Obviously, I've mentioned before that I'm not a fan of David Kahn. On top of Kevin McHale burying the franchise with the Joe Smith contract debacle, Kahn has basically put the team in even more of a rewind then initially anticipated. He didn't have much to work with when he first got there but the team is awful and even with the talent they have right now, they won't become Oklahoma City because they don't have a "star" that can carry the team like Durant can. Yes, Kevin Love is very good but he isn't a franchise guy. He is the second or third option on a good team.
Here is an interview to show how much of a clown Kahn is.
I think he is trying, which is great for a three year old but not for a NBA executive who is trying to dig a terrible franchise out of the depths of the cellar they seem to always find themselves in. I certainly lay a lot of the blame on Glen Taylor, the Twolves owner. Any idiot can see that the picks and the trades that he has made over time have done nothing but keep the team in the deep end with no chance of saving themselves.
Here is quote from Kahn from an interview a few years back, when he was the Pacers' GM.
Bizball: During your time as GM of the Pacers, who was the best player you felt you acquired, either through trades, or the draft?
Kahn: I was most proud of draft-night deals I engineered for Jeff Foster and Jamaal Tinsley, two players who remain with the team today not because they were our best players but because of the pressure surrounding both deals.
I honestly had no idea he was the Pacers' GM. I thought he worked his way up in Portland but I was wrong. During his time with Pacers I don't think he had anything to do with personnel decisions because Larry Legend and Donnie Walsh did all that stuff. If you look at this (have to scroll down a little) it tells you how he was into marketing and development more than player decisions. Why and how the Twolves would hire someone like this, I have no idea.
One last note before I go. If you look at the Twolves' roster, I don't see Ricky Rubio but there is Derrick Williams, Brad Miller, and Bojan Bogdanovic. It seemed to me that Ricky was all the rage around the Twin Cities and he supposedly "signed" with the team. Why isn't he on the roster then? Another year in Europe? I smell trouble.
Update: To put things into even better terms with Kahn. He recently reached out to Coach K from Dook to find out if he would be interested in coaching the Twolves. Are you kidding me? He turned down the Lakers and Kobe Bryant to stay at Dook. He makes roughly $5 million a year from Dook. Regardless of the talent that is in Minnesota he would be extremely lucky to reach 30 wins in his first year. The saga continues...
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Rest of the 1st Round - NBA Draft
#15 - Pacers pick Kawhi Leonard from San Diego State. Good to see the Pacers try to get more athletic. Sick of seeing them draft white guy after white guy. They selected Paul George last year and now Leonard. I really like him. He's tough as nails and he doesn't stop. I would like to see him stick to his game and be a glue guy early in his career. I like his suit, he went a little different than everyone else. Nothing wrong with a little flair.
#16 - Sixers pick Nikola Vucevic from USC. I really like his game. I was really surprised that he didn't get more love from the commentators throughout the season. He plays tough and doesn't have the prototypical Euro game, he'll bang a little bit for sure. Gotta love guys coming from the crowd to greet David Stern. Anyone remember Priest Lauderdale?
#17 - Knicks pick Iman Shumpert from Georgia Tech. I actually like his game and he was given a ton of flak for being a workout warrior. Somewhat like a Joe Alexander in that sense. He'll be alright for them. He's definitely a combo guy and went to GT because he was told he could play the point. At least now the Knicks will have one person that can defend. Hopefully, Isiah Thomas didn't make that pick.
#18 - Wizards pick Chris Singleton from Florida State. Another long and athletic player that will be NBA ready on the defensive end. He'll want to play the 3 but he can guard 1-4 right now. He is a pretty good stand still shooter but is not good coming off screens or off the dribble. Like the look minus the pocketsquare. Where is the yellow in your tie?
#19 - Bobcats pick Tobias Harris from Tennessee for the Bucks. Another crowd entrance for the local product. He won't wow you with anything but is flat out steady with everything. He's a good pick for the Bucks but I'm not sure if he'll be able to consistently cover 3's in the NBA. Played a little point forward in AAU and high school and that's what Bruce Pearl told him he would do for the Volunteers. I didn't see it much but he certainly won't take the ball out of hands of Brandon Jennings.
Spurs trade George Hill to Pacers for Kawhi Leonard. Great trade for the Spurs. Look for them to move Richard Jefferson as well. Not exactly sure why the Pacers would want Hill with Darren Collison manning the point for them. Hill is a local product but it doesn't make sense for them in my mind.
#20 - Twolves pick Donatas Motiejunas from Lithuania. I don't have a clue who he is right on par with David Kahn. On another note, A League of Their Own is on, at least time between picks isn't 15 minutes anymore. That is how excited I am to watch this guy play.
#21 - Trail Blazers pick Nolan Smith from Dook. I do like this pick. I thought he was really undervalued this season even after Kyrie came back. He was right in the mix for National Player of the Year but didn't get the fanfare because there is nothing fancy about his game. He won't wow you but he's good. Not sure what this means for Andre Miller.
#22 - Nuggets select someone with a ton of tattoos or Kenneth Faried from Morehead State. He's a beast. He'll be able to rebound like crazy and flat out won't back down from anyone. He knows his role and won't try to change that. Look for him to find a jumper as time goes on and become a Charles Oakley type player.
#23 - Rockets select Nikola Mirotic from Serbia. His name sounds awesome and that's all I know about him. He won't be in the NBA for at least four years.
Trade with Twolves and Rockets with Johnny Flynn and the rights to Donatas Motiejunas to Rockets for Brad Miller, the rights to Nikola Mirotic, and a first rounder. Now Rubio starts and they get a "true" center in Brad Miller. But how does this all work out for K-Love? Too many guys at the same position. Someone will be unhappy and the new coach will have his hands full. Adding that first rounder for the Twolves will definitely help because it'll probably be lottery. It gives the Rockets another small point with Kyle Lowry already there. Who knows?
#24 - Thunder pick Reggie Jackson from Boston College. He basically carried BC to a reasonable first season for new coach Steve Donahue. He didn't want to stick around for the rebuilding project with a ton of young guys. Not sure where he plays, has to be a point. That means OKC will get rid of Eric Maynor and I don't think that's a good idea.
#25 - Celtics pick Marshon Brooks from Providence. He can flat out put the ball in the basket. He played on a crappy team but he has that knack to score. Opposing teams knew he was their only option and he still scored. Bilas just said he doesn't guard but he'll learn and he has the tools to be able to defend especially with his length.
#26 - Mavs pick Jordan Hamilton from Texas. There was talk about him being a top 15 guy. He is clearly a small forward not shooting guard. He's big and strong but his biggest issue is his consistency. He sometimes has a bad 'tude dude. Good bang for the buck at this point in the draft. I like this pick especially after Caron Butler's injury.
Celtics trade Marshon Brooks to Nets for Jajuan Johnson (who technically hasn't been picked yet) and a future 2nd rounder. I like this trade for the Celtics, they are getting too old up front and Johnson brings a whole lot of length and pretty good shooting touch. Good spot for Brooks in Jersey. They only have Anthony Morrow at the 2 guard, it gives him a chance for some early PT.
#27 - Nets pick Jajuan Johnson from Purdue. It would be way cooler if he was "the defensive end for the Purdue." Like I said above, he brings length and some defensive presence.
Twolves get 28th and 43rd pick from the Bulls for the rights to Nikola Mirotic. David Kahn is an idiot. How draft picks do you need when you need veterans?
#28 - Bulls pick Norris Cole from Cleveland State. Another point guard for the Twolves. He's got one of the coolest haircuts in the NCAA. Too bad K-Love will steal all of his rebounds away if he gets a chance. He had a game like this, not bad for being 6'2".
#29 - Spurs pick Corey Joseph from Texas. I don't like this pick at all. I don't think he is ready but the Spurs must think he'll be the second coming of George Hill. The Spurs have kind of become the Patriots when it comes to drafting people. They might initially question the pick but no one will question Bill Belichick, same thing goes for R.C. Buford. He's not ready though.
Have to love David Stern. Comes out with a poop eating grin on his face when he walks out and even thanks the crowd for booing him. Classic.
#30 - Bulls pick Jimmy Butler from Marquette. Great story as told on ESPN. I think he is a solid pick at this point, he's obviously a really tough kid and you have to be to play for Buzz Williams. He'll be a great glue guy and will bust his rear-end all the time. He'll be similar to Taj Gibson at the wing spot.
Miami gets Norris Cole and Twolves get 31st pick, future 2nd round pick, and cash considerations. Are you serious Kahn? I might drive over to Minneapolis and give him a flying elbow a la Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka. Just keep getting younger for no reason.
That's it for blogging for today. Steals of the 2nd round will be Tyler Honeycutt and Shelvin Mack. Both left early and both can defend at a high level right now. Honeycutt is long and with anyone that plays for Ben Howland he'll know how to defend immediately. Mack has proven himself on the big stage and more than held his own last summer vs. NBA guys when he played for the College Select Team vs. Team USA in preparation for the World Championships.
As I said before here are a couple of guys that I questioned about coming out and sure as poop they didn't get picked in the first round. Here is my post. Cory Joseph is the only guys on that list that was a 1st rounder that I don't think he was worthy of.
#16 - Sixers pick Nikola Vucevic from USC. I really like his game. I was really surprised that he didn't get more love from the commentators throughout the season. He plays tough and doesn't have the prototypical Euro game, he'll bang a little bit for sure. Gotta love guys coming from the crowd to greet David Stern. Anyone remember Priest Lauderdale?
#17 - Knicks pick Iman Shumpert from Georgia Tech. I actually like his game and he was given a ton of flak for being a workout warrior. Somewhat like a Joe Alexander in that sense. He'll be alright for them. He's definitely a combo guy and went to GT because he was told he could play the point. At least now the Knicks will have one person that can defend. Hopefully, Isiah Thomas didn't make that pick.
#18 - Wizards pick Chris Singleton from Florida State. Another long and athletic player that will be NBA ready on the defensive end. He'll want to play the 3 but he can guard 1-4 right now. He is a pretty good stand still shooter but is not good coming off screens or off the dribble. Like the look minus the pocketsquare. Where is the yellow in your tie?
#19 - Bobcats pick Tobias Harris from Tennessee for the Bucks. Another crowd entrance for the local product. He won't wow you with anything but is flat out steady with everything. He's a good pick for the Bucks but I'm not sure if he'll be able to consistently cover 3's in the NBA. Played a little point forward in AAU and high school and that's what Bruce Pearl told him he would do for the Volunteers. I didn't see it much but he certainly won't take the ball out of hands of Brandon Jennings.
Spurs trade George Hill to Pacers for Kawhi Leonard. Great trade for the Spurs. Look for them to move Richard Jefferson as well. Not exactly sure why the Pacers would want Hill with Darren Collison manning the point for them. Hill is a local product but it doesn't make sense for them in my mind.
#20 - Twolves pick Donatas Motiejunas from Lithuania. I don't have a clue who he is right on par with David Kahn. On another note, A League of Their Own is on, at least time between picks isn't 15 minutes anymore. That is how excited I am to watch this guy play.
#21 - Trail Blazers pick Nolan Smith from Dook. I do like this pick. I thought he was really undervalued this season even after Kyrie came back. He was right in the mix for National Player of the Year but didn't get the fanfare because there is nothing fancy about his game. He won't wow you but he's good. Not sure what this means for Andre Miller.
#22 - Nuggets select someone with a ton of tattoos or Kenneth Faried from Morehead State. He's a beast. He'll be able to rebound like crazy and flat out won't back down from anyone. He knows his role and won't try to change that. Look for him to find a jumper as time goes on and become a Charles Oakley type player.
#23 - Rockets select Nikola Mirotic from Serbia. His name sounds awesome and that's all I know about him. He won't be in the NBA for at least four years.
Trade with Twolves and Rockets with Johnny Flynn and the rights to Donatas Motiejunas to Rockets for Brad Miller, the rights to Nikola Mirotic, and a first rounder. Now Rubio starts and they get a "true" center in Brad Miller. But how does this all work out for K-Love? Too many guys at the same position. Someone will be unhappy and the new coach will have his hands full. Adding that first rounder for the Twolves will definitely help because it'll probably be lottery. It gives the Rockets another small point with Kyle Lowry already there. Who knows?
#24 - Thunder pick Reggie Jackson from Boston College. He basically carried BC to a reasonable first season for new coach Steve Donahue. He didn't want to stick around for the rebuilding project with a ton of young guys. Not sure where he plays, has to be a point. That means OKC will get rid of Eric Maynor and I don't think that's a good idea.
#25 - Celtics pick Marshon Brooks from Providence. He can flat out put the ball in the basket. He played on a crappy team but he has that knack to score. Opposing teams knew he was their only option and he still scored. Bilas just said he doesn't guard but he'll learn and he has the tools to be able to defend especially with his length.
#26 - Mavs pick Jordan Hamilton from Texas. There was talk about him being a top 15 guy. He is clearly a small forward not shooting guard. He's big and strong but his biggest issue is his consistency. He sometimes has a bad 'tude dude. Good bang for the buck at this point in the draft. I like this pick especially after Caron Butler's injury.
Celtics trade Marshon Brooks to Nets for Jajuan Johnson (who technically hasn't been picked yet) and a future 2nd rounder. I like this trade for the Celtics, they are getting too old up front and Johnson brings a whole lot of length and pretty good shooting touch. Good spot for Brooks in Jersey. They only have Anthony Morrow at the 2 guard, it gives him a chance for some early PT.
#27 - Nets pick Jajuan Johnson from Purdue. It would be way cooler if he was "the defensive end for the Purdue." Like I said above, he brings length and some defensive presence.
Twolves get 28th and 43rd pick from the Bulls for the rights to Nikola Mirotic. David Kahn is an idiot. How draft picks do you need when you need veterans?
#28 - Bulls pick Norris Cole from Cleveland State. Another point guard for the Twolves. He's got one of the coolest haircuts in the NCAA. Too bad K-Love will steal all of his rebounds away if he gets a chance. He had a game like this, not bad for being 6'2".
#29 - Spurs pick Corey Joseph from Texas. I don't like this pick at all. I don't think he is ready but the Spurs must think he'll be the second coming of George Hill. The Spurs have kind of become the Patriots when it comes to drafting people. They might initially question the pick but no one will question Bill Belichick, same thing goes for R.C. Buford. He's not ready though.
Have to love David Stern. Comes out with a poop eating grin on his face when he walks out and even thanks the crowd for booing him. Classic.
#30 - Bulls pick Jimmy Butler from Marquette. Great story as told on ESPN. I think he is a solid pick at this point, he's obviously a really tough kid and you have to be to play for Buzz Williams. He'll be a great glue guy and will bust his rear-end all the time. He'll be similar to Taj Gibson at the wing spot.
Miami gets Norris Cole and Twolves get 31st pick, future 2nd round pick, and cash considerations. Are you serious Kahn? I might drive over to Minneapolis and give him a flying elbow a la Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka. Just keep getting younger for no reason.
That's it for blogging for today. Steals of the 2nd round will be Tyler Honeycutt and Shelvin Mack. Both left early and both can defend at a high level right now. Honeycutt is long and with anyone that plays for Ben Howland he'll know how to defend immediately. Mack has proven himself on the big stage and more than held his own last summer vs. NBA guys when he played for the College Select Team vs. Team USA in preparation for the World Championships.
As I said before here are a couple of guys that I questioned about coming out and sure as poop they didn't get picked in the first round. Here is my post. Cory Joseph is the only guys on that list that was a 1st rounder that I don't think he was worthy of.
NBA Draft Lottery - Live Blog
Though, I don't have any capability to (or don't know how) to do a live blog, I'll do the best I can with a pick by pick analysis for the Lottery. My commentary will include how stupid David Kahn is, how good or bad the pick's fashion sense is, and if I think it's a good fit. Hopefully, there will be a couple of trades that I can make fun of as well.
The ESPN intro was great, great song with some cool footage. Only problem is putting Jimmer in a old man golf hat. He isn't Payne Stewart. Could Klay Thompson look anymore awkward. Kyrie could go without the hat as well. He isn't Jason Mraz.
6:34 - David Stern - "Let's hear it for New Jersey." Awesome, great first quote David. He's clearly a genius but he doesn't fit with the younger generation. He's needs his 'stache back.
6:39 - Cavs select Kyrie Irving from Dook. Good first pick with a true lack of a superstar at this point. He is Chris Paul-esque in his game. He really knows how to play and is a better athlete than he gets credit for. With Baron Davis in Cleveland, the Cavs need to do something to get Kyrie a starting spot. Should be interesting to see how that plays out. Someone needs to teach him how to tie a tie. Not sure if he's trying to go with the skinny tie look or not but it doesn't look good especially coming from someone that went to private school all through high school. Bigger knot dude.
6:41 - Twolves select Brandon Knight...just kidding (at least yet). Twolves are quickly becoming the Detroit Lions in the NBA. Lions drafted 95 straight wideouts in the 1st round and Twolves love drafting point guards. David Kahn is bound to do something stupid.
6:45 - Twolves really select Derrick Williams from Arizona. He's a very good player with a lot of explosiveness. He shot the crap out of it from 3 this year but I don't think he shoots that well from the NBA three. Not exactly sure what the Twolves will do now that they have Williams, Beasley, K-Love, and Anthony Randolph essentially playing the four. I'm sure you can play them at the 3 as well but they just drafted Wes Johnson out of Syracuse last year. Kahn is confusing for sure but he probably took the best available. Don't mind the suit, smart and clean. I need a little more flash with the tie.
6:50 - Jazz select Enes Kanter out of Kentucky (kind of) via Turkey. This pick completely changes the rest of the draft. Very interesting story with him. Bounced around to a bunch of prep schools in the US and signed with Kentucky. He never played for Coach Cal because he took too much money from a pro club in Turkey. Dominated the Nike Hoop Summit last year. How do him and Al Jefferson fit together for the Jazz? Another clean suit with a spice on the tie. I could do that.
6:54 - Where does Brandon Knight go now? What about Jimmer? Lots of different story lines now. Jay Bilas is hilarious and if you don't follow his Twitter you wouldn't know.
6:56 - Cavs select Tristan Thompson out of Texas via Toronto, Canada. Not exactly the pick everyone was looking for. I do like him as a player but I don't think he should've gone that high. I hate when people say he is undersized when you a 6'8" almost 6'9" 4 man. The NBA has changed and if you are that big and long you'll be fine. JJ Hickson and himself are basically the same player with Hickson being a righty and Thompson a lefty. Not so sure about that decision. I like the look, smart and classy. Anything else, eh?
7:02 - Raptors select Jonas Valanciunas via Lithuania. Weird, the Raptors select a foreign player. Potential, potential, potential. He'll probably be in Europe for at least a year or two. I don't know too much about him besides people saying he is a young Pau Gasol. That's a heck of billing for someone. He did play with Minnesota's own Khalid El-Amin last season. How does he fit with Ed Davis and Andrea Bargnani? Who plays the 5 because Bargnani is a stretch 5 and not a natural 5? Plan Jane with his suit. I know I can't wear that color because I look dead with it on, but that's just me.
7:07 - Wizards select Jan Vesely from Czech Republic, who will have a lot of fun tonight with his lady friend. We keep hearing that he is a Andrei Kirilenko or Tom Chambers type player. He certainly has some bounce in his game. Once again, with all the bigs that the Wizards have in Javale McGee, Andray Blatche, and Trevor Booker, where does he fit? Will he look good in their new jerseys? Blah with his suit. You would figure his lady friend would help him out a little.
7:11 - Kings select Bismack Biyombo from Congo for the Bobcats. He is the ultimate unknown and that is what makes him intriguing. Played in the Hoop Summit this year and had a triple double with blocks. He's basically Ben Wallace. His offensive skills consist of him laying the ball in and dunking the ball. His body looks somewhat like mine did at his age. JACKED. He can speak six languages, six more than me. Bobcats aren't really that good and I'm not sure how that fits for them. MJ needs to get some work done. Another clean look for the suit. Someone at least taught him how to tie a knot.
7:16 - Pistons select Brandon Knight from Kentucky. He's a very bright and efficient player. He's a combo guard that fits right in with another combo guard in Rodney Stuckey. I don't understand this pick at all. They didn't even work him out. What are they thinking? I hope Knight understands that he'll win as many games in his first two years in Detroit as he did in one year at Kentucky. Franchise is in flux, thank you very much Joe Dumars for drafting Darko and burying the team for years to come. Bill Laimbeer should be the next coach and bring back the Bad Boys. Didn't get a chance to see what he was wearing. These picks just frustrate me, why stockpile guys that are tweeners that do the same thing? Another issue is, they don't even know what type of style they will play without having a head coach. You would think he should/could have a say in the pick.
7:23 - Bobcats select Kemba Walker from UConn. I like really like this pick for the Bobcats. He's a tough nut and he won't back down. He certainly can play the point. They have some tools in Charlotte. They keep saying that he is a combo guy but he certainly be a true point as proven early in his career. Carried the UConn squad to the Big East and NCAA Championship. WINNING, duh. I really like his look tonight. Not too flashy but with a little summer/Euro look with his suit and tie. Not sure what I think about Heather Cox. She is kind of has the motherly look but I like it. Maybe I'm getting old. Any thoughts?
7:29 - Bucks select Jimmer Fredette for the Kings. Not really much to say about Jimmer that isn't already known. He has to be able to share the ball with Tyreke Evans in Sac-town. He is definitely a capable passer. I think he'll be alright defensively. As Jay Bilas says, he's more athletic than people think. He HAD to score at BYU and that is the reason why he took so many shots in Provo. If he went to Brockport, he would have cost the school a lot of money with all the tshirts the crowds would've gotten (free shirt to the crowd for made 3's). I saw him play in high school and I honestly didn't think he would be this good but he worked his tail off. Not so sure about his look but I do like the three piece suit. I need one of those stat.
7:35 - Warriors select Klay Thompson from Washington State. He is a very good shooter and was recruited heavily by Michigan, so you know he can shoot it. He played for Tony Bennett for a year and he certainly can defend. Had an issue with a marijuana arrest toward the end of the year and certainly has to answer some questions about that. So now Golden State has Stephen Curry, Monta Ellis, and Thompson. One has to go for sure and my guess it will be Ellis. New coach Mark Jackson will like this pick. I like the look but he needs to cut down on the pocketsquare. Who is his stylist?
7:41 - Jazz select Alec Burks from Colorado. He was quite the unknown coming out of high school but he has a knack for scoring. That is something that can't be taught. He has ideal size for the 2 spot in the league. He didn't shoot the ball well from 3 but that will come as time goes especially now that he is a pro. Jazz must think they will keep Devin Harris in the long term. I thought they would go young at the point. Looks like he is going to a funeral or exploring the winter in Boulder. It's summertime dude, show some colors but I guess that'll fit right in with the plain Jane state of Utah.
7:46 - Suns select Markieff Morris from Kansas. His twin brother has always been considered a little better but who knows. Markieff is a 4 while Marcus is more of a tweener. I honestly don't know which is which but that's what they keep telling me on the telecast. How do the twins react to being away from each other? Marcus has to be a little jealous right now. I heard Kansas paid top dollar for their services. Will he be the next Channing Frye? Don't mind the suit, though his brother needs some work with his pocketsquare. Hopefully, Marcus follows through on the flowers and fruit he said he would send to Markieff. Same day on those, fruit will go bad quickly without refridgeration.
7:54 - With the last pick of the Lottery the Houston Rockets select Marcus Morris. Wow, certainly didn't see that coming. Like I said before, I can't figure out who is who. Luis Scola and Chuck Hayes play the 4 for the Rockets and I think Kevin McHale will do a good job working with him. Markieff better send some fruit to Houston. Really needs to put that pocketsquare in the pocket like it's supposed to.
That's all for now. I'm sure I'll have more thoughts after the Twolves make a stupid trade sometime later in the draft.
The ESPN intro was great, great song with some cool footage. Only problem is putting Jimmer in a old man golf hat. He isn't Payne Stewart. Could Klay Thompson look anymore awkward. Kyrie could go without the hat as well. He isn't Jason Mraz.
6:34 - David Stern - "Let's hear it for New Jersey." Awesome, great first quote David. He's clearly a genius but he doesn't fit with the younger generation. He's needs his 'stache back.
6:39 - Cavs select Kyrie Irving from Dook. Good first pick with a true lack of a superstar at this point. He is Chris Paul-esque in his game. He really knows how to play and is a better athlete than he gets credit for. With Baron Davis in Cleveland, the Cavs need to do something to get Kyrie a starting spot. Should be interesting to see how that plays out. Someone needs to teach him how to tie a tie. Not sure if he's trying to go with the skinny tie look or not but it doesn't look good especially coming from someone that went to private school all through high school. Bigger knot dude.
6:41 - Twolves select Brandon Knight...just kidding (at least yet). Twolves are quickly becoming the Detroit Lions in the NBA. Lions drafted 95 straight wideouts in the 1st round and Twolves love drafting point guards. David Kahn is bound to do something stupid.
6:45 - Twolves really select Derrick Williams from Arizona. He's a very good player with a lot of explosiveness. He shot the crap out of it from 3 this year but I don't think he shoots that well from the NBA three. Not exactly sure what the Twolves will do now that they have Williams, Beasley, K-Love, and Anthony Randolph essentially playing the four. I'm sure you can play them at the 3 as well but they just drafted Wes Johnson out of Syracuse last year. Kahn is confusing for sure but he probably took the best available. Don't mind the suit, smart and clean. I need a little more flash with the tie.
6:50 - Jazz select Enes Kanter out of Kentucky (kind of) via Turkey. This pick completely changes the rest of the draft. Very interesting story with him. Bounced around to a bunch of prep schools in the US and signed with Kentucky. He never played for Coach Cal because he took too much money from a pro club in Turkey. Dominated the Nike Hoop Summit last year. How do him and Al Jefferson fit together for the Jazz? Another clean suit with a spice on the tie. I could do that.
6:54 - Where does Brandon Knight go now? What about Jimmer? Lots of different story lines now. Jay Bilas is hilarious and if you don't follow his Twitter you wouldn't know.
6:56 - Cavs select Tristan Thompson out of Texas via Toronto, Canada. Not exactly the pick everyone was looking for. I do like him as a player but I don't think he should've gone that high. I hate when people say he is undersized when you a 6'8" almost 6'9" 4 man. The NBA has changed and if you are that big and long you'll be fine. JJ Hickson and himself are basically the same player with Hickson being a righty and Thompson a lefty. Not so sure about that decision. I like the look, smart and classy. Anything else, eh?
7:02 - Raptors select Jonas Valanciunas via Lithuania. Weird, the Raptors select a foreign player. Potential, potential, potential. He'll probably be in Europe for at least a year or two. I don't know too much about him besides people saying he is a young Pau Gasol. That's a heck of billing for someone. He did play with Minnesota's own Khalid El-Amin last season. How does he fit with Ed Davis and Andrea Bargnani? Who plays the 5 because Bargnani is a stretch 5 and not a natural 5? Plan Jane with his suit. I know I can't wear that color because I look dead with it on, but that's just me.
7:07 - Wizards select Jan Vesely from Czech Republic, who will have a lot of fun tonight with his lady friend. We keep hearing that he is a Andrei Kirilenko or Tom Chambers type player. He certainly has some bounce in his game. Once again, with all the bigs that the Wizards have in Javale McGee, Andray Blatche, and Trevor Booker, where does he fit? Will he look good in their new jerseys? Blah with his suit. You would figure his lady friend would help him out a little.
7:11 - Kings select Bismack Biyombo from Congo for the Bobcats. He is the ultimate unknown and that is what makes him intriguing. Played in the Hoop Summit this year and had a triple double with blocks. He's basically Ben Wallace. His offensive skills consist of him laying the ball in and dunking the ball. His body looks somewhat like mine did at his age. JACKED. He can speak six languages, six more than me. Bobcats aren't really that good and I'm not sure how that fits for them. MJ needs to get some work done. Another clean look for the suit. Someone at least taught him how to tie a knot.
7:16 - Pistons select Brandon Knight from Kentucky. He's a very bright and efficient player. He's a combo guard that fits right in with another combo guard in Rodney Stuckey. I don't understand this pick at all. They didn't even work him out. What are they thinking? I hope Knight understands that he'll win as many games in his first two years in Detroit as he did in one year at Kentucky. Franchise is in flux, thank you very much Joe Dumars for drafting Darko and burying the team for years to come. Bill Laimbeer should be the next coach and bring back the Bad Boys. Didn't get a chance to see what he was wearing. These picks just frustrate me, why stockpile guys that are tweeners that do the same thing? Another issue is, they don't even know what type of style they will play without having a head coach. You would think he should/could have a say in the pick.
7:23 - Bobcats select Kemba Walker from UConn. I like really like this pick for the Bobcats. He's a tough nut and he won't back down. He certainly can play the point. They have some tools in Charlotte. They keep saying that he is a combo guy but he certainly be a true point as proven early in his career. Carried the UConn squad to the Big East and NCAA Championship. WINNING, duh. I really like his look tonight. Not too flashy but with a little summer/Euro look with his suit and tie. Not sure what I think about Heather Cox. She is kind of has the motherly look but I like it. Maybe I'm getting old. Any thoughts?
7:29 - Bucks select Jimmer Fredette for the Kings. Not really much to say about Jimmer that isn't already known. He has to be able to share the ball with Tyreke Evans in Sac-town. He is definitely a capable passer. I think he'll be alright defensively. As Jay Bilas says, he's more athletic than people think. He HAD to score at BYU and that is the reason why he took so many shots in Provo. If he went to Brockport, he would have cost the school a lot of money with all the tshirts the crowds would've gotten (free shirt to the crowd for made 3's). I saw him play in high school and I honestly didn't think he would be this good but he worked his tail off. Not so sure about his look but I do like the three piece suit. I need one of those stat.
7:35 - Warriors select Klay Thompson from Washington State. He is a very good shooter and was recruited heavily by Michigan, so you know he can shoot it. He played for Tony Bennett for a year and he certainly can defend. Had an issue with a marijuana arrest toward the end of the year and certainly has to answer some questions about that. So now Golden State has Stephen Curry, Monta Ellis, and Thompson. One has to go for sure and my guess it will be Ellis. New coach Mark Jackson will like this pick. I like the look but he needs to cut down on the pocketsquare. Who is his stylist?
7:41 - Jazz select Alec Burks from Colorado. He was quite the unknown coming out of high school but he has a knack for scoring. That is something that can't be taught. He has ideal size for the 2 spot in the league. He didn't shoot the ball well from 3 but that will come as time goes especially now that he is a pro. Jazz must think they will keep Devin Harris in the long term. I thought they would go young at the point. Looks like he is going to a funeral or exploring the winter in Boulder. It's summertime dude, show some colors but I guess that'll fit right in with the plain Jane state of Utah.
7:46 - Suns select Markieff Morris from Kansas. His twin brother has always been considered a little better but who knows. Markieff is a 4 while Marcus is more of a tweener. I honestly don't know which is which but that's what they keep telling me on the telecast. How do the twins react to being away from each other? Marcus has to be a little jealous right now. I heard Kansas paid top dollar for their services. Will he be the next Channing Frye? Don't mind the suit, though his brother needs some work with his pocketsquare. Hopefully, Marcus follows through on the flowers and fruit he said he would send to Markieff. Same day on those, fruit will go bad quickly without refridgeration.
7:54 - With the last pick of the Lottery the Houston Rockets select Marcus Morris. Wow, certainly didn't see that coming. Like I said before, I can't figure out who is who. Luis Scola and Chuck Hayes play the 4 for the Rockets and I think Kevin McHale will do a good job working with him. Markieff better send some fruit to Houston. Really needs to put that pocketsquare in the pocket like it's supposed to.
That's all for now. I'm sure I'll have more thoughts after the Twolves make a stupid trade sometime later in the draft.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
College World Series - Omaha
As most of you know, I headed to Omaha for the first ever College World Series at the TD Ameritrade Park in downtown Omaha. It was quite the experience. I got to see four games, one on Saturday, two on Sunday, and one on Monday and then I made my way back to the Twin Cities.
Let's get right to it. Driving through Iowa is just awful. There is nothing there except for the occasional set of 40 to 50 windmills to either side of the highway. At least I got to drive close to 80 the whole time. Only thing positive in Iowa in my two driving experiences through there.
I got to Omaha right around 2:30 on Saturday and saw Rosenblatt Stadium from the highway. I really wanted to go check it out but it wasn't in the cards and probably won't be. I was told they are getting rid of it soon. It's too bad, there is a lot of history there. I got to my hotel and figured I need to head downtown to get there in time for the second game of the day. UNC vs. Vanderbilt was just finishing up when I got there.
As I arrived at the stadium, I was really impressed. It looked like a major league park in my first viewing. It had a really nice entrance and was definitely on par with some major league facilities. I got a couple of tickets for the general admission seats and got to walk around the whole thing. The problem with the general admission seats are that they aren't guaranteed. You can use them for any game you want but it doesn't necessarily mean you will get it. There are 5,500 seats available in the outfield and if you don't get there in time you are left in the dust. You can use those tickets for any game though, which is nice, but if you are on a timeframe, not so good.
I snuck into line and probably cut at least a thousand people and ended up in the fourth row in left field just above the bullpen. I had a great seat and watched a pretty good game in football powers Florida vs. Texas. I always enjoy watching Texas because I like their coach, Augie Garrido. He is as old school as they come, proven by this video (probably not NSFW - not suited for work, he has some choice words). Texas has played a ton of small ball all year and don't exactly have too many bombers on the squad. It was obvious that Texas couldn't bash with the Gators and the Gators came out on top 8-4.
On Sunday I got my baseball fill for the year. I was hoping for some quality games and some quality baseball and I sure got it. I got to see UVa (Virginia for the dumb people) play against Cal. UVa was throwing the number two pick in the MLB Draft, Danny Hultzen, and he is pretty darn good. One great thing about him is that he also bats 5th in the lineup for the Cavs. You don't see that too often. Cal has a great story and it's awesome that they are playing in the CWS after getting the plug pulled. One of Cal's players went to the same high school as one of the Pipers, Levi Wenrich. Both went to William Hart HS in Newhall,CA. Not sure if Levi knows Devon Rodriguez but they would have been a year apart there. UVa scored a couple of runs late and ended up winning 4-1.
The second game was a matchup of defending National Champion South Carolina versus Texas A&M. I moved seats for this one and headed over to right center for a little different view. I certainly couldn't complain about these ones. One thing I noticed right away is that the Aggies went old school with their stirups. They certainly would have made Alan Trammel proud. Game started off with a bang it was 4-4 after the first. I thought I was going to be at the park until I looked like this. From the 2nd to the 8th there was basically nothing going on and that part went fast. A&M did nothing in the top of the 9th and then the Gamecocks got things going. They got the bases juiced and forced A&M to bring in five infielders. The Gamecocks got a basehit into the outfield and let me get back to my hotel. Great game.
It was a long day at the park for me. I was baseball'ed out until I got back to my hotel and watched the end of the Yanks-Cubbies game. Almost too much baseball for a basketball coach.
The last game of my adventures was the Tarheels of UNC taking on the Longhorns of Texas. I got some regular seating for this one and was right along the left field line right where foul territory got thinner. They were some nice seats for sure. I actually sat next to a couple of older women who have had "season tickets" for the CWS for the past 19 years. It was pretty cool to hear some of their stories. Carolina sent out a freshmen lefty who pitched like a senior. He was phenomenal all game long. He only gave up four hits in a complete game shutout. He has Texas off balance and it was an impressive performance. I was happy to see the Heels get a win on my last game at my first experience in Omaha.
I'm going to go over some positives and negatives of my experience.
Positives
- Great atmosphere, city of Omaha really embraces the CWS
- Some really good baseball was played
- Ballpark was great, add another level and it's just as good as Target Field
- Reasonable ticket prices, 4 games for $48 (I got one free for my good looks)
Negatives
- Line for General Admission seating lasted about a mile, need to be more efficient
- Price for snow cone was $5 and yes I paid it
- Lack of home runs - I didn't see one in BP either, part because of park (wind direction) and new bats (lack of pop)
Interesting Facts
- The new stadium is home to the CWS and Creighton baseball, the local minor league team doesn't play there, it's too big
- Rosenblatt Stadium could seat just as many fans as the new stadium, it always seemed small on tv
- I read in the paper that ESPN brings roughly 160 people to help out with the telecast. Jenn Brown looked just as good in person as on tv.
- Creighton is about six blocks away from the stadium, starting with their unreal soccer facility.
I am hoping to make this an annual event for myself. Nothing like watching some quality baseball with guys always on the top step like it's supposed to be.
Let's get right to it. Driving through Iowa is just awful. There is nothing there except for the occasional set of 40 to 50 windmills to either side of the highway. At least I got to drive close to 80 the whole time. Only thing positive in Iowa in my two driving experiences through there.
I got to Omaha right around 2:30 on Saturday and saw Rosenblatt Stadium from the highway. I really wanted to go check it out but it wasn't in the cards and probably won't be. I was told they are getting rid of it soon. It's too bad, there is a lot of history there. I got to my hotel and figured I need to head downtown to get there in time for the second game of the day. UNC vs. Vanderbilt was just finishing up when I got there.
As I arrived at the stadium, I was really impressed. It looked like a major league park in my first viewing. It had a really nice entrance and was definitely on par with some major league facilities. I got a couple of tickets for the general admission seats and got to walk around the whole thing. The problem with the general admission seats are that they aren't guaranteed. You can use them for any game you want but it doesn't necessarily mean you will get it. There are 5,500 seats available in the outfield and if you don't get there in time you are left in the dust. You can use those tickets for any game though, which is nice, but if you are on a timeframe, not so good.
I snuck into line and probably cut at least a thousand people and ended up in the fourth row in left field just above the bullpen. I had a great seat and watched a pretty good game in football powers Florida vs. Texas. I always enjoy watching Texas because I like their coach, Augie Garrido. He is as old school as they come, proven by this video (probably not NSFW - not suited for work, he has some choice words). Texas has played a ton of small ball all year and don't exactly have too many bombers on the squad. It was obvious that Texas couldn't bash with the Gators and the Gators came out on top 8-4.
On Sunday I got my baseball fill for the year. I was hoping for some quality games and some quality baseball and I sure got it. I got to see UVa (Virginia for the dumb people) play against Cal. UVa was throwing the number two pick in the MLB Draft, Danny Hultzen, and he is pretty darn good. One great thing about him is that he also bats 5th in the lineup for the Cavs. You don't see that too often. Cal has a great story and it's awesome that they are playing in the CWS after getting the plug pulled. One of Cal's players went to the same high school as one of the Pipers, Levi Wenrich. Both went to William Hart HS in Newhall,CA. Not sure if Levi knows Devon Rodriguez but they would have been a year apart there. UVa scored a couple of runs late and ended up winning 4-1.
The second game was a matchup of defending National Champion South Carolina versus Texas A&M. I moved seats for this one and headed over to right center for a little different view. I certainly couldn't complain about these ones. One thing I noticed right away is that the Aggies went old school with their stirups. They certainly would have made Alan Trammel proud. Game started off with a bang it was 4-4 after the first. I thought I was going to be at the park until I looked like this. From the 2nd to the 8th there was basically nothing going on and that part went fast. A&M did nothing in the top of the 9th and then the Gamecocks got things going. They got the bases juiced and forced A&M to bring in five infielders. The Gamecocks got a basehit into the outfield and let me get back to my hotel. Great game.
It was a long day at the park for me. I was baseball'ed out until I got back to my hotel and watched the end of the Yanks-Cubbies game. Almost too much baseball for a basketball coach.
The last game of my adventures was the Tarheels of UNC taking on the Longhorns of Texas. I got some regular seating for this one and was right along the left field line right where foul territory got thinner. They were some nice seats for sure. I actually sat next to a couple of older women who have had "season tickets" for the CWS for the past 19 years. It was pretty cool to hear some of their stories. Carolina sent out a freshmen lefty who pitched like a senior. He was phenomenal all game long. He only gave up four hits in a complete game shutout. He has Texas off balance and it was an impressive performance. I was happy to see the Heels get a win on my last game at my first experience in Omaha.
I'm going to go over some positives and negatives of my experience.
Positives
- Great atmosphere, city of Omaha really embraces the CWS
- Some really good baseball was played
- Ballpark was great, add another level and it's just as good as Target Field
- Reasonable ticket prices, 4 games for $48 (I got one free for my good looks)
Negatives
- Line for General Admission seating lasted about a mile, need to be more efficient
- Price for snow cone was $5 and yes I paid it
- Lack of home runs - I didn't see one in BP either, part because of park (wind direction) and new bats (lack of pop)
Interesting Facts
- The new stadium is home to the CWS and Creighton baseball, the local minor league team doesn't play there, it's too big
- Rosenblatt Stadium could seat just as many fans as the new stadium, it always seemed small on tv
- I read in the paper that ESPN brings roughly 160 people to help out with the telecast. Jenn Brown looked just as good in person as on tv.
- Creighton is about six blocks away from the stadium, starting with their unreal soccer facility.
I am hoping to make this an annual event for myself. Nothing like watching some quality baseball with guys always on the top step like it's supposed to be.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Waitin for it on Wednesday
I've been noticeably absent for a little bit, so I have lots of things to talk about. Numerous random topics to be talked about it, so let's have some fun.
NBA Champs, Dallas Mavericks. Certainly didn't see it coming. I thought for sure the Heat would have their number. I was certainly proven wrong. Dirk was a flat out star throughout the whole Finals and playoffs. There are a ton of things to talk about after his performance. Where does he stand on the all time power forward lists? What is Mark Cuban planning instead of rings? Do they have another run in them?
I was listening to ESPN radio the other day and they had their "experts" talking about where Dirk stands on the all time power forward lists. Duncan was consistently listed as numero uno with http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eQlUINKWtU and Barkley at two-three. And obviously a couple of other names came up before Dirk's name came up. Dirk is more of a small forward in a power forward's body. There isn't exactly power to his game. Plus, like I've said before, Duncan isn't a power forward, he's clearly a center with touch out to 18'. Now that Dirk has got the "ring" his place in history as an all time great. We can thank MJ for basically making championships the almighty proving ground.
Mark Cuban talked about rings being old school and out of fashion. He said he had something big in mind for his guys. I can't even imagine what he has planned. Maybe a giant ring that can be worn as a necklace? A diamond encrusted championship belt? We will see, I'm sure it will be fun for the best owner in sports.
I have mentioned this before, the Mavs have a ton of experience and that is certainly one of the reasons why they have stuck together in big moments and made crazy runs when they needed to. I don't know if they can do it again, J-Kidd is getting old (or is already old). There are a lot of miles on each one of their main guys' legs. They are actually very similar to the Celtics a few years back. This might be their last hoorah as a unit.
I feel bad for the Heat. They celebrated their championship before the season. It was a heck of a gathering with fireworks and lasershows galore. I think it's hilarious. They didn't deserve to win, they looked lost late in each contest. Lebron took a total backseat in each 4th quarter. It's actually disappointing to see arguably this generation's most talented player fold like a book down the stretch.
Speaking of Lebron, it's amazing to see the expectations that people place on him. For his career to be where everyone should be he needs to average a triple double and get at least as many rings as Jordan (six). People jumped all over him in Game 5 for his lackluster performance and he still had a triple double with 17 points, 10 assists, and 10 boards. It's like he played bad, it's just that he didn't meet expectations. Why aren't people giving Chris Bosh flak? He is considered a "max contract" player and he did nothing but live off of Lebron and Wade the whole playoffs. Lebron has certainly brought a lot of the expectations on himself for his "decision" but it would be hard for anyone to live up to these expectations. He's very similar to A-Rod in a sense. He's trying to please everyone instead of taking care of business when he needs to.
I've heard of bunch of people talk about how Lebron has no mid-range game and how he needs to add that for him to take his game to the next level. I'm calling those people idiots because it has been proven that Lebron actually makes for mid-range shots than just about anyone in the NBA (I think he's 2nd or 3rd). What LBJ needs to add is a post up game. Miami was clearly missing a low block presence. Dallas had theirs in Dirk. The Bulls had Jordan because Luc Longley and Bill Wennington weren't exactly going to light up the scoreboard. The top players have low post games. It helps them get easy shots and it helps them get to the free throw line. Simple solution, it's not the mid-range game, it's the post-up game, work on it.
I have a friend who keeps on telling me that "The Decision" was brought on by David Stern. I certainly won't disagree with that statement. Stern is clearly a genius and figures out ways for the NBA to move to the forefront in the media. Would he tell Lebron to do something like that to make the NBA like the WWE? Are the Heat the NWO? LBJ switching to the Heat stirred the pot and was definitely a "Hollywood" Hogan move. It's just something to think about. LBJ's popularity has decreased this year but the casual fan watched it way more than usual. Any thoughts?
After watching Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals I've determined two things. The Cup is one of the coolest traditions in sports. Guys completely stay away from The Cup until they win it. They won't touch it and try not to go near it. To see the emotion the guys have when they skate around with The Cup is one of the coolest things you'll see. Point number two is that Tim Thomas looks exactly like Alan from the Hangover with his playoff beard. Agree or disagree with me. Alan vs. Tim.
Last night I was able to watch the US' last group match in the Gold Cup for soccer. We needed to win or tie to advance to the next round. We (why I say we, I have no idea) looked like poop. Score should've been at least 4-0 instead we made it an interesting 1-0. I just don't get it. How we don't play with any urgency. The only time we see that urgency is when we get down early and have to fight back to get back into the game. I know it happens in all sports at all levels but you can't just walk onto the field, ice, or court and expect to win because we have USA on our jerseys. Big game on Sunday vs. Jamacia in the Quarters. If the team loses expect Bob Bradley to be let go. The team looks like it has gotten stagnant in their development. I'm certainly not saying he is a bad coach because I think he is but at what point do we take our game to the next level.
I asked my buddy Mark today (he's a soccer coach) and asked him why the US is so freaking bad on set pieces on the offensive and defensive ends. It just doesn't make sense to me how we just wait for things to happen instead of making things happen (doesn't that sound familiar?). Attack the ball and things are going to go your way. The aggressor usually wins the battle.
Is it just me or do more people have neck tattoos than normal? I keep seeing people with neck tattoos and wonder where do these people work and where is that acceptable in a business setting besides a tattoo parlor. Am I becoming the old delusional man that I knew that I would become?
I probably won't be back until next week to talk about my experience down in Omaha for the College World Series, should be awesome. If you see me, I'll probably look like a lobster when I get back but a really good looking one.
NBA Champs, Dallas Mavericks. Certainly didn't see it coming. I thought for sure the Heat would have their number. I was certainly proven wrong. Dirk was a flat out star throughout the whole Finals and playoffs. There are a ton of things to talk about after his performance. Where does he stand on the all time power forward lists? What is Mark Cuban planning instead of rings? Do they have another run in them?
I was listening to ESPN radio the other day and they had their "experts" talking about where Dirk stands on the all time power forward lists. Duncan was consistently listed as numero uno with http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eQlUINKWtU and Barkley at two-three. And obviously a couple of other names came up before Dirk's name came up. Dirk is more of a small forward in a power forward's body. There isn't exactly power to his game. Plus, like I've said before, Duncan isn't a power forward, he's clearly a center with touch out to 18'. Now that Dirk has got the "ring" his place in history as an all time great. We can thank MJ for basically making championships the almighty proving ground.
Mark Cuban talked about rings being old school and out of fashion. He said he had something big in mind for his guys. I can't even imagine what he has planned. Maybe a giant ring that can be worn as a necklace? A diamond encrusted championship belt? We will see, I'm sure it will be fun for the best owner in sports.
I have mentioned this before, the Mavs have a ton of experience and that is certainly one of the reasons why they have stuck together in big moments and made crazy runs when they needed to. I don't know if they can do it again, J-Kidd is getting old (or is already old). There are a lot of miles on each one of their main guys' legs. They are actually very similar to the Celtics a few years back. This might be their last hoorah as a unit.
I feel bad for the Heat. They celebrated their championship before the season. It was a heck of a gathering with fireworks and lasershows galore. I think it's hilarious. They didn't deserve to win, they looked lost late in each contest. Lebron took a total backseat in each 4th quarter. It's actually disappointing to see arguably this generation's most talented player fold like a book down the stretch.
Speaking of Lebron, it's amazing to see the expectations that people place on him. For his career to be where everyone should be he needs to average a triple double and get at least as many rings as Jordan (six). People jumped all over him in Game 5 for his lackluster performance and he still had a triple double with 17 points, 10 assists, and 10 boards. It's like he played bad, it's just that he didn't meet expectations. Why aren't people giving Chris Bosh flak? He is considered a "max contract" player and he did nothing but live off of Lebron and Wade the whole playoffs. Lebron has certainly brought a lot of the expectations on himself for his "decision" but it would be hard for anyone to live up to these expectations. He's very similar to A-Rod in a sense. He's trying to please everyone instead of taking care of business when he needs to.
I've heard of bunch of people talk about how Lebron has no mid-range game and how he needs to add that for him to take his game to the next level. I'm calling those people idiots because it has been proven that Lebron actually makes for mid-range shots than just about anyone in the NBA (I think he's 2nd or 3rd). What LBJ needs to add is a post up game. Miami was clearly missing a low block presence. Dallas had theirs in Dirk. The Bulls had Jordan because Luc Longley and Bill Wennington weren't exactly going to light up the scoreboard. The top players have low post games. It helps them get easy shots and it helps them get to the free throw line. Simple solution, it's not the mid-range game, it's the post-up game, work on it.
I have a friend who keeps on telling me that "The Decision" was brought on by David Stern. I certainly won't disagree with that statement. Stern is clearly a genius and figures out ways for the NBA to move to the forefront in the media. Would he tell Lebron to do something like that to make the NBA like the WWE? Are the Heat the NWO? LBJ switching to the Heat stirred the pot and was definitely a "Hollywood" Hogan move. It's just something to think about. LBJ's popularity has decreased this year but the casual fan watched it way more than usual. Any thoughts?
After watching Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals I've determined two things. The Cup is one of the coolest traditions in sports. Guys completely stay away from The Cup until they win it. They won't touch it and try not to go near it. To see the emotion the guys have when they skate around with The Cup is one of the coolest things you'll see. Point number two is that Tim Thomas looks exactly like Alan from the Hangover with his playoff beard. Agree or disagree with me. Alan vs. Tim.
Last night I was able to watch the US' last group match in the Gold Cup for soccer. We needed to win or tie to advance to the next round. We (why I say we, I have no idea) looked like poop. Score should've been at least 4-0 instead we made it an interesting 1-0. I just don't get it. How we don't play with any urgency. The only time we see that urgency is when we get down early and have to fight back to get back into the game. I know it happens in all sports at all levels but you can't just walk onto the field, ice, or court and expect to win because we have USA on our jerseys. Big game on Sunday vs. Jamacia in the Quarters. If the team loses expect Bob Bradley to be let go. The team looks like it has gotten stagnant in their development. I'm certainly not saying he is a bad coach because I think he is but at what point do we take our game to the next level.
I asked my buddy Mark today (he's a soccer coach) and asked him why the US is so freaking bad on set pieces on the offensive and defensive ends. It just doesn't make sense to me how we just wait for things to happen instead of making things happen (doesn't that sound familiar?). Attack the ball and things are going to go your way. The aggressor usually wins the battle.
Is it just me or do more people have neck tattoos than normal? I keep seeing people with neck tattoos and wonder where do these people work and where is that acceptable in a business setting besides a tattoo parlor. Am I becoming the old delusional man that I knew that I would become?
I probably won't be back until next week to talk about my experience down in Omaha for the College World Series, should be awesome. If you see me, I'll probably look like a lobster when I get back but a really good looking one.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Wingin It on Wednesday
I've been a little absent for the past couple of days just so I could bring everyone a glorious new blog. I even had some requests and I'll hit on those in a bit.
What a series The Finals have become. I still think that the Heat will win in six (don't I stated at on here but I've said it to people, I swear). Lebron has clearly played second fiddle to D-Wade, my biggest concern is how he will react in the next two or three games. His line last night wasn't awful but to someone that calls himself, "King James," it wasn't royal worthy. As the Abe Lincoln on Deshawn Stevenson's neck said, "He checked out," and he certainly looked like it. Is it too many minutes? I don't know but it's certainly not a time to make excuses, two or three games left in the season.
Dirk has been ridiculous. It's just impressive to watch his footwork and how he gets off shots. Obviously, being 7 foot helps this quite a bit but he has the ultimate old man's game. He knows just when to go and when to stop for a jumper. He likes going to left and the Heat overplayed that last night and he went right and scored to win it. One thing that i noticed was that he swept through low with the ball instead of going high like he usually does when he goes right. Quite an impressive display. Reminded me of my Corning Moose hoops squad when I carried the team to a "W" with a massive zit on my cheek. It was a gutsy performance.
On a surprising note (wink, wink) Terrelle Pryor is out at The Ohio State. After meeting with the NCAA my guess is that they basically told him there is no way he'll play any games next season. UFL or CFL he comes. I sure hope the Toronto Argonauts pick him up. A great city to get some awesome Gucci stuff.
Mark Jackson was named head coach for the Golden State Warriors the other day. I will never understand how someone with ZERO coaching experience gets a head gig in the NBA. Ok, maybe he coached a team at the Rucker but it's certainly not the same, erroneous if you ask me. I do understand that he was a very smart player throughout his career and certainly played for some really good head coaches but this move doesn't make sense to me. I'm sure he'll surround himself with some assistants that have head coaching experience but why take a chance on him? I know the Celtics did the same thing with Doc Rivers but he was a "terrible" coach until all of a sudden he got Ray Allen and KG added to the squad. I don't see any Hall of Famers on the Warrior squad at the moment.
Another move by the Warriors that is running around a little is to trade Monta Ellis and his tattoos for Andre Iguodala (I got nothing). I do like the trade for the Warriors. It doesn't make sense for them to have Ellis and Stephen Curry in the backcourt together when neither is a very good defender, both need the ball in their hands, and neither are true point guards. Plus, it will give Golden State someone that can actually defend. Realistically, Igoudala should be a team's third or fourth scorer and a lockdown defender. He ahd to carry the Sixers offensively for a while and he isn't capable of doing it because he isn't a shooter.
The trade certainly doesn't make sense for the Sixers because it would give them three guys that all do the same thing. Three undersized two guards, who aren't point guards in Ellis, Louis Williams, and Jrue Holiday. Yes, Ellis is explosive as can be but isn't reliable on the defensive end to cover one on one. He is definitely good at anticipating passes but he isn't a lockdown guy. Doug Collins would go nuts with those three for sure.
As I'm watching the Yankees-Sox game, I am so frustrated with managers that pull pitchers to get the better "matchup" a la righty on righty and lefty on lefty. I'm sure percentages say that this whole thing works but it's just stupid to me, especially when the previous pitcher finally caught a groove. Perfect example is what just happened with the Yanks. Girardi replaced AJ Burnett who pitched like poop for most of the game after AJ gave up a base hit. Burnett actually started to pitch alright and then Boone Logan comes in and his sequence goes as single, walk, walk (scored a run), and a strikeout to end the inning. Still cost them a run. Go with your gut every once in a while instead of going with some book that tells you what to do.
The Hutton Arena floor is getting painted right now and it's a MAJOR upgrade. Finally got rid of the Supermodel Piper and went with the HU in the middle of the floor. I don't have pictures right now but it'll be up on our athletic website soon, I think.
What a series The Finals have become. I still think that the Heat will win in six (don't I stated at on here but I've said it to people, I swear). Lebron has clearly played second fiddle to D-Wade, my biggest concern is how he will react in the next two or three games. His line last night wasn't awful but to someone that calls himself, "King James," it wasn't royal worthy. As the Abe Lincoln on Deshawn Stevenson's neck said, "He checked out," and he certainly looked like it. Is it too many minutes? I don't know but it's certainly not a time to make excuses, two or three games left in the season.
Dirk has been ridiculous. It's just impressive to watch his footwork and how he gets off shots. Obviously, being 7 foot helps this quite a bit but he has the ultimate old man's game. He knows just when to go and when to stop for a jumper. He likes going to left and the Heat overplayed that last night and he went right and scored to win it. One thing that i noticed was that he swept through low with the ball instead of going high like he usually does when he goes right. Quite an impressive display. Reminded me of my Corning Moose hoops squad when I carried the team to a "W" with a massive zit on my cheek. It was a gutsy performance.
On a surprising note (wink, wink) Terrelle Pryor is out at The Ohio State. After meeting with the NCAA my guess is that they basically told him there is no way he'll play any games next season. UFL or CFL he comes. I sure hope the Toronto Argonauts pick him up. A great city to get some awesome Gucci stuff.
Mark Jackson was named head coach for the Golden State Warriors the other day. I will never understand how someone with ZERO coaching experience gets a head gig in the NBA. Ok, maybe he coached a team at the Rucker but it's certainly not the same, erroneous if you ask me. I do understand that he was a very smart player throughout his career and certainly played for some really good head coaches but this move doesn't make sense to me. I'm sure he'll surround himself with some assistants that have head coaching experience but why take a chance on him? I know the Celtics did the same thing with Doc Rivers but he was a "terrible" coach until all of a sudden he got Ray Allen and KG added to the squad. I don't see any Hall of Famers on the Warrior squad at the moment.
Another move by the Warriors that is running around a little is to trade Monta Ellis and his tattoos for Andre Iguodala (I got nothing). I do like the trade for the Warriors. It doesn't make sense for them to have Ellis and Stephen Curry in the backcourt together when neither is a very good defender, both need the ball in their hands, and neither are true point guards. Plus, it will give Golden State someone that can actually defend. Realistically, Igoudala should be a team's third or fourth scorer and a lockdown defender. He ahd to carry the Sixers offensively for a while and he isn't capable of doing it because he isn't a shooter.
The trade certainly doesn't make sense for the Sixers because it would give them three guys that all do the same thing. Three undersized two guards, who aren't point guards in Ellis, Louis Williams, and Jrue Holiday. Yes, Ellis is explosive as can be but isn't reliable on the defensive end to cover one on one. He is definitely good at anticipating passes but he isn't a lockdown guy. Doug Collins would go nuts with those three for sure.
As I'm watching the Yankees-Sox game, I am so frustrated with managers that pull pitchers to get the better "matchup" a la righty on righty and lefty on lefty. I'm sure percentages say that this whole thing works but it's just stupid to me, especially when the previous pitcher finally caught a groove. Perfect example is what just happened with the Yanks. Girardi replaced AJ Burnett who pitched like poop for most of the game after AJ gave up a base hit. Burnett actually started to pitch alright and then Boone Logan comes in and his sequence goes as single, walk, walk (scored a run), and a strikeout to end the inning. Still cost them a run. Go with your gut every once in a while instead of going with some book that tells you what to do.
The Hutton Arena floor is getting painted right now and it's a MAJOR upgrade. Finally got rid of the Supermodel Piper and went with the HU in the middle of the floor. I don't have pictures right now but it'll be up on our athletic website soon, I think.
Monday, June 6, 2011
1st Pick, Star or Bust
The NBA Draft is coming up and of course there is always differences in opinion in who should be #1. I'll go over each of their careers and I'll determine if they are stars or busts. You can disagree if you want. To quote the great Charles Barkley, "I may be wrong, but I doubt it." I'll also post some of the other players from that draft that have had successful NBA careers.
I'll start with 1992, The Year of the Diesel
1992 - Shaquille O'Neal
Just retired, had a great NBA career. Finished 5th all time in points scored. One of the most entertaining players in NBA history.
STAR
Notable Picks - Alonzo Mourning, Robert Horry, "Baby Jordan" Harold Minor
1993 - Chris Webber
I had a very solid career with numerous teams. Flourished while with the Sacramento Kings. Averaged a little over 20 ppg and close to 10 boards a game. Stats would definitely be higher but I think he played a few more years than he was truly effective. My buddy still insists he was one of the biggest underachievers ever for his talent.
STAR
Notable Picks - Penny Hardaway, Vin Baker, Allan Houston
1994 - Glenn Robinson
Averaged over 20ppg in a ten year career. Was a heck of a scorer. Had an old man's game as soon as he got in the league. Never really wowed anyone but did make two All Star appearances. Carried the Bucks for a while.
STAR
Notable Picks - Jason Kidd, Grant Hill, Juwan Howard, Yinka Dare
1995 - Joe Smith
Career average of just over 10 points a game. Still in the league and is basically a serviceable backup and has been that way for a while. Hasn't done much for ten years but he is still "playing."
BUST
Notable Picks - Jerry Stackhouse, Rasheed Wallace, Kevin Garnett
1996 - Allen Iverson
The quickest player I've ever seen in person. You don't see too much 5'10" two guards in the league. Basically carried the Sixers to the NBA Finals. Practice speech is one of the best of time. Was one of the best scorers in NBA history. Career ended on a tough note.
STAR
Notable Picks - Marcus Camby, Ray Allen, Kobe Bryant
1997 - Tim Duncan
Is considered one of the best if not the best power forwards of all time. I still would consider him a center but that's me. "The Big Fundamental" has won a bunch of championships and is averaging 20 and 11 for his career. A lot of miles on those legs, almost time to hang it up.
STAR
Notable Picks - Chauncey Billups, Tracy McGrady, Keith Van Horn (not a very deep draft)
1998 - Michael Olowokandi
Things are so bad for "The Candy Man" that he isn't even listed on the NBA website. Wasn't the best situation playing for the Clippers and obviously never lived up to expectations. Was a serviceable big guy for a while. Amazing what being 7 feet tall will do for you
BUST
Notable Picks - Mike Bibby, Vince Carter, Dirk Nowitzki, Paul Pierce
1999 - Elton Brand
Has been a very solid big for many years and is one of the better Dookies to play in the NBA. A couple of injuries have slowed him down in recent years but he was a solid 20 and 10 guy for roughly the first 8 years of his career.
STAR
Notable Picks - Baron Davis, Lamar Odom, Shawn Marion, Jason Terry
2000 - Kenyon Martin
One of the most explosive athletes to play in the NBA. Always seemed angry at the rim. Averaged about 13 and 7 his career. Instead of relying on his jumper, shouldn't stuck around the rim. My answer below will surprise you but that draft was awful
STAR - based on others in draft
Notable Picks - Mike Miller, Jamal Crawford, Mateen Cleaves
2001 - Kwame Brown
A high school kid gets put into a cut throat owners team = not good combo. He couldn't even make a left handed layup when he came out. Averaged over 10 points once in his career. He needed time to develop but was never able to. He is still in the league and started for Jordan's team for part of the year.
BUST
Notable Picks - Tyson Chandler, Pau Gasol, Joe Johnson
2002 - Yao Ming
Clearly changed the game with his massive frame and great touch. Has averaged 19 and 9 for his career. Was the cornerstone for the Rockets franchise. Obviously, has had a tough time with injuries the past couple of years. When you are that big, your body breaks down and it's just a matter of when.
STAR
Notable Picks - Amare Stoudamire, Caron Butler, Nene
2003 - Lebron James
Came in with the most hype of any other player in NBA history and certainly has lived up to expectations, minus the ring. Probably the biggest freak the NBA has ever seen. He's 6'8" and probably close to 270 pounds (he's much more than he's listed). Wants the killer instinct but doesn't quite have it yet.
STAR
Notable Picks - Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, Darko (ha ha)
2004 - Dwight Howard
The second coming of Shaq-fu but not quite as big. Has slowly developed his offensive game but still is a terrible free throw shooter. Won his third straight Defensive Player of the Year award this past season. Still will develop even more around the basket if he is will to put in the time.
STAR
Notable Picks - Emeka Okafor, Ben Gordon, Luol Deng
2005 - Andrew Bogut
Has a very solid player for Milwaukee for his whole career. It's unfortunate that he has had to carry a bad franchise for a long time. Has averaged around 13 and 9 for his career. Had one of the grossest injuries I've seen when he dislocated his elbow a few years back.
STAR - for his team and that draft class, obviously not to level as other guys but draft was ok
Notable Picks - Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Andrew Bynum
2006 - Andrea Bargnani
Was a great fit for Toronto when he was drafted. He is a poor man's Dirk but has been effective over the years. Had a little more freedom once Bosh left. Everyone wanted to make him into a 5 but he is really a faceup 4 without the athleticism.
STAR - I know it's still early but again look at the draft
Notable Picks - LaMarcus Aldridge, Brandon Roy, Rudy Gay
2007 - Greg Oden
Injuries, Injuries, Injuries. He has certainly gotten bit with the injury buy. Over the course of the two years he's played he has average 9 and 7. Not exactly what you are looking for with a #1 pick.
BUST
Notable Picks - Kevin Durant, Joakim Noah, Marc Gasol (2nd round)
2008 - Derrick Rose
Won the MVP this season and has really elevated his game. Has always been a winner but still needs to develop that killer instinct to put his near the top of the NBA. Lebron, Derrick, and fellow 2008 pick Russell Westbrook are on a different level athletically than everyone in the NBA.
STAR
Notable Picks - Russell Westbrook, Kevin Love, Danilo Gallinari
2009 - Blake Griffin
All I have to say is, "WOW." He is a stud athlete and will dunk everything he can. Probably had more big time plays than anyone in the league. Put together a very impressive double-double stretch in his rookie year, this past season. Will need to develop a jumper as he gets older, I'm sure he'll work at it.
STAR - at least right now
Notable Picks - Tyreke Evans, Stephen Curry, Taj Gibson, Ricky Rubio (blah)
2010 - John Wall
Had a very impressive rookie year and probably would've been Rookie of the Year had Blake Griffin not gotten hurt the year before. Averaged 16 points and 8 assists for a crappy Wizards team. Should be interesting to see how he develops over time. Like Griffin, will need to be more consistent with his jumper
STAR - as of now
Notable Picks - Landry Fields (2nd round), not much else as of now (that'll change)
I'll start with 1992, The Year of the Diesel
1992 - Shaquille O'Neal
Just retired, had a great NBA career. Finished 5th all time in points scored. One of the most entertaining players in NBA history.
STAR
Notable Picks - Alonzo Mourning, Robert Horry, "Baby Jordan" Harold Minor
1993 - Chris Webber
I had a very solid career with numerous teams. Flourished while with the Sacramento Kings. Averaged a little over 20 ppg and close to 10 boards a game. Stats would definitely be higher but I think he played a few more years than he was truly effective. My buddy still insists he was one of the biggest underachievers ever for his talent.
STAR
Notable Picks - Penny Hardaway, Vin Baker, Allan Houston
1994 - Glenn Robinson
Averaged over 20ppg in a ten year career. Was a heck of a scorer. Had an old man's game as soon as he got in the league. Never really wowed anyone but did make two All Star appearances. Carried the Bucks for a while.
STAR
Notable Picks - Jason Kidd, Grant Hill, Juwan Howard, Yinka Dare
1995 - Joe Smith
Career average of just over 10 points a game. Still in the league and is basically a serviceable backup and has been that way for a while. Hasn't done much for ten years but he is still "playing."
BUST
Notable Picks - Jerry Stackhouse, Rasheed Wallace, Kevin Garnett
1996 - Allen Iverson
The quickest player I've ever seen in person. You don't see too much 5'10" two guards in the league. Basically carried the Sixers to the NBA Finals. Practice speech is one of the best of time. Was one of the best scorers in NBA history. Career ended on a tough note.
STAR
Notable Picks - Marcus Camby, Ray Allen, Kobe Bryant
1997 - Tim Duncan
Is considered one of the best if not the best power forwards of all time. I still would consider him a center but that's me. "The Big Fundamental" has won a bunch of championships and is averaging 20 and 11 for his career. A lot of miles on those legs, almost time to hang it up.
STAR
Notable Picks - Chauncey Billups, Tracy McGrady, Keith Van Horn (not a very deep draft)
1998 - Michael Olowokandi
Things are so bad for "The Candy Man" that he isn't even listed on the NBA website. Wasn't the best situation playing for the Clippers and obviously never lived up to expectations. Was a serviceable big guy for a while. Amazing what being 7 feet tall will do for you
BUST
Notable Picks - Mike Bibby, Vince Carter, Dirk Nowitzki, Paul Pierce
1999 - Elton Brand
Has been a very solid big for many years and is one of the better Dookies to play in the NBA. A couple of injuries have slowed him down in recent years but he was a solid 20 and 10 guy for roughly the first 8 years of his career.
STAR
Notable Picks - Baron Davis, Lamar Odom, Shawn Marion, Jason Terry
2000 - Kenyon Martin
One of the most explosive athletes to play in the NBA. Always seemed angry at the rim. Averaged about 13 and 7 his career. Instead of relying on his jumper, shouldn't stuck around the rim. My answer below will surprise you but that draft was awful
STAR - based on others in draft
Notable Picks - Mike Miller, Jamal Crawford, Mateen Cleaves
2001 - Kwame Brown
A high school kid gets put into a cut throat owners team = not good combo. He couldn't even make a left handed layup when he came out. Averaged over 10 points once in his career. He needed time to develop but was never able to. He is still in the league and started for Jordan's team for part of the year.
BUST
Notable Picks - Tyson Chandler, Pau Gasol, Joe Johnson
2002 - Yao Ming
Clearly changed the game with his massive frame and great touch. Has averaged 19 and 9 for his career. Was the cornerstone for the Rockets franchise. Obviously, has had a tough time with injuries the past couple of years. When you are that big, your body breaks down and it's just a matter of when.
STAR
Notable Picks - Amare Stoudamire, Caron Butler, Nene
2003 - Lebron James
Came in with the most hype of any other player in NBA history and certainly has lived up to expectations, minus the ring. Probably the biggest freak the NBA has ever seen. He's 6'8" and probably close to 270 pounds (he's much more than he's listed). Wants the killer instinct but doesn't quite have it yet.
STAR
Notable Picks - Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, Darko (ha ha)
2004 - Dwight Howard
The second coming of Shaq-fu but not quite as big. Has slowly developed his offensive game but still is a terrible free throw shooter. Won his third straight Defensive Player of the Year award this past season. Still will develop even more around the basket if he is will to put in the time.
STAR
Notable Picks - Emeka Okafor, Ben Gordon, Luol Deng
2005 - Andrew Bogut
Has a very solid player for Milwaukee for his whole career. It's unfortunate that he has had to carry a bad franchise for a long time. Has averaged around 13 and 9 for his career. Had one of the grossest injuries I've seen when he dislocated his elbow a few years back.
STAR - for his team and that draft class, obviously not to level as other guys but draft was ok
Notable Picks - Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Andrew Bynum
2006 - Andrea Bargnani
Was a great fit for Toronto when he was drafted. He is a poor man's Dirk but has been effective over the years. Had a little more freedom once Bosh left. Everyone wanted to make him into a 5 but he is really a faceup 4 without the athleticism.
STAR - I know it's still early but again look at the draft
Notable Picks - LaMarcus Aldridge, Brandon Roy, Rudy Gay
2007 - Greg Oden
Injuries, Injuries, Injuries. He has certainly gotten bit with the injury buy. Over the course of the two years he's played he has average 9 and 7. Not exactly what you are looking for with a #1 pick.
BUST
Notable Picks - Kevin Durant, Joakim Noah, Marc Gasol (2nd round)
2008 - Derrick Rose
Won the MVP this season and has really elevated his game. Has always been a winner but still needs to develop that killer instinct to put his near the top of the NBA. Lebron, Derrick, and fellow 2008 pick Russell Westbrook are on a different level athletically than everyone in the NBA.
STAR
Notable Picks - Russell Westbrook, Kevin Love, Danilo Gallinari
2009 - Blake Griffin
All I have to say is, "WOW." He is a stud athlete and will dunk everything he can. Probably had more big time plays than anyone in the league. Put together a very impressive double-double stretch in his rookie year, this past season. Will need to develop a jumper as he gets older, I'm sure he'll work at it.
STAR - at least right now
Notable Picks - Tyreke Evans, Stephen Curry, Taj Gibson, Ricky Rubio (blah)
2010 - John Wall
Had a very impressive rookie year and probably would've been Rookie of the Year had Blake Griffin not gotten hurt the year before. Averaged 16 points and 8 assists for a crappy Wizards team. Should be interesting to see how he develops over time. Like Griffin, will need to be more consistent with his jumper
STAR - as of now
Notable Picks - Landry Fields (2nd round), not much else as of now (that'll change)
Friday, June 3, 2011
Working for the Weekend
Have a great story for everyone from last night. I headed over to Brit's in Minneapolis to watch the Mavs-Heat game. Apparently, the Department of Defense rented out the whole place from about 6pm-9pm. I was told to give a "pseudo" name at the front in over to get in and hang out with a buddy. He told me they won't get id's or anything. So, I get to the front, a little underdressed, and gave "my name" and the two guys knew that guy. I just kind of stared at them. They asked me where I worked and I said, "downtown St. Paul." They marked me down and I walked in. Quite funny, well at least to me.
After the first quarter those two guys come to my table and started talking to a buddy's buddy and they told him the story and they were fine with it. They said I should've told them I was with this guy but I didn't know or care. On to the game.
It was a great game and it looked like the Heat had full control in the middle of the 4th. They certainly had their celebrations down. It looked like South Beach was going to be on full tilt and then all of a sudden...The Mavs didn't exactly like the way the party had already started. I believe the Mavs then finished the game on a 20-2 run and took the series back to Dallas. Dirk was ridiculous, scoring the last 9 points. Not exactly sure how you let him do that, but that's what great players do. Step up in big moments.
In all reality, the Heat celebrated way too early. The Mavs had an answer and it looked eerily similar to the Mavs game vs. Thunder in the Western Conference Finals. Down 15 with about five minutes to play, and to bounce back and a huge "W."
After the first game, it seemed like everyone jumped on the Heat bandwagon. I thought they would win if they both like they did in Game 1 but they couldn't close the deal. Now it's a series. Three straight games in Dallas. The Heat HAVE to get Game 3 or I think they are in trouble. But...the Heat have had one game in each series that they have given away and it looked like the other team would get back in the series and no team has yet. Should be interesting.
Now we'll go on to the lowly Knicks. In a not surprising move, Donnie Walsh is out at the Knicks' GM. It was a "mutual decision." This certainly doesn't bode well for the Knickerbockers. With James Dolan at the helm, Isiah Thomas could be back in the mix to bring the Knicks back to the cellar dwellers of the Eastern Conference. Donnie Walsh basically got the Knicks out of the train wreck that Isiah left. They are still fighting to become relevant again. What does Mike D'Antoni do now? I'm glad I'm not a Knicks fan.
The guys I was with last night were having a debate. And the question came up, Who is better, John Stockton or Steve Nash? It's a great question and one that is definitely up for debate. Both players have great numbers and neither has a ring. Both played in the West Coast Conference for Santa Clara and Gonzaga and both are white (there I said it, someone had to compare them). Nash was a two time MVP and Stockton is the all time assists and steals leader in the NBA. Here are some stats comparsions
Nash
Points per game: 14.6
Assists per game: 8.5
FG%: 49%
3FG%: 43%
FT%: 90%
Stockton
Points per game: 13.1
Assists per game: 10.5
FG%: 52%
3FG%: 38%
FT%: 83%
So there is the debate. Nash has also had six seasons of shooting over 50% from the floor, 40% from 3, and 90% from 3, which is unreal. I personally like Nash's personality, he has some great videos on youtube that you can find HERE, THERE, OVER THERE, and HERE. Seriously check them out, they are hilarious. Ok, back to the debate. Who is better, Nash or Stockton????? Here is a couple more videos with Nash, chipped tooth and hankerchief.
NASH or STOCKTON?
Here is a great video of a Minnesota baseball player doing the starting lineups. Quite hilarious.
After the first quarter those two guys come to my table and started talking to a buddy's buddy and they told him the story and they were fine with it. They said I should've told them I was with this guy but I didn't know or care. On to the game.
It was a great game and it looked like the Heat had full control in the middle of the 4th. They certainly had their celebrations down. It looked like South Beach was going to be on full tilt and then all of a sudden...The Mavs didn't exactly like the way the party had already started. I believe the Mavs then finished the game on a 20-2 run and took the series back to Dallas. Dirk was ridiculous, scoring the last 9 points. Not exactly sure how you let him do that, but that's what great players do. Step up in big moments.
In all reality, the Heat celebrated way too early. The Mavs had an answer and it looked eerily similar to the Mavs game vs. Thunder in the Western Conference Finals. Down 15 with about five minutes to play, and to bounce back and a huge "W."
After the first game, it seemed like everyone jumped on the Heat bandwagon. I thought they would win if they both like they did in Game 1 but they couldn't close the deal. Now it's a series. Three straight games in Dallas. The Heat HAVE to get Game 3 or I think they are in trouble. But...the Heat have had one game in each series that they have given away and it looked like the other team would get back in the series and no team has yet. Should be interesting.
Now we'll go on to the lowly Knicks. In a not surprising move, Donnie Walsh is out at the Knicks' GM. It was a "mutual decision." This certainly doesn't bode well for the Knickerbockers. With James Dolan at the helm, Isiah Thomas could be back in the mix to bring the Knicks back to the cellar dwellers of the Eastern Conference. Donnie Walsh basically got the Knicks out of the train wreck that Isiah left. They are still fighting to become relevant again. What does Mike D'Antoni do now? I'm glad I'm not a Knicks fan.
The guys I was with last night were having a debate. And the question came up, Who is better, John Stockton or Steve Nash? It's a great question and one that is definitely up for debate. Both players have great numbers and neither has a ring. Both played in the West Coast Conference for Santa Clara and Gonzaga and both are white (there I said it, someone had to compare them). Nash was a two time MVP and Stockton is the all time assists and steals leader in the NBA. Here are some stats comparsions
Nash
Points per game: 14.6
Assists per game: 8.5
FG%: 49%
3FG%: 43%
FT%: 90%
Stockton
Points per game: 13.1
Assists per game: 10.5
FG%: 52%
3FG%: 38%
FT%: 83%
So there is the debate. Nash has also had six seasons of shooting over 50% from the floor, 40% from 3, and 90% from 3, which is unreal. I personally like Nash's personality, he has some great videos on youtube that you can find HERE, THERE, OVER THERE, and HERE. Seriously check them out, they are hilarious. Ok, back to the debate. Who is better, Nash or Stockton????? Here is a couple more videos with Nash, chipped tooth and hankerchief.
NASH or STOCKTON?
Here is a great video of a Minnesota baseball player doing the starting lineups. Quite hilarious.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
It's Thursday, Thursday
Tons of news over the past couple of days and as usual I'm going to throw my two cents in there whether you like it or not.
I don't want to say that the Mavs are done because I still think they are talented but the Heat looked darn good down the stretch of Game 1. Both Lebron and D-Wade really stepped up and made plays in the last couple of minutes. I still can't stand how Bosh is getting all this love. He does NOTHING but get points off of LBJ and D-Wade. He might make a play here or there but in all reality the Heat will NEVER look for him down the stretch in any game.
I was pretty shocked to see Dirk struggle like he did. He didn't look like the same player as he has in the previous series. Obviously, the length and athleticism of Miami caused him some problems. Also, Miami looked to have a great gameplan to attack him. That is the advantage of having a bunch of veteran guys that really know how to play. Udonis Haslem has been in the league for a while and is as tough as they come. He certainly won't back down but he has help.
Interesting to see Lebron cover Jason Terry down the stretch. I can see that strategy and I never thought of it before. And when you think about it, it's a great idea. When Terry goes off is usually when Dallas played well. Take him away with LBJ's strength, size, and athleticism. Very smart move by the Heat coaching staff. It will be interesting to see what adjustments both teams make tonight.
The Shaq Diesel is hanging it up. Definitely one of the biggest characters the league has ever seen. He was a great player as well. Probably the most dominating player in the league during his prime. Not much to do to stop him besides sending him to the line. Not exactly sure where to put him in the ranking of centers in NBA history but I would have to put him behind Mikan, Wilt, Russell, and Kareem, but he certainly should be in the discussion with those guys. These are the things that I'll remember most about the big Shaqtus: great song, great movie, rim rattling dunks, and terrible sneakers. He also made one of my favorite commercials of all time with the best basketball quote ever, "Don't fake the funk on the nasty dunk."
I might actually eat crow with this one but it looks like Ricky Rubio might actually play for the Twolves. I've said all along that he won't ever play here but now there are "sources" saying that he will play next season in the United States. I certainly won't hold my breath until he arrives. David Kahn might have just made this all up to save his job. Maybe he is just smarter then everyone. Maybe he plans on signing Rubio and trading him with the #2 pick to Cleveland to get the Cavs' next 17 first rounders in order for Cleveland to draft both Derrick Williams and Enes Canter (they won't need Kyrie Irving if they have Rubio, right?)
On the surprise meter, Daisuke is out for the year and is going to have Tommy John surgery. You don't wish injury on anyone but you could see this one coming from a mile away. His "time" is up and he is basically ineffective for Boston. Can anyone name a single Japanese pitcher that has had a long successful career? Hideo Nomo is as close as you come and he was very average after his first couple of years.
I certainly don't see what's the deal with Terrelle Pryor driving around in 8 different cars over his three years at THE Ohio State University. I think I drove a couple different cars when I was in college, a beautiful two toned (maroon and grey) Ford Aerostar as well as my favorite car of all time in the Oldsmobile Achieva. I got pick time hookups on both cars. The only difference between myself and Pryor is that I was (and still is) a great driver.
Our new athletic website is up and running now. If you want to look at my dashingly good looking picture, go right ahead. My hairline looks absolutely fantastic in it as well. The clippers might make some adjustments to that in the near future. Bald and beautiful.
I don't want to say that the Mavs are done because I still think they are talented but the Heat looked darn good down the stretch of Game 1. Both Lebron and D-Wade really stepped up and made plays in the last couple of minutes. I still can't stand how Bosh is getting all this love. He does NOTHING but get points off of LBJ and D-Wade. He might make a play here or there but in all reality the Heat will NEVER look for him down the stretch in any game.
I was pretty shocked to see Dirk struggle like he did. He didn't look like the same player as he has in the previous series. Obviously, the length and athleticism of Miami caused him some problems. Also, Miami looked to have a great gameplan to attack him. That is the advantage of having a bunch of veteran guys that really know how to play. Udonis Haslem has been in the league for a while and is as tough as they come. He certainly won't back down but he has help.
Interesting to see Lebron cover Jason Terry down the stretch. I can see that strategy and I never thought of it before. And when you think about it, it's a great idea. When Terry goes off is usually when Dallas played well. Take him away with LBJ's strength, size, and athleticism. Very smart move by the Heat coaching staff. It will be interesting to see what adjustments both teams make tonight.
The Shaq Diesel is hanging it up. Definitely one of the biggest characters the league has ever seen. He was a great player as well. Probably the most dominating player in the league during his prime. Not much to do to stop him besides sending him to the line. Not exactly sure where to put him in the ranking of centers in NBA history but I would have to put him behind Mikan, Wilt, Russell, and Kareem, but he certainly should be in the discussion with those guys. These are the things that I'll remember most about the big Shaqtus: great song, great movie, rim rattling dunks, and terrible sneakers. He also made one of my favorite commercials of all time with the best basketball quote ever, "Don't fake the funk on the nasty dunk."
I might actually eat crow with this one but it looks like Ricky Rubio might actually play for the Twolves. I've said all along that he won't ever play here but now there are "sources" saying that he will play next season in the United States. I certainly won't hold my breath until he arrives. David Kahn might have just made this all up to save his job. Maybe he is just smarter then everyone. Maybe he plans on signing Rubio and trading him with the #2 pick to Cleveland to get the Cavs' next 17 first rounders in order for Cleveland to draft both Derrick Williams and Enes Canter (they won't need Kyrie Irving if they have Rubio, right?)
On the surprise meter, Daisuke is out for the year and is going to have Tommy John surgery. You don't wish injury on anyone but you could see this one coming from a mile away. His "time" is up and he is basically ineffective for Boston. Can anyone name a single Japanese pitcher that has had a long successful career? Hideo Nomo is as close as you come and he was very average after his first couple of years.
I certainly don't see what's the deal with Terrelle Pryor driving around in 8 different cars over his three years at THE Ohio State University. I think I drove a couple different cars when I was in college, a beautiful two toned (maroon and grey) Ford Aerostar as well as my favorite car of all time in the Oldsmobile Achieva. I got pick time hookups on both cars. The only difference between myself and Pryor is that I was (and still is) a great driver.
Our new athletic website is up and running now. If you want to look at my dashingly good looking picture, go right ahead. My hairline looks absolutely fantastic in it as well. The clippers might make some adjustments to that in the near future. Bald and beautiful.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)