With the 2014 season already 4 days old, I need to get my West outlook out. For the first time since MJ's Bulls the West has gone consecutive years without a the Larry O'Brien trophy. Now the West will try to keep Lebron & friends from becoming a dynasty. Like the dozen seasons before though the West continues to be packed with good clubs. Even when the Least improved and now can even go 5 deep in legit contenders, they still have clubs that will fall sub par yet make the post season while winning teams in the West will have to see them from home.
Even though they were 1 rebound or 1 free throw away from their fifth title, the Spurs are not even the top favorites in the West, the young exciting guns from Golden State are even in the mix, along with Dwightmare new stomping grounds, a weaker OKC, but the shocker to me is the new LA Kings that with newly accomplished head coach Doc Rivers seems to be the reason most "experts" are picking them to finally get past the 2nd round and beyond. Here are my thoughts, from worst to first.
#15 Phoenix Suns. Last Year 25-57 missed playoffs for 4th time in 5 years
Projected Finish: 22-60, 4th consecutive lottery
Dragic and Frye are the sole remaining members of the last time the Suns made it to the post season. Once they traded Gortat it's obvious the team is not looking to make the playoffs but rebuild. Starting by winning coveted young guard Eric Bledsoe is not a bad place to start. The Suns are young and will also have a rookie coach, still they have some nice young pieces that given a few years and correct guidance should develop quiet nicely, just don't hold your breath this season.
#14 Shaqamento Kings. Last Year 28-54, missed playoffs, 7th straight season
Projected Outlook: 24-58, 8th consecutive lotto trip
Besides a nice collection of young talent, the Kings still employ some the league's best fans and will not have to worry about losing their beloved team this season. The Kings parted ways with former ROY Tyreke Evans and have secured troubled big man Cousins as it's cornerstone. Surrounding him are some talented players that will bring Sac Town back to fun hoops and while they'll get some wins along the way, it won't be enough just yet.
#13 Utah Jazz. Last Year 43-59, just missed playoffs on last day
Projected Outlook: 32-50, miss playoffs again
The Jazz lost quality big men Big Al and Millsap along with making some moves that points to rebuilding. Even without legendary Coach Sloan, it just feels like the same old Jazz teams that no matter the players give their fans some good old fashion blue collar effort. It won't be enough to challenge for the playoffs in the ever tough West.
#12 New Orleans Pelicans. Last Year 27-55, miss playoffs
Projected Outlook: 34-48, still miss playoffs but much improved if healthy
Big things are expected from the the Big Easy with the addition of All Star Jrue Holiday and former ROY Tyreke Evans to boost their young star Gordon and Davis. On paper they look playoff bound, but what do Evans, Gordon, & Davis have in common? Except for the first season for Gordon/Evans, neither player has played more than 65 games. That is why I'm not sold on their renew success, I still think injuries will plague this talented young team, who already have their first casualty with long bomber Anderson being out for a few weeks. Let's hope for a healthy season and for the former rising star to bounce back.
#11 Minnesota Timberwolves. Last Year 31-51, still no Post KG post season
Projected Outlook: 39-43, even with a healthy Love, not quite there yet
Minny was hammered with injuries last year and have already started on wrong foot with Buddinger being out indefinately. Best PF in the game returns though and should be enough difference to get some Ws. Minny has a solid projected starting lineup even without Buddinger, but their bench remains unproven sans ex champ Barea. Playing in a tough division like the Northwest doesn't help either with tough home teams like Utah, Denver, and Rip City and West powerhouse OKC. In the East they'd be top 6.
#10 Dallas Mavericks. Last Year 41-41 missed playoffs for first time since 2000
Projected Outlook: 40-42, Not enough for post season
The only other champ in the Miami big three era has fallen from grace and struggled to get back to the elite. The former champs will be without a quarter back for a few weeks and their remaining glory days hold ups including Hall of Fame bound Dunking Dutchman are in the twilight of their careers. At full strength they should be competitive and will win their share of big games, too many good teams in the West though and a very tough division will again keep them home in summer.
#9 Portland Trailblazers. Last Year 33-49, missed playoffs
Projected Outlook: 44-38, miss post season by hair, or sneak in
Rip City is expected to be playoff bound and a scary team come playoff time. Health plays big on every team, but more when a team has history of being derailed by the bug. Rip City will continue to be good at home, and the addition of Mo Williams is nice just not enough to call their bench elite. With luck on their side, they could well sneak into the playoffs.
#8 Houston Rockets. Last Year 45-37, 8th seed, lost to hobbled OKC, hurt Westbrook
Projected Outlook: 44-38, like LA last year get beat by Spurs, but put up bigger fight.
Dwight new team is considered a favorite to go all the way. Now I'm not hating, judging by their schedule I came up with this win total, and even I was shocked with it. Also the 6-8 seed are only separated by 2 games, Houston can easily end up #6. Like Lakers last year on paper they look scary but we all know that means squat if they can't gel. On the plus side, Dwight already looks happy to be there just on the promo pics alone, he just didn't look good in purple & gold. A motivated Dwight should make plenty of difference, but both stars still play a different game. For those who have dared to call them Shaq/Kobe 2.0, just must be smokin', forget the Kobe/Beard comparisons, especially in Mamba's years with Diesel, Dwight is nowhere near the offense powerhouse Shaq was.
#7 Denver Nuggets. Last Year 57-25. 4th Seed, best single season ever, still lost in opening round
Projected Outlook: 45-37, one and done.
The main question in Mile High is how will Zen alumni Brian Shaw do as head coach. He's got a collection that can light it up on any given night and one of the toughest places to play. Even with the loss of All Star Iguodala, Denver should still be a nightmare for opponents as they're really not known for their defense and add a streaky bench mobber in Krypto Nate to add to the run & gun style.
#6 Los Angeles Lakers. Last Year 45-37, squeezed into playoffs, swept in forgetful fashion.
Projected Outlook: 46-36, Unpredictable but not Final Four material.
The demise of the Lakers has started and the dawning of the Clipper era is upon us. Or so I keep reading. With the passing of the great Dr. Buss, the new heads behind the storied franchise have not made much to boost confidence. The last time there was so low expectations was when Shaq was ran off, I mean, traded to LeKings place. That's not a bad thing, hell a trip to the playoff and one single win is already an improvement from last years well documented disaster. The fact that they're not expected to be even be a threat should allow the Lake Show to play more loose and with less pressure. If Mamba can come back and do what he does best on occasion, much the the chagrin of hater, the 16 time former Champions will be back in the post season, Kobe will still only have one lotto team in his resume. MJ and LBJ each have two, if any one's is counting. At least already, this squad looks happy to be in LA.
#5 Golden State Warriors. Last Year 47-35, only team in West to get wins vs Spurs in playoffs.
Projected Outlook: 51-31, back to semis
The City's surprise new darlings are expected to make some noise this year and are even considered favorites over the old reigning West champs Spurs. With the addition of defensive ace AI, a healthy Bogut, and playoff tested young stars is no wonder the bay area is excited. The Warriors are gonna be fun to watch and tough to play against, but won't be sneaking up on anyone this year. Let's hope Curry doesn't get snubbed from the ALL NBA team this year if he continues his stellar play. The 4/5 match will be a dandy come April.
#4 Los Angeles Clippers. Last Year 56-26, 1st ever division crown, still exited in opening round
Projected Outlook: 52-30, no change in playoffs.
The heavily favorite entering in this season is actually weaker than last year, but with the addition of ex Leprechaun head man Doc Rivers just about every expert has them coming out of the West. Apparently the addition of Riddick, Dudley, Mullens, and Collison have made them a powerhouse as it will allow CP3 to just drive and dish and these guys will just hit shot after shot after shot. Question. Are any of these guys know for their D? Riddick is a great competitor with a sweet shot, but I don't think he's gonna strike fear in the likes of Durant, or any of the Spurs wings, even the Warriors scoring duo. Butler and Bledsoe last years were defensive minded, these players are not, the addition of Doc does not make them all of a sudden the '08 Celtics. Their bigs are still mainly a highlight reel who will still choke against skilled big counterparts such as Timmy, Z Bo, or the Gasol brothers. Sorry Clip fans, but at your team's best, they still fall shot.
#3 Memphis Grizzlies. Last Year 56-26, First ever Final Four
Projected Outlook: 55-27, Semis
The one thing that could totally screw up my outlook is how different will they be without Lionel Hollins. I still can't believe they let him go, but still they have pretty much the same team as last year plus they get Mike Miller back who should have some valuable advice against the reigning champs. If the Grizz can keep the same defensive commitment, they should pick up where they left off, but with a healthy Westbrook, it may be tougher to get back to the Final Four. At this outlook, they would face the Lake show in the first round, where an inspired Mamba and Gasol vs. Gasol will make for an awesome series with an upset possible.
#2 Oklahoma City Thunder. Last Year 60-22, Lost Westbrook & hope to repeat as West champs
Projected Outlook: 56-26, return to Final Four.
Durant says he's tired of coming up 2nd. Even with a weaker squad than in the last two years, when healthy, the Thunder's dynamic duo is more than enough to get wins. Regular season wise, KD and company should win even without Westbrook for the first weeks. With Russell return, they should be among the best again, the question will be the playoffs, just how far can they go riding those two? If Ibaka can become the third musketeer or someone else can step up to be that extra piece, OKC should be contending again.
#1 San Antonio Spurs. Last Year 58-24, gave away the trophy.
Projected Outlook: 60-22, return to big dance very probable.
The Spurs unusual choke in the Finals has been well documented. With the core returning, the addition of Belinelli and a healthy & looking for redemption Manu a return to the Finals for the silver and black is not out of reach. The main thing would be health, this is an aging team. Of course this "old" team continues to defy age year after year and this one should be no different. I don't think there is any club that can handle resting their stars and picking important wins like the Spurs do and turn it up when it counts. The Spurs are flying low according to "experts" but I know better.
West Playoffs
SAN
HOU SAN
SAN
LAC GS
GS
SAN
OKC
DEN OKC
OKC
MEM LAL
LAL
Have a great season hoop fans! Go Lakers!!
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Eestern Outlook
Alright hoop fans, our favorite time of the year is upon us, opening night. For the fourth straight year, the Miami Thrice are still the team to beat, but I think anyone will agree that the gap has closed quite a bit and there's not one but 3 legit contenders in the east as well as young clubs that may not beat them, but will steal some games in the regular season and will make the opening round a challenge and not a cake walk. For fans and haters alike, it should be a fun season.
After going down the 2013-14 schedule day by day and calculating final win Tally, based on talent, past history (curses?), and emotional games I came up with the following. Let's start in the Least that while improved, still will employ playoff bound team with losing records. From worst to first, here they are:
#15 Orlando Magic. Last Year: 20-62 missed playoffs for first time in 7 years.
Projected finish: 18-64, continue rebuilding, lotto bound again, get used to it.
Orlando has some young talent that are exiting to watch along with vets like Afflalo and contender hold up Nelson, but seriously, they're gonna be the kind of team that other teams use to rest some of their players, young core, no bench, long frustrating season again.
#14 Toronto Raptors: Last Year 34-48, 10 in Least, missed playoffs, 5th straight year
Projected finish: 20-62, miss playoffs for 6th straight year
I challenge any non-Raptor NBA fan to name the Raptors starters plus 6th man. Yeah, not very promising. While not horrible, I just don't think this collection of players will mesh together in time to even dent their conference. They'll contend but will have plenty shortcoming.
#13 Philadelphia 76ers: Last Year 34-48, 9th seed, missed playoffs
Projected finish: 21-61, miss playoffs
Gone is All-star Holiday and hopeful savior Bynum. Expectations are low for the Sixers, so I think any victory they can get will be cherished. Many questions await this ball club but I still don't believe they're the worst club in the Least, rookie sensation MCW has good size, speed and ability, together with Turner, Hawes, Young, and Anderson they should contend, specially if their Rook is able to play in control and work on turnover prone reputation. Last we heard other Rook Noel will not be available all season, hey, that means more touches for Kwame!
#12 Milwaukee Bucks: Last Year 38-44, 8th seed, swept by Super Friends
Projected Finish: 25-57, back to lotto
Mayo & Ellis traded places and Gumby will no longer be chucking up shots for the deer. This team can easily go and win in the low 30s, I feel they're gonna be very unpredictable and while they have some established vets, it's just not enough against an improving Least with younger players.
#11 Charlotte Bobcats: Last Year 21-61, missed playoffs
Projected Finish: 29-53, Not quite there yet, back to lotto
Mr. Jordan's club will play it's last season as the Kittens and go back to their more successful Hornet name, let's see if that transcends to a change in team culture. If healthy, the 'Cats should have a better season but still not really impose fear on anyone contending. Big Al gives them a legit go to big man and Kemba and MKG best years are yet to come. An improved bench led by vets Gordon and Sessions will make this the best 'Cat team since they made the playoffs in '10
#10 Leprechauns: Last Year 41-40, 7th seed, end of new big three era in bean town
Projected finish: 31-51, miss playoffs for first time since '07
Even without Rondo, Boston has a solid core that will not make things easy for opponents. One thing I find funny though is while the Lakers playoff hopes are questionable, there is no doubt the Leprechauns are headed back to the lotto according to majority opinion, yet, is not hot topic, even though it is the most decorated franchise in history, or so we keep hearing. Again the two most storied franchises, sure don't get judged the same.
#9 Atlanta Hawks: Last Year 44-38, 6th seed, dismissed by Pacers
Projected Finish: 32-50 could sneak into playoffs and be out again in first round
The Hawks six year post season run may come to an end not because they took a step back but because other teams got better. Still they should be in the playoff battle if only to get swept by one of the real contenders. The Hawks will look good against bottom feeders but fail to hang with the Varsity clubs
#8 Detroit Pistons: Last Year 29-53 missed playoffs for 3rd straight year
Projected Finish: 33-49, back to post season since '09
Only reason they make playoffs is they play in Least. Still it should be fun for the Motor City to get back to playoffs. The front line of Drummond, Monroe, and Smith is going to be a beast, add streaky shooters like Gumby and Mr. Big Shot you got a team, you're gonna have to take seriously. Improved play from role players will define how much noise Deeeeeeeetroit basketball will make.
#7 Cleveland Cavaliers: Last Year 24-58 curse of 'Bron continues
Projected Finish: 34-48, curse of 'Bron ends, well at least lotto trips end
Another team benefiting from playing in Least. None the less Kyrie has shown he is a bonafide star in this league and he will now the best collection of players with him in his young career. Jarret Jack brings a fearless attitude off the bench that will help young players, Clark's play last year earned him a chance to start in Cleveland if he can contribute it will turn out to be a good investment. They have the #1 pick Bennet and Waiters continues to improve. Now if former Laker Bynum can come in and use his size even in limited minutes it will open up opportunities. The possibility of a Heat/Cav first round series is now very possible, that would be epic.
#6 Washington Wizards: Last Year 29-53, missed playoffs
Projected Finish: 43-39, only other Least team with winning record besides top 5
With the newly acquired Polish Hammer in DC, the Wizards now become legit spoilers in Least and the Nation's capital a place with competitive basketball again. Wall & Beal are among the best back court duos and are not even halfway to their ceiling. The arrival of Gortat moves Nene to the 4 spot and gives the Wiz their own set of skilled twin towers. Add a selection of role wing men and you got an possibly exciting team in DC.
#5 New York Knicks: Last Year 54-28, 2nd seed, Atlantic Crown, lost in semis
Projected Finish: 57-25, tough 4/5 match up, toss up
The Knicks feel this is their year, on paper their state rivals Brooklyn looks better, and they can match the athleticism and speed of the top 3. Still NY will contend if healthy, they still have many experienced role players that unfortunately have their best years behind them but can just do enough to make a difference. It also feels that if they don't go deep in playoffs, the once perfect of marriage of Melo and NY will end in forgettable fashion. Good ball is back at the mecca, but also in Chicago & Indiana.
#4 Brooklyn Nets: Last Year 49-33, back to playoffs, first round exit
Projected Finish: 59-23, Atlantic Crown, 4/5 match up, toss up
On paper this team looks legit, but so did last years' Lakers, unlike Lake show though, the big time players DO want to be here. Unfortunately desire can't make you younger and this is an older team. But if healthy and if they find chemistry fast ala Boston '08, this will a team to be reckoned with. The starters are solid and their bench is solid, if as good as advertised the Nets will win the NY battle but fall short against a younger hungry Indy team.
#3 Miami Heat: Last Year 66-16, best in league, repeat champions
Projected Finish: 59-23, Southeast crown again, see below.
The 2 time defending champions are chasing dynasty status but now face not one by 4 legit threats and 4 more young squads that will make them work for their place in history. With an aging Wade, Allen, and questionable Beasley & Oden additions, other teams now have a chance to sneak up on the Heat and make them work for every W. As if being champions is not enough to put a target on your back, the Heat are hated, and I don't think any team would mind playing a part in their demise. That reason is why I have them not winning 60 games this year, they have played long post season for 3 years, other teams have improved and their target on the back just got bigger. Sure they still employ the best player in the game, but he can't do it all, Indy showed last year what a talented athletic wing can do to the reigning MVP, and they still have not fixed their nagging issues of PG and big man defense. The Heat are still favorites, c'mon it's the Heat, but the gap is closing fast.
#2 Chicago Bulls: Last year 45-37, 5th seed, lost in semis vs. Heat, broke their 27 game win streak
Projected Finish: 62-20, Final Four
Even without D Rose the Bulls remained competitive and were still a beast defensively. They were able to break the Heat's streak without their big guns and for 4 games give Miami all they had. Now their leader, the only other person to win MVP in the Lebron Heat ear is back, and ever better than before. Under Thibs the Bulls have been a very good regular season team, no reason why that's gonna change, It's simple the Bulls must play the same type of defense they've played for 3 years and let D Rose be the MVP caliber player he can be on offense. The end of the Finals drought is not far fetched.
#1 Indiana Pacers: Last Year 49-32, central crown, took champs to 7 games.
Projected Finish: 63-19, Final Four
Like the Pacer teams of Miller time, these team has the talent and attitude to dethrone the reigning champs, let's hope that unlike Reggie's teams, these Pacers don't fall short. The Pacers bring back their core along with an improved bench with the addition of Luis Scola, CJ Watson, but most importantly Danny Granger will return, the once go to player comes in and should be an great combo with rising all star Paul George. If the starters continue playing where they left off last May and the bench can produce as expected, there will be a new Least Champion.
Eastern Playoff Outlook:
IND
DET IND
BRO BRO
NY IND IND
CHI
CHI
CLE CHI
MIA MIA
WAS
After going down the 2013-14 schedule day by day and calculating final win Tally, based on talent, past history (curses?), and emotional games I came up with the following. Let's start in the Least that while improved, still will employ playoff bound team with losing records. From worst to first, here they are:
#15 Orlando Magic. Last Year: 20-62 missed playoffs for first time in 7 years.
Projected finish: 18-64, continue rebuilding, lotto bound again, get used to it.
Orlando has some young talent that are exiting to watch along with vets like Afflalo and contender hold up Nelson, but seriously, they're gonna be the kind of team that other teams use to rest some of their players, young core, no bench, long frustrating season again.
#14 Toronto Raptors: Last Year 34-48, 10 in Least, missed playoffs, 5th straight year
Projected finish: 20-62, miss playoffs for 6th straight year
I challenge any non-Raptor NBA fan to name the Raptors starters plus 6th man. Yeah, not very promising. While not horrible, I just don't think this collection of players will mesh together in time to even dent their conference. They'll contend but will have plenty shortcoming.
#13 Philadelphia 76ers: Last Year 34-48, 9th seed, missed playoffs
Projected finish: 21-61, miss playoffs
Gone is All-star Holiday and hopeful savior Bynum. Expectations are low for the Sixers, so I think any victory they can get will be cherished. Many questions await this ball club but I still don't believe they're the worst club in the Least, rookie sensation MCW has good size, speed and ability, together with Turner, Hawes, Young, and Anderson they should contend, specially if their Rook is able to play in control and work on turnover prone reputation. Last we heard other Rook Noel will not be available all season, hey, that means more touches for Kwame!
#12 Milwaukee Bucks: Last Year 38-44, 8th seed, swept by Super Friends
Projected Finish: 25-57, back to lotto
Mayo & Ellis traded places and Gumby will no longer be chucking up shots for the deer. This team can easily go and win in the low 30s, I feel they're gonna be very unpredictable and while they have some established vets, it's just not enough against an improving Least with younger players.
#11 Charlotte Bobcats: Last Year 21-61, missed playoffs
Projected Finish: 29-53, Not quite there yet, back to lotto
Mr. Jordan's club will play it's last season as the Kittens and go back to their more successful Hornet name, let's see if that transcends to a change in team culture. If healthy, the 'Cats should have a better season but still not really impose fear on anyone contending. Big Al gives them a legit go to big man and Kemba and MKG best years are yet to come. An improved bench led by vets Gordon and Sessions will make this the best 'Cat team since they made the playoffs in '10
#10 Leprechauns: Last Year 41-40, 7th seed, end of new big three era in bean town
Projected finish: 31-51, miss playoffs for first time since '07
Even without Rondo, Boston has a solid core that will not make things easy for opponents. One thing I find funny though is while the Lakers playoff hopes are questionable, there is no doubt the Leprechauns are headed back to the lotto according to majority opinion, yet, is not hot topic, even though it is the most decorated franchise in history, or so we keep hearing. Again the two most storied franchises, sure don't get judged the same.
#9 Atlanta Hawks: Last Year 44-38, 6th seed, dismissed by Pacers
Projected Finish: 32-50 could sneak into playoffs and be out again in first round
The Hawks six year post season run may come to an end not because they took a step back but because other teams got better. Still they should be in the playoff battle if only to get swept by one of the real contenders. The Hawks will look good against bottom feeders but fail to hang with the Varsity clubs
#8 Detroit Pistons: Last Year 29-53 missed playoffs for 3rd straight year
Projected Finish: 33-49, back to post season since '09
Only reason they make playoffs is they play in Least. Still it should be fun for the Motor City to get back to playoffs. The front line of Drummond, Monroe, and Smith is going to be a beast, add streaky shooters like Gumby and Mr. Big Shot you got a team, you're gonna have to take seriously. Improved play from role players will define how much noise Deeeeeeeetroit basketball will make.
#7 Cleveland Cavaliers: Last Year 24-58 curse of 'Bron continues
Projected Finish: 34-48, curse of 'Bron ends, well at least lotto trips end
Another team benefiting from playing in Least. None the less Kyrie has shown he is a bonafide star in this league and he will now the best collection of players with him in his young career. Jarret Jack brings a fearless attitude off the bench that will help young players, Clark's play last year earned him a chance to start in Cleveland if he can contribute it will turn out to be a good investment. They have the #1 pick Bennet and Waiters continues to improve. Now if former Laker Bynum can come in and use his size even in limited minutes it will open up opportunities. The possibility of a Heat/Cav first round series is now very possible, that would be epic.
#6 Washington Wizards: Last Year 29-53, missed playoffs
Projected Finish: 43-39, only other Least team with winning record besides top 5
With the newly acquired Polish Hammer in DC, the Wizards now become legit spoilers in Least and the Nation's capital a place with competitive basketball again. Wall & Beal are among the best back court duos and are not even halfway to their ceiling. The arrival of Gortat moves Nene to the 4 spot and gives the Wiz their own set of skilled twin towers. Add a selection of role wing men and you got an possibly exciting team in DC.
#5 New York Knicks: Last Year 54-28, 2nd seed, Atlantic Crown, lost in semis
Projected Finish: 57-25, tough 4/5 match up, toss up
The Knicks feel this is their year, on paper their state rivals Brooklyn looks better, and they can match the athleticism and speed of the top 3. Still NY will contend if healthy, they still have many experienced role players that unfortunately have their best years behind them but can just do enough to make a difference. It also feels that if they don't go deep in playoffs, the once perfect of marriage of Melo and NY will end in forgettable fashion. Good ball is back at the mecca, but also in Chicago & Indiana.
#4 Brooklyn Nets: Last Year 49-33, back to playoffs, first round exit
Projected Finish: 59-23, Atlantic Crown, 4/5 match up, toss up
On paper this team looks legit, but so did last years' Lakers, unlike Lake show though, the big time players DO want to be here. Unfortunately desire can't make you younger and this is an older team. But if healthy and if they find chemistry fast ala Boston '08, this will a team to be reckoned with. The starters are solid and their bench is solid, if as good as advertised the Nets will win the NY battle but fall short against a younger hungry Indy team.
#3 Miami Heat: Last Year 66-16, best in league, repeat champions
Projected Finish: 59-23, Southeast crown again, see below.
The 2 time defending champions are chasing dynasty status but now face not one by 4 legit threats and 4 more young squads that will make them work for their place in history. With an aging Wade, Allen, and questionable Beasley & Oden additions, other teams now have a chance to sneak up on the Heat and make them work for every W. As if being champions is not enough to put a target on your back, the Heat are hated, and I don't think any team would mind playing a part in their demise. That reason is why I have them not winning 60 games this year, they have played long post season for 3 years, other teams have improved and their target on the back just got bigger. Sure they still employ the best player in the game, but he can't do it all, Indy showed last year what a talented athletic wing can do to the reigning MVP, and they still have not fixed their nagging issues of PG and big man defense. The Heat are still favorites, c'mon it's the Heat, but the gap is closing fast.
#2 Chicago Bulls: Last year 45-37, 5th seed, lost in semis vs. Heat, broke their 27 game win streak
Projected Finish: 62-20, Final Four
Even without D Rose the Bulls remained competitive and were still a beast defensively. They were able to break the Heat's streak without their big guns and for 4 games give Miami all they had. Now their leader, the only other person to win MVP in the Lebron Heat ear is back, and ever better than before. Under Thibs the Bulls have been a very good regular season team, no reason why that's gonna change, It's simple the Bulls must play the same type of defense they've played for 3 years and let D Rose be the MVP caliber player he can be on offense. The end of the Finals drought is not far fetched.
#1 Indiana Pacers: Last Year 49-32, central crown, took champs to 7 games.
Projected Finish: 63-19, Final Four
Like the Pacer teams of Miller time, these team has the talent and attitude to dethrone the reigning champs, let's hope that unlike Reggie's teams, these Pacers don't fall short. The Pacers bring back their core along with an improved bench with the addition of Luis Scola, CJ Watson, but most importantly Danny Granger will return, the once go to player comes in and should be an great combo with rising all star Paul George. If the starters continue playing where they left off last May and the bench can produce as expected, there will be a new Least Champion.
Eastern Playoff Outlook:
IND
DET IND
BRO BRO
NY IND IND
CHI
CHI
CLE CHI
MIA MIA
WAS
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Well, That Sucked
26 years I've cheered the Lakers on, from Showtime, rebuilding, Lake Show, Shaq era, the triangle, Fab 4, Post Shaq, Kobe era, 2nd triangle, Post Phil, and now. 11 times I've seen them go to the big dance claiming 7 titles, the most by any team in that span. 12 Final Fours, 6 each of First Round/Semis, and 2 lotto years. When you cheer the Lakers, you expect winning season every year, in my time as a fan, I have been disappointed technically 19 times. In the Lakers world, anything less than a title is a lost season. So where does this rank as worse seasons ever? Already rumbling of this quartet being the biggest flop not only in basketball but all sports are being heard. Personally I was more disappointed with the Fab 4 lineup that ended with the Shaq era ending in LA. Sure they made the finals, but they were manhandled by the Pistons, and sure the Mailman wasn't available, but a prime Shaq and explosive young Kobe were. The current team was missing 3 of their 5 starters, and 2 of their top 9 rotation players, with the other 2 playing with injuries or playing their first minutes since surgery. Even Tony Parker said it was strange, can't see how anyone can compare this crippled hobbling team to the biggest flops who HAD their pieces in place or at least not missing 4 players including their best MVP caliber Hall of Fame bound Superstar, oh yes I do, ... it's the Lakers, they're expected to win if they have to resort to using the ball boys. 
Anywho, while it was a nightmare and very frustrating to see the Lakers this year, for me, the '04 version was worse, injuries hurt that group too, but they still had a very dominant Shaq & Kobe duo and Phil, and still they dropped many games they should have won, and didn't have the excuse of injuries like the Lakers did this year. This group never got going, and never had a chance, the projected starting lineup played a total of 7 games, losing all of them. Gasol & Nash missed about 1/3 of the season, Blake barely played over half the season, and rotation hopeful Hill played a few games over 1/3 of the 82. Injuries really kicked their ass this year and when healthy they just could not get in synch. Lack of training camp? Lack of chemistry? Too much Pressure? Who knows, but now the season has come to an end. for the third time in the Kobe era, the Lakers are dismissed in the first round, swept 2 of the last 3 years, 1 win in their last 13 playoff games. So what now? Can this group still win? I sure believe so, I'm sure there is going to be changes, but if it was me, I'd give the guys locked in another run, what the hell, it can't get any worse than this year, a single win in the playoffs next year, would already be an improvement, and these guys need a chance to redeem themselves and I hope they get it. First things first, D12. Signing Howard is priority. The Kobe era is winding down, if not coming to an end, there has to be someone to carry the mantle when he finally laces it up for the last time, Howard has the potential to be the player, but many question if he has the heart, still one of the best big men if not the best has a chance to continue playing for you, you need to make a very strong effort to make sure he resigns. On the plus side, this early exit will allow the Lakers to get healthy, and if Howard decided Hollywood is just too bright, well, then the Lakers will get a small break on their luxury tax, not great, but hey anything helps until Kobe and Pau's salary come off the books. After D12, comes the question as to who do you put around him. The Lakers still have their amnesty option which they can use on either Pau or Ron Ron, unless you're getting an All Star caliber player for Pau in trade or by signing him, just keep him one more year, he still one of the most skilled big men in the league. Ron can still play D and harass players and has become on of my fave Lakers, I would really hate to see him go, but if amnesty comes to play, I expect it will be used on him unless he's the best they can do, which is also probable. The remaining significant free agents are Jamison, Meeks, and Clark. Jamison is likely gone, Clark was good but can't expect to score a huge contract especially with D12 getting maximum if he resigns, Meeks has a team option and guess he may be back unless they can score an athletic wing who can guard other wings. Key available agents that Lakers may actually have a chance in getting might be Jarret Jack, Tony Allen, Kyle Korver, Nate Robinson, Marco Belinelli, J.J. Reddick and Mo Williams. With the exception of Allen all these players can hit from outside and can help stretch the floor. Allen would give them that lock down defender to relieve Kobe of guarding the west guards. Now if D12 doesn't resign, there's quite a few free agents that'll cost to wear the purple and gold but would add star talent to the roster, Josh Smith, David West, Monta Ellis, Kevin Martin, Paul Milsap, and Al Jefferson, and yes I know CP3 is one too, but I doubt he'd ever wear the Lakers uniform, Stern made that pretty clear. I would love Iguoadala, Allen, Robinson, and Jack to be priority, I think they could really help the Lakers with their problems, speed, bench, and harassing D, especially AI and Allen, Robinson would bring energy and fun off the bench and Jack a reliable scorer also off the bench.
Well, there my thoughts, great move by the fans to cheer Pau on his effort on their last game. Thank you Lakers for keeping the playoff tradition alive. Hope all recover and get healthy for next season. To those who move on, good luck on your next destination, once a Laker always a Laker. While disappointing, gotta admit, the Lakers are never boring. Good luck in the summer, and see you in October.
Go Lakers.
Overtime: Parting thoughts, the storied most successful franchise in basketball, the Leprechauns were 1 game over .500 are about to be taken out in the 1st round and for the most part had their important players available with the exception of pg Rondo. The Lakers actually had a better record despite their shortcomings. But yet, the Lakers are the biggest disappointing, even though they dealt with multiple injuries to all starters and 6th man and playing in the west where they need to contend with Finals contenders, OKC, Spurs, and good teams such as Clips, Grizzlies, Nuggets, Warriors, Rockets, Jazz, Mavericks, Blazers while the East is still the Least with only Miami being the legit favorite. The two most storied franchises sure don't get judged the same. Just sayin'
Friday, April 12, 2013
Lakers "win", but suffer painful blow that symbolizes this dissapointing season
Thankfully they pulled it out. The Spaniard continued his recent All-Star effort and finished with a triple double, the hopeful franchise future Superman, led them with 28 pts, only 7 boards but did hit 14/22 freebies. But after such an emotional battle, the concern was still the extent of their leader's injury. So now with 2 games left and Mamba done for the year, what then? Can they win without him? Sure they can, and I think they will. But what's the reward? Extending the playoff appearances of this storied franchise? Saving face on this disappointing season? The Lakers regardless of their record or their play, were still a team one did not bet against. Not when they employ a player who can go into myth like scoring runs and can single handedly win games, except he won't be there. The usual #24 will not be there to take the last shot, score a bucket when most needed, or hit multiple difficult shot to tear the momentum from the opponent. No, instead Mamba will be in street clothes yelling instructions and aching to get back on the floor, but will it be enough? Not likely. Let's be honest, even hard core fans understand that who ever the Lakers play will probably dismiss them quickly and now begins the question of the future, where do we go from here? First thing's first, keeping D12. Now when will Mamba come back, cause let's be serious, if anyone really thinks this is the way Kobe is writing his farewell, you're just a hopeful hater. Perhaps Kobe will no longer score 20+ points per game again, but he will score, and he will have big games, and he will wear #24 for the Lakers once again. Whether the Lakers win a title with Kobe again or not, rest assure that Mamba will leave the game at his own merit. The question is who will his team mates be, and how well or bad will they be holding ship until the captain returns? We Shall see.
As a Laker fan for 26 years, this is second only to Magic announcing he was retiring due to contracting HIV in low points. It is an extremely bad taste but typical finishing in this crappy season. But I have faith in the Lakers and whether they fade into pretenders, they won't be there for long. The Lake Show will always bounce back and I will be here cheering them all the way. My prayers go out to not only one of my favorite Lakers but one of my favorite players in general. I wish you a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing the game when they announce your return to the line up. Outstanding season Mamba, you are truly one of the greats. Go Lakers.
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