Thursday, May 22, 2008
Monday, March 3, 2008
Power Rankings : Week 7
The Way to GloryThe Spurs are back in the top by winning their last 9 games. Everyone is healthy, and they're proving to the West that they are still the Champions
Hero Team of the Week: Houston Rockets (15 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: LA Clippers (6 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +5 Rockets, +4 Pacers, +3 Jazz, +3 Warriors
Free Falls of the Week: -4 Suns, -4 Magic, -4 Timberwolves, -3 Mavs
1) San Antonio Spurs (2) - The Spurs are on a nine-game winning streak, and during that, they are giving up 87.8 points for opponents. They are healthy and with Kurt Thomas connecting on the Spurs, they are out and gunning.
2) Los Angeles Lakers (1) - Tough loss against Portland that stopped their 10-game winning streak. But there is no joy than seeing them fight toe-to-toe against the Mavericks in an epic shootout between Kobe and Dirk. They won the game and they are ready to start another one.
3) Boston Celtics - KG is healthy, and the Celtics are running again with their 5-game winning streak. It may halt on Wednesday though, as they fight their conference rival, the Pistons.
4) Houston Rockets (9) - Fifteen straight wins including three without their best player is amazing. What's more amazing is that they have held opponents to 88.6 points per game. They may see their streak stopped this week, as they fight Dallas and New Orleans.
5) Detroit Pistons (4) - I don't understand how they lost to Utah when they were up by 18 points. Aren't they veteran?
6) New Orleans Hornets (8) - Won against Utah and Phoenix, lost to Washington two straight times. You should know how to win against bad teams, too.
7) Utah Jazz (10) - Utah won their last 7 of 10. A loss came from New Orleans, the other 2 came from Minnesota and LA Clippers, the worst teams in the Western Conference.
8) Dallas Mavericks (5) - 4-4 Since Kidd arrived, no need to press the panic button.
9) Golden State Warriors (12) - Easy schedule ahead, a good time to outrun Phoenix and get C-Webb back into shape.
10) Phoenix Suns (6) - 2-4 with Shaq, the reason: We're just starting to know each other and gel. Isn't six games a good way to learn the anything-goes offense?
11) Orlando Magic (7) - As if losing to Philadelphia isn't enough, they will fight 3 of the most hungry-playoff team in the NBA this week.
12) Cleveland Cavaliers (11) - I can't wait to see what will happen when Lebron, Hughes, and Gooden meet at Chicago.
13) Portland Trailblazers - They are the only team the Lakers wouldn't like to face in the playoffs, provided that they play home games only.
14) Denver Nuggets - Inconsistency crawls upon this team. Losing to a team without its best player is questionable.
15) Toronto Raptors - Jose Calderon's number has been down lately. Well, what's worse is that Chris Bosh is down, too.
16) Washington Wizards - You can't expect anything more from this team, if i have to choose who gets the Coach of the Year, it has to be Eddie Jordan. I am amazed this team has been overachieving. Next year, would be pretty special, if all are healthy.
17) Philadelphia 76ers - The Sixers are becoming more serious about beating playoff teams. Andre Miller is The Reason.
18) New Jersey Nets (19) - Devin Harris had been himself all game long against the Spurs, the problem is that, the Nets still lack that inside defensive presence they need IF EVER they would be in the playoffs.
19) Atlanta Hawks (20) - Mike Bibby has transformed this team from mediocre to something special. I won't be surprised if next year, Larry Brown would coach this team and take them to the playoffs.
20) Sacramento Kings (18) - A 21-point loss to Miami was awful. It didn't matter , though, when they kicked the Heat's butts in Sac-Town.
21) Chicago Bulls - I don't understand why Hughes was made a starter.
22) Milwaukee Bucks - I'm all done with Michael Redd, somebody needs to have this guy a great supporting cast or we might be seeing him next year in a new uniform.
23) Indiana Pacers (27) - 72 points in the last 2 games. Now, that's what I call a late-bloomer.
24) Charlotte Bobcats - At least they got a win versus Toronto.
25) New York Knicks - Fire Isaiah.
26) Seattle Supersonics - They may be the best 15-40 team in the league right now, so don't underestimate this team, especially when they will have 6 first-rounders next season.
27) Minnesota Timberwolves (23) - The win on Utah was nice.
28) Miami Heat (30) - At last, they won 2 of their last 8 games.
29) Los Angeles Clippers (28) - Why would Elton Brand go back and play?
30) Memphis Grizzlies (29) - Not another Top 5 first-round pick.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Power Rankings : Week 6
I've been busy the past two weeks, so I'm sorry for not getting to post.
But none could have been busier other than the NBA.
Before I go to the rankings, let's just have a brief review of what happened in the past two weeks.
TRADES:
1) Shaquille O'Neal to the Suns for Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks:
This trade is no doubt greater than any sports analysts ever thought. The Big Cactus provided the Suns a great defensive presence. They showed it against the Boston Celtics. Shaq gives you a larger-than-life personality, which brought satisfaction to the locker room. Of course, they may need more time to gel. Although that time might not be enough.
2) Jason Kidd to the Mavs for Devin Harris, DeSagana Diop, Trenton Hasell, a first-round pick, and a Keith Van Horn (I won't be surprised if Kenny Smith enters again in the NBA).
This trade is a no-brainer. The Dallas wants to win now, and they've traded a three-year championship window for a one-year term. It's either this year or no ring at all. Well, they would have to fight through the already-stacked West to get into the Finals, that's Lakers, Spurs, Suns, Hornets, Warriors, Rockets, and Jazz for you.
3) Kurt Thomas to the Spurs for Brent Barry and a couple of first-rounders.
The Spurs have made a quiet but deadly move. Now, Tim Duncan might not be troubled to play interior defense all by him. You get a veteran, low-post defender who can hit mid-range j's and gives you size and experience. This move is probably the best the Spurs can do.
4) Ben Wallace and Joe Smith to the Cavs for Larry Hughes and Drew Gooden; Wally Sczerbiak for Ira Newble, Donyell Marshall, and a first-round pick.
The Cavs changed half of their roster for really no help at all. Sure, Wallace and Smith are good defensive presences, but you've got to take their case with Bulls this season.
All-Star:
How about that Superman dunk by Dwight Howard?
http://youtube.com/watch?v=EO3c8EaxsxQ
The All-Star game!
http://youtube.com/watch?v=9GldPuBKbP8
Ok. Let's get back to the Power Rankings.
Back at One
The Lakers are back to the Top of the Rankings as they pulled of a very pretty performance than any other team.
Hero Team of the Week: Houston Rockets (12 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Miami Heat (11 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +5 Rockets, +4 Lakers, +4 Spurs, +4 Sixers
Free Falls of the Week: -6 Bobcats, 5 Nuggets, -5 T'Wolves, -4 Hornets, Bulls,Sonics, -3 Suns
1) Los Angeles Lakers (5) - The Lakers are 11-1 this February. They have won 26 games by 10 or more. Here are their best stats during this month: Kobe Bryant is averaging 27ppg while shooting 51.6% from the field. Lamar Odom posts 15.6ppg, 11.6rpg while shooting 67.2%from the field. Pau Gasol 22ppg, 63.2% FG while playing only 10 games. Now, that's the Big Three, let's wait for Drew to come back, maybe we'll be naming the Lakers' starters : The Jackson Five.
2) San Antonio Spurs (6) - The Spurs are back into their groove, winning 5 straight, and the main reason is not Tim Duncan, it's the sixth man, Manu Ginobili. The Argentinian scored 34.4points during the streak, while shooting a eye-popping 64% from the field. With Tony Parker back, the Spurs are sure to make another run to the playoff race.
3) Boston Celtics (1) - KG and co. are looking pretty vulnerable after the 3-game losing streak they had against the tough West. They are slowly coming back to earth, and the race for the No. 1 spot in the East is reachable for Detroit.
4) Detroit Pistons (2) - I'm sick and tired of hearing this team saying that they're flying under the radar. Well, is flying under the radar includes losing to the third worst team in the East?
5) Dallas Mavericks (7) - The Mavs have now won 2 straight with Kidd, and they are looking far more dangerous than I thought. With Stackhouse back in the lineup, I can't imagine how many assists would Kidd get per game.
6) Phoenix Suns (3) - The Suns have shown 3 different sides of their team: A close offensive loss to the Lakers, a close defensive win over the Celtics , and a blowout loss to the Pistons. So much zig zag, but good to see Shaq averaging over 11 boards during the 3 games.
7) Orlando Magic (8) - The Magic had won 4 of their last 5 games, averaging a 16-point differential, the only negative note is that they lost to the Raptors by 17. 1 more than their point-differential in wins.
8) New Orleans Hornets (4) - The Hornets are 5-5 in their last 10 games. Including a 20-point loss against the Rockets and a poor offensive outing against the Spurs. Just got the news that they lost today against the Wizards. More of those and the Hornets might be on the outside looking in.
9) Houston Rockets (14) - The Rockets are undefeated this month, but what's more surprising is that they are holding their opponents to scoring 88.1 ppg during that stretch.
10) Utah Jazz - The Jazz have won 14 straight wins at home. But the main problem is they are losing to teams under .500. That's a big problem because they have to fight those teams 12 times this season.
11) Cleveland Cavaliers (12) -Lebron James had a more better supporting cast now, the media said. Well, let's wait.
12) Golden State Warriors (11) - The win against Boston was probably one of the best games so far this season. But that is only it for the Warriors, especially when you lose to the Atlanta Hawks.
13) Portland Trailblazers - They are getting out of the playoff picture faster than I thought. This week they will fight the Lakers twice. They will be getting out of the playoff picture faster than I thought.
14) Denver Nuggets (9) - The Nuggets defeated the team that has the best record in the East, then lost two straight against the teams that had the 3rd and 5th worst record in the East. Maybe, they really need Ron Artest.
15) Toronto Raptors (17) - Jose Calderon is posting sick numbers as a point guard: 12.9ppg, 8.9apg, 1.7TOpg, 54% from the field, 91% from the FT line, and 46.3% from the 3-pt line. He is having a phenomenal year, and I'm still not over it on why he was not in the All-Star.
16) Washington Wizards - The Wizards are not healthy this year but they have won 27 out of 56 games, with all of the Big Three not playing together. Next year, provided that they stay put in their roster, I can't imagine how good would they be.
17) Philadelphia 76ers (21) - The Sixers have won 7 of their last 10 games. Detroit is the only other team in the East to have won much(8-2) in their last 10 games. Coach Maurice Cheeks is talking about playoffs. No one is laughing.
18) Sacramento Kings (16) - The Kings are now 3-2 since Bibby left the Kings. I thought they can go for a run in the west's 8th playoff spot. But now, I highly doubt it.
19) New Jersey Nets (20) - The Nets have a see-saw week: an 8-point win over Chicago, a 10-point loss to Indiana, and a 11-point win against the Pacers again. No Jason Kidd, no problem. They have a Sean Williams anyway. They're pretty lucky they are in the East, where losing three straight doesn't ruin your chances to go the playoffs.
20) Atlanta Hawks (19) - The Hawks have a great vast of talent, the problem is not on themselves, it is on their coach. The only positive note is that they won against the Warriors.
21) Chicago Bulls (25) - The Bulls were energized by the trade, and it showed against the Nuggets. Well, at least they were on it for a day.
22) Milwaukee Bucks (24) - The Bucks have the talent, and they showed it when they won against Denver and Detroit. If only the management would notice........
23) Minnesota Timberwolves (28) - Al Jefferson and the T'Wolves have almost beaten the Spurs. ALMOST. Well, they are still young and they have nothing to lose right now. Except the players or the coaching staff.
24) Charlotte Bobcats (18) - 2 months ago, the Bobcats were in the playoff picture in the East, now they are looking like the same team with different faces a year ago.
25) New York Knicks (26) - If throwing water to a teammate would boost the team's energy, I might as well give them a daily dose of it.
26) Seattle Supersonics (22) - The Sonics may have already lost Sczerbiak and Thomas, but the sky is the limit for this team as they will be heading next year with great expectations, especially with 6 first-round picks.
27) Indiana Pacers (25) - I thought no O'Neal, no problem? They're kidding right?
28) Los Angeles Clippers (27) - The Clippers are excited about Elton Brand's comeback from surgery. So that means?
29) Memphis Grizzlies - Getting Kwame Brown as a starter and giving more minutes to the bench only means one thing: They are ready to pack early.
30) Miami Heat - The Heat might have the worst record now, but the fact that this team is getting more and more mature, next year would be a breakout season. If, and only if, coach Pat Riley steps out of the coaching position, and hire someone like Larry Brown.
But none could have been busier other than the NBA.
Before I go to the rankings, let's just have a brief review of what happened in the past two weeks.
TRADES:
1) Shaquille O'Neal to the Suns for Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks:
This trade is no doubt greater than any sports analysts ever thought. The Big Cactus provided the Suns a great defensive presence. They showed it against the Boston Celtics. Shaq gives you a larger-than-life personality, which brought satisfaction to the locker room. Of course, they may need more time to gel. Although that time might not be enough.
2) Jason Kidd to the Mavs for Devin Harris, DeSagana Diop, Trenton Hasell, a first-round pick, and a Keith Van Horn (I won't be surprised if Kenny Smith enters again in the NBA).
This trade is a no-brainer. The Dallas wants to win now, and they've traded a three-year championship window for a one-year term. It's either this year or no ring at all. Well, they would have to fight through the already-stacked West to get into the Finals, that's Lakers, Spurs, Suns, Hornets, Warriors, Rockets, and Jazz for you.
3) Kurt Thomas to the Spurs for Brent Barry and a couple of first-rounders.
The Spurs have made a quiet but deadly move. Now, Tim Duncan might not be troubled to play interior defense all by him. You get a veteran, low-post defender who can hit mid-range j's and gives you size and experience. This move is probably the best the Spurs can do.
4) Ben Wallace and Joe Smith to the Cavs for Larry Hughes and Drew Gooden; Wally Sczerbiak for Ira Newble, Donyell Marshall, and a first-round pick.
The Cavs changed half of their roster for really no help at all. Sure, Wallace and Smith are good defensive presences, but you've got to take their case with Bulls this season.
All-Star:
How about that Superman dunk by Dwight Howard?
http://youtube.com/watch?v=EO3c8EaxsxQ
The All-Star game!
http://youtube.com/watch?v=9GldPuBKbP8
Ok. Let's get back to the Power Rankings.
Back at One
The Lakers are back to the Top of the Rankings as they pulled of a very pretty performance than any other team.
Hero Team of the Week: Houston Rockets (12 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Miami Heat (11 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +5 Rockets, +4 Lakers, +4 Spurs, +4 Sixers
Free Falls of the Week: -6 Bobcats, 5 Nuggets, -5 T'Wolves, -4 Hornets, Bulls,Sonics, -3 Suns
1) Los Angeles Lakers (5) - The Lakers are 11-1 this February. They have won 26 games by 10 or more. Here are their best stats during this month: Kobe Bryant is averaging 27ppg while shooting 51.6% from the field. Lamar Odom posts 15.6ppg, 11.6rpg while shooting 67.2%from the field. Pau Gasol 22ppg, 63.2% FG while playing only 10 games. Now, that's the Big Three, let's wait for Drew to come back, maybe we'll be naming the Lakers' starters : The Jackson Five.
2) San Antonio Spurs (6) - The Spurs are back into their groove, winning 5 straight, and the main reason is not Tim Duncan, it's the sixth man, Manu Ginobili. The Argentinian scored 34.4points during the streak, while shooting a eye-popping 64% from the field. With Tony Parker back, the Spurs are sure to make another run to the playoff race.
3) Boston Celtics (1) - KG and co. are looking pretty vulnerable after the 3-game losing streak they had against the tough West. They are slowly coming back to earth, and the race for the No. 1 spot in the East is reachable for Detroit.
4) Detroit Pistons (2) - I'm sick and tired of hearing this team saying that they're flying under the radar. Well, is flying under the radar includes losing to the third worst team in the East?
5) Dallas Mavericks (7) - The Mavs have now won 2 straight with Kidd, and they are looking far more dangerous than I thought. With Stackhouse back in the lineup, I can't imagine how many assists would Kidd get per game.
6) Phoenix Suns (3) - The Suns have shown 3 different sides of their team: A close offensive loss to the Lakers, a close defensive win over the Celtics , and a blowout loss to the Pistons. So much zig zag, but good to see Shaq averaging over 11 boards during the 3 games.
7) Orlando Magic (8) - The Magic had won 4 of their last 5 games, averaging a 16-point differential, the only negative note is that they lost to the Raptors by 17. 1 more than their point-differential in wins.
8) New Orleans Hornets (4) - The Hornets are 5-5 in their last 10 games. Including a 20-point loss against the Rockets and a poor offensive outing against the Spurs. Just got the news that they lost today against the Wizards. More of those and the Hornets might be on the outside looking in.
9) Houston Rockets (14) - The Rockets are undefeated this month, but what's more surprising is that they are holding their opponents to scoring 88.1 ppg during that stretch.
10) Utah Jazz - The Jazz have won 14 straight wins at home. But the main problem is they are losing to teams under .500. That's a big problem because they have to fight those teams 12 times this season.
11) Cleveland Cavaliers (12) -Lebron James had a more better supporting cast now, the media said. Well, let's wait.
12) Golden State Warriors (11) - The win against Boston was probably one of the best games so far this season. But that is only it for the Warriors, especially when you lose to the Atlanta Hawks.
13) Portland Trailblazers - They are getting out of the playoff picture faster than I thought. This week they will fight the Lakers twice. They will be getting out of the playoff picture faster than I thought.
14) Denver Nuggets (9) - The Nuggets defeated the team that has the best record in the East, then lost two straight against the teams that had the 3rd and 5th worst record in the East. Maybe, they really need Ron Artest.
15) Toronto Raptors (17) - Jose Calderon is posting sick numbers as a point guard: 12.9ppg, 8.9apg, 1.7TOpg, 54% from the field, 91% from the FT line, and 46.3% from the 3-pt line. He is having a phenomenal year, and I'm still not over it on why he was not in the All-Star.
16) Washington Wizards - The Wizards are not healthy this year but they have won 27 out of 56 games, with all of the Big Three not playing together. Next year, provided that they stay put in their roster, I can't imagine how good would they be.
17) Philadelphia 76ers (21) - The Sixers have won 7 of their last 10 games. Detroit is the only other team in the East to have won much(8-2) in their last 10 games. Coach Maurice Cheeks is talking about playoffs. No one is laughing.
18) Sacramento Kings (16) - The Kings are now 3-2 since Bibby left the Kings. I thought they can go for a run in the west's 8th playoff spot. But now, I highly doubt it.
19) New Jersey Nets (20) - The Nets have a see-saw week: an 8-point win over Chicago, a 10-point loss to Indiana, and a 11-point win against the Pacers again. No Jason Kidd, no problem. They have a Sean Williams anyway. They're pretty lucky they are in the East, where losing three straight doesn't ruin your chances to go the playoffs.
20) Atlanta Hawks (19) - The Hawks have a great vast of talent, the problem is not on themselves, it is on their coach. The only positive note is that they won against the Warriors.
21) Chicago Bulls (25) - The Bulls were energized by the trade, and it showed against the Nuggets. Well, at least they were on it for a day.
22) Milwaukee Bucks (24) - The Bucks have the talent, and they showed it when they won against Denver and Detroit. If only the management would notice........
23) Minnesota Timberwolves (28) - Al Jefferson and the T'Wolves have almost beaten the Spurs. ALMOST. Well, they are still young and they have nothing to lose right now. Except the players or the coaching staff.
24) Charlotte Bobcats (18) - 2 months ago, the Bobcats were in the playoff picture in the East, now they are looking like the same team with different faces a year ago.
25) New York Knicks (26) - If throwing water to a teammate would boost the team's energy, I might as well give them a daily dose of it.
26) Seattle Supersonics (22) - The Sonics may have already lost Sczerbiak and Thomas, but the sky is the limit for this team as they will be heading next year with great expectations, especially with 6 first-round picks.
27) Indiana Pacers (25) - I thought no O'Neal, no problem? They're kidding right?
28) Los Angeles Clippers (27) - The Clippers are excited about Elton Brand's comeback from surgery. So that means?
29) Memphis Grizzlies - Getting Kwame Brown as a starter and giving more minutes to the bench only means one thing: They are ready to pack early.
30) Miami Heat - The Heat might have the worst record now, but the fact that this team is getting more and more mature, next year would be a breakout season. If, and only if, coach Pat Riley steps out of the coaching position, and hire someone like Larry Brown.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Power Rankings - Week 4
Jackson 5
The Lakers shook up the West friday, after trading
Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie,
2 first-rd draft picks, and the rights to Marc Gasol, for the face of the Memphis' franchise: Pau Gasol. From playoff contenders to championship contenders, Kobe won't be going anywhere right now.
Hero Team of the Week: Utah Jazz (8 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Indiana Pacers (6 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +8 Sonics, +5 T-Wolves, +5 Pistons, +4 Kings
Free Falls of the Week: -3 Hornets, Mavs, Cavs, Bulls, Pacers, Grizzlies
1) Boston Celtics (3) - Boston continues its stellar play since losing to the Magic and losing Kevin Garnett (abdominal strain), beating the Mavs and the win-less Heat.
2) Detroit Pistons (7) - Five straight wins by this Pistons team brought them up to the 2nd spot after bombarding the Mavs by their defense, 90-67.
3) Phoenix Suns (2) - After beating Atlanta by 33 points, they lost to the Parker-less Spurs 81-84. I should've dropped them down, but their stellar defense against the Spurs was awesome to me.
4) New Orleans Hornets (1) - After winning 9 straight, they lost 2 games in a row, a 13-points loss to the Warriors, and a 9-point scrub against the Kings. Two words: BACK to EARTH.
5) Los Angeles Lakers (6) - On his last three games, Kobe averaged 38.3 points and 60.9% from the field, and a one-point heart-braking loss against the Pistons was a blessing in disguise:
Pau Gasol was traded to the Lakers. Kobe+Gasol+Bynum+Odom+Fisher = rings. Watch out!
6) San Antonio Spurs (5) - The Spurs lost 3 straight, won the next game by 3 points with Ginobili making only 3 field goals. They are 3rd in the Southwest division standings, and they will sign Damon Stoudemire who wears jersey no.3. They'll fight 3 teams this week with 3 losing records. Enough of "3" factor, just hope that they'll get back Parker soon.
7) Dallas Mavericks (4) - The Mavs had their worst offensive performance this season. What's worst is that they lost 2 straight against playoff-caliber teams.
8) Orlando Magic - The Magic have won 4 straight, they'll play Dirk and Kobe this week, and the winning streak might be stopped sooner than later.
9) Denver Nuggets (10) - Carmelo Anthony is back, and the Bobcats got the worst of it, as Allen and Anthony combined for 49 points, 16 rebounds, and 17 assists. The schedule is no paradise though, as they fight Portland, Utah, and Washington this week.
10) Utah Jazz (13) - Winners of 8 straight, the Jazz are the hottest team on the league right now, New Orleans, Sacramento, and Denver would be their acid test this week.
11) Golden State Warriors (12) - With Webber back in action as a Warrior this week, expect this Golden State team to make another "noise" in the playoffs.
12) Cleveland Cavaliers (9) - Lebron came back in the lineup and the result: a 4-points win over the Clippers. That's not enough, as they fight Boston, Houston, and Atlanta this week.
13) Portland Trailblazers (11) - Portland is coming back to earth now, and they are getting out of the playoff picture.
14) Houston Rockets (15) - 200 million watched the game Saturday night, and were disappointed by their 2 countrymen as Yi and Yao combined for 6-21 from the field. But what' impressive is that they got their 3rd straight win, and will be looking to extend their winning streak this week.
15) Washington Wizards (14) - Kobe Bryant outscored the Wizards the entire first quarter, 19-15. They lost their third straight and this week might stretch their slump.
16) Sacramento Kings (20) - Winners of 4 straight, the Kings are getting serious contenders in the West, as they are looking to be the same team that went to the Conference Finals the last decade.
17) Toronto Raptors (16) -When they won against Boston, I was thinking that they are one of the Best in the East, but losing to the Lakers by 20 points in their homecourt made me wonder.
18) Charlotte Bobcats (17) - Inconsistency still plays a big role in this ballclub, and they need to get over it sooner than later.
19) Atlanta Hawks - This week, they'll fight 4 teams, and only one of them has a losing record. Smells like trouble.
20) New Jersey Nets - Believe it or not, Jason Kidd is showing that he is already tired of playing with the Nets, and before the trade deadline ends, there might be another franchise player to be traded.
21) Philadelphia 76ers (23) - Last week was a great week for the Sixers. They're getting stronger as a team, and that's a good sign: for next year.
22) Seattle Supersonics (30) - 3 straight wins? The Sonics are proving their worth now. But, who cares? They are still in pace for 58 losses now.
23) Minnesota Timberwolves (28) - Minnesota is playing like a team that will win 10 straight. Their finding their identity now. But that isn't enough for them to get into the playoffs, no, not for now.
24) Milwaukee Bucks - The Bucks have lost 3 straight, and as if it was not enough, they'll be playing the Mavs this week.
25) Chicago Bulls (22) - Chicago has a newly-found scorer: Kirk Hinrich. Chicago must find a new coach: Fire Boylan.
26) New York Knicks (18) - Just when I thought the Knicks were getting into the playoffs, then came their 5-game losing streak. Forget it.
27) Los Angeles Clippers - Mike Dunleavy, Sr. is saying to the organization that he is the best suit for the job. He is lying , isn't he?
28) Indiana Pacers (25) - 6 straight losses, no O'Neal, poor coaching, and the Pacers are headed to their worst season in years.
29) Memphis Grizzlies (26) - Trading your franchise player for a crappy Kwame Brown and other players might not be the best trade. Do they need salary cap space that badly?
30) Miami Heat - Losers of 18 of their last 19 games, the Heat has a new NBA title : The Worst Team.
The Lakers shook up the West friday, after trading
Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie,
2 first-rd draft picks, and the rights to Marc Gasol, for the face of the Memphis' franchise: Pau Gasol. From playoff contenders to championship contenders, Kobe won't be going anywhere right now.
Hero Team of the Week: Utah Jazz (8 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Indiana Pacers (6 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +8 Sonics, +5 T-Wolves, +5 Pistons, +4 Kings
Free Falls of the Week: -3 Hornets, Mavs, Cavs, Bulls, Pacers, Grizzlies
1) Boston Celtics (3) - Boston continues its stellar play since losing to the Magic and losing Kevin Garnett (abdominal strain), beating the Mavs and the win-less Heat.
2) Detroit Pistons (7) - Five straight wins by this Pistons team brought them up to the 2nd spot after bombarding the Mavs by their defense, 90-67.
3) Phoenix Suns (2) - After beating Atlanta by 33 points, they lost to the Parker-less Spurs 81-84. I should've dropped them down, but their stellar defense against the Spurs was awesome to me.
4) New Orleans Hornets (1) - After winning 9 straight, they lost 2 games in a row, a 13-points loss to the Warriors, and a 9-point scrub against the Kings. Two words: BACK to EARTH.
5) Los Angeles Lakers (6) - On his last three games, Kobe averaged 38.3 points and 60.9% from the field, and a one-point heart-braking loss against the Pistons was a blessing in disguise:
Pau Gasol was traded to the Lakers. Kobe+Gasol+Bynum+Odom+Fisher = rings. Watch out!
6) San Antonio Spurs (5) - The Spurs lost 3 straight, won the next game by 3 points with Ginobili making only 3 field goals. They are 3rd in the Southwest division standings, and they will sign Damon Stoudemire who wears jersey no.3. They'll fight 3 teams this week with 3 losing records. Enough of "3" factor, just hope that they'll get back Parker soon.
7) Dallas Mavericks (4) - The Mavs had their worst offensive performance this season. What's worst is that they lost 2 straight against playoff-caliber teams.
8) Orlando Magic - The Magic have won 4 straight, they'll play Dirk and Kobe this week, and the winning streak might be stopped sooner than later.
9) Denver Nuggets (10) - Carmelo Anthony is back, and the Bobcats got the worst of it, as Allen and Anthony combined for 49 points, 16 rebounds, and 17 assists. The schedule is no paradise though, as they fight Portland, Utah, and Washington this week.
10) Utah Jazz (13) - Winners of 8 straight, the Jazz are the hottest team on the league right now, New Orleans, Sacramento, and Denver would be their acid test this week.
11) Golden State Warriors (12) - With Webber back in action as a Warrior this week, expect this Golden State team to make another "noise" in the playoffs.
12) Cleveland Cavaliers (9) - Lebron came back in the lineup and the result: a 4-points win over the Clippers. That's not enough, as they fight Boston, Houston, and Atlanta this week.
13) Portland Trailblazers (11) - Portland is coming back to earth now, and they are getting out of the playoff picture.
14) Houston Rockets (15) - 200 million watched the game Saturday night, and were disappointed by their 2 countrymen as Yi and Yao combined for 6-21 from the field. But what' impressive is that they got their 3rd straight win, and will be looking to extend their winning streak this week.
15) Washington Wizards (14) - Kobe Bryant outscored the Wizards the entire first quarter, 19-15. They lost their third straight and this week might stretch their slump.
16) Sacramento Kings (20) - Winners of 4 straight, the Kings are getting serious contenders in the West, as they are looking to be the same team that went to the Conference Finals the last decade.
17) Toronto Raptors (16) -When they won against Boston, I was thinking that they are one of the Best in the East, but losing to the Lakers by 20 points in their homecourt made me wonder.
18) Charlotte Bobcats (17) - Inconsistency still plays a big role in this ballclub, and they need to get over it sooner than later.
19) Atlanta Hawks - This week, they'll fight 4 teams, and only one of them has a losing record. Smells like trouble.
20) New Jersey Nets - Believe it or not, Jason Kidd is showing that he is already tired of playing with the Nets, and before the trade deadline ends, there might be another franchise player to be traded.
21) Philadelphia 76ers (23) - Last week was a great week for the Sixers. They're getting stronger as a team, and that's a good sign: for next year.
22) Seattle Supersonics (30) - 3 straight wins? The Sonics are proving their worth now. But, who cares? They are still in pace for 58 losses now.
23) Minnesota Timberwolves (28) - Minnesota is playing like a team that will win 10 straight. Their finding their identity now. But that isn't enough for them to get into the playoffs, no, not for now.
24) Milwaukee Bucks - The Bucks have lost 3 straight, and as if it was not enough, they'll be playing the Mavs this week.
25) Chicago Bulls (22) - Chicago has a newly-found scorer: Kirk Hinrich. Chicago must find a new coach: Fire Boylan.
26) New York Knicks (18) - Just when I thought the Knicks were getting into the playoffs, then came their 5-game losing streak. Forget it.
27) Los Angeles Clippers - Mike Dunleavy, Sr. is saying to the organization that he is the best suit for the job. He is lying , isn't he?
28) Indiana Pacers (25) - 6 straight losses, no O'Neal, poor coaching, and the Pacers are headed to their worst season in years.
29) Memphis Grizzlies (26) - Trading your franchise player for a crappy Kwame Brown and other players might not be the best trade. Do they need salary cap space that badly?
30) Miami Heat - Losers of 18 of their last 19 games, the Heat has a new NBA title : The Worst Team.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Power Rankings - Week 3
The Way of the Hornets
Chris Paul and the Hornets move to the top after torching the Spurs Saturday night.
Who would have thought?
Hero Team of the Week: New Orleans Hornets (8 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Seattle Supersonics (14 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +5 Magic, +3 Knicks
Free Falls of the Week: -5 Blazers, -5 Warriors
1) New Orleans Hornets (3) - After a 24-point win over the home of the Spurs, I was thinking: The Hornets are the best team in the West. Tough schedule this week, as they fight 3 of the high-powered teams in the West.
2) Phoenix Suns (1) - Steve Nash and co. marred their perfect week at an ugly loss in Minnesota. That dropped them to the second spot.
3) Boston Celtics (2) - The Boston Celtics had lost to Toronto and Magic(w/o Garnett due to abdominal strain) this week, and a one-point win over Minnesota wasn't convincing on the part of the league's best team.
4) Dallas Mavericks (4) - After their most lop-sided loss of the season against the Wizards, they came back with three straight wins against Charlotte, LA, and Denver.
5) San Antonio Spurs (6) - The Spurs are still thinking about their latest loss. Maybe it's not the right time as they fight the Boozer-powered Jazz and the Nash-ty Suns this week.
6) Los Angeles Lakers (4) - Three straight losses to the league's most gifted teams, and the frontcourt needs more than a bunch of turnovers. And oh, passing when open is not good.
7) Detroit Pistons (9) - Detroit is regaining its veteran-team mentality as they held Orlando and Sixers under 100 points this week.
8) Orlando Magic (13) - Very tough games played this week, but they both won over Detroit and Boston.
9) Cleveland Cavaliers (12) - Winners of 8 of their last 10 games, the Cavs are bringing themselves up into the rankings again.
10) Denver Nuggets - They are 2-1 without Carmelo Anthony, the only loss coming against Dallas. But what's alarming is that they would lose another big man, Nene, who was known to have cancer.
11) Portland Trailblazers (6) - The Blazers are coming back down to earth and fighting Cleveland and New York won't help them to stay in the top next week.
12) Golden State Warriors (7) - Nothing could be more ugly than losing to Minnesota. Fighting the Rockets, New Orleans, and Charlotte would mean one word: "declination".
13) Utah Jazz - The Jazz are jelling very well and no one would want to face this team that's on a streak right now.
14) Washington Wizards (10) - Maybe they don't need Gilbert Arenas now, they are getting stronger and stronger and they are not afraid to play as a team. But the test this week is against Toronto and Utah.
15) Houston Rockets (16) - McGrady is back, and they are playing like the same team with energy this season. Expect the Rockets to play their best basketball of their lives.
16) Toronto Raptors (17) - A win against Boston proved to be the best win they had all season. This week would be another acid test for them as they square both the Arenas-less Wizards and the Bynum-less Lakers.
17) Charlotte Bobcats (17) - Saturday's loss to the Sixers made their coach question their hearts about basketball. Maybe it was the intangibles to blame?
18) New York Knicks (21) - If anyone would be a surprise next season, it would be this Knicks squad. They have been playing well since Marbury went out. And they don't need him, really.
19) Atlanta Hawks (18) - After an impressive first half start of the season, they are now on the brink of losing games again.
20) New Jersey Nets (19) - Nine-game losing streak. Make it 10, and expect re-shuffling of the team.
21) Sacramento Kings (20) - Kevin Martin, Mike Bibby, and Ron Artest are proving they can win against teams above .500. Charlotte and New Orleans would be a good test.
22) Chicago Bulls (20) - The Bulls are not doing much. Fire Boylan.
23) Philadelphia 76ers (25) - The Sixers are proving their worth, but not this year.
24) Milwaukee Bucks - It's very boring writing when you're in the bottom 10.
25) Indiana Pacers (23) - Like i said.
26) Memphis Grizzlies (27) - Refer to the 24.
27) Los Angeles Clippers (26) - *sleeps*
28) Minnesota Timberwolves (29) - The Wolves won 4 of the last 10 games. Maybe it seems ugly. But they already won half of their 1st ones.
29) Miami Heat (30) - At last they won. But right now, I think most Heat fans would like them to get the 1st pick.
30) Seattle Supersonics (29) - They are on pace to lose 60 games this season. Oh no. not another 1st round pick.
Power Rankings - Week 3
The Way of the Hornets
Chris Paul and the Hornets move to the top after torching the Spurs Saturday night.
Who would have thought?
Hero Team of the Week: New Orleans Hornets (8 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Seattle Supersonics (14 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +6 Suns, +5 Knicks
Free Falls of the Week: -5 Nets, -4 Mavs, -4 Pistons
1) New Orleans Hornets (3) - After a 24-point win over the home of the Spurs, I was thinking: The Hornets are the best team in the West. Tough schedule this week, as they fight 3 of the high-powered teams in the West.
2) Phoenix Suns (1) - Steve Nash and co. marred their perfect week at an ugly loss in Minnesota. That dropped them to the second spot.
3) Boston Celtics (2) - The Boston Celtics had lost to Toronto and Magic(w/o Garnett due to abdominal strain) this week, and a one-point win over Minnesota wasn't convincing on the part of the league's best team.
4) Dallas Mavericks (4) - After their most lop-sided loss of the season against the Wizards, they came back with three straight wins against Charlotte, LA, and Denver.
5) San Antonio Spurs (6) - The Spurs are still thinking about their latest loss. Maybe it's not the right time as they fight the Boozer-powered Jazz and the Nash-ty Suns this week.
6) Los Angeles Lakers (4) - Three straight losses to the league's most gifted teams, and the frontcourt needs more than a bunch of turnovers. And oh, passing when open is not good.
7) Detroit Pistons (9) - Detroit is regaining its veteran-team mentality as they held Orlando and Sixers under 100 points this week.
8) Orlando Magic (13) - Very tough games played this week, but they both won over Detroit and Boston.
9) Cleveland Cavaliers (12) - Winners of 8 of their last 10 games, the Cavs are bringing themselves up into the rankings again.
10) Denver Nuggets - They are 2-1 without Carmelo Anthony, the only loss coming against Dallas. But what's alarming is that they would lose another big man, Nene, who was known to have cancer.
11) Portland Trailblazers (6) - The Blazers are coming back down to earth and fighting Cleveland and New York won't help them to stay in the top next week.
12) Golden State Warriors (7) - Nothing could be more ugly than losing to Minnesota. Fighting the Rockets, New Orleans, and Charlotte would mean one word: "declination".
13) Utah Jazz - The Jazz are jelling very well and no one would want to face this team that's on a streak right now.
14) Washington Wizards (10) - Maybe they don't need Gilbert Arenas now, they are getting stronger and stronger and they are not afraid to play as a team. But the test this week is against Toronto and Utah.
15) Houston Rockets (16) - McGrady is back, and they are playing like the same team with energy this season. Expect the Rockets to play their best basketball of their lives.
16) Toronto Raptors (17) - A win against Boston proved to be the best win they had all season. This week would be another acid test for them as they square both the Arenas-less Wizards and the Bynum-less Lakers.
17) Charlotte Bobcats (17) - Saturday's loss to the Sixers made their coach question their hearts about basketball. Maybe it was the intangibles to blame?
18) New York Knicks (21) - If anyone would be a surprise next season, it would be this Knicks squad. They have been playing well since Marbury went out. And they don't need him, really.
19) Atlanta Hawks (18) - After an impressive first half start of the season, they are now on the brink of losing games again.
20) New Jersey Nets (19) - Nine-game losing streak. Make it 10, and expect re-shuffling of the team.
21) Sacramento Kings (20) - Kevin Martin, Mike Bibby, and Ron Artest are proving they can win against teams above .500. Charlotte and New Orleans would be a good test.
22) Chicago Bulls (20) - The Bulls are not doing much. Fire Boylan.
23) Philadelphia 76ers (25) - The Sixers are proving their worth, but not this year.
24) Milwaukee Bucks - It's very boring writing when you're in the bottom 10.
25) Indiana Pacers (23) - Like i said.
26) Memphis Grizzlies (27) - Refer to the 24.
27) Los Angeles Clippers (26) - *sleeps*
28) Minnesota Timberwolves (29) - The Wolves won 4 of the last 10 games. Maybe it seems ugly. But they already won half of their 1st ones.
29) Miami Heat (30) - At last they won. But right now, I think most Heat fans would like them to get the 1st pick.
30) Seattle Supersonics (29) - They are on pace to lose 60 games this season. Oh no. not another 1st round pick.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Power Rankings - Week 2
Welcome to the 2nd edition of NBA Power Rankings.
The teams' standings are based on how they've fared during the past week.
"Back into Action"
The Suns are back. And they've done it by outscoring their last 2 opponents by 20+ points.
The Suns are too hot to handle, again. Is this the time where the two-time MVP will win a title? Can happen.
Hero Team of the Week: Phoenix Suns (3 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Miami Heat (13 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +6 Suns, +5 Knicks
Free Falls of the Week: -5 Nets, -4 Mavs, -4 Pistons
1) Phoenix Suns (7) - The Suns' offense has made them one of the best teams in the West. Even with Grant Hill out, the high-powered Suns offense is still clicking. And oh, you may not want to fight them if you have a back-to-back game. Ask Jason Kidd and the Nets.
2) Boston Celtics - Ray Allen has been averaging 24.5ppg over the last 7 days. And he's doing it with 54.2% from the field, along with 2 steals. Now, who said Allen was old?
3) New Orleans Hornets (6) - The Hornets are playing unrelenting, merciless basketball since getting embarrassed by the Los Angeles Lakers on their home court last week. They've won four straight and have been blowing off teams by an average of 22.5 points. Yes, 22.5 points.
4) Los Angeles Lakers (3) - KB24 and co. is now 1-1 during Bynum's absence. Very tough schedule as they fight Denver, San Antonio, Dallas, and Cleveland all in this week. We need to call 9-1-1.
5) Dallas Mavericks (1) - The Mavs lost to a Bibby-less, Artest-less Kings. Now, that's nasty. But what's nastier is, they're going to fight four of the hottest teams in the league this week, Washington, Charlotte, Lakers, and Denver.
6) Portland Trailblazers (8) - They learned lessons during their 5-game road trip, and that is to close out games.
7) Golden State Warriors (10) - A loss at Indiana marred their almost perfect week, as they went 4-1. But nothing beats this ballclub when it comes to getting hot really fast, as they had a 41-point 3rd quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks last week.
8) San Antonio Spurs (4) - The Spurs suddenly looked old and sluggish as they were handed 2 losses by both the Cavaliers and the Rockets.
9) Detroit Pistons (5) - A 24-point loss to the Knicks, a 14-point win over the Raptors, a 7-point loss against the Kings, and a 16-point loss to the Bulls. What's wrong with this ball club?
10) Washington Wizards - A loss at New York marred this team's recent surge. But beating Boston was the most talked about. Why? They're the first team to beat the Boston, not once , but TWICE, I repeat, TWICE.
11) Denver Nuggets (9) - The Nuggets suffered Nene's loss. And it proved to be the pivotal point as to where the Nuggets will stay: as a mediocre team.
12) Cleveland Cavliers (15) - Coach Mike Brown went back to his lineup where they went to the NBA Finals last year. The result? The Cavs won 8 of their last 10 games.
13) Orlando Magic (12) - This team lost 4 of their last 10 games, including 4 straight on the road, to add to that misery, they will be fighting Detroit twice, and Boston once.
14) Toronto Raptors (13) - Chris Bosh is doing well by scoring loads of points, but it doesn't really help their record.
15) Utah Jazz (16) - On Thursday, the Nuggets beat them by 11 points. Maybe you don't want to fight them when they lose. Ask the Clippers, they got beat by 18 points.
16) Houston Rockets (17) - Now McGrady's back, they finally went back to the same old style they've been known, as defensive players, as they went wire-to-wire against the Spurs and won the game 83-31.
17) Charlotte Bobcats (18) - The Bobcats are maturing and are finally getting into grooved. What's more? There are two players that can give you 40 points per game there.
18) Atlanta Hawks (19) - The Hawks have lost 7 of their last 10. And the bad news is they're going to play Portland twice this week and square off against the Nuggets.
19) New Jersey Nets (14) - This team is not in a slump. It's just the fact that they don't play well together. Losers of 5 straight, you might be seeing one of their Big Three in another uniform by the end of the All-Star Break.
20) Sacramento Kings (23) - This is the first time the Kings are healthy the past 2 seasons, expect to see the late playoff push.
21) New York Knicks (26) - Isaiah regained the trust of his team. They might be heading to the playoffs this year. You may think I'm absurd. But seeing them play their last 5 games, especially when they beat 4 playoff teams last year, there is no doubt there will be a playoff push.
22) Chicago Bulls (20) - In a season of great disappointment, there is only one positive thing stuck in this Bulls team's head: They won 3 times this season against the Detroit Pistons
23) Indiana Pacers (22) - With Bibby returning this month, expect the Kings to get a boost from their offense.
24) Milwaukee Bucks (21) - The Bucks are still an inconsistent team, but who's to blame? 4 games in 5 days this week, including Phoenix, Raptors, and Hornets, nothing gets worse.
25) Philadelphia 76ers (24) - The Sixers showed a game against the Celtics. At least for a half.
26) LA Clippers (27) - The Clippers won against two of the league's premier point guards, Jason Kidd and Steve Nash, but at the end of the day, they're still a poor team.
27) Memphis Grizzlies (25) - Two Words: Top Pick 2008. Oh, that was three.
28) Minnesota Timberwolves (29) - I'm tired, really.
29) Seattle Supersonics (28)- There are two teams that have double digit losing streaks, one is this team.
30) Miami Heat - The other is this one *duh*.
The teams' standings are based on how they've fared during the past week.
"Back into Action"
The Suns are back. And they've done it by outscoring their last 2 opponents by 20+ points.
The Suns are too hot to handle, again. Is this the time where the two-time MVP will win a title? Can happen.
Hero Team of the Week: Phoenix Suns (3 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Miami Heat (13 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +6 Suns, +5 Knicks
Free Falls of the Week: -5 Nets, -4 Mavs, -4 Pistons
1) Phoenix Suns (7) - The Suns' offense has made them one of the best teams in the West. Even with Grant Hill out, the high-powered Suns offense is still clicking. And oh, you may not want to fight them if you have a back-to-back game. Ask Jason Kidd and the Nets.
2) Boston Celtics - Ray Allen has been averaging 24.5ppg over the last 7 days. And he's doing it with 54.2% from the field, along with 2 steals. Now, who said Allen was old?
3) New Orleans Hornets (6) - The Hornets are playing unrelenting, merciless basketball since getting embarrassed by the Los Angeles Lakers on their home court last week. They've won four straight and have been blowing off teams by an average of 22.5 points. Yes, 22.5 points.
4) Los Angeles Lakers (3) - KB24 and co. is now 1-1 during Bynum's absence. Very tough schedule as they fight Denver, San Antonio, Dallas, and Cleveland all in this week. We need to call 9-1-1.
5) Dallas Mavericks (1) - The Mavs lost to a Bibby-less, Artest-less Kings. Now, that's nasty. But what's nastier is, they're going to fight four of the hottest teams in the league this week, Washington, Charlotte, Lakers, and Denver.
6) Portland Trailblazers (8) - They learned lessons during their 5-game road trip, and that is to close out games.
7) Golden State Warriors (10) - A loss at Indiana marred their almost perfect week, as they went 4-1. But nothing beats this ballclub when it comes to getting hot really fast, as they had a 41-point 3rd quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks last week.
8) San Antonio Spurs (4) - The Spurs suddenly looked old and sluggish as they were handed 2 losses by both the Cavaliers and the Rockets.
9) Detroit Pistons (5) - A 24-point loss to the Knicks, a 14-point win over the Raptors, a 7-point loss against the Kings, and a 16-point loss to the Bulls. What's wrong with this ball club?
10) Washington Wizards - A loss at New York marred this team's recent surge. But beating Boston was the most talked about. Why? They're the first team to beat the Boston, not once , but TWICE, I repeat, TWICE.
11) Denver Nuggets (9) - The Nuggets suffered Nene's loss. And it proved to be the pivotal point as to where the Nuggets will stay: as a mediocre team.
12) Cleveland Cavliers (15) - Coach Mike Brown went back to his lineup where they went to the NBA Finals last year. The result? The Cavs won 8 of their last 10 games.
13) Orlando Magic (12) - This team lost 4 of their last 10 games, including 4 straight on the road, to add to that misery, they will be fighting Detroit twice, and Boston once.
14) Toronto Raptors (13) - Chris Bosh is doing well by scoring loads of points, but it doesn't really help their record.
15) Utah Jazz (16) - On Thursday, the Nuggets beat them by 11 points. Maybe you don't want to fight them when they lose. Ask the Clippers, they got beat by 18 points.
16) Houston Rockets (17) - Now McGrady's back, they finally went back to the same old style they've been known, as defensive players, as they went wire-to-wire against the Spurs and won the game 83-31.
17) Charlotte Bobcats (18) - The Bobcats are maturing and are finally getting into grooved. What's more? There are two players that can give you 40 points per game there.
18) Atlanta Hawks (19) - The Hawks have lost 7 of their last 10. And the bad news is they're going to play Portland twice this week and square off against the Nuggets.
19) New Jersey Nets (14) - This team is not in a slump. It's just the fact that they don't play well together. Losers of 5 straight, you might be seeing one of their Big Three in another uniform by the end of the All-Star Break.
20) Sacramento Kings (23) - This is the first time the Kings are healthy the past 2 seasons, expect to see the late playoff push.
21) New York Knicks (26) - Isaiah regained the trust of his team. They might be heading to the playoffs this year. You may think I'm absurd. But seeing them play their last 5 games, especially when they beat 4 playoff teams last year, there is no doubt there will be a playoff push.
22) Chicago Bulls (20) - In a season of great disappointment, there is only one positive thing stuck in this Bulls team's head: They won 3 times this season against the Detroit Pistons
23) Indiana Pacers (22) - With Bibby returning this month, expect the Kings to get a boost from their offense.
24) Milwaukee Bucks (21) - The Bucks are still an inconsistent team, but who's to blame? 4 games in 5 days this week, including Phoenix, Raptors, and Hornets, nothing gets worse.
25) Philadelphia 76ers (24) - The Sixers showed a game against the Celtics. At least for a half.
26) LA Clippers (27) - The Clippers won against two of the league's premier point guards, Jason Kidd and Steve Nash, but at the end of the day, they're still a poor team.
27) Memphis Grizzlies (25) - Two Words: Top Pick 2008. Oh, that was three.
28) Minnesota Timberwolves (29) - I'm tired, really.
29) Seattle Supersonics (28)- There are two teams that have double digit losing streaks, one is this team.
30) Miami Heat - The other is this one *duh*.
Power Rankings - Week 2
Welcome to the 2nd edition of NBA Power Rankings.
The teams' standings are based on how they've fared during the past week.
"Back into Action"
The Suns are back. And they've done it by outscoring their last 2 opponents by 20+ points.
The Suns are too hot to handle, again. Is this the time where the two-time MVP will win a title? Can happen.
Hero Team of the Week: Phoenix Suns (3 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Miami Heat (13 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +6 Suns, +7 Bobcats,
Free Falls of the Week: -3 Pistons, -3 Miami
1) Phoenix Suns (7) - The Suns' offense has made them one of the best teams in the West. Even with Grant Hill out, the high-powered Suns offense is still clicking. And oh, you may not want to fight them if you have a back-to-back game. Ask Jason Kidd and the Nets.
2) Boston Celtics - Ray Allen has been averaging 24.5ppg over the last 7 days. And he's doing it with 54.2% from the field, along with 2 steals. Now, who said Allen was old?
3) New Orleans Hornets (6) - The Hornets are playing unrelenting, merciless basketball since getting embarrassed by the Los Angeles Lakers on their home court last week. They've won four straight and have been blowing off teams by an average of 22.5 points. Yes, 22.5 points.
4) Los Angeles Lakers (3) - KB24 and co. is now 1-1 during Bynum's absence. Very tough schedule as they fight Denver, San Antonio, Dallas, and Cleveland all in this week. We need to call 9-1-1.
5) Dallas Mavericks (1) - The Mavs lost to a Bibby-less, Artest-less Kings. Now, that's nasty. But what's nastier is, they're going to fight four of the hottest teams in the league this week, Washington, Charlotte, Lakers, and Denver.
6) Portland Trailblazers (8) - They learned lessons during their 5-game road trip, and that is to close out games.
7) Golden State Warriors (10) - A loss at Indiana marred their almost perfect week, as they went 4-1. But nothing beats this ballclub when it comes to getting hot really fast, as they had a 41-point 3rd quarted against the Milwaukee Bucks last week.
8) San Antonio Spurs (4) - The Spurs suddenly looked old and sluggish as they were handed 2 losses by both the Cavaliers and the Rockets.
9) Detroit Pistons (5) - A 24-point loss to the Knicks, a 14-points win over the Raptors, a 7-point loss against the Kings, and a 16-points loss to the Bulls. What's wrong with this ball club?
10) Washington Wizards - A loss at New York marred this team's recent surge. But beating Boston was the most talked about. Why? They're the first team to beat the Boston, not once , but TWICE, I repeat, TWICE.
11) Denver Nuggets (9) - The Nuggets suffered Nene's loss. And it proved to be the pivotal point as to where the Nuggets will stay: as a mediocre team.
12) Cleveland Cavliers (15) - Coach Mike Brown went back to his lineup where they went to the NBA Finals last year. The result? The Cavs won 8 of their last 10 games.
13) Orlando Magic (12) - This team lost 4 of their last 10 games, including 4 straight on the road, to add to that misery, they will be fighting Detroit twice, and Boston once.
14) Toronto Raptors (13) - Chris Bosh is doing well by scoring loads of points, but it doesn't really help their record.
15) Utah Jazz (16) - On Thursday, the Nuggets beat them by 11 points. Maybe you don't want to fight them when they lose. Ask the Clippers, they got beat by 18 points.
16) Houston Rockets (17) - Now McGrady's back, they finally went back to the same old style they've been known, as defensive players, as they went wire-to-wire against the Spurs and won the game 83-31.
17) Charlotte Bobcats (18) - The Bobcats are maturing and are finally getting into grooved. What's more? There are two players that can give you 40 points per game there.
18) Atlanta Hawks (19) - The Hawks have lost 7 of their last 10. And the bad news is they're going to play Portland twice this week and square off against the Nuggets.
19) New Jersey Nets (14) - This team is not in a slump. It's just the fact that they don't play well together. Losers of 5 straight, you might be seeing one of their Big Three in another uniform by the end of the All-Star Break.
20) Sacramento Kings (23) - This is the first time the Kings are healthy the past 2 seasons, expect to see the late playoff push.
21) New York Knicks (26) - Isaiah regained the trust of his team. They might be heading to the playoffs this year. You may think I'm absurd. But seeing them play their last 5 games, especially when they beat 4 playoff teams last year, there is no doubt there will be a playoff push.
22) Chicago Bulls (20) - In a season of great disappointment, there is only one positive thing stuck in this Bulls team's head: They won 3 times this season against the Detroit Pistons
23) Indiana Pacers (22) - With Bibby returning this month, expect the Kings to get a boost from their offense.
24) Milwaukee Bucks (21) - The Bucks are still an inconsistent team, but who's to blame? 4 games in 5 days this week, including Phoenix, Raptors, and Hornets, nothing gets worse.
25) Philadelphia 76ers (24) - The Sixers showed a game against the Celtics. At least for a half.
26) LA Clippers (27) - The Clippers won against two of the league's premier point guards, Jason Kidd and Steve Nash, but at the end of the day, they're still a poor team.
27) Memphis Grizzlies (25) - Two Words: Top Pick 2008. Oh, that was three.
28) Minnesota Timberwolves (29) - I'm tired, really.
29) Seattle Supersonics (28)- There are two teams that have double digit losing streaks, one is this team.
30) Miami Heat - The other is this one *duh*.
The teams' standings are based on how they've fared during the past week.
"Back into Action"
The Suns are back. And they've done it by outscoring their last 2 opponents by 20+ points.
The Suns are too hot to handle, again. Is this the time where the two-time MVP will win a title? Can happen.
Hero Team of the Week: Phoenix Suns (3 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Miami Heat (13 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +6 Suns, +7 Bobcats,
Free Falls of the Week: -3 Pistons, -3 Miami
1) Phoenix Suns (7) - The Suns' offense has made them one of the best teams in the West. Even with Grant Hill out, the high-powered Suns offense is still clicking. And oh, you may not want to fight them if you have a back-to-back game. Ask Jason Kidd and the Nets.
2) Boston Celtics - Ray Allen has been averaging 24.5ppg over the last 7 days. And he's doing it with 54.2% from the field, along with 2 steals. Now, who said Allen was old?
3) New Orleans Hornets (6) - The Hornets are playing unrelenting, merciless basketball since getting embarrassed by the Los Angeles Lakers on their home court last week. They've won four straight and have been blowing off teams by an average of 22.5 points. Yes, 22.5 points.
4) Los Angeles Lakers (3) - KB24 and co. is now 1-1 during Bynum's absence. Very tough schedule as they fight Denver, San Antonio, Dallas, and Cleveland all in this week. We need to call 9-1-1.
5) Dallas Mavericks (1) - The Mavs lost to a Bibby-less, Artest-less Kings. Now, that's nasty. But what's nastier is, they're going to fight four of the hottest teams in the league this week, Washington, Charlotte, Lakers, and Denver.
6) Portland Trailblazers (8) - They learned lessons during their 5-game road trip, and that is to close out games.
7) Golden State Warriors (10) - A loss at Indiana marred their almost perfect week, as they went 4-1. But nothing beats this ballclub when it comes to getting hot really fast, as they had a 41-point 3rd quarted against the Milwaukee Bucks last week.
8) San Antonio Spurs (4) - The Spurs suddenly looked old and sluggish as they were handed 2 losses by both the Cavaliers and the Rockets.
9) Detroit Pistons (5) - A 24-point loss to the Knicks, a 14-points win over the Raptors, a 7-point loss against the Kings, and a 16-points loss to the Bulls. What's wrong with this ball club?
10) Washington Wizards - A loss at New York marred this team's recent surge. But beating Boston was the most talked about. Why? They're the first team to beat the Boston, not once , but TWICE, I repeat, TWICE.
11) Denver Nuggets (9) - The Nuggets suffered Nene's loss. And it proved to be the pivotal point as to where the Nuggets will stay: as a mediocre team.
12) Cleveland Cavliers (15) - Coach Mike Brown went back to his lineup where they went to the NBA Finals last year. The result? The Cavs won 8 of their last 10 games.
13) Orlando Magic (12) - This team lost 4 of their last 10 games, including 4 straight on the road, to add to that misery, they will be fighting Detroit twice, and Boston once.
14) Toronto Raptors (13) - Chris Bosh is doing well by scoring loads of points, but it doesn't really help their record.
15) Utah Jazz (16) - On Thursday, the Nuggets beat them by 11 points. Maybe you don't want to fight them when they lose. Ask the Clippers, they got beat by 18 points.
16) Houston Rockets (17) - Now McGrady's back, they finally went back to the same old style they've been known, as defensive players, as they went wire-to-wire against the Spurs and won the game 83-31.
17) Charlotte Bobcats (18) - The Bobcats are maturing and are finally getting into grooved. What's more? There are two players that can give you 40 points per game there.
18) Atlanta Hawks (19) - The Hawks have lost 7 of their last 10. And the bad news is they're going to play Portland twice this week and square off against the Nuggets.
19) New Jersey Nets (14) - This team is not in a slump. It's just the fact that they don't play well together. Losers of 5 straight, you might be seeing one of their Big Three in another uniform by the end of the All-Star Break.
20) Sacramento Kings (23) - This is the first time the Kings are healthy the past 2 seasons, expect to see the late playoff push.
21) New York Knicks (26) - Isaiah regained the trust of his team. They might be heading to the playoffs this year. You may think I'm absurd. But seeing them play their last 5 games, especially when they beat 4 playoff teams last year, there is no doubt there will be a playoff push.
22) Chicago Bulls (20) - In a season of great disappointment, there is only one positive thing stuck in this Bulls team's head: They won 3 times this season against the Detroit Pistons
23) Indiana Pacers (22) - With Bibby returning this month, expect the Kings to get a boost from their offense.
24) Milwaukee Bucks (21) - The Bucks are still an inconsistent team, but who's to blame? 4 games in 5 days this week, including Phoenix, Raptors, and Hornets, nothing gets worse.
25) Philadelphia 76ers (24) - The Sixers showed a game against the Celtics. At least for a half.
26) LA Clippers (27) - The Clippers won against two of the league's premier point guards, Jason Kidd and Steve Nash, but at the end of the day, they're still a poor team.
27) Memphis Grizzlies (25) - Two Words: Top Pick 2008. Oh, that was three.
28) Minnesota Timberwolves (29) - I'm tired, really.
29) Seattle Supersonics (28)- There are two teams that have double digit losing streaks, one is this team.
30) Miami Heat - The other is this one *duh*.
Monday, January 14, 2008
The Boston Thriller
"Kevin might put up the numbers, but Butler is the man of the moment."Many of you probably have watched the games tonight.
And probably you were surprised.
A Charlotte team beat the Denver Nuggets.
A Sacramento team beat the Dallas Mavericks.
But probably the most shocking news: A Wizards team without their star player beat the team with the best record in the league, with the Big Three in it, the Boston Celtics.
Not once, twice.
I repeat, TWICE.
As weird as it is, the Celtics were handed their first back-to-back loss of the season.
And it happened because of the Washington Wizards.
BOSTON (AP) - After a successful sweep of the league-leading Boston Celtics, the Washington Wizards are starting to think big even without a healthy Gilbert Arenas.
Caron Butler scored 21 and Washington beat Boston 88-83 on Monday night for the Wizards' second victory over the Celtics in three days.
"Our eyes are on winning a championship," Butler said. "Hopefully we get Gilbert back by March and when he comes back we will be even more dangerous."
Antawn Jamison added 20 points and 10 rebounds for the Wizards, who handed Boston its first two-game losing streak of the season.
Butler scored nine points during a 25-6 run over the final 6:24 of the fourth quarter to give the Wizards their fifth win in the last six games overall and against Boston.
"It's tough to lose at home," Celtics coach Doc Rivers said. "We let our guard down and had a chance to keep them down."
Boston also lost consecutive games at home for the first time all season and dropped to 30-6. The Celtics are 2-3 over their last five and have averaged 85 points a game over that span.
"As much as we preach defense, offensively I think we've hit a little snag," Celtics guard Ray Allen said.
Eddie House scored his only five points of the game to give the Celtics their largest lead at 77-63 with 6:24 remaining before the Wizards rallied.
Trailing by 14, the Wizards went on an improbable 19-4 run to take an 82-81 lead with 40.1 seconds remaining capped off by a Butler lay in and foul shot after being fouled by Kendrick Perkins.
On the ensuing possession, Kevin Garnett failed on a 3-pointer, but Paul Pierce was fouled on the rebound and sank both free throws to regain the lead for Boston at 83-82. Butler then responded with a high-arcing lay-up as he beat Pierce off the dribble with 19.6 seconds remaining.
Garnett failed on another chance to regain the lead for Boston when his turnaround jumper clanked off the back rim. Butler got the rebound and hit a pair of free throws for an 86-83 lead with 8.3 seconds remaining. After calling a 20-second timeout, the Celtics inbounded to Allen whose 3-pointer fell way short before DeShawn Stevenson clinched the game with two free throws.
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Washington shot a combined 37 percent in its two victories, but shut down the struggling Celtics offense. Brendan Haywood scored 14 points and grabbed seven rebounds and was very effective against Garnett.
Garnett led the Celtics with 23 points while Pierce added 18.
"We didn't stop playing, we just didn't hit our shots," Garnett said. "We need to fix things before Portland."
The Celtics struggled to a 37-35 halftime lead while shooting 43 percent. Stevenson led Washington with 11 while shooting 3-of-4 from beyond the arc, despite the Wizards shooting 35 percent overall.
Point guards Rajon Rondo and House combined to score nine points while shooting a combined 4-for-15 for Boston.
OTHER GAMES PLAYED THAT NIGHT:
Denver 116 - Marcus Camby 20 points (7-14 FG), 23 rebs, 6 asts, 6 BS
Charlotte 119 - Gerald Wallace 40 points (13-24 FG), 8 rebs, 5 asts, 2 stls, 2 BS
Portland 99 - LaMarcus Aldridge 20 points (9-18 FG), 7 rebs, 3 asts
New Jersey 73 - Malik Allen 17 points (8-14 FG), 8 rebs
Philadelphia 82 - W. Green 21 points (8-12 FG), 4 rebs, 1 ast, 1 stl
San Antonio 89 - Tim Duncan 18 points (8-14 FG), 16 rebs, 6 asts, 2 BS
Milwaukee 87 - Andrew Bogut 23 points (9-12 FG), 10 rebs, 3 asts, 1 BS
Utah 98 - Deron Williams 33 points (8-14 FG), 5 rebs, 10 asts, 4 stls
LA Lakers 123 - Kobe Bryant 48 points (21-44 FG), 2 rebs, 2 asts, 1 stl
Seattle 121 - Nick Collison 24 points (10-16 FG), 18 rebs, 1 ast, 1 stl, 2 BS
Dallas 120 - Devin Harris 25 points (8-10 FG), 1 reb, 9 asts
Sacramento 122 - Kevin Martin 39 points (14-16 FG), 3 rebs, 1 ast, 1 stl
For more NBA News and actions, go to: http://sports.yahoo.com/nba
Portland 99 - LaMarcus Aldridge 20 points (9-18 FG), 7 rebs, 3 asts
New Jersey 73 - Malik Allen 17 points (8-14 FG), 8 rebs
Philadelphia 82 - W. Green 21 points (8-12 FG), 4 rebs, 1 ast, 1 stl
San Antonio 89 - Tim Duncan 18 points (8-14 FG), 16 rebs, 6 asts, 2 BS
Milwaukee 87 - Andrew Bogut 23 points (9-12 FG), 10 rebs, 3 asts, 1 BS
Utah 98 - Deron Williams 33 points (8-14 FG), 5 rebs, 10 asts, 4 stls
LA Lakers 123 - Kobe Bryant 48 points (21-44 FG), 2 rebs, 2 asts, 1 stl
Seattle 121 - Nick Collison 24 points (10-16 FG), 18 rebs, 1 ast, 1 stl, 2 BS
Dallas 120 - Devin Harris 25 points (8-10 FG), 1 reb, 9 asts
Sacramento 122 - Kevin Martin 39 points (14-16 FG), 3 rebs, 1 ast, 1 stl
For more NBA News and actions, go to: http://sports.yahoo.com/nba
Top 3 - Week 1
This is another "first" in my blog.
Every week, we'll look at the Top 3 things to watch around the NBA.
May it be a game, or just another "thing", I'm gonna provide you some of the highlights of the week.
THE TOP 3:
1) Portland vs Boston -
This bout is a must-see between two of the hottest teams in the league. The Boston have been in a recent slump, and it might not be the right time on Wednesday (Thursday in the Philippines), as they fight a young Blazers team who have won 17 of their last 19 games.
2) Lakers vs Suns -
With Bynum out at least two months, Mike D' Antoni might be happy, but that's not the case.
Because the Lakers' bench are averaging 40.5 against them, and that might be the factor again.
3) Cleveland vs San Antonio -
A matchup between last year's NBA Finals, where the Spurs swept the Cavs 4-0. The Cavs are a little bit of disappointing now, but they fare well against them. So let's see on Wednesday.
Every week, we'll look at the Top 3 things to watch around the NBA.
May it be a game, or just another "thing", I'm gonna provide you some of the highlights of the week.
THE TOP 3:
1) Portland vs Boston -
This bout is a must-see between two of the hottest teams in the league. The Boston have been in a recent slump, and it might not be the right time on Wednesday (Thursday in the Philippines), as they fight a young Blazers team who have won 17 of their last 19 games.
2) Lakers vs Suns -
With Bynum out at least two months, Mike D' Antoni might be happy, but that's not the case.
Because the Lakers' bench are averaging 40.5 against them, and that might be the factor again.
3) Cleveland vs San Antonio -
A matchup between last year's NBA Finals, where the Spurs swept the Cavs 4-0. The Cavs are a little bit of disappointing now, but they fare well against them. So let's see on Wednesday.
Power Rankings - Week 1
It's been a while since I blogged.
I've been busy.
But since then, I'm back as a Top Contributor in Yahoo! Answers, Basketball Section.
And now, every week I'll be posting this new section called, NBA Power Rankings.
I'll also be giving updates, rumors , and schedules, and even breakdowns as to where the teams are right now.
"Climbing and Crumbling into the Rankings"
The Lakers are doing a good job of getting up again, and again in the rankings, but with Bynum out, will there be happening another let-down?
Hero Team of the Week: Los Angeles Lakers (6 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Miami Heat (10 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +7 Mavericks, +7 Bobcats,
Free Falls of the Week: -3 Pistons, -3 Miami,
1) Dallas Mavericks - Nowitzki is back into his strength again, as a shooter and not a passer, and the MAvs are back into their winning ways again, winners of 7 straight.
2) Boston Celtics - losing 2 out of three against teams that were incapable of beating .500 teams is a very bad sign.
3) Los Angeles Lakers - the Lakers are on a 6-game winning streak and trying to go for 7, the last time they did that? they went to the Finals. With Bynum out for at least a week or two, will the Lakers continue to surge up the top spot? Besides, they're just a half game away.
4) San Antonio Spurs - the Big Three is getting into the groove, let's welcome them back.
5) Detroit Pistons - the Pistons suffered an embarrassing loss against the Knicks, nothing could have been worst than that.
6) New Orleans Hornets - Winners of 10 of their last 12 games, the Hornets have been firing on all cylinders so far.
But the bench might not be.
7) Phoenix Suns - With Nash and Marion back, the Phoenix won again, but they had let the Bucks hang on for such a long time.
8) Portland Trailblazers - The youngest team in the NBA have just had their 2nd loss in 19 games. Now, that's a pretty good record, but a heartbreaking loss at Toronto proved to be the toughest point.
9) Denver Nuggets - The question still remains as whether the Nuggets can really put up a great team, and that still bothers A.I.
10) Washington Wizards - A win over Boston is a very good sign, but it's just one win, so just focus.
11) Golden State Warriors - An impressive win over the past few weeks, including the win over Memphis, where Baron Davis handed out 19 assists, but still, the inconsistency is there.
12) Orlando Magic - After winning 16 of their 21 road games, the Magic had dropped their last three. And that isn't a good sign.
13) Toronto Raptors - A win over the Blazers might be enough for these Raptors ballclub to come alive again.
14) New Jersey Nets - New Jersey must learn how to keep big leads, especially the one they had at home over Boston.
15) Cleveland Cavaliers - Lebron James is capable of scoring points, but can his teammates?
16) Utah Jazz - Since that trade involving sharpshooter Kyle Korver, the Utah Jazz had now won three straight.
17) Houston Rockets - 7-3 without McGrady isn't bad, losing at home is.
18) Charlotte Bobcats - Very impressive performances against Boston and Detroit, but they need to learn how to close out games.
19) Atlanta Hawks - The Atlanta Hawks are doing fine this season... Ok. Maybe I was going too far, they have been better than last year.
20) Chicago Bulls - Since Boylan took over, the Bulls remained as an incomplete team. Adding to that is the benching of Joakim Noah.
21) Milwaukee Bucks - The Bucks' have been sometimes great, and sometimes bad. Inconsistency is still the main factor.
22) Indiana Pacers - The Pacers have lost 11 of their last 13 games. There's no excuse Jermaine.
23) Sacramento Kings - With Bibby returning this month, expect the Kings to get a boost from their offense.
24) Philadelphia 76ers - After seeing them play, the Sixers are off to another run: The Run for the Top Pick in 2008.
25) Memphis Grizzlies - Marc Lavaroni mentioned how "Under their control or not under their control, they've proven to be real fighters", but that ends there.
26) New York Knicks - Who would have thought that the Knicks team with Isaiah Thomas as coach would beat the Detroit? Or maybe Detroit just beat themselves...
27) LA Clippers - This team had been hanging on against pretty good teams, the problem is they always lose.
28) Seattle Supersonics - Losers of 6 of 7, nothing could get more worst than losing your superstar by an injury.
29) Minnesota Timberwolves - They beat Miami.
30) Miami Heat - They beat no one.
I've been busy.
But since then, I'm back as a Top Contributor in Yahoo! Answers, Basketball Section.
And now, every week I'll be posting this new section called, NBA Power Rankings.
I'll also be giving updates, rumors , and schedules, and even breakdowns as to where the teams are right now.
"Climbing and Crumbling into the Rankings"
The Lakers are doing a good job of getting up again, and again in the rankings, but with Bynum out, will there be happening another let-down?
Hero Team of the Week: Los Angeles Lakers (6 straight wins)
Zero Team of the Week: Miami Heat (10 straight losses)
High Jumps of the Week: +7 Mavericks, +7 Bobcats,
Free Falls of the Week: -3 Pistons, -3 Miami,
1) Dallas Mavericks - Nowitzki is back into his strength again, as a shooter and not a passer, and the MAvs are back into their winning ways again, winners of 7 straight.
2) Boston Celtics - losing 2 out of three against teams that were incapable of beating .500 teams is a very bad sign.
3) Los Angeles Lakers - the Lakers are on a 6-game winning streak and trying to go for 7, the last time they did that? they went to the Finals. With Bynum out for at least a week or two, will the Lakers continue to surge up the top spot? Besides, they're just a half game away.
4) San Antonio Spurs - the Big Three is getting into the groove, let's welcome them back.
5) Detroit Pistons - the Pistons suffered an embarrassing loss against the Knicks, nothing could have been worst than that.
6) New Orleans Hornets - Winners of 10 of their last 12 games, the Hornets have been firing on all cylinders so far.
But the bench might not be.
7) Phoenix Suns - With Nash and Marion back, the Phoenix won again, but they had let the Bucks hang on for such a long time.
8) Portland Trailblazers - The youngest team in the NBA have just had their 2nd loss in 19 games. Now, that's a pretty good record, but a heartbreaking loss at Toronto proved to be the toughest point.
9) Denver Nuggets - The question still remains as whether the Nuggets can really put up a great team, and that still bothers A.I.
10) Washington Wizards - A win over Boston is a very good sign, but it's just one win, so just focus.
11) Golden State Warriors - An impressive win over the past few weeks, including the win over Memphis, where Baron Davis handed out 19 assists, but still, the inconsistency is there.
12) Orlando Magic - After winning 16 of their 21 road games, the Magic had dropped their last three. And that isn't a good sign.
13) Toronto Raptors - A win over the Blazers might be enough for these Raptors ballclub to come alive again.
14) New Jersey Nets - New Jersey must learn how to keep big leads, especially the one they had at home over Boston.
15) Cleveland Cavaliers - Lebron James is capable of scoring points, but can his teammates?
16) Utah Jazz - Since that trade involving sharpshooter Kyle Korver, the Utah Jazz had now won three straight.
17) Houston Rockets - 7-3 without McGrady isn't bad, losing at home is.
18) Charlotte Bobcats - Very impressive performances against Boston and Detroit, but they need to learn how to close out games.
19) Atlanta Hawks - The Atlanta Hawks are doing fine this season... Ok. Maybe I was going too far, they have been better than last year.
20) Chicago Bulls - Since Boylan took over, the Bulls remained as an incomplete team. Adding to that is the benching of Joakim Noah.
21) Milwaukee Bucks - The Bucks' have been sometimes great, and sometimes bad. Inconsistency is still the main factor.
22) Indiana Pacers - The Pacers have lost 11 of their last 13 games. There's no excuse Jermaine.
23) Sacramento Kings - With Bibby returning this month, expect the Kings to get a boost from their offense.
24) Philadelphia 76ers - After seeing them play, the Sixers are off to another run: The Run for the Top Pick in 2008.
25) Memphis Grizzlies - Marc Lavaroni mentioned how "Under their control or not under their control, they've proven to be real fighters", but that ends there.
26) New York Knicks - Who would have thought that the Knicks team with Isaiah Thomas as coach would beat the Detroit? Or maybe Detroit just beat themselves...
27) LA Clippers - This team had been hanging on against pretty good teams, the problem is they always lose.
28) Seattle Supersonics - Losers of 6 of 7, nothing could get more worst than losing your superstar by an injury.
29) Minnesota Timberwolves - They beat Miami.
30) Miami Heat - They beat no one.
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