NBA Recap Wednesday and Thursday

NBA Round Up Wednesday 10/27 and Thursday 10/28
　
Wednesday 10/28/2010
The first full slate of action in the 2010-11 NBA Campaign packed full of upsets and great performances.
First we start in Cleveland where the Cavs were starting the post LeBron era against the team that beat LeBron's Heat on opening night the Boston Celtics. As fate would have it the Cavs did what LeBron's super team could not do on Tuesday night and beat the Boston Celtics. JJ Hickson led the way for the Cavs with 21 points and Daniel Gibson added 16 off the bench to help hold off the Celtics in their 95-87 win. Rajan Rondo led the Celtics with 18 points and 9 assists. In New Jersey the Nets defeated the Pistons 101-98. Brook Lopez led the way with 25 points and 9 rebounds. Devin Harris poured in 22 points for the victorious Nets. Rodney Stuckey was top performer for the Pistons with 14 points and 7 assists. This game wasn't decided until the final seconds when Anthony Morrow hit the go ahead 3 pointer with 26 ticks left in the game. The Miami Heat won their first game of the season in Philadelphia 97-87. Dwyane Wade bounced back from his awful opening night performance to lead the Heat with 30 points and 7 rebounds. James Jones chipped in with 20 points off the bench including 6 3 pointers. Rookie Evan Turner led the Sixers with 16 points off the bench. The bench was a huge part of the Sixers attack with Thaddeus Young and Lou Williams each chipping in 15 points. The Amare Stoudemire era tipped off for the Knicks in Toronto Tuesday night. The Knicks defeated the Raptors 98-93 led by Wilson Chandlers 22 points and 8 rebounds. Amare added 19 points and 10 rebounds. For the Raptors Andrea Bargnani led all scorers with 22 points and Jarrett Jack added 16 points and 6 assists. In the Crescent City a healthy Chris Paul led the Hornets to an opening night victory over Milwaukee with 17 points and 16 assists. David West looked to be in all star form adding 22 points and 7 rebounds for the Hornets. The Bucks got a double double from Andrew Bogut 15 points and 15 rebounds and Brandon Jennings 15 points and 10 assists and also 19 points from Carlos Delfino in a losing effort. The Kings are 1-0 for the first time in 7 years as they held off the Timberwolves in an exciting 117-116 victory. Carl Landry's 22 point 11 rebound game led the way for the Kings who were playing without last years rookie of the year Tyreke Evans who is serving a one game suspension for pleading no contest to a reckless driving charge over the summer. Francisco Garcia scored 22 points to help lead the Kings to the victory. Luke Ridnour led the Wolves with 20 points and 7 assists and Mike Beasley added 17 points and 7 rebounds in a losing effort. In Memphis the Hawks steamrolled the Grizzlies 119-104. Joe Johnson paced the Hawks with 22 points and 7 assists. Zaza Pachulia posted 17 points and 11 rebounds off the bench for the Hawks. The Grizzlies were led by Mike Conley's 23 points and 8 assists and Rudy Gay scored 21 points in a losing effort for Memphis. In Big D the Mavs started the season off right cruising to a 15 point win over Charlotte. Dirk Nowitzki led the way with 28 points and 13 rebounds. Jason Kidd chipped in 12 points and 18 assists and Jason Terry scored 22 points for the Mavs. Tyrus Thomas led the Bobcats with 22 points. The Nuggets opened the season with a blowout win over Utah 110-88. Carmelo Anthony led the way with 23 points for the Nuggets and Arron Affalo added 22 points. The Jazz were led by Deron Williams 17 points. In Oakland the Warriors beat the Rockets in the most exciting game of the night 132-128. Monta Ellis was red hot scoring 46 points of 18-24 shooting. Steph Curry added 25 points and 11 assists and David Lee chipped in 17 points and 15 rebounds. Luis Scola led Houston with 36 points and 16 rebounds and Kevin Martin scored 28 points for the Rockets who dropped to 0-2 on the season. The Blazers improved to 2-0 with a 98-88 victory over the Clippers on Wednesday night. Brandon Roy's 22 points and 10 rebounds, LaMarcus Aldridge 19 points and 10 rebounds, and Nicolas Batum's 15 points led the way for the Blazers. Blake Griffins NBA debut was a good one even in a losing effort. Griffin scored 20 points and 14 rebounds. Eric Gordon led the Clips with 22 points. In Oklahoma City the Thunder built of their momentum from last season and defeated the Bulls 105-96. Kevin Durant's 30 points and Russell Westbrook's near triple double 28 points 10 rebounds and 6 assists were too much for the Bulls who were playing without Carlos Boozer. Derrick Rose led the Bulls with 28 points but he did it on 12-31 shooting. Joakim Noah added a double double of 18 points and 19 rebounds and Taj Gibson chipped in 16 points and 11 rebounds for the Bulls in a losing effort. And our final game of the night the veteran Spurs outlasted a pesky Pacers team 122-109 in San Antonio. This game was nip and tuck until the 4th when the Spurs pulled away. Tim Duncan scored 23 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, Manu Ginobili scored 22 points and Tony Parker added 20 points and 9 assists. The Pacers look improved but their youth caught up with them as 23 turnovers killed their chances. Roy Hibbert led the Pacers with 28 points and 9 rebounds, Danny Granger scored 26 points, and Darren Collison scored 19 points and had 7 assists.
　
Thursday Recap
The Magic opened the season in style routing the Wizards 112-83. Dwight Howard got his usual double double of 23 points and 10 rebounds. Vince Carter scored 18 points and Jameer Nelson scored 16 points for the Magic who barely broke a sweat last night. The Wizards were led by rookie John Wall’s 14 points and 9 assists. Cartier Martin led the Wizards in scoring with 17 points off the bench. In Utah the Suns defeated the Jazz 110-94. Steve Nash led the Suns with 18 points and 5 assists and Hakim Warrick added a double double of 18 points and 11 rebounds off the bench. Utah was led by Al Jefferson’s 20 points , Paul Millsap’s 19 points and 13 rebounds, and Andrei Kirlenko’s 19 points



Scoreboard
Boston 87   1-1
Cleveland 95  1-0

Detroit 98  0-1
New Jersey 101  1-0

Miami 97  1-1
Philadelphia 87 0-1

New York 98 1-0
Toronto 93  0-1

Milwaukee 91 0-1
New Orleans 95 1-0

Sacramento 117  1-0
Minnesota  116  0-1

Atlanta 119 1-0
Memphis 104 0-1

Charlotte 86 0-1
Dallas   101  1-0

Utah 88  0-1
Denver 110 1-0

Houston 128 0-2
Golden State 132 1-0

Portland 98 2-0
Los Angeles C 88  0-1

Chicago 95 0-1
Oklahoma City 106 1-0

Indiana 109  0-1
San Antonio 122 1-0

Washington 83 0-1
Orlando 112   1-0

Phoenix 110 1-1
Utah  94   0-2

NBA Day 2 What to Watch For

NBA DAY 2 Preview
Things I'm looking for
Celtics @ Cavs
Veteran Celtics hope to get off to a hot start and build a divisional lead. A big divisional lead would allow the Celtics to rest some of their veteran guys and keep them healthy for the playoffs. For the Cavs, they begin life without LeBron tonight. Wouldn't it be something if they upset the Celtics the night after LeBron and the super friends failed to.
Pacers @ Spurs
For the aging Spurs the question that will surround them all year is whether this is the beginning of the end for one of the most consistent teams in the NBA the last decade. Meanwhile, the Pacers are just hoping to become relevant again. Newly acquired point guard Darren Collison gives the Pacers a young point guard of the future they haven't had well ever. Keep in mind that Reggie Miller leads the Pacers in assists all time.
Bulls @ Thunder
This is the most intriguing match up of the night. The Bulls missed out on the Big 3 this summer but instead built a fantastic team adding a quantity of quality players instead of just one superstar. The Thunder were the surprise team of the NBA last year and became media darlings even pushing the eventual champion Lakers to 6 games in the first round. This year people expect them to be great. How they handle the expectations will be something to follow all season in OKC.
Pistons @ Nets
The Pistons and their surplus of scoring guards open up the season in New Jersey. The main storyline for the Pistons is the future of Rip Hamilton, and Tayshaun Prince both of whom will likely finish the season with another team. For the Nets this is the beginning of the Mikhali Prokorov era. The Russian billionaire owner struck out with the big time free agents but is in the mix for Carmelo Anthony.
Heat @ 76ers
The debut for the biggest 3 was a disaster in Boston last night. Tonight the Heat hope to bounce back in a big way at the expense of the Sixers. The Doug Collins era begins tonight in Philly. Rookie Evan Turner is starting the season on the bench for the Sixers.
Knicks @ Raptors
Amare Stoudemire makes his debut with the Knicks tonight. Can he lead them back to the playoffs? The Raptors are in for a long season. Life without Bosh will be ugly but quite frankly Bosh never really did anything at least the Raptors by blowing up the team can finish last hopefully win the lottery and start over.
Bucks @ Hornets
The Bucks surprised everyone and made the playoffs last season. Brandon Jennings hopes to take the Bucks to the next level this season and contend in the East. With the Hornets its all about Chris Paul his happiness and health are essential to the franchise. If the team tanks what’s going to stop him from demanding a trade to New York teaming up with Amare and possibly Carmelo and creating another big 3.
.
Kings @ Timberwolves
Tyreke Evans and DeMarcus Cousins could be the latest Kevin Garnett and Stephon Marbury combo. We all know how that turned out. Speaking of KG and Steph, the Timberwolves are a young squad but likely one of the worst teams. At least they have an entertaining GM in David Kahn.
Hawks @ Grizzlies
The Hawks threw 120 million bucks at Joe Johnson to keep him in Atlanta. The question now is can Johnson lead the Hawks to the next level and seriously contend for the Eastern Conference championship? The Grizzlies improved to almost .500 last season and theres a lot of hope in Memphis for maybe the first time ever. Can the Grizzlies mad scientist chemistry experiment work for another season?
Bobcats @ Mavs
The Bobcats are hoping to build off the franchises first playoff berth.
The Mavs and their 2005 all star team are hoping to take down the Lakers out West.
Jazz @ Nuggets
The Jazz plug in Jefferson for Boozer and hope to keep the tune that has had them in the playoffs nearly every year of my 25 year long life.
Carmelo watch 2010 is in full affect....stay tuned.
Rockets @ Warriors
The Rockets nearly took down the champs last night. Interesting to see how Yao performs on the 2nd night of a back to back
The Keith Smart era begins and David Lee debuts for the Warriors who also kept Husky favorite Jeff Adrien on their 15 man roster. Sorry my UConn homerism was bound to bleed through eventually.
Blazers @ Clippers
Was Nicolas Batum’s 19 point 11 rebound game a fluke or is he going to be a contender for the most improved player award.
Blake Griffins NBA debut , There is actually a little hope for the Clippers?
More Links

ESPN Experts play 20 Questions

Bill Simmons ranks the 30 teams based on appeal from a season ticket holders perspective
Video Links
(NBA.COM won't let me post the videos on here , either that or i can't figure it out)

Rajan Rondo dropping dimes
http://www.nba.com/video/channels/top_plays/2010/10/27/20101026_rondo_assists.nba/?ls=iref:nbahpt2http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmonsnfl2010/101015&sportCat=nbahttp://sports.espn.go.com/nba/preview2010/news/story?page=Roundup-20Questions

Hoops Links.......

Hoops Links
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/recap?gameId=301026002
LeBrons lost to Boston. I guess some things never change.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/recap?gameId=301026013
Lakers get rings, hold off Rockets.  Watch out for Houston this year.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/recap?gameId=301026022
Roy and Batum lead Blazers over Suns.   Suns will miss Amare you can write that down.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/truehoop/miamiheat/news/story?id=5730079
People here in Cleveland will never ever get over it. But this is funny.

http://espn.go.com/nba/dailydime/_/page/dime-101027/daily-dime
ESPN's daily Dime .... always good quick source for whats happening in the Association

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/commentary/news/story?page=kreidler/101026
ESPN's page 2 pokes fun at Stern playing the contraction card in the upcoming CBA negotiations
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Notes-from-the-Laker-ceremony-leather-bound-rin?urn=nba-280158
Ball Don't Lie on the Lakers new rings


Blogs you should check out daily
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie
http://espn.go.com/blog/truehoop

Opening Night Recap

The 2010-11 NBA Season tipped off last night with a marquee match up in Boston. The debut of the mega 3 in Miami was as anticipated must see TV. The Heat struggled most of the night especially early on only posting 9 points on the board the entire first quarter. ESPN writer and NBA junkie Bill Simmons even tweeted from the game "@
Blazers 106 Suns 92
The Blazers defeated the Suns last night in Portland. Brandon Roy led the way with 24 points and Nicolas Batum thrived in a starting role scoring 19 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. The Suns were playing their first game in the post Amare era. Nash looked like the same old Steve Nash scoring 26 points and handing out 6 assists and Jason Richardson poured in 22 points. The Suns were dominated on the glass by a margin of 18 and when you add that with the fact they only had three players reach double figures the end result is usually not favorable.
Lakers 112 Rockets 110
This game turned out to be the game of the night. A Lamar Odom block sealed the opening night win for the two time defending champions. Steve Blake drained a 3 pointer in the final seconds to give the Lakers the lead that Odom's swat would preserve. Pau Gasol led the champs with 29 points and 11 rebounds. Kobe Bryant’s all around game of 27 points 5 rebounds and 7 assists answered a couple of questions about the health of his knee. The Lakers got contributions from everyone Shannon Brown 16 points, Lamar Odom 14, and Steve Blake added 10 points. The Rockets were very impressive in this game giving the champs all they could handle in the Staples Center. Kevin Martin led the way with 26 points and Aaron Brooks added 24 points and 9 rebounds. Yao Ming looked solid in his first action in over a year with 9 points and 11 rebounds. The Rockets are limiting Yao to 24 minutes on back to back games in an effort to bring the Chinese Giant back slowly and preserve her career. Luis Scola had a monster double double with 18 points and 16 rebounds. Even in defeat the Rockets were impressive and could be a team to contend with in the West.
Fantasy report
*My fantasy report is based on my personal 14 team keeper league that is based on head to head total points. The scoring for this league is a little different than normal fantasy leagues. Teams get 1 point for points, rebounds, assists, blocks, steals, field goal made, free throw made, and three point made. Teams lose 1 point for turnovers and fg, ft, and 3pt missed. 5 points for a double double 10 points for a triple double and 20 points for a quadruple double.
The Fantasy Studs
Pau Gasol 50 points
Kobe Bryant 42 points
Paul Pierce, Aaron Brooks, Luis Scola 40 points
LeBron James, Jason Richardson, Brandon Roy 36 points
Kevin Martin 34 points
Nicolas Batum Steve Nash 32 points
Lamar Odom 30 points
The Fantasy Duds
Dwayne Wade 13 points
Channing Frye 10 points
Ron Artest 9 points
Hedo Turkoglu 8 points
Zydrunaus Illgauskas 6 points
Grant Hill 2 points
Nate Robinson -1 points
sportsguy33 Bill Simmons Great energy in the building and on the court. Psyched to be here. Also, Miami looks like they just met 45 minutes ago." It showed as Dwyane Wade struggled all night long shooting 4/16 and committing 6 turnovers. LeBron James brought the Heat back behind his 31 points but he was also sloppy in his play with 8 turnovers. The Celtics however used a the same balanced attack and sound defense to stake claim to a 88-80 win. Ray Allen led the Celtics with 20 points. Paul Pierce chipped in 19 points and 9 rebounds. Kevin Garnett had a double double with 10 points and 10 boards and Shaquille O'Neal had a solid debut with 9 points and 7 boards. Rajan Rondo paced the offense with his 17 assists. The Celtics proved that the myth that the Heat would just walk all over everyone out East isn't true. These two teams will likely be battling at the end of the season too.

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #1 Los Angeles Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers
09-10 Record: 57-25 NBA Champions Beat OKC in 6, Swept Utah, Beat Phoenix in 6, Beat Boston in 7 games
Coach: Phil Jackson 11th year with Los Angeles
Off Season Movement
Additions: Matt Barnes, Theo Ratliff, Steve Blake
Drafted: Derrick Caracter, Devin Ebanks
Losses: Jordan Farmar, Adam Morrison, Josh Powell DJ Mbenga
　
Projected Rotation
C Andrew Bynum
PF Pau Gasol
SF Ron Artest
SG Kobe Bryant
PG Derek Fisher
F Lamar Odom
F Matt Barnes
G Steve Blake
G Sasha Vujacic
G Shannon Brown
C Theo Ratliff
F Luke Walton
F Devin Ebanks
F Derrick Caracter
G Trey Johnson
The two time defending champion Lakers are on a mission for a 3 peat. The Lakers return nearly the same team that defeated the Celtics in last years 7 game finals series. Kobe Bryant was able to help convince the Zen Master Phil Jackson to come back for one last run at a 3 peat. The Lakers are also looking to tie Boston for the most championships all time with their 17th championship in franchise history. The starting 5 remains intact with Andrew Bynum , Pau Gasol, Ron Artest, Derek Fisher and of course Kobe Bryant. The Lakers upgraded their bench by letting Jordan Farmar , Adam Morrison, and Josh Powell go and bringing in Matt Barnes , Steve Blake , and Theo Ratliff. The rest of the bench consists of the same guys who have helped the Lakers to back to back titles Lamar Odom, Sasha Vujacic, Luke Walton, and Shannon Brown. The Lakers remain the team to beat in the entire NBA. They are not without question marks however, the big one being the healthy of Center Andrew Bynum. All in all the Lakers are back together for one goal and that is a 3 peat and the NBA championship. They are the favorites out West and a showdown with the Heat in June would be some can't miss NBA. The Lakers remain the top dog of the league until someone steps up and takes them down.

Lakers fan? Check out http://www.silverscreenandroll.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #2 Miami Heat

Miami Heat
09-10 Record: 47-35 Lost to Boston in 5 games in 1st round
Coach: Erik Spoelstra 3rd season with Miami
Off Season Moves
Additions: LeBron James, Chris Bosh, Eddie House, Juwan Howard, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Mike Miller
Drafted: Dexter Pittman, Jarvis Varnardo, Da'Sean Butler, Patrick Beverly
Losses: Jermaine O'Neal, Quentin Richardson, Michael Beasley, Daequan Cook
Projected Rotation
PF Udonis Haslem
PF Chris Bosh
SF LeBron James
SG Dwyane Wade
PG Mario Chalmers
F Mike Miller
C Zyrdrunas Ilgauskas
F James Jones
G Eddie House
G Carlos Arroyo
F Juwan Hoawrd
C Jamaal Maglorie
C Joel Anthony
F Dexter Pittman
F Da'Sean Butler
　
The Miami Heat orchestrated the biggest player movement off season in league history when they convinced LeBron James and Chris Bosh to team up with Dwyane Wade to form a super big 3 and instantly became the villains of the NBA. The Heat transformed themselves to a Yankees type level where you either hop on the bandwagon and love them or you flat out hate them there is no middle ground. Pat Riley was successful in gutting his roster completely and having enough cap space to bring in James and Bosh, resign Wade, and bring in a decent supporting cast. Udonis Haslem, James Jones, and Jamaal Maglorie took pay cuts to stay in South Beach. Mike Miller, Carlos Arroyo, Juwan Howard, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, and Eddie House all flocked to South Beach all taking less money to make a run at a championship. The Heat used their 3 second picks on college veterans Jarvis Varnardo, Dexter Pittman, and Da'Sean Butler. Mario Chalmers will be the starting point guard and could really benefit from his new situation. The Heat are on a mission for one thing, an NBA championship. The super trio of James, Wade, and Bosh immediately catapults them to the favorites in the East if not in the entire league. The Heat will have their challengers ( Boston, Orlando, and Chicago) but anything less than a trip to the Finals would be considered a failure in South Beach. Either way the single biggest storyline in the NBA figures to be the Heat.
　
Heat fan? Check out http://www.peninsulaismightier.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #3 Boston Celtics

Boston Celtics
09-10 Record: 50-32 Beat Miami in 5, Beat Cleveland in 6, Beat Orlando in 6, Lost in 7 games to Lakers in NBA Finals.
Coach Doc Rivers in 7th season with Boston
Off Season Movements
Additions: Jermaine O'Neal, Shaquille O'Neal, Von Wafer, Delonte West
Draft: Avery Bradley, Luke Harangody
Losses: Rasheed Wallace, Tony Allen, Brian Scalabrine, Shelden Williams
Projected Rotation
C Shaquille O'Neal
PF Kevin Garnett
SF Paul Pierce
SG Ray Allen
PG Rajan Rondo
G Nate Robinson
F Glen Davis
C Jermaine O'Neal
G Delonte West
F Marquiese Dainels
C Kendrick Perkins
G Avery Bradley
G Von Wafer
F Luke Harangody
G Mario West
The Celtics pushed the Lakers to 7 games in the Finals but ultimatley came up just short of championship number 18. The veteran group returns intact for possibly their last hurrah as title contenders. The veteran Celtics must stay healthy to be able to take down Miami or Orlando in the East. The original big 3 is back with Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen who are all still capable but are close to entering the twilight of their NBA careers. Starting center Kendrick Perkins remains on the roster but will miss some of the early season recovering from the torn ACL he suffered in game 6 of the finals. The Celtics missed Perkins big body on the glass in game 7 as they fell to the Lakers. All league point Rajan Rondo became the man on the team last season. The Celtics often went as Rondo went and Pierce or Allen would close it out down the stretch. Glen Davis and Nate Robinson are back to provide the same spark off the bench they did all post season last year. The Celtics beefed up their front court by signing Shaquille O'Neal and Jermaine O'Neal. Both are still capable players but have become injury prone and both will be forced to become support players which is a role they haven't had to play in the past. The rest of the Celtics bench consists of Delonte West. Marquiese Daniels, Avery Bradley, Von Wafer, Luke Harangody, and Mario West. The Celtics will be one of the top contenders for the NBA title once again. If they can find away to be healthy come the postseason they should not be counted out no matter what their seed is thanks to their veteran leadership and recent post season experience. I expect the Celtics to win enough games to get a decent seed then put a focus on getting healthy for the playoffs before embarking on a quest for the franchise's 18th championship.
　
Celtics fan? Check out http://www.celticsblog.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #4 Orlando Magic

Orlando Magic
09-10 Record: 59-23 Swept Charlotte Swept Atlanta Lost to Boston in 6 games in Eastern Conference Finals.
Coach Stan Van Gundy in 4th season with Orlando
Off Season Movement
Additions: Malik Allen, Chris Duhon, Quentin Richardson
Draft: Daniel Orton, Stanley Robinson
Losses: Matt Barnes
　
Projected Rotations
C Dwight Howard
PF Brandon Bass
SF Rashard Lewis
SG Vince Carter
PG Jameer Nelson
C Marcin Gortat
SF Quentin Richardson
SG Mickeal Pietrus
G J.J Reddick
G Chris Duhon
G Jason Williams
C Daniel Orton
F Ryan Anderson
F Stanley Robinson
F Malik Allen
The Orlando Magic have built themselves into one of the perennial top dogs of the Eastern Conference back to back conference finals trips and one NBA finals trip helps you reach that status. The Magic look to be one of the top contenders out east again in 2010-11. The team still revolves around Dwight Howard. Howard is a game changer defensively and is still developing an offensive game. Howard's defense and rebounding alone puts him in the annual MVP debates. Once his offensive game comes around he could be the most dominant big man since Shaq. Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis are back and coming off a forgettable conference finals performance vs. Boston. Jameer Nelson is still the point guard and Brandon Bass could start at the power forward. The bench is one of the better ones in the league led by Martin Gortat, Quentin Richardson, and Mickeal Pietrus. The Magic matched Chicagos offer sheet to retain sharpshooter JJ Reddick. Chris Duhon comes in from New York to back up Nelson. Jason Williams, Daniel Orton, Sticks Robinson, Ryan Anderson, and Malik Allen. The Magic should challenge Miami and Boston for Eastern Conference supremacy. To take down the Heat Howard is going to need to take his offensive game to the next level. Another deep playoff run should be expected in Orlando they are one of the favorites to win the East if not hold the Larry O'Brien trophy in June.
　
　
Magic fan? Check out http://www.orlandopinstripedpost.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #5 Oklahoma City Thunder

Oklahoma City Thunder
09-10 Record: 50-32 Lost to Lakers in 6 games in first round
Coach: Scott Brooks 3rd season with Oklahoma City
Off Season Moves
Additions: Royal Ivey, Daequan Cook, Morris Peterson
Draft: Cole Aldrich, Tibor Pleiss, Latavious Williams, Ryan Reid
Losses: Mustafa Shakur, Etan Thomas, Kyle Weaver
Projected Rotation
C Nick Collison
PF Jeff Green
SF Kevin Durant
SG Morris Peterson
PG Russell Westbrook
G James Harden
F Thabo Sefolosha
G Eric Maynor
C Nenad Kristic
C Cole Aldrich
G Daequan Cook
F DJ White
F Serge Ibaka
C Byron Mullens
G Jerome Dyson
The Oklahoma City Thunder were the surprise of the NBA. Coming out of nowhere to post a 50 win season and push eventual champion Los Angles to 6 games in the first round. Fresh off leading Team USA to the gold medal in the World Championships Kevin Durant is ready to make some noise in Oklahoma City. This season everyone will be looking out for them so it won't be easy. The Thunder posses one of the brightest futures in the NBA. Durant only 22 years old is being put in the same class as Kobe Bryant, Dwayne Wade, LeBron James, and Carmelo Anthony. But there is more to this team than Durant. Russell Westbrook is emerging as one of the top point guards in the entire association. Westbrook also won gold for team USA in Turkey this summer and was one of the key guys in Coach K's rotation. Former Georgetown standout Jeff Green will start at the 4 spot for the Thunder and Nick Collison will play the Center. The shooting guard spot could go to newly acquired veteran Morris Peterson. James Harden, Thabo Sefolosha, Eric Maynor, Nenad Kristic, Cole Aldrich, Daequan Cook, and D.J. White round out the bench for the Thunder. Optimism for this group is sky high in Oklahoma City. The Thunder should be a Western Conference contender for years to come with the core of Durant, Westbrook and Green leading the way a long playoff run may be in sight for this team.

Thunder fan? Check out  http://www.welcometoloudcity.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #6 Dallas Mavericks

Dallas Mavericks
09-10 Record: 55-27 Lost in the first round to San Antonio in 6 games
Coach : Rick Carlisle 3rd season with Dallas
Off Season Moves
Additions: Brain Cardinal, Ian Mahinmi, Steve Novak, Alexis Ajinca, Tyson Chandler
Draft: Dominique Jones
Losses: Erick Dampier, Matt Carroll, Eduardo Najera
　
Projected Rotation
C Brendan Haywood
PF Dirk Nowitzki
SF Shawn Marion
SG Jason Terry
PG Jason Kidd
F Caron Butler
C Tyson Chandler
G Deshawn Stevenson
G Rodrigue Beaubois
F Brian Cardinal
G Dominique Jones
F Steve Novak
G Jose Barea
C Alexis Ajinca
C Ian Mahinmi
　
The Dallas Mavericks have been one of the perennial playoff teams of the last decade. Owner Mark Cuban has came in and sparred no dollar in attempt to win an NBA championship. So far the championship has eluded Cuban. Dirk Nowitzki has been the face of the franchise during the entire Cuban era. This summer the Mavs re signed Nowitzki to a contract that will likely keep Dirk in Dallas for the remainder of his career. The rest of the Mavs reads like a who's who in 2005. They have a lot of big name veterans all gunning for that elusive championship. Center Brendan Haywood resigned in the off season and will battle former all star Tyson Chandler for the starting center position. As always Dirk will man the power forward spot. The small forward battle will be between former all stars Shawn Marion and Caron Butler. Jason Terry will likely start at the 2 guard while future Hall of Famer Jason Kidd will be the point guard. Coming off the bench will be DeShawn Stevenson, breakout guard Rodrigue Beaubois, Brian Cardinal, and rookie Dominique Jones. The Mavs roster is every bit as talented as the Lakers and if they can gel and play together as a team they very well could dethrone the Lakers. Another thing they must overcome is Dirk Nowitzki's well documented struggles in the clutch. Until Dirk gets over this problem the Mavs will continue to disappoint come May and June.

Mavs fan?  Check out http://www.mavsmoneyball.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #7 Chicago Bulls

Chicago Bulls
09-10 Record: 41-41 Lost to Cleveland in 5 games in 1st round
Coach: Tom Thibodeau 1st year with Chicago
Off Season Moves
Additions: Keith Bogans, Brain Scalabrine, Ronnie Brewer, Kyle Korver, Kurt Thomas, CJ Watson, Carlos Boozer
Draft: Omer Asik
Losses: Joe Alexander, Acie Law, Brad Miller, Jannero Pargo, Kirk Hinrich, Hakim Warrick
Projected Rotation
C Joakim Noah
PF Carlos Boozer
SF Luol Deng
SG C.J. Watson
PG Derrick Rose
F Kyle Korver
F Taj Gibson
G Ronnie Brewer
G Keith Bogans
F Kurt Thomas
F James Johnson
C Omer Asik
F Brian Scalabrine
G John Lucas III
F Roger Powell
　
This summer the Bulls were very active on the free agent market. Their biggest splash was bringing former Utah Jazz All Star forward Carlos Boozer. Boozer provides the Bulls with an inside scoring threat that they have been lacking. Derrick Rose remains the go to guy on this Chicago team and the Bulls are hoping he takes the next step and becomes one of the elite players in the NBA. Joakim Noah , fresh off signing a brand new extension, will continue to start at the 5. The Bulls have stuck to their guns refusing to include Noah in any deal for Carmelo Anthony. CJ Watson comes over from Golden State and could step into the starting two guard spot. Often injured Luol Deng is slated to be the starting small forward. Deng has proven to be a major bust since signing his huge extension a few years back. The Bulls have a very solid bench that could be one of the best benches in the league. Kyle Korver, Taj Gibson, Ronnie Brewer, Keith Bogans, Kurt Thomas, and James Johnson round out the group. The Bulls are one of the true contenders out East. If Luol Deng can live up to his expectations and Derrick Rose can take his game to the next level the Bulls could challenge Miami, Boston, and Orlando for the top spot.


Bulls fan? Check out http://www.blogabull.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #8 Utah Jazz

Utah Jazz
09-10 Record: 53-29 Beat Denver in 6 , Swept by Lakers in 2nd round
Coach: Jerry Sloan 23rd year with Utah
Off Season Moves
Additions: Raja Bell, Francisco Elson, Earl Watson, Al Jefferson
Draft: Gordon Hayward, Jeremy Evans
Losses: Kyle Korver, Wesley Matthews, Carlos Boozer
　
Projected Rotation
C Al Jefferson
PF Mehmet Okur
SF Andrei Kirlenko
SG Raja Bell
PG Deron Williams
F Paul Millsap
G Earl Watson
G CJ Miles
F Gordon Hayward
C Francisco Elson
G Ronnie Price
C Kyrylo Fesenko
G Sundiata Gaines
G Ryan Thompson
F Demetrius Nichols
One of the few things you can write in cement in the ever changing NBA is that the Utah Jazz will make the playoffs. When you make the playoffs 24 of 27 seasons its expected of you. For all those trips though the Jazz have yet to win an NBA title. This summer the Jazz swapped scoring power forwards when Carlos Boozer bolted for the Windy City and then Minnesota gave them Al Jefferson for literally nothing. The only other moves were Kyle Korver and Wesley Matthews leaving and Raja Bell , Francisco Elson, and Earl Watson coming in. The starting 5 will consist of Jefferson, Mehmet Okur, Andrei Kirlenko, Raja Bell, and All Star Deron Williams. The bench will be led by Paul Millsap , Earl Watson, CJ Miles, Rookie Gordon Hayward, and Francisco Elson. Jerry Sloan is in his 23rd season with the team and is always one of the best coaches in the league. The Jazz will continue to be one of the perennial powers out west and are absolutely a threat to the Lakers reign out west.
　
Jazz fan?  Check out  http://www.slcdunk.com/　

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #9 Portland Trail Blazers

Portland Trail Blazers
09-10 Record: 50-32 Lost to the Suns in 6 games in the first round
Coach: Nate McMillian 6th season with Portland
Off Season Moves
Additions: Wesley Matthews
Draft: Luke Babbit, Elliot Williams, Armon Johnson
Losses: Juwan Howard, Travis Diener, Martell Webster, Ryan Gomes
Projected Rotation
C Marcus Camby
PF LaMarcus Aldridge
SF Nicolas Batum
SG Brandon Roy
PG Andre Miller
G Wesley Matthews
G Jerryd Bayless
G Rudy Fernandez
C Greg Oden
C Joel Pryzbilla
F Dante Cunningham
F Jeff Pendergraph
G Patty Mills
G Elliott Williams
F Luke Babbitt
　
The Portland Trail Blazers overcame injury after injury to win 50 games last season. Unfortunately their biggest injury came at the wrong time when franchise player Brandon Roy suffered a knee injury in March seriously affecting the Blazers playoff hopes. Brandon Roy returns healthy and ready to lead the Blazers to the next level. Marcus Camby provides the Blazers with veteran leadership and his usual sold production from the 5 spot. LaMarcus Aldridge improved in his second season and provided Portland with a reliable inside presence. Super athlete Nicolas Batum steps into a bigger role starting at the 3. Veteran Andre Miller returns as the starting point guard. Newly signed Wesley Matthews comes over from Utah to headline a bench unit that was one of the best in the league last season. Guard Rudy Fernandez has been openly upset about his role with the team even going as far as demanding a trade. As of now he has yet to be dealt so thats a storyline to keep an eye on. The rest of the bench consists of scoring machine Jerryd Bayless, Greg Oden, Joel Pryzbilla, Dante Cunningham, Jeff Pendergraph, and Patty Mills. The Blazers will continue to be one the top teams out West. If they can avoid the injury bug they could be a serious threat to the Laker dynasty.


Blazers fan? Check out http://www.blazersedge.com/

　

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #10 San Antonio Spurs

San Antonio Spurs
09-10 Record: 50-32 Beat Dallas in 6 , Swept by Phoenix in second round
Coach : Greg Popovich 15th year with San Antonio
Off Season Moves
Additions: Gary Neal
Draft: James Anderson, Ryan Richards, Tiago Splitter
Losses: Ian Mahinmi, Roger Mason, Keith Bogans, Malik Hariston
Projected Rotation
C Tim Duncan
PF Matt Bonner
SF Richard Jefferson
SG Manu Ginobili
PG Tony Parker
G George Hill
F Antonio McDyess
F DeJuan Blair
F Bobby Simmons
G James Anderson
G Curtis Jerrells
G Gary Neal
F Marcus Cousin
The San Antonio Spurs have been the most consistent team in the NBA over the past 13 years. 13 consecutive playoff appearances and 4 championships in that span have made the Spurs the envy of most of the NBA. The center piece of the Spurs run has been future hall of famer power forward Tim Duncan. Duncan is entering the twilight of his career and is looking for another run at the championship. Duncan is in his 14th season in the league and its apparent he has passed the prime of his career. All that being true Duncan is still one of the best big men in the game and if he is healthy he is still a lock for an All Star bid and you can put the Spurs down for a playoff berth. The catalyst for the Spurs to be able to actually make a run through the playoffs is wing man Manu Ginobili. Ginobili has ran into multiple injury problems the last few years and the Spurs suffered in his absence. For Duncan to get ring number 5 Ginobili has to be healthy and continue his typical stellar level of play. Matt Bonner will be the starter at the 4 spot. Bonner is a capable defender and rebounder who can stretch the d with his outside shot. Former all star Richard Jefferson is back for his second year on the river walk. Jefferson was a disappointment last season as the Spurs brought him in hoping to inject some energy into an aging team. French sensation Tony Parker remains the point guard for now. The pride of IUPUI George Hill is on the verge of taking Parkers spot and Parker has openly stated he will not come of the bench. The bench consists of Antonio McDyess, DeJaun Blair, Bobby Simmons, and James Anderson. Overall you can expect the Spurs to make the playoffs as long as they stay healthy. But for them to make a run through the playoffs they need to add a little depth.

Spurs fan? Check out http://www.poundingtherock.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #11 Milwaukee Bucks

Milwaukee Bucks
09-10 Record: 46-36 Lost to Atlanta in 7 games in first round
Coach Scott Skiles
Off Season Moves
Additions: Drew Gooden, Keyon Dooling, Earl Boykins, Corey Maggette, Jon Brockman
Draft: Larry Sanders, Darrington Hobson, Tiny Gallon
Losses: Royal Ivey, Luke Ridnour, Kurt Thomas, Charlie Bell , Dan Gadzuric, Darnell Jackson
　
Projected Rotation
C Andrew Bogut
PF Drew Gooden
SF Corey Maggette
SG Michael Redd
PG Brandon Jennings
G John Salmons
F Larry Sanders
G Carlos Delfino
G Chris Douglas Roberts
G Earl Boykins
F Jon Brockman
G Keyon Dooling
F Tiny Gallon
F Luc Mbah a Moute
F Darrington Hobson
　
The Milwaukee Bucks suprised everyone in 2010 and made the playoffs from out of nowhere. Rookie point guard Brandon Jennings injected life into the Bucks and they pushed the Hawks all the way to a game 7 before falling. Andrew Bogut returns healthy after a late season injury kept him out of the playoffs. Newly acquired forwards Drew Gooden and Corey Maggette give the Bucks some veteran leadership. Former all star Michael Redd missed most of last season with a knee injury hopes to last a full season. If Redd's injury problems return then John Salmons is more than capable of stepping in. The rest of the bench consists of rookie Larry Sanders, Carlos Delfino, Chris Douglas Roberts, Earl Boykins, Jon Brockman, and Keyon Dooling. Scott Skiles's Bucks are hoping to become a perennial playoff team and with their nice blend of youth and experience the future looks bright in Milwaukee.

Bucks fan? http://www.brewhoops.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #12 Houston Rockets

Houston Rockets
09-10 Record: 42-40
Coach: Rick Adelman 4th season with Houston
Off Season Moves
Additions: Brad Miller, Courtney Lee
Draft: Patrick Patterson
Losses: David Andersen, Trevor Ariza
Projected Rotation
C Yao Ming
PF Luis Scola
SF Shane Battier
SG Kevin Martin
PG Aaron Brooks
C Brad Miller
G Courtney Lee
G Kyle Lowry
F Chase Buddinger
F Jordan Hill
F Chuck Hayes
F Jared Jefferies
F Patrick Patterson
G Antonio Anderson
C Jordan Eglseder
The Houston Rockets managed to over come a multitude of injuries and still finished 2 games over .500 good enough for 9th place out west. Houston fans are hoping for some luck with the injuries over the next season with a return to the postseason in their sights. Center Yao Ming is coming back from a broken foot and the Rockets plan to bring him along slowly limiting his minutes. Newly signed Brad Miller from Chicago gives them the flexibility to do that. Luis Scola is back at power forward. The wings consist of Aaron Brooks, Kevin Martin, and Shane Battier. Rounding out the bench is Courtney Lee, Kyle Lowry, Chase Buddinger, Jordan Hill, Chuck Hayes, Jared Jefferies, and Patrick Patterson. If they can avoid the injury bug the Rockets will be contending for a playoff spot out west. The bigger question with this franchise surrounds the future of Yao Ming. His injury problems continue to pile up and if he continues to have injury problems at some point Houston will need to move on for the best of the franchise.

Rockets fan?  Check out http://www.thedreamshake.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #13 New York Knicks

New York Knicks
09-10 Record:  29-53
Coach: Mike D'Antoni 3rd season with New York

Off Season Moves

Additions: Raymond Felton, Timofey Mozgov, Roger Mason, Patrick Ewing Jr., Kelenna Azubuike, Anthony Randolph, Amare Stoudemire, Ronny Turiaf

Draft:  Andy Rautins, Landry Fields, Jerome Jordan

Losses: Chris Duhon, Al Harrington, Eddie House, Tracy McGrady, Sergio Rodriguez, David Lee


Projected Rotation
C Amare Stoudemire
PF Danilo Gallinari
SF Kelenna Azubuike
SG Roger Mason Jr.
PG Raymond Felton
F    Anthony Randolph
C   Eddy Curry
F    Wilson Chandler
F    Ronny Turiaf
G   Toney Douglas
C   Timofy Mozgov
F    Patrick Ewing Jr
F    Bill Walker
G   Andy Rautins
F   Landry Fields


The summer of 2010 was supposed to be the rebirth of the once proud New York Knicks franchise. And while they missed out on the biggest prize former Cleveland forward LeBron James, the summer wasn't a total loss as they were able to sign Amare Stoudemire away from Phoenix. Amare and newly signed point guard Raymond Felton hope to breath life into the Garden and lead the Knicks back to the playoffs. Forward Danilo Gallinari had a breakout year last season and is hoping to build off it. in 10-11.  The Knicks also brought in Kelenna Azubuike from Golden State and Roger Mason Jr. from San Antonio. Both are looking for increased production with bigger roles and more playing time. The super athletic and full on potential Anthony Randolph comes in from Golden State where he will no longer be held down by Don Nelson. The rest of the bench consists of Eddy Curry, Wilson Chandler, Ronny Turiaf, Toney Douglas, Timofy Mozgov, Patrick Ewing Jr., and Bill Walker. The Knicks should finally compete for a playoff spot in the East. Finally starting to emerge from the mess left from Isaiah Thomas. While there is some optimism in Gotham the Knicks are still a ways away from where they want to be. A run at Carmelo Anthony either by trade or free agency in the summer would go a long way to getting them there.
As far as this season for the Knicks a return to the postseason is not out of the question.


Knicks fan?  Check out  http://www.postingandtoasting.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #14 Phoenix Suns

Phoenix Suns
09-10 Record: 54-28 Beat Por 4-2 Beat SAN 4-0 Lost to Lakers 4-2 in WCF
Coach: Alvin Gentry 3rd season with Phoenix

Off Season Moves
Additions: Matt Janning, Josh Childress, Hedo Turkoglu, Hakim Warrick
Draft: Gani Lawal , Dwayne Collins
Losses: Louis Admunson, Jarron Collins, Amare Stoudemire, Leandro Barbosa, Dwayne Jones, Taylor Griffin
Projected Rotation
C Robin Lopez
PF Hedo Turkoglu
SF Grant Hill
SG Jason Richardson
PG Steve Nash
G Josh Childress
F Channing Frye
F Hakim Warrick
F Jared Dudley
G Goran Dragic
G Chucky Atkins
F Earl Clark
F Gani Lawal
F Dwayne Collins
C Garret Siler

Last season the Suns blazed through the Western Conference playoffs all the way to the WCF where they pushed the eventual champion Lakers to the limit before falling in 6 games. In the off season the Suns suffered a bigger loss when forward Amare Stoudemire signed with New York. The Suns should be one of the better teams in the league again as they have a very nice stable of talent. The main question is how in the world do they go about replacing Amare? Two time MVP Steve Nash is proving ageless as he continues to be one of the best point guards in the league. Veterans Jason Richardson and Grant Hill man the wing positions. Both are coming of one of their better seasons of their long careers last season. Hedo Turkoglu arrives from Toronto and will likely fill the void left by Amare at the 4 spot. Turkoglu is a totally different type of player than Stoudamire but he is more than capable of scoring 20 plus ppg. Robin Lopez will be the man in the middle for the Suns and he will have to be big on the boards for this talented but small starting five. Josh Childress returns from Greece to come of the Suns bench. Joining Childress on the bench will be Channing Frye, Hakim Warrick, Jared Dudley, Goran Dragic, Chucky Atkins, and Earl Clark. The Suns will still be a team to be reckoned with out West for at least one more season. But when looking at the roster, one can't help but notice they arent getting any younger. Steve Nash's window for a championship ring is on the verge of slamming shut.

Suns fan?  Check out  http://www.brightsideofthesun.com/

2010-11 NBA TEAM PREVIEWS #15 Atlanta Hawks

Atlanta Hawks
09-10 Record: 53-29 Beat Mil 4-2 , Lost to Orlando 4-0 in Semifinals
Coach : Larry Drew 1st year with Atlanta
Off Season Movement
Additions: Josh Powell, Etan Thomas,
Draft: Jordan Crawford, Pape Sy
Losses: Joe Smith
Projected Rotation
C Zaza Pachullia
PF Al Horford
SF Josh Smith
SG Joe Johnson
PG Mike Bibby
G Jamal Crawford
F Josh Powell
F Marvin Williams
G Jeff Teague
G Maurice Evans
G Jordan Crawford
C Jason Collins
C Etan Thomas
G Richard Delk
F Ricardo Marsh
　
The Hawks spent big money to keep their man when they threw 120 million dollars Joe Johnson's way this off season. Although they almost certainly over paid to keep him, it is a nice change to see the Hawks actually keeping their young stars instead of letting them walk. The Hawks are in the midst of some of their most successful times in franchise history but, they are hungry for more after 3 straight early exits.
Last season they at least got out of the first round but then were quickly swept by the obviously superior Orlando Magic. The same core of the Hawks team returns with a goal of cracking into the Eastern Conference's elite. Josh Smith and Al Horford will man the two forward spots and both are in contract years so the Hawks will be forced will more tough decisions in the off season. Center Zasa Pachullia remains the man in the middle for the Hawks. Veteran point guard Mike Bibby will lead the show for Atlanta. Bibby's very solid pro career is entering its twilight so Bibby should be as hungry as ever to chase a ring. The bench is led by 6th man of the year winner Jamal Crawford. Josh Powell, Marvin Williams, Jeff Teague, Maurice Evans, and Jordan Crawford give the Hawks a very solid bench. The Hawks are at a cross roads. They are a good team but have yet to crack the elite tier in the East. They have already thrown a ton of money at Joe Johnson, how much money will they continue to throw at these young talented players if all they get in return is a trip to the second round and a quick exit?

Hawks fan? check out   http://www.peachtreehoops.com/