2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #16 Denver Nuggets

Denver Nuggets
09-10 Record 53-29 Lost 4-2 to Utah in Round 1
Coach George Karl
Off Season Movement
Additions: Anthony Carter, Al Harrington, Shelden Williams
Draft: None
Losses: Malik Allen, Joey Graham, Linas Klezia, Johan Petro, Brian Butch , Coby Karl
Projected Rotation
C Nene
PF Kenyon Martin
SF Carmelo Anthony
SG JR Smith
PG Chauncey Billups
F Al Harrington
F Chris Anderson
G Ty Lawson
G Arron Affalo
C Melvin Ely
G Anthony Carter
F Renaldo Balkman
F Shelden Williams
C Courtney Sims
F Gary Forbes
Theres a major storm brewing over the Rocky Mountains and it isn't going to be pretty when its all said and done. The next big free agent is Denver super star Carmelo Anthony. Anthony's contract is up at the end of the season and he has yet to sign an extension. Rumors are swirling about Anthony's future making it impossible to make any predictions on the Nuggets season. My take on it all is that Melo is good as gone. Whether it is in training c amp, at the trade deadline, or next summer , Carmelo is leaving the Mile High City. The Nuggets would be wise to trade him right away if they don't feel like he will sign an extension. Anthony is one of the top 5 players in the league and any franchise could not afford to let a player of that caliber walk away for nothing. (See Cleveland ) The rest of the Nuggets team remains mostly intact from last seasons 53 win team. Veteran Point Guard Chauncey Billups is still leading the way for the Nuggets. Shooting Guard J.R. Smith is primed to see an increase in production should Anthony get traded. Kenyon Martin and Nene still anchor the Nuggets front court. New acquisition Al Harrington looks to step into the role of 6th man for this team. The rest of the bench consists ofg Chris Anderson, Ty Lawson, Arron Affalo, Melvin Ely, Anthony Carter, and Renaldo Balkman. The Nuggets should remain a serious playoff contender as long as #15 remains in town. Should he get shipped out of town then the future is really unpredictable for the Nuggets. Nuggets fans should be very nervous over the course of this season.


Nuggets fan? Check out http://www.denverstiffs.com/

this picture from Nuggets media day sums it all up

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #17 Memphis Grizzlies

Memphis Grizzlies
09-10 Record: 40-42
Coach: Lionel Hollins
Off Season Moves
Additions: Tony Allen, Acie Law, Damien Wilkins
Draft: Xavier Henry, Grevis Vasquez
Losses: Ronnie Brewer, Marcus Williams
Projected Rotation
C Marc Gasol
PF Zach Randolph
SF Rudy Gay
SG OJ Mayo
PG Mike Conley
G Tony Allen
F Darrell Arthur
F Sam Young
G Xavier Henry
C Hasheem Thabeet
F DeMarre Carroll
G Grevis Vasquez
F Kenny Thomas
F Damien Wilkins
C Hamed Haddai
The Grizzlies surprised everyone by improving to 40-42 and finishing just a few games shy of the playoffs in the brutal Western Conference. The chemistry experiment of Rudy Gay, OJ Mayo, and Zach Randolph defied all basketball logic and worked to perfection actually if it wasn't for a horrid 1-8 start during the short lived Allen Iverson in Memphis the Grizzlies might have actually broken through and made the playoffs. So to build on that the Grizzlies resigned Rudy Gay to a mind boggling 5 year 82 million dollar contract extension in the summer. The Grizzlies hope that the trio of Gay, Mayo, and Randolph is enough to continue the growth in Memphis. Marc Gasol is the man in the middle and is one of the most under rated big men in the league. Point guard Mike Conley is in a contract year and has yet to deliver on his point guard of the future title hoisted on him after he was selected #4 overall in 2007. The Grizzlies also signed Celtics key reserve and defensive stopper Tony Allen. The bench led by Allen also includes Darrell Arthur, Sam Young, Xavier Henry, Hasheem Thabeet, DeMarre Carroll, and Grevis Vasquez. The Grizzlies will have a tougher time this season as now everyone knows they are a legit playoff contender. I expect a drop off because I just don't see Zach Randolph duplicating his All Star season from a year ago.


Grizzlies fan? Check out http://www.straightouttavancouver.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #18 Los Angeles Clippers

Los Angels Clippers
09-10 Record: 29-53
Coach: Vinny Del Negro
Off Season Moves
Additions: Rasaul Butler, Jarron Collins, Brian Cook, Randy Foye, Ryan Gomes, Craig Smith
Draft: Al-Farouq Aminu Eric Bledsoe Willie Warren
Losses: Steve Blake, Bobby Brown, Mardy Collins, Drew Gooden, Steve Novak, Travis Outlaw
　
Projected Rotation
C Chris Kaman
PF Blake Griffin
SF Rasaul Butler
SG Eric Gordon
PG Baron Davis
F Ryan Gomes
G Randy Foye
G Eric Bledsoe
F Al-Farouq Aminu
C DeAndre Jordan
C Jarron Collins
F Brian Cook
F Craig Smith
G Willie Warren
C Jake Voskhul
The Clippers are the long running joke of the NBA. Since moving to Los Angeles in the 1984-85 season the Clippers have only had 3 seasons at .500 or better. They have only made the playoffs 4 times and were eliminated in the first round 3 of those times. Times could be changing in Los Angeles this season. The Clippers have meticulously stockpiled a stable of young talent led by 2009 #1 overall draft pick Blake Griffin the Clippers ,at least on paper, appear ready for a breakout season in 2010-11. Baron Davis is back healthy and ready to provide some veteran leadership to this talented but very young Clipper squad. Shooting Guard Eric Gordon is fresh off a gold medal winning performance with the USA National Team in the world championships. Center Chris Kaman is an All Star caliber center. Veteran Rasaul Butler brought in from New Orleans will stake claim to the starting small forward spot. The bench is loaded with young talent led by Randy Foye, Eric Bledsoe, Al-Faroug Aminu, and DeAndre Jordan. The Clippers hired former Bulls coach Vinny Del Negro to take over the coaching reigns left over by much maligned Mike Dunleavy. Blake Griffin missed the entire season in 09-10 with a knee injury. Griffin ,if healthy, expects to have a big impact on the Clippers. If they can avoid their usual terrible luck the Clippers could challenge for the 8th playoff spot out west. Most likely they will be back in the lottery as they appear to be about a year or two away from being real playoff contenders.


Clippers fan? Check out http://www.clipsnation.com
　

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #19 Charlotte Bobcats

Charlotte Bobcats
09-10 Records: 44-38 Lost in first round to Orlando
Coach: Larry Brown 3rd year with Charlotte
Off Season Moves
Additions: Kwame Brown, Sherron Collins, Javaris Crittenton, Shaun Livingston, Dominic McGuire, Matt Carroll, Eduardo Najera
Draft: None
Losses: Theo Ratliff, Raymond Felton, Stephen Graham, Alexis Ajinca, Tyson Chandler, Erick Dampier
　
Projected Rotation
C DeSagana Diop
PF Tyrus Thomas
SF Gerald Wallace
SG Stephen Jackson
PG DJ Augustin
F Boris Diaw
G Gerald Henderson
C Nazr Mohammed
F Kwame Brown
G Matt Carroll
G Javaris Crittenton
F Eduardo Najera
F Dominic McGuire
G Sherron Collins
Last season the Bobcats made franchise history by making the playoffs. Their playoff stint didn't last long as they were swept by the Orlando Magic. The Bobcats are hoping to build on that experience and return to the post season. They will once again be lead by the tandem of Gerald Wallace and Stephen Jackson. After acquiring Jackson early last season the Bobcats took off as Jackson played like he had a point to prove after a messy divorce in Golden State. DJ Augustin will be the full time starting point guard with Raymond Felton fleeing for the big stage of Madison Square Garden in the Big Apple. Tyrus Thomas will be the starting power forward and DeSagana Diop will be the starting 5 man taking over for Erick Dampier. Boris Diaw figures to be the Bobcats 6th man . Diaw has been the subject of trade rumors all off season and it remains to be seen how long he remains in Charlotte. Last years lottery pick Gerald Henderson will be another key member on the bench. The rest of the unit includes Nazr Mohammed, Kwame Brown, Matt Carroll, Javaris Crittenton, Shaun Livingston, and Eduardo Najera. The Bobcats should still be a contender for the playoffs in the Eastern Conference but Owner Michael Jordan still has some work to do as they will likely be one and done if they get there.

Bobcats fan? Check out http://www.rufusonfire.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #20 New Orleans Hornets

New Orleans Hornets
09-10 Record: 37-45
Coach: Monty Williams 1st year with New Orleans
　
Off Season Moves
Additions: Joe Alexander , Mustafa Shakur, Marco Belinelli, Trevor Ariza, Willie Green
Draft: Quincy Pondexter
Losses: Sean Marks, James Posey, Darren Collison, Morris Peterson, Julian Wright
Projected Rotation
C Emeka Okafor
PF David West
SF Trevor Ariza
SG Marcus Thornton
PG Chris Paul
F Peja Stojakovic
G Willie Green
G Marco Belinelli
C Jason Smith
G Jannero Pargo
F Quincey Pondexter
F Joe Alexander
C Aaron Gray
F Pops Mensah Bonsu
G DJ Strawberry
Injuries to All League point guard Chris Paul led to a major dip in wins in 09-10. Chris Paul is back and healthy which prompted the Hornets to trade Paul's backup rookie sensation Darren Collison to Indiana in the 4 team deal that landed them Trevor Arizia. In Ariza the Hornets pick up a scoring wing that should mesh nicely with Paul. At the 2 guard spot hometown kid 2nd year Marcus Thornton is in line for the spot. Thornton, a second round pick in last years draft, had a solid rookie season and is hoping to be able to build off of that. David West battled injuries like Paul last year and that and he hopes to be healthy and regain his form of 2008 when the Hornets were one of the best teams out West. At Center will be Emeka Okafor. The former #2 overall pick out of UConn has been mostly a disappointment. Despite averaging a career double double he has yet to become the dominant inside force he was for the 2004 National Champion Huskies. Okafor is in a contract year and has a lot to prove. For Emeka its likely put up or get shipped out at the trade deadline. The bench for the Hornets is relatively thin. The unit will be led by veteran sharp shooter Peja Stojakovic. Stojakovic has been battling injuries as he enters the latter days of his career but, if he stays healthy he gives the Hornets some nice offense off the bench. The rest of the bench is consisted of Willie Green, Marco Belinelli, Jason Smith, Quincy Pondexter, and Joe Alexander. The biggest story coming out of the Crescent City is the future of Chris Paul. If the Hornets fail to show a commitment to winning they risk losing their franchise in Chris Paul. A healthy Chris Paul and David West could lead the Hornets back into playoff contention in the West but how long will Paul be a Hornet? The answer to this question will be a huge factor in the future of this franchise.


Hornets fan? Check out http://www.atthehive.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #21 Indiana Pacers

Indiana Pacers
09-10 Record: 32-50
Coach Jim O'Brien 4th year with Indiana
Off Season Movement
Additions: Darren Collison, James Posey
Draft: Paul George, Lance Stephenson, Magnum Rolle
Losses: Earl Watson, Troy Murphy
　
Projected Rotation
C Roy Hibbert
PF Josh McRoberts
SF Danny Granger
SG Brandon Rush
PG Darren Collison
F James Posey
G Mike Dunleavy
G TJ Ford
F Jeff Foster
G Dahntay Jones
G Paul George
G AJ Price
F Tyler Hansbrough
C Solomon Jones
G Lance Stephenson
　
The once proud Pacers franchise has been going through one of their roughest patches since joining the NBA back in the 70's over the past 5 seasons. The infamous brawl at the palace led to the fall of a at the time legit championship contender. Over the past 5 years the Pacers have undergone a serious make over on and off the court that has had them in the lottery 4 consecutive seasons culminating with their first 50 loss season in 21 seasons. Finally there seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel. After having a pretty good off season coupled with a boat load of bad contracts set to come off the books after this season for the first time in years there is a little bit of optimism surrounding the Pacers. The trade for rookie sensation point guard Darren Collison is big reason for that small slimmer of hope. Adding Collison makes it easier for the Pacers to deal much maligned point guard TJ Ford. Ford continuous clashes with O'Brien and lack of production on the court have had their toll on the team and the fan base. Mike Dunleavy, Jeff Foster, and Ford all have huge contracts set to come off the books this summer which makes them intriguing trade bait for the up and coming Pacers. Dunleavy is finally healthy for the first time in 2 years after knee surgery and if he can return to form the Pacers may be able to trade him for some more young pieces. Brandon Rush is entering his 3rd season and has yet to really prove he is worthy of a starting spot in the league and this is likely his last chance to finally take the starting 2 guard spot for good. Center Roy Hibbert was a bright spot last season as he improved a big deal in averaging 11.7 ppg and 5.7 rpg but Hibbert came on strong at the end of the year giving Pacers fans hope that they finally have a legitimate big man. The power forward spot is wide open and also the glaring weakness word out of Pacers camp is that Carmel, IN native and former Dukie Josh McRoberts has staked the early claim to it. Last years lottery pick Tyler Hansbrough could take the spot even though he missed basically his entire rookie season with a bad case of vertigo. Unbelievably we have came this far without mentioning the Pacers go to guy All Star Danny Granger. Granger was a member of the world championship team this summer and Pacers fan the experience rubs off on his regular season play. In the trade for Collison the Pacers also picked up veteran swing man James Posey. Posey became famous for being a glue guy on the Celtics 2008 championship's bench. Posey should bring some veteran leadership that has been lacking in Indiana. The rest of the bench will likely be rounded out by Dahntay Jones, AJ Price, Solomon Jones, and Lance Stephenson. If the Pacers are able to move some of their expiring contracts they could make room for the third draft pick big man Magnum Rolle from Louisiana Tech. This is a make or break year for the Larry Bird and Jim O'Brien era in Indiana. Pacers fans have grown restless with the lack of competitiveness and with the franchise in serious danger of going under financially it would go a long way for the Pacers to give fans even the slightest glimmer of hope. This years Pacer's team could compete for a playoff spot in the East if they stay healthy but I expect them to be back in the lottery for a fifth straight year setting up a crucial summer of 2011 for this franchise.
　
　
Pacers fan? Check out http://www.indycornrows.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #22 Golden State Warriors

Golden State Warriors
09-10 Record: 26-56
Coach : Keith Smart 1st year with Golden State
Off Season Moves:
Additions: Louis Admunson, Jeremy Lin, Rodney Carney, Charlie Bell, Dan Gadzuric, David Lee
Draft: Ekpe Udoh
Losses: Raja Bell, Anthony Tolliver, Kelenna Azubukie, Corey Maggette, Antony Morrow, Anthony Randolph, Ronny Turiaf, C.J. Watson
　
Projected Rotation
C Andris Biedrins
PF David Lee
SF Dorrell Wright
SG Monta Ellis
PG Stephen Curry
F Vladimir Radmonovic
F Louis Admunson
C Dan Gadzuric
G Charlie Bell
F Rodney Carney
G Aaron Miles
F Ekpe Udoh
F Brendan Wright
F Jeff Adrien
G Jeremy Lin
The Warriors have been one of the most exciting teams to watch over the past few seasons. Don Nelsons run and gun style has had the Warriors near the top in scoring nearly every year. The problem has been that they also have been near the top in points allowed year in and year out. Just last week the Warriors fired Don Nelson and promoted IU legend Keith Smart to head coach. The timing of the move is strange with training camp being just a week away at the time but in the long run the move makes sense. Nelson's teams although exciting almost always disappoint and flame out in the post season. This Warriors team should continue to fill it up with the backcourt of Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry. Miami Heat castoff Dorrell Wright is reported to have taken claim to the starting small forward spot. Wright was always a nice player off the bench for the Heat and it will be interesting to see how his game develops with a legit opportunity at some playing time. The Warriors big splash this off season came when they orchrstrated a sign and trade deal with New York to bring in All Star David Lee. Center Andris Biedrins remains in town and looks to keep his starting job at the Center position. The Warriors bench is the big question mark of their team. They are long on potential but lean on proven results. Vladimir Radmonovic, Louis Admunson, Dan Gadzuric, Charlie Bell, and Rodney Carney will need to play big for the Warriors to even dream about sniffing the playoffs in the loaded Western Conference. Rookie Ekpe Udoh will likely play behind David Lee given him much needed time to develop his game. The shot blocking machine from Baylor reminds me of a slighty more polished offensively Hasheem Thabeet. Former lottery pick forward Brendan Wright needs to deliver on his potential or risk looking for a job next summer. Overall the Warriors are in for more of the same , a ton of points with little wins to show for it.
　
Warriors fan? Check out http://www.goldenstateofmind.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #23 New Jersey Nets

New Jersey Nets
09-10 Record: 12-70
Coach: Avery Johnson First year with New Jersey
Off season Moves:
Additions: Jordan Farmar, Stephen Graham, Travis Outlaw, Johan Petro, Joe Smith, Anthony Morrow, Troy Murphy
Drafted: Derrick Favors, Damion James
Losses: Tony Battie, Courtney Lee, Keyon Dooling, Sean May
Projected Rotation
C Brook Lopez
PF Troy Murphy
SF Travis Outlaw
SG Anthony Morrow
PG Devin Harris
F Derrick Favors
G Jordan Farmar
F Terrance Williams
F Quinton Ross
F Stephen Graham
C Johan Petro
PF Joe Smith
G Eddie Gill
F Kris Humphries
C Brian Zoubek
　
When Russian Billionaire Mikhali Prokorov purchased the Nets in September 2009 most NBA fans expected the Nets to be a huge player in the 2010 off season. For the most part the Nets swung and missed with the big name free agents this summer but there is plenty of room for optimism in Jersey. The Nets should be much improved from their puzzling 12-70 record last season. Personally I never understood how they were so bad considering the talent they had in Jersey. With their poor record the Nets gained the 3rd pick in the draft and selected Georgia Tech freshman forward Derrick Favors. Having struck out on the big fish the Nets used their money wisely and added Anthony Morrow and Travis Outlaw . The Nets also acquired Troy Murphy in a big 4 team deal in which Courtney Lee wound up in Houston. Guard Devin Harris remains the go to guy of this team. The former All Star figures to continue to be involved in heavy trade speculation thanks to the pick up of Laker reserve Jordan Farmar. New acquisitions Anthony Morrow and Travis Outlaw will man the wing spots for new head coach Avery Johnson. Center Brook Lopez returns and looks to improve on his breakout 09-10 campaign. Troy Murphy gives the Nets an opportunity to bring along Favors slowly with little pressure on the rookie to produce right away. The bench will consist of Favors, Farmar, Quinton Ross, Terrance Williams, Stephen Graham, Johan Petro, and veteran Joe Smith. The Nets should have a huge turnaround on last seasons awful 12 win season. They may even be able to contend for the 8th playoff spot in the improving but not quite all the way there yet Eastern Conference. Recently they have been linked to rumors in a blockbuster deal that would bring Denver Nuggets superstar Carmelo Anthony to town. If that were to happen the Nets instantly become serious playoff contenders over night but for now they have to settle for battling it out for the final spot in the playoffs. With the hiring of one of the best coaches in the league in Avery Johnson and a billionaire owner hell bent on winning and willing to pay whatever it takes, the Nets are on the verge of becoming title contenders in the next few seasons.


Nets fan? Check out http://www.netsdaily.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #24 Washington Wizards

Washington Wizards
09-10 Record: 26-56
Coach: Flip Saunders 2nd year with Washington
Off Season Movement
Additions: Hilton Armstrong, Sean Marks, Mardy Collins, Adam Morrison, Kirk Hinrich
Draft: John Wall, Kevin Seraphin, Trevor Booker, Hamady N'diaye
Losses: Earl Boykins, Javaris Crittenton, Randy Foye, Shaun Livingston, Mike Miller, James Singleton
　
Projected Rotation
C JaVale McGee
PF Andray Blatche
SF Josh Howard
SG Gilbert Arenas
PG John Wall
F Al Thornton
G Kirk Hinrich
G Nick Young
F Yi Jianlian
C Hilton Armstrong
F Trevor Booker
C Hamady N'diaye
F Cartier Martin
F Adam Morrison
G Lester Hudson
　
2009-10 was a season to forget on and off the court for the Washington Wizards. The Gilbert Arenas locker room gun scandal led to him being suspended for most of the season certainly hampered the Wizards efforts to return to the playoffs. The severe drop off in wins led to a near fire sale when the Wizards traded Caron Butler, Antwan Jamison, and Brendan Haywood all who were keys players on the Wizards playoff squads from the past few years that always seemed to run into LeBron. The new era did get a little glimmer of hope when the Wizards won the draft lottery and selected Kentucky phenom point guard John Wall with the first overall selection. Arenas returns to the team with a lot to prove and the backcourt of Wall and Arenas could turn out to prove this ranking to be a joke. Starting at the small forward is longtime Maverick Josh Howard. The Wizards acquired Howard in the Caron Butler trade at the trade deadline. Howard provides the Wizards with a legitimate scoring threat on the wing. The Wizards front court will be manned by two promising although inexperienced big men in forward Andray Blatche and JaVale McGee. Blatche came on strong at the end of 09-10 and hopes to build off that finish in 10-11. JaVale McGee was the story of the Team USA training camp for the FIBA World Basketball Championships. Experts were raving about the 3rd year pro from Nevada and many expect his strong play to transfer over into the 2010-11 season. The bench is headed by guards Kirk Hinrich, Nick Young and forward Yi Jianlian. The Wizards are an intriguing team and could prove me way wrong with the #24 ranking, much of that depends on the play of McGee and Blatche. If the Wizards do struggle however Gilbert Arenas could be wearing a different uniform come March.
Wizards fan? Check out http://www.bulletsforever.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #25 Sacramento Kings

Sacramento Kings
09-10 Record: 25-57
Coach: Paul Westphal 2nd year with Sacramento
Off Season Moves
Additions: Pooh Jeter Antonie Wright Donald Sloan Samuel Dalembart Darnell Jackson
Draft: DeMarcus Cosuins Hassan Whiteside
Losses: Dominic McGuire Sean May Spencer Hawes Andres Nocioni Jon Brockman
Projected Rotation
C Samuel Dalembart
PF DeMarcus Cousins
SF Omri Casspi
SG Francisco Garcia
PG Tyreke Evans
G Beno Udrih
F Donte Greene
F Antoine Wright
C Hassan Whiteside
F Carl Landry
F Jason Thompson
G JR Giddens
G Luther Head
F Darnell Jackson
F Marcus Landry
　
The days of the Kings challenging the Lakers for Western Conference supremacy are long gone. These days Sacramento is rebuilding behind 09-10 Rookie of the Year Tyreke Evans and '10 lottery pick DeMarcus Cousins. The Kings appear to be in for another long season in 10-11. They have done a nice job drafting some young talent but in the tough Western Conference these young Kings have a long way to go to get back to the playoffs. Israeli superstar Omri Casspi will be starting at small forward this year and is a big part of the young nucleus of this team. They traded for big man Samuel Dalembart from Philadelphia to take up to the middle. The starting 2 guard is Francisco Garcia former University of Louisville. Veteran Beno Udrih will lead an inexperienced bench unit along with F Antoine Wright, F Donte Greene, C Hassan Whiteside, F Carl Landry, F Jason Thompson, and G J.R. Giddens. The Kings are not going to be the lottery anytime soon but if they continue their trend of home run draft picks they will be back contending for playoff spots in no time.

Kings fan? Check out http://www.sactownroyalty.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #26 Philadelphia 76ers

Philadelphia 76ers
09-10 Record:  27-55
Coach: Doug Collins   1st year with Philadelphia

Off season Moves
Additions:  Tony Battie Spencer Hawes Andres Nocioni

Draft: Evan Turner

Players Lost: Rodney Carney Francisco Elson Samuel Dalembart

Projected Rotation
C Spencer Hawes
PF Elton Brand
SF Thaddeus Young
SG Andre Iguodola
PG Jrue Holliday
F   Mareese Spreights
G  Evan Turner
G  Louis Williams
F   Andres Nocioni
C   Tony Battie
F   Darius Songalia
G   Chris Quinn
F   Jason Kapono
F   Craig Brackins
G   Jodie Meeks


The Sixers brought in experienced coach Doug Collins to try to rescue the Sixers from their collapse from grace. Just a couple seasons ago the Sixers were in the playoffs and pushed the soon to be Eastern Conference Champions to the limit in the first round. The addition of Elton Brand hasn't worked out as Brands style of play didn't fit the Sixers up tempo game under Eddie Jordan. Andre Iguodola  remains the go to guy on this Sixers team. Iggy has recently became the center of trade rumors involving Carmelo Anthony so that something to keep your eye on. Jrue Holliday is looking to build off a solid rookie season. and will be the starting point guard.  Young wings Thaddeus Young and Mareese Spreights look to take the next step and deliver on their potential that got them drafted. The Sixers used the second overall pick on Ohio State guard Evan Turner. Turner will be able to back up Igoudola and develop with less pressure than most #2 overall selections. The Sixers acquired Center Spencer Hawes from Sacramento and he should get a shot at the starting Center spot. The first year of the Doug Collins looks to be a long one. Although they should be more competitive they  need Elton Brand to stay healthy and return to the form of when he was a Clipper to maybe sneak up into the 8th playoff spot. Its not crazy to be optimistic if your a Philly fan, I mean they do play in the East.



Sixers fan?  Check out http://www.libertyballers.com

2010-11 NBA PREVIEWS #27 Detroit Pistons

Detroit Pistons
09-10 Record 27-55
Coach  John Kuester 2nd year with Detroit

Offseason Moves

Additions:  Tracy McGrady

Drafted  Greg Monroe  Terico White

Losses: Kwame Brown


Projected Rotation
C Ben Wallace
PF Charlie Villanueva
SF Tayshaun Prince
SG Ben Gordon
PG Rodney Stuckey
G Rip Hamilton
G Tracy McGrady
C Greg Monroe
F  Jason Maxiell
F  Austin Daye
G Will Bynum
C Chris Wilcox
F  Jonas Jerebeko
F Dajuan Summers
G Terico White

The Pistons missed the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade last season when they slipped to an abysmal 27-55 clip. Last offseason the Pistons made some perplexing moves in throwing big money at former UConn Huskies Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva. The experiment was a major flop in year one as a crowded stable of guards led to not many wins on the floor. Rip Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince remain from the Pistons contending teams of the past although both are in trade rumors every day. This offseason the Pistons signed Tracy McGrady to a one year deal. As if the Pistons didn't have enough guards adding McGrady was one of the most puzzling moves by any team this offseason. In the draft the Pistons selected Georgetown big man Greg Monroe 7th overall. Rodney Stuckey will likely earn the nod to start at the point in the crowded backcourt. Second year forward Austin Daye showed flashes of huge potential and may give Joe Dumars enough confidence to trade Tayshaun Prince for some much needed help on the boards. The Pistons appear to be in for a long season in 2010-11. I wouldn't be suprised to see Rip and Tayshaun wearing different uni's come March. The Lottery awaits for this Pistons squad.


Pistons fan?  Check out http://www.detroitbadboys.com

2010 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #28 MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES

Minnesota Timberwolves
09-10 Record: 15-67
Coach  Kurt Rambis 2nd year with Minnesota

Off season Movement
Additions: Luke Ridnour Anthony Tolliver Michael Beasley Sebastain Telfair Martell Webster

Draft: Wesley Johnson Lazar Hayward Nikola Pekovic

Losses:  Nathan Jawai Oleksey Pecherov Ryan Hollins Al Jefferson Ramon Sessions Damien Wilkins


Projected Rotation
C Kevin Love
PF Michael Beasley
SF Corey Brewer
SG Martell Webster
PG Johnny Flynn
G  Wayne Ellington
F   Darko Milicic
F   Wesley Johnson
G  Luke Ridnour
C  Kosta Kofus
G  Sebastain Telfair
F   Lazar Hayward
F   Anthony Tolliver
F   Nikola Pekovic



The rebuilding effort continues in the Twin Cities in 2010-11. Much lambasted General Manager David Kahn continues to cripple those efforts with puzzling moves. The team traded their best player Al Jefferson for basically nothing but cap space. They actually may have gotten it correct with their first round draft pick Syracuse Small Forward Wesley Johnson. Johnson joins a young squad intent on bringing a winner back to Minneapolis. Kevin Love becomes the face of this team this season and Wolves fans can only hope his recent gold medal winning stint with the USA National Team at the FIBA World Championships rubs off on him and the young fella takes the next step forward in his promising career. Last years lottery pick Johnny Flynn will be starting at the point with veteran Luke Ridnour pushing for his spot. At the 2 guard recently acquired Martell Webster comes over for Portland to get a starting role. Webster was a key bench player for a deep Blazers team. Former lottery pick Wayne Ellington will be Websters backup. Continuing the theme of former lottery picks with the Wolves former Florida Gator Corey Brewer looks to start at the small forward position and fans hope he takes the leap forward most 3rd year pro's do. Rookie Wesley Johnson will back him up. Power Forward spot will go to former #2 pick and Miami cast off Michael Beasley. Beasley has yet to prove worthy of the #2 pick and the Heat just flat out dumped him for nothing but cap space in their quest to create a super team with Wade/ LeBron/ and Bosh.
Backing him up ,ironically, is former #2 draft pick Darko Milicic. Darko earned a 4 year 20 million dollar contract extension this offseason. I guess the term "earned" is being used very liberally in this case. Kevin Love will start at Center . Love is probably more of a natural power forward but will have to man the 5 spot in this lineup. Kosta Kofus will back up Love. The Timberwolves are loaded with former lottery picks that are high on potential and lean on experience. Don't be suprised to see the Wolves go through more growing pains especially in the tough Northwest Division.  Better days could be ahead for the Wolves with the right moves by David Kahn but who are we kidding thats a lot to ask .

Wolves fan? Check out  http://www.caniushoopus.com

2010-11 Team Previews #29 Cleveland Cavilers

Cleveland Cavaliers
09-10 Record: 61-21
Coach: Byron Scott   first year with Cleveland

Off season Moves
Additions: Joey Graham Ryan Hollins Ramon Sessions

Drafted: Christian Eyenga

Loses: LeBron James, Zydrunas Illgauskus, Shaquille O'Neal, Sebastain Telfair, Delonte West

Projected Rotation
C Anderson Varejao
PF Antawn Jamison
SF Jamario Moon
SG Anthony Parker
PG Mo Williams
F  JJ Hickson
G Ramon Sessions
G Bobbie Gibson
F  Leon Powe
F  Joey Graham
F  Jawad Williams
C Ryan Hollins
Last 3 Roster Spots
F  Danny Green
F Christian Eyenga
F Samardo Samuels

July 8th 2010 is a date that will never be forgotten in the Cleveland Sports history. On National television Cleveland's home town star LeBron James  stuck a dagger in the back of his hometown by announcing he was leaving the Cavs for Miami. While I'm on this subject I want to make one thing clear, LeBron is free to sign with whoever he wants that's not the issue. The issue is the fact he went on national TV with an hour long special to announce it in one of the most bizarre egotistical PR moves I've ever seen. Okay enough about LeBron. Your welcome Cleveland fans. On that night the Cavs immediately fell from championship contender to possible lottery winner.  The Cavs will be lead by veteran and former All Star Antawn Jamison. Mo Williams is still running the point for new head coach Byron Scott. Anderson Varejao and JJ Hickson figure to lead the Cavs on the boards and guards Ramon Sessions and Bobbie Gibson give the Cavs depth at the point. Anthony Parker is expected to be the starting 2 guard. Jamario Moon will be the one with the task of taking LeBron's spot in the line up. Although the increased playing time should increase his production he won't come close to the production of James. You can't replace a once in a generation talent like LeBron James over night and it should be a long season in Cleveland. But don't jump into Lake Erie fans there will be better days ahead.


Cavs fan?  Check out http://www.fearthesword.com

NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #30 TORONTO RAPTORS

Toronto Raptors 
09-10 Record:  40-42
Coach: Jay Triano 3rd season with the Raptors
Offseason Moves:
Additions :  Linas Kleiza Amir Johnson David Andersen Leandro Barbosa Julian Wright

Drafted:  Ed Davis and Solomon Alabi

Loses : Marco Belinelli Chris Bosh Hedo Turkoglu


Projected Rotation:
C Ed Davis
PF Andrea Bargnani
SF DerMar Derozan
SG Leandro Barbosa
PG Jose Calderon
Bench
G Jarret Jack
F Julian Wright
F Linas Klezia
C Solomon Alabi
G Marcus Banks
F Amir Johnson
G Sonny Weems
Last 3 Roster Spots
C David Andersen
F Reggie Evans
F Ronald Dupree


The Raptors have spent the last few seasons as contenders for the playoffs in the East. Those aspirations went out the door when All Star and face of the franchise Chris Bosh left Toronto for Miami to team up with LeBron and D Wade. To make matters worse Hedo Turkoglu threw a fit and got himself traded to Phoenix.  The Raptors are left to pick up the pieces and try to rebuild. Leading the way for Toronto will be All Star caliber point guard Jose Calderon. Calderon has been the subject of many trade rumors this off season and provides the Raptors a little bit of trade bait for a contender. Wing DerMar Derozan should have a breakout year this year. Derozan will be given all the opportunities in the world to live up to expectations that being a lottery pick brings with it. Andrea Bargnani remains in town and for this team to contend for the playoffs he will have to play up to the expectations becoming of a former #1 overall draft pick.  Point Guard Jarret Jack gives the Raptors an experienced body off the bench and some much needed veteran leadership. The Raptors used their draft pick to select sophomore forward Ed Davis from UNC. Davis will get an opportunity to play right away in Toronto's thin front court. Overall the 2010-11 campaign will be a long one in Toronto but with Bryan Colangelo's proven track record of building winners there is some light at the end of the tunnel..



 Raptors fan? Check out http://www.raptorshq.blogspot.com

NBA TEAM BY TEAM Previews

Over the next month I will be previewing each team in anticipation of the upcoming NBA season. To make things interesting I will preview them from 30 to 1 in what will be my preseason Power Poll rankings.

NBA Training Camps Open This Week

With the most anticipated off season in NBA history in the books, the teams are now preparing for the 2010 season with the start of training camps this week. The biggest move of the offseason was the power shift down to South Beach when "King" James teamed up with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh to create a super team in Miami. While, we are on the subject of  LeBron, can we please stop calling him the King? What exactly has he done to be called the King? Winning 60 plus games two years in a row and failing to even make the finals in the much weaker Eastern Conference causes you to lose the title of King in my book.  You can't deny that he is one of the top players in the league but lets at least see him win a championship before we crown him King. Okay on to other story lines. The Lakers are looking for another 3 peat in what could be Phil Jackson's last season in his Hall of Fame coaching career. The Knicks hope the signing of Amare Stoudemire will lead them back to the playoffs and in turn back to relevancy. The Celtics are back for possibly one last run with the first big 3. In Denver Carmelo Anthony's future remains in flux with trade rumors coming out of the Mile High City everyday. The Bulls have quietly had one of the best off season's adding Carlos Boozer and a slew of other under rated players. In Indiana the Pacers are hoping the addition of Darren Collison will jump start the rebuilding effort.

In the next couple weeks I will be going team by team previewing the upcoming NBA Season.