Bleacher Report - Articles by Mike Turnell

What Does the Future Hold for the Duck's Quarterback Position?

Mike Turnell — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:26:00 -0400

For Duck fans, the first game of the season was one of joy and extreme anxiety. Once again, the quarterback situation was a mystery for Chip Kelly and company. After the No. 1 quarterback on the depth chart, Nate Costa, went down, many people had some serious flashbacks to late 2007.

In recent memory, the Duck's have had some incredible quarterbacks. Akili Smith. Joey Harrington. Kellen Clemens. Dennis Dixon. Every one of those quarterbacks lead the Ducks to some of their most successful seasons. The common denominator for the Oregon Duck's success really seems to be a superstar quarterback.

What about this year? Costa goes down, a young quarterback who has drawn comparisons to Chase Daniel. His mobility, intelligence, and natural leadership qualities seem to come straight out of the spread-option handbook.

After three knee surgeries in three seasons, it's looking more doubtful by the day that Costa ever sees the field in a Duck uniform.

This leaves them with Justin Roper, who was fifth on the depth chart at the beginning of last season, as the starter. Roper had moderate success in 2007. After a UCLA game where he completed more passes to the opposing team rather than his own, he pulled himself together on the road for a solid Civil War outing against the Beavers.

With 144, two touchdowns, and an interception on top of 52.0 completion percentage, he solidified himself as the starter for the upcoming Sun Bowl. After a month and some extremely low expectations against another ex-No. 2 opponent in South Florida, Roper tied the Sun Bowl record for touchdown passes (four) to go along with 180 yards.

After one of the best recruiting classes in Oregon history, 3 quarterbacks came to challenge Roper for the starting spot. Junior College transfer Jeremiah Masoli, though undersized, has some eye-popping stats to go along with a JuCo title.

Last year he completed 214 of 349 passes for 3,065 yards, 26 touchdowns and only three interceptions for the City College of San Francisco.

He demonstrated his quick release and shifty footwork against the Huskies in week one after Justin Roper went down with a minor concussion (Can the Duck's go a game without losing a quarterback?!), he came off the bench to put up 126 yards and two touchdowns; not bad considering he hadn't started practice until the week before (he was recovering from a wrist injury.

What? you expected a Duck's quarterback to not be injured?). Not only did he start practice so late, but he also didn't warm up before the game. With all of that in mind, I'd say his first outing was very impressive.

One who also saw some field time against Washington was true freshman Chris Harper. Simply put, this guy is a beast. Weighing in at 230 lbs. and running a 4.45 forty-yard dash, this guy can play any skill position he wants; Mike Belotti has already dubbed him the most dangerous player on the team with the ball in his hands.

Carrying for 60 yards, a touchdown on five yards per rush, this guy has proven he can run against Pac-10 defense (albeit Washington's) in his very first game. Not only did he look confident on the field in front of the conference's craziest fans, he looked like he was having fun. Many believe he would be better suited as a filler; he could play any position the coach's needed at any precise moment.

The last quarterback, Darron Thomas, will likely be redshirted. He has already earned the name "Dixon-Clone" among many Duck fans because of his identical measurements and how he looks on the field. He is pure potential at this point.

The only way he will see the field is if extensive injuries occur (which, as we know, could very well happen). Coach's believe it would be best to stash him away while working on his passing technique and maintaining his already stellar running ability.

With all of these very different quarterbacks (a pocket passer in Justin Roper, a pure-scrambler in Chris Harper, or a healthy mix in the undersized Jeremiah Masoli) vying for the starting job, the coach's have some major decisions to make.

Although they have said time and time again that Justin Roper is now the undisputed starter, can they really go all season without a true dual-threat or above average lateral abilities?

I think the coaches should look into the consequences of this loss before going up against respectable defenses, such as UCLA, Oregon State, and USC. With all of these studs being within one of two years of each other, only a couple will truly get admirable playing time.

Many think that with all of these choices, the coaches will revert to the dreaded dual-quarterback system that was used when Dennis Dixon and Brady Leaf were competing for the starting position.

Although it was effective against Washington, I think it would be more of a hindrance against some tougher defenses. If the coaches want to do this right, they will choose one and stick to him.

What do you, the public, think? Which quarterback would best suit the needs of Oregon and it's high-octane spread-option offense? Can Justin Roper lead Oregon to the success it's fans so righteously believe it deserves?

First and Second Team, All-Clutch: An NBA Analysis

Mike Turnell — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 20:58:58 -0400

Although all facets of the game of basketball are important, some really stand out above the rest.

Being "clutch" is one of the most famous phrases in basketball. Who doesn't want to be the one that sunk that three-pointer from halfcourt to win the NBA championship? Every American child has dreamed of being carried off the court by the crowd, holding the trophy above your head for all to see.

The NBA has seen its fair share of clutch players in it's extensive history, most of them shooting guards. Without a doubt, these players receive more fame than the rest. They have the mental toughness, pure skill, and the flat-out most competitive natures in professional sports. Here is my team of the most clutch players of all time:

FIRST TEAM, ALL-CLUTCH

PG: Jerry West (6'2", 175 lb.)

Dubbed "Mr. Clutch," Jerry West couldn't be left off this list. Although most call him a shooting guard, he has said himself that he is just a "guard." Given that statement, and the logjam of clutch shooting guards, I decided to put him as my point guard.

In 55 Finals games, West averaged 30.5 points per game. And of course, his halfcourt shot to force overtime against the Knicks in the 1970 NBA Finals had to be one of the greatest buzzer beaters of all time.

Although they eventually lost in that game, the shot only counted for two points. If it was played with modern rules, it would have won the game.

SG: Michael Jordan (6'6", 215 lb.)

Michael Jordan was truly the best who ever played the game. He was the master of every aspect, including being clutch.

Jordan has an astounding 25 game-winning shots, 24 of which were in the last 10 seconds, including eight at the buzzer.

If clutch could be summed up in one moment, it had to be his free-throw line jumper to beat the Utah Jazz and bring home the Bulls' sixth NBA title.

SF: Larry Bird (6'9", 220 lb.)

Larry Bird was a master of the game—there was nothing he couldn't do with the ball in his hands.

The Celtics were 29-63 during the 1978-79 season, but made a drastic improvement to 61-21 the year Bird arrived. Although they lost to the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference Finals, they had a rematch the next season. Bird helped the Celtics overcome a 3-1 deficit and win the last three games by an average of 1.7 points.

After beating the Houston Rockets for the first of Bird's three NBA titles, he earned himself the reputation as one of the fiercest competitors in league history. He kept that distinction with some of the best finals performances the league has ever seen, posting more than 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists per game.

PF: Robert Horry (6'10", 240 lb.)

"Big-Shot Bob" is an extremely odd player. He was a solid role player when he was young, but the only time he ever did anything genuinely meaningful was in the last seconds of the game.

While he definitely doesn't deserve to be mentioned in the same sentence as the other players on this list, he has as many, if not more, clutch plays than any of them.

Horry holds numerous Finals records, such as most steals (7) and most three-pointers in a quarter (5). Horry has a staggering seven rings with three different teams (Lakers, Rockets, and Spurs).

No player has ever caused as much sheer frustration in the opposition's fans—that much I am sure of.

C: Shaquille O'Neal (7'1", 325 lb.)

Shaq is by far the most physically imposing center to ever play. He changed the game with his size and brute strength, literally bulling his way to the basket. His clutch plays were different than the others on this list. His ability to dominate the paint made all attempts at a last second lay-up worthless.

SECOND TEAM, ALL-CLUTCH

PG: Allen Iverson (6'0", 165 lb.)

Allen Iverson is, pound for pound, the toughest player to ever play in the NBA. He led the Philadelphia 76ers in scoring, assists, and minutes as a rookie. Although never advancing far in his early years, Iverson played as much as 44 minutes a game while sustaining injuries. Iverson carried the Sixers through the playoffs, and faced the Lakers in the 2001 NBA Finals, where he averaged 35.6 points per game.

SG: Reggie Miller (6'7", 195 lb.)

Miller has always been known for two things—three-point shooting and clutch plays. Reggie Miller became well-known during the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals after having a 39-point performance (including 25 in the fourth quarter) and his famous altercation with Spike Lee. Miller's career is littered with clutch performances, way too many to be named here.

SF: James Worthy (6'9", 225 lb.)

Although Worthy had great regular seasons, the playoffs and finals were where he really shined. His inspired play during the Boston-Los Angeles rivalry gave him the reputation as one of the premier players in the league.

His 17.6 points, 5.1 rebounds and three assists per game during the regular season warranted his selection as an All-Star, but his 22.2 points per game on 53 percent shooting in the Finals set him above the rest as a clutch player.

PF: Tim Duncan (6'11", 260 lb.)

Although his three-pointer in the first round of the 2008 NBA playoffs was a great clutch play, it will never be in the same league as the rest. However, Duncan is clutch in a different way than the rest of these players—his incredible mental toughness and consistency make pressure virtually non-existent to him.

C: Bill Russell (6'10", 220 lb.)

11 NBA titles—need I say more?

SNUBS

Kobe Bryant (6'6", 205 lb.)

Kobe is definitely the premier clutch player in the NBA today, but I still don't think he belongs with the rest of these legends. Once he is retired, I'm sure he'll have overtaken Reggie Miller's spot on the Second Team but not right now.

Tracy McGrady (6'8", 223 lb.)

This may come as a surprise, considering he's never been out of the first round of the playoffs, but his 13 points in 35 seconds was the most amazing thing I have ever witnessed.

Doug Flutie (5'10", 180 lb.)

You can't have an article about clutch plays and not include the little guy. Here's to you, Doug!

As you can see, players who aren't even All-Stars (e.g. Horry) can make a legacy for themselve by being clutch. Do you have any suggestions for the list? Comment and we can discuss who should go down in history as the most clutch players of all time!

Portland Trail Blazers Face a Tough Road Ahead

Mike Turnell — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 19:03:51 -0400

The tough road to glory just got a whole lot tougher. While all of the players on Portland's roster knew the road to the playoffs would be arduous, they did not expect their schedule to start as unfortunate as this.

With 15 of their first 22 games on the road, the Blazers young squad will need to adapt early. By this time in November, the partially inexperienced Portland frontcourt must face a line-up of some of the NBA's toughest.

Not only are their early games on the road, but 11 of the first 18 were in the playoffs last season. Teams such as San Antonio, Houston, and New Orleans make the trek down to the Rose City while some road games consist of trips to Detroit, Orlando, and Utah.

The Blazers open their season against the teams that battled each other in last season's Western Conference Finals: Los Angeles and San Antonio. While most believe Portland's roster is poised enough to handle this, many are still unsure of Greg Oden.

Oden will have his hands full against two talented front-lines in Andrew Bynum/Pau Gasol and Tim Duncan/Fabricio Oberto. As if playing against these well-versed NBA players wasn't hard enough, these two games will be nationally televised.

The trials for Portland's young frontcourt don't stop there. Take a look at some of the other post players Oden will be battling in the first month (counting October as part of November) of his rookie season:

• Phoenix Suns: Amare Stoudemire, Shaquille O'Neal

• Utah Jazz: Carlos Boozer, Mehmet Okur

• Houston Rockets: Luis Scola, Yao Ming

• Orlando Magic: Rashard Lewis, Dwight Howard

• New Orleans: David West, Tyson Chandler

• Minnesota Timberwolves: Kevin Love, Al Jefferson

Those are some tough players to handle, even if the games aren't on the road and/or nationally televised. If Greg Oden and the rest of the Trail Blazers can get through this rough first part of the season, things will be looking good for the rest of the season.

Oden admitted that confidence will be harder to come by now that he has sat out a whole season. With that in mind, he still says that he is looking forward to the Blazers' first game more than anyone else. Even if his confidence is lower than it should be, he still works as hard as he can and plays to the best of his abilities.

Portland's athletic trainer Jay Jenson was very pleased with Oden's first full-contact workout. He says there has been little pain and no swelling in his knee, both great indicators that the rehab was a great success.

At 7'0" tall and 290 lbs., Oden has the size to rule the paint. The upside for Oden is not only his size, but his running ability as well.

If he can utilize this past year where he has refined his post skills, nothing can stop Greg Oden from becoming a franchise center. Remember, this is the guy who became a college All-American with his dominant hand broken. Oden will be ready to face the NBA's best come October.

With the rehab for his knee finally over, all he has to look forward to is tip-off against Andrew Bynum on October 28.

(Information on Greg Oden's knee came from "Big Man's Small Step" by Jason Quick of the Oregonian.)

Is Jerryd Bayless the Answer to The Portland Trail Blazers Point Guard Needs?

Mike Turnell — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 10:48:46 -0400

Since being drafted 11th by the Portland Trail Blazers last June, Jerryd Bayless has been under much scrutiny by the fans. Although everyone acknowledges his considerable talent, many don't believe his skill set will mesh with the existing Portland backcourt.

Being described as a shooting guard stuck in a point guard's body has caused little excitement among Blazer supporters. Numerous bloggers and forum-members have expressed resentment toward the Portland front office for failing to bring them a pass-first point guard.

Although his 4 assists per game in college wasn't horrible, it certainly wasn't what most envisioned Kevin Pritchard would target in the draft. His outstanding 19.7 points per game indicates that Bayless is, above all, a scorer.

While fans and bloggers are protesting this new addition to the roster, Brandon Roy is applauding it. Recent interviews have shown that Roy will take over his fair share of the point guard duties, so a pure point guard isn't as pressing of a need. Brandon readily compliments Bayless' winning attitude, confidence, and his ability to adapt.

"The reason why I see me playing with Jerryd is because he can guard points,'' Roy said.

This also hints towards the general public that we are going to see Brandon running the offense more this season. Almost no one believes Brandon can play defense on point guards for 82 games. Bringing in Bayless will keep Roy fresh to bring the ball down the court for the full season.

He also squelched any objections from Bayless' ability to play alongside Roy: "That's why I tell people who say he is not a point: 'If he was a point, it would take away from what I do, so it's almost fine that he's not a point.'"

And, on the contrary to what most believe, Bayless is a good passer; it's just not his first option. While his assist numbers from the summer league are alarming, there are two factors that caused this.

First, the coaches told him to look at the rim, not for his teammates. Second, his teammates weren't what you'd call reliable. His assist stats will look better when he's feeding NBA caliber players; you can't expect him to put up 5 or more assists per game when he's passing to guys like Josh Davis.

Another attribute of Bayless' game that will complement the Blazer's team is his 3-point shooting. With the departure of James Jones, they'll need all the firepower they can get to replace him. His sharp shooting will also take pressure off developing post players Lamarcus Aldridge and Greg Oden.

So even though Bayless isn't a pure point guard, he can still fit into the Blazer's game plan; it's just a different route than most expected.

(Brandon Roy quotes came from "Part III - Roy and Bayless: A match made in heaven?" by Jason Quick of the Oregonian.)

The Finnisher: Will Petteri Koponen Ever Don a Portland Trail Blazers Jersey?

Mike Turnell — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 16:07:58 -0400

Petteri Koponen, who was drafted 30th overall in the 2007 NBA Draft, has been under the basketball radar since he was 16 years old.

Being one of the most hyped players to ever come out of a Nordic country, he naturally attracted the attention of NBA scouts. As a result, he was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers then traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, all by the age of 19.

Koponen has seen major success, both in Europe and abroad. He played in the World All-Star team of the Nike Hoop Summit in 2007, and found major success. At the tournament, he was considered one of the top players despite guarding future Top Five picks Derrick Rose and OJ Mayo.

Most Blazer fans are adamant that what this team needs is a solid pass-first point guard to make the leap from the lottery to the playoffs. Although Jerryd Bayless is ultra-talented, many believe his skill-set will not suit the needs of this organization.

Hippo T. of NBAdraft.net says: "(Koponen is) A classic pass-first, pass-second, shoot-third point guard when (he) is fully adapted to (a) team's system". That, along with an excellent basketball IQ and NBA size, leads most to believe that he could be the answer to Portland's point-guard issues.

After a good (but not great) 2008 Las Vegas Summer League, there has been much debate over whether he will take over Portland's last roster spot. Many believe he will develop into a NBA-caliber point guard under Nate McMillan's coaching faster than he would overseas.

Although it is easy to believe that the Blazers can wait it out and sign him next year if they have the space, it's not that simple. In this past year, Koponen's body has filled out and his skills have become much more refined; and as a result he has garnered a lot of interest in Europe.

Because of all this fame, he has several large, multi-year offers from established European clubs. Despite the fact that he has publicly stated that his first priority is to sign with the Blazers, he would gain much more financially to play for a Euroleague team.

Recent news shows that it is becoming more likely that the Blazers will not sign this Finnish superstar. Most people think that if we don't sign him now, he will be lost forever.

While it is probably true that he will sign a three-to five-year deal overseas, this isn't necessarily a bad thing. Being only 20 years old, his best basketball is still ahead of him.

If he signed with another team, he would get much more playing time against tougher competition than the D-League, which is most likely where he would end up.

The Blazers can still sign him when he is in his mid-20s. By then, he will have much more experience and obviously be more skilled.

So sit tight, Blazer fans, it is very unsettling to know that we won't be seeing his name for another couple of years, but Portland still holds his draft rights and a buy-out is always possible. We definitely haven't seen the last of the Finnisher.

Losing James Jones Might Hurt Blazers More Than Fans Think

Mike Turnell — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 19:50:30 -0400

James Jones was one of the Portland Trail Blazers' most important role players of the 2007-08 season. Jones had a prolific first half of the year, leading the NBA in three-point field goal percentage. A knee injury sustained in early February took him out of contention from the race, but it was widely recognized that he would have finished the season as the NBA's best three-point shooter.

Instead of exercising his player option that would have kept him in a Blazers uniform and paid him a handsome $3.1 million, he chose to test the waters of free agency. Being a South Florida native, he signed a five-year, $23 million (roughly) contract with the Miami Heat, where he will team up with Dwayne Wade, Shawn Marion, and newly drafted Michael Beasley.

His 8.0 points and 2.8 rebounds per game don't reflect on what an asset he really is. Although it's a stale phrase, "stats aren't everything" perfectly applies to a player like Jones. He doesn't need big minutes to make his contribution; he gave Portland a huge boost while only playing 22.0 minutes per game.

The reason for his outstanding value despite so few minutes comes from his style of play. While players like Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge are putting up big numbers in points, assists and rebounds, Jones is doing the little things that are needed but far too often overlooked. His free-throw percentage is a sterling 88 percent, and he always seems to make spectacular plays that aren't recorded on the stat sheet.

Although Jones' great percentage from the charity stripe seems like his best stat after his accuracy from beyond the arc, there is one that truly stands out above the rest. It's hard for people who don't regularly watch Trail Blazers games to understand Jones' value. Let's take a look at the Blazers' overall record in relation to Jones' playing time:

Record when James Jones played over 24 minutes: 22-6

Record when James Jones played under 24 minutes: 19-35

As you can clearly see above, the Blazers won much more frequently when Jones was on the floor. A simple correlation emerges from this analysis: When Jones plays well, the Blazers play well. His constant three-point threat kept defenses honest and took pressure off players like Aldridge and Joel Pryzbilla. He was pivotal during the Blazers' improbable 13-game win streak, averaging a monster 52.5 percent from long range.

While all of these on-the-court skills that Jones brings to the table are useful, it's his off-the-court reputation that sets him apart. Jones' personality is exactly what the Blazers front office has been looking for to shed the "Jail Blazer" image.

The additions of Greg Oden, Rudy Fernandez and Jerrod Bayless will improve the Blazers' record, but the loss of Jones will be sorely missed. Although the Blazers roster is full of character guys and great locker-room personalities, no one has the same ability that Jones did from behind the three-point line.

The most likely candidate to fill his shoes is Martell Webster, but consistency has been an issue for the 2005 sixth-overall pick. Another is Fernandez, who was known to be a great shooter in the Euroleague, though that's not guaranteed to translate to the NBA.

Kudos to the Miami Heat for a great pick-up. As a Blazers fan, it is sad to see such a quality player and individual go, but that's how the business works.

Josh Smith and Josh Childress Should Not Get Away from the Atlanta Hawks

Mike Turnell — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 21:45:48 -0400

The Atlanta Hawks and their young core of players have been under negative speculation for as long as they have been together.

Although they have an abundance of young talent, veteran leadership, and potential (especially in the Eastern Conference), they haven't done much with it.

When they forced the Boston Celtics, the eventual NBA champions, to an unlikely Game 7, a small part of that untapped potential surfaced. All of these young players that have been said to be busts were lighting up the Celtics' defense, which they prided themselves in.

A record of 37-45 may not look like much, but that playoff series really showed something. Al Horford, a rookie, was averaging a double-double against the defensive player of the year in Kevin Garnett and Kendrick Perkins, who is an excellent defender himself.

Not only was Josh Smith playing the great defense he was said to be destined to have, but he was putting up 15.7 points per game. Let's take a look at the Hawks important players who are guaranteed to be on the roster next season:

1. Al Horford, 22 years old- Center, 6'10" 245 lb.

One of the most promising players of the 2007 NBA draft exceeded expectations in his rookie year. Averaging 10.1 points and 9.7 rebounds per game during the regular season (12.6 and 10.4 during the playoffs), he was considered a legit threat in the post.

He not only used his great skill, but also his excellent basketball IQ to lead a very impressive rookie campaign. He even pushed for Rookie of the Year over the "guaranteed all-star" Kevin Durant.

Horford gave the Hawks a genuine post option that many believed to be their fatal flaw. With a couple more years of experience, he can be one of the best centers in the East, if not the entire NBA.

2. Marvin Williams, 22 years old- Power/Small Forward, 6'9" 230 lb.

Williams was a part of the young nucleus that many believed (and still believe) to be a bust. He uses his superior athletic ability as primarily a scorer.

Although he averages 14.8 points per game, many still believe he has not yet reached his full potential in that department. He has the tools to be a good defender, but he has not reached that point yet.

3. Joe Johnson, 27 years old- Shooting Guard, 6'7" 235 lb.

Like Childress, Joe Johnson excels in every aspect of the game. Johnson is the Hawks' star and leader on the court. Playmaking, be it scoring or passing, comes easy to Johnson, who averages 21.7 points and 5.8 assists per game.

He is your basic do-it-all offensive guy who can score from anywhere on the court. Despite being glorified for his offense, his defense is also above average.

4. Mike Bibby, 30 years old- Point Guard, 6'2" 190 lb.

Bibby was brought in at the trade deadline last season. His purpose was to give the Hawks an option at point guard, and some much needed veteran leadership for this young team.

Although he is often injured, his scoring, distributing, and clutch play have been proven.

He struggled to run the offense after being traded half-way through last season, but many believe he will do better once he has been under this offense longer.

These four players were monumental in the great series with Boston in the 2008 NBA Playoffs. However, without Josh Smith and Josh Childress, this group would not have had the success it did.

Their style of play bring a unique threat to opposing defenses. Here are Atlanta's important players who may or may not be on their roster come next season:

1. Josh Smith, 22 years old- Power/Small Forward, 6'9" 235 lb.

Josh Smith prides himself on his defense and slashing ability. Many believe the only thing holding him back from superstardom is his attitude.

He is a monster shot-blocker (see Game 4 against the Celtics in the 2008 NBA Playoffs) and defensive presence. He makes do in scoring without a jump shot, putting up 17.2 points per game. Using his exceptional leaping ability, he nets 8.2 boards a game.

2. Josh Childress, 25 years old- Small Forward, 6'8" 210 lb.

Childress is the Hawks' designated sixth man and do-it-all guy. He is easily one of the most underrated players in the NBA. He can really fill up the box score, ala Andrei Kirilenko.

I hate to use a stale phrase, but he really is the jack of all trades, master of none. Although that usually isn't a good thing, Childress makes it work by doing all the little things that his teammates overlook.

Being restricted free agents and incredibly talented leads to one thing: big money. Teams will offer more than they should to ensure that they land these outstanding prospects. Childress has received much larger offers abroad than the mid-level he would get in the NBA.

Josh Smith, once looking like he was going to accumulate more than his desired $12 million a year, has now run out of options. His two primary bidders having spent their money elsewhere, he is now at the mercy of Atlanta. The problem is they don't have $12 million to spend.

Now that Smith is at the mercy of the Atlanta payroll, they have two options. They can low ball him and give him the five-year, $45 million deal they had offered last year, all while knowing that no one can top it.

Or, as the sources say, they can offer him a six year, $60 million deal that will come as close to his coveted salary as possible.

Without these two, the Hawks lose a lot more than it seems. Although to most, the loss of Childress doesn't look that bad, it is. Josh Childress is as important to the Hawks as any other player on the team. Smith, on the other hand, has superstar potential and adds an always welcomed defensive presence.

With a couple more years of experience together, and the Eastern powers aging, the Hawks could be a force in the near future. The only way to not realize that potential is to lose your key players, which is exactly what Atlanta is in danger of doing.

Spanish Point Rubio to Showcase His Talents in The 2008 Olympics

Mike Turnell — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 11:41:56 -0400

Described as the Michael Jordan of Spain, Ricard Rubio has primed himself to be a top pick in upcoming NBA drafts.

Rubio thrust himself into the spotlight at the age of 15 as the back-up point guard for Joventut Badalona. Although he was only a secondary option, Rubio displayed great poise running one of the top teams in the Spanish League; a basketball organization that is said to be the best outside of the NBA.

In his first year of professional competition, Rubio lead the Euroleague in steals despite only playing 18 minutes per game, averaging 3.1. He also was ranked 17th in assists per game, averaging 3.27.

All of this success at such a young age can come at a price. He has shown signs of an over-inflated ego, expecting superstar calls, and complaining when he doesn't get them.

With all of these things in mind, it certainly hasn't affected his game so far. At the age of 16, he lead the junior Spanish national team to the FIBA Europe U16 championship, easily winning MVP honors. Rubio tore up the opposition with two triple-doubles, and one quadruple-double. He put on an unparalleled performance, recording 51 points, 24 rebounds, 12 assists, and 7 steals all in one game.

Given these numbers, comparisons to NBA guards such as Steve Nash and Pete Maravich are warranted. He doesn't fit the mold exactly of any of these players, however. His unique style expands to every facet of the game, many of which aren't required for a good NBA point guard. His rebounding skills are phenomenal, along with exceptional post-up ability.

Not only are his skills NBA-ready, his body is as well. He is around 6'5" at the age of 17. With his lateral quickness being only marginal, he uses his big hands and excellent reflexes to make up for it. These skills contribute to his great defensive ability, disrupting passes and being around every loose ball.

The offensive end is where he really shines. His passing skills are unbelievable for one his age. He makes the plays that get the audience to stand up. Although not his first option, his scoring is also good. Using his excellent ball skills and basketball IQ, he is crafty at getting to the basket.

Ricky Rubio has the potential to be a franchise changing point guard. He becomes eligible for the NBA draft in 2009, but there are no reports saying that he will declare.

Portland Trail Blazers: Reality Check

Mike Turnell — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 17:57:41 -0400

With an average age of 23.5 years, the Portland Trail Blazers are one of the youngest teams in the NBA. Aside from this, their enormous potential and seemingly unlimited assets make them a hot topic for wild predictions and expectations.

Let's take a look at how other extremely young teams have fared throughout NBA history:

1. 1953-1954 Baltimore Bullets: 16-56

2. 2000-2001 Chicago Bulls: 15-57

3. 2007-2008 Portland Trail Blazers: 41-41

As you can see, being the third youngest team in NBA history didn't stop the Portland Trail Blazers from reaching a .500 record and third place in the Northwest Division. Add in The #1 overall pick in the 2007 NBA draft in Greg Oden, Spanish league MVP Rudy Fernandez, and Vegas Summer League MVP Jerryd Bayless, and you are bound to jump to the conclusion that the Blazers are going to be the next NBA dynasty.

What I'm saying is this: don't put that unfair pressure on them. As I look through countless forums that state Oden as a shoe-in for the Rookie of the Year, Brandon Roy being the next MVP, and the Blazers winning the championship as soon as next season, I begin to worry. I worry that these kids will fold under these expectations that are damn near impossible to live up to.

Please remember that there is a very big possibility that Oden gets re-injured. Remember that this team was beginning to slow down near the end of last season, and that was without having to endure the arduous task of the playoffs.

Finally, please don't convince yourself that a group of 23-year-olds are guaranteed to step onto professional basketball's biggest stage and beat out the world's best.

With all of that in mind, however, I am excited for this team. As a huge Trail Blazer fan, I really think that in a couple of years this team can contend for a title.

But please, as fans, don't be disappointed if the Blazers don't make it out of the first round next year. Don't even be disappointed if they don't make the playoffs at all. As Kevin Pritchard has said, we are in this for the long run.