NBA Thread

[Peems]

Realizing that not many here are NBA fans and that it would be silly to create a new thread every time something worth note happened, therefore, I present the NBA thread.

Tonight is the big debut of some big names. J-Kidd in Big D and Shaqueal* in the desert. Remember to set your TiVo's to ESPN tonight if you want to watch the Lakers and the Suns go at it. Should be a great game and it will be interesting to see how Shaqueal* does.

*purposely misspelled his name because I think Shaqueal(Shah-Queal) sounds cooler than Shaq.

[813Jag]

Realizing that not many here are NBA fans and that it would be silly to create a new thread every time something worth note happened, therefore, I present the NBA thread.

Tonight is the big debut of some big names. J-Kidd in Big D and Shaqueal* in the desert. Remember to set your TiVo's to ESPN tonight if you want to watch the Lakers and the Suns go at it. Should be a great game and it will be interesting to see how Shaqueal* does.

*purposely misspelled his name because I think Shaqueal(Shah-Queal) sounds cooler than Shaq.
Kobe went off last night, that dunk on Diaw. xeekx Kidd and Diesel lost their debuts.

[MaximumBobcat]

Rockets go for 10 in a row tonight on TNT...xnodx

[otto4pres]

Ben Wallace potentially headed to Cleveland


Bulls would get Drew Gooden, Donyell Marshall, Ira Newble, Shannon Brown, Devin Brown and Cederic Simmons
Cavs would get Wallace, Chris Duhon, and Joe Smith

[ISUMatt]

Ben Wallace potentially headed to Cleveland


Bulls would get Drew Gooden, Donyell Marshall, Ira Newble, Shannon Brown, Devin Brown and Cederic Simmons
Cavs would get Wallace, Chris Duhon, and Joe Smith

Jesus, Paxson better pull this off if he can, anythng to dump Ben Wallace

[ISUMatt]

Ben Wallace potentially headed to Cleveland


Bulls would get Drew Gooden, Donyell Marshall, Ira Newble, Shannon Brown, Devin Brown and Cederic Simmons
Cavs would get Wallace, Chris Duhon, and Joe Smith

According to the ESPN Trade Machine...its a good deal financial wise!!

[ISUMatt]

Drew Gooden > Ben Wallace
Devin Brown > Chris Duhon

[AshevilleApp2]

Trade deadline just passed. Anything new?

[ISUMatt]

There is a report that Cleveland is getting Wally Sczerbiak from Seattle for Newble and Marshall, and then will pry Wallace and Duhon from the Bulls....

[ISUMatt]

ESPNNEWS says the Cavs, Bulls, and Sonics have a 10 player deal that is awaiting NBA approval

[OSBF]

Ben Wallace potentially headed to Cleveland


Bulls would get Drew Gooden, Donyell Marshall, Ira Newble, Shannon Brown, Devin Brown and Cederic Simmons
Cavs would get Wallace, Chris Duhon, and Joe Smith


Isn't this pretty much just like trading my garbage for your garbade?

[ISUMatt]

PROPOSED DEAL

Cavs get:
Wally Szczerbiak
Ben Wallace
Joe Smith
Delonte West

Bulls get:
Larry Hughes
Drew Gooden
Cedric Simmons

Sonics get:
Chris Duhon
Ira Newble
Donyell Marshall

According to the ESPN TRADE MACHINE...it should be a go salary wise

[ISUMatt]

PROPOSED DEAL

Cavs get:
Wally Szczerbiak
Ben Wallace
Joe Smith
Delonte West

Bulls get:
Larry Hughes
Drew Gooden
Cedric Simmons

Sonics get:
Chris Duhon
Ira Newble
Donyell Marshall

According to the ESPN TRADE MACHINE...it should be a go salary wise

I think this is a great trade for the Bulls...Cavs are dumping 5 guys for Big Ben and Wally World...Interesting

[813Jag]

What's the deal with Larry Hughes? Cleveland tired of him?

[ISUMatt]

Cavs get:
Wally Szczerbiak
Ben Wallace
Joe Smith
Delonte West
A Bulls Draft Pick

Bulls get:
Larry Hughes
Drew Gooden
Cedric Simmons

Sonics get:
Adrian Griffin
Ira Newble
Donyell Marshall

This deal official

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3257159

[813Jag]

Cavs get:
Wally Szczerbiak
Ben Wallace
Joe Smith
Delonte West
A Bulls Draft Pick

Bulls get:
Larry Hughes
Drew Gooden
Cedric Simmons

Sonics get:
Adrian Griffin
Ira Newble
Donyell Marshall

This deal official

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3257159
Looks like the Cavs get some shooters.

[seantaylor]

What's the deal with Larry Hughes? Cleveland tired of him?

He is straight up garbabe. Wally is a better player, and the Cavs moved up to the top of the East in my book.

[poly51]

The new Laker Pau Gasol can play!!

[Peems]

He is straight up garbabe. Wally is a better player, and the Cavs moved up to the top of the East in my book.

You really think that puts the Cavs ahead of the Pistons and Celtics? I'll still take the Magic over the Cavs in a seven game series. Here is the proposed lineup for the Cavs when everything is in order:

Big Z
Big Ben
Lebron
Wally
Delonte West

Charles Barkley said it best "They're better this evening then they were this morning." But I don't think by any stretch they are the team to beat in the East. They might be able to take the C's just because they could contain Garnett and Lebron could do the rest.

[813Jag]

You really think that puts the Cavs ahead of the Pistons and Celtics? I'll still take the Magic over the Cavs in a seven game series. Here is the proposed lineup for the Cavs when everything is in order:

Big Z
Big Ben
Lebron
Wally
Delonte West

Charles Barkley said it best "They're better this evening then they were this morning." But I don't think by any stretch they are the team to beat in the East. They might be able to take the C's just because they could contain Garnett and Lebron could do the rest.
That's a good lineup with Gibson coming off the bench. Only downside is losing the points that Gooden could produce.

[grizband]

That's a good lineup with Gibson coming off the bench. Only downside is losing the points that Gooden could produce.
Gibson's ankle injury could have him out 4-6 weeks; there is talk the Cavs will need to sign an NBDL player just to have a full roster.

[813Jag]

Gibson's ankle injury could have him out 4-6 weeks; there is talk the Cavs will need to sign an NBDL player just to have a full roster.
Shows how much I follow the Cavs. Wasn't he at all star weekend?

[blueballs]

The Cavs made it out of the east last year with a great defensive effort and Lebron's best MJ immitation. I wonder if this trade doesn't cost the cavs that defensive identity.

For my money the Pistons are still the best team in the east in a 7 game format, but the better Rajon Rondo plays the less committed I am to that sentiment.

My Magic team (I'm a season tix holder) has serious issues defending guard penetration, until that is solved they won't win a playoff series against a good team.

[seantaylor]

The Cavs made it out of the east last year with a great defensive effort and Lebron's best MJ immitation. I wonder if this trade doesn't cost the cavs that defensive identity.

For my money the Pistons are still the best team in the east in a 7 game format, but the better Rajon Rondo plays the less committed I am to that sentiment.

My Magic team (I'm a season tix holder) has serious issues defending guard penetration, until that is solved they won't win a playoff series against a good team.

Adding a Ben Wallace could never cost a team a defensive identity.

[Peems]

Shows how much I follow the Cavs. Wasn't he at all star weekend?

It just happened.

Anyone watch the Cavs/Wiz tonight. The D leaguers weren't half bad, it does help to have Lebron on your side though. Cavs pulled it out at the end, as Lebron got fouled with 7 seconds left and hit the two free throws. Stephenson tried to score but failed. The Wizards really need Caron Butler back.

On right now it's the Celtics and the Suns. The Suns were killing it in the first and were up by 14 for awhile. But here in the 2nd the Celtics have just cut it to one. Good game. On ESPN if anyone is interested

[seantaylor]

Boston is very overrated. If they weren't in the east, I would not be surprised if they got ousted in the first round.

[813Jag]

The Cavs made it out of the east last year with a great defensive effort and Lebron's best MJ immitation. I wonder if this trade doesn't cost the cavs that defensive identity.

For my money the Pistons are still the best team in the east in a 7 game format, but the better Rajon Rondo plays the less committed I am to that sentiment.

My Magic team (I'm a season tix holder) has serious issues defending guard penetration, until that is solved they won't win a playoff series against a good team.
I watched some of their game with Philly last night, looked kind of sloppy at times.

[blueballs]

I watched some of their game with Philly last night, looked kind of sloppy at times.

Yeah, but we can shoot the three... of course that can be a double edged sword too. The Magic let Philly hang around way too long, which we are prone to do.

Regarding Ben Wallace to the Cavs... again it is all about matchups, especially in the NBA, and where do you play Wallace against the Eastern playoff teams?

If he plays the four (with Z at the five, and Z needs to be out there because of his offense) he now has to defend guys who will step outside of which there are plenty in the east. Wallace can't play Lewis or Turkoglu of Orlando, Jamison of the Wiz, Garnett of the C's, Wallace of Det, Bosh of Tor... those guys will take him outside and put him in no man's land. If he plays the five now you sit Z and his size and offensive prowess and whatever gains (I'm not convinced of any) you gain efensively you lose on the other end.

Ben isn't the same player he was 3 years or more ago... and he's not playing on a front line with Rasheed (who is a VERY GOOD defensive player) and McDyess.

Picking up DeLonte West was a good thing for the Cavs though, he should be able to play off LeBron quite nicely and will accept his role, unlike Hughes.

[813Jag]

Yeah, but we can shoot the three... of course that can be a double edged sword too. The Magic let Philly hang around way too long, which we are prone to do.

Regarding Ben Wallace to the Cavs... again it is all about matchups, especially in the NBA, and where do you play Wallace against the Eastern playoff teams?

If he plays the four (with Z at the five, and Z needs to be out there because of his offense) he now has to defend guys who will step outside of which there are plenty in the east. Wallace can't play Lewis or Turkoglu of Orlando, Jamison of the Wiz, Garnett of the C's, Wallace of Det, Bosh of Tor... those guys will take him outside and put him in no man's land. If he plays the five now you sit Z and his size and offensive prowess and whatever gains (I'm not convinced of any) you gain efensively you lose on the other end.

Ben isn't the same player he was 3 years or more ago... and he's not playing on a front line with Rasheed (who is a VERY GOOD defensive player) and McDyess.

Picking up DeLonte West was a good thing for the Cavs though, he should be able to play off LeBron quite nicely and will accept his role, unlike Hughes.
That was my issue with Wallace, Gooden did things that he did. (Maybe not as well, but like you said Big Ben of 3 years ago is not the same as now) Plus Gooden was able to put up points. Even with Big Z and Gooden on the front line it was up to Lebron to score in bunches. I do think the guard play will help, but in the playoffs you never know what will happen.

[Peems]

Boston is very overrated. If they weren't in the east, I would not be surprised if they got ousted in the first round.

They may be overrated but before this western road trip they were 16-0 against the West. Of course many of those games came at home. As someone mentioned awhile ago the "shine" is wearing off.

[Peems]

Good game tomorrow with the Suns and the Pistons playing at two eastern on ABC. Also the Bulls and Rockets will be playing at eight eastern on ESPN. Go Bulls!

[seantaylor]

Steve Nash owns Chauncey.

[Peems]

Steve Nash owns Chauncey.

What a beatdown the Pistons put on the Suns xeekx

[seantaylor]

What a beatdown the Pistons put on the Suns xeekx

The Shaq trade will go down as one of the all time worst trades.

[otto4pres]

Raptors 96, Heat 54



Final. xeekx xeekx

[Peems]

Raptors 96, Heat 54



Final. xeekx xeekx

Heat are trying their best for Beasley!!! Pat Riley will be courtside for USC v Kansas St!!!

[Ivytalk]

Rockets losing streak reaches 2 as Hornets capitalize on big 4th quarter to win 90-69.

[Ivytalk]

Sixers nip Nuggets, 115-113, as Allen Iverson comes back to a standing ovation at a packed Wachovia Center. Poetic justice: AI misses a potential game-tying shot with a few seconds left, after hitting a 3 to tie the game with 36 seconds left.

[Peems]

Sixers nip Nuggets, 115-113, as Allen Iverson comes back to a standing ovation at a packed Wachovia Center. Poetic justice: AI misses a potential game-tying shot with a few seconds left, after hitting a 3 to tie the game with 36 seconds left.

You can't hate AI. The fans at the game knew what to do. It was time...

[Peems]

The Shaq trade will go down as one of the all time worst trades.

Doesn't look so bad now...The Suns are clicking and the playoff teams are set. Just positioning left. The new hot topic is what was going on with Nelson last night as he benched Davis for the ENTIRE second half against the Suns as the Warriors lost and got eliminated from the playoffs. Who does everyone think will win it all now that the teams are set?

[Grizalltheway]

Doesn't look so bad now...The Suns are clicking and the playoff teams are set. Just positioning left. The new hot topic is what was going on with Nelson last night as he benched Davis for the ENTIRE second half against the Suns as the Warriors lost and got eliminated from the playoffs. Who does everyone think will win it all now that the teams are set?

I haven't watched an NBA game in months, but if I were a betting man, I'd put my money on the Spurs (although I hope otherwise).

[UNHWildCats]

I haven't watched an NBA game in months, but if I were a betting man, I'd put my money on the Spurs (although I hope otherwise).
Celtics, end of discussion!

[Peems]

Celtics, end of discussion!

The Celtics will have some troubles with the Pistons and I think the Cavs too if the Cavs can make it past the Wizards. Did anyone see the sixers-cavs game last night? What a crock!!!!

[813Jag]

It's hard to go against the champs, but this year is wide open.

[chrisattsu]

I haven't watched an NBA game in months, but if I were a betting man, I'd put my money on the Spurs (although I hope otherwise).

I'm a Spurs ticketholder, and even I wouldn't put all of my money on the Spurs.

We seem to be pretty hit or miss lately. I guess things may get better once get Manu, Bob, and Brent back to full strength.

There is a running joke here in San Antonio, we don't expect a Championship this year because it is an even year.

[Peems]

I'm a Spurs ticketholder, and even I wouldn't put all of my money on the Spurs.

We seem to be pretty hit or miss lately. I guess things may get better once get Manu, Bob, and Brent back to full strength.

There is a running joke here in San Antonio, we don't expect a Championship this year because it is an even year.

Who do you like in the West? Lakers? I have no clue, but I think the Suns are looking good.

[813Jag]

Who do you like in the West? Lakers? I have no clue, but I think the Suns are looking good.
The West is wide open, I don't know who to pick. But I'm pulling for the home state (Hornets). I went to my first NBA playoff game when they moved to N.O.

[chrisattsu]

Who do you like in the West? Lakers? I have no clue, but I think the Suns are looking good.

As 813Jag said, the west is wide open. I was watching some pregame talk the other night and the announcers said that the west has been in the playoffs for the last month.

As the defending champion, and one of the perennial tops in the West, people bring their A-game against the Spurs every night of the week. I didn't worry about the Lakers until I saw the impact Gasol had on them. They are pretty tough.

I have watched New Orleans whip us like a rented mule all season long. They are fast, talented, hungry. I expect that they will go pretty deep into the playoffs.

Spurs- Tony continues to cut throw defenses and find his way to the hole, Timmy plays a good inside game as long as he doesn't go up against a Shaq-type player. We are solid, but when a team finds something that works against us or our shots just don't drop, we get blown out by 20 points.

Utah-
Boozer and Co. play dirty basketball (and I watch Bruce Bowen every night). Sloan has a physical team that could return to the Western Conference Finals if they play their cards right.

Rockets-
With or Without Yao the Rox can be a threat. Even though they are only a couple hours away, I really didn't get to watch them (even during their streak). I just don't see them winning a playoff series against one of the Western Elites.

Phoenix-
I didn't know about the Big Cactus deal early on, but after the growing pains Phoenix seems to be doing alright. Shaq presence down low stlll means something especially when you have Nash running the game.

Mavs-
Kidd brought some experience and it is good to watch him with Dirk, I think another year of gelling and they will be back towards the top in the west.

Denver-
I never give respect to Denver. The only reason I follow them is because we play them in the first round, they lose, and we eventually win a Championship.


I can't tell you anything about the East except that Boston is good.


Who wins the west?
My guess is New Orleans, but there just isn't that clear cut kind of leader in the West.

[brownbear]

The Celtics will have some troubles with the Pistons and I think the Cavs too if the Cavs can make it past the Wizards. Did anyone see the sixers-cavs game last night? What a crock!!!!

The Celtics have to make it through the Hawks first!!!!

[Peems]

The Celtics have to make it through the Hawks first!!!!

Joe Johnson is on a mission!!!

[seantaylor]

Go Mavs!!

[Peems]

9 minutes left in the first game of the playoffs as the Cavs lead by 3 over the wiz

[otto4pres]

Spurs beat the Suns 117-115 in 2OT

Finley hit a last-second 3 to send it to OT, Duncan hit a 3 with 3 seconds left to send it to 2OT, and Ginobili got a layup with 2 seconds left to win it

[Peems]

Spurs beat the Suns 117-115 in 2OT

Finley hit a last-second 3 to send it to OT, Duncan hit a 3 with 3 seconds left to send it to 2OT, and Ginobili got a layup with 2 seconds left to win it

That was a great game! Jazz are taking care of the Rockets. If the Rockets couldn't stop Boozer last year with Yao, how are they going to without him?!?!

[813Jag]

Great win, by the Hornets! xthumbsupx

[Peems]

Well the NBA is now definitely going crazy. Avery Johnson has been fired, SI has been reporting that D'Antoni won't return and Larry Brown has been hired to coach the Bobcats. Oh yeah, the playoffs are going on too. Tough loss for the Suns last night. Parker vs. Paul is going to be one to watch!!!

[813Jag]

Well the NBA is now definitely going crazy. Avery Johnson has been fired, SI has been reporting that D'Antoni won't return and Larry Brown has been hired to coach the Bobcats. Oh yeah, the playoffs are going on too. Tough loss for the Suns last night. Parker vs. Paul is going to be one to watch!!!
I think this will be a tough series for the Hornets, but it can really help them develop as a team. Welcome to New Orleans Spurs.

[813Jag]

The Wiiz/Cavs series continues, this has to be the most boring series I've seen. xnonono2x Especially with all the "emotion" between the two teams.

[AshevilleApp2]

I think this will be a tough series for the Hornets, but it can really help them develop as a team. Welcome to New Orleans Spurs.

It's been fun watching the Hornets, you can't help but like Chris Paul. But it still feels strange to me to see them in New Orleans. I hope the owners don't screw the Crescent City like they did the Queen City. Good luck in the series. xthumbsupx

[813Jag]

It's been fun watching the Hornets, you can't help but like Chris Paul. But it still feels strange to me to see them in New Orleans. I hope the owners don't screw the Crescent City like they did the Queen City. Good luck in the series. xthumbsupx
I was too young when the Jazz moved and when the Hornets got to New Orleans I was kind of indifferent. But after I moved away I grew to like them more. Even during the Katrina seasons.

I hope the fans and city continue to embrace this team, our state has been full of failed sports teams.

[BgJag]

I was too young when the Jazz moved and when the Hornets got to New Orleans I was kind of indifferent. But after I moved away I grew to like them more. Even during the Katrina seasons.

I hope the fans and city continue to embrace this team, our state has been full of failed sports teams.

I wish we had the Jazz name back, New Orleans Jazz.xbawlingx

[brownbear]

I wish we had the Jazz name back, New Orleans Jazz.xbawlingx

They could trade with Utah. Considering Utah is the Beehive State, the Utah Hornets would actually fit better (well, anything would fit Utah better than "Jazz").

[BlueHen86]

I wish we had the Jazz name back, New Orleans Jazz.xbawlingx
That was a great name, and it makes no sense in Utah.
For that matter, Lakers makes no sense in Los Angeles.

[Peems]

Only one game tonight. Pistons/Sixers. GO Team Andre!!!

[813Jag]

Only one game tonight. Pistons/Sixers. GO Team Andre!!!
Looks like it's the Pistons and Magic on Saturday.

[GeauxColonels]

They could trade with Utah. Considering Utah is the Beehive State, the Utah Hornets would actually fit better (well, anything would fit Utah better than "Jazz").
That's been thrown around many, MANY times here in New Orleans. But there will not be a name change. The Utah Jazz name is heavily entrenched in the Salt Lake area. The brand is worth a lot out there. They wouldn't just change on a whim. And, the Hornets brand is finally building steam in the New Orleans/South Louisiana region. The only thing I would like to see is them get rid of the teal and change that to green. Go back to the old color-scheme of the Jazz which are also the traditional Mardi Gras colors. We already added the gold, why not finish it off.

[Peems]

That's been thrown around many, MANY times here in New Orleans. But there will not be a name change. The Utah Jazz name is heavily entrenched in the Salt Lake area. The brand is worth a lot out there. They wouldn't just change on a whim. And, the Hornets brand is finally building steam in the New Orleans/South Louisiana region. The only thing I would like to see is them get rid of the teal and change that to green. Go back to the old color-scheme of the Jazz which are also the traditional Mardi Gras colors. We already added the gold, why not finish it off.

Utah Jazz!!! No one has more soul than a Mormon!!!

[AshevilleApp2]

Pistons are starting to look better. I hope they don't revert back to the turn it off turn it on style they have in the last couple of years.

[gmoney55]

Pistons are starting to look better. I hope they don't revert back to the turn it off turn it on style they have in the last couple of years.

Eh, that's just what they do. I fully expect Orlando to come out and win game one, everyone to make a big deal of it, and the Pistons to win in six.

[AshevilleApp2]

Eh, that's just what they do. I fully expect Orlando to come out and win game one, everyone to make a big deal of it, and the Pistons to win in six.

You're probably right. I'm a little less concerned about this series as I am about the projected Conference Final match-up. Complacency against the Celtics will kill them.

[Peems]

The Magic are a good team and will definitely test the Pistons. The main reason the Magic will contend is Dwight Howard. Who's going to guard him? Sheed? He's not one to get that physical and Dwight would tear him up inside. Maxiell? He's not big enough but is strong and can probably hold his own. The backcourt will be the difference and with that edge I'll go with the pistons in 7

[813Jag]

The Magic are a good team and will definitely test the Pistons. The main reason the Magic will contend is Dwight Howard. Who's going to guard him? Sheed? He's not one to get that physical and Dwight would tear him up inside. Maxiell? He's not big enough but is strong and can probably hold his own. The backcourt will be the difference and with that edge I'll go with the pistons in 7
The Magic are shooting the ball well and are playing at a better clip than last season. It'll be a different match-up than Philly because of the 3point shooting.

[Peems]

The Magic are shooting the ball well and are playing at a better clip than last season. It'll be a different match-up than Philly because of the 3point shooting.

Sometimes Orlando shoot the three way too much, they need to feed Superman!!!

[BlueHen86]

The Magic are shooting the ball well and are playing at a better clip than last season. It'll be a different match-up than Philly because of the 3point shooting.
Orlando will have their hands full. When Detroit played, they dominated the Sixers, the only reason the series was close is because the Pistons waited until it was half way over to show up.

I predict Detroit in 6.

FWIW - I'm a Sixers fan. I think Orlando will present Detroit with a tougher challenge than Philly did, but I think Detroit will be ready.

[brownbear]

Hawks win in Atlanta tonight 103-100 to force Game 7!!


GO HAWKS!!!!!!

[Grizzaholic]

Hawks win in Atlanta tonight 103-100 to force Game 7!!


GO HAWKS!!!!!!

I just clicked on to Sportscenter waiting for the scores to pass by the bottom. That is great, I don't really care for Atlanta but as long as the Boston team loses it makes me smile a little bit.

[Peems]

Celtics, end of discussion!


The Celtics have to make it through the Hawks first!!!!


Joe Johnson is on a mission!!!

Ahh, these quotes are great! Celtics are still the heavy favorite in game 7 but anything can happen. GO HAWKS!!!!

[Peems]

Replay of the game right now. The ATL is going crazy!!!

[Grizalltheway]

C'mon Travis, what's the deal? I thought this series was more of a lock than the super bowl! xlolx xlolx xlolx

[blueballs]

The Magic will have to get steady play from their backcourt to have a shot at defeating Detroit.

I like our frontline against theirs, even if we're short two men who are on the DL (Battie and Cook). The backcourt of Billups and Hamilton (with noted Magic killer Lindsey Hunter off the bench) vs. Nelson/Dooling and Evans/Bogans is what really worries me. If Orlando has 15 or more turnovers/game they lose in 6 or less. If they are able to take care of the ball this will be a fun series.

If you look at it objectively here is how it matches up:

C) Howard vs. McDyess... big advantage Howard

PF) Lewis vs. Wallace... push

SF) Turkoglu vs. Prince... Turkoglu was 3rd in the NBA in 4th qtr scoring, advantage Turkoglu

SG) Evans vs Hamilton... big advantage Hamilton

PG) Billups vs. Nelson... big advantage Billups

Bench) I like the Magic's backcourt bench players of Dooling and Bogans but we're short two men up front... slight advantage Pistons.

Coach) Van Gundy vs Saunders... advantage Van Gundy

Intangibles) Detroit is a veteran playoff tested team... big advantage Detroit

Home court) Pistons but the Magic were a really good road team, going 27-14 on the road... advantage Detroit

Prediction) Detroit in six but they'd better enjoy it because this will be the last year they're better than Orlando.

[brownbear]

Ahh, these quotes are great! Celtics are still the heavy favorite in game 7 but anything can happen. GO HAWKS!!!!

I was totally kidding when I posted that original quote. I figured the Hawks wouldn't win a game.

[813Jag]

xlolx xlolx

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa108/cdwells750/tmac.jpg

[Peems]

xlolx xlolx

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa108/cdwells750/tmac.jpg

Did you see the sign the Utah fan was holding. It was low, but clever.

Tracy Mcgrady. Where the 2nd Round Never Happens.

[Peems]

Did you see the sign the Utah fan was holding. It was low, but clever.

Tracy Mcgrady. Where the 2nd Round Never Happens.

Let me add to this that it is not T-Mac's fault whatsoever. He played his ass off but Utah was the better team. T-Mac has just had some bad draws. I hope he can do it someday! But for now Go Jazz, Utah Soul is strong!!!

[Peems]

The Magic will have to get steady play from their backcourt to have a shot at defeating Detroit.

I like our frontline against theirs, even if we're short two men who are on the DL (Battie and Cook). The backcourt of Billups and Hamilton (with noted Magic killer Lindsey Hunter off the bench) vs. Nelson/Dooling and Evans/Bogans is what really worries me. If Orlando has 15 or more turnovers/game they lose in 6 or less. If they are able to take care of the ball this will be a fun series.

If you look at it objectively here is how it matches up:

C) Howard vs. McDyess... big advantage Howard

PF) Lewis vs. Wallace... push

SF) Turkoglu vs. Prince... Turkoglu was 3rd in the NBA in 4th qtr scoring, advantage Turkoglu

SG) Evans vs Hamilton... big advantage Hamilton

PG) Billups vs. Nelson... big advantage Billups

Bench) I like the Magic's backcourt bench players of Dooling and Bogans but we're short two men up front... slight advantage Pistons.

Coach) Van Gundy vs Saunders... advantage Van Gundy

Intangibles) Detroit is a veteran playoff tested team... big advantage Detroit

Home court) Pistons but the Magic were a really good road team, going 27-14 on the road... advantage Detroit

Prediction) Detroit in six but they'd better enjoy it because this will be the last year they're better than Orlando.

I don't know if Lewis Wallace is a push. As Charles said if Rasheed wanted to he could be the best player in the NBA. The guy had 100 blocks and 100 threes this year! Lewis is younger and will get better but right now Sheed has the advantage. The nice thing is I don't think Sheed will be able to post him up as well as he has other guys in the past. In reality there is no exact way to guard Sheed, the only player who can stop him is himself.

[813Jag]

Big win for the Hornets last night.

[Gil Dobie]

Nice win by the Hornets, Paul is the MVP for New Orleans.

Will KG disappear in the second half, with Boston ahead by 18. Garnett disappeared many times playing with the Timberwolves, and he was the only go to guy in Minnesota.

[minuteman65]

Well, the Celtics have finally decided to play like the Celtics.

[Baldy]

Well, the Celtics have finally decided to play like the Celtics.
Translation:

The Celtics likes its home cooking. xthumbsupx ;)

[bulldog10jw]

Translation:

The Celtics likes its home cooking. xthumbsupx ;)

That will be fine since they have home court advantage in the East.

[wkuhillhound]

New Orleans squashed the Spurs again 102 - 84 to take a 2 - 0 lead. They seem to be to a team that's on a mission! The scenery changes to San Antonio for Games 3 & 4. Hoping that the Hornets do well. xthumbsupx xnodx

[813Jag]

Glad to see Hugo didn't set the arena on fire tonight. xlolx I look for the Spurs to play better at home. Hopefully the Hornets can steal one.

[chrisattsu]

Glad to see Hugo didn't set the arena on fire tonight. xlolx I look for the Spurs to play better at home. Hopefully the Hornets can steal one.

I hate to say it, but I called New Orleans on this one. The Spurs just don't have an answer for Paul or West. You can see NO's youth running circles around the Spurs. In addition to this, they have turned Tony into an outside jump shooter. He can't find a crease like he could against Phoenix.

I had hoped that we could steal one-of-two while we were in the Big Easy, but now all I am hoping for is to avoid the Sweep. Hopefully we will come home, and the tortillas will due them some good. I have tickets to game 4, so hopefully they will win that night.

[AZGrizFan]

New Orleans squashed the Spurs again 102 - 84 to take a 2 - 0 lead. They seem to be to a team that's on a mission! The scenery changes to San Antonio for Games 3 & 4. Hoping that the Hornets do well. xthumbsupx xnodx

I hope the Hornets roll those hack-a-Shaq'in bastards right outta the gym. xnodx xnodx xnodx xnodx xnodx xnodx

[813Jag]

I hate to say it, but I called New Orleans on this one. The Spurs just don't have an answer for Paul or West. You can see NO's youth running circles around the Spurs. In addition to this, they have turned Tony into an outside jump shooter. He can't find a crease like he could against Phoenix.

I had hoped that we could steal one-of-two while we were in the Big Easy, but now all I am hoping for is to avoid the Sweep. Hopefully we will come home, and the tortillas will due them some good. I have tickets to game 4, so hopefully they will win that night.
This is where we'll know if the Hornets are for real. If they can play with engery on the road and withstand that early surge that home teams have in the first quarter.

[Grizzaholic]

The Pistons lost tonight pretty bad. They got within 3 points late in the third but it all fell back apart in the 4th and got blown out. Hopefully this is over in 5 games.

[AshevilleApp2]

The Pistons lost tonight pretty bad. They got within 3 points late in the third but it all fell back apart in the 4th and got blown out. Hopefully this is over in 5 games.

I hope so as well. A lot depends on how bad Billups hamstring injury is. If he's seriously hurt, the Magic could pull this out.

[813Jag]

I hope so as well. A lot depends on how bad Billups hamstring injury is. If he's seriously hurt, the Magic could pull this out.
He took an ugly fall last night.

[AshevilleApp2]

He took an ugly fall last night.

Yeah, he about did the splits. They do get an extra day off for him to recover. It might be best though to sit him on Saturday and take their chances with Stuckey. He played pretty well last night.

[blueballs]

Yeah, he about did the splits. They do get an extra day off for him to recover. It might be best though to sit him on Saturday and take their chances with Stuckey. He played pretty well last night.

The play happened right in front of me... I didn't see the foul, it looked like Nelson "pulled the chair" on Billups and they both went down. I thought initially it was the other leg he had bent back under himself...

... and who was it that said Wallace vs. Lewis wasn't a push?xwhistlex

Although I thought Turkoglu had an advantage over Prince initially that is certainly not the case.

If Billups is slowed dramatically we've got ourselves a series now. Orlando should have won the other night in Detroit and if Chauncey isn't 100% they might yet.

A little birdy saw the Pistons leaving the locker room going to their bus and said that Billups could barely move, was in obvious pain and needed help walking and getting on the bus.

[AshevilleApp2]

The play happened right in front of me... I didn't see the foul, it looked like Nelson "pulled the chair" on Billups and they both went down. I thought initially it was the other leg he had bent back under himself...

... and who was it that said Wallace vs. Lewis wasn't a push?xwhistlex

Although I thought Turkoglu had an advantage over Prince initially that is certainly not the case.

If Billups is slowed dramatically we've got ourselves a series now. Orlando should have won the other night in Detroit and if Chauncey isn't 100% they might yet.

A little birdy saw the Pistons leaving the locker room going to their bus and said that Billups could barely move, was in obvious pain and needed help walking and getting on the bus.

If Billups is really slowed the rest of the series, Orlando may well win it.

[Cobblestone]

Celtics 89-73! Ray Allen hot as hell in the second half. Lebron not a big factor and his supporting cast didn't help him much.

2-0 lead in the series, on to Cleveland.

[Ivytalk]

Cleveland sucks worse than a 98-year-old hooker!xsmhx

[Cobblestone]

Cleveland sucks worse than a 98-year-old hooker!xsmhx

xlolx

I can't say I have any experience with that. With the series going to Cleveland I expect they'll even it up. I'm still predicting this series going 7 games with the Celts winning it.

[chrisattsu]

It looks like the home cooking helped the Spurs as they won 110-99 last night over Nawlins.

[Peems]

The play happened right in front of me... I didn't see the foul, it looked like Nelson "pulled the chair" on Billups and they both went down. I thought initially it was the other leg he had bent back under himself...

... and who was it that said Wallace vs. Lewis wasn't a push?xwhistlex

Although I thought Turkoglu had an advantage over Prince initially that is certainly not the case.

If Billups is slowed dramatically we've got ourselves a series now. Orlando should have won the other night in Detroit and if Chauncey isn't 100% they might yet.

A little birdy saw the Pistons leaving the locker room going to their bus and said that Billups could barely move, was in obvious pain and needed help walking and getting on the bus.

It was me!!!xlolx I still don't think Lewis is equal to Wallace. But I will come here and admit that Lewis is performing quite well. He is leading the Eastern Conference Semis in PPG at 23.7 and he and Dwight Howard have also played the most minutes out of all the remaining Eastern Conference teams.

However, we both agreed that guard play was the biggest advantage Detroit had and it is showing. Despite missing most of game 3 Chauncey is still averaging over 16 pts a game in about 24 minutes of play and Rip is over 18 a game in about 38 minutes.

In total, if Lewis can continue to play at his high level and Dwight is Dwight AND if Chauncey isn't 100% then the Magic have a great shot at winning this series.

[bonarae]

Cleveland leading over the Celtics 52-35 at halftime.

In the first quarter, Doc Rivers had a technical for arguing over a foul on Sczerbiak.

[Peems]

Also of note, Mike D'Antoni decides to destroy his career and go to New York!!! Money does talk, because to pass up the opportunity to coach a youthful team that was ravished by injuries and poor leadership for the Knicks!!! xeekx. The Bulls could get a great pick and be right back in the hunt next year. It will take the Knicks at least 5 years to become relevant unless they do a Boston-esque trade.

[SideLine Shooter]

Does anybody really care?xconfusedx

[Grizalltheway]

Does anybody really care?xconfusedx

About your posts? No. xthumbsupx :p

[Grizzaholic]

I missed the Cavs game, was busy watching Nascar. How did the Cavs and James do?

[Peems]

I missed the Cavs game, was busy watching Nascar. How did the Cavs and James do?

108-84 Cavs.
James had 21 pts 8 assts 5 rebs.

But the bigger question is what the hell is wrong with Boston on the road? They look like two completely different teams!!!!

[SideLine Shooter]

About your posts? No. xthumbsupx :p

ditto!!!!!xlolx

[813Jag]

108-84 Cavs.
James had 21 pts 8 assts 5 rebs.

But the bigger question is what the hell is wrong with Boston on the road? They look like two completely different teams!!!!
Must be the power of the Garden. xlolx

[blueballs]

I am in mourning today... the Magic fought hard but didn't play especially smart and gave it away with poor ball security and poor free throw shooting. I'm proud of the way they fought and they've come a long way and the future's bright, but they just blew a tremendous opportunity to possibly truly step into the NBA elite.

With Battie and Cook coming back next year, the mid level exception and at least four expiring contracts, with a good addition of two the future is really bright and the lessons learned this playoff season will make them better and tougher- which is really the difference between the Pistons and them- in the future.

[Cobblestone]

108-84 Cavs.
James had 21 pts 8 assts 5 rebs.

But the bigger question is what the hell is wrong with Boston on the road? They look like two completely different teams!!!!

Good question and good point. I won't be surprised to see the Cavs even the series up but the Celtics need to start winning on the road. Home court advantage throughout or not, they can't just expect to win only at the Garden and get into the finals.

[813Jag]

This is where we'll know if the Hornets are for real. If they can play with engery on the road and withstand that early surge that home teams have in the first quarter.
Just wanted to bring this back up. The Hornets have shown flashes but I don't know if they're ready to cross the hump yet. Game 5 will forecast the winner of this series.

[AshevilleApp2]

Just wanted to bring this back up. The Hornets have shown flashes but I don't know if they're ready to cross the hump yet. Game 5 will forecast the winner of this series.

I think the Hornets have the players, but the Spurs are so freakin resilient. Hopefully they'll get their energy back at home and pull the series out.

[813Jag]

I think the Hornets have the players, but the Spurs are so freakin resilient. Hopefully they'll get their energy back at home and pull the series out.
I want the Hornets to pull it out but this is really a learning expirence for them. Playing a playoff tested team like the Spurs can only help them get better. The key is playing well on the road. Great teams find ways to win on the road.

[chrisattsu]

I want the Hornets to pull it out but this is really a learning expirence for them. Playing a playoff tested team like the Spurs can only help them get better. The key is playing well on the road. Great teams find ways to win on the road.

QFT. For the Spurs to advance they have to win 2 out of 3 (and 1 out of 2 in N.O.)

I was at the AT&T Center last night, and the Hornets just came out flat. They shot less than 40 percent and the Spurs hung around 60.

[Cobblestone]

Tremendous comeback by the Celtics last night... NOW WIN ONE ON THE ROAD!

[Peems]

Tremendous comeback by the Celtics last night... NOW WIN ONE ON THE ROAD!

Poor Paul Pierce. He gets stuck guarding Lebron and then he's so tired on offense. I think game 7 will be a doozy!!!

[Peems]

Poor Paul Pierce. He gets stuck guarding Lebron and then he's so tired on offense. I think game 7 will be a doozy!!!

Well Posey has been "guarding" Lebron today and so far Paul and Lebron are going crazy! Great game so far 85-80. Lebron just got away with a pull on Pierce's jersey and now it's Cavs ball. Anyone else watching?

[T-Dog]

LeBron is having one of those "I'm gonna do this all by my self" days.

I believe he just got his 44th point. Pearce has 39. He's also been unreal.

This is basically LeBron vs Pearce with 8 other people running around.

[Peems]

LeBron is having one of those "I'm gonna do this all by my self" days.

I believe he just got his 44th point. Pearce has 39. He's also been unreal.

Lebron stole the ball from Pierce and then dunked it. James just got a rebound and is going one on one and just missed a three...

[Peems]

About a minute left...PJ BROWN IS ON FIRE!!!

[UNHWildCats]

C's advance

[Cobblestone]

That was one great game. It's games like that which take a lot of energy out of me. I'm glad the Celtics are advancing but I still say they have GOT to start winning on the road. They cannot depend on winning each game in the Garden if they are going to win the NBA Championship.

[Peems]

Was anyone besides me surprised by what Doc Rivers did at the end? Paul Pierce is having one of the best games of his playoff career and is nailing shots all over the place and Doc thinks "Let's get the ball to KG, he's a solid 4-10!" Paul Pierce barely touched the ball at the end and when he did it was because he out hustled everyone for it.

Lebron was great, but as Chuck said the Cavs aren't going to win games when Lebron has 44 points and barely any assists. Congrats to the Celtics and I'm looking forward to a great series between them and the Pistons.

[813Jag]

Was anyone besides me surprised by what Doc Rivers did at the end? Paul Pierce is having one of the best games of his playoff career and is nailing shots all over the place and Doc thinks "Let's get the ball to KG, he's a solid 4-10!" Paul Pierce barely touched the ball at the end and when he did it was because he out hustled everyone for it.

Lebron was great, but as Chuck said the Cavs aren't going to win games when Lebron has 44 points and barely any assists. Congrats to the Celtics and I'm looking forward to a great series between them and the Pistons.
Boston finally did what they should have let Lebron get his and limit everyone else.

[UNHWildCats]

Spurs vs Lakers

Pistons vs Celtics

[furpal87]

Rooting for Celtics-Spurs, but think it will be the Pistons in 6, and The Lakers in 5.

[Peems]

Rooting for Celtics-Spurs, but think it will be the Pistons in 6, and The Lakers in 5.

I'm hoping for what everyone else dreads. But I think the Spurs are probably finished and I think the Pistons have a great shot. Right now they are up by 5 and it's a great game.

What did everyone think of the Spurs/Lakers game the other night with Barry taking the final shot and the call/no call?

[Grizalltheway]

I'm hoping for what everyone else dreads. But I think the Spurs are probably finished and I think the Pistons have a great shot. Right now they are up by 5 and it's a great game.

What did everyone think of the Spurs/Lakers game the other night with Barry taking the final shot and the call/no call?

Incidental contact. Good riddance to Tim "biggest whiner in the league" Duncan and the Spurs. xcoffeex

[Grizzaholic]

Incidental contact. Good riddance to Tim "biggest whiner in the league" Duncan and the Spurs. xcoffeex

I agree with you. I think the Spurs get a lot of calls that are either phantom or no calls because they whine a lot. for me, the no call that happened a couple of days ago was just karma biting them in the ass from previous years when they were playing the Suns and the Suns got homered big time.

Sucks to be the Spurs, but I don't like the Lakers either. Kobe is another one of those whiners.

[AZGrizFan]

I agree with you. I think the Spurs get a lot of calls that are either phantom or no calls because they whine a lot. for me, the no call that happened a couple of days ago was just karma biting them in the ass from previous years when they were playing the Suns and the Suns got homered big time.

Sucks to be the Spurs, but I don't like the Lakers either. Kobe is another one of those whiners.

I hate the Sterns as much as the next guy (well, probably MORE), but I gotta hand it to them...the way they handled that no-call in the press conference afterwards was admirable.... xcoolx xcoolx xcoolx

[813Jag]

Why would Brent Barry or any role player deserve that call at the point in the game? xconfusedx

[813Jag]

Incidental contact. Good riddance to Tim "biggest whiner in the league" Duncan and the Spurs. xcoffeex
That title goes to this guy in Cleveland. xlolx

[Gil Dobie]

Lakers / Celtics is close to becoming a reality xthumbsupx

[AshevilleApp2]

Lakers / Celtics is close to becoming a reality xthumbsupx

I hope not. But if it happens, I'll pull for the Celtics for the first time in over 30 years.

[Gil Dobie]

I hope not. But if it happens, I'll pull for the Celtics for the first time in over 30 years.

I've been a Lakers fan since the 60's. I like Detroit better than Boston, but the Lakers vs Celtics is a classic.

[gmoney55]

Too much being made of that call on Fisher anyway. Spurs still needed the free throws just to get the game to overtime, since he wasn't in the act of shooting. Mistake by Barry IMO, if he goes into Fisher when he's up in the air they'll have to make the call in the act of shooting and he gets 3 at the line.

[gmoney55]

I don't see the Celts or Pistons staying with this Lakers team....they just have too many scoring weapons for teams that usually put up around 90 points, a la San Antonio.

[Gil Dobie]

Lakers / Celtics is close to becoming a reality xthumbsupx

.....and no one is getting fat except Mama Cass....