Official NBA Thread

[holder_account]

Because we don't have one.

Cavs are getting spanked by the Wizards and it seems that with Arenas back, the rivalry continues. Denver is impressive in Indiana.

[tbod10]

I'm excited. I get NBA TV and the Lakers are playing the Thunder. Kobe vs. Durant should be fun.

I couldn't believe the Nuggets were only favored by 6 in their game against the Pacers. That is why I took the Nuggets.

[tbod10]

Also, 30/30 tonight on ESPN is the story of what actually happened to Len Bias the night he OD'd. This should be interesting.

[ddg]

the pacers have been known to keep games competitive, especially at home but it seems like the Nuggets are coming out hot this year.

Anyone notice that Jameer Nelson seems to be starting really slow, I haven't watched any games so I can't say for certain how he looks but studying box scores, he's really only played well in the Toronto game and I believe most of his work was all done in the 2nd half of that game.

[holder_account]

Orlando only plays good basketball in 1 half of the game. I'm hoping it's the second half.

Celtics pulling away, while the Cavs are pulling in closer.

Milwaukee is embarrassing Chicago at home, while Green has made 3 straight 3 pointers to keep the Thunder close.

[holder_account]

Also, Howard got in foul trouble early, so he's not contributing much to the game. I'm hoping he explodes in the 3rd without any fouls.

[tbod10]

This Len Bias story is really, really good. I can't watch the game until I finish watching this.

[ddg]

Brandon Jennings' shooting % is really surprising, usually shooting is the last thing that develops for really quick guards with slick handles like him.

This Lakers/OKC matchup is sorta driving me crazy, Bynum/Green are 2 of my big guys in fantasy NBA and they only have 1 rebound between them.

[tbod10]

Kevin Durant has gone off in the 2nd quarter. Thunder only down 7 now.

[holder_account]

Lol, I feel you ddg. I've got Green.

Anybody know if Howard got injured or something? Taken out with 10 mins in the 3rd. Didn't pick up another foul.

[holder_account]

I love the OKC/Lakers match-up.

[tbod10]

The Thunder are keeping this game close. I like this team.

[holder_account]

Celtics took care of business in the 2nd half.

[tbod10]

So did the Nuggets.

[holder_account]

And Howard picks up his 4th.

[Ckane138]

I hate how within my 8-day NBA League Pass free preview from Comcast there were only two Warriors games and they lost them both.

[chicagojay]

liking the thread, will try and post when the Sac games are on

[holder_account]

Some good games lined up today.

Artest back in Houston. Garnett back in Minnesota.

[holder_account]

Thoughts on tonight's games:

Pistons 99 - Raptors 110
Will Bynum is clutch. The Pistons are lucky he's there or else they would be blown out every night without Prince and Hamilton.

Phoenix 100 - Orlando 122
Orlando is scary. They will meet Boston in the Eastern Conference Finals for an epic matchup. Phoenix has only lost one game, but I will be surprised to see them in the playoffs. Maybe seeds 7 or 8, but doubtful. They don't have much of a bench.

Miami 93 - Washington 89
What a strange game. The lead was back and forth so much I stopped caring. D-Wade proved once again why he's a beast, while Washington will make the playoffs. Trust me. With Jamison back in the lineup, the Wizards will be a really tough team to beat. In fact, I see these two teams meeting in the playoffs with seeds 4 and 5.

Denver 122 - New Jersey 94
The Nets are worthless without Harris. Denver shot terribly and still killed. I am looking forward to see their matchups with the Lakers this year.

Indiana 101 - New York 89
Finally the Pacers get a win. If these two teams could trade players, you'd get one really good team and one really bad one. Right now you just have two mediocre teams with some good players.

Boston 92 - Minnesota 90
I'm a Celtic fan, but I will give all the credit in this game to Minnesota. They played their hearts out. I won't blame the Celtics for not playing well, but Minnesota played way better. I guess they're still mad we got Garnett. But hey, Celtics are 6-0.

Lakers 103 - Rockets 102
I may have to restructure my entire thoughts on the West. The Rockets are legit.

Dallas 107 - New Orleans 114
Chris Paul needs some help. How are you going to let the best point guard in the game carry an entire team by himself? Also, I love the Mavs, but they are losers and proved it once again tonight. They will never amass to anything.

Atlanta 113 - Sacramento 105
This game was rather boring. Atlanta is past its prime and the Kings have potential but won't get it right for a while. At least the Hawks covered for me.

Memphis 105 - Golden State 113
Identitcal score! I like Memphis. They are a young team that is going to cause some damage once they dump AI and get a real 6th man. Golden State needs to trade everybody, including their coach. I'm comparing them to the high school team no one wants to face because it's filled with students that are on meth, steal cars, fail classes, and are backed by an administration with its head up its own ass.

[ddg]

Some thoughts on some teams that played last night...

Pistons - They are a mess, all the talent is in the back court, they have 4 high quality guards, a really solid SF (Prince) and then a bunch of crap up front. Why did they sign Charlie V. he doesn't really seem to help them much.

Raptors - I like that they finally have an identity, I like a lot of their pieces, they should challenge for the 4 seed in the east.

Suns - I read somewhere, forget where, about how the Suns are really going to struggle in back to backs, which makes perfect sense, you look at Nash & Hill the brains of the team they both had poor games last night we should expect this going forward.

Celtics - Even tho I don't like the Celtics the thing that I really like about them is they bring the defense every night, its really good to see that teams like Boston & Houston bringing really good effort almost every night compared to the Lakers who only bring the effort when they want to.

T-Wolves - More of a fantasy observation but since I have Big Al I'll ask the question... Did he lose some of his advantages by losing his weight? His rebounding #'s are way down, I'm thinking his weight was part of the reason he was successful.

Rockets - As a Lakers fan the Ariza we saw last night was more along the lines of what I expected from him rather than his first few games, his offensive game really isn't all that good. The Rockets are getting maximum effort from everyone they are putting in the game, I'd like to believe that this can continue but I think it will be similar to 2 years ago when they won 22 in a row with a great team game but then crashed back down to earth.

Lakers - Lamar Odom had a horrific game, he started 1-9 and was missing easy layups of all kinds. I can't say I agree with Phil Jackson's rotations, he's normally putting in 4 bench players with either Artest or Odom to start the 2nd and 4th quarter, this team always gets killed but maybe he's got a grand plan later on.

Mavs - Wow did they blow that game last night, 3 point lead 10 seconds left and 3 FTs to extend the lead and they blow all 3? Not a good performance against a struggling Hornets team.

Hawks - I have to totally disagree with Holder on this one, East coast team going on such an early West coast swing winning on back to back nights against the Blazers and Kings is not an easy feat. Obviously Bibby is past his prime but all the other main players are growing or right around their peak. JJ & Josh Smith are at their peaks, Horford & Marvin Williams should be still growing some. Hawks are the leading candidate for the #4 seed I think.

Warriors - Sad thing about this is that most of the players are really good guys and really talented, the front office has screwed the team up so much with their stupid extensions (non-Captain Jack & paying Maggette a ton of money to be a bench player) and keeping Nelson around. Anthony Randolph is getting zero playing time, what is going on??!

Grizzlies - Ton of talent on this team, AI is a terrible fit Zach is ok. OJ Mayo would be the perfect fit @ PG for the Lakers time to make a call to Mr. Wallace in Memphis again.

[holder_account]

Our main disagreement is the Hawks. I think they reached their peak in 2007 against the Celtics in the first round.

I am inclined to say that the Wizards, Heat, and Bulls are better teams than the Hawks. I will not be surprised if the Hawks make it at #4 in the playoffs, but they will certainly not pass the first round unless they mature and fast. The win against the Blazers was impressive, but against the Kings? You have got to be kidding me.

[ddg]

Well winning on the road isn't easy even if it is the kings, Lakers struggled @OKC 2 days ago and Boston @Min as well yesterday. We'll see this Saturday how they do hosting Denver its the 2nd night of a back to back but I think they have a good shot to hand the Nuggs a loss.

The Jazz need a win bad tonight, Boozer has been terrible.

[flaming thumbtack]

greg popovitch in the 1st quarter interview:

Q: your team allowed 22 points in the paint how do you plan to correct that
A: try harder

you could tell he did not want to be there

[holder_account]

Well winning on the road isn't easy even if it is the kings, Lakers struggled @OKC 2 days ago and Boston @Min as well yesterday. We'll see this Saturday how they do hosting Denver its the 2nd night of a back to back but I think they have a good shot to hand the Nuggs a loss.

The Jazz need a win bad tonight, Boozer has been terrible.

Historically, OKC has been a pain for LA, as well as Minny has been for Boston.

[Matt McGuire]

Changed the name of the title - thought it might be more appealing so we can get more participation.

Guys, fantasy question. Should I trade Russell Westbrook? Great source for assists, steals, and rebs, but he never shoots 3s and has been a turnover machine.

Just wanting to get your input - I'm somewhat of a rookie at fantasy this season. His overall ranking is 152 on Yahoo.

My team is completely balling points wise. Overall, I'm first in my league, but the stat that is killing me is turnovers.

I'm thinking about offering Russell Westbrook and Branden Haywood for Al Horford and Chris Duhon

Thoughts on this trade?

[chicagojay]

Whenever ive seen it Westbrook been tearing it up. He absolutely destroyed us last week (not hard)

what are the trade options?

[Matt McGuire]

His Roster with Al Horford



My Roster - let me know if I should even consider the trade, I just consider Horford a valuable commodity that can lesson my TO's and up my blocks and rebs with a consistent 11 ppg night.

[Matt McGuire]

Another option is I could offer Westbrook and Haywood, then stash Blake Griffin to my roster and wait out his injury - when he comes back he will get 15 pts, 8 rebs, 1.5 blks per night with a great FG%.

[2 kewl 4 U]

[Matt McGuire]

^^^^
Now I know what NNC meant by saying that post counts are really big - because I could care less.

What is the point of that? Like we don't know the Bulls are an NBA team or something? lol

[2 kewl 4 U]

What is the point of that?

bullz are the best

[ddg]

In Yahoo leagues where turnovers counts, its almost a given that you will lose Turnovers if your team is any good because all the best players have the ball a lot thus they have lots of turnovers.

If you want more 3's I would consider aiming for Jet or J.R. Smith, they will give you way more 3's than Duhon and look at Duhon's abysmal FG%. Maybe you can also aim for Troy Murphy as a good buy low candidate, he's a great source of 3's and rebounds.

[Matt McGuire]

You told me about Ryan Anderson and I picked him up - he's awesome for 3's especially as a big man. thanks for the tip

Do you think I should make that trade ddg? (Duhon+Horford for Westbrook+Haywood)?

[holder_account]

Will he take a trade like that?

[ddg]

If he accepts it then go for it, Horford is far and away the most steady and productive out of the bunch. The difference between Horford and Haywood is much bigger than the difference in Westbrook & Duhon but give it a shot.

[Matt McGuire]

Offered the trade we'll see if he accepts.

LBJ playing great ball right now...nice D by hughes but he drains the 3. Looks like LeBron will have a huge night.

[holder_account]

Both NBA.com and Yahoo NBA are screwed up. Gah!

[Matt McGuire]

Yeah...everything is O's on my live scoring fantasy - i noticed that.

[ddg]

i'll go ahead and take back the praise i gave the hawks and celtics, lol.

some upsets tonight with CHA over ATL, PHX over BOS, MIA over DEN, IND over WAS.

for my fantasy league I got a trade sitting waiting for my acceptance I get Dampier + Felton for Channing Frye but I need to wait for my current trade of Josh Smith + Luol Deng for Kevin Durant (to me) to go thru so I don't have to drop anyone. I hope Frye's crappy performance tonight doesn't make him cancel the trade.

[Matt McGuire]

Dwayne Wade must have locked down Billups or something - 6pts, 2 asst, 5 to.

My boy Melo still balling - 30 and 8 rebs

Brendan Haywoood BALLED - 19 rebs and 4 blks. Canceled that Al Horford trade haha maybe i'll offer it later.

Ugh - Lou Williams/Lee trade not looking to good so far.

Lee had 8 pts, 2 rebs, 2 asst, 2 stls. Williams had 18 pts, 9 rebs, 6 asst, 2 3Pters, and 0 turnovers.

Ugh - he is a 12 ppg guy in the past seasons....wtf is going on?

[Matt McGuire]

Knicks within 9 WOW. Knicks have been playing very good offensive ball like JVG said, just not hitting shots. Mike D'Antoni is a great coach - this situation isn't his fault.

[Matt McGuire]

Yeah...def cancelling the Westbrook trade.

31 pts, 7 ast, 1 stl, 5 rebs...5 to's but the other lines are money.

[Matt McGuire]

Fantasy pickup: Houston F Carl Landry.

Check out his stats

http://scores.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=3217

EDIT: damn he's already picked up in my league...i'm in a tough league

[ddg]

yeah those were monster games by haywood & westbrook.

Landry has an excellent offensive game but he's a defensive liability so sometimes he won't get the minutes otherwise he'd be a great fantasy player.

Spurs are getting blown out again guess they are gonna wait til the new year to start playing for real again.

[Matt McGuire]

Portland let SA get back into the game...poor leadership by Andre Miller - he needs to lead the offense and distribute to Brandon Roy.

[holder_account]

Williams was meant for a breakout season.

Saw Charlotte upset coming. 3rd straight road game for the Hawks in Charlotte, where even the Celtics struggle.

Celtics looked tired. They blew it on D, which is why they lost the game.

[chicagojay]

Suns may just be for real, they still look soft, but last night was a pretty big statement win

[Matt McGuire]

^^^^^
Come on. Jason Richardson went 6-7 from 3PT range - a huge reason why they won. The Suns bench is a joke - they aren't legit. Last night was a fluke.

[chicagojay]

i know but that Celtics team was balling and i had the Suns down as a mid league team, similar to last year. All im saying is that they're definatly legit as playoff contenders

[holder_account]

This was the first run and gun opponent that the C's have had this season. They'll adjust their Defense.

The Suns will be lucky to make it to the playoffs / stay healthy.

[Matt McGuire]

Yeah I think the Suns could get a 7-8 seed, but their bench will kill them as the year goes on - just watch.

They'll have a couple injuries and they will level off.

[holder_account]

West Projected Seeds:

1. Lakers
2. Nuggets
3. Spurs
4. Denver
5. Dallas
6. Houston
7. Utah
8. OKC

[chicagojay]

you've got Denver at 2 and 4 there Holder

[ddg]

The Suns just got hot shooting last night but I think now they are a solid contender for a playoff spot which i didn't believe before. Lakers, Nuggets, Spurs, Blazers, Mavericks are sure bets for the playoffs but i think there are 5 teams competing for the last 3 spots: Jazz, Hornets, Suns, Clippers, Rockets.

Sorry about the Martin injury chicagojay, he just can't stay healthy.

[chicagojay]

we're so screwed, Kevin Martin out for 8 weeks. i.e our only good player

id be amazed if we win a game in these next 8 weeks.. honestly

hopefully we bring Beno Udrich in at the point and slide Tyreke Evans over to the 2. Doubtful to happen though..

its gonna be a long couple of monthes

[Matt McGuire]

Sabby Telfair is balling right now for my clipps. Really distributing and making good decisions - has a solid A/T ratio for the season.

Love ChannelSurfing.Net - great site to watch your fav nba games.

[ddg]

we're so screwed, Kevin Martin out for 8 weeks. i.e our only good player

id be amazed if we win a game in these next 8 weeks.. honestly

hopefully we bring Beno Udrich in at the point and slide Tyreke Evans over to the 2. Doubtful to happen though..

its gonna be a long couple of monthes

looks like your wish came true, awesome game by evans.

[Matt McGuire]

Thank you Kevin Martin for getting injured - I drafted Tyreke Evans in 8th round for a reason! Balleritis.

The Lou Williams trade was so stupid - I honestly had no idea who that guy was. i didn't know he went to the NBA straight out of HS.

I'll learn from it - I'm a rookie this year from NBA fantasy.

I think Courtney Lee will turn it around, but Williams only has 4 turnovers on the year with 26 assists - insane ratio. Should have picked up on that.

Dumb trade, but I'm still banking on winning my fantasy league or at least finishing in the top 3. Oh well, at least it isn't for money and all in good fun.

Love NBA this year - don't know why. Fantasy got me into it and I'm so hooked. I used to have a bias against the NBA because I didn't like the style of play (a ton of iso - no motion like in college) but it has grown on me.

edit: Can't stop thinking about how elite my team would be if Blake Griffen hadn't gotten injured and i didn't trade Lou Williams. Oh well, #1 in my league, can't completely complain. live and learn

[holder_account]

I told you on Louis Williams!

Meant to put Portland at #4.

I'm getting killed in Fantasy this week.

[Matt McGuire]

Holder,

why did you like Louis Williams? I'd like to learn from you in fantasy NBA. thanks.

[chicagojay]

haha, as if that happened. Despite our best attempts to choke it away in the 4th we still won. how epic.

Tyreke just exploded last night, really really impressive. Hopefully he'll continue to see more time at the 2

[chicagojay]

I dont mean to alarm anyone but Sacremento may just win two in a row tonight, Golden State in our building is one of the better chances we'll have all season. Come on Kings!!

[ddg]

i hope you guys cream GS, its a travesty what Don Nelson is doing there. Matt just check out Lou's per minute production this year and last year its pretty close, this year he's just getting more minutes with andre miller gone.

[Matt McGuire]

^^^^
yeah you are right - but he did bomb today so hopefully he stays this inconsistent.

[holder_account]

Holder,

why did you like Louis Williams? I'd like to learn from you in fantasy NBA. thanks.

The last 2 seasons he has been backup to Andre Miller in the 76ers, and still he was putting up impressive numbers in limited minutes.

This year, he's in command of the team. No one else but Andre will pass on that team, so Williams should dish out some good assists. He's also a natural scorer.

[Matt McGuire]

Like I said want to learn from you guys as much as I can. Loving the NBA this year - can't get enough of it! Had no idea I would like the NBA this much.

[holder_account]

The NBA is toooons of fun.

Kobe is a beast this year. 26 points in the half against the Hornets. He'll likely finish with 40+ again.

Feel free to ask any questions. I know NBA 10x better than NFL.

[Matt McGuire]

Awesome...good stuff.

I know you live in Vegas - I think that city is perfect for an NBA team. Reminds me of LA and would have a ton of celebrities at home games.

[Matt McGuire]

My boy Tyreke Evans put up 28 pts, 8 rebs, 2 asst tonight.

He is so much better at the 2. If I were the Kings I would seriously consider trading Kevin Martin mid-season.

Westbrook had a good game - 17 pts, 10 asst, 5 rebs, but 5 to's. I'll live with the turnovers with a well rounded stat line like that.

Both my C's put up double doubles or close to it (10/9 for Okafor, 10/10 and 5 blks for Haywood!)

Lambarcus Aldridge also put up 19 and 10 tonight.

NBA = kicks ass

[holder_account]

We should start a fantasy league through Yahoo Sports.

I can create it and we can have the draft on Wednesday.

[Matt McGuire]

Naw dude I barely have time for my own league. 2 fantasy NFL teams and 1 fantasy NBA is PLENTY. Plus I am busy with school, watching tape, writing for the site, other stuff, etc. Too much on my plate.

Can you tell me why the Wizards have lost their last 4? I don't get it. 2-5 out the gate I thought they would be much better.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/teams/schedule?team=was

[holder_account]

Alright, no worries. I didn't get many responses when I tried earlier anyways.

The Wizards are missing Jamison, and they are still trying to get chemistry.

[Matt McGuire]

Do you think they lack talent defensively? How good are Caron Butler and Gilbert Arenas on D?

[holder_account]

Butler is great on D. Mike Miller also helps, and Haywood is a beast. They won't win any games with Defense, which means they won't get too far in the league.

But once Jamison returns, and they get their rotation straight, they will be a threat in the West. In fact, I'm projecting them to land in #5, 6, or 7 in the playoff race. If they face Miami, Chicago, or Cleveland, they could upset them.

That's assuming that they get their mojo on. They have a very, very talented team.

[Matt McGuire]

Trading the #5/6 pick for Randy Foye and Mike Miller was a complete steal imo.

They don't need Rubio (Arenas) and I would much rather have Foye over Stephen Curry.

[holder_account]

I agree 100%.

If the Wizards get a better bench (right now, they just have Foye and Blatche), and stay healthy, they will make a lot of noise.

[Matt McGuire]

Sebastian Telfair has played great offensive ball this year, but he is killing us on the defensive end reports ClipperBlog.com

ClipperBlog.com also says we don't have a chance of getting LeBron, so I guess I'll forget that pipe dream - but I think we are still a darkhorse.

Holder, where do you think LBJ will end up? CLE, NYJ/Brooklyn, NYK, or other?

[ddg]

Yeah the Wiz should be fine getting a into the playoffs, they are without Miller and Jamison right now, they don't have championship material but they should be very competitive when everything gels together.

Matt are you really a Clipper fan? I've actually watched 3 whole clipper games so far this season I think, the talent is there even w/out Blake to make the playoffs. Kaman has come out of nowhere this year, he didn't have the shooting ability nor the basketball IQ last year, its quite shocking.

Its too early to tell where LBJ is gonna go, he's toying with the NBA, if I had a guess I think he stays in Cleveland. I think teams that are planning the future of their teams on landing a big time FA are incredibly stupid, all but tow or three of them are gonna end up disappointed. Things are looking good for the clips w/ or w/out LBJ.

How bad do the Hornets look? I don't even think they have a good shot of making the playoffs.

OKC destroying Orlando was a huge shock, If Orlando continues to have these mental lapses they might be in trouble, I expect a young team like that with something to prove to come out and perform not get humiliated by a poor team.

[holder_account]

OKC is a top 5 team at home. Just ask the Lakers. I had them ML tonight and they delivered, but I didn't expect that blowout.

Kaman got over his fear of shooting. He's always been great, but his injuries have always held him back. And Matt, don't take this the wrong way, but **** the Clippers. I have a bet with a buddy that the Thunder will get more wins than the Clippers.

I honestly don't care where LBJ lands, but I'm almost sure he'll stay in Cleveland. If he ventures out it'll be to NJ, but most of what you read/hear in the media is crap. I still don't think he will ever win a title.

The Hornets are a lost cause. They have CP3 going for them, and that's it. The rest of the roster is one big injured list. They won't make the playoffs this year, and in all honesty, the only hope they have is landing a free agent next season. Chris Bosh teamed up with CP3 sounds like a killer duo.

[chicagojay]

wow, 2 out of two with Tyreke at the 2. last night was great. it's not secret Gsw dont play any d but 120 points for this team is still really impressive..

Udrich was really good last night, taking what was given to him and balling..

Kings could have a 1-2 for ROY the way this is going. Capissi was 4-6 from the 3 point line and also had 10 boards and 5 assists. He's going to be a big player

I like what Matt said about K-Mart, this team wont be productive whilst he's on it, he's a great player but we need Tyreke at the two. Next year im praying for John Wall but if not Greg Monroe would be perfect a PF. We still need a center but so do about 20 teams in the league

[Centurion]

Doesn't Miami have the cap for both D-Wade and LBJ? I think, if he leaves, he's going to Miami.

[Matt McGuire]

^^^^
http://hoopshype.com/salaries/miami.htm

Miami will be at about 45-50 million w/ LeBron and barely any other money to sign other players.

Miami is a darkhorse, but it looks like Brooklyn and the Knicks are the favorites.

I have to put Brooklyn as the favorites. New York City is the mecca of basketball and they have a better supporting cast for LeBron plus Jay-Z and a badass Russian owner with deep pockets.

[ddg]

I'm wondering if Casspi would be a good pickup for my fantasy team, I need Rebounding and 3s, I haven't seen any Kings games, who does Casspi play like? Seems like his 10 boards were a fluky performance last night, is he like a Peja?

[holder_account]

He's like Peja, yea. I've considered picking him up, but I just don't know who to drop. My team should be killing, but instead I just lost 8-1.

This is my roster:



So annoyed right now cause it's a really good team, but I lost EVERY category except for steals.

[mpg1995]

I just picked the Sixers to lose in streak for cash, was that smart?

[holder_account]

I have no idea what that means.

[ddg]

mpg, i think its a safe pick, altho this is the last game of a 5 game road trip for the Suns so there maybe a let down.

Holder, you got some really solid players but I think one problem you have is that with all your guards you are going to lose FG% all the time but then you have Dwight and Oden who will kill your FT% so you'll basically lose those 2 categories every time. I'm guessing the only category you won would be assists. If I was in your position I would punt FTs and package some 2 for 1's with your guards. Something like OJ Mayo + Stuckey (low FG%) for a high volume post player with good FG%, Pts, Rebs and hopefully blocks. Brook Lopez I think would be a good target, also if you are punting FTs I would try like all hell to get Josh Smith he's a monster for blocks and steals while giving above average rebounding, assists, and scoring.

I'll post my team later on for some input.

[holder_account]

Oddly enough, Oden has done great in FT's so far. Better than Stoudamire. I do need to get rid of at least one PG for a better low post player of SF.

[Vbsiena]

Yay I found a stream of the Knick/Jazz game

[mpg1995]

I have no idea what that means.

ESPN streak for cash is a fantasy game on ESPN, sorta like survivor in a way just more sports and if you lose you can start a new streak

[holder_account]

Oh sweet, I did not know that. I will check it out.

Thanks.

Amare needs to wake the **** up.

[Matt McGuire]

Omri Casspi is more like a scrappy swingman than Peja. he's good on defense and plays with a good motor - doesn't seem like the fantasy type

[ddg]

I'm thinking of moving Jameer Nelson, he's not really producing the big numbers I thought he would and when VC comes back it should become even tougher to put up #'s.



I have a trade processing which is Channing Frye for Erick Dampier and Raymond Felton. This league has FGM instead of FG% and also has OREBS & DREBS as opposed to just REBS. My rebounding is pretty weak but I don't know if I have enough 3's to compete if I lose Frye & Nelson. I won 8-2 last week, losing FT% and TOs but I'm up against the guy I'm tied with for first right now this week.

[ddg]

btw what is going on with the offense this year this spurs/raptors game is in the 90s at the end of the 3rd...

[Matt McGuire]

Channelsurfing.net is giving bad streams for the clippers game - it skips every once in a while

[Matt McGuire]

found one

http://www.rwbsports.com/ch3.html

[ddg]

ouch, really missing Gordon tonight, Kaman is the only efficient scorer out there.

[Matt McGuire]

Yeah...Al Thornton is playing okay, but we just don't have the defense to miss Eric Gordon.

I read a blog the other day that analyzed advanced stats to show how Gordon's shot selection and defense is extremely underrated.

Not only can he shoot the lights out and score, but his basketball IQ is off the charts.

[holder_account]

I will agree. Gordon + Griffin are the Clips future. If they were smart, they would trade Baron Davis for a younger point guard.

[Matt McGuire]

It's hard to move Baron Davis' contract. If we were smart we never would have signed him for that much.

[holder_account]

Which shows just how smart the Clippers are.

[ddg]

Baron Davis' contract wasn't horrible when he signed it, he was in the argument for top 5 point guard at the time but yeah its impossible to move his contract now. The Clippers are in a good spot right now, once Blake comes back the team has a great starting 5 and quality backups.

[Matt McGuire]

I'm hoping the Clippers draft someone like Patrick Patterson from my Wildcats. Would give us good strength, rebounding, and talent off the bench.

We need a better small forward and better defense from the Bench.

Still hoping we get LeBron, but I doubt that happens.

[ddg]

I'd like to see the Clippers draft a SF who can defend the wings well with a good outside shot. The other 4 spots are pretty much locked up just need to fill in that 3 spot, DeAndre Jordan should be able to fill Camby's void when he leaves next season. Smith is a decent backup PF alternative.

[Matt McGuire]

Our bench needs improvement too though...we don't have that difference making 6th man.

Also, BDiddy is too inconsistent.

[holder_account]

What a finish to the Bulls game.

[chicagojay]

lol, 3 in a row, Sacremento is winning the title. We've now beaten too playoff teams (Okl, Uta) and held the most explosive scoring team in the league down..

last night was a strong performance from the starting 5 and our sixth man Cassipi, quitely Jason Thompson is having a dominant year.

Tyreke Evans is the man :cool:

[ddg]

since when was OKC a playoff team? 3 wins a row is really great tho congrats.

[Matt McGuire]

since when was OKC a playoff team? 3 wins a row is really great tho congrats.

Kevin Durant
Jeff Green
Russell Westbrook
James Harden

They have a talented enough core to get a 7 or 8 seed. Problem is Westbrook turns the ball over too much.

[holder_account]

OKC's problem is that they don't have even one veteran on the team. They have to figure everything out for themselves.

[Matt McGuire]

^^^^^
That's a good thing. They will grow together.

[tbod10]

The Nets move to 0-8 on the year. I knew they wouldn't be good, but I guess when you lose Deven Harris, Courtney Lee, and Chris Douglas-Roberts at the very beginning of the season due to injury/illness, not much can be expected. Brook Lopez is the only reason they're even competitive right now.

[Matt McGuire]

New Jersey can def turn it around. I think Frank is a good coach but going with a 3 man bench doesn't make any sense.

[tbod10]

They have a bunch of young players, so there's no need for a really deep bench. Also, most of their bench is full of crap. Terrence Williams, Rafer Alston, and Bobby Simmons are the only decent role players they have. Josh Boone is kind of serviceable.

They have a lot of young talent. I think CDR is going to really surprise people in the next few years by becoming a very solid player.

[Matt McGuire]

Kevin Durant scares me. I think he'll put up 40+ on my Clips tonight. :(

[tbod10]

Kevin Durant is going to evolve into a superstar this year. The guy has all the tools. I always thought the Blazers were foolish for drafting Oden over him.

The Clips unfortunately have nobody that can even closely matchup with him. So, yea, you might be right in predicting a big game for him tonight.

[Matt McGuire]

I thought taking Oden was the right move. His size, defense, rebounding, and potential offense in the post was insane. However, we didn't know about his durability concerns until after he was drafted - literally. Remember he needed microfracture surgery right after the draft?

The Trail Blazers had already drafted Brandon Roy, so that's why they passed on a SG/SF in Durant.

In hindsight, taking Durant was the better move.

Really reminds me of the Trail Blazers passing up on Jordan too, but even then they had Clyde Drexler and needed to replace Bill Walton.

[tbod10]

The problem I saw with drafting Oden over Durant was not only the injury history, but there was no way of knowing how good Oden could ever be offensively. He isn't an athletic freak like young Shaq or Dwight Howard, and he hasn't shown he can be as smooth and fluid as Hakeem.

I guess, I just always thought his offensive game would have a very low ceiling even without considering his injury history.

Durant just always seemed like the more sure thing to be able to carry a franchise. The Blazers would have been perfectly fine with Roy at PG/SG and Durant at SG/SF.

[ddg]

the blazers also have Martell Webster and Travis Outlaw at those positions. They made the right pick given the situation. Oden still has time to develop, Dwight Howard's offensive game isn't that great and he's been in the NBA for 5 years already.

[Matt McGuire]

Mike Dunleavy is such a moron.

His lineup rotation was utterly stupid. He didn't rest Chris Kaman at all until 40 minutes into the game.

Then at one point he had Baron Davis, Al Thornton, DeAndre Jordan, Rasual Butler, and Craig Davis on the floor at the end of the 3rd. This just completely killed us.

He's just a terrible head coach. He has no clue what he is doing and needs to be canned after the season. I can't believe he has lasted this long.

Go look up Bill simmons twitter! I bring truths to the WF.com forums.

Tough game to swallow. Only scored 79 pts against the Thunder. Just disgusting. Baron Davis played a GREAT game, but Kaman was average and OKC defended him well. Nobody else stepped up offensively.

We really need Eric Gordon and Griffin back. I pray we win the lottery to draft John Wall.

[holder_account]

I saw the game and felt both squads played terrible.

LAC has a terrible coach. OKC has no veterans (Ollie doesn't count). If you give OKC a good post veteran, ala Vlade Divac, you'll see a major turnaround.

[Coherent]

OKC Is solid, BJ Mullens just needs to work out for them in the long run for them to be successful. But they have a nice core in Westbrook, Harden and Durant. Maybe they get in on the 2010 Free Agent class and make a big signing.

[Matt McGuire]

I highly doubt Mullens works out in the long run. Seems like that "So much potential but doens't love the game" type of bust in the NBA.

OKC doesn't need Mullens to turn out they just need to make a couple good FA signings and spend some money to be honest.

Westbrook needs to become a better ball handler and decision maker as well.

[holder_account]

Their core of Westbrook, Durant, Green and Harden will be great one day, but they need someone to help them out.

[chicagojay]

When did the Nuggets become so exposed? they're leaning on their two superstars so much this year its unreal. They better hope J.R smith has this 'breakout year' or im going to downgrade them

[TomBrady]

Denver is a completely different team at home then on the road. They are a superior home team but a sub-par road team.

[ddg]

Chauncey is getting old, his style isn't like Nash where he creates, Billups has to create and deliver the points. This is the Denver team i was expecting at the beginning of the season.

[chicagojay]

Yeh i know what you mean.. Kenyon Martin is having a weak year aswell. Nene is a decent 3rd/4th option but you get the feeling sooner or later Melo is really gonna have to put this team on his back

[ddg]

Atlanta looking good since the bobcats debacle.

[Matt McGuire]

How did the Clippers lose to the Raptors? What a joke. I mean don't get me wrong we don't have Blake Griffin or Eric Gordon, but still. We have Baron Davis, Chris Kaman, Al Thornton and a solid bench.

[Matt McGuire]

When did the Nuggets become so exposed? they're leaning on their two superstars so much this year its unreal. They better hope J.R smith has this 'breakout year' or im going to downgrade them


Yeh i know what you mean.. Kenyon Martin is having a weak year aswell. Nene is a decent 3rd/4th option but you get the feeling sooner or later Melo is really gonna have to put this team on his back

Feel free to eat crow about the Nuggets chicago jay.

[PuppyPuncher]

How did the Clippers lose to the Raptors? What a joke. I mean don't get me wrong we don't have Blake Griffin or Eric Gordon, but still. We have Baron Davis, Chris Kaman, Al Thornton and a solid bench.

You have Chris Kaman and a solid bench.

Raptors have Chris Bosh who's having an incredibly underrated season, Jose Calderon who can distribute the ball, Hedo Turkoglu who makes situational shots when you need him and a plethora of guys who can come off the bench and shoot the three.

[holder_account]

The Clippers have a lot of talent, but 0 organization because their coach sucks balls.

[chicagojay]

I am eating alot of crow right now. Denver was great last night. I still have my doubts but yeah they're definatly a top team

In other news the Lakers bench is terrible

[holder_account]

I am eating alot of crow right now. Denver was great last night. I still have my doubts but yeah they're definatly a top team

In other news the Lakers bench is terrible

Thank you for noticing that. When Gasol comes back, they'll have Odom for depth, but not much else.

[ddg]

The bench for the Lakers is full of system players, Outside of Kobe/Artest/Bynum/Odom/Gasol the rest of the players should be 8 or 9th men on a roster.
However, last night had nothing to do with the bench, the Lakers were extremely lazy, on defense they were committing fouls instead of moving their feet and once they got down by 10 they threw in the towel, they didn't even attempt to muster the effort required to make a comeback.

Ty Lawson is going to be great for the Nuggs, steal of the draft so far.

[chicagojay]

Omri Cassipi says hi

[holder_account]

Shalom, Omar!

[ddg]

holy crap Brandon Jennings, I know its the Warriors but WOW.

[holder_account]

55 pts, 5 reb, 5 asst, 4 to on 21-34FG with 7 3pt's?

As a ****ing rookie?

[holder_account]

2 OT games and no one's talking?

1) I was surprised that the Hawks let the game slip away as far as it did, but they took care of business in OT. Joe Johnson gets major props.

2) The Magic struggled, particularly Howard, who was in foul trouble again. I was also surprised to see Diaw playing so well after his friend was traded. This game caught me off guard.

3) Another OT game between two sleeper teams. The Mavs shouldn't have let the Bucks come back, but kudos to Dirk for finishing the game the way he did. Anybody digging the nickname "Comeback Kid" for Jennings?

[Matt McGuire]

Haven't had time to watch any NBA games online this week or watch highlights. School is KILLING me, but after this week when I get my psych paper done and my lesson plans done, it is all downhill until finals - i hope.

[ddg]

I guess I was right on the Hawks, they are performing damn well. The Eastern conference is better than the Western conference right now, when's the last time we could say that...

[holder_account]

Absolutely agree, ddg. I was wrong on the Hawks.

[chicagojay]

Holder checked out the power rankings..

couldnt read the top 12 because that Twitter thing is blocking them

[holder_account]

Hm...I'll let Ryan know about it.

[Matt McGuire]

Carl Landry is ballin for the Rockets. Check out his game log.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/gamelog?playerId=3217

27 points, 9 rebs, 0 turnovers tonight for the Rockets. Just a player fantasy buffs and NBA fans need to keep an eye on.

[2 kewl 4 U]

The Kings suck.

[chicagojay]

or had a bad night against your pernially overated Chicago team..

[2 kewl 4 U]

We're not overrated at all. wtf are you talking about? And you guys have too many white guys to be good.

[ddg]

We're not overrated at all. wtf are you talking about? And you guys have too many white guys to be good.

wtf are you talking about? I count 6 on this team. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1996_chicago_bulls#Roster) 5 of which got significant playing time.

[2 kewl 4 U]

wtf are you talking about? I count 6 on this team. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1996_chicago_bulls#Roster) 5 of which got significant playing time.

that was 14 years ago

[ddg]

that was 14 years ago

so your saying despite all the European influence in the league now the quality of white players is worse now?

how about this?


6 again here, with 4 playing significant minutes.

[2 kewl 4 U]

so your saying despite all the European influence in the league now the quality of white players is worse now?

how about this?


6 again here, with 4 playing significant minutes.

This team has a guy who is really, really good at basketball (Kobe Bryant, who is African American). The Kings don't have a guy who is good at basketball like him (and no, Tyreke Evens does NOT count. He's garbage)

[ddg]

This team has a guy who is really, really good at basketball (Kobe Bryant, who is African American). The Kings don't have a guy who is good at basketball like him (and no, Tyreke Evens does NOT count. He's garbage)
You said the Kings had too many white people to be good, not the Kings don't have enough good players to be good. I'm just pointing out that your statement is completely false.

[2 kewl 4 U]

You said the Kings had too many white people to be good, not the Kings don't have enough good players to be good. I'm just pointing out that your statement is completely false.

Every smart person knows that only black guys are good at basketball. The only reason why there are like three white guys in the NBA is cuz of money.

[holder_account]

Every smart person knows that only black guys are good at basketball. The only reason why there are like three white guys in the NBA is cuz of money.

Let us forget about Bob Cousey, Jerry West, John Havlichek, Larry Bird, Steve Nash, and the rest of the white players.

Honestly, you're an idiot.

[2 kewl 4 U]

Let us forget about Bob Cousey, Jerry West, John Havlichek, Larry Bird, Steve Nash, and the rest of the white players.

Honestly, you're an idiot.

Wow dude those guys played at least 100 years ago. Black people back then were just learning how to play basketball and most didn't even know how to even swim.

Oh, and Steve Nash is Canadian, not white.

[holder_account]

Matt, would you mind kicking this idiot out of here?

[2 kewl 4 U]

Matt, would you mind kicking this idiot out of here?

What did I do to earn a ban? If anyone should be banned, it should be you for calling another poster an "idiot."

[holder_account]

What did I do to earn a ban? If anyone should be banned, it should be you for calling another poster an "idiot."

I would typically agree with you, but in this case, you are an idiot.

Look at your posts. 100 years ago the NBA didn't exist. Players not being able to swim has nothing to do with basketball. Not to mention that your posts are ridiculously racist.

[2 kewl 4 U]

I would typically agree with you, but in this case, you are an idiot.

Look at your posts. 100 years ago the NBA didn't exist. Players not being able to swim has nothing to do with basketball. Not to mention that your posts are ridiculously racist.

What if I just admit to the obvious trolling so this thread doesn't get totally off track like every other thread ever created on here? I didn't really believe in any of that stuff I just said. I just wanted to get under chicagojays skin (he's not even from chicago) but ddg took it way to seriously and I couldn't resist. So I apologize if anyone's butt was hurt

[chicagojay]

We're not overrated at all. wtf are you talking about? And you guys have too many white guys to be good.

we nearly beat Boston in the playoffs (ignoring the fact they had a zillion injuries).. We're awesome.

[chicagojay]

What if I just admit to the obvious trolling so this thread doesn't get totally off track like every other thread ever created on here? I didn't really believe in any of that stuff I just said. I just wanted to get under chicagojays skin (he's not even from chicago) but ddg took it way to seriously and I couldn't resist. So I apologize if anyone's butt was hurt

lol shoot me down.

and Tyreke Evans >>>>> than any Bulls player cept Rose

[chicagojay]

I would typically agree with you, but in this case, you are an idiot.

Look at your posts. 100 years ago the NBA didn't exist. Players not being able to swim has nothing to do with basketball. Not to mention that your posts are ridiculously racist.

dont hate the ignorant, pity them

[Sitisfit]

lol shoot me down.

and Tyreke Evans <<<<<< than any Bulls player cept Rose

wrong direction

[2 kewl 4 U]

lol shoot me down.

and Tyreke Evans <<<<<< than any Bulls player cept Rose

so every Bulls player except Rose is better than Evens? Allllllllright

[2 kewl 4 U]

we nearly beat Boston in the playoffs (ignoring the fact they had a zillion injuries).. We're awesome.

yeah dude the same Boston team that nearly knocked off the current Eastern conference champs in the playoffs

[Cicero]

Brandon Jennings on tv in < 15 minutes.

[chicagojay]

yeah dude the same Boston team that nearly knocked off the current Eastern conference champs in the playoffs

All the playoff seeds in the Eastern conference were banged up last year except for Cleveland and Chicago

Chicago is overated if anyone expects anything more than the #7 or #8 seed from them

[2 kewl 4 U]

All the playoff seeds in the Eastern conference were banged up last year except for Cleveland and Chicago

Yeah every team has at least couple banged up players after playing an 82 games season, but that has nothing to do with it. Chicago almost beat Boston, who took Orlando to game seven. So saying that we're overrated for nearly beating a Kevin Garrnett-less team even though they almost knocked of the current Eastern Conferance champs is bull hockey.


Chicago is overated if anyone expects anything more than the #7 or #8 seed from them

All right, that's fair enough. But I do believe you're just saying that because I'm a Bulls fan and you don't like me.

Also, tell the Kings I said thank for giving us Salmons and Miller. Without them, we wouldn't have made the playoffs and had that extreamly exciting series with Boston. It really sucks that there are many good players like them rotting away on terrible teams like the Kings.

[chicagojay]

Lol, i dont have a problem with you, i never have. Im simply responding to you trying to call me out.. even though i did nothing to you.

im glad we got rid out dead weights like Salmons and Miller, we dont need them

[2 kewl 4 U]

Salmons and Miller...deadweights? Uhm but wat?

[Matt McGuire]

Clippers playing great so far. Tyreke Evans with 29 pts, 10 asst, 7 rebs.

Another big win for the Hawks over the Rockets. Who saw it coming?

[holder_account]

Not surprised by the Hawks game. In fact, I'm surprised the Rockets kept it that close at the end.

Great games by the Magic, the Raptors, the Bucks and the Clippers before they let it go in the end.

WTF moment of the night: Dallas and Sacto combined for 73 points in the 4th quarter.

[ddg]

Bucks at 7-3 is amazing, most people thought they'd win less than 20 in the whole season.

Heat are falling back to earth after their strong start, not enough talent on that team.

I really thought the Wizards were going to be good this year, guess I was dead wrong on that.

Its early but those were bad losses by the Nuggets & Blazers, can't lose to bottom dwellers that have been struggling recently like that.

[Matt McGuire]

Tyreke Evans averaging 24 ppg in his last 6 games - the Kings just need to trade Kevin Martin at trade deadline. Evans is too good to play point and he can't play point all that well. He needs to be on the wing.

[holder_account]

I second your point, Matt. He should be traded for a quality post player.

The Wizards will get their groove back and have a great run. Remember, the Thunder are very tough at home.

[chicagojay]

As a Kings fan i agree. Does Kevin Martin have much value though? he's seemingly never healthy

I do agree we have to keep Tyreke Evans at the 2

Last night was a really tough game but on balance Dallas deserved to win, they've got a great bench

Beno Udrich having a really underated year.. i like whats he's doing alongside Evans.

[chicagojay]

Last night was bad man, We went back to not been able to close in the 4th quarter, thats killing us man. On a positive note.. Omri Cassipi!!!

I dont think we're as dependent on Tyreke as the Bucks are on Jennings, but its pretty close

[holder_account]

What the f*ck is going on with the Celtics sucking, the Hornets rocking, and the Thunder being ridiculously inconsistent?

[Vbsiena]

The Celtics sucking makes me happy. I mean the Knicks almost beat them!

[ddg]

can anyone fill me in on this Nate Robinson thing? Saturday the replays i seen show him taking a shot at his own basket at the end of the 1st quarter but it wasn't like he was trying to put up points for the other team, it seemed like a practice shot to me. However it seems like everyone is up in arms about it.

[holder_account]

Louis Amudson

[studbucket]

The NBA is such a crappy sport compared to the NFL. The NFL has Vince Young, what does the NBA have?

Yinka Dare, aren't you two the same guy?

[studbucket]

What the f*ck is going on with the Celtics sucking, the Hornets rocking, and the Thunder being ridiculously inconsistent?

Is it really that surprising the Zombie Sonics are inconsistent with how young they are? That team is growing up together and still learning who they are IMO.

[chicagojay]

Could Kobe of scored a more ridiculous 26 points last night, crazy

[Matt McGuire]

The behind the basket shot was really sweet. I loved his Jordan-esque lay up too

[Matt McGuire]

Trading Lou Williams really hurt my team...he is killing it. I'm so stupid but I'll learn since I am an NBA fantasy rook.

[chicagojay]

most underated player in the NBA - Monta Ellis

[chicagojay]

any idea why Dallas player kept clenching their fists towards the sky after scoring a basket last night?

[AllDaWay]

most underated player in the NBA - Monta Ellis

most underated player in the nba - Luke Walton :p

[holder_account]

Ellis does a decent job.

Gerald Wallace goes unnoticed a lot.

[chicagojay]

Kevin Martins not underated. We're doing better with a rookie at the 2. Martins a great shooter, not much else. i hope he gets traded.

I just love how many different ways Ellis can score, he has the most range after Kobe Bryant Imo..

he's also the only Warrior to play D

[chicagojay]

David Lee is pretty underated aswell.

I love the direction the Kings are headed in. We have one all star and one solid contributer from our draft.. two exciting young big men and it looks as if Donte Greene might become that reliable sixth man. Exciting times

[Ckane138]

Nets are about to fall to 0-16 with the next two against the Lakers and Mavs, so if they predictably lose both of those I think they'll break the record.

[holder_account]

If the Nets don't beat the Mavs, they have a very, very realistic chance of going 0-28 before meeting the Timberwolves in what is sure to be the worst game of the year.

[chicagojay]

I <3 Tyreke Evans and Omri Cassipi

[chicagojay]

<3 Sergio Rodriguez.

Just out of curiousity where would you guys rate Sacremento as a home team

[holder_account]

Top 10

[chicagojay]

thought so, what about Paul Westphal as a coach?

[Vbsiena]

The 3-14 Knicks are crushing the 14-3 Suns. WTF?!

Bizarro World?

[Matt McGuire]

The crazy thing is the Suns are shooting 48% from the field - isn't like they are having a bad night shooting or anything.

[Hunter]

Melo with 17 in the first half, hope he hits 40 tonight.

[Matt McGuire]

Melo is on my fantasy team. I'm glad to see a superstar talent reach his potential because he was lazy in the past. He deserves a ton of talent for getting into shape and working hard in the offseason.

[Hunter]

Melo is on my fantasy team. I'm glad to see a superstar talent reach his potential because he was lazy in the past. He deserves a ton of talent for getting into shape and working hard in the offseason.

Same, too bad Golden State is too bad to make him stay on the court.

He's been one of my favorite players in the league for a while and now that he has improved his work ethic I think he will start getting even more respect. He is one of, if not the, most complete (doesn't mean the best, but he is a threat to score from EVERYWHERE) offensive players in the league.

[Matt McGuire]

A great fantasy free agent pickup is Milwaukee F Ersan Ilyasova. He played in EuroLeague the past 2 seasons but has really picked it up with the Bucks.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/gamelog?playerId=2767

I'm really glad I added him on my team because he provides good versatility at SF and PF for your squad.

[tbod10]

Kevin Durant is tearing it up once again. The offensive arsenal this guy possesses is right up there with LeBron, Kobe, Wade and Melo

[tbod10]

Also the Nets are now 0-18...FML as a Nets fan.

[Matt McGuire]

Haha yeah LeBron isn't going there - no way in hell.

You can always become a Clippers fan tbod!

I really am starting to get sold on Chicago and the Clippers as the darkhorses for the LeBron Sweepstakes.

Cleveland losing in the playoffs will put a bad taste in James' mouth if they don't make the NBA Finals.

That really leaves the Knicks as the heavy favorites (at least that's what it seems like), but if LeBron isn't sold on their organization he could come play with Baron Davis, Eric Gordon, Blake Griffin, and Chris Kaman.

Hmmm...the Knicks or a Davis-Gordon-LBJ-Griffin-Kaman starting 5? Easy decision if you want to really win a championship.

[SanchezMVP2009]

nets are 0-18

[tbod10]

You can always become a Clippers fan tbod!

I really am starting to get sold on Chicago and the Clippers as the darkhorses for the LeBron Sweepstakes.

That really leaves the Knicks as the heavy favorites (at least that's what it seems like), but if LeBron isn't sold on their organization he could come play with Baron Davis, Eric Gordon, Blake Griffin, and Chris Kaman.

Hmmm...the Knicks or a Davis-Gordon-LBJ-Griffin-Kaman starting 5? Easy decision if you want to really win a championship.


I don't think he'll ever want to share a town with Kobe. That's just what I think though. The Knicks have 2 pieces currently that are enticing to LeBron. Gallinari and David Lee. Gallinari has the potential to be a Dirk type of player and Lee is just a solid low post player.

The key for the Knicks will be if they can land another decent size free agent. Someone like Joe Johnson or Steve Nash.

All that being said, I think he stays in Cleveland.

[holder_account]

Kaman wants out of Clippers.

[chicagojay]

I saw that, gutted Matt. I suppose they would be able to facilitate it if they got a good offer. Its not like Marcus Camby would be a bad replacement.

Good win for Sac last night.. Tyreke Evans is one of only two players to be averaging 18.0 points 5.0 rebounds and 4.5 assists. The other... LeBron James

[ddg]

where'd you guys hear about kaman wanting out? that's actually a good move for the clippers I think, Kaman played well to begin the season to resurrect some of the value they can get in return for his bloated contract. He's the only core player on the team that wouldn't fit in an uptempo style of play, the other good players would thrive in the fast paced game.

[Matt McGuire]

I haven't heard anything about Kaman wanting out and I wouldn't trade one of the top 4-5 centers in the NBA for anything. I doubt we could find a small forward of equal value. I know the Pacers would never give up Danny Granger.

[ddg]

we've sorta had this convo in the Noah Thread but Kaman is not rated that high I don't think.

Definitely Better:
Yao Ming (Injured but still better)
Dwight Howard
Andrew Bynum
Greg Oden

Probably Better:
Brook Lopez
Nene
Al Horford
David Lee

In the same neighborhood:
Marc Gasol
Joakim Noah
Andrea Bargnani
Andrew Bogut
Emeka Okafor

If you also consider money, Kaman's contract is much larger than many of these guys. The trade I'd like to see is Kaman for Tayshaun Prince, roughly the same yearly salaries, fills a position of need and Tayshaun only has 2 years on his contract left vs. 3 for Kaman.

[chicagojay]

Tayshaun Prince for Chris Kaman seems a little lopsided.

[ddg]

Tayshaun Prince for Chris Kaman seems a little lopsided.

really? i can't even figure out which side you think its lobsided for.

[Matt McGuire]

Greg Oden isn't better than Kaman. He doesn't have Kaman's elite post game or jump shot for a center.

[ddg]

a lot of people don't have Kaman's shooting ability nor some of his post moves (dwight howard) but Oden is a top 3 defensive center already, Kaman is nowhere near Oden defensively. Go check out the stats Kaman plays 12 more minutes per game but only has an edge on points, Oden has a slight edge in rebounds, more blocks, better FG & FT%. Oden is going to be a legit top center if he can stay healthy.

[chicagojay]

I think Prince is a really decling player. He'll still get it done on D like few others in this league but his offensive game is decling rapidly

[chicagojay]

anyone else catch the Lakers Heat game last night?

Really good game, im amazed Miami managed to stay in it for so long

[holder_account]

Greg Oden isn't better than Kaman. He doesn't have Kaman's elite post game or jump shot for a center.

His post game is not elite by any means.

Oden isn't better...yet.

I read the article on Yahoo that said Kaman wouldn't mind to be traded to Detroit cause he grew up in the area.

[holder_account]

anyone else catch the Lakers Heat game last night?

Really good game, im amazed Miami managed to stay in it for so long

Yea. F*cking Kobe.

[chicagojay]

I dont think as a Miami fan you can have any complaints about that. Yeh they ended up losing in a tough way but there were lucky to be in that situation in the first place.

[Matt McGuire]

I think Prince is a really decling player. He'll still get it done on D like few others in this league but his offensive game is decling rapidly

I agree. Tayshaun's agility will go down soon and that will hurt him on defense. He isn't worth his contract because he will never average anything more than 15 ppg - no upside. I don't want him on my Clippers.


I read the article on Yahoo that said Kaman wouldn't mind to be traded to Detroit cause he grew up in the area.

A Kaman to Detroit trade wouldn't work. The value isn't there for the Clippers to make a move.

[chicagojay]

Maybe Kaman for Rodney Stuckey?

[Matt McGuire]

Maybe Kaman for Rodney Stuckey?

1) That isn't fair value at all. Plus, we don't need a backup PG (Telfair) or backup SG (Sool Butler).

2) The contracts don't work out. I did it in trade machine and Kaman's contract is too big for it to work.

3) If you have a top tier center you don't let him go. That would be a HUGE mistake.

Stuckey doesn't bring anything to the table that the Clippers don't already have. He is a mediocre PG and he isnt' a better scorer than Eric Gordon.

He'd help us a lot off the bench at the SG position (he isn't a better distributor than Bassy) but that's it.

What Kaman does in the post when Eric Gordon is healthy is simply deadly. Kaman commands double teams and we won't trade him. No chance unless it is for a very very good player in return like Luol Deng.

[holder_account]

I doubt they would make the trade, Kaman was just being Kaman. Remember when he played for Germany in the Olympics? He's just a weird guy.

And I'm not a Heat fan, I'm a C's fan. I just hate the Lakers. I respect Kobe as the tremendous athlete that he is, but f*ck has he broken my heart (the Lakers more than just him) too many times.

[chicagojay]

Yeh i knew you were a Celtic fan, i was just making a general observation

[chicagojay]

Wow, so instead of using Andres Noicini as a defensive enforcer and just as a simple shooter on the offensive end, we feed him constant 3 attempts which of course he ****ing misses.

[Ochocinco]

nets

[kaution]

knicks 4 wins ina row........we doing things in ny baby

[Clutch92]

<- Frustrated Washington Fan

Anybody want caron butler? Anybody? :X

[chicagojay]

Washington @ Sacremento 16th

could get ugly.

Right now i fee like we have 2 out of the best 3 rookies in the league

[holder_account]

Washington @ Sacremento 16th

could get ugly.

Right now i fee like we have 2 out of the best 3 rookies in the league

Really?

I'll give you Evans, but Omar is not top 3 at all right now.

Jennings
Flynn
Lawson
Harden

All are doing better.

[Matt McGuire]

I think the Kings need to trade Kevin Martin.

If I were them I would offer the T-Wolves Martin for the rights to Ricky Rubio. It seems like a smart trade for both sides. The Wolves need a scorer at the 2 and the Kings need a true PG some time down the road.

[chicagojay]

I like that trade alot Matt, id need reassurances that Rubio would come over and play though.

Holder trust me. Omri has much better D than any of those guys and is your typical do all the small things guy

i'd take him over Harden and Lawson in terms of value to the team this year. As for Johnny Flynn he is very turnover prone

[Matt McGuire]

I would take Casspi over Harden too because you don't need another shooting guard - but that doesn't mean he is better than harden.

[holder_account]

Casspi is good, but he's not great. I'm not hating on the guy (after all, he's the only Israeli in the NBA), I just see better players ahead of him.

Evans and Jennings are no brainers. Flynn has been great, even with the turnovers. Lawson has been an excellent backup for the Nuggets. Hell, even Stephen Curry is playing better.

And don't look now, but Matthews is heating up in Utah.

I don't like that trade between the Kings and Timberwolves. Rubio is too much of a risk at this point to trade away Martin. Martin should be traded to a team like the Heat (for Beasley maybe).

[Theheartweeps]

Philly, Charlotte, and Houston are ideal places that could use Kevin Martin.

Maybe a D.J. Augustin and 1st round pick for Kevin Martin deal, or something like that could work.

[holder_account]

That would be a pretty good trade for both parties.

Maybe even Tyrus Thomas for Kevin Martin. Gives Chicago the shooter they miss and gives the Kings a versatile Forward.

[ddg]

problem with all these trades you guys are proposing is that the salaries don't match.

What do you guys think about this trade...

Sacramento Gets:
Carlos Boozer (PF - Utah) 1 yr/$12.3M
Brian Scalabrine (PF - Bos) 1 yr/$3.4M

Boston Gets:
Kevin Martin (SG - Sac) 4 yrs/$9.6M
Andres Nocioni (F - Sac) 3 yrs/$7.5M
Matt Carrol (SG - Dal) 4 yrs/$4.7M

Dallas Gets:
Ray Allen (SG - Bos) 1 yr/$18.7M

Utah Gets:
Josh Howard (SF - Dal) 1 yr/$10.8M

Why I think this trade works for everyone:

Sacramento if they are able to resign Boozer would win this trade IMO because they get Boozer to fill a position that's iffy and Scalabrine's contract is expiring. They also part with 2 huge long term contracts in Nocioni and Martin giving huge flexibility with cap space.

Boston takes this trade because they get a player they wanted last year for their bench (Nocioni) and a younger cheaper better SG to replace Ray Allen in Martin. ESPN's trade machine estimates the Celtics to be 10 wins better this year if this trade happens. The downside tho is that they are taking on 3 long term contracts, which gives very little cap flexibility.

Dallas upgrades Josh Howard into Ray Allen while dumping Matt Carroll's bad contract, this is a no brainer on the part of the Mavs.

Utah gets the least out of this deal probably but they do save 1.5 Million + 1.5 Million luxury tax for a total of 3 Million by swapping Boozer (they were never going to resign) for Josh Howard but their ownership has been dying to find a place to cut payroll and this would definitely do the trick. With this they could slide Millsap in the starting lineup, whom they signed to a long term contract, or put AK47 @ PF and keep Millsap on the bench.


Lineups after trade:
Sacramento:
Starters: Udrih, Evans, Casspi, Boozer, Thompon
Bench: Rodriguez, Greene, Hawes, Garcia (when he comes back)

Boston:
Starters: Rondo, Martin, Pierce, Garnett, Perkins
Bench: House, Nocioni, Wallace, Williams/Davis (when he comes back)

Dallas:
Starters: Kidd, Allen, Marion, Nowitzki, Dampier
Bench: Terry, Barea, Gooden

Utah:
Starters: Williams, Matthews, Howard, Millsap, Okur
Bench: Maynor, Miles, Kirilenko

I don't think any team would say no to this trade. Utah fans would be upset but the $3M is a lot for a team trying to avoid the luxury tax.

[chicagojay]

I would take Casspi over Harden too because you don't need another shooting guard - but that doesn't mean he is better than harden.

he's had a better year than Harden thus far IMO


Philly, Charlotte, and Houston are ideal places that could use Kevin Martin.

Maybe a D.J. Augustin and 1st round pick for Kevin Martin deal, or something like that could work.

no thanks.


That would be a pretty good trade for both parties.

Maybe even Tyrus Thomas for Kevin Martin. Gives Chicago the shooter they miss and gives the Kings a versatile Forward.

no thanks, We have JT at the 4 at Thomas isnt very good. JT >> Thomas


problem with all these trades you guys are proposing is that the salaries don't match.

What do you guys think about this trade...

Sacramento Gets:
Carlos Boozer (PF - Utah) 1 yr/$12.3M
Brian Scalabrine (PF - Bos) 1 yr/$3.4M

Boston Gets:
Kevin Martin (SG - Sac) 4 yrs/$9.6M
Andres Nocioni (F - Sac) 3 yrs/$7.5M
Matt Carrol (SG - Dal) 4 yrs/$4.7M

Dallas Gets:
Ray Allen (SG - Bos) 1 yr/$18.7M

Utah Gets:
Josh Howard (SF - Dal) 1 yr/$10.8M

Why I think this trade works for everyone:

Sacramento if they are able to resign Boozer would win this trade IMO because they get Boozer to fill a position that's iffy and Scalabrine's contract is expiring. They also part with 2 huge long term contracts in Nocioni and Martin giving huge flexibility with cap space.

Boston takes this trade because they get a player they wanted last year for their bench (Nocioni) and a younger cheaper better SG to replace Ray Allen in Martin. ESPN's trade machine estimates the Celtics to be 10 wins better this year if this trade happens. The downside tho is that they are taking on 3 long term contracts, which gives very little cap flexibility.

Dallas upgrades Josh Howard into Ray Allen while dumping Matt Carroll's bad contract, this is a no brainer on the part of the Mavs.

Utah gets the least out of this deal probably but they do save 1.5 Million + 1.5 Million luxury tax for a total of 3 Million by swapping Boozer (they were never going to resign) for Josh Howard but their ownership has been dying to find a place to cut payroll and this would definitely do the trick. With this they could slide Millsap in the starting lineup, whom they signed to a long term contract, or put AK47 @ PF and keep Millsap on the bench.


Lineups after trade:
Sacramento:
Starters: Udrih, Evans, Casspi, Boozer, Thompon
Bench: Rodriguez, Greene, Hawes, Garcia (when he comes back)

Boston:
Starters: Rondo, Martin, Pierce, Garnett, Perkins
Bench: House, Nocioni, Wallace, Williams/Davis (when he comes back)

Dallas:
Starters: Kidd, Allen, Marion, Nowitzki, Dampier
Bench: Terry, Barea, Gooden

Utah:
Starters: Williams, Matthews, Howard, Millsap, Okur
Bench: Maynor, Miles, Kirilenko

I don't think any team would say no to this trade. Utah fans would be upset but the $3M is a lot for a team trying to avoid the luxury tax.

excellent post, a real possibility. Whilst i wouldnt say no to it i'd be a bit iffy about moving JT to centre but it could work in the short run

[Matt McGuire]

4 team trade? Seems to unlikely - great ideas though seems like it would work.

Have you tried putting it into espn.com's trade machine?

[ddg]

excellent post, a real possibility. Whilst i wouldnt say no to it i'd be a bit iffy about moving JT to centre but it could work in the short run

What Sac could also do is start Hawes at C and have JT come off the bench and have 2 of Hawes/Boozer/JT at PF/C combo at all times like the Jazz do now with Okur/Boozer/Millsap.


4 team trade? Seems to unlikely - great ideas though seems like it would work.

Have you tried putting it into espn.com's trade machine?

yeah 4 team trades are very rare but I was just intrigued by all the trades thrown out there.

I did put it in the trade machine but I can't figure out how to link to it for the life of me but the trade works out.

[chicagojay]

hmmm intresting, I dunno thought. I wouldnt say no to Boozer but id rather we went after a PG

[holder_account]

Trading Ray Allen for Kevin Martin would be the dumbest mistake of the century.

[chicagojay]

why? Kevin Martin is amazing and younger.