Guess Larry had a hot date tonight, or maybe he spent the night praying for world peace. Both serve a universal good, so long as there are no friggin mountains involved.

Ok, Smokey. I will assume then that you are on speaking terms with some of the ex or current Grizzlies (except for White Chocolate, of course). I know a couple ex-NBA players, but they quit returning my calls long ago, but if I run into them somewhere, I can still get their take on things. You are right about Jason's personality. He seems to have mellowed somewhat in Miami, but as a young man, he was a very bad interview. Either he hired a dumb image consultant, or, he just didn't understand the business and public relations side of NBA basketball. Early in his career, White Chocolate reminded me of a young Barry Bonds. Both have mellowd with age but I don't think either will rid themselve of that very heavy chip on their shoulders; both are still quik-tempered; one foot on G, then other on O. I don't know what drives either of them; why they are pissed all the time, but I'm guessing the remedy isn't as simple as a hug.

Smokey, I read an article the other day claming that Darko was asking to be traded to a contender. I can't recall where I read it though (maybe Big Ben Maller's column?. Larry says he hadn't heard anything about it. Is it true? Does Darko want out of Memphis? If so, why? I don't believe the contending thing for a second. All the players say that.

NBA News: Blatche signed a 5 year/$15M contract today with the Wizards. See? Soliciting police officers can be good for your career. Blatche got the same money as Scalabrine, but one of them is badly over-valued.

Smokey, don't ask me to diss Eddie Jones. Can't do it. Been a fan too long. I know you and Larry think he's over the hill, but I'm still hoping he's got something left.

[/b]

I don't know anything about Darko wanting to be traded. It was my understanding that he was thrilled to come to Memphis, so he could show Orlando what they missed out on. He has actually only been in Memphis one day and that was for his press conference, then he left to prepare to play for his national team. Both he and his agent thought Memphis would be a great fit for him. Iavaroni is known as a big man's coach, the media spotlight doesn't shine on Memphis often, and he can be a big fish in a small pond.

We will be in the running for a playoff spot, if we stay healthy. I know I'm being a homer, but I truly believe this. We are 1 to 2 players away from being a great team. You don't have to have all superstars to be a great team (just a great player or two with good players, who buy into team basketball.)

I heard it was Blatche's friend who solicited the police officer, and he was just there with him. I don't know if that's true or not. Still, that would have not stopped me from signing him, if he was on my radar. Now Scalabrine's contract makes me laugh, until I remember Brian Cardinal and his contract with us. Boy, I wish Cardinal's knees wouldn't have gone south on him.

And Thomas, I'm not asking you to diss Eddie Jones. All I was saying was that the Eddie Jones we traded for was not the same Eddie Jones that played with the Lakers. It's just age, brother. It happens to all of us. My mind tells me I can still do the things I did in my 20's and 30's, but my body responds, "No, damn way!!"

Eddie Jones brought a veteran leadership to the Grizzlies and a positive lockroom presence in his first season. The second season, Fratello's rules grew too much for him and the Grizzlies were losing. The Grizzlies wanted to trade his expiring trade (and Eddie knew this), but could get no takers. Everyone around here wanted us to bid for Allen Iverson, but Mike Heisley was still in selling mode and wouldn't let Jerry West do anything. Jerry West, feeling Eddie Jones' pain and knowing his drive to win, helped negotiate a buyout so Eddie could chase the ring. I must admit I was pretty pissed, when I saw how well Eddie was playing for the Heat, after doing nothing for us the first half of the season. Still, his gas tank was on E, when the Heat played Chicago in the playoffs.

As for me, it's important for there to be a gay presence in the NBA. I can't say why, but there just is. I don't want kids to see being gay as a rate-limiting step in their lives. If you can ball and you love to ball, you should be able to ball. I think a lot of gay kids steer away from atheletics, because they feel unwelcomed in team sports. I want that to change. If we can get acceptence in the NBA, it will trickle down to the high school and AAU levels. My partner (we have been together for 15 years, so he can say this) used to call me "The Token Gay Of The NBA". Happily, John Amaechi changed all that (and No, I don't know John Amaechi). I, personally, think David Stern should have Amaechi talk to the incoming rookies about gay issues, just like they school the rookies on other issues they will face as an NBA players.

As for all your Rock-N-Roll, that's great. But take a piece of advice from an old dog. Go out and get Ella Fitzgerald's new CD, "Letters..." Yes, Ella is on the chants again! Put it on and lay back and get mellow. Ain't nothing wrong with gettin' older, just lay back and enjoy the ride!

Have you seen Sergio Rodriguez of the Portland Trailblazers? He's exciting to watch. Oddly enough, he is known as Spanish Chocolate. I would gladly trade Damon Stoudamire back to Portland for him. Don't know how we would make the salaries work, but I bet I could figure out something if Portland was willing(lol)!

Thomas

I tried to find anything on Darko wanting a trade, but I couldn't. I was surprised to find that Sasha Pavlovic was expecting an offer from Memphis. Memphis doesn't have any money left to sign a player, so Cleveland would have to do a sign-and-trade. This came out of leftfield. I have not heard anything about Sasha and the Grizzlies.

http://www.mtsmondo.com/sport/vesti/text.php?vest=67466


Hopefully, I put the link in correctly. It's from a Serbian newspaper.

The mystery has been solved. Turns out you and Larry were right about Darko; he never asked the Grizzlies to trade him. I read a Dime Magazine blog last week. Those guys reported that Marko Jaric (TWolves) wanted to be traded to a contender. I didn't give the article the attention it deserved, so I thought it said Darko Milicic. I'm a friggin idiot. Smokey, I'm getting old, dude.

The Grizzlies a playoff contender? OK. They certainly have a shot. But with a new coach, a rookie PG, and a head case like Darko (dude talks way too much), it won't be easy.


I don't care about athletes picking up prostitutes. I never make moral judgements. Just wanted to have some fun at Blatche's expense. Scalabrine got over; dude is one lucky bastard. As for Ella; she's a great lady and a great singer, and Jazz is an great American art form, but I'm not built for it. I do like old school romantic crooners like Marvin Gaye, Brian McKnight, and R. Kelly though. Lately, I've been listening to Robin Thicke. Lost Without You and especially Can You Believe? are eerily reminiscent of Lets Get It On and Distant Lover , so I love what Robin Thcke is doing with his music. Smokey, Rock and R&B reflect who and what I am.



You played in the NBA? I know you can't say too much without giving yourself away, but did you actually get any playing time? I can't debate the gays-in-sports issue with you. I knew a week after joining this forum that my views were different than most; got lectured to and ganged up on, so decided to leave it alone altogether. Just curious, but if you admire Amacechi, and believe that NBA players need more sensitivity, and that young gay athletes need more education and encouragement, why can't you do what Amaechi is doing? You might be good at it. You won't know if you don't try.

Larry, it's time. Come home. WTF are you?

Smokey, we'll have to talk about Sasha Pavlovic later. OK? But the Cavs might be persuaded to do a sign and trade. That depends on what the Grizzlies offer them in exchange for doing them the favor.

No, Thomas, I never played in the NBA. I'm sorry if I somehow misrepresented myself. It was not my intention. I was one of those kids who quit team sports in high school, because I was afraid everyone would find out my secret. The coach told us you could tell who was gay, because they would look too long at you in the showers. I got self-conscious and quit. I stuck with individualized sports, thereafter. Tennis being my mainstay. My partner termed me Token Gay of the NBA, because I would be invited to different team functions, and I would be the only gay guy in the room (I assume). My partner does not like sports, and refuses to go to any of these functions. He says the only reason I'm invited is so the grizzlies organization can look open-minded, but that's not true. In reality, they just want my money(lol). I go because I enjoy the events, and if they do only invite me because I'm gay, so what. Perhaps, I can change some people views. Most people don't seem to care- we share a common interest-the Grizzlies and that's what we focus on when we talk (mostly).
I can say I know what your views are on coming out in the NBA, but I will tell you mine. If a current player asked my advice about coming out, these are the questions I would ask and this is what I'd say:
1. Why do you want to come out at this point in your career? You feel isolated? Is someone trying to blackmail you? You feel your life is just not worth living if you have to live this? or you just want to do the right thing and help out the gay community?
2. What do you think you will gain by coming out at this point in your career?
3. What do you think you will lose?
4. Do the benefits outweigh the risk?
I would advise against coming out unless your life depended on it. As a pro atheletic, you have a short time span in which you can make money. Your coming out will make a difference. Your life will be a lot harder, if not in the lockerroom on the road (I would say both). Unless your a superstar, there is no need to come out until after you retire, or you will be retiring prematurely. Development a strong support group to help you balance your private and professional life. I support any decision you make, but please don't do it on the spur of the moment or moment of passion.

Perhaps, Amacechi and some others can change this, and one day players won't have to pick between their love for the sport and their sexuality. It takes time. You can best believe I'll be behind the scenes doing the best I can to help that day come sooner.

Back to the NBA: Damon Stoudamire said he isn't happy with his new role with the Grizzlies, and does not want to be here just to train the new talent. He says he did not come back from his injury just to ride the bench. He has requested a meeting with Grizzlies management. I look for him to be trade (if there are any taker) or bought out, before the beginning of the season.

In other news, Carlos Delfino hurt his knee.
Delfino Injures Knee
August 20, 2007 - 3:58 am
Globe And Mail -
Toronto Raptors guard Carlos Delfino injured his knee over the weekend and may miss part of the FIBA Americas Championship, according to a report in an Argentine newspaper.

Delfino injured his knee in the Tuto Marchand Cup and could sit out Argentina's game against Uruguay in Las Vegas on Thursday.

"It is the same knee I underwent surgery on two years ago and that's what makes me worry most, as I cannot stretch the leg too much," Delfino told La Nacion newspaper on Sunday.

"I know it's not serious, but I worry because I cannot get out of my mind memories about how much I have suffered with this knee."


I wonder what Toronto thinks about this?

If I had been able to climb Middle Palisade (it was too f***'n windy!), my weekend trip to the mountains would have been more valuable than achieving world peace.

....Lots of good posts, guys. Smokey, I think you, Thomas and I all have similar views about pro athletes coming out, and being both gay and a sports fan. We'd get flamed on some of the other board topics, but it seems to be safe here.

By the way, I completely love jazz. But Ella doesn't do it for me. Now, if Sarah Vaughn or Billie Holiday were involved, that would be a different story!

I knew it. Another mountain climb! Dude, you're hopeless. Please, Larry, there are psychiatrists for these things. Get help before it's too late. You're gonna fall and bust your ass one of these days. Mountains were NOT put on this earth for city slickers to climb. More important than world peace? Climbing a mountain? Hah! Hah! Hah!

Billie Holiday's terrific, but way too much pain and misery for me.

It's suicide for an active professional gay athlete to come out, lose millions of dollars, and endure invasion of their private lives. Why do that? As I've said a thousand times, my advice to the gay pro athlete is to bury themselves in the closet, and stay there until the big contracts stop coming. Fighting for individual rights and freedoms is noble, serves the universal good, but it must be balanced against a once in a lifetime opportunity to realize your dream and earn enough money to secure a better life for you and those you love.



Smokey, I spent an hour writing a response but it didn't post so I'll have to make this short. It doesn't matter if you played in the NBA, you're a Grizzlie insider; privy to inside information; so you have value to us; we love that stuff around here. Also, what does it matter if you're a token gay Grizzlie? There are worse things. Ask Michael Vick about his day. But I'm sorry you were forced to quit the high school basketball team. Male athletes sometimes live in a lockerrom of testosterone, bravado, machismo, and insensitivity, but that's the nature of contact sports. Trust me, many of them are insecure, vulnerable, and uncertain about themselves and their talent, the world around them, and their place in it; just like you and me. I could be wrong (bad people do bad things) but I'd be willing to bet that the majority of those guys were actually decent human beings. Peeking in the lockerrome is natural. Most guys wanna know how they measure up. But when you grow up with a bunch of guys; ball with them; hang out with them, eventually you become like brothers, so physical attractions don't happen. It can't; too much like incest.


Why would the Raptors be concerned about Delfino? He's a good shooter, but Kapono and Parker do it better. Raptors need another inside presence; some one to help CB4 with rebounding and defnese. Delfino is not that guy.

My point was not necessarily about Delfino, himself, but what Toronto thinks. Chris Bosh left the U.S. squad, because he is hurt. Now, Delfino is hurt. Toronto has a lot on guys on FIBA teams. Injuries in the FIBA games can kill your NBA season. For example, Pau Gasol's broken foot last year. Still I think it's an honor to play for your country, and the players should be able to participate. But you know there are some NBA owners and executives who don't feel this way. If Mike Miller makes todays U.S. cut, the Grizzlies will have 4 FIBA players. So we will be watching the FIBAs' closely. I would suspect the Raptors will be watching with the same intensity.




Billie Holiday is one of my all-time favorites. Someone did a new CD of her songs using her vioce as background with dance and techno music. I wonder if I can sue on behalf of her estate. It truly is a crime, and should be punishable by law. The guilty party should be made to pay!(lol)

I find it interesting that the media lumps Mike Miller into the same category as Michael Redd -- as fantastic outside shooters. Is Miller really that good (Redd obviously is)? I think of him as a player who always had a lot of promise, but who has had somewhat uneven results in recent years. If Ray Allen had made himself available, we wouldn't be talking about Miller, of course.

Smokey, I heard about that Billy Holiday desecration as well. Talk about a crime against nature!

Larry, are you talking about Mike Miller? Yes, he is THAT good! Last year, he shot 41% behind the arc. Michael Redd shot 38%. Plus, Miller made more shots; of course, he took more.

Smokey, I think most Canadian basketball fans appreciate international basketball more than the average American basketball fan. Probablty because of the culture. Canada is a melting pot of people of all races, and I think it has more in common (more liberal) with european democracies than it does with us, the United States, which for the last decade has been distancing itself from its european democracies to become more conservative. So, I'm not surprised Canadians enjoy international basketball more than we do.

As for Bosh and Delfino, I'm happy that minor (hopefully) injuries are keeping them out of international competition. Although, with Delfino, given his limited playing time in the NBA, getting more serious minutes against quality competition is not such a bad thing. And as for his skills, I think the Raptors see him as more of a guy who can put the ball on the floor than Kapono or Parker. He may not be Manu Ginobili, but I don't think they see him as strictly a spot up shooter. (I'm still not sure what's going on with Garbajosa. Supposedly he wants to play for Spain but has to get Raptor approval. Personally, I'd prefer he'd sit out.)

Forget it!

Between Spanish Chocolate and Marijuana, er, Mighty Mouse, no contest.

Spanish Chocolate always reminds me of the Spanish Chocolate Variation in Nutcracker. I wonder if Sergio can dance?

Ms. de Blazer that's just no way to be!(lol) I must say I like the moves the Trailblazers have made. This won't be their year, but with the young group of talent they have assembled the future looks brights. I didn't see Rudy Fernandez on your summer league roster, so I guess it's true he's staying in Spain to play this year?

canmark I hear Bryan Colangelo is going to withhold permission for Jorge Garbejosa to play for Spain in the FIBA's. I can say that I blame him. Also heard that Uros Slokar signed with a team in Moscow, so I guess he's out of the NBA for awhile. I must say I love the flavor of the Raptor's team.

LarryC Yes, Mike Miller is that good. He is a gymrat, and he practices shooting drills over and over. I just wish he could learn what tighten of the D meant. I look for him to have an outstanding season this year. With 2 lightnin' fast point guards, Mike won't have to work as hard for his shots. I plan on hearing Mike Miller for "3" a lot this season!

Thomas I do agree with you, teammates do tend to become like brothers (that's a good analogy!). As for the music, I'm eclectic, myself. Marvin is one of my R&B favs, but don't forget Luther Vandross. I think Luther has helped me have more sex than anyone. It was a runnin' joke with my friends (back in my young wild days): If you have Luther on, don't knock on the door, go home!

OK, well you guys have been watching MM play more than I have. But, for the record, I will note that Raja Bell not only made more 3's than Miller while shooting a higher percentage, but Bell actually can play defense. And the unheralded Luther Head (who?) had a higher 3 point shooting percentage while making almost as many as Miller. Ditto Ben Gordon, who can do a lot more than shoot 3's. (Actually, I think Gordon has dual US/UK citizenship, so maybe his eligibility isn't clear)

OK, I'll give you that Raja Bell's defense is way better than Mike's. But on the offensive side remember this: Raja made 205 threes in 78 regular season games and he played with a guy named Steve Nash, who knows how to deliver the ball. Mike had 202 in 70 games. After his 70th game, he came down with a mysterious case on Oden-itis which kept him out for the rest of the season. It was highly contagious in Memphis until after the draft. And to be blunt, Mike was basically playing with himself (so to speak). Luther Head did have a good season for Houston, but he only had 177 threes, and he played in the most games, 80.Don't sell the ugly white boy short, he can ball (and I'm not being racist, I'm white, too.).

Larry, Raja Bell is a tenancious defender when he sets his mind to it. Mike Miller isn't even in the same universe; not defensively. Frankly, I don't know which Grizzlie would qualify as a defensive stopper, in the tradition of Bruce Bowen and Shane Battier; not sure the Grizzlies even had one last year. There's not one of the current roster either, but they have a ton of shooters.

Luther Head is a terrific and fearless shooter, and, one of my favaorite NBA player. I love that guy. But Ben Gordon plays a very high risk game. When on, he can shoot you to victory single handedly, but when his shots aren't falling, he can shoot you out of a game just as easily. I wish he would exercise more patience and work on shot selection, especially in the playoffs.

Here's something that will put a smile on your face. Adonal Foyle signed with the Magic today. First, he got rich from the buyout with GSW; now, he gets to play with Dwight Howard and Rashard Lewis. Lucky bastard.



Lightnin fast PGs? Chucky's gone. Do you think Stoudamire and Mike Conley Jr. are lightnin fast? Stoudamire used to be, but Conley Jr. is both careful and deliberate with the ball. He can run the fast break but he's no Steve Nash, Barbosa, or Devin Harris out there. But he is a very intelligent player.


I've seen Sergio on video. He's fast, quick, and exciting. Even flashy. But NBA coaches are funny. They don't like flash. So they might ask Sergio to tone it down and keep things simple, to reduce his turnovers. That's what they did to White Chocolate. Coaches probably don't mind flash, so long its done with purpose; e.g. Steve Nash, but flash for entertainmnet drives those guys wild. If Oden and Aldridge are the go to guys, I'll bet the Blazers utilize a half court offense, and Spanish Chocolate's job will be to get those big men the ball. Because a PG doesn't need flash to do that, Blazer fans probably won't get to see this kid do his thing.



Canmark, Delfino can take it to the hole. He loves doing that. But he's not a good finisher and gets stuffed a lot. In my opinion, Delfino is a good shooter, but not a go to shooter. He does both well, but neither consistently well. He's just an all round good basketball guy; e.g. in baseball, he would be an everyday guy. I don't know why Mike wanted to turn him into a slasher. He's not quik enough or physical enough, and his handle is adequate at best. The best slashers are TP3, Ginobli, Kobe, DWade, Nash, Barbosa, Devin Harris, Deron Williams, etc. If the Raptors need a slasher, wouldn't T.J. Ford be a better option?

You're right about Luther. I will never forget Here and Now . I can't match your romantic prowess though. Too short; too skinny; too ugly. You're a lucky man.

Mike Conley is one, and Kyle Lowry is the other. Kyle only played in 11 games last year, because he broke a bone in his wrist. Neither one is Steve nash, but they are both young with a lot of potential.


As for Adonal Foyle, I am happy for the guy. Maybe he is so lucky, because he puts such good charma out into the world, it can't help but be return to him.

I'm sure you're just being modest. You probably could have outdone me anyday. Remember beauty is subjective- so there is no such thing as too short, too skinny, or too ugly, in someone's eye you'll be just right. Everyone's tastes are different. I, for one, find Andrei Kirilenko extremely sexy, and my friends don't get it.

Well, at least no one would ever accuse Kirilenko of being too short. I've never seen pictures of him in "civilian clothing." Maybe it's only when he running on the court that he looks like a plucked chicken.

I'm happy for Foyle too. He's one of the more thoughtful and reflective players in the league. It's not his fault that GS decided to massively overpay him for his limited abilities. And he can still block shots; he just can't run in Nellie's offense.

I think with Spanish Chocolate, the key will be to harness, not suppress, his energy and creativity.

Yes, Rudy Fernandez is staying in Spain another year. That's cool because he will get PT and be more ready next year. He's reportedly tearing it up in Euroleague and everyone is anxious to get him over to the Garden of Oden (new unofficial name for Portland's Rose Garden).

Foyle seems to get a lotta love or a lotta hate; no middle ground with this guy. Good will and citizenship is always a good thing, but takes you only so far in the NBA.

Realgm.com is reporting that Reggie Miller has decided not to return to the NBA; Alan Houston has decided to return to the NBA; and Gary Payton is out in Miami. I feel the same way about GP that you guys feel about Foyle. Neither will have much impact with their new team, but both are very likeable.

With so many PGs on that team, it will be interesting to see just how much PT Spanish Chocolate gets. Bet he gets the nod when the Blazers want to run.

Me? Modest? Not my nature. My granddaddy used to say, "everybody's pretty to somebody", but he never met AK47. Gotta go with Larry on this one: "plucked chicken" seems about right. But he's a downright fierce weak side defender in the paint.

Despite an opening loss to Brazil (Barbosa, Nene, Tiago Splitter), Team Canada has rebounded with 2 victories over weaker teams (Venezuela and US Virgin Islands) and sit with a solid 2-1 record at the FIBA Americas Championships. Strong performances by Samuel Dalembert (10/10, 18/8, 15/8), Juan Mendez and Carl English. Go Canada!

Canmark, I saw the score in Team Canada's 50 pt loss to Team USA today. Sorry about that. But at least both teams made it to the next round. Time for Team Canada to give Steve Nash a call?

Other NBA News:

James Posey signed a 2-year $7M contract with the Boston Celtics today. What the hell has come over Danny Ainge? One season he's a gullible idiot, the next he's Red Auerbach. First Ray Allen, then Kevin Garnett; now, he's got arguably the best combo forward in the East. Now, Pierce and KG won't need to play so many minutes, so they can stay healthy deep into the season. If the Celtics had a premiere PG and a better center, they could waltz into the playoffs. Even with their deficiencies, Boston is going to be hard to stop.

Canada doesn't expect to win this tournament, but I think if we finish in the top 5 we qualify for the Olympics qualifier next year, which will give us another chance to make it to the Olympics (and compete against foreign competition). At our level, we just want to compete and grow the program. There's no expectation of medalling. But unless you can progress in the rounds and the qualifiers, you're not getting the exposure. And that's what we want: the chance to play against our betters and learn how to improve our game.

On the plus side, Olumuyiwa Famutimi had a solid 17-point game. The main scorers were given limited minutes (Dalembert, 22min; Mendez, 12min; English, 21min), and all the scrubs were allowed to play against Team USA, as Coach Rautins knew there was no chance of winning.

Posey is a nice pickup for the Celtics, assuming age hasn't sapped his many skills. And the price was right.

I am very very glad that Reggie Miller woke up one recent morning and met Reality. There's absolutely no need to tarnish the image, which is all that a comeback would have done.

You are sooooo right! Reggie and Pacer go together. No sense in messing up his Indiana legacy with a comeback attempt.

As for Posey, I think that's a great move by the Celtics, and the price was right. Posey will be the key to the Celtics second unit, and he's a defensive stopper. Like him or not, when he got his head on straight, he can be a difference maker. I believe he's got a couple of good years left, and barring a major catastrophe, Boston should make it to the NBA finals.

canmark I always thought Olu should have stayed at Arkansas a couple more years, instead of entering the draft. I'm sure Stan Heath would agree with me, too! Famutimi just was not ready to make the jump. He and Ronnie Brewer would have made an excellent tandem, as they matured. Too bad for my Razorbacks, though I must say I've had a screw 'em mentality since Frank Broyles did Nolan Richardson so wrong. Hopefully, Frank will be gone soon (he's suppose to retire at the end of the year), and some pride can be restored in the Razorback Atheletic program. Still, it's nice to see Olu playing so well for Team Canada. Maybe, he can latch on to an NBA team this year and leave the D-League behind. It also made me smile to see Nolan coaching Team Mexico!!

For those of you who have been dying to see Dallas Mavericks' owner Mark Cuban tango, samba, rhumba and otherwise shake his bonbon, rumor has it that he will be on the next season of Dancing with the Stars.

You couldn't get me to watch that show if you pointed a gun at my head.

Larry , Pat Riley is working his ass off to get Michael Pietrus, but GSW won't budge at all. Honestly, you can't balme them. The $3.4M Qualifying O from GSW will probably stand up. Pat Riley and the Heat are up against it. The Heat can't make any moves that would place them in luxury tax hell; they already used their MLE; they want desperately to move Doleac, but GSW doesn't want or need him; and, they can't sign Pietrus outright. The Warriors have indicated a willingness to work a sign-and-trade with Miami but they want Dorell Wright and/or White Chocolate included. That doesn't sit well with Pat Riley. You can't really blame either team for sticking to their guns. Pat would be a fool to part with one of the Heat's few productive young players in Dorell Wright, and, if he sweetens the deal by dangling White Chocolate, the Heat could end up with Smush Parker as their starting PG. That has to scare Pat something awful.

GSW has nothing to gain via a sign-and-trade with the Heat. Even if the Warriors do nothing, they get to keep Pietrus for one more year because nobody's gonna match that $3.4M qualifying offer, and even if another team offers more, the Warriors can match it if they want. If Pietrus stays with GSW next season, he'll have to put up some big numbers to demand the big bucks in 2008 when he becomes an unrestricted free agent. I love Pat Riley but he's up against it on this one. He simply doesn't have the right pieces to negotiate for Pietrus, and, he doesn't have the money to win a bidding war with GSW for Pietrus. I feel bad for Pat. He's usually pretty good at working the system to his advantage but not this time.

George , I watched Jerry Rice and Emmit Smith a couple times. Neither dances very well and I didn't recognize any of the dances, so I stopped watching. Can Mark Cuban really dance or is this a publicity stunt?

Canmark , you surprise me. Its hard to believe that you ascribe to the old adage "its not whether you win or lose but how you play the game". Thinking such thoughts is a defeat in itself because winners don't think that way. Team Canada is undermanned but I assure you they can play better if they set their minds to it.

Smokey I doubt we'll ever see "forty minutes of hell" on the hardwood again; not in Little Rock. Those were the good old days.

I don't watch the show at all. But regarding Cuban's abilities, I heard yesterday on PTI Wilbon said that Cuban taught a disco dance class while a student in college (Indiana University I believe). So maybe the guy does have some moves.

Team Canada defeated Uraguay yesterday, furthering their chances at the Top 5. I read in the paper that 1 and 2 automatically advance to the Olympics and 3, 4, 5 make it to a world qualifier next year. And that's what Canada's hoping for. The 5 spot.

Next up: Argentina, led by new Raptor Carlos Delfino, who's scored 19, 19 and 20 in his past 3 games.

I don't feel one pity of sympathy for the Heat. After screwing two teams (the Nets and Raptors), Alonzo Mourning gifted himself to Miami as a carpetbagger. Without lucking into Alonzo, Miami never would have won the championship in 2006. On the other hand, I'm surprised that Doleac doesn't have some market value (not to GSW, but to one of the traditional center-starved teams out there). He was a pretty good backup center when he played. But with Shaq and Mourning in front of him, Doleac isn't getting any burn time for the Heat.

On the other note, I think I'd rather watch Baryshnikov play football than have to endure Jerry Rice dancing.

Larry, Larry, don't you feel any sympathy for the Heat? They haven't been able to do much of anything this off-season. It's a good thing they still have Shaq and Dwade; if not for those two, Heat would lose a ton of games, especially if Dwade, White Chocolate, and Shaq aren't 100%.

On a different subject, Xmas came early for Kevin Martin. He just signed a 5-year, $55M contract with the Kings. You know him better than I do, but I did watch him play a couple times last year and he looked damn good; real sweet jump shot, but $11M/year? That's superstar money. KM is not yet a superstar, so I think the Kings overpaid on this one...


Oops! Another loss for team Canada This time it was Argentina that did them in. But most of us expected this loss. USA still looking good though, especially Kidd.


Some of the couples look pretty good and dance ok but watching your sports heroes prance around in tights? That's asking way too much. They fare better on Saturday Night Live....Peyton and Brady were actually kinda funny....

I agree -- it is an awful lot to pay for someone who's only real talent is outside shooting. But Petrie is a smart guy, so I guess he's paying on potential. Martin has taken huge leaps forward in each of the past 2 years, and he's still very young.


I'm loving the way Kobe is showing the way with his defense. He's proving that he's as good defensively as just about anyone on the planet. The problem during the NBA season is that he's too busy proving he's the best offensively (although given the dearth of scoring options on the Lakers, he really has to).


Mark Cuban is going to wear tights? I hope the FCC's censorship division will look into this. Maybe Cuban can do a pas de deux with David Stern. (Now Stern in tights would really be a sight).

The good news in Canada's loss to Argentina - for Raptors fans at least - is the continuing excellent play of Carlos Delfino. This from the Toronto Star's story on Canada's loss.
*******
Carlos Delfino began the Tournament of the Americas Olympic qualification basketball event a marked man, asked to provide leadership to a relatively young Argentina team missing its greatest stars. There were other concerns that hit much closer to home for Raptor fans, too, and the recently acquired swingman has calmed them – and handled his patriotic duties with aplomb – in a breakout tournament. Despite missing regulars Manu Ginobili, Andres Nocioni and Fabricio Oberto, Argentina has taken no steps back in the tournament, thanks in great part to the play of Delfino.

The 6-foot-7 Delfino, who has helped Argentina stay unbeaten after a 85-70 thrashing of Canada in Las Vegas last night, has given Raptor president and general manager Bryan Colangelo much to be happy about a month or so from the beginning of training camp. "He's displayed a great ability to run a team," Colangelo said yesterday. "Even if he isn't the point guard on the floor, they're running a lot of the offence through him and he's handling it well."

Delfino, who played primarily shooting guard and small forward for three seasons in Detroit before being obtained by Toronto for a second-round draft pick, had 15 points against Canada last night in a typically strong game. He's averaging more than 18 points, better than seven rebounds and about five assists for the Argentines.
********
So maybe this will be a repeat of last year in some ways - when the Raptors benefited from greatly improved confident play from Jose Calderon after his solid performance in Spain's gold medal run at the World championships last year. And speaking of cutey Jose - he will be playing for Spain starting next week at the European championships. His Raptor teammate and fellow Spaniard Garbajosa will have to cheer him on from the sidelines after the Raptors' doctors decided he is still not recovered sufficiently from his horrific season ending injury last season to play yet.

,

Its kinda strange the Kings would dedicate such large chunks of their payroll to its backcourt; Bibby and Martin. I would think Artest is more deserving of a contract extention.


Larry, you're preaching to the choir. I doubt you'd find any serious NBA fan questioning Kobe's defensive prowess. He is, and has been for years, one of top two defenders in the NBA. He might even be as good as Bowen if he'd learn how to use his knees, elbows, hands, feet, and ass on defense.

Please, Larry. Don't ask me to picture Mark Cuban in tights. I drink too much as is.

More NBA News: Xi Jianlian signed with the Milwaukee Bucs today. The two are reportedly working out the terms of his contract, but I'm not sure what that means since Xi must sign a rookie contract anyway. Right? Plus, I thought he didn't want to play in Milwaukee anyway. What changed his mind? Bucs boards are saying he was promised playing time, but is Xi, with no NBA experience, a better PF than Charlie Villuaneau, a veteran NBA PF? I doubt it. I'm curious about something though: are the Bucs on the hook to buy out Xi's existing contract? And exactly what did Stern promise China in exchange for Xi?

LA Clippers inked Reuben Patterson today . Not sure how to read this one, since the Clippers need a PG (Casell won't last; apparently Shawn Livingston is not ready; and Brevin Knight is an everyday PG) and a PF/C (to replace Elton Brand). So, I don't see how the acquisition of Reuben Patterson solves those two problems, unless the Clippers plan to make some more moves. I guess this means we must officially stop with the Nanny Stopper jokes?

Pat, you are entitled to your opinion, as always, but, I watched Delfino play multiple times last season and IMO, he and Billups exhibited defensive lapses at inopportune times; especially in the playoffs. LBJ had his way with both Delfino and Tayshaun. In addition, he's a streaky shooter and IMO is way too aggressive attacking the basket, so doesn't finish. I've been reading the stttats too, so I know he's playing well in the tournament but i can't get as excited as you and Canmark because his level of play in the tournament is vastly superior to what I watched in the NBA playoffs last season. But for the Raptors' sake, I hope the Delfino we see in FIBA is real and lasts throughout next season. With Boston, Detroit, Chicago, and Cavs nipping at your heels, the Raptors will need every single player to play his best.

There are lots of rumors that U.S. Senator Herb Kohl (incidentally, owner of the Bucks) promised Yi and the Chinese basketball czars that Yi would play 20 minutes a game. (That, and Kohl would vote against Taiwan on every Senate bill that came up.) If so, that's a horrible decision for everyone. There's no way the skinny Yi is going to be ready to play major minutes. He needs time to adjust to the NBA game and to build up his strength to bang with power forwards.

I think the Clippers simply resigned themselves to the fact that there wasn't anyone on the market who could further help at PG or "replace" Brand (unless they believed the 94 year old Charles Oakley that he could still play). Patterson seems to be more law-abiding than in his wild Jail-Blazer days. And that is befitting, since Portland has also completely changed its image.


Hard to believe, but it seems the East could actually be interesting next year. A lot of people are putting the Nets in that first tier too, but I think that's an overstatement -- they are just too thin. But if the Bucks stay healthy for once, and promising young players like Villaneuva and Simmons (most improved player of 2005-2006) continue to improve, Milwaukee might be another heel-nipper.

It's Ruben, not Reuben, Patterson. He's on his 6th team, and took most of the summer to get his first offer. Tells you something about the man.

I hope he doesn't forget to register his new address, which as a registered sex offender he is required to do.

In more cheerful news, virtually the entire Blazers team, invited by reigning ROY Brandon Roy, gathered in Portland a week ago and are spending the month, well before training camp and without paychecks, working with coaches and running 5 on 5 scrimmages.

Also, Greg Oden was taken car shopping by LaMarcus Aldridge; Oden was still driving his mother's Ford Taurus.

Or maybe it just tells us how desperate the Clippers (and the Heat) are for a backup PG. Damn, I iwsh I lived in Portland. You guys are so lucky to have such a young, vibrant, and eager bunch of players. Blazer games will be a ton of fun next season.

So much for playing your way into the starting lineup. One day, I hope to know the business side of the NBA/Chinese connection, because its beginning to confuse me. In fairness, I haven't seen what Yi can do, so can't say much against him, but its just hard to believe that he could guard the likes of Howard, Nowitzski, Sheed, TD1, and CB4. If Yi's defense is anything like Yao Ming's defense, the Bucs are in a world of trouble because Yao's defense in last year's playoffs was awful. Yao has a nice touch on his jumper, but he's shamefully slow-footed at times. Anyway, it just seems to me that the NBA and the Chinese are using basketball for political and financial gain. For the good of the game? I wonder.

Clippers are done. With the Mavs, Roxs, Spurs, Lakers, Nuggets, Jazz, Suns, and Warriors shoe-ins for the playoffs, Clippers will be on the outside looking in.

The Bucs in the playoffs? With a skinny rookie PF (Yi) promised 20 minutes per game, and, no proven PG? Sure it could happen; I thought they'd make the playoffs last season but injuries took them out, but I wouldn't bet on seeing the Bucs in the playoffs this year. The Nets make the playoffs? Jason Kidd is as good as they come, but where's his help? Larry, you should know by now that Vinsanity doesn't do playoffs.

-- I love the fact that Oden was driving a Taurus -- I wish he would keep it. Contrast with "King James," who was driving a Hummer while he was still in high school.

-- Ruben Patterson is many things, but a backup PG he ain't. It is curious the Clippers are signing him since they already have Maggette at his position. And Coach Dunleavy supposedly patched up his well-publicized feud with Maggette and supposedly would be happily starting him. They still have Quinton Ross to sub in for defense. In any event, Thomas, you're right -- without Brand (for at least several months) and Livingston, and with a hobbled Cassell, the Clippers are not in contention for the playoffs. Heck, they might not even make the playoffs if they were in the East.

-- As for the Bucks (not the Bucs -- I agree there's no way Tampa Bay is making the playoffs), they did pretty well by re-signing Mo Williams. He's no Steve Nash, but he showed he's a pretty decent PG. And who knows if Yi is really going to play 20 minutes a game. If he gets his teeth knocked out early by some PF twice his weight, I don't think he's going to insist on being reinserted in the 4th quarter.

-- Vinsanity makes the playoffs. He just vanishes once he's there.

Agree, Ruben Patterson is not a point guard. He's a forward. Had it not been for his bad head he'd be a valued bench player who brings energy. But he's a locker room cancer, has trouble staying out of trouble, overvalues his abilities and says too many really stupid things that become locker room bulletin board material for opponents (i.e. "I'm the Kobe Stopper" "The Mavs are scared")

I would not call either the Nuggets or the Warriors locks for the playoffs. The Nuggets have to see how well Anthony and Iverson coexist for a full year. The Warriors may be better in the long run for the Jason Richardson deal, but in the short term they lost their top scorer and are putting a lot of pressure on the oft-injured Baron Davis. And Don Nelson's contract situation is up in the air. I'd say they are cusp teams.

Rudy Fernandez, who should join the Blazers next year, was named young player of the year by the Euro Leagues.

It's been a long long time since anyone envied us Portland fans! Not only did the team add a franchise player to a solid young nucleus, turns out Oden is a sweetie! He reminds me of my cat Orlando (don't laugh), big, happy, good natured, high energy, enjoyable, lively, smart, affectionate. Except Orlando still has his tonsils and Oden still has his nuts!

Larry, I like Mo. You know that. But he's not a championship caliber PG. Bucks will go only as far as their SGs and SFs take them. That's the strength of that team. Bucks have huge problems at the center and PF positions. There's too many bucs in pro sports anyway. Not just the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but the Pittsburg Pirates, and, the Milwaukee Bucks. Hard to know when to use the bucs or bucks.

Ruben is a forward. His value to the Clippers will be on defense and rebounding. He's fearless; that's for sure, but courage alone won't get them to the playoffs. Clippers have the same problem as the Bucks; no championship caliber PG and a very soft front line.

Cavs are reportedly trying to sign Allan Houston. I hope it happens.

What is it with Ms deBlazer and tonsils?

No Ms deBlazer. Nuggets will make the playoffs; Melo and AI are simply too good to not make the playoffs. You could be right about the Warriors, but I don't think so. They still got Biedrins, Harington, Barnes, SJax, and Biddy. Monta is still lthere and Brendan Wright is a promising rookie. But if Nellie leaves, all bets are off. Nellie built that team for speed. They can't slow it down and they sure as hell can't out-physical anybody. But if the GSW don't make the playoffs, then yeah, the Blazers will...

Huh????? Oden wasn't given the choice, but if given the choice, trust me, he'd choose the latter. Who wouldn't? But thanx for posting that. LMAO.

Team Canada finished 5th in the Fiba Americas tournment which qualifies them for the Olympics qualifier next year. Apparently, 3 of 12 teams "(four from Europe, three from FIBA Americas, two each from Asia and Africa and one from Oceania)" will qualify for Beijing, in addition to the other regional winners (ie. #1 and 2 from Fiba America) and China, which qualifies as the host country.

Who's talking Bucks and championship? Of course there's no way they're a contender, but Mo is good enough to get them into the playoffs...if everything goes right.

Allan Houston could probably beat anyone in the league at a game of H-O-R-S-E (except maybe Ray Allen and Michael Redd). But, Thomas, as you know, I'm no believer in this comeback craze. Maybe, just maybe, Houston's knees are back to 100% and can withstand a full season of pounding in practice and in games, but then maybe Yi Jianlian will be this year's MVP and carry the Bucks to the championship.

I agree the Nuggets are playoff bound, although a big question mark is whether they get anything at all out of KMart this season, and whether KMart unjustly steals playing time from an improving Nene. The Warriors are anyone's guess. I still think they were a bit of a fluke last season (getting incredibly hot just at the right time). If Nellie doesn't come back, then I'd count them out. I still wouldn't count the Blazers in, though. As incredibly bright as their future is, they need more seasoning.

Finally, I'm surprised we haven't had any comments yet about "Orlando-izing" Ruben Patterson. Too late for that, I guess.

The Western Conference is still stacked, but the Eastern Conference is getting stronger.

My predictions for the West are as follows (my predictions for W-L):
Southwest still the toughest division in the NBA.
1. San Antonio Spurs: (61-21) The Spurs won the whole thing last year. They are still strong, have their nucleus intact, and added another defensive-minded veteran in Ime Udoka. The only move I thought was a serious mistake was giving Houston Luis Scola.

2. Dallas Mavericks: (59-23) The Mavs won 67 games last season, only to have Golden State send them packing from the playoffs. Eddie Jones is their only signiificant pickup so far, and I wouldn't call that major. Resigning Diop and Stackhouse is major, but went relatively unnoticed. Cuban has been too quite this off-season, and that's not natural. I look for some move before training camp, but if not Dallas is still solid and one of the elite teams in the NBA.

3. Houston Rockets: (51-31) The Spurs gave them a gift in Luis Scola. They have had a good off-season picking up Steve Francis for pennies on the dollar and Mike James, though I'm not a fan of either one of those. Rick Adelman should be pleased with his new coaching job. If Bonzi Wells can get his head on straight, Rocket fans will be smiling all season. Starting five of Francis, McGrady, Battier, Scola and Yao with James, Wells, and Hayes coming off the bench, now that's scary. But what do you do with Skip-to-my-lou?

4. Memphis Grizzlies: (42-40) Yes, I'm a homer, but the Grizzlies will be the surprise team of the NBA. Adding Darko Milicic, Juan Carlos Navarro, and Mike Conley, Jr.along with new coach Marc Iavaroni has made me happier than any off-season has in a while. Hopefully, Jerry West is still really pulling the strings {pay no attention to the man behind the curtain}. If not, don't tell me. Let me keep my fantasy alive!

5. New Orleans Hornets: (29-53) I believe the Hornets will be a surprise, but for the wrong reasons. I love Chris Paul's game and Tyson Chandler is a rebounding machine, but the return to New Orleans won't be sweet for the Hornets. Peja Stojakovic and Bobby Jackson are just injuries waiting to happen. Signing Mo Peterson wasn't bad, but he won't take them to the next level. And as far as I know, the Hornets have not signed their draft pick, Julian Wright (someone else I'm not impressed with) as of yet. I could be wrong, but I don't remember reading about him signing his rookie contract.

I'll try and give my picks for the Pacific and NorthWest divisions tomorrow.

Pacific division will be won by the Suns.

1. Phoenix Suns: (62-20) Steve Nash isn't getting any younger, but is still the best point guard in the NBA. The way the Suns were ousted from the playoffs should provide them with the drive and hunger to be the best team in the NBA this year. Steve Kerr has made some off the wall moves so far as the new GM, but understandable since payroll is a big concern in Phoenix. All the major players are still intact, and Grant Hillhas been brought in to add to the firepower. Still one of the elite teams in the NBA. Only down side I see is the Suns only have 3 guys taller than 6'8", and two of them are Sean Marks and Pat Burke. I look for the Suns to sign PJ Brown in the coming days to help resolve that problem.

2. Los Angeles Lakers: (42-40) Kobe Bryant is still the best player in the NBA, not MVP, but best player. True the Lakers have not made any significant moves this off-season. Luckily for them, Derek Fisher fell into their laps. His leadership should help build the young players in LA. {Don't say anything bad about Fish, I love his mother, Annette, and tend to take things personal on her behalf! }. While not an elite team in the NBA, any team with Kobe Bryant is going to be good.

3. Golden State Warriors: (38-44) The Warriors are one of the teams I'm most looking forward to seeing this season. But with the coaching situation with Don Nelson, unresolved, Matt Barnes unhappy about not being offered a big contract, Jasikevicus, unhappy about his role on the team and playing time, things will not be easy for the Warriors. I love the pickups of Marco Belinelli, Kosta Perovic, and Branden Wright, nice rookie class. I don't understand the pickup of Austin Croshere, but what do I know? Baron Davis tends to stay injured too much, and the Warriors will be on the outside looking in on the playoffs this year.

4. Sacramento Kings: (23-59) It won't be a good year for the Kings. It's time to rebuild, and this season will make that evident. I look for either or both Mike Bibby and Ron Artest to be traded. Mikki Moore had a good season with the Nets last year, but doesn't bring much to the table. I really have not made up my mind on Spencer Hawes, yet. He probably would not have been my draft choice. Two words for Kings' fans : Rebuild and Reload!

5. Los Angeles Clippers: (21-61) Elton Brand and Shaun Livingston are out with injuries. Sam Cassell ain't being no younger. I can see why they picked up Brevin Knight, but he has always been on a losing team. Ruben Patterson, I don't understand. Maybe, time will give me enlightenment. I like the rookies Al Thornton and Jared Jordan, but don't see an immediate impact provided by either one. I look for the Clippers to play the lottery game this season.

Smokey, that (and your Pacific rundown) was as terrific a capsule analysis as I've seen from any sports writer! Your analysis of each team's moves really hit the nail on the head. Thanks for taking the first crack at this -- you've made it much easier for the rest of us.

I'm not insightful enough to project W-L records, so I'll just comment on your projected order of finish.

1. As Thomas might say, the Spurs don't "do" the regular season. Tim Duncan will lie in the weeds until the second half of the year to preserve himself (sort of a less capricious/selfish version of what Shaq has been doing for most of his career), and San Antonion will be happy to let Dallas run away with the #1 seed in the West again. But the Spurs are still the best team in the league. On the other hand, WTF was with gifting Scola to the Rockets?

2. Dallas will win the division but lose the war. I can't believe Cuban hasn't made any moves yet (other than in his spandex tutu). The Mavs need an injection of toughness and confidence in the worst way. Watching Cuban shake his bonbon on Dancing With the Stars ain't going to do it.

3. Houston was the big winner of the off-season. I still can't fathom why the Spurs gave away Scola, thereby immeasurably helping a division rival. All SA got back was that Spanoulis wash-out, and then he signs with a team in Europe anyway! I've always thought the Spurs were the smartest organization in pro sports, but boy did they have a brain lock on that one.

If McGrady and Yao stay healthy (yeah, the same old story...), I really like Houston's chances. I know Thomas keeps knocking Yao's defense, but I think he's the best "true" center in the league by far -- before he got injured last season, his numbers were MVP level. And McGrady may have the "gravitas" to keep Steve Francis and Mike James in line.
...
945. Well, from there it is a HUGE dropoff. Neither of the division also-rans are anywhere near the level of the top three. But, Smokey, I'm afraid I'd place the Hornets above the Grizzlies. I love Chris Paul -- he's only going to get better. Same with Chandler. Mo Pete gives them some of the outside shooting they thought they were buying with Stojakovic. And if N.O. gets anything significant out of the real Peja, they make the playoffs.

946. Mike Conley will be a fine point guard some day. Just not any day this season. And Darko will make a fine trophy above someone's fireplace mantle. Sorry, I don't see Memphis hitting either .500 or the playoffs this season.

1. Picking the Suns to win this division is like picking the sun to rise tomorrow. The only real question is how far Phoenix goes this year. I am still appalled that they gave away Kurt Thomas, and even more appalled that they gave away two first-round draft picks for nothing just for the right to give Kurt Thomas away for nothing. (Is this some kind of W.C. Field joke?) And I'm appalled that they've been selling their draft picks for the past several years. It's almost enough to make me respect the Knicks' willingness to flout the salary cap.

All that said, I'm very tempted to go out on a limb and predict that Phoenix will win the championship this year. It's now or never for Steve Nash, and it's Amare's chance to show he's da man. But they will need a heap of luck, like making it through the playoffs without a single injury; they are ridiculously thin, especially now after giving Kurt Thomas away. In any event, I don't think they should try to win 60 games this season -- they need to save themselves for the post-season.

2. Well, if I said it was a huge dropoff after the top 3 in the Midwest, it's like a drop off of El Capitan here. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if none of the other Pacific teams even make the playoffs. Kobe might be in such a funk this year, his normally indomitable will alone won't be enough. So I guess if I had to choose, I'd pick GS for #2. But only if Don Nelson comes back -- if not, GS might as well just cancel the season.

3. The Warriors sign Austin Croshere? The Warriors sign Austin Croshere? The Warriors sign Austin Croshere?? The Warriors sign Austin Croshere!!! Has Chris Mullin taken up drinking again, or is this someone's idea of a cosmic joke? (Incidentally, when Baron Davis gets injured for the 753rd time, GS is going to miss Jason Richardson something awful.)

4. Sacramento sucks, so I'm picking Elton Brand to shock everyone by coming back in February and carrying the Clippers to a next-to-last finish. Because Sacramento sucks.

5. Did I mention that Sacramento sucks? And if Spencer Hawes makes one more comment about how proud he is of being an uber-right-wing Republican, I'll be rooting for him to be arrested in a bathroom at LAX.

Last but not least division of the Western Conference, the Northwest:

1. Utah Jazz: (50-32) Jerry Sloandidn't shake up his roster too much. Rafael Araujo headed off to play in Russia, Taking his roster spot will be Kyrylo Fesenko, Picking up both Ronnie Price and Jason Hart leaves no room for Dee Brown Meanwhile, rookie Morris Almond looks for a way pickup some playing times this season. Jerry Sloan coached teams are very disciplined, and that discipline will lead them to cream of the crop in the Northwestdivision.

2. Denver Nuggets: (44-38) Anthony and Iverson are going to have to be on the same page for the Nuggets to be in the playoff chase. The Nuggets pickup the point guard out of Memphis, Chucky Atkins. Chucky is a shoot first , ask questions later type point guard. Teams won't be able to cheat defense away from him, or he'll make them pay. Team Chemisty will determine the team's success or lack there of. Where will K-Martfit in? in Nenes spot? Is there enough ball to go around in Denver? Time will only tell.

3. Portland Trailblazers: (34-48) The Blazers are another team I look forward to seeing this season. I think it's great they are practicing on their own a month before pre-season starts. Portland has lived to see a new day. Gone are the Jailblazers, but to stay are the Trail blazers. The team is going to be exciting to watch. Greg Oden is the league's next premier center. Brandon Roy returns as last years Rookie of the Year. Steve Blake has returned to Portland, to team up with Jarret Jack and Sergio Rodriquez to compete for the starting point guard job. Channing Frye finds a new home in the great Northwest, which I think he'll find to his liking. Portland is young and will take a few knocks these year, but don't feel to sorry for them. They will be an elite team in the next couple of years.

4. Seattle Supersonics: (23-59) Seattle is another team that is going to be exciting to watch. Yes, this is a rebuilding year, but what a way to rebuild with two great rookies: kevin Durant and Jeff Green. Delonte West will be running the show, and veterans like Kurt Thomas and Wally Szczebiak will be showing the new kids the ropes. Bye Ray Allen, Bye Rashard Lewis, there's a new breed of sonics and they are super. Give them a couple of years,and they along with the Portland Trailblazers will be talking dynasties of their own.

5. Minnesota Timberwolves: (12-70) I look for the Wolves to be beat around worse than any other team in the league. The Great Kevin Garnett is gone, and Troy Hudson has been bought out. Juwan Howard, who came over in the Mike James trade to Houston, already is wishing to be traded. Though things may seem blink now, the outlook will improve over the next few years. Mchale has amass a great group of young talent : Randy Foye, Al Jefferson, Gerald Green, Ryan Gomes and of course Corey Brewer. They will take their lumps this year, but will be giving them out in the next future. The one thing I would suggest to Kevin McHale is that he try and trade Rickey Davis. He is not the kind of guy you want your young kids to emulate.

SO basically that's the way I see the wild, wild west:

1. Phoenix Suns (62-20)
2. San Antonio Spurs (61-21)
3. Dallas Mavericks (59-23)
4. Houston Rockets (51-31)
5. Utah Jazz (50-32)
6. Denver Nuggets (44-38)
7. Los Angeles Lakers (42-40)
8. Memphis Grizzlies (42-40)

Outside the playoffs looking in:

9. Golden State Warriors (38-44)
10.Portland Trailblazers (34-48)
11.New Orleans Hornets (29-53)
12.Seattle Supersonics (23-59)
13.Sacramento Kings (23-59)
14.Los Angeles Clippers (21-61)
15.Minnesota Timberwolves (12-70)

That's just the way I see it. Things can alway changes. Injuries and Trades can turn all my predictions upside down! Still, no matter how you look at it, it going to be a great season, and I'm ready to get it started!!