Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesIs it too early to be doing this? I mean, we haven't even made it to the Playoffs yet. Aren't we supposed to be looking forward to those first?Of course, if we're talking about LeBron however, this conversation is already two-plus years old!So, let's begin to speculate, prognosticate, and even commiserate with those players not named LeBronmaybe we'll get around to him eventuallywho are facing tough decisions about their future locations.We don't have to limit our conversations concerning these top-flight free Carolina Panthers jersey
agents simply to the teams with loads of offseason cap spaceas sign and trades are certainly always possiblebut we must give them special consideration, as the odds are in their favor to make a big splash.So, with our first installment, we ask the question: "Where'sthe best place for Joe Johnson to wind up by the time this summer is over?" We answer in descending order:1. Atlanta HawksIt's not that I'm opposed to change. Far from it, actually.In this case however, Joe Johnson's smartest choice would be not to mess with the good thing he's already got going.If you're Joe Johnson, why would you want tomove on to a rebuilding team like the Nets and spend a couple of years trying to gain traction? Didn't you just get done doing that in Atlanta?Would you really want to pair up with another superstar in New York, have to become the team's second gun, and probably play on a roster devoid of role players and depth?Why do that when you are the undisputed top dog on your current team, which also happens tofeature some of the most athletic and developed young forwards in the league?Joe Johnson's three position versatility is rightfully going to be a coveted commodity this offseason. However, his skill set has developed alongside a cadre of players who complement each other so well in a hierarchy that is already established.True, there might be a few extra dollars involved to leave, but the actual chances of personal and professionalsuccess are greater alongside the likes of Al Horford, Josh Smith, and Marvin Williams.I would hate to see Joe cash out early onhis investment of the past five seasons. He came to Atlanta during one of the franchise's lowest points. He has been a part of the Hawks' ascension to the NBA's near-elite. Why leave now and miss out on the payoff?2. Chicago BullsCould Joe Johnson thrive as the second fiddle to a LeBron or Dwayne Wade? His versatility and relatively unassuming manner indicate that he very well could.However, as stated above with the Hawks, I believe that Joe Johnson will be most successful asa No. 1 star surrounded by a talented supporting cast of 1a. and near-star players.Like Atlanta, the Chicago Bulls have an intriguing roster that is filled with legitimate near-stars in Luol Deng and Joakim Noah, while also possessing a player in Derrick Rose who could alternate with Joe Johnsonas the lead on a nightly basis.Add Taj Gibson, Kirk Hinrich, and James Johnson as the other Bulls scheduled to return next year, and Chicago could field a very potent eight-man rotation, while filling out the rest of the roster with adequate depth after Joe Johnson's signing.A starting lineup of Rose, Joe Johnson, Deng, Gibson, and Noah would be more than Chicago Bears jersey
athletic and multi-faceted enough to make up for the continuing lack of a post-up player.It's entirely possible that Chicago could still address that lessened need via a trade or reasonable free-agent signing. With Johnson aboard however, a low-post signee no longer needs to be a star-caliber acquisition. Instead,he just has to be a "different look" role player.The Bulls will rightly make a big play for hometown hero Dwayne Wade, but in the event that he opts to go elsewhere, Joe Johnson is a perfect fit to step in and round out a Chicago roster that has always seemed just one piece away.3. Minnesota TimberWolvesI know. I know. You'rewondering whether this is Dr. Trade simply being a homer, since he's one of the five people left in the world who care about the Wolvesand he's writing in third person again...True, teams like New York and New Jersey would give Joe Johnson the spotlight, the ratings, and the exposure, but look again at what Minnesota could potentially flank around him.The T-Wolves horrendous season has been aboutpick-and-roll or off the dribblepegs being forced into a Triangle Offense hole.The bigger problem has been the fact that, despite Al Jefferson's considerable low-post ability, the Wolves do not possess a top-flight player who is capable of carrying them in multiple categories on any given night.Enter Joe Johnson.He is the prototypical swingman whose size, ball-handling, and multi-range shooting skills could make him a perfect fit for Kurt Rambis' variation of the Triangle Offense.Now, Johnny Flynn could attack the basket, while not always having to initiate the offensive cycle.Now, Corey Brewer could do the defensive dirty work for Johnson against the opposition's best wing, while being moved back to his own natural position at the Small Forward spot.Thiswould also allowRyan Gomes' return to a bench role that doesn't ask too much of him.Doing that wouldthen giveMinnesota a much less repulsive second-unit by adding Gomes to the current core of Ramon Sessions and Kevin Love.While this still doesn't answer the Al Jefferson vs. Kevin Love questionbelieve it or not, if he stays, DarkoMilcic actually fixes the problem of whoshould spot minutes at center,but that's another story for a different timeit helps to shore up the wing speed and scoring deficiencies that have plagued the Wolves this year.In a way, that will then help protect Jefferson and Love's dearth of shot-blocking ability.Will Joe Johnson buy into the idea that the Wolves current 15-win roster isn't nearly as hopeless as it looks from the outside? Would he bypass the fame, alternative revenue streams, and slightly less horrendous wintersavailable with a New York or Chicago?You're right, he probably wouldn't.However, Minnesota offers him a 1a. wingman with Al Jefferson, and an underestimated cast of supporting players who would benefit from having a legitimate star carry the burden and return them to more realistic roles.Believe it Cincinnati Bengals jersey
or not,the TimberWolvesand Joe Johnson could mutually benefit to an enormous degree from being paired together. Plus, out of all the available stars this offseason, Johnson would actually be the best fit for the current Wolves' roster.Come on. Let me dream once in a while...- "Dr. Trade"
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 2010 Playoffs: Suns Vs Blazers Preview
Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesOf all the four playoff series in the West, this series will easily be the worst. Surely it would be exciting to watch but a Blazers team without Roy will not succeed in the playoffs, maybe in the regular season but not in the playoffs. The Suns will host the Blazers at the U.S Airways Centre in Phoenix next week.The Suns have been the best team since the all-star break and Amar Stoudemire has ticked on and returned into his old form since the trade deadline passed. He has once again proven why he is the best power Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
forward in the league right now and some even regard him as the Suns MVP, although it is clear to some that Steve Nash is.The bench of the Suns have also played a huge role in their recent regular season run. They have managed to out score opposing bench teams which has helped the Suns win games. I don believe they will slow down come playoff time and especially against the Blazers. Jared Dudley and Channing Frye are the two main guys who provide energy off the bench for the Suns by knocking down threes and Jared Dudley with the amazing hustle on the defensive end which results in easy offensive plays for the team. But then there also Goran Dragic and Louis Amundson who both are great defensive players who help along side Jared Dudley.Given that the Suns will not have Robin Lopez that will be a major problem but not something that would mean all Suns fans lose faith in the Suns for. Itll be a hassle if Marcus Camby does end up being a offensive threat to us but Im sure with Louis Amundson Kansas City Chiefs jersey
on the court then there will be no major problems in containing Marcus Camby.Weve seen what Andre Miller can do on the offensive end and what the outcome of the game will be when he scores high numbers and given that Nash will be guarding him is only bad news for the Suns but that does not mean we will lose. Nash will never play defense or at least a substantial amount of it ever in his career so our only option will be to guard the paint carefully in case Andrew Miller drives the lane.Marcus Camby and Andre Miller may not be Miami Dolphins jersey
the only problems for the Suns in the playoffs. Rudy Fernandez and Jerryd Bayless may become problems if they do go on a shooting streak and make shot and after shot to help get the Blazers back into the game.Overall if the Suns do play defense and contain them from going on huge runs and shooting streaks then the Suns will be safe and will most likely advance to the second round where Robin Lopez will hopefully join them.
forward in the league right now and some even regard him as the Suns MVP, although it is clear to some that Steve Nash is.The bench of the Suns have also played a huge role in their recent regular season run. They have managed to out score opposing bench teams which has helped the Suns win games. I don believe they will slow down come playoff time and especially against the Blazers. Jared Dudley and Channing Frye are the two main guys who provide energy off the bench for the Suns by knocking down threes and Jared Dudley with the amazing hustle on the defensive end which results in easy offensive plays for the team. But then there also Goran Dragic and Louis Amundson who both are great defensive players who help along side Jared Dudley.Given that the Suns will not have Robin Lopez that will be a major problem but not something that would mean all Suns fans lose faith in the Suns for. Itll be a hassle if Marcus Camby does end up being a offensive threat to us but Im sure with Louis Amundson Kansas City Chiefs jersey
on the court then there will be no major problems in containing Marcus Camby.Weve seen what Andre Miller can do on the offensive end and what the outcome of the game will be when he scores high numbers and given that Nash will be guarding him is only bad news for the Suns but that does not mean we will lose. Nash will never play defense or at least a substantial amount of it ever in his career so our only option will be to guard the paint carefully in case Andrew Miller drives the lane.Marcus Camby and Andre Miller may not be Miami Dolphins jersey
the only problems for the Suns in the playoffs. Rudy Fernandez and Jerryd Bayless may become problems if they do go on a shooting streak and make shot and after shot to help get the Blazers back into the game.Overall if the Suns do play defense and contain them from going on huge runs and shooting streaks then the Suns will be safe and will most likely advance to the second round where Robin Lopez will hopefully join them.
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 Chris Bosh: Leaving Quietly Just Wouldn't Make Enough Headlines
Noel Vasquez/Getty ImagesThere are many Raptor fans who've resorted to using the old school girl routine to hide their disappointment with the soon-to-be former Raptor's recent Twitter debacle where he all but admitted that he was leaving in an effort to prompt his fans and followers to suggest to him where he should be going. Bosh's inferiority complex is on full display now. Being talked about as the Robin to LeBron, Joe Johnson or Dwyane Wade's Batman, having Zach Randolph and Amar'e Stoudemire each call him out, having Miami Dolphins jersey
his manhood questioned by Shaquille O'Neal and having New York writers publicly questioning if he was any better than a glorified role player like David Lee are just a few of the many things Bosh has had to deal with in the past 18 months. In fact, Bosh is right to feel slighted and blame his lack of elite status on his perception that the majority of NBA players and beat writers still consider Toronto a second-rate market and an NBA outpost. The truth however is that true superstars shine regardless of where they're playing. Vince Carter was the most popular basketball player in the world for almost four years as a Raptor, Kevin Garnett was considered an elite superstar and future hall-of-famer in one of the NBA's smallest markets in Minnesota. In fact, Deron Williams, John Stockton and Karl Malone had no problem doing it in Salt Lake City of all places. Bosh feels slighted because he feels his resume should speak for itself, and he's right. He's a perennial All-star, a 20-10 threat every time he walks on the court, and he led a team to an Atlantic division title at 23. What Bosh fails to recognize, is that there is more on his resume than he cares to acknowledge. He's the franchise player who allowed Kobe Bryant to score eighty-one points without as much as getting into foul trouble trying to stop him. He's a player who fails to play through injuries, learn how to defend, develop a post-game and has won a grand total of three playoff games in seven years. He's also been a player who's always wilted when his team required the most of him, and a player who's slowly become one of the worst interior defenders in the league. His status as a blooming power-forward ready to fill the shoes of Duncan and Garnett is no more. What he is today is simply a talented player putting up big numbers on a team which hasn't made the playoffs in two years. It's no surprise that players like Zach Randolph and Amar'e Stoudemire haven't hesitated to say they were better players than Minnesota Vikings
Bosh, almost laughing off the suggestion that Bosh was a superstar. It doesn't surprise me that O'Neal essentially called him a drag-queen. Bosh isn't just saving his best for when the world is watching. In his last two trips to the playoffs, he's been anything but spectacular. Bosh has resorted to blaming the team around him, and has done so both tastefully and disrespectfully this season. It seems like the team's struggles are a "we" problem, and when the team is winning, it becomes an "I" solution. Luckily for him, he doesn't have a single Ron Artest, Rasheed Wallace, or Zach Randolph on his team who would retaliate by questioning the leadership of the man who's supposedly nagging injuries, lack of assertion, turnovers. and terrible play over the last 30 games caused the Raptors to drop from fifth to ninth in a terrible Eastern Conference. While most Raptor fans are just now starting to turn on Bosh, I turned on him the minute I saw his true colors in 2006. It was at that point that All-Star votes become more important than winning, making YouTube videos become more important than adding weight in the gym. It was at that point that I realized that Bosh doesn't do the small things, or play solid defense because there is no statistical reward for doing these things. Let's just say my Chris Bosh jersey has been in a box for a long time. Wherever he goes, he'll have about two years before he becomes a bloated contract tied to a completely useless player. He doesn't have the defensive ability or post game to survive once his quickness goes. He essentially becomes Juwan Howard at age 30. I'm not entirely positive about the rest of the league, but I'd think many times before signing on for six years of Chris Bosh when the latter part of those six years is undoubtedly going to give me an aging, oft-injured, one-dimensional jump-shooting big man who may or may not make creative YouTube videos. If I could speak to Bosh, I would not be begging him to stay. I would say nothing New England Patriots jersey
along the lines of "Don't be like Vince". He isn't Vince. He's not even close. That would be a compliment more than anything. Carter has been the number one option for every team he's ever played for at the NBA level. No, to Bosh I would simply say "don't let the door hit you on your way out."
his manhood questioned by Shaquille O'Neal and having New York writers publicly questioning if he was any better than a glorified role player like David Lee are just a few of the many things Bosh has had to deal with in the past 18 months. In fact, Bosh is right to feel slighted and blame his lack of elite status on his perception that the majority of NBA players and beat writers still consider Toronto a second-rate market and an NBA outpost. The truth however is that true superstars shine regardless of where they're playing. Vince Carter was the most popular basketball player in the world for almost four years as a Raptor, Kevin Garnett was considered an elite superstar and future hall-of-famer in one of the NBA's smallest markets in Minnesota. In fact, Deron Williams, John Stockton and Karl Malone had no problem doing it in Salt Lake City of all places. Bosh feels slighted because he feels his resume should speak for itself, and he's right. He's a perennial All-star, a 20-10 threat every time he walks on the court, and he led a team to an Atlantic division title at 23. What Bosh fails to recognize, is that there is more on his resume than he cares to acknowledge. He's the franchise player who allowed Kobe Bryant to score eighty-one points without as much as getting into foul trouble trying to stop him. He's a player who fails to play through injuries, learn how to defend, develop a post-game and has won a grand total of three playoff games in seven years. He's also been a player who's always wilted when his team required the most of him, and a player who's slowly become one of the worst interior defenders in the league. His status as a blooming power-forward ready to fill the shoes of Duncan and Garnett is no more. What he is today is simply a talented player putting up big numbers on a team which hasn't made the playoffs in two years. It's no surprise that players like Zach Randolph and Amar'e Stoudemire haven't hesitated to say they were better players than Minnesota Vikings
Bosh, almost laughing off the suggestion that Bosh was a superstar. It doesn't surprise me that O'Neal essentially called him a drag-queen. Bosh isn't just saving his best for when the world is watching. In his last two trips to the playoffs, he's been anything but spectacular. Bosh has resorted to blaming the team around him, and has done so both tastefully and disrespectfully this season. It seems like the team's struggles are a "we" problem, and when the team is winning, it becomes an "I" solution. Luckily for him, he doesn't have a single Ron Artest, Rasheed Wallace, or Zach Randolph on his team who would retaliate by questioning the leadership of the man who's supposedly nagging injuries, lack of assertion, turnovers. and terrible play over the last 30 games caused the Raptors to drop from fifth to ninth in a terrible Eastern Conference. While most Raptor fans are just now starting to turn on Bosh, I turned on him the minute I saw his true colors in 2006. It was at that point that All-Star votes become more important than winning, making YouTube videos become more important than adding weight in the gym. It was at that point that I realized that Bosh doesn't do the small things, or play solid defense because there is no statistical reward for doing these things. Let's just say my Chris Bosh jersey has been in a box for a long time. Wherever he goes, he'll have about two years before he becomes a bloated contract tied to a completely useless player. He doesn't have the defensive ability or post game to survive once his quickness goes. He essentially becomes Juwan Howard at age 30. I'm not entirely positive about the rest of the league, but I'd think many times before signing on for six years of Chris Bosh when the latter part of those six years is undoubtedly going to give me an aging, oft-injured, one-dimensional jump-shooting big man who may or may not make creative YouTube videos. If I could speak to Bosh, I would not be begging him to stay. I would say nothing New England Patriots jersey
along the lines of "Don't be like Vince". He isn't Vince. He's not even close. That would be a compliment more than anything. Carter has been the number one option for every team he's ever played for at the NBA level. No, to Bosh I would simply say "don't let the door hit you on your way out."
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 Lebron James Rumor Round-Up
Elsa/Getty ImagesSATIRE There currently are a lot of rumors swirling around about LBJ, and I think he would really appreciate it if I took the time todispelthe dumb rumors and give cryptic answers about the true ones.I will be grading rumors on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being not so true and 10 being extremely true.Lebronand Chris Bosh to the Chicago Bulls:8Lebronwants to win and he wants to win now. His best shot at winning a championship immediately is going to Chicago with Chris Bosh. This is where the rumor gets complicated, theReebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
only way both go to Chicago is with one of the two being involved in a sign-and-trade. Bosh has already put Chicago down as a team he is willing to be traded to, and Cleveland would be wise to grab a package involving Luol Deng if LBJ is set on leaving.DelonteWest and Lebron's Mother, Gloria James, have been sleeping together:1This rumor started going around after LBJ lost to the Celtics. Supposedly,Lebronfound out aboutDelonteand his mom after game 4, and this caused a breakdown in team chemistry that directly resulted in the losses to the Celtics. Right, the reasonLebronlost wasn't due to the fact his supporting cast is filled with choke artists and the Celtics played suffocating team D, but becauseDelontewas having secret sex with Lebron's mom. (P.Sgoogle"DelonteWest drives the lane", it accidentally brings up this rumor)This rumor is foolish and it's a result of old men's penchants for chain emails. Seriously, what's so great about a chain email? Chain emails are so antiquated; Now there isFacebook, Twitter,Stumbleupon,Chatroulette, and Textsfromlastnight to get ridiculous messages across theinternet.There are secret bonuses in Lebron's contract that activate if he signs with a big city team:2There don't seem to be any official clauses in his contract, Arizona Cardinals jersey
but that doesn't necessarily mean he couldn't have a super-secret clause hidden in his contract that you can only see with a decoder ring. Sometimes things are hidden in obvious places for a reason. For example, I had no idea that there was a treasure map hidden on the back of the Declaration of Independence until I sawNational Treasure.LebronJames is the man responsible for leaking the newiPhone:2No commentWorldwide Wes is shoppingLebronJames in a package deal with Air Bud:3Though Air Bud would provide more support than Antawn Jamison, I just don't think any team would be willing to put up with the headache both divas would cause.LebronJames will go play Tight End/Slot Receiver in the NFL:5Okso maybe this won't happen, but the reason I gave this rumor a decently high rating is because there is no doubt in my mindLebronJames would be a Hall OfFamerin the NFL. Seriously, he is 6'8'' and would simply beuncoverable. He weighs more than most linebackers and has deep threat speed. Teams would have to use Atlanta Falcons jersey
a lineman to bump him on the line every down because a corner or linebacker trying to jam LBJ would be laughable. LebronJames will team up with Captain America, Iron Man, and Thor to form the Avengers:1IfLebronreally wants to win a championship, this is his best option. This article is also featured onBrashGash
only way both go to Chicago is with one of the two being involved in a sign-and-trade. Bosh has already put Chicago down as a team he is willing to be traded to, and Cleveland would be wise to grab a package involving Luol Deng if LBJ is set on leaving.DelonteWest and Lebron's Mother, Gloria James, have been sleeping together:1This rumor started going around after LBJ lost to the Celtics. Supposedly,Lebronfound out aboutDelonteand his mom after game 4, and this caused a breakdown in team chemistry that directly resulted in the losses to the Celtics. Right, the reasonLebronlost wasn't due to the fact his supporting cast is filled with choke artists and the Celtics played suffocating team D, but becauseDelontewas having secret sex with Lebron's mom. (P.Sgoogle"DelonteWest drives the lane", it accidentally brings up this rumor)This rumor is foolish and it's a result of old men's penchants for chain emails. Seriously, what's so great about a chain email? Chain emails are so antiquated; Now there isFacebook, Twitter,Stumbleupon,Chatroulette, and Textsfromlastnight to get ridiculous messages across theinternet.There are secret bonuses in Lebron's contract that activate if he signs with a big city team:2There don't seem to be any official clauses in his contract, Arizona Cardinals jersey
but that doesn't necessarily mean he couldn't have a super-secret clause hidden in his contract that you can only see with a decoder ring. Sometimes things are hidden in obvious places for a reason. For example, I had no idea that there was a treasure map hidden on the back of the Declaration of Independence until I sawNational Treasure.LebronJames is the man responsible for leaking the newiPhone:2No commentWorldwide Wes is shoppingLebronJames in a package deal with Air Bud:3Though Air Bud would provide more support than Antawn Jamison, I just don't think any team would be willing to put up with the headache both divas would cause.LebronJames will go play Tight End/Slot Receiver in the NFL:5Okso maybe this won't happen, but the reason I gave this rumor a decently high rating is because there is no doubt in my mindLebronJames would be a Hall OfFamerin the NFL. Seriously, he is 6'8'' and would simply beuncoverable. He weighs more than most linebackers and has deep threat speed. Teams would have to use Atlanta Falcons jersey
a lineman to bump him on the line every down because a corner or linebacker trying to jam LBJ would be laughable. LebronJames will team up with Captain America, Iron Man, and Thor to form the Avengers:1IfLebronreally wants to win a championship, this is his best option. This article is also featured onBrashGash
2010年12月25日星期六
The Lakers did not have the large gap of control over this series that was assumed at first glance
Chauncey Billups on his way to MVP, was killing Payton and Fisher or whoever guarded him. Rasheed Wallace was playing huge making big buckets and Ben Wallace was a glass cleaner.What did this all mean?They couldn play these Finals like they did against Philadelphia in 2001, and New Jersey in 2002. This series was actually going to be a contest. They didn perform to their full abilities and they just didn play smart.Following the Finals, it became EGO Trip 2004. Kobe vs. Phil and Shaq, who was going to be choose? It was a Heavyweight showdown and the lightest of the bunch won out. Phil left coaching just as he had in Chicago and Shaq was traded to Miami for Caron Butler, Lamar Odom and Brian Grant.The team and the power would finally belong to Kobe. Rudy Tomjanovich would replace Phil as coach for the following season with Payton and Malone leaving as well.The team under Tomjanovich actually started the season out at a decent state of 24-19. He was forced to leave for health concerns for Frank Hamblen. Under Hamblen, the team went 10-29 and failed to make the Playoffs for the first time in Kobe career. The irritable parts of Kobe showed through their losses. The reemergence of Phil Jackson would show as the Lakers brought him back for their winning ways.Under Jackson the following year, the Lakers would make the Playoffs and take a 3-1 series lead against the Suns following a Kobe game winning jumper. Yet, Kobe couldn motivate his teammates to give support and the Suns would win the next three games. I remember being irate that the leader ofReebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
this team could not take over and carry his team to a win over a three game span.I had seen that ability from Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Kevin Garnett at that time, why not Kobe? He was the killer, the one who had the ability to give the finishing snake bite to the wounded animal. He had once again let me down playing the same ball in the last three games that he did against the Pistons in the 2004 Finals.When Kobe finally got his way and was entering the 04-05 season, Ray Allen was given an interview after the first game of the season. He was speaking to the state of one, Kobe Bryant.He stated this: If Kobe doesn't see he needs two and a half good players to be a legitimate playoff contender or win a championship in about a year or two he'll be calling out to Jerry Buss that 'We need some help in here,' or trade me, and we'll all be saying, 'I told you so,' when he says that." With that thought in mind, we move into the beginning of the 2007-08 season.As the summer was ending and the Lakers were getting ready to come back from another First Round loss, Kobe followed Allen predictions. He began to complain and demand a trade from the Lakers to a team that could win. I was at a loss, this from a man that had been given the keys to the biggest franchise in the NBA and now he wanted to leave?He had forced the hand of every member in the organization to get the team to his state of play and he still wasn happy. It didn matter that he didn leave for the Clippers during this period of Free Agency. Given what he had constructed, there was no reason for him to even consider another team.All the headaches to start the season even had Lakers fans booing him to start the season. People who had backed him for a decade were now getting the short end of the stick.Had Kobe become so narrowed mind he couldn see his personal effect on the team?He eventually decided to stay with the team after they reasoned there was no true reason to trade Kobe. An angry and selfish Kobe wasn that much different than the normal one. As the pain subsided February 3, 2008 showed up.This would be the day the Lakers would essentially steal Pau Gasol away from the Grizzlies for Kwame Brown. The whining would stop from Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Kobe as he had a man to do what Kobe couldn do: be a physical beast. Yes, there is another point I make. Kobe is as tough minded a player as anyone when it comes to basketball, but he is not Charles Oakley on the court.Let face it, Chris Childs showed us that when Kobe tried to fight him in the Great Western Forum, that that was one thing he had no skills in. Kobe is not going to bang the boards and give you great interior defense. He is a great perimeter defender; we cannot mix the two up. I agree he is a top 5 defender in the league, but there are many different ways one can be a great defender.With Pau, the emergence of Andrew Bynum and Phil on the sidelines, the Lakers would return to the Finals. Awaiting them, would be the hungry Boston Celtics. This would be the series that Kobe would truly have the chance to make a claim at being Jordan-esque.This was his first time as the main man in the series. Instead of Magic vs. Michael or Barkley vs. Michael it would be Kobe vs. Garnett. To be honest, I was expecting more from Kobe. I was misinformed that again Kobe would not show up in the Finals. His lack of energy in Game 6 was almost as pathetic as Paul Pierce fake injury in Game One. Another season would go by without a title for Kobe.Finally, Kobe and Pau would lead the Lakers to their first title in seven years. I by this point had lost my love for the Lakers. After almost twenty years of love, Randy Newman tune did not flow with me. I decided to give up on being a supporter of the Lakers at this time. I will not be a fan again until Kobe has left the team. Why after 20 years would I leave? Well, Kobe. Kobe has become the embodiment of the Dallas Cowboys, New York Yankees and now Los Angeles Lakers of the U.S. They are the media darling of each of their sports. With over glorified members on each of their rosters (Kobe, Alex Rodriguez, ANY Dallas Cowboy).He represents the fan that is not truly a fan. He represents that which uses Kobe as a status symbol, and not as a true love of the art of basketball. He represents the pop rap today that is almost as bad as the supposed rap he did to begin the millennium. He revels in who he is and walks with a swagger that does not allow for thought, just acceptance.I for one will not just accept, I will move for change in the game. Hopefully, when Kobe reaches the end of his career and his skills have diminished, he will become whole as a person and take on a new beginning.I have to Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
believe as much as I hate him, that this will be the time Kobe Bryant truly steps up in the Finals. I am not going to accept last years Finals as a true barometer.This time he will be cool and calm I believe as usual.The key difference will be Pau Gasol. He is the man who allowed Kobe his title last year and should be better this time around against Kevin Garnett. If Kobe and Pau get help from their bench, I see the home court being the difference in L.A. winning this series. In the end though, we play the games to see the outcome not just take it as an assumption.
this team could not take over and carry his team to a win over a three game span.I had seen that ability from Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Kevin Garnett at that time, why not Kobe? He was the killer, the one who had the ability to give the finishing snake bite to the wounded animal. He had once again let me down playing the same ball in the last three games that he did against the Pistons in the 2004 Finals.When Kobe finally got his way and was entering the 04-05 season, Ray Allen was given an interview after the first game of the season. He was speaking to the state of one, Kobe Bryant.He stated this: If Kobe doesn't see he needs two and a half good players to be a legitimate playoff contender or win a championship in about a year or two he'll be calling out to Jerry Buss that 'We need some help in here,' or trade me, and we'll all be saying, 'I told you so,' when he says that." With that thought in mind, we move into the beginning of the 2007-08 season.As the summer was ending and the Lakers were getting ready to come back from another First Round loss, Kobe followed Allen predictions. He began to complain and demand a trade from the Lakers to a team that could win. I was at a loss, this from a man that had been given the keys to the biggest franchise in the NBA and now he wanted to leave?He had forced the hand of every member in the organization to get the team to his state of play and he still wasn happy. It didn matter that he didn leave for the Clippers during this period of Free Agency. Given what he had constructed, there was no reason for him to even consider another team.All the headaches to start the season even had Lakers fans booing him to start the season. People who had backed him for a decade were now getting the short end of the stick.Had Kobe become so narrowed mind he couldn see his personal effect on the team?He eventually decided to stay with the team after they reasoned there was no true reason to trade Kobe. An angry and selfish Kobe wasn that much different than the normal one. As the pain subsided February 3, 2008 showed up.This would be the day the Lakers would essentially steal Pau Gasol away from the Grizzlies for Kwame Brown. The whining would stop from Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Kobe as he had a man to do what Kobe couldn do: be a physical beast. Yes, there is another point I make. Kobe is as tough minded a player as anyone when it comes to basketball, but he is not Charles Oakley on the court.Let face it, Chris Childs showed us that when Kobe tried to fight him in the Great Western Forum, that that was one thing he had no skills in. Kobe is not going to bang the boards and give you great interior defense. He is a great perimeter defender; we cannot mix the two up. I agree he is a top 5 defender in the league, but there are many different ways one can be a great defender.With Pau, the emergence of Andrew Bynum and Phil on the sidelines, the Lakers would return to the Finals. Awaiting them, would be the hungry Boston Celtics. This would be the series that Kobe would truly have the chance to make a claim at being Jordan-esque.This was his first time as the main man in the series. Instead of Magic vs. Michael or Barkley vs. Michael it would be Kobe vs. Garnett. To be honest, I was expecting more from Kobe. I was misinformed that again Kobe would not show up in the Finals. His lack of energy in Game 6 was almost as pathetic as Paul Pierce fake injury in Game One. Another season would go by without a title for Kobe.Finally, Kobe and Pau would lead the Lakers to their first title in seven years. I by this point had lost my love for the Lakers. After almost twenty years of love, Randy Newman tune did not flow with me. I decided to give up on being a supporter of the Lakers at this time. I will not be a fan again until Kobe has left the team. Why after 20 years would I leave? Well, Kobe. Kobe has become the embodiment of the Dallas Cowboys, New York Yankees and now Los Angeles Lakers of the U.S. They are the media darling of each of their sports. With over glorified members on each of their rosters (Kobe, Alex Rodriguez, ANY Dallas Cowboy).He represents the fan that is not truly a fan. He represents that which uses Kobe as a status symbol, and not as a true love of the art of basketball. He represents the pop rap today that is almost as bad as the supposed rap he did to begin the millennium. He revels in who he is and walks with a swagger that does not allow for thought, just acceptance.I for one will not just accept, I will move for change in the game. Hopefully, when Kobe reaches the end of his career and his skills have diminished, he will become whole as a person and take on a new beginning.I have to Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
believe as much as I hate him, that this will be the time Kobe Bryant truly steps up in the Finals. I am not going to accept last years Finals as a true barometer.This time he will be cool and calm I believe as usual.The key difference will be Pau Gasol. He is the man who allowed Kobe his title last year and should be better this time around against Kevin Garnett. If Kobe and Pau get help from their bench, I see the home court being the difference in L.A. winning this series. In the end though, we play the games to see the outcome not just take it as an assumption.
25 Dec 10 NBA Free Agents 2010: Breaking Down the Deals Part 2
Chris Graythen/Getty ImagesWith the superstars and pseudo-stars long accounted for, it been nothing but role players, backups, and bench-fillers changing teams the past few weeks. Let examine which minor moves may have major ramifications.Linas Kleiza;Toronto RaptorsKleiza not an outstanding athlete, and don expect much defense, but he can certainly put the ball in the basket. He a stocky player whose best attribute is three-point shooting though he also a strong finisher on the break and after driving along the baseline. With Hedo Turkoglu Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
now in Phoenix, Kleiza will have the first crack at the starting small forward position in Toronto.With the Raptors offensive spacing, he should thrive as a spot-up shooter who would also duck in to the basket from time to time, especially against weaker defenders. With Toronto having such a poor defensive roster, Kleiza defensive weaknesses would become even more exacerbated though.The Raptors would once again field an all-offense, no-defense lineup. Theyd be hoping that the offensive talents of Kleiza and the rest of the roster would overcome their defensive ineptitude. If it didn work with Chris Bosh in tow, why would it work without him?Grade: C+Jordan Farmar;New Jersey NetsFarmar is a good backup who can create his own shot off the dribble, knock down threes and push the pace. He not a particularly effective defender, and he not athletic by NBA point guard standards, but he not a bad decision maker and can create offense in a pinch.Grade: BAnthony Morrow;New Jersey NetsMorrow is a spot-up shooter who doesn do much else.Without Golden State gimmicky offense generating open looks, Morrow would have to hope that Devin Harris drive and kick game can free up open looks.Double-teaming Brook Lopez won necessarily open Morrow up because teams would double off Harris because of his iffy jump shot.Off the bench is where Morrow would be most effective.With Morrow, Jordan Farmar, Terrence Williams, Travis Outlaw, and Kris Humphries, the Nets bench would have some giddy-up.So long as the Nets can get enough stops, Humphries is a good enough rebounder to trigger New Jersey transition game, an attack which should create open looks for Morrow while defenses are trying to stop the ball and protect the basket first and foremost.Morrow also insurance should Courtney Lee suffer through another disappointing season.Grade: BTravis Outlaw;New Jersey NetsOutlaw has mastered a step-back jumper in the half court, and is an athletic specimen in the open court. He even made himself into a respectable three-point shooter. He won pass so he can start, but he can certainly be the featured player off New Jersey bench. Grade: B+Johan Petro;New Jersey NetsPetro is an athletic big man who won embarrass himself, but he isn a disciplined defender, has trouble guarding the post, doesn have any notable offensive skills, and is mistake prone. There are worse third centers in the league, but the more the Nets need Petro, the worse Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
off they become.Grade: DJermaine ONeal;Boston CelticsONeal always has been totally soft on both ends of the court so it a wonder how exactly he fit in with the Celtics.He still a somewhat reliable jump shooter from 16-feet out who loves to face up, take one dribble going left, and then pull-up for the jumper.He also take his left hand to the basket against novice defenders who forget that he plays one-handed.It hard to run screen/fades with ONeal because he such a poor screen-setter. Plus, aside from a few games a month, ONeal is strictly a turnaround jump shooter in the post.As such, Boston will probably use him as a safety valve baseline jump shooter, much the way P.J. Brown strictly shot jumpers from the baseline during Boston 2008 title run.It odd that such a fragile player, and one with a notorious history of being a postseason dud (and who can forget his robust 21% shooting percentage against Boston last with the Heat last postseason) was signed by a team that builds its roster for deep playoff runs.At least when Kendrick Perkins returns from injury, ONeal will be relegated to the bench.Grade: D+Wesley Matthews;Portland Trail BlazersMatthews plays solid positional defense, is a capable shooter, and has a tremendous basketball IQ.If he not adept at creating his own shot, Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Andre Miller take up the bulk of the scoring responsibilities for the Blazers.Matthews will be a designated stopper as their main perimeter defender and will work without the ball to generate offense. The Blazers hope Matthews can develop into a long term defensive ace they can plug at small forward. Nicolas Batum isn quick enough to defend two-guards the way Matthews can, and Matthews is a more-well rounded offensive player.However, Portland also wants to win a playoff series this year.Given how Matthews had some measure of success containing Carmelo Anthony, and how Portland interior defense is much better than last year Utah squad, the Blazers should once again field an effective defensive team. The Blazers are still low on perimeter players who can create their own jump shooting, something only Roy and Jerryd Bayless (in streaks) are adept at.Will Matthews presence supply enough offense for the Blazers to advance in the postseason?Grade: BHilton Armstrong;Washington WizardsArmstrong can block a shot or two, but he a weak, foul-prone, inadequate defender with limited offensive skills. The Wizards already have to deal with JaVale McGee growing pains and Andray Blatche immaturity, why didn they target a more veteran presence as a third center?Grade: FQuentin Richardson;Orlando MagicRichardson was given a small role on the Heat last year and produced the most efficient season of his career.He be asked to fill a similar role with Miami as a small forward who won play more than 30 minutes a game but can stretch the floor with three-point shooting while Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
working hard on defense.Q-Rich also has some post up skills that can be put to use against select opponents.Richardson will effectively be replacing Matt Barnes as Orlando starting small forward.Barnes covers more ground than Richardson as he a step quicker and a better jumper. Because of this the Magic can expect a drop off in their ability to get layups in transition and a drop off in their defense.On the other hand, Richardson is a much better shooter than Barnes so Orlando spacing and half court offense will see a boost.Is he quick enough to force LeBron James or Dwyane Wade into designated help assignments? Is he big enough to contain James and Paul Pierce? Ultimately Richardon won be a difference maker.Grade: CTony Allen;Memphis GrizzliesAllen is one of the best on-ball defenders in basketball.He strong enough to get into an opponent kitchen, directing the offensive player to one direction, and he quick enough to keep pace with even the fastest scorers.His top-notch athleticism also makes him a menace in passing lanes which will create fast break opportunities for the young Grizzlies.Allen athleticism allows him to finish on the break, and he an excellent baseline runner in the half court, but his shooting is atrocious, and he can handle or pass.Fortunately, the Grizzlies have a world of offensive talent to alleviate Allen offensive flaws, and he provides the kind of top-flight defender the Grizzlies have lacked since Shane Battier was traded for Rudy Gay.The Grizzlies needed defense to have serious designs of making the playoffs, and they acquired one of the best defenders out there. A win-win.Grade: ADorell Wright;Golden State WarriorsWright is a good athlete who can shoot, handle, and create. He thrive playing alongside Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry, and like any competent offensive player in Golden State, you can expect big numbers.Sadly, Wright has the potential to develop into a good defender with his good combination of size and quickness, but still made too many mistakes based on not paying attention to detail. With Golden State, expect Wright defensive potential to go unrealized.Grade: BJosh Childress;Phoenix SunsChildress is a really versatile player who can do a number of different things.He has size, speed and handles so he can get to the basket and create off the dribble, plus he can knock down perimeter jumpers.Defensively, his huge wingspan allows him to swoop into passing lanes to end up with a host of deflections and steals. Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
Playing alongside Steve Nash will allow Childress to simply use his athleticism to find easy baskets because if Childress is open, Nash will find him.Plus, Childress shoots well enough to keep Phoenix spacing on high screen/rolls. His rangy, disruptive defense ties into what Phoenix likes to do, as the steals he picks up will be converted into fast break opportunities. He the right player for the right team.Grade: A-Ian Mahinmi;Dallas MavericksMahinmi is an athletic project big, who has good measurable, but hasn developed a go-to offensive move, and can defend without fouling. With two veteran centers on the roster, Mahinmi will have a pair of tutors to try and speed up his development.Grade: B-Sheldon Williams;Denver NuggetsWilliams can catch a cold, gets bullied under the basket, doesn move well, and is just about useless during any meaningful stretch of action.He was an unmitigated disaster for the Celtics during the course of last season, and won provide any substantial boost to Denver this season. If the game is close and Williams is in, the Nuggets are in trouble.Grade: FAl Harrington;Denver NuggetsHarrington can score off the dribble, will drill three-pointers, rarely moves without the ball, doesn play defense, and lets his emotions get the best of him when a game hangs in the balance.In other words, he more of what the Nuggets have and don really need. Couldn Denver stock up on some role players who can do the dirty work on defense, or some players who won lose their heads when a game begins to slip from their grasps? What need do they have for another shot-happy offensive player?Grade: D-Mike Miller;Miami HeatMiller is an extremely accurate long distance shooter who will thrive off of the penetrations of Dwyane Wade and LeBron James.He a veteran who knows how to move without the ball to get himself open, is totally unselfish, and is better than most spot-up gunners at creating his own offense and getting to the rim. In this case, he not one-dimensional which opens up more opportunities for Miami offense, and hed provide some measure of insurance should LeBron or especially Wade suffer a serious injury. Miller not a particularly effective defensive player, but with LeBron and Wade defensive capabilities, Miller would probably defend the opponent weakest offensive wing anyway. A perfect signing for a talented complementary player.Grade: A+Zydrunas Ilgauskas;Miami HeatAs Zyggy Il ages, his ability to play effective basketball diminishes exponentially. Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
Ilgauskas can still occasionally hit a turnaround jumper over a shorter defender, but his offensive game now consists squarely of being an average mid-range jump shooter, and dropping in putbacks.His defense is worse.Because Ilgauskas is basically shackled to the floor, opponents will always have success attacking Ilgauskas with a quick move, or forcing him to make a quick rotation.At least Ilgauskas is big enough to be a one-man wall when opponents attack the paint, but he a complete defensive liability.Ilgauskas can still have some success as a part-time backup off the bench, but he not a championship-caliber starting player. Grade: D+Juwan Howard;Miami HeatAs Howard NBA career winds down, he more important in the locker room than on the court, as his experience, work ethic, and professionalism are his best qualities.He a respectable team defender, who knows where to be on the court, and he won make many mistakes. He not the worst third string power forward.Grade: CRaja Bell;Utah JazzBell can still play rugged defense, but he lost a step from his Phoenix days and isn the stopper he used to be.He still get under opponents skin though, in many ways allowing weak-minded opponents to beat themselves. However, for a Jazz team which needs to get better defensively, Bell won be a huge upgrade.Offensively, Bell has the toughness to set good screens, the stroke to hit mid-range and long-range jumpers, and the smarts to move without the ball to find open shots. In other words, he a perfect fit as a backup for Utah flex offense.Grade: B-Keyon Dooling;Milwaukee BucksDooling is a lithe, quick point guard who can pressure the ball on defense and knock down jumpers on offense.Scott Skiles loves point guards who can apply full court ball pressure, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
and Dooling will be a defensive upgrade over Brandon Jennings and last year backup, Luke Ridnour.Dooling can also create offense in a broken field which is always a plus. The Bucks are in trouble if Dooling is pressed to start, but he a good backup who fit in nicely in Milwaukee.Grade: B+
now in Phoenix, Kleiza will have the first crack at the starting small forward position in Toronto.With the Raptors offensive spacing, he should thrive as a spot-up shooter who would also duck in to the basket from time to time, especially against weaker defenders. With Toronto having such a poor defensive roster, Kleiza defensive weaknesses would become even more exacerbated though.The Raptors would once again field an all-offense, no-defense lineup. Theyd be hoping that the offensive talents of Kleiza and the rest of the roster would overcome their defensive ineptitude. If it didn work with Chris Bosh in tow, why would it work without him?Grade: C+Jordan Farmar;New Jersey NetsFarmar is a good backup who can create his own shot off the dribble, knock down threes and push the pace. He not a particularly effective defender, and he not athletic by NBA point guard standards, but he not a bad decision maker and can create offense in a pinch.Grade: BAnthony Morrow;New Jersey NetsMorrow is a spot-up shooter who doesn do much else.Without Golden State gimmicky offense generating open looks, Morrow would have to hope that Devin Harris drive and kick game can free up open looks.Double-teaming Brook Lopez won necessarily open Morrow up because teams would double off Harris because of his iffy jump shot.Off the bench is where Morrow would be most effective.With Morrow, Jordan Farmar, Terrence Williams, Travis Outlaw, and Kris Humphries, the Nets bench would have some giddy-up.So long as the Nets can get enough stops, Humphries is a good enough rebounder to trigger New Jersey transition game, an attack which should create open looks for Morrow while defenses are trying to stop the ball and protect the basket first and foremost.Morrow also insurance should Courtney Lee suffer through another disappointing season.Grade: BTravis Outlaw;New Jersey NetsOutlaw has mastered a step-back jumper in the half court, and is an athletic specimen in the open court. He even made himself into a respectable three-point shooter. He won pass so he can start, but he can certainly be the featured player off New Jersey bench. Grade: B+Johan Petro;New Jersey NetsPetro is an athletic big man who won embarrass himself, but he isn a disciplined defender, has trouble guarding the post, doesn have any notable offensive skills, and is mistake prone. There are worse third centers in the league, but the more the Nets need Petro, the worse Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
off they become.Grade: DJermaine ONeal;Boston CelticsONeal always has been totally soft on both ends of the court so it a wonder how exactly he fit in with the Celtics.He still a somewhat reliable jump shooter from 16-feet out who loves to face up, take one dribble going left, and then pull-up for the jumper.He also take his left hand to the basket against novice defenders who forget that he plays one-handed.It hard to run screen/fades with ONeal because he such a poor screen-setter. Plus, aside from a few games a month, ONeal is strictly a turnaround jump shooter in the post.As such, Boston will probably use him as a safety valve baseline jump shooter, much the way P.J. Brown strictly shot jumpers from the baseline during Boston 2008 title run.It odd that such a fragile player, and one with a notorious history of being a postseason dud (and who can forget his robust 21% shooting percentage against Boston last with the Heat last postseason) was signed by a team that builds its roster for deep playoff runs.At least when Kendrick Perkins returns from injury, ONeal will be relegated to the bench.Grade: D+Wesley Matthews;Portland Trail BlazersMatthews plays solid positional defense, is a capable shooter, and has a tremendous basketball IQ.If he not adept at creating his own shot, Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Andre Miller take up the bulk of the scoring responsibilities for the Blazers.Matthews will be a designated stopper as their main perimeter defender and will work without the ball to generate offense. The Blazers hope Matthews can develop into a long term defensive ace they can plug at small forward. Nicolas Batum isn quick enough to defend two-guards the way Matthews can, and Matthews is a more-well rounded offensive player.However, Portland also wants to win a playoff series this year.Given how Matthews had some measure of success containing Carmelo Anthony, and how Portland interior defense is much better than last year Utah squad, the Blazers should once again field an effective defensive team. The Blazers are still low on perimeter players who can create their own jump shooting, something only Roy and Jerryd Bayless (in streaks) are adept at.Will Matthews presence supply enough offense for the Blazers to advance in the postseason?Grade: BHilton Armstrong;Washington WizardsArmstrong can block a shot or two, but he a weak, foul-prone, inadequate defender with limited offensive skills. The Wizards already have to deal with JaVale McGee growing pains and Andray Blatche immaturity, why didn they target a more veteran presence as a third center?Grade: FQuentin Richardson;Orlando MagicRichardson was given a small role on the Heat last year and produced the most efficient season of his career.He be asked to fill a similar role with Miami as a small forward who won play more than 30 minutes a game but can stretch the floor with three-point shooting while Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
working hard on defense.Q-Rich also has some post up skills that can be put to use against select opponents.Richardson will effectively be replacing Matt Barnes as Orlando starting small forward.Barnes covers more ground than Richardson as he a step quicker and a better jumper. Because of this the Magic can expect a drop off in their ability to get layups in transition and a drop off in their defense.On the other hand, Richardson is a much better shooter than Barnes so Orlando spacing and half court offense will see a boost.Is he quick enough to force LeBron James or Dwyane Wade into designated help assignments? Is he big enough to contain James and Paul Pierce? Ultimately Richardon won be a difference maker.Grade: CTony Allen;Memphis GrizzliesAllen is one of the best on-ball defenders in basketball.He strong enough to get into an opponent kitchen, directing the offensive player to one direction, and he quick enough to keep pace with even the fastest scorers.His top-notch athleticism also makes him a menace in passing lanes which will create fast break opportunities for the young Grizzlies.Allen athleticism allows him to finish on the break, and he an excellent baseline runner in the half court, but his shooting is atrocious, and he can handle or pass.Fortunately, the Grizzlies have a world of offensive talent to alleviate Allen offensive flaws, and he provides the kind of top-flight defender the Grizzlies have lacked since Shane Battier was traded for Rudy Gay.The Grizzlies needed defense to have serious designs of making the playoffs, and they acquired one of the best defenders out there. A win-win.Grade: ADorell Wright;Golden State WarriorsWright is a good athlete who can shoot, handle, and create. He thrive playing alongside Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry, and like any competent offensive player in Golden State, you can expect big numbers.Sadly, Wright has the potential to develop into a good defender with his good combination of size and quickness, but still made too many mistakes based on not paying attention to detail. With Golden State, expect Wright defensive potential to go unrealized.Grade: BJosh Childress;Phoenix SunsChildress is a really versatile player who can do a number of different things.He has size, speed and handles so he can get to the basket and create off the dribble, plus he can knock down perimeter jumpers.Defensively, his huge wingspan allows him to swoop into passing lanes to end up with a host of deflections and steals. Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
Playing alongside Steve Nash will allow Childress to simply use his athleticism to find easy baskets because if Childress is open, Nash will find him.Plus, Childress shoots well enough to keep Phoenix spacing on high screen/rolls. His rangy, disruptive defense ties into what Phoenix likes to do, as the steals he picks up will be converted into fast break opportunities. He the right player for the right team.Grade: A-Ian Mahinmi;Dallas MavericksMahinmi is an athletic project big, who has good measurable, but hasn developed a go-to offensive move, and can defend without fouling. With two veteran centers on the roster, Mahinmi will have a pair of tutors to try and speed up his development.Grade: B-Sheldon Williams;Denver NuggetsWilliams can catch a cold, gets bullied under the basket, doesn move well, and is just about useless during any meaningful stretch of action.He was an unmitigated disaster for the Celtics during the course of last season, and won provide any substantial boost to Denver this season. If the game is close and Williams is in, the Nuggets are in trouble.Grade: FAl Harrington;Denver NuggetsHarrington can score off the dribble, will drill three-pointers, rarely moves without the ball, doesn play defense, and lets his emotions get the best of him when a game hangs in the balance.In other words, he more of what the Nuggets have and don really need. Couldn Denver stock up on some role players who can do the dirty work on defense, or some players who won lose their heads when a game begins to slip from their grasps? What need do they have for another shot-happy offensive player?Grade: D-Mike Miller;Miami HeatMiller is an extremely accurate long distance shooter who will thrive off of the penetrations of Dwyane Wade and LeBron James.He a veteran who knows how to move without the ball to get himself open, is totally unselfish, and is better than most spot-up gunners at creating his own offense and getting to the rim. In this case, he not one-dimensional which opens up more opportunities for Miami offense, and hed provide some measure of insurance should LeBron or especially Wade suffer a serious injury. Miller not a particularly effective defensive player, but with LeBron and Wade defensive capabilities, Miller would probably defend the opponent weakest offensive wing anyway. A perfect signing for a talented complementary player.Grade: A+Zydrunas Ilgauskas;Miami HeatAs Zyggy Il ages, his ability to play effective basketball diminishes exponentially. Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
Ilgauskas can still occasionally hit a turnaround jumper over a shorter defender, but his offensive game now consists squarely of being an average mid-range jump shooter, and dropping in putbacks.His defense is worse.Because Ilgauskas is basically shackled to the floor, opponents will always have success attacking Ilgauskas with a quick move, or forcing him to make a quick rotation.At least Ilgauskas is big enough to be a one-man wall when opponents attack the paint, but he a complete defensive liability.Ilgauskas can still have some success as a part-time backup off the bench, but he not a championship-caliber starting player. Grade: D+Juwan Howard;Miami HeatAs Howard NBA career winds down, he more important in the locker room than on the court, as his experience, work ethic, and professionalism are his best qualities.He a respectable team defender, who knows where to be on the court, and he won make many mistakes. He not the worst third string power forward.Grade: CRaja Bell;Utah JazzBell can still play rugged defense, but he lost a step from his Phoenix days and isn the stopper he used to be.He still get under opponents skin though, in many ways allowing weak-minded opponents to beat themselves. However, for a Jazz team which needs to get better defensively, Bell won be a huge upgrade.Offensively, Bell has the toughness to set good screens, the stroke to hit mid-range and long-range jumpers, and the smarts to move without the ball to find open shots. In other words, he a perfect fit as a backup for Utah flex offense.Grade: B-Keyon Dooling;Milwaukee BucksDooling is a lithe, quick point guard who can pressure the ball on defense and knock down jumpers on offense.Scott Skiles loves point guards who can apply full court ball pressure, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
and Dooling will be a defensive upgrade over Brandon Jennings and last year backup, Luke Ridnour.Dooling can also create offense in a broken field which is always a plus. The Bucks are in trouble if Dooling is pressed to start, but he a good backup who fit in nicely in Milwaukee.Grade: B+
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 Sorry Miami: The Boston Celtics Big Three Was Never an NBA Superteam
Superteam, No. Just damn good.Ronald Martinez/Getty Images This summer a trio of superstars came together in a free agent coup that has changed the face of the modern NBA. The teaming of 3 certified superstars of the game is certainly a gigantic news story. Some fans have embraced what ESPN has dubbed "Miami Thrice," while plenty of others have taken a very negative view of the move. And just like American Presidential elections, these opinions are generally split along party lines. Heat fans are on one side ofPhiladelphia Eagles jersey
the aisle (guess which) and most (not all) of the NBA's other fans occupy the other. Also from the world of politics has come the emergence of "talking points" that Miami's fans have used to deflect criticism both warranted and not. My research will debunk at least one aspect of their argument. And here are the questions I aim to answer. Is there precedent in the modern NBA for such a dramatic free agent team-up, or are King James and company treading new ground? And if that precedent exists, did Boston create the first "Superteam" when they paired Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett with Paul Pierce in 2007? It's the most credible sounding counterpoint to the anti-Heat crowd, which states that Boston's big three was the original shot across the bow when it came to star hoarding. After all, on the surface, there would appear to be similarities to how these teams were assembled. Is there precedent in the modern NBA for such a dramatic free agent team-up, or are King James and company treading new ground? Before we get to the details, its important to set the criteria. Instead of lumping the entire disjointed history of the league into this discussion, I have decided to only include the modern era as a source of investigation. This current period began the day that Shaquille O'Neal announced he was leaving the Orlando Magic for the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996. That decision clearly was a game-changer, and jolted the NBA into the realization that free agency was a powerful tool. Despite all of the salary incentives in place for stars to stay with the home team, it would not prevent everyone from testing the market. In the absence of Michael Jordan, who was playing minor league baseball at the time, Shaq was the biggest star in Basketball. Because of his current refusal to retire on anyone else's terms but his own, it seems easy to forget how dominant O'Neal was in his youth. While other stars had left via trade or signed as free agents past their primes, no one of his caliber had ever just simply left town over the Summer. Go ahead and take the cushions off your couch and see what you find. Even if its a ball of lint and a TVguide, that would be more than Orlando got in return for the man that they groomed into stardom from the day they drafted him 4 years prior. Shaq Fu started to look a lot like Shaq F-U in the wake of his departure to the bright lights of Los Angeles. Needless to say, it was a bit unsettling. Every front office in the Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
sport took notice. This Better Work FellasChris Graythen/Getty Images This move obviously caused a shift in the team power rankings, but more significant was the cultural shift in how business would be done. Players began to wield a bit more leverage due to the threat of just picking up and leaving the day that they are no longer contractually obligated. Owners and GM's alternately were forced to ponder trading their stars rather than risk gaining nothing in return. It signaled the beginning of a new era where star players changing uniforms was no longer uncommon. The 15 year period that leads up to the current 2010-2011 season is what I will deem the modern era. Despite the new reality of doing business in the league, it takes little more than a quick glance to realize that over that period of time there was really only one team that was created in a similarly dramatic and immediate fashion to the present Miami Heat team. The Boston Celtics were given a wildly successful face-lift during the 2007 off-season. The preceding year saw the squad finish a dismal 24-58, which was good (or bad) enough to secure the 2nd worst record in the league. Paul Pierce, their lone star was injured for significant stretches leaving a void in talent that was unable to be filled. So while Dwyane Wade was putting the finishing touches on an NBA title for his South Beach admirers that very season, the once proud Celtics were sinking into oblivion. Changes were on the way. On June 28th, 2007 things began to get interesting. The former SuperSonics dealt Ray Allen, Glen Davis and the 35th pick in the upcoming draft to the Celts for Delonte West, Wally Szczerbiak, and Jeff Green. Not a bad start. Were the Allen, Garnett, and Pierce San Diego Chargers jersey
Celtics ever a Superteam?Were the Allen, Garnett, and Pierce Celtics ever a Superteam?Yes54.9%No32.1%There are no Superteams13.0%Total votes: 607 Almost a month later, an equally important trade brought perennial all-star Kevin Garnett to the club from the lowly Timberwolves. Al Jefferson,Ryan Gomes,Sebastian Telfair,Gerald Green, andTheo Ratliffwere all jettisoned to Minnesota, along with cash considerations. In hindsight, that was like trading 5 bags of Cheetos and a gift certificate to Olive Garden for a Rolls Royce. And Lest we not forget that this club did not have to give up its emerging talented point guard, Rajon Rondo. Already the comparison to the Miami unit is becoming a bit muddled. These improvements were strictly a result of trades. Thats a far cry from the methods utilized by the Heat. As we all know, Lebron James and Chris Bosh signed via free agency. While Boston had to give something to get something, Miami's challenge was to clear enough cap space for two superstars while sending D-Wade out to close the deal. Both were effective tools, but even to the unbiased observer, one strategy clearly took more effort and savvy in order to execute. I hope no one considers clearing cap space with a full two years notice some sort of achievement. Every single team that had a chance this year at landing James was able to accomplish that feat. (Chicago, New Jersey, New York, Miami, the LA Clippers.) It's also a pretty easy proposition when you are aware (like the Heat was most likely) what was going to happen in the end. There is a reason that Stephen A. Smith broke the story long before the announcement. More than just Lebron knew. But the differences don't end there. There is also a pretty decent disparity in talent obtained by the teams in their breakout offseasons. The biggest current knock on Boston's chances at reaching the finals again is the overall age of the team. All three of their stars are on the downslope of San Francisco 49ers jersey
their careers. But even in their prime years, which would include the season before their blockbuster team-up, 2006-2007 the trio of Wade, Lebron, and Bosh were statistically a better group. What makes it more imposing is that all three young future Heat teammates were still improving at the time. Let's crunch the numbers. Lebron James was leading his team almost singlehandedly and averaging 27.3 points per game on his way to a Finals berth. This also included playing the point on many occasions and racking up assists as well (6.0 per game.) Even more astounding is that Dwyane Wade was only half of the offensive one-punch of Miami's squad and still averaged 27.4 points per game, putting him only behind Kobe Bryant (31.6 ppg) that year in scoring. It's a pretty safe bet that he relinquished a decent amount of the points that he could have scored to Shaq in the name of teamwork. Even the least talented of the three, Chris Bosh was averaging 22.6 points per game AND 10.7 rebounds, which puts him above Garnett in scoring (22.4) and marginally below him in rebounds (12.8.) So essentially, Miami's least talented star player who was still developing was almost as good as the most talented Boston player (Garnett) who was in his prime. Ray Allen scored at a rate of 26.4 points per game, placing him below King James and D-Wade. Paul Pierce averaged 25 points per game, once again only surpassing Bosh's totals. Even if you take into account the fact that Garnett's dominating defense does not always adhere itself to concrete stats, its pretty obvious that Lebron was the better player in a head to head matchup of top talents even back then. He was averaging more assists than most point guards, scoring Seattle Seahawks jersey
at an incredibly high level and was no slouch on defense either. Garnett may have been a beast, but still not in Lebron's league. Let's discuss the performances of the two trios when it comes to playoff time. Dwyane Wade has already shown a deft ability to shine in the post season and also has a ring on his finger. Lebron has amassed some pretty impressive playoff numbers over his career. He even willed a subpar (at best) team into the championship series against the Spurs in 2007. In the Eastern Conference finals against the favored Detroit, I think we all remember him scoring 48 points and 29 0f 30 of his teams last points in a comeback win in game 5. Marv Albert called it a "historic performance."Everyone seems to only remember his playoff performance this year which was outstanding, but not clutch. Not to mention there was most likely an elbow issue affecting him. But even if not, that wasn't really representative of his postseason career. Ray Allen is generally a cold-blooded assassin in the playoffs. No one is a better pure shooter. But he is prone to some erratic games. Remember his zero field goal performance right after his brilliant game in the Finals this year? Bosh does not have a big enough sample survey to judge him. Although post players who take more high percentage shots seem to have more dependable and non fluctuating stats. Garnett is known for upping his game just a bit during crucial times. Once again, numbers don't tell the defensive whiz's full story. All in all, it appears that both units are pretty even when it comes to the intangibles of the postseason. So even that does not go in the Celtic's favor when compared side by side. The picture is getting pretty clear. Even when the future Heat stars had not reached their full potential, the combination of the three was better than Boston's future three in the primes of their respective careers. That even includes the playoffs. And back to my earlier point, the Celts were created, much like the Kobe Bryant Lakers, through good trades and intelligent management. If this does not dispel all the talk of the Celtics creating the first "superteam," then there is nothing that will. Don't get me wrong. Its not as if you can fault Pat Riley for taking advantage of an opportunity that fell in his lap. Or even Dwayne Wade for inviting his buddies to the hometown team. But I think we can put to rest any kind of chatter that Miami was just doing what other teams have done in the past. NotSt. Louis Rams jersey
even close. I think its become pretty apparent that if this team fails, it will fail "historically." A new precedent has been set, and barring injuries, there is no excuse for leaving the playoffs without a title.** Here is another article of mine that goes along well with this one. It involves Kobe Bryant in relation to the Miami Superteam
the aisle (guess which) and most (not all) of the NBA's other fans occupy the other. Also from the world of politics has come the emergence of "talking points" that Miami's fans have used to deflect criticism both warranted and not. My research will debunk at least one aspect of their argument. And here are the questions I aim to answer. Is there precedent in the modern NBA for such a dramatic free agent team-up, or are King James and company treading new ground? And if that precedent exists, did Boston create the first "Superteam" when they paired Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett with Paul Pierce in 2007? It's the most credible sounding counterpoint to the anti-Heat crowd, which states that Boston's big three was the original shot across the bow when it came to star hoarding. After all, on the surface, there would appear to be similarities to how these teams were assembled. Is there precedent in the modern NBA for such a dramatic free agent team-up, or are King James and company treading new ground? Before we get to the details, its important to set the criteria. Instead of lumping the entire disjointed history of the league into this discussion, I have decided to only include the modern era as a source of investigation. This current period began the day that Shaquille O'Neal announced he was leaving the Orlando Magic for the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996. That decision clearly was a game-changer, and jolted the NBA into the realization that free agency was a powerful tool. Despite all of the salary incentives in place for stars to stay with the home team, it would not prevent everyone from testing the market. In the absence of Michael Jordan, who was playing minor league baseball at the time, Shaq was the biggest star in Basketball. Because of his current refusal to retire on anyone else's terms but his own, it seems easy to forget how dominant O'Neal was in his youth. While other stars had left via trade or signed as free agents past their primes, no one of his caliber had ever just simply left town over the Summer. Go ahead and take the cushions off your couch and see what you find. Even if its a ball of lint and a TVguide, that would be more than Orlando got in return for the man that they groomed into stardom from the day they drafted him 4 years prior. Shaq Fu started to look a lot like Shaq F-U in the wake of his departure to the bright lights of Los Angeles. Needless to say, it was a bit unsettling. Every front office in the Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
sport took notice. This Better Work FellasChris Graythen/Getty Images This move obviously caused a shift in the team power rankings, but more significant was the cultural shift in how business would be done. Players began to wield a bit more leverage due to the threat of just picking up and leaving the day that they are no longer contractually obligated. Owners and GM's alternately were forced to ponder trading their stars rather than risk gaining nothing in return. It signaled the beginning of a new era where star players changing uniforms was no longer uncommon. The 15 year period that leads up to the current 2010-2011 season is what I will deem the modern era. Despite the new reality of doing business in the league, it takes little more than a quick glance to realize that over that period of time there was really only one team that was created in a similarly dramatic and immediate fashion to the present Miami Heat team. The Boston Celtics were given a wildly successful face-lift during the 2007 off-season. The preceding year saw the squad finish a dismal 24-58, which was good (or bad) enough to secure the 2nd worst record in the league. Paul Pierce, their lone star was injured for significant stretches leaving a void in talent that was unable to be filled. So while Dwyane Wade was putting the finishing touches on an NBA title for his South Beach admirers that very season, the once proud Celtics were sinking into oblivion. Changes were on the way. On June 28th, 2007 things began to get interesting. The former SuperSonics dealt Ray Allen, Glen Davis and the 35th pick in the upcoming draft to the Celts for Delonte West, Wally Szczerbiak, and Jeff Green. Not a bad start. Were the Allen, Garnett, and Pierce San Diego Chargers jersey
Celtics ever a Superteam?Were the Allen, Garnett, and Pierce Celtics ever a Superteam?Yes54.9%No32.1%There are no Superteams13.0%Total votes: 607 Almost a month later, an equally important trade brought perennial all-star Kevin Garnett to the club from the lowly Timberwolves. Al Jefferson,Ryan Gomes,Sebastian Telfair,Gerald Green, andTheo Ratliffwere all jettisoned to Minnesota, along with cash considerations. In hindsight, that was like trading 5 bags of Cheetos and a gift certificate to Olive Garden for a Rolls Royce. And Lest we not forget that this club did not have to give up its emerging talented point guard, Rajon Rondo. Already the comparison to the Miami unit is becoming a bit muddled. These improvements were strictly a result of trades. Thats a far cry from the methods utilized by the Heat. As we all know, Lebron James and Chris Bosh signed via free agency. While Boston had to give something to get something, Miami's challenge was to clear enough cap space for two superstars while sending D-Wade out to close the deal. Both were effective tools, but even to the unbiased observer, one strategy clearly took more effort and savvy in order to execute. I hope no one considers clearing cap space with a full two years notice some sort of achievement. Every single team that had a chance this year at landing James was able to accomplish that feat. (Chicago, New Jersey, New York, Miami, the LA Clippers.) It's also a pretty easy proposition when you are aware (like the Heat was most likely) what was going to happen in the end. There is a reason that Stephen A. Smith broke the story long before the announcement. More than just Lebron knew. But the differences don't end there. There is also a pretty decent disparity in talent obtained by the teams in their breakout offseasons. The biggest current knock on Boston's chances at reaching the finals again is the overall age of the team. All three of their stars are on the downslope of San Francisco 49ers jersey
their careers. But even in their prime years, which would include the season before their blockbuster team-up, 2006-2007 the trio of Wade, Lebron, and Bosh were statistically a better group. What makes it more imposing is that all three young future Heat teammates were still improving at the time. Let's crunch the numbers. Lebron James was leading his team almost singlehandedly and averaging 27.3 points per game on his way to a Finals berth. This also included playing the point on many occasions and racking up assists as well (6.0 per game.) Even more astounding is that Dwyane Wade was only half of the offensive one-punch of Miami's squad and still averaged 27.4 points per game, putting him only behind Kobe Bryant (31.6 ppg) that year in scoring. It's a pretty safe bet that he relinquished a decent amount of the points that he could have scored to Shaq in the name of teamwork. Even the least talented of the three, Chris Bosh was averaging 22.6 points per game AND 10.7 rebounds, which puts him above Garnett in scoring (22.4) and marginally below him in rebounds (12.8.) So essentially, Miami's least talented star player who was still developing was almost as good as the most talented Boston player (Garnett) who was in his prime. Ray Allen scored at a rate of 26.4 points per game, placing him below King James and D-Wade. Paul Pierce averaged 25 points per game, once again only surpassing Bosh's totals. Even if you take into account the fact that Garnett's dominating defense does not always adhere itself to concrete stats, its pretty obvious that Lebron was the better player in a head to head matchup of top talents even back then. He was averaging more assists than most point guards, scoring Seattle Seahawks jersey
at an incredibly high level and was no slouch on defense either. Garnett may have been a beast, but still not in Lebron's league. Let's discuss the performances of the two trios when it comes to playoff time. Dwyane Wade has already shown a deft ability to shine in the post season and also has a ring on his finger. Lebron has amassed some pretty impressive playoff numbers over his career. He even willed a subpar (at best) team into the championship series against the Spurs in 2007. In the Eastern Conference finals against the favored Detroit, I think we all remember him scoring 48 points and 29 0f 30 of his teams last points in a comeback win in game 5. Marv Albert called it a "historic performance."Everyone seems to only remember his playoff performance this year which was outstanding, but not clutch. Not to mention there was most likely an elbow issue affecting him. But even if not, that wasn't really representative of his postseason career. Ray Allen is generally a cold-blooded assassin in the playoffs. No one is a better pure shooter. But he is prone to some erratic games. Remember his zero field goal performance right after his brilliant game in the Finals this year? Bosh does not have a big enough sample survey to judge him. Although post players who take more high percentage shots seem to have more dependable and non fluctuating stats. Garnett is known for upping his game just a bit during crucial times. Once again, numbers don't tell the defensive whiz's full story. All in all, it appears that both units are pretty even when it comes to the intangibles of the postseason. So even that does not go in the Celtic's favor when compared side by side. The picture is getting pretty clear. Even when the future Heat stars had not reached their full potential, the combination of the three was better than Boston's future three in the primes of their respective careers. That even includes the playoffs. And back to my earlier point, the Celts were created, much like the Kobe Bryant Lakers, through good trades and intelligent management. If this does not dispel all the talk of the Celtics creating the first "superteam," then there is nothing that will. Don't get me wrong. Its not as if you can fault Pat Riley for taking advantage of an opportunity that fell in his lap. Or even Dwayne Wade for inviting his buddies to the hometown team. But I think we can put to rest any kind of chatter that Miami was just doing what other teams have done in the past. NotSt. Louis Rams jersey
even close. I think its become pretty apparent that if this team fails, it will fail "historically." A new precedent has been set, and barring injuries, there is no excuse for leaving the playoffs without a title.** Here is another article of mine that goes along well with this one. It involves Kobe Bryant in relation to the Miami Superteam
2010年12月23日星期四
23 Dec 10LA Lakers: Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol: NBA's Best 1-2 Punch Has 3-Peat in Sight
A remarkable duo.Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesThis Los Angeles Lakers team isn't as good as the squad that won it all last season. They're much, much better. And while many have pointed to the improved bench and the increased efforts from Lamar Odom as prime reasons for success, the elevated play of the team's two superstars, Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol, have really been fueling the charge thus far. There was an extraordinary amount of conversation throughout the offseason talking about Kobe finally beginning to look "old". Miami Dolphins jersey
His shot was off, he couldn't get his timing right after offseason knee surgery and he didn't seem to have the same fire that he possessed for so many years. And then the season got underway. Talks of Bryant beginning to weaken aren't just premature, they're downright dumb. If the Lakers go on to enjoy the same success they have over the last two seasons, Bryant's sixth ring will place him the closest he's ever been to the incomparable legend of Michael Jordan. Perhaps the reason Bryant continues to be disrespected by fans league wide is because it's so much easier to discredit someone. If Kobe's play had fallen off, then that's a logical basis for the argument, but it hasn't. Had he and his team lost Game 7 of the Finals last season against the Celtics, there would've been clamor for him to step up his game, but he didn't. Most importantly, if Bryant's Lakers weren't far and away the best team in the conference, that would provide just enough to question if his age is catching up with him, but they are. Will the beginning of 2011 also look like this for the Lakers?Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesWhile some continue to miscast the Black Mamba as selfish, it's simply not accurate. The definition of a facilitator, Bryant looks to get his teammates involved first before getting his own game going. Additionally, he is a teacher on the floor, and it's like having an assistant coach on the hardwood who is also the team's best player. Hardly a one-trick pony, regardless of who your favorite team might be, Bryant is hands-down the best clutch shooter in the league. There is nobody else that you'd rather have with the rock when your team is down late in the game. It's much easier to dislike him rather than to respect him, but really, what is not to like? This guy will go Minnesota Vikings
down as one of the top three players to ever play the game, and if you're a basketball fan—there's no way that you can't respect that. Somehow, someway, Gasol's greatness continues to get overlooked. Not only is he the most well-rounded big man in the conference, but he's the most talented big in the league. While he's had to do more with Andrew Bynum sidelined—Gasol will continue to produce at this clip even when the center returns to action. Currently averaging career-highs in both points per game (22.8), rebounds per game (12.1) and even assists per game (4.1) as well, it's clear that the Spaniard is unwilling to let much stand between him and championship ring No. 3. Who will win the 2010-11 NBA Championship?Who will win the 2010-11 NBA Championship?Miami Heat1.0%Los Angeles Lakers93.4%Boston Celtics3.7%Other1.9%Total votes: 486With every counting person that continues to overlook his unique skill set and underestimate exactly what he's capable of doing, Gasol collects more and more motivation to prove his critics wrong. An unbelievable shooter for someone of his size, his dynamic passing ability and solid rebounding abilities have exploded since he was labeled soft after the 2008 NBA Finals defeat at the hands of the Celtics. After being manhandled by Kevin Garnett, Gasol is now trucking through his individual opponents like a bulldozer through an old building. Displaying the toughness, grit and heart that have attributed to his evolved play everNew England Patriots jersey
since he first arrived in Los Angeles, Gasol will stop at nothing to go down as not only one of the most successful Europeans to ever play in the NBA. More importantly, much like Kobe, Gasol wants to be seen as one of the best everto wear a Lakers uniform. That's elite company. Ethan is a contributing consultant to Bleacher Report.
His shot was off, he couldn't get his timing right after offseason knee surgery and he didn't seem to have the same fire that he possessed for so many years. And then the season got underway. Talks of Bryant beginning to weaken aren't just premature, they're downright dumb. If the Lakers go on to enjoy the same success they have over the last two seasons, Bryant's sixth ring will place him the closest he's ever been to the incomparable legend of Michael Jordan. Perhaps the reason Bryant continues to be disrespected by fans league wide is because it's so much easier to discredit someone. If Kobe's play had fallen off, then that's a logical basis for the argument, but it hasn't. Had he and his team lost Game 7 of the Finals last season against the Celtics, there would've been clamor for him to step up his game, but he didn't. Most importantly, if Bryant's Lakers weren't far and away the best team in the conference, that would provide just enough to question if his age is catching up with him, but they are. Will the beginning of 2011 also look like this for the Lakers?Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesWhile some continue to miscast the Black Mamba as selfish, it's simply not accurate. The definition of a facilitator, Bryant looks to get his teammates involved first before getting his own game going. Additionally, he is a teacher on the floor, and it's like having an assistant coach on the hardwood who is also the team's best player. Hardly a one-trick pony, regardless of who your favorite team might be, Bryant is hands-down the best clutch shooter in the league. There is nobody else that you'd rather have with the rock when your team is down late in the game. It's much easier to dislike him rather than to respect him, but really, what is not to like? This guy will go Minnesota Vikings
down as one of the top three players to ever play the game, and if you're a basketball fan—there's no way that you can't respect that. Somehow, someway, Gasol's greatness continues to get overlooked. Not only is he the most well-rounded big man in the conference, but he's the most talented big in the league. While he's had to do more with Andrew Bynum sidelined—Gasol will continue to produce at this clip even when the center returns to action. Currently averaging career-highs in both points per game (22.8), rebounds per game (12.1) and even assists per game (4.1) as well, it's clear that the Spaniard is unwilling to let much stand between him and championship ring No. 3. Who will win the 2010-11 NBA Championship?Who will win the 2010-11 NBA Championship?Miami Heat1.0%Los Angeles Lakers93.4%Boston Celtics3.7%Other1.9%Total votes: 486With every counting person that continues to overlook his unique skill set and underestimate exactly what he's capable of doing, Gasol collects more and more motivation to prove his critics wrong. An unbelievable shooter for someone of his size, his dynamic passing ability and solid rebounding abilities have exploded since he was labeled soft after the 2008 NBA Finals defeat at the hands of the Celtics. After being manhandled by Kevin Garnett, Gasol is now trucking through his individual opponents like a bulldozer through an old building. Displaying the toughness, grit and heart that have attributed to his evolved play everNew England Patriots jersey
since he first arrived in Los Angeles, Gasol will stop at nothing to go down as not only one of the most successful Europeans to ever play in the NBA. More importantly, much like Kobe, Gasol wants to be seen as one of the best everto wear a Lakers uniform. That's elite company. Ethan is a contributing consultant to Bleacher Report.
2010年12月22日星期三
Summer of LeBron James: The King Just Wants His Turn
Gregory Shamus/Getty ImagesSince his sophomore year in high school, LeBron James has known what he was going to do with his life—play basketball and make a lot of money doing it.Declaring himself eligible for the NBA Draft during his senior year of high school at Akron Saint Vincent-Saint Mary, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
college was never truly an option for James—it didn’t need to be.The three-time winner of Ohio Mr. Basketball (2001, 2002, 2003) was a physical freak of nature in high school. He dwarfed nearly every other high-schooler he went up against standing 6'8" tall.Unlike other physically dominating prep athletes, such as Kwame Brown (sorry to throw you under the bus Kwame), he could flat out “ball.”His skills on the hardwood made people suggest he was the Air-apparent to Michael Jordan. James even donned “His Airness’s” No. 23, welcoming the comparison.From early on his high school career, college basketball was out of the picture—he was that good.College coaches knew it too.Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo said that he recruited James for a little while until he knew he was too good to play at the college level.Nicknamed “The Chosen One,” James didn’t get to choose the team that he would play for after leaving Saint Vincent-Saint Mary; the team got to choose him.James’s hometown Cleveland Cavaliers was that team. They selected the 18-year-old with the first pick in the 2003 NBA Draft.From the moment that the Cavaliers won the NBA Draft Lottery that year, it was a foregone conclusion that they would take James.I don’t even think he had to work out for the team. There was no question; Cleveland was going to choose James.Now fast-forward seven years, six All-Star Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
selections, five playoff appearances, two MVP awards, and one NBA Finals, James has the opportunity to choose the team he wishes to play for through free agency—something he has never had the chance to do.Essentially, James has been recruited like a high school graduate about to enter college.He didn’t travel team to team; teams came to him, similar to how college coaches travel cross country to sit in the homes of prized recruits and sell their school to the recruit and their family.James granted six teams official visits—New Jersey, New York, Miami, Los Angeles Clippers, Chicago, and Cleveland.Each team told James what they thought he wanted to hear, just like a college coach tells a youngster in an attempt to get them to come play for their school.Only James wasn’t wooed with the promise of playing time, the academic prestige of the school, or the national exposure playing for the school would bring him.No, teams wooed James with talks about legacy, greatness, loyalty, and worldwide exposure.Following the visits, James most likely consulted his family, his friends, and acquaintances in trying to decide where to play and what would be best for him.No different from what an 18-year-old kid out of high school would do when choosing where to go to college.With recent reports that James plans on announcing his decision on ESPN Thursday night, he is even creating his very own signing day.Presumably, James will be seated behind a microphone, his agents, friends, and family surrounding him, with six hats laid out in front of him.And when the time comes, in five-star recruit-like fashion, James will pick out a hat, place it on his head, and crush the hopes and dreams of five teams and their fans. However, in Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
doing so, he will have uplifted the spirits of an entire city—the city in which the team he now proudly represents belongs, because “The Chosen One” has chosen them over all other suitors.“The Summer of LeBron” is not about the NBA’s best player possibly switching teams and joining forces with two of the league’s best players.It’s about a man who was forced to grow up too fast and never got the chance to experience something that most boys get to do before becoming men in the NBA.He just wanted his turn.
college was never truly an option for James—it didn’t need to be.The three-time winner of Ohio Mr. Basketball (2001, 2002, 2003) was a physical freak of nature in high school. He dwarfed nearly every other high-schooler he went up against standing 6'8" tall.Unlike other physically dominating prep athletes, such as Kwame Brown (sorry to throw you under the bus Kwame), he could flat out “ball.”His skills on the hardwood made people suggest he was the Air-apparent to Michael Jordan. James even donned “His Airness’s” No. 23, welcoming the comparison.From early on his high school career, college basketball was out of the picture—he was that good.College coaches knew it too.Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo said that he recruited James for a little while until he knew he was too good to play at the college level.Nicknamed “The Chosen One,” James didn’t get to choose the team that he would play for after leaving Saint Vincent-Saint Mary; the team got to choose him.James’s hometown Cleveland Cavaliers was that team. They selected the 18-year-old with the first pick in the 2003 NBA Draft.From the moment that the Cavaliers won the NBA Draft Lottery that year, it was a foregone conclusion that they would take James.I don’t even think he had to work out for the team. There was no question; Cleveland was going to choose James.Now fast-forward seven years, six All-Star Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
selections, five playoff appearances, two MVP awards, and one NBA Finals, James has the opportunity to choose the team he wishes to play for through free agency—something he has never had the chance to do.Essentially, James has been recruited like a high school graduate about to enter college.He didn’t travel team to team; teams came to him, similar to how college coaches travel cross country to sit in the homes of prized recruits and sell their school to the recruit and their family.James granted six teams official visits—New Jersey, New York, Miami, Los Angeles Clippers, Chicago, and Cleveland.Each team told James what they thought he wanted to hear, just like a college coach tells a youngster in an attempt to get them to come play for their school.Only James wasn’t wooed with the promise of playing time, the academic prestige of the school, or the national exposure playing for the school would bring him.No, teams wooed James with talks about legacy, greatness, loyalty, and worldwide exposure.Following the visits, James most likely consulted his family, his friends, and acquaintances in trying to decide where to play and what would be best for him.No different from what an 18-year-old kid out of high school would do when choosing where to go to college.With recent reports that James plans on announcing his decision on ESPN Thursday night, he is even creating his very own signing day.Presumably, James will be seated behind a microphone, his agents, friends, and family surrounding him, with six hats laid out in front of him.And when the time comes, in five-star recruit-like fashion, James will pick out a hat, place it on his head, and crush the hopes and dreams of five teams and their fans. However, in Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
doing so, he will have uplifted the spirits of an entire city—the city in which the team he now proudly represents belongs, because “The Chosen One” has chosen them over all other suitors.“The Summer of LeBron” is not about the NBA’s best player possibly switching teams and joining forces with two of the league’s best players.It’s about a man who was forced to grow up too fast and never got the chance to experience something that most boys get to do before becoming men in the NBA.He just wanted his turn.
2010 Free Agency: Chris Bosh Joins Dwyane Wade In Miami
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesThe first part of the divine trio is in place.According to ESPN sources that had transcripts of the meeting between Chris Bosh and the Heat, Bosh is a lock to end up in Miami.The Toronto Raptor will join Wade for the maximum salary allowed under the Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
league's collective bargaining agreement.Bosh and Wade, along with Pat Riley, are said to still be courting LeBron James. James has said he will not announce his decision until 9 p.m. Thursday night in a televised special for ESPN.It isnot known how much of a salary cut the players would be willing to take in an attempt to bring James in, seeing as the Heat doesnot have enough money to give maximum contracts to all three players.Nothing will become official until contracts can be signed on July 8th.It is unknown if the Heat will sign Bosh for $96 million over five years or get a sign and trade with the Raptors for Bosh to get $125 million over six years.The Raptors have expressed little interest in a sign-and-trade with the Heat as they have no interest in their current roster.The Raptors are also Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
hurt by the lack of communication with Bosh which makes it unlikely that they'll help him land a maximum deal with a sign-and-trade.James has not made a decision and has made it clear that he has not made any agreements with his Team USA teammates.Many believe James may actually remain in Cleveland, although the Knicks have not given up on James after signing Amar'e Stoudemire.
league's collective bargaining agreement.Bosh and Wade, along with Pat Riley, are said to still be courting LeBron James. James has said he will not announce his decision until 9 p.m. Thursday night in a televised special for ESPN.It isnot known how much of a salary cut the players would be willing to take in an attempt to bring James in, seeing as the Heat doesnot have enough money to give maximum contracts to all three players.Nothing will become official until contracts can be signed on July 8th.It is unknown if the Heat will sign Bosh for $96 million over five years or get a sign and trade with the Raptors for Bosh to get $125 million over six years.The Raptors have expressed little interest in a sign-and-trade with the Heat as they have no interest in their current roster.The Raptors are also Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
hurt by the lack of communication with Bosh which makes it unlikely that they'll help him land a maximum deal with a sign-and-trade.James has not made a decision and has made it clear that he has not made any agreements with his Team USA teammates.Many believe James may actually remain in Cleveland, although the Knicks have not given up on James after signing Amar'e Stoudemire.
2010年12月21日星期二
MLB Hot Stove: Is Terry Collins the Other New York Team's Answer To The Mess?
Nick Laham/Getty ImagesAfter the long overdue firing of skipper Jerry Manuel, the New York Mets owners announced the two-year signing of Terry Collins to be the franchises 20th skipper. COLLINS BACKGROUND: Collins started his pro career as a shortstop drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1971. Over the next 10 years, Collins played for the Pirates and Los Angeles Angels, but only in the minors. In 1981, Collins started managing in the minors, but this time he did break in to the majors. From 1993-99, he managed the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Angels. Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
COLLINS AND HIS MESS: No doubt this new venture will be Collins hardest because the Mets are in dire straits. See, unlike the other New York team, winning is not a word in the Mets vocabulary. Of course, neither is leadership, sportsmanship, respect, healthy or any other positive aspect used to describe a quality baseball team. So, the question remains: Is Terry Collins the man who can right the Mets back from mediocrity? No one can answer this for certain, but if history means anything, this could be another rough ride for Mets fans. From Mess To Mets: Is Terry Collins The Other New York Team's AnswerFrom Mess To Mets: Is Terry Collins The Other New York Team's AnswerYes, how could it get any worse than now.65.6%No, it's the Mets and the team does worse better than anyone.34.4%Total votes: 32Collins will bring a much-needed energetic personality and is a direct straight shooter—two traits Manuel severely lacked, but something the players so desperately required. A lot like New York Yankees skipper Joe Girardi, Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
Collins has a drive to win and is always overly prepared. The difference is the Yankee players share Girardi’s sentiments of never giving-up a win; the Mets players are familiar with continually collapsing under pressure. Collins two other stints in charge with the Astros and the Angeles were successful record-wise, then consistent September breakdowns of both Collins-lead franchises lead to missing the playoffs and falling back to second place. Both times the playoffs were well in reach, but the players were burnt from Collins “live and die with each play” and too intense for a 162 games to handle. Overcompensating might work in the short term, but Collins is going to have to control his emotions when the Amazins' start to slump. Collin is dealing with a lot of frisky "it’s all about me" types on his Mets roster and a captain who no one is scared of in David Wright. Look, fact is anything is an upgrade from Manuel. It would be hard to imagine the Mets could get much worse than they currently are, but never say never when talking about the Amazins’. As for Collins, it will be refreshing to see some emotion coming from the dugout in Citi Field. Will it be overkill for the players? Well, this is what remains to be seen. Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesFor now, look at it as a sign that things are finally starting to change for the blue and orange. The pieces are in place in regards to talent, but it’s the teamwork that needs a face lift. If anything, the Mets owe it for their fans to support Collins and respect his authority. Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
A MESSAGE FOR THE METS FANS: All I can say to the many loyal Mets fans out there is that it’s a start in the right direction. You all truly deserve to see a good team in 2011, but more than anything else try to not live in the past. Try to stay positive, which I hope is not asking too much. As hard as it is, you have to start to trust the Mets again.
COLLINS AND HIS MESS: No doubt this new venture will be Collins hardest because the Mets are in dire straits. See, unlike the other New York team, winning is not a word in the Mets vocabulary. Of course, neither is leadership, sportsmanship, respect, healthy or any other positive aspect used to describe a quality baseball team. So, the question remains: Is Terry Collins the man who can right the Mets back from mediocrity? No one can answer this for certain, but if history means anything, this could be another rough ride for Mets fans. From Mess To Mets: Is Terry Collins The Other New York Team's AnswerFrom Mess To Mets: Is Terry Collins The Other New York Team's AnswerYes, how could it get any worse than now.65.6%No, it's the Mets and the team does worse better than anyone.34.4%Total votes: 32Collins will bring a much-needed energetic personality and is a direct straight shooter—two traits Manuel severely lacked, but something the players so desperately required. A lot like New York Yankees skipper Joe Girardi, Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
Collins has a drive to win and is always overly prepared. The difference is the Yankee players share Girardi’s sentiments of never giving-up a win; the Mets players are familiar with continually collapsing under pressure. Collins two other stints in charge with the Astros and the Angeles were successful record-wise, then consistent September breakdowns of both Collins-lead franchises lead to missing the playoffs and falling back to second place. Both times the playoffs were well in reach, but the players were burnt from Collins “live and die with each play” and too intense for a 162 games to handle. Overcompensating might work in the short term, but Collins is going to have to control his emotions when the Amazins' start to slump. Collin is dealing with a lot of frisky "it’s all about me" types on his Mets roster and a captain who no one is scared of in David Wright. Look, fact is anything is an upgrade from Manuel. It would be hard to imagine the Mets could get much worse than they currently are, but never say never when talking about the Amazins’. As for Collins, it will be refreshing to see some emotion coming from the dugout in Citi Field. Will it be overkill for the players? Well, this is what remains to be seen. Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesFor now, look at it as a sign that things are finally starting to change for the blue and orange. The pieces are in place in regards to talent, but it’s the teamwork that needs a face lift. If anything, the Mets owe it for their fans to support Collins and respect his authority. Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
A MESSAGE FOR THE METS FANS: All I can say to the many loyal Mets fans out there is that it’s a start in the right direction. You all truly deserve to see a good team in 2011, but more than anything else try to not live in the past. Try to stay positive, which I hope is not asking too much. As hard as it is, you have to start to trust the Mets again.
Adrian Gonzalez Trade More Than Makes Up for Red Sox Loss of Martinez, Beltre
Adrian Gonzalez will (finally) be joining the Red SoxChristian Petersen/Getty ImagesSo after a day of "Padres-Red Sox have a trade for Adrian Gonzalez!" "Never mind, they don't." "Wait, they got him after all!" trade talks between the Boston Red Sox and San Diego Padres, the Red Sox finally have their answer to Mark Teixeira.The slugger from San Diego has finally come to Fenway after years of circulating rumors between the Padres and Red Sox.The Red Sox drop three prospects—Casey Kelly, Anthony Rizzo and Reymond Fuentes—as well as a player to be Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
named later. The Red Sox also lock up Gonzalez for the next eight years in a massive contract that will cost the Red Sox $167 million in all.Gonzalez has long been one of the elite hitters in the game but is often overlooked when conversations about the best players in baseball come up, likely due to the fact that he plays on a small-market team.Expect that to change now.In his seven seasons with the Texas Rangers and Padres, Gonzalez consistently plays in over 150 games a year, hits for a lifetime average of .284 and has a slugging percentage of .507 with an OBP of .368 for an OPS of .875. In 2010, Gonzalez launched 31 homers with 101 RBI and an OPS of .904.This trade comes just about a week and a half afterfan favorite catcher Victor Martinez left Bostonfor the Detroit Tigers. Gonzalez is four years younger than Martinez, and although Martinez is a batter hitter for average, Gonzalez is a much better power hitter.Because of the trade, this will likely mean that one of the pleasant surprises of 2010, Adrian Beltre, will not be re-signed by Boston, as Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
Kevin Youkilis will likely move to third base to allow Gonzalez to play first base. Beltre rebounded in 2010 after years of mediocrity in Seattle, hitting a league-leading 49 doubles with 28 home runs, 102 RBI, an average of .321 and an OPS of .919.Beltre will likely be missed by many Red Sox fans (assuming that the Red Sox don't sign him), as will Martinez, but if Gonzalez is anything like he was in San Diego, he will more than make up for the losses.
named later. The Red Sox also lock up Gonzalez for the next eight years in a massive contract that will cost the Red Sox $167 million in all.Gonzalez has long been one of the elite hitters in the game but is often overlooked when conversations about the best players in baseball come up, likely due to the fact that he plays on a small-market team.Expect that to change now.In his seven seasons with the Texas Rangers and Padres, Gonzalez consistently plays in over 150 games a year, hits for a lifetime average of .284 and has a slugging percentage of .507 with an OBP of .368 for an OPS of .875. In 2010, Gonzalez launched 31 homers with 101 RBI and an OPS of .904.This trade comes just about a week and a half afterfan favorite catcher Victor Martinez left Bostonfor the Detroit Tigers. Gonzalez is four years younger than Martinez, and although Martinez is a batter hitter for average, Gonzalez is a much better power hitter.Because of the trade, this will likely mean that one of the pleasant surprises of 2010, Adrian Beltre, will not be re-signed by Boston, as Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
Kevin Youkilis will likely move to third base to allow Gonzalez to play first base. Beltre rebounded in 2010 after years of mediocrity in Seattle, hitting a league-leading 49 doubles with 28 home runs, 102 RBI, an average of .321 and an OPS of .919.Beltre will likely be missed by many Red Sox fans (assuming that the Red Sox don't sign him), as will Martinez, but if Gonzalez is anything like he was in San Diego, he will more than make up for the losses.
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 Dallas Cowboys 2010 First-Half Debacle Leads To Brown Paper Bag Industry Riches
Dallas Cowboys Fans Early in 2010 SeasonChris Chambers/Getty ImagesSATIRE ; DALLAS — Texas grocers no longer even bother to ask, “Paper or plastic?,” because they already know the answer. “Paper. Make it a double.” Not only do Dallas Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
Cowboy supporters now attend games with two brown paper bags over their heads, they don’t even bother to cut out eye holes. All they need is a small straw hole for copious amounts of pain-numbing alcohol self-medication. Such is the depth of shame for once proud Cowboy football fans, whose formerly beloved team today sports an abysmal 1-7 record at the midpoint of the 2010 NFL season. So great are Dallas fans’ embarrassment that bag-making pulp demand may soon render Texas state forests into endangered species. Already there’s not a tree left standing within 200 miles of the Cowboys’ stadium. The sole bright spot to this Cowboys train wreck season is that the Texas brown paper bag industry is going gangbusters. The rest of the nation may still be in the economic crapper, but not these guys; in fact, they couldn’t be happier with the team’s demise. Should the losing continue, as is now widely anticipated, expect team owner Jerry Jones’ utter humiliation to Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
lead him to soon sell his woeful Cowboys. And in a match made in heaven, the buyer will be none other than the newly rich Texas Brown Paper Bag Manufacturers Association. What could be a more perfect combination — the Dallas Cowboys, the NFL’s most embarrassing team, sponsored by the one group which enables team fans to appear in public and still maintain a tiny shred of dignity?
Cowboy supporters now attend games with two brown paper bags over their heads, they don’t even bother to cut out eye holes. All they need is a small straw hole for copious amounts of pain-numbing alcohol self-medication. Such is the depth of shame for once proud Cowboy football fans, whose formerly beloved team today sports an abysmal 1-7 record at the midpoint of the 2010 NFL season. So great are Dallas fans’ embarrassment that bag-making pulp demand may soon render Texas state forests into endangered species. Already there’s not a tree left standing within 200 miles of the Cowboys’ stadium. The sole bright spot to this Cowboys train wreck season is that the Texas brown paper bag industry is going gangbusters. The rest of the nation may still be in the economic crapper, but not these guys; in fact, they couldn’t be happier with the team’s demise. Should the losing continue, as is now widely anticipated, expect team owner Jerry Jones’ utter humiliation to Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
lead him to soon sell his woeful Cowboys. And in a match made in heaven, the buyer will be none other than the newly rich Texas Brown Paper Bag Manufacturers Association. What could be a more perfect combination — the Dallas Cowboys, the NFL’s most embarrassing team, sponsored by the one group which enables team fans to appear in public and still maintain a tiny shred of dignity?
19 Dec 10 Michael Vick: Is the Philadelphia Eagles' QB Redeeming Himself?
Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesOn a night that Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb hoped to celebrate his new contract, his opposing quarterback was the one who had a night to remember. The dazzling Michael Vick became the first player in the history of the game to throw for 300 yards and four touchdowns, while also rushing for 50 yards and an additional 2 scores. Marveling at what they saw, fan message boards and star struck fans were lighting up. Finally, nine years later, Vick never looked more so like the player the Atlanta Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
Falcons envisioned when they took him first overall in the 2001 NFL Draft. A player that’s dynamic speed and arm strength would reinvent the game, and whose dog fighting fiasco could forever tarnish his reputation. If it sounds crazy, don’t worry, it is and will continue to be as long as Michael Vick continues what is a strange odyssey. At halftime, the writer looked at his cell phone and had an incoming text message that read: “As little as a year ago I was laughing at this guy. But are you watching this???” Whether or not this view is common throughout society is up for debate. After all, this is a man that was once such an easy target and so easy to dislike that dog-chewed trading cards of his were auctioned for canine charities. That even when released from prison and getting a contract with the Eagles many citizens of Philadelphia protested the acquisition with signs that read “Pack up your beagle, Vick’s an Eagle” and “Too Many VickTims”. Has Micheal Vick redeemed himself to you?Has Micheal Vick redeemed himself to you?Yes62.4%No10.4%I Never Liked Him0.0%I Always Liked Him27.2%Total votes: 125However, it’s true though that success can make people forget about past transgressions. Maybe Michael Vick knew this all along. “I will redeem myself. I have to,” he vowed after pleading guilty to charges in August of 2007. He said this even as his then team prepared to cut him and pursue a large portion of his contract. He said this even as he knew he was a disgraced potential superstar heading for the worst place imaginable: Federal prison. “When my team first signed him, honestly, I wasn’t sure about it. But I’ve warmed up to him this year,” a fan on a message board told me. “Vick is unreal and we will resign him this season,” another wrote. Forget about the dingy and tainted welcome mat that was thrown out upon his arrival, many Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
Fans in Philadelphia are now hoping he’ll stick around. It’s easy to forget and forgive when you’re witnessing what is arguably the best quarterback performance of the season. Now after playing in six games and playing the most of the five of them, Vick is on pace to set career highs in nearly every passing statistic. He has yet to turn the ball over and possesses a league-high 115.1 quarterback rating. “If Michael Vick’s not the best quarterback in the league right now, he's at least in the top three,” ESPN’s Matt Mosley said. “Vick was easily the best quarterback on the field. If McNabb's worth $40 million guaranteed, what could Vick bring on the open market?” Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesOf course not everyone is jumping on the Vick bandwagon — and I don’t just mean fans in the nation’s capital. “This is a guy who committed a despicable federal crime and then lied about it to the NFL Commissioner, the Atlanta Falcons and anyone who cared to listen. Then we uncovered the sick ways he killed dogs only to go on a scripted insincere redemption tour. I’m not going to lie, I don’t like this guy,” another fan told me. No doubt the suddenly awoken Eagles’ quarterback has skeletons in his closet (or in the ground). He also grumbled last season about the way he was being utilized by the Eagles when many felt he should be thankful to just be on a roster. But these views appear to be becoming a minority impression. Vick knows he’s had to work for this. Despite what some may see as insincere contrition, he has partnered with the Human Society to accept him and create anti-dogfighting community Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
based programs. He has visibly worked on his game and getting himself back to NFL shape after three years off despite the criticism from many of the unforgiving and dog-loving society. No doubt it was a mess Vick created, but as he seeks to regain his spot, he’s done it with a lot of
obstacles and people who were once against him."I've had some great games in my day," Vick said after the game with a smile. "But I don't think I've had one quite like this one." Indeed, he’s learning that salvation is a sweet thing.
Falcons envisioned when they took him first overall in the 2001 NFL Draft. A player that’s dynamic speed and arm strength would reinvent the game, and whose dog fighting fiasco could forever tarnish his reputation. If it sounds crazy, don’t worry, it is and will continue to be as long as Michael Vick continues what is a strange odyssey. At halftime, the writer looked at his cell phone and had an incoming text message that read: “As little as a year ago I was laughing at this guy. But are you watching this???” Whether or not this view is common throughout society is up for debate. After all, this is a man that was once such an easy target and so easy to dislike that dog-chewed trading cards of his were auctioned for canine charities. That even when released from prison and getting a contract with the Eagles many citizens of Philadelphia protested the acquisition with signs that read “Pack up your beagle, Vick’s an Eagle” and “Too Many VickTims”. Has Micheal Vick redeemed himself to you?Has Micheal Vick redeemed himself to you?Yes62.4%No10.4%I Never Liked Him0.0%I Always Liked Him27.2%Total votes: 125However, it’s true though that success can make people forget about past transgressions. Maybe Michael Vick knew this all along. “I will redeem myself. I have to,” he vowed after pleading guilty to charges in August of 2007. He said this even as his then team prepared to cut him and pursue a large portion of his contract. He said this even as he knew he was a disgraced potential superstar heading for the worst place imaginable: Federal prison. “When my team first signed him, honestly, I wasn’t sure about it. But I’ve warmed up to him this year,” a fan on a message board told me. “Vick is unreal and we will resign him this season,” another wrote. Forget about the dingy and tainted welcome mat that was thrown out upon his arrival, many Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
Fans in Philadelphia are now hoping he’ll stick around. It’s easy to forget and forgive when you’re witnessing what is arguably the best quarterback performance of the season. Now after playing in six games and playing the most of the five of them, Vick is on pace to set career highs in nearly every passing statistic. He has yet to turn the ball over and possesses a league-high 115.1 quarterback rating. “If Michael Vick’s not the best quarterback in the league right now, he's at least in the top three,” ESPN’s Matt Mosley said. “Vick was easily the best quarterback on the field. If McNabb's worth $40 million guaranteed, what could Vick bring on the open market?” Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesOf course not everyone is jumping on the Vick bandwagon — and I don’t just mean fans in the nation’s capital. “This is a guy who committed a despicable federal crime and then lied about it to the NFL Commissioner, the Atlanta Falcons and anyone who cared to listen. Then we uncovered the sick ways he killed dogs only to go on a scripted insincere redemption tour. I’m not going to lie, I don’t like this guy,” another fan told me. No doubt the suddenly awoken Eagles’ quarterback has skeletons in his closet (or in the ground). He also grumbled last season about the way he was being utilized by the Eagles when many felt he should be thankful to just be on a roster. But these views appear to be becoming a minority impression. Vick knows he’s had to work for this. Despite what some may see as insincere contrition, he has partnered with the Human Society to accept him and create anti-dogfighting community Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
based programs. He has visibly worked on his game and getting himself back to NFL shape after three years off despite the criticism from many of the unforgiving and dog-loving society. No doubt it was a mess Vick created, but as he seeks to regain his spot, he’s done it with a lot of
obstacles and people who were once against him."I've had some great games in my day," Vick said after the game with a smile. "But I don't think I've had one quite like this one." Indeed, he’s learning that salvation is a sweet thing.
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 Last-Minute Remarks on Sunday Night Football Week 12 Picks
Bob Levey/Getty ImagesWeek 12 (November 28):Tentative game: San Diego IndianapolisProspects: 6-3 vs. 4-5; the Chargers win over the Texans potentially put the NFL in a difficult situation. They had a bye this week, so they couldn’t make it back to .500, but they’re close Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
enough, and have enough upward momentum that history suggests will continue, that the NFL will have to weigh its tentative game bias against the present iffy state of the game and the strength of the alternatives. 6-3 vs. 4-5 still isn’t so lopsided to rule the game out.Protected games: Eagles-Bears (FOX) and Jags-Giants (CBS).Other possible games mentioned on last week’s Watch and their records: Titans (5-4)-Texans (4-5), Chiefs (5-4)-Seahawks (5-4), Packers (6-3)-Falcons (7-2), and Bucs (6-3)-Ravens (6-3).Impact of Monday Night Football: None.Analysis: I said last week that the best situation for Colts-Chargers left Packers-Falcons at 6-3 vs. 6-3 and Colts-Chargers at 6-3 v. 4-5, but that the same situation could very easily coincide with Bucs-Ravens being 6-3 vs. 7-2, but even then Packers-Falcons could get the nod based on name teams and people’s general feeling that the Bucs are beneficiaries of a weak schedule. I felt the Ravens needed to win on Thursday night to have any shot at theReebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
flex at all. Not only did that not happen, it’s now very difficult for the NFL to pass up a battle between two teams that might be the best two in the NFC. Worth noting that both of these would be moves from a CBS game to a Fox game, with a Fox-to-CBS move unlikely in the remaining weeks to force Week 17 to go to a CBS game, and Green Bay would be maxed out on NBC appearances with Packers-Patriots unlikely to be flexed out, and a potential huge Week 17 game with the Bears. Would the NFL keep a 6-3 vs. 4-5 game with a 6-3 vs. 7-2 game available of this caliber? One need only look to this same week, and this same Colts-Chargers game, two years ago. But 7-2 wasn’t the best record in the league then… Final prediction: Indianapolis Colts Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
San Diego Chargers (no change), but a flex would not surprise me one iota. (Lack of announcement is probably to see if Eagles-Bears at 5-3 vs. 6-3 is worthy of Fox late game vis-a-vis Bucs-Ravens, which may be a good sign for flexing in Packers-Falcons.)This article is also featured onSports.
enough, and have enough upward momentum that history suggests will continue, that the NFL will have to weigh its tentative game bias against the present iffy state of the game and the strength of the alternatives. 6-3 vs. 4-5 still isn’t so lopsided to rule the game out.Protected games: Eagles-Bears (FOX) and Jags-Giants (CBS).Other possible games mentioned on last week’s Watch and their records: Titans (5-4)-Texans (4-5), Chiefs (5-4)-Seahawks (5-4), Packers (6-3)-Falcons (7-2), and Bucs (6-3)-Ravens (6-3).Impact of Monday Night Football: None.Analysis: I said last week that the best situation for Colts-Chargers left Packers-Falcons at 6-3 vs. 6-3 and Colts-Chargers at 6-3 v. 4-5, but that the same situation could very easily coincide with Bucs-Ravens being 6-3 vs. 7-2, but even then Packers-Falcons could get the nod based on name teams and people’s general feeling that the Bucs are beneficiaries of a weak schedule. I felt the Ravens needed to win on Thursday night to have any shot at theReebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
flex at all. Not only did that not happen, it’s now very difficult for the NFL to pass up a battle between two teams that might be the best two in the NFC. Worth noting that both of these would be moves from a CBS game to a Fox game, with a Fox-to-CBS move unlikely in the remaining weeks to force Week 17 to go to a CBS game, and Green Bay would be maxed out on NBC appearances with Packers-Patriots unlikely to be flexed out, and a potential huge Week 17 game with the Bears. Would the NFL keep a 6-3 vs. 4-5 game with a 6-3 vs. 7-2 game available of this caliber? One need only look to this same week, and this same Colts-Chargers game, two years ago. But 7-2 wasn’t the best record in the league then… Final prediction: Indianapolis Colts Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
San Diego Chargers (no change), but a flex would not surprise me one iota. (Lack of announcement is probably to see if Eagles-Bears at 5-3 vs. 6-3 is worthy of Fox late game vis-a-vis Bucs-Ravens, which may be a good sign for flexing in Packers-Falcons.)This article is also featured onSports.
2010年12月17日星期五
17 Dec 10 Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Advice: Who to Pick Up in Week 12
Doug Pensinger/Getty ImagesWeek 12 is now upon us on the NFL schedule, and can often be a turning point in fantasy football as well as for the real teams with Thanksgiving approaching.From this point on, the best teams usually prove themselves and the teams that aren’t so good proveReebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
that as well.Injuries have opened up opportunities for players to produce, and thus provide an opportunity for shrewd fantasy football owners to make a roster addition or two to bolster their playoff run.If you find yourself in need of a little roster refreshing, take a look at our “Week 12 Waiver Wire Pick Them Ups” list for recommendations at each position.Matt Cassel (Kansas City Chiefs)Cassel went 15-for-24 for 193 yards and two touchdowns in Week 11 against the Arizona Cardinals, and has now put up double-digit fantasy points in six straight games and seven of his last eight.He has also avoided turnovers over the last six weeks, throwing just one interception in that span. The Chiefs typically don’t throw the ball a lot, but Cassel has a favorable matchup coming in Week 12 against the Seattle Seahawks.Cassel also has a favorable-looking schedule in Week 15 and 16, when most fantasy leagues have playoffs, with games against the St. Louis Rams and Tennessee Titans those weeks.Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesThe surging signal caller can be used as a starter down the stretch of the season, particularly in leagues where you have to start two quarterbacks.Keiland Williams (Washington Redskins)Williams had 95 total yard (68 rushing) on 29 touches in Week 11 against the Tennessee Titans.With Ryan Torain (hamstring) and Clinton Portis (groin) both dealing with injuries, Williams has emerged as the lead back for the Redskins over the last two Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
weeks.In Week 10 against the Philadelphia Eagles, Williams scored three total touchdowns and had 139 total yards.With the questionable status of Torain and Portis going forward, Williams should be in line for plenty of touches as long as he can be productive. The fact that he has 10 catches over the past two games only further enhances his fantasy potential, and he is a worthy addition in all fantasy formats.Robert Meachem (New Orleans Saints)Meachem had three receptions for 50 yards and two touchdowns against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 11. On top of that, he scored for the first time since scoring in back-to-back games in Week 5 and 6.With Saints’ quarterback Drew Brees spreading the ball around the way he does, it can be hard to rely upon any one member of the receiving corp, but when someone emerges it is also hard for fantasy owners to ignore.The New Orleans offense is prolific and if you can find the right receiver each week, you can optimize your lineup. Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
Meachem’s fantasy value is greater in standard leagues, but owners in need of wide receiver depth will certainly want to consider adding him.To see who else to pick up this week go here... Who to Pick Up in Week 12
that as well.Injuries have opened up opportunities for players to produce, and thus provide an opportunity for shrewd fantasy football owners to make a roster addition or two to bolster their playoff run.If you find yourself in need of a little roster refreshing, take a look at our “Week 12 Waiver Wire Pick Them Ups” list for recommendations at each position.Matt Cassel (Kansas City Chiefs)Cassel went 15-for-24 for 193 yards and two touchdowns in Week 11 against the Arizona Cardinals, and has now put up double-digit fantasy points in six straight games and seven of his last eight.He has also avoided turnovers over the last six weeks, throwing just one interception in that span. The Chiefs typically don’t throw the ball a lot, but Cassel has a favorable matchup coming in Week 12 against the Seattle Seahawks.Cassel also has a favorable-looking schedule in Week 15 and 16, when most fantasy leagues have playoffs, with games against the St. Louis Rams and Tennessee Titans those weeks.Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesThe surging signal caller can be used as a starter down the stretch of the season, particularly in leagues where you have to start two quarterbacks.Keiland Williams (Washington Redskins)Williams had 95 total yard (68 rushing) on 29 touches in Week 11 against the Tennessee Titans.With Ryan Torain (hamstring) and Clinton Portis (groin) both dealing with injuries, Williams has emerged as the lead back for the Redskins over the last two Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
weeks.In Week 10 against the Philadelphia Eagles, Williams scored three total touchdowns and had 139 total yards.With the questionable status of Torain and Portis going forward, Williams should be in line for plenty of touches as long as he can be productive. The fact that he has 10 catches over the past two games only further enhances his fantasy potential, and he is a worthy addition in all fantasy formats.Robert Meachem (New Orleans Saints)Meachem had three receptions for 50 yards and two touchdowns against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 11. On top of that, he scored for the first time since scoring in back-to-back games in Week 5 and 6.With Saints’ quarterback Drew Brees spreading the ball around the way he does, it can be hard to rely upon any one member of the receiving corp, but when someone emerges it is also hard for fantasy owners to ignore.The New Orleans offense is prolific and if you can find the right receiver each week, you can optimize your lineup. Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
Meachem’s fantasy value is greater in standard leagues, but owners in need of wide receiver depth will certainly want to consider adding him.To see who else to pick up this week go here... Who to Pick Up in Week 12
2010年12月16日星期四
16 Dec 10 The Lions on Thanksgiving Day? We Need a New Tradition
Poor Lions fan. Photo courtesy of ;s face it, the Detroit Lions organization has been quite awful since their establishment in 1929. Since the Super Bowl became the championship game of the NFL in 1967, the Lions are one of only four teams yet to qualify for a Super Bowl. The others Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
are: the Houston Texans (established 2002), the Jacksonville Jaguars (established 1995), and the Cleveland Browns.In fact, in the last 53 years the Detroit Lions have only qualified for the playoffs nine times. Since the NFL expanded to 32 teams in 2002, the Lions are the only NFC team not to make the playoffs. The Lions have not had a winning season since 2000, and unless they win six straight to end this season, that streak will continue. And if that’s not enough for you, the Lions are the only team in NFL history to go 0-16 in Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
a season—that is quite pathetic.The Lions are considered one of the worst franchises in all of sports. So why am I bringing up all these inadequacies of the Lions franchise? Because it's time to change tradition.Continue Reading...
are: the Houston Texans (established 2002), the Jacksonville Jaguars (established 1995), and the Cleveland Browns.In fact, in the last 53 years the Detroit Lions have only qualified for the playoffs nine times. Since the NFL expanded to 32 teams in 2002, the Lions are the only NFC team not to make the playoffs. The Lions have not had a winning season since 2000, and unless they win six straight to end this season, that streak will continue. And if that’s not enough for you, the Lions are the only team in NFL history to go 0-16 in Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
a season—that is quite pathetic.The Lions are considered one of the worst franchises in all of sports. So why am I bringing up all these inadequacies of the Lions franchise? Because it's time to change tradition.Continue Reading...
2010年12月15日星期三
Washington Redskins Wave Goodbye to Playoff Hopes With Latest Loss
Grant Halverson/Getty ImagesIt is time to face the fact that the Washington Redskins are, once again, not as good as advertised.New GM, new coach, new offense, new defense, new quarterback—same stale, ineffective offense and streaky defense.After losing to the Minnesota Vikings, the Redskins are third in the division and have a slew of teams ahead of them in the ever-changing playoff picture.The Redskins are not going to the playoffs this year, plain and simple.Any team at 5-6 would be crazy to consider themselves playoff contenders. The only 5-6 teams with any chance at the playoffs right now are the Rams and Seahawks by virtue of being atop a terrible NFC West.Redskins Insider Jason Reid highlights the similarity between this season and the 2007 season where Washington overcame a 5-7 record to finish 9-7 and sneak into the playoffs as a Wild Card.The Redskins are on track to match that 5-7 record as they face the Giants next week, but they lack the proper avenue to recreate the results of Saints jersey
that season.Washington cannot bank on a tragedy to compel them into action like Sean Taylor's death did in 2007.Losing Taylor was indeed tragic, but it fueled an emotional run to the playoffs for the Redskins that made headlines.Matthew Stockman/Getty ImagesTaylor's Miami brethren were noticeably moved each and every week they stepped on the field. Santana Moss and Clinton Portis played great in the final three games, producing a combined 632 yards and six touchdowns with their respective tributes put on full display.But that was an improbable run to finish the season, one that only the Chargers seem capable of doing year in and year out.The final four games of 2007 offered the perfect storm of opponents for Washington.The Bears were fighting the Super Bowl hangover/curse and finished 7-9.The Vikings were overachieving on all sides of the ball and finished 8-8.The Cowboys phoned in the game en route to a first-round bye and home field advantage in the playoffs.The Giants were beaten thoroughly, and ultimately won the Super Bowl that year, but didn't look like champs in the game against Washington.The only way the Redskins can hope to capture lightning again is to have Donovan McNabb knocked out for an injury against Tampa Bay, and have Rex Grossman draw on his "experience" in Kyle Shanahan's offense to outplay the final four opponents.What about this team says anything better than .500?Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesThe only real similarities between this season and 2007 is the outdated head coach and a midseason shellacking at the hands of a playoff contender.There is no magic to this season.There was no real emotion to any of their wins or losses.If it takes losing a player to get the team in gear, I'll take the losing record.A team so laden with veterans should not make the mistakes the Redskins are making.The mere presence of experience doesn't equate to success, and the Redskins are learning that lesson the hard way.The 2007 season Bills jersey
featured 11 rushing touchdowns from Portis, as well as a top 10 defense, coupled with the unexpected performance of Todd Collins.This year's defense is allowing the most yards in the NFL, the offense is the worst in the NFL in third down conversion percentage and there is no sense of urgency in the locker room or on the field.Washington is playing like a defeated team at the first sign of adversity in their games.Reid closed his piece with the perfect quote to sum up the comparison between 2007 and this season."It's a different team and a different time, so you can't just hang your hat on that," he said. "It's a totally different situation."How will the Redskins finish the final five games?How will the Redskins finish the final five games?5-020.0%4-19.0%3-227.0%2-3 or worse44.0%Total votes: 100Fletcher was part of that 2007 Redskins team and has been around long enough to know that it doesn't matter what you've done in the past but what you're doing now that matters.Three Super Bowls in another decade mean nothing to a team that has one playoff win in 10 years.Two Super Bowl wins for Mike Shanahan mean nothing when he was fired from his last NFL head coaching job.The Redskins have too much going against them this season to make it into the playoffs.They have wins over Chicago and Green Bay, but lost to Detroit and Minnesota.The Bears are 8-3 atop the NFC North having gone 4-0 since losing to Washington, and the Packers are 7-4 having gone 4-2 since losing to Washington.The Redskins are 1-3 since beating Chicago and 2-4 since beating Green Bay.Detroit and Minnesota, as well as St. Louis and Houston, have losing records on the season.Ahead of Washington in the playoff race are the 9-2 Falcons, 8-3 Saints, 7-4 Buccaneers, 7-4 Giants and 7-4 Eagles.The NFC South is likely to send three playoff representatives while the NFC West and the once highly touted NFC East may just send their division champions.Even the NFC East is seemingly out of reach at this point in the season.After being dismantled by the Eagles, the Redskins dropped to 2-1 in the division with two meetings with New York and one with Dallas remaining.The Giants have shown the ability to dominate in some weeks and stumble in others.They are 2-2 since the bye, having blown out Seattle, but losing to division rivals Dallas and Philadelphia.The Cowboys are 3-8 but playing better offensively with Jason Garrett serving has head coach since Wade Phillips was fired.Washington will need to sweep the Giants, beat Dallas a second time, beat Tampa Bay, while hoping the Eagles, Packers and Saints fall apart over the rest of the season.Too much has to go right for the Redskins, who have proven capable of doing everything wrong in even the seemingly easiest of games.This season has been nothing if not surprising.None of the teams that won their division last season are currently leading their division this season.Two teams Bears jersey
went undefeated into December of last season, but every team has lost at least two games before December has started this season.The Colts are on pace to win less than 12 games for the first time since 2002, which says a lot about this season compared to seasons past.As surprising as this season has been, the Redskins are not going to surprise anyone with a late season push to the playoffs. They don't have any momentum and have too many obstacles to overcome in the next five games.There's always next year, though, which is the standard attitude for many of the Redskins faithfuls around this time of year.
that season.Washington cannot bank on a tragedy to compel them into action like Sean Taylor's death did in 2007.Losing Taylor was indeed tragic, but it fueled an emotional run to the playoffs for the Redskins that made headlines.Matthew Stockman/Getty ImagesTaylor's Miami brethren were noticeably moved each and every week they stepped on the field. Santana Moss and Clinton Portis played great in the final three games, producing a combined 632 yards and six touchdowns with their respective tributes put on full display.But that was an improbable run to finish the season, one that only the Chargers seem capable of doing year in and year out.The final four games of 2007 offered the perfect storm of opponents for Washington.The Bears were fighting the Super Bowl hangover/curse and finished 7-9.The Vikings were overachieving on all sides of the ball and finished 8-8.The Cowboys phoned in the game en route to a first-round bye and home field advantage in the playoffs.The Giants were beaten thoroughly, and ultimately won the Super Bowl that year, but didn't look like champs in the game against Washington.The only way the Redskins can hope to capture lightning again is to have Donovan McNabb knocked out for an injury against Tampa Bay, and have Rex Grossman draw on his "experience" in Kyle Shanahan's offense to outplay the final four opponents.What about this team says anything better than .500?Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesThe only real similarities between this season and 2007 is the outdated head coach and a midseason shellacking at the hands of a playoff contender.There is no magic to this season.There was no real emotion to any of their wins or losses.If it takes losing a player to get the team in gear, I'll take the losing record.A team so laden with veterans should not make the mistakes the Redskins are making.The mere presence of experience doesn't equate to success, and the Redskins are learning that lesson the hard way.The 2007 season Bills jersey
featured 11 rushing touchdowns from Portis, as well as a top 10 defense, coupled with the unexpected performance of Todd Collins.This year's defense is allowing the most yards in the NFL, the offense is the worst in the NFL in third down conversion percentage and there is no sense of urgency in the locker room or on the field.Washington is playing like a defeated team at the first sign of adversity in their games.Reid closed his piece with the perfect quote to sum up the comparison between 2007 and this season."It's a different team and a different time, so you can't just hang your hat on that," he said. "It's a totally different situation."How will the Redskins finish the final five games?How will the Redskins finish the final five games?5-020.0%4-19.0%3-227.0%2-3 or worse44.0%Total votes: 100Fletcher was part of that 2007 Redskins team and has been around long enough to know that it doesn't matter what you've done in the past but what you're doing now that matters.Three Super Bowls in another decade mean nothing to a team that has one playoff win in 10 years.Two Super Bowl wins for Mike Shanahan mean nothing when he was fired from his last NFL head coaching job.The Redskins have too much going against them this season to make it into the playoffs.They have wins over Chicago and Green Bay, but lost to Detroit and Minnesota.The Bears are 8-3 atop the NFC North having gone 4-0 since losing to Washington, and the Packers are 7-4 having gone 4-2 since losing to Washington.The Redskins are 1-3 since beating Chicago and 2-4 since beating Green Bay.Detroit and Minnesota, as well as St. Louis and Houston, have losing records on the season.Ahead of Washington in the playoff race are the 9-2 Falcons, 8-3 Saints, 7-4 Buccaneers, 7-4 Giants and 7-4 Eagles.The NFC South is likely to send three playoff representatives while the NFC West and the once highly touted NFC East may just send their division champions.Even the NFC East is seemingly out of reach at this point in the season.After being dismantled by the Eagles, the Redskins dropped to 2-1 in the division with two meetings with New York and one with Dallas remaining.The Giants have shown the ability to dominate in some weeks and stumble in others.They are 2-2 since the bye, having blown out Seattle, but losing to division rivals Dallas and Philadelphia.The Cowboys are 3-8 but playing better offensively with Jason Garrett serving has head coach since Wade Phillips was fired.Washington will need to sweep the Giants, beat Dallas a second time, beat Tampa Bay, while hoping the Eagles, Packers and Saints fall apart over the rest of the season.Too much has to go right for the Redskins, who have proven capable of doing everything wrong in even the seemingly easiest of games.This season has been nothing if not surprising.None of the teams that won their division last season are currently leading their division this season.Two teams Bears jersey
went undefeated into December of last season, but every team has lost at least two games before December has started this season.The Colts are on pace to win less than 12 games for the first time since 2002, which says a lot about this season compared to seasons past.As surprising as this season has been, the Redskins are not going to surprise anyone with a late season push to the playoffs. They don't have any momentum and have too many obstacles to overcome in the next five games.There's always next year, though, which is the standard attitude for many of the Redskins faithfuls around this time of year.
2010年12月13日星期一
NFL's Crunch Time: Predictions for the Crucial Week 13 Showdowns
Gregory Shamus/Getty ImagesNote: the quotes in this article are fictional.New Orleans @ Cincinnati (+7)The Saints have won four straight after Thanksgiving's 30-27 win in Dallas, a win made possible when Malcolm Jenkins stripped Roy Williams of the ball as Williams approached the end zone after a long catch and run. The turnover led to Drew Brees' touchdown pass to Lance Moore, and the Saints held on for the win."We pride ourselves on taking the ball by force," said defensive coordinator Gregg Williams. "We've got a history of 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey White jersey
it, therefore 'the wrest is history.' And it doesn't happen by accident. Everyone is familiar with the blocking sled as a common piece of practice equipment. Here in the Big Easy, we've made the 'Stripper Pole' famous as a teaching tool."The Bengals have now lost eight in a row, by far the league's longest losing streak, and have been plagued by inconsistency on both sides of the ball. It's been a precipitous fall by the team that dominated the AFC North last year, sweeping all six division games."There'll be no 'sweep' this year," said Chad Ochocinco, "although there are rumors of other forms of 'house cleaning.' Now, as a Twitter-fiend, even I'm stunned at Steve Johnson's communication with God via a Tweet. I guess that's what you call 'heaven sent.' Johnson has obviously taken prayer to a new, modern-day, application. What's he reading? The 'Nu' Testament? Heck, what's Steve gonna do when he meets his maker? Chest bump Him?" This game should go like most Bengals games. They'll start off okay, with maybe a three-and-out stop on the Saints first possession, and they'll probably post a field goal to take a quick lead. That's when the Bengals coaching, leadership, and playmaking skills usually kick in. It's all Saints day after that.Matt Sullivan/Getty ImagesBrees throws for 256 yards and 3 scores, and Chris Ivory rushes for a score to salt away the victory, then celebrates to his new theme song, Fleetwood Mac's "Tusk."New Orleans wins, 27-17.Cleveland @ Miami (-4½)The Dolphins won their fifth road game of the year, beating the Raiders 33-17 in Oakland last week to improve their record to 6-5, three games behind the Jets and Patriots in the AFC East. Unfortunately, the 'Fins now have to head home to Sun Life Stadium, where they are 1-4 this year, to face the 4-7 Browns."We're like the trusty vacuum cleaner you grew up with," Tony Sparano said. "We suck at home. But we don't have 'problems at home' like the Miami Heat, in that my players don't whine about me, and I can yell at my players and not expect any guff. And incidental contact between a coach and player is not news here. Heck, my quarterbacks are so fragile, if I grazed shoulders with one of 4 Brett Favre White jersey
my team leaders, then I'd have another QB with a dislocated shoulder."Jake Delhomme threw for 245 yards, but tossed 2 interceptions, in the Browns' narrow 24-23 win over Delhomme's former team, the Panthers, last week. Delhomme's final interception was returned 37 yards for a touchdown by Captain Munnerlyn, and John Kasay's field goal gave the Panthers the lead before Phil Dawson's 41-yard field goal won it for the Browns.Al Bello/Getty Images"It's too bad Jake didn't throw the game-winning touchdown pass," Eric Mangini said. "Then, he could have said, with no irony in his voice, 'I just cost the Panthers the game.'But it was a costly win. No, we didn't lose an important player to injury. We're paying Delhomme $7 million a year, and that's the first win in which he's started. Thus, that win cost us $7 million. If we could have gone 16-0, I'd be able to say, in good conscious, 'we got our money's worth.'"Colt McCoy is still nursing a high ankle sprain, so Delhomme will start again, which should greatly hasten McCoy's recovery time. Heck, he's already gone from 'doubtful' to 'probable ... to enter the game in the third quarter after Delhomme's third interception.'Miami defensive coordinator Mike Nolan orders the 'Fins to stack the line of scrimmage and stop Peyton Hillis, the other white Peyton, who's on pace to make Josh McDaniels look even more stupid for trading him. With Hillis controlled, Delhomme is forced to beat Miami, but has more success beating Cleveland.Miami wins, 30-19. Washington @ NY Giants (-7½)The Giants were the only NFC East team to win last week, beating the Jaguars 24-20 to move back into a tie with the Eagles, losers to Chicago, at 7-4. New York played a turnover-free game, which surely thrilled Tom Coughlin, and now host the Redskins, who, at 5-6, are still in the division race.Grant Halverson/Getty Images"Just one month ago," Tom Coughlin said, "we were being hailed as the NFC's best team. Just the other day, I was giving my team hell at halftime. There's 'super', and then there's 'stupor.' You know you've given your team a good chewing out when they respond, and you need a toothpick afterwards."Donovan McNabb and the Redskins realize a loss would, in all likelihood, end their playoff chances. A loss would leave them with a 5-7 record and on the outside looking in for a playoff season in which a 10-6 record might not be good enough."There's definitely a sense of urgency here," McNabb said. "It's like our entire season has come down to a two-minute drill, and I have to navigate this team through five remaining games and engineer a victory in each. That's asking a lot, but so is a $78 million contract. I bet a portion of that could buy a pretty decent running game."Coughlin wastes no time, and gives his players a good reaming before the game. The Giants come out blazing, sacking McNabb 3 times in the Redskins' first three possessions. Eli Manning throws 2 touchdown passes, and Coughlin works up to a smile, which he quickly pushes away, as the Giants win, 27-13.Jacksonville @ Tennessee (-3)The Titans' season continues to spiral downward, as a 20-0 loss in Houston left Tennessee at 5-6 and in danger of a colossal team-wide meltdown. The signing of Randy Moss has paid few if any dividends, Jeff Fisher and owner Bud Adams can't agree on the fate of Vince Young, and Cortland Finnegan was fined $25,000 for fighting Andre Johnson last week.Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images"On the plus side," Jeff Fisher said, "I can honestly say that Moss is the least of my worries. Besides, he's great to have around in a time of crisis. He has a great deal of experience in that area. I realize communication hasn't been one of our strong points. Now, if Bud Adams wants to sit down and talk things over, I'll gladly attend a meeting he's not invited to.As for Finnegan, after taking the long arm of Johnson, he got the short end of Steelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
the stick. I have no problem with Finnegan's fine, but to penalize Johnson the same amount is ludicrous. Finnegan didn't even throw a punch. He did, however, score points in the next vote for the NFL's dirtiest player. Cortland's the guy you 'love to hate' if he's on the other team. If he's on your side, you 'hate to love' him."The Jags lost a winnable game in the New Meadowlands, falling 24-20 to the Giants, despite racking up 207 yards on the ground. A win would have given Jacksonville the lead in the AFC South, due to Indy's loss to the Chargers last Sunday night."I hear it's either Rusty Smith or Kerry Collins at quarterback for the Titans," said Jack Del Rio. "So we don't know what we'll get. Jeff Fisher says the same thing every week, and he knows who's starting. I know the Titans have dealt with a lot of controversy, but I know Fisher, and he'll have his team prepared. Hopefully, they will be prepared for the worst."Collins gets the start, and Moss makes his first touchdown catch as a Titan. Chris Johnson, after rushing for "V" yards against the Titans, re-examines his goals for the season, and vows to rush for "K" yards instead of 2.5 "K." Needing only 27 yards to reach that milestone, he does so easily, and adds 88 more, plus a touchdown.Doug Pensinger/Getty ImagesTennessee wins, 27-21.Chicago @ Detroit (+3)Jay Cutler, in maybe his best game as a Bear, passed for 4 touchdowns, with no interceptions, to lead Chicago to a 31-26 win over the Eagles, delighting a raucous Soldier Field crowd, and Cutler likely replaced Rex Grossman in the hearts of many Bears' fans. It was the Bears' eighth win of the season, but only their third over a team with a winning record."Beating teams with winning records is overrated," Cutler said. "That's why God created the NFC West, where a losing record is winning the division. And if He, in fact, didn't create the NFC West, I'm sure He'll Tweet me and let me know.But I think Mike Martz and I are finally on the same wavelength. Together, we make a perfect pair. A self-proclaimed genius needs a thick-skulled protégé, and we both fit the bill. Now, this Chicago team has faced its share of adversity and overcome it. I assume that's why many people are saying 'it's all downhill from here.'"The Lions had their own "toast of the town" in their 45-24 Thanksgiving loss to the Patriots, defensive back Alphonso Smith, who was repeatedly burned by Patriots receivers."I'd like to apologize," Smith said, "to all Thanksgiving turkeys for outshining them on their special day and becoming the biggest turkey of them all. Those turkeys shouldn't complain, though, because they only got burned once."They call this a "trap game." I'm not sure who "they" is, but "they" should know that the Lions have their traps set, and they're loaded for "Bear."Calvin Johnson catches 8 passes for 135 yards and 2 touchdowns, and the Lions defense steps up, forcing 2 Cutler turnovers.Detroit wins, 22-20.Buffalo @ Minnesota (-6½)The Leslie Frazier era in Minnesota got off to a mildly impressive start, as the Vikings held on for a gutsy 17-13 win over the Redskins in Washington. After the game, Brett Favre presented Frazier with the game ball, and his address in Mississippi, just in case Frazier needs to make a house call come July."If you watched the game," Favre said, "you probably saw my 10-yard scramble on 3rd-and-8 that helped preserve our win. Gosh, if Frazier would have been our coach last year, maybe I would have made the same play against the Saints in the NFC Championship Game."Now, with Leslie, the lines of communication are wide-open, and I love playing for a coach with a female's name. That's bitchin'. I got rid of one of my problems, Brad Childress, but the Jenn Sterger situation lingers. I sent one packing, and I sent the other a 'package.' I expect a ruling any day now from the NFL for my 'text-ile dysfunction.'"The Bills lost their third overtime game of the season, falling 16-13 to the Steelers. Wide receiver Steve Johnson dropped what would have been the game-winning 40-yard touchdown pass from Ryan Fitzpatrick, and the Steelers won on their following possession."I've heard of '40 acres and a mule,'" Chan Gailey said, "but this must be a case of '40 yards and a goat.' Now, you've probably heard that Johnson blamed God for his mistake on his Twitter account. I guess he wasn't kidding when he said he had 'no one to blame but Himself.' Suddenly, Vince Young's apology to Jeff Fisher via Twitter doesn't seem so impersonal, or stupid."Minnesota wins, 26-23.Denver @ Kansas City (-7)Since smashing the Chiefs in Denver on November 14th, the Broncos have lost two straight and surrendered 71 points in those two defeats. Now Denver faces a hot Chiefs team, which has won two in a row after the loss to the Broncos, and Kansas City is averaging 36 points in those two games."Not only do the Broncos have the NFL to pay," Todd Haley said, "they also have 'hell' to pay. We haven't forgotten what they did to us three weeks ago. Unlike the NFL, we plan to 'come down hard' on the Broncos. We're more than prepared. We've had a great week of practice, and just in case the Broncos are filming, I've yelled 'Action!' at the beginning of each practice."Josh McDaniels' tenure in Denver may be waning, as an underperforming team and some questionable trades have him on the hot seat. In addition, McDaniels and the Broncos were fined a combined $100,000 for secretly taping part of a 49ers practice in London, an infraction McDaniels didn't immediately report."Alfred E. Neumann may have said 'What, me worry?'" McDaniels said. "My mantra is 'What, me hurry?'"What would a coaching move in Denver be called? 'Chump change,' of course. And my personal $50,000 fine is no 'chump change.' What's the sequel to our videotape of the 49ers? It's called Things to Do in Denver When You're (in the) Red.Of course, my fate as coach may be the only excitement left in Denver for the year. The NBA's Nuggets may have a ''Melo-drama' on their hands; we've got simply a melodrama."This is a game Haley will not let the Chiefs lose. Not if pride has anything to do with it. Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones combine for 209 yards rushing, and Dwayne Bowe catches a touchdown pass for the eighth consecutive game, then treats Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
his teammates to some exotic imports from the Far East.Kansas City wins, 41-19. Haley graciously extends his hand to McDaniels afterwards and shouts "That's a wrap!" On Monday, Denver's Pat Bowlen says "Cut!"San Francisco @ Green Bay (-8)The Packers suffered a heartbreaking 20-17 loss in Atlanta, knocking Green Bay out of a tie for first in the NFC North. Now the Packers turn their attention to the 49ers."Are we still in position to win the North?" Aaron Rodgers said. "Of course we are. The Bears still have to come to Green Bay, plus they have remaining home games against the Jets and Patriots. Do we want to win the division? Maybe. Sure, it would guarantee a playoff spot, but there's something to be said for taking the NFC's sixth seed. What sounds better? A home game against, say, the Eagles or Giants? Or a road game against the Seahawks or Rams? I think the answer is clear. Our manifest destiny tells me to 'Go West, young man.'"The 49ers whipped the Cardinals 27-6 last Monday night, improving to 4-7, one game behind the Rams and Seahawks in the NFC West."Boy, did we really need a win," Mike Singletary said. "We came ready to play, and so did the Cardinals, or at least Derek Anderson did. That kid really knows how to 'yuck' it up.Our win came at an opportune time. Seattle lost and St. Louis won, thus allowing us to be a game out of the division lead. So, I guess timing is everything. I should know. As a coach, I've had three job-saving wins already this year."Aaron Rodgers throws for 3 touchdowns, and Clay Matthews sacks Troy Smith twice, and forces 1 fumble, then ends a drunken celebration in a downtown Green Bay hair salon, where he gets a perm.Green Bay wins, 30-20.Oakland @ San Diego (-13)The Chargers stayed hot on the tails of the Chiefs in the AFC West race, knocking out the Colts and Peyton Manning 36-14 to remain one game behind Kansas City. San Diego used a bruising running game, rushing for 129 yards, and defense, with 2 interceptions returned for touchdowns, to go home with their fourth straight win."'Martyball' is back," said Philip Rivers. "You're welcome, Dan Marino.""Now, we may have to make our stretch run without Vincent Jackson. Vincent strained his calf just three plays in to the Indy game, and we may be without him for two more weeks. Apparently, 'without him' is a lot like being 'with him.' Of course, we still have to pay him, and general manager A.J. Smith will make those checks payable to 'Vincent Price.'"The Raiders have dropped two straight after pulling to within one game of the AFC West lead after beating the Chiefs three weeks ago. Now Oakland is two games behind the Chiefs, with a date against the red hot Chargers in San Diego."Bruce Gradkowski has a separated shoulder," said Tom Cable, "so Jason Campbell will be our starter, likely for the rest of the year. As Auburn quarterbacks go, he's no Cam Newton, although he has accepted lots of money to play football. Who knows? Newton could be a Raider one day, should Al Davis fall in love with another Southeastern Conference quarterback. What is it about SEC quarterbacks and the Raiders? Are SEC QB's overrated, or is our scout department overrated?"Chargers win, 30-21.Dallas @ Indianapolis (-5)What's wrong with the Colts? Indy has dropped two straight, and Peyton Manning has thrown 7 interceptions in the two losses. What's more, he's been outplayed in consecutive games by Tom Brady and Philip Rivers, the two quarterbacks often mentioned in the same breath with Manning as the NFL's best."In that case," Manning said, "I'll take several breaths before I mention the name 'Jon Kitna.' 'Jon' Kitna? I'll not only ask 'Who the 'H' is John Kitna?' But also, 'Where's the 'H' in 'Jon,' Kitna?"As for my recent play, I don't make excuses, just adjustments, and commercials. I could take the easy way out and blame God for my problems, but I choose not to.Trust me, I know the mistakes I've made without viewing the film. But I will view the film, all videotaped legally, of course.Now, did you hear 'boos' Sunday night inside Lucas Oil Stadium? You sure did. Those were obviously piped in by the Chargers."The Cowboys lost 30-27 on Thanksgiving to the Saints, and at 3-8 can only have an impact on the playoffs as a spoiler."Upon taking over as head coach," Jason Garrett said, "the first thing I told my guys was to strive to 'be somebody.' Well, if that 'somebody' is 'spoiler,' then we'll be the best spoilers we can be. We're obviously more comfortable in a supporting role, as opposed to a leading role. So, call us an Oscar favorite, because we're surely not a Super Bowl favorite."Can the Colts turn things around? Of course they can, and what better team to do it against than the Cowboys. There's a AFC South division crown waiting for the Colts at the end of their rainbow, and a second-round playoff trip to somewhere cold.Manning scorches the Cowboys secondary, when he has time to throw, for 290 yards and 3 touchdowns, and Adam Vinatieri kicks the game-winning field goal.Colts win, 37-34.St. Louis @ Arizona (+3)The Rams are back in first in the NFC West after a 36-33 win in Denver, led by Sam Bradford's 308 yards and 3 touchdowns. St. Louis is tied with Seattle for the division lead at 5-6, with the 4-7 Cardinals waiting in the wings."I've always been intrigued," Bradford said, "by the Tim Tebow phenomenon. The stands at Invesco Field are full of Tebow's No. 15 shirts. It's really cool when the fans wearing Tebow gear do the wave; it's even cooler that they call it the 'Jersey Shore.'"That's two games in a row in which the Broncos scored on the game's opening possession, then lost. That's the 'score first, ask questions later' philosophy, to which, answers are hard to come by."The Cardinals are 3-8, and while by no means out of the division race in the West, a late-season run to glory seems highly unlikely. Inconsistent quarterback play has been the catalyst for Arizona's troubles, and rumors are swirling that Larry Fitzgerald may want out of Arizona."I'd be long gone and smelling like a rose," Fitzgerald said, "if it were as simple as Calgon taking me away. But it's not. I'm stuck with Derek, or should I say 'Dreck,' Anderson. As you know, Anderson was seen laughing on the bench with us down 24-6. Well, I've been asking him all year to 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
'humor me,' but this is not what I had in mind."Rams win, 27-17.Carolina @ Seattle (-6)While the Seahawks are in a battle for the NFC West lead, tied with the Rams at 5-6 atop the division, the Panthers are a lowly 1-10 and in last place in the NFC South. The two squads will do battle at Qwest Field in a rematch of the 2005 NFC championship game, won 34-14 by the Seahawks."When I vowed at the beginning of the year to 'build a foundation,'" said John Fox, "being 'solidly at the bottom' of the division is not exactly what I had in mind."While the Seahawks were making their Super Bowl run, Pete Carroll was at USC, handing out scholarships like they were going out of style, and sidestepping NCAA rules."You'll have to pardon me if I don't remember Seattle's magical Super Bowl run," Carroll said. "Most likely, I was 'looking the other way.' But we're working on our own magic here in Seattle right now. Turning a 5-6 team into a playoff qualifier? Now that's magic."Seattle wins, 21-16.Atlanta @ Tampa Bay (+3)The Falcons took another step towards the NFC South crown, and possibly one or more home playoff games, with a 20-17 win over the Packers last week. Atlanta now heads to Tampa to face the Bucs, who are seeking revenge for a 27-21 loss to the Falcons in Week 9."Raheem Morris may overestimate the Bucs," Matt Ryan said, "but we have to guard against underestimating them, especially after our big win over the Packers. You just never know what will go down in Tampa. Quite often, 'ship' happens."The Bucs lost a hotly contested 17-10 game in Baltimore, and need a win to stay firmly in the wild card playoff picture."As they say in Tampa," said Morris, "revenge is a dish best served in seasonal, 70-degree weather, with a warm breeze coming off the ocean from the southwest."It's touch and go, and the game is tied at 20 with 1:35 left in the fourth quarter when the Falcons begin a drive at their on 14. 1:33 later, Matt Bryant kicks a 46-yard field goal to win the game.Atlanta wins, 23-20.Pittsburgh @ Baltimore (-3)The Steelers, 16-13 overtime winners in Buffalo last week, seek revenge for Week 4's 17-14 loss at home to the Ravens. Sunday night's matchup is for the outright AFC North lead, and could have critical seeding implications down the road."The win in Buffalo wasn't pretty," said Ben Roethlisberger, "but we'll take it. And if Steve Johnson can blame God for his drop, then we can legitimately thank God for the win. If that's so, then the Bills got 'divinity schooled.' Now, I've been in a walking cast all week, treating a sprained foot I suffered last week. But I plan to play on Sunday. And that's something I'm sure Brett Favre can appreciate. Not only a fellow quarterback playing injured, but also the picture of a 'little booty' that I texted him."The Ravens tuned up for the Steelers with a tough 17-10 win over Tampa in Baltimore, buoyed by a defense that held the Bucs to 263 yards of total offense."As rivalries go," said Ray Lewis, "this may be the NFL's best. We hate the Steelers; they hate us. Many rivalries are built on mutual respect. Not this one. A question often asked in regards to this rivalry is the same question often asked by Roethlisberger, usually in a locked bathroom — 'where's the love?'But the hits will be plentiful, as will trips into the red zone. When all is said and done, we'll have answers to questions such as 'who is the AFC North's best team?' And 'can Roethlisberger's foot hold up?' And 'can James Harrison afford to tackle anyone?'"With a gimpy Roethlisberger playing behind a shaky offensive line, the Ravens should be able to pressure Big Ben. Tackling him is the hard part. The sooner they do it, the less their defensive backs have to cover.Baltimore wins, 24-19. NY Jets @ New England (-3½)Monday night's winner of the Jets-Patriots clash takes sole possession of the AFC East lead, as well as the inside track to home-field advantage in the playoffs. Both teams were impressive in Thanksgiving Day victories, as the Patriots overpowered the Lions 45-24, while the Jets subdued the Bengals, 26-10."This may be the most-watched Monday Night Football game of all -ime," Tom Brady said. "As opposed to last week's 49ers/Cardinals game, which was the most-tolerated Monday Night Football game of all-time.As you may know, my son with Bridget Moynahan has the initials 'J.E.T.' Not surprisingly, we call him 'Jet' for short. Now, his mother is against corporal punishment, but I have no problem spanking Jet's ass. That doesn't make me a bad father; it makes me a Patriot. Now, Rex Ryan would rather 'kick' than 'spank' ass. And he's not afraid to say it. We'll see if he can back that ass-talk up."While the Patriots are guided by the subdued leadership of Bill Belichick, the Jets are led by the boisterous direction of Rex Ryan, who isn't against proclaiming his Jets as the NFL's best team."The foundations of Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
this team are built on physical play," Ryan said. "If there was a horse that could hold me, I'd mount that steed and ride through New England myself, declaring 'The brutish are coming! The brutish are coming!"But what really excites me is the touch of Mark Sanchez. Was that out loud? I'm comfortable enough with my manhood to say that. Was that out loud? This may be the only time I have to tell myself to shut up."Jets win, 27-24
it, therefore 'the wrest is history.' And it doesn't happen by accident. Everyone is familiar with the blocking sled as a common piece of practice equipment. Here in the Big Easy, we've made the 'Stripper Pole' famous as a teaching tool."The Bengals have now lost eight in a row, by far the league's longest losing streak, and have been plagued by inconsistency on both sides of the ball. It's been a precipitous fall by the team that dominated the AFC North last year, sweeping all six division games."There'll be no 'sweep' this year," said Chad Ochocinco, "although there are rumors of other forms of 'house cleaning.' Now, as a Twitter-fiend, even I'm stunned at Steve Johnson's communication with God via a Tweet. I guess that's what you call 'heaven sent.' Johnson has obviously taken prayer to a new, modern-day, application. What's he reading? The 'Nu' Testament? Heck, what's Steve gonna do when he meets his maker? Chest bump Him?" This game should go like most Bengals games. They'll start off okay, with maybe a three-and-out stop on the Saints first possession, and they'll probably post a field goal to take a quick lead. That's when the Bengals coaching, leadership, and playmaking skills usually kick in. It's all Saints day after that.Matt Sullivan/Getty ImagesBrees throws for 256 yards and 3 scores, and Chris Ivory rushes for a score to salt away the victory, then celebrates to his new theme song, Fleetwood Mac's "Tusk."New Orleans wins, 27-17.Cleveland @ Miami (-4½)The Dolphins won their fifth road game of the year, beating the Raiders 33-17 in Oakland last week to improve their record to 6-5, three games behind the Jets and Patriots in the AFC East. Unfortunately, the 'Fins now have to head home to Sun Life Stadium, where they are 1-4 this year, to face the 4-7 Browns."We're like the trusty vacuum cleaner you grew up with," Tony Sparano said. "We suck at home. But we don't have 'problems at home' like the Miami Heat, in that my players don't whine about me, and I can yell at my players and not expect any guff. And incidental contact between a coach and player is not news here. Heck, my quarterbacks are so fragile, if I grazed shoulders with one of 4 Brett Favre White jersey
my team leaders, then I'd have another QB with a dislocated shoulder."Jake Delhomme threw for 245 yards, but tossed 2 interceptions, in the Browns' narrow 24-23 win over Delhomme's former team, the Panthers, last week. Delhomme's final interception was returned 37 yards for a touchdown by Captain Munnerlyn, and John Kasay's field goal gave the Panthers the lead before Phil Dawson's 41-yard field goal won it for the Browns.Al Bello/Getty Images"It's too bad Jake didn't throw the game-winning touchdown pass," Eric Mangini said. "Then, he could have said, with no irony in his voice, 'I just cost the Panthers the game.'But it was a costly win. No, we didn't lose an important player to injury. We're paying Delhomme $7 million a year, and that's the first win in which he's started. Thus, that win cost us $7 million. If we could have gone 16-0, I'd be able to say, in good conscious, 'we got our money's worth.'"Colt McCoy is still nursing a high ankle sprain, so Delhomme will start again, which should greatly hasten McCoy's recovery time. Heck, he's already gone from 'doubtful' to 'probable ... to enter the game in the third quarter after Delhomme's third interception.'Miami defensive coordinator Mike Nolan orders the 'Fins to stack the line of scrimmage and stop Peyton Hillis, the other white Peyton, who's on pace to make Josh McDaniels look even more stupid for trading him. With Hillis controlled, Delhomme is forced to beat Miami, but has more success beating Cleveland.Miami wins, 30-19. Washington @ NY Giants (-7½)The Giants were the only NFC East team to win last week, beating the Jaguars 24-20 to move back into a tie with the Eagles, losers to Chicago, at 7-4. New York played a turnover-free game, which surely thrilled Tom Coughlin, and now host the Redskins, who, at 5-6, are still in the division race.Grant Halverson/Getty Images"Just one month ago," Tom Coughlin said, "we were being hailed as the NFC's best team. Just the other day, I was giving my team hell at halftime. There's 'super', and then there's 'stupor.' You know you've given your team a good chewing out when they respond, and you need a toothpick afterwards."Donovan McNabb and the Redskins realize a loss would, in all likelihood, end their playoff chances. A loss would leave them with a 5-7 record and on the outside looking in for a playoff season in which a 10-6 record might not be good enough."There's definitely a sense of urgency here," McNabb said. "It's like our entire season has come down to a two-minute drill, and I have to navigate this team through five remaining games and engineer a victory in each. That's asking a lot, but so is a $78 million contract. I bet a portion of that could buy a pretty decent running game."Coughlin wastes no time, and gives his players a good reaming before the game. The Giants come out blazing, sacking McNabb 3 times in the Redskins' first three possessions. Eli Manning throws 2 touchdown passes, and Coughlin works up to a smile, which he quickly pushes away, as the Giants win, 27-13.Jacksonville @ Tennessee (-3)The Titans' season continues to spiral downward, as a 20-0 loss in Houston left Tennessee at 5-6 and in danger of a colossal team-wide meltdown. The signing of Randy Moss has paid few if any dividends, Jeff Fisher and owner Bud Adams can't agree on the fate of Vince Young, and Cortland Finnegan was fined $25,000 for fighting Andre Johnson last week.Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images"On the plus side," Jeff Fisher said, "I can honestly say that Moss is the least of my worries. Besides, he's great to have around in a time of crisis. He has a great deal of experience in that area. I realize communication hasn't been one of our strong points. Now, if Bud Adams wants to sit down and talk things over, I'll gladly attend a meeting he's not invited to.As for Finnegan, after taking the long arm of Johnson, he got the short end of Steelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
the stick. I have no problem with Finnegan's fine, but to penalize Johnson the same amount is ludicrous. Finnegan didn't even throw a punch. He did, however, score points in the next vote for the NFL's dirtiest player. Cortland's the guy you 'love to hate' if he's on the other team. If he's on your side, you 'hate to love' him."The Jags lost a winnable game in the New Meadowlands, falling 24-20 to the Giants, despite racking up 207 yards on the ground. A win would have given Jacksonville the lead in the AFC South, due to Indy's loss to the Chargers last Sunday night."I hear it's either Rusty Smith or Kerry Collins at quarterback for the Titans," said Jack Del Rio. "So we don't know what we'll get. Jeff Fisher says the same thing every week, and he knows who's starting. I know the Titans have dealt with a lot of controversy, but I know Fisher, and he'll have his team prepared. Hopefully, they will be prepared for the worst."Collins gets the start, and Moss makes his first touchdown catch as a Titan. Chris Johnson, after rushing for "V" yards against the Titans, re-examines his goals for the season, and vows to rush for "K" yards instead of 2.5 "K." Needing only 27 yards to reach that milestone, he does so easily, and adds 88 more, plus a touchdown.Doug Pensinger/Getty ImagesTennessee wins, 27-21.Chicago @ Detroit (+3)Jay Cutler, in maybe his best game as a Bear, passed for 4 touchdowns, with no interceptions, to lead Chicago to a 31-26 win over the Eagles, delighting a raucous Soldier Field crowd, and Cutler likely replaced Rex Grossman in the hearts of many Bears' fans. It was the Bears' eighth win of the season, but only their third over a team with a winning record."Beating teams with winning records is overrated," Cutler said. "That's why God created the NFC West, where a losing record is winning the division. And if He, in fact, didn't create the NFC West, I'm sure He'll Tweet me and let me know.But I think Mike Martz and I are finally on the same wavelength. Together, we make a perfect pair. A self-proclaimed genius needs a thick-skulled protégé, and we both fit the bill. Now, this Chicago team has faced its share of adversity and overcome it. I assume that's why many people are saying 'it's all downhill from here.'"The Lions had their own "toast of the town" in their 45-24 Thanksgiving loss to the Patriots, defensive back Alphonso Smith, who was repeatedly burned by Patriots receivers."I'd like to apologize," Smith said, "to all Thanksgiving turkeys for outshining them on their special day and becoming the biggest turkey of them all. Those turkeys shouldn't complain, though, because they only got burned once."They call this a "trap game." I'm not sure who "they" is, but "they" should know that the Lions have their traps set, and they're loaded for "Bear."Calvin Johnson catches 8 passes for 135 yards and 2 touchdowns, and the Lions defense steps up, forcing 2 Cutler turnovers.Detroit wins, 22-20.Buffalo @ Minnesota (-6½)The Leslie Frazier era in Minnesota got off to a mildly impressive start, as the Vikings held on for a gutsy 17-13 win over the Redskins in Washington. After the game, Brett Favre presented Frazier with the game ball, and his address in Mississippi, just in case Frazier needs to make a house call come July."If you watched the game," Favre said, "you probably saw my 10-yard scramble on 3rd-and-8 that helped preserve our win. Gosh, if Frazier would have been our coach last year, maybe I would have made the same play against the Saints in the NFC Championship Game."Now, with Leslie, the lines of communication are wide-open, and I love playing for a coach with a female's name. That's bitchin'. I got rid of one of my problems, Brad Childress, but the Jenn Sterger situation lingers. I sent one packing, and I sent the other a 'package.' I expect a ruling any day now from the NFL for my 'text-ile dysfunction.'"The Bills lost their third overtime game of the season, falling 16-13 to the Steelers. Wide receiver Steve Johnson dropped what would have been the game-winning 40-yard touchdown pass from Ryan Fitzpatrick, and the Steelers won on their following possession."I've heard of '40 acres and a mule,'" Chan Gailey said, "but this must be a case of '40 yards and a goat.' Now, you've probably heard that Johnson blamed God for his mistake on his Twitter account. I guess he wasn't kidding when he said he had 'no one to blame but Himself.' Suddenly, Vince Young's apology to Jeff Fisher via Twitter doesn't seem so impersonal, or stupid."Minnesota wins, 26-23.Denver @ Kansas City (-7)Since smashing the Chiefs in Denver on November 14th, the Broncos have lost two straight and surrendered 71 points in those two defeats. Now Denver faces a hot Chiefs team, which has won two in a row after the loss to the Broncos, and Kansas City is averaging 36 points in those two games."Not only do the Broncos have the NFL to pay," Todd Haley said, "they also have 'hell' to pay. We haven't forgotten what they did to us three weeks ago. Unlike the NFL, we plan to 'come down hard' on the Broncos. We're more than prepared. We've had a great week of practice, and just in case the Broncos are filming, I've yelled 'Action!' at the beginning of each practice."Josh McDaniels' tenure in Denver may be waning, as an underperforming team and some questionable trades have him on the hot seat. In addition, McDaniels and the Broncos were fined a combined $100,000 for secretly taping part of a 49ers practice in London, an infraction McDaniels didn't immediately report."Alfred E. Neumann may have said 'What, me worry?'" McDaniels said. "My mantra is 'What, me hurry?'"What would a coaching move in Denver be called? 'Chump change,' of course. And my personal $50,000 fine is no 'chump change.' What's the sequel to our videotape of the 49ers? It's called Things to Do in Denver When You're (in the) Red.Of course, my fate as coach may be the only excitement left in Denver for the year. The NBA's Nuggets may have a ''Melo-drama' on their hands; we've got simply a melodrama."This is a game Haley will not let the Chiefs lose. Not if pride has anything to do with it. Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones combine for 209 yards rushing, and Dwayne Bowe catches a touchdown pass for the eighth consecutive game, then treats Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
his teammates to some exotic imports from the Far East.Kansas City wins, 41-19. Haley graciously extends his hand to McDaniels afterwards and shouts "That's a wrap!" On Monday, Denver's Pat Bowlen says "Cut!"San Francisco @ Green Bay (-8)The Packers suffered a heartbreaking 20-17 loss in Atlanta, knocking Green Bay out of a tie for first in the NFC North. Now the Packers turn their attention to the 49ers."Are we still in position to win the North?" Aaron Rodgers said. "Of course we are. The Bears still have to come to Green Bay, plus they have remaining home games against the Jets and Patriots. Do we want to win the division? Maybe. Sure, it would guarantee a playoff spot, but there's something to be said for taking the NFC's sixth seed. What sounds better? A home game against, say, the Eagles or Giants? Or a road game against the Seahawks or Rams? I think the answer is clear. Our manifest destiny tells me to 'Go West, young man.'"The 49ers whipped the Cardinals 27-6 last Monday night, improving to 4-7, one game behind the Rams and Seahawks in the NFC West."Boy, did we really need a win," Mike Singletary said. "We came ready to play, and so did the Cardinals, or at least Derek Anderson did. That kid really knows how to 'yuck' it up.Our win came at an opportune time. Seattle lost and St. Louis won, thus allowing us to be a game out of the division lead. So, I guess timing is everything. I should know. As a coach, I've had three job-saving wins already this year."Aaron Rodgers throws for 3 touchdowns, and Clay Matthews sacks Troy Smith twice, and forces 1 fumble, then ends a drunken celebration in a downtown Green Bay hair salon, where he gets a perm.Green Bay wins, 30-20.Oakland @ San Diego (-13)The Chargers stayed hot on the tails of the Chiefs in the AFC West race, knocking out the Colts and Peyton Manning 36-14 to remain one game behind Kansas City. San Diego used a bruising running game, rushing for 129 yards, and defense, with 2 interceptions returned for touchdowns, to go home with their fourth straight win."'Martyball' is back," said Philip Rivers. "You're welcome, Dan Marino.""Now, we may have to make our stretch run without Vincent Jackson. Vincent strained his calf just three plays in to the Indy game, and we may be without him for two more weeks. Apparently, 'without him' is a lot like being 'with him.' Of course, we still have to pay him, and general manager A.J. Smith will make those checks payable to 'Vincent Price.'"The Raiders have dropped two straight after pulling to within one game of the AFC West lead after beating the Chiefs three weeks ago. Now Oakland is two games behind the Chiefs, with a date against the red hot Chargers in San Diego."Bruce Gradkowski has a separated shoulder," said Tom Cable, "so Jason Campbell will be our starter, likely for the rest of the year. As Auburn quarterbacks go, he's no Cam Newton, although he has accepted lots of money to play football. Who knows? Newton could be a Raider one day, should Al Davis fall in love with another Southeastern Conference quarterback. What is it about SEC quarterbacks and the Raiders? Are SEC QB's overrated, or is our scout department overrated?"Chargers win, 30-21.Dallas @ Indianapolis (-5)What's wrong with the Colts? Indy has dropped two straight, and Peyton Manning has thrown 7 interceptions in the two losses. What's more, he's been outplayed in consecutive games by Tom Brady and Philip Rivers, the two quarterbacks often mentioned in the same breath with Manning as the NFL's best."In that case," Manning said, "I'll take several breaths before I mention the name 'Jon Kitna.' 'Jon' Kitna? I'll not only ask 'Who the 'H' is John Kitna?' But also, 'Where's the 'H' in 'Jon,' Kitna?"As for my recent play, I don't make excuses, just adjustments, and commercials. I could take the easy way out and blame God for my problems, but I choose not to.Trust me, I know the mistakes I've made without viewing the film. But I will view the film, all videotaped legally, of course.Now, did you hear 'boos' Sunday night inside Lucas Oil Stadium? You sure did. Those were obviously piped in by the Chargers."The Cowboys lost 30-27 on Thanksgiving to the Saints, and at 3-8 can only have an impact on the playoffs as a spoiler."Upon taking over as head coach," Jason Garrett said, "the first thing I told my guys was to strive to 'be somebody.' Well, if that 'somebody' is 'spoiler,' then we'll be the best spoilers we can be. We're obviously more comfortable in a supporting role, as opposed to a leading role. So, call us an Oscar favorite, because we're surely not a Super Bowl favorite."Can the Colts turn things around? Of course they can, and what better team to do it against than the Cowboys. There's a AFC South division crown waiting for the Colts at the end of their rainbow, and a second-round playoff trip to somewhere cold.Manning scorches the Cowboys secondary, when he has time to throw, for 290 yards and 3 touchdowns, and Adam Vinatieri kicks the game-winning field goal.Colts win, 37-34.St. Louis @ Arizona (+3)The Rams are back in first in the NFC West after a 36-33 win in Denver, led by Sam Bradford's 308 yards and 3 touchdowns. St. Louis is tied with Seattle for the division lead at 5-6, with the 4-7 Cardinals waiting in the wings."I've always been intrigued," Bradford said, "by the Tim Tebow phenomenon. The stands at Invesco Field are full of Tebow's No. 15 shirts. It's really cool when the fans wearing Tebow gear do the wave; it's even cooler that they call it the 'Jersey Shore.'"That's two games in a row in which the Broncos scored on the game's opening possession, then lost. That's the 'score first, ask questions later' philosophy, to which, answers are hard to come by."The Cardinals are 3-8, and while by no means out of the division race in the West, a late-season run to glory seems highly unlikely. Inconsistent quarterback play has been the catalyst for Arizona's troubles, and rumors are swirling that Larry Fitzgerald may want out of Arizona."I'd be long gone and smelling like a rose," Fitzgerald said, "if it were as simple as Calgon taking me away. But it's not. I'm stuck with Derek, or should I say 'Dreck,' Anderson. As you know, Anderson was seen laughing on the bench with us down 24-6. Well, I've been asking him all year to 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
'humor me,' but this is not what I had in mind."Rams win, 27-17.Carolina @ Seattle (-6)While the Seahawks are in a battle for the NFC West lead, tied with the Rams at 5-6 atop the division, the Panthers are a lowly 1-10 and in last place in the NFC South. The two squads will do battle at Qwest Field in a rematch of the 2005 NFC championship game, won 34-14 by the Seahawks."When I vowed at the beginning of the year to 'build a foundation,'" said John Fox, "being 'solidly at the bottom' of the division is not exactly what I had in mind."While the Seahawks were making their Super Bowl run, Pete Carroll was at USC, handing out scholarships like they were going out of style, and sidestepping NCAA rules."You'll have to pardon me if I don't remember Seattle's magical Super Bowl run," Carroll said. "Most likely, I was 'looking the other way.' But we're working on our own magic here in Seattle right now. Turning a 5-6 team into a playoff qualifier? Now that's magic."Seattle wins, 21-16.Atlanta @ Tampa Bay (+3)The Falcons took another step towards the NFC South crown, and possibly one or more home playoff games, with a 20-17 win over the Packers last week. Atlanta now heads to Tampa to face the Bucs, who are seeking revenge for a 27-21 loss to the Falcons in Week 9."Raheem Morris may overestimate the Bucs," Matt Ryan said, "but we have to guard against underestimating them, especially after our big win over the Packers. You just never know what will go down in Tampa. Quite often, 'ship' happens."The Bucs lost a hotly contested 17-10 game in Baltimore, and need a win to stay firmly in the wild card playoff picture."As they say in Tampa," said Morris, "revenge is a dish best served in seasonal, 70-degree weather, with a warm breeze coming off the ocean from the southwest."It's touch and go, and the game is tied at 20 with 1:35 left in the fourth quarter when the Falcons begin a drive at their on 14. 1:33 later, Matt Bryant kicks a 46-yard field goal to win the game.Atlanta wins, 23-20.Pittsburgh @ Baltimore (-3)The Steelers, 16-13 overtime winners in Buffalo last week, seek revenge for Week 4's 17-14 loss at home to the Ravens. Sunday night's matchup is for the outright AFC North lead, and could have critical seeding implications down the road."The win in Buffalo wasn't pretty," said Ben Roethlisberger, "but we'll take it. And if Steve Johnson can blame God for his drop, then we can legitimately thank God for the win. If that's so, then the Bills got 'divinity schooled.' Now, I've been in a walking cast all week, treating a sprained foot I suffered last week. But I plan to play on Sunday. And that's something I'm sure Brett Favre can appreciate. Not only a fellow quarterback playing injured, but also the picture of a 'little booty' that I texted him."The Ravens tuned up for the Steelers with a tough 17-10 win over Tampa in Baltimore, buoyed by a defense that held the Bucs to 263 yards of total offense."As rivalries go," said Ray Lewis, "this may be the NFL's best. We hate the Steelers; they hate us. Many rivalries are built on mutual respect. Not this one. A question often asked in regards to this rivalry is the same question often asked by Roethlisberger, usually in a locked bathroom — 'where's the love?'But the hits will be plentiful, as will trips into the red zone. When all is said and done, we'll have answers to questions such as 'who is the AFC North's best team?' And 'can Roethlisberger's foot hold up?' And 'can James Harrison afford to tackle anyone?'"With a gimpy Roethlisberger playing behind a shaky offensive line, the Ravens should be able to pressure Big Ben. Tackling him is the hard part. The sooner they do it, the less their defensive backs have to cover.Baltimore wins, 24-19. NY Jets @ New England (-3½)Monday night's winner of the Jets-Patriots clash takes sole possession of the AFC East lead, as well as the inside track to home-field advantage in the playoffs. Both teams were impressive in Thanksgiving Day victories, as the Patriots overpowered the Lions 45-24, while the Jets subdued the Bengals, 26-10."This may be the most-watched Monday Night Football game of all -ime," Tom Brady said. "As opposed to last week's 49ers/Cardinals game, which was the most-tolerated Monday Night Football game of all-time.As you may know, my son with Bridget Moynahan has the initials 'J.E.T.' Not surprisingly, we call him 'Jet' for short. Now, his mother is against corporal punishment, but I have no problem spanking Jet's ass. That doesn't make me a bad father; it makes me a Patriot. Now, Rex Ryan would rather 'kick' than 'spank' ass. And he's not afraid to say it. We'll see if he can back that ass-talk up."While the Patriots are guided by the subdued leadership of Bill Belichick, the Jets are led by the boisterous direction of Rex Ryan, who isn't against proclaiming his Jets as the NFL's best team."The foundations of Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
this team are built on physical play," Ryan said. "If there was a horse that could hold me, I'd mount that steed and ride through New England myself, declaring 'The brutish are coming! The brutish are coming!"But what really excites me is the touch of Mark Sanchez. Was that out loud? I'm comfortable enough with my manhood to say that. Was that out loud? This may be the only time I have to tell myself to shut up."Jets win, 27-24
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