Showing posts with label Miami Heat. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Miami Heat. Show all posts
Saturday, July 12, 2014
LEBRON JAMES RETURNS TO CLEVELAND
After much waiting, LeBron James has finally loosened his grasp on the NBA and its future by making up his mind and deciding to return to Cleveland, instead of Miami and the "Big 3." LeBron grew up in Akron, Ohio, a city very close to Cleveland, and still lives there during the NBA offseason. He clearly loves his home and feels a connection with it "greater than basketball," as he said. In a piece on SI.com, LeBron dictated his reasons behind this decision, and the clear regrets that he had regarding the way in which he chose to leave his home four years ago. The Cavaliers and their fans chose to put ESPN's "The Decision" behind them and welcome "The King" back to his throne with open arms (well, how can you blame them, for James is the best player in the world), and LeBron chose to put behind him Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert's nasty letter from that fateful day in 2010 that described James as a coward, quitter, and traitor. Things in Cleveland have been looking up from a sports persepective lately, as the Browns drafted Johnny Manziel and now the Cavs have a savior. Despite the fact that James might have to be more patient with his new team and might not win another championship as soon as he might have in Miami, it is hard not respect him for choosing what is more important. LeBron James is going home, and they sure are glad to have him back.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
LeBron James Opts Out of Contract With Heat
Since news broke that Carmelo Anthony would be entering free agency this offseason, LeBron James has announced to the Miami Heat that he will be exercising his early-termination clause. Despite Pat Riley's public attempts to keep James in Miami, he seems determined to have the same flexibility that he was afforded after the 2010 season. As James is the best player in the world, there will obviously be many teams interested in acquiring him, and the way he deals with all the attention this time around will go a long way towards the way he is viewed across the country (hopefully there is no "The Decision" this time).
James has been connected to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Los Angeles Lakers, the Houston Rockets, and even the New York Knicks. It is still possible that LeBron returns to Miami, but at this point the future of the "Big 3" is in serious question. Things are really starting to heat up around the NBA, thats for sure.
James has been connected to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Los Angeles Lakers, the Houston Rockets, and even the New York Knicks. It is still possible that LeBron returns to Miami, but at this point the future of the "Big 3" is in serious question. Things are really starting to heat up around the NBA, thats for sure.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Carmelo Anthony Opts Out of Contract With Knicks
As Carmelo Anthony has officially told the Knicks that he will exercise his player option for the 2014-15 season, he will become a free agent on July 1st. The Knicks' president Phil Jackson has publicly voiced many times that he wanted Anthony to opt-in, and has tried privately to convince Anthony that the Knicks can bring in another star in order to compete for a championship next year. However, they have some salary cap problems as Amar'e Stoudemire will make $23.4 million next year, Tyson Chandler will make $14.6 million, and Andrea Bargnani will make $11.5 million.
It is still possible that Anthony will return the Knicks, but now other teams have a chance to sign him as well, like the Chicago Bulls, Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, Boston Celtics, or Miami Heat. Carmelo has recently been looking into life in Chicago, while Rajon Rondo has publicly voiced his wish for Anthony in a Celtics uniform. If Pat Riley convinces him to head to Miami, he would have to take a significant pay cut in order to play with James, Wade, and Bosh, as would those three stars. If nothing else, it will make this summer a whole lot more interesting.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
SAN ANTONIO SPURS WIN THE 2014 NBA FINALS
The San Antonio Spurs have won their 5th NBA Championship in team history (all since 1999), with an incredible 104-87 Game 5 win to take the series 4-1 against the Miami Heat. LeBron James played well, with 31 points, but he wasn't able to play up to his best-player-in-the-world status and take over the game. Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard seemed to match LeBron blow for blow, as he had a stat line of 34 minutes, 22 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, and made 3 for 4 3-point attempts. Australian point guard Patty Mills had an insane performance off the bench with 17 points while going 5 for 8 from 3-point range. Manu Ginobili seemed to turn back the clock with an other-wordly performance, draining threes with hands in his face and making plays consistently by driving to the lane, including an incredible one-handed dunk. Tony Parker didn't even have a point until late in the third quarter, but at that point the Spurs were already put by 20 points.
A total group effort by the Spurs, once again, won this game for them, and coach Gregg Popovich deserves all the credit in the world. With Ray Allen starting for the Heat in place of a struggling Mario Chalmers, Miami got off to a blazing start and was leading 22-6 at one point in the first quarter, as the Spurs missed 11 of their first 12 shots. However, Popovich got his team to come storming back behind a bench that outscored Miami's 47 to 24. The Heat just had no one to turn to since they started Allen, and the starters themselves couldn't even do any damage after the initial rush. LeBron James is now 2 for 5 in the NBA Finals, a mark which will most definitely affect his legacy, and his hopes at a three-peat are officially over.
These Finals have proven that one player does not win a series, but a team does, as well as the fact that age is nothing but a number (Tim Duncan is 38, Manu Ginobili is 36, and Tony Parker is 32). Truly every player on the Spurs deserves all the credit in the world for this win, especially the one-and-only Tim Duncan, who may have played his final game in front of the San Antonio faithful (he is a free agent after this season and is 38 years old). Tim Duncan has exemplified toughness, loyalty, and hard work throughout his 17 years in the NBA, and will leave as one of the best players to have every played the game. He now has 5 championship rings, and a possibly final stat line of 33 minutes, 14 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, and made 5 for 10 field goal attempts. As each starter for the Spurs checked out of the game at the end of the fourth quarter one-by-one, each received a standing ovation, but none was louder than cheers for Tim Duncan. And deservedly so.
A total group effort by the Spurs, once again, won this game for them, and coach Gregg Popovich deserves all the credit in the world. With Ray Allen starting for the Heat in place of a struggling Mario Chalmers, Miami got off to a blazing start and was leading 22-6 at one point in the first quarter, as the Spurs missed 11 of their first 12 shots. However, Popovich got his team to come storming back behind a bench that outscored Miami's 47 to 24. The Heat just had no one to turn to since they started Allen, and the starters themselves couldn't even do any damage after the initial rush. LeBron James is now 2 for 5 in the NBA Finals, a mark which will most definitely affect his legacy, and his hopes at a three-peat are officially over. These Finals have proven that one player does not win a series, but a team does, as well as the fact that age is nothing but a number (Tim Duncan is 38, Manu Ginobili is 36, and Tony Parker is 32). Truly every player on the Spurs deserves all the credit in the world for this win, especially the one-and-only Tim Duncan, who may have played his final game in front of the San Antonio faithful (he is a free agent after this season and is 38 years old). Tim Duncan has exemplified toughness, loyalty, and hard work throughout his 17 years in the NBA, and will leave as one of the best players to have every played the game. He now has 5 championship rings, and a possibly final stat line of 33 minutes, 14 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, and made 5 for 10 field goal attempts. As each starter for the Spurs checked out of the game at the end of the fourth quarter one-by-one, each received a standing ovation, but none was louder than cheers for Tim Duncan. And deservedly so.
Thursday, June 5, 2014
The Ultimate NBA Finals Preview 2014
2014 NBA Finals: Miami Heat vs. San Antonio Spurs
Game 1: Thursday, June 5th, 9:00 pm, @San Antonio
Game 2: Sunday, June 8th, 8:00 pm, @San Antonio
Game 3: Tuesday, June 10th, 9:00 pm, @Miami
Game 4: Thursday, June 12th, 9:00 pm, @Miami
Game 5 (if necessary): Sunday, June 15th, 8:00 pm, @San Antonio
Game 6 (if necessary): Tuesday, June 17th, 9:00 pm, @Miami
Game 7 (if necessary): Friday, June 20th, 9:00 pm, @San Antonio
How They Got There:
The Spurs finished the regular season with the #1 seed in the Western Conference and the best record in the NBA at 62-20. Adding to San Antonio's incredible season is the fact that they have an average age of 28.4 years and were coming off a run to the finals the previous year. Amazingly, they actually improved upon their 58-24 record from a season ago, a feat which can no doubt be attributed to great coaching, veteran leadership, and a hunger to avenge their loss to the Heat in the finals. This year, the Spurs had to face a vastly underrated Dallas Mavericks team in the First Round, in a series that ended up going to seven games. Then, they clashed with the Portland Trail Blazers in the Conference Semifinals, one of the best young teams in the league headlined by Damien Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge. They took care of business in five games, then met the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals for the second year in a a row. After winning the first two games, the Spurs struggled to find an answer to the returned Serge Ibaka in the next two. But, true to form, the Spurs stepped up their game when it mattered most, and won games five and six in order to take the series, including an unbelievable Game 6 in Oklahoma City that was perhaps the Spurs' best performance of the entire season.
The Heat came in second place in the Eastern Conference, falling just two games behind the Indiana Pacers, with a record of 54-28. As a team with very few changes from last year's championship-winning team and an average age of 29.4 years (higher than the Spurs!), the Heat played very well in spurts and came on strong towards the second half of the season. Showing very few signs of a championship hangover, they breezed into the playoffs in what was an incredibly weak Eastern Conference, although having trouble with the Pacers during the regular season. In the First Round of the playoffs, Miami swept the overachieving Charlotte Bobcats, then didn't need to work much harder at taking down the high-priced Brooklyn Nets in five games in the Conference Semifinals. The Nets injured stars, in Deron Williams and Brooke Lopez, as well as their aging veterans, in Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, were no match for the ultra-athletic Miami Heat. Things got interesting, however, in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Pacers, where the Heat were able to avenge their early season losses despite a valiant effort by the Pacers. Lance Stephenson's antics and Roy Hibbert's disappearance were almost laughable compared to the professional and efficient way the Heat took care of business.
Key Stats:
Key Matchups:
LeBron has averaged 27.1 points per game these playoffs, 6.8 rebounds per game, 5.0 assists per game, and 1.8 steals per game. It is pretty much impossible to expect anybody to match that. Leonard's job will be to guard the future hall-of-famer for much of the series, a job which will cause him to focus more on defense than offense. He has averaged only 13.3 points per game this postseason, but with other more high-profile stars on the team the Spurs have not needed much more from him, since he has made up for it on the glass, averaging 6.8 rebounds per game an, and by averaging 1.72 steals per game. Look for LeBron to continue to put up huge offensive numbers but be reduced to fewer rebounds, as Leonard will put most of his focus on guarding James. However, in order to take pressure off the Spurs' stars, Leonard has to be an effective complimentary scorer as he has been so far these playoffs.
Wade has been nothing short of resurgent in the last few weeks, showing all his doubters what a different (and dominant) player he is when healthy. In fact, he may be the player on the Heat most crucial to their title hopes, as he can truly take over the transition game that is so effective when he and LeBron run the floor after the Heat's stingy defense forces a turnover. He has averaged 18.7 points per game in the playoffs with 4.3 assists, playing like a true offensive force. Ginobili has been wildly inconsistent this season, but when he gets hot, there is no stopping him. He has averaged 14.3 points per game with 4.1 assists per game, not to mention his deadly corner three when Tony Parker drives in the lane and kicks it out. Whoever takes control of this matchup will give his team a major advantage in the series.
Bosh has been a consistent scorer this postseason, with 15.2 points per game, and a solid rebounder as well, with 5.7 rebounds per game. He also boasts an incredibly underrated 3-point shot that he shoots at a rate of 41%. Tim Duncan has been nothing short of a best in the playoffs, not only by averaging 16.5 points per game, but especially by averaging 8.9 rebounds per game. Look for Duncan to dominate the glass over Bosh, but if Duncan gets too focused on protecting the paint and Bosh sneaks to the corner and hits a couple of threes, then the Spurs will be in trouble. A lot depends on Bosh's outside shot, but since he has proven it to be effective so far, Duncan will need to follow Bosh all around the court and leave the rim-protecting to Tiago Splitter. Offensively for Duncan, his arsenal of post moves should be no match more Bosh's defense, as long as the San Antonio big-man isn't too tired from guarding Bosh at the three-point line.
These two teams are the two best three-point shooting teams in the league, so naturally, whichever team's three-point shooters have a better series will go a long way towards determining the winner. So far in the playoffs, Green has shot threes at an astounding rate of 48.1%, and Belinelli at 41.4%. Ray Allen has shot threes these playoffs at a rate of 38.1%, with Lewis shooting at 32.4%. The numbers seem to suggest that the clear favorites in this matchup are Green and Belinelli of the Spurs, but it will be hard to bet against the all-time best three-point shooter in Ray Allen. However, when the Spurs get hot from beyond the arc, they are nearly impossible to stop. Look for San Antonio to win the three-point battle, but in a clutch situation, much like last year, look for Ray Allen to come up big and knock down the shot.
The clear edge in this matchup goes to Parker, who has averaged 17.2 points per game these playoffs, as well as 4.9 assists per game. Chalmers has only averaged 7.1 points per game, while Cole has scored 5.1. The real key for the Heat's point guards will be to keep Parker away from the basket, because when he drives into the lane he is an incredible finisher as well as very savvy at dishing out the ball to the wing, where his teammates can hit the three. Parker's goal this series will be to facilitate the Spurs' offense, while still not allowing Chalmers or Cole to hit a big three-pointer to give momentum to the Heat, which they have been known to do. Look for Tony Parker to dominate this matchup and have a big say in the way this series goes.
Prediction: Spurs in 7
Game 1: Thursday, June 5th, 9:00 pm, @San Antonio
Game 2: Sunday, June 8th, 8:00 pm, @San Antonio
Game 3: Tuesday, June 10th, 9:00 pm, @Miami
Game 4: Thursday, June 12th, 9:00 pm, @Miami
Game 5 (if necessary): Sunday, June 15th, 8:00 pm, @San Antonio
Game 6 (if necessary): Tuesday, June 17th, 9:00 pm, @Miami
Game 7 (if necessary): Friday, June 20th, 9:00 pm, @San Antonio
How They Got There:
The Spurs finished the regular season with the #1 seed in the Western Conference and the best record in the NBA at 62-20. Adding to San Antonio's incredible season is the fact that they have an average age of 28.4 years and were coming off a run to the finals the previous year. Amazingly, they actually improved upon their 58-24 record from a season ago, a feat which can no doubt be attributed to great coaching, veteran leadership, and a hunger to avenge their loss to the Heat in the finals. This year, the Spurs had to face a vastly underrated Dallas Mavericks team in the First Round, in a series that ended up going to seven games. Then, they clashed with the Portland Trail Blazers in the Conference Semifinals, one of the best young teams in the league headlined by Damien Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge. They took care of business in five games, then met the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals for the second year in a a row. After winning the first two games, the Spurs struggled to find an answer to the returned Serge Ibaka in the next two. But, true to form, the Spurs stepped up their game when it mattered most, and won games five and six in order to take the series, including an unbelievable Game 6 in Oklahoma City that was perhaps the Spurs' best performance of the entire season.
The Heat came in second place in the Eastern Conference, falling just two games behind the Indiana Pacers, with a record of 54-28. As a team with very few changes from last year's championship-winning team and an average age of 29.4 years (higher than the Spurs!), the Heat played very well in spurts and came on strong towards the second half of the season. Showing very few signs of a championship hangover, they breezed into the playoffs in what was an incredibly weak Eastern Conference, although having trouble with the Pacers during the regular season. In the First Round of the playoffs, Miami swept the overachieving Charlotte Bobcats, then didn't need to work much harder at taking down the high-priced Brooklyn Nets in five games in the Conference Semifinals. The Nets injured stars, in Deron Williams and Brooke Lopez, as well as their aging veterans, in Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, were no match for the ultra-athletic Miami Heat. Things got interesting, however, in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Pacers, where the Heat were able to avenge their early season losses despite a valiant effort by the Pacers. Lance Stephenson's antics and Roy Hibbert's disappearance were almost laughable compared to the professional and efficient way the Heat took care of business.Key Stats:
- San Antonio ranked 3rd in the league in points scored per game (106.6) during the postseason, while Miami ranked 8th (99.1).
- Miami ranked 2nd in the league in points allowed per game (92.1) during the postseason, while San Antonio ranked 8th (101.8).
- The Heat ranked 1st in the league in 3-point percentage (39.5%) during the postseason, while the Spurs ranked 2nd (39.2%).
- Miami had the fewest turnovers allowed per game (10.9) during the postseason, while San Antonio had the 4th-fewest (12.2).
- Miami and San Antonio tied for the 5th-most turnovers forced per game (13.7) during the postseason.
- The Spurs have played 18 playoff games so far, while the Heat have played 15.
- The Spurs are 35-18 all-time against the Heat in the regular season, but the Heat are 4-3 all time against the Spurs in the playoffs (last year's finals was their only postseason meeting).
Key Matchups:
- LeBron James vs. Kawhi Leonard
LeBron has averaged 27.1 points per game these playoffs, 6.8 rebounds per game, 5.0 assists per game, and 1.8 steals per game. It is pretty much impossible to expect anybody to match that. Leonard's job will be to guard the future hall-of-famer for much of the series, a job which will cause him to focus more on defense than offense. He has averaged only 13.3 points per game this postseason, but with other more high-profile stars on the team the Spurs have not needed much more from him, since he has made up for it on the glass, averaging 6.8 rebounds per game an, and by averaging 1.72 steals per game. Look for LeBron to continue to put up huge offensive numbers but be reduced to fewer rebounds, as Leonard will put most of his focus on guarding James. However, in order to take pressure off the Spurs' stars, Leonard has to be an effective complimentary scorer as he has been so far these playoffs.
- Dwayne Wade vs. Manu Ginobili
Wade has been nothing short of resurgent in the last few weeks, showing all his doubters what a different (and dominant) player he is when healthy. In fact, he may be the player on the Heat most crucial to their title hopes, as he can truly take over the transition game that is so effective when he and LeBron run the floor after the Heat's stingy defense forces a turnover. He has averaged 18.7 points per game in the playoffs with 4.3 assists, playing like a true offensive force. Ginobili has been wildly inconsistent this season, but when he gets hot, there is no stopping him. He has averaged 14.3 points per game with 4.1 assists per game, not to mention his deadly corner three when Tony Parker drives in the lane and kicks it out. Whoever takes control of this matchup will give his team a major advantage in the series.
- Chris Bosh vs. Tim Duncan
Bosh has been a consistent scorer this postseason, with 15.2 points per game, and a solid rebounder as well, with 5.7 rebounds per game. He also boasts an incredibly underrated 3-point shot that he shoots at a rate of 41%. Tim Duncan has been nothing short of a best in the playoffs, not only by averaging 16.5 points per game, but especially by averaging 8.9 rebounds per game. Look for Duncan to dominate the glass over Bosh, but if Duncan gets too focused on protecting the paint and Bosh sneaks to the corner and hits a couple of threes, then the Spurs will be in trouble. A lot depends on Bosh's outside shot, but since he has proven it to be effective so far, Duncan will need to follow Bosh all around the court and leave the rim-protecting to Tiago Splitter. Offensively for Duncan, his arsenal of post moves should be no match more Bosh's defense, as long as the San Antonio big-man isn't too tired from guarding Bosh at the three-point line.- Danny Green/Marco Belinelli vs. Ray Allen/Rashard Lewis
These two teams are the two best three-point shooting teams in the league, so naturally, whichever team's three-point shooters have a better series will go a long way towards determining the winner. So far in the playoffs, Green has shot threes at an astounding rate of 48.1%, and Belinelli at 41.4%. Ray Allen has shot threes these playoffs at a rate of 38.1%, with Lewis shooting at 32.4%. The numbers seem to suggest that the clear favorites in this matchup are Green and Belinelli of the Spurs, but it will be hard to bet against the all-time best three-point shooter in Ray Allen. However, when the Spurs get hot from beyond the arc, they are nearly impossible to stop. Look for San Antonio to win the three-point battle, but in a clutch situation, much like last year, look for Ray Allen to come up big and knock down the shot.- Tony Parker vs. Mario Chalmers/Norris Cole
The clear edge in this matchup goes to Parker, who has averaged 17.2 points per game these playoffs, as well as 4.9 assists per game. Chalmers has only averaged 7.1 points per game, while Cole has scored 5.1. The real key for the Heat's point guards will be to keep Parker away from the basket, because when he drives into the lane he is an incredible finisher as well as very savvy at dishing out the ball to the wing, where his teammates can hit the three. Parker's goal this series will be to facilitate the Spurs' offense, while still not allowing Chalmers or Cole to hit a big three-pointer to give momentum to the Heat, which they have been known to do. Look for Tony Parker to dominate this matchup and have a big say in the way this series goes.Prediction: Spurs in 7
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
2013 NBA Christmas Day Preview
The NBA's tradition of Christmas Day games continues this year with an onslaught of great games from noon to night. Here is a preview of each one (all times are in Eastern Standard Time):
Chicago Bulls (10-16) at Brooklyn Nets (9-18), 12:00 pm
Both teams enter this matchup having performed well below expectations, as both were supposed to contend with the Heat and Pacers at the top of the Eastern Conference. However, neither currently hold a playoff spot in the incredibly weak East, and don't seem to be improvin
g much because their frustration and desperation have impeded their progress. In terms of this game, Chicago is the much better defensive team, allowing 93.3 ppg (2nd best in the league) to Brooklyn's 102.6, but the Nets are scoring 97.6 ppg to the Bulls' 91.8 (worst in the league), although both are in the bottom third of the league in that category. Chicago is clearly not the same without Derrick Rose, and now have nobody to match up with Deron Williams, while Brooklyn has lost Brook Lopez and now have few answers for Joakim Noah and Carlos Boozer. My prediction is that the Bulls' stingy defense will halt the Nets who will continue to grow more flustered with their situation, and by the end of the game, although he may say otherwise, Jason Kidd will be wishing he had never taken the job as coach of the Nets.
Prediction: Bulls 94, Nets 75
Oklahoma City Thunder (22-5) at New York Knicks (9-18), 2:30 pm
The Thunder have the fourth-highest point differential in the league (+7.1) while the Knicks are a -2.9. Carmelo Anthony is out while the Thunder have two of the most explosive players in the league in Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. None of this adds up to good things for New York, except for one thing that could give the Knicks a glimmer of hope: they are very good at securing the basketball, committing only 11.8 turnovers per game (lowest in the league) while OKC commits an average of 16.0 (fourth-highest in the league). The Knicks could surprisingly make this game interesting, also because of the improved shot selection that they are sure to have with Anthony sidelined. Their players should take more high-percentage shots (except for Andrea Bargnani...) which would certainly come as a surprise to the possibly-complacent Thunder, causing the game to be closer than expected.
Prediction: Thunder 110, Knicks 106 (OT)
Miami Heat (21-6) at Los Angeles Lakers (13-15), 5:00 pm
The Lakers are always the center of a huge controversial story or scandal, but no one will be talking about them after the Heat thrash them on Christmas. Miami has a point differential of +7.8 (tied for second highest in the league) to LA's -3.9, and the Heat force 17.3 turnovers per game (most in the league) while the Lakers only force 13.3 (third-worst in the league). The Lakers are becoming less and less motivated to play for Mike D'Antoni, and will, frankly, just fail to show up against the defending champions. With Kobe Bryant out, the Lakers have nobody to even come close to matching LeBron, who might score between 30-40 points in this game, even with the extra rest that he should receive in the fourth quarter. The Lakers are too old to run with the Heat, and are in for a rough day.
Prediction: Miami 107, LA 81
Houston Rockets (18-11) at San Antonio Spurs (22-6), 8:00 pm
The Rockets and Spurs are both top teams in the Western Conference, but the difference between them has to do with execution. The Spurs are more polished around the edges and clearly more experienced for the big moments, while the Rockets have more pure talent but lack ball security (16.4 turnovers committed per game, thi
rd-worst in the league) and are weak in certain specific areas of the game (James Harden's poor shot selection and Dwight Howard's inability to shoot free throws are examples). This game will be close, as is every game for the Rockets, and although the Spurs may win 8 times out of 10, this might be one of the times when Harden's pure scoring ability and Howard's incredible rebounding ability triumph over Greg Popovich's well-coached and refined game plan. The game should be close, but the Spur's execution in big moments won't matter when all is said and done, as Harden will hit a couple of big shots to quell San Antonio's comeback, scoring about 25-35 in total while Howard grabs rebounds into the high teens.
Prediction: Rockets 98, Spurs 92
Los Angeles Clippers (20-9) at Golden State Warriors (18-13), 10:30 pm
The Clippers go as Chris Paul goes, and the Warriors go as Stephen Curry goes. However, the Warriors rely more on their incredible 3-point shooting (40.3%, second-highest in the league) than anything else, so if they are hitting shots from behind the arc, then they will win most of their games. However, the Clippers, under defensive-minded Doc Rivers, are allowing the lowest 3-point percent
age to opponents in the league (32.0%). The question here is if defense will prevail over offenses, and in most cases it is more likely that the 3-point shooters are able to restrained, which would spell trouble for the Warriors. The Clippers, on the other hand, have multiple ways to score, whether its Chris Paul's shooting or penetration, DeAndre Jordan or Blake Griffin's low post work, or JJ Redick's 3-point shooting, they should be able capitalize on the Warrior's misses from long range, and take the victory in a hard fought battle between teams that could meet up in the playoffs.
Prediction: Clippers 101, Warriors 90
Chicago Bulls (10-16) at Brooklyn Nets (9-18), 12:00 pm
Both teams enter this matchup having performed well below expectations, as both were supposed to contend with the Heat and Pacers at the top of the Eastern Conference. However, neither currently hold a playoff spot in the incredibly weak East, and don't seem to be improving much because their frustration and desperation have impeded their progress. In terms of this game, Chicago is the much better defensive team, allowing 93.3 ppg (2nd best in the league) to Brooklyn's 102.6, but the Nets are scoring 97.6 ppg to the Bulls' 91.8 (worst in the league), although both are in the bottom third of the league in that category. Chicago is clearly not the same without Derrick Rose, and now have nobody to match up with Deron Williams, while Brooklyn has lost Brook Lopez and now have few answers for Joakim Noah and Carlos Boozer. My prediction is that the Bulls' stingy defense will halt the Nets who will continue to grow more flustered with their situation, and by the end of the game, although he may say otherwise, Jason Kidd will be wishing he had never taken the job as coach of the Nets.
Prediction: Bulls 94, Nets 75
Oklahoma City Thunder (22-5) at New York Knicks (9-18), 2:30 pm
The Thunder have the fourth-highest point differential in the league (+7.1) while the Knicks are a -2.9. Carmelo Anthony is out while the Thunder have two of the most explosive players in the league in Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. None of this adds up to good things for New York, except for one thing that could give the Knicks a glimmer of hope: they are very good at securing the basketball, committing only 11.8 turnovers per game (lowest in the league) while OKC commits an average of 16.0 (fourth-highest in the league). The Knicks could surprisingly make this game interesting, also because of the improved shot selection that they are sure to have with Anthony sidelined. Their players should take more high-percentage shots (except for Andrea Bargnani...) which would certainly come as a surprise to the possibly-complacent Thunder, causing the game to be closer than expected.Prediction: Thunder 110, Knicks 106 (OT)
Miami Heat (21-6) at Los Angeles Lakers (13-15), 5:00 pm
The Lakers are always the center of a huge controversial story or scandal, but no one will be talking about them after the Heat thrash them on Christmas. Miami has a point differential of +7.8 (tied for second highest in the league) to LA's -3.9, and the Heat force 17.3 turnovers per game (most in the league) while the Lakers only force 13.3 (third-worst in the league). The Lakers are becoming less and less motivated to play for Mike D'Antoni, and will, frankly, just fail to show up against the defending champions. With Kobe Bryant out, the Lakers have nobody to even come close to matching LeBron, who might score between 30-40 points in this game, even with the extra rest that he should receive in the fourth quarter. The Lakers are too old to run with the Heat, and are in for a rough day.Prediction: Miami 107, LA 81
Houston Rockets (18-11) at San Antonio Spurs (22-6), 8:00 pm
The Rockets and Spurs are both top teams in the Western Conference, but the difference between them has to do with execution. The Spurs are more polished around the edges and clearly more experienced for the big moments, while the Rockets have more pure talent but lack ball security (16.4 turnovers committed per game, third-worst in the league) and are weak in certain specific areas of the game (James Harden's poor shot selection and Dwight Howard's inability to shoot free throws are examples). This game will be close, as is every game for the Rockets, and although the Spurs may win 8 times out of 10, this might be one of the times when Harden's pure scoring ability and Howard's incredible rebounding ability triumph over Greg Popovich's well-coached and refined game plan. The game should be close, but the Spur's execution in big moments won't matter when all is said and done, as Harden will hit a couple of big shots to quell San Antonio's comeback, scoring about 25-35 in total while Howard grabs rebounds into the high teens.
Prediction: Rockets 98, Spurs 92
Los Angeles Clippers (20-9) at Golden State Warriors (18-13), 10:30 pm
The Clippers go as Chris Paul goes, and the Warriors go as Stephen Curry goes. However, the Warriors rely more on their incredible 3-point shooting (40.3%, second-highest in the league) than anything else, so if they are hitting shots from behind the arc, then they will win most of their games. However, the Clippers, under defensive-minded Doc Rivers, are allowing the lowest 3-point percentage to opponents in the league (32.0%). The question here is if defense will prevail over offenses, and in most cases it is more likely that the 3-point shooters are able to restrained, which would spell trouble for the Warriors. The Clippers, on the other hand, have multiple ways to score, whether its Chris Paul's shooting or penetration, DeAndre Jordan or Blake Griffin's low post work, or JJ Redick's 3-point shooting, they should be able capitalize on the Warrior's misses from long range, and take the victory in a hard fought battle between teams that could meet up in the playoffs.
Prediction: Clippers 101, Warriors 90
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
NBA Must Watch Game: Heat at Pacers
Since LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, and Chris Bosh came together to form the “Big Three,” the Heat have gone 6-4 against the Pacers in the regular season, with, of course, a riveting Eastern Conference finals last year in which the Heat pulled out the series victory in Game 7. However today, despite the recent history between the two teams, the Pacers (-3.5) are favored in Vegas to beat the Heat. This could have something to do with the fact that the Pacers are leading in the standings, but also because of the emergence of Paul George as someone who can finally match LeBron James’s scoring prowess. George is averaging 25.1 ppg, which is very close to LeBron’s 25.5 ppg, 5.8 rebounds per game (Lebron has 6.2), 3.4 assists per game (LeBron has 6.3), 2.1 steals per game (LeBron has 1.3), 0.3 blocks per game (LeBron has 0.4), and 2.6 turnovers per game (LeBron has 3.8). As the numbers clearly show, although Paul George only leads LeBron in two of the categories, he is very much capable of keeping up with the 4-time MVP in LeBron James. 
Prediction: The Heat will be extremely motivated to show the NBA world that they are the best in the East, while the Pacers are looking to avenge their loss in the Eastern Conference Finals last year. My guess is that the Heat will be over-hyped, and coming into the Pacers arena, will fail to hit the necessary outside shots. I am predicting that Roy Hibbert will finish with 15-20 rebounds, Paul George with 20-25 points, and LeBron with 30-35 points in the Pacers 93-88 victory.
Sunday, November 24, 2013
NBA Power Rankings: Week 3
Since last week, the top teams in the NBA have, for the most part, stayed the same. Although, the Bulls have fallen out of the Top 10 and now Derrick Rose has injured his other knee, so their future is looking foggier by the minute. The mirage that was the Phoenix Suns has come back to reality, now only 6-6, and continues to look worse. The Sixers and Celtics have both fallen even out of contention for spots on the rankings while the Mavericks and Warriors have capitalized on their chances and have each gained Top 10 rankings. If the Hawks and Grizzlies make the most of their opportunities, they could do the same next week. Here are the rankings:
1. San Antonio Spurs (11-1) [Last Week: 2]: Only one loss, first place in the Western Conference, and now first place in our rankings. The Spurs just never cease to amaze you, as they keep winning despite being the 5th oldest team in the NBA (28.3 yrs). They still are allowing the 2nd-fewest points per game in the league (89.3), with the highest differential of points scored to points allowed per game (+10). Currently on a 9-game winning streak, tied for highest in the league, they are showing no signs of slowing down.
2. Indiana Pacers (11-1) [Last Week: 1]: Their one loss came to the Bulls, who have the size and defensive capability to keep up with the Pacers, but other than that have been dominating their competition. They allow the fewest points per game in the league (86.9) and are third in differential of points scored to points allowed per game (+9.6). The Pacers are also allowing a league-best 40.2% field goal percentage by their opponents. However, the question has always been if they can offensively match other teams with good defenses, as evident by their loss to the Bulls. Only time will tell.
3. Miami Heat (9-3) [Last Week: 3]: The Heat are fourth in points scored per game (107.1) and 2nd in differential of points scored to points allowed per game (+9.9). As a team, they are shooting a whopping 45.9% from three-point range, a rate that, although ridiculous, they might actually be able to sustain for most of the season (see: Ray Allen, Shane Battier, and, oh yeah, LeBron James). The Heat also are amazing at turning their defense into offense, and are able to because the force an average of 18.8 turnovers per game, which is first in the league. They should be fighting for a third straight NBA title and it would be disappointment if they didn't make the finals.
4. Portland Trail Blazers (11-2) [Last Week: 7]: The Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge led Blazers are currently on a 9-game wining streak. At this point, although early in the season, they seem to be for real. A 41.9% three-point percentage is third-best in the league and has certainly helped get them to the record they have now. However, they play the Warriors, Pacers, Thunder, and Mavericks all within the next 8 games, so they will have an opportunity to prove their legitimacy.
5. Oklahoma City Thunder (8-3) [Last Week: 4]: Kevin Durant averages 12.5 free throws per game, and he and Russell Westbrook are currently carrying the Thunder to a 3-game win streak. They should be better defensively, however, with Serge Ibaka and Kendrick Perkins down low, but are allowing an average of 101.1 points per game, which is 10th worst in the league. The Thunder are winning on the talent of Durant and Westbrook, but will need to improve defensively if they expect to win the Western Conference.
6. Los Angeles Clippers (8-5) [Last Week: 5]: Chris Paul is still averaging career highs in points per game (19.3 now, 18.6 career), assists per game (12.5 now, 9.9 career), and rebounds per game (5.2 now, 4.4 career). DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin together form the best front court the Clippers have had in years and have been hoping for it since they drafted him in 2008. Doc Rivers is still settling in to the team, and while it seems as Los Angeles is finally embracing the Clippers as their team, as evident by their 5-1 record at home, they have only a 3-4 record on the road. That should change as the season progresses and these Clippers will be going places.
7. Dallas Mavericks (9-4) [Last Week: On The Verge]: The Mavericks have surprised a lot of people this year, as last year it seemed that as Dirk Nowitzki began to decline, the team would also. However, they are riding a 4-game winning streak and Dirk is a huge reason why. He averages 20.4 points per game, as opposed to 17.3 last year. Monta Ellis is also having a career year, scoring an average of 23.5 points per game (19.5 career) and averaging 5.7 assists per game (4.7 career). His field goal percentage (48.9%) is also much higher than last year (41.6%). This improved efficiency has certainly been aided by the much higher level of talent around him this year than last, and has lead to an average of 7.3 free throws attempted per game, which is 7th in the league. Look for the Mavericks too keep on rolling, but eventually settle for the 6-8 spot in the Western Conference.
8. Houston Rockets (8-5) [Last Week: 6]: The Rockets score an average of 109.7 points per game, which is the highest rate in the league. However, defense and ball security have kept them from being an elite team. They give up 105.9 points per game, which is second-worst in the league, and turn the ball over at a rate of 18.7 time per game, which is worst in the league. There is no way that the Rockets can expect to go anywhere in the playoffs with those numbers, and with the James Harden and Jeremy Lin constantly handling the ball it will be hard to fix them. Just to point out another major flaw of Houston's game: Dwight Howard averages 11.5 free throws per game, which is the second-most in the league. He is shooting 54.4% at the line, which is the fourth worst rate in the league.
9. Golden State Warriors (8-5) [Last Week: On The Verge]: The Warriors are all-around solid. hey are fifth in the league in differential of points scored and points allowed per game (+5.7) and have incredible 3-point shooting (44.6% as a team, which is second in the league). Andre Iguodala has given the Warriors another big-time option to keep defenses from over-playing Stephon Curry. But, Iguodala does run hot and cold, and has only scored a total of 15 points in the last two games combined. They lost both games, and will continue to lost if Iguodala cannot find some consistency.
10. Minnesota Timberwolves (8-6) [Last Week: 10]: Kevin Love. 24.8 points per game (4th in the league). 13.5 rebounds per game (2nd in the league by only 0.2 rebounds, behind Dwight Howard with 13.7). 4.7 assists per game (1st among power forwards). 0.9 steals per game. 8.0 free throw attempts per game (4th in the league). He is the team and as he goes they go, for without him they wouldn't be even close to being in these rankings. He is that good. Period.
On The Verge: Atlanta Hawks (8-5) [Last Week: Unranked],
Chicago Bulls (6-5) [Last Week: 9], Memphis Grizzlies (7-6) [Last Week: Unranked]
1. San Antonio Spurs (11-1) [Last Week: 2]: Only one loss, first place in the Western Conference, and now first place in our rankings. The Spurs just never cease to amaze you, as they keep winning despite being the 5th oldest team in the NBA (28.3 yrs). They still are allowing the 2nd-fewest points per game in the league (89.3), with the highest differential of points scored to points allowed per game (+10). Currently on a 9-game winning streak, tied for highest in the league, they are showing no signs of slowing down.
2. Indiana Pacers (11-1) [Last Week: 1]: Their one loss came to the Bulls, who have the size and defensive capability to keep up with the Pacers, but other than that have been dominating their competition. They allow the fewest points per game in the league (86.9) and are third in differential of points scored to points allowed per game (+9.6). The Pacers are also allowing a league-best 40.2% field goal percentage by their opponents. However, the question has always been if they can offensively match other teams with good defenses, as evident by their loss to the Bulls. Only time will tell.3. Miami Heat (9-3) [Last Week: 3]: The Heat are fourth in points scored per game (107.1) and 2nd in differential of points scored to points allowed per game (+9.9). As a team, they are shooting a whopping 45.9% from three-point range, a rate that, although ridiculous, they might actually be able to sustain for most of the season (see: Ray Allen, Shane Battier, and, oh yeah, LeBron James). The Heat also are amazing at turning their defense into offense, and are able to because the force an average of 18.8 turnovers per game, which is first in the league. They should be fighting for a third straight NBA title and it would be disappointment if they didn't make the finals.
4. Portland Trail Blazers (11-2) [Last Week: 7]: The Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge led Blazers are currently on a 9-game wining streak. At this point, although early in the season, they seem to be for real. A 41.9% three-point percentage is third-best in the league and has certainly helped get them to the record they have now. However, they play the Warriors, Pacers, Thunder, and Mavericks all within the next 8 games, so they will have an opportunity to prove their legitimacy.
5. Oklahoma City Thunder (8-3) [Last Week: 4]: Kevin Durant averages 12.5 free throws per game, and he and Russell Westbrook are currently carrying the Thunder to a 3-game win streak. They should be better defensively, however, with Serge Ibaka and Kendrick Perkins down low, but are allowing an average of 101.1 points per game, which is 10th worst in the league. The Thunder are winning on the talent of Durant and Westbrook, but will need to improve defensively if they expect to win the Western Conference.
6. Los Angeles Clippers (8-5) [Last Week: 5]: Chris Paul is still averaging career highs in points per game (19.3 now, 18.6 career), assists per game (12.5 now, 9.9 career), and rebounds per game (5.2 now, 4.4 career). DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin together form the best front court the Clippers have had in years and have been hoping for it since they drafted him in 2008. Doc Rivers is still settling in to the team, and while it seems as Los Angeles is finally embracing the Clippers as their team, as evident by their 5-1 record at home, they have only a 3-4 record on the road. That should change as the season progresses and these Clippers will be going places.
7. Dallas Mavericks (9-4) [Last Week: On The Verge]: The Mavericks have surprised a lot of people this year, as last year it seemed that as Dirk Nowitzki began to decline, the team would also. However, they are riding a 4-game winning streak and Dirk is a huge reason why. He averages 20.4 points per game, as opposed to 17.3 last year. Monta Ellis is also having a career year, scoring an average of 23.5 points per game (19.5 career) and averaging 5.7 assists per game (4.7 career). His field goal percentage (48.9%) is also much higher than last year (41.6%). This improved efficiency has certainly been aided by the much higher level of talent around him this year than last, and has lead to an average of 7.3 free throws attempted per game, which is 7th in the league. Look for the Mavericks too keep on rolling, but eventually settle for the 6-8 spot in the Western Conference.8. Houston Rockets (8-5) [Last Week: 6]: The Rockets score an average of 109.7 points per game, which is the highest rate in the league. However, defense and ball security have kept them from being an elite team. They give up 105.9 points per game, which is second-worst in the league, and turn the ball over at a rate of 18.7 time per game, which is worst in the league. There is no way that the Rockets can expect to go anywhere in the playoffs with those numbers, and with the James Harden and Jeremy Lin constantly handling the ball it will be hard to fix them. Just to point out another major flaw of Houston's game: Dwight Howard averages 11.5 free throws per game, which is the second-most in the league. He is shooting 54.4% at the line, which is the fourth worst rate in the league.
9. Golden State Warriors (8-5) [Last Week: On The Verge]: The Warriors are all-around solid. hey are fifth in the league in differential of points scored and points allowed per game (+5.7) and have incredible 3-point shooting (44.6% as a team, which is second in the league). Andre Iguodala has given the Warriors another big-time option to keep defenses from over-playing Stephon Curry. But, Iguodala does run hot and cold, and has only scored a total of 15 points in the last two games combined. They lost both games, and will continue to lost if Iguodala cannot find some consistency.
10. Minnesota Timberwolves (8-6) [Last Week: 10]: Kevin Love. 24.8 points per game (4th in the league). 13.5 rebounds per game (2nd in the league by only 0.2 rebounds, behind Dwight Howard with 13.7). 4.7 assists per game (1st among power forwards). 0.9 steals per game. 8.0 free throw attempts per game (4th in the league). He is the team and as he goes they go, for without him they wouldn't be even close to being in these rankings. He is that good. Period.
On The Verge: Atlanta Hawks (8-5) [Last Week: Unranked],
Chicago Bulls (6-5) [Last Week: 9], Memphis Grizzlies (7-6) [Last Week: Unranked]
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
NBA Power Rankings: Week 2
With most teams having played 7 games so far this season, there are few surprises among the Top 10, although many assumed the Heat would have started better than they have. Nonetheless, there is still a lot of basketball to be played, and the rankings are sure to fluctuate quite a bit before all is said and done. For the inaugural power rankings each will be a bit longer than normal, but should serve as a good starting point for what should be a great season of NBA basketball.
1. Indiana Pacers (8-0): The Pacers have gotten off to an unbelievable start, although they haven't hit real competition yet (with the exception of the Bulls). They are holding opponents to a ridiculous 84.5 ppg, which is 7 points less than the next best team (Spurs). And even though that number is in no way sustainable, especially against better teams, with Roy Hibbert guarding the rim, they should finish as a Top 3 defensive team with one of the top plus/minus ratings of any team (currently +10.4 and ranked first in the league). The Pacers currently have the best chance of knocking off the Heat in the east, but only if Paul George can continue his development into a perennial MVP candidate and big-time scorer to match LeBron. George currently is averaging 24.9 ppg, by far his career high, is shooting 40.4% from 3-pt land, and also averaging 7.8 rebounds per game. To add to his incredible talent is an even more incredible potential. He is only 23 years old.
2. San Antonio Spurs (7-1): The Spurs have always been a great defensive team and they have continued to be so far this year giving up 91.5 ppg. In his 18th year coaching the Spurs, Gregg Popovich has 912 career wins, and is showing no signs of slowing down. The question with this team has always been whether they can sustain their success for an entire season with stars Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili getting up there in age (37, 31, and 36 respectively). However, youngsters such as Danny Green and Kahwi Leonard should be able to take some heavy minutes off the shoulders of the veterans, yet the luxury of this team has always been the ability to lean on the stars in the big moments. This combination of youth and savvy veterans puts them in prime position to contend with the other big guns in the West for another trip to the Finals.
3. Miami Heat (5-3): Although the Heat have not had the best start by their standards, it would be surprising to no one if they suddenly went on a 10-15 game winning streak. They are just that talented. All the evidence needed is the two championships in the last two years. They have even more depth this year, having added Greg Oden and Michael Beasley, and Norris Cole has blossomed into a better-than complementary scorer as a starter or a major spark off the bench in his third season, and as a result his minutes have jumped from a career average of 19.5 mpg to 22.0 mpg. Cole's floor time should continue to grow, as he also adds another 3-pt threat to the already dynamic duo of Ray Allen and Shane Battier. It is almost unfair the amount of talent on this team, and when everyone is healthy, should become better than last year. Unless some serious injury occurs to LeBron James, the Heat should be a Top 3 team for the entire season.
4. Oklahoma City Thunder (5-1): As Russel Westbrook only missed two games and has returned way sooner than expected while still putting up 19 ppg, it is same to say he is fine. Last season while on the floor together, Westbrook and Kevin Durant registered a +9.2 plus/minus, good for second in the league. Sure, they lack that dynamic scorer of the bench that made them truly elite now that James Harden is running with Dwight Howard in Houston, and it was proven last year that an injury to either Durant or Westbrook will prematurely end their hopes of a championship. They are still off to a good start with the second-highest winning percentage in the West, and should be in the mix to trade for a scoring wing when the trade deadline gets closer.
5. Los Angeles Clippers (5-3): The Clippers could very well be the best team in the Western Conference, although their record shows them to be only slightly above average. However, with Doc Rivers as the new head coach, he will need some to time to adjust to his new setting and his players likewise must adjust to him. However, under Rivers, who was a former point guard and coached all-star Rajon Rondo in Boston, Paul has been playing the best basketball of his career. He is currently averaging 12.4 assists per game and 21.3 ppg, both of which are well higher than his career averages (9.9 apg, 18.6 ppg). The addition of sharp-shooting J.J. Reddick has surely helped him, as has the rapid improvement of DeAndre Jordan, who is developing into a potential defensive-player-of-the-year candidate under the defensive-minded Rivers. If the Clippers continue to score a whopping 109.9 ppg (league-high), there will be no stopping them.
6. Houston Rockets (5-3): Harden and Howard seem to have meshed so far, and there hasn't been any Dwight-drama yet (knock on wood). Things are looking up for the Kevin McHale-led Rockets who have aspirations of a championship. They are in 5th place in the league with 106.1 ppg which should give them a better record than they have, except they are also in second place in the league with 19.4 turnovers per game. The Rockets can not afford to keep up that rate of turning the ball over, but with Harden and Jeremy Lin handling the ball as much as they do, it is hard to imagine that number changing too much. They also have only 18.4 assists per game as an entire team, which is 10 less than the league lead (Miami). The pure talent is there, and that is why this team will get by with a relatively high seed, but to advance deep into the playoffs, they will need to solve their ball-handling problems.
7. Portland Trail Blazers (5-2): The dual threat of Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge have carried the team to seemingly new heights, with Lillard averaging 21.1 ogg and Aldridge averaging 22.6 ppg. As a team, the Blazers are shooting an incredible 42.4% 3-pt field goal percentage, which is unsustainable, but with above-average sharp-shooters like Wesley Matthews (currently shooting an incredible 48% from beyond the arc!), Nicolas Batum, and Mo Williams (along with Lillard, of course), they should be a Top-5 3-pt team by the years end. With three underrated big men in Robin Lopez, Myers Leonard, and Thomas Robinson to go along with Aldridge, the Blazers have solid depth all around, and the scary thing is, when first round pick C.J. McCollum makes his debut (he has been hampered by a foot injury), he will add an entirely new dynamic to the team, especially while on the floor with Lillard.
8. Phoenix Suns (5-2): Nobody expected the Suns to have be tied for 4th place in the Western Conference. Heck, most people who followed their offseason transactions expected them to finish with the worst record in the league in order to draft Kansas's phenom Andrew Wiggins (they traded away Luis Scola and Marcin Gortat). However, even with the inspired play of point guard Eric Bledsoe (20.9 ppg and 7.3 apg) and the always-steady Goran Dragic (13.3 ppg), the Suns still should not have started off this well. Their Top-5 draft pick Alex Len still hasn't even played with an ankle injury! But the unexpected development of big men Markieff Morris (17.2 ppg and 6.8 rpg) and Miles Plumlee (11.7 ppg and 9.6 rpg) has sparked a storybook start to a season that was thought to be headed for the dumps. This type of success for such a young team is hard to sustain, and the Suns will most likely fall back to an average if not below-average team as the season progresses.
9. Chicago Bulls (3-3): Derrick Rose is an enigma. He missed more than a year with the same injury in which Adrian Peterson recovered from over the course of one NFL offseason. When he struggles, while still on the floor for over 31 minutes per game, the team will struggle. The Bulls as a team are holding opposing teams to a mere 91 ppg (second in the league) thanks to the always-defensively-sound Joakim Noah, Carlos Boozer, and Luol Deng. However, with Rose running the offense, they are only scoring one point more per game, good for 27th in the league. Rose has only 0.3 more assists per game (4.5) than turnovers per game (4.2), which is asking for trouble. He is also scoring only 14.7 ppg, 6 pts less per game than his career average. The Bulls were supposed to be one of the teams with the best shot of beating the Heat, but they first need to stop beating themselves.
10. Minnesota Timberwolves (5-3): Kevin Love is back and better than ever. He is averaging 26.4 ppg, 5.0 apg, 15.0 rpg, and is shooting 36.4% from 3-pt range. His career averages in those same respective categories are 17.6 ppg, 2.0 apg, 12.2 rpg, and 35.3% of 3s. When the still-25-year-old Love is playing out of his mind like this, he is by far the best player in the league, and it almost doesn't matter what anyone else on his team does. The thing is, he has always had the potential to put up numbers like this, and is showing absolutely no signs of slowing down. It is absolutely pointless to mention any other player on the Timberwolves at the moment, because Kevin Love will carry the team to the playoffs on his shoulders alone.
On The Verge: Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors
1. Indiana Pacers (8-0): The Pacers have gotten off to an unbelievable start, although they haven't hit real competition yet (with the exception of the Bulls). They are holding opponents to a ridiculous 84.5 ppg, which is 7 points less than the next best team (Spurs). And even though that number is in no way sustainable, especially against better teams, with Roy Hibbert guarding the rim, they should finish as a Top 3 defensive team with one of the top plus/minus ratings of any team (currently +10.4 and ranked first in the league). The Pacers currently have the best chance of knocking off the Heat in the east, but only if Paul George can continue his development into a perennial MVP candidate and big-time scorer to match LeBron. George currently is averaging 24.9 ppg, by far his career high, is shooting 40.4% from 3-pt land, and also averaging 7.8 rebounds per game. To add to his incredible talent is an even more incredible potential. He is only 23 years old.2. San Antonio Spurs (7-1): The Spurs have always been a great defensive team and they have continued to be so far this year giving up 91.5 ppg. In his 18th year coaching the Spurs, Gregg Popovich has 912 career wins, and is showing no signs of slowing down. The question with this team has always been whether they can sustain their success for an entire season with stars Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili getting up there in age (37, 31, and 36 respectively). However, youngsters such as Danny Green and Kahwi Leonard should be able to take some heavy minutes off the shoulders of the veterans, yet the luxury of this team has always been the ability to lean on the stars in the big moments. This combination of youth and savvy veterans puts them in prime position to contend with the other big guns in the West for another trip to the Finals.
3. Miami Heat (5-3): Although the Heat have not had the best start by their standards, it would be surprising to no one if they suddenly went on a 10-15 game winning streak. They are just that talented. All the evidence needed is the two championships in the last two years. They have even more depth this year, having added Greg Oden and Michael Beasley, and Norris Cole has blossomed into a better-than complementary scorer as a starter or a major spark off the bench in his third season, and as a result his minutes have jumped from a career average of 19.5 mpg to 22.0 mpg. Cole's floor time should continue to grow, as he also adds another 3-pt threat to the already dynamic duo of Ray Allen and Shane Battier. It is almost unfair the amount of talent on this team, and when everyone is healthy, should become better than last year. Unless some serious injury occurs to LeBron James, the Heat should be a Top 3 team for the entire season.4. Oklahoma City Thunder (5-1): As Russel Westbrook only missed two games and has returned way sooner than expected while still putting up 19 ppg, it is same to say he is fine. Last season while on the floor together, Westbrook and Kevin Durant registered a +9.2 plus/minus, good for second in the league. Sure, they lack that dynamic scorer of the bench that made them truly elite now that James Harden is running with Dwight Howard in Houston, and it was proven last year that an injury to either Durant or Westbrook will prematurely end their hopes of a championship. They are still off to a good start with the second-highest winning percentage in the West, and should be in the mix to trade for a scoring wing when the trade deadline gets closer.
5. Los Angeles Clippers (5-3): The Clippers could very well be the best team in the Western Conference, although their record shows them to be only slightly above average. However, with Doc Rivers as the new head coach, he will need some to time to adjust to his new setting and his players likewise must adjust to him. However, under Rivers, who was a former point guard and coached all-star Rajon Rondo in Boston, Paul has been playing the best basketball of his career. He is currently averaging 12.4 assists per game and 21.3 ppg, both of which are well higher than his career averages (9.9 apg, 18.6 ppg). The addition of sharp-shooting J.J. Reddick has surely helped him, as has the rapid improvement of DeAndre Jordan, who is developing into a potential defensive-player-of-the-year candidate under the defensive-minded Rivers. If the Clippers continue to score a whopping 109.9 ppg (league-high), there will be no stopping them.
6. Houston Rockets (5-3): Harden and Howard seem to have meshed so far, and there hasn't been any Dwight-drama yet (knock on wood). Things are looking up for the Kevin McHale-led Rockets who have aspirations of a championship. They are in 5th place in the league with 106.1 ppg which should give them a better record than they have, except they are also in second place in the league with 19.4 turnovers per game. The Rockets can not afford to keep up that rate of turning the ball over, but with Harden and Jeremy Lin handling the ball as much as they do, it is hard to imagine that number changing too much. They also have only 18.4 assists per game as an entire team, which is 10 less than the league lead (Miami). The pure talent is there, and that is why this team will get by with a relatively high seed, but to advance deep into the playoffs, they will need to solve their ball-handling problems.7. Portland Trail Blazers (5-2): The dual threat of Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge have carried the team to seemingly new heights, with Lillard averaging 21.1 ogg and Aldridge averaging 22.6 ppg. As a team, the Blazers are shooting an incredible 42.4% 3-pt field goal percentage, which is unsustainable, but with above-average sharp-shooters like Wesley Matthews (currently shooting an incredible 48% from beyond the arc!), Nicolas Batum, and Mo Williams (along with Lillard, of course), they should be a Top-5 3-pt team by the years end. With three underrated big men in Robin Lopez, Myers Leonard, and Thomas Robinson to go along with Aldridge, the Blazers have solid depth all around, and the scary thing is, when first round pick C.J. McCollum makes his debut (he has been hampered by a foot injury), he will add an entirely new dynamic to the team, especially while on the floor with Lillard.
8. Phoenix Suns (5-2): Nobody expected the Suns to have be tied for 4th place in the Western Conference. Heck, most people who followed their offseason transactions expected them to finish with the worst record in the league in order to draft Kansas's phenom Andrew Wiggins (they traded away Luis Scola and Marcin Gortat). However, even with the inspired play of point guard Eric Bledsoe (20.9 ppg and 7.3 apg) and the always-steady Goran Dragic (13.3 ppg), the Suns still should not have started off this well. Their Top-5 draft pick Alex Len still hasn't even played with an ankle injury! But the unexpected development of big men Markieff Morris (17.2 ppg and 6.8 rpg) and Miles Plumlee (11.7 ppg and 9.6 rpg) has sparked a storybook start to a season that was thought to be headed for the dumps. This type of success for such a young team is hard to sustain, and the Suns will most likely fall back to an average if not below-average team as the season progresses.
10. Minnesota Timberwolves (5-3): Kevin Love is back and better than ever. He is averaging 26.4 ppg, 5.0 apg, 15.0 rpg, and is shooting 36.4% from 3-pt range. His career averages in those same respective categories are 17.6 ppg, 2.0 apg, 12.2 rpg, and 35.3% of 3s. When the still-25-year-old Love is playing out of his mind like this, he is by far the best player in the league, and it almost doesn't matter what anyone else on his team does. The thing is, he has always had the potential to put up numbers like this, and is showing absolutely no signs of slowing down. It is absolutely pointless to mention any other player on the Timberwolves at the moment, because Kevin Love will carry the team to the playoffs on his shoulders alone.
On The Verge: Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors
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