Bleacher Report - Articles by Shady Botros

NBA Fans: Be Thankful for This Season

Shady Botros — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 23:26:47 -0500

The NBA season has been great so far, and being the basketball junkie that I am I will be watching some NBA basketball come thanksgiving. However, I decided to write about what I’m thankful for in the NBA.

Be Thankful for the Young Stars

This may be the best class of 28 and under players this league has ever had. Think about it, has the league ever had this many players who are going to be good for the next decade. Going back to the 2003 draft class where LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh, and Carmelo Anthony were all drafted.

The league is currently set for the next 10 plus years with the young players. This class of 28 and under players includes many marketable stars, in fact more than the other two major sports.

The 2003 draft class was where it really started, that day the NBA would change forever. The young prodigy LeBron James was the first overall pick, the Detroit Pistons made the infamous mistake by passing over Carmelo Anthony for Darko Milicic’s upside. Then Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade the player who has probably been the best player in the league after Kobe and LeBron.

Ever since then LeBron is widely considered the face of the league, Carmelo Anthony has finally come into his own with Billups in Denver, Chris Bosh has become one of the best power forwards in the league, and Dwayne Wade rejuvenated the NBA in the city of Miami, he has become a top player in this league, and most importantly Dwayne Wade despite being slightly overlooked to the other three Wade is the first to a title so far.

And the best thing is that Dwayne Wade who is currently the oldest turns 28 in January.

The 2003 draft isn’t where it ends however, the next year a high schooler out of Atlanta named Dwight Howard went first overall. Howard has become the best center in the league. However he is still very raw.

Howard is only 23 and still hasn’t developed post moves. He has worked with Patrick Ewing to develop post moves; as soon as Howard develops his post moves he will elevate himself into being an all time dominant center. He’s already one of the best defenders in the league and has already won a defensive player of the year; Howard is destined to be the best center in the league.

The next year the league saw two young point guards enter the league in Chris Paul who slipped to fourth and Deron Williams went third. Paul has become the best point guard in the league and Williams slightly trails Paul. Paul rejuvenated the New Orleans Hornets by leading them to the playoffs and Deron Williams is currently leading a nice Utah squad.

The next years followed with stars such as Brandon Roy, Kevin Durant, who has potential to being the same class as the Kobes and LeBrons, and young point guard Derrick Rose and Brandon Jennings who has brought Milwaukee relevant again in the NBA, all of these guys are stars. The young players have this league set for the next 10 years.

Be Thankful for the Older Veterans

While the young guys are blossoming the older veterans are still playing solid basketball. You have guys like Kobe Bryant who is widely considered the best player in the league. You have Tim Duncan who is leading the Spurs, Jason Kidd still playing point guard at a productive level, and Dirk Nowitzki who is playing at an MVP like level.

Steve Nash has the Suns resurged, leading the league in assists and having the Suns playing run n gun ball again.

Then you have Kevin Garnett and the big three, the Big three led the Celtics to title, Garnett proved to be the missing piece for the Celtics squad, earned defensive player of the year in 2007-2008 season and provided great leadership for a Celtics team that was on a mission, helping Paul Peirce and Ray Allen get their first title.

Chauncey Billups led the Nuggets to the western conference finals and made them an elite team in the west.

And finally you have three older players joining contending teams in Shaquille O’Neal with the Cavs, Vince Carter with the Magic, and Rasheed Wallace with the Celtics, all the older veterans still playing at a productive level.

Be Thankful for the Dominant Teams

This year there are about six teams who could win it all. You have the Kobe and the Lakers, the big three and the Celtics, Duncan and the Spurs, Dwight Howard and the Magic, LeBron’s Cavs, and Carmelo and the Nuggets would be the sleeper potential title team.

Those are probably the best teams. Certainly if one of them stayed healthy nobody would be surprised if they made a finals run. Obviously the Spurs and Celtics are older tams who have been bit by the injury bug but if they stayed healthy it would not be surprising if they met in the finals.

Then you have the middle of the road teams who are a player away but could make a nice playoff run if everything goes right, you have the Atlanta Hawks, the Miami Heat, the Dallas Mavericks, and Portland. However, it will be very exciting when the top teams match up due to the parity at the top of the league.

Be Thankful for the Young and Upcoming Teams

While the Lakers, Spurs, Magic, Celtics, Cavs, and Nuggets are the class of the league, these teams will be the class of the league in a few years.

You got Portland with Brandon Roy and Lamarcus Aldridge both signed long term and a healthy Greg Oden. Oklahoma City led by Kevin Durant who has unlimited upside, Russell Westbrook who is becoming one of the best floor generals in the league, and Jeff Green who has developed into a nice player.

The Chicago Bulls with Derrick Rose who is currently banged up but will be a star, a healthy Luol Deng, and the tough gritty Joakim Noah leading the league in boards, Noah plays his heart out night in and night out, brings energy and toughness to a young Bulls squad.

The Memphis Grizzlies with young guns OJ Mayo and Rudy Gay to go along with big men Marc Gasol and Hasheem Thabeet, they have a nice future.

Even the Golden State Warriors who have a lot of talent, I’m not saying they’ll be a champion ship contender in the near future but they do have a lot of young talent with guys like Anthony Randolph, Stephen Curry, Anthony Morrow, and Monta Ellis. If the Warriors can get it together management wise they could be dangerous in the near future.

Be Thankful for the Storylines

Even when there is no basketball this league is still very entertaining. You have the whole free agent class of 2010 which could be the biggest free agent class of all time. The summer of 2010 free agent class is headlined by big names most notably LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh, Joe Johnson, and many others.

The whole will he or won’t he with LeBron whenever he visits a team that will be pursuing free agents in 2010. Then you have the guys who just signed like Ron Artest, Richard Jefferson, and Vince Carter.

The Shaquille O’Neal situation and how will he help LeBron, will the Cavs get better with Shaq? Then the rookie class led by guards like Brandon Jennings, Tyreke Evans, Stephen Curry, Ty Lawson, and Darren Collison, this may be one of the deepest classes of point guards. Plus the most touted rookie Blake Griffin hasn’t even made his much anticipated season debut yet.

Bottom line is that even if you are mildly interested in the NBA, there is always a reason to watch. Whether it’s the finals hunt, the young guys or some other off the field stuff there is a reason to watch the NBA. That’s why this year I’m thankful for the NBA and how far it has come, happy thanksgiving and make sure to watch some NBA basketball.

The End For the Answer: Allen Iverson Retires

Shady Botros — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:56:01 -0500

Stephen A. Smith of the Philadelphia Inquirer is reporting that guard Allen Iverson will retire. Iverson plans to move on from playing basketball and spend more time with his family.

It appears that this is how it will end for the Answer. His career started great and it’s sad to see his career end this way.

Here were Iverson’s statements about retiring "I always thought that when I left the game, it would be because I couldn't help my team the way that I was accustomed to. However, that is not the case, I still have tremendous love for the game, the desire to play, and a whole lot left in my tank. I feel strongly that I can still compete at the highest level."

After the fiasco in Detroit in which Iverson came out as a bad guy in Detroit after being shut down due to a “back injury”. Especially due how negative the press was about Iverson in Detroit and the way Billups rejuvenated the Nuggets.

The last season and a half have been a nightmare for Iverson. He was sent to Detroit in a trade that, now, looks extremely lopsided, released by them, and then signed with a team that perennially stinks.

All because he refused to come off the bench and his services are now refused due to being a me-first player with no interests of being a sixth man. The New York Knicks wouldn’t even offer him a contract.

The notion around the league has been that Iverson’s skills have diminished and that he’s lost a step. That is partly true, Iverson can now only play well against the guys he used to dominate.

This isn’t the same guy who stole home court for the Lakers and gave Sixers’ fans a chance that maybe they had a shot in this series.

However, Iverson believes that his skills are the same and that he is being blackballed out of the league due to his locker room influence and popularity among most players in the NBA.

The former first overall pick is certainly in the argument as the greatest small guard of all time although most would give the edge to Isaiah Thomas. Iverson is a sure fire first ballot Hall of Famer even though there are questions about how he will be remembered.

Does his legacy stay intact and will people remember him only for his days in Philadelphia?

No, because of the way he went out especially considering his quotes about coming off the bench saying he’d rather retire than come off the bench.

His legacy will change due to how the Billups-Iverson trade turned out and how Iverson looked like a bad guy after Billups almost led his team to the NBA finals. In addition to the fact that Iverson wasn’t there for his team in the end, because of Joe Dumars shutting Iverson down due to what was a back injury when we all know that the Answer would’ve fought off the injuries.

Iverson was also a guy who never adapted to the team but had to have the team adapt to him. In his last full season in the league he averaged 26 points and seven assists which would be great if it didn't cost Denver's young players to be influenced by a guy like Iverson in the process

He had to have the ball in his hands, he needed others to sacrifice their games, he needed all the minutes, and never liked coming out of a game which also earned him the reputation of being a coach killer.

However, I believe Iverson will be mostly remembered for the good. I watched Iverson rejuvenate Philadelphia as an NBA city. People came out to see Allen Iverson; not the other guys. Iverson took the crown from Jordan as the league’s most popular player and made kids growing up want to be Iverson; not Jordan.

It was the personality which made Iverson who he was. Good or bad, Iverson’s character had a great influence on the NBA. Iverson was a guy who stayed true to himself even when it resulted in people having negative opinions about him.

This guy was a warrior who put it on the line night after night fearlessly attacking the basket and played through numerous injuries while doing so.

My take on it, well it’s sad to see a guy of his stature go out this way. Basically he ran himself out of the league because he was never accepting a bench role.

If Iverson had been willing to accept that bench role he might be playing for a contender like Cleveland helping LeBron James by coming off the bench to give his team some scoring punch.

Do I think Iverson is 100 percent done? No. I think that if a contending team such as the Cavs or the Spurs called and said that they would be willing to offer Iverson a contract if Iverson was willing to take a bench role but knowing Iverson, he rather be retired than come of bench.

Well if it is, it was great to watch this guy play. From crossing up Jordan, to the 2001 finals, to the famous “Practice” speech, this guy will be missed in this league.

Every King Needs a Castle: Why Lebron Shouldn't Stay in Cleveland

Shady Botros — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:57:02 -0500

With LeBron James arriving in New York tonight, he gets ready to face one of the teams willing to throw him a max contract in the summer of 2010. LeBron will take on the Knicks on Friday night, primetime, ESPN, MSG, media, bright lights. The stage is set for the King as he looks to top the 50 point mark for the 3^rd time at the garden.

However, LeBron James plays for Cleveland and he won’t change jerseys at halftime. But there is hope, because unless you've been living under a rock you know that The King will end up in the highest bidders lineup when free agency hits this coming summer.

Honestly, I think that LeBron staying in Cleveland won’t do anybody any good—even if he wins it all this year. I know that it’s his hometown, I know thathe loves Cleveland and vice versa, but if LeBron chooses to stay in Cleveland, what will the rest of his career look like?

Let's say LeBron signs an eight year deal with the Cavs next offseason. As of right now, LeBron has no wingman—not even a respectable wingman. When Antawn Jamison rumors began circulating at the deadline last year, I thought he would have been a nice fit. Jamison is nearing the end of his career, however, and he might not be healthy enough. So I ask this question: who does LeBron have to grow old with?

In reality, LeBron has nobody to grow old with, no true wingman. I know Mo Williams was an all star, he's a solid point guard at most. Shaq is 37 and the Cavs are 3-3 with him. He limits Mo Williams' touches, making him more of a catch and shoot player and looks awful in transition defense—especially when he and Illgauskas are both on the floor. All this for a player who was supposed to be the big acquisition, or should I say Shaquisition.

Danny Ferry has not done the best he could to get LeBron his Scotty Pippen. Whether it was the whole Carlos Boozer mess or drafting Luke Jackson instead of Al Jefferson, Jameer Nelson, and Josh Smith.

I compare what Danny ferry has done to LeBron to what Sam Presti has done with Kevin Durant. Both landed guys who in my opinion will likely be the best overall players in the league, although Durant is only in his third year he has the potential to be right there with LeBron.

Presti and Ferry both came from the same organization. Both worked under R.C Buford in the Spurs organization. Ferry, who once looked like he had an illustrious career in the NBA coming out of Duke, and Presti, who was known as a hard working leader out of Emerson—a small division III school in Boston. However both have taken opposite approaches in building around their stars. Ferry has chosen to surround LeBron with veterans such as Shaquille O’Neal hoping for a championship now, while Presti has chosen to build around Durant with players who are near Durant’s age such as Russell Westbrook and Jeff Green—players who Durant can grow old with.

I could easily see LeBron becoming the guy who will win a handfulof MVPs, scoring titles, but never really win the rings he expected. He could be the guy who years from now you only remember a couple of good seasons—far from the Jordan-like legacy so many of us expect. With Oklahoma City's nucleus of young talent, it's only a matter of when Durant will claim his first championship. They are Portland 2.0—don’t be surprised if the Thunder realistically sneak into the playoffs this year. Meanwhile, LeBron has the pressure to win big now with a mediocre supporting cast.

I’m not necessarily saying LeBron should bolt Ohio for New York, in fact he might win a few titles for Cleveland. He might have his mind made up already and leave even if he does win, but the bottom line is that LeBron needs a player who can compliment him for the rest of his career, and I just don’t see that happening in Cleveland. Here are a few places where LeBron might end up.

New Jersey Nets-

I find the Nets to be the most suitable for the King. However they must—and I repeat must—move to Brooklyn to have a chance at LeBron. They have two building blocks who LeBron can grow old with in all star guard Devin Harris and seven-footer Brook Lopez. I’m assuming LeBron would love to play with a rare seven-foot shot blocking talent like Lopez. Big men are rare, and Harris and Lopez would be great compliments to LeBron's game.

New York Knicks-

LeBron loves to play in MSG; he wants to make it his house, like Jordan made it his house whenever he visited with the Bulls. LeBron would play well under Knicks head coach Mike D’Antoni, plus the Knicks could probably offer him a ton of money. LeBron would come to New York a savior, and build on his empire as the most recognized athlete in the biggest media market in the world.

Miami Heat-

This is a long shot because either LeBron or Dwayne Wade would have to take less money. A duo of LeBron and Wade is unimaginable. LeBron and Wade are probably the best players under 28 in the league and would possibly form the greatest duo of all time. Not to mention the presence of Michael Beasley, who still has a lot of potential. A Wade, LeBron duo would make Miami the immediate favorite to win the title

Los Angeles Clippers -

LeBron could come to L.A and form a big three with Blake Griffin and Eric Gordon. LeBron would make Kobe Bryant’s building his own, and create epic Lakers-Clippers showdowns in the Staples Center. Gordon and Griffin could potentially become tenured teammates of James and put the Clippers in future title contention.

The bottom line is, as you watch LeBron tear through the hapless Knicks tonight, keep in mind what could be as the summer of 2010 approaches.

2009-10 Western Conference Playoff Picture

Shady Botros — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:06:26 -0400

The West has always seemed to be the superior conference and this year is no different as the defending champs come out of the West.

This year should be no different.

Most of the top teams in the West refused to stay pat this offseason. The Lakers jumped at the opportunity to sign Ron Artest (five years, $33 million) and the Portland Trail Blazers inked veteran point guard Andre Miller (three years, $21 million). Meanwhile, the Spurs traded for Richard Jefferson on draft day, and the Mavericks added the versatile Shawn Marion as a part of a four-team deal, kept up by trading for veteran swingmen.

The West is always strong and as usual there will be some teams that will miss the cut despite records over .500. Take the Suns last year who won 46 games that would’ve guaranteed them a playoff spot in the East.

However, the West is a different game, so let’s preview.

1. Los Angeles Lakers

Consider that the Lakers made a nice run without getting much out of their young guys, Andrew Bynum and Jordan Farmar. Add Ron Artest to the equation, and you may have yourself a repeat.

The Lakers have added Artest, who should be their designated defensive stopper. If the scenario unfolds where they are playing against a star like LeBron James, Artest could guard him, allowing Kobe to stay fresh.

Another element that Artest adds is his character; there will be no complacency with a squad that includes two of the fiercest competitors in this league in Bryant and Artest.

With the talent, the leadership, and the experience, I think the Lakers are destined for another finals appearance, assuming everyone stays healthy. There is really no reason that prevents them from securing another Western Conference title and perhaps another ring.

2. San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs were decimated by injuries last season to key guys like Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili. Duncan (chronic knee tendonitis) was slowed most of last season and Ginobili (various injuries) was only on the court for 44 games.

However, the Spurs are reloaded and have increased depth by adding Jefferson, an ironman who hasn't missed a game in the past two seasons. They also added Antonio McDyess, who should help the Spurs rest Duncan and DeJuan Blair, a second round draft pick who should also help with rebounding.

The only obstacle keeping the Spurs away from a Conference Finals date with the Lakers is the injury bug, because someone on their injury-plagued roster is bound to get hurt.

Tony Parker had a career year. Can he do it again?

If the Spurs stay healthy, they should really challenge the Lakers. This Gregg Popovich-coached team should be primed for another season where they can be considered title contenders.

3. Denver Nuggets

With Chauncey Billups around for a full season, I expect Melo to make a huge leap this year. I expect Melo to be a contender for the MVP award and maybe even win it.

Last year, the Nuggets got to the Western Conference Finals, but they didn’t improve their squad in the offseason. The only noteworthy addition they made was acquiring rookie Ty Lawson from the Timberwolves on draft day.

The defending champ Lakers got better adding Ron Artest. I assume the Nuggets think that a full season for 'Melo and J.R. Smith with Billups means that they can make a leap forward. The Nuggets also lost Dahntay Jones who played tough, gritty defense that was a big part of the playoffs, as Jones really got in Chris Paul’s face in the first round.

The Nuggets could make it back to the Western Conference Finals, but I think that staying pat this offseason could come back to bite them.

4. Portland Trail Blazers

The young Blazers should finally be able to break through. They are now more experienced with guys like Brandon Roy and Lamarcus Aldridge a year older.

The key man is center Greg Oden who has yet to justify his No. 1 overall pick due to not being on the court. Oden was basically a rookie last year. He played 61 games and he was in foul trouble most of the time.

However, Oden did show flashes. The 21-year-old center averaged seven rebounds in 21.5 minutes, so we know he could easily average double digit rebounds if he’s on the court longer. He also averaged just under nine points per game. You have to assume that it would go up if he were to be on the court longer.

The Blazers must be patient with Oden. Big men don’t reach their prime until about 27 years old, and Oden will turn just 22 in January. He has all the talent, and if the Blazers can turn him into a solid center, they could rival the Spurs and Lakers in the upper echelon of the West.

The Blazers also added Andre Miller, who may not start due to the fact that he is not as good a shooter as Steve Blake. Personally, I think Miller should start because he is a rare pass-first point guard who should really benefit from Brandon Roy and Lamarcus Aldridge running their unstoppable pick and roll sets.

Bottom line is the Blazers are the future of the Western Conference, but as for now are probably still a year away from a legitimate shot at the Conference title.

5. Dallas Mavericks

Mark Cuban and the Mavs spent some money this offseason, resigning Jason Kidd and adding Shawn Marion and Drew Gooden. This season has a now-or-never type feel to it.

Superstar forward Dirk Nowitzki is now 31 but coming off a year in which he played at a first team All-NBA level. Floor general Jason Kidd is 36 and a major question; can he average double digits in points? Jason Terry is the reigning sixth man of the year and he’s 32.

Shawn Marion is 31 and got a five-year, $40 million deal which is a big risk as Marion is a player who relies on his athletic ability and turns 36 by the end of the deal which may not help for the long term. Marion will probably split time at the three and four depending where Josh Howard and Dirk play.

The key man is Josh Howard who is only two years removed from making the All-Star team. In games that Howard scores at least 20 points, the Mavs are 37-2 over the last two years.

The Mavs have a massive trade chip in Erik Dampier’s expiring contract and could get some value out of his $12 million price tag.

The Mavs have added nicely to their bench now. Although Terry was sixth man of the year, they got nothing out of their bench last year. There front office brought in Gooden to complement guards Terry, J.J. Barea, and Rodrigue Beaubois. The Mavs may have the best bunch of forwards, however, they struggle defensively and the loss of Brandon Bass won't help that issue.

I think Dirk and the Mavs are good enough for the fifth seed in the West. Despite not being young or deep enough to jump into the top three, they could be solid contenders in the conference.

6. Phoenix Suns

Shaq is gone.

A full season of Alvin Gentry, who was the one holdover from Mike D’Antoni’s staff in Phoenix, as head coach plus a healthy Nash and Amare means the fun of run-n-gun ball is back.

No, I’m not saying that the Suns are going to be title contenders, but nobody is picking the Suns to make the playoffs. They’re flying under the radar, and the big factor is that this year they can go back to the style that fits their personnel.

Last year was just a train wreck under former head coach Terry Porter, the players weren’t buying into the slower paced offense and that led to Porter’s firing during the All-Star Break.

This year’s Suns should be the same team when Alvin Gentry took over. They were five games over .500 and even better in a full season under their new leader.

A player nobody is paying attention to is center Channing Frye. Due to Robin Lopez’s injury, Frye should get significant playing time. With Amare healthy, Frye should be getting some space to get his open three’s.

Also expect Leandro Barbosa to contend for the sixth man of the year award. The Suns are going to try to keep Nash healthy so Barbosa may also get some time at the point.

The Suns are going to sneak up on some people this season. They’re healthy and now they have the right coach and the right system.

7. Utah Jazz

I can’t see a Jerry Sloan-coached team this talented not make the postseason.

The Jazz made big decisions this offseason. First by not trading Carlos Boozer and then having to take a loan to re-sign Paul Millsap—who plays the same position as Boozer.

If the Jazz want to even sniff the playoffs, they have to be healthy and it won’t be easy. Deron Williams says he is still bothered by his ankle injury and some experts say this is one of those long-lasting injuries, and Carlos Boozer never stays healthy, but it’s a contract year.

Although they have a great home record, they were an awful road team last year. I didn’t like the way the Jazz finished up last season, going 7-11 over their last 18.

The key is their health, however, I worry about the whole Millsap-Boozer thing plus the injuries.

8. New Orleans Hornets

Last year everything went wrong for the Hornets. This wasn’t supposed to happen.

Isn’t this the same team that had the second seed two years ago? Don’t they have a superstar guard in Chris Paul?

Well, things have changed since then. The Hornets severely underachieved last season, finishing seventh in the West.

This offseason the Hornets traded Tyson Chandler for Emeka Okafor, which may have upset Chris Paul, the franchise player. Also, Okafor hasn’t even played a preseason game this year and looks banged up.

However, I can’t see a team with two young All-Stars not make the postseason, but the problem is the Hornets won't get past the first round.

Phillies-Dodgers Series Preview

Shady Botros — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 18:02:05 -0400

The huge NL showdown is coming up as the Phillies and the Dodgers will meet on Thursday night in Dodger stadium. Over the course of the regular season, the Dodgers had the Phillies' number, as they earned the home field advantage.

However, things have changed since then, as both teams have made key additions and in the postseason, anything can happen.

Pitching

The Phillies will send in left-hander Cole Hamels, who has been inconsistent all year. Sometimes he looks like an ace; sometimes he has bad games. However, against the Dodgers, Hamels has been dominant. In 16 innings against the Dodgers, he has given up one run and 14 strikeouts. Hamels is the key; he has to be the Cole Hamels of old, which means he has to establish the changeup and get head on those Dodgers' hitters.

The crafty lefty, former Phillie, Randy Wolf. Wolf has the best opponent OPS against left-handers. And although he struggled in game one, he had a great bounce back year, posting a 3.23 ERA and going 11-7.

The big X-factor is the 21-year-old left-hander Clayton Kershaw. Kershaw has an overpowering fastball that can run up in the high 90s, and can absolutely dominate hitters. Although he gave up nine hits, it was his first postseason start and he managed to get out of jams giving up only two earned.

While the Dodgers lack the big names of the Phillies rotation, they have a very deep rotation that includes guys like Hiroki Kuroda, who could be back this series, Chad Billinglsely, and Vicente Padilla, who was spectacular in the clinching game three against the Cardinals with seven shutout innings, giving up four hits.

The Phillies rotation has a very strong top tow with Hamels and Lee. Lee has been dominant this season, giving up two earned in 16 and a third this postseason. Joe Blanton, who is likely to start game two, has posted very solid numbers this regular season, JA Happ, who struggled with his control in game one but posted great regular season numbers, and of course Pedro Martinez, who hasn’t pitched since Sept. 30th but has great postseason experience.

Overall edge—Phillies

I’ll give it to the Phillies if, and only if, Hamels shows up and pitches dominantly. It is very close because of the Dodgers' depth and the fact that they posted the best ERA over the regular season. But like I said, I love the Phillies' top two only if Hamels goes back to the Hamels of old.

Hitting

The Phillies can flat out hit the long ball. Howard, Utley, Ibanez, and Werth all hit over 30 homers. The Phillies showed what they could do late in games; they got to closer Huston Street late in the game two nights in a row.

The Dodgers also have a few young hitters of their own in Loney, Kemp, and Andre Ethier, who all drove in over 90 runs. Ethier has had a great year being the big clutch hitter late in games for the Dodgers; however, Ethier has been held versus left-handers batting a mediocre .194, Ethier really hurt Brad Lidge earlier in the season. Look for the Phillies to bring in Scott Eyre if Ethier were to get an at bat.

The big question mark is Manny Ramirez. Manny had an awful slump ending the season; however, Manny had a solid series going 4-for-13 against the Cardinals. Manny is the ultimate postseason hitter with a career .286 postseason career average. Plus, Manny went 8-for-15 in the Phillies' series last season, for the Dodgers to win, Manny has to step up.

Overall edge

I’ll give it to the Phillies, I know the Phillies are too reliant on the long ball, but I love the Phillies' middle of order. It’ll be interesting to see how the young Clayton Kershaw, who has given up six earned in 10 innings (amounts to a 5.23 ERA), does in this matchup. And then there is Cole Hamels, who has dominated the Dodgers even in his mediocre 2009 season, giving up one earned in 16 innings.

Bullpen

This isn’t even close; the Dodgers' bullpen may be the best bullpen in the major leagues, they even have hard-throwing Jonathan Broxton.

However, the Phillies have hit Broxton, and he’s given up two runs in three innings against the Phillies.

The Dodgers also have the two left-handers in the back end of the pen: Hong-Chih Kuo, who has a 3.00 ERA and deadline acquisition George Sherrill, who has a 1.70 ERA and has pitched three shutout innings against the Phillies. One thing to look for is if the Dodgers' bullpen may be burned out; they have pitched a ton of innings.

The Phillies' bullpen is a mystery. It has really been a bullpen by committee. Charlie Manuel has gone with the hot hand. But the big question is Brad Lidge. I still wouldn’t let Brad Lidge face a left-hander, plus Lidge has gone 3.2 innings, eight hits, and three earned against the Dodgers this season. Maybe Manuel will go with Madson, but it’s a mystery.

Overall edge—Dodgers

No question I want to go with the Dodgers' bullpen where I know what I’m getting, while the Phillies' bullpen is more of a roll of the dice.

Prediction—Phillies in 7

I’ll go with the Phillies' intangibles. I think they have the "it" factor; they know how to win games no matter what. However, I would not be surprised at all if the Dodgers won. Each team has their strengths and weaknesses, not much really separates these teams, and it should be a great series.

Is Bobby Abreu The Best Offseason Signing?

Shady Botros — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 12:59:14 -0400

There he was waiting for anyone to grab him. He was just sitting there, waiting for someone to make an offer. It wasn’t until February 11th that Bobby Abreu signed with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, and he produced all right.

The former All Star signed a measly one-year, $5 million contract, compared to the $16 million he had made the previous year with the Yankees. Looking at all the offseason acquisitions, I really think Bobby Abreu was the best value.

While Abreu was waiting, Milton Bradley had just cashed in on a three-year $30 million deal about a month earlier. Bradley’s struggles with the Cubs have been well-documented. While Abreu was giving the Angels bang for their buck, Bradley was shut down by the Cubs in late September.

Again, I have to repeat that anyone could’ve had this guy—anyone. While the Cubs got the least valuable player of the year, the Angels got a player who hit .293, posted an on-base percentage of .390, slugged .435, stole 30 bases, drove in 103 runs, and hit 15 homers—compared to Bradley’s .257 average, .378 on base, and .378 slugging.

Now, the Cubs are looking for any taker on Bradley’s baggage and his hefty contract, while the Angels got the best value for really nothing.

Another guy who also cashed in this offseason was Pat Burrell. Burrell signed on January 6th with the Tampa Bay Rays for a two-year deal worth $16 million. Burrell was also a huge disappointment, missing 40 games compared to Abreu’s 10. Burrell disappointed Rays’ fans as he hit .221, posted a .315 on-base percentage, and slugged only .367. Burrell power also never showed up, evidenced by his 14 homers, and drove in 64 runs.

The guy who cashed in the most was Manny Ramirez. No, I’m not saying Abreu is a better player than Manny, I’m just saying Abreu was a much better value and had a better year. Manny was making about $24 million, compared to Abreu’s $5 million.

Obviously we all know Manny missed 50 games due to the suspension, but even during his time Manny wasn’t the Manny of old. Manny batted .290, and drove in 63 runs, though he did post higher slugging and on-base percentages than Abreu.

Abreu was making only $5 million and posting great numbers. Looking at a lot of teams this year, most of them would’ve jumped on Abreu the first month of free agency had they known they could get a top outfielder for a pittance. In fact, if it weren’t for the economy, Abreu may have gotten more than a year.

Bobby Abreu really is the best offseason signing this year.

Pedro to Get the Nod for Game Three

Shady Botros — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 19:10:27 -0400

Charlie Manuel decided to go with Pedro Martinez for game three, no surprise.

However my problem is that Manuel maybe over-managed the game. The reality is Charlie Manuel threw two starters in JA Happ and Joe Blanton, while they were losing. I’d rather see this happen while Manuel was trying to eat innings to get it to the ninth.

Why not go with Durbin or Madson who both tend to eat innings while the Phillies are behind?

Now Pedro Martinez will have to pitch in cold weather conditions that may include some snow. Pedro is built for the big moment, however in Pedro hasn’t pitched since September 30th, and in his last two starts Pedro has given up a combined 13 runs in seven innings.

The good news is that there is a shot the game gets pushed back due to the possibility of the aforementioned snow. Another note is that Joe Blanton pitched only 19 pitches—basically a warm up session. JA Happ only pitched four pitches and hopefully the knee is fine.

Taking the hill for the Rockies will be 27 year old Jason Hammel. For the season Hammel posted a 10-8 record with a 4.33 ERA.

Over the course of the regular season Hammel had two starts against the Phillies, his first start against the Phillies was on April 11th where he went two-and-two-thirds with five hits while his second start against the Phillies was on August 4th, in which he went six and two thirds with nine hits and three earned allowed.

In Game 2 the Phillies simply didn’t hit Aaron Cook; they didn’t do what they did in game one which was to manufacture runs. The Phillies were too reliant on the home run while Colorado’s top of the order, with Dexter Fowler and Gonzalez, were playing National League baseball and creating runs. The Phillies need to manufacture runs early, and try to get to Hammel early in the game.

Although the Phillies lost and they are going to Colorado, expectations remain high, and it is not time to panic in Philadelphia.

Penn State Shockingly Falls To Iowa in Big 10 Opener

Shady Botros — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 00:06:39 -0400

After a full year of waiting for revenge, Penn State got its opportunity, and they fell short. After a first play 79 yard touchdown from Darryl Clark to Chaz Powell, it all went downhill for the Nittany Lions.

Penn State failed to stop the run as they gave up 163 yards on the ground, giving up critical runs late in the game. While Penn State’s rushing attack did not look good as running back Evan Royster only had 69 yards on 17 carries.

Both defenses played solidly, but before kickoff this looked like an unwinnable game for Iowa as they were heading into Happy Valley in a white out, in the prime-time game, and revenge looming in Penn State’s minds.

Quarterback Darryl Clark, who had waited for this night so long, was shut down by an Iowa defense that just seemed to pressure Clark play after play. Clark only completed 12 of his 32 passes while throwing 3 interceptions. It looked a lot like Darryl Clark last season against Iowa.

After a personal foul penalty Penn State had gotten the ball on Iowa’s 36, and Evan Royster fumbled after trying to get some extra yardage. Another critical point in the game was a blocked punt by Iowa defensive end Clayborn who ran it back 51 yards for a score.

Later, Clark was intercepted again with over four minutes left on the clock. Clark looked red hot after completing his first five passes, and then he went cold finishing the game 12 of 32. However, Iowa’s defense settled down after the first play and they came into Happy Valley determined to get a win. After the first quarter Iowa forced Penn State to three straight three and outs, including a safety.

Missed opportunities were what shot Penn State in a game they were destined to win; however, Penn State can still make a run at a Big 10 title. The road is tough, but they will have to beat Ohio State in a game that will probably decide who wins the Big 10.

The Philadelphia Eagles Can Win If...

Shady Botros — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 22:03:50 -0400

As the Eagles get ready to face the Saints, without Donovan McNabb most people are picking the Saints as the line has changed in the Saints' favor. The Eagles will probably start the unproven Kevin Kolb, plus they go against a Saints offense led by the most prolific quarterback in the NFL today.

However, while I am picking the Saints to win this game, the Eagles can win with Kevin Kolb under center. It will be very tough but it can be done. If the Eagles stick to this game plan than they will have a chance to win this game.

Protect Kevin Kolb

The Eagles offensive line did a solid job last week. Left tackle Jason Peters started out shaky with two false start penalties but started to look as advertised. While Shawn Andrews and Todd Herrmann’s did not play, fill-ins Nick Cole and Winston Justice looked solid.

Kevin Kolb can’t be rushed into any of his throws. Kolb doesn’t have the quick decision making skills, nor does he have a really quick release. If Kolb is provided with good protection, he may be able to take care of the ball and not turn it over.

Get the running backs involved

We all know that Andy Reid loves throwing the ball, we all know even with Kolb playing he’ll still call a bunch of pass plays. What I’m saying is Reid probably won’t just call run a bunch of run plays. However, what he can do is call a lot of screens to Brian Westbrook and Lasean McCoy.

Westbrook looked very good last week, averaging about five dollars a carry. Lasean McCoy also looked great with 46 yards on only nine carries. Usually when a rookie quarterback is playing expect a lot of conservative plays, if the Eagles can get it to third-and-short by effectively running the football.

Don’t expect Kolb to make a third-and-long pass down the field, run the ball effectively and get it to third and manageable and call a screen play or a short pass to one of the versatile running backs.

Play good defense

A lot of the game will be in the defense's hands, and it will be a tough task as this Saints team has the ability to win 10 games based on its offense. However, the Saints are playing on the road in the Eagles' home opener, tough environment, and everyone knows that the Saints' passing attack is different on the road.

Drew Brees lit up the Lions defense for six touchdowns last week, while the Eagles defense dominated against the Panthers. However, both teams were going against subpar units, the Eagles went up against Jake Delhomme who has been a turnover machine lately, and the Saints went up against a Detroit defense that struggles defensively.

If the team plays good defense and sticks to this game plan, than the Eagles will have a solid chance to win this game. Donovan McNabb should not play in this game as he risks the chance of making it worse, McNabb is a tough guy, if he sees an opening on third-and-short, he’ll look to run and then a defender will try to really hit McNabb hard. The Eagles will really have to step up against an improved Saints team, however, it should be a good game as it will be the Eagles' home opener.

The Answer Finally Finds a Home, in Memphis

Shady Botros — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 15:40:27 -0400

Allen Iverson has finally found a place to play. After an offseason of waiting for a team like the Heat, Bobcats or Knicks would make an offer to him, Iverson announced the signing via twitter. Iverson gets to go to a team with absolutely no playoff aspirations while also being in the twilight of his career.

Obviously Iverson raised a huge red flag after the fallout in Detroit and his comments saying he’d rather retire than come off the bench, the Grizzlies have said that Iverson has backed off a little off the statement, another reason that Iverson is getting $3.5 million, much lower than his $21 million from a year ago.

While Iverson isn’t the player he was in his prime, he can certainly help a team due to his ability to score. However the Grizzlies don’t need him to do that, the Grizzlies already have OJ Mayo, Zach Randolph, and Rudy Gay who can all score.

Reality is, this was strictly a financial move; this is a team that struggles desperately to sell tickets. The arena is nearly empty night after night.

This is a team that needs fans in the arena. Nobody in Tennessee is talking about the Grizzlies, it’s all Lane Kiffin and the University of Tennessee, and an upcoming season of Titans football, and this creates some interest in fans, especially younger fans that grew up watching Iverson in his prime.

However basketball-wise, this makes zero sense to me. You’re basically putting Iverson, who is a known as a high volume shooter, with Rudy Gay, a young forward who is trying to become elite. Then add OJ Mayo who likes to gun it up—and your young point guard Mike Conley who you’ve invested so much money will get less time to develop. On top of all that you also have one of the most selfish players in the NBA in Zach Randolph.

A pairing of Iverson and Randolph should be very interesting if not coach killing. Randolph loves to gun it up, loves to think about himself, and loves to pad his stats.

Are there really enough basketballs to go around? Can Iverson coexist with three other scorers?

All these questions when by midseason the team will probably stink again and the attendance may be the same.

Iverson is coming off an extremely disappointing season and has much to prove. This will wither be a transition year where AI will finally realize what the second half of a career is like, or whether he can still be a top player even at the age of 34.

While he’s not going to a market like New York or Miami, or one of his other desired situations like Charlotte, at least Iverson avoids the infamous Latrell Sprewell situation, and gets a chance, after the Detroit fallout.

The NBA's Five best young and upcoming teams

Shady Botros — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 23:17:40 -0400

Right now the Lakers, Spurs, Celtics, Cavs, and Magic are the class of the league, what all these teams have in commons is a veteran nucleus, to go along with a mix of young talent. The teams I’m looking at are the teams who may be the class of the league in a few years. These teams have the core players, the young talent, however lack the veteran leadership. While these teams may not contend now, they will be dominant in a few years, once the young talent develops.

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10 NFL Players Under the Most Pressure in '09

Shady Botros — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 22:00:51 -0400

The dog days of August are here, which means, baseball pennant races are heating up, and football season is upon us as preseason football is underway. However the real pressure starts after week one, when every game does count. I’m going to focus on ten players heading into this season with a lot of pressure, whether it be the hot shot rookie, or the player who just cashed in this offseason, some guys are going to be expected to perform better than others.

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Breaking News: Michael Vick Signs Two-Year Deal With Eagles

Shady Botros — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 20:56:06 -0400

Chris Mortensen of ESPN is reporting that Michael Vick has signed a two-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles. The news was just reported by Mortensen about 10 minutes ago.

Vick has been out of the league for about two years now due to the dog fighting charges. Vick has been serving time in jail.

While Vick has been out of the league, he is only a few years removed from being the highest paid player in the league, and the former No. 1 pick in the 2001 draft.

Vick’s suspension has been conditionally lifted by Commissioner Roger Goodel.

Of all the teams, the Eagles were not one of the teams who showed any interest. However, everybody deserves a second chance and Vick has shown remorse.

I also wonder how quarterback Donovan McNabb will react after the benching.

Does he worry about his job security? Does he want to share reps with Vick? How would you feel if you were in Vick’s situation?

This probably shuts the door on Kevin Kolb, who was the acclaimed the quarterback of the future, and will also be a distraction in camp which really isn’t the style of the Eagles organization.

Football wise I don’t know what to expect. He probably doesn’t have the laser arm, or the 4.3 speed anymore. Will he play out of the wildcat or as a quarterback, and will he start?

As for the national reaction, how do you feel about this signing?

Does this make the Eagles the laughing stock of the NFL?

How do you feel as an Eagles Fan?

How big of a distraction will this be?

Just a few questions to think about.

Ranking the Eastern Confrence's "Middle of the road" teams

Shady Botros — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 20:44:40 -0400

The middle of the road teams, these are the teams that aren’t good enough to win it all, but are good enough to make the playoffs. Everyone knows the Lakers, Spurs, Cavs, Magic, and Celtics. But these are the guys they’re going to have to get through. I’ll take a look at these teams and rank them.

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Pedro Martinez to Make First Start Wednesday At Chicago Cubs

Shady Botros — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:57:05 -0400

The Phillies have just made the announcement that right-hander Pedro Martinez will make his first start in a Phillies uniform Wednesday against the Chicago Cubs in Wrigley Field.

JA Happ will start tomorrow. His last outing was a complete game shutout against the Colorado Rockies; ironically the start came on the same night in which Pedro fanned 11 batters in the minor leagues.

Happ may have saved his job in the rotation.

It is almost certain that Jaime Moyer is headed out of the rotation; Moyer has been regarded as the weak link of the rotation as he is 10-9 with a 5.47 ERA. Moyer would be headed to the bullpen.

However, the big question to me is how Jaime Moyer will fare out of the pen.

Moyer is 46 years old and he would probably take longer to get loose since he’s a starter, and the transition from starter to reliever is pretty tough as Moyer will get a different workload.

Where does Moyer fit in the pen? Will he be a setup guy, or possibly a long man. That remains to be seen.

Whatever the outcome, it’s unlikely that either Moyer or Pedro will make a start in the postseason as the Phillies will probably go to a four-man rotation, unless Pedro out pitches Happ or an injury occurs. It is yet to be seen how the 37-year-old Martinez will pitch in his first big league start of the year.

How Much Parity is There Really in Baseball?

Shady Botros — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 22:45:43 -0400

I’m a big baseball fan, and while baseball remains a great sport, it’s not perfect/ of course there is the taint that is the steroid era, however that’s not what I’m here to write about. Parity and equivalence makes baseball more entertaining, however does it really exist in the game or is it a misconception.

It’s a misconception, while as of today the pennant races are nowhere near being over, but let’s look at the contending teams, division by division. As will see, it’s very rare that small market teams are still contending this time of year, as teams with high payrolls are out of the hunt.

AL East

While the Sox and the Yanks are battling out right now, they stand one and two respectively in the AL East. The Tampa Bay Rays are very much in the hunt while ranking 25th overall in payroll.

However it’s no coincidence that the Yankees and red Sox are at the top because this past off season the Yankees made the three biggest splashes acquiring CC Sabathia, Mark Teixeira, and AJ Burnett, and the Red Sox went out and spent some money acquiring John Smoltz, and Brad Penny while extending some of their current players.

It also remains no coincidence that the Orioles rank 23rd in payroll and dead last in the
AL East.

AL Central

The Tigers are currently in first place with a two-game lead over the White Sox, ironically the Tigers are fifth in payroll, and the White Sox are 12th, both in the top half playing in big markets. The Twins are the exception as they’re four and a half games out of first place, while ranking 24th overall in payroll.

However, the Kansas City Royals are 21st overall in payroll while being dead last in the AL Central. And the underachieving Indians are 15th in payroll, which shows how bad they are underachieving while teams like the Rays and the Twins remain in the hunt.

AL West

The Angels are at the top and seem to be running away with the division with a four and a half game lead over the Texas Rangers. The Angels are sixth in payroll, while the Rangers are exception as they rank 22nd in payroll but are only two and a half games out in the Wild Card; however they have been a bad team for a while and have completely built from the farm system.

Also no coincidence that the Oakland Athletics are dead last in the division and rank 26th overall in payroll.

NL East

The Phillies rank first with a seven-game commanding lead in the NL East, ranking seventh in payroll. The Mets are decimated by injuries as they have the most talented disabled list which includes core players like Jose Reyes, Carlos Delgado, and Carlos Beltran, however on paper the roster is a playoff contender, they rank second in payroll.

The Mets were able to go out and spend big money on Francisco Rodriguez. While the Marlins are just a bit better than a .500 team, they rank dead last in payroll which is near 37 million, that’s less than half the Yankees infield.

NL Central

The Cubs and Cardinals are in a dead even tie, however payroll wise they are far from that, the Cubs rank third in payroll, while the Cardinals are 13th. The Pirates are last in the Central and 28th in overall payroll as they are strictly rebuilding for the future.

NL West

The Dodgers hold a commanding six game lead over the Giants, the Dodgers rank ninth in payroll, making their big splash in the offseason resigning Manny Ramirez. Again no coincidence that the Padres are dead last in the division twenty two and a half games back, while ranking 29th in payroll.

The conclusion

Parity is existent in baseball but it’s obvious that teams playing in big markets have a huge advantage. Teams contending in small markets like the Rangers and Rays have to build from the farm, however it seems that there will be no team like last year’s Rays this season.

Manny and Ortiz Tested Positive For Steroids in 2003

Shady Botros — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:23:45 -0400

According to a New York Times report, Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz both tested positive for steroids in 2003.

If you didn’t know, the 2003 list of people who tested positive included 104 names that included Alex Rodriguez whose name came out in April. Both were the deadly 3-4 punch in the Red Sox lineup during championship seasons in 2004 and 2007.

It had been known that Ramirez had been taking some type of substance as he tested positive earlier this season and served a 50-game suspension. It may sound like I’m bragging but it was very obvious that Ortiz had been taking steroid since he had gone from a nobody player who the Twins dumped.

Before Ortiz joined the Sox he was a nobody player who struggled defensively, his career high had been 20 homers.A year later the numbers jump from 20 to 31 and steadily shot up. In 2006 he hit 54 homers, and finished third in the MVP voting.

My question is, isn’t it obvious that a 26-year-old guy who never topped 20 homers, and then 4 years later he hit 54 took something to help him out? Those are astronomical numbers considering what he was before.

I hate to take shots at Big Papi because almost everybody was rooting for that 2004 Red Sox team. But does this taint their 2004 and 2007 World Series titles. My other question is if you are a Hall Of Fame voter would you vote either Manny or Ortiz to the Hall. To you does this taint their careers, and the Red Sox championships.

Race For an Ace is Over: Phillies Acquire Cliff Lee From Indians

Shady Botros — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:13:29 -0400

According to Fox Sports writer Ken Rosenthal, the Phillies and the Indians have reached an agreement that would send Cliff Lee to the Phillies in exchange for four minor-league players: pitchers Carlos Carrasco, Jason Knapp, infielder Jason Donald, and catcher Lou Marson. The deal is currently pending a review of medical records.

Many were wondering why Carrasco was scratched from his start in AAA Wednesday morning, while Donald and Marson were scratched from the lineup. Knapp, who turns 19 in August, is sidelined with an injury, however he is seen as the key piece of the deal, and he can throw about 97 mph and currently has one of the best strikeout ratios in all the minor leagues.

This means the Phillies got the ace they wanted without giving up any of their top prospects that were requested by Toronto. There is a possibility the Indians could send the Phils cash to cover part of Lee’s salary.

Philadelphia acquires the reigning AL Cy Young, who beat out Roy Halladay for the Cy Young last season, without giving up any of their top three prospects: Dominic Brown, Kyle Drabek, and Michael Taylor. Lee has the best ERA since the start of the second half, as he also leads the majors in innings pitched with 152 2/3, and a 3.14 ERA, despite posting a 7-9 record.

On top of Lee, the Phillies got the right-handed bat they needed in Ben Francisco.

My question is, does this make the Phillies the favorite in the National League, better than the Dodgers and the Cardinals?

In my mind this deal puts them over the top and does make them the favorite in the National League, as the Phillies get the ace they need.

Who's More Expendable: Drabek Or Happ?

Shady Botros — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:15:52 -0400

As the deadline approaches the rumors are surfacing and the race for an ace continues whether it’s Roy Halladay or Cliff Lee. But it would certainly take one of these two, JA Happ and Kyle Drabek—if not both.

But the question is who is more expendable: Happ or Drabek? If you had to give up one, who would it be? The Phillies would certainly have to give up one if not both in order to acquire the much needed ace they need.

The case for keeping Happ

JA Happ has been the best pitcher in the pitching staff with a 7-1 record, posting a 2.97 ERA and a 1.18 WHIP. Happ has been crucial to the Phillies success as the other pitchers have struggled. Happ’s thrown many quality starts including a complete-game shutout against the Toronto Blue Jays in Toronto, which means that the Blue Jays may prefer Happ.

Happ has shown great improvement and a scout said that before the season he looked like a poor man’s Andy Pettitte, but now he looks like something more than that. Another reason to keep Happ is because it is very tough to try to make a run at another World Series after subtracting a piece of your current Major league roster.

The case for keeping Drabek

Personally I think that I would rather keep Drabek, if I can. JA Happ is a No. 3 pitcher at best while Drabek projects as a top of the rotation pitcher. Kyle Drabek’s ceiling is much higher than JA Happ’s ceiling, in fact some people feel that JA Happ’s value will never be this high again, as he is pitching much better than projected.

Drabek is currently 21, while Happ turns 27 in October. Drabek is currently the best prospect in the Phillies system and some have called him the best pitching prospect since Cole Hamels. Drabek has a ton of potential, with a plus fastball and a plus curveball. Drabek has been tearing through the minor leagues after coming off a season in which he had Tommy John surgery posting a 11-2 record with a 2.78 ERA in AA and AAA.

The Blue Jays are asking for both and the Phillies seem to think that’s too much, but even a trade for Cliff Lee would involve Kyle Drabek. The Phillies have made it no secret that they would rather keep Drabek than Happ as they proposed a counter offer that included Happ not Drabek.

So my question to you guys in who would you rather keep, JA Happ or Kyle Drabek?

Pluses and Minuses of Adding Roy Halladay Into Contending Teams' Equation

Shady Botros — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 12:19:45 -0400

I wrote a recent article talking about two trades that may affect what JP Ricciardi decides to do. Does he bite the bullet on an offer that doesn’t “wow” him? Recently Ricciardi has been denying that trading Halladay is likely, saying that it’s a slim chance that he’ll deal Halladay and it’s a gut feeling that he’ll keep Doc. But insiders and analysts are saying that Halladay has to be dealt before the deadline and that Ricciardi is getting a sense of urgency, because reality is that Doc’s value is at an all time high, and as soon as the clock hits 4:01 his value plummets. I’ll break down all the suitors, why I will and why it won’t happen.

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Matt Holliday Traded To St. Louis Cardinals

Shady Botros — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:43:31 -0400

Albert Pujols will finally get some help behind him.

The St.Louis Cardinals have dealt prospects Brett Wallace, outfielder Shane Peterson, and righty pitcher Clayton Mortenson, to acquire left fielder Matt Holliday.

Holliday, who is 29 years old, becomes a free agent after this season. He’s currently batting .286 with 11 homers and 54 RBI; however, he has been on a hot streak batting .344 in the month of July.

Pujols leads the league in intentional walks, but now the Cardinals have an All-Star caliber cleanup hitter to provide some protection for Pujols.

As you may remember, the Oakland Athletics acquired Holliday in hopes of turning around their offense, and possibly auctioning off one of the hottest bats at the time of the deadline. However, Holliday struggled and rumors surfaced that he didn’t like the environment in Oakland, and wanted to go to a more passionate environment like St. Louis.

In my opinion, both teams got what they wanted.

The Cardinals got a hot bat that will provide protection for the best hitter in the game, and possibly put them over the top without giving up Colby Rasmus, whose name surfaced in trade rumors. The Oakland A’s get Brett Wallace, a young third baseman ranked as the 21st prospect in the country by Baseball America.

This deal gives both teams what they wanted and further strengthens the Cardinals in the NL Central. The Cardinals maintain a game and a half lead over the Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros, this deal certainly makes them the favorite in the tight NL Central.

Two Past Trades That May Affect Roy Halladay's Future

Shady Botros — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:36:17 -0400

Unless you’ve been living in a rock, Roy Halladay rumors have surfaced and it seems a number of teams are involved. Blue Jays general manger JP Ricciardi has been asking for a steep price to get the Toronto ace. I will look back at two trades that may affect what Ricciardi will do with Halladay at the trade deadline.

The Johan Santana trade

In February of 2008, the Mets acquired left handed ace Johan Santana from the Minnesota Twins in a deal built around Carlos Gomez plus Phil Humber, Kevin Mulvey, and Deolis Guerra.

The Twins were offered a deal by the Yankees that included Phil Hughes, and the Red Sox had offered the Twins a deal that included Clay Buchholz. Hughes and Buchholz project as top of line aces, while Gomez still has a lot of potential, he’s a career .250 hitter, with an on base percentage under .300, not exactly what they wanted in the first place but it was the only option.

The Twins could’ve made a deal with Boston or New York earlier, but by the time they were ready to let him go, those offers were gone. My point is as soon as the clock goes past 4, Santana’s stock plummeted, as will Halladay’s, because you get him for two pennant races instead of one. It may be a difference of one A level prospect instead of two.

Minnesota clearly could’ve gotten more had they dealt Santana earlier; JP Ricciardi may be asking for too much which makes Halladay’s value at an all time high, right now. But not for too long, as soon as the clock hits 4:01, his stock goes down. Ricciardi said that he has a gut feeling that Halladay won’t be dealt, but it only takes one team to step up and make an offer.

For a team to step up and make the offer, they must have two things. You must have the prospects to give up, and you must have the payroll to take Halladay’s hefty salary. The Phillies have both, with prospects like Kyle Drabek, and Jason Knapp, they need pitching help and they have the motivation and the payroll not only for two but maybe even signing him long term to an extension.

Another team I would consider is the Brewers although we haven’t heard anything serious due to the fact that they do not want to trade top level prospects like Mat Gamel and Alcides Escobar, Brewers GM Doug Melvin has let it known he will not give up either after giving up Matt LaPorta last season. However, Melvin may bite the bullet and a 1-2 punch of Yovani Gallardo and Halladay is almost unbeatable. But they still do have the $100 million that they offered Sabathia which may mean they could get Halladay and sign him long term. Keep an eye for the Brewers.

The Josh Beckett for Hanley Ramirez trade

This deal was a while back, but this deal proves why a team like the Phillies should go out and pull the trigger on Halladay, even if they have to overpay for him. The Red Sox had to give up Hanley Ramirez, Anibal Sanchez, Harvey Garcia, and Jesus Delgado, plus giving up Guillermo Mota for Mike Lowell.

Hanley Ramirez was considered among the top prospects in the country, but ask yourself this question, would the Red Sox have won that World Series without Josh Beckett, and the 2007 World Series MVP Mike Lowell, the answer is absolutely not. I call this the perfect trade for a reason, at the time the Sox were looking for key players who would put them over the top to win a world championship, and the Marlins were looking to dump salary and rebuild around the piece they were getting.

Which is why a team like the Phillies needs to get Halladay, his window is their window. Looking back on this trade it was a situation where both teams won big. The Red Sox would not have won that World Series without Beckett, and Lowell, and the Marlins now have the best short stop in the game. Ramirez has become one of the best players in baseball, he has been a centerpiece for the Marlins to build around and be a contending team by the time they get to their new ballpark when Hanley will be in his peak years.

A team like the Phillies or the Brewers can’t hesitate because of prospects, even if you have to overpay for him. Halladay takes the pressure off Cole Hamels, and provides a nasty 1-2 punch of Hamels and Halladay. He changes a pennant race, if the Phillies get him, they are the favorite in the Major Leagues, if the Angels get him they are the favorite in the American league, if the Red Sox get him, they are the favorite in the Majors, same with the Yankees.

What I’m saying is these trades I looked at prove my point, especially the Hanley for Beckett trade. If I’m the Phillies, Kyle Drabek may be a nice pitcher, but I’ll take Halladay. Same goes for Clay Buchholz, nice prospect; I’ll still take Halladay, Joba Chamberlain, and Phil Hughes, take both of them. These teams have the chance to win a World Series with Halladay.

If the Phillies do get Halladay, they are the favorite this year and next year, which would give them the chance to win three straight World Series which is almost impossible. You will probably have to overpay to get him, but he’s absolutely worth it.

Steve Nash and Phoenix Suns Agree to Contract Extension

Shady Botros — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:58:42 -0400

Steve Nash has agreed to a two year, $22 million extension. Nash had been offered an extension two weeks ago by owner Robert Sarver. The signing is expected to be announced through Nash's twitter page.

This shoots down all rumors of Nash reuniting with Mike D’Antoni in New York, as Nash was set be part of the infamous 2010 free agent class, where D’Antoni would make a push to lure Nash.

The Suns had also flirted with trading Nash to a team like the Knicks, but were never serious. Instead, Nash chose the security of the extension keeping him with the team that drafted him out of Santa Clara.

This is a great move for Nash who is 35 years old, and also gives the Suns stability at point guard. Nash is coming off a season in which he averaged about 16 points per game, with 10 assists. However, Nash looked tired late in the season as he was forced to carry the team.

The extension would end when Nash is 38 years old, which makes it very likely the two time MVP will retire as a member of the Suns; however the Suns drafted in the lottery last season. If the team fails to reach the postseason, will this make them a contender?

The answer is no, the Suns have had a quiet offseason with the signings of Channing Frye and resigning of Grant Hill. The Suns also drafted Earl Clark, the forward out of Louisville. In the end the Suns remain, at best, a borderline playoff team.

Now that Nash has been locked up at an extension, Amare Stoudamire is next. Suns general manager Steve Kerr will try to get Stoudamire to sign an extension with the aim of building a contending team around Stoudamire.

Yao Ming to Have Surgery, Will Possibly Miss All 2009-2010 Season

Shady Botros — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 13:40:36 -0400

Houston center Yao Ming has elected to have surgery on his fractured left foot. After several opinions from doctors, Yao decided to have the surgery which would reduce stress on his ailing extremity.

Cavaliers center Zydrunas Ilgauskas had the same surgery eight seasons ago, and hasn’t suffered another fracture since.

The question is what the Rockets do now. Yao has not only been the face of the franchise, but has also been the face of the NBA when it came to spreading the NBA brand globally.

Yao was drafted first overall in the 2002 NBA draft, and was set to be the building block for the Houston Rockets franchise.

The Rockets committed to Yao by surrounding him with talent like Tracy McGrady and Ron Artest. Now what do the Rockets do? They have lost their franchise player, and even if he does come back, he may never be the same.

The Rockets are going to have a season in which they try to rebuild on the fly, without Tracy McGrady until the second half of the season, and Yao for possibly the whole season.

The Rockets have no one to rely on for scoring punch next season. Trevor Ariza would be the best option to build around.

Now the Rockets lost their three leading scorers from last season, and Luis Scola is the current leader in scoring average, averaging just under 13 points per game.

Can you rely on Trevor Ariza to be a legitimate No. 1 option for next season? Also, Tracy McGrady‘s time with the Rockets will likely come to an end after next season.

Beware Rocket fans, as much of a success last season was, it will be a long shot if the Rockets just miss the playoffs next season, as expectations will be low.

The Philadelphia Phillies 2009 Midseason Report

Shady Botros — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 23:56:58 -0400

The overview

With the Phillies sweeping the Pirates, we are now officially at the midway point. The Phillies stand at a 48-38 record, atop the NL East by 4 games, however the NL east hasn’t been a strong division this season. The Phillies have improved at home after a horrible 13-22 start; they stand at 22-23 after a terrific 9-1 home stand.

The Phillies have benefited of a very injured Mets team missing half their payroll with notable injuries of Carlos Delgado, John Maine, Carlos Beltran, and Jose Reyes.

Overall the Phillies have been outstanding on the road, and about .500 at home. The Phils however have been the class of the NL East despite having a sub .500 record at home. Here’s an in-depth overview of how the Phils season has gone so far.

The pitching

Overall the Phillies pitching has not been stellar. The team has an overall ERA of 4.64 which ranks 25 overall in the majors.

However Phillies general manger Ruben Amaro Jr. has let it known that the Phillies are in the market for a starting pitcher, in fact the Phillies are expected to sign free agent Pedro Martinez soon, and are rumored to be interested in the Roy Halladay sweepstakes.

The ace Cole Hamels has been extremely inconsistent. While he has pitched some good games in which he looked like an ace, but most of his games, he hasn’t went deep into the game, and he’s been hit hard. Hamels has a 4.87 ERA, allowing 117 hits in 98 innings, not the numbers of an ace.

While Hamels hasn’t looked like an ace, the other young lefthander JA Happ has. Happ originally started the season as a reliever but eventually replaced Chan Ho Park in the rotation. After a solid outing today, Happ improves to 6-0, with a 2.90 ERA, allowing 70 hits in 87 innings, making a strong case for rookie of the year.

Joe Blanton has been up and down, but has looked good lately. Blanton is 6-4 with a 4.44 ERA. The other starts haven’t been great, Jamie Moyer has had his struggles but like last season Moyer has a 8-6 record with a 5.99 ERA.

Rodrigo Lopez has had two starts, leaving his last start after five innings of work. Lopez had a stellar first start against the Mets. Other starters like Antonio Bastardo and Chan Ho Park didn’t last long due to frequent struggles.

The bullpen has been inconsistent; guys like Ryan Madson and Brad Lidge have had major struggles at one point. Lidge was terrible for the beginning of the season and still hasn’t returned to 2008 form, although he has shown flashes of 2008, he currently has 7.03 ERA.

Madson was great as a set up man, but came to the closers’ role when Lidge went to the DL and really got hit hard. Chad Durbin has been inconsistent with a 4.47 ERA; JC Romero has been strong since coming back from his 50 game suspension with a 3.14 ERA.

One positive note is that Chan Ho Park has settled into the long reliever role, pitching quality innings.

The hitting

Unlike the pitching the hitting has been great. The Phillies offense ranks leads the NL in homers, and runs scored. The offense has carried the team at some points, in fact the Phillies have been very resilient and a great comeback team.

The leadoff hitter Jimmy Rollins has struggled although he has got it going in the month of July, betting .381. However Rollins is batting a mediocre .228 with a mere .285 on base percentage.

Rollins is traditionally a slow starter and tends to do better in the second half, but if the Phillies expect to score some runs, it makes it a lot easier when your leadoff hitter is on base, and Rollins has actually been walking a lot lately.

Chase Utley was the Phillies most productive offensive player, and really stepped up when Ibanez went down. Utley is batting .310 with 20 homers and 61 RBI, earning his fourth all-star start, and becoming the premier second baseman of baseball. Utley has also been strong defensively, with only 2 errors.

Ryan Howard earned another all star appearance, with a .258 batting average, with 22 homers and 66 RBI. Howard lost 25 pounds since last season, and it has really shown with his defense, as he has made some very nice plays only making 4 errors.

Last season Howard had to carry the team late in the season, this season he hasn’t. a huge reason is the new acquisition of Raul Ibanez. Ibanez has made the fans forget about Pat Burrell.

Ibanez has been able to do things that Burrell wasn’t able to do like playing the full game due to his solid defense. Ibanez has been a clutch hitter providing big hits late in the game. Ibanez is leading the team in batting average and homers, batting .314 with 22 homers and 60 RBI, despite being on the DL for some time.

Overall the Phillies have sent five all stars, three outfielders, while Utley, Howard, and Ibanez get most of the credit. Shane Victorino and Jayson Werth have been the underrated all stars, earning their first all star appearances.

Werth has certainly been a surprise hitting 20 homers and 56 RBI, his previous career high in homeruns is 24, he’s on pace for a 30 plus homers, 100 plus RBI season.

Team MVP—Chase Utley

It was tough picking this one, but I went with Utley because he really stepped up offensively when Ibanez went down. Utley would get some serious consideration if Albert Pujols wasn’t in the league.

Utley has become the best second baseman in baseball. Batting .310 with 20 homers and 61 RBI, Utley earned his fourth all-star appearance, not to mention his stellar defense at second base.

Team LVP—Jimmy Rollins

The 2007 MVP is this year’s LVP. Until Charlie Manuel sat him for four straight games, Rollins had been the team’s worst hitter. Rollins batted .167 in June, .238 in May, and .207 in April. He’s started to get it going, batting .381 in July. Rollins needs to get it going, because he’s the catalyst for the offense.

Second half prediction

I will make a bold prediction that the Phillies will win the division, if the Mets get healthy it may be a case of too little too late. The Marlins are too young, and the Braves don’t have that big bat.

If the Phillies make a trade for Roy Hallady they are a lock to make it to the NLCS. If Pedro Martinez is signed and becomes a reliable starter to go along with Hamels and Hallady, this team will be favored in almost any playoff series.

The Phillies' task right now is to improve the starting pitching, to go along with the great hitting in place in order to make another run at a world championship.

MLB's Top Five Pleasant Surprises of the First Half

Shady Botros — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 14:06:44 -0400

Remember last season’s Tampa Bay Rays, the team that went from worst to first, ultimately coming just short of the World Series. I could remember how America was rooting for them to win the tough American league East against tough teams like the Yankees and Red Sox. Well this year has been no different as there have been some pleasant surprises including some great first half performances performances.

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Critiquing the 2009 MLB All-Star Selections: NL Edition

Shady Botros — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 18:51:50 -0400

If you haven’t read I gave you my take on the American league all star rosters. For the most part I thought the fans got it right. So why not do the National league, I’ll give you guys my take on how the fans did in the National league voting.

National League

Catcher: Yadier Molina

I know Yadier is a great defensive catcher, but Brian McCann who has missed a lot of games due to his eye problems is having another great year. Batting .304 with eight homers and 33 RBI, McCann is outhitting Yadier in all categories. Fortunately McCann got in as a reserve, but he deserved the start.

First base: Albert Pujols

No problem here, who else. As good as the first basemen in the NL are, Pujols has looked unnatural hitting the cover off the ball in almost every at bat. The stats are incredible, making Pujols a threat for the Triple Crown. Pujols is batting .336 with 31 homers and 82 RBI. Enough said—I can’t see anyone not voting for Pujols.

As for the people who say Ryan Howard shouldn’t have been to the game, well Charlie Manuel is simply returning the favor to his player who helped him get his ring. Plus it’s in St.Louis, Howard’s hometown.

Second base: Chase Utley

Again the fans did a great job; Chase Utley is hands down the best second baseman in the National league. Utley has become the premier second baseman making his fourth start at second base. Utley has had nothing short of an all star year batting .301 with 18 homers and 55 RBI, not to mention his .426 on base percentage. The closest completion for Utley would be Orlando Hudson who isn’t even close to Utley.

Third base: David Wright

The pick of Wright was OK, it was the popular decision, but I think there was a third baseman that was more deserving than Wright. Pablo Sandoval should’ve been the starter, not only did Sandoval not get the start, he get the snub. He wasn’t even selected as a reserve.

Not putting Sandoval in is a crime. His stats more than hold up when compared to Wright, and if it weren’t for the dumb rule saying that every team must have a representative, getting Ryan Zimmerman a trip to St.Louis over the more deserving Pablo Sandoval. Who is outhitting Wright .333 to .326 compared to Zimmerman’s .293. You be the judge, Sandoval simply got robbed.

Shortstop: Hanley Ramirez

The fans made the right decision with picking Hanley Ramirez over Jimmy Rollins. A Jimmy Rollins pick would’ve been like the Josh Hamilton pick in the American League. Hanley’s been having a great year batting .346 with 16 homers and 60 RBI. Hanley is more than deserving of the start.

Outfielders: Carlos Beltran, Ryan Braun, Raul Ibanez

I think the fans did OK, but at what point do you stop voting for 2 outfielders who haven’t played in over two weeks, why wouldn't those poeple vote for Joey Votto who has been out for a while, but was on a tear batting .364 until he got hurt. Brad Hawpe deserved the start regardless of who was injured. It’s uncertain whether Ibanez will play due to his groin injury, and Beltran is unlikely to participate in this year’s even due to his injury. This means I have to guess who should start instead of Beltran and Ibanez assuming both don’t play due to their injuries.

I would assume that Brad Hawpe would be first in line to start if somebody was injured; Hawpe is batting .327 with 13 homers and 56 RBI, and has established himself as the most underrated player in baseball. Justin Upton would be the next in line to start if both outfielders were injured. The young star is batting .300 with 14 homers and 45 RBI; however it’s really strange how the fans still kept voting for Ibanez and Beltran ignoring guys like Brad Hawpe’s great years.

Pitchers, who should start? Who got snubbed?

Obviously I’m not going to go over all the pitchers, but the starter should be either Lincecum or Dan Haren or even Matt Cain. You can’t go wrong with either, but how did Jason Marquis and Ted Lilly get in over young studs like Yovani Gallardo and Johnny Cueto. Here are the stats for the four.

Marquis: 10-5, 3.87 ERA, 1.31 WHIP

Lilly: 8-6, 3.32 ERA, 1.14 WHIP

Gallardo: 8-5, 2.75 ERA, 1.15 WHIP

Cueto: 8-4, 2.69 ERA, 1.12 WHIP

As good as Marquis and Lilly are pitching, it’s obvious Marquis got in based on his 10 wins. Ted Lilly’s ERA is much higher than Cueto or Gallardo’s.

Stats don’t lie and they say that Gallardo and Cueto should’ve got in. I’m sure both young arms will eventually get in, but I thought that Gallardo or Cueto, at least one was a lock for the game, they really got the snub.

Critiquing the 2009 MLB All-Star Selections: AL Edition

Shady Botros — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 18:38:49 -0400

With the all star rosters announced, I’m going to break it down position by position for the AL and give you my take on whether the fans got it right, or if I have a problem with it.

American League

Catcher: Joe Mauer

No problem with Joe Mauer, who I think is the best player in the American League. Mauer is more than deserving of the starting catcher spot. Mauer is batting .390 with 14 home runs and was the best choice.

Victor Martinez is having a nice year, but Joe Mauer is having what may be a historic year with his .390 batting average.

First base: Mark Teixeira

This one I did have a problem with, and this is the curse of the fan voting. Teixeira is having a great year, but for two reasons he shouldn’t be starting. No. 1, he didn’t get it going until A-Rod returned from his injury. The other is that Justin Morneau and Kevin Youkilis were both having better years.

While both are tied with 20 homers, Morneau is batting .320 compared to Teixeira’s .278, and Youkilis’ .306. I would’ve given the start to Morneau, but the fan voting denies the Twins’ first baseman the start.

The snub would have to be Carlos Pena, which shocked me when Joe Maddon did not take his own first baseman.

Second base: Dustin Pedroia

This is another one that bothers me a little bit. While Pedroia is the reigning A.L. MVP, I don’t think he deserved to be in this game—at least not starting. Pedroia is far from his MVP form—he’s only batting .290 with 3 homers and 36 RBI. Those aren’t bad numbers, but two second basemen have simply out-played him.

Aaron Hill should’ve got the start, but because he plays for a small market team, and the all star game is up to fan voting, he didn't get the nod. Hill’s stats more than hold up when compared to Pedroia’s; Hill is batting .299 with 20 homers and 59 RBI.

Ian Kinsler is the huge snub—he wasn’t even picked as a reserve, but he may be the last player selected. Kinsler is batting .256 with 19 homers and 51 RBI. You be the judge; personally I don’t believe Pedroia deserved to be in the game due to Kinsler and Hill being better.

Third base: Evan Longoria

No problem here—it seems that A-Rod has passed the torch to Evan Longoria. Get used to seeing this guy starting at third for a long time to come. With a stat line of .293 with 16 homers and 63 RBI, Longoria is absolutely the best third baseman in baseball, period.

Shortstop: Derek Jeter

While the future Hall of Famer is an obvious pick, it wasn’t the absolute best pick. Jeter has a solid .308 batting average, and the pop has been there with his nine homers.

However, Jason Bartlett is the biggest surprise of the year, batting an astounding .362. He also edges out Jeter in the RBI category—Jeter’s 32 to Bartlett’s 37, and in on base percentage, Jeter’s .384 to Bartlett’s .402.

And by the way, Bartlett has played in fewer games. Not to mention Bartlett’s defense, which has been outstanding. Bartlett should be your starting shortstop, but like Morneau he really got the snub because Yankee fans stuffed the ballots.

Outfielders: Jason Bay, Ichiro Suzuki, Josh Hamilton

Bay and Suzuki definitely deserved to be on the team; however, Josh Hamilton has done nothing this year. Hamilton is a great story, he may be the best athlete in the league, he put on a great show in last season’s home run derby, but Hamilton has only played 35 games this season. Hamilton’s stats in those 35 games aren’t even all star material—batting .240 with six homers and 24 RBI.

I’m not even sure if Hamilton will be healthy enough to play in the game. I would give the nod to Torii Hunter, Carl Crawford, or Adam Jones who are all batting over .300, or Curtis Granderson, who has become a serious home run threat. Unfortunately, though, you can only play three outfielders at once, and the A.L is stacked with quality outfielders.

I wouldn’t mind seeing Hamilton, but he didn’t earn it.

Pitchers: Who should start?

To me it comes down to three guys—Greinke, Halladay, and Hernandez, with Verlander just short. I was leaning towards Greinke due to his 2.00 ERA, but I thought of it this way, if you have one game you need to win, who do you throw out there?

The answer would be Doc Halladay.

Halladay’s stats are on par with Greinke—both have 10 wins. Greinke has a better ERA, but I have to go with Halladay due to the fact that I believe that he’ll give you two very solid innings, and he’ll look un-hittable when he takes the mound. Greinke has never been an all star, and I just think Halladay is the best pitcher in baseball right now.

However, you can go either way, and I would not have a problem with it. The A.L pitching is quite deep this year.

Ron Artest Headed to L.A

Shady Botros — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 20:10:05 -0400

CBSsports.com is reporting Ron Artest is saying that he will sign with the Lakers and leave the Houston Rockets. The latest rumor was that LeBron was recruiting Artest. Artest had texted ESPN.com saying “I’m happy to say I’m going to L.A”

Artest’s decision to leave Houston was made when Yao Ming’s injury status was announced. Artest had realized that he would be the only scoring option on a average Rockets team, and you thought it couldn’t get worse in Houston.

The Lakers get a very talented player in Artest who I consider one of the best defenders on the league. With Kobe Bryant and company you’re talking about a favorite to repeat. This basically eliminates the idea of Trevor Ariza coming back. Now the Lakers will have to decide whether to resign Lamar Odom. With Odom, Artest, Kobe, Gasol and any point guard, this squad will be virtually impossible to guard.

This makes the Lakers a favorite over the Spurs who just got Richard Jefferson, and the Cavs and Magic who just made big moves of their own.

Deals with the Detroit Pistons: Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva Agree

Shady Botros — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:51:36 -0400

With the Pistons having the most money to work with this off season, it was no surprise Joe Dumars let it be known that next year’s team would have a new look.

The Pistons had 39 wins last season, and that just won’t do it.

This morning, sources said that Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva were both being shown around the Pistons facilities.

Gordon, at 26 years old, was the Bulls' leading scorer last season, averaging about 21 points per game. Many said that Gordon would return to Chicago if he was given enough money, but he rejected the Bulls' offer to re-sign him.

Gordon was actually looking for a reason to leave Chicago, since he was not happy with how the team handled his contract, but did work with Kirk Hinrich and Luol Deng.

Gordon would bring a scoring punch that the Pistons thought they were getting with Allen Iverson. Many of us will never forget the epic overtime games of the Bulls-Celtics series this postseason in which Gordon averaged nearly 25 points per game, was virtually impossible to guard, and was hitting every clutch bucket the Bulls needed.

A few days ago, the Milwaukee Bucks showed that they were willing to let Charlie Villanueva move on.

The 24-year-old has a great inside-outside game which creates many match-up problems. He has a smooth jump shot from the outside, and he can go in and score down low.

Villanueva is coming off his best season, in which he averaged 16 points and eight rebounds per game.

However, like Gordon, Villanueva’s commitment to defense is questionable. But he is extremely talented and provides the Pistons with a younger replacement for Rasheed Wallace.

Next year’s Pistons will certainly have a new look, new players, and a new coach. TNT analyst Doug Collins is the current front-runner for the Detroit job, although Avery Johnson and other candidates have emerged.

The Pistons will now shift their priorities to signing Antonio McDyess, although teams like the Spurs, Celtics, and Cavaliers are rumored to be interested.