RK (LW) TEAM REC
1 (1) SPURS 14-2
The Spurs retained their number one ranking by going 3-1 last week. There is no team hotter than the Spurs right now. They lost only once over their last 15 games thanks largely in part to Manu Ginobili, the Spurs shooting guard who pleaded with his teammates before the start of the season to not take the regular season for granted and their 14-2 record indicates that they heeded to his request. The Spurs are second in the league in scoring behind the Lakers at 107.2ppg with Giniobili leading the way with 21.6 points per game.
2 (5) CELTICS 12-4
The reason the Celtics are projected to make it to the NBA Finals is because they are the most balanced and well coached team in the East. Ray Allen spreads the floor with his excellent shooting. Paul Pierce slashes and balances the Celtics offense with his mid range game. Kevin Garnett is an excellent shooter for a big man up to 20 feet and can post up with the best of them. Rondo is the engine that makes the entire offense go. The Celtics ‘big 4’ along with Shaq all have different strengths that complement each other’s game.
3 (4) MAGIC 12-4
I think the Magic are a good team, but I just don’t see them beating the Celtics or even the injury depleted Heat in a 7 game series unless they make a drastic move. Vince is always injured and is definitely past his prime and his lack of defense and inconsistent play on offense makes him the most vulnerable to a trade. I think the Magic need a perimeter play maker who can be a threat defensively while also contributing 20 or more points per game consistently to be a force and I don’t think his name is Vince Carter.
4 (3) LAKERS 13-4
Kobe Bryant’s 36 points average was not enough to stop the Lakers from losing their last two games, but with a 13-4 record the Lakers are still in pretty good shape and they’ve been able to do this without Andrew Bynum, their starting center. With the emergence of San Antonio this season and the Celtics, Magic and Heat lurking from afar, I think the Lakers need to prolong Bynum’s return until he is absolutely healthy, because unlike the last two seasons, I see the Lakers 3-peating without Bynum being completely healthy.
5 (9) JAZZ 13-5
The Jazz are back in the top 5 thanks to two very impressive wins over the Hornets and the Lakers. Overall the Jazz have won their last five games and have an 8-2 record over their last ten games. Point guard Deron Williams is leading the way with 21.9ppg and 9.9apg.
6 (8) MAVERICKS 12-4
Wins over the Thunder, Spurs and Heat really have the bees buzzing out in Dallas and the Mavericks are now looking like a team that could seriously challenge the Lakers. Early on in the season, minutes at the center position were being split fairly evenly between Chandler and Haywood, (center by committee), but over the last five games, Chandler has clearly emerged as the Mavericks main option at the center position and he has not disappointed. During the Mavericks five wins Chandler averaged 12.2ppg and 10.6rpg in 31.6 minutes per game and I expect this trend to continue even though Haywood may not be in favor of this.
7 (2) HORNETS 12-4
The Hornet’s Chris Paul (CP3) is still one of the leading candidates for the NBA’s MVP Award and his Players Efficiency Rating (PER) of 27.1 is one of the best in the league, but the Hornets have loss three out of their last four since starting the season 11-1. I didn’t think they were as good as their 11-1 start, but one thing is certain and that is CP3 has emerged to reclaim his spot as the best point guard in the nba with Deron Williams sliding down to number 2.
8 (10) HAWKS 8-5
After losing three straight, the Hawks took advantage of three sub .500 teams to reel of three straight wins to move up in the rankings. Unless they make a trade, I expect the Hawks to wins 53 games or less this season and finish behind the Celtics, Magic, Bulls and Heat because I simply don’t see them as a team with any upside.
9 (6) THUNDER 11-6
I think the Oklahoma City Thunder came into the season with so much expectation with Durant and Westbrook being emotionally drained from the World Championships. It’s fair to say they have adjusted and are currently ranked accordingly. I expect them to finish with around 52 wins, but I don’t think that will be enough to earn Kevin Durant the NBA’s MVP Award.
10 (13) NUGGETS 10-6
The Nuggets to me is the Western Conference version of the Atlanta Hawk. They can beat any team on any given night, but they have no upside. Is Carmelo going to be traded? Is Chauncey going to be traded? Will the Nuggets head coach George Karl’s health force him to resign? There are just too many uncertainties with this team, but their four straight wins were enough to earn them the tenth ranking entering week six.
11 (11) BULLS 9-6
Derrick Rose is an absolute beast! He is averaging 26.6ppg to go with 8.2apg and the Bulls are still without Carlos Boozer. Just for kicks, the Bulls starting lineup could have been Derrick Rose, Luol Deng, Lebron James, Carlos Boozer and Joakim Noah. I think if you ask 100 people that really know basketball including Miami fans, eighty percent of them would agree that that lineup is better than anything Miami has. Chicago would have been his best destination if winning was really Lebron’s number one priority.
12 (10) HEAT 9-8
Yes, after 17 games the Miami Heat are not even in the nba’s top ten ranking. I think Tracy McGrady’s comment was the absolute best. Ray Allen is a pure shooter so he compliments Paul Pierce’s game perfectly. Lebron and Wade are hybrids of each other so unless they are involved in the same play ala, the (pick and roll) they are virtually not a good fit. You add that to Miami’s methodical offense and you will have the answer for exactly why the Heat are 9-8, how disappointing!
13 (18) PACERS 8-7
The Pacers may have alternated wins as indicative of their 8-7 record, but the last win over the defending champs in Los Angeles may have been their finest moment next to blowing out the Miami Heat this season. The Pacers are sharing the ball and are playoff bound after 15 games into the season.
14 (14) KNICKS 9-9
Defensively the Knicks are atrocious, third worse to be exact with the 107.2ppg they allow their opponents to score, but on offense they can score in bunches. Unlike some of the other terrible defensive teams in the league the Knicks have one ace up their sleeves named Amare Stoudamire. The Knicks may not be able to stop anyone, but in close games they can count on Amare to provide the offense down the stretch.
15 (12) TRAIL BLAZERS 8-8
The Blazers entered the season with so much promise, but injuries to Brandon Roy has really hampered their chances. Roy’s recent return confirms what we all know and that is he is a true warrior, but his complain about feeling a bone on bone sensation in his knee tells me he might need surgery. The Blazers three game losing streak is not a big concern to me. The real issue is whether Roy will eventually need surgery or if he is back to stay and if he is back, how effective will he be?
16 (16) SUNS 8-9
The Suns hope of making the playoffs depends on Brandon Roy’s injury status and whether the Warriors as a team can remain healthy. All things being equal, I wouldn’t bet against the Suns because they do have the nba’s former two time MVP Steve Nash.
17 (15) WARRIORS 8-9
The Warriors could not have been happier to see their all-star forward David Lee return. Lee was obviously rusty but his presence helped the Warriors snap a five game losing skid. The Warriors are 6-3 with Lee in the lineup and 2-6 without him. The Warriors have a good chance of making the playoffs if they can stay healthy as a team.
18 (19) CAVALIERS 7-9
The Cavaliers are currently hanging on to the 8th seed in the East as they prepare for Lebron’s first game back to Cleveland since the ‘decision.’ There is no question the Cavaliers misses their former star and vice versa, but they are the ones who should be feeling good right about now. Like a said earlier, making the playoffs should be the Cavaliers only realistic goal for the season and it will be a successful one if they do.
19 (23) GRIZZLIES 7-10
After their win over the Heat to snap a five game skid, the Grizzlies continued to take a turn in the right direction by going 2-1 in week 5. Rudy Gay number’s dropped significantly over the last five games, but Z-Bo’s return has had a lot to do with it and the Grizzlies are winning so I guess it’s for the better.
20 (22) BUCKS 6-10
It doesn’t take a scientist to figure out what the Bucks need because they are at the end of two extremes in the league. They are last in scoring at 91.4 points a game and first in defense allowing their opponents an nba’s best of 91.9 points a game. It’s fair to say that if the Bucks picked up their scoring they would be a very good team.
21 (21) RAPTORS 5-11
I believe the Raptors have finally adjusted to the loss of Chris Bosh and they may even make the playoffs in the East, how ironic would that be considering they couldn’t make it with Bosh last season. I think they are on the right track and even though they lost their last two games, those losses were to the Celtics and the Hawks.
22 (17) BOBCATS 6-11
The Bobcats were on the right track before back to back losses to the Knicks. Like the Bucks, the Bobcats have a problem scoring, which has been their Achilles heel for some time. Despite that they are only 1.5 games out of the eighth and final spot in the East.
23 (28) NETS 6-11
With six wins, the Nets have already won half of their total games from last season’s 12 wins. I expect them to win 25 to 30 games this season, but in order to move past that, their starting center Brook Lopez will have to become a double digit rebounder. He is currently averaging 6.2rpg and that is just not enough.
24 (20) PISTONS 6-11
Ben Wallace is leading the Pistons with 7.7 rebounds, .09 steals and 1.1 blocks per game. During the Pistons championship run in 2004, Wallace averaged almost twice as much in each category with around 3 blocks per game. The reason I bring that up is because the Pistons are a distant memory of the defensive team they used to be. Offensively they are just as bad, which is why they are ranked 24th entering week 6.
25 (26) ROCKETS 5-11
The Rockets are 6th in points at 104.4, 6th in rebounding at 43.7 and 5th in assist at 23.4 so by all standards they are a very good offensive team and they play very unselfish. The problem is they are 27th in the league in opponent points allowing 106.7 per game. I am not sure the Rockets will make the playoffs, but if Yao and Aaron Brooks are healthy they could definitely be a playoff team.
26 (24) WIZARDS 5-10
The Washington Wizards are in rebuilding mold and Gilbert Arenas is not a part of that. Yes he will put up big numbers, but I feel he is taken shots away from the Wizards other players especially rookie sensation John Wall. I will go on record to say Gilbert Arenas is the number one reason John Wall will lose out to the Clippers Blake Griffin for the ROY Award. In the Wizards defense, they may be stuck with Arenas, because it will be very difficult finding a team willing to take on Arenas 4 year/ $80 million contract.
27 (29) 76ERS 4-13
The Sixers are one of the worse teams in the league, but every time you watch them it seems like they are a lot better than their record. Doug Collins needs to play Evan Turner more, because let’s face it, who else do the Sixers have? I am not sure they can turn their season around, but it wouldn’t surprise me if they do.
28 (27) TIMBERWOVLES 4-13
I guess the recurring theme in Sota is how great Kevin Love is playing, leading the league in rebounds among other things. However, the player I am most impress with is Darko Milicic, the second overall pick from 2004, the draft that had Lebron, Bosh, Wade and Carmelo Anthony. Milicic leads the league in blocks and that doesn’t surprise me because he has always been a good shot blocker. However, I’ve been very impressed with Darko’s offense especially over the last five games in which he’s averaging 17.2ppg and 7.2rpg. I think the Timberwolves could be a very good team in a few years.
29 (25) KINGS 4-11
The Kings are still starting Dalembert at the center position, but they are playing DeMarcus Cousins more which still isn’t helping their cause. If they are willing to play Cousins more, then I don’t see the harm in starting him. Head coach Paul Westphal is just not getting it done or, the Sacramento Kings are not that good. Either way, the coach is usually the one used as the scapegoat which is why I believe Westphal job may be in jeopardy.
30 (30) CLIPPERS 3-15
The Los Angeles Clippers are one of the most exciting teams to watch thanks to leading ROY candidate Blake Griffin who is an absolute beast. Griffin is averaging 20.2ppg and 11.6rpg but the Clippers can’t seem to be converting his numbers into wins. There are two reasons for this. First would be the injuries to Baron Davis and Chris Kaman, who are both out. The second is probably not noticeable at all and that’s because of his 24.3ppg average. Eric Gordon is having an excellent season, but he is only making 20 percent of his 3 point attempts. The problem with that is he is attempting five 3s a game and that is a duplicate of Baron Davis and a recipe for failure.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
NBA WIZARD 2010-11 NBA POWER RANKING WEEK 5
RK (LW) TEAM REC
1 (3) Spurs 11-1
Before the season began, I predicted that the Spurs would make one last run with Tim Duncan and challenge the Lakers in the West and through 12 games they have the best record in the nba at 11-1. Tim Duncan offensive skills have clearly diminished as evident in his career low 13.7ppg output this season, but Ginobili, Parker and Jefferson have more than picked up for that loss by averaging 55.4ppg combined.
2 (1) Hornets 11-1
Chris Paul’s 16.8ppg this season may be below his career average of 19.2ppg, but he has clearly reemerged as the best point guard in the nba. He is the engine that has the Hornets clicking on all cylinders. Defensively, they are allowing their opponents only 90.4, which is second in the league and I expect them to remain stingy on the defensive end for the rest of the season. Trading for Jarrett Jack gives them a solid backup for CP3, which will help preserve him and keep in fresh for the playoffs.
3 (4) Lakers 12-2
The defending champs are the most efficient offensive team in the league and they owe that primarily to their formidable trio of Kobe, Gasol and Odom. They are averaging 63ppg, 29rpg and 12.8apg making them the nba’s most dominant trio. If Andrew Bynum, the Lakers starting center can stay healthy when he returns, the Lakers might just be in route to give their legendary coach Phil Jackson his fourth 3-peat in 20 years.
4 (8) Magic 9-3
Over the last few seasons, the Magic have been one of the nba’s most prolific offensive team, but in their first 12 games this season, they are only averaging 97.8ppg. They have put a major emphasis on the defensive end, which has helped make up for their offensive decline. They currently lead the league in opponent points allowed at 90.3ppg.
5 (2) Celtics 9-4
The Celtics starting point guard Rondo sat out against the Raptors, due to a hamstring injury he suffered against the Thunder. He might sit out on Monday against Hawks, but I expect him to be in the Celtics lineup shortly after that. He is obviously the heart and soul of the Celtics and without him, they go from being a great team to simply a good team as evident in their 102-101 loss to the Raptors.
6 (14) Thunder 9-4
In only 13 games this season, Russell Westbrook has proven that he is the MVP of his team and is currently one of the nba’s top 5 point guards. Westbrook was so dominant in the Thunder 89-84 win in Boston that he caused Rondo, the nba’s self proclaimed best point guard to pull his hamstring. The Thunder were also able to squeeze out another win, an 82-81 defeat over the Bucks in Milwaukee. The Thunder won both games on the road without Kevin Durant, the nba’s leading scorer, which further proves my point that Westbrook is their true MVP.
7 (5) Heat 8-5
Mike Miller, the Heat sharp shooting guard/forward has been out for the entire season due to a hand injury he suffered in the preseason. Haslem, the player everyone considers to be the heart and soul of the Miami Heat tore a ligament in his big toe against the Memphis Grizzlies and is expected to be out for a while. Dwyane Wade missed the game against Memphis, but is expected to return on Wednesday against the Magic. I think you get the point. The Heat may have chemistry issues, but the real issue stems from the fact that they are an injury depleted team which means players like Lebron and most definitely Bosh, now that Haslem is out, must step up.
8 (7) Mavericks 8-4
The Mavericks made up for losses against the Hornets and the Bulls by ending their week with a win against the stumbling Hawks. Defensively, the Mavs have become a much better team, but I still believe they are one solid offensive player away from contending with the Spurs and the Lakers.
9 (6) Jazz 9-5
After winning 5 straight games by overcoming double digit deficits in each of them, the Jazz finally returned back to earth with a subpar 1-2 week. I was very critically of the Jazz during their 5 games winning streak because I didn’t think constantly having to make up double digits deficit was a good recipe for success. Last week 1-2 record proves that point, but I expect them to be very competitive throughout the season and eventually make the playoffs.
10 (9) Hawks 8-5
The Hawks started the season winning six straight games, at which time I didn’t think they were as good as their 6-0 record. They followed that by losing four straight, which also was not a good indication of them as a team. They followed that by going 2-1 a .667 winning percentage, which is where I expect to see the Hawks hover for most of the season.
11 (10) Bulls 7-4
Since starting the season 2-3, the Bulls have won 5 of their last 6 games to give them a 7-4 record and they have done this without Carlos Boozer, their newly acquired all-star power forward who has been out for the entire season due to a hand injury. Their star point guard Derrick Rose has been a force and is the main reason why the Bulls are in the position they are in. Rose is averaging 25.2ppg and 8.2apg in 13 games this season and is currently one of the leading candidates for the nba’s MVP Award, something I didn’t think I would be associating Derrick Rose name with for a while.
12 (16) Trail Blazers 8-6
The Blazers received an expected bad news that center Greg Oden would be have a season ending surgery, for a second straight season. I am sure the Blazers have adjusted to not having Oden in their lineup, but losing Brandon Roy has Portland really concern. Without Roy, the Blazers won two straight thanks in part to Wesley Matthew’s 25 points average in their two wins, but in the long run the Blazers will not survive without Roy in the mix.
13 (11) Nuggets 7-6
Other than a 2 game winning streak, the Nuggets have pretty much alternated wins and losses this season leading to their 7-6 record. They are currently tied with Golden State for the eighth seed in the West, which is where I expect them to hover and barely make the playoffs if they end up not trading Carmelo Anthony, something I think they must do in order to move on.
14 (25) Knicks 6-8
Like I said, anything is possible in the East where the Knicks were able to move up to the seventh seed just by winning three straight. For the first time this season, Danilo Gallinari seem to have put the trade rumors of him for Carmelo in the back burner, because during the Knicks 3 game winning streak he averaged a whopping 27ppg, making 47 percent of his shots from the field with 44.4 percent from 3s. I don’t expect him to continue at that pace, but the Knicks sure benefitted from his performance. Amare wasn’t too shabby either. He averaged 30.7ppg and 10.7rpg on 55 percent shooting during the Knicks 3 game winning streak.
15 (13) Warriors 7-6
The Warriors have really struggled during the last 5 games without forward David Lee, who has been out since November 10th because of an elbow surgery. Before Lee’s injury, the Warriors were 6-2, since the injury, the Warriors are 1-5. He has clearly been missed and hopefully he can return soon because the Warriors are sinking faster than a ship without him.
16 (12) Suns 6-7
At best, the Suns are barely a playoff team with Nash, without him they are definitely lottery bound. Nash missed the last two games due to a groin injury and to no surprise the Suns lose by a combined 34 points. He is expected back Monday against the Rockets.
17 (21) Bobcats 5-8
The Bobcats are 4-2 after starting the season 1-6. Stephen Jackson recorded the Bobcats first triple double by posting 24 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assist in a 123-105 victory over the Suns. The Cats are clearly playing better over their last six games. Their two losses included a one point loss to the Jazz 96-95 and an eight point loss to the Heat, a game in which they overcame an 18 point deficit but eventually ended up losing.
18 (17) Pacers 5-6
Starting point guard Darren Collison was out the last three games due an ankle injury and was replaced in the lineup by T.J. Ford. The Pacers finished the week 1-2, but even with a 5-6 record are still the 6th seed in the East. Collison should return back to the starting lineup soon to help his team battle for a playoff spot.
19 (18) Cavaliers 5-7
The Cavaliers have adjusted to life without Lebron and expectations are far less in Cleveland as a result of that. Making the playoffs seems to be the Cavaliers immediate goal and if the season ended today, they would be seeded with the eighth and final spot in the East.
20 (20) Pistons 5-8
The Pistons have a 3-2 record over their last games. Two of their wins were in overtime against the Clippers and Wizard, games that they should win but they struggled to get. The positive from that is, the Pistons pulled together and won two games down the stretch. The negative to that is, the Pistons could have easily loss those games and finish with a 1-4 record over their last 5 games, but they were fortunate to beat two of the worst teams in the league.
21 (27) Toronto 5-9
The Raptors are sporting a three game winning streak thanks to starting center Andrea Bargnani. During the winning streak, Bargnani averaged 28.33ppg while making a whopping 58 percent of his shots. The Raptors bolstered their Euro team appearance recently by trading Jarrett Jack to the Hornets for Peja Stojakovic.
22 (15) Bucks 5-8
A three game winning streak followed by a three game losing streak, concluded the Bucks last six games. In fairness to them, one of losses was against the Lakers with the other being an 82-81 loss to the Thunder. Despite that, the Bucks head coach Scott Skiles cannot be happy with him team’s early season inconsistency.
23 (23) Grizzlies 5-9
Thanks to a miraculous fade-away shot by Rudy Gay over the Heat Lebron James, the Grizzlies were able to end their 5 games losing streak. Rudy Gay probably won the early season award for trash talking after making the shot by turning to the Heat bench to let them have it. Personally, I didn’t see the point of his disrespect, considering his team’s 5-9 record, but I guess he deserve to celebrate after hitting the nba’s first true buzzer-beater of the season.
24 (28) Wizard 4-8
I wouldn’t say Gilbert Arenas is back, but I will say he has been very assertive over the last 5 games for the Wizards. During that stretch, Arenas is averaging 20.4ppg and 6.2apg and has shown signs of his old self. The reality is, rookie sensation John Wall has been out for the Wizards last four games nursing an injured ankle. Once he returns, Arenas will have to take a back seat to Wall who is the future of the team. Then again, maybe Arenas, Wall and Hinrich might give the Wizards a formidable three guard rotation.
25 (26) Kings 4-8
The Kings have gone from looking like a very promising team when they started the season 3-2 with rookie DeMarcus Cousins starting as center, to a 1-6 record with him coming off the bench. Obviously he has not adjusted to coming off the bench and with a 1-6 record it’s hard to argue that the Kings made the right decision by inserting Samuel Dalembert in the starting lineup over Cousins. I think the Kings drafted Cousins to be their center of the future, but with their 4-8 record, there’s no reason he should be coming off the bench.
26 (19) Rockets 3-9
There’s no question the Rockets are leading candidate for Most Disappointing Team in the nba early on in the season, but I have to give them a little pass because of injuries to Yao and Brooks. The Rockets starting center and point guard have played in only five games each this season. We will be able to determine if this Rockets team is playoff bound or lottery bound once they both return in a few weeks.
27 (22) Timberwolves 4-10
The Wolves clearly have one of the best forward tandems in the league in Beasley and Love. They combined to average 40ppg and 19.5rpg, but outside of that, the Wolves do not have any other player averaging double figures. I think their future looks bright and they could probably be a playoff team come next season when they add another high draft pick and their European point guard sensation finally joins the team.
28 (24) Nets 4-9
It was almost a certainty that the Nets had to improve after posting the worst record in the nba of 12-70 last season. However, even though they may be on track to win 25 games this season, I think Avery Johnson dictator coaching style is not suited for this team. He has to tone his antics down because this team is a very young team and simply not that good.
29 (20) 76ers 3-10
After practicing with the team on Sunday, Andre Iguodala appears set to return. However, I am not sure his return makes the Sixers a better team. I think the Sixers should seriously consider moving Igoudala because I don’t see them making the playoffs with or without him in the lineup.
30 (28) Clippers 1-13
Blake Griffin continues to be a monster and he showed that against the Knicks by scoring a career high 44 points to go along with 15 rebounds. For the season Griffin is averaging 18.5ppg and 10.9rpg and his counterpart guard Eric Gordon is averaging 23.3ppg, but he Clips are without their starting point guard Baron Davis and Chris Kaman, their starting center. Well, it’s fair to say that the Clippers are not going to make the playoffs, but rookie Blake Griffin will eventually win the ROY Award to give the Clips their only positive news of this nba season.
1 (3) Spurs 11-1
Before the season began, I predicted that the Spurs would make one last run with Tim Duncan and challenge the Lakers in the West and through 12 games they have the best record in the nba at 11-1. Tim Duncan offensive skills have clearly diminished as evident in his career low 13.7ppg output this season, but Ginobili, Parker and Jefferson have more than picked up for that loss by averaging 55.4ppg combined.
2 (1) Hornets 11-1
Chris Paul’s 16.8ppg this season may be below his career average of 19.2ppg, but he has clearly reemerged as the best point guard in the nba. He is the engine that has the Hornets clicking on all cylinders. Defensively, they are allowing their opponents only 90.4, which is second in the league and I expect them to remain stingy on the defensive end for the rest of the season. Trading for Jarrett Jack gives them a solid backup for CP3, which will help preserve him and keep in fresh for the playoffs.
3 (4) Lakers 12-2
The defending champs are the most efficient offensive team in the league and they owe that primarily to their formidable trio of Kobe, Gasol and Odom. They are averaging 63ppg, 29rpg and 12.8apg making them the nba’s most dominant trio. If Andrew Bynum, the Lakers starting center can stay healthy when he returns, the Lakers might just be in route to give their legendary coach Phil Jackson his fourth 3-peat in 20 years.
4 (8) Magic 9-3
Over the last few seasons, the Magic have been one of the nba’s most prolific offensive team, but in their first 12 games this season, they are only averaging 97.8ppg. They have put a major emphasis on the defensive end, which has helped make up for their offensive decline. They currently lead the league in opponent points allowed at 90.3ppg.
5 (2) Celtics 9-4
The Celtics starting point guard Rondo sat out against the Raptors, due to a hamstring injury he suffered against the Thunder. He might sit out on Monday against Hawks, but I expect him to be in the Celtics lineup shortly after that. He is obviously the heart and soul of the Celtics and without him, they go from being a great team to simply a good team as evident in their 102-101 loss to the Raptors.
6 (14) Thunder 9-4
In only 13 games this season, Russell Westbrook has proven that he is the MVP of his team and is currently one of the nba’s top 5 point guards. Westbrook was so dominant in the Thunder 89-84 win in Boston that he caused Rondo, the nba’s self proclaimed best point guard to pull his hamstring. The Thunder were also able to squeeze out another win, an 82-81 defeat over the Bucks in Milwaukee. The Thunder won both games on the road without Kevin Durant, the nba’s leading scorer, which further proves my point that Westbrook is their true MVP.
7 (5) Heat 8-5
Mike Miller, the Heat sharp shooting guard/forward has been out for the entire season due to a hand injury he suffered in the preseason. Haslem, the player everyone considers to be the heart and soul of the Miami Heat tore a ligament in his big toe against the Memphis Grizzlies and is expected to be out for a while. Dwyane Wade missed the game against Memphis, but is expected to return on Wednesday against the Magic. I think you get the point. The Heat may have chemistry issues, but the real issue stems from the fact that they are an injury depleted team which means players like Lebron and most definitely Bosh, now that Haslem is out, must step up.
8 (7) Mavericks 8-4
The Mavericks made up for losses against the Hornets and the Bulls by ending their week with a win against the stumbling Hawks. Defensively, the Mavs have become a much better team, but I still believe they are one solid offensive player away from contending with the Spurs and the Lakers.
9 (6) Jazz 9-5
After winning 5 straight games by overcoming double digit deficits in each of them, the Jazz finally returned back to earth with a subpar 1-2 week. I was very critically of the Jazz during their 5 games winning streak because I didn’t think constantly having to make up double digits deficit was a good recipe for success. Last week 1-2 record proves that point, but I expect them to be very competitive throughout the season and eventually make the playoffs.
10 (9) Hawks 8-5
The Hawks started the season winning six straight games, at which time I didn’t think they were as good as their 6-0 record. They followed that by losing four straight, which also was not a good indication of them as a team. They followed that by going 2-1 a .667 winning percentage, which is where I expect to see the Hawks hover for most of the season.
11 (10) Bulls 7-4
Since starting the season 2-3, the Bulls have won 5 of their last 6 games to give them a 7-4 record and they have done this without Carlos Boozer, their newly acquired all-star power forward who has been out for the entire season due to a hand injury. Their star point guard Derrick Rose has been a force and is the main reason why the Bulls are in the position they are in. Rose is averaging 25.2ppg and 8.2apg in 13 games this season and is currently one of the leading candidates for the nba’s MVP Award, something I didn’t think I would be associating Derrick Rose name with for a while.
12 (16) Trail Blazers 8-6
The Blazers received an expected bad news that center Greg Oden would be have a season ending surgery, for a second straight season. I am sure the Blazers have adjusted to not having Oden in their lineup, but losing Brandon Roy has Portland really concern. Without Roy, the Blazers won two straight thanks in part to Wesley Matthew’s 25 points average in their two wins, but in the long run the Blazers will not survive without Roy in the mix.
13 (11) Nuggets 7-6
Other than a 2 game winning streak, the Nuggets have pretty much alternated wins and losses this season leading to their 7-6 record. They are currently tied with Golden State for the eighth seed in the West, which is where I expect them to hover and barely make the playoffs if they end up not trading Carmelo Anthony, something I think they must do in order to move on.
14 (25) Knicks 6-8
Like I said, anything is possible in the East where the Knicks were able to move up to the seventh seed just by winning three straight. For the first time this season, Danilo Gallinari seem to have put the trade rumors of him for Carmelo in the back burner, because during the Knicks 3 game winning streak he averaged a whopping 27ppg, making 47 percent of his shots from the field with 44.4 percent from 3s. I don’t expect him to continue at that pace, but the Knicks sure benefitted from his performance. Amare wasn’t too shabby either. He averaged 30.7ppg and 10.7rpg on 55 percent shooting during the Knicks 3 game winning streak.
15 (13) Warriors 7-6
The Warriors have really struggled during the last 5 games without forward David Lee, who has been out since November 10th because of an elbow surgery. Before Lee’s injury, the Warriors were 6-2, since the injury, the Warriors are 1-5. He has clearly been missed and hopefully he can return soon because the Warriors are sinking faster than a ship without him.
16 (12) Suns 6-7
At best, the Suns are barely a playoff team with Nash, without him they are definitely lottery bound. Nash missed the last two games due to a groin injury and to no surprise the Suns lose by a combined 34 points. He is expected back Monday against the Rockets.
17 (21) Bobcats 5-8
The Bobcats are 4-2 after starting the season 1-6. Stephen Jackson recorded the Bobcats first triple double by posting 24 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assist in a 123-105 victory over the Suns. The Cats are clearly playing better over their last six games. Their two losses included a one point loss to the Jazz 96-95 and an eight point loss to the Heat, a game in which they overcame an 18 point deficit but eventually ended up losing.
18 (17) Pacers 5-6
Starting point guard Darren Collison was out the last three games due an ankle injury and was replaced in the lineup by T.J. Ford. The Pacers finished the week 1-2, but even with a 5-6 record are still the 6th seed in the East. Collison should return back to the starting lineup soon to help his team battle for a playoff spot.
19 (18) Cavaliers 5-7
The Cavaliers have adjusted to life without Lebron and expectations are far less in Cleveland as a result of that. Making the playoffs seems to be the Cavaliers immediate goal and if the season ended today, they would be seeded with the eighth and final spot in the East.
20 (20) Pistons 5-8
The Pistons have a 3-2 record over their last games. Two of their wins were in overtime against the Clippers and Wizard, games that they should win but they struggled to get. The positive from that is, the Pistons pulled together and won two games down the stretch. The negative to that is, the Pistons could have easily loss those games and finish with a 1-4 record over their last 5 games, but they were fortunate to beat two of the worst teams in the league.
21 (27) Toronto 5-9
The Raptors are sporting a three game winning streak thanks to starting center Andrea Bargnani. During the winning streak, Bargnani averaged 28.33ppg while making a whopping 58 percent of his shots. The Raptors bolstered their Euro team appearance recently by trading Jarrett Jack to the Hornets for Peja Stojakovic.
22 (15) Bucks 5-8
A three game winning streak followed by a three game losing streak, concluded the Bucks last six games. In fairness to them, one of losses was against the Lakers with the other being an 82-81 loss to the Thunder. Despite that, the Bucks head coach Scott Skiles cannot be happy with him team’s early season inconsistency.
23 (23) Grizzlies 5-9
Thanks to a miraculous fade-away shot by Rudy Gay over the Heat Lebron James, the Grizzlies were able to end their 5 games losing streak. Rudy Gay probably won the early season award for trash talking after making the shot by turning to the Heat bench to let them have it. Personally, I didn’t see the point of his disrespect, considering his team’s 5-9 record, but I guess he deserve to celebrate after hitting the nba’s first true buzzer-beater of the season.
24 (28) Wizard 4-8
I wouldn’t say Gilbert Arenas is back, but I will say he has been very assertive over the last 5 games for the Wizards. During that stretch, Arenas is averaging 20.4ppg and 6.2apg and has shown signs of his old self. The reality is, rookie sensation John Wall has been out for the Wizards last four games nursing an injured ankle. Once he returns, Arenas will have to take a back seat to Wall who is the future of the team. Then again, maybe Arenas, Wall and Hinrich might give the Wizards a formidable three guard rotation.
25 (26) Kings 4-8
The Kings have gone from looking like a very promising team when they started the season 3-2 with rookie DeMarcus Cousins starting as center, to a 1-6 record with him coming off the bench. Obviously he has not adjusted to coming off the bench and with a 1-6 record it’s hard to argue that the Kings made the right decision by inserting Samuel Dalembert in the starting lineup over Cousins. I think the Kings drafted Cousins to be their center of the future, but with their 4-8 record, there’s no reason he should be coming off the bench.
26 (19) Rockets 3-9
There’s no question the Rockets are leading candidate for Most Disappointing Team in the nba early on in the season, but I have to give them a little pass because of injuries to Yao and Brooks. The Rockets starting center and point guard have played in only five games each this season. We will be able to determine if this Rockets team is playoff bound or lottery bound once they both return in a few weeks.
27 (22) Timberwolves 4-10
The Wolves clearly have one of the best forward tandems in the league in Beasley and Love. They combined to average 40ppg and 19.5rpg, but outside of that, the Wolves do not have any other player averaging double figures. I think their future looks bright and they could probably be a playoff team come next season when they add another high draft pick and their European point guard sensation finally joins the team.
28 (24) Nets 4-9
It was almost a certainty that the Nets had to improve after posting the worst record in the nba of 12-70 last season. However, even though they may be on track to win 25 games this season, I think Avery Johnson dictator coaching style is not suited for this team. He has to tone his antics down because this team is a very young team and simply not that good.
29 (20) 76ers 3-10
After practicing with the team on Sunday, Andre Iguodala appears set to return. However, I am not sure his return makes the Sixers a better team. I think the Sixers should seriously consider moving Igoudala because I don’t see them making the playoffs with or without him in the lineup.
30 (28) Clippers 1-13
Blake Griffin continues to be a monster and he showed that against the Knicks by scoring a career high 44 points to go along with 15 rebounds. For the season Griffin is averaging 18.5ppg and 10.9rpg and his counterpart guard Eric Gordon is averaging 23.3ppg, but he Clips are without their starting point guard Baron Davis and Chris Kaman, their starting center. Well, it’s fair to say that the Clippers are not going to make the playoffs, but rookie Blake Griffin will eventually win the ROY Award to give the Clips their only positive news of this nba season.
Monday, November 15, 2010
NBA WIZARD 2010-11 NBA POWER RANKING: WEEK 4
RK (LW) TEAM REC
1 (3) Hornets 8-0
If anyone predicted before the season started that the New Orleans would be the only undefeated team after 3 weeks into the season with an 8-0 record, I would have said they were crazy. I predicted the Hornets would be struggling and that Chris Paul trade rumors would have been intensifying by now, but I was wrong along with just about everyone because the Hornets have the number one ranking heading into week four. Chris Paul is the leading MVP candidate and the Hornets Emeka Okafor has returned from the grave. I don’t know if they can keep this up, but the Hornets could even build on this by packaging Peja’s $14 million expiring contract for Carmelo Anthony. Now that would be a twist!
2 (2) Celtics 8-2
The Boston Celtics are clearly the best team in the East and they showed that when they took their talents to South Beach with a convincing spanking of the Miami Heat. Their 102-97 win was not indicative of their true dominance, because they dominated the entire game leaving the Heat in complete dismay.
3 (7) Spurs 8-1
Well no surprise here. I said before the season started that the Spurs would be the team that would challenge the Lakers, so it doesn’t surprise me to see them with an 8-1 record. I actually expect them to finish with one of the top two seeds in the West and make one last run with Tim Duncan for the championship.
4 (1) Lakers 8-2
I know the Lak show lost two straight, but please let’s not panic. Denver played well and Phoenix needed a record 22 3pointers to win. The Lakers will bounce back from this and I can assure you they will be there in the end when it counts.
5 (4) Heat 6-4
What’s going on with the Miami Heat is the question everyone seems to be asking these days? First of all, they need to do something about their point guard situation because Lebron needs to be a finisher and not a point guard. Secondly, they need to speed up the offense. Third, they need to get Chris Bosh more involved on offense so that he can start feeling good because he is being killed defensively. Finally, Pat Riley needs to be the coach of this team, because he assembled this squad and know exactly how to deal with egos.
6 (12) Jazz 7-3
It’s far to say that the Jazz have made up for the lack of excitement that the Miami Heat should have brought so far this season. In their last five wins, they’ve come back from double digit deficits, which is a very impressive feat considering their last four wins were all on the road. Four of their last five wins however, have been by a combined 9 points. That tells me that the Jazz have been very fortunate and they cannot expect this trend to continue.
7 (10) Mavericks 6-2
I keep asking myself, are the Mavericks for real? And the more I watch them, the more I think they might be. Their center by committee of Tyson Chandler and Brandon Haywood seem to be getting the job done on the defensive end, while Dirk, Jason and Caron carry the load offensively.
8 (5) Magic 6-3
Just when you think Orlando has it figured out, they go ahead and lose to Toronto, one of the worse teams in the league. In their defense, all-star point guard Jameer Nelson has been injured but that doesn’t explain why Dwight Howard, the nba’s leading rebounder over the last several seasons is only averaging 10.6rpg. I know they are trying to stay under the radar, but for now they are clearly the third best team in the East behind the Celtics and Heat.
9 (6) Hawks 7-4
After storming out of the gate with six straight wins, the Hawks have since lost four out of their last five games. I didn’t think they were a dominant team when they were 6-0, but I certainly didn’t think they would lose four straight. I expect them to bounce back, but like I said before the season, I don’t think they have much upside as a team.
10 (16) Bulls 5-3
The Bulls are sixth in points at 105 per game, fourth in rebounds at 44.5 and fourth in assist at 23.8 and they are doing this without Carlos Boozer, who is out with a hand injury. When he returns, the Bulls could be a very scary team. I think they have a lot of upside as a team.
11 (8) Nuggets 5-4
Just when you think the Nuggets are in total disarray after their 144-113 loss to the Indiana Pacers, they surprise you by giving the Lakers their first defeat in a 118-112 loss. Don’t be surprised by this, because this is what I expect from the Nuggets this entire season, great on some night and terrible on others.
12 (14) Suns 5-4
No one knows exactly what direction the Suns will take this season. Will Steve Nash divorce from his wife cause him to lose interest? Will the Suns organization just settle for making the playoffs only to lose in the first round or, will they trade Nash to a contender? The Suns will make the playoffs if they stay pat, but I don’t see them as a team with any upside.
13 (11) Warriors 6-4
The Warriors are currently sporting a two game losing streak, but before you jump all over them, note that their last five games have been on the road. I expect them to get on track once they return to Oakland.
14 (13) Thunder 5-4
Sixty-six percent of the General Managers in the nba predicted that Kevin Durant would win the MVP Award this season, but so far, Durant is not even the mvp on his own team. That title belongs to Russell Westbrook, who has clearly emerged as one of the top point guards in the league. Westbrook is currently averaging 23.7ppg and 7.8apg.
15 (23) Bucks 5-5
The Bucks are currently the nba’s best defensive team and are allowing their opponent only 89.4 points per game. Their offense is still behind, but their defense helped them win their last three straight games to give them a 5-5 overall record. Their offense must improve if they expect to move up.
16 (9) Trail Blazers 6-5
The Blazers was supposed to be one of the teams that would challenge the Lakers in the West, but if the season ended today, they wouldn’t even be in the playoffs. The Blazer success begins and ends with their all-star shooting guard Brandon Roy, but he has been inconsistent early on in the season. Roy is only averaging 18.1ppg and scored less than ten points in two of his last five games. Roy made only 1 of 7 shots for two points in the Blazers last game, a 107-87 loss to New Orleans. I don’t know if he’s injured or simply playing too many minutes like he alluded to a week ago, but the Blazers cannot succeed without Roy leading the way.
17 (21) Pacers 4-4
If the season ended today, the Pacers would have the seventh seed in the East with their 4-4 record. I don’t expect them to make the playoffs, but in the East anything is possible. I expect them to battle the Cavs, Knicks and Pistons for the last two playoffs spots in the East.
18 (17) Cavaliers 4-5
The Cavaliers have a good chance of making the playoffs in the East, because I think once the Heat picks up the pace, the eighth seed in the East will only need 38 wins to make the playoffs. The Cavs still have the $14 million trade chip they got from trading James to the Heat, so if they look promising come February, I expect them to pull the trigger on a trade that will help them get over the hump.
19 (24) Rockets 3-6
I still believe the Rockets are the most dangerous sub .500 team in the league, because they can score with the best teams. Once their defense picks up, which will depend on if they can get consistent contribution from Yao, I expect them to be a force to reckon with. But that is a big if, because I’m not sure Yao injury prone foot will be able to hold up for the entire season.
20 (22) Pistons 4-6
After starting the season 0-5, the Pistons have gone on to win 4 of their last 5 games. I am almost certain the Pistons will make a blockbuster trade before the deadline in February, which is why I expect them to make the playoffs. I expect either Rip Hamilton or Tayshaun Prince to get traded and it wouldn’t surprise me if both of them are traded.
21 (26) Bobcats 3-7
The Bobcats almost would have won their last three games had it not been for a 96-95 loss to the Jazz, a game in which they led by 15 points. I think the Bobcats are about to make a turn in the right direction and seriously contend for the eighth spot in the East. It wouldn’t surprise me if they traded Stephen Jackson before the deadline, because he and coach Brown don’t seem to be on the same page.
22 (29) Timberwolves 3-8
The Timberwolves Kevin Love was a man possessed when he posted 31 points and 31 rebounds against the Knicks. It was the first time in 28 years that one player had gotten over 30 points and 30 rebounds in a game in the nba. The last person to do that was Moses Malone. His performance helped give the Wolves a brief two game winning streak, which is the only highlight of what has been a dismal season so far.
23 (15) Grizzlies 4-6
The Grizzlies 116-110 overtime loss against the Celtics led to a 1-2 week. However, I expect them to bounce back because they have six players averaging double figures led by Rudy Gay’s 25.2ppg. They must improve on the 107.2 points that they are allowing their opponents to score, if they expect to improve.
24 (25) Nets 3-6
The Nets starting center Brook Lopez is averaging 17.3ppg, on a career low 39.9 field goal percentage. He has to play better for the Nets to have a fighting chance. Despite that, the Nets loss by only one point to the Magic 91-90 last week and are definitely a lot better than they were last season.
25 (18) Knicks 3-7
After starting the season 4-2, the Knicks have lose their last four games and not to point the finger, but I think forward Dalino Gallinari is one of the main reasons why. For a player who was expected to have a breakout season this year, he is only averaging 13.2ppg and his 36.7 field goal percent is clearly due to the fact that he expects to get traded any day for Carmelo Anthony. Also, for a team that speeds up their offense, the Knicks should have way more than 19.5 assist per game as a team, which is 23rd overall in the league.
26 (19) Kings 3-6
It hasn’t even been ten games this season and the Sacramento Kings are already dealing with the enigmatic personality of rookie center DeMarcus Cousins, who has been at odds with the coaching staff. Word of advice for the young fellow, Allen Iverson, one of the nba’s most exciting player is playing for a Turkish team because no nba team wants him. One thing about this league, you can have a job one day and be out the next. I am not saying Cousins is on his way out, but if he doesn’t seriously check his attitude he could be out by the time his rookie contract is up in five years and that will be very sad for a player that has so much potential.
27 (30) Raptors 2-8
I know it’s early in the season, but when you can go in Orlando and beat the Magic 110-106, you deserve to be promoted from the worst ranking in the league.
28 (27) Wizards 2-6
Before Gilbert Arenas rejoined the team, the Wizards were 1-2, since rejoining them the Wizards are 1-4 so I guess it’s fair to say he hasn’t made a difference except hinder the growth of rookie sensation John Wall.
29 (20) 76ers 2-8
The Sixers are definitely a team in transition and Andre Iguodala injury hasn’t helped the situation either. I expect the Sixers to make a change and their best trade chip is Iguodala, but the question is who will they trade him for?
30 (28) Clippers 1-9
Blake Griffin is the only bright spot in Clipperland, because with a 1-9 record, everybody should be on the trading block. The Clippers are looking miserable right now and deserves to have the last ranking entering week 4.
1 (3) Hornets 8-0
If anyone predicted before the season started that the New Orleans would be the only undefeated team after 3 weeks into the season with an 8-0 record, I would have said they were crazy. I predicted the Hornets would be struggling and that Chris Paul trade rumors would have been intensifying by now, but I was wrong along with just about everyone because the Hornets have the number one ranking heading into week four. Chris Paul is the leading MVP candidate and the Hornets Emeka Okafor has returned from the grave. I don’t know if they can keep this up, but the Hornets could even build on this by packaging Peja’s $14 million expiring contract for Carmelo Anthony. Now that would be a twist!
2 (2) Celtics 8-2
The Boston Celtics are clearly the best team in the East and they showed that when they took their talents to South Beach with a convincing spanking of the Miami Heat. Their 102-97 win was not indicative of their true dominance, because they dominated the entire game leaving the Heat in complete dismay.
3 (7) Spurs 8-1
Well no surprise here. I said before the season started that the Spurs would be the team that would challenge the Lakers, so it doesn’t surprise me to see them with an 8-1 record. I actually expect them to finish with one of the top two seeds in the West and make one last run with Tim Duncan for the championship.
4 (1) Lakers 8-2
I know the Lak show lost two straight, but please let’s not panic. Denver played well and Phoenix needed a record 22 3pointers to win. The Lakers will bounce back from this and I can assure you they will be there in the end when it counts.
5 (4) Heat 6-4
What’s going on with the Miami Heat is the question everyone seems to be asking these days? First of all, they need to do something about their point guard situation because Lebron needs to be a finisher and not a point guard. Secondly, they need to speed up the offense. Third, they need to get Chris Bosh more involved on offense so that he can start feeling good because he is being killed defensively. Finally, Pat Riley needs to be the coach of this team, because he assembled this squad and know exactly how to deal with egos.
6 (12) Jazz 7-3
It’s far to say that the Jazz have made up for the lack of excitement that the Miami Heat should have brought so far this season. In their last five wins, they’ve come back from double digit deficits, which is a very impressive feat considering their last four wins were all on the road. Four of their last five wins however, have been by a combined 9 points. That tells me that the Jazz have been very fortunate and they cannot expect this trend to continue.
7 (10) Mavericks 6-2
I keep asking myself, are the Mavericks for real? And the more I watch them, the more I think they might be. Their center by committee of Tyson Chandler and Brandon Haywood seem to be getting the job done on the defensive end, while Dirk, Jason and Caron carry the load offensively.
8 (5) Magic 6-3
Just when you think Orlando has it figured out, they go ahead and lose to Toronto, one of the worse teams in the league. In their defense, all-star point guard Jameer Nelson has been injured but that doesn’t explain why Dwight Howard, the nba’s leading rebounder over the last several seasons is only averaging 10.6rpg. I know they are trying to stay under the radar, but for now they are clearly the third best team in the East behind the Celtics and Heat.
9 (6) Hawks 7-4
After storming out of the gate with six straight wins, the Hawks have since lost four out of their last five games. I didn’t think they were a dominant team when they were 6-0, but I certainly didn’t think they would lose four straight. I expect them to bounce back, but like I said before the season, I don’t think they have much upside as a team.
10 (16) Bulls 5-3
The Bulls are sixth in points at 105 per game, fourth in rebounds at 44.5 and fourth in assist at 23.8 and they are doing this without Carlos Boozer, who is out with a hand injury. When he returns, the Bulls could be a very scary team. I think they have a lot of upside as a team.
11 (8) Nuggets 5-4
Just when you think the Nuggets are in total disarray after their 144-113 loss to the Indiana Pacers, they surprise you by giving the Lakers their first defeat in a 118-112 loss. Don’t be surprised by this, because this is what I expect from the Nuggets this entire season, great on some night and terrible on others.
12 (14) Suns 5-4
No one knows exactly what direction the Suns will take this season. Will Steve Nash divorce from his wife cause him to lose interest? Will the Suns organization just settle for making the playoffs only to lose in the first round or, will they trade Nash to a contender? The Suns will make the playoffs if they stay pat, but I don’t see them as a team with any upside.
13 (11) Warriors 6-4
The Warriors are currently sporting a two game losing streak, but before you jump all over them, note that their last five games have been on the road. I expect them to get on track once they return to Oakland.
14 (13) Thunder 5-4
Sixty-six percent of the General Managers in the nba predicted that Kevin Durant would win the MVP Award this season, but so far, Durant is not even the mvp on his own team. That title belongs to Russell Westbrook, who has clearly emerged as one of the top point guards in the league. Westbrook is currently averaging 23.7ppg and 7.8apg.
15 (23) Bucks 5-5
The Bucks are currently the nba’s best defensive team and are allowing their opponent only 89.4 points per game. Their offense is still behind, but their defense helped them win their last three straight games to give them a 5-5 overall record. Their offense must improve if they expect to move up.
16 (9) Trail Blazers 6-5
The Blazers was supposed to be one of the teams that would challenge the Lakers in the West, but if the season ended today, they wouldn’t even be in the playoffs. The Blazer success begins and ends with their all-star shooting guard Brandon Roy, but he has been inconsistent early on in the season. Roy is only averaging 18.1ppg and scored less than ten points in two of his last five games. Roy made only 1 of 7 shots for two points in the Blazers last game, a 107-87 loss to New Orleans. I don’t know if he’s injured or simply playing too many minutes like he alluded to a week ago, but the Blazers cannot succeed without Roy leading the way.
17 (21) Pacers 4-4
If the season ended today, the Pacers would have the seventh seed in the East with their 4-4 record. I don’t expect them to make the playoffs, but in the East anything is possible. I expect them to battle the Cavs, Knicks and Pistons for the last two playoffs spots in the East.
18 (17) Cavaliers 4-5
The Cavaliers have a good chance of making the playoffs in the East, because I think once the Heat picks up the pace, the eighth seed in the East will only need 38 wins to make the playoffs. The Cavs still have the $14 million trade chip they got from trading James to the Heat, so if they look promising come February, I expect them to pull the trigger on a trade that will help them get over the hump.
19 (24) Rockets 3-6
I still believe the Rockets are the most dangerous sub .500 team in the league, because they can score with the best teams. Once their defense picks up, which will depend on if they can get consistent contribution from Yao, I expect them to be a force to reckon with. But that is a big if, because I’m not sure Yao injury prone foot will be able to hold up for the entire season.
20 (22) Pistons 4-6
After starting the season 0-5, the Pistons have gone on to win 4 of their last 5 games. I am almost certain the Pistons will make a blockbuster trade before the deadline in February, which is why I expect them to make the playoffs. I expect either Rip Hamilton or Tayshaun Prince to get traded and it wouldn’t surprise me if both of them are traded.
21 (26) Bobcats 3-7
The Bobcats almost would have won their last three games had it not been for a 96-95 loss to the Jazz, a game in which they led by 15 points. I think the Bobcats are about to make a turn in the right direction and seriously contend for the eighth spot in the East. It wouldn’t surprise me if they traded Stephen Jackson before the deadline, because he and coach Brown don’t seem to be on the same page.
22 (29) Timberwolves 3-8
The Timberwolves Kevin Love was a man possessed when he posted 31 points and 31 rebounds against the Knicks. It was the first time in 28 years that one player had gotten over 30 points and 30 rebounds in a game in the nba. The last person to do that was Moses Malone. His performance helped give the Wolves a brief two game winning streak, which is the only highlight of what has been a dismal season so far.
23 (15) Grizzlies 4-6
The Grizzlies 116-110 overtime loss against the Celtics led to a 1-2 week. However, I expect them to bounce back because they have six players averaging double figures led by Rudy Gay’s 25.2ppg. They must improve on the 107.2 points that they are allowing their opponents to score, if they expect to improve.
24 (25) Nets 3-6
The Nets starting center Brook Lopez is averaging 17.3ppg, on a career low 39.9 field goal percentage. He has to play better for the Nets to have a fighting chance. Despite that, the Nets loss by only one point to the Magic 91-90 last week and are definitely a lot better than they were last season.
25 (18) Knicks 3-7
After starting the season 4-2, the Knicks have lose their last four games and not to point the finger, but I think forward Dalino Gallinari is one of the main reasons why. For a player who was expected to have a breakout season this year, he is only averaging 13.2ppg and his 36.7 field goal percent is clearly due to the fact that he expects to get traded any day for Carmelo Anthony. Also, for a team that speeds up their offense, the Knicks should have way more than 19.5 assist per game as a team, which is 23rd overall in the league.
26 (19) Kings 3-6
It hasn’t even been ten games this season and the Sacramento Kings are already dealing with the enigmatic personality of rookie center DeMarcus Cousins, who has been at odds with the coaching staff. Word of advice for the young fellow, Allen Iverson, one of the nba’s most exciting player is playing for a Turkish team because no nba team wants him. One thing about this league, you can have a job one day and be out the next. I am not saying Cousins is on his way out, but if he doesn’t seriously check his attitude he could be out by the time his rookie contract is up in five years and that will be very sad for a player that has so much potential.
27 (30) Raptors 2-8
I know it’s early in the season, but when you can go in Orlando and beat the Magic 110-106, you deserve to be promoted from the worst ranking in the league.
28 (27) Wizards 2-6
Before Gilbert Arenas rejoined the team, the Wizards were 1-2, since rejoining them the Wizards are 1-4 so I guess it’s fair to say he hasn’t made a difference except hinder the growth of rookie sensation John Wall.
29 (20) 76ers 2-8
The Sixers are definitely a team in transition and Andre Iguodala injury hasn’t helped the situation either. I expect the Sixers to make a change and their best trade chip is Iguodala, but the question is who will they trade him for?
30 (28) Clippers 1-9
Blake Griffin is the only bright spot in Clipperland, because with a 1-9 record, everybody should be on the trading block. The Clippers are looking miserable right now and deserves to have the last ranking entering week 4.
Monday, November 8, 2010
NBA WIZARD 2010-11 NBA POWER RANKING: WEEK 3
RK (LW) TEAM REC
1 (1) Lakers 7-0
The Lakers are averaging a league leading 114 points per game while allowing their opponents to score 100.4, a differential of 13.6 which is also tops in the league. The defending champs have the league‘s best record at 7-0 and look to be on track to three-peat.
2 (3) Celtics 6-1
Other than that lone loss, a lackadaisical performance in Cleveland, the Celtics are 6-1 and moved up ahead of Cleveland following a 4-0 week. The Celtics are averaging a league leading 26.9 assist per game (apg) led by their all-star point guard Rondo, who is leading the league in that category with 14.7apg.
3 (7) Hornets 6-0
The New Orleans Hornets are off to their best start in franchise history at 6-0 and continues to be the surprise team in first two weeks of the season. Chris Paul appears to be happy and how could he not be considering such a great start. I guess the trade rumors that surrounded Paul during the offseason are a distant memory for now.
4 (2) Heat 5-2
All you kept hearing in the summer was how Lebron would play this season with a vengeance, but so far that has not materialized. Lebron is only averaging 20.7ppg, the second lowest point total of his career and has clearly been the second best player for the Miami Heat behind Dwyane Wade. It really bothers me to see the fastest player in game, walking up the court playing the point guard role, which is definitely not his position. He needs to be finishing on the break like the dominant player that he is, rather than trying to be a facilitator, because all that does is slow him down and makes him less effective in my opinion. The Heat will continue to be one notch below Lakers and the Celtics, if Lebron continues to be their point guard.
5 (5) Magic 4-1
The Magic are second in the nba in rebounds at 47.2 and opponents point allowed at 88.6ppg and had it not been for their disappointing 96-70 loss to Miami, they would be the most efficient team offensively and defensively in the nba. Regardless of that fact, the Magic have recovered very nicely since that defeat to maintain the 5th ranking entering week 3.
6 (6) Hawks 6-1
The Atlanta Hawks were off to a great 6-0 start before losing 118-114 to Phoenix, their first loss of the season. The Hawks next game is against the Orlando Magic. It would be a nice test for the Hawks, so I am curious to see how they will respond.
7 (12) Spurs 4-1
The Spurs are second in the nba in assist at 26.2 and fourth in scoring at 109 points per game, but their opponents are averaging 105.4 points, which is 24th in nba. For years the Spurs have hung their hats on defense, but at 24th they must improve or a close overtime win like the 124-121 win over the Rockets could easily turn into defeats.
8 (11) Nuggets 4-2
For now things seems to be normal in Denver. Carmelo is averaging 24.7ppg on 51.4 percent shooting and Al Harrington has been a really nice being a spark off the bench at 16.2ppg, but does that mean Melo is staying? I still believe he will eventually end up in New York, the only question is when?
9 (4) Trail Blazers 5-3
The Blazers played 5 games last week, the most games played by any team in single week so far in the nba. They finished the week 2-3, but could have easily finished the week with a respectable 3-2 record had it not been for a heart breaking 107-106 overtime loss to the Thunder in Portland.
10 (9) Mavericks 3-2
The Mavericks had a light week with back to back games against the Denver Nuggets. They won one and loss one, so it’s really too early to determine how the Mavericks stack up against the other good teams in the league, but after week two they were able to finish with the 10th ranking.
11 (18) Warriors 4-2
If you wondering how the Warriors have a 4-2 record, all you need to do is look at two things. First, Monte Ellis and Steph Curry are the nba leading backcourt averaging 45.6ppg with Ellis leading the nba in scoring at 27.8ppg. Two, the Warriors new head coach Keith Smart actually have them playing defense. I know they are giving up 102.5 points to their opponent, but that is a major improvement considering the fact that the Warriors have been among the worst defensive teams in the nba for years.
12 (13) Jazz 3-3
The Jazz seem to be struggling to find their stride while getting their newly acquired center Al Jefferson acclimated to their system, but one thing hasn’t changed and that is they have continued to play hard. A prime example was against the Clippers. They were down 18 points in the first half and rookie sensation Blake Griffin had 15 points and 15 rebounds. Coach Sloan made the defensive adjustments and the Jazz held Griffin to only 1 point and 2 rebounds in the entire second half before fouling out. The Jazz went on to win in double overtime.
13 (8) Thunder 3-3
Pressure changes everything and that has clearly been the case for the Oklahoma City Thunder. They entered the season with expectations that were simply too high and with 66 percent of the nba General Managers predicting that Kevin Durant would win the nba’s MVP Award. So far they are 3-3, with two of their wins by one point each. They could have easily been 1-5 and the number one reason for that is because they are dead last in the nba in assist with 14.8 per game. In retrospect, the Celtics Rondo is leading the league with 14.7 assist per game.
14 (14) Phoenix 3-3
The Suns are still trying to find themselves, but with Steve Nash still leading the way, I expect them to make the playoffs. They showed that they can still play with the best as evident in their 118-114 win over the Hawks in Atlanta, giving the Hawks their first loss.
15 (15) Grizzlies 3-4
The Grizzlies are right at the top of the bottom half of the nba and Rudy Gaye has been very impressive with his 27.1ppg average. I guess Mike Conley is also trying to prove that he is worth his $45 million/5year contract extension. Personally I don’t think he is, but his 15.6ppg and 8.3apg may prove otherwise if he can maintain that average. Either way, I expect the Grizzlies to hover around a .500 record for the entire season, which might not be enough wins to make the playoffs in the West.
16 (10) Bulls 2-3
I know a 2-3 record makes the Bulls an underachieving team so far this season, but we can’t really judge them until Carlos Boozer returns. Without Booz they are a .500 ball club at best, because they still don’t have an inside presence.
17 (22) Cavaliers 3-3
For seven years I rooted for the Cavaliers, or should I say I rooted for Lebron James. Well, I have news to report. If the season ended today, the Cavaliers would be the 4th seed, due to the fact that they are leading their division and the Heat, Lebron’s new team would be 5th and they would actually be matched up against each other in round one. That would be a very ironic scenario.
18 (20) Knicks 3-3
As of today, the Knicks are actually a playoff team in the East with a 3-3 record and could actually end up making the playoffs in the East considering who they have to finish ahead off. Tony Douglas and Wilson Chandler are averaging a combined 32.8ppg, which is definitely increasing their trade value in what I believe will be an inevitable trade with the Denver Nuggets for Carmelo Anthony.
19 (19) Kings 3-3
The Kings are off to a fairly decent start at 3-3, but the one thing we need to keep an eye on is how rookie center DeMarcus Cousins will react to losing the starting position to Samuel Dalembert. Against the Grizzlies in 23 minutes minutes Cousins only had 4 points on 1 for 4 shooting off the bench. Will he continue to play poorly or, will he use this opportunity to improve? The Kings will benefit greatly if he chooses the latter.
20 (28) 76ers 2-5
Elton Brand game has been rejuvenated under new head coach Doug Collins and after a 0-3 opening week, the Sixers finished last week 2-2, but could have finished 3-1 had it not been for a 116-115 overtime loss to the Wizards. The Sixers five losses are by a combined 28 points, which is an indication that they have been competitive in all their games. Andre Iguodala health could be a problem. He missed their last game, but hopefully he’s not out for much longer.
21 (17) Pacers 2-3
The Pacers took a step back last week with two losses including a 101-75 blowout loss in Philadelphia. They are definitely a work in progress and will go as far as Granger, Collison and Hibbert takes them, however, Granger is the key to their success. Against Philly he made only 2 out of the 14 shots he took for 7 points, the Pacers have no chance of winning with a performance like that from Granger. Hibbert and Collison may be a work in progress, but Granger must be more consistent in order for the Pacers to be competitive.
22 (26) Pistons 2-5
The Pistons are definitely better than their 2-5 record and I expect them to get it together sooner than later. At best they are a 7th or 8th seed in the East, but I think they could make the playoffs if their ownership issue gets resolved and if and when they make a trade. I believe Prince or Hamilton will be traded by the deadline.
23 (16) Bucks 2-5
The Bucks are fifth in the league in opponents points allowed at 93 a game, which indicates they are playing the type of defense that coach Scott Skiles wants them to play. However, they are dead last in scoring at 89.6 points per game and that is simply not going to get it done. I expect them to improve because their defense is solid.
24 (29) Rockets 1-5
The Rockets have loss by 2, 3 and 4 points in three of the five defeats, which is a clear indication that they are definitely better than their 1-5 record. However, one thing has remained constant all season long for the Rockets and that is they are 29th in the league in opponent points allowing 112.7 per game. The Rockets could be out of the playoff race very soon if they don’t start addressing their defensive woes.
25 (21) Nets 2-4
The New Jersey Nets started the season winning their first two games, but has since reeled off four straight losses. The Nets problems can be attributed primarily to the play of their star center Brook Lopez who is shooting a career low 39.8 percent from the field. Lopez is taking 17.2 shots for his 18.8 points, which must improve if the Nets expect to have any chance of being competitive on a nightly basis.
26 (25) Bobcats 1-5
A few weeks ago, the legendary Michael Jordan, the majority owner of the Bobcats was quoted saying he enjoyed the challenge of running the team and he was happy with the Bobcats current state. Well, that was before the season started. In their defense, most of their games have been competitive, but simply playing hard is just not good enough.
27 (27) Wizards 1-4
The Wizards will continue to be an exciting team thanks to ROY candidate John Wall and the return of Gilbert Arenas should provide them with veteran leadership, but will it be enough to put the Wizards over the hump? I don’t think so, at least not this season.
28 (30) Clippers 1-6
The only bright spot for the Clippers this season is Blake Griffin. Losing Baron Davis to injury has hurt the team tremendously. I think the Clips need to figure out a way to incorporate Griffin more in the offense somehow, because without Davis and with Kaman having a subpar season, the Clippers need to find more scoring options.
29 (24) Minnesota 1-6
The Timberwolves are the worst defensive team in the nba, allowing 114.4 points per game to their opponents, but ironically they are the best rebounding team with 48.7 per game. They do have some upside, but collectively they need to find an identity, because as of right now they just seem to be going through the motions.
30 (23) Raptors 1-5
The Raptors only bright spot this season was a 20 points win over the Cavaliers and the fact that their starting center Andrea Bargnani is averaging 20.3ppg has also been a refreshing. Outside of that, they remind me of a Euro League team because of all the foreign players that they have.
1 (1) Lakers 7-0
The Lakers are averaging a league leading 114 points per game while allowing their opponents to score 100.4, a differential of 13.6 which is also tops in the league. The defending champs have the league‘s best record at 7-0 and look to be on track to three-peat.
2 (3) Celtics 6-1
Other than that lone loss, a lackadaisical performance in Cleveland, the Celtics are 6-1 and moved up ahead of Cleveland following a 4-0 week. The Celtics are averaging a league leading 26.9 assist per game (apg) led by their all-star point guard Rondo, who is leading the league in that category with 14.7apg.
3 (7) Hornets 6-0
The New Orleans Hornets are off to their best start in franchise history at 6-0 and continues to be the surprise team in first two weeks of the season. Chris Paul appears to be happy and how could he not be considering such a great start. I guess the trade rumors that surrounded Paul during the offseason are a distant memory for now.
4 (2) Heat 5-2
All you kept hearing in the summer was how Lebron would play this season with a vengeance, but so far that has not materialized. Lebron is only averaging 20.7ppg, the second lowest point total of his career and has clearly been the second best player for the Miami Heat behind Dwyane Wade. It really bothers me to see the fastest player in game, walking up the court playing the point guard role, which is definitely not his position. He needs to be finishing on the break like the dominant player that he is, rather than trying to be a facilitator, because all that does is slow him down and makes him less effective in my opinion. The Heat will continue to be one notch below Lakers and the Celtics, if Lebron continues to be their point guard.
5 (5) Magic 4-1
The Magic are second in the nba in rebounds at 47.2 and opponents point allowed at 88.6ppg and had it not been for their disappointing 96-70 loss to Miami, they would be the most efficient team offensively and defensively in the nba. Regardless of that fact, the Magic have recovered very nicely since that defeat to maintain the 5th ranking entering week 3.
6 (6) Hawks 6-1
The Atlanta Hawks were off to a great 6-0 start before losing 118-114 to Phoenix, their first loss of the season. The Hawks next game is against the Orlando Magic. It would be a nice test for the Hawks, so I am curious to see how they will respond.
7 (12) Spurs 4-1
The Spurs are second in the nba in assist at 26.2 and fourth in scoring at 109 points per game, but their opponents are averaging 105.4 points, which is 24th in nba. For years the Spurs have hung their hats on defense, but at 24th they must improve or a close overtime win like the 124-121 win over the Rockets could easily turn into defeats.
8 (11) Nuggets 4-2
For now things seems to be normal in Denver. Carmelo is averaging 24.7ppg on 51.4 percent shooting and Al Harrington has been a really nice being a spark off the bench at 16.2ppg, but does that mean Melo is staying? I still believe he will eventually end up in New York, the only question is when?
9 (4) Trail Blazers 5-3
The Blazers played 5 games last week, the most games played by any team in single week so far in the nba. They finished the week 2-3, but could have easily finished the week with a respectable 3-2 record had it not been for a heart breaking 107-106 overtime loss to the Thunder in Portland.
10 (9) Mavericks 3-2
The Mavericks had a light week with back to back games against the Denver Nuggets. They won one and loss one, so it’s really too early to determine how the Mavericks stack up against the other good teams in the league, but after week two they were able to finish with the 10th ranking.
11 (18) Warriors 4-2
If you wondering how the Warriors have a 4-2 record, all you need to do is look at two things. First, Monte Ellis and Steph Curry are the nba leading backcourt averaging 45.6ppg with Ellis leading the nba in scoring at 27.8ppg. Two, the Warriors new head coach Keith Smart actually have them playing defense. I know they are giving up 102.5 points to their opponent, but that is a major improvement considering the fact that the Warriors have been among the worst defensive teams in the nba for years.
12 (13) Jazz 3-3
The Jazz seem to be struggling to find their stride while getting their newly acquired center Al Jefferson acclimated to their system, but one thing hasn’t changed and that is they have continued to play hard. A prime example was against the Clippers. They were down 18 points in the first half and rookie sensation Blake Griffin had 15 points and 15 rebounds. Coach Sloan made the defensive adjustments and the Jazz held Griffin to only 1 point and 2 rebounds in the entire second half before fouling out. The Jazz went on to win in double overtime.
13 (8) Thunder 3-3
Pressure changes everything and that has clearly been the case for the Oklahoma City Thunder. They entered the season with expectations that were simply too high and with 66 percent of the nba General Managers predicting that Kevin Durant would win the nba’s MVP Award. So far they are 3-3, with two of their wins by one point each. They could have easily been 1-5 and the number one reason for that is because they are dead last in the nba in assist with 14.8 per game. In retrospect, the Celtics Rondo is leading the league with 14.7 assist per game.
14 (14) Phoenix 3-3
The Suns are still trying to find themselves, but with Steve Nash still leading the way, I expect them to make the playoffs. They showed that they can still play with the best as evident in their 118-114 win over the Hawks in Atlanta, giving the Hawks their first loss.
15 (15) Grizzlies 3-4
The Grizzlies are right at the top of the bottom half of the nba and Rudy Gaye has been very impressive with his 27.1ppg average. I guess Mike Conley is also trying to prove that he is worth his $45 million/5year contract extension. Personally I don’t think he is, but his 15.6ppg and 8.3apg may prove otherwise if he can maintain that average. Either way, I expect the Grizzlies to hover around a .500 record for the entire season, which might not be enough wins to make the playoffs in the West.
16 (10) Bulls 2-3
I know a 2-3 record makes the Bulls an underachieving team so far this season, but we can’t really judge them until Carlos Boozer returns. Without Booz they are a .500 ball club at best, because they still don’t have an inside presence.
17 (22) Cavaliers 3-3
For seven years I rooted for the Cavaliers, or should I say I rooted for Lebron James. Well, I have news to report. If the season ended today, the Cavaliers would be the 4th seed, due to the fact that they are leading their division and the Heat, Lebron’s new team would be 5th and they would actually be matched up against each other in round one. That would be a very ironic scenario.
18 (20) Knicks 3-3
As of today, the Knicks are actually a playoff team in the East with a 3-3 record and could actually end up making the playoffs in the East considering who they have to finish ahead off. Tony Douglas and Wilson Chandler are averaging a combined 32.8ppg, which is definitely increasing their trade value in what I believe will be an inevitable trade with the Denver Nuggets for Carmelo Anthony.
19 (19) Kings 3-3
The Kings are off to a fairly decent start at 3-3, but the one thing we need to keep an eye on is how rookie center DeMarcus Cousins will react to losing the starting position to Samuel Dalembert. Against the Grizzlies in 23 minutes minutes Cousins only had 4 points on 1 for 4 shooting off the bench. Will he continue to play poorly or, will he use this opportunity to improve? The Kings will benefit greatly if he chooses the latter.
20 (28) 76ers 2-5
Elton Brand game has been rejuvenated under new head coach Doug Collins and after a 0-3 opening week, the Sixers finished last week 2-2, but could have finished 3-1 had it not been for a 116-115 overtime loss to the Wizards. The Sixers five losses are by a combined 28 points, which is an indication that they have been competitive in all their games. Andre Iguodala health could be a problem. He missed their last game, but hopefully he’s not out for much longer.
21 (17) Pacers 2-3
The Pacers took a step back last week with two losses including a 101-75 blowout loss in Philadelphia. They are definitely a work in progress and will go as far as Granger, Collison and Hibbert takes them, however, Granger is the key to their success. Against Philly he made only 2 out of the 14 shots he took for 7 points, the Pacers have no chance of winning with a performance like that from Granger. Hibbert and Collison may be a work in progress, but Granger must be more consistent in order for the Pacers to be competitive.
22 (26) Pistons 2-5
The Pistons are definitely better than their 2-5 record and I expect them to get it together sooner than later. At best they are a 7th or 8th seed in the East, but I think they could make the playoffs if their ownership issue gets resolved and if and when they make a trade. I believe Prince or Hamilton will be traded by the deadline.
23 (16) Bucks 2-5
The Bucks are fifth in the league in opponents points allowed at 93 a game, which indicates they are playing the type of defense that coach Scott Skiles wants them to play. However, they are dead last in scoring at 89.6 points per game and that is simply not going to get it done. I expect them to improve because their defense is solid.
24 (29) Rockets 1-5
The Rockets have loss by 2, 3 and 4 points in three of the five defeats, which is a clear indication that they are definitely better than their 1-5 record. However, one thing has remained constant all season long for the Rockets and that is they are 29th in the league in opponent points allowing 112.7 per game. The Rockets could be out of the playoff race very soon if they don’t start addressing their defensive woes.
25 (21) Nets 2-4
The New Jersey Nets started the season winning their first two games, but has since reeled off four straight losses. The Nets problems can be attributed primarily to the play of their star center Brook Lopez who is shooting a career low 39.8 percent from the field. Lopez is taking 17.2 shots for his 18.8 points, which must improve if the Nets expect to have any chance of being competitive on a nightly basis.
26 (25) Bobcats 1-5
A few weeks ago, the legendary Michael Jordan, the majority owner of the Bobcats was quoted saying he enjoyed the challenge of running the team and he was happy with the Bobcats current state. Well, that was before the season started. In their defense, most of their games have been competitive, but simply playing hard is just not good enough.
27 (27) Wizards 1-4
The Wizards will continue to be an exciting team thanks to ROY candidate John Wall and the return of Gilbert Arenas should provide them with veteran leadership, but will it be enough to put the Wizards over the hump? I don’t think so, at least not this season.
28 (30) Clippers 1-6
The only bright spot for the Clippers this season is Blake Griffin. Losing Baron Davis to injury has hurt the team tremendously. I think the Clips need to figure out a way to incorporate Griffin more in the offense somehow, because without Davis and with Kaman having a subpar season, the Clippers need to find more scoring options.
29 (24) Minnesota 1-6
The Timberwolves are the worst defensive team in the nba, allowing 114.4 points per game to their opponents, but ironically they are the best rebounding team with 48.7 per game. They do have some upside, but collectively they need to find an identity, because as of right now they just seem to be going through the motions.
30 (23) Raptors 1-5
The Raptors only bright spot this season was a 20 points win over the Cavaliers and the fact that their starting center Andrea Bargnani is averaging 20.3ppg has also been a refreshing. Outside of that, they remind me of a Euro League team because of all the foreign players that they have.
Monday, November 1, 2010
NBA WIZARD 2010-11 POWER RANKING: WEEK 2
RK (LW) TEAM REC
1 (1) Lakers 3-0
The Lakers are a very good team when Kobe and Gasol plays well, but adding Lamar Odom to the mix makes them virtually unbeatable. Odom was dominant in week one averaging 16ppg and 13.7rpg, which lead to a 3-0 start for the defending champs.
2 (3) Heat 3-1
After the first game of the season in which the Heat loss 88-80 to the Celtics, every doubter and Heat hater had something negative to say, totally ignoring the fact that it was just the first game of the season. The Heat went on to win their next three games in convincing fashion and their stifling defense allowed their four opponents to average an nba low of 80.8 points per game. They haven’t even come close to their offensive potential. Lebron, Chris and Dwyane (LCD) averaged only 55ppg in the first week. The Heat will be a terrifying team for their opponents when the big three (LCD) hit their offensive peak of an average of around 70ppg.
3 (2) Celtics 2-1
After an 88-80 win over the Heat, I thought that the Celtics would finish their week undefeated, but they laid an egg by losing to the Lebron-less Cavaliers in Cleveland the very next game. Maybe it was a lack of focus or, maybe the Celtics are an aging team and an up and down season is what we should expect. Their one bright spot was Rondo, the self-proclaimed best point guard in the nba who dished out 24 assist in a 105-101 win against the Knicks. Not to put too much on it, but after losing to Cleveland, the Celtics only beat the Knicks by 4 points in Boston and it took 24 assists from Rondo to do it.
4 (10) Trail Blazers 3-0
The Blazers moved up 6 spots to claim the third ranking thanks to going undefeated in week one. They had 5 players average double figures in scoring led by Brandon Roy, the player Kobe Bryant claimed is the hardest player to guard. He is off to an impressive start with a 25ppg average.
5 (4) Magic 1-1
Coming into this season, the Magic were sporting a 21 game winning streak in the preseason, but like I’ve said from day one, the preseason is a fluke. In their first game they came out with a very impressive 112-83 win over the Washington Wizards, but that was before running into a revamped Miami Heat team. Their 96-70 loss to Miami was a humbling experience, but that was only 1 out of 82 games so let’s not get alarmed and start passing judgment because the Magic will recover.
6 (11) Hawks 3-0
Entering the season, I felt that the Hawks had no upside due to the stagnant offense. Too much one on one and no ball movement with the ball usually ending up in Joe Johnson’s hands at the end of the shot clock was the way the Hawks played over the last few seasons. In the first week however, the Hawks seem to be a completely different team. Yes Joe Johnson led them in scoring with 23ppg, but the Hawks also had 5 other players average double figures in scoring leading to a 107.3ppg average over their first 3 games. They could be a scary team if they continue to move the ball and keep up this pace.
7 (19) Hornets 3-0
The Hornets had the most impressive week by beating the Bucks, Nuggets and the Spurs. This allowed them to jump 11 spots in the rankings. CP3 averaged 20ppg and 9.3apg to lead the charge and I guess new head coach Monte Williams seems to be reaching his team early in the season, which surprises me considering all of the uncertainty surrounding CP3 future with the team during the summer.
8 (8) Thunder 2-1
I expect the Thunder to improve this season, but like Jeff Van Gundy said, their improvement may not necessarily mean more wins. They have the bull eye on their backs, which means they will not sneak up on teams like they did last season. Maintaining and finishing with the same record as they did last season with this bulls eye on them, would be an improvement in my book. Had it not been for a one point 105-104 victory over the struggling Pistons, the Thunder could be 1-2 right now. As far as the mvp race, I think everyone needs to hold off on rushing to crown the nba’s newest poster child Kevin Durant who averaged 29.3ppg on only 38.8% from the field.
9 (6) Dallas 2-1
Adding Tyson Chandler this season definitely makes the Mavericks a much better defensive team. Having two 7 footers to combat the Lakers interior makes them a formidable opponent and you can expect them to be right there when the season ends. I expect for them to increase on their current streak of 10 straight seasons with at least 50 wins.
10 (9) Bulls 1-1
Derrick Rose did all he could to make sure his team did not start the season 0-2 by posting a league best 33.5ppg. Joakim Noah fresh of his new 5 year/$65 million contract extension played like a beast averaging 16.5ppg and leads the league 18 rebounds per game. The Bulls has the potential be a top 5 team once Carlos Boozer returns from injury.
11 (14) Nuggets 2-1
Carmelo did not help the unstable situation in Denver when he confirmed recently that he will not re-sign with the Nuggets. All this did was put trade talks back in motion. The Nuggets are good enough and will continue to be a playoff team, but it is evident that Carmelo will indeed be traded.
12 (5) Spurs 1-1
It’s one thing to ask your teammates not to take the regular season for granted like the Spurs Ginobili did, but it’s a though feat for an aging team. However, I still believe the Spurs will be the team that will ultimately challenge the Lakers in the West this season. Re-signing Tony Parker to a 4 year/$50 million extension was a good gesture on the part of the Spurs which showed their commitment to winning.
13 (7) Jazz 1-2
I know the Jazz are off to a slow start, but their 120-99 win in their last game over Oklahoma reminded us that Jerry Sloan is still their coach. The Jazz will play hard which will equate into wins. I expect them to move up in the rankings once newly acquired center Al Jefferson gets acclimated to coach Sloan’s system.
14 (15) Suns 1-2
The Suns are also off to a slow start with a 1-2 week, but their two losses were to Portland and the Lakers. The Suns will be fine once newly acquired forwards Warrick and Hedo gets familiar with the Suns system. I expect them to be a playoff team, but their upside may be limited especially with the West being so deep.
15 (17) Grizzlies 2-1
Obviously Rudy’s Gay (22.3ppg and 8rpg) continues to be the Grizzlies leader, but that should be expected considering the Grizzlies signed Gay to a 5 year/$80 million extension this during the summer. The surprise for Griz however, has been Second year forward Darrell Arthur, who is averaging 17ppg on 60% shooting.
16 (12) Bucks 1-2
The Bucks started the season with two disappointing losses to New Orleans and Minnesota, but rebounded with a 98-88 win over the Bobcats in Milwaukee to avoid going 0-3 week one. The one bright spot for the Bucks is that they allowed their opponents to score an average of 93 points, which was 8th best in the league. They should be fine once they improve on the 91.3 points they average, which was 26th in the league.
17 (24) Pacers 2-1
The Pacers moved up 7 spots with a 2-1 week thanks in part to having 5 players averaging double figures in scoring led by Danny Granger’s 27ppg. The Pacers success will depend on if second year center Roy Hibbert and newly acquired point guard Darren Collison continues to improve. Hibbert is off to a great start averaging 18ppg, 10rpg along with 2.7bpg.
18 (25) Warriors 2-1
The Warriors were off to a nice 2-0 start before losing Steph Curry to an ankle injury. Hopefully he is not out much longer than one game, because the Warriors cannot afford to be without him if they expect to maintain or move up. Monte Ellis either improved his trade value or made it difficult for the Warriors to give him up considering how well he played in week one with a 27ppg average making a whopping 58.9% of his shots.
19 (27) Kings 2-1
From what I hear, Sacramento’s rookie DeMarcus Cousins in determined to win the Rookie of the Year (ROY) award, but I expect him to come up short behind the Clipper Blake Griffin and the Wizards John Wall. Yet in week one, Cousins was somewhat impressive with averages of 13.3ppg and 7.3rpg. As a team, the Kings have 6 players averaging double figures, which is the reason behind their 2-1 start.
20 (20) Knicks 1-2
In all fairness to the Knicks, they had a very though schedule to start the season, despite that, they loss by a combined 9 points to Portland and Boston. Knicks forward Wilson Chandler is off to an excellent start averaging 21ppg and if forward Gallinari can fight his way out off an early season funk, the Knicks should be fine. The problem is the young fellow game may be bothered due to all the trade talks surrounding him in a package for Carmelo Anthony.
21 (28) Nets 2-1
The Nets definitely made an improvement and actually won their first two games this season. Brook Lopez played like an all-star averaging 24.7ppg, but he must improve on his 6.7rpg. Rookie Derrick Favors has improved after a subpar preseason and is averaging a double-double, 10.3ppg and 10rpg in only 21.3 minutes per game and clear indication of why the Nets drafting him with the 3rd overall pick.
22 (23) Cavaliers 1-2
The Cavaliers shocked the basketball world by beating the Celtics in their first game of the season, but followed up with two losses to Toronto and Sacramento. Let’s not forget, the Cavs have been without Mo Williams who I expect to lead them in scoring this season. With that said, playing without Lebron will be a strange adjustment for the Cavs this season.
23 (30) Raptors 1-1
The Raptors only played 2 games in week one, but their 20 points win over the Cavaliers as along with several teams going winless was enough to give them the 23rd spot.
24 (26) Minnesota 1-2
There’s nothing new to report on the Minnesota front except that Michael Beasley is leading them in scoring. I don’t know if that’s a good thing, but then again, who else do they have? They traded former all-star center Al Jefferson to allow Kevin Love the opportunity to blossom and so far this season Kevin is averaging 14ppg and 13rpg.
25 (18) Bobcats 0-3
To understand why the Bobcats are winless all you have to do is look at the 101 points average they are allowing their opponents to score. Could they already be missing the defensive presence of Tyson Chandler? Or, did they peak last season and we are about to witness a downward spiral, which will eventually lead to a Larry Brown departure?
26 (29) Pistons 0-3
The Pistons first two losses were by a combined 4 points before losing to the Bulls in Chicago by 10 in a game in which they were ahead by 15. They are the only winless team that could easily be 3-0 if a few bounces had gone their way. A competitive week with no wins was still enough to move the Pistons up 3 spots.
27 (21) Wizards 0-2
John Wall almost took over the ROY race by putting up 28 points and 9 assist in his second game, but the Wizards still suffered a 99-95 loss to Atlanta. Expect for the Wizards to be a somewhat better team once Gilbert Arenas returns, but make no mistake, this team will go as far as John Wall can take them.
28 (22) 76ers 0-3
Imagine being matched up with Miami, Atlanta and Indiana in the first week of the season? That was what the 76ers had to deal with in week one. Most good teams would lose 2 out of 3 of those games so an 0-3 start is not that bad when you put things in prospective.
29 (13) Rockets 0-3
To say that the Houston Rockets are having the most disappointing season of any team thus far would be an understatement. They are the second best offensive team behind the Lakers averaging 110ppg, but they are also the league’s worst defensive team allowing their opponents a mind blowing 117ppg. There is no way I expect this trend to continue, but after week one the Rockets are ranked 29th. They would have dropped to the last spot if not for their 110ppg average.
30 (16) Clippers 0-3
The Clippers are a work in progress and with rookie sensation Blake Griffin not really having a post game yet, the Clippers have been relying heavily on Chris Kaman who is shooting a woeful 29.8 percent from the field. Griffin is averaging a double-double with 16.7ppg and 11rpg, but beside Kaman, the Clippers are getting nothing from Baron Davis who is also shooting a woeful 32.4 percent from the field while making on 11 percent of his 3s. Kaman and Davis must come around very soon or else the Clippers could be in for a long a miserable season.
1 (1) Lakers 3-0
The Lakers are a very good team when Kobe and Gasol plays well, but adding Lamar Odom to the mix makes them virtually unbeatable. Odom was dominant in week one averaging 16ppg and 13.7rpg, which lead to a 3-0 start for the defending champs.
2 (3) Heat 3-1
After the first game of the season in which the Heat loss 88-80 to the Celtics, every doubter and Heat hater had something negative to say, totally ignoring the fact that it was just the first game of the season. The Heat went on to win their next three games in convincing fashion and their stifling defense allowed their four opponents to average an nba low of 80.8 points per game. They haven’t even come close to their offensive potential. Lebron, Chris and Dwyane (LCD) averaged only 55ppg in the first week. The Heat will be a terrifying team for their opponents when the big three (LCD) hit their offensive peak of an average of around 70ppg.
3 (2) Celtics 2-1
After an 88-80 win over the Heat, I thought that the Celtics would finish their week undefeated, but they laid an egg by losing to the Lebron-less Cavaliers in Cleveland the very next game. Maybe it was a lack of focus or, maybe the Celtics are an aging team and an up and down season is what we should expect. Their one bright spot was Rondo, the self-proclaimed best point guard in the nba who dished out 24 assist in a 105-101 win against the Knicks. Not to put too much on it, but after losing to Cleveland, the Celtics only beat the Knicks by 4 points in Boston and it took 24 assists from Rondo to do it.
4 (10) Trail Blazers 3-0
The Blazers moved up 6 spots to claim the third ranking thanks to going undefeated in week one. They had 5 players average double figures in scoring led by Brandon Roy, the player Kobe Bryant claimed is the hardest player to guard. He is off to an impressive start with a 25ppg average.
5 (4) Magic 1-1
Coming into this season, the Magic were sporting a 21 game winning streak in the preseason, but like I’ve said from day one, the preseason is a fluke. In their first game they came out with a very impressive 112-83 win over the Washington Wizards, but that was before running into a revamped Miami Heat team. Their 96-70 loss to Miami was a humbling experience, but that was only 1 out of 82 games so let’s not get alarmed and start passing judgment because the Magic will recover.
6 (11) Hawks 3-0
Entering the season, I felt that the Hawks had no upside due to the stagnant offense. Too much one on one and no ball movement with the ball usually ending up in Joe Johnson’s hands at the end of the shot clock was the way the Hawks played over the last few seasons. In the first week however, the Hawks seem to be a completely different team. Yes Joe Johnson led them in scoring with 23ppg, but the Hawks also had 5 other players average double figures in scoring leading to a 107.3ppg average over their first 3 games. They could be a scary team if they continue to move the ball and keep up this pace.
7 (19) Hornets 3-0
The Hornets had the most impressive week by beating the Bucks, Nuggets and the Spurs. This allowed them to jump 11 spots in the rankings. CP3 averaged 20ppg and 9.3apg to lead the charge and I guess new head coach Monte Williams seems to be reaching his team early in the season, which surprises me considering all of the uncertainty surrounding CP3 future with the team during the summer.
8 (8) Thunder 2-1
I expect the Thunder to improve this season, but like Jeff Van Gundy said, their improvement may not necessarily mean more wins. They have the bull eye on their backs, which means they will not sneak up on teams like they did last season. Maintaining and finishing with the same record as they did last season with this bulls eye on them, would be an improvement in my book. Had it not been for a one point 105-104 victory over the struggling Pistons, the Thunder could be 1-2 right now. As far as the mvp race, I think everyone needs to hold off on rushing to crown the nba’s newest poster child Kevin Durant who averaged 29.3ppg on only 38.8% from the field.
9 (6) Dallas 2-1
Adding Tyson Chandler this season definitely makes the Mavericks a much better defensive team. Having two 7 footers to combat the Lakers interior makes them a formidable opponent and you can expect them to be right there when the season ends. I expect for them to increase on their current streak of 10 straight seasons with at least 50 wins.
10 (9) Bulls 1-1
Derrick Rose did all he could to make sure his team did not start the season 0-2 by posting a league best 33.5ppg. Joakim Noah fresh of his new 5 year/$65 million contract extension played like a beast averaging 16.5ppg and leads the league 18 rebounds per game. The Bulls has the potential be a top 5 team once Carlos Boozer returns from injury.
11 (14) Nuggets 2-1
Carmelo did not help the unstable situation in Denver when he confirmed recently that he will not re-sign with the Nuggets. All this did was put trade talks back in motion. The Nuggets are good enough and will continue to be a playoff team, but it is evident that Carmelo will indeed be traded.
12 (5) Spurs 1-1
It’s one thing to ask your teammates not to take the regular season for granted like the Spurs Ginobili did, but it’s a though feat for an aging team. However, I still believe the Spurs will be the team that will ultimately challenge the Lakers in the West this season. Re-signing Tony Parker to a 4 year/$50 million extension was a good gesture on the part of the Spurs which showed their commitment to winning.
13 (7) Jazz 1-2
I know the Jazz are off to a slow start, but their 120-99 win in their last game over Oklahoma reminded us that Jerry Sloan is still their coach. The Jazz will play hard which will equate into wins. I expect them to move up in the rankings once newly acquired center Al Jefferson gets acclimated to coach Sloan’s system.
14 (15) Suns 1-2
The Suns are also off to a slow start with a 1-2 week, but their two losses were to Portland and the Lakers. The Suns will be fine once newly acquired forwards Warrick and Hedo gets familiar with the Suns system. I expect them to be a playoff team, but their upside may be limited especially with the West being so deep.
15 (17) Grizzlies 2-1
Obviously Rudy’s Gay (22.3ppg and 8rpg) continues to be the Grizzlies leader, but that should be expected considering the Grizzlies signed Gay to a 5 year/$80 million extension this during the summer. The surprise for Griz however, has been Second year forward Darrell Arthur, who is averaging 17ppg on 60% shooting.
16 (12) Bucks 1-2
The Bucks started the season with two disappointing losses to New Orleans and Minnesota, but rebounded with a 98-88 win over the Bobcats in Milwaukee to avoid going 0-3 week one. The one bright spot for the Bucks is that they allowed their opponents to score an average of 93 points, which was 8th best in the league. They should be fine once they improve on the 91.3 points they average, which was 26th in the league.
17 (24) Pacers 2-1
The Pacers moved up 7 spots with a 2-1 week thanks in part to having 5 players averaging double figures in scoring led by Danny Granger’s 27ppg. The Pacers success will depend on if second year center Roy Hibbert and newly acquired point guard Darren Collison continues to improve. Hibbert is off to a great start averaging 18ppg, 10rpg along with 2.7bpg.
18 (25) Warriors 2-1
The Warriors were off to a nice 2-0 start before losing Steph Curry to an ankle injury. Hopefully he is not out much longer than one game, because the Warriors cannot afford to be without him if they expect to maintain or move up. Monte Ellis either improved his trade value or made it difficult for the Warriors to give him up considering how well he played in week one with a 27ppg average making a whopping 58.9% of his shots.
19 (27) Kings 2-1
From what I hear, Sacramento’s rookie DeMarcus Cousins in determined to win the Rookie of the Year (ROY) award, but I expect him to come up short behind the Clipper Blake Griffin and the Wizards John Wall. Yet in week one, Cousins was somewhat impressive with averages of 13.3ppg and 7.3rpg. As a team, the Kings have 6 players averaging double figures, which is the reason behind their 2-1 start.
20 (20) Knicks 1-2
In all fairness to the Knicks, they had a very though schedule to start the season, despite that, they loss by a combined 9 points to Portland and Boston. Knicks forward Wilson Chandler is off to an excellent start averaging 21ppg and if forward Gallinari can fight his way out off an early season funk, the Knicks should be fine. The problem is the young fellow game may be bothered due to all the trade talks surrounding him in a package for Carmelo Anthony.
21 (28) Nets 2-1
The Nets definitely made an improvement and actually won their first two games this season. Brook Lopez played like an all-star averaging 24.7ppg, but he must improve on his 6.7rpg. Rookie Derrick Favors has improved after a subpar preseason and is averaging a double-double, 10.3ppg and 10rpg in only 21.3 minutes per game and clear indication of why the Nets drafting him with the 3rd overall pick.
22 (23) Cavaliers 1-2
The Cavaliers shocked the basketball world by beating the Celtics in their first game of the season, but followed up with two losses to Toronto and Sacramento. Let’s not forget, the Cavs have been without Mo Williams who I expect to lead them in scoring this season. With that said, playing without Lebron will be a strange adjustment for the Cavs this season.
23 (30) Raptors 1-1
The Raptors only played 2 games in week one, but their 20 points win over the Cavaliers as along with several teams going winless was enough to give them the 23rd spot.
24 (26) Minnesota 1-2
There’s nothing new to report on the Minnesota front except that Michael Beasley is leading them in scoring. I don’t know if that’s a good thing, but then again, who else do they have? They traded former all-star center Al Jefferson to allow Kevin Love the opportunity to blossom and so far this season Kevin is averaging 14ppg and 13rpg.
25 (18) Bobcats 0-3
To understand why the Bobcats are winless all you have to do is look at the 101 points average they are allowing their opponents to score. Could they already be missing the defensive presence of Tyson Chandler? Or, did they peak last season and we are about to witness a downward spiral, which will eventually lead to a Larry Brown departure?
26 (29) Pistons 0-3
The Pistons first two losses were by a combined 4 points before losing to the Bulls in Chicago by 10 in a game in which they were ahead by 15. They are the only winless team that could easily be 3-0 if a few bounces had gone their way. A competitive week with no wins was still enough to move the Pistons up 3 spots.
27 (21) Wizards 0-2
John Wall almost took over the ROY race by putting up 28 points and 9 assist in his second game, but the Wizards still suffered a 99-95 loss to Atlanta. Expect for the Wizards to be a somewhat better team once Gilbert Arenas returns, but make no mistake, this team will go as far as John Wall can take them.
28 (22) 76ers 0-3
Imagine being matched up with Miami, Atlanta and Indiana in the first week of the season? That was what the 76ers had to deal with in week one. Most good teams would lose 2 out of 3 of those games so an 0-3 start is not that bad when you put things in prospective.
29 (13) Rockets 0-3
To say that the Houston Rockets are having the most disappointing season of any team thus far would be an understatement. They are the second best offensive team behind the Lakers averaging 110ppg, but they are also the league’s worst defensive team allowing their opponents a mind blowing 117ppg. There is no way I expect this trend to continue, but after week one the Rockets are ranked 29th. They would have dropped to the last spot if not for their 110ppg average.
30 (16) Clippers 0-3
The Clippers are a work in progress and with rookie sensation Blake Griffin not really having a post game yet, the Clippers have been relying heavily on Chris Kaman who is shooting a woeful 29.8 percent from the field. Griffin is averaging a double-double with 16.7ppg and 11rpg, but beside Kaman, the Clippers are getting nothing from Baron Davis who is also shooting a woeful 32.4 percent from the field while making on 11 percent of his 3s. Kaman and Davis must come around very soon or else the Clippers could be in for a long a miserable season.
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