Some thoughts on the Phoenix Suns.
-They lost games at home this weekend to Miami and New Jersey.
-Dwyane Wade and Devin Harris each went over 40 - Devin Harris for a mind-boggling 47.
(Props, by the way, to Plumber's Nets for jumping out to a 9-7 start, and especially to Harris who is playing at a level with the best players in the league right now. I am guessing Lawrence Frank will get no credit from Plumber, though.)
-I am guessing we can retire Raja Bell's rep as a defensive stopper after Wade and Harris' performances.
-Shaq was a minor factor both nights. Against Miami he didn't even play down the stretch. Not sure about the NJ game. Still, he insists everything will be okay as soon as they get the new offense down. I've heard that type of rationalizing from him before, right before he went out and kept having the same lukewarm performances game after game after game. Look - just watch him. He can't finish plays inside. Who trades for a guy who can't finish plays inside, when his only true skill is finishing plays inside?
-Amare Stoudamire is already complaining about his limited role in the offense as they slow the ball down and try to force feed Shaq.
-Steve Nash's numbers are down.
- The are, to be fair, 11-7, which is very respectable, but lack quality wins on the resume, and the losses at home to .500ish teams are troubling.
-The trade for Shaq, somehow, was made, according to the Suns organization, to improve the defense. That an unfathomable, indefensible notion. So far this season, anchored by Shawn Marion, Miami leads the NBA in forcing turnovers, and is in the top ten in defensive efficiency without a rotation player over 6'8". The Suns are languishing in the low 20s, which actually represents a drop for them. Even watching them play it is obvious it is difficult to defend with Shaq on the court because opponents will put him in space on pick and rolls, etc.
-Last year, before the season started, Dos Minutos went on record as claiming that "this will not end well" (the Shaq situation). Specifically, we asked the question "when it turns out that the team functions more efficiently with Mark Blount on the court, what are you prepared to do? Are you prepared to trade Shaq? Because you can't sit him on the bench behind Mark Blount. And if they aren't winning, and they aren't going to win because Dwyane Wade is still hurt and Shaq can't play anymore, it is going to get ugly faster than anyone imagines."
As it turned out, the team did not function more efficiently with Mark Blount on the court. However, they did not function efficiently with Shaq on the court either, and they didn't win because Dywane Wade was still injured and Shaq can't play anymore. It got ugly even earlier than Dos Minutos expected. As it turns out, they were willing to move Shaq, and somehow found a willing trade partner in Phoenix.
-All of this is a long way of asking the question: what is Phoenix going to do? The run of the past few years is over. Nash and Stoudamire are both free agents after next season (along with LeBron, Wade, et al). Shaq's contract is up after that season as well. Are you going to keep putting Shaq out there, play a slow bump and grind game which doesn't cater to Nash or Stoudmire's strengths, and probably won't be that successful in the standings? The risk is that you continue to alienate Stoudmire - he is already upset, and he is the only youngish building block on the team. Are you going to see if someone else will take Shaq from you? Do you try to move Nash to a contender to get younger, since he will bring more than Shaq? Do you just blow the whole thing up and try to move Stoudamire and rebuild all over? Tough to answer, especially when you factor in that ownership, generally, seems loathe to do anything but cut costs - which made the Shaq trade even odder, because they absorbed an extra year at 20 million per. It will get ugly, and it will get ugly before February. Dos Minutos' prediction is that Nash and Stoudamire don't both survive the trading deadline - one gets moved to a contender for draft picks and expiring contracts. I can't see them finding a place to move Shaq, so they are on their own there...Godspeed, Steve Kerr!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Clippers 97 Heat 96
6 Thoughts
1) Tough loss on the road to a struggling Clippers team. It was the first true close game Miami has played this year - they hadn't had a game decided by 4 points or less to date.
2) It was also the first game of the season in which refereeing was a huge factor. The Clippers, especially Al Thornton and Zach Randolph, were allowed to be very physical inside on the boards, which led to a +8 Clipper rebounding edge. However, the perimeter was called very closely. A bad combination for Miami as the Clippers had 35 free throws to Miami's 11, and Miami only forced 13 turnovers. Miami shot only 2 free throws in the second half. Any game in which Miami is not allowed to be handsy on drivers is difficult for them - they can only get stops by being allowed to be physical before the ball gets to the lane - once it's there, it's too late for them.
3) The refereeing problems were compounded in the last seven seconds of the game on one the oddest sequences of events in recent memory. With 7.2 seconds to go and Miami down one, the Clippers were attempting to inbound the ball from their frontcourt. Nearing (or exceeding) 5 seconds and having a tough time getting it in , the inbounder tried to slither one back up the sideline towards the Clipper backcourt. Dwyane Wade shot the gap, intercepted the pass, and as he leaped up to avoid falling out of bounds, threw the ball up the court to Shawn Marion who went in alone for an uncontested score. Wade landed on official Courtney Kirkland who blew his whistle as they crashed in to the scorer's table. Marion stopped short of the rim. Kirkland called Wade out of bounds and signaled Clipper ball. This happened roughly in front of the Miami bench which exploded into Kirkland's face. He then seemed to admit that he hadn't seen the play (which was likely since it happened literally on top of him), and waved over the other two officials. They huddled for a long minute, then emerged and declared it Clipper ball. The Spo went bananas - Kirkland came over to him and explained that he hadn't seen the play, but that one of the other officials had called Wade out of bounds. At this, that official, Ron Elesiak, came over to the discussion and Wade started screaming at him that he was "way the hell over there" - across the court - when the play had occurred (which was true). Spoelstra demanded that they go to replay, which the officials started to do before getting intercepted by Dunleavy, who pointed out that was not a reviewable play by rule, which is also true. So the officials huddled again, and re-emerged declaring it now Heat ball, inexplicably. The Clipper bench rightfully went bananas. Though that was actually the correct call (Wade was clearly not out of bounds), it is impossible to imagine what was said in the second officials' huddle that wasn't said in the first. The only thing I can imagine is that they halved the difference - Miami got penalized by the inadvertent whistle because it took away an uncontested dunk which would have put them up 1 with a couple of seconds to go. I'm guessing in the first huddle, though, they made the argument that Wade really didn't have possession of the ball when the inadvertent whistle blew, so possession reverted to the Clippers. In the second huddle I suppose they reconsidered and decided that they didn't want to penalize the Heat twice by denying them the go ahead score, and giving the Clippers the ball. Seemed somewhat fair, but incredibly inefficient, and unsatisfactory to both teams.
4) You think it would be done there, but it wasn't. After a protracted timeout in which Dunleavy, rightfully, complained the entire time, Miami came out with 7.2 to go. The Clippers, much to Heat color commentator Tony Fiorentino's chagrin, had a foul to give. I knew I shouldn't have made fun of him last game. In any case, the ball is inbounded to Wade who immediately drives on Baron Davis, who gives the foul with a right forearm shiver to Wade's hip which sent him stumbling to the right wing. Everyone stopped, waiting for the whistle, which didn't come. As Wade stood in place with the ball, semi-stunned, Clippers guard Mike Taylor ran over and tackled him with 2.9 to go, which was called. The Heat took time out, and the bench went bananas again arguing that they should have about 6 seconds to go, not 2.9. Incredibly, the officials huddled to consider this notion, then ruled that, no, they hadn't called the Baron Davis foul (which was true), so 2.9 was correct. If the officials made any mistake, it was not realizing that the Clippers had a foul to give. They clearly were tying to let the players make the last play, which would be fine, except all the players knew that a foul was coming and stopped when it happened. Judging from their reaction, the officials couldn't have realized that there was one to give. While that is somewhat egregious on their part, they had just come off a traumatic 5 minute stretch of huddles, messing up an inbounds play to both teams' dissatisfaction, and were probably a little shell shocked. It happens. In any case, the Heat's 2.9 play went awry and Wade ended up with a bad look three that he missed. They got their shot, which is all you can ask for on the road, and missed it. Bizarre night.
5) Left over from last night's game against Phoenix. I meant to mention that now that Cleveland's Eric Snow has retired, the mantle of "Dirtiest Player in the League" has been assumed by Phoenix's Raja Bell. The guy only stays in the league by being feisty, but often takes it over the line. Somehow he had back-to-back plays in the Heat game which involved him turning his back to a Dwyane Wade drive and belting him to the floor with a shoulder, and punching Mario Chalmers, intentionally, in the face on a leap for a loose ball, without getting ejected, or even a flagrant foul, on either one. Some would argue for Bruce Bowen, but Bowen is more of an irritant than he is dirty. Still probably the only player who has ever made Vince Carter when he tripped him on purpose and Carter chased him all over the court trying to grab and throttle him. Snow's raison d'etre, of course, was the late slide in front of a perimeter dribbler in which he would slide in from the side, and then fall backwards in front of the guy, who would then trip down on top of him. It rarely was called a charge - usually a block on Snow - but it was used more as a intimidation tactic, planting the notion in the opponent's mind that at any moment his defender might suddenly insanely lunge in front of him and fall down, causing him to trip - and thus measure his steps carefully. It worked to greatest effect in the year the Sixers beat the Bucks in the Eastern Conference Finals, when, in Game 7, Snow pulled it on Ray Allen, injuring him on the fall, and knocking him out of the game early in the second half of a game the Sixers squeaked out. Also, worth a mention that there was always the threat that Snow might miss his line drive jumper off the bottom of the rim and injure a potential rebounder in the lane. We'll miss you, tough guy!
6) Rookie report: Mike Beasley snapped back from a week of lethargy to drop 17 in the second quarter on his way to a 24 point night. And Chalmers battled Baron Davis admirably. The last couple of nights The Spo has been changing his point guard rotation. Whereas Emcee and Quinn had been roughly splitting minutes, now Chalmers is playing 30+ (37 tonight), and Quinn has been ratcheted back to backup minutes 11 tonight). Chalmers, who is improving his jump shooting (4-9, 3-7 on 3's tonight), has earned the extra time. The Clippers Eric Gordon started and looked heavy, but springy, like a 2 guard version of Charles Barkley. Only made one jumper, but flipped it effortlessly from 3 point range. Was relatively ineffective (7 pts 2 assists and a board) in 30 minutes. Tough to tell whether he is a player or not based on tonight.
Next game, Monday in Golden State
1) Tough loss on the road to a struggling Clippers team. It was the first true close game Miami has played this year - they hadn't had a game decided by 4 points or less to date.
2) It was also the first game of the season in which refereeing was a huge factor. The Clippers, especially Al Thornton and Zach Randolph, were allowed to be very physical inside on the boards, which led to a +8 Clipper rebounding edge. However, the perimeter was called very closely. A bad combination for Miami as the Clippers had 35 free throws to Miami's 11, and Miami only forced 13 turnovers. Miami shot only 2 free throws in the second half. Any game in which Miami is not allowed to be handsy on drivers is difficult for them - they can only get stops by being allowed to be physical before the ball gets to the lane - once it's there, it's too late for them.
3) The refereeing problems were compounded in the last seven seconds of the game on one the oddest sequences of events in recent memory. With 7.2 seconds to go and Miami down one, the Clippers were attempting to inbound the ball from their frontcourt. Nearing (or exceeding) 5 seconds and having a tough time getting it in , the inbounder tried to slither one back up the sideline towards the Clipper backcourt. Dwyane Wade shot the gap, intercepted the pass, and as he leaped up to avoid falling out of bounds, threw the ball up the court to Shawn Marion who went in alone for an uncontested score. Wade landed on official Courtney Kirkland who blew his whistle as they crashed in to the scorer's table. Marion stopped short of the rim. Kirkland called Wade out of bounds and signaled Clipper ball. This happened roughly in front of the Miami bench which exploded into Kirkland's face. He then seemed to admit that he hadn't seen the play (which was likely since it happened literally on top of him), and waved over the other two officials. They huddled for a long minute, then emerged and declared it Clipper ball. The Spo went bananas - Kirkland came over to him and explained that he hadn't seen the play, but that one of the other officials had called Wade out of bounds. At this, that official, Ron Elesiak, came over to the discussion and Wade started screaming at him that he was "way the hell over there" - across the court - when the play had occurred (which was true). Spoelstra demanded that they go to replay, which the officials started to do before getting intercepted by Dunleavy, who pointed out that was not a reviewable play by rule, which is also true. So the officials huddled again, and re-emerged declaring it now Heat ball, inexplicably. The Clipper bench rightfully went bananas. Though that was actually the correct call (Wade was clearly not out of bounds), it is impossible to imagine what was said in the second officials' huddle that wasn't said in the first. The only thing I can imagine is that they halved the difference - Miami got penalized by the inadvertent whistle because it took away an uncontested dunk which would have put them up 1 with a couple of seconds to go. I'm guessing in the first huddle, though, they made the argument that Wade really didn't have possession of the ball when the inadvertent whistle blew, so possession reverted to the Clippers. In the second huddle I suppose they reconsidered and decided that they didn't want to penalize the Heat twice by denying them the go ahead score, and giving the Clippers the ball. Seemed somewhat fair, but incredibly inefficient, and unsatisfactory to both teams.
4) You think it would be done there, but it wasn't. After a protracted timeout in which Dunleavy, rightfully, complained the entire time, Miami came out with 7.2 to go. The Clippers, much to Heat color commentator Tony Fiorentino's chagrin, had a foul to give. I knew I shouldn't have made fun of him last game. In any case, the ball is inbounded to Wade who immediately drives on Baron Davis, who gives the foul with a right forearm shiver to Wade's hip which sent him stumbling to the right wing. Everyone stopped, waiting for the whistle, which didn't come. As Wade stood in place with the ball, semi-stunned, Clippers guard Mike Taylor ran over and tackled him with 2.9 to go, which was called. The Heat took time out, and the bench went bananas again arguing that they should have about 6 seconds to go, not 2.9. Incredibly, the officials huddled to consider this notion, then ruled that, no, they hadn't called the Baron Davis foul (which was true), so 2.9 was correct. If the officials made any mistake, it was not realizing that the Clippers had a foul to give. They clearly were tying to let the players make the last play, which would be fine, except all the players knew that a foul was coming and stopped when it happened. Judging from their reaction, the officials couldn't have realized that there was one to give. While that is somewhat egregious on their part, they had just come off a traumatic 5 minute stretch of huddles, messing up an inbounds play to both teams' dissatisfaction, and were probably a little shell shocked. It happens. In any case, the Heat's 2.9 play went awry and Wade ended up with a bad look three that he missed. They got their shot, which is all you can ask for on the road, and missed it. Bizarre night.
5) Left over from last night's game against Phoenix. I meant to mention that now that Cleveland's Eric Snow has retired, the mantle of "Dirtiest Player in the League" has been assumed by Phoenix's Raja Bell. The guy only stays in the league by being feisty, but often takes it over the line. Somehow he had back-to-back plays in the Heat game which involved him turning his back to a Dwyane Wade drive and belting him to the floor with a shoulder, and punching Mario Chalmers, intentionally, in the face on a leap for a loose ball, without getting ejected, or even a flagrant foul, on either one. Some would argue for Bruce Bowen, but Bowen is more of an irritant than he is dirty. Still probably the only player who has ever made Vince Carter when he tripped him on purpose and Carter chased him all over the court trying to grab and throttle him. Snow's raison d'etre, of course, was the late slide in front of a perimeter dribbler in which he would slide in from the side, and then fall backwards in front of the guy, who would then trip down on top of him. It rarely was called a charge - usually a block on Snow - but it was used more as a intimidation tactic, planting the notion in the opponent's mind that at any moment his defender might suddenly insanely lunge in front of him and fall down, causing him to trip - and thus measure his steps carefully. It worked to greatest effect in the year the Sixers beat the Bucks in the Eastern Conference Finals, when, in Game 7, Snow pulled it on Ray Allen, injuring him on the fall, and knocking him out of the game early in the second half of a game the Sixers squeaked out. Also, worth a mention that there was always the threat that Snow might miss his line drive jumper off the bottom of the rim and injure a potential rebounder in the lane. We'll miss you, tough guy!
6) Rookie report: Mike Beasley snapped back from a week of lethargy to drop 17 in the second quarter on his way to a 24 point night. And Chalmers battled Baron Davis admirably. The last couple of nights The Spo has been changing his point guard rotation. Whereas Emcee and Quinn had been roughly splitting minutes, now Chalmers is playing 30+ (37 tonight), and Quinn has been ratcheted back to backup minutes 11 tonight). Chalmers, who is improving his jump shooting (4-9, 3-7 on 3's tonight), has earned the extra time. The Clippers Eric Gordon started and looked heavy, but springy, like a 2 guard version of Charles Barkley. Only made one jumper, but flipped it effortlessly from 3 point range. Was relatively ineffective (7 pts 2 assists and a board) in 30 minutes. Tough to tell whether he is a player or not based on tonight.
Next game, Monday in Golden State
Friday, November 28, 2008
Heat 107 Suns 92
6 Thoughts
1) In fairness, no Nash. But, the Heat bounced back from their worst performance of the season to absolutely hammer this team. Without Nash this team isn't very good, but still, a young team on the road, after a blowout loss...good bounceback. The Suns have no backup point guard, which is troublesome against Miami because they can only compete by turning you over. Chalmers wreaked havoc with ball pressure, 5 steals, and numerous offense-disrupting deflections. I thought it was arguably his best game of a promising rookie season.
2) Wade, of course, was ridiculous. He essentially took the second half off against the Blazers and rested, but poured it all out tonight, with 43 on 24 shots, and 6 assists as well. There are maybe two or three guys: LeBron, Kobe, DWade who, when they get matched up against an old buddy, who burned his way out of town a year earlier, you can be pretty confident you are going to get a big night out of them. Wade dunked, made jumpers, did whatever he wanted, and carried a smirk on his face the whole time. No one can do that every night - but I am pretty sure he can do it any night they face Shaq. He went in to Shaq's new condo and embarrassed him, although he said all the right things before and afterwards.
3) Speaking of the Big Guy, it was a quiet night. He played 29 minutes and his line would indicate an efficient performance: 12 points on 6-8, with 9 rebounds, and only 1 turnover. But it was hardly that. First of all, the Suns wasted a ton of possessions early trying to figure out how to get it in low. Miami was fronting and backing Shaq, and he doesn't move side-to-side, so there were several turnovers - not on Shaq - trying to jam it in there. Miami used that to get up 15 early, and stayed up all night. Shaq couldn't get a lot of touches - against Joel Anthony and Udonis Haslem, hardly the biggest or toughest post defenders in the league. Shaq's baskets mostly came off penetrations when guys came off him and he scored easy hoops. As evidence, he didn't shoot a single free throw, and didn't get force Miami to foul him, sending them in to the penalty early, which was always one of the huge benefits of having real Shaq. Phoenix shot 11 free throws all night, which is pitiful against a tiny Miami team. Defensively -my goodness. Phoenix doesn't even pretend to guard the pick and roll, both defenders just sag and allow and the open 15 footer, generally. Shaq came out with about 7 minutes to go and they didn't bring him back because they can't stops with him on the court. Why Terry Porter thinks the way to play is to force the ball in to Shaq, I have no idea. ESPN.com had an article today with Antoine Stoudamire complaining about his role in the offense. Are there any other out-of-shape, overweight centers they can move New 'Toine for? Eddy Curry? I think this franchise is going the wrong, wrong way.
4) The Spo switched up tonight and started Joel Anthony, benching Beasley. Going for a little more size, and they jumped out early, so it turned out to be a great move. Beasley looked lost out there when he did get in there. He is incredibly skilled - tonight it seemed he didn't come to play hard. I mean, if you are a rookie, you should at least play hard. He looks like he is thinking out there a little, instead of just playing.
5) Jamal Magloire is active. Jamal Magloire is active. Two rebounds in 2 minutes, stuffed himself on the bottom the rim, got it back, got fouled, made a free throw, then lasered the second one off the backboard. Promising beginning, sort of. One good thing for Jamal - making his debut against Shaq made him appear relatively svelte. He should pretend he is hurt again until they play Eddy Curry.
6) I want no part of Marbury. Still, though The Captain will accuse me of being pro-labor, I think the Knicks are not acting in good faith. By all accounts, by their account, Marbury showed up in shape, ready to play, and has been on good behavior. Then, after publicly declaring that he had no plans to play him, Mike D'Antoni has asked him on a couple of occasion if he wanted to play; Marbury has opted not to. This time, seemingly because the Knicks were down to only two guards because of injuries and the LeBron oh-'10 Swap Meet they are conducting they were aggravated and suspended him. If they ask him to play, why can't he say "no?" All NBA parties on ESPN's coverage tonight seemed to agree that the financial penalty the Knicks have imposed will never stand up. Not that it matters...The Knicks certainly have the right to yank the guy around, fine. He is a pain in the butt, and I am sure they resent that, and his relatively poor play for them the last couple of years (though Plumber still loves him). But to make the guy's life miserable, for no reason, seems ridiculous. As ridiculous as him. If that is the standard they want to meet, I would challenge them to set the bar a little higher. The only possible defense is that they need his contract to make a deal come deadline time. But that seems like the most remote of possibilities, since they are obviously unwilling to take on any salary in pursuit of LeBron or Wade or Bosh.
If he is bought out, I am not sure whether the Heat would pursue him. Before the season started, I am pretty sure that he was option # 1 at point guard - I think they expected him to be bought out, and I am sure they expected to sign him. But now that Chalmers has shown the potential to be a starting guard in the league, I think it is better to let him play. The reality is that it is unlikely Miami will make the playoffs this year and, in fact, they are best served by finishing in the bottom 10, retaining their own draft pick to add an asset, along with an asset from Marion's expiring deal, and go from there. Marbury probably improves them immediately, just by his ability to make plays off the dribble. But I don't think he would good for the long-term prospects of the franchise.
1) In fairness, no Nash. But, the Heat bounced back from their worst performance of the season to absolutely hammer this team. Without Nash this team isn't very good, but still, a young team on the road, after a blowout loss...good bounceback. The Suns have no backup point guard, which is troublesome against Miami because they can only compete by turning you over. Chalmers wreaked havoc with ball pressure, 5 steals, and numerous offense-disrupting deflections. I thought it was arguably his best game of a promising rookie season.
2) Wade, of course, was ridiculous. He essentially took the second half off against the Blazers and rested, but poured it all out tonight, with 43 on 24 shots, and 6 assists as well. There are maybe two or three guys: LeBron, Kobe, DWade who, when they get matched up against an old buddy, who burned his way out of town a year earlier, you can be pretty confident you are going to get a big night out of them. Wade dunked, made jumpers, did whatever he wanted, and carried a smirk on his face the whole time. No one can do that every night - but I am pretty sure he can do it any night they face Shaq. He went in to Shaq's new condo and embarrassed him, although he said all the right things before and afterwards.
3) Speaking of the Big Guy, it was a quiet night. He played 29 minutes and his line would indicate an efficient performance: 12 points on 6-8, with 9 rebounds, and only 1 turnover. But it was hardly that. First of all, the Suns wasted a ton of possessions early trying to figure out how to get it in low. Miami was fronting and backing Shaq, and he doesn't move side-to-side, so there were several turnovers - not on Shaq - trying to jam it in there. Miami used that to get up 15 early, and stayed up all night. Shaq couldn't get a lot of touches - against Joel Anthony and Udonis Haslem, hardly the biggest or toughest post defenders in the league. Shaq's baskets mostly came off penetrations when guys came off him and he scored easy hoops. As evidence, he didn't shoot a single free throw, and didn't get force Miami to foul him, sending them in to the penalty early, which was always one of the huge benefits of having real Shaq. Phoenix shot 11 free throws all night, which is pitiful against a tiny Miami team. Defensively -my goodness. Phoenix doesn't even pretend to guard the pick and roll, both defenders just sag and allow and the open 15 footer, generally. Shaq came out with about 7 minutes to go and they didn't bring him back because they can't stops with him on the court. Why Terry Porter thinks the way to play is to force the ball in to Shaq, I have no idea. ESPN.com had an article today with Antoine Stoudamire complaining about his role in the offense. Are there any other out-of-shape, overweight centers they can move New 'Toine for? Eddy Curry? I think this franchise is going the wrong, wrong way.
4) The Spo switched up tonight and started Joel Anthony, benching Beasley. Going for a little more size, and they jumped out early, so it turned out to be a great move. Beasley looked lost out there when he did get in there. He is incredibly skilled - tonight it seemed he didn't come to play hard. I mean, if you are a rookie, you should at least play hard. He looks like he is thinking out there a little, instead of just playing.
5) Jamal Magloire is active. Jamal Magloire is active. Two rebounds in 2 minutes, stuffed himself on the bottom the rim, got it back, got fouled, made a free throw, then lasered the second one off the backboard. Promising beginning, sort of. One good thing for Jamal - making his debut against Shaq made him appear relatively svelte. He should pretend he is hurt again until they play Eddy Curry.
6) I want no part of Marbury. Still, though The Captain will accuse me of being pro-labor, I think the Knicks are not acting in good faith. By all accounts, by their account, Marbury showed up in shape, ready to play, and has been on good behavior. Then, after publicly declaring that he had no plans to play him, Mike D'Antoni has asked him on a couple of occasion if he wanted to play; Marbury has opted not to. This time, seemingly because the Knicks were down to only two guards because of injuries and the LeBron oh-'10 Swap Meet they are conducting they were aggravated and suspended him. If they ask him to play, why can't he say "no?" All NBA parties on ESPN's coverage tonight seemed to agree that the financial penalty the Knicks have imposed will never stand up. Not that it matters...The Knicks certainly have the right to yank the guy around, fine. He is a pain in the butt, and I am sure they resent that, and his relatively poor play for them the last couple of years (though Plumber still loves him). But to make the guy's life miserable, for no reason, seems ridiculous. As ridiculous as him. If that is the standard they want to meet, I would challenge them to set the bar a little higher. The only possible defense is that they need his contract to make a deal come deadline time. But that seems like the most remote of possibilities, since they are obviously unwilling to take on any salary in pursuit of LeBron or Wade or Bosh.
If he is bought out, I am not sure whether the Heat would pursue him. Before the season started, I am pretty sure that he was option # 1 at point guard - I think they expected him to be bought out, and I am sure they expected to sign him. But now that Chalmers has shown the potential to be a starting guard in the league, I think it is better to let him play. The reality is that it is unlikely Miami will make the playoffs this year and, in fact, they are best served by finishing in the bottom 10, retaining their own draft pick to add an asset, along with an asset from Marion's expiring deal, and go from there. Marbury probably improves them immediately, just by his ability to make plays off the dribble. But I don't think he would good for the long-term prospects of the franchise.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Blazers 106 Miami 68
6 Thoughts
1) Anytime you are out rebounded 55-28, you probably aren't going to do real well. A distinct lack of energy as the Blazers put on a dunk fest. Led to Marcus Banks, Mark Blount, and Shaun Livingston sightings. Marcus Banks, probably, has deserved more of an opportunity. Started the season as the backup point guard and played well. Strained a hamstring and Chris Quinn performed admirably in his absence. When Banks got healthy, Quinn kept the job. Banks is a random offensive player, but a talented one who can create his own shot, and is quick and strong defensively. Perhaps he warrants some minutes in smaller lineups instead of Daequan Cook, who is struggling tremendously with his shooting right now. Towards the end of the game, eternally optimistic play-by-play announcer Eric Reid said that even in a blowout you have to look for something positive and tonight the silver lining was that Jamal Magloire is ever closer to coming back and providing the Heat some help inside. Oh, I'm sorry - I thought you said something positive. My bad.
2) Eric Reid also revealed that on the way in to the building he mistook Blazer big man Channing Frye for different Blazer big man LaMarcus Aldridge from Texas, and asked him if he had watched the University of Texas game on tv the night before. "No, why would I?" asked Frye, who attended Arizona. In Eric defense, both guys are black.
3) Nice segment on Miami Senior High School teammates Udonis Haslem and Steve Blake. They won a state championship together. Udonis said that Blake is the smartest player he has ever played with at any level. Nice sentiment, but Udonis must be forgetting the 82 cerebral games he enjoyed last year with one Mr. Ricky Davis.
4) Heat color commentator Tony Fiorentino was "shocked" that former Blazer center Kevin Duckworth died earlier this year at age 44. Really, is shocked the right word? A guy who weighed upwards of 370 pounds and suffered with depression problems while he was playing? You're shocked that he passed away early? Disappointed, sure, upset, definitely, but shocked, no. Tony also revealed that he did a lot of Christmas shopping today at the Nike outlet store in Beaverton, Oregon. This is a departure for Tony, who most years claims that he does all his Christmas shopping at the Heat team store in Bayside. There is a gaggle of young Fiorentino nephews somewhere rocking an entire closet full of sweatpants and wrist bands. Finally, with 6 seconds to go in the third quarter, down 25, Yakouhba Diawara gave a foul on a dribbler 30 feet from the basket. "Great foul - the Heat had one to give," crowed Tony, whose entire coaching philosophy seems to be predicted on committing three fouls or fewer in the first 10 minutes of a quarter just to make sure that you have one to give in the final two minutes. When is a good time to use it? As soon as possible under two minutes according to Tony, who, when a team does have one to give inside dos minutos, points this out every possession until they use it, or the quarter ends. Never once have I hear him make the connection that at a certain point, giving a foul hurts you - for instance, under 20 seconds or so to go in a quarter with a low shot clock, when giving a foul allows the other team to get a new shot clock, allowing them, and not you, the last shot in the quarter.
5) Oden had 10 and 10. He is already a very good defensive presence. Long arms, good timing, plays hard. The Blazers are a legitimate team. No one mentions them as a contender in the West, but I would not be shocked if they emerged as the Lakers' main challenger. Incredible depth, size, good athleticism - really, really a lot of good ballplayers. And, as much as I dislike him personally, a definitive go-to crunch time guy in Brandon Roy. I think this is a team that could be in the Western Conference Finals. I think I considered them like a 45 win team coming in to the season, but I think their ceiling is higher now.
6) Finally, a tip of the cap to Dos Minutos loyalist Plumber. Caught a bit of the Maui final between Carolina and Notre Dame in the Lahaina Civic Center, aka, "The House That Plumber Built." Fittingly, Irish guard Kyle McAlarney poured in 39 in a tribute to the Plumber that included the second longest jump shot as part of a normal offensive set that I have ever seen when he caught a swing pass up top from about 33 feet and drilled it. Only Rutgers guard Quincy Douby's epic heave from about 38 feet three years ago against UConn, where he sighted an entire defense set down in the lane against him, figured "why bother," picked up his dribble and let fly from closer to halfcourt than the three point line, was longer. Douby's didn't go in, by the way, but it was an impressive show of moxie nonetheless. Only the Plumber has lit that building on fire in the way that McAlarney did tonight, although I am quite sure that McAlarney has never had to leave a game early to drive his annoying girlfriend to the airport because she invited herself out to visit him and his best friend in Hawaii, and never left until, in a fit of pique because the boys were enjoying their youth, she demanded that he drive her to the airport right then so that she could catch the next flight back to the main land. Of course, it probably has happened several times to Harangody, because that's how the big fella rolls..
1) Anytime you are out rebounded 55-28, you probably aren't going to do real well. A distinct lack of energy as the Blazers put on a dunk fest. Led to Marcus Banks, Mark Blount, and Shaun Livingston sightings. Marcus Banks, probably, has deserved more of an opportunity. Started the season as the backup point guard and played well. Strained a hamstring and Chris Quinn performed admirably in his absence. When Banks got healthy, Quinn kept the job. Banks is a random offensive player, but a talented one who can create his own shot, and is quick and strong defensively. Perhaps he warrants some minutes in smaller lineups instead of Daequan Cook, who is struggling tremendously with his shooting right now. Towards the end of the game, eternally optimistic play-by-play announcer Eric Reid said that even in a blowout you have to look for something positive and tonight the silver lining was that Jamal Magloire is ever closer to coming back and providing the Heat some help inside. Oh, I'm sorry - I thought you said something positive. My bad.
2) Eric Reid also revealed that on the way in to the building he mistook Blazer big man Channing Frye for different Blazer big man LaMarcus Aldridge from Texas, and asked him if he had watched the University of Texas game on tv the night before. "No, why would I?" asked Frye, who attended Arizona. In Eric defense, both guys are black.
3) Nice segment on Miami Senior High School teammates Udonis Haslem and Steve Blake. They won a state championship together. Udonis said that Blake is the smartest player he has ever played with at any level. Nice sentiment, but Udonis must be forgetting the 82 cerebral games he enjoyed last year with one Mr. Ricky Davis.
4) Heat color commentator Tony Fiorentino was "shocked" that former Blazer center Kevin Duckworth died earlier this year at age 44. Really, is shocked the right word? A guy who weighed upwards of 370 pounds and suffered with depression problems while he was playing? You're shocked that he passed away early? Disappointed, sure, upset, definitely, but shocked, no. Tony also revealed that he did a lot of Christmas shopping today at the Nike outlet store in Beaverton, Oregon. This is a departure for Tony, who most years claims that he does all his Christmas shopping at the Heat team store in Bayside. There is a gaggle of young Fiorentino nephews somewhere rocking an entire closet full of sweatpants and wrist bands. Finally, with 6 seconds to go in the third quarter, down 25, Yakouhba Diawara gave a foul on a dribbler 30 feet from the basket. "Great foul - the Heat had one to give," crowed Tony, whose entire coaching philosophy seems to be predicted on committing three fouls or fewer in the first 10 minutes of a quarter just to make sure that you have one to give in the final two minutes. When is a good time to use it? As soon as possible under two minutes according to Tony, who, when a team does have one to give inside dos minutos, points this out every possession until they use it, or the quarter ends. Never once have I hear him make the connection that at a certain point, giving a foul hurts you - for instance, under 20 seconds or so to go in a quarter with a low shot clock, when giving a foul allows the other team to get a new shot clock, allowing them, and not you, the last shot in the quarter.
5) Oden had 10 and 10. He is already a very good defensive presence. Long arms, good timing, plays hard. The Blazers are a legitimate team. No one mentions them as a contender in the West, but I would not be shocked if they emerged as the Lakers' main challenger. Incredible depth, size, good athleticism - really, really a lot of good ballplayers. And, as much as I dislike him personally, a definitive go-to crunch time guy in Brandon Roy. I think this is a team that could be in the Western Conference Finals. I think I considered them like a 45 win team coming in to the season, but I think their ceiling is higher now.
6) Finally, a tip of the cap to Dos Minutos loyalist Plumber. Caught a bit of the Maui final between Carolina and Notre Dame in the Lahaina Civic Center, aka, "The House That Plumber Built." Fittingly, Irish guard Kyle McAlarney poured in 39 in a tribute to the Plumber that included the second longest jump shot as part of a normal offensive set that I have ever seen when he caught a swing pass up top from about 33 feet and drilled it. Only Rutgers guard Quincy Douby's epic heave from about 38 feet three years ago against UConn, where he sighted an entire defense set down in the lane against him, figured "why bother," picked up his dribble and let fly from closer to halfcourt than the three point line, was longer. Douby's didn't go in, by the way, but it was an impressive show of moxie nonetheless. Only the Plumber has lit that building on fire in the way that McAlarney did tonight, although I am quite sure that McAlarney has never had to leave a game early to drive his annoying girlfriend to the airport because she invited herself out to visit him and his best friend in Hawaii, and never left until, in a fit of pique because the boys were enjoying their youth, she demanded that he drive her to the airport right then so that she could catch the next flight back to the main land. Of course, it probably has happened several times to Harangody, because that's how the big fella rolls..
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Thanksgiving Thoughts from the Captain!
I admire the Heat for the effort last night. Though they were certainly outmanned against a bigger and more talented team they never let up and made the Rockets work for the win. It's important for a team to send a message that "you might win this game but you're not going to beat us".
Speaking of worst rock songs, I heard "Love Hurts" by Nazareth on the radio. The song makes me physically ill yet I can't turn it off. Maybe I should seek professional help.
I would like nothing better than to see Keith Olbermann soundly thrashed by the before mentioned turkey harvester. I haven't witnessed the use of this equipment but I assure you that I will enjoy my 18lb young bird this year as much as previous years. The reality is that farming and ranching isn't always pretty but it is necessary. My grandmother, Nana, Sgroi, God rest her sweet soul, used to grab a chicken by the neck and give it a good snap. Sometimes a second snap was necessary but boy did she make great chicken caccitori. I'll bet Governor Palin and family will have a fine meal this Thanksgiving as well. For all the criticism of Palin, she seems to know who she is and isn't ashamed of it. She may not be what the media considers a 21st century woman but in previous centuries women were expected to be tough. I would take her against Olbermann in a wrestling match any day although I don't think he likes to get that close to women.
Happy Thanksgiving to all and remember how lucky we are to be Americans.
The Captain
Speaking of worst rock songs, I heard "Love Hurts" by Nazareth on the radio. The song makes me physically ill yet I can't turn it off. Maybe I should seek professional help.
I would like nothing better than to see Keith Olbermann soundly thrashed by the before mentioned turkey harvester. I haven't witnessed the use of this equipment but I assure you that I will enjoy my 18lb young bird this year as much as previous years. The reality is that farming and ranching isn't always pretty but it is necessary. My grandmother, Nana, Sgroi, God rest her sweet soul, used to grab a chicken by the neck and give it a good snap. Sometimes a second snap was necessary but boy did she make great chicken caccitori. I'll bet Governor Palin and family will have a fine meal this Thanksgiving as well. For all the criticism of Palin, she seems to know who she is and isn't ashamed of it. She may not be what the media considers a 21st century woman but in previous centuries women were expected to be tough. I would take her against Olbermann in a wrestling match any day although I don't think he likes to get that close to women.
Happy Thanksgiving to all and remember how lucky we are to be Americans.
The Captain
Monday, November 24, 2008
Rockets 107 Heat 98
6 Thoughts
1) Ground out, just ground the heck out by a big, tough, professional basketball team. The Heat tried to scrap but got hammered 51-35 on the boards, and it was too much.
2) Too. Much. Yao. It wasn't just the 28 and 12, it was also outstanding passing. 4 assists, but even more plays where he kicked the ball out, an extra pass was made against the rotation and led to an open shot. It would have been 38 and 12 if the Big Chinaman had been able to make a layup when absorbing anything greater than a brush on the arm - don't be afraid to dunk the ball, Old Yella. Former Heat great Wang Zhi Zhi, Yao, and Yi may be a small sample size for a country with approximately a billion people in it, but these Chinese can't finish plays around the rim. Until they do, I'm not taking this country seriously - I honestly don't think we need anything more than Hillary Clinton to handle them.
3) Finally Wade was human. Bad night shooting, didn't make a lot of plays. Looked worn out. It happens.
4) Best shooting game for Emcee Chalmers, finishing with 5 threes and 23 points. Of course, the problem is that he is always open because nobody is playing him on the perimeter, because they are loading up in the lane against Wade. If he continues to progress as a shooter, it will be a big help to the team. He has a nice stroke - it is good to see it go in for a game.
5) Out west for the holidays, 5 games in the next 10 days. At 7-7, these are the tough trips on which a couple of wins need to be ground out, against bigger, and often better, opponents. Lose 4 out 5 (or worse) on this type of trip, and it is difficult to make the ground back up. It is a tall order for a team starting two rookies. It is worth mentioning the last team to start two rookie in its first 14 games? The 2000 Nets (Kenyon Martin and Stephen Jackson). Also - not only have the Heat done it this year, so have the Grizzlies (Marc Gasol and OJ Mayo).
6) Heard the Dire Straits song "Walk of Life" in the grocery store this evening. The Captain and I were talking about the Steve Miller song "Abracadabra" today and wondering if it was the worst rock song made in the 80s - but I think we just answered our own question. "Walk of Life" is rock music for people who hate rock music.
Political Commentary
I just saw the entire video where Sarah Palin was killing turkeys. Forget Sarah Palin - Jesus, is that how we kill turkeys? By shoving them in to a motorized funnel-blender? Really? I am supposed to eat that? Did you see the guy helping her, with a a grungy beard, blood all over him, and a mullet? And the way he was looking hungrily at the governor while blood was spraying all over his pants? I think we all just entered that guy's greatest fantasy for a couple of interminable minutes. I feel like I have learned more about Alaska these past few months than I ever wanted to know. Count me out for the 25th anniversary cruise to see the glaciers. And I think I am sticking to the mashed potatoes and pies this year at Thanksgiving.
1) Ground out, just ground the heck out by a big, tough, professional basketball team. The Heat tried to scrap but got hammered 51-35 on the boards, and it was too much.
2) Too. Much. Yao. It wasn't just the 28 and 12, it was also outstanding passing. 4 assists, but even more plays where he kicked the ball out, an extra pass was made against the rotation and led to an open shot. It would have been 38 and 12 if the Big Chinaman had been able to make a layup when absorbing anything greater than a brush on the arm - don't be afraid to dunk the ball, Old Yella. Former Heat great Wang Zhi Zhi, Yao, and Yi may be a small sample size for a country with approximately a billion people in it, but these Chinese can't finish plays around the rim. Until they do, I'm not taking this country seriously - I honestly don't think we need anything more than Hillary Clinton to handle them.
3) Finally Wade was human. Bad night shooting, didn't make a lot of plays. Looked worn out. It happens.
4) Best shooting game for Emcee Chalmers, finishing with 5 threes and 23 points. Of course, the problem is that he is always open because nobody is playing him on the perimeter, because they are loading up in the lane against Wade. If he continues to progress as a shooter, it will be a big help to the team. He has a nice stroke - it is good to see it go in for a game.
5) Out west for the holidays, 5 games in the next 10 days. At 7-7, these are the tough trips on which a couple of wins need to be ground out, against bigger, and often better, opponents. Lose 4 out 5 (or worse) on this type of trip, and it is difficult to make the ground back up. It is a tall order for a team starting two rookies. It is worth mentioning the last team to start two rookie in its first 14 games? The 2000 Nets (Kenyon Martin and Stephen Jackson). Also - not only have the Heat done it this year, so have the Grizzlies (Marc Gasol and OJ Mayo).
6) Heard the Dire Straits song "Walk of Life" in the grocery store this evening. The Captain and I were talking about the Steve Miller song "Abracadabra" today and wondering if it was the worst rock song made in the 80s - but I think we just answered our own question. "Walk of Life" is rock music for people who hate rock music.
Political Commentary
I just saw the entire video where Sarah Palin was killing turkeys. Forget Sarah Palin - Jesus, is that how we kill turkeys? By shoving them in to a motorized funnel-blender? Really? I am supposed to eat that? Did you see the guy helping her, with a a grungy beard, blood all over him, and a mullet? And the way he was looking hungrily at the governor while blood was spraying all over his pants? I think we all just entered that guy's greatest fantasy for a couple of interminable minutes. I feel like I have learned more about Alaska these past few months than I ever wanted to know. Count me out for the 25th anniversary cruise to see the glaciers. And I think I am sticking to the mashed potatoes and pies this year at Thanksgiving.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Heat 109 Pacers 100
Due to the magic of Tivo, and a late Broken Social Scene concert start time of 10:30, the streak is intact: 13-13 in games watched this year. Seemed very possible earlier this week that the BSS show would break up the perfect game, but no, the dream of the 82 game perfect season is still alive. The '96-'97 record of 77 games, certainly, is in serious jeopardy.
6 Thoughts
1) Broken Social Scene was fantastic. Most of the staff at Dos Minutos, and Dos Minutos reader/playboy Thor, are far too old to be at a show that starts at 10:30 in a bizarre club in Pompano Beach. Thor and I agreed tonight, though, we will still be doing it when we are 70, if we live that long. BSS is the crap - a big motley crew of musicians changing instruments and taking turns singing lead, so every song is almost like a different band. If you like music at all, their album You Forgot it in People should be required listening.
2) Also, good win for the Heat tonight. It was a `peer' win. Indiana is a middling team in the East - that is Miami's peer group. You aren't going in to LA and beating the Lakers if you are one of these two teams, so winning games like tonight is important to be competitive. Both teams played really well, high level basketball. Wade is playing at a level that he has only reached during the '06 Finals. It is repetitive to keep saying it, but the lines are consistently ridiculous. Tonight he had 38 with 8 assists - and he missed 5 or 6 six free throws.
3) Club Cinema in Pompano Beach - odd, but great, place. Seemingly only two shows happening there this year: tonight's BSS, and Styx: http://www.clubcinemaflorida.com/. Worth mentioning that it appears David Spade has now joined Styx - here's hoping he replaces Dennis DeYoung's vocals on Mr. Roboto. It is a big, former (we figured from the name) movie theater, with cathedral ceilings, and a two tiered viewing area - probably a good 1500 people in there? Thor? Too many? Thor especially loved the two lonely random banner advertisements hanging from the rafters: one for a Brazillian clothes shop in Broward, and Coli Marble.
4) Big night for Mike Beasley - struggled tremendously early. Again got in foul trouble which limited his first half minutes, and the Heat was down 15 much of the first half. But on this night, in this game, at this defining moment, he sucked it up in the third quarter and went off for 10 quick third quarter points, leading the Heat charge back. And he played the crunch time minutes, and contributed two more big hoops. Good job by him, and good job by Spo for going right back to him after two games where he struggled. This Spo is okay - players seem to like and respect him - they definitely play hard, and are organized. Rotation is definitive. Good young coach. The Heat are lucky to have him. He is lucky to have Dwyane Wade.
5) Had three beers at the concert (Heineken). This crappy blog post should be proof of that. That must push my total to about 20 for the year - certainly the most of this century. I think I actually had 5 this week, as I had, I think, two with Dos Minutos reader Scott from Scotland on Monday. I really feel good about this - I have an absolute passion for drinking an average of a couple of beers per month now. Best moment of the show, I thought: a long torch song where the expressionless dude in the plaid shirt from Montreal (BSS is Canadian) traded verses with the funky girl singer, and then that led right in to the "Park that car/ drop that phone/ sleep on the floor/ dream about me" song. They killed it. I am sure only Dos Minutos reader Thor knows what I am talking about. Thor almost always gets a concert t-shirt; in a rare departure - not tonight. The economy affects us all, my friends. We agreed that we will be downloading music 10 years from now and ruining bands for Owen, Parker, Finn, and Annika, since none of them are going to want to listen to a band their dad likes.
6) Emcee Chalmers missed a full-on tomahawk dunk in traffic. Took off a step too soon, and threw it off the back iron when he was reaching short. Earlier today, three separate times, the Dos Minutos Next Generation point guard, Owen, stole balls at midcourt, steamed in alone and...laid the ball in. That's how we teach them at Dos Minutos - just lay it in, it's still dos points.
6 Thoughts
1) Broken Social Scene was fantastic. Most of the staff at Dos Minutos, and Dos Minutos reader/playboy Thor, are far too old to be at a show that starts at 10:30 in a bizarre club in Pompano Beach. Thor and I agreed tonight, though, we will still be doing it when we are 70, if we live that long. BSS is the crap - a big motley crew of musicians changing instruments and taking turns singing lead, so every song is almost like a different band. If you like music at all, their album You Forgot it in People should be required listening.
2) Also, good win for the Heat tonight. It was a `peer' win. Indiana is a middling team in the East - that is Miami's peer group. You aren't going in to LA and beating the Lakers if you are one of these two teams, so winning games like tonight is important to be competitive. Both teams played really well, high level basketball. Wade is playing at a level that he has only reached during the '06 Finals. It is repetitive to keep saying it, but the lines are consistently ridiculous. Tonight he had 38 with 8 assists - and he missed 5 or 6 six free throws.
3) Club Cinema in Pompano Beach - odd, but great, place. Seemingly only two shows happening there this year: tonight's BSS, and Styx: http://www.clubcinemaflorida.com/. Worth mentioning that it appears David Spade has now joined Styx - here's hoping he replaces Dennis DeYoung's vocals on Mr. Roboto. It is a big, former (we figured from the name) movie theater, with cathedral ceilings, and a two tiered viewing area - probably a good 1500 people in there? Thor? Too many? Thor especially loved the two lonely random banner advertisements hanging from the rafters: one for a Brazillian clothes shop in Broward, and Coli Marble.
4) Big night for Mike Beasley - struggled tremendously early. Again got in foul trouble which limited his first half minutes, and the Heat was down 15 much of the first half. But on this night, in this game, at this defining moment, he sucked it up in the third quarter and went off for 10 quick third quarter points, leading the Heat charge back. And he played the crunch time minutes, and contributed two more big hoops. Good job by him, and good job by Spo for going right back to him after two games where he struggled. This Spo is okay - players seem to like and respect him - they definitely play hard, and are organized. Rotation is definitive. Good young coach. The Heat are lucky to have him. He is lucky to have Dwyane Wade.
5) Had three beers at the concert (Heineken). This crappy blog post should be proof of that. That must push my total to about 20 for the year - certainly the most of this century. I think I actually had 5 this week, as I had, I think, two with Dos Minutos reader Scott from Scotland on Monday. I really feel good about this - I have an absolute passion for drinking an average of a couple of beers per month now. Best moment of the show, I thought: a long torch song where the expressionless dude in the plaid shirt from Montreal (BSS is Canadian) traded verses with the funky girl singer, and then that led right in to the "Park that car/ drop that phone/ sleep on the floor/ dream about me" song. They killed it. I am sure only Dos Minutos reader Thor knows what I am talking about. Thor almost always gets a concert t-shirt; in a rare departure - not tonight. The economy affects us all, my friends. We agreed that we will be downloading music 10 years from now and ruining bands for Owen, Parker, Finn, and Annika, since none of them are going to want to listen to a band their dad likes.
6) Emcee Chalmers missed a full-on tomahawk dunk in traffic. Took off a step too soon, and threw it off the back iron when he was reaching short. Earlier today, three separate times, the Dos Minutos Next Generation point guard, Owen, stole balls at midcourt, steamed in alone and...laid the ball in. That's how we teach them at Dos Minutos - just lay it in, it's still dos points.
Knicks Trade
From Dos Minutos preseason predictions:
New York Knicks - Will try to get Zach Randolph off early in the season, move him to a sucker
Yesterday's trade:
The second deal of the day announced by the Knicks packages Zach Randolph and Mardy Collins to the Clippers for veterans Tim Thomas and Cuttino Mobley.
So at least Dos Minutos got one thing right this season.
I hate the conspiracy theories. But, it stands to reason that the Knicks are going to end up with someone in 2010. I don't know if it will be LeBron, Wade, Bosh, or some combination of other guys, but it will be someone. Too much cap room, too big a city, too appealing a style with the new coach. Plus a good GM.
New York Knicks - Will try to get Zach Randolph off early in the season, move him to a sucker
Yesterday's trade:
The second deal of the day announced by the Knicks packages Zach Randolph and Mardy Collins to the Clippers for veterans Tim Thomas and Cuttino Mobley.
So at least Dos Minutos got one thing right this season.
I hate the conspiracy theories. But, it stands to reason that the Knicks are going to end up with someone in 2010. I don't know if it will be LeBron, Wade, Bosh, or some combination of other guys, but it will be someone. Too much cap room, too big a city, too appealing a style with the new coach. Plus a good GM.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Huckabee news
Saw a great interview with my new favorite tv host, Mike Huckabee, last night. Amongst other things, he claims that he can't run for president in o-12 because:
1) If he starts running now, by the time it gets to primary season, others will have overtaken him. (The interviewer pointed out that if he really is running, but just saying that he isn't to keep the frontrunner jinx off of him, isn't that kind of silly, and does he really think that "avoiding the jinx" will work? Huck didn't know what she meant.)
2) He is very busy with his tv show. That is a good point, as reviewed here: http://miamiheatdosminutos.blogspot.com/2008/11/heat-nets-preview.html
I don't care if he is running against Dwyane Wade in 0-12, I am voting for Huck. This guy has an absolute passion for playing the bass on Billy Joel songs, denying women reproductive rights, and entertaining America with his own tv show.
He may not want to be the frontrunner, but at this point, how can he avoid it?
1) If he starts running now, by the time it gets to primary season, others will have overtaken him. (The interviewer pointed out that if he really is running, but just saying that he isn't to keep the frontrunner jinx off of him, isn't that kind of silly, and does he really think that "avoiding the jinx" will work? Huck didn't know what she meant.)
2) He is very busy with his tv show. That is a good point, as reviewed here: http://miamiheatdosminutos.blogspot.com/2008/11/heat-nets-preview.html
I don't care if he is running against Dwyane Wade in 0-12, I am voting for Huck. This guy has an absolute passion for playing the bass on Billy Joel songs, denying women reproductive rights, and entertaining America with his own tv show.
He may not want to be the frontrunner, but at this point, how can he avoid it?
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Raptors 101 Heat 95
6 Thoughts
1) Tough loss. Got down 17 late in the third quarter, but rode Wade's ridiculous finish (40 points, 11 assists, 5 blocks) back to a lead midway through the 4th, only to get beat by two late, bad-look Anthony Parker jump shots. Anthony Parker? Tough, tough loss.
2) A leading statistical indicator of really bad teams is that they get blown out at home. Decent teams very rarely get blown out at home. Can't get blown out at home - have to battle. Second night of a back-to-back for both teams and Miami definitely looked fresher down the stretch, battling their way back in a game that looked lost.
3) Michael Beasley in his first slump. Couldn't stay on the court with foul trouble and played only 12 minutes as Coach Spo played Quinn, Wade, Cook, Marion, and Anthony almost the entire 4th quarter, only pulling Anthony for Haslem late. Always tough to know when a group that has battled so hard and so well is gassed and needs help. Spoelstra gave this group a chance to finish it on their own, and they came up just a bit short.
4) Jermaine O'Neal with 35 rebounds in two games against Miami in the past four nights.
5) We at Dos Minutos make a good deal of fun of Shawn Marion, so tonight he gets his due. Scored 20 on 10-17, and added 14 rebounds. Even better, he held Chris Bosh to a 7-17, and only 1 free throw, primarily without help. Great night.
6) Rookie referee Eric Dalen spent his entire night asking for help, arms outstretched at his side. At one point Raptor guard Will Solomon grabbed a rebound while flying through the air, landed three feet over the baseline, and dropped the ball on the floor, knowing he was way, way out of bounds. Dalen, standing approximately 8 feet away from him, with no bodies in between, immediately threw his arms in the air and looked for help, as the players ignored him and lined up for the inbounds play. South Beach gets to a rookie.
1) Tough loss. Got down 17 late in the third quarter, but rode Wade's ridiculous finish (40 points, 11 assists, 5 blocks) back to a lead midway through the 4th, only to get beat by two late, bad-look Anthony Parker jump shots. Anthony Parker? Tough, tough loss.
2) A leading statistical indicator of really bad teams is that they get blown out at home. Decent teams very rarely get blown out at home. Can't get blown out at home - have to battle. Second night of a back-to-back for both teams and Miami definitely looked fresher down the stretch, battling their way back in a game that looked lost.
3) Michael Beasley in his first slump. Couldn't stay on the court with foul trouble and played only 12 minutes as Coach Spo played Quinn, Wade, Cook, Marion, and Anthony almost the entire 4th quarter, only pulling Anthony for Haslem late. Always tough to know when a group that has battled so hard and so well is gassed and needs help. Spoelstra gave this group a chance to finish it on their own, and they came up just a bit short.
4) Jermaine O'Neal with 35 rebounds in two games against Miami in the past four nights.
5) We at Dos Minutos make a good deal of fun of Shawn Marion, so tonight he gets his due. Scored 20 on 10-17, and added 14 rebounds. Even better, he held Chris Bosh to a 7-17, and only 1 free throw, primarily without help. Great night.
6) Rookie referee Eric Dalen spent his entire night asking for help, arms outstretched at his side. At one point Raptor guard Will Solomon grabbed a rebound while flying through the air, landed three feet over the baseline, and dropped the ball on the floor, knowing he was way, way out of bounds. Dalen, standing approximately 8 feet away from him, with no bodies in between, immediately threw his arms in the air and looked for help, as the players ignored him and lined up for the inbounds play. South Beach gets to a rookie.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Heat 94 Wizards 87
6 Thoughts
1) Heros were Daequan Cook and Emcee Chalmers. Cook didn't shoot the ball particularly well (5-12) but competed hard on defense and on the boards. Chalmers did shoot the ball well, finally (5-7 for 15 points). But both young guys showed maturity by making big plays and shots at big moments to ease to a win on the road.
2) Miserable homecoming for Michael Beasley. Played only 16 minutes before getting hauled in the third quarter after a couple of blowbys, and never saw the court again. Had the energy level dialed down to approximately zero. Coach Spo said after the game that he didn't know if Beasley was nervous in his hometown, and that he wasn't mad at him, but the other guys were working well and he could never slot him back in.
3) Wade looked a little subdued on the tweaked ankle, but still mixed in 10 assists to go with 19 points, and 3 blocks, including a huge late rejection of Antawn Jamison. Always to nice to see the affection he and Caron Butler seem to have for each other after games - they shared an exciting season together in Dwyane's first and Caron's second season, and they seem to genuinely like each other. A long season is in store for Tough Juice, though. A long, long season.
4) Quite a nice cravat Gilbert Arenas was sporting on the bench. Worth mentioning that the 120 million dollar contract that he signed this past offseason, just before needing another knee procedure, looks like the death blow for the franchise for the next 4-6 years.
5) Also worth mentioning that new Heat assistant coach David Fizer resembles a young Tone Loc.
6) Shawn Marion - you know what would help the floaters? Stop shooting the floaters.
1) Heros were Daequan Cook and Emcee Chalmers. Cook didn't shoot the ball particularly well (5-12) but competed hard on defense and on the boards. Chalmers did shoot the ball well, finally (5-7 for 15 points). But both young guys showed maturity by making big plays and shots at big moments to ease to a win on the road.
2) Miserable homecoming for Michael Beasley. Played only 16 minutes before getting hauled in the third quarter after a couple of blowbys, and never saw the court again. Had the energy level dialed down to approximately zero. Coach Spo said after the game that he didn't know if Beasley was nervous in his hometown, and that he wasn't mad at him, but the other guys were working well and he could never slot him back in.
3) Wade looked a little subdued on the tweaked ankle, but still mixed in 10 assists to go with 19 points, and 3 blocks, including a huge late rejection of Antawn Jamison. Always to nice to see the affection he and Caron Butler seem to have for each other after games - they shared an exciting season together in Dwyane's first and Caron's second season, and they seem to genuinely like each other. A long season is in store for Tough Juice, though. A long, long season.
4) Quite a nice cravat Gilbert Arenas was sporting on the bench. Worth mentioning that the 120 million dollar contract that he signed this past offseason, just before needing another knee procedure, looks like the death blow for the franchise for the next 4-6 years.
5) Also worth mentioning that new Heat assistant coach David Fizer resembles a young Tone Loc.
6) Shawn Marion - you know what would help the floaters? Stop shooting the floaters.
10 Game Review
Ten games in, even at 5-5, seems like a good time to review the questions we asked to begin the season and see what we have learned thus far.
First, though, a special nod and word of thanks to our most international reader, Scott, from Scotland, who spent some time in the Dos Minutos offices yesterday.
Two points about Scott's visit:
1) He is a huge American sports fan and very knowledgeable. He thinks Dos Minutos is being too pessimistic about the Heat. We think he may be wrong, but we welcome dissenting opinions of all types.
2) The Captain points out that we missed a golden opportunity to discuss with Scott Dos Minutos' second favorite Scotsman, Sean Connery, and especially his contention that it is okay to hit a woman, as long as it is with an open hand, and only in situations "where you give her the last word, and that still isn't good enough." Next time, I suppose.
On to the review and our original roster questions:
Roster Questions on the Eve of a New Season
Joel Anthony
What we know: he is a scrappy, undersized shot blocker
Question: will he ever develop enough offense to get him on the court?
10 game update: At this point, no. He has moved ahead of Mark Blount in the rotation, but still has absolutely horrific hands. His only true skill is shot blocking, but he is too limited in every other way to be of use.
Marcus Banks
What we know: he can create his own shot and score, and is a pest defensively
Question: can he be consistent enough to warrant significant minutes?
10 game update: Started the season strong, then got hurt. The development of Chris Quinn, and most significantly, Daequan Cook, have de-rotationed Banks for the moment. Considering who he he is sitting behind, the answer for now is no.
Michael Beasley
What we know: can score from the high post, wing, and at the rim, with either hand - he is a 20 point game waiting to happen
Question: can he contribute defensively and stay on the court by avoiding the foul trouble that plagues so many rookies?
10 game update: Foul trouble has not been a problem, although he has not been much of a defensive contributor, and has lost minutes lately because of this. He needs to increase his physical presence on both ends of the court - rebound stronger, and get to the line more frequently. For the most part, though, he has stayed on the court, and provided a second scoring option for the team. Good start.
Mark Blount
What we know: started two exhibition games in which he combined for one rebound, and went rebound-less in a third off the bench
Question: is he conscious?
10 game update: Is he conscious? Does Sarah Palin know what the Bush Doctrine is? Maybe, but it would be tough to prove from the evidence on the table...Blount has shot the ball approximately every time he has touched it this season. A limited contributor in other ways. Very limited.
Mario Chalmers
What we know: he is quick and can get to the rim, and is a gambler defensively
Question: can he limit his turnovers enough to be a long-term asset?
10 game update: He hasn't been bad with the turnovers, but he has struggled with his decisions. For example, he runs many pick-and-pops with Beasley - because Chalmers is very quick, the big man has to hedge on him, which leaves Beasley open for a 17 footer every time, a shot he has proven he knocks down with efficiency. But Emcee never, never spits it back to Beasley - he always goes middle looking to score, or kicks it to the other wing. Hopefully, he will learn who needs the ball where, and when. He also needs to make more shots. Defensively, he is a menace, and already plays that end at a more-than-solid NBA level. Decent start - he certainly looks like a long-term asset.
Daequan Cook
What we know: he has a beautiful looking stroke
Question: can he figure out how to get quality shots so that the beautiful stroke translates in to baskets?
10 game update: He has made threes at a 39% clip, which is solid, but is at just 37% overall which demonstrates his inability to make quality plays off the dribble - so the answer is yes and no. However, he has been a defensive surprise, showing an ability to play people in space, and to rebound with enthusiasm. He is in the process of creating an NBA future for himself.
Yakhouba Diawara
What we know: he can't shoot
Question: can he be a lockdown defender of use in spot minutes?
10 game update: Seems to have an absolute passion for two things: fouling dribblers, and launching long threes (3 per game in only 12 minutes per night). Has not demonstrated lockdown ability, or anything else. To be fair, he is supposed to be the third option at this spot behind Dorell Wright and James Jones, neither of whom has been healthy thus far.
Udonis Haslem
What we know: will start at center and though he is severely undersized he will battle opposing big guys with everything that he has
Question: how much of a toll will the beating he inevitably is going to take affect him over the course of the season?
10 game update: He is doing what he can so far: battling and knocking down 63% from the floor. We will see how he holds up over the long haul.
James Jones
What we know: out until at least midseason
Question: what kind of dresser will he be on the bench? Suits? Sweater and slacks?
10 game update: Dress shirt and slacks.
Shaun Livingston
What we know: he sees the court well, understands how to play the point guard position
Question: will he regain enough athleticism to compete in the NBA?
10 game update: So far, no. Saw limited minutes at the beginning of the season, but clearly was not quick enough. Organization is pointing towards next year as a more realistic goal for him, and he has been inactive since the first couple of games.
Jamal Magloire
What we know: before he broke his hand, he still stunk
Question: how quickly will the hand heal and allow him to come back and stink some more? Will he stink at the exact same level, or will the broken hand make him even stinkier?
10 game update: He says he is about two weeks away. He didn't specify which two weeks, though, so let's hope he means around March.
Shawn Marion
What we know: he has looked awkward offensively, but he is the Heat's best defender and rebounder
Question: will his trade value be worth more than the cap room Miami will gain by holding him and letting his contract expire at the end of the season? he will be the subject of constant rumors until the trade deadline passes
10 game update: He is so good defensively that he is a major factor in the Heat's modest successes so far this year. If Miami could trade him for a big guy who can play, they would do it in a second. Since that is unlikely, and since Chalmers and Cook have shown promise, I think it is starting look a little more likely that Marion might be here all year - no need to trade him for a smaller player. Already enough of those here.
Chris Quinn
What we know: he can make open shots, but is not athletic enough to compete in the NBA on a regular basis
Question: how much will he play? If the answer is anything more than spot minutes, that is a very bad sign for Miami
10 game update: He is playing a lot and, actually, playing well. He is essentially splitting minutes with Chalmers, and he is shooting tremendously. He also has 21 assists and 1 - one - turnover so far this year. Still, most nights the Heat are losing the point guard matchup because Chalmers doesn't play offense efficiently, and Quinn is not a strong defender.
Dwyane Wade
What we know: he was fantastic in the Olympics, fantastic in the preseason, and has regained the athleticism that he was forced to play without last year
Question: can he play 75 + games? for Miami to be at all competitive, he will have to
10 game update: The athleticism is back to a ridiculous level, and the numbers show this: 28 points on 50% from the floor, 7 assists, 5 rebounds, 2.5 steals, and a block and a half a game. Still, the question is how healthy can he stay: tweaked an ankle Sunday in Toronto, but says he will play tonight in Washington.
Dorell Wright
What we know: he is a little stiff coming back from knee surgery, and has never had a sustained stretch of success in the league - still, he is the one player on the roster who could conceivably significantly outperform expectations
Question: can he reinvent himself as a high energy/defensive stopper/ball acquisition guy? in previous seasons he has tried to play like a wing scorer - but he needs to be active in the painted area at both ends of the floor to be of value
10 game update: Not yet available, recovering from knee surgery. Daequan Cook is providing a blueprint for "how to use your athleticism to carve out a spot in the NBA while your skills are developing." If Dorell can get on this plan, he can be a contributor - he is even more physically gifted than Cook.
Erik Spoelstra
What we know: the players seem to like him
Question: can he fashion a legitimate identity and rotation for the team that allows them to be competitive most nights?
10 game update: Superb. Has figured out how team has to play to win - small and fast - and has sold them on it. The team looks well organized, and plays hard. He has created a definitive rotation. Puts guys in a position to utilize their strengths.
Season Predictions: 31-51, 11th in the East; Marion traded at deadline for two competent contributors and a #1 draft pick ; Wade plays 68 games; Beasley averages 16 and 7; Dorell Wright and Livingston are non-factors; Chalmers shows enough to possibly be the long-term answer at point guard
10 game update: I can't envision them ever winning five in a row with this roster, but they could easily lose five in a row a couple of times. That puts them right on 31 wins. Due to Cook and Chalmers' development, seems slightly more likely Marion makes it through the year, and they use his cap room in the offseason. Wade has been healthy so far. Beasley is on 16 and 6 right now. Dorell and Livingston haven't played. Chalmers has shown flashes, and defensively is already strong.
First, though, a special nod and word of thanks to our most international reader, Scott, from Scotland, who spent some time in the Dos Minutos offices yesterday.
Two points about Scott's visit:
1) He is a huge American sports fan and very knowledgeable. He thinks Dos Minutos is being too pessimistic about the Heat. We think he may be wrong, but we welcome dissenting opinions of all types.
2) The Captain points out that we missed a golden opportunity to discuss with Scott Dos Minutos' second favorite Scotsman, Sean Connery, and especially his contention that it is okay to hit a woman, as long as it is with an open hand, and only in situations "where you give her the last word, and that still isn't good enough." Next time, I suppose.
On to the review and our original roster questions:
Roster Questions on the Eve of a New Season
Joel Anthony
What we know: he is a scrappy, undersized shot blocker
Question: will he ever develop enough offense to get him on the court?
10 game update: At this point, no. He has moved ahead of Mark Blount in the rotation, but still has absolutely horrific hands. His only true skill is shot blocking, but he is too limited in every other way to be of use.
Marcus Banks
What we know: he can create his own shot and score, and is a pest defensively
Question: can he be consistent enough to warrant significant minutes?
10 game update: Started the season strong, then got hurt. The development of Chris Quinn, and most significantly, Daequan Cook, have de-rotationed Banks for the moment. Considering who he he is sitting behind, the answer for now is no.
Michael Beasley
What we know: can score from the high post, wing, and at the rim, with either hand - he is a 20 point game waiting to happen
Question: can he contribute defensively and stay on the court by avoiding the foul trouble that plagues so many rookies?
10 game update: Foul trouble has not been a problem, although he has not been much of a defensive contributor, and has lost minutes lately because of this. He needs to increase his physical presence on both ends of the court - rebound stronger, and get to the line more frequently. For the most part, though, he has stayed on the court, and provided a second scoring option for the team. Good start.
Mark Blount
What we know: started two exhibition games in which he combined for one rebound, and went rebound-less in a third off the bench
Question: is he conscious?
10 game update: Is he conscious? Does Sarah Palin know what the Bush Doctrine is? Maybe, but it would be tough to prove from the evidence on the table...Blount has shot the ball approximately every time he has touched it this season. A limited contributor in other ways. Very limited.
Mario Chalmers
What we know: he is quick and can get to the rim, and is a gambler defensively
Question: can he limit his turnovers enough to be a long-term asset?
10 game update: He hasn't been bad with the turnovers, but he has struggled with his decisions. For example, he runs many pick-and-pops with Beasley - because Chalmers is very quick, the big man has to hedge on him, which leaves Beasley open for a 17 footer every time, a shot he has proven he knocks down with efficiency. But Emcee never, never spits it back to Beasley - he always goes middle looking to score, or kicks it to the other wing. Hopefully, he will learn who needs the ball where, and when. He also needs to make more shots. Defensively, he is a menace, and already plays that end at a more-than-solid NBA level. Decent start - he certainly looks like a long-term asset.
Daequan Cook
What we know: he has a beautiful looking stroke
Question: can he figure out how to get quality shots so that the beautiful stroke translates in to baskets?
10 game update: He has made threes at a 39% clip, which is solid, but is at just 37% overall which demonstrates his inability to make quality plays off the dribble - so the answer is yes and no. However, he has been a defensive surprise, showing an ability to play people in space, and to rebound with enthusiasm. He is in the process of creating an NBA future for himself.
Yakhouba Diawara
What we know: he can't shoot
Question: can he be a lockdown defender of use in spot minutes?
10 game update: Seems to have an absolute passion for two things: fouling dribblers, and launching long threes (3 per game in only 12 minutes per night). Has not demonstrated lockdown ability, or anything else. To be fair, he is supposed to be the third option at this spot behind Dorell Wright and James Jones, neither of whom has been healthy thus far.
Udonis Haslem
What we know: will start at center and though he is severely undersized he will battle opposing big guys with everything that he has
Question: how much of a toll will the beating he inevitably is going to take affect him over the course of the season?
10 game update: He is doing what he can so far: battling and knocking down 63% from the floor. We will see how he holds up over the long haul.
James Jones
What we know: out until at least midseason
Question: what kind of dresser will he be on the bench? Suits? Sweater and slacks?
10 game update: Dress shirt and slacks.
Shaun Livingston
What we know: he sees the court well, understands how to play the point guard position
Question: will he regain enough athleticism to compete in the NBA?
10 game update: So far, no. Saw limited minutes at the beginning of the season, but clearly was not quick enough. Organization is pointing towards next year as a more realistic goal for him, and he has been inactive since the first couple of games.
Jamal Magloire
What we know: before he broke his hand, he still stunk
Question: how quickly will the hand heal and allow him to come back and stink some more? Will he stink at the exact same level, or will the broken hand make him even stinkier?
10 game update: He says he is about two weeks away. He didn't specify which two weeks, though, so let's hope he means around March.
Shawn Marion
What we know: he has looked awkward offensively, but he is the Heat's best defender and rebounder
Question: will his trade value be worth more than the cap room Miami will gain by holding him and letting his contract expire at the end of the season? he will be the subject of constant rumors until the trade deadline passes
10 game update: He is so good defensively that he is a major factor in the Heat's modest successes so far this year. If Miami could trade him for a big guy who can play, they would do it in a second. Since that is unlikely, and since Chalmers and Cook have shown promise, I think it is starting look a little more likely that Marion might be here all year - no need to trade him for a smaller player. Already enough of those here.
Chris Quinn
What we know: he can make open shots, but is not athletic enough to compete in the NBA on a regular basis
Question: how much will he play? If the answer is anything more than spot minutes, that is a very bad sign for Miami
10 game update: He is playing a lot and, actually, playing well. He is essentially splitting minutes with Chalmers, and he is shooting tremendously. He also has 21 assists and 1 - one - turnover so far this year. Still, most nights the Heat are losing the point guard matchup because Chalmers doesn't play offense efficiently, and Quinn is not a strong defender.
Dwyane Wade
What we know: he was fantastic in the Olympics, fantastic in the preseason, and has regained the athleticism that he was forced to play without last year
Question: can he play 75 + games? for Miami to be at all competitive, he will have to
10 game update: The athleticism is back to a ridiculous level, and the numbers show this: 28 points on 50% from the floor, 7 assists, 5 rebounds, 2.5 steals, and a block and a half a game. Still, the question is how healthy can he stay: tweaked an ankle Sunday in Toronto, but says he will play tonight in Washington.
Dorell Wright
What we know: he is a little stiff coming back from knee surgery, and has never had a sustained stretch of success in the league - still, he is the one player on the roster who could conceivably significantly outperform expectations
Question: can he reinvent himself as a high energy/defensive stopper/ball acquisition guy? in previous seasons he has tried to play like a wing scorer - but he needs to be active in the painted area at both ends of the floor to be of value
10 game update: Not yet available, recovering from knee surgery. Daequan Cook is providing a blueprint for "how to use your athleticism to carve out a spot in the NBA while your skills are developing." If Dorell can get on this plan, he can be a contributor - he is even more physically gifted than Cook.
Erik Spoelstra
What we know: the players seem to like him
Question: can he fashion a legitimate identity and rotation for the team that allows them to be competitive most nights?
10 game update: Superb. Has figured out how team has to play to win - small and fast - and has sold them on it. The team looks well organized, and plays hard. He has created a definitive rotation. Puts guys in a position to utilize their strengths.
Season Predictions: 31-51, 11th in the East; Marion traded at deadline for two competent contributors and a #1 draft pick ; Wade plays 68 games; Beasley averages 16 and 7; Dorell Wright and Livingston are non-factors; Chalmers shows enough to possibly be the long-term answer at point guard
10 game update: I can't envision them ever winning five in a row with this roster, but they could easily lose five in a row a couple of times. That puts them right on 31 wins. Due to Cook and Chalmers' development, seems slightly more likely Marion makes it through the year, and they use his cap room in the offseason. Wade has been healthy so far. Beasley is on 16 and 6 right now. Dorell and Livingston haven't played. Chalmers has shown flashes, and defensively is already strong.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Ask Dos Minutos
Dos Minutos' favorite reader, D in Cincinnati, asks the following question:
I have a good topic of discussion for DM. You have hit on it indirectly with some breakdowns of the Heat and it is something that parallels what I have seen with the Cavs from following them.
You thought the Heat would struggle because of lack of length. Now, of course, that is their roster and nothing can be done about it. It seems as if they have been surprisingly competitive and the lack of length hasn’t hurt them that badly.
At the same time, MB even leading into the season has been talking about going with a small line up a lot this year to exploit match ups and to simply change things up. He has had line ups with both LBJ and Wally at the 4 and AV at the 5 and then three what would be considered smaller guards at the 1, 2, and 3.
This line up has done really, really well so far.
Is this coincidence? Is there a shift in paradigm in the NBA? Is this a response to lack of quality bigs in the association? Is this simply an evolution such as football that size is nice but speed and athleticism kills?
Again, the Cavs do it by choice and can go big so it isn’t exactly the same but I thought it interesting. No way in Hades would I have expected to see this from the Cavs three or four years ago. Sure, LBJ at the 4 but with some other length around him.
What say you?
I have a good topic of discussion for DM. You have hit on it indirectly with some breakdowns of the Heat and it is something that parallels what I have seen with the Cavs from following them.
You thought the Heat would struggle because of lack of length. Now, of course, that is their roster and nothing can be done about it. It seems as if they have been surprisingly competitive and the lack of length hasn’t hurt them that badly.
At the same time, MB even leading into the season has been talking about going with a small line up a lot this year to exploit match ups and to simply change things up. He has had line ups with both LBJ and Wally at the 4 and AV at the 5 and then three what would be considered smaller guards at the 1, 2, and 3.
This line up has done really, really well so far.
Is this coincidence? Is there a shift in paradigm in the NBA? Is this a response to lack of quality bigs in the association? Is this simply an evolution such as football that size is nice but speed and athleticism kills?
Again, the Cavs do it by choice and can go big so it isn’t exactly the same but I thought it interesting. No way in Hades would I have expected to see this from the Cavs three or four years ago. Sure, LBJ at the 4 but with some other length around him.
What say you?
Great question by D in Cincy who clearly has an absolute passion for length.
There is a significant lack of big-time power players in the NBA. As he loves to point out, Shaq is one of the last of a dying breed. Taller players now tend to have more well-rounded games: Yao, Chris Bosh, even Amare Stoudamire, who has shown an ability to make the 17 footer. Offensively, you can certainly survive without a physical post presence.
The problem is on the defensive end. While Boston didn't have a big-time post scorer last year, they had two large, long physical presences in the paint defensively in Kendrick Perkins and Kevin Garnett. In the Finals those two guys were able to take away a lot of what Gasol wanted to accomplish around the rim, and also deter drives to the basket. Furthermore, they allowed Boston to be successful on the boards.
Miami is a freak example of going small. They aren't going small with one big and four smalls - they are going small with four smalls. Udonis Haslem is an undersized power forward being used at center. Mike Beasley is undersized for a power forward, and Shawn Marion is small forward sized, with no small forward skill set. They have survived offensively because they have Dwyane Wade, and because they can space the floor with Beasley and Haslem - one of the two of them almost always has a post defender guarding him, and thus has an advantage because they can step out on the floor and make jumpers. However, defensively, there are games where they can't compete. In last night's game against Toronto, Chris Bosh could catch the ball wherever he wanted and explode to the rim. With no shot blocker, all Miami could do was foul him, or hope he missed the layup. They had similar problems against Portland. Miami is 5-5 through 10 games, but their schedule has been soft, and Wade has been ridiculous. Over the course of 82 games, they are going to get pounded by better teams because they have no way to protect the painted area defensively.
Cleveland is a different situation, as you astutely pointed out. First of all, literally, LeBron would probably be the tallest rotation player on Miami. And, he can certainly rebound and defend more than effectively at the four. And, Varejo and Ilgauskas are both big physical defensive presences in the middle. It isn't so much that this lineup is that small as it is a redeployment of their assets. LeBron is strong and should be able to defend any power forward; but, no power forward has the ability to step away from the basket and play him in space. Advantage Cavs - I love this lineup for them. Even Wally, in spot minutes at the 4, will be able to get open shots against power forward unused to defending people in space away from the basket. Yet, the Cavs still have Varejo and Ilgauskas to deter easy drives to the basket, as well as provide an offensive rebounding presence, which is an overlooked strength of Ilgauskas.
As a nod to Dos Minutos reader Plumber in New Jersey, the Nets are looking to accomplish the same thing by playing Yi at the power forward. He has shown some ability to make long jump shots - if he develops a similar ability to defend this position, he can become a huge asset for the Nets.
So, overall, D from Cincy, I agree with you wholeheartedly - going small is all the rage, but you still need to have someone on the court to defend the basket area.
Great question, feel free to write Dos Minutos any time.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
The Incomparable LDP
Caught the end of a special Thanksgiving Iron Chef tonight, just in time to see the judging featuring not one but two Dos Minutos favorites, Tiki Barber, and the incomparable Lou Diamond Phillips.
One thing was clear: Lou Diamond has an absolute passion for fine foods, and hearing himself tell stories about the meaning of Thanksgiving. LDP on one dish, a piece of lobster topped with toasted brown sugar and a light cream sauce: "This is fantastic because the initial Thanksgiving was a celebration of cultures coming together, and this dish represents that eloquently with its mixture of East and West."
Tiki Barber's opinion on the same dish: "It tastes like cereal."
One thing was clear: Lou Diamond has an absolute passion for fine foods, and hearing himself tell stories about the meaning of Thanksgiving. LDP on one dish, a piece of lobster topped with toasted brown sugar and a light cream sauce: "This is fantastic because the initial Thanksgiving was a celebration of cultures coming together, and this dish represents that eloquently with its mixture of East and West."
Tiki Barber's opinion on the same dish: "It tastes like cereal."
Raptors 107 Heat 96
6 Thoughts
1) Completely pounded in the paint - Toronto started three guys around 7 feet tall; Miami doesn't even have a rotation player that big. Jermaine O'Neal had 18 rebounds, and Bosh hammered them for 27 points, most of them on layups and free throws.
2) Old friend Jason Kapono stuck the dagger in with three jumpers in the decisive fourth quarter run.
3) Michael Beasley played only 26 minutes. He was matched up with Bosh most of the night and it was difficult for him on both ends. Slogged his way to 13 and 6, but was not efficient.
4) Thank heavens for Tivo because Sunday afternoon games are brutal. So far Dos Minutos is 10 for 10 in complete games watched. This is a start approaching the magical '96-97 when Dos Minutos watched 77 of 82 regular season games. With Tivo now a significant factor, many feel that record is within reach.
5) Through 10 games, Chris Quinn has 21 assists and 1 turnover, and is shooting 54% from three. He has made himself into a legitimate backup NBA point guard.
6) I like the addition of O'Neal to Toronto. He is a defensive and rebounding presence, though much of his offense is gone. He will reduce the pounding on Chris Bosh over the course of the regular season. I don't think this team can win the East with Bargniani, Jamario Moon, and Anthony Parker as their primary wing players. Still, Bosh is brilliant, they are an entertaining team, and I will enjoy watching them try to do so.
1) Completely pounded in the paint - Toronto started three guys around 7 feet tall; Miami doesn't even have a rotation player that big. Jermaine O'Neal had 18 rebounds, and Bosh hammered them for 27 points, most of them on layups and free throws.
2) Old friend Jason Kapono stuck the dagger in with three jumpers in the decisive fourth quarter run.
3) Michael Beasley played only 26 minutes. He was matched up with Bosh most of the night and it was difficult for him on both ends. Slogged his way to 13 and 6, but was not efficient.
4) Thank heavens for Tivo because Sunday afternoon games are brutal. So far Dos Minutos is 10 for 10 in complete games watched. This is a start approaching the magical '96-97 when Dos Minutos watched 77 of 82 regular season games. With Tivo now a significant factor, many feel that record is within reach.
5) Through 10 games, Chris Quinn has 21 assists and 1 turnover, and is shooting 54% from three. He has made himself into a legitimate backup NBA point guard.
6) I like the addition of O'Neal to Toronto. He is a defensive and rebounding presence, though much of his offense is gone. He will reduce the pounding on Chris Bosh over the course of the regular season. I don't think this team can win the East with Bargniani, Jamario Moon, and Anthony Parker as their primary wing players. Still, Bosh is brilliant, they are an entertaining team, and I will enjoy watching them try to do so.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Heat 97 Wizards 77
6 Thoughts
1) True, they have all been against bad rosters. But, the Heat have blown out three teams at home, twice getting ahead by as much as 29 in the third quarter. I wouldn't have guessed they would have two games where they led by 29 all year. The Heat was +19 on the boards - the Wizards are injured, and brutal; but you still can't get outrebounded by 19 by the smallest team in the league. Besides all their other problems, Caron Butler had to be hurt or sick - I have never seen him so inactive.
2) Dwyane Wade was the model of efficiency: 24 points on 10 shots in three quarters. Fourth quarter off. He's back above 50% from the floor for the year. For a guy his size, that is ridiculous. But it also shows there is a little more space out there for him this year.
3) Alonzo Mourning was a guest color commentator for a stretch in the second quarter, pimping his memoir "Resiliance." Heat color commentator Tony Fiorentino has been reading the book all year and can apply a Zo parable to almost any basketball, or life, situation. "You know what I really like about the book?," Tony told Zo tonight, "it has its own vernacular." Indeed.
4) Another game in which Mike Beasley was unguardable early, only to fade somewhat in the second half. South Beach takes its toll on a rookie.
5) Like that second year Wizard guard Nick Young. Good looking scorer. Less good looking is second year, seven foot Ukranian center Oleksiy Pecherov, who looks like a taller, gawkier, more foreign Chris Elliott. He also has the approximate offensive game of Mark Blount. As Pat Riley would say, "he has an absolute passion for shooting bad threes."
6) League notes from Friday night:
Nets win - Brook Lopez going large for 25 and 9. That's hard to believe, as much as I like his potential. My friend, Nets fan Plumber, has never been angrier at coach Lawrence Frank than he was this afternoon, which is saying something because Plumber generally hates Lawrence Frank with the passion of a thousand suns. Perhaps Frank will get some credit from Plumber for Lopez' breakout game, but I suspect not. Plumber has an absolute passion for hating Lawrence Frank.
Chauncey Billups looks odd in a Denver uniform; Allen Iverson, conversely, looks totally normal in a Pistons uniform.
1) True, they have all been against bad rosters. But, the Heat have blown out three teams at home, twice getting ahead by as much as 29 in the third quarter. I wouldn't have guessed they would have two games where they led by 29 all year. The Heat was +19 on the boards - the Wizards are injured, and brutal; but you still can't get outrebounded by 19 by the smallest team in the league. Besides all their other problems, Caron Butler had to be hurt or sick - I have never seen him so inactive.
2) Dwyane Wade was the model of efficiency: 24 points on 10 shots in three quarters. Fourth quarter off. He's back above 50% from the floor for the year. For a guy his size, that is ridiculous. But it also shows there is a little more space out there for him this year.
3) Alonzo Mourning was a guest color commentator for a stretch in the second quarter, pimping his memoir "Resiliance." Heat color commentator Tony Fiorentino has been reading the book all year and can apply a Zo parable to almost any basketball, or life, situation. "You know what I really like about the book?," Tony told Zo tonight, "it has its own vernacular." Indeed.
4) Another game in which Mike Beasley was unguardable early, only to fade somewhat in the second half. South Beach takes its toll on a rookie.
5) Like that second year Wizard guard Nick Young. Good looking scorer. Less good looking is second year, seven foot Ukranian center Oleksiy Pecherov, who looks like a taller, gawkier, more foreign Chris Elliott. He also has the approximate offensive game of Mark Blount. As Pat Riley would say, "he has an absolute passion for shooting bad threes."
6) League notes from Friday night:
Nets win - Brook Lopez going large for 25 and 9. That's hard to believe, as much as I like his potential. My friend, Nets fan Plumber, has never been angrier at coach Lawrence Frank than he was this afternoon, which is saying something because Plumber generally hates Lawrence Frank with the passion of a thousand suns. Perhaps Frank will get some credit from Plumber for Lopez' breakout game, but I suspect not. Plumber has an absolute passion for hating Lawrence Frank.
Chauncey Billups looks odd in a Denver uniform; Allen Iverson, conversely, looks totally normal in a Pistons uniform.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
JTP update
Checked out J the P's website yesterday. This guy has an absolute passion for hating entitlement programs. Though he has, at times, benefitted from them. Still, when I read that he is planning to release c ountry western cd, I felt he may be taking his career in the wrong direction, so I dropped him a note. My friends, I encourage everyone to join his website: http://secureourdream.com/
Here is the email I dropped him:
Joe-
I think you are making a big mistake pursuing a record deal. There is limited upside to the record industry right now. The book deal is fine if you get a big enough advance.
I think you need to jump right in to the reality tv world. Surreal Life, Dancing with the Stars, etc – that’s where the cash is, kid.
I saw you recently on the Huckabee Show – I didn’t like you having to be on there with that illegal immigrant Tito the Builder. That was disrespectful to you, Joe. That dude is a clown – I bet he doesn’t have his own entitlement watchdog website, and he never will.
God bless you, Joe, and God bless the United States of America!
Here is the email I dropped him:
Joe-
I think you are making a big mistake pursuing a record deal. There is limited upside to the record industry right now. The book deal is fine if you get a big enough advance.
I think you need to jump right in to the reality tv world. Surreal Life, Dancing with the Stars, etc – that’s where the cash is, kid.
I saw you recently on the Huckabee Show – I didn’t like you having to be on there with that illegal immigrant Tito the Builder. That was disrespectful to you, Joe. That dude is a clown – I bet he doesn’t have his own entitlement watchdog website, and he never will.
God bless you, Joe, and God bless the United States of America!
Here is his gracious response:
Thank you for your inquiry. Version-2 of SecureOurDream.com will go live soon. Please be patient and keep checking back. Our volunteer web development team is working round the clock to help us all get this movement off the ground.
If you have any urgent requests, please contact us at 877-PEARL-21.
Sincerely,
Joe
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Trail Blazers 104 Heat 96
6 Thoughts
1) A disappointing loss, but not a bad one. Energy level was high against a good and especially tall team, and a solid bounceback from a desultory effort against New Jersey. Even without Marion the Heat was able to compete on the boards a little, and they had chances late, but couldn't catch a break. Coming in to the season, I thought this was the type of team that Miami couldn't compete with - that they were able to demonstrates the considerable moxie they are playing with thus far.
2) I almost can't believe it, but Chris Quinn has fashioned himself into a legitimate NBA role player. 10 points and 5 assists in 30 minutes tonight, including a Plumber-special look-away-then-shoot three point play at the third quarter buzzer. He is a legitimate shooter off of an NBA bench and he doesn't turn the ball over. Still going to have trouble defensively, but he competes on that end.
3) Beasley saw punitive pine time in the second half. He had a couple of plays where he didn't contest drivers and Spoelstra yakked him. Disappointing because for the first time I thought he and Wade started to play off each other in a two man game. They will figure it out. He contested a drive in the first half, actually, took the blow, and got called for a block - it was debatable whether he got outside the circle or not. Dick Bavetta made the call, so maybe it was correct, but I certainly wouldn't, ummm, bet on it
4) A Mark Blount sighting - stumbled his way into three rebounds in eleven minutes. One was a surreal moment where LaMarcus Aldridge lost control of a layup and the ball seemed to hover in front of Blount's face for days before reluctantly cradled it. Took three long jumpers - it would have been more but he only touched the ball three times. Demonstrates the general reaction time and awareness of my 95 year old Grandpa Les driving in a severe fog. In related and disturbing news, Jamal Magloire has begun practicing, and expects to return soon. I could have sworn he supposed to be out longer, wasn't he?
5) Miami played its second straight game against a highly touted rookie big man. Greg Oden played 16 minutes and had a bucket and a couple of blocks. He looks awkward offensively, but is long, pretty quick, strong, and is already a menace defensively. Maybe I have been influenced by others saying it, maybe it is because he looks 40 - but he just seems like a guy with a body that can't hold up. I hope it does, because he seems like a good kid. If he can hold it together, he is definitely going to be a big-time player.
6) I haven't seen Derrick Rose yet - until I do, the best rookie I have seen so far is Rudy Fernandez. He was terrific in the Olympics and he was terrific tonight. He is a whirl of activity at about 6'6" or 6'7" - he gets to the rim and finishes with aggression, he shoots it from deep, and has a nice in between game. He is a high level NBA small forward right now. If there is any criticism to make of him, it is that when he touches it, it is going up. On the whole, though, extremely impressive.
1) A disappointing loss, but not a bad one. Energy level was high against a good and especially tall team, and a solid bounceback from a desultory effort against New Jersey. Even without Marion the Heat was able to compete on the boards a little, and they had chances late, but couldn't catch a break. Coming in to the season, I thought this was the type of team that Miami couldn't compete with - that they were able to demonstrates the considerable moxie they are playing with thus far.
2) I almost can't believe it, but Chris Quinn has fashioned himself into a legitimate NBA role player. 10 points and 5 assists in 30 minutes tonight, including a Plumber-special look-away-then-shoot three point play at the third quarter buzzer. He is a legitimate shooter off of an NBA bench and he doesn't turn the ball over. Still going to have trouble defensively, but he competes on that end.
3) Beasley saw punitive pine time in the second half. He had a couple of plays where he didn't contest drivers and Spoelstra yakked him. Disappointing because for the first time I thought he and Wade started to play off each other in a two man game. They will figure it out. He contested a drive in the first half, actually, took the blow, and got called for a block - it was debatable whether he got outside the circle or not. Dick Bavetta made the call, so maybe it was correct, but I certainly wouldn't, ummm, bet on it
4) A Mark Blount sighting - stumbled his way into three rebounds in eleven minutes. One was a surreal moment where LaMarcus Aldridge lost control of a layup and the ball seemed to hover in front of Blount's face for days before reluctantly cradled it. Took three long jumpers - it would have been more but he only touched the ball three times. Demonstrates the general reaction time and awareness of my 95 year old Grandpa Les driving in a severe fog. In related and disturbing news, Jamal Magloire has begun practicing, and expects to return soon. I could have sworn he supposed to be out longer, wasn't he?
5) Miami played its second straight game against a highly touted rookie big man. Greg Oden played 16 minutes and had a bucket and a couple of blocks. He looks awkward offensively, but is long, pretty quick, strong, and is already a menace defensively. Maybe I have been influenced by others saying it, maybe it is because he looks 40 - but he just seems like a guy with a body that can't hold up. I hope it does, because he seems like a good kid. If he can hold it together, he is definitely going to be a big-time player.
6) I haven't seen Derrick Rose yet - until I do, the best rookie I have seen so far is Rudy Fernandez. He was terrific in the Olympics and he was terrific tonight. He is a whirl of activity at about 6'6" or 6'7" - he gets to the rim and finishes with aggression, he shoots it from deep, and has a nice in between game. He is a high level NBA small forward right now. If there is any criticism to make of him, it is that when he touches it, it is going up. On the whole, though, extremely impressive.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Heat 99 Nets 94
6 Thoughts
1) Tough game to watch for much of the nights- realistically Miami can't play at that pace and win, but without Marion it is tough for them to speed the game up defensively. As bad as he is offensively, he is equally proficient on the defensive end, and that was evident tonight.
2) The Chairman went bananas. 5-6 on 3s, and two other long jumpers where his foot was on the line. He has a nice stroke, but he had never made more than two threes in a game before. I'm just saying...
3) Vince Carter was the best player in the game for three and a half quarters. He controlled the ball in the middle of the court, created angles, and then reversed the ball to spaced shooters, who also did a good job of making the extra pass, leading to a ton of open threes. He struggled late, though - he really looks like he has lost quite a bit of lift around the rim, and he had one unfortunate defensive possession with a minute to go where he got caught looking over at the bench as Dwyane Wade drove by him into the paint and created a foul.
4) Daequan Cook had his first real NBA game, his first game where his athletic potential leaked into actual production at a meaningful moments. He hit a couple of threes, as he often will, but it was his aggressive drive to the rim to tie the game at 86 and his defense in space against Vince Carter down the stretch that made me happy for him.
5) The young fellas: Beasley and Lopez. Beasley got loose in the first half and kept Miami in the game while everyone else endured a brutal twenty-four minutes. He scored 15, and I thought they should have force fed him more - it was clear Yi did not have the quickness to handle him in the post. Sort of got caught standing around in the second half, but still, another step in the learning process. Brook Lopez never got untracked. Traveled instantly upon entering the game, then followed it with another shortly thereafter. Committed a push in the back foul on a rebound he probably could have outsized Joel Anthony on. Hit a "cutting" Dwyane Wade for a turnover. Looked awkward in general. Still, though, his size is impressive, and I have no doubt he can compete in the league. I don't think he is athletic enough to be a star, but he is certainly going to figure out what his strengths and weaknesses are, and be in the league a long time. He is reported to be a good face up shooter - didn't have any opportunities to do that tonight.
6) Would like to say something about old friend Keyon Dooling, but spot #6 has to be reserved for Dwyane Wade. A brutal three and a half quarters, a scintillating finish. Again, it can't be said often enough: there is a qualitative difference between the very best perimeter guys in the league - Wade, LeBron, Kobe - and everybody else. These guys win games that other guys can't win, and it isn't always Game 6 of the Finals, or Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals, or huge playoff games against Detroit. Sometimes it is a crappy Monday in November against a bad team, in a low energy game that they slog through for two hours before coming alive for 19 points in the 4th quarter. I mean he was awful - awful - for three quarters. And then he hit three threes in the fourth quarter - he hadn't made one all year. Only guys like him do things like that. It is a pleasure to see him healthy again, and able to seize a game like this. Let's hope he stays that way.
1) Tough game to watch for much of the nights- realistically Miami can't play at that pace and win, but without Marion it is tough for them to speed the game up defensively. As bad as he is offensively, he is equally proficient on the defensive end, and that was evident tonight.
2) The Chairman went bananas. 5-6 on 3s, and two other long jumpers where his foot was on the line. He has a nice stroke, but he had never made more than two threes in a game before. I'm just saying...
3) Vince Carter was the best player in the game for three and a half quarters. He controlled the ball in the middle of the court, created angles, and then reversed the ball to spaced shooters, who also did a good job of making the extra pass, leading to a ton of open threes. He struggled late, though - he really looks like he has lost quite a bit of lift around the rim, and he had one unfortunate defensive possession with a minute to go where he got caught looking over at the bench as Dwyane Wade drove by him into the paint and created a foul.
4) Daequan Cook had his first real NBA game, his first game where his athletic potential leaked into actual production at a meaningful moments. He hit a couple of threes, as he often will, but it was his aggressive drive to the rim to tie the game at 86 and his defense in space against Vince Carter down the stretch that made me happy for him.
5) The young fellas: Beasley and Lopez. Beasley got loose in the first half and kept Miami in the game while everyone else endured a brutal twenty-four minutes. He scored 15, and I thought they should have force fed him more - it was clear Yi did not have the quickness to handle him in the post. Sort of got caught standing around in the second half, but still, another step in the learning process. Brook Lopez never got untracked. Traveled instantly upon entering the game, then followed it with another shortly thereafter. Committed a push in the back foul on a rebound he probably could have outsized Joel Anthony on. Hit a "cutting" Dwyane Wade for a turnover. Looked awkward in general. Still, though, his size is impressive, and I have no doubt he can compete in the league. I don't think he is athletic enough to be a star, but he is certainly going to figure out what his strengths and weaknesses are, and be in the league a long time. He is reported to be a good face up shooter - didn't have any opportunities to do that tonight.
6) Would like to say something about old friend Keyon Dooling, but spot #6 has to be reserved for Dwyane Wade. A brutal three and a half quarters, a scintillating finish. Again, it can't be said often enough: there is a qualitative difference between the very best perimeter guys in the league - Wade, LeBron, Kobe - and everybody else. These guys win games that other guys can't win, and it isn't always Game 6 of the Finals, or Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals, or huge playoff games against Detroit. Sometimes it is a crappy Monday in November against a bad team, in a low energy game that they slog through for two hours before coming alive for 19 points in the 4th quarter. I mean he was awful - awful - for three quarters. And then he hit three threes in the fourth quarter - he hadn't made one all year. Only guys like him do things like that. It is a pleasure to see him healthy again, and able to seize a game like this. Let's hope he stays that way.
Heat-Nets preview
Heat and Nets get it on tonight for the first time this year. This isn't exactly a preview of the Eastern Conference Finals, I am guessing. Nets have a huge size advantage up front - Bobby Simmons, literally, might by Miami's tallest rotation player. Heat has Dwyane Wade. I would estimate that, roughly, sides is about even.
More importantly - a television recommendation:
So I am sitting by myself last night at about 11, waiting for Mami to get home. I had been doing research all evening, so I just felt like vegging out in front of the tv and eating something. I didn’t feel like watching the end of the football game, so I flipped though the guide and saw something called “Huckabee,” directed by Oliver Stone, featuring Joe the Plumber. I’m like, “wow, Stone turned that out quickly.” So of course I had to check it out.
I was off, way, way off. It is a talk show on FoxNews (I hadn’t noticed that in the guide), hosted by, of course, Mike Huckabee. I thought he was the governor of a state, probably Arkansas, but that gig must have wrapped up.
First of all, Oliver Stone was not the director, but rather the first guest. But before they got to him, Huck took questions from the audience, which was excellent. I estimate the production cost of the set at about $400. Huck is very respectful answering the questions, and tries to be even handed. He was disappointed, though, that the Mormon Church is taking so much flak for financially supporting the anti-gay marriage issue in California because: 1) they have every legal right to do so, 2) Huck believes that they have a moral responsibility to do so, and 3) the gay marriage law was a reversal of a previous vote against gay marriage by the California people. Who orchestrated the reversal? “A few judges.”
Stone was money, as you can imagine. They actually were very respectful to each other, although when Huck threw the blame for Vietnam on Kennedy when Stone was hammering Nixon, Stone had to say, “Oh, come on, Mike.” They both agreed that George Bush is a well-intentioned man although they disagree on whether or not he used the war in Iraq for political purposes. You can guess who came down where.
Luckily at this point Mami got home just in time for the big event. It wasn’t just JTP who was going to be on – it was going to be the first ever meeting between JTP and Florida’s version of JTP, Tito the Builder (you might not be familiar with him, but he was everywhere down here – he was a new citizen voting for the first time since he came to America to, ironically, escape socialism. Imagine his surprise and disappointment when…).
Disturbing/hilarious aspects of this meeting:
1) I kid you not – it turns out it is the third time JTP has been on the Huck show.
2) Huck pronounces “Tito” as “Ti – Toe,” emphasizing the second “t.” When you stop to think about it, you will realize a normal person rolls it as more of a “d.”
3) Turns out the guys didn’t necessarily seem to have much chemistry. Not sure how JTP feels about immigrants, especially Hispanic immigrants. You know how tough his stance was on immigration reform.
4) The crowd, predictably, went crazy when they came out. Huck says something to the effect of “I should have you guys on every week.” Tito says, no joke, “How much would you pay?” Huck laughs it off, says something like, “whatever it is, it is more than we deserve for having the pleasure of doing this show each week with such a great audience,” but Tito and Joe were looking at him, like, “no, really, how much?”
5) JTP is now running a political watchdog website because he is “against entitlements.” Yes. He is against something alright.
So that segment ends, then there is a boring segment with one of the Little Rock Nine – Huck is clearly one of those evangelical guys who feels it is his Christian duty not to discriminate against black people, even though he is a little scared of them.
Then he says that after the break the "something Rollers," the house band, are going to play a Billy Joel classic. I tell Mami, 1) I pray Huck straps the bass on, and 2) it has to be “Still Rock and Roll.”
Yes and no. Huck does strap the bass on while explaining that everyone in the Rollers is a Fox employee, and then introduces them. Mami and I notice that he describes the guitar player as a free lance editor – not technically a Fox employee – but it was probably hard to find a guitar player. But they don’t play “Still Rock and Roll,” they go deeper in the catalog: “You May Be Right.” The young guy singer pointedly does not sell the “Hey, but it just might be a luuuuunnnnatic you’re looking for” line - just sings it straight, like he hasn’t really heard the song before, maybe because he is about 25, and the song came out in 1978, and he isn’t from Long Island.
Sunday nights at 11pm.
Best. Show. Ever.
More importantly - a television recommendation:
So I am sitting by myself last night at about 11, waiting for Mami to get home. I had been doing research all evening, so I just felt like vegging out in front of the tv and eating something. I didn’t feel like watching the end of the football game, so I flipped though the guide and saw something called “Huckabee,” directed by Oliver Stone, featuring Joe the Plumber. I’m like, “wow, Stone turned that out quickly.” So of course I had to check it out.
I was off, way, way off. It is a talk show on FoxNews (I hadn’t noticed that in the guide), hosted by, of course, Mike Huckabee. I thought he was the governor of a state, probably Arkansas, but that gig must have wrapped up.
First of all, Oliver Stone was not the director, but rather the first guest. But before they got to him, Huck took questions from the audience, which was excellent. I estimate the production cost of the set at about $400. Huck is very respectful answering the questions, and tries to be even handed. He was disappointed, though, that the Mormon Church is taking so much flak for financially supporting the anti-gay marriage issue in California because: 1) they have every legal right to do so, 2) Huck believes that they have a moral responsibility to do so, and 3) the gay marriage law was a reversal of a previous vote against gay marriage by the California people. Who orchestrated the reversal? “A few judges.”
Stone was money, as you can imagine. They actually were very respectful to each other, although when Huck threw the blame for Vietnam on Kennedy when Stone was hammering Nixon, Stone had to say, “Oh, come on, Mike.” They both agreed that George Bush is a well-intentioned man although they disagree on whether or not he used the war in Iraq for political purposes. You can guess who came down where.
Luckily at this point Mami got home just in time for the big event. It wasn’t just JTP who was going to be on – it was going to be the first ever meeting between JTP and Florida’s version of JTP, Tito the Builder (you might not be familiar with him, but he was everywhere down here – he was a new citizen voting for the first time since he came to America to, ironically, escape socialism. Imagine his surprise and disappointment when…).
Disturbing/hilarious aspects of this meeting:
1) I kid you not – it turns out it is the third time JTP has been on the Huck show.
2) Huck pronounces “Tito” as “Ti – Toe,” emphasizing the second “t.” When you stop to think about it, you will realize a normal person rolls it as more of a “d.”
3) Turns out the guys didn’t necessarily seem to have much chemistry. Not sure how JTP feels about immigrants, especially Hispanic immigrants. You know how tough his stance was on immigration reform.
4) The crowd, predictably, went crazy when they came out. Huck says something to the effect of “I should have you guys on every week.” Tito says, no joke, “How much would you pay?” Huck laughs it off, says something like, “whatever it is, it is more than we deserve for having the pleasure of doing this show each week with such a great audience,” but Tito and Joe were looking at him, like, “no, really, how much?”
5) JTP is now running a political watchdog website because he is “against entitlements.” Yes. He is against something alright.
So that segment ends, then there is a boring segment with one of the Little Rock Nine – Huck is clearly one of those evangelical guys who feels it is his Christian duty not to discriminate against black people, even though he is a little scared of them.
Then he says that after the break the "something Rollers," the house band, are going to play a Billy Joel classic. I tell Mami, 1) I pray Huck straps the bass on, and 2) it has to be “Still Rock and Roll.”
Yes and no. Huck does strap the bass on while explaining that everyone in the Rollers is a Fox employee, and then introduces them. Mami and I notice that he describes the guitar player as a free lance editor – not technically a Fox employee – but it was probably hard to find a guitar player. But they don’t play “Still Rock and Roll,” they go deeper in the catalog: “You May Be Right.” The young guy singer pointedly does not sell the “Hey, but it just might be a luuuuunnnnatic you’re looking for” line - just sings it straight, like he hasn’t really heard the song before, maybe because he is about 25, and the song came out in 1978, and he isn’t from Long Island.
Sunday nights at 11pm.
Best. Show. Ever.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
New Orleans 100 Heat 89
6 Thoughts
1) I give the Heat a ton of credit. On the road, back-to-back, against a top five team, down 15 early, it would have been easy to fold. But they didn't, and there they were, down 7 with the ball with 3 minutes to go. They never got over the hump, but they scrapped the whole way.
2) Part of the scrappiness was from Spoelstra. He got his first T of the season, and was clearly frustrated on some of the bump fouls called aginst Paul on plays where he intiated contact himself. When you coach Dwyane Wade, this probably isn't your strongest area of argument, but it was good to see the young fella fired up.
3) Chris Quinn can shoot it. A night after going 5-6 on triples, he was 4-7. He takes good, open shots in rhythm in a way that Daequan Cook does not yet grasp.
4) I don't think this New Orleans team can win a title. I don't know, I just feel that West and Chandler and Peja - they are all one half-level below championship caliber. I would take Utah and the Lakers in the West over them in a 7 games series, and potentially Houston as well, and I would take Boston and Cleveland in the East. I guess that makes them 5 (or 6) on my list.
5) At halftime we learned that, growing up, Mike Beasley's favorite player, the player he modeled his game after, was DerMarr Johnson. DerMarr Johnson? First of all, how young is Mike Beasley, because isn't DerMarr Johnson like 26? Here are DerMarr's career numbers:
344 career games, averages 17 minutes, 6.2 points, and 2.2 rebounds. Oh, and he's actually 28.
We also learned Mike's favorite rapper growing up was MC Ren, his favorite actor was Richard T. Jones, and he loved the McDLT. It kept the hot side hot, and the cool side cool. DerMarr Johnson? My God, was that a single parent household? Wasn't there anyone there to tell him that DerMarr Johnson might not be the guy to pattern your game after?
6) As my late grandfather Mike used to say about Joe Paterno: "God love him, but he is too old, barely coherent, and has no business coaching college football...and he is also a dear, dear friend." It was sad to see JoePa lose today, and end his chance at one more shot at a national championship. God bless JoePa, and God bless my Papa Mike in heaven.
1) I give the Heat a ton of credit. On the road, back-to-back, against a top five team, down 15 early, it would have been easy to fold. But they didn't, and there they were, down 7 with the ball with 3 minutes to go. They never got over the hump, but they scrapped the whole way.
2) Part of the scrappiness was from Spoelstra. He got his first T of the season, and was clearly frustrated on some of the bump fouls called aginst Paul on plays where he intiated contact himself. When you coach Dwyane Wade, this probably isn't your strongest area of argument, but it was good to see the young fella fired up.
3) Chris Quinn can shoot it. A night after going 5-6 on triples, he was 4-7. He takes good, open shots in rhythm in a way that Daequan Cook does not yet grasp.
4) I don't think this New Orleans team can win a title. I don't know, I just feel that West and Chandler and Peja - they are all one half-level below championship caliber. I would take Utah and the Lakers in the West over them in a 7 games series, and potentially Houston as well, and I would take Boston and Cleveland in the East. I guess that makes them 5 (or 6) on my list.
5) At halftime we learned that, growing up, Mike Beasley's favorite player, the player he modeled his game after, was DerMarr Johnson. DerMarr Johnson? First of all, how young is Mike Beasley, because isn't DerMarr Johnson like 26? Here are DerMarr's career numbers:
344 career games, averages 17 minutes, 6.2 points, and 2.2 rebounds. Oh, and he's actually 28.
We also learned Mike's favorite rapper growing up was MC Ren, his favorite actor was Richard T. Jones, and he loved the McDLT. It kept the hot side hot, and the cool side cool. DerMarr Johnson? My God, was that a single parent household? Wasn't there anyone there to tell him that DerMarr Johnson might not be the guy to pattern your game after?
6) As my late grandfather Mike used to say about Joe Paterno: "God love him, but he is too old, barely coherent, and has no business coaching college football...and he is also a dear, dear friend." It was sad to see JoePa lose today, and end his chance at one more shot at a national championship. God bless JoePa, and God bless my Papa Mike in heaven.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Heat 99 Spurs 83
6 Thoughts
1) Look, this is a bad Spurs team to begin with without Ginobili, and Tony Parker only played one quarter before spraining his ankle. Still, Miami was up 15 when Parker got hurt, and against a bad team that that they should beat, they didn't have any trouble at all, even on the road. Decent sign, and the first road win of the year.
2) Wade, again, overwhelmed an opponent athletically: 33 points, 10 rebounds, 9 assists, and 3 steals.
3) Mike Beasley, for the first time, realized the other team couldn't guard him. Made 20 footers. Called for the ball against Tim Duncan and made a fallaway over him. Turned and faced Duncan and drove by him for a score. Put the ball on the floor and looked for contact - walked to the line and made 10-10. 20 points in three quarters before sitting out most of the fourth. Also active on the defensive end with 8 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Something seemed a little wrong with him when he limped off after the third, but he did come back to play a couple minutes late.
4) When Chris Quinn hits 5 out of 6 threes against you, you probably aren't winning that game.
5) Bruce Bowen, go home and pray that Dancing with the Stars calls. It's over. And bring Kurt Thomas with you.
6) Kudos to Plumber's Nets getting a win against Detroit, and especially a 38 point explosion by Devin Harris. 24 free throws - Wadetacular!
1) Look, this is a bad Spurs team to begin with without Ginobili, and Tony Parker only played one quarter before spraining his ankle. Still, Miami was up 15 when Parker got hurt, and against a bad team that that they should beat, they didn't have any trouble at all, even on the road. Decent sign, and the first road win of the year.
2) Wade, again, overwhelmed an opponent athletically: 33 points, 10 rebounds, 9 assists, and 3 steals.
3) Mike Beasley, for the first time, realized the other team couldn't guard him. Made 20 footers. Called for the ball against Tim Duncan and made a fallaway over him. Turned and faced Duncan and drove by him for a score. Put the ball on the floor and looked for contact - walked to the line and made 10-10. 20 points in three quarters before sitting out most of the fourth. Also active on the defensive end with 8 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Something seemed a little wrong with him when he limped off after the third, but he did come back to play a couple minutes late.
4) When Chris Quinn hits 5 out of 6 threes against you, you probably aren't winning that game.
5) Bruce Bowen, go home and pray that Dancing with the Stars calls. It's over. And bring Kurt Thomas with you.
6) Kudos to Plumber's Nets getting a win against Detroit, and especially a 38 point explosion by Devin Harris. 24 free throws - Wadetacular!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Heat 106 Sixers 83
6 Thoughts
1) Two games at home, two blowout wins. Things could be better; but, they could be worse.
2) Sixers looked brutal. Elton Brand seemed particularly leaden-footed, a 4-10 night for 12 points. Even when he got two feet in the paint against a freakishly small frontcourt, he struggled to finish - lacked explosion off the floor.
3) Rookies again did their thing: Beasley with a 17 and 9 night, Chalmers with a Heat record 9 steals - he is long-armed, has quick hands, and a knack for anticipating passes.
4) But the game was dominated athletically by Dwyane Wade on a vintage Wade night. 29 points on only 15 shots, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 steals, and 3 blocks. He never let the Sixers compete in the game.
5) Wade's comment to J.J. after the game: "We're so small that no one gives us a chance to win games. But what we saw last night was that if Barack Obama can become President, then we can win games, because anything is possible." I hate to think that all the stars that have to align correctly for an Obama to become President - including the collapse of our economy - will have to continue to align for the Heat to be successful. Still, during a week of hope and change, the Heat's own William Ayers - shadowy Mark Blount - surfaced for a 9 point, 5 rebound night in 18 minutes. I guess anything really is possible.
6) One week after being dissed by the Plumber as "not that much much of an upgrade from Bobby Simmons," exiled Net Richard Jefferson dropped a 32 point, 9 assist night in a win over Washington. That is about three weeks worth of Bobby Simmons production.
1) Two games at home, two blowout wins. Things could be better; but, they could be worse.
2) Sixers looked brutal. Elton Brand seemed particularly leaden-footed, a 4-10 night for 12 points. Even when he got two feet in the paint against a freakishly small frontcourt, he struggled to finish - lacked explosion off the floor.
3) Rookies again did their thing: Beasley with a 17 and 9 night, Chalmers with a Heat record 9 steals - he is long-armed, has quick hands, and a knack for anticipating passes.
4) But the game was dominated athletically by Dwyane Wade on a vintage Wade night. 29 points on only 15 shots, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 steals, and 3 blocks. He never let the Sixers compete in the game.
5) Wade's comment to J.J. after the game: "We're so small that no one gives us a chance to win games. But what we saw last night was that if Barack Obama can become President, then we can win games, because anything is possible." I hate to think that all the stars that have to align correctly for an Obama to become President - including the collapse of our economy - will have to continue to align for the Heat to be successful. Still, during a week of hope and change, the Heat's own William Ayers - shadowy Mark Blount - surfaced for a 9 point, 5 rebound night in 18 minutes. I guess anything really is possible.
6) One week after being dissed by the Plumber as "not that much much of an upgrade from Bobby Simmons," exiled Net Richard Jefferson dropped a 32 point, 9 assist night in a win over Washington. That is about three weeks worth of Bobby Simmons production.
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