Alonzo Mourning For Three!

I think every team in the NBA should be regulated to wear team colored shoes, somewhat like the NFL. What is my reasoning you ask? 1. They look super hot, just look at those Kevin Durant shoes all of OKC wore below. Who doesn't want to see purple shoes on Kevin Martin or yellow shoes on Monta Ellis? 2. I really don't give a fuck about shoe deals or any of the drama in them, like when Mike Miller wore some LeBron's against the Cavs.

I mean that is team unity. Of course I must use a disclaimer in my love for brightly colored clothing that is unnecessary and ugly.

Also I know very few basketball quotes but these two are my favorites:

“I thought LeBron James was just going to be another addition to help me score.” - Ricky Davis

That one really speaks for itself, Ricky Fuckin' Davis everyone.

"I'd seen Maravich play in New Orleans, when the Utah Jazz were the New Orleans Jazz. He was something to see - mop of brown hair, floppy socks - the holy terror of the basketball world - high flyin' - magician of the court. The night I saw him he dribbled the ball with his head, scored a behind-the-back, no-look basket - dribbled the length of the court, threw the ball up over the glass and caught his own pass. He was fantastic. Scored something like 38 points. He could have played blind." - Bob Dylan

posted by: Jason

I Can't Understand Football Anymore

I know it has been another long while and that we are not fulfilling the needs of great sports writing that you clearly deserve. However you have to realize that we are a couple guys with a lot to do. You may not know us but we are all about good times, indie clothes, solid music and sports. I need to start saving the text messages and start writing down some of our conversations about different athletic events and post those for these in between times when it's too hard to write full, or even half, stories. Alright we don't have a PR guy so you'll have to accept that as our formal apology.

Dear Tim Tebow,

Every should know off the bat that I am a huge Florida fan. But watching them this year has been nothing short of a struggle. Watching that offense just spurt and putter through so many games was horrible. Watching that defense gang tackle and be absolutely stellar was fun until they kept getting gashed trying to stop the run. It was set up perfectly all year; both undefeated, a much hyped rematch, Florida losing to Alabama. Watching all season I knew it could happen. I knew the defense would have to play perfect and that the offense would have to find some rhythm maybe in the running game. Tebow couldn't rally anything because there was no one on the offense to talk to, and when he went to pump up the defense it was far to late and hard to buy in to because he put them on the field all game, they were beat and exhausted. 'Bama's kid quarterback didn't scare me, neither did Julio Jones, but Ingram did and he proved me wise. The defense did all they could in the first half, but in the second half the offense couldn't stay on the field and everyone, including a injured Brandon Spikes, was done.

Does this hurt the Tim Tebow legacy? Yes, he should have been able to deliver a perfect season and another title and another Heisman. But in reality it isn't horrible, certainly disappointing, but I am far more worried about the next few years. Remember when the Gators won back to back titles in basketball? As do I, but you have to remember the two year rebuilding and restocking period after that. This year they seem to be back to some of that glory, but they are young and the polls hate them. Now what does Urban Meyer do? He couldn't even restock that offense with Tim there and that defense still intact. Everyone will leave and they will probably fall out of favor for at least one, if not two years. And I am sure there are plenty of good articles on Tebow and his legacy being diminished or staying true or whatever. I don't care, I won't read them. Tim Tebow is still the same for me, not the greatest college player but a damn good winner, this loss doesn't change things for me as much as it does for others. Despite all of this I still love Tebow and Meyer and Spikes for what they did these past four years (that is until they go unranked at the end of next year).

Minor Hits

As bad as Saturday was for me (Florida, Nebraska, Pittsburgh, and even Clemson all losing), Sunday was awesome for me (Dolphins, Saints, Packers, Broncos, Raiders, Giants and Cardinals all won).

Also I finally think we are in dire need of a playoff system for college football. The playing field is becoming more level therefore all the upsets over the last few years. And with five, five undefeated teams how can you deny three of them a chance at the title? Make a playoff, make it good and work out any kinks quickly and maybe this means Florida wins more titles.

Louis Murphy (wideout from the Gators, now a Raider) has been pretty great this year and was a definite steal in the draft. He outplayed the whole Steelers secondary and if he is playing like a seasoned veteran right now. He makes me think that Dallas Baker still deserves a chance on some team and not the practice squad. It still saddens me that the only time I saw him on television was Big Ben throwing a ball to him, at his feet, five yards ahead of him. But he still got that ring! Anyways it made me think who could be that overlooked receiver this year that ends up being a draft steal. I think everyone knows about Golden Tate but for some reason his rankings still are not that high yet. I have a hunch his stock will start going up towards the draft. So instead I have two players that could make big impacts. Jordan Shipley of Texas and Marshawn Gilyard of Cincy. Shipley seems to run good routes and is pretty quick and has return skills, but I'm still not positive. It could be that whole room mate thing with Colt McCoy, like Tebow with Riley Skinner who is honestly not that good. After watching that Pitt-Cincy game I saw a lot out of Gilyard who had apparently done that all year. He has some speed and great size. I just haven't watched enough to know about his football IQ and route running or his hands.

I know this is a year or two away but I'm going to go ahead and say the Dolphins draft AJ Green when he declares. He is so good and they need him so bad. Imagine him as the one Bess as the two and put Hartline or Camarillo in the slot. That instantly helps that receiving corps. which are in dire need of help.

Enough football i don't even understand that sport anymore. Let us talk basketball now, it is so much simpler and easy to watch and play and just a smooth game.

I love stats, even the weird ones that ESPN sometimes has to reach for and put on air because they are having a slow sports day. Then there are stats that are just amazing like Carmelo Anthony playing 760 minutes and scoring 622 points so far this season or one point for every 1.2 minutes played. So of course I was excited when I saw this stat on ESPN's Weekend Dime:

Now I don't care that three of the five are Lakers players, or that Andrew Bogut is in this list because of Brandon Jennings being great so that he can play in the paint, I like this because Monta Ellis is third on the list. If you remember a couple of years ago Monta was the new Dwyane Wade, or Flash 2.o, then he gets injured on a mo-ped and talks about the team a little and everyone forgets about him. But I never did, he talks about that team because they handle everything poorly, it was pretty minor surgery if I remember correctly so that never worried me. Now here he is, somewhat a team leader to the players, scoring all the time and even playing a little defense with a bunch of steals. I just want to take this moment to say that Monta Ellis is still good and will continue to be good.

While I am at it, why didn't the Cavs go after this kid like I asked? Their weakest position right now is two guard because Anthony Parker is mostly garbage. I understand the thinking of putting shooters all around LeBron so he can drive and dish, but then why get Shaq and why didn't it work against the Magic? We need another player than can create and drive on his own, when all that trade talk about Stephen Jackson came up I kept thinking it should have been about Monta. Now though I understand it would be hard to pry him from Oakland's death grip on him, but two guard is still a problem for them. So why can't we take a buried treasure from another trashy team? The Nets have three starting caliber shooting guards, all of them young (Courtney Lee, Terrance Williams, Chris Douglas-Roberts). Terrance is their 1st round pick and still a rookie, CDR is playing out of his mind right now so Mr. Lee seems to be the odd man out and my favorite of the three anyways. He did great against the Cavs in the finals, he can shoot and drive a little bit and plays defense so he would fit right in here. If not I'd really like to see the Cavs go after Evan Turner. I know he just broke his back but he is good. He's got size and an all around game that would develop greatly with LeBron, much like Hickson finally seems to be doing. He plays at Ohio State and averages 18.5 points a game, 6 assists, 11 rebounds, and a steal and block a game. He would be a great complement and a way to get younger.

Forgive me but I think I'm kinda digging Danilo Gallinari. He is doing exactly whats expected of him and that's scoring and spreading the floor with his size. Its taken Andrea Bargnani far longer to get to that level and Danilo is still really young and has a good relationship with coach D'Antoni. I expect he'll only get better offensively and probably get worse defensively but oh well.

posted by: Jason

Average Speed Hits

The Dolphins Dilemma

The Dolphins should be 4-2, or at the least 3-3. Losing Chad Pennington seems to be a great thing because Chad Henne is playing like the QB of the future. So consider that they have their QB of the future and the offensive line is good and young, what's needed on the offense? A number one receiver obviously, hopefully Ted Ginn gets flipped for a decent pick. How good would Marques Colston look in the teal and orange? Not gonna happen, I assume they will take another later round pick on some wide out projects maybe something good is in free agency, I wouldn't mind if they flipped a trade for say Domenik Hixon he has the capability to be a great wide out has some return skills and is very available for trade. Also Ricky Williams signed a one year deal that means we need a replacement soon. How much longer can Jerry Jones keep all three of those backs, cause Tashard Choice would be a good fit. Someone even better would be CJ Spiller from Clemson if they can get him in the second round, a speedy, play making back with return skills. Much like their own Leon Washington. Considering how weak the running back class is I think Spiller will be gone early, so a late round flier on Noel Devine would also be a very good player to invest in. When did Anthony Fasano turn into suck a terrible scumbag? Is Vernon Davis going to be available? How good would it go over to get him back with his brother and have a pass catching tight end again. As long as he were to keep up the production he is making this year. As for this defense that is built to rush the passer yet is so inconsistent that one half they'll almost shut out the best offensive team in the league, yet come the second half they give up 22 in the third alone. One big problem is awful safety play. The corners are young and will make mistakes these guys were supposed to help them out a little. So what do you say we move Sean Smith, who played some safety in college and is struggling at corner a bit, to a safety spot and try to trade one who's left over? I think he is much better suited for an Antrel Rolle type move to safety. What else makes that defensive backfield better? Consistent pressure on the QB of course. Well we really need a dominating nose tackle because our ends our young and very good already so with our first pick I would hope we take Ndamukong Suh who is on a tear this year and would vastly upgrade our D-line by making things happen. Another viable first round pick would be Brandon Spikes as an interior linebacker to make plays. While it is a weak running back class it is also a weak corner back class which means that a Joe Haden, who could be brought in to replace Sean Smith when he moves to safety, may be taken to soon. But if he is attainable I'd draft him right away. He learned the position quickly and reminds me of say an Ike Taylor not flashy, but solid, just really great. So say you don't get Joe, Sean Witherspoon would be a nice addition to our aging outside linebacker corps in the second round. He is a tackling machine and the hype on him seems very low after being projected the top outside linebacker this earlier this year. But what do you do for that other corner then? Well obviously take a look into free agency which they may do again anyways, but another corner to look at around the third round is Javier Arenas for Alabama. I've watched him several times and he always seems to be making plays. Because of his size he may not turn into that second corner but he is a very good nickel corner to back up Vonte Davis and Will Allen. He also is a damn good return man too. These are just a few ideas, I'm not that far down on my 'Fins just yet but they should be playing better. I think that this may be a little hiccup in the long term plans of the Dolphins being relevant again.

Love/Hate Player Relationship

Everyone has players they like, players they hate and players that are just neutral. Now these players can change sides very quickly, some have no immunity. Take half the Dolphins roster for example, love them all, it's my favorite team, if that same half left I'd hate them cause I never really liked them even when they were 'Fins. Anyways here are a few players that I used to be neutral against but now seem to be turning the block and getting me to like them a little.
Cedric Benson - A high pick bust for years with the Bears, was over weight and an under achiever. Now he goes to the Bengals and played in obscurity for a half year. Now however he is in shape running with patience and isn't allowing anything to get in the way of that. Way to turn the corner.
Rashard Mendenhall - Another first round back with a big mouth and little production. Never really impressed me in college and wasn't doing much before getting placed on the IR his rookie year. Now after being benched a game, he seemed to get the message real quick, and after hearing him speak about it, you can see he really believes in it. It also helps that he was a waiver pickup for my fantasy team.
Rajon Rondo - A guard who was handed the keys to a championship team. I never liked how he was given an easy job just pass off to any of the big three, and how slimy he seemed to play. Also didn't like him getting nippy with the Bulls players in last years playoff series. But in that same series I saw that he did more than give the ball up and the feisty, scrawny kid played better than Derrick Rose who got all the hype that series.
Jokim Noah - Played his heart on for two titles at Florida, got drafted far too high because of that and made me dislike him for seemingly being ohk as a flame-out in the league. Flash to that playoff series when he goes coast to coast and gets the and 1, then you really see what his energy means to the team. I just wish he'd learn a few better post moves.


Some Names To Watch For This NBA Season

Every years there are lists upon lists of players to watch for, rookies, second year players to make the jump and veterans switching teams. So let me give you a few interesting players this year.
Carmelo Anthony - Watching the Nuggets last post season made me a fan. He scores at will sometimes, his shot is so fluid, almost like a guards shot. I'm obviously a fan of Cleveland and LeBron James, but 'Melo exploits match ups better, passes better and goes into the post with good moves. Doesn't rebound as well or play as good defense but still he is real good.
Brandon Jennings - As a high schooler he had a lot of promise and media exposure for his move overseas. Since going however he seems to have become a lesser known and slipped on draft day. But he is in a pretty good situation, the Bucks are pesky players. He has shooting around him and I have a feeling Hakim Warrick and Andrew Bougart will flourish off his drive and dish play style. If they stay healthy and play well together this team could make the jump to playoffs this year because of his play.
Jason Williams - White Chocolate is back in town. I have nothing more to say other than watching him exploit the defense in Orlando's final preseason game. He's still got game now let's see how well he will thrive in a backup role.

posted by: Jason

Well Browns Fans

Are you guys at least looking forward to when you draft Tyrell Pryor that the games will be fun to watch?

Quick Hits

First off:
Seneca Wallace makes these jerseys look sexy. I always, always love bright colors, usually. So good attempt Seattle. Also Seneca Wallace is the best back-up QB in the league. Every time he steps in not only is Matt Hasselbeck hurt, but so is his offensive line and half his weapons and even his defense. He actually played the same amount of time as Matt last year and was the better QB.

Anyways let's segway Seneca Wallace in to Josh Cribbs and the Browns. The Brownies need, a lot. What is a great idea, since the season is shot and they aren't even exciting to watch like say the Golden State Warriors, is find teams willing to trade for Derek Anderson (although I still have to like him), Brady Quinn and Jamal Lewis and pick up either good picks or good defensive players. Really need an end and another good linebacker. Maybe search free agency for a speedy wideout too. But you move Cribbs to QB, much like Seneca, and start James Harrison with James Davis as his backup at running back and Edwards and Furrey and the speedy guy or one of the rooks in the slot. So you've got a big time wideout, and a possession guy and hopefully a speedy guy and at running back you finally have a running back instead of a declining fullback! That oline still is decent and if you give them an assignment to be the best run blocking line in the league, I believe they'll take it in stride and succeed. So you become a running team, throw in so trick more trick plays, have Cribbs just not create turnovers and manage with slants and runs and play actions, nothing serious for the most part and that offense is already better than it currently is. Hopefully you find teams dumb enough to give you starters on defense because what you really want to do is build that stellar D. Then blitz, a lot. Constant pressure on the opposing team cause so turnovers, you're allowing points anyways might as well make something happen. At least that team is fun to watch, draft a quarterback next year do whatever you want. I hate the Browns it's a pathetic team.

Now finally the Ronnie Brownfins lost Chad Pennington for the season and traded for Tyler Thigpen. Not bad I hope he can open up the offense and throw the deep ball finally. I mean he succeed with the Chiefs last year, I think this team is a lot better and it's a running team anyways. Honestly he is just a fill in QB for when Ronnie Brown gets too tired to hand off to Ronnie Brown or is exhausted from throwing to Ronnie Brown. Let's get to .500?

Also I'll just wait until next week to update the Sleepers thingy.

posted by: Jason

Sleepers

So sleepers are basically random players that people pick cause they like their name, or the way they look, or they made some nice play. Sometimes they pick obviously players who played well the year before and are thrust in to the starting lineup this year or pick rookies. Other times they pick players buried deep in the depth chart that have talent and no one knows and are poised to make a breakout. Every few weeks we will compare Ben and my picks. So far the number is three players, I have all mine, he only has two currently. Must still be searching for that white guy with skillz.

Jason's Top 3 Sleepers:

Johnny Knox - speedy wideout for the Bears, Jay Cutler's Eddie Royal only better this year.
Week 1: 2 REC 82 YDS Week 2: 6 REC 70 YDS 1 TD

Glenn Coffee - all around back looking like a starter for half the teams in his division, currently getting garbage time behind Frank Gore waiting for that injury.
Week 1: 1 ATT -3 YDS Week 2: 9 ATT 13YRDS

Bruce Johnson - crafty corner buried deep on the Giants depth chart, getting some time because of injuries, seems to be a play maker.
Week 1: 3 TKL 1 FF Week 2: 1 TKL 1 INT

Ben's Top 2 Sleepers:

Julian Edelman - the next Wes Welker, known from his outstanding portrayal as a college QB at Kent State.
Week 1: 0 REC 0 YDS Week 2: 8 REC 98 YDS

Sabby Piscitelli - the next John Lynch, can only be seen in the background of all opposing teams' passing play highlights.
Week 1: 8 TKL Week 2: 9 TKL 1 INT 1 PD

More to come on this battle of better player scouting later. Also fantasy league round up: my Northern Iowa Cornbreeders defeated Ben's Kyle Orton's Drinking Buddies 79-71. This week, well let's just say it isn't looking good for me and it's looking outstanding for Ben. Both teams at 1-1 and I still hate everything about fantasy football.

posted by: Jason

UPDATE: To add to this thrilling sleepers pick 'em we have added a sleeper team to each list. My team is the Jets, Ben's is the Ravens. Direct quote from me: "Hey I'm not that high on the Jets but I'm that low on the Ravens." So I took his little bet, bestrecord at the end of the season is the obvious winner.

Them Raiders

The Oakland Raiders are a contending team this year. Correction with the right quarterback the Raiders are contenders.


Let us start with the good, that would be the defense. Did you see that Monday night game against the Chargers? They were dominating. Richard Seymour, Greg Ellis, Trevor Scott, Tommy Kelly and rookie from Harvard Desmond Bryant and all a force when working together on that line. Kirk Morrison, Thomas Howard, and Ricky Brown are one of the top 5 linebacking cores in the league when healthy and are extremely athletic. Nnamdi Asomugha is the best corner in the game period, he takes away half the field because no one wants to throw on him and fail. Chris Johnson is a great, almost outstanding number two corner, hopefully he keeps it up. And at safety they are young and fast, they could develop with continued good line play.

Now with the bad on defense. That line is pretty old and the tackles are kind of unproven. Playing next to Ellis and Seymour will help, they just need to stay healthy. Same with the linebackers they can be undisciplined and need to stay in good health. The corners are great, but past the starters there is nothing. They are in dire need of a nickle corner and more. Also the safety's could suffer from inconsistent play and not improve. Actually depth is a slight issue all over the defense period.

The good parts on offense. This team is tailor made for Jamarcus Russell. The receivers are speed demons and only getting better. They have a top 5 tight end and an amazing, amazing running game. This offensive line is playing together and fits the needs of the team. All of which can be effective against any defense in the league. Hell they even have great special teams play. Now the bad parts of this offense. That offensive line can be inconsistent as well. This is an obvious theme with the whole team, including the young speedy receivers. I don't see Javon Walker coming back and he is the only experienced wideout on the roster. They should really sign a possession guy like Matt Jones, but honestly even a Bobby Wade would suffice and help their receiving corps. As good as the run game is you can't run if you are down in a game and then that can hurt the receivers. Also I have to point out that even though Zach Miller is a great tight end, he can't do any good being under or over thrown!

But the biggest enigma, the biggest (and I mean biggest) hit or miss of the entire team is Jamarcus Russell. Arm strength can only get you so far kid. You need to be accurate and smart and make good, quick reads. Watching him, he seems content with wear he is as a player. He needs to want more, want to get smarter and throw an accurate ball. Instead of a staying a big, dumb, cannon armed punk. He'll kill this team, this is a year where they can strike and I don't see him developing what so ever.

posted by: Jason

Dolphins Preview

Ohk so before you all get mad, this Dolphins preview is an uber early draft strategy. And it's about the 'Fins cause since out of the womb I've been a Gators and Dolphins fan, a Florida homer living in Ohio if you will. But a draft preview before the 'Fins undefeated preseason is even over is quite ridiculous so I'll try and justify it by commenting on their piss poor drafts for the last decade or so. The Dolphins haven't drafted well since picking Dan The Man. a few years ago they could have had a cornerstone on that defensive line with Amobi Okoye but they decided Ted Ginn was a better fit apparently. So let's go over the main needs: Wide receiver, defensive tackle, play making linebacker.

Let's say the Dolphins go 10-6 and are picking around the 20th spot. And while I'm at it let's say Cameron Wake comes in and kills it so that they have a future replacement for Jason Taylor/Joey Porter. Brandon Spikes at linebacker seems a good, sound pick but where they will be drafting and their more important needs will probably get the better of the head honchos. Not to mention another certain athletic linebacker from Florida they drafted isn't panning out as well as many would like. Also plenty of great to good 'backers are hitting free agency this spring, a quality or even stud signing is highly likely. Ndamukong Suh from Nebraska is a pretty killer defensive tackle, he's big, gets sacks and even has a pick and seems like he'd do just fine around this pick. It isn't sexy and he isn't Amobi, but it's solid and if he pans out worth it.

Now on to the second round and the lack of quality players starts to hit the draft. Letting Wes Welker go, and to the Pats no less, was one of the biggest mistakes the Dolphins have made. Regardless this young receiving group is somewhat talented, if you like slot wide outs. Greg Camirillo is a Wes Welker-lite and Devon Bess is another decent option. Ted Ginn can become a solid number two but needs help and here's to hoping Patrick Turner is good and gives them a possession guy. I think they'll have to wait instead of reaching for a wide out here. Maybe taking offensive line or maybe a good linebacker falls to them. If not here is why drafting Pat White was a horrendous mistake: Tim Tebow. He is more than likely to fall to the second round and trading up or watching him fall to them could happen. In fact it's still my hope that they trade Pat White and picks to some stupid team to move up and snag Tebow. Considering he's a born man and winner and a better QB prospect than White was. And that he is actually big enough to play say tight end or H-Back if need be. I still think he'll be a great quarterback and he's a hometown hero and they can still run the Wildcat with him! Ugh I hate the Dolphins drafts so much (Jason Allen really?).

Some other players to look for Dezmon Briscoe the wide out from Kentucky I previously mentioned. I like Jordan Shipley for some reason, but we've got enough slot wide outs. A running back isn't out of the question, as much as I love Ronnie Brown and am still on the Ricky Williams bandwagon they aren't the two most reliable guys. And Lex Hilliard is no more than a preseason hero, I really wish that Glenn Coffee had slipped to them. However Leon Washington is a nice player and a probable free agent. A good later round safety could be Florida's Major Wright, he's a ball hawk kind of guy. Other than that I hope for a great free agency and have to wait til college football starts again to evaluate players, then wait for the NFL season to debate our needs.

posted by: Jason

EXTRA: Check out this video of 'Fins rookie stud corner Sean Smith

The 2 Point Conversion

Ohk it has been way to long since this bitch has been updated on a consistent basis. Luckily football is starting up so we'll have something to talk about! Anyways here are two little, original articles that probably won't make sense or have any point to them. The first one is about cornerbacks in the NFL, more specifically the development of them. and the second is about these non-position players that are supposed to come in and redefine the game, players like Percy Harvin and Anthony Randolf. Please enjoy and don't hate.

The Cornerback Store

In what seems to be one of the hardest positions to scout and honestly one of the harder positions to play in football is the cornerback. They need to be fast, they need to have enough size to cover giant receivers, they need to be able to go up and get the ball, they need good hands and smarts and to be able to hit and tackle. Basically a football player that can do everything. They are ways to help them and that's with a good pass rush or good defense period and a scheme they can handle. But for the most part a great corner is great because of himself not the defense. Likewise a corner can be bad because of themselves and that's where their development comes in to play.

Drafting a corner comes on not only their stats but how they look and play in the game. Some guys don't test well or put up amazing numbers, but are shutdown corners. So we'll have some examples, before I get in to current players I'll use a rookie for a test subject. Kevin Barnes from Maryland now competing for that nickle corner job in Washington. He has the size at 6' runs a nice 4.4 forty time and has decent hands with his 6 picks as a two year starter at Maryland and over 9 breakups. Minor worries because of his injury his senior year and while there are good wideouts in the ACC and he had to go against Darius Heyward-Bey in practice, the ACC hasn't had the best quarterbacks in recent years. And as you can tell by this hit on Javid Best of Cal, he's a pretty good hitter. Anyways he looks good on the field, has the size and stats to back it up too. So come back at the end of the season and we'll see if he steps up in the pros.

Now if you have a young corner you have to give them 3 to 4 years to develop. In most cases here is how they will develop: Year 1 - The corner gets by on his physical attributes and works in to the rotation. sometimes has a breakout type year. Year 2 - Said corner takes time to learn the defensive scheme and learn offenses. Sometimes this limits them to playing safe and having not as good years, but they still show flashes. Years 3 and 4 - These are the make and break years, your corner either puts it all together and gets it or doesn't within these years.

Perfect examples for each year you ask? Dominic Rodgers-Cromartie is the perfect year one example, expect a minor drop off for him. Brandon McDonald is a great example at year two, year one he shut down Andre Johnson and played his way in to a starting role, next year he played it safe not to mention he was always on the field. These next two years will be intriguing for him, his ceiling is Charles Tillman but I think at worst he's an amazing nickel corner starting at the second corner spot. Years three and four, try Asante Samuel or Antonio Cromartie, both of which put it together and had breakout seasons with 10 picks each. Now both are considered top corners.

There are a few types of corners in the league that they can develop in to: Flashy corners who get picks and return them, take gambles but for the most part are above average number ones (Asante Samuel), Physical corners who get matched up with the big guys and lay wood usually are great number twos and pair well with the flashy guy on the other side (Charles Tillman), the All-Pro corner who just has it all so much so they don't throw to their side of the field (Nnamdi Asomugha) and then there are the Nickel corner just a guy who plays well in short bursts but isn't a starter (Fred Smoot) and finally just a starting corner doesn't tickle the fancy at all but is a player almost like filler (Phillip Buchanon).

So that was your very own, personal cornerback developmental rundown/breakdown. Now on to those heralded athletes without real positions and how they affect their teams.

The Do Everything Players

So every year there are players who come out and are just pure athletes, can do it all, except because of their size or their teams scheme they don't have a real position. But they usually are drafted high on what's called potential, which means they could possibly re-invent the game from whatever position they end up playing. This year in football it really seems to be Percy Harvin and in basketball next year everyone is chatting it up about Anthony Randolf.

Unfortunately many of these players end up on the bench or worst in the abyss. But can stay in the league because they're just freaks athletically and every other coach thinks they can be the one to help make that leap. There really is no science to their success or failure, just some do and some don't. Reggie Bush could have became Barry Sanders 2.0 and turned the league upside down and on some plays he does. But in reality he is a change of pace back and a damn good return man. Percy Harvin seems to be headed to that say place. I think finding these players in football is harder than basketball.

Every draft in basketball has at least one player go in the lottery that is that new must have 6'10 forward who can shoot the lights out and post you up. Earl Clark being the main example for this years draft. And right now that is basically what everyone wants, at one point it was tall 6'7 point guards. For all that LeBron James is, he is not changing his position. He is a fucking freak, but at 6'8 he is the normal size and has all the normal abilities of his position. But big men aren't supposed to rain three balls and post you up the next possession. So that makes Anthony Randolf an enigma. He seems to have gotten it together and we have no real comparison for him or what he can become. You can say Rashard Lewis but for all the money he makes he only averaged 19 points last year and is only a shooter now he won't post you up.

Basically for Anthony Randolf and Percy Harvin you have the potential, can you put it together and change the game? I see the flashes in each guy, but mainly what I ask of them is to get a position or a knack so they aren't labeled as projects or potential studs.

UPDATE

Please take a second to read this story from ESPN real quick.
Finished? Alright I'll let go that it is retarded as fuck that players are getting suspended because of traffic violations, but J.R. Smith gets 7 games for reckless driving (which is actually a minor offense) yet J-Rich only gets 2 games for drunk driving! That is outstanding bullshit and if I were Smith I'd appeal that in a heartbeat. It says because of his previous driving record he got the longer suspension and the only thing it mentions is an ACCIDENT, everyone has accidents! David Stern you are a complete asshole and are on your way out of the league after the looming lock out

posted by: Jason

Football Hits

Eli Manning: The 97 million dollar man. I want to write a big article on this on what the Giants options were and ultimately why they did it. But I can't, I like Eli, he isn't top-tier and not worth this much. He has the most value to the Giants, the only market for him is a shitty team signing him to a boatload of money to but people in the seats and even this is overpaying for them. This is wrong, however starting from scratch with a rookie or free agent quarterback is even worse.

A sleeper on the college football scene: Dezmon Briscoe, Kansas wideout. The kid has the size (6'3) and decent speed (4.6 40 yard dash). They showed a Kansas highlight reel on College Football Live and the only thing that I witnessed was Dezmon catching footballs. Had nearly 100 receptions last year for almost 1,500 yards and 15 touchdowns. Hopefully he ups the touchdowns and I think he is a sleeper pick for the draft either this year or next.

And one last little note, Tim Tebow will be a great NFL quarterback. I'm not saying the best, in fact I'm not even saying he will be an elite quarterback. I expect something like Matt Hasselbeck or Eli Manning from him.

posted by: Jason

Quick Hit

I am amazed at this story on ESPN.com that the Miami Heat are in talks to acquire both Lamar Odom and Carlos Boozer. Not only because it throws the Heat and, more importantly Dwyane Wade, closer to a championship again. But because it would be the quickest rebuilding process in a long time. To get two pretty much all stars and if they get Allen Iverson also then three. Yes they all have little issues with them: Iverson is quite old and his demeanor isn't the best, Lamar can be the same way not to mention he has been a lifetime underachiever and Boozer also has had his share of hits to his credibility (ex. re-signing with the Cavs) and has had several injuries lately. But to rebuild like this would be kind of like the Celtics did a few years ago and they all fit in and are needs for the team.

I would be minorly disappointed because I'd like Wade to resign with another team that I like a little better (although that Heat team would certainly become would of my favorite teams). Somewhere like Chicago as long as they get themselves something in the middle there to dominate other centers and power forwards. Regardless it is exciting to see quick fixes that seem like they will work out for the future as well as the now.

posted by: Jason

The Journey

I am going to embark on a little fact finding mission to figure out why the Cavs haven't won a title yet. Half of the work has been done with LeBron James being on the team and all. I am going to figure out if it is because they are searching to find James' Scottie Pippen and not a whole team or if the Carlos Boozer thing really did fuck us over that much or if it is due to poor drafts or what. My feeling is that it is a cocktail of all these problems and more. But Dwyane Wade already got his ring and rather suddenly. I don't count Chris Bosh and Carmelo Anthony in this debate because i feel they are not quite as good of players as LeBron or D-Wade.

posted by: Jason

/my Cavaliers Wish List Plan To Win A Title

So I have an inkling of an idea that Danny Ferry is fucking retarded and only wants to surround LeBron with veterans on the decline of their career. He could have built a nice young team around him and I won't even say it's his fault Carlos Boozer is a giant fucking tool who left us for no reason but money. Basically they are still fixable, this ship keeps getting harder and harder to put back together but they are fixable. The three things that I had hoped the Cavs would do or try to do that they didn't do so far are: Moving up in the draft and snagging Stephen Curry who LeBrownie seems to adore and is going to be a great pro, drafting a young athletic power forward like Alade Aminu who is still available, and signing Channing Frye a 14 PPG player who fits exactly what we were missing to guard Rashard Lewis in the Eastern Finals.

Alright they missed out on a few more golden chances, so be it. Here is the new to do list. We need fixed fast so the young player idea gets thrown out the door, somewhat. Also instead of getting washed up superstars (egos), I am looking to get in their prime, potential All-Star type players so this team can be kept together for the future. Step one is another legit offensive weapon. Stop looking for LeBron's Scottie Pippen, we need a team and on this team we need another offensive threat that is more than a just another shooter. Monta Ellis is pissed in Golden State, they drafted Stephen Curry, seem to still want Baron Davis back and have been on the downfall since that second round playoff run. So the game plan is to trade Mo Williams and Z for Monta and Corey Magettes' shitty contract and any other needed fixings (hopefully can snag Brandan Wright if we throw in some picks). I don't know how that poison pill thing Monta has works so if you Williams and Z is too much money to give them than give them whichever they want. But let's say they take both for my sake. Also giving up one of our young power forwards or newly drafted 2 guards doesn't bother me. Monta becomes another great scorer for us who is more than just a shooter and playing point guard for this team is much easier considering you have James to give it to. And even Corey Magette would become a great bench player for us cause he is a scoring punch off the bench who can sub in for long periods of time considering he has been an efficient starter in this league. At the worst he is an expiring contract in a couple years.

Next is my problem with Delonte West. If they have to keep him, that is actually fine. He plays pretty damn well for the team and is still cheap. However in my desire to still get younger and even cheaper and most of all better, I would take a look a Courtney Lee. He was just traded to the Nets who just drafted Terrence Williams and also have Chris Douglas-Roberts. That is a very young back court considering Devin Williams started for his first full season last year. Getting some experience and defensive prowless like Delonte has may be intriguing. So trade Delonte and maybe a young power forward or one of the guards we drafted and the other pic we have for him. If they want Boobie instead of Delonte than make the trade anyways. Courtney Lee seems to me like a Rip Hamilton like player, he shoots well, can drive the lane, is fearless (got knocked out by Dwight, kept going at LeBron on fast breaks and showed him up after the first block from behind) and has good size. The best part is he still is a great defender, on a rookie contract and a second year pro!

This last part is probably the key part and the most/least likely. The problem isn't convincing Al Jefferson to come to Cleveland and win a championship, the problem is signing him and LeBron in the same offseason or making a complex sign and trade deal. Basically our center and power forward position has been old and/or lackluster for all of LeBron's time here. I think Shaq will help a bit this year, but he is not a long time solution. So next year let's sign the best young, low post scorer in the league. He also rebounds well and seems like his defense could come around and if not his girth alone creates problems for Dwight and Kendrick Perkins and all those centers.

Last thing to do is fill out the roster with at least one young athletic power forward (Alade Aminu, Brandan Wright, maybe even Channing Frye is still attainable) and a young either athletic or defensive or shooting small forward (Patrick Ewing Jr., Mikeal Gelable, Linas Kleinza) to give LeBron a breather every once in awhile and in case Magette goes south. So the line up in 2010 becomes Monta Ellis, Courtney Lee, LeBron James, Anderson Varjeo, Al Jefferson. That is a championship team as long as they get that decent bench of role players too. Basically it also sets up up for a decent run and the weakest spot, power forward, could either see Andy or one of the younger players develop and if not it is a decent offensive/defensive rotation with him and another athletic player. Not to mention the best part of this plan is that if we only get Monta or only are able to sign Jefferson instead of getting both, it is an immediate upgrade and only helps our future situation. Also, Danny, please go after Jefferson in 2010. He is a legit post scoring center and will be cheaper than Chris Bosh. The likelihood of finding a center of his talent is way less than finding another athletic power forward.

posted by: Jason

So the NBA Draft...

Haha, well I am somewhat sorry. I will tell you that there seems to be no winners and that the Cavs were the biggest losers by drafting the same exact shitty player twice, at a position they don't even need. So the draft couldn't get me to write another post, the start of free agency couldn't either but Toronto stealing Hedo from the Blazers does? Of course it does because it positions them for a nice little run in to the second round of the playoffs. And who knows maybe Andrea Bargnani thrives under center this year and starts grabing more rebounds while Jose Calderon keeps reminds us why he gave TJ Ford the boot a few years ago (I know that isn't the hardest thing to do) and Chris Bosh starts playing like a superstar, and DeMarr DeRozen is as good as he seems like he will be and most of all Hedo keeps up his pretty damn good stats like the past two seasons. Do you realize that their starting backcourt's average height is 6'10 1/2. They'll need to play a certain type of ball but it will be something that this current Cavs team won't be able to beat if you still consider them the best of the East. They still need to fill out the rest of the bench and two almost perfect players for this team are still available: Dahntay Jones and Linas Kleiza. Linas is a great scoring package off the bench who can sub in for three positions and play in that line-up for an extended period of time if needed. Not many people are interested in Dahntay after his little incident guarding Kobe however, he is still a great defender and a great stop-gap until DeRozen is ready, and the defense on this team is quite sub par so he will be needed. Then all they need is a decent big man just in case. Aaron Gray would be a good pickup but what they really could use is a little more girth and strength than any more finesse.

Also why didn't the Cavs go after Channing Frye hard? He is exactly what they need a perimeter guarding power forward with plenty of length not to mention he has scored 30 points in this league and averages 15 PPG despite being exiled in Portland the past couple seasons. He could actually start for them!

posted by: Jason

Three Real Quick Hits

First off can I say that I am enticed about the movie More Than A Game, otherwise known as the LeBron James high school years story. It looks like it is done well and that it includes the other players from that team. Good job whoever directed it.

Secondly Lamar wants to be a Laker again and wants Ariza back too. Well good for you Lamar, but wouldn't the Lakers be better off stealing Hedo away from the Magic? They'd get a starting small forward that can help Pau and Kobe consistently and also handle the ball well because of how crappy their point guards are. I mean paying Hedo $10 million is a lot but it is roughly the same price as Lamar and Ariza with the same talent if not better. Might not be able to be as flexible of a team but they really wouldn't have to flex for anyone with that lineup.

Finally why is Monta Ellis apparently available. Ever since losing to the Jazz after thumping Dallas a few years back in the playoffs the Warriors have been in utter disarray. It's saddening, they became my favorite team over night then vanished just as quickly. I still like Monta, I doubt he is a point guard but either way he is a great player.

posted by: Jason

Larry Hughes-isms, Lamar the Great and Some MMA words

Everyone by now knows the Chuck Norris facts and the carbon copy, but still just as good, Tim Tebow facts I linked to last post. Well I am starting a new (well new to all of you folks) set with Larry Hughes-isms. The only difference is that all of these are bad because Larry Hughes is, well, bad. These were started way back when Larry was still a Cavalier. He got about two years before we threw the book at him and just gave up on him and his teardrops (the crappy shot he tried and the tattoos). Anyways the main running joke is that no matter what Larry Hughes loses by two. Larry Hughes lost a three point shooting contest to Boobie by two points. Larry Hughes lost to Drew Gooden's duckbill haircut by two in a pick up game. You cannot beat Larry Hughes he can only lose to you, by two. Larry Hughes once got a steal on the final possession of a game while up by 14, then lost by two anyways. Anyways I plan on putting some more up and will take any suggestions.

Would Lamar Odom be a good fit for the Cavs? Before laughing it off, give some thought to it, especially considering in Ben Wallace retires. Gives us athleticism and could teach a younger player, if we draft say Alade Aminu, Lamar could be an influence or mentor. But do you really want a potential starter learning from Lamar Odom, the franchise player who shows up every other week? It is a possibility though, letting Andy and Sasha and Big Ben go then signing Lamar to a reasonable deal and maybe we can pull a trade of JJ Hickson or Darnell Jackson for Brandan Wright. He was a high 1st round draft pick, has gobs of potential, seems to be out of favor in Oakland and having two young athletic big forwards isn't a bad time if they draft Aminu as well.

Is Udonis Haslem a good idea for the Orlando Magic? Tony Battie, I'll wait until you are done laughing, is actually a serviceable and reliable backup F/C, again waiting for your laughter. But he is close to the end and may retire. Marcin Gortat has been picking up steam a lot in the playoffs and is apparently on the Knick's radar and I wouldn't be surprised if other teams (like the Cavs) are looking heavily in to him as well. I would bet money on him being long gone next year. So that leaves them with nothing other than Howard and Lewis back there. With no picks coming this year so no way to draft a young big guy or point guard, which they should do to replace Alston. And drafting a young big man seems like a bad idea, I would assume they want someone who knows what he is doing a veteran like Haslem. He can hit shots play decent defense he has been there and won before, he is getting a little old and has some health problems now. But a sign and trade of Gortat to the Heat seems like a good plan for both sides. The Magic are most likely losing Marcin regardless and the Heat need to get younger, cheaper and bigger. One knock is that Haslem may not be able to play back up center to give Dwight some rest. They would have to go small or still get another serviceable center.

I love MMA, but more than the UFC, I love the WEC. All of the fighters seem to be more in it for the fighting than the fame or money. And with this past match up between Urijah Faber and Mike Brown being called the fight of the year, I am slightly disappointed. First and foremost Faber is my favorite fighter. I usually hate cocky guys but when you watch him fight you see where he gets it from and it is kind of funny hearing him talk about the parties after the fight. I will give Mike Brown the first fight, Faber came out too cocky anyways and didn't gameplan well. But this second time you could tell it would have most likely been either a solid win by Faber or at least an all time classic fight between them, until Faber broke his hand and injured his other therefore taking his punches away from him. Mike Brown had a pretty bad fight all around, not mixing up strikes and couldn't capitalize when he took down Faber or even after Faber broke his hand. In fact Mike Brown's "strategy" of ground him and do nothing, was so bad the Faber almost pulled out the win with the broken hand. After taking Urijah down in the last round, Faber flipped around and got Brown in a deep modified choke but couldn't hold on with his broken hand and had to let go. Basically I do not think this counts as a victory for Mike Brown. I thought it was a draw at best and Faber could not punch for 3 and a half rounds. Let's say Brown had broken his hand instead, he would not have been able to accomplish anything in that fight. In fact I don't think Mike Brown could have beaten a chump with a broken right hand let alone go three more rounds with Urijah and still be considered for fight of the year. Good job Faber, it's a shame what happened. Take a couple more little fights work on your game, then come back and hopefully that punk still has the belt so you can earn it right back.

posted by: Jason

The Tim Tebow Theory

Tim Tebow is so amazing that I have my own theory that uses him as an example that he hasn't proven, yet. The theory goes as follows: If a player is great in college, a proven winner, has at least one championship and player of the year award and maybe a record or two. And has that little hustle and leader mentality, then said player will do at the worst, good at the pro level. Even if they have psychical limitations such as lack of height, or little athleticism. So when Tebow gets drafted and plays for a team he will prove this theory for me.

Another player that this theory applies to is Tyler Hansbourgh. I have said multiple times that I believe he will be a great player and should be drafted by the Cavs, and I still do think he will be great. However with the recent beating given to Cleveland by Orlando and their unorthodox team style and this transition in the NBA to smaller line-ups and more athletic forwards and centers, I know think they should go after a player with that sort of upside. The main problem with this is that these types of players take some years to develop and are very hit or miss, remember Darius Miles was allegedly going to be the next Kevin Garnett according to the Sports Guy Bill Simmons.

Rashard Lewis took several years to become the killer x-factor that he has been this year. Josh Smith is another one who took awhile and actually still is developing in to a great player. In fact a year or two ago I was hoping the Cavs would realize their faults at the power forward spot and make an offer to him, but then the Hawks resigned him and he made a nice little leap in to a potential star player. For the record I love Kevin Durant. I love what he does at the small forward spot, but if he were to put on some pounds and play some defense like he plays offense then he could be the epitome of the athletic power forward. I find that these players a lot of times start off as tall small forwards then develop a bit on the defensive end and get some more weight and strength to them and then they switch to the power forward spot. At least this seems to be what Lewis and Smith did and they are my main examples.

So in looking at the draft finding player that not only fit that bill, but what players will have the least possible amount of bust potential, limits the choices available in a draft filled with nothing but point guards and 'tweener forwards. The bust potential in basketball seems to be about twice as high in football. Mainly because the players need to be good at everything, you can only have 12 players there's hardly room to develop anyone or have specialist on the team. In football you can draft a long snapper, now nothing against football it's a completely different sport, but being a GM there is a heck of a lot easier. I happen to take a little bit of pride in finding relatively unknown players that become good players (I don't know why I just enjoy knowing about a star player before everyone else). My big sleeper pick from the NFL Draft this year was cornerback Kevin Barnes from Maryland who was drafted in the third round I believe by the Redskins. He will most likely be their nickle corner by the end of the year and the only reason he was unknown was because he suffered an injury.

Anyways let us move on to the few prospects left on my list. Most of the 'tweeners this year are around 6'8 or 6'7 and this is just too small to be in the mold of my athletic power forward. I'm not saying these guys like James Johnson and Sam Young will be bad, just not what I am looking for. So let's get to the main two guys: Austin Daye and Earl Clark. Both seem to be bursting at the seems with potential and ability but for some reason neither player has put it together completely. Austin Daye is very lanky and skinny like Durant, I almost feel like he has to be a small forward cause he won't be able to bulk up. Reminds me a bit of Corey Brewer and while I bring up his name, shouldn't he be due for a breakout season? Yes he is on a piss poor team but he was the main conduit for those championship Florida teams. Hopefully he bulked up a little bit and worked on his offensive game (dribbling and shooting) and then next year will stick to his style of play (lock down defense, creating for other players) and become a solid player. He is still a favorite player of mine and I hope he makes the strides to becoming at least a good, if not great player. On a side note about Brewer he is too short to be that power forward I am looking for and also, Ben was in his hometown of Portland, TN and said it was a dump. Earl Clark seems like he would be that perfect size and weight and has all the ability but much like Josh Smith it remains to be seen if he can put it all together. If he grows up and studies and works on his game than sure, he can become that player I am talking about. But I would have to put the high risk tag on him, I think he is the biggest potential bust of these 'tweeners. Much like say Brandan Wright a few years back, who I'm not completely giving up on but he needs major improvement soon.

So who you may be asking is this amazing fantasy player of mine? Well remember Anthony Randolph last year and how he seems like he could be poised to be the next KG of sorts or at least the next Rashard Lewis. Well this year there is a player by the name of Alade Aminu who played on a mediocre Georgia Tech team with another player that was basically the same as him. So he has gone relatively unknown because of those two mishaps. Now I didn't watch much college basketball this year, but from everything I read about this guy he went from producing a lot more than his final stats to getting a reduced role because of the limited offense and coaching he received. He averaged something like 11 points 8 rebounds 2 blocks and a steal a game coming off the bench and in a terrible system. Even so he was ranked 7th in the ACC in rebounds and 4th in blocks. His steals blocks and rebounds suggest he can defend and even get better. My main tick is his only 1 assist per game, that means he's not seeing the floor well and at 6'10 he should be seeing it pretty well. He was a track star so he is very athletic and started his own foundation called the Brotherhood of the World. His main knocks are that he may not be all that strong right now and doesn't have the best defensive presence or basketball IQ which causes him to try and do more than he should at times. Both of which are coachable and very fixable. Basically he is 6-10 or taller with a 7-3 wingspan and can run the floor and score in the post and with the ball on the floor and shooting. Common thinking would be that he can improve all his weaknesses and even his strengths with the right coaching and doesn't seem to have that bust potential with a mostly ready NBA body and abilities that will translate to the league right away. Yet he is still projected as a mid to late second rounder. So hopefully Cleveland will take a look and draft him to get some more athleticism and another potential not just starter, but a potential star.

Just realized that his brother Al-Farouq Aminu was his brother. I was almost thinking they were the same person. But that would be a pretty spectacular duo at both forward spots for a team. Especially in Al-Farouq develops his offensive game with a some consistent jump shooting and grows a few more inches. He already seems a little better defensively than his brother. I wonder why they didn't go to the same college like the Lopez and Griffin brothers...

By the way I have no clue who will win the Finals this year. I'm hoping it will be the Magic because they beat the Cavs and because they were my pick for "team that is doing good but people under appreciate and think are overachieving but will actually go far in the playoffs." Also note that my pick in the West for that team was not the Blazers or the Rockets, but the Nuggets, so I was 2 for 2 on those picks. The most I can hope for is another good series like the Celtics/Bulls series and not just another mediocre series with a good game or two.

UPDATE: Since I mentioned Tim Tebow and Florida Gators in this post I thought it would be an opportune time to show this article from Yahoo Sport's college football blog. Yes Florida is a hot bed for speedsters. No I do not believe any of those times can be legit, except Jeffery Demps who qualified for the Olympics and his 100 meter dash is converted in to something like a 3.66 second 40 yard dash.

posted by: Jason

Our Vehicles Are Now Owned By The Government

This may seem a weird intro into a sports blog but it is in part about the economic problems and the players being affected from it. The NBA wonders how to fix this problem while it's very own teams are giving at best bench players like Wally $13 million. That is where you went wrong, no it is not General Motors or the government's fault. If you would pay players accordingly, you would be much better off.

I find it hard to feel bad for most athletes because they are all living the dream and most especially LeBron because he's got it all. However in this one case I can feel bad for him. All of the media outlets are trashing him for walking directly off the court and not congratulating any of the Magic players. I have to ask if you were considered the best player on the best team in the league and lost in the Conference Finals to a team everyone thought was an overachiever, would you stay and give them hugs? Because I know I would fucking walk off the court cursing and throwing things and get home as soon as possible.

Writing on how to fix the team that won the most games this year is a weird subject, but because it's my hometown Cavs, I have written about it the past three posts or so it seems. So this time I will take a different approach. What if Danny Ferry (and he more than likely will) stands pat and sticks with this overpaid, under-talented team thinking that they will improve in next years playoffs, but they don't make the Finals again? LeBron is now a free agent and free to sign anywhere, even though there is a few select cities he would consider signing with. I believe he will stand here if the Cleveland brass shows him that they are competent and can get an offensive coach and a roster that is actually good.

I have two probable destinations for him: the Knicks or the Nets. Both are, or at least could be, much better situations for him. Let's start with the Knicks because that is everyone else's pick for him to run off to. They have the coach and some proven players, plus the big market and the ability to get even more talent. Any team trying to court James has to not only have talented players, but players he likes would help out in so many ways. One player James obviously likes is Stephen Curry and he is almost a lock to get drafted by the Knicks. The Knicks are a little stacked at small forward with Danilo Gallinari and Wilson Chandler and they are real weak at the bigs and shooting guard position. So what the Knicks would have to do is try to trade for Amare Stoudmire (because of the D'antoni relationship) or Chris Bosh. And if that isn't possible trades for quality bench players or a two guard or a center are all possibilities. Then when free agency starts signing LeBron with either Bosh/Stoudmire and/or Dwyane Wade and draft a center or two guard and hope that they all click together. This possibility seems like it is too uncertain for LeBron to just jump ship in to. Although if they get another superstar like Wade, Bosh or Amare I wouldn't bet against it.

Now the Nets are actually the best destination for him. They're owned in part by James' best bud: Jay-Z and they have pieces in place already. With Devin Harris and Brooke Lopez and the draft picks coming this team is in a good position to add James. Getting rid of Yi and Vince Carter would be good ideas if at all possible anymore. But with Chris Douglas-Roberts as a sixth man and the other young players they will add, this rotation could be a force for a few years to come and would only get better. Will the King be willing to possibly wait a few more years to be completely ready for a title though is the main question.

I really hate to add to the hype of LeBron skipping town, because I don't think he will. But I couldn't blame him if he did and in fact I'll be surprised if he doesn't get a little more vocal about what he wants for changes here in Cleveland. He knows Mike Brown is stupid and that this roster has maxed out. So now I'd like to see if he is willing to take a little extra flack for speaking up about a pretty poorly run team or if he keeps to his perfect answers that don't harm his rep in anyway.

posted by: Jason

We Are All Witnesses To Horrible Team Play

Sorry LeBron all those dreams and hopes of championships were dashed in a myriad of match-up problems, bad coaching, bad officiating all over and horrible play from team mates. Now I know that the series isn't over and am still an advocate that it will now go seven games, cause if one player can carry a team from a 3-1 defect, it is LeBron James.

In trying to figure out the reason for this sudden collapse, there seems to be no one real answer just a bunch of bad scenarios adding up. Mike Brown is, and always was, a horrible head coach. As a defensive coordinator he would be ideal, but his substitutions and "plays" are all from the mind of a high school basketball team that loses games. Joe Smith needs more floor time covering Rashard Lewis, Delonte should be on Courtney Lee and James on Hedo. Do not double and triple Dwight every time he touches the ball! Stay on your man, every once in awhile have a man step out and double, but make Howard beat you himself without these extra freebie 3 pointers. Wally has seen far to much floor time as has Sasha who is still way too streaky night to night. The small line-up works well in short bursts, but have the big men rotate more often to keep them fresh. We all realize that Wallace is a horrible offensive option but he is the best defender on Howard and if you sub in Joe Smith with him then you get another decent to good offensive look. Also Mike Brown needs to grow a sack and set in and tell James no when he starts to take over the fourth quarter. Every game this series he has taken seemingly every shot in the fourth, while wasting as much clock as possible. I realize that your team isn't that good, but they aren't even getting shot attempts in the fourth! That is a horrendous stat. Also, what happened to that "team comradery?"

If the Cavs win this series and then win the finals nothing will be changed by Danny Ferry, which will turn out to be a mistake. If we lose I know he will try to blow it up and get whatever he can to please LeBron. Now I have had quite a few posts on what the Cavs should do so this one will be shorter and sweeter. Rip Hamilton is an unlikely possibility to get. The next best thing would have to be Iggy, and he is more attainable than one may think. Currently he plays the small forward spot and currently Andre Miller is a free agent seriously thinking about Portland this offseason. So what does it all mean? Trade Mo Williams and Delonte West to them for Iggy that way they get a starting one and two guard, considering Delonte would surely beat out Willie Green. Now they still have Lou Williams and Elton Brad is coming back so they can slide Thaddeus Young in to a more natural spot at the three and have a flexible line-up where they can go big and small. What we get is a legit proven scorer who needs a main man to take pressure off him and can create his own shot and for others. Not to mention he is young and a damn good defender. Two minor problems, would Philly really want to trade their star player and the Cavs lose both potential starting point guards. Well remember when the Celtics threw Rondo in to the starting line-up? The Cavs could easily do this with Daniel Gibson. Now I really wanted to see improvements in his play this year, but he seems to have gotten worse. Acquiring Mo and Being injured most of the year seem to me to be the main problems. I think give him the starting job and he will flourish and develop and if he doesn't then the draft and free agency are always available. Regardless Cleveland's "offense" doesn't run through the point anyways it runs through James and Iggy would also be able to help out in running the show.

Free agency has several hidden gems, that would help this new team. Re-signing Andy for cheap would be great and getting Z to use his ETO and also take less money would be amazing. If not I would not be afraid to put him and Ben Wallace on the block and at the least shed those salaries. If Andy doesn't re-sign so power forward/center free agents possibilities would be Leon Powe, Brandon Bass, Chris Wilcox, Marcin Gortat and possibly even Rasheed Wallace (which would be weird and may actually kill the team so I pray he stays a Piston). Don't like the idea of Boobie running the show, well if we give Mo to Philly they have no reason to re-sign Andre Miller who would be a pretty good veteran to get back in Cleveland. Or there is always Raymond Felton that we could take a chance on but he may get a bigger than expected payday from the Bobcats so I don't see that happening. A back up swing man for James that isn't named Wally would help. Marvin Williams would likely get a good payday from the Hawks, Josh Childress may be a better idea anyways, if he decides to come back. My favorite idea is still Joey Graham and trading Sasha for him is still a good idea, it would give us extra cap room or at least take us down from being in the luxury tax. Linas Klezia is another possible hidden gem that no one seems to notice.

The draft is where we could actually hit big, or not hit at all because Danny Ferry's track record is a sad, sad sight. Would really love Stephen Curry as our young developing point guard, even over Boobie, and if somehow we can trade up I would in a second. I would get players James like this year, while creating a good all around team too, and Curry is a player James likes. We would have to take either a center, power forward or point guard in case Boobie does not work out with our first pick. There are no centers worth the pick and a player that should be around that I'd really like to have is Tyler Hansbrough. Why would a team not want a proven winner, who has done a lot with a little in terms of athleticism, has a good size and hustles always on the court? He could become a starter, I won't say he will be a star, but he'll get his points cause of a nice developing jump shot and his defense will be good because he hustles. Playing with James and now Iggy will help him get open looks and he can rebound and is a smart player who will learn anything he needs quickly. With the second pick just go to trade it or look for size in a center that can learn under Z hopefully, or be a piece in a trade.

Other than that I'm sure that with the great amount of point guards in this year's draft that some will slip to free agency. Find them, sign them, develop them. Go for producers in college, like Scottie Reynolds and Dominic James who are being help back by scouts because of size and other such trivial things. Trades of Ben Wallace and potentially Z will have to happen because of how bad they hurt the team overall. Hopefully a serviceable big man can be had in return, if not Ben Wallace needs to be dumped for salary cap reasons. Maybe Chris Bosh can be had with his contract and that little switcheroo of Sasha and Joey Graham. Some current free agents like Patrick Ewing Jr, Chris Richard, Mike Sweetney and Austin Croshere are all better twelve men than Lorenzen Wright.

posted by: Jason

Don't Hurt Mo

picture from espn.com

Mo Williams has been, lackluster this postseason. Seems to be proving that it took a few injuries to other players for him to make the all-star team a little more correct. It's obvious, really, what he's doing wrong now and what he was doing right in the regular season. I see him come down the floor. look for LeBron, if James says no then he seems to just rush to the hoop or chuck up something awful or make an errant pass, the list goes on. The main thing is that he knows it is playoff time and because of that he's rushing, trying to make six points on one possession.

It's not all his fault though, when you give some thought to it. James also knows it's the playoffs and so he seems to have devolved back to his older, ball hogging-self. Which is in part to team mates performing horribly, and that's another thing throwing Mo off. He is used to dishing to Delonte and Z and seeing them make open jumpers, none of that is happening with any regularity this series. Also this is Mo's first time this deep in the playoffs, he's not used to it and he has never seen another team play this hard, like the Magic are currently doing.

One would have to think or hope that because he's going through his trials and tribulations now, he will be improved when we advance and in next years playoffs. That's a very good possibility, we have all seen Boobie go from a bench warmer to a clutch three-point assassin in just one series. So maybe this getting beat up causing him to guarantee a win will cause him to get it right and stick to his game (and hopefully fix this hitch in his shooting). But if not then he does have next year to prove himself again, because his contract keeps him here for at least one more year. But say he doesn't work out again, that is when trades become possibilities. Realistically though, trading anyone to keep LeBron could happen next year. Everyone should give him this learning experience and realize he can only improve or be traded. If there is a scapegoat needed, look at Delonte and his just as horrible play, compared to JR Smith's stepped up play. Then realize that he was a possibility to pick up, even a year ago for cheap.

Two links to leave you with: Ball Don't Lie is Yahoo Sports basketball blog and is actually very entertaining. Remember that commercial where LeBron dreams he's a star football player? Me too so read this somewhat biased ESPN article on that exact possibility.

posted by: Jason

Trade Magic

Let's say Toronto is ready to trade Bosh next year. Why wouldn't the Nuggets go all out and trade K-Mart and a 1st and even a 2nd rounder for him? He would fit in perfectly for them, keeping them athletic, fast and giving them another legit scoring threat. Their defense would be pretty mediocre but their offense would be putting up like 130 a night easily. Also Bosh is better off defending the big men like Duncan in the west than Martin is anymore. And he can be the finesse to Nene's power.
Why would Toronto do this trade? Well they get back a proven veteran starter at the same position and they get extra picks to rebuild around the young core of Calderon and Bargnani. It's a very possible trade as long as the Raptors realize Bosh is out after this year, especially because next years draft has to be a lot better than this years so those picks have more meaning.
Now why should Bosh stay in Denver? He can team up with the other other guy from the 2003 draft. All everyone talks about is LeBron and Wade and you and I and everyone knows it. But this team wins a lot of games and would click quickly with Billups running the group and they get more mentally stable without Martin. This is a legit championship team for years to come as long as they get a young back-up point guard soon to learn under Horse-Teeth Billups.
It's just a thought but if I were the Nuggets GM, multiple calls would be made to Toronto directly after the season.

posted by: Jason

Minor Notes On The Eastern Conference Finals

Mickael Pietrus is slowly becoming the new James Posey and seems to be relishing in this new role, being hated by every opposing teams' fans.

Dwight Howard's one "post move" where he lowers his head and just elbows and shoulders everyone out of his way is completely and utterly ridiculous. As in illegal and should get the whistle blown every time he does it, but the NBA loves him to much to do that. Which brings me to the next point...

Should the Orlando Magic and Dwight Howard get the dirty team/player tags? Because they are not playing very nice and their whole "Fuck the Cavs, I'm Dwight/Hedo/Skip To My Lou/Mickael/Courtney" attitude is very unearned. Congrats you beat a down and out Boston team in seven games that the Cavs would have beat in four. They are playing a form of team ball that includes players getting theirs which is not really a good thing. Rashard is the only one that seems to be about the team, it was better when Jameer was running the point.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, the Cavs are not a good team. Being deep with a bunch of sixth men and role players isn't the same as having a big three or even a big two. Delonte is proving my point that he is horrible and Z is proving another of my points that he is too old to play against Howard, not to mention he is missing his shots. We are playing two players a total of 27 mil to sit on the bench! Also Mo Williams seems to be proving my point that having a playoff veteran like Rip Hamilton or a clutch scorer and defender like Iggy would be a better option for the Cavs.

As off right now the Cavs and the Lakers are the two worse teams remaining. Both Denver and Orlando are more talented all around and deeper teams.

What happened to Boobie? I know he was hurting about his foot, but I think he is also hurting about Mo Williams. Because maybe he thought he could win the starting job or now he's sad cause he is no longer LeBron's butt buddy. This needs to change he was always clutch. Even though he's a one trick pony, he knows a good trick and that's making threes rain.

The Cavs are making the match-up problems they already had even worse. LeBron's too busy trying to be a free safety to cover Alston and Delonte can not cover Hedo. Not to mention Z is awful against Dwight, Andy's style of play tends to get him in foul trouble against him and he is too slow to cover Rashard. Ben Wallace knows what to do but then again on offense he's retarded.

Stan Van Gundy is a mess, unfortunately Mike Brown is, and always has been, an even bigger mess. He can't coach a team he can ask them to do things that they may or may not do.

Having said all this I still believe the Cavs will show up and finish off the Magic with three straight wins. It's just a matter of pride and we've been there before, even though it was a fluke.

posted by: Jason