Bleacher Report - Articles by Brandon Neal

The NBA's Top 10 After 10

Brandon Neal — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:32:40 -0500

After 10 days of the NBA regular season, there are multiple questions: injuries, surprise performances, and disappointments. For those first 10 days, here are the top 10 teams in the league.

1) Boston Celtics (6-0), wins versus CLE, CHA, CHI, NOH, PHI and MIN

The Celtics have started off hot, injury-free, and ready to win the East. Despite a mediocre performance against the Minnesota Timberwolves Wednesday night, Boston has to be on top of everyone's power rankings to start the season off.

Next five: vs. PHX, @ NJN, vs. UTA, vs. ATL, @ IND

2) Denver Nuggets (5-0), wins versus UTA, POR, MEM, IND and NJN

Carmelo Anthony is playing like an MVP candidate, and the Nuggets remain undefeated through five games. Something to note: rookie Ty Lawson is very good, and JR Smith has yet to return from his suspension.

Next five: @ MIA, @ ATL, @ CHI, @ MIL, vs. LAL

3) Los Angeles Lakers (4-1) wins versus LAC, ATL, OKC and HOU

The Lakers have arguably the easiest schedule among West teams for the first half of the season, and the toughest in the second half. Without Pau Gasol, Kobe Bryant has been in attack mode, and the Lakers have won two consecutive road overtime games, on a back-to-back, nonetheless.

Next five: vs. MEM, vs. NOH, vs. PHX, @ DEN, vs. HOU

4) Orlando Magic (4-1) wins versus PHI, NJN, TOR and PHX

After a beating of the Phoenix Suns, who also hold a 4-1 record, the Magic are just too deep, even with an injured Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis' suspension. When healthy, they are easily a top three team in the NBA.

Next five: vs. DET, @ OKC, @ CHA, vs. CLE, vs. NJN

5) Phoenix Suns (4-1) wins versus LAC, GSW, MIN and MIA

The top four scorers for Phoenix are all shooting over 50 percent from the floor, Channing Frye seems to be a legit candidate for the most improved player award, and Steve Nash is playing like an MVP once again. Even more exciting for Suns fans? Amare Stoudemire is back.

Next five: @ BOS, @ WAS, @ PHI, vs. NOH, @ LAL

6) Miami Heat (4-1) wins versus NYK, IND, CHI and WAS

While Jermaine O'Neal isn't the 20 points per game scorer he was in Indiana, he's still giving Miami a 14-point, 58 percent shooting average for the season. Combined with Dwyane Wade's production and Udonis Haslem's selflessness off the bench, Miami looks solid after their first five games.

Next five: vs. DEN, vs. WAS, vs. CLE, vs. NJN, vs. OKC

7) Atlanta Hawks (4-1) wins versus IND, WAS, POR and SAC

With six players averaging double-digits in points, the Hawks offer a balanced offensive attack from both the starting five, as well as the bench (also known as Jamal Crawford). The bad? Atlanta is allowing teams to shoot almost 47 percent, which could catch up to them in due time.

Next five: @ CHA, vs. DEN, @ NYK, @ BOS, vs. NOH

8) Dallas Mavericks (3-2) wins versus LAL, LAC and UTA

The Mavericks are a big question mark at eight, but with wins over the Lakers on the road and a Jazz team that surprised the Spurs Thursday night, a Dallas squad containing Josh Howard should be a force in the Western Conference this season.

Next five: vs. TOR, vs. HOU, @ SAS, @ MIN, @ DET

9) Houston Rockets (3-2) wins versus GSW, POR and UTA

Houston gets the nod over the 41 percent shooting Chicago Bulls, and Trevor Ariza is fitting in nicely with his pick and roll teammates, Aaron Brooks, and Luis Scola. Teams should be aware that Chuck Hayes is no Shane Battier on defense, but both are on this Houston roster.

Next five: vs. OKC, @ DAL, vs. MEM, @ SAC, @ LAL

10) Chicago Bulls (3-2) wins versus SAS, MIL and CLE

Beating Cleveland on the road would be an amazing task last season, but we know the story this year. Nevertheless, Chicago is playing decent without Ben Gordon, and Luol Deng's 17 points and almost ten rebounds per game is the biggest reason for their winning record at this time.

Next five: vs. CHA, vs. DEN, @ TOR, vs. PHI, @ SAC

For more basketball discussion, please visit OTRBasketball.com !

The NBA's Top Ten After Ten

Brandon Neal — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:17:47 -0500

After ten days of the NBA regular season, there are multiple questions, injuries, surprise performances, and disappointments. For those first ten days, here are the top ten teams in the league.

1) Boston Celtics (6-0), wins vs. CLE, CHA, CHI, NOH, PHI and MIN

Next five: vs. PHX, @ NJN, vs. UTA, vs. ATL, @ IND

2) Denver Nuggets (5-0), wins vs. UTA, POR, MEM, IND and NJN

Next five: @ MIA, @ ATL, @ CHI, @ MIL, vs. LAL

3) Los Angeles Lakers (4-1) wins vs. LAC, ATL, OKC and HOU

Next five: vs. MEM, vs. NOH, vs. PHX, @ DEN, vs. HOU

4) Orlando Magic (4-1) wins vs. PHI, NJN, TOR and PHX

After a beating of the Phoenix Suns, who also hold a 4-1 record, the Magic are just too deep, even with an injured Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis’ suspension. When healthy, they are easily a top three team in the NBA.

Next five: vs. DET, @ OKC, @ CHA, vs. CLE, vs. NJN

5) Phoenix Suns (4-1) wins vs. LAC, GSW, MIN and MIA

Next five: @ BOS, @ WAS, @ PHI, vs. NOH, @ LAL

6) Miami Heat (4-1) wins vs. NYK, IND, CHI and WAS

While Jermaine O’Neal isn’t the 20 points per game scorer he was in Indiana, he’s still giving Miami a 14-point, 58 percent shooting average for the season. Combined with Dwyane Wade’s production and Udonis Haslem’s selflessness off the bench, Miami looks solid after their first five games.

Next five: vs. DEN, vs. WAS, vs. CLE, vs. NJN, vs. OKC

7) Atlanta Hawks (4-1) wins vs. IND, WAS, POR and SAC

Next five: @ CHA, vs. DEN, @ NYK, @ BOS, vs. NOH

8) Dallas Mavericks (3-2) wins vs. LAL, LAC and UTA

Next five: vs. TOR, vs. HOU, @ SAS, @ MIN, @ DET

9) Houston Rockets (3-2) wins vs. GSW, POR and UTA

Houston gets the nod over the 41% shooting Chicago Bulls, and Trevor Ariza is fitting in nicely with his pick and roll teammates, Aaron Brooks and Luis Scola. Teams should be aware that Chuck Hayes is no Shane Battier on defense, but both are on this Houston roster.

Next five: vs. OKC, @ DAL, vs. MEM, @ SAC, @ LAL

10) Chicago Bulls (3-2) wins vs. SAS, MIL and CLE

Beating Cleveland on the road would be an amazing task last season, but we know the story this year. Nevertheless, Chicago is playing decent without Ben Gordon, and Luol Deng’s 17 points and almost 10 rebounds per game is the biggest reason for their winning record at this time.

Next five: vs. CHA, vs. DEN, @ TOR, vs. PHI, @ SAC

OTR Basketball Roundtable: As the Season Nears

Brandon Neal — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 00:33:54 -0400

Every NBA off-season seems to last twice as long as it should, especially when June and July are stained with multiple trade rumors, an interesting draft class, and uncertainty concerning a superstar's health.

Fortunately, the NBA fans are smelling pre-season basketball, as rosters are being trimmed or developed, jerseys are changing, and Allen Iverson has cut his list of potential suitors down to four or five teams.

So what does all of this mean to OTR Basketball? It means it's time for a roundtable article, and there's no better way to start the discussion than to mention those off-season transactions that have had us talking, and sometimes scratching our heads, for weeks.

1) What team(s) would you say have had the most successful off-season, and why?

Yama Hazheer: Orlando Magic. They added Vince Carter, who is a better player than Hedo Turkoglu. He has also never had a chance to work with a big man of Dwight Howard's caliber. It should help both of them greatly. Not only that, but they added a young forward in Brandon Bass, who will help rebound, and they re-signed Marcin Gortat.

The Lakers did well also by adding probably the best defender in the league in Ron Artest, and re-signing Odom. The Spurs added Richard Jefferson without losing any key members of the team.

Dannie Haynes: This offseason, it appears that the teams at the top, such as Boston, Cleveland, Lakers, Orlando, and San Antonio, found a great deal of success, and out of that group I would have to say Orlando was the most successful, because they made the most dramatic overhaul. The other teams simply added one or two pieces to get better, where Orlando made three or four significant changes.

Overall though, I feel that of all the teams in the NBA, the team that improved the most from the end of last year to the beginning of this year would have to be the Toronto Raptors. The differences are astounding when looking at the team before and after.

There are only three players, four if you count the soon to be traded Marcus Banks, still on the team, and with the addition of Turkoglu, the Raptors have a fairly strong front five. The bench is greatly improved, which should allow the starters to rest, knowing they can hold the fort.

Sean Bafaro: The San Antonio Spurs. Heading into the off-season, the Spurs looked like they would finally relinquish their title as an elite Western Conference team.

They were eliminated in the first round by the Dallas Mavericks in five games and although they were suffering from injuries, they simply did not look like the Spurs of old. They relied way too much on the terrific trio of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili to carry them.

However, after making the trade for Richard Jefferson and signing Antonio McDyess, the Spurs have added two more players to the roster that are capable of stepping up when called upon.

Jefferson is a 20-PPG caliber scorer who, when motivated, can play very solid defense as well. McDyess is a wily veteran who can still give you 10/10 a night while playing strong positional defense.

They also managed to get DeJuan Blair in the second round of the draft, who just may become the steal of the draft. He can provide you with toughness and a tenacious rebounder immediately, and learning under Tim Duncan will only help his game.

They also added veteran center Theo Ratliff to give them a shot blocking, defensive presence off of the bench. Adding these players, along with getting Duncan and Ginobili back healthy, have put the San Antonio Spurs right back among the Western Conference elite and have them in the hunt for another NBA Championship.

Stephen Dyell: The San Antonio Spurs. They added Richard Jefferson to a lineup that I believe was mainly affected by Manu Ginobili`s injury. Adding Antonio McDyess, Theo Ratliff and DeJuan Blair gives the Spurs a flexibity of big men that will be tough to match around the league as they also have Duncan and Bonner as starters.

The Los Angeles Lakers, New Orleans Hornets, Boston Celtics, and Cleveland Cavaliers are a very, very close second though, as all teams took a step up.

Brandon Neal: I have to say the Detroit Pistons improved the most. They rid themselves of Allen Iverson and added a few solid players, including Ben Gordon, Charlie Villanueva, Chris Wilcox, and Ben Wallace.

In addition to their player acquisitions, they also replaced their head coach. John Kuester was an assistant for the Cleveland Cavaliers this past season, and ironically, was an assistant when the Pistons defeated the Lakers in the 2004 NBA Finals.

Spending time under Mike Brown and Larry Brown, and also being a good defensive player at North Carolina and his short tenure in the NBA, Kuester will most certainly preach defense to a team that, just a few years back, found their greatest success riding on their defensive dominance.

2) What 2009 rookie point guard would be most likely to lead a team to a championship sometime in his career?

Hazheer: Tyreke Evans. He really could become the best player out of this draft class. He has the whole package, except for shooting, but that will come to him with some hard work. He was praised for his defense at times during the college season, also. He has very high potential and is a guy you can build around.

Haynes: I feel that Jonny Flynn has all the tools to be an all-star in this league. While his height will surely be a handicap that will affect him throughout his career, his athleticism, intelligence, and heart will surely help him overcome his shortcomings.

The problem is he is on a team, the Minnesota Timberwolves, that are in no position to compete for a championship anytime soon. They have a stud in Al Jefferson, who should make his first all-star team this upcoming season, as well as sophomore Kevin Love, who appears to be team U.S.A. material, but the overall team is in tough shape.

Is Minnesota the team Flynn leads to a championship? I don’t think so. Is he the best point guard to give it a try? Absolutely.

Bafaro: Ricky Rubio. Heading into the draft, Rubio was the most talked about point guard and widely considered to be the clear cut best point guard prospect.

However, since the whole contract buyout with DKV Joventut, people seem to have done a complete 180 on Rubio.

The fact of the matter is that Ricky Rubio is still the same player that he was heading into the draft, where the majority of people were in love with his game.

He has amazing court vision, is a great passer, has excellent anticipation on offense and defense, and has a brilliant understanding of the game. Rubio and Jefferson very well may become one of the most potent big man/point guard duos in the entire NBA when both of them are at their best.

Rubio’s ceiling is incredibly high and when he reaches his potential, he is going to be one of the best point guards in the NBA and has the best chance of leading a team to the NBA Finals out of the point guards selected in the 2009 NBA Draft.

He is an elite point guard prospect with superstar potential, and I don't think that you can say that about any other point guards from this year's draft class.

If the Timberwolves, or whomever he plays for, can build a solid team around him, I have no doubts in my mind that he can lead that team to the promised land.

Dyell: None, but if I had to choose who'd be the first one to win a ring, I would have to go with Eric Maynor, as he is the missing piece the Jazz were looking for. If he pans out and everything clicks, the Jazz could do some serious damage in the next couple years.

Neal: I'm not sure if any of the point guards would be able to lead a team to a title, but picking one, I have to select Ricky Rubio, even though Brandon Jennings feels like a poor man's Allen Iverson.

If Rubio develops a shot, and that's not very difficult to do if you work hard enough, he could be a Steve Nash clone, plus defense, and that's something for future point guards to worry about.

While I don't see Rubio winning it all with the Wolves, I wouldn't be surprised if he decided to bolt to a team such as the Lakers or Knicks after his contract is up, mainly for the city and not the team. Same can be said for Jennings.

However, it's a reach for me to say that Jennings will be that point guard holding up the O'Brien trophy as a leader and Finals MVP, and while it's difficult for me to see Rubio doing that as well, it also seems to be the most likely scenario for this particular case.

3) Where do you believe LeBron James and Dwyane Wade will end up playing in November 2010? Explain your answers.

Hazheer: I see LeBron James playing for the Nets. They will move to Brooklyn, they have a nice young core, and he is very close friends with part-owner Jay-Z.

It wouldn't surprise me if Dwyane Wade left for the Bulls. Wade bought a townhouse in Chicago, it's his hometown, and the Bulls need a two-guard with the loss of Ben Gordon.

Haynes: LeBron and Wade are both expected to be the best players available in 2010. Both will have very different destinations, also.

I believe LeBron will stay in Cleveland. It would be the best thing for him and for the NBA. The story of LeBron leading a smaller-market team in the Cavaliers will help other smaller teams believe they can re-create the same story. He has changed the city of Cleveland and hopes to change their overall championship drought.

Wade, on the other hand, looks to be on the way out. He has already said he will not play for New York or New Jersey, and he wants to play for a winner. That leaves few choices, and considering Miami did nothing this offseason to help him win there, it looks as though he will try elsewhere.

I think a great place for him would be Utah, and if the Jazz could use Carlos Boozer and trade him for Wade, it could do wonders for the Jazz, and give the Heat a legitimate post scorer to build around.

Bafaro: I believe that both James and Wade will be back with their current teams after the 2010 free agent frenzy. Cleveland is a championship-caliber team and has a legitimate shot at winning an NBA championship for this upcoming season.

The Cavs are also able to give LeBron an extra year on his contract and higher percentage increases each year, which ultimately results in more money. I just don’t see a player like James leaving a contending team, nor do I think that he will leave the extra money on the table to go elsewhere.

Dwyane Wade is not in as good of a situation, but the same idea applies with him as far as I am concerned. I just don't see him being able to walk away from the Heat and leaving all of the extra money on the table.

However, one thing that I can potentially see happening is James and Wade re-signing with their teams to receive all of the extra benefits, but if they are not happy with the direction that their teams are headed, they could possibly ask to be traded halfway through the season. This is one thing to keep in mind.

Dyell: LeBron and Wade will not have to rent a moving truck, in my opinion, as both will stay put. Money rules everything, and they are both receiving tons from advertisements and can also earn the most from their current teams.

If they do, Wade to Chicago and LeBron to New…Brooklyn?

Neal: I may be one of the few that believes the duo will make their decisions based on not only money, but also their hometown.

It's difficult for me to imagine LeBron James in anything but a Cavaliers jersey, and that's where he should stay. There's a good chance the Cavaliers will get to the NBA Finals in 2010, and it would more than likely seal the deal for him if they came close to winning a title, yet failed by the slimmest of margins.

In the back of LeBron's mind, he wants to win a title for the state of Ohio more than anything else, especially after the city of Cleveland has crowned him their sports savior since 2003.

Unfortunately for the Heat, Dwyane Wade could be on his way out the door and headed to the Central Division. Chicago wasn't going to pay Ben Gordon his money, and why wouldn't Wade jump on the opportunity to share the ball with Derrick Rose and a healthy Luol Deng?

With him hinting that he's going to explore free agency more than he's going to win anything for the Heat, one can't help but wonder if the Heat's inability to bring in Lamar Odom or Carlos Boozer toppled their chances of retaining Wade after 2010.

4) If your favorite team were to have your dream match-up in the 2010 NBA Finals with anyone else (opposing conference), who would it be and why?

Hazheer: The Golden State Warriors vs. the Orlando Magic, my favorite team against the team that my favorite player Vince Carter plays for. I would love to see this match-up.

Haynes: In this scenario, the Toronto Raptors would be in the Finals. The best competitive match-up against a playoff-caliber team, in my mind, would be against the Portland Trail Blazers, pitting their starting five of Andre Miller, Brandon Roy, Travis Outlaw, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Greg Oden against the Raptors starting five of Jose Calderon, DeMar DeRozan, Hedo Turkoglu, Chris Bosh, and Andrea Bargnani.

This match-up would have two subplots to it, one being Turkoglu’s decision to go to Toronto instead of Portland, as well as the battle of the top two picks in the 2006 NBA Draft, Bargnani and Aldridge, with Roy making a strong case for being the best player in that draft.

The battles of Bargnani against Aldridge would be fairly even, as both players are strong offensive threats, and Aldridge having a slight advantage on defense.

Turkoglu would be the x-factor of the series, and there really isn’t anyone on the Blazers who could guard him.

The Blazers, however, have Brandon Roy, a top 10 player in the league. These factors, combined with the play of the starting point guards in Calderon and Miller, would make this a very interesting series.

Bafaro: The Toronto Raptors vs. the Oklahoma City Thunder.

While this match-up may not appeal to very many other fans, I think that it would be an awesome series and not only because it is my two favorite teams playing each other for the grandest prize in the NBA, but because I believe that it would be a very entertaining series.

As a long time Raptors fan, there have not been many more exciting games that the Raptors have been a part of than the ones against the Sonics/Thunder franchise. It seems that whenever these teams meet up, it is always a fast-paced, close, hard-fought game, and these two teams always bring out the best of each other.

It would also be a fantastic opportunity to showcase some of the NBA’s finer young talent, with the likes of Chris Bosh, Kevin Durant, Andrea Bargnani, Russell Westbrook, Jeff Green, DeMar DeRozan and James Harden all showcasing their abilities.

Although this match-up may not appeal to the majority of NBA fans, this would definitely be my dream NBA Finals match-up.

Dyell: New Jersey Nets vs. Dallas Mavericks.

Having Jason Kidd playing against Devin Harris would be amazing to watch in the Finals, and just the facial expressions of Mark Cuban would put a smile on every Nets fan's face.

Neal: If it were up to me, I would find a way to place the Los Angeles Lakers and the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals.

The series would feature the two best players in the NBA in Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, but the true story will be Kobe and Shaquille O'Neal's Finals reunion, except for the fact that they would be on opposing teams.

It also makes for a good soap opera, with Andrew Bynum playing Shaq in the paint, sometimes crowned Shaq's second-rate replacement, and it would be interesting to watch the greatest coach of all-time, Phil Jackson, outsmart the 2009 Coach of the Year, Mike Brown (or Brown's intelligent assistant coaches, of course).

5) Predict the two 2010 NBA Finals teams, the winner, and your reasoning behind it.

Hazheer: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers, Lakers in six games.

It is hard to tell just yet, so this is just my early prediction, but the Celtics will be hungry. Who else would they rather want to face than the Lakers? Boston would be on a vengeance during the playoffs and could go on a big run.

I think, ultimately, they will lose to Los Angeles because of the defense the Lakers could play. Bryant could shut down Allen, while Artest could lock up Pierce. If Gasol and Bynum could play Garnett like they played Dwight Howard, the Lakers will win in six.

Haynes: In June, 2010, the NBA Finals will be between the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers. Boston has the tools to contend again, as long as Wallace agrees to come off the bench, and everyone stays healthy.

Orlando seems to have done too much tinkering to repeat as Eastern Conference champions, and Cleveland just seems to be unlucky.

Los Angeles is the same basic team as last year, and their only roster move was an upgrade at small forward, with the acquisition of Ron Artest.

Kobe is also the most competitive player in the NBA and will surely want to prove that he is the premier player in the league. San Antonio is a close second in the Western Conference, but age and injuries will eventually catch up to them.

As for the winner, I see the Lakers repeating. Their front five is possibly the best in the league, and their overall lineup is eight deep, with players coming off the bench that would start on any other team in the NBA.

Bafaro: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Boston Celtics.

The most storied rivalry in NBA history will be renewed in the month of June as these two juggernaut franchises will meet in the NBA Finals for the second time in the last three years.

The Lakers and Celtics have both made moves this offseason that look to better their chances of winning it all. The Lakers signed Ron Artest to give them another lock-down perimeter defender and a capable offensive player.

They also re-signed Lamar Odom and will have a healthy Andrew Bynum back. The Celtics brought in volatile Rasheed Wallace and also signed swingman Marquis Daniels.

The Celtics are also going to look internally for improvement, as youngsters Rajon Rondo and Kendrick Perkins will make an attempt to step their games up. The biggest thing of all, however, is that Kevin Garnett will be back in the lineup.

These two teams look poised to make another run to the Finals, but I think that the Los Angeles Lakers will ultimately end up as the repeat NBA champions. The Lakers have the best player in the game today in Kobe Bryant, and he has a fantastic supporting cast around him.

They did lose to the Celtics two seasons ago, but that loss showed them what needs to be done in order to win on the big stage.

The Lakers' superior talent will prove to be the difference maker in the 2010 NBA Finals, and they will walk away with their second NBA championship in as many years.

Dyell: Boston Celtics vs. the Los Angeles Lakers.

Celtics were without Kevin Garnett this postseason, which allowed the Lakers to shine. Both teams added stars in Wallace and Artest, so one only can assume both became better.

As for a winner, the series could go either way, but Lakers should take it in seven.

Neal: The Lakers simply replaced Trevor Ariza with Ron Artest, and will cross their finger in hopes that Andrew Bynum will finally stay healthy, while the Celtics can bank on Kevin Garnett's return, as well as Rasheed Wallace's effectiveness on both ends of the court.

The popular pick will be the Lakers and Celtics, and it may also be the smartest one, as I can't say for sure if the LeBron and Shaq experiment will work out in Cleveland without the Phoenix training staff on hand, and with O'Neal clogging the very lane LeBron James makes a living in.

The Lakers will more than likely have home court advantage because I see them winning 65 or more games this upcoming season, and Boston will win at least two in the NBA Finals, where the Lakers will finish them off at the STAPLES Center in six games.

The 2009-10 season begins Tuesday, Oct. 27, with the Boston Celtics playing the Cleveland Cavaliers at 7:30 PM ET, followed by Blake Griffin and the Los Angeles Clippers against the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers at 10:30 PM ET.

Be sure to visit OTRBasketball.com for all of your NBA and NCAA basketball discussion, and above all, enjoy the 2009-10 NBA season!

NBA Finals Showdown: Lakers Vs. Magic

Brandon Neal — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 19:53:28 -0400

Since 1990, the Los Angeles Lakers have won seven conference titles, including their current victory over the Denver Nuggets. Three of the six completed seasons brought an NBA championship to their franchise, all three coming in consecutive seasons.

The Orlando Magic were nothing more than an expansion team in 1990. This would mark only their second appearance in the NBA Finals, their first coming in 1995, when Shaquille O'Neal and Anfernee Hardaway led a 57-win Magic team to the promised land, only to fall to Hakeem Olajuwon's Houston Rockets in four games.

Things haven't changed too much since then. Teams dominated by a superstar, an all-star teammate and solid role players are likely to play up until, or into, the month of June, defense still gets the job done, and playoff upsets are always waiting in the wings.

Enter the 2009 Lakers and Magic.

Nearly one year removed from their upsetting loss to the Boston Celtics in the 2008 NBA Finals, Kobe Bryant and coach Phil Jackson are preparing for what could be their most important games of their careers.

Bryant, who has yet to win a title without O'Neal, and Jackson, chasing his record-setting 10th NBA championship as a head coach, have a lot to prove this time around, while the franchise is looking for redemption after losing their last two NBA Finals matchups, against the Celtics in 2008 and the Detroit Pistons in 2004.

Offensively, these Lakers are extremely dangerous from all spots on the court. They have three-point sharpshooters, slashing guards and forwards, post players, solid role and bench players, and both youth and experience.

Combined with quite possibly the most skillful basketball superstar since Michael Jordan, an excellent power forward and center combo in Pau Gasol, and arguably the best coach in NBA history, it's difficult to predict a loss for such a well-defined team.

Defensively, you have to look at the Lakers at how well they perform aside from the complacency they continue to show every once in a while. They have two exceptional perimeter defenders in Bryant and Trevor Ariza, and a good defensive guard by the name of Shannon Brown.

Outside of those three, the Lakers have Andrew Bynum, who struggles to play a significant amount of minutes due to foul trouble, and Pau Gasol, who has shown his strength rebounding the ball and blocking shots, but seems to have trouble playing physical defense against the stronger, larger forwards and centers.

This season, the Lakers were ranked sixth in opponent field goal percentage (44.7 percent), third in opponent three-point percentage (34.5 percent), first in rebounds per game (43.92), 10th in blocks per game (5.12), and second in steals per game (8.75).

The Magic may not be running a two-man system like they were with O'Neal and Hardaway in 1995, but their combination of Dwight Howard and their shooters seem to give even the best defensive team fits, as we all "witnessed" versus the Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals.

One odd thing to note about Orlando is that they look to Howard not as a passing big man, but strictly a scorer and a decoy. Throughout the season, it was evident that Jameer Nelson, who may not be available for the Magic in the NBA Finals, and Hedo Turkoglu were able to run the offense literally through their shooters, penetrating and dishing to the open man, something most of their players can do.

Fortunately for the Magic, if their shooters were cold, Howard had no problem taking the game over as he did in his final game against the Cavaliers, scoring 40 points and forcing the ball through the hoop.

The best thing about Howard, though, would have to be his defense. The Boston Celtics were praised for bringing in a defensive anchor, Kevin Garnett, to help keep slashing guards and small forwards out of the paint, while keeping a thumb on his own assignment and preaching defense to the team during timeouts, in the locker room, and even on the court.

Dwight Howard has embraced this role for the Magic, and it has been one of the biggest factors in bringing them to contention this season.

In comparison to the Lakers, the Magic were third in the NBA's regular season in opponent field goal percentage (43.3 percentage), second in opponent three-point percentage (34.2 percentage), third in rebounds per game (43.25), sixth in blocks per game (5.35), and 22nd in steals per game (6.95).

A Lakers victory would have to mean that Bryant and Ariza do a superb job defending the perimeter, Bynum and Gasol assist the slashing guards and forwards in putting Dwight Howard in foul trouble in the early stages of the second and fourth quarters, and Lamar Odom plays at least two quarters contesting shots from everywhere on the court.

If Jameer Nelson plays, Derek Fisher and the other point guards will be asked to watch penetrations and to be physical with the injured Nelson, wearing him down in his limited minutes on the court, and forcing Rafer Alston to beat them from the perimeter.

In addition to their production on defense, their offense has to stay consistent, with three or more contributors: Bryant, Gasol, and a third and possibly fourth option. Gasol's effectiveness in the low post turned Denver into a confused and restless basketball team, not knowing who to double team between the offensive post threat in Gasol, and one of the most dominant offensive players in NBA history in Bryant.

Odom and Ariza could be the two asked to provide instant offense while Gasol and Bryant take their usual three or four minute breaks. Ariza shot a stellar 61 percent from the field against the Utah Jazz in the first round, and 58 percent against the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals, while Odom came up big against the Nuggets in the final two games of the series, averaging 11.5 points and nine rebounds in six games against Denver, while shooting an impressive 55.6 percent from the floor.

While nobody on the Magic will be able to shut down Bryant, the idea may be to disable the rest of the team, especially Gasol. One way to do this is by using Howard in the post.

It wouldn't be a surprise to see Rashard Lewis attacking the rim, or possibly one of the other role players, such as Mickael Pietrus, who managed to outscore the Cleveland bench all by himself in the Eastern Conference Finals, or rookie guard Courtney Lee. If Howard is struggling, it will be up to Orlando's shooters to stomp their way out of any mud they find themselves in.

Quite frankly, controlling the tempo is a must for the Magic, as they are able to hit threes out of any given scenario on the court, whether it's rushing down the floor and pulling up for one early in the shot clock, or holding onto the ball and waiting for a slight miscalculation by the Lakers' defense before firing a triple from the corner.

When it's all said and done, the series may be decided by Bryant and Howard. Kobe's trust in his teammates, and Dwight's inability to hit short jumpers and free throws, could easily factor into the ultimate test for both NBA juggernauts, Bryant looking to earn his fourth championship ring, while Howard aiming to bring home the first in Magic franchise history.

Game One of the NBA Finals starts Thursday, June 4th at 9:00 PM EST, on ABC.

To discuss every game in the series, visit OTRBasketball.com!

Phil Jackson: More Questions, Less Answers

Brandon Neal — Fri, 15 May 2009 18:39:54 -0400

In the past, I've dismissed Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson from any blame in regards to the Lakers struggling in the regular season and playoffs. I did the same in 2002, against the Adelman-coached Sacramento Kings. In fact, Jackson was the last to blame during the Lakers' loss to the Phoenix Suns, after leading the series 3-1 in the 2006 playoffs.

Times are changing, indeed.

After the embarrassing 21-3 start to Game 6 Thursday night, and the beating Los Angeles received in Houston two games ago, it's difficult for me to not point a finger at Phil Jackson.

Despite the foul trouble Andrew Bynum seems to find himself in so quickly these days, he was essentially "fouled out" after going 0-3 from the field and picking up his third foul. Instead, Lamar Odom, who is playing through a recent back injury, played the fourth quarter for the Lakers, with Pau Gasol playing the center position, and both were non-factors on the defensive end against Houston forwards Luis Scola and Carl Landry.

This wasn't the icing on the cake, though. Since Houston Rockets center Yao Ming fell to injury, their point guard, Aaron Brooks, has been the catalyst in the two Houston victories. His speed not only takes the veteran Derek Fisher completely out of the game on defense, but also takes advantage of Jordan Farmar's lack of lateral quickness, not to mention that Houston's pick and roll is much more effective without a clogged lane, and Brooks can get to the rim three times faster than Gasol can on the defensive switch.

In addition to our glaring weaknesses on defense, Jackson's decision to rest Kobe Bryant for over five minutes to start the fourth quarter was absolutely ridiculous. After Bryant's poor start (2-8 shooting in the first quarter), the superstar guard shot over 50 percent from the floor to help bring the Lakers to within two after converting on two free throws during his 13-point third quarter. Where rest is much-needed for our superstars, Gasol played five more minutes than Bryant this game, and ironically, the five extra minutes would have been a bonus for the Lakers, if Bryant had played them to start the fourth.

Our offensive struggles need to be directed at our bench and role players. Fisher, Bynum, Trevor Ariza, Luke Walton, Sasha Vujacic and Shannon Brown combined for a horrible 4-27 from the floor, 18% shooting. While Odom seems to have a legitimate excuse for attempting just five shots Thursday night, his 14 rebounds would say otherwise. Sadly, most of the shots missed by these players have been uncontested, and of the 27 shots attempted, 13 of these were three-pointers, with only one of those going in.

It's true that Jackson isn't the one shooting jumpers and bricking them, but you have to wonder why some of these players continue to be inserted into the lineups after playing so badly. Vujacic has shot 29% against the Rockets in the six playoff games so far, and 21% against the Jazz in five games the previous series. Walton is shooting a terrible 30% from the floor. Derek Fisher has duplicated Vujacic's mark, at 29% this series. This is all while Josh Powell played a very good Game 5, yet never left the bench on Thursday, and Lamar Odom hitting half of his shots and attempting just 12 shots since Game 3, when he threw up 11 attempts, making seven, his best game of the series to date.

Statistics show that the Lakers are in the better half of the league in defense, although what you view during the games won't necessarily agree with this. The Lakers are near the top of the pack in points allowed per 100 possessions, steals, rebounds, opponents' field goal percentage, opponents' three-point percentage, and forced turnovers. The problem is, their inconsistency makes it impossible to take a lead and maintain it. It's no secret that the Lakers are possibly the worst team in the NBA in holding a double-digit lead, and I'm inclined to believe that Phil Jackson's rotations are part of why this is a strong characteristic of this team that they cannot shake loose.

Jackson's delayed timeouts seem to be an issue as well. After Houston lost Ming, they transformed into a small ball team. Their ability to push the ball up the floor, force players to chase after them, and setting the pace for most of the game not only puts pressure on the Lakers' defense, but waters down their offensive production as well. More work on defense means less effort offensively, as it relates to exhaustion and, ultimately, disappointment. The strategy to call a timeout before the bleeding begins would be what most coaches resort to. Jackson's timeouts minutes after the Lakers are on life support worries me. If letting the players "play through" their troubles is part of a championship concept, it would be nice if this was put into play in Los Angeles, not on the road, with a Rockets team feeding freely off of their crowd and a staggering amount of momentum from being the true underdogs against a team that was arguably the best in the NBA this season.

Unfortunately for the Lakers, Houston Rockets coach Rick Adelman can make adjustments. He is coaching a team that has shown that they can beat us without Yao, Tracy McGrady, and with poor shooting nights by Ron Artest. In other words, two of his starters (Brooks and Scola) are playing like all-stars, even though their play before this series has never deserved all-star merit.

The triangle offense encourages spacing, excellent passing and movement. It's Phil Jackson's job to push this on everyone in the lineup, including Kobe and Gasol. The shots may not be falling, but the defensive efforts seem to stop and go like a traffic light, and these players' roles in the offense are so uncertain, it's usually a guessing game who will show up on any given night for the Lakers.

It's time for Jackson to adjust this Sunday. Define roles, preach defensive consistency, come out with better rotations, and coach the triangle offense the way he coached it in his days with the Chicago Bulls, and not hope to play a two-man game with Kobe and Gasol. While everyone else deserves part of the blame for not hitting shots, running the offense, and playing defense, it's Jackson's responsibility to rid this team of their arrogance and complacency, coaching the triangle offense, and reviewing tape in hopes to shed some light on their defensive lapses and mistakes throughout the series. Otherwise, inexperience and youth will continue to be Phil's crutch as a head coach in the NBA.

Visit OTRBasketball.com and TheLakersNation.com for more basketball discussion!

OTRBasketball: The 08-09 NBA Awards

Brandon Neal — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 02:58:21 -0400

The NBA Playoffs couldn't have come any later for almost half of the teams in the league, and OTRBasketball has been anticipating its arrival for weeks.

Three staff members (Yama Hazheer and Erick Blasco, writers, and Brandon Neal, site owner) have put their minds together to come up with their own version of the NBA's 2008-09 awards.

Despite a few hours of indecision on my part for the Coach of the Year award, here is our list.

Coach of the Year

Erick Blasco: Rick Adelman, Houston Rockets

Despite having no roster stability over the first half of the season, and no Tracy McGrady over the second half, the Rockets have been the second-best team in the West for much of the second half of the season.

Their defense has been professional-grade since T-Mac expunged himself from the team, Ron Artest has played nice, and the Rockets rarely beat themselves.

All this with a second-year runt directing the offense. Adelman deserves major props for guiding Houston through unstable waters.

Yama Hazheer: Rick Adelman, Houston Rockets

This season, Adelman developed Von Wafer, was able to control Ron Artest, and kept the Houston Rockets at the top of the Western Conference without Tracy McGrady. He has made this club one of the better defensive teams in the league.

Brandon Neal: Mike Brown, Cleveland Cavaliers

Over the last few years, fans have taken shots at Mike Brown for playing "LeBron James basketball" and having the inability to make coaching decisions for anyone else on the floor.

The fact of the matter is, Brown's stint under Popovich may have paid off, because his coaching is nothing short of outstanding this season.

Cleveland has hit an all-time high in wins, reached the best record in the NBA for the first time in franchise history, and has a stellar defensive squad, and it's fairly difficult to put that all on LeBron's shoulders, although a significant chunk is due to his improved play on defense.

Sixth Man of the Year

Erick Blasco: Jason Terry, Dallas Mavericks

Strictly a conscienceless scorer and defensive gambler, Terry’s ability to sizzle quickly has given Dallas’ offense the edge it’s needed. No other bench player has provided the same impact Terry has.

Yama Hazheer: Jason Terry, Dallas Mavericks

Jason Terry would be a starter on 90 percent of NBA teams, but the Dallas Mavericks already have enough offense in their starting lineup, so they put Terry on the bench.

When "Jet" comes into the game, he averages 20 points on 46 percent field goal shooting. He's also one of the better three-point shooters in the game.

When it comes down to the final minutes of the game, Dirk Nowitzki and Terry will finish out games for Dallas.

Brandon Neal: Jason Terry, Dallas Mavericks

Terry is averaging nearly 20 points per game on 46 percent shooting. His ability to hit jumpers from anywhere on the floor not only spreads the opposing defense out to allow more offensive options, but also gives him room to operate out of any one-on-one situations.

With Josh Howard's inconsistent play this season, Terry has been there to pick up the slack.

Most Improved Player

Erick Blasco: LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers

The strides he’s made defensively in the last season and a half have taken his game to another level. Now James dominates games on each end of the court.

He’s better at positioning himself without the ball, and though it’s nowhere close to being perfected, James actually can beat opponents from the perimeter, if only at Quicken Loans Arena.

Offense, defense, rebounding, the ability to score and defend his own man, the ability to distribute and help off the ball—all aspects of the game are starting to fall under the King’s jurisdiction.

Yama Hazheer: Devin Harris, New Jersey Nets

Mark Cuban must be kicking himself right now, considering the results of the Jason Kidd/Devin Harris swap. While Kidd is in Dallas getting older, declining, and wanting more money, Harris is in New Jersey, leading the team alongside Vince Carter.

He has become the primary offensive option for the Nets, though his defense is shaky despite playing the passing lanes well. Harris has been a good leader, scorer, passer, and clutch this season.

Danny Granger is close to winning this award, too. It'll likely be a coin toss between Harris and Granger for most improved.

Brandon Neal: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder

Harris and Granger's stats are nearly identical in every major category except for points per game, comparing this season's to last.

However, Durant's field goal percentage has increased by 4.6 percent, his points per game by five, his three point percentage drastically, rebounds are up by two, assists are up, and even his steals are higher. You can't do any better than that in terms of improvement.

Defensive Player of the Year

Erick Blasco: Shane Battier, Houston Rockets

There’s no better defensive player in the league. Battier’s quickness, strength, timing, footwork, discipline, and ability to execute an individual defensive gameplan have neutralized opposing wings for years. He’s always in perfect defensive position, and prevents players from getting to the basket.

The number of free throw attempts in a game by players Battier is guarding are minuscule with stars like LeBron James, Brandon Roy, and Kobe Bryant being forced well below their season averages for free throws attempted.

Battier is the main reason why the Rockets are second in the Western Conference in opposing field goal percentage.

Yama Hazheer: Dwight Howard, Orlando Magic

Dwight Howard has been a monster on the defensive end this season. He averaged 14 rebounds, three blocks, and one steal through the campaign, and he has shut down most opposing centers and functioned as the defensive anchor for the Orlando Magic.

Brandon Neal: Dwight Howard, Orlando Magic

Howard leads the league in blocks and rebounds, is third among all centers in steals, and those abilities alone scream to opposing guards that they should stay out of the paint when playing the Magic.

Kobe Bryant dominates Shane Battier just as Yao Ming has Howard, but the difference is that Battier leads his opponents into help defense, or poor shooting zones.

Dwight will block your shot no matter the position you play, or where you shoot from, and he doesn't need help doing it.

Rookie of the Year

Erick Blasco: Derrick Rose, Chicago Bulls

Rose will someday be mentioned in the same breath as Chris Paul and Deron Williams. His athleticism has been off the charts with a near-perfect combination of speed, strength, hops, and explosion.

Plus, he has a mastery of how to run a pro-level offense. His defense is too passive, but that will improve with age.

He’s already tough enough at drawing charges and has the strength to handle most power-guards. Vinny Del Negro is the coach and Ben Gordon is the high-profile scorer, but Rose is the dictator behind Chicago’s playoff-bound Bulls.

Yama Hazheer: Derrick Rose, Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls had no chance of making the playoffs, according to many experts at the beginning of the season, but Derrick Rose has proved them wrong. He stole the starting point guard spot from Kirk Hinrich and has made the Bulls relevant again.

He has become a great leader for a team that had chemistry issues last season, and he's teamed up well with new coach Vinny Del Negro. He could go down as one of the better point guards to play the game if he continues to get better.

Brandon Neal: Derrick Rose, Chicago Bulls

If you watched yesterday's playoff game against the Celtics, you know why it doesn't get any more obvious.

Most Valuable Player

Erick Blasco: LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers

This isn’t necessarily a declaration that James is the best player in the league, but he’s the reason why his team will have the best record in the NBA.

His all-around playmaking ability is unsurpassed, and his raw strength and ferocity leave him as the king of the rim. What’s more, his defense, a liability only 15 months ago, has turned into an asset.

The Miami Heat aren’t good enough for Dwyane Wade to win any tiebreakers for my MVP vote, and Kobe’s often allowed his teammates to carry the bulk of the load in Los Angeles’ prime time games.

For Cleveland, despite an ordinary collection of teammates, LeBron’s been able to elevate the Cavs to the best team in the league with the best record in the league—an MVP-worthy achievement.

Yama Hazheer: Dwyane Wade, Miami Heat

Dwyane's situation is similar to that of Kobe in the '05-'06 season, and that year, I would have given the award to Bryant instead of Steve Nash.

The association gives this usually to the best player on a team with a top-three record, but as for me, I would give this award to the player who did the most for his team with barely any help.

Take Wade off the Miami Heat, and they are the worst team in the league. Take LeBron James or Kobe off their respective teams, and the Cavs and Lakers would either be high lottery teams or postseason bottom-feeders.

Without the Flash last season, the Heat had the league's worst record. This year, with him, they are top-five in their conference. It's clear to me that Dwyane Wade is the most valuable player to his team.

Brandon Neal: Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers

I realize that there's a criteria for the award, and it involves being the best player on the best team. My criteria is simply being the best overall player in the NBA.

The truth is, Kobe Bryant should win the award, either way.

Using both definitions, the Lakers are 2-0 against the Cavaliers, one win shy of their 66 Cleveland totaled this season while playing all of the battered Eastern Conference teams three or four times each.

To me, that makes Bryant the best player on the best team. Even without that, Bryant is the superior defensive player, and if you were to list all of their weaknesses in their overall game, you would find more for LeBron.

If the assist and rebounding totals bother you, try looking up Michael Jordan's stats in the 90's, and provide me your argument as to why LeBron is already better than Jordan.

I have no problem with LeBron winning it, and I knew he would a month ago. My view on the award is far different from that of the MVP voters, though.

Article discussion here: http://www.otrbasketball.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=59342

OTRBasketball Top 50: 31-40

Brandon Neal — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 12:45:29 -0400

Thirteen staff members from OTRBasketball.com have come together to bring you their very own NBA Top 50 list.

Each member was asked to put the 50 best current NBA players in order, and the results would be calculated based on average ranking.

All ties were broken by determining which player obtained the highest individual ranking.

Last week, players 41-50 were named, and you can find that by clicking here.

Starting off this week, we'll give you No. 31-40:

40. Hedo Turkoglu, Orlando Magic, F (profile)

Averages through April 5: 16.7 PPG on 40.9 percent FG, 5.3 RPG, 4.9 APG in 36.6 minutes
Average Ranking: 42.08

Much like Lamar Odom in regards to his versatility, Hedo can play up to four positions on the floor, including point guard, which he proved immediately after Jameer Nelson's injury. Unfortunately, Turkoglu's shooting has taken a hit this season after a solid performance last year, which led to his Most Improved Player award.

With unlimited range in an offense that allows him to launch from three at any time, Hedo has been clutch from beyond the arc in many situations throughout his career.

39. LaMarcus Aldridge, Portland Trail Blazers, F (profile)

Averages through April 5th: 18.5 PPG on 48.6% FG, 7.5 RPG, 1.9 APG in 37.1 minutes
Average Ranking: 42.08

Aldridge's consistent play has boosted the Portland Trail Blazers into the playoffs this year (minus a complete breakdown in their final six games). He may not be Portland's most valuable player, but his mobility is a plus on both sides of the court, and LaMarcus' scoring ability takes quite a load off of Brandon Roy's shoulders.

Aldridge still needs to hit the gym and work more on his low-post game, but his presence is already being felt in just three NBA seasons.

38. David Lee, New York Knicks, F (profile)

Averages through April 5: 16.1 PPG on 55.2 percent FG, 11.8 RPG, 2.1 APG in 35.3 minutes
Average Ranking: 41.08

Posting career highs in scoring, rebounds, assists, steals and minutes, it's difficult to believe that Lee was the 30th pick in the 2005 NBA Draft. Lee is the current leader in double-doubles among all players, including Dwight Howard.

David's leaping ability is exceptional, and it may be one of the bigger reasons for his high rebounding numbers, as Lee is tied for second with Troy Murphy in rebounds per game.

37. Rashard Lewis, Orlando Magic, F (profile)

Averages through April 5: 17.9 PPG on 44.0 percent FG, 5.7 RPG, 2.6 APG in 36.3 minutes
Average Ranking: 38.92

Lewis, like Hedo, excels in Orlando's system. However, Rashard is in an even better position: Orlando's defense creates shots for him, while other teams find it frustrating to defend a team like the Magic back down the court.

Additionally, a low-post threat such as Howard gives Lewis more room to work, to create his own shot against his opponent or to hit a three on a catch-and-shoot. Shard's rebounding doesn't leave much to be desired in relation to his size, but his defense has been improving since signing with Orlando.

36. Jason Kidd, Dallas Mavericks, G (profile)

Averages through April 5: 9.2 PPG on 42.3 percent FG, 6.1 RPG, 8.6 APG in 35.6 minutes
Average Ranking: 37.08

The triple-double machine is still creating for teammates, and Kidd doesn't look like he'll stop anytime soon. For a point guard, Kidd's rebounding is off the charts, and his defensive skill level is still among the top of a list of guards when he's not focused completely on offense.

The Mavericks aren't the same 55-60 win team since getting Kidd, but the sudden decline of Josh Howard could be the biggest reason for that. Kidd's only problem is his shooting percentage, and he only takes around eight shots per game.

35. Vince Carter, New Jersey Nets, G (profile)

Averages through April 5: 20.8 PPG on 43.6 FG, 5.1 RPG, 4.6 APG in 36.8 minutes
Average Ranking: 36.77

Following former Hawks superstar Dominique Wilkins as the NBA's human highlight reel, Vince Carter is still providing ESPN with 360 layups and spectacular dunks, but with declining numbers. Vince hasn't averaged 20 points per game since 2003. His overall shooting percentage has dropped as well.

Despite the troubles, Vince is shooting better from downtown and has been clutch for the Nets this season. If defense was a part of Vince's game, he would possibly make our next list of ten.

34. Michael Redd, Milwaukee Bucks, G (profile)

Averages through April 5: 21.2 PPG on 45.5 percent FG, 3.2 RPG, 2.7 APG in 36.5 minutes
Average Ranking: 36.46

The Milwaukee Bucks are pushing to make the playoffs this season, and even though Redd has been plagued with an injury during the most important time of the year, it shouldn't hurt his value one bit. Redd is still a threat from beyond the arc, as well as a player that can give you 30 on any given night.

Michael doesn't seem like the player he was in 2004, when he earned his spot on the Eastern Conference All-Star team, and his defense and passing ability will always be criticized, but Redd's offensive production will always be appreciated.

33. Caron Butler, Washington Wizards, F (profile)

Averages through April 5: 20.5 PPG on 44.8 percent FG, 6.2 RPG, 4.4 APG in 38.6 minutes
Average Ranking: 36.15

Despite not making his third all-star game appearance, Caron Butler has been playing like an all-star forward all season for Washington. You wouldn't be able to tell by the Wizards' record, but Washington has been banged up since November, and Butler has turned into a consistent offensive player without Gilbert Arenas in the lineup.

Butler is a solid rebounder for his height, has an impressive mid-range game, and can drive the lane very well, something he has improved on over the course of seven NBA seasons.

32. Maurice Williams, Cleveland Cavaliers, G (profile)

Averages through April 5: 17.9 PPG on 46.6 percent FG, 3.4 RPG, 4.0 APG in 35.1 minutes
Average Ranking: 35.77

Maurice Williams' assists numbers have dropped to his lowest since becoming a starter in Milwaukee, but his scoring is at a career-high, at nearly 18 points per game. Williams is an excellent shooter, hitting over 91 percent of his free throws and 43 percent from three.

Many fans questioned his defensive abilities as a member of the Bucks, but much of his so-called improvements on that end of the court may be due to Cleveland's extremely-gifted help defense. Nevertheless, with Williams snagging an all-star jersey this season, Cleveland is having their best year in franchise history.

31. David West, New Orleans Hornets, F (profile)

Averages through April 5: 20.7 PPG on 46.7 percent FG, 8.4 RPG, 2.3 APG in 39.0 minutes
Average Ranking: 35.38

Playing in his second All-Star game this season, David West has been Chris Paul's Robin in a rugged five months of ups and downs for New Orleans. It's certain that the Hornets won't match their 56-win season from last year, but West didn't have a problem playing nearly as good.

David West isn't the best athlete on the roster, but he has an advanced set of skills on offense, and he's close to automatic if left open from mid-range.

Look for our next ten players, 21-30, by the end of the week!

This full article, with images, is located here: http://www.otrbasketball.com/general-nba/otrbasketball-top-50-31-40

OTRBasketball Top 50: The Bottom 10

Brandon Neal — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:05:00 -0400

Thirteen staff members from OTRBasketball.com have come together to bring you their very own NBA Top 50 list.

Each member was asked to put the 50 best current NBA players in order, and the results would be calculated based on average ranking.

All ties were broken by determining which player obtained the highest individual ranking.

To kick things off, we''ve decided to bring you players 41-50.

50. Rajon Rondo, Boston Celtics, G (profile)

Averages through April 2: 11.9 PPG on 50.4 percent FG, 5.2 RPG, 8.5 APG in 33.5 minutes

Average Ranking: 47.62

Rajon may not possess the star qualities that Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen do, but he is considered the glue of the Boston Celtics.

Considered one of the better defensive point guards in the NBA, Rondo's ability to slash to the rim and feed his talented teammates only solidifies his value on the defending world champion Boston Celtics.

Even more impressive is his shooting percentage.

49. Stephen Jackson, Golden State Warriors, F/G (profile)

Averages through April 2: 20.7 PPG on 41.4% FG, 5.1 RPG, 6.5 APG in 39.6 minutes

Average Ranking: 47.15

A second-round pick in 1997, Jackson had trouble adjusting to professional basketball. These days, he has transformed into the Warriors' franchise player and a hard-nosed defender, not to mention one that wants the ball when the game is on the line.

If his shooting percentages were higher, and the Warriors were a better team, it's obvious that his ranking could be higher as well.

48. Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Cleveland Cavaliers, C (profile)

Averages through April 2: 13.4 PPG on 47.7% FG, 7.3 RPG, 1.0 APG in 27.1 minutes

Average Ranking: 46.69

Years ago, Zydrunas was uncertain of his NBA future, needing pins in his ankle and feeling useless for the Cleveland franchise that drafted him in 1996. However, his ankle is healed, and Ilgauskas is part of one of the best defensive teams in the NBA.

While "Big Z" isn't known for his defense, his offensive game extends out to his mid-range jumper, and his basketball IQ is greatly valued by coach Mike Brown and the Cavaliers.

47. Andrew Bynum, Los Angeles Lakers, C (profile)

Averages through April 2nd: 14.0 PPG on 55.8% FG, 8.2 RPG, 1.5 APG in 29.1 minutes

Average Ranking: 46.69

After averaging a monster 26.2 PPG and 13.8 RPG in his last five games, including 65.3 percent from the field, Bynum's knee troubles resurfaced yet again. While the Lakers continue to roll, Bynum's defensive presence is missed.

Already considered the future of the Lakers once Kobe Bryant hangs it up, Bynum may be the missing piece to a successful championship run this season.

46. Rudy Gay, Memphis Grizzlies, F (profile)

Averages through April 2: 18.7 PPG on 44.5% FG, 5.6 RPG, 1.7 APG in 37.1 minutes

Average Ranking: 46.62
The Grizzlies are struggling this season, but it's difficult to point fingers at Rudy Gay. After a few seasons of adjusting to the league, Rudy's offensive game is improving, while he is working much harder to boost his defensive skills as well.

It's true that Gay is an average defensive player, despite what the critics say, but his athleticism and length, combined with hard work, will benefit him most heading the better part of his career.

45. OJ Mayo, Memphis Grizzlies, G (profile)

Averages through April 2: 18.3 PPG on 43.4% FG, 3.8 RPG, 3.2 APG in 37.8 minutes

Average Ranking: 45.54

Despite putting up the lesser numbers, Mayo is widely considered the future franchise player for the Memphis Grizzlies, over star teammate Rudy Gay.

A combo guard out of USC, Mayo is a top candidate for this year's Rookie of the Year award, producing well for the Grizzlies on offense, while playing good defense and displaying the athleticism and playmaking that handed him the top three pick in the 2008 NBA Draft.

44. Shawn Marion, Toronto Raptors, F (profile)

Averages through April 2: 12.5 PPG on 48.0% FG, 8.5 RPG, 2.0 APG in 35.6 minutes

Average Ranking: 44.77

His shot may be awkward, but the rest of his game isn't. After spending almost a decade with the Phoenix Suns, Marion's numbers have taken a tumble, mainly because he belongs in a particular system of basketball.

Nevertheless, Shawn is still an excellent defender, an underrated rebounder, and his ability to get up and down the court all game long is a sure positive for any run-and-gun team looking into the free agent market after this season.

43. Derrick Rose, Chicago Bulls, G (profile)

Averages through April 2: 16.6 PPG on 47.0% FG, 3.9 RPG, 6.2 APG in 36.8 minutes

Average Ranking: 44.77

If you were to bet on any one player from this year's draft class to become a superstar, you should put your money on Derrick Rose. He may not be the leading scorer among rookies, but he produces in almost every aspect of the game.

His athleticism is off the charts, as well as his unselfish play and the quickness he possesses to snap a defender's ankles, as you have seen multiple times this season. His jumper and defense is still a work in progress, but this may be the guard Chicago has been looking for since Michael Jordan's departure in 1998.

42. Antawn Jamison, Washington Wizards, F (profile)

Averages through April 2: 22.4 PPG on 46.6% FG, 9.0 RPG, 1.9 APG in 38.5 minutes

Average Ranking: 42.62

The Washington Wizards are a bad team. Don't hang that on Jamison, though.

Antawn's offensive game is quite unique, in fact. His versatility may not rival that of a Kevin Garnett, but Jamison can hit shots from nearly anywhere on the floor, and he crashes the boards very well.

The downside to his game is indeed his defense and selfishness, but the brother-in-law of New Jersey Nets forward Vince Carter has been a true leader in the Wizards' offense since 2004.

41. Andris Biedrins, Golden State Warriors, C (profile)

Averages through April 2: 12.4 PPG on 57.5% FG, 11.5 RPG, 2.0 APG in 30.2 minutes

Average Ranking: 42.46

Andris Biedrins is like your local police officer—you know he's around, but you're not always looking for him. He doesn't have the best offensive skillset, but Biedrins is a decent shot-blocker who beats quite a few slashing guards to the rim. He also posts a quiet 11.5 rebounds per game, all in just 30 minutes of play.

Where Stephen Jackson and Monta Ellis run the Warriors' offense, Biedrins may be the glue holding the team together.

Be sure to keep an eye out for players 31-40 sometime this weekend.

Discuss this topic here: http://www.otrbasketball.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=58438

Tyson Chandler Trade Allows Thunder To Upgrade Defense

Brandon Neal — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 16:58:33 -0500

In a swap that many would consider unfair or downright ridiculous, the Oklahoma City Thunder have acquired center Tyson Chandler from the New Orleans Hornets. Chandler was traded for center Chris Wilcox, veteran forward Joe Smith, and the rights to rookie forward DeVon Hardin.

Hornets GM Jeff Bower stated that the decision was made primarily because the team wasn't running the floor well enough and found themselves having trouble rebounding the ball to set up transition baskets. However, there's also the idea that the expiring contracts of both Smith and Wilcox will assist the franchise in dipping below the salary cap, which is expected to decrease slightly due to recent economic troubles.

After finishing 8-8 in their last 16 games before All-Star Weekend, a Kevin Durant-led Thunder squad has found themselves 25th in the league in points allowed, 25th in opponents' field goal percentage, and sitting next to the Clippers and Kings for the Western Conference's worst record.

However, despite those particular defensive setbacks, the Thunder are fifth in the NBA in rebounding, which is believed to be Chandler's specialty.

The positive effect from the Chandler trade may not have much of an impact just yet for the Thunder. Chandler, who is coming off of an ankle injury that has seemingly glued his shoes to the court, is struggling both offensively and defensively, and his numbers are showing just that.

After averaging a career-high 11.8 points per game last season, as well as an impressive 11.8 rebounds, Chandler has posted just 8.8 points per game and 8.3 rebounds per game, with his field goal percentage dropping a significant six percent.

Thunder fans can be assured that a healthy Chandler will boost team morale and encourage a stronger defensive effort, something this franchise has long desired for since losing former NBA guard Gary Payton six years ago.

New Orleans, who some feel are a disappointment after their surprising second place finish in last year's Western Conference playoff race, gain two pieces that may be able to help them immediately.

Wilcox and Smith won't impact New Orleans like Tyson Chandler did last season—connecting with guard Chris Paul for more than 100 alley-oops —but the strength and rebounding by Wilcox and the veteran leadership and mid-range game of Smith can only help them clinch a top four seed in the West.

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No Wizardry in Washington

Brandon Neal — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 04:01:30 -0500

For the last three seasons, the Washington Wizards have quietly declined. For the most part, they haven't been able to pick themselves back up when it mattered most.

Due to numerous injuries to guard Gilbert Arenas, guard/forward Caron Butler, and forward Antawn Jamison—a potentially lethal trio—combined with injuries to solid role players, the Wizards were eventually minimized to a duo of Butler and Jamison, playing alongside what us fans call scrubs—the leftovers gathered from other teams.

It didn't seem long ago that a fair amount of Wizards fans were declaring that Butler was an MVP candidate for his ability to shoulder the hefty load left after Arenas fell to injury, tearing his way into the playoffs for what eventually resulted in a third consecutive loss against a more-powerful Cleveland Cavaliers team.

In fact, just last season, these Washington Wizards defeated the Boston Celtics in three of the four games they played—the only team in the NBA to win the regular season series against the eventual champions.

We may not all be Wizards fans, but we can't help but feel sorry for the franchise. Should we not?

After re-signing the injured Arenas to a contract that will end up paying him roughly $22 million in the 2013-2014 season, the franchise could have made the decision to replicate what the Orlando Magic did with guard Tracy McGrady in 2004. In that case, they traded him to the Houston Rockets for guards Steve Francis and Cuttino Mobley, avoiding the possibility of feeling obligated to pay McGrady for years of mediocrity.

Francis and Mobley became non-factors for the Magic on the court, but a little over four years later, Orlando's fans are celebrating many more wins than losses, and a possible NBA Finals berth if all goes well.

On June 30 the Wizards organization decided to hand over a four-year, $50 million deal to Jamison. Some believe that this was another way to convince Arenas to stay in Washington.

Similar to Jamison stating that he would love to end his career with the Wizards, possibly hoping that he, Arenas, and Butler could get together for a run at a 50-win season, and a higher seed in the playoffs—to avoid Cleveland, of course.

However, a run like that would be amazing for a Washington franchise that has not won more than 45 games since 1979, one year after winning their first and only NBA championship. With that in mind, it was also 1979 when the formerly-named Washington Bullets finished first in their division.

If that isn't bad enough, nine of their last 10 playoff visits have resulted in first-round losses, with 15 seasons in between where Washington failed to get into the playoffs, which actually group into seven and eight consecutively.

While many were cracking jokes at the Atlanta Hawks for not making the playoffs for eight consecutive years, the Washington Wizards may be one of the worst current franchises in NBA history. Atlanta had three 50-win seasons in the '90s, stayed fairly healthy, and found their way out of the first round four times since 1993.

With a record of 9-33, Arenas missing another season, a new coach, and absolutely nowhere else to go but up, it's probably time to rebuild. Ship out the big contracts, keep the young talent, and bring in fresh, healthy faces, ready to put out effort on both offense and defense.

The Washington fans deserve more than a repeat of what happened to the basketball fans in New York and, sadly enough, this is where the road begins in that destination to nowhere.

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OTR Basketball's Midseason NBA Roundtable

Brandon Neal — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 03:19:32 -0500

Note: The following was organized and written by BleacherReport and OTRBasketball.com's Erick Blasco.

With the season almost halfway over, now is as good a time as any to reflect over the current state of the NBA. Most teams and players have established their identities—for better or for worse—but some teams spark debate as to where exactly they fit into the NBA’s hierarchy.

With that as an introduction, I’ve assembled a collection of some of the brightest, most energetic basketball minds OTR has to offer to reflect on the past, weigh the present, and predict the future of the upcoming NBA season.

1) The Boston Celtics have lost seven of nine, including to their top competitors (the Cavs and Lakers), to solid, but crippled opponents (the Blazers without Brandon Roy, and the Rockets without Shane Battier and Tracy McGrady) and to the league’s bottom feeders (the Bobcats and Warriors). What’s gone wrong with Boston?

His Greatness, member:

I believe the loss to LA on Christmas shattered their mettle. Their confidence was shot, Rondo began playing scared, and it began trickling down to the rest of the team, interpolating a myriad of problems.

The bench's production took a hit, the defense was out of sync, their shots weren't falling, and offensively they became over-reliant on the Big Three, deviating from the offensive unison that made them so effective.

They endured a bad stretch that every team goes through, and I have reason to believe that they may have snapped out of it after the back-to-back wins against Toronto and New Jersey.

Legacy, writer:

Without P.J. Brown and James Posey, the Boston Celtics' bench is now thin. It was deep last season with experience of Brown and Posey, without them there really isn't anyone on the bench that can out and give them that boost off of the bench other than Leon Powe and an inconsistent Eddie House. Their intensity is gone.

Real Deal, owner:

Rajon Rondo. Rondo is slumping, and it may be due to teams locking in on him, or just his game taking a nose-dive midway through the season.

Without Rondo, Boston has no defense in the backcourt (Ray Allen doesn't play defense), and nobody is kicking the ball out to open shooters.

Rajon isn't your traditional point guard, but he gets his teammates open shots, and when your teammates are All-Stars, they will more than likely hit them. In the end, Boston may go as Rondo does.

Erick, writer:

First of all, it’s easy to overreact to Boston’s slump and assume the sky is falling. It’s not. Boston will get through this rough patch and is arguably still the best team in the East.

However, a number of concerning factors have all combined to knock Boston off their perch.

For starters, Boston’s incredible win streak to start the year may have been the worst thing to happen to them. They became arrogant, and were stuck in a number of close games against opponents who played harder than them.

Since Paul Pierce was able to bail them out of close losses with a number of huge last-minute shots, the Celtics were never punished for their arrogance.

After losing to the Lakers though, the Celtics were exposed in their minds as mortals. Just because they were champions didn’t mean they were invincible. That has led to doubting, and less confident play.

The other two reasons are more tactical. The Lakers started the trend of playing Rajon Rondo with a longer defender (like the Knicks did with Jared Jeffries) and sagging into the lane.

This has made entry passing with Rondo difficult, and has allowed opponents to have a free double-teamer either to double the post, or to shadow penetration. Since Rondo still has trouble shooting, Boston’s offense has stagnated.

The third reason has been every pundit’s concern when discussing the Celtics. They simply don’t have a deep bench. They don’t have an effective ball-handler backing up Rajon Rondo.

They don’t have length in their frontcourt (Patrick O’Bryant simply isn’t an NBA player). They don’t have an elite defensive stopper off the bench, forcing Paul Pierce to be both the team’s primary playmaker and defender, a task which has limited his effectiveness.

As the Celtics win more games, they should regain their confidence. Doc Rivers will also find a way to tweak his offense and adapt to longer defenders on Rondo. But if they don’t improve their bench, the Celtics are a worse team than last year’s version.

2) The defending Western Conference champion Los Angeles Lakers have cruised to the top spot in the West, while the Cleveland Cavaliers have been exceptional for the better part of two months. Which of those teams is the best in the league right now, or is it someone else?

His Greatness:

Still think it's Boston until proved otherwise. The Lakers and Cavs may have been better team in January, but Boston has the better track record, the Big Three, and Brian Scalabrine.

Legacy:

I think both teams are great, the top two in the league. But in the end, I still think the Lakers are a better team. They have more depth, and when Jordan Farmar comes back their recent struggles will come to an end.

Point guard position isn't looking great for them, but they have Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol, who are both players that can help each other when one is having a bad game.

LeBron doesn't really have the sidekick right now that Kobe does. But it might change depending on what I see from these two teams on Martin Luther King Jr. game day.

Real Deal:

The Cavs are the best team in the NBA, even if the Lakers defeat them on Monday. What Cleveland has is the top defense in the league (the only team holding their opponents to under 90 a game), arguably the best player, and a very complicated offense to defend against, scoring 100 points per game, above the league average.

Erick:

Right now, it’s Cleveland. LeBron is playing at a level he’s never played before. His defense began to improve late last season, and after a lazy start to the year defensively, he’s turned into a true stopper.

His hands are more active, his feet are more active, and his awareness is better. Mo Williams hasn’t been a defensive disaster, and the rest of the team has always been exceptional defensively.

On the other end, Mike Brown has come a long way as a head coach. Cleveland’s offense has a lot more movement, and is no longer LeBron screen/roll left, LeBron screen/roll right.

With their toughness, commitment to defense, more complex offense combining with LeBron’s brilliance, the Cavs are playing like last year’s Celtics.

The Lakers aren’t far off, and their speed, quickness, length, and athleticism disrupt opponents and mercilessly capitalize on mistakes. I still wonder if they have the interior muscle, or the maturity, to be truly great.

Andrew Bynum was supposed to help, but he’s more concerned with his own touches than rebounding and playing defense. If he comes around, then the Lakers will start playing at an even higher level, but if he doesn’t, then the Lakers will have problems in the postseason.

3) Conversely, which team is the very worst in the NBA?

His Greatness:

The Thunder. A total of eight wins speaks for itself.

Legacy:

The Oklahoma City Thunder are the worst team in the league. They will be a good team in the future, but as of right now, they are pretty bad. They have their nights where the upset their opponents, but in the end, they only really have Durant and Green for now.

Real Deal:

The Washington Wizards are the worst, by a slim margin, over the Thunder. Washington's defensive rating is 28th in the league (points allowed per 100 possessions), while the Thunder are sitting at 19th.

The two offenses are in the bottom five, but you have to wonder how a team with Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison can manage to win just eight of their 39 games, tied with a very young Thunder team, who are now 5-4 in their last nine games (the Wizards are 2-8 in their last ten).

Erick:

Talent-wise, the Timberwolves. Al Jefferson only plays offense, the team has no athleticism, Corey Brewer is fundamentally poor, Kevin Love can’t jump, defend, or finish, Rashard McCants is too impatient, and the roster is comprised of too many guys who are strictly role players.

That said, the Timberwolves at least play hard and smart (and have played much better basketball under Kevin McHale).

The Thunder are pretty bad, but that’s expected with so much roster filler, so many youngsters still learning to play professionally, and so many veterans playing the same position. At least they have an exciting nucleus for the future.

Since the Clippers don’t play hard, don’t play smart, have given up on the season, and have no future, they’re the very worst team in the NBA.

4) Which team has been the most disappointing team?

His Greatness:

Philadelphia. A pick by many to be amongst the upper ranks in the East after the biggest pickup in the offseason, they've fallen short of expectations. Although in their defense, a lot of those expectations were awfully lofty and unfair to them. They've started to get it together as of late, but they never should've been in this hole to begin with.

Legacy:

Phoenix Suns. Shaq is the only player on the team right now who is playing well, but he sits out for some games just because he isn't the same young Shaq he once was. Nash and Amare are both struggling without the run-'n'-gun tempo of Mike D'Antoni.

Real Deal:

The Toronto Raptors are the most disappointing team in the league. In 42 games, they have won only 16 of them. For a team that contains the best power forward in the East in Chris Bosh, a point guard who was making an All-Star push last season, and another big (Jermaine) that was said to be revitalized in Toronto, getting to 35 wins looks more difficult than what everyone thought would be the disaster called the Knicks, who are actually right on the Raptors' tail.

Erick:

Though I miscalculated the degree, I expected the Wizards to fall off this year. I was also never on the Raptors bandwagon, and the Sixers have shown signs of turning things around.

That’s why the Clippers are the most disappointing team. Certainly a team stockpiled with as much talent as they have couldn’t own the second worst record in their conference, could they?

Oh wait, Baron Davis has always strictly been for numero uno, Ricky Davis has never been more anything other than a brainless waste, Chris Kaman’s always been robotic where good defenders can completely take him out of his game, Marcus Camby is one of the most overrated defenders of our generation, and Al Thornton and Eric Gordon are too young to understand how to play team-oriented offense and defense.

No, the Clippers’ struggles come as no surprise. Washington’s even worse than I thought they’d be, so they’re my pick for Most Disappointing Team.

5) The Spurs, Rockets, Mavs, and Hornets all boast winning percentages near or above 60 percent. Which of them is the best in the Southwest, either now or come playoff time?

His Greatness:

San Antonio's still got it. As always, they're slept on going into the playoffs when people realize they're legit after dominating the preliminary rounds. Duncan isn't letting this team go away.

Legacy:

Spurs. They have the experience, a point guard who can take over games and make everyone around him better. A perimeter threat who can either start or come off of the bench. The best power forward of all time, and possibly even in the league right now. And they have one of the best coaches in the league. All they need is the fourth player to step up, and Roger Mason Jr. is doing a great job with his clutch shooting. He and Matt Bonner spread out the floor nicely.

Real Deal:

If they stay healthy, the Spurs will remain the best in their division, and the second best in the Western Conference. The Hornets are struggling on defense, Houston can't stay healthy, and Dallas is out seeking trades to improve only because they realize they need it (rumors of Howard being traded, right after Diop goes).

Erick:

Dallas is too fragile to be reliable come playoff time, and the Rockets still haven’t integrated their superstars into their offense (to say nothing of Tracy McGrady’s lack of passion, which has finally been taken to task by Houston’s media and fan base).

New Orleans has the talent, but David West and Chris Paul don’t play with passion every night, and their offense is way too reliant on Paul.

San Antonio still has a dominant post threat, potent shooting, and unlike last year, Roger Mason and a healthy Manu Ginobili. Mason is the defender the Spurs wanted Ime Udoka to be, and he’s the creative scorer Michael Finley can’t be anymore. And a healthy Ginobili gives the Spurs a dynamic scorer who can get his shots off everywhere on the court.

Plus, San Antonio is one of the best-coached teams in the league, and their players are extremely clutch, both traits invaluable come playoff-time.

6) How good are the Orlando Magic?

His Greatness:

Good, arguably elite. I still think they're fool's gold in that they haven't proved anything and that offensively, they're overly dependent on their stroke from outside. There are teams in the playoffs that will clamp down on that defensively and force Dwight to consistently beat them in the pivot, and I just don't think he's ready to carry his team in that situation yet.

Legacy:

Overrated by fans, underrated by the media. They will be a threat in the playoffs, but being a three-point shooting team may hurt them if they aren't hitting their shots. They are a top three team in the East for sure, and top five in the league as a whole.

Real Deal:

Orlando is the third best team in the NBA, despite two wins over the Lakers. Cleveland remains on top as of today. Orlando relies too heavily on the three, and if it isn't falling for them, they are in trouble.

In five of their last seven wins (streak), they have had more free throw attempts than three-point attempts. In all but two losses the entire season, they have had more three-point attempts (and one of those losses was nearly equal from beyond the arc and at the charity stripe).

They are good, but come playoff time, the threes aren't going to be there for seven consecutive games against the same team. Ask Rashard Lewis, who played for a Ray Allen-led Sonics team who did the same thing.

Erick:

Very, very close, but still below Boston and Cleveland.

Dwight Howard loses focus occasionally (especially on defense), and he still isn’t a reliable enough playmaker in the pivot. Plus Orlando has little frontcourt depth and is very reliant on three-point shooting.

Once Howard matures as a defender (and he’s made considerable strides since last year), then Orlando will really be magical. Until then, they’ll only beat great teams when their outside shots are falling, which according to their percentages would be about three times out of every seven games.

7) Mike D’Antoni, Michael Curry, Scott Skiles, Vinny Del Negro, Eric Spolestra, Larry Brown, Rick Carlisle, and Terry Porter. Which of those coaches has done the best job with their new teams?

His Greatness:

Gotta go with Skiles. The Bucks have made a marked improvement (seven wins away from their win total last season) and are currently sitting pretty at eighth in the East. You can throw it up to personnel changes all you want, but it takes a coach to manage that and let the players buy into the system he's selling. Skiles has these guys playing their asses off on every night, and while they don't look to be too big a threat when April comes around, they're playing better than I expected out of them.

Legacy:

Mike D'Antoni. Who would have expected the Knicks to not be at the bottom of the league this season? They are playing good basketball considering all the off court troubles they have with Stephon Marbury. Wilson Chandler, Nate Robinson, and David Lee are three players that this team needs to keep.

Real Deal:

Many will pick the best team's coach, but I'm going with Larry Brown. They may not be in the playoffs, and may be on pace to matching last year's record, but Brown is a defensive coach, and Charlotte's defense has changed, dramatically.

From last year's 20th ranking, to 9th this season, the Bobcats have been toying with different lineups and losing Jason Richardson to the Suns, yet are still finding a way to stay just outside of the playoff hunt, four wins less than the 8th seed out East.

Erick:

Eric Spolestra and it’s not even close. Spolestra inherited Dwyane Wade, a pair of rookies in Michael Beasley and Mario Chalmers, and a mishmash of veterans, most of them either sharing a position or projected to play out of position. Out of that, he’s inspired his team to play some of the best defense in the NBA.

Spolestra’s gotten the most out of basketball journeymen like Jamaal Magloire (who many thought was washed up) and Joel Anthony (who never played an NBA game until last year). He’s banished selfless, defenseless veterans in Mark Blount and Marcus Banks from the rotation. He’s developed Chalmers into a dependable point guard.

Most importantly is Spolestra’s relationship with his players. Wade has bought into his message completely, and despite being benched because of poor defense, blue chip draft pick Michael Beasley has never complained, and practices hard to improve his game.

While 19-17 isn’t a fantastic number, keep in mind that the Heat had the worst record in the NBA last season.

8) What’s been the difference in Miami’s turnaround from last year's disaster?

His Greatness:

Dwyane Wade, Dwyane Wade, Dwyane Wade, and Dwyane Wade. That's the difference. There really is no other way to reword it. You can copy and paste Dwyane Wade until my entry is lengthy enough to qualify as a paragraph, just so it would seem more writer-ly.

Legacy:

Dwyane Wade. He is a top three player in the league and can take over games like only a few other people in the NBA. He is making players around him better, and the additions of Michael Beasley and Mario Chalmers are turning the team around.

Health in general is the key. They won't be anything special in the playoffs though, if they make it unless Beasley or Marion step up.

Real Deal:

Dwyane Wade and Mario Chalmers are the two factors in their turnaround. A healthy Wade makes his teammates better (ask Cook) and has improved his defense, while Chalmers' defense and decision-making (less than two turnovers in 31 minutes) takes the load off Wade's shoulders.

Erick:

The two biggest reasons are clearly Dwyane Wade’s return to good health, and Eric Spolestra’s coaching work.

I mentioned Spolestra above, and when Wade’s healthy, he’s one of the true elite players in the game. He’s always in rhythm when shooting, he’s a great playmaker, and he has a terrific ability to change directions at the last minute when attacking the basket.

Plus he’s fearless, strong, and relentless, making him a nightmare for opposing paint defenders. And he’s fantastic defensively, especially at rotation down and blocking bigger players’ shots at the rim.

Since Wade values defense, and Spolestra emphasizes defense, everyone else has fallen into place.

9) Assuming Cleveland, Boston, Orlando, Detroit, Atlanta, and Miami are good enough to make the playoffs, which other two Eastern Conference teams fill out the postseason bracket?

His Greatness:

I am a homer, so I will say Philadelphia because they are on the come up, and look to finally be back on track with Elton's timely return. And New Jersey, because, well, it would only make sense since Carter is finally playing with heart, right?

Legacy:

New Jersey Nets. Brook Lopez is playing amazing these past few games, Yi was looking good until the injury, Devin Harris is playing like a star, and Vince Carter is playing like the type of Vince we have never seen before. He is showing great playmaking skills, effort on defense, and leadership.

Philadelphia 76ers. Too much talent on this team to not make the playoffs. Elton Brand will have to step up though when he comes back from injury and Andre Iguodala will have to play like he has been doing since Brand has been injured.

Real Deal:

The Sixers and Bulls should get in, barring any injuries, while the Nets miss out by a single loss. Philly is starting to gel, and with everyone healthy in Chicago, the fight between them and New Jersey should go down to the last couple of games.

For our enjoyment, they play each other April 4, in Chicago, while the Nets move on to face four-consecutive East bad boys: Sixers, Celtics, Pistons and Magic. The Bulls end their season playing eight of their last 11 at home.

Erick:

New Jersey and Indiana (yes, Indiana) will have a say, but I have a feeling Philadelphia and Milwaukee make the playoffs.

The Sixers are starting to play better basketball, especially on the offensive end. They’re putting the ball in Andre Miller’s hands more and allowing him to find the open areas for teammates.

Plus, Andre Iguodala looks much more comfortable since interim coach Tony DiLeo has challenged him to shoot from the perimeter when he’s open. The last two seasons, the Sixers have been a second half team, so with Elton Brand returning, it isn’t a stretch to expect the Sixers to play their best ball over the final three months.

Meanwhile, the Bucks are relentlessly energetic. Michael Redd is playing the most complete ball of his life, and looks much more explosive with the ball, instead of solely relying on his jumper.

Richard Jefferson’s been a slight help, Luke Ridnour has rebounded from a awful 2007-2008 to save his career, and the entire team hustles, runs, fights, and contests everything defensively.

They have more offense and scrappiness than Chicago or New Jersey.

10) List your top three Most Improved Player candidates and why you chose them.

His Greatness:

This starts and ends with Devin Harris, who has made the quantum leap from average NBA starter to All-Star scorer. His offensive awareness has improved, his jump shot has become more consistent, and best of all, he's become one of the NBA's best at getting to the line, one of the indicators of a legit NBA scorer.

It's a big drop-off after him, then there's Andris Biedrins, who is finally and deservedly getting more burn with his improved touch around the basket and is arguably the only highlight on a dysfunctional team.

Danny Granger, whose numbers might be inflated because of how fast-paced the offense is, has still transformed into an awesome player and legitimate scorer (fourth in the league). That's in elite territory.

Runner-ups include John Salmons, who was actually one of my picks as MIP prior to the season because the "Most Improved Player" award isn't actually quite that literal, and he's posting a statline that I had to do a triple take on.

And Paul Millsap, who's been a serviceable replacement for Carlos Boozer in Utah, and could potentially make him expendable.

Legacy:

1. Devin Harris - Number one for sure. Isn't letting Mark Cuban get any sleep.
2. Danny Granger - Improved in every aspect of his game this season.
3. Marco Belinelli - Has played great defense and great in general since Don Nelson has given him minutes.

Real Deal:

Assuming they continue their play, Von Wafer wins this, but I'm not quite sure where he'll fit in once McGrady starts playing again, so I'm putting him on the backburner. Otherwise, you have to consider John Salmons and Rodney Stuckey.

Salmons is averaging career highs in most categories, shooting almost 47% and netting nearly 20 a game, while Stuckey came out and proved that he could drop nearly 40, out of nowhere, and is averaging 14/5 on almost 47% shooting, after shooting poorly last season. Out of the three, Salmons gets my vote.

Erick:

Devin Harris: His jumper used to be a liability and now its very reliable. Harris has also been a tougher finisher at the rim, is much more aggressive on defense, and has perfected a right-to-left step-back crossover that makes defenders look silly. He used to be a nice player, now Devin Harris is an All-Star-caliber player.

LeBron James: His jumper is slightly better, his defense is infinitely better, he’s better at moving without the ball, he’s better at posting up, he’s better in every facet of his game. It’s scary how much LeBron has improved—and even scarier as to what his ceiling is.

Danny Granger: He’s always been a great jump shooter, but he’s smarter moving without the ball to set up his shots. And he’s better at creating and defending than in years past. He gives Indiana hope that they can make the playoffs.

A heartfelt thanks to the writers and the owner of OTRBasketball, who decided to participate in this roundtable.

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NBA's Top Five Misunderstandings

Brandon Neal — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 08:25:05 -0500

NBA message boards have become popular with fans over the last few years.

Instead of sitting around and listening to overpaid analysts give their opinions about the list of games each night, a message board provides forums for the fans to express their thoughts and feelings. After all, who doesn't want to read your biased predictions for your favorite team?

However, every now and then, a fan gets caught up in what those professional analysts lean on for their discussions. It becomes the norm that particular scenarios, stories or aspects of the game are twisted into misunderstandings that seem to appear in many arguments over time.

Below are five of today's misunderstandings that you'll find while tuning into these analysts, or just browsing a message board.

Honorable Mention) Kobe Bryant is Selfish.

This is an honorable mention because, over the last couple of seasons, the talk has died down quite a bit.

Contrary to popular belief, this can be proven wrong simply by stats alone. In the three Lakers' dynasty seasons, Kobe averaged the most assists per game on the squad. In 2004-05, after Shaq's departure, Bryant set a career-high in assists, at six per game, during an injury-plagued season that saw the Lakers win just 34 games.

In a time line that saw Bryant throw an alley-oop game-winner to O'Neal, multiple game-winners to Lakers' sharpshooters, and pass those attempts out to the likes of Luke Walton and Lamar Odom as well, it's hard to prove that, throughout a significant number of games or seasons, Kobe Bryant was a selfish basketball player.

5) Tracy McGrady is the Only Guy Who Just Can't Get it Done in the Postseason.

Not quite. In eleven, completed NBA seasons, McGrady has had seven first-round exits, which means he has missed the playoffs the other four times.

However, Carmelo Anthony just finished up with his fifth consecutive first-round elimination, in his five-year career. Many also forget that Yao Ming was drafted in 2002, and has had four first-round KO's in six NBA seasons, even though only one of them was without Tracy.

Stephon Marbury is also a first-round virgin, even though he was a consistent twenty and eight player for seven straight years.

4) Steve Nash's MVP Seasons Were Incredible.

They were good, but not incredible.

In Nash's first MVP season, he averaged 15.5 PPG, while dishing 11.5 APG. If you know your history, you'd remember that John Stockton surpassed those combined totals four times in his career, between 1989-1992.

You'd be shocked to hear that Kevin Johnson did it as well, in his second NBA season, averaging 20.4 PPG and 12.2 APG, capping off the season with a 55-win total.

What's even more questionable? Neither of them received a single first-place MVP vote in the years noted above.

Before Steve Nash, the last MVP to average under 20 points was Bill Walton, back in 1978. Before that? Wes Unseld, 1969.

3) LeBron James Is the Next Michael Jordan.

Actually, the only thing similar between the two is the jersey number.

Jordan was an astounding jumpshooter, one of the league's best defensive players, and an excellent free throw shooter. Where Jordan was a fighter plane, LeBron is a train.

James outweighs Jordan by 50-60 pounds or more (depending on what Jordan we are talking about), crashing to the rim at will, and playing a more wreckless game. If you want to compare LeBron to someone, view him as a small forward version of Shaquille O'Neal, early Orlando Magic days.

2) The Eastern Conference is weak.

Where it's true that the East has lost its fair share of dominance since the retirement of Michael Jordan, it's difficult for me to continue using this argument that the East is a weaker conference.

It might be a breeze to make the playoffs for some East teams, possibly having a better chance of getting to the second round as well, but after that, you run into the Boston Celtics and the Detroit Pistons—two teams who held the NBA's best records last season.

In addition to those two, the Cleveland Cavaliers are just two years removed from the NBA Finals, and the Orlando Magic can't be ignored as a contender, either. At the very least, four East teams have Finals potential.

Out West, you can make this argument for the Lakers, Hornets, Rockets and possibly the Suns and Spurs. Since 2003, the Spurs have been alternating with East teams to win the NBA championship (Spurs, Pistons, Spurs, Heat, Spurs, and Celtics, in that order).

Looking at it from this perspective, you have to believe that the Eastern Conference is hanging in there, providing legitimate contenders every year.

1) Shot attempts should be much less than your points total.

At first glance, you'd believe this to be true, but there's a small problem. We all know that big men should be shooting 50 percent or better, but what about guards?

If a guard makes half of his shots, wouldn't you agree that his field goal percentage is excellent?

Let's pick out a shooting guard who stays away from the three and doesn't get to the line as often as others—Boston Celtics guard Tony Allen—and assume he starts in place of an injured Ray Allen, takes 22 shot attempts and scores 22 points. How would that be possible if we pretend he didn't get to the line one time?

Allen would have to make 11 of his 22 shots in order to equal that point total, and if you do the math, that's 50 percent shooting. Where a few fans like to say that's a bad thing, I fail to see how it could be placed on Tony's shoulders. What if he was attacking the rim, and the referees decided not to give him his calls? What if he just wasn't getting fouled at all? It's still an above-average shooting performance for a guard.

Before stepping into the media's bear trap full of inaccuracies and assumptions, try using your own observations, and you can never go wrong with statistics.

There will always be bad interpretations relating to player and team performances, but they exist for you to discuss and alter to your liking, even if you don't get paid for it. In the end, no legitimate debate is one-sided, and as simple as adjusting the time on your wristwatch, anything can be manipulated in your favor.

Brandon's Series Preview: Lakers Will Topple Jazz

Brandon Neal — Sat, 03 May 2008 11:46:39 -0400

First and foremost, congratulations to the 2008 Most Valuable Player, Kobe Bryant. It's funny how one can go from being the most hated player in the NBA (even among his own team's fanbase) to the MVP, favored by not just Lakers fans, but some non-Lakers fans as well.

Since changing his number, nobody really knew what to expect from Bryant, but we know now: it was a transition from an athlete always in attack mode, to one possessing the ability to "throw the dagger" even without the ball in his hands.

He is more of a complete weapon than the scoring juggernaut we've watched for two or three years after the dynasty.

After sweeping the Nuggets, the Los Angeles Lakers are storming into the second round against a tired Utah Jazz team.

Watching Game Six of the Rockets/Jazz series, I noticed how vulnerable the Jazz are in the first half of games. They will either give up a massive amount of points in the first six minutes, or allow late-quarter runs in the first and second quarters of the games.

In a notable game this year, the Lakers were up by 20 points at the end of the first quarter of a game in Utah, on March 20. Surprisingly, that game was played without Pau Gasol (ankle) and Andrew Bynum (knee).

The result was a 106-95 win, snapping Utah's 19-game home win streak.

Los Angeles was outrebounded and had fewer free throw attempts, but shot 52.5% from the field compared to Utah's 45%. With similar turnovers, assists, and three-point numbers, you'd think it would be a one-point game.

In a meeting on Dec. 28, the Jazz were blasted, being down 32 at the end of the third quarter.

The rebounding numbers were the same, similar assists, but the shooting numbers were similar to the game above. The Lakers shot over 54 percent from the floor.

Deron was a non-factor, Kobe sat the entire fourth, and the Lakers held on for a 123-109 victory.

The Lakers shot 56 percent against the Jazz on Nov. 4, when Kwame Brown was starting for Los Angeles. It led to a 119-109 Lakers victory. Oh yeah, no Odom.

The only loss was back in Utah, where the Lakers were defeated by a Boozer-less, Okur-less Jazz team. Kobe played less minutes due to foul trouble, the Lakers were out-rebounded by 14, and shot only 44 percent from the floor. Fluke? I'd like to think so.

Kobe has made life easier for everyone on the floor. The Lakers win games with Kobe distributing the ball, shooting over 50 percent against Utah in all three wins, and posting similar rebounding stats, as well as turnovers.

As much as I'd like to stay in between optimism and pessimism, this Utah Jazz team may not have a chance.

Keep in mind that this team would be a sixth-seeded West team if it wasn't for the "division champs" rule.

I watched a ton of the Lakers through the dynasty. I'm sure many of you did, also. The triangle offense, being ran today, looks nearly as good as it did eight years ago.

When it's running perfectly, the Lakers are a post threat, as well as an outside threat. Teams like the Jazz can't overcome something so complicated, especially without momentum, and you can almost certainly tally four wins for the Lakers based on home court advantage alone.

The spreading of the floor, the passing among all five players, the post game of Gasol, versatility of Odom and the three-point daggers by Fisher and Vujacic (not to mention Luke Walton's average of 16/5/5 on 63% shooting versus Denver) is a huge advantage for the Lakers. Did I forget about Kobe Bryant?

Los Angeles Lakers Fave 5

C - Pau Gasol
Playoff Averages: 22.3 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 5.0 APG (58.2% FG)
vs. Jazz this season: (n/a)

PF - Vladimir Radmanovic
Playoff Averages: 8.3 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 2.8 APG (31.6% FG)
vs. Jazz this season: 8.5 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 1.0 APG (48% FG)

SF - Lamar Odom
Playoff Averages: 11.8 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 4.5 APG (41.9% FG)
vs. Jazz this season: 15.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 4.7 APG (63% FG)

MVP - Kobe Bryant
Playoff Averages: 33.5 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 6.3 APG (50% FG)
vs. Jazz this season: 29.8 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 5.0 APG (56.3% FG)

PG - Derek Fisher
Playoff Averages: 8.5 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.5 APG (43.3% FG)
vs. Jazz this season: 10.8 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 4.3 APG (27.8% FG)

Utah Jazz Fave 5

C - Mehmet Okur
Playoff Averages: 13.2 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 1.7 APG (40% FG)
vs. Lakers this season: 9.0 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 2.7 APG (29% FG)

PF - Carlos Boozer
Playoff Averages: 16.0 PPG, 11.7 RPG, 2.7 APG (42.9% FG)
vs. Lakers this season: 22.0 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 3.7 APG (46.2% FG)

SF - Andrei Kirilenko
Playoff Averages: 9.3 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 2.0 APG (40.7% FG)
vs. Lakers this season: 14.5 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 4.3 APG (47.4% FG)

SG - Ronnie Brewer
Playoff Averages: 9.3 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 1.3 APG (51.1% FG)
vs. Lakers this season: 14.8 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 2.5 APG (55.6% FG)

PG - Deron Williams
Playoff Averages: 20.8 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 8.5 APG (53% FG)
vs. Lakers this season: 23.8 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 6.5 APG (53.7% FG)

Keys To Victory

Bench Scoring (Regular Season Series)
Los Angeles Lakers; 147 (36.8 PPG vs. UTA)
Utah Jazz: 108 points (27 PPG vs. LAL)

The Lakers' bench has been ignited all season long. With Millsap, Korver and Harpring coming off the bench for the Jazz, you would think they'd be enough to stop Farmar, Vujacic and Walton.

If the Jazz continue to give up so many bench points, it not only builds on leads late in the first three quarters, but it also gives Kobe and Gasol their much-needed rest to close out the game. That's something Tracy McGrady was unable to have against the Jazz in the first round.

In the 32-point bashing LA gave Utah through three quarters on Dec. 28, Deron was held to 3-for-9 shooting, six points and six assists.

Unlike the situation the Lakers were in when Kobe wasn't scoring the ball in Game 1, the Jazz have nowhere to go when Deron is playing horribly.

He is the nuts and bolts of this Jazz squad, and even though the Lakers really don't need to shut him down to win (he played wonderfully in the other three meetings), doing so will almost guarantee us a victory.

Finally, underestimating the Jazz could give them a victory on the road or at home. Ronnie Brewer, who I would consider a decent player, performs very well against the Lakers.

Millsap and Korver could do the same. The Lakers are notorious for letting those decent players shoot the lights out (don't make me remind you of the Charlotte Bobcats), so going in thinking they don't need to defend everyone may be a mistake the Lakers will regret late in the game.

The Jazz are the best home team in the NBA, but as you saw with the Rockets, they definitely fought them in Utah.

The crowd will be hostile, and where that will be a good thing for Kobe, it may not be for Derek Fisher, who has underperformed against the Jazz all season long.

If the Lakers stick to their guns and change their game every quarter, allowing Kobe to play multiple roles, the Lakers can wrap this up in five games.

My pick? The Lakers, in five. Don't be surprised if it's a sweep, though, or if Utah decides to take a couple at home in this series.

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Look and Listen: Kobe Bryant Is MVP

Brandon Neal — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:59:08 -0400

Near the end of last year, I was diagnosed with severe, proliferative diabetic retinopathy. By March my doctor told me I was legally blind, and up until last week my eyes were useless.

For over a month, I couldn't believe my ears.

While at least five or six teams were battling for the top spot in the Western Conference, one thing caught my attention quicker than Drew Gooden's goatee located on the back of his head.

The undying hate for Kobe Bryant.

Two seasons ago, Steve Nash claimed his second MVP award. Bryant had his best statistical season at that time, averaging over 35 points per game, outscoring the Dallas Mavericks through three quarters, and scoring 81 points on the Toronto Raptors.

Unfortunately for Bryant, the Lakers fought through injuries and pulled away with 45 wins, enough to make the playoffs.

John Stockton would be disappointed. He played a few seasons that matched, and sometimes outmatched, Nash's two MVP seasons. Still, Karl Malone snagged all the credit, while Amare Stoudemire was said to be a product of the unselfish Canadian.

Dominant scorer Kobe? Not good enough.

Last season, Bryant became everyone's favorite team player, changing his jersey number to signify the teammate in him—the new Kobe—all while leading the Lakers to another playoff berth with only 42 wins.

Teammate Kobe? Not good enough.

Many seem to forget that, years ago, Bryant was a stellar teammate. He ran the triangle offense and averaged a team-high in assists for all three dynasty seasons in Los Angeles. He also provided the team with a second option in himself, as well as clutch scoring and exceptional perimeter defense.

Kobe's efforts fell short, though, as Shaquille O'Neal helped split votes in the MVP race. O'Neal even won one despite Kobe's presence.

Championship, facilitator Kobe? Not good enough.

This season, Kobe Bryant is, yet again, the primary scoring option. He's also running the offense, finding open teammates, just as he did eight years ago.

Bryant is playing exceptional first-team perimeter defense. Instead of an average 45-win season, Kobe's Lakers are preparing for their 57th win of the season, top seed in the Western Conference.

With a tear in his finger, an injured Derek Fisher and Andrew Bynum, less than a third of a season with Pau Gasol, and no All-Star teammates to count on, Kobe Bryant has combined everything he has done in the last decade to make a run for the MVP award.

Perfect Kobe? Not good enough.

For reasons I have no explanation for, voters are standing for Chris Paul, who has David West (All-Star), Tyson Chandler (a very good center), and Peja Stojakovic (one of the best shooters in the NBA). Paul is somehow dragging in more support than ever in the second half of the season.

History tells us that if this were Bryant with these teammates in 2001, he would see few votes for MVP.

LeBron James, who has been a dominating statistical monster this season, has no chance of winning 50 games. If this were Bryant in 2006, the voters would put him in his place, at third or fourth in the race.

Boston's superstar forward Kevin Garnett won his only MVP award when he was with Minnesota, logging a 58-win season, similar to Kobe and the Lakers this year.

In the last eight or nine years, Kobe Bryant has done everything there is to do for the Los Angeles Lakers. In the past three or four years, he has been the best player in the NBA.

He may not be as complete as Michael Jordan, but he's as close as anyone can get to arguably the greatest player ever to grace the NBA.

Closest to Michael Jordan? Not good enough.

It's been quite a while since I've actually watched Kobe Bryant play, but quite frankly, I've heard enough. I couldn't help but wonder if these NBA analysts and commentators are suffering from the same disability I am at this time, because from what I've been hearing, all eyes are on Chris Paul.

This is Kobe's 12th NBA season, and zero times he has been named the most valuable player. He's never even been in second place.

It's true that Paul, LeBron, and Garnett may be most valuable to their teams.

But in a pool of 450 players, the one with the highest league value, the man all general managers would pay the most for one single season, the player that has deserved it for quite some time now, Kobe Bryant's reign as NBA most valuable player is long overdue.

Eyes on the prize, Kobe. We've both seen better days.

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Three's Company, or Four? NBA Teams Stock Stars for Playoff Runs

Brandon Neal — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 07:55:08 -0500

It's been the same story every season: a certain team injects their roster with an additional star player, the media jumps on the bandwagon and calls them contenders, and we are all reminded of the San Antonio Spurs' big three.

It seems to be so common in the last few years—and quite frankly, it's blistering to my ears when rumors claim there's another danger being assembled in the Western Conference.

The biggest story of 2007 had to have occurred in the off-season, when the Boston Celtics reloaded with All-Stars Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen. Along with Paul Pierce, the three were dubbed "The Boston Three Party" and "The Big Three" by the starving media and eager Celtics fans.

But what about four?

The last time we really witnessed a core of four stars on one team, it was the 2004 Los Angeles Lakers, adding veterans Karl Malone and Gary Payton to an already dominant duo of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal. That particular Lakers squad was on pace to win 66 games before Malone's injury (starting 20-5), and right before the end of December, the injury bug started biting.

This year, there are four teams in the NBA who could fit that mold.

The Los Angeles Lakers, who, sometime in April, should have a frontline of three players who are or nearly are seven feet tall, will be one of the scariest teams gearing for a top four spot in the playoffs. Let's not ignore the facts: Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum are all capable of grabbing 10 rebounds on any given night, pairing 15-20 points with them.

We haven't seen a front three that massive and talented since Robert Parish, Kevin McHale and Larry Bird won championships for the Boston Celtics in the 80's.

With Kobe Bryant thrown into the pot, you can't help but think that the Lakers are just as mean as the 2004 Lakers. Anyone can make an argument that, without those injuries to Malone, Shaq and Kobe, Los Angeles would have an extra 60-win season under their belt, along with another championship.

Combined stats: 73.5 PPG, 35.0 RPG, 13.3 APG

Out in Arizona, another big four has developed before our eyes for the Phoenix Suns. Steve Nash, Amare Stoudemire, Grant Hill and the newly-acquired Shaquille O'Neal may have all the tools for a run at the NBA championship. As many have pointed out, it's a hit or miss for the Suns, who took a gamble by placing one of the largest players in the fastest offense in the NBA, but what if they find success in the second half of the season? The "hit" I speak of will either be a grounder to first, or a grand slam, which is parallel to the difference between a pretender and a contender.

Combined stats: 69.6 PPG, 25.2 RPG, 17.5 APG

Another dangerous four, who have been pushed aside in the playoffs the last two seasons, are the Detroit Pistons. In 2004, you can make an argument for them, but today, Tayshaun Prince has become an amazing player on both ends of the court, and with the experience this team has together, they have a shot at the NBA Finals in a weaker Eastern Conference (yet we all know the road goes through the Celtics this year).

Like them or not, the Pistons are flexing their muscles with talent. Chauncey Billups gives Detroit very solid point guard play, with exceptional defense and clutch shooting. Richard Hamilton is possibly the best mid-range shooter in the NBA. Rasheed Wallace has very good range and defense. With the growth of Prince, the Pistons are "four on the floor" most of the time, due to their stellar training staff (or their great stroke of luck).

Combined stats: 61.4 PPG, 18.0 RPG, 16.2 APG

You can also make the case for the New Orleans Hornets, who are stacked with two current All-Stars, one of the best shooters in the league, and a defensive beast at center. Chris Paul, David West, Peja Stojakovic and Tyson Chandler have driven the Hornets into the top seed of the Western Conference, and these four could be a more lethal version of last season's Golden State Warriors. Teams have something to sweat about in New Orleans, and it's not just MVP candidate Chris Paul.

Combined stats: 68.7 PPG, 29.7 RPG, 15.4 APG

After two incredible, unexpected trades turned the Western Conference into the frightening, mean bully we all knew in grade school, Mark Cuban decided to build his four. The Dallas Mavericks brought back Jason Kidd to pair with Dirk Nowitzki, Josh Howard and Jason Terry, all with the ability to have 15-20 point games for the Mavericks. It's tough to believe the Mavericks will have the size up front to deal with the larger, more powerful frontcourts in the league, but if the right path is available to them in the playoffs, they could easily follow the yellow brick road into the conference finals.

Combined stats: 69.6 PPG, 26.8 RPG, 19.8 APG

Rumors are swirling about the Spurs or the Denver Nuggets stealing Ron Artest from the Sacramento Kings. If the disgruntled star is headed to Colorado, or packing his bags for the Alamo, you can add another team to the list.

In a sport where satisfaction was achieved by putting together the perfect duo, or even the most absurd trio of players, four's company is now knocking on our door.

Note: combined stats are not projected statistics, just the four averages added up per team

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The Better Half: Brandon's Power Rankings

Brandon Neal — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 09:49:18 -0500

In the perfect world, there would be sixteen teams with winning records entering the NBA playoffs. With the Eastern Conference crumbled and nearly wiped off the NBA map, only five teams in the conference have a winning record. Is it understandable that two of these teams would be the best teams in the NBA according to standings?

The thing is, the two best records in the East reflect the two strongest teams in the entire league, and it has more to do with star power and/or team chemistry than it does their total wins and losses.

In our world, well, we have the better half of the league: ten Western Conference teams paired with five Eastern Conference standouts. The most amazing fact about this: there are nine teams in the Western Conference that are on pace to win 50 games this season. If you think about it, one will not make the playoffs.

With that said, here are the top 15 teams in the NBA, based on overall record, statistics, strength of schedule, winning streaks, and anything else you can gather from the first half of the season. It's the better half, with no room for losing records.

1) Boston Celtics (41-9)

Notes: The Celtics are one of two teams to allow less than 90 points per game this season.

The Celtics are undefeated against Western Conference opponents this season and own the best record in the NBA. The only thing that I find difficult to understand would be the two consecutive losses to the disabled Washington Wizards during Rajon Rondo's injury. If the kid is that important to Doc's system, it makes you wonder if he'll be able to maintain his composure come playoff time.

2) Detroit Pistons (39-13)

Notes: Detroit is that second team.

To be honest, it was close between the two top teams in the East. Boston gets the nod, but the Detroit Pistons may have a chance to snag a number one in the second half of the season. The Pistons have a great shot at making the NBA Finals, and the only team that is standing in their way is a team they have defeated convincingly earlier this season.

3) New Orleans Hornets (36-15)

Notes: The Hornets have the second highest three-point percentage in the NBA.

Byron Scott is enjoying the show in New Orleans, and the show has nothing to do with trumpets and saxophones. All-Stars Chris Paul and David West, grouped with shooting-ace Peja Stojakovic, forms a tandem that could break a few hearts in the West come April and May. The amazing thing is, I didn't mention Tyson Chandler.

4) Los Angeles Lakers (35-17)

Notes: The Lakers are winning games by an average of six or more points, third in the league next to Boston and Detroit.

The world couldn't be large enough for Kobe Bryant and the Lakers, as it has been resting on their shoulders since Andrew Bynum's injury. With the young center missing another month, Bryant and new teammate Pau Gasol have no choice but to dominate at their positions. The Lakers are a contender in the West, but with Kobe's torn pinky finger, their current standing may be short-lived.

5) Phoenix Suns (37-16)

Notes: Phoenix shoots slightly over 49 percent from the field this season, a league-high.

Adding a slow, large Shaquille O'Neal to Phoenix's run-and-gun offense doesn't seem like the best plan for a team one suspension away from the NBA Finals. However, there's no reason to remove the Suns from their top five spot yet. For a team that's more focused on their virtual seven-second shot clock than their defense, it remains to be seen how O'Neal plays with the former MVP and the manchild, Amare Stoudemire.

6) Dallas Mavericks (35-18)

Notes: Mark Cuban's Mavericks are 25th in the league in assists per game.

Jason Kidd will be a Maverick, and it won't involve Jerry Stackhouse. Adding the triple double machine might help their assist totals, but the bigger question is still resting on the table: how do the Mavericks contend with the larger teams in the West? The Kidd trade will more than likely secure any wins against a sleeper in the playoffs, but Dirk Nowitzki will need to play his best basketball yet for Dallas to reach the Finals once again.

7) San Antonio Spurs (34-17)

Notes: Tim Duncan and the Spurs have won four titles in the last decade, but neverback-to-back championships.

Tony Parker's MVP performance in the 2007 NBA Finals was just a small piece of evidence proving Parker's value to the Spurs. If you want more proof, take a look at the Spurs with an injured Parker. In November, the Spurs racked up a 14-3 record. Where we don't know when exactly Parker started suffering from his heel injury, his turnovers increased soon after, and the Spurs are 20-14 since, actually going 6-1 in their last seven with Damon Stoudamire.

8) Utah Jazz (34-19)

Notes: The Jazz have won 17 of their last 20 games, including big wins over the Suns, Spurs, Hornets and Rockets.

It took some time for the Jazz to swing their way back into the top seed in the Northwest, but it has been a dogfight between Utah, the Nuggets and the Blazers. Quite frankly, many were surprised to see Utah in the conference finals last season, almost as much as they were to see them third in the division after Portland's surge in 2007. Fortunately, Deron Williams is playing excellent basketball, and Andrei Kirilenko is no longer the emotionally unstable player we perceived him to be in November.

9) Houston Rockets (32-20)

Notes: Houston is on an eight-game winning streak, winning 17 of their last 21 games.

After a poor performance in the months of November and December, including a six-game losing streak in mid-November, the Rockets are on a tear. Finally, Houston fans can make an argument as to who the face of the franchise is, as Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady are both battling it out (in a positive way, of course) and leading their squad to a nice record in the tough Southwest Division. The schedule may favor Houston a bit, but it's the case with every team at some point of the season.

10) Denver Nuggets (32-20)

Notes: Denver is first in the league in blocks and steals per game, and second in the NBA in rebounds.

By looking at statistics, you have to believe that the Denver Nuggets are a fairly good defensive team. In addition to the blocks, steals and boards, the Nuggets hold their opponents to under 45 percent shooting, which is sixth in the league. When you add two of the top scorers in the NBA to their roster, it makes you wonder why this team isn't a top five, at the very least.

11) Orlando Magic (33-21)

Notes: Orlando is fifth in field goal percentage, but in the bottom half of the league in opponents' shooting numbers.

Who would've known that Stan Van Gundy had planned on calling out Dwight Howard in public? It's now apparent that Howard used the criticism as a motivational tool, but the Magic are too good on paper to not be mentioned in the elite group of the East, which currently contains Boston, Detroit and LeBron James (don't ask me, ask the media).

12) Golden State Warriors (32-20)

Notes: Golden State is allowing over 47 rebounds per game, the worst in the NBA.

Don Nelson's Warriors are the highest scoring team in the league as of the break, also snagging the top spot in points allowed, and the bottom spot in rebounding by opponents. It's very clear what Golden State needs to work on, but unclear where to begin, which is why all the star power in Oakland couldn't turn Nelson's group into a contender out west. A start would be to turn them into a mock of the old Bucks team Nelson coached in the 80's, but it may be too late to rebuild.

13) Cleveland Cavaliers (29-23)

Notes: Cleveland is one of two teams above .500 (Portland is the other) that have been outscored by their opponents so far this season.

The Cavaliers are second in the NBA in rebounding differential, which is not hard to understand considering the fact that they have four players grabbing nearly eight or more rebounds per game. The Cavs started off the new year 10-2 before Anderson Varejao went down with an injury, and since then, they have managed a 5-4 record, although the schedule did seem to get tougher.

14) Toronto Raptors (28-23)

Notes: Toronto is the best three-point shooting team in the NBA, and the second best from the charity stripe.

Turnovers, anyone? You won't find them being committed by the Raptors. Toronto sits behind Boston as second best in least amount of turnovers per game, and it may be the extra bit of rope that keeps them hanging in the East. With Jose Calderon's assists-to-turnover ratio higher than that of Chris Paul or Chauncey Billups, it's not difficult to realize that the Raptors are playing smart basketball to cement their spot in the playoffs.

15) Portland Trailblazers (28-24)

Notes: The Blazers have lost their last four games, all being on the road. They scored over 85 points in just one of those games.

After winning 13 consecutive games with nine of them at home, against teams with a combined win percentage of .467 (as of today), the Blazers are 6-11 in their last 17 games. That's right, folks: 13-0 to 6-11. When you play Dallas, Houston, Detroit, Cleveland, New Orleans, Orlando and Boston, you're going to lose a few games (and that's seven of their 11 total losses).

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Tanking: The NBA's Downside

Brandon Neal — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 19:34:03 -0500

I've been playing basketball since I was in elementary school. I'm 24 years old now, so I'm rounding third toward my second decade with a ball in my hand.

I grew up watching the Chicago Bulls dominate the NBA, saw Kobe Bryant put on a Hornets cap, cringed when Tim Duncan was united with The Admiral, dropped my jaw during the Pistons and Pacers brawl, and shed a tear when Kobe scored 81. The 90's were fantastic, and for the last seven years, it was incredibly tough to find a reason to complain about anything associated with the game.

I caught a glimpse of the Miami Heat playing the Detroit Pistons Wednesday night. Miami held its own, fighting to the finish, only to lose by five points. This Miami team is nowhere near the team they were in 2006, but they still have a superstar in Dwyane Wade—not to mention an excellent coach on the sidelines.

It's no secret: Dwyane Wade is seriously injured. He may be as bad as Jermaine O'Neal, who is having numerous problems to date. Stephon Marbury made the decision to end his season early. Elton Brand, a former West All-Star forward, has yet to suit up for the Clippers. Tracy McGrady can be seen limping on and off the court during Houston games and it cost him his All-Star spot this season.

Honestly, it's not exactly the injuries that make this NBA season a slight turn-off, though. What hurts me would not only be the fans who enjoy the depressing news—those who don't support the team—but also those that do support them, for what seems like all the wrong reasons.

A perfect example of this would be the current discussions over the Heat and next year's draft prospects. It's perfectly fine to say they will land a top pick in the draft, but to be excited about losing only because you want the lottery pick?

Everyone who knows me understands that I dislike the San Antonio Spurs. I'm a Lakers fan—it's my duty to despise our rivals. Unfortunately, our rivals are an astounding team, but the way their supremacy was born gives me reason to question their heart and desire to win.

After a long recovery from David Robinson, which seemed to drag out longer than any other injury in recent memory, the Spurs were in perfect position to select Wake Forest's superhuman, Tim Duncan. It was no laughing matter—the Spurs were already on track to win it all within three years, and it took less than that to bring it home.

Supporting defeat is something I'd never resort to. With the turmoil brewing daily in New Jersey, you could walk up to 50 percent of Nets fans and ask them their opinions on the Jason Kidd situation. You may hear plenty of them speaking in favor of rebuilding, looking forward to the 2008 Draft, hoping that the Nets can get something for Kidd or the Nets continue to lose until they "wise up" and get rid of him.

If your desire starts with losing, you may feel the same way. You may be excited about lottery draft picks and a large amount of cap space, your team being the headline of every NBA discussion, or setting the franchise record for most consecutive losses in a season.

Frankly, I'm the complete opposite. When I was a junior in high school, I shattered my ankle sprinting around the track during basketball conditioning. If you want to know what real pain feels like, mix physical pain with emotional suffering. Sit down in the doctor's office, shaking because you're so nervous, awaiting to hear the good news, only to find that he has declined to tell you any. Try going through extreme physical therapy, on your own, while dealing with low blood sugars and four or five insulin shots a day just to get back on the court.

I did it because I couldn't live without winning. You can't deny the feeling that jets through your veins when you release the perfect shot, when you watch the ball elevate and you are so sure it's automatic, you drop your arms and make your way back down the court.

Do you get goosebumps when you view an arsenal of fans in an arena slinging their arms in the air when a game-winning jumper falls through? I hope so, because if your body contains any emotion whatsoever, and you are dedicated to the game of basketball, you feel just as I do.

There's no excuse—if you're rooting for defeat, you might as well cheer for the opposition for the rest of your life, not only in sports, but for every job you apply for, every contest you enter, and every goal you set. You may have trouble coming to an agreement with all of this, which is absolutely fine, but the difference between a winner and a loser is success.

For any cause, for any reason, due to any scenario or negotiation, losing is never an option until it forces itself upon you. If you fail 99 percent of the time, make sure you come out on top the other one percent, because it not only develops a sense of strength and pride when your peers are tuned in, but also a small boost of self-esteem to ride on until your next victory.

Where I'm always looking for a good quote, I'll take a step forward and write something special myself:

Success isn't defined just by how much you win, but also by the effort you put into a losing situation.

In a world where second place is normally viewed as the first loser, tanking games is definitely an NBA team's substance abuse. No matter when it was used, the opposing fans will never forget it.

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Desert Dud?: Why Shaquille O'Neal Won't Work in Phoenix

Brandon Neal — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 04:14:55 -0500

In recent history, the NBA has provided fans with some of the most irregular transactions we can imagine.

The Phoenix Suns are no strangers to these.

In 1992, the Suns stole one of the greatest forwards of all time—Charles Barkley—by trading away Jeff Hornacek and a couple of players you may never hear of in your lifetime.

(Props if you know Jeff, but he was a fantastic shooter.)

The end result: Sir Charles won an MVP that season with Phoenix and the Suns were ousted in the NBA Finals by Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls.

Flip the switch to 2008.

Shaquille O'Neal, who may be the worst center for Mike D'Antoni's run and gun offense, is awaiting his first game as a member of (gasp) the Phoenix Suns.

The trade itself wasn't so bad. Shawn Marion is a free agent at season's end and it was expected that the Suns would let him go, safely assuming this because of their interest in the cap situation (letting Kurt Thomas go to the Sonics for a second rounder made this more obvious after the Joe Johnson trade for Atlanta's pick).

The Heat get out from under Shaq's overweight contract (no reference to O'Neal there), and bring in a player who may help them win 20 games this season. Both teams win when those factors are considered.

But I'm sorry to inform the Suns fans that, once you incorporate Shaq into your offense, you become the biggest losers.

OK, so it has been repeated many times that O'Neal won't be a major part of Phoenix's run and gun system. This is completely false and here's why:

1) O'Neal is unable to move out of the paint.

You'd love this if you were a half-court team that wants to beat up the frontcourt, slow down the game, and drag the opposition through the mud, but Phoenix is on another planet. When Shaq is stuck under the rim, the screen and rolls between Nash and his teammates are useless if Steve decides to pass out of them, because instead of attacking the rim, the Suns will have to settle for a mid-range jumper, unless they believe they can dunk over their own teammate.

Assuming Phoenix pounds the ball inside to Amare, he isn't exactly "inside" anymore.

Amare's forte was his ability to dunk. The Suns are 63-62 when Amare is playing power forward and there's a reason for that. Putting Stoudemire a few feet away from the rim means he's going to shoot the ball more, and after watching him attempt a three-pointer last night against the Hornets in a clutch situation, you have to wonder if he's going to try and turn himself into Utah's Mehmet Okur.

If you feel good about that, you'll be disappointed for the rest of the season.

2) Shaq demands the ball to be effective.

I'm a devoted Lakers fan and I've seen plenty of O'Neal, even in his days at Miami (because I simply hated the Heat at that time). If you're willing to admit that Shaq can average six points per game in the Suns' offense, so be it—you can stop reading from here on out. Otherwise, you can only wonder what happens when he does receive the ball, if you've avoided watching him all these years.

Here's a secret: Putting the ball in Shaq's hands will not only delay the offense, but also keep it out of Steve Nash's hands. If the Suns want to score in seven seconds or less, they might want to do that with Shaq riding the pine.

3) He still can't hit his free throws.

Phoenix shoots at nearly 79 percent from the charity stripe. (At this time, they are tied for fifth in the NBA.) Within the final three or four minutes of the fourth quarter, the Suns can unload a massive amount of points because of their speed and ability to get to the foul line. They wear their opponents down.

In Los Angeles, Miami, and Orlando, the fans will be the first to admit that Shaq does not belong on the court late in a close game.

With that in mind, how does Phoenix set up an offense against a powerful Spurs and Lakers team in the playoffs with O'Neal on the bench? You can depend on Amare, but what happens back down the court?

O'Neal won't be there to defend the likes of Duncan or Bynum/Gasol in that situation, and if he is on the court, expect him to go to the line and miss his free throws instead.

Kerr and the organization seem to think they have brought in one of the best defensive centers in the NBA. Quite frankly, they are missing out on at least 10 better options.

Alonzo Mourning, who was underrated for his services in Miami the last two or three years, averaged more blocks per game this season, all while playing a full quarter less than Shaq. O'Neal has also picked up an average of four fouls in less than 30 minutes per contest, a statistic he nearly reached two years ago as well.

Even then, Shaq's body is his greatest enemy, causing him to miss a mass amount of games in his last three seasons. Excluding this season, Shaq has only played in a total of 99 games in his last two years, which is just 17 games more than a full NBA year. After missing a number of games for Miami this year, Shaq's weight is said to be down to an amazing 312 pounds in earlier reports, now listed at 324, but the weight loss may not reflect his work ethic more than it does his injury status and his age, and dropping 20 or 30 pounds in less than a couple of months is tough on the human heart.

Phoenix needed to roll the dice, but trading for an aging, half-court monster in Shaquille O'Neal may fatally wound the Suns for years, especially with Nash's back problems and father time at his doorstep.

The Miami Heat nearly sacrificed their future for one ring (and that could still be the case), but with Phoenix out in the tougher conference, running an incompatible offense and not having a Phil Jackson or a Pat Riley coaching Shaq in practices and during games, the trade makes little to no sense for a team that was one hip-check away from the NBA Finals last season.

Look on the bright side: If it falls through, the Knicks have enough to offer for Shaq.

NBA Traders: The Lakers, the Suns...and the Mavericks?

Brandon Neal — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 01:51:36 -0500

After what many Dallas fans found to be a complete disaster in the playoffs last season (losing to the Golden State Warriors in the first round), the Dallas Mavericks may be sitting on their hands entering the All-Star break.

Two legitimate West contenders, the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers, are knocking on the San Antonio Spurs' front door.

Where do the Mavericks fit in?

Unfortunately, they don't, as of the beginning of February.

Although it's true that the Mavericks are bobbing and weaving for that division lead against the surging New Orleans Hornets in the Southwest Division, it's also noticeable that they have done little to nothing to improve their chances at a title for the 2007-2008 season.

Rumors that Mark Cuban showed interest in Shaquille O'Neal may have forced the Phoenix Suns to trade Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks for the aging center. But even if this move proves to be a devastating blow to the Suns' run-and-gun offense, the Mavericks are still left out, struggling to keep up with the Lakers, Hornets, and Jazz—three of the hottest teams out West at the moment.

However, if the rumors stand true, there's a chance Dallas may be going after that missing piece, and there are plenty of options out there for the Mavs to consider.

Jason Kidd, who wouldn't mind packing his things and heading to Texas, would be perfect for the Mavericks. With the ongoing experiments of Avery Johnson and moving Jason Terry and Devin Harris in and out of the lineups each night, it's obvious that the Mavs are looking for answers.

Kidd's court vision will most certainly be appreciated by both Dirk Nowitzki and his running mate, Josh Howard, but Dallas' pure shooters will have no problem being on the receiving end as well. New Jersey needs to get out from under his contract, Cuban wouldn't mind dishing out the cash, but giving up Devin Harris could very well be the straw that breaks the camel's back in this proposed deal.

Nonetheless, Jason Kidd in Dallas needs to be considered.

You can't help but wonder what would happen if the Mavericks grew interest in shooting guard Vince Carter. It may never be a topic on any message board with their fans, but bringing in an explosive guard allows the Mavericks to tinker with Terry and Harris as point guards, restricting them to that position only.

However, you're looking at another trade with New Jersey, who would probably shoot for Harris once again, but a trio of Dirk, Howard and Carter could reach the Western Conference Finals.

If no guards are on their wishlist, a possible trade to bring in a defensive center would be nice. DeSagana Diop and Erick Dampier aren't going to cut it in May, and if you can find another big man who can score as well, Cuban has to chase him down.

A prospect would be Charlotte's Emeka Okafor, who doesn't seem excited in an offense that gives him fewer touches than he expects. Marcus Camby has been rumored to be on the block as well, but I don't see Denver assisting the Mavericks, especially by giving them a great defensive-minded player. Jermaine O'Neal may not be the problem-solver this season, but what about next year?

The truth is, Dallas has to step up their game, and that isn't referring to their play with their current roster.

Catering to the league's current MVP is a must; Dirk has been loyal to Dallas since the Milwaukee Bucks traded him for Robert Traylor (and you thought the Gasol trade was terrible).

The old saying goes, "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em."

It's time for Mark Cuban to join Mitch Kupchak and Steve Kerr, and take a shot at a disgruntled superstar player.

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