Predicting round 2:
By Zack Penn, 5/5/14
West:
The match-up of #1 San Antonio vs #5 Portland pegs youth vs. experience and a speed vs. substance. San Antonio struggled to close games out against Dallas and it almost doomed them to an early exit. Portland, on the other hand, rose up in the final minutes of their games and asserted themselves as this years most improved team. I kind of want to give Portland the edge in this one because I like how Lillard-Aldridge match-up with Parker-Duncan. The X-Factor for San Antonio is 3-point hitman Danny Green. Green's daggers elevated his team to another level last postseason and his long range ability may be his team's deciding factor. Portland's X-Factor is the underrated Wesley Matthews. He has sneaky good offense with a great mid-range shot and an array of slippery driving moves but his defense against Green and Manu Ginobili will be the key. I would love to pick Portland in this, but experience and coaching wins in the playoffs. San Antonio in 7.
After a pair of emotionally draining series' #2 Oklahoma City and #3 Los Angeles will look to refocus. What a better way for Blake Griffin to put an exclamation point after what has really been a breakout season for him then to upset the Championship-minded Thunder with MVP-KD. LA was beaten on the boards in every game by the shorthanded Warriors, so they definitely need to hit the glass with more intensity. For all the talk about Durant choking last series, I thought Serge Ibaka was really the one who failed to step up and got swallowed up by Memphis' vicious inside attack. The X-Factor for the Clippers is surprisingly Chris Paul. The leagues best overall point guard played pretty poorly on offense against the Warriors as he focused on guarding Steph Curry. If Russell Westbrook can continue to limit Paul's offensive effectiveness, the Clippers will have a tough time in the series. Reggie Jackson is OKC's X-Factor, and why wouldn't he be after he has risen to the 6th man spot behind clutch shooting. Let's hope he comes out like he did in game 4 with 32 points, as opposed to game 5's 6 point showing. You heard it here first, the Clippers will continue to rally against the Donald Sterling adversity and will play out of their minds. Clippers in 6.
East:
#1 Indiana vs. #5 Washington pits an unexpectedly falling team against an unexpectedly rising one. Indiana has fallen off and play much worse than their talent should dictate in round 1. Meanwhile, Washington played out of their minds, taking Chicago by storm and winning in 5 games. Nobody thought Washington would get this far, so its a stretch to think they have a chance against the Pacers, right ...? WRONG! John Wall, Bradley Beal and the resurgent Nene have formed a dominant offensive trio and their quick style of play looks like the perfect storm to knock off the tired Pacers. What is wrong with Roy Hibbert? Nobody really knows but Nene is coming to town and if Hibbert doesn't straighten up and fly right, he is going to be hit by a train of offseason storylines questioning his place on the team. Hibbert is the Pacer's X-Factor. Quietly the team's glue guy, Trevor Ariza is the Wizard's X-Factor. He's picked up his game defensively this year and has been able to hit the open shots that Washington's transition offense creates.
Washington in 6.
#2 Miami's worst nightmare, #6 Brooklyn, is coming to town. Brooklyn cleanly swept the defending champs during the regular season, but it won't be very easy to replicate that in the playoffs. Miami let the sports world know that they were still the defending champs when they put down the Bobcats like they had rabies. The Nets didn't have as easy of a time with Toronto and really looked like a lesser team than the Raptors in my opinion. LeBron doesn't care about winning the MVP, all he cares about is the 3-Peat. Miami known how to turn it on come playoff time as this is their core's 4th go-around, so I really expect them to brush the dirt of their shoulder in this one (Sorry Jay-Z). Brooklyn's X-Factor is Kevin Garnett. KG has been a shell of himself this season and simply needs to turn it up against Chris Bosh this series for BK to have any chance. His famous range has completely evaporated this season but his defense is still intact and he will need to lock out Bosh for most of the series. Miami's X-Factor is Dwayne Wade. If Wade can overcome injury to win the match-up with Joe Johnson, Brooklyn doesn't have a chance. Brooklyn may have been Miami's worst nightmare, but this is playoffs, sleep time is over. Miami in 5.
West:
The match-up of #1 San Antonio vs #5 Portland pegs youth vs. experience and a speed vs. substance. San Antonio struggled to close games out against Dallas and it almost doomed them to an early exit. Portland, on the other hand, rose up in the final minutes of their games and asserted themselves as this years most improved team. I kind of want to give Portland the edge in this one because I like how Lillard-Aldridge match-up with Parker-Duncan. The X-Factor for San Antonio is 3-point hitman Danny Green. Green's daggers elevated his team to another level last postseason and his long range ability may be his team's deciding factor. Portland's X-Factor is the underrated Wesley Matthews. He has sneaky good offense with a great mid-range shot and an array of slippery driving moves but his defense against Green and Manu Ginobili will be the key. I would love to pick Portland in this, but experience and coaching wins in the playoffs. San Antonio in 7.
After a pair of emotionally draining series' #2 Oklahoma City and #3 Los Angeles will look to refocus. What a better way for Blake Griffin to put an exclamation point after what has really been a breakout season for him then to upset the Championship-minded Thunder with MVP-KD. LA was beaten on the boards in every game by the shorthanded Warriors, so they definitely need to hit the glass with more intensity. For all the talk about Durant choking last series, I thought Serge Ibaka was really the one who failed to step up and got swallowed up by Memphis' vicious inside attack. The X-Factor for the Clippers is surprisingly Chris Paul. The leagues best overall point guard played pretty poorly on offense against the Warriors as he focused on guarding Steph Curry. If Russell Westbrook can continue to limit Paul's offensive effectiveness, the Clippers will have a tough time in the series. Reggie Jackson is OKC's X-Factor, and why wouldn't he be after he has risen to the 6th man spot behind clutch shooting. Let's hope he comes out like he did in game 4 with 32 points, as opposed to game 5's 6 point showing. You heard it here first, the Clippers will continue to rally against the Donald Sterling adversity and will play out of their minds. Clippers in 6.
East:
#1 Indiana vs. #5 Washington pits an unexpectedly falling team against an unexpectedly rising one. Indiana has fallen off and play much worse than their talent should dictate in round 1. Meanwhile, Washington played out of their minds, taking Chicago by storm and winning in 5 games. Nobody thought Washington would get this far, so its a stretch to think they have a chance against the Pacers, right ...? WRONG! John Wall, Bradley Beal and the resurgent Nene have formed a dominant offensive trio and their quick style of play looks like the perfect storm to knock off the tired Pacers. What is wrong with Roy Hibbert? Nobody really knows but Nene is coming to town and if Hibbert doesn't straighten up and fly right, he is going to be hit by a train of offseason storylines questioning his place on the team. Hibbert is the Pacer's X-Factor. Quietly the team's glue guy, Trevor Ariza is the Wizard's X-Factor. He's picked up his game defensively this year and has been able to hit the open shots that Washington's transition offense creates.
Washington in 6.
#2 Miami's worst nightmare, #6 Brooklyn, is coming to town. Brooklyn cleanly swept the defending champs during the regular season, but it won't be very easy to replicate that in the playoffs. Miami let the sports world know that they were still the defending champs when they put down the Bobcats like they had rabies. The Nets didn't have as easy of a time with Toronto and really looked like a lesser team than the Raptors in my opinion. LeBron doesn't care about winning the MVP, all he cares about is the 3-Peat. Miami known how to turn it on come playoff time as this is their core's 4th go-around, so I really expect them to brush the dirt of their shoulder in this one (Sorry Jay-Z). Brooklyn's X-Factor is Kevin Garnett. KG has been a shell of himself this season and simply needs to turn it up against Chris Bosh this series for BK to have any chance. His famous range has completely evaporated this season but his defense is still intact and he will need to lock out Bosh for most of the series. Miami's X-Factor is Dwayne Wade. If Wade can overcome injury to win the match-up with Joe Johnson, Brooklyn doesn't have a chance. Brooklyn may have been Miami's worst nightmare, but this is playoffs, sleep time is over. Miami in 5.
The most intriguing Match-ups in Round 1
West:
#4 Houston vs #5 Portland figures to be must see TV. Two incredibly high octane offenses will aim to out-shoot each other. Portland's efficient attack will be tested at their strengths. If Patrick Beverly can put his hands all over Damian Lillard or Dwight Howard can slow LaMarcus Aldridge down, Portland's playoff hopes may fizzle. The X-Factor in this game is the matchup at SF between Houston's Chandler Parsons and Portlands Nic Batum. Parson's is a lights out shooter who makes unexpected contributions on defense while Batum is a fantastic defender and a triple double waiting to happen. The winner of this match-up will have a clear edge in the series. Houston is just obviously a deeper team off the bench and have much more experience in the playoffs. I think they could make a deep playoff run, and I have Houston winning in 6.
The Golden State Warriors showed the world their potential in last year's playoffs as the 6 seed against Denver, but Doc Rivers and the LA Clippers figure to be a tougher test. The Warriors won the season series 3-1 but they lost the only game they played against a healthy Chris Paul. If Andrew Bogut misses a couple games, Lob City could put the smackdown on Mark Jackson and the boys but I still wouldn't count out Steph Curry in any game. This game features the two best point guards in the league and two teams that absolutely hate each other? How could it get any better? With explosive dunks vs dagger 3s. My heart says the Warriors will come out on top but I'm going with my head on this one, Clippers in 7.
East:
Everyone wants to see what #3 seed Toronto can do. A series with the battle tested old men on the Brooklyn Nets. Deron Williams has been an obvious bust for the Nets but he will be forgiven if he can get past the man that is Kyle Lowry. Lowry has been the catalyst for the Raptors coming of age season and they have stifled teams with their combination of size, speed and enthusiastic athleticism. These teams are complete opposites on the offensive end, as Brooklyn will slow it down and play a smart, slow methodical style of play that almost looks like the NBA version of Bo Ryan's Wisconsin basketball. Brooklyn has the obvious experience edge and that is why I see them pulling this one out. Brooklyn in 7.
The #4 Chicago Bulls will have their defense put to the test against the #5 Wizards and their dominant back court. John Wall's speed and passing mixed with Beal's speed and shooting makes for a pretty deadly combo that Joakim Noah won't be able to do anything about. Chicago has the obvious edge on the interior defensively however and if Wall has a bad game, they could be swallowed up by the lock down defense. Chicago probably really misses Luol Deng right about now, he could have been the catalyst for this team to make a deep playoff run. Chicago could be the perfect team to upset the Indiana Pacers. Chicago in 5.
#4 Houston vs #5 Portland figures to be must see TV. Two incredibly high octane offenses will aim to out-shoot each other. Portland's efficient attack will be tested at their strengths. If Patrick Beverly can put his hands all over Damian Lillard or Dwight Howard can slow LaMarcus Aldridge down, Portland's playoff hopes may fizzle. The X-Factor in this game is the matchup at SF between Houston's Chandler Parsons and Portlands Nic Batum. Parson's is a lights out shooter who makes unexpected contributions on defense while Batum is a fantastic defender and a triple double waiting to happen. The winner of this match-up will have a clear edge in the series. Houston is just obviously a deeper team off the bench and have much more experience in the playoffs. I think they could make a deep playoff run, and I have Houston winning in 6.
The Golden State Warriors showed the world their potential in last year's playoffs as the 6 seed against Denver, but Doc Rivers and the LA Clippers figure to be a tougher test. The Warriors won the season series 3-1 but they lost the only game they played against a healthy Chris Paul. If Andrew Bogut misses a couple games, Lob City could put the smackdown on Mark Jackson and the boys but I still wouldn't count out Steph Curry in any game. This game features the two best point guards in the league and two teams that absolutely hate each other? How could it get any better? With explosive dunks vs dagger 3s. My heart says the Warriors will come out on top but I'm going with my head on this one, Clippers in 7.
East:
Everyone wants to see what #3 seed Toronto can do. A series with the battle tested old men on the Brooklyn Nets. Deron Williams has been an obvious bust for the Nets but he will be forgiven if he can get past the man that is Kyle Lowry. Lowry has been the catalyst for the Raptors coming of age season and they have stifled teams with their combination of size, speed and enthusiastic athleticism. These teams are complete opposites on the offensive end, as Brooklyn will slow it down and play a smart, slow methodical style of play that almost looks like the NBA version of Bo Ryan's Wisconsin basketball. Brooklyn has the obvious experience edge and that is why I see them pulling this one out. Brooklyn in 7.
The #4 Chicago Bulls will have their defense put to the test against the #5 Wizards and their dominant back court. John Wall's speed and passing mixed with Beal's speed and shooting makes for a pretty deadly combo that Joakim Noah won't be able to do anything about. Chicago has the obvious edge on the interior defensively however and if Wall has a bad game, they could be swallowed up by the lock down defense. Chicago probably really misses Luol Deng right about now, he could have been the catalyst for this team to make a deep playoff run. Chicago could be the perfect team to upset the Indiana Pacers. Chicago in 5.
The Race for 3rd place
By Zack Penn 2/7/14
The top 2 seeds in the West conference have been in control by Oklahoma City and San Antonio for essentially the entire season. However, the fight for the 3 seed has not ceased in excitement or drama. In particular, the Western conference trio of The Trail Blazers, Clippers, and Rockets have incessantly competed for the 3 spot with high octane offenses rated #1, #2 and #3, respectively in points scored.
The top 2 seeds in the West conference have been in control by Oklahoma City and San Antonio for essentially the entire season. However, the fight for the 3 seed has not ceased in excitement or drama. In particular, the Western conference trio of The Trail Blazers, Clippers, and Rockets have incessantly competed for the 3 spot with high octane offenses rated #1, #2 and #3, respectively in points scored.
Houston Rockets: The Rockets have found a strong winning formula by getting 2 stars and putting key role players around them. Patrick Beverly is a smothering defensive point guard who can guard the likes of Tony Parker in the playoffs. He frustrates team's floor generals and creates turnovers that help facilitate Houston's fast-paced style of play. Beverly also allows for Jeremy Lin to come off the bench to do what he does best, score and run the pick and roll with the best back up center in the league, Omer Asik. This team also has a great 3 point shooter in Chandler Parsons who can help take the scoring load off of Harden when he has an off night. The Rockets have found a formula for success, but it hasn't helped them against the Clippers this season. The Rockets have what it takes to make a championship run, but I'm not sure if I trust Dwight Howard in the playoffs.
LA Clippers: 3-0 in games against Houston this season, the Clips have proven themselves this year. But even more, Blake Griffin has proven himself. The dunk king has expanded his game with improved jump shooting and overall tenacity. When Chris Paul went out with a separated shoulder, Griffin took his game to a new level. Paul's renewed presence has only accentuated Blake's game after the all-star break and the Power Forward averaged above 30 points per game in February. This team is chomping at the bit for their first ever playoff run and have stuffed their pockets with players that will help them get there. They have signed Danny Granger, Hedo Terkoglu, and Glen Davis this year in hopes of adding impact bench guys and they tried to sign Andrew Bynum before the Pacers picked him up. When you have the best point guard in the league and maybe the best frontcourt in the league, you have an instant recipe for success. The Clippers are my dark horse to win the NBA Finals, longshot as they may be. I just like this teams make up of scoring and downright nastiness. Doc Rivers will know how to push this team in the playoffs and their defense is getting better and better.
Portland Trail Blazers: The surprise team of the NBA is also highest scoring and highest rebounding team in the NBA. Another team that relies heavily on its 2 stars and key role plays from others. Lamarcus Aldridge and rising star Damian Lillard combine for 44.5 point a night by themselves. Lillard has hit 40% on 3s this year and he rarely turns the ball over. At the other starting spots, Robin Lopez and Nic Batum form a duo of hustle players who power the defensive side of the ball while 2-guard Wesley Matthews has provided help on the scoring load. If Lamarcus Aldridge and Damian Lillard are this teams engine, Nicholas Batum is the piston. With his length and speed, Batum has become a much better rebounder and passer this year averaging just under 6.9 rebounds and 5.2 assists per game to go along with 13 points. He is one of the best defenders in the NBA and will be used come playoff time against Kevin Durant. Portland likely won't be the favorite in any playoff series they end up in, but this young team is hungry and looking for an unsuspecting team to pounce on. I'd love to see a Portland-Golden State shootout series.
LA Clippers: 3-0 in games against Houston this season, the Clips have proven themselves this year. But even more, Blake Griffin has proven himself. The dunk king has expanded his game with improved jump shooting and overall tenacity. When Chris Paul went out with a separated shoulder, Griffin took his game to a new level. Paul's renewed presence has only accentuated Blake's game after the all-star break and the Power Forward averaged above 30 points per game in February. This team is chomping at the bit for their first ever playoff run and have stuffed their pockets with players that will help them get there. They have signed Danny Granger, Hedo Terkoglu, and Glen Davis this year in hopes of adding impact bench guys and they tried to sign Andrew Bynum before the Pacers picked him up. When you have the best point guard in the league and maybe the best frontcourt in the league, you have an instant recipe for success. The Clippers are my dark horse to win the NBA Finals, longshot as they may be. I just like this teams make up of scoring and downright nastiness. Doc Rivers will know how to push this team in the playoffs and their defense is getting better and better.
Portland Trail Blazers: The surprise team of the NBA is also highest scoring and highest rebounding team in the NBA. Another team that relies heavily on its 2 stars and key role plays from others. Lamarcus Aldridge and rising star Damian Lillard combine for 44.5 point a night by themselves. Lillard has hit 40% on 3s this year and he rarely turns the ball over. At the other starting spots, Robin Lopez and Nic Batum form a duo of hustle players who power the defensive side of the ball while 2-guard Wesley Matthews has provided help on the scoring load. If Lamarcus Aldridge and Damian Lillard are this teams engine, Nicholas Batum is the piston. With his length and speed, Batum has become a much better rebounder and passer this year averaging just under 6.9 rebounds and 5.2 assists per game to go along with 13 points. He is one of the best defenders in the NBA and will be used come playoff time against Kevin Durant. Portland likely won't be the favorite in any playoff series they end up in, but this young team is hungry and looking for an unsuspecting team to pounce on. I'd love to see a Portland-Golden State shootout series.
Contender Or Pretender?
East:
Toronto Raptors: Pretender
The Raps are taking full advantage of the horrendous East and are in the 3 seed right now despite being only 3 games above .500. Kyle Lowry and Demar Derozen are both play to their ceilings right now with all star level play but can they keep it up all year and carry it into postseason play? Will they even have the same team or will cunning GM Masai Ujiri sell high on Lowry or Terrence Ross? Overall I just don't think this team can hang in the playoffs and thats why they are labeled as a pretender.
Brooklyn Nets: Contender
The Nets have finally found a defensive identity and find themselves 2 games back from 3rd place after a horrible start. I trust this team simply because of their overall experience and veteran leadership. They may be one of the only mid tear teams in the East that could give Miami or Indiana a run for their money in a 7 game series. After the season is over, something really needs to be done about the rapidly declining Deron Williams. This team is well over the luxury tax because they pay Williams to be a top 5 point guard. I would much rather see Eric Bledsoe out there or even Mike Conley.
Washington Wizards: Pretender
In the East they are. In the West they wouldn't be even near the playoff picture. John Wall has played like a star and he and Bradley Beal are the most fun backcourt in the league right now. The rest of the team is suspect. How about this year's rookie draft class? Otto Porter Jr. anyone? Averaging 1.7 ppg for the Wizards and making a nice hefty 4.3 million. Not as bad as Anthony Bennett though!
Atlanta Hawks: Contender
The Hawks have slipped a bit with the Al Horford injury but they have successfully found a way to stay good while shedding their former core of Joe Johnson and Josh Smith and saving money. Perhaps with the idea of getting Melo next year? Or even King James himself? LeBron would be an enticing long shot, but Melo would be a guy that could get the Hawks thinking championship as soon as next year.
Toronto Raptors: Pretender
The Raps are taking full advantage of the horrendous East and are in the 3 seed right now despite being only 3 games above .500. Kyle Lowry and Demar Derozen are both play to their ceilings right now with all star level play but can they keep it up all year and carry it into postseason play? Will they even have the same team or will cunning GM Masai Ujiri sell high on Lowry or Terrence Ross? Overall I just don't think this team can hang in the playoffs and thats why they are labeled as a pretender.
Brooklyn Nets: Contender
The Nets have finally found a defensive identity and find themselves 2 games back from 3rd place after a horrible start. I trust this team simply because of their overall experience and veteran leadership. They may be one of the only mid tear teams in the East that could give Miami or Indiana a run for their money in a 7 game series. After the season is over, something really needs to be done about the rapidly declining Deron Williams. This team is well over the luxury tax because they pay Williams to be a top 5 point guard. I would much rather see Eric Bledsoe out there or even Mike Conley.
Washington Wizards: Pretender
In the East they are. In the West they wouldn't be even near the playoff picture. John Wall has played like a star and he and Bradley Beal are the most fun backcourt in the league right now. The rest of the team is suspect. How about this year's rookie draft class? Otto Porter Jr. anyone? Averaging 1.7 ppg for the Wizards and making a nice hefty 4.3 million. Not as bad as Anthony Bennett though!
Atlanta Hawks: Contender
The Hawks have slipped a bit with the Al Horford injury but they have successfully found a way to stay good while shedding their former core of Joe Johnson and Josh Smith and saving money. Perhaps with the idea of getting Melo next year? Or even King James himself? LeBron would be an enticing long shot, but Melo would be a guy that could get the Hawks thinking championship as soon as next year.
West:
Portland Trail Blazers: Contender
The Trail Blazers have found a balanced lineup and invested heavily in their bench this offseason. Everything they have done has worked. Currently 3rd in the West, the best scoring, best rebounding team in the NBA have already won more games than they did last year. LaMarcus Aldridge is a bonafide MVP candidate this year and Damian Lillard may already be a top 5 PG in the league. I wouldn't be surprised if Portland ends up in the NBA Finals.
Phoenix Suns: Pretender
The question here is, what happens when Bledsoe comes back from injury? Goran Dragic made a statement with 34 points in a win over Golden State which should give the Suns' staff something to think about. Dragic hasn't played that well at the 2 spot in the past. Anyways, I just don't think this ragtag squad is good enough to keep up throughout the whole year. I can ultimately see them being overtaken by the Mavs and Grizzlies for the 7-8 spots. The Suns are a fun team to watch but they just don't have a contenders talent.
Dallas Mavericks: Pretender
I struggle with this one because Dirk is having a great year and this team has solid depth on the bench, but this team is just a little too old. Not the seasoned San Antonio Spurs kind of old where their players have aged like wine. The age of the starting 5 is 32, 28, 35, 35, 32. Not good numbers down the stretch through a long season. I believe in you Dirk, but I believe more that Time is unbeaten.
Golden State Warriors: Contender
The Warriors are top 10 in almost all major team stats across the board except for turnovers! Steph is having an amazing season so far but not much else has gone right for this team. Harrison Barnes, Klay Thompson and Andre Iguodala have been mired in slumps for a few weeks and it has held this team back tremendously. The defense also comes and goes with a second unit that is fighting to find its way with Jordan Crawford and the slumping Barnes. I'm excited for the small defensive burst that Festus Ezeli will provide once he comes back, but really, seeing Klay Thompson back in his early season form would be much better. At their best, this team can beat anybody.
Portland Trail Blazers: Contender
The Trail Blazers have found a balanced lineup and invested heavily in their bench this offseason. Everything they have done has worked. Currently 3rd in the West, the best scoring, best rebounding team in the NBA have already won more games than they did last year. LaMarcus Aldridge is a bonafide MVP candidate this year and Damian Lillard may already be a top 5 PG in the league. I wouldn't be surprised if Portland ends up in the NBA Finals.
Phoenix Suns: Pretender
The question here is, what happens when Bledsoe comes back from injury? Goran Dragic made a statement with 34 points in a win over Golden State which should give the Suns' staff something to think about. Dragic hasn't played that well at the 2 spot in the past. Anyways, I just don't think this ragtag squad is good enough to keep up throughout the whole year. I can ultimately see them being overtaken by the Mavs and Grizzlies for the 7-8 spots. The Suns are a fun team to watch but they just don't have a contenders talent.
Dallas Mavericks: Pretender
I struggle with this one because Dirk is having a great year and this team has solid depth on the bench, but this team is just a little too old. Not the seasoned San Antonio Spurs kind of old where their players have aged like wine. The age of the starting 5 is 32, 28, 35, 35, 32. Not good numbers down the stretch through a long season. I believe in you Dirk, but I believe more that Time is unbeaten.
Golden State Warriors: Contender
The Warriors are top 10 in almost all major team stats across the board except for turnovers! Steph is having an amazing season so far but not much else has gone right for this team. Harrison Barnes, Klay Thompson and Andre Iguodala have been mired in slumps for a few weeks and it has held this team back tremendously. The defense also comes and goes with a second unit that is fighting to find its way with Jordan Crawford and the slumping Barnes. I'm excited for the small defensive burst that Festus Ezeli will provide once he comes back, but really, seeing Klay Thompson back in his early season form would be much better. At their best, this team can beat anybody.
NBA Talk Midseason:
We're near the mid point of the NBA season and the Eastern Conference is just terrible. The Bobcats would make the playoffs if the season ended today. The freaking Bobcats! Once MKG develops any kind of offensive game this team could actually be a pretty good sleeper pick. The New York Knicks have somehow imploded beyond all expectations but still will probably sneak in once they find their groove. Portland is only a game and a half out of first place in the West and have turned their balanced starting 5 into the highest scoring team in the league. The Golden State Warriors could be really good when their bench starts producing. They lost one to Minnesota the other night because the bench was exposed in the 4th quarter. They will soon get Jermaine O'Neal and Festus Ezeli back soon so that should help but I'm disheartened by the all around poor game that Harrison Barnes is playing right now. The Warriors have potential to be the 3 seed in the West and be a dangerous playoff team but it hangs in the balance of their team growth in the second half of the season.
Guys having surprise seasons:
Guys having surprise seasons:
Isaiah Thomas, named after the Piston's legend because his father lost a bet, is averaging 21 points since becoming a starter and just posted a career high 38 against Indiana's vaunted defense. Thomas and Boogie Cousins have made Sacramento pretty watchable this year and the Kings could be a playoff caliber squad once they learn how to close out games.
I hope Detroit makes the playoffs so that I can watch Andre Drummond (averaging 12.6 ppg and 12.6 rebounds) on a semi-nightly basis. He is 3rd in the NBA in rebounds and 15th in the entire league in EWA (estimated wins added), showing how he has been growing into his potential throughout the year.
Brandan Wright of the Mavericks needs more minutes! 3rd in the NBA in true shooting percentage at .680 and is 11th in the NBA in Player Efficiency Rating ahead of MVP candidate Paul George! Wright deserves more than the 19 minutes per game but just cannot get on the floor with the type of season Dirk is having. That is a good problem to have for this greatly improved team.
Michael Carter-Williams has taken the league by storm since he had a triple double in the first week of the season with his all around solid play. 17.5 points, 6.7 assists, 5.9 rebounds. At 6'6" 185, the long lanky guard has range to guard shooters and the strength to drive and grab rebounds. Carter-Williams has far exceeded his draft spot of 11th overall and has dominated compared to his rookie class counterparts.
The Suns are the surprise team in the NBA even over Portland and Goran Dragic is the reason why. He has almost doubled his career mark in points per game, shooting just a tick under 50% this season while averaging 6 assists per game. Dragic has managed to lead a team, picked by many beat writers to finish last in the league, to six games above .500 with a chance to make some noise in the playoffs. He deserves Kobe's all star spot as much as anybody in the league.
I hope Detroit makes the playoffs so that I can watch Andre Drummond (averaging 12.6 ppg and 12.6 rebounds) on a semi-nightly basis. He is 3rd in the NBA in rebounds and 15th in the entire league in EWA (estimated wins added), showing how he has been growing into his potential throughout the year.
Brandan Wright of the Mavericks needs more minutes! 3rd in the NBA in true shooting percentage at .680 and is 11th in the NBA in Player Efficiency Rating ahead of MVP candidate Paul George! Wright deserves more than the 19 minutes per game but just cannot get on the floor with the type of season Dirk is having. That is a good problem to have for this greatly improved team.
Michael Carter-Williams has taken the league by storm since he had a triple double in the first week of the season with his all around solid play. 17.5 points, 6.7 assists, 5.9 rebounds. At 6'6" 185, the long lanky guard has range to guard shooters and the strength to drive and grab rebounds. Carter-Williams has far exceeded his draft spot of 11th overall and has dominated compared to his rookie class counterparts.
The Suns are the surprise team in the NBA even over Portland and Goran Dragic is the reason why. He has almost doubled his career mark in points per game, shooting just a tick under 50% this season while averaging 6 assists per game. Dragic has managed to lead a team, picked by many beat writers to finish last in the league, to six games above .500 with a chance to make some noise in the playoffs. He deserves Kobe's all star spot as much as anybody in the league.
NBA Playoff Predictions
With the season starting in just a few days, I thought I'd post my predictions for the 16 playoff seeds in the NBA.
East:
#1 Miami Heat: LeBron and the Heat are obviously the cream of crop in the NBA. I look for Dwayne Wade to have a bounce back season and for the Heat to easily win the east. I love the idea of a Miami/Cleveland first round matchup. 62-20
#2 Chicago Bulls: Derrick Rose is back! Last year the Bulls scored the 29th most points in the NBA. This team is physical enough to beat the Heat in the playoffs and Rose presents a difficult matchup for Miami. 55-27
#3 Indiana Pacers: As Paul George gets better, so do the Pacers. This team could very well end up in second in the playoffs and project to be the most physical team we have seen in years. With Miami's big 3 a year older and maybe a year weaker, this physical squad could knock them off with rebounding and toughness. 50-32
#4 Brooklyn Nets: This team seems ancient, but I'm sure that they can still ball. KG and Paul Pierce will give this team the leadership void that they previously had. I wonder if Jason Kidd will scrimmage with them in some practices, that would be awesome. I don't think that Mikhail Prokhorov can buy a championship, but I'm ready to see this improved team in action. 48-34
#5 New York Knicks: Last years number 2 seed figures to take a couple steps back just because of the upgrades to the other teams. Sorry Melo! I don't know what I think about the Bargnani trade, but if its the Bargnani from last year, I feel bad for the Knickenbockers. This team seems primed for self-combustion. 45-37
#6 Detroit Pistons: The Pistons are in the playoffs! Well not yet, but potentially! Floor spacing is obviously the key for a team trotting out Josh Smith, Andre Drummond, and Greg Monroe as starters. Watch out for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP) to eventually force his way to starting at 2-guard. The arrow is pointing up for Detroit. 45-37
#7 Milwaukee Bucks: The Bucks are the mired in mediocrity and seemed desperate to stay at the bottom of the playoff picture with their offseason. I'm intrigued to see how O.J. Mayo performs as the best offensive option on this team. Last year looked like a breakout season until he came back to Earth in the second half of the season. I feel bad for this fan base. 40-42
#8 Cleveland Cavaliers: If Kyrie doesn't miss any time this year and Andrew Bynum is active and back to his old self (back being the key word), this team could be a 6th seed. However, injuries could really doom this team. Dion Waiters and Anderson Varejao are the X-factors for this team. 39-43
West:
#1 Oklahoma City: The Thunder will be without Westbrook for the first 6 weeks this year, but KD will have no problem turning on the heat. Even though everyone in the West got better and OKC conceivably got worse this offseason, KD is still just too good. Serge Ibaka is getting better and better at mid-range shots and could be a 20-10 guy in Westbrook's absence. 59-23
#2 LA Clippers: Chris Paul stayed and got Doc Rivers to LA in the process. I think J.J. Reddick and Jared Dudley make lob city a force from outside. Chris Paul won't have to jack up as many 3s and Blake Griffin will see more space in the key. Matt Barnes is this teams x-factor as their best wing defender. This team can score in every way. 58-24
#3 San Antonio Spurs: Another year older, still at the top. The Spurs will quietly do what they always do, win games. Danny Green cam into his own in the NBA Finals and Kawhi Leonard is getting better and better. So there is some youth on this team. Tony Parker is still the second best point guard in the NBA and his shiftiness is the reason that the Spurs beat the Warriors in the playoffs last year. 56-26
#4 Golden State Warriors: The Dubs were the NBA's darling in last years playoffs and adding Iguodala makes them a legitimate threat to win the West. They got rid of Jarrett Jack, which might be addition by subtraction, and Harrison Barnes is primed to be a great 6th man. I love this team top to bottom. Draymond Green and Kent Bazemore are amazing guys to have on the bench and once Festus Ezeli comes back of the IR, the frontcourt will be pretty deep. 53-29
#5 Houston Rockets: How does Dwight Howard fit in with this Rockets team? Howard likes to slow things down and the rest of this team likes to speed things up. Another question, how does Omer Asik fit? You can't play Howard and Asik at the same time and it's only a matter of time before Asik is traded. Perhaps for Ryan Anderson? The 3-shooting stretch-4 for be a perfect fit in Houston and Asik would be dominant alongside Anthony Davis. 52-30
#6 Memphis Grizzlies: Memphis vs. San Antonio showdown in the first round of the playoffs equals another Memphis sweep? I like their starting 5 minus Pondexter, but I don't think they can score enough to keep up with any of the 5 formerly mentioned teams. Mike Miller could give Memphis a legit 3 point shooter, or he could play only 40 games, you never know. I don't think this team is built for the playoffs. 46-36
#7 Dallas Mavericks: The Monta Ellis signing was questionable for a team who ranked 27th in points allowed last year. I like the Jose Calderon signing, but not for that much money. It seems like Mark Cuban is just trying to get one more playoff season in the Dirk-era. They should have just resigned Tyson Chandler after their NBA Championship win instead of saving their money to get Ellis, Calderon, and Dalembert. Another dismal season in Dallas sports. 43-39
#8 New Orleans Pelicans: New Orleans is trying to start Tyreke Evans at 3. The former point guard didn't like the switch to 2 and I doubt he likes the switch to 3. That being said, I still like a starting 5 of Jrue Holiday, Eric Gordon, Evans, Anthony Davis, and Ryan Anderson. All of these guys can score and can defend decently well. Its really all about how this team gels. I would have kept Nerlens Noel and waited a year to make the playoffs instead of trading for Holiday, but the Pelicans are still on the upswing. The new name and new jerseys are all part of a new hope for a new New Orleans. NEW!!! 42-40
East:
#1 Miami Heat: LeBron and the Heat are obviously the cream of crop in the NBA. I look for Dwayne Wade to have a bounce back season and for the Heat to easily win the east. I love the idea of a Miami/Cleveland first round matchup. 62-20
#2 Chicago Bulls: Derrick Rose is back! Last year the Bulls scored the 29th most points in the NBA. This team is physical enough to beat the Heat in the playoffs and Rose presents a difficult matchup for Miami. 55-27
#3 Indiana Pacers: As Paul George gets better, so do the Pacers. This team could very well end up in second in the playoffs and project to be the most physical team we have seen in years. With Miami's big 3 a year older and maybe a year weaker, this physical squad could knock them off with rebounding and toughness. 50-32
#4 Brooklyn Nets: This team seems ancient, but I'm sure that they can still ball. KG and Paul Pierce will give this team the leadership void that they previously had. I wonder if Jason Kidd will scrimmage with them in some practices, that would be awesome. I don't think that Mikhail Prokhorov can buy a championship, but I'm ready to see this improved team in action. 48-34
#5 New York Knicks: Last years number 2 seed figures to take a couple steps back just because of the upgrades to the other teams. Sorry Melo! I don't know what I think about the Bargnani trade, but if its the Bargnani from last year, I feel bad for the Knickenbockers. This team seems primed for self-combustion. 45-37
#6 Detroit Pistons: The Pistons are in the playoffs! Well not yet, but potentially! Floor spacing is obviously the key for a team trotting out Josh Smith, Andre Drummond, and Greg Monroe as starters. Watch out for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP) to eventually force his way to starting at 2-guard. The arrow is pointing up for Detroit. 45-37
#7 Milwaukee Bucks: The Bucks are the mired in mediocrity and seemed desperate to stay at the bottom of the playoff picture with their offseason. I'm intrigued to see how O.J. Mayo performs as the best offensive option on this team. Last year looked like a breakout season until he came back to Earth in the second half of the season. I feel bad for this fan base. 40-42
#8 Cleveland Cavaliers: If Kyrie doesn't miss any time this year and Andrew Bynum is active and back to his old self (back being the key word), this team could be a 6th seed. However, injuries could really doom this team. Dion Waiters and Anderson Varejao are the X-factors for this team. 39-43
West:
#1 Oklahoma City: The Thunder will be without Westbrook for the first 6 weeks this year, but KD will have no problem turning on the heat. Even though everyone in the West got better and OKC conceivably got worse this offseason, KD is still just too good. Serge Ibaka is getting better and better at mid-range shots and could be a 20-10 guy in Westbrook's absence. 59-23
#2 LA Clippers: Chris Paul stayed and got Doc Rivers to LA in the process. I think J.J. Reddick and Jared Dudley make lob city a force from outside. Chris Paul won't have to jack up as many 3s and Blake Griffin will see more space in the key. Matt Barnes is this teams x-factor as their best wing defender. This team can score in every way. 58-24
#3 San Antonio Spurs: Another year older, still at the top. The Spurs will quietly do what they always do, win games. Danny Green cam into his own in the NBA Finals and Kawhi Leonard is getting better and better. So there is some youth on this team. Tony Parker is still the second best point guard in the NBA and his shiftiness is the reason that the Spurs beat the Warriors in the playoffs last year. 56-26
#4 Golden State Warriors: The Dubs were the NBA's darling in last years playoffs and adding Iguodala makes them a legitimate threat to win the West. They got rid of Jarrett Jack, which might be addition by subtraction, and Harrison Barnes is primed to be a great 6th man. I love this team top to bottom. Draymond Green and Kent Bazemore are amazing guys to have on the bench and once Festus Ezeli comes back of the IR, the frontcourt will be pretty deep. 53-29
#5 Houston Rockets: How does Dwight Howard fit in with this Rockets team? Howard likes to slow things down and the rest of this team likes to speed things up. Another question, how does Omer Asik fit? You can't play Howard and Asik at the same time and it's only a matter of time before Asik is traded. Perhaps for Ryan Anderson? The 3-shooting stretch-4 for be a perfect fit in Houston and Asik would be dominant alongside Anthony Davis. 52-30
#6 Memphis Grizzlies: Memphis vs. San Antonio showdown in the first round of the playoffs equals another Memphis sweep? I like their starting 5 minus Pondexter, but I don't think they can score enough to keep up with any of the 5 formerly mentioned teams. Mike Miller could give Memphis a legit 3 point shooter, or he could play only 40 games, you never know. I don't think this team is built for the playoffs. 46-36
#7 Dallas Mavericks: The Monta Ellis signing was questionable for a team who ranked 27th in points allowed last year. I like the Jose Calderon signing, but not for that much money. It seems like Mark Cuban is just trying to get one more playoff season in the Dirk-era. They should have just resigned Tyson Chandler after their NBA Championship win instead of saving their money to get Ellis, Calderon, and Dalembert. Another dismal season in Dallas sports. 43-39
#8 New Orleans Pelicans: New Orleans is trying to start Tyreke Evans at 3. The former point guard didn't like the switch to 2 and I doubt he likes the switch to 3. That being said, I still like a starting 5 of Jrue Holiday, Eric Gordon, Evans, Anthony Davis, and Ryan Anderson. All of these guys can score and can defend decently well. Its really all about how this team gels. I would have kept Nerlens Noel and waited a year to make the playoffs instead of trading for Holiday, but the Pelicans are still on the upswing. The new name and new jerseys are all part of a new hope for a new New Orleans. NEW!!! 42-40