Another MLB All-Star Game, another mistake by the fans.
This time, it is Derek Jeter being voted to start despite his .260 batting average, 2 home runs, and 19 games missed due to injury.
It is no secret as to why Derek Jeter was voted to start by the fans. After all, the New York Yankees are the most famous team in baseball, and Jeter remains an icon for the game despite his lack of productivity.
But if the fans can vote in a shortstop whose own team seems to play better without him, then the fans should not have that power.
This isn't about Jeter. This is about Asdrubal Cabrera. The Indians shortstop is having a breakout year, hitting .291 with 14 home runs and 49 RBIs. He needs one more home run to surpass his total for the last three years combined.
Yet, what if this isn't a breakout year, but an aberration? What if Cabrera's career is plagued by injuries? What if a shortstop prospect gets called up in September, thrives, and is the best shortstop in the AL for years to come?
Then Asdrubal Cabrera will have been cheated out of his only opportunity to start an All-Star Game. All because he isn't a household name and doesn't play for the Yankees or Red Sox.
The only argument I've heard that rationalizes Jeter's starting nod was that he has earned it with his play in the past. Some say that his past deeds have earned him this spot until he retires.
That just should not be. Jeter has had his time, and no one else should be penalized so that he can continue to play when he has not earned it. If the numbers were close to even, maybe the nod goes to the veteran shortstop as a tiebreak. But to allow Jeter to start when he has not earned it? He has played in 12 All-Star Games, and earned every one; now his all-star count will always be tainted with this unworthy selection.
There is also the fact that this game decides who gets home-field advantage in the World Series. So, to allow an unworthy player to play may give the other team an advantage. As the Yankees are attempting to reach the World Series, chances are even they do not want to see Jeter play in this game.
If the MLB were to come to its senses and abolish the fan voting, then how would the voting be done? Right now, some reserves are selected by the players and some are the manager's picks. To me, it seems that not all players are aware of who is having a great year in their league. Most of the time, the players' picks are more questionable than the manager's picks. However, giving one manager that much power is also a bad idea. Most managers look after their own guys, and individual managers would probably pick their own players in any close selection.
The best choice seems to be to allow all of the league's managers to select the teams. Most managers know enough about their own league to make prudent selections. The AL managers certainly wouldn't have allowed the Jeter debacle to happen.
Hopefully, the rule for fan voting is changed. If Bud Selig can make the right choice, then we won't have any more Asdrubal Cabreras.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
The biggest fish in the pond
The best American singles tennis player just lost in the Wimbledon quarterfinals. No, not Andy Roddick. Roddick lost in the third round to Spaniard Feliciano Lopez, marking his second straight early exit at Wimbledon. No, not one of the Williams sisters. Their injuries and lack of consistency has been part of the reason that the women's game has not seen a dominant force in a few years. The best American is a player that most casual tennis fans don't know anything about. Yet, he is ranked 9th in a very deep men's pool, he has been improving his game constantly, he even just took Nadal to four sets at Wimbledon, and, right now, Mardy Fish is the only thing keeping American singles tennis at respectability.
Fish proved again that the tennis world needs to take notice with a dominant straight sets win over Tomas Berdych prior to his loss to Nadal. He has quietly shot up the world rankings, and passed Andy Roddick without many noticing. Yet, while Roddick's game is declining, Fish's is improving.
Aggression seems to be the key in Fish's surge. As his game has evolved, Fish has put more and more pressure on his opponents. Going into his match against Nadal, Fish had 73 aces and converted 120 out of his 172 points at the net in just 13 sets at Wimbledon. Earlier in his career, Fish was more content staying back and letting the game come to him. Always a talented volley player, Fish has recently been much better at picking his spots for a passing shot. He has also gone for the home run on his serve more, and it has payed off.
Fish's next step is getting a big win versus a big player. His loss to Nadal makes him 0-6 in his career against the world's #1 player. However, Fish has shown improvement against the world's elite on big stages recently. He did take a set against Nadal at Wimbledon, and was up a set before falling to Roger Federer 6-7, 7-6, 6-4 for the title in the Cincinnati Masters championship last year. If Fish can finally break through, he will make himself a household name amongst casual tennis fans.
Fish probably will never be the dominant force that Roddick was in his prime, and it will be extremely difficult for him to ever win a grand slam title. Still, with the decline of the country's elite, American tennis fans should be extremely thankful to have Mardy Fish.
Fish proved again that the tennis world needs to take notice with a dominant straight sets win over Tomas Berdych prior to his loss to Nadal. He has quietly shot up the world rankings, and passed Andy Roddick without many noticing. Yet, while Roddick's game is declining, Fish's is improving.
Aggression seems to be the key in Fish's surge. As his game has evolved, Fish has put more and more pressure on his opponents. Going into his match against Nadal, Fish had 73 aces and converted 120 out of his 172 points at the net in just 13 sets at Wimbledon. Earlier in his career, Fish was more content staying back and letting the game come to him. Always a talented volley player, Fish has recently been much better at picking his spots for a passing shot. He has also gone for the home run on his serve more, and it has payed off.
Fish's next step is getting a big win versus a big player. His loss to Nadal makes him 0-6 in his career against the world's #1 player. However, Fish has shown improvement against the world's elite on big stages recently. He did take a set against Nadal at Wimbledon, and was up a set before falling to Roger Federer 6-7, 7-6, 6-4 for the title in the Cincinnati Masters championship last year. If Fish can finally break through, he will make himself a household name amongst casual tennis fans.
Fish probably will never be the dominant force that Roddick was in his prime, and it will be extremely difficult for him to ever win a grand slam title. Still, with the decline of the country's elite, American tennis fans should be extremely thankful to have Mardy Fish.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Draft Analysis (Western Conference)
This is part two of my 2-day reaction to the NBA draft. Today, the west!
Golden State Warriors: Ended night with Klay Thompson, Charles Jenkins, rights to Jeremy Tyler Grade: B- Although a lot of people expected the Warriors to draft Klay Thompson, I wasn't a big fan of the pick. I think his offensive style is a lot like Steph Curry's, and the Warriors really need a lockdown defender like Chris Singleton. Still, the value the Warriors got in the second round (nice reserve guard in Jenkins, sleeper in Tyler) makes their draft a lot better.
Los Angeles Clippers: Ended night with Trey Thompkins and Travis Leslie Grade: F Okay, I'm cheating a little here by including activities that happened before the draft in my assessment. But why is everyone letting the Clippers off the hook for their terrible handling of the Baron Davis trade? I highly doubt that top 3 protecting the pick for 2011 and 2012 would have been a deal breaker for the Cavaliers. In those types of salary cap trades, pick protection is often a formality. And yet, the Clippers somehow gave the Cavaliers the chance at a #1 pick, which, of course, was going to happen. The disappointing thing is, Kyrie Irving would have been an excellent fit in Los Angeles. Playing alongside Blake Griffin and Eric Gordon, the Clippers finally would have had a complete nucleus to build around. Alas, it wasn't meant to be. On top of that, they drafted an out of shape player with their first pick in the second round. For shame.
Los Angeles Lakers: Ended night with Darius Morris, Andrew Goudelock, and Ater Majok Grade: C- It was disappointing that the Lakers couldn't move up in the draft after starting the night with 4 second round picks. They got average value in Morris and Goudelock, and a guy who might never see the floor in the NBA in Majok. All in all, not a very good day for the Lakers.
Phoenix Suns: Ended night with Markieff Morris Grade: C- With the likes of Kawhi Leonard still on the board, the Suns took the worse Morris twin. Did I mention that the better Morris twin was still on the board as well? Some people think Markieff is a better NBA prospect, but I disagree. And I disagree altogether with the Suns taking any Morris with their only pick at 13. Disappointing.
Sacramento Kings: Ended night with John Salmons, Tyler Honeycutt, Isaiah Thomas, and rights to Jimmer Fredette Grade: D- The Kings draft day strategy was puzzling to say the least. Apparently, they got so caught up in trying to trade Beno Udrih and trying to rationalize taking Jimmer as high as their pick was that they forgot why they traded John Salmons and his abysmal contract in the first place. Now, they took on Salmons contract and moved down in the draft to do it! Getting good value in the Honeycutt pick doesn't make it that much better. Unless Isaiah Thomas miraculously turns into the next, well, Isiah Thomas, the Kings draft day was a failure.
Dallas Mavericks: Ended night with Rudy Fernandez and Petteri Koponen: C The Mavericks took a flyer on Fernandez by dealing Jordan Hamilton to the Blazers. I thought they would have been better served by keeping the talented Hamilton, but Fernandez has the potential to be the kind of shooter Dallas needs to put around Dirk. And for the record, their second round pick was Targuy Ngombo, but I don't see many Ngombo jerseys being sold in the foreseeable future.
Houston Rockets: Ended night with Johnny Flynn, Marcus Morris, and rights to Donatas Motijunas Grade: C- Another team that passed on Chris Singleton that I thought could have benefited from him. Other than that, thought it was an average draft for Houston.
Memphis Grizzlies: Ended night with Josh Selby Grade: B The Grizzlies only had one second-rounder to work with, but got a steal in Selby. If Selby is the player that everyone thought he was coming out of high school, he could play the minutes OJ Mayo did if Mayo indeed does get traded. If not, it's just a mid-second round pick that was used.
New Orleans Hornets: Ended night with cash Grade: I The Hornets get an I for incomplete, as they sold their only pick, a second rounder, to the Knicks.
San Antonio Spurs: Ended night with rights Kawhi Leonard, Cory Joseph, and Adam Hanga Grade: B In a trade that will benefit both sides, the Spurs dealt George Hill to get the defensive-minded Leonard. Despite being the #1 seed in the West last year, the Spurs defense slipped a little bit, and Leonard will help them get their defensive mojo back. The Spurs seemed to reach for Joseph, but it is hard to question a team that has drafted as brilliantly as the Spurs have recently.
Denver Nuggets: Ended night with Andre Miller, Kenneth Faried and rights to Jordan Hamilton Grade: B+ The Nuggets had an excellent draft night. By dealing Raymond Felton, the Nuggets got a veteran point guard that can help groom Ty Lawson for the future and got the rights to a very talented rookie in Jordan Hamilton. They also drafted the rebounding machine Kenneth Faried, whose signature skill will definitely translate to the NBA.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Ended night with Derrick Williams, Brad Miller, and Malcolm Lee Grade: C The Timberwolves also added a few picks in future drafts. David Kahn's idea seemed to be to continue to move out of the first round because he did not want another guaranteed rookie contract besides Williams. Still, he may have been better suited keeping Mirotic then. Mirotic isn't coming overseas for a few years, and Kahn wouldn't have had to pay him until when he did. Williams is a great talent, but must play the 3 to fit for the Wolves. Still, Kahn didn't mess up TOO bad, so I guess Minnesota fans are relieved.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Ended night with Reggie Jackson Grade: C The Thunder took Reggie Jackson, a point guard out of Boston College that I thought was a tad overrated going into the draft. Still, with one late first-round pick, there is only so much you can do.
Portland Trail Blazers: Ended night with Nolan Smith, Jon Diebler, Raymond Felton, and rights to Targuy Ngombo Grade: C The Blazers got younger at point guard by getting Felton, which was a trade that made sense for them. But both of their draft picks seemed to be reachers; Smith at #21 is a huge stretch, particularly with Faried still on the board. Diebler just doesn't seem like an NBA player to me. Sure, he can shoot, but so can a ton of players, and he has to get open.
Utah Jazz: Ended night with Enes Kanter and Alec Burks Grade: B+ Kudos to the Jazz for not letting their infatuation with Brandon Knight let them pass on the best player available at 3, which was Kanter. Bigs of Kanter's calibur are tough to come by. And Utah made their draft even better by getting a great scorer in Burks at 12. A very nice day for a rebuilding team that may be closer than we all think.
Golden State Warriors: Ended night with Klay Thompson, Charles Jenkins, rights to Jeremy Tyler Grade: B- Although a lot of people expected the Warriors to draft Klay Thompson, I wasn't a big fan of the pick. I think his offensive style is a lot like Steph Curry's, and the Warriors really need a lockdown defender like Chris Singleton. Still, the value the Warriors got in the second round (nice reserve guard in Jenkins, sleeper in Tyler) makes their draft a lot better.
Los Angeles Clippers: Ended night with Trey Thompkins and Travis Leslie Grade: F Okay, I'm cheating a little here by including activities that happened before the draft in my assessment. But why is everyone letting the Clippers off the hook for their terrible handling of the Baron Davis trade? I highly doubt that top 3 protecting the pick for 2011 and 2012 would have been a deal breaker for the Cavaliers. In those types of salary cap trades, pick protection is often a formality. And yet, the Clippers somehow gave the Cavaliers the chance at a #1 pick, which, of course, was going to happen. The disappointing thing is, Kyrie Irving would have been an excellent fit in Los Angeles. Playing alongside Blake Griffin and Eric Gordon, the Clippers finally would have had a complete nucleus to build around. Alas, it wasn't meant to be. On top of that, they drafted an out of shape player with their first pick in the second round. For shame.
Los Angeles Lakers: Ended night with Darius Morris, Andrew Goudelock, and Ater Majok Grade: C- It was disappointing that the Lakers couldn't move up in the draft after starting the night with 4 second round picks. They got average value in Morris and Goudelock, and a guy who might never see the floor in the NBA in Majok. All in all, not a very good day for the Lakers.
Phoenix Suns: Ended night with Markieff Morris Grade: C- With the likes of Kawhi Leonard still on the board, the Suns took the worse Morris twin. Did I mention that the better Morris twin was still on the board as well? Some people think Markieff is a better NBA prospect, but I disagree. And I disagree altogether with the Suns taking any Morris with their only pick at 13. Disappointing.
Sacramento Kings: Ended night with John Salmons, Tyler Honeycutt, Isaiah Thomas, and rights to Jimmer Fredette Grade: D- The Kings draft day strategy was puzzling to say the least. Apparently, they got so caught up in trying to trade Beno Udrih and trying to rationalize taking Jimmer as high as their pick was that they forgot why they traded John Salmons and his abysmal contract in the first place. Now, they took on Salmons contract and moved down in the draft to do it! Getting good value in the Honeycutt pick doesn't make it that much better. Unless Isaiah Thomas miraculously turns into the next, well, Isiah Thomas, the Kings draft day was a failure.
Dallas Mavericks: Ended night with Rudy Fernandez and Petteri Koponen: C The Mavericks took a flyer on Fernandez by dealing Jordan Hamilton to the Blazers. I thought they would have been better served by keeping the talented Hamilton, but Fernandez has the potential to be the kind of shooter Dallas needs to put around Dirk. And for the record, their second round pick was Targuy Ngombo, but I don't see many Ngombo jerseys being sold in the foreseeable future.
Houston Rockets: Ended night with Johnny Flynn, Marcus Morris, and rights to Donatas Motijunas Grade: C- Another team that passed on Chris Singleton that I thought could have benefited from him. Other than that, thought it was an average draft for Houston.
Memphis Grizzlies: Ended night with Josh Selby Grade: B The Grizzlies only had one second-rounder to work with, but got a steal in Selby. If Selby is the player that everyone thought he was coming out of high school, he could play the minutes OJ Mayo did if Mayo indeed does get traded. If not, it's just a mid-second round pick that was used.
New Orleans Hornets: Ended night with cash Grade: I The Hornets get an I for incomplete, as they sold their only pick, a second rounder, to the Knicks.
San Antonio Spurs: Ended night with rights Kawhi Leonard, Cory Joseph, and Adam Hanga Grade: B In a trade that will benefit both sides, the Spurs dealt George Hill to get the defensive-minded Leonard. Despite being the #1 seed in the West last year, the Spurs defense slipped a little bit, and Leonard will help them get their defensive mojo back. The Spurs seemed to reach for Joseph, but it is hard to question a team that has drafted as brilliantly as the Spurs have recently.
Denver Nuggets: Ended night with Andre Miller, Kenneth Faried and rights to Jordan Hamilton Grade: B+ The Nuggets had an excellent draft night. By dealing Raymond Felton, the Nuggets got a veteran point guard that can help groom Ty Lawson for the future and got the rights to a very talented rookie in Jordan Hamilton. They also drafted the rebounding machine Kenneth Faried, whose signature skill will definitely translate to the NBA.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Ended night with Derrick Williams, Brad Miller, and Malcolm Lee Grade: C The Timberwolves also added a few picks in future drafts. David Kahn's idea seemed to be to continue to move out of the first round because he did not want another guaranteed rookie contract besides Williams. Still, he may have been better suited keeping Mirotic then. Mirotic isn't coming overseas for a few years, and Kahn wouldn't have had to pay him until when he did. Williams is a great talent, but must play the 3 to fit for the Wolves. Still, Kahn didn't mess up TOO bad, so I guess Minnesota fans are relieved.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Ended night with Reggie Jackson Grade: C The Thunder took Reggie Jackson, a point guard out of Boston College that I thought was a tad overrated going into the draft. Still, with one late first-round pick, there is only so much you can do.
Portland Trail Blazers: Ended night with Nolan Smith, Jon Diebler, Raymond Felton, and rights to Targuy Ngombo Grade: C The Blazers got younger at point guard by getting Felton, which was a trade that made sense for them. But both of their draft picks seemed to be reachers; Smith at #21 is a huge stretch, particularly with Faried still on the board. Diebler just doesn't seem like an NBA player to me. Sure, he can shoot, but so can a ton of players, and he has to get open.
Utah Jazz: Ended night with Enes Kanter and Alec Burks Grade: B+ Kudos to the Jazz for not letting their infatuation with Brandon Knight let them pass on the best player available at 3, which was Kanter. Bigs of Kanter's calibur are tough to come by. And Utah made their draft even better by getting a great scorer in Burks at 12. A very nice day for a rebuilding team that may be closer than we all think.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Draft Analysis (Eastern Conference)
So, my picking of the draft didn't go so well. In my defense, I did nail 4 of the top 6, and no one should have ever had the Cavaliers taking Tristan Thompson 4th, because it just should not have happened. Then, approximately 45 trades happened and screwed everything up! Regardless, let's try to make sense of everything that happened, and give out draft grades to every team. (Today, the East!)
Boston Celtics:Ended night with rights to JaJuan Johnson, E'Twaun Moore, and Nets' 2014 second-round pick Grade: B- The Celtics nabbed two former Boilermakers on draft day. I thought the E'Twaun Moore pick was good, as he has a slight chance of being a rotation guy someday, and that's all you can ask for late in the second round. JaJuan Johnson is intriguing, because he will definitely have to fill out and develop to be any kind of a difference maker in the NBA. Still, learning from Kevin Garnett will definitely help, as will playing in a defensive system that sends a lot of help to their bigs. Undersized big men can thrive in these kinds of defensive schemes. Still, Boston may have traded away a steal in MarShon Brooks to get Johnson. Brooks has the potential to be a dynamic scorer, and the Celtics may regret trading him away.
New Jersey Nets: Ended night with rights to MarShon Brooks and Jordan Williams Grade: A- The Nets received MarShon Brooks in a trade from the Celtics, and have to be happy about that. A scoring threat to pair with Williams in the backcourt, Brooks could have an immediate impact. Although I thought a team would take a flier on Williams late in the first round, he fell to the second for the Nets to grab. However, I don't know if this will be a good thing for them. I'm not a big believer in Williams, even if he does lose some weight. And getting compared to Michael Sweetney on draft day isn't the best way to start your NBA career.
New York Knicks: Ended night with Iman Shumpert, rights to Josh Harrellson Grade: C- The Knicks reaching for Shumpert seems a little puzzling, as they have a similar player in Landry Fields. It seems like there were several better options left on the board. New York also bought into the second round for Harrellson, who could be a decent reserve in a few years. Still, not much for the Knicks to be excited about on draft day.
Philadelphia 76ers: Ended night with Nikola Vucevic and Lavoy Allen Grade: B-
Boston Celtics:Ended night with rights to JaJuan Johnson, E'Twaun Moore, and Nets' 2014 second-round pick Grade: B- The Celtics nabbed two former Boilermakers on draft day. I thought the E'Twaun Moore pick was good, as he has a slight chance of being a rotation guy someday, and that's all you can ask for late in the second round. JaJuan Johnson is intriguing, because he will definitely have to fill out and develop to be any kind of a difference maker in the NBA. Still, learning from Kevin Garnett will definitely help, as will playing in a defensive system that sends a lot of help to their bigs. Undersized big men can thrive in these kinds of defensive schemes. Still, Boston may have traded away a steal in MarShon Brooks to get Johnson. Brooks has the potential to be a dynamic scorer, and the Celtics may regret trading him away.
New Jersey Nets: Ended night with rights to MarShon Brooks and Jordan Williams Grade: A- The Nets received MarShon Brooks in a trade from the Celtics, and have to be happy about that. A scoring threat to pair with Williams in the backcourt, Brooks could have an immediate impact. Although I thought a team would take a flier on Williams late in the first round, he fell to the second for the Nets to grab. However, I don't know if this will be a good thing for them. I'm not a big believer in Williams, even if he does lose some weight. And getting compared to Michael Sweetney on draft day isn't the best way to start your NBA career.
New York Knicks: Ended night with Iman Shumpert, rights to Josh Harrellson Grade: C- The Knicks reaching for Shumpert seems a little puzzling, as they have a similar player in Landry Fields. It seems like there were several better options left on the board. New York also bought into the second round for Harrellson, who could be a decent reserve in a few years. Still, not much for the Knicks to be excited about on draft day.
Philadelphia 76ers: Ended night with Nikola Vucevic and Lavoy Allen Grade: B-
The 76ers got their man in Vucevic, who they hope will eventually succeed Spencer Hawes. Allen will probably not see much time in the NBA. No surprises from Philadelphia, but they are probably content with how things went down.
Toronto Raptors: Ended night with Jonas Valanciunas Grade: B The fans might not be happy in getting a player that might not come over this year, but Valanciunas is very skilled, and a lot of international scouts have him rated higher than Enes Kanter in terms of playing ability. When he does come overseas, he should make an immediate impact.
Chicago Bulls: Ended night with rights to Nikola Mirotic and Jimmy Butler Grade: B+ I really liked what the Bulls did on draft night. They didn't seem like they wanted to use up two roster spots on late-first round rookies, so it seemed like they were going to stash a European from the start. Although I had them getting Davis Bertans, they upgraded immensely with Mirotic. Even though he might not come over to play in the NBA for four years, he is extremely talented. Some experts say that Mirotic would have been a lottery pick had he been able to come over this year. I also thought the Bulls might reach on a shooting guard, given their dire need at the position. However, they took the best player available in Jimmy Butler. Butler seems like a great athlete and defender who can spell Luol Deng (who played 39 minutes/game last year) for stretches, and be an effective player. Excellent pick at # 30.
Cleveland Cavaliers: Ended night with Kyrie Irving, Tristan Thompson, Milan Macvan, and two future Orlando Magic second-round picks Grade: D+ The Cavaliers shocked everyone by picking Thompson 4th. I thought I was high on Thompson, and even I didn't think he should go higher than 7-11th. It seems the Cavaliers were really hoping Utah took Brandon Knight, but when they took Kanter off the board, Cleveland panicked. Thompson can definitely be an effective player in this league, but he's a bit of a gamble and there were several better options on the board. The Cavaliers will be a much better team because of the players they got in the draft, but not as good as they could have been.
Detroit Pistons: Ended night with Brandon Knight and Kyle Singler Grade: B The Pistons got an explosive guard in Knight, who was a steal at 8. This probably means that they have to move Rodney Stuckey, but it will be interesting if they try to make the two play together. I wasn't really high on Singler, but he's not a bad value pick in the second round.
Indiana Pacers: Ended night with George Hill, rights to Erazem Lorbek Grade: A The Pacers reaped the benefits of having Leonard fall to them. Even though he was not a good fit with them, they traded him for George Hill, who instantly fills the team's most pressing need. Hill is an explosive scorer that can play off the ball and compliment Darren Collison. The Pacers instantly made themselves a much better team, and not many teams can say that after this draft night.
Milwaukee Bucks: Ended night with Stephen Jackson, Beno Udrih, Shaun Livingston, the rights to Tobias Harris, and Jon Leuer Grade: B The Bucks got the perimeter scorer they need in Jackson, a veteran who can sometimes cause problems but whose ability to put the ball in the basket is unquestioned. Beno Udrih is a decent (yet overpaid) guard who can play quality minutes. Harris is a bit of a project, but a good talent to find midway through the first round. It seemed like Milwaukee had a good draft day, but not a great one.
Atlanta Hawks: Ended night with Keith Benson Grade: C The Hawks get a C because there simply was not much for them to do, good or bad. Benson was their only pick halfway through the second round.
Charlotte Bobcats: Ended night with Corey Maggette, rights to Bismack Biyombo, Kemba Walker, and Jeremy Tyler Grade: B+ The Bobcats had an excellent draft day (am I actually saying that?) They traded away Stephen Jackson, which makes sense for a rebuilding team. They got Biyombo, maybe the most intriguing player in the draft because of his defensive ability. They got Kemba Walker, a proven winner and effective floor general. What a haul for Jordan and the Bobcats
Miami Heat: Ended night with rights to Norris Cole Grade: B The Heat got a solid back-up point guard in Cole, who could spell Chalmers from time to time.
Orlando Magic: Ended night with rights to Justin Harper, DeAndre Liggins Grade: C+ The Magic traded for another big who can shoot in Harper, a good value pick in the second round, and got Liggins, who won't play enough to merit me writing more details about him.
Washington Wizards: Ended night with Jan Vesely, Chris Singleton and Shelvin Mack Grade: B Vesely was the Wizards guy, and is talented enough to be a starter this season. Singleton looks like a great defensive guard whose offensive game is a work in progress. Mack could be a good second round pick, as he is a competitor with enough talent to be a reserve combo guard. All in all, a good day for the Wizards.
Toronto Raptors: Ended night with Jonas Valanciunas Grade: B The fans might not be happy in getting a player that might not come over this year, but Valanciunas is very skilled, and a lot of international scouts have him rated higher than Enes Kanter in terms of playing ability. When he does come overseas, he should make an immediate impact.
Chicago Bulls: Ended night with rights to Nikola Mirotic and Jimmy Butler Grade: B+ I really liked what the Bulls did on draft night. They didn't seem like they wanted to use up two roster spots on late-first round rookies, so it seemed like they were going to stash a European from the start. Although I had them getting Davis Bertans, they upgraded immensely with Mirotic. Even though he might not come over to play in the NBA for four years, he is extremely talented. Some experts say that Mirotic would have been a lottery pick had he been able to come over this year. I also thought the Bulls might reach on a shooting guard, given their dire need at the position. However, they took the best player available in Jimmy Butler. Butler seems like a great athlete and defender who can spell Luol Deng (who played 39 minutes/game last year) for stretches, and be an effective player. Excellent pick at # 30.
Cleveland Cavaliers: Ended night with Kyrie Irving, Tristan Thompson, Milan Macvan, and two future Orlando Magic second-round picks Grade: D+ The Cavaliers shocked everyone by picking Thompson 4th. I thought I was high on Thompson, and even I didn't think he should go higher than 7-11th. It seems the Cavaliers were really hoping Utah took Brandon Knight, but when they took Kanter off the board, Cleveland panicked. Thompson can definitely be an effective player in this league, but he's a bit of a gamble and there were several better options on the board. The Cavaliers will be a much better team because of the players they got in the draft, but not as good as they could have been.
Detroit Pistons: Ended night with Brandon Knight and Kyle Singler Grade: B The Pistons got an explosive guard in Knight, who was a steal at 8. This probably means that they have to move Rodney Stuckey, but it will be interesting if they try to make the two play together. I wasn't really high on Singler, but he's not a bad value pick in the second round.
Indiana Pacers: Ended night with George Hill, rights to Erazem Lorbek Grade: A The Pacers reaped the benefits of having Leonard fall to them. Even though he was not a good fit with them, they traded him for George Hill, who instantly fills the team's most pressing need. Hill is an explosive scorer that can play off the ball and compliment Darren Collison. The Pacers instantly made themselves a much better team, and not many teams can say that after this draft night.
Milwaukee Bucks: Ended night with Stephen Jackson, Beno Udrih, Shaun Livingston, the rights to Tobias Harris, and Jon Leuer Grade: B The Bucks got the perimeter scorer they need in Jackson, a veteran who can sometimes cause problems but whose ability to put the ball in the basket is unquestioned. Beno Udrih is a decent (yet overpaid) guard who can play quality minutes. Harris is a bit of a project, but a good talent to find midway through the first round. It seemed like Milwaukee had a good draft day, but not a great one.
Atlanta Hawks: Ended night with Keith Benson Grade: C The Hawks get a C because there simply was not much for them to do, good or bad. Benson was their only pick halfway through the second round.
Charlotte Bobcats: Ended night with Corey Maggette, rights to Bismack Biyombo, Kemba Walker, and Jeremy Tyler Grade: B+ The Bobcats had an excellent draft day (am I actually saying that?) They traded away Stephen Jackson, which makes sense for a rebuilding team. They got Biyombo, maybe the most intriguing player in the draft because of his defensive ability. They got Kemba Walker, a proven winner and effective floor general. What a haul for Jordan and the Bobcats
Miami Heat: Ended night with rights to Norris Cole Grade: B The Heat got a solid back-up point guard in Cole, who could spell Chalmers from time to time.
Orlando Magic: Ended night with rights to Justin Harper, DeAndre Liggins Grade: C+ The Magic traded for another big who can shoot in Harper, a good value pick in the second round, and got Liggins, who won't play enough to merit me writing more details about him.
Washington Wizards: Ended night with Jan Vesely, Chris Singleton and Shelvin Mack Grade: B Vesely was the Wizards guy, and is talented enough to be a starter this season. Singleton looks like a great defensive guard whose offensive game is a work in progress. Mack could be a good second round pick, as he is a competitor with enough talent to be a reserve combo guard. All in all, a good day for the Wizards.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
2011 NBA Mock Draft
Alright, alright. Here it is. It took me a long time for me to get back to my neglected blog, but here I am. After hearing several complaints from my loyal fans (by that, I mean my mom), I have decided to break the slump with a mock of the first-round of the NBA draft that is on Thursday night. Don't thank me for writing this post; thank my ear infection that is keeping me up at 3:30 in the morning. (If you just want to read the mock draft and not listen to me cry about my life, scroll down.)
My reasons for not blogging lately are simple. After the Bulls lost to the Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals, I spent most of my time talking myself down from the ledge. (They're a young team, they'll sign a real shooting guard. the Heat didn't win it all, Derrick Rose, Derrick Rose, Derrick Rose!). I finally came to realize the team is on the right track and came down.
Unfortunately, the Bulls being eliminated made it so much harder to ignore the huge white elephant in the room. That, of course, is the Chicago Cubs. Being as optimistic as a Cubs fan can be, I can normally find a reason to pretend they will be contenders. At least in June. For a little.
This year is different. The team is awful in a Paranormal Activity sort of way; there is just no excuse to watch them, and yet thousands do and pretend it's enjoyable. (Shut up, Paranormal Activity fans, that movie is terrible. Oooh a curtain is moving, I'm so scared.)
So, after it took weeks to move on from the Bulls' heartbreaking failure, I have to endure a painfully bad team. If it weren't for the fantastic young middle infielders Darwin Barney and Starlin Castro, I'd have lost my mind by now.
It took me a while to accept that this team will not be doing anything this year, and realistically won't be a contender until all of their major contracts come off the books.
But here I am! Ready to talk about the NBA draft. I don't pretend to know any inside information from teams, but I have read hundreds (okay, about twenty) of mock drafts and accumulated as much information as possible. Mock drafts are extremely difficult, because one unknown factor (a trade, a team not being sold on a guy, etc) can affect every player behind it. However, this is my projection of what happens Thursday.
1.) Cleveland Cavaliers Kyrie Irving PG Duke Barring some unforeseen circumstances, Irving will be selected first overall. Being a perennial all-star in a conference stacked with stud point guards (Deron Williams, Rajon Rondo, and Rose) will be difficult for Irving, but playing against such talent will only speed up his development.
2.) Minnesota Timberwolves Derrick Williams SF/PF Arizona This pick may be traded, but it is doubtful anyone else goes 2nd. Williams is the 2nd most talented player in this draft, and he has the potential to be a dynamic player in the NBA. If the Wolves keep him, they will hope he can successfully play the 3 alongside Kevin Love, and likely would try to move Michael Beasley.
3.) Utah Jazz Brandon Knight PG Kentucky Although I think Enes Kanter is the most talented player left, Jazz GM Kevin O'Connor appears to be enthralled with the potential of Knight and is not sold on Devin Harris as the point guard of the future. Knight is the type of prospect that is big-time or bust. His athletic ability and play-making skills are remarkable, but his fundamentals and decision-making leave a lot to be desired.
4.) Cleveland Cavaliers Enes Kanter Pf/C Turkey One of the great unknowns of the draft, Kanter has remarkable upside. A talented and physically remarkable speciman, Kanter could give the Cavaliers the scoring threat they need alongside Anderson Varejao down low.
5.) Toronto Raptors Jonas Valanciunas PF/C Lithuania Although a lot of mocks have Kemba Walker going here, I think the talent of the big Lithuanian will be too much to pass up for the Raptors. The uncertain contract situation should not deter the Raptors, as they have no chance of contending next year anyway. (Besides, there might not be a next year)
6.) Washington Wizards Jan Vesely SF/PF Belgrade If Valanciunas is off the board, look for the Wizards to take the frontcourt player from Belgrade to pair with the dynamic John Wall. Vesely is 6-11 and still able to make athletic plays. He will need to develop, but the Wizards are a team looking to contend in 3 or 4 years at best, so that is not an issue.
7.) Sacramento Kings Kemba Walker PG UConn If things go as projected before this, the Kings will be deciding between Walker, Jimmer Fredette, and Kawhi Leonard. It seems the Kings would like to move Tyreke Evans off the ball in the backcourt, and Walker could do that. He has shown the ability to run the point in college; the question will be if he can handle not being the top dog in crunch time.
8.) Detroit Pistons Kawhi Leonard SF San Diego St Some Pistons fans are pining for Bismack Biyombo, who has drawn comparisons to Ben Wallace. But with his job on the line, Joe Dumars will probably opt for the safer pick in Leonard, who will contribute right away with his defensive ability.
9.) Charlotte Bobcats Tristan Thompson PF Texas Thompson is another high-risk, high-reward pick, but his potential should be enough for the Bobcats to take him here. A high-motor guy down low, Thompson must fill out his frame to merit his top 10 status.
10.) Milwaukee Bucks Alec Burks SG Colorado Burks has seen his stock take a hit since the start of workouts, but he still may be the best shooting guard in the draft. The Bucks need a perimeter scorer, and Burks fits that need.
11.) Golden State Warriors Chris Singleton SF Florida St If Burks is available, the Warriors likely grab him here. A lot of mocks have the Warriors selecting Klay Thompson, but the Warriors already have the outside bomber in Curry. Golden State has said they are pursuing players that would make them better defensively. Singleton fits the bill, and has been showing in workouts he is better than advertised on the other side of the ball as well.
12.) Utah Jazz Jimmer Fredette SG BYU Although some have said the Jazz will certainly not take 2 guards, it seems plausible if they feel they can sign Andre Kirilenko to an extension. Fredette can be the instant offense that Utah needs in its backcourt.
13.) Phoenix Suns Marcus Morris SF/PF Kansas If Marcus Morris is still available, the Suns will probably grab him here. They need a versatile player that can score inside, and Marcus can fill that need.
14.) Houston Rockets Donatas Motiejunas PF/C Lithuania Motiejunas is a talented scorer, but horrific defensively. He'll need to improve dramatically on that end to be a star, but his offensive skills should translate well to the NBA, and the Rockets almost certainly will take a frontcourt player here.
15.) Indiana Pacers Klay Thompson SG/SF Washington St Pacers fans would be ecstatic if the talented Thompson was left on the board. He can shoot the ball extremely well. However, if the Pacers want to gamble, they could take Marshon Brooks here. The Pacers are in dire need of a playmaker, and Brooks has those capabilities. In the end though, getting a guaranteed solid player in Thompson may prove too tempting to pass up.
16.) Philadelphia 76ers Nikola Vucevic PF/C USC The 76ers do not seem content with Spencer Hawes starting, and will probably select a frontcourt player here. Reports are that they are high on Vucevic, an experienced big who seems to be a better version of Hawes.
17.) New York Knicks Markieff Morris PF Kansas The Knicks are in desperate need of some rebounding, and Markieff Morris is tough and rebounds well. He also shoots well enough to play in Mike D'Antoni's system.
18.) Washington Wizards Marshon Brooks SG Providence Brooks has created a lot of buzz leading up to draft day. The Wizards will hope he can live up to the hype if they select this dynamic scorer.
19.) Charlotte Bobcats Bismack Biyombo PF Spain No player seems to have as wide a draft range as Biyombo; he could go in the top 10 or as late as the early 20's. The Bobcats would be extremely grateful if the defensively-gifted Biyombo fell to them here.
20.) Minnesota Timberwolves Jordan Hamilton SF Texas My gut is that someone trades up to take the talented Hamilton, who was projected as a lottery pick for a lot of the year before seeing his stock plummet.
21.) Portland Trail Blazers Kenneth Faried PF Morehead St Faried would be an intriguing option for the Trail Blazers. The best rebounder in college basketball may not help the offensively challenged Blazers on that end, but putting him at a forward spot alongside Gerald Wallace would be an excellent defensive and rebounding combination.
22.) Denver Nuggets Tobias Harris SF/PF Tennessee Harris may have been better served staying in school one more year. Still, he has enough upside that the Nuggets consider him here.
23.) Houston Rockets Iman Shumpert PG/SG Georgia Tech Shumpert is a big, athletic guard that could give Houston an excellent athlete and defender.
24.) Oklahoma City Jeremy Tyler C Tokyo Sam Presti has an eye for steals in the draft, and could see Tyler, once touted as a lottery prospect, as one late in the first round.
25.) Boston Celtics Jordan Williams C Maryland The Celtics will probably go big here, as their frontcourt has been depleted by stupid trades, retirements, and deportations (just kidding, Nenad Krstic. Have fun in Russia!) Williams has shed a ton of weight and shot up the draft board as a result.
26.) Dallas Mavericks Josh Selby PG/SG Kansas The Mavericks may take a risk with Selby, who has enormous offensive potential, at the end of the first round.
27.) New Jersey Nets Chandler Parsons SF Florida Parsons has seen his stock rise after some impressive workouts, and he would be a matchup problem for most small forwards at 6-10.
28.) Chicago Bulls Travis Leslie SG Georgia Bulls fans would love to see an explosive scorer next to Derrick Rose, and Leslie has that kind of potential. If he falls to 28, look for the Bulls to nab him.
29.) San Antonio Spurs JaJuan Johnson PF Purdue Johnson's lack of muscle concerns any suitor, but the Spurs take him as a value pick late in the first round and hope he continues to fill out.
30.) Chicago Bulls Davis Bertans SF Latvia If the Bulls do keep both picks, look for this pick to be Bertans. It makes sense for the Bulls to pick Bertans, as they can wait out the sharpshooter's stay in Europe for at least one more year.
My reasons for not blogging lately are simple. After the Bulls lost to the Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals, I spent most of my time talking myself down from the ledge. (They're a young team, they'll sign a real shooting guard. the Heat didn't win it all, Derrick Rose, Derrick Rose, Derrick Rose!). I finally came to realize the team is on the right track and came down.
Unfortunately, the Bulls being eliminated made it so much harder to ignore the huge white elephant in the room. That, of course, is the Chicago Cubs. Being as optimistic as a Cubs fan can be, I can normally find a reason to pretend they will be contenders. At least in June. For a little.
This year is different. The team is awful in a Paranormal Activity sort of way; there is just no excuse to watch them, and yet thousands do and pretend it's enjoyable. (Shut up, Paranormal Activity fans, that movie is terrible. Oooh a curtain is moving, I'm so scared.)
So, after it took weeks to move on from the Bulls' heartbreaking failure, I have to endure a painfully bad team. If it weren't for the fantastic young middle infielders Darwin Barney and Starlin Castro, I'd have lost my mind by now.
It took me a while to accept that this team will not be doing anything this year, and realistically won't be a contender until all of their major contracts come off the books.
But here I am! Ready to talk about the NBA draft. I don't pretend to know any inside information from teams, but I have read hundreds (okay, about twenty) of mock drafts and accumulated as much information as possible. Mock drafts are extremely difficult, because one unknown factor (a trade, a team not being sold on a guy, etc) can affect every player behind it. However, this is my projection of what happens Thursday.
1.) Cleveland Cavaliers Kyrie Irving PG Duke Barring some unforeseen circumstances, Irving will be selected first overall. Being a perennial all-star in a conference stacked with stud point guards (Deron Williams, Rajon Rondo, and Rose) will be difficult for Irving, but playing against such talent will only speed up his development.
2.) Minnesota Timberwolves Derrick Williams SF/PF Arizona This pick may be traded, but it is doubtful anyone else goes 2nd. Williams is the 2nd most talented player in this draft, and he has the potential to be a dynamic player in the NBA. If the Wolves keep him, they will hope he can successfully play the 3 alongside Kevin Love, and likely would try to move Michael Beasley.
3.) Utah Jazz Brandon Knight PG Kentucky Although I think Enes Kanter is the most talented player left, Jazz GM Kevin O'Connor appears to be enthralled with the potential of Knight and is not sold on Devin Harris as the point guard of the future. Knight is the type of prospect that is big-time or bust. His athletic ability and play-making skills are remarkable, but his fundamentals and decision-making leave a lot to be desired.
4.) Cleveland Cavaliers Enes Kanter Pf/C Turkey One of the great unknowns of the draft, Kanter has remarkable upside. A talented and physically remarkable speciman, Kanter could give the Cavaliers the scoring threat they need alongside Anderson Varejao down low.
5.) Toronto Raptors Jonas Valanciunas PF/C Lithuania Although a lot of mocks have Kemba Walker going here, I think the talent of the big Lithuanian will be too much to pass up for the Raptors. The uncertain contract situation should not deter the Raptors, as they have no chance of contending next year anyway. (Besides, there might not be a next year)
6.) Washington Wizards Jan Vesely SF/PF Belgrade If Valanciunas is off the board, look for the Wizards to take the frontcourt player from Belgrade to pair with the dynamic John Wall. Vesely is 6-11 and still able to make athletic plays. He will need to develop, but the Wizards are a team looking to contend in 3 or 4 years at best, so that is not an issue.
7.) Sacramento Kings Kemba Walker PG UConn If things go as projected before this, the Kings will be deciding between Walker, Jimmer Fredette, and Kawhi Leonard. It seems the Kings would like to move Tyreke Evans off the ball in the backcourt, and Walker could do that. He has shown the ability to run the point in college; the question will be if he can handle not being the top dog in crunch time.
8.) Detroit Pistons Kawhi Leonard SF San Diego St Some Pistons fans are pining for Bismack Biyombo, who has drawn comparisons to Ben Wallace. But with his job on the line, Joe Dumars will probably opt for the safer pick in Leonard, who will contribute right away with his defensive ability.
9.) Charlotte Bobcats Tristan Thompson PF Texas Thompson is another high-risk, high-reward pick, but his potential should be enough for the Bobcats to take him here. A high-motor guy down low, Thompson must fill out his frame to merit his top 10 status.
10.) Milwaukee Bucks Alec Burks SG Colorado Burks has seen his stock take a hit since the start of workouts, but he still may be the best shooting guard in the draft. The Bucks need a perimeter scorer, and Burks fits that need.
11.) Golden State Warriors Chris Singleton SF Florida St If Burks is available, the Warriors likely grab him here. A lot of mocks have the Warriors selecting Klay Thompson, but the Warriors already have the outside bomber in Curry. Golden State has said they are pursuing players that would make them better defensively. Singleton fits the bill, and has been showing in workouts he is better than advertised on the other side of the ball as well.
12.) Utah Jazz Jimmer Fredette SG BYU Although some have said the Jazz will certainly not take 2 guards, it seems plausible if they feel they can sign Andre Kirilenko to an extension. Fredette can be the instant offense that Utah needs in its backcourt.
13.) Phoenix Suns Marcus Morris SF/PF Kansas If Marcus Morris is still available, the Suns will probably grab him here. They need a versatile player that can score inside, and Marcus can fill that need.
14.) Houston Rockets Donatas Motiejunas PF/C Lithuania Motiejunas is a talented scorer, but horrific defensively. He'll need to improve dramatically on that end to be a star, but his offensive skills should translate well to the NBA, and the Rockets almost certainly will take a frontcourt player here.
15.) Indiana Pacers Klay Thompson SG/SF Washington St Pacers fans would be ecstatic if the talented Thompson was left on the board. He can shoot the ball extremely well. However, if the Pacers want to gamble, they could take Marshon Brooks here. The Pacers are in dire need of a playmaker, and Brooks has those capabilities. In the end though, getting a guaranteed solid player in Thompson may prove too tempting to pass up.
16.) Philadelphia 76ers Nikola Vucevic PF/C USC The 76ers do not seem content with Spencer Hawes starting, and will probably select a frontcourt player here. Reports are that they are high on Vucevic, an experienced big who seems to be a better version of Hawes.
17.) New York Knicks Markieff Morris PF Kansas The Knicks are in desperate need of some rebounding, and Markieff Morris is tough and rebounds well. He also shoots well enough to play in Mike D'Antoni's system.
18.) Washington Wizards Marshon Brooks SG Providence Brooks has created a lot of buzz leading up to draft day. The Wizards will hope he can live up to the hype if they select this dynamic scorer.
19.) Charlotte Bobcats Bismack Biyombo PF Spain No player seems to have as wide a draft range as Biyombo; he could go in the top 10 or as late as the early 20's. The Bobcats would be extremely grateful if the defensively-gifted Biyombo fell to them here.
20.) Minnesota Timberwolves Jordan Hamilton SF Texas My gut is that someone trades up to take the talented Hamilton, who was projected as a lottery pick for a lot of the year before seeing his stock plummet.
21.) Portland Trail Blazers Kenneth Faried PF Morehead St Faried would be an intriguing option for the Trail Blazers. The best rebounder in college basketball may not help the offensively challenged Blazers on that end, but putting him at a forward spot alongside Gerald Wallace would be an excellent defensive and rebounding combination.
22.) Denver Nuggets Tobias Harris SF/PF Tennessee Harris may have been better served staying in school one more year. Still, he has enough upside that the Nuggets consider him here.
23.) Houston Rockets Iman Shumpert PG/SG Georgia Tech Shumpert is a big, athletic guard that could give Houston an excellent athlete and defender.
24.) Oklahoma City Jeremy Tyler C Tokyo Sam Presti has an eye for steals in the draft, and could see Tyler, once touted as a lottery prospect, as one late in the first round.
25.) Boston Celtics Jordan Williams C Maryland The Celtics will probably go big here, as their frontcourt has been depleted by stupid trades, retirements, and deportations (just kidding, Nenad Krstic. Have fun in Russia!) Williams has shed a ton of weight and shot up the draft board as a result.
26.) Dallas Mavericks Josh Selby PG/SG Kansas The Mavericks may take a risk with Selby, who has enormous offensive potential, at the end of the first round.
27.) New Jersey Nets Chandler Parsons SF Florida Parsons has seen his stock rise after some impressive workouts, and he would be a matchup problem for most small forwards at 6-10.
28.) Chicago Bulls Travis Leslie SG Georgia Bulls fans would love to see an explosive scorer next to Derrick Rose, and Leslie has that kind of potential. If he falls to 28, look for the Bulls to nab him.
29.) San Antonio Spurs JaJuan Johnson PF Purdue Johnson's lack of muscle concerns any suitor, but the Spurs take him as a value pick late in the first round and hope he continues to fill out.
30.) Chicago Bulls Davis Bertans SF Latvia If the Bulls do keep both picks, look for this pick to be Bertans. It makes sense for the Bulls to pick Bertans, as they can wait out the sharpshooter's stay in Europe for at least one more year.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Lightning keeps striking
Try as they might, no one can seem to bottle up the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Boston Bruins thought they had Tampa Bay figured out. Their goalie, Tim Thomas, was coming off an impressive shutout performance in Game 3, and the Bruins had a stranglehold on Game 4 after the 1st period, leading 3-0. It was getting so lopsided that Tampa Bay pulled their starting goalie due to ineffectiveness. A win would have given Boston a 3-1 series lead, and put them a win away from the Stanley Cup Finals.
However, the Lightning had different ideas. After a brutal fight to end the first period, Tampa Bay came out scoring, with two goals a minute apart by Teddy Purcell to pull within one. Minutes later, Sean Bergenheim tied the game at 3 apiece. Bergenheim leads the NHL in goals this postseason with 9. He had only 14 the entire regular season.
In the third period, it was the stars who showed up for Tampa Bay. Simon Gagne netted the game-winner, and Martin St. Louis the game-clinching empty netter for a 5-3 win. Mike Smith, who played in 22 games all season, was perfect in relief, stopping all 21 shots he saw.
The Lightning have been an offensive juggernaut all postseason. Tampa Bay leads the NHL in goals/game, with 3.43. Martin St. Louis and Vincent Lecavalier are tied with Ryan Kesler for the second most points in the postseason with 16.
The Lightning, like their name implies, like the strike fast and hard. While most teams use a 1-2-2 as their basic forechecking system, Tampa Bay uses the aggressive 2-1-2. In a normal 1-2-2 system, the forward closest to the puck applies presser to the opposing player with the puck, and attempts to dislodge it. Another forward attempts to gain possession of the dislodged puck, and the third forward cuts off weak-side passing lanes.
The 2-1-2 is completely different. In this system, the team dumps a puck into the offensive zone and has two forwards immediately put pressure on the puck. The third forward supports the two attacking forwards, and the defensemen are pulled up from the neutral zone to the opposing blue line. If the strategy backfires, the opposition can have an easy run at the goal. But, when used effectively, it can be deadly, because it puts a ton of pressure on the defending team.
The Tampa Bay Lightning are attempting to be the make history. If they can somehow win the Stanley Cup, they would become only the second 5 seed in NHL history to capture the trophy. The New Jersey Devils won the cup as the 5 seed in the East in 1995. And unless Tim Thomas and the Bruins can figure out how to stop the aggressive scoring attack of the Lightning, Tampa Bay might just have their chance.
The Boston Bruins thought they had Tampa Bay figured out. Their goalie, Tim Thomas, was coming off an impressive shutout performance in Game 3, and the Bruins had a stranglehold on Game 4 after the 1st period, leading 3-0. It was getting so lopsided that Tampa Bay pulled their starting goalie due to ineffectiveness. A win would have given Boston a 3-1 series lead, and put them a win away from the Stanley Cup Finals.
However, the Lightning had different ideas. After a brutal fight to end the first period, Tampa Bay came out scoring, with two goals a minute apart by Teddy Purcell to pull within one. Minutes later, Sean Bergenheim tied the game at 3 apiece. Bergenheim leads the NHL in goals this postseason with 9. He had only 14 the entire regular season.
In the third period, it was the stars who showed up for Tampa Bay. Simon Gagne netted the game-winner, and Martin St. Louis the game-clinching empty netter for a 5-3 win. Mike Smith, who played in 22 games all season, was perfect in relief, stopping all 21 shots he saw.
The Lightning have been an offensive juggernaut all postseason. Tampa Bay leads the NHL in goals/game, with 3.43. Martin St. Louis and Vincent Lecavalier are tied with Ryan Kesler for the second most points in the postseason with 16.
The Lightning, like their name implies, like the strike fast and hard. While most teams use a 1-2-2 as their basic forechecking system, Tampa Bay uses the aggressive 2-1-2. In a normal 1-2-2 system, the forward closest to the puck applies presser to the opposing player with the puck, and attempts to dislodge it. Another forward attempts to gain possession of the dislodged puck, and the third forward cuts off weak-side passing lanes.
The 2-1-2 is completely different. In this system, the team dumps a puck into the offensive zone and has two forwards immediately put pressure on the puck. The third forward supports the two attacking forwards, and the defensemen are pulled up from the neutral zone to the opposing blue line. If the strategy backfires, the opposition can have an easy run at the goal. But, when used effectively, it can be deadly, because it puts a ton of pressure on the defending team.
The Tampa Bay Lightning are attempting to be the make history. If they can somehow win the Stanley Cup, they would become only the second 5 seed in NHL history to capture the trophy. The New Jersey Devils won the cup as the 5 seed in the East in 1995. And unless Tim Thomas and the Bruins can figure out how to stop the aggressive scoring attack of the Lightning, Tampa Bay might just have their chance.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
The Good, The Bad, and Russell Westbrook
With the top two stars in the game putting on a show, the third best player's ugly performance decided the game.
Dirk Nowitzki had a game for the ages. 48 points, 80% shooting, 24 FT's without a miss. The unheralded European has really shown this postseason why he just might be the most unguardable player in the sport.
With all the attention going to Dirk, Kevin Durant had one of the quietest 40 point games I've ever seen. He was quite efficient himself, scoring on 56% from the field and 95% from the line. Durant's persistence to keep his team in the game is a good sign for OKC fans.
Yet it won't mean much if Russell Westbrook does not step up his game. Westbrook managed 20 points, but shot 20% from the field and managed only 3 assists. Far removed from the 14 he had in Game 7 against Memphis.
Credit the Dallas defense. The Mavericks spent a lot of time in the zone in an effort to keep Westbrook from getting easy looks off drives.Tyson Chandler and Brendan Haywood played outstanding defense at the rim, and the rotations in the zone were phenomenal.
With that being said, Westbrook needs to play a lot better if he is going to help his team advance to the Finals. Although Westbrook only took 15 shots, and only a few were questionable looks, he still needs to get his teammates involved. James Harden is a good shooter and playmaker, and should have taken more than 9 shots in 36 minutes against a zone. Durant should have started getting the ball as much as Nowitzki in the fourth quarter. Westbrook needs to get the ball to the right teammate, and earlier in the shot clock. He is doing too much dribbling around the perimeter; either get into the lane or give the ball up.
Westbrook should also take a lesson from Derrick Rose. Prior to this season, Rose was always content to shoot floaters and fadeaways in the lane. This year, he is taking that extra dribble, absorbing contact, and drawing more fouls.
Westbrook does this sometimes. His 18 FT's are evidence that he does get to the line. But if you watched the game, you could tell that he could get to the line even more if he took one extra dribble and got more contact. The Mavericks can't match his speed, and if he learns how to draw more contact, he'll be going to the line even more.
The Thunder need to come up with a better strategy of defending Dirk, because isolation coverage is definitely not working. Maybe the best way would be to front him some possessions and have a quick rotation inside. Mark Jackson's analysis seemed right on the money; OKC has to let Jason Kidd, DeShawn Stevenson, or J.J. Barea beat them with jump shots. But it won't matter much if Westbrook doesn't play better. He must play like the third best player in the series, or Dallas will be heading to the Finals.
Dirk Nowitzki had a game for the ages. 48 points, 80% shooting, 24 FT's without a miss. The unheralded European has really shown this postseason why he just might be the most unguardable player in the sport.
With all the attention going to Dirk, Kevin Durant had one of the quietest 40 point games I've ever seen. He was quite efficient himself, scoring on 56% from the field and 95% from the line. Durant's persistence to keep his team in the game is a good sign for OKC fans.
Yet it won't mean much if Russell Westbrook does not step up his game. Westbrook managed 20 points, but shot 20% from the field and managed only 3 assists. Far removed from the 14 he had in Game 7 against Memphis.
Credit the Dallas defense. The Mavericks spent a lot of time in the zone in an effort to keep Westbrook from getting easy looks off drives.Tyson Chandler and Brendan Haywood played outstanding defense at the rim, and the rotations in the zone were phenomenal.
With that being said, Westbrook needs to play a lot better if he is going to help his team advance to the Finals. Although Westbrook only took 15 shots, and only a few were questionable looks, he still needs to get his teammates involved. James Harden is a good shooter and playmaker, and should have taken more than 9 shots in 36 minutes against a zone. Durant should have started getting the ball as much as Nowitzki in the fourth quarter. Westbrook needs to get the ball to the right teammate, and earlier in the shot clock. He is doing too much dribbling around the perimeter; either get into the lane or give the ball up.
Westbrook should also take a lesson from Derrick Rose. Prior to this season, Rose was always content to shoot floaters and fadeaways in the lane. This year, he is taking that extra dribble, absorbing contact, and drawing more fouls.
Westbrook does this sometimes. His 18 FT's are evidence that he does get to the line. But if you watched the game, you could tell that he could get to the line even more if he took one extra dribble and got more contact. The Mavericks can't match his speed, and if he learns how to draw more contact, he'll be going to the line even more.
The Thunder need to come up with a better strategy of defending Dirk, because isolation coverage is definitely not working. Maybe the best way would be to front him some possessions and have a quick rotation inside. Mark Jackson's analysis seemed right on the money; OKC has to let Jason Kidd, DeShawn Stevenson, or J.J. Barea beat them with jump shots. But it won't matter much if Westbrook doesn't play better. He must play like the third best player in the series, or Dallas will be heading to the Finals.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Age or beauty?
Contrary to popular belief, the Western Conference didn't stop the playoffs when the Lakers lost. There is a series out west at the same time the Bulls and Heat square off, and it starts tonight. And, thanks to Oprah, it will be the only NBA game on tonight, so there is no excuse not to watch a young, flashy Oklahoma City Thunder team take on the red-hot Dallas Mavericks.
The Thunder got here by being a trendy underdog pick, which makes them not an underdog at all. Although they were a 4 seed, everyone knew going into the playoffs what this team was capable of doing. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook are the second-best pair of teammates in the league behind LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. Almost all of the offense goes through one of these two players. The Thunder are coming off a surprisingly easy series against the Denver Nuggets and a surprisingly difficult series against the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Mavericks pulled off the biggest shocker in the playoffs. It was not just the fact that Dallas defeated the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers; it was how the Lakers were disposed. Dallas swept L.A. out of the playoffs after being tested in the first round by Portland. Continuing their superb play will be a must to advance to their first NBA Finals since 2006.
So, here are the keys to another series that has the potential to be very exciting.
Block Party People hardly ever think of shot-blocking as a potential difference-maker, but here it definitely could be. Oklahoma City likes to play an up-tempo game, especially against a team that doesn't run particularly well like Dallas. The Thunder have one of the best shot-blockers in the game in Serge Ibaka, an athletic monster from Congo. Ibaka is averaging a whopping 3.58 BPG in the playoffs. If Ibaka can get some blocks and keep them in play, it could lead to some transition baskets, which OKC needs to set the tempo.
Durant vs. Nowitzki This is a series that could be decided by the matchup of the stars. If Dallas wants to advance, Nowitzki needs to outperform Durant. That doesn't necessarily mean outscore Durant, but he needs to be more efficient. Dirk could be the hardest guy in the NBA to match up against. A 7 footer with a sweet stroke is almost impossible to guard. He compounds that frustration with the fact that he shoots the fadeaway (a shot most defenders try to force the offensive player into) at such a high percentage. The key is to not allow him to catch the ball where he is comfortable scoring. KD is no slouch himself. The deadliest scorer in the NBA has an arsenal of moves at his disposal, and his ability to shoot the 3 pointer makes him all the more dangerous. Durant will see a host of defenders spend time on him, including the underrated Shawn Marion. That being said, none are as good at guarding the perimeter as the man who guarded Durant in the last series, Tony Allen. The stars will get their points; whoever is more efficient while getting his buckets will give his team a huge boost.
Which Westbrook? Anyone who has watched the Thunder during these playoffs know that Russell Westbrook can be the difference in a series. If he is taking bad shots and outshooting KD by a vast margin, the Thunder are in trouble. If he is making good decisions, taking the drive when it is there, and setting up teammates, the Thunder are very dangerous. The trick in this series is that Westbrook needs to be more aggressive than he needed to be in Memphis. Dallas has no answer for the combination of speed and power that Westbrook presents, and he has to continually break down the Dallas D by getting into the lane. The Mavericks have not seen anyone as quick as Westbrook in the first two series, so it is remains to be seen whether the old team can adjust after Westbrook penetrates. However, Westbrook cannot force the issue too much, and must get teammates involved off the drive. If he forces up bad shots, it will be a huge benefit to Dallas.
Harden vs. Terry Both teams rely on a big boost from their 6th man. Jason Terry is the only player on the Mavericks other than Dirk that can create his own shot. The perennial 6th man of the year candidate is averaging over 18 PPG in the first two rounds of the playoff, and needs to be on the court for Dallas to combat the Thunder's potent offense. If Terry is on the floor, look for the Thunder to counter with James Harden, their dynamic 6th man. Harden is the only Thunder player other than Durant and Westbrook averaging double figures in the playoffs. If Terry is on the floor, playing Harden will force the Mavericks to put an undersized Terry on a scorer in a backcourt of Westbrook and Harden. My guess is he'll guard Harden for a lot of the series, and Harden can shoot right over him. Look for big scoring from both of the 6th men, and, if either doesn't produce, their teams offense will suffer immensely.
Tempo The most important part of this series will be who dictates the tempo. The Mavericks love to slow things down, get the ball to Dirk, and let him do his thing. If all goes well, they get a bucket and are able to set up their defense. The Thunder need to run to win this series. They are younger, faster, more athletic, and much better finishers at the rim. Oklahoma City needs to push the ball constantly to create mismatches on the break. Tempo is a simple thing, but it could be the most important factor in determining this series.
The Thunder got here by being a trendy underdog pick, which makes them not an underdog at all. Although they were a 4 seed, everyone knew going into the playoffs what this team was capable of doing. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook are the second-best pair of teammates in the league behind LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. Almost all of the offense goes through one of these two players. The Thunder are coming off a surprisingly easy series against the Denver Nuggets and a surprisingly difficult series against the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Mavericks pulled off the biggest shocker in the playoffs. It was not just the fact that Dallas defeated the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers; it was how the Lakers were disposed. Dallas swept L.A. out of the playoffs after being tested in the first round by Portland. Continuing their superb play will be a must to advance to their first NBA Finals since 2006.
So, here are the keys to another series that has the potential to be very exciting.
Block Party People hardly ever think of shot-blocking as a potential difference-maker, but here it definitely could be. Oklahoma City likes to play an up-tempo game, especially against a team that doesn't run particularly well like Dallas. The Thunder have one of the best shot-blockers in the game in Serge Ibaka, an athletic monster from Congo. Ibaka is averaging a whopping 3.58 BPG in the playoffs. If Ibaka can get some blocks and keep them in play, it could lead to some transition baskets, which OKC needs to set the tempo.
Durant vs. Nowitzki This is a series that could be decided by the matchup of the stars. If Dallas wants to advance, Nowitzki needs to outperform Durant. That doesn't necessarily mean outscore Durant, but he needs to be more efficient. Dirk could be the hardest guy in the NBA to match up against. A 7 footer with a sweet stroke is almost impossible to guard. He compounds that frustration with the fact that he shoots the fadeaway (a shot most defenders try to force the offensive player into) at such a high percentage. The key is to not allow him to catch the ball where he is comfortable scoring. KD is no slouch himself. The deadliest scorer in the NBA has an arsenal of moves at his disposal, and his ability to shoot the 3 pointer makes him all the more dangerous. Durant will see a host of defenders spend time on him, including the underrated Shawn Marion. That being said, none are as good at guarding the perimeter as the man who guarded Durant in the last series, Tony Allen. The stars will get their points; whoever is more efficient while getting his buckets will give his team a huge boost.
Which Westbrook? Anyone who has watched the Thunder during these playoffs know that Russell Westbrook can be the difference in a series. If he is taking bad shots and outshooting KD by a vast margin, the Thunder are in trouble. If he is making good decisions, taking the drive when it is there, and setting up teammates, the Thunder are very dangerous. The trick in this series is that Westbrook needs to be more aggressive than he needed to be in Memphis. Dallas has no answer for the combination of speed and power that Westbrook presents, and he has to continually break down the Dallas D by getting into the lane. The Mavericks have not seen anyone as quick as Westbrook in the first two series, so it is remains to be seen whether the old team can adjust after Westbrook penetrates. However, Westbrook cannot force the issue too much, and must get teammates involved off the drive. If he forces up bad shots, it will be a huge benefit to Dallas.
Harden vs. Terry Both teams rely on a big boost from their 6th man. Jason Terry is the only player on the Mavericks other than Dirk that can create his own shot. The perennial 6th man of the year candidate is averaging over 18 PPG in the first two rounds of the playoff, and needs to be on the court for Dallas to combat the Thunder's potent offense. If Terry is on the floor, look for the Thunder to counter with James Harden, their dynamic 6th man. Harden is the only Thunder player other than Durant and Westbrook averaging double figures in the playoffs. If Terry is on the floor, playing Harden will force the Mavericks to put an undersized Terry on a scorer in a backcourt of Westbrook and Harden. My guess is he'll guard Harden for a lot of the series, and Harden can shoot right over him. Look for big scoring from both of the 6th men, and, if either doesn't produce, their teams offense will suffer immensely.
Tempo The most important part of this series will be who dictates the tempo. The Mavericks love to slow things down, get the ball to Dirk, and let him do his thing. If all goes well, they get a bucket and are able to set up their defense. The Thunder need to run to win this series. They are younger, faster, more athletic, and much better finishers at the rim. Oklahoma City needs to push the ball constantly to create mismatches on the break. Tempo is a simple thing, but it could be the most important factor in determining this series.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Keys to Bullying the Heat
Alright, Chicago. Take a breath. Enjoy what you saw last night, but, deep down, you know it won't be that easy.
The second half could not have gone any better for the Chicago Bulls and their fans. By clamping down their defense and revving up their offense, the Bulls dominated the Miami Heat and rolled to a 103-82 victory to take a 1-0 series lead.
This game was huge for the Bulls. It was as close to a must-win as it could be in a game 1 of a series between two evenly-matched teams.
Coming in, the Bulls were the ones with the question marks, not the Heat. The Bulls struggled out of the gate against the Indiana Pacers, then got taken to 6 games by the Atlanta Hawks. Carlos Boozer showed up for about 2 games in the first two rounds. Derrick Rose was being asked to do too much. The great defense, the one constant in their dominant regular season, was sporadic. Until Game 6 against the Hawks, the Bulls looked like a team that was meant for the regular season, and that they, along with their 1 seed partner, the San Antonio Spurs, would be watching the NBA Finals instead of playing in them.
Then, after disposing of the Hawks, the questions remained. Was the close-out game against Atlanta the sign of a team breaking out, or simply a mirage?
So, with all the questions, it was imperative Chicago win Game 1 and put the pressure back on Miami. The Bulls did just that, but the game had the makings of an aberration and not the norm.
It is unlikely LeBron James (15 points on 33% shooting) and Dwyane Wade (18 points on 41% shooting) will both be outscored and outperformed by Luol Deng (21 points on 47% shooting). It is even more unlikely that they will combine to take only 3 shots in the fourth quarter.
So, the Bulls won a game. For them to win the series, there is several things the team must do. Here's a list of the top 5...
Dominate the glass The Bulls are the superior rebounding team. That needs to show in order for them to win the series. Joakim Noah, Taj Gibson, Omer Asik and Boozer must exploit the Heat's bigs on the glass and get the Bulls some second chance points. The harder part will be keeping the Heat of the offensive glass. The Bulls will rotate quickly inside to combat LeBron and Wade. Just as important as the initial rotation to help on the drive is the rotation of the weak side player to the paint. This closes off offensive rebounding attempts. Chicago must stop easy putback attempts, or the initial defense will be for naught.
Get Boozer going Carlos Boozer has been the must talked about Bull during the playoffs, and not for good reasons. His ineffectiveness has been a lightning rod for controversy, and several have called for him to be benched for the more athletic Taj Gibson. Although Gibson needs to play well in his role, benching Boozer would be a mistake. Boozer is the only post player the Bulls have that can create his own shot, and the Bulls will need his presence to be felt to win the series. He needs to be dangerous enough to make the Heat's interior defense collapse on him down low, opening things up for Rose and the 3-point shooters.
Hit open 3 point shots Speaking of the 3-point shooters, they need to collectively step up for the Bulls to win this series. One scary thing for Chicago is that Kyle Korver, after playing very well against Indiana, lost his shooting touch against Atlanta. If he is not splashing jump shots with regularity, there is no need for him on the court, as he is a liability on the defensive end. Keith Bogans, Deng, and Korver are all going to get open looks from 3, be it off a Rose drive or an offensive rebound. Knocking down these shots will be crucial, as they can demoralize the Heat and make Erik Spoelstra adjust his defensive strategy.
Limit the Heat's 3 point shooters Just as the Bulls need to get their shooters going, they need to stop the Heat from long range as well. Although the help needs to come rapidly on LeBron and Wade, it should come from the big men inside. The perimeter players should not leave an open shooter. Mike Bibby, Mario Chalmers, and, most importantly, James Jones all know their role in the offense. The Bulls need to take these shooters out of the game, and make LeBron and Wade take most of the 3 pointers for this team. Although they are dynamic scorers, neither one is a prolific jump shooter, and if they are taking 3 pointers, the Bulls can live with that.
Get Deng to score consistently This may be the biggest X-factor of all in what should be a very competitive series. Luol Deng has been the glue guy for this Chicago team all season. He's been asked to be Rose's compliment while Rose is in the game, and to be the go-to guy for the second unit. (Deng has routinely started the second and fourth quarter this season with CJ Watson, Ronnie Brewer, Gibson, and Asik). All of this is expected while he guards the best perimeter player on the opposing team. While he has been under-appreciated by the majority of the Bulls fan base, every person in the locker room knows what Deng means to his team, and he's never been more important than right now. Being the primary defender on LeBron James is a very taxing jobs, and some teams have a defensive specialist with this sole responsibility. The Bulls do not have this luxury. Deng must defend LeBron, but he also has to be the consistent offensive player that he has been the entire season. If he can't do that, the Bulls will be sent packing. If he can, Chicago just may be heading to its first NBA Finals since...well, you know.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Welcome!
This is the sports blog of Donnie Zeno Kolakowski, a Ball State journalism student who just finished his sophomore year of school. Let me tell you a little bit about myself...
I'm from Bolingbrook, IL, making me a suburban Chicago boy. My favorite sport is baseball, and my favorite team is the Cubs, making me one of the many masochists who hopes and prays every single day that they'll put it together one of these years and win a title.
My second favorite team is the Chicago Bulls, and I'm very upset I wasn't old enough to appreciate the Jordan era. Although I liked the team as a little boy, I didn't even begin to appreciate the glory of two three-peats (Do I have to pay Pat Riley for saying that?) in a decade.
My blogging will be about most sports, including basketball, baseball, football, hockey and even some tennis and soccer every once in a while just for fun. Maybe something else will pop up as well. If Gus Johnson announces something else, I'll be there.
Preference for blogging will go to local Chicago sports, but I won't force a story line on you if there isn't one. For instance, I could probably talk about how the Cubs can't hit in the clutch every day for the rest of the season. I'll probably only do it occasionally.
So, please follow me, as I'll post daily (or as close to daily as I can). If you're bored, and are tired of hearing what your friends think they know about sports, please check in and read what Zeno knows.
I'm from Bolingbrook, IL, making me a suburban Chicago boy. My favorite sport is baseball, and my favorite team is the Cubs, making me one of the many masochists who hopes and prays every single day that they'll put it together one of these years and win a title.
My second favorite team is the Chicago Bulls, and I'm very upset I wasn't old enough to appreciate the Jordan era. Although I liked the team as a little boy, I didn't even begin to appreciate the glory of two three-peats (Do I have to pay Pat Riley for saying that?) in a decade.
My blogging will be about most sports, including basketball, baseball, football, hockey and even some tennis and soccer every once in a while just for fun. Maybe something else will pop up as well. If Gus Johnson announces something else, I'll be there.
Preference for blogging will go to local Chicago sports, but I won't force a story line on you if there isn't one. For instance, I could probably talk about how the Cubs can't hit in the clutch every day for the rest of the season. I'll probably only do it occasionally.
So, please follow me, as I'll post daily (or as close to daily as I can). If you're bored, and are tired of hearing what your friends think they know about sports, please check in and read what Zeno knows.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)