Bleacher Report - Articles by Graham

Shots in the Dark: The Civil War Here at Bleacher Report Has To Stop

Graham — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 20:06:45 -0400

It's time to fight back, that's what Huey said
Two shots in the dark now Huey's dead
I got love for my brother but we can never go nowhere
Unless we share with each other
We gotta start makin' changes
Learn to see me as a brother instead of two distant strangers

— Tupac Shakur, Changes

In case you haven't noticed, now's the time to lower your guns, lay down your picket signs, and shut your protesting mouths.

That is, unless you want this war to get even more repugnant.

The complaining, incivilities, and nescience has driven me away from this site. It's practically unbearable to watch good friends go down in flames because they made a grammatical error.

I can't tolerate the overflow of pule on this site; especially when the complainers continue to go about their yelling without realizing the work it takes to maintain this exceptionally run Web site.

And worst of all is when a finger shaking with umbrage is pointed toward a fellow Bleacher Creature because they might've taken part in starting a new trend or vogue style, and the accuser is displeased by it.

And I only have one question: Why?

Why are your typing fingers so full of bitterness and vexation?

Why are your eyes so glazed over with antipathy and animosity?

Why must you spit such iniquitous venom and hold such an obdurate grudge?

Because, last I heard, to be successful, you must make friends—not enemies.

It's come to the point where articles are composed for the sole reason of objecting the decision that awards a deserving article POTD. Where SPORTS-related comments made red-faced have turned into threats made with veins popping and foreheads purple.

Oh, and yes, by the way, this is a B/R Chatter article. I'm writing it as a warning. The site has gone so corrupt that one step across the infamous line will cost you 20 or 30 fans, mainly because they're fans of those against the "perpetrator."

Is he/she really a perpetrator, though? Will one B/R Chatter article that wins start a ticking time bomb that can go off at any given moment, or are you guys mature enough to say "Well, if I don't like the method/purpose, I just won't read the article." At least if the author is offended, harsh words won't be exchanged to greatly discourage the writer.

If he does PM you about if, then you can just elaborate on your choice kindly and politely, and likely he'll understand.

If he doesn't, then he's the one clouded by frivolity, not you.

What's with the cries of "I don't like this!" and "this change is stupid!" too? Is it that much of a problem that you can't handle Bleacher trying to look more professional? After all, they're the ones getting you on SI.com and CBS. Maybe if they raise their standards and look, USA Today will be a more common thing and ESPN will enter the realm of possibility.

Like Kevin Garnett said, "ANYTHING'S POSSIBLEEE!!!"

But contrary to the attitude Garnett possessed, you guys can't seem to fight through controversy and the fact that fate may not be kind to you.

And by fate, I mean Bleacher Report adding in the "Like" system, which you may not favor compared to the regular POTD either.

Hey, this ain't rocket science, little Jimmy. If I can figure it out, I'm sure you can too.

Just letting you know, if any of you drop the ol' "Respect your elders" line because of that little crack made above in the comments section, please, wisen up. This is the Internet, for God's sake.

Which reminds me (here I go again), why must you insist on bringing age into stuff like this? I can't speak my mind because of my age? I can't state my opinion in full—and I'm talking about disagreeing here—because you're outraged about being blasted by a youth like me? Well think that one over again.

Don't you think I would be miffed about you practically taping my mouth shut because you're an old timer who goes by the MYTH that you can treat others with coarseness because you have more life experience than I do?

Oh...wait, no. That's right. You're not THAT old-school. You're just like the rest of us—frightened by the thought of being burned by one younger than yourself.

But even after all this ranting, I'm still giving no reason for those of you who agree with me to rush into a corner scrambling to pull out your weapons and stay there, forever fending off the assailants. I'm giving you all a reason to get up after falling down and go back to the old Bleacher Report.

One where vets welcomed newcomers and took them under their wing. Not one that immediately brainwashes innocent and confused newbies that writing a B/R Chatter article is a horrible sin and things of that nature.

I'm placing you in the perfect push-off point, to escape the island of lies and propensity when it came to understanding.

But unfortunately, I won't be with you all on that journey.

This will be my last article on Bleacher Report for a long while. With school starting up, I have absolutely NO time to read your articles, which reflects badly on me and hurts you that wasn't able to stop by, even though I ask you to check in on my stuff.

I also have many projects to work on. I'll leave it at that.

When I return, I look forward to seeing a different Bleacher Report. One that is the opposite of the one I described above.

I may be able to check in with a comment or two once in a blue moon, and I'll certainly set aside time to read my favorite authors. But the days of consistent updates/articles on Bleacher Report will be no more for an extended period of time.

Farewell, friends...

Gone with the Wind: Witnessing Greg Oden's Atrophy

Graham — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 19:43:50 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17

No, seriously.

If any branch has the slightest of movement, Greg Oden will probably fall down and injure himself.

Oden rose from his chair in the green room on NBA Draft night at Madison Square Garden with an auspicious future with the Portland Trailblazers. By the time the 2007-08 season was on top of us, Oden had already told ESPN The Magazine some of his aspirations—one of them being to win 15 championships.

The only problem for Oden was that he was going to miss the entire season after having microfracture surgery on his feeble right knee.

However, Oden was able to chip in next season, the vibrant Trailblazers team looking to be competitive in a Western Conference that left no room for error in 2008-09.

He posted numbers such as 8.9 points and seven rebounds in 61 games (continued to tussle with injuries on and off).

Generally for a rookie, a stat sheet headed by those two averages is impressive; but because NBADraft.net compared Oden to Bill Russell prior to the Draft, we thought otherwise.

Oden came into the league a winner. At Lawrence North High School in Indianapolis, he led the team charge to win three straight Indiana Class 4A basketball before graduating in 2006.

Amidst a pile of awards and trophies—the 2005 National Boys Basketball Player of the Year and the co-winner of Parade's High School Player of the Year to name some—Oden ballooned to become a massive figure representing a new batch of future NBA stars.

Along with Kevin Durant, he was a highly sought-after player, eventually being announced Ohio State's latest recruit, along with longtime friend and teammate Mike Conley, Jr.

That year, Oden played an old-fashioned yet intriguing style of game. Tough, hard defense, including blocked shots and rebounds, with some offense on the side. While Oden had the ability to score, his heart and soul is and always was on the defensive end, where he soon established himself as a force to be reckoned with.

He also led his Buckeye troop to a much anticipated national championship game against the NCAA brute Florida Gators, who boasted Corey Brewer, Joakim Noah, and Al Horford. Unfortunately for Oden, his first season and final game played in College Basketball ended in a loss.

And then Greg Oden was heading to the Draft. After participating in college the minimum number of years (one), Oden took the final step on his dream excursion. With the room exuberant and bouncing with energy, Oden had finally gotten there.

He had been imperturbable for all his life at that point, and although his mindset was always in the direction of where a go-getter would head, now it was time to really prove himself.

But, as I said, he has done everything but that; go down grievously, watch his team catch fire while watching from the sidelines, been criticized for joining in a couple of pickup basketball games, despite sitting out due to injury. Even make the NBA Playoffs, one of the few high notes in his career.

Although that last part is deceiving. While the Blazers made the playoffs, Oden did nothing to share the burden with star teammates such as Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge. He finished a heartbreaking series with the Rockets averaging just five points and a mediocre 4.3 rebounds.

Oden's time in the NBA has been—and I hate to say it because I've been quietly rooting for the kid since he's been drafted—meaningless. He's done practically nothing so far that would draw interest from the fans or other teams besides negative, off-the-court activities (example being in a pickup basketball game while in rehab).

Heck, Oden hasn't even stolen the nickname "The Big O" from Oscar Robertson like I imagined he'd do.

Now the question is, can he break out to become the player we thought he'd be, or will early prosperity culminate into mere dustballs of the past?

We haven't gotten a clear glimpse of his talent, as 61 games isn't even a full season of play. Not only that, but Oden hasn't had enough exhibitions of games where he is at his best—something we must get a look at before examining the caliber player he is.

Oden's height and athleticism are great advantages down low, another being his dexterity to sprint up and down the court without huffing and puffing. Oden also has tremendous feel for the basketball, which allows him to dominate solely off of dunks, tip-ins, and lay-ups.

In 2007, MyNBADraft.com also reported that Oden learned to deal with smart defenders, who would force Oden to his strong hand, by learning to finish with his opposite hand after injuring his wrist.

The scounting report also tells us that if Oden wishes to consummate what he hopes to achieve in this league, he must work on facing up on his defender and expanding his shooting range.

But Oden's real decrepitude is his lack of self-control. Oden's body is like an air-tight water bottle: It has a lot of firepower when used correctly, but sometimes can run wild without notice.

He can be compared to Ron Artest, who finally figured out how to keep his bundle of vitality under wraps—as well as push his desire to show how virile he was way down with his desire to win. But the Blazers caught a big break; unlike Ron-Ron, Oden doesn't have any steam coming out of his ears.

So what do you guys think? Will Oden's loose grip on the cliff of doom tighten and allow him to scale up again, or will he continue plummeting to the dwellings of Michael Olowokandi and Kwame Brown?

Oden's downfall was injuries. He's capable of being a truck down low, but has to adjust his mental toughness, ability to bridle certain urges on the court, and understanding of the game.

Will he step off the court a winner or a loser?

LeGarrette Blount: When "Gone Too Far" Becomes an Understatement

Graham — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 19:34:57 -0400

Also seen at mvn.com/outsider.

Wednesday night, we witnessed one of the very few things in the period of a year that we can legitimately say made our jaws drop, eyeballs pop, and hands cover our mouths.

LeGarrette Blount made some horrific decisions that drastically changed the course of his NCAA football career (suspended for the rest of a much anticipated Oregon season) and NFL hankerings. Blount connected his knuckles with last night's jokester in the Oregon-Boise State game, Bryon Hout, after being overwhelmed with his unfathomable performance.

When the loss finally hit him square in the noggin, the stomach, the heart, Blount lashed out to a point of no return.

Eyes on fire and body shaking with rage, confusion, and disappointment, he proceeded to skip back a few steps and then do a few hand gestures basically interpreting his dignity (or what he had left of it at that point) and self-respect (though it seemed that he had none last night).

As if Blount could not have acted more delinquent, he then attempted to poke his teammate in the eye through the helmet, in hopes of getting around the restraining players and getting another shot at Hout, who at that point didn't understand what had happened.

In his defense, neither did we. The whole scene had tornado'd so fast that we didn't really experience yet another Blount tantrum until seeing the repeated pictures and videos several times Thursday morning.

But oh no, Blount wasn't done yet. Now with innumerable players, staff, and even police patrol surrounding the flashing "caution" sign that was Blount last night, number nine couldn't quite make it to the locker room without jawing and even trying to get at some of the jeering fans.

While screams and shrieks ran out in the night, Blount finally became enveloped in the darkness of the night and the tunnel. Hunched over in shame, he made his apology and assured everyone that such an incident will never happen again if he can help it.

Even when the shower drops spat at him before his press conference, Blount still didn't fully comprehend what had happened.

He still had an urge to prove himself more to Hout and everyone else watching; not just with a football in his hand and his legs racing down the field, but with a punch so Earth-shattering and destructive that no sane person would ever want to provoke Blount again.

He didn't come to the realization that he had probably just went from an easy first or second rounder and elite running back, to a man in need of anger management and therapy. Some even went as far to say that he's undraftable now after last night's calamitous events.

The bottom line is that Blount made a mistake that may not be forgivable in a short amount of time.

He wandered down a forbidden dusty road where ghouls and demons could snatch him without anybody noticing.

Blount altered his future in a matter of seconds; a future that involved him playing the game he loved and getting millions of dollars for it.

Now, years later, instead of Chris Berman yelling "And Blount with another touchdown!" an aghast office boss could be screaming, "LeGarrette! Where's that graph?!"

His teammates were crestfallen, acerbated, and dumbfounded. He devastated his coaches, who were forced to sit him on the bench for the season. He upset his and Oregon's fans, and set an extremely poor example for a way athletes should behave when being faced with criticism and harassment.

While it wasn't highlighted too much in those replays, you could see in the left corner of a video before Blount encountered the raucous fans a teammate of his yelling back looking somewhat disgusted.

Now whether or not he was yelling at Boise St. or at Blount is not clear, but it appeared that he was up to the very last standing hair on his head with Blount, who has a reputation for complaining and easily becoming piqued.

He has faced suspensions, violated team rules, and notoriously achieved getting on former Ducks head coach Mike Bellotti's (who is now the college's Athletic Director) bad side.

He's also known as an emotional player; a fraction of fans seeing him as a cry baby through their eyes.

Blount, during his apology where he resembled a man whose back was against the wall said, "I lost my head, and I shouldn't have taken it that far."

But the fact of the matter is, LaGarrette, that you took it much further than you think you did. You were a highly recruited stud coming out of college, Ole Miss and West Virginia being heavy pursuers outside of OSU.

Blount simply had it made: a scholarship, a lead spot on one of the nation's biggest football programs, and a 1,000-yard rusher in high school. Blount risked it all in his final year with the organization because he wanted to show everyone who he truly was—a punk, an ungrateful player shielded by teammates and coaches. Well, the curtain was pulled open, LaGarrette. Your colors have been revealed.

You were caught red-handed with your fingers grasping a cookie from the jar.

You were seen sneaking out at midnight when you were supposed to be in bed by 11.

LaGarrette Blount doesn't get the big picture.

LaGarrette Blount can't see the forest for the trees.

LaGarrette Blount is done, because people aren't going to express generosity and hand out a number of other chances after seeing what he just did.

All for a lack of self-control.

Now, he represents those who can't walk past the teasing bullies.

He represents those who can't ignore squawks of banters and heckles.

While Blount was granted to continue going to practice, as well as being able to salvage his scholarship, he lost whatever veneration he had left.

And for what?

Being an example when kids are taught how to retort in the red face of negativity?

This time, he couldn't omit the failure, as coach and college football analyst Lou Holtz told us on today's Outside the Lines.

This time, you crossed the line.

This time, LeGarrette Blount, you went far too far.

Put That in Your Pipe and Smoke It: Red's Cigar Is Sports' Best Victory Symbol

Graham — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 20:00:42 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17

Thanks to Leroy Watson for editing this article.

Puff.

One of the most dangerous and ominous words currently in America. With the phenomenon of drugs in the teenage life, and drug abuse affecting almost everyone across America, fear is present in everyone's eyes when it comes not only drugs, but tobacco smoking.

But back in the glory days of the 1940s, '50s, and '60s, a single wisp of smoke followed by a wide grin was everything but an enemy to the Celtics.

Red Auerbach's history of cigar smoking after a win is the most notable symbol of victory in sports ever. When Auerbach stuck a cannon in his mouth, a silent but deadly "BOOM" went off. After that, it was inevitable that Auerbach's Celtics had just stomped all over you.

Auerbach's cigar smoking was just another way to express to his enormous amount of confidence; you could even go as far as saying he was downright cocky.

From BC Sports:

Auerbach was not known for strategy; his playbook did not consist of a series of plays and routes to run. Instead, he had a keen sense of discovering talent: he simply knew who was going to be great. He looked for the in-control point guard and the exceptional rebounder and added in three other talented players, those who could both shoot and play defense. From there, he motivated his team in the manner that only a Red Auerbach could.

He once told The Boston Globe, "It's like this: I got sick and tired of coaches playing for the TV. They'd be 20 points ahead with two minutes to go and they'd be calling plays, waving their arms, showing off. My feeling was, when you knew the game was over, then sit down and shut up.

"Back then, a lot of the coaches smoked. Joe Lapchick used to smoke on the bench all the time. I don't like cigarettes—never touched 'em. But I do like a good cigar."

It was common for an opponent's coach to begin fidgeting when the team started to anticipate a tuft of smoke wafting through the Garden's air, tracing back to a man who slightly turns to face them, with a smirk spreading across his sly face.

Auerbach recalls years ago that the NBA order was badgering him for a number of different things. Says Auerbach, "I tried to think of something to aggravate them. They were abusing me."

When Auerbach started to smoke the barrels, he was warned that he was to stop smoking them on the bench. He responded that he'd stop smoking on the pine when "the other coaches stopped smoking cigarettes." Soon after Auerbach and other cigar companies became keen on the idea of cigar smoking on the bench, Blackstone cigars wanted to endorse him. The rest was history.

"The cigar is a sign of relaxation. The cigarette is a sign of tension," Auerbach once told Sports Illustrated.

Other coaches began to feel uncomfortable to see Auerbach unwind and light a cigar, feeling at ease and without any sign of worry on his face.

Auerbach's players knew they had the upper hand when Red slipped out a large cigar and lit it with such a nerve that the victim on the other side of the court couldn't help but look down, feeling ashamed.

Red was so competitive that he'd do anything to intimidate the visiting team—to have any sort of advantage. Red was all about annoying the killer instinct out of the other team, so his team would be able to win on sheer aggressiveness and hostility. Turning off the hot water in the opposing teams' locker room; gluing the windows shut on a stifling hot Boston day in the visitors' clubhouse; filling the Garden with smoke so as to instill panic in the losing teams' hearts.

Heck, Auerbach even managed to put aside the ignorance of his days (in hopes of having a stronger chance at winning) to break the color barrier in basketball and draft the first ever African-American NBA baller, Chuck Cooper.

And not only did Auerbach do this to irritate, aggravate, and exasperate the NBA and its teams, but for his love of the game and crave for winning. Auerbach didn't just possess a satisfaction for merely popping the cigar and lighting it, but he did it because he had a passion of winning.

And when those grand clouds were released from the cigar like bulls kicking dust in a violent manner, waiting to charge furiously at the intruder, the radiance on Auerbach's face was clear.

Because the bottom line was, Auerbach loved four things—basketball, winning, cigar smoking, and cigar smoking to symbolize a victory in basketball.

He had such a fire in his eyes when scanning the bench adjacent to his that it was as if they were his puppets, and he could mock them with ease. He felt an enormous responsibility to give his team the leverage needed to emerge No. 1 because he simply treasured them.

Auerbach's pure, clean adoration for the game was treated with a certain amount of respect by him—he had his boundaries, but it was his belief that anything that could be undertaken to surmount in the game he clutched near and dear to his heart was most definitely necessary.

Red Auerbach was a legend, flashing with color that differed from the rest.

Whether he was held in high repute or not, all he desired was to be thought of as a winner.

The one who held his fist high in the air for a reason.

The one who was carried with such poise and elegance.

The one who had champagne dripping from his face like tears of joy.

The one who smiled like no other and hugged his players like a bear welcoming home a brother who had brought back a fat piece of fish.

The one who puffed a lock of smoke, leaning back to show that he'd taken care of business.

Glamour, Allure, Razzle-Dazzle: Three Ingredients To David Beckham's Legend

Graham — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 19:56:25 -0400

Thanks to Taylor Rummel for edits on this article.

When you think of David Beckham, words rapidly spin around in your brain, knocking off the dust of everyday work life that bores us all.

Glamour. Allure, Razzle-dazzle. Magnificence. Appeal. Glory.

What would it be like to live the life of David Beckham, a world-wide phenom that practically represents the term "soccer superstar"?

His legacy grips us all, bewildering us to the point where we can only watch him with an expression similar to rapture and disbelief.

He is a God on the field, not quite like the monsters such as Pele or Maradona, but a behemoth in both sport and endorsement.

Early Years and Beginning

Beckham was born on May 2, 1975. A gift given to David Edward Alan Beckham and Sandra Georgina Beckham. He grew up with soccer, or in his home country, "football," as his parents were major supporters of Manchester United.

David, of course, followed his parents' passion for the team and football, knowing from the start that his dream was to become a professional player. He recalls that his teachers would often inquire what his goal in life was, or what he hoped his future occupation would be.

Naturally, he replied "I want to be a footballer." Feeling it was a joke, they asked again, querying "No, what do you really want to do, for a job?" as if being an athlete to pay the bills was a preposterous belief.

His answer the second time was identical to the first answer, because, as he remembers, that was the only thing he ever wanted to do.

As a kid, he played for a local team, the Ridgeway Rovers, one of the three coaches being his father. Later in 1990, after a two-year stint playing for the Brimsdown Rovers, he was awarded the Under-15 Player of the Year.

In the year after in 1991, he signed a Young Training Scheme (YTS) contract with Manchester United, which led him to move up to Manchester to continue his academic education—while also beginning his footballing education with the club's expert youth coaches.

Professional Football/Soccer

Manchester United

Beckham perhaps fulfilled his biggest ambition in becoming a member of the Manchester United football squad in 1992, as a pupil and amateur of the game. While he was still learning, he continued to thrive despite little experience as the team won the FA (Football Association) Youth Cup in 1992.

Years later in 1995, Beckham finally crawled to the top of the organization, making his Premier League debut, the sole powerhouse professional league around in England.

He played midfielder for the formidable and controversial MU gang, which was a big fat target for criticizers and fans to shout "down with youth" from the top of a mountain. A mountain which would soon be summited by the young, persevering team.

After falling 3-1 to Aston Villa to further elevate the critics' intolerance of the team, the club went on a streak which was supported by drive and fresh, raw talent. They won their following five matches, going on to finish the year with both the Premier League championship and the FA Cup, which is commonly known as winning "The Double."

Beckham cemented himself as a household name after scoring on an amazing kick in the 1996-97 season, which was shot from the halfway line.

Keep in mind that a football field is in the neighborhood of 100 (minimum length) and 110 metres (maximum length), meaning that Beckham shot the ball from a range that stretched 50-60 metres.

The relationship between Beckham and team manager Alex Ferguson, who backed him up when Beckham was face-to-face with the vitriol and wrath of impatient fans the previous season, was sliding down a dangerous hill during the early years of 2000.

This had something to do with his personal life, which began to involve photo shoots and plans for his latest football boot design and started to drift from soccer all day every day to a business. One that he loved yes, but one that he had to treat professionally and couldn't let bias nor passion interfere with money.

Beckham, during the 2002 season, suffered an injury during a game against Argentina. There's been accusations fired toward Aldo Duscher, the player who brought down Beckham, that allude to the possibility of the injury being set up on purpose, as Argentina was scheduled to play England in the World Cup that year.

While United did not reach the Premier League title that year (a championship they won the year earlier), Beckham agreed to sign a three-year deal with the team in May of 2002.

Like many renowned athletes, the quote "all good things must come to an end" is rarely not used. Also like other distinguished athletes, that end was not pretty.

In the 2002-03 season, Beckham was out with injury and, upon returning, was unable to earn his place back to his position. And, unfortunately for both MU and Beckham, the fury and disgust Ferguson and Beckham had for each other risen to such a level to the point where the couldn't stand each other.

Witnesses claim that Ferguson threw (or kicked—that part of the incident is not certain) a boot at Beckham, and struck him directly above the eye. The cut required multiple stitches.

Real Madrid

While United desired to ship Beckham out to FC Barcelona, he changed their plans by signing a contract with Real Madrid, another soccer titan.

Beckham immediately became the heartthrob of the city, starting off on fire, scoring five times in his first 16 games with the team.

In 2007, Madrid won the Spanish La Liga title, the first championship for the team in three years.

Once again, the downfall of Beckham's Madrid career happened at the end, and this time, its ugliness was also evident and conspicuous.

Beckham's game had hit a bump in the road, and Madrid's manager decided to start the supposedly more agile Jose Antonio Reyes on the right wing, Beckham's usual spot. In the first nine matches Beckham started, Madrid lost seven.

Los Angeles Galaxy

Beckham would soon after release the news of his finalized five-year deal in which he would travel overseas to play football (now probably known as soccer to him) with the Los Angeles Galaxy. The deal was announced Jan. 11, 2007, and he was scheduled to officially become a member on the team July 1.

In a game against D.C. United, Beckham got over the anticipation of the many "firsts" that come with arriving at a new city; his first game as team captain, his first yellow card, his first start, and his first goal.

So far in his time with the LA Galaxy, things have not exactly gone swimmingly.

The Galaxy have been ousted from the playoffs, even failed to make them, Beckham has fought with injuries, and the fans haven't been pleased with his performance. He's even got into a heated rivalry with his own teammate, Landon Donovan.

However, Beckham claims he's been dedicated to the team and the fans. Here's what Beckham had to say about facing pressure from the organization and fans, as he has clearly fallen short of the originally high expectations: "...What you've seen is that I've been very dedicated to the Galaxy, dedicated to the fans."

When asked about the comments Landon Donovan made about Beckham, claiming he was not giving the Galaxy 100 percent after he decided to stay in Milan further than his loan allowed him too, Beckham had this to say:

"I was given the to chance to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world. If you ask any player in any league in the world, if they were given the chance to finish the season with one of the biggest clubs in the world, they would have said 'Yes.'"

In conclusion, Beckham's soccer career, overall, has been a success.

He's played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, the Los Angeles Galaxy, and even internationally for England. Former manager and perhaps even enemy at times Alex Ferguson once had chosen these words to express Beckham's remarkable work ethic and 110 percent effort: "He practiced with a discipline to achieve an accuracy that other players wouldn't care about."

The two-time runner-up for FIFA Player of the Year, and the highest-paid soccer star in the world, David Beckham has captured the world's audience that is comprised not only of soccer/football fans, but fans of sport itself.

The man in the spotlight

While Beckham has grasped the attention of those following sports, he also has managed to get his name in the paper (or face on television) for other achievements.

He's inspired illustrious films such as Bend It Like Beckham and The Goal! series. He's written three books about his astonishing life, those being David Beckham: My Side, Beckham: My World, and Beckham: Both Feet on the Ground.

Beckham's various outstanding feats and skills bring such diversity to sports. He's shown that one single "sonic boom" that whistles past the goalie and rips through the net can transform in an instant into book and novel ideas, or even inspiration for a peer to make a movie.

He admired Michael Jordan, donning the No. 23 jersey twice in his honor.

Beckham had an astounding amount of followers; he was liable for an eye-popping $600 million in merchandise sales in his four years with Real Madrid.

David Beckham was the living, breathing example of how a person can transcend the limits of two passions.

Because whether it was the scream of "GOOOOALLLL!!" from an emphatic announcer, or the shriek of "I LOVE YOU DAVID!!!" from an adoring fan, Beckham always knew he was on top.

Cue the Spotlight on David Stern...

Graham — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 21:08:17 -0400

With a whirlwind of steroid speculation in baseball, Rashard Lewis shocked the world by testing positive for a form of PEDs.

The Magic forward had been taking an over-the-counter substance called dehydroepiandrosterone, commonly known as DHEA. He's told the media that he was unaware that the product, which he purchased near the end of last year's NBA season, contained DHEA.

An NBA source told the Orlando Sentinel that Lewis had actually failed a test during last year's playoffs, and demanded a re-test after being shocked by the initial result.

A little background on the drug from the Sentinel's story (same piece linked above):

Dr. Gary Wadler, Chairman of the World Anti-Doping Agency's Prohibited List and Methods Sub-Committee, said whether or not DHEA is categorized as a steroid depends on the governing body. The NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Agreement classifies DHEA as a steroid.

"DHEA is a compound which converts to androstenedione, Andro from the McGwire days, and that in turn converts into testosterone," Wadler said. "...It is very widely used in supplemental and complementary kind of medicines and it's in food stores."

As for DHEA's performance-enhancing capabilities, Wadler said the drug is "not very effective."

Well, the punishment for Lewis' actions—either accidental or deliberate, from what I can find, that has not yet been determined—seems to indicate that the violation wasn't very serious, as he was suspended for the first 10 games of the season.

All in all, Bud Selig must have gotten up this morning feeling both refreshed and fortunate; for once, there was a scandal involving testosterone boosters that didn't put a burden on him.

No, it was his fellow commissioner, David Stern, who now the tricky task of veering all the eyes on the NBA straight back to the MLB.

Meanwhile, Stern woke up dreary-eyed and miserable, regretting the wide grin that spread over his face as he shook the hand of Mr. Lewis on the night of the 1998 NBA Draft.

And it's not only Stern who's worried. I, an avid basketball fan who stuffs the fact that 'roids are a major part of the MLB in sulking baseball fans' faces, am now wondering if this will spin off course and develop into a Manny Ramirez "I didn't know what I put into my own body" situation.

Yes, that's quite a nightmare considering how minor the circumstances are right now, but both the media and fans of other sports will have a field day pointing fingers, leaning back, and chuckling at us living in the basketball universe.

Then again, they could just make fun of Rashard Lewis too.

After all, it was Lewis who made the mistake, not us. While it's an everyday thing for us to throw our head back and gulp down our daily vitamins, it's different for those in the professional leagues.

Lewis should've known better than to just buy the pills without any concern, or question, and put it into his system, especially with all the testing and controversy.

Although it hasn't yet been too big a deal in basketball, it was only a matter of time before the hammer came down and those using were plucked out of the bunch. Two wrongs don't make a right baseball junkies. Remember that.

LeBron James shares the same opinion as I:

"It's unfortunate," James said. "I know Rashard really well and I know he's not that type of guy who would do anything to get the upper edge on another player, that's first and foremost.

“You just have to use great judgment. We have guys with us every day who can find out for you if it [substance] is banned or not banned by the NBA. A mistake by him."

Great judgment indeed. Though we shouldn't play the blame game and have the shots all go in Lewis' direction. Remember Nowitzski's "significant other?"

Yeah. Not a good path to leave footsteps in Dirk.

Still, Rashard shouldn't be let off the hook just because he has fellow wrongdoers. I continue to question his being "dumbfounded," which was prompted by the outcome of the test. He was caught with his hand in the cookie jar.

Or in this case, the medicine cabinet.

And, lamentably for us, we start a new beginning in the NBA. A dark one that is. One where fans declare war against steroids and other forms of PEDs. One where NBA stars will begin to shock us one after the other.

But what will he do? Will 10 games spiral into 20? 30? 40? A Manny-esque 50?

And probably the most important question, when will anyone ever admit their crime and move on? The saga won't end unless players can be open about their PED use.

One where, after awhile, the bad news won't induce jaw-dropping and eye-popping reactions anymore.

An era that we'll have to fight through. One where Rashard’s experience eventually becomes just a learning experience for up-and-comers in the future.

One where the spotlight will be trained firmly on Mr. David Stern.

It will be a battle, a battle which will eventually reveal the players' true colors. Would they rather cover it up and cause on-going drama for their team, or would they sacrifice a bad mark on their reputation for the betterment of the team's chemistry?

"Take five" is over, David Stern.

Let's see what lies beneath those sparkling glasses and "on-display" eyes.

Work needs to be done, action must be taken. If not soon, later will lead us down from the dark passages we just explored to the pitch-dark cellars of disappointment and sorrow.

The Man Behind the Rings: The Story of Bill Russell, Pt. 2

Graham — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 20:11:35 -0400

A big shout-out to my buddy Leroy Watson, for helping me out loads with this article. Couldn't have done it without him.

"...but the C's were finally overcome by Chamberlain's Sixers, losing in just five games in the Eastern Conference Finals.

How did Russell regain his dominance over the NBA? And what can we learn upon closer inspection of his mind and attitudes towards life?

Stay tuned for the answers to those questions and more in part two..."

The 1967-‘68 season also had its ups and downs. Martin Luther King Jr. had been shot in a brutal, cold-hearted assassination.

With a number of the Sixers and Celtics players being African-American, the two teams started the Eastern Conference Finals series seeming as if they were shell-shocked. The Celtics didn't wake up out of their foggy slumber until they noticed they had fallen behind, three games to one.

Being coached by Russell, the C's became the first team in NBA history to climb back from a 3-1 deficit. Riding on momentum, the Celtics again won the championship, this time playing against the Los Angeles Lakers.

The 1968-‘69 season, despite being Russell's last, was undeniably the big man's most memorable in my mind. Russell was somewhat slowed by depression with the Vietnam war taking place, Robert F. Kennedy being murdered, and reports of his marriage also going south.

He was diagnosed with "acute exhaustion." However, his resilience was on display that year as he bounced back to average 9.9 ppg and 19.3 rpg.

This was another display of Russell's heart. Despite feeling that there was no purpose in playing basketball anymore, he did not let the multiple tragedies get him down for a long period of time. He propelled his team to victories, and squeezed out of yet another tight jam.

In other words, just Bill Russell being Bill Russell—the winner.

In the ever famous "balloon game," the Celtics were in a sense, David, while the Los Angeles Lakers were Goliath.

LA had acquired Wilt Chamberlain to place beside Jerry West and Elgin Baylor, an offensive trio that would leave a lesser team quaking in fear.

Not Bill Russell and his resilient Celtics.

Before the final game of the series, the Lakers' owner, Jack Kent Cooke, basically predicted a Lakers win by putting celebratory balloons up in the rafters secured by a machine that would let them fall seconds after the game ending buzzer (if LA won).

Russell used this as inspiration for his team, and sure enough, they fought back to win the series. The balloons never fell.

The Lakers came in heavily favored over the C’s, who just did manage to scrape into the playoffs as the No. 4 seed in the East.

Jerry West lit the Celtics’ perimeter defense up for 38 PPG in the series, and was named Finals MVP. . . in a losing cause, the first (and only) time in NBA history that’s happened.

The Celtics became the very first team to win a Game Seven on the road, giving Bill Russell his 11th championship in 13 years—more rings than fingers.

In a way, Bill Russell had the power to fulfill or crush dreams for another player. Many times, the crushed dreams were the ones handed to the fans, players, and management of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Lakers’ forward Rod "Hot Rod" Hundley commented, "If we played Boston four on four, without Russell, we probably would have won every series. The guy killed us. He's the one who prevented us from achieving true greatness."

And here is, in my mind, the biggest reason why Bill Russell gave Wilt's team a great deal more trouble that Wilt gave in exchange. Russell had the passion, the want. He couldn't stand the bitter thought of losing to Wilt. It probably disgusted him.

Russell could speak to his team in a more fervent way. Wilt had to think long and hard about his pregame preparations; but for Russell, it was merely impulsive, second nature. Russell could give more riveting speeches to hype his team up, more exciting pep talks.

In return, Russell's team rarely let him down. They didn't often fail in performing up to his high bar. This brings me to a point that's long overdue to be made:

Bill Russell is, unquestionably, the greatest winner in the history of American professional sports. In 13 historic years, Russell won an unprecedented 11 titles. As a player he won nine, as a player-coach he won two more.

He not only gave himself a chance to hold up a Larry O'Brien trophy, but others with lesser talent than he had. He made others better, a rare quality in a center, usually only found in a guard or sometimes a small forward.

He was everyone and everywhere on the court. He was the barbarian he needed to be down low, but he also graced the court with a balletic fluidity, something that set him apart from any other big man.

Russell believed in intimidating and frightening your opponents; standing up and battling in the face of fear was to win morally.

Russell gave his thoughts on blocking shots with this quote: "The idea is not to block every shot. The idea is to make your opponent believe that you might block every shot."

But don’t sell him short as merely a physical specimen; Russell also had a great mind. He played the game mathematically, as many other greats do.

Russell said in an interview with the non-profit educational entity, Academy of Achievement, "My coach and I -- I call Red Auerbach 'my coach' -- his background was math. We used to talk all the time about the game and life and things, but mostly equations.

“When you think about the game of basketball, it's played in a cube. There are boundaries: floor and ceiling, left, right, back and forth. And the other confinement is time. So what you do within those boundaries with the allotted amount of time is where the game is."

What baffles me and I'm sure many others is that, if some fans love to see run-‘n’-gun type games, what's going through their heads when players are doing all the little things that culminate in a basket? Do they take time to notice?

Setting screens, moving without the ball, and playing tough, pesky defense are all things Russell mentions when talking about aspects of the game outside of scoring. It's about doing your job correctly. As he points out, a regular player can be just as effective as a superstar if he completes his or her assigned task on the court.

If your job is to set a screen so one of the hot hands on your team can knock down a jumper, you've just made a major contribution, resulting in two or three points. Russell merely acknowledging that immediately makes him an attractive student of the game.

He also goes on to make this profound observation to a reporter: "I used to break it down. There are 48 minutes in a game. It takes a second -- a second-and-a-half, maybe two seconds -- for a three point shot. And if you add up all the shots taken in a game -- free throws don't count because the clock stops -- but if you take all the seconds added up shooting and rebounding it comes to about three minutes.

“Now out of a 48-minute game three minutes are concerned with shooting and rebounding. What is going on the other 45 minutes?"

Russell then gives the answer, "A whole bunch of things!", showing his wit—and refusing to give away all his secrets for free!

Russell was able to analyze the game while he was actually playing it, an enormous advantage for him and the Celtics. That his mind worked so quickly is astounding.

He also gave himself credit for his basketball I.Q., and overall intelligence. The big man once remarked, "Concentration and mental toughness are the margins of victory."

That's who—and what—Russell was. That's what the core of Celtic exertions were as well. They believed team play could conquer anything, and that selfishness would only destroy the team aspect of the game.

Russell was an extremely hard worker, too. He once said "Durability is part of what makes a great athlete." He wasn't all talk either. Russell was on the court, on average, 42.3 minutes his whole career.

That’s 88-percent of the minutes he could have possibly been on court, all the while battling behemoths like Wilt Chamberlain, Willis Reed, and Nate Thurmond.

John Taylor, a journalist, once described the scholarship offer to USF as a turning point in Russell's then poor way of life, as basketball was obviously a way to escape the crude racism and trouble and hardship dealt due to poverty. Russell seized that opportunity as if it was a blessing from God.

It seems to me, after researching the big man, that Russell was the kind of guy that always snatched the first opportunity handed to him. He was smart enough to know he wasn't going to get many offers, if any at all, but you could also deem him impatient.

For subtle yet understandable reasons, I think this is exactly why Russell was a great rebounder. He wouldn't wait for anyone else to do the work for him. He had his eyes set on ripping down the ball, and the basket if he had to.

Russell was grateful for each ball he recovered, and wasn't about to turn it over like it was no big deal. He held the ball tightly until he made a precise outlet pass, as if it was his baby. He certainly wasn't careless.

He's battled through great obstacles, looking adversity in the face and resisting the temptation to just give up, especially after he was given the challenge to cross a rocky road when he was diagnosed with acute exhaustion.

He is a five-time MVP-award winner and was named to the All-NBA team 12 times. His jersey was retired by the Celtics in 1972, and he is a member of the NBA's 50 greatest players, a list compiled on the league's 50th anniversary.

Bill Russell also changed the way basketball was played. As mentioned in the article, he created a new style of defense, which started help D. He was a big part in starting the movement in basketball where athletic players began to become favored over natural basketball players.

His unbelievable shot-blocking skills, and hustle to get back up and down the court is now the way the game is played today by big men. Where do you think guys like Kevin Garnett, LeBron James, and Tim Duncan developed their type of aggressive nonstop defensive play from?

Jerry West laid it all down for us in this short, simple statement:

"If I had a choice of any basketball player in the league, my No.1 choice has to be Bill Russell. Bill Russell never ceases to amaze me."

Bill Russell resorted to basketball when it seemed he had nowhere else to turn. He ignored hateful comments of racism and had his eyes set on becoming a better basketball player.

It’s the players who followed Russell that made the game what it is today. Players following in his footsteps give young kids aspiring to be professionals the drive and passion required to survive in today's sport.

But no one, NO ONE, will ever come remotely close to the mark Bill Russell left not only on basketball, but on life.

The Man Behind the Rings: The Story of Bill Russell, Pt.1

Graham — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 21:00:29 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17

A big shout-out to my buddy Leroy Watson, for helping me out loads with this article. Couldn't have done it without him.

Bill Russell has had an unreal impact on the game of basketball. He's one of the most outstanding players to ever touch the court. But, contrary to most beliefs, that's a realization mainly in the minds of players that were put up against him.

Russell has a long list of fascinating tales, some that even bewilder the most studious of fans. Russell is up there with the likes of athletes such as Muhammad Ali and Ted Williams—the exciting adventures, exhilarating memories, and nonstop drama.

He was the best, in my opinion, when it comes to intangibles. Russell gave it his all and received some of the best awards you can get in basketball in return.

Early Years

Bill Russell was born in West Monroe, Louisiana. He, his mother, and father all lived there until Bill reached the age of eight. Russell, as an infant, had been riddled with sicknesses and was forced to fight through a number of ailments.

The Black community in West Monroe was separated from the rest of the town, and the Russell clan was forced to endure times of calamity because of racism.

For example, Russell's father was once waiting for service at a gas station, only to find out that he'd been put on hold by the management until all the white customers had been taken care of.

He, surprisingly, is more overlooked than most believe. His stories of perseverance and resolution often go unnoticed and settle in with the dust that is the neglected tales of so many basketball legends.

When Russell's father had finally got fed up with the staff, he felt he should try to leave and find another gas station which would serve him more suitably.

However, the gas station he was currently being waited on forced him to remain there and wait for his turn. He was actually held at gun point, and the man holding the firearm threatened to kill him if he decided to leave.

Russell's family, along with many other Blacks that resided in West Monroe, moved to Oakland, CA, where Russell spent the rest of his childhood living in project homes.

In 1946, the Russell family had a tragedy on their hands. Russell's mother, the beloved Katie Russell, caught a severe case of the flu, which eventually led to her passing.

Russell then became a dedicated student in honor of her death, being aware that his education was near and dear to her heart. But, despite the efforts, Bill's grades were falling, likely a result of the sadness and pain that was caused by his mother's death.

Russell also spent a great deal of time on the basketball court with his brother Charlie Russell. This may also explain why his grades suffered, as he was trying to balance two important things at once.

Getting Noticed

Players and fans of today's game basically know his name and that he won a lot of titles.

However, as his game started to develop and he began to grow used to his body, Russell became a smooth, flowing player. He had good hands, and was a decent dribbler for his position.

Russell was not a highly recruited player, at all. His still somewhat clutz play wasn't appealing to most scouts. It wasn't until USF's Hal DeJulio attended one of Russell's high school games that he was finally noticed.

DeJulio's first impression on Russell wasn't a good one, as the center's offensive game wasn't nearly polished, and he reportedly had "atrocious fundamentals." Luckily, DeJulio saw tremendous potential because of Russell's feel and instinct for the game, especially in crunch-time.

He was also a sensational jumper. He held the record for his high school's high jump, until singer Johnny Mathis broke the school's record. Although he was never recognized for his skills early on, Russell had always been an amazing athletic specimen.

Russell proved to be a hard worker, vastly improving his game in his time at USF. As a member of the USF basketball program, Russell forced himself to endure intense, rigorous, and most of all, perpetual workouts.

And that was when Russell began to mold into the HoFer he was to become during his Celtics years. When Russell had a work out schedule placed in front of him, he didn't reject it. When he finally realized what it would take to become the player he wanted to be, he didn't shove it away. Russell began pushing himself, and accepted the test gratefully.

Russell had been eyed as one of the first players to utilize the blocked-shot aspect of the game, using it as one of his main mechanisms of defense. With his long arms and tall, powerful legs, he was able to rise above those with the ball and pound it straight back to the ground. Unless you were as tall, agile, or talented as the big man, it was unlikely that you were going to score in the post.

Russell developed into such a defensive savage because he had the sense and confidence of a winner. He wasn't presumptuous or cocky, but from the way Russell played in the clutch, he had this aura that glowed "winner." He refused to lose. He had his eyes set on his team coming out victorious. He didn't care if he was the superstar or the scrappy garbage man who averaged five valuable points a game down low on put-backs.

Racism was still very much a part of sports in the span of years Russell played for the Dons. Bill and his Black teammates were a common bulls-eye for racial slurs and insults.

In Oakland, Russell attended McClymonds High School. In junior high, Russell was cut from the school’s basketball team. Fortunately, he just barely made the cut as a sophomore for his Junior Varsity team.

Once, the USF team was in Oklahoma City for a 1954 All-College tournament. All hotels in the city refused to let Russell and any other Black teammates set foot in their hotels.

To fight back against the cruel actions of the OKC hotels, the whole team ended up staying in a dormant college dorm.

However, if this was a way to stay out of trouble, Russell's father welcomed it. “I had to leave them alone a lot,” Russell’s father Charles said. “But they never got into trouble. They were always at the playgrounds instead of running the streets.”

Russell later reflected on the experience, saying that it helped him become solid as a rock when targeted in racial situations. "I never permitted myself to be a victim," he said.

In the closing days of Russell's college career, Russell had the choice of joining the Harlem Globetrotters' exhibition squad or declaring eligible for the 1956 NBA Draft. Globetrotters' owner Abe Saperstein approached Coach Woolpert about the opportunity, but prevented Russell from ever hearing the conversation.

After assistant coach Harry Hanna became aware of the steaming Russell, he tried to amuse him with jokes while they both sat out of the meeting. However, Russell was still raging (and probably wasn't even listening to the corny jokes), and finally concluded that "if Saperstein was too smart to speak with (me), then (I) was too smart to play for Saperstein."

Those were exactly the type of experiences that made Russell as tough on the court as he was on the sidewalk in a city. Russell didn't exactly keep quiet, but he also realized that it's better to shut up the pessimists on the court rather than face-to-face. It was his way of saying, "I am who I am. You can't stop me."

Entering the NBA

At the end of his college career, Russell's averages consisted of 20.7 ppg and 20.3 rpg. Russell was now headed on to his NBA career. But first, he had to be drafted.

Heading into his NBA career, Russell seemed to have a tough attitude to assess. While he wasn't necessarily rowdy, he had a way of questioning decisions and being a pest about it. He was hardheaded, something that sometimes prevented him from seeing the other side of things until it was too late.

That was also what made Russell such a great leader. His “voice” was in his play on the court, showing by example and expecting the same from his teammates. He was the 1950s-60s precursor of Kevin Garnett, especially in the locker room (not so much on the court, where Russell was intense but quieter).

Russell became one of the many greats that the Celtics acquired in the 1956 Draft, others being Holy Cross star Tommy Heinsohn and guard K.C. Jones. Boston grabbed him via trade which sent the famous and coveted center Ed Macauley to the St. Louis Hawks, a team the Celtics would later face in multiple NBA Finals battles.

After returning from his showing on the U.S. Olympic basketball team as captain, Russell began his 13-year career with the Boston Celtics.

In just his rookie season, Russell had established himself as a formidable rebounder. He averaged a league-leading 19.6 rebounds per game to go along with 14.7 points per game.

Russell became the defensive force needed in the Celtics lineup. With lightning quick feet and hustle, Russell had spawned a completely new style of defense, now called “Help D.”

He played like he always did when in his early years—clumsily, awkwardly, as if there wasn't a flow. Russell seemed to break the game up too much. Start, and stop, and start, and stop.

Russell began his journey as both a winner and superstar in that season. He jumped into the NBA game with many goals and objectives, and didn't waste any time getting his name in the papers.

Russell immediately became a terrorizing defender, to be later known league-wide. He also put up fine scoring numbers, likely the result of ridiculous rebounding numbers, which enabled him to score a bulk of his points on put-backs and tip-ins.

In the subsequent season, Russell's game reached another bar in the ladder. He was voted the MVP of the 1957-58 season.

This is when Russell made the leap from exciting rookie to proven All-Star. Although he wasn't a member of the All-NBA first team, he was elected MVP in just his second season, which means he was not only vital to his team on the court, but off it as well. I'm guessing this is the moment when Russell started to take the "leader path" in his career.

The Celtics yet again had a strong season, reaching the Finals but this time losing to the same St. Louis Hawks team in six games.

The following season, Russell continued his growth as a player, averaging 16.7 points and a monstrous 23 rebounds. The Celtics again succeeded in getting to the Finals, and swept the Minneapolis Lakers 4-0, which gave Russell two titles in three years.

Russell and the Celtics took another step closer to a dynasty. Russell met his match in terms of uncontested dominance in Wilt Chamberlain, but still had a strong season.

In that same rookie year, the Celtics had reeled in their first ever NBA title, prevailing against the St. Louis Hawks in seven nail-biting games.

While Chamberlain was undoubtedly more offensively talented player, no one could play defense like Russell. Chamberlain's Philly Warriors team ran into a roadblock in Russell's Celtics in the 1959-60 year when making a stop at the Eastern Conference Finals.

Luckily for both Boston and Russell, it was their final stop, as the C's disabled the Warriors in six games, winning the series 4-2.

The beginning of the Russell-Wilt rivalry didn't get off to a good foot for Chamberlain, and it would stay that way for a good while. Even though Chamberlain was, on paper, much more talented, he doesn’t match up close to Russell as a mentor and team director.

Chamberlain averaged fewer points when playing against Russell (28.7 ppg against Russell, compared to his 30.1 career average against all other centers), but more rebounds (28.7 rpg, averse to his career average of 22.9). However, there is a good explanation.

The Celtics were one of the first teams to use the fast break efficiently and consistently, as opposing teams would commit turnovers allowing Boston to get easy baskets. Russell also gave the Celtics an instant change from defense to offense, blocking shots to himself and rifling pinpoint outlets to his sprinting teammates. This was brand new to the NBA.

The dominance Russell held over Wilt victory-wise could mean one of two things: one being that Russell not only contained Wilt—to an extent; it's hard to fully shut down one of the greatest of all-time—but the rest of Wilt's team as well.

Legendary Knicks coach Red Holzman once said "One-on-one, [Wilt] would've murdered Russell and everyone. But playing five-on-five, Wilt was consigned to a specific role because of his ability to score so easily, whereas the Celtics fit Russell into their team concept better."

The Celtics kept cruising: to a 57-22 regular season record, and winning their fourth championship in just five years. In the 1961-62 season, Russell averaged 18.9 points and 23.6 rebounds, and Russell's Celtics became the first ever team to win 60 games in a single season, and won their fifth consecutive title.

When in that year's Finals, they faced a tough Laker team, who boasted stars such as Elgin Baylor and Jerry West. However, Russell held hold down Boston's ship to win in seven games.

In the year Bob Cousy retired and John Havlicek joined the C's (1962-63), Russell put up prodigious average of 16.8 ppg and 23.6 rpg. Russell also accomplished yet another feat in his career, earning his fourth regular season MVP award. The Celtics defeated the Lakers in six games to win the NBA championship yet again.

In the 1963-64 season, Russell had averages of 15 points and an astounding 24.7 rebounds. It was his best rebounding campaign ever. That season, the C's came out on top to polish off the new team in San Francisco, the Warriors, led by the Big Dipper, Chamberlain, to nab another banner.

This was an amazing rebounding season for Russell, and made a huge difference. Wilt averaged 17.4 rpg, 7.3 less than what Russell racked up. While Russell was the lesser scorer, the additional rebounds sapped Wilt’s second chance points and added to Russell’s.

In the ensuing season, Russell's Celtics won 62 games. Russell averaged 14.1 ppg and 24.1 rpg, capturing the league's rebounding title for a second time in two years. The Celtics and Russell again shut down the team Chamberlain played for, this time the Philadelphia 76ers, and went on to win their seventh title in the "Havlicek stole the ball! It's all over! Johnny Havlicek stole the ball!" season.

In 1965-66, Russell's play started to decline, averaging 12.9 ppg and 22.8 rpg. But, the Celtics still managed to win a ring that year against the Los Angeles Lakers in seven games. It was their eight consecutive championship, a record that still stands to this day.

Here was the window of opportunity for Wilt to avenge himself against Russell. If he wanted to win, the time was now, as you can see in Russell's numbers in the next few paragraphs. Bill was gradually slowing down.

Coaching

In the 1966-67 season, legendary coach Arnold "Red" Auerbach announced his retirement. Russell then accepted the position as a player-coach after Red's first three candidates rejected the offering.

He was the first black coach ever in NBA history.

Wouldn't it be only logical for Wilt's team to direct more of the pressure down low under the basket so 1) Wilt could score countless times on second chances, and 2) Russell would likely be worn down near the end of the game?

In perhaps one of the more emotional moments in Russell's career, he swallowed the hard loss by entering Wilt's domain (Philly's locker room) to shake hands and simply remark, "Great."

Afterward, Russell led his grandfather into Boston's locker room. As the two looked around the clubhouse, they saw the black Sam Jones and white John Havlicek rinsing off in a shower. Russell looked down to see him sobbing tears of joy.

Russell finally asked for an explanation, after first being speechless. The grandfather said he was beyond proud of Bill, because he was the coach of a team where both blacks and whites could get along, and most importantly win, in peace.

Russell averaged 13.3 ppg and 21 rpg that year, but the C's were finally overcome by Chamberlain's Sixers, losing in just five games in the Eastern Conference Finals.

How did Russell regain his dominance over the NBA? And what can we learn upon closer inspection of his mind and attitudes towards life?

Stay tuned for the answers to those questions and more in part two...

Stephon Marbury: A Man Who Found His Way in the City of Boston

Graham — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 10:10:25 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17.

Thanks to Leroy Watson for minor help with this piece.

"With the fourth pick in the 1996 NBA Draft, the Milwaukee Bucks select Stephon Marbury, from Georgia Tech."

After hearing those words, Stephon Marbury slowly rose from his seat, smiled, and walked toward David Stern's podium, soaking up his first few seconds of glory in the NBA. And from that moment on, you knew Stephon "Starbury" Marbury was going to be a special player.

You can admit it, you can deny it. But I know that all of you saw something within Marbury you don't see often.

The explosiveness, the ability, the passion, the love, the drive.

In his early days with the Timberwolves, he made a name for himself alongside his young, tenacious teammate, Kevin Garnett. Ever heard of him? The two of them took the league by storm, leading Minnesota to two consecutive playoff appearances in 1997 and 1998.

In the '97 season, Marbury averaged 15.8 points, 7.8 assists, and a steal per game. In the year after, Marbury's stardom began to blossom, as he averaged 17.7 points, 8.6 assists, and 1.3 steals per game.

His controlling of the Wolves on the court was admirable. Marbury's initiative in the first couple of seasons with Minny showed promise as a future superstar. However, that was when Marbury had his first of many bumps in the road.

Due to extreme differences between the point guard and the team's management, he was traded to the New Jersey Nets, where he made an attempt at building a bigger name for himself.

Marbury continued to grow, although averaging the same point average as the previous year (17.7). He put up 9.3 assists per game, as well as posting 1.6 steals per contest. In his years with New Jersey, Marbury made the leap from rising star to proven All-Star. In 2000, he was named to the All-NBA third team.

Because of the team's failure to make the playoffs, the Nets decided to pull the trigger on a Marbury-Kidd deal, which dropped Marbury in the city of Phoenix, where he would play as a Sun for the next three years.

As a member of the Suns, Starbury made the All-Star team yet again and led a young Suns squad to the playoffs in 2003. Despite their tremendous talent and potential, they lost to a powerhouse Spurs team in just the first round. As a result, Phoenix felt it was time for Marbury to go, and he was on the move again, this time being shipped to New York.

This was when Marbury endured something along the likes of a torturous couple of seasons. Marbury's road to success had been roadblocked; his vehicle was forced to come to a complete stop. If it weren't for his stubbornness and badgering the Knicks to leave the Big Apple, Marbury likely would have gone in reverse.

He and coach Isiah Thomas had been served their share of trouble and hardship. The two had been in numerous spats, and the situation had spiraled downward.

It was, literally, like cake for the media, who had unfortunately blown up the argument to the point where it was practically unbearable for Knick fans, players, and the whole organization.

As if matters couldn't have gotten any worse, Marbury was placed on the Knicks' inactive list, likely because new coach Mike D'Antoni, who also had spats with Starbury when in Phoenix, wanted to spare him the humiliation.

However, just prior to a regular season game, D'Antoni thought he'd give Marbury at least the opportunity to get his name in the paper and offered him the chance to dress. Supposedly, Marbury refused.

The circumstances of the Marbury saga reached a boiling point. On Dec. 1, the Knicks shunned Marbury, as if to avoid any possibility of him causing trouble in the clubhouse. He was banned from going to any games and practices. He was ordered to stay home.

And then, the Knicks finally came to their senses. They bought Marbury out, making him a free agent just days later. He signed with the Boston Celtics.

And when Marbury made his first performance as a Boston Celtic when playing the Indiana Pacers, he received a standing ovation. While taking his first baby steps on the parquet floor, not knowing what to expect (boos or cheers), he looked up at the bright lights.

Following the bright lights, he took a look at the banners hanging from the rafters. Then, he looked down a bit, to see the ecstatic Boston fans, screaming and applauding the very same man who was run out of New York several hours before.

A man who was unaccepted as a basketball player, or as a person, by the *bleeping* Knick fans from New York (this is what you get for that NY—an awful New York Knicks team. How 'bout them apples?).

He tilted his head to the side, grinned, knowing he was finally home, and trotted out to his spot in the floor.

Stephon Marbury was there to help the Boston Celtics win. He was part of an inspirational gang of beat-up workhorses determined to break through adversity, despite incredibly unfortunate injuries.

Stephon Marbury was a proud Boston Celtic. And I was lovin' every single minute of it.

I loved his first shoe squeaks on defense. I loved when he pointed his finger as a way of celebrating a basket, or directing the defense while still jogging down the floor.

I got emotional when he walked to the bench, greeted by welcoming Celtics and a roar of clapping and shrieking.

I loved Marbury's poise and confidence, yet not in a way of being cocky or arrogant. He didn't know if Boston was going to win or lose, so he took it in his own hands (as much as he could—he was just a bench player) to will the C's to victory.

He did so in Game Five of the Eastern Conference semifinals facing the Orlando Magic, notching 12 points in one quarter—the fourth—to help the Celtics pull out a close one.

I loved his inconspicuous smirks and quiet laughs on the bench, as well as his loud shouts of encouragement and booming high-fives from the bench. His way of helping the C's without even dribbling a basketball—rooting them on with boundless energy—was amazing to me.

I loved how he worked hard to fit in with the team from the beginning; learning a completely different system, as well as finding his game again, must have been very, very hard for him.

Nevertheless, it was always enjoyable to see him sink a crucial three or see a bullet of sweat drip down his forehead because of the extreme efforts he was putting in on defense (this is the real Marbury...I'd say his defensive execution in Boston was exceptional compared to his original reputation).

Truth is, Stephon Marbury was perfect for Beantown. His desire to rebuild the meaning of his name, partnered with his love for his teammates, made him the perfect fit. If Kevin Garnett, and the others who went down, did not suffer injuries, I think the Marbury acquisition would have had a much bigger impact than most think.

He still has excellent ball-handling ability and a decent shot, as well as a great passing ability (one of the most underrated parts of his game). I'm sad to see he couldn't have won his first championship. I know that KG would have gladly brought home a Larry O'Brien trophy in honor of their reunion.

Marbury was once on top of the world in 1996. His story continued to be on a bright note until he entered a dark path in the years he was with the Suns, Nets, and Knicks.

But as he rolled into Boston, we all were glad to see him. In his very first game at the Garden, our love for him began to bloom.

As hard as this may be for me to say, it looks like the latest Starbury episode is coming to an end.

No, Marbury isn't officially gone yet. Still, it's inevitable that the Celtics don't have nearly enough money to sign Marbury after the Rasheed Wallace signing. And don't jump on Marbury, either—the Celtics would be seen as a team with tight pockets even to the most unselfish player in the league.

But his number doesn't have to be retired and hung on the Garden ceiling. No Hall-of-Fame introduction is needed, nor any other celebration in his name.

No, Stephon Marbury will always be remembered by me, and hopefully by everybody else in Boston.

And even though I hate to see him leave Boston, I'm glad that he was finally placed in a city he was happy to be in. Where he was seen as a figure of hope for avid Celtics fans.

Because, in the end, I just love Stephon Marbury.

Allen Iverson Pursued by Clippers: Mad Forces Collide

Graham — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 11:43:34 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17.

A day or two ago, the Los Angeles Clippers and free agent guard Allen Iverson had been linked to each other; the Clips were interested in the rolling stone.

Iverson's disastrous campaign in 2008-09 cost him what would have likely been a big contract, as teams such as the Heat and Grizzles, who continue to pursue Iverson despite other obstacles, are not willing to offer the money AI is used to receiving.

After being traded to the Pistons not far into the season, Iverson's credibility to singlehandedly lead a team on offense plummeted.

Yes, averages of 17.5 points, three rebounds, and five assists aren't too shabby.

However, when your career averages consist of 27.1 ppg, 6.2 apg, and 3.7 rpg, it's considered a bit of a drop-off. Oh, and I forgot to mention that his steals per game last year dropped from his career average of 2.2 to 1.5.

Iverson isn't that much of a chemistry guy either. In fact, just the opposite.

The Pistons went from a contender since the 2003-04 season to an eight seed, all within a day after Joe Dumars decided to ship out Chauncey Billups in exchange for Iverson. Dumars jumped the gun when he thought the Pistons weren't heading anywhere and felt a cash dump would also benefit Detroit because of the 2010 free agent class almost every mediocre squad is focusing on.

Instead, the Motor City was down in the dumps for an entire NBA season because an executive's gut told him moves had to be made.

My point is, Billups, although not being quite the explosive offensive beast Iverson is, can make a team significantly better just by turning their locker room around. Iverson, however, can destroy a team if he doesn't have the correct personalities and players around him, which is exactly what happened with the Pistons.

Iverson didn't have the co-star necessary to win a championship. (Sorry folks—especially Celtics fans—but Rasheed Wallace isn't what he used to be. Rip Hamilton either.)

He also needs a team willing to sacrifice a few shot opportunities in order for him to average 30 points, and a team stacked with players who will voluntarily sit on the bench so he can get his minutes.

In Detroit, that did NOT happen. Hamilton was upset with the management's decision to sit him to start the game, even though only a few minutes were deducted. The team did not have enough shots to go around. In short, the Pistons fell apart.

Yet, the Clippers have expressed interest in the former superstar. Even though they already have their hands full with Baron Davis. Even though they have an extremely young gang of guys—including guard Eric Gordon, who showed promise in his rookie season last year.

Who in their right mind would even THINK of signing Iverson with Gordon as one of their major role players? Gordon averaged 15-plus points last year and shot a high percentage (.456) in just his first year with a lousy Los Angeles Clippers team.

Yes, the lack of depth in terms of guards on the Clippers is conspicuous, something Iverson should be looking at (ample amount of minutes), but the concern for Gordon is just not there it seems. Sure, the Clips are looking at how his minutes will play out, but potential trouble in the locker room doesn't seem to be a focus.

The last thing LA needs is a stunt in Gordon's growth.

And what about Blake Griffin, the newest No. 1 pick, who put on quite a show in his first Summer League appearance (27 points, 12 boards)?

How do the Clippers expect to get him shot opportunities with Allen Iverson, Baron Davis, and Eric Gordon, all who play like shooting guards in a point guard body, controlling the basketball?

Or Al Thornton, who exploded in his second year to score 16.8 points and rip down 5.2 rebounds a game last year?

With those three facilitating the offense, he may disappoint from an offensive standpoint because of a decrease in shots.

B-Diddy produced the highest assists on average with 7.7 per outing. However, when you average 34.6 minutes and carry the responsibility of starting point guard, most would ask more than 7.7 dimes a game—especially from somebody of Davis' supposed caliber.

It's funny how most round up Iverson as the typical over-the-hill, selfish player who will, from what we can see, never win a championship. BUT, he still demands money and will probably end up with the kind of system that will allow him to drop 40 on a team and still lose.

I think it's safe to label Iverson's situation bizarre. But then again, that's not unusual for "The Answer."

(What a totally unfit nickname, by the way. Why call a guy "The Answer" when he can never seem to find one when it matters most—when it's time to win?)

Ah well, I guess the only thing we can do is wonder about a pathetic organization like the Clips—I'm betting what their front office is doing right about now.

Long Live the King: Putting an End to the Nonsense Surrounding LBJ

Graham — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 11:04:09 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17

Ever since LeBron James and Nike confiscated the ever popular "dunk tape," in which Xavier college player Jordan Crawford posterized the rising superstar, people have gone as far as saying that LeBron James' recent actions were "childish," and that he was acting like a baby.

Those that were already angry with James because of his decision not to attend his postgame press conference after game six of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Magic became furious when hearing about this news.

They lashed out, claiming that James was stupid to seize the video. Why? Because, in their mind, the dunk would've just been a dunk if it we could see it for what it probably was.

However, by taking away the tape, we can dream up whatever we want. We can imagine Crawford, a pretty much unknown college player until now, slamming the ball down a 24-year old phenom's throat.

We can see Crawford tearing through the lane, then emphatically slamming it down and James stumbling back in shock, while the players on the sidelines are having trouble preventing themselves from laughing.

But in reality, all it probably ended up being was a two-handed jam to shake the basket a little bit.

I think everyone understands that having a college player dunk on you doesn't take away from your ability to perform on the game's greatest stage (the NBA). It doesn't take away LeBron's "best player in the league" status. And if you don't understand, then at least LeBron James himself does.

Is Kobe Bryant going to feel any better about guarding LeBron in a crucial game because he recollects that a college player had his moment of glory at James' expense? Or how about Kevin Garnett?

Is he going to slow down the train that is his Celtics because a college player threw it down on James? Or how about Stan Van Gundy, Vince Carter, and Dwight Howard? Are they going to throw away their chance at redemption because they felt they could take it easy against the Cavs?

If you know anything, ANYTHING about the Association, you would say no to every stinkin' one of these questions.

So what's with all the "We are all non-witnesses" stuff? Sure I can see why it would be fun for those who never had a taste for James. But for it to be serious? Absolute rubbish.

Really, for those of you who never were and still aren't fans of Mr. James, I still advise you to shut up. There's some things called "determination," "fuel," and "passion." If you keep peddling this junk, James will become determined to prove you all wrong. You're only helping him do this by fueling his competitive nature and passion for basketball.

He already has a point to prove after falling to the Orlando Magic miserably in just six games even though the Magic were seen as the clear underdog. The Cavs 66-16 record last year is now seen as a fluke to most because the Cleve-town squad fell short of the expectations put on them heading into May and June.

Now you're giving James yet another reason to steamroll your team this season? Are you crazy? On multiple occasions has Ron Artest shown us that you don't make Kobe Bryant mad. So why make James, who is now seen as the better player between the two of them by the majority of NBA fans, fired up either?

That's right, you don't. If you don't want to see LBJ drop 50 on your team next season to send them home, then you might want to further defy your "urge" (although I don't really see any logic to you desperately wanting to make fun of LeBron) to shout out negative things about the King.

Because, let's be honest. James already has his engines roaring and ready to go. His Cavs acquired Shaquille O'Neal, a guy who can still average 15 and nine in 30 minutes.

Not just that, but he also gives the Cavs a key guy they didn't have last time. A guy to defend the seven footers Ilgauskas failed to cover last year, and slow them down so Cleveland doesn't have much of a post problem.

LBJ's front office also snagged his a great backup in Anthony Parker, 34, which gives the Cavaliers another veteran presence in the locker room, as well as a feared three-point gunner throughout the league. Obviously, this fear was established in his time with Toronto, where he was part of some of the best shooting teams in the league.

Get the point here?

Hopefully, or else LeBron will be the one riding high next season.

While We're in the Bleachers, They're in the Front Row... | Leroy Watson

Graham — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 10:35:42 -0400

With some of the best scribes on this site conjuring up series after series to discuss and praise fellow Bleacher Creatures/Bleacher Report issues (Saraswathi Sirigina's "The Best from the Bleachers," Taylor Rummel's and Sulayman Hussein's "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the B/R Galaxy," Leroy Watson's "Shining a Light on Under-Appreciated Writers.") I saw it as the perfect opportunity to start a series I have been putting together for some time now.

I look at B/R's greatest members and give my thoughts on their writing style and how valuable they are to this great Web site. For the first course: Leroy Watson. Enjoy it, punks.

Oh, and don't vote it POTD. Please. The reason should be pretty obvious.

See that man up there ladies and gentlemen? That fine fellow is Leroy Watson, one of Bleacher Report's most honored users out of all those that have registered since its inception in 2007.

Leroy, in just eight months here, has amassed 266 fans, which is no surprise due to his never-ending kindness and unbelievable patience with the new guys and veterans.

LW is an exceptional mentor. His passion for younger, promising composers is inspiring. He enjoys soaking in every little snippet of advice he can, only to then pass it on to his admirers and followers.

He takes troubling situations by the horns and straightens them out with his fiery drive and relentless attitude. He encourages others to grow throughout their time here on B/R. He recognizes his own talent in a humble way, but he also has that aura which glows in a way of saying "You want to be better than me," like the LeBron James commercial.

He takes more pleasure in reading and passing along other articles than his own! Shockingly, Leroy seems to take more pride in the other POTDs awarded than any of the 15 he won.

He leads a powerful army on the Internet against commenting trolls, those who choose to disparage and look down upon fellow sports authors. He never lets his guard down, always making sure to protect his fellow journalists on the Internet, by taking each insult directed toward another writer as if it were to him.

Leroy is possibly one of B/R's most powerful influences. On countless boards I see "Like Leroy Watson..." or "My favorite writer is Leroy Watson because..."

Leroy never ceases to succeed. He always puts forth his best efforts in preaching the values of the basics of literature, as well as walking them through it as if he had no other worry in the world. As if his purpose and job here was to help those in need of it.

Leroy is possibly one of the best artists I have ever read, seen, or heard about. The way he can paint a phrase or gloss over a paragraph makes you sit back and think. Leroy has an amazing gift with words. He has one of the largest and most interesting vocabularies that has ever been presented to me. In fact, whenever I read an article of Leroy's, I always have Thesaurus.com open in another tab.

He can design a sentence in ways that would arch your eyebrows. Watson has the ability to shock you because of the way he built his article. He pours his heart, soul, and mind into every click of the keyboard, so the result of every single one of his spectacular pieces is something none of us has ever seen before. He can write articles involving humor, drama, intensity, and any other feeling that comes about in everyday life.

He has a way of putting you on the edge of your seat waiting for the last two sentences of the article, but, 30 seconds later, you're rolling on the floor laughing. He forces you to turn the page, not because he himself makes you, but because his pieces are too overpowering to resist (literally...that's happened at points).

He can publish stories about any sport. He is beyond knowledgeable of any competitive game. Although he follows baseball with a closer eye, I wouldn't be surprised if he knew more about basketball, my favorite sport, than I! He can uphold a conversation about tennis, but is still on his heels and ready for a quick change in subject to debate wrestling or NASCAR.

Mr. Watson's magnificent writing ability not only shimmers in articles of his own, but others too. Many POTDs have been won with the aid of Leroy, including Rocky Getters' "July Fourth Special: How Sports Have Kept the American Spirit Alive."

He takes pride in his family. LW gets emotional in articles talking about his wife, about his mother, about his sister, and about the neighborhood in which he grew up. Watson's pieces are not just heartwarming and stirring. I'm sure the females reading his stories, line-by-line, have cried before. I'm sure some males on here have bitten their lips as if not to "embarrass themselves" by getting too soft (ugh, fine...me too).

Leroy Watson is a role model we should all look up to.

He makes Bleacher Report what it is today.

He helps others leap forward everyday.

But even with his gracious help, he's still and will always be far ahead.

Because while we're in the bleachers, he's in the front row.

Analysis of the Boston Celtics' Addition of Rasheed Wallace

Graham — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 07:42:40 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17.

As you all know, the Celtics negotiated with free agent forward Rasheed Wallace, who has verbally agreed to join the C's, and looks to sign a two-year deal for the full mid-level exception on Wednesday.

The addition of Sheed will impact the team in a way I can't yet figure out. His off-court attitude will certainly be a problem, especially if he's going to be with us for two years (unless trades or injuries change that). But it's been said that teammates love him and guys think he's a winner. After all, Kevin Garnett did hunt him down.

After the jump, analysis on the great Rasheed Wallace (kidding on the "great" part guys, no need to bash me...or is there?).

Chemistry

Rasheed Wallace, as mentioned before, will certainly be a handful. His antics in Portland/Detroit were no secret to the rest of the NBA.

Rasheed used to get T'd up literally every single game when in Portland. A Trail Blazers game wouldn't have been the same without Rasheed getting all worked up with the referees.

And with Detroit? Well, let's just say altercations involving Sheed that I can remember right away aren't that far back in history (final minutes of Game Six, 2007-08 Eastern Conference Finals).

I really can't be sure on whether or not Wallace is a problem in the locker room. His bad behavior on the court tilts to the "locker room cancer" side, but there have also been many hints of Rasheed being a great teammate.

Wallace's actions, although puzzling at the time, may be explained.

A logical solution I've come up with is that he can't stand to lose. If that was the case, then I'd be willing to put up with his partial stupidity and stubbornness.

Think about it. Wallace has had a reputation of complaining to the refs because of what he thought were bad calls. He was upset and thought his team was being cheated, so he confronted the officials (in a not so pleasant manner) whenever this occurred (which, seeing his number of technicals, was apparently many times).

Whenever Wallace lost a crucial game or elimination game, he proceeded to express his anger or frustration by either throwing towels at the cameraman, using profanity, engaging in both actions, or proceeding to blame someone else for his behavior.

Hopefully though, we Celtics fans won't have to experience this.

However, I'm not quite sure of Sheed's willingness to work. He's always been a decent defender, but has he ever endured a Kevin Garnett defensive workout? I wouldn't think so.

He's getting older and his stubborness may cause trouble for the team. I'm 100 percent sure that Sheed wants to win a championship. It's what he'll do to get one that's questionable.

With a veteran core of Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen, along with the assistance of head coach Doc Rivers, I'd say it wouldn't be hard to whip Wallace into shape before the season. But don't forget that young Rajon Rondo seems to have attitude problems himself. I don't like the idea of the C's completely focusing on Rasheed and letting Rondo go unnoticed in the clubhouse.

On-court play

Rasheed Wallace's production has gone down. That's pretty obvious to most of you. Still, a guy who can knock down the three, score on put-backs, rebound, and play decent defense is exactly what we are looking for.

A reduced amount of playing time would greatly benefit Wallace, which is what he would get in Boston as he would be playing behind Garnett. Imagine how effective Wallace would be playing 20-25 minutes off of the bench!

I can't see Sheed averaging any less than eight to 10 points and five to six rebounds. He'd likely play both the center and power forward positions. If the Celtics somehow re-signed Glen Davis or signed another big free agent, Wallace would sub in for Kendrick Perkins as well as Kevin Garnett.

He could be a deadly bench player in the Celtics offensive system. When taking Perkins' place, he'd come out to the top as the center usually does to move the ball.

But with a guy like Sheed being inserted into that system, it wouldn't be that simple for the opposing team. He could create a lot of space as he'd draw his guy out with him and clear room for the driving lanes of Pierce and Rondo. If his man didn't come out, it'd be an easy three points most of the time.

The signing of Rasheed Wallace would also help Kevin Garnett. Garnett is also in a need of a decrease in minutes, something that would take place with Wallace on the team.

But I don't think the Celtics would have reason to change things in their offensive system. Wallace's game is very similar to KG's, in his ability to hit a long jumper as well as his rebounding game (though worse than Garnett's), and variety of moves in the post.

On the court, Rasheed Wallace would significantly improve Boston's chances of winning a championship. Off-court issues should be a concern for the Celtics, though.

Then again, with Sheed, you can only take it one step at a time. Let's see how tomorrow and Thursday (the day he'll be introduced to the media) go for a start.

No Laker Fans, You're Not Champs Yet: Why 2009-10 Will Be Memorable

Graham — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 10:07:07 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17.

"Wow it's 7/02/09 and the Los Angeles Lakers have already been crowned champions!"

That was one of the first comments on Marc Stein's story two nights ago, breaking the Artest-to-LA news.

Unfortunately for the fanatics in Hollywood, that isn't the case. It isn't the case for the Boston Celtics, either—even if they are able to insert Rasheed Wallace into their already threatening frontcourt.

The Magic also aren't favorites, despite the recent addition of Vince Carter.

Nor Cleveland, even though they just patched up a hole in their game by acquiring Shaquille O'Neal.

San Antonio also will have to battle their way to the top, although they were the winners of last Thursday's NBA Draft, on top of trading for Richard Jefferson.

The Nuggets hope to build too. But that won't allow them to breeze through this season.

The fact is, the NBA is the best it's been in a while. While last season was certainly one to remember in itself, the league has already become, undoubtedly, more competitive. There are six teams, maybe more, that can hold their own against one another. Recent transactions have put them a notch above the rest of the Association, and although none of them amongst themselves are favorites, the six of them are the most likely to win a title as opposed to the other 24 teams in the NBA.

As if you hadn't guessed yet, the six are (in no particular order): the Lakers, Magic, Celtics, Cavaliers, Spurs, and Nuggets.

The C's, Cavs, Magic, Nugs, and Spurs will in no way let the Lakers come out on top once again by setting their pace to cruise control. And I'm sure every team will feel that they have a chip on their shoulder. Bryant and the Lakers, to prove that they still could win a championship even if the Celtics, Spurs, and Magic were healthy. Garnett and the Celtics, to show that the Big Three and co. are not done yet. LeBron and the Cavs, to show that last season's league-leading record of 66-16 was no fluke. And so on, and so on.

But Laker fans, apparently, have not been made aware of that. Sure the acquisition of Ron Artest makes them a feared squad, but the fact is, the Lake-show's presence had already been registered by the brains of other teams in the NBA.

Of course, you can't expect much sense out of a hyped up Laker fanbase. After just winning the championship and now having the privilege to say their team is the defending champs, they're of course going to label the Lakers immortal.

Those who bleed purple and yellow will obviously make the Lakers up to be a team they simply cannot be. They will set a bar for the Lakers which they can't live up to.

Artest will clearly make LA's defense better. An offseason with him as a defensive anchor will immediately transform them into a defensive monster. Can you imagine the possibilities with Bryant and Ron-Ron as the lead voices? Never mind Bynum and Gasol, who have seemed to toughened up some after five games with Dwight Howard.

Their offense will be great. There is no way around it. Artest, contrary to common belief, is actually an unselfish guy. Like Josh said today in the first part of his series (you can read more about it in the opening paragraph of the link I provided), Artest is one guy who enjoys seeing his teammates score because of a pass he made, rather than scoring himself.

They will have as good a locker room as any team in the league (though not better). Bryant is a strong player who does not let team issues be. He addresses them in a firm manner. Artest, though being seen as an immature player in the past, has grown mentally as well as physically, and has learned to control his excessive energy and learned to use it positively at the right time.

I don't think I need to go into detail about Phil Jackson.

But the best? The easy pick for favorites? Far from it, in my mind.

In case Laker fans haven't noticed, the Spurs, Celtics, and Cavs are all top defensive teams as well. The Magic and the Nuggets are slowly but surely developing on the other side of the court.

Every team has their own style of offense, but equally powerful at that. They have explosive players, and conservative guys, both types able to contribute scoring-wise.

And leadership? Each clubhouse is strong and sturdy, not allowing problems to ruin their championship chances.

Not only that, the front offices will look to construct their teams a little bit more in order to have a better percentage of winning before the season takes off. The Celtics are reportedly the frontrunner for Rasheed Wallace, the fancied free agent who is currently weighing options before committing to a team. Along with Kevin Garnett, Kendrick Perkins, and possibly Glen Davis, Wallace would give the Celtics an unbelievable frontcourt.

Vince Carter gives the Magic a scorer. And a good one at that. They'll likely have one of the most dangerous offenses in the league, with a backcourt of Carter and Jameer Nelson. If Dwight Howard can work on his game this season down low, I wouldn't be surprised if the Magic have the most explosive offense.

Richard Jefferson fills a void that was long needed for the San Antonio Spurs—a young, athletic small forward, with the strength to score down low and the shooting touch to launch the ball from the perimeter. They also got guys like DeJuan Blair and Jack McClinton late in the draft, two players who are capable of skyrocketing up the list of the best sleepers who entered in the 2009 draft.

The Cavs also got their hands on one of the game's best centers, Shaquille O'Neal, and didn't have to give much up at all (Sasha Pavlovic, Ben Wallace). The Cavs have needed a dominant big man for some time now, as they didn't really have a go-to guy on defense to defend the big bad seven footers in pro ball.

Denver hasn't had their name in the paper yet so far this offseason, but is expected to re-sign Chris Andersen and possibly offer a contract to other free agents available in the market.

So Laker fans, don't go rioting yet. The NBA season is still yet to come, and I'm sure your opinions will differ when we come to the midway point of NBA play.

After all, ANYTHING'S POSSIBLE!!!

Yup, Danny Ainge Is a Genius

Graham — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:44:33 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17.

I used to hate—no, DESPISE—Danny Ainge. After his deal that sent the then-admirable Antonie Walker packing, only then to sign Brian Scalabrine, it was clear to me that this guy was just not a fit for the Celtics.

Then came the 2006-07 season, a year where the Celtics not only had shameful results but left a humiliating mark on both their legendary name and Boston's fans.

And just when I thought both Ainge and coach Doc Rivers were "outta here," a meeting was arranged between Celtics star Paul Pierce and Ainge himself.

Pierce told Ainge that "he wanted to be a Celtic for life," but if the C's didn't find veteran help for him that offseason, he'd prefer leaving Beantown and heading to a contender.

Little did he know that Mr. Ainge expected a Pierce response like that, and was working on bringing that "contender team" to Boston. So, not only did Pierce get veteran help, but two superstars ready to take a big burden off of Pierce's shoulders.

In the glorious end, Paul Pierce, the Celtics, and the city of Boston won an NBA championship—an honor they'd already experienced many times over, but not for over 20 years.

And so I'm convinced. Danny Ainge is a genius. The Ray Allen trade, which was seen as a terrible, awful move, was proven brilliant by Ainge after Allen was covered in champagne at around midnight, June 17, 2008.

He gave the T-Wolves half of the Celtics' roster in exchange for Kevin Garnett, but, once again, the swap proved to be what was necessary for both Boston and Minnesota.

Then, he added player after player on to the Celtic gang just days after the Garnett trade, not stopping until the roster was perfectly complete.

The C's signed Eddie House and Scot Pollard shortly after the Garnett trade was finalized. Late August, he signed coveted free agent James Posey to a one-year deal.

The moves were seen as complements to the blockbuster deals which ended up being the splashes of the summer, but little did we know these were the deals that would give Boston a title.

After the jump, I'll talk about the specifics and go into detail about the 2007-08 Executive of the Year.

The NBA Draft

Although it may not be what comes to mind when you think of him, Ainge has a knack for drafting sleepers. Kendrick Perkins was the 27th name called in the 2003 Draft, and was headed for Memphis.

But, Danny Ainge stepped in and traded for Perkins, who is now one of the game's best defenders and still has a strong-but-unpolished offensive game.

If he can work on a short jump shot, look for Perkins to be averaging 10 points and 10 rebounds, along with three blocks per game.

Perkins has unbelievable strength, as well. He did an excellent job on Dwight Howard, holding him to just 16.4 points in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, whereas he averaged 20-plus points in the first round and conference finals.

He only averaged less in the NBA Finals, where Howard faced a deep Los Angeles Lakers team that included Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol.

In the 2004 NBA Draft, Ainge brought Al Jefferson, Delonte West, Tony Allen, and Justin Reed to Boston. With exception to Reed, they all have had their share of success in the league.

Al Jefferson is a future All-Star and racked up 23.1 points and 11 rebounds per game last year. Many claimed he was robbed of a spot on last year's All-Star roster.

Tony Allen put up numbers of about 15 points per game during a span in which he replaced an injured Paul Pierce in the 2006-07 season.

Allen was seen as a "rising star" during Pierce's absence, but, due to a number of injuries, was never the same after that season. Here's the initial injury...(stupid, foolish dunk):

Delonte West has been a valued member of the Cleveland Cavaliers for close to two years now. With the recent addition of Shaq, the Cavs are once again favorites to win the championship...and the offseason is not yet done.

There have been whispers of the Cavs being interested in both Ron Artest and Trevor Ariza. If they manage to reel one of them in, the already feared Cavs team would become downright scary. Delonte West may then be the first of four to win a championship.

In the 2005 NBA Draft, Ainge got Ryan Gomes with the 50th pick. Gomes turned out to be a very solid NBA player, and he is currently part of the Minnesota Timberwolves organization through the Garnett deal.

Despite his size, Gomes is an effective power forward, as he has a competent jump shot ranging from 15-20 feet. He can also play down low and give his team some solid production under the boards.

The draft prior to their 24-win season, Ainge made a deal to receive guard Rajon Rondo from the Phoenix Suns, who selected the little guy 21st overall.

Although we weren't aware of it at the time, this kid was going to be something special. I'm guessing Ainge knew a little something-something about that.

Rondo went on to become a promising player in his first year, averaging 6.4 points, 1.6 steals, 3.8 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game. It was during his second year when he was finally acknowledged and respected by the NBA's members.

He averaged 10.6 points, 1.7 steals, 5.1 assists, and 4.2 rebounds, as well as serving as one of the leaders on the Celtics' 2007-08 championship team. This year, Rondo almost averaged a triple-double in the playoffs, falling a mere .2 assists and .3 rebounds short.

The next year, Ainge snagged forward Glen Davis with the 32nd pick, which they got in exchange along with Ray Allen in the SuperSonics deal on draft night.

Davis was a fan-favorite his entering year in the Association, a highlight being 20 points against the Pistons on Jan. 5, 2008. He scored 16 of those points in the fourth quarter. Plus, who could forget this gem, which occurred in his most recent season with the Celtics?:

Perhaps one of my most favorite Ainge transactions is the deal he made to acquire Bill Walker from the Washington Wizards on draft night. Walker was chosen late in the second round, and most certainly was a sleeper as he was projected to be a lottery pick if not for his ACL surgery.

Walker didn't get much playing time his first year as a Celtic, but there's no questioning his potential as a future player. He has an exceedingly athletic ability, and is willing to work hard in order to show the world what he's got.

The Celtics also have a history of experimenting with their young guns when their second year rolls along.

And they won't change that history with Walker, either. He's expected to be used as Pierce's backup if they don't sign a free agent willing to play behind Pierce, which seems to be the case as they're currently focusing on a big man.

And so we then come to the Danny's most recent pick, Lester Hudson.

Here's what Memphian friend of mine (Leroy Watson) in his most recent article:

Hudson showed great proficiency as a baller at an early age. By the time he was 11 or 12 years old, he was playing with men much older...and more than holding his own.

He was skinny, but had fantastic handles and hops—meaning he could dribble and jump, for the uninitiated, and his instincts on the court were uncanny. He could find ways to score that were virtually unimaginable.

That's where the nickname "the Molester" came from; he would take your dignity away on the court so completely, it was if he were committing some savage crime.

(I once had the chance to play against Lester. I'm not going to lie to you; I begged off!)

There was one little problem:

Young Mr. Hudson wasn't particularly fond of going to school.

And, really, who at that age is eager to go to class? Especially a playground legend who uses a basketball as an extension of his own body?

He never graduated from junior high school.

Watson implies that the only reason he wasn't invited to attend a higher level of Division I school was because of his grades, which I'm sure you know by now were atrocious.

Watson tells us that Hudson recorded the game's (NCAA Basketball) first-ever quadruple double, scoring 25 points, ripping down 12 rebounds, dishing out 10 assists, and stealing the ball on 10 different occasions, playing 31 minutes in a blowout against Central Baptist.

Free Agents/Trades/Etc.

Ainge is the guru of free agency. Two years ago, as I mentioned, he plucked House, Posey, and Pollard out of the free agent market. House and Posey later became a big part of the Celtics' road to the Finals.

Pollard would've been just the big man we were looking for (1-2 points, 2-3 rebounds, 1 block, 5-7 minutes) if he did not suffer a season-ending injury.

The Pose-man and House were the bombers from behind the arc you'll see in highlights featuring the fourth quarter in the famous Game Four of the 2008 NBA Finals.

They were two of the league's most efficient shooters, and two of the most reliable as well (averaging a .387 three-point field goal percentage combined).

He's also mastered the art of signing guys mid-season. So far, he's brought in Sam Cassell, PJ Brown, Stephon Marbury, and Mikki Moore in the last two years the Celtics were in contention for a ring.

Stephon Marbury literally won the Celtics Game Five of the Eastern Conference semis against the Orlando Magic, scoring 12 points in the fourth quarter in the 92-88 victory.

Sam Cassell was also an excellent pickup. In one of his first games with the C's, he knocked down the game-winning bucket against the San Antonio Spurs on the road.

Garnett wouldn't come to the Boston Celtics during their abysmal 24-58 showing in 2006-07. "Yeah well, how 'bout if we add sharpshooting Ray Allen to our team, hotshot?" says Danny Ainge. I guess it worked. Ainge somehow was patient enough with Garnett to guide him to Boston baby-step by baby-step.

Just recently, Rasheed Wallace identified the San Antonio Spurs and Orlando Magic as his desired employers.

Well, due to Garnett and Ainge's nonstop, probably annoying phone calls, Sheed folded and listed the Celtics as another possible team.

The Celtics were the first one to offer him a contract. We're waiting on his response.

Go figure.

Plus, on top of all that, Ainge can put up one heck of a smokescreen. Remember when it was rumored that he was going to ship Rajon Rondo out of town? He almost made me pee my pants.

So yeah, I'd say Danny Ainge is a genius. How about you?

Sitting Next to the Average Fan: A Walk-Through and Reflection

Graham — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:55:27 -0400

Many of us on Bleacher Report like to consider ourselves as experts. Beyond just plain knowledgeable about our favorite team or sport.

But then there's the many fair-weather fans or simply average fans who believe that they can also uphold a sports debate without making a fool out of themselves.

Heh, that's oh so wrong. Many times have I encountered the everyday fan who approaches me and tries to challenge my Celtics-based opinions. Unfortunately for them, I'm usually able to easily ridicule them in front of their dear friends and peers. What's even worse is that I'm merely 13 years old. Well, worse for them, at least. To me, it's a bit humorous.

It sounds like bragging, but I'm sure many of you have had the same experience.

Not only to we have to deal with the constant heckling and jeering from the fan next to us, but we also have to put up with their ignorant comments about supposed "bad calls" and "bad shots."

Well let me tell you something, bub, I don't really care if the ref slipped up and accidentally blew the whistle. I don't really care if poor you is disappointed that Yankees lost because Alex Rodriguez struck out. And I especially don't care if you think you could do better.

Here's a couple examples of stuff that just drive me insane.

I'm at a Celtics game, and it's the first match between the C's and the Orlando Magic when Kevin Garnett is not in action. The Celtics have, so far, swept the Magic. And (oh joy), there's an extremely drunk 30-year-old behind us who's trying to impress his girlfriend.

The Celtics were down 20-plus at halftime, but they've managed to come back and cut Orlando's lead to three. The ref makes a bad call and Eddie House misses a desperation shot. The Celtics lost.

Apparently, the guy behind us who I was talking about is using the ever-so-popular tactic of dropping numerous F-bombs in an attempt to impress his lady friend.

"WHAT THE F*CK!? ARE YOU F*CKIN' KIDDING ME? YOU F*CKING REF, I HATE YOU! YOU F*CKIN' LOST US THE F*CKING GAME! F*CKKK!!!!!!!!!"

Ahh, memories. The girlfriend calms him down and he stumbles down the stairs (because, as I mentioned, he was slightly intoxicated) as the girlfriend, humiliated, guides him to the exit to leave the arena.

Just before halftime of that very same game, JJ Redick had sunk a three-pointer. To make matters worse, there were some people behind us that let everyone who was sitting in the upper balcony know that they were obsessed with Redick. Immediately after Eddie Palladino, the Celtics PA announcer, bluntly said "JJ Redick, for three," a roar erupted behind us.

It was the Redick fans, who clearly had not yet noticed that Redick was not a college basketball superstar anymore and that the Celtics weren't scrimmaging Duke in the 2005-06 season. They shrieked "WE LOVE YOU REDICK! YOU'RE AWESOME! WE F*CKING LOVE YOU JJ!!"

Once again, I'm guessing that these fans were a touch over the limit in terms of alcohol. And this was just halftime.

Later in the third quarter, after Redick had knocked down one mere free throw (out of two), the men continued to blab on about Redick and how he was "godly." I'm sure you can imagine my frustration. I wanted to turn around and let them know that the blue and white uniform he was donning was a Magic uniform, not a Duke Blue Devil uniform. I wanted to inform them that Redick was a draft bust, and is likely never going to rise above the "decent player" status he still doesn't even boast.

Good times, good times.

But although the fair-weather, imbecilic, and uneducated statements can be funny and/or amusing, they can also be extremely inappropriate. Both remarks from the morons above show the fan's true oblivion toward the game of sports. If you really think about it, it's peoples' need for attention and low self-esteem that prompt these things to come about. Then again, alcohol can certainly cause this as well.

The pair of comments both have profanity in them, one thing that really ticks me off. Although I, myself, don't mind it, I care about the younger children around me. I know, weird for a 13-year-old to be saying this.

But I mean the 5-year-olds are dragged to the game by their dads, even though they end up having a blast. However, just when the kid is finally starting to warm up to the game, the parent or guardian may take him/her to the bathroom, to avoid the crude and unnecessary actions made by the many (though not all, of course) asinine so-called "adults" we have in this world.

And is that fair? Should a child of that age be deprived of one his first basketball games because of the idiotic cracks some choose to make? A basketball game that might grow into something bigger; a lifelong favorite team perhaps? A team where you'd later like to express your feelings and opinions on? Maybe on a site such as—oh, I don't know—Bleacher Report? Isn't that how you all started?

Maybe it's just me.

Maybe it's purely the fact that I'm hard to please.

I want everything perfected.

Maybe I ask too much out of this world.

But if we can't shut our mouths for the better of a child (something that most others did for us when we were that age), what can we do?

Yao Ming: The Great Wall of China Crumbling at a Fast Rate

Graham — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:44:22 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17

It was reported yesterday that Yao Ming, the Chinese basketball sensation and Houston Rockets All-Star center, has a much more severe injury than initially expected.

Ming, who has battled foot injuries for the past couple of years, went down recently during this year's Rockets' playoff run. With Yao, many people thought they could have taken down the eventual-champion Los Angeles Lakers.

Along with Ron Artest (if he re-signs), Tracy McGrady, and Yao, the Rockets' upcoming season was seen as exciting and a year that they would take a step forward.

They've always been a respected franchise and a playoff team in the Yao era, but the the window of opportunity to win a championship could be quickly closing.

The Rockets might crash and burn if Yao doesn't manage to get back on his feet (literally...kinda). That opportunity I mentioned above got the Houston fans rejuvenated and pumped up for next season.

After hearing this devastating news, the 'Kets (my new cool nickname for Houston. Like it?) may not have as many rear ends in seats as they would've liked next season.

That is, knowing that Yao will definitely be out for the bulk of the '09-10 campaign and probably the rest of his career.

Here were my quick thoughts from yesterday's article which broke the news on Celtics 17:

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but this injury is very saddening to me. Yao was a great person and a great basketball player."

And sad I am. Although he was a dominating center when healthy, something us Celtics' fans despise, Yao was always a favorite of mine. He was so soft-spoken, yet had some pretty gifted leadership qualities. He was seen as a guy who could get a firm message across without having to raise his voice (too much).

Yao, on and off the court, was also very patient with teammates. Although I'm sure he's been frustrated at times, he's not the one to transform into an angry Dirk Nowitzki or a nasty Kevin Garnett.

I probably wouldn't have a liking for KG's attitude either if he wasn't a Celtic. And Dirk? Well, he used to be fun to watch. But now? I'll save my words just so I don't get booted from this site.

Yao was also very upbeat and positive with both the fans and younger teammates. He was an inspiration to all of China (and Asia, probably), as his success here blossomed once he entered the NBA.

I never once saw him lash out during a media press conference, even though there were probably plenty of times when another player other than Yao would have.

Yao Ming was another guy who never stopped pushing forward, as well. He never gave up on the squad he was guiding and continued to be optimistic, no matter the obstacles they had to face or the circumstances they were in.

Take a look at this year for example. Although it seemed Houston's team played with more flow, they still took quite a hit when All-Star wingman Tracy McGrady suffered an injury. They not only lost a locker-room leader, but an offensive threat, as well.

However, Yao, with some help from Artest and Rick Adelman, brought the Rockets on a trip to Western Conference semifinals to play the Lakers.

They lost a tough series in seven games but continued to fight back and persevere without Tracy McGrady and, for the better part of the series, Yao Ming himself. Yao then watched from the sidelines but did everything he could to encourage and motivate his guys.

And never mind his amazing people skills, the kid had and still has some great talent on the basketball court. He can rebound very well, considering the pressure applied to the lower part of his body, and he has a natural soft touch under the basket. He was able to hit the short open jumpshot, too (.545 career field goal shooting percentage).

Yao, surprisingly because of his size, was an above-average passer as well. Although his assist numbers don't show it, he was good at dumping the ball off to open forwards on the other block when he was being guarded by multiple defenders.

I'm sure you've noticed my subtle hints that Yao is one of my favorites by now–and not only me, but fans worldwide. Basketball fans all over will slump back into their chairs and sink down lower and lower as they begin to realize the seriousness involved with this.

The fans aren't the only ones. When the Rockets drafted Ming No. 1 overall in the 2002 NBA Draft, they were ecstatic about receiving a 7'5", 296-pound basketball phenom who was ready to take the world by storm.

The team was happy knowing they'd have a monster of a player down low in a couple of years, reassured that they wouldn't have to worry about their future for the next 10 years (which would be 2012) with him as the face of the franchise.

Now? They're praying—no, begging—that this injury-prone Houston Rockets team can take more than a couple of heavy hits. They're going to have a full season or more without Yao Ming, the Great Wall of China.

Slipping Away: Glen Davis' Return Becoming Less Likely

Graham — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:13:04 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17

With the Draft and the majority of blockbuster trades behind us, a question still looms concerning the Celtics. A question that, at the moment, I don't want to answer: Will we re-sign Glen Davis?

Davis' last words of solid encouragement (I mean statements that suggested that Davis was surely going to return to the Celtics) to the fans dates back to...well, I won't say it just to save you a trip to the ER.

Davis implied that he'd love to come back to Boston and play off the bench just recently, but like other times when he's talked to the reporters, he's also strongly implied that he's "curious," and would like to look around the market to see what he can get.

And let me tell you folks, this big baby is going to get a monstrous contract. Not just big, because I know you were expecting me to say that.

Teams with young players like the Thunder possess of raw talent and would like to know that they have a future All-Star big man down low...no matter how small.

Despite the fact that Davis is merely 6-foot-9, he compensates as he is a hefty 289 pounds. He also averaged 15.8 points and 5.6 rebounds per game in the playoffs, in which he substituted for the injured Kevin Garnett. I'm sure OKC would enjoy a slice of him.

You might as well call Davis a bull of a basketball player. The budding power forward is capable of slowing down massive centers such as Shaquille O'Neal and Dwight Howard.

Now, understand me when I say "slow down." I'm obviously not saying Davis could completely shut down the two All-Stars, but with help (like Perkins or Garnett), the "Ticket Stub" can surprise most people when facing up against guys like O'Neal and Howard.

The fact that Davis will be satisfied in any basketball city scares me. Read what he has to say:

"I'll be very excited to come back to the Celtics or go to a team where I might start. Wherever I'm at, I'll be happy.''

And believe me, Davis truly does mean "anywhere." The big man would be happy on a contender where he is a factor off the bench, but he is also looking to start if he happens to land on a team that may be a touch below the "contender" category.

So that means teams like the Kings, the Grizzles (although that's quite a stretch), and the Warriors are all in consideration. That's not a good thing.

Teams like the Kings, Grizzles, or Warriors may be an undesirable destination for most free agents (of course, those only playing for money would book a flight to any one of those cities in a heartbeat), but for Davis, shockingly, they still may be a valid competitor in the "race for baby," as I like to call it. Here's why.

The Kings, although being notoriously seen as the laughingstock of basketball (yes, basketball, not just the NBA), would take a step forward by acquiring Davis.

They have good young big men on their roster, some being Spencer Hawes, Donte Green, and Jason Thompson. Sacramento MUST add one more young big guy to that list, and what do you know, Glen Davis is a perfect match.

He would compliment Hawes especially as his outside game could be another passing option for the skilled Hawes down low when he finds trouble shaking free of defenders.

Both Thompson and Green are very athletic, and I find that Davis, when paired with one of those two, could become part of a dangerous open court game.

The Grizzles have many guys tradable on their roster that could bring in some fresh blood. Rudy Gay (although he's one of those tradable players), an explosive small forward, would help Davis immensely when trying to find an open shot.

Gay would compliment Davis in so many aspects of the game, especially when Davis is trying to get open.

Gay will soon be drawing constant double and maybe even triple-teams, and it would be deadly for the other team if Davis could sneak down low for the easy two or creep out for a wide open jumper.

The Warriors would be able to offer Davis an enormous amount of cash, as well as giving him the opportunity to become an offensive player no one had predicted when seeing him the first time as an NBAer.

He would flourish under Don Nelson, the offensive mastermind that is partly running the Golden State Warriors team. With the new backcourt of Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis, an addition of Davis would basically make them the second coming of the 2005 Phoenix Suns...only Amar'e Stoudemire's role would be played by a noticeably smaller player.

Davis sure does love to play defense, which all three of these teams scarcely seem to focus on. He's followed in his hero's footsteps, Kevin Garnett, to become an undeniably intense defender.

I'm sure he'd be extremely disappointed to find that these teams don't thrive as much on defense as the Celtics do.

Every Boston Celtics fan that is existing on the face of this Earth would give anything to see Glen Davis come back.

Hopefully, he'll realize the support he has under him in Boston from both the fans, coaches and players, and return to blossom as one of the league's best.

Hey Internet Trolls: Shut Up

Graham — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 14:36:57 -0400

In the five months I've spent here on Bleacher Report, I've learned a lot—not only about writing and journalism, but what it takes besides talent with a pen and pencil/keyboard and computer to be a writer.

I've also gone through positive and negative experiences; however, both will play major roles in my dream of becoming a journalist.

In fact, you could say my time here has been so educational that it may even be more beneficial than going to school (although not falling asleep in math class would probably put public education above).

The positives? I've met some great people, friends, and mentors I hope to have alongside of me for life, including Blaine Spence, Andrew Nuschler, Leroy Watson, Stephen Meyer, Richard Marsh, Nick Carlo, Matt Miselis, DJ Rallo, Daniel Barber (Hotnuke), Dan Callagy, Hao Meng, Pete McKeown, Louie Ramos, Saraswathi Sirigina, Bryn Swartz, Cody Swartz, Paul Swaney, Robert Allred, Eric Annett, Tim Coughlin, Josh Bakan, and Josh Dhani (also like to give a special shoutout to Sulayman, who promoted me when I returned to Bleacher Report—props, dude.).

If I didn't mention you, don't worry, because I know that I have your support.

I've also become more mature in situations where I've been shot down or ridiculed because I erred in certain articles.

I've learned to keep my cool, but still assert myself as a confident, solid individual, whereas before I just came across as the immature 13-year-old who was trying to defend his pretty crappy work.

I've learned a lot about the art of commenting on an article, but you can read about all of that here.

And although encounters with the negatives that come along with being a part of B/R was a good challenge for me to face, it still bugged me. Ticked me off, if you know what I mean.

For example, what's the point of lingering around one's article waiting for a comment or a response from the writer to show up, solely to further insult or embarrass the writer by pointing out errors and taking notice to the accidental spelling and grammar mistakes they may have made?

Thus we come to a term. A term used not only for pessimistic critics on the Internet, but in this cruel world that we live in: trolls.

These trolls somehow find a perverted pleasure in watching others fail miserably due to mistakes that only a troll would pick up.

Actually, "pick up" is not the phrase I was looking for. Trolls actually look, and scour a piece, merely to shove one's inaccuracies or faults right back in their faces.

Trolls also love, love, to complain about certain omissions in the article. If a point or fact that may have further enhanced the piece is excluded, they jump right on it.

Personally, it's disgusting. In short, trolls enjoy having fun at someone else's expense.

So, we writers have to take a stand. Although it may sound funny to the people reading this, it's a time for change and progress in the Internet world.

Again, this may cause you to snicker, but it's in fact socially acceptable for trolls to be...well, trolls. On the computer, of course. And although we may find it annoying, we never got serious.

We shrugged it off.

We let it roll of our backs.

Well, no more. We found it perfectly normal to receive useless negative feedback on our articles. I say useless because it really has no core meaning to it.

Trolls just type in random insults (they may or may not have even read the article) and mock us for no real purpose. Just to do it.

But actually, in real life, this is considered a form of harassment. Harassment has the word "ass" in it, by the way, which is a trick I use to remember how to spell it (true story: my reading teacher told my class this year that we can remember how to spell harassment if we just remember that harassers are asses).

Do we take harassment in real life?

Shrug it off?

Let it roll of our backs?

No. We raise our fist in the air and declare this wrong. We stomp on the trolls we come across in our life. We don't let them destroy our career or dreams. And we certainly do not let them humiliate us.

It wouldn't be hard, either. In the history of the world, we've been delayed by obstacles. We've had our share of pickles (no, not the food). It's us against them. We've done this before, right? And in more severe circumstances, at that.

You see, trolls think they're tough and mean behind the computer screen. They think we fear them. They believe that they have the advantage, because they think that we're scared of them. But are we?

Well, let's just say I'd like to see the look on their faces when they see a mob of us in actual life, not just behind the glass that protects and shields them from life's consequences.

So, to start of this "movement," I'll say the first words in an attempt to bring the presence we have to the trolls' attention. Sort of like breaking glass at a Jewish wedding, but completely different. Sort of. Here goes:

To all Internet trolls: We are not afraid, nor scared of you. We won't live with your crude and unnecessary words.

We, instead, will build an Internet world where kind and pleasant gestures toward others in need of encouraging feedback will become an everyday thing.

And for those of you who still do not follow suit: shut up. Simply shut up.

Quick Recap of the NBA Draft

Graham — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 11:16:08 -0400

Article seen at Celtics 17

Thought I'd give you guys my quick take on the Draft. Josh (joshb) will be giving you guys a full analysis of the Draft later on today.

Below is just my "short 'n sweet" take at how the Draft played out.

Well, the 2009 NBA Draft is over. Some surprising choices were made, including the Kings skipping over Ricky Rubio to grab Tyreke Evans at the No. 4 pick, and some not-so-surprising choices were made, including Blake Griffin being the first one to get up out of his seat and go shake David Stern's hand. He went to the Clippers (as most of you already know).

Most disappointing to see drop: DeJuan Blair. Let's face it: The kid's value plummeted because of his shaky knees, although he seemed fine in college to me.

Pittsburgh coach told the ESPN broadcasting crew (which was rather excruciating to listen to) that Blair never missed a practice nor a game ever in his two years as a member of Pitt's basketball team. And he had knee problems then as well. The Spurs lucked out in this one, snagging him with the 37th pick in the draft.

Most intriguing player picked in the second round: Sam Young. He has an excellent shot fake.

As Jay Bilas said after Young was selected by the Grizzles, he really emphasizes his shot fake and although it may look overdone, it really does work. Young has a very athletic body, with the ability to block shots and play hard nosed defense.

He is also a tough, solid player with the ability to get to the line multiple times in a game. The Grizzles, like the Spurs, were fortunate enough to have him fall that far deep into the draft.

Most surprising pick: Tyler Hansbrough, going at 13 to the Indiana Pacers. Sure, he was an All-American college player and is the leader in points in the ACC, which did include Michael Jordan, but he isn't expected to be a star in the NBA.

It seemed to me that the Pacers were looking for a PG, but passed on both Jrue Holiday and Hansbrough's teammate Ty Lawson. He's a hard worker, and will put forth his best efforts to be a solid player in this league, but I don't think he'll live up to the expectations that are put on a lottery choice, even in a draft as weak as this.

How the Celtics did: He'll look to prove his worth in this league as he is a 24-year old high-school dropout, but Lester Hudson, the man who's name was called at the 58th pick, will have to work extremely hard just to find a way into Doc's rotation.

Make sure to check out Josh's full analysis of this Draft later on today!

Rajon Rondo Rumors Swirl, Trade Should Be Anticipated

Graham — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:46:20 -0400

Check out my blog, CELTICS 17, tomorrow for a live commenting thread and rumors all day.

I don't have ESPN Insider, so thankfully CelticsBlog gave us a quick update on Rondo rumors, which seem to be piling up each minute we wait for the NBA Draft to begin. Here's the latest:

POSTED: June 24 -- 12:43 p.m. ET

Chris Broussard: Rajon Rondo is definitely on the market. I'm told he's very hard for Doc Rivers to coach, and that although Rondo gets along OK with his teammates, he's far from a great teammate. The fear in Boston is that if Rondo is this difficult to handle on a rookie-scale salary, he'll be a monster once he earns big money.

One GM told me, "They won a championship with this guy, and he's coming off a tremendous playoff performance ... and they're looking to trade him. That tells you how bad things are."

POSTED: June 24 -- 12:17 p.m. ET

Marc Stein: The Celtics scoffed with vigor Tuesday night when we presented them with a Rajon Rondo/Brian Scalabrine-for-Rudy Gay/Mike Conley scenario.

It certainly does make more sense that the Celts wouldn't surrender Rondo without getting the second overall pick back in the swap, but it's clearly getting harder and harder for them to convince folks that Rondo.

This is hard for me to say, but I'm really beginning to believe that Rondo is going to be on the move, whether it be tonight, tomorrow morning, during the Draft, or post-Draft.

There are just too many rumors to have a deal fall through—too many GMs confirming that yes, Rondo is being shopped. Too many experts, like Chad Ford and Chris Broussard, are telling us that despite Danny's denial, Rondo is on the block.

Maybe the biggest suspicion is the number of teams that would be interested in Rondo. Don't forget, Minnesota has four first-rounders. Timberwolves executive David Kahn says that they will not give up both the fifth and sixth pick for Memphis' number two.

Could Minnesota and Boston be brewing up a blockbuster trade once again?

I believe so.

Without Randy Foye, they obviously have no true PG. Rubio may be one of the most hyped prospects and one of the more exciting point guards out there, but he's not as NBA-ready as people are projecting him to be.

As for Rondo—like the GM said—he won a championship with Boston, and he's coming off his best playoff showing yet—averaging close to a triple-double and keeping the C's from drowning when the Bulls were on the verge of upsetting the then-defending champions.

What do you guys think?

NOTE: There will be a commenting thread tomorrow (on Celtics 17. Link is above the article) I'll have up early in the morning so we can discuss the Draft-day trades (potential or real) and rumors. Make sure to comment!

How the Wizards-Timberwolves Deal Changes Plans

Graham — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:04:17 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17 and FootBasket

Around NBA Draft time, there's a lot to think about—predictions, careful examinations, and most of all, suppositions. But yesterday, some beliefs, some guesses, and some "theories" came true. Richard Jefferson was traded to the Spurs in literally a blink of an eye.

Shortly afterward, the Minnesota Timberwolves wanted to get into the action and pulled off a deal that included Mike Miller and Randy Foye heading to Washington, and Washington's No. 5 pick in the NBA Draft going to Minny.

The funny thing is, despite the bags and bags full of rumors, these were the least speculated—the least talked about.

Sure, RJ to the Spurs was a hot topic around last year's trade deadline, but nobody predicted him to be on a flight to San Antonio right now. The Timberwolves and Wizards have everybody gossiping around the league, as this deal was entirely unexpected.

The deal officially going down certainly changes a lot of plans, including the days surrounding the NBA Draft and during the NBA Draft, as well as next season.

The NBA Draft

Nobody thought the Timberwolves would hold four first-rounders in their hands. Three was already a surprise for some people. But the common question is now, "What will they do with them?"

With Foye gone, the T-Wolves may be looking to move up in the Draft to grab a point guard. They also have some questions with Miller leaving. Who's going to be their go-to guy? Their deadly shooter? Minnesota will likely take a look at both James Harden and Tyreke Evans to answer those questions.

But the real juicy rumor going around now is the Timberwolves trading both the fifth and sixth picks for Memphis' second pick. Ricky Rubio is a prospect raved about all over the world and is a guy who, if worked with right, can play multiple NBA positions.

Not only does Rubio have the skills to play point guard, he also has the height (6'5") to even be a decent shooting guard in this league. That's a very intriguing option for the Timberwolves right there.

And Washington? Well, despite not having any picks left in the first round of the draft, they are still very excited for next season. See why in the next segment...

The NBA Season/Playoffs

The Wizards have just been transformed into a playoff team. Mike Miller and Randy Foye are two players you can count on to work hard and produce for you. Foye averaged 16.3 ppg last year and is only 26 years old. Gilbert Arenas may find his job already taken if he can't recover from his two consecutive injuries right away.

Miller also gives Washington a solid guard at the No. 2 position, averaging just under 10 ppg, 6.6 rpg, and 4.5 apg in 32.3 minutes.

That means the Wizards will have scorers at all positions with Brendan Haywood returning. Their starting lineup should look like this:

PG: Gilbert Arenas/Randy Foye
SG: Mike Miller/DeShawn Stevenson
SF: Caron Butler
PF: Antawn Jamison
C: Brendan Haywood

The Wiz will also have a solid bench as well, with JaVale McGee and Nick Young both having very promising years last season.

That being said, the Wizards are now a legitimate NBA threat. They will most likely make the playoffs with their current roster, as the recent deal strengthened a lot of weak spots in their game. They have a large amount of depth in both the starting lineup and off the bench, and they also have some more veteran poise to count on in the locker room.

The Wiz probably won't be a top seed, but in my mind they will have no trouble securing a seed somewhere from the 5-8 area.

They'll have to battle with teams such as the Bulls, the Pistons (who are a bit shaky at the moment), the Heat, the Hawks, and the 76ers. If Arenas comes back healthy and the Wizards don't have any other significant injuries, they MAY have a shot at the fourth seed, but it is still very, very improbable.

The Hawks have now had two years of playoff drama under their belt, and D-Wade is determined to lead the Heat further into the playoffs than last year.

The Wolves are not going to make the playoffs next year. Sorry Minny fans, but I have to break it to you—right now, the Western Conference is a bit full. With RJ heading to San Antonio, the Spurs are right there at the top again, along with foes such as the Lakers, Nuggets, and Rockets.

The bottom half of the playoff teams are also set to go for the beginning of next season—the squads being the Hornets, Mavericks, Jazz, and Trail Blazers.

However, the Wolves will surely be better next season. If they can somehow move up and snag Ricky Rubio, they'll have themselves a very interesting guard who can turn out to be a superstar if worked with correctly.

If they stay put at No. 5 and 6, they can pluck Tyreke Evans and James Harden back to back, two sureshot elite NBA scorers.

The Wolves, Wizards, and many other teams have a lot on their mind right now. Plans have been altered due to trades and other swaps, and the upcoming NBA Draft and approaching NBA season both have a new twist. I'm guessing that yesterday's trades will be accompanied by a few other blockbuster deals as the offseason drags on.

The Top Five NBA Players to Never Win a Championship

Graham — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 06:26:04 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17

There's one topic players throughout the league agree about.

It's that winning a championship is the greatest feeling you could ever have.

The ultimate accomplishment, the most significant achievement, and the most memorable moment of glory.

Sadly, not all players, even greats, are able to win championships.

And those greats especially are deprived of something extraordinary. Deprived of hoisting that Larry O'Brien trophy high in the air so all can see. Deprived of raising the banner the subsequent season as proof that they were champions.

Deprived of winning on the most important stage, and having the privilege to say that you were victorious in the Finals. In some cases, players are not elected into the Hall Of Fame simply because they weren't winners in the Association.

But which players are seen as "the best of the best (that did not win a ring)?" To answer that question, I've compiled a list of the top five players to never win a championship.

5. Patrick Ewing: Despite the Knicks appearing in the playoffs multiple times during Ewing's career, the celebrated center never won a title. Ewing has been a member of the Hall Of Fame since 2008, in a class which included Hakeem Olajuwon and Adrian Dantley.

Ewing is an 11-time All-Star, and was part of an All-NBA team seven times (six times appointed to second team, one time named to first team).

Ewing was an active player when the NBA named its top 50 players in honor of its 50th anniversary. However, although his career was not yet over, he was still selected as a member of the historic list.

The Hoya Destroya matched up against some of the most feared centers ever, including Shaquille O'Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon, Robert Parish, and David Robinson. He's the Knicks franchise leader in points, rebounds, blocked shots, and games played.

In short, you could make a very solid argument that Ewing is the greatest Knickerbocker in the team's history.

The lowest point in Ewing's career was perhaps when the Knicks fell to Olajuwon's Rockets in the 1994 NBA Finals. The Knicks collapsed in games 6 and 7, two games in which the Rockets won with not many ticks left on the clock. Ewing made the playoffs in years after, but never came as close as he was that season.

4. John Stockton: John Stockton is unquestionably one of the most entertaining and talented point guards to ever set foot on a basketball court.

He is the league's all-time leader in both assists in steals, both categories which he has a substantial lead over the second place holder. He also wrangled 19,711 points in the span of 19 years, all of which were played with the Utah Jazz.

Stockton is also featured in the NBA's 50 Greatest Players list, as well as a member of the Hall Of Fame, which he was recently voted into (2009). Stockton is a 10-time All-Star as well, two years even winning the All-Star game's MVP. He is an 11-time member of the All-NBA team, two times being chosen as a first team player.

3. Karl Malone: Malone was a long-time teammate of John Stockton, playing with the point guard for 18 years before leaving Utah to go to the Lakers after Stockton announced his retirement. Malone is not yet a member of the Hall Of Fame, as he retired one year after Stockton and was not eligible for nomination this year.

He decided to hang up his shoes after failing to win a championship with LA in the 2003-04 season. Unfortunately for Malone, the Lakers had won a championship each of the three years prior to the '03-04 season, but were not successful in the one year Malone had joined the team.

The NBA saw Malone as one of the league's 50 best players in history, too. Malone is the record holder for most free throws attempted and sunk, as well as first in defensive rebounds. He is behind Kareem Abdul Jabbar for the most scored baskets, with 36,928 points.

The Mailman may have delivered everything but a championship in his prosperous career.

2. Charles Barkley: Charles Barkley is not only amusing in the announcing booth, but on the basketball court, as well. The Round Mound of Rebound is one of only four players to ever record over 20,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, and 4,000 assists. All of this was accumulated over the course of his 16 year career in the NBA.

The most remembered segment of his career was his time with the Philadelphia 76ers. Barkley spent more time in Philly than any other individual team, playing as a 76er for eight years. Barkley was drafted in 1984, two picks after Michael Jordan, who had been selected third that year.

Barkley entered his first year accompanied by greats such as Julius Erving, Moses Malone, and Maurice Cheeks, three stars crucial to Philly's championship which was won the year prior to Barkley's arrival.

Although Barkley's addition was expected to give the Sixers yet another championship, they eventually fell to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals. The rookie Barkley averaged 14.9 points and 11.1 rebounds in his first ever NBA postseason.

1. Elgin Baylor: Elgin Baylor is possibly one of the most underrated NBA players in the history of the game. During his era, he was seen as the Michael Jordan of basketball. Many consider him to be the greatest offensive power ever, as he averaged 27.4 points per game in his CAREER. He was also a tenacious rebounder, his career average being 13.5 rebounds per game.

Baylor's most successful offensive year had to be his 1960-61 season, in which he averaged 34.8 points per game, 19.8 rebounds per game, and 5.1 assists per game. Most people would chime in to say that it was in fact Baylor's '61-62 season. WRONG.

Baylor played a mere 48 games in the 1961-62 season, compared to the 73 games he dressed for in the previous year, 1960-61. He also averaged more rebounds and assists, two categories that are also obviously valued when recognizing a player's offensive firepower.

Although the Lakers have won 15 championships in their legendary franchise history, Baylor did not have the opportunity to win one with them as a player. Their best chance was the 1969 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics.

The Lakers had traded for Wilt Chamberlain that season to unite current Laker greats such as Baylor and Jerry West.

However, the Lakers fell in the ever famous "balloon" game," where the Lakers organization predicted the Lakers would win due to their unbelievable talent, and had planned to drop balloons from the rafters for some sort of celebration. Powered behind Bill Russell, the Celtics were determined to not let those balloons fall.

Honorable Mentions

Pete Maravich: A crafty guard known for his canny passing skills and fascinating basketball tricks.

Dominque Wilkins: A high-flying dunk master often compared to Michael Jordan in terms of showy dunks.

Reggie Miller: One of the game's best three-point shooters and one of the most exciting clutch players.

Bailing Him Out: Three Reasons for Rajon Rondo's Attitude Problem

Graham — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 08:58:27 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17 and FootBasket

Coming into the offseason, many basketball fans thought highly of Rajon Rondo. He had just come off some of the best performances of his career in the playoffs, and certainly his best year as a professional basketball player.

However, Danny Ainge and the Boston Celtics had different thoughts. Rondo's been mentioned in recent trade rumors involving the C's and the upcoming NBA Draft. It's been said that Boston executives are targeting teams that currently hold first-round picks.

Despite a team source denying the rumors, there's still discussion swirling about concerning one of Rajon's negatives: his attitude. We all know that the kid is stubborn, and he can sometimes be cocky and a little too independent (not listening to Doc's advice, going about his own way), but the point guard has talent. He is a magnificent rebounder and has also put his passing ability on display.

To boot, he is capable of scoring 30 points a night, something that may very well occur on a regular basis if he can develop a jumpshot.

He can also play excellent defense. Rondo has been pegged as one of the league's top defenders, and by some the best defender playing the PG position. He has a lot of moxie and leadership within him, which is intriguing if you're looking for a guy to step up for your team in a few years. Rondo has already taken on the role of on-court leader, as he has recognized that a point guard must be vocal in order for his team to succeed.

And succeed the Celtics have. In the past two seasons, Boston has been in contention for a championship with Rajon quarterbacking. They won a title in '08, making for the franchise's first since the 1985-86 season, and earned first place honors with a 66-16 record. This year, although the result wasn't as glorious as the previous year, they were a top team amongst the other powerhouses in the NBA, including the world champion Los Angeles Lakers, Orlando Magic, and Cleveland Cavaliers.

But I know that his demeanor still worries most of you, so I have prepared three excuses for Rondo's attitude problem, just in case you're not satisfied yet.

Rondo Has to Deal with Three Somewhat Egotistical Stars

For two years now, Rajon has had to battle through problems with three of some of his most talented teammates: Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen.

Allen has been the most trouble out of the three mentioned, on the court at least. Ray doesn't waste any time letting Rondo know that he's upset with him. You'll know by Allen shouting at his starting PG that Rondo missed an opening on the wing.

In the locker room, I'm sure he has to sit down with Kevin Garnett every once in a while due to a poor performance or a slump he's in. Garnett, like Allen, does not beat around the bush. If he has something to say, he'll voice his opinion. He will get to his point quickly and sharply. There's no doubt in my mind that Rondo has had to swallow some pride at times while listening to Garnett mentally slap him around a little bit.

During practice, guys like Paul Pierce are sure to come over and point things out. He may not be as harsh as KG and Ray-Ray, but he won't stand for constant errors on the court. He can act like a mentor and an enforcer at the same time. Either way, young guns like Rajon Rondo will benefit. While Pierce may not be the most friendliest at times, he's probably Rondo's favorite one to talk to out of the trio.

And not only does he have to deal with them bashing on him, but he also holds the responsibility of distributing the ball to them. Rondo has to make decisions game after game whether to pass to KG more often, Ray more often, or Pierce more often. He has to make the choice of whether or not to pass to one star or another when multiple other guys are open.

It takes a lot of effort not just physically, but mentally too. I can understand why Rondo can get fed up sometimes.

Doc's Hard on Rondo

I must admit, I'd love to play for a coach like Doc Rivers. Since he has playing experience of his own, he is patient with his players. He is seen as a guy you can joke around with, but also a guy you can go to when you need advice on and off the basketball court.

Because Doc was a PG, he is more demanding of his guards. He asks a lot from Rondo as the starting point guard, which at times can frustrate and anger the budding star. The two often feud about Rondo's game style and tactics. It can sometimes lead to sideline arguments, in the middle of a game no less.

Rivers can also be very constructive towards Rondo. Doc has an exceptional basketball IQ, and his knowledge is still expanding as his coaching career progresses. Rondo may become a much more intelligent point guard under Rivers' guidance. He knows minor things like floor spacing and disruptions (e.g. tips on defense) can be very effective if used at the right times and on certain opposing players.

Rondo's Juvenile

Rondo himself said that he's a stubborn kid. Although veteran teammates may try to approach him with suggestions on how to improve, I sense that he blocks the advice out. He may feel that all advice he receives may not necessarily be productive, as, like I hinted above, the "Big Three" aren't always so tolerant with their youthful teammate. Assumptions are made by Rondo, bad blood is suspected by other teammates, and that is that.

But that can all be fixed naturally, and over time. Rondo is still at a juvenile age. His immaturity and puerile thoughts can all be smoothed over as he ages. His inexperience seems to be concealed on the court. He plays with a sort of swagger and confidence only a veteran does, and he gives off some sort of a sophisticated aura when playing. But in the locker room, his attitude could turn completely in the other direction.

Hopefully Danny will keep him and he can show that he does have those leadership qualities within him.

Why We'll Never See Quite Another Basketball Phenom Like Michael Jordan

Graham — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 06:17:29 -0400

God is described as the supreme being. The creator and ruler of the universe. Except for the whole "creator and ruler" part, that's basically how most people define Michael Jordan—from a basketball sense of course.

Jordan won six titles with the Bulls, the time spans being divided into two periods—1991-1993, and 1996-1998. He was awarded MVP five times, and NBA Finals MVP six times; one for each championship.

Above all, Air Jordan is seen as the greatest basketball player ever. In the history of the game. He is owner of one of the most recognized, popular, and biggest household sports names throughout the country, and likely the world.

After reading this article from Bleacher Report, I've had some sort of an epiphany. Michael Jordan was undoubtedly special. You could certainly say he was one of a kind. Kids did and still do admire Jordan, as well as current and former players.

You see, Jordan gained control (accidentally of course) of the basketball world. He took over the game on and off the court. Diehard fans literally lived and breathed Michael Jordan. They got involved into trickery that led them to a bandwagon. A bandwagon so powerful that their grip would become too addicting to let go.

And why not? With the commercial and fashion world behind him, he was publicized enough on commercials to have his own TV show, considering the time he took up with ads and endorsements. The media created him to be a massive figure in the sports world.

Here's some tidbits of my comment I made from the article I linked to above.

"This guy is up there with Muhammad Ali and Babe Ruth. Possibly even above, as he was lucky enough to have the endorsement and media world, unlike Ruth and Ali."

Change "possibly" to "definitely," as I realized that after my epiphany.

And Michael's not just a basketball star, but the owner of his clothing industry, which is partnered with Nike, and has participated in multiple movies.

"I wanna be like Mike" is one of the most historical basketball quotes ever. "Like Mike" (yes referring to Jordan) was an actual movie series, and has grown into an obsession for many basketball dreamers all over the world.

Clothes are a big part of the Michael Jordan industry. Heck, not just clothes, but hygiene products as well. I have Michael Jordan cologne for Heaven's sake. His spread legs and raised arm are seen on shirts worldwide, and have now become somewhat of a basketball symbol.

He's also a Charlotte Bobcats team executive. The team took a big jump this year under the guidance of head coach Larry Brown. Brown is a defensive specialist, and the Bobcats responded well to his coaching, as they let up just 94.89 points per game to the opposing team, eighth in the league.

Jordan and the Bobcats could have a very successful organization if they could continue to add quality talent to the team.

However, he is not nearly the executive as he was player. In 2001, he was a lead part in the Wizards selecting Kwame Brown with the first pick in that year's NBA Draft. It was a Draft which included Tyson Chandler, Pau Gasol, Shane Battier, Jason Richardson, and Joe Johnson. Gilbert Arenas and Mehmet Okur were also sleepers that had their names called late in the Draft.

Nonetheless, MJ has been a man of feats throughout the course of his career. From his MVP trophies, to his multiple championships, to his manufacturing world. So wouldn't you agree that Jordan is a rare find? A unique, distinctive guy in the not just the basketball world, but in the business, fashion, and media world?

Sure Tiger Woods is up there. Guys like Ali, Ruth, and Beckham all mastered their sport and became extremely popular outside of the game. Even Lance Armstrong is an extraordinary athlete. But they were all special in their own way.

Ali may not have been classy (at least in my opinion), but he was likely one of the most memorable boxers in recent history. He'll be a remembered personage for a while.

And Ruth? He was at the very least a world-class baseball player. He was the record holder for home runs until Hank Aaron came along, and was also an extremely talented pitcher.

Tiger Woods is being compared to golfing greats such as Jack Nicklaus. By the end of his career, Woods may be the greatest golfer of all-time.

Lance Armstrong will not only be looked back on for his seven Tour De France titles, but for his battle against cancer and for his will to survive. Live Strong is one of the most prominent sporting attires ever.

And Michael Jordan? There's many ways to describe him. I'll keep it short.

His Airness, Michael Jordan is...

-A phenom;

-A basketball wonder;

-An immortal athlete.

And sure LeBron James and Kobe Bryant put side-by-side with him. They'll be remembered for their own individual achievements. They'll be great in their own way.

But no one will ever come along with that same firepower, that same fierceness as Michael Jordan.

No Picks? No Problem: How the Boston Celtics Can Work Magic This NBA Draft

Graham — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 06:23:22 -0400

Also seen at Celtics 17 and FootBasket

The Celtics do not have the opportunity to make any selections this year's NBA Draft. However, Celtics executive Danny Ainge has been trying to negotiate with some of the Draft's lottery teams in an attempt to snag some pretty intriguing prospects.

Some team needs include a backup small forward and a backup shooting guard (there's no way we can check these tasks off without acquiring someone via trade), a big man, and a veteran. We have one spot open to pick up a free agent, preferably a big man with experience. Chris Andersen and Brandon Bass are some possibilities.

The Celtics are also hoping to re-sign Glen Davis after his exceptional play in the playoffs while replacing the injured Kevin Garnett. They will have to compete with some teams willing to give Davis the big bucks in order for him to come play for them. He'll attract a few big contracts from the lesser teams who have money available.

With Kevin Garnett and Leon Powe returning, we should be better than last year's team without even making any moves. However, Powe's injury is much more severe than Garnett's, who recently had surgery to repair his knee.

Powe could miss the first month or two of the season because of that, but should be ready to come back healthy and rested for the remainder of the season. Hopefully he won't take a long time to get back into a groove.

As the Draft approaches, Danny Ainge, Wyc Grousbeck, and other important members of Boston's front office have to look at this "to-do list," and decide whether or not they want to move some players to get a lottery pick.

Ray Allen is most certainly on the block because of his expiring contract. Apparently young studs such as Bill Walker, Kendrick Perkins, and Rajon Rondo are also on the block. But, despite all the hype, I doubt that any of those three will be shipped out.

Can the Celtics work magic this year? Here are some potential deals that could go down before, during, and after the draft.

Celtics trade Ray Allen for the Minnesota Timberwolves' first round pick (sixth): The Celtics have been targeting Tyreke Evans for quite some time now after word got out that Danny Ainge was interested in the Memphis guard. He has some excellent ball-handling ability, but like most young guards that we deal with, a developing jumpshot.

If the deal went down, we wouldn't have Ray Allen to mentor the All-American, so he'd have to work hard with some other Celtics veterans to enrich his game with a decent jumper.

He has the athleticism, quickness, and strength to become a great defender, but as of right now, defense isn't his strong point. Not at all. The defensive segment of his game is apparently one of his weakest spots, and might not fit in well with the C's style of play if he can't become a hard-worker on the defensive side of the floor.

Boston trades Bill Walker, Gabe Pruitt, and cash for the Charlotte Bobcats' first round pick (12th), then immediately trade 12th pick and Kendrick Perkins to Memphis Grizzlies' first round pick (second): This one is the least likely to happen, but still one of the more throught-provoking scenarios. We have the choice of grabbing monstrous center Hasheem Thabeet, skillful guard Ricky Rubio, or wily guard James Harden.

Thabeet's specialty is shot-blocking. He is 7-2, 267 pound colossus from the University of Connecticut. He hopes to follow in the footsteps of fellow African star Dikembe Mutombo, who was one of best shot-blockers the NBA has ever seen.

We need a solid defender down low, as well as a guy who can play a good amount of minutes, two things Thabeet is capable of doing. Another interesting thing about Thabeet is his budding offensive game. He could be huge if he is able to score for us this year.

Ricky Rubio was originally projected to be the number two pick in the Draft, but ended up falling to the Sacramento Kings at number four. His NBA comparisons include All-Star guard Steve Nash and Toronto guard Jose Calderon.

One thing that worries most people is his European play. He has never played basketball in America. Most Europeans promoted prior to the Draft end up becoming busts.

James Harden is an intelligent, clever guard coming out of Arizona. NBADraft.net is reporting that Harden has an enormous amount of intangibles, and is also an exceptional passer. Harden is compared to All-Stars Brandon Roy and Manu Ginobili.

Both are tough players with great basketball IQ's, something the C's are in need for if they hope to win next season.

Celtics trade J.R. Giddens and Brian Scalabrine for the Philadelphia 76ers' first round pick (17th): The Celtics are looking for some new blood to come in and possibly back up Paul Pierce. They'd be more comfortable if they had other options besides Bill Walker, who although has a lot of potential, may not have the explosiveness he had in college due to an ACL injury.

Who could they pick? Arizona's Chase Budinger, who's been talked about during Draft season for a couple of years now. He's a 6-7, 205 pound small forward, with the ability to hit the jump shot. He also has a lot of athleticism which will help considering Pierce will see a bit of a decline in minutes, asking more out of Budinger.

We'd also dump some cash if Scal left, and we wouldn't have to worry about developing a guy like Giddens who doesn't seem to have any future right now (well, at least from what I can see). It would give us another roster spot to work when looking at free agents too.

Enjoy Kobe & Co., You Won't Be Kissing That Golden Ball Next Year

Graham — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 06:26:19 -0400

Also seen at: Celtics 17 and FootBasket

The final minutes wound down at the Amway Arena last night as the Los Angeles Lakers finally achieved the goal they had been waiting to reach for about a year now.

God I wanted to punch Pau Gasol in the face so bad. No joke, he looked as smug as the guy on the highway who thinks he's cool because he has his windows down when it's pouring rain.

Either that or he actually stepped out of his vehicle and stood in the rain, because the Spaniard was nothing short of soaked with champagne or whatever they spray around that locker room.

Sorry I just had to do that. Back to the topic on hand.

And as a group of Magic fans slowly got up and left the building, they felt disappointed. They felt devastated. But not Kobe Bryant. Bryant looked up and, in a mental picture, waved goodbye to those heartbroken Magic fans. Looked up, and smiled. He could feel that sweet sense of victory. He felt overcome as his body began to go numb.

When he was handed the Finals MVP trophy, he raised it high in the air, acknowledging the fact that he was literally "on top of the basketball world." There was no Kevin Garnett postgame entertainment. There was nothing that we'll remember about Bryant's celebration. But for the Black Mamba, it's a moment he'll never forget.

It was the first time he'd won a championship as the star. People always referred back to Kobe's three previous championships as a player when arguing that he was the best in the game. But Kobe knew that it wasn't worth recognizing as much as people had though it had been.

Why? Because all those other championships were won BESIDE Shaq. ALONGSIDE of Derek Fisher. WITH THE SUPPORT of Big Shot Rob.

Bryant knew that he had MUST win one by himself for his own satisfaction. Sure he was and still is seen as one of the greatest by fellow players and peers. But he wouldn't have considered himself a true winner if he hadn't gotten one on his own.

When Kobe kissed that golden ball, that Larry O'Brien trophy, he finally tasted that sweet sensation he had been desiring for his whole career. He had won a ring for his own gratitude.

Unfortunately for Kobe and Co., the Lakers will most likely not win the championship next year. He won't encounter that golden ball next season. He won't taste that sensation for two consecutive years.

No, we Boston fans won't stand for it. With our eager front office ready to strike first, Celtics fans should feel good about the support and efforts our team executives are putting in this offseason.

With stars like Kevin Garnett and role players like Leon Powe returning from nasty injuries this year (Powe may have to miss a month or two in the beginning of the season though), we will have a solid core of big man. That is, when we pluck the big man of our choice out of the free agent market.

Wyc and Danny have assured us that they will work tirelessly to hopefully snag a backup for Paul Pierce whether it be via trade, free agency or the upcoming NBA Draft. It could be former Celtic James Posey, Memphis Tiger All-American Tyreke Evans, or free agent Grant Hill. For a Celtics fan, it sounds intriguing. For Lakers fans, it sounds scary.

Kevin Garnett will be fired up come the start of the season, and his energy will most likely stay at the same level throughout the year. Despite the price, Doc Rivers is hungry to feel that red gatorade splash on his suit once again. Paul Pierce is hoping to raise that gatorade cooler to pour on his shocked coach.

Ray Allen's production may start to decline, but the fact that he will be recovered from the minor injuries that nagged him all playoffs is exciting for optimistic Celtics fans like me.

Rajon Rondo hopes to improve and rise to another tier of top point guards in the league. He can do that by helping to lead his team to a title, something that will prevent Kobe from winning his fifth ring. And let me tell you, the young gun is hungry.

He was .7 rebounds away from averaging a trip-dub in the first round series against the Bulls, and needed just two more rebounds to average a triple-double in the C's second round series against the Magic. In the end, Rondo's averages consisted of 16.9 ppg, 9.7 rpg, and 9.8 apg.

And for LeBron and the Cavs?

No, LBJ won't stand for it any longer. In his mind, it's time to slide that ring on his finger. It's time to raise the Finals MVP award, and put his arm around teammates who are strangling that trophy awarded to the team who can come out victorious on the final stage.

If Shaq comes to Cleveland, it won't be any different. The expectations will be higher sure, but LBJ, Shaq, Mike Brown, and other members of the Cavs organization will still be determined to come out on top.

James doesn't feel like staying home and rehearsing new ideas for the "MVPuppets" commercial. He'd like to leave that torture for Kobe Bryant next May and June.

Mike Brown would like to prove to people that the COY trophy given to him this year was not a fluke. He would like to show fans around the league that all those practices spent solely on defense were not a waste of time.

All those team meetings preaching execution were not useless. Brown would like justify his worthiness as the Cavaliers coach, and would like to convince us and the Cavs that it would be a mistake to fire him.

When Dwight Howard flew on that plane back to Orlando, he was furious with himself. But I think I can assume that that frustration will soon turn into an epiphany for Howard. Seven hours or so of perceiving the errs he made, and relecting on them in a constructive, positive way would do some good for the Defensive Player Of the Year.

Stan Van Gundy won't focus on dressing better next season. Rather, he'll scrutinize his coaching tactics and technique, in an attempt to improve for the better of his players next season.

Jameer Nelson will look to salvage his All-Star talent that he showcased earlier in the season, something that was slightly diminished after suffering a torn labrum, as it's very possible that Orlando could have beaten LA if he was healthy.

With Nelson and Rafer Alston as the Magic's two main point guards in the rotation, they'll come into the regular season feeling pretty good above their backcourt (Courtney Lee, Mickael Pietrus, two primary shooting guards).

George Karl won't plan on standing stiff, rigid, and hopeless next season in the playoffs, which is exactly what he did in game six in the WCFs against the Lakers, a game that sent the Denver Nuggets home and crushed their dreams of advancing to the Finals.

Karl stood there and watched as his team fall miserably. He'll plan on brewing up some tricky plays that can be used when in panicky situations.

Carmelo Anthony has matured into a veteran, one who can lead his team and step up with the Nuggets need him. He showed that in the Nuggets-Mavericks series, where he played through contact (most players would stop when they felt the bump, but the whistle was never blown) and hit the game-winning three-pointer in Dallas.

Chauncey Billups will be Chauncey Billups. Poised, prepared, and intent on taking down the Lake-show next year. He'll do that by utilizing his strengths, which include experience, defense, and clutch shooting.

He has the ability to stay cool in pressure-packed circumstances, but also is able to pump his teammates up in late game situations. If it ever comes down to the wire between LA and Denver next season, look for Billups to step up and come up big for his team.

So Kobe, just know that next year won't be a stroll in the park. Teams will be watching your every move. Teams will be waiting for that first game. Ready to get their revenge on you and your Lakers.

Will Shaq and LeBron Together Finally Give Cleveland a Title?

Graham — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 06:22:40 -0400

Also seen at: Celtics 17

Rumors of Shaquille O'Neal heading to Cleveland have sprouted a lot of thoughts. Some thoughts questioning possibilities, some thoughts stating facts and/or opinions.

One question is obvious: Will the pair of Shaq and LeBron end up as ugly as the rest of Shaq's relationships?

In the late '90s, the Big Aristotle split up with guard Penny Hardaway, leaving the Magic and heading to L.A. As per usual, he did the same with star guard Kobe Bryant, only this time, Shaq headed to Miami. Dwyane Wade criticized Shaq after his production took a turn for the worst—due to injuries and age—and called him out during a news conference. Although the departure was not as quite as ugly as the previous two, there was certainly tension between the two All-Stars.

One statement is obvious: Cleveland would be a scary team if they acquired O'Neal. The one glaring weakness I could find in the '08-'09 Cavs team was lack of consistent and efficient big men.

I've already expressed my dislike for Zydrunas Ilgauskas, and Ben Wallace could possibly retire (he could also be part of the trade between Phoenix and Cleveland). Anderson Varejao will surely weigh offers he gets when roaming the free-agent market with the possibility of winning a championship in Cleveland. J.J. Hickson still has a lot to learn before becoming one of the Cavs' main big men in the rotation.

But one question that instantly went through people's heads when hearing this news was: Will Shaq and LeBron as a pair give Cleveland its first title in 45 years?

Let's take a look.

Top teams they have to defeat before being declared champs

Boston: The Celtics will be fired up and ready to go by the start of the season. They'll look to re-sign players such as Glen Davis, Eddie House, and maybe Leon Powe. Stephon Marbury may also stay in a green uniform if he doesn't demand too much money. The free-agent market is something they'll seemingly watch closely this offseason, as they too have a big-man problem.

They could also negotiate with Draft lottery teams in an attempt to snag a talented young player of their choice. Guys like Tyreke Evans and Hasheem Thabeet will be on Boston's radar.

The C's could also try to work something out in a trade, maybe receiving a small forward to back up the aging Paul Pierce in return. We all know he won't have as much stamina this upcoming season after recently completing a grueling season which included 81 regular season games and 14 playoff games. This should be one of the top things on Danny Ainge's to-do list, as Boston will have no hope of getting past teams like Cleveland and Orlando if it gets overpowered by Pierce's matchups (if re-signed, Hedo Turkoglu, LeBron James).

The Cavs, however, have some work to do themselves. The C's will seriously look to add a big man or two this offseason, which will add to their depth down low. With the Cavs already having a weak low-post game, Danny Ferry must look to secure a big man like Shaq or even Chris Andersen, whether it be from free agency or trading.

Orlando: Coming off its first Finals appearance since 1995, as well as its first Finals win ever, the Magic will look to come out strong next season. Orlando will undoubtedly feel confident, yet not cocky (thanks to Stan Van Gundy's close eye) coming into the season, and will use its swagger and fresh experience to hopefully (well, at least for Magic fans) rise above Eastern Conference rivals such as Cleveland and Boston.

Orlando's front office will make a serious push to re-sign forward Hedo Turkoglu. Turk has vastly improved over the course of the past couple seasons and has been recognized as a big part of the Magic's recent success. Every team needs their own clutch, go-to guy for late game situations, and Turkoglu has assumed that role. If he leaves, the Magic will have to work hard to fill that void.

Guard Anthony Johnson will presumably opt out of his player option to see what he can get for offers in the free-agent market. Restricted free agent Marcin Gortat will also attract a lot of attention because of his exceptional play throughout the season.

Defensive Player of the Year Dwight Howard gave Cleveland the most trouble during the Eastern Conference Finals, which doomed the Cavs to fall in six games. They will have to procure a big center such as Shaq to slow him down, or disappointment will once again settle in next May/June in Cleveland.

Atlanta/Miami: I'm sure this may come as a surprise to you, but considering the pickle Cleveland's currently in to please their fan base and LeBron James, they have to tackle every weakness that may be exposed against the top teams. And seeing that the Hawks and the Heat were the fourth and fifth seeds, respectively, these two teams should come to the Cavs' attention.

Dwyane Wade has assured Miami's front office and the Heat fans that he has no intentions of leaving Miami any time soon. Nonetheless, the Heat have indicated that they will try to place another All-Star alongside of D-Wade (preferably a big man). Chris Bosh has been mentioned in rumors, as he has very much shown interest in leaving Toronto.

Atlanta was without Josh Smith for a good chunk of the 2008-09 season, something they hope to be free of this season. They have been improving steadily for the last two years and intend on continuing their rise to power.

They don't have many important unrestricted free agents other than Mike Bibby, and there hasn't been any talk yet of him leaving Atlanta. The only restricted free agent that Hawks truly desire to keep is Marvin Williams, but again, I haven't heard anything about him leaving the Hawks organization. So they have plenty of room to play with when scouting free agents they could potentially sign.

Los Angeles: The Lakers might not have it on their minds right now, but they have some work to do this offseason. L.A.'s front office will put forth its best effort to hopefully retain Trevor Ariza and Lamar Odom, two key players that are currently crucial to the team.

Bryant has an early termination option he could perhaps exercise, but I don't see him doing that, seeing that the Lakers finally got him his sans-Shaq ring. He'd wouldn't leave now unless they had lost. Considering that all of them will probably be in a Lakers uni next year, L.A.'s squad will most likely look the same.

However, that is not saying that the Lakers will become any less dangerous of a team. Kobe Bryant is still in the core of his prime, and many of those around him are either very young and have room for improvement, are currently developing, or are in their primes, as well. The few that are old enough to call themselves "washed-up" rarely ever play and are primarily used for experience.

Shaq would once again aid the Cavs down low, and could be a key piece of the team when trying to slow down Laker bigs such as Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum.

Houston: Houston could either be better or worse than last year's team. Ron Artest is certain to explore the free-agent world, but in my mind, he will want to stay a Rocket. Yao Ming may never be able to stay healthy, as the last two seasons have suggested that he's injury prone.

Tracy McGrady was a Houston hero during the 2007-08 playoffs, as he was the one to step up and keep the Rockets in the race. But it was a different story this season. McGrady went down with a knee injury midway, preventing him from playing the rest of the season. I have no doubt that the Rockets will try to trade him this year, maybe to bring in someone like Vince Carter or Richard Jefferson.

The Rockets MUST re-sign Artest so they can have a sure-shot defensive anchor. Defense is one aspect of the game Houston thrives in, and if they don't have an above-average defensive team, it's very probable that the team will drop in the Western Conference rankings.

Like all the other teams analyzed, Houston has one advantage over Cleveland (at least for right now): size. If Shaq is seized by Cleveland, there is no way that Houston would be able to advance or win against the Cavs. O'Neal would smother Houston's most valued weapon—Ming.

Denver: At long last, the Nuggets found their point guard: Chauncey Billups. They made it past the first round for the first time in the Carmelo Anthony era, reaching the Western Conference Finals, where they fell in six games to the Lakers.

Denver's gang has achieved much more than they expected in the last year and is now looked at as one of the elite teams in the NBA. They have the talent to win a championship right now, and they will look to utilize that window of opportunity this season and the next couple of seasons by preparing in the offseason. They can do that by working more on the defensive end of the floor.

They upped their game defensively last year, as Chauncey Billups taught them the effect defense has and how helpful it can be in crunch-time situations. He's done that by praising to them that defense must become a precedence. There's no slacking off if you want to be a good defensive team.

The Nuggets will aim to re-sign Chris Andersen, who not only has become a fan-favorite, but a coach- and player-favorite too. His work ethic and passion for the game have made him a very good teammate and easy to coach the game of basketball to.

Teams that could quietly sneak up: New Orleans, San Antonio, Dallas, Philadelphia, Utah, Chicago.

Chemistry

As I mentioned before, Shaq has had some problems in the past when combined with other superstars. And there's no questioning LeBron's stardom. With that being said, how could Big Diesel affect the Cavs locker room?

LBJ has clearly molded the Cavs team well, something that propelled them to become dominant in the Eastern Conference. He will not give up his role as leader of the team and has a strong grip on his teammates. He can easily grab their attention or inspire them to play great despite their lesser talent.

With Shaq coming in, James will be in high spirits since Shaq's experience and leadership can be used as an example when LeBron is giving pregame speeches, half-time pep talks, or post-game lectures.

I don't think LeBron and Shaq will feud over who should get more shot opportunities like Kobe and Shaq did before they went separate ways. I'm sure Shaq has acknowledged the fact that James is one of the best players in the league, as well as the fact that he's not nearly the force he used to be.

But there's most definitely the likelihood of LeBron calling Shaq out. If he starts out slow, James may feel he can jump start the big man by encouraging him to play with more spark. Although it wouldn't be deliberately, James may insult Shaq instead of elating him. That's what seems to have happened with Dwyane Wade when he tried to get his teammate going. The King has to watch what he says, or he'll upset a beast who can nasty at times.

People won't deem the Cavs a lock for a title like they did during these playoffs, but they will surely be a scary contender.

One Month Every Bleacher Creature Should Experience

Graham — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 09:08:41 -0400

There's a time in every writer's life when they have to take a break from the art they love most (in case you don't know what I'm talking about, that "art" is literature/journalism/blogging).

They could be busy. They could be having a severe case of writer's block. Or they may be going through a period of time where they just have to find their place.

My problem? I was too busy.

I could barely find enough time to express my opinion on the team I love most—the Boston Celtics.

So I took a leave from Bleacher Report. And let me tell you, from a writer's perspective, it's one month I won't soon forget.

Why?

Because it was surprising to me how much I had learned about being a writer...without even composing a piece.

I was given quick pointers on how to improve. Without even writing a story. I expanded my vocabulary from reading a variety of articles. Without even writing a story.

And for those of you that have deliberately taken that "leave" before, you know what I'm talking about.

You want to write, but you can't.

You gaze at that POTD for a couple minutes, wishing it was yours but knowing that it can't be if you don't get back out there again.

So without further ado, I'll inform you of some of the tips I had learned throughout the time I wasn't active as a writer, as well as how it will help me develop as a journalist.

Writing a good comment is just as hard as writing a good article

With the addition of the "Great Comment" button below every comment, I've noticed how much people enjoy reading some of the knowledgeable and comprehensive (seriously, some of these comments are pretty tough to understand) feedback provided by the everyday commentators on Bleacher Report.

With that being said, writing a superb comment takes just as much brain power as writing a superb article.

Offering your thoughts and analysis on what somebody already stated (that is, if you agreed with the story) is a hard thing to do. You try to dig down to say something inspirational, but a lot of times it just isn't there.

Writing a good comment is just as rewarding as writing a good article

As you can see, the trend here is about comments and about reading others' articles. We'll get into that part later.

Once again, B/R's addition of "Great Comment" certainly enhanced this aspect of the commenting section. When you feel that writing articles is out of the question (whether it's time, confidence, etc.), constructing a good comment can be very rewarding. Sometimes, even on the same level as writing an article itself.

And like I mentioned above, it's a hard thing to do. But when you do manage to find that key sentence, that admirable paragraph, you feel it. You feel proud.

Positive or negative, writers like to receive feedback

Now, seeing that I'm already a writer, I should have picked up on this. And that's not saying I myself didn't love getting comments, but rather I myself not noticing other writers' joy when they pocketed a few thoughts from fellow sports nuts.

Despite all my urging for people to comment, my yearning for that one little bit of evaluation, I had never once thought what my comments meant to the composers of another article.

I had always thought my writing associates were disgusted when they saw the negative comments. Of course, there's those worthless, irrelevant comments that basically just insult the writer, and in that situation, the writer may feel upset.

But, I now know my companions and I are pleased when we get involved in a friendly discussion, and sometimes, a heated sports argument—if it goes beyond that, it's just another example of immaturity.

I guess what I'm trying to say is, I never saw it through another writer's eyes. I thought the comments merely reflected on me.

Reading an article can conjure up a lot of opinions and observations...when you're not in the midst of actually writing your own

Trying your hardest to write a piece actually worth reading can be stressful—sometimes, even overpowering.

When I wasn't writing articles here on Bleacher Report for the last month, I had had the chance to sit back and analyze some articles written by some of my closest friends and peers on the Internet.

What I had realized is that it's a lot easier to examine articles and brew up some of your own ideas/opinions/thoughts when you are not worried about finishing an article of your own; or even starting a new article voicing your opinion on the specific story you just read.

And the shameful part is, most people that have a passion for writing will not realize that for a long time—sometimes, never.

You appreciate work much more as a reader/commenter

Why? Because, once again, your not stressed out about posting your own top-notch work.

For some people it's different. And I know that when I return as a full-time writer here, sharing my appreciation for articles will continue.

For some, they recognized the efforts put in to making this article from the star, and had shown and will remain showing it by writing a kind, friendly comment.

For others, they may not ever find a way to express their gratitude.

The art of posting on another's Bulletin Board

Before beginning my intentional sabbatical, I had often posted on one another's Bulletin Board.

Many Bleacher Creatures go through this process over and over again in an attempt to get them to read a certain article. While many people consider it annoying (although I do have to admit, when I came back from a wedding a recently attended, I was not pleased to sit down at the computer and see the 10 or 11 articles left for me to read), I look at it as a good way of getting your name out there, as well as a good way for people to read your articles.

Remember, (most) Bleacher Creatures don't go around stalking every league page looking for specific articles they think they may be interested in.

Another reason many people leave notes and tidbits on others' Bulletin Boards is to get in contact with, obtain emails and IM screen names so they can talk privately, or just to have a discussion concerning a topic outside of the comments section.

Posting on someone's Bulletin Board can be very efficient and effective. The majority of the time, the rare, but still existing annoyance of BB's can be worth it.

How to easily get a POTD, but why it's still hard

Getting a POTD has always been my goal here. Unfortunately, I haven't accomplished that goal.

In the month or so that I was gone, I had read the multiple POTD awards handed out—day, after day, after day. And what I realized is, the formula for achieving a POTD is so incredibly simple—yet it's still so frustrating to write.

Here's why.

1. Finding a hot topic to go with a clever title is a must if you want to win a POTD

The dissection of a hot topic is what people want to read and comment on. If the writing is good enough, they'll sometimes even click that "Pick of the Day" button.

Coming up with a clever title is also essential in winning a POTD. The title and the picture are the only things shown to represent the article on the front page of the site, as well as on your profile.

If you have a funny/dramatic/questioning/thought-provoking title, you're sure to get some reads.

2. Writing an article that will generate discussion is necessary

This in some ways goes with reason No. 1, but has to do more with the body of the post this time.

Suggesting rousing possibilities, verbalizing the "homer side" of your opinions, and verbalizing the mature/non-biased side of your opinions are sure-shot ways of getting both loudmouth comments and praiseworthy comments.

3. Intangibles

Finding a lively picture is key in getting a POTD. The picture must be appropriately related to the article (don't post a picture of Tiger Woods when the article is about hockey) as well, as irrelevance just ruins the article, whether it's something you said or a picture you added.

Your article must also be equipped with the applicable tags as well. After all, tags are the main reason your article is read.

Editing your article is seemingly one of the most vital things to do before posting it. You're clearly not going to gain any POTD votes, fan adds, or respect if your article is riddled with grammar, spelling, and factual errors.

Taking a month off from writing here is one thing I'll remember if I ever become successful in the media world.

If you ever feel a need to improve in other ways than just your writing style, reading this or actually taking a month off yourself is something I sincerely suggest.

Celtics-Bulls Game Seven Recap: Buh-Bye Chi-Town, and Bring It on, Orlando!

Graham — Sun, 03 May 2009 10:22:03 -0400

The Celtics capped off an all-time great series last night with the win necessary to move on, and sent the Bulls back home. Chicago came out like they had a purpose, and like they had nothing to lose whether or not they lost the game.

Ben Gordon started off blazing hot, getting 10 points in the first quarter, and seemed to be on track for another 40-point night.

But Boston made some simple adjustments, and just like that, Gordon was held to 23 points the rest of the way, and finished the game 7-23.

Teammate Derek Rose was quieted a bit as well. Sure, 18 points off 9-18 is nothing to be ashamed of, but as a point guard, you cannot produce just three assists in 43 minutes when your team needs you.

Kendrick Perkins and Glen Davis dominated the paint, and kept their fouls to a minimum too (considering the refs were barely even acceptable). They combined for 29 points, 15 rebounds (13 of them Perk's), and seven fouls.

However, Perk didn't play his usual minutes because of a ridiculous technical foul called on him—the league better review that—with about 2:53 to go.

They also gave a technical to Eddie House, who was in the process of shooting a three while the Bulls bench seemingly started to yell and shout in his ear. Well, House made it, and then the refs gave a technical—get this—to EDDIE HOUSE!! House also was being slapped in the arm by an opposing Bulls player who was bull-rushing him at the time.

"The refs were atrocious. From the Hinrich trips-over-his-feet call on Pierce, to the technical foul on Eddie House after he got an earful from the Bulls bench to the technical foul on Perkins after he did absolutely nothing but grab his shoulder after getting hammered by Brad Miller - they were awful." -- Red's Army

But on a brighter note, House made more than just the three mentioned above. He was 4-4 from three-point land, and finished the game with 16 points. Him and Scalabrine, who had eight points in the first half, were two key factors in the C's victory.

And next, we play the Magic, in an attempt to move on to the ECF's, where we will most likely play the Cavaliers. Here's a super-quick preview...

Matchup I'm looking forward to -- Perk vs. Superman: It's going to be hilarious watching these two matchup. We all know Perk's normal face (he uses it for any emotion), and Dwight Howard's enormous smile, which causes him to be criticized for not being "serious enough." But really Dwight, you have to find a middle. Going from a little kid to purposely elbowing Samuel Dalembert in the face is a little much. Here, see for yourself...

Matchup we automatically win -- Ray Allen vs. Whoever the Magic play: This guy was just clutch shot after clutch shot for the Celtics, averaging 23.5 ppg in the playoffs.

Courtney Lee has some head issues to work out after being elbowed in the head by Dwight Howard (keep in mind this was an accident), and we're not even sure if he'll play in this series. He recently had surgery to repair his fractured left sinus cavity, and his return is "unclear."

Prediction -- C's in seven: Many people underestimate the value and importance Kendrick Perkins and Glen Davis have. If they can continue to play like they have, they should be able to at least prevent Dwight Howard from going off on the C's.

However, they would have an advantage down low with Howard, for even still he would be able to control the paint. Plus, Doc would most likely have to play them all game, every game.

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