Well, I just finished chatting with Chad Ford, NBA draft specialist...okay, me and everyone else on ESPN's web page finished chatting with him. But at least he answered one of my questions. That's exciting right? I didn't ask him anything about the Jazz because frankly, that's sort of a mess. They're picking 20th in a really bad draft class. Plus, Sloan refuses to play rookies and half the roster may be gone next season. So trying to figure out what they're doing in the draft would be pointless given how different this team will be once free agency starts. So instead I asked Chad about the Phoenix Suns. I might as well start following them since Kaiti and I will soon be living there.
Rich (SLC, UT) : Is Flynn around for the Suns when they (most likely) pick?
Chad Ford: (4:51 PM ET ) He's a possibility. I think Earl Clark and Austin Daye would be too. And I hear Steve Kerr likes Blair .. a lot.
What? Blair? Do the Suns really need an undersized power forward? Unless (que dramatic music) they play on getting rid of either Shaq or Amare...
There are a lot of rumors out there saying that both of these guys are being shopped around. Even Steve Nash might be on his way out. Personally, I think this would be a huge mistake. Getting rid of any of these guys would be a disaster. Shaq has played well and his expiring contract is worth a lot. If they want to trade him wait until the deadline, you're likely to get more for him from a team looking to cut money. Amare is the best player on the Suns, period. He has been a little disgruntled, but it'd have to be a damn good trade to get rid of a guy with his talent. Maybe he'd be more likely to stay happy if the ownership and GM stopped making stupid mistakes and trading away draft picks and all-stars (Joe Johnson anyone?). Nash is past his prime, but he's the face of the franchise and there aren't a lot of point guards out there better than him even at this stage of his career. The bigger reason not to get rid of any of these players is the 2010 draft. The Suns don't have a pick in it. If any of the above mentioned players is traded, the Suns forfeit their lottery pick. They'd tank a season and wouldn't even have a chance at improving in the draft. Not a smart move.
If they keep all those guys why draft Blair? He wouldn't see much playing time behind Amare and doesn't really help in any real way. The guy would fit better in a slow offense, not with the run and gun suns. Johnny Flynn is a much better option. He's a smart point guard and could take the much needed back-up point guard role while Nash groomed him to be the future of the franchise.
Steve Kerr has really made a mess of the Suns. Before he showed up the Suns were the most exciting team to watch. They were one of the top teams in the west and had a great coach. What did he do? He got rid of the coach, changed the philosophy of the team and took the fun out of the game for the remaining players (goodbye Raja Bell and Boris Diaw). He needs to go before he makes another mistake by taking Blair in the draft.
Or maybe Chad Ford is wrong. After all, the last time he answered my question he didn't hesitate to say that the Jazz would win the Northwest division in a landslide against the Nuggets. How did that one turn out again Chad?
Showing posts with label NBA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NBA. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Monday, May 4, 2009
NBA Playoff Predictions: How I'm doing? 2nd Round
Alright, the first round is over and second round has already begun. First, let's see how I did predicting round one.
Cleveland swept Detroit, as predicted.
The Celtics and Bulls series was tough and long, just like I said it would be. I predicted 6 games and if the Celts had managed to get the ball to Ray Allen at the end of the third overtime I just may have been right, instead it went 7 games. I was close, but at least I had the right team.
I picked Orlando in 6 and Orlando won in 6. Not a big surprise. However the fact that they won without Howard and Courtney Lee was a bit surprising.
Miami and Atlanta, my first mistake. I thought Wade could win the series for the Heat, and if he had just a little help from his team he probably could have carried them over the hump. The problem? His team practically played for the Hawks. Oh well, you can't get them all right.
The Jazz and Lakers series went exactly how I thought. Utah was able to get by the Lakers in one game at home, but were clearly outmatched and outplayed the entire series.
I though the Hornets would at least put up a fight against the Nuggets, but it turned out that they were worse than I originally thought (i.e. losing by 58 points at home). The Hornets lost it in 5 and this series was never really in question.
Again, I thought San Antonio had a bit more fight in them. I thought it would be a competitive series. But Dallas more or less mauled the Spurs. They just aren't the same team without Ginobli. But, I still picked the winner, it just didn't go 7 games.
Portland got off to a rough start and although they played well, they were just too young to win this series. I should have known better than pick them. The Rockets played very well and despite Roy's superstar performances the Blazers were out in six.
So, I picked 6 of the 8 series correctly. Not bad. So who do I have in the second round?
Eastern Conference:
Atlanta (4) vs. Cleveland (1)
Atlanta had to play 7 games against the Dwayne Wade's, since the rest of the Heat didn't really play most of the games. So how could they go and beat the best team in the NBA which also happens to have the official MVP? There is no way. Cavs in 5 or 6. Atlanta is tough at home, so they might win a couple there.
Orlando (3) vs. Boston (2)
Boston had a tough time with the Bulls and I think they're pretty tired. With all the overtimes they played they essentially played an 8 game series. Orlando also has Dwight Howard, who Boston will have a tough time matching up against with KG still out. The onyl problem for Orlando is the health of Courtney Lee, who may miss some time with his own injury. They aslo don't have the homecourt advantage. Still, I just don't see Boston being able to handle the Magic after such a tough first round. I'm taking the Magic in 7.
Western Conference:
Houston (5) vs. LA Lakers (1)
The Rockets beat an inexperienced team. That's the exact opposite of the Lakers. They know playoff basketball and have a deeper, longer bench. Yao may get the best of Bynum and Kobe may have some trouble against the defense of Artest and Battier. But who's going to stop Gasol and Odom? It should be a decent series, but I still think the Lakers win in 6.
Dallas (6) vs. Denver (2)
Okay, okay, the series already started. I know. But come on, the last game of the first round was on Sunday morning followed by this series beginning. I had no time to write predictions in between round one and two. Thanks NBA. Still, I would have picked Denver regardless. Dallas ran into a broken San Antonio team and even though they are playing good basketball, the Nuggets are playing great. They have home court advantage and a deeper more energized bench. I've said it time and again, but this Dallas team just doesn't feel or look right. I think Denver wins in 5 or 6.
So, check back and see how I do on these predictions. Maybe some teams will surprise me.
Cleveland swept Detroit, as predicted.
The Celtics and Bulls series was tough and long, just like I said it would be. I predicted 6 games and if the Celts had managed to get the ball to Ray Allen at the end of the third overtime I just may have been right, instead it went 7 games. I was close, but at least I had the right team.
I picked Orlando in 6 and Orlando won in 6. Not a big surprise. However the fact that they won without Howard and Courtney Lee was a bit surprising.
Miami and Atlanta, my first mistake. I thought Wade could win the series for the Heat, and if he had just a little help from his team he probably could have carried them over the hump. The problem? His team practically played for the Hawks. Oh well, you can't get them all right.
The Jazz and Lakers series went exactly how I thought. Utah was able to get by the Lakers in one game at home, but were clearly outmatched and outplayed the entire series.
I though the Hornets would at least put up a fight against the Nuggets, but it turned out that they were worse than I originally thought (i.e. losing by 58 points at home). The Hornets lost it in 5 and this series was never really in question.
Again, I thought San Antonio had a bit more fight in them. I thought it would be a competitive series. But Dallas more or less mauled the Spurs. They just aren't the same team without Ginobli. But, I still picked the winner, it just didn't go 7 games.
Portland got off to a rough start and although they played well, they were just too young to win this series. I should have known better than pick them. The Rockets played very well and despite Roy's superstar performances the Blazers were out in six.
So, I picked 6 of the 8 series correctly. Not bad. So who do I have in the second round?
Eastern Conference:
Atlanta (4) vs. Cleveland (1)
Atlanta had to play 7 games against the Dwayne Wade's, since the rest of the Heat didn't really play most of the games. So how could they go and beat the best team in the NBA which also happens to have the official MVP? There is no way. Cavs in 5 or 6. Atlanta is tough at home, so they might win a couple there.
Orlando (3) vs. Boston (2)
Boston had a tough time with the Bulls and I think they're pretty tired. With all the overtimes they played they essentially played an 8 game series. Orlando also has Dwight Howard, who Boston will have a tough time matching up against with KG still out. The onyl problem for Orlando is the health of Courtney Lee, who may miss some time with his own injury. They aslo don't have the homecourt advantage. Still, I just don't see Boston being able to handle the Magic after such a tough first round. I'm taking the Magic in 7.
Western Conference:
Houston (5) vs. LA Lakers (1)
The Rockets beat an inexperienced team. That's the exact opposite of the Lakers. They know playoff basketball and have a deeper, longer bench. Yao may get the best of Bynum and Kobe may have some trouble against the defense of Artest and Battier. But who's going to stop Gasol and Odom? It should be a decent series, but I still think the Lakers win in 6.
Dallas (6) vs. Denver (2)
Okay, okay, the series already started. I know. But come on, the last game of the first round was on Sunday morning followed by this series beginning. I had no time to write predictions in between round one and two. Thanks NBA. Still, I would have picked Denver regardless. Dallas ran into a broken San Antonio team and even though they are playing good basketball, the Nuggets are playing great. They have home court advantage and a deeper more energized bench. I've said it time and again, but this Dallas team just doesn't feel or look right. I think Denver wins in 5 or 6.
So, check back and see how I do on these predictions. Maybe some teams will surprise me.
Friday, April 17, 2009
NBA Playoff Predictions: How I'm doing?
Alright, so I was a bit off with my predictions, but who saw Manu Ginobli going down for the season or the Jazz and Magic essentially losing every game they played since my last predictions. Oh well, I was sort of close.
Let's take a look at the match ups.
Detroit (8) vs. Cleveland (1)
My last prediction: Chicago vs. Cleveland
I knew Detroit could fall to number eight, so this match-up isn't too unexpected. I'm thinking this will be a cake walk for Cleveland given how poorly the Piston's are playing and how bad the chemistry is there. Cleveland in 4, maybe 5.
Chicago (7) vs. Boston (2)
My last prediction: Detroit vs. Orlando
I have to be honest, I'm surprised boston held on to the 2nd seed. I'm even more surprised that the Bulls shot up the 7th seed. I've been doubting them all season, so I guess they showed me. This will be an interesting series. Boston has lost Garnett for the rest of the season and their GM, Ainge, just went to the hospital because of a heart attack. How much is this going to effect the team? I still think the Celtics will win, but it won't be easy. Celtics in 6.
Philadelphia (6) vs. Orlando (3)
My last prediction: Philadelphia vs. Boston
Both of these teams have been struggling down the stretch. But, Orlando has Dwight Howard and some of the best three-point shooting. Philadelphia struggles from beyond the arc and doesn't have anyone to match up against Howard. Orlando will get by them in 6.
Miami (5) vs. Atlanta (4)
My last prediction: Miami vs. Atlanta
Finally I got one right! And I'm still sticking with my other prediction; Miami will win. Dwayne Wade is good enough to win a single series for the Heat and there is just something I don't trust about the Hawks.
Now on to the West.
Utah (8) vs. LA Lakers (1)
My last prediction: Dallas vs. LA Lakers
The Jazz fell apart and Dallas was better than I gave them credit for. Utah is playing horrible basketball and can't win on the road. I think they might win one, due in large part to D Will. But, if they make this an interesting series I'd be a bit surprised. Lakers in 5.
New Orleans (7) vs. Denver (2)
My last prediction: Utah vs. Denver
I thought if the Jazz could get the Nuggets in this spot they could take advantage of them and win the series. But in my opinion the Hornets don't have the same advantage. Chandler is still hurt and as good as West and Paul are, Denver is deeper and plays with a lot more energy. Plus, they have the home court advantage. I'm giving this one to the Nuggets in 6 or 7.
Dallas (6) vs. San Antonio (3)
My last prediction: New Orleans vs. Houston
Dallas is playing much better than they have been all year and it's happening at the perfect time for them. San Antonio on the other hand is facing a pretty difficult series without one of their most important players, Ginobli. This will be a dog fight and it's sort of toss up. I'm giving the Mavs the edge though, simply because San Antonio has a few more health questions. Mavs in 7.
Houston (5) vs. Portland (4)
My last prediction: Portland vs. San Antonio
This is going to be an awesome match-up. Both of these teams are exciting to watch and play true team basketball. I'm especially looking forward to watching Ron Artest battle Brandon Roy and Yao take on Oden. At the end of the day though, Portland is tough at home and has more star talent. I'm giving it to them in 7.
So, as you can see the match-ups I had were a little off, but hopefully these predictions are a little better. I guess we'll see when the playoffs start tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
NBA Awards 09
With a week left it's time to start talking awards for the season. I'll give my prediction and in some cases who I think should win instead.
Most Improved Player of the Year
Prediction: Kevin Durant
My Choice: Danny Granger
Why?
Everyone knows Durant is going to be a star in this league. The guy is putting up terrific numbers and will eventually be considered one of the top five guys in the league. Should we punish him for expecting greatness? No, but giving a guy the rookie of the year award his first year and than the most improved award the next? That's ridiculous. The only way he could have improved enough to deserve this is if he led his team to contention for the playoffs. That would have shown a genuine improvement instead of a natural progression. He's right where everyone thought he would be at this point in his career. Granger? Well, he wasn't exactly a high draft pick (17 in 2005). He has shown improvement every year and is now the clear leader of his team. His numbers are up and he's kept the Pacers in the playoff hunt through most of the year. They can still technically get in at this point. Durant's team has lost 12 more games and was never considered a playoff threat. Granger's put the team on his back and elevated his game beyond what people thought he could. That's why he should be getting the most improved player award. But I have a feeling Durant will wind up with it.
Sixth Man of the Year
Prediction: Jason Terry
My Choice: Jason Terry
Why?
He's clearly the best guy in the league coming off the bench. He's keeping the Mavs in games and providing scoring, energy and efficiency off the bench. The only other guy I see as a real candidate is Paul Millsap, but he started for most of the season due to Carlos Boozer's injury, so I don't really consider him a sixth man.
Defensive Player of the Year
Prediction: Dwight Howard
My Choice: Dwight Howard
The guy is leading the league in blocks and rebounds. Teams have to change their offense because of his presence in the paint. I don't think I need to say anything else.
Coach of the Year
Prediction: Stan Van Gundy
My Choice: Jerry Sloan
Why?
Van Gundy has done an excellent job. He's really transformed the Magic into title a contender starting with their defense. Plus, he was able to integrate Alston seamlessly when Nelson was lost for the season. I wouldn't be upset or surprised if he won it. But, Sloan has done an equally amazing job in Utah. The Jazz didn't have their projected starters on the floor together until late February and were still able to hold on for a playoff spot. Few teams dealt with injury as well as the Jazz and unlike Van Gundy, Sloan didn't have the defensive player of the year to help carry the team. Plus, it's absurd that he hasn't won this award at least once in his 21 years coaching the Jazz. The guy deserves it. He made the hall of fame this year, so he probably won't be getting this one either. But in my opinion it's odd to have a coach in the hall of fame when he's never been given coach of the year. Most teams would have fallen apart with the amount of injuries the Jazz had to key players, but Sloan made them execute and contend.
Rookie of the Year
Prediction: Derrick Rose
My Choice: Derrick Rose
Why?
He's put up very high numbers for a first year player. But the reason I give him the award is for his impact on the team. Chicago was a huge disappointment last year and most thought they'd struggle this year as well. Not with Rose at the helm. He hasn't been perfect, but he's led the teams to a potential playoff berth and is far and away the best rookie this year. His leadership and talent will lead to some great things down the road for the Bulls.
Most Valuable Player of th Year
Prediction: Lebron James
My Choice: Lebron James
Why?
He is in the top five in points per game, top ten in assists, top ten in steals, and has led his team to the best record in the NBA (so far). He's been magnificent and while Dwight, CP3, Wade and Kobe all deserve some consideration, at the end of the day, he's the best player on the planet right now.
Most Improved Player of the Year
Prediction: Kevin Durant
My Choice: Danny Granger
Why?
Everyone knows Durant is going to be a star in this league. The guy is putting up terrific numbers and will eventually be considered one of the top five guys in the league. Should we punish him for expecting greatness? No, but giving a guy the rookie of the year award his first year and than the most improved award the next? That's ridiculous. The only way he could have improved enough to deserve this is if he led his team to contention for the playoffs. That would have shown a genuine improvement instead of a natural progression. He's right where everyone thought he would be at this point in his career. Granger? Well, he wasn't exactly a high draft pick (17 in 2005). He has shown improvement every year and is now the clear leader of his team. His numbers are up and he's kept the Pacers in the playoff hunt through most of the year. They can still technically get in at this point. Durant's team has lost 12 more games and was never considered a playoff threat. Granger's put the team on his back and elevated his game beyond what people thought he could. That's why he should be getting the most improved player award. But I have a feeling Durant will wind up with it.
Sixth Man of the Year
Prediction: Jason Terry
My Choice: Jason Terry
Why?
He's clearly the best guy in the league coming off the bench. He's keeping the Mavs in games and providing scoring, energy and efficiency off the bench. The only other guy I see as a real candidate is Paul Millsap, but he started for most of the season due to Carlos Boozer's injury, so I don't really consider him a sixth man.
Defensive Player of the Year
Prediction: Dwight Howard
My Choice: Dwight Howard
The guy is leading the league in blocks and rebounds. Teams have to change their offense because of his presence in the paint. I don't think I need to say anything else.
Coach of the Year
Prediction: Stan Van Gundy
My Choice: Jerry Sloan
Why?
Van Gundy has done an excellent job. He's really transformed the Magic into title a contender starting with their defense. Plus, he was able to integrate Alston seamlessly when Nelson was lost for the season. I wouldn't be upset or surprised if he won it. But, Sloan has done an equally amazing job in Utah. The Jazz didn't have their projected starters on the floor together until late February and were still able to hold on for a playoff spot. Few teams dealt with injury as well as the Jazz and unlike Van Gundy, Sloan didn't have the defensive player of the year to help carry the team. Plus, it's absurd that he hasn't won this award at least once in his 21 years coaching the Jazz. The guy deserves it. He made the hall of fame this year, so he probably won't be getting this one either. But in my opinion it's odd to have a coach in the hall of fame when he's never been given coach of the year. Most teams would have fallen apart with the amount of injuries the Jazz had to key players, but Sloan made them execute and contend.
Rookie of the Year
Prediction: Derrick Rose
My Choice: Derrick Rose
Why?
He's put up very high numbers for a first year player. But the reason I give him the award is for his impact on the team. Chicago was a huge disappointment last year and most thought they'd struggle this year as well. Not with Rose at the helm. He hasn't been perfect, but he's led the teams to a potential playoff berth and is far and away the best rookie this year. His leadership and talent will lead to some great things down the road for the Bulls.
Most Valuable Player of th Year
Prediction: Lebron James
My Choice: Lebron James
Why?
He is in the top five in points per game, top ten in assists, top ten in steals, and has led his team to the best record in the NBA (so far). He's been magnificent and while Dwight, CP3, Wade and Kobe all deserve some consideration, at the end of the day, he's the best player on the planet right now.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Updated Predictions for the NBA Playoffs
With only a week and two days left in the NBA season I thought I would do a final prediction for what the playoff match ups will be. Let's start in the east.
8. Chicago Bulls - I was horribly wrong and I can admit it. New Jersey has no chance here. They completely fell apart. In my defense, the Harris injury in late March really killed them, but he didn't miss that much time. They should have been much better. So, I'll give in and pick Chicago. They've been playing pretty well, have the rookie of the year, and could even be the 7th seed given how bad the Pistons are playing. No one below them is going to catch up this late in the season. The Bobcats just can't make up that much ground.
7. Detroit Pistons - As I stated they could be the 8 seed since they seem to have forgotten how to play. Their chemistry is a mess with Iverson and Wallace and they are clearly a border playoff team. Can they hold of Chicago...well, we'll see. In any case they're going to get obliterated in the playoffs no matter what.
6. Philadelphia 76rs - Again this is pretty close to call. It could easily be Miami here, considering how close they are in standings. But, I'm giving the edge to Miami because they have Dwayne Wade and the Heat. That leaves Philly in the 6 spot.
5. Miami Heat -Finally I'm sticking to one of my predictions. Miami could fall to the 6th seed, but I don't see them moving up to the 4 spot and I think Wade will push them to stay with a more favorable match up in the playoffs.
4. Atlanta Hawks - Too far behind to catch up to the big boys in the east and too good to fall down and give up home court to Miami or Philadelphia, that's where Atlanta is.
3. Boston Celtics - I could be a pansy and pick Orlando here, but I won't. I really think Orlando can manage the 2 spot. Boston's been great even without Garnet, but I still think they'd rather be healthy than battle for a higher playoff spot.
2. Orlando Magic - I saw them blowout the Cavs on Thursday and I couldn't possibly put them lower than this. They looked downright dominant.
1. Cleveland Cavaliers - No surprise here. They stumbled a little bit over the weekend, but I think it was exactly the fuel they needed to finish strong and push them through the playoffs. They still want the best record in the NBA (and home court in the finals) and I think they'll get it.
First Round:
Cavs destroy the Bulls in 4 or 5 games.
Orlando will pretty easily defeat the Pistons. Who is going to match up against Dwight Howard? They'll take it in 5.
Boston will get through Philly, but it will be a challenge, especially if Garnett is still hurting. It'll go 6 or 7 games, but Boston's home court will be the deciding factor.
Miami and Atlanta will go at it and it will be brutal…not to mention fun to watch. The Heat will be victorious in 6 or 7 games because we already know Wade good is enough to win a series on his own.
Second Round:
Cavs and Heat will be great entertainment. Two of the best will go head to head (James and Wade). But Wade doesn't have much help and LBJ has a title contending supporting cast. Cleveland will win in 5.
Boston and Orlando will be a very physical series. Neither team will back down and it will be a dog fight. I want to say Orlando will win because I just don't know how healthy Boston will be. Not to mention I think they're going to have a tougher first round series. But, I'm not betting against the champs, not yet at least. Boston in 7 games. They may have regrets about not getting home court advantage though.
Conference Finals:
Cleveland is just too good and the defending champs will be just a little too tired to keep up with them. I think Boston might be able to win one series without home court against a good team, but I don't see them winning a second against the best team in the NBA. Cleveland is almost unstoppable at home (37-1). Sorry Boston, but LBJ is going to his second finals. Cleveland in 7.
Now to the West
8. Dallas Mavericks - They could overtake the Jazz at the 7 spot, I think the deciding game will come on Wednesday. But, for right now I think they'll stay put at number 8. Call me a homer.
7. Utah Jazz - I go ahead and give the Jazz the 4 seed in my last predictions and what do they go and do? Blow it. They had a solid chance at getting a higher seed, but they just plain suck on the road (and lose give me games at home to the likes of Minnesota's bench). Boozer isn't playing how he used to and I think there's some trouble in the locker room because of it. They had a big win against New Orleans and if they manage to beat Dallas on Wednesday they even have a shot at the 6 seed. But, really, they'll be lucky staying here at the 7 spot. Something is off about a team that can build a 20 point lead and then lose it in the span of 5 minutes.
6. New Orleans Hornets - Not having Chandler hurts. They are a solid team, but are missing that interior presence. Paul and West will keep them afloat, but I don't think they'll catch up to Portland.
5. Portland Trailblazers - This team just plays good competitive basketball and get pretty consistent contributions from everyone. They won't slip to the lowly Jazz and the struggling Hornets...at least I don't think they will.
4. San Antonio Spurs - They could stay at the 3 spot, but I just have to many questions to put them there in my predictions. The big three are good, but are they healthy enough? Who is coming of the bench that actually makes an impact?
3. Houston Rockets - Just a good team here. Not great, but better than those behind them.
2. Denver Nuggets - The way they handled the Jazz last week showed me that this isn't the Nuggets of past years. They actually play defense. They actually make the extra pass. They even show up for big games. This is a very good team and they're showing it when it counts most. They have won 7 in a row and are peaking at the right time.
1. L.A. Lakers - They just keep winning. They long ago wrapped up the best record in the West, can they get the best NBA record? What will Bynum coming back mean? These two stories will mean more in the playoffs.
First Round:
Lakers will destroy anyone they come across in the first round. Lakers in 4 or 5.
Portland will give the Spurs a run for their money. They'll be a tough out, but the Spurs will have home court and experience. That's too much for the young Blazers to compete against. Spurs in 6.
Houston and New Orleans will be a 7 game series and both teams will play well, but Chris Paul is another guy who can win a series all by himself. And that's what he'll do, breaking the hearts of Houston fans and Yao Ming, who just can't get out of the first round.
Call me a homer if you must, but I think the Jazz would win in a 7 game series with the Nuggets. Yes, the Jazz have trouble on the road, and yes they seem like they are self destructing. But it seemed that way the last two years and the Jazz went out on the road in the playoffs and won both series. It'll be a 7 game series, but the Jazz have experience in this kind of situation and if they can turn things around they still have a very talented roster. They just have to show up. Jazz in 7.
Second Round:
LA and San Antonio have a history of great playoff series and this one won't be any different. There will be blood. But, in the end LA is just too deep, long, and athletic for the Spurs to compete against. LA in 6.
New Orleans and Utah. DWill vs. CP3. It will be a great match up and in the past it's usually gone Williams' way. He probably will play better than CP3, but, I have trouble believing the Jazz will take two series away from home against quality opponents. I barely believe they can beat Denver, so there is no way I think they can beat New Orleans. This isn't a one on one game and for that reason I've got to pick the New Orleans. The Hornets will take it in 6 or 7.
Conference Finals:
New Orleans doesn't have the depth to their roster that LA does. It will be fun to watch, but I don't think it will be all that challenging for the Lakers to win in 6.
NBA Finals:
I am still picking Cleveland over the Lakers. It'll be a battle, but Lebron is for real and so are the Cavs. Cleveland in 7. Kobe will yet again be asked to describe how Shaq's butt tastes.
8. Chicago Bulls - I was horribly wrong and I can admit it. New Jersey has no chance here. They completely fell apart. In my defense, the Harris injury in late March really killed them, but he didn't miss that much time. They should have been much better. So, I'll give in and pick Chicago. They've been playing pretty well, have the rookie of the year, and could even be the 7th seed given how bad the Pistons are playing. No one below them is going to catch up this late in the season. The Bobcats just can't make up that much ground.
7. Detroit Pistons - As I stated they could be the 8 seed since they seem to have forgotten how to play. Their chemistry is a mess with Iverson and Wallace and they are clearly a border playoff team. Can they hold of Chicago...well, we'll see. In any case they're going to get obliterated in the playoffs no matter what.
6. Philadelphia 76rs - Again this is pretty close to call. It could easily be Miami here, considering how close they are in standings. But, I'm giving the edge to Miami because they have Dwayne Wade and the Heat. That leaves Philly in the 6 spot.
5. Miami Heat -Finally I'm sticking to one of my predictions. Miami could fall to the 6th seed, but I don't see them moving up to the 4 spot and I think Wade will push them to stay with a more favorable match up in the playoffs.
4. Atlanta Hawks - Too far behind to catch up to the big boys in the east and too good to fall down and give up home court to Miami or Philadelphia, that's where Atlanta is.
3. Boston Celtics - I could be a pansy and pick Orlando here, but I won't. I really think Orlando can manage the 2 spot. Boston's been great even without Garnet, but I still think they'd rather be healthy than battle for a higher playoff spot.
2. Orlando Magic - I saw them blowout the Cavs on Thursday and I couldn't possibly put them lower than this. They looked downright dominant.
1. Cleveland Cavaliers - No surprise here. They stumbled a little bit over the weekend, but I think it was exactly the fuel they needed to finish strong and push them through the playoffs. They still want the best record in the NBA (and home court in the finals) and I think they'll get it.
First Round:
Cavs destroy the Bulls in 4 or 5 games.
Orlando will pretty easily defeat the Pistons. Who is going to match up against Dwight Howard? They'll take it in 5.
Boston will get through Philly, but it will be a challenge, especially if Garnett is still hurting. It'll go 6 or 7 games, but Boston's home court will be the deciding factor.
Miami and Atlanta will go at it and it will be brutal…not to mention fun to watch. The Heat will be victorious in 6 or 7 games because we already know Wade good is enough to win a series on his own.
Second Round:
Cavs and Heat will be great entertainment. Two of the best will go head to head (James and Wade). But Wade doesn't have much help and LBJ has a title contending supporting cast. Cleveland will win in 5.
Boston and Orlando will be a very physical series. Neither team will back down and it will be a dog fight. I want to say Orlando will win because I just don't know how healthy Boston will be. Not to mention I think they're going to have a tougher first round series. But, I'm not betting against the champs, not yet at least. Boston in 7 games. They may have regrets about not getting home court advantage though.
Conference Finals:
Cleveland is just too good and the defending champs will be just a little too tired to keep up with them. I think Boston might be able to win one series without home court against a good team, but I don't see them winning a second against the best team in the NBA. Cleveland is almost unstoppable at home (37-1). Sorry Boston, but LBJ is going to his second finals. Cleveland in 7.
Now to the West
8. Dallas Mavericks - They could overtake the Jazz at the 7 spot, I think the deciding game will come on Wednesday. But, for right now I think they'll stay put at number 8. Call me a homer.
7. Utah Jazz - I go ahead and give the Jazz the 4 seed in my last predictions and what do they go and do? Blow it. They had a solid chance at getting a higher seed, but they just plain suck on the road (and lose give me games at home to the likes of Minnesota's bench). Boozer isn't playing how he used to and I think there's some trouble in the locker room because of it. They had a big win against New Orleans and if they manage to beat Dallas on Wednesday they even have a shot at the 6 seed. But, really, they'll be lucky staying here at the 7 spot. Something is off about a team that can build a 20 point lead and then lose it in the span of 5 minutes.
6. New Orleans Hornets - Not having Chandler hurts. They are a solid team, but are missing that interior presence. Paul and West will keep them afloat, but I don't think they'll catch up to Portland.
5. Portland Trailblazers - This team just plays good competitive basketball and get pretty consistent contributions from everyone. They won't slip to the lowly Jazz and the struggling Hornets...at least I don't think they will.
4. San Antonio Spurs - They could stay at the 3 spot, but I just have to many questions to put them there in my predictions. The big three are good, but are they healthy enough? Who is coming of the bench that actually makes an impact?
3. Houston Rockets - Just a good team here. Not great, but better than those behind them.
2. Denver Nuggets - The way they handled the Jazz last week showed me that this isn't the Nuggets of past years. They actually play defense. They actually make the extra pass. They even show up for big games. This is a very good team and they're showing it when it counts most. They have won 7 in a row and are peaking at the right time.
1. L.A. Lakers - They just keep winning. They long ago wrapped up the best record in the West, can they get the best NBA record? What will Bynum coming back mean? These two stories will mean more in the playoffs.
First Round:
Lakers will destroy anyone they come across in the first round. Lakers in 4 or 5.
Portland will give the Spurs a run for their money. They'll be a tough out, but the Spurs will have home court and experience. That's too much for the young Blazers to compete against. Spurs in 6.
Houston and New Orleans will be a 7 game series and both teams will play well, but Chris Paul is another guy who can win a series all by himself. And that's what he'll do, breaking the hearts of Houston fans and Yao Ming, who just can't get out of the first round.
Call me a homer if you must, but I think the Jazz would win in a 7 game series with the Nuggets. Yes, the Jazz have trouble on the road, and yes they seem like they are self destructing. But it seemed that way the last two years and the Jazz went out on the road in the playoffs and won both series. It'll be a 7 game series, but the Jazz have experience in this kind of situation and if they can turn things around they still have a very talented roster. They just have to show up. Jazz in 7.
Second Round:
LA and San Antonio have a history of great playoff series and this one won't be any different. There will be blood. But, in the end LA is just too deep, long, and athletic for the Spurs to compete against. LA in 6.
New Orleans and Utah. DWill vs. CP3. It will be a great match up and in the past it's usually gone Williams' way. He probably will play better than CP3, but, I have trouble believing the Jazz will take two series away from home against quality opponents. I barely believe they can beat Denver, so there is no way I think they can beat New Orleans. This isn't a one on one game and for that reason I've got to pick the New Orleans. The Hornets will take it in 6 or 7.
Conference Finals:
New Orleans doesn't have the depth to their roster that LA does. It will be fun to watch, but I don't think it will be all that challenging for the Lakers to win in 6.
NBA Finals:
I am still picking Cleveland over the Lakers. It'll be a battle, but Lebron is for real and so are the Cavs. Cleveland in 7. Kobe will yet again be asked to describe how Shaq's butt tastes.
Hall of Fame Bound
It was announced today that Jerry Sloan and John Stockton will be enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame. It's fitting that both of them will receive this honor at the same time since Stockton spent his whole career under Sloan and they both enjoyed success in part because of one another.Stockton was one of the greatest point guards to play the game. He still holds the records for most assists and most steals all time. He also holds the NBA record for the most seasons and consecutive games played with one team, leading the Jazz for nearly 20 years. He was a ten time all-star and won two gold medals.
Sloan still coaches for the Jazz and is the fourth most-winning coach in NBA history. He coached the Jazz to 16 straight playoffs and to the NBA finals twice. But even when his two star players, Stockton and Malone retired Sloan stayed with the franchise and nearly coached a team everyone thought would be at the bottom of the standings to the playoffs. Although the team missed the playoffs the next two years, he took a new group of players to the conference finals in 2007. The Jazz have again reached the playoffs this season under his leadership and are always considered a dangerous and well disciplined team.
These are two quality guys who were committed to winning and playing the right way and it was a pleasure to grow up watching them.
I am sure that the third member of the historic Utah Jazz team of the past, Karl Malone, will join them shortly.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Updated Predictions for the 09 NBA Playoffs
It's been nearly 2 months since I posted my predictions for the 09 NBA playoffs. Now that the season has about a month and a half left it's time to look back and see how I did and give my predictions a little update. Let's start off with the east.
8. New Jersey - Call me stubborn, but I'm sticking with them. Yes, they are still ranked in 10th in the east, but they only trail by a half game and the two teams in front of them aren't exactly a lock. Milwaukee is still dealing with injuries and I don't know if they have enough to hold onto the last playoff spot. Although, I thought they would have fallen off a long time ago when Redd went out for the season. Chicago has even less of a chance in opinion. I just don't like this team. Rose is great, but Deng is still injured and I just don't like the team's roster. I would be surprised if they actually made the playoffs in front of New Jersey, Milwaukee or Charlotte. Speaking of Charlotte, I actually had a tough time not choosing them for the final spot. They've been playing very well recently and could stun everyone by grabbing the last playoff berth. Still, I had New Jersey in my last predictions and I am not ready to change my mind. They have good guard play and a great center in Lopez.
7. Philadelphia - Again, I'm sticking with the team I had here before. Why? They aren't good enough to move much further ahead. Conceivably they could beat out Detroit for the 6th seed, but Detroit has been playing better lately. I think they'll stay at the seven spot and should be happy to do so given how bad the Brand signing seems to have been.
6. Detroit - Finally a change in my predictions. They've dropped from a 4 seed to a 6 seed. While they are playing much better now that Iverson isn't starting (or playing due to injury) they aren't going to catch the teams ahead of them. They've turned a corner that might pay off in the playoffs, but I think they're stuck where they are in the playoff position.
5. Miami - The team isn't that good. Beasley has been sort of a disappointment given the hype he had coming into the league, and I, like everyone, have trouble remembering who even plays on this team. So why are they getting the 5th seed? Dwayne Wade. Simple as that. He could even pull off lifting this team to the 4th spot.
4. Atlanta - This team can be either explosive and exciting or utterly disappointing. They go back and forth, but I see them holding off The Miami Wade's a little bit longer. In the playoffs it'll be a different story.
3. Boston - Yes, I know, I am shocked to have them down here too. But given their injury problems I don't really know if they can hold off Orlando fro them 2 spot and I don't anyone could catch Cleveland. Besides, they need to think about the playoffs and give Allen and Pierce some more rest which might mean they cough up their current position to Orlando if it means their team is better prepared for the real work in the post season.
2. Orlando - I am surprised they were able to hang on after losing all-star Nelson. But the trade for Alston was genius. Dwight, Lewis and Turk are going to keep this team rolling and I think they'll overtake Boston.
1. Cleveland - LBJ will not let them give up the top spot. They're thinking about who has home court in the finals (they are after all 28-1 there). That will push them to the best record in the east at least.
On to the playoff game predictions:
First Round:
Cleveland will destroy New Jersey, or whoever gets the 8th spot. I will barely be a competition. But, the match up at point guard would be fun to watch at least with Williams and Harris playing against each other.
Orlando will beat Philly, but not as easily as one would think. Philly plays with a lot of energy and surprised everyone last year when they almost knocked out Detroit. But eventually Dwight will take over and Orlando will win in 6.
Boston and Detroit will fight an epic battle just like they did a year before. Detroit is dangerous now that they are playing their brand of ball and Boston's bench will struggle. Boston better hope they are healthy by the start of the playoffs, because it will be a dog fight. But, if the big three are ready to go Boston will take it in 7.
Dwayne Wade will do what he did in the finals a few years ago and almost single handedly win the series. Atlanta for all intents and purposes should beat the Heat, but I question their consistency and Wade will take advantage of it. I guess the other Miami players will play as well, but it will be the Wade show and Atlanta will self combust. Heat in 6 or 7.
Second Round:
In one of the greatest matchups in playoff history LBJ and Wade will duel each other and put on a show. Each one will try and one-up the other, but the difference is Lebron will have a team to back him up. Wade won't. Not to mention Cleveland will have the home court advantage. That kills any chance for Miami. Cleveland will win in 5 or 6.
Boston and Orlando will duke it out and depending on how tired the big three are it might go in the Magic's favor. But never question the heart of a champion, so I have to go with Boston barely edging out Orlando in 7 games. Their experience might trump everything Orlando seems to have going for them.
Conference Finals:
Boston will be too tired and the Cavs will be too good. Cleveland will end the back to back championship hopes of the Celtics by winning in 7 games. Home court will again be a deciding factor.
On to the west.
8. Okay, I admit it, I was a little off in my predictions in the west, and so let me try again. Dallas will get the 8th seed. Phoenix has not chance to get back into the playoff race at this point. Dallas could even get the 7th seed seeing as how Denver is doing what they always do, choking in the final, most important stretch of the season. But, it's not like Dallas has been that great. They are a very flawed team and unless Denver gives up the 7th spot, Dallas certainly isn't going to earn it.
7. Denver - Like I said, they haven't been doing too well lately. I don' think they'll lose this spot to Dallas, but they only have a half game lead so it's definitely possible.
6. New Orleans - Too inconsistent. They have the potential to be the second or third best team in the west, but only Chris Paul comes to play every night. The teams are so close in the west the Hornets could be anywhere from a 7 seed to a 3 seed. So I picked a happy medium.
5. Portland - I don't think they can win their division, but with Roy and the gang all playing hard they're going to be in the thick of things.
4. Utah - I want to put Utah in the 3 spot, but Houston has been too good and the Jazz are terrible on the road. I don't think they'll get higher than a 4 seed. But, last time I said they'd be a 7 seed (or maybe out of the playoffs all together) and they went on a tear, so maybe if I say they'll be a four seed they'll somehow get the 2 spot. Not likely though.
3. Houston - They are so much better without T-Mac it's not even funny. Well it is a little bit funny. I am surprised they have done this well. I look at their roster and besides Yao and Artest I'm not all that impressed, but they play good team ball and I think they'll hold onto the 3 spot, and possibly take over the 2 spot.
2. San Antonio - They seem to be stumbling a little at the end here, but who am I to question Duncan, Parker and Pop. If Manu comes back they'll be fine. I don't think they would fall much further than the 3rd seed.
1. LA Lakers - They are the best in the west without question. Even without Bynum. I don't think they are soft as they were last year either. But, what's going to happen with Bynum? Is he going to come back? How will that change them? Nothing is going to stop them from winning the west, but those are all good questions when you consider how they'll do in the playoffs.
First Round:
LA will impose its will on Dallas pretty comfortable, the Mavs will be lucky to win one game. They're simply outclassed. Lakers in 4 or 5.
San Antonio will handle Denver pretty easily as long as the original big three play well. Denver was impressive through most of the year, but seem to be out of gas. If the Nuggets regain their swagger it might be competitive, but the Spurs aren't going out in the first round. Spurs in 6.
Houston and New Orleans will be an interesting series. I've been a doubter of Houston all season, but they are an impressive team. Ron Ron may be crazy, but he can play and I think Yao would be difficult for the Hornets to handle. But, CP3 is one of the best in the league and even if his team doesn't play to their potential he will and that's enough to deny Yao moving beyond the first round yet again. Hornets in 6.
Utah and Portland will be an exciting series. Both teams leave everything out on the floor. But Portland's inexperience will end up costing them. Utah has been there before and Williams is always dynamite in the playoffs. While it will be a good match up, Utah will eventually win out. Plus, it's hard for opposing teams to win in Salt Lake City. Jazz in 6 or 7.
Second Round:
The Lakers are too tough, especially in places where the Jazz aren't. They have the best shooting guard in the league and if Bynum is back a much better center. The Jazz will put up more of a fight than they did last year, but it won't be enough. The Jazz have trouble on the road and are unlikely to change that tendency when they go to the staples center. LA will take it in 6.
Last time these two teams met in the post season it seemed like the Hornets were going to win the series, only to have San Antonio stun them. It won't happen again. The Hornets will have a tough time, but will eventually prevail. CP3 is that good. Hornets in 7.
Conference Finals:
No one can beat LA, at least not out west. They'll have a better team, home court advantage, and more experience in the post-season. Sure, San Antonio had all that, but the Lakers also have a much deeper bench and are far more athletic. The Lakers will cruise in 5 games to the NBA finals.
NBA FINALS:
I may have changed how they got there, but the two teams facing each other for the title will be Cleveland and LA. And guess what? I'm sticking with my prediction that Cleveland will win. Mo Williams is the Scottie Pippen LBJ needed to become the next Jordan. The Lakers will be overconfident coming off of their domination in the west and the Cavs will pounce. It'll be a hotly contested series and home court advantage may be the deciding factor, but I give the edge to Cleveland.
8. New Jersey - Call me stubborn, but I'm sticking with them. Yes, they are still ranked in 10th in the east, but they only trail by a half game and the two teams in front of them aren't exactly a lock. Milwaukee is still dealing with injuries and I don't know if they have enough to hold onto the last playoff spot. Although, I thought they would have fallen off a long time ago when Redd went out for the season. Chicago has even less of a chance in opinion. I just don't like this team. Rose is great, but Deng is still injured and I just don't like the team's roster. I would be surprised if they actually made the playoffs in front of New Jersey, Milwaukee or Charlotte. Speaking of Charlotte, I actually had a tough time not choosing them for the final spot. They've been playing very well recently and could stun everyone by grabbing the last playoff berth. Still, I had New Jersey in my last predictions and I am not ready to change my mind. They have good guard play and a great center in Lopez.
7. Philadelphia - Again, I'm sticking with the team I had here before. Why? They aren't good enough to move much further ahead. Conceivably they could beat out Detroit for the 6th seed, but Detroit has been playing better lately. I think they'll stay at the seven spot and should be happy to do so given how bad the Brand signing seems to have been.
6. Detroit - Finally a change in my predictions. They've dropped from a 4 seed to a 6 seed. While they are playing much better now that Iverson isn't starting (or playing due to injury) they aren't going to catch the teams ahead of them. They've turned a corner that might pay off in the playoffs, but I think they're stuck where they are in the playoff position.
5. Miami - The team isn't that good. Beasley has been sort of a disappointment given the hype he had coming into the league, and I, like everyone, have trouble remembering who even plays on this team. So why are they getting the 5th seed? Dwayne Wade. Simple as that. He could even pull off lifting this team to the 4th spot.
4. Atlanta - This team can be either explosive and exciting or utterly disappointing. They go back and forth, but I see them holding off The Miami Wade's a little bit longer. In the playoffs it'll be a different story.
3. Boston - Yes, I know, I am shocked to have them down here too. But given their injury problems I don't really know if they can hold off Orlando fro them 2 spot and I don't anyone could catch Cleveland. Besides, they need to think about the playoffs and give Allen and Pierce some more rest which might mean they cough up their current position to Orlando if it means their team is better prepared for the real work in the post season.
2. Orlando - I am surprised they were able to hang on after losing all-star Nelson. But the trade for Alston was genius. Dwight, Lewis and Turk are going to keep this team rolling and I think they'll overtake Boston.
1. Cleveland - LBJ will not let them give up the top spot. They're thinking about who has home court in the finals (they are after all 28-1 there). That will push them to the best record in the east at least.
On to the playoff game predictions:
First Round:
Cleveland will destroy New Jersey, or whoever gets the 8th spot. I will barely be a competition. But, the match up at point guard would be fun to watch at least with Williams and Harris playing against each other.
Orlando will beat Philly, but not as easily as one would think. Philly plays with a lot of energy and surprised everyone last year when they almost knocked out Detroit. But eventually Dwight will take over and Orlando will win in 6.
Boston and Detroit will fight an epic battle just like they did a year before. Detroit is dangerous now that they are playing their brand of ball and Boston's bench will struggle. Boston better hope they are healthy by the start of the playoffs, because it will be a dog fight. But, if the big three are ready to go Boston will take it in 7.
Dwayne Wade will do what he did in the finals a few years ago and almost single handedly win the series. Atlanta for all intents and purposes should beat the Heat, but I question their consistency and Wade will take advantage of it. I guess the other Miami players will play as well, but it will be the Wade show and Atlanta will self combust. Heat in 6 or 7.
Second Round:
In one of the greatest matchups in playoff history LBJ and Wade will duel each other and put on a show. Each one will try and one-up the other, but the difference is Lebron will have a team to back him up. Wade won't. Not to mention Cleveland will have the home court advantage. That kills any chance for Miami. Cleveland will win in 5 or 6.
Boston and Orlando will duke it out and depending on how tired the big three are it might go in the Magic's favor. But never question the heart of a champion, so I have to go with Boston barely edging out Orlando in 7 games. Their experience might trump everything Orlando seems to have going for them.
Conference Finals:
Boston will be too tired and the Cavs will be too good. Cleveland will end the back to back championship hopes of the Celtics by winning in 7 games. Home court will again be a deciding factor.
On to the west.
8. Okay, I admit it, I was a little off in my predictions in the west, and so let me try again. Dallas will get the 8th seed. Phoenix has not chance to get back into the playoff race at this point. Dallas could even get the 7th seed seeing as how Denver is doing what they always do, choking in the final, most important stretch of the season. But, it's not like Dallas has been that great. They are a very flawed team and unless Denver gives up the 7th spot, Dallas certainly isn't going to earn it.
7. Denver - Like I said, they haven't been doing too well lately. I don' think they'll lose this spot to Dallas, but they only have a half game lead so it's definitely possible.
6. New Orleans - Too inconsistent. They have the potential to be the second or third best team in the west, but only Chris Paul comes to play every night. The teams are so close in the west the Hornets could be anywhere from a 7 seed to a 3 seed. So I picked a happy medium.
5. Portland - I don't think they can win their division, but with Roy and the gang all playing hard they're going to be in the thick of things.
4. Utah - I want to put Utah in the 3 spot, but Houston has been too good and the Jazz are terrible on the road. I don't think they'll get higher than a 4 seed. But, last time I said they'd be a 7 seed (or maybe out of the playoffs all together) and they went on a tear, so maybe if I say they'll be a four seed they'll somehow get the 2 spot. Not likely though.
3. Houston - They are so much better without T-Mac it's not even funny. Well it is a little bit funny. I am surprised they have done this well. I look at their roster and besides Yao and Artest I'm not all that impressed, but they play good team ball and I think they'll hold onto the 3 spot, and possibly take over the 2 spot.
2. San Antonio - They seem to be stumbling a little at the end here, but who am I to question Duncan, Parker and Pop. If Manu comes back they'll be fine. I don't think they would fall much further than the 3rd seed.
1. LA Lakers - They are the best in the west without question. Even without Bynum. I don't think they are soft as they were last year either. But, what's going to happen with Bynum? Is he going to come back? How will that change them? Nothing is going to stop them from winning the west, but those are all good questions when you consider how they'll do in the playoffs.
First Round:
LA will impose its will on Dallas pretty comfortable, the Mavs will be lucky to win one game. They're simply outclassed. Lakers in 4 or 5.
San Antonio will handle Denver pretty easily as long as the original big three play well. Denver was impressive through most of the year, but seem to be out of gas. If the Nuggets regain their swagger it might be competitive, but the Spurs aren't going out in the first round. Spurs in 6.
Houston and New Orleans will be an interesting series. I've been a doubter of Houston all season, but they are an impressive team. Ron Ron may be crazy, but he can play and I think Yao would be difficult for the Hornets to handle. But, CP3 is one of the best in the league and even if his team doesn't play to their potential he will and that's enough to deny Yao moving beyond the first round yet again. Hornets in 6.
Utah and Portland will be an exciting series. Both teams leave everything out on the floor. But Portland's inexperience will end up costing them. Utah has been there before and Williams is always dynamite in the playoffs. While it will be a good match up, Utah will eventually win out. Plus, it's hard for opposing teams to win in Salt Lake City. Jazz in 6 or 7.
Second Round:
The Lakers are too tough, especially in places where the Jazz aren't. They have the best shooting guard in the league and if Bynum is back a much better center. The Jazz will put up more of a fight than they did last year, but it won't be enough. The Jazz have trouble on the road and are unlikely to change that tendency when they go to the staples center. LA will take it in 6.
Last time these two teams met in the post season it seemed like the Hornets were going to win the series, only to have San Antonio stun them. It won't happen again. The Hornets will have a tough time, but will eventually prevail. CP3 is that good. Hornets in 7.
Conference Finals:
No one can beat LA, at least not out west. They'll have a better team, home court advantage, and more experience in the post-season. Sure, San Antonio had all that, but the Lakers also have a much deeper bench and are far more athletic. The Lakers will cruise in 5 games to the NBA finals.
NBA FINALS:
I may have changed how they got there, but the two teams facing each other for the title will be Cleveland and LA. And guess what? I'm sticking with my prediction that Cleveland will win. Mo Williams is the Scottie Pippen LBJ needed to become the next Jordan. The Lakers will be overconfident coming off of their domination in the west and the Cavs will pounce. It'll be a hotly contested series and home court advantage may be the deciding factor, but I give the edge to Cleveland.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Predictions for the 09 NBA Playoffs
The 2008/2009 NBA season is almost half way over. So I thought I’d try and predict which teams will make it into the playoffs and where they will be seeded. Let’s start off with the Easter Conference.
8. New Jersey – Yes, right now they’re 7th in the east, but I think Philadelphia will end up ahead of them, thus knocking them to the 8th spot. Milwaukee will be right there with them, but the way Devin Harris and Brooke Lopez are playing I think they’ll still make the playoffs.
7. Philadelphia – They will knock NJ out of the 7th spot, but won’t go much higher than that. I think it’d be hard to catch up with teams ahead of them considering they will still need adjustment once Elton Brand is back in the lineup.
6. Miami – Dwayne Wade can only carry you so far and the 6th spot is pretty damn far. Michael Beasley will improve and they may get some more help if they end up trading Marion before the deadline, hopefully in the form of a big.
5. Atlanta – It’s Atlanta, I’m sorry, I just can’t see them any higher than this despite how well they played the first half of the season. I don’t know if Mike Bibby can keep playing at this level, but they definitely have enough to get the 5th or possibly 4th spot.
4. Detroit – Okay, I’ll admit, I don’t know what to think of this team. They could go on a tear given how much talent they have and still catch up to the 3rd spot. But they just look lost out there. They have no identity after trading Chauncey and the chemistry is definitely not what it should be. But, when you have Rip, Iverson, Sheed, and Stuckey I don’t think you can slip too far. They won’t go far in the playoffs, but I think it’s safe to say they’ll be the 4th or 5th spot.
3. Orlando – This is a great team. Unfortunately for them there are two better teams ahead of them. I expect them to keep rolling, but Boston has already caught up and Cleveland will stay ahead of them.
2. Boston – They have struggled mightily the last few weeks and they definitely don’t have the same swagger they once did. Their bench is a big issue and I think they’re going to have to make a deal before the trade deadline. But, they still have KG, Paul and Allen. They’re going to be okay. Besides, they’ve shown they can put a gigantic run together if they need to. But I think Cleveland will still squeak out with the number 1 spot.
1. Cleveland – At the beginning of this season I was a huge doubter of this team. I thought adding Mo was a good move, but didn’t make this team that much better. Boy was I wrong. James is playing out of his mind (thankfully I picked him up in my fantasy league). They’re playing good defense and are unbeatable at home. King James will carry them to the number one spot; he simply wants it more than the Celtics do.
I expect the conference playoffs to go a little something like this:
First Round:
Cleveland will easily beat the 8th seed Nets, probably in a sweep or at the most 5 games.
Boston will take care of Philly in 5 or 6 games.
Orlando will have some trouble stopping Wade and Miami but will win in 7.
Atlanta will beat Detroit in 6 games and the Pistons reign will end.
Second Round:
Cleveland will stick it to Atlanta in probably 5 or 6 games. There is no way they can contain LBJ.
Boston will barely beat Orlando in a game 7. It will be a match up for the ages because Dwight Howard will be a beast.
Conference Finals:
Boston got the best of Cleveland last time, but James won’t let it happen again. He’s powered his team to the finals before and will do it again. The big three will tired of eliminating the Magic and won’t have enough left in the tank for Cleveland. It won’t hurt to have the home court advantage either. Cleveland will win in 6.
Now let’s move on to the Western Conference.
8. Houston – This is a tough choice, because I think Dallas has a shot at this spot too. But, I give the edge to Houston because if they get their team back from injuries they are much better than Dallas this year. That said, if T-Mac doesn’t come back well along with Artest they’re sunk. And if Yao goes down again, they can kiss the playoffs, and probably this roster goodbye.
7. Utah – The Jazz, like the Rockets have had plenty of injuries. In fact they haven’t had the roster they thought they would this entire season. But, they’ll continue to play well at home and win just enough to remain afloat until Boozer comes back after the All-Star break. They won’t catch up with anyone, but they’ll solidify their 7th seed spot and hope they can do damage in the playoffs. Again, if they continue to be plagued by injures, they too could be out of the playoffs.
6. Phoenix – Like Detroit, this team is a shell of its former self. But, with a resurgent Shaq and growing chemistry I think they’ll stay around the 6th seed. Nash has clearly lost a step, but is still one of the best point guards out there. Amare has been in a bit of a funk as of late, but I think he’ll start getting more shots once the chemistry comes together a bit more. I loved the Jason Richardson trade because he can put up points quickly and he shoots the three very effectively. While they aren’t what they used to be, they are flat out better and/or healthier than the teams behind them.
5. Portland – They have a lot of youth, so I don’t see them getting higher than a 5th seed. In fact they might even drop behind the Suns as the season progresses. But, I don’t think they end up missing the playoffs this year. They have strong coaching and a good leader in Brandon Roy. Aldridge is underrated and Oden and the other young guys should continue to progress.
4. New Orleans – Chris Paul is amazing, but the rest of his team? They’re mediocre, aside from West. Chandler is having a terrible season and while Posey is a great clutch guy and wonderful defender, they need a legitimate third option. They seem to lack the passion they had last year, maybe it’s because they’re waiting for the playoffs.
3. San Antonio Spurs– At the beginning of the season it looked like age had finally caught up with this team. Now, it looks like they’re ready for another championship run. Signing Roger Mason this last off-season was huge. The guy is great in clutch situations and compliments the team perfectly. Having him allows Manu to come off of the bench which is a huge asset for the Spurs. Duncan is still one of the most dominant players in the league and Tony Parker is a seasoned point guard who makes good decisions and can flat out score. They need help at center, but they’ve got enough to get the 2nd or 3rd seed.
2. Denver Nuggets– What a surprise Denver has been. They looked like they were going nowhere. They traded Camby and Iverson and I assumed they had thrown in the towel. But, Chauncey has been phenomenal. He’s given that team the leadership they’ve needed since Melo was drafted and has turned that team around. Nene is playing well and when Carmelo returns from his injury they’re going to be even tougher to beat. In my opinion they have the Northwest division all but wrapped up given that Utah and Portland are still struggling with injuries. They’ll be fighting with the Spurs for the 2nd seed and I’m giving them the edge because of the Billups factor.
1. LA Lakers – They’ve been like a steamroller this season. Their length can’t be matched by anyone and Kobe has been playing very well. No one in the west has the depth they do and I think the leadership of Fisher and Kobe will keep this team focused on locking up the number 1 spot.
I expect the conference playoffs to go a little something like this:
First Round:
LA will dismantle Houston even if they have their whole roster back from injury. The Lakers have too many ways to score and will have the benefit of having played together for longer. They take it in 5.
The Jazz take the Nuggets to the brink of elimination, but not having home court is the deciding factor. The Nuggets win in 7.
Once again it’s San Antonio and Phoenix. Unfortunately for the Suns, the outcome is the same once more. In will be a dog fight but the Spurs win it in 7.
In the playoffs biggest surprise the Blazers beat the Hornets. Paul will be dynamite, but the young guns of Portland will edge them out in 7 games.
Second Round:
No surprise here, the Lakers beat the Blazers handily in 5 or 6 games. The Lakers have too much and Portland is too inexperienced.
The Nuggets and San Antonio will slug it out for 6 games, but San Antonio will ultimately come out victorious. Roger Mason will continue to impress and the original big three, Parker, Ginobli, and Duncan will advance to the conference finals.
Conference Finals:
This will go seven games. Neither team will give an inch. But, LA will get to the finals for the second year in a row in a thrilling game 7. San Antonio simply won’t be able to contain Kobe and will get beat by their lack of size.
Now for the NBA Finals!
Cleveland will take on the Lakers in what will become a classic series. Lebron vs. Kobe. While the Lakers have the better team, the Cavs have the best player. My initial thought is to give it to the Lakers, but I just don’t see James getting to this stage again and not winning a championship. Somehow, some way, Lebron James will finally bring a championship to Cleveland after a duel with Kobe in game 7.
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