2011年1月24日星期一

24 Jan 11 Washington-USC: Huskies Getting Double Digits Against The Trojans

Otto Greule Jr/Getty ImagesThis Saturday the No.18 ranked USC Trojans will look to remain unbeaten as they host the Washington Huskies. USC improved to 4-0 on the season with an easy 50-16 win over Washington State last week, while the Huskies fell to 1-2 on the year with a lopsided 56-21 loss at home to Nebraska. If you are thinking about betting on the game this weekend, the current college football odds have the Trojans favored by 10-points over the Huskies at home.Washington (1-2, 0-0 Pac-10): It has not been the Oakland Raiders jersey
start the Huskies had imagined when the season got underway. Heisman hopeful Jake Locker really took a hit to his chances of winning with his performance against Nebraska, as Locker completed just 4 of 20 passes for 71 yards with just one touchdown to two interceptions. It was the third worst completion percentage by a FBS quarterback with at least 20 attempts since 2004. While I am certain Locker will bounce back the rest of the season, the rest of this team has a lot of improving to do before they even think about finishing the year with a winning record. The defense has been awful all season, allowing 33 points a game, and no matter how well Locker plays they are going to struggle to win when the defense allows the other team to score at will.The Huskies have had a nice running game so far this season, as they average nearly 160 yards a game on the ground. Chris Polk leads the way with 264 yards and two touchdowns, while Jesse Callier has added 143 yards on just 20 attempts, but has yet to find the endzone. The Trojans have struggled to put teams away this season, but I think it will be crucial for the Huskies to get off to a good start this Saturday, as I think it could get real ugly if they fall behind big early on.USC (4-0, 1-0 Pac-10): The Trojans wasted no Philadelphia Eagles jersey
time jumping out to an early lead against the Cougars, as they held a 28-13 lead at half. USC didnlet of the trigger in the second half, coming out and scoring 15 third quarter points to put the game out of reach for good. Quarterback Matt Barkley threw for 290 yards and three touchdowns on 16 of 25 passing, but did throw two more interceptions, giving him four in his last two games.Fullback Stanley Havili had himself quite a game against Washington State, as he ran the ball four times for 80 yards, including a 59-yard touchdown run, and had five catches for 107 yards and another touchdown. After this performance, donbe surprised if the Trojans donfind a way to get this kid the ball more often. Allen Bradford led the Trojans with 84 yards on seven carries, but there were four different backs that carried the ball at least seven times. Look for the Trojans to come out firing as they have plenty of want back after the Huskies beat them 16-13 last year when USC was ranked No.3 in the country.Looking at the Odds: Based on the fact that USC was able to only beat Hawaii by 13, Virginia by 3, and Minnesota by 11, I think the right bet in this game is to take the 10 points and bet on the Huskies to cover the spread. Locker will have a much better day throwing the football Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
without the Nebraska defense on the field, as they were constantly in his face the entire game. The Trojans are allowing just over 282 yards a game through the air this season, and I think that Locker will really make them pay in this one. My final score prediction is USC 34, Washington 27.Interested in making some money this college football season? Check out what our expert college football handicappers have to offer in their weekly college football picks.

24 Jan 11 Washington-USC: Huskies Getting Double Digits Against The Trojans

Otto Greule Jr/Getty ImagesThis Saturday the No.18 ranked USC Trojans will look to remain unbeaten as they host the Washington Huskies. USC improved to 4-0 on the season with an easy 50-16 win over Washington State last week, while the Huskies fell to 1-2 on the year with a lopsided 56-21 loss at home to Nebraska. If you are thinking about betting on the game this weekend, the current college football odds have the Trojans favored by 10-points over the Huskies at home.Washington (1-2, 0-0 Pac-10): It has not been the Oakland Raiders jersey
start the Huskies had imagined when the season got underway. Heisman hopeful Jake Locker really took a hit to his chances of winning with his performance against Nebraska, as Locker completed just 4 of 20 passes for 71 yards with just one touchdown to two interceptions. It was the third worst completion percentage by a FBS quarterback with at least 20 attempts since 2004. While I am certain Locker will bounce back the rest of the season, the rest of this team has a lot of improving to do before they even think about finishing the year with a winning record. The defense has been awful all season, allowing 33 points a game, and no matter how well Locker plays they are going to struggle to win when the defense allows the other team to score at will.The Huskies have had a nice running game so far this season, as they average nearly 160 yards a game on the ground. Chris Polk leads the way with 264 yards and two touchdowns, while Jesse Callier has added 143 yards on just 20 attempts, but has yet to find the endzone. The Trojans have struggled to put teams away this season, but I think it will be crucial for the Huskies to get off to a good start this Saturday, as I think it could get real ugly if they fall behind big early on.USC (4-0, 1-0 Pac-10): The Trojans wasted no Philadelphia Eagles jersey
time jumping out to an early lead against the Cougars, as they held a 28-13 lead at half. USC didnlet of the trigger in the second half, coming out and scoring 15 third quarter points to put the game out of reach for good. Quarterback Matt Barkley threw for 290 yards and three touchdowns on 16 of 25 passing, but did throw two more interceptions, giving him four in his last two games.Fullback Stanley Havili had himself quite a game against Washington State, as he ran the ball four times for 80 yards, including a 59-yard touchdown run, and had five catches for 107 yards and another touchdown. After this performance, donbe surprised if the Trojans donfind a way to get this kid the ball more often. Allen Bradford led the Trojans with 84 yards on seven carries, but there were four different backs that carried the ball at least seven times. Look for the Trojans to come out firing as they have plenty of want back after the Huskies beat them 16-13 last year when USC was ranked No.3 in the country.Looking at the Odds: Based on the fact that USC was able to only beat Hawaii by 13, Virginia by 3, and Minnesota by 11, I think the right bet in this game is to take the 10 points and bet on the Huskies to cover the spread. Locker will have a much better day throwing the football Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
without the Nebraska defense on the field, as they were constantly in his face the entire game. The Trojans are allowing just over 282 yards a game through the air this season, and I think that Locker will really make them pay in this one. My final score prediction is USC 34, Washington 27.Interested in making some money this college football season? Check out what our expert college football handicappers have to offer in their weekly college football picks.

2011年1月22日星期六

22 Jan 11 West Virginia Football: Bill Stewart Starts 3-0 For The First Time

In its heyday, the West Virginia University and Maryland rivalry signaled a turning point in the season for both schools. Whichever team won this game ultimately had a very successful season. After a two-year hiatus, one wonders if the old adage holds true. As a die-hard Mountaineer fan, I certainly hope so. Maryland, and Ralph Friedgen, had no answers to the Mountaineer attack on Saturday. Moreover, Maryland had no retort to the Mountaineer defense either. For one of the few times in the Bill Stewart era, WVU fans everywhere had reasons to rejoice over theBaltimore Ravens jersey
offensive play. Jeff Mullen dialed it up, and the lads brought it home. Friedgen took responsibility for the loss."They played a lot better than us in the first half and that's my fault," Friedgen said. "Crowd noise was a factor, but once we adapted to that, we came back and fought hard in the second half." Courtesy of the Associated Press. Much has been made of Jeff Mullen and his ability, or lack thereof, to coordinate the WVU attack. After three games, the Mountaineers are still undefeated, a solid sign that Mullen is very capable. Suddenly, Geno Smith, Noel Devine, and Tavon Austin are the new triplets. One can only wonder how the original triplets, Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin feel about that development. Add insult to injury to the originals, being supplanted by players from West Virginia no less. In their day the triplets were the toast of football, that day has come and gone. While not the toast of football, yet, the new triplets are something to behold. Smith posted the following numbers Saturday, 19 completions from 29 attempts for 268 yards and four touchdowns. At one point Smith was 10-for-10 with 173 yards, and three touchdowns. That was before the second quarter was three minutes old. Smith finished the game with a 65 percent completion percentage, impressive by most Buffalo Bills jersey
quarterback standards. Smith entered the game with a 72 percent completion percentage; unbelievably Smith may actually be human. Austin showed seven receptions for 107 yards and two touchdown receptions. Suffice to say that the Austin experiment at wide receiver is a success. Austin is projected to break the 1,000-yard barrier as a receiver. Noel Devine posted a yeoman like performance with 27 carries for 131 yards, if those stats can be called yeoman like. The irony is, when speaking of Devine, they actually are. Devine has yet to truly break out in a game this year. Having witnessed Devineability starting as a freshman through his senior year, it is only a matter of time before lightening strikes, and Devine explodes in a game. The Saturday game against Maryland gave WVU fans something else to protest. The Mountaineers did an about face and started strong, something they had not done in their first two games. Only to finish weak, the WVU football team has yet to play a complete four quarters of football. Although, leading 28-0 in the third quarter lends itself to a sense of security. Still, having watched the Mountaineer football team, one gets the sense that the team is looking for a challenge. Arguably, the biggest test of the Mountaineer football team in 2010 waits in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Nevertheless, that is a story for another day. WVU has started 3-0, the first time that has happened in the Bill Stewart era. Impressive by most fan standards, yet, it is not enough for Mountaineer Nation. Mountaineer fans are some of the most loyal in all of college Carolina Panthers jersey
football. Understand that reality seldom is part of the equation when said fans evaluate the latest Mountaineer performance. WVU still represents the team with the most wins in the FBS without a national title. Mountaineer fans await their day to regale themselves in college footballultimate destiny. Fair or not, patience is no longer an accepted response to Mountaineer football. Rest assured Bill Stewart and his lads are aware, and are preparing to rectify the situation. As fans, we need to step back and enjoy the ride; it will all be over soon enough.

2011年1月18日星期二

18 Jan 11 UNC Tar Heels Football Suspensions Update: What Does It Mean If Heels Don't Win?

Streeter Lecka/Getty ImagesThe NCAA disclosed a ruling on two North Carolina football players Wednesday, taking the next step in an investigation that has been ongoing since July. The NCAA ruled that cornerback Kendric Burney and safety Deunta Williams, both seniors, have to miss more games and pay back benefits to charity. The NCAA student-athlete reinstatement staff decided that Burney had received $1,333 in agent benefits stemming from trips to California, Atlanta, and Las Vegas. In order to regain his eligibility, Burney must sit out an additionalWashington Redskins jersey
four gamesmaking it six totaland pay $575.19 to a charity of his choice. Williams will miss two more gamesfour totaland pay $450.67 to a charity of his choice after receiving, according to the NCAA, $1,426 in benefits after making two reported trips to California. For now, thatall we know. UNC athletic director Dick Baddour said the school will appeal the suspensions, but the NCAA has zero reason for overturning its initial ruling. While I respect the NCAA process, I believe the penalties to be unduly harsh given the individual circumstances in these cases, Baddour said. Four to six games isntoo harsh for a player who broke NCAA rules and received free benefits from an agent if thatthe type of message the association wants to send.Shoot, Georgia wide receiver A.J. Green received a four-game ban for selling his own jersey to a man who proclaims he isnan agent. The NCAA claimed otherwise, and forced Green to sit. While any progress is joyfully accepted in Chapel Hill, the decisions on Burney and Williams doneven come close to wrapping up this investigation. Defensive starters Marvin Austin, Robert Quinn, Charles Brown, and DaNorris Searcy all remain sidelined. Wide receiver Greg Little and running back Ryan Houston also remain under investigation and will not play for the time being. The problem is that unless North Carolina turns its season around quicklyand quickly would include winning the must-win game at Rutgers this weekall of this news will be irrelevant. Nobody knows the fate of the remaining players under investigation, Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
but they presumably will not be eligible to play before Williams does in Week 5. And by then, Carolinaseason may be all but over, Butch Davis job all but gone. The 0-2 Tar Heels go to Rutgers this weekend, and they had better come out on Saturday like their season depends on it, because it does. If Carolina falls to 0-3, it returns home to face a dangerous East Carolina team that Butch Davis has beaten only once since coming to Chapel Hill.There are few games on North Carolinaschedule as important to the instate football fans than Carolina-ECU, and the Pirates will come to Chapel Hill ready to roll. You can count on that. The only silver lining is that Carolina will have played only one ACC gamea loss to Georgia Techwhen Williams returns to a defense that is begging for stability. The Tar Heels will still have seven ACC games left to play, plenty to remain competitive in the conference and compete for a conference crown. Carolina would probably have to go 6-1 in ACC games the rest of the waymaking the Heels 6-2 in ACC play for the yearin order to have a shot at playing in the Orange Bowl. For a season that started out with dark-horse national title talk, winning the ACC is the only way Carolina will get to a BCS bowl this season. Getting Williams back will help the defense regain some confidence and leadership, two things it greatly lacked last weekend against the Yellow Jackets. Georgia Techtriple option exposed Carolinainexperience as the Tar Heels repeatedly blew assignments and allowed quarterback Josh Nesbitt to execute his offense at will. The fact that Carolinadefense is its weak link is shocking, but thatexactly what these investigations have done to the program.Quarterback T.J. Yates has done his part in the first two games, showing improvement and a sense of urgency and command that he missed last year. Yates gross numbers will not jump off the page. Were not getting him mixed up with Denard Robinson here, OK. But the reason why Yates has kept Carolina in both of its games is because he has shown the ability to make much better decisions with the football. If the throw he wants isnthere, henot forcing it. Hell check it down and gain three yards, hell tuck it and run, or at worst he will throw it away. But theregoing to come a time, and that time is probably Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
this weekend, when Yates will have to gamble on some throws in an attempt to put this team on his back by putting points on the board. He knows what the defense is right now, and itnot the version he played with last year. But somehow, someway, Carolina will have to win while waiting for the NCAA to wrap up its investigation. If not, the investigation, much like a once-promising season, wonmean a thing. Andfor the seniors that abided by the rulesthat would be a shame.

2011年1月15日星期六

15 Jan 11 "St. Louis Rams" New (Old) Coach, Old (New) Quarterback in Place for Rams

Most Rams fans got what they wanted when coach Scott Linehan was fired after the team;s 31-14 loss to Buffalo last Sunday. They also got what they wanted when former starting quarterback Marc Bulger was reinstated for the rest of the season by interim head coach Jim Haslett.Commentary: Linehan was dismal during his tenure with the Rams, going 3-17 over his final 20 games. Linehan;s firing probably came a season too late, but that;s topic for another debate. The selection of Haslett to replace Linehan likely doesn;t have Rams fans doing cartwheels in St. Louis, but what else was the team going to do? Let;s face it, the only options the Rams had were Haslett and offensive coordinator Al Saunders.At least Haslett, who's familiar with the personnel, is the polar opposite of Linehan. Haslett, the ex-New Orleans head coach, won;t take a lack of effort without issuing some colorful expletives, benching a player and letting him know that things had better change or else. And at least the team has Bulger back behind center, where he belongs. You don;t pay a Indianapolis Colts jersey
guy $65 million to hold a clipboard.Fan Pulse: Most Rams fans seem glad that Linehan is gone, that Bulger is back at QB and that things can return to normal in St. Louis. Fan posts have hinted at the absurdity of benching the franchise quarterback in Bulger and that Haslett is probably the best coaching option at the present time.Fantasy Football Impact: With Bulger back and players like Steven Jackson and Torry Holt hopefully having enough pride to want to earn back some league respect, things should improve for their fantasy football owners. That;s not to say that you should start Bulger this week or even next, but don;t be surprised if he starts to put up numbers that more closely resemble his performance from years past.Injury Watch: Tight end Randy McMichael;s ankle injury is serious and might cost him the rest of the season. Cornerback Tye Hill;s knee injury is severe enough to sideline him for several weeks. (2)

2011年1月13日星期四

14 Jan 11 The Carolina Panthers signed offensive lineman Mike Wahle and cornerback Ken Lucas to long-term contracts March 5 2005

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina - The Carolina Panthers signed offensive lineman Mike Wahle and cornerback Ken Lucas to long-term contracts, the most aggressive single day of free agent acquisitions in franchise history. Wahle, who spent 7 seasons in Green Bay, signed a 5 year deal worth about $25 million. Lucas, Miami Dolphins jersey
a 3 year starter in Seattle, signed a 6 year contract. Terms on Lucas' deal were not immediately available, but his signing bonus was believed to be $13 million. The Panthers didn't have to work very hard to sign either player. Both Wahle and Lucas made Carolina their first and only recruiting visit and came in hoping to get quick deals. Lucas said he desperately wanted to join Carolina's vaunted defense to play behind Julius Peppers and Kris Jenkins. Lucas was Seattle's 2nd round draft pick in 2001. He started 47 games and has 11 career interceptions. Lucas had 6 picks last season, tying him with Carolina CB Chris Gamble for most in the NFC. Now, he may push Gamble out of a starting job. Panthers coach John Fox said Lucas will start for Carolina, and Gamble and Ricky Manning Jr. will have to battle for the other slot. Gamble was a first-round draft pick last season, and Manning is best known for his 3 INTs against Philadelphia in the 2004 NFC championship game. Whale said winning a Super Bowl is his top priority and he believed he had a better shot at doing that with Carolina. The Panthers were the 2003 NFC champions, but lost to New England in the Super Bowl. The Packers were forced to release Wahle earlier this week in a salary cap move. Considered one of the top free-agent offensive linemen, he can play guard or tackle. The Panthers said they will start Wahle out at left guard. Because he is capable of playing anywhere on the line except center, the team is willing to move him around to find the best fit. Wahle has started 83 of 97 games in his career, including 64 straight. The signings are unusual for the Panthers, who have traditionally sat back during the first few days of free agency as teams frantically pursue new talent. Carolina has made a habit of waiting until the signing period calms down Minnesota Vikings
a bit, then combing through the leftovers. In addition, the Panthers said they were still optimistic they can re-sign LB Mark Fields. Originally thought to be an easy negotiation, he instead became a free agent. Carolina general manager Marty Hurney said he didn't know of any visits that Fields has lined up with other teams. Lastly, Fox said the Panthers would like WR Ricky Proehl to play another season and are waiting for Proehl to decide on his future.

14 Jan 11 The Carolina Panthers signed offensive lineman Mike Wahle and cornerback Ken Lucas to long-term contracts March 5 2005

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina - The Carolina Panthers signed offensive lineman Mike Wahle and cornerback Ken Lucas to long-term contracts, the most aggressive single day of free agent acquisitions in franchise history. Wahle, who spent 7 seasons in Green Bay, signed a 5 year deal worth about $25 million. Lucas, Miami Dolphins jersey
a 3 year starter in Seattle, signed a 6 year contract. Terms on Lucas' deal were not immediately available, but his signing bonus was believed to be $13 million. The Panthers didn't have to work very hard to sign either player. Both Wahle and Lucas made Carolina their first and only recruiting visit and came in hoping to get quick deals. Lucas said he desperately wanted to join Carolina's vaunted defense to play behind Julius Peppers and Kris Jenkins. Lucas was Seattle's 2nd round draft pick in 2001. He started 47 games and has 11 career interceptions. Lucas had 6 picks last season, tying him with Carolina CB Chris Gamble for most in the NFC. Now, he may push Gamble out of a starting job. Panthers coach John Fox said Lucas will start for Carolina, and Gamble and Ricky Manning Jr. will have to battle for the other slot. Gamble was a first-round draft pick last season, and Manning is best known for his 3 INTs against Philadelphia in the 2004 NFC championship game. Whale said winning a Super Bowl is his top priority and he believed he had a better shot at doing that with Carolina. The Panthers were the 2003 NFC champions, but lost to New England in the Super Bowl. The Packers were forced to release Wahle earlier this week in a salary cap move. Considered one of the top free-agent offensive linemen, he can play guard or tackle. The Panthers said they will start Wahle out at left guard. Because he is capable of playing anywhere on the line except center, the team is willing to move him around to find the best fit. Wahle has started 83 of 97 games in his career, including 64 straight. The signings are unusual for the Panthers, who have traditionally sat back during the first few days of free agency as teams frantically pursue new talent. Carolina has made a habit of waiting until the signing period calms down Minnesota Vikings
a bit, then combing through the leftovers. In addition, the Panthers said they were still optimistic they can re-sign LB Mark Fields. Originally thought to be an easy negotiation, he instead became a free agent. Carolina general manager Marty Hurney said he didn't know of any visits that Fields has lined up with other teams. Lastly, Fox said the Panthers would like WR Ricky Proehl to play another season and are waiting for Proehl to decide on his future.

2011年1月12日星期三

13 Jan 11 Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers: We'll Get 'Em Next Year

Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesWhy?Is it because having two good teams in L.A. is one too many? Is it because the Clippers enjoyed one great year in 2006 and are only allowed one every century or so? Why do the basketball gods dislike the Clippers so much?The team was coming together and Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
playing exciting basketball, which was motivated in part by a goal to reach .500 before Blake Griffin's return. That return was scheduled to be later this month. Turns out we won't see Griffin until the 2010-2011 season.Why?An examination Tuesday revealed his recovery wasn't progressing properly, the Clippers announced Wednesday in a statement. Apparently Griffin was increasing his workload in preparation for his return and felt pain in his knee. Griffin and the team opted for surgery, which puts an end to his season before it ever began.Repeat after me, Clipper fans: There is no curse. Again: There is no curse. Once more: There is no curse!? There is, however, unbelievably bad luck. The Clippers have had their share.However, it's time for the Clipper faithful to look for the good in today's announcement. You have to squint hard, tilt your head just so, and not move too much, but good news is there.Now with Griffin officially not debuting this year, we can put all the silly Marcus Camby trade rumors to bed. "Ponce de la Camby" is here this season and hopefully beyond. Sit your young basketball player down in front of the TV, and tell him to watch Camby if you want him or her to learn how to defend.Without Griffin, the team won't have to worry about adjusting to his game wReebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
hile the games matter. This team has come together, and although they would have certainly adjusted to Griffin, this announcement makes it clear that this is the team this year, for better or worse.Finally, the core of this group that's playing exciting basketball is under contract for next year. We won't get to see a Davis, Gordon, Kaman, Thornton, and Griffin starting five this year, but we will next.Right, basketball gods?

12 Jan 11 NBA All-Star Roster Revealed, Who Just Missed Out?

Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesThe NBA All-Star rosters are set. The All-Star Starters are:West:F- Carmelo AnthonyF - Tim DuncanC- Amar StoudemireG Steve NashG Kobe BryantReserves: Deron Williams G, Chris Paul G, Pau Gasol F, Kevin Durant F, Dirk Nowitzki F, Zach Randolph F, Arizona Cardinals jersey
and Brandon Roy G.East:F Kevin GarnettF Lebron JamesC Dwight HowardG Dwayne WadeG Allen IversonReserves: Rajon Rondo G, Derrick Rose G, Joe Johnson G, Paul Pierce F, Chris Bosh F, Gerald Wallace F, Al Horford CNow every time the All-Star rosters are released, there are always speculations as to who deserved to be there.Guard Chauncey Billups being the biggest All-Star snub. Many overlook Billups because of the amazing improvement of Carmelo Anthony, but Chauncey is one of the biggest reason the Nuggets are contenders in the West.Billups brings leadership, and great three point shooting. On the season Billups averages 19.2 points and 5.9 assist per game and when in the lineup the Nuggets are 28-9.Guard Jamal Crawford, a big player for the Hawks off the bench. Jamal this season is scoring 17.4 points off the bench, and it hard to slow a player of his caliber down when he is hot.I know rookies don really make it to All-Star game but guard Tyreke Evans has played amazing for the Sacramento Kings. Just last season the Kings were (17-65), this season so far their (16-28). Tyreke averages 20.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assist per game. Not to mention that Kevin Martin has only played in 12 games this season thus far.Center Shaquille ONeal has been to Atlanta Falcons jersey
14 straight All-Star games. Due to his inability to produce this season, his streak has ended. This season Shaq has accumulated 11.3 points, and 6.6 rebounds; both career lows for the 7-0 center.However, the All-Star roster presents very well deserved bid despite Iverson All-Star birth. The All-Star game will be jam packed with a lot of entertainment.Other players the just missed: Josh Smith F, Joakim Noah C, David Lee F/C, Monta Ellis G, Antawn Jamison F, and Chris Kaman C.

12 Jan 11 NBA All-Star Roster Revealed, Who Just Missed Out?

Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesThe NBA All-Star rosters are set. The All-Star Starters are:West:F- Carmelo AnthonyF - Tim DuncanC- Amar StoudemireG Steve NashG Kobe BryantReserves: Deron Williams G, Chris Paul G, Pau Gasol F, Kevin Durant F, Dirk Nowitzki F, Zach Randolph F, Arizona Cardinals jersey
and Brandon Roy G.East:F Kevin GarnettF Lebron JamesC Dwight HowardG Dwayne WadeG Allen IversonReserves: Rajon Rondo G, Derrick Rose G, Joe Johnson G, Paul Pierce F, Chris Bosh F, Gerald Wallace F, Al Horford CNow every time the All-Star rosters are released, there are always speculations as to who deserved to be there.Guard Chauncey Billups being the biggest All-Star snub. Many overlook Billups because of the amazing improvement of Carmelo Anthony, but Chauncey is one of the biggest reason the Nuggets are contenders in the West.Billups brings leadership, and great three point shooting. On the season Billups averages 19.2 points and 5.9 assist per game and when in the lineup the Nuggets are 28-9.Guard Jamal Crawford, a big player for the Hawks off the bench. Jamal this season is scoring 17.4 points off the bench, and it hard to slow a player of his caliber down when he is hot.I know rookies don really make it to All-Star game but guard Tyreke Evans has played amazing for the Sacramento Kings. Just last season the Kings were (17-65), this season so far their (16-28). Tyreke averages 20.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assist per game. Not to mention that Kevin Martin has only played in 12 games this season thus far.Center Shaquille ONeal has been to Atlanta Falcons jersey
14 straight All-Star games. Due to his inability to produce this season, his streak has ended. This season Shaq has accumulated 11.3 points, and 6.6 rebounds; both career lows for the 7-0 center.However, the All-Star roster presents very well deserved bid despite Iverson All-Star birth. The All-Star game will be jam packed with a lot of entertainment.Other players the just missed: Josh Smith F, Joakim Noah C, David Lee F/C, Monta Ellis G, Antawn Jamison F, and Chris Kaman C.

12 Jan 11 What If the Lakers Had Never Traded Shaquille O'Neal?

Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesAfter inking a seven year, $121 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996, Shaquille O'Neal, with the help of Kobe Bryant, lead his new team to three consecutive NBA titles from 2000-2002.The Lakers were bounced out of the playoffs by the San Antonio Spurs in '03, but reached the Finals in '04, where they lost to the overachieving Detroit Pistons in five games.In the summer of '04, management decided to break up the dynamic duo of Shaq and Kobe, who were constantly feuding with one another, and rebuild the team around the much-younger Bryant. O'Neal was traded to the Miami Heat in exchange for Caron Butler, Lamar Odom, Brian Grant, and a future first-round draft pick (Jordan Farmar).Without Shaq, the Lakers missed the playoffs in '05, suffered first-round exits the following two years, lost in the finals in '08, and then won it all in '09. So basically, the Lakers didn't turn into a perennial lottery team by trading O'Neal, but just imagine what may have happened if the deal had never went down.What if Shaq and Kobe could have worked out their differences and had remained the best of friends and what if head coach Phil Jackson didn't take a one-year leave?Just how many more championships could they have won together? At least two or three.It would have been pretty interesting to watch Shaq and Kobe switch roles. Shaq would have went from "The Man" of the team to Kobe's superstar sidekick, much like he did in Miami with Dwyane Wade.Speaking of D-Wade, he might have been ringless today if he had never joined forces with Shaq. But then again, the Heat could have packaged Odom, Butler, and Grant and acquired another star that Wade could have teamed with to win a title.You never know.It's unclear what role players may have been brought in to surround the Kobe-Shaq duo.It definetley would have been interesting to see Karl Malone and Gary Payton stick around for at least another year. Malone might have retired with a championship and Payton might have gotten his ring in L.A. instead of Miami.You probably would have seen the Lakers sign fairly inexpensive veterans like Alonzo Mourning, who backed up Shaq in Miami, Michael Finley and Antonio McDyess.And if the Lakers hadn't traded Shaq, they likely would have owned a lower pick in the '05 draft meaning they could have taken either Danny Granger, Nate Robinson or David Lee instead of Andrew Bynum.A trio of Kobe, Shaq, and Granger wouldn't have quite been Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy, but it would have led the Lakers to tons of victories.But does it really matter who the role players would have been? The Lakers won three titles with a non-All-Star supporting cast that included guys like Derek Fisher, Brian Shaw, and Rick Fox.As long as they had a healthy Shaq and Kobe, the Lakers could have won with a bunch of middle school kids filling in as the role players.Yes, the Lakers may have hung a few more championship banners in Staples Center if Shaq was never sent packing, but on the other hand, it could have turned out to be a total disaster. We'll never know what may have happened.Hindsight is 20/20.

2011年1月10日星期一

10 Jan 11 Ray Allen Rediscovers Shooting Touch in Win over Los Angeles Lakers

Streeter Lecka/Getty ImagesNo one said that winning was pretty as evidentin the Boston Celtics win over the Lakers last night.The Celtics stayed true to their nature byrelinquishing an 11-point lead in the third quarter. This time however the outcomewas different thanks to RayAllen's prolific shooting in the first three quarters.Ray Indianapolis Colts jersey
Allen was finally able to exhale afterThursday's 3pm deadline and it showed in his play.Through it all he was a model citizen, he stayed healthy and logged the most minutes of the big three. His dunk and subsequent foul called on Shannon Brown showed the vehemence in his excitement; he had survived the trade rumours.He even showed a renewed defensive zestby makingthe criticalstop on Derek Fishers' desperation heaveto preserve the victory. This is the Ray Allen the Celtics hope to see throughout the playoffs; the real decisions about his future will come after that.Danny Ainge understands that he will not have the money to offer a LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh, andpossibly even Joe Johnson. The real coup could come from the next level of stars that will be available. Boston has a bunch of expiring contractsand because of their recent success can possibly lure these free-agents.Tony Allen, Brian Scalabrine, Shelden Williams, Marquis Daniels, Nate Robinson,Ray Allen, and MarcusLandry are all free agents in waiting. The Celtics arepossibly only going to offer contracts to Ray Allen, Marquis Daniels, and Nate Robinson out of that group. Danny will give each a qualifying offer and spend the bulk of his time trying to find a younger more athletic shooting guard.The Memphis Grizzlies let Rudy Gay's rookie contract expire and he will explore the open market. He has been the consummate pro as evident of Memphis' run to get into the playoffs and their ability to protecttheir homecourt. Ray might be able to convince him to come to Boston because of their Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
University of Connecticut ties. Heck, Ray may even be willing to come of the bench to get him in Celtic green.Memphis management made a shrewd move and received Ronnie Brewer from the Utah Jazz in a last minute deal. He is also arestricted free agent and may be insurance in case Rudy decides to leave.Richard Jefferson has not been able to find his basketball groove in San Antonio. Gregg Popovich tried desperately to trade him but their were no takers for his services. The Western conference has been unkind to his East coast game. Jefferson would be an upgrade from Tony Allen.He is a very good defender and has had Finals experience. Don't be surprised if the San Antonio Spurs buy him out and the Boston Celtics make a run at him.Anthony Morrow of the Golden State warriors brings length and a great shooting stroke to the game. He also has the ability to stretch the defense and could be a great two guard to add to the second unit. This will allow Ray to get even more rest next year and he could mentor Morrow in the Celtic way.Adam Morrison of the Los Angeles Kansas City Chiefs jersey
Lakers could be Brian Scalabrine's replacement;a spot up shooter with younger legs. He could also spell Ray Allen or Paul Pierce in a pinch.John Salmons of the Milwaukee Bucks could finally fill the role that James Posey had, a solid defender who can stretch the defense with his shooting.Chris Douglas-Roberts, Jarvis Hayes, and Bobby Simmons to name a few more.Danny Ainge has a tough decision to make next year but until then he will role the dice with Ray Allen's rediscovered shooting touch.

2011年1月9日星期日

9 Jan 11 Fantasy Basketball Box Score Breakouts – 2/28/10

Al Bello/Getty ImagesHere a look at some fantasy basketball players that blew up the box score last night. DeJuan Blair, San Antonio Spurs Blair had 14 points and 7 boards against the Suns. He's a decent option in daily leagues for points, rebounds, and field goal percentage.Arron Afflalo, Denver Nuggets Afflalo had 16 points against the Lakers. He's a decent daily option for points, and three-pointers.Al Thornton, Washington Wizards Thornton had 20 points against the Nets. He's played at a high level and should be in most lineups.Yi Jianlian, New Jersey Nets Yi went off with 20 points and 19 rebounds. Kudos to you if you had him in your lineup. Hopefully this is a sign of things to come.Jerry Stackhouse, Milwaukee Bucks Stack had 20 points for the Bucks. He's really turned back the clock averaging Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
15 points over his last four games.Rafer Alston, Miami Heat Rafer had 15 points last night. He's not really a fantasy option.J.J. Redick, Orlando Magic J.J. also had 15 points. He's not terribly consistent.Serge Ibaka, Oklahoma City Thunder Ibaka had a double-double (12 points, 10 rebounds). He's not productive enough.Drew Gooden, Los Angeles Clippers Gooden had 17 points and 8 rebounds for the Clippers. He's been a real force for them.Marcus Thornton, New Orleans Hornets Thornton went for 21 points last night. He's a great option right now despite the 6-15 shooting.

2011年1月8日星期六

8 Jan 11 Boston Celtics Take Two Game Win Streak on the Road

Elsa/Getty ImagesAfter failing to measure up to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday the Boston Celtics have taken advantage of playing on their home court. They have gotten back to what they consider to be Celtic basketballa hustling, physical defensive unit that covers up for the lack of athleticism on Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
the team.The Celtics have now beaten the Detroit Pistons and the New York Knicks, two teams that have no hope of playing beyond the regular season.Next, the Celtics face a tough three game road trip that includes the Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, and the Utah Jazz.It seems like Boston's only opportunity for a successful road trip is to win in Houston.Houston will probably test Boston's resolve the most because of the tenacity with which they approachdefense. We'll see if the Celtics continue to make the "hockey pass" that Doc Rivers loves so much.Both teams are battling injuries, though Houston is in worse shape.The Rockets added scorer Kevin Martin at the trading deadline, but lost their heart and soul Carl Landry to Sacramento in the process.This has taken a lot of the pressure off of Trevor Ariza and he seems to be playing a more free brand of basketball.Rondo will have to contend with a potentially speedier guard in Aaron Brooks who can attack the rim as well as shoot the three. He will have to play honest defense in order to slow down thisReebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
water bug.Houston is presently the 10th seed in the western conference, so Boston cannot take them lightly.The Celtics will have to take advantage of their inside presence and force Houston to double down low.Kevin Garnett said something inlast night'spresser that I'd never heard before, a public acknowledgement of Rajon Rondo as an emerging scorer on the team.KG also spoke of how Rondo provides additional balance to the offensive attackand is now takingsome pressure off of Paul Pierce, himself, and Ray Allen.In spite of Rondo's newfound offensive game, he still must learn to recognize when to give the ball to a struggling teammate and how to find the hot hand; he sometimes falls in love with the spectacular pass instead of keeping it simple.Once he takes that step he will be the hall-of-famer that Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Tommy Heinsohn predicted he would be before he ever played his first NBA game.The Celtics like to say that they area work in progress and are not worried about their perceived lack of interest by the public.This weekends' road trip will tell if the progress made from this two game win streak against non-playoff teams translates when they face stiffer competition.