RANK (LAST WK)REC.
1 (1) Lakers 11-1
With a 4-0 week and 11-1 overall record, the Lakers ended week 4 maintaining the 1st spot for a third straight week.
2 (2) Celtics 13-2
The Boston Celtics are slowly making me a believer then again they are the world champions. Can they continue at this pace with the entire league gunning for them remains to be seen?
3 (3) Cavaliers 10-3
If the season ended today, LeBron James, the nba leading scorer would win the MVP award hands down. However, the Cavaliers have 3 other players averaging almost 44ppg, with newcomer Mo Williams accounting for 17.2ppg of those points. If Cavs guard Bobbie Gibson can bounce out of an early season shooting slump, the Cavs could be a very dangerous team.
4 (7) Nuggets 9-5
When you think of a 4th rank team you assume they are a serious championship contender but the Nuggets are really not, at least not this early in the season. They are actually ranked 4th by default. I expect them to slide once key players from other teams currently ranked lower return from injuries to their respective lineups.
5 (8) Rockets 9-5
The injury plagued Houston Rockets continues to find ways to gel, and a 3-1 week 4 earned them the 5th spot. Two things must happen for the Rockets to be among the elite teams in the nba. First, Yao must stay healthy and the Rockets must establish him as their first option, period. Second, Tracy needs to accept the fact that he is not the first option and figure out how to co-exist with defensive specialist and newly acquired Ron Artest.
6 (5) Magic 9-4
The Orlando Magic started the week 3-0 but ran into the defensive minded Houston Rockets who ended their 5 games winning streak. Yao dominated the Magic Dwight Howard as he usually does. In spite of that the Magic were still good enough to secure the 6th spot.
7 (4) Suns 9-4
The Phoenix Suns went 2-2 in week 4 but their two losses were to Utah in Salt Lake and the nba’s best team Los Angeles Lakers earning them the 7th spot. Shaq is averaging 15.4ppg and 8.6rpg a few points better than I anticipated and together with Amare have given the Suns a very formidable interior force.
8 12) Jazz 8-5
The Utah Jazz continues to amaze me. Carlos Boozer has been out the last two games. U.S. Olympian Deron Williams out for most of the season. Center Okur out for several games. Yet the Jazz went 3-1 in week 4 and a 9-5 overall record. Very impressive and a lot of Kudos goes to Jerry Sloan, the Jazz tough minded head coach.
9 (6) Pistons 8-5
After ending the Cavaliers 8 game winning streak in an impressive second half comeback, I thought the Pistons meant business. An 18 point loss to the Celtics in Boston didn’t bother me, but to be blown out at home by the lottery bound Minnesotta Timberwolves by 26 points… Wow! I guess the Pistons really could use Antonio McDyess who has committed to returning on December 3, 2008.
10 (10) TrailBlazers 8-6
In 8 games center Greg Oden is averaging 9ppg, 6.9rpg with 1.88 blocks per. Unfortunately he’s also averaging 3.8 fouls in only 19.6 minutes. His timing is not there yet. If he plays 30 minutes per game with less than 4.5 fouls, his averages will be more like 12ppg, 11-12rpg with 3.0bpg (blocks per game). With those numbers the Blazers will maintain their top 10 spot throughout the season.
11 (18) Spurs 6-6
Even without Manu and Tony Parker, the Spurs keep finding ways to win. They may be inking out wins, but a 3-1 week and 6-6 overall record gives them the 11th ranking for week 4. If the regular season ended today the Spurs will be the 8th and final playoff team in West.
12 (9) Hawks 8-5
The Hawks are still without defensive stopper Josh Smith who could return in a week or two. A 2-2 week wasn’t bad considering one of those losses were against the Cavaliers in Cleveland.
13 (11) Hornets 7-5
The Hornets have a top 3 fantasy player in Chris Paul, 21.1ppg, 11.8apg with 3.1apg. He leads the nba in the last two categories for a second straight year. However back to back wins over Oklahoma City and a 7-5 overall record was only good enough for the 13th spot in week 4. The Hornets were supposed to be a top 5 team but have been very disappointing this season. I guess it’s much harder being the hunted than the hunter as the Hornets are finding out this season.
14 (15) 76ers 7-6
It is obvious that the Sixers are not a top 4 team in the East. After acquiring Elton Brand the expectations for them were high coming into the season. With a 2-2 week and 7-6 overall record, the 76ers settled into the 14th spot in week 4.
15 (23) Mavericks 6-7
I am not ready to say the Mavericks are back but after a disappointing 2-7 start, going 4-0 in week 4, including 3 road wins have the Mavs breathing a sigh of relief, especially from new head coach Rick Carlisle. I will have a better understanding of the Mavs true color by the second week of December.
16 (20) Nets 6-6
I thought the Nets were supposed to be rebuilding. Maybe not, all-star Vince Carter and Devin Harris are the league’s highest scoring duo at 47.5ppg, 8rpg and 11.5apg. Word is the Cavaliers will offer Wally and Varejao for Vince before the trade deadline, by then we will see if the Nets are really rebuilding or content with the pieces they have.
17 (17) Heat 7-6
I am not surprise at all by the Heat 7-6 start. How can a team with Shawn Marion, Dwyane Wade and Michael Beasley not be good enough to at least make the playoffs? Dwyane Wade, the nba’s second leading scorer at 28.9ppg was not a question mark for me. Shawn Marion was always the key. In six earlier games this season he averaged 9ppg and 8rpg, over the last 3 he averaged almost 17ppg and 10.7rpg. If Marion can average 15ppg and 10apg consistently the Heat could be very interesting.
18 (19) Bucks 7-8
The Bucks are still without their sharp shooting all-star guard Michael Redd, but have been very competitive under the leadership of new head coach Scott Skiles. The emergence of second year guard Ramon Sessions has helped him stabilize the Bucks point guard position. The Bucks should be a playoff team if Redd returns soon.
19 (13) Raptors 6-7
Everybody keeps talking about Lebron leaving Cleveland, but I think it’s Chris Bosh people should be worry about. His 26.7ppg and 10.5rpg is as good as gold yet the Raptors are only 6-7 for the season. The Raptors also have newcomer Jermain O’neal averaging 12.4ppg and 8.8rpg, but the Raptors still managed an embarrassing 118-103 home loss to the Celtics to wrap up a disappointing 1-3 week. Coach Sam Mitchell better get it together.
20 (16) Bulls 6-8
The Bulls are a work in progress but they do have Derrick Rose the leading candidate for the rookie of the year award entering week 5. I expect a trade to be made namely, guards Larry Hughes, Kirk Hinrick and Ben Gordon will all be shopped before the trade deadline.
21 (14) Knicks 7-6
All this talk about Lebron going to New York went into overdrive when the Knicks traded Jamal Crawford to the Warriors for Al Harrington and Zack Randolph to the Clippers for Cuttino Mobley. The Knicks put themselves in position to go after at least two big name free agents in 2010, but in the interim they took a step backwards and the chance of making the playoffs is now in jeopardy.
22 (21) Pacers 5-7
The Pacers are a very athletic team and have the talent to beat any team on any given night, but the reality is they are only good as their record. I predicted before the season that they will not make the playoffs. Without Mike Dunleavy who’s been out the entire season due to injury, I don’t see them proving me wrong. On a positive note, their best player Danny Granger may make his first all-star team this year if he maintains his 23.9ppg.
23 (22) Warriors 5-8
The Warriors Stephen Jackson is averaging 21.9ppg but is taking 18.9 shots and making only 39.4 percent of them. With the addition of Jamal Crawford and when Ellis returns in about a month, Jackson shot attempts should decrease and his percentage will improve because he will actually be the Warriors third option as oppose to their first right now. Ellis, Crawford, Jackson, Maggette and Biedrins will be very electrifying on offense and may make a playoff push if Ellis can return soon.
24 (25) Kings 5-10
A 1-3 week shows how much the Kings are missing their leading scorer Kevin Martin’s 22.4ppg. They are perhaps the most competitive losing team in the league. They compete every night and with Martin are better than the 5-10 overall record.
25 (29) Timberwolves 3-9
I must apologize for claiming last week that the Timberwolves would battle the Thunder for the 29th spot for the entire season. I am not saying they are a top 20 team or anything close right now, but with a 2-2 week highlighted by a 26 points blowout of the Pistons in Detroit, the Timberwolves were able to move up four positions to the 25th spot by the end of week 4.
26 (26) Grizzlies 4-9
No matter how much you root for the Grizzlies, the reality is their best player is a rookie. O.J. Mayo will continue to put up big numbers and challenge Rose and Beasley for rookie of the year, but it will take three years for us to discuss the Grizzlies with any real significance. Three straight losses give them the 26th spot.
27 (24) Bobcats 3-9
The Bobcats continues to play hard for head coach Larry Brown. Even though they went 0-4 in week 3, three of their losses were by 5 points, only two possessions in each game. I think it’s time to pull the trigger on Gerald Wallace and put an end to the trade rumors so the team can move forward.
28 (28) Clippers 2-11
I took a moment to analyze the Clippers situation and by now there’s no secret they need an inside scorer, but that’s only one problem. Baron Davis is averaging 16.9ppg on 16.2 shots making 38.7 percent of them. He is also averaging 6.8 3s a game making only 1.9 of them. Trading for an inside player like Zack Randolph answers the first question, but it ends with Baron. Baron Davis must average 20ppg, 9.5apg, 45 percent from the field, 35 percent from 3s with less than 4 attempts per game. The Clippers season will turn around with those changes, but it may be too late to salvage this season, especially after a 2-11 start.
29 (27) Wizards 1-10
I predicted last week that Eddie Jordan was to be held accountable and not to my surprise the Wizards pulled the trigger. I still don’t see them making the playoffs and it’s unfortunate he had to be the skip goat, but with a 1-10 start change was inevitable.
30 (30) Thunder 1-13
Sorry P.J, but when you are the coach on the worst team in basketball, your job is always suspect. I always wonder, why do certain individuals take on terrible head coaching jobs knowing they are bound for failure? Well hopefully second year stud Kevin Durant can be unleashed now that the shackles that bounded him under coach P.J. has been remove. Either way, the Thunder will have the highest odds of winning the first pick in next year’s draft.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
NBA WIZARD POWER RANKING 2008-2009 WEEK 3 RESULTS (NOV 10-16)
RANK (LAST WK/NOW) REC.
1 (2) Lakers 7-1
The Lakers managed to hang on to the 1st spot entering week 4 even with a 106-95 loss to the Detroit Pistons, their first of the season.
2 (2) Celtics 9-2
The Celtics enters week 4 maintaining the 2nd spot. They finished week 3 with a 4-1 record but their 94-85 loss to the new look Denver Nuggets kept them from reclaiming the 1st spot.
3 (3) Cavaliers 8-2
The Cleveland Cavaliers are owners of the nba’s longest current winning streak. Since starting with a 1-2 record, the Cavaliers have won 7 straight and have the highest scoring ‘big 3’ in the nba with Lebron, Big Z and newly acquired point guard Mo Williams averaging a combined 60.2ppg. During the winning streak they’ve averaged a combined 65ppg and are ranked no. 1 in offensive efficiency in the league.
4 (5) Suns 8-3
The Phoenix Suns have been playing under the radar and have slowly inched their way up in the top 4 with a with a 3-1 week. The Amare – Shaquille experiment seems to be working.
5 (10) Magic 7-3
A 3-1 week moved the Orlando Magic up five positions to the 5th spot. I expect a decline from here.
6 (9) Pistons 7-3
The A.I experiment has been up and down to say the least. The Pistons loss two straight after making the trade with A.I averaging 17 ppg. Then last week they won 3 straight with A.I averaging 26ppg while making 44.4% of his shot. They ended week 3 with a 104-86 loss to the Phoenix Suns with A.I scoring 9 points on a horrific 4 for 17 shooting. As Iverson goes, so goes the Pistons it seems since his arrival.
7 (12) Nuggets 6-4
The Nuggets moved up 5 spots with a 3-1 week which included an impressive 94-85 win over the defending champion Boston Celtics. Newly acquired point guard Chauncey Billups is playing well and the Nuggets are following his lead.
8 (11) Rockets 6-4
A 2-1 week was just enough to move the Rockets into the 8th spot. However, they have been disappointing and are still trying to adjust since acquiring Ron Artest. Shane Battier is still injured and maybe his return will give the Rockets the perfect balance between McGrady and Ron Artest.
9 (4) Hawks 6-3
The Atlanta Hawks have lost three straight games since starting the season 6-0, the last two without superhuman defender Josh Smith who has been out with an ankle injury. Expect this decline until Smith returns.
10 (13) TrailBlazers 6-4
Even without center Greg Oden out for six games with an ankle injury, the Blazers are off to a 6-4 start thanks to two game winning shots by super stud Brandon Roy. They were 3-1 in week 3 and Oden is back. They might make the playoff this year especially if Oden stays healthy.
11 (7) Hornets 5-4
I don’t know what to make of the Hornets yet. With the addition of James Posey I expected them to be among the elite teams in the league. It’s still early so let’s not get nervous yet.
12 (6) Jazz 6-4
Considering all the injuries the Jazz have had early on in the season, the 12th spot is not a bad place to be. Keep in mind this is with 3 straight losses in week 3.
13 (8) Raptors 5-4
The Raptors have been struggling as of late and without a healthy Jose Calderon, second in assist in the nba, I don’t expect them to make a serious push for a top ten spot.
14 (14) Knicks 6-4
A 2-2 week have the Knicks in the 14th spot. Starbury and Eddy Curry are still absent so I guess D’Antoni is making all the right moves so far. However, for the Knicks to improve they must look to move those players, but then again who really wants them.
15 (19) 76ers 5-5
Early in the season the 76ers blew a 23 point lead to the Atlanta Hawks. They made up for that loss by overcoming a 26 point deficit in a game against the Indiana Pacers which they won by 94-92. Over the last two games Thaddeus Young has averaged 24ppg helping the 76ers go 3-1 in week 3 to move them up four positions to the 15th spot entering week four.
16 (17) Bulls 5-5
The Bulls are still without point guard Kirk Hinrich for at least another two months. They managed a 2-1 week and earned the 16th spot thanks to the return of guard Larry Hughes and forward Drew Gooden.
17 (15) Heat 5-5
The Heat have the nba’s second leading scorer in Dwyane Wade and Michael Beasley is one of the league’s top 3 rookies, hence a 5-5 record. Surprisingly they are one of the league’s best defensive team which is why I like their upside.
18 (25) Spurs 4-5
After a terrible 1-4 start without Manu and then having to lose Tony to an ankle injury, the Spurs have gone 3-1 and defensively are beginning to find themselves again. All they need to do is stay close and I think they will do just that until Manu and Tony returns.
19 (18) Bucks 5-6
The Bucks have been without their all-star guard Michael Redd but still went 2-2 in week 3 including an overtime loss against the defending champion Boston Celtics to earn the 19th spot entering week 4.
20 (23) Nets 4-5
The Nets went 2-2 in week 3 but finished with back to back wins over the Atlanta Hawks to earn the 20th spot, up 3 positions from the previous week. Nets point guard Devin Harris playing like an all-star averaged 31.5ppg in the two wins.
21 (16) Pacers 4-5
The Pacers started the week with two straight wins but ended week 3 with back to back losses to the 76ers and Bulls dropping them five positions to the 21st spot.
22 (26) Warriors 4-6
The only thing positive about going 1-3 is the 37 points performance by the little known Anthony Morrow. The Warriors 3 losses were a combined 16 points and if super stud Monte Ellis was in the lineup things could be a lot different which is why I like their upside. The question is can they stay afloat until Ellis return?
23 (24) Mavericks 3-7
Trade Stackhouse and Josh Howard and maybe things will change, because as of right now the Mavs are a complete mess. A 1-3 week 3 and 3-7 overall record, means change is coming for the Mavericks.
24 (22) Bobcats 3-6
The Charlotte Bobcats are trying to trade Gerald Wallace in order to move Emeka Okafor from the center to the power forward position. Maybe trade rumors had something to do with their 1-2 record for week 3. Let’s face it the Bobcats are not that good anyways.
25 (20) Kings 4-7
The Kings are without their superstar Kevin Martin’s 22.4ppg who out with an injury resulting in a 1-3 week 3. However, the Kings last two losses were close ones to Phoenix 97-95 and San Antonio 90-88 earning them the 25th spot entering week 4.
26 (21) Grizzlies 3-7
O.J Mayo has taken over the first spot in the rookie of the year race, slightly ahead of Chicago’s Derrick Rose with a 21ppg season average. The Grizzlies also have Marc Gasol, L.A’s Pau younger brother who will eventually be better than his older brother in 3 years. The Grizzlies have a really nice nucleus of Mayo, Gay and Gasol.
27 (28) Wizards 1-6
The Wizards are struggling way more than I thought they would even though they are without their all-star Gilbert Arenas who is out for at least another month. Coach Eddie Jordan must be held accountable because he still has two mid level all-star caliber players, Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison playing.
28 (27) Clippers 1-8
Hurry up and trade center Chris Kaman already because it is obvious he is not a good fit with Baron Davis. As for Mr. Davis, I guess he got his wish… He’s playing at home and making the money he wanted, but I am positive he didn’t anticipate a 1-8 start.
29 (30) Timberwolves 1-9
The Timberwolves are in a rebuilding mold so let’s just say and that’s all that can be said for them. Hopefully the Boston Celtics organization is paying the Timberwolves G.M. and former Celtics great Kevin McHale a secret amount for giving away Kevin Garnett.
30 (29) Thunder 1-8
I guess throughout the season the Thunder and Timberwolves will battle for the highest probability of winning the number one pick in the 2009-2010 draft. Entering week 4 the Thunder earned the title as the league’s worse team.
1 (2) Lakers 7-1
The Lakers managed to hang on to the 1st spot entering week 4 even with a 106-95 loss to the Detroit Pistons, their first of the season.
2 (2) Celtics 9-2
The Celtics enters week 4 maintaining the 2nd spot. They finished week 3 with a 4-1 record but their 94-85 loss to the new look Denver Nuggets kept them from reclaiming the 1st spot.
3 (3) Cavaliers 8-2
The Cleveland Cavaliers are owners of the nba’s longest current winning streak. Since starting with a 1-2 record, the Cavaliers have won 7 straight and have the highest scoring ‘big 3’ in the nba with Lebron, Big Z and newly acquired point guard Mo Williams averaging a combined 60.2ppg. During the winning streak they’ve averaged a combined 65ppg and are ranked no. 1 in offensive efficiency in the league.
4 (5) Suns 8-3
The Phoenix Suns have been playing under the radar and have slowly inched their way up in the top 4 with a with a 3-1 week. The Amare – Shaquille experiment seems to be working.
5 (10) Magic 7-3
A 3-1 week moved the Orlando Magic up five positions to the 5th spot. I expect a decline from here.
6 (9) Pistons 7-3
The A.I experiment has been up and down to say the least. The Pistons loss two straight after making the trade with A.I averaging 17 ppg. Then last week they won 3 straight with A.I averaging 26ppg while making 44.4% of his shot. They ended week 3 with a 104-86 loss to the Phoenix Suns with A.I scoring 9 points on a horrific 4 for 17 shooting. As Iverson goes, so goes the Pistons it seems since his arrival.
7 (12) Nuggets 6-4
The Nuggets moved up 5 spots with a 3-1 week which included an impressive 94-85 win over the defending champion Boston Celtics. Newly acquired point guard Chauncey Billups is playing well and the Nuggets are following his lead.
8 (11) Rockets 6-4
A 2-1 week was just enough to move the Rockets into the 8th spot. However, they have been disappointing and are still trying to adjust since acquiring Ron Artest. Shane Battier is still injured and maybe his return will give the Rockets the perfect balance between McGrady and Ron Artest.
9 (4) Hawks 6-3
The Atlanta Hawks have lost three straight games since starting the season 6-0, the last two without superhuman defender Josh Smith who has been out with an ankle injury. Expect this decline until Smith returns.
10 (13) TrailBlazers 6-4
Even without center Greg Oden out for six games with an ankle injury, the Blazers are off to a 6-4 start thanks to two game winning shots by super stud Brandon Roy. They were 3-1 in week 3 and Oden is back. They might make the playoff this year especially if Oden stays healthy.
11 (7) Hornets 5-4
I don’t know what to make of the Hornets yet. With the addition of James Posey I expected them to be among the elite teams in the league. It’s still early so let’s not get nervous yet.
12 (6) Jazz 6-4
Considering all the injuries the Jazz have had early on in the season, the 12th spot is not a bad place to be. Keep in mind this is with 3 straight losses in week 3.
13 (8) Raptors 5-4
The Raptors have been struggling as of late and without a healthy Jose Calderon, second in assist in the nba, I don’t expect them to make a serious push for a top ten spot.
14 (14) Knicks 6-4
A 2-2 week have the Knicks in the 14th spot. Starbury and Eddy Curry are still absent so I guess D’Antoni is making all the right moves so far. However, for the Knicks to improve they must look to move those players, but then again who really wants them.
15 (19) 76ers 5-5
Early in the season the 76ers blew a 23 point lead to the Atlanta Hawks. They made up for that loss by overcoming a 26 point deficit in a game against the Indiana Pacers which they won by 94-92. Over the last two games Thaddeus Young has averaged 24ppg helping the 76ers go 3-1 in week 3 to move them up four positions to the 15th spot entering week four.
16 (17) Bulls 5-5
The Bulls are still without point guard Kirk Hinrich for at least another two months. They managed a 2-1 week and earned the 16th spot thanks to the return of guard Larry Hughes and forward Drew Gooden.
17 (15) Heat 5-5
The Heat have the nba’s second leading scorer in Dwyane Wade and Michael Beasley is one of the league’s top 3 rookies, hence a 5-5 record. Surprisingly they are one of the league’s best defensive team which is why I like their upside.
18 (25) Spurs 4-5
After a terrible 1-4 start without Manu and then having to lose Tony to an ankle injury, the Spurs have gone 3-1 and defensively are beginning to find themselves again. All they need to do is stay close and I think they will do just that until Manu and Tony returns.
19 (18) Bucks 5-6
The Bucks have been without their all-star guard Michael Redd but still went 2-2 in week 3 including an overtime loss against the defending champion Boston Celtics to earn the 19th spot entering week 4.
20 (23) Nets 4-5
The Nets went 2-2 in week 3 but finished with back to back wins over the Atlanta Hawks to earn the 20th spot, up 3 positions from the previous week. Nets point guard Devin Harris playing like an all-star averaged 31.5ppg in the two wins.
21 (16) Pacers 4-5
The Pacers started the week with two straight wins but ended week 3 with back to back losses to the 76ers and Bulls dropping them five positions to the 21st spot.
22 (26) Warriors 4-6
The only thing positive about going 1-3 is the 37 points performance by the little known Anthony Morrow. The Warriors 3 losses were a combined 16 points and if super stud Monte Ellis was in the lineup things could be a lot different which is why I like their upside. The question is can they stay afloat until Ellis return?
23 (24) Mavericks 3-7
Trade Stackhouse and Josh Howard and maybe things will change, because as of right now the Mavs are a complete mess. A 1-3 week 3 and 3-7 overall record, means change is coming for the Mavericks.
24 (22) Bobcats 3-6
The Charlotte Bobcats are trying to trade Gerald Wallace in order to move Emeka Okafor from the center to the power forward position. Maybe trade rumors had something to do with their 1-2 record for week 3. Let’s face it the Bobcats are not that good anyways.
25 (20) Kings 4-7
The Kings are without their superstar Kevin Martin’s 22.4ppg who out with an injury resulting in a 1-3 week 3. However, the Kings last two losses were close ones to Phoenix 97-95 and San Antonio 90-88 earning them the 25th spot entering week 4.
26 (21) Grizzlies 3-7
O.J Mayo has taken over the first spot in the rookie of the year race, slightly ahead of Chicago’s Derrick Rose with a 21ppg season average. The Grizzlies also have Marc Gasol, L.A’s Pau younger brother who will eventually be better than his older brother in 3 years. The Grizzlies have a really nice nucleus of Mayo, Gay and Gasol.
27 (28) Wizards 1-6
The Wizards are struggling way more than I thought they would even though they are without their all-star Gilbert Arenas who is out for at least another month. Coach Eddie Jordan must be held accountable because he still has two mid level all-star caliber players, Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison playing.
28 (27) Clippers 1-8
Hurry up and trade center Chris Kaman already because it is obvious he is not a good fit with Baron Davis. As for Mr. Davis, I guess he got his wish… He’s playing at home and making the money he wanted, but I am positive he didn’t anticipate a 1-8 start.
29 (30) Timberwolves 1-9
The Timberwolves are in a rebuilding mold so let’s just say and that’s all that can be said for them. Hopefully the Boston Celtics organization is paying the Timberwolves G.M. and former Celtics great Kevin McHale a secret amount for giving away Kevin Garnett.
30 (29) Thunder 1-8
I guess throughout the season the Thunder and Timberwolves will battle for the highest probability of winning the number one pick in the 2009-2010 draft. Entering week 4 the Thunder earned the title as the league’s worse team.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
NBA WIZARD 2008-09 POWER RANKING: WEEK 3
RANK
(NOW/LAST WK) REC.
1 (1) Lakers 5-0
The unbeaten Los Angeles Lakers are by far the best team this early in the season. They were able to maintain the first spot for week 3 by blowing out the Rockets by 29 points.
2 (3) Celtics 6-1
After a 4-0 week which ended with a convincing 88-76 win against the Pistons on the road, the Celtics moved up to the 2nd spot.
3 (10) Cavaliers 5-2
It Starts and ends with Lebron James and this is no hit on newcomer Mo Williams. After a subpar week 2 leading to a 1-2 record, Lebron averaged 34.5ppg while making 84.3% from the free throw line as he won the Eastern Conference player of the week award.
4 (9) Hawks 5-0
After losing Josh Smith for 2 to 4 weeks I for one thought the Hawks would struggle. Since then the Hawks have gone on to win 3 straight and are still unbeaten with a 5-0 record.
5 (8) Suns 5-2
After a 3-1 week that ended with a win against the Milwaukee Bucks in which Shaq turned back the clock with 29 points and 11 boards, the Suns moved up to the 5th spot.
6 (5) Jazz 5-1
The Jazz continue to dominate even without point guard Deron Williams who is schedule to return soon. The Jazz suffer their first loss of the season against the Knicks but only move down one spot.
7 (2) Hornets 4-2
The Hornets ended a two game skid with a win against the Miami Heat. They also welcome back center Tyson Chandler and forward Peja Stojakovic back to their lineup. Expect them to move up.
8 (7) Raptors 4-2
After losing to Boston and Atlanta, two of the hottest teams in the league, the Raptors ended their week with a win against the Charlotte Bobcats to secure the 8th spot.
9 (5) Pistons 4-2
The Pistons are 0-2 since trading for Allen Iverson. Iverson has been trying to fit in and his 17ppg must increase for the Pistons to be successful. Ironically, it is Iverson’s scoring that the Pistons need and I definitely expect him to produce. The Pistons are also missing Antonio Mcdyess who was traded along with Chauncey for Iverson. Rumor has it Mcdyess will return to the Pistons in 30 days.
10 (16) Magic 4-2
With all star center Dwight Howard leading the league in rebounds 14.4 and blocks 3.6, the Magic moved up to the 10th after a 3-0 week.
11 (4) Rockets 4-3
By default the Rockets have the 11th spot. Yao, Tracy and Ron Artest are averaging a combined 48.7ppg 19.8rpg and 8.8apg. Keep in mind these numbers have decline since week one. The Rockets must do a better job of establishing Yao. 16.6ppg is simply not going to cut it. Yao needs to average 22 to 25ppg 10+rpg for the Rockets to be successful. Also, the Rockets will not survive with Ron Artest and Tracy shooting 35% from the field.
12 (18) Nuggets 3-3
The Nuggets have won 2 straight since trading for Chauncey. Now the team knows what direction organization is heading. Whether it’s a good direction remains to be seen but the Nuggets moved up to the 12th spot.
13 (17) TrailBlazers 3-3
The TrailBlazers could have easily ended up 0-3, but thanks to two game winning shots by Brandon Roy against the Houston Rockets and the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Blazers pulled of a 2-1 week. Center Greg Oden is still out for at least two more weeks due to a bruise ankle.
14 (26) Knicks 4-2
Moving on up. The Knicks have benched Stephon Marbury and Eddy Curry permanently. Both players are considered poison and very expensive poison I might add. Both players combine for $30.5 million, wow! Well the Knicks were 3-1 and are deserving of the 14th spot up from 26th a week ago.
15 (24) Heat 3-3
The Heat have Dywane Wade and rookie sensation Michael Beasley are averaging 43ppg. Shawn Marion is under performing with 10.3ppg but the Miami Heat are off to a 3-3 start.
16 (14) Pacers 2-3
With a 1-2 week the Pacers were still good enough to finish at the 16th spot. Let’s not forget they give the defending champions Boston Celtics their only defeat of the season.
17 (15) Bulls 3-3
The Bulls were 1-3 with two loses to the Cleveland Cavaliers in which Lebron scored 41 points in both games. They lost their usually very healthy starting guard Hinrich for 3 months. The Bulls are also without guard Larry Hughes and forward Drew Gooden.
18 (20) Bucks 3-4
Second year guard Ramon Sessions has more than made up for the loss of Mo Williams. He is averaging 17.2ppg and 6.2apg, almost identical numbers to what Mo averaged last season. As a result, the Bucks we 2-2 for the week and were able to claim the 18th spot without all star Michael Redd out with an injury.
19 (13) 76ers 2-4
The 76ers continue their rapid decline with a 1-2 week. Some experts considered the 76ers the third best team in the East, even ahead of the Cavaliers before the season started. Let’s just say they were all wrong. Elton Brand, a career 20ppg, 10rpg guy was supposed to be the difference. Though is rebounding is slightly up to 11.8, his scoring has declined to only 14ppg this season. The 76ers must figure out a way to get Brand more involved.
20 (30) Kings 3-4
After starting the season 0-3 the Kings won 3 of their last 4 games claiming the 20th spot moving ten places up from last place.
21 (21) Grizzlies 3-4
With the help of rookie sensation O.J. Mayo’s team leading 19ppg, the Grizzlies went 2-2 maintaining the 21st spot for a second straight week.
22 (19) Bobcats 2-4
The Bobcats had a 1-3 week dropping them to the 22nd spot. Under new head coach Larry Brown the Bobcats plays hard but they will not make the playoffs this season.
23 (22) Nets 2-3
Point guard Devin Harris is averaging 18.8ppg in 4 games for the Nets this season. He exploded for 38 points against the Pistons for the Nets lone win helping them go 1-2 for the week.
24 (11) Mavericks 2-4
The Dallas Mavericks is the most disappointing team so far this season. With Dirk, Josh and the two Jasons averaging almost 70ppg between them, you would think the Mavs would have a much better record. Unfortunately, the Mavs are not playing any defense. Something has to be done and new coach Rick Carlisle must figure it out soon.
25 (12) Spurs 1-4
All I have to say is really bad luck. Manu was already out due to injury and now Tony’s out. A day after increasing his nba scoring lead to 33.3ppg with a 55 points performance in a double overtime win against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Tony rolled his ankle. Fortunately for the Spurs he is only out 2-4 weeks. Still it’s hard to imagine a Spurs team with Tim Duncan being rank 25th with only one win.
26 (19) Warriors 2-5
The Warriors are without Al Harrington and Corey Maggette, both players are listed day to day. Monte Ellis is also out until at least December. With a 2-5 record the Warriors are in sole possession of the 26th spot.
27 (29) Clippers 1-6
Chris Kaman may be on the trading block but Baron Davis is the key to the Clippers success. Baron is currently averaging 15.5ppg and 7apg in 6 games this season. Those numbers need to be more like 21 and 8 for the Clippers to be competitive.
28 (25) Wizards 0-5
The Wizards are the only winless team in the nba but they still rank higher than the bottom two teams because they do have two all stars in Antawn and Caron Butler. Being without Gilbert Arenas, the team best player has also hurt the Wizards this season.
29 (27) Thunder 1-5
A 1-3 week is pretty much what you expect from the Thunder. This is obviously a lottery team.
30 (28) Timberwolves 1-5
Since winning their first game, the Timberwolves have gone on to lose their last 5 and earned the right to be ranked 30th, the worse team in the nba.
(NOW/LAST WK) REC.
1 (1) Lakers 5-0
The unbeaten Los Angeles Lakers are by far the best team this early in the season. They were able to maintain the first spot for week 3 by blowing out the Rockets by 29 points.
2 (3) Celtics 6-1
After a 4-0 week which ended with a convincing 88-76 win against the Pistons on the road, the Celtics moved up to the 2nd spot.
3 (10) Cavaliers 5-2
It Starts and ends with Lebron James and this is no hit on newcomer Mo Williams. After a subpar week 2 leading to a 1-2 record, Lebron averaged 34.5ppg while making 84.3% from the free throw line as he won the Eastern Conference player of the week award.
4 (9) Hawks 5-0
After losing Josh Smith for 2 to 4 weeks I for one thought the Hawks would struggle. Since then the Hawks have gone on to win 3 straight and are still unbeaten with a 5-0 record.
5 (8) Suns 5-2
After a 3-1 week that ended with a win against the Milwaukee Bucks in which Shaq turned back the clock with 29 points and 11 boards, the Suns moved up to the 5th spot.
6 (5) Jazz 5-1
The Jazz continue to dominate even without point guard Deron Williams who is schedule to return soon. The Jazz suffer their first loss of the season against the Knicks but only move down one spot.
7 (2) Hornets 4-2
The Hornets ended a two game skid with a win against the Miami Heat. They also welcome back center Tyson Chandler and forward Peja Stojakovic back to their lineup. Expect them to move up.
8 (7) Raptors 4-2
After losing to Boston and Atlanta, two of the hottest teams in the league, the Raptors ended their week with a win against the Charlotte Bobcats to secure the 8th spot.
9 (5) Pistons 4-2
The Pistons are 0-2 since trading for Allen Iverson. Iverson has been trying to fit in and his 17ppg must increase for the Pistons to be successful. Ironically, it is Iverson’s scoring that the Pistons need and I definitely expect him to produce. The Pistons are also missing Antonio Mcdyess who was traded along with Chauncey for Iverson. Rumor has it Mcdyess will return to the Pistons in 30 days.
10 (16) Magic 4-2
With all star center Dwight Howard leading the league in rebounds 14.4 and blocks 3.6, the Magic moved up to the 10th after a 3-0 week.
11 (4) Rockets 4-3
By default the Rockets have the 11th spot. Yao, Tracy and Ron Artest are averaging a combined 48.7ppg 19.8rpg and 8.8apg. Keep in mind these numbers have decline since week one. The Rockets must do a better job of establishing Yao. 16.6ppg is simply not going to cut it. Yao needs to average 22 to 25ppg 10+rpg for the Rockets to be successful. Also, the Rockets will not survive with Ron Artest and Tracy shooting 35% from the field.
12 (18) Nuggets 3-3
The Nuggets have won 2 straight since trading for Chauncey. Now the team knows what direction organization is heading. Whether it’s a good direction remains to be seen but the Nuggets moved up to the 12th spot.
13 (17) TrailBlazers 3-3
The TrailBlazers could have easily ended up 0-3, but thanks to two game winning shots by Brandon Roy against the Houston Rockets and the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Blazers pulled of a 2-1 week. Center Greg Oden is still out for at least two more weeks due to a bruise ankle.
14 (26) Knicks 4-2
Moving on up. The Knicks have benched Stephon Marbury and Eddy Curry permanently. Both players are considered poison and very expensive poison I might add. Both players combine for $30.5 million, wow! Well the Knicks were 3-1 and are deserving of the 14th spot up from 26th a week ago.
15 (24) Heat 3-3
The Heat have Dywane Wade and rookie sensation Michael Beasley are averaging 43ppg. Shawn Marion is under performing with 10.3ppg but the Miami Heat are off to a 3-3 start.
16 (14) Pacers 2-3
With a 1-2 week the Pacers were still good enough to finish at the 16th spot. Let’s not forget they give the defending champions Boston Celtics their only defeat of the season.
17 (15) Bulls 3-3
The Bulls were 1-3 with two loses to the Cleveland Cavaliers in which Lebron scored 41 points in both games. They lost their usually very healthy starting guard Hinrich for 3 months. The Bulls are also without guard Larry Hughes and forward Drew Gooden.
18 (20) Bucks 3-4
Second year guard Ramon Sessions has more than made up for the loss of Mo Williams. He is averaging 17.2ppg and 6.2apg, almost identical numbers to what Mo averaged last season. As a result, the Bucks we 2-2 for the week and were able to claim the 18th spot without all star Michael Redd out with an injury.
19 (13) 76ers 2-4
The 76ers continue their rapid decline with a 1-2 week. Some experts considered the 76ers the third best team in the East, even ahead of the Cavaliers before the season started. Let’s just say they were all wrong. Elton Brand, a career 20ppg, 10rpg guy was supposed to be the difference. Though is rebounding is slightly up to 11.8, his scoring has declined to only 14ppg this season. The 76ers must figure out a way to get Brand more involved.
20 (30) Kings 3-4
After starting the season 0-3 the Kings won 3 of their last 4 games claiming the 20th spot moving ten places up from last place.
21 (21) Grizzlies 3-4
With the help of rookie sensation O.J. Mayo’s team leading 19ppg, the Grizzlies went 2-2 maintaining the 21st spot for a second straight week.
22 (19) Bobcats 2-4
The Bobcats had a 1-3 week dropping them to the 22nd spot. Under new head coach Larry Brown the Bobcats plays hard but they will not make the playoffs this season.
23 (22) Nets 2-3
Point guard Devin Harris is averaging 18.8ppg in 4 games for the Nets this season. He exploded for 38 points against the Pistons for the Nets lone win helping them go 1-2 for the week.
24 (11) Mavericks 2-4
The Dallas Mavericks is the most disappointing team so far this season. With Dirk, Josh and the two Jasons averaging almost 70ppg between them, you would think the Mavs would have a much better record. Unfortunately, the Mavs are not playing any defense. Something has to be done and new coach Rick Carlisle must figure it out soon.
25 (12) Spurs 1-4
All I have to say is really bad luck. Manu was already out due to injury and now Tony’s out. A day after increasing his nba scoring lead to 33.3ppg with a 55 points performance in a double overtime win against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Tony rolled his ankle. Fortunately for the Spurs he is only out 2-4 weeks. Still it’s hard to imagine a Spurs team with Tim Duncan being rank 25th with only one win.
26 (19) Warriors 2-5
The Warriors are without Al Harrington and Corey Maggette, both players are listed day to day. Monte Ellis is also out until at least December. With a 2-5 record the Warriors are in sole possession of the 26th spot.
27 (29) Clippers 1-6
Chris Kaman may be on the trading block but Baron Davis is the key to the Clippers success. Baron is currently averaging 15.5ppg and 7apg in 6 games this season. Those numbers need to be more like 21 and 8 for the Clippers to be competitive.
28 (25) Wizards 0-5
The Wizards are the only winless team in the nba but they still rank higher than the bottom two teams because they do have two all stars in Antawn and Caron Butler. Being without Gilbert Arenas, the team best player has also hurt the Wizards this season.
29 (27) Thunder 1-5
A 1-3 week is pretty much what you expect from the Thunder. This is obviously a lottery team.
30 (28) Timberwolves 1-5
Since winning their first game, the Timberwolves have gone on to lose their last 5 and earned the right to be ranked 30th, the worse team in the nba.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
NBA WIZARD 2008-09 POWER RANKING: WEEK 2
RANK
(Now/Last WK) REC.
1 (2) Lakers 3-0 It only took a week for the Lakers to claim the first spot. The fact that they are off to a 3-0 start has a lot to do with it, but so does the Hornets. The Lakers though are averaging almost 22 points more than their opponents and this is the main reason they own the first spot.
2 (3) Hornets 3-0
The Hornets also move above the champs to take over the 2nd spot with a 3-0 start. They started with two road wins and an impressive home opener without starters Peja and Chandler in the lineup against the Cavaliers. Not for the Lakers 22 ppg win margin the Hornets would have taken over the 1st spot.
3 (1) Celtics 2-1
The Celtics were off to a 2-0 start before stumbling with a loss against the Indiana Pacers, a feat that seem very unlikely before the start of the season. The loss of James Posey and P.J. Brown is the reason the Celtics will not repeat unless they somehow can pick up Alonzo Mourning or Antonio McDyess if his contract is bought out by the Nuggets.
4 (7) Rockets 3-0
The Rockets are also off to a 3-0 start. My only concern is over the health of Yao and Tracy. Yao will have to play 70 games this season for the Rockets to seriously compete for a championship. Yao has only played in 160 out of 246 games over the last 3 seasons, an average of 53.3 games per season. He must stay healthy and the addition of Ron Artest should help.
5 (8) Jazz 2-0
The Jazz are off to an impressive 2-0 start and they are doing this without starting point guard Deron William who is still out with an ankle sprain. Boozer is off to a hot start with 25ppg and 12rpg with Brewer and Kirilenko are chipping in almost 30ppg and 10rpg to fill the void left by Williams.
6 (6) Pistons 2-0
With a 2-0 start the Pistons find themselves in the 6th spot the same position they were in a week ago.
7 (13) Raptors 3-0
The trade for Jermaine O’Neal has really benefited two of his new teammates. Chris Bosh is averaging 26ppg and 10 boards making almost 55% of his shots. Having O’Neal has helped reduce the constant double teams he was used to getting. Point guard Jose Calderon is also off to a hot start now that he doesn’t have to compete with T.J. Ford, who was traded for O’Neal. He is averaging 18ppg, 9.7apg while making 50% of his shots.
8 (11) Suns 2-1
The Suns have moved up from the 11th to the 8th spot this week with a 2-1 start. Slowing the game down has been a huge adjustment for them but they are coming along.
9 (19) Hawks 2-0
The addition of Ronald Murray and Maurice Evans has clearly made up for the loss of Josh Childress. They combine for 15.5ppg, 7.5rpg, 3apg. But the monster start of Joe Johnson 30ppg is the reason the Hawks are off to a 2-0 start. Their season opening 14 points win on the road in Orlando was impressive, but it was their 23 points comeback against the 76ers that propelled them into the 9th spot up from 19th last week.
10 (4) Cavaliers 1-2
The excuse is the Cavaliers are adjusting to a faster pace while trying to learn how to play with Mo Williams. The reality is the Cavaliers are averaging 18.3 turnovers per game and Lebron is averaging 19.7ppg and 9.3apg. The Cavaliers must get no less than 27.5ppg, 7.5 apg and 7.0rpg from Lebron period! Also, they must reduce their turnovers.
11 (9) Mavericks 1-1
The Mavs are down a couple of spot with a 1-1 start. Was trading for Jason Kidd the right move for this team? I know it hasn’t been long enough but I am not sure adding Jason Kidd was a good fit for the Mavericks.
12 (5) Spurs 0-2
I know Manu is injured but Tony Parker and Tim Duncan are averaging a very impressive 57.5ppg, 11.5rpg and 10.5apg. The problem is while the Spurs are averaging 98.5ppg as a team, their opponents are averaging 101.5ppg. More than just Manu, the Spurs must show up their defense. Alonzo Mourning if healthy could definitely help Duncan like the way Jermaine O’Neal will help Chris Bosh.
13 (10) 76ers 1-2
I know it’s early but I’ve always believe games that teams give away always come back and hunt them in the season. Blowing a 23 point lead against the Hawks on the road was not the way to start the season. I expect the 76ers to recover but a 1-2 start dropped them from the 10th to the 13th spot this week.
14 (23) Pacers 1-1
What a jump! The Pacers moved up from the 23rd spot last week to the 14th this week with an impressive 95-79 win over the world champions Boston Celtics. Danny Granger is off to a great start 26.5ppg now that he is the Pacers go to player.
15 (18) Bulls 2-1
Rookie of the year candidate Derrick Rose is off to an impressive start 18.3ppg, 4.7rpg and 4.3apg. The Bulls are 2-1 with wins over the Milwaukee Bucks and the Memphis Grizzlies, moving up from the 18th to the 15th spot this week.
16 (12) Magic 1-2
I predicted the Magic would battle the Raptors for the 5th spot in the East but from their 1-2 start they might have to settle for the 6th seed in the East. Center Dwight Howard must improve his free throw percentage from 51.5% to at least 70% for the Magic to be taken seriously.
17 (16) Trail Blazers 1-2
I really feel for the Blazers. They lose center Greg Oden all of last season, and then again in the first game of the season to the Lakers. So far rookie Rudy Fernandez is averaging 14.3ppg and the TrailBlazers future look great.
18 (14) Nuggets 1-2
Trading Allen Iverson will help get things back on track. The Nuggets are off to a disappointing 1-2 start.
19 (15) Warriors 1-2
The Warriors are off to frustrating 1-2 start. They could easily be 3-0 but loss close games to New Orleans and the Toronto Raptors. They are surely missing Monte Ellis their best player who is out until December at the earliest.
20 (21) Bucks 2-2
Let’s hope Michael Redd is okay. They expect to make a run for the playoffs with Redd and Richard Jefferson.
21 (29) Grizzlies 1-2
O.J. Majo and Rudy Gay will make an exciting duo this season, but 1-2 start is pretty much what I expected from them. They played hard and came up short in loses to Chicago and Houston, but their lone win came against the Magic earning them the 21st spot going into week 2.
22 (28) Nets 1-1
A win against Washington without Arenas doesn’t mean much this early in the season, but it was good enough to earn the 22nd spot up from 28th last week.
23 (25) Bobcats 1-1
A win against the Heat means the Bobcats are one spot better. Expect them to play hard for coach Larry Brown but making the playoffs would shock me. I expect Miami and Washington to surpass them before the season is over.
24 (22) Heat 1-2
Shawn Marion, rookie Michael Beasley and Udonis Haslem just do not mix. They need Zo desperately and either Haslem or Marion must be must be traded for the Heat to improve. A loss to New York and Charlotte must have Pat Riley pondering a trade.
25 (17) Wizards 0-2
Gilbert Arenas may be injured but the Wizards were very competitive in both loses to New Jersey and Detroit. I expect them to recover and still make the playoffs.
26 (27) Knicks 1-2
Mike D’Antoni chose to coach New York when he had the perfect gig in Chicago. They would have matched his contract in New York but he obviously wasn’t interested. Well Mike got his wish, but before this season is over he will regret passing up the Bulls gig, especially when they were willing the lay out the red carpet for him.
27 (30) Thunder 1-2
Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant will be very exciting, but wins will be far apart for the Thunder this season. Kevin Durant might increase his output to 24+ppg this season
28 (26) Timberwolves 1-2
Mike Miller, Kevin Love, Al Jefferson and Rashad McCants on paper sound like a nice young group but in actuality they are at three years away from contending for the eight playoff seed in the West. Expect them to be exciting and maybe move up a few spots.
29 (20) Clippers 0-3
The L.A Clippers are clearly the most disappointing team so far this season. Baron Davis wish of returning home to L.A has been fulfilled, but I am positive he expected Elton Brand to be his teammate. I definitely expect the Clippers to improve soon.
30 (24) Kings 0-3
I guess they really missed Ron Artest. The funny thing is they could start the season 0-10 or if they are lucky 1-9. I expected more from them but then again it’’s early.
(Now/Last WK) REC.
1 (2) Lakers 3-0 It only took a week for the Lakers to claim the first spot. The fact that they are off to a 3-0 start has a lot to do with it, but so does the Hornets. The Lakers though are averaging almost 22 points more than their opponents and this is the main reason they own the first spot.
2 (3) Hornets 3-0
The Hornets also move above the champs to take over the 2nd spot with a 3-0 start. They started with two road wins and an impressive home opener without starters Peja and Chandler in the lineup against the Cavaliers. Not for the Lakers 22 ppg win margin the Hornets would have taken over the 1st spot.
3 (1) Celtics 2-1
The Celtics were off to a 2-0 start before stumbling with a loss against the Indiana Pacers, a feat that seem very unlikely before the start of the season. The loss of James Posey and P.J. Brown is the reason the Celtics will not repeat unless they somehow can pick up Alonzo Mourning or Antonio McDyess if his contract is bought out by the Nuggets.
4 (7) Rockets 3-0
The Rockets are also off to a 3-0 start. My only concern is over the health of Yao and Tracy. Yao will have to play 70 games this season for the Rockets to seriously compete for a championship. Yao has only played in 160 out of 246 games over the last 3 seasons, an average of 53.3 games per season. He must stay healthy and the addition of Ron Artest should help.
5 (8) Jazz 2-0
The Jazz are off to an impressive 2-0 start and they are doing this without starting point guard Deron William who is still out with an ankle sprain. Boozer is off to a hot start with 25ppg and 12rpg with Brewer and Kirilenko are chipping in almost 30ppg and 10rpg to fill the void left by Williams.
6 (6) Pistons 2-0
With a 2-0 start the Pistons find themselves in the 6th spot the same position they were in a week ago.
7 (13) Raptors 3-0
The trade for Jermaine O’Neal has really benefited two of his new teammates. Chris Bosh is averaging 26ppg and 10 boards making almost 55% of his shots. Having O’Neal has helped reduce the constant double teams he was used to getting. Point guard Jose Calderon is also off to a hot start now that he doesn’t have to compete with T.J. Ford, who was traded for O’Neal. He is averaging 18ppg, 9.7apg while making 50% of his shots.
8 (11) Suns 2-1
The Suns have moved up from the 11th to the 8th spot this week with a 2-1 start. Slowing the game down has been a huge adjustment for them but they are coming along.
9 (19) Hawks 2-0
The addition of Ronald Murray and Maurice Evans has clearly made up for the loss of Josh Childress. They combine for 15.5ppg, 7.5rpg, 3apg. But the monster start of Joe Johnson 30ppg is the reason the Hawks are off to a 2-0 start. Their season opening 14 points win on the road in Orlando was impressive, but it was their 23 points comeback against the 76ers that propelled them into the 9th spot up from 19th last week.
10 (4) Cavaliers 1-2
The excuse is the Cavaliers are adjusting to a faster pace while trying to learn how to play with Mo Williams. The reality is the Cavaliers are averaging 18.3 turnovers per game and Lebron is averaging 19.7ppg and 9.3apg. The Cavaliers must get no less than 27.5ppg, 7.5 apg and 7.0rpg from Lebron period! Also, they must reduce their turnovers.
11 (9) Mavericks 1-1
The Mavs are down a couple of spot with a 1-1 start. Was trading for Jason Kidd the right move for this team? I know it hasn’t been long enough but I am not sure adding Jason Kidd was a good fit for the Mavericks.
12 (5) Spurs 0-2
I know Manu is injured but Tony Parker and Tim Duncan are averaging a very impressive 57.5ppg, 11.5rpg and 10.5apg. The problem is while the Spurs are averaging 98.5ppg as a team, their opponents are averaging 101.5ppg. More than just Manu, the Spurs must show up their defense. Alonzo Mourning if healthy could definitely help Duncan like the way Jermaine O’Neal will help Chris Bosh.
13 (10) 76ers 1-2
I know it’s early but I’ve always believe games that teams give away always come back and hunt them in the season. Blowing a 23 point lead against the Hawks on the road was not the way to start the season. I expect the 76ers to recover but a 1-2 start dropped them from the 10th to the 13th spot this week.
14 (23) Pacers 1-1
What a jump! The Pacers moved up from the 23rd spot last week to the 14th this week with an impressive 95-79 win over the world champions Boston Celtics. Danny Granger is off to a great start 26.5ppg now that he is the Pacers go to player.
15 (18) Bulls 2-1
Rookie of the year candidate Derrick Rose is off to an impressive start 18.3ppg, 4.7rpg and 4.3apg. The Bulls are 2-1 with wins over the Milwaukee Bucks and the Memphis Grizzlies, moving up from the 18th to the 15th spot this week.
16 (12) Magic 1-2
I predicted the Magic would battle the Raptors for the 5th spot in the East but from their 1-2 start they might have to settle for the 6th seed in the East. Center Dwight Howard must improve his free throw percentage from 51.5% to at least 70% for the Magic to be taken seriously.
17 (16) Trail Blazers 1-2
I really feel for the Blazers. They lose center Greg Oden all of last season, and then again in the first game of the season to the Lakers. So far rookie Rudy Fernandez is averaging 14.3ppg and the TrailBlazers future look great.
18 (14) Nuggets 1-2
Trading Allen Iverson will help get things back on track. The Nuggets are off to a disappointing 1-2 start.
19 (15) Warriors 1-2
The Warriors are off to frustrating 1-2 start. They could easily be 3-0 but loss close games to New Orleans and the Toronto Raptors. They are surely missing Monte Ellis their best player who is out until December at the earliest.
20 (21) Bucks 2-2
Let’s hope Michael Redd is okay. They expect to make a run for the playoffs with Redd and Richard Jefferson.
21 (29) Grizzlies 1-2
O.J. Majo and Rudy Gay will make an exciting duo this season, but 1-2 start is pretty much what I expected from them. They played hard and came up short in loses to Chicago and Houston, but their lone win came against the Magic earning them the 21st spot going into week 2.
22 (28) Nets 1-1
A win against Washington without Arenas doesn’t mean much this early in the season, but it was good enough to earn the 22nd spot up from 28th last week.
23 (25) Bobcats 1-1
A win against the Heat means the Bobcats are one spot better. Expect them to play hard for coach Larry Brown but making the playoffs would shock me. I expect Miami and Washington to surpass them before the season is over.
24 (22) Heat 1-2
Shawn Marion, rookie Michael Beasley and Udonis Haslem just do not mix. They need Zo desperately and either Haslem or Marion must be must be traded for the Heat to improve. A loss to New York and Charlotte must have Pat Riley pondering a trade.
25 (17) Wizards 0-2
Gilbert Arenas may be injured but the Wizards were very competitive in both loses to New Jersey and Detroit. I expect them to recover and still make the playoffs.
26 (27) Knicks 1-2
Mike D’Antoni chose to coach New York when he had the perfect gig in Chicago. They would have matched his contract in New York but he obviously wasn’t interested. Well Mike got his wish, but before this season is over he will regret passing up the Bulls gig, especially when they were willing the lay out the red carpet for him.
27 (30) Thunder 1-2
Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant will be very exciting, but wins will be far apart for the Thunder this season. Kevin Durant might increase his output to 24+ppg this season
28 (26) Timberwolves 1-2
Mike Miller, Kevin Love, Al Jefferson and Rashad McCants on paper sound like a nice young group but in actuality they are at three years away from contending for the eight playoff seed in the West. Expect them to be exciting and maybe move up a few spots.
29 (20) Clippers 0-3
The L.A Clippers are clearly the most disappointing team so far this season. Baron Davis wish of returning home to L.A has been fulfilled, but I am positive he expected Elton Brand to be his teammate. I definitely expect the Clippers to improve soon.
30 (24) Kings 0-3
I guess they really missed Ron Artest. The funny thing is they could start the season 0-10 or if they are lucky 1-9. I expected more from them but then again it’’s early.
Monday, November 3, 2008
NBA WIZARD BREAKS DOWN A.I FOR CHAUNCEY & DYESS TRADE
The Denver Nuggets and the Detroit Pistons pulled off an early season blockbuster by trading Allen Iverson for Chauncey Billups, Antonio McDyess and the Pistons young center Cheikh Samb. Obviously the Pistons got A.I the best player in the trade but the Nuggets also got exactly what they needed.
The Denver Nuggets decided before the start of the season that the Allen Iverson – Carmelo Anthony experiment was not going to cut it this season. One of them had to be traded and A.I was the easier and logical choice. First of all, Allen will make $22 million this season and is in the final year of his contract. The Nuggets figured they were barely going to make the playoffs with A.I this season and if so probably weren’t good enough to compete. An early exit from the playoffs for the second straight season would have made it really difficult to convince A.I to return. Being a 34 year old free agent bound for the hall of fame, A.I would have more than likely left the Nuggets at the end of the season for a contender to try to win a championship. With Carmelo, up and coming guard J.R. Smith and Linas Kleiza already in their lineup the Nuggets felt like a true point guard is what they needed. Chauncey Billups definitely fits this bill. Picking up forward / center Antonio McDyess puts the icing on the cake if they end up keeping him. MyDyess clearly fills the void left by Marcus Camby, the Nuggets starting center from last season. Camby was traded to the Clippers for basically nothing before the start of this season.
Joe Dumars, the General Manager of the Detroit Pistons continues to be the best G.M in the NBA this decade. The only mistake he’s made is picking Darko Milicic over Dywane Wade and Carmelo Anthony, but other than that his decision making has been flawless. Trading for Iverson was the best move available for Joe because he was able to accomplish two things. First, he put the Pistons in a great position financially. The Pistons with the addition of A.I are committed to $71 million this season. With Both A.I and Rasheed contracts falling off the books the Pistons will enter next season with $33 million in total salaries. Secondly, the Pistons unlike the Nuggets are looking forward to the points A.I will bring. Over the past few seasons the Pistons offense has been stagnant and Chauncey’s inconsistency on offense is one one of the reasons for that. Even though he averaged 17ppg in each of the last two seasons he clearly didn’t live up to his nickname “Mr. Big Shot.” After a heartless 6 game series in which the Pistons loss miserably to the eventual champs Boston Celtics, Joe Dumars knew he had to make a change and indeed he did.
Chauncey is under contract until the 2010/2011 season during which time the Nuggets are banking on him improving Carmelo and J.R Smith’s game. Chauncey 32 has three years to make his mark and maybe ending his career in his home town might motivate him to re-establish his status as “Mr. Big Shot.”
NUGGETS B+
A.I wants to win a championship in the worse way and all he needs to do is average 22+ ppg, 7+apg and shoot over 45% from the field. His career averages are 27.7 ppg, 6.3apg and 42.6% from the field. However, since joining the Nuggets Iverson shooting percentage has increased to 45.6% which makes 22ppg, 7apg and 45% field goal percentage very likely. Obviously the Pistons are in a very good position to re-up even if the A.I situation doesn’t work out in Detroit. Unlike Billups who has had problems with the Celtics and the Cavaliers, A.I has flourished offensively against both teams. Other than financial flexibility this was probably the single most important reason that Joe Dumars traded for Iverson. The days of Chauncey scoring 8 points on 3 for 11 shooting in a crucial playoff game are over. A.I is capable of averaging 25+ppg against both of those teams in a series which makes this trade a brilliant move by Joe Dumars. You add those numbers to Rip Hamilton's 20ppg along with whatever you can get from Rasheed, Tayshaun, Stuckey and Maxiell, the new look Pistons should be more fluid on offense and pose a major challenge to the Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics.
DETROIT A-
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