2011年3月9日星期三
10 Mar 11 IRS Increasing Enforcement Activity
IRS Increasing Enforcement ActivityBy: Sawyer Adams .... Click author's name to view profile and articles!!!Retargeting by ChangoTweet Expect the Internal Revenue Service to increase its tax collection activity. This follows IRS action in the past couple of years of issuing more levies and scrutinizing particular types of tax returns. The of an Enrolled Agent (EA) are being more valuable to a greater number of taxpayers.More Money and AuditsFor fiscal year 2010, Congress has allocated $12.2 billion to the IRS. Much of that is intended for enforcement efforts. The IRS enforcement budget for this year is $5.5 billion. The prior fiscal year was among the most productive in IRS history regarding collection efforts.There were approximately 1,425,000 audit examinations of individual tax returns in fiscal year 2009. The total number of audits for individuals increased only slightly in 2009 pared to 2008. However, audits of taxpayers with ine of $1,000,000 or more increased significantly last year. The chance of an individual return being audited for taxpayers with more than $1,000,000 of ine was 6.42 percent. Audits of individual tax returns for those with ine of $200,000 or more have increased substantially in recent years. The percentage of taxpayers audited who had ine of $200,000 or more in 2009 increased to 2.89 percent pared to 2.57 percent in 2006. Essential to this demographic are necessary from more individuals entering theenrolled agent program.Audits of tax returns for S corporations increased about 40 percent in 2009 pared to 2005. While the number of audits has increased significantly, the percent audited has not increased nearly as much. The percentage of S corporation returns that were audited last year was 0.4 percent. For partnerships the audit rate was 0.38 percent.Enrolled agent continuing education (CPE) will focus more on business tax returns.More Levies and LiensThe IRS also filed more than 3 million bank levies and nearly 1 million tax liens in the fiscal year that ended September 30, 2009. In fiscal year 2008, the IRS issued 2,631,038 levies on bank accounts, wages and accounts receivable. That was an increase of 1,197 percent over 2000.Timely response to an IRS notice is critical. Failure to respond results in assumption of notice accuracy by the IRS. The next IRS action is a notice to levy bank accounts. Knowledge obtained in thecontinuing education of enrolled agents is called upon for accurate response to the multitude of IRS notices.Taxpayers need professional help for many IRS notices. This is a consequence of so many notices pertaining to business ine and expenses that involve checking detailed records. It doesn't make sense to hire an expensive tax attorney for smaller issues. However, whether a matter is big involves some subjectivity. Professional help bees increasingly important as the IRS appeal system bee more plex and difficult.EA CPE is addressing how the resolution process is constantly changing. So a tax resolution specialist brings considerable value.More PeopleEven before this year's extra $12.2 billion from Congress, IRS staffing of enforcement personnel was on the rise.The number of revenue officers, revenue agents, and special agents in fiscal year 2009 was 21,059. That was a 4.2 percent increase over fiscal year 2005. Taxpayer representation will require more individuals to obtain [EA certification].In addition, IRS missioner Doug Shulman has announced the creation of a specialized unit to focus on wealthy Americans with plex business organizations whose legal mechanisms may "mask aggressive tax strategies."Article Source: abcarticledirectoryFast Forward Academy is a leading publisher of enrolled agent cpe and continuing education for tax professionals. Access to free ea cpe is available on their website.Note: The content of this article solely conveys the opinion of its author, Sawyer AdamsRetargeting by ChangoDid You Like This Article? Share It With YourFriends!Please Rate this Article 5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5 Not yet Rated Click the XML Icon to Receive Free Articles About Auditing via RSS!Additional Articles From - Home Accounting AuditingWhat you need to know about Auditing from the experts.- By : john newportCulture and business proposition- By : foxhatsNavigating Miscellaneous Itemized Deductions- By : Sawyer AdamsAbout The National Association Of Enrolled Agents (NAEA)- By : Sawyer AdamsThe History Of Enrolled Agents- By : Sawyer AdamsThe Canon Sd780is Black Silver Gold Red - Very Nice Christmas Gift- By : ArticleSubmit AutoDestination Military Surplus Products- By : Ali Khan5 Tips For Getting The Right Health Insurance For Your Needs- By : danica12 Quick Tips For Eye Shadow- By : Ali Khan10 Simple Steps To A Clearer Skin- By : Ali Khan Still Searching? Last Chance to find what you're looking for. Try using Bing Search!
2011年3月5日星期六
5 Mar 11 The Cheapest And Fastest Way To Advertise On The Internet
The Cheapest And Fastest Way To Advertise On The InternetBy: Daniel Alan .... Click author's name to view profile and articles!!!Retargeting by ChangoTweet Posting on forums is one of the cheapest and fastest ways in which you can advertise affiliates products on the Internet. However, in order to do this successfully, you must do a number of things carefully.Warning! Simply starting a thread that contains an affiliate link might be a good way to get banned from a particular forum board, but it will never be a good way to make sales.The general procedure involves making NHL Shop
multiple posts on a forum board before you even setup a signature file, which includes a link to your site. Even if the particular forum you are using does not specifically mandate this, you will want to do this, anyway, as it will increase your credibility, which is your real goal.You can start by finding a number of forums for your particular niche or marketing angle.Now, once you have found a number of directories that match your specific marketing angle and affiliate product, you will want to investigate to determine whether or not they have excess rules regulating signature files.For instance, some sites do not allow any links in signature files; others, by contrast, allow links, but do not allow any commercial links. Make sure you know what the rules are before you post. Otherwise, you are simply setting yourself up to be banned from the forum.Next, take the list of forums you have created, that are both relevant to your topic and allow commercial links and begin developing a reputation on those forums. Post regularly, avoid meaningless fights and flaming, and contribute useful, on-target information to discussions. In a matter of 1-2 weeks, you will have developed a reputation, provided that the forum receives a considerable amount of traffic.Once you have developed a good reputation, you will want to begin advertising through your forum signature. Ideally, you will want to include some eye-catching assortment of colors, symbols, and words in your signature.This will draw people's attention. You will then want to link them to something other than an affiliate page, whether it be a page you created to sell an affiliate product or an auto responder course used to capture email addresses.Remember to repeat this process in all applicable forums. Look for high traffic forums that allow commercial link Philadelphia Flyers jersey
posting in signature files and that also happen to fit with your specific audience-targeting and marketing angle goals.Next, create a reputation. Last, add your signature in some attractive way that draws visitors' attention, but is also likely to convert them into interested clickers. You will find that this form of advertising pays off considerably and does so faster than other methods available.Article Source: http://www.shop-on-sale.com Daniel Alan is the creator of the Perfect Path To Wealth system and an expert at making money online.The Perfect Path To Wealth Affiliate Program is one of the best choices for affiliate marketing offering $33.90 per sale, which is a 75% commission. It is one of the best converting programs around and is free to join.Note: The content of this article solely conveys the opinion of its author, Daniel AlanRetargeting by ChangoDid You Like This Article? Share It With YourFriends!Please Rate this Article 5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5 Not yet Rated Click the XML Icon to Receive Free Articles About Affiliate Programs What Cloth Diaper Provides The Top Match For Newborns?- By : mirtagaylWhat is Affiliate Marketing and Why You Should Do It?- By : James A AndersonEarning Money Quickly With Email Marketing - True or False?- By : Flyers jersey
chad buistMoney Creating Tips For Individuals Involved In An Online Affiliate Marketing Home Business- By : Johnny BarrellGlobal Success Club And How To Make Money Online- By : Don SeanMake Cash Over The Internet With Affiliate Marketing- By : Leroy WheelerWhich Affiliate Networks To Look Out For When Promoting ?- By : Elsa Braxton Still Searching? Last Chance to find what you're looking for. Try using Bing Search!
multiple posts on a forum board before you even setup a signature file, which includes a link to your site. Even if the particular forum you are using does not specifically mandate this, you will want to do this, anyway, as it will increase your credibility, which is your real goal.You can start by finding a number of forums for your particular niche or marketing angle.Now, once you have found a number of directories that match your specific marketing angle and affiliate product, you will want to investigate to determine whether or not they have excess rules regulating signature files.For instance, some sites do not allow any links in signature files; others, by contrast, allow links, but do not allow any commercial links. Make sure you know what the rules are before you post. Otherwise, you are simply setting yourself up to be banned from the forum.Next, take the list of forums you have created, that are both relevant to your topic and allow commercial links and begin developing a reputation on those forums. Post regularly, avoid meaningless fights and flaming, and contribute useful, on-target information to discussions. In a matter of 1-2 weeks, you will have developed a reputation, provided that the forum receives a considerable amount of traffic.Once you have developed a good reputation, you will want to begin advertising through your forum signature. Ideally, you will want to include some eye-catching assortment of colors, symbols, and words in your signature.This will draw people's attention. You will then want to link them to something other than an affiliate page, whether it be a page you created to sell an affiliate product or an auto responder course used to capture email addresses.Remember to repeat this process in all applicable forums. Look for high traffic forums that allow commercial link Philadelphia Flyers jersey
posting in signature files and that also happen to fit with your specific audience-targeting and marketing angle goals.Next, create a reputation. Last, add your signature in some attractive way that draws visitors' attention, but is also likely to convert them into interested clickers. You will find that this form of advertising pays off considerably and does so faster than other methods available.Article Source: http://www.shop-on-sale.com Daniel Alan is the creator of the Perfect Path To Wealth system and an expert at making money online.The Perfect Path To Wealth Affiliate Program is one of the best choices for affiliate marketing offering $33.90 per sale, which is a 75% commission. It is one of the best converting programs around and is free to join.Note: The content of this article solely conveys the opinion of its author, Daniel AlanRetargeting by ChangoDid You Like This Article? Share It With YourFriends!Please Rate this Article 5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5 Not yet Rated Click the XML Icon to Receive Free Articles About Affiliate Programs What Cloth Diaper Provides The Top Match For Newborns?- By : mirtagaylWhat is Affiliate Marketing and Why You Should Do It?- By : James A AndersonEarning Money Quickly With Email Marketing - True or False?- By : Flyers jersey
chad buistMoney Creating Tips For Individuals Involved In An Online Affiliate Marketing Home Business- By : Johnny BarrellGlobal Success Club And How To Make Money Online- By : Don SeanMake Cash Over The Internet With Affiliate Marketing- By : Leroy WheelerWhich Affiliate Networks To Look Out For When Promoting ?- By : Elsa Braxton Still Searching? Last Chance to find what you're looking for. Try using Bing Search!
2011年1月24日星期一
24 Jan 11 College Football Pick East Carolina at North Carolina 10-2-10
Andrew Burton/Getty ImagesEast Carolina Pirates at North Carolina Tar Heels (-12.5) Saturday October 2, 2010 3:30 PM EST After getting slammed with over 10 supsensions to begin the season, North Carolina looks to get back to .500. North Carolina comes into the game at 1-2 and looks to get their first Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
home win vs another in state team. East Carolina brings with them a 2-1 record and looks to gain some in state recognition. East Carolina has shown an impressive passing game, ranking 13th in the nation. They also have shown that they can score with the best of them averaging over 42 points per game, 9th in the nation. Leading all this is Junior QB Dominique Davis. Davis has thrown for 890 yards with 9 TDs and 3 Ints. Davis has also added 3 rushing TDs as well. For North Carolina the standout has been Senior QB T.J. Yates. Yates has thrown for 825 yards with 5 TDs and only 1 Int. East Carolina has undoubtedly been able to score. They have been forced to score because their defense has given up over 41.7 points a game. With the one East Carolina loss coming on the road at Virginia Tech, this looks like another rough road trip. In the game vs. VT the Pirates scored 27 points but gave up 49. As a football pick, I would not be shocked to see this game turn out like the Pirates vs Virginia Tech game. There will be a ton of points in this game and NorthReebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
Carolina could easily put up a 50 spot in this one. Free College Football Pick: North Carolina (-12.5)Visit Freepick1.com each day for the winning free sports picks and expert football picks from our professional team. Be sure to check out our sportsbookspage for updated infoformation on bonusesfor the week. This article is also featured onSports Picks
home win vs another in state team. East Carolina brings with them a 2-1 record and looks to gain some in state recognition. East Carolina has shown an impressive passing game, ranking 13th in the nation. They also have shown that they can score with the best of them averaging over 42 points per game, 9th in the nation. Leading all this is Junior QB Dominique Davis. Davis has thrown for 890 yards with 9 TDs and 3 Ints. Davis has also added 3 rushing TDs as well. For North Carolina the standout has been Senior QB T.J. Yates. Yates has thrown for 825 yards with 5 TDs and only 1 Int. East Carolina has undoubtedly been able to score. They have been forced to score because their defense has given up over 41.7 points a game. With the one East Carolina loss coming on the road at Virginia Tech, this looks like another rough road trip. In the game vs. VT the Pirates scored 27 points but gave up 49. As a football pick, I would not be shocked to see this game turn out like the Pirates vs Virginia Tech game. There will be a ton of points in this game and NorthReebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
Carolina could easily put up a 50 spot in this one. Free College Football Pick: North Carolina (-12.5)Visit Freepick1.com each day for the winning free sports picks and expert football picks from our professional team. Be sure to check out our sportsbookspage for updated infoformation on bonusesfor the week. This article is also featured onSports Picks
2011年1月22日星期六
22 Jan 11 Alabama-Arkansas: Can the Tide Repeat as Winners This Year?
For Alabama to be successful, there must be an Alabama player in Mallett's face every playRonald Martinez/Getty ImagesLast year when Alabama faced Arkansas, Ryan Mallett was just getting his feet under him as the Hogs' signal caller, and Greg McElroy was likewise a first-year QB for the Tide.It was supposed to be an air show but in the end Mallett never took off and ended the game with just one touchdown to go along with one interception and only 165 yards passing.McElroy on the other hand looked more like the golden-armed future NFL quarterback, throwing for 291 Philadelphia Eagles jersey
yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions.That was then, and this year Alabama comes in with a lot of question marks due to their inexperienced secondary. Alabama fans know better than to expect the same outcome this year.The Hogs have worked to improve a shaky defense themselves, and this year Mallett is finally looking like the NFL prospect many projected him to be.This is the pivotal game in the SEC this week, as it will show not only these two teams, but also the rest of the college football world where each is in terms of stacking up against the rest of the SEC schedule ahead.Last year the game was played at Tuscaloosa; this year it's in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Home field does hold a distinct advantage in the SEC.While the Tide will enter this game searching for answers as to the capability of its young secondary to stop a future NFL quarterback, the Hogs enter the game wondering how their defense will stop the two-headed monster of Alabama's offense.Last year they sold out to stop the run, thinking a rookie quarterback would have less of a chance beating them than the running game, which was just as strong last year as this year.They were wrong. With McElroy now a known commodity, will they try that approach again and try to keep Mark Ingram, Trent Richardson, and Eddie Lacy from controlling the ball, the Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
clock, and the game?Keys for Arkansas are getting a turnover or two and stopping Alabama, forcing at least four punts. If they are not capable of doing that, it could be a long day with Mallett on the sideline.Keys for Alabama are finally waking up the dormant pass rush that has only resulted in two sacks so far this season, and having the defensive secondary get at least one pick and at least four pass breakups.So far this year Alabama's defense has bent but not broken. They have allowed only one touchdown, but the offenses they've played were less than what Arkansas will throw at them.Though Nick Saban does not like to win shootouts, that's what this one will become if Alabama can't pressure Mallett.
yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions.That was then, and this year Alabama comes in with a lot of question marks due to their inexperienced secondary. Alabama fans know better than to expect the same outcome this year.The Hogs have worked to improve a shaky defense themselves, and this year Mallett is finally looking like the NFL prospect many projected him to be.This is the pivotal game in the SEC this week, as it will show not only these two teams, but also the rest of the college football world where each is in terms of stacking up against the rest of the SEC schedule ahead.Last year the game was played at Tuscaloosa; this year it's in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Home field does hold a distinct advantage in the SEC.While the Tide will enter this game searching for answers as to the capability of its young secondary to stop a future NFL quarterback, the Hogs enter the game wondering how their defense will stop the two-headed monster of Alabama's offense.Last year they sold out to stop the run, thinking a rookie quarterback would have less of a chance beating them than the running game, which was just as strong last year as this year.They were wrong. With McElroy now a known commodity, will they try that approach again and try to keep Mark Ingram, Trent Richardson, and Eddie Lacy from controlling the ball, the Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
clock, and the game?Keys for Arkansas are getting a turnover or two and stopping Alabama, forcing at least four punts. If they are not capable of doing that, it could be a long day with Mallett on the sideline.Keys for Alabama are finally waking up the dormant pass rush that has only resulted in two sacks so far this season, and having the defensive secondary get at least one pick and at least four pass breakups.So far this year Alabama's defense has bent but not broken. They have allowed only one touchdown, but the offenses they've played were less than what Arkansas will throw at them.Though Nick Saban does not like to win shootouts, that's what this one will become if Alabama can't pressure Mallett.
2011年1月18日星期二
18 Jan 11 Mark Dantonio's Heart Attack Unlikely to Change Coaches' Lifestyles
Al Messerschmidt/Getty ImagesWhat happened to MSU football coach Mark Dantonio was sobering, but about as surprising as tomorrowsunrise.What should be causing chin rubbing and head scratching is why this doesnhappen more often.The heart attack that Dantonio suffered following Saturday Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
thrilling victory over Notre DameANY victory over Notre Dame is thrilling in my bookhas brought coaches to their public all over the country, mainly in the form of their weekly press conferences.Theyve all said the same thing, basically.Theyve offered their best wishes for Dantonio and his family. Theyve acknowledged that this is a tough business that theyre in, and full of pressure. They dondeny that they could be the next victim, though they hope not, of course.Then theyve gone back to their 18-hour days and sleeping on the couch in their office and watching film until theyre bleary-eyed.The head football coach at the college and pro levels is like the race car driver. No matter how many of their brethren are struck down, theyre right back at it the following weekend.Im grateful but amazed that this doesnhappen more often. Coaches in football and basketball, especially, drive themselves bonkers. Train your eyes on the basketball coach next time youre at a game. Watch nothing else. Youll be witness to a series of tantrums that would put a two-year-old to shame.How more of them donkeel over is a wonder.Not long after Northwestern football coach Randy Walker tragically passed away in 2006, I was on the phone with then-MSU coach John L. Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Smith.Smith gave me the usual somber analysis about his fallen colleague.That when I hit him cold.But coach, youre not going to change the way you do your job, are you, despite what happened to Coach Walker? Youre going to keep working 18-hour days.Smith sheepishly chuckled and admitted that I was right; he wasn about to change one iota.Not to be morbid, but half of the Division I-A coaches could drop dead tomorrow, and it wouldnchange how the other half go about their business.Mark Dantonio was lucky. Sometimes the human heart gives you a warning sign to change your ways, whether it diet, exercise, smoking, what have you.Sometimes it just quits on you, leaving a widow and a grieving family.The procedure that Dantonio underwentthe placement of a stent to open up a closed arteryis fairly common nowadays. As far as heart episodes go, this one was on the lower end of the danger spectrum.So how will Dantonio respond to this warning sign? Will he take his foot off the gas pedal a little bit? Will his Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
return to work be a return to work as before, or will normal take on a new meaning?But Dantonio isnthe proper gauge of the response to this incident. It happened to him, and you canhit closer to home than that.The bigger question is, how will his coaching comrades respond to what happened?My guess is that theyve already responded. Theyve taken their moment to speak to the local press, maybe say a prayer or two for the MSU coach and his family, and reflect.Then itback to the office for another 18 hours of film, practice, and recruiting.You can take a man out of coaching, but you cantake coaching out of a man.
thrilling victory over Notre DameANY victory over Notre Dame is thrilling in my bookhas brought coaches to their public all over the country, mainly in the form of their weekly press conferences.Theyve all said the same thing, basically.Theyve offered their best wishes for Dantonio and his family. Theyve acknowledged that this is a tough business that theyre in, and full of pressure. They dondeny that they could be the next victim, though they hope not, of course.Then theyve gone back to their 18-hour days and sleeping on the couch in their office and watching film until theyre bleary-eyed.The head football coach at the college and pro levels is like the race car driver. No matter how many of their brethren are struck down, theyre right back at it the following weekend.Im grateful but amazed that this doesnhappen more often. Coaches in football and basketball, especially, drive themselves bonkers. Train your eyes on the basketball coach next time youre at a game. Watch nothing else. Youll be witness to a series of tantrums that would put a two-year-old to shame.How more of them donkeel over is a wonder.Not long after Northwestern football coach Randy Walker tragically passed away in 2006, I was on the phone with then-MSU coach John L. Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Smith.Smith gave me the usual somber analysis about his fallen colleague.That when I hit him cold.But coach, youre not going to change the way you do your job, are you, despite what happened to Coach Walker? Youre going to keep working 18-hour days.Smith sheepishly chuckled and admitted that I was right; he wasn about to change one iota.Not to be morbid, but half of the Division I-A coaches could drop dead tomorrow, and it wouldnchange how the other half go about their business.Mark Dantonio was lucky. Sometimes the human heart gives you a warning sign to change your ways, whether it diet, exercise, smoking, what have you.Sometimes it just quits on you, leaving a widow and a grieving family.The procedure that Dantonio underwentthe placement of a stent to open up a closed arteryis fairly common nowadays. As far as heart episodes go, this one was on the lower end of the danger spectrum.So how will Dantonio respond to this warning sign? Will he take his foot off the gas pedal a little bit? Will his Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
return to work be a return to work as before, or will normal take on a new meaning?But Dantonio isnthe proper gauge of the response to this incident. It happened to him, and you canhit closer to home than that.The bigger question is, how will his coaching comrades respond to what happened?My guess is that theyve already responded. Theyve taken their moment to speak to the local press, maybe say a prayer or two for the MSU coach and his family, and reflect.Then itback to the office for another 18 hours of film, practice, and recruiting.You can take a man out of coaching, but you cantake coaching out of a man.
2011年1月15日星期六
15 Jan 11 St. Louis Rams "Best and worst-case scenarios for defense"
No Jenkins, no problem?It seemed all but a certainty that the St. Louis Rams would make a trade with the Carolina Panthers to acquire defensive tackle Kris Jenkins. Although injury history was a concern, Jenkins is considered to be among the best at his position and to say that the Rams are in desperate need of players who can stop the run would be a profound understatement.It was believed that the Panthers' asking price was a first-round pick while the Rams' initial offer was a third-rounder and that the two clubs would meet somewhere in the middle.Therefore, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
with trade scenarios flying and Internet rumors running rampant, Rams fans felt assured that some manner of trade was in the works, with the speculation reaching a fevered pitch come Draft Day.As it turned out, that speculation concluded not with a bang but rather a resounding thud.With the exception of their draft picks, the Rams face the upcoming season basically as is, with newcomers Chris Draft and end James Hall being the players most likely to make a positive impact on the defensive side of the ball. Let's take a look at the possible scenarios for the upcoming season:Linebackers:Best-case scenario: Will Witherspoon continues to be a tackling machine and blossoms into one of the better middle linebackers in the league. Pisa Tinoisamoa stays injury free and battles Witherspoon for the team lead in tackles. Brandon Chillar makes a leap forward comparable to last year and Chris Draft adds another 100-plus tackles to the lineup.Worst-case scenario: Tinoisamoa's body cannot keep up with his aggressive style of play and is injury riddled. The Rams' line continues to be poor, disallowing Draft from duplicating his numbers from Carolina. Without quality D-tackle play, Witherspoon gets erased every other down by much larger O-linemen who are able to get their hooks in. Chillar has already reached his full potential.Don't be surprised if: Draft replaces Chillar in the starting lineup from the outset of the season. Although serviceable, Chillar did not receive any offers from other teams on the restricted free-agent market, signaling that he may have reached his maximum potential.Secondary:Best-case scenario: Fakhir Brown continues to be solid and Tye Hill blossoms into a Pro Bowl corner. Ronald Bartell proves that he is a quality nickel back and rookie third-round cornerback Jonathan Wade proves that he Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
has the talent to go along with his blistering speed, foreshadowing a lightning quick future tandem with Hill at CB. O.J. Atogwe delivers on his promise and becomes a hard-hitting, turnover machine ala John Lynch from his Tampa Bay days. Corey Chavous continues to be solid in his role as the general of the secondary. Worst-case scenario: Brown gets old in a hurry (he'll turn 30 in September) and cannot match his solid play from last year. Hill's progression does not befit a first-round draft pick and he begins to display signs of being a bust. Atogwe's previous year of forcing turnovers turns out to be less like Lynch and more like Ryan McNeil. Bartell does not possess the talent to be a starter and Wade is afraid to step on the field because, as NFLDraftScout put it, "(he) seems to lack courage when asked to step inside the box to lend run support (shies away from contact)." Chavous' age and lack of speed catch up to him.Don't be surprised if: The youngsters in the Rams' secondary show major improvement despite being on their heels all season. If the Rams' line again fails to generate a pass rush without relying on extra blitzers, the secondary could be in for a long year.Defensive line:Best-case scenario: With opponents double teaming Leonard Little, James Hall becomes a 10-plus-sack man. Jimmy Kennedy plays above his head, in no small part due to it being his contract year, and Adam Carriker proves solid despite his rookie status. Youngsters Claude Wroten and Victor Adeyanju take another step forward and La'Roi Glover is solid because he is only relied on to play half the snaps he was in for last season.Worst-case scenario: Heretofore unknown quantity Hall gets injured so quickly that fans think his name is "oft-injured Hall." Carriker looks like a rookie and Kennedy plays like, well, Kennedy. If later-round picks Cliff Ryan and Keith Jackson see a lot of playing time, the defense is in serious trouble as it will signal that the starting tackles are ineffective. Glover either plays too many snaps or too few due to being released.Don't be surprised if: You Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
see a starting tackle duo of Adam Carriker and Claude Wroten by midseason. Head coach Scott Linehan feels that the defense will improve despite the failure to add any big names in free agency. "Now I think we have addressed those (defensive) needs and now we have to go out and prove it and do it on the field... I feel really good about the players we have added," said Linehan.The Rams now have no choice but to be satisfied.**You can e-mail Steve Reynolds at sreynoldsGot a bone to pick with a newspaper columnist, talk show personality or television analyst? E-mail us at mediawatch For more information, visit our Media Watch info page. (4)
with trade scenarios flying and Internet rumors running rampant, Rams fans felt assured that some manner of trade was in the works, with the speculation reaching a fevered pitch come Draft Day.As it turned out, that speculation concluded not with a bang but rather a resounding thud.With the exception of their draft picks, the Rams face the upcoming season basically as is, with newcomers Chris Draft and end James Hall being the players most likely to make a positive impact on the defensive side of the ball. Let's take a look at the possible scenarios for the upcoming season:Linebackers:Best-case scenario: Will Witherspoon continues to be a tackling machine and blossoms into one of the better middle linebackers in the league. Pisa Tinoisamoa stays injury free and battles Witherspoon for the team lead in tackles. Brandon Chillar makes a leap forward comparable to last year and Chris Draft adds another 100-plus tackles to the lineup.Worst-case scenario: Tinoisamoa's body cannot keep up with his aggressive style of play and is injury riddled. The Rams' line continues to be poor, disallowing Draft from duplicating his numbers from Carolina. Without quality D-tackle play, Witherspoon gets erased every other down by much larger O-linemen who are able to get their hooks in. Chillar has already reached his full potential.Don't be surprised if: Draft replaces Chillar in the starting lineup from the outset of the season. Although serviceable, Chillar did not receive any offers from other teams on the restricted free-agent market, signaling that he may have reached his maximum potential.Secondary:Best-case scenario: Fakhir Brown continues to be solid and Tye Hill blossoms into a Pro Bowl corner. Ronald Bartell proves that he is a quality nickel back and rookie third-round cornerback Jonathan Wade proves that he Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
has the talent to go along with his blistering speed, foreshadowing a lightning quick future tandem with Hill at CB. O.J. Atogwe delivers on his promise and becomes a hard-hitting, turnover machine ala John Lynch from his Tampa Bay days. Corey Chavous continues to be solid in his role as the general of the secondary. Worst-case scenario: Brown gets old in a hurry (he'll turn 30 in September) and cannot match his solid play from last year. Hill's progression does not befit a first-round draft pick and he begins to display signs of being a bust. Atogwe's previous year of forcing turnovers turns out to be less like Lynch and more like Ryan McNeil. Bartell does not possess the talent to be a starter and Wade is afraid to step on the field because, as NFLDraftScout put it, "(he) seems to lack courage when asked to step inside the box to lend run support (shies away from contact)." Chavous' age and lack of speed catch up to him.Don't be surprised if: The youngsters in the Rams' secondary show major improvement despite being on their heels all season. If the Rams' line again fails to generate a pass rush without relying on extra blitzers, the secondary could be in for a long year.Defensive line:Best-case scenario: With opponents double teaming Leonard Little, James Hall becomes a 10-plus-sack man. Jimmy Kennedy plays above his head, in no small part due to it being his contract year, and Adam Carriker proves solid despite his rookie status. Youngsters Claude Wroten and Victor Adeyanju take another step forward and La'Roi Glover is solid because he is only relied on to play half the snaps he was in for last season.Worst-case scenario: Heretofore unknown quantity Hall gets injured so quickly that fans think his name is "oft-injured Hall." Carriker looks like a rookie and Kennedy plays like, well, Kennedy. If later-round picks Cliff Ryan and Keith Jackson see a lot of playing time, the defense is in serious trouble as it will signal that the starting tackles are ineffective. Glover either plays too many snaps or too few due to being released.Don't be surprised if: You Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
see a starting tackle duo of Adam Carriker and Claude Wroten by midseason. Head coach Scott Linehan feels that the defense will improve despite the failure to add any big names in free agency. "Now I think we have addressed those (defensive) needs and now we have to go out and prove it and do it on the field... I feel really good about the players we have added," said Linehan.The Rams now have no choice but to be satisfied.**You can e-mail Steve Reynolds at sreynoldsGot a bone to pick with a newspaper columnist, talk show personality or television analyst? E-mail us at mediawatch For more information, visit our Media Watch info page. (4)
2011年1月13日星期四
14 Jan 11 Seattle Seahawks and Bobby Engram "Best option is for Seahawks to reward Engram – next year"
Bobby Engram has a point. And so do the Seattle Seahawks. And that’s what makes this a tricky situation. That said, there are certainly ways to resolve the dispute between the team and its best wide receiver, and Engram will be on the field when the Seahawks open the season in Buffalo on Sept. 7.Engram argues that he deserves to be paid better than he currently is in light of the fact that he had a career year in 2007. As injuries depleted the Seahawks’ receiving corps, Engram bounced back from a thyroid condition that had cost him most of the 2006 Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
season and he proceeded to set the team record with 94 receptions in 2007. Although he is 35, Engram remains the team’s top receiver. Deion Branch, who missed much of last season with injuries, will be out for at least half of the 2008 campaign. D.J. Hackett, who also was mostly a non-factor in 2007, is no longer with the team. That means Engram and Nate Burleson will be counted on to lead an otherwise very inexperienced receiving corps.Engram knows how important he is to the offense – he long has been quarterback Matt Hasselbeck’s security blanket. He also knows that a once strong position has been weakened through attrition and that his absence would certainly hurt the offense even more. At $1.7 million, Engram is scheduled to make about half of what Branch ($3.5 million) and Burleson ($3.25 million) will net in 2008. This also is the final year of the two-year deal he signed in 2007, and he feels like he can play for another three seasons. Add it all up, and Engram doesn’t plan to report to camp until the Seahawks have given him a raise and contract extension. He has asked for a two-year renewal through 2010. As he told the Seattle P-I last week, “I have clearly outplayed that contract [signed in 2006]. Do they have to extend my contract? No. Should they? Yes.”The Seahawks have valid arguments against it. Obviously Engram was one of their top three offensive players last season (behind Hasselbeck and left tackle Walter Jones), but the fact remains that he just turned 35 in January and still has not played a full season as a starter since joining the Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
Seahawks in 2001. He missed three games with broken ribs in 2005 and nine games with the thyroid condition in 2006. President Tim Ruskell is understandably hesitant to invest much money in an aging receiver, even if that player had his best season at age 34. Ruskell reportedly is willing to consider only one year at a time, and he doesn’t want to capitulate to a player who is holding out because it would set a bad precedent. In addition, the Seahawks don’t have much room under the salary cap and couldn’t offer Engram much extra money this year even if they wanted to.As coach Mike Holmgren told reporters last week, “This isn’t the first time something like this has happened. There are business decisions to be made.”Here’s a business decision that could work for both parties: Give Engram the extension he wants using an option bonus that the team could activate next March if he performs well enough in 2008 for the Seahawks to want him back. Make it a $2 million option bonus that would activate two more years (2009 and 2010), with salaries of $2 million each. Basically, the option bonus would serve as a reward if Engram had another outstanding season, and he effectively would have made $3.7 million in 2008 and have an extension at a reasonable price for a guy who will be 36 in January 2009. Of course, if Engram is thinking he should receive $4 million or more per year or in bonus money, he should think again. No team is going to give him that. But it doesn’t seem like he’s trying to break the bank. It just seems like he wants to be paid on par with the teammates he has outperformed. That should be easy enough to fix if he’s willing to wait for the extra money.Of course, until this is settled, the Seahawks won’t see Engram. He’ll sit out the June minicamps and probably even training camp. But, heck, that’s good for everyone. Engram saves his 35-year-old body from a needless preseason pounding while the Seahawks get to see what the younger receivers – Ben Obomanu, Courtney Taylor, Logan Payne and Jordan Kent – can Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
do.Engram knows the offense inside-out, and if Hasselbeck isn’t concerned, no one should be.“I feel like I can throw to Bobby with my eyes closed,” the quarterback told reporters last week. “When Bobby comes back, he’ll be the same Bobby we know and love. We know he works hard when he’s not here. He’ll be a playmaker for us like he was last year.”As long as Engram and the Seahawks agree they both have valid points and must settle on the best option for player and team.
season and he proceeded to set the team record with 94 receptions in 2007. Although he is 35, Engram remains the team’s top receiver. Deion Branch, who missed much of last season with injuries, will be out for at least half of the 2008 campaign. D.J. Hackett, who also was mostly a non-factor in 2007, is no longer with the team. That means Engram and Nate Burleson will be counted on to lead an otherwise very inexperienced receiving corps.Engram knows how important he is to the offense – he long has been quarterback Matt Hasselbeck’s security blanket. He also knows that a once strong position has been weakened through attrition and that his absence would certainly hurt the offense even more. At $1.7 million, Engram is scheduled to make about half of what Branch ($3.5 million) and Burleson ($3.25 million) will net in 2008. This also is the final year of the two-year deal he signed in 2007, and he feels like he can play for another three seasons. Add it all up, and Engram doesn’t plan to report to camp until the Seahawks have given him a raise and contract extension. He has asked for a two-year renewal through 2010. As he told the Seattle P-I last week, “I have clearly outplayed that contract [signed in 2006]. Do they have to extend my contract? No. Should they? Yes.”The Seahawks have valid arguments against it. Obviously Engram was one of their top three offensive players last season (behind Hasselbeck and left tackle Walter Jones), but the fact remains that he just turned 35 in January and still has not played a full season as a starter since joining the Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
Seahawks in 2001. He missed three games with broken ribs in 2005 and nine games with the thyroid condition in 2006. President Tim Ruskell is understandably hesitant to invest much money in an aging receiver, even if that player had his best season at age 34. Ruskell reportedly is willing to consider only one year at a time, and he doesn’t want to capitulate to a player who is holding out because it would set a bad precedent. In addition, the Seahawks don’t have much room under the salary cap and couldn’t offer Engram much extra money this year even if they wanted to.As coach Mike Holmgren told reporters last week, “This isn’t the first time something like this has happened. There are business decisions to be made.”Here’s a business decision that could work for both parties: Give Engram the extension he wants using an option bonus that the team could activate next March if he performs well enough in 2008 for the Seahawks to want him back. Make it a $2 million option bonus that would activate two more years (2009 and 2010), with salaries of $2 million each. Basically, the option bonus would serve as a reward if Engram had another outstanding season, and he effectively would have made $3.7 million in 2008 and have an extension at a reasonable price for a guy who will be 36 in January 2009. Of course, if Engram is thinking he should receive $4 million or more per year or in bonus money, he should think again. No team is going to give him that. But it doesn’t seem like he’s trying to break the bank. It just seems like he wants to be paid on par with the teammates he has outperformed. That should be easy enough to fix if he’s willing to wait for the extra money.Of course, until this is settled, the Seahawks won’t see Engram. He’ll sit out the June minicamps and probably even training camp. But, heck, that’s good for everyone. Engram saves his 35-year-old body from a needless preseason pounding while the Seahawks get to see what the younger receivers – Ben Obomanu, Courtney Taylor, Logan Payne and Jordan Kent – can Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
do.Engram knows the offense inside-out, and if Hasselbeck isn’t concerned, no one should be.“I feel like I can throw to Bobby with my eyes closed,” the quarterback told reporters last week. “When Bobby comes back, he’ll be the same Bobby we know and love. We know he works hard when he’s not here. He’ll be a playmaker for us like he was last year.”As long as Engram and the Seahawks agree they both have valid points and must settle on the best option for player and team.
2011年1月12日星期三
13 Jan 11 1/13/09 Bucket of Links!
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesRoy is on the MVP list and Martell is on the MIP list over at ESPN .The Blazers are having another tweet up tonight , head over to the Ford display at 6:15. Casey and Dan put on a nice event!Is everyone aware that Martell Webster and perhaps some of his PR people, are on twitter? Follow him here .Ben from Blazer's Edge has Execution Breakdowns ; defensive, offensive, and life breakdowns.Sean from Oregon Live has video and quotes from yesterday's practice.Wendell Maxey of Beyond Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
the Beat has a great little piece on Andre Miller .Brian T. Smith of the Columbian says Rudy is chomping at the bit to return to game action.Rudy himself also chimes in on the situation .Dwight Jaynes Talking about the Blazers making deals , or not making deals.Ezra Caraeff of the newly assembled Portland Roundball Society: I think I'll enjoy this feature, island of misfit Blazers toys featuring Ruben Boumtje-Boumtje.Jason Quick of Oregon Live says Andre Miller is finding his comfort zone .Kellex from Blaze of Love has a comparison of Kobe and LeBron from our weekend of star power.It looks like Blake Griffin is out for the season , not a good feeling for Clippers' fans. We know your pain.
the Beat has a great little piece on Andre Miller .Brian T. Smith of the Columbian says Rudy is chomping at the bit to return to game action.Rudy himself also chimes in on the situation .Dwight Jaynes Talking about the Blazers making deals , or not making deals.Ezra Caraeff of the newly assembled Portland Roundball Society: I think I'll enjoy this feature, island of misfit Blazers toys featuring Ruben Boumtje-Boumtje.Jason Quick of Oregon Live says Andre Miller is finding his comfort zone .Kellex from Blaze of Love has a comparison of Kobe and LeBron from our weekend of star power.It looks like Blake Griffin is out for the season , not a good feeling for Clippers' fans. We know your pain.
12 Jan 11 Give 'Em Wil Or Gallo!
Al Bello/Getty ImagesIn the wake of David Lee's latest All-Star snub, a couple of things might have become apparent to Knicks fans. First, Lee's stats really are somewhat inflated and he's not an All-Star calibre player. Second, the Knicks truly are thatbad if their star can average almost 20 and 11, receive the endorsement of future hall of famer Kobe Bryant among others, and still be passed over for a reserve spot.The reality is probably a combination of the two. It has been a joy to watch Lee develop over the past few years. He's transformed from a hustling reserve Minnesota Vikings
to a solid all-around player who could start for some of the NBA's top teams. He is also, however, an undersized center who regularly gets bullied by stronger, more athletic big men (being outplayed by Drew Gooden set the tone for the Knicks' disastrous Sunday loss to Dallas).At the same time, I have a feeling that Lee's defense suffers, in large part, because the Knicks ask too much of him on offense. He will never be a terrific interior defender, he isn't built for that, but I can't help but feel that if he had some consistent help on the other end of the floor, he might improve as a defender in the same way he learned how to become an excellent midrange shooter.This season, Lee has been the centerpiece of the offense with his shooting and playmaking abilities. There are only a handful of players who match great offensive production with impressive defense and 2 of them are serenaded with MVP chants everywhere they play.The solution: get some more offensive weapons to take some of the weight off of Lee's shoulders. Wilson Chandler, Danilo Gallinari, and Al HarringtonNew England Patriots jersey
just haven't been getting it done consistently. Although I like Chandler and Gallo, I'm not sold on the Knicks' youth movement (as I'm sure this summer's top free agents aren't). To make a real play for two free agents this summer, the Knicks will have to move Jefferies' awful contract. To make Jefferies' contract palatable to another the team, the Knicks will have to include either Gallo or Chandler in a package. I prefer Chandler because he possesses top-tier athleticism and would fill more needs as a role player on a better Knicks team, but I'm sure most other teams prefer him over Gallo too. Both players essentially occupy the same position, so bidding farewell to either one would be a small price to pay for the financial maneuverability moving Jefferies would allow. With Jefferies gone, the Knicks would have more of New Orleans Saints jersey
a shot at paying for 2 max contracts this summer. Without an All-Star berth, David Lee's free agent stock is definitely not as high as it would have been had he made the team. This is great news for the Knicks. Even with 2 max contracts, they might be able to get Lee to sign on for the fun as well at a price that would not break the bank.
to a solid all-around player who could start for some of the NBA's top teams. He is also, however, an undersized center who regularly gets bullied by stronger, more athletic big men (being outplayed by Drew Gooden set the tone for the Knicks' disastrous Sunday loss to Dallas).At the same time, I have a feeling that Lee's defense suffers, in large part, because the Knicks ask too much of him on offense. He will never be a terrific interior defender, he isn't built for that, but I can't help but feel that if he had some consistent help on the other end of the floor, he might improve as a defender in the same way he learned how to become an excellent midrange shooter.This season, Lee has been the centerpiece of the offense with his shooting and playmaking abilities. There are only a handful of players who match great offensive production with impressive defense and 2 of them are serenaded with MVP chants everywhere they play.The solution: get some more offensive weapons to take some of the weight off of Lee's shoulders. Wilson Chandler, Danilo Gallinari, and Al HarringtonNew England Patriots jersey
just haven't been getting it done consistently. Although I like Chandler and Gallo, I'm not sold on the Knicks' youth movement (as I'm sure this summer's top free agents aren't). To make a real play for two free agents this summer, the Knicks will have to move Jefferies' awful contract. To make Jefferies' contract palatable to another the team, the Knicks will have to include either Gallo or Chandler in a package. I prefer Chandler because he possesses top-tier athleticism and would fill more needs as a role player on a better Knicks team, but I'm sure most other teams prefer him over Gallo too. Both players essentially occupy the same position, so bidding farewell to either one would be a small price to pay for the financial maneuverability moving Jefferies would allow. With Jefferies gone, the Knicks would have more of New Orleans Saints jersey
a shot at paying for 2 max contracts this summer. Without an All-Star berth, David Lee's free agent stock is definitely not as high as it would have been had he made the team. This is great news for the Knicks. Even with 2 max contracts, they might be able to get Lee to sign on for the fun as well at a price that would not break the bank.
12 Jan 11 Tornoto Raptors Antoine Wright: Burning Down The Doghouse!
Nick Laham/Getty ImagesBryan Colangelo spent this past summer accumulating some players he believed would help the Raptors shed their image of being a non-athletic group of bad defenders.Players like Reggie Evans, Antoine Wright, and Jarrett Jack were acquired to provide some toughness and defense while players like Sonny Weems, Amir Johnson, and Marco Belinelli were acquired to gain speed and athleticism.At the start of the season, some might have questioned if any of these moves were going to actually pan out. But things have changed.One of Colangelo key acquisitions, Antoine Wright, landed in Toronto as the defensive specialist from Dallas who unexpectedly started in 53 regular season and five playoff games for a very good Mavericks team. But,Dallas used Wright in limited minutes last season, even when he started. The Raptors best case scenario is likely to do the same. Until Wright can demonstrate that he has improved both his shooting stroke and his turnovers, it will be a challenge for coaches to keep him on the floor for extended periods.The Case for Antoine WrightAnd despite Jay Triano glowing reviews about Wright ability to learn his defensive schemes in training camp, Wright remained an unproven acquisition.Wright immediately became a big part of Jay Triano rotation, averaging over 20 minutes per game to start the season. But as the season progressed, Wright minutes declined.Jay Triano relied on Wright far more than his 'success' with Dallas warranted and Wright rewarded Triano by shooting a career low 33.6% from the field. Wright making an offensive play could almost be equated with a turnover.However, the Raptors could probably live with Wright less than helpful offensive game if he was providing the defense everyone had anticipated. Sadly, he has not.Antoine Wright is deep in Jay Triano doghouse!After mid-December, Sonny Weems began to get Wright minutes in the rotation and Sonny provided athleticism and excitement that is not part of Wright game.Fortunately for Wright, Jay Triano must have seen what Wright could bring to the team. Or maybe it was just that Weems couldn keep up that exceptionally hot shooting he brought to his first few games in the rotation. But, by the end of December, Wright was getting his chance again.Antoine Wright has played in all 13 Raptors' games in January coming into last night's game against the Knicks, averaging 16 minutes and making solid contributions on the floor.Wright discovered that shooting less equals more floor time for him, as he has averaged less than four shots per game. And shooting less has helped boost his hit rate to a respectable 44.9 percent from the field. Wright is no longer a liability on offense.But perhaps the exclamation point on Wright January play was the 11 minute, 0-0 shooting, one rebound effort against the LA Lakers. Jay Triano re-inserted Wright into the line-up for 3.9 seconds with 15.3 seconds to go and again with 1.2 seconds left to guard Kobe Bryant. And Kobe misses two three-point attempts to preserve a Raptors victory.Then in the Raptors' last two games against the Heat and Knicks, Wright took that December doghouse he was in and burned it to the ground.In the past two games, Wright has scored 22 points, collected 10 boards, and made 8-of-12 shots, including 4-5 from three-point range.After a rough December, Antoine Wright has earned his time back in the Raptors' rotation.
2011年1月10日星期一
10 Jan 11 Rebuilding Through The Draft Doesnt Work
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesThis article shows why building through draft never works, so forget about John Hall or whoever else in this year's draft and forget about tanking the season.Quick history lesson about building through draft and young playersT-Wolves case2009 draft: Jonny Flynn, Wayne Ellington2008 draft: Kevin Love2007 draft: Corey BrewerYoung players from KG trade: Al Jefferson, Ryan GomesReason for rebuilding: Departure of franchise player Kevin GarnettVerdict: No franchise-altering force out of all of them. They have been rebuilding since trading KG. Tried to build around Randy Foye, then gave up (traded him for the pick that got them Ricky Rubio). Tried to build around Al Jefferson then gave up (they're shopping him). Now seem to be building around Flynn. 2 out of the 4 young players acquired from theWashington Redskins jersey
KG trade flamed out (Gerald Green, Sebastian Telfair). This rebuilding project will last forever.Kings' case2009 draft: Tyreke Evans, Omri Cassipi, Jon Brockman2008 draft: Jason Thompson, Donte Greene (Artest trade)2007 draft: Spencer Hawes2005 draft: Francisco GarciaYoung players from Kevin Martin trade: Carl Landry, Joey Dorsey, Dominic McGuireReason for rebuilding: Departure of franchise player Chris Webber, main sidekicks Peja Stojakovic, and head coach Rick AdelmanVerdict: They're counting on Evans to turn around this franchise's fortune, but they have been gradually rebuilding since getting rid of C-Webb. They tried to build around Ron Artest then gave up. They tried to build around Kevin Martin then gave up as well. They seem to be building around Evans now. Evans already drove the only other decent player out of town (ie. Kevin Martin). This seems to be another never-ending rebuilding project.Nets' case2009 draft: Terrence Williams2008 draft: Brook Lopez, Chris Douglas-Roberts2006 draft: Josh BooneYoung players received from trading away Jason Kidd, Vince Carter, and Richard Jefferson: Devin Harris, Courtney Lee, Yi JianlianReason for rebuilding: Departure of franchise player Jason KiddVerdict: This is the worst team in the history of the game. Getting the #1 pick is not gonna change that. Rebuilding has been ongoing since Jason Kidd got traded away. Harris was supposed to be the new cornerstone, but apparently they have lost faith in him and are shopping him. Douglas-Roberts and Boone also fell out of a favor and are on the trading block. Now they seem to want to build around Lopez and whoever they take in this year's draft. There's just no franchise-altering force on this team. Unless they make a splash in free agency or this will be another never-ending rebuilding project.Grizzlies case2009 draft: Hasheem Thabeet, DeMarre Carroll, Sam Young2008 draft: OJ Mayo, Darrell Arthur2007 draft: Mike Conley2006 draft: Rudy GayYoung players acquired from Pau Gasol trade: Marc GasolReason for rebuilding: Departure of franchise player Pau GasolVerdict: The Grizzlies are .500 this year not through rebuilding but thanks to Zach Randolph, whom they acquired because other teams had been throwing him around due to salary cap reason, but they will won't make the playoff. They probably won't have the money to add more pieces or even resign Gay this offseason. .500 is probably their ceiling. They tried to build around Gay after trading P. Gasol, but apparently decided this year that he's not the answer by allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.Blazers case2009 draft: Dante Cunningham, Jeff Pendergraph, Patrick Mills2008 draft: Jerryd Bayless, Nicolas Batum, Rudy Fernandez2007 draft: Greg Oden2006 draft: Brandon Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge2005 draft: Martell Webster2003 draft: Travis Outlaw (recently traded)Reason for rebuilding: The breakup of the Jail Blazers.Verdict: One of the luckier rebuilding effort. They fluked out with Brandon Roy, who is the only reason they are better than the Kings and the Timberwolves right now. They struck out with most of their other draft picks. Webster, Oden, Bayless are all obvious busts. Aldridge isn't as good as most people think. He's not a star. They would have been better off getting equal value from Rasheed Wallace, Zach Randolph, etc instead of just doing salary dumps.Bulls case2009 draft: Taj Gibson, James Johnson2008 draft: Derrick Rose2007 draft: Joakim Noah2004 draft: Luol Deng2003 draft: Kirk HinrichReason for rebuilding: Retirement of Michael Jordan and departure of head coach Phil Jackson and sidekick Scottie PippenVerdict: Never ending cycle of mediocrity and lottery. The Bulls case is probably the most traumatic case of rebuilding in the history of rebuilding. GM Jerry Krause decided to rebuild and trade away almost everyone from the championship team (Toni Kukoc was the last to go in early 2000). They won the draft lottery in '99 and took Elton Brand with the top pick. They also drafted Ron Artest for good measure. Even though the team was horrible, the future seems to be bright with tons of cap room. Their classless treatment of former players came back to haunt them, however, as Eddie Jones, Tim Duncan, Grant Hill, Tracy McGrady, and Tim Thomas all rejected their overture during the offseason in 2000. Eventually, they had to overpay for Ron Mercer and also brought in Brad Miller. They also added more young talents (Marcus Fizer, Jamal Crawford) through the draft. Yet, they again finished with the worst record in team history. Brand, deemed a failed franchise player, was traded on draft day 2001 for Tyson Chandler. They also drafted Eddy Curry on the same day. The thinking was that one day these two raw prep-to-pro players will form a "twin tower" just like the Spurs did with Tim Duncan and David Robinson. That never happened.The juggling continued, however, Mercer, Artest, and Miller were traded at midseason for Pacers go-to guy Jalen Rose. The team finished last in the league.The next season, the team drafted can't miss phenom Jay Williams as the second overall pick in 2002 and also added Donyell Marshall, who was an important sidekick to Malone and Stockton before he landed in Chicago. Expectation was high. The team did improve, but was not even close to contending for a playoff spot. Williams' play was also considered disappointing.Williams got into a motorcycle accident during the offseason and never played basketball since. The team quickly moved on by drafting Kirk Hinrich in 2003 as his replacement. Scottie Pippen returned to the team. It seemed like the young talents have finally matured and it was now time to contend. The team actually regressed. Jalen Rose and Donyell Marshall were traded. Fizer and Jamal Crawford also left the team. The team was officially rebuilding yet AGAIN.Young talents like Ben Gordon, Luol Deng, Chris Duhon were selected in the draft. Andres Nocioni was also brought in. The Bulls finally made the playoffs as the #3 seed in a weak East, but were upset in the first round.The following season, Curry was let go due to heart problem. The team regressed and barely made the playoffs.In 2006, the Bulls got Tyrus Thomas and Thabo Sefolosha in the draft. They also signed all-star center Ben Wallace, proving that they Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
intended to contend. The 06-07 season was their best season since MJ retired as they advanced to the second round.The future was looking bright in 2007 yet trade rumors involving Kobe Bryant and contract demands from Ben Gordon and Luol Deng began to take its toil on the team. The team got off to a slow start and missed the postseason.In 2008, they won the lottery and drafted Derrick Rose. It seems like it is 1999 all over again.Prominent failed experiments in the last decade: Andrew Bogut with Milwaukee, Kevin Martin with Sacramento, Al Jefferson with Minnesota, Randy Foye with Minnesota, Andre Iguodala with Philly, Michael Redd with Milwaukee, Danny Granger with Indiana (jury still out on this one), Devin Harris with New Jersey, Jason Richardson with Golden State, Elton Brand with Chicago/LA Clippers, Emeka Okafor with Charlotte, Andrei Kirilenko with Utah, Rudy Gay with Memphis, Tim Thomas in Milwaukee, Antawn Jamison with Golden State
KG trade flamed out (Gerald Green, Sebastian Telfair). This rebuilding project will last forever.Kings' case2009 draft: Tyreke Evans, Omri Cassipi, Jon Brockman2008 draft: Jason Thompson, Donte Greene (Artest trade)2007 draft: Spencer Hawes2005 draft: Francisco GarciaYoung players from Kevin Martin trade: Carl Landry, Joey Dorsey, Dominic McGuireReason for rebuilding: Departure of franchise player Chris Webber, main sidekicks Peja Stojakovic, and head coach Rick AdelmanVerdict: They're counting on Evans to turn around this franchise's fortune, but they have been gradually rebuilding since getting rid of C-Webb. They tried to build around Ron Artest then gave up. They tried to build around Kevin Martin then gave up as well. They seem to be building around Evans now. Evans already drove the only other decent player out of town (ie. Kevin Martin). This seems to be another never-ending rebuilding project.Nets' case2009 draft: Terrence Williams2008 draft: Brook Lopez, Chris Douglas-Roberts2006 draft: Josh BooneYoung players received from trading away Jason Kidd, Vince Carter, and Richard Jefferson: Devin Harris, Courtney Lee, Yi JianlianReason for rebuilding: Departure of franchise player Jason KiddVerdict: This is the worst team in the history of the game. Getting the #1 pick is not gonna change that. Rebuilding has been ongoing since Jason Kidd got traded away. Harris was supposed to be the new cornerstone, but apparently they have lost faith in him and are shopping him. Douglas-Roberts and Boone also fell out of a favor and are on the trading block. Now they seem to want to build around Lopez and whoever they take in this year's draft. There's just no franchise-altering force on this team. Unless they make a splash in free agency or this will be another never-ending rebuilding project.Grizzlies case2009 draft: Hasheem Thabeet, DeMarre Carroll, Sam Young2008 draft: OJ Mayo, Darrell Arthur2007 draft: Mike Conley2006 draft: Rudy GayYoung players acquired from Pau Gasol trade: Marc GasolReason for rebuilding: Departure of franchise player Pau GasolVerdict: The Grizzlies are .500 this year not through rebuilding but thanks to Zach Randolph, whom they acquired because other teams had been throwing him around due to salary cap reason, but they will won't make the playoff. They probably won't have the money to add more pieces or even resign Gay this offseason. .500 is probably their ceiling. They tried to build around Gay after trading P. Gasol, but apparently decided this year that he's not the answer by allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.Blazers case2009 draft: Dante Cunningham, Jeff Pendergraph, Patrick Mills2008 draft: Jerryd Bayless, Nicolas Batum, Rudy Fernandez2007 draft: Greg Oden2006 draft: Brandon Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge2005 draft: Martell Webster2003 draft: Travis Outlaw (recently traded)Reason for rebuilding: The breakup of the Jail Blazers.Verdict: One of the luckier rebuilding effort. They fluked out with Brandon Roy, who is the only reason they are better than the Kings and the Timberwolves right now. They struck out with most of their other draft picks. Webster, Oden, Bayless are all obvious busts. Aldridge isn't as good as most people think. He's not a star. They would have been better off getting equal value from Rasheed Wallace, Zach Randolph, etc instead of just doing salary dumps.Bulls case2009 draft: Taj Gibson, James Johnson2008 draft: Derrick Rose2007 draft: Joakim Noah2004 draft: Luol Deng2003 draft: Kirk HinrichReason for rebuilding: Retirement of Michael Jordan and departure of head coach Phil Jackson and sidekick Scottie PippenVerdict: Never ending cycle of mediocrity and lottery. The Bulls case is probably the most traumatic case of rebuilding in the history of rebuilding. GM Jerry Krause decided to rebuild and trade away almost everyone from the championship team (Toni Kukoc was the last to go in early 2000). They won the draft lottery in '99 and took Elton Brand with the top pick. They also drafted Ron Artest for good measure. Even though the team was horrible, the future seems to be bright with tons of cap room. Their classless treatment of former players came back to haunt them, however, as Eddie Jones, Tim Duncan, Grant Hill, Tracy McGrady, and Tim Thomas all rejected their overture during the offseason in 2000. Eventually, they had to overpay for Ron Mercer and also brought in Brad Miller. They also added more young talents (Marcus Fizer, Jamal Crawford) through the draft. Yet, they again finished with the worst record in team history. Brand, deemed a failed franchise player, was traded on draft day 2001 for Tyson Chandler. They also drafted Eddy Curry on the same day. The thinking was that one day these two raw prep-to-pro players will form a "twin tower" just like the Spurs did with Tim Duncan and David Robinson. That never happened.The juggling continued, however, Mercer, Artest, and Miller were traded at midseason for Pacers go-to guy Jalen Rose. The team finished last in the league.The next season, the team drafted can't miss phenom Jay Williams as the second overall pick in 2002 and also added Donyell Marshall, who was an important sidekick to Malone and Stockton before he landed in Chicago. Expectation was high. The team did improve, but was not even close to contending for a playoff spot. Williams' play was also considered disappointing.Williams got into a motorcycle accident during the offseason and never played basketball since. The team quickly moved on by drafting Kirk Hinrich in 2003 as his replacement. Scottie Pippen returned to the team. It seemed like the young talents have finally matured and it was now time to contend. The team actually regressed. Jalen Rose and Donyell Marshall were traded. Fizer and Jamal Crawford also left the team. The team was officially rebuilding yet AGAIN.Young talents like Ben Gordon, Luol Deng, Chris Duhon were selected in the draft. Andres Nocioni was also brought in. The Bulls finally made the playoffs as the #3 seed in a weak East, but were upset in the first round.The following season, Curry was let go due to heart problem. The team regressed and barely made the playoffs.In 2006, the Bulls got Tyrus Thomas and Thabo Sefolosha in the draft. They also signed all-star center Ben Wallace, proving that they Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
intended to contend. The 06-07 season was their best season since MJ retired as they advanced to the second round.The future was looking bright in 2007 yet trade rumors involving Kobe Bryant and contract demands from Ben Gordon and Luol Deng began to take its toil on the team. The team got off to a slow start and missed the postseason.In 2008, they won the lottery and drafted Derrick Rose. It seems like it is 1999 all over again.Prominent failed experiments in the last decade: Andrew Bogut with Milwaukee, Kevin Martin with Sacramento, Al Jefferson with Minnesota, Randy Foye with Minnesota, Andre Iguodala with Philly, Michael Redd with Milwaukee, Danny Granger with Indiana (jury still out on this one), Devin Harris with New Jersey, Jason Richardson with Golden State, Elton Brand with Chicago/LA Clippers, Emeka Okafor with Charlotte, Andrei Kirilenko with Utah, Rudy Gay with Memphis, Tim Thomas in Milwaukee, Antawn Jamison with Golden State
2011年1月9日星期日
9 Jan 11 The Verdict: Phil Jackson Answers The Critics Result Lakers Win.
Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesThe Zen Master has finally awaken out his slumber, just in time for the final stretch leading into the playoffs. Like always with Phil he doesn't make the adjustments when you would like but his fine tuning of the Laker is always on time.This evenings game against the Nuggets unlike the many games before it, when Gasol starting playing soft Phil benched him. When its was apparent that Fisher was going to be beat to the punch by Billups all night, benched him. Right on Phil!Josh Powelland Mbenga steppedin for Bynum adding, Buffalo Bills jersey
6 points a piece. Their biggest influence was down low where they contested every shot and went after every rebound an energy that was deseperately needed.The biggest surprise of the night was Lamar Odom exploding for 20 points12 rebounds 1 block shot and 4 steals. Hopefully this type of performance is something the laker can look forward to in the future.The my vital keys to the Lakers sucess during the course of this game would have to be the stifling defensive effort by Ron Artest who had 6 steals and forced numerous turnovers. He also held Anthony to 21 points of 7-19 shooting, while adding 17 points 12 of the points coming from behind the three point strike.The most important key of all was Kobe Bryant the Mamba transforming to Kobe Bryant the Facilitator. Because of various well placed traps, and zones Carolina Panthers jersey
Kobe suffered from the field going for 14 points off 17 shots. Kobe being Kobe he still found a away to bury the competition finding fellow Lakers all night for easy buckets, finishing with 12 assist.He wasn't a slouch on the defensive end either, gathering 3 steals and 2 block shots he more than made up for a sluggish performance on the shooting end.I think its safe to just when you think ole Phil is losing his touch he shocks us once again making all the right moves just in the nick of time.
6 points a piece. Their biggest influence was down low where they contested every shot and went after every rebound an energy that was deseperately needed.The biggest surprise of the night was Lamar Odom exploding for 20 points12 rebounds 1 block shot and 4 steals. Hopefully this type of performance is something the laker can look forward to in the future.The my vital keys to the Lakers sucess during the course of this game would have to be the stifling defensive effort by Ron Artest who had 6 steals and forced numerous turnovers. He also held Anthony to 21 points of 7-19 shooting, while adding 17 points 12 of the points coming from behind the three point strike.The most important key of all was Kobe Bryant the Mamba transforming to Kobe Bryant the Facilitator. Because of various well placed traps, and zones Carolina Panthers jersey
Kobe suffered from the field going for 14 points off 17 shots. Kobe being Kobe he still found a away to bury the competition finding fellow Lakers all night for easy buckets, finishing with 12 assist.He wasn't a slouch on the defensive end either, gathering 3 steals and 2 block shots he more than made up for a sluggish performance on the shooting end.I think its safe to just when you think ole Phil is losing his touch he shocks us once again making all the right moves just in the nick of time.
2011年1月8日星期六
8 Jan 11 Chicago Bulls: Recent Injuries Creating Opportunities for New/Young Players
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesWhen the Chicago Bulls acquired Acie Law from the Bobcats (along with Flip Murray) for disgruntled power forward Tyrus Thomas, they probably weren't planning on the former Aggie getting much playing time.Then again, at that time, the team probably didn't think it'd be sitting in the ninth spot in the Eastern Conference, a game and a half behind the final playoff berth with only 16 games remaining, and stars Derrick Rose, Luol Deng, and Joakim Noah riding the pine.However, with injuries piling up and the Bulls currently Denver Broncos jersey
on an eight-game losing streak, the team's new acquisitions, along with their recent draft picks, are finding their way into games, and not just in "scrub time."The box score for Tuesday night's game against the Grizzlies would've looked pretty funny if presented to a Bulls fan before this season: no Rose, Deng, Noah, Thomas, or John Salmonsthe projected starting lineup in the preseason. Their most recent draft picks, Taj Gibson and James Johnson, getting 26 minutes...each. And the three leading scorers in the game were Murray (25), Hakim Warrick (22), and Law (18)all players that were in trade deadline deals.But with a disappointing end to the 2009-10 season comes the optimism of auditioning cheap role players that could join the team next season.And while these moves were initially made to clear cap space for the much anticipated 2010 offseason, there's no doubt that with only six roster players set to return next season the Bulls will have to find cheap alternatives to fill out their roster if, in fact, they dish out a max contract to a Dwyane Wade or LeBron James-type player.Now I've been riding the Warrick train since he arrived from the Bucks (for John Salmons) and still think that he would be a good complement to next year's squad. However, the most impressive showing I've seen from a newcomer since the tradeDetroit Lions
deadline was Acie Law's performance against the Grizzlies.Law, who averages just above 12 minutes per game while only playing in 131 games in his three-year career, played harder and with more passion than any Bulls' player since Noah was sidelined with plantar fasciitis earlier this season.The former first-team All-American in college showed why he was taken with the 11th overall pick in the 2007 draft.He was 6-11 from the field (1-3 from behind the arc) and 5-6 from the free throw line, coming within two points of his career high that was set last season with the Atlanta Hawks.Joining Law with impressive play as of late has been the Bulls' No. 1 pick of last summer's draft, James Johnson. While Tuesday night's game may not seem like much, he still contributed four blocks while playing with incredible defensive intensity, showing the athleticism that was the reason the Bulls took him instead of a DeJuan Blair-type player.Johnson also impressed in the two games previous to Tuesday. Last Thursday, he had 13 points, four assists, and three steals in Green Bay Packers jersey
a losing effort to the Magic. Friday against the Heat, he put up a career-high 20 points on 8-11 shooting and added six rebounds and two blocks.But while the recent injuries to the Bulls' top players have been the main reason for their slide in the standings, it's quietly creating an opportunity for players who usually don't see much floor time to audition for a job with the team come next season.And with only six players returning to the Bulls, low-paying roster spots will inevitably be available.
on an eight-game losing streak, the team's new acquisitions, along with their recent draft picks, are finding their way into games, and not just in "scrub time."The box score for Tuesday night's game against the Grizzlies would've looked pretty funny if presented to a Bulls fan before this season: no Rose, Deng, Noah, Thomas, or John Salmonsthe projected starting lineup in the preseason. Their most recent draft picks, Taj Gibson and James Johnson, getting 26 minutes...each. And the three leading scorers in the game were Murray (25), Hakim Warrick (22), and Law (18)all players that were in trade deadline deals.But with a disappointing end to the 2009-10 season comes the optimism of auditioning cheap role players that could join the team next season.And while these moves were initially made to clear cap space for the much anticipated 2010 offseason, there's no doubt that with only six roster players set to return next season the Bulls will have to find cheap alternatives to fill out their roster if, in fact, they dish out a max contract to a Dwyane Wade or LeBron James-type player.Now I've been riding the Warrick train since he arrived from the Bucks (for John Salmons) and still think that he would be a good complement to next year's squad. However, the most impressive showing I've seen from a newcomer since the tradeDetroit Lions
deadline was Acie Law's performance against the Grizzlies.Law, who averages just above 12 minutes per game while only playing in 131 games in his three-year career, played harder and with more passion than any Bulls' player since Noah was sidelined with plantar fasciitis earlier this season.The former first-team All-American in college showed why he was taken with the 11th overall pick in the 2007 draft.He was 6-11 from the field (1-3 from behind the arc) and 5-6 from the free throw line, coming within two points of his career high that was set last season with the Atlanta Hawks.Joining Law with impressive play as of late has been the Bulls' No. 1 pick of last summer's draft, James Johnson. While Tuesday night's game may not seem like much, he still contributed four blocks while playing with incredible defensive intensity, showing the athleticism that was the reason the Bulls took him instead of a DeJuan Blair-type player.Johnson also impressed in the two games previous to Tuesday. Last Thursday, he had 13 points, four assists, and three steals in Green Bay Packers jersey
a losing effort to the Magic. Friday against the Heat, he put up a career-high 20 points on 8-11 shooting and added six rebounds and two blocks.But while the recent injuries to the Bulls' top players have been the main reason for their slide in the standings, it's quietly creating an opportunity for players who usually don't see much floor time to audition for a job with the team come next season.And with only six players returning to the Bulls, low-paying roster spots will inevitably be available.
2010年12月30日星期四
30 Dec 10 All-NBA Teams: Let The Arguments Begin
Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesEach year, the NBA names 15 players to its three all-NBA teams. With half a dozen games left, Ill indicate whom I would pick. I know that people will disagree with some of my picks. That fine. I will not spend much time discussing the no-brainers. Ill focus on the close calls. But first, a couple of preliminary explanations:No David Lee: In terms of his individual statistics, David Lee belongs somewhere on the three all-NBA teams. Just last night he had an incredible line of 37 points, 20 rebounds, and 10Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
assists! In a losing effort. To the Golden State Warriors. The point is, it is extremely difficult to evaluate a player production on losing teams playing meaningless games. Would Lee average 20.3 points and 11.3 rebounds on the Cavaliers or the Lakers? Not a chance. Hed play, of course, and no doubt be a valued contributor, but it impossible to tell at what level. My all-NBA teams will strongly reflect the league best and winningest teamsthey will consist in the players who did the most to make those teams among the best and the winningest. No one makes my list whose team isn currently projecting to a minimum of 45 wins. Sorry David.No Denver Nuggets: But there are a few teams who make that mark who aren represented, namely Denver, Portland, and Milwaukee.People will scream about Carmelo. Well, sorry, but Melo is only second on his team in overall production, in terms of season totals (he behind the steady Nene). He missed 13 games, yet Denver has managed to cruise along without him. In fact, Denver has managed to cruise along in spite of Melo 13 missed games, Chauncey 9 missed games, Kenyon Martin 21 missed games (and counting), J.R. Smith 7 missed games, and Ty Lawson 17 missed games. It a remarkable testimony to George Karl coaching skills, as well as to Nene and Chris Anderson, whove basically been the steady reliable guys.But the result is that Denver, who project to 53 wins and the 7th best record in the NBA, do not have one guy who has the overall numbers (season totals, not averages) to justify, in my mind, a spot on one of the all-NBA teams. Similar factors apply to Portland. Milwaukee just barely makes the cutoff of the best teams, in any case, and they have been a very balanced team rather than a team led by one standout player.OK, then why does Pau Gasol make your list, who has missed 17 games? The Lakers have won more than Denver, and Gasol contribution has been significant enough to warrant his inclusion.How can you have Tim Duncan as a center? Because he plays center. In fact, San Antonio has no other centers on their roster. They persist for some reason in listing McDyess as their center and Duncan as their power forward, but Duncan jumps center at the beginnings of Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
games, he defends the other team center, and he is defended by the other team center. A rose by any other name is still a rose.I have allowed myself some flexibility in positions, with the focus on choosing the best five players for 1st team, the next best five for 2nd team, etc. Josh Smith plays the four for Atlanta, but I think we can all agree that he can play the three without any difficulty, so if I can make a better all-NBA second team with Smith at the three, that where Ill put him.One last note: I do not necessarily consider that the players listed below are the best players at their positions. I believe they are the players who have earned their spots on the 2010 all-NBA teams based on their contributions to their teams success. Thus, I believe that Brandon Roy is a better player than Joe Johnson, but I have Johnson at 3rd team all-NBA because Roy has missed 15 games and because the Hawks have been better than the Trailblazers. OK, so here are the teams:1st TeamF: LeBron JamesF: Kevin DurantC: Dwight HowardSG: Kobe BryantPG: Steve Nash*2nd TeamSF: Josh Smith*PF: Dirk NowitzkiC: Pau Gasol*SG: Dwyane WadePG: Deron Williams*3rd TeamSF: Lamar Odom*PF: Carlos BoozerC: Tim DuncanSG: Joe Johnson*PG: Rajon Rondo* The asterisks indicate the choices where I expect some contention. I have already discussed Joe Johnson and Josh Smith (also Tim Duncan at center). Ill talk about the other controversial choices.I assume that for almost everyone, four players are a lock for 1st team (James, Durant, Howard, and Bryant). I don care that James and Durant both play the three. A team with Howard, James, and Durant on its front line would have no rebounding problem, nor any problem defending the other team four. Im betting that people will not like the choice of Nash on 1st team. Let me say, first of all, that for me Nash is barely ahead of Wade, Deron Williams, and Rondo, and that the last half-dozen games could scramble the places of those four entirely. Is Wade the second best guard in the NBA? Certainly, but I feel that, as of right now, Nash has earned the 1st team spot, by a slight margin.For now, the fact is that the Suns are tied with Dallas for 2nd best record in the tough Western Conference, they project to win 54 games, they do it mostly with offense, and like it or not, Steve Nash (not Amare Stoudemire) is the key to their offense. Nash is one of the most efficient and productive offensive players in the NBA, and throwaway players from other teams (Frye, Dudley, even Grant Hill) come to Phoenix and suddenly look like top-notch offensive players, because of Nash.If Amare ever does finally go somewhere else, I think we will see a different player without Nash to get him the ball in those pick-and-rolls. Does Nash suck on defense? Pretty much, but the Suns are able to cover enough for his weaknesses that they still average 4.7 points per game more than their opponents. Should Nash have won back-to-back MVP awards? No, but we can keep punishing him for that. He is a great offensive player. Im also guessing that some folks in Laker nation will actually object to Gasol being 2nd team, and Odom being 3rd team (and Im Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
aware Odom mostly plays the four, but it a given that he can play the three equally well). All I can say is that without their production, L.A. would not have the second best record in the league. Is Odom better than Carmelo? No, but he's done as much to maintain L.A. at the top as Carmelo has done to maintain Denver near the top, but not quite. I guess some folks will object to Rondo, but again, without Rondo, there no way the Celtics would be where they are. That about it. Let the carping begin! Release the Kracken!
assists! In a losing effort. To the Golden State Warriors. The point is, it is extremely difficult to evaluate a player production on losing teams playing meaningless games. Would Lee average 20.3 points and 11.3 rebounds on the Cavaliers or the Lakers? Not a chance. Hed play, of course, and no doubt be a valued contributor, but it impossible to tell at what level. My all-NBA teams will strongly reflect the league best and winningest teamsthey will consist in the players who did the most to make those teams among the best and the winningest. No one makes my list whose team isn currently projecting to a minimum of 45 wins. Sorry David.No Denver Nuggets: But there are a few teams who make that mark who aren represented, namely Denver, Portland, and Milwaukee.People will scream about Carmelo. Well, sorry, but Melo is only second on his team in overall production, in terms of season totals (he behind the steady Nene). He missed 13 games, yet Denver has managed to cruise along without him. In fact, Denver has managed to cruise along in spite of Melo 13 missed games, Chauncey 9 missed games, Kenyon Martin 21 missed games (and counting), J.R. Smith 7 missed games, and Ty Lawson 17 missed games. It a remarkable testimony to George Karl coaching skills, as well as to Nene and Chris Anderson, whove basically been the steady reliable guys.But the result is that Denver, who project to 53 wins and the 7th best record in the NBA, do not have one guy who has the overall numbers (season totals, not averages) to justify, in my mind, a spot on one of the all-NBA teams. Similar factors apply to Portland. Milwaukee just barely makes the cutoff of the best teams, in any case, and they have been a very balanced team rather than a team led by one standout player.OK, then why does Pau Gasol make your list, who has missed 17 games? The Lakers have won more than Denver, and Gasol contribution has been significant enough to warrant his inclusion.How can you have Tim Duncan as a center? Because he plays center. In fact, San Antonio has no other centers on their roster. They persist for some reason in listing McDyess as their center and Duncan as their power forward, but Duncan jumps center at the beginnings of Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
games, he defends the other team center, and he is defended by the other team center. A rose by any other name is still a rose.I have allowed myself some flexibility in positions, with the focus on choosing the best five players for 1st team, the next best five for 2nd team, etc. Josh Smith plays the four for Atlanta, but I think we can all agree that he can play the three without any difficulty, so if I can make a better all-NBA second team with Smith at the three, that where Ill put him.One last note: I do not necessarily consider that the players listed below are the best players at their positions. I believe they are the players who have earned their spots on the 2010 all-NBA teams based on their contributions to their teams success. Thus, I believe that Brandon Roy is a better player than Joe Johnson, but I have Johnson at 3rd team all-NBA because Roy has missed 15 games and because the Hawks have been better than the Trailblazers. OK, so here are the teams:1st TeamF: LeBron JamesF: Kevin DurantC: Dwight HowardSG: Kobe BryantPG: Steve Nash*2nd TeamSF: Josh Smith*PF: Dirk NowitzkiC: Pau Gasol*SG: Dwyane WadePG: Deron Williams*3rd TeamSF: Lamar Odom*PF: Carlos BoozerC: Tim DuncanSG: Joe Johnson*PG: Rajon Rondo* The asterisks indicate the choices where I expect some contention. I have already discussed Joe Johnson and Josh Smith (also Tim Duncan at center). Ill talk about the other controversial choices.I assume that for almost everyone, four players are a lock for 1st team (James, Durant, Howard, and Bryant). I don care that James and Durant both play the three. A team with Howard, James, and Durant on its front line would have no rebounding problem, nor any problem defending the other team four. Im betting that people will not like the choice of Nash on 1st team. Let me say, first of all, that for me Nash is barely ahead of Wade, Deron Williams, and Rondo, and that the last half-dozen games could scramble the places of those four entirely. Is Wade the second best guard in the NBA? Certainly, but I feel that, as of right now, Nash has earned the 1st team spot, by a slight margin.For now, the fact is that the Suns are tied with Dallas for 2nd best record in the tough Western Conference, they project to win 54 games, they do it mostly with offense, and like it or not, Steve Nash (not Amare Stoudemire) is the key to their offense. Nash is one of the most efficient and productive offensive players in the NBA, and throwaway players from other teams (Frye, Dudley, even Grant Hill) come to Phoenix and suddenly look like top-notch offensive players, because of Nash.If Amare ever does finally go somewhere else, I think we will see a different player without Nash to get him the ball in those pick-and-rolls. Does Nash suck on defense? Pretty much, but the Suns are able to cover enough for his weaknesses that they still average 4.7 points per game more than their opponents. Should Nash have won back-to-back MVP awards? No, but we can keep punishing him for that. He is a great offensive player. Im also guessing that some folks in Laker nation will actually object to Gasol being 2nd team, and Odom being 3rd team (and Im Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
aware Odom mostly plays the four, but it a given that he can play the three equally well). All I can say is that without their production, L.A. would not have the second best record in the league. Is Odom better than Carmelo? No, but he's done as much to maintain L.A. at the top as Carmelo has done to maintain Denver near the top, but not quite. I guess some folks will object to Rondo, but again, without Rondo, there no way the Celtics would be where they are. That about it. Let the carping begin! Release the Kracken!
30 Dec 10 All-NBA Teams: Let The Arguments Begin
Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesEach year, the NBA names 15 players to its three all-NBA teams. With half a dozen games left, Ill indicate whom I would pick. I know that people will disagree with some of my picks. That fine. I will not spend much time discussing the no-brainers. Ill focus on the close calls. But first, a couple of preliminary explanations:No David Lee: In terms of his individual statistics, David Lee belongs somewhere on the three all-NBA teams. Just last night he had an incredible line of 37 points, 20 rebounds, and 10Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
assists! In a losing effort. To the Golden State Warriors. The point is, it is extremely difficult to evaluate a player production on losing teams playing meaningless games. Would Lee average 20.3 points and 11.3 rebounds on the Cavaliers or the Lakers? Not a chance. Hed play, of course, and no doubt be a valued contributor, but it impossible to tell at what level. My all-NBA teams will strongly reflect the league best and winningest teamsthey will consist in the players who did the most to make those teams among the best and the winningest. No one makes my list whose team isn currently projecting to a minimum of 45 wins. Sorry David.No Denver Nuggets: But there are a few teams who make that mark who aren represented, namely Denver, Portland, and Milwaukee.People will scream about Carmelo. Well, sorry, but Melo is only second on his team in overall production, in terms of season totals (he behind the steady Nene). He missed 13 games, yet Denver has managed to cruise along without him. In fact, Denver has managed to cruise along in spite of Melo 13 missed games, Chauncey 9 missed games, Kenyon Martin 21 missed games (and counting), J.R. Smith 7 missed games, and Ty Lawson 17 missed games. It a remarkable testimony to George Karl coaching skills, as well as to Nene and Chris Anderson, whove basically been the steady reliable guys.But the result is that Denver, who project to 53 wins and the 7th best record in the NBA, do not have one guy who has the overall numbers (season totals, not averages) to justify, in my mind, a spot on one of the all-NBA teams. Similar factors apply to Portland. Milwaukee just barely makes the cutoff of the best teams, in any case, and they have been a very balanced team rather than a team led by one standout player.OK, then why does Pau Gasol make your list, who has missed 17 games? The Lakers have won more than Denver, and Gasol contribution has been significant enough to warrant his inclusion.How can you have Tim Duncan as a center? Because he plays center. In fact, San Antonio has no other centers on their roster. They persist for some reason in listing McDyess as their center and Duncan as their power forward, but Duncan jumps center at the beginnings of Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
games, he defends the other team center, and he is defended by the other team center. A rose by any other name is still a rose.I have allowed myself some flexibility in positions, with the focus on choosing the best five players for 1st team, the next best five for 2nd team, etc. Josh Smith plays the four for Atlanta, but I think we can all agree that he can play the three without any difficulty, so if I can make a better all-NBA second team with Smith at the three, that where Ill put him.One last note: I do not necessarily consider that the players listed below are the best players at their positions. I believe they are the players who have earned their spots on the 2010 all-NBA teams based on their contributions to their teams success. Thus, I believe that Brandon Roy is a better player than Joe Johnson, but I have Johnson at 3rd team all-NBA because Roy has missed 15 games and because the Hawks have been better than the Trailblazers. OK, so here are the teams:1st TeamF: LeBron JamesF: Kevin DurantC: Dwight HowardSG: Kobe BryantPG: Steve Nash*2nd TeamSF: Josh Smith*PF: Dirk NowitzkiC: Pau Gasol*SG: Dwyane WadePG: Deron Williams*3rd TeamSF: Lamar Odom*PF: Carlos BoozerC: Tim DuncanSG: Joe Johnson*PG: Rajon Rondo* The asterisks indicate the choices where I expect some contention. I have already discussed Joe Johnson and Josh Smith (also Tim Duncan at center). Ill talk about the other controversial choices.I assume that for almost everyone, four players are a lock for 1st team (James, Durant, Howard, and Bryant). I don care that James and Durant both play the three. A team with Howard, James, and Durant on its front line would have no rebounding problem, nor any problem defending the other team four. Im betting that people will not like the choice of Nash on 1st team. Let me say, first of all, that for me Nash is barely ahead of Wade, Deron Williams, and Rondo, and that the last half-dozen games could scramble the places of those four entirely. Is Wade the second best guard in the NBA? Certainly, but I feel that, as of right now, Nash has earned the 1st team spot, by a slight margin.For now, the fact is that the Suns are tied with Dallas for 2nd best record in the tough Western Conference, they project to win 54 games, they do it mostly with offense, and like it or not, Steve Nash (not Amare Stoudemire) is the key to their offense. Nash is one of the most efficient and productive offensive players in the NBA, and throwaway players from other teams (Frye, Dudley, even Grant Hill) come to Phoenix and suddenly look like top-notch offensive players, because of Nash.If Amare ever does finally go somewhere else, I think we will see a different player without Nash to get him the ball in those pick-and-rolls. Does Nash suck on defense? Pretty much, but the Suns are able to cover enough for his weaknesses that they still average 4.7 points per game more than their opponents. Should Nash have won back-to-back MVP awards? No, but we can keep punishing him for that. He is a great offensive player. Im also guessing that some folks in Laker nation will actually object to Gasol being 2nd team, and Odom being 3rd team (and Im Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
aware Odom mostly plays the four, but it a given that he can play the three equally well). All I can say is that without their production, L.A. would not have the second best record in the league. Is Odom better than Carmelo? No, but he's done as much to maintain L.A. at the top as Carmelo has done to maintain Denver near the top, but not quite. I guess some folks will object to Rondo, but again, without Rondo, there no way the Celtics would be where they are. That about it. Let the carping begin! Release the Kracken!
assists! In a losing effort. To the Golden State Warriors. The point is, it is extremely difficult to evaluate a player production on losing teams playing meaningless games. Would Lee average 20.3 points and 11.3 rebounds on the Cavaliers or the Lakers? Not a chance. Hed play, of course, and no doubt be a valued contributor, but it impossible to tell at what level. My all-NBA teams will strongly reflect the league best and winningest teamsthey will consist in the players who did the most to make those teams among the best and the winningest. No one makes my list whose team isn currently projecting to a minimum of 45 wins. Sorry David.No Denver Nuggets: But there are a few teams who make that mark who aren represented, namely Denver, Portland, and Milwaukee.People will scream about Carmelo. Well, sorry, but Melo is only second on his team in overall production, in terms of season totals (he behind the steady Nene). He missed 13 games, yet Denver has managed to cruise along without him. In fact, Denver has managed to cruise along in spite of Melo 13 missed games, Chauncey 9 missed games, Kenyon Martin 21 missed games (and counting), J.R. Smith 7 missed games, and Ty Lawson 17 missed games. It a remarkable testimony to George Karl coaching skills, as well as to Nene and Chris Anderson, whove basically been the steady reliable guys.But the result is that Denver, who project to 53 wins and the 7th best record in the NBA, do not have one guy who has the overall numbers (season totals, not averages) to justify, in my mind, a spot on one of the all-NBA teams. Similar factors apply to Portland. Milwaukee just barely makes the cutoff of the best teams, in any case, and they have been a very balanced team rather than a team led by one standout player.OK, then why does Pau Gasol make your list, who has missed 17 games? The Lakers have won more than Denver, and Gasol contribution has been significant enough to warrant his inclusion.How can you have Tim Duncan as a center? Because he plays center. In fact, San Antonio has no other centers on their roster. They persist for some reason in listing McDyess as their center and Duncan as their power forward, but Duncan jumps center at the beginnings of Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
games, he defends the other team center, and he is defended by the other team center. A rose by any other name is still a rose.I have allowed myself some flexibility in positions, with the focus on choosing the best five players for 1st team, the next best five for 2nd team, etc. Josh Smith plays the four for Atlanta, but I think we can all agree that he can play the three without any difficulty, so if I can make a better all-NBA second team with Smith at the three, that where Ill put him.One last note: I do not necessarily consider that the players listed below are the best players at their positions. I believe they are the players who have earned their spots on the 2010 all-NBA teams based on their contributions to their teams success. Thus, I believe that Brandon Roy is a better player than Joe Johnson, but I have Johnson at 3rd team all-NBA because Roy has missed 15 games and because the Hawks have been better than the Trailblazers. OK, so here are the teams:1st TeamF: LeBron JamesF: Kevin DurantC: Dwight HowardSG: Kobe BryantPG: Steve Nash*2nd TeamSF: Josh Smith*PF: Dirk NowitzkiC: Pau Gasol*SG: Dwyane WadePG: Deron Williams*3rd TeamSF: Lamar Odom*PF: Carlos BoozerC: Tim DuncanSG: Joe Johnson*PG: Rajon Rondo* The asterisks indicate the choices where I expect some contention. I have already discussed Joe Johnson and Josh Smith (also Tim Duncan at center). Ill talk about the other controversial choices.I assume that for almost everyone, four players are a lock for 1st team (James, Durant, Howard, and Bryant). I don care that James and Durant both play the three. A team with Howard, James, and Durant on its front line would have no rebounding problem, nor any problem defending the other team four. Im betting that people will not like the choice of Nash on 1st team. Let me say, first of all, that for me Nash is barely ahead of Wade, Deron Williams, and Rondo, and that the last half-dozen games could scramble the places of those four entirely. Is Wade the second best guard in the NBA? Certainly, but I feel that, as of right now, Nash has earned the 1st team spot, by a slight margin.For now, the fact is that the Suns are tied with Dallas for 2nd best record in the tough Western Conference, they project to win 54 games, they do it mostly with offense, and like it or not, Steve Nash (not Amare Stoudemire) is the key to their offense. Nash is one of the most efficient and productive offensive players in the NBA, and throwaway players from other teams (Frye, Dudley, even Grant Hill) come to Phoenix and suddenly look like top-notch offensive players, because of Nash.If Amare ever does finally go somewhere else, I think we will see a different player without Nash to get him the ball in those pick-and-rolls. Does Nash suck on defense? Pretty much, but the Suns are able to cover enough for his weaknesses that they still average 4.7 points per game more than their opponents. Should Nash have won back-to-back MVP awards? No, but we can keep punishing him for that. He is a great offensive player. Im also guessing that some folks in Laker nation will actually object to Gasol being 2nd team, and Odom being 3rd team (and Im Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
aware Odom mostly plays the four, but it a given that he can play the three equally well). All I can say is that without their production, L.A. would not have the second best record in the league. Is Odom better than Carmelo? No, but he's done as much to maintain L.A. at the top as Carmelo has done to maintain Denver near the top, but not quite. I guess some folks will object to Rondo, but again, without Rondo, there no way the Celtics would be where they are. That about it. Let the carping begin! Release the Kracken!
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 Five Reasons Why LeBron James Might Not Come To New York or New Jersey
Chris Graythen/Getty Images1) No City Clause in His Nike ContractWithout comparison, LeBron biggest source of income comes from his Nike contract, which he recently re-signed without a city clause in it.Many athletes have included city clauses in their contracts in recent years to ensure that they get fairly Philadelphia Eagles jersey
compensated if they expose a company brand to a larger number of people as a result of playing in a major market. LeBron wasn interested in this, which begs the question, why not? 2) He Will Be 26 This DecemberIf LeBron decided to sign with the Knicks or the Nets, it would probably be at least two years (and most likely longer) before he had any chance at winning an NBA title. LeBron knows that there only one way to achieve basketball immortality, and that to win NBA titles. Do you think he wants to wait until he 29 before he has another reasonable chance at winning an NBA title? The Cavs just won the Eastern Conference.3) He Does Not Want To Be Painted With the Alex Rodriguez BrushThings started to go downhill for Alex Rodriguez when he signed a $200-million contract with the Texas Rangers.Prior to that deal, Rodriguez was simply viewed as an unbelievable talented young ball player.After that deal he was viewed as a money-hungry prima donna.Had Rodriguez stayed in Seattle and signed a very high yet Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
not overly excessive contract, one could only assume that his image would be less tarnished than it is today.4) Other Teams Also Have Money To SpendThe Knicks and the Nets have a ton of cap space this offseason. But theyre not the only two teams with cap space.Miami, Chicago, and Oklahoma Cityall of whom have made the 2010 playoffswill also have a large amount of cap space.And what about the Cavs?They will have plenty of money to VERY fairly compensate LeBron throughout the duration of his next contract. 5) How Do We Know if He Likes New York? Many people are simply assuming that LeBron likes the New York/New Jersey area, but how do we know that for sure?Not everyone likes New York or New York sports fans.For all of the players that have signed with theSan Diego Chargers jersey
Yankees and Mets in recent years, there have been many more that have had no interest in playing in New York.LeBron has spent his entire life in Ohio. In New York the atmosphere is different, the people are different, and the culture is different.Some people like that difference and some don.
compensated if they expose a company brand to a larger number of people as a result of playing in a major market. LeBron wasn interested in this, which begs the question, why not? 2) He Will Be 26 This DecemberIf LeBron decided to sign with the Knicks or the Nets, it would probably be at least two years (and most likely longer) before he had any chance at winning an NBA title. LeBron knows that there only one way to achieve basketball immortality, and that to win NBA titles. Do you think he wants to wait until he 29 before he has another reasonable chance at winning an NBA title? The Cavs just won the Eastern Conference.3) He Does Not Want To Be Painted With the Alex Rodriguez BrushThings started to go downhill for Alex Rodriguez when he signed a $200-million contract with the Texas Rangers.Prior to that deal, Rodriguez was simply viewed as an unbelievable talented young ball player.After that deal he was viewed as a money-hungry prima donna.Had Rodriguez stayed in Seattle and signed a very high yet Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
not overly excessive contract, one could only assume that his image would be less tarnished than it is today.4) Other Teams Also Have Money To SpendThe Knicks and the Nets have a ton of cap space this offseason. But theyre not the only two teams with cap space.Miami, Chicago, and Oklahoma Cityall of whom have made the 2010 playoffswill also have a large amount of cap space.And what about the Cavs?They will have plenty of money to VERY fairly compensate LeBron throughout the duration of his next contract. 5) How Do We Know if He Likes New York? Many people are simply assuming that LeBron likes the New York/New Jersey area, but how do we know that for sure?Not everyone likes New York or New York sports fans.For all of the players that have signed with theSan Diego Chargers jersey
Yankees and Mets in recent years, there have been many more that have had no interest in playing in New York.LeBron has spent his entire life in Ohio. In New York the atmosphere is different, the people are different, and the culture is different.Some people like that difference and some don.
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 Celtics Need The Bench to Stop LeBron
Gregory Shamus/Getty ImagesLet's start by stating the obvious, the Celtics are an old team by NBA standards at least.The Celtics went on a downturn at the end of the season, that had analysts and fans all accepting the end of the Celtics current run of domination. Then, the Celtics found their NBA Playoff Fountain of Youth, beating the Miami Heat in five games.Not many people thought the Celtics could make the Cavaliers series competitive. The Celtics fed those doubts Saturday night. After game 1, the Celtics let a late lead slip away. The New York Jets jersey
claims of old legs led the headlines.Last night the Celtics repeated their impressive performance, this time completing the victory and evening up the series at 1 -1 .The start of the series has everyone wondering if those old legs of the Celtics can last long enough to win the series. The key may not be the old legs, but the young ones coming off the bench.In game 1 of the series, the Celtics starters played a total of 196 of a total 240 minutes. Game 2 the story changed, with the Celtics starters only playing a total of 180 minutes. That's a difference of 16 minutes, a little more than a full quarter. The Celtics closed out the game strong, winning by 18 points.The difference doesn't stop with just the number of minutes played. The Celtics bench only put up 12 points in the first game of the series. The Oakland Raiders jersey
Cavaliers back-ups more than doubled that total with 26 points.Game 2, the benches canceled each other out with 27 points each. The benches will be crucial. By giving the 'Big Three' an opportunity to sit, the Celtics keep their ability to win down the stretch. It also puts the pressure back on the Cavaliers.Unlike many on the Celtics bench, the Cavaliers lack real playoff pressure experience. Mo Williams carried the pressure of high expectations into the post-season, after a disappointing performance against the Orlando Magic. Jamison must deal Philadelphia Eagles jersey
with real championship expectations for the first time.Now that LeBron reportedly must deal with an injured elbow, the pressure increases.Game 3 will be critical to winning the series. With a win, the Celtics would be in position to take control of the series with another game in the TD Garden. In order to accomplish that, the Celtics bench, will have to continue it's winning ways.
claims of old legs led the headlines.Last night the Celtics repeated their impressive performance, this time completing the victory and evening up the series at 1 -1 .The start of the series has everyone wondering if those old legs of the Celtics can last long enough to win the series. The key may not be the old legs, but the young ones coming off the bench.In game 1 of the series, the Celtics starters played a total of 196 of a total 240 minutes. Game 2 the story changed, with the Celtics starters only playing a total of 180 minutes. That's a difference of 16 minutes, a little more than a full quarter. The Celtics closed out the game strong, winning by 18 points.The difference doesn't stop with just the number of minutes played. The Celtics bench only put up 12 points in the first game of the series. The Oakland Raiders jersey
Cavaliers back-ups more than doubled that total with 26 points.Game 2, the benches canceled each other out with 27 points each. The benches will be crucial. By giving the 'Big Three' an opportunity to sit, the Celtics keep their ability to win down the stretch. It also puts the pressure back on the Cavaliers.Unlike many on the Celtics bench, the Cavaliers lack real playoff pressure experience. Mo Williams carried the pressure of high expectations into the post-season, after a disappointing performance against the Orlando Magic. Jamison must deal Philadelphia Eagles jersey
with real championship expectations for the first time.Now that LeBron reportedly must deal with an injured elbow, the pressure increases.Game 3 will be critical to winning the series. With a win, the Celtics would be in position to take control of the series with another game in the TD Garden. In order to accomplish that, the Celtics bench, will have to continue it's winning ways.
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 Pau Gasol Delivering Spectacular Postseason Quietly, Efficiently
Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesPau Gasollacks the forceful personality and handsomefeatures that made Magic Johnson such an icon in Los Angeles.What Johnson didn't have, though, was Gasol's wonderful post game.Gasol may not be George Clooney in a jersey, but his interior offensive playoffers Houston Texans jersey
alesson inbeauty.Gasol laid his skills outfor all to see in the fourth quarter of LA'sWednesday night victory over Phoenix. Just as the Suns seizedthe tempo, Pau and Kobe Bryant went to work.Their two-man pick-and-roll game caused fits forthe Phoenix defense. The scorekeeper should have prematurely awardedLA two points, just to save everyone time, whenever Gasolshowed the high screen.Pau made the right move on each offensive series, either rolling off the initialcontact and beatingthe defensive switch by at least a step, or flashing to the bucket after recognizing that Phoenix hadovercommitted to thepick.His signature post move, where with the ballslightly abovechest level he shows left, spins right, and shoots with the left hand high, also worked wondersin Game Two.Gasol clinched the contest with an array ofuncontested lay-ups and baby left hooks. He benefited from a handful of Bryant's spot-on passes. But Gasolconsistently found the right spot.It's a recurring theme in his game.With his stellar performance on Wednesday, Gasol finally enjoyed the solo spotlight for the first time in his Lakers tenure. While he's always received justified credit for pushingLA from a run-of-the-mill club to a championship contender, Pau has rarely dominated the closing minutes of a close game in such a primetime atmosphere.Blame Kobe for being too good of a closer, I guess.As the Lakers closed to within two games of their third consecutive Western Conference championship, all with Gasol roaming the low block, the national viewing audience finally observed a loud showing from the passionate player. It was a showcase worth discussing around the office, or at the gym, or on campus the next day.Damn, that Pau Gasol can play basketball, theyd say. Truth is,throughout the headline filled 2010 NBA playoffs, the man has softly been plugging along at an MVP-caliber pace.Gasol basketball IQ on a given night is better than most point guard on a career night. If you cloned his brain, and sent four other position players with the same mental makeup on the floor, hardwood fans would never turn the channel.Itd be a lovely show, filled with a smorgasbord of crisp passes to backdoor cutters, leading to effortless bucket after effortless bucket. The back to the basket play and splendid ball movement would make any coach, from pee wee to the pros, rewind the action and hit record on the DVR.You couldn teach such precision without a visual aid.Gasol is a superstar, though his team Indianapolis Colts jersey
oriented game sometimes fails to get the point across. There no stat line for the heady passes and great positioning that make life easier for other scorers.Paunever misses a slasher and rarely forces the issue with the ball in his grasp. He an interior jack of all trades-calculated but often flashy, patient but quick to spot the open cutter. While the talent is pure, his postseason play has been even richer.Gasol second season stat line, 21-12-4 on 58 percent shooting, looks pretty darn good from the outset. Dig deeper and youll find that he posted four straight double-doubles going head-to-head with Carlos Boozer in LA lopsided, second round series sweep over Utah.He shot under 50 percent in just one of the Lakers 12 playoff games. He made up forthat rocky 47 minutes and 59.5 seconds by tipping in a Bryant miss, in the right position once again, for a series clinching win against Oklahoma.The general public knew Gasol, along with fellow tree Andrew Bynum, caused nightmare problems for opposing coaches. The public also knew that Pau could play.But they didn know he could dominate. Surprises can be fun to witness.The bullet points of his excellent 2010 playoff resume (series clinching bucket, manhandling Boozer, and picking apart a Suns team everyone had come to fear) Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
stacks up well against any ball player recent body of work.If not for Rajon Rondo well-rounded masterpieces and Bryant consecutive scoring flurries, Gasol would be the toast of the playoffs.If he keeps up this extremely high level of play, Gasol could hoist a Finals MVP trophy sometime next month. As part of the honor, hell have to give a postgame speech on the platform as confetti showered the court.Pau will probably make that look easy, too.
alesson inbeauty.Gasol laid his skills outfor all to see in the fourth quarter of LA'sWednesday night victory over Phoenix. Just as the Suns seizedthe tempo, Pau and Kobe Bryant went to work.Their two-man pick-and-roll game caused fits forthe Phoenix defense. The scorekeeper should have prematurely awardedLA two points, just to save everyone time, whenever Gasolshowed the high screen.Pau made the right move on each offensive series, either rolling off the initialcontact and beatingthe defensive switch by at least a step, or flashing to the bucket after recognizing that Phoenix hadovercommitted to thepick.His signature post move, where with the ballslightly abovechest level he shows left, spins right, and shoots with the left hand high, also worked wondersin Game Two.Gasol clinched the contest with an array ofuncontested lay-ups and baby left hooks. He benefited from a handful of Bryant's spot-on passes. But Gasolconsistently found the right spot.It's a recurring theme in his game.With his stellar performance on Wednesday, Gasol finally enjoyed the solo spotlight for the first time in his Lakers tenure. While he's always received justified credit for pushingLA from a run-of-the-mill club to a championship contender, Pau has rarely dominated the closing minutes of a close game in such a primetime atmosphere.Blame Kobe for being too good of a closer, I guess.As the Lakers closed to within two games of their third consecutive Western Conference championship, all with Gasol roaming the low block, the national viewing audience finally observed a loud showing from the passionate player. It was a showcase worth discussing around the office, or at the gym, or on campus the next day.Damn, that Pau Gasol can play basketball, theyd say. Truth is,throughout the headline filled 2010 NBA playoffs, the man has softly been plugging along at an MVP-caliber pace.Gasol basketball IQ on a given night is better than most point guard on a career night. If you cloned his brain, and sent four other position players with the same mental makeup on the floor, hardwood fans would never turn the channel.Itd be a lovely show, filled with a smorgasbord of crisp passes to backdoor cutters, leading to effortless bucket after effortless bucket. The back to the basket play and splendid ball movement would make any coach, from pee wee to the pros, rewind the action and hit record on the DVR.You couldn teach such precision without a visual aid.Gasol is a superstar, though his team Indianapolis Colts jersey
oriented game sometimes fails to get the point across. There no stat line for the heady passes and great positioning that make life easier for other scorers.Paunever misses a slasher and rarely forces the issue with the ball in his grasp. He an interior jack of all trades-calculated but often flashy, patient but quick to spot the open cutter. While the talent is pure, his postseason play has been even richer.Gasol second season stat line, 21-12-4 on 58 percent shooting, looks pretty darn good from the outset. Dig deeper and youll find that he posted four straight double-doubles going head-to-head with Carlos Boozer in LA lopsided, second round series sweep over Utah.He shot under 50 percent in just one of the Lakers 12 playoff games. He made up forthat rocky 47 minutes and 59.5 seconds by tipping in a Bryant miss, in the right position once again, for a series clinching win against Oklahoma.The general public knew Gasol, along with fellow tree Andrew Bynum, caused nightmare problems for opposing coaches. The public also knew that Pau could play.But they didn know he could dominate. Surprises can be fun to witness.The bullet points of his excellent 2010 playoff resume (series clinching bucket, manhandling Boozer, and picking apart a Suns team everyone had come to fear) Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
stacks up well against any ball player recent body of work.If not for Rajon Rondo well-rounded masterpieces and Bryant consecutive scoring flurries, Gasol would be the toast of the playoffs.If he keeps up this extremely high level of play, Gasol could hoist a Finals MVP trophy sometime next month. As part of the honor, hell have to give a postgame speech on the platform as confetti showered the court.Pau will probably make that look easy, too.
2010年12月26日星期日
26 Dec 10 Fountain of Youth: Rivers' Plan Keeps Celtics Healthy and Fresh
Jim Rogash/Getty ImagesHe not the best coach in the NBA, and he not the best coach remaining in the playoffs (both of those honors go to Phil Jackson of the Los Angeles Lakers.)He isn some master whiz with X and O, and he not the new coach on the block looking to make a name for himself.But he isReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
exactly what the Boston Celtics needed.Celtics head coach Doc Rivers has proven to be the valuable piece that Boston has needed to ensure that the Celtics Big Three didn go out on a down note.After Christmas, as Boston struggled to a 27-27 record and losing seven of 10 games down the stretch heading in to the playoffs, the basketball world had conceded that the window had closed for Boston and that the Big Three of Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Kevin Garnett was over the hill and that their NBA talents were now no longer sufficient to compete for a title.In many ways, those fears and concerns were valid, as Boston could never maintain any consistency, and home losses to teams such as the New Jersey Nets had the Celtics closer resembling the 2007 debacle rather than the 2008 championship team.Rivers is not the greatest coach to walk the planet. He not the coach that can come in and totally alter a franchise that is down and is filled with young, developing players.If you want proof of that, just look at his track record with the Celtics prior to the 2008 season.It was a team filled with talented, young players such as Kendrick Perkins, Al Jefferson, Gerald Green, Sebastian Telfair, and others like them.But, once he was equipped with a veteran team, the wins for the Celtics began piling up and the Celtics hung championship banner number 17 from the rafters of the TD Bank Garden.Looking back, Rivers was a mere side note on the 2008 squad, as the common belief was that anyone with a basic fundamental understanding of the game of basketball would be able to win with a roster that featured three future Hall of Famers.However, as Boston Big Three aged and injuries caught up to the them, it was Rivers who proved to be arguably Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
the most important piece for Boston as the team looks to grab its second national title in three years.Unlike many coaches in professional sports, Rivers has a firm understanding and appreciation for all 15 of his players, and he not only understands how they all fit into his system, but he also understands how each and every one of them functions.Rivers understood as the Celtics struggled through a dismal second half of the season that, as long as his team was healthy, he could develop a game plan that his starting five would execute, and he knew that his starting five, when healthy could matchup with any team in the league.While the rest of the world doubted, Rivers stayed the course, believing that, at some point, all of the regular season struggles were going to pay off and that the Celtics had what it took to make noise come playoff time.I thought it was the right plan, Rivers said. But it didn look right because we were losing. But guys were resting and conditioning, and I thought that was the only chance we had.Rivers knew what he had, and he knew what needed to be done to extract the best out of his squad.According to Allen, even when the superstar laden Celtics resisted the idea of fewer minutes and reduced roles, all in the name of getting healthy, Rivers insisted that the team would stay the course and would not falter.As players, we kind of fight a little bit, Allen said. We need to do this, we need to do that. Doc would come in to the locker room and say were not changing anything. He stuck to the script the whole time.Even though Boston stars wanted to play and they wanted to experience the immediate success on the court that teams such as the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Orlando Magic were experiencing, Rivers knew that by forgoing playoff positioning and regular season wins for health and fresh legs, his team would be far better equipped to compete come playoff time.In many situations, NBA players would revolt, fight back, and reject their coach if he suggested limited roles, especially of the team was losing like the Celtics were down the stretch.But Doc Rivers is a master motivator, and even when there seems to be nothing left, he knows how to pull every last bit from his players, a talent that only Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
a handful of NBA coaches have.His steady hand, his motivating speeches, and his thorough understanding of the players on his team enabled Rivers to put the Celtics in a situation to achieve something that most NBA fans never thought possible.Following the Celtics Game Six win over Orlando that propelled the Celtics to their 21st NBA Finals appearance, Rivers said that, as a unit, his starting five had never lost a playoff series, and he knew that, when healthy, he had one of, if not the, best team in the league.While he is not the best coach patrolling an NBA sideline, Rivers is one of the best coaches in the league.Had it not been for Rivers, Boston would not be where it is today.Just maybe, as the Celtics prepare to play for their league-leading 18th NBA title, Rivers is the most important piece Boston has.
exactly what the Boston Celtics needed.Celtics head coach Doc Rivers has proven to be the valuable piece that Boston has needed to ensure that the Celtics Big Three didn go out on a down note.After Christmas, as Boston struggled to a 27-27 record and losing seven of 10 games down the stretch heading in to the playoffs, the basketball world had conceded that the window had closed for Boston and that the Big Three of Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Kevin Garnett was over the hill and that their NBA talents were now no longer sufficient to compete for a title.In many ways, those fears and concerns were valid, as Boston could never maintain any consistency, and home losses to teams such as the New Jersey Nets had the Celtics closer resembling the 2007 debacle rather than the 2008 championship team.Rivers is not the greatest coach to walk the planet. He not the coach that can come in and totally alter a franchise that is down and is filled with young, developing players.If you want proof of that, just look at his track record with the Celtics prior to the 2008 season.It was a team filled with talented, young players such as Kendrick Perkins, Al Jefferson, Gerald Green, Sebastian Telfair, and others like them.But, once he was equipped with a veteran team, the wins for the Celtics began piling up and the Celtics hung championship banner number 17 from the rafters of the TD Bank Garden.Looking back, Rivers was a mere side note on the 2008 squad, as the common belief was that anyone with a basic fundamental understanding of the game of basketball would be able to win with a roster that featured three future Hall of Famers.However, as Boston Big Three aged and injuries caught up to the them, it was Rivers who proved to be arguably Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
the most important piece for Boston as the team looks to grab its second national title in three years.Unlike many coaches in professional sports, Rivers has a firm understanding and appreciation for all 15 of his players, and he not only understands how they all fit into his system, but he also understands how each and every one of them functions.Rivers understood as the Celtics struggled through a dismal second half of the season that, as long as his team was healthy, he could develop a game plan that his starting five would execute, and he knew that his starting five, when healthy could matchup with any team in the league.While the rest of the world doubted, Rivers stayed the course, believing that, at some point, all of the regular season struggles were going to pay off and that the Celtics had what it took to make noise come playoff time.I thought it was the right plan, Rivers said. But it didn look right because we were losing. But guys were resting and conditioning, and I thought that was the only chance we had.Rivers knew what he had, and he knew what needed to be done to extract the best out of his squad.According to Allen, even when the superstar laden Celtics resisted the idea of fewer minutes and reduced roles, all in the name of getting healthy, Rivers insisted that the team would stay the course and would not falter.As players, we kind of fight a little bit, Allen said. We need to do this, we need to do that. Doc would come in to the locker room and say were not changing anything. He stuck to the script the whole time.Even though Boston stars wanted to play and they wanted to experience the immediate success on the court that teams such as the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Orlando Magic were experiencing, Rivers knew that by forgoing playoff positioning and regular season wins for health and fresh legs, his team would be far better equipped to compete come playoff time.In many situations, NBA players would revolt, fight back, and reject their coach if he suggested limited roles, especially of the team was losing like the Celtics were down the stretch.But Doc Rivers is a master motivator, and even when there seems to be nothing left, he knows how to pull every last bit from his players, a talent that only Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
a handful of NBA coaches have.His steady hand, his motivating speeches, and his thorough understanding of the players on his team enabled Rivers to put the Celtics in a situation to achieve something that most NBA fans never thought possible.Following the Celtics Game Six win over Orlando that propelled the Celtics to their 21st NBA Finals appearance, Rivers said that, as a unit, his starting five had never lost a playoff series, and he knew that, when healthy, he had one of, if not the, best team in the league.While he is not the best coach patrolling an NBA sideline, Rivers is one of the best coaches in the league.Had it not been for Rivers, Boston would not be where it is today.Just maybe, as the Celtics prepare to play for their league-leading 18th NBA title, Rivers is the most important piece Boston has.
2010年12月25日星期六
25 Dec 10 Los Angeles Lakers Favored Big Over Los Angeles Clippers Tonight
Doug Pensinger/Getty ImagesThe Los Angeles Lakers will open their seven-game road trip against the Los Angeles Clippers tonight. With both teams playing at the Staples Center, it may look like an away game for the Lakers, but it certainly won't feel like one. The current NBA odds have the Lakers favored by eight points over the Clippers with the over/under sitting at 206.The Lakers have now won two straight since losing four in a row and could be primed to go on another big run. With the return of Andrew Bynum to the lineup, Pau Gasol Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
and Lamar Odom will not have to continue playing long minutes, which will be beneficial as they have looked a little worn out early in the season. Gasol, who is averaging just under 15 points over the last five games, surprisingly looked fresh in the Lakers' win over the Wizards last night, scoring 21 points to go along with 14 rebounds, eight assists, and five blocks.Kobe Bryant went for 32 points on 12-23 shooting last night against the Wizards. It was his best shooting performance since Nov. 17th when he went 11 of 20 against the Suns. However, he was just 1-6 from three-point range and has really struggled from downtown lately, only making two of his last 15 attempts.Tonight will mark the first game for the Lakers against Blake Griffin, who has really been outstanding to start the Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
2010 season. Griffin has been a highlight waiting to happen, averaging 25.6 points and 13.6 rebounds so far. He will face a tough challenge, however, going up against the sizeof the Lakers.The Clippers will be a little light on the depth chart tonight, as center Chris Kaman re-injured his ankle, Brian Cook is serving the second game of his suspension, and Baron Davis is a game-time decision. The Clippers beat the Spurs at home last Wednesday without Kaman and with little help from Cook and Davis, but are going to need a monster game from Griffin and Eric Gordon to take down the Lakers at less than full strength, especially with all the size the Lakers have down low.I think the tempo of this game will decide who wins. I believe the Clippers have to play at a fast pace to win this game. The Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
Lakers are a bit of an older team and don't always handle playing well on back-to-back nights, but if they can slow the game down and avoid getting into a shootout, I think they will easily take home the win.Can't decide who to take against the spread? Check out what our experts have to say in their highly rated NBA picks.
and Lamar Odom will not have to continue playing long minutes, which will be beneficial as they have looked a little worn out early in the season. Gasol, who is averaging just under 15 points over the last five games, surprisingly looked fresh in the Lakers' win over the Wizards last night, scoring 21 points to go along with 14 rebounds, eight assists, and five blocks.Kobe Bryant went for 32 points on 12-23 shooting last night against the Wizards. It was his best shooting performance since Nov. 17th when he went 11 of 20 against the Suns. However, he was just 1-6 from three-point range and has really struggled from downtown lately, only making two of his last 15 attempts.Tonight will mark the first game for the Lakers against Blake Griffin, who has really been outstanding to start the Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
2010 season. Griffin has been a highlight waiting to happen, averaging 25.6 points and 13.6 rebounds so far. He will face a tough challenge, however, going up against the sizeof the Lakers.The Clippers will be a little light on the depth chart tonight, as center Chris Kaman re-injured his ankle, Brian Cook is serving the second game of his suspension, and Baron Davis is a game-time decision. The Clippers beat the Spurs at home last Wednesday without Kaman and with little help from Cook and Davis, but are going to need a monster game from Griffin and Eric Gordon to take down the Lakers at less than full strength, especially with all the size the Lakers have down low.I think the tempo of this game will decide who wins. I believe the Clippers have to play at a fast pace to win this game. The Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
Lakers are a bit of an older team and don't always handle playing well on back-to-back nights, but if they can slow the game down and avoid getting into a shootout, I think they will easily take home the win.Can't decide who to take against the spread? Check out what our experts have to say in their highly rated NBA picks.
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