On Dwight Howard, Leverage, and Oversized Egos

Quick! Name the 5 biggest superstars in the NBA right now. My guess is most people shouted LeBron, Kobe, Kevin Durant, D-Wade, and one out of Dirk, Carmelo, Tim Duncan, Chris Paul or some other max-contract player. Dwight Howard shouldn't be anywhere near the top. There's nothing game-changing, enigmatic, or incredible about him or his game, to me at least. DH12 aka Superman.

Bizarro has been deemed the best at a position that has three or four other legitimate candidates, which is absurd! One look at Howard's statistics shows how little he contributes exceptionally other than shot-blocking and rebounding. Have a look at a comparison of these three big mens' stats:

Big Man A:

 26.0 PPG - 13.3 RPG - 2.0 APG - 0.9 SPG - 0.5 BPG - 45% FG - 82% FT - 2.3 TO

Big Man B:

 20.6 PPG - 14.5 RPG - 1.9 APG - 1.5 SPG - 2.1 BPG - 57% FG - 49% FT - 3.2 TO

Big Man C:

 18.1 PPG - 11.0 RPG - 1.6 APG - 1.5 SPG - 1.2 BPG - 45% FG - 70% FT - 2.7 TO

Big Man C will surprise you, being DeMarcus Cousins of the Sacramento Kings. Big Man A, with his great PPG average and comparable rebounding is my favorite big man, Kevin Love. Big Man B is the underwhelming Dwight Howard. Age is what makes these stats so shocking. Dwight Howard is 26, having played eight seasons, mostly under the tutelage of Stan van Gundy. Love is 23 with four seasons under his belt. DeMarcus Cousins will start his third season next year, at the ripe age of 21. That the stats of the three are comparable is laughable on Howard's part. For someone who dubbed himself Superman, he shows none of the finesse, skill, or poise that the original, Shaquille O'Neal, possessed at his age. Howard's one NBA Finals appearance, mostly a result of great shooting from Hedo Turkoglu, a sad Cavaliers opponent in the East Finals, and a vacuum at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, showed Howard languishing with 15.4 PPG. Your 'franchise center' shouldn't be the third option on the team in big games, and too many times Howard disappears during crunch time.

The reason I bring up Howard's middling performance is for a discussion on leverage. Howard earned his leverage mostly by winning a Slam Dunk contest, which if it was the barometer for NBA success, would have players like Fred Jones, Demond Mason, Harold Miner, and Nate Robinson earning max contracts. His unnecessarily brash chokehold on the Magic franchise is detestable, mainly because the fact that he can't be moved is his own fault. Howard defied normal, traditional, and pragmatic logic by signing a one-year extension to stay in Orlando, after a year of trade rumors, throwing team members under the bus, and inconsistent play. Had he not signed the extension, he would have been a free agent on July 1st, able to sign with whichever team was dumb enough to drop $100 million on him, most likely the New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets. Why he didn't just stay pat and wait is beyond me. If anything, he lost leverage because the extension he signed made him less attractive in terms of trade value. No team wants a player that doesn't want to play for them, and is constantly auditioning for their next contract, much less one that can only rebound, block shots, and dunk.

Now, if rebounding, shot-blocking, and the occasional highlight play are considered leverage to Dwight, then what does that say about him? All I can point to is an oversized ego. Howard has yet to improve his game to the 'superstar' level most people peg him at. With Patrick Ewing on his bench for every year of his career, he hasn't developed as much as an inkling of elite footwork, a jump shot, or consistent post-up game. How is it possible that he didn't pick up anything from one of the most skilled big men of all time? Howard is useless outside of the paint area. Add to that his abysmal free throw percentage, and you have a $20 million per year dud. Not once have I seen Bizarro dominate a game offensively. Never has he demanded the ball in the paint. He is just a physical freak, always surrounded by shooters, allowed to roam the paint mindlessly in search of putback dunks and easy buckets inside ten feet of the bucket. 

Ego is the reason for it. Howard saunters about the court and sidelines like a player who has mastered his craft, which couldn't be further from the truth. Had he any ounce of modesty or humility, Dwight would be embarrassed with how bad of an offensive player he is in lieu of his physical gifts. 

That he's gotten this amount of leverage with such a limited skill set is a miracle. Yet even with all of the leverage Howard has, he most likely won't end up in Brooklyn because of his debilitating salary and the fact that the Magic aren't dumb enough to trade him for peppercorns. One thing that usually comes standard with an oversized ego is a big mouth, which DH12 is known for. If it's not situations like the above infamous press conference with Stan van Gundy, it's his penchant for changing his mind more than a preteen girl with a walk-in closet. It's as if he's trying to make himself hard to deal with. If I'm an NBA general manager, I'd have to ask myself whether his spotty play and toxic attitude are even worth the 20 points, 15 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks he provides. 

Don't get me wrong... the guy's got otherworldly athleticism and potential (whatever 'potential' means these days). But for all of the trouble, you could find two or three players that do all that with fewer headaches. For all Dwight brings to the table, haven't his weaknesses, ego, and push for leverage taken that much more off the table? It's like having a delicious steak dinner, but no table, plates or silverware to eat it with. Howard is, quite honestly, the NBA's most flawed player. He needs a serious reality check, and a new nickname to clear his name in my book.

Dear NBA Superstars

What max contracts?

Can you feel it in the air? Can you? It's almost here. Two weeks from now, NBA junkies like myself will finally get their fix. The player's union finally figured out that any games are better than no games, while the owners jumped off their high horses and compromised. Training camps begin in a week or so, but free agency is the talk of the town. Of all Chris Broussard's 'sources', the rumor that Chris Paul wants to join the Lakers is a fun, but sad one. That said, NBA superstars, I implore you to stay where you are!

In 2008, the Boston Celtics shook the SportsCenter-addicted masses when they crafted the inaugural 'Big 3' on draft night. Fast forward to 2011, and the concept of the Big 3 has been played out more than slow-mo club scenes in rap videos. Shout out to LeBron and Chris Bosh for making the idea a mainstay, but with all due respect, NBA superstars, the constant need for 3 superstars to band together is an inefficient, lame cop-out for franchises who don't know how to build teams. Look no further than my own hometown Knicks. Before the Carmelo Anthony trade, we had a legitimate squad from 1 through 9. Wilson Chandler, Danilo Gallinari and Raymond Felton were perfect pieces for a deep Playoff run. Instead we have a decimated roster full of scrubs like Jared Jeffries and Ronny Turiaf... But wait... We have Carmelo and A'Mare!!! That's still not enough.

NBA superstars, look at the 2011 Dallas Mavericks for the blueprint on how to build a team sans mortgaging your. Dirk Nowitzki was maligned, ridiculed, and castigated for his lack of resolve during the Playoffs, yet on the big stage this year, was surrounded by a cast of role players that was unbreakable. If it wasn't Jason Terry hitting a record number of three-pointers, it was Tyson Chandler (happy trails) providing a resolute defensive presence in the paint, or Shawn Marion being the glue guy with rebounds and floor placement, or Jason Kidd playing the consumate veteran role and giving the Mavericks a second voice of leadership. The Mavericks beat everyone's new favorite team with one superstar and a perfect team built to debunk the new trend. Defense, chemistry and basketball IQ trumped athleticism, potential and hype. They proved that you don't need to buy out the bar to still have a good night.

This is to you Chris Paul and Dwight Howard. This letter is in response to the teams that will bluff a trio of 15 point scorers for one 28 point scorer. This is for GM's like Mitch Kupchak, Pat Riley and the like who have no imagination and less patience. This is for bandwagon fans who gravitate to whichever team has more stars. This is for Chris Broussard and his unreliable 'sources' on every movement in the NBA. But most of all, this is for the NBA. NBA superstars, you've forgotten what it means to stand on your own two. You'd rather team up with your friends than compete against them. Larry Bird and Magic Johnson were friends off the court, but bitter enemies from wire to wire. The same can be said of any of Jordan's compatriots.

That's not to say that this era of the NBA should be one of big stars in small markets. I can understand how disconcerting playing for a bad team as a good player is. Even so, rather than use your celebrity to request a trade, why not try to bring in players you know will mesh with you. LeBron and Wade were doomed because they essentially play the same position and had no one to fill in, not because of defense or any completely objective criteria. As a student of basketball, I recognize that in this talent-filled era of the NBA, winning with no help is impossible. However, that the prospect of building a team has gone out the window is sad. You all should be looking to carry the load instead of teaming up to lessen it. If I'm wrong, then why is the season starting on Christmas, instead of a month and a half ago?

Dear NBA Owners

With a front of players united, how can you guys win?

via Yahoo! Sports:

Before a stunning confrontation between Dwyane Wade and NBA commissioner David Stern in Friday’s labor meeting, Wade, LeBron James and Chris Paul told their Players Association peers that they’re willing to sit out the season rather than make further concessions to the owners, sources told Yahoo! Sports.

Wade, James and Paul were at the forefront of a strong players presence at a Park Avenue hotel for Friday’s contentious bargaining session. In a private union meeting prior to the bargaining session with owners, James kept reiterating to the group of elite players that they shouldn’t give back a greater share of the league’s basketball-related income (BRI) than what they’d already conceded in previous negotiations.

“We’re all together on 53 [percent], right?” James said. “All together on 53 right?”

“LeBron, Wade and Paul want to fight this so hard, they don’t seem scared about missing the season,” one source in the negotiating room told Yahoo! Sports.

James, Wade and Paul believe the owners are bluffing in threatening to ultimately cancel the season to get the changes they want in the collective bargaining agreement, a source in the meeting said. In the meeting with union peers, the three stars declared their willingness to miss games rather than drop down from the 53 percent of BRI the union has proposed to the NBA.

Despite the bold talk out of the sport’s biggest stars, the union privately has expressed a willingness to move further toward ownership this weekend with an understanding that Stern wants desperately to cut a deal with the players and avoid a prolonged work stoppage.

Take a look around, NBA Owners! What do you see on the social landscape these days? I'll give you a second... *plays another game of NBA 2K11* You figure it out yet? ...No? Well, I'll tell you! Social upheaval is on the horizon! Wall Street protestors are trying to make waves against corporate personhood. The GOP is fighting to end government-run social programs in lieu of 'economic austerity'. All over the world, progressive, young citizens are pushing against their conservative governments in the name of social progress. NBA owners, this is the WRONG time to be a non-populist, especially considering how staid the players seem.

As a fan, this season was probably my favorite in recent memory. Not only were the Playoffs exciting and the Finals compelling, the NBA seems poised to birth a new era of stars. Players like John Wall, Blake Griffin, Tyreke Evans, Kevin Durant, Derrick Rose and many of the draft picks from the past four years are either entering their primes or beginning to show dominance. From a standpoint of gameplay, watching the NBA has never been more exciting.

Owners, look at the business landscape of your league at the moment, as well. The NBA just came off financially, its biggest season in decades according to Business Finance Magazine:

Overall revenues are at the highest they have ever been with gate receipts up significantly and team sponsorship sales at an all time high. We are on pace to have our most-watched season ever on TV. Subscriber growth has increased dramatically on NBA TV to 55 million homes in the U.S. We are experiencing double-digit revenue growth this year both in the digital business and internationally.

However, in order to achieve the revenue growth that we have experienced over the last decade, we have had to spend much more to generate the same $1 of revenue than we had to in decades past. As a result, the league overall has been experiencing significant net losses now, which wasn't the case back in the mid 1990s.

So, revenues are at an all-time high and ratings are through the roof, but you guys still insist that your pockets are losing weight. Of you 30 active owners, over half of you are billionaires. I don't think losing out a few million dollars to keep this season whole will hurt your bottom line. And if you decide to continue to lock the players out, you'll only be losing more money. Kobe Bryant, without an NBA season, can sign a deal anywhere in the world and still do what he loves. Jerry Buss, however, stands to lose a lot more if he doesn't cut the Ebenezer Scrooge act.

It's not that I think the players are lining up for the soup kitchen, either. LeBron, D. Wade, A'mare, Chris Bosh and the rest of last year's free agents are still filing receipts from those paychecks. As a matter of fact, I do think that there should be some sort of regulation on how much money a team can spend, so as to curb the ever-popular trend of going over the salary cap to seize a coup on the free agent market. That said, you guys shouldn't be so uncompromising. You guys aren't even playing! It's not your bodies on the line, and even if your team loses, you'll still be paid (as will the players, for that matter). At the same time, if your team wins, you get to stand on the podium with the team and take credit for something that you had no part in other than writing a check.

Populism and the rights of the workers are about to take on a new level of importance again, owners. The fans, whose hard-earned money you depend upon will support the players because they more easily identify with the blue-collar aesthetic of an athlete, not your big-wig greed. If the players continue to stand firm united against your front of trying to scream 'broke,' there is no way you can win. Why not take a page out of the NFL's book and head to the negotiating table ASAP. I guarantee it will be more constructive for you and the players than a winter full of owners slinging mud and NBA players trying to rap...

Steve Jack, you're my man, but this just can't go on...

Dear Mavericks and Heat

Think Dirk wants revenge?

*sings* It's the most wonderful time of the year!!!! ... No seriously, from February until June is my favorite time of the year in sports. It's all basketball, all the time. And aside from the occasional run of baseball highlights that serve to make me pull my hair out, the dunks, crossovers, nail-biting vitories and ridiculous action of the NBA is at a fever pitch. That said, the NBA Finals are here and the storylines couldn't be more ripe for the picking. This year's fight for the Larry O'Brien trophy is much more than your average Finals. Why? Three reasons:

1) You Mavs and Heat players both have had quite different seasons.

On the Heat side, you guys came into the regular season with the entire world watching for you to go 82-0. LeBron's incantation that you guys would win multiple championships placed a high bar on you guys. When you took those nasty losing streaks earlier in the season, were stumbling against the upper echelon teams of the league and were having trouble closing out games, I questioned whether you guys had what it takes. Either way, that was the regular season, and now that you've reached the Finals there's no denying that you guys meant business. After making quick work of the Sixers, defenestrating (look that up) the Celtics and stifling the Bulls, it's clear this is a squad that can compete.

In the case of the Mavs, your team had the same predictions placed on you that you've had for the duration of this decade: ehhh, about 50+ wins, an All-Star Season from Nowitzki and an early 2nd to late 1st round exit. You guys had the reputation around the league of being 'soft', and were pretty much written off coing into the Playoffs. Everyone thought the Blazers would upset you, the Lakers would outclass you and the Thunder would outrun you. But looky here... You guys are in the Finals again, and seem more hungry than ever to shake off the naysayers. You guys didn't have the high standards that the Heat had for their season, and by making it to the Finals are making people reconsider picking against you.

2) This series is going to be not only a grudge match, but also a story of redemption.

We all know why LeBron left Cleveland and why Chrissy Bosh left Toronto: the couldn't do it by themselves. And honestly, who could blame them? After seeing the Cavs and Raptors sleepwalk through the regular season like a confused Resident Evil zombie, I can say that I would've left years ago. That said, I was a stark critic on both of you. I questioned whether having to team up with your friends was for the better or worse, only to realize that no NBA team has ever won the 'ship with just one star on their team. You guys have three, all of whom had somewhat fallen from glory; LeBron with his departure from Cleveland, Bosh with his laconic performance in Toronto and Wade two years removed from having the worst record in the league. For you Heat, this series is about making good on your promises of domination and giving the league a reason to believe the hype.

For you Mavericks, this is like the NBA version of 'The Replacements'. A bunch of rag-tag veterans, cast off from other obscure teams, and Playoff contenders' benches mashed together to make a championship-caliber team. J-Kidd will be the oldest point guard to ever start in the NBA Finals, having been written off as a game-changer after his controversial trade from New Jersey. Shawn Marion and Peja Stojakovic, once perennial All-Stars in Phoenix and Sacramento, have settled into being comfortable role-players who somehow come up with big plays when you need them. Even Jason Terry, once heralded as the next great point guard out of Arizona, has made himself instant offense in Dallas after a disappointing run in Atlanta. Tyson Chandler is the definition of an prep-to-pros bust, but has created a niche for himself as a prime defender. And Finally, Dirk Nowitzki, the 7-footer whose leadership has been questioned constantly since Dallas' Finals collapse in '06 and first round upset in '07, has returned to the promised land. Mavericks, you have been given a second chance at greatness, something that few players are afforded.

3) This is a grudge match.

Never mind that Dallas beat Miami twice this season. This series is a grudge match from 2006 for both of your franchises' faces. Dirk Nowtizki, you know you've got 2006 looming over your head, and Dwyane Wade wants to remind you of it. There won't be any punches pulled here. While this series might not have any of the hatred or genuine dislike for each other that the Heat/Celtics or Spurs/Lakers, make no mistake about it. Both of you are going to come out firing. Neither of you are looking to make friends this Finals, and people are going to be surprised at how physical this series will get from the first tip-off. I wouldn't be surprised if there were mroe than a few technicals, and some extremely chippy play. The American Airlines Arena and Center (you think they planned that?) are going to be madhouses starting Tuesday. I hope you guys are ready. Play on!

Dear Mike Brown

via Sports Illustrated:

The Los Angeles Lakers have reached an agreement in principle with former Cleveland coach Mike Brown to succeed Phil Jackson, the team said Wednesday.

"We've met with Mike and are very impressed with him,'' said a statement issued by the Lakers. "In addition, we have an outline for an agreement in place and hope to sign a contract within the next few days.''

Brown will get a four-year deal worth roughly $18 million, a person with knowledge of the discussions told The Associated Press on Wednesday on condition of anonymity because the Lakers hadn't yet formally hired Brown.

Coaching changes are always a mixed bag in the NBA. We tend to think that when a coach leaves a team, the coach either has nothing more to work for with that franchise. And we tend to think that when a coach is ousted or gets fired, that the team wants nothing more to do with that coach. In the case of the Los Angeles Lakers, who not only were ousted from the NBA Playoffs in a pathetic fashion, but also let the legendary Phil Jackson leave in a blaze of embarrassment, there is a hailstorm of questions surrounding their situation. Kobe Bryant is a year older, with his 15-year career beginning its twilight. Pau Gasol was exposed for his lack of testicular fortitude against the great Dirk Nowitzki. Ron Artest clearly needed a few more sessions with his psychiatrist. Lamar Odom Kardashian was too busy tweeting and doing reality TV to matter, and Andrew Bynum made more waves with his ridiculous flagrant foul than his play on the court. The Lakers were little more than a talented team with a huge identity crisis and too many conflicting personalities.

That said, with your principal agreement to become the head coach of the Lakers, you, Mike Brown, have become the latest coach associated with a fall from glory to get a crack at an already established team. Such a responsibility should be a difficult one, but with your handling of the Cleveland Cavaliers two years ago, I actually have faith in your abilities. Yes, you still have the offensive capabilities of Shaq from the three-point line. Yes, you still have the LeBron-sized shadow of LeBron's departure from Cleveland. But you did have your bright spots in Cleveland. You made it to the Playoffs every year of your tenure. Defensively, your Cavaliers were one of the best defensive teams I've ever seen. I don't even know how you did it, though. The only two stoppers on those squads were Anderson 'Wacka Floppa Flame' Varajao and LeBron. You had an anemic Zydrunas on the court and Mo Williams is a non-factor at times. Let's call a spade a spade. You squeezed more out of those Cleveland Cavaliers teams than Diddy out of Biggie's legacy. It was like you were cooking an 8-course meal out of a burger patty and a few grains of rice.

With those successes, how are you not considered a good coach? In an NBA (and sports) environment where coaches rotate constantly, you were some form of consistency. You crafted the Cleveland Cavaliers from the basement of the NBA to a constant in the headlines. Most of it was due to LeBron, but how many stars fail to succeed because of the coaching staff around them? My guess is more than we think. Additionally, that you could handle the spotlight of the Chosen One might be the best sign for the star-studded circus that is the Lake Show. At the same time, Kobe might do his best spoiled superstar impression (again) and you might have some problems on your hands. I suppose we won't know until next season, if we have one. Either way, you didn't need an invitation, Mike. If the Lakers call you for a coaching vacancy, only a crazy person would turn it down.


PS: One tip, though: Get rid of Steve Blake and Matt Barnes. Those guys are the latest championship stowaways and it's clear they're deadweight. Get real with those two.

Dear 2010-11 NBA Regular Season

First of all, let me say goodbye. As we enter the 2011 NBA Playoffs and the field of teams shrinks from 30 to 16, I can recant on this season thinking it was one of the best and interesting I've seen. You brought us the ongoing story of the Miami Wades, a continued shift in power from West to East, among numerous other plotlines, as well as great play on the court. Additionally, you will end with at least one team relocating in Sacramento, the retirement of Jerry Sloan, and a murky labor situation with your CBA expiring.

Sidenote: Lord, Lord, Lord please let the NBA and NFL get their labor agreements together so that I don't have to sit through a summer of all baseball, all the time...

Secondly NBA Season, I must say I am impressed with your second half. The trade deadline kept the excitement up, putting stars in new places all for the better. (RIP to my boy Deron Williams' legacy, Baron Davis' business aspirations and the Celtics' title hopes) You further cemented the NBA as the best professional league out there, especially considering the NFL's unsure future and how lame baseball has gotten. Thirdly, with the Playoffs continuing this evening, it's time to give out awards for this season. Check out Dear Whoever's superlatives:

Most Valuable Player: Derrick Rose



While Kobe, Dwight Howard, LeBron and D-Wade have all been lynchpins for their respective franchises, no one has done more for their team than Derrick Rose. If you want to talk about a player willing his squad to victory night in and night out, it is the 2008 #1 pick. 25 points per game, 4 rebounds, 7 assists and shooting 10% better from both 3-point range and the foul line. D-Rose elevated his game to a new level while his frontcourt was constantly in flux, with Boozer and Noah both battling injuries all year. Most importantly, Rose has shown that you don't need a triple-headed (talking about YOU, Heat, Celtics and Lakers) monster to win in the NBA... just one superstar.

Defensive Player of the Year: Dwight Howard



As much as I despise Superman Bizarro for his overally corny nature and lack of any semblance of an offensive skill set, I can never deny that Dwight Howard isn't a beast in his own right. The manchild has a penchant for being around the ball when it has the propensity to be vaulted into the stands by his frying pan of a hand. Howard changes shots when he's on the court. Without him, the Magic would be lost defensively and would be run out of the gym. Just take a look at their stats without him. They allow over 98 points without him, and just over 90 with him. If that's not a defensive presence, I don't know what is. Now if only we could get him to call Hakeem and copy his offensive game, too...

6th Man of the Year: Lamar Odom



If I didn't know any better, I'd say that Kardashian tail has some magical powers! If it isn't Kris Humphries finally turning into a serviceable NBA starter while dating Kim, then it's Lamar Odom playing like he finally grew a pair after putting a ring on Khloe's finger. Odom has always been one of the most intriguing players in the league, if not for his unique skill set, then for his lack of production with such a set. En route to another successful Lakers' season, Odom averaged 14 points and 9 rebounds while shooting a career-best 53% from the field... Coming off the bench. And if that isn't enough to seal L.O.'s bid for 6th man of the year, name a better 6th man this year... Jason Terry? Nahh... Big Baby Davis? Get him a binky. No other bench player has contributed more to a winning effort. Thank the Kardashians...

Rookie of the Year: Blake Griffin



There's not much to say about this one. John Wall was the next best option, and he got blown out of the water. If you need any proof as to why Blake is the ROY, just look at the above video again, and pray for Timofey Mozgov's soul.

Most Improved Player: Kevin Love



This was probably the only award that gave me some trouble. I've watched Dorrell Wright go from a first round pick with the "potential to be the next T-Mac" to a benchwarmer on the Miami Heat, to a forgotten high school draftee, to an unsung hero on the Golden State Warriors. Wright jumped from 7 points per game to over 16 points a game, which is incredible. Yet, playing for the Warriors, I think I could put up at least 10 points per game. That said, Kevin Love is the Most Improved Player of the Year. He went from 14 to 20 points per game, while leading the league in double-doubles and rebounds per game, AND playing for probably the worst team in the league. Hell, Kev Love shot 42% from 3 this year! He put up a 30 point and 30 rebound game and put together a streak of 53 double doubles! Kev is exactly what the league needs in terms of a big man, and proved it every time he stepped on the court en route to his first All-Star bid. He not only improved his game, but his team's (limited) game. Hand that man the trophy!

Dear Detroit Pistons

These four might as well not see the court again... No bailout needed

In the wake of this ridiculous spending and fear filled marathon, otherwise known as the trade deadline, the NBA season has picked up A LOT. Carmelo finally did what everyone knew he was going to do, Deron Williams was burned at the stake by the Mormons Jazz, and Jeff Green is now that kid in your neighborhood that moved away. Not even Baron Davis or Mo Williams were safe. To say it was a panicked trade deadline would be tame. It's funny that the team that stayed pat is still worse off that most squads.

If it isn't closing public schools, or boasting in car commercials, it's keeping your team the way it was at the beginning of the season, allowing what was a respectable franchise last decade to turn into a laughingstock. Detroit, for the past four years, I don't think I've seen a team fall so far from grace. You've been in the middle of 'rebuilding' since 2008 when you shipped out Chauncey Billups for Allen 'Turkey' Iverson (double entendre, don't even ask me how). Rodney Stuckey has been decent at best, Tayshaun Prince has been little more than the big fish in a small, moldy pond and long gone are the days when two men named Wallace were the pillars of the Motor City. That said, you've seen better days, but none worse than last Friday when half of your team staged a 'player protest'.

What's funny about the protest is that between Tracy McGrady, Richard Hamilton, Tayshaun Prince, and Chris Wilcox none of these guys have played extensively enough or well enough to warrant any loyalty. Your team has tried to commit to a tenet of keeping around veterans, when it's clear that these players couldn't hack it if they had arms made of axes. Sure McGrady's had a few good games, but what else can you expect from a former scoring champ? The Ben Gordon experiment has proven that combo guards don't work in the Motor City, and Charlie Villanueva has barely showed flashes of brilliance, mostly in meaningless games. To put it shortly, your rebuilding process has NOT gone well.

Ironically, some good has come out of your laconic season. Austin Daye is proving that he wasn't just a no-name WCC player with a highlight tape and Greg Monroe is playing incredibly, making double-doubles look easy. If anyone is worth keeping, it's those two guys. Will Bynum? Expendable. DaJuan Summers? He peaked at Georgetown. Jason Maxiell? He's the poor man's Milsap with no jumper. The rest aren't worth a line. Except for one other person: your coach, John Kuester. Kuester has proven that trying to turn a bunch of former somebodies into 20 minute per game rotation players will NOT work. He's completely mismanaged your team and you know it. Joe Dumars might as well coach this team himself. I'm sure he could help what good pieces you do have grow some cojones before the rest of the East becomes a whirlpool of talent again.

The trade deadline came and went, and you guys stayed pat with a mediocre team. Even though the CBA is hanging by a thread, Detroit, you still have a chance to bring this team back to relevance. A) You need to drop John Kuester immediately. Everything about that man screams pushover in the locker room and it's obvious with how erratically you play on the court. B) Get rid of the old, dead weight. That includes Hamilton, T-Mac, Prince and Wilcox. You can't start rebuilding for the next dynasty if you have leftovers from the first one. C) Make sure you keep Austin Daye and Greg Monroe. Those two look like a dynamic duo in the making, just waiting for Austin Rivers a great point guard to take the reigns. No, it won't be easy. No, it won't be quick. But it's better than believing you can recreate another Bad Boys replica with a bunch of Grumpy Old Men, especially ones that call sitting out of practice for a day 'protest'. Long live the car industry, because basketball isn't happening for a while...

Dear Carmelo Anthony

God help the team that gets you...

For the past month, there are a few topics that have been beaten to death and cremated in the sports world. But one stands above them all, Carmelo. The continued drama of where you'll end up is starting to put me to sleep. Every time you turn around, there's a new rumor. 2 weeks ago it was the Nets, this week it could've been the Knicks, and now it's the Lakers. What gives? I feel like you should say something to clear this up, especially since your team isn't really backing you up. I suppose that's what happens when the spotlight is on you... You clam up.

I can't help but be reminded of all of the times you choked under pressure, or failed to show up. Your teams have always been good, and you've been considered a superstar, but this year it seems like you're not even in the game. Earlier in the season, with Chauncey Billups hobbled by a broken wrist, the Nuggets seemed flat. Although you were able to get to a record of 31-25 coming into the All-Star Break, that's only good enough for 4th in the Northwest Division and 8th in the West. Okay, so the West is stacked... So what? Aren't you a superstar?

It pains me to see all of this speculation of you making the move to New York because teaming up with Stoudemire might screw both of you up. It would be the joining of two unstoppable but unimportant forces in the NBA. Both you and A'Mare are defensive liabilities. You never guard the best player on the other team, much less make defensive plays when your team needs it (see: Paul Pierce in NY). When Kobe comes to town, why's Aaron Afflalo guarding him? When you guys take a trip to Miami, should Gary Forbes be tasked with guarding LeBron? These are questions that've plagued you through your career, even with the Playoff runs and your development of a masterful offensive game.

Speaking of offense, you and A'Mare are considered two of the best offensive players in the league, but never seem to score when it matters. A week or so ago, you scored an NBA season high of 50 against the Rockets, which is incredible if you completely ignore the fact that you lost! You managed to drop 50 points and lose, Melo. Come on, son. You didn't even have any assists. That, oh Brooklyn native, is the definition of a meaningless scorer. Yes, you came out and dropped 42 2 games later in a win, but you weren't even in the game to hit the game winner, having fouled out. The superstar doesn't do that. The superstar is the guy everyone is scared of with the game on the line. I certainly wouldn't be afraid of you if I were another NBA defender. It just goes to show you that no matter how good of a player you are, if you don't have that x-factor, that umph, that extra push, it doesn't matter.

Melo, you probably will end up a Knick, if not by the end of the week then by the end of July (*crosses fingers for CBA revision*). While it's exciting from a fantastical standpoint, basketball wise, it will be business as usual for you. Yet no one talks about that. The media is hyped up in the formation of another multiple-headed monster in the league, and rightfully so. It will probably be that same media that crucifies you if and/or when you and A'Mare choke inevitably. It's okay though. You can always take solace that you're from Brooklyn. No one can take where you came from away from you. Only YOU can destroy your own legacy, though. Hopefully you don't bring the Knicks down with you too...

Dear LeBron James (re: Contraction)

You wouldn't have been talking that contraction mess if you were still in Cleveland...

via ESPN:

LeBron James welcomes the New Jersey Nets and the Minnesota Timberwolves as part of the NBA, and said that he never intended to advocate contraction in recent comments he made about the league's "watered down" talent level compared to the 1980s.

"That's crazy, because I had no idea what the word 'contraction' meant before I saw it on the Internet," James said after the Miami Heat's practice Monday. "I never even mentioned that. That word never even came out of my mouth. I was just saying how the league was back in the '80s and how it could be good again. I never said, 'Let's take some of the teams out.' "

James found himself Monday in a position of yet again having to clarify some controversial comments. On Thursday, he told reporters before the Heat's game against the Phoenix Suns that he would like to see more stars playing together instead of them being spread out throughout the league.

He also made specific references to the Nets and Timberwolves, including promising forward Kevin Love, in reference to the number of premier players toiling along with struggling teams. James was portrayed in some reports as advocating contraction and the loss of NBA jobs at a time when the league and players' association are haggling over a new collective bargaining agreement. James, who was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week on Monday, said he was speaking only in hypothetical terms when he suggested what it might be like to remove Love, the league's leading rebounder, from the struggling Timberwolves, or to see some of the Nets' better players on teams that could contend for a championship.

"Imagine if you could take Kevin Love off Minnesota and add him to another team and you shrink the [league]," James said Thursday. "Looking at some of the teams that aren't that great, you take Brook Lopez or you take Devin Harris off these teams that aren't that good right now and you add him to a team that could be really good. Not saying let's take New Jersey and let's take Minnesota out of the league. But hey, you guys are not stupid, I'm not stupid, it would be great for the league.

I always cringe when athletes begin trying to wax philosophical about the business side of sports, especially basketball and football players. For the most part, these fellows accomplished nothing in the way of education, and what few who do are not in positions high enough to warrant an opinion. Such is your case, oh verbose King James. LeBron, I'll admit it, most people were wrong about the Heat. You guys are doing pretty well right now, though the season is still young. Your move to the Miami Wades has turned into the ultimate sports media frenzy, with the sports world hinging on every play you make and every word you speak. The latter (your words), as profound as they may be when dealing with basketball, need to be chosen more carefully when dealing with off-court issues.

LeBron, you and the Heat have indeed made it so that no one can compete unless they begin stockpiling stars in a soccer-esque power struggle. You're essentially the Barca of basketball. Teams like the Timberwolves and Nets (just to keep your example going) that have promising talent but no superstars are constantly being blasted. While you guys may have highlights for days, your team is eventually going to get boring to watch, much like the league you imagined after contraction. What grinds my gears the most about your statement is that you didn't even know what contraction means! C'mon son... Didn't Gloria ever tell you not to use a word if you don't know the definition? Yes, you would've caught a little bit of crap if you admitted to not knowing, but that's better than making a base statement, then having to retract it.

Just because the league is now a cakewalk for you and Chris Wade Bosh, it doesn't mean certain teams shouldn't have a fighting chance. Lord knows you and your boys were some of those players who probably would've wasted their careers if you didn't show up at D-Wade's doorstep. And who's to say that Kevin Love won't turn into an unstoppable force (unlikely, but a necessary comparison) by the end of the season? Who's to say Devin Harris and Brook Lopez won't develop a chemistry like Magic and Kareem (also unlikely)? Who's to say the Nets won't sweep you guys (highly unlikely, as well) in the Playoffs? The point is, LeBron, that you're IN the league. Talking about the league as if you're an GM isn't your place. Play the game and leave the business to Jay-Z and Prokhorov, unless it has to do with sneakers or Dr. Dre commercials.

Lastly, Bron, the league is far from 'watered-down'. For the first time in a while, I can say that every team has considerable talent. Maybe not every team is capable of running others off the court every game like your team, but on any given night, I guarantee Kevin Love and Mike Beasley (who's killing) can shock you guys. This is the NBA, LeBron. The same league that the 2007 Golden State Warriors roughed up the #1 seed Mavericks... The same league where guys like Chauncey Billups can go from a bust to Finals MVP... The same league where even the most physically gifted player (coughcoughDwightHowardcoughcough) can be shut down by a role player. Don't forget that, Bron Bron. Fans love underdogs just as much as they love your highlights, and every underdog has his day, whether you see it coming or not. Maybe if you guys sweep the Playoffs, you can talk. If you don't, though, all that contraction crap you were talking will be just as 'watered-down' as the Miami Heat without their three-headed monster...

Dear Amar'e Stoudemire

This time last year, the New York Knicks were 8-16, and in the midst of yet another season ready for the toilet. D'Antoni's defensive deficiencies were killing the team and there really didn't seem to be a leader in the locker room. David Lee was having another All-Star season, Al Harrington was still underwhelming and Tracy McGrady was the most expensive bench rider in the league. Needless to say, the Knickerbockers were in dire straits, with their sights focused more on the summer of 2010 and the LeBron-athon more than the Playoffs. We all know what happened. LeBron took his talents to the Miami Wades with Chris Bosh, and your name was next up. I think you always knew you wanted to be in a big market like New York. That LeBron eschewed the opportunity opened the door for you to be the wrecking ball you are right now.

Amar'e, when you announced that the New York Knicks would be signing you, I secretly prayed that it was a 2-for-1 deal and that Steve Nash was coming too. Your talent's always been a bright spot, but your attitude and ability to be 'the Man' have always come into question. The past two games against the Celtics and Heat brought those issues right back to the forefront.

My beef with you, STAT, is that with all of that athletic ability, you've made no strides on the defensive side of the ball since you've gotten to the league. Yes, you block shots and get a steal here and there. But at the end of the game, when the team needs a stop, much like the game with Boston, you can't be counted on. And I'm not talking about the last possession either. There were times that you let Kevin Garnett, and (in the Heat game) Chris Bosh make you look worse than LeBron's hairline. Your footwork sucks, you don't make good rotations and rarely do you crash the boards like you should on defense. It makes your game incomplete. As a matter of fact, I think if we fused you and Dwight Howard (Dragon Ball Z-style) I think we'd have the greatest big man ever on our hands. That just goes to show you how offensively gifted you've gotten.

Defensive mishaps are sooooo much worse in slow motion...


Amar'e, I won't lie, you've injected a hell of a lot of energy in to the Garden this season. For the first time in years, I think people are interested in Knicks basketball without it being a punchline to a joke. Your play is a big part of that, but won't mean anything in the long run if you don't round your game out. Maybe D'antoni is to blame for your lack of defense. Maybe you sincerely have tried to become a better defender. scoring 30 points per game doesn't mean a damn thing if you give up 31 and the game in the process...

The Best Beards in Basketball

During my random sessions of internet surfing, I stumbled upon the above video for the second time. Baron Davis' 'Boom's Beard' product was a serious reminder that facial hair can work miracles not only in the NBA, but in real life. Being a baby-faced individual, my next thought was... If I could have any beard in the NBA who's would it be? Who's follicles would be burly enough to boost one's game on and off the court? Today, Dear Whoever examines the best beards in basketball, and the players underneath the scruff.


LeBron James
How could we start this list without the King? Bron Bron has been the reigning best player in basketball, and coincidentally the best beard in basketball, which is as burly (pause) as he is. King James' facial follicles take on a life of their own at times, as does his game.


DeShawn Stevenson and Drew Gooden
Speaking of LeBron, his arch-nemesis DeShawn Stevenson has since departed from the Washington Wizards team that became Public Enemy #1 in Cleveland. Ironically, his best friend in the league, Drew Gooden was on that team. The two ballers decided to have a 'beard battle', where the first person to shave lost. Stevenson won, but his Wizards were trounced by Gooden's squad, the Cavaliers, and Bron Bron. I guess not being able to feel one's face, as Stevenson likes, doesn't give an advantage...


Rip Hamilton
People wonder why Rip Hamilton's motor never stops running on the court, and why he's almost impossible to keep up with. My explanation: the beard. In the traditional Philly beard mold, Rip has had the scruffy man look going on 6 seasons. After breaking his nose and being forced to wear a protective mask, Rip kept the mask and the beard that accompanied it. Now the three of them are inseparable., much like Rip from the Pistons...


Deron Williams
If there was ever an extremely precise point guard in the NBA, it would be Deron Williams. The man can stop on a dime and drop a few dimes on the hardwood too. It's no surprise that D-Will's beard looks like it was laser-etched and filled in using the most vibrant of hair dyes. D-Will's beard looks so perfect, it almost looks fake...


Honorable Mention: Rasheed Wallace
Sheed needs to be in some kind of hall of fame for being a trailblazer in basketball hairstyles. Not only did he make the random and inexplicable bald spot a trend, he made being ridiculously scruffy a fashion statement, starting with that beard of his. Nothing says 'technical foul' like a beard that looks like a pair of scissors hasn't touched them in years. Here's to you, Sheed, and your beard...

Dear Cleveland Cavalier Fans

Keeping in line with a penchant for trying to be a little less negative and a little more positive with my letters, I almost didn't write this. Then I realized the purpose of writing these letters isn't to be nice or to get people on my side. It's to display a valid argument and (hopefully) show people why that argument is valid. That said, I came upon this video amidst my random internet binges, and automatically burst out in a fit of good old-fashioned (and apparently healthy) belly laughs.

Really, Cleveland fans?? This is what you guys have resorted to as some ridiculous ploy to feel better about what transpired over the summer in the LeBron-athon? That's pitiful. Yes, LeBron could have gone about his move down south in a more tactful manner. Yes, basketball's coup of the century left your team decimated with a raggedy bunch of Robins. Yes, LeBron's commercial thumbed it's nose at all of the hate spewed towards the City of Rock. Even so, it's a new season!!! You guys have new uniforms, new coaches, and a few new players on the roster. Let me repeat: THIS IS A NEW SEASON! LeBron is long gone and looks like a kid in a candy store taking the court with Wade, Bosh and company. He's moved on, as should you. And it's funny that your team hasn't even played Miami yet. I'm thinking the score differential might be up there in the 40s, if not more. You guys should know better than anyone that an angry LeBron is a scary LeBron...

I understand the ailing of a city who's 3 sports teams don't even amount to LeBron's billfold. I understand how betrayed you felt in July. But, there has to be a point at which you decide that this is a new beginning. Videos like this will only enhance the curse that LeBron's shadow is casting on your city, and serve to make your city all the more bitter, and unhappy. No, Cleveland, you shouldn't forget what happened. However, does it really help to keep flinging trash at LeBron's name at this point? Making hateful videos isn't going to bring the man back, or make your team any less boring on paper (I see not one All-Star on that roster). As a matter of fact, rather than making hating videos and being upset, maybe you guys should be trying to train up another crop of LeBrons. Yeah, that's it... Start pushing your kids into basketball, so that maybe one day, one of them can leave the city's basketball team in shambles bring a championship to Cleveland...

LeBron James - Nike 'RISE' Commercial

So... LeBron James has essentially thumbed his nose at the world, especially those talking greasey about him after his announced move to the Sunshine State. Nike clearly has put a lot of marketing dollars into King James. Though they could give two flying Cavaliers about where Bron Bron suits up, it's refreshing to see them take a tongue-in-cheek approach to the controversy. James has tweeted numerous times that he's got a bone to pick with all of the haters and hate that's been flung his way. With the NBA season looming (check out my NBA Season Previews if you haven't already), it's only right that the best player in the world right now would end his silence on such a grand scale. Of course, there still are 82 games to prove the move's worth, but with such a profound statement and the way James has been playing in the preseason, it would be unwise to bet against the King and his court. Check out the best Nike commercial I've seen in a while...

2010-2011 NBA Season Preview: Western Conference

Yes, people. It is my favorite time of the year. Football season is in full swing, baseball season is finally coming to a close and yes, the basketball season is upon us. We're well in store for another season of dunks, jumpers and great NBA action, and Dear Whoever is here to sift through the clutter for you.

Our season preview continues in the Western Conference, where the Lakers have reigned supreme, but new teams are beginning to show their worth. Let's check out the 8 best teams in the West, who's up, who's down and who's got the juice. Hit the jump to see them:

MORE -->


Until someone knocks them off, this is Kobe and the Lakers' world... We just live in it.

1. Los Angeles Lakers
I said it in the Eastern Conference post, and I'll say it for the West. To be the best, you've got to beat the best. And quite simply put, they ARE the best. The Los Angeles Lakers have two top-10 players on their roster in Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol, different scoring options in Artest, Odom, and Bynum, and tremendous depth coming off the bench. They added Matt Barnes, Theo Ratliff and Steve Blake to solidify their rotation, and essentially have 10 players in that rotation who could start anywhere in the NBA. Not to mention, the guru Phil Jackson is back for another threepeat attempt (this will be his 4th if the Lake show wins the ship this year, which is incredible). The Los Angeles Lakers are the team that everyone is aiming at, whether or not they think they have a chance. The rest of the Western Conference is clearly a few steps behind L.A. in terms of talent and a system that wins championships. If they don't end the season at #1 in the West, it will be because the team collapsed, which is highly unlikely with the cast of characters on that sideline...


What does it take for a team to go from Young Guns to Title Contenders? Ask Durant and the Thunder...

2. Oklahoma City Thunder

You might wonder why I'm placing the Oklahoma City Thunder at the #2 position in the West. If you saw the way Kevin Durant and company played the Lakers last year in the first round of the Playoffs, you'd know why. They came within seconds of forcing a Game 7 against the eventual champs, and had a lot of people shocked with their performance. The Thunder have built a roster the old-fashioned way: through the draft. The organization has built around Durant, Jeff Green and Russell Westbrook by adding quality pieces around them, and a coaching staff that stresses discipline for the team. James Harden is looking like another steal in the draft. The Thunder also have two underrated big men in Nick Collison and Serge Ibaka. Obviously, the centerpiece of this team is the phenom, Kevin Durant. If he continues to improve, then the Thunder will be head and shoulders above a lot of teams in the Western Conference, simply because of his MVP-caliber talent. The scoring champ has all the tools and complementary players he needs to knock off any of the West's (former) powers, and make the Thunder legitimate contenders.


Old man jokes aside, is there any squad as consistent as the Spurs? Duncan, Manu, Parker and crew are aging like fine wine, and have some new grapes to add to the fermentation.

3. San Antonio Spurs

The San Antonio Spurs have been the ideal portrait of consistency over the past decade and frequently the recipients of those 'old guy' jokes because they never seem to die. That said, over the latter half of the decade, the Spurs have actually gotten a lot younger. Guys like George Hill, DeJuan Blair, and 2010 draftee James Anderson all look like they'll be able to contribute to the wiley veteran core of the Spurs. The one caveat for the Spurs is whether they'll be able to fight off the injury bug this year. Both Manu and Tony Parker were out for substantial time with those nagging injuries that seem to always take the offseason to heal. From the lack of noise they made in the preseason it would be easy to count the Spurs out, but when have the Spurs every been about the sizzle more than the steak? Gregg Popovich's teams always seem to be prepared when that 1st out of 82 games start, and Tim Duncan is as efficient as ever, with the once-perrenial MVP candidate gearing down his game and getting more fundamental than ever. Are the Spurs as good as the Lakers? Probably not. But we all know San Antonio's only prerogative is the postseason, where they've been for the entire decade. It's for that reason they're at number 3.


The window is closing quickly for Dirk and the Mavs. Can they capitalize on solid veteran role players or will they crumble in the Playoffs again?

4. Dallas Mavericks

Dallas has been my favorite time for a while now, but has always been the butt of the choke jokes. The Mavs have perfected the art of reloading the same roster by trying to plug different players around their MVP candidate Dir Nowitzki. Dirk is the picture of consistency, and Jason Kidd has aged like a fine wine, with improving 3-point range and his cerebral play-making. That said, it's hard to see Dallas beating the three teams above them consistently. They bring back Caron Butler, Jason Terry, Shawn Marion and Brendan Haywood for another crack at the West title. That team would have been amazing... 4 years ago. I think Mark Cuban has gotten a little too content with scouring the free agent wire and trade circuit, rather than building his team the old fashioned way. While the Mavs have considerable talent in rookie Dominique Jones, and their young point guard Roddy Beabois, they don't have the firepower to contend and their championship window is closing faster than Caron's Mountain Dew addiction. It won't be enough to be just good for Dallas. If they want to beat the Lakers and the other titans of the league, it's going to take great defense and mental fortitude, which the Mavs have lacked every year since Dwyane Wade took it to them in 2006.


Blake Griffin is for real. B-Diddy looks like he's 26 again. Can the other L.A. team turn a decade full of frowns upside down?

5. Los Angeles Clippers

This is my surprise pick in the West. I said it. The Los Angeles Clippers will be a PLAYOFF TEAM in 2011. And that's for one reason only: Blake Griffin. The Oklahoma rookie is back from the knee injury that made him miss his true rookie season and has looked dominant in the preseason. Griffin doesn't look like a man who's had knee surgery, catching alley-oops from a rejuvenated Baron Davis. Speaking of B-Diddy, he always seems to have these two year spurts where he looks like an All-Star, and this year seems like the beginning of another of those spurts. When I look at the Clippers though, I see a deep roster, with Chris Kaman (most underrated player in the league), Eric Gordon, Craig Smith, DeAndre Jordan, and Randy Foye all looking to contribute. Add to that, they've got some serious young talent in rookies Al-Farooq Aminu, Eric Bledsoe and Willie Warren. I think if the Clippers can rally around Griffin, they're going to surprise a lot of teams. If they can get consistent production from the wings, then the Clippers will be very hard to defend and even harder to prepare for. Look out, because Blake Griffin will put you favorite player on a poster by the end of the year, while the Clips make it to the postseason as the 5th best in the West.


Chauncey: I know what you did last summer...
Melo: I know what I'm about to do this summer!

6. Denver Nuggets

The Denver Nuggets are in a serious state of flux. With all of the speculation around Carmelo Anthony and whether he will even be a Nugget, there's a silent anxiety around this organization. Of course, Chauncey Billups, Nene, JR Smith, Kenyon Martin, Ty Lawson and Chris Andersen will do what they've been doing, but it seems like this team was a chicken with its head cut off without George Karl. If his presence is what's holding them together, then I have little faith that the Nuggets will make it out of the first round. They added Al Harrington, who is a more athletic and streakier Linas Kleiza, as well as a rejuvenated Shelden Williams, but neither of those players are true game-changers for a roster set in its ways. The Nuggets will win and lose as Carmelo's success comes, which isn't the way to go, especially in the West. The bottom teams in this conference are too good to take a night off, which Denver does a LOT. Yes, the Nuggets will make the playoffs, but I feel like they're the West's version of the Atlanta Hawks, a team that didn't do much to improve.


The Jazz now belong to Deron Williams (and his beard)... Can the addition of Al Jefferson make a difference in Salt Lake City?

7. Utah Jazz

I've said this for years now, and will stand by it until someone unequivocally proves me wrong: Deron Williams is the best point guard in the league. Chris Paul only gets the nod from the world because Williams plays in one of the smallest markets in the league. The Utah Jazz are his team, now that Carlos 'undersized center' Boozer has moved on to Chicago. That said, his departure opened up a spot for Al Jefferson to make his mark in Salt Lake City. Jefferson has been waiting to break out, and now that he has a proven point man in Williams to deliver the ball to him, his game should jump to a new level. The Jazz retained the services of Mehmet Okur, whose jump shooting as a big man should open up a lot of space for Williams and Jefferson to work. Add to that a healthy Kirilenko as the defensive glue, and you've got a trademark Jerry Sloan squad. Sloan is synonymous with squeezing the most out of his players through disciplined play and clutch defense, so the lack of 'star' players doesn't bother me as much as the lack of depth. The Jazz, while adding promising rookie Gordon Hayward, and veterans Raja Bell and Earl Watson are an injury away from disaster. Any hits they take will hit their wins and losses right in the stomach.


Yao Ming's foot should be the next body part to get the Twitter treatment.. Doesn't mean he'll be able to be the centerpiece that the Rockets need...

8. Houston Rockets

This last spot was a toss-up for me because the bottom half of the West is that muddled. The Rockets are eighth in the West because they have great depth. Yao Ming is far from a sure thing at center because of his nagging injuries, but they've got a solid backup in Brad Miller. Kevin Martin is the same way, but the Rockets have guys like Chase Budinger, Courtney Lee, and Shane Battier, who can provide the same production. In fact, Aaron Brooks is just about the surest thing on this team. Brooks, last year's Most Improved Player, is a poised offensive threat with a deadly stroke from the three, which makes up for his diminutive size. Behind them, Houston has solid role players like Chuck Hayes, Luis Scola and Kyle Lowry. These parts are all good, but not great, which puts them ahead of teams like Sacramento, Phoenix and Golden State, but way behind the other 7 teams on this list. I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't make the playoffs, but they're definitely the last good team left. Whether or not they can make noise in the West is dependent on Yao Ming's foot, and nothing more...

2010-2011 NBA Season Preview: Eastern Conference

Yes, people. It is my favorite time of the year. Football season is in full swing, baseball season is finally coming to a close and yes, the basketball season is upon us. We're well in store for another season of dunks, jumpers and great NBA action, and Dear Whoever is here to sift through the clutter for you.

Our season preview starts in the Eastern Conference, where there's been a huge shift in power since last year. Let's check out the 8 best teams in the East, where they stand and who's got the juice out East Hit the jump to see them:

Next -->>





Don't know what you guys are looking up to... You're the bests of the East until proven otherwise.

1. Boston Celtics
Yes, I said it. The Boston Celtics are the best team in the Eastern Conference at the beginning of the season. To be concise, you're not the man until you beat the man, and no other team in the Eastern Conference could dethrone the Celts last year on another run to the Eastern Conference crown. Yes, the Big 3 is older. Yes, Shaq and Jermaine O'Neal's careers are surviving through a respirator. No, Rajon Rondo will not have a jump shot by season's end. All of those do not matter. The Celtics have one of the best defenses in the league, and have added major depth through free agency, signing Delonte "Yo Mama", the two O'Neals, and scorer Von Wafer. Not to mention, they've still got Kendrick Perkins (underrated defensively; he kept Dwight Howard in check), as well as drafting sharpshooter Luke Harangody, and Doc Rivers on the sidelines. Everyone's waiting for the Celtics to drop off. They shouldn't hold their breath.


It takes more than 3 players to win a championship, but with these three, does it even matter who else is on the roster?

2. Miami Heat
Yes, yes, y'all. The story of the offseason. The Monstarr-esque triumvirate (look it up) put together by Pat Riley in the greatest coup in NBA history, Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh will most definitely inspire fear in most teams before they even step onto the court. What makes this squad even scarier though is the role players they've accrued in this same summer. Along with holding onto Udonis 'the Man in Florida' Haslem, the Heat pretty much got Zydrunas Ilgauskus with LeBron, signed veterans Eddie House, Juwan Howard, Jamaal Magloire, and picked up Mike Miller. Miller is definitely the most underrated pickup of the offseason. With the amount of attention the Heat's Big 3 will get, Miller is going to find himself open... A LOT. He should shoot a ridiculous percentage with both James and Wade feeding him the ball. Add two promising rookies in DeSean Butler and Dexter Pittman to that equation and you've got a solid rotation around Wade, Bosh and James. The Heat are going to be scary good. We won't put them ahead of the Celtics yet, for posterity's sake, but I'm sure Boston can feel Miami right behind them.


Can Boozer bring some boom back to the Bulls, or will he just bust?

3. Chicago Bulls
The Chicago Bulls were a major player in the LeBron, Bosh and Wade sweepstakes, but only managed to come up with Carlos Boozer, which isn't a bad consolation prize in the least bit. Carlos Boozer joins a Chicago Bulls team that overachieved simply off grit, hard work and great defense. Bringing Boozer into a frontcourt with Joakim Noah is going to pay dividends immediately for Boozer, who's coming from a Utah team where he usually played the center. Not anymore. Noah's presence allows Boozer to move back to his natural 4 spot, where he will fluorish, even if he'll be out for a little while with a broken hand The Bulls also have this really good guard... I think his name is... Derrick Rose! Rose is already a phenom, and according to NBA reports, has been working on his jumper consistently over the summer, which should only make him more deadly of a scorer. The Bulls also have talented role-players in Luol Deng, Taj Gibson, and free agent signee Kyle Korver. This Bulls team looks really good on paper, and should jump a few spots this season.


LeBron's going to take much more than the basketball away from you if you don't work on those post moves, Dwight...

4. Orlando Magic

That's right. The Orlando Magic are only the 4th-best team in the Eastern Conference simply because they didn't do much to get better over the summer. Don't get me wrong. They're not bad, at all. Yet, Stan Van Gundy's squad looks eerily similar to the teams of the past two years that were trounced in the Playoffs. Of course they've got Dwight Howard, who's spent another summer 'working' on his post moves. Yes they've got Vince Carter, who's another year older and another year weaker. And yes they've got Rashard Lewis, whose game has regressed further and further during his stay in Orlando. Looking at the Magic, the only bright spot I can see is Jameer Nelson getting better. Nelson was unstoppable during the Playoffs last year, lighting up Raymond Felton and Mike Bibby on the way to the Eastern Finals, and will look to take a greater role in Orlando this year. The Magic added Quentin Richardson, whose weight will balloon up again now that he can camp out on the three point line, and Chris Duhon, who will take his inefficacy elsewhere after two terrible years in New York. Will it be that same old Magic that wins in the regular season, but folds in the Playoffs? We will see.



Scary combination when those two are playing at their best in the backcourt, but the front court will be what drives this team to the Playoffs.

5. Washington Wizards
The first true surprise on this list, the Washington Wizards, have put last year's abysmal season behind them and come back with a new face to complement the old face of the franchise. John Wall is the REAL DEAL. Anyone who's watched him play over the summer or in the preseason can see how nasty this man is. Now that he's paired up with a reformed Agent Zero, it will be interesting to see what the ceiling is for Wall's phenomenal talent. That's not even the main reason I have the Wiz up so high. The real reason is their frontcourt. The Wizards' two big men, Andray Blatche and JaVale McGee are STARS in the making. Blatche reminds me of Kevin Garnett with his ability to score and JaVale McGee is simply a freak of nature at 7-1 with guard-like leaping ability. The Wizards also solidified their rotation, bringing in Yi JianLian, Kirk Hinrich and Al Thornton to complement Josh Howard, Nick Young and Hilton Armstrong. When the Wizards do shock the Eastern Conference, don't say I didn't tell you so.


Jennings might not even know how to say Bogut's last name. Their chemistry on the court certainly hasn't taken a hit...

6. Milwaukee Bucks

If there's one team in the NBA that no one is talking about, but really should be talking about, it is the Milwaukee Bucks. After a promising rookie season, the Bucks point guard Brandon Jennings is poised to make more noise, but the centerpiece to this team is their oft-underrated center Andrew Bogut. I will go as far as to say that Bogut is the best center in the Eastern Conference. More skilled and consistent than Dwight Howard, had Bogut not been injured in last year's Playoffs against Atlanta, the Bucks would have a lot more buzz around them. John Salmons is as good as ever, using a very Paul Pierce-esque game to score efficiently, adding to their allure. Those players aren't the only reasons I have the Bucks up here. Scott Skiles brought in a host of solid, wiley veterans to complement those three like Drew Gooden, Corey Maggette and Keyon Dooling. Let's also not forget that the Bucks have a shooter by the name of Michael Redd, who will get some minutes, even as he works with no knees. The Bucks have a team full of understated go-getters and it shows in how well they play under the radar. Hopefully that won't be the case, this year.


Those frowns won't be turning upside down for a while if the Hawks don't get some new blood on that roster...

7. Atlanta Hawks
There is always one team at the beginning of the NBA season scheduled for a huge drop-off from the success of previous seasons. That team is the Atlanta Hawks, simply because they did NOTHING to get better over the offseason. Wait... They actually did make one move: signing Joe Johnson to a 6-year $120 million head-scratcher of a deal. Now, this wouldn't be so bad if Johnson hadn't already reached the ceiling of his potential at age 29. As a Hawk, yes Johnson's been successful, but the Arkansas product has a knack for shrinking in big games that has cost Atlanta dearly. Not to mention, the Hawks have the same undersized frontcourt and lack of playmaking options that have plagued them for years. Al Horford, Marvin Williams and Josh Smith are already what they are going to be in their NBA careers, while Mike Bibby continues to be a liability on defense and little more than a three point-chucking paperweight on offense. Jamal Crawford isn't happy with his contract, and though exciting, won't be the deciding factor for the Hawks. Atlanta is the same team that Boston blew out in Game 7 of 2007 and that Orlando swept last year. A coaching change with no personnel moves will ensure that, and the Hawks have slipped accordingly.


A'Mare can't be the only Knick to show up if Donnie Walsh's exit strategy from Isaiah's debacle is going to work...

8. New York Knicks
Yes, I said it Knick fans. The New York Knicks will make the playoffs in 2011. However, that is not because they are the 8th best team in the Eastern Conference. It is because no other team under them seems to have the potential to vault them into this 8th spot. The Knicks have one of the most exciting, yet risky, rosters on paper. Adding A'Mare Stoudemire this summer was tantamount to a shot of adrenaline to a dead basketball scene in New York. Bringing in Anthony Randolph, Ronny Turiaf and Kelenna Azubuike is the bandaging to a wounded spirit. And signing Raymond Felton... Well, it's a start. The point is, the Knicks are finally building a nucleus of talent that ISN'T the debacle of players that Isaiah Thomas tried to pass off as a team. The Knickerbockers should be exciting to watch under the tutelage of Mike D'Antoni, and have some intriguing pieces in swingman Wilson Chandler, sharpshooter Danilo Gallinari, combo guard Toney Douglass, and the Russian center that came out of nowhere, Timofey Mozgov. Whether or not the team will be able to string together some wins in D'Antoni's high offense, no defense system is still an unknown. They're still better than the Nets, Bobcats, Sixers, Cavs, Pistons, Pacers and Raptors, though.

Whew... There you have it people; a rundown of the potential Playoff-bound teams in the Eastern Conference. I hope there's no love lost for the seven squads that didn't make it. The Eastern Conference is stacking up again, much like the West was doing in the earlier part of the decade. Check back in the next few days for more NBA posts, including the Western Conference preview, my picks for this year's awards and a few more surprises. I LOVE THIS GAME!!!

Dear Team USA

There was the Dream Team in 1992. Then there was the No Self-Esteem Team in 2004. Then there was the Redeem Team in 2008. Now in 2010, we've got the Dreaming to Dream Team representing the United States in the World Basketball Championship. I call you guys that because right now, all you can do is dream about achieving the same success of some of the other mega-teams that the US has assembled for FIBA competition.

First of all, all of the top-tier players who should be playing in the FIBAs are out either with injury or lack of testicular fortitude. That first reason can be excused, I guess, but the second one is a bunch of pollycock, especially for those of you players who really haven't proved anything yet. From Kobe Bryant to Chris Paul to LeBron to D-Wade, none of the players who made USA Basketball dominant in the Olympics are playing. Dwight Howard p*ssied out for lord knows what reason, while LaMarcus Aldridge, A'Mare and the Lopez twins are all trying to preserve their bodies, leaving the squad with Tyson Chandler as the lone center on the squad. I don't know about you guys, but Tyson couldn't put the ball in the basket if it was already halfway down. Sure he's a good defender, but not much else. The big man in international basketball is used more as an offensive weapon away from the basket, so Tyson renders himself useless on defense, having to guard 7 footers with jump shots and handles. That doesn't bode well for a victorious campaign...

Second of all, the only truly unstoppable player on the squad is Kevin Durant. KD 35 has been the only consistent and aggressive player in the few exhibitions that you have played. He's had to take a lot of shots, while averaging a lot of rebounds, and having to defend post players because of his height. Don't you guys think he needs a companion? You know... Someone who might be able to take the load off the man? If it weren't for Durant blocking shots like he's 7 feet, you guys would've suffered an embarrassing loss to Spain after leading by a bunch after 3 quarters. Durant will have the 2006 Kobe Bryant Syndrome if you guys continue this way. Either he's going to have to go off and make people look retarded on the court, or you guys face losing. The only other players I see on the current roster that could turn it on when the game is on the line are probably Stephen Curry and Rudy Gay... And that's being generous, especially for Rudy. The fact of the matter is, that there are too many 'good' players and not enough 'great' players. I'm sure you can attribute that to youth, as the oldest player is Billups at 33, but international basketball isn't about potential or athleticism... It's about consistency and experience, as Team USA proved in 2004 and 2006.

By no means, am I saying that you guys won't be able to bring home the FIBA World Championship. In fact, you guys are still the odds-on favorites. That doesn't mean Team USA doesn't have any weaknesses. Along with lacking inside presence, perimeter defense is a huge concern, evidenced by how easily Spain was able to get into the paint. Also, besides Steph Curry, there aren't any shooters on this squad. You guys will be the most athletic team on the court 9/10 times, but will be brought down by lack of skill and knowledge. Basketball is a world sport now, and the world has adapted to what we were deficient at. That not only will make the road for you guys a lot tougher, but it should make for some damn good basketball. It's hard to be mad at that, even if Team USA does end up going home early. Whatever the case, I wish you guys the best of luck. Maybe Redeem Team won't have to be reassembled for the US to stay at the top...

NBA 2K11 Trailer

*wipes drool off chin* I am an NBA 2K veteran. Yes, I said it. A veteran. I've been playing NBA 2K exclusively since 2000, when it graced its basketball goodness on the now-dead Dreamcast. I remember heads clowning it for years, only to come around two years ago, when they realized NBA Live Elite was doo. That said, I've been waiting for years to see Michael Jordan grace the best NBA video game out. That year is upon us. October 5th marks the release date for the 11th edition of NBA 2K, and I for one, cannot wait. Just check out the trailer and see how incredibly dope this game looks...

Dear Delusional Cavaliers Fans

The LeBron-athon, and it's subsequent wake is OVER. Let me repeat. The LeBron-athon is OVER. LeBron James is a Miami Heat (they need to work on their subject-verb agreement in the NBA), and is no longer a Cleveland Cavalier. It's over. Cavs fans, it's time you started preparing for a new season without he-who-shall-not-be-named-anymore. The fact that a man can't show up at a Cleveland Indians game (a completely different sport, mind you) donning a different jersey without catching shade is a terrible. You should feel ashamed for trying to kick the guy out of the stadium, when he wasn't even trying to start trouble. Whatever the case from some random Indians game (they're not making the playoffs anyway), it stands to say that you guys still haven't recovered from the LeBron fallout. Mo Williams is going to be your best player going into the season. I don't know whether to feel bad for this season or really good because you'll have a good lottery pick this season. All signs are pointing to a long, long, long season in Cleveland, which makes your anger understandable. What that doesn't do is allow you guys to turn into the stereotypical sports fans you look like in these videos. A guy really can't wear a LeBron Heat jersey to a baseball game without being harassed? It's not even the same sport!!! I could see the ire if he showed up for Cavs opening night decked out in heat gear. Otherwise it just comes off as petty. You mad? (Cam'ron voice) If so, you'd better get used to frustration coming from the basketball court, because it's not going away until you get the #1 pick again. And guess what? No amount of peanuts and beers thrown, LeBron jerseys burned or angry open letters will ever get LeBron James back. He's moved on to bigger and (hopefully) better things. Deal with it, and just watch the damn game...

Dear Michael Jordan (re: The Decision)

When an innovator, originator or all-time great speaks on the current state of their field of expertise, you listen. Point. Blank. Period. No matter how sick you are of hearing about the event, that great's words matter, not because they'll have any bearing on the situation. Those words matter because it's essentially a view from the top. It's like Bill Gates, Steve Jobs or Eric Schmidt speaking on the state of computing, or Joe Montana speaking on football, or Jimmie Dean (RIP) speaking on breakfast meats. That's why I don't get why people are so up in arms about your comments regarding the LeBron-athon and the free agency free-for-all over the past few weeks. Michael, simply put, you are the best to ever play the game of basketball (readers, let's not get into the debate; Kobe is still playing). That said, I think you'd know a thing or two about the game and how differences in generations would change the game.

Michael, your comments make perfect sense. While one can't not respect LeBron and company for hopping onto the Dwyane Wade bandwagon in Miami, you've got to question the cojones on some of these guys. You're right!! Back in your day (sad that we can say that now) you wouldn't have had Larry Bird and Magic Johnson hitting you up to form a New World Order. Patrick Ewing wouldn't have based his free agent signing on wherever you were going. Charles Barkley would've laughed you out of town had you suggested that you guys team up. I suppose what the NBA is losing with these multi-million dollar deals and hour-long free agent specials, is simple: competition. Think about it MJ.. When you were playing, did the term 'contract year' even exist? Players didn't lounge for 3 years and then decide to turn it on the year their contract was up. They proved their worth on a night-to-night basis. Players went up and at each other. There were rivalries... REAL rivalries, with bad blood, heated words and hard fouls to prove it. Players might have been friends off the court, but their pride wouldn't allow them to make nice on the court. In your day, there wouldn't have been 'Three Kings' in Miami. Those three guys would have had to make their own ways in their respective cities. The advent of free agency took the heart right out of the NBA.

Much like your comments, Mike, this isn't a shot at LeBron. This is just a basketball fan fearing the worst: that the underdog will become a dying breed... that the powers that be (ie: David Stern, the shareholders, and their wallets) will prevail over the game and art of basketball... Even more I fear that competition, true competition between great players will dwindle because they'll all be on the same team. Where's the fun in that? LeBron and his personal dream team will be fun to watch. Yet, the best basketball experiences involve NOT knowing who was going to be in the big dance come May. Your era was the last to exhibit raw, unadulterated, bitter competition. The way it's looking, the NBA Champs will be one of 4 teams for the next 10 years. If that doesn't make you as a basketball fan a little salty, Mike, I don't know what does. Then again, I suppose running the Charlotte Bobcats (as futile as it may become soon) is all the competition you need. Good luck fighting the power, Mike. You'll need it...

Dear Dan Gilbert

Caption: Am I f*cking up??

via The New York Times:

Cleveland fans, you can still hold your heads high: The curse has been lifted! Or so the Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert asserts, in an open letter to “Cleveland, all of Northeast Ohio and Cleveland Cavaliers supporters wherever you may be tonight.”

While some in the city and state that once hailed LeBron James as “king” burned his jerseys, Gilbert promised a much brighter future while simultaneously chastising and berating James for his “cowardly betrayal” of his hometown fans.

“But the good news is that this heartless and callous action can only serve as the antidote to the so-called ‘curse’ on Cleveland, Ohio,” Gilbert wrote, noting that the “self-titled former ‘king” will be taking the bad luck and karma with him to South Beach. With the “curse” on its way to Miami, Cleveland is now primed to win a championship, in Gilbert’s eyes. In all capital letters, in the middle of the letter, Gilbert made a vow to Cavaliers fans everywhere:

“I PERSONALLY GUARANTEE THAT THE CLEVELAND CAVALIERS WILL WIN AN NBA CHAMPIONSHIP BEFORE THE SELF-TITLED FORMER ‘KING’ WINS ONE.”

Cleveland, Gilbert says, won’t just live on, it will prosper. Its children won’t have the image of a selfish role model draped over their arenas, and its front offices will be working harder than ever to win a championship against James.

As everyone is sitting there hating LeBron on the Heat, and raising their blood pressure over a deal that sealed basketball future, it would be easy to write about LeBron. However, the media firestorm, combined with the entire experience of the LeBronathon sickened me, so I'm not writing a part 2 to the previous letter. Instead we're going to take a look at you, Dan Gilbert. The owner that gave up the best player in the NBA.

I can't think of ANY time in the NBA when a team would allow, not only their best player to walk in free agency, but the best player in the NBA, and the world! Dan, you really dropped the ball on this one. The Cavaliers have had 7 (count em; 7) seasons to win an NBA Championship with LeBron James. That's 7 different seasons and 7 different chances to win. In NBA years, that's a long time. Dynasties are forged within 2-3 years. We're watching the end of one (sorry Lakers) and the beginning of a dynasty of endless epic proportions. The fact that you had well over twice that time to build a championship-caliber team around LeBron is sad. In those 7 years, I can't think of one season where James had a legitimate 2nd option on the team. Signing Larry Hughes was a joke and Mo Williams can't produce in the postseason. Not to mention, Antawn Jamison never can cut it in crunch time. Everytime your team won, it was because LeBron did something extraordinarily skilled or inhumanly athletic, not because someone else contributed consistently. Therefore, you can't ever be mad that he left to get some support (I think he went for broke for no reason, but that's another letter) around him. LeBron might have taken the easy way out, but can you blame him?

Your letter to the fans sounded like an angry ex-girlfriend who's ex-boyfriend upgraded significantly. It sounded like you were trying to find any conceivable way to speak ill of that person, regardless of whether you did right by them or not. What's worse is that you guaranteed a title before the Heat. You can't promise that!! What crystal ball were you looking into? Dan, you do realize that the your team, the Cavs have NOBODY on the squad. You guys won't be competing in the Eastern Conference for a long time. The Heat are a juggernaut, and they only have 4 players on their roster. The Celtics just re-upped with Jermaine O'Neal, the Bulls got better with Boozer and the Magic are still the Magic. Not to mention, the rest of the East is getting better. All that, combined with the fact that LeBron tried to smooth his move to Miami over with apologies, made you flip. That doesn't mean you should write angry letters to fans bashing the man. Seriously... Who tries to put a hex on a player leaving his team? Did you sit there at home and prick your LeBron James voodoo doll? Had you simply expressed remorse, or sounded optimistic (neither would truly make a difference, anyway), you wouldn't look like an ass now or have to start from square one with the Cavaliers and with Cleveland. Hope your wallets will be okay as Cleveland's economy rapidly declines and the Cavs don't make the playoffs for another 15 years...

First this, and now LeBron leaves?? Maybe Cleveland just isn't meant to win...