All This NFL Talk Gets Us Nowhere

I know I went off on a form of a rant regarding the NFL players and how through their own words they're not helping their cause in the court of public opinion. This isn't a retraction or an extension of that.

This post differs from that. Greatly.

Let me ask you this. Are you really thinking of all these NFL players and owners right now? Seriously think about your answer here. I'm not in any way. If you're an NFL fan and only an NFL fan, you most likely are. You're fretting that with all the disdain, there is a chance there's no 2011 season or at the least, a loss of some games. What if you're not? What if you're just the "average sports fan"?

This won't hit you yet. Depending on your cup of tea for this time of the year, you have the NCAA men's and women's tourneys. You have spring training beginning to wind down and baseball's opening day a scant nine days away. The NHL is making its push for the playoffs. Matt Cooke won't be playing, though. Arnie's hosting his tournament at Bay Hill this week. Tiger and Phil are among those entered. The NBA is also making a playoff push and Derrick Rose has been fabulous so far this year. The MLS season has started and the leagues over in Europe are having their season ending pushes for avoiding relegation or making the Champions League or being promoted.

You see, it's not all about the NFL. There are other avenues to explore within the sports spectrum. I'm well aware the NFL is being touted as being at an all-time high. Is it now? It actually might be at an all-time low because of the labor strife. But you know something. Let those that could determine its fate do such.

We don't need an update every 15 freakin' minutes about the discord. About the disconnect. We don't need it from ESPN, FOX, CBS or any other outlet as far as that goes. Yes, blogs included.

It amazes me that some media feel we need to see a group of players seated ever so precisely being interviewed and condemning those that have given them the opportunity to make a lot of coin. It's disconcerting. Ever there was ever an instance of something appearing staged, that was it.

The owners aren't in the clear either. I understand they want more money in their pockets. I don't understand denying those that made you your little cache of bills from having a healthy life after their short careers. You say tomato, I say tomahto.

No, I'm not against the players. I'm not against the owners either. Bring up all the millionaires arguing with billionaires BS you want.

Point is, it's March. The NFL should be taking a back seat for now to all the other great sporting events we have. It's a shame the sports outlets won't enjoy those.

Hating on the Heat Becoming America's Hobby

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

As a fan of the Cleveland Cavaliers (yes, even post LeBron), I have to confess that there's a part of me that greatly enjoys seeing the Miami Heat in its current state. I'm pretty sure I'm far from the only one taking that stand.

Well, Dwayne Wade believes that's the case.

“The Miami Heat are exactly what everyone wanted, losing games,” Wade said. “The world is better now because the Heat is losing.”

From my view, Wade couldn't be more on point with his statement. The Heat have more than their fair share of haters. By the same token, I think Wade is missing a point or two here.

First, don't play the pity card. It's not becoming one bit. Second, the basketball world has every right to express its hatred of the Heat. Every last right. Follow along here.

Why all the hate for Miami? The answer is simple. Ego.

Let's look back at where the hating all began. It didn't begin with Wade. It didn't even begin with Chris Bosh. It began with LBJ and "The Decision". It's flowed fervently from there ever since. The cockiness and arrogance of how that charade went down not only left a city and a franchised spurned, it left the door completely open for hatred to enter.

And has it ever entered. It's harshness completely felt in the aftermath of a fourth straight defeat.

But that alone isn't it. It's the "festivities" that ensued.

It's Called the 'Retweet' Button, LeBron

Image by __Dori__ via Flickr

Karma.Exactly what is karma? According to Google Dictionary:
Synonyms:
noun: fortune, fate, destiny

1. (in Hinduism and Buddhism) The sum of a person's actions in this and previous states of existence, viewed as deciding their fate in future existences
2. Destiny or fate, following as effect from cause

Take it for what you will. And most of you know where I'm going with this.

After the Cleveland Cavaliers suffered a major shellacking on Tuesday night at the hands of the Los Angeles Lakers, former Cavs player turned Heat player turned villian, LeBron James submitted a tweet he probably wishes he hadn't.

"Karma is a b----.., Gets you every time. Its not good to wish bad on anybody. God sees everything!"

And that could very well be why LeBron suffered a bit of his own karma last night in the form of a 111-105 loss to...the Los Angeles Clippers. Yes, the Clippers. To pile on, James tweaked an ankle in the loss.

But the fun started after the game when James was questioned about his tweet. According to Bill Reiter of FOXSports, James meant no harm in his now infamous tweet:

"I don't think there was no intent at all," he said. "I think everyone looks into everything that I say. And everybody looked too far into it. But there wasn't no intent at all."

What we have here is the double negative. That leads to prove positive. Which would mean he did mean the tweet in a spiteful manner, right?

In LeBron's defense comments, he was adamant that no harm was meant toward the Cavs.

"Like I said, it wasn't no hit at that franchise, no hit at that team," LeBron said. "Especially those players. At all."

Reiter extols that the hit may have been meant for Cavs owner Dan Gilbert. That I would believe until I heard from where the "comment" emanated.

"It was just how I was feeling at the time," he said. "It wasn't even a comment from me. It was someone who sent it to me and I sent it out. But like I said, it wasn't toward that team. It definitely wasn't a good showing by that team last night, and I know they wish they would have played better, but nothing towards them."

LeBron has people, doesn't he? You would think at least one of them would inform him of the "retweet" button. I can find it. It's not hidden. I use it on occasion.

Or is this just a way for James to deflect the issue away from him. Maybe that villian role is settling in on him all that well.

All This for What? Over the Heat?

Is everyone ready? Are you truly ready to have the newest love fest the mainstream sports media feels we can't live without? Well, it's happening whether you like it or not.

I present to you the WWL's latest "thing" to latch onto...the Miami Heat. After all, even with football season being in full swing, there's no coverage of Tim Tebow, so ESPN must supplement us with yet another. Why not the Heat?

Yes, we will be subjected to "expanded" coverage of a team that has done nothing. We will hear sound bites. We will see video...of training camp. We will see pressers. We will hear non-ending analysis. Again, these guys have accomplished nothing but raise the ire of NBA fans. How quaint that ESPN feels our thirst for this ego-driven trio is that unending. Most NBA fans could care less.

ESPN even dispatched a crew to cover the Heat media day and the opening of camp. Correct me if I'm wrong here but didn't the Heat lose in the first round of the playoffs last season? Didn't the Los Angeles Lakers win the title? Where's the coverage of the Lakers? Isn't ESPN Los Angeles going to go full bore with the Lakers side of things? They should and if they don't, they are doing an extreme disservice to the two-time defending champs.

I'm sure the Lakers don't really mind being in the background. Less pressure on them and more on the Big Three in South Beach.

And the analysis? I have an issue with Jalen Rose here. I rarely differ from Rose's opinions, but I have a major one here.

Rose said something along the lines of having respect for the Big Three "leaving money on the table" in pursuit of a championship. News flash. It's easy to leave money on the table when you're still about to ink a nine-figure contract. Just for a history lesson here, Chris Bosh and LeBron James signed for six years at $110.1 million. Dwayne Wade, the face of the Heat franchise, signed for less at $107.5 million for the same length.

Please. Don't give me that garbage about leaving money on the table and that each guy "took a discount". Each will make over $14 million this season. And I'm to feel pity that they "left money on the table"? Respect them for their unselfishness or lack of greed? Hardly.

Back to the main issue. There will be not be a game played yet a whole crew? Really? And we know what will be regurgitated? "The Decision", the number of titles these guys will boast about bringing to Miami (mostly LBJ), James is playing with a chip on his shoulder and that the Heat are the most reviled NBA team.

You didn't exactly need ESPN for that analysis, did you?

It's More Than LeBron, Wade and Bosh

How much more can we take? All we continually here is about LeBron, DWade and Chris Bosh. There are smatterings of Joe Johnson, Carlos Boozer, Dirk, Amar'e and now, Paul Pierce as well.

There are other worthy free agents out there. Outside of those listed above, a few of these NBA players could find a new home. Here are my five guys among those that are unrestricted free agents that can help your favorite team. (We'll also check out my top 5 restricted free agents, too.)

Lee has never received his due
in New York.

1. David Lee - We all know the Knicks primary interest lies with LBJ. And think what you want about Lee and his abilities. Lee won't be the guy that carries a team, but he can be an instrumental piece in the grand scheme of things. All Lee did last season for a much maligned Knicks club was average 20.3 points a game to add to his 11.7 rebounds per. Don't forget the fact that the former Gator shoots over 50% from the field (career 55.7%). He could very well stay in New York if Donnie Walsh can only land one big free agent as long as that one isn't Chris Bosh.

2. Udonis Haslem - He's been lost in the limelight and he prefers it that way. If you need something done, Haslem is your guy. Need a rebound? He's there. Need someone to give a foul? There he is. He may not be a huge contributor on the offensive end (except for offensive rebounds), but he has intangibles that you can't place your finger on. He has massive heart and that makes him a valuable commodity for any organization.

Allen is still an elite NBA shooter.

3. Ray Allen - Allen is on the record as saying he doesn't want to play anywhere else but Boston. That may be out of his hands if another team offers him the right package. It was rumored that the Celtics were trying to deal the 34-year-old shooting guard before the trading deadline. No one bit, but that's not all bad. There may have been a team or two that was waiting until after the season because they could keep a good player and/or a draft pick that the C's may have been requiring. Allen can still shoot, and shoot well. He can carry you, but not on a nightly basis.

4. John Salmons - Salmons was injected with a new found enthusiasm once he was shipped to Milwaukee. Maybe it was the fact that Salmons got more minutes that led to his improvement. Just compare the numbers between Chicago and Milwaukee and see for yourself.

• Chicago: FG% - 42.0%; FT% - 78.9%; PPG - 12.7
• Milwaukee: FG% - 46.7%, FT% - 86.7%; PPG - 19.9

Salmons chose to opt-out of his final year. The Bucks may sway away from trying to keep Salmons only based on the thought that Michael Redd is due to be back. Need a solid shooting guard? Here's your guy.

5. Raymond Felton - The Bobcats will try to keep the former Tar Heel, but may not be successful even with Michael Jordan aboard. The only thing that concerns me about Felton is that his assists and points have decreased over the last two seasons. He also saw less minutes last year under Larry Brown. If Felton wants paid, it will most likely occur with another team. Felton is still capable of producing the same numbers he had in '07-'08 (14.4 PPG, 7.4 APG) provided it's the right fit.

Gasol Deserves Newest Label

After coming from behind to for their 83-79 win in last night's Game 7, the Los Angeles Lakers secured title #16. Kobe Bryant now has another ring, his fifth, and second consecutive Finals MVP. Now that Kobe has one more ring than former teammate Shaquille O'Neal, life is gratifying. With the off-court feuding between the two during the Lakers three-peat of 2000-2002, Kobe's thirst for a ring without the Diesel was almost blinding. Even in basketball, where only 5 guys are the court at once, you need a supplement.

Shaq and Kobe share three NBA titles...
and the All-Star Game MVP from '09.

Jordan had Pippen. Magic had Kareem and Worthy. The whole Shaq and Kobe show. Dwayne Wade then had Shaq. Tim Duncan had Manu and Tony Parker. You need that "other" guy.

And who's that other guy for the Lakers? Ron Artest? Sure, he had an excellent Game 7, but at times Artest looked beyond lost in the triangle offense. Andrew Bynum? The whole injury issue has severely limited his role the past two postseasons. Derek Fisher? Fisher isn't really a point guard (as I have previously pointed out), but there's hardly a grittier player in the NBA. That leaves Pau Gasol.

My apologies, Pau. I honestly thought KG would have enough in his tank to overrun you. Reality check here (for me and others). No Pau, no back-to-back titles. Plain and simple.

After the Lakers acquired Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies on February 1, 2008 (a trade in which the Grizzlies franchise is still spinning), Gasol aided in the Lakers getting to the 2008 NBA Finals against the hated Boston Celtics. The Lakers loss in that series was painful. Gasol didn't play so well and there was a tag placed on Pau: soft. He showed very little physicality in the series.

Gasol has averaged 18+ points and 10+
rebounds in each of the last two NBA
Finals series.

As much as people want to look at this back-to-back title run as being Kobe's, you must affix Gasol's name to those as well. Not to do so would be a travesty and a misjustice.

In the last two title runs, Bryant has led the Lakers in scoring and assists. That will get you an MVP (or two), but who was the Lakers #2 man in those stats? Both times it was Gasol. Go beyond that. Gasol led the Lakers in rebounding and blocks. He can score. He can board. He can play defense. Gasol is a double-double machine and a valuable cog in the Lakers machine. What I found interesting, sometimes even offensive, is that when Gasol wasn't going for 18 and 12, the "experts" were quick to point to Gasol and say he didn't show up to play. That is another undeserved tag.

Gasol's contributions are still going widely unnoticed. It's all about Kobe, and that's wrong. There may even be a few that leave the "soft" tag on Gasol. That's also wrong, but that one can be removed. But there's another tag that Gasol now bears that can never be removed: two-time champ.

And that's a tag Gasol has quietly, and honestly, earned.

Status of Izzo and LeBron Connected

You can't have a team without a coach and you can't have a team without a superstar. Right now, the Cleveland Cavaliers have neither in the fold.

But there could be movement on the coaching front.

Michigan State's Tom Izzo has been deemed as the front runner with Cavs owner Dan Gilbert being a grad of Michigan State.

What's holding Izzo back? According to Lansing, Michigan's WLNS, Izzo wants an audience with King James. The Plain Dealer's Brian Windhorst is also reporting that a high-level source, LeBron would endorse the Izzo hire. Seems like all that needs to be done is for LBJ and Izzo to have a conversation, right? On the surface, yes, but this is deeper.

Izzo is a Michigan (State) guy. He was born in Michigan and has been with Sparty since the Jud Heathcoate era when Izzo was an assistant.He's been in Lansing since 1983. It would be extremely difficult for Izzo to uproot to the Cleveland area. Might have something to do with Cleveland being OSU country. And the Lansing folks are not making the decision any easier by posting numerous "WE LOVE IZZO" signs. There is even a website that business owners have started to attempt to keep Izzo in Michigan.

Bottom line is this. I wouldn't blame Izzo for rejecting the job especially if Izzo determines in a conversation with LeBron that James would most likely decide to head another direction. The Cavs roster would have nothing to offer any top-notch coaching candidate without LBJ as a member of the Cavs.

Without LeBron, all the money in the world couldn't make the Cavaliers coaching vacancy attractive.

Update: The Cavs will once again commence their search for a head coach. ESPN is reporting that Izzo is staying put at Michigan State. With thisnews, te Cv are mr oless back to square one. Byron Scott has no need to jump aborad as the future of one LeBronJames will detrmine the direction in which Clevelnd is headong. - SE

Izzo in Cleveland?

The answer to my question might be yes. According to ESPN's Mark Stein, the Cleveland Cavaliers are intense in their pursuit of the Michigan State head coach. Izzo has stated that he has no desire to leave Sparty until he delivers another NCAA championship to East Lansing. We'll see...

What qualifies Izzo as a bonafide NBA coach? He has zero NBA experience to speak of. Izzo has led the Spartans to six Final Fours, six Big Ten championships, and the one NCAA title in 2000. His record is an astounding 364-146 for a .714 winning percentage. His college coaching career is impressive. Outside of his college career, there's no record.

The main thrust of Cleveland's interest in Izzo is Cavs owner Dan Gilbert. He is also a grad of Michigan State and a longtime admirer of Izzo's. That actually may be dangerous on a few different fronts.

First, we've seen plenty of times that college coaches cannot transfer to the pro level. While it's hard enough for players to cope with the changes between college and pro hoops, it's even harder for those in the coaching ranks. In a world of "win and win now", college coaches that make the move to the NBA are not granted the time to develop a program as they are used to doing at the college level, although even that appears to be dwindling. Tim Floyd, John Calipari, Rick Pitino, Mike Montgomery and P.J. Carlisimo are just a few that have had decent college coaching careers only to find that the grind of coaching NBA players and the length of an NBA season as more than a challenge.

Second, player contracts and egos play a significant role in coaching in the NBA. College coaches are used to be front and center when on campus. It's not even close to that way in the NBA as it is a players league first and foremost. Coaches rarely, if ever, become the face of a franchise. Cleveland has been known as LeBron's team, not Mike Brown's team. The Lakers are Kobe's team and despite 10 rings, not Phil Jackson's team.

Add this. There's the unmistakable fact that the NBA and its teams are a major worldwide business. Sometimes, knowing that aspect of the NBA may prove to be too daunting for even the most seasoned college coach regardless of what program he was associated with in the college ranks. That "business", for the most part, stays stateside.

Finally, coaches have egos, too. Along the way, their own ego may take a bruising whether it be from the media, the players or even the team's owner. For the most part college coaches answer to athletic directors, boosters, and university presidents, not the players. Sure, there's the periodic outburst or exchange with the media when you're a college coach, but coaches are in it for more than just winning...or so we're supposed to believe. Then, that question could pop into their thoughts if success isn't immediate. What if I can't do this?

Could Izzo be a good NBA coach? Sure he could. He only needs the opportunity.

But sometimes, when opportunity knocks, the door is best left unanswered.

NBA Finals Positional Analysis

Here we are on the morning of the beginning of the NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers. For your enjoyment (or amusement), here's my take on the position matchups.

Point Guard: Rajon Rondo v. Derek Fisher
It's easy to say that Boston holds an overwhelming advantage in Rondo. Don't be that quick, although he does. Keep this in mind. When Boston won the title in '08, Rondo was basically a hall monitor. He pretty much observed the action and didn't initiate any. He has that role now. Fisher isn't a true point guard as he doesn't handle the ball the majority of the time. We all know the Lakers offense runs through Kobe, but do not discount Fisher's role on the team. And he knows his role. Plus, Rondo is a bit banged up.
Advantage: Celtics

Shooting Guard: Ray Allen v. Kobe Bryant
This is a tad closer than people may think. On any given night, Allen still possesses the ability to drop 30 on you. The difference here is that Bryant will be the guy in his face and Kobe takes pride in his defense. As I stated in the point guard section, the Lakers let their offense run through Kobe and he handles the ball more than Fisher. Allen will have to be alert when on defense and with all of Bryant's activity on the offensive end, that could tire Allen. I don't think Allen will drop 30 on the Lakers, but don't be surprised if he squeezes out a couple of games in the high 20's just to let the basketball world know he still has game.
Advantage: Lakers

Shooting Forward: Paul Pierce v. Ron Artest
First and foremost, will Artest display a new hairdo? Haven't seen one yet, but we all know Artest can be open to experimenting with his coif. That out of the way, this is the most interesting matchup, and maybe most crucial, in the series. Artest has sacrificed his offense for the greater good of the team, a trait we haven't observed from Ron in the past. It has provided him a chance to clamp down even more on the defensive end of the floor. Pierce is his next target and you better believe that Pierce will have a tough go of it. In '08, there was no Ron Artest on the Lakers roster. There is in '10 and if Artest plays defense like we've seen in the past, the Lakers could walk away with a title. That's "if".
Advantage: Celtics

Power Forward: Kevin Garnett v. Pau Gasol
I think Lakers coach Phil Jackson made a mistake in calling attention to Garnett and his physical play against Dwight Howard in the Eastern Conference Finals. Not that KG needed to wake up, but this will only serve to motivate him more. But Garnett must be weary of not becoming too intense as he is prone to do. Garnett's physical play will need to be more prevalent on the defensive end as Gasol is no pushover. He's a double-double machine and he has skill to boot. Gasol was viewed as "soft" in the '08 Finals and I expect Garnett to take the ball at him at every conceivable chance he gets. Look for Gasol to try to overturn that "soft" tag this time around, but I'm not sure he can.
Advantage: Celtics

Center: Kendrick Perkins v. Andrew Bynum
Both are hobbled. Bynum by a knee and Perkins with technicals. Both mean so much to the interior defense, but Bynum has more offensive game than Perkins. Can Bynum's drained knee hold up to the physicality he'll get from Perkins? Will Perkins get slapped with that seventh playoff "T"? I'm thinking Perkins get #7 before the end of Game 1 which the C's cannot afford.
Advantage: Lakers

Bench
It's no secret that Los Angeles doesn't get near the support from its bench as Boston does. Only Lamar Odom presents any threat to the Celtics. The issue with Boston's bench is health. Rasheed Wallace's back, Tony Allen's ankle and Glenn Davis' concussion have all had time to heal, and that presents even more problems for Los Angeles. The Lakers desperately need Jordan Farmar and Sheldon Brown to heavily contribute for the Lakers to win, and I don't see that happening. And don't forget that pesky Nate Robinson either.
Advantage: Celtics

Coach: Doc Rivers v. Phil Jackson
I like Doc Rivers. So do his players. They'd jump trough fiery hoops for this guy. I'm not sure if the Lakers would do that for Phil Jackson, but Phil has a ring for every digit on both of his hands. That's worth something, isn't it?
Advantage: Lakers

That makes 4 in favor of Boston and 3 in favor of Los Angeles. No, I'm not going to consider homecourt advantage because Boston plays better on the road. The C's can win at home when they need to...usually. I know I'm in the minority here, but I feel the Celtics will win this series. The 2-3-2 format presents a different animal and another obstacle for the Lakers. Sure, Phil and Kobe have lived it before (Phil has a lot!), but as I said above, the Pierce-Artest matchup is the key. If Artest can't shut down Pierce, then Boston grabs another. If the C's garner a split at the Staples Center, it will only give them more confidence that they can pull off another win in LA when they return for Game 6 and cap off the series with their 18th title. ESPN's Tim Legler agrees with me. Is that good or bad?

Just don't let my brother know I picked his Celtics. I'd never hear the end of it.

The Zen Master is at it Again

Yes, Lakers head coach Phil Jackson is creating his usual high quality verbal barrage. According to the L.A. Times Lakers' blog, Jackson opines (as he always does) about the physical play and proclaimed Boston's Kevin Garnett as a target.

"He was smacking Howard's arm and finally was called for an offensive foul. That's not our kind of team. We don't go out there to smack people around."

Wait, Phil. Don't you have a guy on your roster that does that? Every heard of Ron Artest? Ask Kobe and what happened in last year's playoffs. I'm sure he'll refresh your memory.

And why is Phil going after KG? Sure, he talks a mean game. He can play mean, too. Some would say Jackson's looking to gain an edge over Garnett. I think the target here could actually care less...and that has dwindled since Phil first "called out" Kevin Durant, then Steve Nash. Too much, too soon actually. When Jackson was perceived as whining about the free throw situation with Durant, Phil should have bagged his verbal sparring Jedi mind trick. It had an effect on the kid, but on the vets like Nash and KG.

So, what's Phil and Co. do now? Offer $50 for each charge taken by his players. We're all familiar with this. Some may refer to it as "flopping". You know, the tactic that Duke's interior defenders are always berated for using. A big man hits the floor in hopes of his opponent being called for a charge. Laker fans, if you absolutely abhor the use of this by Duke, or even just hate Duke, you must be seething by this revelation. But unlike Coach K, Phil can offer a financial reward., a crisp $50 bill. Don't think it's not a big deal either. Most of us think that $50 is nothing for these guys, but in this "exercise", it is. You're taking someone else's money.

And Lakers fans, you should be disappointed because your coach has just stooped. He's taking the game out of the hands of the players and putting it into the hands of the officials. We all now that cannot be an outcome we all want to see. Even if the Lakers win the series, do you honestly think proper credit will be acknowledged knwing what we know? No.

The game today is physical and the knock on the Laker team that lost in the '08 Finals was that they were soft. And they were. Let the guys play and let their play determine the outcome, not your mouth and/or incentives.

All this from a Duke fan.

Lakers Defense Has Bryant Unhappy

It's a series now. Just when everyone had the Phoenix Suns left for dead, the Suns bounce back in a resounding fashion to take two games at home.

"They have a great bench." -
Bryant on Phoenix reserves.

And Lakers guard Kobe Bryant was none to happy with his team's showing despite another excellent game in which he contributed 38 points, 10 assists and 7 boards. But it's all about the team with Bryant.

After the game, Bryant was thoroughly questioned about his team's performance both offensively and defensively. Bryant was obviously agitated at the outcome and some of those at the presser wanted to aim the finger toward the Lakers offense. To Kobe, there was no doubt. It was LA's defense failed them in Game 4.

"Our attention needs to be on the defensive end -- period," Bryant said. "That's second-chance opportunities. Their bench came in and gave them a big boost in getting balls back and getting them extra possessions. We've got to cut that stuff out."

Bryant was also asked if he needed help offensively and Bryant stayed the course as far as the Lakers lack of defense, and he's right. You have to have a defensive stop every once in a while. The saying goes that defense wins you championships and Kobe does own a ring...or four, so he knows what it takes. He even cited that his team gave too much attention to the Suns' zone and not enough to their own defense.

Frye finally broke out of a slump
in Game 4 to add 14 points and
6 rebounds.

Add that the Lakers had no such answer for the Phoenix bench that amassed an insane 54 points, and you have a Suns victory. Don't forget that Phoenix also won the rebounding battle, 51-36. The Lakers bench only managed 20 points and 15 of those were from Lamar Odom. Yes, the Lakers bench isn't the deepest and the Suns go 10 deep in their rotation. All 10 Phoenix players were in double figures in minutes played and Suns head coach Alvin Gentry has a tremendous feel for his club. Only three of the Suns starters played 30 minutes or more.

Lakers head coach Phil Jackson looked in a different direction.

"We thought we could come in here and get a game, and unfortunately you know we weren't up to the task. But we outscored them from the field I think both games, shot better than they did, did a lot of things very good and it still wasn't enough to win the game. They beat us at the foul line both nights, and that's the difference in the margin of the game."

Kobe says defense and Phil says free throws. Who's right?

Actually, both. The defensive stops were not many, and the Lakers were once again frozen by the Suns zone defense negating any movement to the hoop. Phoenix is showing a willingness to drive the lane and the Lakers are showing some tentativeness in such. All Phil has to do is invent a Laker way of penetrating the zone. He is the best coach in NBA history, right?

Piece of advice. Don't rely on the 3 so much. The Lakers took 33 three-point shots in Games 1 and 2 combined. Result: two wins. In Games 3 and 4, a total of 60 three-pointers. Result: two losses. See a pattern here?

If you're a Suns fan, think about this. Phil Jackson is 46-0 lifetime when his team holds a 2-0 lead.

After Games 1 and 2, Lakers fans were chanting "We want Boston!"

I think they may want to take care of the Phoenix Suns in this series first.

Just Shut Up and Play!

A couple of funny observations from highly paid athletes. Instead of taking their "defeats" and dealing with them, they choose to air our issues through the media. But it should be this simple. Shut up and play what you're paid to do.

Case #1 involves Florida Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez and his little feud with his manager Fredi Gonzalez.

Tuesday was an un familiar seat for Ramirez.
He should be in today's starting lineup.

In a Monday evening affair against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Ramirez was going after a blooped ball into shallow left field. Ramirez couldn't get to the ball in time. When he tried to filed the ball, he accidentally kicked the ball into the left field corner. No big deal and I'm sure we've all seen the replay by now. It was Ramirez didn't do after that.

Instead of busting his rear end into the left field corner to retrieve the ball, Ramirez appeared to be lightly jogging to get it, an effort not appreciated by his manager. Gonzalez pulled Ramirez from the game for his apparent lack of hustle. Ramirez was none to kind to his skipper.

"He can do whatever . . . He doesn't understand that. He never played in the big leagues."

And Ramirez proceeded to throw his Marlins teammates under the bus as well.

"We got a lot of people dogging it after ground balls. They don't apologize."

The apology part is in reference to Gonzalez wishing Ramirez would apologize to his teammates for his poor effort. While Gonzalez could actually care less if he personally receives one, he does feel strongly that the Marlins as a team deserve such. As of yet, Ramirez has neither delivered that apology and appears in no way to waver from his stance.

What cannot be lost is the support a couple of Marlins players have for Gonzalez and the move to not only pull Ramirez on Monday, but to bench him on Tuesday. Dan Uggla seem to place himself in his manager's corner.

"I think Skip needed to do what he needed to do, which was take Hanley out of the game at that time. Does that mean we love Hanley any less? No, we have all made mistakes. We've all done things like, 'Oh, maybe I shouldn't have done that.' But you move on, you move forward you get past it."

What Uggla very well could be saying is this. You showed a lack of effort. Sit down and take your medicine. Get over yourself and play the damn game. Most importantly, shut up! Well, that's how I take it anyway.

And by the way, Ramirez is the highest paid player on the Marlins roster due to 6-year, $70 million contract and he is the face of the Florida Marlins. Act like it.

The same could very well be said of Phoenix Suns big man Amar'e Stoudemire and is Case #2.

Odom played a brilliant Game 1 and deserved
all praises for it.

During an interview yesterday, Stoudemire was questioned about Lakers "asset" Lamar Odom and Odom's 19 point, 19 board effort in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals. Stoudemire didn't exactly give Odom any props. Not so much as any ackonwledgment that Odom had a superb game. In fact, Stoudemire belittled Odom's effort.

"I'm not giving him no hype right now; he had a lucky game in Game 1."

I'd rather be lucky with a line like that Amar'e. What were your stats for the game? You managed 23 points which was a +4 in the scoring column (compared to Odom). Good, good. What's this? 3 rebounds? 3 freakin' boards was all? That's a -16! Plus, Odom only had one less rebound that the whole Suns starting five (20 to 19).

Another thing here. Stoudemire also talked of not having total focus. How can you not be focused playing the the conference finals? For the record, Stoudemire gets paid $16.4 million for not being focused compared to Odom getting $7.5 million for being lucky. Maybe Odom shouldn't be as focused. He could make more money.

I was always taught that rebounding isn't luck. It's effort and nothing else. You have to want the ball.

Odom could have taken Stoudemire's ball and run. But he didn't.

"So be it. Hopefully I can have another lucky one."

Way to take the high road, Lamar. Although I guess a great line or two would have been awesome for E! to put on your wife's show, but I'll take this classy move any day.

Amar'e - shut up and play. And don't forget, it's the Western Conference Finals. You need to be focused.

LeBron, LeBron. LeBron

Cavs fans are also scratching their heads.

No, the season didn't go as planned. The Cleveland Cavaliers were stunned by the Boston Celtics in six games leading all of the world to inquire about the future of one LeBron James.

It had to happen eventually, but many are forgetting one thing. LeBron holds the option. He can stay in Cleveland for one more season by exercising his option without signing a new contract. He would collect $17.1 million in the 2010-2011 season. If he declines that option, then he's a free agent. Granted, it's almost a foregone conclusion that LBJ will opt-out.

Cavs owner Dan Gilbert will evaluate the team in the next 7-10 according to his 2:30 press conference he held this afternoon. He has to be skittish at the prospects of losing LeBron. It's been said that the Cavs value as a franchise would tumble $100 million if James were to bolt Cleveland.

If he gets that max deal and stays in Cleveland, what would that mean for Cleveland? Plenty. It's his home. It's his team. It's his town for cryin' out loud. He shares the spotlight with no one.

As far as the Cavs 2010-2011 season, there are a few things that we need to keep fresh in out minds. One is the Shaq's contract is done. He is a free agent, but he's also said he would return as a Cav. The issue might be salary. O'Neal banked $20 million this past season and it's highly unlikely Cleveland will offer him anywhere near that amount. Second, Zydrunas Ilgauskas is also a free agent. There's no man in the middle at all. Third, unless some creativity can happen, there's not a whole lot of cap space available even without Shaq's cash. Finally, is this really a roster that can propel the Cavs to a title? For the second year in a row, a perceived inferior opponent dropped the Cavs in six games.

It got me thinking (and that can be dangerous), amid all the other places LBJ can land, which is best? I'm listing the teams alphabetically.

Noah is a double-double machine and
future star in the NBA.

1. Chicago Bulls
Chicago has become the "hot pick" over the last couple of days.

Pros: Nice young roster makeup with Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah makes the Bulls appetizing. LBJ may have no fear playing in the shadows of his idol, Michael Jordan. The Bulls have plenty of room under the cap to add another max deal, too.

Cons: No head coach, although it's interesting to point out that John Calipari was at the now infamous Game 5 in Cleveland along side some of LeBron's "team". Calipari has been linked to the Bulls job. While The Bulls do have a lot of money to spare, they generally don't like to go over the cap due to the luxury tax issue. If the Bulls get two max deal, what's left? There's also no big man as Brad Miller is a free agent.

Kaman averaged 18.5 ppg and 9.3 rpg last
season. Better than what Cavs centers had.

2. Los Angeles Clippers
The other team in L.A.

Pros: With the signing of James, the starting lineup would be set: Baron Davis, Eric Gordon, LBJ, Blake Griffin and Chris Kaman. Oh, and surprise, another lottery pick.

Cons: Where's the bench? Mardy Collins is a restrictred free agent so that only leaves DeAndre Jordan outside of the starters. There's also a vacancy sign hanging outside for a head coach.. Then, there's also the stigma of the Clippers. That may be too bitter a pill for James to swallow. I doubt a max deal would do that. Plus, would LeBron be willing the share the spotlight in L.A.? Kobe pretty much has the town on a string and LBJ is Cleveland. On the issue of Blake Griffin, how healthy is he? That is perhaps an even bigger hurdle.

Wade has a ring and is looking for another.

3. Miami Heat
Maybe the longest shot of these five teams

Pros: Dwayne Wade. Wade has a ring and knows what it takes to win one. That could give LeBron a valuable lesson. There's money to be spent in South Beach. If Pat Riley returns to the bench as coach, LeBron may give the Heat some thought.

Cons: Not much of a roster with all the free agents that could be leaving. You have Michael Beasley and Daequan Cook under contract for next season. That's all. It also said that Wade is wanting former Atlanta Hawks guard and good friend Joe Johnson as a roster mate. Knowing that may limit the Heat's chances.

D'Antoni may be the biggest draw to
the Big Apple.

4. New York Knicks
Once thought as the "front runners" in the LBJ sweepstakes.

Pros: All that money available and can definitely add another max contract, maybe more. The Knicks could add another $2 million to their coffers if they decline options on J.R. Giddens and Bill Walker. The Knicks actually have a coach, too. The Knicks also will benefit from a lottery pick.

Cons: The roster is gutted to free up all that money. No point guard unless you consider Sergio Rodriguez and he's a restricted free agent. I still can't believe that New York didn't give David Lee a better deal prior to last season. He's their best overall player and once again a free agent. If the Knicks can keep Lee, that may work in their favor. Imagine the extra money (about $11.3 million) the Knicks could have if Eddy Curry were to refuse his player option, but I doubt Curry will decline stealing more money from the Knicks. That could be cash that Lee deserves.

Coach K on the Nets' sideline could incline
James to head to Jersey...then Brooklyn.

5. New Jersey Nets
A new owner and a new beginning?

Pros: As a said above, a new owner, Mikhail Prokhorov. He's got the bucks, so the luxury tax most likely won't be an issue. Sure, the Nets had a lousy season last year, but they got a lot of loot to offer, too. Two max deals and maybe even more. Devin Harris is an All-Star and Brook Lopez has started to establish himself as a future star in the league. I thought he should have been on the All-Star team last year despite the woes the Nets experienced. Terrence Williams and Courtney Lee can provide bench strength and they are under contract for next season. The new facility may be enticing, too.

Cons: Again, the Nets are coachless. Well, sort of, but the thought of Duke's Mike Krzyzewski coming to Jersey could be a huge boost for the Nets chances of getting LeBron. If Coach K were to take the post (one he says that he is not interested in taking), getting James might be that much easier due to their affiliation through USA Basketball and the Olympics. He did guide James and Company to a gold.

Any way you look at it, LeBron will be the talk of the NBA world until June 30.

NBA Fans Deserved Better

After watching the Atlanta Hawks be decimated in the Eastern Conference Semis and the performance of the Cleveland Cavaliers last night, don't you think the NBA fans got the shaft?

Woodson deserved better from his team.

In the case of the Hawks, they fought back from a 3-2 deficit to win the seven game series against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Atlanta fans showed up for Games 3 and 4 and, once again, their team didn't. Game 4 was the best showing of the series for Atlanta, but the Orlando Magic basically had no opponent in steamrolling the Hawks to a 4-0 series victory.

Just in case you're curious, here's some telling stats about the Hawks during the regular season against their stats in the Orlando series. All the players listed here averaged double figures in scoring.

• Joe Johnson: reg. season - 21.3 pts, 4.9 asst, .458 FG%; vs. Magic - 12.8 pts, 3.8 asst, .298 FG%
• Jamal Crawford: reg. season - 18.0 pts, .449 FG%; vs. Magic - 17.0 pts, .333 FG%
• Josh Smith: reg. season - 15.7 pts, .505 FG%; vs. Magic - 15.8 pts, .441 FG%
• Al Horford: reg. season - 14.2 pts, 9.9 reb, .551 FG%; vs. Magic - 13.0 pts, 7.5 reb, .454 FG%
• Marvin Williams: reg. season - 10.1 pts, .455 FG%; 6.3 pts, .300 FG%

For the entire series, the Hawks defense was also non-existent allowing 107.3 points a game while they only averaged 82.0 a contest for a difference of 25.3 points a game, an NBA record. For the season, Atlanta averaged 101.7 points per while allowing only 97.0 a game. That makes Orlando's performance look even better. They shut down the Hawks scoring and exposed weaknesses in not only the defense, but in the team's chemistry. Not a confident performance from the conference's #3 seed.

So, what do you do with these Hawks? I have a feeling the team will be disassembled (the kindest way I can put it). Joe Johnson will be a free agent and after his remarks about the Atlanta fans, he might not be welcomed back. It's been speculated that Johnson could demand a max deal. It's also speculated that the series against Orlando could diminish those chances.

Head coach Mike Woodson doesn't have a deal either, and that's unfortunate because Woodson can coach despite the showing from his team. He took a job nobody wanted and turned the Hawks into a quality team. Woodson claims the Hawks are almost there, but after six seasons, this may be Woodson's ticket out of Atlanta. Maybe time has run its course for Woodson, but he will latch on elsewhere. Six seasons. Not many front offices and owners would have that much patience.

James' stunned look says it all.

And what was the deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers last night? Or shall I say what was with LeBron? Call it disinterested or disengaged, LBJ did not even appear to be into this game at all. He wasn't the only Cavs player in that mode either. Outside of Shaq, only James (15) and Anthony Parker (14) cracked double digits in scoring. For the game, Cleveland shot 41.2% from the floor while Boston hit on 55.0% of their shots. Isn't one of Cleveland's strengths defense? Couldn't see that last night either.

James has already taken huge hits for his performance last night. Cleveland never resembled the #1 overall seed and if this is LeBron's team, he must step forward instead of blowing it off like he did in the post game presser. Just look at the pic. That tells you everything you need to know.

And how does Cavs head coach Mike Brown play into all of this? A ton, but I will defend Brown on this account. After a woeful Game 2 performance, Brown's post game comments couldn't have been more correct. Brown displayed the emotion that his team needs. He's not getting that emotion and maybe that's because his team's not buying into it anymore. After that Game 2 loss, a lot of Cleveland's player were a little too cavalier (pun totally intended) about their status in this series. Brown should not have to ignite a fire under their butts every time the outlook is bleak. Wasn't there a phrase "win a ring for the king"? Where's that attitude now?

And don't take anything away from the Celtics. They played their best game of the series by far. Paul Pierce got going with a 21 point, 11 board effort. Pierce added 7 assists along with Rajon Rondo's 7. Ray Allen was 6-9 from 3-point range and led all scorers with 25 points. Glen Davis added 15 and the Celtics had a total of 30 bench points for the game.

This series could easily end tomorrow night. If it does, all the talk will be about LeBron's next residence.

Bulls (Again) Seeking Coach. Calipari?

Del Negro was a .500 coach in two seasons
for the Chicago Bulls.

The Chicago Bulls recently announced the firing of head coach Vinny Del Negro after two seasons in the Windy City.

There's nothing wrong with desiring the return of the Bulls to the former glory the city experienced during the Phil Jackson-Michael Jordan era. It's just not going to happen. There's not a single roster move, series of roster moves or any one coach that can revive the days of MJ, Scottie Pippen, Steve Kerr and John Paxson even though Paxson is viewed as the man in charge now. (I include Kerr and Paxson only because they hit two of the biggest shots in Bulls history.)

Despite the apparent rift between Paxson and Del Negro (for which Paxson has apologized), this move leaves me scratching my head. Del Negro's record wasn't overly successful (82-82 over two seasons), but he still guided Chicago to the playoffs in both seasons. Same can be said for Scott Skiles, now with the Milwaukee Bucks. Skiles coached for parts of two seasons and three full seasons. His record was 165-172 (.490) and three straight playoff spots. Both were escorted out of Chicago because they were deemed as failing to live up to over hyped expectations. But whoever said coaching is a fair occupation. No one.

Whoever Paxson decides as the next coach will have a nice core of young talent. Derrick Rose is a superstar in the making. Joakim Noah has evolved into a double-double machine and is also a budding star. Luol Deng, Taj Gibson, Kirk Hinrich, James Johnson, Hakim Warrick. Oh, the talent is there. Talent that can be developed. Can't think of a coach that wouldn't want to have the chance to work with all that young talent. And there's the fact that Chicago has the cap room to add a max contract.

More money for Coach Cal?

Yesterday, Yahoo! Sports reveled that Kentucky men's basketball coach John Calipari was interested in the Bulls post. Calipari, in turn, told Andy Katz of ESPN that he had no interest in the job. Calipari also stated he had not been contacted nor was he even pursuing it. Quickly, the UK masses pulled together and are ow set to offer Calipari a raise and contract extension. A lot of good that would do. Calipari is already the highest paid college coach. What will throwing more money and offering an extension really do? Remember what Calipari said before leaving Memphis before bolting to Lexington?

Calipari's NBA record is less than stellar. In his 2+ years with the New Jersey Nets, Coach Cal compiled a 72-122 record (.390 winning percentage). Yes, he's been through the rigors of a couple of NBA seasons, but the only link to the Bulls is Derrick Rose.

And even that won't be good enough for Chicago. The record speaks for itself. No question Calipari has enough charisma to get the players attention, but even at times during this past season at Kentucky, star freshman John Wall appeared to completely ignore him. That doesn't speak too highly of Coach Cal either.

For the next head coach of the Chicago Bulls, we must keep this mind. He won't be given a long time to improve the team. Ask Del Negro. Results will be expected, especially when it comes to the playoffs.

You get two years to make it past the second round. If not, look for another opening.

Sports Dabbling in Politics

It seems like overnight the debate on the new Arizona immigration law has grown substantially...in the sports arena.

You've obviously heard San Diego Padres first baseman Adrian Gonzalez state he will protest the 2011 All-Star Game if he's selected to go if the law is not repealed. Gonzalez has even suggested pulling Spring Training out of the state. You've also heard about the open letter Rev. Jesse Jackson submitted to MLB commish Bud Selig to pull the 2011 All-Star Game out of Arizona.

Unless there's some movement in Arizona's
controversial immigration law, Selig may be
pressured to move the 2011 All-Star Game
out of Arizona.

Bud Selig is slowly feeling the fire and the questions and pressure will continue to mount especially now in the wake of Sarver and Nash expressing concern. The MLBPA had already issued a statement in severe opposition. The union has to protect their membership seeing that 28% of the majors and 48% of those in the minors are currently or are potential future members. For the MLBPA to take this stand is not shocking one bit.

You can now add Phoenix Suns managing partner Robert Sarver to those opposed. According to the blog BrightSideoftheSun.com, Sarver expressed his opposition and why his Suns will bear jerseys that say "Los Suns" during tomorrow night's playoff game.

"The frustration with the federal government’s failure to deal with the issue of illegal immigration resulted in passage of a flawed state law. However intended, the result of passing this law is that our basic principles of equal rights and protection under the law are being called into question, and Arizona’s already struggling economy will suffer even further setbacks at a time when the state can ill-afford them."

Did I fail to mention that this also coincides with Cinco de Mayo?

The criticism doesn't stop with Sarver. Steve Nash has also supported the opposition.

"I think the law is very misguided. I think it is unfortunately to the detriment to our society and our civil liberties and I think it is very important for us to stand up for things we believe in," Nash said of the bill. "I think the law obviously can target opportunities for racial profiling. Things we don't want to see and don't need to see in 2010."

This is not a political blog, but I do feel this needs to be brought to our attention. I'm not going to claim I know all about this controversial law. I don't. I do know that this law could have ramifications across the sports world.

With Sarver and Nash, it sheds a little light on how just a couple of those associated with the NBA feel about this law. It won't be long now before other athletes take a stand if they're in Arizona or not.

I knew it wouldn't take long for another sport besides baseball to make a statement on either side of the debate. This may seem like Selig could be forced into a decision he really doesn't have to immediately make.

Remember when the state of Arizona refused to recognize Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a national holiday? The NFL threatened to pull the Super Bowl from the state. After the issue had a "cooling down" period, the state's stance was reversed and the Super Bowl was permitted to be played in Glendale.

That might be all Selig needs to do. Issue a statement declaring the MLB could pull the All-Star Game if the law is not properly restructured, if not totally repealed. If not, then hastily name a new National League city to host the 2011 event.

I say hastily because sometimes the commish can move a tad slow.

Howard Reveals Frustration

Update: To the surprise of absolutely no one, Howard has been fined $35,000 according to InsideHoops.com.

"I gotta say this is the most frustrating
stretch of my career." - Dwight Howard
on DwightHoward.com.

Sometimes in this world of "news now", we can easily be led astray by the fact that there are facts absent from a story. You know, checking resources, verifying facts, things of that nature. Some outlets want to scoop the rest of the internet by breaking a story that we find those edges being blurred.

Another phenomenon of the digital age is that we are granted a front row seat into the thoughts of celebrities and others of certain notoriety due to one thing, a blog. Yes, just like what you're reading now, the whole world attains an insight into one's soul.

Orlando Magic big man Dwight Howard has delivered to us such a gift.

Yesterday, in a post on his blog through DwightHoward.com, Howard revealed his opinion on the recently completed series against the Charlotte Bobcats. Just a couple of lines will do for now.

Ya’ll know that that series against Charlotte drove me crazy. I mean it was almost comical at times how I was getting fouls called on me. There was nothing I could do our there and I felt like I couldn’t even move without getting that whistle blown on me.

I’m not looking to say anything to get myself in trouble with the league, but I just don’t see other star players getting called for fouls the way I get them. No star player in the league is outta games the way I am. I even talked to Pat Ewing about his career and he said he never had foul trouble like what I’m going through.

The first thing is obvious. Howard will be in trouble with the league for his questioning of the officials, but Howard provides his own take on what was once known as the "Jordan Rules".

As a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, you would suspect that Howard might get the benefit on some calls such as Jordan, LeBron, Kobe and Dwayne Wade appear to get in their favor. That's the point Howard is trying to drive home here and I applaud him for taking the risk of a fine in order to express his views. But this leads me down a road that I do find just a bit disturbing and it applies to all sports.

It's more prevalent in the NBA and that's one reason I don't watch the NBA as much as the NFL or even the MLB and that is because those perceived "benefits" seem to take on a life of their own. LeBron drives down the lane and runs into an opponent that is clearly in position and set, but a blocking foul is called on the defender. The foul occurs about 10 feet from the hoop. Flip that and LBJ gets the charge. What makes this type of favor more visible is just that...it's visible by almost all in attendance, all on press row, all watching on TV and all members of both teams.

I'm by no means dismissing that during his days of dominant pitching, Greg Maddux didn't get a call or two on a borderline pitch. I'm also not saying that on some occasion during this past NFL season that Darelle Revis out on Revis Island didn't get away with a push or an armbar on a receiver on any given play. What I am saying is that I am completely aware that players earn a reputation through their performance and their attitude. This leads to some players getting calls and other not. No, it isn't right and rules are rules. Since those rules are in a rulebook, they should inherently be judged the same for all participants, not certain individuals.

I actually understand Howard's frustration since he views himself as a star player, and he is, and he's not seeing any of these calls added to his side of the ledger.

Good luck in your next series and keep your head up, Dwight. Enough of this officiating stuff. Play hoops and do not assume that you will get calls.

We all know about that word assume.

Iverson out in Philly?

We once again are seeing the possibility of Allen Iverson spending his last days with an NBA team.

First, it was the Memphis Grizzlies. Now, the Philadelphia 76ers.

Sixers head coach Eddie Jordan kept his team in the loop by alerting his guys about the chance A.I. may not be back. Applause for Jordan. Keeping the team in the dark would create more drama and raise more questions. Sounds like he learned something from PGA Commissioner Tim Finchem.

It's the circumstances that surround Iverson's "departure". It has been reported that Iverson sought a leave due to a family health concern. Sixers president Ed Stefanski felt this move was in the best interest of both the Sixers and Iverson.

Iverson will miss the next three games (at least) while attending to the matter.

If this is the end of Iverson in Philly, the next question must be asked: Where will Iverson go?

Not an easy question to answer. Iverson was choked up during his presser upon his return to Philly. I thought this was a win-win situation for the Sixers. They get a legend returning and Iverson gets to appropriately thank the Sixers faithful with another run in the City of Brotherly Love. I was glad to see him once again don the Sixers jersey.

Where, though? Only Iverson can really answer (no pun intended) that. I feel if Iverson wants a return to any NBA team, he must accept a diminished role. Like the role Grizzlies head coach Lionel Hollins wanted him to take. Okay, that situation wasn't handled properly, but in the end, that might be exactly what Iverson must accept.

Any team that desires a backup scorer would love to add A.I. on their roster. Iverson would obviously want a team that can get to the finals so he has another chance at a ring. Although 16 teams make the NBA's postseason on a yearly basis, the pickings are actually a little slim. We observed before the beginning of this season that the list of teams wanting Iverson was very, very short. But if he decides to swallow his pride and take that diminished role approach, that list would expand.

If this is truly A.I's swansong in the NBA, it's been a good ride. I've never witnessed a player, despite his size, so willing to take on the "big boys". No one could question his desire or heart.

And Iverson displayed all of that.

And I selfishly don't want it to end.

Slam Dunk Contest not what it used to be

So Nate Robinson is the first three-time winner of the Slam Dunk Contest. Seeing as he's listed at 5'9", it's not only amazing that he can leap so high, but that he can perform some of the dunks he does. Nate can't palm the ball.

As I watched last night, I caught myself flashing back to the days of Dominique and Air Jordan when they battled one another for the title. I wondered if this exhibition could ever return to those days. Simply, no. But the reasons are not as simple.

Even with Robinson's historic feat (and I'm not downplaying his accomplishment), the Slam Dunk contest isn't close to what it used to be. I'm not saying that because there's no LeBron and no Kobe. I'm saying that because of a few factors.

I'm saying that because the "wow" factor isn't there anymore. One of reasons to watch it was to see if anything innovative was being done with the dunks. You really can only go so far with dunking a basketball, right? But these boundries are being pushed all the time.

I'll trace back a bit about the "names" not being there. That used to be a draw. Those "names" no longer perform at the contest and the NBA and its fans are at a loss because of it. Who would you rather see in a Slam Dunk final: Nate Robinson v. DeMar DeRozan or LeBron v. Kobe? Silly question, I know.

The rules are different, too. Remember when players performed a dunk, got their score and watched the others to see if they advanced to the next round? There were no time limits involved or multiple attempts. Take one shot and see how you do.

And when it got to the final two, the scores determined the winner not voting done online or via text messaging? Me, too. It's almost evolved into a popularity contest. I'm guessing since the fans vote on who should play in the game, the NBA figures the fans should determine the winner.

There were multiple rounds. If you had 8 competitors, they cut down to 4, then 2. You would see if a player was really mentally ready for this. Not now. Two rounds. That's not so bad. The players don't get as tired that way and that's almost (I said, almost) a plus.

The Slam Dunk Contest can never be what it once was, the jewel of All-Star weekend.

Vince Carter, where have you gone?

NBA All-Star Snubs

It's time for America's favorite game show...Guess who was snubbed!!

With the announcement of the NBA's All-Star reserves last evening, there's always (and I do mean always) a wave of those that were not chosen by the coaches within their conference to be a reserve. I have found one common thread, but we'll wait a bit before that's unveiled.

First to the Eastern Conference. I'll give you the stats of three players who were "contending" for one spot.

Player A: 19.4 points a game/11.6 rebounds
Player B: 19.0 points a game/9.4 rebounds
Player C: 13.6 points a game/9.8 rebounds

Who are you selecting? To me, it's so obvious that Player A deserves the nod, right? Well, if it isn't Player A, it has to be Player B. Player B scores more then Player C and barely has less boards. So, if it's not Player A, then it's Player B, right?

(Buzzer sounds).

I'm sorry. It's Player C that the coaches selected. You've probably been able to figure out that since I do not have any assist numbers, that these players are most likely centers, and they are.

Player A is David Lee of the New York Knicks. Player B is Brook Lopez of the New Jersey Nets. Player C is Al Horford (right) of the Atlanta Hawks. Based on straight stats, Lee should be going, but Horford got the nod...for one reason. He's a Hawk and Atlanta has won 29 games in comparison to the Knicks 18 wins and we all know about the plight of the Nets and their 4 whole victories.

We're going to stay in the East with the second snub.

Player A: 18.7 points a game/4.8 boards/3.6 assists
Player B: 21.9 points a game/8.7 boards/1.2 assists
Player C: 18.6 points a game/11.0 boards/1.9 assists

This one's a bit tricky as two of the three made the reserve squad. I'm adding a bit of a wrinkle, too. Who, of these three should not go?

I'm thinking Player A shouldn't be going. I know he's got more assists, but he gets clobbered on the boards. Player C dominates on the boards. Player C does have the lowest acoring average, but it's a mere 0.1 points compared to Player A.

(Buzzer)

Players A and C made the team and Player B (the highest scorer) is left out in the cold. Player A is Boston's Paul Pierce. Player B is Washington's Antawn Jamison (left). Player C is Charlotte's Gerald Wallace. Yes, Jamison is clearly being snubbed because he's a Wizard, a team that only has 14 wins. The Bobcats have 22 and the C's have 29.

In the West, here's the picture at a certain position.

Player A: 23.1 points/5.0 assists/4.6 rebounds
Player B: 26.0 points/5.6 assists/4.3 rebounds
Player C: 24.8 points/4.9 assists/4.8 rebounds

One made it, two didn't. Who made it? Player B should clearly get this one, shouldn't he? He has the highest scoring average and higher assist numbers. You couldn't go wrong with Player C either. He scores more than Player A and has a couple more boards overall. He only lacks a tad in assists.

(Buzzer)

Wrong. That honor as a reserve would go to Player A despite having the lowest scoring average. Player A is Portland's Brandon Roy (right). Player B is Golden State's Monta Ellis. Player C is Sacramento's Tyreke Evans.

Again, a winning team's player get rewarded. Portland has 27 wins while Golden State has amassed only 13 and Sacramento has 16.

There's no exact way anyone can surmise how a player is placed on an All-Star team. To me, it's about stats. Reward those having good seasons. I know that others may feel a different way and would also add winning into their equation.

But the NBA already has something for winning. It's called the Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy.