I believe Delfino had a career high in points tonight; i.e., 23

Orlando didn't do so good tonight on 3s, shooting only 9 of 28 and losing to the Raptors who were 11-20 on 3s

NBA - Orlando Magic/Toronto Raptors Box Score Wednesday February 20, 2008 - Yahoo! Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/boxscore?gid=2008022028)

:hoops:

OMG, look at that box score from Bosh

40 points, 14-16 shooting, 1-1 from 3-point land, 11-11 from the free throw line. 5 rebounds. 5 assists. A steal and a block.

40 points and only missing 2 shots all night, including FT's??? How often does that happen?

Two teams with the best records in the NBA, Celtics and Pistons lose back to back games to open the second season. Once again the Celtics played it all the way to the end, but Baron Davis hits a fall away walkoff bucket to win the game (witn .03 on the clock) for the Warriors who played without their other top scorer Stephen Jackson.

Two teams that were the epitomy of league with the 1st and second best records and also the first and second best defense both give up over 100 points on consecutive nights and lose both games. Looks like the Celtics have finally come down to earth....They have Suns on Friday and the Blazers on Sunday and Clippers on Monday before retuning home next Wednesday to face the Cavs....

OMG, look at that box score from Bosh

40 points, 14-16 shooting, 1-1 from 3-point land, 11-11 from the free throw line. 5 rebounds. 5 assists. A steal and a block.

40 points and only missing 2 shots all night, including FT's??? How often does that happen?


If we had got that line and effort from just one of our players last night vs the magic maybe we could have eeked out a victory....

Two teams with the best records in the NBA, Celtics and Pistons lose back to back games to open the second season. Once again the Celtics played it all the way to the end, but Baron Davis hits a fall away walkoff bucket to win the game (witn .03 on the clock) for the Warriors who played without their other top scorer Stephen Jackson.

They're doing it on purpose. Celts don't want to play ORL, and we don't want to play CLE. It's alot easier to coordinate our losses rather than wins. The Pistons are doing fantastic on their part, BOS is having a little more trouble losing b/c the officials are keeping them in the game, but when it's all said and done i think it will work out. Gotta keep a 3 game distance or so, so the league doesn't get suspicious. :sssh:

They're doing it on purpose. Celts don't want to play ORL, and we don't want to play CLE. It's alot easier to coordinate our losses rather than wins. The Pistons are doing fantastic on their part, BOS is having a little more trouble losing b/c the officials are keeping them in the game, but when it's all said and done i think it will work out. Gotta keep a 3 game distance or so, so the league doesn't get suspicious. :sssh:

Losing on purpose? Nah, I don't think so.

Anybody know if the traded players will be in uniform tonight? Ben Wallace, Juan Dixon, etc?

Yao. He's good. He's very good.

Anybody know if the traded players will be in uniform tonight? Ben Wallace, Juan Dixon, etc?


Dixon in uniform and scores a 3 pointer with less than 40 seconds for Pistons. Bulls and Cavs traded players did not dress.

Cavs eek out a 1 point win with two D leagers, damon jones and superjames...

James hits two FTs with 6.9 seconds left...which is why you never go into a final minute of any game with the cavs and the point differential is less that 3 points.....Its King James time
.

BOS needs to stop losing.

and seeing Ben sitting in the box in CLE made me really irritated.

very strange night: lbj wins, playing alone, clippers buries utah, seattle kills portland, atlanta banishes GSW into hell and finally phoenix keeps healthy bos under 80...halloween?

I didn't see any of the Boston-Phoenix game last night, and I'm glad I didn't. From the recap and boxscore, it looks like it was almost unwatchable. Both teams had 20 or more turnovers, and they also had only 14 assists...yikes!

For 2 straight games now, Nash has less than 10 asst. Nash normally has more asst in a game alone during the Pre Shaq era. Don't know if it is good or bad for the Suns.

For 2 straight games now, Nash has less than 10 asst. Nash normally has more asst in a game alone during the Pre Shaq era. Don't know if it is good or bad for the Suns.

It's b/c they are scroring 20 points less. It was cool seeing the Suns play a grind-it-out game. They have given up on the free-wheel attack strategy.

It's b/c they are scroring 20 points less. It was cool seeing the Suns play a grind-it-out game. They have given up on the free-wheel attack strategy.

Man, I thought that game was great. The turnovers didn't bother me that much, because it was just so different for the Suns to play that way. The matchup between Amare and KG was intense! Lots of effort to play D by the Suns. This is one of those games where the numbers don't tell you much about the viewing value of the game. The Celtics perimeter defense looks formidable to me. I thought it was highly entertaining and exciting. I'd be happy to see a best of 7 of this matchup down the line.Of course, I would prefer our Pistons were in the Finals.

On another note, how upsetting it is to me that I will have to watch LeBron's Cavs if I want to follow Ben's continuing path through the NBA. I adore, adore, adore Big Ben no matter how he is playing or where. But the Cavs? Oh God, I am truly a LeBron hater and never watch anything he is in. This is a sad development in my Big Ben fandom for sure. I mean I can't watch LeBron with his little cute Jay-z hand signal. (By the way, Chris Rock does this little triangle hand symbol too. I mean is everyone a Jay-Z lackey?) What does that hand sign mean anyway? If anyone knows let me know. Maybe if it's not too repellant (repellant would be that it means that anyone who does it enough is destined to become a global corporate icon with the help of Jay-Z's cult) I could understand. But LeBron skipping around the court in the playoffs with his triangle hand sign...gimme a break.

Anyway that Boston/Phoenix game rocked IMO. Very physical. KG looking like a dirty player several times. Talking trash to Amare the whole game. Too much.

A very good Hornet team ran into Ginobili and the Spurs at the AT&T Center in SA, resulting in the reality - you must come through the Spurs if you want to come out of the west.

If the Spurs remain healthy, they will represent the west in the Finals.....................Period.

KG looking like a dirty player several times. Talking trash to Amare the whole game. Too much.

KG has never stop trash talking ever since he join the league. And doubt that he ever will.

New players provided dividends right away for cavs, as they blow out the Grizz by 20. Ben gets a double-double , Joe Smith scores 14, Wally Z scores 10, Delonte West shot poorly, but handded out 6 dimes

I mean I can't watch LeBron with his little cute Jay-z hand signal. (By the way, Chris Rock does this little triangle hand symbol too. I mean is everyone a Jay-Z lackey?) What does that hand sign mean anyway? If anyone knows let me know. Maybe if it's not too repellant (repellant would be that it means that anyone who does it enough is destined to become a global corporate icon with the help of Jay-Z's cult) I could understand. But LeBron skipping around the court in the playoffs with his triangle hand sign...gimme a break.

It's the Roc-A-Fella symbol used to represent "The Dynasty". Jay created the sign on his release of his Dynasty CD, and now it's the world-wide hand sign to show allegiance to the R-O-C and Jigga.

New players provided dividends right away for cavs, as they blow out the Grizz by 20. Ben gets a double-double , Joe Smith scores 14, Wally Z scores 10, Delonte West shot poorly, but handded out 6 dimes

Did anybody watch this game? If so, how did Ben look?

I tried to, saw him in a Cavs jersey, slapping hand w/ Lebron, felt like i was going to throw up, and promptly changed the channel. :)

Did anybody watch this game? If so, how did Ben look?

I tried to, saw him in a Cavs jersey, slapping hand w/ Lebron, felt like i was going to throw up, and promptly changed the channel. :)


I only saw the last 4 minutes and saw Ben grab his last board before heading to the bench with a standing ovation from the Cav crowd with Fred Mcleod selling it:)

I only saw the last 4 minutes and saw Ben grab his last board before heading to the bench with a standing ovation from the Cav crowd with Fred Mcleod selling it:)

Isn't that just special :rolleyes1:

Ben being on CLE is really going to test any love i had left for him. It's just wrong on so many levels.

Played 33 minutes with 5-6 shooting for 12 points and 10 rebounds. He left game to a standing "O".........I'd say Ben is no longer a Piston. Let em hang his jersey from the rafters in Cleveland........Next to Bron Bron

Isn't that just special :rolleyes1:

Ben being on CLE is really going to test any love i had left for him. It's just wrong on so many levels.

Oh, it was worse for me seeing him in CHI uniform, but CLE isn't much better. CHI and DET have always had that natural, regional rivalry.

But it's pretty funny now on CHI and its fans that the whole Ben thing didn't work out. Guess they're glad to be rid of that contract. Now they get Larry Hughes' contract.

Orlando Magic GM might not be such a dumb guy after all -- OrlandoSentinel.com (http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orl-whitley2508feb25,0,2259255.column)

i thought it was interesting regarding armchair gm's.

fans couldn't second-guess moves, what's the use in being a fan? But with Internet immediacy, message boards, fantasy leagues and a lot of idle time, playing general manger has become a cottage industry in the U.S.

Everyone is an expert except the experts themselves, who are usually considered morons until they're proven right. Even if general managers like Smith are proven wrong, nobody wants to wait to find out.

Pretty funny line from that article about YKW:

Smith let [Darko] leave for Memphis, where Milicic has been so inept the Knicks are considering trading for him.

Darko must be on crack. I don't understand how he can actually be digressing at this stage.

Played 33 minutes with 5-6 shooting for 12 points and 10 rebounds. He left game to a standing "O".........I'd say Ben is no longer a Piston. Let em hang his jersey from the rafters in Cleveland........Next to Bron Bron

I didn't verify it, but either Fred McLeod or ESPN, said that Ben's 12 points was his highest offensive production since he wore a Piston uniform...

I don't how it will playout in the end, but they definitely look better..even it was vs darko's d-leaguers:) Let see how they play vs the Celtics on Wednesday.

Darko must be on crack. I don't understand how he can actually be digressing at this stage.

I assume you mean "regressing." If he was "digressing," he'd be doing something besides trying to play basketball professionally, like checking out of games to play online poker with Arenas.

I assume you mean "regressing." If he was "digressing," he'd be doing something besides trying to play basketball professionally, like checking out of games to play online poker with Arenas.

I'm not sure what I meant. But both fit. He needs to see a sports psychologist ASAP.

The lack of scoring is understandable. But after seeing several games where he seemed to dominate the boards and block shots, I'm amazed at these 2 rebound performances he's having.

With the emergence of Amir, I think I'm finally over it. Nazr just wasn't doing it for me.

I'm not sure what I meant. But both fit. He needs to see a sports psychologist ASAP.

The lack of scoring is understandable. But after seeing several games where he seemed to dominate the boards and block shots, I'm amazed at these 2 rebound performances he's having.

With the emergence of Amir, I think I'm finally over it. Nazr just wasn't doing it for me.

And for Darko team got stuckey and w/o stuckey Flip could have to play Hunter or flip sr and that's scary...

And for Darko team got stuckey and w/o stuckey Flip could have to play Hunter or flip sr and that's scary...

Yeah. I see the light.

I didn't verify it, but either Fred McLeod or ESPN, said that Ben's 12 points was his highest offensive production since he wore a Piston uniform...

I don't how it will playout in the end, but they definitely look better..even it was vs darko's d-leaguers:) Let see how they play vs the Celtics on Wednesday.

He's definately talking out of his you know what, per usual. Ben had a few high scoring games in CHI IIRC.

Sign Up (http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-dwyre26feb26,1,5056565.column?ctrack=1&cset=true) Lakers-Celtics still has a nice ring to it

Let the conspiracy begin...this article from today's La Times.. mentions the Celtics and a few teams in the west, but does not mention of any other teams in the east??? NBA office in NY secretly getting excited about a Boston-LA rebirth



Also not reported here, bu the LA Times is reporting that the Clippers may buy out the contract of Sam Cassell which would make him eligible/available to sign with the Celtics, Suns or whomever....he has not played in the last two Clipper games

-

Great ending to the Cavs/Bucks game tonight.

Summary:

Redd missed a free throw that would have put the Bucks up by 3.

With 10 secs left, Lebron got the ball, drove 1 on 5 and somehow got it to go down. Tied the game with 5 seconds left.

Milwaukee inbounds and Redd gets the ball well outside the 3-point line with a man in his face and he still buried the game winner.


Cavs played pretty well considering they are still missing half their team.

I didn't verify it, but either Fred McLeod or ESPN, said that Ben's 12 points was his highest offensive production since he wore a Piston uniform...

I don't how it will playout in the end, but they definitely look better..even it was vs darko's d-leaguers:) Let see how they play vs the Celtics on Wednesday.
He's wrong. Ben surpassed 12 pts 4 times last season scoring 19 pts twice.

Cavs played pretty well considering they are still missing half their team.

Huh? They had everyone from the trade in uniform last night, didn't they?

Huh? They had everyone from the trade in uniform last night, didn't they?

They were only missing Z, Gibson, and Pavlovich (who i forgot existed for awhile)

Varajeo also came back this game.

So they had most of their team, but Ben i think will only look good next to Z.

You guys are minimizing the impact of Z (maybe because Sheed owns him). They were missing 33 points, 15 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks per game without those guys.

They are going to be very good when they get back to full strength.


Lebron is out there playing pick-up basketball with the new guys and still winning... except for Redd's game ending bomb.

He's wrong. Ben surpassed 12 pts 4 times last season scoring 19 pts twice.


You know how Fred tries to sell the idea that the Cavs are an elite team and he wanted to Cav faithful to think that Ben was regenerated in Cleveland.

In yesterdays game, Ben reverted closer to his seasons average of 5.3 ppg with 7 pts and 11 boards. Since Labron James is on my fantasy team, I hope Ben doesn't shave off 4 or 5 of King Jamess rebounds and prevent his from feeding me those triple doubles:)

You know how Fred tries to sell the idea that the Cavs are an elite team and he wanted to Cav faithful to think that Ben was regenerated in Cleveland.

In yesterdays game, Ben reverted closer to his seasons average of 5.3 ppg with 7 pts and 11 boards. Since Labron James is on my fantasy team, I hope Ben doesn't shave off 4 or 5 of King Jamess rebounds and prevent his from feeding me those triple doubles:)

Ben had the worst plus minus for Cleveland last night at -14, no other player for cleveland was worse then -4 another of there new world savers... Ben when he's on he's a game changer but those games sadly (well now i guess its not so sad for us) are farther and farther between. Either his last year or year before that he had to have his wife inspire him... he was finding it harder and harder to bring it every night and he's still being played to many mins a game, If teams were smart and played him a solid 20-25 mins a game tops he might be able to have the energy to be the game changer of 2001-2004.

Dirk Nowitzki has 21 free throws tonight?

C'mon.

So the Suns are now 2-4 with Shaq in the lineup, after a terrible loss at home to the Sixers last night. Not exactly the equivalent of losing to the Lakers or the Pistons.

I still don't think the Suns are going to miss the playoffs, as per some of the more panicky commentary. But it does seem clear that their chances of making it out of the first round are looking very grim. After that, welcome to TWO more seasons of Shaq at $20 million per year! :doh:

So the Suns are now 2-4 with Shaq in the lineup, after a terrible loss at home to the Sixers last night. Not exactly the equivalent of losing to the Lakers or the Pistons.

I still don't think the Suns are going to miss the playoffs, as per some of the more panicky commentary. But it does seem clear that their chances of making it out of the first round are looking very grim. After that, welcome to TWO more seasons of Shaq at $20 million per year! :doh:

Steve Kerr ought to be fired, after what, one year at his job he has perhaps the biggest bonehead move ever!

It really wouldn't be that tough for them to get bumped from the playoff race. The West is really really tight.

True, but I don't think their current slump is likely to last for the rest of the season. But I am in agreement with anyone who says that they didn't help themselves by making the deal, which I think is in line with how most of us here reacted to the trade.

They really really underestimated Marion's defensive impact on that team. They keep getting lit up for 30+ by a player every game, and overall their defense is predicated often on switching which is useless now that they don't have Marion.

I don't get the Suns. They were a keeping Kurt Thomas, getting 3 point shooters away from another contender year, and they instead do ??

On Dlev's point about Kerr, the reporting indicated that D'Antoni was definitely in favor of getting Shaq when Kerr first told him it might be possible, so I think the whole organization is on the hook for the deal, not just any one particular person among them.

Like I said when the deal went down, I guess I can understand moving Marion, if he was indeed unhappy playing there and set to walk for nothing after this season when his deal expires. Similarly, even those of us who think Joe and Bill D were justified in not re-signing Ben for what he wanted would surely have preferred a trade to get at least something in return. But trading Marion for Shaq, with his terrible contract, just wasn't the right way for Phoenix to deal with their situation.

Wait a minute, did I just make a direct comparison between Shaq and Nazr?! :heh: :pound:

Celtics Signed Sam Cassel? how do you think he will perform at 38 years of age

Milicic followed up his 21 point game last night with a 16/11/2 game tonight. Still hard to tell if he's ever going to lay off those 2 point, 3 rebound suck-fests.

Also, Shaq and the setting Suns dropping another one. At least the big mistake played well with 12 and 18.

In other news:
I don't know much about fantasy bball, but I would think that Lebron's 50 points, 8 rebounds, 10 assists, and 4 steals would be pretty good (that's 94 Darko-points!).

Also, Shaq and the setting Suns dropping another one. At least the big mistake played well with 12 and 18.

In other news:
I don't know much about fantasy bball, but I would think that Lebron's 50 points, 8 rebounds, 10 assists, and 4 steals would be pretty good (that's 94 Darko-points!).

And that is why I rejected trade offers this season to part with him from my fantasy team. He is 31.6 -8.9- 7.4 since the beginning of 2008....Dem MVP #s ...at least in the fantasy league. ...:heh:

Well i heard McCosky's frustrated radio piece on the DFAN today and he said the Pistons were the 3rd best team in the east based on they have been playing lately??? I felt his pain as he expressed the same concerns that I read in this forum everyday.

He must be lurking here ...One lost the Celtics and we drop back to 3rd?? The Pistons have won 14 of 18 and he says they are not playing well???

The Cavs lost to the Bulls tonight by 11, but at one point in the opening minutes of the 4th they were down by 20. Labron had 39 points at the midpoint of the 3rd, but only 3 assists as no one he passed to could convert a bucket until the game was already decided in the late 3rd period. Since one game makes a difference in McCosky's world, I have to assume that based on the Cavs loss to the Bulls tonight, we have moved back to the second best team in the East....... then again, have we beaten the Bulls ourselves this season??:sssh:

Flip Murray with his second game in a row in double digits. Looking very Stucky-like with his 2 steals and 33% shooting.

Well i heard McCosky's frustrated radio piece on the DFAN today and he said the Pistons were the 3rd best team in the east based on they have been playing lately??? I felt his pain as he expressed the same concerns that I read in this forum everyday.

He must be lurking here ...One lost the Celtics and we drop back to 3rd?? The Pistons have won 14 of 18 and he says they are not playing well???

The Cavs lost to the Bulls tonight by 11, but at one point in the opening minutes of the 4th they were down by 20. Labron had 39 points at the midpoint of the 3rd, but only 3 assists as no one he passed to could convert a bucket until the game was already decided in the late 3rd period. Since one game makes a difference in McCosky's world, I have to assume that based on the Cavs loss to the Bulls tonight, we have moved back to the second best team in the East....... then again, have we beaten the Bulls ourselves this season??:sssh:

Could you elaborate a little on what he said? I didn't hear it, but it's suprising if it's some of the same concerns as forum memebers, because 99.9 % of his articles are either chastizing fans for wanting a defensive player to play more, or Flip apologist.

If he thinks differently, then he needs to start reporting differently.

Could you elaborate a little on what he said? I didn't hear it, but it's suprising if it's some of the same concerns as forum memebers, because 99.9 % of his articles are either chastizing fans for wanting a defensive player to play more, or Flip apologist.

If he thinks differently, then he needs to start reporting differently.

Ok let me remember:sssh:

"The Pistons aren't playing as well the Celtics or Cavs and the third best team in the east"

"The players were complacent, they to many jumpshots and don't play as a team when they should...they let the refs affect their game"

"He feels like they will be knocked out in the EC finals or second round if they don't play smart and continue"

The end of the Jazz-Suns game in Phoenix last night was really exciting. Both teams traded big-time buckets for a long stretch until the Jazz pulled ahead to win 126-118. Obviously no one was playing anything resembling lockdown D, but Phoenix missed a few key shots and couldn't get any stops at all.

So Phoenix is now 3-6 with Shaq in the lineup. In those 9 games, aside from an 85-77 win over Boston and a 97-92 win in Portland, the Suns have given up at least 113(!!) points every single time out. Maybe he's turned into The Big Matador?

Ok let me remember:sssh:

"The Pistons aren't playing as well the Celtics or Cavs and the third best team in the east"

"The players were complacent, they to many jumpshots and don't play as a team when they should...they let the refs affect their game"

"He feels like they will be knocked out in the EC finals or second round if they don't play smart and continue"

I hate the way everybody falls back on the team is "complacent" excuse. Yes they are at times, but in the BOS game they tried really hard. It's the coach's job to a/make them stop taking jumpshots, b/get them to play as a team c/get on the refs so the players don't.

McCosky still sucks.

Also, did anyone see the DEN/SAS game? Pop benched the big three w/ 5 min to go down 15, and they all looked like little boys that just got punished. Their faces were hilarious.

I hate the way everybody falls back on the team is "complacent" excuse. Yes they are at times, but in the BOS game they tried really hard. It's the coach's job to a/make them stop taking jumpshots, b/get them to play as a team c/get on the refs so the players don't.

McCosky still sucks.

Also, did anyone see the DEN/SAS game? Pop benched the big three w/ 5 min to go down 15, and they all looked like little boys that just got punished. Their faces were hilarious.

How can coach do that? And Why? Their only penetrator is stuckey and he has a long way to go, Sheed is only half post player (dice isn't even that regardless of what 356 says). They take jumpshots because it is their "comfortable spot" not because flip tells them to do so.You have to live with that.

They take jumpshots because it is their "comfortable spot" not because flip tells them to do so.You have to live with that.
Absolutely. I've seen people get so worked up over jumpshots or points in the paint.

These are kinda the two paradigms

1) what the team really is
2) what people expect them to be

I know this isn't the best team in the league, but I'll hope nonetheless that they catch a roll in the playoffs and go all of the way. It's happened before.

How can coach do that? And Why? Their only penetrator is stuckey and he has a long way to go, Sheed is only half post player (dice isn't even that regardless of what 356 says). They take jumpshots because it is their "comfortable spot" not because flip tells them to do so.You have to live with that.

He can say attack the basket, and if they don't listen he can say it again, and again, etc.

This same group attacked the basket, and got easy scores way more under LB. If it's what their comfortable with, it's Flip's job to break the habit. Also my problem with the offense goes way beyond that (ISO's ball movement) lack of penetration.

Kinda OT to the thread though so i'll stop talking about it.

He can say attack the basket, and if they don't listen he can say it again, and again, etc.

This same group attacked the basket, and got easy scores way more under LB. If it's what their comfortable with, it's Flip's job to break the habit. Also my problem with the offense goes way beyond that (ISO's ball movement) lack of penetration.

Kinda OT to the thread though so i'll stop talking about it.

Actually, scoring droughts with LB were very common, ussually good D saved their ass. (And this good D gave to Stern a reason to ban handchecking.), OT but couldn't resist to answer. :sssh:

Two teams at the top of the topsy turvy West both lose today. Suns rejuvenate themselves and keep Kerr and the big Cactus off the hotseat for at least one more day by defeating the Spurs on a nice 14-2 run to close out with the win. 36 year OLD Shaq had possibly his best game with 14 pts and 16 boards with Muhammad Ali and Republican presidential nominee John McClain and his trophy wife in attendance cheering them on. Hometown resident Charles Barkley was probably in da house too.. two losses in a row for the defending chumps!

Lakers Sunday night crowd went home disappointed as the ever confident Lakers had no defensive answer in the 4th qtr for the upstart Kings, who didn't even have Artest in the lineup the last 7 minutes. On the other end the Lakers weren't able to give the ball to Kobie either in crunch time, but he did take the final shot that clanged off the rim. Gasol is good scoring in the paint, but Mikki Moore and rookie Spencer Hawes just punished him in the paint on the defensive in and Beno Udrih was the spark leading the Kings with 25 pts and 10 assists. the Kings shot 55% from the floor and were the first team this season to shoot over 50% vs the lakers at Staples.

Kobe now has 13 techs and if he is getting close to the magic # 16 of sitting out a game. This will not bode well down the stretch when every game is a must for all of top nine teams in the west.

D-Wade is out (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3286076) for the rest of the season to get treatment on his still ailing left knee. The Pistons have two more games left against the now even more hapless Heat.

D-Wade is out (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3286076) for the rest of the season to get treatment on his still ailing left knee. The Pistons have two more games left against the now even more hapless Heat.


Riley priming his team to assure that they have best percentage of balls to get the # 1 pick in the draft. Poor Shawn Marion, the only fun he will have the rest of the season is hanging out on South Beach since I believe he is single.

I am not sure about his contract, but does he stick around for next season to play with a healthy wade and #1 pick or does he test free agency if he is indeed a FA?

Poor Shawn Marion, the only fun he will have the rest of the season is hanging out on South Beach since I believe he is single.
What's that? Shawn's finally got his chance to show the world what a grade-A superstar he is!

He is the #1 option. He has a team to support him. And he will be taking them to the playoffs.

:rolleyes:

Also, did anyone see the DEN/SAS game? Pop benched the big three w/ 5 min to go down 15, and they all looked like little boys that just got punished. Their faces were hilarious.

Oh I'm so glad you mentioned this lpgrl. I recorded that game but haven't had time to watch it yet, and then watched DEN lose to them tonight. I only watched the 4th quarter tonight and it was way more than I could stomach. I don't care how good the Spurs are, I still detest them. LOL. I make it a point to never watch any of their games because I get so upset when they win against anybody.

I'm really only following our beloved Pistons and my one "affair" team Denver this year. So I knew I'd have to watch a few Spurs games, but I usually record them and then ONLY watch the game later if the Spurs lose.

I love when the big three are sitting on the bench looking miserable and despairing. I had no idea how much ill will I was capable of until the Pistons/Spurs
rivalry hit me the year after the Championship.

P.S. Yeah, I know all about the defensive similiarities in our teams, half-court, older starting players, etc. That doesn't matter to me. I want Duncan to have the "deer in the headlights look", Ginobili to look very serious and long-suffering and TP to look lost. That's as good as it gets for me with the Spurs. LOL.

Oh I'm so glad you mentioned this lpgrl. I recorded that game but haven't had time to watch it yet, and then watched DEN lose to them tonight. I only watched the 4th quarter tonight and it was way more than I could stomach. I don't care how good the Spurs are, I still detest them. LOL. I make it a point to never watch any of their games because I get so upset when they win against anybody.

I'm really only following our beloved Pistons and my one "affair" team Denver this year. So I knew I'd have to watch a few Spurs games, but I usually record them and then ONLY watch the game later if the Spurs lose.

I love when the big three are sitting on the bench looking miserable and despairing. I had no idea how much ill will I was capable of until the Pistons/Spurs
rivalry hit me the year after the Championship.

P.S. Yeah, I know all about the defensive similiarities in our teams, half-court, older starting players, etc. That doesn't matter to me. I want Duncan to have the "deer in the headlights look", Ginobili to look very serious and long-suffering and TP to look lost. That's as good as it gets for me with the Spurs. LOL.

I know how you feel LOL. I still get a kick out of watching them lose. I don't hate them (or at least i think i don't), but there must be some repressed anger or something. I think they're dirty, and TP and TD just bother me. I even dislike Bonner.

I can't really bring myself to dislike Ginnobli b/c half the time he looks like he has no idea what's going on, and besides the flopping i think he's extremely talented.

I really want to see them if we make the finals. I feel like we could beat them. The Pistons revert back to the LB Pistons when we play them. And Sheed goes off. It's refreshing.

On a side note; Bulls kicking UTAH's behind. They got Thabo back. He's like their Afflalo. All he's gotta do is play 5+ min and they win.

Don't know if anyone caught this but I kinda thought it was funny; Our boy Smush Parker finally got bought out by Miami yesterday. ...Just in time to be ineligible for the playoffs.

Kind of a jackass move by Riley but I like it!

Don't know if anyone caught this but I kinda thought it was funny; Our boy Smush Parker finally got bought out by Miami yesterday. ...Just in time to be ineligible for the playoffs.

Kind of a jackass move by Riley but I like it!

Have to think that agents and players notice that sort of thing and will go into the thought process when deciding whether to sign a contract with such a jerk (may have been a good coach one time, but wouldn't want him near my team anymore), compared to how Joe treats players I'll pick Joe 10/10 times as my GM.

Have to think that agents and players notice that sort of thing and will go into the thought process when deciding whether to sign a contract with such a jerk (may have been a good coach one time, but wouldn't want him near my team anymore), compared to how Joe treats players I'll pick Joe 10/10 times as my GM.

That thought occurred to me as well round. ...which is one of the reasons that I like it (screw Riley/Miami).
...Another reason that I like it is that while Parker certainly isn't top tear talent, he probably could have helped Cleveland or another playoff bound team looking for a serviceable back-up PG.
...And yet another reason that I like it is the fact that Smush has been a bit of a jerk the last couple of years. I tend to root against jerks.

Parker is pretty bad. But then, even Juan Dixon found a team. :)

Parker is pretty bad. But then, even Juan Dixon found a team. :)

The Clippers sign 'Smush" today. No he won't play in any playoff games, but he gets a free ride back to the LA (Clippers played in Orlando and Miami their last two games) and he gets to hang out with all the beautiful people at the Staples Center again...

So don't feel sorry for him. He hung out at South Beach for awhile and now will hang out at Vence beach for the rest of the spring. Talking bout getting paid for nothing....

Its good night in the NBA when the Lakers and Celtics lose on the same night and then add to that, the defending champ Spurs fall too. Lakers money in the bank guy Pau Gasol went down in the first qtr and won't be available on Sunday to stop the Rockets win streak. The Hornets moved to a half game of the lakers and Rockets for the top spot in the west with the 10 point win over the Lakers.

The Celtics 10 game streak was halted by the Jazz on their home court as Ray Allen slipped on the court in the first qrt did not return, but it was the Celtics defense that did not return to the floor in the 4th qtr and gave up 31 pts after holding the Jazz to only 17 in the third.

The Sixers continued to impress coming back from an 18 pt deficit and putting up 40 big ones on the Bullls in the 4th and won by 4.

How the hell did the Denver Nuggets score 168 pts in regulation. Did Seattle play thinking it was an All Star Game (no D)?

Marcus Camby has a triple double in 26 minutes of action.

Denver shot 60% in the game.

16 3's.

8 players in double figures.

44 assts.

Like what CB would say, 'It's crazy, MAN'.

NBA.com: Supersonics at Nuggets Game Info (http://www.nba.com/games/20080316/SEADEN/boxscore.html)

The Sonics looked like they were in shock. I feel bad for them. All that losing has got to be taking a toll, and now this.

I wonder how much they'll put up against us. Hopefully, they wasted it all.

Seattle squeezed off 6 more shots and had 32 free throws (only 3 less than Denver) and they lose by 52 points? That is weird.

74 points off the bench for Denver!

This hurts Seattle's defensive points allowed per game stat by almost a point per game.

This hurts Seattle's defensive points allowed per game stat by almost a point per game.
:rofl: :D

Alex English, eat your heart out!

Seattle squeezed off 6 more shots and had 32 free throws (only 3 less than Denver) and they lose by 52 points? That is weird.

74 points off the bench for Denver!

This hurts Seattle's defensive points allowed per game stat by almost a point per game.

You know all this regular season stats do not matter in postseason...

wait...they do not play in the postseason? Then this stats is even more meaningless!

Maybe it belongs to 'meaningless stats-or-something like' thread? (there was one)

Hey, HOW 'BOUT DEM CHICAGO CELTICS!!! If that isn't the weirdest look for the Bulls uniforms!

Hey, HOW 'BOUT DEM CHICAGO CELTICS!!! If that isn't the weirdest look for the Bulls uniforms!

Yeah they wore them last year too. Maybe I'm missing something but is St. Patrick's Day really a big enough deal that you design special uni's for it? I thought St. Patricks Day was just about getting drunk and not remembering what you did the next morning? :sssh:No? Apparently not. Those unis are really really wierd though.

Yeah they wore them last year too. Maybe I'm missing something but is St. Patrick's Day really a big enough deal that you design special uni's for it? I thought St. Patricks Day was just about getting drunk and not remembering what you did the next morning? :sssh:No? Apparently not. Those unis are really really wierd though.

St. Pat's is a pretty big deal in Chicago. They even dye the Chicago River green!

http://chicagopictures.net/images/Chicago_rivergreen_D002.jpg

That's true. Lot's of Irish on the South Side.

Looks like it's true colors came out----toxic waste.

So BOS came back from 20 something down and has taken the lead (last time i checked) against the Spurs and i don't think Ray Allen is playing.

Scary.

So BOS came back from 20 something down and has taken the lead (last time i checked) against the Spurs and i don't think Ray Allen is playing.

Scary.

Looks like old man Cassell may be a good pickup for the Celtics. 17 points and 5 rebounds off the bench, filling in nicely for an injured Ray Allen.

Looks like old man Cassell may be a good pickup for the Celtics. 17 points and 5 rebounds off the bench, filling in nicely for an injured Ray Allen.

Yup, he's still got it. Hit a huge three that was essentially the game winner.

Pleas to not tell again that this was meaningless game for spurs( as it was used as an excuse why pistons won): add some "meaningless" losses to spurs and they are out of PO-s.

Anybody notice how Chris Paul's ankle was suddenly a non issue today? And we thought Kander was good.

Equal press coverage here. Delfino went 0-3 with 1 rebound and 4 fouls in 17 minutes.

Other former Pistons news:
Darko with a weak double double.
Nazr with an average night off the bench.
Flip Murray with a nice night at the starting PG spot. 14 points, 4 assists, and +14.
Big Ben not having his best night. 2 points, 4 rebounds, 3 fouls while getting torched by Orlando's bigs (72 points by the starting SF, PF, and C for the Magic).
Mo Evans = 10 points. Not much else.

I'm not going to include Joe Smith here. Gotta draw the line somewhere.

Anybody think that we are not giving Orlando any credit??

After trailing the Cavs by 5 at halftime, the Magic blew by them in the second half outscoring them by 19 and took down the Cavs tonight 104-90.

The magic have won 5 in a row and 8 of 10. In other words they are keeping up with the top 2 in the east stretching their conference lead over the Cavs by 6.5 games. (thank you), and only 4.5 behind us.

All this about the west and the Rockets, but no one has mentioned that the top 3 teams in the East have won a combined 24 of their last 30 games.

Pleas to not tell again that this was meaningless game for spurs( as it was used as an excuse why pistons won): add some "meaningless" losses to spurs and they are out of PO-s.

Four straight losses for the Spurs and they were healthy tonight. They could be a tought first round match up and could be seventh seed favored to win in the first round. :sssh:

the question is: how much gas he has in the tank. C Web had a good
influence on last year's Piston's team. but he could not finish.

Yup, he's still got it. Hit a huge three that was essentially the game winner.

didn't watch the boston game live but was following it online and seemed that cassell was taking most the shots down the stretch.... one game ok.... but notice how many assists he had (if i recall right he had none), i just think when allen comes back there's going to be some chemistry issues..

Just to many ballers and not enough balls. Cassell's comments about just being a role player to get the ball to the big 3 sure didn't last long. LOL

Be interesting to see how it goes.... and it doesn't matter as a win anyways because you know SA doesn't try to win games in the regular season.... or does it matter when its not against detroit?

Still much will be made of the Celtics tonight if they blow out the streaking Rockets. I am sure a nationwide poll would love the Rockets to win this one.

Still much will be made of the Celtics tonight if they blow out the streaking Rockets. I am sure a nationwide poll would love the Rockets to win this one.

I'm really torn on how i want this one to go.... part of me wants boston to keep getting hyped more and more... but on the other hand i want to see them spanked at every chance...... lol

The best case scenario is some sort of brawl where the game doesn't officially get completed and Stern spends the rest of the year punishing them with suspensions and ridiculous calls.

Still much will be made of the Celtics tonight if they blow out the streaking Rockets. I am sure a nationwide poll would love the Rockets to win this one.

I say the Rockets will blow the Celtics out for win # 23..........you heard it here first!!!!!!!

I say the Rockets will blow the Celtics out for win # 23..........you heard it here first!!!!!!!

Well I'm glad that you didn't predict a Pistons blowout or we would have lost one tonight:)

The Celtic defense was just to much for the rockets..The C's are for real even with out Ray Allen. They wouldn't allow Tmaac to shoot and (11 shots) and the Rockets made Leon Powe a star tonight. To make sure there was no comeback, Doc leaves KG in there until less than a minute and a half left in the game even though they were up by 20+ and Tmac and Battier sat at the 5 min mark.??? Just his luck that a scrub didn't take him out.....

Tell me which TNT commentator was more in love with the Celtics, Kevin Harlan or Doug Collins? At one point I expected Tommy Heinson to come on and sing more praises/ Did we get this much praise when we had the best record in 2005-2006?

How bout the Heat, finally won a game on the road over the sad sack Bucs

Mavs still have not beaten an above .500 team since da kidd showed up as they lose to the Gasoless Lakers at home....

I say the Rockets will blow the Celtics out for win # 23..........you heard it here first!!!!!!!

not that i really cared who won the game.... but i sure think the celtics are playing at such a high level are they going to be able to take it higher in the playoffs....

i mean come on... did you see garnett going in for the dunk with 2 mins left up by over 20 and acting like he just scored the winning bucket in game 7.... (show some class guys and sit the guys.... houston had already pulled there one starter)

karma will come due.... maybe not the pistons but somebody is going to bring them down.... HARD

I'm going over hill and dale (actually driving, riding a ferry, and more driving) to see the Phoenix Suns play the Sonics tonight. I just couldn't chance it that I might not have another opportunity to see some of these teams live when the Sonics leave. Linwood, we'll have to be carpooling to Portland to see our Pistons maybe as soon as next season. It's very sad. And inconvenient too.

Anyway I'm really psyched to see Steve Nash play live and I though I would share it with you guys. I don't have much orange or purple clothing but Bill Simmons says that if you start wearing fan colors and merchandise of another team, you are committing fan bigamy. So I'll just be a casual internet fan tonight I guess.Except when I stand up and yell "Stevie!" every time he does anything that borders on the heroic. I like when he starts hitting those threes when the team is in trouble. Just like clockwork.

Once again the Mavs fail to beat a team with a winning record and pretty much sealed their fate as a first round casualty again IMO . This time however they will be a 6 or 7 seed. The Celtics do what no other team has done since the Kings did it 2001 and that is do the Texas three step with wins over the Spurs, Rockets and Mavs. Believe it or not those Celtics are pretty good:)

The Lakers have taken two straight victories over the Mavs and jazz and now are 2-2 since Gasol went down. They ended the Jazz 19 game home winning streak by streaking to a 24 point lead before half of the Jazz fans had taken their first sip of beer.

It was said that David Stern was estatic that his two favorite teams are both at the top of their respective conferences and headed for a certain date with ratings destiny in mid June. If the Lakers can win with both their 7 footers sidelined, what will they be like when both are in the lineup??

Sterns final four dream matchups would be Celtics beating Cavs in ECF and Lakers beating Suns in WCF. Although the Cavs and Suns may not get there due to seeding matchups, the refs and NBA media folks will there best to assure that the Laker/Celtic rematch of 1987 is rejuvenated

It was said that David Stern was estatic that his two favorite teams are both at the top of their respective conferences and headed for a certain date with ratings destiny in mid June...

...Sterns final four dream matchups would be Celtics beating Cavs in ECF and Lakers beating Suns in WCF. Although the Cavs and Suns may not get there due to seeding matchups, the refs and NBA media folks will there best to assure that the Laker/Celtic rematch of 1987 is rejuvenated

Geez, that is a depressing scenario. Now it seems like they are both very good basketball teams and I shouldn't begrudge them their success. But both of those teams have won enough Championships, I don't care how long ago it was. I'm still planning on it being us in the ECF and maybe even the Finals. But if it can't be us, I like to spread the wealth and avoid this whole dynasty thing, even if its from 20 years or even ten years ago. Lakers? HELL NO! Celtics...maybe, but only for Garnett to get his ring.

If it ends up those two I won't watch a single game of it. I didn't watch a single game of LeBrons and Dastardy Spurs either. I really hold a grudge. LOL.

GO PISTONS!!!!

The Cavs fall to MIL. Ben Wallace didn't play; don't know why.

Maybe he will only play against us from now on. :gun1:

NOH runs away from BOS. That's 2 (or is 3) 15+ point leads lost by the celts. 2-1 in those games.

The Cavs fall to MIL. Ben Wallace didn't play; don't know why.

Maybe he will only play against us from now on. :gun1:

NOH runs away from BOS. That's 2 (or is 3) 15+ point leads lost by the celts. 2-1 in those games.
Ben sat out yesterdays game too vs the Raptors, but the Cavs won that one at home.. The reason he sat out yesterday was due to back spasms, so probably the same tonight too.

Certain players just like to play vs some teams no matter what the pain is.
Chris Kaman missed five straight games before the playing the Pistons on 3/1 and has not played a game since.... I think Ray Allen missed a couple of games prior to the first Piston meeting, but was right there for tip off.

The Hornets were able to slow down the Celtics 113-106 after Boston had taken down the Texas Threesome earlier in the week. Chris Paul must have had Ray Allen over to his place the night before and fed him some of his crazy juice as Allen was the only starter who shot below 60% and he had two TO's in crunch time as well as missed 3 three pointers down the stretch.

As far as the Celtics go, if you can score above 95 on them, you can probably beat the. In 8 of their 14 losses they have given up over 100 points and in two others they gave up 95 and 96. The Pistons have only averaged 83.3 vs the C's in their three meetings this season and managed to beat them once., but will need to score more in the playoffs IMO to beat this defensive bunch in a series. Any low scoring affair is going to favor the C's ....(per Stern Directive):stirthepot:

To be fair to the Celts, they did play great 'D' in that 3 games at Texas, especially in the 4th quarter. And that's how you win playoff basketball.

Down goes Dirk. That didn't look good.

high ankle sprain maybe? Lucky his knee didn't tear.

That looks like an injury that will be with him into the playoffs.

Down goes Dirk. That didn't look good.

high ankle sprain maybe? Lucky his knee didn't tear.

That looks like an injury that will be with him into the playoffs.


Dallas will be first round casualty whether Dirk is able to recover or not. They have not beaten a winning team since Kidd showed up. Looks like they gave away to much??

Lakers fall behind by 26 to the Warriors at the start of the 3rd qtr and came all the way back to briefly take the lead with less than 6 minutes in the game. But alas they ran of gas, despite Kobe's 36 pts and 14 brds and Odom's 19 pts and 22 boards. Steven Jackson hit 6 three pointers including 2 in the last 45 seconds to secure the victory.

Both teams scored 44 points in the paint, and both teams hoisted an average of 26 three pointers. The Lakers grabbed 60 rebounds and lost probably due to their 18 TO's.

The Laker radio announcers as well as the call in fans were very critical of the loss... I felt I was listening to a live version of the Pistons forum after one our losses...:)

The Laker radio announcers as well as the call in fans were very critical of the loss... I felt I was listening to a live version of the Pistons forum after one our losses...:)
Ouch. :P lol

maybe this is proof that sometimes fans can get a little too attached / excited about a player just because they are on their home team:

:.. ReSignPrimoz(dot)com ..: (http://www.resignprimoz.com/index.html)

Primoz anecdotes are pretty good.

I was on the Wiz board just randomly trying to see if there was any update on when Arena's would be back and they have a thread called

"The Amazingly Sucky Juan Dixon Thread", and it like over 100 pages LOL. I don't even recall him playing for them, but then again i only watched him play in TOR.

Dixon is from Baltimore, and he's the all-time leading scorer at the U. of Maryland, plus he led them to the NCAA title in '02. He was drafted by the Wizards in the first round, basically as a "favorite son," but he kinda sucked for them in the few years he played there. Dixon to the Wizards was more or less like Mateen Cleaves was to the Pistons--a local guy his whole life, a big star in college in the same area, led his team to the NCAA title--except Dixon sucked less in the NBA (Mateen couldn't even stay in the league).

Dixon is from Baltimore, and he's the all-time leading scorer at the U. of Maryland, plus he led them to the NCAA title in '02. He was drafted by the Wizards in the first round, basically as a "favorite son," but he kinda sucked for them in the few years he played there. Dixon to the Wizards was more or less like Mateen Cleaves was to the Pistons--a local guy his whole life, a big star in college in the same area, led his team to the NCAA title--except Dixon sucked less in the NBA (Mateen couldn't even stay in the league).


Great analogy there:good:

Thanks, Dre. I thought that analogy might help explain why Wizards fans would be inclined to spend so much time and effort discussing someone who hasn't been a significant player in the league.

Anyone who showed up here without knowing about the 2003 draft might wonder why a certain Serbian 7 footer gets so much attention in these parts!

Dixon is from Baltimore, and he's the all-time leading scorer at the U. of Maryland, plus he led them to the NCAA title in '02. He was drafted by the Wizards in the first round, basically as a "favorite son," but he kinda sucked for them in the few years he played there. Dixon to the Wizards was more or less like Mateen Cleaves was to the Pistons--a local guy his whole life, a big star in college in the same area, led his team to the NCAA title--except Dixon sucked less in the NBA (Mateen couldn't even stay in the league).

Makes sense. I didn't bother reading through it. The length scared me.

Did the Raptors get hosed by the clock? Someone suggested palying the 0.5 seconds over...?? I say give them the W, as no way thet can set up that play again without the game going into OT

YouTube - Ref mistake costs Toronto the game... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUyJECSqkag)

TorontoSun.com - Basketball- Raptors get robbed (http://www.torontosun.com/Sports/Basketball/2008/04/03/5180246-sun.html)

The Bulls come back form 17 down to beat the Cavs. I don't know if it's Ben no longer being on the Bulls or my intense hatred for all things cavs, but my Bulls/Ben Gordon love has come back. Thabo Sefalosha is awesome defensively, and Noah played well.

Meaningless win, but good game for them.

it seems cleveland only plays us tough anymore... really ever game i catch of cleveland they look terrible... just like there record shows they should be, they only seem to get up to play against us... and for the most part we don't see them worthy of being a rival lol

The Bulls come back form 17 down to beat the Cavs. I don't know if it's Ben no longer being on the Bulls or my intense hatred for all things cavs, but my Bulls/Ben Gordon love has come back. Thabo Sefalosha is awesome defensively, and Noah played well.

Meaningless win, but good game for them.

I think I got sucked into the same Cavs-are-winning-Bulls-will-go-down mode that the Cavs players seemed to be experiencing. They seemed to have the game in hand for about 44 minutes but somehow couldn't get it done at the end. Was a good game for the Bulls.

I've never liked Gordan, but he had a decent game last night, especially with only one turnover (though I remember more than that when he drove into traffic and couldn't find anything to do with the ball and ended up throwing it at a teammate's feet). The Bulls will find it rough going though if they are relying on Hughes getting 25 on 11-17 shooting. That won't happen again until Christmas.

Interesting that Hinrich played so badly and for only 20 minutes. Maybe he'll be the odd man out when Pax goes into trading mode this summer. I always assumed he was untouchable, but perhaps not after this season.

Nice game from Ben Wallace, looking very lively coming off the back spasms. Couple of nice moves around the basket, eight boards, three steals, three blocks.

When the Cavs made their big trade, I was a bit skeptical that it would help them in the playoffs this season, because it's tough to integrate so many new pieces in that short a time. They've also had a lot of injury problems--the report I read for last night's game said it was the first time since January that they've had all their rotation players healthy at the same time.

They also won't have as much time to get it together before facing a really tough playoff series this year. Last year, they played a team in the first round that had been destroyed by injuries (Wizards, with both Butler and Arenas out), and then they got the totally lackluster Nets in the second round. This year, whoever their first round opponent is (could be any of Washington, Toronto, or Philly) is likely to have everyone healthy, so they won't have it quite as easy in the first round as they did last year. And then, of course, they'll get the Celtics in the second round, which promises to be a little tougher than that series they had against the Nets last year...:laugh:

Nice game from Ben Wallace, looking very lively coming off the back spasms. Couple of nice moves around the basket, eight boards, three steals, three blocks.

Not disagreeing with you here.... but wow have the mighty fallen when you say 8 boards is a nice game for Ben... that used to be a normal half.



bad ending of a game by labron for the second game in a row... one game he fouls out, this one i guess there saying he had back spasms.... is this something new? hadn't heard him having these before? either way... look for him to be treated a bit more physical when he heads for the paint now.

I think I got sucked into the same Cavs-are-winning-Bulls-will-go-down mode that the Cavs players seemed to be experiencing. They seemed to have the game in hand for about 44 minutes but somehow couldn't get it done at the end. Was a good game for the Bulls.

I've never liked Gordan, but he had a decent game last night, especially with only one turnover (though I remember more than that when he drove into traffic and couldn't find anything to do with the ball and ended up throwing it at a teammate's feet). The Bulls will find it rough going though if they are relying on Hughes getting 25 on 11-17 shooting. That won't happen again until Christmas.

Interesting that Hinrich played so badly and for only 20 minutes. Maybe he'll be the odd man out when Pax goes into trading mode this summer. I always assumed he was untouchable, but perhaps not after this season.

Nice game from Ben Wallace, looking very lively coming off the back spasms. Couple of nice moves around the basket, eight boards, three steals, three blocks.


There's a few articles in the CHI paper saying as much

Also, apparently LB has contacted Paxson through a middle man saying he would LOVE the job. I think if anyone he can turn that team around. They lack mental toughness and he could possibly fix that.

Larry Hughes could go two ways under him. Either he becomes fantastic (he really is a good passer when he actually passes LOL), or meets the end of the bench.

Carlisle, and Calipari (sp?) are the two other names being thrown around.

There's a few articles in the CHI paper saying as much

Also, apparently LB has contacted Paxson through a middle man saying he would LOVE the job. I think if anyone he can turn that team around. They lack mental toughness and he could possibly fix that.

Larry Hughes could go two ways under him. Either he becomes fantastic (he really is a good passer when he actually passes LOL), or meets the end of the bench.

Carlisle, and Calipari (sp?) are the two other names being thrown around.

There is no way LB coaches that team with its current roster. He and Paxson would first and foremost do some wheeling and dealing.

I doubt if Tyrus Thomas or Noah would be around under LB. Gordon, Deng and Hinrich he can deal with, IMO.

Not disagreeing with you here.... but wow have the mighty fallen when you say 8 boards is a nice game for Ben... that used to be a normal half.

He's still not right although i agree the days of his monster performances are going to be few and far between. He had that dunk towards the end of the game that would have put CLE up 4 ? i think and swung momentum, and got rejected . . . by the rim. It would have been funny had it not been so sad. To say he's had a tough time since he left here would be an understatement.

There is no way LB coaches that team with its current roster. He and Paxson would first and foremost do some wheeling and dealing.

I doubt if Tyrus Thomas or Noah would be around under LB. Gordon, Deng and Hinrich he can deal with, IMO.

Oddly, i think he would adore Noah, Tyrus not sure. The Bulls don't really have much wiggle room with LH. He's essentially untradeable, and Deng from all acounts is going to be locked up.

That leaves Gordon, Hinrich, their 1st round pick, and Thomas as pieces to possibly move. I think they'd be crazy to get rid of Gordon, but he is asking for a huge amount of $$ so who knows.

Oddly, i think he would adore Noah, Tyrus not sure.

Both too young and undisciplined to thrive in LB`s system.

Noah would probably go off before midseason and Thomas would be lost in LB`s structured offense. He needs a high flying west coast team to flourish.

Not disagreeing with you here.... but wow have the mighty fallen when you say 8 boards is a nice game for Ben... that used to be a normal half.

Yeah, you're right. Ben seemed to be impacting the game last night though. Haven't seen that in a while other than when he plays against Detroit.


I doubt if Tyrus Thomas or Noah would be around under LB. Gordon, Deng and Hinrich he can deal with, IMO.

I actually think LB would help Thomas, Noah, Deng, and Hinrich. Gordon though will drive him nuts. The NBA player that Gordan can guard hasn't been made yet, and not guarding causes Larry's head to explode.

This is a real request. Will someone please explain Denver to me? What is the problem over there? Is Karl a lousy coach? How is it that these guys can't defend seemingly anyone? I don't understand enough about defense to get it. I mean don't they have a defense coach? Players go straight to the basket while they all stand there next to their man. It drives me insane.

The Nuggets have been the only other team besides my beloved Pistons that I have followed closely, almost every game. I really like this team. (Well, mostly A.I. is what drew me in).The talent level. Dynamic. Seems like a lot of nice pieces on the bench. But...somehow...

They lost to the Sonics in double overtime tonight. I went to watch them in Seattle. I mean most of the game the Sonics were in the lead!

Anyway, if anyone can explain to me in this thread why Denver is so...ineffectual I'd really appreciate it. On paper and in the way the players are it just seems like they should be able to be more successful with that talent level. They get assists, they move the ball, they have shooters...is it just the defense? In which case what does George Karl do for them? They seem to lack...mental toughness and discipline.

I'm really burned up. I'm watching NBATV replay of this game right now and all this sloppiness with so much at stake. The playoffs at stake and this.....inexplicable melting down even after Sacramento game. (Also they probably shouldn't have run up that 162 pt game against the Sonics previously, creating an unnecessary Payback scenario).

Also I hate to see A.I. suffer. It doesn't look like they'll make the playoffs, and really even if they do they'll be out in the first round playing whoever is the 1 Seed. But I need...answers
from the Pf.com basketball brain trust.What gives with this group?

Defense is about Attitude and work.... and though i don't watch there games much whenever i look at there stats you see anthony has a down right terrible plus minus.... the last game against sac stood out like a light to me he scores 47 points but was -6 in 38 mins... AI played almost 43 mins but was plus 6... so looks like this team is really lost when he's off the court.

Anthony is just not that great of a player.... he is a incredible scorer but to bad baketball has two ends of the court. They have a great defender in camby too....

If we drafted him I'm pretty sure we wouldn't have won our title in 04 and probably wouldn't have been the elite team we have been the last few years.....

Ohhh and there coach is over rated too.

It's hard to tell what would have happened to Melo in the D. It's a different atmosphere obviously, a very tough locker room and a GM who is hands on with the players.

WAS seems to have BOS number. They're like the Piston's Utah.

I hope that ends up being a 2nd round matchup.

WAS seems to have BOS number. They're like the Piston's Utah.

I hope that ends up being a 2nd round matchup.

LOL........

There is no way in this lifetime that the Wiz would beat Boston in a 7 game series...........

You don`t really believe that do you??

LOL........

There is no way in this lifetime that the Wiz would beat Boston in a 7 game series...........

You don`t really believe that do you??

I don't think they'd beat them, but i do think they can take it to at least 6 (possibly 7). I really don't have faith in the Cavs putting up much of a fight, but who knows they have been playing better (and they do have Lebron).

I don't think they'd beat them, but i do think they can take it to at least 6 (possibly 7).


Don`t let the smooth taste fool you.

Five games, at the most.

LOL........

There is no way in this lifetime that the Wiz would beat Boston in a 7 game series...........

You don`t really believe that do you??

Never say Never.:nono:...so far the Wiz have taken 3 out of 4 from those Celtics this season and agent zero was missing from the first two wins. Tonight I believe the wiz took over at the end of 1st qtr and never looked back even with Allen and Pierce playing over 36 mins and KG 30...and all three were in there down the stretch trying to pull out the victory. AS LPgirl indicated they could have the C's number. Nobody thought the 4-0 season series edge the Warriors had over the #1 seeded Mavs meant anything either until the after the Cuban took the team fishing after the first round. :fish2:

The problem is even if the wiz beat the Cavs, they may still be suffering fro a tough series and not be physically able to beat the Celtics, but we can hope and speculate :pray:

maybe the celtics lost on purpose in the hopes that cleveland would drop to the 6th seed before the playoffs start.

Never say Never.:nono:...so far the Wiz have taken 3 out of 4 from those Celtics this season and agent zero was missing from the first two wins. Tonight I believe the wiz took over at the end of 1st qtr and never looked back even with Allen and Pierce playing over 36 mins and KG 30...and all three were in there down the stretch trying to pull out the victory. AS LPgirl indicated they could have the C's number. Nobody thought the 4-0 season series edge the Warriors had over the #1 seeded Mavs meant anything either until the after the Cuban took the team fishing after the first round. :fish2:

The problem is even if the wiz beat the Cavs, they may still be suffering fro a tough series and not be physically able to beat the Celtics, but we can hope and speculate :pray:

Dre, just like you see things that we don`t in the LA scene, I am here in DC and kind of have a feel for this team here.

I must admit, they look better this year than in the past, especially Haywood, the guy is playing great, however, beating someone, I don`t care how many times in the regular season doesn`t mean jack.

The comparison between the Mavs and the Warriors, well we all know the Mavs custom of needing the "Heimlich Manuever" in the post season anyway.

Didn`t The Bulls beat us like 3 out of 4 one year, in the regular season and the Pistons took them out in the playoffs?

The Wizards will not make it out of the first round of the playoffs. You can write that on the front page, back page or wherever!!

Dre, just like you see things that we don`t in the LA scene, I am here in DC and kind of have a feel for this team here.

I must admit, they look better this year than in the past, especially Haywood, the guy is playing great, however, beating someone, I don`t care how many times in the regular season doesn`t mean jack.

The comparison between the Mavs and the Warriors, well we all know the Mavs custom of needing the "Heimlich Manuever" in the post season anyway.

Didn`t The Bulls beat us like 3 out of 4 one year, in the regular season and the Pistons took them out in the playoffs?

The Wizards will not make it out of the first round of the playoffs. You can write that on the front page, back page or wherever!!

Uh oh, I feel a challenge:)dem fightin words:starwars:..The Wiz making it out of the first round may possibly depend on the back spasms of LaBron and Big Ben...if those two are at 50% then even the Miami D-leagers might beat them...now if they slip to sixth place then you are right, I don't think they get pass Shard, Superhoward and the Turk....

Went to the Raptors-Nets game tonight at the ACC in Toronto. There were a number of spare seats still but the crowd made sure they gave Carter hell every time he touched it by booing and chanting "VC Sucks!"
Have to admit it was pretty funny, Carter blew a kiss to the crowd at one point and he did have a nice game.
Delfino lit it up in the 2nd Q to bring the Raps back into the game. He ended up with 24 points with 6-8 from downtown.

After the first Q with the Nets up like 30-18 I was wondering why they aren't a better team. But after the game finished I had a better idea. Devin Harris is going to be a good PG for them but he doesn't seem to set many guys up or get big assist totals. He is good at getting to the basket but misses more in traffic than he makes. He needs to develop a pull-up jumpshot from 6-10 feet. VC and RJ are one-on-one players and don't make their teammates better at all. The Nets defense is also very bad, they don't stop many guys at all and their perimeter D sucks completely. You would have thought they'd have scouted the Raps a bit better than that as they are an excellent perimeter team and it was this that brought them back into the game.

On the flipside I don't really see the Raps challenging anyone in the postseason and I've seen a tonne of Raps games this season. Bargnani won't become much more than a role player I feel. They also need to figure out their PG situation. They need to choose 1 and go with it. Calderon is the guy I'd go with.

Off to the big D on Monday and going to Wolves-Pistons on Tuesday. Should be great!

What looked like a mismatch in the first half with the Lakers leading by as many as 30 and then eventually 20 at the half, turned into an almost steal by the Hornets as they came all the way back to be down by 1 at 96-95 with less than 3 minutes to go. The lakers pulled out a 107-104 victory as the Hornets made a couple of mental mistakes taking the ball out and the Lakers clinch the Pacific Division Championship... it was thir first since 2003-04 and we remember what happen to them that year.

CP3 was held to 15 points but had 17 assists and with 5 fouls in the 4th actually was on the bench for most of the 4th qtr comeback while Peja was hitting 3's from the the corner and Tyson C was 8-8 from the field in the middle. Lakers now need to go back and review their lack of defense in the second half as they did not beat the Hornets, they just happen to have the most points when the clock went 0:00. Oh yeah, they were 10-36 from beyind the arc!

Pistons stay ahead of Hornets by one game and 1.5 over the Lakers and remain 2 over the Spurs and we still have an additonal tiebreaker game over the Hornets and SPurs by virtue of the season sweeps.

After Dre's post, my jaw dropped at CP3's 17 assists. So I checked out some of the NBA stat leaders and found this funny stat. In blocks per game, Sheed is the highest-ranked current Piston at 13 overall with 1.64/game. Behind him in 14th is none other than Darko (1.63/game). Behind Darko in 15th is none other than good ol' Big Ben (1.62/game). What is up with that? Is Detroit a breeding ground for quality shot-blockers or what?

What is up with that? Is Detroit a breeding ground for quality shot-blockers or what?

Also think about Ratliff's career blocks total after he got his start in Detroit. And Amir's blocks per minute is almost leading the entire NBA.

The outcome of tonight's Cavs-Sixer game barnburner has some bearing on who the Pistons might face in the first round as the Sixers were called out of the lockeroom to see the Cavs steal a victory that was already lost. Its also clinched HCA in the first round for the Cavs, where a lost tonight and one Wednesday to the Pistons could have force the Cavs to the 5th seed.

Devin Brown hit two free throws with .2 seconds after the game had already been declared over and a 90-89 sixer victory. Instead the Cavs get a 91-90 W and the Sixers who started the night off tied for sixth place with the Raptors now find themselves in 7th spot and an almost certain destiny with the Pistons with only ond game left. I think our almost certain 4 game sweep of the Raptors is dead now in the first round and we will have to deal with our matchup issues that the Sixers will throw at us.

Pistons in Six, but we really don't want to play that many.

The outcome of tonight's Cavs-Sixer game barnburner has some bearing on the who the Pistons might face in the first round as the Sixers were called out of the lockeroom to see the Cavs steal a victory that was already lost. Its also clinched HCA in the first round for the Cavs, where a lost tonight and one Wednesday to the Pistons could have force the Cavs to the 5th seed.

Devin Brown hit two free throws with .02 seconds after the game had already been declared over and instead of the Sixers and Raptors remaining tied for the sixth spot the sixers fall to the th spot and almost certain destiny with the Pistons with only ond game left. I think our almost certain 4 game sweep of the Raptors is dead now in the first round and we will have to deal with our matchup issues that the Sixers will throw at us. Pistons in Six, but we really don't want to play that many.

Dre, I started a thread on the ending of that game, that was so not right.

That was a retarded ending. I'm so annoyed. It figures CLE will find some way to screw with us even though we don't play them in the PO's. There's gotta be tons off Amir/AA/Max in this series. We're going to need athleticism and speed to compete with theirs.

Dre, I started a thread on the ending of that game, that was so not right.


I know Dlev, then I turned to the VS channel to see the Predators score 2 goals in 9 seconds to go up 4-3. So two points, two goals, and 2 games stolen and in a 10 minute span and the fate of two Detroit playoff teams are up in the air.

I mean each team is still looking good to win but both of their percentages went down.:yellowprison:

Ramon Sessions (yeah, who?) with 24 assists tonight in loss to the Bulls in a defensively-challenged game.
I was actually thinking about going to that game to watch Bogut. Damn...

Ramon Sessions (yeah, who?) with 24 assists tonight in loss to the Bulls in a defensively-challenged game.
I was actually thinking about going to that game to watch Bogut. Damn...

Webz, how are you doing on the road? How much longer are your travels going to be? You sound like you are trying to make the most of it.

I must have been bad luck to the teams I wanted to win tonight.... first I tuned into the Toronto/Miami game and they were tied 64-64..and within 5 minutes the Heat were down 12 and headed for a certain loss and the Raptors were headed for a certain six seed clinching win.

So I switched to the Cavs and Wiz and see the Cavs up 8 nearing the end of the 3rd qtr but the Wiz comeback and actually grab the lead with less than a minute to go and exchange leads until the end when the refs decide the game on a last second foul with most of the sixers in the locker room taking off their jerseys and jock straps sweat bands:sssh:

Next I tuned into the wings and they are leading 3-2 with four minutes to go and before I could say GO WINGS, they are down 4-3:yellowprison:

Then I go out for awhile and come home and watched the last 7 minutes of the Warriors/Suns game hoping the warriors could hold on to that last playoff spot. Well the Warriors were up 107-96 at that point and the Suns rolled off 11 straight to tie and take over the game and win.

I may skip watching the Pistons tomorrow...:)

Take a break Dre. You deserve a game off.

I must have been bad luck to the teams I wanted to win tonight.... first I tuned into the Toronto/Miami game and they were tied 64-64..and within 5 minutes the Heat were down 12 and headed for a certain loss and the Raptors were headed for a certain six seed clinching win.

So I switched to the Cavs and Wiz and see the Cavs up 8 nearing the end of the 3rd qtr but the Wiz comeback and actually grab the lead with less than a minute to go and exchange leads until the end when the refs decide the game on a last second foul with most of the sixers in the locker room taking off their jerseys and jock straps sweat bands:sssh:

Next I tuned into the wings and they are leading 3-2 with four minutes to go and before I could say GO WINGS, they are down 4-3:yellowprison:

Then I go out for awhile and come home and watched the last 7 minutes of the Warriors/Suns game hoping the warriors could hold on to that last playoff spot. Well the Warriors were up 107-96 at that point and the Suns rolled off 11 straight to tie and take over the game and win.

I may skip watching the Pistons tomorrow...:)

I think you're not rested enough. You need to get one of your kids to start watching games so you can get some rest. Of course, you will have to start off the game yourself, but at least sub out before the end of the first quarter, otherwise you WILL burn yourself out. We GOT to get you rested for the playoffs.

I must have been bad luck to the teams I wanted to win tonight.... first I tuned into the Toronto/Miami game and they were tied 64-64..and within 5 minutes the Heat were down 12 and headed for a certain loss and the Raptors were headed for a certain six seed clinching win.

So I switched to the Cavs and Wiz and see the Cavs up 8 nearing the end of the 3rd qtr but the Wiz comeback and actually grab the lead with less than a minute to go and exchange leads until the end when the refs decide the game on a last second foul with most of the sixers in the locker room taking off their jerseys and jock straps sweat bands:sssh:

Next I tuned into the wings and they are leading 3-2 with four minutes to go and before I could say GO WINGS, they are down 4-3:yellowprison:

Then I go out for awhile and come home and watched the last 7 minutes of the Warriors/Suns game hoping the warriors could hold on to that last playoff spot. Well the Warriors were up 107-96 at that point and the Suns rolled off 11 straight to tie and take over the game and win.

I may skip watching the Pistons tomorrow...:)

Is Flip your coach, Dre?

I think you're not rested enough. You need to get one of your kids to start watching games so you can get some rest. Of course, you will have to start off the game yourself, but at least sub out before the end of the first quarter, otherwise you WILL burn yourself out. We GOT to get you rested for the playoffs.

Yeah I think if I had been there at the start of each game, then the team I was pulling for would have won, but I joined each game in progress, so it appeared as if I was Lindsey Hunter coming in midway thru the game and stalling the offense:MusicBigGrin:

Yeah I think if I had been there at the start of each game, then the team I was pulling for would have won, but I joined each game in progress, so it appeared as if I was Lindsey Hunter coming in midway thru the game and stalling the offense:MusicBigGrin:

:pound:

Is Flip your coach, Dre?

On the contrary, dre is master of puppets.

After listening to Jim Rome and ARTH, PTI today I have to wonder what Don Nelson was thinking??? He benches Steven Jackson for the whole second qtr and then benches Baron Davis for the whole second half???? When I was watching the game, I just assumed Baron was hurt or had fouled out,,,,,but Nelly just decided to leave him on the bench? WTF nelly you have a 12 pt lead with 6 mins left and Davis is left on the bench???? The season wasn't over yet ...you still had two more W's in there to grab the 8th seed and knock off the # 1 seed again..........but now its time for the Nuggs go to on vacation and Baron and Jackson maybe fleeing from the Bay area this summer via the FA market...we could sure use Jackson in place of Hayes...guess we don't have enough cash though....

Mikhail what's the local spend on Nelly's decision>??

After listening to Jim Rome and ARTH, PTI today I have to wonder what Don Nelson was thinking??? He benches Steven Jackson for the whole second qtr and then benches Baron Davis for the whole second half???? When I was watching the game, I just assumed Baron was hurt or had fouled out,,,,,but Nelly just decided to leave him on the bench? WTF nelly you have a 12 pt lead with 6 mins left and Davis is left on the bench???? The season wasn't over yet ...you still had two more W's in there to grab the 8th seed and knock off the # 1 seed again..........but now its time for the Nuggs go to on vacation and Baron and Jackson maybe fleeing from the Bay area this summer via the FA market...we could sure use Jackson in place of Hayes...guess we don't have enough cash though....

Mikhail what's the local spend on Nelly's decision>??
It was a bit shocking here, because Nelly has been riding his 6 top players very hard trying to get every win he could. But Davis never played harder for anybody else, and the way he played Nelly really had nothing to lose. So it's like a three-legged stool. :sssh:

It was a bit shocking here, because Nelly has been riding his 6 top players very hard trying to get every win he could. But Davis never played harder for anybody else, and the way he played Nelly really had nothing to lose. So it's like a three-legged stool. :sssh:

I heard Baron had a little too much fun the night before, and was hungover, and Nelly was pissed, but i'm not really sure if it's true.

I heard Baron had a little too much fun the night before, and was hungover, and Nelly was pissed, but i'm not really sure if it's true.
I don't know if that's true, but Phoenix is simply a better team, and I don't think it would've made a difference one way or another. Warriors had to beat Denver and they simply failed to do so.

Portland Trailblazers thanked their fans in a pregame ceremony that had each player, starters and bench, men come down the stairs from various fan entry tunnels around the arena during the player intros so that each could slap hands with the fans as they each came down the steps.

Of course they didn't let Greg Odom do this as they could not risk a fan tripping him and he comes tumbling down the steps. I'm shocked they let any player do it because a couple of them looked shakey negotiating those steps and slapping the fans palms at the same.

Portland Trailblazers thanked their fans in a pregame ceremony that had each player, starters and bench, men come down the stairs from various fan entry tunnels around the arena during the player intros so that each could slap hands with the fans as they each came down the steps.

Of course they didn't let Greg Odom do this as they could not risk a fan tripping him and he comes tumbling down the steps. I'm shocked they let any player do it because a couple of them looked shakey negotiating those steps and slapping the fans palms at the same.

Arnie would never allow for that here.
:hoops:

Spurs blow out UT, get the 3rd seed.

PHO/SAS in the 1st round. I'm excited. Looks like the Lakers will be in the ECF waiting.

Here's a look at the Western Conference playoff contenders:

16 playoff teams, 16 questions: West - NBA - Yahoo! Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=jy-westquestions041708&prov=yhoo&type=lgns)


Lakers. Hornets. Spurs. Jazz. Rockets. Suns. Mavericks. Nuggets. All of them should feel proud they’re still standing and a little nervous that they’ve got to slug it out for another 1½ months just to see if one of them can survive long enough to reach the NBA Finals.

The competition is such this season that seeds determine home-court advantage, but not favorites.

“However you want to slice it, Dallas is just as good as New Orleans,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. “I really don’t even think there will be any upsets all.

“It will be so-and-so beat so-and-so.”

With that, let’s take a look at the pressing questions facing each of these eight so-and-sos.

SportingNews.com - Your expert source for NBA Basketball stats, scores, standings, blogs and fantasy news from NBA Basketball columnists (http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=400998)



It's been a long drink of water since the NBA playoffs looked this good. By The List's count, five teams --- the Celtics, Lakers, Pistons, Spurs and Suns --- are good enough to win the championship. Conventional wisdom sets that number even higher. Unlike last year, when only one series all postseason went seven games, there could be a half-dozen or more that go the distance in 2008.
Forget that. There will be a half-dozen or more that go the distance. And that will make 2008 one of the best playoff years of the modern era. It's time for amazing to happen. The List's 10 ironclad locks for the most ridiculously great NBA postseason since Michael Jordan shoved Bryon Russell out of the way and drained a shot heard 'round the world:

Here is my handicapping.

1st tier- Pistons (20%)/ Celtics (25%)/ Spurs (15%)/ Lakers (15%)- 75% chance the winner will come from this group.
2nd tier- Magic (4%)/ Cavs (3%)/ Hornets (10%)/ Jazz (3%)- 20% chance it will be from here
3rd- Rockets/ Suns/ Mavs/ Wizards- 4.9% chance of these guys winning

Hawks/ Sixers/ Raptors/ Nuggets have almost a 0% chance IMO. .1%

That's how I see it.

Portland Trailblazers thanked their fans in a pregame ceremony that had each player, starters and bench, men come down the stairs from various fan entry tunnels around the arena during the player intros so that each could slap hands with the fans as they each came down the steps.

Of course they didn't let Greg Odom do this as they could not risk a fan tripping him and he comes tumbling down the steps. I'm shocked they let any player do it because a couple of them looked shakey negotiating those steps and slapping the fans palms at the same.

It was fan appreciation night at the palace on Tuesday and they were giving away game-worn jerseys from each Pistons player (not from that game though).

Same deal at the Cavs game, except they gave away their shoes and their jerseys after the game.

Here is my handicapping.

1st tier- Pistons (20%)/ Celtics (25%)/ Spurs (15%)/ Lakers (15%)- 75% chance the winner will come from this group.
2nd tier- Magic (4%)/ Cavs (3%)/ Hornets (10%)/ Jazz (3%)- 20% chance it will be from here
3rd- Rockets/ Suns/ Mavs/ Wizards- 4.9% chance of these guys winning

Hawks/ Sixers/ Raptors/ Nuggets have almost a 0% chance IMO. .1%

That's how I see it.

Celtics (50%)/Lakers (50%)

This is the way Stern sees it....

Celtics (50%)/Lakers (50%)

This is the way Stern sees it....
True dat.

Celtics (50%)/Lakers (50%)

This is the way Stern sees it....

And he will do his best to make sure one if not both make it there...:nod: Our guys have to play and think smart....complaining will get you sent to the bench for ticky tack fouls and ticky tack techs

It's the Roc-A-Fella symbol

R U SURE?
it's MoRe...
:yellowprison:

Celtics (50%)/Lakers (50%)

This is the way Stern sees it....


Also, does anyone find it to be a coinsidence that the Bulls won the top pick?

NBA is rigged towards the Lakers, Celtics and Bulls. Of course they need to be in the right position to win i.e. have a good team but if they are, LOOKOUT!

How'd you like those touch fouls that kept goin' against the P's last night?

Also, does anyone find it to be a coinsidence that the Bulls won the top pick?

NBA is rigged towards the Lakers, Celtics and Bulls. Of course they need to be in the right position to win i.e. have a good team but if they are, LOOKOUT!

How'd you like those touch fouls that kept goin' against the P's last night?
I think it gets a little ridiculous when we take any team that succeeds and says the league is rigging the NBA to favor this team.

Rigging/conspiracy theories can be ridiculous.

Take this bit from a Celtics blog after the Pistons game 4 EC Finals win:


There is little special about Detroit's current "Motown Hackers" Piston basketball team. If ever an hometown officiating team needed reviewing and investigating for game rigging allegations...THIS game manipulating zebra striped crew warrants such.
For two straight Motor City games now, these Pistons have been allowed to mug any Boston player possible and in such an obvious blatant manner. This two game spat of ref bias has been the worst we have witnessed in years...in any sport and in any game. It is sickening and sadly takes the fun out of watching the sport at this level. Never say never on our now stated suspician. In the history of sports, more than a few refs have interferred with a game's outcome but got caught way too late to provide any real sense of justice.
For the most part, the main time these hometown Detroit refs called fouls increasing Boston's later total was at the least important times and mostly in the third and fourth quarters. Sure, this opposing city's officiating crew belatedly called lots of fouls against their homies, but, not until they had thwarted any chance at the C's blowing out their boys. Calling less of consequence belated sometimes questionably earned fouls against the Pistons mostly in the second half merely to pretend to not be biased during both of Detroit's home games makes their acts all the more suspect.


Pierce seizes moment - Celtics Blog - Boston.com (http://www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/2008/05/pierce_seizes_m.html#comments)

Is a suspician like a Magician?

Like these Boston fans. They all seem to be Suspicians to me.

Maybe someone should show Bobby Z tape of Robert Parrish and KC Jones punching Bill Laimbeer. :gun1:

Rigging/conspiracy theories can be ridiculous.

Take this bit from a Celtics blog after the Pistons game 4 EC Finals win:



Pierce seizes moment - Celtics Blog - Boston.com (http://www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/2008/05/pierce_seizes_m.html#comments)

Wow. Almost makes a person want to take the tinted glasses off, huh? Hmmm... NAH! :)

Atlanta says they will match, but if the Sixers were to keep playing they way they did the second half of last season, and get Josh Smith, they will be plenty tough.

RealGM: Basketball Wiretap Archives: Sixers Set To Meet With Josh Smith (http://www.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/53337/20080702/sixers_set_to_meet_with_josh_smith/)

RealGM: Basketball Wiretap Archives: Source: Lakers Offer Odom For Artest (http://www.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/53510/20080710/source_lakers_offer_odom_for_artest/)


Puts Gasol over to the four spot with Bynum coming back. Artest would be a nice addition for them assuming he doesn't self destruct.

RealGM: Basketball Wiretap Archives: Source: Lakers Offer Odom For Artest (http://www.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/53510/20080710/source_lakers_offer_odom_for_artest/)


Puts Gasol over to the four spot with Bynum coming back. Artest would be a nice addition for them assuming he doesn't self destruct.

That would be a pretty tough lineup. Defensively too.