The Finals Preview: Dallas Mavericks vs. Miami Heat

After a month and a half of Derrick Rose, Growl nation, Kevin Durant backpacks, and excessive T-Mobile commercials, the Playoffs are over and it's time for the Finals. It's down to the Dallas Mavericks and the Miami Heat and both teams are playing fantastic basketball, very deserving of playing for the Larry O'Brien trophy. A rematch of the 2006 NBA Finals, let's see who will be crowned champion when it's all said and done:

Dallas Mavericks

This year's Mavs team is very reminiscent of the team in 2006 that lost in 6 to the Heat, a team with a lot of depth that has no weaknesses. Unlike the mid 2000 Mavericks however, these Mavs aren't soft and certainly don't crack under pressure. They've thrived in comeback situations this year and have won all their series-clinching games at the first opportunity. The Dirk Nowitzki who once was intimidated by smaller, more athletic defenders (Matt Barnes) and taunted for loving the Hasselhoff  is no longer being ridiculed. He's been the best player in these Playoffs and he's become the most difficult cover in the NBA. He defines the saying "practice makes perfect" and his work ethic has gotten him another chance at a title as the Mavs window of opportunity closes. Besides the German, the Mavs have also played great defense allowing 93 points per game and shutting teams out in the final minutes of games. Tyson Chandler and Brandon Haywood have made it difficult to score in the paint and Shawn Marion continues to be a pest on defense and offense. Jason Kidd has reinvented his game as he ages, and he along with JET, Peja, and J.J. Barea continue to keep defenses honest spreading the floor with the 3 ball and creating room for Dirk to work.

Miami Heat

In comparison to the 2006 championship team, this year's Heat team is the 2006 team on steroids. Unlike a team assembled of aging superstars (Shaq, Gary Payton, Antoine Walker, etc.) this team has three superstars not even in their prime yet and they're clicking at the perfect time. After all the scrutiny, and embarrassing moments  during the season, the Heat have overcome all their past drama and are clearly focused on one objective, winning basketball games. The big 3 have been excellent and are only getting better with each series. Mike Bibby, Mario Chalmers, and Joel Anthony have done exactly what is asked of them and the Gator boys (Mike Miller & Udonis Haslem) have provided difference making performances in the Playoffs that was lacking in the regular season. Chris Bosh looks like one of the best big men in the league again, Dwyane Wade hasn't been stellar, but he's been a good enough Pippen to Mr. Clutch in these Playoffs, LeBron James, and the "Decision" maker himself has been absolutely wonderful. LeBron might be playing the best basketball of his career and he's doing it on both ends of the floor. He's closed games out with hard drives and jumpers, but most importantly, he's done it with his defense. In the previous series against the Bulls, he locked down Derrick Rose to 6% shooting when defending him in the 4th quarter and used his incredible athleticism and size to suffocate the MVP. While everyone criticized LeBron for not having a killer instinct, it seems like he finally understands the full extent of his talent and he may get the last laugh when it's all said and done, proving all haters, including myself, wrong.  

Key Players:

Shawn Marion (DAL) - He was the key to the previous series and he will be again for this series. Dirk will get his on offense and of course is the most important player on the Mavs, but The Matrix has the most important task on the team, and that is to stop LeBron James on the defensive end. These Playoffs have been a resurrection of the all-star Shawn Marion, and he needs to continue to provide that energy and make the opposing team's star player work to get his on offense. Marion will also need to keep LeBron honest on defense and continue to score as well.    

Dwyane Wade (MIA) - He and Udonis Haslem are the only guys left from the 2006 championship team, and he will need to take that experience of winning it all and show the rest of the guys how it's done. In 2006, D-Wade single-handedly won a championship himself and  introduced himself to the world as a league superstar for many years to come. This time around he has greater parts around him, but it's still his job to be the main scoring threat and lead by example. Although it seems that the Heat are now LeBron's team,  Wade is the one that has been there and done it, and he will have to be the difference of this series.

The Edge:

Although this is a series that I definitely did not want to see, I'm positive it will be an excellent series. I don't see any blowouts and I see hard-fought defensive games throughout, similar to game 4 of the Heat/Bulls series. The Mavericks have a hungry veteran squad that knows this may be the last opportunity to win a championship. While the Heat have an opportunity to quiet all the haters, and validate their preseason plans of beginning a dynasty in South Beach. The Mavericks will have one advantage in this series and that is Dirk Nowitzki. He will be a huge problem for the Heat, but that will be it. The Heat play excellent team defense that I have not seen since the Detroit Pistons of the mid 2000s. The Heat will close on passing lanes and contest those threes that were open in previous series for the Mavs and it's going to be very difficult for Dirk to get offensive help. Since the Celtics series, I've been convinced that no one will stop LeBron on this journey for his first title. The man is determined and it's a shame he couldn't play with this desire in Cleveland. Even if the Mavs find a way to throw him off his game, did I forget to mention they still have a guy named Dwyane Wade on their team, oh and Chris Bosh as well. If Dirk couldn't beat D-Wade by himself in 2006, what makes me think he will beat them this time around when the Heat have two more superstars. I understand that this Mavericks team is better and Dirk is a much better player now, but no one is stopping this Heat team. No one is stopping this team from changing the league and beginning an era of super teams. All hail the King.

  

Series: (4-2) - Miami Heat

Playoff Previews: Conference Finals

It's been a crazy Playoffs. It's the beginning of a new era in the NBA. Let's see how the Final Four fair:

Western Conference Finals 

2) Dallas Mavericks vs. 4) Oklahoma City Thunder

The Dallas Mavericks come into this series with a lot of momentum and rest after their beat down of the Los Angeles Lakers. The rest however can have two effects on the team. It can either be very beneficial for a veteran team like the Mavs in need of it or it can be damaging towards that momentum the Mavs had. I think that we'll see the Mavs a little rusty at the start of Game 1 but the long break won't have a huge effect. Zach Randolph had his way with Serge Ibaka in the Conference Semis, and Dirk Nowitzki should be able to do the same. He may even be a more difficult cover. Of course, the one aspect of the Mavs that made them so great in the series against the Lakers that will have to be present in this series as well is three-point shooting. If Jason Terry and Peja Stojakovic can continue shooting the lights out, there is no way this team loses the series. The Mavs are deep and very experienced which will definitely give them an advantage over the Thunder, and they have the "Little Leprechaun of Luck," J.J. Barea.

 

As for the Oklahoma City Thunder, they come off a tough series with the Grizzlies. The Grizzlies deserve a lot of credit for their "never quit" attitude, but that series shouldn't have been as difficult as it was for the Thunder. Often at times, the Thunder showed brilliance because of their limitless talent, but they failed to execute on numerous occasions due to their lack of experience. They can be so much better yet their youth holds them back from what their capable of doing. With all that said however, they've still made it to the Western Conference Finals and they are very dangerous. They're underdogs in this series, but the way I see it, they've overachieved and they're playing with house money with nothing to lose. How they play against the Mavs in this series will most likely be exactly the same as the series against the Grizzlies but with added pressure that the Thunder shouldn't worry about. Kevin Durant will have brilliant games like game 7 Sunday, and he'll probably give a stinker at some point in the series. Perkins and Ibaka will continue to be gritty and physical and Nick Collison should be able to aggravate Dirk a little. James Harden will continue to shoot the ball well and hopefully the rest of bench will continue its solid play.   

Key Players: Russell Westbrook (OKC): Russ is going to have to be the main guy in this series. In these Playoffs, Jason Kidd has not matched up against a young, athletic guard yet, and Westbrook can and will cause a ton of defensive problems for the Mavs. However, he cannot lose his head and be selfish getting caught up with taking jumpers and playing too fast and out of control. All he has to do is attack with a controlled pace and continue to get to the rim. If he can play the way he had in the final games of the series against the Grizzlies, Russ can be capable of getting triple-doubles every game this series. He can be the guy getting the spotlight instead of KD in this series, but he just needs to do it correctly.

Shawn Marion (DAL): I think he's been one of the most underrated players for the Mavs in their Playoff run and his versatility to play the 3 or 4 allows the Mavs to play different rotations (small ball for 3s, big for D, etc.) to their advantage. His main task in this series is to slow down Kevin Durant and tire him out on the other end being a small offensive factor as well. He's been locking down the opposing teams' best wing scorers, and the Mavs are depending on him to slow down the league's scoring champ this series.    

I haven't predicted too many series correctly this year, and I hope I'm wrong again on this one. I have to give the edge to the Mavericks only because of home-court advantage. I really don't believe either team has an edge, and I think this series will actually be better than the Bulls-Heat series. Please KD, prove me wrong.

Series: (4-3) - Dallas Mavericks 

Eastern Conference Finals

1) Chicago Bulls vs. Miami Heat

No Boston? No problem. This will be an excellent series regardless of what happened in Game 1. You can discredit the series against the Celtics because as great as the Heat were, the C's were just bad and old. The series was an ass-whopping provided by the Heat and sure the Heat can celebrate about it, but it was only advancing past the second round. However, that series did bring out a lot of positives for Miami. It starts with D-Wade and LeBron playing at their highest level of basketball and Chris Bosh is starting to come along as well. After watching Game 1, I could be really discouraged about the Heat and their poor offense, but there's no reason for that. The Heat still have LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, and they're still capable of taking over games any night.

Before Game 1, everyone had the Heat as a heavy favorite and many forgot how good the Bulls really were. This was the team with the best record in the regular season and they play suffocating defense. As I watch them more and more, they remind me a lot of the 2001 Philadelphia 76ers, with better compliments for its superstar. D-Rose is gonna be a nightmare to guard for Mike Bibby and Mario Chalmers and their defense will make it difficult for Bron and Wade to penetrate and get whatever they want. Keith Bogans and Kyle Korver are going to have to hit their threes, the bench will have to continue to dominate like Game 1, and Joakim Noah is going to have to be a beast inside, of course defensively, but offensively as well. 

Key Players: Carlos Boozer (CHI): As important as Derrick Rose is to the Bulls, Boozer is just as important in the series, and maybe even more important in this series. He's been missing in these playoffs, and this is his time to pick up the slack. D-Rose can't do it by himself and Carlos Boozer needs to score. He cannot be outplayed by Chris Bosh and he needs to put up a stat line of 20 points and 12 rebounds a game. In a supposed perimeter-oriented series, he will have to be the x-factor inside and be dominant. It's his time to prove he was worth the big bucks this offseason.

LeBron James (MIA): So he beat the Celtics, and he finally admitted he couldn't do it without Bosh and Wade, finally offering a sincere apology to Cleveland. However, he still hasn't accomplished anything. He's been further in his career already and he can't just settle with beating the C's. He has the compliments now and it's up to him to take his talent to an even higher level in this series and through the rest of the playoffs. Kobe is gone, the Celtics are gone, and now is his chance to take the spotlight and really show the league what he's capable of doing. Triple-doubles or bust for LeBron in this series.

This series will be a continual grind throughout. Both teams are excellent on defense and the edge for each game will be decided by whoever controls the tempo. In the end, I will still give an edge to the Heat, slightly, mainly because they have two superstars in D-Wade and LeBron and because of what they're capable of.  If they can have performances similar to the ones against the Celtics and live up to their potential, the only thing stopping the Heat would be themselves regardless of how great the Bulls defense is.

Series: (4-2) - Miami Heat     

Rebirth of a Dynasty

“It was a challenge bigger than we could beat this year...It’s been a wonderful run.”

With these final words from Phil Jackson, it put a close to another era of championship basketball in Los Angeles. The signs were there, the end was coming, but this soon, no one could predict it. These Lakers were too talented, too experienced, too well-coached to not beat the Mavericks and the rest of the league on their way to a 3-peat. For all the haters, including myself, let's be honest, a bit of why we hated the Lakers was because we feared the Lakers. They have the best player on the planet, they had the best front court, and they had the Zen Master, the greatest to ever coach in the NBA.

That wasn't enough this time around. Too many egos, too much arrogance, too much inner conflict & lack of trust, not enough execution, and age finally caught up to this team. The biggest weaknesses of the Lakers were exposed by the Mavs, mixed with weak emotions, and lost motivation, leading to the embarrassing sweep witnessed Sunday. Just like 2004, the Lakers had the better team in the series, but didn't play like it. They were outplayed in every aspect of the game, and each player on the team had their personal flaws exposed. Pau Gasol (too soft), Derek Fisher (too old), and Ron Artest (worst player in the NBA) are some perfect examples. Steve Blake and Matt Barnes who were supposed to be excellent pick-ups backfired, and the consistent guys all season, Andrew Bynum and Lamar Odom played ok, but ended the year shamefully. Lastly of course is Kobe Bryant, and I can't really blame Kobe for this letdown, but with a chance to further his already great legacy and be Jordan-esque by leading his team back from a 3-0 deficit, I thought he would come through with some vintage Kobe. That Kobe didn't show and it seemed like he ran out of gas. All those playoff games, all those nights of putting the team on his shoulders finally caught up. Kobe couldn't do it anymore. The entire team had made its final impression, disorganized and in need of a change.

Laker nation seems to be in a state of panic because of their astonishing beat down and the abrupt end to their season, but they're actually not far from being contenders again next season. The roster needs an overhaul, a new coach needs to be hired, and a bit of Mitch Kupchak magic/cheating needs to take place in order for a contender to be in place next season. There is no way this team will drop off dramatically as long as Kobe Bryant remains on the roster, but there is a lot of work to do starting with:

1) Hiring the Right Guy: Before the Lakers can make any roster changes, they have to figure out who takes over for Phil Jackson. They have to figure out if they still want to run the triangle or do they head in a new direction. Do they want to be more uptempo? Do they want to be more defensive? Do they want an experienced coach or a fresh new face? The rumors of John Calipari and Coach K don't make sense to me if the team wants to stay as contenders. Jeff Van Gundy is another popular name, but he's being thrown around every team that needs a coach, and Nate McMillan is another coach who may be considered, but I believe is not a very good fit. A darkhorse candidate I think fit for the job would be current Minnesota Timberwolves' coach Kurt Rambis, who was Phil Jackson's top assistant before taking the job in Minnesota, but he'd have to be fired to be hired. Therefore the current front-runner and best fit to be Phil's successor is current assistant coach and former player, Brian Shaw. He'll continue to run the triangle and he'll bring the same demeanor of Phil similar to his playing style: calm, cool, and collective. Shaw's been Phil Jackson's assistant for the past few years now and he has Kobe's vote of confidence and I think he'd be an excellent coach.

2) Everyone but Kobe: While I do like the talent of the current team, the chemistry and characters of the players do not mesh well together. As of now, everyone can be moved on the team except for Kobe Bryant. The problem with changing this team though, is the lack of cap flexibility. Theo Ratliff and Joe Smith will be gone, and player options for Matt Barnes (most likely to accept) and Shannon Brown (Lakers need to have him accept) are the only other potential eliminators of contracts. Other than that, this team has everyone else under contract for a couple more seasons so they'll remain capped out. So where to begin reconstructing? I'll begin with the minor changes starting with: 

- Point Guard: Most be more athletic and younger and if Derek Fisher is to be back, he will have to accept a role as a back-up point guard. Steve Blake has not lived up to any expectations and if he can be moved, he should be moved. The free agency doesn't have too many appealing guards so I believe the draft would be the best place to find their next point guard. The only problem, the Lakers only have a 2nd round pick.

- Ron Artest: When Ron Artest signed with the Lakers I thought he would be a perfect fit. He was one of the better small forwards in the league and provided that "Dennis Rodman" edge that a soft Lakers team needed. The only problem was that Artest's tenure as a Laker has been terrible and he's been terrible. His crazy antics are inexcusable and ineffective and he has lost all offensive skill whatsoever. He needs to be traded immediately to any team that would be crazy enough to want him and the Lakers should take anyone offered with a contract less than 3 years. His perfect replacement, Tayshaun Prince. He's a long, excellent defender with championship experience and he has the ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting. He won't be costly and could be signed with a mid-level exception.

- Depth & 3-Point Shooting: The Lakers bench was outplayed immensely in the Mavericks series and was even outplayed in the first round by the Hornets. All season they had the best bench player in the league, Lamar Odom, but that was it. Shannon Brown disappeared after the first quarter of the season and I already mentioned Matt Barnes and Steve Blake's ineffectiveness. Their first task of course should be obtaining three-point shooting. Every team needs a Kyle Korver and call me crazy, but Sasha Vujacic returning would not be a bad idea. The Machine is feisty on defense and he can hit the three ball. A couple other options via free agency may be Jason Kapono, Daequan Cook (restricted FA), Anthony Parker, and the most intriguing pick-up to me could be Michael Redd. After filling the 3-point shooting void, the next task is beefing up the front court, starting with tough, bigs that offer 6 hard fouls. The Lakers have a soft interior and the easiest way to shake that persona is to acquire hard-nosed back up big men. Nzar Mohammed comes to mind, Reggie Evans will grab some boards and nuts, and why not bring back DJ Mbenga just for luck. Of course, the back up big men are just necessary for depth and toughness, but the biggest change will need to come with the starting front court of the Lake show and of course that leads to:  

 3) Superman Landing in Hollywood: This is the most important and crucial task for Kobe Bryant and Mitch Kupchak to accomplish this offseason, but if executed properly, will have the Lakers as the team to beat next year and possibly for many more seasons. Dwight Howard is the perfect player for Kobe to pass the torch to as his best games seem to be behind him and I can almost see a Laker team forming reminiscent to the dynasty of the early 2000s. Dwight can take on the same role as Shaq, having the offense run through him, and Kobe would become the second option with less pressure and work placed on him. Along with being the focal point of the offense, Dwight would be able to work with Kareem Abdul-Jabar to further his offensive skill, and if the triangle is executed correctly it may result in numerous MVP and championship trophies for Superman.

At the deadline, I mentioned this potential trade to a couple friends and they thought I was crazy, but with the Lakers' downfall and Dwight's future intentions known, this trade seems more and more likely. The Lakers possess the greatest trade pieces for the Magic and it's a pretty simple thing to do for the Lakers. If they play their cards correctly they can also come out of a trade with more than just Dwight Howard. It first begins with Kobe doing whatever it takes to lure and convince the big man into believing Socal is the place to be and not New York similar to the way Dwyane Wade persuaded Bosh and LeBron to head to South Beach. The Magic are already in a tight situation because they don't want to risk losing another franchise center at the peak of his career without getting anything in return. Therefore if Dwight is persuaded and wants to be in LA then the Magic are almost forced to oblige. The Magic could demand Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum, Lamar Odom, and the entire Laker roster and as many future draft picks as they want, and if I am the Lakers they can have all of that except for Kobe. A multiple-team deal would seem most likely, but if it were just between the two teams, the most realistic deal I think that can be proposed would be Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, Steve Blake, Shannon Brown (needs to accept opiton), and four future draft picks in return for Dwight Howard, Jameer Nelson, Brandon Bass, Ryan Anderson, Hedo Turkoglu, and Chris Duhon. Most likely there won't be just a trade between the two because I don't believe the Magic want to have both Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol on their roster, and I don't think the Lakers want Hedo Turkoglu's outrageous contract. However, if these are the guys that the Lakers acquire besides Dwight from Orlando, they can all contribute.

Jameer Nelson is a gritty point guard who has played his entire career with a chip on his shoulder and he would be a huge upgrade from Grandpa Fish. Brandon Bass will have one role which is grab rebounds and be as aggressive as possible. Hedo Turkoglu will continue to suck. Chris Duhon will be... Chris Duhon, and I think a huge X-factor will be Ryan Anderson. The reason I say that is because he can be "Big Shot Bob" for these potential new Lakers. He had a career year and he's a great shooter. If all goes according to plan, we could very well see a Lakers' roster next season like this:


Bench: Nzar Mohammed (FA), DJ Mbenga (FA), Reggie Evans (FA), Ryan Anderson (via Trade Orl), Matt Barnes (Returning), Luke Walton (Returning), Hedo Turkoglu (via Trade Orl), Sasha Vujacic (via sign & trade NJ - Ron Artest), Chris Duhon (via Trade Orl), Derek Fisher (Returning)

Starters: PG: Jameer Nelson (via Trade Orl), SG: Kobe Bryant (Returning), SF: Tayshaun Prince (via FA), PF: Brandon Bass (via Trade Orl), C: Dwight Howard (via Trade Orl)

With a rested and remotivated Kobe Bryant, a new beginning for Dwight Howard, and a revamped roster, the Lakers could very well be a dynasty again without any period of decline. While Phil Jackson rides off to Montana and the previous era of Laker basketball was laid to rest on Sunday. A brighter and better future may be rising in Tinsel Town and for the rest of the league, they should all be afraid, very afraid.       

Playoff Previews: Round 2

Conference Semis, only two surprise teams still in the party (Hawks & Grizzlies). Let's see what's to come.
Western Conference

4) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. 8) Memphis Grizzlies
It was a great upset for the Grizzlies in the first round, not as great as this one, but still deserving of accolades. They ended an era of San Antonio basketball, and this is a team that will not be beaten easily. They played excellent against the Thunder today, and it looks like Z-Bo and brother Marc will be a huge problem through out the series. That still doesn't change my opinion of the series however. I still think the Thunder will get it together. Kevin Durant needs to be more aggressive and Russell Westbrook needs to stop chucking jumpers repeatedly. Perkins will be more of an enforcer inside and "Iblaka" won't allow Zach Randolph to continue to look like the best power forward in the league. The Grizzles will win one more in the series at home, but the Thunder will move on. 

Series: (4-2) - Oklahoma City Thunder

2) Los Angeles Lakers vs. 3) Dallas Mavericks 
The battle of old men should actually be a very fun series to watch. The Dallas Mavericks are not the same team that falters in the playoffs that we've seen in the past. They are resilient and it was evident in the way they bounced back after blowing game 4 to the Blazers and definitively finishing off the series in six games. As for the Lakers, I still believe their biggest opponent in defending their title is themselves. The Lakers live for the unnecessary drama. They still believe they can turn on the switch whenever they want and that attitude needs to end immediately. Pau Gasol needs to grow a pair and Derek Fisher needs to find a fountain of youth. In the end Kobe won't allow an exit in the semis. The ankle injury? That was Hollywood, he'll carry them to the next round, but how many more series can he do that before it takes its toll. He needs help, and hopefully it comes this series.

Series: (4-2) - Los Angeles Lakers   

Eastern Conference

1) Chicago Bulls vs. 5) Atlanta Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks finally broke their curse of first round exits and they look like their starting to get it together. It's just unfortunate their next series is against the Bulls. I don't see much of a series here and with Captain Kirk most likely out for the series, Derrick Rose should have a field day. When I watched the Bulls in the first round, I expected them to struggle a bit, but the slow starts in games were overblown. This team is the real deal. They handled their business and outplayed the weaker Pacers down the stretch the way they should. The Hawks will probably get one at home, but Derrick Rose is unbelievably great, Joakim Noah is crazy, and they'll take care of the Hawks with ease. ATL Hawk down.

Series: (4-1) - Chicago Bulls

2) Miami Heat vs. 3) Boston Celtics
This is probably the most anticipated series of the semis and the intensity of the series was quite evident today. Although the Celtics dominated the season series, the Miami Heat are a much better team now. They still play the take-turns game with D-Wade and Bron Bron, but the difference is everyone compliments that now very well, and the game is coming easy for Chris Bosh the way it should've been for him all season. For the Celtics, they swept the Knicks, but I can't call Carmelo Anthony vs. The Boston Celtics a legitimate series. They have the experience and they have the big 4, but their lack of firepower and aging core were exposed greatly today. The Celtics still have Rajon Rondo and he is the difference in the series. The ability to takeover a game without scoring goes a long way. James Jones will not score 25 points again in this series and the Celtics will shake game 1 off, I'm positive. Until the road team wins, this is not a series. I've gone with the C's all season and I still believe in experience over LeBron James's playoff curse, so I can't change my pick now. Prove me right Rondo.

Series: (4-3) - Boston Celtics

Best in the League

It's been an excellent season. The Playoffs have gotten off to a great start. Let's hand out some hardware:

Coach of the Year: 1) Tom Thibodeau (CHI): He's coached the team with the best record in the NBA (62-20). He's exceeded all expectations and he's brought a winning attitude from Boston that has stuck with his players. Thibodeau is very deserving of this award in a year where many coaches were deserving, but he's made such a big impact coaching his first season that he receives this award.

2) Gregg Popovich (SAS): When I gave Pops the award in the middle of the season, the Spurs had the best record in the NBA. However, now I know why Gregg Popovich never wins the award. It's because he has stuck to his plan of resting all his starters for the last month of the season, and this year was no exception. The Spurs still finished with the second best record in the NBA but they're decline and injuries towards the end of the season cost Pops this award.
 

3) George Karl (DEN): I'd really like to give this award to Coach Karl because he has worked wonders with all the transition he's had to deal with this season. While he had Carmelo, the Nuggets were winning, and when Melo was traded, the Nuggets were supposed to fall off immensely. Instead, the Nuggets have been one of the best second half teams in the NBA (18-7) and could give a good scare to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the Playoffs. He's had to deal with the most change amongst all coaches and he's done an excellent job.

Most Improved Player: 1) Kevin Love (MIN): I talk about Kevin Love way too much and anyone that reads the blog should already know, "I love Kevin Love!!!" So all I will say is 20 & 15, 53 straight double-doubles, and cologne?

2) LaMarcus Aldridge (POR): This guy right here in my opinion is the second most underrated power forward in the NBA behind Zach Randolph. His numbers were at a career best (22 & 9) and with the knee injuries that plagued Brandon Roy, Aldridge has asserted himself as the leader of the team. He's led his team to the sixth seed in the West for the Playoffs and he's the runner up for Most Improved Player.


3) Dorell Wright (GSW): Career bests in every statistical category, the Warrior's single-season record holder for most threes made, and he led the NBA in threes made this year (194), Dorell Wright had an excellent season. For his talent, it was just a matter of getting minutes to display it. He did that this year and he's asserted himself as one of the better small forwards in the league. If he had played for a winning team and Kevin Love didn't have an amazing season, Dorell could have won this award. Nonetheless, great season. 

 Rookie of the Year: 1) Blake Griffin (LAC): After missing his first year, Blake Beast was worth the wait. He was spectacular from his first game of the season to his last and really, what hasn't already been said about him? I'm speechless. Enjoy the video!

2) John Wall (WSH): I said it in the Midseason Award post and I'll say it again, if this wasn't Blake Griffin's "rookie season" John Wall would have won the award. He had solid numbers all year and finished the season with a prelude of what to expect in the future. I still believe that he will be a superstar in this league and in two years, we might be talking about a season by Wall comparable to this year's MVP. Dougie King!


3) DeMarcus Cousins (SAC): Call him a cry baby, call him a malcontent, call him lazy, but DeMarcus Cousins still had an excellent rookie campaign. Averaging 14 & 9, this is a young big that I think can be a force in the league for years. He has so much raw talent and he's very skilled for a guy with a  6'11, 270 body frame. If he continues to work hard, the game will come real easy for Mr. Cousins.

 Sixth Man of the Year: 1) Lamar Odom (LAL): If you put Lamar Odom on 29 other teams in the NBA, he would most likely be that team's starting power forward. Instead of whining about his role, Mr. Kardashian has had a wonderful season coming off the Laker bench and he's probably been the most consistent player on his team besides Potty Mouth Bryant. LO hasn't had a season like this since 2007, and with superb play, it has officially earned him the Sixth Man of the Year today.


2) Jason Terry (DAL): He hits clutch threes and he's basically a starter that doesn't start. He's in the discussion every year for this award and he's a dirty player, that is all.

3) Jamal Crawford (ATL): 14 & 3, nothing special. He's basically third because I couldn't think of anyone else. Sorry...

Defensive Player of the Year: 1) Dwight Howard (ORL): Dwight Howard seems to win this award every season (3rd straight) and there really is no one like him in the league today that can change the course of a game defensively. No Dikembes, Ben Wallaces, or Bruce Bowens exist in the league anymore. Dwight officially won this award yesterday and there is no one else that deserves it more, congrats Superman.

2) Tyson Chandler (DAL): He gave the Mavericks a little toughness in the post and that's a big deal for Dallas. His numbers on defense aren't great, but it's the effect he's had on his team's overall defense that matters, and because he plays the middle for this team, the Mavericks aren't as soft anymore.


3) Andrew Bogut (MIL) / Kevin Garnett (BOS): If this award was given simply on statistics, then Andrew Bogut would be the winner. However, his team hasn't been that great this year defensively and although Bogut averages around 3 blocks a game and 11 boards it won't get him an award, but follow him on Twitter. He's a funny guy.
As for KG, I still think he's the best on-ball post defender in the NBA. However I also think his defensive prowess was more superior due to having Kendrick Perkins by his side. Without Perks, KG isn't as effective of a defender, but overall, I still don't think any big wants to be checked by DMX.

Most Valuable Player: 1) Derrick Rose (CHI): It was only a matter of time before Derrick Rose took over the league and became the best point guard in the NBA. I don't think anyone expected it this soon, but it was going to happen. The scary thing is that he's only going to get better. Before the season began, I recall him saying that he didn't think there was anything stopping him from being the best player in the league and he's on that path with his first MVP award. This man is an evolution in the new point guard and in the words of my "favorite" commentator, Stacey King, Mr. Rose is just "too big, too strong, too fast, too good."

2) Dwight Howard (ORL): At the beginning of the season, I gave Dwight a lot of crap for not developing much offensively throughout his career and I felt like he didn't have that "it" to be an alpha dog in this league. However he has proven me wrong. Dwight's added a bank shot and softer touch in the post to his offensive repertoire and his defense remains at league's best. Along with the growth in his game, he's had to deal with the roster overhaul and he's put the team on his shoulders and carried them. The Bulls and D-Rose's amazing season were the only things stopping him from winning this award.


3) LeBron James (MIA): I'm pretty sure he's actually really bummed to not win this award, but for LBJ when he signed with the Heat, personal awards were thrown out of the window, and the only thing that should matter to LeBron is winning championships. Regardless of not receiving this award, he's still the best talent in the league, he's still the most difficult player to defend, and he still puts up amazing numbers. LeBron should still be hungry for  personal achievements however and if he carries his team through the Playoffs, he can win the ultimate awards, a Finals MVP and the Larry O'Brien trophy.

Playoff Previews: Round 1

It's been a really, really long time since my last post. Very sorry about that. I've been quite preoccupied with a lot of different things. With the 2010 - 2011 closing up, we're gonna preview the first round match-ups of the playoffs and how everything might turn out.

Western Conference

1) San Antonio Spurs vs. 8) Memphis Grizzlies

Despite the Spurs struggle as of late, they'll still pull through one way or another. If that means going back to relying on the Big Fundamental, then so be it. They've been too good for too long for a team like Memphis to just come in and beat the team in a 7 game series. Even if Manu watches the first round from the bench, the Spurs should have enough experience and depth to get past the Grizzlies and get to that second round.

Final Count: 4 - 1 : Spurs

2) Los Angeles Lakers vs. 7) New Orleans Hornets

All eyes in the West are on Kobe and the Lake squad. Kobe's been to the playoffs a countless number of times. There's just no way that he doesn't move past this first round. Even with that said, Chris Paul is still capable of destroying a team. But...with Phil retiring at the end of the season, Kobe's going to do everything he can to get that 6th ring to tie with the G.O.A.T. With Pau Gasol, Kobe's been to the NBA's highest stage for the past 3 years winning the last two. It would only be fitting if Kobe gets that 6th, just saying.

Final Count: 4 - 2: Lakers

3) Dallas Mavericks vs. 6) Portland Trail Blazers

To me, this is the most interesting match-up in the first round of the Western Conference. Maybe even the whole first round. Portland has been playing well even with all the damage done to their team with injuries (Brandon Roy, Greg Oden, Wesley Matthews). Dirk and the Mavs have been plagued the past few seasons with first and second round exits. Luckily for Mark Cuban, the big German feels that the team he's playing with this season is better than any team he's played with ('06 Finals included). Despite Portland's terrific performance on the court this year, without a healthy Brandon Roy, I just don't see the Blazers going as far as they would like.

Final Count: 4 - 3: Mavs

4) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. 5) Denver Nuggets

Oklahoma City is on the rise. With Durant and Westbrook leading the Thunder, I don't really see any chance of an upset here. The Thunder are too good and too deep for these Denver Nuggets. However, I do applaud the Nuggets on a job well done without their franchise player, Carmelo Anthony. Much better those other two superstarless teams (i.e. Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto Raptors).

Final Count: 4 - 2: Thunder

Eastern Conference

1) Chicago Bulls vs. 8) Indiana Pacers

Everyone knew that Derrick Rose would be good, but this soon? The MVP front runner definitely will not disappoint. If anything, he's only going to shut his haters and doubters up with his performance on the court. The other five times the Bulls had a 60-win season, they were all capped off with a nice championship. With Danny Granger not producing like we've become accustomed to over the past two years. This season, everyone won't only be watching Kobe and LeBron, cause Derrick Rose'll be there too. All I can really say is to get a broom.

Final Count: 4 - 0: Bulls

2) Miami Heat vs. 7) Philadelphia 76ers

LeBron and company are looking for their first knockout together since that infamous summer that we all remember so well. The Heat are coming in hot. With late wins in the season, they snatched that second seed right from Boston. The 76ers really don't fit into the grand scheme of things in the chase for that ring. They're like that little kid that gets picked on. You kinda feel sorry for them, but there's just no way that they're going to get to that second round. I'm sorry to write you off like this Philly, but... I know you probably don't think you can beat the Heat either.

Final Count: 4 -1: Heat

3) Boston Celtics vs. 6) New York Knicks

An old rivalry is renewed in this series of 7. Both teams really haven't been doing well lately. With Perk gone, the Celtics just aren't the same team that's been together for the past three seasons. For the Knicks, this is a very good thing, but the thing is that they haven't exactly been looking like anything special since that Carmelo trade and the break. The New York faithful have been watching a team that's 11 - 12 since March. Rondo and the Celtics have been through a lot of ups and downs this season. Starting off very well with Rondo setting the assists' record through the first five games and finishing the season losing the second seed in a loss to Miami, a team they beat the first three times they met. The Celtics are going to have to depend on the now-brittle Shaq and Jermaine for some help down low, but I think they'll put it out in 6.

Final Count: 4 - 2: Celtics

4) Orlando Magic vs. 5) Atlanta Hawks

I really think that Orlando was a better team with Vince Carter than with Gilbert Arenas, but Orlando hasn't been depending on Gil like they did Vince. Dwight Howard has made vast improvements on his post game, and averaged a career-high 22.9 points per game. To me, Atlanta really hasn't improved much over the past few seasons. They're the same exact team they were last season. Orlando beat Atlanta last year, and they'll do it again this year.

Final Count: 4 - 2: Magic

10 Things: Playoff Preview

It's been awhile since we've posted one of these. College basketball has taken my basketball interest the last month, but I'll try to shake off the rust. Back to the professionals and the playoffs are about a week away:

10) Help is on the way?: Before I get back to the men who get paid to play the game, the focus begins on the prospects who will soon get paid to play the game, like the beast pictured above. This is a pretty weak draft class, considered one of the worst in years, and it's quite evident by 4 European players being in the top 10. One wasn't even allowed to play for Kentucky this year, and I just don't like the Euros. They usually don't succeed, except for Action Dirk. I really don't blame a lot of the college players for staying in college either (Jared Sullinger) because who really wants to play for the Cavaliers or Raptors? As for the players that will be in the draft, there are a few that will benefit off a weak class (Kemba Walker <3, Jimmer Fredette) and there are a couple guys that I feel will be really solid NBA players (Brandon Knight, Terrence Jones, Kawhi Leonard, & Chris Singleton). However I only see three potential stars in this draft (Derrick Williams, Kyrie Irving, & Perry Jones).

9) The Grizzly Grind: The Grizzlies have had one nationally-televised game all season, they're superstar is out for the season, his supposed sidekick has flamed out, and their 2nd pick in the draft last season was traded at the deadline. Yet I'm talking about the eighth-seeded team in the Western Conference. These Grizzlies have been one of the biggest surprises of the season, Lionel Hollins deserves a lot of credit, and I personally feel they've been under the radar all year. What makes them work? A grind-out style and good defense true to the character of the roster. Zach Randolph is one of the best power forwards in the NBA that no one respects, Mike Conley is living up to expectations and Tony Allen is having a career year, don't let the stats fool you. They also get contributions from guys like Shane Battier, Darrell Arthur, Sam Young, and the other Gasol brother. This team really isn't much to watch but they've earned their success and it's nice to see them in the playoffs again.

8) Philly Fun: The bottom feeders of the Eastern Conference are always a joke because under .500 can still mean a playoff birth and for the Philadelphia 76ers that's good enough for the 7th, maybe even the 6th seed in the conference. However, I'm not going to take away from the improvement of this team under Doug Collins. Doug Collins turns teams around. He has always done that his first season coaching a new team. As for the team, I'm not too thrilled with them, but they do have a lot of depth and the ultimate poor man's LeBron James. I really like their point guards, Jrue Holiday and Louis Williams, and it's great to see the resurgence of Elton Brand, who gets a lot of crap for his ridiculous contract. Other than that, this team is not very fun to watch, and they're really not that good. They made the playoffs though, congratulations Philly, Will Smith is somewhere smiling.

7) Broken but Still Buzzing:  From watching the NBA the last few years, I've learned one thing about the New Orleans Hornets. Never doubt the capabilities of Chris Paul. I am willing to give the "Best point guard of the NBA" tag to that guy running the show in Chicago, but Chris Paul even with declining numbers is still in the discussion. He makes his teammates better and gets the most out of all their skills. For the playoffs, he'll need to continue that and put the team on his shoulders after losing his "safety blanket" for this season and possibly a majority of next season. Acquiring Carl Landry may now be one of the biggest trades of the deadline and Ariza and Okafor will need to pick up their play if they even want to compete. The goal for the final games of the season is to get that 6th seed and avoid the Lakers. The one thing I can guarantee you from this team is that CP3 will be ready and he'll put on a show when it matters. I cannot wait.   

6) The Portland Push: Since the Gerald Wallace trade at the deadline, the Blazers have been playing some quality hoop. Playing with a smaller lineup has seemed to work and the depth of this team is one of the best in the league. Before their embarrassing loss to the Warriors on Tuesday, the Blazers had won eight straight at home and had quality wins against the Spurs, Thunder, and Mavs. With a potential series against the Mavs in the first round, the Blazers do have a chance to advance to the second round especially with the match-up problem LaMarcus Aldridge presents. I'm not the biggest fan of the Blazers, but it pains me to see how good this team could really be if knee injuries didn't take away Brandon Roy's promising career at only 26 (in my opinion the third best shooting guard in the league before injuries), and Greg Oden's potential. With that being said, they're still no joke and can make noise come April 16th.

 
5) Maverick Mystery: Isn't that lady pictured above gorgeous? Well that my friends is J.J. Barea's girlfriend and former Miss Universe 2006. I don't understand how foreign backup point guards in the NBA do it, but they do it and it enrages me, but that's besides the point. J.J. Barea's team is the focus, I'm sorry I mean Dirk Nowitzki's team is the focus and they're heading into their most hated time of the year, the playoffs. I think any NBA fan knows that besides 2006, the Mavs choke in the playoffs every year. This year's team is pretty good though and they can compete with any team in the league. They're very experienced and they have the German, but I just don't see them getting past the second round because they're soft, they're always soft, and they're led by the German, which is actually a bad thing too because he's soft. Then again this team can surprise and that is why they remain a mystery till the playoffs are in action.

4) Thunder Rolling: I don't really want to boast about my Thunder playing well, but they're playing pretty well. Kendrick Perkins is fitting in perfectly and Serge Ibaka has embraced the starting power forward position perfectly. I've gotten past the overhype of this team because they're actually living up to it and a lot of analysts are willing to say this is the second best team in the West. I really like their chances if they have to play the battered Spurs in the second round, but I'm very concerned about those new Nuggets in the first round, but that should be one hell of a series. I'm positive KD and Russ will be ready when the playoffs start.   


3) Bashful Bulls: The Chicago Bulls are certainly not. This is the team that everybody is talking about and the team with the league's MVP. They deserve all the attention and they deserve all the credit for being the best team in the NBA this season. They play basketball the way it should be played, beating the bad teams by a ton, and finding ways to beat the elites of the league as well. Tom Thibodeau is the coach of the year and they will certainly give the Heat or Celtics a run for their money in the East. They will be the one seed in the East and they will be very dangerous. They've beaten the C's pretty bad this year, but I'm not willing to give them the edge just yet because you can never discredit playoff experience, and until I see the Bulls play a round of playoff basketball together, I'm not completely sold.

 2) Better Off Without You: The Denver Nuggets since the Carmelo Anthony trade have become my third favorite team in the NBA. Their 15-5 since the trade and they are quite a joy to watch. What has been the key to their success? Defense. Yes, the Denver Nuggets are playing defense with an emphasis of team basketball. Their leader is Kenyon Martin and their superstar is by committee each night. Aaron Afflalo, Nene, Ty Lawson, Raymond Felton, Wilson Chandler, Al Harrington, Danilo Gallinari, and J.R. Smith have all had games where they became the focal point of the offense. Their chemistry is amazing thanks to George Karl's excellent coaching, and I hate how they most likely will have to play the Thunder in the first round.Win or lose, they'll certainly provide playoff excitement.

As for that other team involved in the trade, the expectations were for the New York Knicks to secure a top four seeding in the East for the playoffs, but that has not been the case. Instead, the Knicks are playing .500 basketball since acquiring Carmelo (12-12) and are fighting to secure the sixth seed from the Philadelphia 76ers. The all important chemistry is lacking and Carmelo and Amare do not seem to play well together. The ball sticks too much, and Mike D'Antoni's teams never play defense, but since the trade they actually do not play any defense at all. The team lacks depth and besides the recent play of Toney Douglas, no one else besides Stat, Melo, and Chauncey have shown up. I didn't expect the Knicks to be title contenders this season anyways, and this is all a prequel to what lies ahead. So for the Knicks to even be back in the playoffs and to acquire their franchise superstar this season, the Knicks have accomplished plenty this year. They'll be the biggest winner of the trade eventually. Now it's only a matter of when the Knicks' future plans reach fruition.

1) Respect the Vets: All season long, the talk has been of the Miami Heat, the Chicago Bulls, and the rest of the young rising teams in the league that have peaked ahead of schedule. The teams left out of discussion are the veteran teams. The teams who have been there and done that. The reason is because of injuries and lack-luster play as of late, but I'm a firm believer in experience come playoff time and you can never discredit that. Want to doubt Timmy and the Spurs, why don't you ask him and his 4 championship rings if he cares. Down in Socal, I think the best player on the planet is glad to have everyone sleeping on his team because it just adds more fuel to his fire, and the Black Mamba doesn't need extra motivation with Jordan's legacy at his reach. The only team that worries me is the Celtics. They are actually unhealthy and trading Kendrick Perkins is looking like a bigger mistake with each passing day. However, they are the reigning Eastern Conference champions and I still believe they will be playing into June. The veteran teams know when the real season starts. They'll be ready to play, and for those promising young teams to breakthrough, the route is through San Antonio, Boston, and Los Angeles.