Hickory , Dickory, Dock , The Mouse Ran Up The Clock , Tick, Tock, Tick, Tock ……….Time Is Now Ticking In The NBA ….

The NBA season has started off at its usual pace and a number of the teams are either beginning to separate themselves from amongst the pack or those with aspirations of making a name for themselves are surprising their fans , plaudits and pundits alike. That being said ‘controversy’ rears it ugly head with the actions of Washington Wizards’ players Gilbert Arenas and Javaris Crittenton . All that you need to know is that the Wizards’ front office as well as that of commissioner’s office have failed to act appropriately with regard to the actions of both players. Little needs to be said other than the fact that David Stern ‘no longer’ has any credibility whatsoever as the commissioner of the NBA. The same can be said of his ‘main enforcer’, Stu Jackson. As to the Wizards’ front office, their inaction only speaks to the ineptitude shown by the organization over the years.

Early season MVP candidates ? The Cavaliers' LeBron James, the Grizzlies' Zach Randolph and the perennial fan favorite , Kobe Bryant of the Lakers . picture appears courtesy of NBAE/ Getty Images ................

Courtesy of NBA.com

Reeling Wizards brace for fallout from Arenas incident

By David Aldridge

So, you want to hear about how Tim Duncan’s back on track this season?

Didn’t think so.
The Big Fundamental’s renaissance, like a lot of other interesting developments in the league this week (from the latest on Tracy McGrady, to Kobe’s latest incredible game-winner, to KG’s knee) has taken a back seat to a ridiculous problem for the Wizards, all Gilbert Arenas’ doing — and one that will surely cost him money and games when either the Washington, D.C. and/or federal authorities, and/or David J. Stern are done with him.

On Saturday, in front of assembled reporters following the Wizards’ loss to San Antonio, Arenas said he used “bad judgment” in the Dec. 21 incident with Javaris Crittenton in which, according to sources, both players had their hands on guns in Washington’s locker room — though it is not clear that they pointed them at one another, as the New York Post has reported.
Former Wizards beat writer Mike Jones, on his blog, and the Washington Post’s Michael Lee both reported that a frustrated Crittenton threw one of Arenas’ guns across the locker room after Arenas had laid out three guns near Crittenton’s locker and taunted him to pick one up. It was an extension of an argument that began between the two on the team’s plane from Phoenix Dec. 19, when a source told me that Arenas failed to pay a $25,000 debt to Crittenton. (Jones says the amount wasn’t $25,000, and was owed not to Crittenton, but to another teammate: Javale McGee.)
No one disputes that Arenas brought three guns, which were unloaded, to the locker room from his Virginia home. He said he brought them to work because he no longer wanted them in his home with three children around. But it nonetheless was a violation of the NBA’s constitution, which specifically prohibits bringing weapons to team facilities. In addition, Arenas had not registered the guns in the District of Columbia, where Verizon Center is located.
“I take responsibility,” Arenas said. “If I have to deal with the police, the investigation, the DAs, that’s what I have to deal with. I have to deal with that on Monday. I’ve got to put it in their hands, tell the story, and then see what they say.”

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Boston Celtics' Rasheed Wallace (30) yells as he celebrates with teammates Kendrick Perkins (43) and Ray Allen after dunking the ball as Toronto Raptors' Jarrett Jack (1) looks on during the second half of an NBA basketball game Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010, in Boston. The Celtics beat the Raptors, 103-96. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Mary Schwalm ......

While no real light needs to be shed on the action of both players, other than to suggest that the image that the game strives to exude isn’t helped by the stupidity shown by Arenas and Crittenton by this incident. The ramifications of which could’ve been far more serious had either of them discharged their weapons. But then again we should be thankful that they didn’t self a wound upon their person, or should we ? Think Plaxico Burress and his ‘idiotic antics’. A lesson well served as to the reason why guns shouldn’t be placed in the hands of individuals who have no use for them , other than in the case of Arenas, Burress and Crittenton to make themselves look like complete morons.

Cleveland January 3rd , J.J. Hickson (#21) of the Cleveland Cavaliers dunks the ball as teammate Shaquille O'Neal (#33) and Nazr Mohammed (#13) of the Charlotte Bobcats look on on January 3, 2010 at The Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/ Getty Images/ David Liam Kayle .....

In the Eastern Conference the usual suspects are striving for supremacy. And there isn’t a great deal to choose from the triumvirate of the Boston Celtics (24-8), Cleveland Cavaliers (27-9) , Orlando Magic (24-9) and certainly new to the bunch, the rather surprising Atlanta Hawks (21-12). And if you think that the Hawks’ fans aren’t surprised just think as to what this must be doing to the mindset of TNT tv on air analyst, Charles Barkley ? What sound bytes will he be looking to use, to describe the play of the Atlanta Hawks ? Cause as we know ‘Sir Charles’ has never been one to hold things back.

Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls and the Orlando Magic’s Dwight Howard look to contest a loose ball during the game played at the United Center , Chicago, Illinois. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/ Getty Images/ Randy Belice ….

The triumvirate mentioned all lead their divisions with some room to spare. But once again it looks like the Celtics may well be without their most pivotal player in, Kevin Garnett. Age and recurring injuries seem to be catching up fast, with the seasoned veteran. And without him at the helm it appears that they’re not the threat many would believe them to be. Albeit that point guard, Rajon Rondo seems to have raised the level of his play and all-round game. So much so , that this is no longer about the ‘Big Three’ of Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. But you could perhaps now add Rondo into the mix. Never mind the fact that Rasheed Wallace has now been added to this deeply talented Celtics’ roster. And for Celtics’ coach Doc River he must feel like he’s been blessed with an abundance of talent. But I guess it can’t be done without their veteran leader to guide them and guide as they embark on returning to the NBA Finals. But that’d be predicated upon them overcoming the likes of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Orlando Magic.

The Cleveland Cavaliers for their part, in addition to LeBron James have added 15 time NBA All Star center, Shaquille O’Neal to their roster. And this is being done in the hopes that the combination of James and O’Neil can clear the obstacle of making to another NBA Finals and raising the Larry O’Brien trophy to signify them as world champions. Last season’s bittersweet loss to the Magic in the Eastern Conference semi finals was a sour note for the franchise. And for their coach Mike Brown it was a tremendous disappointment. Nevertheless , the team is expected to contend for postseason honors come what may. And if anything O’Neal has something to prove , while LeBron finally wants to show NBA world that he can land the ‘Big One’.

Kryptonite they say is the only thing that makes Superman susceptible and not impervious to defeat. In the case of the Orlando Magic’s Dwight Howard, it is his arrogance and lack of maturity, despite his years in the league. This time around there’s nowhere for Howard to hide should the Magic fail in their quest to return to the Finals and redeem themselves from their lopsided series’ loss to the Los Angeles Lakers (4-1). The team performed nowhere near as expected and that was despite their thrilling series’ wins against the Cavaliers and Celtics on their way to last season’s NBA Finals. Stan Van Gundy as their coach , squealed ,squawked , cajoled and with the all of the usual animation you’d come to expect of a cartoon character could not get this Magic team to raise the level of their play as and when needed to stem the tide or play of the Lakers, or for that matter, Kobe Bryant, the Finals’ MVP.

The Western Conference it seems is replete with talent as well teams on a mission. The defending champions , the Los Angeles Lakers are off to a fast start and they possess the best record in the NBA ,with a 27-6 mark. And it’s safe to say that Kobe Bryant alongside his teammates are eager to successfully defend their NBA title. At the same time it gives Lakers’ coach, Phil Jackson a further chance to distance himself record’s wise, from the achievements of Red Auerbach. And one seriously doubts that we’ll ever see another coach replicate Jackson’s feats as an NBA coach.

Los Angeles 3rd 2010. Kobe Bryant (#24) of the Los Angeles Lakers makes a pass around Dirk Nowitzki (#41) of the Dallas Mavericks at Staples Center on January 3, 2010 in Los Angeles, California. The Lakers would go on to defeat the Mavericks 131-96. picture appears courtesy of NBAE/ Getty Images / Andrew D Bernstein ............

With the loss of Trevor Ariza to free agency, the Lakers would acquire Ron Artest. Curiously enough, as Artest would join the Lakers , Ariza did likewise by joining the Houston Rockets</a, Artest's former team. And it’d appear that the Lakers have yet to miss a beat. With Artest in tow to provided some stout defense as well as being the third or fourth scoring option for the team. One would find it hard not to resist placing a wager on the Los Angeles Lakers. With Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, Kobe Bryant and Andrew Bynum all having that confidence about them. The Lakers are deemed the team to beat in the Western Conference. That’s not to say this is a one man show within the conference. The Denver Nuggets (21-13), Portland Trailblazers (22-14), Oklahoma City Thunder (19-15), aPhoenix Suns (21-13), Dallas Mavericks (23-11) and the San Antonio Spurs (20-12). Each of these teams are looking to take down the Lakers a notch or two. As to whether or not they are capable of it remains to be seen. But so contentious is the Western Conference that it has become a conference wherein the bloodletting once it starts just doesn’t seem to stop. Russell Crowe’s character, Maximus from the movie ‘Gladiator’ would feel at home with the barbarity that ensues within the conference. The bloodletting itself seems to have the fans of the teams in awe. As to the bragging rights. Well, let’s just say ’til you knock the champion of his pedestal, the bragging rights still belong to him.

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant, right, drives on Chicago Bulls guard James Johnson during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Jan. 4, 2010, in Chicago. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Charles Rex Arbogast .......

To my mind the most surprising team in the Western Conference at present may well be the Oklahoma City Thunder. And night in, night out , Kevin Durant never ceases to amaze us all with his play , nor his phenomenal offensive prowess. Here’s a guy who looks less than 120 lbs ringing wet but plays with the heart of a lion and has the ‘killer instinct’ of a cold hearted assassin. Need one say, that he’s now beginning to make people think less and less about how god-damn awful the Seattle Supersonics use to be- the Thunder’s previous guise as an NBA franchise. Needless to say that when you’ve a team of complementary parts then things that come to fruition tend to be really good. And in Scott Brooks, the Thunder may well have one of the most unassuming coaches in the entire NBA. If there’s a more unassuming coach in the NBA that you know then let me know about him.

The usual cacophony of teams who all want to be a part of the postseason drama within the conference are as always many of the better managed teams. And with ‘Mr Fundamental’ back to his usual best , the thought is that Tim Duncan and his Spurs’ teammates are ready to assume the mantel as the Lakers most dangerous opponents. Now that’s not to say that the likes of the Nuggets, Suns , Mavericks, Thunder and Trailblazers won’t be a reliable source of drama throughout the regular and postseason. Suffice to say that with all of the bloods and guts that’ll be spilled. Whatever’s left from the carnage more likely than not will have to be viewed as the prohibitive favorites to win the NBA title. I know that there’ll be some derision those who are fans of the Eastern Conference of the NBA. But if the lack of real effort shown by last season’s conference representative is anything to go by. Then whomever comes out of the conference to face the Western representative is liable to get more of the same. How much more is dependent upon the resistance that team is able to put up.

So as of now, the clock is ticking on the NBA season and how things will pan out as the season unfolds. We all know smart a mouse can be as he’s being chased by the cat. But we also know how the guile of a cat can be and the dangers that lie within when the cat has his prey trapped. So which is it to be for the Los Angeles Lakers this season ? Are they going to be the mouse who evades capture from the chasing cat , as in the rest of the NBA ? Or will they be the mouse who gets caught by its erstwhile predator the cat, who’ll no doubt devour its prey ? What are your thoughts on it all ?

A classic ‘Tom & Jerry’ cartoon and the usual staple of classic mayhem ensues that the characters were always known for. Much like what we’ll no doubt see throughout much of the NBA regular season and also in the playoffs.

NB This original piece was posted within tophatal1′s blog. To read more of work within that site just click here to view and peruse the site in question.

Alan Parkins aka tophatal

The Basketball Oracle Power Rankings: Edition #1

Unfortunately we weren’t very active for the first couple of weeks of the season, but now we are back and here are the first batch of Power Rankings!

The Ron Artest Effect

Last season, the Lakers were a fairly mediocre defensive team.  They would constantly be scoring and allowing over 100 points a game while usually playing respectable defense the other teams’ best player, but allowing a role player to have a career night.  But with the addition of Ron Artest, the Lakers are #1 in opponent FG% and opponent 3P FG% this season, while allowing teams to score only 96 points a game while playing at a fast pace.  The main reason for this is the addition of Ron Artest, with a little credit going to the return of Andrew Bynum.  Artest has been one of the best one-on-one defenders ever in his career, and this season is bringing a defensive intensity to the usually offensive-minded Los Angeles Lakers.  Ron Artest has shut down every star player the Lakers have gone against this season, other than Carmelo Anthony, but that should change the next time they face off against the Nuggets.  Artests’ defense is one of the key factors as to why the Lakers are #1 in the power rankings of many websites.

Rank	Team	Record	Description
1	Los Angeles Lakers	12-3	The Lakers have been cruising as of late, and should continue for at least another week or two with their easy, home-loaded schedule.
2	Orlando Magic	13-4	The Magic earned the #2 spot with a Turkey Day blowout of the former #1 seeded Hawks in Atlanta.
3	Phoenix Suns	13-3	The Suns have been the surprise team this season with the best record in the NBA, but they lost badly to the Hawks and Lakers, and probably won’t be able to keep this excellent play up for the remainder of the season.
4	Atlanta Hawks	12-4	The Hawks were another surprise team this season, but a bad loss to the Magic puts them right back below the Celtics and Magic in the standings.  Though, they did have an impressive win in Boston.
5	Boston Celtics	12-4	Struggling early this season, but should turn it around soon and be back at the top of the East in a 3-horse race with the Lakers and Magic for best record.
6	Denver Nuggets	12-4	The Nuggets proved they are a contender with their blowout of the Lakers in Denver, but they have had an extremely easy schedule, as well as the easiest 5-game stretch in NBA history (New Jersey, @ Minnesota, New York, Minnesota, Golden State).
7	San Antonio Spurs	8-6	The Spurs started off the season badly, but have caught fire the past week and are riding a 4-game winning streak.
8	Cleveland Cavaliers	12-5	The Cavaliers are disappointing this season, and it appears that Shaquille O’Neal is not a good fit for them.  They need a Chris Bosh or David West to win a ring for the king.
9	Dallas Mavericks	12-5	The Mavericks have had impressive wins this season, but they need to consistently be able to beat good teams.
10	Portland Trailblazers	12-7	Same problem as the Mavericks.
11	Miami Heat	9-6	An impressive win of the Magic, and a disappointing loss to the Wizards.
12	Oklahoma City Thunder	9-7	The Thunder have been very good this season (for their standards) and have an above .500 record, but don’t expect it to be that way at the end of the season.
13	Utah Jazz	9-7	The Jazz are consistently inconsistent.
14	Charlotte Bobcats	7-9	The Bobcats have been a fantastic defensive team this season, but they just can’t get enough points on the offensive end.  They need a 25+ ppg scorer in order to have any chance in the playoffs.
15	New Orleans Hornets	7-9	The Hornets are 4-3 under new head coach Jeff Bower, but expect that number to increase once Chris Paul is back.
16	Sacramento Kings	7-8	The Sacramento Kings are a legitimate Top 16 team for the first time in a long time.  Impressive at home with a 6-2 record, but terrible on the road with a 1-6 record.
17	Milwaukee Bucks	8-7	The Bucks started out the season as one of the top teams with an 8-3 record, but since then they have only lost.
18	Chicago Bulls	6-8	The Bulls are on a bad 4-game slide due to a tough West coast trip.
19	Houston Rockets	8-8	Started off the season strong, but have faltered lately.
20	Indiana Pacers	6-8	The Pacers need to make some major changes, because no matter how good Danny Granger gets, they will never go past the 1st round.
21	Toronto Raptors	7-10	The Raptors start out every season expected to be a top team with a strong core of Chris Bosh, Jose Calderon, Andrea Bargnani, and Jermaine O’Neal/Hedo Turkoglu, but every season they disappoint.
22	Memphis Grizzlies	6-10	The Iverson experiment failed badly, but at least now they can give more minutes to young soon-to-be stars OJ Mayo and Mike Conley.
23	L.A. Clippers	7-10	They beat the Detroit Pistons, big deal?
24	Washington Wizards	5-10	Gilbert Arenas + Antawn Jamison + Mike Miller + Caron Butler = 5 wins and 10 losses? At least they have beaten the Cavaliers.
25	Golden State Warriors	5-10	The Warriors are banged up right now, so you can’t expect them to be able to win games.
26	Philadelphia 76ers	5-11	How bad are they playing right now? Well, they are the one team in the league that really SHOULD sign Allen Iverson.  They’re in trouble.
27	Detroit Pistons	5-11	Of the 28 teams in the NBA, they have the longest losing streak at 7 games.  In case you didn’t know, the Timberwolves and Nets were officially merged into the D-League last night.
28	New York Knicks	3-13	The worst team in the league right now.
29	Minnesota Timberwolves	1-15	Well, they are #1 in my D-League power rankings.
30	New Jersey Nets	0-16	Well, they are #2 in my D-League power rankings.

The Basketball Oracle Top 10: Centers

The Center position in basketball is the arguably the most important and dominant, but it is also the weakest in the current NBA.  In the NBA today, there are very few dominant low-post scorers at the center position.  In fact, the majority of the star low post players like Zach Randolph, Pau Gasol, Tim Duncan, and Al Jefferson are Power Forwards.  It can be argued that the only pure dominant low-post center in the NBA right now is the 22-year old Andrew Bynum of the Los Angeles Lakers.  Now, time for the actual rankings.  Yao Ming has been excluded due to his injury.

Just Missed Out: Andris Biedrins, Golden State Warriors; Kenrick Perkins, Boston Celtics

10. Greg Oden, Portland Trailblazers

Oden gets the nod of Kendrick Perkins and Andris Biedrins because he is a better scorer than both, and a better rebounder than Perkins.  Biedrins may have the advantage in rebounds, but that is because he plays on a team that shoots a lot and causes a lot of possessions.  Oden will probably never be an all-star, but he will most likely develop into a 14 ppg, 12 rpg, and 2 bpg guy.

9. Andrew Bogut, Milwaukee Bucks

Bogut is a solid NBA center, not a franchise player, and not a scrub.  He can rebound in double-digits every game, as well as scoring in double-digits every game.  He is like a slightly better Greg Oden because he is a superior rebounder and has a more polished offensive game.

8. Tyson Chandler, Charlotte Bobcats

Chandler isn’t as good without Chris Paul setting him up for alley-oops, but what puts him above the other centers is the fact that he is a solid rebounder, and is really athletic which gives him opportunities the other centers don’t have.  He still has not post-game, but he can still get offensive opportunities with alley-oops, the pick and roll, and putbacks.

7. Marc Gasol, Memphis Grizzlies

This may come as a surprise to most, but Gasol has proved that he can be a strong rebounder and scorer at the center position.  His offensive game is near the top in the league for centers, and he is also a great rebounder.  He isn’t as good as his brother, Pau, but he is creating his own name in the NBA as one of the top centers.

6. Emeka Okafor, New Orleans Hornets

Okafor was drafted 2nd overall behind Dwight Howard, but so far in the NBA he has not even come close to being as good as Dwight Howard.  But he has established himself has a guaranteed double-double every night.  He doesn’t have a lot of offensive moves, but he has a decent mid-range jumper and can score in the post better than most centers.

5. Shaquille O’Neal, Cleveland Cavaliers

Shaquille O’Neal may be old and slow, but he still has the ability to be a good low-post scorer and rebounder, as evidenced by his 08-09 season with the Phoenix Suns.  This season he is struggling with a new team and injuries, but if he can get in rythme and healthy he will be a good pickup for the Cavs, as long as he stays out of LeBron’s way.

4.  Brook Lopez, New Jersey Nets

Brook Lopez is only in his 2nd season in the NBA, and he hasn’t done anything special.  But, he has proved that he can be a consistent 14 ppg and 9 rpg guy in the NBA.  He also has a nice shooting touch and decent post-up game.  Lopez plays for the worst team in the league, which is part of the reason he doesn’t get any recognition, but he is the only big man they have that can produce on a consistent basis.  He will only continue to improve and should be a Top 3 center next season.

 3. Chris Kaman, Los Angeles Clippers

When healthy, Chris Kaman is one of the best offensive centers and rebounders in the league.  He has a solid mid-range jumper, and is a good low-post and high-post scorer.  Injuries have hindered him the last couple of seasons, but in the 07-08 season he averaged a very impressive 15.7 ppg and 12.7 rpg.

I Was A Contender But I Could’ve Been So Much More ……….

One can’t but help feel sorry for Lakers’ former assistant coach Kurt Rambis . They say ‘….. everyone’s deserving of a second bite of the apple’ . But in Kurt’s case that wasn’t about to be forthcoming , as far as the coaching position was, with the Los Angeles Lakers . Phil Jackson remains an irremovable force and not until he’s ready to finally call it quits. Will there be someone appointed by the organization to step into the fray and take over from the legendary coach.

Rambis seen here in his duties as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Lakers speaks with former player Chris Mihm. picture appears courtesy of los angeles times / Alex Gallardo .............

For Rambis , a titlist , as a player and as an assistant coach with the franchise where he made his name. He’s now agreed in principle to assume the reins from fired former coach, Kevin McHale of the Minnesota Timberwolves . And it’d remiss to suggest that Rambis hasn’t got his work cut out for him in trying to turn around the fortunes of a franchise , that has seemingly lost direction.

And for a franchise coming off a horrendous (24-58) season . Wherein, they were 34 games under .500 and finished 30 games behind the Northwest Division winning Denver Nuggets . To suggest that their season was one of underachievement wouldn’t do the franchise any justice at all. Their season bordered on sheer ineptitude and mediocrity ! And much of the travails within the organization stemmed from the lack of authority and communication between McHale and that of the Timberwolves’ hierarchy , once he assumed the role as the team’s coach.

Randy Foye of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks to evade the defensive play of the Celtics' Paul Pierce during a regular season game played at the TD Banknorth Center in Boston , Massachussetts,. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Elsa .................

And for McHale , though his dismissal wasn’t at all a complete surprise. To apportion blame solely upon his shoulders would be indeed unfair. The front office and in particular the actions of GM David Kahn and owner, Glen Taylor , left a great deal to be desired , with the their all too lack of authority and forthrightness. Nevermind the fact that as an owner Taylor became more of a spendthrift , rather than loosening the purse strings when it came to pursuing roster personnel that’d stengthen the team and franchise, as a whole . And make them somewhat more competitive on the field of play.

For the incoming Rambis , he’ll now have to assess the talent that’s in place. Not only from the roster personnel wise. But also when it comes to the coaching staff , therein. As it’s customary for an incoming coach to always want to bring in his coaching staff. Merely, from the fact that he’s use to working with them. Somehow , in this case I don’t feel that Taylor or Kahn will be that magnanimous. So it would like this will be an ongoing process for Rambis and his assessment of the roster and incumbent coaching staff.

T'wolves' GM David Kahn and the team's owner Glen Taylor answer questions from the convened press at a team press conference. picture appears courtesy of espn.com/ ap/photo/ Martin Geshell ...................

The nucleus of this Timberwolves’ roster is affixed with some tremendous young talent . But on appearance alone, one can see that it’s completely devoid of veteran leadership. That’d create a calming influence for some of the young novices on this roster. Their most experienced player is former NBA journeyman Chucky Atkins . Highly unlikely, that he’d be the sort of player that Rambis would be turning to , to lead this young roster. But make of it what you will . As someone has to .

What Kobe Wants, Kobe Gets. Well, At Least Most Of The Time

Well the off-season proved to be an upheaval for a number of teams around the NBA . And that’s to be expected , as many teams felt that they had a rather disappointing season. For the Los Angeles Lakers who came off winning their 15th NBA title, it was something of a well executed season, all-round.

Kobe Bryant the Finals' MVP seen here in Manila , Philippines. While there , the player will be conducting several Nike sponsored youth basketball coaching clinics. The player will also be traveling to Tapei , China. picture appears courtesy of ap/ photo/ Richard Chao ............................

And for the team’s All Star guard Kobe Bryant , it was a for a prophecy fulfilled. Those who cast doubt as to whether or not he could win a title without Shaquille O’Neal. Finally saw that Bryant could do it without him, given a good complement players to surround the player with the facets needed.

Lakers' first round pick Chinemelu Elonu (left) and the Clippers' Marcellus Kemp battle for a loose ball during an NBA Summer League Game played in Las Vegas , Nevada. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Laura Rausch ............................

Well for the Lakers this off-season was no different with the departure of one their heroes in the postseason, in Trevor Ariza. The player seeking a commmitment from the team in terms of a long term contract paying him considerably more money. It was felt by the player that would be the Lakers’ form of showing loyalty to him for his contributions to the team’s success. Alas, it wasn’t to be as they were not prepared to acquiesce to his demands. He eventually signed as a free-agent with the Houston Rockets. And much to everyone’s surprise moving in the opposite direction from the Rockets was Ron Artest, who was signed by the Lakers.

Artest has let it be known that he has come to the Lakers to contribute further, to the team’s success and fulfill his ambition of winning an NBA title. Well that’s what he’s got to say at this juncture . But I guess we can believe him. For Bryant , he’s welcomed the player with open arms and admits that he’d rather have Artest as a teammate , rather than having to play against him on a regular basis within the Western Conference.

Free-agency and the problems that it can sometimes create. Well for the general manager of the teams, they’ve got to be financially prudent and at the same look to improve the team’s roster in the places necessary. At times it may well mean having to lose a valuable asset. But then it can mean having to acquire a player without having to overpay for that talent. However, when it comes to a situation that’s now fomenting with regard to Odom and his desire to be paid commensurate to what he believe is his perceived value. It in effect puts the Lakers and their GM Mitch Kupchak in something of a dilemma. Bryant is optimistic that the player will remain with the team. Odom is an unrestricted free-agent.

Lakers' GM Mitch Kupchak who has worked closely in unison with the team's coach Phil Jackson in assembling the Lakers championship winning team. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Elisio Gonzalez .........................

Overtures have been made towards the player by the Miami Heat . And Dwyane Wade of the Heat has made it known that it his desire to see Odom become a Miami Heat player. It could very well become a tug of war for the player’s services. But much of that’ll be predicated on the deisres of both teams. The Heat for their part are also pursuing Carlos Boozer of the Utah Jazz . And it remains their number one priority at present. But that’s not to say that their interest in Odom is on the decline.

The perceived view is that Odom while a very good player. He remains an enigma for all who’ve seen him play. At his very best he’s player who can give you 20pts , 10reb’s on regular basis, were it his desire to do so. And it plainly comes down to <strong desire and his willingness to contribute to a team consistently. And therein lies the enigma with regard to Lamar Odom. For the Los Angeles Lakers, they might not defer to Bryant when it comes to a final decision on the issue. Although they’ll probably listen to any input on the matter from the player. Coach Phil Jackson for his part has kept his cards close to his chest. And for the Lakers’ fans it’s not really hard to see where their loyalties lie on this very issue. They’re probably 70-30 in favor of seeing Odom leave. He was viewed as a valid member of a championship winning team. But his time has come , and it’s viewed that he ought to be bid , a hearty farewell and thanks for memories. If nothing it’s the least that the fans could do for the player.

Kobe Bryant (left) and teammate Lamar Odom (right) of the Los Angeles Lakers. It remains to be seen as to whether or not Odom will remain a Laker for the forseeable future. As it'd appear that contract negotiations have stalled. The player is also said a desired target of the Miami Heat. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Elvis Takahida ...................

Possibly at the end of it all the player’ll remain with the Los Angeles Lakers. Whether or not he’d be prepared to play for the team at a reduced salary remains to be seen. The mid-level salary cap would be the preferable option for the team. And at between $4.5m-$6m it wouldn’t appear to be an excessive amount to be playing a veteran such as Odom. Though the player himself. may well feel that he could be in line for a better offer from the Miami Heat. And it’s rumored that he’s looking for a long term contract of between 4 and 5 years paying $30-$35m at between $6-$7m per year .

Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat. It is Wade's desire to see the Heat reacquire the player. But it'd appear that the team's pursuance of Carlos Boozer is of the utmost priority for the franchise. That's not to suggest that their interest in Odom has waned . picture appears courtesy of weblogs.com @ copyrighted material All rights reserved .................

The business side of any sport is littered with decisions that’ve been to the detriment of a team , or what ultimately proves to be of benefit to them. As to the decision to be made by the Lakers’ hierarchy. They know that for all sense and purpose this just won’t be about positives far outweighing the negatives with regard to Lamar Odom. But more in line with what’s best for the team from a financial and competitive aspect.

Lamar Odom or Carlos Boozer To The Miami Heat? Sorry, I Can’t Dignify That With An Answer

So the free agency period is here and a number of teams around the league have begun to retool their rosters for next year. Now as much as it pains me to say this. The Miami Heat are doing little to persuade their All Star guard Dwyane Wade , that they mean business in strengthening their roster.

Lamar Odom (left) of the Los Angeles Lakers and Carlos Boozer (right)of the Utah Jazz. Both players are said to be targets of the Miami Heat. There's a remote possibility that both players could be signed to complelment Dwyane Wade, the Heat's All Star guard. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Alastair Walsh ..........

Now far be it for me to suggest that the two players they’re said to be assessing with a view to signing are not worthy of playing alongside Wade. But in Carlos Boozer and Lamar Odom , you’re basically getting two players who consistently tend to underperform, given their undoubted talents.

But in all reality there’s no way that in viewing the addition of either Boozer or Odom, would one assess that the Heat would become a legitimate contender within the Eastern Conference of NBA . Not with the splash made by the Boston Celtics in signing Rasheed Wallace . Which in effect places them right back on top as the prohibitive favorite within the conference. Whilst the Cleveland Cavaliers believe that their fate may well lie in the fact , that in acquiring Shaquille O’Neal from the Phoenix Suns , they can redeem themselves after their loss in the conference finals.

And whilst Wade is under no immediate pressure in signing a contract. He’s stated that he’d like to see the team improve the roster greatly, in order to become and remain more competitive.

Dwyane Wade seen here in a postseason playoff game against the Atlanta Hawks . picture appears courtesy of nbae/getty images / Isaac Baldizon ..........................

Speculation is now rife that either of the two players will be making South Florida their home. And for the Utah Jazz’s Carlos Boozer , he’s made it known that he expects the team to make a sign and trade deal that’d create such a move.And with the state’s other NBA team , in the Orlando Magic aqcuiring Vince Carter from the New Jersey Nets , the matching of the offer made to backup center Marcin Gortat. It can be said Miami team President Pat Riley is under due pressure to appease Wade and prove to him that he wants the player to remain and challenge for postseason honors.

The fans in Miami remain resolute in the fact that they’d like see Wade remain in a Heat uniform. And if anything play his entire career with the team. But as of now that may well be asking too much. Obviously with the unrelenting state of the economy , a number of teams around the league have trimmed their payroll and looked to get the best players available within what they deem to be fair market value . However, in the case of Wade how do you assess a player of his stature ? Much less players such as Carlos Boozer or Lamar Odom. Granted , Odom had a wonderful postseason in assisting the Los Angeles Lakers to the NBA title. Buth theirs was one of a concerted team effort , wherein Kobe Bryant willed and led the team with great aplomb to the series win and title. His teammates merely followed the example, with which he led.

The intricacies of the game as it now stands. It’s not now just about the talent on the floor. But even more so about the financial wizardry of the front executives and what they believe to be feasible and in the best interests of a franchise in order to attain success. Such are the vagaries of today’s game , that an executive is almost as important , if not more so than a player on the floor.

Yahoo ! Sports :

Heat targeting both Boozer and Odom

By Adrian Wojarnowski Yahoo Sports

LAS VEGAS- Pat Riley has listened to Dwyane Wade express his unease with the Miami Heat sitting out the Eastern Conference arms race this summer. As the Boston Celtics , Cleveland Cavaliers and Orlando Magic elevated themselves as championship contenders, the Heat president sold his superstar on patience, promising to surround him with talent for the long run.

Now the Heat are working furiously to deliver Lamar Odom and Carlos Boozer to the shores of Biscayne Bay. The Heat are trying to sell Odom on a five-year $34 million contract, at the mid-level exception, and a league executive with knowledge of the talks says Miami has also hatched a three-way proposal with the Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies to secure Boozer.

The essentials of a possible deal would include Miami sending forward Udonis Haslem and Dorrell Wright to Utah. Because Memphis under the cap, Utah could move Wright’s $2.8million salary to the Grizzlies and save itself approximately $5.6million with salary and luxury-tax payments. Memphis could probably get cash and picks for its trouble. The Heat would have to then send one more small contract to make the math and salary exchange work.

Miami would pay Boozer his $12.7million salary this season and own his Bird rights to sign him to an extension next summer.

The deal isn’t considered imminent, but the Jazz are working hard to find a suitable trade forn Boozer. Utah is determined to match the Portland Trailblazers’ $32million offer sheet for restricted free agent Paul Milsap . Utah has until the end of the week to match or lose the young power forward to the Blazers. Most league executives believe they’ll match the offer , regardless whether they’ve moved Boozer.

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Financial expediency has to be the norm , given the state of play. And one has to consider that the NBA for all of its profound success in the marketing of its produt as a global brand. Even they now realize that budgetary belts need to be tightened. The franchises themselves can’t ever envisaged that this economic crisis would take such a toll on their patron, the fans. So much whatever gesture in terms of an altruistic nature may well be the only way that they can keep those interested in supporting their teams.

What’s In A Number? Someone Ask Tracy McGrady, Please?

So the Houston Rockets’ Tracy McGrady will be looking to wear the #3 jersey when the new season opens up for his team . With the newly signed Trevor Ariza seemingly in to make an easy transition after the departure of Ron Artest westward bound to the Los Angeles Lakers . One would surmise that the Rockets will be looking towards legitimacy as a contender within the Western Conference.

Chase Budinger (10) of the Houston Rockets goes to the basket in an NBA Summer League game played against the Minnesota T'wolves at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nv,. picture appears courtesy of nbae/getty images/ Garrett W. Ellwood ............

However , with the impending loss of All-Star center Yao Ming quite possibly for a season , if not an abrupt end to an already tangible career within the NBA. It has to be said that the future as to the Rockets’ fortunes may well rest squarely on the shoulders of McGrady. In some circles Tracy McGrady has been viewed as the quintessential player. In others he’s viewed as a players who’s never quite lived up to the early promise shown. Be it either through a lack of maturity on his part. Or the mere fact he’s merely not a team player and who’s merely about the stats alone.

Rockets' guard Tracy McGrady . picture appears courtesy of globesports.com/ Everett Cooper .................

One thing is most definitely certain is that this year will either be a make or break year for both McGrady and the Houston Rockets. After last year’s disappointment of the postseason ,wherein the loss to the Lakers in the conference semi-finals 4-3 brought about an abrupt end to their postseason ambitions in the NBA. Another season of disappointment and GM Dary Morey and the team’s coach Rick Adelman will have to take good , long and hard look at the team’s roster.

Jermaine Taylor of the Houston Rockets shoots a free throw against the T'wolves in an NBA Summer League Game played at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas , Nv,. picture appears courtesy of nbae/ getty images/ Garrett W Ellwood .........

The team’s draft was deemed to be a success. And with the additions of Chase Budinger , Sergio Lull and Jermaine Taylor as rookies on the roster. These players ought to complement a core group of talented players that showed some promise initially in the playoffs. And in particular the play and contribution made by third year point guard Aaron Brooks. The player , himself , showed a great deal of maturity and leadership throughout much of the playoffs. And were it not for the unevenness of the team’s play and then the loss of Yao Ming in conference semi-finals to the Lakers. We may well never have known how the might’ve ended up faring . But the games aren’t about suppositions , as it’s about the events that take place and the the facts presented that determine the results at the end of the day.

As to McGrady and his wish to wear the #3 jersey in order give an identity to a man-made crisis the Darfur region of Sudan. I commend the player on his altruism and philanthropical efforts. At the end of the day the plight of the refugees means nothing to the most ardent of NBA fans. As their only concern is what takes place on the basketball court. And state of the team that they suppport. Whilst this is a magnanimous and magnificent gesture on the part of the player. Unless his game excels on the court and reaches the levels that we know it is capable of reaching. But above all he shows that he can not only become the vocal and physical leader of this Houston Rockets’ team. Then all of the these gestures will count for nothing in the eyes of the fans. No matter how stoic and virtuous his intentions might be.

Trevor Ariza seated alongside Rokckets' GM Daryl Morey having just been acquired by the Rockets from the Los Angeles Lakers as a free agent. picture appears courtesy of nbae/getty images/ Bill Baptist ............

If McGrady really seeks a platform to make his voice heard and to further publicize his efforts . Then what better way than to raise the level of his play and lead this Rockets’ team with some authority in the absence of his teammate Yao Ming. Afterall over the years we’ve questioned his leadership and maturity. But never his undoubted skills. If its his intention to prove to us all that he has what it takes. Then let now be the time for him to step up to the plate once and for all. And then at the same time just forget about a numbered jersey and what it apparently signifies.

McGrady amongst the midst of a man-made dissaster of immeasurable proportions in the Darfur region of Sudan.

McGrady amongst starving refugees at a camp in the Darfur region of Western Sudan. picture appears courtesy of afp/oneblackplanet/ Michael Olagwenyuwu .................

At the end of the day that number may well mean something to him. But to the mere fan in attendance it mightn’t signify nothing to them at all. The numbers on a jersey is nothing compared to figure on a piece of legal tender ! And that is afterall the real donation that we as fans contribut to a a worthwhile and just cause !

As to McGrady let’s hope that he too can prove that the lessons he’s now said to be learning will serve him in good stead as far as his professional career goes. And also in his philanthropic endeavors.

Yahoosports.com :

McGrady switching jersey numbers

HOUSTON-(AP) Houston Rockets’ star Tracy McGrady will swap his Number 1 uniform number for No. 3.

McGrady’s old number will go to new teammate Trevor Ariza , the Lakers’ forward who agreed to a multi yeard deal with Houston on July 2.

McGrady wore No.3 in high school . He is making the switch to promote his humanitarian efforts in the Darfur region of the Sudan and a documentary on his 2007 summer visits to refugee camps in the region. The documentary, #3 Points*, is set for release this fall. The title refers to goals of peace, protection and punishment.

McGrady has donated $75,000 to a humanitarian project in Darfur. He had microfracture surgery on his left knee in late February. Doctors say he needs up to 12 months to recover.

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The Birdman Can Still Fly High In Denver But Can He And The Nuggets Join The Mile High Club?

The Denver Nuggets have resigned Chris Birdman Andersen to a 5 year deal . The deal itself is said to be worth in the region of $26m . And it’s a handsome reward for a player that seemingly resurrected his career with the Nuggets.

The high flying Chris Andersen who was resigned by the Denver Nuggets to a 5 year $27m contract. Anderson appreciatie of the commitment shown in him by the franchise. picture appears courtesy ap/photo/Mark Bartlestein ………

For coach George Karl and that of the Nuggets’ hierarchy it was a welcoming reward in the return of a fan favorite amongst the Denver crowd. He brought energy to the team’s home arena and the fans fed off that. And with his zany antics , erstwhile character and willingness to sacrifice his body in order to do the dirty work on the offensive and defensive end in terms of rebounding. It’s easy to understand why it is that the franchise were determined to retain the player.

And though the team fell short of their expectations , having been eliminated by the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals 4-2 after a determined effort. It has to be said that this will be a team to be reckoned with next season. A year older but much more wiser one would hope. This augurs well for the franchise and their ultimate aim of winning an NBA championship.

Ty Lawson who was selected 18th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves is seen here with Nuggets' coach George Karl after the player was acquired by the team in a trade . Lawson will be the backup to point guards Chauncey Billups and Anthony Carter . But in all likelihood he's viewed as the heir apparent to Billups. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo / David Zabulowski ............

And with the experience of having a proven winner within their midst in point guard Chauncey Billups as a well as the maturation of Carmelo Anthony. It’s easy to see why this team may well be one of the few teams in the Western Conference who could give the Los Angeles Lakers a run for their money in defending their NBA title.

Carmelo Anthony (left), Chauncey Billups (center) and Nene Hilario of the Denver Nuggets are on the sidelines during the Western Conference quarter finals game played against the New Orleans Hornets at the Pepsi Center in Denver , Colorado. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Chris Farrior .............

Not lost in all of this has been the draft of the Nuggets. There’s been astute assessment in what their requirements were. And they went about picking up a very talented player. They may well have picked up the heir apparent to Billups in acquiring former Carolina Tar Heel Ty Lawson. The player was orginally taken 18th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves , who then dispatched his rights to the Nuggets via a trade. That in ofitself could well be a blessing in disguise for the team as a whole. With Lawson they get an intense and creative offensive player . Who’s also equally adept on the defensive side of the ball. And with the team’s roster almost seeminly unchanged . The cohesiveness that we saw throughout much of the regular season and into the earlier rounds of the playoffs ought to be still there as the new season beckons.

The aspirations of the franchise won’t at all be lost on the fans in Denver. They’ve shown their loyal support to the team throughout the regular season and then into the postseason itself. And even with the disappointment of the loss to the Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. They could see the beginning of something fruitful as to the team’s play and the resolve shown.

Yahoo Sports.com reports: via AP Sports Writer Pat Graham …..

Anderson reaches 5-year deal to stay with Nuggets.

AP Sports Writer Pat Graham :
Denver (AP) Chris ‘Birdman’ Andersen has reached a 5 year deal to keep his high flying, shot blocking act with the Denver Nuggets , the team he revived his career with last season.

Andersen’s attorney, Mark Bryant , confirmed the agreement on Wednesday , saying it would be signed later in the day.

Andersen, who turned 31 on Tuesday could make up to $26m over the lifetime of a back-loaded contract that gives the Nuggets financial flexibility.

The Nuggets didn’t return phone calls.

Andersen will make close to $3.65 million in 2009-10, up from the $998,398 he made last season, when he averaged 6.4 points and 2.5 blocked shots in 20.6 minutes.

“You write the best scenario, think you’re dreaming and open youre eyes and it’s real,” Bryant said. “He’s very excited . They treated him as a priority.”

With his colorful tattoos and spiky hair, Andersen was an instant hit with the Denver fans, who’ve embraced his return to the court.

Andersen came back to the NBA in 2008 following a ban that lasted almost two years after he tested positive for an undisclosed “drug of abuse”.

The energetic forward known for his defensive disruption around the basket provided a spark off the bench as the Nuggets made a run to the Western Conference finals, where they fell short to the Los Angeles Lakers in six games.

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