NBA at the Break: Midterm Grades

The Rockets got off to a not-so-surprising tough start, but have surprisingly turned things around. The point guard situation has been resolved with Rafer Alston the only healthy body remaining. The team still has Jeff Van Gundy’s defensive mindset infused in the back of their brains, and they’re becoming much more comfortable with Rick Adelman’s offensive system. Still, the team is one major injury away from reverting to also-ran status.

Indiana Pacers: C-

The Pacers are right about where they were projected to be, but the team still needs to get rid of Jermaine O’Neal, Jamaal Tinsley, Troy Murphy, and commit to a full-fledged rebuilding process. At least Mike Dunleavy has developed into an impressive and heady player.

Los Angeles Clippers: D+

Their season was over before it began with Elton Brand down for the duration. Still, the team is a veteran-laden team with no hope of competing for a playoff spot. The Corey Maggette situation is still a distraction, Sam Cassell trade rumors are a distraction, Tim Thomas is still a bonehead, and the team doesn’t know if they should keep the core and build around Brand for next season, or if they should blow things up. The Clippers are back to being their hopeless, inept selves.

Los Angeles Lakers: A+

All their young players are playing with supreme confidence. Derek Fisher’s presence has taken the pressure of Kobe and has allowed the kids to develop. And Kobe’s finding the balance between facilitating to a point of passiveness and being aggressive to the point of alienating his supporting cast. No playoff team from last year has improved themselves more than the Lakers.

Memphis Grizzlies: C-

The Grizzlies are just as bad as people expected them to be. At least the team has an opportunity to find out whether or not Rudy Gay can be their go-to scorer. Since the team is blowing up the roster to get young athletic talent or expiring contracts, expect Mike Miller to be shipped out before year’s end.

Miami Heat: F

Has any team disappointed more? Blame Pat Riley the GM for believing that Pat Riley the coach could succeed with one injured superstar, one has-been superstar, and one role player who does the most when less is needed of him. The youngsters can’t play in the league and the veterans are washed up. And this is the same team that won a championship less than two years ago?


Milwaukee Bucks: D

With all the offensive firepower on the roster, you would think the Bucks would be closer to a playoff spot than they are. The team has too many scorers, not enough role players, and not enough toughness. Plus, they’re chumps on the road with a league-worst 23 losses away from the Bradley Center.

Minnesota Timberwolves: C+

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