Before missing Thursday's game in Brooklyn due to his ankle, Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo had double-digit assists in every game he played this season.
Not only did he have double-digit assists against the Raptors today, he essentially had two games worth of double-digit assists.
For the second time this season, Rondo finished with 20 assists in a game although he finished with only six points for a second consecutive game.
On the season, Rondo leads the league with 13.4 assists per game and now has more assists (121) than points (120) through nine games.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Nuggets PF Kenneth Faried gets 4th Double-Double in 5 Games
It took two overtime periods for the Nuggets to beat the Warriors last night and Denver's Kenneth Faried played nearly 48 minutes. (It was only his third game with at least 30 minutes played.)
On eight-of-13 shooting, Faried scored 18 points, his fifth straight game in double figures.
In addition, Faried grabbed 17 rebounds, blocked three shots and had two steals, all of which are season highs.
Nine of Faried's 17 rebounds last night were offensive rebounds and he has more offensive rebounds (39) than defensive boards (36) this season.
During the past five games, Faried has four double-doubles. During those five games, he is averaging 17.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and 1.0 steals per game.
While he is shooting 56.0 percent from the field, he has made only 48.1 percent of his free throws. While he is not a great free throw shooter, he shot 66.5 from the line last year so those numbers should improve.
On eight-of-13 shooting, Faried scored 18 points, his fifth straight game in double figures.
In addition, Faried grabbed 17 rebounds, blocked three shots and had two steals, all of which are season highs.
Nine of Faried's 17 rebounds last night were offensive rebounds and he has more offensive rebounds (39) than defensive boards (36) this season.
During the past five games, Faried has four double-doubles. During those five games, he is averaging 17.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and 1.0 steals per game.
While he is shooting 56.0 percent from the field, he has made only 48.1 percent of his free throws. While he is not a great free throw shooter, he shot 66.5 from the line last year so those numbers should improve.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Greg Monroe has triple-double vs. Kings
The Pistons dropped a fifth consecutive game to start the season, but it was certainly not Greg Monroe's fault.
Monroe had a career-high 11 assists, which is four more than he had in his other four games this season combined.
In the process, Monroe finished with a triple-double, the first of his NBA career. In addition to his 11 dimes, Monroe scored 21 points on 8-of-15 shooting and grabbed a season-high 12 rebounds.
While he got off to a slow start in the team's first three games (no double-doubles), he has had strong back-to-back performances (double-double and triple-double).
On the season, he is averaging 16.0 points, 8.6 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game.
Monroe had a career-high 11 assists, which is four more than he had in his other four games this season combined.
In the process, Monroe finished with a triple-double, the first of his NBA career. In addition to his 11 dimes, Monroe scored 21 points on 8-of-15 shooting and grabbed a season-high 12 rebounds.
While he got off to a slow start in the team's first three games (no double-doubles), he has had strong back-to-back performances (double-double and triple-double).
On the season, he is averaging 16.0 points, 8.6 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Lakers PG Steve Nash out for at least a week
Lakers point guard Steve Nash sat out of Friday night's loss, the team's third straight to start the season, and he's going to miss (at least) a few more games.
According to NBA.com's John Schuhmann, the Lakers announced that Nash will miss at least a week with a "small non-displaced fracture in the head of his fibula."
Through two games, Nash has shot 4-of-12 from the field to score only nine points with eight assists in 50 minutes played.
With Nash out, Steve Blake played 39 minutes and eight points, two assists and one rebound last night. He should continue to get plenty of minutes while Nash is out.
According to NBA.com's John Schuhmann, the Lakers announced that Nash will miss at least a week with a "small non-displaced fracture in the head of his fibula."
Through two games, Nash has shot 4-of-12 from the field to score only nine points with eight assists in 50 minutes played.
With Nash out, Steve Blake played 39 minutes and eight points, two assists and one rebound last night. He should continue to get plenty of minutes while Nash is out.
Josh Smith won't travel with Hawks to OKC
Per Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Hawks forward Josh Smith will not travel with the team to Oklahoma City for Saturday's game.
Smith will miss the game due to a sprained right ankle.
In the team's season opener against the Rockets last night, Smith finished with 18 points on 9-of-21 shooting, 10 rebounds and three blocks in 41 minutes.
After tonight's game, the Hawks don't play again until Wednesday night against the Pacers.
Smith will miss the game due to a sprained right ankle.
In the team's season opener against the Rockets last night, Smith finished with 18 points on 9-of-21 shooting, 10 rebounds and three blocks in 41 minutes.
After tonight's game, the Hawks don't play again until Wednesday night against the Pacers.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Kevin Love out 6-8 weeks with broken hand
Timberwolves forward Kevin Love will miss the next six to eight weeks with a broken hand.
According to reports, Love broke his hand while working out at his condo complex before today's practice began.
Coincidentally, Love broke his hand almost three years ago today, as Jerry Zgoda of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune tweets, and missed 18 games of the season.
With Love out up to eight weeks, it will give Derrick Williams, the second-overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft, an opportunity for more minutes.
According to reports, Love broke his hand while working out at his condo complex before today's practice began.
Coincidentally, Love broke his hand almost three years ago today, as Jerry Zgoda of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune tweets, and missed 18 games of the season.
A little perspective: Love broke one metacarpal in his left hand during 2009 preseason game and missed first 18 games, returning Dec. 4Love ranked second in the NBA in rebounding (13.3 per game) and fourth in scoring (26.0 per game).
— Jerry Zgoda(@JerryZgoda) October 17, 2012
With Love out up to eight weeks, it will give Derrick Williams, the second-overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft, an opportunity for more minutes.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
NBA Finals Preseason Predictions for the 2012-13 Season
Earlier in the week, Kyle Baillargeon made his preseason predictions with final regular-season records for all 30 NBA teams.
[His team-by-team predictions here: Eastern Conference - Western Conference]
Of course, "winning" the regular season doesn't mean much unless you parlay that home-court advantage into a title.
With that said, Kyle makes his predictions for the conference and NBA Finals below:
Eastern Conference Finals: Boston over Miami in six games
The Heat can expect to be back in the finals for many years to come, and will likely win at least a few more, so long as LeBron is still there. But the retooled Boston Celtics will put that dynasty on hold for the 2012-2013 season. This Celtics team is on a mission to win. More importantly though, this is the most complete Celtics team since the 07-08 squad. The Heat still have Lebron, Wade, and Bosh, and they did add Ray Allen, but once again, depth is a question mark. The Celtics' deep rotation will keep coming at the Heat, and eventually wear them down and take it in six games.
Western Conference Finals: LA Lakers over San Antonio in five games
The Spurs will have run out of gas by the time they face Dwight Howard and the Lakers. This year should be the final stand for San Antonio, but the Lakers will not be stopped in the West. Steve Nash's playmaking will prove to be too much, and Kobe Bryant is still Kobe Bryant. But the key to this Lakers team will be Howard. Assuming his back does not hinder him in any way, he and Pau Gasol should dominate the front court. The Lakers will win this going away.
NBA Finals: LA Lakers over Boston in seven games
This pains me to admit, but the Celtics likely won't be able to stop the Lakers. Though Boston still has Kevin Garnett, and they did add a glut of seven-footers, Pau Gasol and Dwight Howard are just too much for any front court. Steve Nash may not be able to keep up with Rondo at this stage, and that may be Boston's best hope of winning the Finals. Either way, expect a classic seven-game series in June 2013.
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Our FanDuel daily NBA leagues: October 30 (12 teams) - October 31 (12 teams)
[His team-by-team predictions here: Eastern Conference - Western Conference]
Of course, "winning" the regular season doesn't mean much unless you parlay that home-court advantage into a title.
With that said, Kyle makes his predictions for the conference and NBA Finals below:
Eastern Conference Finals: Boston over Miami in six games
The Heat can expect to be back in the finals for many years to come, and will likely win at least a few more, so long as LeBron is still there. But the retooled Boston Celtics will put that dynasty on hold for the 2012-2013 season. This Celtics team is on a mission to win. More importantly though, this is the most complete Celtics team since the 07-08 squad. The Heat still have Lebron, Wade, and Bosh, and they did add Ray Allen, but once again, depth is a question mark. The Celtics' deep rotation will keep coming at the Heat, and eventually wear them down and take it in six games.
Western Conference Finals: LA Lakers over San Antonio in five games
The Spurs will have run out of gas by the time they face Dwight Howard and the Lakers. This year should be the final stand for San Antonio, but the Lakers will not be stopped in the West. Steve Nash's playmaking will prove to be too much, and Kobe Bryant is still Kobe Bryant. But the key to this Lakers team will be Howard. Assuming his back does not hinder him in any way, he and Pau Gasol should dominate the front court. The Lakers will win this going away.
NBA Finals: LA Lakers over Boston in seven games
This pains me to admit, but the Celtics likely won't be able to stop the Lakers. Though Boston still has Kevin Garnett, and they did add a glut of seven-footers, Pau Gasol and Dwight Howard are just too much for any front court. Steve Nash may not be able to keep up with Rondo at this stage, and that may be Boston's best hope of winning the Finals. Either way, expect a classic seven-game series in June 2013.
To keep track of our NBA updates, follow us on Twitter (@HitTheBoards) and/or like us on Facebook.
Our FanDuel daily NBA leagues: October 30 (12 teams) - October 31 (12 teams)
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Western Conference Preseason Predictions for the 2012-13 NBA Season
Earlier today, Kyle Baillargeon made his preseason predictions for the Eastern Conference. Now it's time to take a team-by-team look at the Western Conference.
Here is how Kyle sees the Western Conference playing out:
1. Los Angeles Lakers - 61-21
The triangle offense is just a distant memory with Steve Nash at the helm, and this team should expect to score in spades. When Dwight Howard comes back, assuming he is his normal self, watch out.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder - 60-22
The Thunder will be at or near the top for years to come, with only the retooled Lakers poised to stand in their way. The Thunder should take last year's loss in the NBA Finals as a learning experience and expect to come into this season with something to prove. It's also amazing to consider that KD35 just turned 24.
3. San Antonio Spurs - 59-23
Tempted to give the Spurs a lower record, simply because they know it's all about the playoffs and not the regular season. But that's just silly. This team will continue to be good until they prove otherwise.
4. Los Angeles Clippers - 54-28
Chemistry is a concern for the bench, where Matt Barnes and Jamal Crawford are not necessarily known for being quiet role players. CP3 combined with the talented and athletic front court should make for a four seed in the tight west.
5. Denver Nuggets - 53-29
This should be an exciting team to watch. Denver will be running all year, and Iguodola gives them a defensive anchor. With the right matchups, this team could surprise many and go deep into the playoffs.
6. Memphis Grizzlies - 51-31
Memphis opened some eyes two seasons ago in the playoffs, and they showed last season that they're no fluke. We've seen in this league, however, that you need a star to be one of the elite teams. Zach Randolph, Marc Gasol and Rudy Gay are all very good, but it's tough to imagine them in the championship with this squad as constituted.
7. Dallas Mavericks - 50-32
At this stage, Darren Collison is likely preferable to Jason Kidd, so that's an upgrade. Though it isn't the same as Deron Williams, whom they tried hard to get. Assuming there aren't any chemistry issues with all the new faces, don't put it past Dallas to make another run.
8. Utah Jazz - 46-36
The Jazz proved you can still be a solid team after trading away your best player. They just aren't ready yet to move up in this tough conference. Thankfully, they're very young and in a few years we could be talking about them as championship contenders.
9. Minnesota Timberwolves - 45-37
If Rubio comes back quickly, this team could end up higher than this. Minnesota has the best power forward in the league in Kevin Love, and they're somehow a very fun and potentially dangerous team. Brandon Roy is a wild card, and if he can play anything like we've seen in the past, he's a fantastic addition.
10. Phoenix Suns - 41-41
The Suns are finally in the post-Steve Nash era, and things don't look quite so bad. They won't contend this year or next, but patience and a little bit of luck in the lottery could help them out sooner rather than later. Losing Channing Frye hurts, with no idea of when he'll return. Kendall Marshall was a great pickup in the draft this year and should be a solid building block for the future.
11. Golden State Warriors - 39-43
This team is too much of an injury risk to put any higher. If Curry and Bogut are healthy though, they could very well contend for the eighth seed. Klay Thompson is ready to take another step and will hopefully avoid a sophomore slump.
12. New Orleans Hornets - 35-47
It's probably too much to expect this many wins out of such a young squad, but the talent is there. Anthony Davis is a stud and Eric Gordon is ready to put a frustrating season behind him. The rebuild could be quick for the Hornets.
13. Portland Trail Blazers - 34-48
The Blazers don't quite have an identity, but Aldridge is still young and a solid piece to build around. Batum made headlines with his actions at the Olympic games, and he is hoping to make headlines with his play this season.
14. Sacramento Kings - 30-52
Jimmer Fredette was a big miss, and Tyreke Evans and DeMarcus Cousins are both talented but not of the right mindset to be leaders. This team is a mess and the chemistry, or lack thereof, will certainly hurt them.
15. Houston Rockets - 28-54
The Rockets shot high in trying to get Dwight Howard, but all they did was shoot themselves in the foot, at least for this season. It's well known that Daryl Morey believes you need to either be elite, or in the basement, and not somewhere in the middle. The Rockets will most certainly be contending for the 1st overall pick this year.
Follow our basketball tweets and/or like us Facebook to keep track of our updates.
Here is how Kyle sees the Western Conference playing out:
1. Los Angeles Lakers - 61-21
The triangle offense is just a distant memory with Steve Nash at the helm, and this team should expect to score in spades. When Dwight Howard comes back, assuming he is his normal self, watch out.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder - 60-22
The Thunder will be at or near the top for years to come, with only the retooled Lakers poised to stand in their way. The Thunder should take last year's loss in the NBA Finals as a learning experience and expect to come into this season with something to prove. It's also amazing to consider that KD35 just turned 24.
3. San Antonio Spurs - 59-23
Tempted to give the Spurs a lower record, simply because they know it's all about the playoffs and not the regular season. But that's just silly. This team will continue to be good until they prove otherwise.
4. Los Angeles Clippers - 54-28
Chemistry is a concern for the bench, where Matt Barnes and Jamal Crawford are not necessarily known for being quiet role players. CP3 combined with the talented and athletic front court should make for a four seed in the tight west.
5. Denver Nuggets - 53-29
This should be an exciting team to watch. Denver will be running all year, and Iguodola gives them a defensive anchor. With the right matchups, this team could surprise many and go deep into the playoffs.
6. Memphis Grizzlies - 51-31
Memphis opened some eyes two seasons ago in the playoffs, and they showed last season that they're no fluke. We've seen in this league, however, that you need a star to be one of the elite teams. Zach Randolph, Marc Gasol and Rudy Gay are all very good, but it's tough to imagine them in the championship with this squad as constituted.
7. Dallas Mavericks - 50-32
At this stage, Darren Collison is likely preferable to Jason Kidd, so that's an upgrade. Though it isn't the same as Deron Williams, whom they tried hard to get. Assuming there aren't any chemistry issues with all the new faces, don't put it past Dallas to make another run.
8. Utah Jazz - 46-36
The Jazz proved you can still be a solid team after trading away your best player. They just aren't ready yet to move up in this tough conference. Thankfully, they're very young and in a few years we could be talking about them as championship contenders.
9. Minnesota Timberwolves - 45-37
If Rubio comes back quickly, this team could end up higher than this. Minnesota has the best power forward in the league in Kevin Love, and they're somehow a very fun and potentially dangerous team. Brandon Roy is a wild card, and if he can play anything like we've seen in the past, he's a fantastic addition.
10. Phoenix Suns - 41-41
The Suns are finally in the post-Steve Nash era, and things don't look quite so bad. They won't contend this year or next, but patience and a little bit of luck in the lottery could help them out sooner rather than later. Losing Channing Frye hurts, with no idea of when he'll return. Kendall Marshall was a great pickup in the draft this year and should be a solid building block for the future.
11. Golden State Warriors - 39-43
This team is too much of an injury risk to put any higher. If Curry and Bogut are healthy though, they could very well contend for the eighth seed. Klay Thompson is ready to take another step and will hopefully avoid a sophomore slump.
12. New Orleans Hornets - 35-47
It's probably too much to expect this many wins out of such a young squad, but the talent is there. Anthony Davis is a stud and Eric Gordon is ready to put a frustrating season behind him. The rebuild could be quick for the Hornets.
13. Portland Trail Blazers - 34-48
The Blazers don't quite have an identity, but Aldridge is still young and a solid piece to build around. Batum made headlines with his actions at the Olympic games, and he is hoping to make headlines with his play this season.
14. Sacramento Kings - 30-52
Jimmer Fredette was a big miss, and Tyreke Evans and DeMarcus Cousins are both talented but not of the right mindset to be leaders. This team is a mess and the chemistry, or lack thereof, will certainly hurt them.
15. Houston Rockets - 28-54
The Rockets shot high in trying to get Dwight Howard, but all they did was shoot themselves in the foot, at least for this season. It's well known that Daryl Morey believes you need to either be elite, or in the basement, and not somewhere in the middle. The Rockets will most certainly be contending for the 1st overall pick this year.
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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.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Trifone: 2012 NBA Finals Prediction - Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Miami Heat
After an incredible Game 6 performance from King James, the Miami Heat were able to defend home court in Game 7 and advance to the Finals. After a very competitive series, one that turned out to be far closer than I thought it would be, the Heat showed flashes of greatness. However, they also showed some glaring weaknesses.
Miami is easily the most criticized and scrutinized team in the NBA, and while it's pretty clear why, it creates a very interesting dynamic. Every time the Heat appear to be down (falling behind 2-1 to the Pacers, or falling behind 3-2 to the Celtics after taking a 2-0 lead), everyone, including myself at times, wants to pile on the Heat. And the reason seems to be that our expectations for them are so high. We think to ourselves that this team came together, three of the best players in the league, and yet we see them struggle the way any other team might. It appears that the reality of the situation is that regardless of how they came together, the Big 3 of Miami are simply NOT substantially better than a handful of other teams in the league.
In the prime of his career, Michael Jordan and the Bulls were not challenged. It was clear who the best team was, and Jordan's Bulls would usually have the series in hand before there was ever even talk of a Game 7. We lived through this, and wonder why LeBron can't seem to yield the same results, in spite of joining forces with Wade and Bosh.
And the truth of the matter is that the league is just more competitive today; not as a whole, but at the top. In the Jordan era, we didn't think there were five or six teams at the top, any of which could realistically win it. I used to be a die-hard Knicks fan, and they were a playoff team year after year. But I knew in my heart that Ewing and Starks and Oakley simply were not going to beat Jordan and Pippen. And they never did. Before free agency became as prevalent, teams simply did not change enough. And Jordan and Pippen were simply better than Malone/Stockton, Olajuwon, Ewing, Barkley, etc. The question was not which of a handful of teams will win it all. It was will any other team rise up and really challenge the Bulls?
Today, we feel that Miami should be that team because of the way that they came together, and the incredibly high expectations we have for those three players. But as we've seen, Miami is a very good team; often a great team. But they simply are not head and shoulders above the rest of the league. And when they struggle, we come down on them as if they should be Jordan's Bulls, rather than simply acknowledge that maybe they're not.
With all of that said, for the second straight year, Miami is headed back to the NBA Finals. It wasn't always a pretty road and it wasn't always apparent that they would emerge, but once again they have, setting up the NBA's dream matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Celtics and Spurs put forth valiant efforts to make what appears to be one final run for each team, but in the end, we are witnessing the changing of the guard. It's the two faces of the NBA, the three-time MVP versus the three-time scoring champion. It's good versus evil in a series that will have just about everyone outside of Miami (and Seattle) rooting for the Thunder.
Oklahoma City was incredibly impressive against San Antonio. All year, I have felt that the Thunder were a good team, certainly one of the best in the league. But I definitely thought that they were still a bit young, and with the way the Spurs had been playing, I was more than a bit surprised that they were able to overcome a 2-0 deficit to win four straight. It's ironic the way we judge Miami's Big 3, as OKC's Big 3 is every bit as good. James Harden has been playing like the unquestioned best "third option" in the league, if we can still call him that. And Oklahoma City seems to be winning by not only pouring on the points, but on the defensive end as well.
The Thunder are the favorite to win the title, and deservedly so.
They were more impressive overall than Miami was, and went through a more difficult road, knocking off three championship-caliber teams. Still, I can't help but feel like LeBron isn't going to let anything stop him this time. I felt the same way last year, and I still feel that Miami was better than Dallas was last year. Just not at that moment in time. Dirk Nowitzki had one of the top-five greatest playoff performances in history. If Durant can mimic that kind of effort, it could spell the same kind of trouble for Miami this time around.
However, LeBron is just as capable as Durant of having that kind of a series, and while the Heat have some weaknesses, James has been taking it to another level in the playoffs. He appears to be less concerned about being criticized and is more focused on taking games over. He looks like Cleveland Lebron, except he finally might have enough of a supporting cast.
I am as excited for this series as I have been for any series I can remember, and I look forward to watching the two best players on the planet go at each other. When Dwyane Wade and Russell Westbrook aren't the headliners, you know you're in store for a pretty great matchup. This series could go either way, but I've felt that in a seven-game series, Miami has been the best team all year. And I still feel that way today.
Miami in seven.
[Editor's note: This post is by John Trifone (@JohnnyT0122). Get tickets to the NBA Finals from TicketCity.]
Miami is easily the most criticized and scrutinized team in the NBA, and while it's pretty clear why, it creates a very interesting dynamic. Every time the Heat appear to be down (falling behind 2-1 to the Pacers, or falling behind 3-2 to the Celtics after taking a 2-0 lead), everyone, including myself at times, wants to pile on the Heat. And the reason seems to be that our expectations for them are so high. We think to ourselves that this team came together, three of the best players in the league, and yet we see them struggle the way any other team might. It appears that the reality of the situation is that regardless of how they came together, the Big 3 of Miami are simply NOT substantially better than a handful of other teams in the league.
In the prime of his career, Michael Jordan and the Bulls were not challenged. It was clear who the best team was, and Jordan's Bulls would usually have the series in hand before there was ever even talk of a Game 7. We lived through this, and wonder why LeBron can't seem to yield the same results, in spite of joining forces with Wade and Bosh.
And the truth of the matter is that the league is just more competitive today; not as a whole, but at the top. In the Jordan era, we didn't think there were five or six teams at the top, any of which could realistically win it. I used to be a die-hard Knicks fan, and they were a playoff team year after year. But I knew in my heart that Ewing and Starks and Oakley simply were not going to beat Jordan and Pippen. And they never did. Before free agency became as prevalent, teams simply did not change enough. And Jordan and Pippen were simply better than Malone/Stockton, Olajuwon, Ewing, Barkley, etc. The question was not which of a handful of teams will win it all. It was will any other team rise up and really challenge the Bulls?
Today, we feel that Miami should be that team because of the way that they came together, and the incredibly high expectations we have for those three players. But as we've seen, Miami is a very good team; often a great team. But they simply are not head and shoulders above the rest of the league. And when they struggle, we come down on them as if they should be Jordan's Bulls, rather than simply acknowledge that maybe they're not.
With all of that said, for the second straight year, Miami is headed back to the NBA Finals. It wasn't always a pretty road and it wasn't always apparent that they would emerge, but once again they have, setting up the NBA's dream matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Celtics and Spurs put forth valiant efforts to make what appears to be one final run for each team, but in the end, we are witnessing the changing of the guard. It's the two faces of the NBA, the three-time MVP versus the three-time scoring champion. It's good versus evil in a series that will have just about everyone outside of Miami (and Seattle) rooting for the Thunder.
Oklahoma City was incredibly impressive against San Antonio. All year, I have felt that the Thunder were a good team, certainly one of the best in the league. But I definitely thought that they were still a bit young, and with the way the Spurs had been playing, I was more than a bit surprised that they were able to overcome a 2-0 deficit to win four straight. It's ironic the way we judge Miami's Big 3, as OKC's Big 3 is every bit as good. James Harden has been playing like the unquestioned best "third option" in the league, if we can still call him that. And Oklahoma City seems to be winning by not only pouring on the points, but on the defensive end as well.
The Thunder are the favorite to win the title, and deservedly so.
They were more impressive overall than Miami was, and went through a more difficult road, knocking off three championship-caliber teams. Still, I can't help but feel like LeBron isn't going to let anything stop him this time. I felt the same way last year, and I still feel that Miami was better than Dallas was last year. Just not at that moment in time. Dirk Nowitzki had one of the top-five greatest playoff performances in history. If Durant can mimic that kind of effort, it could spell the same kind of trouble for Miami this time around.
However, LeBron is just as capable as Durant of having that kind of a series, and while the Heat have some weaknesses, James has been taking it to another level in the playoffs. He appears to be less concerned about being criticized and is more focused on taking games over. He looks like Cleveland Lebron, except he finally might have enough of a supporting cast.
I am as excited for this series as I have been for any series I can remember, and I look forward to watching the two best players on the planet go at each other. When Dwyane Wade and Russell Westbrook aren't the headliners, you know you're in store for a pretty great matchup. This series could go either way, but I've felt that in a seven-game series, Miami has been the best team all year. And I still feel that way today.
Miami in seven.
[Editor's note: This post is by John Trifone (@JohnnyT0122). Get tickets to the NBA Finals from TicketCity.]
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