The Indecision II starring Dwight Howard...

We all know Dwight Howard the playful kid too big to grow up. Always playful never a serious moment clown of the circus shoe. Well this time Howard better put on his big boy pants as the rest of his career could be on the line based on his next decision. Several teams including the Atlanta Hawks, Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets are looking to pry D12 out of L.A.. All five teams to provide a great opportunity for D12 to make several appearances in the NBA playoffs for years to come.

Atlanta Hawks represent an opportunity for D12 to play in front of his hometown fans and family members. Which is the exact reason why I don't imagine Howard moving back to Peachtree. Howard has been adamant in the "recent" past discussing his none desire to play in the city where he grew up. Maybe its the pressure of performing in front of his hometown fans or simply its because Atlanta provides the most mental distractions. Family members and friends can be bothersome especially when the entire city claims you as a family member or close friend. Minus the emotional distractions and his recent comments, I believe the Hawks provide Howard with an opportunity to be a perennial figure in the playoffs. Hawks would have a great low post tandem teaming Al Horford with D12 both athletes combined for 34.5pts, 22.6 rebs, and 3.5blks. Danny Ferry is a smart GM responsible for surrounding LeBron James with talent in his Cleveland days and one of the few individuals James respected in the Cavaliers front office. Ferry usually makes the best decision possible and can be trusted in Atlanta's rebuilding process. Will D12 buy-in?

If their is one team that NBA fans by storm during the 2013 NBA playoffs Coach Mark Jackson's Golden State Warriors was that team. Warriors are a young hungry and relentless never say die team, full of young talented sharpshooters. The exact formula D12 loves in a team, Coach Jackson commands respect from NBA athletes young and old. Mark is the type of coach you play for because you know he would do the same for you. His a mentor which is exactly what D12 needs from time to time. A Warriors contingent is set to meet with Howard on Tuesday July 2nd the contingent includes NBA Hall of Famer Jerry West. West serves as the Warriors Executive Board Member. Rumors have already started that the Warriors are offering Bogut, Thompson or Barnes in a sign and trade deal for D12. This compromises the integrity of the Warriors offering to trade Klay Thompson. Stephen Curry, Thompson and D12 would provide a close to unstoppable line-up for NBA teams to guard. Trading Thompson would lose some of the appeal D12 would have toward the Bay Area.

Mark Cuban the always outspoken Owner of the Dallas Mavericks. Dallas represents one of the most intriguing scenarios for Howard. Dirk Nowitki, Shawn Marion and Vince Carter would still be under contract with those contracts set to expire in the near future. Last time Dallas Mavericks won a postseason game was Game 6 of the 2011 NBA Finals. Teaming Nowitzki with Tyson Chandler and a slew of sharpshooting guards and swing men. Ironically that was the last time LeBron James Miami Heat lost a postseason series.  Cuban knows how to use his personality and BIG MONEY to lure free agents and build a championship. Mavericks franchise would belong to D12 with less media scrutiny than Los Angeles the pressure would be lighter. If Dwight slips a little he won't get eaten up "just look at Tony Romo, Cowboys" Dallas fans are very forgiving. Plus Cuban is a marketing genius and Howard would still posses larger than life status in BIG D.

Sports media reports are jumping off the charts with rumors that D12 is gone, his already left L.A. for Houston. Unless you live in Howards head which can be a very drama filled and confusing location no one knows who has the upper hand. Nonetheless Howard did meet with the Houston Rockets first thing Monday  "after speaking with Lakers GM Mitch Kupchack" morning at 12:01am EST/ 9:01 PST. Rockets launched off with face to face discussions with the coveted center as NBA Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon, Yao Ming (video) and Dikembe Mutombo spoke with Howard in Los Angeles. The Rockets sold their international marketing base to Howard as Yao created a video message in China. It's true with Yao, Mutombo, and Olajuwon the Rockets have been able to thrive on the back of great center pieces. All three athletes were born overseas. The thought of having Hakeem "The Dream" Olajuwon as a mentor and teaching post moves is a dream come true an opportunity to take your game to the net level. Hakeem provided the Rockets with back to back NBA Championships in the league absence of Michael Jordan. Oh yeah almost forgot, James Harden, Chandler Parsons and Jeremy Lin are also good teammates. The possibility of teaming Harden and Howard keeps Kevin McHale up at 3am in the morning designing plays with thought after thought and endless possibilities.

Then there's the Los Angeles Lakers where everything they present can either scare you away running headed to Texas or you can embrace it and fall in love. The pressures of Hollywood along can be a double edge sword do bad and celebrities will talk about you on TMZ do great and the keys to everybody will be placed in your hands you will feel like your walking on liquid water. Movies, T.V. Shows and endorsements can make you the most popular and sought after player in NBA history. Performing under the names in the high Staples Center's rafters could also be a huge emotional kill one can fall under the pressure struggling live up to Wilt Chamberlain, Abdul-Jabbar, and Shaquille O'Neal. D12 woulld be expected to perform at a lager than life level and Howard's record shows that he fades and pouts his way under pressure. Signing with the Lakers would provide the most pressure than any other team but not resigning would show that Howard is a player not born to commit. Lakers franchise has won a NBA Championship or appeared in the NBA Finals every decade since the NBA was born If this game is truly about winning Los Angeles is the place but then again the thought of possibly failing to meet those expectations can be daunting. Los Angeles offers every opportunity D12 could have in the NBA including a 5yr $118 million contract 1yr and $30 million more than any other franchise can offer.

PREDICTION: Here's my list in reverse order (5) Warriors, (4) Hawks, (3) Mavericks, (2) Rockets, (1) Lakers. This all comes down to how much Howard feels the pressure of possible failure in Los Angeles. Movies, endorsements, TV deals, and 5yr $118 million isn't this difficult. Honestly I don't know who the better coach is Mike D' Antoni or Kevin McHale neither is a "Great or Horrible" commodity "wash". If Lakers had signed Phil Jackson this discussion doesn't exist. Jackson twitted that he expects D12 to get with the program. If the fear does exist Houston Rockets IPad presentation represents the best possibility.

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Basketball Hall of Fame 2013 "The Glove" Gary Payton

Gary Payton known as "The Glove" from his Hall of Fame worthy days with the Seattle SuperSonics has been elected to the 2013 Basketball Hall of Fame. Payton a native of California was born in 1968.He played high school ball for Skyline High School in Oakland, California. Upon graduation Payton traveled North to Corvallis Oregon where becoming one of the most prolific and decorated athletes in Oregon State University history. In 1990 Payton graced the cover of Sports Illustrated as the nations best collegiate basketball player. Payton's list of collegiate awards includes 1990 All-American, 3x All-Pac10 selection, Pac-10 1987 freshman of the year, 3x MVP Far West Classic Tournament, 9x Pac-10 player of the week, Pac-10 All-Decade Team. At one time Payton held the OSU school record in points, field goals, three point field goals, assists and steals. Leading the OSU Beavers to three NCAA Tournament appearances due to his performance Payton's name was etched in OSU Sports Hall of Fame in 1996.

Gary Payton was selected with the second overall pick by the Seattle SuperSonics in 1990. Initially Payton started on the Sonics bench playing behind Nate Mc Millan for most of his rookie campaign. The following season a small starting point guard controversy started as the Sonics had two guards capable of the starting position. Sonics coach K.C. Jones made a decision before the 1991 season began to start the younger Payton. During the first two seasons of his career Payton struggled with shooting the basketball as he averaged 8.2 points per game, (7.2pts rookie season). Through hardwork and determination Payton started to prove himself to Seattle Sonics front office, coaches and fans.

When Sonics drafted another young fella by the name of Shawn Kemp, Paytons level of played elevated to new heights. Payton and Kemp would soon form one of the best duo's in NBA history, forever known as the "Sonic Boom". Payton captivated the NBA and Seattle fan base like a Pacific Coast storm collecting nine consecutive All-NBA Teams selections spanning from 1994-2002, including  9x NBA All Star, NBA Defensive Player of Year Award in 1996 and two time Gold Medal Olympian (1996 and 2000).

In 1996 Payton led the Seattle SuperSonics to the NBA Finals against Michael Jordan's infamous Chicago Bulls. Providing a memory that will forever be known in Sonics history. Jumping ahead 3-0 Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman made videos telling Bulls fans don't tear up the city until the Bulls players arrived home. Those comments rubbed Payton the wrong way and a injured Payton urged Sonics coach George Karl to let him guard Michael Jordan for the rest of the NBA Finals after the defensive switch Sonics won games 4 and 5 in Seattle sending the series to Chicago for game six. Payton's Sonics fell short in a high pressured atmosphere for game six but Payton earned Jordan's respect and carried the city of Seattle on his shoulders. Many wondered what the outcome could have been if coach Karl had started the 95-96 NBA Finals series with the defensive player of the year Gary Payton on Michael Jordan.

The Hall of Fame career of Gary Payton would continue away from Seattle in 2003 when a five player trade between the Sonics and Bucks would seen Ray Allen to Seattle in exchange for Gary Payton. Payton's NBA career with Milawaukee Bucks lasted 28 games before forming a Hall of Fame four-some w/  Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant, and Shaquile O'Neal add Phil Jackson and you have possibly the most historic line-ups in NBA history coached by the greatest coach.The journey continued that season with Payton's second trip to the NBA Finals against the Detroit Pistons. "In all honesty the only team in NBA history capable of defeating the Lakers 2004 NBA Finals team was the Pistons defense of 2004".

Before the 2004-2005 season Gary Payton would be reluctantly part of a trade deal sending the West Coast native to the Boston Celtics. Payton, Paul Pierce and Antoine Walker captured the 04-05' Atlantic Division title before a first round versus the Indiana Pacers. During the 2005 off-season Payton now a Unrestricted Free Agent signed a one year $1.1 million deal to join former Celtics teammate Antoine Walker and NBA Lakers buddy Shaquille O'Neal with the Miami Heat. In 2006 Payton played a crucial role down the stretch for the Miami Heat. None bigger than game three of the 2006 NBA Finals with Miami down (0-2) staring at a possible three game deficit when Payton hit the game winner and series changing jump shot against the Dallas Mavericks. For Payton "three times was the charm" as the prolific point guard captured the long awaited NBA Finals trophy.

Since his retirement Payton has been a key figure in the search for returning NBA basketball back to the city of Seattle attending several functions and rallies as a key note speaker. His contributions to the NBA will forever be remembered and now honored as a member of Basketball Hall of Fame. Ceremony takes place during half-time of the 2013 NCAA National Championship.

Bonus Video: Gary Payton vs. Michael Jordan 1996 NBA Finals Game (5)

Personal Note: Living in Seattle Gary Payton was my favorite Basketball player growing up so it was a pleasure writing the article and reviewing hundreds of highlights of the man we call "The Glove". Most articles I write are done without bias but this one is special. Hope you enjoyed the highlights and timeless article. Gary Payton thank you for the memories including the picture with me and my family below... 

Picture Cousin Dean Garrett, Grandmama (RIP), Cousin Brandon Bishop (back), Brother Burre Collins and  me (Light Skinned dude). One of the Greatest moments of my childhood.... Thanks!! 

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Los Angeles Lakers Guarantee 2013 NBA Playoffs

Los Angeles Lakers one of the most storied franchises in American sports history are currently on the outside looking in when it comes to the NBA playoff picture. Despite one of the best rosters in the NBA the Lakers are fighting to sniff the NBA playoffs. As NBA fans and media question the Lakers ability to turn things around over the later portion of the season Dwight Howard, Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash remain confident of a NBA playoff appearance. When discussing the issue in a recent Sports Illustrated interview Kobe Bryant said "It's not a question of if we make the playoffs. We will,” Bold statement by the NBA's worldwide spokesperson as #24 has never been a individual short on confidence or will. Seeing the glass more than half-full is the way Bryant has always viewed life in the NBA.  After Bryant's playoff guarantee fellow teammates Nash and Howard were asked about the statement and responded "Yeah, I guarantee it, too," Nash said and Howard responded with "I'm not going to sit up here and say, 'No, we're not going to make it,' " Howard said. "We got to have faith, and if we don't, we're not going to make it, but I believe that we're going to turn this around and we're going to be great."

The Lakers currently sit 3 1/2 games behind the James Harden led Houston Rockets and sit 4 1/2 games outside of 7th place Utah Jazz. Los Angeles Lakers 27-29 are 7-3 over their last 10 games and starting to click on the court. Howard seems to have his explosive bounce and first step back after a nagging shoulder and back injuries. While a lot of media focus surrounding the NBA's best big man remains on what he will do during the upcoming off season. General Manager Mitch Kupchak is confident that Howard is the center piece and future of the Los Angeles Lakers. With the NBA trade deadline passed and gone Howard seems more inclined to stay in Los Angeles. The relationship between Howard and Kupchak is based on trust "He just told me to trust him, so I’m going to trust him and go out there every night, play as hard as I can" Howard said.

 

Now with chemistry starting to mesh and injuries to Nash and Howard on the mends the focus for the Lakers is making the playoffs. Trust is no longer a issue as the Lakers stars are starting to align, the only issue is timing. Do the Lakers have enough time to make a true run at the NBA playoffs, with 26 games remaining in the 2012-2013 season? The passing of Owner Dr. Jerry Buss gives the Lakers a sense of urgency to live up to the legacy and tradition started by the late owner who quoted the reason he bought the Lakers was to surpass the Boston Celtics. The day after his passing the Lakers dismantled the Celtics in his honor and a NBA Championship in 2013 places the franchise at 17 Championships tying the Celtics.  Dr. Buss will be truly missed.....

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NBA Mid-Season Report: Wild Roller Coaster Full of Injuries

     If you been following the NBA this season it has been a roller coaster of high-fives and disappointments . Golden State Warriors have been a great example of the NBA ride I am determined to point out. Riddled with injuries (Andrew Bogut) Mark Jackson's club has been to the top of the mountain and now heading into the All-Star break losing five games in a row the Warriors have essentially turned back into pumpkins at the stroke of midnight. Los Angeles Lakers front office has been horrible, terrible, implorable down right ugly. First the disrespectful firing of Mike Brown, the shady under cut move to dismiss the great Phil Jackson to hire the Big Apple destroyer in Mike D'Antoni. Then the injury bug started spreading around like the plague in the Lakers locker room down goes Nash, then D. Howard and now Gasol ouch! Karma from the Zen Master?

     In the Eastern Conference Brooklyn Nets started off hot in their new surroundings appearing to emerge as early  NBA Finals contenders and are now looking like a simple NBA playoff team. While making the playoffs is a great stride for the Nets franchise Joe Johnson, Deron Williams, Brook Lopez and Gerald Wallace weren't assembled to be a mere Eastern Conference playoff team they were meshed together to challenge the Miami Heat. Boston Celtics bit the injury bug hard Rondo partially torn right knee ACL out for the season, then the "Brazilian blur" Rondo's point guard replacement Leandro Barbosa goes out with a torn left ACL. This after the Celtics proved they had enough heart to survive without Rondo on the court winning seven contest in a row.

     Take a sharp look at this seasons NBA injury laundry  list and it reads like a who's who of the NBA or an All Star lineup. Derrick Rose*, Danny Granger, Anderson Varejao, Joakim Noah, Rajon Rondo, Pau Gasol, Mo Williams, Chris Kaman, Chris Paul, Chauncey Billups, Andrei Kirilenko, Andrew Bynum, Andrea Bargnani, Amare' Stoudemire, Kevin Love and more. All NBA players listed have missed significant time with injuries this season.

Hopefully the injury plague will come to an end after the All Star break. Unfortunately the roller coaster of rising and falling NBA teams will undoubtedly continue as playoff teams in both the Western and Eastern Conference are not etched in stone. I still believe Toronto and Philadelphia have an opportunity to slide into the 8th spot with Milwaukee Bucks currently on a down slide. While Kobe and the Lakers will not go quietly....

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Brooklyn Nets: Phil Jackson Power, Money and a Legacy

Drafted by the New York Knicks in the 2nd round of the NBA Draft 1967. Phil Jackson was a member of two NBA Championships in the "Big Apple" 1970 and 1973 as a top reserve member off the bench. These days in Phil Jackson's NBA career are lesser known by many, Phil even missed the 1970 NBA Championship photo shoot.

 What is known to a greater extent is the coaching prowess and intelligence that helped meta-morph and catapult the careers of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal to new levels.  Hired by the Chicago Bulls as an assistant coach under Doug Collins in 1987. In 1989 after the departure of Collins, Jackson was promoted to head coach. From  1989 - 1998 Jackson coached the Bulls to two "three-peats" equaling six NBA Championships in a nine year span. The greatest span in modern NBA franchise history. 

First three-peat included the Bulls knocking off arch nemesis Detroit Pistons. The only franchise standing between the Chicago Bulls and the NBA Championship.  Detroit Pistons were the bullies and Phil Jackson was the young coach with the ultra talented NBA superstar Michael Jordan. When the "Bad Boys" Pistons implemented the famed Jordan Rules, Jackson responded with the Triangle Offense a modified version of the Triple Post Offense ala University Southern California and Basketball Hall of Fame coach Sam Barry. 
Phil Jackson's and Bulls assistant Tex Winter "Triangle offense" produced NBA Championship victories against Magic Johnson and the Lakers, Clyde Drexler's Portland Trailblazers and Charles Barkley high octane Phoenix Suns.  

During the off-season of 1997- 1998 off season tensions and contractual arguments grew between Bulls GM Jerry Krause and Phil Jackson. Tensions led to Krause announcing prior to the season that Jackson would not be returning to the Chicago Bulls "I don't care if it's 82-and-0 this year, you're fucking gone." Krause told Jackson. The Bulls did not finish 82-0 but the final season of the Jordan era concluded in dramatic fashion with the Bulls defeating Karl Malone and John Stockton's Utah Jazz marking NBA Championship number six. 

After retiring for a season Phil Jackson took his talents to Hollywood joining the Los Angeles Lakers earning roughly $6 million per season to maintain the ego's of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal. In the first season Jackson coached Lakers to 65-17 regular season and to the NBA Finals defeating the Indiana Pacers this was only the beginning to Jackson's third NBA Finals "three peat" as the Lakers won two additional NBA titles versus Philadelphia 76ers (2001) and New Jersey Nets (2002). 

Jackson's departure from Los Angeles after the 2003-2004 season included several spats. Spat #1 Contract agreement Jackson was looking to double his salary from $6 mil to $12 mil. Spat #2 Kobe Bryant it is well documented that Kobe was a hot head a "me-me first player" usually deviating from the Triangle Offense to play one on five basketball against the other team. Spat issue #3 the departure of Shaq when the Lakers traded the greatest center in NBA history to the Miami Heat the writing was drying on the wall.  Immediately following his departure the Lakers and Bryant fell hard and during the 2005 season the Lakers rehired Jackson.  

The period from 2005-2007 presented Jackson with many obstacles the Lakers roster was mediocre at best. Even with a squad of Smush Parker and Kwame Brown Jackson was still able to coach Lakers to two playoff appearances. During 2007-2008 season LA Lakers and Memphis Grizzlies made a blockbuster trade as Lakers obtained Pau Gasol. With two stars to run the triangle Jackson was able to produce three more trips to the NBA Finals. Though it was not Jackson's usual trifecta Lakers won two out of three NBA Finals losing and then winning against the Boston Celtics and defeating Orlando Magic. 

Look over Jackson's career and you will notice several attributes and key elements first his a well disciplined winner prepared to handle any challenge. Only challenges he encountered included greedy, zealous, power hungry GM and owners the other issue was Kobe Bryant. 

Jackson understands his worth and command value it would take at least a minimum of $15 mil per season to pry Jackson out of retirement. Nets owner Mikhail Dmitrievitch Prokhorov Russian Billionaire and  political figure has no problem shelling out $15 million per season. 

Second major issue was the behavior of Bryant causing a distraction so damaging Jackson requested to Lakers ownership and management that Bryant be traded. This hints to Deron Williams the "Coach Killer" who could not understand or get along with NBA Coaching legend Jerry Sloan causing the longest tenured coach in American Major League sports to retire from his coaching post with the Utah Jazz. Over two decades of coaching history. Does Jackson want to inherit the "Coach Killer"? 

Third point of notice every Jackson team had a superstar a player that was at the top of the league in individual talent. While the Nets have a good unit Williams and Joe Johnson will never be mistaken for Jordan or Bryant.

Fourth Point does destroying Jackson's Legacy come with a price tag? It is often the coach looking for work with a organization that is worth more than the individual employee. In this case Jackson has 11 NBA Championship rings his legacy is remarkable and that may be worth than what the Nets can offer the Zen Master to tarnish his legacy. Brooklyn Nets are not a true threat to the NBA Championship the organization has zero, yes zero NBA Championships and only four division titles. Why would Jackson bring his legacy to Brooklyn?

Why Would Jackson Bring His Legacy to Brooklyn? Phil  Jackson is a Kingpin when it comes to coaching in the NBA and a Kingpin only cares about power. How much is Prokorhov willing to grant Jackson could be the key to any serious negotiations.... 

Dwight Howard Saga: Houston Wants a Problem!

How important is it for NBA teams to work a deal for Dwight Howard? Howard has gone on record quoting that the only team he wanted to play for was the "Brooklyn Nets". Last season Howard said he would not resign with the Lakers or Rockets if traded to Los Angeles or Houston. Now the Brooklyn Nets Howard's preferred choice has decided to move away from the "circus show" that is Dwight Howard and the merry go round Barnum and Bailey show he has created. 

This brings me to this point, it's a sad day when a franchise player single handily destroys a NBA franchise by pity patting and pouting about where they are playing. Especially after signing an extension with the franchise less that 4 months ago.So has Dwight Howard put himself in position where fans in Orlando are read to boo him and say enough is enough? Has Howard destroyed his reputation as a player will the NBA market for Howard start to reflect his personality issues? 

Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey has thrown in all his chips including the future of the franchise to nab "SuperMan" out of Orlando. Houston traded PG Kyle Lowry to Toronto and amnestied Luis Scola. Rockets have simply mortgaged the franchise in hopes of landing Dwight Howard but is he worth the cost? Imagine the trade occurs and Howard is disgruntled in Houston decides to walk away after the 2012-2013 season and enter free agency next summer. Plain and simple Howard is not worth the cost of blowing up a franchise just to watch him walk away after one season. Houston Do You Really Want A Problem?

When the 2012 NBA off season concludes Dwight Howard could end up as the most hated man in the NBA based on his un-SuperMan like attitude. Orlando Magic should take the best deal available and let Howard become some other Owner or GM's problem child. Orlando trade Howard cut your ties let him go if Rockets are willing to send over young talent and future lottery picks take it. Rebuild the franchise get rid of the clown with the size 18 buffalo shoes.

For the Houston Rockets this could be the worst deal in NBA history. Some pundits have compared the gutting of the Rockets roster to the gutting of the Heat in 2011. Seriously stop, the Miami Heat was a team gutting their roster for 2 Hall of Famers and 1 All Star with guaranteed long term contracts with a NBA Championship to follow. Howard your no LeBron James or Dwayne Wade and NBA GM's and Owners should stay away from the circus show you have created. Superman has already lost the city/burrough of Brooklyn. Dwight Howard what franchise will he destroy next? I guess Houston Seriously Wants a Problem...

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NBA Off Season 2013...

The NBA Finals are over LeBron James, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh have ushered in a new era ready to take the NBA to a new level. Now the shift occurs the "BIG BOOM" to the NBA 's new Miami Heat era has exploded and now there are casualties. NBA players are on the move and NBA franchises including the L.A. Lakers and Brooklyn Nets are creating tidal waves in free agency. As the casualties fall and NBA empires young and old are rebuilt to compete in the NBA's new market defectors have also changed sides. Ray Allen once a Boston Celtic general "the only player to shake the hands of Miami Heat players after game 7 in Miami" has agreed to a new deal in South Beach.


Steve Nash signs with rival Lakers creating a MVP back court with Kobe Bryant. Move puts Lakers into prime position to challenge OKC Thunder for Western Conference supremacy. Nash trade also keeps Bynum and Gasol in L.A. giving the "Purple and Gold" brass an opportunity to keep most of the Lakers "Boom or Buss" plans intact.


New York Knicks sign Jason Kidd believing the veteran point guard can help the trio of Carmelo, Chandler and Stoudemire mesh on the basketball court. Kidd says he signed to help with the maturation process of Jeremy Lin. Lin is currently being pursued heavily by the Houston Rockets.


Los Angeles Clippers are progressively moving forward during the off season adding Jamal Crawford and Lamar Odom two of the best sixth man in the NBA over the past 4-5 years. Clippers re-signed Chauncey Billups creating possibly the deepest roster in the NBA. Clippers are ready to challenge the Thunder this season youth, athleticism, veteran sharp shooting and excellent inside paint presence will keep the Clippers in the race in 2013.


Brooklyn Nets acquired Joe Johnson in a big trade deal keeping franchise "face" Deron Williams in a Brooklyn Nets uniform. The re-signing of Gerald Wallace plays a significant role in the movement of the Nets moving forward. Don't look now but Nets have enough pieces with Brook Lopez serving as a dominant presence to challenge to Miami Heat for the next several seasons.


 Ray Allen to Miami many "NorEasters" believe     Allen turned red coat and ran to the side of the enemy. Only issue the Celtics treated Allen like an after thought during his last season in Boston. Canceled trades to Memphis and bickering with team PG Rajon Rondo created a rift that could not be repaired. Kevin Garnett returned to Boston with a 3yr $34million contract while the Celtics offered Allen a 2yr $12 million contract big difference. Celtics shook hands with PG/SG Jason Terry prior to Allen's decision. Yes, Allen was offered more cash from the Celtics but something tells me this is personal and Allen wants to stick it to the Celtics.


Miami Heat made the landscape of the NBA shift to a new era. Franchises jumping on board and moving forward will have a chance to compete. Organizations not sitting on the sidelines will continue in mediocrity. Example Brookyln Nets in / Orlando Magic out...


So what are we to expect, what will be the next fall out as we turn to the next chapter in the NBA. Here's a few thoughts.


1.) Expect the Brooklyn Nets to vastly improve (automatic dark horse..)
2.) Boston Celtics v. Miami Heat rival will intensify (Bad Blood..)
3.) Western Conference Thunder, Lakers, Spurs, and Clippers one of these four teams are NBA Finals bound 2013...
4.) Dwight Howard the wait will continue, will he explode psychologically or will Orlando ship him out...


Note: Yes I know a NorEaster is a generally a term used for snowstorms duh....

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Kobe Bryant vs. Derek Fisher: The Hunt for Six!

Kobe Bryant the "Greatest Lakers" of all time confessed by both Magic Johnson and Shaquille O'neal is on a quest to capture his 6th NBA Finals Championship. Kobe Bryant was drafted in the 1996 NBA Draft "Charlotte Hornets" and debuted in his first NBA game November 3rd 1996 versus the Minnesota Timberwolves. Kobe was scoreless in his NBA debut logging 6 minutes of play but over the next 15 years his career would go on to be the story of legends. The all time Lakers great is looking to join Michael Jordan with 6 rings and win more Championships than any player in the post Jordan Era.

Kobe Bryant "Black Mamba" is not the only player in the NBA seeking his sixth NBA championship ring. Long time friend and former Lakers teammate Derek Fisher now of the Oklahoma City Thunder is quietly on a mission of his own. Fisher drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers 24th overall in the 1996 NBA Draft has won 5 NBA  Championships and has been a key member of the Lakers last 5 championship banners hanging in Staples Center.

Fisher has also played for the Golden State Warriors and Utah Jazz. In both stints Fisher has been unable to win an NBA championship without playing next to his 1996 rookie teammate Kobe Bryant. Ditto for the Black Mamba for years Kobe and Fisher have meshed together like a Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich. "No one just eats a Jelly Sandwich" the two players together have produced 7 trips to the NBA Finals and won 5 NBA championship rings since 2001.


Now in the 2012 NBA playoffs the two compadres will be known enemies each searching for their sixth NBA championship. Ask Kobe about the subject and he will probably deny he ever thinks about it "it's just a question in the wind"  Well hopefully those winds are the Santa Ana winds that tend to blow through the greater Los Angeles area instead of the Thundering thud from Oklahoma City. We all know that some where deep inside of the competitive mind of Kobe Bryant he knows the real score is 5-5. Not only must he make a statement against up and coming OKC Thunder but he wants to remain the best in every way possible and that includes receiving his sixth ring before Fisher.

In the main plot there's the L.A. Lakers vs. OKC Thunder in the sub plot there's Kevin Durant vs. Kobe Bryant but not on the list, not on the club brochures or team websites is the battle from within a small tug o' war between two very close friends. The Race to 6            has begun!

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2012 NBA Playoffs Opening Weekend: Wild, Crazy and Unpredictable

When it comes to the NBA playoffs the journey of a champion is a destiny unknown. Warriors battling on a hardwood floor is tales of folklore. Men battling for the one opportunity to be the best and race to that finish line we all call the NBA Finals.

During the NBA Playoffs arguments become testy, emotions take more rides than a 15 yr old at an amusement park. Every player eager to showcase their knowledge, skill and athletic talents against the worlds best competitors. NBA playoff moments are more memorable than an 82 or 66 game regular season. The playoffs represent the moment when "Boy's become Men" Earvin becomes Magic, Bird becomes Legend, Michael Jordan turns into Greatness and Kobe becomes the Black Mamba. What's success, beyond success, beyond success Michael Jordan winning the 1998 NBA Finals.

NBA playoffs is the time of year when Linkin Park's "Burn it Down" blares in the speakers and Kanye West (2011 playoff theme) "All of The Lights" goes full stage. Regular season excuses get "Burned" and all that matters from late April until mid June is winning.

The 2012 NBA Playoffs has already provided Wild, Crazy and Unpredictable moments and terrible tragedies. Playoff atmosphere started April 22nd the weekend before the NBA playoffs when the Los Angeles Lakers hosted the Oklahoma City Thunder.During the game Metta World Peace landed a vicious elbow on the side of James Hardens head and the NBA script continues to be unpredictable.

Opening weekend began with a tragic phantom injury to 2011 NBA MVP Derrick Rose possibly the most unexplained disappointing injury in NBA playoff history and an emotional buzzer beater by Kevin Durant over the outstretched arms of Shawn Marion and the 2011 defending NBA Champion Dallas Mavericks. L.A. Lakers Andrew Bynum registered 10 Blocks against the Denver "midgets" Nuggets in a historic performance becoming only the second player in playoff history to record at least 10pts, 10rebs and 10 blks in a NBA playoff game. Boston Celtics Rajon Rondo found his inner Kevin Hart chest bumping referee Marc Davis. Then in a late night affair the Memphis Grizzlies totally collapsed like a "ton of bricks" against the Los Angeles Clippers blowing a 27 point lead.

With all of the mayhem already displayed during the 2012 NBA playoffs and the condensed pressure of the 66 game regular season schedule life in the NBA has become incalculable. Thus the Miami Heat are still the heavy odd on favorite to represent the Eastern Conference in the 2012 NBA Finals and the Western Conference continues to be a toss up between the Associations best NBA teams. So after a Wild, Crazy and Unpredictable opening playoff weekend full of mayhem, who will when the NBA Finals??

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Metta World Peace Mentally Competitive and Annoyed

Call me old school, call me an 1980's baby, call me a U.S. Veteran that appreciates hard work and understands the rigors of performing at high a level competitively. Call me a fan of the old Detroit 'Bad Boys",and New York Knicks vs. Miami Heat of the 1997 brawl but don't call me a fan of Kermit Washington or Latrell Sprewell. Don't call me a fan of players or coaches full of intent or malicious bounties.

The acts of the player formally known as Ron Artest fall into a category of it's own. No Metta World Peace's decision was not peaceful or fit for a Disney movie but neither was Alonzo Mourning's and Larry Johnson's actions. MWP actions are missed understood after reviewing the image at normal speed not the slowed down version presented by media outlets across America painting MWP into a "Mike Tyson killer" I noticed two elements.

What we witnessed was a combination of competitiveness and a player who deals with mental illness. It's no secret Ron Artest has been seen by Dr. Nicole Miller. After winning the NBA Finals in 2010 Ron Artest thanked Dr. Miller for her psychiatric help. In a heightened moment of Artest's life he thanked his "Mental Health Doctor" that's big news don't miss the message. During the 2011 season Ron Artest was named "NBA Citizen of the Year" for donating his time to Mental Health Charities and helping others with mental conditions. Not only was Artest acknowledging his condition but the NBA naming him citizen of the year was acknowledging his condition as well.

On September 16th 2011 Ron Artest changed his name to Metta World Peace, when a man with a mental condition changes his name usually people say something about it or stop the individual. I understand the whole World B. Free issue but I think we missed the message. I am not calling Ron Artest "Sybil" but sometimes when we think we have done so good in life in a particular issue of weakness as humans we tend to relax on the treatment that got us to a successful point in our lives. Taking personal mental treatment for granted and opting to become more of a spokesperson instead of a patient.

Back to NBA basketball, secondly what we saw was two teams on the collision course of becoming bitter rivals. The Lakers still competing to hold on as NBA title contenders versus the young Lions of the NBA seething to prove they are the new team on the block. Competitive juices started flowing James Harden was "yappin" talking as he usually does being annoying in the ears of MWP and Kobe Bryant. Positioning his body in ways to make a player frustrated. MWP was feeling good dunking and stealing the ball, playing his best basketball since donning a Lakers uniform. Celebrating after a momentum changing dunk and James Harden decided to be annoying and it was at that one split second "Ron Artest" jumped out of the body of Metta World Peace "get the message" this was not malice. In the NBA fans have seen much"worse"

Reality check... Metta play's basketball on television not in his backyard. "Go to any park in America on a Saturday were local citizens play basketball and watch the frustration on the court". World Peace was celebrating and the most annoying player on the court purposely decided to get in the way. This was a man who's issues were dormant like a volcano (every now and then they spill ash) but the NBA knows this right. In the heat of the moment Metta World Peace was Mentally Competitive and Annoyed

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Los Angeles Lakers: Andrew Bynum the Revolution is NOW!!!

Finally his here, finally his arrived after 6 years in the NBA Shaquille O'neals heir apparent has arrived to the big stage. Andrew Bynum the Los Angeles Lakers Center is starting to shown signs of a young budding SuperStar.


During the lockout shortened NBA 66 game season Andrew Bynum was linked to several blown NBA trades involving Chris Paul and Dwight Howard. Bynum stayed honest while dealing with the possible NBA trade scenarios.  In a ESPN  interview Bynum responded to the rumors saying  "I think Dwight is a great player and obviously if the Lakers can get him for the right deal, it would be worthwhile," Bynum said after a early season Lakers' film session . "But, if they want too much [in return], it won't go through." 



During the 2011 NBA offseason rumors swirled in circles about Bynum privately wanting his own team. Bynum claims that the rumor was false "I never said anything like that," Bynum told ESPNLosAngeles.com 

Regardless of the rumors the new Bynum has arrived in Lakerland playing like a NBA All Star proving he belongs in Los Angeles Lakers Purple and Gold.  The NBA 2012 season has been terrific for Bynum averaging career highs 18.4 pts, and 12.2 rebs. Bynums attitude has come off more arrogant and cocky at times with reporter comments but the BIG DUDE is currently going through a NBA All Star maturation. Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and most of the NBA greats displayed a side of arrogance once they recognized their true NBA basketball potential.  For Bynum the light to the tunnel is finally on he is tapping into his future NBA greatness.  

 Many will syill judge Bynum and feel the NBA All Star has taken too long to become a true force. For years media personnel thought Bynum was too soft under the rim and then during the 2010-2011 NBA playoff Bynum exploded sending J.J. Barea flying, Bynum was seething as the Lakers unraveled in a season ending defeat to the Dallas Mavericks. 


Since tossing J.J. Barea, Bynum has become an NBA monster. The Lakers now posses a BIG 3 consisting of Bynum, Pau Gasol and Kobe Bryant. The combination has been to 3 NBA Finals and won 2 NBA Championships.

As Kobe's body starts to wind down from years of NBA competition, Bynum has become more dominant. While Kobe missed a few games suffering from an injured shin Bynum has taken control averaging close to 20 pts and 20 rebs with out Kobe on the floor. The BIG DUDE's outstanding play has allowed Kobe to rest his injuries this season. 


Bynum's new attitude is great for the Lakers. Why is this important? because Bynum represents the next generational step from Kobe. At the age of 24 Bynum's career projectory is starting to climb and with 2 NBA Championships under his belt his set to win not 1, not 2, not 3, not 4, not 5 you get the picture the Lakers and the BIG DUDE could be looking at future multiple NBA Championship rings. 


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Inside view of the 2012 NBA Playoff Race...

With a month left until the NBA playoffs we take a look at the top five teams that have a chance to make a significant impact towards the NBA Finals. Plus a look at our true NBA playoff dark horse.

1.) San Antonio Spurs: Overall San Antonio has the coaching, talent and youthfulness to make a deep playoff run. Tony Parker, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobli, Stephen Jackson, De Juan Blair, Kawhli Leonard, and Danny Green are just a few names who lead Greg Popovich's talent latent team.

Problem: Defense is not the same defense fans are accustomed to in San Antonio. Greg Popovich and the Spurs are relying more on their offense this season versus their defense and Duncan is entering his twilight years.

2.) Miami Heat: How can you deny LeBron James, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh. Miami Heat have been the odd on favorites to win the NBA Finals since losing an heart breaker last season in the NBA Finals to the Dallas Mavericks. LeBron James is the heavy favorite to win league MVP posting some of the best all around numbers in league history w/ 28 pts, 8 rebs, 7 ast, 2 stls and 1 block . Miami Heat's BIG 3 has been exciting to watch this season averaging over 100 pts.

Problem: Defensively the Miami Heat are vulnerable against larger more aggressive teams in the post. Joel Anthony has become an offensive liability. The addition of Ronnie Turiaf should help boaster the paint for the Miami Heat but the team currently has no answer in the middle.

3.) Oklahoma City Thunder: Should probably be ranked #2 on this list if Kevin Durant and company played in the Eastern Conference they would be odd on favorites to represent the conference. Russell Westbrook receives a lot of unwarranted attention for his play but OKC coaching staff and fans love the point guard. Sixth man of the year James Harden is playing like an all star averaging 16 pts, 4 rebs and 3 ast.

Problem: Turnovers have been an Achilles heel for the Thunder 15.3% of their possessions end in turnovers which is hurting their assists as well. A team with the likes Westbrook should not fail in assists and turnovers.

4.)  Chicago Bulls: Carlos Boozer and Luol Deng lead a balanced attack on both offense and defense for Da Bulls!.  Boozer who was struggling last season has rebounded and has become a vocal leader for the Chicago Bulls. Chicago's defense is tops in the NBA allowing only 89.1 pts per contest and the Bulls control the defensive and offensive glass with a combined total of 55 rebs per game. Bulls regular season record of 40-11 is #1 in the NBA.

Problem: Derrick Rose 2010-2011 NBA MVP has been hampered by a bad groin injury. While the Bulls have managed to stay consistent without Rose during the season the playoffs are a different ball game. The Bulls playoff potential rest on the health of Rose.

5.) Los Angeles Lakers: Kobe, Kobe and more Kobe his leading the NBA in scoring 28.9 pts per game.. Unfortunately The Lakers have been shaky all year but yet manage to be excellent at Staples Center where they are 20-4. Los Angeles traded away two mainstays in Derek Fisher and Lamar Odom changing the landscape of the basketball team. The addition of Ramon Sessions should help at the point guard position, finally a player that can handle the ball outside of the hands of Kobe Bryant. Bynum has been playing at an All Star level and his confidence in the post has increased.

Problem: Kobe, Kobe and more Kobe. Sometimes his offensive struggles can be harmful to the flow of the game which is why Mike Brown pulled the chair on him recently against the Memphis Grizzlies. Kobe has to trust his teammates more. The Lakers are terrible on the road this season playing below .500 away from Staples.

Dark Horse:


Indiana Pacers and Orlando Magic: Orlando Magic dark horse but possibly not daring enough the Indiana Pacers on the other hand represent everything a dark horse should be young, athletic and no one believes them yet.

Dark Horse checklist:
Possible NBA Superstar- Danny Granger check.
Point Guard: Darren Collison check.
Inside outside game: Collison, Roy Hibbert and David West check.
Bench: Sixth Man George Hill and Tyler Hansbrough check mate...

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Los Angeles Lakers: For Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher Breaking Up is Hard to do...

Playing in the NBA for 15 years, you've won 5 Championships been to 7 NBA Finals. You look around the locker room noticing all the reporters standing around in their usual format asking questions to teammates sitting at their locker. You over hear a few questions and answers being thrown around between players and media staff and then it hits you, the moment you notice your childhood (rookie) friend is missing. Things start to become a little bit more blurry as the new coach enters the locker room and he approaches you, yes the rumors are true. The teammate you knew and loved for 15 years is gone, the team co-captain, heart and soul has been traded. Man breaking up is hard to do....

Kobe Bryant has won 5 Championships in the NBA 1 with the basketball player formerly known as Ron Artest, 2 with Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum, and 3 with the most dominating "Big Man" to ever play the game Shaquille O'Neal. Yet, none of those 5 Championships could have been accomplished without one of the most clutch players in Lakers history Derek Fisher. 

Derek and Kobe came to the Lakers the Summer of 1996, they were both rookies playing together in the back court entrusted with wearing the historic Purple and Gold of the Los Angeles Lakers. Derek was never an NBA All-Star and he didn't have to be. Derek Fisher was more than an All-Star he was a Champion, a player his teammates could depend on to make tough shots and smart decisions. He ran Phil Jackson's Triangle offense better than any point guard in Phil's coaching history.

When Kobe was double teamed and the Lakers needed a big shot Derek used his leadership and championship pedigree to knock down the big one's. If Kobe's game on the court was off, Derek was the only one with enough determination to get in Kobe's ear. Kobe and Derek's relationship meshed like the "Purple and Gold" on their jersey's. Derek was more than just a back court roommate of Kobe on the court, he was his best friend. 

One day Derek's jersey will join the highly regarded panel of West, Chamberlain, Baylor, Abdul-Jabbar, Johnson, Worthy, Goodrich, O'Neal (next season) and Lakers legendary announcer Chuck Hearn hanging from the rafters of the Staples Center. Next to Derek's #2 jersey will be Kobe's #24. The summer of 1996 will always be remembered as the summer the Lakers created a 5x Championship back court combining the super uber talented skills of Kobe with the professional leadership of Derek Fisher. 

For nearly 15 years, Kobe has been the on court talent and Derek has been the locker room voice of the Los Angeles Lakers. Now separated due to time but forever remembered and meshed in the Purple and Gold of the historic Los Angeles Lakers.