Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Monday, October 13, 2008
We're Back...with Football
Apologies to our many readers for the 4-month lay off, I know you've been itching for a return, and me and Mr. Epstein are back to scratch that itch. Let's jump right into football; I'll end with some thoughts on the Fall season's historic lineup of TV shows, headlined, of course, by Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
NFL first, and some quick thoughts on Week 6, and the state of the league in general:
I don't remember a time in any sport where the obviously inferior teams routinely pull out "miracle" victories over superior teams, and yet it happens every week in the NFL and people are still shocked when they happen.
This week saw the Rams, widely considered the worst team in the NFL, upend everyone's new favorite team, the Redskins. On a weekend featurning a number of matchups pitting a good team against a bad time, this was the most uneven game.
And then there was the Super Bowl champs, my New York Giants, getting James Thrashed by the Browns last night in a truly ugly display. Experts will ask questions, but they will inherently be the wrong ones. We must ask not, How did the Giants pass rush fail so miserably, How did the Cardinals front 7 get to Tony Romo every other play, How did the Skins lose despite a big day from Clinton Portis? We must ask, Why is it that great teams - and that they are - consistently lose these games?
The answer might be obvious, but it often goes overlooked. With a 16 game schedule, each series, each down, is magnified to the point that any minor mishap could make all the difference. And it is simply unfair to judge teams from week to week because it is impossible to avoid those mistakes for an entire season. That is why the NFL is so mesmerizing, why gambling on its games is so addictively impossible, and why weekly power rankings are about as insightful as Warren Sapp.
In baseball, when, in the 88th game of the year, a starter allows 6 runs and the 3-4-5 hitters go 1-12, the very next day allows for immediate redemption. In the NFL, we must wait a week, and in those 6 days every facet of a losing team's perfomance must be stripped down and thoroughly dissected. This is not in any way an appropriate reaction to one bad day - the only exception in which to cast immediate judgment is in the case of significant injuries to significant players. NFL teams must be analyzed with a wide lens, encompassing multiple games against multiple opponents.
Are the Rams as good as the Redskins? Of course not. Were they on Sunday? Absolutely. But what does that actually say about the state of each team, and their "power ranking." It says as much as a Royals victory over the Red Sox in June would say.
The way the league stands right now, any one of fifteen teams could reach the Super Bowl; and the team that does will most likely being playing its best ball in January, not in October.
And so, with that said, I will offer my weekly power rankings, but in a slightly different fashion. These are not the teams playing their best right now, these are the teams that I believe, barring injury, have the best shot come Winter:
#1. Colts - The truth is, quarterbacks win Super Bowls. With a very few exceptions, this has always been the case, and with Brady out, Peyton resides as QB Marquee in the NFL. The team has struggled thus far, but I don't see this team mulling around .500 for much longer.
#2. Jaguars - They are talented and hungry and haven't played their best football yet. But when they do they are as good as anyone.
#3. Steelers - The toughest QB in the NFL will win games on his own.
#4. Giants - Don't let last night fool you. Eli felt pressure to force the ball to Plax and their vaunted lines laid proverbial eggs. This won't continue.
#5. Saints - I just like this team, and, again, quarterbacks have the capability of carrying teams for stretches at a time.
NFL first, and some quick thoughts on Week 6, and the state of the league in general:
I don't remember a time in any sport where the obviously inferior teams routinely pull out "miracle" victories over superior teams, and yet it happens every week in the NFL and people are still shocked when they happen.
This week saw the Rams, widely considered the worst team in the NFL, upend everyone's new favorite team, the Redskins. On a weekend featurning a number of matchups pitting a good team against a bad time, this was the most uneven game.
And then there was the Super Bowl champs, my New York Giants, getting James Thrashed by the Browns last night in a truly ugly display. Experts will ask questions, but they will inherently be the wrong ones. We must ask not, How did the Giants pass rush fail so miserably, How did the Cardinals front 7 get to Tony Romo every other play, How did the Skins lose despite a big day from Clinton Portis? We must ask, Why is it that great teams - and that they are - consistently lose these games?
The answer might be obvious, but it often goes overlooked. With a 16 game schedule, each series, each down, is magnified to the point that any minor mishap could make all the difference. And it is simply unfair to judge teams from week to week because it is impossible to avoid those mistakes for an entire season. That is why the NFL is so mesmerizing, why gambling on its games is so addictively impossible, and why weekly power rankings are about as insightful as Warren Sapp.
In baseball, when, in the 88th game of the year, a starter allows 6 runs and the 3-4-5 hitters go 1-12, the very next day allows for immediate redemption. In the NFL, we must wait a week, and in those 6 days every facet of a losing team's perfomance must be stripped down and thoroughly dissected. This is not in any way an appropriate reaction to one bad day - the only exception in which to cast immediate judgment is in the case of significant injuries to significant players. NFL teams must be analyzed with a wide lens, encompassing multiple games against multiple opponents.
Are the Rams as good as the Redskins? Of course not. Were they on Sunday? Absolutely. But what does that actually say about the state of each team, and their "power ranking." It says as much as a Royals victory over the Red Sox in June would say.
The way the league stands right now, any one of fifteen teams could reach the Super Bowl; and the team that does will most likely being playing its best ball in January, not in October.
And so, with that said, I will offer my weekly power rankings, but in a slightly different fashion. These are not the teams playing their best right now, these are the teams that I believe, barring injury, have the best shot come Winter:
#1. Colts - The truth is, quarterbacks win Super Bowls. With a very few exceptions, this has always been the case, and with Brady out, Peyton resides as QB Marquee in the NFL. The team has struggled thus far, but I don't see this team mulling around .500 for much longer.
#2. Jaguars - They are talented and hungry and haven't played their best football yet. But when they do they are as good as anyone.
#3. Steelers - The toughest QB in the NFL will win games on his own.
#4. Giants - Don't let last night fool you. Eli felt pressure to force the ball to Plax and their vaunted lines laid proverbial eggs. This won't continue.
#5. Saints - I just like this team, and, again, quarterbacks have the capability of carrying teams for stretches at a time.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Iron Man and 1st Movie List
After seeing Iron Man with Epstizz last night, we were prompted to complete our list of the Top 10 Super Hero movies of all-time. Let's start with a quick Iron Man review, and then get on with our first list.
Iron Man - Robert Downey Jr steals this movie from the opening scene. He is superb as the genius billionaire who has a sudden change of perspective when he is kidnapped by Afghani rebels. The opening sequence, up until he is captured in the desert, is non-stop entertainment, complete with laughs, girls, and amazing technology and scenery. Basically, it combined Entourage with an action movie...but with slightly better acting. Anyway, I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just say that I highly recommend the movie. It was as good as summer movies get.
Onto the List
#1 - Batman Begins
No real question here, the pinnacle of super hero movies features Christian Bale as the Caped Crusader. My sources tell me that Dark Knight may soon replace its predecessor, but, for now, Batman Begins rules all.
#2 - Batman
Jack Nicholson alone notches this spot.
#3 - Iron Man
See Above - Tony Stark is possibly the most likeable of all the superheros
#4 - Superman
A Marlon Brando sighting and the dawn of the superhero era make this film a true classic.
#5 - Spider Man
The anticipation for this movie, when it premiered five years ago, was as high as any movie that has ever come out. And it lived up to the hype.
#5 - X:Men 2: X Men United
The second of the X:Men trilogy is the best of the three. X2 had great new characters and an unforgettable opening scene (with Nightcrawler in the White House...well, I guess it is forgettable if I had to remind you).
#6 - The Incredibles
The best comedy of the superhero genre, the Incredibles was non-stop laughs, and deserves a spot on the list.
# 7 - Batman Returns
One of the darker and eerier superhero movies, Tim Burton returned with a bang for his 2nd, and final, Batman film. Michelle Pfeiffer and Danny DeVito were superb and believable as Catwoman and Penguin.
# 8 - X:Men
The first will always get its due, too. Has there ever been a more perfect fit for comic book character and movie star as Wolverine and Hugh Jackman?
# 9 - Spider Man 2
Not as good as the 2nd, but very entertaining, nonetheless. The major problem with Spider Man is his lack of enemies as recognizable as the Jokers and Lex Luthors.
# 10 - Batman Forever
This was a close call, but the cast was too good to ignore. It featured: over-the-top yet enjoyable performances by Tommy Lee Jones and Jim Carrey as Two Face and the Riddler, the arrival, finally, of Robin (Chris O'Donnell), and the sexy love interest played by Nicole Kidman; Forever had it all, except a believable Batman.
Iron Man - Robert Downey Jr steals this movie from the opening scene. He is superb as the genius billionaire who has a sudden change of perspective when he is kidnapped by Afghani rebels. The opening sequence, up until he is captured in the desert, is non-stop entertainment, complete with laughs, girls, and amazing technology and scenery. Basically, it combined Entourage with an action movie...but with slightly better acting. Anyway, I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just say that I highly recommend the movie. It was as good as summer movies get.
Onto the List
#1 - Batman Begins
No real question here, the pinnacle of super hero movies features Christian Bale as the Caped Crusader. My sources tell me that Dark Knight may soon replace its predecessor, but, for now, Batman Begins rules all.
#2 - Batman
Jack Nicholson alone notches this spot.
#3 - Iron Man
See Above - Tony Stark is possibly the most likeable of all the superheros
#4 - Superman
A Marlon Brando sighting and the dawn of the superhero era make this film a true classic.
#5 - Spider Man
The anticipation for this movie, when it premiered five years ago, was as high as any movie that has ever come out. And it lived up to the hype.
#5 - X:Men 2: X Men United
The second of the X:Men trilogy is the best of the three. X2 had great new characters and an unforgettable opening scene (with Nightcrawler in the White House...well, I guess it is forgettable if I had to remind you).
#6 - The Incredibles
The best comedy of the superhero genre, the Incredibles was non-stop laughs, and deserves a spot on the list.
# 7 - Batman Returns
One of the darker and eerier superhero movies, Tim Burton returned with a bang for his 2nd, and final, Batman film. Michelle Pfeiffer and Danny DeVito were superb and believable as Catwoman and Penguin.
# 8 - X:Men
The first will always get its due, too. Has there ever been a more perfect fit for comic book character and movie star as Wolverine and Hugh Jackman?
# 9 - Spider Man 2
Not as good as the 2nd, but very entertaining, nonetheless. The major problem with Spider Man is his lack of enemies as recognizable as the Jokers and Lex Luthors.
# 10 - Batman Forever
This was a close call, but the cast was too good to ignore. It featured: over-the-top yet enjoyable performances by Tommy Lee Jones and Jim Carrey as Two Face and the Riddler, the arrival, finally, of Robin (Chris O'Donnell), and the sexy love interest played by Nicole Kidman; Forever had it all, except a believable Batman.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
2nd Round Predictions
These predictions were made prior to the start of yesterday's game:
West
Hornets v Spurs
The Hornets are great, but running into the Spurs in the playoffs is like gambling in a casino: you might win but the odds are definitely against you. The Hornets need a few more pieces to become a true title contender. They lack a big, dependable 2-guard, someone who can spot up and hit a 3 or midranger and play defense against the West's best, like Manu, Kobe, and T-Mac. Until they get that guy - someone in the mold of Raja Bell or Corey Magette - I think they will struggle as they advance in the playoffs. Any noticeable weakness will be highlighted by a Greg Popovich-led team.
Spurs in 7
Lakers v Jazz
The Jazz are a well-constructed team, with great shooters, physical defenders, great coaching and depth. But there are just not talented enough for the Lakers. LA is peaking right now and they are the only team thus far that hasn't played a grueling or taxing game. Add that to the fact that Utah's homecourt advantage has ebbed slightly this year, and I think the Lakers dominate this series.
Lakers in 5
Pistons v Magic
It's tough to tell whether the Pistons will get up for this series. But one game stood out during the 1st Round that offers a very bright outlook for the rest of the postseason. When the Celtics claimed they took off games early on against the Hawks, they returned to Atlanta for Game 6 and got beat. But when the Pistons used those same excuses for their losses, they went to Philly for Game 6 and crushed the Sixers. That tells me that their heads are in the right spot right now.
Pistons in 6
Celtics v Cavs
This, to me, is the toughest series to gage. If the Celtics played how they did in Game 65 of the regular season, I'd say Celtics in 6. But they're recent struggles have me thinking any game the Cavs keep close is one the Cavs will win. And the Cavs, with their great defense, are deisgned to keep games close. I think the Celts will win 2, even 3 blowouts, but the Cavs will win 3 close ones. It's that 7th game that's so difficult to imagine. It comes down to Homecourt vs Lebron. Which factor will help their team steal more games? Let's take a stab and say Lebron.
Cavs in 7
West
Hornets v Spurs
The Hornets are great, but running into the Spurs in the playoffs is like gambling in a casino: you might win but the odds are definitely against you. The Hornets need a few more pieces to become a true title contender. They lack a big, dependable 2-guard, someone who can spot up and hit a 3 or midranger and play defense against the West's best, like Manu, Kobe, and T-Mac. Until they get that guy - someone in the mold of Raja Bell or Corey Magette - I think they will struggle as they advance in the playoffs. Any noticeable weakness will be highlighted by a Greg Popovich-led team.
Spurs in 7
Lakers v Jazz
The Jazz are a well-constructed team, with great shooters, physical defenders, great coaching and depth. But there are just not talented enough for the Lakers. LA is peaking right now and they are the only team thus far that hasn't played a grueling or taxing game. Add that to the fact that Utah's homecourt advantage has ebbed slightly this year, and I think the Lakers dominate this series.
Lakers in 5
Pistons v Magic
It's tough to tell whether the Pistons will get up for this series. But one game stood out during the 1st Round that offers a very bright outlook for the rest of the postseason. When the Celtics claimed they took off games early on against the Hawks, they returned to Atlanta for Game 6 and got beat. But when the Pistons used those same excuses for their losses, they went to Philly for Game 6 and crushed the Sixers. That tells me that their heads are in the right spot right now.
Pistons in 6
Celtics v Cavs
This, to me, is the toughest series to gage. If the Celtics played how they did in Game 65 of the regular season, I'd say Celtics in 6. But they're recent struggles have me thinking any game the Cavs keep close is one the Cavs will win. And the Cavs, with their great defense, are deisgned to keep games close. I think the Celts will win 2, even 3 blowouts, but the Cavs will win 3 close ones. It's that 7th game that's so difficult to imagine. It comes down to Homecourt vs Lebron. Which factor will help their team steal more games? Let's take a stab and say Lebron.
Cavs in 7
Rundown of Celtic Flaws
I had the Celtics blowing out the Hawks today, but I think they're issues have already been revealed, and good coaches will eventually exploit their major weaknesses. If there was anything about them I was most surprised about, it was their failures on the road, especially in front of an Atlanta crowd that didn't seem that overwhelming. I want to run down their main issues:
1. Lack of Playoff Experience/Chemistry
What the Spurs and the early-90s Lakers teams have shown us is chemistry come playoff time is paramount to playoff success. Sometimes great teams can overcome chemistry issues, but the Celtics appear to not be one of those teams. We saw very similar problems with the Suns in their 1st Round series; they botched multiple huge, late-game plays, and one of the reasons had to be they had trouble playing with new teammates. It is rare for teams to make a leap from the lottery to instance playoff success, and the teams that do usually have a point guard or key player to hold the team together (think Steve Nash and Chris Paul). There have also been countless examples of teams failing when doing what the Celtics did (think the Lakers after adding Gary Payton and Karl Malone).
2. Lack of a Clear Cut Rotation
I don't know if Danny Ainge or Doc Rivers deserves more of the blame here, but the Celtics continued adding veteran players throughout the season to a point where they are now experiencing diminishing returns. The more veterans you have, the more playing time is expected, the more the coach feels obligated to find them minutes, and the more the coach ignores the younger players on the bench. This does not sound like a formula for success. The entire year the Celtics relied on key contributions from guys like Big Baby and Eddie House; now, Sam Cassell is playing huge minutes. There is something to be said for experience; but there is also something to be said about how the Celtics actually got to where they are.
3. The "Big Shot Allergy" Afflicting KG
No need to discuss. Just a mesmorizing flaw of one of the best players of all time.
4. Doc Rivers
I was not alone in being very impressed with Doc Rivers' regular season. He did alot of things right, but his most important qualities were taking a step back and letting his team grow on the court. He rarely overcoached which really helped guys like Rondo and Perkins develop confidence. But in Game 6, Rivers made an inexplicable and possibly unfixable move: after Rondo missed a tough layup (in which he tried taking the ball to the rim for the first time in about 6 Celtics possessions), Rivers yanked Rondo. This would not have happened during the regular season; but Rivers is becoming a little too impatient and reluctant to let his youngsters rebound from mistakes when he can substitute in a veteran. This is an offshoot of Ainge's veteran-signing spree - the oversight I discussed on the part of Steve Kerr and Donn Nelson has plagued Ainge too; he has a history of struggling to control rotations and right now, for a coach with those problems, his bench is a nightmare. But Rivers also has to believe more in his players and give them a chance to develop that thick shell characteristic of any big-time player.
1. Lack of Playoff Experience/Chemistry
What the Spurs and the early-90s Lakers teams have shown us is chemistry come playoff time is paramount to playoff success. Sometimes great teams can overcome chemistry issues, but the Celtics appear to not be one of those teams. We saw very similar problems with the Suns in their 1st Round series; they botched multiple huge, late-game plays, and one of the reasons had to be they had trouble playing with new teammates. It is rare for teams to make a leap from the lottery to instance playoff success, and the teams that do usually have a point guard or key player to hold the team together (think Steve Nash and Chris Paul). There have also been countless examples of teams failing when doing what the Celtics did (think the Lakers after adding Gary Payton and Karl Malone).
2. Lack of a Clear Cut Rotation
I don't know if Danny Ainge or Doc Rivers deserves more of the blame here, but the Celtics continued adding veteran players throughout the season to a point where they are now experiencing diminishing returns. The more veterans you have, the more playing time is expected, the more the coach feels obligated to find them minutes, and the more the coach ignores the younger players on the bench. This does not sound like a formula for success. The entire year the Celtics relied on key contributions from guys like Big Baby and Eddie House; now, Sam Cassell is playing huge minutes. There is something to be said for experience; but there is also something to be said about how the Celtics actually got to where they are.
3. The "Big Shot Allergy" Afflicting KG
No need to discuss. Just a mesmorizing flaw of one of the best players of all time.
4. Doc Rivers
I was not alone in being very impressed with Doc Rivers' regular season. He did alot of things right, but his most important qualities were taking a step back and letting his team grow on the court. He rarely overcoached which really helped guys like Rondo and Perkins develop confidence. But in Game 6, Rivers made an inexplicable and possibly unfixable move: after Rondo missed a tough layup (in which he tried taking the ball to the rim for the first time in about 6 Celtics possessions), Rivers yanked Rondo. This would not have happened during the regular season; but Rivers is becoming a little too impatient and reluctant to let his youngsters rebound from mistakes when he can substitute in a veteran. This is an offshoot of Ainge's veteran-signing spree - the oversight I discussed on the part of Steve Kerr and Donn Nelson has plagued Ainge too; he has a history of struggling to control rotations and right now, for a coach with those problems, his bench is a nightmare. But Rivers also has to believe more in his players and give them a chance to develop that thick shell characteristic of any big-time player.
Friday, May 2, 2008
The only guy that can lose it for the celtics
I gotta agree with Fabs that Doc really is a horrendous coach for letting Ray Allen get consistently burned by Joe Johnson in Game 4 and refusing to play Tony Allen in stretches (their best perimeter defender, yet most turnover-prone guy). However, I think Ian Thomsen and I disagree with Fabs about the whole lack of intensity issue. Now a few thoughts on some Celtics players after watching Game 5 from the balcony:
KG:
Although this may sound absurd, given how intense he is, I really think KG has to step his up aggresiveness, especially on the offensive end. Josh Smith (although a great shot-blocker) can't guard him in the post. So instead of settling for 15 footers (which he usually makes anyway), let's see him use his quickness to drive to the rim or use a couple quick post moves and his absurdly long arms to angle shots over his man. Maybe even get to the foul line for once? No one on the Hawks (or most other Eastern Conference teams for that matter) can guard him due to superior athletic ability.
Sam Cassell/Rondo:
His ability to spot up and shoot really mixes it up for the Cs and allows them to rest Rondo (whose quickness and slashing can scare defenders). The Hawks defenders appeared confusing at first when Cassell came into the game as they had been playing back on Rondo (due to his utter lack of shooting skills) and now were forced to really get out and defend the jump shot (of which Cassell made 6/8). However, Cassell really has lost a step in his old age and can barely defend the quicker Hawk guards. I saw him get burned back door 2 plays in row; by the time he realized his man was by him, he was about 5 steps too late to make a stop. He barely played 7 minutes in the 1st half and still came out of the locker room with ice bandages wrapped around his entire upper body. That's when you know you're getting old. Cassell's defensive liability may come back to haunt the Cs late in a big game down the road. Thus, Doc faces a decision: leave Cassell in at the end of games for his superior shooting (especially foul shooting) or play Rondo who can't hit the back side of a barn, yet whose slashing ability and defensive tenacity could be key in big games.
Pierce: I really liked the way he drove to the basket in Game 5 instead of settling for long jumpers. Although a great shooter, I'd like to see him drive more and use all of his 240 lbs to muscle the leaner Hawks players around the basket. Even backing a guy into the post and hitting on of his trademark turn-around Js should be easy. No one on the Hawks can guard him one on one and he's gotta take advantage of that.
Perkins/Powe: Powe is much better defensively and offensively for this team. It's not even close. Perkins can't stay in for more than 4 minutes at a time without looking completely exhausted (I'm not kidding). On top of that, he's one of the slower players I've ever seen and although a decent shot-blocker and dunker (when within 1 foot of the basket), he's got nothing on Powe. Powe plays tenacious defense and really works well around the rim, especially his little up and under reverse that he has been using.
Unfortunately for the Celtics, Doc is a horrendous coach and so he probably hasn't told them any of this. However, the Celtics veteran core are old enough that they've got to realize these things on their own and take control. Should the Celtics lose before the finals this year, Doc should (but probably won't) be on his way out of town. Epstein for Celtics coach 2008-2009?
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Quick Thought on the Celtics
I saw an interview with Kevin Garnett, I think after their Game 5 blowout of the Hawks, where he was offering an explanation of why the Celtics lost Games 3 and 4 in Atlanta. He said that the team came out slow and uninspired in the wake of two routs in Games 1 and 2.
That may absolutely have been the case, and, who knows, maybe that's the last time they take any of their opponents lightly. But if I were a Celtics fan, I'd be a little concerned. And you know why? Because if there was one thing the Celtics didn't do all year, it was take teams lightly!
The Celtics won during the regular season by decisive margins, night in and night out. Just for a frame of reference, they played the Nets twice in three games towards the end of the season, one in Boston and one in New Jersey. After beating the Nets by 20 in the first game at home, did they take the Nets lightly the next game? No, they won by 12. This might not be the most damning of evidence, but if you consider it in context, it can mean alot more than what it may seem. (And if you want to argue that the Hawks are a better team than the Nets, I'd say that the different between the Celtics and the Hawks and the Celtics and the Nets is very similar; that is, the Celtics are vastly superior to both.)
So now in the playoffs, the Celtics drop consecutive road games to an inferior team, and they blame it on a lack of intensity. It's very easy to brush off losses employing this excuse. But I just don't buy it. For a team to play as intense for 80 straight games as the Celtics did this season, it's pretty hard to imagine that, here in the post-season, they decided to let off steam for not one, but two games. If this was the Pistons, I would understand; they have a history of taking breather in big spots. But the Celtics played harder over a season than any team I can remember watching; and now they want us to think they dogged it in the playoffs.
Celtics fans should not be so quick to take Garnett's word as truth on this one. I think they are either running on fumes or finally realizing they have one of the weaker coaches still manning a bench. A ray of hope for the latter: every year the West weeds out the bad coaches, but that doesn't always happen in the East.
But I think it's more than that. If losing those games did anything, it hurt their confidence. The playoffs will continue to get more difficult, and if the Celtics keep losing games on the road, with 4th quarter leads, to inferior teams, that sense of dominance will continue to recede.
My prediction: If the Pistons make the Eastern finals, they will beat the Celtics. That is the one series in the East the Pistons will wake up for, and if Doc Rivers makes mistakes (like keeping Ray Allen on Joe Johnson in Game 4) he may find himself without any extra games to correct them.
That may absolutely have been the case, and, who knows, maybe that's the last time they take any of their opponents lightly. But if I were a Celtics fan, I'd be a little concerned. And you know why? Because if there was one thing the Celtics didn't do all year, it was take teams lightly!
The Celtics won during the regular season by decisive margins, night in and night out. Just for a frame of reference, they played the Nets twice in three games towards the end of the season, one in Boston and one in New Jersey. After beating the Nets by 20 in the first game at home, did they take the Nets lightly the next game? No, they won by 12. This might not be the most damning of evidence, but if you consider it in context, it can mean alot more than what it may seem. (And if you want to argue that the Hawks are a better team than the Nets, I'd say that the different between the Celtics and the Hawks and the Celtics and the Nets is very similar; that is, the Celtics are vastly superior to both.)
So now in the playoffs, the Celtics drop consecutive road games to an inferior team, and they blame it on a lack of intensity. It's very easy to brush off losses employing this excuse. But I just don't buy it. For a team to play as intense for 80 straight games as the Celtics did this season, it's pretty hard to imagine that, here in the post-season, they decided to let off steam for not one, but two games. If this was the Pistons, I would understand; they have a history of taking breather in big spots. But the Celtics played harder over a season than any team I can remember watching; and now they want us to think they dogged it in the playoffs.
Celtics fans should not be so quick to take Garnett's word as truth on this one. I think they are either running on fumes or finally realizing they have one of the weaker coaches still manning a bench. A ray of hope for the latter: every year the West weeds out the bad coaches, but that doesn't always happen in the East.
But I think it's more than that. If losing those games did anything, it hurt their confidence. The playoffs will continue to get more difficult, and if the Celtics keep losing games on the road, with 4th quarter leads, to inferior teams, that sense of dominance will continue to recede.
My prediction: If the Pistons make the Eastern finals, they will beat the Celtics. That is the one series in the East the Pistons will wake up for, and if Doc Rivers makes mistakes (like keeping Ray Allen on Joe Johnson in Game 4) he may find himself without any extra games to correct them.
Costas Now
If you haven't seen the new episode of Costas Now on HBO, please watch it. It's as fascinating and entertaining as any sports show I have seen in a while.
The NBA Playoffs and Avery/D'Antoni
This year more so than any in recent memory, the best teams added and subtracted key players at various points during the season, and some teams were able to cope better than others. The Lakers and the Celtics were two examples of teams incorporating new guys into their systems without missing a beat. The Mavs and the Suns, however, had their share of problems. I wrote about this before, but I have a few more thoughts after witnessing the demise of both teams this playoffs.
Let's start with the Mavs:
They traded away Devin Harris, bright, young point guard and DeSagana Diop, an average big man, and in turn received Jason Kidd. This was widely considered a questionable move but there was reason to believe the Mavs were onto something. And then Dirk got hurt and the team lost some games, and it seemed like their season was unraveling. Ok, so they experienced a far more troublesome honeymoon period than the Lakers did after getting Pao Gasol, but towards the end of the season it appeared as if the Mavs had regained some sense of unity as a team. Then they collapsed in the playoffs and Avery Johnson was immediately fired. Well, you know what? To fire a guy you must examine his situation closely, and you know what I see when examining this Mavs' season? A situation in which Avery was set up to lose.
It would have been one thing if the Mavs faced the Rockets or the Lakers in a first round match up and got beat in 5. It's quite different when you trade away your fast, athletic point guard in return for a slow, unathletic one and expect him to compete in the West. I mean, come on, Kidd got beat all year by better point guards, and now you put him in a position where, to make it through to the finals, he would have had to face either 2 or 3 of the following guards: Chris Paul, Tony Parker, Steve Nash, or Deron Williams. How is that Avery Johnson's fault? The correct answer? It isn't.
What happened was exactly what happened with the signing of Shaq: a tremendous oversight by the general manager. Donn Nelson thought that what the Mavs needed was a facilitator who could run the offense in both transition and in the half court. What he failed to consider was how terrible his defense had become, and how it would reflect poorly on a coach who realized this much but had few alternative options to playing him.
As for Mike D'Antoni and the Suns, a very similar pattern developed early in the playoffs. Steve Kerr thought the team needed an inside presence who could dominate at times. They needed that prototypical big man in the middle. But he failed miserably in recognizing that, even though Shaq may beat the Spurs in the regular season, Greg Popovich figured out a pretty simple method of containing him come playoff time: Hack-A-Shaq.
How can D'Antoni be expected to fulfill his duties as coach when his key new addition is as close to useless on the court as their Sean Marx would have been. This is not a knock on Shaq. It is entirely a knock on Steve Kerr and how his images of a future with Shaq failed to consider the infamous defense tailored to stop him in the playoffs.
Avery Johnson and Mike D'Antoni gave their owners and fans exactly what they could: a great regular season. But those two additions proved to be of no help, and even somewhat of a detriment, when the post-season rolled around. I'm not sure how any of that is their fault.
Let's start with the Mavs:
They traded away Devin Harris, bright, young point guard and DeSagana Diop, an average big man, and in turn received Jason Kidd. This was widely considered a questionable move but there was reason to believe the Mavs were onto something. And then Dirk got hurt and the team lost some games, and it seemed like their season was unraveling. Ok, so they experienced a far more troublesome honeymoon period than the Lakers did after getting Pao Gasol, but towards the end of the season it appeared as if the Mavs had regained some sense of unity as a team. Then they collapsed in the playoffs and Avery Johnson was immediately fired. Well, you know what? To fire a guy you must examine his situation closely, and you know what I see when examining this Mavs' season? A situation in which Avery was set up to lose.
It would have been one thing if the Mavs faced the Rockets or the Lakers in a first round match up and got beat in 5. It's quite different when you trade away your fast, athletic point guard in return for a slow, unathletic one and expect him to compete in the West. I mean, come on, Kidd got beat all year by better point guards, and now you put him in a position where, to make it through to the finals, he would have had to face either 2 or 3 of the following guards: Chris Paul, Tony Parker, Steve Nash, or Deron Williams. How is that Avery Johnson's fault? The correct answer? It isn't.
What happened was exactly what happened with the signing of Shaq: a tremendous oversight by the general manager. Donn Nelson thought that what the Mavs needed was a facilitator who could run the offense in both transition and in the half court. What he failed to consider was how terrible his defense had become, and how it would reflect poorly on a coach who realized this much but had few alternative options to playing him.
As for Mike D'Antoni and the Suns, a very similar pattern developed early in the playoffs. Steve Kerr thought the team needed an inside presence who could dominate at times. They needed that prototypical big man in the middle. But he failed miserably in recognizing that, even though Shaq may beat the Spurs in the regular season, Greg Popovich figured out a pretty simple method of containing him come playoff time: Hack-A-Shaq.
How can D'Antoni be expected to fulfill his duties as coach when his key new addition is as close to useless on the court as their Sean Marx would have been. This is not a knock on Shaq. It is entirely a knock on Steve Kerr and how his images of a future with Shaq failed to consider the infamous defense tailored to stop him in the playoffs.
Avery Johnson and Mike D'Antoni gave their owners and fans exactly what they could: a great regular season. But those two additions proved to be of no help, and even somewhat of a detriment, when the post-season rolled around. I'm not sure how any of that is their fault.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Yea I wouldn't want to run into him either
The next scrub QB for the Miami Dolphins can rest easy. At 6' 7", 315 lbs, top pick Jake Long will be protecting him for a long time to come.
Thoughts from the Weekend
The NBA and NHL Playoffs, early-season baseball and a couple of fantastic finishes in golf, but all anybody wants to talk about is the NFL Draft (OK, the golf one was a stretch...)
Some thoughts about the draft:
- Too bad the Giants didn't deal Shockey. Coming out of last season they had one glaring tradeable commodity, the perpetually-discontent tight end who almost singlehandedly killed Eli Manning's confidence over the past 3 seasons. That the Giants won the Super Bowl without him was in no way a coincidence: his absence gave Eli some breathing room and allowed him to seize control of his offense. Here's hoping the Giants' winning without him will bring Shockey down a few notches - I just can't wrestle the image from my mind of a Week 3 overthrow leading to Shockey chewing out Eli.
- At the top of the draft you will inevitably have some teams in need of a makeover, some more so than others. Teams have unsuccesful seasons for a number of reasons - injuries and/or off-the-field problems, player discontent or failure to connect with the coach, or a simple lack of personnel - and the function of the draft is to address the problems of the season before. Well, the Atlanta Falcons had to right a ship that was torn apart by every feasible problem that could plague a franchise, and, in doing so, they were forced to select a player who would immediately boost fan morale.
The Dolphins were in the position of having decent talent at a number of positions and had only to focus on specific needs. The Falcons, on the other hand, had to focus on "making a splash", even if it meant not necessarily choosing their highest rated prospect. That is why the Falcons, and the Raiders as well, are so much farther away from success than the other high-drafting teams. Those other teams, while having problems of their own, did not need an image makeover. That was not the case with the Raiders and the Falcons.
- Just to provide an example of what I discussed above: For the 2nd year in a row, the New York Giants selected a well-known, big-name wide receiver in the 2nd Round. Now, I am not contending that they did so to boost fan interest, because fan interest is at an all-time high. But drafting someone like Mario Manningham does provide the fans with a great offensive threat they remember from college, and that makes that guy all the more appealing. Being able to monitor the progress of big-time collegians does add some new level of interest for the team.
Do you know what can sometimes happen, though, when that philosophy wins out? You get last year's debacle in Miami in which the Fins drafted a big-name receiver way too high. Yes, they may have truly wanted Ted Ginn Jr, but the fact that fans already know him and like him makes the pick that much more enticing.
- Prediction: Ray Rice will be either as good or better than Darren McFadden over a 7-year span. For every Adrian Peterson, they are 4 Curtis Enis's. The same might be said for later-round running backs, but team's dont wager the future of the organization on it.
- Prediction: Matt Ryan is a great quarterback in this league for years to come. How quarterbacks play in the 4th quarter under pressure tells the most about long-term sucess, and he was built to lead that 2-minute offense.
- Prediction: Vernon Gholston is not with the Jets after his rookie contract expires. That was not the right pick for a Jets team that needs an Antonio Pierce-type on defense: a vocal leader who gives his all on every play.
Some thoughts about the draft:
- Too bad the Giants didn't deal Shockey. Coming out of last season they had one glaring tradeable commodity, the perpetually-discontent tight end who almost singlehandedly killed Eli Manning's confidence over the past 3 seasons. That the Giants won the Super Bowl without him was in no way a coincidence: his absence gave Eli some breathing room and allowed him to seize control of his offense. Here's hoping the Giants' winning without him will bring Shockey down a few notches - I just can't wrestle the image from my mind of a Week 3 overthrow leading to Shockey chewing out Eli.
- At the top of the draft you will inevitably have some teams in need of a makeover, some more so than others. Teams have unsuccesful seasons for a number of reasons - injuries and/or off-the-field problems, player discontent or failure to connect with the coach, or a simple lack of personnel - and the function of the draft is to address the problems of the season before. Well, the Atlanta Falcons had to right a ship that was torn apart by every feasible problem that could plague a franchise, and, in doing so, they were forced to select a player who would immediately boost fan morale.
The Dolphins were in the position of having decent talent at a number of positions and had only to focus on specific needs. The Falcons, on the other hand, had to focus on "making a splash", even if it meant not necessarily choosing their highest rated prospect. That is why the Falcons, and the Raiders as well, are so much farther away from success than the other high-drafting teams. Those other teams, while having problems of their own, did not need an image makeover. That was not the case with the Raiders and the Falcons.
- Just to provide an example of what I discussed above: For the 2nd year in a row, the New York Giants selected a well-known, big-name wide receiver in the 2nd Round. Now, I am not contending that they did so to boost fan interest, because fan interest is at an all-time high. But drafting someone like Mario Manningham does provide the fans with a great offensive threat they remember from college, and that makes that guy all the more appealing. Being able to monitor the progress of big-time collegians does add some new level of interest for the team.
Do you know what can sometimes happen, though, when that philosophy wins out? You get last year's debacle in Miami in which the Fins drafted a big-name receiver way too high. Yes, they may have truly wanted Ted Ginn Jr, but the fact that fans already know him and like him makes the pick that much more enticing.
- Prediction: Ray Rice will be either as good or better than Darren McFadden over a 7-year span. For every Adrian Peterson, they are 4 Curtis Enis's. The same might be said for later-round running backs, but team's dont wager the future of the organization on it.
- Prediction: Matt Ryan is a great quarterback in this league for years to come. How quarterbacks play in the 4th quarter under pressure tells the most about long-term sucess, and he was built to lead that 2-minute offense.
- Prediction: Vernon Gholston is not with the Jets after his rookie contract expires. That was not the right pick for a Jets team that needs an Antonio Pierce-type on defense: a vocal leader who gives his all on every play.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Response to Epstizz
I like Epstizz's picks but there are a few things I disagree with. So, without further ado, here are my 2008 All NBA 1st, 2nd, and 3rd teams.
* Note, I will be stricter about positions, so Baron Davis can only be a 1
1st TEAM
At the 1 - Chris Paul
A No-Brainer and possibly the most deserving of MVP candidates
At the 2 - Kobe Bryant
Also a No-Brainer and the likely MVP who, unlike Steve Nash, was able to flawlessly incorporate a new big man into his offense
At the 3 - Lebron James
The hands down MVP if his team, hampered all year by injuries and a mega trade, had won, oh, 8-10 more games; put up staggering numbers
At the 4 - Kevin Garnett
The fan-favorite and loveable loser was the toast of Boston this year, and deservedly so. While his offensive numbers were not eye-popping, his contributions to the Celtics can in no way be overstated
At the 5 - Dwight Howard
The toughest call of the first team, primarily because he's not a top 5 player; but Amare is a 4 and Yao missed half the year, so, by default, Dwight winds up here. That doesn't take away from his terrific breakout year
2nd TEAM
At the 1 - Deron Williams
Epstizz chose Steve Nash here, but I think Deron Williams had more to do with his team's success than Nash did with the Suns
At the 2 - Tracy McGrady
Epstizz had Manu in this spot, but I think T-Mac was more valuable this season. We have to forget the fact that the Rockets are not a threatening playoff team and remember the sensational regular season they had; the most glaring weakness with that team was if a defense learned how to stop T-Mac, the Rockets were very beatable...well that puts T-Mac in Lebron company
At the 3 - Paul Pierce
It's easy to attribute their success solely to Kevin Garnett, but aving watched many Celtics games, it was impossible to ignore the fact that Pierce was hands down, no question their best offensive player the entire season
At the 4 - Amare Stoudemire
The Suns were trying to make a case for his MVP candidacy, and they were partly right about his impact. After the Shaq trade he averaged around 30 points a game and was nearly unstoppable
At the 5 - Tim Duncan
Duncan plays the 5 in key situations, so we can put him here. He had a very productive year, as the Spurs always do. He notches this spot for the same reasons KG is an MVP candidate
3rd TEAM
At the 1 - Steve Nash
Nash has assembled some of the most remarkable shooting percentages we will ever see and is as clutch as anyone when the game is on the line. The total absence of any semblence of defense hurts his ranking here
At the 2 - Manu Ginobli
It is hard to laud great players on poor teams, which is why so many of the All NBAers hail from the same top-tier squads. Consideration was given to Andre Iguadola, Allen Iverson, Monta Ellis and the likes, but Manu ranks only behind Lebron and Kobe as the league's best closers; that's gotta be worth something
At the 3 - Hedo Turkoglu
Hard choice over Carmelo, but Turkoglu did it all this year, including serving as the team's late-game threat
At the 4 - Dirk Nowitzki
Very close call over Antawn Jamison; after all, the Wizard's power forward led his team, in the absense Gilbert, to a 5 seed in the East. But Nowitzki never quit this year and has the numbers to back up his case
At the 5 - Carlos Boozer
A minor stretch here, but Boozer is really the Jazz's center. He had another terrific year and the duo of him and Deron brings back memories of the 90s
Honorable Mention
Jamison and Butler, Carmelo and Iverson, Baron Iguadola and Miller (Andre, that is), Chris Bosh, and Baron Davis....get em next year
* Note, I will be stricter about positions, so Baron Davis can only be a 1
1st TEAM
At the 1 - Chris Paul
A No-Brainer and possibly the most deserving of MVP candidates
At the 2 - Kobe Bryant
Also a No-Brainer and the likely MVP who, unlike Steve Nash, was able to flawlessly incorporate a new big man into his offense
At the 3 - Lebron James
The hands down MVP if his team, hampered all year by injuries and a mega trade, had won, oh, 8-10 more games; put up staggering numbers
At the 4 - Kevin Garnett
The fan-favorite and loveable loser was the toast of Boston this year, and deservedly so. While his offensive numbers were not eye-popping, his contributions to the Celtics can in no way be overstated
At the 5 - Dwight Howard
The toughest call of the first team, primarily because he's not a top 5 player; but Amare is a 4 and Yao missed half the year, so, by default, Dwight winds up here. That doesn't take away from his terrific breakout year
2nd TEAM
At the 1 - Deron Williams
Epstizz chose Steve Nash here, but I think Deron Williams had more to do with his team's success than Nash did with the Suns
At the 2 - Tracy McGrady
Epstizz had Manu in this spot, but I think T-Mac was more valuable this season. We have to forget the fact that the Rockets are not a threatening playoff team and remember the sensational regular season they had; the most glaring weakness with that team was if a defense learned how to stop T-Mac, the Rockets were very beatable...well that puts T-Mac in Lebron company
At the 3 - Paul Pierce
It's easy to attribute their success solely to Kevin Garnett, but aving watched many Celtics games, it was impossible to ignore the fact that Pierce was hands down, no question their best offensive player the entire season
At the 4 - Amare Stoudemire
The Suns were trying to make a case for his MVP candidacy, and they were partly right about his impact. After the Shaq trade he averaged around 30 points a game and was nearly unstoppable
At the 5 - Tim Duncan
Duncan plays the 5 in key situations, so we can put him here. He had a very productive year, as the Spurs always do. He notches this spot for the same reasons KG is an MVP candidate
3rd TEAM
At the 1 - Steve Nash
Nash has assembled some of the most remarkable shooting percentages we will ever see and is as clutch as anyone when the game is on the line. The total absence of any semblence of defense hurts his ranking here
At the 2 - Manu Ginobli
It is hard to laud great players on poor teams, which is why so many of the All NBAers hail from the same top-tier squads. Consideration was given to Andre Iguadola, Allen Iverson, Monta Ellis and the likes, but Manu ranks only behind Lebron and Kobe as the league's best closers; that's gotta be worth something
At the 3 - Hedo Turkoglu
Hard choice over Carmelo, but Turkoglu did it all this year, including serving as the team's late-game threat
At the 4 - Dirk Nowitzki
Very close call over Antawn Jamison; after all, the Wizard's power forward led his team, in the absense Gilbert, to a 5 seed in the East. But Nowitzki never quit this year and has the numbers to back up his case
At the 5 - Carlos Boozer
A minor stretch here, but Boozer is really the Jazz's center. He had another terrific year and the duo of him and Deron brings back memories of the 90s
Honorable Mention
Jamison and Butler, Carmelo and Iverson, Baron Iguadola and Miller (Andre, that is), Chris Bosh, and Baron Davis....get em next year
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
All-NBA selections: There's a New Kid on the Block
I know it's a little late, but here are my regular season All-NBA selections (not counting playoffs), let's see if the Fabs differs . . . also check out last-year's teams below for comparison
All-NBA 1st team (almost all no brainers):
PG-Chris Paul
overall dominance offensively and defensively
SG-Kobe Bryant
finally takes his team to the next level with Pau's help
SF-Lebron James
most difficult one on one matchup since MJ
PF-Kevin Garnett
single-handedly transformed the best team in the league offensively and defensively
C-Dwight Howard
edges Amare because he was more consistent over the course of the season,
although Amare made a huge leap after the Suns aqcuired Shaq
2nd Team:
PG-Steve Nash
still the heart and soul of a great team
SG-Manu Ginobili
carried Spurs all season offensively, a matchup nightmare for any team
SF-Paul Pierce
Best offensive player on the best regular season team in the league, also improved tremendously defensively
PF-Tim Duncan
only second time he has not made 1st team in his 10 year career
C-Amare Stoudemire
see Dwight
3rd Team:
PG-Deron Williams
a big pg who can shoot and play defense, what more could you ask for?
SG-Baron Davis
cheating a little here with position, but I couldn't leave Baron off for Iverson when Baron is so much more valuable to his team, he basically plays like a SG way
SF-Carmelo Anthony
I would argue that Billups is more valuable to his team, but we're out of PG/SG spots, so Melo takes it
PF-Dirk Nowitzki
the clear best/most valuable player on a 51 win team
C- Yao Ming
wanted to put Boozer here, but Yao didn't miss enough time to merit leaving him off the ballot
Toughest Cuts
1. Carlos Boozer: Utah might not be in the playoffs without him
2.Tracy McGrady: Houston definately would not be in the playoffs without him, give him credit for carrying an overachieving/Yaoless Rockets squad
3. Allen Iverson: Still tearing up defenses at the age of 32 and still standing barely 6 ft and weighing barely 165 lbs
4. Chauncey Billups: It's tough omitting everyone from the 59 win pistons, but they're starting 5 is so deep that it's more of a collective effort, no one player is more valuable than the next
check out Hollinger's all defense teams
Below are last years teams for comparison:
2006-07 ALL-NBA FIRST TEAM
| Position | Player, Team (1st Team Votes) | Points |
| Forward | Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas (125) | 634 |
| Forward | Tim Duncan, San Antonio (94) | 573 |
| Center | Amaré Stoudemire, Phoenix (36) | 351 |
| Guard | Steve Nash, Phoenix (129) | 645 |
| Guard | Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers (128) | 643 |
2006-07 ALL-NBA SECOND TEAM
| Position | Player, Team (1st Team Votes) | Points |
| Forward | LeBron James, Cleveland (64) | 494 |
| Forward | Chris Bosh, Toronto (8) | 234 |
| Center | Yao Ming, Houston (38) | 333 |
| Guard | Gilbert Arenas, Washington | 295 |
| Guard | Tracy McGrady, Houston (10) | 278 |
2006-07 ALL-NBA THIRD TEAM
| Position | Player, Team (1st Team Votes) | Points |
| Forward | Kevin Garnett, Minnesota (5) | 225 |
| Forward | Carmelo Anthony, Denver (1) | 142 |
| Center | Dwight Howard, Orlando (1) | 108 |
| Guard | Dwyane Wade, Miami (1) | 241 |
| Guard | Chauncey Billups, Detroit | 86 |
Suns v Spurs
In what is supposed to be a Round 1 battle for the ages, the Suns find themselves down 0-2 heading to Phoenix. On paper, or at least judging these two teams during the regular season, neither is noticeably more talented than the other; but there is one major difference between the two, and the reason San Antonio will triumph: the Head Coach.
Mike Diantoni was completely demolished by Greg Popovich last night, to the point where Diantoni was screaming uncle for the game to finish already. It wasn't even close, and for those people who think coaches have little to do with the outcomes of games needed only to watch Game 2 last night to understand exactly what Pop means to the Spurs.
The turning point came in the third quarter when the Spurs made a furious come back to take a double digit lead. And then, on multiple possessions, the Suns forced the ball to Boris Diaw in the post to exploit a mismatch - either Manu Ginobli or Tony Parker were guarding the much taller forward. Well, you know what? Popovich isn't an idiot, and that was the matchup he would live or die with...and he lived. Do you know why he was ok with pitting a smaller defender on Diaw? Because Diaw is TERRIBLE. This entire season he has been inconsistent and, at times, just awful. He has no shot, a decent - but by no means effective - post game, and no athleticism. So why was he their go-to guy? If Steve Nash was guarding, ohhh,.....no wait, I just tried thinking of a Spur, any Spur, with as little game but who plays as much as Boris Diaw and I couldn't come up with one. Let's say in an important spot the Hornets' Jannero Pargo was defending the Mav's Malik Allen; is it really the best move to force the ball to a mediocre player? Definitely Not. And look at Phoenix, they have one of the most efficient offenses the NBA has ever seen, they run a flawless pick-and-roll, and can get open threes whenever they want - and during their most important possessions of the game they relied on their 7th best player. I can't blame Diaw for this, that is clearly a monumental coaching mistake.
If there was ever a knock on Diantoni's run-and-gun offensive style, it was that it couldn't hold up in half-court pace of the playoffs. Here's Knock No. 2: the regular season is for mismatches; during the playoffs the stars take stage. Remember a few years ago when Lebron James passed out of a triple-team to a wide-open Donyell Marshall who clanked the game-winning attempt. Diantoni could have learned alot from that game.
Watching that game last night made me think 3 things:
1. It is obvious Diantoni has no idea how to coach Shaq in the playoffs. Yes, he made most of the important free throws, but the percentages will always even out; I think much blame here has to go to Steve Kerr for the oversight, but a good coach, like Pat Reilly, would figure it out.
2. There is a reason certain coaches have won the majority of the titles, and if the Western Conference Finals fields the Lakers and Spurs, it will be one of the best coaching matchups ever, and hence one of the greatest series we will ever see.
3. I've always been a huge fan of Diantoni and his rebellious style of offense, but I'm not so sure he's the right coach for this team. I mean, could you imagine Phil Jackson feeding Luke Walton the rock every play just because a smaller guard was on him? You stick to your guns in the playoffs, and his failure to do so should cost him his job.
Mike Diantoni was completely demolished by Greg Popovich last night, to the point where Diantoni was screaming uncle for the game to finish already. It wasn't even close, and for those people who think coaches have little to do with the outcomes of games needed only to watch Game 2 last night to understand exactly what Pop means to the Spurs.
The turning point came in the third quarter when the Spurs made a furious come back to take a double digit lead. And then, on multiple possessions, the Suns forced the ball to Boris Diaw in the post to exploit a mismatch - either Manu Ginobli or Tony Parker were guarding the much taller forward. Well, you know what? Popovich isn't an idiot, and that was the matchup he would live or die with...and he lived. Do you know why he was ok with pitting a smaller defender on Diaw? Because Diaw is TERRIBLE. This entire season he has been inconsistent and, at times, just awful. He has no shot, a decent - but by no means effective - post game, and no athleticism. So why was he their go-to guy? If Steve Nash was guarding, ohhh,.....no wait, I just tried thinking of a Spur, any Spur, with as little game but who plays as much as Boris Diaw and I couldn't come up with one. Let's say in an important spot the Hornets' Jannero Pargo was defending the Mav's Malik Allen; is it really the best move to force the ball to a mediocre player? Definitely Not. And look at Phoenix, they have one of the most efficient offenses the NBA has ever seen, they run a flawless pick-and-roll, and can get open threes whenever they want - and during their most important possessions of the game they relied on their 7th best player. I can't blame Diaw for this, that is clearly a monumental coaching mistake.
If there was ever a knock on Diantoni's run-and-gun offensive style, it was that it couldn't hold up in half-court pace of the playoffs. Here's Knock No. 2: the regular season is for mismatches; during the playoffs the stars take stage. Remember a few years ago when Lebron James passed out of a triple-team to a wide-open Donyell Marshall who clanked the game-winning attempt. Diantoni could have learned alot from that game.
Watching that game last night made me think 3 things:
1. It is obvious Diantoni has no idea how to coach Shaq in the playoffs. Yes, he made most of the important free throws, but the percentages will always even out; I think much blame here has to go to Steve Kerr for the oversight, but a good coach, like Pat Reilly, would figure it out.
2. There is a reason certain coaches have won the majority of the titles, and if the Western Conference Finals fields the Lakers and Spurs, it will be one of the best coaching matchups ever, and hence one of the greatest series we will ever see.
3. I've always been a huge fan of Diantoni and his rebellious style of offense, but I'm not so sure he's the right coach for this team. I mean, could you imagine Phil Jackson feeding Luke Walton the rock every play just because a smaller guard was on him? You stick to your guns in the playoffs, and his failure to do so should cost him his job.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Movie Review
I saw Forgetting Sarah Marshall the other day and just wanted to throw a few thoughts out there in case anyone is interested in checking it out.
First off, the movie was stop debauchery (as opposed to non-stop laughter). It was absolutely brilliant at some points and a little too sappy at many others.
Marshall followed the same basic storyline (ya know, boy meets girl, they fall in love, they get in a fight, they end up in love again) as its two similar predessors The 40 Year Old Virgin and Knocked Up, changing only the cast and setting; but this isn't a bad thing. The film thrives on the performances of its leading males, Jason Segel and the guy who plays the British guy. Segel plays the role with the same subtlety and relatability as Seth Rogen in Knocked Up, but Segel is willing to bare a little more skin in creating one of the all-time great opening scenes.
It's hard not to categorize the film as a chick flick, but it is too crass to fit that mold. The closest thing that comes to mind is Wedding Crashers: They both have hilarious leading men, near-perfect role players, an entertaining love triangle, a love story between two very likeable people, and occasional but unforgettable moments of hilarity.
The major difference: Forgetting Sarah Marshall has the genius known as Paul Rudd.
First off, the movie was stop debauchery (as opposed to non-stop laughter). It was absolutely brilliant at some points and a little too sappy at many others.
Marshall followed the same basic storyline (ya know, boy meets girl, they fall in love, they get in a fight, they end up in love again) as its two similar predessors The 40 Year Old Virgin and Knocked Up, changing only the cast and setting; but this isn't a bad thing. The film thrives on the performances of its leading males, Jason Segel and the guy who plays the British guy. Segel plays the role with the same subtlety and relatability as Seth Rogen in Knocked Up, but Segel is willing to bare a little more skin in creating one of the all-time great opening scenes.
It's hard not to categorize the film as a chick flick, but it is too crass to fit that mold. The closest thing that comes to mind is Wedding Crashers: They both have hilarious leading men, near-perfect role players, an entertaining love triangle, a love story between two very likeable people, and occasional but unforgettable moments of hilarity.
The major difference: Forgetting Sarah Marshall has the genius known as Paul Rudd.
Brief Hockey Thoughts
I do not consider myself much of an NHL fan and I can't remember the last time I watched a regular season game consisting of any team not named the New York Rangers. But then again, I am not much of an MLB fan, or a golf or a tennis fan; that doesn't mean I don't thoroughly enjoy watching my favorite teams/players compete. It's very difficult to watch anything when you don't have a personal attachment to the contest, be it emotionally or financially. The latter is really what, in many ways, makes the NCAA Tournament and to a lesser extent the NFL such riveting television: people have money and/or pride on the line.
As for sports like baseball and hockey, they have an obscure dimension to them that makes them, for the casual fan, hard to grasp and even harder to hold on to. One of the major reasons for the struggle to pay attention to hockey is the lack of a consistent star; in the NBA, if you watch a Cavs game, Lebron will almost all the time score somewhere around 30 points and make at least 2 plays that will amaze you. If you watch a Penguins game, the odds are Sydney Crosby scores one point, maybe 2, and that is all you are going to get. That one play might leave you in more awe than all of Lebron's plays combined, but it is only for an instance, and all too infrequent.
So with all that said, a strange thing happened yesterday: After seeing highlights of Game 6 between the Canadiens and Bruins (which featured 6 goals in the 3rd Period) I decided to tune into Game 7, and I was not disappointed. It was the first non-Rangers NHL game I can remember watching, and all I could think was, If only the regular season was anything like this. I remember watching Olympic hockey about 6 years ago and loving every second of it, and thinking all the NHL had to do was cut the season and number of teams in half and elongate the playoffs using the same Group Format as the Olympics. That would be too good to ignore. Alas, that will never happen, so at least we still have these playoffs. The Bruins lost in a blowout but the game was so much more entertaining than the score.
On that note, I want to discuss a few things about the Rangers, a team that I followed alot closer last year than this year. A trip to MSG and a post-game gathering with the players swung me violently back into fan-mode.
- There are different levels of players to like, different categories of guys you respect and appreciate. At the top are obviously your superstars, your Kobes and Lebrons who carry franchises. Then you have, in no particular order, the hustlers (David Lee), the old-timers (Paul O'Neil), and the gutsy who play through injury (Plaxico Burress). But there's that one group of guys that can transcend even the superstars if they play their cards properly...let's call this the Sean Avery Group.
Sean Avery is one of the most all-around entertaining athletes I have seen in a while, a new-age Mike Tyson who will instigate a fight and then knock you on your ass. There are not many like him. A few athletes make us laugh in press conferences, like Iverson, but it is quite a treat to be brought to tears during the actual game; well that is exactly what Sean Avery did when he pranced in front of Martin Brodeur in Game 5 like a man holding a giant match trying to light a moving candle. What he did may have led to a rule-change, but it also led to the mental demise of one of New York's bitter enemies. Backing it up in the post-game press conference only etched Sean Avery in my mental landscape as an eternal favorite: After fielding a question about why Brodeur refused Avery's handshake, Avery quipped: "Well I put my hand out there, but Fatso refused to shake it."
Well done Sean; if that guy can't attract a casual fan or two, hockey's got a tough road ahead of it.
- As for the actual hockey, the Rangers look great right now. Their star goalie, after letting up just 2 goals in the series' first 2 games, struggled abit in Game 3, and then he surrendered 3 a piece in the next 2 games. An outsider might consider this average play at best, but upon further review, the only things Lundquist couldn't stop was shaky ice and his defensemen's skates. Nearly every goal was excusable, a very good sign for things to come.
As for sports like baseball and hockey, they have an obscure dimension to them that makes them, for the casual fan, hard to grasp and even harder to hold on to. One of the major reasons for the struggle to pay attention to hockey is the lack of a consistent star; in the NBA, if you watch a Cavs game, Lebron will almost all the time score somewhere around 30 points and make at least 2 plays that will amaze you. If you watch a Penguins game, the odds are Sydney Crosby scores one point, maybe 2, and that is all you are going to get. That one play might leave you in more awe than all of Lebron's plays combined, but it is only for an instance, and all too infrequent.
So with all that said, a strange thing happened yesterday: After seeing highlights of Game 6 between the Canadiens and Bruins (which featured 6 goals in the 3rd Period) I decided to tune into Game 7, and I was not disappointed. It was the first non-Rangers NHL game I can remember watching, and all I could think was, If only the regular season was anything like this. I remember watching Olympic hockey about 6 years ago and loving every second of it, and thinking all the NHL had to do was cut the season and number of teams in half and elongate the playoffs using the same Group Format as the Olympics. That would be too good to ignore. Alas, that will never happen, so at least we still have these playoffs. The Bruins lost in a blowout but the game was so much more entertaining than the score.
On that note, I want to discuss a few things about the Rangers, a team that I followed alot closer last year than this year. A trip to MSG and a post-game gathering with the players swung me violently back into fan-mode.
- There are different levels of players to like, different categories of guys you respect and appreciate. At the top are obviously your superstars, your Kobes and Lebrons who carry franchises. Then you have, in no particular order, the hustlers (David Lee), the old-timers (Paul O'Neil), and the gutsy who play through injury (Plaxico Burress). But there's that one group of guys that can transcend even the superstars if they play their cards properly...let's call this the Sean Avery Group.
Sean Avery is one of the most all-around entertaining athletes I have seen in a while, a new-age Mike Tyson who will instigate a fight and then knock you on your ass. There are not many like him. A few athletes make us laugh in press conferences, like Iverson, but it is quite a treat to be brought to tears during the actual game; well that is exactly what Sean Avery did when he pranced in front of Martin Brodeur in Game 5 like a man holding a giant match trying to light a moving candle. What he did may have led to a rule-change, but it also led to the mental demise of one of New York's bitter enemies. Backing it up in the post-game press conference only etched Sean Avery in my mental landscape as an eternal favorite: After fielding a question about why Brodeur refused Avery's handshake, Avery quipped: "Well I put my hand out there, but Fatso refused to shake it."
Well done Sean; if that guy can't attract a casual fan or two, hockey's got a tough road ahead of it.
- As for the actual hockey, the Rangers look great right now. Their star goalie, after letting up just 2 goals in the series' first 2 games, struggled abit in Game 3, and then he surrendered 3 a piece in the next 2 games. An outsider might consider this average play at best, but upon further review, the only things Lundquist couldn't stop was shaky ice and his defensemen's skates. Nearly every goal was excusable, a very good sign for things to come.
Few Thoughts About the Weekend
I missed most of the NBA Playoff games over the weekend due to Jewish holiday obligations, but from what I did see and from some highlights, a few things stood out:
- What the hell is wrong with the Pistons? People can blame Flip Saunders all they want, but this clearly comes down to some sort of mentality resonating through players minds that I'm not sure anyone less than Phil Jackson could tame. They are alot like Seinfeld at the end of their run, ya know, how the show was so great for a long time but then towards the end thought they could create garbage and people would laugh. That's the Pistons right now; I've never seen a team so confident from not winning anything in 5 years. I can picture Jerry's smirk in some of the final episodes, thinking to himself, this stuff is great...but it really wasn't. The Pistons are not going to be that great until they regain that edge that team's strive for, you know that edge I'm referring to, the one that takes .2 seconds to surface if one ESPN analyst publicly denounces your team's chances. Until either the Pistons grow up a little or experts begin hopping off the bandwagon, they're in for some trouble.
That said, if they can survive these first two rounds and meet the Celtics in the Conference Semis, they will be prohibitive underdogs which may actually spark a little interest in them, and I could envision an upset.
- I thought the Wizards would be a tough out in these playoffs, but the way it's gone so far, it looks like they're just a speed bump for the Cavs on their way to meet the 60 foot brick wall that is the Celtics. The Wizards just look a little off, like they don't have an identity since Gilbert came back to the lineup, and when there is even a shred of confusion or miscommunication, Lebron will tear you apart. The only thing the Wizards have been consistent in doing is violently punishing Lebron.
- I commented on the ESPN NBA blog Truehoop a couple of months ago that the Rockets had no chance in the playoffs, after seeing the Celtics manhandle them to snap their 22 game win streak. My reasons were that the Celtics exploited the Rockets and showed teams how to beat them - that is, contain McGrady and make him dish. It was the worst Rockets regular season defeat of the year, for that reason alone. Now, the Jazz are doing just that, and Houston kept relying on off-balance hook shots from Luis Scola during a 4th quarter that featured exactly one point from T-Mac.
I think it has been overlooked that a team that won 22 straight games in the regular season is poised to get swept out of the first round....again. What a sad ending to a superb regular season.
- What the hell is wrong with the Pistons? People can blame Flip Saunders all they want, but this clearly comes down to some sort of mentality resonating through players minds that I'm not sure anyone less than Phil Jackson could tame. They are alot like Seinfeld at the end of their run, ya know, how the show was so great for a long time but then towards the end thought they could create garbage and people would laugh. That's the Pistons right now; I've never seen a team so confident from not winning anything in 5 years. I can picture Jerry's smirk in some of the final episodes, thinking to himself, this stuff is great...but it really wasn't. The Pistons are not going to be that great until they regain that edge that team's strive for, you know that edge I'm referring to, the one that takes .2 seconds to surface if one ESPN analyst publicly denounces your team's chances. Until either the Pistons grow up a little or experts begin hopping off the bandwagon, they're in for some trouble.
That said, if they can survive these first two rounds and meet the Celtics in the Conference Semis, they will be prohibitive underdogs which may actually spark a little interest in them, and I could envision an upset.
- I thought the Wizards would be a tough out in these playoffs, but the way it's gone so far, it looks like they're just a speed bump for the Cavs on their way to meet the 60 foot brick wall that is the Celtics. The Wizards just look a little off, like they don't have an identity since Gilbert came back to the lineup, and when there is even a shred of confusion or miscommunication, Lebron will tear you apart. The only thing the Wizards have been consistent in doing is violently punishing Lebron.
- I commented on the ESPN NBA blog Truehoop a couple of months ago that the Rockets had no chance in the playoffs, after seeing the Celtics manhandle them to snap their 22 game win streak. My reasons were that the Celtics exploited the Rockets and showed teams how to beat them - that is, contain McGrady and make him dish. It was the worst Rockets regular season defeat of the year, for that reason alone. Now, the Jazz are doing just that, and Houston kept relying on off-balance hook shots from Luis Scola during a 4th quarter that featured exactly one point from T-Mac.
I think it has been overlooked that a team that won 22 straight games in the regular season is poised to get swept out of the first round....again. What a sad ending to a superb regular season.
Friday, April 18, 2008
NBA Playoffs
They're back baby, and the Western Seeds are finally set, so let's get to some predictions, starting out West:
Lakers v Nuggets
The only true gimme series of any series to be played this year in the Western playoffs. The Nuggets on paper would be favored in this one, but after watching them for a season it's a wonder they even made the playoffs. This team has been downright ugly at different times this year it's impossible to think they'll put together a run to take down the West's top seed. Isn't it amazing that 4 of the five Nuggets starters were drafted 1st, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in in their respective drafts and they can't crack the first round? Goes to show how far a coach and some chemistry will get you in this league.
Lakers in 5
Hornets v Mavericks
Here is the NBA's version of the 12-5 that everyone's getting slobbery over...the thing is, I just don't see it. Ya, the Mavs have the experience and the knowledge and just beat the Hornets, but did no one watch the other 81 games of the regular season? The Hornets are a good freakin team, from top to bottom, and if they have any weakness - lacking a big time slashing shooting guard - it won't be exploited by the Mavs. Chris Paul will make Jason Kidd wish he was on the golf course with Richard Jefferson and I don't think Dirk has enough confidence in his teammates to pass the ball in crunch time. I see another flameout here.
Hornets in 6
Spurs v Suns
Now here is the Super Bowl of the first round, the Yankees Red Sox of the past few years. The Suns are in exponentially better shape to take down the Spurs than they were at any point in the past few seasons. They are clicking at the right time and they will always have one of the most devestating playoff closers in Steve Nash. Even though Tony Parker and Manu run wild in this one, it won't be enough because Duncan will be slowed considerably by that big guy on the Suns...and who is guarding Amare???
Suns in 7
Rockets v Jazz
The Fredo of the first round, a not-as-hyped series that could turn out to be the most competetive if not the most entertaining (even though both of those labels should accompany the Spurs Suns series). The Rockets, against my better judgment, have rebounded from their post-winning streak losing streak and are playing good ball; as are the Jazz. This is a tough one to predict because there are so many different factors, but I think Rafer Alston missing a few games will kill the Rockets. As will Deron Williams, for that reason.
Jazz in 7
Lakers v Nuggets
The only true gimme series of any series to be played this year in the Western playoffs. The Nuggets on paper would be favored in this one, but after watching them for a season it's a wonder they even made the playoffs. This team has been downright ugly at different times this year it's impossible to think they'll put together a run to take down the West's top seed. Isn't it amazing that 4 of the five Nuggets starters were drafted 1st, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in in their respective drafts and they can't crack the first round? Goes to show how far a coach and some chemistry will get you in this league.
Lakers in 5
Hornets v Mavericks
Here is the NBA's version of the 12-5 that everyone's getting slobbery over...the thing is, I just don't see it. Ya, the Mavs have the experience and the knowledge and just beat the Hornets, but did no one watch the other 81 games of the regular season? The Hornets are a good freakin team, from top to bottom, and if they have any weakness - lacking a big time slashing shooting guard - it won't be exploited by the Mavs. Chris Paul will make Jason Kidd wish he was on the golf course with Richard Jefferson and I don't think Dirk has enough confidence in his teammates to pass the ball in crunch time. I see another flameout here.
Hornets in 6
Spurs v Suns
Now here is the Super Bowl of the first round, the Yankees Red Sox of the past few years. The Suns are in exponentially better shape to take down the Spurs than they were at any point in the past few seasons. They are clicking at the right time and they will always have one of the most devestating playoff closers in Steve Nash. Even though Tony Parker and Manu run wild in this one, it won't be enough because Duncan will be slowed considerably by that big guy on the Suns...and who is guarding Amare???
Suns in 7
Rockets v Jazz
The Fredo of the first round, a not-as-hyped series that could turn out to be the most competetive if not the most entertaining (even though both of those labels should accompany the Spurs Suns series). The Rockets, against my better judgment, have rebounded from their post-winning streak losing streak and are playing good ball; as are the Jazz. This is a tough one to predict because there are so many different factors, but I think Rafer Alston missing a few games will kill the Rockets. As will Deron Williams, for that reason.
Jazz in 7
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Quick Notes
1. The Masters
The Masters was set up so perfectly for Tiger Woods to roar back on the final day from 6 behind and capture his 5th Green Jacket, but the drama really never came. And it had nothing to do with great play from the leader, Trevor Immelman, and everything to do with Tiger simply failing to dazzle. The stage was set for Tiger to go low to win the tournament and I'm sure he thought he'd need more than only a 68 to win the title. But on Sunday, a day no longer associated only with God but now with Tiger as well, Tiger was average. Granted, there was a handfull of guys who shot under par during the 4th Round and none of them were in contention, but this is Tiger Woods. We have come to expect greatness from him, and in Majors prior he has shown signs of mediocrity. In last year's US Open he had a chance on Sunday to pass Angel Cabrera, and in last year's Masters he finished runner-up to Zach Johnson. If there is one fault with Tiger's career it is that he has never won a Major when trailing heading into the final round. I noted earlier that Tiger would sooner miss the cut than finish 2nd; but Tiger has struggled when entering round 4 off the pace, and until he finds a way to conquer those devestating Major courses on Sunday, he will have to settle for second place finishes.
2. The NBA Playoffs are about to start and if there's anything that is certain, it's that there will be 4 can't-miss series on the West and maybe one in the East, which is really a shame given that the first round lasts 2 weeks. The Lakers secured the top spot last night but not even they are a given to reach the second round, especially if they have to face the Mavs in the Round 1. The Western Playoffs will be a downright doozy, the headliner obviously being Suns Spurs if things stay how they are right now. That is a matchpup for the ages now that The Man Hired To Stop Tim Duncan is playing great basketball at the right time. There are legitmately 6 teams that could come out of the West if the chips fall properly, with the Mavs and Nuggets being the only two squads I couldn't see reaching the finals against the Celtics. But other than that, and probably the Rockets who lack the necessary firepower, the West is wide open. I had the Spurs winning it, but just like picking USC to reach the Final Four, it's increasingly difficult to pick a team that has to play a great team in every round. Whoever squares off against the Nuggets in Round 1 gets my vote to reach the Finals...teams need a gimme series in the playoffs, and that's the only one I see.
3. Who saw the Office or 30 Rock last week? I was kinda hoping they were still on strike throughout both episodes. So weak. So awkward. So lacking of funny moments. I thought the whole gimmick about the Office was that it was supposed to resemble a reality series; well how the hell did cameras get in Michael's condo. Stick to your guns and quit trying to find new ways to make people laugh...give me a few lines from Dwight and Creed and believe me, the laughs will come.
The Masters was set up so perfectly for Tiger Woods to roar back on the final day from 6 behind and capture his 5th Green Jacket, but the drama really never came. And it had nothing to do with great play from the leader, Trevor Immelman, and everything to do with Tiger simply failing to dazzle. The stage was set for Tiger to go low to win the tournament and I'm sure he thought he'd need more than only a 68 to win the title. But on Sunday, a day no longer associated only with God but now with Tiger as well, Tiger was average. Granted, there was a handfull of guys who shot under par during the 4th Round and none of them were in contention, but this is Tiger Woods. We have come to expect greatness from him, and in Majors prior he has shown signs of mediocrity. In last year's US Open he had a chance on Sunday to pass Angel Cabrera, and in last year's Masters he finished runner-up to Zach Johnson. If there is one fault with Tiger's career it is that he has never won a Major when trailing heading into the final round. I noted earlier that Tiger would sooner miss the cut than finish 2nd; but Tiger has struggled when entering round 4 off the pace, and until he finds a way to conquer those devestating Major courses on Sunday, he will have to settle for second place finishes.
2. The NBA Playoffs are about to start and if there's anything that is certain, it's that there will be 4 can't-miss series on the West and maybe one in the East, which is really a shame given that the first round lasts 2 weeks. The Lakers secured the top spot last night but not even they are a given to reach the second round, especially if they have to face the Mavs in the Round 1. The Western Playoffs will be a downright doozy, the headliner obviously being Suns Spurs if things stay how they are right now. That is a matchpup for the ages now that The Man Hired To Stop Tim Duncan is playing great basketball at the right time. There are legitmately 6 teams that could come out of the West if the chips fall properly, with the Mavs and Nuggets being the only two squads I couldn't see reaching the finals against the Celtics. But other than that, and probably the Rockets who lack the necessary firepower, the West is wide open. I had the Spurs winning it, but just like picking USC to reach the Final Four, it's increasingly difficult to pick a team that has to play a great team in every round. Whoever squares off against the Nuggets in Round 1 gets my vote to reach the Finals...teams need a gimme series in the playoffs, and that's the only one I see.
3. Who saw the Office or 30 Rock last week? I was kinda hoping they were still on strike throughout both episodes. So weak. So awkward. So lacking of funny moments. I thought the whole gimmick about the Office was that it was supposed to resemble a reality series; well how the hell did cameras get in Michael's condo. Stick to your guns and quit trying to find new ways to make people laugh...give me a few lines from Dwight and Creed and believe me, the laughs will come.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
One Game Too Late
What a Championship it was last night, and what a way to lose a game...
I had free throws killing the Tigers in their two previous games because of the abilities of the two teams they faced, Texas and UCLA. But I didn't think talent would be the issue against the Jayhawks last night and I thought Memphis would cruise to an easy win...and that's exactly what they were on their way to doing until all hell broke loose.
Even though I had Kansas winning it all in my bracket, that choice had more to do with the "If I hit I win" mentality than actually believing this team was good. I mean, what was the last great college basketball team that didn't have a true go-to-guy. This team was well-rounded and deep, but I didn't pick them because of stats like these: 4 guys averaged in double figures for the year, none at 14 points or higher; Rush and Chalmers, their two best players and leading scorers, did not amass 20 points in consecutive games ALL YEAR; and they barely beat a Davidson team that was smaller, slower, and whose best player was having an off-day. I just didn't see them staying in this game, let alone winning it.
But then it happened, just like it was written up. The Tigers couldn't avoid their free-throw woes at the most important time of the season. I compared this team to the Giants, in that the two teams had blatant shortcomings in two key aspects of their games, and there would come a time when those flaws reveal themselves. The hope is that they don't surface in a championship game. Well, just like the Tigers, the Giants fell victim to their subpar kicker. Unlike the Tigers, the Giants were able to maintain composure and triumph in overtime. If only CDR was given the same chance at redemption that Lawrence Tynes was blessed with.
That said, you can't contribute the loss solely to the Tigers' free-throw shooting. There was another noticeable difference between the teams that may have served as a blessing in disguise for the Jayhawks. They were less talented, but that is what saved them in overtime when they ran a flawless offense and scored three quick buckets to all but seal the game. The Tigers, meanwhile, relied too much on their top three guys. By the time overtime came around, Joey Dorsey had fouled out, Derrick Rose was limping and beaten, and CDR's confidence was crushed. A betting man would have wagered his house on Kansas dominating the overtime period. So, looking back on it now, it was Memphis' pregame advantage that really became their downfall, as Kansas perfectly executed down the stretch to grab their 3rd National Title.
I had free throws killing the Tigers in their two previous games because of the abilities of the two teams they faced, Texas and UCLA. But I didn't think talent would be the issue against the Jayhawks last night and I thought Memphis would cruise to an easy win...and that's exactly what they were on their way to doing until all hell broke loose.
Even though I had Kansas winning it all in my bracket, that choice had more to do with the "If I hit I win" mentality than actually believing this team was good. I mean, what was the last great college basketball team that didn't have a true go-to-guy. This team was well-rounded and deep, but I didn't pick them because of stats like these: 4 guys averaged in double figures for the year, none at 14 points or higher; Rush and Chalmers, their two best players and leading scorers, did not amass 20 points in consecutive games ALL YEAR; and they barely beat a Davidson team that was smaller, slower, and whose best player was having an off-day. I just didn't see them staying in this game, let alone winning it.
But then it happened, just like it was written up. The Tigers couldn't avoid their free-throw woes at the most important time of the season. I compared this team to the Giants, in that the two teams had blatant shortcomings in two key aspects of their games, and there would come a time when those flaws reveal themselves. The hope is that they don't surface in a championship game. Well, just like the Tigers, the Giants fell victim to their subpar kicker. Unlike the Tigers, the Giants were able to maintain composure and triumph in overtime. If only CDR was given the same chance at redemption that Lawrence Tynes was blessed with.
That said, you can't contribute the loss solely to the Tigers' free-throw shooting. There was another noticeable difference between the teams that may have served as a blessing in disguise for the Jayhawks. They were less talented, but that is what saved them in overtime when they ran a flawless offense and scored three quick buckets to all but seal the game. The Tigers, meanwhile, relied too much on their top three guys. By the time overtime came around, Joey Dorsey had fouled out, Derrick Rose was limping and beaten, and CDR's confidence was crushed. A betting man would have wagered his house on Kansas dominating the overtime period. So, looking back on it now, it was Memphis' pregame advantage that really became their downfall, as Kansas perfectly executed down the stretch to grab their 3rd National Title.
Monday, April 7, 2008
The Masters Coming Up
The Masters starts this Thursday so I figured now would be a good time to offer some thoughts on Tiger Woods
I have been a huge fan of Woods for a long time now, much like millions of other Americans, but I think the magnitude of what he is doing may be overlooked because of the sport he chooses. There are very few athletes over the past few decades who have dominated their sports to the extent that Tiger has, from both a statistical and a winning standpoint.
Michael Jordan is one of the greatest American athletes of all-time, but he did not set a statitsical standard in the NBA; that was set long before by Wilt, Oscar, and Kareem. Taking nothing away from MJ's absurd streak of championships, it is often difficult to assess exactly how much of the credit belongs to him because he played a team sport with a Hall of Fame coach and another All-Timer. While I in no way think that Jordan is any less of an athlete, the neverending debates we hear everyday about whether Kobe or Lebron has a better supporting cast just shows that in team sports, it cannot be all about one player.
Unless, of course, you are Wayne Gretzky or Babe Ruth, who are the only athletes in sports history to crush prior records while winning championships (Had Wilt won more titles, he'd be on that list; had MJ averaged 50 a game during his prime, he'd be on the list). For baseball it is easier to compare players because the game is, in essence, one-on-one.
So where would Tiger rank in comparison to the other legends of sport? First we have to consider the magnitude of what Tiger has done and dispel one criticism of his career.
The major difference between winning championships in golf or tennis, as oppose to winning in the major team sports, is the idea of "peaking." Every year we see teams catch fire in the regular season and then fade in the playoffs. Just this year alone the following teams peaked in the regular season and then struggled in the post-season: Tennessee men's basketball, the Cowboys, the Mets, the Rockets, and, most epically, the Patriots. Then there are those teams that peaked at the right time: the Spurs, the Giants, Kansas and, most epically, the Rockies. As I noted before, only the truly great teams peak consitently come playoff-time (What does it say about the true merit of the Rockies making the World Series that they got off to a slow-start this year? Maybe they just weren't that good to begin with...)
Well, let's get back to golf. The reason winning the Grand Slam, all 4 majors in one calender year, is so difficult has less to do with the competition of the field or the severity of the golf course than to do with the near-impossible task of performing at your highest capable level on 4 separate occasions. Now combine this with the fact that golf is not one-on-one but Man v Field and Man v Nature and the result is a daunting notion. No golfer in the modern era has approached the sort of dominance Tiger has because golf is one of the hardest sports to dominate. For every Major victory Jack Nicklaus has, he has a 2nd place finish. That is as telling a statistic as any. The greatest golfer of all time, as it stands now, had a chance at doubling his record for Major wins but time and again fell victim to golf's challanges. I've heard experts say that Nicklaus's 19 Major runner-ups is an amazing feat as well. Well, who thinks Tiger will approach that number? He would sooner finish in 30th than accept a runner-up when the title was in reach.
Another bash on Tiger is the lack of competition present in golf right now. Nicklaus had Palmer, Watson, Player, and the likes. To that I say, it's not the lack of talent, but the mental strain Tiger has put on anyone challenging him in tournaments. What players will actually claim to be competing for first if Woods were in the field. Only the brash. What happened to the big 4 of Mickelson, Vijay, Goosen, and Els capable of stepping up to Tiger. That hasn't worked out too well. Els just recently won his first tournament in something like 4 years. 4 years!! That is not testament to a lack of skill, but to a culture in which trying to win has become such a mental and physical strain when opposing Woods that a top-5 paycheck would do just fine.
At the end of the day, it's always going to be difficult to compare success in golf with success in the major sports because of the idea that golf is more a game than a sport. But what he is doing is more impressive than any other accomplishments we have seen, and, when in 40 years ESPN makes a Sports Century and a Half List, Tiger's name should be resting firmly next to the Number 1 Slot, ahead of, respectively, Ruth, Jordan, Gretzky, and Ali.
The Final Four
I had a few thoughts about the first round of the Final Four. Let's look past the fact that I was dead wrong on both of my predictions and try to understand how and why the two favorites went down so easily.
The first game, Memphis v UCLA, was a simple case of the triump of athleticism. I don't know how I missed it, but we should have at least considered the possibility that Kevin Love could be contained by an opponent of Joey Dorsey's unique skill set. Love was limited considerably in a 12 point effort and most of the credit has to go to Dorsey for bodying up Love and never letting him get comfortable. -- Just a quick side note, for anyone who concludes from that one game that Love won't be a great pro because he won't succeed going up against bigger, stronger NBA players every night, shame on them; Dorsey is one-of-a-kind, he is gigantic, he reminds me of Ben Wallace in his prime....and there are very few NBA players out there who try that hard on a given night, let alone who have a similar body as Dorsey. Love will be just fine. -- But back to the game, the fact that, like UNC, UCLA had no alternative option past their big. Darren Collison had the worst game of his career and the other guys on UCLA just weren't game-changers. Memphis, on the other hand, had 2 superstars in Rose and CDR and an overlooked and underrated supporting cast.
Alot of people had this team in similar company as St. Joe's of a few years ago, when they had Jameer Nelson and Delonte West, mainly because both teams hailed from mid-Majors and experts thought the grind of playing consecutive games against the nation's best in the NCAA Tournament would eventually wear them out. But Memphis simply has too much talent to get worn out. At some point, talent will best strength of schedule as a team's most telling characteristic. After Memphis lost a heartbreaker to Tennessee, many said they were just products of a weak schedule. What we do forget was that Tennessee, another one of the most talented teams in the country, was at their season's peak when they barely clipped Memphis. Memphis is peaking now, though, and not even the class of the Pac-10 could stand up to the Tigers from Conference USA.
The second game, UNC v Kansas, had much of the same to say as the previous game. This game was won by superior athleticism and a great defensive game plan compliments of Bill Self. I spoke at length about how Memphis' glaring weakness, their free-throw shooting, would cost them at some point; I picked the wrong weakness. It was UNC's struggles from the 3-point line that cost them dearly in this game. They shot 5-24 (!!) from 3, many of those misses coming during an impressive comeback from 26 point deficit in the first half. And when it looked like UNC was right back in it, Kansas reestablished control the way they had in the first half, by pushing the ball up the floor and scoring easy buckets.
The Jayhawks also got a tremendous boost from its bench, including a truly-dominating, if not brief, performance by Cole Aldrich, who in 16 minutes had 8 points, 7 boards and 4 blocks. The 3-point-per-game-averager frustrated Tyler Hansbrough on the block, at one time ripping an offensive rebound from Psycho T's hands. Everytime Hansbrough touched the ball he was immediately collapsed upon by the Kansas defense and double, or even triple, teamed. Kansas had a game plan that they recognized from tape: when Hansbrough gets the ball inside, no matter how many bodies are on him, he's going up with it. He does not pass out of the post, and the Jayhawks drew upon that knowledge to humble the National Player of the Year. It took a very well-executed gameplan for Kansas to reach the finals.
The prediction: Memphis has too much talent for the Jayhawks. While they are both athletic, the Tigers have more skill to accompany the athleticism which will put them over the top. The Jayhawks don't have the size to match up with the Tigers 3 big guards. Russell Robinson, at 6'1, will get stuck having to guard someone 3-5 inches taller than him; let's just hope he's not on Derrick Rose or this one could be over quickly.
Tigers by 8
The first game, Memphis v UCLA, was a simple case of the triump of athleticism. I don't know how I missed it, but we should have at least considered the possibility that Kevin Love could be contained by an opponent of Joey Dorsey's unique skill set. Love was limited considerably in a 12 point effort and most of the credit has to go to Dorsey for bodying up Love and never letting him get comfortable. -- Just a quick side note, for anyone who concludes from that one game that Love won't be a great pro because he won't succeed going up against bigger, stronger NBA players every night, shame on them; Dorsey is one-of-a-kind, he is gigantic, he reminds me of Ben Wallace in his prime....and there are very few NBA players out there who try that hard on a given night, let alone who have a similar body as Dorsey. Love will be just fine. -- But back to the game, the fact that, like UNC, UCLA had no alternative option past their big. Darren Collison had the worst game of his career and the other guys on UCLA just weren't game-changers. Memphis, on the other hand, had 2 superstars in Rose and CDR and an overlooked and underrated supporting cast.
Alot of people had this team in similar company as St. Joe's of a few years ago, when they had Jameer Nelson and Delonte West, mainly because both teams hailed from mid-Majors and experts thought the grind of playing consecutive games against the nation's best in the NCAA Tournament would eventually wear them out. But Memphis simply has too much talent to get worn out. At some point, talent will best strength of schedule as a team's most telling characteristic. After Memphis lost a heartbreaker to Tennessee, many said they were just products of a weak schedule. What we do forget was that Tennessee, another one of the most talented teams in the country, was at their season's peak when they barely clipped Memphis. Memphis is peaking now, though, and not even the class of the Pac-10 could stand up to the Tigers from Conference USA.
The second game, UNC v Kansas, had much of the same to say as the previous game. This game was won by superior athleticism and a great defensive game plan compliments of Bill Self. I spoke at length about how Memphis' glaring weakness, their free-throw shooting, would cost them at some point; I picked the wrong weakness. It was UNC's struggles from the 3-point line that cost them dearly in this game. They shot 5-24 (!!) from 3, many of those misses coming during an impressive comeback from 26 point deficit in the first half. And when it looked like UNC was right back in it, Kansas reestablished control the way they had in the first half, by pushing the ball up the floor and scoring easy buckets.
The Jayhawks also got a tremendous boost from its bench, including a truly-dominating, if not brief, performance by Cole Aldrich, who in 16 minutes had 8 points, 7 boards and 4 blocks. The 3-point-per-game-averager frustrated Tyler Hansbrough on the block, at one time ripping an offensive rebound from Psycho T's hands. Everytime Hansbrough touched the ball he was immediately collapsed upon by the Kansas defense and double, or even triple, teamed. Kansas had a game plan that they recognized from tape: when Hansbrough gets the ball inside, no matter how many bodies are on him, he's going up with it. He does not pass out of the post, and the Jayhawks drew upon that knowledge to humble the National Player of the Year. It took a very well-executed gameplan for Kansas to reach the finals.
The prediction: Memphis has too much talent for the Jayhawks. While they are both athletic, the Tigers have more skill to accompany the athleticism which will put them over the top. The Jayhawks don't have the size to match up with the Tigers 3 big guards. Russell Robinson, at 6'1, will get stuck having to guard someone 3-5 inches taller than him; let's just hope he's not on Derrick Rose or this one could be over quickly.
Tigers by 8
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Friday, April 4, 2008
NCAA Tournament Predictions
With the Final Four kicking off in just over 24 hours, it's time to reveal my predictions:
Memphis v UCLA
I wrote before that if Memphis ever involved itself in a tight game with a good team their weaknesses would be highlighted. Well, Tigers, let me introduce you to the Bruins. UCLA is the best team Memphis will face all year, and the Bruins' combination of size and athleticism will be too much for the Tigers to handle. The two best freshmen in the game will be competing in this one (I'm not on the Beasley bandwagon) so, in that regard, it's going to be quite a pleasure to watch. Love and Rose are about as different as basketball players get; Rose succeeds because of his freakish hops and speed while Love succeeds because of his body positioning and awareness. But both players get it done, and if they go head-to-head down the stretch, this game could be an epic one. In the end though, Memphis will miss just enough free throws and Love will make just enough clutch plays.
UCLA by 4
Kansas v UNC
In one of the most talented Final Fours in a long time - that's what you get with 4 Ones making it - Kansas doesn't quite seem to fit in the picture. They have a great squad with depth and skill, they just don't have that gamechanger that the other teams possess. I think this game would have been better had Davidson upended Kansas in the regional and UNC had to face Steph Curry and Co. I think this game is going to be pretty ho-hum. As much as I still don't buy into all the UNC hype, they are far better than a Kansas team that looked lost for a while against Davidson last weekend.
UNC by 12
I tried my hardest to go the Fabiani route and pick Memphis v Kansas, I just don't see it happening. UCLA is the best team in the country right now and Kansas isn't good enough to beat UNC. It's pretty simple really.
Memphis v UCLA
I wrote before that if Memphis ever involved itself in a tight game with a good team their weaknesses would be highlighted. Well, Tigers, let me introduce you to the Bruins. UCLA is the best team Memphis will face all year, and the Bruins' combination of size and athleticism will be too much for the Tigers to handle. The two best freshmen in the game will be competing in this one (I'm not on the Beasley bandwagon) so, in that regard, it's going to be quite a pleasure to watch. Love and Rose are about as different as basketball players get; Rose succeeds because of his freakish hops and speed while Love succeeds because of his body positioning and awareness. But both players get it done, and if they go head-to-head down the stretch, this game could be an epic one. In the end though, Memphis will miss just enough free throws and Love will make just enough clutch plays.
UCLA by 4
Kansas v UNC
In one of the most talented Final Fours in a long time - that's what you get with 4 Ones making it - Kansas doesn't quite seem to fit in the picture. They have a great squad with depth and skill, they just don't have that gamechanger that the other teams possess. I think this game would have been better had Davidson upended Kansas in the regional and UNC had to face Steph Curry and Co. I think this game is going to be pretty ho-hum. As much as I still don't buy into all the UNC hype, they are far better than a Kansas team that looked lost for a while against Davidson last weekend.
UNC by 12
I tried my hardest to go the Fabiani route and pick Memphis v Kansas, I just don't see it happening. UCLA is the best team in the country right now and Kansas isn't good enough to beat UNC. It's pretty simple really.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
The Year of the Insider
If this year has proved anything to the observing public, it's that the Suits in control of our precious industries don't operate on a level playing field. This has happened time and again, from minor infractions to major crimes, and it's time to acknowledge that something is a little off about the current system. It applies to both sports (my area of "expertise") and, more importantly, in the real world of politics and economics. I don't have a very firm grasp on the latter issues, but I'll take my shots.
The most obvious transgressions recognized by the public are the ones that involve scrutiny and punishment. Bill Belichik and Eliot Spitzer may have less in common than me and my Aunt Sylvia, but their wrongdoings perfectly illustrate the abuse of power. The common bond is the belief that they were above the law and invulnerable to detection. That said, I want to discuss a more subtle, legal, but indefensible type of abuse.
Much has been made of the decline of the economy over the past year or so, but as destructive as the monumental collapse of some of our most important banks has been, it's hard to ignore the fact that they deserved the backlash. They took advantage of a flawed system and manipulated an asymetrical well of information to try and make that extra buck. Often times, in the past at least, those types of decisions paid off, but just like a drunk gambler, you have to know when to quit, or at least start lowering your bets. I want to relate that type of manipulation and exploitation to the world of sports.
As Epstizz so elegantly discussed earlier, Danny Ainge, in the span of a few days, changed a culture in Boston. But how is it that he has the wits and tact to pull off such a significant deal when other teams could not. I mean, did no other GM covet Kevin Garnett the way Ainge did? Was there really no other GM out there willing to part ways with something more than the package of Al Jefferson and a few role players? I find it very hard to believe. So maybe it wasn't Ainge's superior negotiating skill but an abuse of his situation. As convincing as any argument can be, I will never believe that Ainge actually thought that trade was an even one. An all-timer with a few elite years left for a possible All-Star and a few scrubs? No, Ainge manipulated the information-edge he had over everyone else. Ainge, though, isn't regarded as immoral; he's just a savvy businessman.
There is another person contaminating our sports world, that's right, 60 Minutes very own Jose Canseco. In a world where philanthropists take a backseat to philanderers, Jose Canseco is the cream of the media crop. Everyone wants a piece of him. He is the Joseph McCarthy of the 21st Century.
If he were a police officer, he would steal a kilogram of heroin from the evidence room, distribute it to non-addicts in his apartment and then tell the police his housemates were criminals. Sounds to me like entrapment...too bad entrapment doesn't exist in the court of social laws and logic. He has blackmailed ball players - finance my film or prepare to become a steriod user - and ignored confidences. All for the sake of his bank account. Had he been a better athlete with a longer career, maybe the steroid era continues on with Barry Bonds as the only casualty. But he needs more money, and the only concievable method is violating unwritten rules and abusing his databank of information.
So, I say, if the Subprime Debacle had anything to say about Karma (more likely with stupidity, but we can still hope), I'm bracing myself for the day you inherit the wind.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Celtics > Knicks
If you haven't seen, the Celtics just eclipsed 60 wins, their biggest win total in 22 years, 1986, the last year they won the championship, a 67 win team, one of the best in league history. Although unlikely, the Celtics can match this win total by winning out their remaining games. This will surely begin a fascinating era in the history of Boston sports, the Reign of Garnett.
Even before Danny Ainge was given the unenviable task of breathing life back into a dying team in the post-Bird era, he had single handedly destroyed everything he had been in charge of. Who can forget the trade of (basically) Brandon Roy for Sebastian Telfair? Or the acquisition of Raef LaFrentz? Or the signing of Brian Scalabrine to a 5 year extension at $3 mill a year?
So obviously this made Garnett the perfect fit for the Celtics. But what will we really remember about Garnetts's team?
God Bless Danny Ainge and Kevin Garnett
The Donnie Walsh Era
If you haven't seen, the Knick just hired Donnie Walsh as President of the team. This will surely end a fascinating era in the history of New York sports, the Reign of Isaiah.
Even before Mr Thomas was given the unenviable task of breathing life back into a dying team in the post-Van Gundy era, he had single handedly destroyed everything he had been in charge of. So obviously this made him the perfect fit for the Knicks. But what will we really remember about Thomas's team?
1. My friends' numerous run-ins with Eddy Curry at the local diner at 2 am. Now I'm no nutritionist, but I'm assuming those late-night cheeseburgers didn't do much to strengthen Curry's muscle mass. But who knows, maybe Thomas hired Ronald McDonald's health advisor.
2. Nate Robinson's many pick-up basketball games at the local New York Sports Club to prove to his fans that, even if he can't cut it in the NBA, he's damn good when being guarded by a 5'4 balding accountant. One story comes to mind, told to me by The Fab Files Enemy No. 2 Danny Wolffffe. A few weeks ago, the Knicks were down by 4 with just seconds left when Nate Robinson chucked up a deep three as the buzzer sounded. Forgetting the fact that the shot had no bearing on the outcome of the game, good ol' Nate-Dog shouted at the refs that the shot better be counted. "Count dat! Count dat!" Nate wanted those 3 extra points to show up in the box score...oh the winning attitude.
3. Let's not forget Stephon Marbury's oft-forgotten but outrageously epic threat to blackmail once-close-pal Isaiah in the media. I mean, WHO DOES THAT? I always thought blackmail was illegal, but there's Starbury, going off on some reporter about how he has dirt on Thomas. How does Jose Canseco get a 60 Minutes segment and Steph gets page 14 of the Daily News? Silver-lining: Marbury might be the most entertaining off-the-field New York athlete since Mike Tyson.
Let's just try to forget that the last 5 years ever happened, and maybe try to convince the owner of Coach Diner to explain to Mr Curry that they're all out of fries, but how would egg whites and wheat toast sound.
God Bless Donnie Walsh
Even before Mr Thomas was given the unenviable task of breathing life back into a dying team in the post-Van Gundy era, he had single handedly destroyed everything he had been in charge of. So obviously this made him the perfect fit for the Knicks. But what will we really remember about Thomas's team?
1. My friends' numerous run-ins with Eddy Curry at the local diner at 2 am. Now I'm no nutritionist, but I'm assuming those late-night cheeseburgers didn't do much to strengthen Curry's muscle mass. But who knows, maybe Thomas hired Ronald McDonald's health advisor.
2. Nate Robinson's many pick-up basketball games at the local New York Sports Club to prove to his fans that, even if he can't cut it in the NBA, he's damn good when being guarded by a 5'4 balding accountant. One story comes to mind, told to me by The Fab Files Enemy No. 2 Danny Wolffffe. A few weeks ago, the Knicks were down by 4 with just seconds left when Nate Robinson chucked up a deep three as the buzzer sounded. Forgetting the fact that the shot had no bearing on the outcome of the game, good ol' Nate-Dog shouted at the refs that the shot better be counted. "Count dat! Count dat!" Nate wanted those 3 extra points to show up in the box score...oh the winning attitude.
3. Let's not forget Stephon Marbury's oft-forgotten but outrageously epic threat to blackmail once-close-pal Isaiah in the media. I mean, WHO DOES THAT? I always thought blackmail was illegal, but there's Starbury, going off on some reporter about how he has dirt on Thomas. How does Jose Canseco get a 60 Minutes segment and Steph gets page 14 of the Daily News? Silver-lining: Marbury might be the most entertaining off-the-field New York athlete since Mike Tyson.
Let's just try to forget that the last 5 years ever happened, and maybe try to convince the owner of Coach Diner to explain to Mr Curry that they're all out of fries, but how would egg whites and wheat toast sound.
God Bless Donnie Walsh
Baseball Season
Let's get back to sports, and talk about the opening of the 2008 baseball season, AKA Yankee Stadium's swan song.
1. The Yankees opened up last night with a picture perfect win over the Blue Jays. I would have paid top dollar to have been there when Joba emerged from the pen in the middle of the 8th. Over the past decade, there were few moments in sports that exhilarated me more than Metallica welcoming Mariano Rivera to the mound with "Enter Sandman." Well, move over Mo. Joba is as big as New York right now and embodies the future of the Yankees. The crowd went crazy for him last night, and I don't see the excitement lessening any time soon. New York has waited months for the return of the Joba, and now that he's here, we're gonna enjoy it.
2. The Yankees have the most likeable opening day team since 1998. Period. I find myself saying this every year, but this year it is actually true. The glue of our championship teams was our rotation of blue-chippers, guys who were good but not coveted. Well we're back to dealing with homegrown Yankees now, and there's no one more loveable than a true Yankee. We didn't make a push for Torii Hunter, we stuck with tiny, pudgy Melky. Even though there is no doubt Santana is more valuable to a team than whatever the Twins wanted from us, we stuck with the chips we had. That is why, no matter how Hughes, Kennedy, Joba, Melky, Posada, Pettite, Cano and the Captain fare this year, we will cut them a slight break. Because these guys are real members of our family, for better or for worse.
3. Seeing Joe Girardi jog out of the Yankees dugout last night was like an episode of the Twilight Zone. I mean, who else over the last 12 years has meant more to New York sports than Joe Torre. Jeter comes close, that's about it. As much as I loved Torre, it is time for a change. They say any company muct change its brass to remain competitive. Granted, I could manage the Yankees to the playoffs, but we're in the business of winning championships. Moneyball might say that winning playoff games is 100% luck, but how could you contribute dynasties and the Sox blistering 7 game romp of the Indians and the Rockies a stroke of luck? It's more than luck, and any team needs the perfect fit at manager to succeed in the playoffs. The Yankees have found the right fit.
4. Predictions:
Sox, Tigers, Mariners, Mets, Cubs, Dodgers win divisions; Yanks and Phils are Wild Cards. Yanks v Mets World Series, Yanks Champs. Too easy...oh ya, and Jeter's the MVP.
Did I mention I'm a Sox fan?
1. The Yankees opened up last night with a picture perfect win over the Blue Jays. I would have paid top dollar to have been there when Joba emerged from the pen in the middle of the 8th. Over the past decade, there were few moments in sports that exhilarated me more than Metallica welcoming Mariano Rivera to the mound with "Enter Sandman." Well, move over Mo. Joba is as big as New York right now and embodies the future of the Yankees. The crowd went crazy for him last night, and I don't see the excitement lessening any time soon. New York has waited months for the return of the Joba, and now that he's here, we're gonna enjoy it.
2. The Yankees have the most likeable opening day team since 1998. Period. I find myself saying this every year, but this year it is actually true. The glue of our championship teams was our rotation of blue-chippers, guys who were good but not coveted. Well we're back to dealing with homegrown Yankees now, and there's no one more loveable than a true Yankee. We didn't make a push for Torii Hunter, we stuck with tiny, pudgy Melky. Even though there is no doubt Santana is more valuable to a team than whatever the Twins wanted from us, we stuck with the chips we had. That is why, no matter how Hughes, Kennedy, Joba, Melky, Posada, Pettite, Cano and the Captain fare this year, we will cut them a slight break. Because these guys are real members of our family, for better or for worse.
3. Seeing Joe Girardi jog out of the Yankees dugout last night was like an episode of the Twilight Zone. I mean, who else over the last 12 years has meant more to New York sports than Joe Torre. Jeter comes close, that's about it. As much as I loved Torre, it is time for a change. They say any company muct change its brass to remain competitive. Granted, I could manage the Yankees to the playoffs, but we're in the business of winning championships. Moneyball might say that winning playoff games is 100% luck, but how could you contribute dynasties and the Sox blistering 7 game romp of the Indians and the Rockies a stroke of luck? It's more than luck, and any team needs the perfect fit at manager to succeed in the playoffs. The Yankees have found the right fit.
4. Predictions:
Sox, Tigers, Mariners, Mets, Cubs, Dodgers win divisions; Yanks and Phils are Wild Cards. Yanks v Mets World Series, Yanks Champs. Too easy...oh ya, and Jeter's the MVP.
Did I mention I'm a Sox fan?
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
It's Our Friend's Birthday
Quick shout out to The Fab Files close friend and avid reader, as well as Epstizz's and Agent Zero's Australia roommate, Andrew Kovacs. Kovacs pursues similar goals as us but through a different medium, the Radio.
http://gwradio.com/Links/listenlive/
Check him out, and wish him a Happy Birthday!
The Fab Files Enemy List
We're keeping a running count of enemies of the Fab Files. Becoming an enemy of the Fab Files is difficult, and once you make the list, it'll be a while before you come off. So, without further ado...
The Fab Files Enemy List:
1. Harrison Bergman
2. Danny Wolffe
Keep pushing my buttons and see where you'll be put next.
The Fab Files Enemy List:
1. Harrison Bergman
2. Danny Wolffe
Keep pushing my buttons and see where you'll be put next.
Some Wire Thoughts and More
Quick Hits:
1. A few brief thoughts about the final season of the Wire:
My biggest complaint was not the absurdity of the Serial Killer plot or the relentless and often over-simplified focus on the Newspaper. Many people point to these reasons as the downfall of the show's final season. Nay, I say. What bothered me most was that David Simon forgot what Wire fans cared about most - the characters. And every season had its obvious fan-favorites. Season 1 through 3 had Avon, Stringer, Bodie, and Omar. When Season 4 opened without Stringer, hope seemed lost, but we fell in love with Michael and the kids, and we still had Bodie and Omar. Well, Season 5 had no one to latch onto. We were expected to find our hero in Gus, but his character was so one-dimensional it was hard to favor him over the guys we truly connect with. That's what has become the Wire's specialty. Any show can feature a saint, not many can make an audience feel sympathy and passion for serial killers, child-murderers, drug dealers, and drunks. That was the problem with Season 5. Michael and Omar were given a backseat ride; the illustration of the Catch 22 that was innercity street life, once the most fascinating and brutally honest aspect of the show, had all but dissapeared; and the show focused on City Hall, the police department, and the newspaper, all concepts better off discussed on NPR. It's harder to respect a down-and-out drunk who creates a serial killer than, say, a kid who resorts to drug-dealing to protect and feed his baby brother. About halfway through the Series finale I lost my concentration as the episode bounced from the police station to the Mayor's office to the newsroom; I just wanted one Michael scene. 87 minutes later, and still no Michael. The show was amazing, I enjoyed every minute, I just wished the Wire stuck to its guns for its final hoorah.
2. If you read Bringing Down the House, don't see 21, it'll frustrate the hell out of you. After all, as hot as Kate Bosworth may be she is no goddamn Rams cheerleader. And for the rest of you, if you don't read, it's an entertaining movie.
3. The Fab Files friend, reader, and Logo-Graphic Maker (which, according to some, like The Fab Files enemy Harrison Bergman, is the only decent piece of material on my site) Ramon Desouza is in the process of creating a free sketch comedy. http://www.viralsandwich.com/
Check it out, I'll repost when it's up and running.
1. A few brief thoughts about the final season of the Wire:
My biggest complaint was not the absurdity of the Serial Killer plot or the relentless and often over-simplified focus on the Newspaper. Many people point to these reasons as the downfall of the show's final season. Nay, I say. What bothered me most was that David Simon forgot what Wire fans cared about most - the characters. And every season had its obvious fan-favorites. Season 1 through 3 had Avon, Stringer, Bodie, and Omar. When Season 4 opened without Stringer, hope seemed lost, but we fell in love with Michael and the kids, and we still had Bodie and Omar. Well, Season 5 had no one to latch onto. We were expected to find our hero in Gus, but his character was so one-dimensional it was hard to favor him over the guys we truly connect with. That's what has become the Wire's specialty. Any show can feature a saint, not many can make an audience feel sympathy and passion for serial killers, child-murderers, drug dealers, and drunks. That was the problem with Season 5. Michael and Omar were given a backseat ride; the illustration of the Catch 22 that was innercity street life, once the most fascinating and brutally honest aspect of the show, had all but dissapeared; and the show focused on City Hall, the police department, and the newspaper, all concepts better off discussed on NPR. It's harder to respect a down-and-out drunk who creates a serial killer than, say, a kid who resorts to drug-dealing to protect and feed his baby brother. About halfway through the Series finale I lost my concentration as the episode bounced from the police station to the Mayor's office to the newsroom; I just wanted one Michael scene. 87 minutes later, and still no Michael. The show was amazing, I enjoyed every minute, I just wished the Wire stuck to its guns for its final hoorah.
2. If you read Bringing Down the House, don't see 21, it'll frustrate the hell out of you. After all, as hot as Kate Bosworth may be she is no goddamn Rams cheerleader. And for the rest of you, if you don't read, it's an entertaining movie.
3. The Fab Files friend, reader, and Logo-Graphic Maker (which, according to some, like The Fab Files enemy Harrison Bergman, is the only decent piece of material on my site) Ramon Desouza is in the process of creating a free sketch comedy. http://www.viralsandwich.com/
Check it out, I'll repost when it's up and running.
Drink Monster
AEPi Tufts is officially sponsored by Monster Energy drink, so
Monster is delicious, refreshing, and, if used in small quantities, will most likely not cause heart attacks and or other potentially fatal illnesses. So, come by 98 Professors Row at Tufts Univeristy and grab yourself a Monster Energy Drink. You may tweek out a little, but you'll be among caring friends.
http://www.monsterenergy.com
Monster is delicious, refreshing, and, if used in small quantities, will most likely not cause heart attacks and or other potentially fatal illnesses. So, come by 98 Professors Row at Tufts Univeristy and grab yourself a Monster Energy Drink. You may tweek out a little, but you'll be among caring friends.
http://www.monsterenergy.com
Monday, March 31, 2008
A Little Off Topic
Try this on for size. Take 2 hours in the library and let me know how smart you really are. Please, post any comments in the comments section.
http://intelligence-test.net/part1/
http://intelligence-test.net/part1/
MJD
Fabiacci, you never cease to amaze me. Just when I thought I knew all 10 relevant white americans in the NBA, I forgot perhaps the best one, Michael Joseph Dunleavy, Jr. (MJD) This guy is a rich man's J.J. Redick, just as good of shooter, but also 5 inches taller. Although I won't yet write Redick's NBA career off, I'd say he'd have a much easier time getting off that beautiful stroke if he weren't shorter than everyone guarding him at the 2. Anyway, enjoy some great MJD highlights above.
Also wanted to clarify something before all of our readers label us as white supremacists and report us to the Anti-Defamation League or the NAACP. This whole tangent on white american basketball players has nothing to do with race issues, but is only an entertaining exercise aimed at poking fun at fellow awkward caucasian basketball players. One only need attend a game of our own AEPi (read white and Jewish) intramural basketball team to attest to this. The issue of genetics, race, and natural athletic ability is the subject of a whole different post. Perhaps Fabs will have something to say about it later on . . .
Do I Ever Not Have Thoughts Epstizz?
For a fun little exercise, I'm gonna rank the top 10 white American basketball players in the NBA right now.
WARNING: The following may be too underwhelming for children under 13
This list took a while to assemble; the fact is, the guys who do get PT are all relatively similar in production and effectiveness. But let's get started.
The list of best white Americans right now. (If you were to pick a team regardless of position for a game tomorrow, who would I choose....)
1. Mike Dunleavy, Pacers -- Every once in a while when I check ESPN's NBA Scoreboard, I'll see Dunleavy's picture on the top of the page next to a stat line of, oh, 34 points 8 rebounds and 7 assist . What other white guy could go off like that?
2. Chris Kaman, Clippers -- It may have taken him a few years to get going, but in the absence of Brand this year he has put up a staggering 13 boards and 3 blocks a game, to go along with 16 points.
3. Mike Miller, Grizzlies -- Miller was a high draft pick and much was expected from him coming out of Florida. He has had a solid career in the NBA, maybe not quite up to expectations, but a serviceable shooter and defender nonetheless.
4. Brad Miller, Kings -- Miller became an inside force on the once-perennial contender Kings, averaging 15 points and 10 boards for a solid 5-year run. He had a downyear last year, but he has played well this season...well enough to notch this 4th spot.
5. David Lee, Knicks -- The good news: he's heart and soul of the Knicks. The bad news is: that's like saying he's the heart and soul of Eliot Spitzer's Personal-Life Consulting Team.
6. Kirk Hinrich, Bulls -- TheFabFiles reader and friend David Greene once famously said, "I am here because I want to be." Well, Kirk is here because he has to be. There's really no one else. A year ago and he'd be top three. He's had his struggle this year though, shooting just 41% from the floor.
7. Nick Collison, Sonics -- Hinrich's Kansas teammate has had an equally uneventful season, a far more uneventful career.
8. Luke Walton, Lakers -- There are some other guys who may deserve this spot over him, but he is a starter and sometime-contributor for the only contending team on this list. That's gotta be good for 9th when his competition is Matt Harpring, Steve Blake, and Joel Przybilla right?
9. Matt Harpring, Jazz -- Once upon a time he would have headed this list, but the Jazz decided to try and compete, meaning their favorite white American had to find a nice comfortable seat next to Jarron Collins. His minutes per game of the past five season, starting with 03-04: 36.6, 33.1, 27.4, 25.5, 18.1. Maybe Sloan found out he keeps in touch with Jon Amaechi.
10. Joel Pryzbilla, Blazers -- Mr. Irrelevant
WARNING: The following may be too underwhelming for children under 13
This list took a while to assemble; the fact is, the guys who do get PT are all relatively similar in production and effectiveness. But let's get started.
The list of best white Americans right now. (If you were to pick a team regardless of position for a game tomorrow, who would I choose....)
1. Mike Dunleavy, Pacers -- Every once in a while when I check ESPN's NBA Scoreboard, I'll see Dunleavy's picture on the top of the page next to a stat line of, oh, 34 points 8 rebounds and 7 assist . What other white guy could go off like that?
2. Chris Kaman, Clippers -- It may have taken him a few years to get going, but in the absence of Brand this year he has put up a staggering 13 boards and 3 blocks a game, to go along with 16 points.
3. Mike Miller, Grizzlies -- Miller was a high draft pick and much was expected from him coming out of Florida. He has had a solid career in the NBA, maybe not quite up to expectations, but a serviceable shooter and defender nonetheless.
4. Brad Miller, Kings -- Miller became an inside force on the once-perennial contender Kings, averaging 15 points and 10 boards for a solid 5-year run. He had a downyear last year, but he has played well this season...well enough to notch this 4th spot.
5. David Lee, Knicks -- The good news: he's heart and soul of the Knicks. The bad news is: that's like saying he's the heart and soul of Eliot Spitzer's Personal-Life Consulting Team.
6. Kirk Hinrich, Bulls -- TheFabFiles reader and friend David Greene once famously said, "I am here because I want to be." Well, Kirk is here because he has to be. There's really no one else. A year ago and he'd be top three. He's had his struggle this year though, shooting just 41% from the floor.
7. Nick Collison, Sonics -- Hinrich's Kansas teammate has had an equally uneventful season, a far more uneventful career.
8. Luke Walton, Lakers -- There are some other guys who may deserve this spot over him, but he is a starter and sometime-contributor for the only contending team on this list. That's gotta be good for 9th when his competition is Matt Harpring, Steve Blake, and Joel Przybilla right?
9. Matt Harpring, Jazz -- Once upon a time he would have headed this list, but the Jazz decided to try and compete, meaning their favorite white American had to find a nice comfortable seat next to Jarron Collins. His minutes per game of the past five season, starting with 03-04: 36.6, 33.1, 27.4, 25.5, 18.1. Maybe Sloan found out he keeps in touch with Jon Amaechi.
10. Joel Pryzbilla, Blazers -- Mr. Irrelevant
The case of Redick and Morrison
Another example of the curse of the GWABP is JJ Redick and Adam Morrison, two of the best white american college basketball players since Christian Laettner? Check out the link for one blogger's list of the best GWABPs of all time. Any thoughts fabs?
NBA Awards, Wire-style
Ya sue me, I'm stealing a page from the artist formerly known as The Sports Guy, currently known as Rick Reilly the 2nd.
Presenting NBA Awards set to legendar quatations from the greatest TV show that has ever existed:
1. "My name is my name!" Marlo, Season 5 --- To the MVP of the NBA, Kobe Bryant.
Kobe might not be having the best statistical year of his career or the best season in the NBA, but, hey, his name is Kobe and he hasn't won one yet; couple that with the noticeable absense of individual accolades beside his three NBA titles, and that he's been the most complete and marketable superstar of the post-Jordan era (face it, big men just dont sell like they used to) and its becoming a farce that he has yet to notch an MVP.
2. "They do not get to win. We get to win!" McNulty, Season 3 --- To the Coach of the Year, Byron Scott
As much as credit must be bestowed on Chris Paul, the MVP candidate if Kobe had won one before, Scott has been the underlying, demanding presence that has pushed this team to a surreal level. When the Hornets were flying high at mid-season, not many experts thought they'd keep pace in the decade's toughest conference. But Scott and Paul have been willing this team to victory night after night and they've established themselves as an elite force.
3. "What the f*ck did I do?" McNulty, Repeated --- To the 6th Man, Manu Ginobli
I think that quote basically explains itself. He may be one of the most efficient players around, but when you think Manu, you gotta think of the classic "hands up in disbelief and blank stare at the ref" look. He's perfected it.
4. "I'll do what I can to help ya'll. But the game's out there, and it's either play, or get played." Omar, Season 1 --- To the Defensive Player of the Year, Kevin Garnett
Can't you picture the ever-humble KG sitting in an office, staring down Danny Ainge and Doc Rivers, saying this exact line. Well, just as putting their trust in Omar paid off for McNulty and the Justice System, so too has trusting KG paid off for the Celtics. And I'd say that the Celtics chose to play rather than get played. No amount of hyperbole justifies how much KG has meant to this C's team (so has he revolutioned a team, a city, a culture, or a human race?). It's not just his intensity and defensive prowess; but for some reason, the team's biggest question marks (Rondo and Perkins), as well as a number of seemingly average bench guys, have been playing outstanding, consistent basketball for 5 months. Most of that credit has to go to KG.
5. "You know I don't take this sh*t too serious" - "Oh ya right, it's just business." Stringer Bell and Avon, Season 3 --- To the Executive of the Year, Danny Ainge
Avon knows he's setting best friend Stringer up to die during their final scene together. Well, I'm sure Danny Ainge felt pretty similar when he was discussing the KG trade with his friend and former teammate Kevin McHale. Who knows what role personal relationships played in the Celtic's acquiring KG, but we do know that one move locked up Ainge's bid for this award before the season even started.
6. "Game's the same, just got more fierce." Slim Charles, Season 3 --- To the Western Conference Playoff Race
Who saw this one coming? When Cutty gets out of jail and back into the game, he is shocked at how much has changed. Well, it was as if NBA fans were locked up for a few years and let out halfway into this season. It has been a thrill to watch the West this year. The NBA has always been criticized for the lack of intensity in games during the doldrums of the season; for that reason many hoops fans, including myself, generally take an NBA mid-season sabbatical and flock to the college ranks. Well, not this season. The intensity has been sky-high for nearly three months now and it isn't letting up. The Western Conference this year is the drug game replacing bats with guns. It's the same game, just more fierce.
7. "Lesson here, Bay...you come at the king, you best not miss." To the Eventual NBA Champs, the San Antonio Spurs
Every year, around this time, they find their top gear to make a late-season and postseason run, which is a remarkable feat they're able to accomplish on a consistent basis. Remember the Patriots' season? They were lauded as the best team in the history of the NFL, but many experts who had them as locks to win the Super Bowl ignored their late-season struggles. It is increasingly difficult, and in most cases a matter of luck, to turn the switch on. There are two types of great teams: those, like the Celtics, who play entire seasons with the switch on. And there are those, like the Spurs, who have become adept at knowing when and how to turn it on. Many teams can peak at any time, as the Rockets have, but only the great ones peak in the playoffs. And only the true dynasties do it consistently.
8. "I got the shotgun, you got the briefcase" Omar, Season 2
"How's my hair look?" Snoop, Season 5 --- To David Stern and Clay Bennet for Stealing the Sonics
I just wanted to throw those two quotes in there. Just like Maury Levy, Stern is tampering with the game without ever setting foot on the streets. And Seattle better pull a Snoop and make sure they look good before heading to the grave.
9. "Sh*t, you just a boy." - "And that's just a knee." Michael, Season 5 --- To the Future of the NBA, Steph Curry
Don't let his looks deceive you, he is the real deal.
Presenting NBA Awards set to legendar quatations from the greatest TV show that has ever existed:
1. "My name is my name!" Marlo, Season 5 --- To the MVP of the NBA, Kobe Bryant.
Kobe might not be having the best statistical year of his career or the best season in the NBA, but, hey, his name is Kobe and he hasn't won one yet; couple that with the noticeable absense of individual accolades beside his three NBA titles, and that he's been the most complete and marketable superstar of the post-Jordan era (face it, big men just dont sell like they used to) and its becoming a farce that he has yet to notch an MVP.
2. "They do not get to win. We get to win!" McNulty, Season 3 --- To the Coach of the Year, Byron Scott
As much as credit must be bestowed on Chris Paul, the MVP candidate if Kobe had won one before, Scott has been the underlying, demanding presence that has pushed this team to a surreal level. When the Hornets were flying high at mid-season, not many experts thought they'd keep pace in the decade's toughest conference. But Scott and Paul have been willing this team to victory night after night and they've established themselves as an elite force.
3. "What the f*ck did I do?" McNulty, Repeated --- To the 6th Man, Manu Ginobli
I think that quote basically explains itself. He may be one of the most efficient players around, but when you think Manu, you gotta think of the classic "hands up in disbelief and blank stare at the ref" look. He's perfected it.
4. "I'll do what I can to help ya'll. But the game's out there, and it's either play, or get played." Omar, Season 1 --- To the Defensive Player of the Year, Kevin Garnett
Can't you picture the ever-humble KG sitting in an office, staring down Danny Ainge and Doc Rivers, saying this exact line. Well, just as putting their trust in Omar paid off for McNulty and the Justice System, so too has trusting KG paid off for the Celtics. And I'd say that the Celtics chose to play rather than get played. No amount of hyperbole justifies how much KG has meant to this C's team (so has he revolutioned a team, a city, a culture, or a human race?). It's not just his intensity and defensive prowess; but for some reason, the team's biggest question marks (Rondo and Perkins), as well as a number of seemingly average bench guys, have been playing outstanding, consistent basketball for 5 months. Most of that credit has to go to KG.
5. "You know I don't take this sh*t too serious" - "Oh ya right, it's just business." Stringer Bell and Avon, Season 3 --- To the Executive of the Year, Danny Ainge
Avon knows he's setting best friend Stringer up to die during their final scene together. Well, I'm sure Danny Ainge felt pretty similar when he was discussing the KG trade with his friend and former teammate Kevin McHale. Who knows what role personal relationships played in the Celtic's acquiring KG, but we do know that one move locked up Ainge's bid for this award before the season even started.
6. "Game's the same, just got more fierce." Slim Charles, Season 3 --- To the Western Conference Playoff Race
Who saw this one coming? When Cutty gets out of jail and back into the game, he is shocked at how much has changed. Well, it was as if NBA fans were locked up for a few years and let out halfway into this season. It has been a thrill to watch the West this year. The NBA has always been criticized for the lack of intensity in games during the doldrums of the season; for that reason many hoops fans, including myself, generally take an NBA mid-season sabbatical and flock to the college ranks. Well, not this season. The intensity has been sky-high for nearly three months now and it isn't letting up. The Western Conference this year is the drug game replacing bats with guns. It's the same game, just more fierce.
7. "Lesson here, Bay...you come at the king, you best not miss." To the Eventual NBA Champs, the San Antonio Spurs
Every year, around this time, they find their top gear to make a late-season and postseason run, which is a remarkable feat they're able to accomplish on a consistent basis. Remember the Patriots' season? They were lauded as the best team in the history of the NFL, but many experts who had them as locks to win the Super Bowl ignored their late-season struggles. It is increasingly difficult, and in most cases a matter of luck, to turn the switch on. There are two types of great teams: those, like the Celtics, who play entire seasons with the switch on. And there are those, like the Spurs, who have become adept at knowing when and how to turn it on. Many teams can peak at any time, as the Rockets have, but only the great ones peak in the playoffs. And only the true dynasties do it consistently.
8. "I got the shotgun, you got the briefcase" Omar, Season 2
"How's my hair look?" Snoop, Season 5 --- To David Stern and Clay Bennet for Stealing the Sonics
I just wanted to throw those two quotes in there. Just like Maury Levy, Stern is tampering with the game without ever setting foot on the streets. And Seattle better pull a Snoop and make sure they look good before heading to the grave.
9. "Sh*t, you just a boy." - "And that's just a knee." Michael, Season 5 --- To the Future of the NBA, Steph Curry
Don't let his looks deceive you, he is the real deal.
The Dying Breed
In response to the question posed by Epstizz,
The good white American basektball player (GWABP) has really been a rarity for more than a decade now, and there's no light at the end of the tunnel. The ironic thing about Epstizz's question is, as good as Kevin Love might potentially be, he exemplifies the exact reason that there are no longer any of his kind. He is one of the slowest, doofiest looking players I've seen on a court recently (with the obvious exception of the bohemith from UNC Ashville). You see, the question you ask yourself when you see Love dominate games is not, How does an amazing player move so awkwardly, but rather, How is such an awkwardly-moving player so amazing.
The NCAA will always boast its share of fantastic GWABPs, but they all tend to have the same defficiences in common: their glaring lack of athletic ability. Granted, this is not the most subtle of discoveries, but I found it increasingly fascinating that the concerns voiced about Kevin Love are what turns off scouts about Love's peers. The fact that Love, and Hansbrough too for that matter, needs to be the hardest-working, fundamentally sound player on the court implies that, without possessing those skills, the GWAPB won't survive in the NBA...And even with those skills, you're no sure thing.
So scouts and GMs are hired to pick the skills most essential to be a succesful pro, and they will 9 out of 10 times choose athleticism and raw talent over fundamentals and work ethic. And the thing is, as much as we might see that decision made over and over, it is not close to even a slightly-flawed system of decision-making. It is, at its core, after assessing the evidence, a false notion.
I want to offer a little evidence, in two words: David Lee. Granted, he was not a standout at Florida, but he was a poor man's Hansbrough. He worked his ass off, was a hustle-machine, and, most importantly, had the rebounding sense - that innate mental and physical ability to recognize where the ball would bounce off the room and establish position for the rebond. So the Knicks took a flyer on David Lee with the 30th overall pick in the 2005 draft. Maybe in such a deep draft this was the right spot for him, but it's impossible not to think that the stigma of being a white American basketball player impacted his appeal.
So quickly back to Love. If he comes out, he probably won't be a top-5 pick. And I can't blame the scouts who drool over the "upside" of OJ Mayo and Michael Beasley. I just hope their assessment of Love doesn't revolves not on how awkwardly he gets up the court, but on the amazing things he does when he gets there.
The good white American basektball player (GWABP) has really been a rarity for more than a decade now, and there's no light at the end of the tunnel. The ironic thing about Epstizz's question is, as good as Kevin Love might potentially be, he exemplifies the exact reason that there are no longer any of his kind. He is one of the slowest, doofiest looking players I've seen on a court recently (with the obvious exception of the bohemith from UNC Ashville). You see, the question you ask yourself when you see Love dominate games is not, How does an amazing player move so awkwardly, but rather, How is such an awkwardly-moving player so amazing.
The NCAA will always boast its share of fantastic GWABPs, but they all tend to have the same defficiences in common: their glaring lack of athletic ability. Granted, this is not the most subtle of discoveries, but I found it increasingly fascinating that the concerns voiced about Kevin Love are what turns off scouts about Love's peers. The fact that Love, and Hansbrough too for that matter, needs to be the hardest-working, fundamentally sound player on the court implies that, without possessing those skills, the GWAPB won't survive in the NBA...And even with those skills, you're no sure thing.
So scouts and GMs are hired to pick the skills most essential to be a succesful pro, and they will 9 out of 10 times choose athleticism and raw talent over fundamentals and work ethic. And the thing is, as much as we might see that decision made over and over, it is not close to even a slightly-flawed system of decision-making. It is, at its core, after assessing the evidence, a false notion.
I want to offer a little evidence, in two words: David Lee. Granted, he was not a standout at Florida, but he was a poor man's Hansbrough. He worked his ass off, was a hustle-machine, and, most importantly, had the rebounding sense - that innate mental and physical ability to recognize where the ball would bounce off the room and establish position for the rebond. So the Knicks took a flyer on David Lee with the 30th overall pick in the 2005 draft. Maybe in such a deep draft this was the right spot for him, but it's impossible not to think that the stigma of being a white American basketball player impacted his appeal.
So quickly back to Love. If he comes out, he probably won't be a top-5 pick. And I can't blame the scouts who drool over the "upside" of OJ Mayo and Michael Beasley. I just hope their assessment of Love doesn't revolves not on how awkwardly he gets up the court, but on the amazing things he does when he gets there.
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