Kyle Lowry was one of the best point guard's in the NBA during the 2013-14 NBA season. He averaged career highs of 17 points and seven assist in his second season in Toronto. He is one of the best players on the free agent market.
One of the New York Knicks main issues this past season was a lack of consistency at the point guard spot. The NBA game today is dominated by guards. One of the quickest ways to improve your team is to go out and acquire a solid point guard. Lowry's play was one of the main reasons Toronto captured their first division title since 2007.
During his eight years in the league Lowry has improved drastically. At one point it seemed like he would spend his entire career as a reserve. He is a pit bull of a defender. The outside shot still has room for improvement.
Lowry is worth taking a shot at. At 28 years old he still has good years ahead of him. Kyle Lowry will have an impact wherever he plays basketball next season.
Jason kidd got off to a turbulent start to begin his coaching career. He was caught on camera telling one of his players to bump him so he could spill a drink to extend a timeout. He relieved Lawrence Frank of his duties as assistant coach due to irreconcilable differences. Worst of all Brooklyn was losing games in every way possible. By December Kidd appeared to be in over his head.
The Nets turned things around after the new year. Despite the early struggles Kidd never seemed rattled. That was one of the things that made him special as a point guard for the past two decades. He ended up becoming the first rookie coach to win a game seven on the road in NBA history.
The Milwaukee Bucks have turned into a team on the rise seemingly overnight. Jabari parker could be the best player in a top heavy draft. They also boast one of the most solid guard combinations in the NBA. O.J Mayo and Brandin Knight may not be superstars, but the two compliment one another well. Giannis Antetokounmpo has a great upside. He and parker have a chance to become a special duo in years to come.
Kidd is only 41 years old. He has a long coaching career ahead of him. Jumping ship to a team with this much promise is a great move. The Nets roster is full of aging, overpaid players on their way out the league. Mikhail Prokhorov doesn't believe in rebuilding. The Salary cap situation is a joke.
Kidd may take criticism for this decision. The Nets jump started his career after basketball. He leap frogged over dozens of viable candidates months after retiring. Kidd will certainly leave people within the Nets organization feeling snubbed.
The Eastern Conference is wide open. The Milwaukee Bucks can make noise in years to come.
For the second consecutive year the Cleveland Cavaliers selected a Canadian born player with the number one pick in the NBA Draft. As expected, Cleveland chose Andrew Wiggins with the top selection. This is the third time the Cavaliers have owned the rights to the first pick in the last four years. Kyrie Irving is one of the best players in the NBA under 25 years of age. Anthony Bennett struggled during his rookie campaign. Last years number one pick didn't look comfortable until the latter stages of the NBA season. Cleveland cannot afford to miss on this pick.
The Lakers made a great selection with Julius Randle at number seven. Randle could turn out to be the best player in the draft. He has a great combination of power and skill. His lack of experience on the college level may keep him off the court initially. In the long run his game should transition to the NBA well. We may be looking at the next Zack Randolph in Randle.
The most interesting selection of the draft could be Marcus Smart at number six. Smart earned himself the reputation as a bad boy at Oklahoma State. The Boston Celtics now have insurance at the point guard position in case they decide to shop Rajon Rondo. Smart played off the ball for much of his college career. At 6'3 he will be forced to handle the ball more to stay on the court. Smart reminds me of Dwayne Wade based on his frame and skill set.
Jabari Parker is arguably the most NBA ready player in this years draft. The Chicago native attended the same high school as Derrick Rose. The Milwaukee Bucks got the best player for their organization going forward. Parker is no stranger to the spotlight. Expect him to assume a leadership role early on. I anticipate him averaging between 16 and 21ppg next season. We may be looking at the 2015 NBA Rookie of The Year in Parker.
Philadelphia drafted an injured big man for the second consecutive year. Jeol Embiid's numbers are similar to Patrick Ewing as a college freshman. To ignore his star potential would be foolish. However, the stress fracture he was recently diagnosed with makes him a risky selection. Injury riddled big men can cripple a franchises chances of winning a championship. If he can manage to stay healthy Embiid should have a long and productive NBA career.
Tyler Ennis was a confusing pick at 18. The Canadian born point guard has a feel for the game beyond his years. He was the best passer available on the draft board. Phoenix is stacked at the point guard position. Minutes may be difficult to come by for Ennis early on. He will have to overcome his lack of athleticism. Jim Boeheim calls Ennis the smartest player he's ever coached. That speaks volumes coming from a Hall-of-Fame coach.
LeBron James is a fan of Shabazz Napier. The Miami Heat acquired Napier via trade from the Charlotte Hornets. Napier captured two NCAA Championships at Connecticut. He averaged 17.4ppg and 4.9apg during his senior year in college. Mario Chalmers may have just become expendable. Miami struggled at the point guard position down the stretch. The Heat are looking to improve at every position.
This is believed to be the best draft since 2003. Freshman were selected with the top three picks. At least five years must pass before we know where this draft stands in NBA history.
Tim Lincecum has had to overcome a great deal during his baseball journey. Due to his lack of size, scouts doubted whether he could ever garner success on the major league level. Since joining the San Francisco Giants he has taken pride in proving all the naysayers wrong.
In recent years Tim has been increasingly frustrating to watch. While other members of the Giants pitching staff have hit their stride, Tim seems to have hit a rocky point in his career. Including this season he is only 39-48 since the start of the 2011 season.
He began his MLB career in impressive fashion. In his first two full seasons he posted a 33-12 record, capturing back-to-back Cy Young awards along the way.
Last night Tim recorded the second no-hitter of his career against the San Diego Padres. No pitcher has thrown a no-hitter for the Padres organization.
The only other pitcher in MLB history to record two no- hitters, two Cy Young awards and win two World Series Championships is Sandy Koufax. It seems as if anytime a pitcher accomplishes a great feat it somehow becomes tied to Koufax and Don Drysdale.
Tim reminds me of Pedro Martinez in so many ways. A dominant MLB pitcher that looks like he went to his senior prom last week. If he can maintain this level of performance the Giants have a great shot at winning their third World Series in the last five years.
Tim Lincecum will be enshrined in Cooperstown someday.
Luis Suarez has been caught with his hands in the cookie jar once again. The Uruguayan footballer apparently bit a chunk out of the left shoulder of Italian defenseman Giorgio Chiellini.
The 2014 World Cup has had a myriad of issues that have been overshadowed by the excitement of excellent futbol. The issue is now under investigation by FIFA officials. Uruguay sealed their spot in the round of 16 with a corner just minutes after the altercation.
Italy has won this tournament on four separate occasions. It is truly a shame that a historical victory of this magnitude must be overshadowed by such egregious behavior.
This is the third occasion in which Suarez has bitten an opponent. He received a seven match suspension for viciously biting Chelsea defenseman Branislav Ivanovic. FIFA needs to send a loud and clear message to Suarez. This type of behavior is unacceptable.
Suarez is one of the most talented players in the tournament. His World Cup is likely over. Representing your country in the World Cup is an honor. Suarez should not be allowed to compete for his national club again until he can prove he deserves that honor.
Something eerie is currently taking place in the NBA. Two days after Carmelo Anthony informed the New York Knicks of his decision to opt out of the final year of his contract, LeBron James has decided to opt out of the remaining two years of his contract to become an unrestricted free agent.
Pat Riley sent a clear message to LeBron during his press conference about the future of the Miami Heat. Riley wants LeBron to end his career in South Beach. The NBA lifer has experienced winning as a player, head coach and as an executive. He remains confident in his ability to keep a championship quality team around LeBron.
It will be interesting to see what teams LeBron actually speaks to. You would have to believe every team with an ounce of cap space is going to take a stab at signing him this summer. A few teams might be willing to pay the luxury tax. I cannot disagree with that decision, the man is a four time MVP.
This could also be a ploy to lure Carmelo to South Beach. In order for Miami to afford him LeBron, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh would have to take a pay cut. LeBron opting out could be the beginning of another super team forming in the Eastern Conference. We've seen this kind of ordeal in 2008 with the Boston Celtics and in 2010 when LeBron took his talents to South Beach.
Money doesn't play a huge role in this situation. Miami can sign LeBron to a five-year $127 Million dollar deal. $30 Million more than any other team in the league. However, with his sneaker deal and a slew of other marketing contracts, LeBron will be one of the highest grossing athletes in the world regardless of his NBA deal.
Clint Dempsey is in the midst of one of the greatest performances by an American in World Cup history. Dempsey's goal in the 81st minute of USA's match-up against Portugal is arguably the most important goal ever scored in American international futbol. Only Landon Donovan's late score to put America through group stages back in 2010 looms in comparison.
USA looked better against Portugal than in their win VS Ghana. Both Portuguese scores developed due to huge mental errors on the U.S's behalf. Portugal is a good futbol team. Entering this match I don't believe USA would consider a tie a disappointment. They boast one of the best players in the tournament. However, with the opportunity to clinch a spot in the knock out round in the palm of your hands, the team has to be a bit disappointed they let a golden opportunity slip away.
This would have been USA's first World Cup win after trailing during intermission. This was also almost the first time Portugal would have failed to earn a point after leading at the half in a World Cup match. A marvelous cross by Ronaldo stopped a great deal of history from taking place.
At this point Jurgen Klinnsman must get back to the drawing board. USA's head man must come up with a game plan against the side he earned a Word Cup with back in 1990.
It's important the U.S does not let the disappointment of giving up a late score carry over to their next match. Entering the tournament Germany was pitted as a favorite to win gold. The Germans definitely want to finish first in their group.
The U.S used to be considered inferior to Germany on the pitch. 2010 was a successful run in American standards. A win over Germany would give a great confidence boost moving forward.
Group G was considered the group of death entering the tournament. To be going into the third match with an opportunity to win the group outright is more than anyone could ask for. More work is left to be done in Brazil. The next order of business is Germany.
Would you call LeBron James decision to snub his home state and take his talents to South Beach a success? The last team to make four consecutive NBA Finals was the 1984-87 Boston Celtics. That team is considered one of the greatest in NBA history.
Following "The Decision" fiasco fans found it easy to root against LeBron. However, when you take all the factors in consideration, the Miami Heat will go down as one of the best teams in league history. Back-to-back titles are difficult to come by.
Now Carmelo Anthony holds the future of the NBA in the palm of his hands. Carmelo is arguably the second best player in the NBA. He is without a doubt the best scorer in the NBA today. Carmelo possesses the ability to score at anywhere on the offensive end. You will be hard pressed trying to find a player in NBA history will the skill set Carmelo has. The closest is probably Bernard King, who Carmelo happened to follow as a child living in Brooklyn.
Call me a traditionalist, but I've never been a fan of stars chasing championships. LeBron will forever be known as the guy who needed help. One of the greatest physical specimens in the history of professional sports shouldn't have that stigma following him. What's done is done and there is no back tracking in this league.
Carmelo do you really want to fit those shoes? Hey, maybe I'm crazy. Or maybe I'm just as old school as can be.
The scope of the 2014 NBA Draft changed drastically today. Jeol Embiid was on at least a dozen teams draft board. The 7'0 center out of Kansas is expected to undergo surgery on a stress fracture in the right foot. Due to this latest injury Embiid has to be considered a risky pick. This is the same injury that ended Yao Ming's career prematurely. Recovering from a stress fracture is a difficult task for a man as big as Embiid. He was already considered risky due to ongoing back issues.
This draft is expected to change the landscape of the NBA. NBA scouts claim the talent level is on pace with the 2003 NBA Draft. If this draft is anywhere near as good as the 2003 draft the NBA is in good hands. That remains to be determined.
Today's NBA lacks size in comparison to previous generations. If Embiid were 100% healthy he would be a sure bet at number one. Teams don't want to end up like the Portland Trailblazers with Sam Bowie, or better yet Greg Oden.
Embiid averaged 11.5 points, 2.6 blocks and 8.1 rebounds per contest during his freshman campaign at Kansas. Patrick Ewing posted 12.7 points, 3.2 blocks and 7.5 rebounds a night his freshman season at Georgetown. Patrick finished his college career as one of the greatest NCAA centers ever. He was selected as one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history in 1998. To ignore Embiid's star potential would be foolish.
At some point in the first-round some team will take a risk on Embiid. If he's available around pick # 15 the risk decreases. This is going to be a hit or miss pick. This type of selection can get an NBA G.M fired, or initiate a promotion and salary hike.
Seven years from now some team may either be elated for selecting Embiid or recovering from the ramifications of a risk gone awry. That's how cut and dry winning in sports is. Rick Pitino took the Boston Celtics job in 1997 with the hopes Bean Town would land the number one pick. The ping pong balls played in the San Antonio Spurs favor. Five championships later I'd say they Spurs hit the jackpot with that one selection.
Embiid comes off as a genuine young man. Injuries are a sad reality in sports. I wish him all the best in his future NBA endeavors.
I would have bet the bank in Vegas the Spanish futbol club would have survived group stages in pursuit of a second consecutive World Cup Trophy. Good thing I've never been much of a gambler. Spain became the first defending World Cup Champion to lose its first two matches in history.
Prior to World Cup 2014 the Spaniards captured three consecutive major international tournaments. Spain defeated the Netherlands by a slim 1-0 margin in the 2010 World Cup Final in South Africa. The undermanned Netherlands squad played Spain to a standstill until Carlos Puyol scored the winning goal in extra time. This time around the Netherlands would be ready, ringing up Spain to the tune of 5 goals. Iker Casillas and company didn't know what hit them until it was too late.
This loss marks the end of a golden age in Spanish futbol. The Spaniards have always been a traditional world power, yet 2010 was the first time they've been able to outclass the entire world and bring home the most prestigious trophy in the sport.
A bundle of questions surround this squad moving forward. David Villa and Fernando Torres may not be back in 2018. Casillas was a huge disappointment in this tournament. His future as keeper has to be in question.
Spain's early exit places more of an emphasis on the host nation to perform. Excellence in futbol is a tradition in Brazil. The fans are eager for their first World Cup Championship since 2002.
The United States Trademark and Patent office ruled today that the Washington Redskins no longer own the rights to the team name or logo. Washington will hold on to the rights to the teams merchandise until the appeals process is over. As of right now this stands as a huge victory for the Native American community.
Washington owner Daniel Snyder has been stubborn about changing the organizations name since acquiring the team in 1999. In recent years the debate over whether the team should change the name has picked up speed. Representatives in the Native American community cite the name as being a direct racial slur. This situation makes me ponder, how would I feel if a professional sports team was called the Atlanta Black skins?
Snyder has hid behind the sorry excuse the name carries tradition. In reality the name has inherited a tradition. However, Snyder is blind towards what values his organizations name actually represents. The term "RedSkin" is rooted from a deep hatred of Native Americans. Look at the manner in which they were treated during the first 100 years of this countries existence. Native Americans were not considered citizens. The Government placed tribes with a history of turbulence on the same reservations. A lack or respect and consideration was given to the tradition and values of Native Americans.
The ruling does not force Washington to change their name. But it does continue to place the eagle eye on a name that has run its course. The organization must realize that times change. John Wayne movies depict how Native Americans were viewed during the 19th century. A part of American history people love to brush under the rug.
In time I hope Snyder comes to his senses and puts this situation to rest. If so many people are obviously offended, their must be some substance to the argument. Good luck Daniel Snyder, you've embarked on a losing battle.
Jurgen Klinsmann and company could not have asked for a better start to the 2014 World Cup. The USA is pitted in one of the toughest opening round groups. Germany is a world power, Portugal starts one of the best players in the tournament and Ghana eliminated the U.S in 2006 and once again in 2010. The term "Group of death" is well deserved.
Germany is the heavy favorite to win the group outright. No European nation has ever won a World Cup on South American soil. A good start to the tournament is good for the psyche of each nation traveling across the Atlantic. The Germans trounced Portugal 4-0 in their opening match-up. Thomas Muller opened the tournament in top form, scoring a hat trick against a stingy Portugal defense. The goal differential serves as a plus for the United States going forward. Ronaldo will come out attacking in the Portuguese next contest.
Clint Dempsey opened the tournament with a huge statement goal against Ghana. The African nation has sent the U.S packing in back-to-back World Cup tournaments. Getting over the mental hurdle of defeating a talented Ghana squad is imperative for the U.S going forward.
A clean victory almost turned into pure disappointment after the U.S allowed Ghana to tie the match in the 82nd minute. German born substitute John Brooks came up with the biggest goal of his life in the 86th minute. Brooks bailed the U.S out by heading in a beautifully placed corner for the match winning score.
If the U.S can manage to defeat Portugal they have a shot at winning the entire group. Germany looked marvelous against Portugal. This next match is crucial for the United States.
Great start to the tournament for the Yanks!
Entering this season Tim Duncan was already considered by many to be the best power-forward in NBA history. Two regular season MVP awards, three finals MVP awards and four NBA championships speak volumes. Despite all these accomplishments people still question Tim's greatness.
Charles Barkley, Karl Malone and Kevin McHale are some of the names used to downplay the greatness Tim displays. Barkley couldn't keep his weight down long enough to be in the conversation. Malone won zero championships during his 20 year career. McHale never had to burden the responsibility of being the guy. Now that Tim has added another prize to his trophy collection, he is undoubtedly the best at his position.
Tim is now the second player in NBA history to win a championship in three different decades. John Salley is the other. Salley was a role player during his time in the NBA. Tim's longevity is a testament to hard work and a great working relationship between he and Greg Popovich.
David Robinson was the best player in Spurs history prior to Tim. Tim was selected with the first pick of the 1997 NBA Draft. In the early 90's the Spurs were a perennial 50 win ballclub. The organization couldn't have imagined how good of player they were getting in Tim. The mid 90's opened up the floodgates for players coming out of high school. It's ironic that arguably the best player from that generation played four years of NCAA Basketball.
Not bad for an old ABA team.
For the sake of the NBA I hope Tim returns for his 18th professional season.
Phil Jackson's pitch to Carmelo Anthony has been simple. Stick around for one more year. The Knicks are expected to have enough cap space to possibly sign two max free agents after next season. Derek Fisher will be the next head coach and all will be swell in Gotham.
The Knicks threw all their marbles into the Carmelo Anthony Sweepstakes three years ago. The entire core that Donnie Walsh had built was dealt to bring in the perennial all-star. Walsh was against the deal. When James Dolan was informed an offer was on the table he overruled the G.M to pull the trigger and acquire Carmelo. It wasn't the best business decision, but the Knicks had their guy.
According to reports Carmelo is expected to opt out of the final year of his deal and become a free agent. This throws a monkey wrench in the Zen Master's plan. Phil is well aware of the level of talent necessary to be successful in this league. He himself has played alongside and coached some of the best talent in league history.
There's a good chance Phil may spend the remainder of the summer wondering what he was thinking when he accepted this job. The Steve Kerr hire was supposed to be a sure thing. Kerr's bosses at TNT were set to relieve him of his duties to become the Knicks next head coach. He even gave his former mentor a verbal commitment. That was until the Golden State Warriors came calling. Kerr was on the first train smoking out of town.
At some point Phil has received a call from every team in the league about joining their organization. He's certainly accustomed to having his ego stroked this time of year. To get spurned twice in one summer is unfamiliar territory.
The Knicks can still offer Carmelo more money than any other team in the NBA. Carmelo is 30. Now that he's all grown up and devoted to winning money may not be the deciding factor. Houston, Chicago, Miami and a few outsiders are expected to come calling.
The threat of Carmelo leaving is looming. Somewhere Donnie Walsh is saying I told you so. Phil would be advised to start devising a plan B.
The San Antonio Spurs just played arguably the best two back-to-back road games in NBA Finals history. The fact that it was done against the best player in the game is a testament to Greg Popovich and the equal opportunity offense. The Spurs look better than any team in June since the 2008 Boston Celtics. Regardless of the situation, you got the feeling that team just couldn't lose. The Spurs seem to be heading down the same road.
Following game six of the Western Conference Finals Tim Duncan wasn't shy about his feelings towards the Miami Heat. He let it be known the Spurs had unfinished business. Taking out Miami was the next order of business on the agenda. Thus far they have taken care of business in an orderly fashion.
Kawhi Leonard has continued to grow in this series. He posted an impressive stat line of 20 points, 14 rebounds, three steals, three blocks and three assist. If The Spurs finish the deal Leonard may be in line to win his first NBA Finals MVP award. He is often mentioned as the next great player in the NBA, sometimes a bit prematurely from my perspective. However, his performance over the last two games may be the confidence boost he needs to take his game to the next level.
Boris Diaw has been a pleasant surprise for San Antonio. His versatility at 6'8 creates match-up nightmares for Miami's front-court. He nearly accomplished a triple double in game four, posting eight points, nine rebounds and nine assist. I don't believe anyone envisioned Diaw playing this big of a role when the Spurs brought in the veteran Frenchman. Popovich was well aware of his abilities after years competition while Diaw played for Phoenix.
Dwayne Wade was abysmal in game four. He scored 10 points on 3-13 shooting from the field. Miami is going to need the former finals MVP if they expect to force a game six.
There is currently a missing persons report for Mario Chalmers game. If anyone sights it could you please get back to me as soon as possible. I would love to hear the details on how a championship starting point-guard can play this horrible on the games grandest stage.
The 2014 NBA Championship is slipping through LeBron James fingers. On the other hand, maybe the Spurs are yanking it away.
Apparently Derek Fisher was worth every bit of the $25,000 dollars Phil Jackson was fined for tampering a week ago. Fisher signed a five-year $25 Million dollar deal to become the next head coach of The New York Knicks.
Mike Woodson did a solid job as the Knicks head man. He guided his former team to their first playoff series victory since 2000. His 50-22 start is the best in team history through 72 games. The Knicks 37-45 record was not the deciding factor in getting rid of Woodson. Phil is content on doing it his own way. When you win a combined 13 championships as a player and coach you earn the right to make those decisions.
The Knicks took a page out of the Nets handbook by hiring a point-guard as head coach directly after retiring. In fact, Fisher never had the opportunity to formally retire. In 1990 The Lakers hired Mike Dunleavy following his retirement from the Milwaukee Bucks. Dunleavy lead the Lakers to the NBA Finals that year. However, Magic Johnson was the team leader. The Knicks don't have anyone of their roster with the leadership qualities of a Magic Johnson.
Phil is definitely rolling the dice on this deal. Expect a flurry of former Lakers and Bulls players to assume positions in the Knicks organization. From the on-set Phil has made it clear that he has no intentions to coach again.
Hiring a coach with experience may have been a better option. Jeff Van Gundy and Mark Jackson were both respectable candidates. Phil didn't get his first choice to replace Woodson. Steve Kerr opted to take the Warriors gig instead.
Fisher brings a swagger to New York unlike any other coach in Knicks history. These are unchartered waters for this city and this team. The 2014-15 season is going to be interesting.
At only 24 years of age Robert Griffin III has already experienced the highs and lows the NFL has to offer.
Griffin had one of the truly remarkable rookie seasons in NFL history. After beginning the 2012 season 3-6, he led the Washington Redskins to seven consecutive victories and their first NFC East title since 1999. For the first time in over a decade the Redskins were relevant again.
Griffin's first playoff game ended in disaster. After tweaking his knee early in the game Mike Shanahan opted to keep him on the field. That move proved to be costly as Griffin suffered a partial tear of the right ACL.
Hearing he had torn knee ligaments was emotional for Griffin. He suffered the same injury in the left ACL while at Baylor. After months of rehab his knee returned to form. Griffin capped off his college career by capturing the Heisman Trophy in 2011.
After pulling himself together Griffin set a new pass code in his cellular phone. The code was the same date as opening day of the 2013 season. His goal was to make it back as the opening day starter. Anyone that knows Griffin can attest to his hard work and determination. That's one of the things that make his special.
Griffin did not start any of the Redskins preseason games. However, he accomplished his goal by making it back as the opening day starter. The Redskins were smoked by Chip Kelly and the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night Football to open the season. They would lose the next two games to begin the season in an 0-3 hole. By week eight Washington was out of contention all together.
This offseason has been different for the third year quarterback. He's cut back on the exposure drastically. He became the NFL's poster boy before quarterbacking his first game. The love affair with the fans is over.
The fallout with the media and fans may be a blessing in disguise for Griffin. Due to the success of Andrew Luck and Russell Wilson, Griffin can remain under the radar while he attempts to reestablish himself as a dominant starting quarterback.
Since 2009 the Eagles, Redskins, Giants and Cowboys have all captured division titles. No team has won the NFC East in consecutive years since Philadelphia accomplished the feat in 2005. This is anyone's division to win heading into the 2014 season.
This is not the first time in his life RGIII will have the deck stacked against him. NFL training camp is upon us. Last year was about getting healthy. This upcoming season is about redemption.
In case you may have forgotten, LeBron James is currently the best basketball player on the planet. His talent was on full display in game two of the NBA Finals. He posted 35 points and 10 rebounds in 37 minutes of action.
LeBron had a look on his face I've never seen before. His focus and intensity appears to be on another level. When he gets into a rhythm stopping him is not an option. You can only hope to contain him and pray his teammates miss open jump shots. When the freight train is coming at you full speed the best thing may be to get out of the way.
The best performance of LeBron's career thus far was game five of the 2007 Eastern Conference Finals. He had his way with the Detroit Pistons in route to the NBA Finals. The third quarter of game two ranks right up there as one of the greatest stretches of his career. He scored 14 of his game-high 35 points in that quarter, including six consecutive jump shots. Early in his career the jump shot was LeBron's pet peeve. Today his game has no weakness.
For the third consecutive year the Miami Heat have tied the NBA Finals 1-1 following a loss to open the series. Eric Spoelstra deserves more credit than he receives. His adjustments following losses have been critical. No matter how good your pieces are, you still need a competent coach to call the shots.
The Heat have now won 13 consecutive games following a postseason loss. Since LeBron and Chris Bosh took their talents to South Beach they have produced a road victory in 16 playoff series. Regardless of the venue, Miami will come prepared to play.
San Antonio blew a golden opportunity to put a strangle hold on the series. Down the stretch the team went for the home run and began to play out of character. The execution was sloppy in the fourth quarter. This is uncharacteristic of a Greg Popovich coached team.
The Spurs lead the NBA in road wins this season. They'll need to steal one of the next two games in Miami or this series is over.
So far the Spurs still have not looked fluent. I expect them to raise their level of intensity heading on the road. Popovich needs to come up with a way to nullify LeBron. If not Tim Duncan can kiss that fifth NBA Championship goodbye.
Based on the last three NBA Finals, the Miami Heat have the San Antonio Spurs right where they want them. Miami has lost game one in their two most recent NBA Finals visits, only to storm back and win both series. In 2011 they defeated the Dallas Mavericks in game one of the finals. Dirk Nowitzki put Dallas on his shoulders and shocked Miami on their home-court in game six. Losing game one of the finals is not unfamiliar territory for the defending champions.
Miami has done a great job of making adjustments following a playoff loss. They have gone without losing back-to-back games the entire postseason. Championship teams find a way to get wins on the road. Eric Spoelstra and company will be satisfied heading back to South Beach with a 1-1 split. However, this year the necessity to steal one of the first two games on the road is not as important. The 2-2-1-1-1 format changes the dynamics of the series.
Greg Popovich is one of the best teachers in NBA history. Preparation is everything for the Spurs. With the game one victory, the Spurs are now 6-0 in game one's in the NBA Finals under Popovich.
Both of these teams now know what it felt like playing in the Boston Garden in June in the 1980's. The opposing locker room was known to reach triple digit temperature's on a regular basis. Back then it was looked at as gainesmanship. luckily for LeBron James the A.C malfunction will be corrected for game two.
Tony Parker's health was questionable heading into game one. Once again Tony was up for the task. He posted 19 points and eight assist in 36 minutes. He is still the driver of the Spurs bus.
Manu Ginobili was horrible for the Spurs last postseason. He made it his business to get in the gym everyday last summer. Redemption has been on Manu's mind for a year. He contributed 16 points and 11 assist in game one.
The drama is still building in the 2014 NBA Finals. Don't expect the Heat to go quiet. This series has seven games written all over it. Lets see if King James can once again rally his troops!
Over the course of 66 years in baseball Don Zimmer came in contact with thousands. If you ask around about Don the answers given would be pretty much the same. Don was known for his great energy, positive attitude and always being a go getter.
Even in his later years Don was revered around MLB. He was Joe Torre's guy during baseball's last great dynasty. The 1998-2000 New York Yankees were a better team due to Don's years of experience around the game.
Don lead the 1989 Chicago Cubs to an N.L East crown. That Cubs squad is known as one of the best managed teams in MLB history. That year the Cubs won a surprising 93 games before bowing out to the San Francisco Giants in the NLCS.
Don is one of the few players to have had the honor to play with the great Jackie Robinson. He epitomized what being a baseball lifer is all about. Even getting married couldn't get him away from the baseball diamond. In 1951 Don married his high school sweetheart, Carol Jean Bauerle at home plate while playing for Elmira Pioneers of upstate New York. Legend has it Don hit 3-4 that night after tying the knot.
Don got into coaching right after his playing days were over. Most guys would take some time off, but not Don. The zest for baseball lived inside of him down to his last days. He still was on salary as an advisor for the Tampa Bay Rays up until his death.
Don Zimmer passed away at the age of 83. His contributions to the game of baseball are greatly appreciated.
The San Antonio Spurs are going to need Tony Parker at his best to have any shot at dethroning the Miami Heat.
The Spurs did themselves a huge favor by eliminating OKC in six games on their home floor. The win allowed Parker to have 5 days of rest heading into the NBA Finals. His ankle has been bothering him the entire postseason. Prior to game six of the Western Conference Finals the ankle flared up, causing Greg Popovich to cut Parker's minutes in half.
A year ago Parker entered the NBA Finals in a similar situation, only it was the hamstring that was bothering him. He ended up making the game winning basket in game one. Parker is one of the best in the league at getting into the paint. When he's successful at breaking down the defense, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and the rest of San Antonio's weapons feast on their prey.
Parker is the only member of the Spurs other than Duncan to win finals MVP. Last time the Spurs cut down the nets he took those honors. San Antonio has developed other players besides their big three that can contribute. If Parker is not at 100% someone must step up.
Kawhi Leonard, Danny Green and Patrick Mills the onus may be on you!
The NFL's concussion lawsuits just kicked up a notch with the addition of one name. Dan Marino is amongst 15 former players that filed a concussion-related lawsuit in Philadelphia' U. S District a week ago.
Although Marino never won a Super Bowl, he still garners recognition as one of the greatest Quarterback's in NFL history. He ranks third in league history in both touchdown passes and passing yards.
During his playing days Marino was known for his huge stature. He would stand in the pocket and fling bombs all over the field. He wasn't associated with concussions like other Quarterbacks of his generation. I would have expected Steve Young or Troy Aikman to have joined this lawsuit. Their struggles with head injuries were well publicized. That's the scary thing about concussions, you aren't 100% sure until its too late.
The lawsuit alleges that the NFL concealed information about concussions for years. Marino's attorney is also apart of the NFL's $765 Million dollar lawsuit. U.S District Judge Anita Brody rejected the $765 Million dollar suit, citing the funds may not be enough to cover expenses.
The NFL needs to stop wasting innocent peoples time and cough up the cash. Not only did the league put its players at risk for years, but they're trying to be cheap with the guys that have stepped up for what they deserve.
The motivation for LeBron James is winning his third consecutive NBA Championship. Not long ago LeBron was the villain of the NBA. After "The Decision"people had a reason to hate LeBron. He tried to embrace the enemy role his first year in Miami. That season ended in an NBA Finals loss to the Dallas Mavericks.
LeBron returned to his roots following the disappointment of once again losing in the championship round. Since his days as a prep star at St. Vincent- St. Mary High School LeBron has been all about having fun. Some players take exception to his antics, but King James is actually better when he's relaxed and enjoying himself. Despite his immense talent, he has always been a team player on and off the court. The fans that burned his jersey four years ago are now salivating for a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
LeBron is now 2-2 in the NBA Finals. Only four teams have captured three consecutive rings in league history. Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls did it twice. If Miami wins it all LeBron will be half way to Michael's six rings. Michael completed his first three-peat at the age of 30. LeBron is 29. This finals could very well determine if LeBron will need a second hand to boast his rings.
Larry Bird repeatedly expressed how difficult winning a championship is during his press conference about the future of the Indiana Pacers organization. Chris Paul, Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard are all veterans looking to get their hands on an NBA Championship. Although the Heat have made four consecutive NBA Finals, these opportunities are not promised on a yearly basis. To make the final-round you need talent, hard work, health and most important luck.
LeBron needs to take advantage and cement his name in NBA history. Earlier this season LeBron turned heads with his comments about the NBA's Mt Rushmore. Another title may be the start of a new sculpture.
The Miami Heat are once again playing basketball in June. This is exactly what the big three envisioned when they took their talents to South Beach. Miami is the first team since the 84-87 Boston Celtics to make four consecutive NBA Finals appearances. The Heat are on the verge of yet another NBA dynasty.
Tim Duncan has been waiting for this moment all season. The Spurs feel they let the NBA Championship slip away a year ago. Tim missed a hook shot in the crucial moments of game seven that could have changed the series outcome. Tim is already considered by many to be the greatest Power-forward in NBA history. A fifth championship will make a good argument that Tim is the best big man of his era, Shaquille O'Neal included.
This series will determine NBA Hall Of Fame voting someday. Miami has four players on their roster that may get Hall Of Fame consideration. LeBron James, Dwayne Wade and Ray Allen are all sure bets to get in eventually. If Miami completes the three-peat you would think Chris Bosh would also begin to garner some consideration. Even Eric Spoelstra is beginning to put together an impressive resume. Not many coaches in NBA history have won three consecutive rings.
Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker are in pursuit of their fourth championship ring. Another ring will make Tim's partners in crime hard to overlook getting into Springfield in the near future.
This is the first finals rematch since Chicago and Utah in 1998. Home-court switched to Utah for that series. That did not change the results of the series. The Bulls took the series in six games, only this time they did it on the road. Since joining forces the big three have shown the ability to win postseason games on the road. The Heat will have to win at least one game in Texas to capture the NBA Finals. This series will probably go to six or seven games.
Last year these two teams gave NBA fans an epic seven game series. Both are eager to reclaim the Larry O'Brien Trophy. A three-peat is in the works for Miami. Three is considered the golden standard in terms of back-to-back championships. A fifth ring for San Antonio will make them the longest running dynasty in league history. This illustrious run began 15 years ago.
This should be a great series.
