Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesJason Terry dribbles the ball around a pick set by Dirk Nowitzki. Two Lakers hesitate on the switch leaving just a few feet of space between Nowitzki and Lamar Odom. And that's all it takes.Terry sends a bounce pass to Nowitzki near the baseline, and in a move perfected through years and years of shooting drills, Nowitzki's legs slightly spread apart as he jumps, Odom gets there just a split second too late, and the ball completes its journey, splashing through the net.For Dirk Nowitzki, those were points 20,000 and 20,001, Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
giving him a milestone that only 34 players in the NBA have, and one that is considered the benchmark for any scorer worth his salt.As a German, he showed that big, tall Europeans who can shoot can indeed become superstars in the NBA. As a player, he turned Dallas into more than just a football town. As a power forward, he revolutionized the position and forced countless coaches to adapt to a whole new kind of game plan.On Feb. 5, 1999, the Dallas Mavericks were playing the Seattle Supersonics, and a lanky, 19-year-old German stepped to the free throw line. He had missed all five of his field goals, his first shots in the NBA.He nailed those two free throws, though, the only ones he attempted. Points number one and two.On Jan. 13, 2010, nearly 11 years after those first two free throws, Nowitzki scored his 20,000th point on a baseline jumper over Lamar Odom.Oh sure, some things have changed. Steve Nash has turned into Jason Terry, Michael Finley into Josh Howard, and that mailbox outside the AAC into Erick Dampier.The wins have changed, too. From 19 that first short season, to 40 the next. Ever since then, the Mavs haven't dipped below 50 wins, with Nowitzki as the one remaining constant.For Nowitzki and his fans, Feb. 5, 1999, seems like a lifetime ago. In between, there was an MVP campaign, a trip to the Finals, multiple All-Star appearances, buzzer-beating game-winners, and much more.But one thing hasn't changed: There is no championship ring on his finger, and no Larry O'Brien trophy at the American Airlines Center.Sure, he got close, and one could argue until the cows come home about the 2006 championship that was lost, or taken away, depending on who you ask.Nowitzki has always drawn his fair share of hate, though. I don't know why, whether people are just stupid, or...well, they're just stupid.If you know a single thing about the game of basketball, you cannot deny that Nowitzki is, and has been, a top-five player in the league for the better part of his career.It's because of him that people like Darko Milicic and Andrea Bargnani became such highly coveted prospects. Even today, GMs around the league are always on the search for the "next Dirk Nowitzki."What's really remarkable about his game is how refined his offense has become.His signature shot is the "one-legged Euro fadeaway," and it is the most un-defendable shot since Kareem's skyhook.Nowitzki begins by facing his defender straight up, which by itself is a departure from the usual game of forwards. Forwards are used to banging bodies defensively, and though Nowitzki always gets crap for not backing people down, he's just too damn good to do that.He faces them up, takes a few steps off his pivot foot to see how much space he gets, and more often than not, propels himself backward at a 45 degree angle and drains the high, arcing shot.He's so reliable at it that he's able to exploit the defenders who just settle into thinking he's going to take that shot. When he takes that brief moment of hesitation, the defender will lean in, anticipating that fade-away, then Nowitzki takes a quick step in to the basket as the defender is already off balance and a step behind, allowing a straight shot to the basketor someone else has to help the defender, leaving another Maverick open. Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
He's also a very underrated rebounder, though I wouldn't call him dominant on the boards by any stretch. He gets most of his on the defensive glass, since he's rarely under the basket on offense.Of course, Nowitzki's got the range to hit the three-pointer, but as the Mavs have gotten better perimeter players, his three-point attempts have gone down. So now, it's less a major part of his game and more an added bonus should he find himself trailing the fast break just right, or if, stupidly, he is left alone on the perimeter.Dirk Nowitzki got me into basketball. I always watched the playoffs, but I never really followed a team until the blond 7-foot German with the Hans Gruber smirk who could shoot the lights out came along.So what are my favorite memories of Dirk? Well, I've got a ton, but here are just a few of my personal favorites:Dirk Hits the Game-winner against the Utah Jazz, April 10, 2008After a lackluster start to the Jason Kidd: Redux era, the Mavericks found themselves not only losing to a good team but fighting for a playoff spot.When Deron Williams banked in a three to tie a nail-biter of a game in Dallas with 5.8 seconds left, the Mavericks looked like they would be lucky to get an eight seed.But Nowitzki had other plans. The Mavs didn't take a timeout, and they rushed up the floor before Utah could get set with Nowitzki on the wing all alone. I watched this one live at my house, and I threw a few punches in the air and may or may not have howled like a wolfDirk drops four three-pointers in 1:41 during a 24-point comeback against Toronto, Nov. 20, 2007The Mavs were still getting over the hangover of the upset to the Warriors in the 2007 playoffs when they fell behind big to the Toronto Raptors at home. If there's one thing we know, it is that with a three-point shooter like Nowitzki, no lead is safe.He proceeded to key the rally by hitting four straight three-pointers in the final 1:41 of the third quarter where Dallas outscored the Raptors 38-17. Wowzers.Dirk drops 50 on the Phoenix Suns in the Western Conference Finals Game 4, June 1, 2006This was the infamous "Tim Thomas blows Dirk a kiss game," and it's something that I'll never forget watching. It's also really the last time the NBA was innocent to me, as the events of the 2006 Finals turned me bitter beyond belief, and I still haven't fully recovered.It was a simpler time for us all, when it seemed that Nowitzki's Mavs and Nash's Suns were destined to meet during the playoffs every year, and every series looked like it was going to be great. The Lakers were terrible, Dwyane Wade was single-handedly winning playoff games before the refs helped him out, and LeBron was still stuck with players like Eric Snow. That's called playoff clutch kids, and it can't be taughtDirk's Three-point Play Helps Beat theReebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
Spurs at Home in Game 7, May 22, 2006The happiest I've ever been as a basketball fan, and I didn't even see it live. I saw the Mavs blow the 3-1 lead to the Spurs from London by following every newspaper and sports update I could get.I remember getting home the morning after the game and driving back from the airport. I was a few miles away, and all of a sudden it occurred to me that Game Seven was the previous night. I pulled up the scores on my phone, and it was an amazing feeling as the page loaded and I saw the Mavs had prevailed in OT.They blew a 20-point lead and gave up what should have been a dagger three-pointer to Manu Ginobili in the closing minute of the game, but Nowitzki, in his own words, wouldn't let the season slip away.Instead of a fadeaway, he initiated contact, the ball rimmed in, and the Mavericks never looked back. It's all bittersweet, of course, because of what would happen a few short weeks later, but for a few short weeks, Nowitzki was THE best player in the NBA, without question.So that's about it for my Dirk Nowitzki tribute.On a personal note, he is my favorite basketball player of all time. Sometimes it really bums me out beyond belief that Nowitzki might retire without getting a ring, a feeling not unfamiliar to Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, John Stockton, and Reggie Miller fans.I can even empathize with Kevin Garnett fans, because should Nowitzki ever go chase a ring, I couldn't possibly hate it. Who knows, maybe I'm more of a Nowitzki fan than a Mavs fan. I hope I never have to find out.But I've got these memories, and many more that I can't begin to describe. And more than that, Nowitzki hooked me on the sport of basketball. I played it, watched it, and even liked it, but I wasn't the fan I am today, and I wouldn't be without Dirk Werner Nowitzki.I think every fan has a player like that, and it's always good to celebrate that player, particularly one not named LeBron, Kobe, Shaq, or MJ, because those players are too easy for me.It's easy to fall in love with rings and perfection, but it's quite another thing to get into a star before he hits it real big and follow them hopefully all the way to the top. I know there were Jordan, Kobe, and Shaq fans before they won, but you get what I'm saying.So here's to you Dirk. You're a class act on Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
the court, a cold-blooded killer on the court, and one of the best players to ever stroll out on the hardwood.You've given a face to a faceless franchise, and you have blazed the trail for Europeans and sharp-shooting big man.It was an amazing 20,000 points, some at the biggest moments on the biggest stage, and some in garbage time on either end of a blowout.And even if I didn't see all 20,000, they were damn fun to watch, each and every one of them.
2011年1月12日星期三
12 Jan 11 Losing Trevor Ariza, Getting Ron Artest: Did the Lakers Make the Right Moves?
Ron Artest came into the season saying, "It's my fault if we don't win the championship."Well, really, it shouldn't be his fault because he hardly contributes. Artest averages 11 points and shoots 41 percent from the field.The Lakers signedArtest because of his defense and toughness, which he has lacked tremendously this year. He also needs to finish his layups instead of barging into people and looking for the foul call.Artest couldn't even come close to containing LeBron James.He didn't bring any intensityon Christmas Day or the second time they met. I think Kobe Bryant should have guarded LeBron both times they met. The very few plays Phil Jackson allowed Kobe to guard LeBron, Kobe did so with intensity and didn't allowLeBron any space to breathe. Where as on the other side of Seattle Seahawks jersey
the deal, Trevor Ariza is playing very well for Houston, averaging 15 points and 1.7 steals. Kobe could really use somebody to kick it out to. Artest hasn't been reliable this year from beyond the arc.Ariza's defense really came up big last year in the Western Conference Finals and NBA Finals with two game-sealing steals in the last moments in two extremely important games. He also gave the Lakers a lot of momentum with his dunks and steals.I hope sometime this season, Artest can start playing like he did on the Rockets, Pacers, and Kings. I also hope Artest can step up his defense and play with more intensity.But so far, getting him wasn't the right choice.
the deal, Trevor Ariza is playing very well for Houston, averaging 15 points and 1.7 steals. Kobe could really use somebody to kick it out to. Artest hasn't been reliable this year from beyond the arc.Ariza's defense really came up big last year in the Western Conference Finals and NBA Finals with two game-sealing steals in the last moments in two extremely important games. He also gave the Lakers a lot of momentum with his dunks and steals.I hope sometime this season, Artest can start playing like he did on the Rockets, Pacers, and Kings. I also hope Artest can step up his defense and play with more intensity.But so far, getting him wasn't the right choice.
12 Jan 11 Luol Deng and The Bulls: On The Road
Chris Graythen/Getty ImagesThe Bulls have been hot. Their last five games, on the road, they've won. Last night winning on the road vs CP3 and the Hornets. All thanks to Luol Deng with 26 points, Derrek Rose with 18, and a very good game by Joakim Noah with 13 points and 18 rebounds!For the Bulls here, it's not all about being "hot" in their case, because they've also been lucky. Last night, the Hornets look like they won the game late with seven seconds left in the game, but thought turning over the ball was a better idea, then later losing. That gave the bulls the chancDetroit Lions
e to tie the game, and win it by two in OT.The Bulls now are 23-22 on the season with their five straight wins over five Western Conference winning teams and 13 wins in their last 18 games. Because for a team where a month ago it seemed everything was going wrong, now they are getting the breaks. Or is it when you play loose and confident you make your breaks? And though the Hornets made the blunder of the night, it was the Bulls who contributed to it by never giving up even in seemingly a lost cause.About the Overtime WIN vs Hornets:The Hornets set up in an angled Green Bay Packers jersey
picket fence with Darren Collison supposed to run Rose into two screens and get the inbounds. Why, Im not sure. He is an 87 percent free throw shooter, but he is a rookie. Noah did a terrific job backing off inbounding West in front of the Hornets bench in the backcourt and playing free safety. The Hornets couldn advance the ball because West had recovered the loose ball rebound and moved before calling timeout.Da Bulls! ARE HOT!
e to tie the game, and win it by two in OT.The Bulls now are 23-22 on the season with their five straight wins over five Western Conference winning teams and 13 wins in their last 18 games. Because for a team where a month ago it seemed everything was going wrong, now they are getting the breaks. Or is it when you play loose and confident you make your breaks? And though the Hornets made the blunder of the night, it was the Bulls who contributed to it by never giving up even in seemingly a lost cause.About the Overtime WIN vs Hornets:The Hornets set up in an angled Green Bay Packers jersey
picket fence with Darren Collison supposed to run Rose into two screens and get the inbounds. Why, Im not sure. He is an 87 percent free throw shooter, but he is a rookie. Noah did a terrific job backing off inbounding West in front of the Hornets bench in the backcourt and playing free safety. The Hornets couldn advance the ball because West had recovered the loose ball rebound and moved before calling timeout.Da Bulls! ARE HOT!
2011年1月10日星期一
10 Jan 11 NBA Trade Deadline: Eddie House Out, Nate Robinson In for the Boston Celtics
Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesJust before Thursday's NBA trade deadline the Boston Celtics sent Eddie House, J.R Giddens, and Bill Walker to the New York Knicks for guard Nate Robinson and undrafted rookie forward Marcus Landry.A lot of Celtics fans are disappointed with this deal, as House was a fan Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
favorite and a great three-point shooter, but his play had slowly declined since helping Boston win a the title in 2007-08."It is tough to see Eddie go," Celtics GM Danny Ainge told the Worcester Telegram Gazette. "He was one of my favorite players to watch and he was a key element in winning the 2008 championship and a tremendous presence in the locker room."Even though House will be missed, the deal is still something to wonder about. Robinson could and should provide some more much-needed scoring from the Celtics bench, but will he gel with the team? Will he be able to pass the ball instead of being what some back in New York called a ball hog?Robinson developed a bad reputation from his time with the Knicks, especially once new coach Mike DAntoni came to town two years ago and took over for faltering head coach Isiah Thomas. Robinson was benched almost immediately and stayed buried there until he came off the bench on Jan. 1 against the Atlanta Hawks (who have swept the Celtics thus far this season), scoring 41 points in 38 minutes.Another thing: How do the actual players of the Celtics feel about it?All-Star guard Rajon Rondo had this to say of Robinson coming to town, according to NBA.com: "I don't know, I don't know. I hope it's for the best. We don't make the decisions, we Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
just play the game."Well, there's just about one way to know if this could help the C, and that time and practice. Overall, even with a solid 15 points a night from Robinson off the bench, it comes down to the Big ThreePaul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Kevin Garnett.If they can get it going and keep it going, the Celtics' chance of getting to the NBA Finals looks like a rocky road.
favorite and a great three-point shooter, but his play had slowly declined since helping Boston win a the title in 2007-08."It is tough to see Eddie go," Celtics GM Danny Ainge told the Worcester Telegram Gazette. "He was one of my favorite players to watch and he was a key element in winning the 2008 championship and a tremendous presence in the locker room."Even though House will be missed, the deal is still something to wonder about. Robinson could and should provide some more much-needed scoring from the Celtics bench, but will he gel with the team? Will he be able to pass the ball instead of being what some back in New York called a ball hog?Robinson developed a bad reputation from his time with the Knicks, especially once new coach Mike DAntoni came to town two years ago and took over for faltering head coach Isiah Thomas. Robinson was benched almost immediately and stayed buried there until he came off the bench on Jan. 1 against the Atlanta Hawks (who have swept the Celtics thus far this season), scoring 41 points in 38 minutes.Another thing: How do the actual players of the Celtics feel about it?All-Star guard Rajon Rondo had this to say of Robinson coming to town, according to NBA.com: "I don't know, I don't know. I hope it's for the best. We don't make the decisions, we Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
just play the game."Well, there's just about one way to know if this could help the C, and that time and practice. Overall, even with a solid 15 points a night from Robinson off the bench, it comes down to the Big ThreePaul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Kevin Garnett.If they can get it going and keep it going, the Celtics' chance of getting to the NBA Finals looks like a rocky road.
2011年1月9日星期日
9 Jan 11 NBA Draft Since 2000: Busting My Way Through, Part One of Three
Jim McIsaac/Getty ImagesI am writing my way through my list of the top three busts each year of the NBA Draft since 2000. I will also list a few honorable mention candidates along the way. I will be making this a three-day, three-part series, so let's revisit some history, shall we... 2000This draft had to be the weakest by far as talent goes as many teams banked on potential rather than pure?skill.?1. Stromile Swift The send pick out of LSU was nothing more than a dunk machine coming into the draft with a high ceiling for untapped potential as a lost post scorer and rebounding threat after leading LSU to the Sweet 16 his sophomore year. He was taken by the Vancouver Grizzlies and played limited minutes in his rookie campaign (16 minutes) and showed raw post skills (scoring five points per game).It wasn't until his Cleveland Browns jersey
second season in the NBA that he showed what he was capable of when he had career highs in points (12), rebounds (six), and blocks (1.7). It didn't last long, though, as his low basketball IQ and limited work ethic cost him a solid career in the league, as he was traded four times before falling out of the league for good in the '08-'09 season.?2. Jerome MoisoThe 11th-overall pick by the Celtics was touted as a defensive stopper coming out of UCLA, but the Celtics quickly realized that they had made a mistake as he had no offensive game to speak of, and they traded him after his first season in the league.He played sparingly for Charlotte and Toronto before going overseas. He holds career averages of 2.7 points per game and 2.7 rebounds per game.?3. DerMarr JohnsonThe sixth pick by Atlanta was supposed to be an energizer who could score in bunches, as he was an electric showman as a freshman at the University of Cincinnati.? The Hawks quickly realized they had a role player rather than a sure starter, as he posted limited numbers his first two seasons there (averaged a career high 8.4 points in '01-'02).Tragedy struck in his third season, as he was involved in a horrific car crash in which he broke his neck, causing him to miss all of the '02-'03 season. He made a miraculous comeback the following season but was not the same player, although he managed to play a limited role for the Denver Nuggets for three seasons and one unproductive one in '07-'08 for San Antonio before heading overseas into obscurity.?Runners-UpCourtney AlexanderPicked 13th overall out of Fresno State University after leading the nation in scoring, he failed to live up to expectations and quickly found his way out of the league due to knee injuries.Alexander never could stay healthy enough to become productive on a regular basis, and lasted only three seasons, but was able to show a glimpse of talented scoring during his time with the Washington Wizards (17 points per game) and ended his NBA stint averaging nine points per game.??Darius MilesMiles was left off, as he was fifth on my list of busts for this draft. As the third-overall pick, he managed a decent career, though he was constantly plagued by injury. He made a brief comeback with Memphis two seasons ago but again failed to shy away from injury.?Erick BarkleyThe St. John's University product failed to meet his over-hyped expectations, as he was drafted late in the first round by the Portland Trail Blazers, and they quickly realized the potential didn't match the hype for the undersized and marginal skilled guard, thus giving up on him after only two seasons. He has since returned to Europe.?20011. Kwame BrownKwame was a highly-touted player out of Glynn Academy High School and was the first overall selection and first draft pick selected by then-GM Michael Jordan. Brown was touted for his ability to score and rebound well, despite having small hands and a questionable work ethic coming in.Brown showed limited flashes his first season on the court (averaging 4.5 points and three boards a game) and was quickly exposed as a weak defender with a low basketball IQ—one who possessed marginal post skills and who would rather shoot mid-range jumpers than bang inside.Brown endured a lot of media criticism throughout his time in Washington Dallas Cowboys jersey
but was able to put together a promising line in his third season (11 points and seven rebounds) but again faded into the darkness and soon was shipped off to the Lakers where he was marginal at best again. Still in the league, Brown is now on his fourth team (Detroit) and is a regular staple who is glued to the bench during games.?2. Rodney WhiteWhite was selected ninth overall by the Detroit Pistons, as he was touted as an athletic scorer who played only one season at UNC-Charlotte before declaring. However, he quickly was exposed for his bad defense, questionable attitude, and lackluster work ethic, soon falling out of favor with then-head coach Rick Carlisle.He often sat on the bench (only scoring 3.5 points per game in 16 games) and did nothing to work himself in the rotation which then led to a trade to Denver in which he posted solid scoring numbers (nine points per game) but again displayed attitude problems and a lack of commitment on defense. He was subsequently traded after four seasons to Golden State, in which he failed to catch on again, leading to his release and a career overseas.?3. Omar CookThe prime example of a player who listened to the hype and declared way too early. Coming out of St. John's University, Cook was hyped as a quick point guard who was the best passer in college basketball (led nation in assists and broke the St. John's record for assists in a game with 17) but one who needed to work on his inconsistent jumper.Cook waited until the second round before hearing his name called.? He was devastated as he was picked by the Orlando Magic, but quickly traded to the Denver Nuggets, in which he was quickly cut due to his inability to hit a jump shot and turnover ratio.Cook found spot time with the Portland Trail Blazers (appearing in 17 games) and Toronto Raptors (five games) before again falling out of the league, in which he paved his way to a successful career over in Europe where he is one of the premier guards in the Spanish ACB League.??Runners-UpKedrick BrownBrown was a JUCO player who displayed a keen ability to score well and displayed freakish athleticism which garnered the attention of the Boston Celtics who selected him 11th overall.Brown showed little in his time with the Celtics, as he was prone to defensive mistakes and showed little work ethic. He soon took his game to the NBDL where he enjoyed success, but more recently returned to Turkey to complete his quest to one day return to the league.?Eddie GriffinEddie displayed much promise coming out of Seton Hall University as he was drafted seventh overall by the Nets and quickly traded to the Rockets.Eddie put up good numbers in his first two seasons (nine points per games, six rebounds per game, and over a block per game) but could not limit his drinking problem. This continued to cause trouble for his career and eventually took his life in August 2007, as he drove in to a moving train, thus ending his much-hyped and heralded career, leaving the question: If not for his addiction, where would his potential have taken him??Kirk Haston"The Machine" out of Indiana University was drafted 16th overall by the Hornets, in which he was touted as a quality scorer due to his patent "sky hook" and solid mid-range game.Haston quickly realized the speed of the game was far too Denver Broncos jersey
fast, and he was no longer an effective shooter (28 percent field goal percentage) and quickly found his career over due to knee injuries. He has since retired after only three NBA seasons.?20021. Nikoloz TskitishviliThe European sharpshooter drafted fifth overall by the Denver Nuggets was nowhere near the player they thought they were drafting. Nikoloz was quickly punished for his lack of defense and average jump shot (30 percent from the field and 23 percent from three-point-territory for his career).Nikoloz was able to latch on with former Euro coach Mike D'Antoni in Phoenix for his final stop in the NBA, but did nothing to prove his Bust Label, and has since returned to Europe, where he again is outmatched overall.?2. Dajuan WagnerThe highly touted phenom out of the University of Memphis was drafted sixth overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers to score buckets at a quick rate.? He excelled despite his low shooting percentages (he averaged 13 points on 37 percent shooting during his rookie year).Wagner showed flashes of untapped potential and was envisioned to make quite the backcourt tandem with LeBron James during his second season, but those plans quickly faded as he was hampered by injury and health issues, which caused him to miss many games.The following season, he was hospitalized with ulcerative colitis and found out eventually that he would need his colon completely removed in order to remain problem free. Wagner took on an extensive rehab program, which in turn led him to a heroic comeback during the '06-'07 season, in which he played for the Golden State Warriors.Wagner's NBA comeback was short lived, as two months into his new contract with the Warriors, they decided to buy him out. He took his game overseas, and will look to one day return to the NBA as a prominent and gifted scorer.?3. Marcus HaislipThe 6'10" forward was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks out of the University of Tennessee with the 13th and final lottery pick. Haislip was looked at as a change of pace forward who could slide inside for buckets as well as shoot it from mid-range. However, he did neither of those in his two marginal seasons with Milwaukee, as he failed to gain a rotation spot, which led to limited minutes (11 per game) and production (four points per game) and led to him being traded to Indiana for a season before heading overseas to work on his game.In 2009, he resurrected his NBA career and signed with San Antonio but quickly fell victim to the same inconsistency as during his rookie campaign. He ultimately decided to buy out his contract and return to Europe, thus ending his ride to NBA stardom.?Runners-UpJay WilliamsThe Duke guard came in with high expectations and delivered solid results in his rookie after being chosen second overall by the Chicago Bulls, as he averaged 9.5 points per game along with 4.7 assists and was on his way to becoming a focal point of the franchise for years to come.On June 19, 2003 he severely injured himself in a motorcycle accident in which he tore his ACL along with two other ligaments in his leg, coupled with severing a main vain in his leg and fracturing his pelvis.Williams went through extensive therapy, in which he briefly tried a comeback with the New Jersey Nets in 2006, but was unable to fully return to form, thus ending his promising career. This led to Williams entering the broadcasting world for college basketball.??Qyntel Woods The JUCO sensation, who often was compared to Tracy McGrady coming in to the league, was selected 21st overall by the Portland Trail Blazers.Woods never lived up to comparison (career average of six points per game) and only lasted two seasons in Portland, where he was known more for his ability to stay in trouble than on court performances (dogfighting Detroit Lions
and drug charges). He was then traded to Miami but didn't play much, leading to a final stint in New York, where he played better, but again allowed off court trouble to derail his career.Woods has since returned to Europe, and he is playing in Poland.?Ryan HumphryDrafted 19th overall out of University of Notre Dame, Humphry was quickly traded by the Utah Jazz on draft night to the Orlando Magic. Orlando, in turn, gave up on him halfway through his rookie season, and was then shipped to the Memphis Grizzlies where he played for the next two seasons before departing for a career in Europe.?Look for Part Two tomorrow afternoon as I continue the journey through the biggest busts of each NBA Draft this decade. Please feel free to leave comments and suggestions, as they are always welcome.
second season in the NBA that he showed what he was capable of when he had career highs in points (12), rebounds (six), and blocks (1.7). It didn't last long, though, as his low basketball IQ and limited work ethic cost him a solid career in the league, as he was traded four times before falling out of the league for good in the '08-'09 season.?2. Jerome MoisoThe 11th-overall pick by the Celtics was touted as a defensive stopper coming out of UCLA, but the Celtics quickly realized that they had made a mistake as he had no offensive game to speak of, and they traded him after his first season in the league.He played sparingly for Charlotte and Toronto before going overseas. He holds career averages of 2.7 points per game and 2.7 rebounds per game.?3. DerMarr JohnsonThe sixth pick by Atlanta was supposed to be an energizer who could score in bunches, as he was an electric showman as a freshman at the University of Cincinnati.? The Hawks quickly realized they had a role player rather than a sure starter, as he posted limited numbers his first two seasons there (averaged a career high 8.4 points in '01-'02).Tragedy struck in his third season, as he was involved in a horrific car crash in which he broke his neck, causing him to miss all of the '02-'03 season. He made a miraculous comeback the following season but was not the same player, although he managed to play a limited role for the Denver Nuggets for three seasons and one unproductive one in '07-'08 for San Antonio before heading overseas into obscurity.?Runners-UpCourtney AlexanderPicked 13th overall out of Fresno State University after leading the nation in scoring, he failed to live up to expectations and quickly found his way out of the league due to knee injuries.Alexander never could stay healthy enough to become productive on a regular basis, and lasted only three seasons, but was able to show a glimpse of talented scoring during his time with the Washington Wizards (17 points per game) and ended his NBA stint averaging nine points per game.??Darius MilesMiles was left off, as he was fifth on my list of busts for this draft. As the third-overall pick, he managed a decent career, though he was constantly plagued by injury. He made a brief comeback with Memphis two seasons ago but again failed to shy away from injury.?Erick BarkleyThe St. John's University product failed to meet his over-hyped expectations, as he was drafted late in the first round by the Portland Trail Blazers, and they quickly realized the potential didn't match the hype for the undersized and marginal skilled guard, thus giving up on him after only two seasons. He has since returned to Europe.?20011. Kwame BrownKwame was a highly-touted player out of Glynn Academy High School and was the first overall selection and first draft pick selected by then-GM Michael Jordan. Brown was touted for his ability to score and rebound well, despite having small hands and a questionable work ethic coming in.Brown showed limited flashes his first season on the court (averaging 4.5 points and three boards a game) and was quickly exposed as a weak defender with a low basketball IQ—one who possessed marginal post skills and who would rather shoot mid-range jumpers than bang inside.Brown endured a lot of media criticism throughout his time in Washington Dallas Cowboys jersey
but was able to put together a promising line in his third season (11 points and seven rebounds) but again faded into the darkness and soon was shipped off to the Lakers where he was marginal at best again. Still in the league, Brown is now on his fourth team (Detroit) and is a regular staple who is glued to the bench during games.?2. Rodney WhiteWhite was selected ninth overall by the Detroit Pistons, as he was touted as an athletic scorer who played only one season at UNC-Charlotte before declaring. However, he quickly was exposed for his bad defense, questionable attitude, and lackluster work ethic, soon falling out of favor with then-head coach Rick Carlisle.He often sat on the bench (only scoring 3.5 points per game in 16 games) and did nothing to work himself in the rotation which then led to a trade to Denver in which he posted solid scoring numbers (nine points per game) but again displayed attitude problems and a lack of commitment on defense. He was subsequently traded after four seasons to Golden State, in which he failed to catch on again, leading to his release and a career overseas.?3. Omar CookThe prime example of a player who listened to the hype and declared way too early. Coming out of St. John's University, Cook was hyped as a quick point guard who was the best passer in college basketball (led nation in assists and broke the St. John's record for assists in a game with 17) but one who needed to work on his inconsistent jumper.Cook waited until the second round before hearing his name called.? He was devastated as he was picked by the Orlando Magic, but quickly traded to the Denver Nuggets, in which he was quickly cut due to his inability to hit a jump shot and turnover ratio.Cook found spot time with the Portland Trail Blazers (appearing in 17 games) and Toronto Raptors (five games) before again falling out of the league, in which he paved his way to a successful career over in Europe where he is one of the premier guards in the Spanish ACB League.??Runners-UpKedrick BrownBrown was a JUCO player who displayed a keen ability to score well and displayed freakish athleticism which garnered the attention of the Boston Celtics who selected him 11th overall.Brown showed little in his time with the Celtics, as he was prone to defensive mistakes and showed little work ethic. He soon took his game to the NBDL where he enjoyed success, but more recently returned to Turkey to complete his quest to one day return to the league.?Eddie GriffinEddie displayed much promise coming out of Seton Hall University as he was drafted seventh overall by the Nets and quickly traded to the Rockets.Eddie put up good numbers in his first two seasons (nine points per games, six rebounds per game, and over a block per game) but could not limit his drinking problem. This continued to cause trouble for his career and eventually took his life in August 2007, as he drove in to a moving train, thus ending his much-hyped and heralded career, leaving the question: If not for his addiction, where would his potential have taken him??Kirk Haston"The Machine" out of Indiana University was drafted 16th overall by the Hornets, in which he was touted as a quality scorer due to his patent "sky hook" and solid mid-range game.Haston quickly realized the speed of the game was far too Denver Broncos jersey
fast, and he was no longer an effective shooter (28 percent field goal percentage) and quickly found his career over due to knee injuries. He has since retired after only three NBA seasons.?20021. Nikoloz TskitishviliThe European sharpshooter drafted fifth overall by the Denver Nuggets was nowhere near the player they thought they were drafting. Nikoloz was quickly punished for his lack of defense and average jump shot (30 percent from the field and 23 percent from three-point-territory for his career).Nikoloz was able to latch on with former Euro coach Mike D'Antoni in Phoenix for his final stop in the NBA, but did nothing to prove his Bust Label, and has since returned to Europe, where he again is outmatched overall.?2. Dajuan WagnerThe highly touted phenom out of the University of Memphis was drafted sixth overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers to score buckets at a quick rate.? He excelled despite his low shooting percentages (he averaged 13 points on 37 percent shooting during his rookie year).Wagner showed flashes of untapped potential and was envisioned to make quite the backcourt tandem with LeBron James during his second season, but those plans quickly faded as he was hampered by injury and health issues, which caused him to miss many games.The following season, he was hospitalized with ulcerative colitis and found out eventually that he would need his colon completely removed in order to remain problem free. Wagner took on an extensive rehab program, which in turn led him to a heroic comeback during the '06-'07 season, in which he played for the Golden State Warriors.Wagner's NBA comeback was short lived, as two months into his new contract with the Warriors, they decided to buy him out. He took his game overseas, and will look to one day return to the NBA as a prominent and gifted scorer.?3. Marcus HaislipThe 6'10" forward was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks out of the University of Tennessee with the 13th and final lottery pick. Haislip was looked at as a change of pace forward who could slide inside for buckets as well as shoot it from mid-range. However, he did neither of those in his two marginal seasons with Milwaukee, as he failed to gain a rotation spot, which led to limited minutes (11 per game) and production (four points per game) and led to him being traded to Indiana for a season before heading overseas to work on his game.In 2009, he resurrected his NBA career and signed with San Antonio but quickly fell victim to the same inconsistency as during his rookie campaign. He ultimately decided to buy out his contract and return to Europe, thus ending his ride to NBA stardom.?Runners-UpJay WilliamsThe Duke guard came in with high expectations and delivered solid results in his rookie after being chosen second overall by the Chicago Bulls, as he averaged 9.5 points per game along with 4.7 assists and was on his way to becoming a focal point of the franchise for years to come.On June 19, 2003 he severely injured himself in a motorcycle accident in which he tore his ACL along with two other ligaments in his leg, coupled with severing a main vain in his leg and fracturing his pelvis.Williams went through extensive therapy, in which he briefly tried a comeback with the New Jersey Nets in 2006, but was unable to fully return to form, thus ending his promising career. This led to Williams entering the broadcasting world for college basketball.??Qyntel Woods The JUCO sensation, who often was compared to Tracy McGrady coming in to the league, was selected 21st overall by the Portland Trail Blazers.Woods never lived up to comparison (career average of six points per game) and only lasted two seasons in Portland, where he was known more for his ability to stay in trouble than on court performances (dogfighting Detroit Lions
and drug charges). He was then traded to Miami but didn't play much, leading to a final stint in New York, where he played better, but again allowed off court trouble to derail his career.Woods has since returned to Europe, and he is playing in Poland.?Ryan HumphryDrafted 19th overall out of University of Notre Dame, Humphry was quickly traded by the Utah Jazz on draft night to the Orlando Magic. Orlando, in turn, gave up on him halfway through his rookie season, and was then shipped to the Memphis Grizzlies where he played for the next two seasons before departing for a career in Europe.?Look for Part Two tomorrow afternoon as I continue the journey through the biggest busts of each NBA Draft this decade. Please feel free to leave comments and suggestions, as they are always welcome.
2011年1月8日星期六
8 Jan 11 NBA Friday Key Games Preview
Elsa/Getty ImagesThis Friday with all of the March Madness Brackets finding their way to the trash bins around the country, the NBA has a full slate of action. With playoff spots and favorable seedings at stake, the drama will be high not only in college basketball this weekend, but in the pro as well.Friday Key GamesUtah Jazz (44-24, 4th in Western Conference) @ Phoenix Suns (42-26, 6th in Western Conference)Sportsbook: NBA Odds (*lines are approximations as they have not been posted at the time of writing.)Spread: Phoenix -Denver Broncos jersey
2Over/Under: 225Money Line: Phoenix -130, Utah +110The Jazz and Suns meet with a possibility that this game will foreshadow a first round playoff matchup. PG Deron Williams and PF Carlos Boozer have outplayed PG Steve Nash and PF Amare Stoudamire significantly in their two wins over the Suns earlier this season. Both teams are coming into the game 7-3 in their last ten games and are playing their best ball at the right time of the season.The Suns are renowned for not playing defense and trying to outscore teams. The Jazz can score with anybody and the Suns particular style of play eats right into the hands of the Jazz. Nash has 11 turnovers in the two losses to Utah this year and Boozer has outrebounded Stoudamire 35- 12. Those numbers spell disaster and will again in Phoenix on Friday.Final: Utah 124 - Phoenix 117Boston Celtics (43-24, t-3rd in Eastern Conference) @ Houston Rockets (35-31, 9th in Western Conference)Bookmaker Review (*lines approximated)Spread: Boston -4.5Over/Under: 209Money Line: Boston -175, Detroit Lions
Houston +150The Houston Rockets sit 4.5 games behind Portland for the last playoff spot in the Western Conference. They can afford to lose too many games with only 14 left in the season. Boston and the aging Big Three of Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and Paul Pierce stand in their way. Sitting in a tie for third in the East with the young Atlanta Hawks, the Celtics have had trouble losing to playoff teams (lost to Milwaukee, Memphis and Cleveland in the past two weeks) while handling the non-playoff teams (Washington, Indiana, New York and Detroit). The interesting question is how they will handle a fringe playoff team like Houston. The Rockets have not been playing like a team that wants to watch the playoffs from the comforts of a sofa and are 7-3 in their last 10 with wins over Denver and Memphis earlier in the week. Luis Scola has come alive for Houston and is averaging 26 points and 11 rebounds in his last five games. Aaron Brooks has been better than his season averages and has 23.8 points and 5.8 assists per that same time span. Green Bay Packers jersey
Boston looks disinterested at times on the boards and the athleticism of Garnett with his knee is a shell of what he once was. Scola will have to hear plenty of trash-talking, but right now he is a better player and will lead the Rockets to a big victory over a likely one and done in the playoffs.Final: Houston 108 Boston 101. Take Houston +150Two-Team Parlay: Rockets, Jazz on the money line. (*also check out our March Madness Odds)
2Over/Under: 225Money Line: Phoenix -130, Utah +110The Jazz and Suns meet with a possibility that this game will foreshadow a first round playoff matchup. PG Deron Williams and PF Carlos Boozer have outplayed PG Steve Nash and PF Amare Stoudamire significantly in their two wins over the Suns earlier this season. Both teams are coming into the game 7-3 in their last ten games and are playing their best ball at the right time of the season.The Suns are renowned for not playing defense and trying to outscore teams. The Jazz can score with anybody and the Suns particular style of play eats right into the hands of the Jazz. Nash has 11 turnovers in the two losses to Utah this year and Boozer has outrebounded Stoudamire 35- 12. Those numbers spell disaster and will again in Phoenix on Friday.Final: Utah 124 - Phoenix 117Boston Celtics (43-24, t-3rd in Eastern Conference) @ Houston Rockets (35-31, 9th in Western Conference)Bookmaker Review (*lines approximated)Spread: Boston -4.5Over/Under: 209Money Line: Boston -175, Detroit Lions
Houston +150The Houston Rockets sit 4.5 games behind Portland for the last playoff spot in the Western Conference. They can afford to lose too many games with only 14 left in the season. Boston and the aging Big Three of Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and Paul Pierce stand in their way. Sitting in a tie for third in the East with the young Atlanta Hawks, the Celtics have had trouble losing to playoff teams (lost to Milwaukee, Memphis and Cleveland in the past two weeks) while handling the non-playoff teams (Washington, Indiana, New York and Detroit). The interesting question is how they will handle a fringe playoff team like Houston. The Rockets have not been playing like a team that wants to watch the playoffs from the comforts of a sofa and are 7-3 in their last 10 with wins over Denver and Memphis earlier in the week. Luis Scola has come alive for Houston and is averaging 26 points and 11 rebounds in his last five games. Aaron Brooks has been better than his season averages and has 23.8 points and 5.8 assists per that same time span. Green Bay Packers jersey
Boston looks disinterested at times on the boards and the athleticism of Garnett with his knee is a shell of what he once was. Scola will have to hear plenty of trash-talking, but right now he is a better player and will lead the Rockets to a big victory over a likely one and done in the playoffs.Final: Houston 108 Boston 101. Take Houston +150Two-Team Parlay: Rockets, Jazz on the money line. (*also check out our March Madness Odds)
2010年12月30日星期四
30 Dec 10 The 2010 NBA Draft and the New Jersey Nets' Free Agent Plans
Chris Graythen/Getty ImagesBreak out the champagne: the Nets are not the worst team ever!!!With their 10th win, the Nets have avoided infamy as the worst team in NBA history. Instead they will merely be known as one of the worst teams.The good news is that the Nets have a lot of young players. The bad news is that only Brook Lopez was healthy and consistent this year.Despite the horrible season, the Nets are actually in great shape for the future. They have a new owner in Russian billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov, who is a true lover of basketball and has a history of success as an owner of a professional basketball franchise.Just ask any Knicks fan how much good or bad ownership matters. Virtually every Knicks fan that I know wishes that Prokhorov had bought the Knicks and not Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
the Nets.The Nets are moving to Newark. This is a very underrated move.The Izod Center is a nice place to watch a game or a concert, but it is in the middle of nowhere as far as people go. As such, it was very hard to build a hardcore fan base that would give the Nets a home court advantage. Even when they were winning, they did not regularly sell out.Newark, on the other hand, is a rising city. It just had its first month without a murder since 1966 . It is now a city of commerce with a lot of public transportation options. The Nets should be able to draw more fans, and the Prudential Center is a great place to watch a game. For the first time ever, the Nets might have a real home court advantage.As a New Jersey native, it will be sad when the Nets move to Brooklyn, but that will only help the team itself. Brooklyn will love having its own team. The new arena will not only be built above a subway station, but also above a Long Island Railroad station, so the Nets will be able to tap into not only the Brooklyn market, but the Long Island one as well.Financially, the Nets may finally be ready to compete, but what about the most important part: the players. The Nets will have about $23 million in cap space to spend this year. The real question is, how are they going to use it?The Nets have a center who can score, rebound and block shots. No team has won a NBA title without an all-star caliber big man. Even the Jordan teams had Horace Grant and then Dennis Rodman. Having a quality player like Brook Lopez is a great place to start building a team.It is the rest of the team that needs work. That is why the draft will control free agency. The Nets are guaranteed to have one of the top four picks in the draft. That means either John Wall, Evan Turner, Derrick Favors or DeMarcus Cousins will be in the Nets starting lineup next year.So, based on the pick, here are possible free agent targets. I am going to assume that LeBron James is not going to sign with the Nets because the Nets would not be able to compete for a title next year.John Wall strikes me as the next Jason Kidd. He can get anywhere on the court, has great vision, prefers to pass, plays defense, can score in the clutch and is creative.However, he turns the ball over too much and he is not Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
a good long range shooter, but both of these can be improved through game experience and practice. He is going to be a great player as long as he stays healthy.So, if the Nets get Wall, then what happens?The Nets should then target two players. First, they should try and sign Amare Stoudemire. Amare is healthy and can score in a variety of ways. He can play center but is best at the power forward position. He already plays well with Robin Lopez so there is no reason to think that he wouldn't fit nicely with Brook. A front line of Lopez and Stoudemire immediately becomes the best center and power forward combo in the Eastern Conference.A quality fall back option would be Carlos Boozer. Boozer is not as good a scoreralthough he is very goodbut he is the superior rebounder. With Boozer, the Nets would win the battle of the boards on most nights. Plus, he is very good at running the pick and roll, a staple of NBA offenses.However, with Wall the Nets would no longer need Devin Harris. Harris is a very good player but his style of play and body build has left him vulnerable to injury. The Nets could also try to sign Rudy Gay to a max contract and use Harris in a sign and trade.Memphis has two quality post players and a perimeter scorer in OJ Mayo. What they lack is a top notch point guard. Acquiring Harris for Rudy Gay is a reasonable swap. Plus, Memphis' owner is looking to sell the team and is not likely looking to pay Rudy Gay a max contract.Gay is a phenomenal scorer at the small forward position and has NBA size as well. Put Gay next to Stoudemire and Lopez and it would easily be the best front line in the East.This would leave the Nets with a rotation of Lopez, Stoudemire, Gay, Courtney Lee, Wall, Terrence Williams, Keyon Dooling and Yi Jianlian. Terrence Williams and Courtney Lee would fight it out to start at the shooting guard position. Instead of scorers, they'd be asked to act as secondary players focused on defense and passing, which better suit their abilitiesReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
.Dooling remains the quality backup point guard and Yi gets his minutes as the primary big man off the bench. That team would be a top 4 or 5 team in the East next year.That is the best case scenario and one that is possible.The next scenario involves Evan Turner. Turner is a natural small forward in the Scottie Pippen mold. He can rebound, pass and score in the lane. His jump shot isn't smooth, but it will improve with practice. However, he does have great court vision that can't be taught. He is a bigger and better version of Terrence Williams.With Turner on the roster, the Nets would keep Devin Harris as Turner starts at small forward. The Nets would still target Stoudemire or Boozer to turn a weak front court into a strength.The Nets would still need a pure shooter, though.The max contract for the new power forward will cost the Nets about $15 million. That leaves about $8 million for a shooter.Their best option is Al Harrington of the Knicks. Harrington can score in bunches and is a New Jersey native. He could be a sixth-man scorer when the offense bogs down. While he is primarily a small forward, he can also play the power forward spot when necessary.When Harrington plays, Turner would either sit or move to the shooting guard position. The Nets need more scoring and Harrington would be a great fit.The final option is if the Nets draft a big man like Favors or Cousins. This would eliminate the need to sign Stoudemire or Boozer. Instead, the Nets would need to go for a perimeter scorer.Rudy Gay is the best fit. The Nets can trade Memphis future draft picks, as the Nets would need to keep Harris in this scenario. If Memphis refused to trade Gay, or let him go as a free agent, the Nets will need a new target at small forward.In that case, the best options are the aforementioned Harrington or Travis Outlaw. Outlaw might be willing, but he would probably require a contract that is more than he's worth. He is not a team-changing player.But neither is Harrington.Harrington is Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
probably the better fit, as he would be less expensive and is a better scorer. Harrington would not make the Nets a contender, but he would help prevent a repeat of the disastrous 2009-10 season.So, Nets fans, the best hope for the Nets is to get one of the first two picks in the draft because that would enable the team to become a contender as soon as next year.
the Nets.The Nets are moving to Newark. This is a very underrated move.The Izod Center is a nice place to watch a game or a concert, but it is in the middle of nowhere as far as people go. As such, it was very hard to build a hardcore fan base that would give the Nets a home court advantage. Even when they were winning, they did not regularly sell out.Newark, on the other hand, is a rising city. It just had its first month without a murder since 1966 . It is now a city of commerce with a lot of public transportation options. The Nets should be able to draw more fans, and the Prudential Center is a great place to watch a game. For the first time ever, the Nets might have a real home court advantage.As a New Jersey native, it will be sad when the Nets move to Brooklyn, but that will only help the team itself. Brooklyn will love having its own team. The new arena will not only be built above a subway station, but also above a Long Island Railroad station, so the Nets will be able to tap into not only the Brooklyn market, but the Long Island one as well.Financially, the Nets may finally be ready to compete, but what about the most important part: the players. The Nets will have about $23 million in cap space to spend this year. The real question is, how are they going to use it?The Nets have a center who can score, rebound and block shots. No team has won a NBA title without an all-star caliber big man. Even the Jordan teams had Horace Grant and then Dennis Rodman. Having a quality player like Brook Lopez is a great place to start building a team.It is the rest of the team that needs work. That is why the draft will control free agency. The Nets are guaranteed to have one of the top four picks in the draft. That means either John Wall, Evan Turner, Derrick Favors or DeMarcus Cousins will be in the Nets starting lineup next year.So, based on the pick, here are possible free agent targets. I am going to assume that LeBron James is not going to sign with the Nets because the Nets would not be able to compete for a title next year.John Wall strikes me as the next Jason Kidd. He can get anywhere on the court, has great vision, prefers to pass, plays defense, can score in the clutch and is creative.However, he turns the ball over too much and he is not Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
a good long range shooter, but both of these can be improved through game experience and practice. He is going to be a great player as long as he stays healthy.So, if the Nets get Wall, then what happens?The Nets should then target two players. First, they should try and sign Amare Stoudemire. Amare is healthy and can score in a variety of ways. He can play center but is best at the power forward position. He already plays well with Robin Lopez so there is no reason to think that he wouldn't fit nicely with Brook. A front line of Lopez and Stoudemire immediately becomes the best center and power forward combo in the Eastern Conference.A quality fall back option would be Carlos Boozer. Boozer is not as good a scoreralthough he is very goodbut he is the superior rebounder. With Boozer, the Nets would win the battle of the boards on most nights. Plus, he is very good at running the pick and roll, a staple of NBA offenses.However, with Wall the Nets would no longer need Devin Harris. Harris is a very good player but his style of play and body build has left him vulnerable to injury. The Nets could also try to sign Rudy Gay to a max contract and use Harris in a sign and trade.Memphis has two quality post players and a perimeter scorer in OJ Mayo. What they lack is a top notch point guard. Acquiring Harris for Rudy Gay is a reasonable swap. Plus, Memphis' owner is looking to sell the team and is not likely looking to pay Rudy Gay a max contract.Gay is a phenomenal scorer at the small forward position and has NBA size as well. Put Gay next to Stoudemire and Lopez and it would easily be the best front line in the East.This would leave the Nets with a rotation of Lopez, Stoudemire, Gay, Courtney Lee, Wall, Terrence Williams, Keyon Dooling and Yi Jianlian. Terrence Williams and Courtney Lee would fight it out to start at the shooting guard position. Instead of scorers, they'd be asked to act as secondary players focused on defense and passing, which better suit their abilitiesReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
.Dooling remains the quality backup point guard and Yi gets his minutes as the primary big man off the bench. That team would be a top 4 or 5 team in the East next year.That is the best case scenario and one that is possible.The next scenario involves Evan Turner. Turner is a natural small forward in the Scottie Pippen mold. He can rebound, pass and score in the lane. His jump shot isn't smooth, but it will improve with practice. However, he does have great court vision that can't be taught. He is a bigger and better version of Terrence Williams.With Turner on the roster, the Nets would keep Devin Harris as Turner starts at small forward. The Nets would still target Stoudemire or Boozer to turn a weak front court into a strength.The Nets would still need a pure shooter, though.The max contract for the new power forward will cost the Nets about $15 million. That leaves about $8 million for a shooter.Their best option is Al Harrington of the Knicks. Harrington can score in bunches and is a New Jersey native. He could be a sixth-man scorer when the offense bogs down. While he is primarily a small forward, he can also play the power forward spot when necessary.When Harrington plays, Turner would either sit or move to the shooting guard position. The Nets need more scoring and Harrington would be a great fit.The final option is if the Nets draft a big man like Favors or Cousins. This would eliminate the need to sign Stoudemire or Boozer. Instead, the Nets would need to go for a perimeter scorer.Rudy Gay is the best fit. The Nets can trade Memphis future draft picks, as the Nets would need to keep Harris in this scenario. If Memphis refused to trade Gay, or let him go as a free agent, the Nets will need a new target at small forward.In that case, the best options are the aforementioned Harrington or Travis Outlaw. Outlaw might be willing, but he would probably require a contract that is more than he's worth. He is not a team-changing player.But neither is Harrington.Harrington is Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
probably the better fit, as he would be less expensive and is a better scorer. Harrington would not make the Nets a contender, but he would help prevent a repeat of the disastrous 2009-10 season.So, Nets fans, the best hope for the Nets is to get one of the first two picks in the draft because that would enable the team to become a contender as soon as next year.
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