1. Dallas Mavericks (44-9)- To make things even better for Dallas, no team has ever gotten off to as good of a start as they have and not won the NBA title.
2. Phoenix Suns (39-13)- They have gone in a bit of a tailspin since their 17-game winning streak, losing five of eight, but they're by no means frauds.
3. Detroit Pistons (32-19)- They closed out before the All-Star break in style, winning eight of 10. They are the clear-cut favorites in the Eastern Conference.
4. San Antonio Spurs (35-18)- You can't discount a second-half run by the Spurs, a team that has sort of flown under the radar as they have been overshadowed by Dallas and Phoenix.
5. Utah Jazz (35-17)- It looks like they are for real. They have been winning even without Carlos Boozer, and it appears that they already have the Northwest locked up.
6. Houston Rockets (33-19)- Tracy McGrady has stepped up in Yao Ming's absence, leading his team to a 17-8 record during that span. He's a sleeper MVP candidate.
7. Washington Wizards (29-21)- Gilbert Arenas has become a loudmouth over the past month, and the Wizards have slumped lately. Either way, they are a contender in the weak East.
8. Cleveland Cavaliers (31-22)- LeBron James is not having near the kind of season he had last year, but he still has his team as the two-seed in the East. However, there is something missing here.
9. Miami Heat (26-26)- You knew they were going to make a run sooner or later. Now that Shaquille O'Neal is healthy, expect them to edge out Washington for the division crown.
10. Minnesota Timberwolves (25-27)- With Kevin Garnett, you can never count Minnesota. Despite some recent struggles, they hold the eighth spot in the West. Expect them to ship out a guard for a big man by the deadline.
11. Toronto Raptors (29-24)- What a surprise this team has been. It had potential right from the start, but no one expected this. Chris Bosh may be a poor man's Garnett.
12. Los Angeles Lakers (30-24)- Losers of five straight, some say the Phil Jackson-Kobe Bryant relationship is ready to explode. If the Lakers don't right themselves soon, that may very well happen.
13. Indiana Pacers (28-24)- Somehow, this team has managed to maintain a playoff spot and remain several games over .500. Still, Jamaal Tinsley is on the trading block.
14. Denver Nuggets (26-25)- The Allen Iverson experience hasn't worked out as well as Denver hoped, as he has missed eight games due to a sprained ankle. Still, a healthy A.I. makes this team dangerous.
15. Chicago Bulls (29-25)- Arguably one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA this season, the Bulls have been a model of inconsistency. Nevertheless, they are still a threat in the watered down East.
16. New Orleans Hornets (25-28)- The return of Chris Paul has sparked this squad, as expected. With David West now healthy as well, expect a late-season surge from New Orleans.
17. Orlando Magic (27-26)- They have slipped tremendously since their hot start, and Dwight Howard's production has dwindled a bit. But I'll keep reiterating it: anything can happen in the East.
18. Los Angeles Clippers (25-28)- They have been the NBA's biggest flop this year, bar none. And what in the world has happened to Elton Brand? 24.7 and 10.3 last year, 20.7 and 9.2 this year.
19. New York Knicks (23-30)- The Knicks can easily turn around and win the Atlantic. They are the most talented team in the division, and if they can add Rashard Lewis as rumored, they'll be a major factor come playoff time.
20. Golden State Warriors (25-29)- Here's another of the NBA's list of disappointments, due much in part to injuries. Jason Richardson hasn't played since December, and it wasn't like he was playing that great anyway.
21. New Jersey Nets (25-29)- Yet another flop. The Nets have gone from a team predicted to reach the NBA Finals by some to a team looking to trade Jason Kidd and Vince Carter. The future doesn't look too promising.
22. Sacramento Kings (22-29)- Kevin Martin is the only bright spot on this team. Ron Artest has been a bust as a King, not to mention he and Mike Bibby can't get along. This team is in need of an extreme makeover.
23. Portland Trail Blazers (22-32)- They are very talented, but Portland is simply not ready to contend for a playoff spot yet. Either way, Brandon Roy is the clear favorite to take Rookie of the Year honors.
24. Seattle Supersonics (20-32)- It is becoming more and more evident that their magical 2004-2005 was just that; a fluke. Now Lewis appears to be on his way out, and Ray Allen and Luke Ridnour may be as well.
25. Atlanta Hawks (21-31)- Their 4-1 start was obviously a mirage. But hey; they finally had an All-Star in Joe Johnson, and Josh Smith, Josh Childress, and Marvin Williams make for a pretty bright future.
26. Milwaukee Bucks (19-34)- They had the looks of a sure-fire playoff team at the beginning of the season, but the Bucks have been flat-out awful. Andrew Bogut is starting to solidify his status as a bust.
27. Charlotte Bobcats (19-33)- Charlotte definitely has shown signs of life this season. Although Adam Morrison has been a disappointment, there are plenty of players on this team whom can make it a playoff contender soon.
28. Philadelphia 76ers (17-36)- Not only did they trade Iverson away, but now it doesn't even look like they will be bad enough to snag Kevin Durant or Greg Oden in the draft.
29. Boston Celtics (13-38)- With all of the talent on this team, it's hard to fathom that they lost 18 games in a row. Al Jefferson is developing into a star, and Ryan Gomes and company are coming along as well.
30. Memphis Grizzlies (14-40)- I don't know if I've ever seen a team take such a big step back in one year. Last season, they went 45-37 and made the playoffs. This year, well...yeah.
Monday, February 19, 2007
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
A Giant collapse? Not uh
I'll admit it. When the news first broke that the New York Giants had released LaVar Arrington and Luke Petitgout yesterday, I was shocked, stunned, and, quite frankly, appalled. How can the Giants seriously cut Arrington, a 28-year old linebacker whom New York gave a seven-year, $49 million incentive-laden contract last April, and Petitgout, a 30-year old tackle who has spent all eight of his NFL seasons with the Giants? Bad moves? They would seem to be at first glance, but when one looks at the big picture, their opinion instantly changes.
The Giants not only released Arrington and Petigout, but also Carlos Emmons and Chad Morton. Emmons, a 33-year old linebacker, was as sturdy as a piece of paper and, although he had his moments with New York, is no longer capable of playing a full-time role. Morton, a 29-year old halfback used as a kick returner, used to be a great return man with the New York Jets and Washington Redskins, but his production dipped tremendously since becoming a member of Big Blue. What is the point here? These cuts gave the Giants around $25 million in cap space when combined with the retirement of Tiki Barber.
So what does New York do next? Simple. They go after the biggest names on the free agent market, such as Lance Briggs, Adalius Thomas, Nate Clements, and Asante Samuel. When the Giants signed Plaxico Burress, Antonio Pierce, Kareem McKenzie, and Jay Feely during the 2005 off-season, they had only $9 million of cap room to work with. Imagine what they can do with in between $25-30 million? I can see the G-Men picking up at least two of these commodities. Briggs will most likely be their primary target at linebacker, and Clements at cornerback. However, Thomas and Samuel aren't slouches themselves.
New general manager Jerry Reese knows exactly what he is doing. With the recent news that Arrington is contemplating retirement due to a slew of injuries over the past several years, any other GM would have done the same thing. Petitgout's injury was also more severe than originally anticipated, as even when his leg was fully healed late in the season, he still could not take the field. All Reese did was get rid of two injury-plagued players (who are most likely past their prime) to free up millions of dollars in cap space to sign younger, more talented names.
There are also rumors coming out of New York that Reese and head coach Tom Coughlin are considering starting Mathias Kiwanuka at linebacker next season. The 23-year old Kiwanuka, New York's first-round draft pick last year, tallied 53 tackles, four sacks, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles as a defensive end in the 2006-2007 campaign. "Kiwi," as he is called, did not even start the entire season, as he began the year behind Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora on the depth chart. Then, when both Strahan and Umenyiora went down, Kiwanuka got his chance to showcase his skills, and he did so in a very big way. He certainly has the speed and the talent to play linebacker, and his close-to-6'7" frame will allow him to bat down many passes.
To cover the vacancy at left tackle, the Giants will either sign a free agent or go with second-year man Guy Whimper, who, although he didn't make a single appearance on the offensive line last year, is extremely talented. The big-name free agent that New York may look at to fill the void left by Petigout is massive Leonard Davis, a 6'6", 370-pound behemoth who has spent all six of his NFL seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. Davis would team up with McKenzie to form the biggest, and one of the best, tackle combos in the National Football League.
So, here is a breakdown of Big Blue's potential free agent targets, listed in order of importance to the Giants:
1. Lance Briggs, OLB- The 26-year old Briggs has already developed into one of the best linebackers in the league. Last season, he posted 130 tackles, two interceptions and forced four fumbles en route to his second consecutive Pro Bowl appearance. He will be New York's primary target in free agency this off-season, and although he will command a hefty price tag, Reese will be willing to dish out the cash. Still, there remains the possibility that he will be franchise-tagged by the Chicago Bears.
2. Adalius Thomas, OLB- Thomas, 29, is one of the most versatile defensive players in the NFL. He can play linebacker, defensive end, and even safety on occasion. The 270-pounder recorded 83 tackles and 11 sacks last season. He is one of the best pass-rushing linebackers in the business and would form a formidable attack with Strahan, Umenyiora, Kiwanuka, and Fred Robbins in terms of attacking the quarterback. If the Giants aren't able to get their hands on Briggs, expect them to turn their attention to Thomas, although he may be franchise-tagged by the Baltimore Ravens.
3. Nate Clements, CB- Clements is a game-changing cornerback. At the ripe age of 27, he has already stamped his name among the best corners in the National Football League. Clements racked up 70 tackles and three picks last season and also forced and recovered two fumbles to boot. He once forced five fumbles in a season, and in that same year, logged six interceptions and 73 tackles. His career high in stops is 99, and he has amassed five defensive touchdowns in his six-year career. Clements is the best cornerback on the market and will not be franchised by the Buffalo Bills.
4. Asante Samuel, CB- Some reports stated that Samuel would definitely be franchised by the New England Patriots, but those reports are now being conflicted by others that say New England will use their franchise tag on tight end Daniel Graham. If that's the case, then expect the 26-year old Samuel to be one of the most sought after free agents in recent memory. He intercepted 10 passes during the regular season last year and two in the post-season, both for touchdowns. He also totaled 64 tackles and defended 14 passes. Samuel really showcased his talent in the playoffs this season, deflecting virtually any ball that came his way.
5. Leonard Davis, T- As I said before, the guy is huge. Although Davis hasn't lived up to expectations, due much in part to his laziness and lack of work ethic, he will still be a highly targeted free agent in the off-season. His sheer size provides a wall for the quarterback to throw behind, and he is probably the strongest player in the NFL. The 28-year old Davis is a top five tackle in the league when he is at the top of his game, and I can't see him being lazy under Coughlin. Expect the Giants to make a run at him, although the four players above will probably command more attention.
The Giants not only released Arrington and Petigout, but also Carlos Emmons and Chad Morton. Emmons, a 33-year old linebacker, was as sturdy as a piece of paper and, although he had his moments with New York, is no longer capable of playing a full-time role. Morton, a 29-year old halfback used as a kick returner, used to be a great return man with the New York Jets and Washington Redskins, but his production dipped tremendously since becoming a member of Big Blue. What is the point here? These cuts gave the Giants around $25 million in cap space when combined with the retirement of Tiki Barber.
So what does New York do next? Simple. They go after the biggest names on the free agent market, such as Lance Briggs, Adalius Thomas, Nate Clements, and Asante Samuel. When the Giants signed Plaxico Burress, Antonio Pierce, Kareem McKenzie, and Jay Feely during the 2005 off-season, they had only $9 million of cap room to work with. Imagine what they can do with in between $25-30 million? I can see the G-Men picking up at least two of these commodities. Briggs will most likely be their primary target at linebacker, and Clements at cornerback. However, Thomas and Samuel aren't slouches themselves.
New general manager Jerry Reese knows exactly what he is doing. With the recent news that Arrington is contemplating retirement due to a slew of injuries over the past several years, any other GM would have done the same thing. Petitgout's injury was also more severe than originally anticipated, as even when his leg was fully healed late in the season, he still could not take the field. All Reese did was get rid of two injury-plagued players (who are most likely past their prime) to free up millions of dollars in cap space to sign younger, more talented names.
There are also rumors coming out of New York that Reese and head coach Tom Coughlin are considering starting Mathias Kiwanuka at linebacker next season. The 23-year old Kiwanuka, New York's first-round draft pick last year, tallied 53 tackles, four sacks, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles as a defensive end in the 2006-2007 campaign. "Kiwi," as he is called, did not even start the entire season, as he began the year behind Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora on the depth chart. Then, when both Strahan and Umenyiora went down, Kiwanuka got his chance to showcase his skills, and he did so in a very big way. He certainly has the speed and the talent to play linebacker, and his close-to-6'7" frame will allow him to bat down many passes.
To cover the vacancy at left tackle, the Giants will either sign a free agent or go with second-year man Guy Whimper, who, although he didn't make a single appearance on the offensive line last year, is extremely talented. The big-name free agent that New York may look at to fill the void left by Petigout is massive Leonard Davis, a 6'6", 370-pound behemoth who has spent all six of his NFL seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. Davis would team up with McKenzie to form the biggest, and one of the best, tackle combos in the National Football League.
So, here is a breakdown of Big Blue's potential free agent targets, listed in order of importance to the Giants:
1. Lance Briggs, OLB- The 26-year old Briggs has already developed into one of the best linebackers in the league. Last season, he posted 130 tackles, two interceptions and forced four fumbles en route to his second consecutive Pro Bowl appearance. He will be New York's primary target in free agency this off-season, and although he will command a hefty price tag, Reese will be willing to dish out the cash. Still, there remains the possibility that he will be franchise-tagged by the Chicago Bears.
2. Adalius Thomas, OLB- Thomas, 29, is one of the most versatile defensive players in the NFL. He can play linebacker, defensive end, and even safety on occasion. The 270-pounder recorded 83 tackles and 11 sacks last season. He is one of the best pass-rushing linebackers in the business and would form a formidable attack with Strahan, Umenyiora, Kiwanuka, and Fred Robbins in terms of attacking the quarterback. If the Giants aren't able to get their hands on Briggs, expect them to turn their attention to Thomas, although he may be franchise-tagged by the Baltimore Ravens.
3. Nate Clements, CB- Clements is a game-changing cornerback. At the ripe age of 27, he has already stamped his name among the best corners in the National Football League. Clements racked up 70 tackles and three picks last season and also forced and recovered two fumbles to boot. He once forced five fumbles in a season, and in that same year, logged six interceptions and 73 tackles. His career high in stops is 99, and he has amassed five defensive touchdowns in his six-year career. Clements is the best cornerback on the market and will not be franchised by the Buffalo Bills.
4. Asante Samuel, CB- Some reports stated that Samuel would definitely be franchised by the New England Patriots, but those reports are now being conflicted by others that say New England will use their franchise tag on tight end Daniel Graham. If that's the case, then expect the 26-year old Samuel to be one of the most sought after free agents in recent memory. He intercepted 10 passes during the regular season last year and two in the post-season, both for touchdowns. He also totaled 64 tackles and defended 14 passes. Samuel really showcased his talent in the playoffs this season, deflecting virtually any ball that came his way.
5. Leonard Davis, T- As I said before, the guy is huge. Although Davis hasn't lived up to expectations, due much in part to his laziness and lack of work ethic, he will still be a highly targeted free agent in the off-season. His sheer size provides a wall for the quarterback to throw behind, and he is probably the strongest player in the NFL. The 28-year old Davis is a top five tackle in the league when he is at the top of his game, and I can't see him being lazy under Coughlin. Expect the Giants to make a run at him, although the four players above will probably command more attention.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Giant cuts: Arrington, Petitgout, Emmons
The New York Giants made three cuts on Monday, deciding to part ways with linebackers LaVar Arrington and Carlos Emmons and tackle Luke Petitgout.
Arrington was signed by the Giants to a seven-year, $49 million incentive-laden contract in April of last year. His 2006-2007 season was cut short after six games due to a torn Achilles suffered against the Dallas Cowboys on October 23rd. The 29-year old tallied 16 tackles and a sack.
Emmons spent three seasons with New York after signing with the team in 2004. He missed four games this season because of multiple injuries and played in only nine games during the 2005-2006 season. The 33-year old Emmons recorded 207 tackles in 36 games with the Giants.
Petitgout has played all eight of his NFL seasons with the Giants, helping the team advance to the Super Bowl in the 2000-2001 campaign. A broken leg stopped the 30-year old's season after nine games this year, and he was never able to return to the field.
New York is also expected to cut halfback and kick returner Chad Morton and wide receiver Tim Carter.
Potential targets for the Giants in free agency are linebackers Lance Briggs and Adalius Thomas, cornerbacks Nate Clements and Asante Samuel, and tackle Leonard Davis.
Other notes:
Tackle Bob Whitfield announced his retirement today.
Arrington was signed by the Giants to a seven-year, $49 million incentive-laden contract in April of last year. His 2006-2007 season was cut short after six games due to a torn Achilles suffered against the Dallas Cowboys on October 23rd. The 29-year old tallied 16 tackles and a sack.
Emmons spent three seasons with New York after signing with the team in 2004. He missed four games this season because of multiple injuries and played in only nine games during the 2005-2006 season. The 33-year old Emmons recorded 207 tackles in 36 games with the Giants.
Petitgout has played all eight of his NFL seasons with the Giants, helping the team advance to the Super Bowl in the 2000-2001 campaign. A broken leg stopped the 30-year old's season after nine games this year, and he was never able to return to the field.
New York is also expected to cut halfback and kick returner Chad Morton and wide receiver Tim Carter.
Potential targets for the Giants in free agency are linebackers Lance Briggs and Adalius Thomas, cornerbacks Nate Clements and Asante Samuel, and tackle Leonard Davis.
Other notes:
Tackle Bob Whitfield announced his retirement today.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Bonds not a Giant yet; May for Clemens? No
Bonds finally a Giant? Not so fast
A day after a report came out that Barry Bonds had signed a one-year, $15.8 million deal with the San Francisco Giants, the MLB rejected the transaction because Bonds' personal appearance clause was "not in concert with the basic agreement." According to Bonds' agent, Jeff Borris, Bonds had not signed the deal and will not sign any documents at this time.
Rockies tried to send Helton to Baltimore
The Colorado Rockies not only attempted to trade Todd Helton to the Boston Red Sox, but they also contacted the Baltimore Orioles about his services. The Orioles backed out of a potential deal because they would be forced to pay a significant amount of Helton's contract.
Clemens will not return in May; wants to win
Roger Clemens has been tossing batting practice to Houston Astros' minor-leaguers, but does not foresee a return to the mound by May. He did indicate that he will pitch in 2007, however, as he stated that he is not dealing with retirement well. Clemens said that he wants a chance to win a ring, and made hints that he is leaning toward the New York Yankees as his team of choice. The Boston Red Sox and the Astros remain potential suitors, as well.
Rowand for Linebrink?
ESPN's Buster Olney has reported that the Philadelphia Phillies have been talking with the San Diego Padres about trading center-fielder Aaron Rowand for relief pitcher Scott Linebrink. However, Olney said that this deal is likely on hold until springtime.
Cardinals will most likely attempt to trade for starter
After losing Jeff Weaver via free agency to the Seattle Mariners, the St. Louis Cardinals now have a gaping hole in their starting rotation. Potential suitors include Brad Penny of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Jon Lieber of the Philadelphia Phillies, and Carl Pavano of the New York Yankees.
Tony Armas Jr. to Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates have agreed to a one-year deal with starter Tony Armas Jr. The 28-year old Armas went 9-12 with a 5.03 ERA with the Washington Nationals last season.
A day after a report came out that Barry Bonds had signed a one-year, $15.8 million deal with the San Francisco Giants, the MLB rejected the transaction because Bonds' personal appearance clause was "not in concert with the basic agreement." According to Bonds' agent, Jeff Borris, Bonds had not signed the deal and will not sign any documents at this time.
Rockies tried to send Helton to Baltimore
The Colorado Rockies not only attempted to trade Todd Helton to the Boston Red Sox, but they also contacted the Baltimore Orioles about his services. The Orioles backed out of a potential deal because they would be forced to pay a significant amount of Helton's contract.
Clemens will not return in May; wants to win
Roger Clemens has been tossing batting practice to Houston Astros' minor-leaguers, but does not foresee a return to the mound by May. He did indicate that he will pitch in 2007, however, as he stated that he is not dealing with retirement well. Clemens said that he wants a chance to win a ring, and made hints that he is leaning toward the New York Yankees as his team of choice. The Boston Red Sox and the Astros remain potential suitors, as well.
Rowand for Linebrink?
ESPN's Buster Olney has reported that the Philadelphia Phillies have been talking with the San Diego Padres about trading center-fielder Aaron Rowand for relief pitcher Scott Linebrink. However, Olney said that this deal is likely on hold until springtime.
Cardinals will most likely attempt to trade for starter
After losing Jeff Weaver via free agency to the Seattle Mariners, the St. Louis Cardinals now have a gaping hole in their starting rotation. Potential suitors include Brad Penny of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Jon Lieber of the Philadelphia Phillies, and Carl Pavano of the New York Yankees.
Tony Armas Jr. to Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates have agreed to a one-year deal with starter Tony Armas Jr. The 28-year old Armas went 9-12 with a 5.03 ERA with the Washington Nationals last season.
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