Dallas Mavericks… A 2006 Remix?
Just after the Dallas Mavericks stole all but one of the Washington Wizards' good players via trade, I commented that they were a massive chance to go to the Western Conference Finals this year. Let's take a look at their record since "the trade" and see if my statement holds any weight at all...
Feb 16th saw Caron Butler welcome himself to his new team with a commanding but poultry 4-16 shooting night, Erick Dampier still garnered over 30 minutes of playing time and the Mavs shot just over 32% on the road against the red hot Thunder. Result? A thirteen point loss and the excuse of "new-look Mavs" the only thing left to keep spirits up heading into their next game.
From then, the past seven games to finish off February have been a blue and white blur of pure awesome as the Mavericks have accepted the challenge and built an undefeated run with the following scalps, (in order);
- Phoenix
- @ Orlando
- Miami
- Indiana
- Los Angeles Lakers
- @ Atlanta (OT)
- New Orleans
The Mavericks face another tough test tonight against the always home strong Bobcats, but if they get past Charlotte the run could quite feasibly stretch beyond 14 the way they are playing.
Let's take a look at their upcoming schedule:
- @ Charlotte
- Minnesota
- Sacramento
- @ Chicago
- @Minnesota
- New Jersey
- New York
- Chicago
- Boston
- @New Orleans
That's eight out of the next 10 games being extremely winnable for Dallas the way I see it. Even Boston aren't looking too great at the moment. Imagine if they were to win all ten? ESPN will be going crazy and I will be nodding my head and pointing to my other blog entry. They seem to be in a great groove since the acquisitions and playing some really exciting Basketball. I think Brendan Haywood, DeShawn Stevenson and Jason Kidd have looked the most improved.
Is Jason Kidd finally marching toward a Championship ring?
I ask again, could this finally be the "right stuff" for the Mavericks?
The Dallas crowd booed Dwyane Wade during the All-Star Game last month and for good reason. He was once again laying down the Basketball smack in the Big D. These fans should be respected not ridiculed for not letting that kind of thing slide, and yes even in an All Star Game! It seems like forever ago now but it's only 4 and a half years since either Wade took over or Dallas choked in the 2006 NBA Finals... Whichever way you look at it.
Although I've never been a big fan of the Mavericks, I must say that trade definitely pricked my ears up. I was quite comfortable in stating what I believe to be the obvious...
The Lakers' supposed "free run" to the 2010 NBA Finals has just been erased. They're definitely going to have to earn it now.
I'm excited.
Cowboy Caviar…
Strap yourself in people! The NBA's Western Conference is about to get a makeover at the top end. ESPN reports that the Dallas Mavericks and Washington Wizards are seriously discussing a trade that will send both Caron Butler AND Brendan Haywood to Dallas. If this move is made, I'm immediately declaring the Mavericks as Western Conference Finalists.
Quote from ESPN: "Sources told ESPN.com that the teams' negotiations only turned more serious Friday on a deal that would send Josh Howard, Drew Gooden and some smaller cap-friendly contracts to Washington for Butler, Haywood and Stevenson."
Dallas already has a very talented lineup and the addition of Haywood and Butler would certainly push them up to a very close second seed in the West. I still give the Lakers the edge at this stage, but to be honest, it's only due to chemistry.
Brendan Haywood is a good player, he's no superstar. Caron Butler has been better but has been fairly pedestrian of late. I think playing alongside Jason Kidd, Shawn Marion, Jason Terry and that guy named Dirk however would certainly bring out some magical play.
Will Butler and Haywood be the final pieces to the Dallas puzzle?
Let's assume Dirk get's doubled, you have Butler slashing to the hoop, Terry setting his feet for three, Haywood hitting the front of the rim and Marion swooping in for the crumbs. Now let's look at the fast break, Jason Kidd handling the ball, Marion filling one lane, Butler filling the other with Terry in the corner for three and Dirk trailing down the lane.
The Dallas Mavericks are currently hosting the biggest NBA Basketball party in NBA history at Cowboys Stadium. Could it be possible that they're four days away from finally creating the Monster that enables them to host the most meaningful NBA party of all...
...the Championship parade.
Tuesday Predictions…
There's 9 games on the books today in the NBA and I'm in the mood for some predictions. So here's my take on the games for November 3rd. Now you might raise your eyebrows at a couple of my suggestions, but I'll explain my reasons as we go.
Washington @ Cleveland: There's a big rivalry between these two teams and this game will be no exception. The Wiz are on their way upwards while the Cavs are finding their feet. Prediction: Cavs by 4. Result: Cavs by 12.
Denver @ Indiana: These two teams played each other in China during the pre-season. I think if Indiana get to within 10 points, they can consider it a win. Prediction: Nuggets by 14. Result: Nuggets by 18.
Boston @ Philadelphia: The Celtics aren't going to lose this... there is no way. Philly have some nice emerging talent but the Celtics are WAY too deep and will win easily. Prediction: Celtics by 18. (Side bet: Rondo to have a triple double by 3/4 time to celebrate his contract heist!) Result: Celtics by 31.
This is Rajon showing you how many millions he's going to be earning per year from now on. Also, how many points, rebounds and assists he's likely to get tonight.
Orlando @ Detroit: The Pistons have had an indifferent start and the Orlando Magic are trying to look as deep as Boston. They're not doing a bad job thanks to Ryan Anderson and JJ Redick. I think Ben Gordon will be the only thing that keeps this close for three quarters. Prediction: Orlando by 14. Result: Pistons by 5.
Phoenix @ Miami: A hard one to pick in my opinion. Both teams have a perfect 3-0 record and I really wouldn't have said either of them would be 4-0 to start the season. One of these teams has to be however and I'll have to go for the Heat but only because they are at home. Prediction: Miami by 3. Result: Suns by 8.
Milwaukee @ Chicago: United Center. Where Derrick Rose will happen. Prediction: Bulls by 10. Result: Bulls by 2.
The Bulls need a BIG night from Derrick Rose tonight...
LA Lakers @ Oklahoma City: The Thunder do look exciting and there's a few reasons to predict an OKC victory here but I'm sticking with the Lakers in a close one. Russell Westbrook has the opportunity to score 25 on Fisher and Farmar. I'm most interested to see if Artest guards Durant, and if so... the results. Prediction: Lakers by 8. Result: Lakers by 3.
Utah @ Dallas: I couldn't care less about this game but in the spirit of equality and objective journalism, I will predict a 15 point win to the Mavericks. Mainly because of Okur's gimpy foot. Result: Mavericks by 11.
Atlanta @ Portland: In my opinion the most exciting game of the night. I definitely predict a shoot out. If Oden and Aldridge can have a large impact, I see the Blazers doing it fairly comfortably. However, that is not a certainty. This one is ultimately a flip of the coin for me and I think it'll go overtime. Prediction: Portland by 4 in OT. Result: Atlanta by 6.
Here's to another entertaining day in the NBA!
Fantasia…
Who will make an improved sized splash in 2009/10?
Here's five players I feel will have break-out seasons..
1) Kevin Durant: With a growing body and a growing supporting cast, I see KD having a very big season. With averages of 25 points and 6.5 rebounds per game last year the sky is the limit here. My crystal ball sees a line of 27ppg, 7rpg and an improved 1.5bpg this year for Durant. Maybe even an All-Star debut in Dallas.
2) Derrick Rose: This kid is only getting better. He led the charge and fast forwarded his development in the Playoffs last year against the Celtics. Rose will also be stronger this year and far more prepared physically for the long NBA season. I see his production lifting and my crystal ball predicts a line of 18ppg, 7apg and a much improved 5 rpg as he learns to swipe those cheap defensive boards at or around the foul line area, Jason Kidd style.
3) Roy Hibbert: In his second year now, I see big things for this 22 year old "plus 7 footer" from Indiana. He only played 14 mins per game last season and with the Pacers' lineup yet to feature anyone else at 7'0", I see Hibbert getting an opportunity at the very least. Pre-season games in China only count for so much of course, but his averages have been great so if you're a Pacers fan, hopes will be high.
4) Mario Chalmers: This young, energetic point guard from Miami had an up and down Rookie campaign but will be a focal point for the Heat this year. His averages last year of 10ppg and 5apg should see a significant increase as the Heat push to become something more in the East. The need to please Dwyane Wade and his agent is of the highest priority. My crystal ball sees Mario averaging closer to 16ppg and lifting his assist average to 8.
5) Shawn Marion: The Matrix has had a couple of lean years to say the least. His stats have suffered a serious decline since his Phoenix and more importantly, Steve Nash days. With Jason Kidd and the Mavericks however, we should really see an increase in Marion's output. Something more along the lines of his career numbers of 18ppg, 10rpg, close to 2spg and just over 1bpg. If the Mavericks are going to mean anything this season, they'll need this sort of an output from The Matrix.
Bring on Fantasy Basketball!
2010
As far as predictions go, I realize this is practically impossible to get 100% correct. A full scale prediction of every team's win-loss record for the upcoming season. And worse yet, it's only September! However, I thought this would be interesting to look back on in June 2010.
Eastern Conference W L
Western Conference W L
Cleveland 60 22
Boston 56 26
Orlando 54 28
Atlanta 50 32
Toronto 45 37
Chicago 43 39
Miami 42 40
Charlotte 39 43
Indiana 38 44
Washington 37 45
Detroit 34 48
Philadelphia 32 50
Milwaukee 28 54
New York 27 55
New Jersey 24 58
LA Lakers 62 20
San Antonio 56 26
Dallas 54 28
Denver 50 32
Portland 50 32
Utah 48 34
New Orleans 42 40
Oklahoma City 41 41
Houston 38 44
Phoenix 37 45
LA Clippers 36 46
Golden State 35 47
Memphis 31 51
Minnesota 28 54
Sacramento 15 67
In making these predictions, I've taken into account all roster changes up to and including the 13th of September 2009. As soon as a blockbuster deal goes down, I may have to edit these figures.
I'm excited to see what Blake Griffin can do for the Clippers, what Allen Iverson can bring to the Grizzlies and how Amare Stoudemire will handle being stuck on a 37-win team. But most importantly, it will be interesting to see who can secure home court advantage throughout the entire Playoffs. This one fact alone may determine the Champion this year.
As always, time will tell and bring on the upcoming season!!!
Threads of success…?
I've had a theory for a long time now regarding NBA teams and new uniforms. This theory has been ridiculed before but the stats don't lie. If an NBA team makes a significant change to their uniforms, they are historically likely to experience a distinct improvement for the current or next season and in a lot of cases a trip to at least the Conference Finals. I'm not saying this is psychological, it just happens.
Let's run through a list of teams that have changed their uniforms and seen prompt results.
 2009 - Orlando Magic (2009 NBA Finals) |
 2008 - Atlanta Hawks (2009 ECSF) |
 2006 - Cleveland Cavaliers (2007 NBA Finals) |
 2005 - Dallas Mavericks (2005 NBA Finals) |
 2003 - San Antonio Spurs (2003 NBA Champions) |
 2001 – New Jersey Nets (2001 NBA Finals) |
 2000 – Los Angeles Lakers (2000 NBA Champions) |
 2000 – Indiana Pacers (2000 NBA Finals) |
 1997 – Utah Jazz (1997 NBA Finals) |
 1996 – Chicago Bulls (1996 NBA Champions) |
 1996 – Seattle SuperSonics (1996 NBA Finals) |
 1993 – Chicago Bulls (1993 NBA Champions) |
 1993 – Phoenix Suns (1993 NBA Finals) |
 1992 – Portland Trailblazers (1992 NBA Finals) |
I'm sure there's more that I can't recall...
So far I've only heard whispers of Philadelphia, Utah and Golden State making uniform changes for this upcoming 09/10 season. I wonder if any other teams are looking to make changes?
Will the trend continue?
Note: All images sourced from: www.sportslogos.net
On the Move…
Well, moving sucks...
Whether it's my move into a new apartment, or a few NBA players' respective moves this off season. Some things work great, while others are just plain gut wrenching.
I'm going to list some good and bad experiences from my recent move, and we'll equate them to some NBA movement.
1) The Truck: Any time you move, you need reliable truck. One that doesn't slip gears, an automatic if possible and well, ropes and padding for support are key. When you're well prepared and you execute properly, it's a fun ride. If you don't secure your load and drive like a maniac, things are horrible and expensive. My move was very smooth and nothing got broken. Not everyone can say that...
Which brings me to Cleveland and Shaquille O'Neal.
The exact same metaphor can be used for this signing. If Shaq's looked after, uninjured and the supporting cast work well with him, the Cavaliers could move to a White House visit next June. Failing this, I see a lot of smashed glass and expensive insurance claims.
2) The Real Estate Agents: We all love to hate them but they do, in most cases iron out the details and ensure a smooth and easy transition to life in a new home. With a good Agent, you can make sure all maintenance is taken care of quickly and with minimal delay. A bad agent offers little feedback, leaves your tap leaking and your window locks non-existent. One of our garage remotes doesn't work, our oven is useless and the condition report was full of more lies than a Florida ballot box.
Which brings me to the Minnesota Timberwolves, and Ricky Rubio.
It's safe to assume that Wolves fans are still feeling a little confused when it comes to their franchise's basic mission statement. Drafting two stellar Point Guard prospects doesn't really fill your general fan with much confidence going forward. David Kahn seems to have a plan, but that plan seems to have too any "back up" options at this stage and no clear goal. To keep answering questions with more questions or just trying to shift the focus to anyone else in the equation is average. Every time Kahn is asked about anything to do with Rubio he just states that everything hinges on the movements of the Agents, the Rubio family, DKV Joventut or Dan Fegan. If I was a Wolves fan, I'd be screaming!
3) The Rent: No one wants to pay rent. But in some cases we have to. You want to negotiate a good price and no one ever wants to feel like they're overpaying. For where we're situated regarding work, freeways, shops etc... We're satisfied.
Which brings me to Shawn Marion and Jason Kidd.
Some people just have too much money. For Dallas to sign these two to the contracts chosen is just a shining example to me that Mark Cuban needs a holiday or a shrink... Or both. Kidd, (3yrs at more than $25m) has been decaying quicker than Derek Fisher over the past 2 years and Marion, (5yrs at close to $40m) hasn't looked like anything since he lived in Arizona. The pair might work great in the open floor and I might have egg on my face, but I think Cuban backed the rental truck into his new house on this one.
And finally...
4) The Friends: With any move, you need good helpers to get the job done. Some good help can be hard to find, but not in my case. My good friend Ryz and my flatmate John were a great help and while their manual labour was appreciated, it was the commeraderie and beer drinking that sealed the deal. Good friends stick together and knowing you can always count on them is the best part.
Which brings me to Dwyane Wade and the Miami Heat.
Wade wants to win, and I could end the paragraph there really. Miami wants to secure him long term. The trouble is, how can Wade commit himself to a team for 6 years and 3 Playoff appearances? That's all they might get if they ink Allen Iverson to a stupid deal or perhaps lose a couple of players to the free agent market. I'm with Dwyane on this one. You need to know that your franchise has your back. Make the moves that will boost Miami to the place the Lakers were three years ago. Make a splash and send a definitive message to the League, the fans and most importantly the best player ever to wear your colours that you're committed to challenging for the trophy. If not, then the Chicago native may take "Wade's World" to the Windy City to start a new revolution at the United Center. It's been just long enough in my opinion, Chicago is ready for a new Heir Apparent.
All in all a successful move for me. Time will tell as to which NBA teams can say the same.
Contraction
The NBA is once again turning into a league of haves and have-nots with some teams going way over the luxury tax line in an effort to contend, while others basically cease to exist.
Golden State, Phoenix, Sacremento, Milwaukee and to a lesser extent Indiana and New Orleans all have given up the ghost. They are gutting their rosters for expiring contracts in an effort to save money. Twenty percent of the league are now not just bottom feeders, but openly giving up wins in an effort to save money.
Not everyone is aching in this economy. Here is hoping a new round of Mark Cubans will come through and sweep these moribund franchises up and rejuvinate them in the way Cuban did for Dallas nearly ten years ago.
There have always been awful franchises, but franchises not trying used to be limited just to L.A.'s second team.
Welcome to the Jungle…
Well, well, well...
We currently stand on some very strange and unprecedented ground after both opening games of the respective Conference Finals. Not only are the Lakers only 48 minutes away from unexpectedly "taking care of business" in the West. But the Cavaliers lost... at home! What IS going on?
Some say the Lakers got lucky, and to a small extent I'd have to agree. But Denver got lucky against Dallas with that now infamous "no-call" and that springboarded them to a 4-1 fatality of both the Mavs and their dinner reservations at the Cuban household. So I guess it says to me that no matter how you do it, you just have to do it. Seems to have worked for the Magic today too. As much as I despise Orlando, it is good to see the Cavaliers get tested and perhaps play a six game series...
I like the way Ryan has bagged me for "changing my spots" when it comes to the Laker 2-0 prediction. At the end of the day, I guess I react to the senseless bashing of the Lakers when it's based around hot air... And hence come out swinging with bold predictions to puff the Lakers reputational chest out. To say Kobe's teammates don't like him, or that they don't play defense because Kobe hogs all the shots just seems ridicuous to me. Just because the Lakers don't pose for fake photographs before the game, doesn't mean they all hate each other. Furthermore, it doesn't mean they all hate Bryant.
Kobe's been the fun-loving gimmick guy... he's six years older than Lebron and has been in the League for seven years longer. If you look at his earlier years he was a young guy with the immature swagger, game playing, showmanship and general goofy behaviour. I remember him posing in Shaq's arms like a baby and plenty of other general clowning around. It's not about that stuff for Kobe anymore. Sure, we'd all like to see a few more assists and a few more rebounds from him, but only because we're comparing him to the one we'll one day refer to as the G.O.A.T.
Maybe my glasses have stumbled back into the yellow and purple jungle, and maybe I'm concentrating too heavily on the Black Mamba himself. But let's face it, he's a cold blooded assassin who does have that special DNA that we all love in an elite athlete, let alone an NBA player. Some more than others I suppose.
Just a side note for a second... But had anyone EVER even referred to this supposed assassin of a reptile before Kobe's marketing crew did? This question conjures up thoughts of Kenny "The Jet" Smith. I keep moaning on about this but my challenge to the Basketball public s simple. Someone put me out of my misery and please show me footage or written proof that Kenny was referred to as "The Jet" before he hit the screens of TNT.
Anyway...
The Lakers will win by 9 today and head back to "hold court" in Denver up 2-0. The Cavs will then look down their metaphoric glasses at the Magic and mutter the golden words "someone gonna get a hurt real bad". And finally, if Mark Jackson is broadcasting the Lakers/Nuggets game tonight I may be physically ill.
Mama there goes my lunch...