Bleacher Report - Articles by Mick Miller

Marc Stein To The Rescue

Mick Miller — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 06:00:00 -0500

Marc Stein is one of the few NBA writers at ESPN (along with Chris Broussard and J.A. Adande) that I actually respect. He's candid, he does his homework, he sticks to his opinions (except for his power rankings, which obviously must fluctuate week-to-week), and he knows the league as well as anyone.

When Marc Stein says or writes something, I pay attention. There's a reason that he—and not any of the jack-offs I'm about to mention—is the senior NBA writer at the four-lettered network.

Unlike Chris Sheridan, he doesn't have massive orgasms whenever somebody mentions "LeBron James" and "New York" up to 745 words apart in a conversation. Unlike Tim Legler, he doesn't just spew B.S. only to flip-flop every day, just to hear himself talk. Unlike Ric Bucher, he doesn't say or do stuff that any idiot off the streets could do for free. Unlike John Hollinger, he doesn't just throw numbers together and make sweeping generalizations without knowing anything about the game itself.

Adrian Wojnarowski doesn't write for ESPN, but he would be treated like the dude who steals this guy's scooter if we had our way.

That's why when Stein wrote a feature on Friday regarding LeBron James and 2010 (our faaaavorite topic, right?), he had my attention:

The Cavs, though, are still in a pretty good spot. James, for starters, is a certifiably proud Ohioan, which has to help. What happens if they make one more trade for one more difference-making sidekick this season or next? What happens if they actually manage to win it all once before LeBron's contract expires? The Cavs better have a convincing championship plan to hit James with when he's free to leave, because the closest thing to a sure thing in this whole process is what we were told this week by one source close to LeBron: "He knows that championships will determine his legacy." Then again, they're not that far off with what they've got right now to surround their potential 22, 10 and 10 guy.

We're convinced that this could all be much worse for Clevelanders, too, no matter how they've suffered for decades in various stadiums and arenas. Lusting after their LeBron isn't personal, or even original. Orlando lived with the same panic and insecurities every day of Shaquille O'Neal's first four seasons, except for one crucial difference.

The Magic Kingdom's Hall of Fame-bound, larger-than-life superstar, if my recollections are right, sure seemed more determined to leave than LeBron does.

The main purpose of Stein's brilliant article was to point out that it's still too early for anybody to lock in any plans a good 600 days before LeBron is a free agent. He pointed to the example of how Kobe Bryant was supposed to be traded to Chicago in October of 2007 and eight months later was playing in the NBA Finals alongside Pau Gasol in a Laker jersey.

Let's get this straight right now: LeBron is not going to Detroit. He's also not going to East f'ing Rutherford, New Jersey, no matter who the 1.47 percent minority owner is.

When this crap started at the beginning of LeBron's career, it was all about the "endorsement kicker" in his Nike contract. Some said it was bull, including, at first, our guy Brian Windhorst back in the Akron Beacon Journal. But to a casual bystander, LeBron James in New York or Los Angeles made sense—at least, as much as it pains me, compared to Cleveland.

But Detroit compared to Cleveland? East Rutherford, New Jersey?

Back during the first go-round of this nonsense during LB's rookie contract, we tirelessly pointed to several things.

First, the fact that under the league's Collective Bargaining Agreement, no team can offer LeBron James more money than the Cavs. It's called the "Larry Bird Rule," and it's the very definition of homecourt advantage.

It would have come into play with Carlos Boozer had Boozer been with the Cavs for at least three years, which makes the fact that Gund and Paxson didn't pick up that team option in '04 even the more baffling. But I digress.

The Cavs will be able to offer roughly six-years and $152 million in 2010. When you want to talk numbers for 2010, that's the trump card. Any other team—any other team—with ample cap room can offer no more than five years and roughly $110 million. Do the freaking math. LeBron would be leaving $42 million on the table.

If there's a Nike kicker coming, that's still a lot of money to make up. Still, it makes sense if he left that money on the table to go to New York (but as discussed earlier, it's way too early to channel your inner Chris Sheridan just yet). But Detroit? The Cleveland Plain Dealer's Bud Shaw put it best:

I can think of three reasons James would be interested in leaving Cleveland for Detroit.

1) He thinks it's too tropical here.

2) He likes the shape of their potholes better.

3) He'd like to see Canada from his porch.

Think about the massive illogic behind a move for LeBron from Cleveland to Detroit: Less money, crappier city, boring basketball team, and fans who think they can take Ron Artest. There's no place like Detroit. Especially in Game Five of the '07 Eastern Conference Finals.

The Nets?

The Nets have been trying to move to Brooklyn for, like, five years now. We heard back in 2005 that they'd be there by 2008 when LeBron was supposed to become an unrestricted free agent (many haven't learned from their mistakes the first time around, but oh well). Now, this:

In the last month, three pieces of news have surfaced about the Nets and all of it may contribute to doom for their dreams of getting James' interest despite what you may read, listen to and see elsewhere.

First, a New York appellate court cleared a lawsuit to go forward that will further delay groundbreaking of the Nets' Brooklyn arena for at least six months. James, of course, piqued interest over the summer when he said his favorite New York borough was Brooklyn. Nary a mention of the Bronx, home of his supposed beloved Yankees, or any community in Jersey where the Nets currently play in perhaps the most dilapidated arena in the NBA.

The $1 billion Frank Gehry-designed Brooklyn project, which once promised to be opened by late 2009, now may not be ready until the 2012-13 season, a full two seasons after James' free agency. But, in reality, there's a chance it may never open at all.

Second, the New York Times reported the Nets' $400 million arena naming rights deal with Barclays Capital has a clause requiring financing to be settled by the end of this month. The team owner and Cleveland native, Bruce C. Ratner, has been tussling trying to get bonds for the arena, part of his $4 billion Atlantic Yards development. Barclays recently said it is still supporting the project, but here's two things you don't want to be doing these days if you are a real estate developer: attempting to get new financing or re-negotiating terms with an investment bank.

Third, the New York Daily News broke a story this week that Ratner met with investors earlier this year in an attempt to sell controlling interest in the Nets to cash out some equity. No word on whether Jay-Z wanted to dump his minor investment in the team. The Nets denied it but the Daily News stood behind their source, an investor who said he listened to Ratner's pitch.

When I talk about "doing your homework" and "thinking for yourself" before you let the mass media stuff B.S. down your throat, this is what I'm talking about.

Since Dan Gilbert took over the Cavaliers as owner, the bar has been raised infinitely for the entire organization. The arena, the technology, the scoreboard, and even the locker room have taken a step up, including a brand new state-of-the-art practice facility in suburban Cleveland.

So believe you me when I say that LeBron is not going to leave Ohio to play in that dump or an arena they have in New Jersey. Again, Jesus Christ could be their owner and it still wouldn't make a difference.

And if you're a fan of an NBA team that is pinning its hopes on 2010, I seriously pity for you. All you have to look forward to is betting that a guy is going to leave the state where he grew up while his current team is doing everything in its power to re-sign him.

You're betting on a hypothetical. You're going for broke. And if nobody comes your way in '10, let alone LeBron, then you're screwed. Maybe for a long, long time, too.

The Cavs, meanwhile, have a championship run to worry about. At least—at least—for the next two years.

Making the Argument: Why LeBron James is Better than Kobe Bryant

Mick Miller — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 10:25:37 -0500

One of the most heated, frustrating, finicky, and recent arguments in the NBA has been the talent comparisons of LeBron James and Kobe Bryant.

We've seen the trash talk, the studying, and the frustration of basketball experts arguing back and forth.

We've seen the excitement caused by games played by the Cavaliers and the Lakers, the All-Star games focused mainly on LeBron and Kobe (of course, you can never catch an All-Star game without seeing Dwight "Superman" Howard).

So let's make the argument. Who's better?

The Teams

The Cleveland Cavaliers' best player since 2003 has been LeBron James. The second most productive player has been Zydrunas Ilgauskas. Third, Mo Williams.

Fourth... hold on, let me look at their roster. I don't think they have anyone else.

The point is, LeBron James led the Cavs to the Finals in 2006-07, blowing by a tough Pistons team, and emphasizing the definition of single-handedly.

On the other hand, Kobe Bryant's team has himself, Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, Andrew Bynum, Trevor Ariza, and Phil Jackson.

His most productive teammate was one of the greatest centers of all time Shaquille O'Neal, and a solid point guard, Derek Fisher.

I think by that, we can tell which team has had better fortune, and which player can make his team look better.

Better argument: LeBron James

Offense

LeBron has been compared to Michael Jordan. So has Kobe. So which to choose for this category?

Well, for one thing, LeBron did better in the major statistic, scoring, in which he scored 30 points per game. In assists, LeBron gets this one too, getting 7.2 assists per game. He also won rebounding, getting 7.9 per game.

Kobe is a better shooter, but with time that will come to LeBron too, if it already hasn't. Plus LeBron's a better driver, finisher, and a better overall scorer.

He has a better record of being an actual teammate, where Kobe only has one year under his belt in that point of view.

Better argument: LeBron James. Wow, LeBron is starting to look like Obama and Kobe is starting to look like McCain!

Defense

Well, they were both on the All-Defensive team last year, so this one is going to be tough. NOT! LeBron is bigger, stronger, and better.

He has to cover Vince Carter, Paul Pierce, Richard Jefferson, Michael Redd, Rashard Lewis, Tayshaun Prince, Carmelo Anthony, and he even covers power forwards and shooting guards like Dwayne Wade and Kevin Garnett.

Kobe, on the other hand, could never cover a small forward, unless they are a 6-5, 180-pound one, and he can only cover some point guards.

Better argument: LeBron. Jeez, at least McCain got some votes!

Decision

Well considering LeBron got 3-of-3 in the major category votes, he had a 100 percent better argument in every category, and he's only 23 years old, the best player in the NBA goes to...

LeBRON JAMES

Making the argument: Why LeBron James is better than Kobe Bryant

Mick Miller — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 10:24:38 -0500

One of the most heated, frustrating, finicky, and recent arguments in the NBA has been the talent comparison of LeBron James and Kobe Bryant.

We've seen the trash talk, the studying, and the frustration of basketball experts back and forth arguments starring James and Bryant.

We've seen the excitement caused by the Cavaliers and the Lakers, and the All-Star games focused mainly on LeBron and Kobe (of course, you can never catch an All-Star game without seeing Dwight "Superman" Howard). So, let’s make the argument.

Who's better?

The Teams

The Cleveland Cavalier's best player since 2003 has been Mr. James. The second most productive player has been Zydrunas Ilgauskas. Third, Mo Williams, and fourth...hold on let me look at their roster. I don't think they have anyone else.

The point is this: James led the Cavs to the Finals in 2006-07—blowing by a tough Pistons team, and emphasizing the definition of single-handed.

On the other hand, Mr. Bryant's team has Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, Andrew Bynum, Trevor Ariza, and Phil Jackson. His most productive teammate was one of the greatest centers of all-time in Shaquille O'Neal, and he has a solid point guard in Derek Fisher.

I think by that we can tell which team has had better fortune, and which player can make his team look better.

Better argument: LeBron James

Offense

LeBron has been compared to Michael Jordan. So has Kobe. So, which to choose for this category? Well, for one thing, LeBron did better in the major statistic, scoring, in which he scored 30 points-per-game. In assists? LeBron gets this one too, getting 7.2 assists-per-game—he also won rebounding, getting 7.9 per game.

Kobe is a better shooter, but with time that will come for LeBron too—if it already hasn't. Plus, LeBron's a better driver, finisher, and a better overall scorer. He has a better record of being an actual teammate, where Kobe only has one year under his belt in that point of view.

Better argument: LeBron James. Wow, LeBron is starting to look like Obama and Kobe is starting to look like McCain!

Defense

Well, they were both on the All-Defensive team last year, so this one is going to be tough. NOT!! LeBron is bigger, stronger, and better. He has to cover Vince Carter, Paul Pierce, Richard Jefferson, Michael Redd, Rashard Lewis, Tayshaun Prince, Carmelo Anthony, and he even covers power forwards and shooting guards like Dwayne Wade and Kevin Garnett.

Kobe, on the other hand, could never cover a small forward unless they are 6'5", 180-pounds—and he can only cover some point guards.

Better argument: LeBron. Jeez, at least McCain got some votes!!

Decision

Well considering LeBron got 3-of-3 in the major category votes, he had a 100-percent better argument in every category, and he's only 23 years old.

The best player in the NBA goes to:

LEBRON JAMES

NBA Fantasy Tracker: Target Marc Gasol and Jason Thompson

Mick Miller — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 14:17:36 -0500

Every Wednesday, I'll highlight five players who you should either add to your fantasy team if you need the help or put on your watch list. I'll also list five players that should have their bags packed and may be on their way to free agency in your league.

ADD/WATCH LIST

Nick Young

While Young was buried on the guard-heavy Wizards bench last season, he will get plenty of minutes this season with Gilbert Arenas out once again.

The Wizards start Antonio Daniels to set up the offense and distribute the ball, but when they want instant offense, Young is their go-to guy. He has been averaging 16.5 points through two games, and I only see him getting better.

Keep in mind that for the most part, he is mostly a one-stat guy. If you need assists or steals, you may want to go another route, but Young will provide points and he won't hurt you with his shooting percentages.

Nate Robinson

With Chris Duhon performing terribly starting at point guard for the Knicks, Nate Robinson has picked up the slack. He can help out in four categories for your fantasy team. He is averaging 13 points, 4.7 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 2.7 steals per game.

His shooting percentages can be a little inconsistent, but that should be no reason to stop you from grabbing him if you need one player that will boost more than one category.

Jason Thompson

Thompson has been one of the better-performing rookies through one week of fantasy play. With Brad Miller out, Thompson came off the bench and was able to immediately help the Kings in the points and rebounds department.

He can do the same for your team, with averages of 14 points and seven rebounds per game. His minutes and stats will likely decrease when Miller comes back, but I would grab him while you can.

Marc Gasol

Gasol just got snatched up in my league, and for good reason. In his last game, against Golden State, he had 27 points, 16 rebounds, and three blocks.

While that was just one game and although I don't think he can sustain that, I do think he can give your team about 16 and 10 per game, with one or two blocks. If you need a big man, and Gasol has not been picked up in your league—stop reading now, open a new tab, and add him to your team.

Rudy Fernandez

Fernandez has been the subject of a lot of hype leading up to the season, but he has not disappointed yet. The one thing you can probably count on is him putting up points. No other aspect of his game has been consistent, but he has found a way to contribute in one way or another.

He scored 20 points in a loss to Phoenix on Saturday, but didn't do much else. Against San Antonio, he shot a terrible 16.7 percent from the field, but added eight rebounds. Fernandez may be one to keep on your watch list for now, until we get a better idea of what to expect from him on a nightly basis.

DROP

Kyle Korver

Why, oh why did I waste a pick on Kyle Korver? It may be a little early, but I drafted him for one reason, three-pointers, as I suspect many others did. So far, Korver has hit one out of six three-point attempts through three games for a pathetic 16.7 percent. If he was contributing more, I might think twice about dropping him, but Korver is doing more hurting than helping right now.

Chris Duhon

Much was made, especially out of New York, about the signing of Chris Duhon. A lot of Knicks fans assured me that now that Duhon was out of Chicago and starting for New York, his numbers would increase drastically. Luckily, I was smart enough to ignore their advice, since they also tell me Jerome James is a Hall-of-Fame center.

The only thing Duhon has done is disappoint. Through three games, he's averaged 6.7 points, four rebounds, and 4.3 assists. He also has a 2:1 assist-to-turnover ratio, and is making only 30 percent of his shots from the field. Mike D'Antoni may soon be benching Duhon for Nate Robinson, and Duhon fantasy owners should consider the same.

Morris Peterson

Peterson has been all over the place. One game he scores 21 points, and the next he's putting up five points. He may bounce back, but considering that he is the fourth option on offense for his team, I see more of the same for him.

Mike Conley

Conley has yet to really do anything through four games for the Grizzlies. I'm tolerant of low scoring from point guards if they can average at least six or seven assists. Conley is only averaging 3.5 a game to go with six points. He seems to be going through a shooting funk, so I can't think of one good reason to keep him around.

Rodney Stuckey

Stuckey excited Pistons fans last season, and many expect him to be the future starting point guard there. It seems Michael Curry doesn't see the same thing since he is only playing Stuckey 20 minutes a game.

With the recent trade sending Allen Iverson to Detroit, Stuckey's development may be stunted. You might want to keep him on your watch list, but I really don't see him getting more minutes, or shots with Iverson, Hamilton, Prince, and Wallace there.

Report: Iverson to Pistons for Billups, McDyess

Mick Miller — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:30:30 -0500

According to reports from RotoWorld and the Boston Globe , Allen Iverson has been traded to the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Chauncey Billups and Antonio McDyess.

The Nuggets have been trying to cut salary since the offseason when they offloaded Marcus Camby for the right to exchange second round picks with the Clippers in 2010.

The Nuggets need a ball handler and Billups would fit that role with J.R. Smith likely moving into the starting lineup to replace Iverson. Billups and McDyess have both played for the Nuggets and Billups also played college ball at Colorado.

Billups has been on the trade block in Detroit and while Iverson may not be the reliable point guard that Billups was, he certainly adds a dimension to the Pistons' offense. As if chasing Rip Hamilton around wasn't hard enough, the speedy and unpredictable Iverson poses his own challenges to opposing defenses.

The Pistons could also see this as an opportunity to further develop Rodney Stuckey at point guard and give him more playing time.

Through two games, Billups has been averaging 12.5 points, 7.5 assists and five rebounds while Iverson has averaged 18.7 points and 6.7 assists through three games.

The trade has yet to be confirmed, but according to RotoWorld, neither player attended shootaround today. We'll update this post as we find out more information or if the trade is finalized.

NBA Power Rankings: Week One

Mick Miller — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 09:24:26 -0500

With the first week of the NBA season now in the books, it's time to take my weekly look at the league. I ranked the defending champion Boston Celtics number one in my preseason power rankings , but will they be able to stay there? A number of still-undefeated teams might have something to say about that.

1. Los Angeles Lakers (3-0) - The Lakers' first week went about as well as anyone could have asked for. Just ask the newly re-signed Andrew Bynum if you don't believe me.

2. New Orleans Hornets (3-0) - Chris Paul already appears to be in midseason form, carrying the banged-up Hornets to wins over Phoenix and Cleveland last week.

3. Boston Celtics (2-1) - The C's looked like champions against the Cavs and Bulls, but I have to drop them after they got burned in Indiana.

4. Houston Rockets (3-0) - Two of their three wins came against a couple of cream puffs, but Houston could be better than advertised if McGrady gets healthy. Boston is up next.

5. Detroit Pistons (2-0) - Who'd have thought "The Herrmannator" would be the one to get the Pistons to 2-0? Detroit's bench is excellent.

6. Toronto Raptors (3-0) - The Raptors' season-opening road win over the 76ers surprised me, but Jose Calderon's early season dominance hasn't.

7. Utah Jazz (2-0) - Utah didn't need Deron Williams to pick up a pair of home wins over the Nuggets and Clippers.

8. Phoenix Suns (2-1) - Amare sure does look dominant early, but I'll need to see more consistency from the Suns' bench before I anoint them as serious contenders.

9. Atlanta Hawks (2-0) - Joe Johnson gets my vote for player of the week after leading the Hawks to wins over the Eastern contenders Orlando and Philadelphia.

10. Chicago Bulls (2-1) - The Bulls (and Rose) looked good against a couple of bad teams, but the blowout at the hands of the Celtics showed they have more to learn.

11. Cleveland Cavaliers (1-2) - Cleveland had a tough opening week with road losses in Boston and New Orleans, but LeBron still has yet to truly get going.

12. Dallas Mavericks (1-1) - The Mavericks are going to have to play better defense to have a shot against some of the better teams in the league.

13. San Antonio Spurs (0-2) - Spurs fans outraged at their team's 0-2 start can take solace in the fact that Tim Duncan is looking as spry as ever.

14. Philadelphia 76ers (1-2) - Philly dominated against the Knicks, then looked sluggish the next night against Atlanta. At least Brand looks to be back to All-Star form.

15. Orlando Magic (1-2) - Disappointing week for the Magic, but Dwight leads the league in rebounds and blocks, and it's only a matter of time before Rashard and Hedo catch fire.

16. Portland Trail Blazers (1-2) - LaMarcus Aldridge is going to have to pick up the slack while Greg Oden is out with yet another injury.

17. Indiana Pacers (1-1) - Danny Granger was so motivated by his new $60 million contract extension that he was willing to sacrifice his two front teeth.

18. Denver Nuggets (1-2) - Carmelo didn't start his season the way he wanted, but thankfully for him Denver next plays the defensively challenged Warriors and Mavericks.

19. Charlotte Bobcats (1-1) - Unless you live in the Charlotte area, you probably won't be able to witness just how good Gerald Wallace is, and that's a shame.

20. Milwaukee Bucks (2-2) - Skiles has the defense clicking, but with Michael Redd possibly out a while, can Jefferson and Sessions keep this team afloat on offense?

21. Miami Heat (1-2) - Miami definitely excels when they run, as we saw in the win over Sacramento, but I question their ability to get it done in the halfcourt.

22. Golden State Warriors (1-2) - The Warriors need to try to move Al Harrington so Don Nelson and the rest of the team can focus on winning games.

23. Minnesota Timberwolves (1-2) - Al Jefferson is a double-double machine, but he's going to need some help for the Wolves to stay competitive.

24. New Jersey Nets (1-1) - The Nets better hope that Vince Carter's hand injury isn't serious, because they don't have much else.

25. Memphis Grizzlies (1-2) - Memphis has the dubious honor of being the league's lowest scoring team so far, which makes sense considering that they have three rookies starting.

26. Washington Wizards (0-2) - The Wiz will need Nick Young to continue to play well on offense to help out Butler and Jamison until Agent Zero returns.

27. New York Knicks (1-2) - I think it's a safe bet to say that Stephon Marbury's days as a member of the Knicks are coming to an end.

28. Oklahoma City Thunder (1-2) - Thunder fans have to be happy that they now have a defensive stopper in training in Russell Westbrook to take some of the pressure off KD.

29. Sacramento Kings (0-3) - The one bright side to the Kings' 0-3 start has been the play of Spencer Hawes filling in for Brad Miller.

30. Los Angeles Clippers (0-3) - It's possible that the loss of Baron Davis could plunge the Clippers' negative 23.3-point differential even further into the red.

Philadephia 76ers Showing Passion and Pride in Preseason Play

Mick Miller — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 16:30:08 -0400

After winning their opening preseason game against the Celtics, the Sixers went 2-2 in a home-and-home series with the Knicks and road games versus the Raptors and Cavaliers.

On Tuesday, they host the Cavs for the second time. The game starts at 7 pm. On Wednesday, the Sixers close out the preseason in New Jersey.

So far, the signs are all positive leading into the coming season. Thaddeus Young is showing a consistent stroke from behind the three-point line. Mo Speights looks ready to contribute now.

Andre Iguodala matches up well with opposing two-guards. And Coach Cheeks is sticking to the script.

When Kareem Rush opened training camp running with the starters instead of Thaddeus Young, the concern was whether Cheeks would commit to playing Young at small forward.

That was answered with the last preseason game, when Elton Brand was out of the lineup for the birth of his son and Sam Dalembert was out resting a sore knee. Without the starting center and power forwards, the temptation was to go with either Green or Lou Williams at the guard spots, and start Iguodala and Young at the forward positions.

Instead, Coach Cheeks inserted Speights into the starting lineup and Theo Ratliff started at center. That was a vote of confidence for Thaddeus' development in adjusting to his new role as the starting small forward. If he continues to play as well as he has, look for Young to be the guy knocking down the shots when Brand draws the defense.

With Iguodala and Young adjusting well to being the focal points on the perimeter, this team figures to have one of the most balanced attacks in the entire league. The way Young's been shooting the ball, he very well could be in the running for Most Improved Player.

While Miller's numbers might dip a bit with the emergence of Young and development of Lou Williams, all five starters could average in double figures—with Young taking the biggest leap of them all. If he continues to show a reliable stroke, the Sixers will be relying on him for offense.

The way this team has been constructed reminds me a little of the Pistons in 2004. Thaddeus Young looks like a Tayshaun Prince-type of player—with a lot more upside. Andre Miller has the Chauncey Billups swagger and savvy, even if he doesn't have the three-point range.

Elton Brand brings the Ben Wallace muscle without being an offensive black hole. Mo Speights has that Antonio McDyess quality about him. Reggie Evans also brings a Ben Wallace-type quality, including the offensive limitations. Royal Ivey is our Lindsey Hunter.

Willie Green is part Flip Murray, Vinnie Johnson, and Arron Afflalo. Lou Williams has to be a difference maker for us because the majority of teams will not have an answer for him.
And while it's hard to compare Andre Iguodala to Rip Hamilton, but I certainly like him better in that match-up over Tayshaun Prince.

I guess you can throw up Ratliff and Donyell Marshall against Rasheed Wallace, but that's hoping that 'Sheed doesn't show up to play. Fat chance when it comes to facing his hometown squad in his Air Force Ones.

The games for the Sixers start to count next week, when they host the Raptors on Wednesday and the Knicks on Friday. For now, all eyes will be on the Phillies, as they open the World Series on Wednesday in Tampa. I say the Phils take it in six. 1980-2008.

This is our year. I don't care what Amar says

Detroit's Big Move: Kwame Brown

Mick Miller — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 03:36:53 -0400

Your mood may determine how you take the tone of the article headline. To be honest, I really don't know how I feel about it. We have trusted Joe Dumars in the past with former lottery pick reclamation projects, but Kwame Brown?

The former number one overall draft pick in 2001 was dealt to Memphis from the Lakers last season as part of the Pau Gasol trade for his expiring contract.

The contract with the Pistons calls for two years, $4 million per season with Brown holding a player option for year two. A bargain perhaps (at today's NBA prices) but is this the end of the offseason shake-up?

Chauncey Billups was a lottery pick as was Richard Hamilton. Neither became all-stars until landing in Detroit. That is not to say the 26 year old Brown is going to become one either.

For the price and the potential, it may be worth the chance. Michael Jordan was taken by Brown's skill set when he drafted him in Washington, but we have seen Mike's record as an executive.

Dumars on the other hand has had, for the most part, the magic touch. While the team is still approximately $10 million under the luxury tax limit, then may still have room to make a trade. It had better be something significant, or we can label this offseason summer just hot air.

Good move? Bad move? Like everyone else, get back with me, I could change my mind by lunch. High school players sometimes take years to develop and we do need some youth at the center spot.

Is Detroit the place where Brown puts it altogether? Jordan once called Dumars one of the toughest defenders he had ever faced. Joe may have to defend this move as well, the same Jordan made in 2001.

Detroit Lions "Believe In Now," But Questions Remain

Mick Miller — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 05:08:52 -0400

To parrot head coach Rod Marinelli, everything is a process. The process of the offseason is over and training camp opens today at Allen Park. Matt Millen and the franchise have pushed a credo of "Believe in Now," which is what Lion fans have been doing since their last championship in the 1950s. The end result, more often than not, has been disbelief at another campaign without a trip to the Super Bowl.

Yet here we are again, the start of camp at Optimism Central. While much of the attitude landscape has changed, the results really have not. With the "win now" mentality in pro sports, how much more time can we expect Marinelli to have to implement his military style philosophy and imprint his character on the players?

As long as I have been a staunch fan of the Lions, over 30 years, the "now" is about the shot we have unless something happens at the quarterback position. While Jon Kitna is serviceable and has statistical success over the last two seasons due to zero commitment to running the ball in Mad Mike Martz's pass-happy offense, he is not a Super Bowl caliber quarterback. Never has been, never will be.

What lies behind this season is scarier than that. With former Viking, Dolphin, and Raider Daunte Culpepper calling the Lions looking for work, isn't it obvious that the quarterback position is in flux? Kitna is cemented as the starter in '08, but who is the future? Dan Orvlosky? Drew Stanton?

Makes you think that with Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson on the outside and a re-commitment to the run game, I would hold the same opinion on C-Pepp as I would Simms. Why not? Take a shot; he is now three years removed from the knee injury that changed his life, so maybe he's ready to change ours.

The team has their draft picks signed and ready to roll. Right tackle Gosder Cherilus, linebacker Jordon Dizon, running back Kevin Smith, and defensive end Cliff Avril are all being counted on to make an impact. "Believing in Now" is going to mean these young cubs roar early, and loudly.

Rumors are still circulating that former Eagle Takeo Spikes is interested in coming aboard and the Lions are eager to sign him, but this talk has been going on for more than a week. He finished second in tackles in Philadelphia last season and would be a good fit to man the middle of Detroit's Tampa Two. Why wait?

Both lines will be the focus of this camp. The offensive line has much to prove as they were not a fit for the Martz offense and claim coming off the ball and playing smash mouth is. The defensive front will make or break this club as gone is man-child Shaun Rogers off to Cleveland and now Cory Redding, owner of one of the richest defensive contracts in the league has to become a Pro Bowler, or real close to it.

Is last season's free agent prize Dewayne White the answer to the ever-present pass rush shortage? Will Ikaika Alama-Francis develop in his second season to help him? Will Redding prove to be worth $49 million? What about former Pac-10 defensive player of the year Shaun Cody? Is playing for a contract all he's good for? Is he a dependable defensive tackle? Why didn't the Lions make a run at Jason Taylor?

Without improvement to the D-front, the improved secondary will still struggle and suffer.

As camp opens, all best case scenarios seem possible and the first preseason games are right around the corner. "Believing in Now" means should the team open 6-2 again this season, they should be able to close it out with a playoff spot, maybe a playoff win.

At least we have football back, huh?

Chris Simms? Lions Should Take a Chance

Mick Miller — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 05:32:43 -0400

You can already hear the noise. Another Tampa Bay player? Aren't there any other teams in the NFL to deal with or former players of other clubs?

The Lion quarterback situation is hardly ready for much beyond this season. The fact is that a contingency plan must be in place if current back-ups Dan Orlovsky or Drew Stanton aren't NFL-caliber signal callers.

As usual there is a lot of pressure in Detroit.

After such a long record of futility, the team has scrambled year after year in an attempt to get back to the playoffs. Dan Orlovsky has played in two games since being taken in the 5th round in 2005 and has had a host of offensive coordinators and coaches. We simply don't know if he's ready.

Last season's second round draft choice Drew Stanton was placed on the injured reserve list after sustaining a knee injury in camp and is yet to even see any game action, pre-season or otherwise. Mike Martz is gone and since he tore down his entire game, rebuilding it to fit his offense, he is a rookie all over again.

Jon Kitna is a career back-up with a couple seasons as a full time starter.

He is well into the twilight of his playing days and is a year or two away from retirement. Lets face it, he isn't Brett Farve and playing beyond the age of 38 is not an attractive option for the Lions and for Rod Marinelli to keep his job during that time frame, he is going to have to get a bonafide productive starter at the position.

This is what makes Chris Simms a sensible gamble.

He won't be 28 years old until near the start of the season, has starting experience, and enough upside in the right system to be successful. He has the "quarterback pedigree" from his father Phil, a salary in the $2 million range, and an availability that would mean a low round, stipulations-added draft choice to acquire him.

He is currently fifth on the Bucs' depth chart; he is not going to be there this season so the Bucs need to move him.

The quarterback situation in Detroit has a distinct pecking order as it sits. It is Kitna, Orlovsky, and Stanton. There isn't an open competition nor should there be. Bringing in Simms, who has drawn interest from the Bears and Cowboys as well, would be one of the wiser moves the Lions could make without forfeiting much of the future.

The Lions are getting the point in the Marinelli era where some significant results are needed.

Improvement, steps forward, a competitive product on the field. Marinelli has a knowledge of Simms and the team has done ample business in acquiring Tampa players for the knowledge of the coach, their defensive system, and for their "football character". Simms has proven a toughness (coming back from a near fatal spleen injury) and would be a smart move on Matt Millen's part were he to bring him in.

Why let him go to an NFC power like Dallas (who need a back-up to Tony Romo) or worse yet, a division foe like the Bears who are in need as well who may be close to landing former Lion Kevin Jones as well?

With camp opening soon, Detroit would be wise to make this move.

Pistons Start Summer Off Right 84-73

Mick Miller — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 05:40:17 -0400

The cure for the NBA summertime blues? For the fanatics, it's the Las Vegas Summer League, where those of us who have to go the off-season without the NBA title (again) can erase those bad memories, and get on with the renewed fervor of next season's hopes and promises.

We know as Piston fans that a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals is getting to be the standard, but leaving our season there is getting to be redundant.

While team president Joe Dumars has stated there aren't any "sacred cows" amongst the veterans, Friday night's opening game of the Las Vegas Summer League was his first opportunity to pour over the new prime choice young talent during their 84-73 win over the Los Angeles Lakers.

While sifting through the expected rust, you could single out the standouts while noticing some of the promise of the newcomers. Guard Rodney Stuckey dominated the floor, seemingly getting to any spot he wanted, leaving himself with converting as his only task.

While Stuck did not use the game to work on his three-point shooting, he went for 21 points on 6-16 shooting, working both the drive and the pull-up jumper equally. He added five rebounds and four assists, running from both guard spots.
While both Arron Afflalo (15 points) and Amir Johnson (5-5 FGs, 12 points) were a little overly aggressive on defense (you get 10 fouls before fouling out), they both made some strides on their respective weak offensive games.

Cheick Samb seems to be filling out that 7-0 frame with added muscle (up to 225 pounds) and working on his jump shot to become more of an offensive threat as well. His 3-12 showing means there's work to be done, but he did add nine points and as many rebounds. Dumars is looking for him to be an asset soon.

The highlight for me was the chance to see the newest draftees, the ones who have been getting much criticism and have questions to answer. Each gave a good account of themselves and showed some flash.

Walter Sharpe, the forward out of UAB, got the start, and showed excellent feet in and around the lane, and passed the ball well. His shot seemed hurried but smooth, so his 2-9 from the floor is a little misleading. He is agile and mobile, played good defense, both on-man and in the passing lanes, and will get more comfortable with more minutes.

"It feels good to get out there and do some positive things," Sharpe stated, after finishing with eight points, three steals, three rebounds and two assists.

Trent Plaisted also played well after a shaky start and getting his feet wet. He ran the floor with ease and got out ahead of the pack, taking a pass from Stuckey and dunking. He got more acclimated as he played, and scored 10 points (4-5) and grabbed five rebounds. I would have liked to seen more from the outside and off the dribble, but it was respectable for a first game.

Deron Washington has the look, but seemed to defer to everyone else out on the floor. He has the tools and his college stats back that up. In addition to his nearly 14 points per game last season at Virginia Tech, he averaged over six assists and rebounds, very good for his size. He gets an incomplete for this game, and will get more opportunity in the upcoming contests.

Veterans Will Bynum and Derrick Allen played sparingly but solid, and both could have been a little more aggressive going to the rim. Kentrell Gransberry, a 6-9, 270 pound mountain, looks to be a project, but is not awkward or plodding, and seems to know what he's doing around the basket.

How much playing time he gets is up in the air, but Dumars agreed to take a look at him, as his son is headed to South Florida to play and attend school.

The Pistons next game is Sunday versus the Clippers. With Jarvis Hayes leaving Detroit for the New Jersey Nets, the Pistons have more holes to fill, and the door is open for these young players to walk through.

Piston Draft Review: Deron Washington

Mick Miller — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 04:55:47 -0400

This is the final installment of a three-part look at each of Detroit's three 2008 draft selections.

Call me crazy (or any of the other names you may have already picked out), but the more I look over the players Joe Dumars drafted, the less I am disappointed.

Other than some diehard Piston fans I have talked too, most were not only surprised but appalled that the team selected Indiana power-forward D.J. White and then immediately traded him away to Seattle (oops, Oklahoma City) for a pair of second round draft choices.

While we can all agree that the draft can be a crap-shoot, if the dice come up, the Pistons really have some solid young pieces in place, including Deron Washington out of Virginia Tech.

No. 59: Deron Washington, 6'6", 202 lbs., guard/forward, Virginia Tech.

Washington has the potential to be a valuable asset off the bench and spot starter for the club.

His scoring and rebounding improved each season at the college level and his athleticism is unquestioned, a must for a two guard and small forward.

He is an explosive finisher around the rim and is a YouTube.com highlight favorite. His 6.5 rebounds per game speaks to his versatility and complete game and is impressive for a player his size.

The interesting question to me is where he begins the campaign in 2008-2009. Is he destined for the D-League or will his skill set allow for Washington to join the parent club and contribute right away.

With Walter Sharpe and Trent Plaisted taken before him, will the bench support all of the new and current young Pistons? All have to potential to be strong scorers, rebounders, and defenders while providing support at multiple positions.

Regardless the answer, the jury is still out on what the expectations for the team will be this upcoming season.

Dumars is looking to shake up the starting five with a trade off some magnitude. With free agency starting, the chips around the league should start to fall and availability and opportunity will begin to present itself and we can only sit back and wait to see what happens.

On one hand, its kind of exciting and at the same time, maddening because we all want to know which way the team will go.

First-year coach Michael Curry could have a veteran laden starting unit and the expectations that group has produced over the last six seasons, or a young squad who may be said to be ready to get to the playoffs, but really buying time to gel and grow.

Either way, I would expect these three selections from this season's draft to be part of the Piston future and I for one am excited to see their play in the upcoming Vegas league.

Piston Draft Review: Trent Plaisted

Mick Miller — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 06:47:08 -0400

This is the second of a three-part look at each of Detroit's three 2008 draft selections.

Just as Walter Sharpe will get the chance to develop for Detroit, their second selection will should be right along side him. While Sharpe maybe a better defender, Trent Plaisted looks a little more polished on the offensive end and like Sharpe, brings good size and athleticism.

No. 46: Trent Plaisted, 6-9, 240-pound forward/center, Brigham Young University.

At 6-11, 240 pounds, Plaisted shows excellent footwork and a versatility to the low post with both a nice shooting touch and passing ability. Being a left hander poses a new set of problems for opponents because there are so few in the league. He may grow to be offensively similar to Zach Randolph.

Where he may weak is facing up to the basket. He appears to be more effective catching the ball with his back to the basket. He will need to increase his intensity and trust his skills and not be satisfied with just "being out there".

Can he defend the five position? Is he strictly a power forward? He does show the quickness to be effective at either position and a willingness to work. His workouts appeared to lessen as they moved to the NBA Draft Camp, but he showed enough in prior appearances to have the eye of many teams, especially Joe Dumars and the Pistons.

While Sharpe is scheduled to start for Detroit's Summer League team in Las Vegas July 11-18, Plaisted is going to get a long look from new head coach Michael Curry, who is making the trip to coach and get a first hand look at the new arrivals along with holdovers Rodney Stuckey, Arron Afflalo, Cheikh Samb, and Amir Johnson.

If all works according to plan, a front line rotation of Jason Maxiell, Amir Johnson, Walter Sharpe, and Plaisted is in the cards for the Pistons as they attempt to stack their hand with an athletic and versatile set of bigs.

Piston Draft Review: Walter Sharpe

Mick Miller — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:23:48 -0400

This is the first of a three-part look at each of Detroit's three 2008 draft selections.

I have to be honest. I am still scratching my head, but have faith in Joe Dumars. He has his way of doing things and they have been effective thus far during his tenure at the helm of the Detroit Pistons.

The draft went from excitable to "huh?" in a heartbeat. The rumors had been that Detroit had their eye on D.J. White, a power presence down low from Indiana. Everything seemed to work according to plan as he was there at #29 and Dumars nabbed him. Sounded like just what the doctor ordered.

Many fans, including myself, we taken by surprise to see Dumars trade him so quickly to Seattle for two second round selections. Was money a factor? Could be, but with a rookie salary slot, it wouldn't seem so.

Dumars knows talented players and with second round picks, there are no guarantees and no guaranteed money. And with the D-League and a roster full of young players already, maybe this was the way to go. So who is who and new at The Palace? First up is Walter Sharpe.

No. 32: Walter Sharpe, 6-9, 245-pound forward, Alabama-Birmingham.

Many downgraded Sharpe due to a shady past and a "lazy" presence. Diagnosed with narcolepsy, a sleeping disorder that led to tardiness to team functions and academic shortcomings, Sharpe now takes medication that he says turned his life around.

"It's definitely behind me," Sharpe boasts. "My worst days are behind me and my best days ahead of me. Nobody thought I had narcolepsy. People thought I was just lazy and slept a lot."

And while some have compared his game to Laker forward Lamar Odom, it is unknown at this time if Sharpe will make the club out of camp of spend some time at Fort Wayne of the D-League.

He will have to prove that an arrest at a club with four other UAB players was a case of poor judgment, and not a character issue that will continue. Though he says he was sticking up for team mates, he knows he should have known better. He is working on being a better man, and player.

"I can't completely blame it on narcolepsy," Sharpe admits. "I'd just say that some things I could have done better."

"I like to put the ball on the floor," Sharpe points out. "I'm not scared to dribble or shoot it from anywhere. I like to pass the ball. I like to do everything on the court that you can do on offense. Maybe by looking at me or reading my stat line, you might not notice that, but in due time, you'll see."

Trusting Joe Dumars has been easy, and this draft will test that loyalty, but the summer league should be fun to watch as these players get their first tests.

Carmelo Anthony to Motown?

Mick Miller — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 05:03:32 -0400

If at first you don't succeed...

While few can argue the job Joe Dumars has done in the Pistons' front office, one of the glaring mistakes has been drafting Darko Milicic with the second overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft.

The player taken immediately following Darko? Carmelo Anthony by the Denver Nuggets.

According to a league source, Detroit is rumored to be one of the teams who are testing the trade waters for the young forward.

While hindsight is always 20/20, this would certainly qualify as the "shake-up" Dumars is insisting the team needs. While it would bring a dynamic scorer to the Pistons, who would the team give up in exchange? Would Melo fit in with a defensive-minded club like Detroit?

These are crucial questions that require answers before Dumars rolls the dice. Is the price going to be too high? Rasheed Wallace will have an expiring contract at $13 million, and Chauncey Billups is a Denver native...Would one of them leave?

Will it be Rip Hamilton to even out the statistical scoring? Is Tayshaun Prince or Jarvis Hayes in the picture?

The wildcard here is Dumars, who brought in Rasheed Wallace and turned the team into champions in 2004. He has a proven track record in influencing players and could make this work.

Anthony has had some off-court issues as well (DUI), and these type of things cannot happen in Detroit, as the fans have certainly had enough of inmates running the asylum.

While Detroit would be only one of the clubs shopping for Anthony, the Pistons have made it known their roster, sans guard Rodney Stuckey, is up for grabs. Dumars is ready to rock the Palace with a move that will generate a buzz and give the new head coach a fresh start.

While he insists he is not tearing the team down, Dumars is done with giving another chance to the same group that showed promise during the regular season, only to fall back into old habits come playoff time.

Dumars knows from the Wallace deal, and the trades both the Celtics and Lakers made this past off-season, that it can be done. Trades landed both Boston and Los Angeles in the Finals, and that is where Dumars wants to be.

If a deal is made, look for it to be a big one, especially if they are mining for Nuggets.

Boston Bakes Detroit Pistons, 88-79, in Game One

Mick Miller — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:43:00 -0400

Dispatching Orlando early enough to take a week off didn't do the Pistons any favors, as they looked like a tired, out-of sync squad.

The idea that Boston would be beaten before they even showed up was nice to fantasize about, but far from the truth. They came out hungry and aggressive, while Detroit played the gracious guest, shooting horribly and supplying the Celtics with turnovers.

The Celtics went right at them, feeding Kevin Garnett (26 points, 9 rebounds) who went right to work, and scored eight in the first and six in the second quarter. He got the better of Rasheed Wallace (FG 3-12, 11 points) at both ends of the floor, and gave Boston an aura of control all game.

Paul Pierce and Rajon Rondo were just as lethal in their key match-ups as well.

Tayshaun Prince (16 points), the Piston stopper, played lethargically against Pierce, who gave Boston a solid all-around game with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists, and quashed any hope the Pistons could muster with his clutch shooting.

Though Pierce had some nice assists, he also threw the ball away on occasion, something Detroit can perhaps capitalize on later in the series.

The return of Chauncey Billups landed with a resounding thud.

While his presence calmed the team, his play was erratic, and he sat for extended periods of time. What was suppose to be a decided advantage against Rondo, it was the Celtic guard who captained the game with precision point play.

Although Billups (9 points, 2 assists, and 2 steals in 31 minutes) looked like he had a good game going, he wasn't nearly as good as Rondo, who compiled a solid 11 points, 7 assists and 5 steals with a single turnover.

The Pistons often switched defensive assignments putting Rip Hamilton (FG 5-13, 15 points, 6 rebounds) on Rondo to protect Billups, who would take the struggling Ray Allen.

Antonio McDyess played solid offense (14 points) and had a game-high 11 rebounds, but was still lost on defense and was killing the momentum with untimely turnovers and bad decisions, especially on defense and fouling.

Were the Pistons sucked into the favorite's role—one they would rather not have been?

Maybe. The fact was the pressure had been on the team that succumbed to it.

Pistons' Flip Saunders perhaps felt a shorter bench was wiser, for he dressed both Amir Johnson and Jarvis Hayes, and neither saw a minutes action. I feel that Johnson's athleticism and Hayes' offensive game should have been at least explored in this game.

Boston needed to keep winning at home because they have struggled on the road—they did. Detroit needed to come out and make a statement and show that they would be rested, not rusty—they didn't.

So much for the "rest versus rust" argument.

Game Two between the Celtics and the Pistons is on Thursday, and it may be critical for Detroit to get a win there in order to shift the pressure to the Celtics before heading to the Palace.

Pistons-Magic: No Guarantees for Orlando as Detroit Closes Them Out

Mick Miller — Tue, 13 May 2008 17:01:00 -0400

Jameer Nelson may have not been able to come through on his guarantee of a victory tonight in Detroit, but this much is certain: With a big, and smart, off-season the Magic can certainly rule of the Eastern conference.

As long as they keep the nucleus of Nelson, Dwight Howard, Hedo Turkoglu, and Rashard Lewis, Orlando just needs to add the right bench pieces to go along with this year's playoff experienced squad.

But Tuesday night at the Palace, it was the veterans Rip Hamilton, Rasheed Wallace, and Antonio McDyess who came through in the clutch late in the game and not only closed out a 91-86 win in game five, but sent Orlando back home alone and off for the summer.

The Pistons are now 15-3 in closeout games since the year 2003, and this one couldn't have come at a better time. It was Hamilton again who came up big with 19 first-half points (15 in the 2nd period) and 31 for the game—the second without Piston captain Chauncey Billups.

Billups, sat out his second straight game nursing a sore hamstring and watched his replacement, rookie Rodney Stuckey, come up with a big performance of his own.

After struggling with foul trouble in game four and playing a mere 22 minutes, Stuckey found his rhythm and ran the team like a veteran, scoring 15 points, dropping six dimes, with zero turnovers. To say this will boost his confidence, playing big minutes in a big game and performing well at crunch time is an understatement.

With Boston and Cleveland deadlocked in a 2-2 tie, Billups should have the chance to rejuvenate and heal his hamstring and be back to his old self by the time the Eastern Conference Finals roll around.

Although Hamilton started off slow, hitting only three of his first 10 shots (finished 7-20 for the game), he did get to the line often (finishing 16-16) and followed up his game for performance of 32 points with another huge game Tuesday night.

While Rip was passing Isaiah Thomas to become the club's all-time leading playoff scorer and Stuckey playing like he'd been there before, both Wallace (7-20, 14 points, 7 boards, 3 big steals) and McDyess (17 points, 11 rebounds, 6 offensive) played big down on the blocks on offense and defense scoring, big buckets and defending Dwight Howard.

Howard grabbed 17 rebounds and scored 14 points, but he could only muster a 4-8 night from the field and a disappointing 6-15 from the free-throw line and what was to be his second straight poor offensive game in the series.

No matter what Detroit did to pull away, Orlando stayed right there. Time and time again Detroit would get out to a lead only to have the Magic storm back and keep the score close.

Hedo Turkoglu (8-15, 18 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists, 5 turnovers) and Rashard Lewis (4-13, 14 points, 7 boards, 6 turnovers) kept Orlando from being buried but could not keep themselves from the costly mistake. Three of the Magic starters would end up with five fouls, allowing Detroit to hit 28-32 (Orlando was 16-28) from the stripe and keep them in the pole position.

While things remained even due to Detroit's poor shooting (36% for the game) and Orlando's poor ball maintenance, to play the game was made by Tayshaun Prince. After two Hamilton free throws with 19.6 seconds, Turkoglu drove the ball to the rim for what appeared to be a slam dunk only to have it blocked by Prince.

It was a play we've come to expect from Prince as Detroit fans as he is repeatedly came up with the big block in playoff situations including to this series. After two more Hamilton free throws, making the score 89-84, Orlando still had a shot as they are very dangerous three point shooting team.

It wasn't to be, due to another Orlando turnover on the inbounds pass to Turkoglu. Detroit quickly inbounded the ball to Hamilton who was quickly fouled and hit two more free throws, putting the game out of reach.

A token lay-up by Keith Bogans provided the final score and sealed the deal for the Pistons, who—for the first time since the Lakers in 1984-89—will go to the conference finals for the sixth consecutive year.

Detroit also has some things they need to clean up in their game. When playing the zone defense, too often the bigs are left on an outside shooter at the arc, giving them an open look from three.

Too many times when defending the pick and roll, Lindsey Hunter would end up in a mismatch against Rashard Lewis; not a good situation. Their switches need to be smarter and recognized earlier.

Tayshaun Prince finished with 10 points and eight rebounds but shot poorly at 4-13. In previous games in this series, Prince would drive strong to the hole. Not the case Tuesday night and the Pistons need his scoring when things bog down on offense.

Wallace missed everything from three point land, but was solid in the post. McDyess had easily his best game of this series and maybe the playoffs, as his 6-9 shooting were all big baskets. He and Wallace both finished with four fouls, and too often throw their hands up in the air when expecting a foul call and allowing the opponent to run down the court in fast-break fashion. This often happens after made baskets by the opponent.

The Pistons were beat down the for repeatedly for easy layups and were not getting back on defense. However, the stat of the night was the turnovers as Detroit had only three while Orlando committed 21, most at the worst times in the game.

So Orlando goes home and the Pistons go on. My loyalties in the Boston-Cleveland series will lie with the team needing the win to prolong this series as long as possible. Time is the best thing for this veteran Detroit team and its captain Chauncey Billups as they can rest up, heal up, and pull up a chair to watch their possible opponents beat up on each other.

If their series goes seven, the deciding game will be in Boston on May 18, next Sunday, which means a nice break.

But whether they face King James or the Boston Three Party, the Pistons should be recharged and refocused.

Pistons-Magic: Detroit "Rip"s Victory from Orlando, Takes 3-1 Series Lead

Mick Miller — Sat, 10 May 2008 16:05:42 -0400

Some opportunities only come along once in a lifetime.

Without Pistons captain and glue Chauncey Billups to worry about, the Magic missed a golden opportunity at home with as much as a 16 point lead in the third quarter, only to fold tent late to the veteran Pistons.

Hedo Turkoglu, a Top Five fourth quarter scorer in the NBA, missed a layup at the buzzer to give Detroit a hard-fought 90-89 win and a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. Turkoglu survived a non-call on a charge on the play but could not finish off an excellent job he had done in the period.

While having only seven points through the first three quarters of the game, the Pistons began misplaying their switches on defense and allowed Hedo to do as he pleased. While he ended up with 13 in the final stanza and 20 for the game, the big two eluded him in the end.

Rip Hamilton showed us why its nice to have two All-Star guards in the backcourt. He came up huge in this game with a gritty, tough performance, shooting 12-24 from the floor and 8-9 from the line for 32 points.

Rodney Stuckey, the rookie from Eastern Washington starting in place of Billups, struggled on defense throughout and was a non-factor. Not ready for prime time? Maybe, but Lindsey Hunter came in and hit a couple of big three-pointers, the same shots the Magic were daring Stuckey to make. Needless to say, we know what Stuckey will be working on this summer.

The pathetic start to this game was magnified by the absence of Billups. The Pistons could not get into their offense in an acceptable amount of time. Time and time again, be it Hamilton, Rasheed Wallace (16 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals), or Tayshaun Prince (17 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists), I would be screaming at the television as they would hold the ball in the post much too long before making a move.

The Pistons were having good success with second chance points and if the shot is hurried, you have to be able to react. It would be an offensive rebound by Antonio McDyess (8 points, 14 rebounds) that gave Prince a chance to hit the game winning floater with 8.9 seconds left in the contest.

As predicted, Detroit shot 35 percent in the first quarter while Orlando came out running off missed Pistons jumpers, shooting 46 percent and taking a 27-21 lead. The highlight of the period (and maybe the series) was the block on a break-away dunk by former Piston Maurice Evans by Prince, who has an incredible knack for this play and has now added Evans to the stack of Reggie Miller and Allen Iverson. The replay showed it to be a clean block and another outstanding play by Prince.

After doing such a great job in Game One, the Pistons have gotten away from challenging the three-point attempts. Too many open looks for the Magic spelled a deficit. While Rip was hot, Sheed, Prince, and Stuckey were all AWOL on offense. Although they were able to muster a 10-2 run to get within two and later take a 30-27 lead, Detroit fell back into bad habits and found themselves down 11 at the half, 55-44. Detroit needed some fire and grit to even keep this thing close as it was getting away fast.

As usual, Detroit surrendered a quick five points out of the gate and the lead was 16. Orlando was running the high pick and roll, and McDyess is not accustomed to having to take the wing shooter.

At the same time, Stuckey repeatedly would pass up three point shots that Billups would love to take. He has to take those shots to make the defender respect him. I love his physical game, driving to the rim. He needs to improve his passing out of the paint and extending that range because it crowds the post offense the Pistons love to run. While Prince can be serviceable playing the "point-forward", his length and lack of bulk hinders his ball-handling and he can be bothered all the way down the floor.

At 63-48 came the turning point for Detroit. A 10-0 run started things off and the Piston defense turned it up two notches. Wallace began playing more assertive, and his three steals were a product of relentless pressure on Lewis and Howard, both of whom fell off from their Game 3 performances.

The run stretched to 15-0 over a five-minute span (with the Magic missing eight straight shots and committing two turnovers) when Rip got out in front after a steal from Rashard Lewis and the game was tied at 63.

Hunter's second three of the period gave them their first lead at 66-65 since the 30-27 edge in the second. With Sheed's eight in the period, it was down to the fourth at 70-70 (thanks to a three by Evans with 1.4 left). No one was resting easy, as Billups is one of the best in the game at closing out opponents, and he was still in street clothes.

Detroit was now shooting 58 percent with one turnover in the second half while Orlando had slacked off to 31 percent and four turnovers. Since the 63-48 deficit, the Pistons were on a 26-7 run.

Here's the thing. The Magic were at home, they can hit the three, and sometimes I don't know why Detroit head coach Flip Saunders does some of the things he does. As if Rip weren't working hard enough carrying the scoring load, Saunders in his attempt to protect Wallace from foul trouble would put Hamilton on Rashard Lewis, which the Magic took advantage of time and time again.

After Rip's third personal, they decided to put him back on Evans (15 points, 3-6 from the arc), whom Sheed was trying to guard (just a bad move to me).

With the game getting tighter and Turkoglu finding his fourth quarter groove (at one time, he had two threes and a three-point play the hard way in a 1:30 span that gave the Magic a 86-84 lead with 2:33 left), something had to give. Rip had been sensational all night and kept the team in it even when things got chippy between the two clubs.

Two missed shots in close that Howard and Hedo thought they were fouled on (weren't) and the double technicals on Howard (3-12 shooting, 8 points, 12 rebounds, 7 offensive, but one block) and McDyess and one on Keyon Dooling after a rough foul on Hamilton (Rip missed the technical foul shot but hit the two for the original foul) were a preview to the wild finish.

Jameer Nelson, who played his second terrific game with 15 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds, hit only one of two at the line (2-6 for the game) leaving Orlando with the one-point lead. After Prince's bucket (McDyess' offensive rebound was amongst four Magic players), the stage was set with still too much time and a hot Hedo destined to be the hero.

The same set-up that had worked the entire fourth quarter, Turkoglu got the ball out top as the clock wore down. He may have waited a little long, as he did not leave enough time for a possible offensive board, but he drove on Prince and ran over Jason Maxiell getting to the rim. He missed the shot with Hunter grabbing the offensive rebound on the other side and dribbling out the clock.

“I was reading the situation,” Hedo rehashed of the final sequence. “I didn’t want to rush and force a bad shot. Maybe I was holding it too long instead of going right away. I’m just upset that I couldn’t help the team.”

Howard looked way out of sync in the post. Many of his shots were simply bricks that had no chance. He went to the line a mere two times, something we know the Magic fans will continuously point to about the man who led the league in free throw attempts by more than 100 over the second-place finisher. He did not offer many excuses or place any blame after the game.

“I missed a lot of shots, just had a little frustrated night,” Superman sighed. “Nothing I can do about it — just come back next game and get a little better.”

With a 3-1 lead and heading back to the Palace, the Pistons would be wise to sit Chauncey again and save him for a possible game six if the Magic win next Tuesday. If the Pistons close out the series, and with Cleveland looking like a winner at home in their series with Boston (Celtics leading now 2-1), Detroit can rest the captain for the next series.

But let me make something very clear. The Magic aren't done and will go down with guns blazing. They will come out in Game Five in Detroit needing a win and when you can shoot the three like that, they can get you down in a hurry and come back the same way.

You can't expect Howard to have another sub-par performance like he did Saturday and the Pistons will need another big effort from everyone to close this series out.

After losing four in a row to Cleveland last year, I don't take anything for granted, including Billups, who when you don't have him, leaves a big a hole in a line-up as any in the league.

Detroit Lions: The Caleb Campbell Quandary

Mick Miller — Thu, 08 May 2008 07:36:31 -0400

I have never served in any branch of the United States military and am a staunch supporter of anyone who has or does. Whether its war time or not, whether its in the field or behind a desk, it takes courage and fortitude to enlist in my opinion. In my support, I also greatly respect the parents, spouses, children, relatives and friends who are directly affected by those who serve. Whether or not I agree with the war in Iraq, I believe it is a must to support the troops because they represent our country.

I am also a Detroit Lions, NFL, and general all-around sports fan as is many of Americans as well as military personnel. It is not hard to imagine the relief a sports fan serving over seas gets from the distraction sports can bring them and the sense of normalcy following their teams and players. The 2008 NFL Draft brought about an intriguing debate in its last round; the status of Lion draft pick, safety Caleb Campbell from Army.

At the time of his selection, I really didn't think it was that big of a deal. He is a football player, a player who plays defense which the Lions are in dire need of, and of course, available. Was I touched by his story? Of course. Did I mind the ovation he got at Radio City Music Hall? Not in the least. I will admit, I did not know of the new rule the Army has implemented where it concerns professional sports. After I was informed, I still didn't have any concerns over Campbell's selection.

At first, I wondered if this was a ploy by the team. Matt Millen has been under fire for years here and his popularity isn't about to improve regardless. Head coach Rod Marinelli is a veteran of the Vietnam War and brings a militaristic tone to his team and staff. Was this pick, considered by many as "the feel good story" of the draft, an attempt to play to the football fans of not only the Motor City, but the nation? I would not be surprised, but it was my cynical Lion mind that placed it in my mind.

I thought it a wise pick and it getting the reaction it got was a bonus to me. Frankly, the Lions can use any positive publicity and recognition it can get. After years of continued futility, its about time he had something to smile about if we cannot celebrate division championships, playoff wins of even a Super Bowl appearance let alone a win. I really did not expect the debate to be so strong on the "rule" and the vast array of emotions and opinions the issue has spawned.

Because Campbell was drafted by a professional team, he has the option of not being deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan. He can serve as an Army recruiter and "general ambassador" and with his new-found popularity is considered an asset to draw recruits to West Point. It makes sense that high-profile West Point graduates could be very valuable in this regard. And for an guy who could have remained anonymous his entire life, Campbell's new found fame as an NFL player (providing he makes the team, which I don't see how he gets cut), means even more of the public eye.

Wow, how far and beyond the football field this truly is, and I feel somewhat disappointed in myself that I don't feel stronger about one side or the other. My father served in the Army and fought in the Korean War and I have cousins that have been, are in line to go, or are in Iraq. For my family members, I hope they are safe and sound and come back home just as they left. I wish our country could bring the war to a positive end and bring everyone home. To concern myself with whether or not Caleb Campbell should stay and play or be assigned as if he did not get a shot at pro football simply doesn't make my list of priorities.

Considered a better tackler than cover man, Campbell may be groomed to add a little bulk and become a linebacker for the Lions. After signing Dwight Smith and Kalvin Pearson and having holdovers Gerald Alexander and Daniel Bullocks, safety may not be a pressing need. Nevertheless, a versatile defender that can be a fit for the Tampa Two and play multiple positions is always welcome. Marinelli is interested in Campbell as a player, not because of his military background or sentimental appeal. Marinelli explains:

“I don’t have a whole lot of sentimental. That’s just me. I like guys who run, hit and tackle, and if he does that, then I’m pretty sentimental. He was a draft-eligible player. My job is to find guys who can play football, and if he’s draft-eligible, you would expect me to find him.”

Campbell has obviously received many good wishes and encouragement, which I don't have a problem with. As I've said, to go through four years of education and training at West Point is extremely commendable and any role he may be able to fill is to be applauded. It is my understanding that not all graduates go into combat automatically. I also have read that is is likely Caleb would have been assigned to Iraq or Afghanistan. This is where the debate heats up.

There are those, both former military personnel and others, who believe Campbell should not have the NFL opportunity. Some talk of the estimated $250,000 it takes for a four-year program at West Point and how it is financed. Some ask how can Campbell even look his classmates in the face. Questions of his loyalties and priorities have made their way into the papers and talk radio. Words like "abandon" are bandied about.

Campbell has remained steadfast and while taken aback by the new celebrity, says the "nasty" letters are minimal but troubling but that the positive greatly outweighs the negative and it is the support from soldiers that inspires him to chase his dream and play in the National Football League.

"I've gotten some nasty letters from people questioning what I'm doing, asking me how I can look my classmates in the face," Campbell recounts. "But that's been a very small minority. On the day I was drafted I got over 300 e-mails, lots of them from soldiers serving overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan. Those guys said they were behind me and so were their commanding officers."

The Army has enacted this rule while the Air Force and Navy have not. The Lions also have Army defensive lineman Cameron Craig and Air Force linebacker Drew Fowler trying out in camp. While the debate is liable to continue, Fowler is hoping for a similar chance and is hopeful.

“It definitely looks positive for us with what Army’s done allowing Caleb to get drafted and this and that,” Fowler states. “This biggest thing, what it boils down to for me in my case is, I have to make a team first. Once that happens, that opens up a lot of doors.”

This is where sports and real life collide with resounding impact. Who is right and wrong is up for grabs and is a matter of opinion. With opinions coming from each side of those doors, opening them may not be pleasant to start, but also may be a nice change from simply slamming them shut.

Magic-Pistons: Orlando Is Magic, Detroit's Tragic

Mick Miller — Wed, 07 May 2008 16:23:08 -0400

April, 2003. The last win the Magic had over the Pistons in the playoffs. Until Wednesday night.

What a resounding win it was, and it may not be the last.

No wonder those opening game losses caused so many tears, after such a drought which included a sweep and a comeback from being down 3-1 in the McGrady days.

Those of you with younger siblings know how it is when you make them cry. When everything is all better, the tears are still there, but the sobbing quiets.

While this game was all Magic, it was ultimately the Pistons' play that was most tragic. This is, and has always been, the biggest problem I have with Pistons head coach Flip Saunders.

You have a 2-0 lead in the series, and either he or the players change up defensive philosophy. Instead of taking away the three Wednesday night from a jump shooting team, Detroit allowed them to find the range all game long.

The result? A repeated and consistent deep hole to climb out of. Although they were able to chisel away at the less-experienced Orlando squad, Detroit went cold in the fourth, (sound familiar?) and lost this game 111-86.

The Pistons also lost team captain, point guard, unquestioned leader, former finals MVP, and one of the league's best clutch shooters: Mr. Big Shot, Chauncey Billups. Stepping on the foot of Jameer Nelson, Billups' legs spread to a near gymnastic split, causing him a painful hamstring injury.

His status for game four is up in the air. With Billups, the Pistons were in for a tough fight against a Magic team that was, quite frankly and pardon the French, pissed off and chomping at the bit.

After Chauncey's exit early in the first, the load fell onto rookie guards Rodney Stuckey and Arron Afflalo to play major minutes. Both, while showing their inexperience, played above and beyond expectations.

Stuckey shot a terrible five for 13, but was a very Chauncey-esque nine for nine from the line. He finished with 19 points. The rest of his game lacked, and two assists will not get it done.

Afflalo played his usual staunch defense and actually helped slow Nelson, who started off like a house of fire with 12 first quarter points, and finished with 18, including seven big rebounds.

The problem was the defense. I'm not a Rashard Lewis fan because he is one-dimensional and Detroit allowed him to play to his strength, the outside shot. He scored a season-high and a playoff career-high 33 points.

After being in the league for 10-plus seasons, I'm not impressed and he reaps the benefits of having Dwight Howard down low. Although many would argue, to me, this guy is not a $120 million player.

Howard put forth his second strong game, dominating the paint on both ends. He had 20 points, 12 rebounds, and six blocked shots—four came early in the first period, which helped get them out to their big lead.

Hedu Turkoglu (seven for 18, three of five from the arc, 18 points) has looked like everything but the most improved. He started slow again in game three.

He did, though, come through late when the Pistons were scrambling to play both Antonio McDyess (shot poorly, going zero for two) and Theo Ratliff (zero for one) out on the wing when switching to the zone.

They don't come out far enough to challenge the shooters because they are shot blockers and rebounders. Again, Flip is not making the adjustment. The Magic are back to their averages of 25 three-point attempts over the last two games, and it shows.

While placing Jason Maxiell (his first absolutely woeful performance of the playoffs) on Howard makes some sense, and obviously McDyess and Ratliff will take their turn, the length and athleticism of Amir Johnson would help.

Not that he would have to face the much stronger and physical Howard, but playing off and being the help defender makes a lot of sense to me. It would be a better decision than playing Walter Herrmann, which still strikes me as a bad hunch played by coach Saunders.

Juan Dixon should have been active tonight. He is much more of a scorer than Afflalo, and the mix of these guards would have especially been a major help tonight. He plays both guard spots and is the best from the outside off the bench.

Saunders puzzles me with his bench most of the time. Jarvis Hayes should have seen the floor sooner, to see if he could help the Pistons climb back in and get over the hump. It didn't happen.

Lindsey Hunter? Why did we "get him ready" for the playoffs and not use him against the quicker Nelson?

The Pistons shot poorly for long stretches and weren't exactly sharing the ball with a meager 12 assists. I marvel at the fact that with a make here or there, they could have put a little more pressure on the Magic late in the game.

After being down 18, they shaved the lead to three. It's one thing to get a big lead; it can be equally as tough to play with a lead. Quite honestly, Orlando nearly blew this game.

They closed strong as Detroit waved the white flag with five minutes left. Those who saw it know that the Magic could have been had, without Chauncey Billups.

Rasheed Wallace got into foul trouble early (ummm...nah, I won't go there), got frustrated and shot pathetically, going four for 15 from the field. Tayshaun Prince's 22 points look impressive, but did nothing while the Magic were building their commanding lead.

However, it was he and Stuckey (needs to shoot the three when it's there) who began the comeback by taking advantage of their match-ups in the post. Rip Hamilton started slow, but finished 10-20 for 24 points and had a game-high six turnovers.

The Pistons did the same thing Orlando did in game two. They choked in the fourth and lost.

Now that Orlando and Stan Van Gundy got their home game, crowd, cooking, and calls (he, he, he...had to), it's a series again. Game four at Amway Arena is critical for the Pistons.

The team will need Billups without question. After tonight, with some better decision making, tweaking of bench rotation, reverting back to the defensive game plan of games one and two, and ball movement with the extra pass, Detroit is still very capable of going back to the Palace up 3-1.

A valiant effort and a near win—that's something the final score doesn't show. Detroit will need Mr. Big Shot to have one in this series.

Jason Maxiell Gets the Feel as Detroit Downs Magic

Mick Miller — Sat, 03 May 2008 16:08:26 -0400

Saturday night's alright for fighting, and we almost saw one in the latter stages of Detroit's game one 91-72 playoff win at the Palace.

A frustrated Rashard Lewis, mirroring the entire Magic squad, nearly threw Theo Ratliff to the floor, which caused tempers to flare in the midst of another dominant Piston second half to close out a victory.

Pair that incident with a double-foul (Antonio McDyess, Dwight Howard), which led to double technical fouls (Rasheed Wallace, Hedo Turkoglu) in the first half. You can see already where this series is headed.

Lewis was hit with a foul and a technical foul. The fouls seemed to sum up a Magic effort that fell short of their regular-season performance and decisive momentum gained in their first round win over the Toronto Raptors.

After playing Detroit very tough in the first half, the teams tied at 22 after one and down merely a point at 44-43 at the half. But the Pistons made the defensive adjustments at the half and took Dwight Howard and the rest of the Magic out of their rhythm and their offense.

Detroit dominated the second half 48-30 by stepping up their game on both ends. Gone were the careless turnovers (okay, not entirely) as the Pistons went over 21 minutes of the third and fourth quarters after having five in the first half.

They forced the Magic into three critical miscues in the third when it was a four point game and turned it into a ten point game and they turned it up from there.

It was the Piston guards who once again set the tone for the offense in outscoring the Magic backcourt 24-8 in the first half. But with little help from the rest of the team, the Magic hung around. Being the best three-point shooting team in the NBA, the Magic could explode at anytime.

It didn't happen. They were 1-10 from the arc and after they took their first leads just into the third at 44-43 and 46-45 with 10:08 left, the Pistons came out and put them away.

A 21-3 run by Detroit and tenacious defense on Howard, who finished with 12 points and eight rebounds and obvious goaltending calls that looked as if he had given up, opened up some breathing room and caused the Magic to press.

While they closed out the third period with a 9-1 run (caused by a sloppy spurt of poor offensive execution by Detroit), the lead was still seven 65-58 and the game still in the balance.

But as we saw in the Sixer series, you could see that the fourth would belong to the home team.

The stats may not show it, but the hero of this game was Jason Maxiell. Starting in place of Antonio McDyess (and I will say it again, the move should be permanent), coach Flip Saunders placed him on the athletic Howard, while Rasheed Wallace opened on Lewis, who likes to float on the outside on offense.

Outsized but not out-toughed, Max did a heck of a job in helping the team holding down the league's new Man of Steel.

But in the final quarter, it was Maxiell's offense that took over. Active both inside and out, Max scored eight consecutive Piston points and 10 of his 12 in the stanza by showing the confidence in his ever-improving jump shot, which he continually went to and converted on, including two as the period opened.

Sandwiched around Rodney Stuckey's first basket of the game and Detroit was buzzing along with the crowd. Toss in nine rebounds and three blocked shots and I'm giving Max the Player of the Game Award. A 17-4 run in the final period shut the Magic down at the Palace for game one.

You can't say enough about the team's defensive effort as the Magic are the league's sixth best scoring team at nearly 105 points per game. Hedo Turkoglu, the leagues most improved player, scored 18 along with Lewis. With Howard's 12, you have 48 points and the rest of their team scored half that many.

Orlando averaged nearly 25 three-point attempts and 10 makes during the season, yet were held to a 2-15 performance from deep. The Pistons made them put it on the floor and when they did, someone was waiting for them. They would have nothing handed to them, and they didn't help their cause by going 10-20 from the stripe.

Chauncey Billups led the Pistons with 19 points and seven assists. Rip Hamilton, averaging 19.7 in the playoffs so far, added 17 to go with six rebounds.

Tayshaun Prince had 12 points, eight boards, and five assists while Wallace again made a giant impact with little scoring with eight points, five rebounds, and three assists.

Although he shot an unimpressive 3-9 from the field, it was his 2-4 from three that opened up the lane for the bigger Detroit guards to post and drive against the smaller and weaker Magic guards.

Dwight Howard did slightly injure his thumb by banging it on Lewis' elbow while going for a rebound in the third. He sat for a spell and came back with it taped some but was ineffective. I saw both it being wrapped heavily and with nothing on it so the severity is still unknown, but I suspect that with the game in hand, there was no sense in testing it.

It will be interesting to see how he and his thumb respond Monday in game two. I would look for a tougher go of it in next game and Orlando's outside shooting to drastically improve.

Let's go Pistons, leave the switch on for us.

Sixers Disappear; Pistons Play Magic in Round Two

Mick Miller — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:42:34 -0400

The Pistons and Sixers were the only game in town. Literally.

In the only playoff game in the NBA Thursday night, Detroit closed out the "Philly Cinderelly" story tonight (much to my surprise) by winning big in what was a carbon copy of game five; they got out to a substantial lead in the first quarter and the young Sixers could not dig themselves out. In watching the Pistons for 30-plus years, I have seen them go through the same ordeal. You have to learn how to win, but you have to learn what it takes to do it consistently. The Sixer team that won two games in this series was a stark contrast to the one that lost four games as you could see the confidence sucked from them. I know that sounds elementary, but their losses were so decisive that it took the shine off their wins. Tonight, the luster was completely dusted, 100-77.

It always amuses me how television dictates what the so-called experts and commentators say. When Philadelphia had a couple wins and the series was tied, Philly was young and exciting and playing like they had nothing to lose. But after games five and six, they all revert back to how much better the Pistons were and are. I agree, but after last year's meltdown against the Cleveland Cavaliers, I am not naive enough to think the Sixers couldn't have won this series. With their star, Andre Iguodala shooting HORRIBLE and turning the ball over, Philly was still effective. If their field goal shooting had held up, this series could have at least went seven. The losses demoralized them. Thaddeus Young, who was so electric in the beginning of games disappeared. Willie Green shot so well in the first couple games but then couldn't buy a basket and his offensive frustration carried over to his defense on Rip Hamilton, who struggled with his shot but found it when it counted. Reggie Evans, who was waving his index finger in the "we're number one" fashion and celebrating with the crowd fizzled from his early sizzle. Samuel Dalembert was a load and a problem in the middle early in the series, hitting the fifteen-foot jumper and blocking shots, disappeared. Andre Miller who outplayed Chauncey Billups in games one and two, became very ordinary, very quickly.

I understand the math in moving sharp-shooter Kyle Korver during the season. His big contract will come off the books and it gave the team a chance to start Young, who I think is an All-Star in two years and will be a great compliment to A.I. and Louis Williams, who needs consistency. Iguodala held up well during the season as "The Man", but seemed to buckle under the burden early in the series. I agree with the consensus, he needs to live in the gym this summer and perfect that jumper. From three, from mid-range, from everywhere. He constantly wanted a call driving to the hoop, sometimes getting it, sometimes not, but Detroit was going to let him shoot the jumper, knowing that was their best defense against him, as well as the rest of the athletic Sixers. They need a threat or two out there. They have the coach that will take them to the next level, they just need some pieces.

Detroit needs to do whatever it takes to maintain this level of play. Fact is they were suppose to be this dominant. I don't agree with the thought that Philadelphia wasn't suppose to win a game as I predicted in my series preview that they would get a couple. It is of little comfort to see Boston have all they want with Atlanta as well as LeBron and the Cavs being tested by the Bullets because the Pistons' next opponent, Orlando, has been resting up and not so long that they will be all that rusty. They are going to come out very similar to Philadelphia, raring to go and nothing to lose. Difference is, they have both an inside game with Superman, Dwight Howard, already with three 20 point-20 rebound games, and outside with Rashard Lewis and the league's most improved player Hedo Turkoglu. The guards of Detroit will have to dominate, like they did again against Philly Thursday night.

Rip Hamilton came out and hit his first five shots, including a steal and three-point play on the lay-up to open the game, and wasn't about to repeat his 1-13 through three period performance his last game in his old stomping grounds. he scored 13 in the first as Detroit got out to a 30-12 lead and finished with 24 points on 9-14 shooting. He did commit five turnovers, which he needs to get under control as he has been careless with ball when passing. Billups finished with 20 points and 7 assists while Tayshaun Prince added 12 on 5-6 from the floor (44-67 for the series, 66%), 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Rasheed Wallace would hit only two shots, both threes, but were both daggers through the Sixers' heart in the first, reminding the young counterparts of his versatility.

Rodney Stuckey had a nice game, hitting a three (he should shoot more of them), finishing with 7 points, 5 rebounds (2 offensive) and four assists and Amir Johnson finally got some time after the game was decided and scored 10 poiints and grabbed 6 caroms. Although I applaud Antonio McDyess' grit and toughness, he is not valuable as he thinks of getting hit in his broken nose and is being pushed and challenged because of it and is having an awful time with his Rip-style protective mask (forgetting to put it on in one instance coming on the floor). I love Jason Maxiell as the starter and truly believe that he should remain in the starting line-up for the foreseeable future and next season. The Pistons have enough scoring options with their Big Four while he is the electricity, toughness, and energy the team seems to lack sometimes.

With the bench shortened up so far, players like Jarvis Hayes and McDyess need to make it happen early on offense or they'll sit. Detroit still has some trouble with the press as they are much too lax in their passing against it, being nailed for 8-second and shot clock violations. They are still turning the ball over way too much, especially for the league leaders in fewest per game and points allowed off those turnovers per contest. They need to continue their hot shooting (41-2 when shooting 45+%) because of their preferred deliberate, halfcourt style, especially from three as they are averaging 14 points per game from the arc (Philly averaged 5).

The Pistons are now 12-3 in closeout games since their title in 2004. Game one of the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals is Saturday in Detroit. And I am not sad to see Philadelphia go. At least if they are in Detroit Saturday, its not because of a game seven.

Michigan Lands Second Four-Star QB For 2009

Mick Miller — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:17:17 -0400

After landing prize quarterback recruit Kevin Newsome as part of his ever-exciting 2009 class, head coach Rich Rodriguez is keeping the pedal to the metal and making sure that the position will not be one of weakness in the future.

The team obviously has quarterbacks on their roster, but Steven Threet, David Cone, Nick Sheridan, or Lee Mondol don't appear to be built for the system and freshman Justin Feagin will be hard pressed to take the team where it needs to go in his first season. Newsome, from Virginia, is a Rivals.com four star recruit and even his presence did not discourage the latest four star signal caller from committing to the Maize and Blue.

Shavodrick Beaver, quarterback from Wichita Falls, Texas, is the second dual-threat signal caller Rodriguez has secured and is sending a message that no one position will be above open competition to field the best player. Both Mountaineer loses last season were without starting quarterback Pat White, and Rodriguez is in position to have an answer should that situation arise again. Those on the roster this season will have to get the team through the new staff's initial season, which will be painful at times, but fans can keep in their mind that the future looks good for the Wolverines.

Beaver made his commit without an official visit to Ann Arbor, but plans a visit for June. Other schools to offer were TCU, Nebraska, Clemson, Arizona, and Texas Tech. The early decision allows Beaver to set aside the big decision and focus on his task at hand and it did not bother him that Newsome was already in the fold.

"I was just glad that I got it over with so now I can focus on my senior season and winning a state championship," Shavodrick said. "It feels good."

Michigan quarterbacks coach Rod Smith told Beaver that Michigan was looking for two quarterbacks in the 2009 class and they would not waste any time in making their offers. Beaver had the support of his family and jumped at the chance to come to Ann Arbor.

"(Coach Smith) just said he's taking the first two (quarterbacks)," Beaver explains to Rivals.com. "It doesn't matter if I come in and start, truthfully. I just want to come in, compete and do my best."

Beaver is 6-3 and 177 pounds, runs a 4.55 forty yard dash, has a vertical jump of 38 inches and squats 385.

Piston Balance Beats Sixers 98-81

Mick Miller — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:02:02 -0400

If this is the Pistons turning it on, I hope they never find the off switch. For the second straight game, a team resembling the one that won 59 regular season games took care of the ball, and business, and stopped the upstart Sixers 98-81 to take a 3-2 lead in the first round series.

The Piston starters were lights out the minute the lights came on at the Palace. Chauncey Billups (21 points, 17 in the first half, 12 assists) and Rip Hamilton (20 points, 10-17 from the floor) were both aggressive from the tip, shooting a combined 9-11 from the field for 22 of the team's 35 first quarter points, while the team shot a collective 79%. A 16-2 run helped Detroit to get out to a 14 point lead at the end of one. But from what I've seen in this series, I knew it wasn't enough and there was too much game left to play.

Luckily the trend carried over into the rest of the team as well. Rasheed Wallace (19 points, 3-4 from the arc, 6 rebounds, 6 blocked shots) played equally effective defense on both Samuel Dalembert (2-4, 4 points) and Reggie Evans (1-3, 3 points) and it was the Pistons who were getting the loose balls and lucky bounces but still wen to the foul line only half as much. Philly's 24 attempts double Detroit's and they are now a +46 for the series. The difference tonight was an aggressive offense to match the defense, as the Pistons shot 58% for the game compared to 42% for the Sixers.

Tonight, Andre Iguodala was his old self, scoring 21 points on 8-13 shooting, grabbing 5 rebounds and dropping 6 dimes but still struggling with turnovers with a team and game high six. It was his supporting cast, who had been coming up so big throughout the first four games that went on a downward spiral. Three second calls and lane violations on free throws to missed lay-ups on the few fast breaks they got, demoralized the team as the game wore on. Andre Miller shot 5-17, finished with 13 points and had only 3 assists. Willie Green again labored from the field at 3-10, scoring 8 points and Thaddeus Young, who had been such a giant spark for the club was a mere flicker at 3-9 and 8 points. Louis Williams came off the bench to shoot 6-9 and score 16.

Tayshaun Prince continues his offensive evolution in the playoffs with 17 points and Jason Maxiell seems to be thriving in the starters role, grabbing a game-high 11 rebounds and blocking 3 shots. McDyess wasn't exactly elated about becoming a starter after the departure of Ben Wallace and seems to be better suited for coming off the bench, who Tuesday night simply provided a blow for the starters, who outscored the Sixers alone 83-81.

Former Piston and Michigan Wolverine Chris Webber spoke out on TNT Sunday night about the Pistons not showing Flip Saunders they same respect they did Larry Brown, which I actually agree with.

“No respect to Flip, but it doesn’t matter what Flip says,” Webber said during halftime show of Game 4 Sunday. “They come from a coach like Larry Brown, they look at him like he’s the epitome of basketball, and they feel like they can wait until the last game or the championship, and they won’t lose. They are really nonchalant, and that’s why I felt we lost last year.”

But since that halftime chat, Flip is obviously happy with the results and the team has been what we have seen all season long, and hope to continue to see throughout the playoffs.

“I talked at halftime, no one else talked at halftime, and I was happy with the way the team responded.”

Detroit has a chance to end the series Thursday in Philadelphia. The Orlando Magic, who closed out the Toronto Raptors 4-1, await the winner with center Dwight Howard, who is the first since Wilt Chamberlin to have three games of 20 points and 20 rebounds. Boston is now in a dogfight as well with Atlanta, who has tied up their series 2-2 and a game five against a Celtics team that escaped suspensions. They should have lost Kevin Garnett due to an altercation with Zaza Pachulia in which he pushed off a referee trying to play peacemaker.

Last Minute-Revised-Hurry Up Mock

Mick Miller — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 13:51:47 -0400

If you're like me, you cannot resist all of the television and Internet coverage and so-called experts trying to convince everyone (and themselves) that they are the ones who know how the NFL Draft will shake out. And after posting my mock draft on April 5th, I still like to believe that I too can determine team needs and most likely direction they'll take this weekend.

So far, those of us who nailed Jake Long at number one to Miami are a big ol' one for one. But you cannot but help but listen to the scuttlebutt and noise that filters through as teams jockey for position, even if they have no chance of moving. It is said that every team would like to trade down and that each and every front office in the league lie their behinds off this time of year.

So I thought I would give the mock another go. Some picks may change and although I cannot forecast many trades, they are certainly possible. Reading MVN's NFL Source and Draft sections, I can't help but agree and disagree with some of the viewpoints as I am sure there are those who would think I am full of it as well, but I want to change things up from my previous post. The synopsis after each selection will be shorter as we run the hurry-up mock.

1. Miami - Jake Long, OT, Michigan

Chalk one up.

Previous Prediction: same

2. St. Louis - Chris Long, DE, Virginia

I'm thinking that Atlanta may fall victim to the Rams and a little mind game with all they're talk about taking Dorsey. The Rams allowed Adam Carriker to get up to 315 pounds to better withstand the trenches and Clifton Ryan was a fifth round surprise and defensive end is the need there.

Previous Prediction: same

3. Atlanta - Glen Dorsey, DT, LSU

The defensive minded new head coach needs a building block in the middle and the losses from last season remain.

Previous Prediction: same

4. Oakland - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

LaMont Jordan, Justin Fargas, and Michael Bush would suggest the Raiders look elsewhere. But none are the home run hitter, all have injury issues, and the vision of McFadden and Russell in the backfield has to be to good pass up, not to mention Al Davis' need for speed. Coach Lane Kiffin is talking in the papers about trading down, but since 1996 the Raiders have only traded up.

Previous Prediction: same

5. Kansas City - Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State

The trade of Pro-Bowl defensive end Jared Allen to Minnesota opens up this pick of Gholston and the team would have to believe that Gunther Cunningham can still develop Tank Tyler and Turk McBride. With Minnesota's first rounder (17th), they can address the offensive lineman need.

Previous Prediction: Ryan Clady, OT

6. New York Jets - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

The recent trade of Dewayne Robertson to Denver opens up a need for an elite defensive tackle although the same question may be posed here; is Ellis a 3-4 nose? This could be a little high for Ellis and a trade down is possible.

Previous Prediction: Vernon Gholston, DE

7. New England - Keith Rivers, LB, USC

There are holes on this team and could go in many directions. With the free agent signings of Fernando Bryant, Jason Webster, and Lewis Sanders, the team can afford to take the bigger impact player to fill the bigger need.

Previous Prediction: Leodis McKelvin, CB

8. Baltimore - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

Still not buying the Falcons taking Ryan, but there remains a possibility of a team trading up to seven to steal him. I still like him here.

Previous Prediction: same

9. Cincinnati - Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida

The losses of Justin Smith and Bryan Robinson means pairing Harvey with Antwan Odom solves some of the pass rush issues and may allow their less than elite defensive tackles to be effective. Don't rule out a trade down for a receiver as that situation is becoming dire.

Previous Prediction: Sedrick Ellis, DT

10. New Orleans - Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

I believe that acquiring Jonathan Vilma and Dan Morgan leave the Saints in better shape than their secondary is still in even after signing Randall Gay and Aaron Glenn. They still feel a need at defensive end as well, but in this scenario, they have their choice of the top corners. McKelvin would fill a need at both corner and bolstering an anemic return game, saving Reggie Bush from any double duty.

Previous Prediction: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB

11. Buffalo Bills - Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tenn. St.

The Bills have big needs at corner and receiver. They have smaller receivers and covet and bigger target to offset that. There are receivers available later and I doubt the top corners are going to last the first round, so someone to match-up with Randy Moss is vital and the 6-2, 183 pound DRC may give them a chance to do so. Or will they deal?

Previous Prediction: Mike Jenkins, CB

12. Denver - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.

They have some offensive holes and they have filled them with veteran second tier wide receivers and with their experience in getting late round gems at running back, the retirement of Matt Lepsis means drafting a tackle.

Previous Prediction: Keith Rivers, LB

13. Carolina - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

The team needs a tackle to play opposite Jordan Gross who is moving to the left side and Travelle Wharton moving to guard. Drafting Williams will secure an option of moving Gross back if he cannot make the switch.

Previous Prediction: same

14. Chicago - Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

Again, I think there is lip service being paid by talking up Illinois' Rashard Mendenhall at this spot enticing possible deals. Reuben Brown and Fred Miller are out of the picture and the power running game they covet needs road graders.

Previous Prediction: same

15. Detroit - Jerod Mayo, LB, Tennessee

The Lions proved with the selection of Ernie Sims at nine in the past that draft position and what other people think doesn't matter. Point blank, they need a middle linebacker and Mayo is the best fit for the Tampa Two.

Previous Prediction: Rashard Mendenhall, RB

16. Arizona - Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida

They resigned Eric Green and Ralph Brown and brought in Michael Adams and moved Antrel Rolle to safety. I know they would like a running back here, but the position is deep and the draft and the team is not at corner.

Previous Prediction: Antoine Cason, CB

17. Kansas City - Branden Albert, G/T, Virginia

Albert is flying up a lot of boards, but you have to wonder if most have him playing LT in the pros, why did he not beat out D'Brickashaw Ferguson (who is slowly adjusting in the NFL) last season instead of playing next to him and remain at guard after he left for the Jets. His versatility helps the Chiefs here, a more realistic place for him to be taken.

Previous Prediction: Derrick Harvey, DE

18. Houston - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

Different mock, same reasons. The Texans need a bull steer to rumble.

Previous Prediction: same

19. Philadelphia - Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan St.

If the team does indeed trade Lito Sheppard, this pick could change, but I doubt it. I still like Thomas here and they only signed Reno Mahe last year out of desperation. Thomas could fill the return role and while their starting tackles Jon Runyan and Tra Thomas (34, 33), there is depth at the position to address later.

Previous Prediction: same

20. Tampa Bay - Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville

As in my previous mock, Brohm is ready made for the QB-lovin' Gruden and the Bucs and a receiver can be had later.

Previous Prediction: same

21. Washington - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

The big, physical, and fast Sweed will be a fine compliment to the speedier and smaller Santana Moss and Antwaan Randle-El.

Previous Prediction: Malcom Kelly, WR

22. Dallas - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona.

Bringing in Pacman could be a coup, but who really knows when he sees the field? Receivers will be around later in the second round.

Previous Prediction: Limas Sweed, WR

23. Pittsburgh - Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College

The Steelers need lineman and hope one of the top tier selections are left on the board.

Previous Prediction: Brenden Albert, G/T

24. Tennessee - DeSean Jackson, WR, California

Losing Pacman Jones means no dynamic presence in the return game and adding Jackson means speed at receiver for Vince Young. The team gave a big deal to Justin Gage and brought back Justin McCareins, meaning they can go with the smaller Jackson.

Previous Prediction: same

25. Seattle - Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina

The front office has said recently that their core belief is to continually stock both offensive and defensive lines. The loss of Chuck Darby in free agency means a hole a defensive tackle.

Previous Prediction: Dustin Keller, TE

26. Jacksonville - Quentin Groves, DE, Auburn

A speed rusher is the need in J'ville and Clemson's Phillip Merling hasn't had the off-season to warrant a selection here.

Previous Prediction: same

27. San Diego - Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina

Meet the new burner to replace Michael Turner. If they go with Felix Jones here, I wouldn't be surprised as they are in position to take any position.

Previous Prediction: Gosder Cherilus, OT

28. Dallas - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

Standing by the the Razorback here as Jones can't resist.

Previous Prediction: same

29. San Francisco - James Hardy, WR, Indiana

Losing Darrell Jackson makes this a huge need for the club and this pick stays the same with me.

Previous Prediction: same

30. Green Bay - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

Not much behind starters Charles Woodson and Al Harris and they lost back-up Frank Walker in free agency to Baltimore.

Previous Prediction: same

31. New England - FORFEITED

Yep, still.

32. New York Giants - Kenny Phillips, S, Miami

Still liking my original pick here despite Tyrell Johnson's late push up the boards.

Previous Prediction: same

Some changes and still not allowing for any more trades that may happen, but what can you do. A lack of sleep due to the draft being so close does evil things to one's mind. Be nice to be in the know about possible moves, but anyone outside the war room need to play GM on their own.

Pistons-Sixers: Detroit Ties Series

Mick Miller — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 16:14:50 -0400

This is what I call reality TV.

The Detroit team that played Wednesday night was a far cry from the mess that was in the Palace last Sunday. And although they looked as if they were pressing a little early in the game, it was the sense of urgency that got the job done from the opening tip until the final buzzer as when they got up by double digits at the half this time, they kept the foot on the gas and evened this series up heading into Philadelphia at a game apiece.

Rasheed Wallace (16 points) continued his torrid play as the Sixers still do not have a viable plan to handle him. The big difference in game two was the increased intensity on defense from the start. In game one, Philly opened each quarter with little runs of 4-0, 6-0, and 8-0 to get things rolling. In game two, not happening. Everything was contested from crossing the time line to each and every pass and held the Sixers to a 40% game from the floor.

What Went Right

The starters weren't about to have a repeat of Sunday's lackluster first quarter. Although Chauncey Billups would not score in the first half, he would get his team mates good looks and make sure there would not be any let downs. Rasheed Wallace opened quickly with 11 points in the first quarter, 13 in the first half, while Tayshaun Prince got aggressive along with Rip Hamilton and took the ball to the hole, tallying 14 and 10 first half points respectively. Antonio McDyess found his jumper early (finished with 16) and got active on the boards (game-high 12 boards) and by the half, the Pistons had four starters in double figures and a 17 point edge.

The Pistons finished with a 26-12 advantage in assists, which speaks to the extra pass and ball movement. Though Billups would finish with 9 points, they came in a five minute stretch in the third quarter, consisting of two 3's and a three-point play the old fashioned way in leading the team to a 28-18 third period. Rip, much more active coming off screens and making shots, led the club with 20 points to go with 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Prince finally shrugged of the tentative play and added 16 while holding Sixer star Andre Iguodala to a 1-9 shooting night.

What Went Wrong

While the Pistons began the game much better, they still had sloppy moments of turnovers and mistakes. If it were not for Philly's poor shooting, they could have very well been in the game, at least early. They stayed within reach at 6-8 points for much of the quarter but outside of Andre Miller's 11 first half points, the team's frustration grew and matters only got worse for them. Reggie Evans had another strong game off the bench with 13 points, 11 rebounds with 6 on the offensive glass. Louis Williams scored 17 while youngsters Thaddeus Young and Rodney Carney each tallied 11.

Detroit shook things up by running some full court press and falling back into a zone. This works slowing the ball up the floor, but whenever the Sixers would persist and insist they get to the rim, the Pistons always seem to be burned by the backdoor lay-up. Using the scheme to shake things up I understand, but sticking with it for any length of time would be a mistake. Came in and closed things out in garbage time, but their collective plus-minus figures was a -7.

How We Won

Defense, defense, and more defense. Willie Green, solid in game one, was 2-8 from the floor. Samuel Dalembert was 1-6, Louis Williams 4-12, and A.I. was non-existent. They got the Sixers down and kept them down. The turnovers and offensive rebounds Philadelphia forced could not be capitalized on and the Pistons kept their fast break virtually invisible. Jason Maxiell continues to shine with super-human effort and kept possessions alive with hustle. I still like the idea of him starting over McDyess, but its tough to knock Antonio when he shoots 8-14.

Whats Next

Game three is Friday in Philadelphia at 7:00 PM. With the win tonight, the Pistons assure themselves a game five back at the Palace. What I hope is that the wake-up call has been placed and the Pistons now have one single gear. The team that played Wednesday is the one that should meet the Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals. One step at a time though, as just as the Sixers came out firing in game one, they are returning home and will be a tough out.

Detroit Lion Draft Day: Certain Uncertainty

Mick Miller — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 04:44:57 -0400

With the draft quickly approaching, there is one thing NFL and Lions' fans can be sure of: there is nothing we can be sure of.

The thing everyone must remember about all that has been printed and said in the papers and media is that rarely do teams tell the truth about what direction they want to take in the draft, because it's all supposedly a big secret.

Of course, as fans, we can see where our team's weaknesses lie. We can also see the picks and signings that should, or should not be made.

And just like the rest of the league, the Lions would be open to moving down and garnering more picks. Lets face facts: though the NFLPA is dead-set against it, rookies make more money than they should before they ever prove they have earned it.

That being said, the Lions at pick 15, are not in a horrible position. And there should be a very good player there for the team to select.

The problem is that in these waning days leading up to draft weekend, the poker game being played is more about bluffs than anything else. All of the mock drafts we've read, the visits made by prospects, and all of the workouts coaching staffs have made still make trying to nail down who will be available and when, just like roulette.

The Lions have used free agency and trades to fill some of the gaping holes on the roster and what was once an area of certain attention in round one, the secondary, is now an area that can be addressed on the second day.

Still, rumors run rampant.

The Lions have repeatedly denied any interest in trading wide receiver Roy Williams, yet the stories won't go away. It doesn't help that now when asked about it, Matt Millen simply laughs, and who ever knows what he's thinking to begin with.

It sounds as if head coach Rod Marinelli has his way, Roy is a Lion for life. Does another team want him badly enough to make a deal the Lions cannot refuse?

Doubtful in my opinion, not with the draft so deep at the position.

What of the weakness along the offensive line? Will the change in philosophy, less passing and more of a power running game commitment, mean that the current lineman employed by the team fit the bill, or do they need to make improvements there?

Do the Lions move up? There is talk about the Lions loving Florida defensive end Derrick Harvey, but that with his recent stock rising, he may not be there for the team.

The same can be said about Rashard Mendenhall, who goes to the Lions at pick 15 in many mock drafts, yet the Bears and Panthers are chirping about his potential as well. The same teams have shown interest in the offensive lineman that may be there as well (Jeff Otah, Chris Williams, etc).

Columnists like Sports Illustrated's Peter King also like to shake things up by throwing the latest tidbit out there, such as the Lions moving up to take Matt Ryan of Boston College. Yeah, I believe that. Not.

What is also up in the air is who the Lions would really like at 15.

Tennessee linebacker Jerod Mayo has been like the team's dirty little secret, and, much like Ernie Sims at number nine, the Lions may like to nab him with their pick, regardless if he is "rated" that high by the "experts."

But in watching "Path to the Draft" last night, someone there has the Patriots taking Mayo at seven, due to his recent workouts that are skyrocketing his draft stock. He is ideal for the middle linebacking position in the Tampa Two. Can Keith Rivers play middle? Will he fall that far or with his recent glowing statements after his visit about the Lions, will they move up to take him?

How about Penn State's Dan Connor, straight from Linebacker U and their all-time leading tackler? Will Millen be moved to select a Nittany Lion alum? The Lions missed out on Jonathan Vilma and Dan Morgan and are in need with the release of Boss Bailey, but who will be there on the shelf for the Lions to take?

Get your popcorn ready and stock the beverages (I've got one of those Subway six-foot subs ordered), the day is coming and your guess is as good as mine, if not better.

The Lions should be able to nail down a very serviceable player at 15, someone who will play and contribute right away. I recently read on a Lions message board that all front offices lie and all sports reporters and broadcasters are idiots. The reason there is so much out there is no one really knows and for the most part, neither do the brass.

Until players start falling off the board, no one knows who is available to them. Its a gamble, a crap-shoot, a shot in the dark, which is why other leagues use the term "lottery."

One thing is certain, that no one is certain. Round and round she goes...

Piston Playoff Preview

Mick Miller — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 08:35:16 -0400

The time for talk has passed and the time is now.

Since Detroit's world championship in 2004, the starters have logged serious minutes and played every regular season game as if it were a game seven, only to run out of gas by the conference finals. The notion of the club "turning it on and off" became too cliche' for team architect Joe Dumars and instead of blowing up the team, he vowed to infuse youth and energy in the rotation and preserve the legs and minutes of the Piston starting five, even if it meant sacrificing a few wins.

With the starters minutes at a five year low (32 minutes per game), the results have been two fold. Take Chauncey Billups for example. By playing a mere 3-4 minutes less per game on average, over an 82 game schedule, he plays in approximately 5-7 fewer games. So the starters should be in much better shape and the experience the minutes gave our young bench should make them a very serviceable unit. They carried much of the load over the waning games of the regular season and appear to be ready for prime time.

Round one matches the Pistons against the vastly improved Philadelphia 76ers. After dropping the first two games to the Pistons in the regular season, they battled back to take the second pair. Detroit was in the midst of saving their starters, but nevertheless, you can see the athleticism and warrior mentality that the young Sixer line-up can bring. They'll contest you on the ball and off the dribble and boards.

Let's look at each position and remember, it may look like the edge is heavily in favor of the Men from Motown, but the playoffs breed a different animal. The Pistons clearly have the edge in experience (647 games to 95) with Tayshaun Prince having played in more playoff games (97) than the entire Sixer squad.

Point Guard- Chauncey Billups vs Andre Miller

On the surface, Billups would appear to have a decided edge. And in my opinion, he does, but the numbers show the minimal difference in statistical impact. Both he and Andre Miller average 17 points, seven assists, and 1.3 steals per game while committing only 2-3 turnovers per contest. The difference is in reputation. Billups is "Mr. Big Shot" and drained 137-342 threes (40%) and hits 91.7% from the line (Miller hits 77%). He went to the line 102 more times than Miller in five less games, many in the closing seconds of wins and placed seventh in the NBA in "Super Clutch" points per 48 minutes (52.8). Miller is not a threat from three (3-34), meaning he has to extend more energy in guarding Billups, cover more of the floor, and not give up bad fouls.

Edge: Detroit

Shooting Guard- Rip Hamilton vs Willie Green

Rip Hamilton logs more minutes than Detroit native Willie Green (who plays about half the game on average) and is the Pistons' leading scorer (17.5). And like Billups, Hamilton hits 83% from the line and 44% from the arc (compared to 28% for Green) which opens the floor. Pair that with Rip's constant movement around screens and on the break and 4.2 assists per game, you have a decided edge at this position as well. Green did close the season on a high note, scoring a season-high 27 against the Bobcats and playing against his hometown team, he will be motivated. Key here will be while Green plays much less minutes, he turns the ball over just as much as Rip (1.86-1.48).

Edge: Detroit

Small Forward- Tayshaun Prince vs Andre Iguodala

Another hotly contested match-up and as crucial as any. Iguodala is the pulse of the Sixers and their leading scorer and nearly twenty a game (19.8) and is two spots behind Billups in "Super Clutch" points. Where he matches up better than you would think is defensively. Prince is clearly the Piston stopper and his reputation throughout the league is one of a tough night for any team's top gun, as it will be for A.I. as well. But Iguodala finished fifth in the league in steals (2.1 per game) and mirrors the gambling, defensive attitude of the team, spearheaded by head coach Maurice Cheeks, who was a stout defender in his playing days.

Edge: Philadelphia

Power Forward- Antonio McDyess vs Reggie Evans

Though both are fierce rebounders, McDyess is much more versatile and reliable on the offensive end of the floor. His outside game will draw Evans out away from the basket and allow for the other Pistons to offensive rebound and get second chances. The Sixers want to get out and run and this will be a critical area. McDyess guards both forward and centers, so he will not be overwhelmed by the larger Evans. Both average between eight and nine boards a game. Evans turns the ball over much more and is extremely limited on offense (shoots under 50% from the stripe) and blocked a paltry eight shots over the course of the season.

Edge: Detroit

Center- Rasheed Wallace vs Samuel Dalembert

Wallace is the Piston "X" factor. When he's motivated and playing well, Detroit is unstoppable. He plays better on the road than at home and will excel wherever the team needs production. He is easily the top post player in this series and is deadly when hot from the arc or the lane. He has to be accounted for from three, which again means Philly's top rebounder and shot blocker Dalembert (10.4 and 2.3 per game) has to come out from the lane and pick Sheed up. Wallace will have to be on top of his game as well on the defensive end (1.7 blocks per game) as Dalembert average four offensive rebounds per game.

Edge: Detroit

Bench

In each game the two teams played this season, I have come away more and more impressed with the young players on both teams. Rodney Stuckey has blossomed into the "go-to" guy of the future for Detroit and Jason Maxiell has arrived as a force around the glass at both ends. Amir Johnson brings length and energy and Jarvis Hayes is lights out when on his offensive game. Arron Afflalo is a coming defensive stopper and the return of Theo Ratliff means a familiar asset in the paint, an eraser. Juan Dixon is a clutch and deadly shooter while veteran Lindsey Hunter can change games in limited moments.

The Sixers have some promise on their bench as well. Louis Williams, Rodney Carney, Thaddeus Young, and Jason Smith have all shown me solid play coming off the Sixer pine. Though game situations dictate minutes, each have spent time playing with the starters, making for some of the team's most effective five-man tandems, especially Williams and Smith, while Young's increased minutes helped spark the Sixers late season surge.

The late season play of the Detroit bench, sometimes playing most games, mean better cohesiveness and chemistry.

Edge: Detroit

Outcome

The Pistons are coming in with the attitude that every team is a threat. They know they haven't lived up to expectations over the past couple seasons and know the Sixers may be inexperienced, but don't know any better as well. They have nothing to lose and even if they were to get past Detroit in round one only to drop in the next, they would deem their season a great success and the future will look bright.

The Pistons have planned for the post season all year long and have succeeded in developing the bench to where its as deep as any in the league. There should be no more "turning it on and off" during the playoffs for this club. So when the lights go on, it will be game on, even in the first round.

Detroit wins in six games.