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General => General Discussion => Topic started by: black_biff_stadler on June 20, 2016, 09:01:05 PM
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Probably not, considering the fact that the west still has a shitload of fire power at the top between the Warriors, Thunder, and Spurs (whether or not Tim Duncan returns, they're still good for 50 wins any season as long as Popovich is there), plus Toronto might be one key free agent acquisition away from making next season's ECF a real coinflip. On top of this, they've really gotta figure out Kevin Love in a hurry cuz, unless he was just struggling to recover fully from the concussion, he's barely even a role player at times the way their system works.
It is interesting, though, to see how Lebron's first two seasons back with the Cavs have gone just like they did with the Heat by losing a finals, then winning one. It'd be kinda awesome to see a historical have-not like the Cavs have their own dynasty plus seeing how GOAT debates go if LBJ ends up getting another couple titles. If he miraculously gets to six, MJ worshipers and LBJ critics will desperately cling to the "BUT JAWDIN WUZ UNDEFEATED IN DA FINALZ!!!!" horseshit while they completely ignore how many times he lost in prior playoff rounds compared to LBJ hypothetically winning ten ECFs if he were to eventually get six titles.
Back to the west. It really seems like a three horse race for who'll make it to the finals next year. The Spurs, Thunder, and Warriors all still have to show weakness of some kind before anyone can credibly say any of them aren't a viable contender to come out of the west. I can maybe see the Blazers or Rockets emerging as a fourth contender but I think that's a lot to ask from a team with someone as divisive as Harden and someone as streaky as Howard. Blazers really seem to be poised to be the next man up. The Clippers have the talent to be in the conversation but they really seem to be stuck in neutral and appear very lacking of mental toughness.
In the east the Raptors impressed me a lot with how well they hung with the Cavs. Demar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry are a formidable shooting duo and can really carry them. Any lucky break for them against the Cavs like a bad injury or them acquiring a great third option in free agency could help them sneak into the finals.
The Hornets will be very entertaining too. They really came on strong this past season and could be entering a nice five year window of legit title contention. Hopefully Jeremy Lin blossoms into the player he showed flashes of with the Knicks and then decides to stay there.
Wizards are quite the enigma. They've seemingly been on the cusp of better things for like three years now but keep faltering. This year very likely isn't theirs but if they can at least get to the conference semis it'll do wonders for their future outlook. Otherwise, don't be surprised to see John Wall head for greener pasteurs when the chance comes.
I honestly didn't see enough Celtics games to judge them well enough but they have a young smart coach and seem to be on the upswing. It'd be cool to see more great clashes between them and the Lakers in a few years if D'Angelo Russell can resurrect that dumpster fire.
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A new thread already? :lol Okay...
Back to the west. It really seems like a three horse race for who'll make it to the finals next year. The Spurs, Thunder, and Warriors all still have to show weakness of some kind before anyone can credibly say any of them aren't a viable contender to come out of the west. I can maybe see the Blazers or Rockets emerging as a fourth contender but I think that's a lot to ask from a team with someone as divisive as Harden and someone as streaky as Howard. Blazers really seem to be poised to be the next man up. The Clippers have the talent to be in the conversation but they really seem to be stuck in neutral and appear very lacking of mental toughness.
I agree with all of that, except the Rockets. I think they will start to decline, or at least always be a "low-tier playoff" team that gets to the playoffs on the basis of their talent, but never really accomplishes much of anything noteworthy once getting there. I like the Blazers' chances of being the next team up. And what you said about the top 3 absolutely rings true. I mean, picking the top 3 seeds immediately after a playoffs and saying they should be the tops next year is a no-brainer and often doesn't pan out. But in this case, these three teams have a proven track record and do not appear to be going away. The one interesting potential monkey wrench is Durant. Where he goes could shake things up significantly. I am also interested in seeing what the Warriors do. They have already talked about making some changes. I think their starting lineup will remain mostly intact. But I think they will cut ties with Barnes. They love him. But I think he was already being considered for the chopping block anyway, and he had such a nonproductive season in a contract year that I think it will be the end for him. I also expect changes on the bench. But we will see.
It is interesting, though, to see how Lebron's first two seasons back with the Cavs have gone just like they did with the Heat by losing a finals, then winning one. It'd be kinda awesome to see a historical have-not like the Cavs have their own dynasty plus seeing how GOAT debates go if LBJ ends up getting another couple titles.
Interesting. I hadn't made those two connections. I don't think Cleveland cares, but it would be nice for them to get another one that doesn't have a "*" attached to it. The thing with LeBron is, whether he is THE greatest of all time will I think always be up for debate. But honestly, anyone who tries to argue that he isn't in the discussion is delusional.
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I think the Raptors should re-sign Bismack, then explore the trade market for Jonas. Bismack is a much better fit because he's a great defensive player who can hugely impact games without getting the ball, whereas Jonas needs the ball, and simply won't ever get it as long as Lowry and DeRozan are around. If Toronto can flip Jonas into a couple of really good role players, one wing and one big, I think they'll be in nice shape.
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Dwight Howard is opting out of his contract. I bet he goes back East.
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Oh forget about Dwight, Dirk Nowitzki has opted out!!!
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If James stays in Cleveland, everyone in the East is just fighting for 2nd place. Should be interesting to see who get when they inevitably get rid of Kevin Love. Free agents never want to go to Cleveland, but many will sacrifice a year or two in a crappy city to have a shot at a ring.
Should also be interesting to see what happens with Kevin Durant.
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Durant to the Warriors is looking like more than a pipe dream now.
https://www.nbasocial.com/rumors/kevin-durant-prefers-joining-golden-state-warriors-leaves-okc/
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I think the Raptors should re-sign Bismack, then explore the trade market for Jonas. Bismack is a much better fit because he's a great defensive player who can hugely impact games without getting the ball, whereas Jonas needs the ball, and simply won't ever get it as long as Lowry and DeRozan are around. If Toronto can flip Jonas into a couple of really good role players, one wing and one big, I think they'll be in nice shape.
I read that DeRozan will be exploring free agency so the Raptor might need to consider a lot of options if they want to reach another conference finals
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A new era begins in Chicago...... and perhaps in NY....
The Knicks have acquired former All-Star point guard Derrick Rose from the Bulls, the teams announced Wednesday.
The Knicks trade center Robin Lopez, guard Jose Calderon and guard Jerian Grant to Chicago, which shipped guard Justin Holiday, Rose and a 2017 second-round pick back to New York.
https://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/16427840/new-york-knicks-acquire-derrick-rose-chicago-bulls
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The Atlanta Hawks are sending guard Jeff Teague to the Indiana Pacers as part of a three-way deal that includes the Utah Jazz, a source confirmed to ESPN's Jeff Goodman.
Point guard George Hill will go from the Pacers to the Jazz, and Utah will send the No. 12 pick in Thursday's draft to Atlanta.
https://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/16426696/indiana-pacers-get-jeff-teague-3-team-trade-atlanta-hawks-utah-jazz
Oh, and not to triple post... it seems that the Sixers and Lakers have already made it known who they intend on drafting tomorrow night. Hoping that it works out for both teams. Both players have a lot of potential.
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https://www.foxsports.com/nba/story/stephen-curry-golden-state-warriors-finals-mvp-worst-ever-062016
Cliffnotes: Curry had the worst NBA finals of any reigning MVP ever.
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Derrick Rose is now with the Knicks. Melo and Rose playing on the same team is really something for fans to get excited about.......8 years ago.
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While I don't think Rose will ever get back to his MVP caliber performances due to his injuries, I think he will be a great asset for the team. Him and Kristaps Porzingis (love saying that name) will be a fun duo to watch.
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Has there ever been a less impactful star than Carmelo Anthony? 13 NBA seasons and he has been past the 1st round...twice. :rollin :rollin :rollin
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Just for fun, how about we rank the top NBA players ever currently. I think the top 12 are obvious, so here goes...
1. Michael Jordan
2. LeBron James
3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
4. Bill Russell
5. Larry Bird
6. Magic Johnson
7. Tim Duncan
8. Wilt Chamberlain
9. Shaquille O'Neal
10. Oscar Robertson
11. Hakeem Olajuwon
12. Kobe Bryant
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Ima do a top 20 since i couldnt just do a top ten lol
1. Michael Jordan
2. Bill Russell
3. Kareem Abdul Jabbar
4. Wilt Chamberlain
5. Larry Bird
6. Magic Johnson
7. Tim Duncan
8. Hakeem Olajuwon
9. Kobe Bryant
10. Shaq
11. Oscar Robertson
12. Julius Erving
13. LeBron James
14. Jerry West
15. Moses Malone
16. David Robinson
17. Karl Malone
18. Walt Frazier
19. John Stockton
20. George Gervin
The only difficulty for my list was debating where to place Bird/Magic. The greatest player rivalry ever, and such respect between the two
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1.Michael Jordan
2.LeBron James
3.Kareem Abdul Jabbar
4.Magic Johnson
5.Tim Duncan
6.Bill Russell
7.Larry Bird
8.Wilt Chamberlain
9.Shaq
10.Hakeem Olajuwon
11.Oscar Robertson
12.Kobe Bryant
13.Jerry West
14.Julius Erving
15.David Robinson
16.Karl Malone
17.John Stockton
18. Dwyane Wade
19.Moses Malone
20.Walt Fraizer
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Just to be clear: This is a list of the players who, off the top of my head, I would most want on my team if I get them at the beginning of their career and have them through the end.
1. Jordan
2. Kareem
3. LeBron
4. Magic
5. Bird
6. Russell
7. Wilt
8. Duncan
9. Shaq
10. Hakeem
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Other than the Thunder, Spurs and Warriors are the first teams to secure meetings with Kevin Durant.
OMG. If the Spurs can get their hands on Durant....You'll have Duncan, Leonard, Aldridge, Parker, AND Durant as your starting five....Green, Ginobli, Diaw, Mills as next man up....just..... :omg:
Im expecting Durant to re-sign with the Thunder, but a Spurs fan can dream!
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Other than the Thunder, Spurs and Warriors are the first teams to secure meetings with Kevin Durant.
OMG. If the Spurs can get their hands on Durant....You'll have Duncan, Leonard, Aldridge, Parker, AND Durant as your starting five....Green, Ginobli, Diaw, Mills as next man up....just..... :omg:
Im expecting Durant to re-sign with the Thunder, but a Spurs fan can dream!
Not really, they have to let green and someone else go to make enough cap room. And I'm also not sure Manu and Tim will be back for another season.
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Yep, Duncan looked at the end of the road in the playoffs.
And all of that flopping Ginobili does is bound to be worse on his body as he gets older... :lol :lol
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Let me get up in this new thread!
The Dipo for Ibaka trade is a very interesting one. Wonder how Durant feels about it? Impossible to judge right now, really... but it will definitely be a difference maker (good? bad? both?) once the playoffs arrive. Here's Zach Lowe on the particulars if you're interested:
https://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/16480955/breaking-other-side-ibaka-oladipo-trade
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Oladipo is one of the best guards in the league on defense, and considering Golden State is the hurdle they need to get over, having a guy like him, who has the skills and quickness to bug Curry and Thompson on those 3's, is an upgrade in that regard. He's not a great scorer, but still a slight upgrade offensively over Dion Waiters at SG. I like the trade for OKC, assuming Durant stays of course.
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There you go Vogel! He is able to pry away longtime Spurs assistant coach Chad Forcier to be his top assistant. Well done! I look forward to seeing the Magic improving.
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With Jim Buss still in charge, the Lakers are like the Rodney Dangerfield in basketball... we don't get no respect, nobody wants to come, stars don't even want to meet with us... lol! :lol :| :\ :facepalm: :'(
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Because the Laker brand being important is a thing of the past. The NBA is a stars-driven league, not one driven by big markets. The NBA doesn't need LA, Chicago, Boston or NY to be great to generate high interest, and recent history has shown that.
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Because the Laker brand being important is a thing of the past. The NBA is a stars-driven league, not one driven by big markets. The NBA doesn't need LA, Chicago, Boston or NY to be great to generate high interest, and recent history has shown that.
True, and I don't entirely disagree with that view. Still, some players enjoy that big city lifestyle.
On the other hand, I think Jim Buss being in charge is another factor driving players away too.
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It looks like Timofey Mozgov and the Lakers have agreed on a 4-year $64M deal.
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You can't even write this shit.
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Reports are saying KD is "blown away" by the Clippers after their 4-hour meeting... KD, please, anywhere but the Clippers! :sadpanda:
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I think, when it is all said and done, Durant stays with OKC, likely signing a two-year deal with an opt-out after next year.
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Celtics bringing in Brady for the Durant meeting. Funny thing a local radio guy tweeted out, "HOLY CRAP, THEY BROUGHT OLYNYK"! :lol
(https://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/kingshmegland/IMG_20160702_155056_zpshfokgmzx.jpg) (https://s583.photobucket.com/user/kingshmegland/media/IMG_20160702_155056_zpshfokgmzx.jpg.html)
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Everybody knows you only get one franchise-changing Kevin via free agency per lifespan of a franchise. Stay in your lane, Boston.
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And all of that flopping Ginobili does is bound to be worse on his body as he gets older... :lol :lol
Ginobli heard you and says "I'm flopping for one more year"
https://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/16733221/manu-ginobili-return-next-season-expected-re-sign-san-antonio-spurs
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Rondo to the Bulls?! Have fun with him, Chicago.
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Especially when everyone left to join the Knicks :lol
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DURANT TO THE WARRIORS
OH
MY
GOD
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Holy crap. Man they will be unstoppable.
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They should win 78 games, although it's hard to imagine them losing four. :lol
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Wow! Will we get to see the LeBrons vs. the Dubs in the Finals for a third time in a row?
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Horrible. I was hoping he would choose the Cs, or stay with OKC. This makes everything incredibly unbalanced. On the other side, how ling is this gonna last? At some point Curry, Clay and Green should get max contracts and the Dubs won't be able to pay all of those.
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Horrible. I was hoping he would choose the Cs, or stay with OKC. This makes everything incredibly unbalanced. On the other side, how ling is this gonna last? At some point Curry, Clay and Green should get max contracts and the Dubs won't be able to pay all of those.
It is most likely a one-year rental. I guess all parties will look at how things go after next season.
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Klay Thompson is now the 4th best player on the Warriors. Think about that. :eek :eek
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Horrible. I was hoping he would choose the Cs, or stay with OKC. This makes everything incredibly unbalanced. On the other side, how ling is this gonna last? At some point Curry, Clay and Green should get max contracts and the Dubs won't be able to pay all of those.
It is most likely a one-year rental. I guess all parties will look at how things go after next season.
Two years with a player option on the second one.
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It is most likely a one-year rental. I guess all parties will look at how things go after next season.
Two years with a player option on the second one.
I know, but that's exactly my point. Whether KD would exercise his player option in the second remains to be seen. He could still very well leave and return to OKC after this one season.
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I know, but that's exactly my point. Whether KD would exercise his player option in the second remains to be seen. He could still very well leave and return to OKC after this one season.
That would be extremely weird.
On other news , the Spurs get Gasol for 2 years and there are several rumors that Duncan may finally call it a day.
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If the Spurs are signing Pau now, I strongly believe Duncan has made his retirement decision.
On the flip side of the KD free agency, and perhaps RW to be leaving next... now is the best time to move the Sonics back to Seattle, lol!! :biggrin:
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I'm sweating with the news of Gasol. The last time I saw Timmy play live was in Orlando six years ago. I was hoping to catch him one last time out here in LA.
I want him to stay one more year, but as a fan, that's me being selfish. Timmy has given so much to this team, and he had stayed faithful to San Antonio. He could have left the Spurs and played with T-Mac in Orlando back in the early 2000s. He didn't, and won five rings in San Antonio.
I'm anxious for the next few days to come.
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As a fan, Durant to the Warriors makes me a little nervous because it could make the league extremely predictable for the foreseeable future (Golden State could legitimately reel off three or four straight titles). That said, kudos to him. I think he made a great choice and I doubt he'll regret it. He deserves a situation like this after so many years in a good, but frustrating organization.
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Kinda sucks for the Cavs' fans that as soon as it appeared that they were on track to make a legitimate run at a dynasty since they had cleared the two biggest hurdles of 1) having abysmal scumbag ownership that couldn't have made it any more obvious that they were just gonna take the money and run while refusing to acquire key teammates for LBJ during his first 7 years there and 2) losing LBJ in 2010, that now they're likely gonna have to sign another top-level free agent to have any real chance against the KD edition of the Warriors.
I like Kevin Love but this year's finals showed they could play at a very high level even with him being a nonfactor for large stretches of time. That doesn't bode very well for his future there considering how difficult it was to incorporate him into some of their schemes. Considering how he wasted away on the Wolves for a while, it'd be unfortunate to see him go another 2 or 3 seasons into his career without being on a team where he can both contend and be a definite go-to guy.
If he ends up looking like an overpriced role player, this could significantly hurt his trade value. Now might be the time to make a move even though it'd be disappointing wondering what might've been had they found a way to fully utilize his skills in their system.
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As a fan, Durant to the Warriors makes me a little nervous because it could make the league extremely predictable for the foreseeable future (Golden State could legitimately reel off three or four straight titles). That said, kudos to him. I think he made a great choice and I doubt he'll regret it. He deserves a situation like this after so many years in a good, but frustrating organization.
Can't believe the league denied the Chris Paul to the Lakers deal several years back, but not this. :lol
But honestly I don't understand this deal from any angle. From the Warriors' perspective, they add yet ANOTHER jump shooter (that doesn't do Durant justice, but that's primarily what he is) to an already successful formula. From Durant's perspective, any potential championships he wins with GS are cheapened by the fact that all he's doing is joining an already proven, complete championship team. And he took a big pay cut! I've never really questioned the notion that winning is KD's priority, but I can't help but think that winning like this would just seem empty in the eyes of those evaluating his legacy.
-J
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As a fan, Durant to the Warriors makes me a little nervous because it could make the league extremely predictable for the foreseeable future (Golden State could legitimately reel off three or four straight titles). That said, kudos to him. I think he made a great choice and I doubt he'll regret it. He deserves a situation like this after so many years in a good, but frustrating organization.
Can't believe the league denied the Chris Paul to the Lakers deal several years back, but not this. :lol
But honestly I don't understand this deal from any angle. From the Warriors' perspective, they add yet ANOTHER jump shooter (that doesn't do Durant justice, but that's primarily what he is) to an already successful formula. From Durant's perspective, any potential championships he wins with GS are cheapened by the fact that all he's doing is joining an already proven, complete championship team. And he took a big pay cut! I've never really questioned the notion that winning is KD's priority, but I can't help but think that winning like this would just seem empty in the eyes of those evaluating his legacy.
-J
Sadly, mainstream basketball analysis is so bad that, at the end of the day, all that will matter is how many rings Durant has on his fingers. In a perfect world, people would evaluate players by breaking them down statistically, determine how many great seasons they had, and make a conclusion based on a dozen or so variables. Instead, people usually take the easier road and just count titles. It really annoys me, but that's the way the world works. :lol
Now, in fairness, if Durant averages 30 PPG next year, competes for the MVP, and then polishes off his season with a great playoffs, he should get full credit.
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I can understand the hate for KD, yet I also think it is kind of unfair to him. He is a smart guy, and money ain't a factor in his decision. So my guess is, he either knows deep down RW won't extend or due to that and could be traded by the deadline. What if RW got traded and he is the only one left? Or, he finally realizes the way OKC handles player personnel, his team won't get much better than last year. IMO, so by signing with the Dubs, he gives himself a great chance to win and grow.
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Can't believe the league denied the Chris Paul to the Lakers deal several years back, but not this. :lol
Why?
The Paul situation was a trade where the league owned one of the teams involved at the time.
The Durant situation is a FREE AGENT choosing where to sign.
Not even remotely close to being comparable.
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What a signing.
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Smart move by Durant and, honestly, the move 99% of us would've made in the same situation.
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But honestly I don't understand this deal from any angle. From the Warriors' perspective, they add yet ANOTHER jump shooter (that doesn't do Durant justice, but that's primarily what he is) to an already successful formula. From Durant's perspective, any potential championships he wins with GS are cheapened by the fact that all he's doing is joining an already proven, complete championship team. And he took a big pay cut! I've never really questioned the notion that winning is KD's priority, but I can't help but think that winning like this would just seem empty in the eyes of those evaluating his legacy.
-J
Eh, I don't really think he cares about a "legacy," and I don't think I would either in today's sports climate. What I mean by that is, I think the criteria used to judge a player's "legacy" in this day and age are bogus and stupid to a great degree. Yeah, it's nice to be viewed in a certain light. But at the end of the day, if people are judging you based on criteria that just aren't important to you, you probably shouldn't end up caring much what they think. Seems to me that that is his thinking.
And I can't agree with those looking down on this move and criticizing him for it. He was on a team where every indication was that he didn't get along with the other superstar at all, and things weren't really working, despite that they were able to have some success. If he was going to leave, what benefit is it to him to go to a lesser team? The Warriors were probably looking to part ways with Barnes this year anyway, so they have a vacancy where KD fits perfectly. As you point out, J, he is a great jump shooter. And he is a great passer and is good at creating space and getting "open." So he fits their offensive model of play perfectly. AND he is a terrific defender, which is the Warriors' true strength (although it is an area where they slipped a bit this year). On paper at least, he is a perfect fit for the Warriors.
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by signing with the Dubs, he gives himself a great chance to win and grow.
Win?..yes.
Grow?..seems he's going to have to take a step back.
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by signing with the Dubs, he gives himself a great chance to win and grow.
Win?..yes.
Grow?..seems he's going to have to take a step back.
How so? There are more skill players on the Warriors to push him, on both offense and defense. And given that their offensive model focuses on ball movement and their defensive model focuses on constantly shifting and switching, I see him upping his game as inevitable.
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by signing with the Dubs, he gives himself a great chance to win and grow.
Win?..yes.
Grow?..seems he's going to have to take a step back.
How so? There are more skill players on the Warriors to push him, on both offense and defense. And given that their offensive model focuses on ball movement and their defensive model focuses on constantly shifting and switching, I see him upping his game as inevitable.
I can see that there's something to that. Maybe take a step back isn't the right choice of words. But I still have a hard time with him growing. I'm sure GS has a great program and all, but he's joining an established squad, whereas I think he would've "grown" even moreso with SA, and even (gasp) the Celtics, where he would truly be relied upon even more. Maybe "take a step back" isn't the right choice of words, but I'm not sure "grow" is either. I'm having trouble grasping that concept.
Just not sure how much Durant has room to "grow". He's pretty advanced as it is.
Maybe I'm a jilted Boston guy :lol but I just don't see GS as a "challenge" for him. He's riding their coat tails where he doesn't have to be the man. That's fine, it's his choice and he earned that right, but my first thought of him going to GS was that it is weak.
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Smart move by Durant and, honestly, the move 99% of us would've made in the same situation.
I don't think that 99% of us would have made the same move.
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Smart move by Durant and, honestly, the move 99% of us would've made in the same situation.
I don't think that 99% of us would have made the same move.
99% of me doesn't really care what people think.
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Smart move by Durant and, honestly, the move 99% of us would've made in the same situation.
I don't think that 99% of us would have made the same move.
99% of me doesn't really care what people think.
Make it 100%..... this is an amazing turn of events for the Warriors. Enjoy it.
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:lol No, I slightly care, so I'll give you 1%.
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Smart move by Durant and, honestly, the move 99% of us would've made in the same situation.
I don't think that 99% of us would have made the same move.
I disagree. He likely had good reason to believe that RW was not going to stay in OKC long term. Without him, not much chance for success in OKC.
So, if he decided to jump, why not jump to the best team available?
I think it's absolutely a great move for him and for the Warriors. Also, the Warriors were apparently going to pursue this move even if they had won the championship, so it's not like this is a knee-jerk reaction to losing for them.
Barring injury, this team has a shot at being one of the best ever. A shot.
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Durant's going to grow with the Warriors, but it's going to be a different kind of growth. I would assume that he will become a better defensive player and passer. He's going to learn how to move off the ball. The one area where he might take a step back, and I don't think this really matters all that much, is as an "alpha dog", so-to-speak. The days of him doing everything for his team are probably gone, at least on average. I'm sure there will be games where he has to completely take over, but it's not going to be necessary over the course of a full season, and so he might become a tad more specialized.
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According to Bleacher Report, Spurs just traded Boris Diaw to the Jazz to secure Pau Gasol's contract. I'm fearful our bench is weakening. Diaw was completely underused last season despite injuries, and in my opinion, was one of our best players, especially off the bench.
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Eh, I don't really think he cares about a "legacy," and I don't think I would either in today's sports climate. What I mean by that is, I think the criteria used to judge a player's "legacy" in this day and age are bogus and stupid to a great degree. Yeah, it's nice to be viewed in a certain light. But at the end of the day, if people are judging you based on criteria that just aren't important to you, you probably shouldn't end up caring much what they think. Seems to me that that is his thinking.
Could not agree more. :tup :tup
Durant shouldn't give two craps what the fans or media think, and it's clear that he does not. Good for him.
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Wow, things are really moving quickly in free agency. I really hope the Warriors keep Varejao. I am bummed for him that he didn't get a ring, given all the years he put in in Cleveland, only to be traded away the year they finally get one. I remember reading before the finals started that, in the event the Cavs were to win it, they had the option to offer him a ring. But I thought at the time, and still feel this way now, that I wouldn't want one under those circumstances if I were him. I mean, yeah, he was on the team this year, and it is within the NBA's rules. But still, it's not like he contributed to them winning the title. He played to prevent them from doing it. So it would seem weird for him to get one from them. I hope he stays with them and they get one next year. I'm just not so sure they are going to keep him, given some of the moves they are making (signing Pachulia and D. West). :(
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Eh, he's an annoying flopper, and didn't deserver a ring for latching on to a great team and making such meager contributions. But hey, that's me. :lol :biggrin:
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For the LeBron fans.
(https://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/kingshmegland/IMG_20160706_160216_zpsgyeqq7ax.jpg) (https://s583.photobucket.com/user/kingshmegland/media/IMG_20160706_160216_zpsgyeqq7ax.jpg.html) :'(
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Not really accurate. But even if it was, so what?
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I could care less. This is not my statement. Some are and I posted it.
Personally I would have loved to have Durant in Boston but I'm no dummy bosk1, he made a smart decision.
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Dwayne Wade is taking his talents to the Windy City
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Can't believe the league denied the Chris Paul to the Lakers deal several years back, but not this. :lol
Why?
The Paul situation was a trade where the league owned one of the teams involved at the time.
The Durant situation is a FREE AGENT choosing where to sign.
Not even remotely close to being comparable.
That was not a serious comment. But the element that is "comparable" is the effect on league parity and small vs big market teams.
Smart move by Durant and, honestly, the move 99% of us would've made in the same situation.
Thinking about it myself, I would not have gone to Golden State for the reasons I stated. This team is already the best in the league as it is; forget about legacy or what the fans think, as a competitor I would not be content to join a championship team to (possibly) win a championship. It would feel empty, the easy way out, and a reminder that I couldn't get it done any other way. And that I preferred not to TRY any other way.
I honestly think Durant just loves playing basketball, and I've never questioned the notion that he values winning over money, glory, etc. All I'm saying is that, as a competitor, I don't understand the mindset of this move from Durant's perspective. From GS's side it is more relatable, though I still don't think I'd have personally made the move.
Durant's going to grow with the Warriors, but it's going to be a different kind of growth. I would assume that he will become a better defensive player and passer. He's going to learn how to move off the ball. The one area where he might take a step back, and I don't think this really matters all that much, is as an "alpha dog", so-to-speak. The days of him doing everything for his team are probably gone, at least on average. I'm sure there will be games where he has to completely take over, but it's not going to be necessary over the course of a full season, and so he might become a tad more specialized.
I mostly agree with this. The disappointing part to me is that he hasn't really EVER been an "alpha dog" in his career, thanks to Westbrook's presence (and Harden for awhile). The "too many cooks in the kitchen" phenomenon will manifest in GS as well, but differently I think. I'd speculate that there won't be many issues with lack of chemistry or team dynamics like there are on a team with Westbrook, but there's still no way we see the Durant we might see on a team of his own, in terms of numbers or otherwise. But maybe he really doesn't care and just wants to play some ball.
-J
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Dwayne Wade is taking his talents to the Windy City
I don't think it is such a great move for the Bulls at all....it is a puzzling move in my opinion...Wade+Rondo+Butler as a trio has the name recognition and looks good on paper...all 3 needs the ball to be effective....if you say they take turn initiating the offense, then you need the other 2 to space the floor...neither Wade nor Rondo shoots 3s...it now means Mirotic almost has to start at the 4 but then you have another weak defender on the floor....I don't think Rondo and Wade are good defenders anymore...and then you have the issue of style....I thought the Bulls wanted to get younger and Hoiberg wanted to install sort of a pace-and-space system....that goes out of the window now....
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Can't believe the league denied the Chris Paul to the Lakers deal several years back, but not this. :lol
Why?
The Paul situation was a trade where the league owned one of the teams involved at the time.
The Durant situation is a FREE AGENT choosing where to sign.
Not even remotely close to being comparable.
That was not a serious comment. But the element that is "comparable" is the effect on league parity and small vs big market teams.
Smart move by Durant and, honestly, the move 99% of us would've made in the same situation.
Thinking about it myself, I would not have gone to Golden State for the reasons I stated. This team is already the best in the league as it is; forget about legacy or what the fans think, as a competitor I would not be content to join a championship team to (possibly) win a championship. It would feel empty, the easy way out, and a reminder that I couldn't get it done any other way. And that I preferred not to TRY any other way.
I honestly think Durant just loves playing basketball, and I've never questioned the notion that he values winning over money, glory, etc. All I'm saying is that, as a competitor, I don't understand the mindset of this move from Durant's perspective. From GS's side it is more relatable, though I still don't think I'd have personally made the move.
Durant's going to grow with the Warriors, but it's going to be a different kind of growth. I would assume that he will become a better defensive player and passer. He's going to learn how to move off the ball. The one area where he might take a step back, and I don't think this really matters all that much, is as an "alpha dog", so-to-speak. The days of him doing everything for his team are probably gone, at least on average. I'm sure there will be games where he has to completely take over, but it's not going to be necessary over the course of a full season, and so he might become a tad more specialized.
I mostly agree with this. The disappointing part to me is that he hasn't really EVER been an "alpha dog" in his career, thanks to Westbrook's presence (and Harden for awhile). The "too many cooks in the kitchen" phenomenon will manifest in GS as well, but differently I think. I'd speculate that there won't be many issues with lack of chemistry or team dynamics like there are on a team with Westbrook, but there's still no way we see the Durant we might see on a team of his own, in terms of numbers or otherwise. But maybe he really doesn't care and just wants to play some ball.
-J
But what a lot of people don't recognize about what makes the Warriors unique is that their team philosophy doesn't really allow for an "alpha dog" mentality. It isn't just that they have a lot of great players. Kerr runs that team so that now matter how good a player is, that player is never thinking in terms of "me" when he is on the court. It is always about team strategy. That manifests itself in their unusual team numbers for assists. It manifests itself in almost unparalleled ball movement. It manifests itself in team defense. It manifests itself in final plays of a game being drawn up for guys like Green, Barnes, Iguodala (i.e. NOT just Curry or Thompson) taking the game-winning shot. It manifests itself in things like Kerr's surprise move at the beginning of the year two seasons ago to ask Iguodala to step down from his role as a starter and be the leader on the second squad to allow the team greater flexibility in rotating players--and in him not only accepting the role graciously, but blossoming into a team leader.
That approach appeals to some players, especially those who can embrace the team philosophy. I don't see it as Durant taking the "easy way out." Just because he has a better shot at a title doesn't mean it's some sort of cop out. This is a different kind of team, and one that will push him and force him to grow in different ways than if he were the alpha dog or one of two (or even three) stars on a team where the team is built around just feeding the ball to the stars. Even if it only lasts a couple of years, I think Durant will look back on it as a great decision and a great time in his basketball career. I really do.
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At the end of crucial playoff games, though, Durant's presence gives Golden State a kind of second alpha-dog. When the threes weren't falling in the latter games of the Finals (particularly Game 7), it was all of a sudden like their offense had no other options. Durant is now a killer "other option" -- conveniently as one of the greatest scorers of all time.
So I get the team ball talk and I'm sure the Warriors in general will be beautiful to watch, but Durant will def have heavy value as an isolation scorer when the playoffs come... and he will be all the more dangerous because teams will not be able to double him very easily due to the presence of Steph and Klay.
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Oh, absolutely. I don't disagree with any of that.
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At the end of crucial playoff games, though, Durant's presence gives Golden State a kind of second alpha-dog. When the threes weren't falling in the latter games of the Finals (particularly Game 7), it was all of a sudden like their offense had no other options. Durant is now a killer "other option" -- conveniently as one of the greatest scorers of all time.
So I get the team ball talk and I'm sure the Warriors in general will be beautiful to watch, but Durant will def have heavy value as an isolation scorer when the playoffs come... and he will be all the more dangerous because teams will not be able to double him very easily due to the presence of Steph and Klay.
According to several NBA talking heads, the options were there for the taking, but the Warriors over-reliance on the 3 bit them in the ass. The Cavs were almost daring them to make a few passes for an easy 2, but Golden St stubbornly wanted to win their win, via the 3.
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^ Right, Kev -- I didn't mean to imply that there were literally no options, just that GS (and Curry in particular) did not want to take them. Maybe Curry was arrogantly wanting the highlight three or maybe he didn't feel as confident with his drive bc of the knee, who knows? But now they have a third go-to guy, so the likelihood that at least one of Durant, Curry, or Klay will be "on" when they need a basket in crucial playoff games is overwhelmingly high -- and Durant is better at the isolation 2 pointer, whether via jumpshot or drive, than even Klay or Steph, so it's going to make them so much more dangerous.
And heaven forbid if Ray Allen comes out of retirement as has been rumored. Can you imagine offense-only possessions with Allen/Klay/Curry/Durant?
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I can't see them picking up Allen. He just doesn't add anything that they don't already have better versions of, and they just don't have the salary cap space to add players they don't need.
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It is official. Timmy retires... thanks for everything, and you sir made those Lakers / Spurs playoffs battles fun to watch! I have nothing but the utmost respect for you and the Spurs organization. Good luck the rest of your life! :hefdaddy :hat
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I'm sad about him retiring but on the other hand I think it was the right time. He did everything he could for his franchise and for the NBA and is without question one of the best players of all time. He should enjoy that now
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Apologies for the lengthy post.
It was the first of November in 1997 in San Antonio, TX. Mom got us tickets to the home opener for the San Antonio Spurs. I was a very excited 10 year old getting to go see my favorite player, "The Admiral," David Robinson, play. We also had come off a very horrible season. All five of starters in that season, including Robinson, Avery Johnson, and Sean Elliot, were out with injuries for most of the '96-'97 season. The morale was high though on this home opener. We had the number one pick in the draft, and picked up this kid from Wake Forest. He was 6'11, had good length, slim, and seemed quiet. I heard he was good though.
That was the understatement of a lifetime.
Tim Duncan. I cannot express enough to what this man means to me not only as fan, but as an athlete, and a man. Tim Duncan played all of his 19 seasons with San Antonio, leading them to 19 consecutive winning seasons, giving the Spurs a .710 wining percentage....that not just the greatest individual winning percentage in NBA history, but in any history of any sport! He became the third player in NBA history to hit 1,000 wins. He was Rookie of the Year. He appeared in 15 All Star Games. 2-time league MVP. 3-time Finals MVP. 5-time CHAMPION.
I could go on and on and on and on about his stats (like being first in post-season double-doubles and blocks), and all his other accolades, but his success was only a part of what was special about Tim Duncan. He is a man who leads his life and led his team with integrity. He was a team first, me-last basketball player in a league full of me-first players. He could have gone to Orlando in 2005 and play with T-Mac, but he decided to stay in San Antonio, and helped evolve the Spurs franchise into one of the greatest organizations in all of sports. He didn't ignore the new players, the rookies. He helped them realize their full potential. Don't believe me? Look how he mentored Kawhi Leonard, who is now a top five player in the league, easily. He dealt with everyday problems, including a divorce, but managed to keep that, like most things in his life, private. His selflessness made him the ultimate teammate, and that will be hard to replicate in this day and age of NBA basketball.
So I sit here reflecting to a man who I looked up to and admired most of my life. I was 10 years old in San Antonio when I first saw him play his first home game. I am now a 29 year old man.
To "The Big Fundamental." The Greatest Power Forward to ever play the game. A top ten all time NBA player ever. One hell of a man.
You will never be forgotten. You will certainly be missed.
Thank you.
#21
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Mad props to Tim Duncan for being a total class act to the end. No silly farewell tour; no "look at me" celebration; just a quiet, dignified exit. :tup :tup
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I've only been to a handful of basketball games, but I happened to be at this game (https://espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=280107009) where even though we (GSW) won, Tim Duncan was impressive as ever. :tup
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Mad props to Tim Duncan for being a total class act to the end. No silly farewell tour; no "look at me" celebration; just a quiet, dignified exit. :tup :tup
Agreed.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uP5kDbctcE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uP5kDbctcE)
Pop's conference on Duncan. Just beautiful
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"With these teams right now, they're saying us and Golden State are the super teams, and they're trying not to build that many super teams, and [commissioner] Adam Silver came out with the statement and this and that," Rose said during a recent interview with NBA.com.
https://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/17124633/derrick-rose-says-new-york-knicks-being-put-same-super-team-class-golden-state-warriors
Webpoet73 says: :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin
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(https://i.imgflip.com/17tupg.jpg) (https://imgflip.com/i/17tupg) (https://imgflip.com/memegenerator)
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(https://i996.photobucket.com/albums/af84/TheKingLS/04.png)
(https://i996.photobucket.com/albums/af84/TheKingLS/05.png)
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Haha who the hell is calling the Knicks a super team? I wonder if Rose is just trolling, or if he's really that detached from reality. Honestly, between it being a contract year, and Rose having something to prove, I wouldn't be surprised if he put together a very solid year, statistically.
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I'm wondering if he actually said that on his own accord or if he was asked a baited question and the answer was taken out of context. Considering how the NY sports media uses that tactic to manufacture stories quite a bit I wouldn't be surprised if it was the latter.
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"Would you say this new-look Knicks team has more in common with Hitler's third reich or, I don't know, sayyy the Warriors?"
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We all knew Shaq left the Magic for the Lakers in 1996... but, geez, I didn't the Magic's management at that time blew it so badly.
https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/the-inside-story-how-the-orlando-magic-let-the-lakers-steal-shaquille-oneal/
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The Warriors added another MVP to the roster. Lol :biggrin:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160730/bfe1c4b4ebc904e229154f5b6b3ff42e.jpg)
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So can the US stop this basketball genius today in the gold medal game?
https://www.slate.com/blogs/five_ring_circus/2016/08/20/milo_teodosi_of_serbia_is_dominating_the_2016_olympics.html
Man, I really hope Teodosic finally comes to the NBA before he gets too old. Plz check out the clips in the above article if you've never heard of this dude!!!
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So can the US stop this basketball genius today in the gold medal game?
https://www.slate.com/blogs/five_ring_circus/2016/08/20/milo_teodosi_of_serbia_is_dominating_the_2016_olympics.html
Man, I really hope Teodosic finally comes to the NBA before he gets too old. Plz check out the clips in the above article if you've never heard of this dude!!!
I don't think he has any interest whatsoever in going to the NBA and it might be a good call. I love his tempo and overall play but I don't think he can match the phisysicallity that is requeried in the league to be succesful.
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I'm stoked to hear that Pop is the next Team USA coach. If we can just get Bron Bron and Curry for ONE olympics I'll ejaculate in the pattern of the olympic rings.
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I'm stoked to hear that Pop is the next Team USA coach. If we can just get Bron Bron and Curry for ONE olympics I'll ejaculate in the pattern of the olympic rings.
LBJ maybe a bit old by 2020, but how about a lineup that may feature someone like KD, Curry, K.Thomas, Anthony Davis, Kawhi Leonard, Brandon Ingram, Ben Simmons, Karl-Anthony Towns and anyone might come on strong in the next 2-3 years? :hat
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I'm stoked to hear that Pop is the next Team USA coach. If we can just get Bron Bron and Curry for ONE olympics I'll ejaculate in the pattern of the olympic rings.
LBJ maybe a bit old by 2020, but how about a lineup that may feature someone like KD, Curry, K.Thomas, Anthony Davis, Kawhi Leonard, Brandon Ingram, Ben Simmons, Karl-Anthony Towns and anyone might come on strong in the next 2-3 years? :hat
I'm sorry to rain on your parade, but Ben Simmons is from Australia...
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I'm stoked to hear that Pop is the next Team USA coach. If we can just get Bron Bron and Curry for ONE olympics I'll ejaculate in the pattern of the olympic rings.
LBJ maybe a bit old by 2020, but how about a lineup that may feature someone like KD, Curry, K.Thomas, Anthony Davis, Kawhi Leonard, Brandon Ingram, Ben Simmons, Karl-Anthony Towns and anyone might come on strong in the next 2-3 years? :hat
I'm sorry to rain on your parade, but Ben Simmons is from Australia...
Oops... note to US Government... must give this kid a citizenship quickly! :lol
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Speaking of K-A Towns...
My 13 y/o is a huge Celtics fan, so as with last year, we took him to a Celtics game for Christmas. General public tix went on sale today, and we scored pretty good seats to see the Timberwolves.
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I'm stoked to hear that Pop is the next Team USA coach. If we can just get Bron Bron and Curry for ONE olympics I'll ejaculate in the pattern of the olympic rings.
LBJ maybe a bit old by 2020, but how about a lineup that may feature someone like KD, Curry, K.Thomas, Anthony Davis, Kawhi Leonard, Brandon Ingram, Ben Simmons, Karl-Anthony Towns and anyone might come on strong in the next 2-3 years? :hat
I'm sorry to rain on your parade, but Ben Simmons is from Australia...
Oops... note to US Government... must give this kid a citizenship quickly! :lol
And Towns plays for the Dominican Republic.
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Okay, I am bored... but could someone enlighten me as to why both the Memphis Grizzlies and the New Orleans Pelicans belong to the Western Conference (both located east of the mighty Mississippi River, no less), other than in an effort to "balance out" the number of teams in both conferences?
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Do any of the major sports have regional conference sense? I feel like they should all go back to the drawing board.
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The Mississippi cuts through NOLA. Fucking sucks driving over the urethrally-narrow Huey P. Long bridge.
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Do any of the major sports have regional conference sense? I feel like they should all go back to the drawing board.
I think it makes sense. There's tons of games per season and already having to fly between LA and NY is a hassle 4 times a year, imagine having to do it 8 or 12 times
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Does anyone have the NBA League Pass Premium package? What games do they offer in their Video Vault?
My local cable carrier just lost the NBA package to its competitor, and I'd rather get the League Pass than signing an extra cable contract.
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Ben Simmons broke a bone in his foot at training camp today. The Sixers can't catch a break.
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Ben Simmons broke a bone in his foot at training camp today. The Sixers can't catch a break.
Sounds like that's exactly what they caught.
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Ben Simmons broke a bone in his foot at training camp today. The Sixers can't catch a break.
Sounds like that's exactly what they caught.
:lol
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I'm never been a fan of watching basketball, but while watching highlights during these past playoffs, the Hornets colors and branding caught my attention. I really like the black uniform, reminds me of the movie Tron. I also like the square font of the numbers and branding.
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I'm never been a fan of watching basketball, but while watching highlights during these past playoffs, the Hornets colors and branding caught my attention. I really like the black uniform, reminds me of the movie Tron. I also like the square font of the numbers and branding.
Yes, the Hornets' branding is awesome, but they changed their home court this year, which depressed me a bit.
Also, the season starts today! What is everyone most excited for? I'm anxious to see the Warriors, the drama-less Cavs, and the young studs in Minnesota.
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Minnesota looks like an interesting team to watch, they have so much potential and a great coach in Thibbs. I just hope he doesn't burn them out.
I'm interested in seeing how the Spurs will work out without TD, I assume it's gonna be more or less the same with Pop still in there but there were some big changes.
Finally, I'm curious about the Knicks, they can either be great or one of the biggest disappointments of the year. For Kristapz' sake I hope it's the former.
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Also, the season starts today! What is everyone most excited for? I'm anxious to see the Warriors, the drama-less Cavs, and the young studs in Minnesota.
Excited to see the Warriors, of course. I almost think there will be more national attention on them than the Cavs, despite the Cavs being the defending champs, just because of the KD move. But it's going to be cool to watch how the team evolves and adjusts to the new chemistry as the season progresses. I kind of expect them to be completely different by the time the playoffs roll around.
Hoping to see the Cavs implode and fall apart this season. That would be nice. Even though I am not aware of any major issues, LeBron is perfectly capable of manufacturing issues where none exist.
Kind of interested to see whether Portland takes the next step. They certainly looked legit last postseason, and they have the pieces in place to build on that and not be a one season wonder. But we'll probably have to be a good ways into the season to tell.
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Go Sixers (lol) and Russel Westbrook.
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Hoping to see the Cavs implode and fall apart this season. That would be nice. Even though I am not aware of any major issues, LeBron is perfectly capable of manufacturing issues where none exist.
Considering that has never happened, I can understand why one would think that...:P :biggrin:
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:lol
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In honor of Craig Sager, Celtics wear "Sager Strong" jerseys at practice today.
(https://c.o0bg.com/rf/image_1200w/Boston/2011-2020/2016/10/25/BostonGlobe.com/Sports/Images/sager2-10183.jpg?uuid=rSfRdprxEearvHjcIlnraA)
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The Spurs are beating the Dubs with their own game... Damn, the Spurs are raining 3's!! And they do a really good job in disrupting the Dubs' offensive flow. They do just enough to force them into making tough shots.
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Spurs are looking like they are in mid-season prime! They are moving the ball better than they did all season last year in this game. The new pieces are fitting nicely with Gasol and Lee. And Kawhi Leonard is showing why he was second in MVP voting last season. He is a beast on both sides of the court. I'm very excited for this season, but I don't expect our next meeting with the Warriors to be like this :lol It's going to be a hard earned contest with these two teams from here on out
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Great win by the Spurs!
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It's only one game, but while Durant will make their offense is even more insane, losing the players they did means their D is going to suffer and teams will have a much easier time getting to the rim.
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120 - 114!
A reasonable score for the Rockets @ Lakers game, as the letter "D" can't be found in either teams, lol!! I am glad we won though. :biggrin:
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It's only one game, but while Durant will make their offense is even more insane, losing the players they did means their D is going to suffer and teams will have a much easier time getting to the rim.
I'm not sure the defense will be their biggest problem, I think the depth will. They're bench is not as good as it was in the previous years and I think that is what's gonna hurt them the most if Steve Kerr doesn't figure out a good rotation plan.
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I'm becoming more and more impressed with Anthony Davis. I'm catching the Warriors/Pelicans game, and the hustle he brings to a squad that is not very good makes the difference. He's a seven footer diving for loose balls and running up and down the floor, shoots in mid range, has handles, and switches onto smaller players on defense. Reminds me of The Admiral in his prime. If i was a free agent, I'd want to go play with him. Get Davis some pieces around him and Pelicans could be a great team in the future.
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While I agree that AD is a complete beast, I wouldn't go anywhere near the Pelis if I was a free agent. They need to bring in some guys that can help or at least be good role players, otherwise no one will want to go there. That team is dreadful right now
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While I agree that AD is a complete beast, I wouldn't go anywhere near the Pelis if I was a free agent. They need to bring in some guys that can help or at least be good role players, otherwise no one will want to go there. That team is dreadful right now
So on the one hand you said they need some guys there to win; yet without those guys you (as a FA) wouldn't want a part of it? That sounds like a catch 22 kind of deal to me. I mean, if a good enough baller wants to win and be in a situation where they can get some serious PT, wouldn't NO be the place to show what you are worth?
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While I agree that AD is a complete beast, I wouldn't go anywhere near the Pelis if I was a free agent. They need to bring in some guys that can help or at least be good role players, otherwise no one will want to go there. That team is dreadful right now
So on the one hand you said they need some guys there to win; yet without those guys you (as a FA) wouldn't want a part of it? That sounds like a catch 22 kind of deal to me. I mean, if a good enough baller wants to win and be in a situation where they can get some serious PT, wouldn't NO be the place to show what you are worth?
Tell that to AD who's demonstrating he's MVP caliber yet can't win a single game because the rest of the team sucks. Management really needs to do a good job of bringing players that can improve the team, otherwise no one will want to go there
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Tell that to AD who's demonstrating he's MVP caliber yet can't win a single game because the rest of the team sucks. Management really needs to do a good job of bringing players that can improve the team, otherwise no one will want to go there
That's the whole point. You sir were saying if you were a FA (a pretty decent wing guy, I assume) and you wouldn't want to be in NO and help AD win games... instead, from what I got in your original post, you would only join his team when they are already winning? If they are already winning, why would they want you then?
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Tell that to AD who's demonstrating he's MVP caliber yet can't win a single game because the rest of the team sucks. Management really needs to do a good job of bringing players that can improve the team, otherwise no one will want to go there
That's the whole point. You sir were saying if you were a FA (a pretty decent wing guy, I assume) and you wouldn't want to be in NO and help AD win games... instead, from what I got in your original post, you would only join his team when they are already winning? If they are already winning, why would they want you then?
That's not what I'm saying. If I were to go to a team it would be one that I know can win, like the 76ers, they've been losing but have a lot of potential moving forward. Milwaukee is also losing but I would gladly join because I also think they have potential. The Pelis suck and don't have enough young talent that I would go there because we would probably still lose.
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I understand what you are saying, Nekov. To put it another way, you are basically saying that a player with any talent should have a right to expect a certain level of confidence that ownership/management has a commitment to try to build a winner. Not necessarily that they are there yet, but that there are signs that that is the mindset. A team that shows no indication that they want to build a solid team, on the other hand, does not inspire such confidence.
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If anything, AD's likely to soon be looking to get out of NO. I don't see anyone joining him there. Much like my Hawks and Mavs, some places just aren't free agent destinations (even when they've been winning -- something which the Pelicans can't even claim).
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I understand what you are saying, Nekov. To put it another way, you are basically saying that a player with any talent should have a right to expect a certain level of confidence that ownership/management has a commitment to try to build a winner. Not necessarily that they are there yet, but that there are signs that that is the mindset. A team that shows no indication that they want to build a solid team, on the other hand, does not inspire such confidence.
Exactly. I'm sure they will try to do something like this because AD won't just stay there if the situation remains the same and they can't afford to lose their biggest player however I son't know if they have the assets to do so.
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Good game, Durant.
How's that, bosk1? :P
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Trending up.
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Wooo... the Dubs are playing like crap @ Lakers... the Lakers are leading 46 - 27 as I am typing this... :omg:
Then again, I know the Dubs are too good to be down that much, and they can easily shoot themselves right back into this game... Go Lakers! Don't screw it up! :biggrin:
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I can't say I'm surprised that the Clippers have the best record in the West so far. They are the only team in the West that was in contention in the past 5 years that haven't lost key players. Spurs, Warriors, and Thunder have changed. The Clippers are the only team with players that are familiar with each other. It's still early in the season though, but i think we'll have the Spurs and Warriors battling for that number one spot after the All-Star break.
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It is just 10 or so games into the season. I am sure the Spurs will eventually win at least 55 games. I agreed, however, the Dubs will be an interesting team to see how they develop along the way.
As for the Clippers... well, they are the Clippers after all, lol!! :lol
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As for the Clippers... well, they are the Clippers after all, lol!! :lol
:lol
How about the Lakers, 10 games in and they currently have a playoff spot :eek
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How about the Lakers, 10 games in and they currently have a playoff spot :eek
Still a bit early to say it one way or another. The Grizzlies are the one outside-looking-in team I worried the most. I think if we don't screw it up (big if, the Grammys roadie in late Jan / early Feb should tells it all) later on, we would be fighting for a spots against teams like the Rockets, Grizzlies and the Jazz.
On second thought, we could easily go 2-8 in the next 10 games... geez... the Spurs, the Dubs (twice), Thunder, the Bulls (twice)?! Oh my...
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I'd better get used to this kind of ups and downs, not during the season, not even during a game; rather during a quarter! Geez... we were up by 10 pts, and then we were being down by 1 with 13 ticks left. When I thought there was no play developing at all, Swaggy P came out of nowhere and drained a cold blooded 3 to win it!! Damn!! I need a drink... :lol
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I'd better get used to this kind of ups and downs, not during the season, not even during a game; rather during a quarter! Geez... we were up by 10 pts, and then we were being down by 1 with 13 ticks left. When I thought there was no play developing at all, Swaggy P came out of nowhere and drained a cold blooded 3 to win it!! Damn!! I need a drink... :lol
You should thank the refs for not calling the 5 step travel ;)
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You should thank the refs for not calling the 5 step travel ;)
The Swaggy steps! :metal :lol
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While I was born and raised in New York, I became a basketball fan in 1989, and gravitated to the expansion Minnesota Timberwolves, who I have rooted for ever since. Favorite player of all time is Tony Campbell (some of you younger folks probably don't remember him), the Wolves' leading scorer in 1989, 1990, and 1991. He played a key role on the Lakers in the late 80s, and starred for Ohio State. After the Wolves, he played for the Knicks, Mavs, and Cavaliers before retiring. Pure scorer, with a great mid-range game (think DeMar Derozen).
Pretty excited about the Wolves' potential moving forward. Not surprised at the slow start this year, however. Wiggins is now getting doubled, and has to figure that out. But the trio of Wiggins, Towns, and Lavine could potentially have the Wolves in title contention in the next few years. We'll see if Glen Taylor opens the wallet and enables Coach Thibs to keep all three. He needs to.
Wolves at Pelicans tonight on ESPN!
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Pretty excited about the Wolves' potential moving forward. Not surprised at the slow start this year, however. Wiggins is now getting doubled, and has to figure that out. But the trio of Wiggins, Towns, and Lavine could potentially have the Wolves in title contention in the next few years. We'll see if Glen Taylor opens the wallet and enables Coach Thibs to keep all three. He needs to.
Sam, my 13 y/o is wicked into basketball. We get him one game for Christmas, and this year we are seeing the Wolves when they come to Boston. That's the team he wanted to see.
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Very cool. That will be a great game.
Happy Thanksgiving!
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60 points? 60 POINTS?? :rollin
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60 points? 60 POINTS?? :rollin
Grandpa Kobe be like : That's cute... I once scored 62 pts all by myself while the Mavs scored just 61 pts as a team thru 3 qtrs :lol
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Well, yeah, obviously it's not a record. But still, it's an amazing feat, especially when you consider that he isn't just a lone wolf like Kobe was; he is on a team surrounded by the top talent in the league on offense, AND they still manage to be a top 10 defense (and climbing) as well. It's going to be hard to stop this team in the playoffs.
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Well, yeah, obviously it's not a record. But still, it's an amazing feat, especially when you consider that he isn't just a lone wolf like Kobe was; he is on a team surrounded by the top talent in the league on offense, AND they still manage to be a top 10 defense (and climbing) as well. It's going to be hard to stop this team in the playoffs.
I like the Dubs and I want them to be good, but their rebounding concerns me. :hat
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Well, yeah, obviously it's not a record. But still, it's an amazing feat, especially when you consider that he isn't just a lone wolf like Kobe was; he is on a team surrounded by the top talent in the league on offense, AND they still manage to be a top 10 defense (and climbing) as well. It's going to be hard to stop this team in the playoffs.
I like the Dubs and I want them to be good, but their rebounding concerns me. :hat
Yeah, I think their scoring potential will get them cruising during the regular season but come the playoffs those rebounds + missing Bogut in the paint will hurt them.
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Alright enough talking about the warriors because LeBron has just become the first player in NBA history to have 27k+ points with 7k+ rebounds and 7k+ assists :hefdaddy
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Also, Westbrook is easily averaging a triple double after 24 games. Insane.
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Sager was one of a kind, there is simply no one does things more colorful than he did when in comes to sideline reporting. He was also a fighter, an inspiration to all of us. TNT games will never be the same without you. You will be missed. RIP.
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Never bother with this thread, but just saw the news about Sager. DI remember him from back in his CNN days. I know when someone passes, everyone comes out of the woodwork to say nice things, but it seems like no one ever have anything bad to say about him.
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https://youtu.be/PF4J4x21v3c (https://youtu.be/PF4J4x21v3c)
Ok, this may not be NBA related, but check out this game between two Japanese elementary school teams. What a finish at the end!
If you don't want to watch this 2-minute video in its entirety, you may skip it all the way to around the 1:55 mark. The team in black is down by a point with 2 seconds left with NO time out. :hefdaddy
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"This site can’t be reached"
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"This site can’t be reached"
Sorry, url fixed. Should work now.
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That is both ridiculous and awesome. Imagine losing a game on something like that.
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23pts/9rebs/6assts/2stls/2blks per game.
22 years old.
Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Making the Milwaukee Bucks a must see.
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23pts/9rebs/6assts/2stls/2blks per game.
22 years old.
Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Making the Milwaukee Bucks a must see.
I have not watch the Bucks enough over the past two seasons, but you are right, they are more fun to watch with him in the lineup. What do you think about Kidd as coach?
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23pts/9rebs/6assts/2stls/2blks per game.
22 years old.
Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Making the Milwaukee Bucks a must see.
I have not watch the Bucks enough over the past two seasons, but you are right, they are more fun to watch with him in the lineup. What do you think about Kidd as coach?
Kidd seems to be best at developing players, however his in-game coaching is very poor. He also seems to have issues with loyalty towards old vets/friends of his (Jason Terry plays way too much).
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Indeed. Leaving Oscar Robertson in for the entire 4th quarter last game was very questionable.
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Greek. Freak.
https://www.nba.com/bucks/video/wsc/teams/881c54c0-64fc-82ea-6768-158249d06973
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I have to roll my eyes at the flagrant called on Green last night and LeBron's commensurate flop. Given how hard they collided and how LeBron went down, I can completely see making that call in real time just as a kneejerk reaction if the officials weren't watching carefully. But they reviewed it extensively at the time before enforcing it, and I can't believe they somehow still came to the conclusion that it was a flagrant. Both of his hands/arms were down, going for the ball and the strip, and his eyes were also on the ball the entire time. The fact that they collided hard and LeBron wend down as a result is irrelevant. More bad officiating and LeBron bias by the officiating crew. :tdwn
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I didn't see it, but Green has a rep now as a dirty player, one he totally earned, so any benefit of the doubt he might have gotten before is now gone.
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The thing is the refs took 5 minutes looking at that replay, and still called it a flagrant. It was a FOUL, but no way was that flagrant
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...Green has a rep now as a dirty player, one he totally earned
Only in the eyes of either those who haven't really ever watched him play, or are simply blind LeBron fans who will defend him when anyone looks at him crossways. There's nothing dirty about the way Green plays, and there was nothing flagrant about that foul. But unfortunately, a reputation, whether deserved or not, can be a think that takes on a life of its own whether supported by facts or not.
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I don't think that Green is a dirty player but rather a bit of a reckless one, at least at times. His fiery demeanor probably makes everything look worse than it really is. For example, Dwyane Wade has also hit a bunch of guys in the nuts, but because he has a charming smile and usually seems like a nice guy, no one cares. It's a bit strange. :lol
Either way, Green is a great player, especially defensively, and I think that as long as he and two of their three All-Star wings are healthy, they're the favorites to win the title again.
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Looks like Ben Simmons is completely heal, and he could make his debut after the AS break. Can't wait to see him play. The Sixers should be fun to watch.
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Looks like Ben Simmons is completely heal, and he could make his debut after the AS break. Can't wait to see him play. The Sixers should be fun to watch.
Agreed. Hope he has a good chemistry with Embid
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Pau hurts his metacarpal during pre-game warm up, and is out indefinitely, ouch!!
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This season has been a weird one, to me.
On the one hand, the individual performances of guys like Harden and Westbrook have been amazing. The amount of talent at the top of the league is maybe at an all-time high.
At the same time, there's this sense that the Warriors are unbeatable that makes it all seem kind of pointless. I think I'm especially grumpy because my favorite teams (Cavaliers, Hornets, Raptors) have all gone through stretches where they've been absolutely dreadful.
I'm hoping that everyone gets healthy and motivated in time for the playoffs. I'll be especially interested to see how the Clippers do once (if) they return to 100%.
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This season has been a weird one, to me.
On the one hand, the individual performances of guys like Harden and Westbrook have been amazing. The amount of talent at the top of the league is maybe at an all-time high.
At the same time, there's this sense that the Warriors are unbeatable that makes it all seem kind of pointless. I think I'm especially grumpy because my favorite teams (Cavaliers, Hornets, Raptors) have all gone through stretches where they've been absolutely dreadful.
I'm hoping that everyone gets healthy and motivated in time for the playoffs. I'll be especially interested to see how the Clippers do once (if) they return to 100%.
The Dubs looked unbeatable last season too... remember their 73-9 record? Their problem then was size up front, and it is the still the same problem with them this year. Zaza is an upgrade from Bogut on both ends, but that doesn't mean much in the west. After Zaza there is Shaqtin' a fool MVP McGee?! Lol! :lol No, the Dubs will still win a ton of games by the end of the season, but they will have a tough time getting pass big teams like the Grizzlies, Spurs, Clippers etc. This will be an interesting playoffs run for them for sure.
As for the Cavs, didn't they hit the same regular season wall around this time last season too? They miss JR more than people give him credit for, but I think they will be fine in the end too. The Raptors, while I liked them too, and they seem to play more mature this season, but I still don't see them beating the Cavs. Sorry. Strange as it might sound, I think the Celtics might actually have a shot at making the ECF. :hat
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Yea, I think everything you're saying is right. I think that this season will be similar to last season where the Warriors are the odds-on favorite, but if they have an injury or someone goes crazy against them, anything can happen.
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Despite the Cavs current slump, I think Cleveland/Golden St again is all but a given.
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Man oh man, we won our 17th game of the season! We didn't win #17 last season until Kobe's final game. Yay! :biggrin:
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I agree with TOX, at the begining of the season I was pretty excited but now it just seems to be the same thing for the 3rd consecutive year, Cavs vs Dubs even though I think the Spurs might have a chance.
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My Wolves are hot and taking on a shorthanded Cleveland team with a ton of controversy surrounding it. Ripe for an upset this evening!
And regarding the Lebron v. Barkley thing -- Barkley is an ass, but he's right here. He kept it strictly basketball, and called it how he saw it. That's his job as an analyst. Lebron IS being a whiny idiot. He's a player. The team has opened its wallet to the owner's detriment to give him what he wants, and he still wants more. And the sad thing is, the owner now has no choice.
The Cavs sold their souls to Lebron to get a chance at a ring. But to be honest, they never should have signed Lebron as a FA from Miami. They already had Kyrie Irving, and if they didn't trade for Love, would have had Andrew Wiggins (thanks for that, Cavs). A pairing of Wiggins and Irving would have positioned Cleveland to be one of the best teams in the East, and most importantly, be financially flexible. But because of how things now have played out, yes, they have "The King," they have a title, but they have NO FUTURE. Nothing.
They are strapped because of the salary cap, have lengthy high salaries on marginal talent, and now their superstar, because he signs basically one-year deals (two with an option on the second year for the player), he has the Cavs at his mercy. They either do what he wants, or he threatens to walk. And like most situations, if a player has done something before (as in this case, leave), he'll do it again.
So enjoy that title, Cavs fans. Because your golden child is acting just like that -- a child. And while the team is good now, it won't be in a couple of years, and when Irving's contract is up, expect him to bolt because of all this.
Meanwhile, in Minnesota, the Wolves keep getting better and better and better. Been a huge fan since the inaugural season in 1989-1990. Favorite player was (and still is, even though he's been retired for years) Tony Campbell. Loved the pairing of TC, Pooh Richardson, and Ty Corbin. Then loved Garnett, Googs (fellow Long Islander) and Marbury. But with KAT, Wiggs, and Zach, man, those three...something special. And Thibs' defensive schemes are finally coming together.
We may not win tonight, but the claws are out. :lol
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Wow, so much wrong with that post. Where to begin...
And regarding the Lebron v. Barkley thing -- Barkley is an ass, but he's right here. He kept it strictly basketball, and called it how he saw it.
Incorrect. Calling someone is whiney is personal, especially in the context he framed it.
The Cavs sold their souls to Lebron to get a chance at a ring. But to be honest, they never should have signed Lebron as a FA from Miami. They already had Kyrie Irving, and if they didn't trade for Love, would have had Andrew Wiggins (thanks for that, Cavs). A pairing of Wiggins and Irving would have positioned Cleveland to be one of the best teams in the East, and most importantly, be financially flexible. But because of how things now have played out, yes, they have "The King," they have a title, but they have NO FUTURE. Nothing.
Um, what? I am pretty sure most fans would trade the future for a single championship, especially when your city hasn't won a title since the 60s. You are kidding yourself if you think otherwise.
Irving and Wiggins might have eked into the playoffs in the East, but who knows? And remember that they wouldn't have Love. Or JR Smith. Or Lebron. They'd be lucky to win more than 35 games in the pathetic East. Irving is a great number 2 NOW, but it took him time to learn to be a number 2 behind James. Had James never went back to Cleveland, it's likely Irving would have been another Carmelo Anthony: a volume shooter who chucked it up all day and didn't win a lot of games.
They are strapped because of the salary cap, have lengthy high salaries on marginal talent, and now their superstar, because he signs basically one-year deals (two with an option on the second year for the player), he has the Cavs at his mercy. They either do what he wants, or he threatens to walk. And like most situations, if a player has done something before (as in this case, leave), he'll do it again.
I believe this is the main reason why some ex-players like Barkley are critical of James. They seem how powerful he is and are annoyed that players didn't have that kind of power when they played. James has changed the culture of the NBA, to where players have a lot of power now. That is a good thing.
So enjoy that title, Cavs fans.
I am pretty sure they did.
And while the team is good now, it won't be in a couple of years, and when Irving's contract is up, expect him to bolt because of all this.
I hope he does. Go see what the worth of the Cavs was before James came back to Cleveland, and then go see what it is worth now. Dan Gilbert can thank LeBron James, and LeBron James alone, for that.
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Kev, your LeBron love has blinded you to the point where you cannot even be objective. Your point about Cleveland not likely amounting to anything in the near future had LeBron not come back is accurate. But aside from that, your post is off on virtually everything. No point in even going point-by-point because they are all so obviously wrong. But especially this one:
And regarding the Lebron v. Barkley thing -- Barkley is an ass, but he's right here. He kept it strictly basketball, and called it how he saw it.
Incorrect. Calling someone is whiney is personal, especially in the context he framed it.
You reference "context," but then ignore it. LeBron was whining about basketball. So in context, that is a "strictly basketball" comment.
And on and on we could go, but, again, not worth it.
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Let's be serious. Note that I didn't disagree with his comment about LeBron being an idiot, because I think LeBron is being an idiot about this whole thing right now. I am not sure what he is hoping to accomplish going off like this, but he's normally not this petulant.
However, calling someone whiney is personal, regardless of what he was talking about. Had LeBron been whining on the court, that would be one thing, but he wasn't. And I am a huge fan of Barkley. I am probably a bigger fan of Barkley than I am of LeBron. I had no problem with Barkley's comments, even the personal one, because that is what Charles does. That is why LeBron reacting the way he did was just odd. He isn't going to win a war of words with Sir Charles. No one ever does.
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Seems you're ok to say that about Tom Brady Kev.
God I love ribbing you. :lol
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LOl, okay, but I am not on TV. If I was on TV saying Brady, or any athlete, was whiney every time he whined to the officials, I would expect pushback at some point from that athlete. And really, when you consider how much abuse James has taken over the years from the press - there isn't any other athlete in any team sport in America whose season every year will be considered a failure if his team doesn't win the championship - the fact that he has never really gone nuclear on a member of the media until now is pretty surprising. It's unfortunate that Barkley was the one he finally went nuts on.
My guess is that James is frustrated right now because a) he sees that his team is struggling, and b) he sees how good the Warriors look. For as much as James owns the Warriors nearly every time he plays them (look at his stats vs them the last few years), deep down he knows that from player 2- player 12, it is a total mismatch. He basically played 13 games in the finals the last two years thinking, "I have to play out of my mind for us to even have a chance at winning," and he knows the same thing will happen this year again.
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As much as I despise LeBron's actions, he's always been very professional to the media. I think he's frustrated with the situation in Cleveland.
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He's being a bitch. STFU!
Not you Kev! ;D
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:lol
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I guess my take on all this is:
- Barkley is kind of an idiot, but he's a lovable idiot, and everything he said about James being a whiner is true
- James has been a huge drama queen these past three years. He's not a bad guy nor is he a dumb guy, but he's become super annoying.
- If the Cavs had banked their future on an Irving/Wiggins combo, I'm not sure it would've worked out so well. Neither guy has good advanced metrics or has shown the ability to influence winning without the help of a LeBron type. Who knows, I'm not saying that I know for sure. No one does. I just doubt they'd be contending for titles without a ridiculous supporting cast.
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Dear Cavs,
Thanks for kicking our ass last night.
Wolves
>>>>Ouch, that was a pasting. As for the reply from you Kev, not much to really reply to. I'm sure Cleveland fans would make that choice again and again. But they'll pay for it, for sure. In regard to Wiggins-Irving, we'll never know, obviously, but that team would be much better positioned for the next decade than it is now. If Lebron leaves (and he might), or he retires in the next few years (he might), that team will be buried for the next decade at least. So many bad contracts.
I won't bother re-addressing the Barkley-Lebron thing. I think bosk took care of what I would have said myself.
Go Wolves!
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I'm sure Cleveland fans would make that choice again and again. But they'll pay for it, for sure.
Truth is, almost any team would do that. The only team that has been able to stay a contender for long is the Spurs, every other team in the league has gone through ups and downs, rebuilding and champ runs because that how the NBA works.
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Almost any team that isn't the Spurs or Warriors--two teams that have long-term vision and the knowhow and will to execute it.
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Almost any team that isn't the Spurs or Warriors--two teams that have long-term vision and the knowhow and will to execute it.
We'll see how that works out in a couple of years. Every analyst I've read has said that the Durant move will eventually hurt them since Curry, Klay and Draymond all have contracts that are a steal but will surely get max offers in the upcoming years and the Warriors will be challenged to make all of that fit.
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You should read more analysts then. :D There are plenty who have written up reasons why those concerns are largely overblown and how, given how the Warriors front office runs, they should be just fine and be able to keep their core intact.
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Warriors are dumping Varajao. :( I mean, it makes basketball sense. He's just not that good a player. But I liked him. He always did what he was told and seemed to have a great attitude. I was pulling for him to get a ring. Oh well.
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Warriors are dumping Varajao. :( I mean, it makes basketball sense. He's just not that good a player. But I liked him. He always did what he was told and seemed to have a great attitude. I was pulling for him to get a ring. Oh well.
Didn't he help LBJ and the Cavs win their first title last June by playing for the Dubs? :lol
Seriously, I thought the Cavs did actually give him a ring for his services last season. He was with the Cavs until Feb last season.
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I'm sure there is a team out there in desperate need of a flopper, so Varajao won't be unemployed for long.
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Warriors are dumping Varajao. :( I mean, it makes basketball sense. He's just not that good a player. But I liked him. He always did what he was told and seemed to have a great attitude. I was pulling for him to get a ring. Oh well.
Didn't he help LBJ and the Cavs win their first title last June by playing for the Dubs? :lol
Seriously, I thought the Cavs did actually give him a ring for his services last season. He was with the Cavs until Feb last season.
They offered, but he turned them down since he was with the Warriors the second half when they actually make the playoff run and won it. I probably would have done the same.
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I haven't watched the Knicks for over a month until tonight on ABC... man, I thought my Lakers suck on D... geez, the Knicks ain't even trying tonight! And without Irving, the Cavs ain't even trying to push things either, yet they are up by double digital effortlessly... not a good game to watch so far. :tdwn
EDIT: Congrats to LBJ for reaching 28,000pts.
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EPIC Paul Pierce moment at the end of today's Celtics game! :metal
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Jabari Parker may have blew out his knee again.
It's tough being a Bucks fan.
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LOL-bron James! https://www.sbnation.com/lookit/2017/2/9/14572058/lebron-james-missed-dunks-video-highlights-cavaliers-thunder
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LOL-bron James! https://www.sbnation.com/lookit/2017/2/9/14572058/lebron-james-missed-dunks-video-highlights-cavaliers-thunder
Did he flop on his first missed dunk?! :lol
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Jabari Parker may have blew out his knee again.
It's tough being a Bucks fan.
This really sucks. I was pulling for the Bucks to make the playoffs and maybe even make some noise. They're not a contender yet, but they're a really fun bunch of young guys, and Giannis/Jabari are the main part of that.
LOL-bron James! https://www.sbnation.com/lookit/2017/2/9/14572058/lebron-james-missed-dunks-video-highlights-cavaliers-thunder
Did he flop on his first missed dunk?! :lol
Why the Cavaliers even played the Big Three last night is beyond me. I understand that the team can't just throw the season and win 45 games like some people are suggesting, but they're losing a ton of games anyway because their guys are playing such crazy minutes and not giving forth good effort, it seems. I think they should go ahead and rest the Big Three for a couple of games here.
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Draymond Green got a triple-double with only 4 points. He has 4 pts, 12 rebs, 10 assists, 10 steals. Wow! :corn
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Draymond Green got a triple-double @ Grizzlies tonight with only 4 points. He has 4 pts, 12 rebs, 10 assists, 10 steals. Wow! :corn
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I meant to edit my last post, ended up "quoting" myself... Lol! How the hell do you delete your own message? Lol! :lol :facepalm:
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No judgement from me. Green deserves as much praise as possible for that performance! :biggrin:
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Green was asked in an interview whether he wished he could have gotten 10 points for the quadruple double. His response was basically, "Nah, I think this narrative is the better story because it more reflects my style of play and my role on the team."
In other NBA news, wow, look at Utah. They are quietly on the rise. I didn't even notice they have crept up to the #4 spot in the west. And in the east, look at Boston being right on the Cavs' heels. I would love to see them overtake Cleveland and have the #1 spot going into the playoffs.
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In other NBA news, wow, look at Utah. They are quietly on the rise. I didn't even notice they have crept up to the #4 spot in the west. And in the east, look at Boston being right on the Cavs' heels. I would love to see them overtake Cleveland and have the #1 spot going into the playoffs.
And the Celts just beat the Jazz in Utah on Saturday.
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As a Raptors fan, there's a small part of me that dislikes the Celtics because everyone picked them over the Raptors to start the year. I was like, "The Raptors went to the Conference Finals last year. Where's the respect?"
Well... Looks like people were right. The Celtics have been much better than the Raptors as of late.
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The Celtics have to make some noise in this year's playoff. But they need to get healthy. I think their starting five has been together for less than half of their games.
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Looks like my guys made a deal today, acquiring Serge Ibaka from Orlando for Terrence Ross and a first rounder. I like the trade, assuming that Ibaka stays with us after this year. I still don't think he pushes us past the Cavaliers though, as he isn't as terrifying a defender as he used to be.
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Looks like my guys made a deal today, acquiring Serge Ibaka from Orlando for Terrence Ross and a first rounder. I like the trade, assuming that Ibaka stays with us after this year. I still don't think he pushes us past the Cavaliers though, as he isn't as terrifying a defender as he used to be.
That was a great deal for the Raptors. If Serge resigns, and I think he likely will, you get a great third piece behind your big 2 to do all the dirty work, and chip in 15/10 for the next five years. For what, Ross (ok bench depth) and a first rounder this year, that is going to be late in the round. I take that. In fact, I think if the Raptors stay healthy, this might be their year (once they get through some bumps integrating Serge into the sets) to get into the NBA Finals. Gonna be tough against the West...I think GS beats them, but if GS is ousted in the WCF, I think the Raptors can bring it home.
My Wolves are looking for some revenge tonight against the injury-riddled Cavs. I expect Derrick Williams to kill the Wolves tonight, but hoping Wiggins and Towns can match Kyrie and Lebron. The wildcard is going to be bench play. I think the Wolves have the advantage. I like Stephenson with Jones in the backcourt coming off the bench...we'll see.
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Tell your boys to punch dem bums in the teeth.
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The Celtics have to make some noise in this year's playoff. But they need to get healthy. I think their starting five has been together for less than half of their games.
Can the Celtics elevate their game when other teams ratchet up their defense? That's been their problem.
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I think this is a good (not great) trade for the Raptors. They used to have NO reliable bigs inside after they lost Biyombo to free agency. That being said, let's see if Ibaka a 2-month rental, or is he going to resign with the Raptors this summer. The playoffs in the east is going to be interesting with 4 teams fighting for the top spots now.
If I were the Cavs, I am so going to restrict both Kyrie and LBJ's minutes now... I bet they are kicking themselves for not trading Love to the Knicks for Melo now, lol! :lol
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The Celtics have to make some noise in this year's playoff. But they need to get healthy. I think their starting five has been together for less than half of their games.
Can the Celtics elevate their game when other teams ratchet up their defense? That's been their problem.
Well, it's on them to take the next step. Each year has shown a progression. But the playoffs will ultimate define their season.
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Their progression is only the regular season. In the playoffs they are stagnant.
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Their progression is only the regular season. In the playoffs they are stagnant.
They need to add another good guy to their team in order to move forward in the playoffs. Their team game is great, but during playoffs you need a couple guys that can elevate your team to another level. Thomas can do that but you need someone else. Look what happened to Atlanta a couple years back, great team play but when the time came, only Paul Millsap could take the load and that wasn't enough. I think they should make a run for a guy like Jimmy Buttler, they certainly have the assets to do it without breaking their core.
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I really hate losing to Lebaby James. He whines and cries almost as much as Demarcus Cousins. :lol
Oh well. Wolves put up a big fight last night, but their D was terrible. Cavs still a tough team to beat, even without Love and JR (I will shoot anything, anywhere) Smith.
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Kyrie Irving believes the earth is flat. Link (https://"https://www.si.com/extra-mustard/2017/02/17/cavaliers-kyrie-irving-flat-earth") :lol :lol :lol
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Kyrie Irving believes the earth is flat. https://www.si.com/extra-mustard/2017/02/17/cavaliers-kyrie-irving-flat-earth :lol :lol :lol
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That kid from Stranger Things was absolutely ballin in that Celebrity All-Star game.
Also, Rachel DeMita :heart :heart :heart
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Other than Jason Willams and Mark Cuban, oh and Nick Cannon, I did not know a single person playing. On what planet are these people celebrities?
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On what planet are these people celebrities?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_y3N7q1bwfY
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I chuckled seeing people lose their minds over the call at the end of the Boston/Chicago game. Uh, when you swat a player on his elbow when he is in the act of shooting, that is a pretty easy call.
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Wow! Porzingis won the Skills Challenge in the coolest way possible! :tup
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I chuckled seeing people lose their minds over the call at the end of the Boston/Chicago game. Uh, when you swat a player on his elbow when he is in the act of shooting, that is a pretty easy call.
Swat? :lol
It's a bad call but I've got used to how bad the refs in the NBA are these days for all teams. Favoring the top tier players is so wrong but is so the norm that it's become ok to fans.
Also, all teams have had these calls and it's only one game.
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I chuckled seeing people lose their minds over the call at the end of the Boston/Chicago game. Uh, when you swat a player on his elbow when he is in the act of shooting, that is a pretty easy call.
Yeah, he swatted his elbow hair with his shadow!
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I couldn't care less about the Bulls or the Celtics, but that was a terrible, terrible call.
-J
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Wow! Porzingis won the Skills Challenge in the coolest way possible! :tup
That was awesome!
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I couldn't care less about the Bulls or the Celtics, but that was a terrible, terrible call.
-J
It was definitely ticky-tack, and I have seen a lot worse not called, but whether we want to call it a swat or a love tap, if you touch the elbow of a player when he is in the act of shooting, you are risking having a foul called.
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And Boogie is finally out of Sacramento. That franchise has become a train-wreck since the new owner bought it. I'm eager to see how the pelis do with that beast of a frountcourt.
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My Pels are gonna win AT LEAST 25 games a year now :metal
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My Pels are gonna win AT LEAST 25 games a year now :metal
:lol Given how Denver and SAC seem to be rebuilding and how Portland can't get things right I think they might make the playoffs this season, but I would look forward to the next season when the coaches have time to adapt their gameplay to the new roster. I would love seeing them running a Princeton offence now that they have 2 big men who can shoot and pass the ball
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After all is said and done, I am pretty disappointed at RW for still not acknowledging KD, or make an effort to reconcile. Come on, grow up!
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that is an awful return for Cousins.
glad there is a front office worse than my Bucks.
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I couldn't care less about the Bulls or the Celtics, but that was a terrible, terrible call.
-J
It was definitely ticky-tack, and I have seen a lot worse not called, but whether we want to call it a swat or a love tap, if you touch the elbow of a player when he is in the act of shooting, you are risking having a foul called.
That's fair. I guess from watching the replay I didn't even think it was clear that there was any contact.
Also, with as often as officials change the way they call the game in the final seconds (a practice I vehemently disagree with by the way), for them to make a game-deciding call like that really rubs me the wrong way.
-J
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that is an awful return for Cousins.
glad there is a front office worse than my Bucks.
I don't think Bucks have an awful front office. At the very least, the Bucks have direction. I can't say the same for Sacramento, Orlando, Denver, Brooklyn, New York, and Los Angeles Lakers
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Re: Cousins trade
At first, I thought it was horrendous. But then I thought about it a little more. Sac wasn't going to be able to re-sign him. Cousins was saying all the right things, but a guy like that isn't going to stay with a franchise awash in mediocrity. Cousins is selfish and whiny, and is not a team leader. He's bad for a losing team's locker room. So the fact Sac got a rising star (Buddy Hield is going to be a star) to replace Rudy Gay (not sure when contract is up, but it is soon), and a first round pick (despite it being protected) is a pretty good return, altogether.
Sure, for a franchise that has a new arena, not having one of the best physical talents in the NBA is going to hurt -- ticket sales are going to be down. But Cousins is just a whiny brat, and restarting with a guy like Buddy Hield is a good move.
I was ripping the trade like everyone was when it was first announced. But I actually think, from a franchise standpoint, the Kings did the right thing in the long term.
p.s. forgot to comment on Tyreke Evans. Now back in Sacramento, who never used him correctly, I think Evans will thrive as a wing player. He's not a PG, like Sac tried to make him early on. He's a poor-man's Scottie Pippen. He'll average 16-6-6 and be a valuable piece. With him and Hield, Sacramento has a decent building base, and brings one of their draftees home.
Cousins is a superstar, and anythjing in return for him won't match up, talent-wise. But I think Sac did better than most people realize. Time will tell.
Now if my Wolves DON'T trade for Derrick Rose, I'd appreciate it...
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But I think Sac did better than most people realize. Time will tell.
I'm not in tune to the NBA as most are, but it seems 1. that they were desperate to get rid of him, and 2. nobody wanted him.
So they get the (6th??) pick in last year's draft (Hield), and another 1st Round draft choice this year.
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But I think Sac did better than most people realize. Time will tell.
I'm not in tune to the NBA as most are, but it seems 1. that they were desperate to get rid of him, and 2. nobody wanted him.
So they get the (6th??) pick in last year's draft (Hield), and another 1st Round draft choice this year.
Yes, along with a still young, and borderline all star level talent when healthy player (Evans -- who Sac originally drafted).
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Gotta give Draymond Green some props: he keeps coming up with new ways of, um, "accidentally" kicking other players. :lol :lol
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I would love someone to kicky him square in the nuts right to the infirmary. :lol
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I would love someone to kicky him square in the nuts right to the infirmary. :lol
It's only a matter of time. Remember Laimbeer in the 80s? Even though I rooted for that Pistons team, he deserved Robert Parrish clocking him in the face. While the rules of today are different to where you can't do that now (Parrish wasn't even ejected for that back then!), it is only a matter of time before someone "accidentally" hits Green somewhere he won't like. And as dirty as Laimbeer was, at least he owned his behavior. Green's constant "who, me?" routine is laughable and insult to people with two eyes.
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(https://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn200/nbacardDOTnet/zz%20NBA%20Photo%20Gallery/z%20Funny%20NBA%20Photos/Funny%20Situation/parishlaimbeer.gif)
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I don't even need Tim's gif. I was at that game.
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That's right. If you look at the gif closely, there's some dude with a mullet in a flowered shirt.
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No way. I was in my 3/4 sleeve press on Rush decal shirt. :lol
I went to see BC vs. Georgetown when both were top 10 teams. Patrick Ewing was a sophomore.
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I had a Rush decal shirt. It was on a baseball style 3/4 sleeve shirt.
Oh wait, you already said that! :facepalm:
:lol
Mine was the Hemisheres guy and the star.
I also had a Highway To Hell decal shirt.
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Don't forget your ELP Love Beach t-shirt.
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Um.. I didn't have one of those. :lol
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:lol
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Off topic... :biggrin:
I am watching the Lakers @ Thunder when typing this message. The LA crew did a prolonged interview with Magic. He definitely sounds like he know what he is doing, and I am feeling MUCH BETTER about him being in charge now. :lol
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Dan Lebatard would disagree. :lol
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Dan Lebetard is a douchebag. He makes Magic Johnson look like a genius.
BTW, how is Magic still alive?
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That was sarcasm. I hate the A-hole.
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BTW, how is Magic still alive?
He got lucky in a way, I think... his HIV virus got under control just in-time before it becomes a full blown AIDS, I guess?
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Lebatard is awful (like most ESPN personalities these days).
As for the Lakers, they have nowhere to go but up, so Magic has a pretty easy bar to clear as far as being a success.
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Magic also had the money back then, and now, to afford the best medications. I am sure the pill box he no doubt carries with him is sizeable. Not saying that in a mean way. But he can afford to take care of himself.
As for his new gig, I think it was a fantastic hire. Magic has a keen sense of basketball talent and business. It wouldn't surprise me if he pulled a coup this summer on the scale of Shaq or Kobe back in the day, and got the Lakers back to winning ways next season.
Was glad to see my Wolves get a win last night (in person). Sloppy game, but dispatched the Kings (whose trade of Cousins is getting deadpanned, but I think it was very smart, after my initial WTF comment about it). The Wolves, I think, have realized they made a mistake signing Dieng to a big contract. I expect them to off load both him and Rubio this offseason. Rubio for sure. But Dieng...he is just a poor offensive player. They are better with Bjelica (not sure on spelling off hand) on the floor, as his jumper has to be respected out beyond the 3 pt line, and he can also get in and bang in the paint.
Wiggins and Towns are REALLY coming along. Both are going to be all stars next year. Towns for sure, Wiggins will likely deserve it, but may be on the outside looking in. Once Lavine gets healthy, those three...next year, wow. Going to be big. Tyus Jones is ready to start at PG, but it seems pretty clear Thibs is eyeing Dunn, after drafting him this past year. I think Dunn will be the starter, but Jones is going to be sixth man, and be a damn good one too. He has really come a long way.
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Rumor is that Durant will be out for perhaps the rest of the regular season. I hope he's OK. Sadly, if he is out for the rest of the year, or even longer, it will actually make the NBA more interesting, because I don't think anyone else has a shot against a fully healthy Warriors squad. Again though, I'd rather Durant be alright and the season be boring than see the dude have to go through another tough injury.
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Rumor is that Durant will be out for perhaps the rest of the regular season. I hope he's OK. Sadly, if he is out for the rest of the year, or even longer, it will actually make the NBA more interesting, because I don't think anyone else has a shot against a fully healthy Warriors squad. Again though, I'd rather Durant be alright and the season be boring than see the dude have to go through another tough injury.
It sucks and it is sad, I like KD... but hey, injury is part of the game, right? So if the Dubs want a title badly enough, they will figure it out somehow. Good luck to them. :hat
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Last I heard earlier this morning, they didn't know if it would be the rest of the regular season or just a few weeks. But he WILL be back for the playoffs. I think it's actually worse news for the rest of the league. Durant has already gelled with the rest of the team. Forcing them to give their bench guys more play and experience only makes them better.
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Last I heard earlier this morning, they didn't know if it would be the rest of the regular season or just a few weeks. But he WILL be back for the playoffs. I think it's actually worse news for the rest of the league. Durant has already gelled with the rest of the team. Forcing them to give their bench guys more play and experience only makes them better.
I could also see Steph returning to God status now that's he's got a little more responsibility and less apprehension about being super aggressive.
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It's now quite possible that the Spurs could catch the Warriors and snag the 1 seed; they are only 3 games back in the loss column with 20+ to play.
And with Durant's health now in question, Cleveland should be a favorite to repeat.
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The moves the Cavs made were huge. Sure, Boston beat them last night, but the Cavs, with Love back will be incredible. I think JR Smith sucks (just deal with it, he's horrible), but he's a sixth man who ain't afraid to put the rock up. I don't see anyone beating the Cavs in a series. PERHAPS Toronto, but Lowry needs to get healthy and have time to gel with the new pieces on that team.
Boston will be an interesting story. I've always loved Thomas. Love his attitude, love his game, which WISH he was on my Wolves. But when you have a guy who is listed at 5'9" (who is closer to 5'6") getting pummeled to the floor every night, it will take its toll eventually. Boston held off from doing anything, and that may bode well for next year, but it really screwed them for this year. I don't see them making it all the way.
Washington is good, but I still feel like they need to prove themselves. I just don't believe in them. But those four teams. Class of the East.
Not worried about the Warriors. Durant resting while rehabbing his injury is literally the nightmare of every team. He'll be fresh for the playoffs, and that is really scary. He'll probably get in a game or two before the playoffs, and then unleash hell on everyone.
I'm really hoping the Wolves can grind their way to the 8th seed. They'll get bounced, but it'd do wonders for the team to make it in. Can't wait to see what happens, and no matter what, next season is going to be huge if Lavine is back and healthy...and we get some frontcourt depth.
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Boston will be an interesting story. I've always loved Thomas. Love his attitude, love his game, which he was on my Wolves. But when you have a guy who is listed at 5'9" (who is closer to 5'6") getting pummeled to the floor every night, it will take its toll eventually. Boston held off from doing anything, and that may bode well for next year, but it really screwed them for this year. I don't see them making it all the way.
The good news is that Avery Bradley returned from missing 20 or so games. Defensively, they are a different team with him on the floor.
The bad news is that their Bigs are way too soft..and overpaid. Amir Johnson is just OK, and while Kelly Olinyk can shoot, he's way too soft on the boards. Same goes for Tyler Zeller (@$8million) who SUCKS, as does Jerebko. Ibaka would've been perfect for them.
Ainge has his eye on the Opt Outs next summer. But other than Jae Crowder, their front court is very soft, and they will NOT make it out of the first round.
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I don't have any confidence in them until they win a round in the playoffs.
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It will not be this year, unless they draw someone like Indiana. They will not beat Washington, Toronto, or Atlanta.
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Boston will be an interesting story. I've always loved Thomas. Love his attitude, love his game, which he was on my Wolves. But when you have a guy who is listed at 5'9" (who is closer to 5'6") getting pummeled to the floor every night, it will take its toll eventually. Boston held off from doing anything, and that may bode well for next year, but it really screwed them for this year. I don't see them making it all the way.
The good news is that Avery Bradley returned from missing 20 or so games. Defensively, they are a different team with him on the floor.
The bad news is that their Bigs are way too soft..and overpaid. Amir Johnson is just OK, and while Kelly Olinyk can shoot, he's way too soft on the boards. Same goes for Tyler Zeller (@$8million) who SUCKS, as does Jerebko. Ibaka would've been perfect for them.
Ainge has his eye on the Opt Outs next summer. But other than Jae Crowder, their front court is very soft, and they will NOT make it out of the first round.
Bradley is SOLID. I love that dude's game.
If Boston nabs Gordon Hayward, i think with him at the 3, Thomas at the 1, Bradley at the 2, SOMEONE at the 4, and Horford at the 5, they have a solid starting unit. But I don't think Ainge is going to settle for that. I think he has bigger plans, honestly. It wouldn't surprise me at all if he re-engaged the Bulls about Butler.
Butler is quick enough, 6'7" 231 to play off guard. hayward is similar 6'8", 226.
If Ainge can get Chicago to bite without losing Bradley, he's going to. It may end up being Brown and a first rounder, but he's going to get Butler. Bradley will then come off the bench as the 6th man. And I imagine Boston will draft a physical presence to play the 4.
Horford
PF
Hayward
Butler
Thomas
6th: Bradley
>>>>That's a pretty damn intense starting unit there. I'm anxious to see what Ainge does.
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Boston will be an interesting story. I've always loved Thomas. Love his attitude, love his game, which he was on my Wolves. But when you have a guy who is listed at 5'9" (who is closer to 5'6") getting pummeled to the floor every night, it will take its toll eventually. Boston held off from doing anything, and that may bode well for next year, but it really screwed them for this year. I don't see them making it all the way.
The good news is that Avery Bradley returned from missing 20 or so games. Defensively, they are a different team with him on the floor.
The bad news is that their Bigs are way too soft..and overpaid. Amir Johnson is just OK, and while Kelly Olinyk can shoot, he's way too soft on the boards. Same goes for Tyler Zeller (@$8million) who SUCKS, as does Jerebko. Ibaka would've been perfect for them.
Ainge has his eye on the Opt Outs next summer. But other than Jae Crowder, their front court is very soft, and they will NOT make it out of the first round.
Horford
PF
Hayward
Butler
Thomas
6th: Bradley
>>>>That's a pretty damn intense starting unit there. I'm anxious to see what Ainge does.
I highly doubt Ainge is interested in anything like this. Every reporter I've read has said that if they can get Hayward then they'll keep the pick and select a good guy they can develop to make a long run with good players. All these assets they've been gathering can translate in a long stretch of success. Getting Butler & Hayward together doesn't make sense in a team that is playing like they are, it would almost be like starting over.
I could imagine Crowder moving to the PF spot if they get Hayward seeing how almost every team is going small ball these days and he shouldn't have any problem guarding most of the guys that play that position.
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We'll see. Ainge has been brilliant so far, so I would always give him the benefit of the doubt.
If he wants Dieng from the Wolvea, he can have him. :lol
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Jim Buss is too much. We fans know he is a bad owner with poor business sense... come on now Jim, stop it before it turn into a bigger joke than it is now, and just quit f-ing up your sister and the Lakers' future. :facepalm:
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100% agree. Crazy to see the mighty fall because the head is rotting from the head.
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Jim Buss is an ass.
On another note, someone get the Target Center crew bigger mops. Unreal what happened last night in Minnesota. Not unheard of (happened in Philly this year), but seriously, come on.
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??? What happened?
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the head is rotting from the head.
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??? What happened?
The game was postponed due to a slippery court caused by condensation from an ice sheet underneath it and outside humidity on a day in which temperatures reached the mid-60s.
By the way, I am not a Cavs fan but it sucks their new center (Bogut) lasted just all of 58 seconds in his debut, and now he is likely gone for the rest of the year with a broken tibia. :facepalm:
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??? What happened?
The game was postponed due to a slippery court caused by condensation from an ice sheet underneath it and outside humidity on a day in which temperatures reached the mid-60s.
That kind of thing happened all of the time at the old Boston Garden.
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That kind of thing happened all of the time at the old Boston Garden.
Yep, that's why I find it amusing to see some newer fans are acting like this is such an embarrassing story or something. It happens more often than people think. Just re-schedule the game.
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my Bucks forever teetering the 8th seed/lotto line.
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With the Bulls keep free falling lately; combining with both the Heat and Bucks' recent surges, those 3 teams are only separated by half a game for the #8 spot. Not disrespecting your Bucks, but I think the Heat could get in at the end.
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Well, the Spurs and Warriors game tonight has become a huge topic of discussion, but maybe not for the right reasons. The top two teams in the NBA were supposed to duke it out in their first game since the season opener. Pop and Kerr. Master and former apprentice. Curry vs The Klaw.
However, Kerr decided to sit four his starters for this game after it was announced yesterday that Kawhi Leonard were to undergo concussion protocol and would miss Saturday nights game. Whether that factored into Kerr's decision into sitting Curry, Thompson, Green, and Igoudala has not been confirmed. But it seems weird that the Spurs are tailgating them to the #1 seed, which they are half a game away of getting, and he would risk that by sitting down his starters.
So all game long, Mark Jackson and Jeff Van Gundy were bitching about resting players in the league is now common. I can see how this is a bad look business wise....there was a moment during the game where they showed a family from Mexico who spent all this money to go see the Warriors play, and their sons favorite players weren't playing....but in my opinion, until the league works out a less rigorous schedule where teams aren't playing back to back games flying from Eastern time to Pacific time, and vice versa, on a daily basis, i think its ok to rest your starters every once in awhile. Traveling is exhausting, and if you're exhausted, you are more prone to injuries.
Those are my two cents. What are everyone else's thoughts?
Oh, and I have to mention about my boy LaMarcus Aldridge, who is out indefinitely with heart arrhythmia. Obviously a big loss for my Spurs, who had a big presence in the paint and averaged 18 points and 7 rebounds a game...I hope he gets cleared by playoff time, but i don't want him to risk his life by continuing to play if it's ongoing matter...like Chris Bosh, who can't play! Here's a to a speedy recovery for LA
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I applaud Kerr's decision to sit his players. If the NBA doesn't like it, too freaking bad. Don't have such a moronic schedule. This was GS's 5th game in the last 7 days:
at NY (northeast)
at Atl (southeast)
home (west coast)
at Minnesota last night (north midwest)
at San Antonio tonight (south)
Golden St is playing this year to win the championship. If they want to rest their players at times, that is their right. Everyone is entitled to a game off.
As for the business side and the fans who feel cheated, that is the NBA's problem. It is not the job of the Warriors, or any team, to make sure that fans in other cities, or even their own, get their money's worth for every game.
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Agreed!
Also, there were tweets by the fans who were complaining that they are making too much money to sit and rest...don't they make that money to stay healthy to play and try to win a championship?
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Fans...check that...people complaining on Twitter? I can't believe it. :rollin :rollin :rollin
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Right? Unheard of! :lol
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I agree with Kev's post.
As to why rest them when the Spurs are right on their heels for the #1, the general consensus around the Bay Area since the KD injury seems to be: (1) We still think we can likely hold onto the #1 seed and make up some distance once this weird stretch of games with almost no breaks is over; and (2) Even if they fall to #2, that isn't really a game changer at all come playoff time. Obviously, either point is open for debate, but that's the thinking.
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Wolves 7-3 in their last 10 after a big win against the Wizards last night. Pushing for that 8th spot in the Western Conference. Loving it!
GS should be ashamed of itself if it can't hold on. For goodness sakes they have three all stars in the starting lineup. They need to start playing like it. :lol
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I agree with Kev's post.
As to why rest them when the Spurs are right on their heels for the #1, the general consensus around the Bay Area since the KD injury seems to be: (1) We still think we can likely hold onto the #1 seed and make up some distance once this weird stretch of games with almost no breaks is over; and (2) Even if they fall to #2, that isn't really a game changer at all come playoff time. Obviously, either point is open for debate, but that's the thinking.
Agreed on #2. They would only lose home court to the Spurs, but they have home court advantage on any Eastern team even if they drop another 8 games or so. And after last season I think Kerr knows it's more important to reach the playoffs with as much energy as you can
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Getting out of the West would be tougher as the 2 seed than the 1. Having to play Houston in the 2nd round and then beating the Spurs without home court would be far more difficult than getting the 4/5 seed in the second round and then the Spurs with home court. If Durant is back and healthy, and they get back on track, they can still make it out of the West from any spot, but it might take more games and cause more wear and tear, thus making them not as fresh by the time the Finals come around. I think being taken to 7 by the Thunder in the WCF last year definitely took a toll on them later in the Cavs series. The Warriors are a jump-shooting team, and it's not as easy to make jump shots with less fresh/tired legs.
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Well, given the Warriors type of play I think they'd much rather play against Houston than Utah or the Clippers who have a tougher defense and more physical game overall. But, it would also be a lot easier going through Denver in the first round that beating OKC. There's still plenty of games so we'll see how this plays out.
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Getting out of the West would be tougher as the 2 seed than the 1. Having to play Houston in the 2nd round and then beating the Spurs without home court would be far more difficult than getting the 4/5 seed in the second round and then the Spurs with home court. If Durant is back and healthy, and they get back on track, they can still make it out of the West from any spot, but it might take more games and cause more wear and tear, thus making them not as fresh by the time the Finals come around. I think being taken to 7 by the Thunder in the WCF last year definitely took a toll on them later in the Cavs series. The Warriors are a jump-shooting team, and it's not as easy to make jump shots with less fresh/tired legs.
I think you pointed out the Warriors advantage right there -- Durant back means fresh legs on HIS jumper. So unlike last year, where Curry was injured and Klay was tired, they'll have Durant (assuming fully healthy) completely fresh. I expect if the Warriors hang onto the 1 seed, they'll likely bounce whoever it is in the first round in fairly short order (even if it is my Wolves). But if Durant uses that series to build up his stamina, he'll be golden by round 2, and for the Warriors' fans sake, it might enable Steph and Klay to recoup a bit.
Although obviously I'm hoping the Wolves get in and make it a series.
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Although obviously I'm hoping the Wolves get in .
Hoping their run starts...tomorrow!
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It's not likely, but Houston, to me, has a puncher's chance against GS just because they are the team that can actually outshoot them from deep. If they can string together a couple of 20-threes-made nights, they might at least take it to 7... and then Game 7s are always a wildcard. Again, not likely, but possible.
I tend to agree that peak Clippers could be a problem, that is, IF they can reach that peak. I'm not convinced that they can. But remember how they were the best team in the league for the first month of the season.
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Although obviously I'm hoping the Wolves get in .
Hoping their run starts...tomorrow!
Dick! :lol ;)
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Aldridge back on the court sooner than I thought! This good news. I don't think the Spurs' team doctors or Pop would've let him come back if his heart problem was serious. Something to still monitor though
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Not sure I've ever seen someone miss a free throw they're trying to make and then make one they're trying to miss in the same set of free throws ever. The fact that it happened to Manu Ginobili makes it all the more surprising.
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That was crazy. Ginobli was even like "How. HOW."
There's quite a few things that annoy me. Seeing San Antonio play sloppy defense and turn the ball over is DEFINITELY one of them. Missed switches on the pick that led to Lillard and McCollum 3's all night. And we went from 1st in the West to now 1 game behind Golden State in two days. Good to see Aldridge back but he missed too many shots. Time to clean it up and get ready for a road game at Memphis on Saturday
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Although obviously I'm hoping the Wolves get in .
Hoping their run starts...tomorrow!
Dick! :lol ;)
Just gotta say that seeing KAT in person, he's a freak!
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Not happy. Expected loss, but not happy. F Portland too. :lol
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Bucks back to .500 and 7th in the East!
Fear the Deer?
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Fear the Deer?
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BfF35GcCQAEEV48.png)
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At nearly full strength with rest, and the Cavs only beat the Lakers by 5 pts?! Boo! Lol! :lol
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Suddenly, I am a lot less worried about the Warriors' chances. Slumps always make fans feel uncomfortable. Glad to see them coming out of it strong.
Go T-Wolves!
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At nearly full strength with rest, and the Cavs only beat the Lakers by 5 pts?! Boo! Lol! :lol
Their effort level is disgusting sometimes. :lol
I get it - They're old and have nothing to prove in the regular season, but ranking near the bottom of the league in defensive rating is just brutal. If any team can flip the switch in the playoffs, it's them, but eventually their lackadaisical approach is bound to catch up with them.
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Go T-Wolves!
Oh well. So much for that.
But Warriors' magic number for the #1 seed is now single digits. 9 for the #1 seed; 3 for the #2. Which means they already have at least #3 locked up, and #2 may as well be. I think we'll have a pretty good idea about who is #1 and who is #2 after the San Antonio game next week. If the Warriors can hold their lead and then win that one, I think #1 is a done deal.
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Bosk, I hope we play each other at full strength. No resting players. KD will probably be put out but lets be honest, even without KD, Warriors are still hard to beat.
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You mean next week? Yeah, KD will not play. But otherwise, I am assuming the Warriors will give it their all. That is a pretty meaningful game. But what I am really looking forward to is finally getting a playoff series between these two teams at full strength. It should be one for the ages.
In other news...GO CELTICS!!! :ariich2:
EDIT: and GO GRIZZLIES!!! (tonight only)
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Okay, so THANKS FOR NOTHING, MEMPHIS!!! >:( Magic number is still 9 (although I fully expect it to be 8 after tonight).
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Go T-Wolves!
Oh well. So much for that.
But Warriors' magic number for the #1 seed is now single digits. 9 for the #1 seed; 3 for the #2. Which means they already have at least #3 locked up, and #2 may as well be. I think we'll have a pretty good idea about who is #1 and who is #2 after the San Antonio game next week. If the Warriors can hold their lead and then win that one, I think #1 is a done deal.
Wolves have reverted to their earlier form. Sucks. Hoping they can close out the year with a few good wins. They've showed a lot this year, but I think with Zach Lavine healthy, and some more depth, they'll be in the playoffs next year.
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Maybe the transition to Thibs took a bit longer than anticipated. I think the T-Wolves were a huge disappointment. With another year together, I expect them to be much better.
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Devin Booker just poured in 70 on the Celtics in a 130-120 loss in a game that was NEVER close. WOW!
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8
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7
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Devin Booker just poured in 70 on the Celtics in a 130-120 loss in a game that was NEVER close. WOW!
I actually watched that Suns @ Celtics game twice (I have the NBA League Pass)... sort of... I watched the entire Q4 twice! Honestly, that game really wasn't THAT exciting until about 5 minutes left, when Booker suddenly made a few crazy shots in a row; and pushed his points total past 50. Still, scoring 70 pts is special. I only scored 70 or more ONCE in NBA 2K, lol! :lol And as I was watching that game, I was surprised to know that not even Barkley scored 50 as a Sun. I thought he did... yet Tony Delk once scored 50+ points... I've completely forgotten that name, lol! :lol
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I have no idea who I want to win the Cleveland/San Antonio game. I mean, logic says Cleveland, to help the Warriors sew up the #1 seed. But rooting for the Cavs? Just...no.
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I have no idea who I want to win the Cleveland/San Antonio game. I mean, logic says Cleveland, to help the Warriors sew up the #1 seed. But rooting for the Cavs? Just...no.
It has been a long enough season as it is, I would so take a night off and rest @ Spurs if I were LBJ, lol! :lol
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Hard to see that happening though with them now trailing the Celtics for the #1 seed.
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Hard to see that happening though with them now trailing the Celtics for the #1 seed.
True, the C's do have a good chance in stealing the #1 seed from the LeBrons, but then aside from tonight's game @ Spurs, the rest of the LeBrons' schedule isn't that tough at all. In fact, they even face the C's once more in Boston. With a 2-1 season series lead, the LeBrons still have an upper hand in getting the #1 seed... unless they somehow fall to the Hawks (twice) or the Raptors in the regular season finale.
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I just think that the Cavs will turn it on in the playoffs and the C's haven't got out of the first round 2 years in a row. As a C's fan I need to see them with a round or 2 before I buy in.
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I have no idea who I want to win the Cleveland/San Antonio game. I mean, logic says Cleveland, to help the Warriors sew up the #1 seed. But rooting for the Cavs? Just...no.
The Spurs then play the Warriors on Wednesday and OKC on Friday. Tough week for them so you shouldn't worry even if they beat Cleveland
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Yeah, but at least the Spurs get a day in between. The Warriors play Houston tomorrow night, so they will the Spurs as the end of a back-to-back.
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That sucks for them....
Go Spurs!
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Judging by the half time scores, I thought LBJ actually took my advice and went get a night off, lol! :biggrin:
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We are watching that game too. Spurs look good!
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Still 7. Hoping for 4 by Wednesday night.
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Bosk right now
(https://media.tenor.co/images/bc9dbbb617e7c109947498dc5516ac52/raw)
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The Wolves' season just tanked the last six games. Tough schedule, but they should have won more than a few of those. Sucks. I am happy, however, that Boston jumped in front of Cleveland. I'm a big fan of Isaiah Thomas (loved it when he played for the Kings, my friend's son interviewed him, really nice guy), and glad to see he is getting MVP mentions and finding success.
MVP voting for me if done today:
Westbrook - can't deny the man has put that team on his shoulders and willed an injured and not overly talented or deep team to the playoffs. And man, in what a way, the triple-double machine.
Thomas - dude is listed at 5'9", but that is with his sneakers on. He's barely 5'7" and talk about shouldering the load. Not quite at the Westbrook level, but close enough. Any other year, and he'd probably win MVP. Just a gamer. Not quite the same handle as old school A.I., but he has a better jump shot. Dude is a stud. Hopefully he can excel in they playoffs and get that max extension he deserves. Rooting for him.
James - not gonna lie. I dislike how smug and fake Lebron is. But there is absolutely no denying how game-changing a player he is. Is he MJ? No. Is he Magic? Not quite. But he's a hell of a hybrid who gets a ton of shit because he bailed on Cleveland to go play for Miami. And I admit, I am one of those who continue to be jaded by his actions off the court (and his whiny behavior on it). But in a season where he lost Kevin Love, and J.R. Smith (who sucks, but story for another day), he's obviously right at the forefront of the MVP race.
Harden - I hate putting Beard man this low. But I have to. Arguably, he should be just under Westbrook. But here's the thing. Houston is a pretty deep team, and they run an offensive system catered to padding the statistics of the point guard. And Westbrook, already being a perennial all star, has completely reaped the benefits of that system. And I am happy for him. But it's a double-edged sword, because he wouldn't have nearly the same numbers not having the ball in his hands constantly. He'd be more like 25/5/5, which is a great year, but not MVP caliber in the league. So with apologies to Harden and Rockets fans, he has taken a hit in my book.
Leonard - with the exception of my Timberwolves trio, my favorite player in the league. Just a defensive beast, and has taken his offensive game to such killer heights (and I think he'll only get better). But playing for the Spurs, in that system, with a deep team, again, I think that hurts his chances. The Spurs would be successful without him. No, they wouldn't be as high as they are in the standings, but they'd still win 50 without him. I can't say that about any other team on this list. So for that reason, I feel Leonard is just a step below.
Looking forward to seeing how the end of the year plays out. Should be pretty amazing to watch.
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To me, Harden has pulled about even with James in the MVP race.
Westbrook is fun to watch, but his manufactured triple doubles are overrated once you read and see how he dogs it on defense to get rebounds and how his teammates frequently box out to make sure no one gets the rebound but him.
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Bosk right now
(https://media.tenor.co/images/bc9dbbb617e7c109947498dc5516ac52/raw)
Heck no, I'm enjoying the ride! Now if you wanted to apply that gif to this particular game right now, that's a different story.
But I AM raging at the NBA for the fact that a marquee game like Warriors/Rockets at this stage in the season is not televised for people who choose to not be ripped off and subscribe to NBATV. >:(
EDIT: And...6!!!
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If I have a vote, I am so voting for Kawhi Leonard of the Spurs. Kawhi has been a monster on both ends. He has been known for his defense for years, but it is his offensive skills that turn me into a fan of his these days! He reminds me of Kobe at times, and even he admits he stole a few moves from Kobe... watching him play both ends is really cool.
RW is my first runner up for MVP... Harden is good, but he only plays one end of the floor... lol! :lol
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Maybe I'm being a homer here, but DeRozan should be in the MVP discussion. He's 5th in the league in scoring, and carried the Raptors after Lowry went down with surgery. If not for the overall team funk after the All-Star break where they went 5-11, they'd be in the thick of it for #1 in the East.
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HUGE win for the Blazers over the Nuggets!! They are now the new owner of the #8 spot out west with a full game in front of these same Nuggets.
...and Lakers... please don't beat them Wiz... LOL! :lol :facepalm:
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To me, Harden has pulled about even with James in the MVP race.
James - not gonna lie. I dislike how smug and fake Lebron is. But there is absolutely no denying how game-changing a player he is. Is he MJ? No. Is he Magic? Not quite. But he's a hell of a hybrid who gets a ton of shit because he bailed on Cleveland to go play for Miami. And I admit, I am one of those who continue to be jaded by his actions off the court (and his whiny behavior on it). But in a season where he lost Kevin Love, and J.R. Smith (who sucks, but story for another day), he's obviously right at the forefront of the MVP race.
There's no way I can consider James as MVP. Sure, he's the best player in the league, but I don't feel like the Cavs are having a great season. I mean, aren't they expected to win the 1st seed? And they may, but they have certainly not done it in overwhelming fashion. In fact, for much of the season, the Cavs have been underwhelming. No way I can consider James for MVP. Not this year.
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Maybe I'm being a homer here, but DeRozan should be in the MVP discussion. He's 5th in the league in scoring, and carried the Raptors after Lowry went down with surgery. If not for the overall team funk after the All-Star break where they went 5-11, they'd be in the thick of it for #1 in the East.
The guy is amazing.
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Maybe I'm being a homer here, but DeRozan should be in the MVP discussion. He's 5th in the league in scoring, and carried the Raptors after Lowry went down with surgery. If not for the overall team funk after the All-Star break where they went 5-11, they'd be in the thick of it for #1 in the East.
The guy is amazing.
Demar gets a lot of unwarranted crap from people. At the end of the day, he's a really good player, even if his style of play is like something out of a time machine. I did not expect my Raptors to play this well without Lowry, but they've been awesome, and Demar is a huge reason why.
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To me, Harden has pulled about even with James in the MVP race.
James - not gonna lie. I dislike how smug and fake Lebron is. But there is absolutely no denying how game-changing a player he is. Is he MJ? No. Is he Magic? Not quite. But he's a hell of a hybrid who gets a ton of shit because he bailed on Cleveland to go play for Miami. And I admit, I am one of those who continue to be jaded by his actions off the court (and his whiny behavior on it). But in a season where he lost Kevin Love, and J.R. Smith (who sucks, but story for another day), he's obviously right at the forefront of the MVP race.
There's no way I can consider James as MVP. Sure, he's the best player in the league, but I don't feel like the Cavs are having a great season. I mean, aren't they expected to win the 1st seed? And they may, but they have certainly not done it in overwhelming fashion. In fact, for much of the season, the Cavs have been underwhelming. No way I can consider James for MVP. Not this year.
See, that goes back to whole Michael Jordan thing. He is expected to be great, so he is taken for granted. Think of it this way: LeBron James, one of the best players ever, is having one of his best seasons ever. Career highs in assists and rebounds per game, his 3rd best 3 pt-shooting season to date, his 3rd best field goal percentage to date, etc. And, unlike James Harden and Russell Westbrook, he actually plays defense.
The thing that cracks me up about the Westbrook love is many continue to ignore the fact that he is not an efficient player. He's a 42% shooter!! He continues to be a terrible 3-point shooter, yet heaves up 7 per game. Brilliant.
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No way I can consider James for MVP. Not this year.
See, that goes back to whole Michael Jordan thing. He is expected to be great, so he is taken for granted.
So we just give it to the best player?
I mean, why hasn't Bill Belichick won Coach Of The Year every year?
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I'm with Azyiu here, Leonard deserves the MVP because he is a beast on both ends of the court. He's able to shut down or at least slow down any player he's up against, he's become a scoring machine and he can win a game both on offense and on defense. I agree that the fact that he's on the Spurs hurts his chances because they're a well oiled machine but I don't think they would be close to the second spot in the west if he wasn't there.
The fact that Harden is in this discussion to me is a joke, he's putting up great numbers on offense but he doesn't play any defense at that hurts his team most times than not in games against good teams.
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While I agree that Leonard's 2-way player case is very strong, the fact is that, historically, being a quality 2-way player has not been a requirement for all MVP winners. Steph Curry, not a great defender. Steve Nash, Dirk -- also lackluster on D. I'm sure there are many more examples if you go through the list.
I also don't understand people criticizing Harden like he's putting up empty numbers or something... he's driving a system that's working really well. Did people begrudge Steve Nash his MVPs because he "always had the ball in his hand?" It's not like Harden is only looking for points; he's leading the league in assists, while also scoring almost 30 a game. That's ridiculous. And I'm not even a big Harden fan. Not to say he's the clear number 1 by any stretch, but he's right there at the top of the list for me.
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Best =/= Most Valuable
The criteria is so subjective, that it warrants these kinds of discussions, and the intangibles usually don't lead to a definitive favorite. Though (imo), it's a 2-horse race between Westbrook and Thomas. Where would either team be without them? OKC... undoubtably out of the playoffs; Boston... certainly not 1st in the east.
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Yeah, the criteria is undefined, certainly. But where would Houston be without Harden? Just a bunch of spot-up 3 point shooters with no one to get them the ball, right? I think Houston would be just as bad as OKC or Boston would be without their respective franchise guys. Also, IT isn't a good defender, either, so why is (lack of) defense only hurting Harden's case? Westbrook, too, isn't a good defender. LeBron hasn't been particularly good on that end this season, either, though he's certainly capable come playoff time. Leonard is the only one making a 2-way case, so I don't know why Harden is being singled out as the non-defender (which he most certainly is guilty of, just not the only one).
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My take on the MVP race is something along the lines of:
1. Harden - The advanced metrics don't like him quite as much as the conventional stats, but he's the main driver of a historically great offense and his usage is off the charts. Hard for me to ignore what he's doing.
2. Leonard - I'm warming up to the possibility that he deserves the number one spot. The Spurs don't depend on him to the same degree as the Rockets, Thunder, and Cavs depend on their main guy, but he takes San Antonio from good to great, which should not be underestimated.
3. Westbrook - His numbers are off the charts and he's made the Thunder relevant by himself. I think that the team would be absolutely awful without him.
4. James - What he's doing at age 32 and year 14 is borderline unprecedented. I think the other candidates have been a little better, and I'm also docking him points for blatantly not giving a crap half the time.
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Maybe I'm being a homer here, but DeRozan should be in the MVP discussion. He's 5th in the league in scoring, and carried the Raptors after Lowry went down with surgery. If not for the overall team funk after the All-Star break where they went 5-11, they'd be in the thick of it for #1 in the East.
In my rankings, Derozan finishes 6th for mvp. Outstanding year. Love his game.
P.s. regarding westbrook's 42 percent shooting...what was iverson's when he won mvp (and like westbrook, deserves it)?
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Maybe I'm being a homer here, but DeRozan should be in the MVP discussion. He's 5th in the league in scoring, and carried the Raptors after Lowry went down with surgery. If not for the overall team funk after the All-Star break where they went 5-11, they'd be in the thick of it for #1 in the East.
In my rankings, Derozan finishes 6th for mvp. Outstanding year. Love his game.
That's fair. I wouldn't put him top-3, but top 5/6 is completely fair.
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After wiggins, towns, lavine, leonard, and thomas, derozan is my next favorite player. Hope the Raptors do well. When is lowry back?
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After wiggins, towns, lavine, leonard, and thomas, derozan is my next favorite player. Hope the Raptors do well. When is lowry back?
He's been practicing this week, but only left-handed shots. He might be able to put some minutes in for Round 1 - but doubtful it'll be his usual 37+ minutes.
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Toronto matches up well against Boston. They just have their number.
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Toronto matches up well against Boston. They just have their number.
This is the basketball thread, you know. :lol
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After wiggins, towns, lavine, leonard, and thomas, derozan is my next favorite player. Hope the Raptors do well. When is lowry back?
He's been practicing this week, but only left-handed shots. He might be able to put some minutes in for Round 1 - but doubtful it'll be his usual 37+ minutes.
That's too bad. Those two guys remind me a lot of Tony Campbell (DeRozan) and Pooh Richardson (Lowry) from the TWolves expansion years. DeRozan and Lowry are better, for sure, but watching them, they remind me of my first favorite players. Especially Campbell and DeRozan.
I know no one here cares about the Wolves except for me, but I am really glad they snapped the six game losing streak with that win last night in Indiana. That streak not only crushed their playoff chances, but really killed the season for me as a fan. Just absolutely no defense. Even last night, they got lucky to get the win.
Not sure what it is going to take to get these guys to play tougher D, but it needs to happen. I'm no fan of Rubio, and never have been. But the dude has been playing well. That said, I hope they move him for some defensive-minded depth in the off season. Dunn is just about ready to take on the starting PG role, and he's a superior defender anyway. Once Lavine makes it back, I have to believe a starting unit of:
Towns
Dieng (needs to be more consistent on a nightly basis)
Wiggins
Lavine
Dunn
>>>>has a legitimate shot for a lower playoff seed next year, provided they all continue to get better and Coach Thibs brings in some guys he trusts in the rotation. He HAS TO LOWER the minutes Wiggins, Towns, and Lavine (prior to injury) are getting. They are up near 38 per night, and while young, that will tire them out, which this recent losing streak has shown -- particularly on the defensive end.
Here's hoping. Been a long playoff drought for us TWolves fans. It'd be nice to finally get into the dance and do some damage.
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Toronto matches up well against Boston. They just have their number.
This is the basketball thread, you know. :lol
My statement works well in Hockey as well this year. :lol
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if the Bucks get the Raps in the first round I hope Lowry doesn't play, he just kills them.
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if the Bucks get the Raps in the first round I hope Lowry doesn't play, he just kills them.
Bucks are going to be crazy good once healthy. Kidd has done a great job.
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if the Bucks get the Raps in the first round I hope Lowry doesn't play, he just kills them.
Bucks are going to be crazy good once healthy. Kidd has done a great job.
a lot of Bucks fans think the team is winning in spite of Kidd, me included.
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if the Bucks get the Raps in the first round I hope Lowry doesn't play, he just kills them.
Bucks are going to be crazy good once healthy. Kidd has done a great job.
No sir, they won't be healthy this spring... Jabari Parker is out with a second ACL tear...
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HUGE win for the Blazers over the Nuggets!! They are now the new owner of the #8 spot out west with a full game in front of these same Nuggets.
...and Lakers... please don't beat them Wiz... LOL! :lol :facepalm:
I'm still shocked Portland got Nurkic and a 1st for Plumlee. What a steal.
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I'm still shocked Portland got Nurkic and a 1st for Plumlee. What a steal.
Plus, Terry Stotts is really doing a good coaching job in developing these young guys. They are actually quite fun to watch this season, despite not having any real big name star... Lillard and McCollum ain't recognizable names if you ain't an NBA fan...
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I'm still shocked Portland got Nurkic and a 1st for Plumlee. What a steal.
Plus, Terry Stotts is really doing a good coaching job in developing these young guys. They are actually quite fun to watch this season, despite not having any real big name star... Lillard and McCollum ain't recognizable names if you ain't an NBA fan...
I remember Stotts in Milwaukee about ten years back, he was stuck with some bad talent and big egos. The results were not good.
Portland really handcuffed themselves with some bad contracts this past off season but they definitely have a killer backcourt tandem in Lillard and McCollum.
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if the Bucks get the Raps in the first round I hope Lowry doesn't play, he just kills them.
Bucks are going to be crazy good once healthy. Kidd has done a great job.
a lot of Bucks fans think the team is winning in spite of Kidd, me included.
Really? Obviously, I don't follow the Bucks quite as closely as a fan of the team would. What's the story on that?
if the Bucks get the Raps in the first round I hope Lowry doesn't play, he just kills them.
Bucks are going to be crazy good once healthy. Kidd has done a great job.
No sir, they won't be healthy this spring... Jabari Parker is out with a second ACL tear...
No, I know that. I meant next season. Parker, The Greek Freak (I can barely say it, much less spell it), a healthy Middleton (he's starting to get back to form), and some more seasoning should mean good things. I like the young PG the Bucks have.
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if the Bucks get the Raps in the first round I hope Lowry doesn't play, he just kills them.
Bucks are going to be crazy good once healthy. Kidd has done a great job.
a lot of Bucks fans think the team is winning in spite of Kidd, me included.
Really? Obviously, I don't follow the Bucks quite as closely as a fan of the team would. What's the story on that?
Kidd is a known name who just happens to be a close friend of one of the Bucks three majority owners and was hired behind the current GM's back.
there is no rhyme or reason to his in game decisions. his rotations are a mess and his minutes distributions are a mess. die hard Bucks fans like myself know Kidd doesn't really do any of the X's and O's of the offense or defense, the assistants are responsible for that. I firmly believe that if someone like Brad Stevens were coaching the team, the Bucks would be at least a top 4 team in the East right now.
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With all of this talk about First Place, I expect the Celtics to lose to the Bucks tonight.
When the Celtics Starting 5 (Thomas, Bradley, Crowder, Johnson, Horford) are together, the C's are 24-7. When not they are 24-19.
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No way I can consider James for MVP. Not this year.
See, that goes back to whole Michael Jordan thing. He is expected to be great, so he is taken for granted.
So we just give it to the best player?
When the best player is this much better than everybody else, yes.
Consider that many consider Kevin Durant the 2nd best player in the league, and the Warriors are on an 8-game winning streak WITHOUT him.
Meanwhile, the Cavs are 0-6 this season when James does not play.
Best =/= Most Valuable
The criteria is so subjective, that it warrants these kinds of discussions, and the intangibles usually don't lead to a definitive favorite. Though (imo), it's a 2-horse race between Westbrook and Thomas. Where would either team be without them? OKC... undoubtably out of the playoffs; Boston... certainly not 1st in the east.
Where would Cleveland be without James? Getting lottery balls again.
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When the best player is this much better than everybody else, yes.
Consider that many consider Kevin Durant the 2nd best player in the league, and the Warriors are on an 8-game winning streak WITHOUT him.
Meanwhile, the Cavs are 0-6 this season when James does not play.
Right... but as I recall he didn't play in those games not due to injury, rather he was resting... while I admit some of those second nights in a back-to-back set are tough, I don't recall guys like MJ, Pippen resting in their days.
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Right... but as I recall he didn't play in those games not due to injury, rather he was resting... while I admit some of those second nights in a back-to-back set are tough, I don't recall guys like MJ, Pippen resting in their days.
And? Him resting games is a total non-factor, as is what stars 20+ years ago did.
James is 2nd in the entire NBA in minutes played per game.
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Meanwhile, the Cavs are 0-6 this season when James does not play.
How many of those 6 games were Irving and/or Love out as well?
Where would Cleveland be without James? Getting lottery balls again.
No way.
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And? Him resting games is a total non-factor, as is what stars 20+ years ago did.
James is 2nd in the entire NBA in minutes played per game.
True, his total minutes played is second in the league this season, and you are somewhat right about those games he took off were non-factor. From a basketball stand point, he is definitely on the top of his game.
That being said, the league is about image and vanity, especially to causal fans. It just doesn't look good for business if your MVP takes nights off (he doesn't have to play 40+ minutes a game), especially on the road and a couple of those are nationally televised games.
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It's not the nights he takes off when he's in street clothes, it's the nights he takes off when he's in uniform.
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Meanwhile, the Cavs are 0-6 this season when James does not play.
How many of those 6 games were Irving and/or Love out as well?
Not sure.
Where would Cleveland be without James? Getting lottery balls again.
No way.
Close to it. You have to figure that a lot of those players wouldn't be there if James was not (quite a few of them are there to play with him and try to get a ring). That is part of his value, too, the fact that players want to play with him.
That being said, the league is about image and vanity, especially to causal fans. It just doesn't look good for business if your MVP takes nights off (he doesn't have to play 40+ minutes a game), especially on the road and a couple of those are nationally televised games.
I agree, but I think voters had "LeBron MVP fatigue" already, so they wouldn't give it to him this year even if he hadn't rested a handful of games. Voters love giving it to someone new or different. It is boring to give it to the same guy every year. It's why Jordan only won it five times.
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RW is going nutz in Orlando as we speak!
He single handedly brought the Thunder back and forced OT... and his stats line goes something like 55/11/11... and there is still nearly 3 minutes left in OT! Wow! :o
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Where would Cleveland be without James? Getting lottery balls again.
No way.
Close to it. You have to figure that a lot of those players wouldn't be there if James was not (quite a few of them are there to play with him and try to get a ring). That is part of his value, too, the fact that players want to play with him.
Probably merit to that.
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With all of this talk about First Place, I expect the Celtics to lose to the Bucks tonight.
When the Celtics Starting 5 (Thomas, Bradley, Crowder, Johnson, Horford) are together, the C's are 24-7. When not they are 24-19.
Bucks win!
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4!!!!
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I'm amazed at how much of a liability Parker has become this season, he's just not doing anything for the Spurs right now. Come the playoffs, I expect Pop to give Patty Mills more minutes than he is getting right now.
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The Cavs are having a dreadful month of March. I know some say they are just bored and that they will flip the switch come the playoffs, but playing such a bad defense for such an extended period will probably hurt them because it might take them some time to get out of the bad habits. Still, they'll probably win the east but the extra effort will hurt them during the finals.
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Honestly, I'm not sure I see them making it out of the East to the championship.
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The Cavs are having a dreadful month of March. I know some say they are just bored and that they will flip the switch come the playoffs, but playing such a bad defense for such an extended period will probably hurt them because it might take them some time to get out of the bad habits. Still, they'll probably win the east but the extra effort will hurt them during the finals.
Agreed. There is currently no solid, statistical basis to think that they have any chance of winning the title. Their defense is simply too bad and their players too unhealthy. That said, they do have one trump card: LeBron James. If he can play another historically great Finals, they have a chance against anyone.
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You guys are so negative... the Cavs look awfully good tonight... against the Sixers. :lol
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The Dubs, and especially Curry, made some absolutely sick plays in the game last night. But what an unbelievable stretch of basketball over the last 2 weeks or so with wins over OKC, Memphis, Houston (twice), San Antonio, and Washington. Magic number down to 2!
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Well, Dubs can lock up the #1 tonight with a win and a Spurs loss. Go Grizz!
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Warriors look great right now, and apparently Durant is coming back on Saturday. They're going to be hard to beat. Meanwhile my Raptors have clawed their way back to the third seed. I hope that Boston finishes second so that we can play them and potentially prove the doubters wrong. :metal
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I hope that Boston finishes second so that we can play them and potentially prove the doubters wrong. :metal
Meh, let them take the #1, and just silence the doubters by beating the Cavs and then beating the Celtics.
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Wolves play like crap, blow their playoff chances, and now win two in a row. I'm not really pissed, because winning is winning, but unreal...
Looking to the offseason (will be watching playoffs, but sadly, the long streak of not being in it continues), I honestly don't know now what the Wolves should do with Rubio. Dude is playing like an all-star since the all-star break, and I think if he can continue, it'd be stupid to trade him. He's still young, and gels well with the team. As long as he can keep up the shooting, he'll be fine.
Assuming that happens, the team needs frontcourt depth and some really defensive-minded role players. We'll see what happens. But I think with a healthy Lavine, the Wolves will finally get into the playoffs next year.
As for this year, rooting for the Raptors and Bucks in the East. In the West, go Grizzlies! It'll never happen, and Adam Silver would swallow hard, but I'd love to see the Raptors or Bucks vs. the Grizzlies in the finals. lol.
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I hope that Boston finishes second so that we can play them and potentially prove the doubters wrong. :metal
Meh, let them take the #1, and just silence the doubters by beating the Cavs and then beating the Celtics.
(https://replygif.net/i/1126.gif)
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I hope that Boston finishes second so that we can play them and potentially prove the doubters wrong. :metal
Meh, let them take the #1, and just silence the doubters by beating the Cavs and then beating the Celtics.
Might as well take down the Dubs in the Finals while we're at it, then the Olympic team a couple of years from now...
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:lol Just trying to be supportive.
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Wolves play like crap, blow their playoff chances, and now win two in a row. I'm not really pissed, because winning is winning, but unreal...
Looking to the offseason (will be watching playoffs, but sadly, the long streak of not being in it continues), I honestly don't know now what the Wolves should do with Rubio. Dude is playing like an all-star since the all-star break, and I think if he can continue, it'd be stupid to trade him. He's still young, and gels well with the team. As long as he can keep up the shooting, he'll be fine.
Assuming that happens, the team needs frontcourt depth and some really defensive-minded role players. We'll see what happens. But I think with a healthy Lavine, the Wolves will finally get into the playoffs next year.
As for this year, rooting for the Raptors and Bucks in the East. In the West, go Grizzlies! It'll never happen, and Adam Silver would swallow hard, but I'd love to see the Raptors or Bucks vs. the Grizzlies in the finals. lol.
No offense, but I want them to lose tonight. But after tonight, they can win out and finish the season strong. :biggrin:
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I hope that Boston finishes second so that we can play them and potentially prove the doubters wrong. :metal
Meh, let them take the #1, and just silence the doubters by beating the Cavs and then beating the Celtics.
2 back of CLE with CLE being the only +.500 team they face; whereas the Cavs have Boston, home/home with the Hawks, and then we close against each other. That last game of the season could be for 2nd seed.
Though, there would be something very sweet with Tor/Bos series in both the NBA and NHL. Very conceivable at this point.
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For you maybe Chad. :lol
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By the way, for clarification, I meant let the Celtics take the #1, not the Raptors. I mean, I wouldn't mind Toronto climbing into the top spot, but it's a long shot with so few games left. I hadn't realized how close the top 4 in the east are right now. Top 4 and bottom 4 are very fluid within those brackets. In the west, I think we're pretty set other than perhaps the 4 and 5 flipping and/or the 6 and 7 flipping.
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Ugly, sloppy game by the Warriors last night. For too much of the first half, they looked bored. Hard to blame them, with the #1 all but clinched and after coming off of that incredibly difficult stretch of games undefeated against the Spurs, Rockets, Wizards, and Grizzlies. I can imagine it can be hard to keep focus this late in the season. But the missed open shots, the shot selection, the turnovers, and the sloppy defense were frustrating. Toward the end of the first half, I couldn't figure out how they somehow had 67 points and an 8 point lead. I think this team is done with the regular season and just looking ahead to the playoffs now. That's understandable, but a dangerous mindset to fall into.
On the other side of the ball, I liked what I saw from the T-Wolves. Never really paid attention to them, as their games aren't on much out here if they aren't playing the Warriors or Kings.
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The Wolves played like crap. :lol
Yeah, the Warriors are the Warriors, but I really did not like what I saw. I shut the game off when Thibs took out Wiggins to start the 4th, knowing he and Towns would get the rest of the night off (they lead the league in minutes, I believe). The Wolves need two things in a major way this offseason -- a bench playmaker for the backcourt, and an athletic big who provides active defense...and knows how to box out. Seriously. If I have to watch Dieng allow another guard to fly through the lane and grab a rebound, I may destroy the TV. Our biggest loss this year wasn't Zach Lavine...it was Beijca (bad spelling on his name), who is a stretch 4 that plays smart defense that was a major reason why the Wolves had that big winning run that put them close to the 8 seed a month ago. We lost him, and not surprisingly, the losses came...
Dieng is talented, but his shot is very slow, he pump fakes too much, and he's just not a very active, heady defender. And the Wolves can't afford to have him playing major minutes next year. I'm hoping someone bites on him as trade bait, given his solid stats, and the team brings in a better defensive presence.
I know this is a pipe dream, but given his knee injury, I'm hoping Derrick Rose can be had for peanuts this fall, and would accept a 6th man role. I know he probably won't, but based on what I saw this year, if he'd be content coming off the bench and playing 25-30 minutes a night, I could see him being the bench playmaker they need. Dude might average the same points coming off the bench, and be 6th man of the year.
Not sure what defensive minded, active, athletic bigs are out there, but the Wolves need to grab one of those too. Good season of improvement for the Wolves, but they still have a long way to go.
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I know this is a pipe dream, but given his knee injury, I'm hoping Derrick Rose can be had for peanuts this fall, and would accept a 6th man role. I know he probably won't, but based on what I saw this year, if he'd be content coming off the bench and playing 25-30 minutes a night, I could see him being the bench playmaker they need. Dude might average the same points coming off the bench, and be 6th man of the year.
I don't see that happening. The team seems to be very eager to watch Kris Dunn develop, bringing in Rose without traiding Rubio would make no sense whatsoever
Not sure what defensive minded, active, athletic bigs are out there, but the Wolves need to grab one of those too. Good season of improvement for the Wolves, but they still have a long way to go.
Paul Millsap is a free agent. If the T-wolves can lure him they'll become playoff contenders immediately.
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Here's a fun, nerdy discussion on the MVP race for those interested: https://www.blogtalkradio.com/duncdon/2017/04/05/2017-mvp-deep-dive
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Yeah, the Warriors are the Warriors, but I really did not like what I saw.
You didn't like what you saw from the Warriors or from the T-Wolves? I didn't really like what I saw from the Warriors for a lot of the game. Curry in particular seemed like he was bored and just clowning around. I mean, it's one thing to just go out and have fun, and when you are in the position that team is in at this stage of the season, it can be hard to maintain focus and go out and play hard. But there is a fine line between having fun and coming across as not taking the other team seriously and disrespecting them. I don't think for a moment that the latter is where Curry's head was. But his on-court play could easily be construed that way. And, again, the lack of focus on his part (and some others on the team not named Green or Thompson) led to sloppiness. But maybe I'm just overthinking it and I need to just realize that that comes with the territory for a team that is about to clinch the #1 seed for a third straight season. :dunno:
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No matter what Labron said about this just being a regular season game, the Cavs have come to play tonight. Seen a number of Cavs games this year and this is as serious as they have approached a game. Up on the Celts by 15 at the half.
The Celts are having an awful night shooting. They're open, but can't knock anything down.
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That was an awful game for the Celtics, they could't hit water from a boat and Cleveland really cam out to play, I was expecting a fun game but that didn't happen.
Also, can someone tell the lakers they really need to tank? They beat the Spurs yesterday....
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That was a big clank by the C's last night. At home no less.
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Yup. Cleveland came out Playoff Ready last night. That was clear.
The Celtics didn't. That was clearer.
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Lowry back with 42 minutes was a nice injection for the Raptors - despite being down 37-17 early in the 2nd, and down by 12 starting the 4th, they came in with 37 in the final quarter to help Detroit snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. I'd really like us to stay ahead of the Wizards, and avoid the Bucs in the 1st round.
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#1 clinched. Man, this has been a fun season. But nothing to do now but get ready for the playoffs.
Too bad about Boston. I was really hoping they would have completely embarrassed the Cavs. Oh well.
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Looks like the playoff picture is pretty set as well for the west.
Warriors vs. either Portland or Denver (#8 seed is still up for grabs)
Spurs vs. Grizz
Rockets vs. Thunder (although, technically, the Thunder could overtake the Clippers for the 5, even though unlikely)
Jazz vs. probably Clippers, with home court still up in the air
East still has too many variables.
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Looks like the finals are set:
Cavs vs Warriors
Barring an injury to one of the stars on either team, that is the finals. Both teams had spells this year where they were bored and didn't look great, but when push comes to shove, these are the best teams from each conference.
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Looks like the finals are set:
Cavs vs Warriors
Barring an injury to one of the stars on either team, that is the finals. Both teams had spells this year where they were bored and didn't look great, but when push comes to shove, these are the best teams from each conference.
That's why I've gravitated away from the NBA.
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Looks like the finals are set:
Cavs vs Warriors
Barring an injury to one of the stars on either team, that is the finals. Both teams had spells this year where they were bored and didn't look great, but when push comes to shove, these are the best teams from each conference.
That's why I've gravitated away from the NBA.
??? Why?
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For the most part, the best teams always make it. The C's are a perfect example. Regular season doesn't mean anything and star players do. I watch still, not like I used to.
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That's how the NBA has always been for as back as I can remember. It just about every season, the team that won it all was one of maybe four or five teams at most you thought before the beginning of the season had a legit chance to win it. There is never a 2001 Patriots, 2012 LA Kings or 2005 White Sox in the NBA.
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That's how the NBA has always been for as back as I can remember. It just about every season, the team that won it all was one of maybe four or five teams at most you thought before the beginning of the season had a legit chance to win it. There is never a 2001 Patriots, 2012 LA Kings or 2005 White Sox in the NBA.
Pretty much. Although the Warriors 2 years ago were kinda that. 2013 was really their "out of nowhere year" when Mark Jackson got them to the playoffs for the first time in forever. But they were early outs in 2013 and 2014, and when Kerr came in, people generally assumed that they would tail off and go into rebuild mode. And when they kept winning in the regular season in 2014/2015, there was a lot of both surprise and resentment. I remember hearing on a lot of sports media that the Western Conference belonged to the Spurs, with the Clippers and Thunder being the acceptable contenders to the Spurs' "alpha dog" role. Those upstart Warriors better just learn their place and wait their turn. That was the narrative. Despite making it to the playoffs the two prior years, nobody took them seriously in 2014/2015, and people were in shock when they swept the Pelicans, beat the Grizzlies 4-2, and beat the Rockets 4-2 to advance to the finals. So they weren't quite the 2001 Patriots, 2012 LA Kings or 2005 White Sox in the NBA, but they weren't too far off of that either.
But to your point, I do agree that that has generally always the case. Surprise teams are few and far between.
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I know Kev will love this but what LeBron has done in the last 6 years goes to show how great he is and the burden he us under and still produce like he does.
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Hah, very true!
And while some probably think like I am come off as a LeBron Superfan, I'm really not. Heck, I rooted against him and the Heat in the 2011 finals, largely because I thought the officials totally jobbed the Mavericks in the 06 finals and wanted to see Cuban and Dirk get a championship and some measure of revenge on Stern. But I think much of the criticism of James is so freaking stupid that I usually find myself disagreeing with it and putting those thoughts into words (verbally in real life, on screen on the 'net).
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We can all hate him and understand how gr a at he is.
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And while some probably think like I am come off as a LeBron Superfan, I'm really not. Heck, I rooted against him and the Heat in the 2011 finals, largely because I thought the officials totally jobbed the Mavericks in the 06 finals and wanted to see Cuban and Dirk get a championship and some measure of revenge on Stern. But I think much of the criticism of James is so freaking stupid that I usually find myself disagreeing with it and putting those thoughts into words (verbally in real life, on screen on the 'net).
Every single word of this describes my position as well.
On another note, I saw an interesting stat about Westbrook's season as compared to Oscar in '61; apparently WB is averaging like 11 fewer minutes per game! I've been a huge critic of the guy and his decision making at times, but I'm out of things to criticize at this point. He's done something seriously amazing that I did not think would be done again.
That said, it's fairly amazing that both LeBron and James Harden have put up average numbers that are almost as good this season! LeBron is averaging like 26-8-8 and Harden 29-8-11. AND LeBron's averages in assists and rebounds are the highest of his career, in his 14th season. Ridiculous stuff.
-J
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We can all hate him and understand how gr a at he is.
You talkin about LeBron, or Brady?
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We can all hate him and understand how gr a at he is.
You talkin about LeBron, or Brady?
Both. I get the hate because they are great.
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We can all hate him and understand how gr a at he is.
You talkin about LeBron, or Brady?
:lol
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All the talks about them Cavs turning it on... just as the slumping Hawks are without D-Howard and Schroder, and they are @ Cavs... maybe LeBron should have rested. :lol
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Taking too many nights off has made it to where they won't have home court advantage against any of the top three teams from the West in the finals, but I just can't see the Cavs taking a lot of nights off in the postseason to where any team in the East beats them four out of seven.
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Despite making it to the playoffs the two prior years, nobody took them seriously in 2014/2015
While in general you're pretty right on this point, one very notable exception was Zach Lowe, who wrote a column in January of 2014 (!!!) arguing for the Warriors as championship contenders. This was still in the Mark Jackson-era. So give Lowe some props at least for having an idea of what was possible way before most other analysts did.
https://grantland.com/features/why-not-the-warriors/
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As much as I dislike Westbrook's style of play, with him now officially having that amazing triple-double stat, I think it would be a travesty for him to not win MVP. I haven't really injected myself into the MVP discussion for a lot of reasons, but I think it's now gotten to the point where Westbrook has to win it despite Harden's season and the fact that LeBron and Leanard are better all-around players.
Somewhat-related: The 3-6 playoff matchup in the west should be pretty epic.
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As much as I dislike Westbrook's style of play, with him now officially having that amazing triple-double stat, I think it would be a travesty for him to not win MVP. I haven't really injected myself into the MVP discussion for a lot of reasons, but I think it's now gotten to the point where Westbrook has to win it despite Harden's season and the fact that LeBron and Leanard are better all-around players.
Somewhat-related: The 3-6 playoff matchup in the west should be pretty epic.
I don't know about epic... it is still a damn first round match up :lol That being said, it should be a very fun but intense series. I expect JH and RW would go off in alternate games, and in the end OKC winning the series.
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I'd prefer to see OKC win that series but I just don't feel these two teams are in the same tier and can easily see the Rockets winning in 5 or 6.
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James Harden has come out saying that winning should be a top factor in the MVP race....so with that logic, Kawhi Leonard is locked in for the award lol
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While I love witnessing the Cavs suffer, but is it just me? When your team is slumping this late in the season, why would you still rest your main guys, instead of giving all of them some chances to do "tune ups" in a real game?
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Not sure it really matters.
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Not sure it really matters.
You maybe right. Plus, Cleveland probably thinks being #2 is an easier road and it's not a guarantee that the C's will get to the ECF, so they still could have Home court then.
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I don't understand the logic of the MVP debate.
Most VALUABLE Player.
To me, like I think most of us, that means a combination of the player's individual performance meshed with just how key that player is to the team's success.
In my mind, teams like Cleveland and San Antonio should be able to, give then stars on their roster, win without James and Leonard, respectively. Cleveland has Irving (who could be MVP on a different team) and Love, and is deep, while San Antonio has Aldridge and Gasol (albeit a bit past his prime) and is also deep.
That leaves Harden with Houston, and Westrbook with OKC. I think both are vital to the success of each team. Without either of them, neither of those teams are going to the playoffs. Potentially Houston could scrap a bit, and get there, but I doubt it. So by that logic, Westbrook should have an edge, just because without him, OKC would be cellar dwelling. That team has no one on it. Oladipo is good, but not as good as I thought he'd be. Kanter and Adams are solid, but nothing spectacular. Without Westbrook putting up his gaudy numbers, that team doesn't sniff the playoffs.
Edge - Westbrook.
Stats-wise, they speak for themselves. Harden plays in a system that highlights the PG. D'Antoni used it to make Chris Duhon look like a salvageable starter in this league for a time. Harden was an All Star and great player before D'Antoni, so obviously, his talent has a big part to do with his numbers as well, but they are inflated a tad (not much, but a tad).
Westbrook, on the other hand, HAS to carry the load, and has exploded. Sure, he takes and misses a lot of shots, but so did Iverson in his MVP season. Like Iverson, Westbrook has to take those shots to make the team competitive.
So to me, this is a no-brainer, even if Westbrook didn't set the triple-double record, or even if he didn't average a triple-double. The fact he did solidifies it even more. Then if you think about how OKC lost Durant, but didn't replace him with anyone near his talent level, it made Westbrook's job harder. To me, this is a no-brainer. Westbrook is the league MVP, and it shouldn't even be a question.
And I am very much a pro-Sonics guy (the Wolves, Sonics, and Knicks were my teams, in that order), so giving anyone involved in the OKC franchise credit these days is tough. But Westbrook's year is just undeniable. Arguably the greatest individual season in NBA history
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I do not think it is as simple as saying, "Take James off Cleveland and they still win a lot of games," considering half of those guys wouldn't even be on the team if James wasn't there. That is the argument I have made before: James merely being on the team is crazy high value since it makes role players want to go there and play.
I also think it is not true that Westbrook has to shoot a ton to make them competitive. In the 10 games this season with his fewest shot attempts, the Thunder are 7-3. They are 39-31 in all of the others. Translation: the Thunder are better when Westbrook shoots less and the rest of the team is more involved. But wait, there is already a guy like that...James Harden. Harden is basically a better Westbrook this season. I think the media will fall for the "OMG, a triple-double" silliness and give it to Westbrook, but history has shown that NBA MVP voters are really clueless. *cough* Steve Nash *cough*
Note: I think Westbrook, despite not being a very efficient player, has had a tremendous season. I just don't think he's the MVP.
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Good counterpoints. I guess we will see. When does voting close, and when is it announced? The latter is during the conf. finals, right?
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Good counterpoints. I guess we will see. When does voting close, and when is it announced? The latter is during the conf. finals, right?
This year they are announcing the results during an awards show, which is only happening after the season. Yes, you read that right. :lol
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This year they are announcing the results during an awards show, which is only happening after the season. Yes, you read that right. :lol
:facepalm:
In other news, the damn Timberwolves lost again, to a Westbrook-less OKC...at home. So glad the season is coming to an end. The Wolves showed so much promise after the All Star break, and then Lavine and Belicia (yes, I know I spelled it wrong) went down, and so did the Wolves' season. They need a ton of help on the defensive side of the ball. Thibs better figure it out this offseason. On a positive note, I like the new Wolves logo. I hated the angry wolf with the trees. New look:
(https://i.cdn.turner.com/drp/nba/timberwolves/sites/default/files/styles/story_main_photo/public/mtimberwolves_global.jpg)
>>>Harkens back to the original logo, and captures the essence of the alternate logo in use now. The only thing that I'm not feeling on this is the green star. I don't think it needed to be green. But otherwise, I like it.
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The green reminds me too much of the Seahawks. :tempus: But otherwise, I quite like it.
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Yeah, nice logo.
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I just want to say: lolCavs
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I love both 3/6 matchups in the first round. Honestly, I feel they could go either way. The Bucks have a legit shot if both Giannis and Middleton can get hot.
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I love both 3/6 matchups in the first round. Honestly, I feel they could go either way. The Bucks have a legit shot if both Giannis and Middleton can get hot.
the Raptors have been a bad matchup for the Bucks the last few years. Lowry and Derozan are too quick for the Bucks backcourt. I'd love to see the upset happen, but I don't see it.
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the Raptors have been a bad matchup for the Bucks the last few years. Lowry and Derozan are too quick for the Bucks backcourt. I'd love to see the upset happen, but I don't see it.
The 3/6 match ups in both conferences are quite intriguing.
As for the Bucks/Raptors series, per what I saw over the past 2-3 playoffs from the Raptors... sorry, I just don't have much faith in them this year. They won't go far this year even if they get pass the Bucks. There is no way they can beat the Cavs, even though the Cavs sort of slumped through the final few weeks of the regular season...
Slightly off topic... I miss those days when first rounds were best of 5...
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I just want to say: lolCavs
Nothing like limping into the playoffs on a 4-game losing streak, and 10-14 since the beginning of March. They look anything but the scariest team in the East.
Raptors have picked a good time to get hot, coming into the playoffs on a 12-2 run. I don't know much about the Bucs, but the feeling here in the city is pretty good. There's a good shot they can repeat their run to the conference finals.
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Count me as officially pulling for them.
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As for the Bucks/Raptors series, per what I saw over the past 2-3 playoffs from the Raptors... sorry, I just don't have much faith in them this year. They won't go far this year even if they get pass the Bucks. There is no way they can beat the Cavs, even though the Cavs sort of slumped through the final few weeks of the regular season...
I think the Cavs are in a legitimate slump. There's no way they were okay with losing the #1 seed. They just couldn't hold onto it. But the problem for the other teams in the east is that the Cavs have an easy first round that will probably allow them to regroup and get their rhythm back. So teams facing them in rounds 2 and 3 are going to see a rejuvenated "playoff version" of the Cavs, even though they aren't there yet.
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Bleacher report is saying C's Isaiah Thomas' sister was killed in a car crash this morning... bad news... :(
https://bleacherreport.com/nba (https://bleacherreport.com/nba)
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As said above, I do not have faith for the Raptors... and as expected they didn't show up in Game 1. I don't know what the score would have been if they didn't go to the FT line so many times... :hat
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All of them are pretty cool illustrations. Which one(s) is your favorite?
https://www.espn.com/sportsnation/story/_/id/19165777/asur-misoa-illustrated-interpretation-first-round-nba-playoff-matchups
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Wow, I haven't seen a team jobbed by the refs as much as the Warriors were today since, well, last year's finals. But still pulled off a win that was decisive in the end. I don't see the Blazers keeping up with the Warriors. Their back court played out of their minds today and still fell short. I think this series goes no more than 5.
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All of them are pretty cool illustrations. Which one(s) is your favorite?
https://www.espn.com/sportsnation/story/_/id/19165777/asur-misoa-illustrated-interpretation-first-round-nba-playoff-matchups
That's easy. Wizards vs. Hawks, by far.
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Wow, Boston is in major trouble. I mean, Indiana is as well. But the difference is, I don't think many were really expecting them to do anything against the Cavs. I don't think anyone was expecting Boston to be down 2 heading to Chicago.
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Wow, Boston is in major trouble. I mean, Indiana is as well. But the difference is, I don't think many were really expecting them to do anything against the Cavs. I don't think anyone was expecting Boston to be down 2 heading to Chicago.
The only reason the Boston losses are surprising is because I thought Chicago was dysfunctional. But their big three of Wade-Butler-Rondo are finally gelling at the right time. Any other year, had there not been so much drama in Chicago, I would have pegged them to be a higher seed and figured a deep playoff run. But I didn't this year because I thought they were completely out-of-whack. But they have rallied at the right time, and could cause problems moving forward.
Boston is in trouble. What happened with IT4's sister is terrible, but Thomas is playing like the all star he is. He needs help, and he has none. Ainge's long term plan may be successful, and holding onto those picks might prove fruitful in the years to come, but he really shortchanged this season. I wonder if he's going to trade IT4 as well. It seems everyone doubts the ability of a dude who is short to carry a team. They easily forget that while Iverson was listed as 6'0", he was only 5'9" himself...and he was an MVP and led a team to the finals. But I have a feeling Ainge is going to jettison Thomas. I hope not, because he's one of my favorite players, and I do believe he can lead the Celtics to a title (hopefully not at the expense of the Wolves in future years, but that's getting ahead of myself).
Indiana is done. They were done before the series started. Paul George has set himself up nicely for a huge pay day, however. We'll see if its the Lakers or he stays with the Pacers. I am betting on the Lakers.
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Wow, Boston is in major trouble. I mean, Indiana is as well. But the difference is, I don't think many were really expecting them to do anything against the Cavs. I don't think anyone was expecting Boston to be down 2 heading to Chicago.
This has been the standard the last 3 years for the C's.
They can't turn it up a notch in the playoffs while other teams can. Not enough talent in their top 7 players.
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I don't think I could majorly disagree with any of that if I tried. But the thing is, I didn't expect anyone else in the east that they would meet in the first 2 rounds to be able to do anything to challenge them.
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As a fan of the team I had hopes but seeing the last 2 1st round playoff exits had me hesitating to hop on that bus. I needed at least a series win in the the playoffs to feel better about them.
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For the last 5-6 weeks, I've had this feeling that the Celtics were punching out of their weight class. They are proving me right. I think a lot of people had a feeling this series had a good chance of being an "upset". The Bulls still have 2 more to go, but the C's ain't looking good.
Raptors had a good bounce-back game to even the series. Strong effort from the Lowry/DeRozan, and balance from the rest of the floor.
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For the last 5-6 weeks, I've had this feeling that the Celtics were punching out of their weight class. They are proving me right. I think a lot of people had a feeling this series had a good chance of being an "upset". The Bulls still have 2 more to go, but the C's ain't looking good.
Yeah, maybe. Admittedly, I haven't watched any of their games outside the games against the Warriors, so maybe my assessment of them was completely off. But just amassing enough wins to have taken the #1 seed, and a lot of that coming from momentum at the end of the season where they were pretty hot, I didn't see a #8 beating them.
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And bosk1 they play well against the Warriors but I've seen enough of the last 3 years to know they can't get to that next gear.
I'm really disappointed in Al Horford. All that money (which is the Celtics fault) and he does not produce like a top 2 player on a team. He is no star making star money.
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Take that for data!!!
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Everyone killing the Celtics should not forget what happened to IT4 sister because even if he's playing on a high level it seems pretty clear to me that the whole team took a it with that and they are more concerned with him than with the game and that has to be factored in. I will agree with King though that I don't think the Celtics have what it takes to change to a playoff gear and that Al Horford is being overpayed, he's not a max contract guy.
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the Warriors are just scary when they want to be. Who would think that on a might when they are missing both Durant and Livingston, and when Curry and Thompson combine for only 36 points and play only 31 minutes each, that they would beat Portland by 29? Between Kerr being a master at maximizing his bench and the ability to absolutely stifle a team defensively, this team is ALWAYS a threat. So much fun to watch!
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The Warriors are insanely good. I can't think of too many other teams in league history that could theoretically lose their best/second-best player (Durant) for the playoffs and still be favored to win it all.
Please note that I'm not saying Durant is going to miss the rest of the playoffs. It sounds like he's going to be back before the end of the series. Just speaking in hypotheticals.
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Indiana got cocky with that 26 pt lead, played soft defense, and ended up losing.
Are blowing big leads just commonplace now? Warriors 3-1 lead. Falcons up 28-3. I don't get it.
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Toronto....
(https://replygif.net/i/151.gif)
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Toronto....
(https://replygif.net/i/151.gif)
(https://media.giphy.com/media/l0ErGvjxgGaNS8OQw/giphy.gif)
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Well played.
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I am just glad I ain't a Raptors fan..
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Indiana got cocky with that 26 pt lead, played soft defense, and ended up losing.
Are blowing big leads just commonplace now? Warriors 3-1 lead. Falcons up 28-3. I don't get it.
Not just that, it was like they forgot how they had played their offense in the first half. They weren't moving the ball, relying just on pick and rolls, no player movement, nothing at all, it was a complete disaster.
Regarding the Bucks, I truly wasn't expecting them to be putting up this kind of competition because of their young age and because of the bad decisions Kid usually makes during games however it's been fun to watch. I also think this is happening because Toronto is playing pretty badly, they don't look like a team that wants to compete
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I'm not entirely surprised, but it's still confusing to me how the Raptors manage to continually suck in the playoffs. They lost in the first round of 2014 and 2015 despite being the higher seed, and barely squeaked by last year. Now, it's looking like an early exit again. I hope they can turn things around. :facepalm:
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LeBron F'ing James. :hefdaddy :hefdaddy
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I'm not entirely surprised, but it's still confusing to me how the Raptors manage to continually suck in the playoffs. They lost in the first round of 2014 and 2015 despite being the higher seed, and barely squeaked by last year. Now, it's looking like an early exit again. I hope they can turn things around. :facepalm:
I do not hate the Raptors, but I highly doubt they could turn it around. Like you have mentioned, they ain't newbies to the playoffs, and they even got as far as the ECF last year; yet I just don't see a sense of urgency in their plays through the first 3 games. Except for Ibaka playing with some passion and energy, the rest of the team just don't seem to play with the same level of energy for the most part.
On the other hand, though I don't see enough of the Bucks during the season, they clearly play with a ton more energy in these first few games. Like in game 2, where they eventually lost, they just never gave up when they were down by 13 or something in the 3rd qtr.
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Both DeRozan and Lowry can be hot/cold players. And when they're both cold, the team has virtually no chance. Last night was an example of that, and as demonstrated by Game 2, they typically bounce back in a strong way when they go ice cold. I expect a better performance, and W for Game 4.
But yeah... as a "top" seed/team in the East, they should be able to bring it every single night.
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LeBron F'ing James. :hefdaddy :hefdaddy
Everything the C's are missing. Leaders step up.
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As predicted.
Best of 3 now after that defensive battle.
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Kawhi Leonard!!! :omg: That last fade away was Kobe-que!!! :omg:
And then there is Mike Conley!!! Wow!!! What a game!!! :omg:
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Yes. Watching!!
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Despite the loss, Kawhi Leonard's performance tonight was legendary! He is no doubt my new fav player in the league! Like I've said toward the end of the season, he IS a serious MVP candidate! Triple-doubles are cute, but the difference is Leonard carries the Spurs and they are winning games!
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I knew the Grizzlies were going to show some grit in this series. They have all season, despite being a 7th seed. However, I think we can take this series at home, especially IF LA starts playing some ball on both ends of the court. I've been dissapointed with his inconsistent play all season. He's the X factor on how far we can go into the playoffs. If we ever play the Warriors, we need him to crash the boards. Kawhi was masterful tonight, but he cant do it all on his own.
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And how about the Dubs? They looked dead in the water early on, but they came alive in the second half! Wow! :omg:
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Westbrook 42 for 118 from the field through four playoff games. That's 36%, for those scoring at home.
Yeah, that's an MVP.
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Watching the Celtics/Bulls game. OMFG, the officiating is fucking horrible. WTF is this? It's a joke.
There is nothing worse than NBA officiating in any other sport.
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Westbrook 42 for 118 from the field through four playoff games. That's 36%, for those scoring at home.
Yeah, that's an MVP.
You get no argument from me, as I keep saying the MVP should goes to Kawhi Leonard! :hat
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There is nothing worse than NBA officiating in any other sport.
Yep. It is not close. I get that basketball is difficult to officiate, but the preferential treatment stars always get when it comes to calls is so ridiculous.
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There is nothing worse than NBA officiating in any other sport.
You clearly don't watch a lot of soccer :P
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Can I go on a bit of a rant? Feel free to skip if you don't like soap boxes...
I get that triple-doubles are impressive feats. The ability to impact the game in three of the major facets is huge. I do not subscribe to the idea that triple-doubles are meaningless. However, with that said, I am tired of the media acting like a triple-double is the most significant accomplishment a player can achieve. Every time a player gets one, it's headline news. Even if a player doesn't get one but comes close, it is still mentioned. It's like these guys feel obligated to always be on "triple-double watch" because if they're not, they're not doing their job. At this point, I think that triple-doubles are even more common than 40-point games, so I don't get the fascination. I think I'm just annoyed because there are actual important stats that you almost never hear about, such as true shooting percentage and turnover percentage, probably because that kind of thing is getting too analytical and ESPN would prefer to keep their analysis as bare bones as possible.
OK, I'm done. Sorry. :lol
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And how about the Dubs? They looked dead in the water early on, but they came alive in the second half! Wow! :omg:
I am curious to see how things are going to shape up with Kerr being out. Right now, whether he will even return at all during this post-season is completely up in the air. It's easy to forget that he was out for most of last season's record-setting 73 win regular season. But I think that team would have been more easily able to do what they did without Kerr than this season's team. That team was mostly the same team that had won the championship the prior year. I kind of feel that they could have done it on autopilot with or without Kerr in the post season. But Walton was a pretty good coach in his own right and had been pretty ingrained in Kerr's system.
This year, the team chemistry is different with so many new faces. And while I feel like they have really gelled as a team, I'm not sure I'm as comfortable that they can just instinctively do what they do with or without key coaching decisions as well as last year's team might have been able. But maybe I'm just overthinking it. And Mike Brown certainly has more than enough coaching cred, so, again, maybe it isn't even an issue to spend much time thinking about. But this team just keeps finding itself in situations that keep things interesting.
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Can I go on a bit of a rant? Feel free to skip if you don't like soap boxes...
I get that triple-doubles are impressive feats. The ability to impact the game in three of the major facets is huge. I do not subscribe to the idea that triple-doubles are meaningless. However, with that said, I am tired of the media acting like a triple-double is the most significant accomplishment a player can achieve. Every time a player gets one, it's headline news. Even if a player doesn't get one but comes close, it is still mentioned. It's like these guys feel obligated to always be on "triple-double watch" because if they're not, they're not doing their job. At this point, I think that triple-doubles are even more common than 40-point games, so I don't get the fascination. I think I'm just annoyed because there are actual important stats that you almost never hear about, such as true shooting percentage and turnover percentage, probably because that kind of thing is getting too analytical and ESPN would prefer to keep their analysis as bare bones as possible.
Could not agree more. :tup :tup
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I am curious to see how things are going to shape up with Kerr being out. Right now, whether he will even return at all during this post-season is completely up in the air. It's easy to forget that he was out for most of last season's record-setting 73 win regular season. But I think that team would have been more easily able to do what they did without Kerr than this season's team. That team was mostly the same team that had won the championship the prior year. I kind of feel that they could have done it on autopilot with or without Kerr in the post season. But Walton was a pretty good coach in his own right and had been pretty ingrained in Kerr's system.
This year, the team chemistry is different with so many new faces. And while I feel like they have really gelled as a team, I'm not sure I'm as comfortable that they can just instinctively do what they do with or without key coaching decisions as well as last year's team might have been able. But maybe I'm just overthinking it. And Mike Brown certainly has more than enough coaching cred, so, again, maybe it isn't even an issue to spend much time thinking about. But this team just keeps finding itself in situations that keep things interesting.
The ability to make precise in-game adjustment is what I think Kerr will be missed most. Like you mentioned, Mike Brown is a good enough coach, but as a Lakers fan, while I think he is good at preparation for each match up; yet his real-time in-game adjustments are iffy sometimes. Then again, with KD back for Game 4, I think the Dubs will have to "feel" each other on the floor in the 1st qtr all over again. I bet the Blazers are not going to lay down and go away, so I fully expect a very tight game! For the Dubs' sake, they'd better close it out in 4 and get some rest and practice before the next round.
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I bet the Blazers are not going to lay down and go away, so I fully expect a very tight game!
Um... :lol
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Um... :lol
Ouch! :lol
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And the Clippers/Jazz, both of whom were dominated by the Warriors in the regular season, are going to have to go at least through Friday, if not Sunday before their series is over. Hate to say it, but I think the Warriors are going to cruise to the West finals.
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I'm worried about the Spurs lately, they're a machine during the regular season but when post-season time comes some players just disappear (I'm looking at you Aldridge). I think they would do a great favor to themselves if they traded him for good assets and got Paul Millsap as a free agent during the offseason but knowing how the Spurs work this is likely not going to happen.
And the Clippers/Jazz, both of whom were dominated by the Warriors in the regular season, are going to have to go at least through Friday, if not Sunday before their series is over. Hate to say it, but I think the Warriors are going to cruise to the West finals.
No doubt.
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If I were CP3, I'd be telling the Spurs to open up as much cap room as humanly possible... wouldn't that be a monster team with Chris Paul at the 1?
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Only thing that sucks about the Warriors sweeping the Blazers is that there will be no news for the better part of a week.
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But the good news will be there will be no Bosk posts about the Warriors for the better part of a week.
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Well, since you seem to have made a habit of constantly coming at me for no good reason lately, I'll make sure to continue to post if it irritates you that much.
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That sentence started like someone was getting banned, that was disappointing.
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If I were CP3, I'd be telling the Spurs to open up as much cap room as humanly possible... wouldn't that be a monster team with Chris Paul at the 1?
I'm not sure his Napoleonic thing would go over so well there. It'd make them much more entertaining to watch though.
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Can't decide whether I want to root for the Clippers or Jazz to make it through to the Warriors. I never get tired of seeing the Warriors dominate the Clippers or how helpless and frustrated the Clippers look in the process. But they are also the more physical team, and Curry tends to get the brunt of it when playing them. So with likely getting San Antonio after that, I'd rather have them not get as physically punished as they will in a best of 7 series against the Clippers.
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I think Utah is a more physical team than the Clippers right now, plus with the injuries the Clips have withstood lately I'm sure they'll tone it down a little bit
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Well, since you seem to have made a habit of constantly coming at me for no good reason lately, I'll make sure to continue to post if it irritates you that much.
What? Not true.
I should've put a ;D at the end of that post. I was joking.
I love you.
(not joking) ;D ;D
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:heart:
Okay, so here is the Warriors' regular season record against the WC playoff teams:
San Antonio: 1-2
Houston: 3-1
Utah: 2-1
LAC: 4-0
OKC: 4-0
Memphis: 2-2
Portland: 4-0
Interesting to see how they stacked up against the other playoff teams they may face. The one that obviously leaps out is San Antonio. Game 1 was the season opener. San Antonio beat the Warriors pretty soundly. But it's hard to put too much stock in a game that early. Game 2, San Antonio won, but both teams were resting starters, so that doesn't say much to me. Game 3 was on March 29th with the #1 seed at stake and the Warriors holding it by a pretty slim margin. Both teams were at or near full strength, and appeared to be playing hard for the win. Warriors win by 12, but they were behind until a couple of minutes into the third, and it was definitely a hard-fought win despite the final score. I think that game is the most telling for obvious reasons. But I also think that game might end up being a microcosm of their series if they meet in the Western Conference Finals in terms of it being a close, hard fought series early on, but the Warriors overwhelming them and bringing it home in the end in 5 or 6 games. I guess we'll see.
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If I were CP3, I'd be telling the Spurs to open up as much cap room as humanly possible... wouldn't that be a monster team with Chris Paul at the 1?
...and if you were CP3 and actually do what you said you would, you will be fined heavily, lol! :lol
All jokes aside, you are right, with TP's age the Spurs are deseparate for a starting 1 who is better than Patty Mills. Or, I actually do not mind if the Spurs send multiple first rounders to the Lakers for D-Russell.
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RW could join Dirk to become the second MVP winner not seeing the second round at all. Lol :lol
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I wouldn't be surprised to see them just give it to Harden now based on how this series went while denying that the postseason had anything to do with their reasoning.
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I'm worried about the Spurs lately, they're a machine during the regular season but when post-season time comes some players just disappear (I'm looking at you Aldridge). I think they would do a great favor to themselves if they traded him for good assets and got Paul Millsap as a free agent during the offseason but knowing how the Spurs work this is likely not going to happen.
We need another PG to take over an aging Tony Parker. Patty Mills is great and might be our best 3 point shooter, but i think the energy he brings off the bench is more beneficial than him starting. He boosts the flow of the game coming off the bench the same way Ginobli did most his career. We also need big bodies. If there's anything that this Grizzlies series has shown me, we lack strength in our big guys. Dedmon is athletic and is still developing, but he can't compete against Zebo on defense. Aldridge doesn't take the ball to the rim when he posts, he does a little fade away that has become his signature. We need somebody that can bang bodies along the likes of Zebo and Draymon Green.
Boris Diaw was that guy for us until we traded him. I really wish we didn't.
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I'm worried about the Spurs lately, they're a machine during the regular season but when post-season time comes some players just disappear (I'm looking at you Aldridge). I think they would do a great favor to themselves if they traded him for good assets and got Paul Millsap as a free agent during the offseason but knowing how the Spurs work this is likely not going to happen.
We need another PG to take over an aging Tony Parker. Patty Mills is great and might be our best 3 point shooter, but i think the energy he brings off the bench is more beneficial than him starting. He boosts the flow of the game coming off the bench the same way Ginobli did most his career. We also need big bodies. If there's anything that this Grizzlies series has shown me, we lack strength in our big guys. Dedmon is athletic and is still developing, but he can't compete against Zebo on defense. Aldridge doesn't take the ball to the rim when he posts, he does a little fade away that has become his signature. We need somebody that can bang bodies along the likes of Zebo and Draymon Green.
Boris Diaw was that guy for us until we traded him. I really wish we didn't.
Well, Memphis is kind of a 1 and only thing in the current NBA. Teams today are going away from the bigs so I don't think San Antonio is missing big bodies. As you said, TP has been down this season but he seems to have turned it on during the playoffs so maybe it was just a slump and he'll come back producing next season.
Or, I actually do not mind if the Spurs send multiple first rounders to the Lakers for D-Russell.
You do know that a Spurs 1st round pick sucks unless you are the Spurs right? It's a 28/29 pick and no team does the kind of scouting they do so you'll probably end up with fringe players.
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You do know that a Spurs 1st round pick sucks unless you are the Spurs right? It's a 28/29 pick and no team does the kind of scouting they do so you'll probably end up with fringe players.
That is very true... maybe I just want to see D-Russell gone so bad. :biggrin:
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I admit I was wrong! I thought it would have been the Bucks, not the Raptors, to earn the rights to get swept by the LeBrons in the second round. :lol
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Raptors almost gave me a heart attack last night. Way to almost blow a 25 point lead! :lol
Also, I love how ESPN is now writing headlines about how Giannis's two pointer at the end of the game "cost" the Bucks a win. Never mind the fact that he was basically the only reason they even had a shot. Why do we do this to every good up-and-coming player? >:(
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ESPN is that perpetually drunk frat guy that gets hammered before anyone else every time and then is a know-it-all about everything because his insecurities have led him to try in vain to validate himself through contrarianism.
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I thought Tony Parker was done but is he proving me wrong or what? Fantastic game from him last night.
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Raptors almost gave me a heart attack last night. Way to almost blow a 25 point lead! :lol
Also, I love how ESPN is now writing headlines about how Giannis's two pointer at the end of the game "cost" the Bucks a win. Never mind the fact that he was basically the only reason they even had a shot. Why do we do this to every good up-and-coming player? >:(
Hell of a comeback for the Bucks but they were gassed at the end. Giannis played 47 minutes and Middleton was sick all week. Bucks need to get some shooters to space the floor for Giannis. The future is bright in Milwaukee though.
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So, anyone feeling that any of the three remaining series will NOT be decided in tonight's game 6's?
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Raptors almost gave me a heart attack last night. Way to almost blow a 25 point lead! :lol
Also, I love how ESPN is now writing headlines about how Giannis's two pointer at the end of the game "cost" the Bucks a win. Never mind the fact that he was basically the only reason they even had a shot. Why do we do this to every good up-and-coming player? >:(
Hell of a comeback for the Bucks but they were gassed at the end. Giannis played 47 minutes and Middleton was sick all week. Bucks need to get some shooters to space the floor for Giannis. The future is bright in Milwaukee though.
Indeed. Agreed on all of that - and the Raptors should never have even allowed it to be close.
Although, the Bucks made it closer than they should've been allowed to - that inbounds with about 4 mins to go when it was 78-74, and 2.5 on the shot clock - Antetokounmpo did not get the shot off (I paused the replay, and it was still in his hands when the shot-clock went off), and I swear he didn't hit the rim either - to which the followed up with a trey to make it a one-point game. Then the non-call foul on DeRoazan when it was 89-84 allowed them to bring it back to a 2-point game with 16 seconds.
Not sure they'll get swept by the Cavs, but it doesn't look promising.
So, anyone feeling that any of the three remaining series will NOT be decided in tonight's game 6's?
I'm sure Boston can find a way to make it interesting.
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I think the Hawks rally back at home; we've been right there even in the games we've lost. While Washington is, I think, the better team, it's not as big a difference as perhaps people thought. Hawks could even still take the series.
Bulls are done...
Clips are done, I think...
I'm very interested to see what kind of fight the Jazz can put up against GS in the next round.
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I'm very interested to see what kind of fight the Jazz can put up against GS in the next round.
You know, I kinda felt like they matched up decently against the Warriors in the regular season. But then I see them in the playoffs barely beating a depleted Clippers team while I see the Warriors firing on all cylinders, and I'm not expecting much from them.
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Got to see the Jazz close out the Clippers. Super pumped for them. Will be rooting for them next round...but alas they will be destroyed.
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I don't know if they'll get destroyed, or swept.I see a lot of grit and grind in that team. Should be funnto see Joe Johnson and Draymond Green get at each other. Jazz will get at least 1 game
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I don't know if they'll get destroyed, or swept.I see a lot of grit and grind in that team. Should be funnto see Joe Johnson and Draymond Green get at each other. Jazz will get at least 1 game
Instead of JJ and Green, I actually see Diaw and Green getting at each other. In fact, while Green maybe slightly stronger, their games are somewhat similar. It is one match up I look forward in seeing. The Warriors haven't played anyone with a good passing big like Diaw, it will be interesting to see how Green play him.
Oh, and the Clippers will always be the Clippers. :lol
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I'm very interested to see what kind of fight the Jazz can put up against GS in the next round.
You know, I kinda felt like they matched up decently against the Warriors in the regular season. But then I see them in the playoffs barely beating a depleted Clippers team while I see the Warriors firing on all cylinders, and I'm not expecting much from them.
Gobert was also basically out for 2.5 games, and Heyward missed one with food poisoning, so the Jazz were not at full strength for much of the series too. Now they'll still probably be lucky to even go past 5 games against GS, but they're still way more interesting than the Clips would have been.
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Oh, okay. I hadn't been following the series closely enough to have known that. Well, we'll see shortly. I think a few games will be tight, but the only thing that keeps me from calling "sweep" is that ANY team can steal a game under the right conditions, and Utah definitely has some grit to them.
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Oh, okay. I hadn't been following the series closely enough to have known that. Well, we'll see shortly. I think a few games will be tight, but the only thing that keeps me from calling "sweep" is that ANY team can steal a game under the right conditions, and Utah definitely has some grit to them.
While this is true, I think the small GSW lineup will be nearly impossible for Utah to match. Derrick Favors has been playing great but with Draymond Green staying in the perimeter he will surely suffer.
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Well Raps... better come out stronger than throwing up 35% brick-shooting. That could've been a far more interesting game if not for the turd of a first quarter, and then letting the Cavs go on a 10-0 run at the end of the half after pulling within 2 points.
It's like the Cavs are toying with them.
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It's like the Cavs are toying with them.
They are. I don't think Toronto has a chance of getting even 1 game. Sorry Jboy, I hope there is a baseball team you like cause your NBA season will end :soon:
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It's like the Cavs are toying with them.
They are. I don't think Toronto has a chance of getting even 1 game. Sorry Jboy, I hope there is a baseball team you like cause your NBA season will end :soon:
Don't even start with the Jays... terrible start (2-11), lots of injuries, and they are the worst team in MLB right now.
Hockey playoffs still going - like a good Canadian, I don't even need my local team to be in there to focus there.
As for the Raps... Cleveland had a great gameplan - double-team DeRozan at every chance; minimize Lowry; leave everyone else alone. Worked wonderfully - Patterson and Powell couldn't hit the broadside of a barn with the brick's they were launching.
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The Wizards came well prepared for Game 2, and they looked quite good all the way til the middle of the 3rd qtr... then, Isaiah Thomas single-handedly carried (no pun intended) the Cs and won Game 2... wow! :tup
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Isaiah is a man on a mission. I sincerely think there's no stopping the Cavs, but I will leave a door open for Boston because of this guy
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I think the Cavs will be a tall order. I don't see the Celtics getting by them.
And yes, posting like a homer, but Isaiah has been amazing. Apparently it was his sister's birthday yesterday.
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I think the Cavs will be a tall order. I don't see the Celtics getting by them.
Yeah, they will be. But they are a far cry from perfect. Lots of weaknesses that can be exploited.
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I just think they're too strong. Especially if Lebron is engaged. Only team with a shot is GS.
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I guess we'll see. I don't see anyone stopping GS this time though, so even if the Cavs make the finals, I don't see this year ending well for them.
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On another note, I don't follow the Clippers when GS isn't handing them a beat down. But I did see parts of some games against the Jazz. Kinda confirmed what I already felt, which is that they are mostly a band of dirty players that don't know how to come together as a team. Kind of the one possible exception that stands out to me is DeAndre Jordan. When I see him on the court, I don't really see him doing the same types of dirty things you see Paul or Griffin, for example, doing. Yeah, he is physical, and he plays hard and will make it hard on opposing players coming into his area, but I don't see him taking cheap shots. He seems like he just puts his head down and works hard out there. I think I kinda like him as a player from what I've seen. Anyone pay much attention to him that can comment?
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Sounds like Draymond Green would be a perfect fit on that team.
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Your irrational hate, much like your point, makes no sense.
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This guy is killing it in the playoffs right now.
(https://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/kingshmegland/IMG_20170503_100725_zpsovlrstom.jpg) (https://s583.photobucket.com/user/kingshmegland/media/IMG_20170503_100725_zpsovlrstom.jpg.html)
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:lol
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This guy is killing it in the playoffs right now.
(https://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/kingshmegland/IMG_20170503_100725_zpsovlrstom.jpg) (https://s583.photobucket.com/user/kingshmegland/media/IMG_20170503_100725_zpsovlrstom.jpg.html)
I saw that last night.
He has really been incredible.
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Isaiah is a man on a mission. I sincerely think there's no stopping the Cavs, but I will leave a door open for Boston because of this guy
Holy fuck did he look god-tier in the 4th and OT.
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Updated predictions:
Boston over Washington in 5 or 6: The Wizards play tough and have it in them to win some games, but with the Celtics now having a 2-0 lead, I don't see them winning 3 our of the next 4 and pushing it going to 7.
Cleveland over Toronto in probably 5, maybe 6: I'm not giving up on the Raptors, and I think the manner in which they lost game 1 was a bit of an aberration. And the Cavs have holes. But I just don't think Toronto has enough in them to exploit those holes enough to win more than 1 or 2 games.
Warriors over Utah in 4, maybe 5: Utah may likely take a game at home. But I do not see them having enough to beat this team. If they have a really good night where they shut down Curry and Thompson is cold, they still have KD, Green, and the bench to contend with.
Rockets over San Antonio in 6, maybe 7: A couple of weeks ago, I would not have picked Houston. But they have looked REALLY good in the playoffs, and San Antonio has looked flat overall for the last month or so. Not sure what is going on with them. But they will not go down without a fight, for sure. And out of all the remaining series, this is the one where it would surprise me the least if my pick ended up being wrong. But then again, this is the only series where I am picking the underdog, so take that for what it's worth. :lol
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Boston over Washington in 5 or 6: The Wizards play tough and have it in them to win some games, but with the Celtics now having a 2-0 lead, I don't see them winning 3 our of the next 4 and pushing it going to 7.
I have Boston in 6. The Wizards starting 5 is hard to match but their bench is probably the worst in these playoff. Other than Bogdanovic they don't have anyone that can have any impact.
Cleveland over Toronto in probably 5, maybe 6: I'm not giving up on the Raptors, and I think the manner in which they lost game 1 was a bit of an aberration. And the Cavs have holes. But I just don't think Toronto has enough in them to exploit those holes enough to win more than 1 or 2 games.
Cleveland in 4. That aberration you're talking about is exactly the same that they showed against the Bucks. Somehow this team added a couple of good players (Ibaka, Tucker) yet they have regressed from last season.
Warriors over Utah in 4, maybe 5: Utah may likely take a game at home. But I do not see them having enough to beat this team. If they have a really good night where they shut down Curry and Thompson is cold, they still have KD, Green, and the bench to contend with.
I'm with you on this one, there's no chance for Utah at all.
Rockets over San Antonio in 6, maybe 7: A couple of weeks ago, I would not have picked Houston. But they have looked REALLY good in the playoffs, and San Antonio has looked flat overall for the last month or so. Not sure what is going on with them. But they will not go down without a fight, for sure. And out of all the remaining series, this is the one where it would surprise me the least if my pick ended up being wrong. But then again, this is the only series where I am picking the underdog, so take that for what it's worth
This one is hard. I have the Spurs on 6 but after that first game it's hard to see that happening. I think the Spurs have come to a point where they need to rebuild their team more than they are willing to if they want to keep winning. Kawhi is an MVP caliber player and LMA can be great and I have to say he's been a better defensive player that I've given him credit for, but they need to figure out the rest of the team. Parker has been very eclectic, danny green is not shooting as well as he used to and the bench is not as deep as it was in previous years. Plus the NBA has turned way too physical lately and players like Gasol & Ginobili while great during the season can't contribute much during the playoffs.
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Your irrational hate, much like your point, makes no sense.
There's no way in the universe to unhypocritically call CP3/Griffin dirty while looking the other way on Green.
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Re: Raptors, I agree with Bosk on the number of games the series will go. Remember, they lost BAD in the Q last year for games 1&2, but then came back strong at home. I don't think the Cavs will sweep, but I sure as shit don't see the Raptors winning this one.
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Great rebound from the Spurs. We were much more focused tonight.
I hope Tony Parkers knee injury isn't serious. If we get past Houston, we're gonna need him. I don't think he's coming back the rest of this series though
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Tony Parker is out for the rest of the postseason with a torn quadricep tendon. He has been the second best player on the squad since the playoffs started.
I'm not sweating too much, since Patty Mills is a worthy replacement in the PG position. BUT....BUT...it's time for LA to show up and show the NBA why he got paid what he got paid coming to our team. I don't ever want to hear him complain ever again that he wasn't selected to be an All-Star when he's playing shitty.
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Tony Parker is out for the rest of the postseason with a torn quadricep tendon. He has been the second best player on the squad since the playoffs started.
Man, sorry to hear that. And the tendon...ouch! Sucks to have something like that happen, especially when your team is a contender at the end like this.
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Bosk, isn't that supposed to be posted in green? ;D
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I'm not sweating too much, since Patty Mills is a worthy replacement in the PG position. BUT....BUT...it's time for LA to show up and show the NBA why he got paid what he got paid coming to our team. I don't ever want to hear him complain ever again that he wasn't selected to be an All-Star when he's playing shitty.
Aldridge is underperforming, but...
1) I'm not sure he's completely healthy, and more importantly...
2) The Spurs have bigger problems, in that completely ineffective has-beens like Pau and Ginobili still get big minutes because their roster is so shallow. Kawhi is the second best player in the league but he cannot do it himself. Mills and Green are serviceable role players, and Lee shows up once in awhile, but beyond those guys they've got nothing. Especially with Parker injured and Aldridge not being more of a threat.
Throw in the fact that the Rockets are a matchup problem for them, and I don't know that they can even make it to Golden State, let alone put up a fight. And trust me, I'd really like to see them do it.
-J
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I am trying to keep an open mind on Lonzo Ball for now. But, he'd better average a double-doubles AND winning games in his rookie season. Or else his dad would make him look even more foolish than he deserved.
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I am trying to keep an open mind on Lonzo Ball for now. But, he'd better average a double-doubles AND winning games in his rookie season. Or else his dad would make him look even more foolish than he deserved.
Yeah, Lavar Ball could very easily mess his career, let's hope Lonzo and the other boys can somehow avoid any damage.
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I have known many people with crazy parents, and I never envied them for it. Telling your parents to back down is a particularly difficult conversion.
Unfortunately for Lonzo, I think he's going to have to have that conversation and take control of his own affairs sooner rather than later. LaVar is beginning to do some serious damage to Lonzo's reputation and earning power.
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Welp. Lowry injury certainly didn't help.
Cavs are rolling. Hard to see either the Celtics or Wizards slowing them down.
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If this is truly the end of the Derozan/Lowry era, then I will be sad to see it go. As frustrating a group as they've been, they made it to the "Final Four" last year and the "Elite Eight" this year. I don't think there's any shame in that, and it's also the best the franchise has ever been. I'm curious to see what happens now.
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So Lowry is opting out. Where is he going?
Cavs are rolling. Hard to see either the Celtics or Wizards slowing them down.
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It's hard to say. The truth is his best option is to stay with the Raptors and hope Majiri can get some better role players. There aren't any contenders that can afford the kind of money he will be asking for except maybe the Celtics who don't need another point guard. I think he will either stay or maybe go to the Pelis if they're unable to keep Holiday. I can also see a scenario where he joins the Lakers if they're able to get Paul George but that is a long shot and would be too much of a risk.
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If the Rockets manage to win this game it'll be far and away the worst I've ever seen a team play and still beat the Spurs in a playoff game or at least since the 90s.
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That game was there for the taking, but they shit the bed in the last minute of OT. Like it matters anyway, as the winner of that series is getting obliterated by Golden St.
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It was so much more than just one game. They win that and they get an elimination game at home with a second chance in SA if not. Now they're done cuz there's no way in hell they're getting two in a row with coaching that terrible. Seriously, how the fuck do you waste at least 20 (maybe 30+) possessions by making it completely clear you're terrified of even the thought of moving the ball inside the arc? Mike D'Antoni was the Spurs' MVP tonight. This is also probably his last stop. I can't see even the most desperate of teams trusting him to make them a contender after 2 stints of underachievement with viable teams.
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You guys hear Green at a press conference say Olynyk is a dirty player? Doesn't he have better things to do than worry about another conference? Too funny. Oh, BTW.
(https://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/kingshmegland/IMG_20170510_143312_zpsk8vpw0mj.jpg) (https://s583.photobucket.com/user/kingshmegland/media/IMG_20170510_143312_zpsk8vpw0mj.jpg.html)
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Draymond Green is a fucking clown. We were watching some of the Warriors game the other night (G3 maybe) and it was ridiculous how he was acting.
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I honestly think Green was trolling everyone. I mean, he can't be that dense as to not know what his reputation is.
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I think he's just plain nuts.
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Green thinks he is Rodman with a jumper...
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Green's a piece of shit and I'd be glad to see him suffer a career-ending injury.
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Green's a piece of shit and I'd be glad to see him suffer a career-ending injury.
(https://s2.quickmeme.com/img/59/59ae035732c9f8a13cfb70d5cdfde659c99f2009c912d719e4242393c6146cb2.jpg)
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Green's a piece of shit and I'd be glad to see him suffer a career-ending injury.
That's just silly. I realize people way outside this market who typically only see Eastern Conference games and see the Warriors maybe a handful of times a year may not have a clue what he is about and may therefore have misperceptions about him, but that's just silly. He's one of the nicest players in the league and hasn't done anything to warrant that kind of response.
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Green thinks he is Rodman with a jumper...
Green is better than Rodman ever was. Rodman was a beast of a rebounder and a great defender, but not much of a scorer. Green can score. Green is more like a modern day Bill Laimbeer. A big mar who can actually hit a 3, and, despite being a dirty player, someone who is willing to sacrifice individual stats for the greater good of the team.
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Green thinks he is Rodman with a jumper...
Green is better than Rodman ever was. Rodman was a beast of a rebounder and a great defender, but not much of a scorer. Green can score. Green is more like a modern day Bill Laimbeer. A big mar who can actually hit a 3, and, despite being a dirty player, someone who is willing to sacrifice individual stats for the greater good of the team.
"Dirty" is a tricky label for me to apply to him. I mean, he plays physical, pushes the boundaries on how far you can go, and sometimes intentionally crosses the line if he thinks he needs to for the good of the team. I guess I can't really say that isn't "dirty." But he is also a good-natured dude, and one who expects to play hard and trash talk on the court, and be able to hug or high-five the same guys and go out for a beer after the game (with a few exceptions). I contrast that to a guy who is just mean-spirited, regularly breaks the rules and if he hurts a guy doing it, or regularly breaks the rules because he thinks he is above them and throws a fit if he gets called on it (CP3, for example). I guess, to me, there are degrees of dirty. And, sure, it's easy to excuse things when it's a guy on your team. I'm self-aware enough to know that I am more willing to give a pass because of that. But it's also the things I said above. I am more willing to give a guy a pass who is open about what he does, is good-natured about it with those other players, and is generally a likeable guy, as Green is.
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That's why bosk1, he shouldn't respond about another player when he does push boundaries. He can't help himself.
What I thought was weird was he was talking about a different conference during the playoffs.
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I watched about 15-20 regular season Warrior games last season, every one of their playoff games last year and maybe 10 this year plus all playoff games except the most recent one. That's about 60 games but I'll just wait to hear why I "don't get him and what he means to this team."
He kicks people in the dick, holds on to petty anger like a child, and gets needlessly incredulous with refs in situations where any idiot would know going in that it puts the team at risk if he gets a technical.
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I have been saying it for a while that, how D'Antoni got yet another head coaching gig after he completely f'ed it up in NY and then LA is beyond me... Fast forward to tonight's game... my hats off to Pop, by the way... How could you be down 19 at the half playing at home? And the Spurs are without their TWO key guys? The Rockets deserve to be gone fishing.
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NY and LA are bad examples. Both franchises are in dismay.
No coach can thrive in those situations.
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NY and LA are bad examples. Both franchises are in dismay.
No coach can thrive in those situations.
Fair enough... but how about this? D'Antoni is so stubborn. Popovich has a good system in San Antonio, but even he knows when to change things up a bit to fit the talent that he has on his team. D'Antoni believes that his style is so perfect that he doesn't need to change anything - he acts like he has a fist full of championship rings! The guy left the Suns because he wouldn't implement defense. Then Kerr basically took his style, added defense to it and won a championship with the Dubs! People are taking D'Antoni's style and winning with it, and D'Antoni is still using the same game plan from 2006.
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That I agree. He works for certain veteran teams.
How many coaches are Pops or Belichick? That's why they are the where they are.
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James Harden might never live down tonight's pathetic performance.
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Green's a piece of shit and I'd be glad to see him suffer a career-ending injury.
That's just silly. I realize people way outside this market who typically only see Eastern Conference games and see the Warriors maybe a handful of times a year may not have a clue what he is about and may therefore have misperceptions about him, but that's just silly. He's one of the nicest players in the league and hasn't done anything to warrant that kind of response.
Was this thread supposed to be in green?
He kicks people in the dick, holds on to petty anger like a child, and gets needlessly incredulous with refs in situations where any idiot would know going in that it puts the team at risk if he gets a technical.
And he shall hence forth be known as basketball-Trump.
James Harden might never live down tonight's pathetic performance.
He can join Ovi in that regard.
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James Harden might never live down tonight's pathetic performance.
He can join Ovi in that regard.
It's far worse in basketball. Hockey is much more of a team sport. One man cannot take over a hockey game like one can a basketball game. Having a bad game is one thing, but playing so passive, like you would have rather been somewhere else, looks really bad for a guy who is now considered a superstar despite not really having any definitive playoff moments to date.
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He kicks people in the dick, holds on to petty anger like a child, and gets needlessly incredulous with refs in situations where any idiot would know going in that it puts the team at risk if he gets a technical.
That is such an exaggerated and dishonest account of events that I really can't even take you seriously. You may have seen a few games, but I don't think you understand the game at all, unless you are simply trolling. Either way, if your understanding of the game is at such a rudimentary and childish level, I can't be bothered to further respond.
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Bosk1, we are finally getting the WCF that we've been waiting for. My Spurs. Your Warriors. The Klaw vs The Chef. Hope it's a great series :tup The game deserves this match up
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He kicks people in the dick, holds on to petty anger like a child, and gets needlessly incredulous with refs in situations where any idiot would know going in that it puts the team at risk if he gets a technical.
That is such an exaggerated and dishonest account of events that I really can't even take you seriously. You may have seen a few games, but I don't think you understand the game at all, unless you are simply trolling. Either way, if your understanding of the game is at such a rudimentary and childish level, I can't be bothered to further respond.
If you wanna be a homer and have your guy's back, fine, but try to at least stay in the solar system of reality. You're literally referring to me having seen a third of all of their regular season and playoff games over a two year period combined as "a few games" and making comments toward me that you'd probably dish out warnings for if someone else said that stuff to you.
Also, I've watched the NBA for 29 years so this is now probably your cue to say something along the lines of "Well ya certainly haven't learned anything during that time" even though you probably are a johnny come lately that had zero interest in the NBA in the down time between Run TMC and the Curry/Thompson era considering how you virtually never posted in these threads until your boys were front page material.
But by all means, please continue to pull rank and make immature insults.
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He kicks people in the dick, holds on to petty anger like a child, and gets needlessly incredulous with refs in situations where any idiot would know going in that it puts the team at risk if he gets a technical.
That is such an exaggerated and dishonest account of events that I really can't even take you seriously. You may have seen a few games, but I don't think you understand the game at all, unless you are simply trolling. Either way, if your understanding of the game is at such a rudimentary and childish level, I can't be bothered to further respond.
If you wanna be a homer and have your guy's back, fine, but try to at least stay in the solar system of reality. You're literally referring to me having seen a third of all of their regular season and playoff games over a two year period combined as "a few games" and making comments toward me that you'd probably dish out warnings for if someone else said that stuff to you.
Also, I've watched the NBA for 29 years so this is now probably your cue to say something along the lines of "Well ya certainly haven't learned anything during that time" even though you probably are a johnny come lately that had zero interest in the NBA in the down time between Run TMC and the Curry/Thompson era considering how you virtually never posted in these threads until your boys were front page material.
But by all means, please continue to pull rank and make immature insults.
I'm with black_floyd on this one. He is very knowledgeable about sports, and even if he wasn't, his assessment of Green is more than fair given what we've seen through the years.
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Ditto. To insult Josh's level of understanding of this sport demonstrates a certain childish-ness on your part Jerry. You are coming across as a homer in this respect.
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I'll jump into this bandwagon as well. Your stand on green is clearly biased because you are a warriors fan. If everyone else here feels like draymond is a dirty player, not just josh, maybe that should tell you something. And it's not just us here, it's something journalists and really the league as a whole knows.
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I'm ok with him being dirty. Teams need guys like that. Calling out another player in another conference dirty is opening him up to be criticized. Just shut your mouth and do what you do to help your team win.
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Bosk1, we are finally getting the WCF that we've been waiting for. My Spurs. Your Warriors. The Klaw vs The Chef. Hope it's a great series :tup The game deserves this match up
Looking forward to it. It's just a bummer about the injuries on San Antonio's side. I think that severely hurts their chances. But should still be good.
Can't be bothered to respond to the rest of the comments about Green. Honestly, it just reads like LeBron fanboy comments on ESPN.com.
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My personal opinion of Green is: Great player. Seems like the kind of guy that I'd hate to play against but would love playing with. He's maybe even a top fifteen player in the league. And his defense is insane.
That said, he does seem like a bit of a headcase. Between the constant yelling, technical fouls, kicking people in the balls, the locker room incident last year, and off-court controversies, I think it's safe to say he's not the most likable dude.
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Can't be bothered to respond to the rest of the comments about Green. Honestly, it just reads like LeBron fanboy comments on ESPN.com.
(https://s2.quickmeme.com/img/ca/ca1bb68c8ee4b31e8731ceae566792e507c18be7655c8da3c883578a2f0c5500.jpg)
My beef wasn't on your defense of Green - I have no idea what the guy is like off the court, and I sure as hell know that players that are hated can be great people. However, your shot at Josh was completely bush-league and uncalled for - especially coming from THE mod.
My personal opinion of Green is: Great player. Seems like the kind of guy that I'd hate to play against but would love playing with. He's maybe even a top fifteen player in the league. And his defense is insane.
That said, he does seem like a bit of a headcase. Between the constant yelling, technical fouls, kicking people in the balls, the locker room incident last year, and off-court controversies, I think it's safe to say he's not the most likable dude.
(https://replygif.net/i/1397.gif)
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Plus, I figure Black Floyd is an expert at getting kicked in the nuts. ;D
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Tim if you were on Facebook and friends with Josh, you'd want to see his down under.
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Tim if you were on Facebook and friends with Josh, you'd want to see his down under.
A. You're f'n crazy
B. No way in hell
C. I'd rather listen to Winger
D. DTF IS my Facebook
E. All of the above
I'm going with E!
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I'd go with C.for you. :lol
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Hell of a game 6.
Game 7. Monday night in Boston.
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Blown opportunity.
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Westbrook gagged it up in the playoffs at the end of games and was ousted quickly in the 1st round.
Harden showed how soft he is.
The Spurs just won two huge playoff games without Leonard.
Seems pretty obvious now that James was and IS the MVP.
Hmmm, who said that a month ago...? :P
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Westbrook gagged it up in the playoffs at the end of games and was ousted quickly in the 1st round.
Harden showed how soft he is.
The Spurs just won two huge playoff games without Leonard.
Seems pretty obvious now that James was and IS the MVP.
Hmmm, who said that a month ago...? :P
To be fair...postseason play should have no impact on a regular season award.
But yes.....James is underrated somehow. He's still #1 and #2 isn't close.
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At first I was kinda wtf about you saying Westbrook "gagged it up" but, after doing some research, I'm leaning a tad more toward your direction but still far more toward mine. Here are his ppg, rpg, apg, +/-, where his +/- ranked among all five Thunder starters for each game, his fga/fgm, and fg%.
Game 1: 22 11 7 -25 (5) 6/23 26.1%
Game 2: 51 10 13 +11 (3) 17/43 39.5%
Game 3: 32 12 11 +3 (3) 11/24 45.8%
Game 4: 35 14 14 +14 (1) 10/28 35.7%
Game 5: 47 11 9 +12 (2) 15/34 44.1%
Series averages: 37.4 11.6 10.8 +3.0 (2.8) 11.8/30.4 38.8%
I'm not for one second disagreeing about whether or not his -25 in game 1 should count because he played those minutes and it obviously counts but it certainly overshadows the fact that he averaged +10.0 in the four remaining games. His shooting was below average but two of the games were 44%+.
He had his ups and downs but it's ridiculously hard to average a triple double (regular season and playoffs) on a team with that kind of lack of depth and have every single stat look good. If he would've picked his shots better and spread the ball around more so he could average somewhere around 45-47% from the floor, do you honestly see his teammates picking up the slack and them performing better? It might be possible but it's doubtful anyone else on that team would be even a second option on any of the teams that made the playoffs this year.
It's too early in their careers for a proven producer like RW to regularly defer to them and hope for the best. Under these circumstances, saying he gagged it up is like saying the Timberwolves sucked because of Kevin Garnett. Lastly, LBJ has been my favorite NBA player since probably his third year or so which means I'm actually arguing against my own possible bias in this post.
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To be fair...postseason play should have no impact on a regular season award.
I understand that, but what we are seeing is like a reminder of what everyone deep down knew all along, but were hesitant to admit.
But yes.....James is underrated somehow. He's still #1 and #2 isn't close.
That is a portion of fans who will never give James his due, no matter what he does.
At first I was kinda wtf about you saying Westbrook "gagged it up" but, after doing some research, I'm leaning a tad more toward your direction but still far more toward mine. Here are his ppg, rpg, apg, +/-, where his +/- ranked among all five Thunder starters for each game, his fga/fgm, and fg%.
Game 1: 22 11 7 -25 (5) 6/23 26.1%
Game 2: 51 10 13 +11 (3) 17/43 39.5%
Game 3: 32 12 11 +3 (3) 11/24 45.8%
Game 4: 35 14 14 +14 (1) 10/28 35.7%
Game 5: 47 11 9 +12 (2) 15/34 44.1%
Series averages: 37.4 11.6 10.8 +3.0 (2.8) 11.8/30.4 38.8%
I'm not for one second disagreeing about whether or not his -25 in game 1 should count because he played those minutes and it obviously counts but it certainly overshadows the fact that he averaged +10.0 in the four remaining games. His shooting was below average but two of the games were 44%+.
He had his ups and downs but it's ridiculously hard to average a triple double (regular season and playoffs) on a team with that kind of lack of depth and have every single stat look good. If he would've picked his shots better and spread the ball around more so he could average somewhere around 45-47% from the floor, do you honestly see his teammates picking up the slack and them performing better? It might be possible but it's doubtful anyone else on that team would be even a second option on any of the teams that made the playoffs this year.
It's too early in their careers for a proven producer like RW to regularly defer to them and hope for the best. Under these circumstances, saying he gagged it up is like saying the Timberwolves sucked because of Kevin Garnett. Lastly, LBJ has been my favorite NBA player since probably his third year or so which means I'm actually arguing against my own possible bias in this post.
I hear what you are saying, but Westbrook has always been an inefficient player, even when he played with Durant (and Harden). He was just more of a volume shooter this year because there was no other superstar to demand high touches/shots. He is a fun player to watch, but this "chucker's mentality" is maddening to watch. He strikes me as the kind of player who doesn't want to win unless he is the reason the team wins.
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The tricky thing about the MVP Award is that the NBA intentionally leaves its criteria up to interpretation. Should the award go to the player who is most likely the best (LeBron)? Should it go to the player whose team relies on him the most offensively (Westbrook)? Should it go to the best player on the best team (Curry)?
I personally think that the award would be most historically significant if it simply went to the guy who was the most outstanding during the regular season.
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The tricky thing about the MVP Award is that the NBA intentionally leaves its criteria up to interpretation. Should the award go to the player who is most likely the best (LeBron)? Should it go to the player whose team relies on him the most offensively (Westbrook)? Should it go to the best player on the best team (Curry)?
I personally think that the award would be most historically significant if it simply went to the guy who was the most outstanding during the regular season.
One problem is that some of the voters are complete doofuses. Case in point: Chris Broussard. He was on Colin Cowherd's show near the end of the regular season, where Cowherd gave a well-thought out and nuanced argument as to why James is more valuable than Westbrook, and Broussard's only response was literally, "Yeah, but a triple double!" And that guy is an actual voter. :lol :lol :lol :lol
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GO SPURS GO
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Well that sucked.
And why in the world is a conference final starting before a conference semifinal is ending?
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Yeah, that sucked, but it showed that the Warriors can be had. I mean, the Spurs lost their best player and GS had to eke out a 2-point win at home in a game in which Curry and Durant both went bananas. Oh, and the play where Leonard reinjured his ankle...that was obviously an attempt by their no-name center to get his foot in the area where Leonard was going to land. Dirty play. Laimbeer used to do it all the time. I hate seeing crap like that.
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I'm not huge into basketball anymore. Didn't this game, and last year, show that big bruising defense still win in the playoffs? GSW is great and fun and all, but the small lineup is able to be had when the game slows down so to speak. GSW is for sure is better than my comparison, but this team reminds of Phoenix back in the 90s and 00's. Known for scoring a lot, but gets slowed down in the playoffs.
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Right, the Warriors lack of bigs is their achilles heel, but when it comes to rebounding, their style minimizes getting totally killed on the boards, since their missed 3s are often long rebounds where their guys who got boxed out because they are too small still get the rebounds. That happened a ton of times today.
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Just finished watching this game on the DVR about an hour ago. It was appalling how terrible they were pre-Kawhi injury. They showed decent resolve squeezing out a win that they basically played themselves out of for 28 minutes. Even with him out (on top of a still serviceable Tony Parker being out for the season), they still seemed to squander a lot of opportunities before finally going on that close-out run somewhere around the point where they trailed 92-81.
It definitely showed that having Kerr out is gonna be a huge-ass factor. If SA manages to steal game 2, GS will be in deep shit but all of this depends on how Kawhi's MRI goes.
At any rate, it was fun as fuck to see one of my preferred teams pull off a comeback like that, qualifiers and all.
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My beef wasn't on your defense of Green - I have no idea what the guy is like off the court, and I sure as hell know that players that are hated can be great people. However, your shot at Josh was completely bush-league and uncalled for - especially coming from THE mod.
I wouldn't really call it a "defense." I'm not trying to "defend" him, and he doesn't need me to "defend" him (as if any NBA player needs that from a casual fan). Just pointing that that the "facts" pointed out about him are just completely devoid of being factual. And that is only relevant because he was referred to as a POS by someone who wished him to "suffer a career-ending injury." So, sorry you feel it is "bush league" to call out someone for wishing a "career-ending injury" on someone, but I don't. I think it's pretty disgusting to wish that on somebody, and that very thing has been called out in other sports-related threads as well. So, yeah, I think your criticism is off base and I stand by feeling that that sort of reaction is completely disgusting, not to mention ill-informed when it is based on misinformation.
But on to more relevant and timely discussion...
Bosk1, we are finally getting the WCF that we've been waiting for. My Spurs. Your Warriors. The Klaw vs The Chef. Hope it's a great series :tup The game deserves this match up
Game 1 did not disappoint in terms of being exciting and full of incredible twists and turns. I feel SO bad for San Antonio fans about Kawhi though. Dude is so much fun to watch, and just seems like he has ice flowing through his veins. Reminds me of when Curry went down twice with ankle and knee injuries last year. It's tough to lose your best guy and then wonder "what if" when things don't go well after that. Hope he recovers soon.
I'll also say, the resilience of this team amazes me. I thought they were going to limp into Oakland and get beat pretty bad in game 1. They came out on fire. And there were so many moments in this game where other teams would have folded, by they just kept answering back and fighting. For any other team, I think losing 20+ point leads to the Warriors twice in such a short span of time would be a dagger through the heart that would suck the life out of them. But I don't expect the Spurs to fold at all. I think the series goes 5 games, but is going to be hard-fought all the way through.
The tricky thing about the MVP Award is that the NBA intentionally leaves its criteria up to interpretation. Should the award go to the player who is most likely the best (LeBron)? Should it go to the player whose team relies on him the most offensively (Westbrook)? Should it go to the best player on the best team (Curry)?
I personally think that the award would be most historically significant if it simply went to the guy who was the most outstanding during the regular season.
One problem is that some of the voters are complete doofuses. Case in point: Chris Broussard. He was on Colin Cowherd's show near the end of the regular season, where Cowherd gave a well-thought out and nuanced argument as to why James is more valuable than Westbrook, and Broussard's only response was literally, "Yeah, but a triple double!" And that guy is an actual voter. :lol :lol :lol :lol
Kev, I get where you are coming from, especially on voters being doofuses. Now, I don't know anything about Broussard, and I didn't see the segment you are referring to. But why is that point not valid? I mean, yeah, triple-doubles alone may not say anything. And, in fact, a single player getting triple-doubles left and right might actually be indicative of a style of play that is detrimental to his team. But the fact that he is the first guy to average that stat through an entire season is monumental. It shows a level of consistently high play that, IMO, absolutely puts Westbrook in the discussion. I'm not saying that should make him a shoe-in or that other players' accomplishments are secondary. But I don't see why it isn't a valid discussion point.
Taking the entire season up through sweeping the first two rounds in the playoffs, yeah, I might put LBJ at #1 in the MVP race too. But as of the end of the season when it was decided, it's easy to see why he was probably around #3 in the voting given that he had not been playing particularly well since the all-star break, and that his team took a nosedive and gagged away the #1 seed despite having a commanding lead for that spot. Meanwhile, Harden and Westbrook were transcending and carrying their respective teams. I mean, I'm not trying to argue decisively for any particular candidate. Just saying that I think voting for someone other than LBJ would have been perfectly legitimate. It was a four horse race between Westbrook, Harden, James, and Leonard, and I wouldn't feel that the voters got it "wrong" if ANY of those guys wins it.
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Just finished watching this game on the DVR about an hour ago. It was appalling how terrible they were pre-Kawhi injury. They showed decent resolve squeezing out a win that they basically played themselves out of for 28 minutes. Even with him out (on top of a still serviceable Tony Parker being out for the season), they still seemed to squander a lot of opportunities before finally going on that close-out run somewhere around the point where they trailed 92-81.
It definitely showed that having Kerr out is gonna be a huge-ass factor. If SA manages to steal game 2, GS will be in deep shit but all of this depends on how Kawhi's MRI goes.
At any rate, it was fun as fuck to see one of my preferred teams pull off a comeback like that, qualifiers and all.
I heard today that it was the 3rd biggest comeback in NBA playoff history, but thanks to the dirty play that took Leonard out, it has a big asterisk on it. Too bad, cause this could have been a good, long series.
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I had to cut my nails this morning.
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You need them for this game.
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These refs shoul d be tested for drugs. I'm not even trying to be a homer. It's bad.
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It is bad. It makes these games almost unwatchable. Smart didn't even touch the guy there.
There has to be something done about flopping.
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That was so glaring.
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But it's not just tonight. It's every game. I'm not a basketball guy, but my 14 y/o loves it, so we've watched most of the last three seasons together. It's been nice. But the officiating totally blows. I understand stuff happens fast, but so many calls make zero sense. And as I said, the flopping is disgusting.
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I expect touchy fouls in the NBA it in game 7, don't affect the outcome of the game with ghost fouls.
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So true. Let them play.
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Its up to tgr Celtics now to outplay them and not allow the refs to affect the game. No excuses.
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They are too soft to win this game.
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Let's be real. It is a win to be slaughtered by LeBron but the C's need this win.
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Alright C's you hit expectations. Prove me wrong.
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:metal
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The G.O.A.T with Tom Brady? :lol
(https://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/kingshmegland/IMG_20170515_225114_zpskhjdl47f.jpg) (https://s583.photobucket.com/user/kingshmegland/media/IMG_20170515_225114_zpskhjdl47f.jpg.html)
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:rollin
Who's afraid of curses?
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That pic has been stored away for a while. :lol
Tim, do you know the story behind that picture?
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Hell yes! That's the Durant trip.
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Sure is. So damn close.
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Wow, Boston is in major trouble. I mean, Indiana is as well. But the difference is, I don't think many were really expecting them to do anything against the Cavs. I don't think anyone was expecting Boston to be down 2 heading to Chicago.
This has been the standard the last 3 years for the C's.
They can't turn it up a notch in the playoffs while other teams can. Not enough talent in their top 7 players.
I'm expecting someone here to say he was wrong...
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Just finished watching this game on the DVR about an hour ago. It was appalling how terrible they were pre-Kawhi injury. They showed decent resolve squeezing out a win that they basically played themselves out of for 28 minutes. Even with him out (on top of a still serviceable Tony Parker being out for the season), they still seemed to squander a lot of opportunities before finally going on that close-out run somewhere around the point where they trailed 92-81.
It definitely showed that having Kerr out is gonna be a huge-ass factor. If SA manages to steal game 2, GS will be in deep shit but all of this depends on how Kawhi's MRI goes.
At any rate, it was fun as fuck to see one of my preferred teams pull off a comeback like that, qualifiers and all.
I heard today that it was the 3rd biggest comeback in NBA playoff history, but thanks to the dirty play that took Leonard out, it has a big asterisk on it. Too bad, cause this could have been a good, long series.
Interesting take. I can't really disagree, since when the refs reviewed it, they assessed the tech/flagrant. Oh, wait... Well, what I mean is, I have to agree, since when the league subsequently reviewed it, they assessed the...oh, hmm, no, they didn't do that either. Oh well. I guess I'm fresh out of ideas for how to "asterisk" this one.
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Wow, Boston is in major trouble. I mean, Indiana is as well. But the difference is, I don't think many were really expecting them to do anything against the Cavs. I don't think anyone was expecting Boston to be down 2 heading to Chicago.
This has been the standard the last 3 years for the C's.
They can't turn it up a notch in the playoffs while other teams can. Not enough talent in their top 7 players.
I'm expecting someone here to say he was wrong...
I'm glad to be but in all honesty they had to prove it to us C's fans. They finally hit expectations.
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I'm glad to be but in all honesty they had to prove it to us C's fans. They finally hit expectations.
I wouldn't say "finally". The Celtics in the Stevens era have been meeting expectations right along. The only bump in the road was the 1st Round loss to Atlanta last year.
What the Celtics were really striving for this year was the to overtake Toronto and grab the #2 Seed, and to not only win R1, but beat anyone other than Cleveland or a healthy Toronto (who most fans still thought were better than Boston) in R2. They did that.
The only thing was that their potential to advance was really an unknown. Other than last year's playoff, the Celts have yet to take a step back. I would argue that they've been hitting expectations right along.
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Congrats to C's fans. Now do the unexpected.
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I would love that.
Tim, that was a huge letdown last year. The expectations we all heard this year was conference championship. I expect nothing this round but like bosk1 just said, I would love the unexpected.
Funny thing is the C's play well against the Warriors except for 1 blowout in 3 years I believe.
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hold on a minute.....
are there seriously people ITT defending Green, saying that he isn't dirty?
:rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin
wow..... just wow. Draymond green has been the dirtiest player in the league for the last few seasons, bar none. I hope more than anything that the spurs beat the warriors.
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Childish response is childish.
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Holy crap!! #1 pick!!!
Draft, trade, draft, trade?????
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And just like that, the NBA world shall explode into lottery rigging accusations.
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Brady rigged it.
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Kinda funny that the Celtics rep said he wishes the draft were today so they could get some help for tomorrow night. Even he knows they have no shot to beat the Cavs.
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Owners say the dumbest things.
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Brady rigged it.
Belichick filmed the Lottery walkthrough.
Kinda funny that the Celtics rep said he wishes the draft were today so they could get some help for tomorrow night. Even he knows they have no shot to beat the Cavs.
Eh, what's he gonna say?
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And just like that, the NBA world shall explode into lottery rigging accusations.
I think you could say that if the Lakers, as I expected, got the #1.
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Lonzo Ball and his circus clown of a dad are made for LA. It will be a perfect fit.
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Couldn't even be bothered to come to the lottery.
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Too busy selling half G kicks outta his trunk on Sunset Blvd.
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Too busy selling half G kicks outta his trunk on Sunset Blvd.
:lol
At first, I was like WTF did you say, but then I ran it through Google translate Ebonics to English. $500 sneakers. Got it!
You are black...Floyd.
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And you are so old and white Tim. :lol
Try this search engine. Snoop will help. :lol
https://gizoogle.net
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Too busy selling half G kicks outta his trunk on Sunset Blvd.
:lol
At first, I was like WTF did you say, but then I ran it through Google translate Ebonics to English. $500 sneakers. Got it!
You are black...Floyd.
If such a thing exists, that's beyond awesome. Also, the Warriors are on a 102-52 run (58-33 in game 1, 44-19 in this game) since Kawhi Leonard's injury. Pretty strong argument for MVP right there.
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I suspect just about any team would get shellacked by the Warriors without their best player, which is taking nothing away from how good Leonard is.
What a shame that what could have been a good series is now a joke, all because of what was called a dirty play by both Mark Jackson and Jeff Van Gundy in the pre-game.
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Are my eyes correct; Durant is a good defender?
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:lol Even Jackson and Van Gundy say bone-headed things.
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Congrats on that 1 seed, Celtics. :rollin :rollin
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I think you know that was a false #1. I have no illusions what will happen in this series.
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Honestly, I am surprised they are keeping it this close.
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The Cavs will have a 2-0 series lead after Game 1!
The Celtics can't hit the ocean from the beach.
When Tyler Zeller gets in the game in the first half, you know it's bad.
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The league is about superstars. And the Cavs have "The Superstar".
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You're "The Superstar"!
:natalieportman:
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At least my Raptors aren't the only team that Cleveland treats like a joke. :sadpanda:
The scary thing is that, as well as the Cavs are playing, Golden State might turn the tables and make them look like a joke in the Finals.
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At least my Raptors aren't the only team that Cleveland treats like a joke. :sadpanda:
The scary thing is that, as well as the Cavs are playing, Golden State might turn the tables and make them look like a joke in the Finals.
I don't see that happening. I see another epic series that very well could go 7 games again.
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Yeah, I don't see that either. That will be like that last 2 series for them.
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It'll be ridiculous if they both enter the finals 12-0. Too bad the weak east and injury-hobbled Spurs' lack of playing to their true potential will be more than enough fuel to keep the haters talking shit about the finals and muddying up potentially the best finals matchup since 1987.
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Draymond Green said something outlandish today. In other news, water is wet.
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Congrats on that 1 seed, Celtics. :rollin :rollin
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4-0 sweep. No game changer like LeBron.
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Almost a 40 point lead. Time for a movie. Lol
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They're going to sweep the Celtics in 2 games!
This has been embarrassing. A JOKE!!
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This shit is a reason why many fans have turned away from watching NBA Games now. They don't wanna see 40 pt blowouts. They wanna see competition, nail biting to the last second games.
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40? Try 50!!
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Plenty of biting going on in this game.
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I hope San Antonio can put up a bigger fight tomorrw. Ginobli came out today during their practice and said everyone seemed like they felt sorry for themselves during Game 2, and they are gonna come out tomorrow playing Spurs ball, with or without Leonard.
Honestly, as Spurs fan, and this not me giving up on my Team...even if Kawhi is questionable or even can play less than 100%, Pop should not play him. He did something similiar to Tim Duncan back in 2000, the year after they won their first Championship. Tim Duncan injured his knee before the playoffs and didnt play the last few games of the regular season. Timmy was about 75% healthy by the time the playoffs came. Pop sat Duncan so that he would be a healthy player for them in the future. That series we lost to the Suns 3-1. Probably could have contested the Lakers in the WCF with healthy Duncan. Afterwards, drafted Parker and Ginobli, and got 4 more championships, retired the Admiral a Champion, and an extended career for Duncan.
The Spurs have always been about the bigger picture. And I think Pop will sit Leonard for the rest of the series.
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This shit is a reason why many fans have turned away from watching NBA Games now. They don't wanna see 40 pt blowouts. They wanna see competition, nail biting to the last second games.
Yup. I flipped to this for a brief moment and the Cavs were up by 14 after 1 quarter? And 41 at the half!?!?! This isn't entertaining.... it's like watching a college team play an elementary school team.
When the level of play is THIS lopsided, the league is not doing themselves any favours.
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This shit is a reason why many fans have turned away from watching NBA Games now. They don't wanna see 40 pt blowouts. They wanna see competition, nail biting to the last second games.
And even those are often annoying to watch since the last minute of a close game has 11 timeouts, 8 commercial breaks and countless free throw attempts.
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It's still a better product than baseball. 4 hour games is killing that sport.
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This shit is a reason why many fans have turned away from watching NBA Games now. They don't wanna see 40 pt blowouts. They wanna see competition, nail biting to the last second games.
And even those are often annoying to watch since the last minute of a close game has 11 timeouts, 8 commercial breaks and countless free throw attempts.
Agreed. The final two minutes of a close NBA game (and NFL for that matter), can take 20-25 minutes. This is why I rarely watch sports live, and prefer to DVR it, then start it about an hour/hour 1/2 into the game.
@ King... Baseball just isn't exciting no matter what the score.
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I played baseball a lot growing up and I loved watching it. Games were 2 1/2 hours then. 9 inning games now can take an hour or more.
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I was the same way. Baseball was my favorite sport when I was a kid. I loved collecting baseball cards and the history of the sport was so fascinating, but over time I simply lost interest. The McGwire HR chase sucked me back in the late 90s, and then the greatness of Albert Pujols made the sport fun for me again, but ever since 2011, my interest in the sport has plummeted to where I literally do not give a shit about it anymore.
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Thomas is out for last two games, so now it's official.
https://www.nba.com/article/2017/05/20/boston-celtics-isaiah-thomas-out-remainder-playoffs-hip-injury
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Bummer. He was one of the best stories this season. His grit on the court and his genuine personality off the court. When his sister passed away, it was such a heartbreaking story. Watching him play through his grief...I can't imagine playing a game with all that emotion. He will be a player I'll closely follow throughout his career.
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Bummer. He was one of the best stories this season. His grit on the court and his genuine personality off the court. When his sister passed away, it was such a heartbreaking story. Watching him play through his grief...I can't imagine playing a game with all that emotion. He will be a player I'll closely follow throughout his career.
Definitely. And watching it up close here, he has really been amazing.
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Thomas is out for last two games, so now it's official.
https://www.nba.com/article/2017/05/20/boston-celtics-isaiah-thomas-out-remainder-playoffs-hip-injury
The TAC Casino is setting the Game 3 spread at 80.
Lots of money coming in on the Cavs.
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Bummer to see Thomas' season end like that, but all this means is they will lose by 40 instead of 30 the next game. :lol :lol
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Kenny Smith brought Monopoly and Scrabble for him and Barkley to plat at halftime, figuring another ass beating won't require any analysis again (they were playing Go Fish at halftime of Game 2 :lol). Can the Celtics keep this within 30 tonight??
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Nope. They can't. Sad to say.
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Kenny Smith brought Monopoly and Scrabble for him and Barkley to plat at halftime,
:rollin
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Kenny Smith brought Monopoly and Scrabble for him and Barkley to plat at halftime,
:rollin
:lol :lol :mehlin :lol :lol
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Kevin Love is ridiculous.
The Celtics have shot like shit this entire series. They've had plenty of open looks.
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I think the Cavs got lulled to sleep. :lol
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Cavs pissed me the fuck off. Seeing two undefeated teams face off in the finals is a truly once in a lifetime opportunity and they turned into scared-ass, pussy front runners and were actually playing scared with a double digit lead. Pathetic.
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I went to bed down 16. What the hell happened?
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Simply put, the Cavs took their foot off the gas, and once the Celtics grabbed the momentum and got back in it, Cleveland could never get back on their game. And all of those open shots that Boston was missing early on, went in late. Props to Brad Stevens for keeping his team in it.
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I have no illusions about the series. I'm glad to see there is fight left in them.
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Manu Ginobli got the start tonight...in what might be his last game ever :'(
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Congratulations to Golden State. Go redeem yourselves in the Finals.
Win or lose, I will always bleed Black and Silver. I wished we could have had a healthy team to compete. Without our leaders in Tony Parker, and of course our MVP, Kawhi Leonard, it was almost impossible to move on. Things we need to do for next season: RESIGN Jonathan Simmons! That is a priority. We also need a true big man...Aldridge is not getting it done for us. I never saw him block out once for a rebound this entire series. Dissapointed in his play. We also need to get another playmaking point guard, especially if Ginobili in a couple weeks announces his retirment.
Thank you for another great season, San Antonio. GO SPURS GO!!!
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I've been saying it for a while, the Spurs should try to sign Paul Millsap and trade LMA for some good assets
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Congrats to the Spurs as well. Even though you guys are out, just the consistency to make it this far YET AGAIN, year-in and year-out, is incredible. Aldridge is a bit of a mystery. Granted, I don't follow the team much during the regular season, but it seems like the guy is a beast when his other stars are in. He just isn't a guy that can put the team on his back and do it alone. And that's okay. Every guy on a team doesn't need to be that. I wouldn't read too much into him not doing well against GS. Not only were your top 2 players out, but the Warriors are top 3 in almost every defensive stat. They are going to shut guys down. It just is what it is. But the thing with the Spurs is, they are so well coached and they have so many great pieces in place already that with or without Aldridge next year, I would expect them to be contenders again.
Looking forward to the finals now. 4 wins to go! And for those few Draymond Green haters out there who have bought into the soundbytes without taking the time to actually watch or listen to him, I highly recommend his post-game press conference from last night. Great reminder of what a class act the guy consistently is. Whether in victory or the rare defeat, he's consistently so well spoken. Can't help but admire the guy.
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The problem with Aldridge is that it wasn't just against GSW, he struggled against Memphis and Houston as well, he only had 1 great game against Houston when he was able to step up when Leonard was missing. He was given a huge salary because he was putting up 20-10 numbers during his last 2 seasons in Portland, sometimes carrying that team all on his own. His numbers last year were better than this year. If you are getting a max salary you should be able to show your face during hard games and score 20+, 30 points to carry your team, instead it was the 39 year old guy who had to try and carry the team.
Also, stop talking about the warriors, no one cares anymore
:neverusethis:
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The Spurs need to get younger. And I have no idea how they go about doing that. Considering guys like Milsap or Chris Paul...wrong direction IMO. Sure, for bench depth you can go with older vets, but they need to sign someone that is still in their 20s. Just not sure who is out there. But Leonard needs help. LaMarcus ALdridge has really not been the player I thought he'd be with the Spurs. I thought he'd continue to be a solid 20/10 guy next to Leonard, but he's not. That's a problem. And they need a young, talented PG.
Congrats to the Warriors. I am not the biggest fan of that team. I'm sort of sick of all the fairweather fans here in Nor Cal. But I have crazy respect for their talent and depth. So if it is them and the Cavs, go Warriors all the way. Frankly, I just don't like the Cavs. I have a ton of respect for Lebron's game, but not his whining after every call by the refs. The team had a ton of talent, I just don't like them. Irving is the guy I like most, and honestly wish he was with someone else, so he could truly be the #1 dude somewhere.
And hey, this New Yorker has to give credit to...ugh...Boston. They showed so much guts the other night against Cleveland. I fully expect the Celtics to lose the next two games, but man, what a great future they have. I think if they decide to pay Thomas, however, they better be prepared to have him be a max contract guy who at some points becomes a spark plug 6th man. You KNOW they are going to draft Markelle Fultz, who is a ball dominant guard just like Thomas. I just don't see them co-existing for very long. They are the same player, except Fultz is bigger.
Anyway, its pretty obvious GS and CLE is the gold standard of the league. I really would like to see a bit more parity and make things a bit more competitive among the rest of the teams. Not sure how that is done, honestly. But I think the league needs to get there. Then again, teams go through streaks. The Lakers, Celtics, Bulls, Pistons, all had similar runs. So maybe it will run its course this year.
I know no one else here is a Timberwolves fan, but man, I am just not sure what they are going to do in the offseason. I know they are not going to re-sign Shabazz Muhammed (Thank God, the guy has like the worst assist ratio in the league -- I call him the black hole every time he touches the ball). But as well as Rubio played at PG the last 20 games of the year, I am still not convinced he's the guy to lead the team. Maybe he is. I am just not sure.
Dunn had a good last game, and I like Tyus Jones a lot. But neither has really shown they can "be the man," and I am not sure you can trade Rubio for depth, and trust one of those two to run the team full time. And I certainly don't want to do a sign and trade with the Knicks and get Derrick Rose. That is all sorts of no, even if Coach Thibs loves D-Rose. Rose is done as a premier player in the league.
So big decisions. Part of me would like to see (this is pure fan boy dream here) the Celtics do a sign and trade with the Wolves for Thomas. I think Thomas could really thrive on the Wolves, but then that brings along problems of resigning Towns, Wiggins and Lavine in the years ahead. So just not sure what they should do. I do know that throwing that money on Gorgie Dieng was a huge mistake. Not sure how they get out of that.
Anyway, congrats to the Warriors (and their fans) and ultimately, Cleveland and its fans. Should be a good finals.
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All I'm hoping for is a good Finals. I'm fine with either the Cavs or Warriors winning it, but let's at least take six games to decide.
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Congrats to the Warriors. I am not the biggest fan of that team. I'm sort of sick of all the fairweather fans here in Nor Cal.
Just to step in and defend the "fair weather fans" for a moment... :) Hey, I'm admittedly one of them, and I've made no bones about it. I've never been a huge NBA fan at any point in my life, and never really had a team that I considered "my own" that I was a die-hard fan of. I went to a couple of Warriors games as a kid, and liked them well enough, but never followed them actively. I grew to dislike the Lakers, and it was fun rooting against them and rooting for the Celtics in the '80s.
When it comes to basketball, I don't watch avidly, but when I do, I root for players I like and teams that deliver a fun product. That translated to me joining my So. Cal. friends in rooting for the Kobe/Shaq Lakers when they were having their run during the time I was in So. Cal. for law school. Seeing the Kings stand up to them and refuse to wilt and die game after game gave me a tremendous respect for that iteration of that team, and I rooted for them until that group was broken up. I liked the Paul Pierce Celtics. I even rooted for the Wade/LeBron Heat before I grew tired of LeBron's whining and dirty play because I admire his on-court skills and felt like that deserved to be rewarded with a ring (or a few of them).
That brings me to the present-day Warriors. They have two things going for them that I appreciate: (1) They are incredibly fun to watch, not only because they win, but because of the way they play the game; and (2) They are a pleasure to watch because the personality of their coach and most of the players is contagious; they are just professional nice guys that you can't help but like if you halfway pay attention to them. I can't even begin to call myself a die-hard Warriors fan. But I really enjoy the personalities of coach Kerr and players like Curry, Thompson, and Green. And they keep surrounding themselves with other players that become likeable as well. I kind of liken it to not really being a fan of a particular band, but finding a particular album that I love, and playing that album to death. Don't hate on me if I was late to the party on that band, but love that one or two albums and wear one of their t-shirts in public. So, yeah, I proudly espouse my place in the ranks of "fair weather" Warriors fans, and I support my fellow bandwagoners wholeheartedly. :)
But I have crazy respect for their talent and depth.
Their talent and depth have been their hallmark. But I want to also underscore something Popovich pointed out last night in his postgame. This is undoubtedly a deep and talented team. No question. But that isn't the end of the story. They don't simply rely on talent to get by. They put in the effort to further develop their talent, both individually AND as a unit, and practice, practice, practice on how to properly execute in a way that maximizes and, at times, transcends their talent level. It's the polar opposite of certain players in the league through the years that undoubtedly have the talent, but don't develop it to where they and their teammates around them can execute consistently in the clutch.
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Congrats to the Warriors. I am not the biggest fan of that team. I'm sort of sick of all the fairweather fans here in Nor Cal.
Just to step in and defend the "fair weather fans" for a moment... :) Hey, I'm admittedly one of them, and I've made no bones about it. I've never been a huge NBA fan at any point in my life, and never really had a team that I considered "my own" that I was a die-hard fan of. I went to a couple of Warriors games as a kid, and liked them well enough, but never followed them actively. I grew to dislike the Lakers, and it was fun rooting against them and rooting for the Celtics in the '80s.
Here it is about "fair-weather" fans; it is very hard not to be. It almost turns into a pissing contest.
Tru-fan "I'm been with the team since 85'"
F.W.-fan "Me too!"
T.F "Really, so you remember that game in 87?"
F.W. *lies*
T.F. "you no true fan, only follow when it's good! I was with them when they lost every game!" *i'm better than you because of this!*
It's all good in concept, but watching crap teams year after year gets old, and not worth the effort most of the time. Especially if you go see games in person, and/or buy merch. Then it feels like wasted money at times if you aren't entertained by a lose. I have been following the New England Patsies officially since 95-96's 6-10 year. I would be lying if I said I was actively following before 01-02, especially with the 5-11 year in 00-01. And when Belichick retires, and Bob Kraft kicks the can, I'm sure the team will not be as good. And my interest in following intently will waver. But I'm still a fan. And if I'm not a *tru-fan*, than so be it. And your dick is bigger than mine, congratulations.
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I get it. Trust me. The whole bandwagon thing is natural. I am a long-suffering New York JETS fan, and I stay with them. The Timberwolves have never made the NBA Finals, much less win one. The Islanders haven't won a cup since the 80s. My only saving grace has been the Yankees, and while I was technically a fan as a 3 year older, it wasn't until 1984 that I was a real "fan," and they started their decline right after that season. Thankfully, I was with them before they started their streak in the late 90s and early 2000s.
But while I get the fairweather fan syndrome, I just never could do it. I am loyal to my teams. And while I appreciate great teams (the Warriors, the Cavs, etc., etc.) I just can't align myself with them because I appreciate how good they are. Not when I have been a fan of other teams my entire life (or in the case of the Wolves, since they existed).
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Great effort and game by Boston last night, but James and Irving were not going to let them lose that game. Fabulous comeback.
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And for those few Draymond Green haters out there who have bought into the soundbytes without taking the time to actually watch or listen to him, I highly recommend his post-game press conference from last night.
Not gonna try to put words in your mouth but what is your actual opinion of those that dislike him and his ways and know their shit? Your wording, at face value, seems to imply that those that dislike him and his ways are haters, not people disliking him because they're rational people with valid opinions.
Based on the posts in this thread, most of us watch at least some games and some of us watch a lot of games. If it was just general venting, then disregard this post. If it was toward people posting in this thread, I'm just curious who is being addressed since I consider the majority of us to be a bit more initiated than those whom only watch ESPN talking head shows.
Beyond all of this, he can cure cancer or sit on his couch for the entire offseason eating pizza and playing video games and we wouldn't begrudge him one way or the other based on that. Likewise, most of us would probably easily let him off the hook if he didn't have such a shitty resume of dirty plays and be immaturely demonstrative after virtually every single foul call. I've even seen him still going after refs for clearly legit calls against his teammates in recent games.
Don't expect the masses to accept someone whom conducts himself in a manner, relative to his peers, that would have you or any of your colleagues laughing him out of an interview if he carried himself in such a way in that environment. And no, I don't mean flailing his arms and kicking office people in their groins, I generally mean carrying himself with a maturity/professionalism level clearly in the bottom 10% of his field, whatever it may be.
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For the record, I am a big fan of Draymond Green's effort and defensive skill on the basketball court. But I am not a fan of anything else about him that I have personally seen. He's a "glue" guy, but more like a poor man's version of Charles Oakley or Anthony Mason. I don't think Draymond would have hung with those guys in their era. Those guys played the same way Draymond does, but Draymond seems to cross the line too much, and whine (like too many of today's players). Just not a fan.
And knowing bosk1, I don't think he intended to describe those that dislike Draymond as "haters" and not rational people with valid opinions. It's rough sometimes wording something in a post when you're trying to reply and then do something else at the same time. I took his post to be pointing at those that just look at the highlights and see Draymond's big mouth and pass judgment, instead of watching him play intently.
I think most in this thread are the latter (at least for the most part), so I wouldn't take offense.
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And knowing bosk1, I don't think he intended to describe those that dislike Draymond as "haters" and not rational people with valid opinions. It's rough sometimes wording something in a post when you're trying to reply and then do something else at the same time. I took his post to be pointing at those that just look at the highlights and see Draymond's big mouth and pass judgment, instead of watching him play intently.
I think most in this thread are the latter (at least for the most part), so I wouldn't take offense.
Yeah, pretty much that. But on the flipside, I also think that, to an extent, most of the few that are truly "offended" by him don't really understand the game and how it is played, and are instead projecting on him what they think the game of basketball should be rather than what it is. But at the end of the day, it doesn't really matter. I think the criticism is overblown and silly, that's all. But to briefly address the two points made about him:
-As far as his mouth and him being verbally and physically demonstrative, all I can say is: okay. If you don't like it and you think it crosses the line, so be it. I don't have a problem with it and wouldn't even if he were on another team than the one I happen to follow. What he does, IMO, is well within the bounds of what is acceptable in pro sports, especially basketball, and it isn't offensive whatsoever to me. Does that mean he doesn't sometimes get carried away and go too far? Nope. I have to concede that he absolutely does. But for my own tolerance level, it has never gotten to the point where I have found it offputting, and it is mostly well within the bounds of what I think a team's fiery, emotional "heart-and-soul" player is expected to be.
-As far as the "dirty play," I'll just stand by what I said a few pages back, and say that, to me, it's a tricky call. He is a physical player, and one who definitely pushes the boundaries and sometimes crosses them. But what he does is always part of a "basketball play," and, to me, doesn't go too far (usually). Hey, if that bothers people, I get it. And that's where I admit that he is the type of player that, if he is playing for you, you love it, and if he is playing against you, you hate it. I get that. But I just wouldn't call it "dirty" regardless of which side he happens to be on. For those that do, that's fine. I think it's a fine line. But what bothers me is seeing either exaggeration or blatant falsehood about his style of play, and I generally find that those who throw those kinds of things out there as if they are accepted fact to be pretty clueless. If you have to exaggerate to make your point, I'm going to feel free to disregard it and not take you seriously, whoever you are. I can tell you exactly why I like him as a player, and I can tell you exactly why I disagree with a lot of the criticism that I think is unfairly leveled at him. For anyone that wants to have that discussion, I'm happy to discuss. But when it devolves into "oh, that nut-kicker!" or "immaturely demonstrative after virtually every single foul call" or "resume of dirty plays" or the like, again, I just can't take you seriously. If you want to be taken seriously, take facts and let's discuss. As with just about any other topic on Internet discussion forums, it's possible to have impassioned, heated debate about something without resorting to exaggerating or bending the truth to fit an argument. And it is often rewarding. But when it just devolves into social-media-type catchphrases that don't paint an accurate picture, it's not productive.
EDIT: And if you think I'm wrong, don't be afraid to speak up just because I'm the admin. I can take criticism, and I can take being called out, even if I may disagree, as long as that criticism doesn't cross the line into personal attacks or other rule issues.
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I think all teams need a guy like Green who is willing to get down and dirty. His skills are at a high level as well. I'd want him on the C's.
For me it was him calling a player who isn't dirty, in another division a little dumb. When you play like he does you shouldn't call out others for the things you do. The problem with Green and so many other pro players is that they live in this sports bubble. It's a weird life.
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The problem with Green and so many other pro players is that they live in this sports bubble. It's a weird life.
Bingo. It has GOT to be strange, for sure. I think it all changed once pro athletes really embraced the "entertainer" part of what they do. When they were just out playing and getting a paycheck, it was what it was. Now, everyone has to build up their "brand," and be "on" for media. Some of these guys are completely different people. But they want you to THINK they are a particular way.
Goes with musicians too, to a degree. Any famous person, I guess.
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For me it was him calling a player who isn't dirty, in another division a little dumb. When you play like he does you shouldn't call out others for the things you do.
I'll give you "dumb." But keep in mind that he did NOT say he isn't. And he did make, IMO, and important distinction between how he plays and how Olynyk plays. His point was that the moves Olynyk pulls are likely to result in injury to other players, which has actually happened, and he was saying that that is crossing the line. Whether or not you agree with his assessment of Olynyk's play, I think that is a valid distinction. But granted that, yeah, it does seem dumb coming from the mouth of someone who makes no bones about pushing the envelope himself. I just think the distinction he made gets lost in all that (as does the fact that he was responding to a question, and not going out of his way to just slam another player out of the blue).
The problem with Green and so many other pro players is that they live in this sports bubble. It's a weird life.
For sure. And musicians. And actors. Becoming a celebrity makes you unable to meaningfully deal with the real world, IMO.
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I don't remember if he was asked or just randomly gave his thoughts. But i agree with what you said. Olynyk only had that one instance with the separated shoulder with Kevin Love. He's never been a tough player at all. I wish he would play with an attitude like Green. All teams need toughness.
Well, I guess tonight may be the last game for the C's. I hope not. I'd love to at least see a game 6.
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Well, they are back in Boston, so maybe they'll feed off of that and make one last gasp. Too bad they couldn't have stolen game 4 in Cleveland. Even with the series tied and them coming back home, I would still have given the Cavs the edge in winning the series, but at least it would have been interesting. I do acknowledge that teams coming back from a 3-1 deficit deep in the playoffs happened TWICE last year. But (no offense) the C's just aren't as talented as either of those two teams were.
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No I agree. they are not talented enough. They've got a lot of grit but not the superstar player to put them over the top.
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Is this a replay of game 2?
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(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT77fizrRVrzWk4Awwko_y-9UA32631rT6d5rPtSHheYBVDz6nt)
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:clap:
Participation banner?
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(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT77fizrRVrzWk4Awwko_y-9UA32631rT6d5rPtSHheYBVDz6nt)
:rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin
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:lol
This isn't Indy Tim! :lol
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(https://usatftw.files.wordpress.com/2015/06/screen-shot-2015-06-11-at-4-08-03-pm.png)
Of course it could be worse:
(https://usatftw.files.wordpress.com/2015/06/mystics.jpg?w=660&h=441)
:neverusethis:
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lololololol
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(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT77fizrRVrzWk4Awwko_y-9UA32631rT6d5rPtSHheYBVDz6nt)
:rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin
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No Finals chatter, eh?
I will say this: the pressure is squarely on the shoulders of Kevin Durant. The Warriors have to win this series, and he has to play well.
By all accounts, the Warriors should win this series, but the Cavs have the best player in basketball, are the better 3-point shooting team this year, and will be playing more loose and free (as a big underdog). I think GS will win it, but I won't be surprised by any result.
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No Finals chatter, eh?
Kinda hard to be 'in the mood', when the first three rounds have been such a bore.
I will say this: the pressure is squarely on the shoulders of Kevin Durant. The Warriors have to win this series, and he has to play well.
Agreed. He is literally the only meaningful difference this year.
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I am excited for the Finals, but I'm trying to stay cautious. There's a chance it could be a real blowout. For example, I just read an ESPN article that said the Warriors' point differential this postseason is about six points per one hundred possessions better than the Cavs' after factoring in the quality of competition, injuries, rotations, etc.
That's massive. That's like one seed versus eight seed massive. I think that a six game series is a moral victory for Cleveland. If they actually win the series, then LeBron pulls within striking distance of Jordan's throne.
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I have high expectations for the series. Given the talent level of both teams, and looking at their strengths and weaknesses, I feel pretty strongly it is going to be a hotly-contested 7-game series. There may be one game that's a blowout, if the Warriors get extremely hot from distance. But as long as that doesn't happen in a close-out game, I think it'll come down to the final shot in game 7, and who has it. Should be fun. I am looking forward to it (if it ever gets underway -- the long delay and all this downtime is stupid).
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I'm not sure I'm very interested in the finals. While I recognize it will be a fantastic matchup of two amazingly good teams, the fact that this was foreseeable since the start of the season has made me lose some interest. I was way more excited about the Spurs/Warriors series than this to be honest. And there's also the fact that the games start a little too late for me during weekdays.
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I will say this: the pressure is squarely on the shoulders of Kevin Durant.
Agreed. After the move he made, all eyes are squarely on him. And I may catch some flak for saying this, but: From watching him in playoffs past, I kind of feel like as talented as he is, he isn't a great "clutch" player under pressure. But that said, I think the environment he is in will help with that. Not that OKC were slouches, but I just don't feel like there was anyone to really take the pressure off of him and help him deal with it. Westbrook certainly commands the spotlight and takes some of the focus off of other players, but that isn't really the same thing. Golden State is a completely different environment, and I think the way they play and are coached will take some of the pressure off of him, or at least help him deal with it.
That said:
The Warriors have to win this series, and he has to play well.
??? What do you mean, "has to?" Or what? He'll be sad?
By all accounts, the Warriors should win this series, but the Cavs have the best player in basketball, are the better 3-point shooting team this year, and will be playing more loose and free (as a big underdog). I think GS will win it, but I won't be surprised by any result.
Not sure about the "loose and free" part. I actually wouldn't be surprised if they are feeling the pressure of being the champs and come out pretty tense and error-prone because of it. But otherwise, yeah, I agree. Should be a good series. I'm just bummed that I am going to miss game 1.
I'm not sure I'm very interested in the finals. While I recognize it will be a fantastic matchup of two amazingly good teams, the fact that this was foreseeable since the start of the season has made me lose some interest. I was way more excited about the Spurs/Warriors series than this to be honest. And there's also the fact that the games start a little too late for me during weekdays.
Interesting. Why is the fact that this series was forseeable a bummer for you? I'm having trouble understanding why that should be an issue.
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I'm not sure I'm very interested in the finals. While I recognize it will be a fantastic matchup of two amazingly good teams, the fact that this was foreseeable since the start of the season has made me lose some interest. I was way more excited about the Spurs/Warriors series than this to be honest. And there's also the fact that the games start a little too late for me during weekdays.
Interesting. Why is the fact that this series was forseeable a bummer for you? I'm having trouble understanding why that should be an issue.
I guess I'm disappointed that things turned out to be exactly as they were laid out and that bums me out. I was very eagerly expecting for a surprise here, maybe not that these teams were beaten but at the very least that someone would give them a run for their money and that didn't happen. That makes me realize that this will be the theme for at least 2 more years which again, bums me out and makes me lose interest in the NBA as a whole.
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I guess what I was trying to get at is, is it ONLY the predictability factor that bums you out, or is it that combined with the fact that it isn't teams you are all that interested in? I just don't get it if it is ONLY predictability. As long as it is a good matchup and teams that are fun to watch (and I believe this matchup meets both of those criteria), I don't see predictability as much of an issue. I'm not saying you shouldn't feel that way. Just talking through my own views on the subject.
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Yeah, I get that. Watching the warriors play is super fun, they move the ball around masterfully and play the kind of team game that I enjoy the most. Maybe it's a matter that I don't like where the league is right now. I've been following the league all year wide and watched tons of games, even in the playoffs but again, I just don't feel any thrill for what's coming. And you might be right, the fact that the Spurs aren't there might also be bumming me out a little more, the fact that I already feel satisfied having watched Manu play his last game might also be affecting me. So yeah, it's probably not just the predictability factor, but I think that's the biggest thing.
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Makes sense. Other than the fact that a prolonged WCC would have meant less rest for the Warriors, I wish they could have played San Antonio at full strength. It would have made for a great series. But selfishly, because Cleveland had such a cake-walk in the playoffs, I was happy to have the San Antonio series over early so Cleveland wouldn't get such a huge rest advantage.
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No Finals chatter, eh?
I feel like the finals should be over by now. This layoff has drained any interest I might have in it. Obviously I'm watching hockey, but I'm kind of onto baseball now.
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I think that a six game series is a moral victory for Cleveland. If they actually win the series, then LeBron pulls within striking distance of Jordan's throne.
I think most agree that James is already within distance of the throne, many of the dissenters being people who dislike James and will never give him credit no matter what.
No Finals chatter, eh?
I feel like the finals should be over by now. This layoff has drained any interest I might have in it. Obviously I'm watching hockey, but I'm kind of onto baseball now.
This long of a layoff is definitely stupid, but once the games begin, interest shall rise again. :tup :tup
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Basketball is my #4 sport anyway. I've really only watched the games because my 14 y/o is really into it. We've had a lot of fun watching together.
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That's cool. :hat
It's a distant number 3 for me now, behind hockey and football. Baseball has plummeted to where I am not even sure I can say it's number 4 anymore.
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I'm still a baseball guy. Hockey easily #1 though.
Football is a distant #3.
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The NBA Marketing team has been busy talking up this year's Finals, lol... they put it something like this is the only finals with the BEST winning percentages between the two teams leading up to Game 1 (GS 12-0, Cle 12-1), 3 MVPs (Curry, LBJ and KD), 7 All-star players and then something else I forgot, lol. In a way they ain't wrong, and I also feel bad for them for thinking up ways to talk up these Finals, when the playoffs have been more or less boring... :lol
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Well, here we go. Should be a fun series.
I really think the NBA and NHL should be done before Memorial Day, and shouldn't reconvene until after Labor Day. I get the business reasons behind extending everything, but it's just a turnoff as a fan.
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Taking Cleveland in 7 again. Here's hoping...
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I'd rather see Cavs in 6 so Cleveland gets a title win on their home court.
However, I think GS just has too much firepower.
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Dubs in 5... maybe... :lol
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Points in paint : Cavs 16 / Warriors 42 in the first half... and the Cavs keep leaving KD open... But I bet the Cavs will adjust and won't leave KD open in the second half as much. Klay must step up... Shooting 2 for 10 is crappy like Korver, lol.
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How loaded is GS? James is playing out of his mind...and the Cavs are down by 21. Crazy.
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The Dubs are loaded with KD... but I also think they make serious defensive changes compared to the last Finals... at least in game 1... they ALWAYS rotate 2 guys in the paint... if the first wave miss their assignment, there is always another guy filling in... forcing the Cavs to either make a TOUGH shot over two guys, or to pass it out to reset.
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The Warriors got every favorable call last night. It was ridiculous. If you factor in the ref influence, the score would have been much, much closer.
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The Warriors got every favorable call last night. It was ridiculous. If you factor in the ref influence, the score would have been much, much closer.
Or if LeBron didn't have what 8 or 9 turnovers? I think they will bounce back and it will be a tough game 2 Sunday.
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The Warriors got every favorable call last night. It was ridiculous. If you factor in the ref influence, the score would have been much, much closer.
Let's be serious. Golden St wasn't losing that game last night.
Or if LeBron didn't have what 8 or 9 turnovers?
LeBron had a terrific game last night. Without him, they lose by 40+.
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He has to be better than that to win the series. Well the whole team needs to. He's the reason they are there but he has to be godly for them to win.
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And that is an unfair standard to hold him, or anyone, to. He was godly last year and they still barely won. I am not sure it would be enough this year. GS is just too loaded.
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Thsts the price for being the best player in the league. You and I know that GS is stacked.
Some of us fans can hold him to that. He's been to 7 finals in a row for a reason. He's that great.
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Thsts the price for being the best player in the league. You and I know that GS is stacked.
Some of us fans can hold him to that. He's been to 7 finals in a row for a reason. He's that great.
Wait, so when you are in the best player, you have to play godly in every game and have your team win, or that means you get criticized? Seriously?
I cannot think of any NBA team in history that could beat this year's Warriors team 4 games out of 7. Not the '86 Celtics. Not the '96 Bulls. Not one.
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I'm saying he has to be God like to win this series. For me if they lose its not on him. But for them to win he can't have that many turnovers.
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I agree, but I think the Warriors defense is an underrated part of their game and why they are so good. It seemed like many of those turnovers came on plays where they collapsed on James driving to the hoop, and when he had to pass out of it (James is not the kind of player to force up a bad shot against a double team), they were ready for it and stole the passes.
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I don't believe this for a second.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nba/report-lakers-currently-plan-on-passing-on-lonzo-ball/ar-BBBUKvy?li=BBnbfcL
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Early Game 2 thoughts:
-The Warriors are getting some major home town cooking in regards to officiating
-No one on Cleveland besides James and Love is playing worth a shit
-The Warriors are insane shooters (duh :lol)
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I forgot game 2 starts @ 8... so it was already at the 6 mins mark when I started watching, so sad, lol!! :facepalm: :lol
Cannot say for the rest of the Cavs, but at least LBJ comes to play.. but as a whole their D still sucks
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This is one of the best games I've ever seen James play...and it might not matter.
I'm still waiting for Kyrie Irving to pull his head out of his ass tonight.
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I am An old fart. But love basketball. I consider the 86 Celtics, the 96 Bulls the greatest teams ever. Tonight we are witnessing maybey the greatest team ever. Bron can only do so much . This Warriors team are fuckin monsters. We are witnessing history. Durant and Curry may be the greatest tandem ever. Scary good. Few things blow me away. Tonites game did.
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The Dubs simply have way too much fire power than the Cavs, and they also play better than decent D on the other end; I wouldn't be surprised the Dubs sweeping the Cavs this year, despite another superman effort by LBJ.
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I turned it off at the end of the 3rd. Unless you are a Warriors fan, what is the point in watching?
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I turned it off at the end of the 3rd. Unless you are a Warriors fan, what is the point in watching?
...errr... maybe because I wanted to witness LBJ losing in another Finals? :lol
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I turned it off at the end of the 3rd. Unless you are a Warriors fan, what is the point in watching?
...errr... maybe because I wanted to witness LBJ losing in another Finals? :lol
Enjoy?
To knowledgeable basketball fans, all this finals will do is enhance LBJ's legacy, not hurt it.
I know, I know, "Another finals loss," screams the Twitter universe. But that is a lazy and short-sighted way of looking at it, which is far too commonplace in today's world where all people care about are hot takes.
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The Dubs simply have way too much fire power than the Cavs, and they also play better than decent D on the other end; I wouldn't be surprised the Dubs sweeping the Cavs this year, despite another superman effort by LBJ.
Absolutely agree LBJ iss incredible, Love played well.. Dubs are just monsters. Fuck sweep is coming. Clay got over his funk. This Dub team will go down As the greatest ever
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Enjoy?
To knowledgeable basketball fans, all this finals will do is enhance LBJ's legacy, not hurt it.
I know, I know, "Another finals loss," screams the Twitter universe. But that is a lazy and short-sighted way of looking at it, which is far too commonplace in today's world where all people care about are hot takes.
Am I enjoying it? I can't say... but let's just say with the Dubs going 14-0 thus far, I actually would love to see them make history by going 16-0 in these playoffs.
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Am I enjoying it? I can't say... but let's just say with the Dubs going 14-0 thus far, I actually would love to see them make history by going 16-0 in these playoffs.
It'll still have that asterisk because of the dirty play that enabled them to steal Game 1 against the Spurs, but they stacked the deck by recruiting Durant after winning 73 games last year, so this was pretty inevitable.
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It'll still have that asterisk because of the dirty play that enabled them to steal Game 1 against the Spurs, but they stacked the deck by recruiting Durant after winning 73 games last year, so this was pretty inevitable.
The Spurs' 1999 title has an asterisk next to it too :lol
Seriously, asterisk or not, you just don't go 16-0 (if the Dubs accomplish it) by accident, nor I don't think the Cavs would lay down and let them Dubs walk all over them. I don't expect guys like Irving, K-Love or Thompson would suddenly wake up and play well collectively, but I bet games 3 & 4 will be much closer regardless.
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I dont totally agree with Durants decision. But who am I to judge, That said. They have a Patriot dynasty for the next few years.
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Watching last night's game, I had a couple of recurring thoughts:
1) The Warriors are amazing. Their fans deserve a team like this after so many tough years, during which they were still some of the best fans in the league. Golden State's coaching and front office are a level above most other teams'. Durant clearly made the right decision going there.
2) From my perspective, Durant going to the Warriors is the most depressing to happen to the league in a long time. They are so good that they've rendered other teams completely helpless. The Cavaliers, while deeply flawed, are really good, but they look like a JV team out there. LeBron goes for 29/11/14, and it's like, "Not good enough. He needed 40/15/20 for them to even have a chance." :lol
Who knows what will happen in the years to come? Maybe age hits Golden State hard and they become beatable sooner rather than later. The most likely outcome, however, is at least a couple more years of dominance.
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Watching last night's game, I had a couple of recurring thoughts:
1) The Warriors are amazing. Their fans deserve a team like this after so many tough years, during which they were still some of the best fans in the league. Golden State's coaching and front office are a level above most other teams'. Durant clearly made the right decision going there.
2) From my perspective, Durant going to the Warriors is the most depressing to happen to the league in a long time. They are so good that they've rendered other teams completely helpless. The Cavaliers, while deeply flawed, are really good, but they look like a JV team out there. LeBron goes for 29/11/14, and it's like, "Not good enough. He needed 40/15/20 for them to even have a chance." :lol
Who knows what will happen in the years to come? Maybe age hits Golden State hard and they become beatable sooner rather than later. The most likely outcome, however, is at least a couple more years of dominance.
Like you've just said, their front office will find a way to sign great players... or taking a cue from LBJ, they will find ways to form a new super team, lol! :lol
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I've watched both "games." Golden State is a class above Cleveland, and Cleveland is REALLY, REALLY good. It's unbelievable. I still think Cleveland will win a couple, but they have a decision to make. They are getting run out of the gym trying to play the style of ball GS does. If I were them, I'd start to get a little brash and revert to some harder fouls and defense. Not playing dirty, but coping an attitude and shoving guys, getting them pissed off and rattled. It's the only way they have a shot, IMO.
Channel the Pistons and Knicks from back in the day, slow the game way down, pound on KD and Steph, make Klay beat you, and deliver punishing shots anytime a GS player goes into the paint. They have to limit GS possessions and send a message. I fully expect Cleveland to do something like this next game.
Ty Lue is young, but he was a heady player, and is a good coach. He'll put something together. It'll be up to the Cavs to stop trying to be GS and be something different. If they do, and it rattles GS, they can get back into the series. But if the Cavs let Game 3 go, might as well just play H-O-R-S-E in game 4, because it will be over. The Cavs need to play old school.
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I have no idea what they are going to try to do or what they can do. Other teams have tried doing what was suggested above. It tends to not really work. I'm not sure anything the Cavs can bring will change that.
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I have no idea what they are going to try to do or what they can do. Other teams have tried doing what was suggested above. It tends to not really work. I'm not sure anything the Cavs can bring will change that.
You're right. But those "other teams" are not nearly as good as Cleveland is. I fully expect GS to win this. But I also don't expect a team like Cleveland to roll over and die. They'll make it a series. I have no love for the Cavs, and while I appreciate how good he is, I'm no fan of Lebron. So I am "rooting" for GS in this matchup. But honestly, I am sick of the Warriors myself, so I just want a really competitive series. And so far, the right team is winning, but it is lame as hell (for me).
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Not that I'm against a series being competitive, but I'm with Azyiu in that I would like to see them get a complete playoffs sweep. And I would very much like the Cavs to be on the receiving end of the culmination of that sweep. :lol
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I dont totally agree with Durants decision.
I have no issue at all with his decision to go there. He was a free agent and he had the right to sign wherever he wanted. And he looks so much happier playing with the Warriors than he did in OKC playing with that fraud of an MVP.
Watching these finals and seeing how great James, Curry and Durant all are makes it even funnier that Harden and Westbrook were considered the top two candidates for MVP. What a laugh.
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The Spurs' 1999 title has an asterisk next to it too :lol
No it doesn't. Just because Phil Jackson thinks it should doesn't mean that Championship has it.
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The Spurs' 1999 title has an asterisk next to it too :lol
No it doesn't. Just because Phil Jackson thinks it should doesn't mean that Championship has it.
Was just responding to KevShmev comment above, lol :lol
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I've watched both "games." Golden State is a class above Cleveland, and Cleveland is REALLY, REALLY good. It's unbelievable. I still think Cleveland will win a couple, but they have a decision to make. They are getting run out of the gym trying to play the style of ball GS does. If I were them, I'd start to get a little brash and revert to some harder fouls and defense. Not playing dirty, but coping an attitude and shoving guys, getting them pissed off and rattled. It's the only way they have a shot, IMO.
Channel the Pistons and Knicks from back in the day, slow the game way down, pound on KD and Steph, make Klay beat you, and deliver punishing shots anytime a GS player goes into the paint. They have to limit GS possessions and send a message. I fully expect Cleveland to do something like this next game.
Ty Lue is young, but he was a heady player, and is a good coach. He'll put something together. It'll be up to the Cavs to stop trying to be GS and be something different. If they do, and it rattles GS, they can get back into the series. But if the Cavs let Game 3 go, might as well just play H-O-R-S-E in game 4, because it will be over. The Cavs need to play old school.
I actually think Cleveland needs to work on their offense rather than their defense, get gsw to run through screens, get those legs tired on defense. I haven't watched all the games but from what I've seen Cleveland is running mostly 1 on 1, driving through the lane and trying to hit the open guy. You can still do that but moving the ball around for a 10 seconds, trying to get switches and more favorable matchups.
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I've watched both "games." Golden State is a class above Cleveland, and Cleveland is REALLY, REALLY good. It's unbelievable. I still think Cleveland will win a couple, but they have a decision to make. They are getting run out of the gym trying to play the style of ball GS does. If I were them, I'd start to get a little brash and revert to some harder fouls and defense. Not playing dirty, but coping an attitude and shoving guys, getting them pissed off and rattled. It's the only way they have a shot, IMO.
Channel the Pistons and Knicks from back in the day, slow the game way down, pound on KD and Steph, make Klay beat you, and deliver punishing shots anytime a GS player goes into the paint. They have to limit GS possessions and send a message. I fully expect Cleveland to do something like this next game.
Ty Lue is young, but he was a heady player, and is a good coach. He'll put something together. It'll be up to the Cavs to stop trying to be GS and be something different. If they do, and it rattles GS, they can get back into the series. But if the Cavs let Game 3 go, might as well just play H-O-R-S-E in game 4, because it will be over. The Cavs need to play old school.
I actually think Cleveland needs to work on their offense rather than their defense, get gsw to run through screens, get those legs tired on defense. I haven't watched all the games but from what I've seen Cleveland is running mostly 1 on 1, driving through the lane and trying to hit the open guy. You can still do that but moving the ball around for a 10 seconds, trying to get switches and more favorable matchups.
As much as I'm a defence honk, you are right. For one, GSW can only be moderately slowed down. Especially with KD being added since last year's finals. But I think CLE is taking way too many dumb shots. I have watched chunks of game 1 and 2, and I just siting James here; the commentators made a point of his in the paint points in a game's first half. Then in the second half, I'm watching threes being chucked to meet GSW just icing a bunch of threes.
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The value and greatness of James was never more apparent than it was just now. He plays like a beast for the first 10 and change of the 1st quarter and they are leading by 2. Then he goes to the bench for a breather at the end of the quarter and GS rips off 10 straight. These would be 40-point blowouts without James.
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The Cavs played MUCH better at home in the first half, but they still don't close each qtr as well as they should be... thanks to Zaza's idiotic play toward the end of the 2nd qtr, or else the Cavs could've been down by 10 or 11pts at the half.
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That finger roll layup was very cool to see.
James can't do it alone. He's been great tonight and it might not be enough.
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James can't do it alone. He's been great tonight and it might not be enough.
I'm getting a sense of deja vu.
He was godly last year and they still barely won. I am not sure it would be enough this year. GS is just too loaded.
LeBron goes for 29/11/14, and it's like, "Not good enough. He needed 40/15/20 for them to even have a chance." :lol
Seems to be a recurring theme.
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Boom.
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KD!!! I think he just locked up the Finals MVP award
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James and Irving were mostly dynamite, but it's hard to win when the rest of your team stinks up the joint. Kevin Love missing that shot 4 inches from the basket with just over two to go was the worst. If he makes that, they are up 8. Alas, this will be a fitting end to the worst playoffs ever.
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James and Irving were mostly dynamite, but it's hard to win when the rest of your team stinks up the joint. Kevin Love missing that shot 4 inches from the basket with just over two to go was the worst. If he makes that, they are up 8. Alas, this will be a fitting end to the worst playoffs ever.
As a whole I thought the Cavs stepped up, but their problem is they couldn't close out quarters. As seen in Game 3, they kept giving up points in the final minute or so in each qtr, except for the end of 3rd qtr. You cannot give the Dubs even the slightest of opportunity to score, if you intend to beat them.
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As a Seattleite, I am all for Durant ditching that shit hole OKC for a title and leaving them with nothing.
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I keep forgetting that I should resent OKC for them trying to steal the Hornets post-Katrina.
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A sweep on Friday could "cost" the Warriors roughly $22M.
https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/19565518/nba-playoffs-warriors-sweep-bottom-line-not-look-wonderful
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James and Irving were mostly dynamite, but it's hard to win when the rest of your team stinks up the joint. Kevin Love missing that shot 4 inches from the basket with just over two to go was the worst. If he makes that, they are up 8. Alas, this will be a fitting end to the worst playoffs ever.
Yes, the rest of the team isn't performing as well as they should but as I said before I think this is a matter of Cleveland not playing enough as a team. I read a statistic yesterday that said that 55% of the shots lebron is taking during the finals are in possessions where there were no passes made, compared to 27% during the first 3 rounds.
During the season they averaged 22.7 assists per game, during the finals they've had 15 in game 1, 27 in game 2 (lebron had 14) and 17 in game 3.
There are some teams you can beat playing hero-ball, but GSW is not one of those.
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KD!!! I think he just locked up the Finals MVP award
I don't see it going any other way. But for all the talk about him, which is completely justified, Klay Thompson was pretty spectacular too. His point total was just behind Durant's by a single point, and the guy was everywhere on defense. Despite Kyrie Irving's numbers, Thompson was playing defense as well as you can possibly play defense. Irving was just shooting out of his mind on some incredibly high-difficulty contested shots. If those shots are going to fall, there's just nothing any defender can do. To see that happen and to see Thompson keep after it possession after possession was amazing.
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Thompson's defense has been amazing. Really, the whole team's defense is a sight to behold. I also feel like Curry deserves a special mention for the way he's been playing. The guy is one of the more underappreciated players I can remember. Just a week or two ago, every talk show was debating whether or not he's better than Irving. That's a pretty ridiculous question.
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Thompson's defense has been amazing. Really, the whole team's defense is a sight to behold. I also feel like Curry deserves a special mention for the way he's been playing. The guy is one of the more underappreciated players I can remember. Just a week or two ago, every talk show was debating whether or not he's better than Irving. That's a pretty ridiculous question.
Curry is absolutely an elite defender. I think he just doesn't get the credit he deserves in that regard because (1) he is "small" by NBA standards, and (2) he is one man on a team of elite defenders. Yeah, he'll lost a 1-on-1 matchup against LeBron 9 times out of 10. But that fact doesn't do justice to what he brings on the defensive side of the ball.
Going back to Klay, there were so many moments last night when I kept feeling like they were letting up on defense. But then I would see the replays and realize that they were playing outstanding defense, but Kyrie and LeBron were just out of their minds in terms of making contested, sick difficulty level shots. And IMO, their defense is absolutely a key reason they won the game last night. The Cavs cooled off because the Warriors' defense had them exhausted by the end of the 4th.
EDIT: Just read an article that I thought has some perfect insight:
Bottom line: Cleveland’s screwed. The Cavs stole a title last year – and they should be thrilled they did. Because Cleveland is on a path that would make the Buffalo Bills blush. They are good enough to roll through the East for the next few seasons. But they are nowhere near good enough to beat the behemoth coming out of the West.
What’s scarier: Golden State could get better. The core of the team – those four 20-somethings just entering the prime of their careers – aren’t going anywhere. The skill level of Durant, Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green is matched by an awareness of what it is they are a part of.
Agreed on both counts.
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The whole league is screwed. Props to the Warriors - they deserve their success - but these next couple of seasons could be unbearable for anyone not living in the Bay Area. :lol
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To me, the four best players in the league are obviously James, Durant, Curry and Leonard, and I really think you could make a strong argument for Klay Thompson being the 5th best.
Great shooter.
Great defender.
Great team guy.
Unselfish player.
What more can you ask for?
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To sum up what you guys have said about the Warriors, which I agreed for the most parts, I think it is safe to say they are the modern version of the Showtime Lakers. They both play with tremendous flair, very fun to watch, can score a ton; and both are under-rated defensively. The Cavs, or specially LBJ and Kyrie played GREAT in Game 3, there is no question about it. If they were facing any other teams, that team would have lost by at least 20 plus points. This is how great these Warriors are this year, especially with KD!
That being said, LBJ simply ran out of gas and CHOKED in the final minutes of Game 3. His misses in the final 2 minutes, and then his defensive mental lapse against KD (allowing him to make a gutsy 3 to take the lead for good) simply helped stop all GOAT discussion right there!
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To me, the four best players in the league are obviously James, Durant, Curry and Leonard, and I really think you could make a strong argument for Klay Thompson being the 5th best.
Great shooter.
Great defender.
Great team guy.
Unselfish player.
What more can you ask for?
No argument from me on this.
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To sum up what you guys have said about the Warriors, which I agreed for the most parts, I think it is safe to say they are the modern version of the Showtime Lakers. They both play with tremendous flair, very fun to watch, can score a ton; and both are under-rated defensively. The Cavs, or specially LBJ and Kyrie played GREAT in Game 3, there is no question about it. If they were facing any other teams, that team would have lost by at least 20 plus points. This is how great these Warriors are this year, especially with KD!
That being said, LBJ simply ran out of gas and CHOKED in the final minutes of Game 3. His misses in the final 2 minutes, and then his defensive mental lapse against KD (allowing him to make a gutsy 3 to take the lead for good) simply helped stop all GOAT discussion right there!
Not really. I know people have this odd memory of the past, like Jordan, Magic, etc. never didn't totally come through in the clutch, but it's crap. Only in the current world we live in would a guy who had 39-11-9 be accused of choking. :lol :lol
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To sum up what you guys have said about the Warriors, which I agreed for the most parts, I think it is safe to say they are the modern version of the Showtime Lakers. They both play with tremendous flair, very fun to watch, can score a ton; and both are under-rated defensively. The Cavs, or specially LBJ and Kyrie played GREAT in Game 3, there is no question about it. If they were facing any other teams, that team would have lost by at least 20 plus points. This is how great these Warriors are this year, especially with KD!
That being said, LBJ simply ran out of gas and CHOKED in the final minutes of Game 3. His misses in the final 2 minutes, and then his defensive mental lapse against KD (allowing him to make a gutsy 3 to take the lead for good) simply helped stop all GOAT discussion right there!
Not really. I know people have this odd memory of the past, like Jordan, Magic, etc. never didn't totally come through in the clutch, but it's crap. Only in the current world we live in would a guy who had 39-11-9 be accused of choking. :lol :lol
Like I said earlier in my post, LBJ played GREAT in Game 3... by choking, I mean his ability and his mental toughest when it comes to closing moments of a tight game. For any player in his level, it doesn't matter how he started the game, it is how he closed it. That last defensive lapse on KD was pretty bad for a player at his level. I know it sounds "unfair", but he is one of the top players in league history, and every move he makes is analyzed under a microscope. Is it fair? Maybe not entirely, but IMO it is in a way how we talking heads separate greatest players among themselves.
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To sum up what you guys have said about the Warriors, which I agreed for the most parts, I think it is safe to say they are the modern version of the Showtime Lakers. They both play with tremendous flair, very fun to watch, can score a ton; and both are under-rated defensively. The Cavs, or specially LBJ and Kyrie played GREAT in Game 3, there is no question about it. If they were facing any other teams, that team would have lost by at least 20 plus points. This is how great these Warriors are this year, especially with KD!
That being said, LBJ simply ran out of gas and CHOKED in the final minutes of Game 3. His misses in the final 2 minutes, and then his defensive mental lapse against KD (allowing him to make a gutsy 3 to take the lead for good) simply helped stop all GOAT discussion right there!
Not really. I know people have this odd memory of the past, like Jordan, Magic, etc. never didn't totally come through in the clutch, but it's crap. Only in the current world we live in would a guy who had 39-11-9 be accused of choking. :lol :lol
Like I said earlier in my post, LBJ played GREAT in Game 3... by choking, I mean his ability and his mental toughest when it comes to closing moments of a tight game. For any player in his level, it doesn't matter how he started the game, it is how he closed it. That last defensive lapse on KD was pretty bad for a player at his level. I know it sounds "unfair", but he is one of the top players in league history, and every move he makes is analyzed under a microscope. Is it fair? Maybe not entirely, but IMO it is in a way how we talking heads separate greatest players among themselves.
Magic Johnson CHOKED at the end of Game 7 in the 1984 Finals. Throw him out of any discussion of all-time great players.
Tim Duncan missed a shot from 3 feet out in the last minute of a tight Game 7 against the Heat in 2013. My God, what a CHOKER.
Michael Jordan missed a potential game-winning shot at the end of a tight playoff game against Indiana in 1998. So much for being the GOAT, because the true greats always come through at the end of games, right?
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Sarcasm aside, have you already forgotten last year's Finals? That was arguably the greatest performance in Finals HISTORY. I swear, it's like some people have no memory. Or they just love being haters.
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Sarcasm aside, have you already forgotten last year's Finals? That was arguably the greatest performance in Finals HISTORY. I swear, it's like some people have no memory. Or they just love being haters.
No. though LBJ is no longer one of my fav players for many reasons, I do not "hate" him per se. He IS still a great player, and yes, last year's Finals win coming from 1-3 is nothing short of epic.
But, for me why he isn't THE GOAT (he is among the greatest, but will never be THE one, that is my entire argument) is his killer instinct. Like in Game 3, he ran out of gas at the end and lets Kyrie take over. This is part of the reason why people don't consider him THE GOAT. He just doesn't have that killer instinct it seems.
And how about his Game 3 shooting to illustrate my view? I do not have that stats in front of me now, but it goes something like he shot better than 70% in both 1st and the 2nd qtrs, but it dropped to the mid 30% in the 3rd qtr and then only 26% in the 4th qtr. Ok, that may have contributed by the Dubs' defense, but the truth is he shot more mid to long range attempts in the second half, especially in the 4th qtr tells me either he couldn't attack the hoop? Or he just wasn't able to keep attacking? In Magic, TD, MJ or even Kobe's cases, even when they were tired, they were still able to display some sense of mental toughness, whether on the offensive ends or on the defensive ends. Sadly last night LBJ just couldn't deliver on either end in the final 3:10 or so.
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All your post does is demonstrate that James is at worst 1b to Jordan's 1a. You are basically admitting that he is so awesome that he could have played better in a game in which a) he had 39-11-9, and b) was +7 in 46 minutes of play (while the team was -12 in the 2 minutes he didn't play). That is how high the standard is for him. His critics are actually complimenting him when they nit pick the two or three things they think he did wrong/could have done better. By all means, keep it up. :tup :tup
Oh, and these awesome (but apparently not awesome enough) performances are against what will probably go down as the best team ever. The Warriors are about to complete possibly the greatest 3-season run in modern NBA history, yet they will not be celebrating a 3-peat because of one man: LeBron James.
And like I tell my older brother (he is a James hater), I am not even that big a fan of James, but his critics are so ridiculously over the top and silly with their petty criticisms that countering them makes me look like a fanboy. Oh well.
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All your post does is demonstrate that James is at worst 1b to Jordan's 1a. You are basically admitting that he is so awesome that he could have played better in a game in which a) he had 39-11-9, and b) was +7 in 46 minutes of play (while the team was -12 in the 2 minutes he didn't play). That is how high the standard is for him. His critics are actually complimenting him when they nit pick the two or three things they think he did wrong/could have done better. By all means, keep it up. :tup :tup
Oh, and these awesome (but apparently not awesome enough) performances are against what will probably go down as the best team ever.
Thanks for that sarcasm.
Like I said in my original post, he played GREAT in game 3. Am I nitpicking him? Yes, maybe, but don't we we all hold great players to that ridiculously high standard in most cases? In the end, I am not even trying to trash him or anything.
Anyway, Lue is also responsible for better manage his minutes. Playing him 39 minutes (or was it 46 mins? :justjen ) is a touch too many for anyone, although I understand the Cavs were like -10 when he was on the bench.
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That was not sarcasm that time; that was the God's honest truth. Most critics of James really are complimenting him when they nit pick him (by holding him to an absurdly high standard, they are admitting his greatness).
Holding someone to a high standard is one thing; expecting perfection is another.
People still ripping him for passing instead of shooting in certain situations, pardon my language, are freaking dumbasses. Some of the biggest shots in Finals history have been made by role players, who had the ball passed to them by stars. Thinking the biggest star should always take the shot in the big moment no matter what is the kind of meathead mentality that makes people love chuckers like Russell Westbrook.
Lue is getting outcoached, yes, but he has no choice but to play James as much as he is. They get obliterated when is not out there every time. I think he would have been smart to take some of his timeouts down the stretch last night to give James and Irving some rest on the bench instead of saving them all for the last minute. Space them out and they would have been fresher. The pace of those games and playing the minutes James is would wear anyone out.
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That was not sarcasm that time; that was the God's honest truth. Most critics of James really are complimenting him when they nit pick him (by holding him to an absurdly high standard, they are admitting his greatness).
Holding someone to a high standard is one thing; expecting perfection is another.
Lue is getting outcoached, yes, but he has no choice but to play James as much as he is. They get obliterated when is not out there every time. I think he would have been smart to take some of his timeouts down the stretch last night to give James and Irving some rest on the bench instead of saving them all for the last minute. Space them out and they would have been fresher. The pace of those games and playing the minutes James is would wear anyone out.
Sorry dude, guess I took it the wrong way a little back there...
Another thing I'd like to nitpick besides the Cavs failing to close out quarater (with or without LBJ on the court) is Kyrie's ball handling. He played great in Game 3, but some of his "great" shots were actually circus shots, and I don't think he can make half of those again. He has to, or the Cavs have to pass the ball around to create open spaces. Most of the night he was just impatient with the ball, especially late in the ball. I thought he held onto the ball way too long and allowing the Dubs to trap and force him to one side of the court. Oh well... still, I'd love to witness history as it happens, and I honestly (no hating involved) wish to see the Dubs go 16-0 in the playoffs with a sweep tomorrow! :hefdaddy
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I am a card-carrying LeBron "hater." But I don't take anything away from his ability. And I don't think it is fair to say he "choked" at the end of game 3. He played a solid game. That pass to Korver was a high percentage shot, and the Warriors were set up to where it likely looked to him like they were going to close and triple team him if he finished the drive and didn't kick. Hard to criticize a decision made in the moment like that when we can Monday morning QB it to death. I also think criticizing him for his D on Durant is unfair. Durant was driving, so LeBron was on his heels preparing to back up. Add to that the fact that he played all but less than 2 minutes or so of that game and was exhausted (I don't care that he says otherwise; you could see it on his face). In the split second that Durant pulled up and shot, LeBron simply did not have time to change his balance and contest the shot. It happened just that quick. I don't know that if roles were reversed, Klay Thompson or Draymond Green defend that play any better at that stage in the game. Maybe if he wasn't as tired, he might not have been as far back on his heels and may have reacted faster. But still, it was a fraction of a second to react. He gambled that Durant was going to drive, and he simply gambled wrong. It happens. Again, I don't think it's fair to criticize him for that.
Along similar lines, I don't buy into Steven A.'s nonsense that if they get swept, it is a black mark on his legacy and he cannot be considered GOAT. Nonsense. Whether he ultimately is or isn't doesn't depend on one series.
So, yeah, get off the man's back.
That said, I hope they get swept in humiliating fashion tomorrow night. :lol
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(https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/778012625858768897/HE2EmvNo.jpg)
(https://foxsports-wordpress-www-prsupports-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/sites/2/2017/05/Nick-Wright-Headshot-727x727-480x480.jpg)
Pretty sure this sums up this thread right now. :P
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That said, I hope they get swept in humiliating fashion tomorrow night. :lol
I wouldn't mind that at all. :biggrin:
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I think that basketball is a really complicated sport, but people try to make it simple so that they can enjoy it more. The sad truth is that it is possible for the best player (James) to get crushed by a superior team. While unlikely, it's also possible for the better team (2016 Golden State) to lose. Many people, when confronted with these realities, are like, "Then why am I even watching?" :lol
James' Game 3 is a prime example of how complicated this stuff gets. The way that he played through the game's first 45 minutes was enough to blow out most of the teams in the league. Obviously not the Warriors and maybe not San Antonio, but that's about it. He didn't play well during the last three minutes, but he was also on the brink of physical exhaustion.
When Stephen A Smith says that James can't be considered the greatest of all-time because he's been swept a couple of times in the Finals, he's grossly oversimplifying things. Jordan was also swept a couple of times, if I remember correctly. Now, Stephen A might counter that those sweeps occurred early in Jordan's career and not in the Finals. OK, but the Warriors might be the greatest team of all-time, so isn't a sweep understandable? And, frankly, shouldn't we be focusing more on James' performance than the outcome of a team game?
I find it really ironic that sports have a more objective quality than anything else that is widely discussed in the culture - film, music, politics, etc. - yet people somehow find a way to make the conversation about sports the dumbest of them all. :sadpanda:
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Great post. But as to the last point, yey, they have to sell news, right? If they can't make a story, there's nothing to talk about, and they are afraid ESPN.com will lost hits and ESPN will lose money. But heck, we've been dumbing things down to the lowest common denominator since people have existed, so it shouldn't be surprising. :lol
Anyhow, it'll be interesting to see whether the Cavs fold or put up a fight. I honestly have no idea which to expect.
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So this story came out of Bleach Report. Reportedly several Cavs players are "highly agitated" by Curry's squat right after KD made that lead changing 3... I don't get it, but why is that squat offensive? :justjen
https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2714680-cavaliers-players-reportedly-highly-agitated-over-stephen-currys-game-3-squat
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So this story came out of Bleach Report. Reportedly several Cavs players are "highly agitated" by Curry's squat right after KD made that lead changing 3... I don't get it, but why is that squat offensive? :justjen
https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2714680-cavaliers-players-reportedly-highly-agitated-over-stephen-currys-game-3-squat
Anything to stir up a controversy. :lol
#fakenews
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There was an article that came out a few months back about how a lot of high-profile NBA players don't like Curry. Whether it's his demeanor, his rapid rise to fame, whatever... I find this interesting, because living in North Carolina, I've spoken with a lot of people who knew Steph growing up, and I've never heard anyone say a bad word about him.
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Regarding Jordan vs. Lebron or any of that -- different eras, different ways to play the game.
Here's the thing though -- if you watched Jordan, he was able to play three different positions on the court. PG, SG, SF. And he did, regularly.
James can play all FIVE.
However, Jordan is clearly the better defender, in an era where defense was prominent. In addition, Jordan was a better pure scorer, worked himself into a better shooter (by the end he was deadly). James is not a reliable shooter, and he's not a pure scorer. Jordan was also a GREAT passer. But he preferred to score. In fact, he was a better passer, IMO, than James.
James is bigger, and because he can play all five positions in today's NBA (back if he played then, he couldn't be a center), he's a better rebounder than Jordan.
There's no denying just how great Lebron James is. He is an all-time, top-10, perhaps top-5 player in NBA history. Of that there is absolutely no doubt.
But he's not near Jordan...in the slightest. James' numbers may get high, but that's going to be because of longevity. James is going to play at a high level for at least another five, six years. He's conditioned himself to do that. And I firmly believe he'll win another couple of titles -- just not with Cleveland, and not as the primary option.
But make no mistake -- King James is one of the most talented players to ever step foot on an NBA court, and is an all-time great. But the comparisons to Jordan need to stop. The comparisons to Magic need to stop. James is who he is, for his era. In his era, he's the best. But once you stack him alongside the guys that transcended the game, you see he's not quite there. Even James himself knows it. He's trying to get the numbers and rings to make himself feel like he did all that. But he still has a way to go.
For my money:
Jordan
Wilt (most dominant)
Magic
Dr. J
Shaq
Bird
Kobe
James
Gervin
Baylor
>>>>That's obviously my top-10, and is completely subjective. James is in there at #8, and still has a lot to go in his career. If he had a great finish after this season, I could see him getting up to #4, which is, pretty damn impressive.
Anyway, James is incredible. But he's not quite near the top of the mountain. Even if the Cavs win tonight, they aren't coming back from 3-0. The Warriors are almost toying with them. Durant -- Durant has a long way to go, to get to James' level. Durant hasn't won a thing, and I think really needs to come up in big moments to be near Lebron.
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Great post. I personally think that you're underrating James, but like you said, it's all fun and subjective. I've never taken the time to rank the best players, but I wouldn't have him any lower than third. His combination of statistical production, individual accomplishments, and longevity is almost unheard of.
On a side note, I just realized that I've posted like ten times today. I need a short break. :lol
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Magic shouldn't be compared to James; James has already blown by him. The only thing in Magic's favor at this point is rings (all of which he needed Kareem to get). James is a better scorer, passer (better than MJ, too), defender and rebounder. Magic wasn't even the best player of his era; Bird was.
Comparisons to Jordan are odd since they are such different players.
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More fake news!
https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nba/report-lonzo-ball-underwhelms-lakers-during-workout/ar-BBCnqnF?li=BBnb7Kz&ocid=edgsp
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Yes Magic especially needed Kareem to be hurt during the 1980 finals so he could start at center as a rookie. Laker haters gonna hate.
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If the Warriors sweep, Klay Thompson is prepared to buy toasters for the team: https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/other/thompson-has-great-gift-for-warriors-if-they-sweep-cavs/ar-BBBZsEZ?ocid=edgsp
:sosayweall:
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Magic shouldn't be compared to James; James has already blown by him. The only thing in Magic's favor at this point is rings (all of which he needed Kareem to get). James is a better scorer, passer (better than MJ, too), defender and rebounder. Magic wasn't even the best player of his era; Bird was.
Comparisons to Jordan are odd since they are such different players.
James is not a better passer than Magic, no one is a better passer than Magic. James might be better at driving and kicking the ball out, I will give you that, Magic's awareness of where his team mates were and his skill to deliver them the ball is beyond compare to me.
More fake news!
https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nba/report-lonzo-ball-underwhelms-lakers-during-workout/ar-BBCnqnF?li=BBnb7Kz&ocid=edgsp
I don't see the need for the Lakers to make everyone else believe that they're not interested in Lonzo. If you wanted to disorient other teams, wouldn't you say you're super interested in one guy just to make other teams looks elsewhere and then snatch someone no one was expecting?
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Magic shouldn't be compared to James; James has already blown by him. The only thing in Magic's favor at this point is rings (all of which he needed Kareem to get). James is a better scorer, passer (better than MJ, too), defender and rebounder. Magic wasn't even the best player of his era; Bird was.
Comparisons to Jordan are odd since they are such different players.
James is not a better passer than Magic, no one is a better passer than Magic. James might be better at driving and kicking the ball out, I will give you that, Magic's awareness of where his team mates were and his skill to deliver them the ball is beyond compare to me.
Nailed it.
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Yes Magic especially needed Kareem to be hurt during the 1980 finals so he could start at center as a rookie. Laker haters gonna hate.
Huh? My opinion has nothing to do with me not being a Laker fan.
Also, Kareem only missed Game 6 of the '80 Finals, and he was far and away their best player for games 1-5. Are we really going to pretend that Magic didn't need Kareem to win that title (much less four others), just because of one game?
Magic shouldn't be compared to James; James has already blown by him. The only thing in Magic's favor at this point is rings (all of which he needed Kareem to get). James is a better scorer, passer (better than MJ, too), defender and rebounder. Magic wasn't even the best player of his era; Bird was.
Comparisons to Jordan are odd since they are such different players.
James is not a better passer than Magic, no one is a better passer than Magic. James might be better at driving and kicking the ball out, I will give you that, Magic's awareness of where his team mates were and his skill to deliver them the ball is beyond compare to me.
I think it would be fair to say that Magic and James are 1a and 1b, no? Regardless of who we think is better. They are definitely the two best passers I've ever seen. Whoever's in 3rd is a very distant 3rd.
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WHAT??? Sorry Kev, I can name a few better passers than LeBron other than Magic
Steve Nash
John Stockton
Jason Kidd
Gary Payton
Isiah Thomas (Not IT4)
Tim Hardaway
Oscar Robertson
Manu Ginobli
Not in any particular order
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EedKXdMzm5o
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvPbH5DDqpk&t
Yeah no to all of those players being better passers than LeBron :lol
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It's not really and equal comparison to make regarding the passing ability of players like MJ, LBJ and Magic to the likes of Stockton, Nash and Kidd. The former were all around great players, and GOAT Top 10 or 5. The latter were playmaking/passing specialists.
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Warriors are getting JOBBED by the refs. I have never seen anything like this in my life. This is just disgusting.
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Looks like no sweep is allowed at the Q...
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Disappointing this Cleveland couldn't have shown up earlier also could have had near 60 points in the 1st QT if they made FT's.
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Looks like no sweep is allowed at the Q...
This lead isn't safe.
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Looks like no sweep is allowed at the Q...
On the one hand, Cleveland is being smart and going at the Warriors and making the refs blow the whistle on mostly easy calls.
On the other hand, they shouldn't be doing quick pass and shoots with James out of the game. Drain the shot clock down a bit and slow the game down until he is back in.
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Warriors are getting JOBBED by the refs. I have never seen anything like this in my life. This is just disgusting.
So jobbed that Durant escapes a Double T with some fool on the Cavs' bench.
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My goodness, Irving and Love are knocking EVERYTHING down, no matter how contested. Just, wow. Those guys are playing out of their minds. Gotta give credit for them coming out and playing hard.
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What a complete officiating debacle this game has become. So, they call two T's on Green. Then they retroactively take one back and say the first half one was on Kerr. Man, these two teams are doing something historic with all this scoring, and the refs are making a complete mockery of the game.
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Yep, whether you are a Cavs fan or a Warriors fan, the officiating was a disaster.
In other news, 3 on 3 basketball officially an Olympic sport. Somewhere AI is thinking about a comeback? Lol! :lol
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Fortunately, the officiating didn't impact the result of the game, but that was pretty bad overall. Love gets a flagrant for following through and brushing Durant's head, yet Pachullia punches Shumpert and it's only a double technical? The botched double technical on Green? I went to my brother's for the second half and we were laughing at what a shit show the officiating became.
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You didn't see the first half? It was even worse, Kev, by far.
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I saw the whole game. Officiating did not impact the result of the game, as bad as it was at times.
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I'm not a big basketball fan, but I've watched almost the entire finals this year. Is there a precedent in the NBA of a player on the losing team winning finals MVP? LeBron has been far and away the best player on either team, and is the MVP of the series. I know in the NHL they've given MVP to a player on the losing team.
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Jerry West won Finals MVP in a loss, but he is the only one to do it. LeBron was robbed of Finals MVP in 2015 though because of the NBA and Media's stupidity.
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I saw the whole game. Officiating did not impact the result of the game, as bad as it was at times.
I agree. Even if Green would have been ejected on that terrible second Technical, CLE was still up by double digits, and had been that way for the whole game. Plus CLE missed way too many FTs, so they should have won by at least 30. Regardless, with CLE's shooting, they would have still won if all the bad calls went the other way.
That all said, this just shows how insane the Cavs' Big three had to play to just win. I would be shocked if this goes beyond game five or six.
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I saw the whole game. Officiating did not impact the result of the game, as bad as it was at times.
Right. I didn't see any impact on the game at all.
That said, NBA officiating SUCKS! It BLOWS!
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That said, NBA officiating SUCKS! It BLOWS!
This 1st quarter is proving that again. Embarrassing.
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That said, NBA officiating SUCKS! It BLOWS!
This 1st quarter is proving that again. Embarrassing.
Agreed... but then the Cavs look way more ready and prepared then the Warriors... the Dubs are still being careless with the ball at times.
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The officials doing nothing on Durant, when he whacked James in the head with 10 minutes to go in the 2nd and would have been his 3rd foul, was possibly a championship-deciding non-call. The Warriors have went on a major run since, spearheaded by Durant. Unfortunate.
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David West is rightfully T'd up... JR and TT should also got a T each...
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The Cavs are far more to blame for their predicament. They got their balls chopped off as soon as they lost the lead. Completely abandoned the aggressive style of play that got them the 8 point lead, playing petrified of missing a shot and taking forever to run a play, and the BIGGEST indictment on their character, absolutely refusing to close out on open threes. No less then 9 points of this run are on those. You ALWAYS run out to contest an open 3 unless it's someone that never shoots 3s just trying to milk a pump fake for an easier drive to the hoop.
They've thrown in the towel. Fucking pathetic.
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As poorly as they played in the 2nd qtr, I bet the Cavs were glad to have that half time break to re-charge mentally. They seem to play a hell lot better in the 3rd qtr thus far. KD is the reason the Warriors are still ahead...
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KD will get Finals MVP if the Warriors manage to win this game
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Dubs :hat
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Congrats to Bosk1 and Golden State!
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I feel happier for KD for some reasons, lol! :biggrin:
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Yeah, but does his Mom need to be on stage standing and celebrating next to the Warriors ownership?Lol
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No KD no ring for the Dubs. I am happy he is named the Finals MVP.
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You're right. It would've been another ring for the Spurs :-P
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Yeah, but does his Mom need to be on stage standing and celebrating next to the Warriors ownership?Lol
Considering how much she did to make him the person he is coupled with the fact that it's a coin flip, at best, to determine whether any sports team owner is a greedy dipshit that fell ass backwards into 8 figure net worth thanks to old money or an actual human being, I'd say there's no problem whatsoever with it.
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Congrats to the Warriors and all of you who are fans of the Dubs.
Bring on the NBA draft. Can't wait to see who the Wolves grab.
I was listening to Mike and Mike this morning on the way into the office, and Stephen A. was on, and they were talking about Cleveland doing some overhauling. Apparently they think they need a playmaker at PG. No one said they should trade Irving, but said he's more of a shooter/scoring. The speculations centered on Love, of course, but they also mentioned needing a guy who can feed everyone other than Lebron. You can slide Irving to the 2, put JR Smith on the bench where he belongs as 6th man, and just play a small backcourt. Worked well for the Pistons back in the day.
Personally, i think a trade of Carmelo Anthony to CLE for Love and a pick makes the most sense for both clubs. The Knicks need a lot, but they need rebounding huge. A front line of Hermangomez, Porzingis, and Love at the 3 is a formidable frontline. Love can't play D anyway, so you can put him at the 3.
For my Wolves, I personally hope CLE comes asking for Rubio, if they really need a floor general.
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Congrats to Bosk1 and Golden State!
Awesome. But don't congratulate me. I've made no bones about the fact that I am not a long-time Warriors fan. I can't claim this as "my team." I just enjoy watching them do what they do, the way that they do it.
As far as the game itself, it is interesting to look at the box score this morning. As I was replaying certain aspects of the game on my drive in this morning, I realized that I could name only 5 bench players from the Warriors that I remembered seeing in the game, with one of them, Matt Barnes, only making a VERY brief appearance. I checked as soon as I got into work, and sure enough, Kerr only played 5 guys off the bench last night, with Matt Barnes only getting 1 minute (another interesting thing is that Iguodala played almost as many minutes as the 4 starters not named Pachulia, and 4 guys off the bench had as many or substantially more minutes than Pachulia did).
Looking at the Cavs, similar story for them. Only 4 bench guys played. Good production and time for 3 of them. Only 4 minutes and no points from Shumpert.
Really nice to see some of those old veterans the Warriors brought in be able to contribute throughout the season and earn a championship ring. David West as been a consistent force this season on both ends of the floor. Barnes was part of the Warriors' old guard years ago, and his career was basically over, so really nice to see him come back to his old team and contribute solid defense to keep them in games when the starters needed a break throughout the year. Great to see McGee needing a second chance and able to come into a team and thrive as he did this season. Is he the answer at center for next year if they don't keep Pachulia?
Then the young guys, McAdoo, Clark, and McCaw... McCaw seems to be the one that rose up and began to pull away from the crowd in the playoffs. Really nice to see Kerr trust him enough to give him solid minutes in a pivotal game, and to see him rise to the challenge and make solid contributions. But all three of these guys are developing nicely. I hope they find a way to keep them all.
And I mentioned Pachulia above, but I actually kinda felt bad for him during the finals. The last two games, especially, the Cavs were able to exploit him as the weak link on the floor quite often and force him into dumb mistakes. It's a shame, because you could tell that he felt bad, and his teammates even got on him a couple of times, and that overshadowed some nice contributions in terms of some of the really nice picks he set to free up others on the floor, and some of the rebounding he did. He's definitely not the best center out there, but he does some pretty nice things and has generally contributed what the W's needed him to contribute this year. Interesting to see whether they keep him around.
Lastly, I think Klay Thompson deserves a lot more praise than perhaps his numbers garner him. He is such a valuable, and yet frequently unsung, part of this team. He got scored on A LOT these last two games. But virtually every possession where he was matched up one-on-one against one of the Cavs' best players, I felt good about the matchup. And even though he got scored on pretty frequently, he made his guy work HARD for the shot, almost always having to throw up a contested, high difficulty shot. If guys are going to make those anyway, what more can you do? As Mark Jackson said often during the series, if a guy is going to make that kind of shot on that kind of quality defense, you live with it. If Thompson is your "weak link" on D that is getting scored on the most, I think just about any team would be content with that.
Anyway, good series, despite the really poor officiating souring it substantially.
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I'm over these superteams... I'd prefer the superstars spread out over more of the franchises. I'd like to go into a season with more than 2-3 teams with an actual shot at a championship.
But with that said, kudos to the Warriors to assembling the majority of their team through the draft. Can't fault them if a top 5 player wants to join as a FA>.
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So, back to my post above about the individual players, I'm curious to see what the team does in the off season. I would be shocked if they didn't keep their big 4 (Curry, Thompson, Green, and Durant) together. And Iguodala and Livingston are both clutch players off the bench who can easily come in and start when needed. I think they can, should, and will keep that core together. But if they have to free up cap space and deal someone with some value, I can see one of those two guys going, which would be a shame. I think they get more for Livingston, but may be more willing to deal Iguodala since I think he has less mileage left on him. I dunno. Both of those guys have been clutch so often. Either way would be heartbreaking.
For the rest, that leaves the veterans of Pachulia, West, McGee, and Barnes, and the new guys of McCaw, McAdoo, and Clark.
I like Pachulia, but feel he is expendable, both because he is just "good" and because, while you need to have a good center, it is the least important position and easiest to fill given how the W's play. Same with McGee. They each bring something different and valuable to the table that has benefitted the team this year. But I think they can find the same things in other guys. However, on the flip side, I don't know that either of them have much trade value, and I don't believe their contracts are very expensive at all, so I don't know that they get any value by replacing them. It's all about whether they can upgrade at that position without spending.
My last point stands for the other veterans as well. I think both West and Barnes came fairly cheap. West contributed more visibly, and I'd like him to stay around. Barnes' main contributions were on defense (although he contributed on the offensive side as well when needed, and sometimes in pretty key situations). But I think he is the most expendable of the bunch. I don't expect him to return.
Of the new guys, the good news is that they are cheap. I think McCaw and Clark fit well as all-around contributors. McAdoo has been valuable on defense, but his contributions all around haven't felt as impactful as the other two. Wouldn't surprise me to see them keep McCaw and Clark.
All that said, there are obviously a ton of other factors that enter into the equation, like cap space, and who is trying to deal who at any given time. My intent really isn't to make any predictions, and more just commenting on my feelings as to the relative value of each player to the organization.
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But with that said, kudos to the Warriors to assembling the majority of their team through the draft. Can't fault them if a top 5 player wants to join as a FA>.
I agree. The Warriors did nothing wrong. I think Durant can be looked at curiously, but definitely not the Warriors. This is not even Lebron's Miami situation.
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They've thrown in the towel. Fucking pathetic.
I don't watch the NBA at all and prefer college basketball, but I'm on a business trip and caught the last quarter of the game while I was doing some work in my hotel room. So Golden State has a 9 point lead with 30 seconds left, and Cleveland just stands around and lets them dribble out the clock? That's absolutely pathetic. Yes, the game is likely over, but watching a PROFESSIONAL team concede like that is so lame.
In comparison, I thought it was awesome that an NFL team once sent guys crashing through the line on the "victory formation" when the quarterback takes a knee. Dangerous play for the game? Yes. But awesome - do whatever you can to get to the ball while time is still left on the clock. Don't stop playing because you think it's hopeless to come back from a 9 point deficit.
It just reaffirms that I can't stand professional basketball.
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Cleveland fought like hell to the end. Cleveland didn't cut the lead to 9 until there were 15 seconds left. It was over.
0:36 LeBron James makes driving layup 117 - 129
0:20 Stephen Curry misses 24-foot three point jumper 117 - 129
0:19 Tristan Thompson defensive rebound 117 - 129
0:15 JR Smith makes 24-foot three point jumper (LeBron James assists) 120 - 129
0:00 End of the 4th Quarter 120 - 129
0:00 End of Game 120 - 129
Congrats to the Warriors.
Oh, and the point spread on the game was 9 1/2. :lol :lol :lol
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It is official... RW is named MVP!
Shaqtin' A Fool MVP... lol :lol :lol :lol... https://twitter.com/shaqtin/status/874787358289215488
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No KD no ring for the Dubs. I am happy he is named the Finals MVP.
I completely disagree. The Warriors have been a fantastic team for a few years and I think they would certainly have won without Durant. He played great and probably deserves finals MVP. But I do think they'd have won without him, maybe in 6 games. :)
Dubs deserved this title no doubt, and Durant played extremely well. But ultimately, he joined an already proven winner and won with them. The championship to me personally would be practically meaningless if I had to achieve it in that way. His decision to join GS sort of suggests a mindset that I can't really understand from a true competitor, but that may be my own shortcoming. Congrats to he and the Warriors nonetheless. I predict several more NBA championships from this franchise, they are scary good. LeBron and Kyrie played championship-level basketball and the Cavs still fell far short.
-J
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No KD no ring for the Dubs. I am happy he is named the Finals MVP.
I completely disagree. The Warriors have been a fantastic team for a few years and I think they would certainly have won without Durant. He played great and probably deserves finals MVP. But I do think they'd have won without him, maybe in 6 games. :)
I agree, but perhaps not for exactly the same reasons. The thing is, if they don't get Durant, the roster looks a lot different this year. They would STILL be better than last year's team and would have been better than simply = [this year's roster] - [Durant]. And even if it was that, I could still see them being the favorite and likely winning the series (although it would have been closer, I'm sure).
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No KD no ring for the Dubs. I am happy he is named the Finals MVP.
I completely disagree. The Warriors have been a fantastic team for a few years and I think they would certainly have won without Durant. He played great and probably deserves finals MVP. But I do think they'd have won without him, maybe in 6 games. :)
There is no way to know for sure, but watching the series, Durant had to play the way he did for them to win.
Also, it is worth noting that this year's Cavs team was better than last year's team (despite their record, which we all know wasn't great in the regular season because they didn't give a crap down the stretch), so the Warriors had to be that much better this year to beat them.
Dubs deserved this title no doubt, and Durant played extremely well. But ultimately, he joined an already proven winner and won with them. The championship to me personally would be practically meaningless if I had to achieve it in that way. His decision to join GS sort of suggests a mindset that I can't really understand from a true competitor, but that may be my own shortcoming. Congrats to he and the Warriors nonetheless. I predict several more NBA championships from this franchise, they are scary good. LeBron and Kyrie played championship-level basketball and the Cavs still fell far short.
If the Warriors rip off several more championships, history will be kind to Durant, but let's say for the sake of argument that Durant never wins another championship. I don't think history will be as kind to him, since his one title will be viewed by many as "he had to join a 73-win team to get it." I don't think that will happen, though. That team is set up to be just as good for the next couple years, and I will be shocked if anyone takes them down next year.
As for James, to me, his legacy is in tact as the 2nd best player ever, and I don't think anything can happen anymore to knock him down. Losing this final only enhanced his reputation (unless you are one of those knuckleheads who thinks your finals record, which is a TEAM stat, is all that matters). And I think he will leave Cleveland after next season.
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There is no way to know for sure, but watching the series, Durant had to play the way he did for them to win.
Also, it is worth noting that this year's Cavs team was better than last year's team (despite their record, which we all know wasn't great in the regular season because they didn't give a crap down the stretch), so the Warriors had to be that much better this year to beat them.
If the Warriors rip off several more championships, history will be kind to Durant, but let's say for the sake of argument that Durant never wins another championship. I don't think history will be as kind to him, since his one title will be viewed by many as "he had to join a 73-win team to get it." I don't think that will happen, though. That team is set up to be just as good for the next couple years, and I will be shocked if anyone takes them down next year.
As for James, to me, his legacy is in tact as the 2nd best player ever, and I don't think anything can happen anymore to knock him down. Losing this final only enhanced his reputation (unless you are one of those knuckleheads who thinks your finals record, which is a TEAM stat, is all that matters). And I think he will leave Cleveland after next season.
Fair enough assessment...
As for your final statement, where do you think LBJ will or should go, if he is indeed leaving? Honestly, I really don't see him leaving yet again at this stage in his career.
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I could see him going to the Lakers. I doubt he wants to stay in Cleveland and lose in the finals every year to Golden State for the rest of his career, not to mention going at it non-stop with Dan Gilbert about spending money and getting the right free agents. The Lakers already have a good young player in Russell, and if they get Ball or another great young player next week who pans out right away, adding James would make them a threat. Plus, you know Magic will do whatever it takes to make them relevant again.
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I could see him going to the Lakers. I doubt he wants to stay in Cleveland and lose in the finals every year to Golden State for the rest of his career, not to mention going at it non-stop with Dan Gilbert about spending money and getting the right free agents. The Lakers already have a good young player in Russell, and if they get Ball or another great young player next week who pans out right away, adding James would make them a threat. Plus, you know Magic will do whatever it takes to make them relevant again.
Wait a tick... I thought LBJ IS the Cavs' defacto GM since his return? :lol They won't trade for K-Love, and then re-sign TT and JR for that kind of money, or to bring back Jefferson (who originally planned to retire after last year) without his approval. :natalieportman:
As for joining the Lakers... well, I'd rather take my chances, and try and beat the Dubs or the Spurs in the Finals, then losing in the Western semi every year, lol! :lol :lol As a Lakers fan, I don't think too highly of D-Russell but I am pretty high on Ingram, Clarkson and Nance Jr. Thanks to Jim Buss and his poor decision-making over the years, he set us back by more than several years now. The good news is, we ain't competing with the Dubs or the Spurs or the Rockets right now. So if we just keep drafting right from now on, and develop our youngsters the right way; we should be pretty good down the line, just when those teams start getting a little older. We will see.
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https://amp.timeinc.net/si/nba/2017/06/14/jerry-west-leaving-warriors-for-los-angeles-clippers?source=dam
Jerry West is leaving the Warriors to join the Clippers... Of all the NBA teams out there, why join the Clippers? Looks like he is plotting to get LBJ to LA?
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I don't think Durant (or anyone else) should care whether history is "kind" to him. He's on the team he wanted to be on that wanted him. And they are (and look to be) incredibly successful together. That should be the end of the story.
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https://amp.timeinc.net/si/nba/2017/06/14/jerry-west-leaving-warriors-for-los-angeles-clippers?source=dam
Jerry West is leaving the Warriors to join the Clippers... Of all the NBA teams out there, why join the Clippers? Looks like he is plotting to get LBJ to LA?
I was reading some rumors about that "super team" that was talked about with Carmelo, LBJ and Chris Paul happening in the Clipps though I doubt the team can make it happen since it would probably involve a sign and trade for Blake and also a trade for DJ
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I don't think Durant (or anyone else) should care whether history is "kind" to him. He's on the team he wanted to be on that wanted him. And they are (and look to be) incredibly successful together. That should be the end of the story.
I cannot emphasize this enough. It's getting really annoying how the only basketball discussions that the media have are oversimplified, under-thought debates about where Player X stands in history. While it's a fun topic of discussion, it's ultimately meaningless in a practical sense.
Kevin Durant gets up and goes to work in the morning like the rest of us. He clearly enjoys working for the Warriors more than he did the Thunder. By staying in Golden State, he guarantees himself a great life, great teammates, and tons of money. That's what really matters. This dude has a life to live; he's not just a statistic on a piece of paper.
Don't get me wrong. I love talking about basketball history as much as the next guy, but I think people are starting to overdo it a bit. And that's not a statement directed at anyone in particular. I'm just tired of the word "legacy". :lol
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Being a former member of the media, the whole Durant/GS thing is bullshit. So many teams have had that sort of talent. The Bulls had four legitimate all stars. The Celtics did too. So did the Lakers. I get it -- Durant is the highest profile guy to join an already great team. But he shouldn't be the guy taking the heat for it.
What I saw when that happened, was a team that knew, without doubt, they needed a legitimate superstar scorer to overwhelm people. People could beat up Curry. Thompson is streaky. Green is a wildcard. And at the time, Barnes was simply a fourth option. So what did GS do? They begged Durant to join with them, showing him how successful he could be surrounded by shooters.
Smart strategy. But I think instead of the people ripping Durant for his decision, they should be criticizing the other three for not believing in themselves enough (or Harrison Barnes) to go crawling on hands and knees to sway Durant. But instead, the media has focused not on the golden child of Steph (and the other two), but instead focused on making Durant a villain. ::)
All this shit that it isn't good for basketball - it's just that -- bullshit. We'll see what happens. If you give Steph a max deal too, you're forcing Klay and Green to take less, basically, in order to field a team. My prediction is, Klay Thompson's not going to be giving more than a million or two discount, and Green will demand close to the max too. That's quite a large payday for four guys.
What I'm getting at is -- this stuff doesn't last. It goes in cycles. And it has been an amazing cycle for the Warriors that I expect will continue for a few more seasons at the top of the league (they may win another title or two). All those who say it is bad for the game don't really understand the history of basketball. It all goes in waves. Golden State will continue to win 60-65 games, and people will gun for them. And then someone else will come along (it won't be Lebron) and do something different, and the whole cycle will repeat in another decade.
Anyway, just some Thursday hoops rambling...
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I don't think Durant (or anyone else) should care whether history is "kind" to him. He's on the team he wanted to be on that wanted him. And they are (and look to be) incredibly successful together. That should be the end of the story.
I cannot emphasize this enough. It's getting really annoying how the only basketball discussions that the media have are oversimplified, under-thought debates about where Player X stands in history. While it's a fun topic of discussion, it's ultimately meaningless in a practical sense.
Kevin Durant gets up and goes to work in the morning like the rest of us. He clearly enjoys working for the Warriors more than he did the Thunder. By staying in Golden State, he guarantees himself a great life, great teammates, and tons of money. That's what really matters. This dude has a life to live; he's not just a statistic on a piece of paper.
Don't get me wrong. I love talking about basketball history as much as the next guy, but I think people are starting to overdo it a bit. And that's not a statement directed at anyone in particular. I'm just tired of the word "legacy". :lol
For my part, "legacy" has nothing to do with my feelings on Durant going to GS. I think he's a fantastic player and I honestly couldn't give less of a shit what the pundits or NBA historians think about him.
As I stated, it's more that I don't understand the perspective of a dude who makes that move and also fancies himself a true competitor.
These comparisons are cliched and porous I know, but could you see MJ joining the Knicks had the bad boys beaten his ass a few years in a row? Insert practically any great player and hypothetical dominant rival franchise into that analogy. Karl Malone sort of did it I suppose, but at the very very end of his career with the Lakers team that weren't ever really his peers; that seems different to me for several reasons.
Bottom line is, there was a time, I think, when competition was paramount to these guys. The only option was to BEAT the dudes who you couldn't get past or die trying; joining them would certainly have been completely unheard of. In hindsight I sometimes wonder if it was all in our minds and everything was always about stuff like money, job satisfaction, and "legacy."
-J
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Instead of blaming KD for joining the Dubs, or crying foul because the Dubs were able to sign him; I'd say this whole thing was years in the making, and the OKC management should take more blame for it instead. They had a pretty decent, borderline good team in 2012 that made it to the Finals with KD, RW, Ibaka and Harden off the bench. Instead of keeping this core and keep on developing themselves, they were too cheap to pay an extra $2M for Harden. In the end decided to trade him to the Rockets... that, IMHO, got the whole thing started... along the way the OKC management did virtually nothing to upgrade the team. If I were KD, I would have signed with another team too, if he wants an opportunity to eventually win a title. Just my 2 cents here...
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The last three posts nailed it. Just a couple of things in response:
I agree with Samsara's overall point, except the point about "begging" Durant to come. That isn't really accurate. For reasons Azyiu pointed out, and others, Durant was already dissatisfied with OKC. He was VERY seriously considering leaving no matter what. The Warriors already knew this, and Curry and Green had been talking to him about it for the past three years. Why pass up the opportunity on a free agent who is likely to go SOMEWHERE other than his current team? They didn't "beg," but presented him with an opportunity to mutually benefit. And it was a pretty unique opportunity. Not only because he was going to a team that was already a prohibitive favorite, but because he was going to a team that is unique in its unselfish style of play to the point where he could come without largely diminishing either his own amount of touches or anyone else's. And the proof is in the pudding that the experiment worked and wasn't merely lip service. He fit right in because of the unique style of play of this team.
As far as this somehow diminishing him as a competitor, I disagree with that as well. As far as the examples given, the problem is that those are different situations. Would Jordan have joined a rival team if the environment on the Bulls had become somewhat toxic and the front office showed little interest in developing and keeping a supporting cast around him? We'll never know because it didn't happen. But regardless, the environment wasn't good at OKC, and Durant wasn't happy. Should someone stubbornly stay in a toxic environment and stay on a team that the front office has torpedoed and placed on a downward trajectory just to stay a competitor? To me, that doesn't make sense.
Also, consider the fact that Durant not only wanted to win, but he wanted to challenge LeBron. He couldn't do that in OKC. He just couldn't. Again, going back to the front office not supporting building a strong enough team, the fact is that an OKC team couldn't challenge a LeBron-led team because the Cavs as a whole were much more stacked than OKC, which would have allowed the Cavs to disregard other OKC players and focus solely on RW and KD. For him to truly go toe-to-toe with LeBron, he had to be on a team with the talent to spread the Cavs. Yeah, he has an incredibly competitive nature. But the team he was on would not have allowed him to express that in the way he wanted due to the dynamic of the Warriors/Cavs-led league. He couldn't truly go at the one guy he views as his competitive rival in any meaningful way. He changed the dynamic to make that happen. And this year anyway, he came out on top.
All in all, I think Azyiu hit it on the head. Despite OKC managing to content this year even without KD, and despite them making and almost winning the WCC last year, they are and were a team on the decline and a team that, from my understanding, RW has made somewhat toxic. If I were on that team, I'd have been looking for an exit as well.
Anyhow, I'm going to lock this thread since Josh has started a new one. But if anyone wants to continue this discussion, feel free to copy/paste from here into that thread.