Showing posts with label lakers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lakers. Show all posts

18.6.10

NBA Finals is over

 Here's a reply to some idiot..Artest MVP game 7

Uh I think you misread the article. Ron had the best game out of all the players tonight...Including Kobe.  The article states that Artest was MVP tonight, not the series.  The Finals MVP is to the player who played the best overall in the series, not just one game.  There is a huge difference between Artest and Kobe. Kobe is a superstar like LBJ and D-Wade.  In order for any team to stop these superstars, they need to have 2-3 people collapsing on them constantly to force turnovers and not allow players to find a shooting rhythm.  Artest is at-best All-star level who cannot individually carry a team consistently (as Seen in Sac).  I think you should re-read what you wrote cause it didn't make a lot of sense.

Anyways, I'm happy to see Ron step up his game tonight after having awful games in Boston.  He is a very nice and courteous guy and I believe his hard work and basketball nature finally paid off.  I hope to see him in Sac this summer eating sushi at his favorite restaurant.  It's nice to see his success even after much of the public shut him out.  As the article says, Artest rose from the ashes tonight.  Give credit to the Celtics.  They put up a lot of fight and showed their toughness.  It's too bad Kendrick Perkins got hurt cause his game could have made a difference in outcome.  Overall it was an awesome even series.  Although I expect the Lakers to be back next year, I am kind of interested to see if D-Wade can get an entourage together to put up a tougher fight.

That was a good game .. Too bad someone had to go home a loser...  As much as I don't care for Kobe, he is extremely talented and skillful.  I thought in the first 3 quarters, the Lakers were going to lose because of Kobe and his forceful self.  But the consistent gameplay of Artest and Gasol helped pull Kobe out to achieve his 2nd Finals MVP.  He deserves to be the MVP in the series.  If the Celts won, it'd be hard to determine whether Rondo or Pierce would have gotten the award.  Both played good 2-3 games, but not an overall 7.  Rondo would've been my choice, but they didn't win. 

I think the Celts shot themselves in the foot in the 4th quarter, fouling the Lakers 12 times.  I also think in game 1 or 2, the Celts, they turned the ball over in the last two minutes on unforced errors.  Tonight, the Celtics had everything they needed to achieve the victory.  They were the underdog on the road, and had already upsetted the two best teams, the Magic and Cavaliers. I thought the Lakers, if they were to lose, would because of not enough support from Odom and Artest.  Fisher, Bryant, and Gasol were consistent and strong.. For the Celtics, it seemed like every game had a new leader, which was cool and fine.  But in a game like this, or any one independent game, a leader/super star is needed.  There wasn't the same go to guy in the 4th, when the Celts needed points.

Bryant almost lost it for the team tonight, especially if Artest didn't have the game like he did.  The first 3 quarters, and half of the 4th, Kobe had many forceful shots that could have been avoided if he just passed the ball.  But instead, he tried to amaze the crowd by fading away and shooting airballs and hitting the back board.  Luckily for him , Artest and Gasol kept the Lakers fighting until the 4th, where Bryant consistently steps up his game.

Congrats to the Black Mamba on his 2nd MVP.  Although I am not a huge fan of Kobe, he is what he is.  A great basketball player to watch regardless of any grudge. I was wrong saying Celtics in 6. If I knew the count was 3-2 Celtics, I would've chose the Lakers in 7 because of home court.  Nothing is greater than home court advantage in the Finals.

14.5.10

NBA Conference Finals 2010

NBA Playoffs 2010 Conference Finals
At least one of my previous predictions was right (Celts in 6). Who would’ve thought the other three teams would’ve won in 4 straight. I’m disappointed with the Spurs, or should I be giving more credit to the Suns? I thought the Spurs had what it took.. But I guess I was wrong.
What team is hotter than the Magic? 8-0 in the playoffs, and on a 14 game-win streak? That’s incredible.

Eastern Conference

2. Orlando Magic vs 4. Boston Celtics
I think Charles Barkley is kickin himself in the foot right now, saying “I should’ve stayed with Orlando to win the Eastern Conference Finals.” It is too late…The Cleveland Cavaliers were knocked out by the Celtics last night. I don’t know if the Celtics are trying to shut their doubters or if they’re really playing like they said they would.. It reminds me of the playoffs 4 years ago, when the Spurs won the championship after being named the 6 seed. Everyone wrote the Spurs and Celtics off, but they’re winning. The only reason I doubted them was because of their play against the Heat (Heat almost won 3 of the 5 games). Anyways, I do not know about this match to be honest. If the Magic want to win, they’ll need to stop Rondo. Something that the Cavs couldn’t do, thus resulted in a loss. If the Celtics want to win, it depends on how far Rondo can lead the team.

What do I expect? Well, both of the teams have Finals appearances in the last two years. The Magic have Dwight Howard, maybe Rondo’s kryptonite. Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis cancel out Ray Allen and Paul Pierce. I think the Celtics will pull it out again, in 6. If not, the Magic will win in 5 or 7.. Home court means a lot to the teams in the playoffs. But then again, the Celtics took two in Cleveland. Celtics do have Rondo .. the differencemaker

Wildcard: RONDO!!!!!

Result: Celtics in 6… Orlando in 5 or 7

Western Conference

1. Los Angeles Lakers Vs 3. Phoenix Suns

All I hear are critics say, “Phoenix max potential is Los Angeles playing at their worst.” Now, I don’t necessarily agree with that, I do believe Los Angeles will take Phoenix out. In the game count, is where I don’t know exactly. Remember, Los Angeles couldn’t hang with the Thunder…So I expect Steve Nash, to have the same impact that Rondo has on the Celtics. If the Lakers want to win, they’ll need to stop Nash. If the Suns want to win, they’ll need to play big and stop Pau and Bynum. Look for Amare to have trouble in the paint..

I believe the Lakers will win. They will win in 5..maybe 6.. The possibility of the Suns beating the Lakers, I would say, is similar to what the Celtics did to the Cavs. They’ll need Kobe to trip as hard and bad as LBJ.

Wildcard : Leandro “the Blur” Barboso

Result: Lakers in 5.

On another note, my rule book needs to get trimmed down.. I think there is a difference between Rules and Common law.. so I'll be looking to change that.. Finals are here, so I don't expect to be doing anything but studying until Tuesday Night.  Woot Woot.

Even though Finals are here, I expect to watch Robin Hood this weekend.  Robin Hood was my favorite movie (with Kevin Costner).  We'll see if it's as good as that one.  I expect it should be, saying Gladiator was such a great movie.

On another note, I got rid of Facebook.  It will be for a good while.  Maybe all of summer, or forever.  Rule number 10: Social networking is not the solution. Haha
Anyways, If you want good mixes, check out www.babyyu.com. This guy is off the hook..

3.5.10

Keys to Playoffs Round 2

Eastern Conference Semi-Finals

1. Cleveland Cavaliers vs 4. Boston Celtics

Well, this should be a dandy match.  And might I add a tough one to conclude.  As much as I am for the Celtics winning this series, I don't think it is going to happen.  If they are able to win in 6, then yes Celtics in 6.  But if it goes to a game 7, I expect Cleveland's home court advantage to take effect.  The Cavs every answer for the Celts and I don't think it is likely that the Celts can win.  The only way for the Celts to win is if the Cavs falter in the post, along with Rondo running circles around Mo Williams.  Paul Pierce will be most likely locked up by LBJ, and KG and Kendrick both struggled against Miami...

WildCard : Cleveland Cavaliers - 3 point shooting, Boston Celtics - Senior citizen's bench

Result: Cleveland in 5 or 7, Celts in 6..(unlikely)
Actual: Celtics in 6 (what do you know.) haha

2. Orlando Magic vs 3 Atlanta Hawks

This match up is in favor of the Orlando Magic.  There is no upset the Hawks can provide since they lack heart.  The only one who shows heart is Al Horford, who will be upset when Dwight Howard dunks on him.  haha  Vince Carter is warming up, and Jameer Nelson's on a roll.  Mike Bibby can't guard anyone, and Marvin Williams and Mo Evans are two guards that will try to contain Vince.  I might add that, Rashard Lewis has been shooting the ball relatively well.  Joe Johnson has been struggling too.  If the Hawks want to win, they'll need to play like Utah.  Hungry and heavy-hearted.  It depends on their stars, Joe Johnson and Al Horford, to carry and lead the team.  But there's also going to be a sufficient amount of supporting cast in Mike Bibby, Marvin Williams, ZaZa Pachulia, and Josh Smith.

Wildcard: Orlando Magic- 3 point shooting Atlanta Hawks- Winning on the road...Josh Smith
Result: Orlando in 5.  They are a great road team unlike Atlanta, and they show more poise and heart.
Actual:Orlando in 4

Western Conference
 1. Los Angeles Lakers vs 5. Utah Jazz

This match up isn't a fair match up because the Jazz have been plagued with injury like Portland and Golden State.  Well, Portland didn't make it, and Golden State didn't even show up.  I don't think the Utah Jazz have enough in them for another upset.   Actually, being a 5th seed isn't really an upset.. but yeah.  The Lakers are still the best overall team in the NBA even though they got ran by OKC.  The Jazz don't have enough speed to do that, and they don't have a superstar shooter named Kevin Durant.  The only way the Jazz will win this game is if Kobe gets locked down, and Pau gets in foul trouble.  Oh and on the opposite side, The Jazz need Matthews, Milsap, and Miles to step up their game.  If the Jazz do this, they'll get a victory, or two. Oh and Ronnie Price needs to run the bench like Shannon Brown does, cause we all know Ronnie can get up almost as high as Shannon.


Wildcard: Los Angeles Lakers: Andrew Bynum Utah Jazz: Carlos Boozer and AK47
Result: LA in 5.
 Actual: LA in 4
3. Phoenix Suns vs 6 San Antonio Spurs

Haha well this match up is in favor of the Spurs.  I don't care about seeding. Whoever thinks the Suns can beat the Spurs, good luck to you.  Steve Nash and Amare are awesome along with J Rich.  But their bench is too inconsistent to play San Antonio and their defense. I think the Suns have a better chance and better team than their previous matchups, but I still think San Antonio will dominate in the paint with Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili.  The Suns are very good this year, but I believe San Antonio is like Boston...They know they can win, they just didn't do it consistently this year.  Well it's  understandable because they were saving themselves for the playoffs! haha  If the Suns want to win, their 3point shooting needs to be off the chains.  If the Spurs want to win, then they'll need penetration from Ginobili and Tony Parker

Wildcard: Phoenix Suns 3 point shooting San Antonio : George Hill and Dejuan Blair
Result: San Antonio in 5, 6, Phoenix in 7
Actual: Phoenix in 4

21.2.10

NBA and School lifee update.

Sorry, No pictures for this post. Just wanted to update this thing since I have 3 posts in the last 2 months.  School is hectic right now, haven't had time to shoot photos.  Instead, I've been working on a resume and cover letter for English 398.  For my gang's class, I have had to research a gang-related article for the local area, read My Bloody Life : The Making of a Latin King, and write an 8 page paper on it.  In my terrorism and counter-terrorism class, I have a 6 page mid-term paper about a terrorist group, and a group project of a similar paper.  For my race class, I have weekly internet exercises and a 3 page paper due.  And lastly, I have an Anthropology paper due on syphilis.  Fun, yes I know. 

I recommend, My Bloody Life : The Making of a Latin King.  I hate reading, but that book got me hooked.  I even got the sequel, My Bloody Life : The unMaking of a Latin King.

As for the NBA trades...disappointed the Heat didn't get Amare.  The Kings finally got rid of Kevin Martin.  Didn't get that much, but hey we got rid of Martin and Rodriguez.  Speaking of Rodriguez, Ashley Rodriguez from Boston, on American Idol, is HOT. And she can sing. Lol.  The Wizards traded away half the team, to get nothing but Josh Howard and Al Thornton.  Good pickups.  The Cavs were dominating without Jamison, and now they'll be awesome. Just be patient cause there's a 3 game losing streak with him.  These things take time.  Look for them to give the Magic, Celtics, and maybe Lakers, a run...

Rockets traded Tmac for Kevin Martin.  That's the upside, I think.  But they lost Carl Landry, a very upgraded Dejuan Blair.  Okay maybe not that big of an upgrade.  If you think about that, the Kings had a chance to get Blair...Yes, instead we got Brockman who?  Brockman upsets offenses at time, but Blair would've been a better pick. And he has no ACL's..Sav! The Celtics kept their big three, gave up Eddie House, and got Nate Robinson. Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley say it's a good upgrade from House, but I don't know about that one... And House proved in the New York loss that he could score (24 points). 

Financially, the Jazz traded Corey Brewer to ? for nothing...Don't know if I'd agree.  The Bobcats got some depth in Tyrus Thomas.. and the Trailblazes got a big man..Hopefully, he doesn't follow Oden and Pryzbilla..

New NBA favorites for this year: Rajon Rondoooo, Dejuan Blair, and Kevin Durant.

What to watch: Charles Barkley and Kenny "the Jet" Smith.  Hilarious.
Song of the week. Chris Brown ft Pleasure P - Can't let you Go

Quote of the week . " I went to the woods because I wish to live deliberately to front only the essential things of life and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not when I came to die, discover that I had not lived."- Henry David Thoreau

And that's the Stat us of the NBA.

5.11.09

Another week

Another week passed by. Might I add that next week, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 comes out (tuesday). Haha, it hit me when my classmates said, "If I'm not in class next Tuesday, I'm probably at home playing Modern Warfare 2 since it comes out next week." Haha. Yeah since I have nothing else to do besides hang out with a blog, I've started playing video games like a geek. haha Oh well, I guess I missed the last 6 years of being a Teenage Geek. For those who don't know, check it out!




On another basketball update... Cp3 is a sick shooter now, shooting high percentages from beyond the Ark. He managed to find some help from Emeka Okafor and David West, but the team as a whole, are still struggling. I swear the Hornets just have washed up Kings lying on their Roster.Okay maybe not washed up, but a trade among them kinda relationship. Look at it, Byron Scott, Peja, Bobby Brown, Ike Idogu, Sean Marks, Darius Songaila...just this year. And then Desmond Mason, Bobby Jackson and Bonzi Wells in previous years. Seems to me that, someone is following someone. I think it's more Hornets following Sac...which shouldn't happen because SAC is so weak sauce...They have been the last 5 years, and now look at New Orleans..Struggling to even be a playoff Team. I always thought the Hornets had the better lineups, just couldn't stay healthy. Sometimes I think their chemistry is off too. Mo Pete, James Posey, and Peja, are dead shooters. They traded for a healthier Emeka, yet wasted Rasual Butler...Doesn't make much sense to me. But hell, neither does Geoff Petrie.

I guess I'm just extending the talk about the Kings from the Sacbee Article/Comment Forum found here. People on that are ridiculous, stating the Newspaper Article Comments part is a "Fans Forum."  Some people are just beyond imaginable.  It's good to be a true fan, but it's also good to know when it's time to jump ship.  I'm not saying give-up on the Kings, but stop wasting your money on em.  They're ranked 10th in Attendance Prices for Home games at 60 bucks average. The Nba itself average ticket price is 50... Among the top 10, the Kings are the only ones with the losing record.  Lakers, Knicks, Boston, Chicago, and Mavericks are understandable for being there.  They're good and in large Cities.  Joe and Gavin Maloof are freakin rippin people. Thank God my dad stopped buying his season tickets this season.

Blame the management.  Geoff Petrie was a success when he brought over the Fab Five and plus some.  But since then he's done horrible.  Donte Green, Spencer Hawes, Kenny Thomas, Sean May, Desmond Mason, Ide Udoka, Andre(DUI) Nocioni all horrible pick ups on contracts.  Who'd we lose for them or let go for no good reason and we should've kept? Chris Webber, Mike Bibby, Ron Artest (Some might say Peja), Brad Miller, Eddie House, Bonzi Wells, Justin Williams, Ronnie Price, Dahntay Jones,  Rick Adelman, and John Salmons were among the ones lost for no reason.  The ones we didn't even need, yet we paid them- Bobby Brown, Quincy Douby, Vitaly Potapenko, Mo Taylor, Jason Hart, Mikki Moore, Beno Udrih. Jesus, ever since that C-webb Trade, that's probably all the players we went through, and most we haven't kept.  Anyways, Kings Fans are biased on that paper, and it's quite irritating.

Kevin Martin is a good scorer because he's efficient.  But that doesn't mean anything if you don't dish the ball, get assists, or even a block once in a while.  He's 6'7 so blocks aren't too hard, saying D Wade and Delonte West average almost a block a game under 6'4.  Monta Ellis passes the ball more than Kevin Martin.  Amazingly, he chased 11 rebounds down yesterday.  Yet the Kings couldn't hold on to a 4th quarter lead.  Kevin Martin will never be a Superstar, maybe an All star.  He'll be no better than Peja Stojakavic, and has a little more way to go to catch Mitch Richmond.  Oh and btw, These forum King Fans said that Kevin Martin is favorable than Ray Allen, Tmac, Reggie Miller, and Brandon Roy.  Haha.  Oh and I almost forgot, "Kevin Martin is just like Kobe, without a team, and without D."  Dude, I'm not even a Kobe fan, but Kobe is one of the most complete, clutchest, closer, Basketball Superstar Player since MJ.  LBJ and Dwyane follow, but to say Kevin Martin is just as good, without D and a team? Those people are trippin.  I'd take Steph Curry over Kevin Martin, hell I'd take him over Kevin and Tyreke.

As for Noc's DUI, he was probably drinkin his piss-poor life/trade from last year.  Hell it must've been a lot better being a Bull than a King.  Oh well.  Good to see Mike Bibby come back and hit some important shots down the stretch.  Kings fans think he's comin back when we become a Post Season team again, like Bobby did.  Haha. Sometimes I wonder if they're playing fantasy ball or 2k10 and think their teams really are gonna shape.  Reality is, Kings are either moving, or they'll suck for the next 3-4 years, unless they land some big name this coming off-season.

D-Wade beasted last night against the Wiz's on National Tv.  Cp3 beasted against  the Mavs too, on National Tv.  Way to go boys, Way to go.  Q rich might look like a fantasy pick up...and haha where on earth is Michael Beas(t)ley? He's got issues dude. Anyways. That's it for now.

5.7.09

Ah The Nba Offseason

So the Lakers won the championship... Big surprise there. Kobe was MVP for the first time... Another big surprise.. Sike.

Anyways, it's been a while since I've updated this blog. The Kings drafted Tyreke Evans...that's the surprise, saying they wanted Ricky Rubio, and could've snagged him at number 4. But instead, they went with the 19 year old Evans. It'll be interesting to see what happens this offseason.  In my humble opinion, I think we should've selected Stephen Curry.  He has the purest shooting stroke I ever seen, better than Ray Allen, father Dell Curry, and Michael Jordan.  I was shouting at the TV telling the Kings to select Curry but to no avail.  I truly believe that Steph is the best player coming out of the draft because of his true potential at point guard, even though he is labeled a shooting guard.  I will tell you that I never ever in my 20+ years, watched college ball, until I watched Steph last year.  What he did in the March tournament is unheard of, and from then until now, I kept watching him through college.  As many of the announcers talk about his shooting ability, I watched him transform his sophomore to junior year becoming more of a facilitator of the rock.  He doubled his assist totals from 2 a game to 5.  My guess is he was trying to prove to NBA scouts that he is more of a ball handler than a shooter.   The best part of Steph has always been his shot, but add that with his ball handling and passing, and he is a deadly weapon.  What makes Steph so great is his shot ability in traffic and off the dribble.  Ray ray and all the other 3 point shooters are catch and shoot 3 point makers, Steph creates his own shot at any time.  His offensive mind allows him to know when to pass and when to shoot. I remember him recognizing the double and triple teams and understanding the defense throughout the season, to have the mindset to pass the ball.  He is a complete team player that understands the game beyond his age.

It would've been great to see Steph Curry facilitate the offense instead of this Tyreke Evans guy. Tyreke Evans was a safe pick, but I don't know about it was safe.  Sure, he's tall and lengthy, can handle the rock... But he his form of a shot, is horrific. What is scarier is Evans seems more of a shoot first, dish second.  Curry would've been a better fit as he is an analyzer to pass, and if need be shoot.  He also scores in bunches, think heat check.  At least if the Kings drafted Rubio on the other hand, there would be a true point guard who facilitates just as Jason Williams did with his flashiness.  But Rubio can't shoot either!  I guess the upside is that Tyreke and Rubio are young guns who have longer lifespans than Curry's age.  The way I see it is both Tyreke and Rubio don't know how to shoot and even if they did learn how to shoot, it will never be as pretty as Steph's. So I suppose in short run, Kings will be better with Evans. Long run however, Steph is the better choice.  His upside is really the sky.  The Kings flat out suck. This rookie won't bring em back to the playoffs this season. Not with this roster. C'mon, we have Evans, Martin, Garcia, Thompson, Hawes, Thomas, Jackson, Diogue, and whoever else. Seriously, no all stars.

Dwyane Wade should sign the extension Pat Riley is offering. Riley should also trade for Chris Bosh. I don't know how to, but they should do it. Maybe offer Jermaine O'neal and James Jones. That way the Heat would have a core of, Chalmers, Wade, Bosh, and Beasley. Either way, no teams are going to hang with the Lakers, Celtics, Cavs, or Magic. Can you believe the Magic have Rashard Lewis, Jameer Nelson, Vince Carter, Dwight Howard, and maybe Hedo. I don't think Hedo will sign with the Magic after trading for VC. The Lakers just copped Ron Artest, which makes em better. I know Ron might be a plague for teams, but I'm sure Kobe will keep him in check. Ron's defense is superb! The Celtics and Magic are both trying to cop Rasheed Wallace. Man, whatever team he goes to will be stronger. And the Cavs already got Shaq Diesel, another big upgrade. So now it's really going to be Shaq and Lebron Vs Kobe and Pau. Lakers are still stronger with more experienced, clutch players like Ron Ron , Derek Fisher, and Andrew Bynum. Only way Cavs can win is if Shaq stays healthy and does what his new job entitles, security. "Protect and serve the King." Haha.

The Hornets better do something this offseason in they want to improve. Trailblazers are looking better if they sign Hedo. Spurs are back in the contest with Richard Jefferson, and potent scorer. Denver might want to do some addition at the Shooting guard spot and Power Forward. It'd be awesome if they signed Sheed to the Nuggets... Reunite Big shot and Sheed.

Other then that, every other team that makes a move will probably be small and quiet. The free agency isn't very good at all with Villanueva being the top pick. Whatever team lands em will be a small addition...If he lands a good team then it'll make a difference. But other then that, everyone else will be small.

Okay I'm done for today.

1.6.09

the NBA Finals

So Lebron's out, but Kobe's in. Wasn't it supposed to be, Kobe vs Lebron? Well, If the Nba is conspiracy, it failed miserable. But maybe, just maybe, David Stern and Co. didn't want the Finals to be so hyped. Yeah, it may or may not be conspiracy, but if you think about it, it's reverse psychology. We all wanted, well most of us wanted Kobe vs Lebron. Shoot, there were commercials for the darn rivalry. But maybe Stern didn't want the proficy to be correct. So instead, we give them the Magic. We didn't want a repeat of last year with LA and the Celtics. So who was next in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Orlando? or Atlanta. Atlanta seemed weak, so obviously they're gonna go wtih the Magic. I know it's just a theory, right or wrong, I really don't mind. I'm just starting to think, maybe the rumors are true.

Regardless of the NBA being rigged, the Finals will be here. In my opinion, I believe the Lakers will be victorious, just because David Stern has Kobe's back. And I say it will be in 6 or 7 games for business purposes. As much as I hate Kobe and the Lakers, they will prevail against Dwight Howard and Co. The Lakers and Magic match up well against each other too, better than the Cavs. But I say Kobe has the better roster and coach. And we saw it in the series prior, one man teams don't make it. Dwight Howard may be Superman, but will his teammates be as effective as Kobe and the Lakers? Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, and Andrew Bynum will be key in this series on if they win or not. Hedo Turkoglu and Rashard Lewis are good, but will they be the right spots during the Finals.? LA has the experience so it will be interesting to see how Orlando responds. However, Orlando is a good enough team to put up an upset, and I would choose them if I didn't think the league was rigged. But I just don't see Orlando stopping Kobe. And even though I dislike him highly, He's the best closer in the game. Yes, even D Wade. Dwight Howard will have a tough time against Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum, and Lamar Odom. He'll probably foul out 3 out of the 6 games. In the end, I see LA winning a championship, satisfying Kobe, and leaving LA fans happy. It's funny how Kobe wanted out the same year they got to the Finals. hmmm. Anyways, Lakers in 6.. or possibly 7.

24.5.09

The Conference Finals

Well, series were tied 1-1 on both the East and West sides.  Last night, the Lakers beat the Nuggets to go up 2-1.  

It's kind of heart breaking after watching over and over, Lebron tie up the series with the 3 point dagger at the end of game 1.  I think that shot alone will change the entire series.  The Orlando Magic would've had a 2 game lead in the best of 4 match up.  Half way there, with home court advantage, all taken away in that last 1 second shot.  AMAZING.   I don't really mind LbJ so for him to hit his first playoff game winner was pretty impressive.  

On the other side, the Lakers beat out the Nuggets.  It's still impressive that all of the Conference Finals games have been pretty darn close.  It's pitiful to see the Lakers and Kobe beat out the Nuggets, especially after watching the Birdman terrorize the Lakers defense.  Anyways, this one like Game 1, got away from the Nuggets.  And now they're on the brinks of falling behind 3-1 if they can't stop Kobe .  

11.5.09

Nba Suspensions


NBA Playoff Suspensions
There's been a problem that often arises during the spring time in the NBA.  Playoff Suspensions.  Should they, or should they not be in affect during playoff games.  
Standing from one side, we can see that it is really unfair to the team serving a suspension.   It is often what decides the winner of the game, usually rewarding the non affecting group.  On the opposite side, it is the league rule that players will serve the suspension the following game.  So what should the league do now?
I say the league excludes the suspensions from playoff basketball because it is such a big factor in deciding who wins and loses games.  Even if it's not a star player being suspended, it still affects the rotation of the bench, and outcome of the game.  It doesn't necessarily and always affect the penalized group, as we've seen the Magic win without Dwight Howard in Game 6 Vs the Sixers.  Over a number of years, we've seen Amare Stoudemire and Boris Diaw sit out a decisive game 6 vs the San Antonio Spurs.  But on the contrary, that would also mean Robert Horry would be able to play the next game, even after smashing Steve Nash into the scorer's table in game 5.  
A big part of the suspensions in NBA playoffs are caused not from altercations among players, or benches stepping foot on the floor during an altercation.  As we've seen this year, the Flagrant one and Flagrant two fouls are a big reason for suspensions, or at least a re-evaluation by the league's Stu Jackson.  This year alone, there's been incidents involving Kendrick Perkins, Ron Artest, Rajon Rondo, Dwyane Wade, and 4-5 more.  Not everyone who's received a flagrant one or two has received a suspension, but most have been thrown out of the game.  And although being ejected is somewhat reasonable, I believe it is unnecessary to keep them from returning for the next game.  Of course, there comes exceptions within the league, and the league should be able to override the ruling.  I also think the ref's should take another look at the calls they make in regarding to flagrant one and flagrant two calls.  In particular, they shouldn't be changing flagrant ones to flagrant two's because of the hype or intensity of the game.  Instead, it should be called fairly enough where it can be visibly seen whether the accused players are actually going for the ball or intentionally going to hurt someone.  
Overall, the suspensions should be served during the upcoming season.  If the players are to be retiring that year, they should pay a fine.  What shouldn't happen are players to be sat out during the most crucial games of the year and even their career.  They should be able to help their team as much as they can, and not be giving the series a handicap.  There will always be exceptions that the front officials can overrule, but I disagree that suspensions should take place during the playoffs.  It will most likely give opposing teams handicaps and seeding.  
On other notes, it seems like the playoffs are getting very intense.  Boston and the Magic are tied, with the game winning shot coming from Big Baby Davis.  That shot was AMAZING might I add, kind of like the old Vlade Divac in the SAcramento Days where we all yell, "NO!" and after it goes in, "YEAH!!!." Haha that was a very good game from start to finish.  Might I add, the TRuth is simply the TRUTH.  
Rockets and Lakers are tied despite losing YAO Ming! WHAT!? First Tmac, then Dikembe, now Yao.. and they're tied ?  What the.? Ron Ron baby.  The Rockets are showing depth, and they are showing poise.  Or is it just luck on an off night of Kobe?  We'll see in game 5 in LA.  I'd love to see the Rockets win, but the chances of that happening and proceeding to the Western Conference Finals is highly unlikely.
Unlike my man, Big Shot Chauncey Billups, the Nuggets are looking like a team without fear.  They are simply the best Western Conference Team right now, and it's all because of the general.  No, not the Admiral, the General.  There's one of the best, interesting, factual article on Espn that's made me a huge Chauncey Fan.  He was always go to man on the court, but now he's the go to man off the court.  READ THIS  

And the other 3-0 team on the Eastern side, the Cavs vs the HAwks.  Sorry to say, the man child is simply beasting everybody that steps in their way.  Oh man, it's almost unfair.  haha

6.5.09

Round 2 playoffs


Done Series


Man have the NBA Playoffs sure heated up.  So my predictions are obviously not as correct as they could've been.  Cleveland went undefeated against the Pistons, ending the 6 year Conference Finals Appearances for them.  San Antonio lost to Dallas in 5, but I suppose it was predictable knowing that Manu wasn't going to be participating in the playoffs.  Yeah, I didn't know that, or else I think i would've picked Dallas.  San Antonio isn't really any offensive threat besides Tony Parker and Tim Duncan.  Tony Parker had 31 in one half though, which was kinda tite.  Too bad they still lost.  Kobe Bryant and the Lakers proceeded, who would've doubted..They got my predictions right. haha New Orleans has failed me, making my second wrong pick... I guess I underrated the Birdman, Big Shot Billups, JR Smith, and Carmelo.  I think the huge X factors for them is the Birdman and JR.  Stop them, and I think you have a good shot in winning the series.   


Denver Vs Dallas.  That's an interesting match up, but I don't think Dallas will do very good against the heavily stacked and experienced Nuggets.  Besides playing in Mile High Denver, the Nuggets have a better chemistry than the Mavs.  Chauncey Billups seems to be the factor in this game, as he and Jason Kidd go at it for the 100th time.  Both are extremely gifted and well experienced point guards that have different games.  If put together, I'd say they'd be the ultimate point guard.  Clutch shooter, great passer with a basketball IQ of 1000.  This series will be a good one, but I think Denver in possibly 6.  Sorry, I've never supported Dirk Nowitzki or Mark Cuban..



Man can you believe the Rockets finally made it out of the first round? The funny thing is that it's a "TMAC" to be stuck in the first round.. Ironic thing is that Tmac got out of the first round, and he didn't even play.  Hmmm that says something about TMAc or it's just the luck of the straw.  Anyways, the series is over and I'm sure Portland will be fighting next year.  They're probably really disappointed in themselves saying they had home court advantage at the number 4 seed.  I can't believe Ron Artest said Brandon Roy is the hardest guy to guard in the NBA, even including Lebron, Dwyane, and Kobe.  Kinda funny, but then again, Ron Ron is always saying something stupid.  Anyways, now it's the Rockets Vs the Lakers.  

So since Ron Ron's quote about Brandon Roy, it seems to be an "easier" match up for Artest.  Maybe it's cause Brandon Roy is young and more athletic, running a lot more than Kobe.  But either way, he's gonna have to guard Kobe now.  We'll be sure to listen for new quotes from Ron Ron about how unguardable Kobe is. I think it's because Ron Ron underestimated the quickness and overall game of Brandon Roy.  I know we all have.  Especially since Ron Ron has played Kobe way more times than Roy.  Anyways, this match up will be a great one, but I see the Rockets falling short because the lack of firepower they have.  Like 2k9, I see the match up of the Lakers vs anyone is almost unfair. Their bench is so deep, it reminds me of the Kings in 2004.  Yeah that bench was super deep.  Remember when we had, Hedo, Bobby J, Gerald Wallace, Keon Clark, Anthony Peeler, Jimmy Jackson, and I dunno.  Basically our bench could've been the starting line up.  This year, Shannon Brown has stepped up.  Vujachic is a pure shooter when he's hot.  Powell has strength in rebounding, Farmar is an extremely quick point guard.  And Lamar Odom or Andrew Bynum off the bench.  Man that's deep.  I say Lakers in 6 especially since Yao Ming will have a handful with three different type of bigs.  Maybe if they had TMAC it'd be a great matchup, but then again, maybe the Rockets are better without em.  


Boston and the Magic.. Well I guess the best playoff series in history was in the first round, so it's hard to say if it'll get any better in this series.  Of course the Magic are a 3 point shooting team that relies on mostly perimeter shots.  Like all season, if the shots ain't fallin, they ain't winnin.  The Celtics on the other hand, might be too tired to compete with such a run and gun offense.  I know that they're struggling a little bit too on the offensive side with little help outside Paul "the Truth" Pierce, and Ray Allen.  Eddie House needs to step up, alongside of Mikki Moore and Stephon Marbury.  Big Baby Davis and Kendrick Perkins are also a great one two punch to contain Dwight Howard, but foul trouble will be an issue.  Courtney Lee will be a factor if he comes back from his sinus injury caused by Dwight Howard in the Philly Matchup.  Another key factor is if Dwight stops throwin Bow's against the opponents and teammates.  I know everyone wants him to play like Shaq, but that one elbow against Samuel Dalembert was just wrong.  Anyways, this will be a good match up, but I see the Celtics on top in possibly 6 or 7.  Funny, all the second round series are six or seven games.  Except.....


The Hawks and Cavs.  Hmm I'm disappointed that my rookies on the Heat couldn't help Dwade and Udonis in game 7.  So with the Hawks playing the Cavs, I see this ending in a hurry.  Maybe the home crowd will give the Hawks a boost, but then again, the Cavs home crowd gives the Cavs a 2-0 start.  I think the Cavs are very deep and have exceptionally well chemistry.  The Hawks don't have home court advantage so if they don't win in Cleveland, game over.  I don't even see it getting that far though, saying the Cavs have the MVP Lebron James.  Yeah, unfortunately Lebron will take the MVP this year instead of Dwade, but props to him cause he had a great year as well.  Lebron is everything to the Cavs like DWADE so it's gonna be tough for the Hawks to stop him.  Josh Smith is the only one on the Hawks that can stop LBJ because he has the athleticism and body to keep up with Lebron.  But even if he stops Lebron from scoring, Lebron is such a quick big man and passer that it'll be hard to stop his penetration and dish.  Also Lebron is so smart that he knows where the open man is at all times when he's doubled.  Josh Smith couldn't even guard Dwade, so I can't possibly see Josh Smith stopping LBJ for four games let alone one.  Anyways, I say Cavs in 4.. or 5.  Either way, Hawks have no chance... Kinda like how the Rockets have no chance against Kobe. .