We are now one game (per series) away from a potential Miami Heat vs. Indiana Pacers matchup in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Tying his career high in the postseason, LeBron James scored nearly half of the Heat's points in tonight's win in Brooklyn as the Heat took a 3-1 series lead.
James scored 49 points on 16-of-24 shooting including three-of-six from behind the arc and he added six boards, three steals and two assists.
In this series, James is shooting nearly 60 percent (59.7) from the field and is averaging 30.25 points per game. In addition, he's averaging 5.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.5 steals per game in the series.
The Heat will have an opportunity to close the series on Wednesday in Miami. (The Pacers host the Wizards in Game 5 of their series on Tuesday.)
Showing posts with label Indiana Pacers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Indiana Pacers. Show all posts
Monday, May 12, 2014
Monday, February 24, 2014
Consensus NBA Power Rankings, Week 18
Entering the 2013-14, the LeBron James-led Miami Heat were clearly the favorites to emerge out of the Eastern Conference in the playoffs.
Along with the Pacers (and the Nets to a lesser degree), the Bulls were one of the teams that seemed most likely to pose a threat to the Heat's potential opportunity for a three-peat.
Perception changed earlier in the season when Derrick Rose went down with another knee injury.
Via Sam Smith with the team's website, here are comments from Rose about the possibility of returning at any point this season for the Bulls and playing for team USA in the summer:
Even though they rank last in the NBA in scoring offense (92.5 points per game), only the Pacers (90.9 PPG allowed) have a stingier defense than the Bulls (92.3 PPG).
One of the league's most underrated players is Joakim Noah, who has been playing great lately.
Since January, Noah has averaged 13.54 points, 13.08 rebounds, 5.96 assists, 1.92 blocks and 0.88 steals per game. In his past seven games, he has double-digit assists in three of them and even had a triple-double earlier this month.
Compared to our power rankings last week, the Bulls have moved up from 13.00 to 10.50, which is just outside the top 10 in our power rankings. The Suns are currently 10th with an average ranking of 10.25.
- See our full 2013-14 NBA Power Rankings
Follow our updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
Along with the Pacers (and the Nets to a lesser degree), the Bulls were one of the teams that seemed most likely to pose a threat to the Heat's potential opportunity for a three-peat.
Perception changed earlier in the season when Derrick Rose went down with another knee injury.
Via Sam Smith with the team's website, here are comments from Rose about the possibility of returning at any point this season for the Bulls and playing for team USA in the summer:
“For sure, if my leg is feeling healthy I’m all in,” Rose said about the USA Basketball invite for this summer’s pre World Cup tournament. ”Of course I want to play for that team. Playing for that team, I think, helped the year I won MVP, just getting in a groove. I’m excited if I am able to play in it.On Sunday, the LeBron-less Heat beat the Bulls by 14 points, but the Bulls aren't a team that should necessarily be counted out.
“I haven’t even had a chance to think about it, to tell you truth,” Rose said about holding open the possibility of a return this season or in the playoffs. “I’m just worrying about my next stage in this process and that’s running. Right now I’m not. I’m on the Alter G (anti gravity treadmill) right now, running on that and hopefully I’ll be running without it pretty soon.
“I haven’t even asked; we haven’t even talked about it (a return schedule),” said Rose. “I just come every day, six days a week and try to do all my work and see how far it’s going to take me when I step back on the court.”
Even though they rank last in the NBA in scoring offense (92.5 points per game), only the Pacers (90.9 PPG allowed) have a stingier defense than the Bulls (92.3 PPG).
One of the league's most underrated players is Joakim Noah, who has been playing great lately.
Since January, Noah has averaged 13.54 points, 13.08 rebounds, 5.96 assists, 1.92 blocks and 0.88 steals per game. In his past seven games, he has double-digit assists in three of them and even had a triple-double earlier this month.
Compared to our power rankings last week, the Bulls have moved up from 13.00 to 10.50, which is just outside the top 10 in our power rankings. The Suns are currently 10th with an average ranking of 10.25.
- See our full 2013-14 NBA Power Rankings
Follow our updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
NBA Poll: Who will represent the Eastern Conference in the NBA Finals?
With nearly half of their conference's 12 All-Stars, the Heat (LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh) and Pacers (Paul George and Roy Hibbert) joined forces on Sunday to help lead the Eastern Conference to a win in the NBA All-Star Game.
As the "second half" is set to resume today, however, the Eastern Conference will essentially be a two-team race between those two squads.
At the moment, the Pacers (40-12) have the best record in the conference, but the Heat (37-14) seem less concerned about hosting a potential Game 7. The Raptors are a distant third in the standings (28-24).
Current odds to win the Eastern Conference (via Sportsbook.com): Pacers (5/6), Heat (1/1) and then Raptors and Nets are tied for third with 30/1 odds. The Heat will pick up after the All-Star Break with games against the Mavs on Tuesday and then the Thunder on Thursday. As great as Kevin Durant has been playing, he is expected to get back teammate Russell Westbrook for Thursday's showdown.
Could this be a potential NBA Finals preview? Or will the Pacers (or another team) represent the Eastern Conference in the NBA Finals?
Vote on more of our polls:
At the moment, the Pacers (40-12) have the best record in the conference, but the Heat (37-14) seem less concerned about hosting a potential Game 7. The Raptors are a distant third in the standings (28-24).
Current odds to win the Eastern Conference (via Sportsbook.com): Pacers (5/6), Heat (1/1) and then Raptors and Nets are tied for third with 30/1 odds. The Heat will pick up after the All-Star Break with games against the Mavs on Tuesday and then the Thunder on Thursday. As great as Kevin Durant has been playing, he is expected to get back teammate Russell Westbrook for Thursday's showdown.
Could this be a potential NBA Finals preview? Or will the Pacers (or another team) represent the Eastern Conference in the NBA Finals?
Vote on more of our polls:
Friday, February 14, 2014
Consensus NBA Power Rankings, All-Star Break
With NBA All-Star Game upon us, we are now at the unofficial midway point of the 2013-14 NBA season.
In reality, we hit the midway point of the season about a month ago as all teams have played anywhere from 51 to 55 regular-season games so far.
Considering the break in action in the regular season, it seems to be a good time to request a bold "second-half" prediction from each of our rankers.
Without further ado, here are some bold second-half predictions:
John Trifone
My bold prediction will be that the Golden State Warriors will make the Western Conference Finals. Currently, the Warriors sit in the No. 8 spot, and the Grizzlies are just 1.5 games behind them. It's certainly plausible that the Warriors could miss the playoffs altogether.
The West, in general, is so deep, that picking any one individual team to navigate it seems like a bit of a bold prediction. The Rockets, for example, have propelled themselves up to the No. 3 seed, but as strong of a team as they have, I wouldn't be surprised if they made a first-round exit. It seems to me that just about anyone in the West could be one-and-done or make a run.
In fact, aside from Phoenix and Dallas, I wouldn't be surprised in the least at any of the other six teams advancing to the NBA Finals. As tough of a road as it will be, I think that the Warriors have the talent to make the Conference Finals and give the Thunder a real run, if that is indeed who they meet there. Who knows? If Kevin Durant cools down a bit, the Warriors may even win the series.
Kevin Hanson
My bold prediction is that T'Wolves forward Kevin Love will average 30 points and 15 rebounds per game for the remainder of the season. While that may not seem outrageously bold for Mr. Double-Double, the last time a player averaged 30/15 for a full season was Bob McAdoo for the Buffalo Braves 40 years ago (1973-74).
While I'm not predicting that he boosts his full-season averages to those numbers, the fact that nobody has done it in 40 years illustrates how difficult it would be to maintain that pace over a significant stretch of the season.
In his first 50 games this season, Love had seven 30/15 games. Looking at each of those stats on an individual basis, Love had 30-plus points in 16 of 50 games and 15-plus rebounds in 18 of 50 opportunities.
Sean Beazley
Here are a couple of bold predictions:
This year, the MVP award will go to Kevin Durant rather than LeBron James, as Durant has been leading the Thunder to the league's best record even though the Thunder are missing All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook.
Durant has won the NBA scoring title three years in a row, and he is also on pace to win it for 2014 as well. At the All-Star Break, Durant has the following splits 31.5 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 5.5 APG and is shooting 41% from 3-point range. LeBron's splits are, 26.5 points per game, 7.0 boards per game, 6.6 assists per game.
Yes, King James has taken home the MVP award four of the last five years, but the way Durant is playing in absence of a star, will earn him his first MVP award.
- See our 2013-14 NBA Power Rankings at the All-Star Break here
Follow our updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
In reality, we hit the midway point of the season about a month ago as all teams have played anywhere from 51 to 55 regular-season games so far.
Considering the break in action in the regular season, it seems to be a good time to request a bold "second-half" prediction from each of our rankers.
Without further ado, here are some bold second-half predictions:
John Trifone
My bold prediction will be that the Golden State Warriors will make the Western Conference Finals. Currently, the Warriors sit in the No. 8 spot, and the Grizzlies are just 1.5 games behind them. It's certainly plausible that the Warriors could miss the playoffs altogether.
The West, in general, is so deep, that picking any one individual team to navigate it seems like a bit of a bold prediction. The Rockets, for example, have propelled themselves up to the No. 3 seed, but as strong of a team as they have, I wouldn't be surprised if they made a first-round exit. It seems to me that just about anyone in the West could be one-and-done or make a run.
In fact, aside from Phoenix and Dallas, I wouldn't be surprised in the least at any of the other six teams advancing to the NBA Finals. As tough of a road as it will be, I think that the Warriors have the talent to make the Conference Finals and give the Thunder a real run, if that is indeed who they meet there. Who knows? If Kevin Durant cools down a bit, the Warriors may even win the series.
Kevin Hanson
My bold prediction is that T'Wolves forward Kevin Love will average 30 points and 15 rebounds per game for the remainder of the season. While that may not seem outrageously bold for Mr. Double-Double, the last time a player averaged 30/15 for a full season was Bob McAdoo for the Buffalo Braves 40 years ago (1973-74).
While I'm not predicting that he boosts his full-season averages to those numbers, the fact that nobody has done it in 40 years illustrates how difficult it would be to maintain that pace over a significant stretch of the season.
In his first 50 games this season, Love had seven 30/15 games. Looking at each of those stats on an individual basis, Love had 30-plus points in 16 of 50 games and 15-plus rebounds in 18 of 50 opportunities.
Sean Beazley
Here are a couple of bold predictions:
- The Knicks get the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference (not so bold), but they will beat the Pacers in the first round of the playoffs.
- The Heat sweep their way through the Eastern Conference playoffs, only to get swept in the NBA Finals by Oklahoma City.
This year, the MVP award will go to Kevin Durant rather than LeBron James, as Durant has been leading the Thunder to the league's best record even though the Thunder are missing All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook.
Durant has won the NBA scoring title three years in a row, and he is also on pace to win it for 2014 as well. At the All-Star Break, Durant has the following splits 31.5 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 5.5 APG and is shooting 41% from 3-point range. LeBron's splits are, 26.5 points per game, 7.0 boards per game, 6.6 assists per game.
Yes, King James has taken home the MVP award four of the last five years, but the way Durant is playing in absence of a star, will earn him his first MVP award.
- See our 2013-14 NBA Power Rankings at the All-Star Break here
Follow our updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
Monday, January 27, 2014
Consensus NBA Power Rankings, Week 14
Now that we are at the midway point of the 2013-14 NBA season, we asked our power rankers for a midseason pick to win it all.
Here are their responses:
John Trifone: Miami Heat
At the midway point of the season, it's tough to pick any team to come out of the West. Teams like Memphis, Denver, and Minnesota, who would be vying for the three seed in the East, are currently on the outside looking in. If I had to pick right now, I would take Oklahoma City to come out of the West, although San Antonio, Portland, and Golden State are not too far behind. The Clippers and Rockets also certainly have a shot, but I think they are just a bit more of an underdog to do so.
The East is much easier, at least, to get down to two. It's pretty clear that barring a major upset, it's going to be Miami and Indiana in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Indiana has been the most impressive team in the NBA all year, but I'm still going to take them to fall short again this year to the Heat. Miami knows what they're doing, and they don't need to prove that they can win 70 games in the regular season. They can comfortably rest players whenever needed, and can still lock up the two seed without much of a problem. That means that they will have to be able to beat the Pacers in Indiana this summer, but they know that they can win on the road.
This might be the year that Indiana knocks off the two-time champs, but I believe that the Heat are still too strong, and will manage the team the way they need to in order to be playing their best ball when it matters most.
In a matchup of the NBA Finals two years ago, I like the Heat to come out on top once again. Although KD is having an MVP season, and will likely bring home that hardware, I expect LeBron James to take home another ring. Miami won their previous Finals matchup in five games, and although this one may be more competitive, I like the Heat to win in six games.
Kevin Hanson: Indiana Pacers
While winning the regular season may not be as high on the list of other contending teams, the Pacers clearly want the top seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs — and that makes sense. After all, the Heat have advanced to the Finals in the past three seasons and have won it all two years in a row. In addition, the Pacers were one game away, which was ultimately a loss in Miami, from getting to the NBA Finals.
The Pacers lead the NBA in scoring defense (90.2 points allowed per game) and have held their opponents to a league-low 41.3 percent from the field. Only the Thunder have a better rebounding differential than the Pacers.
Although LeBron James is still the best player on the planet, Paul George is one of the league's best defenders — and best all-around players, for that matter — to help contain LeBron. With Dwyane Wade (knee) not the same as he was several years ago, I think the Pacers get over the hump this year with a Game 7 win in Indy.
The Western Conference is much deeper and it seems that any team could emerge, but I think the Pacers will face the Thunder in the NBA Finals. However, the Pacers will win it all in six games.
Sean Beazley: Oklahoma City Thunder
I like Oklahoma City to beat Miami in 5.
I love OKC's supporting cast this year. Reggie Jackson has been playing great with Russell Westbrook out with injury, and Jeremy Lamb has been knocking down shots from outside. Their interior defense is very good with Serge Ibaka. And Kevin Durant has taken this team on his back the past couple of weeks and I think he will continue to do so even when Westbrook is back in the lineup.
The Heat are good enough to make it to the finals in the East, but I don't think their Big 3 is as dominant as in years past, and I think this is one of the reasons why King James leaves Miami at the end of his current deal.
* DraftKings: Play Daily Fantasy Basketball and get a 100-percent bonus (up to $600) on your initial deposit.
Dan Yanotchko: Indiana Pacers
I think this year will see a new NBA champion crowned, and it will go to the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers certainly have one of the best rosters in the league, led by their trio of Roy Hibbert, Paul George, and David West. The Pacers have the best lockdown defense in the game, and they lead the league in only allowing 90.2 points per game. The Pacers have the best depth, the defense, and they will have learned lessons from losing to Miami in the playoffs the last two years.
- See our full 2013-14 NBA Power Rankings for Week 14 here
Follow our updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
Here are their responses:
John Trifone: Miami Heat
At the midway point of the season, it's tough to pick any team to come out of the West. Teams like Memphis, Denver, and Minnesota, who would be vying for the three seed in the East, are currently on the outside looking in. If I had to pick right now, I would take Oklahoma City to come out of the West, although San Antonio, Portland, and Golden State are not too far behind. The Clippers and Rockets also certainly have a shot, but I think they are just a bit more of an underdog to do so.
The East is much easier, at least, to get down to two. It's pretty clear that barring a major upset, it's going to be Miami and Indiana in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Indiana has been the most impressive team in the NBA all year, but I'm still going to take them to fall short again this year to the Heat. Miami knows what they're doing, and they don't need to prove that they can win 70 games in the regular season. They can comfortably rest players whenever needed, and can still lock up the two seed without much of a problem. That means that they will have to be able to beat the Pacers in Indiana this summer, but they know that they can win on the road.
This might be the year that Indiana knocks off the two-time champs, but I believe that the Heat are still too strong, and will manage the team the way they need to in order to be playing their best ball when it matters most.
In a matchup of the NBA Finals two years ago, I like the Heat to come out on top once again. Although KD is having an MVP season, and will likely bring home that hardware, I expect LeBron James to take home another ring. Miami won their previous Finals matchup in five games, and although this one may be more competitive, I like the Heat to win in six games.
Kevin Hanson: Indiana Pacers
While winning the regular season may not be as high on the list of other contending teams, the Pacers clearly want the top seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs — and that makes sense. After all, the Heat have advanced to the Finals in the past three seasons and have won it all two years in a row. In addition, the Pacers were one game away, which was ultimately a loss in Miami, from getting to the NBA Finals.
The Pacers lead the NBA in scoring defense (90.2 points allowed per game) and have held their opponents to a league-low 41.3 percent from the field. Only the Thunder have a better rebounding differential than the Pacers.
Although LeBron James is still the best player on the planet, Paul George is one of the league's best defenders — and best all-around players, for that matter — to help contain LeBron. With Dwyane Wade (knee) not the same as he was several years ago, I think the Pacers get over the hump this year with a Game 7 win in Indy.
The Western Conference is much deeper and it seems that any team could emerge, but I think the Pacers will face the Thunder in the NBA Finals. However, the Pacers will win it all in six games.
Sean Beazley: Oklahoma City Thunder
I like Oklahoma City to beat Miami in 5.
I love OKC's supporting cast this year. Reggie Jackson has been playing great with Russell Westbrook out with injury, and Jeremy Lamb has been knocking down shots from outside. Their interior defense is very good with Serge Ibaka. And Kevin Durant has taken this team on his back the past couple of weeks and I think he will continue to do so even when Westbrook is back in the lineup.
The Heat are good enough to make it to the finals in the East, but I don't think their Big 3 is as dominant as in years past, and I think this is one of the reasons why King James leaves Miami at the end of his current deal.
* DraftKings: Play Daily Fantasy Basketball and get a 100-percent bonus (up to $600) on your initial deposit.
Dan Yanotchko: Indiana Pacers
I think this year will see a new NBA champion crowned, and it will go to the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers certainly have one of the best rosters in the league, led by their trio of Roy Hibbert, Paul George, and David West. The Pacers have the best lockdown defense in the game, and they lead the league in only allowing 90.2 points per game. The Pacers have the best depth, the defense, and they will have learned lessons from losing to Miami in the playoffs the last two years.
- See our full 2013-14 NBA Power Rankings for Week 14 here
Follow our updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
Monday, January 20, 2014
NBA Consensus Power Rankings, Week 13
Once again, the Indiana Pacers are atop our NBA consensus power rankings as we head into a new week.
With the league's best record (32-7), the Pacers have done it more so with defense than they have with offense. Currently, the Pacers rank 20th in the league in scoring offense, but they rank first in the league in team defense (88.2 points per game allowed) in scoring differential (+9.9 PPG).
In case you missed it, their (underrated) superstar Paul George took a steal in last night's win and turned it into a dunk worthy of a 50 in a slam dunk contest.
Here's the dunk:
George is currently averaging 23.2 points, 2.5 three's, 6.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.9 steals per game.
In addition to George, the Pacers have four other players averaging in double digits: Lance Stephenson (13.9), David West (12.3), Roy Hibbert (12.2) and George Hill (10.4).
- See our full 2013-14 NBA Power Rankings for Week 13 here
Follow our updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
* DraftKings: Play Daily Fantasy Basketball and get a 100-percent bonus (up to $600) on your initial deposit.
With the league's best record (32-7), the Pacers have done it more so with defense than they have with offense. Currently, the Pacers rank 20th in the league in scoring offense, but they rank first in the league in team defense (88.2 points per game allowed) in scoring differential (+9.9 PPG).
In case you missed it, their (underrated) superstar Paul George took a steal in last night's win and turned it into a dunk worthy of a 50 in a slam dunk contest.
Here's the dunk:
George is currently averaging 23.2 points, 2.5 three's, 6.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.9 steals per game.
In addition to George, the Pacers have four other players averaging in double digits: Lance Stephenson (13.9), David West (12.3), Roy Hibbert (12.2) and George Hill (10.4).
- See our full 2013-14 NBA Power Rankings for Week 13 here
Follow our updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
* DraftKings: Play Daily Fantasy Basketball and get a 100-percent bonus (up to $600) on your initial deposit.
Monday, January 6, 2014
Consensus NBA Power Rankings, Week 11
More than one-third of the way through the 2013-14 season, I decided to take a look at the odds to win the NBA Championship (via Sportsbook.ag).
While it should come as no surprise that the Miami Heat (3/2) have the lowest odds to win it all and the Pacers (3/1) are second, I am surprised a little bit by the Eastern Conference team that is third.
Before I get to that, the next seven teams (after the Heat/Pacers) all reside in the Western Conference: Thunder (6/1), Spurs (8/1), Clippers (12/1), Rockets, Blazers and Warriors (all 15/1) and Timberwolves (50/1).
Next in line are the Grizzlies and Mavs (60/1), who are tied with the Toronto Raptors.
After a slow start, a horrible one for the Atlantic Division as a whole, the Raptors are 16-16 and currently lead the division.
Even though they lost Sunday night to the Heat, the Raptors had won their previous five games and have won seven of their past nine games. The Raptors will get another tough game as they head to Indiana on Tuesday to take on the Pacers.
Shooting guard DeMar DeRozan continues to develop his game as he leads the team in scoring with a career-high 21.1 points per game. In addition, point guard Kyle Lowry is averaging 7.6 assists per game, which ranks ninth in the league, and 15.7 points per game, both of which are career highs.
Despite their horrible starts, however, the Nets are 2-0 and the Knicks are 2-1 so far in January. (The Knicks' loss was a two-point loss to the Rockets in Houston.)
It will be interesting to see if the Nets and/or Knicks can continue to turn around things now that the calendar has turned to 2014. Going into the season, the expectations for both teams were certainly much higher than those for the Raptors.
Right now, however, the Nets and Knicks both have 150/1 odds to win the NBA title.
While it should come as no surprise that the Miami Heat (3/2) have the lowest odds to win it all and the Pacers (3/1) are second, I am surprised a little bit by the Eastern Conference team that is third.
Before I get to that, the next seven teams (after the Heat/Pacers) all reside in the Western Conference: Thunder (6/1), Spurs (8/1), Clippers (12/1), Rockets, Blazers and Warriors (all 15/1) and Timberwolves (50/1).
Next in line are the Grizzlies and Mavs (60/1), who are tied with the Toronto Raptors.
After a slow start, a horrible one for the Atlantic Division as a whole, the Raptors are 16-16 and currently lead the division.
Even though they lost Sunday night to the Heat, the Raptors had won their previous five games and have won seven of their past nine games. The Raptors will get another tough game as they head to Indiana on Tuesday to take on the Pacers.
Shooting guard DeMar DeRozan continues to develop his game as he leads the team in scoring with a career-high 21.1 points per game. In addition, point guard Kyle Lowry is averaging 7.6 assists per game, which ranks ninth in the league, and 15.7 points per game, both of which are career highs.
Despite their horrible starts, however, the Nets are 2-0 and the Knicks are 2-1 so far in January. (The Knicks' loss was a two-point loss to the Rockets in Houston.)
It will be interesting to see if the Nets and/or Knicks can continue to turn around things now that the calendar has turned to 2014. Going into the season, the expectations for both teams were certainly much higher than those for the Raptors.
Right now, however, the Nets and Knicks both have 150/1 odds to win the NBA title.
Monday, December 23, 2013
2013-14 NBA Power Rankings, Week 9
Less than two months into the new season, the Portland Trail Blazers are only 10 wins from tying their 2012-13 win total.
One year after finishing 16 games below .500 (33-49), the Blazers are 18 games above .500 and have the league's best record at 23-5.
The Blazers have yet to lose back-to-back games and they have a few matchups against the league's best clubs between Christmas and New Year's.
Portland will face the Clippers, Heat and Thunder, all of whom are in the top six of our power rankings, over their next four games. They will also face the Pelicans during that stretch.
After that, however, they will face several below-mediocre squads to start the year: CHA (13-15), PHI (8-20), SAC (8-18), ORL (8-19), BOS (12-17) and CLE (10-16). Those six clubs all have losing records and are collectively 46 games under .500.
Although they rank in the bottom third in defense (102.1 points allowed per game), Portland is primarily winning with their offense as they lead the NBA in scoring (108.4 points per game). They also rank fourth in the league in rebounding (45.9 per game) and fifth in assists (23.5 per game).
Blazers power forward LaMarcus Aldridge is currently having the best season of his seven-year career. Aldridge is averaging 23.1 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.1 steals per game, all of which are career highs.
In addition to Aldridge, Damian Lillard (21.5 PPG) is also scoring more than 20 points per game. Both Wesley Matthews (16.3) and Nicolas Batum (14.0) are also scoring in double-digits as well.
Compared to the previous week, the Blazers edged up by just one-quarter point in our Consensus NBA Power Rankings heading into Week 9.
Despite compiling the best record in the NBA up to this point, the Blazers are currently third in our power rankings behind both the Heat and Pacers. In fact, this is the first week since Week 1 that the Heat are atop our power rankings.
- See our full power rankings here
Follow HitTheBoards.com: Twitter | Facebook | Google+
One year after finishing 16 games below .500 (33-49), the Blazers are 18 games above .500 and have the league's best record at 23-5.
The Blazers have yet to lose back-to-back games and they have a few matchups against the league's best clubs between Christmas and New Year's.
Portland will face the Clippers, Heat and Thunder, all of whom are in the top six of our power rankings, over their next four games. They will also face the Pelicans during that stretch.
After that, however, they will face several below-mediocre squads to start the year: CHA (13-15), PHI (8-20), SAC (8-18), ORL (8-19), BOS (12-17) and CLE (10-16). Those six clubs all have losing records and are collectively 46 games under .500.
Although they rank in the bottom third in defense (102.1 points allowed per game), Portland is primarily winning with their offense as they lead the NBA in scoring (108.4 points per game). They also rank fourth in the league in rebounding (45.9 per game) and fifth in assists (23.5 per game).
Blazers power forward LaMarcus Aldridge is currently having the best season of his seven-year career. Aldridge is averaging 23.1 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.1 steals per game, all of which are career highs.
In addition to Aldridge, Damian Lillard (21.5 PPG) is also scoring more than 20 points per game. Both Wesley Matthews (16.3) and Nicolas Batum (14.0) are also scoring in double-digits as well.
Compared to the previous week, the Blazers edged up by just one-quarter point in our Consensus NBA Power Rankings heading into Week 9.
Despite compiling the best record in the NBA up to this point, the Blazers are currently third in our power rankings behind both the Heat and Pacers. In fact, this is the first week since Week 1 that the Heat are atop our power rankings.
- See our full power rankings here
Follow HitTheBoards.com: Twitter | Facebook | Google+
Friday, November 22, 2013
Lance Stephenson has triple-double vs. Celtics
Before the 2013-14 season, Pacers shooting guard Lance Stephenson never had double-digit assists in a game. In addition, he had 10 rebounds only twice in his career.
That said, Stephenson had a triple-double with 10 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists tonight against the Celtics and added a season-high four steals as well.
With a triple-double in 34 minutes on Nov. 11th against the Grizzlies as well, Stephenson now has two triple-doubles, the first two of his career, in his past five games.
Stephenson is averaging 13.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 5.4 assists this season.
That said, Stephenson had a triple-double with 10 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists tonight against the Celtics and added a season-high four steals as well.
With a triple-double in 34 minutes on Nov. 11th against the Grizzlies as well, Stephenson now has two triple-doubles, the first two of his career, in his past five games.
Stephenson is averaging 13.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 5.4 assists this season.
Sunday, November 10, 2013
2013-14 NBA Power Rankings, Week 3
The Indiana Pacers have continued their hot start and are now the sole remaining unbeaten team this season.
Therefore, it's shouldn't be much of a surprise that they are the No. 1 team in our Week 3 Consensus NBA Power Rankings.
Just as impressive as winning their first seven games to open the season, the Pacers had to win four of those games during a five-day stretch.
After their run in the postseason last year, the goal is obviously not to "win" the regular season. One of the things that will certainly help prolong their playoff run in 2014, however, would be to host more home games.
The Pacers won eight of nine of their home playoff games last year and having home-court advantage in each series could potentially help them go deeper in the playoffs this season.
That said, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and the Miami Heat are still the team to beat as two-time defending champions, but the Pacers are arguably the most complete team in the league.
Pacers small forward Paul George is one of the most complete players in the league. George is currently averaging 25.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.7 steals per game. In addition, he's shooting 42.9 percent from behind the arc and 84.8 percent from the line.
With George, Roy Hibbert and David West plus Luis Scola off the bench, the Pacers also have one of the league's best front courts. Hibbert currently ranks second in the NBA in blocks (4.29 per game).
Although the Pacers rank in the bottom 10 in the league in scoring offense (94.9 points per game), they will soon get back Danny Granger from his strained calf. With a career average of 18.1 points per game and as much as 25.8 PPG (2008-09), Granger will help the team's offense when he returns.
That said, the Pacers are holding teams to just 85.3 points per game, which leads the NBA by a wide margin. The Bulls and Spurs rank second at 93.0 PPG allowed. In addition, their opponents are only shooting 38.9 percent from the field, which is an NBA low as well.
The Pacers will host the Grizzlies and Bucks on Nov. 11 and 15, respectively, as they look to extend their winning streak.
- View our full 2013-14 NBA Consensus Power Rankings heading into Week 3
Follow our updates: Twitter | Facebook | Google+
Therefore, it's shouldn't be much of a surprise that they are the No. 1 team in our Week 3 Consensus NBA Power Rankings.
Just as impressive as winning their first seven games to open the season, the Pacers had to win four of those games during a five-day stretch.
After their run in the postseason last year, the goal is obviously not to "win" the regular season. One of the things that will certainly help prolong their playoff run in 2014, however, would be to host more home games.
The Pacers won eight of nine of their home playoff games last year and having home-court advantage in each series could potentially help them go deeper in the playoffs this season.
That said, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and the Miami Heat are still the team to beat as two-time defending champions, but the Pacers are arguably the most complete team in the league.
Pacers small forward Paul George is one of the most complete players in the league. George is currently averaging 25.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.7 steals per game. In addition, he's shooting 42.9 percent from behind the arc and 84.8 percent from the line.
With George, Roy Hibbert and David West plus Luis Scola off the bench, the Pacers also have one of the league's best front courts. Hibbert currently ranks second in the NBA in blocks (4.29 per game).
Although the Pacers rank in the bottom 10 in the league in scoring offense (94.9 points per game), they will soon get back Danny Granger from his strained calf. With a career average of 18.1 points per game and as much as 25.8 PPG (2008-09), Granger will help the team's offense when he returns.
That said, the Pacers are holding teams to just 85.3 points per game, which leads the NBA by a wide margin. The Bulls and Spurs rank second at 93.0 PPG allowed. In addition, their opponents are only shooting 38.9 percent from the field, which is an NBA low as well.
The Pacers will host the Grizzlies and Bucks on Nov. 11 and 15, respectively, as they look to extend their winning streak.
- View our full 2013-14 NBA Consensus Power Rankings heading into Week 3
Follow our updates: Twitter | Facebook | Google+
Sunday, October 27, 2013
2013-14 Consensus NBA Power Rankings, Week 1
Earlier this offseason, Kyle Baillargeon, one of our NBA contributors, made his preseason prediction for which team will win the NBA Finals next June.
It should come as little surprise that Kyle predicted that LeBron James and the Miami Heat will win their third NBA title in as many seasons.
After all, the Heat are prohibitive favorites to win the title. Sportsbook.ag has the odds set for the Heat at 12/5. The next closest are the Thunder and Clippers, who have 7/1 and 8/1 odds, respectively.
Among Eastern Conference teams, the Bulls are next at 9/1 followed by the Nets (12/1) and Pacers (14/1). The Spurs and Rockets also have 12/1 odds.
There are only three other franchises that have won three consecutive championships: Celtics, Lakers and Bulls. So pulling off a "three-peat" would put LeBron and the franchise in rarified company.
Regardless of conference, which team poses the greatest threat to a Miami Heat "three-peat" this season?
John (follow on Twitter): Chicago Bulls
I'll buy into the hype and say that the Chicago Bulls pose the greatest threat to the Heat's chances to "three-peat."
The physical play that the Bulls are notorious for is something with which Miami struggles, and getting Derrick Rose back healthy is an obvious game-changer for Chicago. They are a good young team with enough size and depth to be legit championship contender.
Heading into the start of the season, I'd give the Bulls the best chance to knock off the Heat.
Kevin (follow on Twitter): Chicago Bulls
While Kevin Durant is the second-best player in the league and the Thunder have the second-lowest odds to win it all, I think the Heat's stiffest competition resides in the East. Deciding between the Pacers and Bulls is tough, however.
The Bulls get back Derrick Rose, who is the only player not named LeBron to win the MVP award in the past five years. Coach Tom Thibodeau has the team playing tough hard-nosed defense and they hung tough last year despite injuries.
On the other hand, the Pacers have one of the league's best defenses as well and Paul George is one of the best players and defenders in the league and should be more of a household name than he is. In addition, they get back Danny Granger, who led them in scoring two seasons ago, and added Luis Scola.
For the purpose of answering this (technically my own) question, I will say it's the Bulls since they will get one of the top three to five players in the league back.
[On a side note, I love the fact that there appears to be some real animosity brewing within the Eastern Conference.]
Dan (follow on Twitter): Indiana Pacers
To me, the "Heatles" are on the inside track to have a three-peat, (trademarked by Pat Riley, funny enough), but they still do have one obstacle standing in their way. The Indiana Pacers pose the biggest threat to the Heat, as they have the best possible matchup against LeBron and crew.
The Pacers have the most effective big man in Roy Hibbert that counters the Heat's small-ball lineup, and also they will benefit from having their best scorer in Danny Granger back this year. If any team has learned to beat Miami, it will be the Pacers, as hopefully they will keep Dwyane Wade from referring to himself as four, as he calls himself "three" right now.
Sean (follow on Twitter): Houston Rockets
While I do think the Heat are the favorites to win another championship this year, if I had to bet the Hear or the field, I would take the field all day.
I think any team that is ranked in my top 10 has a legit chance at winning a title. I am going to go with Houston. I know a lot of people don't like Dwight Howard, but he is the missing piece that the Rockets needed. Howard is still the best defensive player in the game, and a matchup nightmare in particular vs. the Heat.
The Rockets also have the ability to win games draining three's. Houston was second in the NBA last year in both scoring, and three pointers made.
To view where all 30 NBA teams appear in our initial 2013-14 NBA Consensus Power Rankings, click here.
Follow our updates: Twitter | Facebook | Google+
It should come as little surprise that Kyle predicted that LeBron James and the Miami Heat will win their third NBA title in as many seasons.
After all, the Heat are prohibitive favorites to win the title. Sportsbook.ag has the odds set for the Heat at 12/5. The next closest are the Thunder and Clippers, who have 7/1 and 8/1 odds, respectively.
Among Eastern Conference teams, the Bulls are next at 9/1 followed by the Nets (12/1) and Pacers (14/1). The Spurs and Rockets also have 12/1 odds.
There are only three other franchises that have won three consecutive championships: Celtics, Lakers and Bulls. So pulling off a "three-peat" would put LeBron and the franchise in rarified company.
Regardless of conference, which team poses the greatest threat to a Miami Heat "three-peat" this season?
John (follow on Twitter): Chicago Bulls
I'll buy into the hype and say that the Chicago Bulls pose the greatest threat to the Heat's chances to "three-peat."
The physical play that the Bulls are notorious for is something with which Miami struggles, and getting Derrick Rose back healthy is an obvious game-changer for Chicago. They are a good young team with enough size and depth to be legit championship contender.
Heading into the start of the season, I'd give the Bulls the best chance to knock off the Heat.
Kevin (follow on Twitter): Chicago Bulls
While Kevin Durant is the second-best player in the league and the Thunder have the second-lowest odds to win it all, I think the Heat's stiffest competition resides in the East. Deciding between the Pacers and Bulls is tough, however.
The Bulls get back Derrick Rose, who is the only player not named LeBron to win the MVP award in the past five years. Coach Tom Thibodeau has the team playing tough hard-nosed defense and they hung tough last year despite injuries.
On the other hand, the Pacers have one of the league's best defenses as well and Paul George is one of the best players and defenders in the league and should be more of a household name than he is. In addition, they get back Danny Granger, who led them in scoring two seasons ago, and added Luis Scola.
For the purpose of answering this (technically my own) question, I will say it's the Bulls since they will get one of the top three to five players in the league back.
[On a side note, I love the fact that there appears to be some real animosity brewing within the Eastern Conference.]
Dan (follow on Twitter): Indiana Pacers
To me, the "Heatles" are on the inside track to have a three-peat, (trademarked by Pat Riley, funny enough), but they still do have one obstacle standing in their way. The Indiana Pacers pose the biggest threat to the Heat, as they have the best possible matchup against LeBron and crew.
The Pacers have the most effective big man in Roy Hibbert that counters the Heat's small-ball lineup, and also they will benefit from having their best scorer in Danny Granger back this year. If any team has learned to beat Miami, it will be the Pacers, as hopefully they will keep Dwyane Wade from referring to himself as four, as he calls himself "three" right now.
Sean (follow on Twitter): Houston Rockets
While I do think the Heat are the favorites to win another championship this year, if I had to bet the Hear or the field, I would take the field all day.
I think any team that is ranked in my top 10 has a legit chance at winning a title. I am going to go with Houston. I know a lot of people don't like Dwight Howard, but he is the missing piece that the Rockets needed. Howard is still the best defensive player in the game, and a matchup nightmare in particular vs. the Heat.
The Rockets also have the ability to win games draining three's. Houston was second in the NBA last year in both scoring, and three pointers made.
To view where all 30 NBA teams appear in our initial 2013-14 NBA Consensus Power Rankings, click here.
Follow our updates: Twitter | Facebook | Google+
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Eastern Conference Finals Prediction: Heat vs. Pacers (Trifone)
The Miami Heat
are playing as well as anybody right now, and were able to close out
the Bulls in four consecutive games, after Chicago's Game 1 upset.
Dwyane Wade has been awful for the most part, although he came on and
had a few key plays in the close-out game of the Semi-Final round.
Chris Bosh has picked up the slack , and Norris Cole, among others, has
also been a big contributor.
The
Pacers fell off everyone's radar, closing the regular season in very mediocre
fashion. They came to play in the playoffs, though, and were clearly
the better team against the Knicks. Paul George and Roy Hibbert have
been key factors in Indiana's success, but I think David West may be the
toughest matchup in the upcoming series against Miami.
Indiana can, and likely will, win the rebounding matchup, but I don't think they're going to have enough to win the series.
LeBron James
had a tough series against Chicago, a team that usually gives him some
trouble. Still, he managed to put up solid numbers, and put his team in
a position to win each game. I expect LeBron to be great in the
Conference Finals, and Miami to advance to the NBA Finals in a series that
is not as interesting as the Spurs/Grizzlies (see my prediction for that series here). The Pacers are a tough
team, but they're not on the same level as the Heat. I like Miami in
five.
Series Prediction: Heat in 5 Games
[Note: This post is from John Trifone. See his other basketball posts here and/or follow him on Twitter @JohnnyT0122.]
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Roy Hibbert: 20 points, 15 boards, 5 blocks vs. MIL
In tonight's win over the Bucks, Pacers center Roy Hibbert had the best game of his season so far.
Hibbert finished with 20 points, which ties his season high, 15 rebounds, which is a season high, and five blocked shots.
It was only Hibbert's eighth double-double in 34 games. One of those double-doubles was actually a triple-double when he added 11 blocks. Last year, he had 21 double-doubles in 63 games.
Hibbert is averaging a career-low 9.79 points per game in addition to 8.24 rebounds and a career-high 2.74 blocked shots per game.
Hibbert finished with 20 points, which ties his season high, 15 rebounds, which is a season high, and five blocked shots.
It was only Hibbert's eighth double-double in 34 games. One of those double-doubles was actually a triple-double when he added 11 blocks. Last year, he had 21 double-doubles in 63 games.
Hibbert is averaging a career-low 9.79 points per game in addition to 8.24 rebounds and a career-high 2.74 blocked shots per game.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Eastern Conference Preseason Predictions for the 2012-13 NBA Season
With NBA training camps opening up, it's time for preseason predictions. Kyle Baillargeon takes a team-by-team look into his crystal ball of all 30 NBA teams.
Here is how Kyle sees the Eastern Conference playing out:
1. Miami Heat - 64-18
The champs are back and they brought Ray Allen with them for this round. Allen will find himself open far more often than he did last year, and he'll make the most of it. Miami may even make a run for 70.
2. Boston Celtics - 61-21
Retooled and reloaded, the Celtics have been seemingly at the end of their run for the last three years. But they keeping coming back, ready to contend. This squad is bigger up front and could have the best four-guard rotation in the league.
3. Philadelphia 76ers - 50-32
Adding Bynum is huge for Philly, so long as he stays healthy. Will the team miss Iguodala, though? If Evan Turner plays to his potential, then the answer to that question is no.
4. Indiana Pacers - 48-34
With more teams going small at the center position, Roy Hibbert is somewhat of an anomaly. The Pacers were built to succeed in a short season, but how will this team fare over 82 games?
5. Milwaukee Bucks - 44-38
The dropoff is steep in the Eastern Conference, and this number of wins says more about how bad the rest of the conference is as opposed to how good the Bucks are. Jennings, Ellis and crew should have no problem making the playoffs, where they'll hope to make some noise.
6. Brooklyn Nets - 41-41
A tough team to determine, considering the general overhaul. Deron Williams and Joe Johnson is one of the strongest backcourts in the game. And don't underestimate how the move to Brooklyn could positively effect the team's psyche.
7. Chicago Bulls - 40-42
It's going to be a long year for the Bulls, though they did play decently for stretches without Rose last year. The team is not completely devoid of talent, but they just can't expect to contend without their star. Rose may be ready sometime after the All-Star break, but the Bulls may be better off tanking the season and hoping for a high pick.
8. Atlanta Hawks - 40-42
The Hawks are in a quasi-rebuilding mode, as they still have enough talent to sneak into the playoffs. However, if they start to slide downhill in the middle of the season, don't be surprised to see Josh Smith on his way out sooner rather than later.
9. Cleveland Cavaliers - 36-46
Irving is the real deal, and this team could surprise people in the east. They'll definitely be an exciting team, which is all you can ask for right now in Cleveland.
10. Toronto Raptors - 35-47
Valanciunas was considered by many as one of the top prospects out of his draft, and now he gets to show Toronto what they waited for. There's not a whole lot else to be excited for in Toronto, as it seems as though they based their entire offseason on trying to get, and subsequently failing to get, Steve Nash.
11. New York Knicks - 35-47
It's tough to make heads or tails of what the Knicks are trying to accomplish. Carmelo and Amare don't seem to work entirely well together. Jason Kidd would have been a great addition if he were five years younger. Meanwhile, Rasheed Wallace should be a wonderful influence on whatever young players the Knicks have.
12. Detroit Pistons - 33-49
Detroit may have themselves a bright future, but they'll have to make sure they don't waste their cap space after this season like they did a few years ago. In a perfect world, everyone will stay healthy, they'll show some signs of real potential, and they'll get a high pick.
13. Washington Wizards - 33-49
John Wall is not Derrick Rose or Kyrie Irving, but he is still ultra talented. This is his team, and he needs to raise his game. If he does, then he and Bradley Beal could make for a great young backcourt.
14. Charlotte Bobcats - 25-57
The Bobcats did a great job of not screwing up their pick this year, and MKG is a great talent. Kemba Walker has the keys to the squad now, and he can definitely make things happen on occasion. This team is still a ways away, but hopefully their front office will make it a streak of good draft picks next year.
15. Orlando Magic - 13-69
Not many good things to say about Orlando. They didn't get much for the best center in the league. They would have been smart to stick with Van Gundy, however.
Later today, we will post Kyle's predictions for the Western Conference.
Follow our basketball tweets and/or like us Facebook to keep track of our updates.
Here is how Kyle sees the Eastern Conference playing out:
1. Miami Heat - 64-18
The champs are back and they brought Ray Allen with them for this round. Allen will find himself open far more often than he did last year, and he'll make the most of it. Miami may even make a run for 70.
2. Boston Celtics - 61-21
Retooled and reloaded, the Celtics have been seemingly at the end of their run for the last three years. But they keeping coming back, ready to contend. This squad is bigger up front and could have the best four-guard rotation in the league.
3. Philadelphia 76ers - 50-32
Adding Bynum is huge for Philly, so long as he stays healthy. Will the team miss Iguodala, though? If Evan Turner plays to his potential, then the answer to that question is no.
4. Indiana Pacers - 48-34
With more teams going small at the center position, Roy Hibbert is somewhat of an anomaly. The Pacers were built to succeed in a short season, but how will this team fare over 82 games?
5. Milwaukee Bucks - 44-38
The dropoff is steep in the Eastern Conference, and this number of wins says more about how bad the rest of the conference is as opposed to how good the Bucks are. Jennings, Ellis and crew should have no problem making the playoffs, where they'll hope to make some noise.
6. Brooklyn Nets - 41-41
A tough team to determine, considering the general overhaul. Deron Williams and Joe Johnson is one of the strongest backcourts in the game. And don't underestimate how the move to Brooklyn could positively effect the team's psyche.
7. Chicago Bulls - 40-42
It's going to be a long year for the Bulls, though they did play decently for stretches without Rose last year. The team is not completely devoid of talent, but they just can't expect to contend without their star. Rose may be ready sometime after the All-Star break, but the Bulls may be better off tanking the season and hoping for a high pick.
8. Atlanta Hawks - 40-42
The Hawks are in a quasi-rebuilding mode, as they still have enough talent to sneak into the playoffs. However, if they start to slide downhill in the middle of the season, don't be surprised to see Josh Smith on his way out sooner rather than later.
9. Cleveland Cavaliers - 36-46
Irving is the real deal, and this team could surprise people in the east. They'll definitely be an exciting team, which is all you can ask for right now in Cleveland.
10. Toronto Raptors - 35-47
Valanciunas was considered by many as one of the top prospects out of his draft, and now he gets to show Toronto what they waited for. There's not a whole lot else to be excited for in Toronto, as it seems as though they based their entire offseason on trying to get, and subsequently failing to get, Steve Nash.
11. New York Knicks - 35-47
It's tough to make heads or tails of what the Knicks are trying to accomplish. Carmelo and Amare don't seem to work entirely well together. Jason Kidd would have been a great addition if he were five years younger. Meanwhile, Rasheed Wallace should be a wonderful influence on whatever young players the Knicks have.
12. Detroit Pistons - 33-49
Detroit may have themselves a bright future, but they'll have to make sure they don't waste their cap space after this season like they did a few years ago. In a perfect world, everyone will stay healthy, they'll show some signs of real potential, and they'll get a high pick.
13. Washington Wizards - 33-49
John Wall is not Derrick Rose or Kyrie Irving, but he is still ultra talented. This is his team, and he needs to raise his game. If he does, then he and Bradley Beal could make for a great young backcourt.
14. Charlotte Bobcats - 25-57
The Bobcats did a great job of not screwing up their pick this year, and MKG is a great talent. Kemba Walker has the keys to the squad now, and he can definitely make things happen on occasion. This team is still a ways away, but hopefully their front office will make it a streak of good draft picks next year.
15. Orlando Magic - 13-69
Not many good things to say about Orlando. They didn't get much for the best center in the league. They would have been smart to stick with Van Gundy, however.
Later today, we will post Kyle's predictions for the Western Conference.
Follow our basketball tweets and/or like us Facebook to keep track of our updates.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)