Thats right I am trying it again, picking perfect for NBA or anything else I pick this week. I am hoping to start out with a perfect day tomorrow with a lot of games in the NBA I know it won't be easy but thats fine with me. First I wanted to say that I knew that Lakers would turn it on in the second hald I didn't think however that Ron Artest would turn around so quickly, someone must have sat him down and let him know whats up. I am glad to see the Lakers doing so good, but the team I really wanna see now is the NEW Thunder with Perk in their lineup. I know he is hurt right now, but all the Thunder were missing really was a low post player that was defensive minded, and now they have one of the best low post defenders in the game today.
Anyways lets get to my picks for tomorrows games. First game is the Warriors v. the Pacers, I know the Warriors are coming off a tough loss to the T-Wolves but I think the Pacers a better team, I know that the Warriors have had some guys playing good this season but I think the Pacers are much better off under their new head coach and they are at home so I will take the Pacers tomorrow. The Knicks will go on the road to play the Magic and this will be another test for them. The Magic usually play good defense and the Knicks will have a hard time stopping Dwight Howard thats for sure. But with that said I think the Knicks are gunna play just as good as they did last night and I think that Dwight won't be enough the Magic need a number 2 scorer and they don't have one and that will hurt them against the Knicks, I'll take the Knicks over the Magic. The Mav's v. the Sixers is the next game up and while the Sixers are having a great 2nd half I still think that the Mav's are playing as good as anyone right now. Especially with what Peja and Roddy B. have added to them, Peja has found his spot in the offense and Roddy B. is a great GREAT young talent and given the chance I think will turn a lot of heads, I will obviously take the Mav's even though they are on the road. The Hornets travel to play the Raptors, while CP3 is coming off a poor game shooting wise I believe Okafor is back so I am taking the Hornets over the Raptors. The Pistons play the Bucks, this is a tough one but with all the problesm the Pistons are having its tough to pick them...but they are playing the Bucks so I am not sure on this one...I will go with the home team Bucks for what I am calling an upset. The Lakers v. the T-Wolves, if the Lakers are playing like this the rest of the second half I really don't see them losing many games. All year long I have been waiting for this Laker team and here they are, I am taking the Lakers to win but Kevin Love has a 20-15 night or something around there. The Spurs v. the Grizzlies both missing what most would say is their best player, Parker for the Spurs and Gay for the Grizzlies, the thing is the Spurs are much deeper so I will take them over the Grizzlies, even though the Grizzlies were doing great before losing Gay. The Rockets travel to Portland to take on the Trailblazers, as much as I like the Rockets as darkhorse they lost Brooks, and the Blazers added Wallace I think the Blazers are gunna surpise a lot of people come post season, I will take them to win at home tomorrow.
Just wanted to touch on NCAA hoops real quick. With 3 impressive wins in their past 3 games I would expect K-State to climb back into the AP top 25 especially after tonights win over Texas in Texas. That is 2 straight loses for Texas, who was #5 just before the loss to Colorado. I am not saying Texas isn't as good as we have been saying they are, cause they are very good. But K-State was lights out tonight shooting 50% from the field compared to Texas's 33. Whenever you are 17% better shooting then your opposition its a strong chance you'll get the W. K-State has won 7 of their last 8 and 3 of them against top 25 teams 2 of them against top 10. I wasn't sure about K-State at the start of the year and they still have some puzzling losses but with their recent victories I don't see how you can keep them out of the top 25.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Great start
Finally I start the week off with a decent performance, I know it's not as great as having only 1 wrong pick everyday, but still pretty good. Another trade was made today sending Mike Bibby from the Hawks to the Wizards and Kirk Hinrich to the Hawks there are 3 other players involved but those are the 2 main ones. I know that Hinrich wasn't starting with the Wizards so maybe thats why he wasn't as productive as he was with the Bulls that and he is older. Still obviously the Hawks think he is a better fit then Bibby and due to past and present I would have to agree, of course we still have to see how thing work out. Melo had 27 in his debut at the Garden but he had a poor shooting % so a decent night for him he also had 10 rebounds which is 3 above his season average. The Knicks played a little different style basketball tonight I think mainly cause they haven't practiced together yet. Give them time and they will get to the pick n roll type offense, I doubt we will see a lot of iso with this team, some but not as much as Melo is used to. I think they have a great shot at a first round upset in the playoffs as I mentioned I really love the fact that they also got Billups he will really help the 2 superstars get their shots. I think the biggest adjustment that will have to be made is on the part of Melo now playing with a big man that can score the basketball, which is something he is not used to. I don't know what is going on with Ron Artest but it seems he has realized how lucky he is to be on the Lakers and from now on he better just play his best so they can 3-peat. Tonight with what I believe is his season high with 24 points, to go along with that he also has 2 steals, 4 dimes, and 6 boards. His best game of the season that I can remember so far, lets hope this is a sign of things to come. I know that Bynum hasn't been as big a part of the offense lately, and since I haven't seen either game I can't tell if he is playing great on the other end of the floor. The key is 1. that Pau is playing how he was at the start of the season with 18 points and 14 rebounds the key is the rebounds, also had 4 dimes and a block. 2. is the fact that Kobe has turned it on in the second half especially tonight putting the Lakers on his back like he knows how, dropping 37 points on a good defensive team a team that had won its last 6 games coming into tonight. To go along with his 37 points he also had 3 steals, 6 dimes, and 9 boards almost a triple double. If him and Pau can continue to perform at this level all the Laker will need is 2 roll players to have good games. If they can get Bynum back into at least a 15-10 type night they will be in great shape to hammer this thing out. I was excited to see how the Bulls would be with Noah back and they dropped an SHOULD win gmae to the Raptors, I know it was on the road but if your contending for a title and playing a team as poor as the Raptors, nothing should matter but you have to get that W, especially now at full strenght. It is a slight slip up but I am not worried Noah had plenty of boards but once he gets his shot back they will be in bussiness. Another great outting by Blake Griffin wasted by the Clippers in a loss to the Hornets, in a year where CP3 seems to be under everyones radar, but its only cause he is taking less shots there for not putting up huge scoring number, but still shooting the same % and still dropping plenty of dimes. The more Peja plays for the Mav's the more I love the fact that we picked him up. I said it was a good deal not a great deal but with his production as of late it might have been a great STEAL even. The Mav's had another win tonight with Dirk scoring 23 with 6 other players in double figures. Chandler had a ok night on the offensive end but still had 10 boards and him scoring in the 15-20 range is just a bonus for the Mav's he is there for his defense, obviously he has offensive upside especially with a PG like Kidd who can get him the ball at the rim. Also am glad tha Roddy B. is back he will be a great addition for our post season push, especially if it has to be without Butler.
There are two games tomorrow so we will get these pick out of the way quickly. The Heat travel to Chicago to take on the Bulls who had a tough loss tonight. I know the Bulls are great at home and are going to want to prove that loss last night was just rust from the All-Star break. They also want to show people they are a team to watch out for in the East it's not just the Heat and the Celtics. With the Bulls now having both Boozer and Noah I think they will surprise the Heat tomorrow and get the W. The Celtics travel to Denver to take on the new Nuggets, the problem for the Nuggets is the Celtics will be to big for them. I am taking the Celtics over the new Nuggets even though I like what the Nuggets got in return for Melo and I really like the upside of Ty Lawson.
Strasburg of the Nationals who had tommy john surgery last year has started throwing forom 45 feet at spring training which is a good sign of things to come. Will he pitch in 2011 is the big question, I would really hope so, after seeing him in person in college I have become a huge fan and really want to see him succeed like he did at the start of last year. He is great for the game and great for the Nationals who if they had him in the rotation could be a lot better then years past. Especially with the new power in Werth and their last year #1 over all pick Harper. I am excited to see how he fairs this year as well.
There are two games tomorrow so we will get these pick out of the way quickly. The Heat travel to Chicago to take on the Bulls who had a tough loss tonight. I know the Bulls are great at home and are going to want to prove that loss last night was just rust from the All-Star break. They also want to show people they are a team to watch out for in the East it's not just the Heat and the Celtics. With the Bulls now having both Boozer and Noah I think they will surprise the Heat tomorrow and get the W. The Celtics travel to Denver to take on the new Nuggets, the problem for the Nuggets is the Celtics will be to big for them. I am taking the Celtics over the new Nuggets even though I like what the Nuggets got in return for Melo and I really like the upside of Ty Lawson.
Strasburg of the Nationals who had tommy john surgery last year has started throwing forom 45 feet at spring training which is a good sign of things to come. Will he pitch in 2011 is the big question, I would really hope so, after seeing him in person in college I have become a huge fan and really want to see him succeed like he did at the start of last year. He is great for the game and great for the Nationals who if they had him in the rotation could be a lot better then years past. Especially with the new power in Werth and their last year #1 over all pick Harper. I am excited to see how he fairs this year as well.
Traders
All the Melo drama is finally over, the Knicks finally got the 2nd piece to their three piece puzzle. The first piece was supposed to be LeBron James, but that didn't happen so they wen't and got the next best thing in Amare. Now I know they shipped a lot of their young talent to Denver in exchange for Melo, i.e. Gallinari, Felton, Mozgoz, and Chandler, that is what the Nuggets got from the Knicks along with 1 first round draft pick and 2 second round draft picks, the T-Wolves got Anthony Randolph, Eddy Curry and $3 Million cash, the Knicks got Melo, Billups, Sheldon Williams, Anthony Carter, Renaldo Balkman, and Corey Brewer. To me the Knicks came out on top big time, not only did they land Melo and upgrade there, but to me they upgraded at the PG position too. I know that Felton looked great this year for the Knicks but I think that was more the system then it was his talent, plus Billups have played in 8 conference finals has a finals MVP and a championship ring, as well as a gold medal. He is 34 and getting old but he won't be there for long, I'm think the end of this year MAYBE next year. But the Knicks are not really worried about if he stays or goes. They made this move for the future so they would have a shot at landing either CP3, Dwight Howard, or Deron Williams. Well so much for D-Williams as he signed with the Nets this morning, why he went from bad to worse is beyond me. The rumor is that CP3 is the one the Knicks want and the Knicks is what CP3 wants, or at least thats what they three of them toasted to at a wedding they were all (meaning Melo, Amare, and CP3) at this summer. I know that back in the day Jordan wouldn't have called up Magic, but still every team that has won it has had at least 2 superstars. Also some people say that this is bad for the league cause now it makes it top heavy and only a certain number or teams will be able to actually compete. To me the league has always been like that though, you always know the 4-6 teams that will have a legit shot at the title maybe a few more give or take. To me this trade is great for the Knicks it couldn't have been better, with the big 3 in Miami they were the sure power house in the East in years to come along with the Bulls, and Magic if they don't lose Howard. Now the Knicks have climbed right up there with them, I believe they can even compete this year with their big 3 they have now in Billups, Amare, and Melo mainly because they have one thing the Heat don't have and thats a great PG. I am not saying they win it all this year but they might just sneak out of the first round, although probably not cause they would most likely play the Bulls, and I think the Bulls are the darkhorse of this offseason. If the Knicks really wanted to have a big three I say they draft a PG and go for Howard but then you risk having a horrible point, but now you at least play some defense.
Anyways yesterday I wasn't able to get on to make my picks so here are my picks for tonights games. The Rockets travel to play the Cav's tonight, while the Rockets played last night I still think they will come out on top over the Cav's. I know the Cav's beat the Lakers before the break but this Rockets team is solid and usually wins the games they should, even though they are on less rest I am taking the Rockets on the road. The Pistons play the Pacers tonight and while both teams played last night I think the Pacers are better team now under their new head coach I believe they only have one loss, and I think that trend continues and they win tonight at home. The locally owned Kings travel to Orlando to play the Magic, and the Kings played last night and the Magic are just a better team so I am taking the home team in this one also. The Wizards travel to play the Sixers, who are having a great second half. We all know the Wizards aren't the same team on the road as they are at home, also they played last night as well so I will go with the Sixers. The Thunder travel to San Antonio to play the league leading Spurs. This is a tough one for me, the Thunder played last night so I have to give the edge to the Spurs but something inside me is telling me to pick the Thunder but I don't see the Spurs losing back-to-back games, so I will once again go with the home team, but this one could go either way. The Bulls travel to Canada to play the Raptors who had a game last night while the Bulls got to rest. That being said I am taking the road team especially because the Bulls will finally be a full strength tonight with Noah in the lineup I can't wait to see the new healthy Bulls. The Bucks travel to New York to take on the new and improved Knicks, now I know that I said the Knicks have to earn my picks from now on cause everytime I would pick them they would let me donw. I have a feeling things have changed so I am taking the new Knicks to roll over the Bucks. The Grizzlies travel to play the T-Wolves, and without Rudy Gay who injured his shoulder and is out for 4 weeks possibly the whole season if the Grizzlies are out of the playoffs by the time he comes back. For those of you who don't read often Gay is on my fantasy team and is a key player on it in fact. Well last night I had to drop him from my team reading that the chances of him coming back this season are slim, where am I goin with this you ask? Well from now on I am picking against the Grizzlies every game no matter what cause I don't want Rudy Gay to come back cause if he does he won't be on my team for the playoffs and I'll be very mad to keep it rated PG. So I take the T-Wolves over the Grizzlies tonight (although if your betting on this game or something I would take the Grizzlies). The Jazz travel to Dallas to play the Mavericks and now they are without Williams but with youth and a little more size I will STILL take the Mav's over them especially cause everyone has seen the Jazz on the road this year, plus the Mav's are looking to make a second half push to TRY and catch the Spurs, if they continue to play the way they are now I think that catching the Spurs is possible. The Hawks are on the road to play the Suns and while the Suns have the fresher legs and are at home I think the Hawks will pull this one off. Last night was an off night for ATL, tonight they will be more focused and come away with the win. The Clippers v. the Hornets, and while the Clippers were impressive I think they are still without their leading scorer so it will be tough for them to get a W against a team like the Hornets. I will take the home team but must see B.G. will have a great night again. I think that once Blake Griffin rounds out his game and gets a jumper and better defense he will be at least a top 10 player in the league, I can't wait to see where this kids work ethic and talent take him. The Lakers travel to Portland to play the Blazers, to me this is a great game for the Lakers to make a statement hey were not the same team as before the break we are now serious and dialed in and ready for our 3-peat. You might be wondering how it could be a statement game when it's not against a powerhouse team, well the Blazers are actually a good team especially when they are at home and especially the way Aldrige has been playing. I am taking the Lakers to make that statement and come away with a win here. I know last night was a great win for L.A. beating a good team by a lot, FINALLY Bynum played how I want him to play the rest of the way. Granted he only scored 5 points but that was on 3 shots. He did however have 15 rebounds and 3 blocks, that is exactly what the Lakers need out of him, maybe a few more points, but when the roll players actually come to play then you don't NEED him to score 20, obviously it'd be great to feed him and Gasol all night in the low post and they could, but maybe they need their shooters to get their confidence back last night and that's what they did.
A quick baseball note here, a team I would look out for this year would be the Reds, obviously they did good last year till the end of the season. But with Wainright out with a significant injury to his elbow, and the Reds starting rotation only getting better with time and experience, and the reigning MVP at 1B, I look for the Reds to make some noise, as long as they stay healthy and can get some offensive production from their whole lineup. Obviously everyones darkhorse this year is the A's with all the upgrades they made to their pitching staff as well as their lineup adding Matsui, add returning catcher Suzuki who I think will only improve on his impressive season from last year. Another team that you might watch out for this year is the Brewers...yes those Brewers they too have added to their rotation and have power to go along with it. This is the most excited I have been for a baseball season to start since before the steroid era.
I couldn't make it to the Lobo game yesterday I am trying to go to todays game. They lost yesterday due to a bull pen collapse. They are a young team these are things we are going to have to deal with for this year when playing senior teams such as ASU and even NMSU. Still we have great young talent and the future is looking bright for the Lobos.
Anyways yesterday I wasn't able to get on to make my picks so here are my picks for tonights games. The Rockets travel to play the Cav's tonight, while the Rockets played last night I still think they will come out on top over the Cav's. I know the Cav's beat the Lakers before the break but this Rockets team is solid and usually wins the games they should, even though they are on less rest I am taking the Rockets on the road. The Pistons play the Pacers tonight and while both teams played last night I think the Pacers are better team now under their new head coach I believe they only have one loss, and I think that trend continues and they win tonight at home. The locally owned Kings travel to Orlando to play the Magic, and the Kings played last night and the Magic are just a better team so I am taking the home team in this one also. The Wizards travel to play the Sixers, who are having a great second half. We all know the Wizards aren't the same team on the road as they are at home, also they played last night as well so I will go with the Sixers. The Thunder travel to San Antonio to play the league leading Spurs. This is a tough one for me, the Thunder played last night so I have to give the edge to the Spurs but something inside me is telling me to pick the Thunder but I don't see the Spurs losing back-to-back games, so I will once again go with the home team, but this one could go either way. The Bulls travel to Canada to play the Raptors who had a game last night while the Bulls got to rest. That being said I am taking the road team especially because the Bulls will finally be a full strength tonight with Noah in the lineup I can't wait to see the new healthy Bulls. The Bucks travel to New York to take on the new and improved Knicks, now I know that I said the Knicks have to earn my picks from now on cause everytime I would pick them they would let me donw. I have a feeling things have changed so I am taking the new Knicks to roll over the Bucks. The Grizzlies travel to play the T-Wolves, and without Rudy Gay who injured his shoulder and is out for 4 weeks possibly the whole season if the Grizzlies are out of the playoffs by the time he comes back. For those of you who don't read often Gay is on my fantasy team and is a key player on it in fact. Well last night I had to drop him from my team reading that the chances of him coming back this season are slim, where am I goin with this you ask? Well from now on I am picking against the Grizzlies every game no matter what cause I don't want Rudy Gay to come back cause if he does he won't be on my team for the playoffs and I'll be very mad to keep it rated PG. So I take the T-Wolves over the Grizzlies tonight (although if your betting on this game or something I would take the Grizzlies). The Jazz travel to Dallas to play the Mavericks and now they are without Williams but with youth and a little more size I will STILL take the Mav's over them especially cause everyone has seen the Jazz on the road this year, plus the Mav's are looking to make a second half push to TRY and catch the Spurs, if they continue to play the way they are now I think that catching the Spurs is possible. The Hawks are on the road to play the Suns and while the Suns have the fresher legs and are at home I think the Hawks will pull this one off. Last night was an off night for ATL, tonight they will be more focused and come away with the win. The Clippers v. the Hornets, and while the Clippers were impressive I think they are still without their leading scorer so it will be tough for them to get a W against a team like the Hornets. I will take the home team but must see B.G. will have a great night again. I think that once Blake Griffin rounds out his game and gets a jumper and better defense he will be at least a top 10 player in the league, I can't wait to see where this kids work ethic and talent take him. The Lakers travel to Portland to play the Blazers, to me this is a great game for the Lakers to make a statement hey were not the same team as before the break we are now serious and dialed in and ready for our 3-peat. You might be wondering how it could be a statement game when it's not against a powerhouse team, well the Blazers are actually a good team especially when they are at home and especially the way Aldrige has been playing. I am taking the Lakers to make that statement and come away with a win here. I know last night was a great win for L.A. beating a good team by a lot, FINALLY Bynum played how I want him to play the rest of the way. Granted he only scored 5 points but that was on 3 shots. He did however have 15 rebounds and 3 blocks, that is exactly what the Lakers need out of him, maybe a few more points, but when the roll players actually come to play then you don't NEED him to score 20, obviously it'd be great to feed him and Gasol all night in the low post and they could, but maybe they need their shooters to get their confidence back last night and that's what they did.
A quick baseball note here, a team I would look out for this year would be the Reds, obviously they did good last year till the end of the season. But with Wainright out with a significant injury to his elbow, and the Reds starting rotation only getting better with time and experience, and the reigning MVP at 1B, I look for the Reds to make some noise, as long as they stay healthy and can get some offensive production from their whole lineup. Obviously everyones darkhorse this year is the A's with all the upgrades they made to their pitching staff as well as their lineup adding Matsui, add returning catcher Suzuki who I think will only improve on his impressive season from last year. Another team that you might watch out for this year is the Brewers...yes those Brewers they too have added to their rotation and have power to go along with it. This is the most excited I have been for a baseball season to start since before the steroid era.
I couldn't make it to the Lobo game yesterday I am trying to go to todays game. They lost yesterday due to a bull pen collapse. They are a young team these are things we are going to have to deal with for this year when playing senior teams such as ASU and even NMSU. Still we have great young talent and the future is looking bright for the Lobos.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Dunk Face
This past weekend there wasn't much sports as far as many games go. But there was the best dunk contest we have seen in awhile, as well as one of the most talented all star cast we have seen since the Jordan era. I know that maybe Blake got a little hometown love in the dunk contest, and that there were A LOT of great dunks, but I still think Blakes off the backboard arm in the rim dunk was tied for #1. There was a 3 way #1 tie if you ask me, Ibaka's LEGIT freethrow line jump, Mcgee's 2 rim dunk, and Griffins arm in the rim dunk. Had Blake gotten the original 2nd dunk he was trying then he would have been the clear cut winner but he had to settle for a slightly easier dunk, a dunk that was similar to DeRozans first dunk. I had a feeling that Kobe would be Kobe and grad his 4th MVP, mainly because he is one of the only guys left that legit hates to lose like Jordan did. I know guys like LBJ want to win a ring and all but I don't think the younger stars coming up in the game really have that won't lose state of mind. I guess LBJ has it but he just loses so much when it counts, but now that he has D-Wade we will see what happens.
As far as baseball goes, as I mentioned before the Rangers were going to try and stretch out Rookie of the year Neftali Feliz to a starter. Well as of the last time Rangers pitching coach Mike Maddux saw him throw he was really impressed with how good his change up was, he threw to Hamilton, Cruz, and Murphy and fooled at least a one of them with his new and improved change up. He also throws a fastball and slider, Manager Ron Washington was also impressed with what he saw from Feliz. Does this mean he will be a starter for sure, no but it is a good start if that is what he is shooting for, which to me it really seems like he is, why else would have worked so hard on improving his off speed pitches. If the Rangers outfield can stay healthy this year along with their pitching I think they have a great shot at the AL pennant. The have a great 3 headed monster at the 1B/DH position in Moreland, Young, Napoli the Rangers lineup is even more stacked then last year, they also upgraded on the defensive side of the ball, everyone is concerned about their pitching now that they lost Cliff Lee, I think they might be a slightly better team, IF they get a full year out of Webb, and if their returning pitchers can be as good as last year.
Lobo's first home game tomorrow I'll have everything that happened after the game is over as I will be there and be keeping score.
As far as baseball goes, as I mentioned before the Rangers were going to try and stretch out Rookie of the year Neftali Feliz to a starter. Well as of the last time Rangers pitching coach Mike Maddux saw him throw he was really impressed with how good his change up was, he threw to Hamilton, Cruz, and Murphy and fooled at least a one of them with his new and improved change up. He also throws a fastball and slider, Manager Ron Washington was also impressed with what he saw from Feliz. Does this mean he will be a starter for sure, no but it is a good start if that is what he is shooting for, which to me it really seems like he is, why else would have worked so hard on improving his off speed pitches. If the Rangers outfield can stay healthy this year along with their pitching I think they have a great shot at the AL pennant. The have a great 3 headed monster at the 1B/DH position in Moreland, Young, Napoli the Rangers lineup is even more stacked then last year, they also upgraded on the defensive side of the ball, everyone is concerned about their pitching now that they lost Cliff Lee, I think they might be a slightly better team, IF they get a full year out of Webb, and if their returning pitchers can be as good as last year.
Lobo's first home game tomorrow I'll have everything that happened after the game is over as I will be there and be keeping score.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
No More Ping
First I will talk quickly on the two games tonight, the first game I of course got wrong. The Spurs lost to the Bulls in Chicago where the Bulls are really good. I thought that Parker would be able to stick with Rose which was foolish of me. Rose has been lights out this year and he continued to be just that tonight dropping 42 on the Spurs. Parker had a good night but when a team as good as the Bulls has someone drop 42 on you then your chances of winning are slim. Also the Bulls play great defense and I think the Spurs had a little trouble with that tonight. As for the Mavericks game goes, I couldn't have been happier, the Mav's won and Dirk had a killer night with 35 points 1 rebound 4 dimes and 1 steal. Peja also in double figures for the 3rd game in a row, he is going to be huge in their playoff run. Chandler had another 12-12 night I love the addition of Tyson Chandler and I love his production all year, maybe started a little slow in the first half but lately has been just awesome for the Mav's. Also another return I am super pumped about is that of Roddy B. last night he had a better game but tonight you could see how explosive he can be and what he brings to the table. If we need another scorer I have the feeling if given the shots he could be that guy. But then again so could Stevenson, Terry. Marion, anyone pretty much on the Mav's could carry them in scoring given the shots and minutes. I know some people say once you get into the playoffs its more of an 8 man roster instead of 10 but I don't see how the Mav's depth could possibly be anything but good come post season time, especially if Butler somehow makes it back. I know that Roddy B. only had 9 points tonight but if you watched the game you know what I am talking about. I am excited to see what this Mav's team can do in the post season as I said yesterday this team to me is the team that will get it done in the post season. A reason I like to talk about the Mav's and their chances isn't cause they are my favorite team, which they are, but its cause they get no love from no one. I hear people give the Heat mad love but say they aren't gunna make the finals and they mention the Heat as one of the best teams in the NBA along with the Lakers which they are but no one ever says the Mav's and at this point you HAVE to put them up there with the Heat and Celtics, Spurs, Lakers, and Bulls. I am also really excited about this Bulls team, they just beat the Spurs without Noah, he comes back next week and I can't wait to see what the Bulls look like with Boozer, Noah, and Rose.
Ok I have been talking a lot of baseball lately, and I will continue that right here with this section. Only today I am going to talk college baseabll. This year they have a new bat that has A LOT less pop and will reduce power numbers DRASTICALLY. To me this is a great thing, to long has the college game been about the home run, and too long have the numbers been ridiculous, I am glad I won't see anymore 32-20 scores from now on. Also this makes it actual baseball, some may call it small ball, but I love a good pitchers duel and I am pretty sure if your a baseball fan you do too, especially cause I know most of you reading and if you like baseball chances are you were on my baseball team at one point. Anyways these new bats have to be an advantage for our Lobos, who have lost most of their big bats from the previous years. This year we are a young club picked to finishes 4th in the mountain west. I know that we lost a lot of key guys like Brian Cavazos-Galvez, Courcha, Gonzalez, Honeycutt, Neda...The list goes on and on, I know we are going to be a younger and less power driven team but I still think we can compete in the MWC, they have a lot of young talented pitching coming in from Cali. and Texas as well as local. I have high hopes for our Lobo baseball team as I do every year. A lot more on Lobo baseball as I go to every home game that I can, I'll try and talk to the players this year and get as much inside info as I can. I will be keeping score at the games so I can give you stat updates to the fullest, if anyone is interested in helping out with the get at me on facebook.
Ok I have been talking a lot of baseball lately, and I will continue that right here with this section. Only today I am going to talk college baseabll. This year they have a new bat that has A LOT less pop and will reduce power numbers DRASTICALLY. To me this is a great thing, to long has the college game been about the home run, and too long have the numbers been ridiculous, I am glad I won't see anymore 32-20 scores from now on. Also this makes it actual baseball, some may call it small ball, but I love a good pitchers duel and I am pretty sure if your a baseball fan you do too, especially cause I know most of you reading and if you like baseball chances are you were on my baseball team at one point. Anyways these new bats have to be an advantage for our Lobos, who have lost most of their big bats from the previous years. This year we are a young club picked to finishes 4th in the mountain west. I know that we lost a lot of key guys like Brian Cavazos-Galvez, Courcha, Gonzalez, Honeycutt, Neda...The list goes on and on, I know we are going to be a younger and less power driven team but I still think we can compete in the MWC, they have a lot of young talented pitching coming in from Cali. and Texas as well as local. I have high hopes for our Lobo baseball team as I do every year. A lot more on Lobo baseball as I go to every home game that I can, I'll try and talk to the players this year and get as much inside info as I can. I will be keeping score at the games so I can give you stat updates to the fullest, if anyone is interested in helping out with the get at me on facebook.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Time to panic in L.A.?
After their 3rd loss in a row and a loss to the leagues worst team the Cav's I think it might be time for us to take another look at these Lakers. We aren't talking about a lack of talent or health but a lack of will! That's right the 2 time defending champs seem like they don't want to be here. I know that last year they were in a similar situtation where they lost 3 games in a row including a 15 point loss to the Bobcats which is much like their recent 20 point loss to the same team. The one big difference is todays loss. I know it was the last game of their road trip but how can you beat a team by 50 earlier in the year and then LOSS to them after they gave the Wizards their first road win, after they lost 37 of their last 39 games, then the Lakers let them win. The Lakers had the lead in the 4th and they really didn't have much of a lead I guess the lead was at 10 at one point but there was plenty of time left for a team as talented as the Lakers to make a come back. This was a new low for the Lakers and really Pau played just how I wish he would play for the rest of the year with 30 points and 20 boards also added 3 dimes as well. Kobe on the other had needed 24 shots to get 17 points, the Lakers need ALL their players to play great all the time, or they at least need Bynum and Gasol to have big games all the time, as well as need Kobe contribute at least 20. That being said they can still win if one of them doesn't have a great game but they will need their bench to step up especially Brown and Odom. Odom needs to go back to the way he was playing at the start of the season, it seem Pau has done that. Now if Bynum could be to the Lakers what Tyson Chandler is to the Mav's only a little more on the offensive side, then things would be great. The Lakers need to either trade Artest for whatever they can get or someone needs to set him straight cause he obviously doesn't care if he is hurting the team and he is only 1 point tonight obviously he only played 18 minutes and the Lakers did have 20 turnover, still they are good enough to beat the Cav's with 20 turn over they just need everyone to show up and play. I was seriously stunned that the Lakers couldn't pull the come back off this is a bad sign I know they have a lot of talent but it seems that their roll players are not up to par and that could end up hurting them. Maybe once the playoff start we will see a new Fisher (who actually had a good night tonight scoring 19) as well as a more dominate Bynum. If the Lakers can get 110% out of Bynum, Gasol, Kobe, Odom, and Fisher then they have a shot at the 3-peat but those 5 can't do it alone they will need the bench to chip in here and there thats just how the playoffs work. Now there couldn't be a better to make a case that this could be the year the Mav's actually bring their regular season success into the post season and contend for the Western Conference Finals. Tonight Dirk only took 10 shots and the Mav's still came away with the easy W. Finally Peja is starting to get it going again and figure out his place in the offense. Also tonight they got back Roddy B who went for 13 points 3 steals 6 dimes and 1 rebound tonight in only 21 minutes, another huge addition to the Mav's bench. Now that the Mav's are a balanced team and not just all offense all the time I think they have a real shot at taking the West. I mean they have beat the Lakers already this year, and when the Mav's and Spurs met with both teams at full strength the Mav's ended the Spurs 12 game win streak (I am not sure on the exact number on that win streak but I am almost postive it was 12) they have the depth to save Kidds legs for the playoffs and they just might get lucky and Butler will be ready for the postseason. I know that the Spurs will be a big hurdle for them like they always are, but this is a totally different Mav's team then the team that got housed by the Spurs last year in the post season.
Anyways lets forget about my picks from yesterday here are my picks for tomorrow its easy there are only two games. The Spurs travel to Chicago to play the Bulls and while the Bulls are great at home I think the Spurs will come away with the W, Parker has been mediocore lately and is due for a big outting, he isn't as quick as Rose but will guard him a little better them a lot of PG's do cause they both love to drive and score in the teeth of defenses. The other game the Mavs travel to paly the Suns and I think the Mav's even though they played tonight will come away with the W.
Ok so I know that with all the moves the Red Sox made in the off season a lot people have them as the favorite to come out of the AL this year. I can see that but there are 3 huge question marks in their roatation, I know I have heard from some people that usually Beckett alternates good year with bad year and last year wasn't that great so this year were in for 17 wins and a sub 3 ear. I just don't see that to me the last two years have been iffy I know the year before last not so much but towards the end is where he lost it. If I were a Sox fan, which I do root for them they aren't my favorite team but I do like them, I would be concerned with that. Obviously another big qeustion mark is Daisuke Matsuzaka who was great the first two years but has really struggled as of late. What Daisuke do we see this year, obviously a much healthier one so one would argue he will be the Daisuke of old. Last but not least is John Lackey, although he had 14 W's last year if you look into the stats things weren't so great, well I guess that was mostly the front half of the season as he seemed to figure it out at the end. but he is a fly ball pitcher and in a hitter friendly ball park, also he has been more agressive with his fastball which also could spell trouble in an hitter friendly park. I know that the Soxed up the defense in the outfield and really improved on their lineup, I still think their pitching rotation has just as many question marks if not more then that of the Texas Rangers. I know that Brandon Webb has not been able to be healthy for the past 2 season but lets not forget the last 3 seasons this guy DID pitch he was an all start in 2 and won the Cy Young award so if he stays healthy which the Rangers are hoping he does then, I see the Rangers with a very strong front 3 in their rotation, people that have seen him think he is much more confident which is huge for a pitcher and also has some of his umph back on his fastball but says himself he uses it a little less and his change up is his strike out pitch, and he will break a few cruveballs off just to keep people honest. If all those pitches are working for him like he needs them to then he will be money well spent. That is the beautiful thing about his contract he is only guaranteed $3 million but has the potential to make $8 million depending on how many innings he actually pitches.
Anyways lets forget about my picks from yesterday here are my picks for tomorrow its easy there are only two games. The Spurs travel to Chicago to play the Bulls and while the Bulls are great at home I think the Spurs will come away with the W, Parker has been mediocore lately and is due for a big outting, he isn't as quick as Rose but will guard him a little better them a lot of PG's do cause they both love to drive and score in the teeth of defenses. The other game the Mavs travel to paly the Suns and I think the Mav's even though they played tonight will come away with the W.
Ok so I know that with all the moves the Red Sox made in the off season a lot people have them as the favorite to come out of the AL this year. I can see that but there are 3 huge question marks in their roatation, I know I have heard from some people that usually Beckett alternates good year with bad year and last year wasn't that great so this year were in for 17 wins and a sub 3 ear. I just don't see that to me the last two years have been iffy I know the year before last not so much but towards the end is where he lost it. If I were a Sox fan, which I do root for them they aren't my favorite team but I do like them, I would be concerned with that. Obviously another big qeustion mark is Daisuke Matsuzaka who was great the first two years but has really struggled as of late. What Daisuke do we see this year, obviously a much healthier one so one would argue he will be the Daisuke of old. Last but not least is John Lackey, although he had 14 W's last year if you look into the stats things weren't so great, well I guess that was mostly the front half of the season as he seemed to figure it out at the end. but he is a fly ball pitcher and in a hitter friendly ball park, also he has been more agressive with his fastball which also could spell trouble in an hitter friendly park. I know that the Soxed up the defense in the outfield and really improved on their lineup, I still think their pitching rotation has just as many question marks if not more then that of the Texas Rangers. I know that Brandon Webb has not been able to be healthy for the past 2 season but lets not forget the last 3 seasons this guy DID pitch he was an all start in 2 and won the Cy Young award so if he stays healthy which the Rangers are hoping he does then, I see the Rangers with a very strong front 3 in their rotation, people that have seen him think he is much more confident which is huge for a pitcher and also has some of his umph back on his fastball but says himself he uses it a little less and his change up is his strike out pitch, and he will break a few cruveballs off just to keep people honest. If all those pitches are working for him like he needs them to then he will be money well spent. That is the beautiful thing about his contract he is only guaranteed $3 million but has the potential to make $8 million depending on how many innings he actually pitches.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Back on track
I knew all it would take was some focus and double checking and doing what I needed to do to get back to my winning ways. Of course there is still one game going on, the Hornets v. Warriors game. The game I sat there and talked myself out of picking the Warriors to win, even though they are up by 11 at the end of the 3rd quarter so lets hope the Hornets can make a come back even though I knew I should have picked the Warriors. The Heat almost blew a 24 point lead against the Pacers but Wade exploded for 41 points and 12 rebounds. Bosh had I believe 22 and 8 rebounds, LBJ had 27 points the big 3 scored 90 of the Heats 110 points. I still think Bosh will need to start grabbing at LEAST 10 boards a game for them to do any good in the playoffs. The Sixers made a come back on the Grizzlies to make it a game but the Grizzlies held them off for the W.
On to tomorrows picks the Wizards travel to Orlando to play the Magic. Now I know the Wizards won their first road game during the weekend against the Cav's but they won't make it 2 in a row especially after the Magic are coming off the win against the Lakers. Some may think they will over look the Wizards but I think the way Howard is playing if they can get just someone to have some sort of outside shot they will have this one in the bag. The Heat v. the Raptors in Toronto while the Heat played tonight I still think they have what it takes to beat the Raptors. This is a game the Heat should win and usually they are really good in those games. I hope I did not just jinx them by saying that but I think they are good as long as the big 3 keep playing like they did tonight with a few more boards from Bosh of course. The Nets v. the Celtics at Boston the Celtics are coming off the huge win over the Heat and while they were struggling before that with the injuries I think they will get a spark from their last game and will use it to get a few more W's in a row tomorrow will be 2. The Lakers travel to play the Cav's and while they have not shown up the last 2 games I fully expect them to make another statement against the Cav's. I remember last time they played the Cav's they were having the same problems as they are now and people were saying the same things about them. Lets hope they come out tomorrow and win by 60 lol! The Pacers travel to play the Pistons and after coming offa tough loss tonight to the Heat and then having to travel to play the Pistons at home where the Pistons are pretty good, I am going to have to go with the home team here. The Hawks travel to New York to take on the Knicks, Amare will play tomorrow which will make it harder for the Hawks to win. But that being said I think this would be a good win for the Hawks obviously they got a win after that buzzer beater loss but still I think this is a good statement win for them on the road and I look for them to capitalize on the chance to remind people they are good. The Clippers are still on the road tomorrow they play the T-Wolves and since the Blakers have been letting me down lately and I think Love might give Griffin a little trouble I am going to take the T-Wolves over the Blakers tomorrow. The Kings travel to Dallas to play the Mav's where the Mav's will keep up their winning ways putting that ridiculous buzzer beater loss behind them and starting a brand new win streak that will hopefully soon be at double digits once again. This next game is a tough one the Sixers travel to Houston to play the Rockets but since the Sixers play a hard fought game tonight and have to travel and play a really good Rockets team I am taking the rested Rockets. The Nuggets are on the road to play the Bucks and after that disapointing loss I don't think the Nuggets wanna do that again so I look for Melo and Bilups to have great games in the win over the Bucks. The Warriors travel to Utah to play the Jazz, where the Jazz are not bad. Well compared to what they are on the road which is horrible, anyways both teams played tonight the Warriors had the late game though but still I am taking the Warriors to upset the Jazz tomorrow. The Hornets travel to Portland to take on the Blazers, and the Hornets had the late game tonight have to travel and play a really underrated Blazers team. Also since Aldrige only had 21 points last game he is due to drop like 40-50 points so watch out Hornets.
Ok so today lets talk about a team I mentioned yesterday but only for a split second can you guess who it is.....I'll give you a hint they are worse off this year then last year.....THATS RIGHT the Tampa Bay Rays! I mean seriously they dumped like half their roster! Lol obviously not literally but just about. All that they lost and what do they do to fix it, get the last two free agents available to them in Thing 1 and Thing 2 a.k.a Man-Ram and Damon. I think they downgraded this year and will be back to the Rays of old. Their fans will finally have a reason to not show up again. Except for when Price is pitching cause then they might have a shot to win the game, but oh wait it doesn't matter if they win all their games they still wouldn't sell tickets! Not only did they lose big position players but pretty much their whole bullpen is gone as well things are not looking to good for the Rays this year. I have been taking some heat for saying that Feliz will make it as a starter, which I never said it was a for sure thing I said IF it happened it'd be great. Also I guess some people think that the A's have a better shot at the AL West then the Rangers, and to them I say YEAH RIGHT! It will be close the A's did get a lot of good pitching but they only got one bat and I just don't know it that will be enough in the AL. Lets talk about the Rangers for a second, I know losing Lee will hurt them and I know Webbs arm ins't what it used to be but who am I to say he can't have a productive year. Also Hurley is a darkhorse to be a great pitcher for them this year like I stated yesterday. Anyways with their new lineup they only need 3 quality starters who can give them quality innings. They don't need to have 4 aces in order to do what they did last year in their division. I am not sure that they would be able to get past the new and improved Red Sox in the ALCS IF either team makes it that far, but if they do the Rangers are my team so I still think they'd pull it off! They made their defense so much better adding Beltre and Napoli who will probably switch from 1B to DH with Moreland and Young. I know that Young doesn't wanna be a full time DH but as the Rangers have said he won't be. It will be more like a super utility/DH meaning he would play most likely everywhere including some out field if I'm not mistaken. This could be a great thing for the Rangers if he sticks around and that's what he ends up doing. Because my biggest concern for the Rangers is what if Hamilton or Cruz goes down again, well if Young stays its not such a concern. The Twins seem to be the favorite in the AL Central I know Morneau still has yet to recover but if he eases into it in the spring things should be fine for him and the Twins this year.
On to tomorrows picks the Wizards travel to Orlando to play the Magic. Now I know the Wizards won their first road game during the weekend against the Cav's but they won't make it 2 in a row especially after the Magic are coming off the win against the Lakers. Some may think they will over look the Wizards but I think the way Howard is playing if they can get just someone to have some sort of outside shot they will have this one in the bag. The Heat v. the Raptors in Toronto while the Heat played tonight I still think they have what it takes to beat the Raptors. This is a game the Heat should win and usually they are really good in those games. I hope I did not just jinx them by saying that but I think they are good as long as the big 3 keep playing like they did tonight with a few more boards from Bosh of course. The Nets v. the Celtics at Boston the Celtics are coming off the huge win over the Heat and while they were struggling before that with the injuries I think they will get a spark from their last game and will use it to get a few more W's in a row tomorrow will be 2. The Lakers travel to play the Cav's and while they have not shown up the last 2 games I fully expect them to make another statement against the Cav's. I remember last time they played the Cav's they were having the same problems as they are now and people were saying the same things about them. Lets hope they come out tomorrow and win by 60 lol! The Pacers travel to play the Pistons and after coming offa tough loss tonight to the Heat and then having to travel to play the Pistons at home where the Pistons are pretty good, I am going to have to go with the home team here. The Hawks travel to New York to take on the Knicks, Amare will play tomorrow which will make it harder for the Hawks to win. But that being said I think this would be a good win for the Hawks obviously they got a win after that buzzer beater loss but still I think this is a good statement win for them on the road and I look for them to capitalize on the chance to remind people they are good. The Clippers are still on the road tomorrow they play the T-Wolves and since the Blakers have been letting me down lately and I think Love might give Griffin a little trouble I am going to take the T-Wolves over the Blakers tomorrow. The Kings travel to Dallas to play the Mav's where the Mav's will keep up their winning ways putting that ridiculous buzzer beater loss behind them and starting a brand new win streak that will hopefully soon be at double digits once again. This next game is a tough one the Sixers travel to Houston to play the Rockets but since the Sixers play a hard fought game tonight and have to travel and play a really good Rockets team I am taking the rested Rockets. The Nuggets are on the road to play the Bucks and after that disapointing loss I don't think the Nuggets wanna do that again so I look for Melo and Bilups to have great games in the win over the Bucks. The Warriors travel to Utah to play the Jazz, where the Jazz are not bad. Well compared to what they are on the road which is horrible, anyways both teams played tonight the Warriors had the late game though but still I am taking the Warriors to upset the Jazz tomorrow. The Hornets travel to Portland to take on the Blazers, and the Hornets had the late game tonight have to travel and play a really underrated Blazers team. Also since Aldrige only had 21 points last game he is due to drop like 40-50 points so watch out Hornets.
Ok so today lets talk about a team I mentioned yesterday but only for a split second can you guess who it is.....I'll give you a hint they are worse off this year then last year.....THATS RIGHT the Tampa Bay Rays! I mean seriously they dumped like half their roster! Lol obviously not literally but just about. All that they lost and what do they do to fix it, get the last two free agents available to them in Thing 1 and Thing 2 a.k.a Man-Ram and Damon. I think they downgraded this year and will be back to the Rays of old. Their fans will finally have a reason to not show up again. Except for when Price is pitching cause then they might have a shot to win the game, but oh wait it doesn't matter if they win all their games they still wouldn't sell tickets! Not only did they lose big position players but pretty much their whole bullpen is gone as well things are not looking to good for the Rays this year. I have been taking some heat for saying that Feliz will make it as a starter, which I never said it was a for sure thing I said IF it happened it'd be great. Also I guess some people think that the A's have a better shot at the AL West then the Rangers, and to them I say YEAH RIGHT! It will be close the A's did get a lot of good pitching but they only got one bat and I just don't know it that will be enough in the AL. Lets talk about the Rangers for a second, I know losing Lee will hurt them and I know Webbs arm ins't what it used to be but who am I to say he can't have a productive year. Also Hurley is a darkhorse to be a great pitcher for them this year like I stated yesterday. Anyways with their new lineup they only need 3 quality starters who can give them quality innings. They don't need to have 4 aces in order to do what they did last year in their division. I am not sure that they would be able to get past the new and improved Red Sox in the ALCS IF either team makes it that far, but if they do the Rangers are my team so I still think they'd pull it off! They made their defense so much better adding Beltre and Napoli who will probably switch from 1B to DH with Moreland and Young. I know that Young doesn't wanna be a full time DH but as the Rangers have said he won't be. It will be more like a super utility/DH meaning he would play most likely everywhere including some out field if I'm not mistaken. This could be a great thing for the Rangers if he sticks around and that's what he ends up doing. Because my biggest concern for the Rangers is what if Hamilton or Cruz goes down again, well if Young stays its not such a concern. The Twins seem to be the favorite in the AL Central I know Morneau still has yet to recover but if he eases into it in the spring things should be fine for him and the Twins this year.
Check check
Real fast since I went all crazy with what is wrong with the Heat last night I figure I will put my 2 cents in on the Lakers as well. The biggest thing to me from the last game was the fact that Ron Artest took 11 shots which wouldn't be that bad except for the fact that, that was almost as many shots as Bynum and Gasol had put together, Gasol had 9 Bynum had 6 this to me makes no sense especially against a team like the Bobcats where the Lakers obviously had the size advantage. Also they didn't really pick Artest up for his offense more cause he is a defensive stopper which is what they desperately need. I would rather Ron take maybe 7 shots but have 3 steals a couple blocks, shutting people down like he did last year holding them to single digits or 15 points at the most. He used to be proud of how good of a defender he was but who knows what is going on out there on planet Ron. Obviously Kobe was sick and that didn't help things, and I say everyday how I think Gasol and Bynum should try and be 20-10 guys so I won't beat a dead horse and keep talking about that. But something I noticed is that this bench is by far the weakest bench the Lakers have had since I can remember. Honestly I am really glad the Mav's got Peja but really the Lakers could have used him as well. We know that they are the weakest beyond the arc that they have been in years, so why in the world take so many outside shots especially when no one has been knocking them down and they have such good big men? I know that Odom is having a good year but has been cold lately and I know he will be better come playoff time but they will need Brown and Fisher AND Blake to all step up and all of them will need to do better then 0-? from beyond the arc. Also I touched on this a little bit in my post yesterday about how they look like the Lakers from the start of the season what I really ment by that was the effort they have put out the last couple nights was not 100% lets just say that....I know this hasn't been a perfect recap of why the Lakers aren't winning but still. I really want Bynum and Gasol to start playing like Dwight Howard or Kevin Love if they did that the Lakers would be unstoppable period end of story.
The $300,000,000 Man
Let me ask you this real quick...If the economy wasn't where it is right now would this Pujols contract seem so ludacris? I think we can all agree that he is the best player playing the game right now if not in the top 3 that is for sure. Also he is WAYY better then A-Rod who is currently the highest paid player per year i think it's something like $27.5 million a year. I know that maybe ten years is a stretch since Pujols is already 31 years old and would be 41 at the end of a 10 year deal. I know that when getting into the later years of your 30's could spell trouble for power hitter. But this is a guy who never did steroids, how obviously keeps amazingly great care of his body, and who is one of the best left handed hitters of all time. If Jim Thome can produce in his 40's I don't see why Pujols wouldn't be able to as well. All that being said I still wouldn't give him the 10 year deal, I would however give him the $30 million a year for 7 years with maybe an option for 1 or 2 more for maybe lets say $19 million a year with added cash for a certain number of plate appearances, certain number of homeruns, batting average and then obviously the usual MVP, or homeruns in the playoffs those types of incentives in the two year option part just so that way if he still deserves the 25-30 million a year he will earn it in a time where he most likely will be less consistent. I mean if the Cardinals fail to get a deal done with Pujols it would be like the Yankees not getting Jeter back, only much worse for the club as far as production goes. There is no way that the Cardinals lineup is half as effective without Pujols in it than it is with him. I know that there are not many teams out there who can afford Pujols that need a first baseman, but a lot can happen in a year, people get hurt or traded or stop producing you never know. I know that you and I think that $30 million a year is ridiculous but if anyone should be the highest paid player in baseball it should be Pujols. The guys a machine let me just throw some number at you real fast, .331/.426/.624 that is batting average, on base %, and slugging % not for last season but for his 9 year career I mean are you kidding me that is out of control good. PAY THE MAN seriously I know it will be a hit to the pocket books but really if you lose Pujols there is no way you can contend especially after we saw how shaky your team is when he is in a slump imagine if he isn't there at all?
Monday, February 14, 2011
I feel the same way Mr. Jackson
Like the Lakers I too am embarrassed by my performance tonight. You will be happy to know that I figured out why I haven't been doing so great lately, I have just stopped really looking into the games like I was before. I think it was cause my weekend was kinda hectic and I haven't really had as much time as I did last week and the weeks before. That is all changing right now, cause tonights picks are going to be gold Jerry gold, gotta love Seinfeld lol! I am kind of upset at myself for picking the Lakers last night knowing for one how bad they have been recently against the Bobcats, and knowing that the Bobcats for sure had the fresh legs all signs pointed to a Bobcats victory. Also the way the Lakers played against the Magic was like they were playing back at the start of the season. Granted Bynum and Gasol had OK games the past two days but they still are not playing as hmmm lets say cutthroat as I would like them to. Also another game I am upset about is the Nuggets v. Rockets game cause again the Rockets had the fresher legs and also home court, not to mention how I keep saying they are really underrated. Then I go and pick against them. I only based my pick on the way Melo and Billups had been playing, but that was before I found out the Melo was "Taking my hat off to myself" about how he has been playing while all these distraction surrounding him. After saying something like that of course your not going to have a good night, especially when just like everyone was saying he is the reason for the distraction, he could say he is staying or say he is leaving and then it all would end for the most part. I knew that Aldrige would not lose to Kevin Love especially after he took his last chance to be an all star. I know that Aldrige had a quiet night tonight only scoring 21 points but still his team won.
Lets get to my picks for tomorrow so I can move on to baseball, and just cause I wanna move on doesn't mean I will not take my time with my picks tonight. The Heat travel to play the Pacers, and while the Heat seem to be on one of their down times I still think that tomorrow they come away with a win. I think that the Heat just like the Lakers were playing like they were at the start of the season. Obviously had a strong first half but then lost in the second half mainly the 4th quarter. First off I know LBJ missed one free throw that would have tied the game but lets calm down here guys he is 21-22 in 4th quarter free throws this season, I know he missed what could have been the biggest one of the year so far, but it did not by any means lose them the game. We knew coming into the season or at least most people knew the Heat didn't have the experience nor did they have the size to win a championship this year. The size factor is huge when playing a team like Boston, against the Magic however not as much cause they only have literally one true big man. That being said Bosh had a line in the Celtics game that I wish he had all year, I am referring to a 20-10 with a couple blocks or steals. He will have to put up those kinds of numbers in the post season for them to even have a shot. One more thing if LBJ or D-Wade isn't taking the last shot then you better be sure the guy who is taking the last shot is Eddie House cause apparently no one else can make the buzzer beaters. I really think the D-Wade should be THE guy taking the last shot for the Heat especially when LBJ is being doubled. There is a few exceptions obviously if someone else is wide open, or is LBJ is having one of those nights where everything is dropping those would be my only two exceptions for D-Wade not taking the last shot. Ok ALLLL that being said I am taking the Heat sorry I went off on a crazy tangent there really getting into the Heats LAST game instead of focusing on the one they have tomorrow. All that being said tomorrows game will be much easier and the Heat will get back to their winning ways. The Bobcats travel to Chicago to play the Bulls and since the Bobcats played tonight and have to travel and face a much better team, I am taking the Bulls to win at home where they are great. The Kings travel to OKC to play the Thunder who are coming off a tough loss to the Warriors. I think that the Thunder will bounce back with a win here, they are at home and this is a game they should win. They are a team that you can USUALLY count on to win these type of games especially at home. Kevin Durrant just gets better and better and if that Thunder core stays together I can't wait to see what they become in the next few years. The Sixers travel to Memphis to play the Grizzlies and I know that the Sixers have been having a huge second half, just like I thought they would, although I must admit I did not think it would be THIS good of a second half only dropping 3 of their last 12 games. All that being said though I am sure you all know by now how much I like the Grizzlies especially when they are on their home court where they are great, so I will go with the Grizzlies to pull it off against the Sixers. The Jazz travel to play the Suns, maybe with a new coach the Jazz will be like the Pacers and just go on a winning tear, although I don't see it starting on the road the way they have been playing on the road this season. I am taking the Suns to get a big win at home against the Jazz who just lost their coach of 23 years, I don't thin replacing him will be as easy as it was for the Pacers to replace their head coach. The Hornets travel to play the Warriors who are coming off a big home win against the Thunder. I know that the Hornets just beat the Magic and should win this game tomorrow night but for some reason something inside me is saying Warriors pick the Warriors I am having a hard time taking the Warriors though especially if the Hornets play like they did their last game, yeah I am going with the Hornets.
Ok let us talk a little baseball since spring training is officially underway with pitchers and catchers reporting. I know I have been raving about the Phillies rotation all off season and how I can't wait to see what they can do. This is true but there are some other teams who still or now have some pretty legit rotations as well. Lets take the Cubs for example, I know Zambrano was a little shaky at the start of last season, but they way he finished was amazing I believe it was 5-2 with an era under 2 if I am not mistaken which I am pretty sure I'm not. Also they added Matt Garza who won 15 games in the AL last year and who I think will thrive in the NL and could win anywhere from 15-20 games this year (knock on wood!). Speaking of Wood and moving from the AL to the NL, the Cubs also addes Kerry Wood who is now a set up man but a good on at that. I think he will only get better with the move from AL to NL and will really help the Cubs in the middle innings before turning the game over to Carlos Marmol who was lights out last year. I think those two pick ups are huge for them this year, I am not saying it makes them number 1 in the NL by any means I am just saying they did a good job adding to their pitching staff. Obviously another team who kinda flew under the radar until baseball tonight came on TV and called them the Giants of 2011, I am talking about the Oakland A's of course. They added some new pitching as well as a decent power batt, they are young fresh and good to go. I wouldn't be surprised to see the A's do well but I still see the Rangers winning the AL West. Speaking of the Rangers, I know that they lost Cliff Lee and that is a huge loss to their somewhat suspect starting rotation. If you ask me though I think that last year was just the start of what this rotation will become. They still have Hunter, Wilson, and Lewis at the top they added Webb who I am hoping bounces back nicely off an injuries last year in Arizona. The Rangers are also going to see how rookie of the year Neftali Feliz will fair as a starter, if he improved enough on his off speed pitches it would be ludacris to not give him a shot somewhere in that starting lineup after what happened to C.J. Wilson last year. With him out of the Bullpen who will close games you ask, well if you follow the Rangers you know they picked up Arthur Rhodes who most likely will be a set up man. With all the depth the Rangers have at the pitcher position finding a closer won't be that tough there are a few good candidates for the job. Well that will be all for today tomorrow I will cover more in depth instead of just talking pitching, also will talk different teams.
Lets get to my picks for tomorrow so I can move on to baseball, and just cause I wanna move on doesn't mean I will not take my time with my picks tonight. The Heat travel to play the Pacers, and while the Heat seem to be on one of their down times I still think that tomorrow they come away with a win. I think that the Heat just like the Lakers were playing like they were at the start of the season. Obviously had a strong first half but then lost in the second half mainly the 4th quarter. First off I know LBJ missed one free throw that would have tied the game but lets calm down here guys he is 21-22 in 4th quarter free throws this season, I know he missed what could have been the biggest one of the year so far, but it did not by any means lose them the game. We knew coming into the season or at least most people knew the Heat didn't have the experience nor did they have the size to win a championship this year. The size factor is huge when playing a team like Boston, against the Magic however not as much cause they only have literally one true big man. That being said Bosh had a line in the Celtics game that I wish he had all year, I am referring to a 20-10 with a couple blocks or steals. He will have to put up those kinds of numbers in the post season for them to even have a shot. One more thing if LBJ or D-Wade isn't taking the last shot then you better be sure the guy who is taking the last shot is Eddie House cause apparently no one else can make the buzzer beaters. I really think the D-Wade should be THE guy taking the last shot for the Heat especially when LBJ is being doubled. There is a few exceptions obviously if someone else is wide open, or is LBJ is having one of those nights where everything is dropping those would be my only two exceptions for D-Wade not taking the last shot. Ok ALLLL that being said I am taking the Heat sorry I went off on a crazy tangent there really getting into the Heats LAST game instead of focusing on the one they have tomorrow. All that being said tomorrows game will be much easier and the Heat will get back to their winning ways. The Bobcats travel to Chicago to play the Bulls and since the Bobcats played tonight and have to travel and face a much better team, I am taking the Bulls to win at home where they are great. The Kings travel to OKC to play the Thunder who are coming off a tough loss to the Warriors. I think that the Thunder will bounce back with a win here, they are at home and this is a game they should win. They are a team that you can USUALLY count on to win these type of games especially at home. Kevin Durrant just gets better and better and if that Thunder core stays together I can't wait to see what they become in the next few years. The Sixers travel to Memphis to play the Grizzlies and I know that the Sixers have been having a huge second half, just like I thought they would, although I must admit I did not think it would be THIS good of a second half only dropping 3 of their last 12 games. All that being said though I am sure you all know by now how much I like the Grizzlies especially when they are on their home court where they are great, so I will go with the Grizzlies to pull it off against the Sixers. The Jazz travel to play the Suns, maybe with a new coach the Jazz will be like the Pacers and just go on a winning tear, although I don't see it starting on the road the way they have been playing on the road this season. I am taking the Suns to get a big win at home against the Jazz who just lost their coach of 23 years, I don't thin replacing him will be as easy as it was for the Pacers to replace their head coach. The Hornets travel to play the Warriors who are coming off a big home win against the Thunder. I know that the Hornets just beat the Magic and should win this game tomorrow night but for some reason something inside me is saying Warriors pick the Warriors I am having a hard time taking the Warriors though especially if the Hornets play like they did their last game, yeah I am going with the Hornets.
Ok let us talk a little baseball since spring training is officially underway with pitchers and catchers reporting. I know I have been raving about the Phillies rotation all off season and how I can't wait to see what they can do. This is true but there are some other teams who still or now have some pretty legit rotations as well. Lets take the Cubs for example, I know Zambrano was a little shaky at the start of last season, but they way he finished was amazing I believe it was 5-2 with an era under 2 if I am not mistaken which I am pretty sure I'm not. Also they added Matt Garza who won 15 games in the AL last year and who I think will thrive in the NL and could win anywhere from 15-20 games this year (knock on wood!). Speaking of Wood and moving from the AL to the NL, the Cubs also addes Kerry Wood who is now a set up man but a good on at that. I think he will only get better with the move from AL to NL and will really help the Cubs in the middle innings before turning the game over to Carlos Marmol who was lights out last year. I think those two pick ups are huge for them this year, I am not saying it makes them number 1 in the NL by any means I am just saying they did a good job adding to their pitching staff. Obviously another team who kinda flew under the radar until baseball tonight came on TV and called them the Giants of 2011, I am talking about the Oakland A's of course. They added some new pitching as well as a decent power batt, they are young fresh and good to go. I wouldn't be surprised to see the A's do well but I still see the Rangers winning the AL West. Speaking of the Rangers, I know that they lost Cliff Lee and that is a huge loss to their somewhat suspect starting rotation. If you ask me though I think that last year was just the start of what this rotation will become. They still have Hunter, Wilson, and Lewis at the top they added Webb who I am hoping bounces back nicely off an injuries last year in Arizona. The Rangers are also going to see how rookie of the year Neftali Feliz will fair as a starter, if he improved enough on his off speed pitches it would be ludacris to not give him a shot somewhere in that starting lineup after what happened to C.J. Wilson last year. With him out of the Bullpen who will close games you ask, well if you follow the Rangers you know they picked up Arthur Rhodes who most likely will be a set up man. With all the depth the Rangers have at the pitcher position finding a closer won't be that tough there are a few good candidates for the job. Well that will be all for today tomorrow I will cover more in depth instead of just talking pitching, also will talk different teams.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
getting back
I know that all of last week I couldn't make a pick to save my life. Well I hope that this week is much better cause I can't take another week like the last one. I mean the Thunder lose to the Warriors the Heat lose to the Celtics the Lakers lost to the Magic I don't think I got a single game right today, maybe one or two at the most. That being said this week will be much better. I can't wait for baseball season to start then my picks will be dead on. Also to add insult to injury Tiger choked and ended up finishing 20th if I'm not mistaken, but I still think he will turn it around sooner then people think.
I'm going to keep it short tonight cause tomorrow I am going to do a preseaon baseball post. So here are my NBA picks for tomorrows games. The Spurs are still on the road tomorrow they play the Nets, and I fully expect the Spurs to bounce back from their loss earlier in the week. Parker and most of the other starters were in single digits and I don't see that happening again anytime soon. I hope Parker has a career night tomorrow but if he does or doesn't I still have to Spurs winning. The Laker play the Bobcats where they have trouble winning for some reason. Plus they played tonight and now have to travel to play the Bobcats so they won't have the fresh legs or the good nights sleep. But all that being said I am still sticking with the Lakers. Today was a tough loss for them they were held to a season low 75 points. Plus I think the Lakers big men will be way to much for the Bobcats to handle. The Hawks are on the road to play the Pistons, who played tonight so they won't have fresh legs. Also the Hawks are coming off a really tough loss where they were up 20 right before the half and ended up losing at the last second to the Bobcats. So I think Joe Johnson, who had a quiet game that night will have a huge game in the Hawks road win over the Pistons tomorrow. The Clippers are on the road to face the Bucks tomorrow, and I know that the Clippers are not that great on the road but I think that Blake is sick of losing and will carrying th Clippers to a win tomorrow over the Bucks. The Blazer travel to play the T-Wolves and the way Aldrige is playing it really makes it hard to pick against the Blazers. I don't think he has scored under 30 in like a week or so he really is mad about that all star game, I am taking the Blazers. The Nuggets are traveling to Houston to play the Rockets, I really like the Rockets in this game but the way Melo and Billups have been playing its really hard to pick against them. Even though I really like the Rockets and think they are underrated I still think the Nuggets will some how pull this one off.
So there are my picks for tomorrow, check back tomorrow I will have my preseason stuff for baseball as well as some fantasy players I'll be looking to get in my MLB fantasy league, so be sure to come back tomorrow and check it out.
I'm going to keep it short tonight cause tomorrow I am going to do a preseaon baseball post. So here are my NBA picks for tomorrows games. The Spurs are still on the road tomorrow they play the Nets, and I fully expect the Spurs to bounce back from their loss earlier in the week. Parker and most of the other starters were in single digits and I don't see that happening again anytime soon. I hope Parker has a career night tomorrow but if he does or doesn't I still have to Spurs winning. The Laker play the Bobcats where they have trouble winning for some reason. Plus they played tonight and now have to travel to play the Bobcats so they won't have the fresh legs or the good nights sleep. But all that being said I am still sticking with the Lakers. Today was a tough loss for them they were held to a season low 75 points. Plus I think the Lakers big men will be way to much for the Bobcats to handle. The Hawks are on the road to play the Pistons, who played tonight so they won't have fresh legs. Also the Hawks are coming off a really tough loss where they were up 20 right before the half and ended up losing at the last second to the Bobcats. So I think Joe Johnson, who had a quiet game that night will have a huge game in the Hawks road win over the Pistons tomorrow. The Clippers are on the road to face the Bucks tomorrow, and I know that the Clippers are not that great on the road but I think that Blake is sick of losing and will carrying th Clippers to a win tomorrow over the Bucks. The Blazer travel to play the T-Wolves and the way Aldrige is playing it really makes it hard to pick against the Blazers. I don't think he has scored under 30 in like a week or so he really is mad about that all star game, I am taking the Blazers. The Nuggets are traveling to Houston to play the Rockets, I really like the Rockets in this game but the way Melo and Billups have been playing its really hard to pick against them. Even though I really like the Rockets and think they are underrated I still think the Nuggets will some how pull this one off.
So there are my picks for tomorrow, check back tomorrow I will have my preseason stuff for baseball as well as some fantasy players I'll be looking to get in my MLB fantasy league, so be sure to come back tomorrow and check it out.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Sundays on ABC
I am glad that someone started showing basketball games on the regular. ABC has not let down with their basketball games since they started showing them. Today wasn't that bad for me granted the day isn't finished yet but so far I only have one game wrong and that is the Hawks game. A game they had a 20 point lead almost at half before the Bobcats cut it to 13 before half. The Mav's are 8 20 seconds away from starting another win streak. I knew that it would just take time for Peja to get back in his groove, it took maybe what a week for him to put up impressive number. So far tonight he is leading the Mav's in scoring (tied with Dirk actually cause Dirk hit 4 freethrows with like 20 seconds left) with 22 he also added 4 boards 1 dime and 1 steal in only 26 minutes. If he can keep that up and the Mav's roll players can continue to play at the level they are then everyone better watch out. Haha I am sure people can tell the Mav's are my team, but I am just hyping them so much cause no one else does and its weak cause they obviously deserve it.
Tomorrows matchups are the best of the week that is for sure, I am so glad ABC started to put games on. First off the Heat travel to Boston to play the Celtics, since the Cetlics are a little injured right now the Heat might have a good chance to win cause the Celtics are hurt in the big man department which is where the Heat have a question mark. That being said the Celtics are coming off a tough loss to the Lakers on their home court, so I have a feeling Boston will be looking to make a statement. That being said so will the Heat having lost to the Celtics both times the played earlier. Also when these two teams met earlier the Heat were not even close to the team they are now. All that being said I still think this one is a toss up and I am going to go out on a limb here and say that the Heat will shock everyone tomorrow and come awya with a huge road win. The Lakers are still on their road trip tomorrow they stop in Orlando to play the Magic. While both teams are back to their winning ways I think the Lakers are out to prove something to everyone. When Kobe is on a mission it is so hard to pick against him, especially when I like the talent surrounding him so much, I am taking the Lakers to continue their win streak. I think that being on the road so much has really helped them gel together maybe have a little fun something they obviously weren't doing earlier. If only the Cav's lost to the Blakers last night then tomorrows game would be huge. Notice how the first game Mo Williams comes back they win. Obviously LBJ wasn't asa much to that team as everyone thought. With Blatche's decreased out put and how bad the rest of the team is on the road I think that all that might give the Cav's the start of something no one thought they'd have...a win streak. That being said I have this feeling that teh Wizards are gunna win I don't know why. I know that with Mo back the Cav's aren't as bad as everyone thinks, anyways I guess I will stick with the home team to pull off their 2nd win in a row. The Blazers travel to play the Pistons and I know the Pistons are good at home but the Blazers are so underrated and Aldrige is STILL mad about the all star game so I'll take the Blazers. The Clippers play the Raptors and after losing to the Cav's I hope that Blake is mad enough that he can will the Raptors to a win against another really poor NBA team I think he will so I will take the road team. The Nuggets travel to Memphis to play the Grizzlies, the Grizzlies are a great team at home and plus the Nuggets are coming off a buzzer beater win over the Mav's so I think that the Grizzlies will have an easy W. The Thunder play the Warriors on their home court, the Thunder play tonight but still I think they are a good enough team to beat the Warriors without the fresher legs. The Kings play the Suns and with Nash continuing to play at such a high level I think the Suns can pull this one off. I think the Kings are a young team and might be decent next year.
With one round left my main my Tiger is one stroke back to hopefully pull off his first win in over a year. I know that today he had a tough round but so did everyone. I was reading something on ESPN.com trying to say that Tiger was having a bad round, then like 3 or 4 sentences later goes on to say that the leaders would have put a lot of space between them and Tiger but it was windy so THEY had a bad round. As if Tiger should be perfect with or without the wind. I know that back when Tiger first came out the wind wasn't as much of a factor as it is now but this is a new Tiger. I hope that he pulls it off tomorrow and gets as much back into the old Tiger as he can.
Tomorrows matchups are the best of the week that is for sure, I am so glad ABC started to put games on. First off the Heat travel to Boston to play the Celtics, since the Cetlics are a little injured right now the Heat might have a good chance to win cause the Celtics are hurt in the big man department which is where the Heat have a question mark. That being said the Celtics are coming off a tough loss to the Lakers on their home court, so I have a feeling Boston will be looking to make a statement. That being said so will the Heat having lost to the Celtics both times the played earlier. Also when these two teams met earlier the Heat were not even close to the team they are now. All that being said I still think this one is a toss up and I am going to go out on a limb here and say that the Heat will shock everyone tomorrow and come awya with a huge road win. The Lakers are still on their road trip tomorrow they stop in Orlando to play the Magic. While both teams are back to their winning ways I think the Lakers are out to prove something to everyone. When Kobe is on a mission it is so hard to pick against him, especially when I like the talent surrounding him so much, I am taking the Lakers to continue their win streak. I think that being on the road so much has really helped them gel together maybe have a little fun something they obviously weren't doing earlier. If only the Cav's lost to the Blakers last night then tomorrows game would be huge. Notice how the first game Mo Williams comes back they win. Obviously LBJ wasn't asa much to that team as everyone thought. With Blatche's decreased out put and how bad the rest of the team is on the road I think that all that might give the Cav's the start of something no one thought they'd have...a win streak. That being said I have this feeling that teh Wizards are gunna win I don't know why. I know that with Mo back the Cav's aren't as bad as everyone thinks, anyways I guess I will stick with the home team to pull off their 2nd win in a row. The Blazers travel to play the Pistons and I know the Pistons are good at home but the Blazers are so underrated and Aldrige is STILL mad about the all star game so I'll take the Blazers. The Clippers play the Raptors and after losing to the Cav's I hope that Blake is mad enough that he can will the Raptors to a win against another really poor NBA team I think he will so I will take the road team. The Nuggets travel to Memphis to play the Grizzlies, the Grizzlies are a great team at home and plus the Nuggets are coming off a buzzer beater win over the Mav's so I think that the Grizzlies will have an easy W. The Thunder play the Warriors on their home court, the Thunder play tonight but still I think they are a good enough team to beat the Warriors without the fresher legs. The Kings play the Suns and with Nash continuing to play at such a high level I think the Suns can pull this one off. I think the Kings are a young team and might be decent next year.
With one round left my main my Tiger is one stroke back to hopefully pull off his first win in over a year. I know that today he had a tough round but so did everyone. I was reading something on ESPN.com trying to say that Tiger was having a bad round, then like 3 or 4 sentences later goes on to say that the leaders would have put a lot of space between them and Tiger but it was windy so THEY had a bad round. As if Tiger should be perfect with or without the wind. I know that back when Tiger first came out the wind wasn't as much of a factor as it is now but this is a new Tiger. I hope that he pulls it off tomorrow and gets as much back into the old Tiger as he can.
Friday, February 11, 2011
It must not be my week
Another night this week where I have a bad night I thought last night would turn things around but I guees not. It's not like I am picking more losers then winners it's just I am not picking as many winners as I am used to picking. I know that I am new at the whole basketball thing and have only been really into it for a few years but still I expect to be much better. I expect every week to be like last week to be honest, and I plan on the rest of my picks to be much better. The Lakers went to MSG tonight where people were not ready to pick them because they had a hard game last night and had to travel. Me on the other hand I have seen the change in the Lakers. I do think however that Gasol and Bynum need to be more agressive on the glass, I really think either Pau or Bynum should try and be more like Tyson Chandler more defensive minded or at least try to get as many rebounds as points. I am not saying they need to get as many rebounds as points but if one of them cared more about blocks and rebounds the Lakers would be so much better off. I personal would like both of them to play with a chip on their shoulder. If they would then the Lakers would be unstoppable I know I say this a lot when I write about the Lakers but if it happened they would be such a fun team to watch. Anyways the Cav's finally got that monkey off their back and broke their 26 game losing streak with a win over the Blakers despite 32 from Blake the Clippers couldn't hold off the Cav's in overtime.
I'll just get to my picks for tomorrow I am shooting for a perfect day. The Bobcats failed me tonight as I picked them to win for the first time in I don't know how long, and what do they do....LOSE!! They play the Hawks tomorrow, and I am taking the Hawks to win behind a huge outting from Joe Johnson. The Knicks travel a little bit away to play the Nets, since the Knicks had a tough loss tonight and since both teams played tonight not just the Knicks they both might be a little tired, so I will go with the Knicks on the road. The Bulls play the Hornets who won tonight but still have been iffy the last couple of games. The Bulls have a day of rest and I think are playing better basketball right now. I still can't wait until Noah gets back to see how good these new Bulls really are. The Sixers travel to play the T-Wolves, the Sixers are coming off a huge win against the Spurs. Both teams alos played tonight so neither really has the leg up there (no pun intended) I am going with the Sixers to continue their second half run. The Spurs play the Wizards in Washington, I don't see Parker and the rest of the Spurs having another bad night like they did tonight. Since I think Paker and company will be better I am taking the Spurs to beat the Wizards. The Mav's play the Rockets in Houston, the Mav's are coming off that last second loss to the Nuggets in Denver. I really think Dirk will have a much better game then he did in Denver, and with everyone finally playing the way Cuban expected them to when he signed them, the Mav's will start another win streak tomorrow with a big win over the underrated Rockets. The Pacers v. the Bucks and with the Pacers new coach they seem to be the Cowboys of basketball playing so much better under their new head coach. I say the trend continues and so do the wins, with another one tomorrow against the Bucks. The last game is the Thunder v. the Kings and while they both are rested I don't think the Kings can hang with the Thunder rested or not.
Tiger had a great first 2 rounds I really hope he can keep it up through the weekend. I think him playing his best golf is great for golf. It makes everyone better and everything better including the ratings obviously. But I still think with him playing his best it breads competition, there's always someone out there training harder to be betteer. I really think that once Tiger wins and everyone stops questioning him then he will do great. I think that all these people questioning him saying he has lost it, has really gotten to him. I am hoping he wants to show everyone he is the same guy. Maybe he won't be as dominate but still I am sure he will improve everytime he plays. I am saying he has a top 5 finish this weekend.
I'll just get to my picks for tomorrow I am shooting for a perfect day. The Bobcats failed me tonight as I picked them to win for the first time in I don't know how long, and what do they do....LOSE!! They play the Hawks tomorrow, and I am taking the Hawks to win behind a huge outting from Joe Johnson. The Knicks travel a little bit away to play the Nets, since the Knicks had a tough loss tonight and since both teams played tonight not just the Knicks they both might be a little tired, so I will go with the Knicks on the road. The Bulls play the Hornets who won tonight but still have been iffy the last couple of games. The Bulls have a day of rest and I think are playing better basketball right now. I still can't wait until Noah gets back to see how good these new Bulls really are. The Sixers travel to play the T-Wolves, the Sixers are coming off a huge win against the Spurs. Both teams alos played tonight so neither really has the leg up there (no pun intended) I am going with the Sixers to continue their second half run. The Spurs play the Wizards in Washington, I don't see Parker and the rest of the Spurs having another bad night like they did tonight. Since I think Paker and company will be better I am taking the Spurs to beat the Wizards. The Mav's play the Rockets in Houston, the Mav's are coming off that last second loss to the Nuggets in Denver. I really think Dirk will have a much better game then he did in Denver, and with everyone finally playing the way Cuban expected them to when he signed them, the Mav's will start another win streak tomorrow with a big win over the underrated Rockets. The Pacers v. the Bucks and with the Pacers new coach they seem to be the Cowboys of basketball playing so much better under their new head coach. I say the trend continues and so do the wins, with another one tomorrow against the Bucks. The last game is the Thunder v. the Kings and while they both are rested I don't think the Kings can hang with the Thunder rested or not.
Tiger had a great first 2 rounds I really hope he can keep it up through the weekend. I think him playing his best golf is great for golf. It makes everyone better and everything better including the ratings obviously. But I still think with him playing his best it breads competition, there's always someone out there training harder to be betteer. I really think that once Tiger wins and everyone stops questioning him then he will do great. I think that all these people questioning him saying he has lost it, has really gotten to him. I am hoping he wants to show everyone he is the same guy. Maybe he won't be as dominate but still I am sure he will improve everytime he plays. I am saying he has a top 5 finish this weekend.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Ouch!!
I can't believe I acutally came in here after what just happened to the Mav's!! They freaking had that game and then boom all the sudden they freaking get it taken right out from under them. I seriously can't believe that just happened. Everyone on the Mav's played great, I think they could have gotten Dirk some more shots. Even though he was missing from beyond the arc. I guess he had 10 shots which is a decent amount considering all the players the Mav's play and how many shots they take as well. It really wasn't that big of a deal that Dirk didn't take that many shots everyone else was hot. Obviously Melo and Afflalo killed them in the 4th quarter mostly the last 5 minutes and especially the last shot! But the Mav's still played a pretty good game, it was a game of runs and the Nuggets just happened to get the last run. Anyways I gotta move on or else I'll keep talking about this game forever. Lets move on to a game I got right (even though I still say I should get credit for gettin the Mav's game right LOL JK!) the Lakers game. I knew that there was no way they would come out and lose this game. You can say that the Celtics were hurt, but really they were only without Shaq and Nate Robinson, everyone else they have been out. Kobe came out in the first half and got the big men going, in which time the Lakers were killing the C's in the paint Bynum and Gasol were playing great. Then the Celtics made a run and Kobe knew he had to turn it on, with only 3 points in the first half 20 came in the second. He wasn't just scoring he was still getting others involved. I know Melo had another huge night but still he isn't what the Lakers need. What they need is for Bynum and Gasol to go 20-10 every night, they need Artest to forget about offense and start being the defensive stopper that he was last year. Fisher needs to stop shooting 30%, I don't care if he only has 10 or so points but he has to start making a few more buckets. I think the Lakers are just getting started on a nice second half run that will have everyone remembering they are the 2 time defending champs. The Lakers did something huge tonight they won the battle on the glass big time, out rebounding the Celtics by 11. If they can keep that up they will be fine in the post season.
Now on to my picks for tomorrow, which will be as close to perfect as I can get, I am hoping for perfect so we will see how that goes. The T-Wolves play the Pacers and the Pacers have suffered their first loss under their head coach but I don't think they will be losing tomorrow night. The Hornets travel to play the Magic and the Hornets are in a slump while the Magic have turned things around and gotten back to their winning ways. I think Howard is playing out of control as always and I think the Magic have finally gotten their outside shot to start falling which is dangerous for all other teams especially for the Hornets tomorrow, I am taking the Magic. The Spurs continue their road trip in Philly tomorrow where they face the Sixers who are having a great second half just like I thought they would, but I don't see them beating the Spurs Parker hasn't been scoring like crazy but he has been doing a great job scoring when he has to and I think he will have a huge game tomorrow go for at least 25 and 8 (dimes not boards) and 3 steals in the Spurs win over the Sixers. The Blazers at the Raptors and I am not sure but the Blazer might have Brandon Roy back which would be huge for them. Either way I am going with the Blazer Aldrige is on a mission now that he has not been selected as an all star and I look for him to have a huge night in the Blazers win. The Nets travel to play the Bobcats and I have learned my lesson I am never picking against the Bobcats again...well for awhile anyways, so I will take the Bobcats. The Blakers (as everyones been calling them) take on the Cav's tomorrow and while the Blakers are a horrible road team I know that as competitive as Blake Griffin is there is no way he is letting his team be the team that loses to the Cav's, I think he will have a huge night in the Cav's defeat. That of course will set up the most exciting game this year...the Wizards 0-25 on the road and the Cav's 0-27 outta their last 27, something has to give. The Heat travel to play the Pistons, and the way LeBron has been playing I don't see the Pistons having a chance although I think that tomorrow night D-Wade will be the leading scorer for the Heat, just a hunch maybe they will both go for 50 and Bosh for 18 and no one else will score, I am just waiting for a night like this to happen aren't you? The Lakers travel to play the Knicks and I know they played in a tough hard fought game tonight and have to travel, and are kinda old. I still think the Lakers are looking to prove something on this road trip of theirs I have them winning tomorrow in MSG and the Lakers big 3 have a huge night. The Bucks play the Grizzlies in Memphis, the Grizzlies coming off a tough loss to the Lakers, and they are also having a great second half although Gay might be out again I doubt he will be though I expect him to be on the floor in the Grizzlies win tomorrow. The Suns travel to play the Jazz in Utah and they are coming off a game tonight and I know the Jazz are not the team they were the first half but they are still good at home. With all that said I am obviously going with the Jazz to win.
Now a little baseball new for you, Strasburg started throwing soft toss today. I don't know where you stand on him but seriously this kid is the real deal. I saw him pitch a few years back when SDSU played the Lobos and it was a 1-0 game in which the Lobos lost but still I love me a real baseball game. I was sad to see him go down so early last year not really getting to have a real rookie season. He started off so well that it was a shame to not be able to see how his season turned out. Obviously he wouldn't be as effective cause usually a rookie pitcher looks great the first few starts cause the hitters have never seen him before, once you throw a few times and teams can game plan for you, that's when we see what kind of star you really are. I know that he can succeed (to say the VERY least) at the pro level but I haven't been this excited about a rookie...ever that I can remember, I am young though and haven't been around for many SUPER exciting ones like him. I mean 14 K's in your first big league game I don't care who you are that is impressive! I know he might not make a start till late in the year or maybe not at all but still this kid is the real deal and I can't wait to see what he becomes as a professional. I know he had some trouble in his last few starts but thats only cause the other teams had a plan and he didn't have any run support and had not the best defensive support either. This year would be a little different of course. Also real quick some pitchers come back from Tommy Johns surgery throwing harder then before...could you imagine...105 on a regular basis, I know I couldn't I mean really the kid hits 100 like nothing and watch him get like the best ligament out there and be able to hit 105 like its nothing instead of 100 it would be ridiculous!
Now on to my picks for tomorrow, which will be as close to perfect as I can get, I am hoping for perfect so we will see how that goes. The T-Wolves play the Pacers and the Pacers have suffered their first loss under their head coach but I don't think they will be losing tomorrow night. The Hornets travel to play the Magic and the Hornets are in a slump while the Magic have turned things around and gotten back to their winning ways. I think Howard is playing out of control as always and I think the Magic have finally gotten their outside shot to start falling which is dangerous for all other teams especially for the Hornets tomorrow, I am taking the Magic. The Spurs continue their road trip in Philly tomorrow where they face the Sixers who are having a great second half just like I thought they would, but I don't see them beating the Spurs Parker hasn't been scoring like crazy but he has been doing a great job scoring when he has to and I think he will have a huge game tomorrow go for at least 25 and 8 (dimes not boards) and 3 steals in the Spurs win over the Sixers. The Blazers at the Raptors and I am not sure but the Blazer might have Brandon Roy back which would be huge for them. Either way I am going with the Blazer Aldrige is on a mission now that he has not been selected as an all star and I look for him to have a huge night in the Blazers win. The Nets travel to play the Bobcats and I have learned my lesson I am never picking against the Bobcats again...well for awhile anyways, so I will take the Bobcats. The Blakers (as everyones been calling them) take on the Cav's tomorrow and while the Blakers are a horrible road team I know that as competitive as Blake Griffin is there is no way he is letting his team be the team that loses to the Cav's, I think he will have a huge night in the Cav's defeat. That of course will set up the most exciting game this year...the Wizards 0-25 on the road and the Cav's 0-27 outta their last 27, something has to give. The Heat travel to play the Pistons, and the way LeBron has been playing I don't see the Pistons having a chance although I think that tomorrow night D-Wade will be the leading scorer for the Heat, just a hunch maybe they will both go for 50 and Bosh for 18 and no one else will score, I am just waiting for a night like this to happen aren't you? The Lakers travel to play the Knicks and I know they played in a tough hard fought game tonight and have to travel, and are kinda old. I still think the Lakers are looking to prove something on this road trip of theirs I have them winning tomorrow in MSG and the Lakers big 3 have a huge night. The Bucks play the Grizzlies in Memphis, the Grizzlies coming off a tough loss to the Lakers, and they are also having a great second half although Gay might be out again I doubt he will be though I expect him to be on the floor in the Grizzlies win tomorrow. The Suns travel to play the Jazz in Utah and they are coming off a game tonight and I know the Jazz are not the team they were the first half but they are still good at home. With all that said I am obviously going with the Jazz to win.
Now a little baseball new for you, Strasburg started throwing soft toss today. I don't know where you stand on him but seriously this kid is the real deal. I saw him pitch a few years back when SDSU played the Lobos and it was a 1-0 game in which the Lobos lost but still I love me a real baseball game. I was sad to see him go down so early last year not really getting to have a real rookie season. He started off so well that it was a shame to not be able to see how his season turned out. Obviously he wouldn't be as effective cause usually a rookie pitcher looks great the first few starts cause the hitters have never seen him before, once you throw a few times and teams can game plan for you, that's when we see what kind of star you really are. I know that he can succeed (to say the VERY least) at the pro level but I haven't been this excited about a rookie...ever that I can remember, I am young though and haven't been around for many SUPER exciting ones like him. I mean 14 K's in your first big league game I don't care who you are that is impressive! I know he might not make a start till late in the year or maybe not at all but still this kid is the real deal and I can't wait to see what he becomes as a professional. I know he had some trouble in his last few starts but thats only cause the other teams had a plan and he didn't have any run support and had not the best defensive support either. This year would be a little different of course. Also real quick some pitchers come back from Tommy Johns surgery throwing harder then before...could you imagine...105 on a regular basis, I know I couldn't I mean really the kid hits 100 like nothing and watch him get like the best ligament out there and be able to hit 105 like its nothing instead of 100 it would be ridiculous!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Rivalry Week
As rivalry week continued tonight I wasn't able to catch both games. I did however catch the second one, North Carolina v. Duke. The first half was all Tar Heels, they were killing Duke on the glass and their bigs were playing much better then Duke's bigs were. The first half belonged to Zeller and Henson, but come the second half Duke finally turned it on. Nolan Smith exploded for 22 points in the second half ending with a career high 34 points to go along with 2 boards 3 dimes and 1 steal. The real story other then Smith was Curry, who had 22 points 6 boards 5 dimes and 1 steal and was clutch in the second half. But the difference maker to me was how Duke won the battle on the offensive glass, I seriously think they got all their 15 offensive rebounds in the second half. The second chance points is what ended up kill the Tar Heels, they were doing great with the glass in the first half but Duke's big guys must have gotted fired up from Smith and Curry. Aanyways it was a great game Duke came back from being down 16 to win.
While I didn't do horrible with my picks for tonight (6-4) still not doing as well as I should. I think I am offically done picking the Knicks. I know you have heard this before, but after tonights loss I am afraid they are going to have to earn my picks from now on. The Mav's pull off a close one on the road with Dirk only scoring 10, which to me is a great thing. I mean don't get me wrong I am upset that one of my best fantasy players had an off night, but I am just glad the Mav's are starting to find offense else where. I am not saying they can last with Dirk only scoring 10 every night, but it's good to see that they can at least do it. I am glad Terry has finally picked up his play averaging 22 points in his last 3 games and 19 in his last 5. In order for the Mav's to be a contender they will need him to average 20 a night. Obviously with Peja just getting into things and only getting 20 minutes and a few shots a game, still hasn't settled in to his roll here or settled in with this offense but when he does, I hope to get at least 10-15 a game if that's not outlandish of me to request from him. That also depends on his minutes cause with the Mav's you can start but that doesn't mean your playing a lot of minutes. Glad to see Barea averaging almost double in the past 5 games than he has all season. Again if the Mav's are gunna contend they have to have this play from their bench. Could you imagine if Dirk and Chandler were on tonight and Dirk got his 20 and Chandler went for 15-15 like he has been lately. The Kings woulda been crushed.
Only 3 games tomorrow so I will finally get a chance at being undo for the first time this week. First game tomorrow is a HUGE one, the Lakers v. the Celtics in Boston. I am hoping with these "Trade talks" about Bynum really make him play better. We all know there is no way the Lakers are dealing him to the Nuggets but he still has to be mad that it was such a big story and people actually thought it would go down. I look for him to have a statement game where he says look what I can do for you against these guys in the Finals. That being said I am taking the Lakers to do what they have not yet done all season, and that's beat one of the NBA's best. They haven't beat the Mav's, Spurs, Celtics, or the Heat. They did however beat the Thunder who is a team that took the Lakers to 7 games last year in the playoffs. Still I have them playing like a new team these last few months (fingers crossed) and shutting everyone up. The Warriors travel to play the Suns and the Warriors are coming off a tough game on the road against the Nuggets, a game that they won still I think they might be a little tired on the road tonight and having to play on the road again tomorrow against a rested and some what underrated Suns team, I am taking the home team here, as much as I like the Warriors. The Mav's travel to Denver to play the Nuggets, and like I said Dirk and Chandler both had down nights tonight, so I look for them to show up big tomorrow against the Nuggets. Also I thing Terry and Barea will continue to play well and I look for Peja to get a little more involved. One thing that would be great for the Mav's is for J-Kidd to start playing like Nash. that might happen Kidd has it in him I think he might be saving it for the playoff I just have this feeling deep down in me that we will see him go crazy in the post season (again figures crossed) while the Mav's get red hot.
Really quick just wanted to talk a little MVP race for the NBA. I know its only half way through the season but I had to get a few things off my chest. One I know that LeBron is having a great year, and why shouldn't he look who is surrounded by. If you think that doesn't mean anything then you obviously must not know a lot. LeBron might honestly not even be the best player on the floor for his team. Wade has been just as productive with LBJ at his side as LBJ has been with him. So to me you can't make a case for LeBron and leave D-Wade out of it. That being said there is no way to me a guy with that much talent around him could win the MVP. I know they have to be on a winning team, and Rose is on a winning team and carrying his team when his guys are hurt. I know they have dropped some easy ones the past week. Still that shouldn't take away from what Rose has done. Working to get that jump shot as well as shutting people up saying that he doesn't distribute the rock enough with career high in dimes this season if I am not mistaken. I think he has done so much more with way less. He may not have the numbers LeBron does, but if you put him with Wade and Bosh and I bet he gets number close to LeBrons if not the same. I also love what Kevin Durrant has done to the Thunder he makes them a contender just by himself, obviously Westbrook is huge for them also. Also I keep hearing this look at the Cav's without LeBron...the problem is they aren't just down LeBron, they are also missing Mo Williams and Anderson Varejao, so not just their best player from last year but their 3 best players from last year. So it's not all because of LeBron leaving they have injury problems as well. Sorry just had to get that off my chest, also if Dirk comes back around to his 24-26 ppg then he has to be considers as well, HAS TO BE!!
While I didn't do horrible with my picks for tonight (6-4) still not doing as well as I should. I think I am offically done picking the Knicks. I know you have heard this before, but after tonights loss I am afraid they are going to have to earn my picks from now on. The Mav's pull off a close one on the road with Dirk only scoring 10, which to me is a great thing. I mean don't get me wrong I am upset that one of my best fantasy players had an off night, but I am just glad the Mav's are starting to find offense else where. I am not saying they can last with Dirk only scoring 10 every night, but it's good to see that they can at least do it. I am glad Terry has finally picked up his play averaging 22 points in his last 3 games and 19 in his last 5. In order for the Mav's to be a contender they will need him to average 20 a night. Obviously with Peja just getting into things and only getting 20 minutes and a few shots a game, still hasn't settled in to his roll here or settled in with this offense but when he does, I hope to get at least 10-15 a game if that's not outlandish of me to request from him. That also depends on his minutes cause with the Mav's you can start but that doesn't mean your playing a lot of minutes. Glad to see Barea averaging almost double in the past 5 games than he has all season. Again if the Mav's are gunna contend they have to have this play from their bench. Could you imagine if Dirk and Chandler were on tonight and Dirk got his 20 and Chandler went for 15-15 like he has been lately. The Kings woulda been crushed.
Only 3 games tomorrow so I will finally get a chance at being undo for the first time this week. First game tomorrow is a HUGE one, the Lakers v. the Celtics in Boston. I am hoping with these "Trade talks" about Bynum really make him play better. We all know there is no way the Lakers are dealing him to the Nuggets but he still has to be mad that it was such a big story and people actually thought it would go down. I look for him to have a statement game where he says look what I can do for you against these guys in the Finals. That being said I am taking the Lakers to do what they have not yet done all season, and that's beat one of the NBA's best. They haven't beat the Mav's, Spurs, Celtics, or the Heat. They did however beat the Thunder who is a team that took the Lakers to 7 games last year in the playoffs. Still I have them playing like a new team these last few months (fingers crossed) and shutting everyone up. The Warriors travel to play the Suns and the Warriors are coming off a tough game on the road against the Nuggets, a game that they won still I think they might be a little tired on the road tonight and having to play on the road again tomorrow against a rested and some what underrated Suns team, I am taking the home team here, as much as I like the Warriors. The Mav's travel to Denver to play the Nuggets, and like I said Dirk and Chandler both had down nights tonight, so I look for them to show up big tomorrow against the Nuggets. Also I thing Terry and Barea will continue to play well and I look for Peja to get a little more involved. One thing that would be great for the Mav's is for J-Kidd to start playing like Nash. that might happen Kidd has it in him I think he might be saving it for the playoff I just have this feeling deep down in me that we will see him go crazy in the post season (again figures crossed) while the Mav's get red hot.
Really quick just wanted to talk a little MVP race for the NBA. I know its only half way through the season but I had to get a few things off my chest. One I know that LeBron is having a great year, and why shouldn't he look who is surrounded by. If you think that doesn't mean anything then you obviously must not know a lot. LeBron might honestly not even be the best player on the floor for his team. Wade has been just as productive with LBJ at his side as LBJ has been with him. So to me you can't make a case for LeBron and leave D-Wade out of it. That being said there is no way to me a guy with that much talent around him could win the MVP. I know they have to be on a winning team, and Rose is on a winning team and carrying his team when his guys are hurt. I know they have dropped some easy ones the past week. Still that shouldn't take away from what Rose has done. Working to get that jump shot as well as shutting people up saying that he doesn't distribute the rock enough with career high in dimes this season if I am not mistaken. I think he has done so much more with way less. He may not have the numbers LeBron does, but if you put him with Wade and Bosh and I bet he gets number close to LeBrons if not the same. I also love what Kevin Durrant has done to the Thunder he makes them a contender just by himself, obviously Westbrook is huge for them also. Also I keep hearing this look at the Cav's without LeBron...the problem is they aren't just down LeBron, they are also missing Mo Williams and Anderson Varejao, so not just their best player from last year but their 3 best players from last year. So it's not all because of LeBron leaving they have injury problems as well. Sorry just had to get that off my chest, also if Dirk comes back around to his 24-26 ppg then he has to be considers as well, HAS TO BE!!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
And on it goes
Maybe since I did such a good job making picks last week, this week I have to do opposite to make everything even. I know I shouldn't have picked the Clippers on the road against a good Magic team but they had been struggling as of late. I knew they would turn it around lets just see how they do against a +.500 team, even their game tomorrow will be a big test. I was really disapointed in the Hawks tonight, I was way off on Joe Johnson I was hoping for a huge game but he had one of his worst all year with only 6 points, in their 34 point loss AT HOME to the Sixers. That last sentence was all truth. The Heat finally figured out how to win close games and how to come back late in the 4th quarter. Obviously the Pacers not the best team in the league but still not the worst by any means. LeBron went crazy tonight almost getting a triple double 41 points 13 boards 8 dimes 3 steals and 1 block what a line for one night Chalmers showed up tonight as well as Miller and Jones when they needed to, House wasn't played as much tonight due to the size factor of the Pacers. It seems the Heat bench has finally figured things out, all they need to do is hit the shots whenever they get their looks cause they will get plenty of open looks. I still don't think the Heat have the size to win a championship I thought LeBron learned that lesson with the Cav's but I guess he thinks Bosh is a good enough big man which we all know to be false cause he isn't that guy you feed in the paint he is more of a stretch the floor kinda big guy.
Another day another team interested in Melo, today is the most interesting one of them all the Lakers. To me it makes not much sense why they would want to get rid of Bynum to add Melo. Don't get me wrong I know anytime you have a shot at getting a guy like Melo you take it. But for the Lakers I don't think he is a good fit IF they take away Bynum, cause they keep talking about how they need to play defense. By taking away Bynum you take away a lot of your defense and plus Melo hasn't played in that style of offense, I am not saying he can't cause obviously he can but there aren't many games left and I just don't see it being the greatest trade for the Lakers. Maybe Artest, Fisher and one more player and maybe get another team involved but not Bynum. No one has seen what Bynum can do I know you might think he is fragile but we don't know that yet. He is only 23 and because of injuries he hasn't played many games I would wait to see him healthy for a whole year then trade him away and regret it after Kobe is gone. I know Melo would possibly be there but still.
Now lets hope I get better with my picks for tomorrow...The Pistons travel to Cleveland to play the Cav's and while the Cav's have been playing much better and the Pistons aren't a great road team I still don't think that they will lose to the Cav's. I think the one chance the Cav's have at a win is when they play the Wizards later this week. I am not saying it for sure won't happen tomorrow, but I am picking the Pistons. The Bobcats play the Pacers, even though the Pacers had a tough loss in Miami tonight, they have to travel back home and play the Bobcats tomorrow. The Bobcats are coming off a days rest I know they have to travel but I am still going with the team who has the fresh legs, I got the Bobcats over the Pacers. The Hornets at the Nets and while the Hornets are in one of their slumps for the season I think they still come away with a win tomorrow on the road. The Magic travel to Philly to play the Sixers and both are coming off games tonight but I think the Magic are back to their winning ways and tomorrow will hopefully prove that. I am taking the Magic to beat a good Sixers team. I think that as long as they get a good night from their perimeter guys then they will have a good shot at winning every night the way Dwight Howard has been playing. The Bucks travel to Washington to play the Wizards and the Bucks played tonight and it to was on the road. Also the Wizards are a decent team at home I will take the home team with the fresh legs. The Spurs travel to Toronto to play the Raptors and I know the Spurs played tonight and were on the road but the Raptors also played tonight so their legs are not fresh either. All that being said I am taking the Spurs to win on the road and improve to 4-1 on their rodeo road trip. The Clippers travel to New York to take on the Knicks and they aren't a great road team and they played tonight so I am taking the Knicks (even though we all know what happens when I pick the Knicks) I am hoping that Amare has a huge game and the Clippers need big games from Griffin and Davis if they want a chance at a W. Still without Gordon and on the road I don't think the Clippers can pull it off. The Bulls travel to Utah to play the Jazz and while the Jazz have Williams back and are pretty good at home, the Bulls are coming off some tough loses and I know they want to get back to winning. Tomorrow they play a +.500 team, not one of the best but still a very good win if they pull it off which I think they will. I still can't wait for Noah to get back for the Bulls. Just think Rose, Deng, Noah, and Boozer as well as Korver and who ever else they will throw out there. That sounds like a team that can make a strong run at the title. The Mav's travel to play the Kings, even though the game with the Cav's was close I think it was more that the Cav's were play as if it were the NBA finals and the Mav's maybe did take it a little easy, but the way Chandler and Dirk have been playing really its hard to pick against this team. Now if Terry can start to drop 20 a night and really be that second guy to step up with Butler gone then were really talking. Or if Peja can explode onto the scene that'd be great also, but I am taking the Mav's obviously. The Nuggets play the Warriors on the Warriors home floor, since the Nuggets are coming off a loss in which they lose Billups part way through the game, seeing as how he should be back tomorrow night I am taking the Nuggets. If Billups is out then the Warriors have a good shot at this one, still I am taking the Nuggets.
Real quick just wanted to talk some more college hoops, tomorrow I will be giving a recap of both games the Duke game as well as the Syracuse game. There are plenty of great games tomorrow as far as college basketball goes. I really am looking forward to the Duke North Carolina game, I really wanna see what the Tar heels John Henson does tomorrow. I know that Plumlee is bigger as far as size goes, but to me Henson plays a little more gritty and tough then Plumlee does. I have seen Plumlee get tough and the one game that happened Duke looked like no one could beat them. If he could only play like that night in and night out. I mean he is more on and off then Ron and Sam on Jersey shore. If this were not at Duke I would pick North Carolina to pull the upset, who knows they still might.
Really quick hockey note...in a year where early on it looked like all Pen's to start the year injuries have really set them back with their two best players out, Malkin for the rest of the year and who knows how much longer Sid the Kid will be out I am hoping not much longer. I have been watching a lot more hockey on Versus the past few weeks. I know the Rangers aren't the best team but they can score in a hurry and in bunches I really think they are better then their record shows. I know it seems that every team can score in a hurry and in bunches this year. The Canucks have the best record in the NHL but we all know how that pans out in the playoffs. Well maybe not for them but we see how year after year the Sharks are amazing all season then choke hard in the post season. I am excited for the rest of the season now that I have finally some what gotten into it.
I was really impressed with Kentucky tonight finally getting it together and coming away with a huge win at home against Tennessee. Tennessee a really good team and they got their coach back tonight which I thought would have made a huge difference and I thought gave them a huge chacen to pull the upset. Obviously Kentucky had other plans. The really big difference maker tonight was obviously the boards, Tennessee got killed on the glass, getting out rebounded by 10 all together and 5 on the offensive end. With a team like Kentucky you can't give them that many second chances, you need to drive the ball to the lane try and get them in foul trouble, cause they are so thin with only really 6 people that play. We have seen when that happens it's tough for them to get points from people on their bench other then their 6th man. There is other ways but obviously that would be the most obvious. I didn't catch this Purdue game and I know tonight Johnson didn't have an outstanding game but the more I watch him the more I like him. I know he isn't anywhere close to as good as who I am about to name, but he reminds me of Kevin Durrant just his body style and his offense and work ethic he could be a great talent in the NBA. I am not saying he is the next Durrant cause I don't know if he has the pure talent that Durrant has, I know Johnson was working hard last summer on his game and adding things to it which is something only great players do and I look for him to do big things at the next level. Him and Moore are like Durrant and Westbrook.
Another day another team interested in Melo, today is the most interesting one of them all the Lakers. To me it makes not much sense why they would want to get rid of Bynum to add Melo. Don't get me wrong I know anytime you have a shot at getting a guy like Melo you take it. But for the Lakers I don't think he is a good fit IF they take away Bynum, cause they keep talking about how they need to play defense. By taking away Bynum you take away a lot of your defense and plus Melo hasn't played in that style of offense, I am not saying he can't cause obviously he can but there aren't many games left and I just don't see it being the greatest trade for the Lakers. Maybe Artest, Fisher and one more player and maybe get another team involved but not Bynum. No one has seen what Bynum can do I know you might think he is fragile but we don't know that yet. He is only 23 and because of injuries he hasn't played many games I would wait to see him healthy for a whole year then trade him away and regret it after Kobe is gone. I know Melo would possibly be there but still.
Now lets hope I get better with my picks for tomorrow...The Pistons travel to Cleveland to play the Cav's and while the Cav's have been playing much better and the Pistons aren't a great road team I still don't think that they will lose to the Cav's. I think the one chance the Cav's have at a win is when they play the Wizards later this week. I am not saying it for sure won't happen tomorrow, but I am picking the Pistons. The Bobcats play the Pacers, even though the Pacers had a tough loss in Miami tonight, they have to travel back home and play the Bobcats tomorrow. The Bobcats are coming off a days rest I know they have to travel but I am still going with the team who has the fresh legs, I got the Bobcats over the Pacers. The Hornets at the Nets and while the Hornets are in one of their slumps for the season I think they still come away with a win tomorrow on the road. The Magic travel to Philly to play the Sixers and both are coming off games tonight but I think the Magic are back to their winning ways and tomorrow will hopefully prove that. I am taking the Magic to beat a good Sixers team. I think that as long as they get a good night from their perimeter guys then they will have a good shot at winning every night the way Dwight Howard has been playing. The Bucks travel to Washington to play the Wizards and the Bucks played tonight and it to was on the road. Also the Wizards are a decent team at home I will take the home team with the fresh legs. The Spurs travel to Toronto to play the Raptors and I know the Spurs played tonight and were on the road but the Raptors also played tonight so their legs are not fresh either. All that being said I am taking the Spurs to win on the road and improve to 4-1 on their rodeo road trip. The Clippers travel to New York to take on the Knicks and they aren't a great road team and they played tonight so I am taking the Knicks (even though we all know what happens when I pick the Knicks) I am hoping that Amare has a huge game and the Clippers need big games from Griffin and Davis if they want a chance at a W. Still without Gordon and on the road I don't think the Clippers can pull it off. The Bulls travel to Utah to play the Jazz and while the Jazz have Williams back and are pretty good at home, the Bulls are coming off some tough loses and I know they want to get back to winning. Tomorrow they play a +.500 team, not one of the best but still a very good win if they pull it off which I think they will. I still can't wait for Noah to get back for the Bulls. Just think Rose, Deng, Noah, and Boozer as well as Korver and who ever else they will throw out there. That sounds like a team that can make a strong run at the title. The Mav's travel to play the Kings, even though the game with the Cav's was close I think it was more that the Cav's were play as if it were the NBA finals and the Mav's maybe did take it a little easy, but the way Chandler and Dirk have been playing really its hard to pick against this team. Now if Terry can start to drop 20 a night and really be that second guy to step up with Butler gone then were really talking. Or if Peja can explode onto the scene that'd be great also, but I am taking the Mav's obviously. The Nuggets play the Warriors on the Warriors home floor, since the Nuggets are coming off a loss in which they lose Billups part way through the game, seeing as how he should be back tomorrow night I am taking the Nuggets. If Billups is out then the Warriors have a good shot at this one, still I am taking the Nuggets.
Real quick just wanted to talk some more college hoops, tomorrow I will be giving a recap of both games the Duke game as well as the Syracuse game. There are plenty of great games tomorrow as far as college basketball goes. I really am looking forward to the Duke North Carolina game, I really wanna see what the Tar heels John Henson does tomorrow. I know that Plumlee is bigger as far as size goes, but to me Henson plays a little more gritty and tough then Plumlee does. I have seen Plumlee get tough and the one game that happened Duke looked like no one could beat them. If he could only play like that night in and night out. I mean he is more on and off then Ron and Sam on Jersey shore. If this were not at Duke I would pick North Carolina to pull the upset, who knows they still might.
Really quick hockey note...in a year where early on it looked like all Pen's to start the year injuries have really set them back with their two best players out, Malkin for the rest of the year and who knows how much longer Sid the Kid will be out I am hoping not much longer. I have been watching a lot more hockey on Versus the past few weeks. I know the Rangers aren't the best team but they can score in a hurry and in bunches I really think they are better then their record shows. I know it seems that every team can score in a hurry and in bunches this year. The Canucks have the best record in the NHL but we all know how that pans out in the playoffs. Well maybe not for them but we see how year after year the Sharks are amazing all season then choke hard in the post season. I am excited for the rest of the season now that I have finally some what gotten into it.
I was really impressed with Kentucky tonight finally getting it together and coming away with a huge win at home against Tennessee. Tennessee a really good team and they got their coach back tonight which I thought would have made a huge difference and I thought gave them a huge chacen to pull the upset. Obviously Kentucky had other plans. The really big difference maker tonight was obviously the boards, Tennessee got killed on the glass, getting out rebounded by 10 all together and 5 on the offensive end. With a team like Kentucky you can't give them that many second chances, you need to drive the ball to the lane try and get them in foul trouble, cause they are so thin with only really 6 people that play. We have seen when that happens it's tough for them to get points from people on their bench other then their 6th man. There is other ways but obviously that would be the most obvious. I didn't catch this Purdue game and I know tonight Johnson didn't have an outstanding game but the more I watch him the more I like him. I know he isn't anywhere close to as good as who I am about to name, but he reminds me of Kevin Durrant just his body style and his offense and work ethic he could be a great talent in the NBA. I am not saying he is the next Durrant cause I don't know if he has the pure talent that Durrant has, I know Johnson was working hard last summer on his game and adding things to it which is something only great players do and I look for him to do big things at the next level. Him and Moore are like Durrant and Westbrook.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Kicked in the teeth
I just wanted to get on real quick and comment on Silva's fash smashing of Belfot. I am so happy to see Anderson finish the fight with a big K.O. because of some of his last fights people have been trying to take things away from him. He is one of the best MMA fighters we have seen in a long time. In this day and age it is unheard of to have as many title defenses as he has, forget in this day and age in any day and age. He kills it standing up and you know he will make you pay if your on the ground, everytime you watch him fight and you know he is at his best is when you watch him fight and it makes sense why they call him the Spider. Take this last fight for instance he was all over the place his hands never stop moving so it looks like he has 8 arms he hits you from so many places its like he has 8 arms. I am sick of people hating on him cause maybe he got a little careless. If the Laker slack off in the start of the season everyone says Ohh they are the Lakers don't worry, same thing with the Pats or the Yankees ( I can't believe I just said that, for the record I never think the Yankees have a shot at the World series no matter how good their team is) but when Silve dominate everyone in his weight class and the one above his, isn't the guy intitled to get a little bored! I mean come on people! Much more MMA to come I haven't really been watching it much but as I am sure many of you know I am a huge MMA fan as I wrestled in high school and trained at Jacksons for awhile.
That's what I get
After doing so great yesterday it's only right that I do so bad today. I can't say that some of it wasn't my fault. I mean I know the Bobcats play hard every game and I knew the Celtics played last night then had to travel to play the Bobcats, I should have pick the Bobcats. As far as the Hornets losing to the T-Wolves I guess they just had a good game. I am not really surprised the Rockets beat the Nuggets even though Melo went crazy with 50 points. The Nuggets lost Billups to injury I hope it's not serious, but that is a big loss not just cause of points but how he runs the game. The Rockets like I say so much are underrated I did think however without Brooks it would be tough for them to get enough offense for them to beat this Nuggets team especially in Denver, but I guess today just really wasn't my day. Utah actually pulled out the win which is good for me, but the Bulls lose again to a sub par team. I mean the Blazers are good but lets face it they are not great and the Bulls are supposed to be great, and if your going to be great you gotta win these games. I understand it's on the road but still if you wanna be in the same convo as the Lakers, Celtics, and Spurs you gotta win these games. Obviously Aldrige play out of this world for the Blazers this year especially after he found out he wasn't getting picked as an all star he started going off.
Anyways I just wanted to talk about the SuperBowl real quick. After the Game Trent Dilfer said that after we go back and look at this game and see what Aaron Rodgers did and what his numbers would have been without those drops. Then it will be looked at as one of the greatest SuperBowl performances in history. While I totally agree with that, the problem is that his receivers took that away from him. If they would have caught those balls, and we aren't talking bad throws at all not even close were talking perfect pass hitting them right in the hands or number. If you count those, his numbers looks something like this...30-39 404 yards and 4 TD's and that's on the short side of what his yardage numbers would be. If they would have made those catches then YES it would have been THE best outting in the SuperBowl by a QB no doubt in my mind. Even with the drops it was still one of the greatest of all times, but they almost got it right on Sportscenter when they ranked it behind the Young, Sims, Montana, Aikman, then I think Rodgers then Elway. That might be because I am a Packer fan and that game Elway had was against the Packers. But really I think Rodgers was great and you can't take that away from him. Like I have been saying since before the SuperBowl, this team is young and they are not getting any worse next year. They add the best tightend/Wideout cause Finely does so much in the slot that you have to call him both, and they got Grant coming back and Barnett on the other side of the ball. I know repeating in the NFL is one of the hardest things to do, but I really like the Packers chances for next year as I (Knock on wood!!) have said many times on this blog.
Anyways lets get on to my NBA picks for tomorrow I promise I will get back to my old self. Philly travels to the ATL to play the Hawks and while Philly is doing a lot better this second half I don't think they are any match up for the Hawks, I look for Joe Johnson to have a huge game tomorrow as well as the rest of the Hawks big 3. I remeber the day when you could say the Big 3 and everyone knew it was the Celtics...now every team that's any team has some version of their big 3. I don't just say Big 3 cause it's easier to type (even though it is easier to type that then their names) I say it because those players are huge time players and earn that right to be called that. So I am taking the home team, incase you haven't noticed I really like the Hawks. The Clippers are on the road to play the Magic and while the Magic and Clippers both are coming off tough loses I am goin to go with the underdog here and I am goin to take th Clippers to pull it out in the Orlando, call me crazy I just think that the Magic are in a slump right now. I am not saying they won't figure it out, who knows maybe they figure it out tomorrow and I will be wrong but I am going with the Clippers. The Pacers play the Heat in Miami and while the Pacers haven't lost a game under their new head coach, there is a first for eveything and for them tomorrow will be their first loss under their new head coach. I don't see anyway the Heat lose unless James has another season low as well as all the other Big 3. Man did I hit that Eddie house thing on the head. I knew as soon as I heard he signed with them that he'd be the perfect fit around those guys, just like he was the perfect fit with the original big 3. The Raptors play the Bucks and while these teams are some what equally matched I am going to go with the Raptors even though they are on the road I just have a feel DeRozan will have a huge game and the Raptors...no scratch that I am taking the Bucks even though DeRozan will have a huge game. The Grizzlies travel to OKC to play the Thunder, and not only are the Thunder a great team the Grizzlies played tonight now they have to travel and take on an elite team I got the Thunder at home. The last game of the night is the T-Wolves at the Rockets and while both of them played tonight and both will travel I am taking the Rockets at home and Scola will have a huge game with 20-10 and 2 blocks or steals.
Real quick I hear that the Cardinals and Pujols are no where near a deal, isn't there like 12 days till pitchers and catchers report. I think that it will take more then 12 days for them to get close, unless they just wait it out to see if he is serious then once they see he is serious about leaving they will hit him with the full 300 million just watch! I really hope that doesn't happen I hope that they get a deal done in a week something like 7 years for 30 million with and option for maybe 1 or MAAAYYYBBBEE 2 more years. Like they were saying today Holliday is not nearly the same without Pujols in that lineup and really that team as a whole is not nearly the same. They HAVE to sign him and if they don't I don't know where he will go but I am sure that someone will grab him, he is one of the best in the game right now if not the best.
Anyways I just wanted to talk about the SuperBowl real quick. After the Game Trent Dilfer said that after we go back and look at this game and see what Aaron Rodgers did and what his numbers would have been without those drops. Then it will be looked at as one of the greatest SuperBowl performances in history. While I totally agree with that, the problem is that his receivers took that away from him. If they would have caught those balls, and we aren't talking bad throws at all not even close were talking perfect pass hitting them right in the hands or number. If you count those, his numbers looks something like this...30-39 404 yards and 4 TD's and that's on the short side of what his yardage numbers would be. If they would have made those catches then YES it would have been THE best outting in the SuperBowl by a QB no doubt in my mind. Even with the drops it was still one of the greatest of all times, but they almost got it right on Sportscenter when they ranked it behind the Young, Sims, Montana, Aikman, then I think Rodgers then Elway. That might be because I am a Packer fan and that game Elway had was against the Packers. But really I think Rodgers was great and you can't take that away from him. Like I have been saying since before the SuperBowl, this team is young and they are not getting any worse next year. They add the best tightend/Wideout cause Finely does so much in the slot that you have to call him both, and they got Grant coming back and Barnett on the other side of the ball. I know repeating in the NFL is one of the hardest things to do, but I really like the Packers chances for next year as I (Knock on wood!!) have said many times on this blog.
Anyways lets get on to my NBA picks for tomorrow I promise I will get back to my old self. Philly travels to the ATL to play the Hawks and while Philly is doing a lot better this second half I don't think they are any match up for the Hawks, I look for Joe Johnson to have a huge game tomorrow as well as the rest of the Hawks big 3. I remeber the day when you could say the Big 3 and everyone knew it was the Celtics...now every team that's any team has some version of their big 3. I don't just say Big 3 cause it's easier to type (even though it is easier to type that then their names) I say it because those players are huge time players and earn that right to be called that. So I am taking the home team, incase you haven't noticed I really like the Hawks. The Clippers are on the road to play the Magic and while the Magic and Clippers both are coming off tough loses I am goin to go with the underdog here and I am goin to take th Clippers to pull it out in the Orlando, call me crazy I just think that the Magic are in a slump right now. I am not saying they won't figure it out, who knows maybe they figure it out tomorrow and I will be wrong but I am going with the Clippers. The Pacers play the Heat in Miami and while the Pacers haven't lost a game under their new head coach, there is a first for eveything and for them tomorrow will be their first loss under their new head coach. I don't see anyway the Heat lose unless James has another season low as well as all the other Big 3. Man did I hit that Eddie house thing on the head. I knew as soon as I heard he signed with them that he'd be the perfect fit around those guys, just like he was the perfect fit with the original big 3. The Raptors play the Bucks and while these teams are some what equally matched I am going to go with the Raptors even though they are on the road I just have a feel DeRozan will have a huge game and the Raptors...no scratch that I am taking the Bucks even though DeRozan will have a huge game. The Grizzlies travel to OKC to play the Thunder, and not only are the Thunder a great team the Grizzlies played tonight now they have to travel and take on an elite team I got the Thunder at home. The last game of the night is the T-Wolves at the Rockets and while both of them played tonight and both will travel I am taking the Rockets at home and Scola will have a huge game with 20-10 and 2 blocks or steals.
Real quick I hear that the Cardinals and Pujols are no where near a deal, isn't there like 12 days till pitchers and catchers report. I think that it will take more then 12 days for them to get close, unless they just wait it out to see if he is serious then once they see he is serious about leaving they will hit him with the full 300 million just watch! I really hope that doesn't happen I hope that they get a deal done in a week something like 7 years for 30 million with and option for maybe 1 or MAAAYYYBBBEE 2 more years. Like they were saying today Holliday is not nearly the same without Pujols in that lineup and really that team as a whole is not nearly the same. They HAVE to sign him and if they don't I don't know where he will go but I am sure that someone will grab him, he is one of the best in the game right now if not the best.
Perfect ending
Not only did my Packers win the SuperBowl but I also went 4-0 in NBA picks yesterday, oh yeah and did I mention I was only 3 points off the exact score of the game...If you don't recall I had it Packers 31 Steelers 28 and if you don't believe me you can check tape! Lol but its in my post from 18 hours before the Superbowl. So yeah I would say I had a pretty good sunday.
I hope that my picks today are as good as yesterday. The Celtics are on the road to play the Bobcats and I will take the Celtics coming off a big win against the Magic. A game in which Rondo put on a great shooting performance. Right Rondo of all people draining 3's like nothing, going 9-15 from the floor only 7 dimes but still he had 25 points. The T-Wolves play the Hornets and while Kevin Love is having an all star season it won't be enough to beat the CP3 and the Hornets. The Lakers go to Memphis to play the Grizzlies. While the Grizzlies are hot and seaking their 3rd straight win the Lakers are a tough team to beat. If Pau plays the way he did last game I don't see how the Grizzlies would have a chace. Even though they are great on their home court, I saw them lose there to the Bulls and the Bulls are good but I think the way Pau is playing and Bynum only getting healthier and Kobe getting back to being Kobe I think the Lakers are starting to get rolling so Grizzlies watch out. The Cav's travel to Dallas to play the Mav's where they will lose their 25th straight game. I think this could be a trap game but the Mav's have won 7 straight and want to make it 8 so they will be ready to win and won't look past the Cav's I think they will put on a good show for the home crowd. The Rockets play the Nuggets in Denver and while the trade rumors are back we know that they won't affect Melo. The rest of his team who knows I still think the Rockets are better then people think but with Brooks out tonight and they are on the road I can't pick them so I am going with the home team. The Bulls go to Portland to play the Blazers where the Blazers are great but I think the Bulls will come away with the road win, as long as they show up to play they should be fine. The Jazz are on the road where they are not the greatest but they are playing the Kings and Williams is back so I think it is safe to pick the Jazz away from home this one time. The Suns travel to play the Warriors tonight and while the Suns have been playing great I think the Warriors will come away with a win they are at home and a little underrated.
I hope that my picks today are as good as yesterday. The Celtics are on the road to play the Bobcats and I will take the Celtics coming off a big win against the Magic. A game in which Rondo put on a great shooting performance. Right Rondo of all people draining 3's like nothing, going 9-15 from the floor only 7 dimes but still he had 25 points. The T-Wolves play the Hornets and while Kevin Love is having an all star season it won't be enough to beat the CP3 and the Hornets. The Lakers go to Memphis to play the Grizzlies. While the Grizzlies are hot and seaking their 3rd straight win the Lakers are a tough team to beat. If Pau plays the way he did last game I don't see how the Grizzlies would have a chace. Even though they are great on their home court, I saw them lose there to the Bulls and the Bulls are good but I think the way Pau is playing and Bynum only getting healthier and Kobe getting back to being Kobe I think the Lakers are starting to get rolling so Grizzlies watch out. The Cav's travel to Dallas to play the Mav's where they will lose their 25th straight game. I think this could be a trap game but the Mav's have won 7 straight and want to make it 8 so they will be ready to win and won't look past the Cav's I think they will put on a good show for the home crowd. The Rockets play the Nuggets in Denver and while the trade rumors are back we know that they won't affect Melo. The rest of his team who knows I still think the Rockets are better then people think but with Brooks out tonight and they are on the road I can't pick them so I am going with the home team. The Bulls go to Portland to play the Blazers where the Blazers are great but I think the Bulls will come away with the road win, as long as they show up to play they should be fine. The Jazz are on the road where they are not the greatest but they are playing the Kings and Williams is back so I think it is safe to pick the Jazz away from home this one time. The Suns travel to play the Warriors tonight and while the Suns have been playing great I think the Warriors will come away with a win they are at home and a little underrated.
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