Chandler (21) of the New York Knicks during a game against the New Jersey Nets on November 21, 2009 at the Izod Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Jeyhoun Allebaugh ......................

East Rutherford , NJ - NOVEMBER 21: Mike D'Antoni speaks with Wilson Chandler (21) of the New York Knicks during a game against the New Jersey Nets on November 21, 2009 at the Izod Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Jeyhoun Allebaugh ......................

And with that the team record (0-13) within the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference, looking congruously sustainable , given the fact that they’ve been woefully inept in all aspects of the game. One can only that their first win of the season will come about very soon. They already fast a tough task within their own division with the likes the likes of the Boston Celtics (10-4),Toronto Raptors (6-8),Philadelphia 76ers (5-8) and the New York Knicks (3-10) ahead of them of the standings-within the divsion. And with barely one sixth of the season having passed. It certainly doesn’t at all bode well for the team. If they maintain their current pace of futility, they’ll be one pace to attain no more than 4 wins against 78 losses. And that’s hardly liable to happen but they could although set a record of some kind in abject futility.

East Rutherford , NJ - November 21: Lawrence Frank of the New Jersey Nets argues a call against the New York Knicks on November 21, 2009 at the Izod Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Frank received a technical foul as a result of the play.

East Rutherford , NJ - November 21: Lawrence Frank of the New Jersey Nets argues a call against the New York Knicks on November 21, 2009 at the Izod Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Frank received a technical foul as a result of the play. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/ Getty Images/ Jeyhoun Allebaugh .............................

Courtesy of NBA.com

FCRC Statement on NYS Court of Appeals Ruling on Eminent Domain Lawsuit Filed by Opponents of Atlantic Yards in Brooklyn
Courts Again Side with Atlantic Yards:
Jobs and Affordable Housing to Come to Brooklyn
November 24, 2009

BROOKLYN, NY—Bruce Ratner, CEO and Chairman of Forest City Ratner Companies, issued the following statement today regarding the NYS Court of Appeals ruling in favor of the Atlantic Yards project in Brooklyn.

The Court’s ruling upholds the State’s right to use eminent domain given the public benefits associated with the Atlantic Yards Development inBrooklyn.

“Once again the courts have made it clear that this project represents a significant public benefit for the people of Brooklyn and the entire City,” Mr. Ratner said. “Our commitment to the entire project is as strong today as when we started six years ago. Today, however, this project is even more important given the need for jobs and economic development.”

Mr. Ratner said construction activity on the yards will continue, with the intent that the Nets will play ball in the Barclays Center in the 2011-2012 NBA Season.

In addition to Barclays, which has the exclusive naming rights, eight companies have signed on as founding partners for the arena.

The courts have ruled consistently in favor of the development. Mr. Ratner explained as well that the arena and larger development are expected to create 16,924 union construction jobs and over 8,000 permanent jobs. The tax revenues that will be generated for the City and State during the construction period are expected to exceed $240 million and after construction reach approximately $70 million a year.

====================================================
====================================================

In large part the team is made up of seasoned veterans , sprinkled in with some youth. But with players such as Vince Carter , Kenyon Martin and Jason Kidd no longer a part of this team. They’re now a long ways off from when they were viewed as being one of the powerhouses in the Eastern Conference. At that time they were being coached by Byron Scott, the recently fired former coach of the New Orleans Hornets.

Devin Harris (34) of the New Jersey Nets shoots against Al Harrington (7) of the New York Knicks on November 21, 2009 at the Izod Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Jeyhoun Allebaugh ..............

Devin Harris (34) of the New Jersey Nets shoots against Al Harrington (7) of the New York Knicks on November 21, 2009 at the Izod Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Jeyhoun Allebaugh ..............

The best player on the team is considered to be their guard, Devin Harris. And with team owner, Bruce Ratner,Team President, Rod Thorn and General Manager, Kiki Vanderweghe looking to position themselves as major player in the LeBron James’ sweepstakes in 2010. One can’t be seemingly sure what attitude should be taken as to the ambitions of the organization. All we are keenly aware of is, that they’ll leave no stone unturned in their quest to acquire the player.

And with James being reticent as to what his real plans are once the ‘09-10 season reaches its pinnacle. Fans of the Cleveland Cavaliers, as well as James’ newest teammate, Shaquille O’Neal will hope that the player remains in Cleveland. A hard court press is being made by all vested parties in Cleveland. From the team’s principal partner Dan Gilbert, to general manager,Danny Ferry and the Cavaliers’ fans, themselves. They all want the player to remain in his hometown city. However, much of that will be predicated upon the success that they achieve this season. And the ultimate goal there is to win an NBA championship.

A number of teams are obviously interested in acquiring LeBron James. And why not , he might just be the most dynamic player in the NBA at present, with the exception of Los Angeles Lakers’ guard Kobe Bryant. And from there, all comparison ought to end ! And with teams such as the Miami Heat, New York Knicks, as well as the New Jersey Nets all vying for James’ service. One can well understand the reason why it is that the Nets are said to be interested in the player. And with the Heat’s Dwyane Wade having said that he’ll make it his goal of trying to lure James to South Beach and to the team. You can see that the Nets’ fans have got to be hoping that serendipity will somehow play a part in the decision to be made by LeBron.

As to the season thus far for the New Jersey Nets. They’re under an ever growing pressure as the losses continue to mount up. With the fans now becoming ever more indifferent as to the team’s plight. The attendance for home games has continued to slide. And with Bruce Ratner’s wish to relocate the team from New Jersey to Brooklyn, there’s an urgency for the team to perform somewhat better than they’re now presently doing. Growing unrest will only add to the tension and with the hundreds of millions of dollars on the line, in terms of the redevelopment of the new site that will house the Nets, alongside commercial and residential properties. The organization requires the right type of PR and publicity to create a fervor around the team and the development , itself.

Al Harrington (7) of the New York Knicks drives the lane against Trenton Hassel (44) of the New Jersey Nets on November 21, 2009 at the Izod Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The New York Knicks would go on to defeat the New Jersey Nets 98-91 . picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Jeyhoun Allebaugh ............

Al Harrington (7) of the New York Knicks drives the lane against Trenton Hassel (44) of the New Jersey Nets on November 21, 2009 at the Izod Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Jeyhoun Allebaugh ............

Roster wise, as I’ve alluded to earlier,the team is made up of youth and seasoned veterans.However,the team is really lacking a veteran leader and a proven scorer. And that may well be one of the drawbacks for the team at present.Defensively, they’ve struggled and on the offensive side of things there too, the team has struggled greatly this season. And there too, there appears to be no respite at hand for the team or its beleaguered coach, Lawrence Frank.

With the presumptive thinking being that in having LeBron James added to the roster , there’ll be an immediate change in fortune for the team. Well, much of that’d be predicated upon the fact that James would be complemented with players that are commensurate with his skill and mindset. And that doesn’t appear to be the case with the current New Jersey Nets’ roster at present ! Whatever changes that’ll be needed to improve the team will definitely have to be monumental. A major roster upheaval will be needed, if this team is to improve along the lines that both Rod Thorn and Kiki Vanderweghe may well have envisaged. One man doesn’t a team make but if you get the right man and complement him with the right cast as teammates. Then the future of the team can presume to be bright.

New Jersey Nets 2009-10 roster

Nets Roster

2009-10 Roster
NUM PLAYER POS HT WT DOB FROM YRS
1 Rafer Alston G 6-2 175 07/24/1976 Fresno State 10
7 Tony Battie C-F 6-11 240 02/11/1976 Texas Tech 11
2 Josh Boone C 6-10 240 11/21/1984 Connecticut 3
55 Keyon Dooling G 6-3 195 05/08/1980 Missouri 9
17 Chris Douglas-Roberts G 6-7 210 01/08/1987 Memphis 1
34 Devin Harris G 6-3 190 02/27/1983 Wisconsin 5
44 Trenton Hassell F 6-5 227 03/04/1979 Austin Peay 8
22 Jarvis Hayes F 6-8 228 08/09/1981 Georgia 6
6 Courtney Lee G-F 6-5 200 10/03/1985 Western Kentucky 1
11 Brook Lopez C 7-0 265 04/01/1988 Stanford 1
14 Eduardo Najera F 6-8 235 07/11/1976 Oklahoma 9
21 Bobby Simmons F 6-6 230 06/02/1980 DePaul 7
51 Sean Williams F-C 6-10 235 09/13/1986 Boston College 2
8 Terrence Williams G-F 6-6 220 06/28/1987 Louisville R
9 Yi Jianlian F 7-0 250 10/27/1987 Shenzhen, China 2

HEAD COACH
Lawrence Frank (College – Indiana)

ASSISTANT COACHES
Tom Barrise (College – Fairleigh Dickinson)
John Loyer (College – Akron)
Doug Overton (College – LaSalle)
Roy Rogers (College – Alabama)

ASSISTANT COACH and STRENGTH-AND-CONDITIONING COACH
Rich Dalatri (College – Louisiana Tech)

ATHLETIC TRAINER
Tim Walsh (College – Upsala)


NBA Standings Atlantic Division Eastern Conference

Team W L PCT GB CONF DIV HOME ROAD L 10 STREAK
Boston 3 10 4 0.714 0.0 6-3 3-0 5-3 5-1 6-4 W 1
Toronto 6 8 0.429 4.0 4-2 0-0 4-2 2-6 4-6 L 1
Philadelphia 5 8 0.385 4.5 5-5 3-1 3-4 2-4 3-7 L 2
New York 3 10 0.231 6.5 2-8 1-2 1-7 2-3 3-7 L 1
New Jersey 0 13 0.000 9.5 0-11 0-4 0-6 0-7 0-10 L 13

NB … At the original writing of this piece , Nets’ coach, Lawrence Frank, hadn’t yet been fired by the organization. His position has since been assumed by General Manager, Kiki Vandeweghe ,on an interim basis until the end of the 2009-10 NBA season.

Posted in Basketball, NBA, New Jersey Nets, Sports | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Big Pimpin’ Dallas Style Bitches That They Are!

Posted by tophatal on December 1, 2009

Big Pimpin’ Dallas Mavericks’ Style …….Bitches That They Are !

I don’t know of any other way to suggest this but in watching the Dallas Mavericks lose to the Golden State Warriors, who only had six physically healthy players suited up. Well, it suggests everything that I’ve come to think about the Dallas Mavericks. They’re an extremely soft team, not only physically but also mentally as well. And this is epitomized by the attitude of their owner, Mark Cuban . Egotistical , narcissistic but above all critical of others when they’re not all in agreement with his thought process.

Dallas-November 24th 2009: Monta Ellis (8) of the Golden State Warriors goes up and under against Dirk Nowitzki (41) of the Dallas Mavericks during a game at the American Airlines Center on November 24, 2009 in Dallas, Texas. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Glenn James .............

Dallas-November 24th 2009: Monta Ellis (8) of the Golden State Warriors goes up and under against Dirk Nowitzki (41) of the Dallas Mavericks during a game at the American Airlines Center on November 24, 2009 in Dallas, Texas. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Glenn James .............

This Mavericks’ team is resplendent with a plethora of stars but little in the way of leadership. And that is with seasoned veterans such as Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Kidd , Jason Terry and Shawn Marion. To make matters worse, the the team is highly overpaid and has given little back in return by way of anything tangible in terms of success. This club has continually underachieved despite all of the lavish spending and the perception that it is one of the marquee teams in the NBA. The fact of the matter is, they’re a good regular season team but come the postseason they become doormat that many of the elite teams in the NBA choose to wipe their feet on.

Kris Humpheries of the Dallas Mavericks goes up for the dunk in the game against the Golden State Warriors. The Mavericks would go on to be defeated by the Warriors 111-103 in the game played at the American Airlines Center in Dallas ,Texas, on the 24th November,2009. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Glenn James …….

Last night’s game between these two Western Conference team saw the Golden State Warriors with eight players on the bench of the mandated twelve but only six ready to play. The Warriors and the Dallas Mavericks set out to play a game and let every ardent fan of the game see what the NBA will be proffering up to their patrons for the season. Well, the Warriors did little to disappoint as they completely overwhelmed the Mavericks with their resiliency and resolve as a team. Unfortunately,for the Mavericks they had no answer for the Warriors’ Monta Ellis, Anthony Morrow, Vladimir Radmanovic or their rookie sensation Steph Curry. As they went about decimating the Mavericks’ defense and made them look like very much like a D-league NBA representative
team.

Now pardon me for saying this, when your franchise is said to be worth
in excess of $ 400 million and on appearance it seems to be worth not more than a plug nickel . Then there’s a great deal to be said for the pomp and bloviated opinions of Mark Cuban and the persona of his franchise. They’ve become more accustomed to being beaten up on, more than a hooker is by her pimp ‘for not turning enough tricks’. And ‘tricks’, it appears to be something that the Mavericks haven’t been able to turn in quite some time. OK, so they made it to the postseason last year and they beat a San Antonio Spurs’ team that was missing several of its top players. But having done so, in the conference semi finals they melted like butter against a hot knife.

Stephen Curry (30) of the Golden State Warriors celebrates a win against the Dallas Mavericks during a game at the American Airlines Center on November 24, 2009 in Dallas, Texas. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Glenn James .......

Stephen Curry (30) of the Golden State Warriors celebrates a win against the Dallas Mavericks during a game at the American Airlines Center on November 24, 2009 in Dallas, Texas. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images/ Glenn James .......

Courtesy of Associated Press and Yahoo Sports


Ellis, Morrow lead Warriors past Mavericks 111-103

DALLAS (AP)—Golden State was down to eight healthy players—and used only six. Warriors coach Don Nelson wasn’t with the team as he recovers from pneumonia. Still, Monta Ellis(notes) and Stephen Curry(notes) wouldn’t let injuries or sickness become an excuse.

Ellis scored 13 of his season-high 37 points in the fourth quarter, Curry added 11 of his 18 points in the final 4 minutes and the Warriors ended Dallas’ five-game winning streak with a 111-103 victory over the short-handed Mavericks on Tuesday night.

“Coming into this game, we had nothing to lose,” said assistant coach Keith Smart, who filled in for Nelson. “The worst case is they blow us out and we move on to (Wednesday night’s game in San Antonio). But our guys have a lot of character. They played hard together and made the right decisions.”

====================================================
In order to read this article in its entirety just click unto the text link
provided.
====================================================

Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41), of Germany, loses the ball to Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2009, in Dallas. The Warriors won 111-103. picture appears courtesy of AP/Photo/ Sharon Ellman ...........

Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41), of Germany, loses the ball to Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2009, in Dallas. The Warriors won 111-103. picture appears courtesy of AP/Photo/ Sharon Ellman ...........

This season, the Dallas Mavericks appear to have started off strong but their inconsistency is already beginning to set in. The Golden State Warriors for their part are looking to take the next step and place themselves amongst the elite teams within the Western Conference. And in doing so, it would further suggest to their fans that they’re ready to show them what they’ve been missing out on for such a long time. In place of Don Nelson as coach of the team last night , there on the sidelines was his assistant, Keith Smart. Nelson was unable to participate as he was sidelined with a bout of pneumonia. His return isn’t anticipated for another week or two. Smart, for his part showed that he may well be the coach in waiting, once Nelson is ready to step down from his position as coach of the team.

The Mavericks for their part, to my mind are no closer to winning an NBA title than the Democrats are about the direction that the party now seems to be heading in.The Dallas Mavericks as an organization give all the semblance of being an organized and efficiently ran organization. But in essence,they’re only playing at being that. They’re a complete mess but Mark Cuban would rather not have you see the warts and all mess,that there is inside of his franchise.

And for Mavericks’ coach, Rick Carlisle and his assistant coaching staff of Terry Stotts, Dwayne Casey and Tom Sterner. This was hardly the type of response they’d have expected from this team with the resultant 111-103 loss to the Golden State Warriors. But it seems to be something that’s emblematic of the team and their inconsistency. They either play down to the level of an opponent or at times they’re able to play with a high degree of efficiency.There does not appear to be a happy medium for the Mavericks. Is it any wonder that they’re viewed as one of the softer teams around the NBA ? And that’s not just from a physical standpoint but also when it comes to the mental aspect of their game. It’s now becoming a view that’s being widely shared across the NBA and amongst the fans, themselves.

And for the Golden State Warriors ,though on the face of it the win might not seem that much. But having been able to defeat a team with just six healthy players from its entire roster shows that they’re not at all prepared to bow down and become one of the lesser beings within the NBA fraternity. That’s left to the likes of the Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks, New Jersey Nets and the Charlotte Bobcats. For those particular franchises, mediocrity nowadays goes hand in hand, just as much turkey and Thanksgiving are part of a solemn festivity that we can all feel comfortable with.

What do you think of the Dallas Mavericks as an NBA franchise ? Good, bad, indifferent or just simply overrated just as their counterpart in the NFL – the Dallas Cowboys ?

NB Take time to participate in the poll below.

==================================================

‘Big Pimpin’ by Jay-z feat’g UGK .

Posted in Basketball, Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, NBA, Sports | Tagged: , , , , | 1 Comment »

The Basketball Oracle Power Rankings: Edition #1

Posted by Joey Mills on November 29, 2009

Unfortunately we weren’t very active for the first couple of weeks of the season, but now we are back and here are the first batch of Power Rankings!

The Ron Artest Effect

Last season, the Lakers were a fairly mediocre defensive team.  They would constantly be scoring and allowing over 100 points a game while usually playing respectable defense the other teams’ best player, but allowing a role player to have a career night.  But with the addition of Ron Artest, the Lakers are #1 in opponent FG% and opponent 3P FG% this season, while allowing teams to score only 96 points a game while playing at a fast pace.  The main reason for this is the addition of Ron Artest, with a little credit going to the return of Andrew Bynum.  Artest has been one of the best one-on-one defenders ever in his career, and this season is bringing a defensive intensity to the usually offensive-minded Los Angeles Lakers.  Ron Artest has shut down every star player the Lakers have gone against this season, other than Carmelo Anthony, but that should change the next time they face off against the Nuggets.  Artests’ defense is one of the key factors as to why the Lakers are #1 in the power rankings of many websites.

Rank Team Record Description
1 Los Angeles Lakers  12-3  The Lakers have been cruising as of late, and should continue for at least another week or two with their easy, home-loaded schedule.
2 Orlando Magic 13-4  The Magic earned the #2 spot with a Turkey Day blowout of the former #1 seeded Hawks in Atlanta.
3 Phoenix Suns 13-3  The Suns have been the surprise team this season with the best record in the NBA, but they lost badly to the Hawks and Lakers, and probably won’t be able to keep this excellent play up for the remainder of the season.
4 Atlanta Hawks 12-4  The Hawks were another surprise team this season, but a bad loss to the Magic puts them right back below the Celtics and Magic in the standings.  Though, they did have an impressive win in Boston.
5  Boston Celtics 12-4  Struggling early this season, but should turn it around soon and be back at the top of the East in a 3-horse race with the Lakers and Magic for best record.
6 Denver Nuggets 12-4  The Nuggets proved they are a contender with their blowout of the Lakers in Denver, but they have had an extremely easy schedule, as well as the easiest 5-game stretch in NBA history (New Jersey, @ Minnesota, New York, Minnesota, Golden State).
7 San Antonio Spurs 8-6  The Spurs started off the season badly, but have caught fire the past week and are riding a 4-game winning streak.
8 Cleveland Cavaliers 12-5  The Cavaliers are disappointing this season, and it appears that Shaquille O’Neal is not a good fit for them.  They need a Chris Bosh or David West to win a ring for the king.
9  Dallas Mavericks 12-5   The Mavericks have had impressive wins this season, but they need to consistently be able to beat good teams.
10 Portland Trailblazers 12-7  Same problem as the Mavericks.
11  Miami Heat 9-6  An impressive win of the Magic, and a disappointing loss to the Wizards.
12 Oklahoma City Thunder  9-7  The Thunder have been very good this season (for their standards) and have an above .500 record, but don’t expect it to be that way at the end of the season.
13  Utah Jazz 9-7  The Jazz are consistently inconsistent.
14  Charlotte Bobcats 7-9  The Bobcats have been a fantastic defensive team this season, but they just can’t get enough points on the offensive end.  They need a 25+ ppg scorer in order to have any chance in the playoffs.
15 New Orleans Hornets 7-9  The Hornets are 4-3 under new head coach Jeff Bower, but expect that number to increase once Chris Paul is back.
16  Sacramento Kings 7-8  The Sacramento Kings are a legitimate Top 16 team for the first time in a long time.  Impressive at home with a 6-2 record, but terrible on the road with a 1-6 record.
17 Milwaukee Bucks 8-7  The Bucks started out the season as one of the top teams with an 8-3 record, but since then they have only lost.
18 Chicago Bulls 6-8  The Bulls are on a bad 4-game slide due to a tough West coast trip.
19 Houston Rockets  8-8  Started off the season strong, but have faltered lately.
20 Indiana Pacers  6-8  The Pacers need to make some major changes, because no matter how good Danny Granger gets, they will never go past the 1st round.
21 Toronto Raptors   7-10  The Raptors start out every season expected to be a top team with a strong core of Chris Bosh, Jose Calderon, Andrea Bargnani, and Jermaine O’Neal/Hedo Turkoglu, but every season they disappoint.
22 Memphis Grizzlies  6-10  The Iverson experiment failed badly, but at least now they can give more minutes to young soon-to-be stars OJ Mayo and Mike Conley.
23 L.A. Clippers 7-10  They beat the Detroit Pistons, big deal?
24 Washington Wizards 5-10  Gilbert Arenas + Antawn Jamison + Mike Miller + Caron Butler = 5 wins and 10 losses? At least they have beaten the Cavaliers.
25 Golden State Warriors 5-10  The Warriors are banged up right now, so you can’t expect them to be able to win games.
26  Philadelphia 76ers 5-11  How bad are they playing right now? Well, they are the one team in the league that really SHOULD sign Allen Iverson.  They’re in trouble.
27  Detroit Pistons 5-11  Of the 28 teams in the NBA, they have the longest losing streak at 7 games.  In case you didn’t know, the Timberwolves and Nets were officially merged into the D-League last night.
28 New York Knicks 3-13  The worst team in the league right now.
29  Minnesota Timberwolves  1-15  Well, they are #1 in my D-League power rankings.
30 New Jersey Nets 0-16  Well, they are #2 in my D-League power rankings.

Posted in Power Rankings | Tagged: , , , , , , | 2 Comments »

The Basketball Oracle Top 10: Centers

Posted by Joey Mills on November 28, 2009

The Center position in basketball is the arguably the most important and dominant, but it is also the weakest in the current NBA.  In the NBA today, there are very few dominant low-post scorers at the center position.  In fact, the majority of the star low post players like Zach Randolph, Pau Gasol, Tim Duncan, and Al Jefferson are Power Forwards.  It can be argued that the only pure dominant low-post center in the NBA right now is the 22-year old Andrew Bynum of the Los Angeles Lakers.  Now, time for the actual rankings.  Yao Ming has been excluded due to his injury.

Just Missed Out: Andris Biedrins, Golden State Warriors; Kenrick Perkins, Boston Celtics

10. Greg Oden, Portland Trailblazers

Oden gets the nod of Kendrick Perkins and Andris Biedrins because he is a better scorer than both, and a better rebounder than Perkins.  Biedrins may have the advantage in rebounds, but that is because he plays on a team that shoots a lot and causes a lot of possessions.  Oden will probably never be an all-star, but he will most likely develop into a 14 ppg, 12 rpg, and 2 bpg guy.

9. Andrew Bogut, Milwaukee Bucks

Bogut is a solid NBA center, not a franchise player, and not a scrub.  He can rebound in double-digits every game, as well as scoring in double-digits every game.  He is like a slightly better Greg Oden because he is a superior rebounder and has a more polished offensive game.

8. Tyson Chandler, Charlotte Bobcats

Chandler isn’t as good without Chris Paul setting him up for alley-oops, but what puts him above the other centers is the fact that he is a solid rebounder, and is really athletic which gives him opportunities the other centers don’t have.  He still has not post-game, but he can still get offensive opportunities with alley-oops, the pick and roll, and putbacks.

7. Marc Gasol, Memphis Grizzlies

This may come as a surprise to most, but Gasol has proved that he can be a strong rebounder and scorer at the center position.  His offensive game is near the top in the league for centers, and he is also a great rebounder.  He isn’t as good as his brother, Pau, but he is creating his own name in the NBA as one of the top centers.

6. Emeka Okafor, New Orleans Hornets

Okafor was drafted 2nd overall behind Dwight Howard, but so far in the NBA he has not even come close to being as good as Dwight Howard.  But he has established himself has a guaranteed double-double every night.  He doesn’t have a lot of offensive moves, but he has a decent mid-range jumper and can score in the post better than most centers.

5. Shaquille O’Neal, Cleveland Cavaliers

Shaquille O’Neal may be old and slow, but he still has the ability to be a good low-post scorer and rebounder, as evidenced by his 08-09 season with the Phoenix Suns.  This season he is struggling with a new team and injuries, but if he can get in rythme and healthy he will be a good pickup for the Cavs, as long as he stays out of LeBron’s way.

4.  Brook Lopez, New Jersey Nets

Brook Lopez is only in his 2nd season in the NBA, and he hasn’t done anything special.  But, he has proved that he can be a consistent 14 ppg and 9 rpg guy in the NBA.  He also has a nice shooting touch and decent post-up game.  Lopez plays for the worst team in the league, which is part of the reason he doesn’t get any recognition, but he is the only big man they have that can produce on a consistent basis.  He will only continue to improve and should be a Top 3 center next season.

 3. Chris Kaman, Los Angeles Clippers

When healthy, Chris Kaman is one of the best offensive centers and rebounders in the league.  He has a solid mid-range jumper, and is a good low-post and high-post scorer.  Injuries have hindered him the last couple of seasons, but in the 07-08 season he averaged a very impressive 15.7 ppg and 12.7 rpg.

Read the rest of this entry »

Posted in The Basketball Oracle Top 10 | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 17 Comments »

Report: Stephen Jackson Wants Trade to Contender

Posted by Joey Mills on August 29, 2009

The Warriors aren’t going anywhere, so this isn’t surprising.  I think the Cavaliers would be the best fit for him.  I have a trade idea that I think would get the deal done.  The Warriors would trade Stephen Jackson and would receive Delonte West, J.J. Hickson, and Darnell Jackson.

ESPN: Golden State Warriors forward Stephen Jackson says he has requested a trade and prefers to be dealt to the Cleveland Cavaliers or any of the NBA’s three teams in Texas.

Jackson’s wishes are rooted in a desire to play for a team that consistently makes the postseason, he says, something the Warriors have done only once in the past 15 seasons.

“At this point, I’m 31 years old. I have four or five years left,” Jackson told Dime Magazine on Friday. “I want to be in a situation where I can continually be in the playoffs and get another ring. So that’s where my mind is at now.”

Jackson, speaking to the magazine in New York during a promotional event for a shoe line, said the status of his demand is pending.

“It’s not about a decision I made,” he told Dime Magazine. “It’s just things are in the air right now. I really can’t get too much into it right now.”

When prompted with a question from the event’s host about the Warriors’ playoff chances, Jackson, who was attending the event with former teammate Al Harrington, told the crowd: “I don’t think I’ll be a Warrior next year. I’m looking to leave.” Read the rest of this entry »

Posted in Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, Rockets, Spurs, Trade, Warriors | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment »

I Was A Contender But I Could’ve Been So Much More ……….

Posted by tophatal on August 11, 2009

One can’t but help feel sorry for Lakers’ former assistant coach Kurt Rambis . They say ‘….. everyone’s deserving of a second bite of the apple’ . But in Kurt’s case that wasn’t about to be forthcoming , as far as the coaching position was, with the Los Angeles Lakers . Phil Jackson remains an irremovable force and not until he’s ready to finally call it quits. Will there be someone appointed by the organization to step into the fray and take over from the legendary coach.

Rambis seen here in his duties as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Lakers speaks with former player Chris Mihm. picture appears courtesy of los angeles times / Alex Gallardo .............

Rambis seen here in his duties as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Lakers speaks with former player Chris Mihm. picture appears courtesy of los angeles times / Alex Gallardo .............

For Rambis , a titlist , as a player and as an assistant coach with the franchise where he made his name. He’s now agreed in principle to assume the reins from fired former coach, Kevin McHale of the Minnesota Timberwolves . And it’d remiss to suggest that Rambis hasn’t got his work cut out for him in trying to turn around the fortunes of a franchise , that has seemingly lost direction.

And for a franchise coming off a horrendous (24-58) season . Wherein, they were 34 games under .500 and finished 30 games behind the Northwest Division winning Denver Nuggets . To suggest that their season was one of underachievement wouldn’t do the franchise any justice at all. Their season bordered on sheer ineptitude and mediocrity ! And much of the travails within the organization stemmed from the lack of authority and communication between McHale and that of the Timberwolves’ hierarchy , once he assumed the role as the team’s coach.

Randy Foye of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks to evade the defensive play of the Celtics' Paul Pierce during a regular season game played at the TD Banknorth Center in Boston , Massachussetts,. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Elsa .................

Randy Foye of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks to evade the defensive play of the Celtics' Paul Pierce during a regular season game played at the TD Banknorth Center in Boston , Massachussetts,. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Elsa .................

And for McHale , though his dismissal wasn’t at all a complete surprise. To apportion blame solely upon his shoulders would be indeed unfair. The front office and in particular the actions of GM David Kahn and owner, Glen Taylor , left a great deal to be desired , with the their all too lack of authority and forthrightness. Nevermind the fact that as an owner Taylor became more of a spendthrift , rather than loosening the purse strings when it came to pursuing roster personnel that’d stengthen the team and franchise, as a whole . And make them somewhat more competitive on the field of play.

For the incoming Rambis , he’ll now have to assess the talent that’s in place. Not only from the roster personnel wise. But also when it comes to the coaching staff , therein. As it’s customary for an incoming coach to always want to bring in his coaching staff. Merely, from the fact that he’s use to working with them. Somehow , in this case I don’t feel that Taylor or Kahn will be that magnanimous. So it would like this will be an ongoing process for Rambis and his assessment of the roster and incumbent coaching staff.

T'wolves' GM David Kahn and the team's owner Glen Taylor answer questions from the convened press at a team press conference. picture appears courtesy of espn.com/ ap/photo/ Martin Geshell ...................

T'wolves' GM David Kahn and the team's owner Glen Taylor answer questions from the convened press at a team press conference. picture appears courtesy of espn.com/ ap/photo/ Martin Geshell ...................

The nucleus of this Timberwolves’ roster is affixed with some tremendous young talent . But on appearance alone, one can see that it’s completely devoid of veteran leadership. That’d create a calming influence for some of the young novices on this roster. Their most experienced player is former NBA journeyman Chucky Atkins . Highly unlikely, that he’d be the sort of player that Rambis would be turning to , to lead this young roster. But make of it what you will . As someone has to .

Posted in Basketball, Los Angeles Lakers, Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA, Sports | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments »

I’m No Punk I Just Want To Be Paid

Posted by tophatal on August 7, 2009

Coming off something of a disappointing season and the losing of a series in the Eastern Conference Finals in the NBA . One can well understand the urgency of Danny Ferry as GM of the Cleveland Cavaliers . Ferry knows that in order for the franchise to remain relevant and to be still in the good graces of their superstar , LeBron James . The GM will have to surround the player with talent that’s commensurate to James’ liking and his talent.

LeBron James (left) and Shaquille O'Neal seen here prior to the 2006 NBA All Star Game . picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ L . Otero ............

LeBron James (left) and Shaquille O'Neal seen here prior to the 2006 NBA All Star Game . picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ L . Otero ............

Now , while many might question the team’s acquisition of Shaquille O’Neal from the Phoenix Suns via a blockbuster trade, as seemingly is the custom concerning O’Neal. As of late the only thing that one can associate with O’Neal and his game . May well be the fact that he’s still somewhat quicker on his feet than that of former star of the ” The Golden Girls ” , Betty White . Agility and guile are no longer a part of Shaq’s repertoire. But Ferry’s presence of mind may well have been , that in order to keep his erstwhile star happy, he had to do something extravagant. O’Neal’s game though with flashes of brilliance still, as he deems fit to use it. It’s a long way off from what it once was. In Phoenix , he was ill-suited to the team’s up tempo style. And seeing him lumbering up and down the US Airways Arena like a pregnant pachyderm wasn’t at all how one likes to remember the once dominant superstar.

In the midst of this all we now have to remember that James is in the final year of his contract. And with the gluttony of elite free agents due in 2010 . It’s understandable that the player is hedging his bets at present. He’s stated that it is his wish to remain a Cavaliers’ player at present. But it wasn’t so long ago , he was stating that he could see himself spending his entire career with the franchise. That may well have been pleasing to ear of the franchise’s owner, Dan Gilbert . Bearing in mind, that Gilbert got a large cash infusion by selling a minority stake in the franchise, to a prominent Chinese businessman. And he no doubt views having James within the fold , will make the franchise much more of marketing tool for the Far Eastern market. And at the same time raise both theirs and that of James’ visibility, there also in that particular market.

James (center) seen here with Rich Paul (left) and and former high school teammate Brandon Weems (right) at an event for the launch of the new Nike Air Max LeBron VII shoes , held at the Ed Davis Community Center in Akron , Ohio . picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Jason Miller ................

James (center) seen here with Rich Paul (left) and and former high school teammate Brandon Weems (right) at an event for the launch of the new Nike Air Max LeBron VII shoes , held at the Ed Davis Community Center in Akron , Ohio . picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Jason Miller ................

Clearly this’ll be a make or break year , for not only James but also for O’Neal and the Cavaliers’ franchise. And if they’re to have any semblance of success. Then it’ll not only James and O’Neall but also the rest of the team to makes themselves all the more prominant in that success on the field of play. The nucleus of the team will be built around James , Mo Williams , Zydrunas Ilgauskas , Anderson Varejao and Daniel Gibson. But much of that’ll also be predicated upon the benchwarmers also contributing to the productivity of the team as well.

And for coach Mike Brown , he too can ill afford to have this team underachieve this season. Anything short of an appearance in the Confernce Finals . And more likely than not , he’ll be out of his position as coach of the Cavaliers. The situation for the franchise is as grave as that !

Source Yahoo Sports in conjunction with AP :

LeBron says he wants to keep his options open

By Tom Withers AP Sports Writer

AKRON, Ohio-(AP) LeBron James is unlikely to accept a contract extension from the Cleveland Cavaliers until after the 2009-10 season, when he can become a free agent.

At an event to unveil his latest signature sneaker for Nike , James , who has given no indication as he plans to leave the Cavs, made his strongest comment yet about to his future. The NBA’s reigning MVP said he signed a contract in 2006 with an option so he could have more flexibility once it expires . cont’d …………….

_________________________________________________________
In order to read this article in its entirety just click on the text headlined link shown above

________________________________________________________

In no uncertain terms, anything less than appearance in either the conference or NBA Finals. And a win of the latter and the probability will be that James will depart from the franchise , where he’s made it his home for the last six years. And as much as it might anguish the Cavaliers’ fans. The player has done as much as he possibly can, given the resources made available to him. That being said when one considers that this time around he’ll have O’Neal in his corner. If he should fall short of what had been previously accomplished by both Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade , with Shaq as a partner . Then the daggers may well come out and questions’ll be asked if James is now merely cashing it all in , merely for the riches from a franchise willing to shell out a king’s ransom for his services.

Global icon or not at the end of the day if it ain’t about the success. Then it’s got to be about those lovely bones !

Posted in Basketball, Cleveland Cavaliers, NBA, Sports | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments »

« Previous Entries