Just another series for Miami Heat history! #Pacers #Heat

NBA Eastern Conference Finals have the defending NBA Champion Miami Heat facing their most stifling opponent of the 2013 NBA playoffs. The Indiana Pacers who most analyst are casually looking over has amassed the best defense in the Eastern Conference. David West and Roy Hibbert dominate the boards and control the paint both on defense and offense for the Pacers.

Pacers posses the NBA's best defense with young talent at both the guard and forward positions. Paul George NBA's Most Improved Player faces the associations reigning MVP LeBron James in a playoff series key match up. During the regular season George averaged 18pts, 7rebs, and 4.3 ast with heavy face time against arguably the leagues best player. It's a challenge that can be overwhelming  for the young 23yr old and first time NBA All Star. George's number one attribute will be on the defensive side of ball, "He's very athletic, with long arms and his anticipation is very good" according to James. George did a masterful job versus Carmelo Anthony in the previous playoff series limiting Anthony to 4pts in the 4th quarter. What's more impressive is the fact George held Anthony without a field goal in the 4th Qtr of games 3 and 4. As LeBron James is quick to mention "He also has a lot of help behind him they're the #1 defense for a reason".

Is Indiana's size and strength enough to provide a cold front and scour away the heat? Earlier this season I provided an article highlighting every reason why the Pacers were the only team in the Eastern Conference built to take advantage of the Heats weaknesses link provided below. Just to give a quick insight the Miami Heat are inefficient in two areas total team rebounding and offensive boards. Pacers excel in both areas ranked among the best in the association.  By the numbers Heat average 46.7 rebs per game vs Pacers 54.8 rebs per contest. Heat garner 8.3 offensive boards per game in comparison to Pacers 12.8 per. contest.

Outside of rebounding and defensive numbers Pacers offense is polar opposite from the Dwayne Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh led Miami Heat offense. Pacers offense is insufficient at times with long delays between baskets leading to one of NBA's worst (47.7%) FG efficient offenses. In comparisons the Heats 2012-2013 NBA regular season FG efficiency rate was 55.1% . Big difference like comparing apples to oranges.

Last seasons playoff series between Pacers and Heat was testy Heat took an early 1-0 lead with Pacers former NBA executive calling the Pacers players soft. The young Pacers responded winning games 2 and 3 in the series. In the 2012 playoff series were unforgettable moments starting Lance Stephenson's choke signal toward James in game 3 and the before game locker room search conducted by Juwan Howard.
This time around in the Eastern Conference Finals we should expect a more mature Lance Stephenson. Who recently had a 25 pt, 10 reb performance to finish off the New York Knicks in game 6.

Prediction: Miami Heat in 6 just too many offensive weapons and dominating figures for the Pacers to handle. Heat had awake up call versus the Chicago Bulls in the semi-finals and I think Frank Vogel was correct "Heat are just the next team in the Pacers way". Yes, I agree with the statement but I frankly don't see eye to eye with Vogel's outcome. To me it's "Just another series for Miami Heat history"!

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Clenaure Carter is now the Writer for http://www.football.com covering Georgia Tech Football

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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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Dethroning the Champs: Miami Heat "Rules"

The NBA season has been great so far watching players, coaches and ultimately NBA franchises get ready for what we call the stretch run of the NBA season. As teams fight for a spot in the NBA playoffs there is one common denominator, one purpose and that is winning the NBA Championship. The trade deadline has passed and the blockbuster trades never materialized. Therefore the DNA of your favorite team is already set; remember the phrase "They are who we Thought they were". Well its true barring major injuries or dramatic increase in player level the type of dramatic increase that turns Joe Johnson into Reggie Miller  NBA teams are set.

Like the great Ric Flair once said "In order to be the man you have to be the man" and the 2011-2012 NBA Champion Miami Heat are currently storming the NBA on a 12 game winning streak. Dwayne Wade "W.O.W" or Way Of Wade is taking over 4th quarters and the Miami Heat look primed to defend their NBA Championship. So it’s not a matter of who will make the playoffs in the Eastern Conference, it’s who has the better shot of defeating the Miami Heat in the postseason. In the end it comes down to matching strengths versus weaknesses.

Deep analysis of the Miami Heat shows glaring holes in several categories 46.6 is the number of rebounds the Heat average per game ranking 30th in the NBA. Miami's Offensive rebounding percentage 22.5% allows opposing NBA teams to grab at least 77.5% of Miami's missed shots on the boards. Heat average a total of 8.5 offensive rebounds tied 28th with the Boston Celtics in the NBA worst in the Eastern Conference. Miami is able to combat these stats with an Effective 54.9% FG best in the NBA and low turnover rate of 12.9%. Miami's perfect storm would be a team that can apply pressure on defense forcing turnovers while controlling the glass. Perimeter and Paint defensive oriented teams with an effective offensive system. Reasons why the Boston Celtics with Rajon Rondo normally give the Miami Heat great intense battles.

Contrary to belief the Miami Heat only excel greatly in three out of eighteen major/sub stat categories Points per Game 103.9, Turnover % 12.9 and Steals 8.7. Heats moderately perform in two major stat categories Point Differential +7.1 and Effective FG% 54.9. Miami is great at making up their flaws in the post offensively with great perimeter play as well last season the Heat shot 35.9% from three point range this number drastically increased in the NBA playoffs against the OKC Thunder when Mike Miller and Shane Battier got "White Heat Hot" from downtown. During the 2012-2013 NBA season the additions of Rashard Lewis and Ray Allen has increased the Heat's three point percentage to a scorching 39.1%

While the Miami Heat has several flaws mostly in the post/ paint it would take a multi-faceted team in order to dethrone the NBA Champions. List of Eastern Conference playoff teams with the ability to create havoc in the playoffs and strip the Heat of another NBA Finals appearance is slim. Here's a list of playoff teams with the ability to control the post defensively and offensively Indiana Pacers, Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks fit the bill here. Defensively the Heat could struggle against a defensive and aggressive Indiana team Pacers lead the NBA in PPG Allowed 89.6 other notable Eastern Conference playoff teams include Chicago  Bulls 91.6, Brooklyn Nets 94.8, Boston Celtics 96.1 and Atlanta Hawks 96.2. Only three playoff bound teams hold opponents to a worst FG% Indiana Pacers 41.3%, Chicago Bulls 43.4% and Boston Celtics 44.1%.  Once we look at the overall Adjusted FG% which shows the effectiveness of the opponents offense versus the defense only the Pacers 44.5%, Bulls 46.7%, Bucks (8th seed) 48.2%, Celtics 48.2%, Hawks 49.2% are same or better than Miami Heat.  Once again the Heat combats these issues with effective offense and unmatched intangibles in LeBron James and Dwayne Wade.

Eastern Conference playoff teams prove that defense is the call Miami Heat’s offense sets them apart and beyond the rest of the pack. Heat average 103.9 ppg , 49.7 fg% and effective 54.9% fg rate. New York Knicks average 100.1 ppg but the offensive system is only generating a 44.3 fg% and Miami's defense is more effective due to lack of perimeter pressure. Atlanta Hawks DNA proves they have a good offensive system with Jeff Teague at the point and Josh Smith and Al Horford controlling the post generating a 46.3 fg% and Effective/ Adjusted 51.9 fg%. Issue for Hawks terrible home court more Heat fans in Philips Arena than Hawks fans you can actually hear the "Let's Go Heat Chants" drain out the announcer saying "Defense" when Heat have the ball, secondly Josh Smith and Al Horford always look overwhelmed by James and Wade being on the same basketball court. Injuries to Rajon Rondo and Derrick Rose eliminates the Celtics and Bulls, I wonder what the Bulls offense would look like versus the Heat with a healthy Rose in uniform.  Brooklyn Nets offense despite Deron Williams at point guard are terrible 95.2 ppg, 44.1 fg% and 49.1 effective fg%. Brook Lopez and Reggie Evans undoubtedly have the ability to control the post offensive/ defensive but where is Williams and Johnson?

 Indiana Pacers represent the Miami Heat’s greatest defensive threat but lag far behind in all offensive categories 94.0 ppg, 43.4 fg% and 47.6 Adjusted/ Effective fg%. Middle to end of the pack NBA free throw and three point team. Since the All-Star break the Indiana has outpaced their offensive season averages posting 125pts v. Knicks, 114pts v. Pistons, 90pts v. Pistons and 108pts v. Warriors opening up to a 4-0 start after the break. Former All-Star Danny Granger is back from injury and the Pacers seemed posed with all the potential to threaten the Miami Heat if the offensive explosion continues. Most of all the Pacers don't seem fazed by the intangibles LeBron James and Dwayne Wade.

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Greg Oden "The BIG Anemic" Returning to NBA...

Greg Oden the "BIG Anemic" is returning to the NBA. According to news sources around Cleveland Ohio the anemic one is close to a two year deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Akron Beacon Journal reported Oden signing with the Cavaliers after the February 21st trade deadline. Oden has been working out and a third year team option is attached to the deal.

(Sam Forencich/Getty Images)

Cavaliers are currently $4 million under the cap and exploring several different trades to revamp a roster around young NBA superstar Kyrie Irving. Last week Oden's agent Mike Conley Sr. confirmed to the press that Oden had been working out/ meeting with the Cavaliers. While several other teams including the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics have been very interested in signing Oden. The Big Anemic is ready to stay home in his native Ohio and play for the Cavaliers. 

Minus injury concerns Oden and Anderson Varejao could form a great one-two punch in the post with Marreese Speights coming off the bench. If Cavaliers find success between now and the off season of 2014 LeBron James could have a lot to think about before resigning with the Miami Heat. 

Oden's last appearance in a NBA uniform was during the 2009 NBA season. Drafted in 2007 his career has been plagued with multiple severe and serious knee injuries. According to Sports Illustrated " Prior to that round of surgeries, Oden also had left knee surgery in 2009 after fracturing his patella, microfracture surgery on his left knee in 2010 to address a “defect” that occurred during non-contact rehabilitation work, and a microfracture surgery on his right knee in 2007." Since rehabbing Oden has moved back to Columbus and attended Ohio State finishing his degree. 

FYI:

1.) Greg Oden is 25 years old

2.) Agent Mike Conley Sr. is father of Memphis Grizzlies PG Mike Conley

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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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Miami Heat: LeBron James "The King Has Arrived"

     LeBron James finally gets to wear his crown after the Miami Heat defeated the "Young Thunder Cats" OKC Thunder in the 2012 NBA Finals. This calls for a lot of jubilation in Miami and most notably cements LeBron James legacy. The most anticipated and heralded athlete in NBA history has grown from a prince into a KING. To steal a quote from the Great Muhammad Ali "THE KING IS HERE, THE KING IS HERE" LeBron James is definitely a bad man.

     Criticized for not winning in the big moments, criticized for excepting the spot light but not delivering in the moment, chastised for being just a little bit too uncomfortable finding his role in Miami. Welp don't look now but the King has arrived! Short comparison: Michael Jordan had to grow in order to defeat the Bad Boy Pistons before obtaining his legacy and King James had to defeat his immaturity and bad stigma to finally wear the Kings robe. No LeBron James was not the King the last 9 years good player MVP yes but KING no King's wear rings. Now LeBron has his ring, now the LeBron jokes about the 4th quarter is done its over. 

      LeBron James master NBA Finals performance 28.6 pts, 1.6 spg, 7.4 apg, 10.2 rebs, 82.6 ft% and 47.2 fg% will go down as possibly the best game to game NBA Finals performances of all time. LeBron James was consistent in all 5 2012 NBA Finals games while accepting the challenge of guarding one of the youngest and brightest stars OKC Thunder's Kevin Durant. King James 3rd NBA Finals appearance was the charm as the greatest athlete on the planet finally harnessed the demeanor and attitude of a Prince ready to take the throne. 

     So what happened during the 2012 season that allowed LeBron James to take the throne? look no further than the leadership of Dwayne Wade. With nagging injuries hampering Wade during the 2012 NBA Season LeBron had the opportunity to prove that he was the same phenom and NBA MVP that departed the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2010. LeBron took the Miami Heat to another level starring in the same "KING to Throne" role he played in Cleveland. The phenom dominated the basketball court and returned to the paint, his home driving and crashing the boards controlling the paint with aggression. Wade the elder statesmen noticed the impact and decided to take a step back while mentally growing forward. Leaders know when to lead and leaders always allow others around them to grow in order to achieve victory. 

    Look for the dynamic duo LeBron James Batman   King James, Dwayne Wade Robin Flash, Chris Bosh and the Miami Heat to be one of the GREATEST teams ever assembled in NBA history. Great is not just a saying it reflects what you've done. "LeBron James is now a great his done it". Now in 2012 King James has taken his place on the NBA throne and surpassed the hype.

     LeBron James we criticized you because we knew you were more, we criticized you because we believed, we criticized because we realized your greatness before you could mentally accept it and most of all we criticized you because we loved you. Congrats to LeBron James "THE KING IS HERE, THE KING IS HERE" and his definitely a bad man NBA fans take note "The King Has Arrived"...

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James Harden "Game" Distracted by Love Affair...

Trina "Diamond Princess" and James Harden...

The #1 question regarding James Harden is what is going on not with the Beard but with his game? James Harden NBA Sixth Man of the year has been an instrumental part of the young Thunder's success blazing a thunderous trail to the NBA Finals. James Harden averaged 16.8 pts, 3.7 asts, 4.1 rebs, and 49.1% fg per contest on his way to 2012 NBA Sixth Man of the Year award.

During the NBA Playoffs James Harden continued his stellar performance posting 18.3 pts, 4.3 asts, 5.5 rebs, and 50% fg ousting the defending 2011 NBA Finals Champion Dallas Mavericks in a 4 game sweep. Harden then faced Metta World Peace and the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Semifinals. In a hotly contested battle between the Lakers and Thunder Harden posted 16.0 pts, 2.2 asts, 4.6 rebs, and 35.8% fg while dodging elbows and playing against his "new" arch nemesis. Against the Lakers we can look at Harden's field goal percentage 35.8% as a knock but Harden's best performances was yet to come as the Thunder headed into the 2012 Western Conference Finals with the San Antonio Spurs.

Western Conference Finals James Harden sub-plot was well scripted as he faced off versus Sixth Man extraordinaire Manu Ginobli in a battle to prove who was the best NBA Sixth Man. During the Western Conference Finals James Harden was prime averaging 18.5 pts, 3.7 asts, 5.5 rebs, and 49.3% fg. Harden proved once again that he was the new star on the block outshining Manu Ginobli and the San Antonio Spurs winning four straight games and grabbing the momentum in route to the Thunder's first NBA Finals appearance and creating Thunder history.

 During the Spurs series different stories started to    emerge as Lil Wayne complained about how Thunder execs did not welcome his presence at the Western Conference Finals in Oklahoma City. No one put the pieces together at the time but this story started to evolve into a outspoken head scratcher. What was Lil Wayne doing in OKC? "no offense but OKC is not just some random location you go on vacation or to discover the roots of hip hop". Why would Lil Wayne be attending a Thunder series game when his "Daddy" Birdman is a devoted Miami Heat fan?

In May of 2012 a story popped up about Lil Wayne possibly having late night rendezvous with rap artist Trina (James Harden's GF) spotted at a late night Miami nightclub. Shortly after rumors circled underground  that Lil Wayne was in OKC visiting Trina Harden's girlfriend.

 The web of deceit has been sewn the fabric stitched but yet no one wants to bring up the obvious. Yes, playing under the bright lights of the NBA Finals can be a difficult task knowing the world is watching as you perform on the NBA's grandest stage. Yet, this is nothing different its Hardens everyday work right? Harden is not new to the bright lights since his college career at ASU Harden has been in the spotlight his oversized Beard and old man style has never wavered his always been a solid performer.

James Harden is currently averaging 11.7pts , 3.7 asts, 3.3 rebs and 40.7% fg in the NBA Finals versus the Miami Heat. Notice there's a lot of Miami connections going on here as Birdman Jr. continues

Trina and James Harden

 to be a distraction in the mind of James Harden. Trina is also a Miami area artist so now the fix is in. Birdman probably wagered up to $1 million on the Miami Heat winning the 2012 Finals and Lil Wayne knowing the bet is out to distract Harden. The best way to distract Harden is making amends with Trina Lil Wayne's former fling. So if the Miami Heat win Lil Wayne "Birdman Jr." aka Mr. Kiss My Daddy should be crowned NBA Finals MVP. Trina if you really love James Harden put Lil Wayne in check because this is costing Harden an NBA Championship on the world biggest stage the 2012 NBA Finals "after all Lil Wayne only kisses his Daddy"....

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Miami Heat: LeBron James NBA Royalty?

On this day in history May 4th 2009. LeBron James won his first MVP award edging out Los Angeles Lakers' Kobe Bryant (698 points), Miami's Dwyane Wade (680), Orlando's Dwight Howard (328) and New Orleans' Chris Paul (192). With the award LeBron James became the first NBA MVP in Cleveland Cavaliers history. 

During the 2008-2009 NBA season LeBron James averaged (28.4 ppg, second in the NBA), rebounds (7.6 rpg), assists (7.2 apg, fourth), and steals (1.7 spg, eighth). LeBron James career record pace not only set James as the NBA MVP but made him a apart of history becoming the fourth player to lead his team in scoring, rebounding, assists and steals, while also leading his team to 50-plus wins (Larry Bird 1985-86; Grant Hill, 1996-97; Kevin Garnett, 2002-03).  Leading the Cavaliers to an NBA best- franchise best 66-16 season. 

LeBron James 2008-2009 credentials included leading the league in triple-doubles (seven) and became the 12th player in NBA history to record three-consecutive triple-doubles (March 7, 10, 12). In his sixth season, James became the ninth player in NBA history to have at least five consecutive 2,000 point seasons.

Th following season LeBron James won his second consecutive NBA MVP award carrying the Cleveland Cavaliers to a league leading 61-21 record. That season the Cleveland Cavaliers teamed LeBron James with Shaquille O'Neal during the offseason. LeBron's 2009-2010 NBA season produced one of the greatest player statistics in NBA history. LeBron averaged 29.7 pts, 7.3 rebs, 8.6 ast, 1.6 stls and 1.0 blks during the 82 games schedule.

Fast forward to the 2011-2012 NBA season and LeBron James is once again playing the best basketball in the NBA. James now a member of the Miami Heat has elevated his game playing next to Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh in "South Beach" Miami. The Miami Heat ended the regular season with a 46-20 regular season record. LeBron James 2011-2012 has clearly defined his role in South Beach as "Batman" averaging 27 pts, 7.86 rebs, 6.23 ast, and 1.89 stls.

So LeBron was right his going to win not 1, not 2 but at least 3 NBA MVP trophies. With his 3rd MVP trophy LeBron James will join the elite in NBA "first class" only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bill Russell, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Wilt Chamberlain, Larry Bird and Moses Malone as players who have accomplished the feat of 3x MVP. The only item missing from the resume and trophy case of the former 2003-2004 NBA Rookie of the Year is an NBA Finals Larry O'Brien Championship trophy. Regardless of this fact LeBron James is the best NBA player in the Association.  

In my opinion LeBron James is 8 Championship trophies away from being the Greatest player in NBA history. Yes, 8 is a lot but Michael Jordan was 6-0 in Finals competition and James has to make up for the 0-2 Finals record he posses. Also the great Bill Russell won 11 NBA Finals so LeBron James the most gifted athlete in NBA history has to add the missing piece to his trophy case 8x. Is it possible?

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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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Miami Heat: LeBron James no substance just talent!

LeBron James arguably the most talented athlete the NBA has ever offered. LeBron's ability to jump, shoot, run, stop and pop, soar for a dunk and block a shot is unreal. A player of LeBron's natural talent comes around once every 20 years. Favorable comparisons with the likes of Oscar Robinson, and Magic Johnson is once in a lifetime event.

The truth about LeBron is the sports world loves him, he is the NBA's Golden Son born to fly and win championships but something is missing. Lebron's actions leave many fans and sports media supporters feeling disappointed. Disappointed because we appreciate King James, we have mass aberration for the Kings talents. The problem is our expectations of King Jame was so high that many of us feel disappointed when a player of his talents fails to win a Championship, losing twice in the NBA Finals, and failing to hit key game winning shots.

Watching the 2012 NBA All Star in Orlando Florida, I now believe the fans and media reporters believe more in LeBron than King James believes in himself. (Exhibit A) NBA fans believed LeBron talents could take the Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA Finals and LeBron achieved that goal because he believed. NBA fans and journalist believed in 2011 that LeBron could have carried the Cavaliers to multiple NBA titles but unfortunately LeBron opted out of Cleveland signing a new contract with the Miami Heat because he stopped believing. Media outlets ESPN, NBA.com and others around the world believed last year before the NBA Finals that LeBron was better than Dirk Nowitzki.but somewhere during the NBA Finals LeBron failed to believe.

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We thought LeBron wanted to be a leader, we believed LeBron was "Batman" looking for his own "Robin" to compliment him on the court. We were wrong LeBron instead aired "The Decision" choosing to become "Robin" to Dwayne Wade's "Batman". When LeBron arrived in Miami fans argued over who should take the last shot for the Miami Heat but LeBron failed in his attempts choosing not to believe.

Recently during the 2012 NBA All Star game Kobe Bryant believed LeBron was ready to give us a
 "mano a mano" moment, a one on one classic between LeBron and Kobe for an All Star game winner. Instead LeBron opted out of creating the moment throwing an errant pass, problem? (yeah you guessed it) LeBron chose not to believe. After the play the world watched Kobe snicker brushing his broken nose asking LeBron " what are you doing?" Even Kobe believed in LeBron more than LeBron believed in himself. When Kobe was whispering those words to LeBron while Carmelo and Wade watched it confirmed to us before our eyes that LeBron is missing that "it' factor". Maybe it's mental, maybe LeBron should talk to Dr. Phil.