2010/11 NBA Thread

[CNYSkinFan]

Trading Campas are open time to have it.

Personaally I think Miami is built for the regular season but I am not sure they can handle the pressure of the playoffs and the scrutiny that will be on them all season long.

The Lakers are decent and defending champs. They added to their bench and the West is now so dilluted of talent, espescially if Carmelo leaves for NJ, that they should have an easy return to the finals.

Of course I love my sCeltics. I think you can argue this is the deepest Celtics team in 20+ years. If you count Perkins when he gets back from surgery they will have 6 guys on the bench that are or were legit NBA starters (Robinson, West, Daniels, Shaq/Oneal, Davis, Perkins). A fully healthy KG and another year of Rondo getting better with a deeper bench to help the starters could make them poised for one last run.

[ihatedallas]

Trading Campas are open time to have it.

Personaally I think Miami is built for the regular season but I am not sure they can handle the pressure of the playoffs and the scrutiny that will be on them all season long.

The Lakers are decent and defending champs. They added to their bench and the West is now so dilluted of talent, espescially if Carmelo leaves for NJ, that they should have an easy return to the finals.

Of course I love my sCeltics. I think you can argue this is the deepest Celtics team in 20+ years. If you count Perkins when he gets back from surgery they will have 6 guys on the bench that are or were legit NBA starters (Robinson, West, Daniels, Shaq/Oneal, Davis, Perkins). A fully healthy KG and another year of Rondo getting better with a deeper bench to help the starters could make them poised for one last run.


The celtics needed to get deeper. I expect West/Daniels/andJ Oneal to log tons of minutes to keep milage down on the big 3. The biggest thing is this team needs to stay healthy. If it does, it has 4-6 guys who can clog the lane and pretty much do everything that will disrupt what I expect from this Miami team.

LA still has the best starting 5/6 in the league without a doubt, but I wonder if Artest is going to get nutty now that he has a ring.

I'm kind of digging the team New Orleans has scrambled to put together down there. Ariza and Paul should work nicely.

Miami has done a tremendous job filling out that team, but I don't think they have a C on the roster worth playing...Playing Bosh there limits him severely, and I think any team with a post presence should be able to give them fits. I'm very interested to see how this team plays Orlando.

Chicago's addition of Boozer was nice. He gives them a scoring option down low, an he's paired with Noah to take the D heat off of his shoulders. If Rose continues to develop this team should have home court in the first round.

[ihatedallas]

Ihd- ending threads one post at a time

[CNYSkinFan]

so it all starts tonight. here are my predictions by division:

Atlantic: This is Boston's Division of course and they will win it. NY could make some noise if they get carmelo but not for the top spot. The easy Atlantic division will help the Celtics get ready for the playoff push.

Central - Chicago and Milwaukee will go right down to the wirre here. Chicago IMO is more talented and will win. Cleveland may make a move for the 8th spot in the playoffs but that is it.

Southeast- Will all the focus on Miami people are overlooking this might be the best division in the NBA, and the deepest, Miami will win it, but Orlando, Atlanta, will beat them up along the way and Washington and Charlotte have alot of young talent. This is not a cake walk division and the heat are not the deepest roster. If the heat are not leading the NBA in record throughout the year the public pressure will also grow.

Northwest - Unless Denver and Carmello come to terms Oklahoma city and Durant are going to rule this division which could be the weakest in the NBA espescially if carmello goes east. Minnesota is uip and coming but still lakcking some bonafide scorers.

Pacific - Lakers should and will repeat easily here, everyone else is in a down swing, even Nash is not likeing Phoenix's chances. Unless Kobe goes on a shooting spree the Lakers will win it easily.

Southwest - Dallas should own this division, but never does, Memphis is young, and SA old. I guess Houston could make noise if Yao stays healthy

East overall. I expect Miami to finish wiht the best record and Boston second with Orlando and Atlanta getting 3 and 4, New York, Milwaukee, Charlotte, should make the playoffs if Carmello fgoes to NY. 8th spot is up for grabs to whichever team sucks the least. Bostona nd Miami play in the ECF and Boston with a better bench and overall tougher team both physically and mentally will take it in 6.

West Overall: The is the lakers to lose, period. Nobody has any talent in the west as it all moved east. I expect OKC to give them the most challenge as the 2 spot and dallas and Phoenix will be 3 & 4. Memphis, Minesota, denver, houston should round out the west. Lakers over OKS in 5 in the WCf finals.

The rubber match in the finals and gotta go with my boys, Celtics in 6.

[lakeskin]

6 games? Cmon now. You know if the lakers and celtics play again its going another epic 7 games.

West is still deep. OKC, Dallas, Spurs, Utah, Clippers, Houston, and Phoenix are the other 7.

And in the East its the top three teams plus the dark horse in Chicago. Everyone else is garbage, including Atlanta.

[CNYSkinFan]

6 games? Cmon now. You know if the lakers and celtics play again its going another epic 7 games.

West is still deep. OKC, Dallas, Spurs, Utah, Clippers, Houston, and Phoenix are the other 7.

And in the East its the top three teams plus the dark horse in Chicago. Everyone else is garbage, including Atlanta.
if it goes 7 you know the refs give it to the lakers, so I am hoping for 6!!!

Dallas IMo is on the decline, same with Spurs, Utah lost boozer, Denver loses Carmello, Phoenix is getting older, Houston cant rely on Yao.

I think the West is as depleted as I have ever seen it.

Atlanta is not trash, they have a young viable squad, They would have taken a shot at Orlando if Miami did not get the god squad together.

[akhhorus]

Final 4 for me:
Miami vs Boston(Miami in 7)
Lakers vs Utah(Utah in 7)

Miami over Utah in 5.

[NCskinsfanatic]

I'm just looking forward to my Bulls being relevant again, i hope we can survive the first month or so without Boozer and I still wish we could have made a move for Rudy Fernandez we need a stronger SG and a good back up PG. I read today we're interested in Patrick Beverley who was released by the Heat, but Im not sure if he'll ever develop into much more than he is now.

[Santheb]

It's a long way to 70 and this team will not do it.

[CNYSkinFan]

And that is why three big stars wont be able to beat a team f veterans playing with one mind.

It may only be the opener but this Celtic fan feels a little vindicated for keeping the faith all summer long.

[ihatedallas]

And that is why three big stars wont be able to beat a team f veterans playing with one mind.

It may only be the opener but this Celtic fan feels a little vindicated for keeping the faith all summer long.

Even though they made a mini comeback, this heat team already saw some of its biggest flaws exposed.

-If you clog the paint, you're usually going to do pretty well against the squad because Lebron and Dwade cant consistently hit jumpers all game. The Boston big 3 worked because 2 of them were great jumpshooters.
-No easy buckets in the halfcourt. No big man presence at all. Bosh is a good player, but he's not exactly going to get his buckets on the block.
-On offense, a post presence will chew them up. O'neal and big baby had 1/4th of bostons points. I'm looking forward to what Gasol/Bynum/Odom do. Or Dwight, for that matter.


On the other hand, they showed the brilliance that is there.

-They are going to get about 30 points a game just from turnovers. If ANYONE on that team forces a steal/block/bad pass LBJ or Wade will already be almost at the otherteams foul line.
-They also showed mroe team defense than I was expecting, and seemed to be able to shutdown Boston for stretches.
-They get the luxury of one of them taking off while the other 2 slump and still almost winning. Bosh was invisible all game and Wade just sucked(missing games or not, he sucked.)


It was unfortunate for them that Boston layed out the blueprint so early, even though other teams wont even come close to executing it as nicely. Take out Bosh as a sneaky third option and make Wade/LBJ shoot. Live with it if they get hot outside or some other dummy like House does.


As far as Boston goes. CNY you guys have a hell of bench. When everyones healthy you have about 5 reliable bodies you can put down low, a great guard rotation, and a reliable guy to come in for Pierce in Daniels. Its going to help throughout the season, and its going to be a hell of an asset come May.

[WarEagle]

On the Celts, an announcer said "They're like the Steelers, they'll grind you down defensively." Something like that.

Showboat Shaq hung on the rim for around 2 secs so all the photogs could take his picture for the newspapers... lol.

[CNYSkinFan]

I love Paul Pierce...but that boy sure loves the drama. I swear to god he needs at least one dramativ re-entrance to a game a year. When he went to the trainers room last night I knew he was coming back just in time to lead the team in the 4th, which he did. I don't know how he can top the finals re-appearance in 07-08 but I have a feeling that somehow in the playoffs he will stage an on court kidnapping complete with guys with guns in the 1st quarter only for him to rapel down from the bank north ceiling in the middle of the third quarter with his team down ten and immediately hit 6 3s in a row. The dude likes the dramatic entrances.

[CNYSkinFan]

Even though they made a mini comeback, this heat team already saw some of its biggest flaws exposed.

-If you clog the paint, you're usually going to do pretty well against the squad because Lebron and Dwade cant consistently hit jumpers all game. The Boston big 3 worked because 2 of them were great jumpshooters.
-No easy buckets in the halfcourt. No big man presence at all. Bosh is a good player, but he's not exactly going to get his buckets on the block.
-On offense, a post presence will chew them up. O'neal and big baby had 1/4th of bostons points. I'm looking forward to what Gasol/Bynum/Odom do. Or Dwight, for that matter.


On the other hand, they showed the brilliance that is there.

-They are going to get about 30 points a game just from turnovers. If ANYONE on that team forces a steal/block/bad pass LBJ or Wade will already be almost at the otherteams foul line.
-They also showed mroe team defense than I was expecting, and seemed to be able to shutdown Boston for stretches.
-They get the luxury of one of them taking off while the other 2 slump and still almost winning. Bosh was invisible all game and Wade just sucked(missing games or not, he sucked.)


It was unfortunate for them that Boston layed out the blueprint so early, even though other teams wont even come close to executing it as nicely. Take out Bosh as a sneaky third option and make Wade/LBJ shoot. Live with it if they get hot outside or some other dummy like House does.


As far as Boston goes. CNY you guys have a hell of bench. When everyones healthy you have about 5 reliable bodies you can put down low, a great guard rotation, and a reliable guy to come in for Pierce in Daniels. Its going to help throughout the season, and its going to be a hell of an asset come May.
I pretty much agree with this post verbatim. The Heat need some shooters and House is a nice streaky option but they dont got a guy who can consistently hit the 3 like Ray and Paul can for the Cs. Lebron and Wade and Bosh are basically the same player, face to the basket drive and dish type players. They jsut dont got anyone to dish to. Now don't get me wrong they are three of the best at each of their positions, but they need Mike Miller back big time and anothershooter to make a serious run at the title against the Cs and the Lakers and even Orlando, who can clog the lane with bigs.

The C's played last night without Perkins and without West. Our bench is incredible and our second 5 of robinson, west, Daniels, Glen Davis and either Shaq (Perkins becomes a starter when he comes back) is NBA caliper. And our 11th guy will be Jermaine oneil...our 11th guy!!!! Still the team will go as far as rondo will take them. if rondo gets hurt we are in serious trouble. i rather one of the ig 3 take an injury for a month then rodndo because we have no pure point backing him up.

[CarMike]

BIGTIME congrats Dustin on the W last night! It was great watching the Heat go down.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

That was an exciting opening night. Boston-Miami was like a playoff game. That is going to be a tough match up for Miami every time they play. LeBron and Wade are better than Pierce and Allen, but the Celtics are better and in some cases way better everywhere else.

If I were Bosh, I would be studying tapes on Rodman, especially offensive rebounding. The offense slowed last night whenever he touched the ball. Granted, the Celtics will do that to anyone. But, he has to consider making his mark more as a Rodman type, but still knowing he can rely on his low post moves when he gets the ball in the post from a rebound or a pass.

Miami is going to feast on all the bad teams this year, but I can see them struggling with any team with a dominant big man or a dominant PG. However, I will say that Wade is obviously not yet in mid-season form missing most of the preseason.

While I always enjoy NBA, this is the first time in a few years where I am really excited for the season.

[shally]

That was an exciting opening night. Boston-Miami was like a playoff game. That is going to be a tough match up for Miami every time they play. LeBron and Wade are better than Pierce and Allen, but the Celtics are better and in some cases way better everywhere else.

If I were Bosh, I would be studying tapes on Rodman, especially offensive rebounding. The offense slowed last night whenever he touched the ball. Granted, the Celtics will do that to anyone. But, he has to consider making his mark more as a Rodman type, but still knowing he can rely on his low post moves when he gets the ball in the post from a rebound or a pass.

Miami is going to feast on all the bad teams this year, but I can see them struggling with any team with a dominant big man or a dominant PG. However, I will say that Wade is obviously not yet in mid-season form missing most of the preseason.

While I always enjoy NBA, this is the first time in a few years where I am really excited for the season.

tell you what, if Big Babay can keep his head in the game, the C's are going to be very very tough in the playoffs even if Perk is not fully back.
Rondo is the key to the franchise. if he keeps everyone invloved in the offense, no one is going to beat the C's- barring injuries

and Miami not even get past Orlando, when it comes down to it

[shally]

I pretty much agree with this post verbatim. The Heat need some shooters and House is a nice streaky option but they dont got a guy who can consistently hit the 3 like Ray and Paul can for the Cs. Lebron and Wade and Bosh are basically the same player, face to the basket drive and dish type players. They jsut dont got anyone to dish to. Now don't get me wrong they are three of the best at each of their positions, but they need Mike Miller back big time and anothershooter to make a serious run at the title against the Cs and the Lakers and even Orlando, who can clog the lane with bigs.

The C's played last night without Perkins and without West. Our bench is incredible and our second 5 of robinson, west, Daniels, Glen Davis and either Shaq (Perkins becomes a starter when he comes back) is NBA caliper. And our 11th guy will be Jermaine oneil...our 11th guy!!!! Still the team will go as far as rondo will take them. if rondo gets hurt we are in serious trouble. i rather one of the ig 3 take an injury for a month then rodndo because we have no pure point backing him up.

the C's only weaknesses are Age/injury and burnout because of the incredible intensity with which they play.. that is hard to maintain over 80 games, and so they may not be better than the #2 or #3 seed.. this means they will probably lack home court advantage at some point in the playoffs- a huge deal..but, they have the roster to go toe to toe with anyone, including the Lakers

[WarEagle]

SI reported that the Heat-Celts game produced the highest ratings for a regular season NBA game ever, on cable TV. Gonna be an exciting season, folks.

[akhhorus]

Celtics lose to one of the worst teams in the NBA(Cleveland), Miami has no probs with Philly. What have we learned in the first games of the NBA season? Nothing lol.

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

Blake with the game winner last night. I'm feelin you, blake

[shally]

Celtics lose to one of the worst teams in the NBA(Cleveland), Miami has no probs with Philly. What have we learned in the first games of the NBA season? Nothing lol.

i think we learned that the C's are going to have difficulty maintaining the kind of intensity they need until they get to the playoffs.. that will result in less than a number 1 seed for them

[CNYSkinFan]

typical cs on backl to backs. I actually thought that with the deeper bench it would be easier but without Delonte tey just did not have the scorer coming off the bench to help. Also Jermaine Oneal looks lost out there.

Cavs played with intensity with thir home opener, I am actually kinda glad they got a win in the post lebron era

[BigCountry]

If that's what they're calling technical fouls for now I'm not sure how Paul Pierce gets through the year. Too bad he's no good at soccer.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

Celtics lose to one of the worst teams in the NBA(Cleveland), Miami has no probs with Philly. What have we learned in the first games of the NBA season? Nothing lol.

I completely disagree. I think the only conclusion you can draw is that Cleveland is a better team this year. Could they top 70 wins?

[Moe]

Blake with the game winner last night. I'm feelin you, blake

I saw his first 4 buckets....wow. I hope he can stay healthy beacuse he defines explosive.

[CNYSkinFan]

If that's what they're calling technical fouls for now I'm not sure how Paul Pierce gets through the year. Too bad he's no good at soccer.
Actually Paul in the first two games has been subdued. Our techs have been shaq and David robinson....Paul gasol should have some issues with it as well.

I hate the new rule, but SOMETHING had to be done. I love my cs but even I got tired of them complaining all last year, Lakers too, it was making the sport almost unwatchable.

[shally]

Actually Paul in the first two games has been subdued. Our techs have been shaq and David robinson....Paul gasol should have some issues with it as well.

I hate the new rule, but SOMETHING had to be done. I love my cs but even I got tired of them complaining all last year, Lakers too, it was making the sport almost unwatchable.

actually, it is pretty much unwatchable until the 4th quarter of playoff games..

[shally]

Actually Paul in the first two games has been subdued. Our techs have been shaq and David robinson....Paul gasol should have some issues with it as well.

I hate the new rule, but SOMETHING had to be done. I love my cs but even I got tired of them complaining all last year, Lakers too, it was making the sport almost unwatchable.

David Robinson ?? is The Admirial playing for the C's now ????? lol

[CNYSkinFan]

David Robinson ?? is The Admirial playing for the C's now ????? lol
why not we signed every other old big man lol

[shally]

why not we signed every other old big man lol

first time in the history of the NBA that ACTUAL members of the hall of fame are players STILL playing..lol

[BigCountry]

http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/news/story?id=5741743

Who had 3 days into the season on the over/under on when Delonte West shows why nobody else wanted him?

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

I dont know why everybody keeps putting the Magic in the Celtics/heat category... Theyre on the bulls level. Hate to say it as a carolina fan but VC is massively overrated/paid.. i'd trade him and lewis for Melo and JR smith

[CNYSkinFan]

http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/news/story?id=5741743

Who had 3 days into the season on the over/under on when Delonte West shows why nobody else wanted him?
my bet is one of them or both of themare going to be dumped by the end of the weekend. They have been going at it all camp for some reason.

[BigCountry]

my bet is one of them or both of themare going to be dumped by the end of the weekend. They have been going at it all camp for some reason.

Is Von Wafer's mother attractive?

[SkinsfaninNJ]

Is Von Wafer's mother attractive?

Very funny.

[shally]

my bet is one of them or both of themare going to be dumped by the end of the weekend. They have been going at it all camp for some reason.

as long as Erdan keeps his head on straight the C's will win a championship this year..LOL

and it is good to see Big Baby focused on his game and not on outside issues.. mayb ehe has matured ?? for now he is giving them quality minutes off the bench. with J Oneal still struggling with injuries, that is very significant

[BigCountry]

If Pau Gasol plays like this most of the year everyone else can start closing up shop now.

[BigCountry]

http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/news/story?id=5759196

Stay classy K.G.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

Enjoying the season so far. There are some really good first year guys this year. The Nets are far better than last year. I've gotten the chance to see and been impressed with Wall, Cousins, Griffen, Favors and James Anderson on the Spurs. Watch out for him. Could be another Spurs late pick steal.

I'm looking forward to checking out the Knicks to see if they have improved any. Lakers and Celtics are impressive with their depth. Bucks played well last night. I want to check out the Hawks. I don't expect Richard Jefferson to keep up this play, but if he does, the west will come down to the Lakers and Spurs.

[CNYSkinFan]

http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/news/story?id=5759196

Stay classy K.G.
both doc and KG are asserting that KG called him a cancer to the league and the team. And really who complains about being trash talked on twitter.

[CNYSkinFan]

Enjoying the season so far. There are some really good first year guys this year. The Nets are far better than last year. I've gotten the chance to see and been impressed with Wall, Cousins, Griffen, Favors and James Anderson on the Spurs. Watch out for him. Could be another Spurs late pick steal.

I'm looking forward to checking out the Knicks to see if they have improved any. Lakers and Celtics are impressive with their depth. Bucks played well last night. I want to check out the Hawks. I don't expect Richard Jefferson to keep up this play, but if he does, the west will come down to the Lakers and Spurs.
The great thing about the celtics depth is their #3 Center started last night and they still found a way to win without the starters playing a ton of minutes. They have just ridiculous front court depth, best of any celtic team I have ever seen. Betweeen the 4-5 position they have 5 plaers (Garnett, Davis, Perkins, and both Oneals) that can give fouls and play tough, and if someone is banged up they can keep them out and let them heal all the way. Same with the 2-3 spot with Allen, West, Pierce, Daniels, Wafer. The only spot they are thin is at point where Ronda's only backup is Robinson who is not a true point and avery who is a rookie. So yeah they are deep but if rondo goes, so goes the team

[skinfanjon]

I need to go ahead and get some predictions out there before we get to far into the season...

The East is a three team race between Miami, Orlando, and Boston. Miami is built for the regular season and once the big three starts clicking (which may be happening as we speak), they are going to feast on bad teams and beat most everyone with their speed on the wings and in the open court. I see them winning the top seed and somewhere in the vicinity of 63 games.

Orlando and Boston will likely battle for the 2nd seed all year, and I think it will come down to how healthy the Celtics can stay. Everyone's a year older, but Rondo seems to have hit yet another level of play at the point, and I begrudgingly have to concede he is the best PG in the East, and on par with the best the West has to offer as well. Deron, CP3, and Nash all bring different skill sets to the table and it's difficult to compare them, but I'd group these four as the best in the game right now. Nash may fall out if his age catches up this year. Orlando is basically the same team as last year and I really don't see them improving much. I'll go ahead and assume the big three for the Celtics is intact most of the season and predict they claim the 2 spot.

The West is obvious, it's the Lakers and everyone else. LA will cruise to the top seed during the regular season, provided Kobe and Gasol stay relatively healthy. I give the Thunder a punchers chance, but for that to happen KD will have to really take the next step to true superstar status. I still think he's a year away, but his arrival as the best player in the league is inevitable.

I can't see Orlando overcoming homecourt against Boston, so we should see the dream ECF of Miami and Boston. And......surprise, surprise, surprise.....I'm taking Boston. Yep. I said it. CNY, write it down, I'm taking the Celtics. You are correct, the frontcourt depth is very impressive, and having seen Rondo's first couple of games I think he will destroy the Heat in a playoff series. Miami's weaknesses are size in the paint and lack of a quality PG, which just so happens to be the strengths of Boston. James and Wade will be the best two players on the floor and should keep the series close, but I'm taking the vets in this clash of titans. Boston in 6.

As for the Finals, I don't know how anyone can really see a clear cut advantage for either team. LA will once again have home court, which I think will be the difference in the series. I think Blake is a very underrated player, he and Fisher should be able to bother Rondo just enough to keep him from dominating, and (based on nothing but a hunch) I think Bynum stays healthy and levels the front court matchups. Lakers in 7.

[CNYSkinFan]

Someone call Satan and see if he needs a coat lol!

[skinfanjon]

Someone call Satan and see if he needs a coat lol!

Lmao..ya know, I would take Boston to win the whole thing, but I just can't do it man. I hate them too much. Another 3 peat and phil sails off into the sunset.

[BigCountry]

both doc and KG are asserting that KG called him a cancer to the league and the team. And really who complains about being trash talked on twitter.

Doc AND K.G??? I'm sold. If it never happened why do they care about it staying on the court or not? Not that I don't think worse things have been said on an NBA court, but K.G's backpeddling is a tad on the pathetic side. All he had to say is that it was in the heat of battle and he doesn't think cancer is funny, as I'm sure he doesn't.

[Santheb]

Doc AND K.G??? I'm sold. If it never happened why do they care about it staying on the court or not? Not that I don't think worse things have been said on an NBA court, but K.G's backpeddling is a tad on the pathetic side. All he had to say is that it was in the heat of battle and he doesn't think cancer is funny, as I'm sure he doesn't.

As an unbiased person who has no vested interested in any team in the NBA but the Wizards (as a rule of rooting for DC sports), KG's "explanation" seemed ridiculous and yes, pathetic. That's not the type of thing someone say when you're in the moment, the zone. He can say he meant that he thinks Charlie V is as brave as a cancer patient or he's a cancer to the league or whatever, what he meant on the court was either that he looks like a cancer patient or plays like one and neither is funny.

[ihatedallas]

As an unbiased person who has no vested interested in any team in the NBA but the Wizards (as a rule of rooting for DC sports), KG's "explanation" seemed ridiculous and yes, pathetic. That's not the type of thing someone say when you're in the moment, the zone. He can say he meant that he thinks Charlie V is as brave as a cancer patient or he's a cancer to the league or whatever, what he meant on the court was either that he looks like a cancer patient or plays like one and neither is funny.

Exactly. There is no way in hell KG meant he was a cancer to his team. Thats a bit too convienant given CV's condition, no? Come on no one in their right mind should think KG is for real about that, and he should have kept his mouth shut instead of trying to take a pathetic out.

Yea, CNY, it was lame for CV to tweet that. He seems like the lame guy who cant talk smack so tries to get KG in trouble. I just think KG should have not said anything, because his attempt to fix it seems stupid.


On a seperate note, KG's level of play these days doesn't pair up with his lame smack talk. I mean does he really think anyone respects him when he picks on Ilyasova? He was trying to punk all the Bucks foreign players the other night, and I was happy when the big(ger) Aussie gave him a shove.

[CNYSkinFan]

I cant believe smack talk is still getting press. Seriously if anyone heard what Larry Bird or Jordan said on the court nowadays they would crap all over themselves. I am pretty sure that KG probably called him a cancer patient, and I just dont care. Was it classy? No. Would I do it? Probably not. But I also would not tweet about it if someone called me that.

[ihatedallas]

I cant believe smack talk is still getting press. Seriously if anyone heard what Larry Bird or Jordan said on the court nowadays they would crap all over themselves. I am pretty sure that KG probably called him a cancer patient, and I just dont care. Was it classy? No. Would I do it? Probably not. But I also would not tweet about it if someone called me that.

I agree, completely. Smack talk doesn't need to leave the court. I just think KGs response is equally as lame as CVs tweet.

[akhhorus]

I have little love for the Celtics, but Villanueva's running to twitter to complain about smack talking is just comical.

[CNYSkinFan]

I agree, completely. Smack talk doesn't need to leave the court. I just think KGs response is equally as lame as CVs tweet.
it is but KG's marketing team probably made him do it. Not excusing it but this kind of covering up happens all the time.

[NCskinsfanatic]

I dont like either team, but smack talk is smack talk and it generally isnt very pc. Instead of whinning about it Charlie should figure out a way to shut KG up while on the court. I've heard a lot worse honestly than what KG really said(on the court).

[SkinsfaninNJ]

Anyone catch the Jazz Heat game last night. Amazing come back by the Jazz. Then they won in OT without Williams who fouled out at the end of regulation.

Miami's middle is so soft, it is going to be a big problem for them all year. It wasn't just bigs either, Williams did anything he wanted to in the lane in the second half. Miami has too much riding on this not to pull off some kind of move to get stiffer in the middle.

[CNYSkinFan]

Celtics - Miami matchup on thursday should be as epic as a matchup can be. Both teams coming off losses. Celtics always have a chip on ntheir shoulder and Miami wants to atone for losing the opener. Celtics are a little banged up and their vaunted depth is really being tested with both O'neals getting early season injuries without Perk back leading to bgi minutes for Glen Davis and Semih Erden. I expect Miami to win but I think it will be a great game. As good as an early season matchup can get.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

Looking forward to tonight's game.

A few notes from the games I saw last night, Jazz had another great comeback knocking off Orlando. Winning two straight in Florida is impressive.

Knicks look like they are going to have a very uneven year. Sometimes they look good, and sometimes they look like the Knicks.

Spurs roll again. Add them to the conversation of superior depth. They have a bunch of guys playing significant minutes.

[CNYSkinFan]

So how long until Pat Riley takes over?

Once again the Heat look like what they are, a few talented players but not a good team. That is why the Celtics got up on them early and Miami tried to come back. They almost did but without a decent point guard and a bonafide inside presence Miami is not going to win its first playoff series let alone the championship.

Celtics were playing without J. Oneal, K Perkins, and Delonte west and still dominated the game. Pathetic showing by Miami. I relly thought Celtics were doomed to lose tonight with Miami losing the other night and wanting revenge for the opening game. The Heat are just not playign with any pride right now, period.

Reilly will be the coach by Jan 1

[cal_junior]

Once again the Heat look like what they are, a few talented players but not a good team.

I wouldn't want to play them later in the season. They'll only get better as the players mesh.

And keep in mind who their loses have come against. I won't write them off until they lose to a bad team.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

I can't write off the Heat either. Two things concern me with them though:

1. House played well and Haslem has the game of his life, and really the Celts blew their doors off most of the game.

2. They are lacking passion. LeBron has always been a little more laid back, but he and Wade have to get a little more excited. They need a little Kobe, a little MJ determination.

Chris Bosh finally grabbed a few offensive boards and got himself going a little bit. I still think Miami is going to pull off some kind of deal for a better inside presence. Those guys who can keep the other team guards out of the middle are out there.

[CNYSkinFan]

I wouldn't want to play them later in the season. They'll only get better as the players mesh.

And keep in mind who their loses have come against. I won't write them off until they lose to a bad team.
next year or maybe the year after maybe. I think they have way too many issues to truly contend this year. They have no real Center and a true lack of height, they also have serious problems at the point. They will beat up on the dregs of the league, and should. But a decent team will pick them apart in a 7 game series. I also think the HC is overmatched by his star players. Doc and Phil are ginats of the game and that is why they can handle several superstas on their team, the av guy in Miami will not last the season.

I think the Heat will be a good team but they need to draft or trade for a decent point guard and a bruising center to truly be a championship contender.

the problem is Dwayn wade and Leboron are so similar players that two on the same team are not very complimentary. Take when Boston put its Big 3 together. Ray Allen was a nice perimeter shoter, Paul pierce a slasher, and Garnett a powerhouse rebounder. Lakers big 3 of Kobe Artest and Gasol are much the same way.

right now the Miami big 3 are playing like a pick up team rather then a true basketball team.

[shally]

So how long until Pat Riley takes over?

Once again the Heat look like what they are, a few talented players but not a good team. That is why the Celtics got up on them early and Miami tried to come back. They almost did but without a decent point guard and a bonafide inside presence Miami is not going to win its first playoff series let alone the championship.

Celtics were playing without J. Oneal, K Perkins, and Delonte west and still dominated the game. Pathetic showing by Miami. I relly thought Celtics were doomed to lose tonight with Miami losing the other night and wanting revenge for the opening game. The Heat are just not playign with any pride right now, period.

Reilly will be the coach by Jan 1

I wouldn't want to play them later in the season. They'll only get better as the players mesh.

And keep in mind who their loses have come against. I won't write them off until they lose to a bad team.

next year or maybe the year after maybe. I think they have way too many issues to truly contend this year. They have no real Center and a true lack of height, they also have serious problems at the point. They will beat up on the dregs of the league, and should. But a decent team will pick them apart in a 7 game series. I also think the HC is overmatched by his star players. Doc and Phil are ginats of the game and that is why they can handle several superstas on their team, the av guy in Miami will not last the season.

I think the Heat will be a good team but they need to draft or trade for a decent point guard and a bruising center to truly be a championship contender.

the problem is Dwayn wade and Leboron are so similar players that two on the same team are not very complimentary. Take when Boston put its Big 3 together. Ray Allen was a nice perimeter shoter, Paul pierce a slasher, and Garnett a powerhouse rebounder. Lakers big 3 of Kobe Artest and Gasol are much the same way.

right now the Miami big 3 are playing like a pick up team rather then a true basketball team.

good points by all..

if Ray can stay healthy and shoot 3's, no one will beat the C's this year..Defensively they can compete, and beat anyone.. their offense can go in the tank. Ray is critical to it

Rondo is playing the best point guard in the nba right now.. as he goes, so do the C's ultimately

getting quality play from Big Baby is huge because it allows Perk to heal slowly and the ONelas to be old and brittle

when West comes on, i think Wafer goes and the C's have the best bench in the NBA..even Robinson gives them minutes

what can you say except even Erden looks decent.. a step up from Scalabrine

the ONLY things that can beat the Celtics this year will be age/injuries, or a Laker team that can suddenly make 3 point shots with Blake




oh.... that and the corruption of Stern.. my guess is that he doent particularly care to see the Lakers repeat, so the refs will take them out this year...lol

now, where is my tin foil hat ????

[SkinsfaninNJ]

good points by all..

if Ray can stay healthy and shoot 3's, no one will beat the C's this year..Defensively they can compete, and beat anyone.. their offense can go in the tank. Ray is critical to it

Rondo is playing the best point guard in the nba right now.. as he goes, so do the C's ultimately

getting quality play from Big Baby is huge because it allows Perk to heal slowly and the ONelas to be old and brittle

when West comes on, i think Wafer goes and the C's have the best bench in the NBA..even Robinson gives them minutes

what can you say except even Erden looks decent.. a step up from Scalabrine

the ONLY things that can beat the Celtics this year will be age/injuries, or a Laker team that can suddenly make 3 point shots with Blake




oh.... that and the corruption of Stern.. my guess is that he doent particularly care to see the Lakers repeat, so the refs will take them out this year...lol

now, where is my tin foil hat ????

It is way too early for declarations, but 10% of the way through the season tells me the west is still better than the east. As of right now, the Heat would be no better than the fourth or fifth best team in the west. As of right now, the Celtics are the beasts of the east.

I do expect Miami to get better as the season goes on. James and Wade will get better at playing together.

[CNYSkinFan]

g

oh.... that and the corruption of Stern.. my guess is that he doent particularly care to see the Lakers repeat, so the refs will take them out this year...lol

now, where is my tin foil hat ????

man I saw that coming from the beginning of your post lol

[shally]

man I saw that coming from the beginning of your post lol

you know how much i hate to disappoint people..lol

[CNYSkinFan]

http://www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/november10sports/pierce_tweet.jpg

LMAO!

[IHATEDALLAS'82'87'91]

Wow, Kevin Love had 31 Points and 31 Rebounds. First 30-30 game in 28 years.

[CNYSkinFan]

Rajon Rondao is averaging 15.1 assists a game on pace for well over 1200. The Assists record is 1164 set by Stockton in 90-91. Rajon is da man and probably the most irreplaceable part of the Celtics.

Ten games in and Boston is leading the east at 8-2 and played all ten games without Delonte West who will be the main scoring threat off the bench and Kendrick Perkins who is our starting Center and both oneals with bum knees. West comes back now, Perkins in January/February, mean time the Oneals are trading time off while Glen Davis is playing like a monster. Garnett and Ray Allen found the fountain of youth too.

I like what I am seeing from the Cs now can they keep the fire during the mid part of the season.

[cal_junior]

Rajon Rondao is averaging 15.1 assists a game on pace for well over 1200. The Assists record is 1164 set by Stockton in 90-91. Rajon is da man and probably the most irreplaceable part of the Celtics.

If he can stay in the double-digits by season's end that would be pretty impressive.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

Some good games last night. Celtics and Lakers reminded everyone they are the big dogs. Miami put forth their best effort. Spurs/Bulls was a good game. Bulls looked great in the first half and then they were caught in the tidal wave in the third quarter. NO/Mavs looks like it was a great game too.

[CNYSkinFan]

Some good games last night. Celtics and Lakers reminded everyone they are the big dogs. Miami put forth their best effort. Spurs/Bulls was a good game. Bulls looked great in the first half and then they were caught in the tidal wave in the third quarter. NO/Mavs looks like it was a great game too.
the great thing about the C's game is for the the first time this season we saw what a deep team the Cs are (despite being without jermaine oneal and Perkins btw) that they could let the second unit come in the 4th quarter in a blowout win and not only protect but extend a 20+ point lead allowing their starters to rest while giving valuable experience to future role players like Erdine and Harangody. If yonly Avery was healthy he could have got some run as well.

If they can do that 10 times this season against the dregs of the league it will keep the starting 5 fresh for the big regular season matchups and get us a decent shot at homecourt in the east (and maybe overall) which is something these old men desperately need.

[ihatedallas]

Bosh showed up last night! Against arguably the worst frontcourt in the NBA!





It is waaaay to early to be predicting the playoffs at the moment. There are still huge questions out there. No one knows how well the Bulls will play with somebody else who cans core the basketball, Bynum hasn't played a game yet, and the big 3 are still looking confused.

Early on the 3 most important things to note to me are - the lakers are winning early, easily, and without Bynum. The Celtics have evolved into a team that uses a very deep rotation and just has Rondo at the head of all it, and play a sound system. Finally, the Heat no matter how much better they are going to get, simply wont be able to defend the paint. They have nothing that resembles a center, they have a jumpshooting 4, and they have two dominant wing defenders. No matter what heroics Wade and LBJ pull, the C's or the Lakers can clog the paint on D, and feed the paint on O.


If I'm Lebron im regretting some of this. I think all 3 will eventually realize this would have been a better idea with 2 of them and better support pieces.

[Farmer Ted]

Lol, I guess LeBron slaughtered Cleveland. At least he didn't have a triple double.

[give_portis_the_rock]

Pathetic effort by Cleveland's players and fans.

Lebron crapped on them tonight (or last night, I guess, since it just turned tomorrow).

[cal_junior]

Pathetic effort by Cleveland's players and fans.

What did the fans do wrong?

[CNYSkinFan]

Pathetic effort by Cleveland's players and fans.

Lebron crapped on them tonight (or last night, I guess, since it just turned tomorrow).
look Cleveland is a bad bad team. And Miami came to paly. The only way Cleveland wins against the top of the league is if they get caught sleeping against them like Boston did on the second game of the season.

Perhaps now though it can all be moved past. Lebron is a douche and handled it all wrong, but Cleveland is acting like a spiteful ex who goes to her exs wedding and sings alanis morrisette's you oughta know with the band. Time to move on Cleveland and find a few good NBA players.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

Pathetic effort by Cleveland's players and fans.

Lebron crapped on them tonight (or last night, I guess, since it just turned tomorrow).

Terrible job by the players. Awful. Note to the Cavs, LeBron spit in your face and said I can't win with this group of losers. That's how you play against him? Let him do anything he wants? Wow, the lack of pride. the lack of professionalism. I swear, I should just stick to ESPN Clasics, because that was real sports. In the old days, LeBron would have needed one hell of an ice bath after last night.

I think the fans were fine and did the right thing behaving. I guess they could have been a little louder throughout, but really the way the game was going, the Cavs gave them nothing to keep their spirits up.

[cal_junior]

Perhaps now though it can all be moved past. Lebron is a douche and handled it all wrong, but Cleveland is acting like a spiteful ex who goes to her exs wedding and sings alanis morrisette's you oughta know with the band. Time to move on Cleveland and find a few good NBA players.

Yeah, I'm sure getting crushed at home is just what the doctor ordered for the Cavs and their fans to move on :rolleyes:

I don't think you're appreciating exactly the kind of relationship that part of the state had with LeBron. He's been the basketball pride and joy of NE Ohio since about 1998 or 99. And then he gets drafted by the Cavs and turns them into a contender? You couldn't make that up.

The idea that a MVP-level player could spend his entire career in one place and then give them a massive middle finger in primetime is unprecedented. It is going to take years for the Cavs community to get over this.

[CNYSkinFan]

BTW as a Celtic fan I am totally looking forward to The Association on ESPN tonight. here is a preview:

http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/celtics/post/_/id/4678529/video-the-association-preview

This is the NBA version of hard knocks and it is focusing on the Celtics this year as it focused on the lakers last year.

[CNYSkinFan]

Yeah, I'm sure getting crushed at home is just what the doctor ordered for the Cavs and their fans to move on :rolleyes:

I don't think you're appreciating exactly the kind of relationship that part of the state had with LeBron. He's been the basketball pride and joy of NE Ohio since about 1998 or 99. And then he gets drafted by the Cavs and turns them into a contender? You couldn't make that up.

The idea that a MVP-level player could spend his entire career in one place and then give them a massive middle finger in primetime is unprecedented. It is going to take years for the Cavs community to get over this.
but its over, and besides some schaudenfraude with Miami's struggle, the best way to rise is to get a few more players and make a real run.

I think A-rod leaving texas (and seatlte before that) is similar, but your right not on tv and on the same level.

[cal_junior]

I think A-rod leaving texas (and seatlte before that) is similar, but your right not on tv and on the same level.

A-Rod grew up in Miami. There's simply not the emotional connection.

If A-Rod had been born and raised in Southern Florida, been drafted out of HS by the Marlins and then single-handedly taken them to the World Series you might have something.

[give_portis_the_rock]

look Cleveland is a bad bad team. And Miami came to paly. The only way Cleveland wins against the top of the league is if they get caught sleeping against them like Boston did on the second game of the season.

Perhaps now though it can all be moved past. Lebron is a douche and handled it all wrong, but Cleveland is acting like a spiteful ex who goes to her exs wedding and sings alanis morrisette's you oughta know with the band. Time to move on Cleveland and find a few good NBA players.

Since when was Miami a top team?

As of right now, they're mediocre.

[RedskinsDave]

Since when was Miami a top team?

As of right now, they're mediocre.

You must have missed the show where they were declared the awesomest. It was before they decided not to play together and before their lame arse fans decided not to show up.

[give_portis_the_rock]

What did the fans do wrong?

I didn't see or hear any Delonte West chants/posters.

Terrible job by the players. Awful. Note to the Cavs, LeBron spit in your face and said I can't win with this group of losers. That's how you play against him? Let him do anything he wants? Wow, the lack of pride. the lack of professionalism. I swear, I should just stick to ESPN Clasics, because that was real sports. In the old days, LeBron would have needed one hell of an ice bath after last night.

A lot of Cavs fans are upset that some Cavs players were joking with Lebron during the game.

If Derek Anderson can't have a laugh with his own teammate while his team is being blown out, why do Cavs players get a pass for joking with opposing players during a blowout? And normally I don't mind when players do that, because I realize they are friends off the court, but in this situation they have to realize that this is more than just a game.

I liked when Lebron tried to embrace Mo Williams and Mo just snubbed him.

You must have missed the show where they were declared the awesomest. It was before they decided not to play together and before their lame arse fans decided not to show up.

LOL, they need to FAN UP!!

[Emmanouel8]

Terrible job by the players. Awful. Note to the Cavs, LeBron spit in your face and said I can't win with this group of losers. That's how you play against him? Let him do anything he wants? Wow, the lack of pride. the lack of professionalism. I swear, I should just stick to ESPN Clasics, because that was real sports. In the old days, LeBron would have needed one hell of an ice bath after last night.

I think the fans were fine and did the right thing behaving. I guess they could have been a little louder throughout, but really the way the game was going, the Cavs gave them nothing to keep their spirits up.

I agree.

I hate the cavs because they bounced us in playoffs and the fans popped off a little too much for my taste but watching their effort last night ticked me off. That was pathetic. He PLAyERS should fork over their game check and refund the fans. If I were the owner I would've fired all of them at half time. Are you kidding me?

Lebron did his annoying chalk throw ritual, slap in the face, no one did anything. I hate to do it but I have to reference the cowboys crew for sticking up against an opponents disrespect when TO got clobbered and the team rallied around the effort. I mean being a part of a sports frnchise you have to understand the fans ARE YOUR LiFEBLOOD! They show up and pay the salaries, they tune in and sell commercial spots, they buy the merchindise, etc. That's what the movie Gladiator was about. Win the crowd! Damn, that cavs team couldn't throw so much as a hard foul!? I mean players like Artest throw those for a sideways look.

To add that Brazilian side show bob stunt double went out of his way to bear hug public enemy 1 on TV, center court, at the beginning of the game?! OMG he should have been benched right there.

Then to just let Lebron minimize the team by yapping at the bench as if this were a pick up ggame? Seriously if you can't beat him on the court at least deck him, where's the pride. Just horrible. If I were a fan I may have just took the floor and committed a hard foul myself if I saw that kind of effort on the court. Horrible.

[give_portis_the_rock]

I agree.

I hate the cavs because they bounced us in playoffs and the fans popped off a little too much for my taste but watching their effort last night ticked me off. That was pathetic. He PLAyERS should fork over their game check and refund the fans. If I were the owner I would've fired all of them at half time. Are you kidding me?

Lebron did his annoying chalk throw ritual, slap in the face, no one did anything. I hate to do it but I have to reference the cowboys crew for sticking up against an opponents disrespect when TO got clobbered and the team rallied around the effort. I mean being a part of a sports frnchise you have to understand the fans ARE YOUR LiFEBLOOD! They show up and pay the salaries, they tune in and sell commercial spots, they buy the merchindise, etc. That's what the movie Gladiator was about. Win the crowd! Damn, that cavs team couldn't throw so much as a hard foul!? I mean players like Artest throw those for a sideways look.

To add that Brazilian side show bob stunt double went out of his way to bear hug public enemy 1 on TV, center court, at the beginning of the game?! OMG he should have been benched right there.

Then to just let Lebron minimize the team by yapping at the bench as if this were a pick up ggame? Seriously if you can't beat him on the court at least deck him, where's the pride. Just horrible. If I were a fan I may have just took the floor and committed a hard foul myself if I saw that kind of effort on the court. Horrible.

The fans weren't all that loud either.

I know after the first quarter the game got out of hand, but there was not nearly enough venom in that building even before that.

But yeah, I get what you're saying. Varejao hugging Lebron like an idiot, Boobie Gibson sharing laughs and jokes with Lebron like a fool, nobody doing anything while Lebron was being a douche beside the Cleveland bench, etc...

One of the Cavs coaches told Lebron to STFU (http://www.sportspickle.com/video/4292/cavs-coach-tells-lebron-to-stfu), but he clearly just said it under his breath, when he should have told it to Lebron's face.

The fans did better than the players. But the fans were not nearly as hateful as they could have been.

And I will give Mo Williams credit for snubbing Lebron (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kByB4a_OCBo).

[give_portis_the_rock]

Daniel Gibson is saying that the conversations the Cavs bench and players were having with Lebron were "not friendly." (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ap-cavaliers-lebronstaunts)

What do you guys think about this?

[cal_junior]

What do you guys think about this?

Just LeBron being LeBron, according to Gibson:

"I've heard that, and that kind of rubs me the wrong way," Gibson said. "We all know LeBron and we all know that he enjoys being in front of the camera. To say we were fraternizing and being friendly ... nobody knows what was said and the things that were said probably could not be repeated right now. We wanted to win the game and those guys brought it to us."

"I think people, from the outside looking in, might say we were laughing and joking with him, but if you could hear the things that were said, you would know that wasn't the case. There was nothing friendly about the conversation we had."

[Emmanouel8]

Daniel Gibson is saying that the conversations the Cavs bench and players were having with Lebron were "not friendly." (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ap-cavaliers-lebronstaunts)

What do you guys think about this?

They're play on the court and body language doesn't support his statements IMO. I don't buy it. Just damage control by embarrassed members of the cavs.

Lebron completely disrespected cleveland and the cavs on all levels and the cav players looked like they put more effort into being soft then defending their homecourt. As far as the fans not booing after the 2nd qtr, I can't blame them. Why pay good money and put in all that effort when your team is going to lay dead like that. Seriously, I wouldn't any of them on my team after that. Completely punked.

[cal_junior]

They're play on the court and body language doesn't support his statements IMO. I don't buy it. Just damage control by embarrassed members of the cavs.

Fascinating. So basically Gibson had positive conversations with LeBron during the game, then afterwards lied about it and said he's furious with LeBron and they are no longer friends?

[Emmanouel8]

Fascinating. So basically Gibson had positive conversations with LeBron during the game, then afterwards lied about it and said he's furious with LeBron and they are no longer friends?

Maybe not "positive" but no more than neutral. Did it look like Lebron was responding to anything negative from the bench. Not from my perspective. He mischaracterized what was being said IMO.

[WarEagle]

Maybe the Cavs hate the Cleveland fans too. Disrespect. Fans should hate them in return and stay away. The players were kissing his rear all night because he's the man, right now, in the NBA. They might need him in the future.

The arena should have at least said no to his baby powder drama at the start. The mascot should've de-panted him.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

They're play on the court and body language doesn't support his statements IMO. I don't buy it. Just damage control by embarrassed members of the cavs.

Lebron completely disrespected cleveland and the cavs on all levels and the cav players looked like they put more effort into being soft then defending their homecourt. As far as the fans not booing after the 2nd qtr, I can't blame them. Why pay good money and put in all that effort when your team is going to lay dead like that. Seriously, I wouldn't any of them on my team after that. Completely punked.

I agree with you and so did the ESPN guys before the Friday night Celtics game. Like Jon Barry said, pull this leg and it will play Jingle Bells. Gibson backtracked because he has to live with these fans for the forseeable future. He had to come out and say something to defend himself.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

We are at the quarter point of the season. Thoughts? The Celtics look dominant in the East. I know I have said this before, but if the Spurs can stay healthy it comes down to them and the Lakers in the West. The Lakers are going to get healthy and better. A completely healthy Spurs team can beat the Lakers this year. The Spurs are longer and deeper now than they have been in a long time.

I am sick of the Heat. Does their game reallly need to be included in The Lead on ESPN every day and night? Enough already. They are getting a bit better though, especially at working Bosh into the offense more. They are still no threat to the Celtics yet.

[cal_junior]

I know I have said this before, but if the Spurs can stay healthy it comes down to them and the Lakers in the West. The Lakers are going to get healthy and better. A completely healthy Spurs team can beat the Lakers this year. The Spurs are longer and deeper now than they have been in a long time.

No love for Tuff Juice and the Mavs, eh? They look darn good to me.

[CNYSkinFan]

We are at the quarter point of the season. Thoughts? The Celtics look dominant in the East. I know I have said this before, but if the Spurs can stay healthy it comes down to them and the Lakers in the West. The Lakers are going to get healthy and better. A completely healthy Spurs team can beat the Lakers this year. The Spurs are longer and deeper now than they have been in a long time.

I am sick of the Heat. Does their game reallly need to be included in The Lead on ESPN every day and night? Enough already. They are getting a bit better though, especially at working Bosh into the offense more. They are still no threat to the Celtics yet.
That and the Celts are not healthy at all. The Big 3 has been surprisingly the healthiest part of the team. Rondo has missed games, both oneils have missed stretches of games, Perk is out till the all star break, West was out for 10 games due to suspension, came back played 5 games and broke his wrist and will not be back till the playoffs. STILL they are not just finding ways to get it done, they are finding ways to limit the Big 3 minutes and look dominating doing it. If we get heatlthy and kleep the chemistry then I imagine we may be looking for a place to hang #18...big ifs but I love watching this team play, even more so then 07-08

[CNYSkinFan]

No love for Tuff Juice and the Mavs, eh? They look darn good to me.
the mavs always look great until Memorial day when it all falls apart

[SkinsfaninNJ]

No love for Tuff Juice and the Mavs, eh? They look darn good to me.

Regretably, I have not focused in on the Mavs yet. I've seen a fair amount of the Bulls, Jazz and Hornets at this point to think they could be pesky, but not contenders.

Orlando still looks good, but they need the right playoff opponents. Blazers have a ton of talent (and injuries), but they can't get it together.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

That and the Celts are not healthy at all. The Big 3 has been surprisingly the healthiest part of the team. Rondo has missed games, both oneils have missed stretches of games, Perk is out till the all star break, West was out for 10 games due to suspension, came back played 5 games and broke his wrist and will not be back till the playoffs. STILL they are not just finding ways to get it done, they are finding ways to limit the Big 3 minutes and look dominating doing it. If we get heatlthy and kleep the chemistry then I imagine we may be looking for a place to hang #18...big ifs but I love watching this team play, even more so then 07-08

Celts are really entertaining this year. I know they have some careless turnovers, but I think they pass better than any team in the league.

I actually watched more of the Nets/Celts than the Redskins once the game got out of hand.

[CNYSkinFan]

Celts are really entertaining this year. I know they have some careless turnovers, but I think they pass better than any team in the league.

I actually watched more of the Nets/Celts than the Redskins once the game got out of hand.
i recorded the celtics and watched it after the redskins game to make me feel better

[cal_junior]

the mavs always look great until Memorial day when it all falls apart

We'll have to see if Caron changes that. One of my favorite Wizards of all-time.

[ihatedallas]

If you were a Cleveland fan, wouldn't you be wondering where the hell that Lebron was last spring? What a punk.


The NBA, as always, is a 4/5 team league.

Its The Spurs, Celtics, Lakers, Magic and the POTENTIAL of the heat.

Any of those 5 could win this year, and I think it will stay that way by spring.

[skinfanjon]

I think OKC deserves some honorable mention as competition to the Lakers. Westbrook is becoming a truly elite PG and Durant is just getting better,when he's healthy anyway. They will continue to grow as the season goes on.

[shally]

i recorded the celtics and watched it after the redskins game to make me feel better

now THAT is a team that plays with heart

[CNYSkinFan]

now THAT is a team that plays with heart
I am willing to bet Shaq could play Nose in our 3-4

[shally]

I am willing to bet Shaq could play Nose in our 3-4

or tight end...

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

Damn, Vujacic got traded for joe smith.


http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5920357

[shally]

Damn, Vujacic got traded for joe smith.


http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5920357

gives the Lakers more inside presence to go against the Celt's ???

[CNYSkinFan]

gives the Lakers more inside presence to go against the Celt's ???
and injury protection for Bynum. This is actually a solid forward looking move by the Lakers.

[shally]

and injury protection for Bynum. This is actually a solid forward looking move by the Lakers.

something to do with Blake, as well ? he has played well. it is a playoff-looking move. still, the Nets are stockpiling picks like crazy

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

ummm do the clippers really have zero points at halftime or is this a typo on espn?

[skinfanjon]

The Heat are starting to get their act together. Still some obvious problems that likely won't be accounted for this season, but they will win a championship with that group in the next couple seasons.

[CNYSkinFan]

The Heat are starting to get their act together. Still some obvious problems that likely won't be accounted for this season, but they will win a championship with that group in the next couple seasons.
i have said all along they will win a championship...just not yet. Good teams take time to build with the 07-08 celtics a true exception to the rule. And they got lucky with incredible steps forwards by rondo and big baby davis they did not count on.

I still say we are looking at the rubber match between the celts and lakers this year, though the new orlando magic could make waves but I think they too are a year away.

[shally]

i have said all along they will win a championship...just not yet. Good teams take time to build with the 07-08 celtics a true exception to the rule. And they got lucky with incredible steps forwards by rondo and big baby davis they did not count on.

I still say we are looking at the rubber match between the celts and lakers this year, though the new orlando magic could make waves but I think they too are a year away.

i just dont know that the rest of the Heat roster is good enough to carry them through a tough 7 games series

[akhhorus]

Imo, the only team that can stop them this year is the Celtics, but what physical shape they'll be in by playoff time is the question(they'll need home court advantage also). I've seen better teams than Miami in my life, but when Miami steps on the accelerator, they are nothing short of amazing. If the Heat ever get a real center who can bang on the post, they'll be unstoppable.

[CNYSkinFan]

i just dont know that the rest of the Heat roster is good enough to carry them through a tough 7 games series

Imo, the only team that can stop them this year is the Celtics, but what physical shape they'll be in by playoff time is the question(they'll need home court advantage also). I've seen better teams than Miami in my life, but when Miami steps on the accelerator, they are nothing short of amazing. If the Heat ever get a real center who can bang on the post, they'll be unstoppable.

i just think they need another off season or mid-season blockbuster trade (but they have nothing to trade with except future firsts). If mike miller can get healthy and be a bench scorer and they get a real center and a real point guard to take pressure of lebron. They are an off season away but they are finally getting it together.

Gota remember we have not seen the Celtics at full strength yet. We beat Miami at the beginning of the year without west and perkins, and we were without perk and oneal in our second matchup. About mid february when we are totally healthy this team is going to be even more incredible then we are now. We just have soooo many bigs. There is not a team out there who can control the paint against us when totally healthy

[akhhorus]

i just think they need another off season or mid-season blockbuster trade (but they have nothing to trade with except future firsts). If mike miller can get healthy and be a bench scorer and they get a real center and a real point guard to take pressure of lebron. They are an off season away but they are finally getting it together.

Gota remember we have not seen the Celtics at full strength yet. We beat Miami at the beginning of the year without west and perkins, and we were without perk and oneal in our second matchup. About mid february when we are totally healthy this team is going to be even more incredible then we are now. We just have soooo many bigs. There is not a team out there who can control the paint against us when totally healthy

Imo, the Cs will need to be at full strength--especially bigs--to beat Miami. If they limp in with Shaq/O'Neal hurting, even with Perk back, they're vulnerable.

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

Lakers will need Bynum to be what he hasnt been to win this one.

[shally]

i just think they need another off season or mid-season blockbuster trade (but they have nothing to trade with except future firsts). If mike miller can get healthy and be a bench scorer and they get a real center and a real point guard to take pressure of lebron. They are an off season away but they are finally getting it together.

Gota remember we have not seen the Celtics at full strength yet. We beat Miami at the beginning of the year without west and perkins, and we were without perk and oneal in our second matchup. About mid february when we are totally healthy this team is going to be even more incredible then we are now. We just have soooo many bigs. There is not a team out there who can control the paint against us when totally healthy

Given their age and injury histories, there is no guarantee we will EVER see the C's at full strength.. that is the risk they took adding players like Jermaine and Shaq, and even Daniels

[CNYSkinFan]

Given their age and injury histories, there is no guarantee we will EVER see the C's at full strength.. that is the risk they took adding players like Jermaine and Shaq, and even Daniels
maybe but Doc is doing a fine job sitting people for long stretches and letting them get totally healthy. And winning at the same time. We even won without rondo in for the last two weeks. They will definitely always have someone down with a naggin g injury, but with their depth they awill always have a 10 man rotation and I can see Doc shutting people down in April and early may as we get ready for the playoffs so we are at full health for our playoff run, or as close to it/

We just have soooo many bigs this year, Shaq, J. O'Neal, Perk, KG, Davis, even Erden has put in valuable time. They shut down Dwight on Christmas day without Perk and with Shaq foulingout early in the 4th. If we had Rondo our offense would not have stalled and we would have won.

We should see what a full celtic team looks like near the end of Febuary, and it will be downright scary

[SkinsfaninNJ]

Lakers will need Bynum to be what he hasnt been to win this one.

The Lakers are in some trouble. They can definitely get it together. Obviously, there is a ton of games left to be played. Lucky for them, all of the answers are in house. I don't think they need to add any parts.

But right now, they would get swept in the playoffs by the Spurs.

[shally]

maybe but Doc is doing a fine job sitting people for long stretches and letting them get totally healthy. And winning at the same time. We even won without rondo in for the last two weeks. They will definitely always have someone down with a naggin g injury, but with their depth they awill always have a 10 man rotation and I can see Doc shutting people down in April and early may as we get ready for the playoffs so we are at full health for our playoff run, or as close to it/

We just have soooo many bigs this year, Shaq, J. O'Neal, Perk, KG, Davis, even Erden has put in valuable time. They shut down Dwight on Christmas day without Perk and with Shaq foulingout early in the 4th. If we had Rondo our offense would not have stalled and we would have won.

We should see what a full celtic team looks like near the end of Febuary, and it will be downright scary

there is a problem with shutting down too early to protect the players.. home court advantage is determined by overall record. in the finals that 1 game edge can be huge.. also, if you drag into the playoffs sometimes getting your edge back is tough.. given the intensity of the C's work ethic that is not likely, but still you cant always turn it right back on.

still, i would not bet against the C's this year, barring any major injury

[SkinsfaninNJ]

You C fans jinxed them talking about injuries and resting players. J/K.

I do hope KG gets back quickly. I've really enjoyed watching the Celtics this year.

[CNYSkinFan]

You C fans jinxed them talking about injuries and resting players. J/K.

I do hope KG gets back quickly. I've really enjoyed watching the Celtics this year.
i dont even want to talk about it lol. this is the nightmare scenario

[skinfanjon]

i dont even want to talk about it lol. this is the nightmare scenario

The nightmare scenario is losing Rondo. He is by far your best player.

[CNYSkinFan]

well half way through the nba season this week. most teams have played 40-42 games

Obviously SA and Bos a=r the classes in both divisions, though the heat are looking like they may put it together. Still they just dont have the firepower and big men to hang with true contenders imo. LA will make a run in the playoffs and can do some damage, and Dallas will be better when Dirk gets in.

But i still think we are looking at a SA BOS finals right now...

oh and btw Someone test Ray Allen...he is shooting near 70% from the 3 point line since Christmas including some huge 3 pointes in the 4th against the magic last night

[cal_junior]

well half way through the nba season this week. most teams have played 40-42 games

Obviously SA and Bos a=r the classes in both divisions, though the heat are looking like they may put it together. Still they just dont have the firepower and big men to hang with true contenders imo. LA will make a run in the playoffs and can do some damage, and Dallas will be better when Dirk gets in.

But i still think we are looking at a SA BOS finals right now...

oh and btw Someone test Ray Allen...he is shooting near 70% from the 3 point line since Christmas including some huge 3 pointes in the 4th against the magic last night

You might be selling Miami a little short. Just look what they've done since the end of November.

[CNYSkinFan]

You might be selling Miami a little short. Just look what they've done since the end of November.
against what competition? Winnign against the lakers and utah is ok...i guess, but losing twice to Dallas, In their winning stretch they beat teams like the milawaukke bucks three times, golden state and the wizards twice, Celveland, Sacremento, Phoenix, Houston, ...

they are in the easypart of their schedule. They still cant matchup well with orlando and boston in 7 game series IMO

[cal_junior]

against what competition? Winnign against the lakers and utah is ok...i guess, but losing twice to Dallas, In their winning stretch they beat teams like the milawaukke bucks three times, golden state and the wizards twice, Celveland, Sacremento, Phoenix, Houston, ...

they are in the easypart of their schedule. They still cant matchup well with orlando and boston in 7 game series IMO

It remains to be seen. To win that many games on the road (they set an NBA record for one month, I think) is pretty impressive.

Miami was pretty mediocre through mid-November, then seemed to figure it out. When LeBron and Bosh are healthy again we'll see how they look.

[CNYSkinFan]

It remains to be seen. To win that many games on the road (they set an NBA record for one month, I think) is pretty impressive.

Miami was pretty mediocre through mid-November, then seemed to figure it out. When LeBron and Bosh are healthy again we'll see how they look.
i give you that they are playing better...but they just lack the size and their shooting is too streaky to win long series against good opponents. I am more scared fof Orlando in the east then Miami

[NCskinsfanatic]

I'm very impressed with my Bulls thus far. Good teams overcome injuries and still produce and that's exactly what we're doing this year. Rose is becoming one of the best PG's in the league, the addition of Boozer has helped and despite our lackluster SG rotation, Taj playing below expectations and Noah out until late March we're keeping pace in a competetive Eastern Conference. If we just had a starting caliber SG I'd like our chances to compete with and overtake anyone in the East.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

Half way point of the year. Thoughts?

About two weeks ago, the league was really a group of haves and have-nots. It has evened a little since, but the bottom of the playoff brackets could be pretty weak.

In the east, I really only care about Bos., Mia., Orl., Atl., NY and Chi. Everyone else is different degrees of bad.

The west is different though. It is deep again and where the power resides. You have SA, LA, Utah, Dal., Ok., Denver (assuming no trade) and NO all as good teams. Portland is at least mediocre. Golden State, Phoenix and the Clippers have all been playing better than .500 ball lately.

SA has exceeded all expectations. They are a very deep and complete team. They have earned the right at the midway point to be the odds on favorite to win it all.

I still think LA straightens itself out and gets to the west finals. But SA is a better team. Think about this when it comes to SA as a team, SA is having the best season since the Jordan Bulls and it is conceivable not a single member of the team will win an individual regular season award. They are a true team and any one of about 8 guys can rise up and drop 30 on you and beat you on any given night. Scary stuff.

Miami looks really good, but I'm not sold on them beating Boston. The best finals match up (two best teams) would be SA/Bos.

[CNYSkinFan]

welcome back Kendrick Perkins. I missed that scowl on your face tough as nails defense. I love having shaq on the team but having Perk back makes me feel sorry for opposing centers having to do their after game ritual with meat packs on their eyes

[CNYSkinFan]

Laker fans have been pretty quiet lately.

We meet for the first time this Sunday and we are bringing Perk with us this time.

Kevin Garnett is letting his shoes do the talking lol (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Kevin-Garnett-s-Beat-L-A-shoe?urn=nba-313525)

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

Laker fans have been pretty quiet lately.

We meet for the first time this Sunday and we are bringing Perk with us this time.

Kevin Garnett is letting his shoes do the talking lol (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Kevin-Garnett-s-Beat-L-A-shoe?urn=nba-313525)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiS9-yPvBnY

[CNYSkinFan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiS9-yPvBnY
live in yesteryear my friend, banner 18 is coming here this year

[cal_junior]

banner 18 is coming here this year

It won't be easy. They'll have two really tough series just to get out of the Eastern Conference.

I could see Boston winning the whole thing. And I could also see them losing in the second round of the playoffs to Chicago or Orlando.

[CNYSkinFan]

It won't be easy. They'll have two really tough series just to get out of the Eastern Conference.

I could see Boston winning the whole thing. And I could also see them losing in the second round of the playoffs to Chicago or Orlando.
Orlando yes, Chicago just does not have the bigs to run with us, same with Miami. Orlando does not either but they are simply so deadly from 3 they can get on a hot steak for a series and be dangerous.

Boston's injuries are always what worry me

[cal_junior]

Chicago just does not have the bigs to run with us, same with Miami.

We shall see, I suppose. Chicago has a great home court advantage and probably the best point guard in the sport. And we discussed how good Miami looked during that December/January run.

All I'm saying is I wouldn't write-off Chicago just yet. And dismissing Miami just doesn't make sense based on that team's talent.

[Dolla Bill]

Based on today's game between Lakers/Celtics, I can see Jerry West's statements as being 100% correct. When did the Lakers get "old" all of a sudden?

[CNYSkinFan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiS9-yPvBnY
you were saying?

http://espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?id=310130013

[BigCountry]

you were saying?

http://espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?id=310130013

Was there a trophy presentation I missed?

[CNYSkinFan]

Was there a trophy presentation I missed?
stay tuned....you will be watching one this june :)

[cal_junior]

Was there a trophy presentation I missed?

I'm fairly certain CNYSkinFan awarded the 2011 world title to the Celtics several months ago. It's kind of surprising the NBA is bothering to have the rest of the regular season.

[CNYSkinFan]

I'm fairly certain CNYSkinFan awarded the 2011 world title to the Celtics several months ago. It's kind of surprising the NBA is bothering to have the rest of the regular season.
they are pesky like that...

Hey I gave my props to the Lakers when they won in 2010. I made no comment when they made three extra rings for the refs. :)

[cal_junior]

they are pesky like that...

Hey I gave my props to the Lakers when they won in 2010. I made no comment when they made three extra rings for the refs. :)

The Celtics are in the mix, no doubt. But there are a half dozen teams who can make a realistic claim. And in recent years the Lakers seem to put it together when it matters most.

Those old Celtics bones have a lot of games to get through without snapping, lol.

[CNYSkinFan]

The Celtics are in the mix, no doubt. But there are a half dozen teams who can make a realistic claim. And in recent years the Lakers seem to put it together when it matters most.

Those old Celtics bones have a lot of games to get through without snapping, lol.
Seriously. I would be concerned but we have sooo much depth and seem to have avoided our customary January slump. This means once west is back we can start to limit the minutes of the bog 3 after all star break and get ready for the playoffs. They show their age on back to backno doubts but even the finals gives us a day rest.

[BigCountry]

I'm fairly certain CNYSkinFan awarded the 2011 world title to the Celtics several months ago. It's kind of surprising the NBA is bothering to have the rest of the regular season.

They can make extra rings for the hot dog guy Jack Nicholson and the good citizens of Eagle, Colorado for all I care, as long as they won.

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

No matter what happens, when u compare it to game 7, down double digits in the 2nd half to our mouth flappin,arch rivals.. i doubt it will be as sweet.

[BigCountry]

they are pesky like that...

Hey I gave my props to the Lakers when they won in 2010. I made no comment when they made three extra rings for the refs. :)

Was the post I originally mean't to quote...

[CNYSkinFan]

No matter what happens, when u compare it to game 7, down double digits in the 2nd half to our mouth flappin,arch rivals.. i doubt it will be as sweet.
well i prefer beating you to a pulp in game 6 in 2008.

Dont worry i will be rooting for the l;akers in the playoffs, because we will have a better record then them and get home court. I doubt we will catch SA but it is possible

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

well i prefer beating you to a pulp in game 6 in 2008.

Dont worry i will be rooting for the l;akers in the playoffs, because we will have a better record then them and get home court. I doubt we will catch SA but it is possible

do u remember artest canning that dagger three in pp's stankin face and then thanking his psychiatrist after the game... priceless

[BigCountry]

do u remember artest canning that dagger three in pp's stankin face and then thanking his psychiatrist after the game... priceless

Queensbridge

[CNYSkinFan]

Seriously if the lakers want to win they need to sell out and get a decent point guard. I would offer BYnum and some picks for Chris Paul. their offense stagnates late in games and they are starting to look more like the cleveland cavaliers last year...stand around and hope Kobe can will them to wins. Kobe is great, one of the best, but he cant do it all and no one else on the lakers seems to be able to generate their own offense with any consistency.

[CNYSkinFan]

Found this article interesting

http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/02/02/old-man-game-is-winning-in-the-nba

What i find interesting is the Celtics are NOT the oldest roster in the NBA, it's the Miami Heat, in fact the cs have a younger roster then the Heat, Lakers, Nuggets, and Dallas and only slightly older then Spurs and Magic.

The Miami Heat top the list at an average age of 31.32 (all those older veteran minimum deals to put around their big three cause that). Followed by the Lakers (29.98), Mavericks (29.47), Nuggets (29.09), Celtics (28.69), Magic (28.44) and Spurs (28.42). You know what else that is? A list of every NBA title contender. And Denver.



And the Celts dont just have young guys sitting on the bench. Some of their youngest players are contributing. Obviously young players like Davis, Rondo, Perkins, are a given, but rookies Erden and Harangody have had some big time minutes as the older vets got bumps and bruises.

Just thought that was interesting.

[BigCountry]

Getting really tired of Kobe Bryant. The Lakers pulled it off in the end but Gasol was finally playing with some intensity and he barely touches the ball in the 4th quarter. 2 or 3 years ago Bryant was indespensible, but now I can't help but think if the Lakers wouldn't be better off trading him in the summer to New Jersey for their first round pick and a couple of players, and making a play for one of the big free agents. I'd take Bynum, Gasol, Kyrie Irving and Carmelo Anthony (provided he doesn't get traded) over another year of Kobe and Artest wearing out the rims and their teamates in a heartbeat. Let him go to a team that will kiss his behind and stand aside while he chucks the living hell out of the ball.

[CNYSkinFan]

it would be totally awesome to see a Ray vs. Paul final in the 3 point shooting contest. Defending champ vs. the guy who most likely will break the 3 point record against LA on Thursday or Miami on Saturday (either way gotta love that)

[CNYSkinFan]

Seeing Ray stroke the record breaking 3 on a sweet assist from Rond aganst the Lakers in the Garden. A winwould be the perfect cherry on this sundae

[BigCountry]

Seeing Ray stroke the record breaking 3 on a sweet assist from Rond aganst the Lakers in the Garden. A winwould be the perfect cherry on this sundae

Too bad Allen's jock strap just ended up at the bottom of your sundae.

[BigCountry]

With the game no longer in doubt I was still nervous KG would fondle one of the Lakers. I noticed him looking at Kobe like he was dinner.

[CNYSkinFan]

With the game no longer in doubt I was still nervous KG would fondle one of the Lakers. I noticed him looking at Kobe like he was dinner.
I was coming here to concede but this was just disturbing

[akhhorus]

ESPN reports Carmelo to the Nets as part of a 9 player deal. Derrick Favors, Devin Harris+2 players and 4 first rounders going to Denver. Melo, Billups and more headed to NJ.

[cal_junior]

ESPN reports Carmelo to the Nets as part of a 9 player deal. Derrick Favors, Devin Harris+2 players and 4 first rounders going to Denver. Melo, Billups and more headed to NJ.

I think Carmelo still has to accept an extension for the deal to go through

[akhhorus]

I think Carmelo still has to accept an extension for the deal to go through

Yeah, thats the only part holding it up. Denver fleeced the Nets if it goes through.

[CNYSkinFan]

ESPN reports Carmelo to the Nets as part of a 9 player deal. Derrick Favors, Devin Harris+2 players and 4 first rounders going to Denver. Melo, Billups and more headed to NJ.
yes! Not only have the Celtics already played 3 of 4 against the nets, the nets will still be a bad team this year.

I am a little worried they make a run and get #8 and are a tough out in the first round but they are 8.5 games out and would need a ridicoulous close to get there (20-5 at least)

[SkinsfaninNJ]

Yeah, thats the only part holding it up. Denver fleeced the Nets if it goes through.

Nets feel like they have to do something to put themselves back on the map. Usually, when you feel like that, you overpay to make the move.

[akhhorus]

Nets feel like they have to do something to put themselves back on the map. Usually, when you feel like that, you overpay to make the move.

I would have offered the same package for Kobe in 6 months then lol.

[CNYSkinFan]

i do think the atlantic division will be tough, very tough for the Celtics in two years. Most likelythe big 3 are back next year (if there is a next year) but after that a team consisting of rondo Davis and perkins will be contending with Sotoudemire and felton in NY and Carmello and whatever free agents a russian billionaire can buy in the nets. The Nets could opossibly have a decent lottery pick as well.

Oh well I will live it up for now and next year!

[shally]

i do think the atlantic division will be tough, very tough for the Celtics in two years. Most likelythe big 3 are back next year (if there is a next year) but after that a team consisting of rondo Davis and perkins will be contending with Sotoudemire and felton in NY and Carmello and whatever free agents a russian billionaire can buy in the nets. The Nets could opossibly have a decent lottery pick as well.

Oh well I will live it up for now and next year!

agree. Celts will need to re tool big time within 2 years.. enjoy it while we can..

[cal_junior]

Denver Post says deal done. Melo to Knicks

"The Nuggets traded Melo to the New York Knicks tonight, a league source said. Denver gets Wilson Chandler, Raymond Felton, Danilo Gallinari, Timofey Mozgov, the Knicks 2014 first-round draft pick, the Warriors' 2012 second-round pick, the Warriors' 2013 second-round pick and $3 million in cash.

Anthony will go to New York, along with Chauncey Billups, Shelden Williams, Anthony Carter and Renaldo Balkman."

[CNYSkinFan]

I am more then a little worried about this now. However for this year I actually think NY will have trouble finding their identity. It looks like they are gunnign for next year, one more free agency where they can get a dominant big guy to pair with stoudemire and NY could be very dangerous/ Right now I think a fully healthy celtic team beats them in 6, but I don't know if we ever are going to be healthy

[SkinsfaninNJ]

I am more then a little worried about this now. However for this year I actually think NY will have trouble finding their identity. It looks like they are gunnign for next year, one more free agency where they can get a dominant big guy to pair with stoudemire and NY could be very dangerous/ Right now I think a fully healthy celtic team beats them in 6, but I don't know if we ever are going to be healthy

NY was mediocre before, and they are mediocre after. They are still no better than 5th in the east.

CBA is going to have a lot to say about the Knicks going forward. If the cap numbers drops to levels some are predicting, the Knicks won't be able to get fit another big time contract.

[akhhorus]

NY was mediocre before, and they are mediocre after. They are still no better than 5th in the east.


+1. I just don't get the move at all. They would have been better off letting someone else deal for him, then try to deal for Deron Williams or Chris Paul. Now they're really no threat in the east unless Chris Wallace deals them a legit big man for 50 cents on the dollar. You can't tell me that they wouldn't be better off giving the same package for D-Williams and flipping something for Andrew Bynum.

[NCskinsfanatic]

I like Melo but NY better hope theres not a salary cap in place or Melo and Amare is all they'll have due to not being able to afford anyone else. Also I dont see how it helps them much this season, they may improve slightly offensively but that defense is gonna be horrible imo.

My Bulls fleeced the Raptors today, now if we'd just make a move for a solid 2 guard that can score we'd be a definite threat to win the East imo.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=AuvQn_6J9xfx41wD1_jWXF85nYcB?slug=ap-bulls-raptorstrade

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

billups next year with a 14 mil expiring contract will be good trade bait

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

I like Melo but NY better hope theres not a salary cap in place or Melo and Amare is all they'll have due to not being able to afford anyone else. Also I dont see how it helps them much this season, they may improve slightly offensively but that defense is gonna be horrible imo.

My Bulls fleeced the Raptors today, now if we'd just make a move for a solid 2 guard that can score we'd be a definite threat to win the East imo.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=AuvQn_6J9xfx41wD1_jWXF85nYcB?slug=ap-bulls-raptorstrade

Saw the bulls were trying to get Mayo.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

The Nets pulled off a stunner. I haven't seen anyone talk about this as a possible deal. It seems to me the Nets gave up less to Utah to get a better player than Melo. This deal only works though if they lock up Williams long term. They should pay close attention to see if a franchise tag will really be part of the next CBA.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/basketball/nba/02/23/nets.trade.ap/index.html?eref=sihp

[akhhorus]

The Nets pulled off a stunner. I haven't seen anyone talk about this as a possible deal. It seems to me the Nets gave up less to Utah to get a better player than Melo. This deal only works though if they lock up Williams long term. They should pay close attention to see if a franchise tag will really be part of the next CBA.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/basketball/nba/02/23/nets.trade.ap/index.html?eref=sihp

Thats the deal the Knicks should have made.

[cal_junior]

The Nets pulled off a stunner. I haven't seen anyone talk about this as a possible deal. It seems to me the Nets gave up less to Utah to get a better player than Melo. This deal only works though if they lock up Williams long term. They should pay close attention to see if a franchise tag will really be part of the next CBA.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/basketball/nba/02/23/nets.trade.ap/index.html?eref=sihp

John Wall officially has no chance to ever be the All-Stat point guard for the East.

[Irish Redskin]

Perkins traded??

Thoughts?

[akhhorus]

Perkins traded??

Thoughts?

Interesting deal. They get a defending swingman in Green and a big who can shoot outside in Kristic

Also:
Baron Davis to the Cavs, Jamison might be headed to Golden State.

[BigCountry]

So the Celtics are basically one Kevin Garnett injury away from being a lesser talented version of the Knicks. That pretty much seals a Miami vs San Antonio finals.

[CNYSkinFan]

So the Celtics are basically one Kevin Garnett injury away from being a lesser talented version of the Knicks. That pretty much seals a Miami vs San Antonio finals.
I dont know about that, but I am pretty confused why we traded both perkins and erden, I am fine with either but not both. Oneal has to be closer to being healthy then is reported.

I guess if we sign troy murphy and rip hamilton after they are all bought pout perhaps that is our end game?

[skinfanjon]

I dont know about that, but I am pretty confused why we traded both perkins and erden, I am fine with either but not both. Oneal has to be closer to being healthy then is reported.

I guess if we sign troy murphy and rip hamilton after they are all bought pout perhaps that is our end game?

***HATER ALERT*** lol

Even if they get Murphy and Rip, I think this lowers their chances to beat Miami by a fairly significant amount. I think they made the move because they want extra athleticism to compete with chicago and san antonio should it unfold that way. Imo, boston just showed us who they consider their toughest opponents. If I'm miami I'm thrilled, one less big body down low to account for, and more free space in the lane on the offensive end. I have to think boston realizes this and just isn't concerned about miami at all.

[NCskinsfanatic]

Im somewhat disappointed my Bulls didnt make a deal for a SG today. Seems teams wanted Taj or Asik in return and the Bulls were hesitant to move either. I cant say i blame them with Boozers injury history and Noah just now returning from injury himself but a solid 2 guard would have pushed us closer to being one of the top 2 teams in the East imo. Hopefully someone will get bought out that can help but if not I like our chances to compete this year and take the next step in 2012.

[shally]

I dont know about that, but I am pretty confused why we traded both perkins and erden, I am fine with either but not both. Oneal has to be closer to being healthy then is reported.

I guess if we sign troy murphy and rip hamilton after they are all bought pout perhaps that is our end game?

lots of chatter about it

Perkins keeps getting hurt. now he has an injury to his Left Knee

Perkins rejected the C's offer and would likely have been a free agent after this year

The C's liked the potential development of Big Baby and chose between them

Oneal might actually be coming back this year

They needed the roster spots for 2 players to add (murphy ?? hamilton ?? dudley ??)

Above all, this is a future looking move. Ainge always said the C's of the 1980's went too long with aging stars and not rebuilding for the future. they get a top 10 pick as part of the deal which they can use to rebuild the team around Rondo when Allen and Garnett are gone..

Green is NOT really a very good defensive player now, but perhaps he will buy into the C's intensity and get better

They lose nothing in Robinson because West should be taking over that role soon enough

It is not without risk because the C's are not that good a rebounding team as it is and this doesnt help. but Pierce gets another wing man to help him in Green and they needed to find someone to replace Daniels who wont be back this season

Harongody and Erden were more valuable for their roster spots than for themselves

the big thing will be who the C's add for the playoff run beyond this move..

[shally]

***HATER ALERT*** lol

Even if they get Murphy and Rip, I think this lowers their chances to beat Miami by a fairly significant amount. I think they made the move because they want extra athleticism to compete with chicago and san antonio should it unfold that way. Imo, boston just showed us who they consider their toughest opponents. If I'm miami I'm thrilled, one less big body down low to account for, and more free space in the lane on the offensive end. I have to think boston realizes this and just isn't concerned about miami at all.

or, Orlando.. they dont fear they need Perkins to hammer Howard all night.. you are absolutely correct that this move was about facing the western opponent in the finals.. they needed to get more athletic and be able to shoot the outside 3 by someone other than Allen or Pierce..

if they get back to the finals, it was a great move because it sets them up for the future.. if they lose to either the Heat or Magic people will hate on Ainge for throwing away the season today

[CNYSkinFan]

***HATER ALERT*** lol

Even if they get Murphy and Rip, I think this lowers their chances to beat Miami by a fairly significant amount. I think they made the move because they want extra athleticism to compete with chicago and san antonio should it unfold that way. Imo, boston just showed us who they consider their toughest opponents. If I'm miami I'm thrilled, one less big body down low to account for, and more free space in the lane on the offensive end. I have to think boston realizes this and just isn't concerned about miami at all.
oh it would not be an nba thread without you in here bashing my celtics lol

[skinfanjon]

or, Orlando.. they dont fear they need Perkins to hammer Howard all night.. you are absolutely correct that this move was about facing the western opponent in the finals.. they needed to get more athletic and be able to shoot the outside 3 by someone other than Allen or Pierce..

if they get back to the finals, it was a great move because it sets them up for the future.. if they lose to either the Heat or Magic people will hate on Ainge for throwing away the season today

I hear ya shally, but I left off Orlando for a reason. With the Knicks making the Melo deal, I have the Magic as the 5th best in the East, and I think Boston thoroughly dominates them if they meet in the playoffs. 5 games or less. Agree about the Finals though, they made this deal to compete with San Antonio. Seems they are writing off the Lakers a bit.

[skinfanjon]

oh it would not be an nba thread without you in here bashing my celtics lol


You know man, depending on how the rest of the season plays out, I might be changing my prediction come playoff time. I'm gonna be tempted to take Miami and maybe even Chicago when it comes down to it. Plus its fun to bang on you in this thread lol

[CNYSkinFan]

After taking some time to really digest the Celtics Deal, I totally see the reasoning behind it, though emotionally I dont like it.

All I can think of is that Perkins was that Doc made the decision that when Shaq comes back he is the starter and Perkins would not fare well off the bench. The opportunity to get Green came up and we dealt a backu8p center and change for a backup 3-4 and change. And we get a first round pick to really help transition out of the big 2 era to the Rondo era next year.

The erden trade is what bothers me more. We better be signing troy murphy and someone else when the buyouts happen.

If we have murphy Shaq and Krstic and JO if healthy it is not much different then if erden and perk were there, and jeff green is a big upgrade over daniels on the wing. I also see Garnett playing alot more 5 which he has not done at all this year with green at 4 to close out games.

[CNYSkinFan]

You know man, depending on how the rest of the season plays out, I might be changing my prediction come playoff time. I'm gonna be tempted to take Miami and maybe even Chicago when it comes down to it. Plus its fun to bang on you in this thread lol
Its much funner when you have to recant lol

[shally]

After taking some time to really digest the Celtics Deal, I totally see the reasoning behind it, though emotionally I dont like it.

All I can think of is that Perkins was that Doc made the decision that when Shaq comes back he is the starter and Perkins would not fare well off the bench. The opportunity to get Green came up and we dealt a backu8p center and change for a backup 3-4 and change. And we get a first round pick to really help transition out of the big 2 era to the Rondo era next year.

The erden trade is what bothers me more. We better be signing troy murphy and someone else when the buyouts happen.

If we have murphy Shaq and Krstic and JO if healthy it is not much different then if erden and perk were there, and jeff green is a big upgrade over daniels on the wing. I also see Garnett playing alot more 5 which he has not done at all this year with green at 4 to close out games.


honestly, dont you feel that Krstic is at least as good as erden ? i do.. the key is J ONeal, if he comes back healthy for the playoffs, where was Perk going to get his minutes from ? More and more it is Big Baby and Garnett at crunch time in the 4th quarter.. i think it came down to keeping Baby or Perk after this year and they are rolling with the healthier player.. add in Green and you have the possibilities of a much quicker team overall

there is absolutely no reason to think other than the trrade of Harongody/Erden was simply to clear roster space for a key veteran. that is obvious..

[CNYSkinFan]

honestly, dont you feel that Krstic is at least as good as erden ? i do.. the key is J ONeal, if he comes back healthy for the playoffs, where was Perk going to get his minutes from ? More and more it is Big Baby and Garnett at crunch time in the 4th quarter.. i think it came down to keeping Baby or Perk after this year and they are rolling with the healthier player.. add in Green and you have the possibilities of a much quicker team overall

there is absolutely no reason to think other than the trrade of Harongody/Erden was simply to clear roster space for a key veteran. that is obvious..
i just hope we get who we want, buyouts are always risky. Espescially with a lockout looming some bottom feeder teams may decide to gamble and not buyout multiple years hoping a CBA will void old contracts.

I do think krstic is better then erden, and green is better then perk, and nate robinson was a liability once west came back, so right now we are a better team with a huge liability at 5 unless we get healthy all of a sudden, instead of a huge liablility on the wings

[Keino]

After taking some time to really digest the Celtics Deal, I totally see the reasoning behind it, though emotionally I dont like it.

All I can think of is that Perkins was that Doc made the decision that when Shaq comes back he is the starter and Perkins would not fare well off the bench. The opportunity to get Green came up and we dealt a backu8p center and change for a backup 3-4 and change. And we get a first round pick to really help transition out of the big 2 era to the Rondo era next year.

The erden trade is what bothers me more. We better be signing troy murphy and someone else when the buyouts happen.

If we have murphy Shaq and Krstic and JO if healthy it is not much different then if erden and perk were there, and jeff green is a big upgrade over daniels on the wing. I also see Garnett playing alot more 5 which he has not done at all this year with green at 4 to close out games.

It's a move with an eye on the future exchanging Size for versatlity. Green can play 3 court positions and I don't think The Cs were going to want to break bread with Perk when his contract came due. I could see Green playing the 4 to close out games but I could also see him playing the 2 against Miami so as to keep Pierce and Allen's legs fresh.

[shally]

It's a move with an eye on the future exchanging Size for versatlity. Green can play 3 court positions and I don't think The Cs were going to want to break bread with Perk when his contract came due. I could see Green playing the 4 to close out games but I could also see him playing the 2 against Miami so as to keep Pierce and Allen's legs fresh.

Bingo !! this was about saving wear on Pierce for the 7th games in playoff series.

they were also hoping to gt a younger version of Posey, in Green.. that remains to be seen because Posey was versatile defensively.. Green ? not so much..

on the other hand, the Celtics' veterans have a way of getting players to buy into the team defense system. we will see

[BigCountry]

Bingo !! this was about saving wear on Pierce for the 7th games in playoff series.

they were also hoping to gt a younger version of Posey, in Green.. that remains to be seen because Posey was versatile defensively.. Green ? not so much..

on the other hand, the Celtics' veterans have a way of getting players to buy into the team defense system. we will see

Not even close to Posey defensively, which is what his calling card was.

[shally]

Not even close to Posey defensively, which is what his calling card was.

he also was very effective from 3 point range. that was what made Posey such a valuable asset. it was a big part of the reason the C's failed in the second attempt against the Lakers

[shally]

short note

Perkins looks to be out 2-3 weeks after injuring his "good" knee in his last game as a Celtic

Krstic looke far more solid than Erden ever did starting at Center last night against the Clips.. Green came off the bench and did ok and the Celts beat the Clippers

by the time the playoffs roll around, i think that the C's will be a better team, PROVIDED either Shaq or J Oneal can stay healthy.. if both are healthy enough to play, the C's match up with anything that could come out of the west

[BigCountry]

Too bad the Lakers aren't dialed in on defense like that more often because they cannot be beat when they are.

[CNYSkinFan]

What I have said about the Heat all year long is continuing to happen. They may have a good record because they destroy weaker opponents, but against teams with winning records they are 13-14. More oer they are 5-11 in games decided by 5 points or less.

The next 10 games they face opponents with records averaging out to .682. If they continue to sputter you have to wonder if they will ever get it together this season and if there is not going to be a coaching change in the offseason. Mike Bibby and troy murphy may give them a decent pg and a serviceable big, but the fact is they are flawed at their core when it comes to a stagnant offense in the 4th quarter.

And vs. the East contenders (Boston, Chicago, Orlando) they are 1-6! That one win coming against Orlando in the first week of the season pre-arenas trade. In fact they only contender they have a winning record against is LA 1-0. They are 0-2 vs Dallas, and yet to play SA.

This illustrates my earlier point about Miami not beating anyone. They are bullies agaisnt the wimps of the conference but when the big boys come down the hall they get shoved in a locker.

[CNYSkinFan]

troy Murphy obviously read my post and decided to come to boston instead

[smoot]

Bibby will be a real nice piece for the Heat

[shally]

troy Murphy obviously read my post and decided to come to boston instead

huge deal.. gives them another outside shooter, and a very solid Def rebounder.. a lot of flexibility now..

adding Brewer to finish the puzzle ?? or possibly holding a spot for a later acquisition ?

[skinfanjon]

What I have said about the Heat all year long is continuing to happen. They may have a good record because they destroy weaker opponents, but against teams with winning records they are 13-14. More oer they are 5-11 in games decided by 5 points or less.

The next 10 games they face opponents with records averaging out to .682. If they continue to sputter you have to wonder if they will ever get it together this season and if there is not going to be a coaching change in the offseason. Mike Bibby and troy murphy may give them a decent pg and a serviceable big, but the fact is they are flawed at their core when it comes to a stagnant offense in the 4th quarter.

And vs. the East contenders (Boston, Chicago, Orlando) they are 1-6! That one win coming against Orlando in the first week of the season pre-arenas trade. In fact they only contender they have a winning record against is LA 1-0. They are 0-2 vs Dallas, and yet to play SA.

This illustrates my earlier point about Miami not beating anyone. They are bullies agaisnt the wimps of the conference but when the big boys come down the hall they get shoved in a locker.

I can't disagree with any of this.

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

I would so love to see the knicks beat the Heat in 1st rd.

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

heat sign bibby... dang fisher might be able to guard him

[CNYSkinFan]

I was just wondering if Cal would like to come in here and defend Miami again.

Last night's loss to Orlando brings their records against contenders (LAL,BOS,SA,DAL,CHI) to 1-7 (4-9 if you include Orlando and OKC as contenders, i dont), winning teams to 14-16 and games within 5 points to 5-12.

In fact the only teams with Winning records they have won their season series with are LA Lakers (43-19) 1-0, Philadelphia (30-30) 2-0, Phoenix (31-28) 2-0, Portland (34-27). If you take out phoenix and portland as they could conceivably finish less then .500 you are looking at a 10-16 record with teams over .525. Just horrible

They play the spurs twice in the next week and they will get lucky as tony parker is out. I am actually hoping for them to win them both as I want the Celts to catch SA.

[shally]

I was just wondering if Cal would like to come in here and defend Miami again.

Last night's loss to Orlando brings their records against contenders (LAL,BOS,SA,DAL,CHI) to 1-7 (4-9 if you include Orlando and OKC as contenders, i dont), winning teams to 14-16 and games within 5 points to 5-12.

In fact the only teams with Winning records they have won their season series with are LA Lakers (43-19) 1-0, Philadelphia (30-30) 2-0, Phoenix (31-28) 2-0, Portland (34-27). If you take out phoenix and portland as they could conceivably finish less then .500 you are looking at a 10-16 record with teams over .525. Just horrible

They play the spurs twice in the next week and they will get lucky as tony parker is out. I am actually hoping for them to win them both as I want the Celts to catch SA.

i think they will be more dangeous inthe playoffs than folks are giving them credit for.. they wont win the conference, but i expect at least one surprise out of them.. dont count them out because they have enough individual talent to win some series

[CNYSkinFan]

i think they will be more dangeous inthe playoffs than folks are giving them credit for.. they wont win the conference, but i expect at least one surprise out of them.. dont count them out because they have enough individual talent to win some series
see i am not sure they get past the knicks. Right now they are paired up with philly, but if chicago overtakes them, and in the stretch miami has to play over the next two weeks thazt is very very possible, then they have a first round matchup with the knicks. Chauncey Billups is the kind of guard that miami does not want to face.

Heck it is possible Orlando could catch them if they have a major stumble, though not likely.

[shally]

see i am not sure they get past the knicks. Right now they are paired up with philly, but if chicago overtakes them, and in the stretch miami has to play over the next two weeks thazt is very very possible, then they have a first round matchup with the knicks. Chauncey Billups is the kind of guard that miami does not want to face.

Heck it is possible Orlando could catch them if they have a major stumble, though not likely.

Celt's signed Sasha Pavlovik.. silent signing. not much fanfare

as for the Heat, i think they are a bunch of "stars" who dont want to do the dirty work during the season. they fully expect to turn it on in the playoffs.. to an extent, i think they will do just that. but, you cant change your basic character overnight and in the end, that is going to doom them.. still, if they get through the first round without getting upset they will be a tough foe for anyone after that..simply too much individual talent

[CNYSkinFan]

Celt's signed Sasha Pavlovik.. silent signing. not much fanfare

as for the Heat, i think they are a bunch of "stars" who dont want to do the dirty work during the season. they fully expect to turn it on in the playoffs.. to an extent, i think they will do just that. but, you cant change your basic character overnight and in the end, that is going to doom them.. still, if they get through the first round without getting upset they will be a tough foe for anyone after that..simply too much individual talent
normally when we talk about teams turning it on is where you have talented teams who get lazy against inferior opponents in the rgular season (like the Celtics last year) but have the tenacity and talent as well as the experience to turn it on in the playoffs. Miami has beat up on the weaklings, the problem is the good teams, they are getting killed by the elites and dont fare much better with the average teams. The only signature win is against a weaker la laker team. This stretch where they play SA twice and some teams averaging over .600 winning percentage. If they start turning it on now, whycih they have not done, then I can see your points.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

normally when we talk about teams turning it on is where you have talented teams who get lazy against inferior opponents in the rgular season (like the Celtics last year) but have the tenacity and talent as well as the experience to turn it on in the playoffs. Miami has beat up on the weaklings, the problem is the good teams, they are getting killed by the elites and dont fare much better with the average teams. The only signature win is against a weaker la laker team. This stretch where they play SA twice and some teams averaging over .600 winning percentage. If they start turning it on now, whycih they have not done, then I can see your points.

I can't wait for the playoffs to see how these "super" teams like Heat and Knicks play. I'm watching the Spurs/Heat game, and the Spurs have led big most of the night (posting in the third so the Heat could come back in the fourth), but I'm thinking if I had to take 10 players from either team to create teams 7 of those guys are coming from the Spurs. How are the Heat going to deal with teams that have 7 or 8 truly talented players when they just about nothing after Wade James and Bosh? Speaking of Bosh, there are at least 3 Spurs, if not 4 who are better than Bosh.

[CNYSkinFan]

Dear Erik Poelstra....rent dont buy

[CNYSkinFan]

1-9 against the elites (bos,Chi,SA,LA,DAL)
4-11 if you include Orlando and OKC.
14-18 against teams .500 or better.
5-13 when game is within less then 5 points

i don't remember any "championship" team with these kinds of records this late in the season

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

meanwhile.... the lakers curb stomp the spurs

[CNYSkinFan]

meanwhile.... the lakers curb stomp the spurs
i was fine with that, pulls the cs within 3 losses if we can hold court tonight.

[RedskinsDave]

Poor little Dwayne Wade. The Heat players are all victims I guess. Everyone is against them. Its a shame that those other teams are having something to say about the Three Suckswithtears self-coronation.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

meanwhile.... the lakers curb stomp the spurs

Lakers look really focused. We'll see if they can keep it up. They have had other good stretches earlier this season followed by awful play.

The Lakers repaid the beating the Spurs gave them earlier this year.

I hope these two do not face off until the West Finals. The two best teams of the last decade going at it one more time would be fun to see.

[SkinsfaninNJ]

1-9 against the elites (bos,Chi,SA,LA,DAL)
4-11 if you include Orlando and OKC.
14-18 against teams .500 or better.
5-13 when game is within less then 5 points

i don't remember any "championship" team with these kinds of records this late in the season

I have come to the conclusion that they are just not that good. 3 guys are never going to beat 7 or 8.

I love LeBron saying he is not going to keep letting his team down at the end of games. When exactly where you this stone cold killer at the end of games LeBron? What you are doing now is consistent with your career path.

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

i was fine with that, pulls the cs within 3 losses if we can hold court tonight.


If by some small miracle the playoffs meet a healthy Bynum for the first time...

There's gonna be some curb stomping going on. That is all.

[CNYSkinFan]

Lakers look really focused. We'll see if they can keep it up. They have had other good stretches earlier this season followed by awful play.

The Lakers repaid the beating the Spurs gave them earlier this year.

I hope these two do not face off until the West Finals. The two best teams of the last decade going at it one more time would be fun to see.
the Lakers this year remind me of the celtics last year. They dont care about the regular season, they are gearing upfor the stretch run. I still believe it will be a c's laker final. but this time we will have home court and perhaps not have to play 8 on 5 ball in game 7 again.

[CNYSkinFan]

If by some small miracle the playoffs meet a healthy Bynum for the first time...

There's gonna be some curb stomping going on. That is all.
Your hinging your hopes on bynum, I am hinging mine on Shaq getting healthy for a playoff run.

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

Your hinging your hopes on bynum, I am hinging mine on Shaq getting healthy for a playoff run.

Shaq, seriously?

[CNYSkinFan]

Shaq, seriously?
Shaq played very well for us with the starting 4 earlier in the year, it is why once Perk got healthy we could trade him. I think the old man may surprise you with what he has left in the tank for the playoffs. He has been rested and will get about 15 games to get back up to speed before ebntering the playoffs. Shaq, Davis, Garnett, Krstic could be enough bodies to throw at the wondertwins.

and if somehow J'Oneal can be a body to throw out there too I would be happy with that

[CNYSkinFan]

this could be the greatest collapse of a supposed great team in nba history. It is just sad but it is true, Miami can not beat good teams, only wimps. 1st round exit in the playoff i highly likely

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

meanwhile bynum goes 8/10 for 16 and 16 boards in curb stomping the hawks

[CNYSkinFan]

meanwhile bynum goes 8/10 for 16 and 16 boards in curb stomping the hawks
Lakers are definitely ramping up. Which i am glad about. I want the rubber match. Celtics vs lakers for the third time in four years would be awesome. aand this time we will have homecourt again.

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

Lakers are definitely ramping up. Which i am glad about. I want the rubber match. Celtics vs lakers for the third time in four years would be awesome. aand this time we will have homecourt again.

A healthy Bynum lakers would scoff at home court. jus sayin

Also, youre 2 gms up on lakers and bulls

and LA is about to run up on a 8 gm homestand

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

scratch that. 1.5 gms back after clippers beat celtix

[BigCountry]

scratch that. 1.5 gms back after clippers beat celtix

A couple of years ago you were praising Bynum and I said I'm coming to your house if he gets hurt. This time I might actually do it.

[CNYSkinFan]

A couple of years ago you were praising Bynum and I said I'm coming to your house if he gets hurt. This time I might actually do it.
I remember that lol

[CNYSkinFan]

scratch that. 1.5 gms back after clippers beat celtix
but 3 losses and the lakers and celtics dont play each other again this season.

BTW anyone know the tiebreakers in the nBA? I know them for the NFL but not the NBA

[CNYSkinFan]

It's conference record. and so far Boston owns it against the Lakers too.

Boston split head-to-head with LA , but lead in second tiebreak, conference record - 30-7 vs 26-11.

So essentially Boston needs to collapse and play losing bball and have alot of their losses. With 20 games back Boston would have to go 11-9 and Lakers 13-4 for them to catch up. Not undoable for the Lakers but Boston is not about to play that poorly with Chicago and the heat chasing them

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

A couple of years ago you were praising Bynum and I said I'm coming to your house if he gets hurt. This time I might actually do it.

Im making a guarantee contingent on his health. His praise, when healthy is warranted.

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

It's conference record. and so far Boston owns it against the Lakers too.

Boston split head-to-head with LA , but lead in second tiebreak, conference record - 30-7 vs 26-11.

So essentially Boston needs to collapse and play losing bball and have alot of their losses. With 20 games back Boston would have to go 11-9 and Lakers 13-4 for them to catch up. Not undoable for the Lakers but Boston is not about to play that poorly with Chicago and the heat chasing them

na 14-3 and 13-7 will do it. they need to better them by 4 in loss column, not 5

[BigCountry]

Im making a guarantee contingent on his health. His praise, when healthy is warranted.

Artest steps on his ankle and he can't get a rebound. This is why he can't be trusted.

[CNYSkinFan]

Artest steps on his ankle and he can't get a rebound. This is why he can't be trusted.
exactly...Bynum is a known injury plagued player. If the Lakers are making his health contingent on their success then it is an issue. And it still took 7 games last year with a healthy Bynum (well healthy for bynum) and Cs to be down one of their startign 5 for the lakers to win...and they did not add any talent to their team, just got older. Say what you want about the lakers we added size and young talent with Green and Rondo getting older and more assured is a nice blend.

[BigCountry]

exactly...Bynum is a known injury plagued player. If the Lakers are making his health contingent on their success then it is an issue. And it still took 7 games last year with a healthy Bynum (well healthy for bynum) and Cs to be down one of their startign 5 for the lakers to win...and they did not add any talent to their team, just got older. Say what you want about the lakers we added size and young talent with Green and Rondo getting older and more assured is a nice blend.

So is Perkins the reason you lost or are you better without him while adding Kristic and Jeff Green?

[CNYSkinFan]

So is Perkins the reason you lost or are you better without him while adding Kristic and Jeff Green?
both

losing perkins in Game 7 and having no depth and length on the bench hurt us in game 7. having Wallace and Davis playing the 5 did not allow us to significantly combat the size of gasol and bynum,

HOWEVER

Green is the kind of player the celtics have needed off the bench for awhile. A wingman who can defend the 3 and 4 but more importantly can generate his own shot and produce offense outside of the big 4. Kristic is ok, however the gambkle by Ainge, and it is a gamble, sis that Shaq and JO can get healthy enough to make a playorff run. They need 25-30 minutes from shaq per game in the playoffs and 10 from JO or Murphy to make this trade work perfectly.

still with nate and perk going down for weeks shortly after the trade it is hard to beat up ainge for this.

[BigCountry]

both
losing perkins in Game 7 and having no depth and length on the bench hurt us in game 7. having Wallace and Davis playing the 5 did not allow us to significantly combat the size of gasol and bynum,

HOWEVER

Green is the kind of player the celtics have needed off the bench for awhile. A wingman who can defend the 3 and 4 but more importantly can generate his own shot and produce offense outside of the big 4. Kristic is ok, however the gambkle by Ainge, and it is a gamble, sis that Shaq and JO can get healthy enough to make a playorff run. They need 25-30 minutes from shaq per game in the playoffs and 10 from JO or Murphy to make this trade work perfectly.

still with nate and perk going down for weeks shortly after the trade it is hard to beat up ainge for this.

You are a Celtics fan. :Peace:

[BigCountry]

Highway robbery.

[CNYSkinFan]

Highway robbery.
http://boinc.berkeley.edu/w/images/thumb/2/2c/Broom_icon.svg/400px-Broom_icon.svg.png

[BigCountry]

http://boinc.berkeley.edu/w/images/thumb/2/2c/Broom_icon.svg/400px-Broom_icon.svg.png

Regular season sweeps mean as much as Eric Spoelstra's contract.

[akhhorus]

Kobe was the MVP of that game lol

[CNYSkinFan]

Regular season sweeps mean as much as Eric Spoelstra's contract.
sure but I am pretty sure you would be making hey if the heat swept the cs..

still the only team the heat could beat in the top 5 were the lakers, and they beat them twice....with a healthy bynum

[BigCountry]

Kobe was the MVP of that game lol

Yeah and if it's not bad enough, when he does that everyone else becomes disinterested on both ends of the floor. Lakers played really dumb offense the entire second half.

[BigCountry]

sure but I am pretty sure you would be making hey if the heat swept the cs..

still the only team the heat could beat in the top 5 were the lakers, and they beat them twice....with a healthy bynum

That game could have gone either way and it was almost a playoff game for the Heat. Not sure why the Lakers reverted back to their pre all-star game form but I think the Lakers can take them in a 7 game series.

[CNYSkinFan]

That game could have gone either way and it was almost a playoff game for the Heat. Not sure why the Lakers reverted back to their pre all-star game form but I think the Lakers can take them in a 7 game series.
I agree, mainly because Miami is soo flawed. reports are Kobe spent an hour on the floor after the game shooting and in the weightroom well past midnight. Man I hate him because he is a Laker but he is the most competitive guy since Jordan. He is in party central south beach and in the gym and on the court trying to work out his frustration.

[Taylor21TheUndertaker]

So simple math is the celtics beat lakers in 6 when there was no bynum and a gimpy ariza, then lost to lakers in 7 with a gimpy bynum


a healthy bynum = trouble

[CNYSkinFan]

So simple math is the celtics beat lakers in 6 when there was no bynum and a gimpy ariza, then lost to lakers in 7 with a gimpy bynum


a healthy bynum = trouble
yes we get it, no matter what, you love the lakers....slurp