Phil Jackson wanted to makeanother abrupt sideline interview allabout the struggles of his Lakers, instead of the gritty, relentless play from the visitors.He cracked a joke about finding a rabbit's foot for the Easter Bunnyand then went after Bennett Salvatore and a play that caused the lead official to "T" up Ron Artest and Kobe Bryant."The referees turned against us," he told ABC's Lisa Salters.The winningest coach in NBA history seemed to know his team was doomed. His face sported a look of depressing resignation.Even with Pau Gasol playing as well as he ever has, the Spurs cruised in the final minutesto a 100-81 victory.Something else turned against the Lakersin this Sunday afternoon match. They did not get any help from the Tim Duncan of New York Giants jersey
two weeks ago.Then,in a 92-83 loss, Duncan missed chip shots, andjump hooksthree-to-five feet from the rim.He looked older than the Alamo in the process.If he had dominated since the time when dinosaurs roamed the earth, wasn't it time for his extinction?The Spurs responded to that demoralizing home defeat with wins over the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and Orlando Magic.Manu Ginobili led the charge again with his Argentina-sized cojones, scoring 17 of his 32 points in the fourth quarter. As the Spurs' guard again drove up his price, Duncan lowered the cost of the wear and tear on his knees with another dominant day at the office.Sunday, the supposed underdog was the one delivering the beatdown.When the Lakers pulled to within two in the fourth quarter after trailing by as many as 15, Gregg Popovich saw something that should convince him to cancel his latest appointment with the gastrointerologist.Then, Ginobili and Richard Jefferson decided it was time for a steady diet of Timmy. Duncan delivered and outplayed Gasol and LamarOdomdown the stretch.He contorted his bodywith Gasol molesting himfor a three-point play.Gasol swiped the ball from Duncan on a post-up attempt and ran the length of the floor for a slam. When the Spaniard tried the same play again, he missed and Duncan made him pay with an uncontested slam of his own.The significance of San Antonio's victory cannot be overstated. If the Lakers miss Andrew Bynum, the Spurslong forthe return ofstarting, All-NBA point guard Tony Parker.Only one of those players owns a Finals MVP trophy.Sophomore combo guard George Hill left the contest with a sprained ankle and did not return.The undermanned Spurs won by 19 with D-League call up Malik Hairston getting crunch-time burn. Popovich had not chaperoned a triumphat Staples Center since 2007's Rodeo Road Tripunless you count numerous embarrassments of theClippers.I don't.The building looks and sounds a lot different when L.A.'s real NBA team hosts an opponent.The aftershocks of an earthquake centered in Mexico could have been confused for the rumble of Clipper fans racing to lower their standards for that evening's game with the New York Knicks.The Spurs defeated Hollywood's storied franchise, not the one riddled by injuries and a disgraceful, racist, and cheapskateowner.They did it with the Duncan of old, instead of just an old Duncan.His new normthe product of 12-plus NBAseasons and knees as uncooperative as Ben Roethlisberger with theauthoritieswill have to do.Popovich cannot expect the Duncan who averages 20 and 11 in every month of the season to surface again.If he can post those numbers through February and recoverNew York Jets jersey
from a few statistical dips here and there, the Spurs immediate future looks less bleak.His legs ache every day, but his on-court leadership and drive to win burned longer when the Lakers threatened to pounce.Sunday marked the third straight game in which Duncanput the game out of reach with his usualback-to-the-basket command.He outplayed Dwight Howard in a tight game. He whipped the Rockets crippled front line.When the Spurs needed to extend a late four-point lead against the league-leading Cavs, Hill threw it to Duncan,and heresponded withhis agelessjump hook.Doubting Duncan, again, seems like a dangerous idea.Maybe the Spurs cannot be champions, especially since they figure to start the playoffs on the road.Can anyone like the chances of Utah, Dallas, Phoenix, or Denver more?The Jazz swept the season series, but all four games were close in the fourth quarter. In a potential playoff meeting, what happened in 2007 would matter.If the Suns continued to surge thanks to a mostly cupcake finishing schedule and happened to meet the Spurs in the first round, wouldn't Parker, Duncan, and Ginobili lick their chops?No need to start a conga line. A layup line would do.Ifthe Spursbeat much betterSuns squads in 2005 and 2007 without home court advantage, how could they lose now?The Jazzcould not stop the Lakers from scoring easy bucket after easy bucket. They weren't as competitive with L.A.a month ago at Energy Solutions Arena as the Spurs were at the ATT Center.The George Karl and Kenyon Martin-lessNuggets have looked like unarmed soldiers heading into an ambush.Playing with proper between-game rest, Denver fell behind at homeby 20 to the lowly Clippers. That they won 98-90 says more about the ineptitude of the Clippers than their own fortitude.The Mavericks may boast the edge in the I-35 series, but Caron Butler and Brendan Haywood have not turned Dallas into a defensive juggernaut. The Mavs surrendered 121 points to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a Saturday home loss.Butler and Haywood have also never tasted the conference finals. As Jefferson and Antonio McDyess recount their own NBA Finals experiences, on what will the Mavs' trumpeted acquisitions lean?They did learn the hard way what can happen when a player brings firearms into the locker room.How will that nugget of knowledgehelpDallas ina physical, seven-game series?Portland needs Greg Oden and Joel Pryzbilla to have a chance to reach its potential. Brandon Roy's greatness can only take the Blazers so far.Oklahoma City will either die by its youth or use the don't-know-any-better factor to strangle a veteran squad.While the Lakers' "other" challengers stumble in trying to figure themselves out in time for the postseason, the Spurs have been beating elite teams their waywith defense and ball movement.Sunday also offered other encouraging signs. Jefferson was a key part of the Spurs' third-quarter run that afforded them some breathing room.He caught a full-court pass from Duncan for a fastbreak slam. He cut to the rim as Duncan was doubled and threw down an alley-oop while being fouled.The Jefferson of Sunday looked more like the one Popovich Oakland Raiders jersey
wanted last June.McDyess played a rugged fourth quarter, securing tough rebounds and nailing a 15-footer to make it 78-71.Matt Bonner contributed eight points and some adequate defense.Hill's injury leaves the Spurs without a non D-League point guard on their roster, and that could hurt them in their quest to avoid the eighth seed.Even after Sunday's rout, Popovich knows better than to welcome a first-round date with Kobe Bryant."The ones that say, 'We don't care who we play,' they're full of baloney," Popovichsaid just before the game. "We're all trying to hide from the Lakers in the first round and that's the truth."He's right to call anyone who claims to not fear the Lakers "idiots." Raise your hand if you think Bryant will let a team with such talent bow in the first round.Still, with Ginobili en fuego, playing as well as he ever has, a productive Duncan, the return of Parker, and a revamped supporting cast, won't the Spurs always represent the Lakers greatest Western Conferencechallengers?Even if they can't win without a size upgrade next to Duncan, can't they throw the hardest punches?They boast the championship moxie lacking in most of the conference's other All-Stars not named Chauncey Billups.When the going got tough in the third quarter, it was not hard to see why GM R.C. Buford had coveted Jefferson and McDyess in a busy offseason.They found ways to help Ginobili and Duncan win a game they could not afford to lose.A defeat would have given the Lakers a 3-1 series win and even more confidence heading into a first-round matchup.Now, the Spurs and a scorching Ginobili have hope of avoiding the defending champs when the postseason begins.No one mattered more on Sunday than Duncan. After Serge Ibaka and Philadelphia Eagles jersey
Al Horford had delivered highlight reelblocks anddunks at the forward's expense, Popovich needed his foundation to give him areason for hope.The old Duncanwith moves and legs that seem todate back to the cretaceous perioddelivered.A season most would label as disappointing became immediately better than the previous two in the span of three hours.Withnew lifeborne from a season-defining afternoon of dirty work at Staples Centercame an old hope.
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 Spurs-Mavericks: An Early Playoff Treat
Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesLast night, the Dallas Mavericks hosted the San Antonio Spurs for a good ol' fashioned, end-of-the-season rivalry game. There's no better way to end the season than playing your rival.Unless you're the Spurs, who were handed a seven point loss.Neither team was playing for much of anything, as both teams had already locked up a playoff spot, with Dallas securing the No. 2 seed and San Antonio the No. 7 seed.The interesting thing is that while Tony Parker played, he did so without his wing men Tim Duncan and Manu Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
Ginobili, who sat last night's game out to rest up for the upcoming playoff appointment with the Mavericks.What makes the loss so interesting, is that while the Spurs lost, they only lost by seven, even with Duncan and Ginobili taking the night off.The Mavericks should be terrified that their foes did so well without their complete trifecta of stars in the game.Furthermore, they should be concerned with the outstanding play of DeJuan Blair, who racked up 27 points, 23 rebounds, four assists, and three steals.Up until last night, Blair was just another spot on the roster, only averaging 7.8 points per game. Last night, he more than tripled his season average.However, the Spurs' shooting numbers should send shivers down the entire roster.The Spurs shot an abysmal 2-22 on 3-pointers, which works out to only 9.1 percent.The Spurs' Field Goals were depressing, too.San Antonio made 37-91 FGs, a pitiful 40.7 percent.Wanna know where the missing seven points were last night?Free throws.The Spurs sunk 13 of 20 free throws, a decent 65 percent. But had they made those seven free throws, they might have won.If San Antonio wants to send the Mavericks packing in Round One, Gregg Popovich needs to lock his players in the ATT Center and work on their shooting numbers until Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
Sunday.While last night's game was merely a formality for both teams, the Spurs should be both excited and worried.They should be excited because even without Duncan and Ginobili, players like DeJuan Blair stepped up and pulled their weight in their absence.They should be worried because of their shooting numbers, which need a lot of work before Sunday's opening Round One game.Hopefully Popovich won't bench Blair just because Duncan and Ginobili will be playing, but instead, uses him often to give one of those guys a breather.Blair has proved his worth to the team, and maybe he can become the fourth man in San Antonio's group of elite three.While last night's game meant virtually nothing, it showed us two things:1. DeJuan Blair is San Antonio's best-kept secret, and is a valuable offensive weapon.2. San Antonio, for the most part, was able to keep pace with the Mavericks, even without their two stars.A San Antonio-Dallas matchup is exciting all by itself, but to get such a matchup in the first round of the playoffs is even better. Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Now that it's the playoffs, San Antonio will be an unstoppable force that will unleash their fury on the Mavericks.Leading the charge?The elite three, with their newest member, DeJuan Blair.My pick?San Antonio in five games.To read more of Jordan's work, click here.
Ginobili, who sat last night's game out to rest up for the upcoming playoff appointment with the Mavericks.What makes the loss so interesting, is that while the Spurs lost, they only lost by seven, even with Duncan and Ginobili taking the night off.The Mavericks should be terrified that their foes did so well without their complete trifecta of stars in the game.Furthermore, they should be concerned with the outstanding play of DeJuan Blair, who racked up 27 points, 23 rebounds, four assists, and three steals.Up until last night, Blair was just another spot on the roster, only averaging 7.8 points per game. Last night, he more than tripled his season average.However, the Spurs' shooting numbers should send shivers down the entire roster.The Spurs shot an abysmal 2-22 on 3-pointers, which works out to only 9.1 percent.The Spurs' Field Goals were depressing, too.San Antonio made 37-91 FGs, a pitiful 40.7 percent.Wanna know where the missing seven points were last night?Free throws.The Spurs sunk 13 of 20 free throws, a decent 65 percent. But had they made those seven free throws, they might have won.If San Antonio wants to send the Mavericks packing in Round One, Gregg Popovich needs to lock his players in the ATT Center and work on their shooting numbers until Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
Sunday.While last night's game was merely a formality for both teams, the Spurs should be both excited and worried.They should be excited because even without Duncan and Ginobili, players like DeJuan Blair stepped up and pulled their weight in their absence.They should be worried because of their shooting numbers, which need a lot of work before Sunday's opening Round One game.Hopefully Popovich won't bench Blair just because Duncan and Ginobili will be playing, but instead, uses him often to give one of those guys a breather.Blair has proved his worth to the team, and maybe he can become the fourth man in San Antonio's group of elite three.While last night's game meant virtually nothing, it showed us two things:1. DeJuan Blair is San Antonio's best-kept secret, and is a valuable offensive weapon.2. San Antonio, for the most part, was able to keep pace with the Mavericks, even without their two stars.A San Antonio-Dallas matchup is exciting all by itself, but to get such a matchup in the first round of the playoffs is even better. Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Now that it's the playoffs, San Antonio will be an unstoppable force that will unleash their fury on the Mavericks.Leading the charge?The elite three, with their newest member, DeJuan Blair.My pick?San Antonio in five games.To read more of Jordan's work, click here.
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 Kobe Bryant vs. LeBron James: Has the Torch Been Surrendered?
It is always tough to watch a young-gun snatch the stranglehold that one has on an industry and its participants, as their dominance is something both revered and admired by its followers.Observing a superstar rise into the spotlight with an array of talent and mounds of perseverance, is something that we secretly clamor for.That's why stars are stars. We pay to see them dominate the competition, and idolize their greatness.Every star has their day, but what happens when that day comes to a slow demise based on diminished physical ability and the arrival of Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
a successor?Julius Erving's attack of Larry Bird after the young-gun dominated him is what happens. Shaquille O'Neal's public verbal attack on Dwight Howard and the Superman moniker is what happens.Ego's get in the way, and the great ones don't concede easily.Kobe Bryant has long been viewed as the NBA's best overall player after the torch was passed from the greatest ever, Michael Jordan.Bryant came into the league a brash, talented, and wiry 18-year-old kid who had the moon as the limit of his talent.Capturing three NBA titles in a row, Bryant and O'Neal played leading roles in a dynasty that brought them together, but would eventually tear them apart.There was nothing on a basketball court that Bryant couldn't do, and there was no one man in the league that could guard him.Bryant was undoubtedly the single most visible player in the NBA for most of the 2000's, and the most supremely talented.That was until the arrival of a young kid from Akron, Ohio, by the name of LeBron James.From the moment ESPN televised James' high-school games for St. Vincent-St. Mary's live, the sports world wascaptivated by the athleticability James displayed, and couldn't wait for the future.Unlike Bryant, James made an immediate impact with a 25-point, nine assist, six rebound game against the Sacramento Kings in his first NBA performance.James won Rookie of the Year honors averaging 20.9 PPG, 5.9 APG, and 5.5 RPG, while Bryant averaged just 7.6 PPG in limited action.Although James had a faster ascension into NBA hierarchy, Bryant eventually worked himself into the sameconversationwith the all-time greats of the league.Once James settled into the NBA, it was clear that the torch would eventually be passed from Bryant to him as the best player in the world.Rumblings started about this a few years ago, and they have never been more rampant as James has stole the show with his freakish physical attributes combined with his impeccable talent.The question is, "Has Bryant officially lost the "best in the world" title?"After winning his second consecutive NBA Most Valuable Player award, there has never been more steam behind the argument for James.Let's put their attributes into perspective for the sake of comparison. Both players will be compared based on five important basketball characteristics.Shooting, passing, defense,clutch performance, andleadership will be the determining factors as to who's the better player, and ultimately determining if Bryant's status as the best is no more.ShootingWhen James first entered the league, the man couldn't shoot a lick.Not to quote Mr. Outrageous Skip Bayless, but he was right when he used to call LeBron, "LeBrick."Everyone knew James could penetrate the lane with the best of them no matter who was guarding him, but his stats suffered due to him not being a feared shooter.Similarly, Bryant wasn't a great shooter either when he arrived in L.A, and had the same tendency to always drive and miss numerous jump shots.James has began to shoot the ball far better than earlier in his career, and the stats prove that he has become a more potent scorer since.Also, his ability to shoot makes defenders have to play Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
him tighter, which allows him to use his best attribute to its fullest, his power and speed to the basket.Bryant also developed into a formidable shooter, and added a fade-away from the basket jump shot similar to the one Jordan employed, and made a staple late in his career.James went from shooting 42 percent in his rookie year to 50 percent this season and Bryant went from shooting 42 percent as a rookie to 46 percent this season.James is far stronger than Bryant and gets more dunks and lay-ups than Kobe, naturally.Both players shot 33 percent from the three-point line this season, and at this point none hold much of an edge over the other.Some would argue that Kobe is more consistent and is a better free-throw shooter, but not enough to hold a significant edge here.Advantage: EvenPassingThis debate is easier settled than a man having to choose between a Lamborghini Gallardo and a Saturn Ion.Okay maybe not that easy, but James came into the league at six-foot-nine as a great passer, and averaged nearly six assists per game as a rookie, seven per game for his career and hasn't had a season below 5.5.Pretty good for a natural power forward.Bryant has had the stigma of "ball-hog" follow him since his days at Lower Merion High School, but those accusations aren't completely accurate.As a rookie, Bryant didn't play much and averaged only 1.3 assists per game, but improved that to five by 2000.Bryant averaged a career high in 2004-05 in assists with six per game, but fell under five two times after that and has a career average under five.Fora penetrating guard with the talent Kobe has, that's a little low. Jordan had a career average of 5.3, but a high of eight and second high of 6.3 in consecutive seasons.Bottom line, James is the better passer and has done it with less, until the arrivals of Mo Williams and Antawn Jamison.Advantage: JamesDefenseThis is just as easily settled as the last comparison, but in the other man's favor.James came into the NBA not a great defender, but descent enough to not earn the Steve Nash label of, "he may torch you on offense, but be prepared to give up 30 on D."Wanting to be the best player on the court every night, James quietly worked himself into a very respectable on-ball defender who could guard the other team's best player consistent enough to make some big stops.Unfortunately, he has yet to develop the patience and intensity on defense needed to shut-down the opponents best player for long stretches of Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
time.Bryant on the other hand prided himself on the defensive end of the floor nearly as much as the offensive side, and developed into a great on-ball defender.Not only could Bryant guard your best player, but he could make the game very difficult to him as he did to Oklahoma City's Russell Westbrook in the 2010 playoffs.Making the All-Defensive first team eight times, Bryant has beenexceptional defensively for much of his career.James has developed a tendency to perform what I call, "demoralizing trailing blocks" that he performs when a player believes he has a fast break layup in which James swoops in like a seagull and sends the shot away.As amazing as those blocks are to witness and Bryant's aging legs, Kobe is the winner here, still.Advantage: BryantClutch PerformanceThis is a very tough category because both players have shown an ability to get it done in clutch situations.Oh, who am I kidding?At this point, I won't waste time with this debate. James is the better clutch player.Many of you reading this will scoff at that assertion, but before viciously attacking me like a K-9 dog to an evasive criminal look at it this way.Mentioned in the previous "defense" category was James' propensity to chase down players and block their shots, often in dramatic fashion.Despite that, he's not a better overall defender than Bryant. Kobe hits a considerable amount of game-winning shots, especially this past season.Clutch extends further than that. While there is no easily identifiable stat to define clutch, being able to lift your team to victory in close games under five minutes to play is close enough.If you believe in John Hollinger's PER (Player Efficiency Rating) system, then Steve Nash, Manu Ginobili, Amare Stoudemire, and LeBron James are your top players.Either way, Bryant is a great clutch player, but his final shots are like the highlight film blocks by LeBron: They don't tell the whole story.James is better at involving teammates and also being consistent in the clutch of fourth quarters, but hasn't passed Bryant individually yet.In other words, with one shot under five seconds to go I want Bryant taking it. If I need to win a close game with underfive minutes to go give me James.Okay, I wasted some time with that debate. Oops.Advantage: JamesLeadershipOne thing has been consistent about Bryant since his inception into the league: He's a demanding teammate who will not hesitate to check you to your face.Often described as fiercely competitive and intense, Bryant will's his team to victory getting the most out of them. All great players do that.Sometimes, though his aggression and verbal nature cause him to draw ire from his teammates, and early in his career he did just that.For that reason amongst others, that's what broke he and Shaq apart prematurely. Those attributes combined with a sense of narcissism can take away from team unity.Nonetheless, Bryant has transformed himself into a far more engaging teammate who can have fun with his team, but distinguish that from the task at hand, winning.James on the other hand has always had the complete respect of his teammates, and often is the most engaging, fun-oriented player on the floor.Since being a Cavalier, James has had many visibly jovial moments with his team such as dancing and different versions of high-fives and silly on-court antics.Some outlets have argued that James' demeanor isn't serious enough, and that's why he hasn't won a title yet, Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
similar to the assertions that Dwight Howard faces.James proved the type of teammate he is when he received the MVP award this season.He brought the entire team out to accept it with him, and that kind of appreciation is what makes him the ultimate teammate.James willfully distributes the basketball and openly applauds his teammates when they do well. Bryant is very hard on his teammates and extremely demanding similar to Jordan.The work-ethic example that Bryant sets and expects from his teammates makes them better, and despite his aggressive nature he has evolved into a fearless leader.So has James, except he does it in a more comfortable way.Advantage: JamesThe fact is, Bryant is still a superstar and a force to be reckoned with. Nobody can take thataway from him.Hiscurtain is just closed on being the best player in the world.Bryant's place is etched in history, but individually it's time for him to make like thefamily dog and move over foryour daughter'snew puppy.Consider the torch passed, and blazing with fire.
a successor?Julius Erving's attack of Larry Bird after the young-gun dominated him is what happens. Shaquille O'Neal's public verbal attack on Dwight Howard and the Superman moniker is what happens.Ego's get in the way, and the great ones don't concede easily.Kobe Bryant has long been viewed as the NBA's best overall player after the torch was passed from the greatest ever, Michael Jordan.Bryant came into the league a brash, talented, and wiry 18-year-old kid who had the moon as the limit of his talent.Capturing three NBA titles in a row, Bryant and O'Neal played leading roles in a dynasty that brought them together, but would eventually tear them apart.There was nothing on a basketball court that Bryant couldn't do, and there was no one man in the league that could guard him.Bryant was undoubtedly the single most visible player in the NBA for most of the 2000's, and the most supremely talented.That was until the arrival of a young kid from Akron, Ohio, by the name of LeBron James.From the moment ESPN televised James' high-school games for St. Vincent-St. Mary's live, the sports world wascaptivated by the athleticability James displayed, and couldn't wait for the future.Unlike Bryant, James made an immediate impact with a 25-point, nine assist, six rebound game against the Sacramento Kings in his first NBA performance.James won Rookie of the Year honors averaging 20.9 PPG, 5.9 APG, and 5.5 RPG, while Bryant averaged just 7.6 PPG in limited action.Although James had a faster ascension into NBA hierarchy, Bryant eventually worked himself into the sameconversationwith the all-time greats of the league.Once James settled into the NBA, it was clear that the torch would eventually be passed from Bryant to him as the best player in the world.Rumblings started about this a few years ago, and they have never been more rampant as James has stole the show with his freakish physical attributes combined with his impeccable talent.The question is, "Has Bryant officially lost the "best in the world" title?"After winning his second consecutive NBA Most Valuable Player award, there has never been more steam behind the argument for James.Let's put their attributes into perspective for the sake of comparison. Both players will be compared based on five important basketball characteristics.Shooting, passing, defense,clutch performance, andleadership will be the determining factors as to who's the better player, and ultimately determining if Bryant's status as the best is no more.ShootingWhen James first entered the league, the man couldn't shoot a lick.Not to quote Mr. Outrageous Skip Bayless, but he was right when he used to call LeBron, "LeBrick."Everyone knew James could penetrate the lane with the best of them no matter who was guarding him, but his stats suffered due to him not being a feared shooter.Similarly, Bryant wasn't a great shooter either when he arrived in L.A, and had the same tendency to always drive and miss numerous jump shots.James has began to shoot the ball far better than earlier in his career, and the stats prove that he has become a more potent scorer since.Also, his ability to shoot makes defenders have to play Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
him tighter, which allows him to use his best attribute to its fullest, his power and speed to the basket.Bryant also developed into a formidable shooter, and added a fade-away from the basket jump shot similar to the one Jordan employed, and made a staple late in his career.James went from shooting 42 percent in his rookie year to 50 percent this season and Bryant went from shooting 42 percent as a rookie to 46 percent this season.James is far stronger than Bryant and gets more dunks and lay-ups than Kobe, naturally.Both players shot 33 percent from the three-point line this season, and at this point none hold much of an edge over the other.Some would argue that Kobe is more consistent and is a better free-throw shooter, but not enough to hold a significant edge here.Advantage: EvenPassingThis debate is easier settled than a man having to choose between a Lamborghini Gallardo and a Saturn Ion.Okay maybe not that easy, but James came into the league at six-foot-nine as a great passer, and averaged nearly six assists per game as a rookie, seven per game for his career and hasn't had a season below 5.5.Pretty good for a natural power forward.Bryant has had the stigma of "ball-hog" follow him since his days at Lower Merion High School, but those accusations aren't completely accurate.As a rookie, Bryant didn't play much and averaged only 1.3 assists per game, but improved that to five by 2000.Bryant averaged a career high in 2004-05 in assists with six per game, but fell under five two times after that and has a career average under five.Fora penetrating guard with the talent Kobe has, that's a little low. Jordan had a career average of 5.3, but a high of eight and second high of 6.3 in consecutive seasons.Bottom line, James is the better passer and has done it with less, until the arrivals of Mo Williams and Antawn Jamison.Advantage: JamesDefenseThis is just as easily settled as the last comparison, but in the other man's favor.James came into the NBA not a great defender, but descent enough to not earn the Steve Nash label of, "he may torch you on offense, but be prepared to give up 30 on D."Wanting to be the best player on the court every night, James quietly worked himself into a very respectable on-ball defender who could guard the other team's best player consistent enough to make some big stops.Unfortunately, he has yet to develop the patience and intensity on defense needed to shut-down the opponents best player for long stretches of Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
time.Bryant on the other hand prided himself on the defensive end of the floor nearly as much as the offensive side, and developed into a great on-ball defender.Not only could Bryant guard your best player, but he could make the game very difficult to him as he did to Oklahoma City's Russell Westbrook in the 2010 playoffs.Making the All-Defensive first team eight times, Bryant has beenexceptional defensively for much of his career.James has developed a tendency to perform what I call, "demoralizing trailing blocks" that he performs when a player believes he has a fast break layup in which James swoops in like a seagull and sends the shot away.As amazing as those blocks are to witness and Bryant's aging legs, Kobe is the winner here, still.Advantage: BryantClutch PerformanceThis is a very tough category because both players have shown an ability to get it done in clutch situations.Oh, who am I kidding?At this point, I won't waste time with this debate. James is the better clutch player.Many of you reading this will scoff at that assertion, but before viciously attacking me like a K-9 dog to an evasive criminal look at it this way.Mentioned in the previous "defense" category was James' propensity to chase down players and block their shots, often in dramatic fashion.Despite that, he's not a better overall defender than Bryant. Kobe hits a considerable amount of game-winning shots, especially this past season.Clutch extends further than that. While there is no easily identifiable stat to define clutch, being able to lift your team to victory in close games under five minutes to play is close enough.If you believe in John Hollinger's PER (Player Efficiency Rating) system, then Steve Nash, Manu Ginobili, Amare Stoudemire, and LeBron James are your top players.Either way, Bryant is a great clutch player, but his final shots are like the highlight film blocks by LeBron: They don't tell the whole story.James is better at involving teammates and also being consistent in the clutch of fourth quarters, but hasn't passed Bryant individually yet.In other words, with one shot under five seconds to go I want Bryant taking it. If I need to win a close game with underfive minutes to go give me James.Okay, I wasted some time with that debate. Oops.Advantage: JamesLeadershipOne thing has been consistent about Bryant since his inception into the league: He's a demanding teammate who will not hesitate to check you to your face.Often described as fiercely competitive and intense, Bryant will's his team to victory getting the most out of them. All great players do that.Sometimes, though his aggression and verbal nature cause him to draw ire from his teammates, and early in his career he did just that.For that reason amongst others, that's what broke he and Shaq apart prematurely. Those attributes combined with a sense of narcissism can take away from team unity.Nonetheless, Bryant has transformed himself into a far more engaging teammate who can have fun with his team, but distinguish that from the task at hand, winning.James on the other hand has always had the complete respect of his teammates, and often is the most engaging, fun-oriented player on the floor.Since being a Cavalier, James has had many visibly jovial moments with his team such as dancing and different versions of high-fives and silly on-court antics.Some outlets have argued that James' demeanor isn't serious enough, and that's why he hasn't won a title yet, Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
similar to the assertions that Dwight Howard faces.James proved the type of teammate he is when he received the MVP award this season.He brought the entire team out to accept it with him, and that kind of appreciation is what makes him the ultimate teammate.James willfully distributes the basketball and openly applauds his teammates when they do well. Bryant is very hard on his teammates and extremely demanding similar to Jordan.The work-ethic example that Bryant sets and expects from his teammates makes them better, and despite his aggressive nature he has evolved into a fearless leader.So has James, except he does it in a more comfortable way.Advantage: JamesThe fact is, Bryant is still a superstar and a force to be reckoned with. Nobody can take thataway from him.Hiscurtain is just closed on being the best player in the world.Bryant's place is etched in history, but individually it's time for him to make like thefamily dog and move over foryour daughter'snew puppy.Consider the torch passed, and blazing with fire.
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 Kevin Garnett Shows More Signs of Bill Russell Than Dwight Howard
Doug Benc/Getty ImagesThe Celtics are pointing the way to the inevitable for the Orlando Magic, an excuse not to want to come back to the TD Garden. They flat out Manny Pacquiao'd the Magic and took a 2-0 home court advantage back to Beantown.Every time Orlando landed a blow of their own, Celtics Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
cut-man Ed Lacerte was there to be sent back on the court to patch them up.The Magic, on the other hand, tried to land a jab and missed a half-court desperation shot from Jameer Nelson.The question is, do the Celtics have the killer instinct that is necessary to slowly carve the life out of Orlando?Bob Couscy said that as soon as theysteppedfoot on the court their thought was to annihilate the opponent. Their only thought and purpose was to win another championship.Bill Russell said they would look down the other end of the court and, instead of warming up, the opposing team would be watching them. They knew then that they were in their heads.The Magic aren't necessarily doing that, but the Celtics are toasting them, and it looks like they are about done.This version of the lads in green is beginning to display the mentality that Cooz and Russell's teams had. They accept their roles and understand the chances of getting a championship are elevated.These Celtics lookeerilysimilar to the last run that Russell had. They limped into the playoffs with a team that was showing its collective age. Their core group had somehow managedtoget out of the East and the heavily favoredLakershad all but beenchristenedchampions.You know the storybook ending. The Celtics won Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
and the Lakers were as deflated as the soon to be balloons they had stored in the Forum's rafters.Pundits are quick to associate Howard's name with the great Russell, which is an insult to him and Kevin Garnett. It was Garnett that got to embrace Russell as a champion in 2008, stating proudly that he had his own ring now. Russell had promised KG that he would give him one of his 11 championship rings if he lost.Don't you think KG took that to heart? Kevin is a prideful guy; his work ethic and personality demands that of himself and his teammates. Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
That single utterance from Mr. Russell drove him to Banner 17.Don't you think that he is using the fact that Howard is considered more Russell-like than him to fuel himself? After all, he was part of the core that won the last championship in the house that Russell built.Don't you think he is just insane enough to accomplish his mission to once and for all show that he is more Russell-like than anyone ever thought by raising Banner 18?More on Causewaystreethoops
cut-man Ed Lacerte was there to be sent back on the court to patch them up.The Magic, on the other hand, tried to land a jab and missed a half-court desperation shot from Jameer Nelson.The question is, do the Celtics have the killer instinct that is necessary to slowly carve the life out of Orlando?Bob Couscy said that as soon as theysteppedfoot on the court their thought was to annihilate the opponent. Their only thought and purpose was to win another championship.Bill Russell said they would look down the other end of the court and, instead of warming up, the opposing team would be watching them. They knew then that they were in their heads.The Magic aren't necessarily doing that, but the Celtics are toasting them, and it looks like they are about done.This version of the lads in green is beginning to display the mentality that Cooz and Russell's teams had. They accept their roles and understand the chances of getting a championship are elevated.These Celtics lookeerilysimilar to the last run that Russell had. They limped into the playoffs with a team that was showing its collective age. Their core group had somehow managedtoget out of the East and the heavily favoredLakershad all but beenchristenedchampions.You know the storybook ending. The Celtics won Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
and the Lakers were as deflated as the soon to be balloons they had stored in the Forum's rafters.Pundits are quick to associate Howard's name with the great Russell, which is an insult to him and Kevin Garnett. It was Garnett that got to embrace Russell as a champion in 2008, stating proudly that he had his own ring now. Russell had promised KG that he would give him one of his 11 championship rings if he lost.Don't you think KG took that to heart? Kevin is a prideful guy; his work ethic and personality demands that of himself and his teammates. Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
That single utterance from Mr. Russell drove him to Banner 17.Don't you think that he is using the fact that Howard is considered more Russell-like than him to fuel himself? After all, he was part of the core that won the last championship in the house that Russell built.Don't you think he is just insane enough to accomplish his mission to once and for all show that he is more Russell-like than anyone ever thought by raising Banner 18?More on Causewaystreethoops
2010年12月26日星期日
26 Dec 10 Why This Edition Of Lakers-Celtics Will (Or Won't) Be Different
Jim Rogash/Getty ImagesAlright, enough with the Conference Finals. Enough with exaggeration and panic and fans and media alike going crazy. Time for something REALLY compelling.No match-up in basketball - heck, no match-up in SPORTS - is more compelling, more exciting, more bloodcurdling than Lakers-Celtics...or Celtics-Lakers, to be fair to both sides of the coin. No two teams have ever met so often to determine the champions of their sport.Not Dodgers-Yankees. Not Cowboys-Steelers. Not even close.With 32 leagues championships and 50 (that's right) Finals appearances between the two before this year, it only makes sense that the Lakers and Celtics would meet once again. Before the summer solstice rolls around, the combined total of Larry O'Brien trophies forSan Diego Chargers jersey
these two teams will be 33. The big question, though, is who will take that title home?Some favor the Celtics, who ultimately embarrassed the Lakers in the Finals two years ago for their first NBA Championship since the glory days of Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parrish. Some favor the Lakers, who, since said trouncing, have won a championship, added the defensively tenacious Ron Artest, and grown into a tougher and more resilient unit as a whole.That being said, let's take a look at what's changed since the 2008 Finals match-up between LA and Boston and see how those changes could affect the outcome of this year's edition:ExperienceThe most obvious change that's taken place over the last two years, for both teams, is the growth in experience. The two years since the 2008 Finals have seen each team confront new and different challenges with a variety of results. Most significantly, this year's version of the Lakers now has the championship pedigree to match that of the Celtics, after Kobe Bryant led his squad to the 2009 NBA Championship over the Orlando Magic in five games.On the other hand, it's not as though the C's have been sitting at home, twiddling their thumbs the entire time. Boston nearly made a return trip to the Eastern Conference Finals last year and, if not for the absence of Kevin Garnett due to injury, it might be looking at a potential three-peat this year. Such experiences have certainly strengthened Boston as a whole, making them that much more of a threat now that KG is back.Roster ChangesEach of these two basketball juggernauts has made significant personnel changes since they last met in the championship round. No longer can Boston rely on Eddie House to hit daggers and James Posey to stick to his opponents like glue off the bench. No longer can LA watch native son Trevor Ariza do both of those things from his spot in the starting lineup.These roles will now be played by entirely different actors. The Celtics have added Rasheed Wallace, the fiery and well-seasoned ex-Blazer and Piston, to their reserves, along with his three-point shooting, low post defense, and championship experience. Though far less heralded than 'Sheed, Nate Robinson brings with him plenty of San Francisco 49ers jersey
spark, as evidenced by his performance in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Finals, wherein he practically scorched the nets with his hot shooting.For the Lakers, the de facto replacement of Ariza with Ron Artest has been combed over time and again in the sports media. Though Ron-Ron may not be "sharpshooter" that Ariza allegedly was, he carries with him the kind of size, strength, tenacity, and know-how that should enable him to do what neither Trevor Ariza nor a fake injury could last time around - stop Paul Pierce.Same Players, Different MindsetsFor the most part, the Lakers and Celtics return with the same core group of players. However, there are some notable changes among those returning for this go-round. Since 2008, the Celtics have morphed from a three-headed monster into the Fantastic Four, with Rajon Rondo developing into an All-Star and All-NBA-caliber point guard alongside the veteran stalwarts of Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, and Kevin Garnett. Unlike last time, when Boston depended on the Big Three to get it done and were happy with whatever Rondo could give them, the Celtics now rely on Rajon to make plays for himself and distribute the ball effectively to his superstar teammates, which he has proven capable of doing, especially in this year's playoffs.Such would seem like a pure advantage for the Celtics, if not for changes to the Lakers' key components as well. Last time, Boston dominated LA's frontline with a blend of size and physicality that Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom struggled to match. This time, the Lakers have Andrew Bynum who, though once again hampered by a bad knee, will at the very least provide the Purple and Gold with another big body to throw at KG and Kendrick Perkins. Add to this the improved toughness and overall prime-of-his-career play of Pau Gasol, the Phoenix-like (pun intended?) resurrection of Derek Fisher's shooting stroke, and the payback mindset behind Kobe's unmatched determination and competitiveness, and the Lakers have a few tricks up their own sleeve as well.Overall, it's difficult to say definitively who now holds the edge in this age-old rivalry. Sure, the Lakers have improved, but so have the Celtics. As a Lakers' fan, I will be Seattle Seahawks jersey
rooting harder than ever for Kobe and the gang against the much-despised Paul Pierce and his band of goons. However, I expect an entertaining and intriguing series, as always, between these two historically dominant franchises.And the Lakers in six.
these two teams will be 33. The big question, though, is who will take that title home?Some favor the Celtics, who ultimately embarrassed the Lakers in the Finals two years ago for their first NBA Championship since the glory days of Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parrish. Some favor the Lakers, who, since said trouncing, have won a championship, added the defensively tenacious Ron Artest, and grown into a tougher and more resilient unit as a whole.That being said, let's take a look at what's changed since the 2008 Finals match-up between LA and Boston and see how those changes could affect the outcome of this year's edition:ExperienceThe most obvious change that's taken place over the last two years, for both teams, is the growth in experience. The two years since the 2008 Finals have seen each team confront new and different challenges with a variety of results. Most significantly, this year's version of the Lakers now has the championship pedigree to match that of the Celtics, after Kobe Bryant led his squad to the 2009 NBA Championship over the Orlando Magic in five games.On the other hand, it's not as though the C's have been sitting at home, twiddling their thumbs the entire time. Boston nearly made a return trip to the Eastern Conference Finals last year and, if not for the absence of Kevin Garnett due to injury, it might be looking at a potential three-peat this year. Such experiences have certainly strengthened Boston as a whole, making them that much more of a threat now that KG is back.Roster ChangesEach of these two basketball juggernauts has made significant personnel changes since they last met in the championship round. No longer can Boston rely on Eddie House to hit daggers and James Posey to stick to his opponents like glue off the bench. No longer can LA watch native son Trevor Ariza do both of those things from his spot in the starting lineup.These roles will now be played by entirely different actors. The Celtics have added Rasheed Wallace, the fiery and well-seasoned ex-Blazer and Piston, to their reserves, along with his three-point shooting, low post defense, and championship experience. Though far less heralded than 'Sheed, Nate Robinson brings with him plenty of San Francisco 49ers jersey
spark, as evidenced by his performance in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Finals, wherein he practically scorched the nets with his hot shooting.For the Lakers, the de facto replacement of Ariza with Ron Artest has been combed over time and again in the sports media. Though Ron-Ron may not be "sharpshooter" that Ariza allegedly was, he carries with him the kind of size, strength, tenacity, and know-how that should enable him to do what neither Trevor Ariza nor a fake injury could last time around - stop Paul Pierce.Same Players, Different MindsetsFor the most part, the Lakers and Celtics return with the same core group of players. However, there are some notable changes among those returning for this go-round. Since 2008, the Celtics have morphed from a three-headed monster into the Fantastic Four, with Rajon Rondo developing into an All-Star and All-NBA-caliber point guard alongside the veteran stalwarts of Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, and Kevin Garnett. Unlike last time, when Boston depended on the Big Three to get it done and were happy with whatever Rondo could give them, the Celtics now rely on Rajon to make plays for himself and distribute the ball effectively to his superstar teammates, which he has proven capable of doing, especially in this year's playoffs.Such would seem like a pure advantage for the Celtics, if not for changes to the Lakers' key components as well. Last time, Boston dominated LA's frontline with a blend of size and physicality that Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom struggled to match. This time, the Lakers have Andrew Bynum who, though once again hampered by a bad knee, will at the very least provide the Purple and Gold with another big body to throw at KG and Kendrick Perkins. Add to this the improved toughness and overall prime-of-his-career play of Pau Gasol, the Phoenix-like (pun intended?) resurrection of Derek Fisher's shooting stroke, and the payback mindset behind Kobe's unmatched determination and competitiveness, and the Lakers have a few tricks up their own sleeve as well.Overall, it's difficult to say definitively who now holds the edge in this age-old rivalry. Sure, the Lakers have improved, but so have the Celtics. As a Lakers' fan, I will be Seattle Seahawks jersey
rooting harder than ever for Kobe and the gang against the much-despised Paul Pierce and his band of goons. However, I expect an entertaining and intriguing series, as always, between these two historically dominant franchises.And the Lakers in six.
2010年12月25日星期六
25 Dec 10 Is Stephen Curry Set To Join the Ranks of Elite NBA Point Guards?
Ethan Miller/Getty ImagesWhen Team USA basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski was asked what impressed him most about finalist Stephen Curry's game, his response may have come as a surprise.Coach K said that Curry's on-ball defense was much more advanced than he first Denver Broncos jersey
thought. Although surprising, this statement is one that fans of the Golden State Warriors are surely happy to hear.Most people would have thought Coach K's first assessment would at least mention Curry's amazing shooting stroke, and although that is the main reason he is still in contention for a spot on the National team, his defensive improvement is welcome news.Curry is one of four point guards, along with Rajon Rondo, Derrick Rose, and Russell Westbrook, who still harbor hopes of wearing the National team's colors. But, his shooting ability may give him a slight edge when making final decisions.Curry and Kevin Durant are probably the most accomplished long distance shooters remaining on the roster, and with the premium placed on outside shooting in International play, it's a good chance that Curry could make the team.Rondo and Rose are considered to be among the top point guards in the NBA, and Tyreke Evans, who beat Curry out for last season's NBA Rookie of the Year award, has already been cut. This bodes well for Curry.Coach K's opinion may be a little biased since he will have the opportunity to coach Curry's younger brother Seth at Duke University this season, and both players have similar shooting strokes.But, Coach K went on to say Stephen was one of the most intelligent point guards he had ever seen, and that his natural basketball instincts could place him among the NBA's top point guards next season.That's strong praise coming from a person who had the benefit of coaching college talent like Jason Williams. Curry's continued development is a boon for the Warriors, who are having postseason thoughts for next year.Golden State is in the midst of a complete team overhaul from the owner down to coach Don Detroit Lions
Nelson, and with a re-vamped roster, expectations are high for the Warriors.It all begins and ends with Curry at the helm, and his on-ball defense was seen as an area that needed a little improvement in an otherwise sparkling rookie campaign.Some people have concerns about Curry's size. Although he does have a thinbuild, Curry's 6'3 frame is on par with most of the NBA's elite point guards.Curry will need to get stronger in order to contend physically with guards such as Deron Williams and Chauncey Billups, but his strength is not as detrimental as it may seem.Good man to man defense is as much about predicting where the opposition will go and beatingthem to the spot, as it is about having the physical strength to keep them out of the lane.The best defensive players also have strong basketball instincts, and as previously mentioned, Curry' basketball instincts are impressive.Curry's vision in the open court is already above average, and he is a much better ball-handler than he receives credit for, so is it plausible to Green Bay Packers jersey
think Curry could join the ranks of elite NBA point guards next season?Curry also has the benefit of his magnificent jump shot, which is already arguably the best in the NBA, and a gre
thought. Although surprising, this statement is one that fans of the Golden State Warriors are surely happy to hear.Most people would have thought Coach K's first assessment would at least mention Curry's amazing shooting stroke, and although that is the main reason he is still in contention for a spot on the National team, his defensive improvement is welcome news.Curry is one of four point guards, along with Rajon Rondo, Derrick Rose, and Russell Westbrook, who still harbor hopes of wearing the National team's colors. But, his shooting ability may give him a slight edge when making final decisions.Curry and Kevin Durant are probably the most accomplished long distance shooters remaining on the roster, and with the premium placed on outside shooting in International play, it's a good chance that Curry could make the team.Rondo and Rose are considered to be among the top point guards in the NBA, and Tyreke Evans, who beat Curry out for last season's NBA Rookie of the Year award, has already been cut. This bodes well for Curry.Coach K's opinion may be a little biased since he will have the opportunity to coach Curry's younger brother Seth at Duke University this season, and both players have similar shooting strokes.But, Coach K went on to say Stephen was one of the most intelligent point guards he had ever seen, and that his natural basketball instincts could place him among the NBA's top point guards next season.That's strong praise coming from a person who had the benefit of coaching college talent like Jason Williams. Curry's continued development is a boon for the Warriors, who are having postseason thoughts for next year.Golden State is in the midst of a complete team overhaul from the owner down to coach Don Detroit Lions
Nelson, and with a re-vamped roster, expectations are high for the Warriors.It all begins and ends with Curry at the helm, and his on-ball defense was seen as an area that needed a little improvement in an otherwise sparkling rookie campaign.Some people have concerns about Curry's size. Although he does have a thinbuild, Curry's 6'3 frame is on par with most of the NBA's elite point guards.Curry will need to get stronger in order to contend physically with guards such as Deron Williams and Chauncey Billups, but his strength is not as detrimental as it may seem.Good man to man defense is as much about predicting where the opposition will go and beatingthem to the spot, as it is about having the physical strength to keep them out of the lane.The best defensive players also have strong basketball instincts, and as previously mentioned, Curry' basketball instincts are impressive.Curry's vision in the open court is already above average, and he is a much better ball-handler than he receives credit for, so is it plausible to Green Bay Packers jersey
think Curry could join the ranks of elite NBA point guards next season?Curry also has the benefit of his magnificent jump shot, which is already arguably the best in the NBA, and a gre
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 Cleveland Cavaliers Are Set To Be a Competitive Team Contrary to Popular Opinion
Cleveland Cavaliers JaMario Moon (left) and Ramon Sessions have a laugh during warm upsWhen LeBron James left the city of Cleveland for the Miami Heat in the recent off season, he put a dagger in the hearts of everything Cleveland Cavaliers. The Team, the Fans, the City, everything was affected.The King tore his kingdom apart to the point where his followers displayed their frustrations and high emotions every which way they could. From trash-talking to burning their LeBron gear, the fans held nothing back.Neither did owner Arizona Cardinals jersey
Dan Gilbert whose comments are almost as famous as LeBron's choice to leave. James talked all the time about bring a championship to Cleveland and Gilbert did everything in his power to help that to happen, as well as the rest of the front office.Now, without their two-time reigning MVP, the Cleveland Cavaliers have been written off as at best the eighth seed. All there is to think about that is the league couldn't be more wrong.Mike Brown was relieved of his duties and replaced by fast-paced coach Byron Scott. He helped the New Orleans Hornets come back to contention, and now he is in Cleveland to keep them in contention.With a faster-paced offense and a group of new and old players, the Cavaliers are set for success, even if it doesn't match the success of the last two seasons.Point Guard: Mo Williams, Ramon Sessions, Daniel GibsonIn the 2009-2010 season, Mo Williams was the Cavaliers' starting point guard. He was their second scoring option behind James. He has averaged around 17 points a game in his two years with the Cavaliers. With more chances likely to come his way, he could score somewhere to around 20 points a game.Ramon Sessions, the Cavaliers' key offseason acquisition via trade from the Timberwolves, is set to have a breakout season with the team. In his three seasons in the NBA, Sessions hasn't had much success. He never fit any teams' style of play, but he is expected to fit coach Scott's very smoothly.The Cavaliers haven't had a true point guard in awhile, one who passes first and is aggressive to the basket. In the 2008-2009 season with the Milwaukee Bucks, Sessions averaged 12.4 points a game and 5.7 assists per game. If he can duplicate those numbers, he will be considered a success.Then comes Daniel "Boobie," Gibson, a fan favorite in Cleveland. Gibson, is a very physical defender, who can be lights out from three-point range once he hits his grove. He never got that with ex-coach Brown's unorthodox lineups. Coach Scott should use Boobie to his advantage.Summary: The Cavaliers have some dynamic options at point guard. Ability to score and aggressiveness shouldn't be a concern here. The defense might not be lights out but they will be able to get the job Atlanta Falcons jersey
done.Cavaliers shooting guard Anthony Parker looks to scoreGrade: B+Shooting Guard: Anthony Parker, Manny Harris, Daniel GreenAnthony Parker was brought to the Cavaliers to offer some kind of stability to the team's shooting guard position. Though many would disagree, he did just that. He is a solid defender, and lights out from beyond the arc. If he gets his touches this season, he could average somewhere around 15 points a game.The undrafted rookie free agent (no longer) Manny Harris is turning some heads in the organization this preseason. In five games this preseason (no starts) he is averaging 19.6 minutes per game. In those minutes, he is averaging 9.8 points per game, 2.4 assists per game, 1.2 steals per game and 3.4 rebounds per game.All of this while shooting .500 from the floor, .571 from beyond the arc, and he is making 85 percent of his foul shots. He is quick, aggressive and a scorer, something the team has lacked behind James and Williams in the past.It's pretty impressive considering he went undrafted. To put it in a simple way the man can get things done and at the end of every day he is going to get his points. AP isn't amazing so if Harris keeps it up he will definitely get his minutes behind Parker. With an expanded role, who knows what kind of numbers he is capable of.Cavs forward JaMario Moon gets vertical for a shotAnd then there was Daniel Green. Drafted by the Cavaliers with the last pick of the draft last year, Green didn't exactly impress during the 09-10 season. Not to say he was horrible, but he didn't open up anyone's eyes in any sense. He should look to get a small amount of minutes, if any at all.Summary: With a solid veteran starting and a energy-filled rookie manning the position, the Cavaliers should get some success from the position. Nothing too special, but not too shabby, unless of course Manny Harris gets significant playing time and decides to play rookie of the year basketball.Grade: C+Small Forward: Jamario Moon, Christian Eyenga, Jawad Williams, Joey Graham,(Antawn Jamison)The Cavalierssmall forwardposition is interesting. The only player we should know what to expect from is Jamario Moon. He is tall, athletic, is a solid defender, and can drive to the basket. I Baltimore Ravens jersey
personally think his three-ball is underrated also.From there we have Christian Eyenga. He was the Cavaliers' first-round draft choice a year ago, and the team should play him often. He is young and the Cavaliers have to see what he is capable of. Jawad Williams and Joey Graham are OK, but they are old.What will JJ Hickson's numbers resemble this season?What will JJ Hickson's numbers resemble this season?10-12 points, 6-8 rebounds per game0.0%12-15 points, 8-10 rebounds per game100.0%15-18 points, 12-12 rebounds per game0.0%Total votes: 1Give Eyenga the playing time and only use Williams or Graham when necessary.An interesting player here is Antawn Jamison. Coach Scott has declared Jamison will come off the bench but if the Cavaliers want to win games, Jamison has to get as much playing time as possible. Although he is older now, he is athletic and quick enough to play small forward.Summary: It may be tough but with the right rotation and lineups, Moon, Eyenga and Jamison will all be able to get minutes at this position. If utilized right, the Cavaliers small forward position could be one of successes in the upcoming season.Grade: C+Power Forward: J.J. Hickson, Antawn Jamison, Leon Powe, Samardo Samuels(Anderson Varejao)During last season, J.J. Hickson was talked about in many trade rumors with the Cavaliers but Cleveland's answer was always NO! They have big expectations of J.J. and many think he is ready for a breakout season. Coach Scott has declared him the starter.Antawn Jamison, possibly the team's best overall player, looks to come off the bench here as well as at small forward. While Hickson is an aggressive inside scorer, Jamison can mix it up with his excellent outside and mid-range Carolina Panthers jersey
shooting.Cavaliers newly acquired center Ryan Hollins goes for a reboundLeon Powe, who didn't quite live up to the fans' expectations last year, looks to prove himself this year. If he is healthy, he could be a solid rotation player for the Cavaliers.Nobody should expect much from Samardo Samuels, as he is looking to be a reserve this season.Varejao, looking to play center for the Cavaliers, will also get some minutes at power forward. If the team is looking for a taller lineup or some players need rest, look for Varejao to step in here.Summary: The Cavaliers have great versatility here, combining youth and experience. If Hickson steps up like expected, the Cavaliers' power forward position will be an area their opponents have to build their gameplan around.Grade: B+Center: Ryan Hollins, Anderson VarejaoRyan Hollins, acquired in the trade that also landed the Cavaliers Ramon Sessions, is a tall athletic center who comes to Cleveland expecting his biggest role with a team ever. The man has never averaged more than 17 minutes a game in his career.He has always been a bench player. On a team where the center position is thin, he should get an expanded role so he can finally show his true colors, whether they be good or bad.Cavaliers new head coach Byron ScottVarejao, the Cavaliers key bench player last season and a Sixth Man of the Year candidate, should get an even bigger role this year. Whether he starts or not isn't for sure yet, but man he is a great bench player so it wouldn't be surprising if he came off the bench and Hollins started.Varejao should definitely get most of the minutes at center, whether he starts or not.Summary: Neither players here should be a focal point of the team but both can make their contributions. Their mindset should be to get as many rebounds as possible to help out the rest of the team, and score when given the opportunity.Grade: COverall Summary: The Cavaliers' roster should rely on their athleticism and seek to win their games. Never quit coming and never let the opposing team catch a breather.The team is full of athletic players, and I for one think it is no coincidence. If the Cavaliers' defense can rise up to the challenge, they can be a scary team.The thing that should be a concern is mismatches. The Cavaliers don't have an answer for players like Dwight Howard or LeBron James. The only thing they can hope to do is play suffocating defense and keep their players fresh.Cavaliers new logoOverall Chicago Bears jersey
Team Grade: B-The new team slogan is "All for one, one for all." No one player should win or lose ball games for us. Every player will make his contributions. If we lose, it will be because of a failed team effort. That's much better than a one man effort resulting in failure.Projected starting lineup:PG Mo WilliamsSG Anthony ParkerSF Jamario MoonPF J.J. HicksonC Anderson VarejaoBench:G Ramon SessionsG Daniel GibsonG Manny HarrisF Christian EyengaF Antawn JamisonF Leon PoweC Ryan HollinsReserves:G Daniel GreenF Jawad WilliamsF Samardo Samuels/Joey GrahamSide Note: I personally think that Mo Williams and Varejao should come off the bench and let Sessions and Hollins start. Sessions is better at running an offense, and Varejao is much better off of the bench.Nonetheless, look for the Cavaliers to contend this season, turning some heads in the process.GO 2010-2011 CLEVELAND CAVALIERS!!! GET THAT WEAK STUFF OUTA HERE!
Dan Gilbert whose comments are almost as famous as LeBron's choice to leave. James talked all the time about bring a championship to Cleveland and Gilbert did everything in his power to help that to happen, as well as the rest of the front office.Now, without their two-time reigning MVP, the Cleveland Cavaliers have been written off as at best the eighth seed. All there is to think about that is the league couldn't be more wrong.Mike Brown was relieved of his duties and replaced by fast-paced coach Byron Scott. He helped the New Orleans Hornets come back to contention, and now he is in Cleveland to keep them in contention.With a faster-paced offense and a group of new and old players, the Cavaliers are set for success, even if it doesn't match the success of the last two seasons.Point Guard: Mo Williams, Ramon Sessions, Daniel GibsonIn the 2009-2010 season, Mo Williams was the Cavaliers' starting point guard. He was their second scoring option behind James. He has averaged around 17 points a game in his two years with the Cavaliers. With more chances likely to come his way, he could score somewhere to around 20 points a game.Ramon Sessions, the Cavaliers' key offseason acquisition via trade from the Timberwolves, is set to have a breakout season with the team. In his three seasons in the NBA, Sessions hasn't had much success. He never fit any teams' style of play, but he is expected to fit coach Scott's very smoothly.The Cavaliers haven't had a true point guard in awhile, one who passes first and is aggressive to the basket. In the 2008-2009 season with the Milwaukee Bucks, Sessions averaged 12.4 points a game and 5.7 assists per game. If he can duplicate those numbers, he will be considered a success.Then comes Daniel "Boobie," Gibson, a fan favorite in Cleveland. Gibson, is a very physical defender, who can be lights out from three-point range once he hits his grove. He never got that with ex-coach Brown's unorthodox lineups. Coach Scott should use Boobie to his advantage.Summary: The Cavaliers have some dynamic options at point guard. Ability to score and aggressiveness shouldn't be a concern here. The defense might not be lights out but they will be able to get the job Atlanta Falcons jersey
done.Cavaliers shooting guard Anthony Parker looks to scoreGrade: B+Shooting Guard: Anthony Parker, Manny Harris, Daniel GreenAnthony Parker was brought to the Cavaliers to offer some kind of stability to the team's shooting guard position. Though many would disagree, he did just that. He is a solid defender, and lights out from beyond the arc. If he gets his touches this season, he could average somewhere around 15 points a game.The undrafted rookie free agent (no longer) Manny Harris is turning some heads in the organization this preseason. In five games this preseason (no starts) he is averaging 19.6 minutes per game. In those minutes, he is averaging 9.8 points per game, 2.4 assists per game, 1.2 steals per game and 3.4 rebounds per game.All of this while shooting .500 from the floor, .571 from beyond the arc, and he is making 85 percent of his foul shots. He is quick, aggressive and a scorer, something the team has lacked behind James and Williams in the past.It's pretty impressive considering he went undrafted. To put it in a simple way the man can get things done and at the end of every day he is going to get his points. AP isn't amazing so if Harris keeps it up he will definitely get his minutes behind Parker. With an expanded role, who knows what kind of numbers he is capable of.Cavs forward JaMario Moon gets vertical for a shotAnd then there was Daniel Green. Drafted by the Cavaliers with the last pick of the draft last year, Green didn't exactly impress during the 09-10 season. Not to say he was horrible, but he didn't open up anyone's eyes in any sense. He should look to get a small amount of minutes, if any at all.Summary: With a solid veteran starting and a energy-filled rookie manning the position, the Cavaliers should get some success from the position. Nothing too special, but not too shabby, unless of course Manny Harris gets significant playing time and decides to play rookie of the year basketball.Grade: C+Small Forward: Jamario Moon, Christian Eyenga, Jawad Williams, Joey Graham,(Antawn Jamison)The Cavalierssmall forwardposition is interesting. The only player we should know what to expect from is Jamario Moon. He is tall, athletic, is a solid defender, and can drive to the basket. I Baltimore Ravens jersey
personally think his three-ball is underrated also.From there we have Christian Eyenga. He was the Cavaliers' first-round draft choice a year ago, and the team should play him often. He is young and the Cavaliers have to see what he is capable of. Jawad Williams and Joey Graham are OK, but they are old.What will JJ Hickson's numbers resemble this season?What will JJ Hickson's numbers resemble this season?10-12 points, 6-8 rebounds per game0.0%12-15 points, 8-10 rebounds per game100.0%15-18 points, 12-12 rebounds per game0.0%Total votes: 1Give Eyenga the playing time and only use Williams or Graham when necessary.An interesting player here is Antawn Jamison. Coach Scott has declared Jamison will come off the bench but if the Cavaliers want to win games, Jamison has to get as much playing time as possible. Although he is older now, he is athletic and quick enough to play small forward.Summary: It may be tough but with the right rotation and lineups, Moon, Eyenga and Jamison will all be able to get minutes at this position. If utilized right, the Cavaliers small forward position could be one of successes in the upcoming season.Grade: C+Power Forward: J.J. Hickson, Antawn Jamison, Leon Powe, Samardo Samuels(Anderson Varejao)During last season, J.J. Hickson was talked about in many trade rumors with the Cavaliers but Cleveland's answer was always NO! They have big expectations of J.J. and many think he is ready for a breakout season. Coach Scott has declared him the starter.Antawn Jamison, possibly the team's best overall player, looks to come off the bench here as well as at small forward. While Hickson is an aggressive inside scorer, Jamison can mix it up with his excellent outside and mid-range Carolina Panthers jersey
shooting.Cavaliers newly acquired center Ryan Hollins goes for a reboundLeon Powe, who didn't quite live up to the fans' expectations last year, looks to prove himself this year. If he is healthy, he could be a solid rotation player for the Cavaliers.Nobody should expect much from Samardo Samuels, as he is looking to be a reserve this season.Varejao, looking to play center for the Cavaliers, will also get some minutes at power forward. If the team is looking for a taller lineup or some players need rest, look for Varejao to step in here.Summary: The Cavaliers have great versatility here, combining youth and experience. If Hickson steps up like expected, the Cavaliers' power forward position will be an area their opponents have to build their gameplan around.Grade: B+Center: Ryan Hollins, Anderson VarejaoRyan Hollins, acquired in the trade that also landed the Cavaliers Ramon Sessions, is a tall athletic center who comes to Cleveland expecting his biggest role with a team ever. The man has never averaged more than 17 minutes a game in his career.He has always been a bench player. On a team where the center position is thin, he should get an expanded role so he can finally show his true colors, whether they be good or bad.Cavaliers new head coach Byron ScottVarejao, the Cavaliers key bench player last season and a Sixth Man of the Year candidate, should get an even bigger role this year. Whether he starts or not isn't for sure yet, but man he is a great bench player so it wouldn't be surprising if he came off the bench and Hollins started.Varejao should definitely get most of the minutes at center, whether he starts or not.Summary: Neither players here should be a focal point of the team but both can make their contributions. Their mindset should be to get as many rebounds as possible to help out the rest of the team, and score when given the opportunity.Grade: COverall Summary: The Cavaliers' roster should rely on their athleticism and seek to win their games. Never quit coming and never let the opposing team catch a breather.The team is full of athletic players, and I for one think it is no coincidence. If the Cavaliers' defense can rise up to the challenge, they can be a scary team.The thing that should be a concern is mismatches. The Cavaliers don't have an answer for players like Dwight Howard or LeBron James. The only thing they can hope to do is play suffocating defense and keep their players fresh.Cavaliers new logoOverall Chicago Bears jersey
Team Grade: B-The new team slogan is "All for one, one for all." No one player should win or lose ball games for us. Every player will make his contributions. If we lose, it will be because of a failed team effort. That's much better than a one man effort resulting in failure.Projected starting lineup:PG Mo WilliamsSG Anthony ParkerSF Jamario MoonPF J.J. HicksonC Anderson VarejaoBench:G Ramon SessionsG Daniel GibsonG Manny HarrisF Christian EyengaF Antawn JamisonF Leon PoweC Ryan HollinsReserves:G Daniel GreenF Jawad WilliamsF Samardo Samuels/Joey GrahamSide Note: I personally think that Mo Williams and Varejao should come off the bench and let Sessions and Hollins start. Sessions is better at running an offense, and Varejao is much better off of the bench.Nonetheless, look for the Cavaliers to contend this season, turning some heads in the process.GO 2010-2011 CLEVELAND CAVALIERS!!! GET THAT WEAK STUFF OUTA HERE!
2010年12月23日星期四
23 Dec 10Mike D'Antoni Band-Aids New York Knicks' Center Problem by Starting Ronny Turiaf
Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesAllow me to invoke my inner Rick Pitino here to convey the Knicks' tenuous center dilemma at the moment. Willis Reed is not walking through that door. Patrick Ewing is not walking through that door. Marcus Camby is not walking through that door. Amar'e Stoudemire walked through that door and proudly declared the Knicks back, but to call him a combo power forward/center is silly because I'm not sure how many centers like to face-up their defender 15 feet from the basket and drive to the hole. Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
I'm also not sure how many centers are as allergic to defense as Amar'e, but that's a different story. The Knicks' saving grace down low, and perhaps overall, is 6'10" Ronny Turiaf, who serves as the perfect complement to Stoudemire. Turiaf patrols the starting center spot these days, and this partnership is proving to work wonders as they each fill each other's gaps. Turiaf is top-20 in the Eastern Conference with a plus-minus of 56 on a list filled with All-Stars. He is the ultimate team player, masking his deficiencies on the offensive end by playing aggressive and timely defense, while making all the little plays playoff contending teams need to make. The Knicks are a 6-5 team with Turiaf in the lineup, but the injury-prone big man was hurt for three games, all Knickerbocker losses. With Turiaf out and Stoudemire battling foul trouble in one of those losses against Minnesota, Kevin Love torched the Knicks for 31 points and 31 rebounds in a maestro performance that hadn't been emulated since Moses Malone sprung for 32 and 38 in 1982. When Turiaf returned from injury, he immediately began making all the little plays again, helping the Knicks to a three-game winning streak on the West Coast. He sprung for seven points, eight assists and three blocks in a 125-119 win at Golden State in 35 minutes of play. His court time was peculiar because he had played for over 30 minutes only once prior to this night. Herein lies a problem, however. The Knicks' saving grace has never played a full season Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
or averaged more than 22 minutes per game through an entire season. So how do the Knicks rectify this situation and find a Plan B when Turiaf is not on the court? Unfortunately, options are quite bleak, so the short answer is to just grin and bear it. Timofey Mozgov is coach Mike D'Antoni's pet project. This dunk tells you how this experiment is going. Mozgov looked like he was shielding himself in a nuclear bomb drill. As for 6'11", 21-year-old Anthony Randolph, he currently is becoming best friends with Eddy Curry. He also apparently has a habit of looking at coaches after making mistakes, according to the New York Daily News' Mitch Lawrence, which can't inspire D'Antoni's confidence in him. Like Mozgov, Randolph has looked lost on the basketball court and needs time to inevitably get himself out of the D'Antoni doghouse and pull himself together, but he definitely has the potential to be a cog in the Knicks rotation. Eddy Curry has eaten more donuts in one day than games played in the last two years (10). He'll need a GPS to find a way off the bench. Therefore, expect to see much of Wilson Chandler at the four, with Stoudemire patrolling the five. Chandler can play the four, but he is much more suited for the wing. He can make a timely block and plays well on defense, although he can be easily posted-up by some of the bigger power forwards in the league. A Chandler-Stoudemire-Gallinari frontcourt is a scary defensive proposition. Ultimately, the Knicks need to hope Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
Turiaf stays healthy. If he gives the Knicks 25 minutes a night consistently until April, they will return to the playoffs for the first time in seven years. If not, with the way things are going in the dregs of the East, the Knicks could still sneak in with 35 wins. After all, the 6-8 Knicks are currently sixth—in the Eastern Conference. I wonder how the 8-4 Dallas Mavericks, currently sixth in the West, feel about that?
I'm also not sure how many centers are as allergic to defense as Amar'e, but that's a different story. The Knicks' saving grace down low, and perhaps overall, is 6'10" Ronny Turiaf, who serves as the perfect complement to Stoudemire. Turiaf patrols the starting center spot these days, and this partnership is proving to work wonders as they each fill each other's gaps. Turiaf is top-20 in the Eastern Conference with a plus-minus of 56 on a list filled with All-Stars. He is the ultimate team player, masking his deficiencies on the offensive end by playing aggressive and timely defense, while making all the little plays playoff contending teams need to make. The Knicks are a 6-5 team with Turiaf in the lineup, but the injury-prone big man was hurt for three games, all Knickerbocker losses. With Turiaf out and Stoudemire battling foul trouble in one of those losses against Minnesota, Kevin Love torched the Knicks for 31 points and 31 rebounds in a maestro performance that hadn't been emulated since Moses Malone sprung for 32 and 38 in 1982. When Turiaf returned from injury, he immediately began making all the little plays again, helping the Knicks to a three-game winning streak on the West Coast. He sprung for seven points, eight assists and three blocks in a 125-119 win at Golden State in 35 minutes of play. His court time was peculiar because he had played for over 30 minutes only once prior to this night. Herein lies a problem, however. The Knicks' saving grace has never played a full season Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
or averaged more than 22 minutes per game through an entire season. So how do the Knicks rectify this situation and find a Plan B when Turiaf is not on the court? Unfortunately, options are quite bleak, so the short answer is to just grin and bear it. Timofey Mozgov is coach Mike D'Antoni's pet project. This dunk tells you how this experiment is going. Mozgov looked like he was shielding himself in a nuclear bomb drill. As for 6'11", 21-year-old Anthony Randolph, he currently is becoming best friends with Eddy Curry. He also apparently has a habit of looking at coaches after making mistakes, according to the New York Daily News' Mitch Lawrence, which can't inspire D'Antoni's confidence in him. Like Mozgov, Randolph has looked lost on the basketball court and needs time to inevitably get himself out of the D'Antoni doghouse and pull himself together, but he definitely has the potential to be a cog in the Knicks rotation. Eddy Curry has eaten more donuts in one day than games played in the last two years (10). He'll need a GPS to find a way off the bench. Therefore, expect to see much of Wilson Chandler at the four, with Stoudemire patrolling the five. Chandler can play the four, but he is much more suited for the wing. He can make a timely block and plays well on defense, although he can be easily posted-up by some of the bigger power forwards in the league. A Chandler-Stoudemire-Gallinari frontcourt is a scary defensive proposition. Ultimately, the Knicks need to hope Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
Turiaf stays healthy. If he gives the Knicks 25 minutes a night consistently until April, they will return to the playoffs for the first time in seven years. If not, with the way things are going in the dregs of the East, the Knicks could still sneak in with 35 wins. After all, the 6-8 Knicks are currently sixth—in the Eastern Conference. I wonder how the 8-4 Dallas Mavericks, currently sixth in the West, feel about that?
2010年12月22日星期三
Is Kobe Bryant in the NBA Pantheon Yet?
Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesIn Bill Simmons' "The Book of Basketball", he undertakes the formidable task of identifying the top 96 professional basketball players of all time and ranking them in order of greatness.He brings an incredible breadth of knowledge to the task, and makes his case for each player based on stats, achievements, interviews, and opinion.Simmons is first and foremost a basketball fan. He grew up going to Celtics games with his Dad in the 70's and 80's. As such, he's not an entirely impartial judge of Dallas Cowboys jersey
greatness, and cops to a few things right out of the gate: 1) He's an unabashed Celtics fan2) He believes greatness is measured more by team success (exemplified by Bill Russell) than individual stats (exemplified by Wilt Chamberlain)3) He can't stand Kobe BryantSo we know going in that Simmons will base his rankings more on rings than scoring titles, and we can assume Larry Bird will be deified while Bryant's achievements will be discounted .What are the measures of Greatness? To help make his case, Simmons includes all of the players career stats and accomplishments. It's a long, exhaustive, season by season list.In order to assist in an objective assessment of greatness, I have taken some of these individual achievements and assigned a point score, weighting each achievement based on relevance to greatness. My point system is a total swag and obviously subjective, but it can be applied objectively to all players. To the left is a legend which shows the points I'm assigning to each achievement, encodes each of the different achievements with a unique symbol and ranks them in descending order.Those with an "*" are long-standing awards which came into existence before 1960 and can be used to compare all players across the last 50+ years.The NBA Finals MVP was introduced in 1969, so can't be used as an objective measure across time. I'm giving an NBA Championship the most points because all of the greats (with the exception of perhaps Wilt Chamberlain) concur that rings matter most.So a Championship should count more than an NBA MVP. "AS_MVP" is All-Star MVP. The 'Seasons Played" marker ("+") does not have any points associated with it, but provides a way to monitor the seasons where a player was active. Why not include other stats like total points, rebounds, assists, etc in the measure? Because each player Denver Broncos jersey
contributes differently and fills up the stat sheet differently. The weighting of different stats (rebounds, points, assists, steals) is hard to normalize.Moses Malone was a rebounding machine, Jordan was a scoring machine, Magic was a play maker. Ultimately, how a player's unique talents contribute to the success of their team is what should matter most, and that success can be objectively assessed based on achievement.So Who Does Simmons Think is the Greatest? Simmons' Pyramid consists of five levels. The top level is referred to as "The Pantheon" and consists of the twelve greatest basketball players of all time. Those players (as of 2008 when Simmons wrote the book) were: 1) Michael Jordan 2) Bill Russell 3) Kareem Abdul-Jabar 4) Magic Johnson 5) Larry Bird 6) Wilt Chamberlain 7) Tim Duncan 8) Jerry West 9) Oscar Robertson 10) Hakeem Olajuwan 11) Shaquille O'Neal 12) Moses Malone Kobe Bryant was ranked 15th.Because The Pantheon is based on achievement to date, it will never be a static assemblage of players. New players will always be knocking on the door. Kobe Bryant has been knocking for a while, but is he in yet? And, more importantly, has he passed Bird yet?Has Kobe passed Larry yet? When Simmons wrote the book, Bryant and Bird each had three NBA Titles to their names. Bird also had three League MVPs and two Finals MVPs. Bryant had no Finals MVPs (Shaquille O'Neal was the Alpha Dog on the three Championship teams) and one league MVP. Looking at both Bird and Kobe's careers over the last 14 years, we can see that the Birds placement over Bryant was accurate after 12 Seasons. Detroit Lions
Bird had clearly achieved more than Bryant up to that point. The Lakers won the title in Kobe's 13th season and Kobe was the Finals MVP. The Lakers then won another championship in Kobe's 14th season (2009-10), giving Kobe five titles to his name and a second Finals MVP award. While Larry Bird was an early achiever, plateauing after nine years, Kobe got off to a slow start but has continued to climb every year since his 4th Season. After 13 Seasons, Kobe was dead even with Bird, and passed him after 14 Seasons.It would appear that Kobe is now in the Pantheon How do you account for different career Lengths?Longevity plays a huge role in a player's achievement score. While Bird's career was cut short by injuries, Kareeem Abdul Jabbar played for 20 seasons, won a championship in his nineteenth season, and finals MVP awards in both his second season (1971) and his sixteenth (1985).Kareem kept going and kept achieving at a high level. Most players are like Bird, they peak and then level-off.Bill Walton (Simmons rank: 27) is perhaps the best example of a player who's potential was cut short by injury. He was healthy through four seasons. In that time he had racked up a championship, finals MVP, and an NBA MVP. His achievements through four years surpassed both Larry Bird and Michael Jordan, and had him fifth all time behind Magic Johnson at that point in their careers. Some players, like Walton, burn brightly for short periods then quickly fade. At Walton's peak you could make an argument for him being in the Pantheon.Hakeem the Dream had a transcendent season in 93-94 where he won the NBA MVP, Defensive MVP, a championship, and the Finals MVP. No other player accomplished all of that in one season. How do you account for that kind of single season dominance in the all-time measure?Simmons accounted for it by placing Olajuwon in the Pantheon, when his total careers stats don't quite afford him that high of a rank.Whose Place in the Pantheon Did Kobe Take? Kobe's clearly in the Pantheon now. But how do you compare someone who's still adding to their achievements to those whose careers are complete?Most players have reached their peak by their 14th season and then plateau. The 97-98 Season was the 14th Season after Jordan entered the league (but only his 12th complete season as a result of the baseball sabbatical). In the 97-98 Season, Jordan won his 5th NBA MVP, the Bulls defeated the Utah Jazz for Jordan's 6th title and he also won his 6th Finals MVP award. Jordan retired (for the second time) after hitting the championship-clinching shot at the buzzer in game six.Magic, Bird, and Russell were effectively done after 13 Seasons (Magic briefly attempted a comeback years later). Chamberlain and West retired after 14. Kareem is the one Simmons Pantheon player who was still going strong after 14 seasons - until Kobe. Assessing all of the Pantheon players at the 14 year mark is one way to see where Kobe currently stands. The attached static charts show Simmons Pantheon of 12 plus Kobe. The line chart shows the trend of the achievement score through time, and the symbol charts below show the achievements by season.The charts only contain the first 14 seasons of Green Bay Packers jersey
each player and only include the common awards (Those in existence in pre-1960). The most significant exclusion is the "Finals MVP Award". Through 14 seasons, Russell is first, Jordan is second and Bryant is in seventh position, just behind Jerry West and just in front of Larry Bird.The player who Bryant displaced in the Pantheon was Hakeem Olajuwan. If you were to include ALL of the players in Simmons Pyramid using this criteria, three other Celtics who were on the championship teams of the 60's jump into the Pantheon: Cousy, Havlicek, and Sam Jones, with Cousy (a Simmons Level four player) jumping from 21st to fifth position all-time. Shaquille O'Neal, Oscar Robertson, and Moses Malone are the Pantheon Players who are displaced (along with Hakeem).So Who's in The All Time Pantheon now?If you were to include ALL of achievement scores (pre and post 1960), ALL of the Seasons, and ALL 96 Players, the Simmons' top 4 (Simmons' rankings are in parens) are the same players but change order. Kobe is firmly in the middle and still climbing - looking down at Bird. . . But he's still looking up at Jordan.1) Jordan (1)2) Jabbar (3)3) Russell (2) * No Finals MVP4) Johnson (4)5) Duncan (7)6) Bryant (15)7) O'Neal (11)8) Chamberlain (6)9) Havlicek (13)10) West (7)11) Bird (5)12) Cousy (21) *No Finals MVP Check out "The Ivory Sofa " for a fully interactive version of the visualization.
greatness, and cops to a few things right out of the gate: 1) He's an unabashed Celtics fan2) He believes greatness is measured more by team success (exemplified by Bill Russell) than individual stats (exemplified by Wilt Chamberlain)3) He can't stand Kobe BryantSo we know going in that Simmons will base his rankings more on rings than scoring titles, and we can assume Larry Bird will be deified while Bryant's achievements will be discounted .What are the measures of Greatness? To help make his case, Simmons includes all of the players career stats and accomplishments. It's a long, exhaustive, season by season list.In order to assist in an objective assessment of greatness, I have taken some of these individual achievements and assigned a point score, weighting each achievement based on relevance to greatness. My point system is a total swag and obviously subjective, but it can be applied objectively to all players. To the left is a legend which shows the points I'm assigning to each achievement, encodes each of the different achievements with a unique symbol and ranks them in descending order.Those with an "*" are long-standing awards which came into existence before 1960 and can be used to compare all players across the last 50+ years.The NBA Finals MVP was introduced in 1969, so can't be used as an objective measure across time. I'm giving an NBA Championship the most points because all of the greats (with the exception of perhaps Wilt Chamberlain) concur that rings matter most.So a Championship should count more than an NBA MVP. "AS_MVP" is All-Star MVP. The 'Seasons Played" marker ("+") does not have any points associated with it, but provides a way to monitor the seasons where a player was active. Why not include other stats like total points, rebounds, assists, etc in the measure? Because each player Denver Broncos jersey
contributes differently and fills up the stat sheet differently. The weighting of different stats (rebounds, points, assists, steals) is hard to normalize.Moses Malone was a rebounding machine, Jordan was a scoring machine, Magic was a play maker. Ultimately, how a player's unique talents contribute to the success of their team is what should matter most, and that success can be objectively assessed based on achievement.So Who Does Simmons Think is the Greatest? Simmons' Pyramid consists of five levels. The top level is referred to as "The Pantheon" and consists of the twelve greatest basketball players of all time. Those players (as of 2008 when Simmons wrote the book) were: 1) Michael Jordan 2) Bill Russell 3) Kareem Abdul-Jabar 4) Magic Johnson 5) Larry Bird 6) Wilt Chamberlain 7) Tim Duncan 8) Jerry West 9) Oscar Robertson 10) Hakeem Olajuwan 11) Shaquille O'Neal 12) Moses Malone Kobe Bryant was ranked 15th.Because The Pantheon is based on achievement to date, it will never be a static assemblage of players. New players will always be knocking on the door. Kobe Bryant has been knocking for a while, but is he in yet? And, more importantly, has he passed Bird yet?Has Kobe passed Larry yet? When Simmons wrote the book, Bryant and Bird each had three NBA Titles to their names. Bird also had three League MVPs and two Finals MVPs. Bryant had no Finals MVPs (Shaquille O'Neal was the Alpha Dog on the three Championship teams) and one league MVP. Looking at both Bird and Kobe's careers over the last 14 years, we can see that the Birds placement over Bryant was accurate after 12 Seasons. Detroit Lions
Bird had clearly achieved more than Bryant up to that point. The Lakers won the title in Kobe's 13th season and Kobe was the Finals MVP. The Lakers then won another championship in Kobe's 14th season (2009-10), giving Kobe five titles to his name and a second Finals MVP award. While Larry Bird was an early achiever, plateauing after nine years, Kobe got off to a slow start but has continued to climb every year since his 4th Season. After 13 Seasons, Kobe was dead even with Bird, and passed him after 14 Seasons.It would appear that Kobe is now in the Pantheon How do you account for different career Lengths?Longevity plays a huge role in a player's achievement score. While Bird's career was cut short by injuries, Kareeem Abdul Jabbar played for 20 seasons, won a championship in his nineteenth season, and finals MVP awards in both his second season (1971) and his sixteenth (1985).Kareem kept going and kept achieving at a high level. Most players are like Bird, they peak and then level-off.Bill Walton (Simmons rank: 27) is perhaps the best example of a player who's potential was cut short by injury. He was healthy through four seasons. In that time he had racked up a championship, finals MVP, and an NBA MVP. His achievements through four years surpassed both Larry Bird and Michael Jordan, and had him fifth all time behind Magic Johnson at that point in their careers. Some players, like Walton, burn brightly for short periods then quickly fade. At Walton's peak you could make an argument for him being in the Pantheon.Hakeem the Dream had a transcendent season in 93-94 where he won the NBA MVP, Defensive MVP, a championship, and the Finals MVP. No other player accomplished all of that in one season. How do you account for that kind of single season dominance in the all-time measure?Simmons accounted for it by placing Olajuwon in the Pantheon, when his total careers stats don't quite afford him that high of a rank.Whose Place in the Pantheon Did Kobe Take? Kobe's clearly in the Pantheon now. But how do you compare someone who's still adding to their achievements to those whose careers are complete?Most players have reached their peak by their 14th season and then plateau. The 97-98 Season was the 14th Season after Jordan entered the league (but only his 12th complete season as a result of the baseball sabbatical). In the 97-98 Season, Jordan won his 5th NBA MVP, the Bulls defeated the Utah Jazz for Jordan's 6th title and he also won his 6th Finals MVP award. Jordan retired (for the second time) after hitting the championship-clinching shot at the buzzer in game six.Magic, Bird, and Russell were effectively done after 13 Seasons (Magic briefly attempted a comeback years later). Chamberlain and West retired after 14. Kareem is the one Simmons Pantheon player who was still going strong after 14 seasons - until Kobe. Assessing all of the Pantheon players at the 14 year mark is one way to see where Kobe currently stands. The attached static charts show Simmons Pantheon of 12 plus Kobe. The line chart shows the trend of the achievement score through time, and the symbol charts below show the achievements by season.The charts only contain the first 14 seasons of Green Bay Packers jersey
each player and only include the common awards (Those in existence in pre-1960). The most significant exclusion is the "Finals MVP Award". Through 14 seasons, Russell is first, Jordan is second and Bryant is in seventh position, just behind Jerry West and just in front of Larry Bird.The player who Bryant displaced in the Pantheon was Hakeem Olajuwan. If you were to include ALL of the players in Simmons Pyramid using this criteria, three other Celtics who were on the championship teams of the 60's jump into the Pantheon: Cousy, Havlicek, and Sam Jones, with Cousy (a Simmons Level four player) jumping from 21st to fifth position all-time. Shaquille O'Neal, Oscar Robertson, and Moses Malone are the Pantheon Players who are displaced (along with Hakeem).So Who's in The All Time Pantheon now?If you were to include ALL of achievement scores (pre and post 1960), ALL of the Seasons, and ALL 96 Players, the Simmons' top 4 (Simmons' rankings are in parens) are the same players but change order. Kobe is firmly in the middle and still climbing - looking down at Bird. . . But he's still looking up at Jordan.1) Jordan (1)2) Jabbar (3)3) Russell (2) * No Finals MVP4) Johnson (4)5) Duncan (7)6) Bryant (15)7) O'Neal (11)8) Chamberlain (6)9) Havlicek (13)10) West (7)11) Bird (5)12) Cousy (21) *No Finals MVP Check out "The Ivory Sofa " for a fully interactive version of the visualization.
2010年12月21日星期二
Miguel Tejada: San Francisco Giants Sign the Shortstop to a One-Year Deal
Dilip Vishwanat/Getty ImagesFirst Jon Garland and now Miguel Tejada. I asked another Padre friend of mine, via Twitter, if the San Diego Padres were planning on bringing anyone back for the 2011 season. The Los Angeles Dodgers signed Garland just before Thanksgiving and now another NL West team has signed another former Padre. Minnesota Vikings
This time, it was the San Francisco Giants who signed Tejada to a one-year $6.5 million deal after losing their own shortstop, Juan Uribe, also to the Los Angeles Dodgers. What makes me question this move is the defensive liability in not only Tejada, but also with Pablo Sandoval over at third base. Tejada doesn't have the range he once had and, playing on the same side of the infield as Sandoval, it might create a problem. Maybe the Giants aren't after defense, it looks as if they are trying to upgrade their offense for next season. Though I can't say I blame them. As for the Padres, it seems a lot of fans aren't all that surprised by the move since the front office was not keen on the idea of paying Tejada nearly the amount of money the Giants gave him. Even on a one-year deal. While I do agree with the sentiment, I can't help but wonder if they are sitting on their hands and watching free agency pass them by. Or perhaps they plan to make a splash at next week's winter meetings. Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesThe team does have holes to fill in their rotation, as well as New England Patriots jersey
shortstop and second base, as David Eckstein was also not offered arbitration by the team. It's still early in the off season and there are a lot of changes to be made in quite a few teams. The Dodgers made their move, the Rockies re-signed their star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki and the Giants bring over Tejada. The Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks are the two teams yet to make any kind of a splash. Maybe next week will surprise everyone.
This time, it was the San Francisco Giants who signed Tejada to a one-year $6.5 million deal after losing their own shortstop, Juan Uribe, also to the Los Angeles Dodgers. What makes me question this move is the defensive liability in not only Tejada, but also with Pablo Sandoval over at third base. Tejada doesn't have the range he once had and, playing on the same side of the infield as Sandoval, it might create a problem. Maybe the Giants aren't after defense, it looks as if they are trying to upgrade their offense for next season. Though I can't say I blame them. As for the Padres, it seems a lot of fans aren't all that surprised by the move since the front office was not keen on the idea of paying Tejada nearly the amount of money the Giants gave him. Even on a one-year deal. While I do agree with the sentiment, I can't help but wonder if they are sitting on their hands and watching free agency pass them by. Or perhaps they plan to make a splash at next week's winter meetings. Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesThe team does have holes to fill in their rotation, as well as New England Patriots jersey
shortstop and second base, as David Eckstein was also not offered arbitration by the team. It's still early in the off season and there are a lot of changes to be made in quite a few teams. The Dodgers made their move, the Rockies re-signed their star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki and the Giants bring over Tejada. The Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks are the two teams yet to make any kind of a splash. Maybe next week will surprise everyone.
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 Fantasy Football Week 9 Aftermath: Gut Checks, Lineup Fun and Waiver Wire Picks
Streeter Lecka/Getty ImagesWith the playoffs quickly approaching, we take a look at the fantasy football landscape after a high-scoring Week Nine.Week Nine Fantasy MVPIt’s a close call this week, but let’s give a shout out to Terrell Owens. The ageless wonder torched the Steelers for Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
141 yards and two touchdowns on 10 catches. He’s been quiet off the field, but has developed quite a chemistry with Carson Palmer on it. While the Bengals are struggling, it’s certainly not Owens’ fault.Week Nine Fantasy LVPAfter bursting on to the scene last week, LeGarrette Blount crashed back down to Earth with a 46-yard performance that featured Cadillac Williams drawing the start.While that stat line isn’t horrible, he was as disappointing as any player in fantasy this week.Lineup FunYou probably won if your lineup looked like this:QB Aaron Rodgers = 289 passing yards, three passing touchdowns, 41 rushing yardsRB Peyton Hillis = 184 rushing yards, 36 receiving yards, two touchdownsRB Arian Foster = 127 rushing yards, 70 receiving yards, two touchdownsRB Michael Turner = 107 rushing yards, two touchdownsWR Terrell Owens = 10 catches, 141 yards, two touchdownsWR Seyi Ajirotutu = four catches, 111 yards, two touchdownsWR Jacoby Ford = six catches, 148 yards, KO return TDTE Jacob Tamme = 11 catches, 108 yards, one touchdownYou probably lost if your lineup looked like this…QB Chad Henne = 231 passing yards, three interceptionsRB Jonathan Stewart =30rushing yards, one lost fumbleRB Marion Barber =14 rushing yardsRB Ryan Mathews = 42 rushing yards, 18 receiving yardsWR Pierre Garcon = two catches, 15 receiving yardsWR Calvin Johnson = one catch, 13 receiving yardsWR Chad Ochocinco = one catch, 15 receiving yardsTE Ben Watson = one catch, 24 receivingyardsGut ChecksI’d be worried if…I own Jonathan Stewart in a dynasty league. You can give him a pass for one or two weeks, but this has been ugly, regardless of Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
injury.I’m relying on Miles Austin for the fantasy playoffs. His production was bound to take a hit with Tony Romo out, but this looks worse than expected.I’m expecting too much from LeGarrette Blount. While his future may be bright, it looks like Tampa is still easing him into the offense.I have Chad Ochocinco as my No. 2 wide receiver. He’s not even start-worthy as a flex player at this point.I expect Matt Forte to break out of his funk. It certainly looks like Marshall Faulk may be the only back to truly dominate in a Mike Martz offense long term.I’m not looking at Steve Johnson and Ryan Fitzpatrick as legitimate starting options.I expect anything out of Darrius Heyward-Bey. Ever.I think Ray Rice is going to still end as a top five back as long as Willis McGahee is healthy and on the Ravens roster this season.I was hoping Jon Kitna could be a viable option. It’s a train wreck.I have Steve Smith (CAR) as one of my starters. His talent is undeniable, but so is the trouble in Carolina.I own Matthew Stafford in a dynasty league. Look, he can play. There’s no doubt about it. There’s also no doubting his tendency to get injured.A Look Back at Our DynastyWaiver Suggestions for WeekNine1. Troy Smith QB SF = DNP2. Kevin Smith RB DET = 10 rushing yards, 27 receiving yards3. Rex Grossman QB WAS = DNP4. Toby Gerhart RB MIN = six rushing yards, three receiving yards5. Jordy Nelson WR GB = four catches, 42 yardsA Look Ahead to Hot Names Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
On The Week Ten Waiver Wire1. Drew Stanton, QB, DETThis is likely Drew’s last chance to stick with the Lions if Shaun Hill can’t make it back.2. Mike Goodson, RB, CARWith all the injuries the Panthers are sustaining at running back, Goodson is going to get some extended playing time here in the next few weeks.3. Donte Stallworth, WR, BALIt’s true the Ravens are loaded at wideout, but Stallworth’s speed could add a different dimension and earn him some time here shortly.4. Danny Ware, RB, NYGYou have to wonder what would happen if Bradshaw were to get worn down or injured. As it stands, the Giants may get some things wrapped up early and Ware could be a playoff asset down the road.5. Tony Pike, QB, CARMatt Moore is out for the year and Jimmy Clausen simply doesn’t look ready. Could the Panthers throw Pike into the fire?6. Jacoby Ford, WR, OAKWe mentioned Ford as a super sleeper way back in July and he showed off his potential with a 148-yard performance last week. While that will likely be his best game of the year, it’s hard to say what will shake out with the Oakland receivers the rest of the year. If anything, he’s earned a good look from the coaches.7. Javarris James, RB, INDWho knows what happens when the other Colt running backs get healthy, but anyone lining behind Manning is worth a roster spot, even if it’s just temporary.Keep in mind the names found on this list are added to ones Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
from previous weeks. That’s why you don’t see a player like Seyi Ajirotutu. We recommended him in our lineup advice column WEEKS AGO. For the prior week’s picks, check out the links below:Week OneWeek TwoWeek ThreeWeek FourWeek FiveWeek SixWeek SevenWeek EightWeek NineGood luck this week!To visit the best fantasy site you may have never heard of, click here.This article is also featured onDynasty League Football
141 yards and two touchdowns on 10 catches. He’s been quiet off the field, but has developed quite a chemistry with Carson Palmer on it. While the Bengals are struggling, it’s certainly not Owens’ fault.Week Nine Fantasy LVPAfter bursting on to the scene last week, LeGarrette Blount crashed back down to Earth with a 46-yard performance that featured Cadillac Williams drawing the start.While that stat line isn’t horrible, he was as disappointing as any player in fantasy this week.Lineup FunYou probably won if your lineup looked like this:QB Aaron Rodgers = 289 passing yards, three passing touchdowns, 41 rushing yardsRB Peyton Hillis = 184 rushing yards, 36 receiving yards, two touchdownsRB Arian Foster = 127 rushing yards, 70 receiving yards, two touchdownsRB Michael Turner = 107 rushing yards, two touchdownsWR Terrell Owens = 10 catches, 141 yards, two touchdownsWR Seyi Ajirotutu = four catches, 111 yards, two touchdownsWR Jacoby Ford = six catches, 148 yards, KO return TDTE Jacob Tamme = 11 catches, 108 yards, one touchdownYou probably lost if your lineup looked like this…QB Chad Henne = 231 passing yards, three interceptionsRB Jonathan Stewart =30rushing yards, one lost fumbleRB Marion Barber =14 rushing yardsRB Ryan Mathews = 42 rushing yards, 18 receiving yardsWR Pierre Garcon = two catches, 15 receiving yardsWR Calvin Johnson = one catch, 13 receiving yardsWR Chad Ochocinco = one catch, 15 receiving yardsTE Ben Watson = one catch, 24 receivingyardsGut ChecksI’d be worried if…I own Jonathan Stewart in a dynasty league. You can give him a pass for one or two weeks, but this has been ugly, regardless of Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
injury.I’m relying on Miles Austin for the fantasy playoffs. His production was bound to take a hit with Tony Romo out, but this looks worse than expected.I’m expecting too much from LeGarrette Blount. While his future may be bright, it looks like Tampa is still easing him into the offense.I have Chad Ochocinco as my No. 2 wide receiver. He’s not even start-worthy as a flex player at this point.I expect Matt Forte to break out of his funk. It certainly looks like Marshall Faulk may be the only back to truly dominate in a Mike Martz offense long term.I’m not looking at Steve Johnson and Ryan Fitzpatrick as legitimate starting options.I expect anything out of Darrius Heyward-Bey. Ever.I think Ray Rice is going to still end as a top five back as long as Willis McGahee is healthy and on the Ravens roster this season.I was hoping Jon Kitna could be a viable option. It’s a train wreck.I have Steve Smith (CAR) as one of my starters. His talent is undeniable, but so is the trouble in Carolina.I own Matthew Stafford in a dynasty league. Look, he can play. There’s no doubt about it. There’s also no doubting his tendency to get injured.A Look Back at Our DynastyWaiver Suggestions for WeekNine1. Troy Smith QB SF = DNP2. Kevin Smith RB DET = 10 rushing yards, 27 receiving yards3. Rex Grossman QB WAS = DNP4. Toby Gerhart RB MIN = six rushing yards, three receiving yards5. Jordy Nelson WR GB = four catches, 42 yardsA Look Ahead to Hot Names Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
On The Week Ten Waiver Wire1. Drew Stanton, QB, DETThis is likely Drew’s last chance to stick with the Lions if Shaun Hill can’t make it back.2. Mike Goodson, RB, CARWith all the injuries the Panthers are sustaining at running back, Goodson is going to get some extended playing time here in the next few weeks.3. Donte Stallworth, WR, BALIt’s true the Ravens are loaded at wideout, but Stallworth’s speed could add a different dimension and earn him some time here shortly.4. Danny Ware, RB, NYGYou have to wonder what would happen if Bradshaw were to get worn down or injured. As it stands, the Giants may get some things wrapped up early and Ware could be a playoff asset down the road.5. Tony Pike, QB, CARMatt Moore is out for the year and Jimmy Clausen simply doesn’t look ready. Could the Panthers throw Pike into the fire?6. Jacoby Ford, WR, OAKWe mentioned Ford as a super sleeper way back in July and he showed off his potential with a 148-yard performance last week. While that will likely be his best game of the year, it’s hard to say what will shake out with the Oakland receivers the rest of the year. If anything, he’s earned a good look from the coaches.7. Javarris James, RB, INDWho knows what happens when the other Colt running backs get healthy, but anyone lining behind Manning is worth a roster spot, even if it’s just temporary.Keep in mind the names found on this list are added to ones Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
from previous weeks. That’s why you don’t see a player like Seyi Ajirotutu. We recommended him in our lineup advice column WEEKS AGO. For the prior week’s picks, check out the links below:Week OneWeek TwoWeek ThreeWeek FourWeek FiveWeek SixWeek SevenWeek EightWeek NineGood luck this week!To visit the best fantasy site you may have never heard of, click here.This article is also featured onDynasty League Football
19 Dec 10 San Francisco 49ers Rumors: Troy Smith May Not Be Saving Mike Singletary's Job
Mike Singletary dressed for successJulian Finney/Getty ImagesWith his second straight performance with a QB rating of 115 or more, no interceptions, and a display of arm strength, accuracy and mobility, it appears the San Francisco 49ers have finally found a starting quarterback. Smith would seem to have the intangibles as well, most importantly leadership, nerves of steel, instincts and decision making. Smith, in only his fourth NFL start and second with the 49ers, seemed unflappable as he made several tight throws into coverage and scrambled to extend plays often finding an open receiver and avoiding the sack. Smith wasn't perfect though. Several of his passes were tipped and at times he seemed to hang onto the ball too long. However, his 356-yard performance hasReebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
forced Head Coach Mike Singletary to name him as the starting quarterback for this Sunday's game against a much improved Tampa Bay Buccaneers team. No surprise here. Anything less would have been mutiny by the fans, and perhaps the team. The move had to be made, and even Alex Smith couldn't deny it. Smith's performance has also re-energized a fan base that thinks now, just maybe, there is still a realistic shot at making the playoffs. With Troy Smith, or without him, that is still a tall order after opening the season 0-5. However in the "mild mild" NFC West, anything is possible. Troy SmithJed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesThere also seems to be a ground swell of support to keep Mike Singletary on as head coach if the team does make a historic run and makes the playoffs. Whether that means making the playoffs, winning a playoff game, or going deep into the playoffs is anybody's guess. I would think that barring an unfathomable Super Bowl appearance, the ship has already sailed for "Samurai Mike". Even ESPN has reported that the Yorks will go with Singletary until the end of the season. The only reason the Yorks haven't fired Singletary to this point is two-fold. First, there is nobody on the team to take over as an interim coach. Have you seen any names on the 49ers coaching staff involved in discussions as possible replacements for teams with anticipated coaching vacancies? Second, there is nobody in their right mind that would take a team over at mid-season with this many issues. In giving his Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
assessment of the Dallas Cowboys a couple of weeks ago, ESPN analyst and former NFL Head Coach Jon Gruden implied that the Cowboys were not in as bad of shape as the 49ers, and had much more talent on their roster (including quarterback) that would make the head coaching gig there attractive to would-be suitors (including himself?). Should Mike Singletary be fired at season's end?Should Mike Singletary be fired at season's end?Yes36.6%No22.3%Not if he makes the playoffs22.8%He must win at least one playoff game12.0%Only a Super Bowl appearance can save him6.3%Total votes: 1,191What does that say about the job "Sing" has done? The one thing that I thought "Iron Mike" would have brought to this team was discipline. The penalties that this team incurs on a week-to-week basis is embarrassing. The 2010 49ers are making the past "bad boy" Raider teams look like choir boys by leading the NFL in penalties. Until the last two games, turnovers have been another issue—although giving them up has dropped precipitously with Troy Smith at the helm. Other than having more nicknames than Apollo Creed, what does Singletary bring to a team? He brought David Carr and jettisoned Shaun Hill. He brought Jimmy Raye and then fired him for doing what he was told. He, and Trent Balkee, brought in a pretty decent draft class, but are bringing some along too fast
(Anthony Davis, Taylor Mays?). Although they did platoon Mays last week, why aren't theyReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
doing the same with Davis? Most importantly, he brought his unwavering faith in Alex Smith as his starting quarterback. A decision that he stuck with until he was forced into another option. The David Carr era in San Francisco lasted for about 35 minutes, so on comes Troy and a savior in San Francisco is anointed. But is he saving Singletary's job? Or is he just making it more attractive for other head coaching candidates?
forced Head Coach Mike Singletary to name him as the starting quarterback for this Sunday's game against a much improved Tampa Bay Buccaneers team. No surprise here. Anything less would have been mutiny by the fans, and perhaps the team. The move had to be made, and even Alex Smith couldn't deny it. Smith's performance has also re-energized a fan base that thinks now, just maybe, there is still a realistic shot at making the playoffs. With Troy Smith, or without him, that is still a tall order after opening the season 0-5. However in the "mild mild" NFC West, anything is possible. Troy SmithJed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesThere also seems to be a ground swell of support to keep Mike Singletary on as head coach if the team does make a historic run and makes the playoffs. Whether that means making the playoffs, winning a playoff game, or going deep into the playoffs is anybody's guess. I would think that barring an unfathomable Super Bowl appearance, the ship has already sailed for "Samurai Mike". Even ESPN has reported that the Yorks will go with Singletary until the end of the season. The only reason the Yorks haven't fired Singletary to this point is two-fold. First, there is nobody on the team to take over as an interim coach. Have you seen any names on the 49ers coaching staff involved in discussions as possible replacements for teams with anticipated coaching vacancies? Second, there is nobody in their right mind that would take a team over at mid-season with this many issues. In giving his Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
assessment of the Dallas Cowboys a couple of weeks ago, ESPN analyst and former NFL Head Coach Jon Gruden implied that the Cowboys were not in as bad of shape as the 49ers, and had much more talent on their roster (including quarterback) that would make the head coaching gig there attractive to would-be suitors (including himself?). Should Mike Singletary be fired at season's end?Should Mike Singletary be fired at season's end?Yes36.6%No22.3%Not if he makes the playoffs22.8%He must win at least one playoff game12.0%Only a Super Bowl appearance can save him6.3%Total votes: 1,191What does that say about the job "Sing" has done? The one thing that I thought "Iron Mike" would have brought to this team was discipline. The penalties that this team incurs on a week-to-week basis is embarrassing. The 2010 49ers are making the past "bad boy" Raider teams look like choir boys by leading the NFL in penalties. Until the last two games, turnovers have been another issue—although giving them up has dropped precipitously with Troy Smith at the helm. Other than having more nicknames than Apollo Creed, what does Singletary bring to a team? He brought David Carr and jettisoned Shaun Hill. He brought Jimmy Raye and then fired him for doing what he was told. He, and Trent Balkee, brought in a pretty decent draft class, but are bringing some along too fast
(Anthony Davis, Taylor Mays?). Although they did platoon Mays last week, why aren't theyReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
doing the same with Davis? Most importantly, he brought his unwavering faith in Alex Smith as his starting quarterback. A decision that he stuck with until he was forced into another option. The David Carr era in San Francisco lasted for about 35 minutes, so on comes Troy and a savior in San Francisco is anointed. But is he saving Singletary's job? Or is he just making it more attractive for other head coaching candidates?
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 Tyler Thigpen To Make His Case As Future Miami Dolphins Quarterback
Marc Serota/Getty ImagesThe Miami Dolphins quarterback shuffle continues.Chad Pennington will be out for the year, and that possibly could mean the end of his career.According to the Sun-Sentinel, Chad Henne will be out for the rest of the season, but according to the Associated Press, Henne's Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
injury is less severe. Thigpen will still start for the starter Thursday night against Chicago.The time is now for Tyler Thigpen.Yesterday against the Titans, Thigpen ran the offense efficiently, as he was 4 for 6 for 64 yards and a touchdown pass, with a QB rating of 141.7.On top of that, Thigpen punctuated his touchdown pass to Anthony Fasano by jumping up and celebrating like a kid opening up the PS3 he wanted so badly on Christmas morning.Maybe that show of celebration by Thigpen is a good thing. It showed poise, and that Thigpen is a sparkplug that could excite this Dolphins offense.Isn't that what we needed all along?Thigpen has been almost long forgotten by the media and most fans in the Dolphins QB controversy between Henne and Pennington. Maybe he should've been the first in line to take over instead of Pennington.Thigpen is a lot better than you may think. Yes, his season record isabominable, but the Chiefs in 2008 were a terrible team. You'll see that his stats aren't indicative of a quarterback that went 1-10 that season.Thigpen can do some exciting things on the football fieldThigpen completed 54.8 percent of his passes that season, and threw for 2,608 yards, 18 touchdowns and only 12 interceptions in 11 games.That's not even counting Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
what he did on the ground, which is necessary for the Dolphins with their banged up offensive line. There Thigpen ran 62 times (not all of those designed) for 386 yards and three touchdowns.He also had a touchdown reception that went for 37 yards. The only downside to him running is he did have six fumbles, which is still only one more than Ricky Williams that year.Yesterday we saw this offense open up as the game went on, and started to work really well once Thigpen was inserted. Is this offense more tailor-made for a Tyler Thigpen than a Chad Henne?It probably is. Because of that, with Thigpen as starter, I see Dan Henning opening up this offense and including a few plays that will maximize Thigpen's talents.Thigpen has his chance to earn a starting job in the NFL. If the Dolphins finish the season on a 6-2 clip (they already have one win), odds are Thigpen will have the starting job next season.But the time is now, and he has to show that the job should be his.Special thanks to profootballreference.com for the stats. Follow Thomas Galicia on twitter, thomasgalicia.
injury is less severe. Thigpen will still start for the starter Thursday night against Chicago.The time is now for Tyler Thigpen.Yesterday against the Titans, Thigpen ran the offense efficiently, as he was 4 for 6 for 64 yards and a touchdown pass, with a QB rating of 141.7.On top of that, Thigpen punctuated his touchdown pass to Anthony Fasano by jumping up and celebrating like a kid opening up the PS3 he wanted so badly on Christmas morning.Maybe that show of celebration by Thigpen is a good thing. It showed poise, and that Thigpen is a sparkplug that could excite this Dolphins offense.Isn't that what we needed all along?Thigpen has been almost long forgotten by the media and most fans in the Dolphins QB controversy between Henne and Pennington. Maybe he should've been the first in line to take over instead of Pennington.Thigpen is a lot better than you may think. Yes, his season record isabominable, but the Chiefs in 2008 were a terrible team. You'll see that his stats aren't indicative of a quarterback that went 1-10 that season.Thigpen can do some exciting things on the football fieldThigpen completed 54.8 percent of his passes that season, and threw for 2,608 yards, 18 touchdowns and only 12 interceptions in 11 games.That's not even counting Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
what he did on the ground, which is necessary for the Dolphins with their banged up offensive line. There Thigpen ran 62 times (not all of those designed) for 386 yards and three touchdowns.He also had a touchdown reception that went for 37 yards. The only downside to him running is he did have six fumbles, which is still only one more than Ricky Williams that year.Yesterday we saw this offense open up as the game went on, and started to work really well once Thigpen was inserted. Is this offense more tailor-made for a Tyler Thigpen than a Chad Henne?It probably is. Because of that, with Thigpen as starter, I see Dan Henning opening up this offense and including a few plays that will maximize Thigpen's talents.Thigpen has his chance to earn a starting job in the NFL. If the Dolphins finish the season on a 6-2 clip (they already have one win), odds are Thigpen will have the starting job next season.But the time is now, and he has to show that the job should be his.Special thanks to profootballreference.com for the stats. Follow Thomas Galicia on twitter, thomasgalicia.
2010年12月17日星期五
17 Dec 10 Chicago Bears Get Their 700th Win: A Look Back at the Start of It All
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesIt was great to see the Bears win their 700th game and continue to cement themselves as the winnings franchise in the history of the NFL. The Bears have certainly earned each win, playing some tough games over their 91-year history. They have faced a lot adversity over their long and storied history and it’s nice to see Chicago get some recognition for a nice win.But this isn’t about the Bear’s 700th victory. This is about the origins of the Bears and their first few years as part of Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
the budding upstart National Football League. Perhaps a look back at some Bear’s history will help everyone appreciate the Bear’s 700th win even more.The Bears were originally known as the Decatur Staleys when they were created back in 1920. The team was founded by George Halas and Dutch Sternman who was one of the first players on the team. Some of the other guys that were the first players for the Chicago Bears include Guy Chamberlain and Hugh Blacklock. Halas and his team played some games locally for a while and then came the big decision to create that National Football League. The decision to create the NFL came where the league’s hall of fame sits, Canton, Ohio and it was a decision that would bring us football as we know it today. The Bears were still the Decatur Staleys however and their first season was a pretty good one. They won ten out of 13 games that season, their first official season in the NFL.With financial trouble causing problems for the team’s owner and namesake (A.E. Staley), he offered Halas the chance to move the team to the city of Chicago. One key thing to remember here is that Staley asked Halas to keep the name for one more season and then he was allowed to change it.In their second year of the league’s existence, the Staleys ended their season by winning nine out of 11 games (they had one tie in there) and became champions of that league. The ownership decided to change the name of Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
the team to the Bears in 1922. The name, of course, stuck and still lives today.The young league strived to survive and had to try to do something to bring people in to watch their games and pay the money to watch them (and of course keep the league alive). The league owners had to do something in order to draw larger crowds to their games and increase revenue because if they couldn’t then the young league might go bankrupt and disappear.One of their solutions to this problem was to bring in famous players from the college ranks to help bring notable names to the sport and draw crowds. Some of those notable players included Harold Grange, better known as the famous Red Grange. With that, the Bears would then embark on a series of games played across the United States, playing teams that would be drawn from local talent. The venture was sure to bring the kind of notoriety that they new league was looking for and could quite possibly bring football more into the national spotlight.The Bears went on the tour and it can be considered a bit success. They played in front of thousands of fans and these fans took an interest in the kind of football that they were playing. The tour helped drum up a new fan base which the new league could draw off of to continue having success. It was a big move for the future of the league.The early years of the Bears, just like any other NFL team were wrought with financial struggles, infighting between owners and problems with players. Knowing what we know today, it is amazing that the Bears and the fledgling National Football League were able to get off their feet and get started. With so much adversity facing start up organizations today, imagine how hard it must have been for Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
the Bears and their counterparts back in the 1920s. We should be lucky that the Bears were able to make it through their issues and give us the football team (with it’s storied past) that we have today.Stay tuned for additional articles on interesting parts of Chicago Bears history through the rest of the season.
the budding upstart National Football League. Perhaps a look back at some Bear’s history will help everyone appreciate the Bear’s 700th win even more.The Bears were originally known as the Decatur Staleys when they were created back in 1920. The team was founded by George Halas and Dutch Sternman who was one of the first players on the team. Some of the other guys that were the first players for the Chicago Bears include Guy Chamberlain and Hugh Blacklock. Halas and his team played some games locally for a while and then came the big decision to create that National Football League. The decision to create the NFL came where the league’s hall of fame sits, Canton, Ohio and it was a decision that would bring us football as we know it today. The Bears were still the Decatur Staleys however and their first season was a pretty good one. They won ten out of 13 games that season, their first official season in the NFL.With financial trouble causing problems for the team’s owner and namesake (A.E. Staley), he offered Halas the chance to move the team to the city of Chicago. One key thing to remember here is that Staley asked Halas to keep the name for one more season and then he was allowed to change it.In their second year of the league’s existence, the Staleys ended their season by winning nine out of 11 games (they had one tie in there) and became champions of that league. The ownership decided to change the name of Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
the team to the Bears in 1922. The name, of course, stuck and still lives today.The young league strived to survive and had to try to do something to bring people in to watch their games and pay the money to watch them (and of course keep the league alive). The league owners had to do something in order to draw larger crowds to their games and increase revenue because if they couldn’t then the young league might go bankrupt and disappear.One of their solutions to this problem was to bring in famous players from the college ranks to help bring notable names to the sport and draw crowds. Some of those notable players included Harold Grange, better known as the famous Red Grange. With that, the Bears would then embark on a series of games played across the United States, playing teams that would be drawn from local talent. The venture was sure to bring the kind of notoriety that they new league was looking for and could quite possibly bring football more into the national spotlight.The Bears went on the tour and it can be considered a bit success. They played in front of thousands of fans and these fans took an interest in the kind of football that they were playing. The tour helped drum up a new fan base which the new league could draw off of to continue having success. It was a big move for the future of the league.The early years of the Bears, just like any other NFL team were wrought with financial struggles, infighting between owners and problems with players. Knowing what we know today, it is amazing that the Bears and the fledgling National Football League were able to get off their feet and get started. With so much adversity facing start up organizations today, imagine how hard it must have been for Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
the Bears and their counterparts back in the 1920s. We should be lucky that the Bears were able to make it through their issues and give us the football team (with it’s storied past) that we have today.Stay tuned for additional articles on interesting parts of Chicago Bears history through the rest of the season.
2010年12月16日星期四
16 Dec 10 NFL Fantasy Football TE Rankings: Brandon Pettigrew Headlines Week 12
Here’s my Week 12 tight end rankings. 1. Brandon Pettigrew vs. New England (Thursday)2. Jacob Tamme vs. San Diego3. Todd Heap vs. Tampa Bay4. Chris Cooley vs. Minnesota5. Kellen Winslow Baltimore6. Tony Gonzalez vs. Green Bay7. Vernon Davis Arizona (Monday)8. Zach Miller Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
(OAK) vs. Miami9. Marcedes Lewis New York Giants10. Jason Witten vs. New Orleans (Thursday)11. Visanthe Shiancoe Washington12. Jermaine Gresham New York Jets (Thursday)13. Kevin Boss vs. Jacksonville14. Jimmy Graham Dallas (Thursday)15. Aaron Hernandez Detroit (Thursday)16. Joel Dreessen vs. Tennessee17. Rob Gronkowski Detroit (Thursday)18. Greg Olsen vs. Philadelphia19. Randy McMichael Indianapolis20. Brent Celek Chicago Inside the numbers: The Lions will be forced to throw a lot against New England, which works in their favor as the Patriots struggle to defend the pass. I’m expecting big things from Brandon Pettigrew this week. Jacob Tamme shrugged off the back injury and caught seven catches for 70 yards. Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
He’s a strong play yet again this week. Todd Heap is averaging 51.4 yards with four touchdowns in his past five games. I can’t trust Antonio Gates until he shows signs that he’ll be ready to go. Jason Witten was more involved this week, but isn’t the focus of the offense the way he was in Weeks 7 and 8. The Jets aggressive style lends itself to strong TE play. Look for Gresham to have a decent game. With their WRs banged up, Kevin Boss figures to step up for the Giants. I’m expecting Owen Daniels to be out again, meaning Joel Dreessen has fantasy relevance again. Tony Moeaki (concussion) is out again this week. I added Jimmy Graham, and bumped him up a spell as Jeremy Shockey could miss this week as well. Also check out: Sneaky Week 12 Fantasy Football Pick-ups Week 12 Get ‘em or Don’t Sweat ‘em Waiver Wire Advice Week 12 Fantasy QB Rankings Week 12 Fantasy RB Rankings Week 12 Fantasy WR Rankings Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
Week 12 Fantasy K Rankings Week 12 Fantasy DEF Rankings Week 12 Fantasy IDP Rankings Week 12 Start/Sit Advice
Week 12 Fantasy Sleepers
(OAK) vs. Miami9. Marcedes Lewis New York Giants10. Jason Witten vs. New Orleans (Thursday)11. Visanthe Shiancoe Washington12. Jermaine Gresham New York Jets (Thursday)13. Kevin Boss vs. Jacksonville14. Jimmy Graham Dallas (Thursday)15. Aaron Hernandez Detroit (Thursday)16. Joel Dreessen vs. Tennessee17. Rob Gronkowski Detroit (Thursday)18. Greg Olsen vs. Philadelphia19. Randy McMichael Indianapolis20. Brent Celek Chicago Inside the numbers: The Lions will be forced to throw a lot against New England, which works in their favor as the Patriots struggle to defend the pass. I’m expecting big things from Brandon Pettigrew this week. Jacob Tamme shrugged off the back injury and caught seven catches for 70 yards. Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
He’s a strong play yet again this week. Todd Heap is averaging 51.4 yards with four touchdowns in his past five games. I can’t trust Antonio Gates until he shows signs that he’ll be ready to go. Jason Witten was more involved this week, but isn’t the focus of the offense the way he was in Weeks 7 and 8. The Jets aggressive style lends itself to strong TE play. Look for Gresham to have a decent game. With their WRs banged up, Kevin Boss figures to step up for the Giants. I’m expecting Owen Daniels to be out again, meaning Joel Dreessen has fantasy relevance again. Tony Moeaki (concussion) is out again this week. I added Jimmy Graham, and bumped him up a spell as Jeremy Shockey could miss this week as well. Also check out: Sneaky Week 12 Fantasy Football Pick-ups Week 12 Get ‘em or Don’t Sweat ‘em Waiver Wire Advice Week 12 Fantasy QB Rankings Week 12 Fantasy RB Rankings Week 12 Fantasy WR Rankings Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
Week 12 Fantasy K Rankings Week 12 Fantasy DEF Rankings Week 12 Fantasy IDP Rankings Week 12 Start/Sit Advice
Week 12 Fantasy Sleepers
2010年12月15日星期三
Monday Night Fantasy Matchup: San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals
Week 12 Monday Night Matchup: San Francisco 49ers(3-7) Arizona Cardinals(3-7)
Click here for the other games
Rankings based on top 16 QBs, 32 RBs, 48 WRs, and 16 TEs
(brought to you by pyromaniac.com)
San Francisco 49ers Steelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
(49ers Schedule)
Opponent Defensive Ranks
Arizona Pass Defense—2010: Yards Allowed/Game 27th—TDs Allowed T-17th
Arizona Rush Defense—2010: Yards Allowed/Game 28th—TDs Allowed T-30th
San Francisco Offensive Cast
Troy Smith (QB Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 45-of-78 for 700 yards & 2 TDs
Troy will get one more shot at this thing.
Though I think he’ll have a decent game, I can’t very well advocate starting him on your fantasy team. Too much risk for failure.
Alex Smith (QB Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 143-of-242 for 1,554 yards & 9 TDs
Troy Smith will get the call once again.
So keep Alex stashed on your bench for another week.
Frank Gore (RB Week 12 Ranking: No. 6)
2010 Season: 198 carries for 801 yards & 3 TDs, 46 receptions for 452 yards & 2 TDs
Gore should be able to tear this defense apart on Monday night.
In his two games against Arizona last year, Gore averaged 98.5 yards and 1.5 TDs.Look for him to come awfully close to those exact numbers tonight.
Michael Crabtree (WR Week 12 Ranking: No.31)
2010 Season: 36 receptions for 461 yards & 4 TDs
Crabtree was silent last week, but this Cardinals' pass D isn’t too tough to beat.
I can see him grabbing at least four passes. If he and Troy start rolling, he might hit 100 yards in this one.
Josh Morgan (WR Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 26 receptions for 384 yards & 1 TD
Josh has a ton of talent, but he Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
rarely puts it on display out on the field.
Vernon Davis (TE Week 12 Ranking: No. 4)
2010 Season: 38 receptions for 516 yards & 4 TDs
Vernon is back and will look to avenge his one-catch, three-yard outing of last weekend.
The Cards give up a TD every other game to opposing tight ends. So bet on this being the one where it happens.
Arizona Cardinals (Cardinals Schedule)
Opponent Defensive Ranks
San Francisco Pass Defense—2010: Yards Allowed/Game 17th—TDs Allowed T-13th
San Francisco Rush Defense—2010: Yards Allowed/Game 15th—TDs Allowed T-8th
Arizona Offensive Cast
Derek Anderson (QB Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 146-of-272 for 1,776 yards & 7 TDs
DA had another decent fantasy week against the Chiefs last weekend.
But his ability to implode is just as high as his ability to throw up a decent game. Basically, if you’re a man who likes to go against the odds, feel free to take a chance.
Beanie Wells (RB Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 78 carries for 270 yards & 2 TDs, 3 receptions for 25 yards & 0 TDs
Even if Wells was getting the majority of carries, I’d have a tough time telling you to start him against a relatively-stout rush D like San Francisco has.
Tim Hightower (RB Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 91 carries for 438 yards & 3 TDs, 14 receptions for 111 yards & 0 TDs
Hightower is still getting the majority of the touches, but don’t bother using him against a defense like the 49ers throw out there.
Larry Fitzgerald (WR Week 12 Ranking: No. 10)
2010 Season: 55 receptions for 691 yards & 5 TDs
Fitz will have a chance to go over 100 yards and snag a TD against this mediocre 49ers pass D.
If Anderson keeps on throwing him the ball as much as he has been, Larry should have himself quite a game.
Steve Breaston (WR Week 12 Ranking: No. 44)
2010 Season: 34 receptions for 548 yards & 1 TD
I’ll say it again:Anyone playing alongside Larry Fitzgerald should be able to put up some decent numbers.
Breaston seems to be doing just that lately.He’s gone over 90 yards the last two games, though the TDs haven’t been there.
He’s not a bad WR3 call this week.
Early Doucet (WR Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 17 receptions 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
for 196 yards & 1 TD
Doucet is just too inconsistent to even think about playing.
Don’t bother now or for the rest of the season.
Ben Patrick (TE Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 15 receptions for 123 yards & 0 TDs
Patrick caught three passes last week!
It’s party time!!!
Click here for the other games
Rankings based on top 16 QBs, 32 RBs, 48 WRs, and 16 TEs
(brought to you by pyromaniac.com)
San Francisco 49ers Steelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
(49ers Schedule)
Opponent Defensive Ranks
Arizona Pass Defense—2010: Yards Allowed/Game 27th—TDs Allowed T-17th
Arizona Rush Defense—2010: Yards Allowed/Game 28th—TDs Allowed T-30th
San Francisco Offensive Cast
Troy Smith (QB Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 45-of-78 for 700 yards & 2 TDs
Troy will get one more shot at this thing.
Though I think he’ll have a decent game, I can’t very well advocate starting him on your fantasy team. Too much risk for failure.
Alex Smith (QB Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 143-of-242 for 1,554 yards & 9 TDs
Troy Smith will get the call once again.
So keep Alex stashed on your bench for another week.
Frank Gore (RB Week 12 Ranking: No. 6)
2010 Season: 198 carries for 801 yards & 3 TDs, 46 receptions for 452 yards & 2 TDs
Gore should be able to tear this defense apart on Monday night.
In his two games against Arizona last year, Gore averaged 98.5 yards and 1.5 TDs.Look for him to come awfully close to those exact numbers tonight.
Michael Crabtree (WR Week 12 Ranking: No.31)
2010 Season: 36 receptions for 461 yards & 4 TDs
Crabtree was silent last week, but this Cardinals' pass D isn’t too tough to beat.
I can see him grabbing at least four passes. If he and Troy start rolling, he might hit 100 yards in this one.
Josh Morgan (WR Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 26 receptions for 384 yards & 1 TD
Josh has a ton of talent, but he Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
rarely puts it on display out on the field.
Vernon Davis (TE Week 12 Ranking: No. 4)
2010 Season: 38 receptions for 516 yards & 4 TDs
Vernon is back and will look to avenge his one-catch, three-yard outing of last weekend.
The Cards give up a TD every other game to opposing tight ends. So bet on this being the one where it happens.
Arizona Cardinals (Cardinals Schedule)
Opponent Defensive Ranks
San Francisco Pass Defense—2010: Yards Allowed/Game 17th—TDs Allowed T-13th
San Francisco Rush Defense—2010: Yards Allowed/Game 15th—TDs Allowed T-8th
Arizona Offensive Cast
Derek Anderson (QB Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 146-of-272 for 1,776 yards & 7 TDs
DA had another decent fantasy week against the Chiefs last weekend.
But his ability to implode is just as high as his ability to throw up a decent game. Basically, if you’re a man who likes to go against the odds, feel free to take a chance.
Beanie Wells (RB Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 78 carries for 270 yards & 2 TDs, 3 receptions for 25 yards & 0 TDs
Even if Wells was getting the majority of carries, I’d have a tough time telling you to start him against a relatively-stout rush D like San Francisco has.
Tim Hightower (RB Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 91 carries for 438 yards & 3 TDs, 14 receptions for 111 yards & 0 TDs
Hightower is still getting the majority of the touches, but don’t bother using him against a defense like the 49ers throw out there.
Larry Fitzgerald (WR Week 12 Ranking: No. 10)
2010 Season: 55 receptions for 691 yards & 5 TDs
Fitz will have a chance to go over 100 yards and snag a TD against this mediocre 49ers pass D.
If Anderson keeps on throwing him the ball as much as he has been, Larry should have himself quite a game.
Steve Breaston (WR Week 12 Ranking: No. 44)
2010 Season: 34 receptions for 548 yards & 1 TD
I’ll say it again:Anyone playing alongside Larry Fitzgerald should be able to put up some decent numbers.
Breaston seems to be doing just that lately.He’s gone over 90 yards the last two games, though the TDs haven’t been there.
He’s not a bad WR3 call this week.
Early Doucet (WR Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 17 receptions 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
for 196 yards & 1 TD
Doucet is just too inconsistent to even think about playing.
Don’t bother now or for the rest of the season.
Ben Patrick (TE Week 12 Ranking: Not ranked)
2010 Season: 15 receptions for 123 yards & 0 TDs
Patrick caught three passes last week!
It’s party time!!!
2010年12月13日星期一
Michael Vick, Tom Brady, Randy Moss and Friday's Top NFL News
Al Bello/Getty ImagesMichael Vick, Tom Brady and Randy Moss are stealing the NFL headlines on this wonderful Friday morning.As if we should be surprised.These guys are three of the most polarizing figures in the league, and where they go, news follows.But there's a ton of other news going on in the NFL, as we are nearing crunch time in the regular season.The playoff picture is gradually beginning to take shape week-in and week-out, so every game will be crucial if teams want to keep their spot at the top of the conference or make a late playoff run.Well, I'm here to keep you updated on the latest news, rumors and injury updates around the league.If you're looking for a place to discuss the biggest stories in the NFL, you're in the right place.There's no need to Indianapolis Colts jersey
fresh this page. It will update every few minutes for your viewing pleasure.So sit back, relax and enjoy Friday's Top NFL News. 11:04 AM ETClinton Portis: Washington Redskins RB Still Has Gas Left in the TankClinton Portis is nearing the NFL's "age limit" for running backs.He'll turn 30 years old in 2011, and he has even gone on record in saying that he almost retired two years ago.And it hasn't been all that great since then.Portis has suffered two s...Read more » 10:54 AM ETNFL Week 13 Picks: Ravens or Steelers, Jets or Patriots, Who Wins the Big Games?NFL picks Week 13 are here, and it's a pivotal week of NFL action.There are tons of big games on Sunday, and of course there's a huge Monday Night Football showdown as well.Now, I hate to brag, but I hit the nail on the head with my first predicti...Read more » 10:45 AM ETAndre Johnson: Houston Texans Wide Receiver Looks to Be OKAndre Johnson wasn't on the field for the entire game on Thursday night.The Houston Texans wide receiver briefly left the team's loss to the Philadelphia Eagles so he could receive a painkilling injection in his injured ankle.The injury has bother...Read more » 10:36 AM ETAdrian Peterson: Minnesota Vikings RB Hoping to Be on Field on SundayAdrian Peterson was knocked out out of the Minnesota Vikings' game against the Washington Redskins last week, paving the way for Toby Gerhart to see the most action of his young NFL career.But if Peterson has anything to say about it, that won't h...Read more » 10:22 AM ETNFL Power Rankings: Who is the League's Top Team Heading into Week 13:NFL power rankings are a fun topic of debate between football fans.The arguments center around logic cheap nfl jerseys
and reasoning for the most part, but of course it isn't out of the ordinary for someone to put their favorite team at the top.Well, in some cases ...Read more » 10:14 AM ETColt McCoy: Will Cleveland Browns Rookie QB Be Back on Sunday?Colt McCoy has had a surprisingly good rookie season so far.Though many doubted how his game (and size) would transitional to the NFL level, McCoy has performed very well in limited action for a Cleveland Browns team that no one expected to be any...Read more » 10:05 AM ETBen Roethlisberger: Pittsburgh Steelers Deny Report About His Injury StatusBen Roethlisberger is definitely injured. We just don't know what the injury is.The Pittsburgh-Post Gazette reported Thursday that Roethlisberger's foot is broken rather than sprained like the Pittsburgh Steelers have reported.The newspaper said t...Read more » 09:54 AM ETRandy Moss: Superstar Wide Receiver Frustrated In TennesseeRandy Moss has been essentially nonexistent since being claimed by the Tennessee Titans on the waiver wire, and as you can imagine, he's frustrated.But believe it or not, Moss says it isn't his inability to get involved in the offense--he has just...Read more » 09:45 AM ETMichael Vick: Thursday Night Football Performance Moves Him Closer to MVPMichael Vick was getting destroyed all night long.He was sacked, hurried, tackled, and even lit up. But that didn't stop the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback from making plays.Vick led the Eagles to a 34-24 victory over the Houston Texans on NFL Ne...Read more » 09:36 AM ETTom Brady: Patriots Quarterback Practices Thursday, Should Play MondayTom Brady wasn't on the practice Minnesota Vikings jersey
field Tuesday, but New England Patriots fans need not worry.The quarterback was held out of practice more for precautionary reasons than for anything else.Brady has consistently been listed on New England's injury ...Read more »
fresh this page. It will update every few minutes for your viewing pleasure.So sit back, relax and enjoy Friday's Top NFL News. 11:04 AM ETClinton Portis: Washington Redskins RB Still Has Gas Left in the TankClinton Portis is nearing the NFL's "age limit" for running backs.He'll turn 30 years old in 2011, and he has even gone on record in saying that he almost retired two years ago.And it hasn't been all that great since then.Portis has suffered two s...Read more » 10:54 AM ETNFL Week 13 Picks: Ravens or Steelers, Jets or Patriots, Who Wins the Big Games?NFL picks Week 13 are here, and it's a pivotal week of NFL action.There are tons of big games on Sunday, and of course there's a huge Monday Night Football showdown as well.Now, I hate to brag, but I hit the nail on the head with my first predicti...Read more » 10:45 AM ETAndre Johnson: Houston Texans Wide Receiver Looks to Be OKAndre Johnson wasn't on the field for the entire game on Thursday night.The Houston Texans wide receiver briefly left the team's loss to the Philadelphia Eagles so he could receive a painkilling injection in his injured ankle.The injury has bother...Read more » 10:36 AM ETAdrian Peterson: Minnesota Vikings RB Hoping to Be on Field on SundayAdrian Peterson was knocked out out of the Minnesota Vikings' game against the Washington Redskins last week, paving the way for Toby Gerhart to see the most action of his young NFL career.But if Peterson has anything to say about it, that won't h...Read more » 10:22 AM ETNFL Power Rankings: Who is the League's Top Team Heading into Week 13:NFL power rankings are a fun topic of debate between football fans.The arguments center around logic cheap nfl jerseys
and reasoning for the most part, but of course it isn't out of the ordinary for someone to put their favorite team at the top.Well, in some cases ...Read more » 10:14 AM ETColt McCoy: Will Cleveland Browns Rookie QB Be Back on Sunday?Colt McCoy has had a surprisingly good rookie season so far.Though many doubted how his game (and size) would transitional to the NFL level, McCoy has performed very well in limited action for a Cleveland Browns team that no one expected to be any...Read more » 10:05 AM ETBen Roethlisberger: Pittsburgh Steelers Deny Report About His Injury StatusBen Roethlisberger is definitely injured. We just don't know what the injury is.The Pittsburgh-Post Gazette reported Thursday that Roethlisberger's foot is broken rather than sprained like the Pittsburgh Steelers have reported.The newspaper said t...Read more » 09:54 AM ETRandy Moss: Superstar Wide Receiver Frustrated In TennesseeRandy Moss has been essentially nonexistent since being claimed by the Tennessee Titans on the waiver wire, and as you can imagine, he's frustrated.But believe it or not, Moss says it isn't his inability to get involved in the offense--he has just...Read more » 09:45 AM ETMichael Vick: Thursday Night Football Performance Moves Him Closer to MVPMichael Vick was getting destroyed all night long.He was sacked, hurried, tackled, and even lit up. But that didn't stop the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback from making plays.Vick led the Eagles to a 34-24 victory over the Houston Texans on NFL Ne...Read more » 09:36 AM ETTom Brady: Patriots Quarterback Practices Thursday, Should Play MondayTom Brady wasn't on the practice Minnesota Vikings jersey
field Tuesday, but New England Patriots fans need not worry.The quarterback was held out of practice more for precautionary reasons than for anything else.Brady has consistently been listed on New England's injury ...Read more »
2010年12月12日星期日
Washington's “star” DT a Stark Example of Unaccountability in Sports
Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesIn a move that came as surprise to little to no people following the beleaguered Defensive Tackle, Albert Haynesworth has been suspended for 4 games by the Washington Redskins, thusending his season. And there honestly couldn’t be a more fitting end to a year in which trouble started before even a single preseason snap. The same season that began with Haynesworth signing a massive 7 year, 100 million dollar contract to anchor the middle of the ‘Skins defensive line. Well, as Dan Snyder is football jerseys
now finding out, when you sign players like Albert Haynesworth to 100 million contracts you get what you pay for. But this isn’t even a first for Snyder. He hasn’t ever had a problem signing troubled players (DeAngelo hall anyone?), as long as they’re talented. And you do have to give him credit for looking to better his team, but handing players like Haynesworth million dollar contracts and not expecting repercussions is irresponsible. You couldn’t see that maybe Haynesworth had some questionable character issues when he treated Andre Guorode’s head like a bucket of grapes at a medieval fair? But then again, that is the difference between owners like Dan Snyder and others like, say, Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick. A duo such as the aforementioned has 3 Super Bowls this decade for a reason. They don’t put up with players like Albert Haynesworth. They take the approach of “If you can’t conform to our system, we don’t need you. You’re not bigger than the team”. This fact was extremely obvious when they brought in Corey Dillon, Rodney Harrison and Randy Moss, and these players had largely successful careers in Foxboro. Moss conformed for a majority of his time in New England, and when he couldn’t he was gone. Where is that kind of attitude towards Albert Haynesworth, when has there even been? However what is the most troubling about the Haynesworth situation is that it is only a microcosm of a much larger problem we have in sports today. Where is the accountability among players in today’s game? When you constantly make excuses for players like Haynesworth by saying things like “Everyone makes mistakes and deserves a second chance” and “The moment got the best of them”, I guess you can see why this level of accountability has gone south. What ever happened to shut up and play football? Haynesworth Cowboys jersey
has had more primadonna outbursts this year than he has had sacks (for those counting it’s at least 3 to 2.5, outbursts and belly flops holding strong). And the news of Haynesworth’s suspension is making public noise, enough so to be a lead topic on the ever gripping T.Ocho Show. And, I’m sure, to nobody’s surprise, Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco were firmly on Haynesworth’s side. As a continuation of the unaccountability that is running rampant, the dynamic Wide Receiver duo laid the blame on coach Mike Shanahan, citing that he has “too much control in Washington”. That’s right, too much control. Win McNamee/Getty Images Imagine a head coach having too much control over a team. Imagine a head coach demanding that his 100 million dollar superstar be in good enough shape to pass a fitness test before reporting to camp. Wow, what blasphemy. And I suppose this shouldn’t come as a surprise from two players who are the antithesis of team, the two players who are the poster children for “Ima do me” and “Get mine”. But honestly the situation is more sad than anything because Haynesworth is so talented. He has the ability to dominate annfl throwback jerseys
offensive lineman at will, but he chooses to let the negatives always outweigh the positives. So well we don’t know where Haynesworth will play football in 2011, one thing’s for sure; we won’t see him in a Washington Redskin uniform again any time soon.
now finding out, when you sign players like Albert Haynesworth to 100 million contracts you get what you pay for. But this isn’t even a first for Snyder. He hasn’t ever had a problem signing troubled players (DeAngelo hall anyone?), as long as they’re talented. And you do have to give him credit for looking to better his team, but handing players like Haynesworth million dollar contracts and not expecting repercussions is irresponsible. You couldn’t see that maybe Haynesworth had some questionable character issues when he treated Andre Guorode’s head like a bucket of grapes at a medieval fair? But then again, that is the difference between owners like Dan Snyder and others like, say, Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick. A duo such as the aforementioned has 3 Super Bowls this decade for a reason. They don’t put up with players like Albert Haynesworth. They take the approach of “If you can’t conform to our system, we don’t need you. You’re not bigger than the team”. This fact was extremely obvious when they brought in Corey Dillon, Rodney Harrison and Randy Moss, and these players had largely successful careers in Foxboro. Moss conformed for a majority of his time in New England, and when he couldn’t he was gone. Where is that kind of attitude towards Albert Haynesworth, when has there even been? However what is the most troubling about the Haynesworth situation is that it is only a microcosm of a much larger problem we have in sports today. Where is the accountability among players in today’s game? When you constantly make excuses for players like Haynesworth by saying things like “Everyone makes mistakes and deserves a second chance” and “The moment got the best of them”, I guess you can see why this level of accountability has gone south. What ever happened to shut up and play football? Haynesworth Cowboys jersey
has had more primadonna outbursts this year than he has had sacks (for those counting it’s at least 3 to 2.5, outbursts and belly flops holding strong). And the news of Haynesworth’s suspension is making public noise, enough so to be a lead topic on the ever gripping T.Ocho Show. And, I’m sure, to nobody’s surprise, Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco were firmly on Haynesworth’s side. As a continuation of the unaccountability that is running rampant, the dynamic Wide Receiver duo laid the blame on coach Mike Shanahan, citing that he has “too much control in Washington”. That’s right, too much control. Win McNamee/Getty Images Imagine a head coach having too much control over a team. Imagine a head coach demanding that his 100 million dollar superstar be in good enough shape to pass a fitness test before reporting to camp. Wow, what blasphemy. And I suppose this shouldn’t come as a surprise from two players who are the antithesis of team, the two players who are the poster children for “Ima do me” and “Get mine”. But honestly the situation is more sad than anything because Haynesworth is so talented. He has the ability to dominate annfl throwback jerseys
offensive lineman at will, but he chooses to let the negatives always outweigh the positives. So well we don’t know where Haynesworth will play football in 2011, one thing’s for sure; we won’t see him in a Washington Redskin uniform again any time soon.
2010年12月11日星期六
Pittsburgh Steelers "Five draft possibilities at DE"
Yes, the Pittsburgh Steelers have re-signed defensive end Nick Eason to a two-year deal. Further, the team chose to bring end Travis Kirschke back into the fold in February. That probably means they won’t be taking a DE in the first round of this month’s 2008 NFL Draft.But if you saw how the team played after Aaron Smith went down with an injury last season, then you know the Steelers are almost certainly going to draft an end at some point.Going along with that logic, here are five DEs whom the Steelers just might have 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
the ability to get their hands on in the first four rounds of the draft.Calais Campbell (Miami): At 6-foot-8, 290 pounds, Campbell has many teams interested. As a junior for the Hurricanes, Campbell netted 84 tackles, 20.5 tackles for a loss, and 10.5 sacks. However, he was less impressive as a senior and his workouts have left something to be desired (Campbell needs to get stronger).Taking him in the first round would be a chance that the team almost certainly isn’t willing to take. But if he dropped to the Steelers in the second, it might be go time.Lawrence Jackson (USC): Jackson, 6-4, 271, has the size to be effective. However, it’s his speed (4.82 in the 40) and strength (31 repetitions on the bench with 225 pounds) that set him apart. Jackson also managed 17 tackles and 10.5 sacks last season, so he’s been productive on a big-time team.Jackson may still be on the board when the Steelers draft in the second round. At that juncture, he would be a steal. Some mock drafts have even seen him slip to the third round.Jason Jones (Eastern Michigan): At 6-5, 273 and with 4.76 speed, you’ve got to like the measurables Jones has. He put up 70 tackles, including 19.5 behind the line of scrimmage to co-lead the nation last season. Guess is, though, that if the Steelers don’t take him by the third, Jones will be gone. Jones is one of those very well-known sleepers who always go off the board somewhat early. Kendall Langford (Hampton): The 6-6, 287-pounder runs the 40-yard dash in 4.95 seconds. He played well in the East-West game and accrued 72 tackles last season at Hampton, so scouts have begun to take notice of him despite the lack of elite college competition.Langford is being touted as someone who may go in the third round. If the Steelers saw him fall to them there or in the fourth, they’d have to take note. Phillip Merling (Clemson): Yes, Merling is coming off hernia surgery, but the fact is that he’s 6-4, 276 and runs the 40 in 4.73 36 Bettis White Jersey
seconds. What’s more, he accumulated 78 tackles, seven sacks, and 17 stops for a loss this past season. Merling also registered 11 third-down stops, including eight against the run in 2007.In the end, he’s going to be excellent against both the run and the pass. However, if the Steelers want him, they’re going to have to take him in the first round, something that their recent activity doesn’t indicate they’re probably going to do. Heck, it’s even possible that Merling will be gone by the time they pick.
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