Nba 2006-2007

[dmbphan041]

Now that's the draft's over, it's time for this thread. IMO teams to watch for would be Portland, Minnesota, Miami, Chicago and maybe even Charlotte

The Raptors even with all their good moves still won't make the playoffs

oh and SG Fred Jones of the Pacers is headed to Toronto in a 3 year deal worth $11 mil (9.6 ppg and 2.5 rpg last season)

[UNC41]

Out of your teams to watch Miami, Chicago and maybe Minnesota are the only teams I see in the playoffs.

This year it comes down to Dallas, San Antonio and Phoenix in the West. Miami will get competition from Cleveland, Chicago and Detroit in the East, but they are the class of that conference IMO.

[brydro]

Out of your teams to watch Miami, Chicago and maybe Minnesota are the only teams I see in the playoffs.

This year it comes down to Dallas, San Antonio and Phoenix in the West. Miami will get competition from Cleveland, Chicago and Detroit in the East, but they are the class of that conference IMO.

I agree with everything you said.

But I will say that Charlotte will be much more improved as well. Team to watch? No, not yet. They will probably be fun to watch. But I think they will suprise some people this year. :thumbsup

[Trippin4136]

I gotta say, little early for this thread no? At the NFL is gearing up camps this week and its closer to preseason games than we think. NBA season just ended 3 weeks ago.

[Tiduwho]

Bulls should be right in the thick of things in the East, and I hope the Suns go all the way in the West.

[dmbphan041]

yea but summer league just ended, the draft was a while ago, and the FIBA championships start in like 2 weeks

[UNC41]

I agree with everything you said.

But I will say that Charlotte will be much more improved as well. Team to watch? No, not yet. They will probably be fun to watch. But I think they will suprise some people this year. :thumbsup

It's too bad the only way I'll see Charlotte play is if I get League Pass. If Okafor and May, who tore up Vegas a couple weeks ago, can stay healthy I could see the Bobcats on the playoff bubble in the East.

[brydro]

It's too bad the only way I'll see Charlotte play is if I get League Pass. If Okafor and May, who tore up Vegas a couple weeks ago, can stay healthy I could see the Bobcats on the playoff bubble in the East.


Well, it's kind of cool being a NY transport or Damn Yankee depending on where you are from..lol. To come to Charlotte, and have a young, and talented team 10 minutes from my house. As opposed to being a knicks fan...:lol

I think I might try to get a small season ticket plan this year. Last year I went to a few and it was cool. Brand new arena which is beautiful.

[Bartndrpleez]

Oh man, you started the thread and didn't even capitalize the B and A! ;)

The Heat will have basically all of their 15 strong back again next season. So it seems anything short of another title will be somewhat of a disappointment. Chicago is going to be good though. They challenged the Heat in that first round and now with Ben Wallace they will be the new #2 in the East.

I see the East as follows: 1. Heat 2. Bulls 3. Pistons 4. Nets 5. Cavs 6. Wizards 7. Pacers 8. Magic

[UNC41]

Well, it's kind of cool being a NY transport or Damn Yankee depending on where you are from..lol. To come to Charlotte, and have a young, and talented team 10 minutes from my house. As opposed to being a knicks fan...:lol

I think I might try to get a small season ticket plan this year. Last year I went to a few and it was cool. Brand new arena which is beautiful.

Felton is my boy. I envy that you get to watch him regularly. He's a lot closer to Chris Paul than most people think.

[UNC41]

Oh man, you started the thread and didn't even capitalize the B and A! ;)

The Heat will have basically all of their 15 strong back again next season. So it seems anything short of another title will be somewhat of a disappointment. Chicago is going to be good though. They challenged the Heat in that first round and now with Ben Wallace they will be the new #2 in the East.

I see the East as follows: 1. Heat 2. Bulls 3. Pistons 4. Nets 5. Cavs 6. Wizards 7. Pacers 8. Magic

While Chicago made improvements I don't see them knocking off Miami. They'll be good, but Wallace isn't in a better situation than in Detroit.

Billups>Hinrich
Rip=Gordon
Teyshawn>Nocconi/Deng (whichever one starts)
Sheed>PJ Brown
Nazr<Big Ben

I think a team from the West will win it all, but if an Eastern team is going to win it'll be Miami.

[thebigv]

While Chicago made improvements I don't see them knocking off Miami. They'll be good, but Wallace isn't in a better situation than in Detroit.

Billups>Hinrich
Rip=Gordon
Teyshawn>Nocconi/Deng (whichever one starts)
Sheed>PJ Brown
Nazr<Big Ben

I think a team from the West will win it all, but if an Eastern team is going to win it'll be Miami.


You're spot on with this analysis of the Pistons. Ben Wallace has just made Chicago play 4v5 on one side of the court. You have to have 4 other great shooters to do that, the Pistons did. The Bulls have one. Not going to happen. While their defense will certainly decline, playing Nazr and McDyess consistently will improve their offense remarkedly. They could easily play a style similar to the Suns and actually win a championship with it.

[dmbmuskie]

I'll take the Spurs right now. Unless you have had plantar fasciaitis you have no idea how hard it must have been for Tim Duncan to play last year. It took me 6 months to get rid of it, and there were some days I could barely walk. I cannot imagine trying to play an 82 game season where every step hurts.

[Tiduwho]

You're spot on with this analysis of the Pistons. Ben Wallace has just made Chicago play 4v5 on one side of the court. You have to have 4 other great shooters to do that, the Pistons did. The Bulls have one. Not going to happen. While their defense will certainly decline, playing Nazr and McDyess consistently will improve their offense remarkedly. They could easily play a style similar to the Suns and actually win a championship with it.

Lol, you serious Clark? The Bulls have been playing 4 on 5 for years, at least now they're 5th guy can play longer than the 1st half without fouling out. Not to mention he can rebound better and has better defense. Wallace is an improvement on offense for the Bulls.

The Pistons could easily play like the Suns? Just like that? You can't be serious..

[thebigv]

Lol, you serious Clark? The Bulls have been playing 4 on 5 for years, at least now they're 5th guy can play longer than the 1st half without fouling out. Not to mention he can rebound better and has better defense. Wallace is an improvement on offense for the Bulls.

The Pistons could easily play like the Suns? Just like that? You can't be serious..


You're an idiot if you think Ben Wallace will help anywhere on offense. Have you ever seen him shoot? I won't even bring up a god damn free throw.

In fact, have you ever seen the Pistons play? They could easily play a similar up-tempo, quick shooting game like the Suns. They have 4 1/2 guys that can shoot the ball lights out, when Flip isn't playing mind games with them.

[41ravens]

the suns will win the finals this year. that is all for now.

[1eyed_jack]

You're spot on with this analysis of the Pistons. Ben Wallace has just made Chicago play 4v5 on one side of the court. You have to have 4 other great shooters to do that, the Pistons did. The Bulls have one. Not going to happen. While their defense will certainly decline, playing Nazr and McDyess consistently will improve their offense remarkedly. They could easily play a style similar to the Suns and actually win a championship with it.


seems to me the bulls did pretty good last year while playing 4 on 5 offensively. tyson chandler wasn't exactly what anyone would call a threat. come to think of it, he was a poor mans ben wallace. and now we have ben wallace :lol

[UNC41]

You're an idiot if you think Ben Wallace will help anywhere on offense. Have you ever seen him shoot? I won't even bring up a god damn free throw.

In fact, have you ever seen the Pistons play? They could easily play a similar up-tempo, quick shooting game like the Suns. They have 4 1/2 guys that can shoot the ball lights out, when Flip isn't playing mind games with them.

We're going to disagree on something eventually. Ben Wallace and offensive upgrade don't belong anywhere in the same sentence.

I don't think the Pistons can play Phoenix ball to the same degree, but they can play a similar style and still have a very solid defense. The reason they won't be able to be as up-tempo is because Billups won't be able to do everything Nash can, but he can come fairly close. Teyshawn is about as close to you get to cloning Boris Diaw, Sheed is better at being Shawn Marion than Shawn Marion is when he wants to be and Rip Hamilton is Raja Bell's career ceiling.

[dmbmuskie]

Sheed is better at being Shawn Marion than Shawn Marion is when he wants to be

You cannot be serious.

[thebigv]

So, let me get this straight. You're saying that Ben Wallace is an offensive improvement over Tyson Chandler? Just want to verify that statement.

[UNC41]

You cannot be serious.

Yup, and I'm not the only one. I've read multiple times from players, coaches and analysts how he is one of the 15 most talented players in the league. Getting that talent to come through on a consistent basis has been his problem, which is where the when he wants to be comes from.

[thebigv]

You're exactly right, Bryan. My buddy that works for the Pacers absolutely hates him because of the big game shots that he makes. While he might have the ability to cost you an opportunity to win a game, he makes up for it in his flat out ability to play.

[1eyed_jack]

So, let me get this straight. You're saying that Ben Wallace is an offensive improvement over Tyson Chandler? Just want to verify that statement.


nope, i mean they both averaged about the same last season, wallace being a little higher but playing more minutes. i'm saying that with or without wallace we're playing 4 on 5 offensively. only now we have a defender that's way better then chandler. and lets not forget, a good defensive player means your offense doesn't have to score as much anyway.

[dmbmuskie]

No matter how talented he is he's a head case who obviously doesn't put forth 100% every night, which I believe Marrion does. I'd take Marrion hands down.

[Tiduwho]

nope, i mean they both averaged about the same last season, wallace being a little higher but playing more minutes. i'm saying that with or without wallace we're playing 4 on 5 offensively. only now we have a defender that's way better then chandler. and lets not forget, a good defensive player means your offense doesn't have to score as much anyway.

This is exactly what I meant. I figured my exaggerration would get the point across, because for some reason thebigv didn't realize the Bulls have been playing 4 on 5 for years, only Chandler was even worse on offense, and obviously not even comparable on defense. And couldn't play longer than 20 minutes anyways because of foul trouble.

[Tiduwho]

No matter how talented he is he's a head case who obviously doesn't put forth 100% every night, which I believe Marrion does. I'd take Marrion hands down.

Same here, for sure.

[jmudmbphan]

The bulls still have no offense coming from the post....I see them improving, but not to the point where they are serious threat to go deep in the playoffs

[UNC41]

No matter how talented he is he's a head case who obviously doesn't put forth 100% every night, which I believe Marrion does. I'd take Marrion hands down.

So would I.

[dmbmuskie]

I feel like Peter Gammon when discussing the NBA right now because every thought is full of the word if. Miami should repeat if Shaq stops deteriorating so quickly. Phoenix should win if Amare is back. San Antonio should win if Ducan is back. Dallas should win if they find more toughness. The Lakers will win if Lamar Odom turns into Scottie Pippen. etc.

[1eyed_jack]

The bulls still have no offense coming from the post....I see them improving, but not to the point where they are serious threat to go deep in the playoffs

they gave the heat a good series last year so i don't see how adding the best defensive player in basketball doesn't make you serious. not to mention the natural progression of the bulls players. they have a young team and each season they get that much better.

ben gordons numbers last year improved as the season went on including playing pretty solid in the post season

luol deng's numbers from 05 to 06 were improved, not to mention playing his best ball late in the season

if nocioni contiues to grow the way he has we can expect 18 points and 8 rebounds night in night out from him

and hinrich, the floor veteran believe it or not, has another year under his belt in the offense. his decision making is only getting better and better.

[UNC41]

they gave the heat a good series last year so i don't see how adding the best defensive player in basketball doesn't make you serious. not to mention the natural progression of the bulls players. they have a young team and each season they get that much better.

ben gordons numbers last year improved as the season went on including playing pretty solid in the post season

luol deng's numbers from 05 to 06 were improved, not to mention playing his best ball late in the season

if nocioni contiues to grow the way he has we can expect 18 points and 8 rebounds night in night out from him

and hinrich, the floor veteran believe it or not, has another year under his belt in the offense. his decision making is only getting better and better.

I think Artest is the best overall defender in the NBA due to his on-ball skills, but Wallace is No. 2. The Bulls are definately either No. 2 or No. 3 in the East. I can't see them taking the Heat in a 7 game series this year and think they are one year away.

[dmbphan041]

Oh man, you started the thread and didn't even capitalize the B and A! ;)

The Heat will have basically all of their 15 strong back again next season. So it seems anything short of another title will be somewhat of a disappointment. Chicago is going to be good though. They challenged the Heat in that first round and now with Ben Wallace they will be the new #2 in the East.

I see the East as follows: 1. Heat 2. Bulls 3. Pistons 4. Nets 5. Cavs 6. Wizards 7. Pacers 8. Magic

you dont understand how pissed that actually makes me, i feel like such a tool

[dmbphan041]

hmmmm

Raptors Sign Free Agent Jorge Garbajosa


(July 24, 2006) -- The Toronto Raptors announced Monday they have signed free agent forward Jorge Garbajosa (Hor-hay Gar-ba-hosa) to a multi-year contract. Per team policy, financial details were not disclosed.

Garbajosa has plenty of experience playing with Jose Calderon on the Spanish National Team. (Getty Images)

“Jorge Garbajosa has contributed toward winning at every stop in his professional career,” said Bryan Colangelo, president and general manager of the Raptors. “We anticipate he will bring experience, leadership and toughness to this basketball team.”

Garbajosa, 6-foot-9, 245 pounds, earned a number of honours during his successful European playing career, including 2005 and 2006 Spanish Cup Finals MVP, 2004-05 ACB League Best Five, and 2003 Eurobasket.com Player of the Year and Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague First Team. He led his teams to two Spanish National Cups, one Spanish National Championship, two Italian National Cups, two Italian National Championships, two Italian Supercups, a Saporta Cup and a Spanish Junior Championship.

Garbajosa played the past two seasons with Unicaja Malaga (Spain), helping them to the 2005-06 ACB League championship and Spanish National Cup. He was in the Top 15 in scoring (14.9) and rebounding (6.9) in the Euroleague last season, and averaged 13.3 points and 6.4 rebounds in 42 Spanish League outings, shooting 55 per cent from the field and 81 per cent at the line.

Garbajosa played four seasons (2000-04) with Benetton Treviso (Italy) under Raptors Vice President and Assistant General Manager Maurizio Gheradini and Phoenix Suns Head Coach Mike D’Antoni. He won two National Cups, two Super Cups and two National Championships with Benetton. He averaged 13.8 points, 6.7 rebounds and a Euroleague-best 2.85 steals en route to 2002-03 All-Euroleague First Team honours.

Garbajosa began his career playing with Tau Vitoria (Spain) from 1995-2000. He has also represented Spain in two Olympics (2000 and 2004) and one World Championship (2002), where he was a teammate of Raptors guard Jose Calderon.





Also, why haven't the Raptors signed P.J. Tucker yet?

[Franchize41]

hmmmm

Raptors Sign Free Agent Jorge Garbajosa


(July 24, 2006) -- The Toronto Raptors announced Monday they have signed free agent forward Jorge Garbajosa (Hor-hay Gar-ba-hosa) to a multi-year contract. Per team policy, financial details were not disclosed.

Garbajosa has plenty of experience playing with Jose Calderon on the Spanish National Team. (Getty Images)

“Jorge Garbajosa has contributed toward winning at every stop in his professional career,” said Bryan Colangelo, president and general manager of the Raptors. “We anticipate he will bring experience, leadership and toughness to this basketball team.”

Garbajosa, 6-foot-9, 245 pounds, earned a number of honours during his successful European playing career, including 2005 and 2006 Spanish Cup Finals MVP, 2004-05 ACB League Best Five, and 2003 Eurobasket.com Player of the Year and Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague First Team. He led his teams to two Spanish National Cups, one Spanish National Championship, two Italian National Cups, two Italian National Championships, two Italian Supercups, a Saporta Cup and a Spanish Junior Championship.

Garbajosa played the past two seasons with Unicaja Malaga (Spain), helping them to the 2005-06 ACB League championship and Spanish National Cup. He was in the Top 15 in scoring (14.9) and rebounding (6.9) in the Euroleague last season, and averaged 13.3 points and 6.4 rebounds in 42 Spanish League outings, shooting 55 per cent from the field and 81 per cent at the line.

Garbajosa played four seasons (2000-04) with Benetton Treviso (Italy) under Raptors Vice President and Assistant General Manager Maurizio Gheradini and Phoenix Suns Head Coach Mike D’Antoni. He won two National Cups, two Super Cups and two National Championships with Benetton. He averaged 13.8 points, 6.7 rebounds and a Euroleague-best 2.85 steals en route to 2002-03 All-Euroleague First Team honours.

Garbajosa began his career playing with Tau Vitoria (Spain) from 1995-2000. He has also represented Spain in two Olympics (2000 and 2004) and one World Championship (2002), where he was a teammate of Raptors guard Jose Calderon.





Also, why haven't the Raptors signed P.J. Tucker yet?

Garbajosa agreed with the Raptors back in June but couldnt sign then. Now with Bargnani, Calderon, Slokar signing a couple days ago, Garbajosa, Parker who played in Israel last year we might as well be a damn european league team. We better sign Tucker too, I like the kid

EDIT: I forgot Nesterovic and Sow too :lol

[dmbphan041]

Garbajosa agreed with the Raptors back in June but couldnt sign then. Now with Bargnani, Calderon, Slokar signing a couple days ago, Garbajosa, Parker who played in Israel last year we might as well be a damn european league team. We better sign Tucker too, I like the kid

we signed him? sweet!

thoughts on the almost fred jones signing?

http://www.nba.com/news/311125.html

e: I dunno personally I love it, Toronto's an international city, and this just proves it.

ee: I just love me some Pop Sow

[Franchize41]

we signed him? sweet!

thoughts on the almost fred jones signing?

http://www.nba.com/news/311125.html

e: I dunno personally I love it, Toronto's an international city, and this just proves it.

ee: I just love me some Pop Sow

he hasnt officially signed, just agreed to a deal. If the price is right Id like to see a spark plug like Jones in Toronto. Whats the status of Sow's neck anyways?

[dmbphan041]

last i heard surgery went well, didnt hear about when he'd be back, here's hopin he'll be ok for opening night

[Franchize41]

last i heard surgery went well, didnt hear about when he'd be back, here's hopin he'll be ok for opening night

I hope he comes back healthy. He was our best guy to play the 5 spot last year

[dmbphan041]

I hope he comes back healthy. He was our best guy to play the 5 spot last year

thank you! someone who agree's with me!

[Franchize41]

thank you! someone who agree's with me!

well that also wasnt saying much, but i loved the scrappy efforts he had. I like him more than what nesterovic brings

[dmbphan041]

I want us to send Woods down to the D-league (cause no one in their right mind would sign him)

it'll be interesting to see what Hoffa does with the mormons

[Dancing Ants]

i think the mavs have done OK in off season so far. Croshere's ok, Buckner likes playing here and can hit the 3 and play perimeter (which Griffin can't), and getting Anthony Johnson from Indiana will help too. I'm getting excited again.

[justinandimcool]

Kobe Bryant will average 29-7-7 and the Lakers will win the NBA championship. That is all for now.






:lorraine



To be honest I think this is the Suns' year. I hope not, but they've got all the right pieces now.

[Darksideofoz]

One more thing about the Bulls, I will not rule out seeing them dropping their first 5 games or going on a bad slump at some point in the season. But they will be a top team in the east.


Charlotte is putting pieces in the place for the future. They're team is full of college All-Americans and they have an arena full of money (not fans) to spend on free agents. I'd love to see Larry Brown add to growing Carolina Blue that the Bobcats have been bleeding, but doubt it will happen with the team so young.

I'm really curious to see what the former Charlotte team, the New Orleans/OKC Hornets do this year. George Shinn really openned up his wallet and made deals that i think surprised everyone.

The Knicks will, oh man, i don't maybe the fans will riot and burn down the Garden.

The Clippers and Wizards will be back in the playoffs and maybe Milwaukee.

Where will Seattle play and will Iverson ever get traded?

[Franchize41]

Also, why haven't the Raptors signed P.J. Tucker yet?

signed :thumbsup

[CrashDMB237]

Everyone is so down on the Knicks, and rightfully so, but it may be alot better than we all think. I've been a season ticket holder for 11 years now and a fan since birth. I've been real about everything, I can admit when we suck and I know last year, we fuckin sucked. But look at the two biggest names on the team: Marbury and Francis. Two guys that are pretty much uncoachable and won't even try unless their coach treats them the way they want to be treated. Well Isiah is a big pussy, but in this case, that might work. He'll let Steph and Stevie run around and do their thing, whereas Brown had them both on tight leashes.

I know Curry is down in Chicago working with Michael Jordan's trainer and playing in some pick up games... the first time he's ever done that in his career. Crawford impressed me near the end of last year and emerged as a leader, so I hope that holds true. The three sophomores (Lee, Nate, Channing) will be fine and I really look forward to seeing their progress. Now all we need is a freakin defensive stopper and we might actually make some noise!

[marlin1805]

Kobe Bryant will average 29-7-7 and the Lakers will win the NBA championship. That is all for now.






:lorraine



To be honest I think this is the Suns' year. I hope not, but they've got all the right pieces now.

I agree, the Suns have a great chance next year with Stoudemire coming back. But the Lakers will not get a championship, it would be nice to see, but they still have a lot or work to, I expect them to make it to the 2nd round of the playoffs

[Tiduwho]

Now all we need is a freakin defensive stopper and we might actually make some noise!

Like the sound of charcoal being kicked around in the cellar? Can't wait for Greg Odden from you guys.

[justinandimcool]

I agree, the Suns have a great chance next year with Stoudemire coming back. But the Lakers will not get a championship, it would be nice to see, but they still have a lot or work to, I expect them to make it to the 2nd round of the playoffs


Eh, the Lakers are an iffy. Kobe's not that stupid. He'll find the balance of sharing the ball and distributing to his teammates much like the first 4 games of the Phoenix series. He learns from his mistakes. He's not gonna be a ballhog this year I guarantee you that. Truth is the Lakers are still 2 players away. Specifically a more aggressive Lamar Odom and anyone on the low block other than FUCKING KWAME BROWN.


I'm still seeing Miami in the finals and I'm interested to see how Dwyane Wade does this season. Lebron is also blooming, so the individual performances will be fun to watch. But anyways, until further notice my temporary picks are Suns vs Heat (two teams with the same logo in the finals, whoopie).

I guarantee you though, the Lakers will be a better team. 2nd round is where I see them (which in this town isn't enough so I'm hoping for alot better). By

[justinandimcool]

I agree, the Suns have a great chance next year with Stoudemire coming back. But the Lakers will not get a championship, it would be nice to see, but they still have a lot or work to, I expect them to make it to the 2nd round of the playoffs


Eh, the Lakers are an iffy. Kobe's not that stupid. He'll find the balance of sharing the ball and distributing to his teammates much like the first 4 games of the Phoenix series. He learns from his mistakes. He's not gonna be a ballhog this year I guarantee you that. Truth is the Lakers are still 2 players away. Specifically a more aggressive Lamar Odom and anyone on the low block other than FUCKING KWAME BROWN.


I'm still seeing Miami in the finals and I'm interested to see how Dwyane Wade does this season. Lebron is also blooming, so the individual performances will be fun to watch. But anyways, until further notice my temporary picks are Suns vs Heat (two teams with the same logo in the finals, whoopie).

I guarantee you though, the Lakers will be a better team. 2nd round is where I see them (which in this town isn't enough so I'm hoping for alot better). By the

[justinandimcool]

I agree, the Suns have a great chance next year with Stoudemire coming back. But the Lakers will not get a championship, it would be nice to see, but they still have a lot or work to, I expect them to make it to the 2nd round of the playoffs


Eh, the Lakers are an iffy. Kobe's not that stupid. He'll find the balance of sharing the ball and distributing to his teammates much like the first 4 games of the Phoenix series. He learns from his mistakes. He's not gonna be a ballhog this year I guarantee you that. Truth is the Lakers are still 2 players away. Specifically a more aggressive Lamar Odom and anyone on the low block other than FUCKING KWAME BROWN. And Jordan Farmar is BLOOMING during training camp.


I'm still seeing Miami in the finals and I'm interested to see how Dwyane Wade does this season. Lebron is also blooming, so the individual performances will be fun to watch. But anyways, until further notice my temporary picks are Suns vs Heat (two teams with the same logo in the finals, whoopie).

I guarantee you though, the Lakers will be a better team. 2nd round is where I see them (which in this town isn't enough so I'm hoping for alot better). By the way Lakers vs Heat III on Christmas this year, it's official. Hopefully my Christmas won't be ruined for the 3rd straight year. Thanks alot NBA for beating a dead horse. But hey, instead of Shaq vs Kobe I'm looking at this more like D-Wade vs Kobe. Yay!

[UNC41]

Everyone is so down on the Knicks, and rightfully so, but it may be alot better than we all think. I've been a season ticket holder for 11 years now and a fan since birth. I've been real about everything, I can admit when we suck and I know last year, we fuckin sucked. But look at the two biggest names on the team: Marbury and Francis. Two guys that are pretty much uncoachable and won't even try unless their coach treats them the way they want to be treated. Well Isiah is a big pussy, but in this case, that might work. He'll let Steph and Stevie run around and do their thing, whereas Brown had them both on tight leashes.

I know Curry is down in Chicago working with Michael Jordan's trainer and playing in some pick up games... the first time he's ever done that in his career. Crawford impressed me near the end of last year and emerged as a leader, so I hope that holds true. The three sophomores (Lee, Nate, Channing) will be fine and I really look forward to seeing their progress. Now all we need is a freakin defensive stopper and we might actually make some noise!

Isn't that why you guys drafted Dennis Rodman Jr.? Have fun giving the Bulls a top 5 pick next year.

[Darksideofoz]

Have fun giving the Bulls a top 5 pick next year.

Go NY, LOSE LOSE LOSE

[thebigv]

Everyone is so down on the Knicks, and rightfully so, but it may be alot better than we all think. I've been a season ticket holder for 11 years now and a fan since birth. I've been real about everything, I can admit when we suck and I know last year, we fuckin sucked. But look at the two biggest names on the team: Marbury and Francis. Two guys that are pretty much uncoachable and won't even try unless their coach treats them the way they want to be treated. Well Isiah is a big pussy, but in this case, that might work. He'll let Steph and Stevie run around and do their thing, whereas Brown had them both on tight leashes.

I know Curry is down in Chicago working with Michael Jordan's trainer and playing in some pick up games... the first time he's ever done that in his career. Crawford impressed me near the end of last year and emerged as a leader, so I hope that holds true. The three sophomores (Lee, Nate, Channing) will be fine and I really look forward to seeing their progress. Now all we need is a freakin defensive stopper and we might actually make some noise!

First off...you're fucking delusional. Letting Marbury and Francis 'run around' is not the answer. They're both a plague to any team you put them on. I can't believe anyone in New York, let alone a 20 year old, 11 year season ticket holder, would believe Isiah is going to do positive things for them. That team needs to just scrap it all and start over, because they're a fucking mess.

[CrashDMB237]

I didn't mean run around as in let them ballhog and chuck. I talk to a few people in the NY media, some big time NY beat writers. They have all said that everything coming out of Marbury's mouth so far is positive. He loves Isiah. He's going to try and do everything to make Isiah look like a genius compared to Larry Brown. No where did I say we would be a good team... I said we would be better. But what should I have expected, you're from Chicago.

And to whoever made the Balkman joke... if I thought he was the next Rodman I wouldn't have said we needed a defensive stopper.

[Tiduwho]

He's going to try and do everything to make Isiah look like a genius compared to Larry Brown.

By going back to being Starbury?

[CrashDMB237]

Again... where did I say that?

[UNC41]

I didn't mean run around as in let them ballhog and chuck. I talk to a few people in the NY media, some big time NY beat writers. They have all said that everything coming out of Marbury's mouth so far is positive. He loves Isiah. He's going to try and do everything to make Isiah look like a genius compared to Larry Brown. No where did I say we would be a good team... I said we would be better. But what should I have expected, you're from Chicago.

And to whoever made the Balkman joke... if I thought he was the next Rodman I wouldn't have said we needed a defensive stopper.

Who cares if Marbury loves Isiah. Name the last team he wasn't a cancer on? That goes for Stevie Franchise too. Trying to make Isiah Thomas look like a genius compared to anyone is like me trying to make my shit turn into roses.

[dmbhoosier21]

Who cares if Marbury loves Isiah. Name the last team he wasn't a cancer on? That goes for Stevie Franchise too. Trying to make Isiah Thomas look like a genius compared to anyone is like me trying to make my shit turn into roses.

Yup, that about covers the whole Isiah being able to turn around the Knicks claim - He has been an utter failure in basketball since he retired as a player. Coming from a Pacer fan, just wait till you see this guy coach; you will be scratching your head trying to figure out what the hell he has in mind.

Marbury and Stevie Franchise on the same team - two prima donnas who have proven everywhere they have been that they are nothing but selfish ballhoggs who care more about their stats than their teams.

The Pacers also seem to be on the same boat (though not sinking quite as fast as the Knicks). I have been trying to figure out all their trades and acquisitions and it is obvious Bird is trying to turn the Pacers into a Western-type team (run n' gun game). Though he has a collection of athletic players, he is forgetting one thing - running is only one part of the Western-type play......SHOOTING is the other and the Pacers do not have ONE reliable and consistent perimeter threat :BANG

[Tiduwho]

Again... where did I say that?

I just believe that his reference to himself as "Starbury" needs the occasional reminder. Has there ever been a more pompous nickname? Lol. :p

[dmbmuskie]

I just believe that his reference to himself as "Starbury" needs the occasional reminder. Has there ever been a more pompous nickname? Lol. :p

Lebron has "Choosen 1" across his back, which I always thought was a bit much. I'd put them on the same level.

[Darksideofoz]

Lebron has "Choosen 1" across his back, which I always thought was a bit much. I'd put them on the same level.

I don't think you can compare Marbury and Lebron. And i think Nike came up with the Choosen One.

NY has like what 5 guards and two forwards? I think they might win more games than last year (not saying much) if the right guys are healthy and Isiah can control the team, and marbury and francis (each their own one man team).

I look forward to another Bulls loterry pick via the Knicks in 2007, thanks Isiah.

[marlin1805]

I don't think you can compare Marbury and Lebron. And i think Nike came up with the Choosen One.

NY has like what 5 guards and two forwards? I think they might win more games than last year (not saying much) if the right guys are healthy and Isiah can control the team, and marbury and francis (each their own one man team).

I look forward to another Bulls loterry pick via the Knicks in 2007, thanks Isiah.

I thought he was just comparing their nicknames ... its obvious that Lebron is far more superior of a player than Marbury.

[rdawg13]

Just wanted to mention that my Jazz will be dangerous this year. We just added Mr. Ronnie Brewer and he had his way in the summer league. We now have a talented young backcourt to go along with our scary frontcourt (even though the defense is a bit sketchy.) I'm not saying that we'll be contenders but we'll be giving people hell all season long. The Northwest division is ours! (and thereby at least the #3 seed) How 'bout this lineup?

Deron Williams
Ronnie Brewer
Andrei Kirilenko
Carlos Boozer
Mehmet Okur

[41ravens]

i like how the jazz drafted dee williams and then had roger powell try out. all they need to do now is work out some trades for head and augustine and they'll be set.

[UNC41]

The Jazz will be in contention for the division title with Denver and Minnesota (if and only if Foye has a ROY worth season). The thing that could hold Utah back is they don't have one player who scares me offensively.

[dmbphan041]

Toronto signs restricted free agent Fred Jones; releases Alvin Williams.

fuckin sweet

[Franchize41]

Toronto signs restricted free agent Fred Jones; releases Alvin Williams.

fuckin sweet

:thumbsup I hate to see Alvin go though, as useless as he was, before last season he was the franchises leader in GP, but im happy with the change.

[CrashDMB237]

I hope nobody thinks I'm sticking up for Stephon. I want his ass GONE. Im just trying to make the best out of a really shitty situation. He's not going anywhere for a while, so I'm hoping Isiah brings out the best in him. For those of you not from the area, Steph LOVES Isiah and Isiah obviously loves Steph. No way Steph lets Isiah down or Isiah gets in Steph's face. They'll both get what they want. Unfortunately... we'll still suck.

[dmbphan041]

where'd Loren Woods end up? he's not on the Raptors roster on their website.

The raps need another center, all we have right now is Pape and Rasho, and Pape can't play all 82 games. I say get rid of Kris Humphries for someone, even if we just got him.lol.

[EddieW33]

where'd Loren Woods end up? he's not on the Raptors roster on their website.

The raps need another center, all we have right now is Pape and Rasho, and Pape can't play all 82 games. I say get rid of Kris Humphries for someone, even if we just got him.lol.

Wow. Give up Humphries for Loren Woods...:lol

I mean, Loren Woods couldn't find the practice floor while here in MN, all he did was get worse...not trying to pimp up Humphries, as the bastard should have stayed in college a little longer :twak


...and Rasho, have fun with Casper the firendly ghost, as he WILL disappear in almost every game. He will play like a real NBA center for like 5 - 10 minutes per game - dominate the glass and be a good low post scorer - then reality sets in again and he disappears.

[Stream #41]

Charlotte is putting pieces in the place for the future. They're team is full of college All-Americans and they have an arena full of money (not fans) to spend on free agents. I'd love to see Larry Brown add to growing Carolina Blue that the Bobcats have been bleeding, but doubt it will happen with the team so young.



They're one of my favourite teams in the NBA. Great roster they have in Charlotte.

[Dancing Ants]

I don't think (or hope) Stoudamire is going to be that great this year.

[41ravens]

I don't think (or hope) Stoudamire is going to be that great this year.

then you are setting yourself up for a huge letdown, my friend. cause he'll be back. and it will be glorious. dirk and your boys better watch their backs this year.

[dmbphan041]

Wow. Give up Humphries for Loren Woods...:lol

I mean, Loren Woods couldn't find the practice floor while here in MN, all he did was get worse...not trying to pimp up Humphries, as the bastard should have stayed in college a little longer :twak


...and Rasho, have fun with Casper the firendly ghost, as he WILL disappear in almost every game. He will play like a real NBA center for like 5 - 10 minutes per game - dominate the glass and be a good low post scorer - then reality sets in again and he disappears.

we got rid of Woods, I was saying we should get rid of Humphries for another centre.

Raptors Roster

2006-07 Roster
NUMPLAYERPOSHTWTDOB FROMYRS7Andrea Bargnani (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/andrea_bargnani/index.html?nav=page) F 7-025010/26/1985 ItalyR4Chris Bosh (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/chris_bosh/index.html?nav=page) F 6-1023003/24/1984 Georgia Tech38Jose Calderon (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/jose_calderon/index.html?nav=page) G 6-321009/28/1981 Spain111T.J. Ford (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/tj_ford/index.html?nav=page) G 6-016503/24/1983 Texas2Jorge Garbajosa (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/jorge_garbajosa/index.html?nav=page) F 6-924512/19/1977 SpainR14Joey Graham (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/joey_graham/index.html?nav=page) F 6-722506/11/1982 Oklahoma State143Kris Humphries (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/kris_humphries/index.html?nav=page) F 6-923502/06/1985 Minnesota220Fred Jones (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/fred_jones/index.html?nav=page) G 6-222003/11/1979 Oregon42Darrick Martin (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/darrick_martin/index.html?nav=page) G 5-1117003/06/1971 UCLA118Rasho Nesterovic (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/radoslav_nesterovic/index.html?nav=page) C 7-025505/30/1976 Slovenia8Anthony Parker (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/anthony_parker/index.html?nav=page) G-F 6-621506/19/1975 Bradley324Morris Peterson (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/morris_peterson/index.html?nav=page) G-F 6-722008/26/1977 Michigan State69Pape Sow (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/pape_sow/index.html?nav=page) F 6-1025011/22/1981 Cal State-Fullerton21P.J. Tucker (http://www.nba.com/playerfile/pj_tucker/index.html?nav=page) G-F 6-522505/05/1985 TexasR
we need a centre

[Franchize41]

we got rid of Woods, I was saying we should get rid of Humphries for another centre.


were bound to play Bosh at the 5, maybe let Bargnani play there a bit when were not playing against the likes of Ben Wallace etc

[dmbphan041]

were bound to play Bosh at the 5, maybe let Bargnani play there a bit when were not playing against the likes of Ben Wallace etc

true

[dmbphan041]

Boston signs undrafted rookie free agent Kevin Pittsnogle.

:eek

[Franchize41]

Boston signs undrafted rookie free agent Kevin Pittsnogle.

:eek

he was bound to sign somewhere, i was shocked he wasnt drafted

[dmbphan041]

he was bound to sign somewhere, i was shocked he wasnt drafted

I know I was too I was just really really hoping Toronto'd sign him

[Franchize41]

I know I was too I was just really really hoping Toronto'd sign him

we dont have room... and for that matter he isnt from europe :lol

[dmbphan041]

we dont have room... and for that matter he isnt from europe :lol

:lol

[Alazais]

we dont have room... and for that matter he isnt from europe :lol



:lol :lol :lol and :lorraine because it's true...

[Franchize41]

I just noticed the day that Williams is released they give Jones his number :(

[Dancing Ants]

he was bound to sign somewhere, i was shocked he wasnt drafted


he has very little defensive capabilities. i figured that's why no one wanted him.

[Franchize41]

he has very little defensive capabilities. i figured that's why no one wanted him.

id still use a 2nd rounder on him...

[dmbphan041]

I just noticed the day that Williams is released they give Jones his number :(

damn that's harsh

[Dancing Ants]

everyone needs a honkey w/tattoos. that's why miami won last year.

[dmbmuskie]

everyone needs a honkey w/tattoos. that's why miami won last year.

It's such a copy cat league that they had to do it. You left out from WVA in your description.

[rdawg13]

The Jazz will be in contention for the division title with Denver and Minnesota (if and only if Foye has a ROY worth season). The thing that could hold Utah back is they don't have one player who scares me offensively.

Do you mean that we don't have a prolific scoring perimeter player that scares you? You haven't seen Boozer in the paint... He'll take you right OR left with equal success rates. I can't remember many times when he got the ball within 8 feet of the basket when he didn't score or go to the stripe. PLUS, Okur can step away from the basket and has hit a bunch of game-tying/game-winning shots. You must be speaking of some elusive superstar level player like Lebron or Wade... tsk tsk, we'll see :D

[UNC41]

Do you mean that we don't have a prolific scoring perimeter player that scares you? You haven't seen Boozer in the paint... He'll take you right OR left with equal success rates. I can't remember many times when he got the ball within 8 feet of the basket when he didn't score or go to the stripe. PLUS, Okur can step away from the basket and has hit a bunch of game-tying/game-winning shots. You must be speaking of some elusive superstar level player like Lebron or Wade... tsk tsk, we'll see :D

I have seen Boozer in the paint. He is good, but no where near the best in the league. I could easily name 10, probably 15 post players who are better down low than he is. I could also name at least 25 overall players who are easily more of a scoring threat than Boozer. Like I said, the Jazz are lacking a prolific scorer. They may make the playoffs, but won't be a threat to do real damage until they have one.

[dmbphan041]

I have seen Boozer in the paint. He is good, but no where near the best in the league. I could easily name 10, probably 15 post players who are better down low than he is. I could also name at least 25 overall players who are easily more of a scoring threat than Boozer. Like I said, the Jazz are lacking a prolific scorer. They may make the playoffs, but won't be a threat to do real damage until they have one.

whatever man, you just wait Hoffa's gunna tear it up this year:rolleyes

New Jersey acquires Mikki Moore from Seattle for a 2009 second-round draft pick.

Orlando re-signs restricted free agent Trevor Ariza.

[rdawg13]

I have seen Boozer in the paint. He is good, but no where near the best in the league. I could easily name 10, probably 15 post players who are better down low than he is. I could also name at least 25 overall players who are easily more of a scoring threat than Boozer. Like I said, the Jazz are lacking a prolific scorer. They may make the playoffs, but won't be a threat to do real damage until they have one.

Now I never said he was the best post player, but he is VERY good. Honestly how many Jazz games did you see LAST season? I don't give much credibility to speculation. Although, I do understand your point... we don't have (per-se) a "GO-TO" guy (ala LBJ, DWade or Kobe) but still watch out, we're going to be good. And "Ha-wful" will hopefully be on the bench waiting to get off only when we need a hard foul to stop penetration... he sucks (but Humphries didn't do anything for us either, so it was a wash)

[marlin1805]

The thing about the Jazz that makes them tough is that they are very streaky and unpredictable. Some nights they are unstoppable, with all players contributing and other nights, they can't hit a shot and would lose to a high school JV team. Hopefully this year they can get some more fluidity going, plus I think Kirilenko needs to take more of a leadership role on the team.

[UNC41]

Now I never said he was the best post player, but he is VERY good. Honestly how many Jazz games did you see LAST season? I don't give much credibility to speculation. Although, I do understand your point... we don't have (per-se) a "GO-TO" guy (ala LBJ, DWade or Kobe) but still watch out, we're going to be good. And "Ha-wful" will hopefully be on the bench waiting to get off only when we need a hard foul to stop penetration... he sucks (but Humphries didn't do anything for us either, so it was a wash)

About as many as Boozer played. Zing!

If Brewer can bring an offensive game this year the Jazz could be a very solid ball club.

[UNC41]

The thing about the Jazz that makes them tough is that they are very streaky and unpredictable. Some nights they are unstoppable, with all players contributing and other nights, they can't hit a shot and would lose to a high school JV team. Hopefully this year they can get some more fluidity going, plus I think Kirilenko needs to take more of a leadership role on the team.

I think he needs to take that free pass his wife gives him and bang the hottest Mormon he can find.

[marlin1805]

I think he needs to take that free pass his wife gives him and bang the hottest Mormon he can find.

:lol :lol
:thumbsup :thumbsup

[dmbphan041]

Toronto signs 2005 second-round draft pick Uros Slokar

Slokar averaged 14.3 points and 7.3 rebounds for the Raptors in the 2005 Summer Pro League. He spent last season with Benetton Treviso.

YES YES YES YES YES!

:bounce

e: imo that'll be it in terms of moves, but i might be wrong we'll see

Raptors signee Jorge Garbajosa led Spain with 18 points as they cruised past China Wednesday night.

[rdawg13]

About as many as Boozer played. Zing!

If Brewer can bring an offensive game this year the Jazz could be a very solid ball club.

Well then... ouch :BANG

Seriously though, his game is still improving. He may have only played the last 30 games, but he was a monster in those 30 averaging roughly 20/10 after eturning to the starting 5

AND providing Brewer's game translates well into the NBA, he'll fill a HUGE need that we had last year.

p.s. the raptors still won't be that great... who would seriously trade Charlie V for TJ "no shot" Ford?

[Franchize41]

Toronto signs 2005 second-round draft pick Uros Slokar

Slokar averaged 14.3 points and 7.3 rebounds for the Raptors in the 2005 Summer Pro League. He spent last season with Benetton Treviso.

YES YES YES YES YES!

:bounce

e: imo that'll be it in terms of moves, but i might be wrong we'll see

Raptors signee Jorge Garbajosa led Spain with 18 points as they cruised past China Wednesday night.

I told you he agreed to a deal :thumbsup With Slokar signing though im thinking about the future of Ukic. With Jones & Parker wrapped up long term, TJ our starting PG and Jose on the bench, I wonder if we'll sign him ever

[rconverse]

I think he needs to take that free pass his wife gives him and bang the hottest Mormon he can find.

Agreed! :thumbsup

BTW Brian, Swingers has been on a lot lately. If you ever make it upto Chicago and we meet, I'll be disappointed if you don't look like the guy in your avatar. You, Adam and Primo (although he changed his) pop into my mind everytime that movie comes on.

[Dancing Ants]

Good Lukc Minnesota!

http://www.360thepitch.com/radio/killercrossover/index.php?subaction=showfull&id=1153749306&archive=&start_from=&ucat=28&

this is fucking hilarious. listen to the stream at the bottom of the page.

[OCMarsh]

The hot rumor around town is that the Blazers are trying to swap Blake, Skinner and Ha for Jamal Magloire. Also, it appears that no one will take Darius Miles in a trade:lorraine.

Oh well, I am very excited to watch Brandon Roy.

[dreamingtreeIU]

pacers 2007 nba champs

[dmbhoosier21]

pacers 2007 nba champs

:lol Someone is very optimistic

[marlin1805]

pacers 2007 nba champs

There is no way that'll happen ... I'm sorry

[41ravens]

The hot rumor around town is that the Blazers are trying to swap Blake, Skinner and Ha for Jamal Magloire. Also, it appears that no one will take Darius Miles in a trade:lorraine.

Oh well, I am very excited to watch Brandon Roy.

:thumbsup

he's my favorite of the incoming class. i hate him cause he kicked arizona's ass up and down the floor last year, but that's in the past.

[marlin1805]

I just saw a guy named Miles on the NBA summer league game ... that guy is definitely NBA bound, tons of potential.

[marlin1805]

nevermind, its CJ Miles, 2nd year in the league. Strong player though

[dmbfd15]

I love my mavs I went to a couple of playoff games and they are the team to beat. They have picked up Austin Croshere and the other PG which hopefully will switch Terry to be a SG? My prediction is that the Mavs will beat the Cavs in 5 or 6 games in the Finals next season.
GO MAVS!!

[rdawg13]

nevermind, its CJ Miles, 2nd year in the league. Strong player though

That's my boy CJ!!! He's only 19 too, he's going to be something special in a couple seasons. CJ, Ronnie Brewer, and Deron Williams are going to make a mean backcourt for us!!! :monkey

[marlin1805]

That's my boy CJ!!! He's only 19 too, he's going to be something special in a couple seasons. CJ, Ronnie Brewer, and Deron Williams are going to make a mean backcourt for us!!! :monkey

yeah Brewer looked good too ... one or two more seasons and they are going to be a force for the Jazz, hopefully they stick around

[rdawg13]

yeah Brewer looked good too ... one or two more seasons and they are going to be a force for the Jazz, hopefully they stick around

Yeah, you're telling me! :D

[marlin1805]

I love my mavs I went to a couple of playoff games and they are the team to beat. They have picked up Austin Croshere and the other PG which hopefully will switch Terry to be a SG? My prediction is that the Mavs will beat the Cavs in 5 or 6 games in the Finals next season.
GO MAVS!!

although i hate croshere, he'll be a good addition to the mavs as long as he can consistenly hit his shots. cavs in the finals next season?!? you should go to vegas and place a bet on that one, im sure its a long shot

[marlin1805]

Yeah, you're telling me! :D

is Miles a backup PG right now?

[rdawg13]

is Miles a backup PG right now?

Nope, he's buried on the bench as our second or third string 2 guard (last year he spent most of his time in the NBDL or in the inactive list)... he's behind Gordan Giricek and Derek Fisher on our tentative depth chart. Though most Jazz fans would have him and Ronnie Brewer splitting all the time at the 2

[marlin1805]

Nope, he's buried on the bench as our second or third string 2 guard (last year he spent most of his time in the NBDL or in the inactive list)... he's behind Gordan Giricek and Derek Fisher on our tentative depth chart. Though most Jazz fans would have him and Ronnie Brewer splitting all the time at the 2

they should keep dfish and trade giricek and make CJ the backup 1, he's ready for sure

[rdawg13]

they should keep dfish and trade giricek and make CJ the backup 1, he's ready for sure

CJ is primarily a 2, hasn't really spent any time at the 1 in games (perhaps in practice) but a lot of fans would like to see Giricek shipped out so that we can give more playing time to CJ and Ronnie.

[marlin1805]

didn't realize CJ was 6'6", yeah he could be a 2 guard. I'm now a Jazz fan just because of CJ

[dmbphan041]

Charlotte re-signs restricted free agent Bernard Robinson.
Denver signs unrestricted free agent Jamal Sampson.

Houston signs John Lucas.

Indiana signs free agent Maceo Baston.

[dmbphan041]

Chicago signs unrestricted free agent Adrian Griffin.
Memphis re-signs unrestricted free agent Chucky Atkins.

New Jersey names Bobby Marks vice president of basketball operations.

Portland acquires Jamaal Magloire from Milwaukee for Steve Blake, Brian Skinner and Ha Seung-Jin .

Portland's gunna be huge

[dmbphan041]

Chicago signs first-round picks Tyrus Thomas and Thabo Sefolosha.

L.A. Clippers sign unrestricted free agent Aaron Williams.


eeeeeeeeeeewwwwwww Aaron Williams

[jmudmbphan]

knicks are going to clean house this year...we got jeffries!

[Dancing Ants]

knicks are going to clean house this year...we got jeffries!


isiah thomas will be living in a clean house by 2008 when he gets fired.

[CrashDMB237]

knicks are going to clean house this year...we got jeffries!

Not yet we didn't. I hope we do though. He's one guy who can actually defend and his basketball IQ is probably higher than the rest of the starting lineup combined.

And why is Portland good because they got Magloire? There's a reason he keeps getting traded.

[rdawg13]

Portland will be mediocre at best... BUT they will be good in a few years if their players develop on track. They'll suck pretty bad this year though. The wester conference is going to be tough this year, reasonably there are 12 teams that COULD make a case for a playoff spot.

[MacGuyver]

wtf is with the annual christmas matchup. there are so many better ones if you ask me.

[UNC41]

Division winners are no longer guarnteed a top 3 seed in the playoffs. I like this rule.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2537369

[rdawg13]

Yep, I agree with those changes... especially the timeouts in the final 2 minutes thing... the last minute of a game can last for weeks sometimes with all those timeouts...

[marlin1805]

Yep, Portland is either gonna make a huge turn-around this year or fall flat on their faces ... they have a good squad this year, they just need to get chemistry going

[dmbphan041]

Report: Kings to Sign Woods
"Loren Woods will soon be a member of the Kings, according to his agent. Jason Levien, who represents the 7-foot-2 free-agent center, said his client and the Kings agreed to contract terms Saturday. Woods, a five-year veteran who has played sparingly throughout his career, is expected to fly to Sacramento on Monday. The deal is expected to be finalized Tuesday," reports Sam Amick of THE SACRAMENTO BEE.

praise Rael this guy is gone!

:hump

e: FIBA tourney starts Saturday night

[justinandimcool]

Happy Birthday Kobe!!!!!!

:multi :bounce :multi :bounce :multi :bounce :multi :bounce

[MacGuyver]

Report: Kings to Sign Woods
"Loren Woods will soon be a member of the Kings, according to his agent. Jason Levien, who represents the 7-foot-2 free-agent center, said his client and the Kings agreed to contract terms Saturday. Woods, a five-year veteran who has played sparingly throughout his career, is expected to fly to Sacramento on Monday. The deal is expected to be finalized Tuesday," reports Sam Amick of THE SACRAMENTO BEE.

praise Rael this guy is gone!

:hump

e: FIBA tourney starts Saturday night

poor loren :lol:lol:lol

[dmbphan041]

Sep 28, 2006 2:31pm ET
Knicks Name Glen Grunwald Senior VP, Basketball Operations
New York Knickerbockers President of Basketball Operations Isiah Thomas announced today that Glen Grunwald has been named senior vice president, basketball operations.

http://www.nba.com/knicks/news//grunwald_060928.html

man, New York's going to be a powerhouse this season eh

[Franchize41]

Sep 28, 2006 2:31pm ET
Knicks Name Glen Grunwald Senior VP, Basketball Operations
New York Knickerbockers President of Basketball Operations Isiah Thomas announced today that Glen Grunwald has been named senior vice president, basketball operations.

http://www.nba.com/knicks/news//grunwald_060928.html

man, New York's going to be a powerhouse this season eh

theyre trying to remake the shittyness that was Raptors expansion in New York... wheres Charles Oakley when you need him

[Tiduwho]

February = Da Bearss
June = Da Bullss

[CrashDMB237]

Great, now we have two of the biggest idiots in basketball running our team with an even bigger idiot as the owner. Well, Isiah and Grunwald are great talent scouts but couldn't negotiate their way out of a wet paper bag.

[Franchize41]

Great, now we have two of the biggest idiots in basketball running our team with an even bigger idiot as the owner. Well, Isiah and Grunwald are great talent scouts but couldn't negotiate their way out of a wet paper bag.

yeah grunwald is great at finding talent... just dont let him touch contracts...

[KitKatRaven41]

bulls all the way---look at all that talent they have--wallace, nocioni, deng, hinrich, gordon, duhon, the 2 draft picks--thomas and thabo sefolosha

[justinandimcool]

Lakers offseason so far = disappointing


Disappointing meaning they still haven't released FUCKING KWAME BROWN.

[CrashDMB237]

Lakers offseason so far = disappointing


Disappointing meaning they still haven't released FUCKING KWAME BROWN.

Why release him when you can convince Isiah/Grunwald to give up David Lee and a first rounder for him?

Seriously, if Isiah trades Lee, I'm throwing away my season tickets.

[justinandimcool]

:lol I'll take that.

Knicks are a sleeper this year, they're not gonna be THAT bad. I wouldn't be surprised if they were at least in the playoff hunt. Let's face it, a team with both Marbury and Francis has a shot. By the middle of the season they'll have played with each other for more than a year, who knows how much they'll have improved. With the rest of that roster looking nice and fresh, I believe the skies the limit. I'm not expecting much, but I'm not expecting a disaster.

[Franchize41]

im really curious to see how the raptors end up... there was such a turnover on the roster

[CrashDMB237]

:lol I'll take that.

Knicks are a sleeper this year, they're not gonna be THAT bad. I wouldn't be surprised if they were at least in the playoff hunt. Let's face it, a team with both Marbury and Francis has a shot. By the middle of the season they'll have played with each other for more than a year, who knows how much they'll have improved. With the rest of that roster looking nice and fresh, I believe the skies the limit. I'm not expecting much, but I'm not expecting a disaster.

As a season ticket holder for 14 years and a diehard, I naturally think the same thing. But at the same time, I'm expecting the worst, so if it indeed does happen, it doesn't really affect me as much.

I guess I have Nate, Channing and David Lee to look forward to. All three of them are going to be something special once fully developed and on the floor at the same time. Frye and Lee already did damage last year.

[Stream #41]

im really curious to see how the raptors end up... there was such a turnover on the roster

I've been really excited for our team this year. But a couple days ago I got kinda worried for our chances to excel because looking at our roster again it seems like we have so many new faces and a lot of inexperience that it'll really take some time for us to gel and get the chemistry together. Plus we have a pretty tough first two months with a big west coast road trip already in November. I do feel as though we will struggle for a while before this team puts it all together.

It's gonna be quite a ride for the Raptors this season. I can't wait :thumbsup

[dmbphan041]

$50 says we go 0-20 to start again

[CrashDMB237]

I think getting rid of Charlie V was such a HUGE mistake. I don't care if you picked up Bargnani (who I think has 0 hope), you don't trade away that kind of talent for a question mark PG. No doubt, if TJ is healthy, thats one of the best all around PGs in the game right there, but odds are he isn't going to fully recover. Not to mention, that leaves you with Nesterovic as your only security down low.

[justinandimcool]

Oh my god, I just saw a picture of Kobe in a #24 jersey...I've never seen something so...so....WRONG! :lorraine

[justinandimcool]

And it begins tomorrow.

[UNC41]

I had my fantasy draft last night and am liking my team.

D. Wade
CP3
Odom
Josh Smith
Camby
Sheed
Mike James
Caron Butler
Murphy
Granger
Mohammed
Gay
Crawford

[Tiduwho]

February = Da Bearss
June = Da Bullss

I agree.

[marlin1805]

Welcome back NBA!!!!!! ... This is my favorite time of year:

Basketball (Pro and College)
Football (Pro and College)
No Baseball
Hockey

Good stuff! I say the Suns win out this year ...

[UNC41]

College basketball makes it my favorite time of year, but here's to hoping the Bobcats and Timberwolves can put together playoff pushes this year.

[thebigv]

Welcome back NBA!!!!!! ... This is my favorite time of year:

Basketball (Pro and College)
Football (Pro and College)
No Baseball
Hockey

Good stuff! I say the Suns win out this year ...

82-0? That's impressive.

[dmbphan041]

raptors will miss the playoffs....again

[marlin1805]

82-0? That's impressive.

the championship man ... :lol :lol

they'll lose about 20 games in the regular season

[thebigv]

I know. :D You don't happen to have nba2k7 for the 360? I'd love to kick your ass with both ND and Detroit.

[marlin1805]

I do actually ... I was thinking about hittin you up this weekend when i was loungin. We need to play SOON.

[dmbmuskie]

The Suns championship hopes rest completely with Amare's knee.

[gravedigger13]

Come playoff time, the Bulls are going to see why the Pistons didn't match their offer to Big Ben. They'll be playing 4 on 5.

[dmbmuskie]

Come playoff time, the Bulls are going to see why the Pistons didn't match their offer to Big Ben. They'll be playing 4 on 5.

I actually look for Ben to have a decent offensive season, because of people saying exactly what you just did.

[marlin1805]

The Suns championship hopes rest completely with Amare's knee.
100% correct :thumbsup

They lost Tim Thomas too. They'll miss him A LOT.

[gravedigger13]

I actually look for Ben to have a decent offensive season, because of people saying exactly what you just did.

They can include him in the offensive scheme all they want, but the truth of the matter is he can't shoot. He even misses about one dunk per game. I'm serious.

[Tiduwho]

Come playoff time, the Bulls are going to see why the Pistons didn't match their offer to Big Ben. They'll be playing 4 on 5.


:lol


You realize the Bulls have been playing 4 on 5 for two years now right?

[dmbmuskie]

100% correct :thumbsup

They lost Tim Thomas too. They'll miss him A LOT.

That's probably the first time in history that's an accurate statement. I'm sure Thomas will be worthless again now that he got paid.

[dmbmuskie]

They can include him in the offensive scheme all they want, but the truth of the matter is he can't shoot. He even misses about one dunk per game. I'm serious.

I've seen him play, and he's like the worst kid on a youth basketball team's starting 5. I think realistically he could average 12 points a game this year.

[marlin1805]

That's probably the first time in history that's an accurate statement. I'm sure Thomas will be worthless again now that he got paid.

yeah he got his contract now, he can relax:lol

[dmbmuskie]

yeah he got his contract now, he can relax:lol

Guaranteed contracts destroy the quality of play in the NBA. If you looked at a list of mediocre and underachieving players in the league who have expiring contracts you can name every player who will seemingly come out of no where in order to have Isiah Thomas over pay them.

[SteelerMan]

I'm predicting a 36-46 record for my Sixers. They really didn't make any changes from last season.

On the other hand, the drafting of Raymond Felton and Sean May has turned me into a Bobcats fan as well, and I actually think they'll be much improved this season. Gerald Wallace may be the most underrated player in the league, and Raymond Felton was playing just as well as Chris Paul at the end of last season. I'm consdering getting the NBA League Pass (or whatever they call it) just to catch more of their games.

[gravedigger13]

:lol


You realize the Bulls have been playing 4 on 5 for two years now right?

Laugh all you want. You'll be screaming at your television in the playoffs.

[dmbmuskie]

Does anyone actually think the new ball can be as bad as all the players are saying it is?

[marlin1805]

Guaranteed contracts destroy the quality of play in the NBA. If you looked at a list of mediocre and underachieving players in the league who have expiring contracts you can name every player who will seemingly come out of no where in order to have Isiah Thomas over pay them.

Thomas over pay them ... thats great!

Really every sport has this problem though too. Players play their asses off when in the last year of their contracts so they can get top dollar for an extension or as a free-agent.

[dmbmuskie]

Thomas over pay them ... thats great!

Really every sport has this problem though too. Players play their asses off when in the last year of their contracts so they can get top dollar for an extension or as a free-agent.

Atleast the NFL teams can cut their asses.

[SteelerMan]

Does anyone actually think the new ball can be as bad as all the players are saying it is?

Yeah, I think so. I read an article about Mark Cuban commissioning a study on the new ball at UTA, and they concluded that it does behave differently than the old ball, especially when it gets wet. I think it bounces 8% less, or something like that.

[UNC41]

Laugh all you want. You'll be screaming at your television in the playoffs.

As will you without Big Ben.

[UNC41]

I'm predicting a 36-46 record for my Sixers. They really didn't make any changes from last season.

On the other hand, the drafting of Raymond Felton and Sean May has turned me into a Bobcats fan as well, and I actually think they'll be much improved this season. Gerald Wallace may be the most underrated player in the league, and Raymond Felton was playing just as well as Chris Paul at the end of last season. I'm consdering getting the NBA League Pass (or whatever they call it) just to catch more of their games.

:thumbsup

Felton's my boy and May had a solid preseason. If Morrison can step up as a scorer and Emeka can stay healthy they might be capable of a playoff push.

[SteelerMan]

The Bobcats are on national TV ONCE this season... December 14th against the Magic. With as many NBA games that are broadcast on national television, there's no excuse for ANY team to only be on once (although last season they weren't on at all, so I guess this is an improvement).

[gravedigger13]

As will you without Big Ben.

The NBA is getting smaller and quicker. I think Dumars realizes that. Flip is going to get them to play a more up-tempo game.

Ben started to complain in Detroit when he wasn't getting enough touches per game. Now the Bulls have to funnel the ball thru him to appease him, even though he's a liability on offense.

[dmbmuskie]

The NBA is getting smaller and quicker. I think Dumars realizes that. Flip is going to get them to play a more up-tempo game.

Ben started to complain in Detroit when he wasn't getting enough touches per game. Now the Bulls have to funnel the ball thru him to appease him, even though he's a liability on offense.

They're not going to funnel the ball through him. He's there to clean up the boards, and get enough touches in order to keep the defenses semi-honest.

[UNC41]

The NBA is getting smaller and quicker. I think Dumars realizes that. Flip is going to get them to play a more up-tempo game.

Ben started to complain in Detroit when he wasn't getting enough touches per game. Now the Bulls have to funnel the ball thru him to appease him, even though he's a liability on offense.

I agree, but Nazr Mohammed doesn't help the Pistons get smaller and quicker. I don't think McDyess has enough in the tank and love Maxiell, but think it'll take him time to adjust to the NBA being as undersized as he is.

From the Pistons games I watched last year, many of their problems started when they didn't make a little effort to get Big Ben involved early on offense. It's something Larry Brown always did, and paid off down the stretch of games.

[41ravens]

The Suns championship hopes rest completely with Amare's knee.

as a suns fan my entire life, i disagree. only with the "completely". as we all saw last year, the suns were 2 games away from the championship without having amare the entire season. we need barbosa to have another huge year and kurt thomas really needs to step up. the thing that sucks is that diaw, barbosa and bell aren't secrets anymore. the entire league will be gunning for them. i hope amare can get back to full form by the all-star break. we're already the hardest team to match up with. if he's 100%, there's no stopping the suns this year.

[marlin1805]

as a suns fan my entire life, i disagree. only with the "completely". as we all saw last year, the suns were 2 games away from the championship without having amare the entire season. we need barbosa to have another huge year and kurt thomas really needs to step up. the thing that sucks is that diaw, barbosa and bell aren't secrets anymore. the entire league will be gunning for them. i hope amare can get back to full form by the all-star break. we're already the hardest team to match up with. if he's 100%, there's no stopping the suns this year.

:thumbsup :thumbsup

[Tiduwho]

The NBA is getting smaller and quicker. I think Dumars realizes that. Flip is going to get them to play a more up-tempo game.

Ben started to complain in Detroit when he wasn't getting enough touches per game. Now the Bulls have to funnel the ball thru him to appease him, even though he's a liability on offense.

You serious Clark?


If the Bulls win this season, it won't be because of Big Ben. It will be because of their young core maturing to an elite level (Gordon, Hinrich, Deng, and Nocioni). Big Ben is there for tough D and clean up. He's Tyson Chandler, but 5x better at being Tyson Chandler.


You must not watch or read about the Bulls much.

[dmbmuskie]

Saying the Sun's hopes rest completely with Amare might be a stretch, but I cannot see them getting over the hump without him being a solid contributor. He'll probably never be the same player, but if he can put up just a good portion of his former production I think they win it all.

[marlin1805]

Ben is gonna dominate the middle for the Bulls, something Chandler could never do. He won't average more than 10 points/game for them though I don't think

[dmbmuskie]

Ben is gonna dominate the middle for the Bulls, something Chandler could never do. He won't average more than 10 points/game for them though I don't think

I don't think he'll have to. They've got scorers everywhere.

[gravedigger13]

From the Pistons games I watched last year, many of their problems started when they didn't make a little effort to get Big Ben involved early on offense. It's something Larry Brown always did, and paid off down the stretch of games.

There's a reason why they didn't include him on offense. :) When they did, they were forced to slow the game down. Flip wants to open it up and run. They can't do that with Ben.

When the playoffs come, their opponents will take their chances with allowing Ben to shoot and clamp down on the Bulls' main scoring threat. That's what the Heat did in the playoffs.

I'm grateful for what Ben delivered to this team. He was the heart and soul during the championship run. But then he started to feel that he deserved a larger role in the offense; something that would have brought the team down. I believe that's why the Pistons didn't match the Bulls offer.

My two cents.

[SteelerMan]

I think losing Ben Wallace hurts the Pistons more than signing Ben Wallace helps the Bulls. In other words, I don't expect a drastic improvement in the Bulls, but I expect the Pistons to slip quite a bit.

[dmbphan041]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2643392

Heckler banned for season after alleged racial slur

he NBA and the Orlando Magic on Monday banned for the season the fan whose alleged racial slur incited Houston Rockets center Dikembe Mutombo at a preseason game last week.

Season-ticket holder Hooman Hamzehloui allegedly called Mutombo a "monkey" Thursday in the third quarter of the Rockets-Magic game. Mutombo yelled back at Hamzehloui and gestured from the court.

Hamzehloui was ejected from the game. The league said Hamzehloui is also barred from attending games at any NBA arena this season. Orlando said it will refund his season-ticket payment.

"I will not say that I am happy about it," Mutombo told Fox 26 in Houston. "It is out of my hands. I have done my job. I have forgiven him. Whatever the commissioner and the league does, that's not my area."

According to a report in the Orlando Sentinel, Hamzehloui sent the Rockets center a letter of apology. Hamzehloui was contacted late Sunday by the newspaper and said he didn't know "using the word 'monkey' was bad."

"I would like to take a moment of your time to offer a complete and unconditional apology for my poor behavior, and in particular, my poor choice of words last Thursday night while attending the Houston-Orlando basketball game," the letter reads.

"I am by no means a racist, and if you only knew me better you would never begin to have those thoughts. What I am guilty of is poor judgment in the use of words while doing what I do to many of the visiting team's players, 'heckle them.'"

Mutombo said after the game he would go into the stands next time even if he got fined for it.

NBA spokesman Tim Frank said no action was taken against Mutombo and the matter was closed.

Hamzehloui also wrote that he would not attend another Magic game until Mutombo gives the team his approval and that he would donate $5,000 to a charity of Mutombo's choice.

Hamzehloui also wrote that he wished to apologize in person.

"That meant a lot to me," Mutombo told Fox 26 of the apology letter, but added that Hamzehloui's offer to personally apologize was not necessary. "I don't need that."

[marlin1805]

He didn't know calling an African player a 'monkey' was bad. Yeah

[thebigv]

Regardless...is this really the worst thing that's said to someone on the court? I've heard and said much worse, while not racist, wouldn't be nearly as accepted as 'Monkey'.

[Tiduwho]

There's a reason why they didn't include him on offense. :) When they did, they were forced to slow the game down. Flip wants to open it up and run. They can't do that with Ben.

When the playoffs come, their opponents will take their chances with allowing Ben to shoot and clamp down on the Bulls' main scoring threat. That's what the Heat did in the playoffs.

I'm grateful for what Ben delivered to this team. He was the heart and soul during the championship run. But then he started to feel that he deserved a larger role in the offense; something that would have brought the team down. I believe that's why the Pistons didn't match the Bulls offer.

My two cents.

And who might that be?

Take your pick: fine, go ahead and clamp down on Ben Gordon. The Bulls will just go to Hinrich, Nocioni, or Deng. All of them are capable of putting up 20+ points in any given game. Skiles gameplans the best mismatches. Not to mention the wildcard they have in Tyrus Thomas, who knows what he may end up as.

I really think you are basing too much of your opinion on your experience with Ben, rather then on how the Bulls play. Watch some Bulls games, starting with tonight against Miami. I doubt the Bulls will win though, as I'm sure Wade and Shaq want to impress the fans.

[Tiduwho]

Leading the league in Has-Beens.....


Alonzo Mourning
Gary Payton
Antione Walker
Jason Williams (the white one)

Lol

[AFurth]

Leading the league in Has-Beens.....


Alonzo Mourning
Gary Payton
Antione Walker
Jason Williams (the white one)

Lol

id agree but all their ring fingers are a little heavier tonight - has-beens or not

[marlin1805]

Huh?

Mourning is a strong player (can't play more than 20 minutes a game though)
Payton is clutch but passed his prime
Walker is streaky
Williams is improving

The only has been out of here is Payton and possibly Mourning although Mourning is a force in the middle, especially in last years playoffs

[justinandimcool]

How they'll finish:

1. Heat
2. Nets
3. Pistons
4. Bulls
5. Cavs
6. Wizards
7. Bobcats
8. Pacers


1. Spurs
2. Suns
3. Mavs
4. Clippers
5. Kings
6. Nuggets
7. Hornets
8. Lakers (my expectations are much higher for them than this, but I don't wanna look biased ;))

I'm still kinda iffy on whether or not the Mavs finish 1st 2nd or 3rd, but the Suns just look too good with a healthy Amare and the Spurs are still the Spurs, they'll be back with a vengeance. Then again Dallas young guys can only get better. These 3 teams will rotate around the top 3 spots all season. Watch them Clippers though.

The Nets are just ready, they have to be. 3 hungry veterans (yes, I think VC is hungry now) and a blooming star in Krstic, they're gonna make a run. Wallace won't improve the Bulls that much, I'm sorry, Hinrich needs to have a big year offensively as does the rest of the team. The Pistons are still damn good, and the Heat are still the champs. This is MVP year for Lebron, so we have to watch them. I'll be rooting for Morrison, I'm giddy to see how he does. Damn, keeping track of the rest of the league besides the Lakers will be interesting for a change.

West sleeper: Clippers, this team is READY. Livingston will improve over the year, and Brand will be in SERIOUS MVP contention. It's about damn time.

East sleeper: Wizards, I'm ready to see Arenas come into his true prime, they need to play defense though.

Western Conference Finals: Suns vs Spurs :hump

Eastern Conference Finals: Nets vs Heat

NBA Finals: Nets vs Suns, Suns in 7, I'm trusting Amare to be half the player he was, they'll be fine.






(This is all a lie, the Lakers will win ;))

[Tiduwho]

Huh?



"Has-been" meaning guys that were good in the 90s and are now old and all on the same team.

[marlin1805]

(This is all a lie, the Lakers will win ;))

:lol nice

[marlin1805]

"Has-been" meaning guys that were good in the 90s and are now old and all on the same team.

gotcha ... they're all still solid players for the most part

[Tiduwho]

Blame the sloppy ball-handling and shooting on the new ball.


Why does Stern have to be such a Nazi lately?

[Tiduwho]

Well, looks like I was wrong. Way to shit the bed in front of your home fans on Ring Presentation night, lol. This game wasn't close from the beginning. Tyrus Thomas looks great so far, anyone see him block the crap out of Shaq and slam it down hard two mins later?



Anyways, can anyone explain this ESPN poll to me please:

15.8% Seattle SuperSonics

12.8% Phoenix Suns

12.1% Dallas Mavericks

10.4% San Antonio Spurs

9.6% Miami Heat

7.2% Cleveland Cavaliers

6.2% Los Angeles Lakers

5.7% Chicago Bulls

4.2% Detroit Pistons

2.5% Houston Rockets

2.3% Boston Celtics

1.2% New Jersey Nets

1.0% Los Angeles Clippers




Seattle Supersonics...wtf??

[justinandimcool]

That's funny.

By the way, no Kobe tonight. 0-1 already and the game hasn't started. I'm really starting to question this guy's heart, I still call bullshit on him not being able to play in the summer games with team USA this summer. Sad. :(

[dmbmuskie]

That's funny.

By the way, no Kobe tonight. 0-1 already and the game hasn't started. I'm really starting to question this guy's heart, I still call bullshit on him not being able to play in the summer games with team USA this summer. Sad. :(

Jordan would have played.

I'm just joking.

[justinandimcool]

Jordan would have played.

I'm just joking.

Sad thing is that's probably true (even though it's just opening night)

[dmbmuskie]

Sad thing is that's probably true (even though it's just opening night)

I think the worst thing that ever happened to Kobe was Jordan. Without Jordan we love Kobe, except for the rape.

[justinandimcool]

I think the worst thing that ever happened to Kobe was Jordan. Without Jordan we love Kobe, except for the rape.

Nah, I disagree, I think Kobe's style of play (selfish) brought all the hatred to himself. This year I really believe he'll integrate the whole team more and will provide more success. But the past really broke his reputation, even during the title years.

I mean, don't we all love D-Wade and Lebron?

[justinandimcool]

I just realized, we're missing out on Kobe vs Raja tonight as well. Fuck you Kobe. Fuck you Raja. Most of all, fuck you Kwame Brown.

[justinandimcool]

I also just realized the Bulls are beating the Heat by 42 points. That is funny.

[dmbmuskie]

Nah, I disagree, I think Kobe's style of play (selfish) brought all the hatred to himself. This year I really believe he'll integrate the whole team more and will provide more success. But the past really broke his reputation, even during the title years.

I mean, don't we all love D-Wade and Lebron?

The thing is Jordan was every bit the prick Kobe is. Jordan was just smart enough to keep that out of the public eye.

I don't think Kobe is a selfish player, I just think his team stinks and he believes only he can make them a winner.

D-Wade and Lebron are still in their honeymoon stage with the public. Imagine if Kobe wouldn't have signed a max deal how much he would have got blasted.

[shakes03]

Well it's a good thing I put money on the Bulls: +5 1/2 under 189!!!! I'm rich bitch!!!!!


Ok, I'm going to win like 20 bucks, so maybe not rich but I'm still stoked............and drunk.


Anyway, the heat will pull it together after the All-Star break, they always do.

I can't wait until tomorrow for the Pistons to start!! Hopefully this will be the year that everyone realizes why I am going to name my first born Rasheed!!! :lol

[dmbmuskie]

I also just realized the Bulls are beating the Heat by 42 points. That is funny.

At first I couldn't find the game, and when I finally remembered it was on TNT it was already over.

[dmbmuskie]

Honestly, the Heat just have to find a way to win the Southeast and they'll consider the regular season a success. It would be a waste of their aging legs to try to win homecourt advantage, when they don't think they need it.

[justinandimcool]

The thing is Jordan was every bit the prick Kobe is. Jordan was just smart enough to keep that out of the public eye.

I don't think Kobe is a selfish player, I just think his team stinks and he believes only he can make them a winner.

D-Wade and Lebron are still in their honeymoon stage with the public. Imagine if Kobe wouldn't have signed a max deal how much he would have got blasted.

Eh, this Kobe-Jordan-Dwade-Lebron-Tmac topic is so iffy. Evereyone loves Jordan because according to you, he kept his pricky self out of the public eye, and he was the greatest player of all time. Wade and Bron are just as good, and the public loves them because they are as good, and they're everything Kobe's not when it comes to a good reputation. Everyone hates Kobe for 28274 different reasons. It makes my head spin really. That's why I really really hope this team steps it up this year.

[justinandimcool]

I love the new Staples Center lighting :thumbsup

[justinandimcool]

Fucking Andrew Bynum is so stiff. A step above Kwame though.

[justinandimcool]

This matchup still brings haunting memories.

[justinandimcool]

Gee, this looks familiar. Some nice offense and the worst defense I've seen in my life.

[marlin1805]

I'm picking the Bulls on being in the Finals, they look solid

[clayj41]

Gee, this looks familiar. Some nice offense and the worst defense I've seen in my life.

Yeah, giving up 41 points in the first quarter is pretty pathetic.

[justinandimcool]

^ No kidding.

Yet in the 2nd quarter I'm pleasantly reminded of a nearly forgotten fact: Lamar Odom is good.

[justinandimcool]

Whoa. Nice run.

[marlin1805]

The Lakers look somewhat ok tonight

[AFurth]

At first I couldn't find the game, and when I finally remembered it was on TNT it was already over.

When was that, the 2nd quarter?

muhahahahaha go bulls!

[shakes03]

Fucking Andrew Bynum is so stiff. A step above Kwame though.

Both should have went to college!!!

[justinandimcool]

The Western Conference needs a Designated Free Throw Shooter rule. shit.

[justinandimcool]

Both should have went to college!!!


Amen.

[1eyed_jack]

Eh, this Kobe-Jordan-Dwade-Lebron-Tmac topic is so iffy. Evereyone loves Jordan because according to you, he kept his pricky self out of the public eye, and he was the greatest player of all time. Wade and Bron are just as good, and the public loves them because they are as good, and they're everything Kobe's not when it comes to a good reputation. Everyone hates Kobe for 28274 different reasons. It makes my head spin really. That's why I really really hope this team steps it up this year.



are you saying wade and lebron are just as good as jordan?
if so that's not true.

kobe, wade and lebron may be equal in talent, but none but kobe demand the ball in clutch situation. people see that as aragont, and maybe it is, but truth be told that's how great players are.
kobe KNOWS he can make every shot. peyton manning KNOWS he can make every throw. ali KNEW he could beat anyone.

if you don't have that in you then it's awfully tough to be the best at what you do. i know wade and lebron are young, but as a rookie kobe KNEW he could make the shots he airballed. he may have missed them, but he still had the killer instinct to take them at such a young age.

in my opinion you can't teach that. you either have it or you don't. when the dust settles i think lebrons career will be similar to vince carter. wade is better though, he sort of reminds me of larry bird, not a lot but a little.
both of them need to learn how to play defense though, they get exposed quite often

[justinandimcool]

are you saying wade and lebron are just as good as jordan?
if so that's not true.

kobe, wade and lebron may be equal in talent, but none but kobe demand the ball in clutch situation. people see that as aragont, and maybe it is, but truth be told that's how great players are.
kobe KNOWS he can make every shot. peyton manning KNOWS he can make every throw. ali KNEW he could beat anyone.

if you don't have that in you then it's awfully tough to be the best at what you do. i know wade and lebron are young, but as a rookie kobe KNEW he could make the shots he airballed. he may have missed them, but he still had the killer instinct to take them at such a young age.

in my opinion you can't teach that. you either have it or you don't. when the dust settles i think lebrons career will be similar to vince carter. wade is better though, he sort of reminds me of larry bird, not a lot but a little.
both of them need to learn how to play defense though, they get exposed quite often

I love the enthusiasm in Kobe's favor, but this is such a tough topic. All 3 are still in their prime (perhaps Bron isn't even there yet). It's still hard to prove whether or not someone has "killer instinct" and in both Wade and Bron's defense they demanded the ball in clutch situations in the 2006 playoffs. Bron's winning layup against Washington, and of course Wade's amazing play in the finals. Kobe, well, I can't even count over the course of his career. But still, such a hard topic to argue on.



And the Lakers are looking goooooood. :)

[devilandthelord]

I'm really excited for the start of the Cavs season tomorrow night though. If ya'll couldn't tell by the recent work I've done to my av and sig.

[justinandimcool]

Please god, let the next 325 quarters this season be like this one.

[1eyed_jack]

I love the enthusiasm in Kobe's favor, but this is such a tough topic. All 3 are still in their prime (perhaps Bron isn't even there yet). It's still hard to prove whether or not someone has "killer instinct" and in both Wade and Bron's defense they demanded the ball in clutch situations in the 2006 playoffs. Bron's winning layup against Washington, and of course Wade's amazing play in the finals. Kobe, well, I can't even count over the course of his career. But still, such a hard topic to argue on.



And the Lakers are looking goooooood. :)

you mean the play lebron traveled on? :lol just kidding, he did though.


and yes it is tough to measure. really though i just feel most of the kobe hate comes from off the court stuff and that really sucks. so many people are shitty people but it never comes out like it did with kobe.
i mean give me one good reason why he had the second most 1st place MVP votes last year and finished fourth in the overall voting. that seems messed up to me

[UNC41]

are you saying wade and lebron are just as good as jordan?
if so that's not true.

kobe, wade and lebron may be equal in talent, but none but kobe demand the ball in clutch situation. people see that as aragont, and maybe it is, but truth be told that's how great players are.
kobe KNOWS he can make every shot. peyton manning KNOWS he can make every throw. ali KNEW he could beat anyone.

if you don't have that in you then it's awfully tough to be the best at what you do. i know wade and lebron are young, but as a rookie kobe KNEW he could make the shots he airballed. he may have missed them, but he still had the killer instinct to take them at such a young age.

in my opinion you can't teach that. you either have it or you don't. when the dust settles i think lebrons career will be similar to vince carter. wade is better though, he sort of reminds me of larry bird, not a lot but a little.
both of them need to learn how to play defense though, they get exposed quite often

You've got to be kidding me. Lebron's put up better numbers in his second and third years in the league than VC ever and has shown no sign of a player who will be a cancer.

[justinandimcool]

"Justin" Farmar scores!!!! :lol

[justinandimcool]

you mean the play lebron traveled on? :lol just kidding, he did though.


and yes it is tough to measure. really though i just feel most of the kobe hate comes from off the court stuff and that really sucks. so many people are shitty people but it never comes out like it did with kobe.
i mean give me one good reason why he had the second most 1st place MVP votes last year and finished fourth in the overall voting. that seems messed up to me

Like I said earlier, it's all reputation, and the whole driving out Shaq ordeal. Such a shame, but to be honest most is his fault. Only a championship (won with him being the main guy) will atone.

[justinandimcool]

I laughed when I found out we signed Maurice Evans this summer. I am pleasantly surprised tonight.

[1eyed_jack]

You've got to be kidding me. Lebron's put up better numbers in his second and third years in the league than VC ever and has shown no sign of a player who will be a cancer.

right, because saying that lebron reminds me of carter means that i think their stats are the same? i mean style of play moreso than numbers, aside from lebron obviously passing a little more. both are/were mainly hyped for their explosiveness around the basket, both can jump amazingly well. no one ever said look at how smooth lebrons jumper is, and same goes for carter

[1eyed_jack]

Like I said earlier, it's all reputation, and the whole driving out Shaq ordeal. Such a shame, but to be honest most is his fault. Only a championship (won with him being the main guy) will atone.


i don't think a championship will atone either. because they won't win one till they get some better players around him. and then the haters will say he can't do it alone he needs a good team to win for him.

and that being said lebron and wade are on FAR better teams than kobe, and it's not because they make their teammates better, they just are better

[1eyed_jack]

oh yeah




DA BULLS!

[justinandimcool]

i don't think a championship will atone either. because they won't win one till they get some better players around him. and then the haters will say he can't do it alone he needs a good team to win for him.

and that being said lebron and wade are on FAR better teams than kobe, and it's not because they make their teammates better, they just are better

I think a championship is VERY winnable with this squad. For serious. If they play like tonight the whole season (which can only improve greatly), with Kobe doing his thing in late quarters, oh man.

And no doubt about the teammate disparity, but that's not Wade or Bron's fault.

[justinandimcool]

oh yeah




DA BULLS!

That was impressive.

[justinandimcool]

Suns first quarter points- 41
We're in the 4th quarter now, points since- 44

I'm loving this.

[UNC41]

right, because saying that lebron reminds me of carter means that i think their stats are the same? i mean style of play moreso than numbers, aside from lebron obviously passing a little more. both are/were mainly hyped for their explosiveness around the basket, both can jump amazingly well. no one ever said look at how smooth lebrons jumper is, and same goes for carter

So both are explosive players with hops. LeBron's passing and rebounding ability, along with his court vision and nonselfishness make them completely different players in my mind. The one player in the league I find really comparable to VC is Jason Richardson.

[Dancing Ants]

um...

Chicagownd.

Lakeownd.

[devilandthelord]

Ya know what?
I gotta get something off my chest.
I HATE SHAQ.
Always have, but especially now.

He's so fucking arrogant and full of himself that it sickens me. Yes, he was a very good, dominant player for years. But for the last 3 years or so he has been a shell of himself, yet he still thinks he is the greatest player in the NBA.
I have gone on many rants to my friends about him before and maybe even on here previously (I dunno for sure).
Anyway, one thing that really kinda pissed me off/made me laugh was his interview on ESPN the other day where he said something to the effect of...

"I realized that the title of "the man" is not important, and now I got a young guy who can do it all. I used to put up huge numbers in Orlando, huge numbers when I first came to LA, but we didn't start winning until I started slowing down. The more I slow down, the more dominant I get, blah, blah, blah, nonsense...."

Let me analyze this and summarize for ya'll.

He says he realizes that the title of "the man" has no meaning or is not important because he no longer is the man, and is not capable of being "the man". If not for D-Wade there would have been no championship run last year, and he knows that. He just has to feed his own ego.
He put up huge numbers in Orlando and LA when he was younger because he was extremely physically gifted and in shape. He started to slow down because he got older, simply relied on his girth and illegal elbows to the face, and got hurt and out of shape.
The more I slow down the more dominant I get bullshit is a huge excuse/cover-up for him getting older, more out of shape and just overall a worse player, meanwhile D-Wade gets better and takes more pressure off of him. So by saying all this bullshit about getting more dominant as time goes by is an excuse for his numbers, minutes, games played, and overall quality of play to go down. He is definitely not getting more dominant.
I see him say he has 4 years left on his contract and that's what he's going to fulfill. Well good for him, but according to him we should expect him to slow down progressively the older he gets (which I know is to be expected with any player, but Shaq's arrogance really grinds my gears).

Which means if we take him by his numbers last year, in which he averaged career lows in points, rebounds, blocks, and minutes per game, (20ppg, 9.2 rebounds, 1.8bpg, which is still very good production for the average league center, but not Shaq) he should be slowing down every year for the next 4 as the Heat will be paying him $20 million dollars for each season.
Let's be generous and say that Shaq's numbers decline 10% each year as he gets older and continues to play (although it will likely be more severe as time goes by).

That would mean that by final year of his contract (presumably the end of his career), The Diesel will be averaging about 12-13ppg, 5-6 rpg, probably less than 1 block per game, and less than 20 minutes per game, and this may be generous in some areas. All the while the Heat will still be paying him 20 million dollars each year.
Wow, he will be really dominant by then, let me tell you.

Ok, I'm done. Phew! Thanks for reading if you did. I know some of you probably feel the same way I do about Shaq, and some of you probably think Shaq is great. Either way I'd love to discuss the Big Aristotle further if you like.

[UNC41]

The Heat would not be an elite team today if they had not traded for Shaq and given him the extension, so after last year's championship he's worth every penny of that contract even when he slows down over its remaining years.

[UNC41]

Odom's helped me out to a fast start in fantasy. With him and D-Wade I should be guarnteed to be leading at least one day thi season.

Hate all you want Justin, but Bynum has looked great tonight.

[justinandimcool]

Okay, surprising, fantastic, beautiful win. Odom, Evans, Bynum, Farmar, each very exciting to watch. Homework time. Same time tomorrow if I'm not busy.

[justinandimcool]

Odom's helped me out to a fast start in fantasy. With him and D-Wade I should be guarnteed to be leading at least one day thi season.

Hate all you want Justin, but Bynum has looked great tonight.


:thumbsup

My words are swallowed. For tonight.

[justinandimcool]

When Kobe comes back, lord knows how good this team can be. Please take care of Golden State tomorrow, just like this please. For serious, good night.

[UNC41]

For the Lakers to be successful I think Odom needs to continue to be as aggressive as he was tonight all season.